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Beachfront Billionaires #2
Married at the Marina: A contemporary Christian romance
I never figured that I’d be someone who fell for a damsel in distress.
I see my share of hurting and wounded people in my job at the island health clinic. Wanting to help and heal is why I went into medicine.
So why is Teresa different?
No idea.
All I know, is that she’s come into my clinic twice now with injuries that can’t possibly have been accidental, no matter what she said at the time.
I want to protect her.
I’ll do whatever it takes.
Even if what she needs most is a marriage of convenience.
I see my share of hurting and wounded people in my job at the island health clinic. Wanting to help and heal is why I went into medicine.
So why is Teresa different?
No idea.
All I know, is that she’s come into my clinic twice now with injuries that can’t possibly have been accidental, no matter what she said at the time.
I want to protect her.
I’ll do whatever it takes.
Even if what she needs most is a marriage of convenience.
297 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 22, 2025
About the author
Elizabeth Maddrey
72 books263 followersUSA Today bestselling author Elizabeth Maddrey is a semi-reformed computer geek and homeschooling mother of two who lives in the suburbs of Washington D.C. When she isn’t writing, Elizabeth is a voracious consumer of books. She loves to write about Christians who struggle through their lives, dealing with sin and receiving God’s grace on their way to their own romantic happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
January 2, 2026
I love all of Elizabeth Maddrey’s “billionaire” books and series. They are so fun and full of wonderful characters.
I can’t imagine being a billionaire or coming into all that much money, but these guys in this series are honest, sincere, and genuinely don't want to flaunt their money around. This family is big, but they love each other. It’s so different from Teresa’s family. A family where money is everything, and they will do anything to get it, even hurt those in the family. Teresa doesn’t really know what true love is, and Christian wants to protect and show her that she is safe with him. So, he does the only thing to show her he cares, really, it’s the only way to help her!
Now they're learning the plan didn't go the way they thought it would.
It’s also a story about tight family relationships and connections. I loved how the other members of this big family are woven throughout this book. Now I can’t wait for their stories to come out.
Elizabeth Maddrey is a gifted and skilled author, and her books always make me smile. She presents spiritual lessons gently and naturally. Not in a pushy or fake way. She knows how to bring her characters to life and make them relatable to the readers.
I highly recommend this book!
I received this book from the publisher, which did not influence my review in any way; all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
I can’t imagine being a billionaire or coming into all that much money, but these guys in this series are honest, sincere, and genuinely don't want to flaunt their money around. This family is big, but they love each other. It’s so different from Teresa’s family. A family where money is everything, and they will do anything to get it, even hurt those in the family. Teresa doesn’t really know what true love is, and Christian wants to protect and show her that she is safe with him. So, he does the only thing to show her he cares, really, it’s the only way to help her!
Now they're learning the plan didn't go the way they thought it would.
It’s also a story about tight family relationships and connections. I loved how the other members of this big family are woven throughout this book. Now I can’t wait for their stories to come out.
Elizabeth Maddrey is a gifted and skilled author, and her books always make me smile. She presents spiritual lessons gently and naturally. Not in a pushy or fake way. She knows how to bring her characters to life and make them relatable to the readers.
I highly recommend this book!
I received this book from the publisher, which did not influence my review in any way; all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
December 25, 2025
Somehow, Elizabeth Maddrey always takes an ordinary trope and turns it into a clean yet interesting romance!
April 16, 2026
MOC is my favorite trope and I loved book 1 in this series, so I was super excited to read this one.
It is difficult to come up with a unique reason for a MOC especially in a contemporary setting, but Maddrey did just that! Christian feels a strong need to protect Teresa at any cost... even if that means marrying her.
I love how Christian's family accepted Teresa and showed her what a healthy, loving, supportive family looks like.
Looking forward to reading the next book in this series!
It is difficult to come up with a unique reason for a MOC especially in a contemporary setting, but Maddrey did just that! Christian feels a strong need to protect Teresa at any cost... even if that means marrying her.
I love how Christian's family accepted Teresa and showed her what a healthy, loving, supportive family looks like.
Looking forward to reading the next book in this series!
January 8, 2026
Christian found Teresa intriguing from the first time she came to him as a patient, and his suspicion that she's not safe at home adds a desire to help. But he never expected to end up in an on-paper-only marriage with a woman he's attracted to as a result. Teresa knows her family is only interested in her for what she can do for them, but when failed dreams force her back home, she hopes to make it to her birthday, when she can claim her trust. As it becomes clear that neither her father nor her intended fiance will think twice about hurting her to gain their ends, escape is the only option - she just never intended that escape to be a loveless temporary marriage - let alone to a man she's attracted to. Can they turn fake into forever?
If (like me) you're not a fan of billionaire romances, I'd still encourage you to give this series a go, because money doesn't really come into it (except in terms of her family, I guess - but Christian doesn't 'act' rich). If you are a fan, I think you'll still enjoy it! I loved Christian's care for Teresa and his eagerness to help - but also that he's willing to step back when she clearly wants to be left to do her own thing. Teresa comes from a pretty horrible background and it was great to watch her really coming to terms with the past and the fact that she really can and should be loved as a person. It was good to see more of the family after getting to know them in book 1 (though this is a complete standalone story), and I look forward to seeing more of them in the next book!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
If (like me) you're not a fan of billionaire romances, I'd still encourage you to give this series a go, because money doesn't really come into it (except in terms of her family, I guess - but Christian doesn't 'act' rich). If you are a fan, I think you'll still enjoy it! I loved Christian's care for Teresa and his eagerness to help - but also that he's willing to step back when she clearly wants to be left to do her own thing. Teresa comes from a pretty horrible background and it was great to watch her really coming to terms with the past and the fact that she really can and should be loved as a person. It was good to see more of the family after getting to know them in book 1 (though this is a complete standalone story), and I look forward to seeing more of them in the next book!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
December 28, 2025
I Am Really Enjoying the Series
I like the series so far. I especially liked the grandpa in the book. The advice he gave was priceless. As a Christian, it is good to read a well-written book with values.
The book shows two families, both with problems. One family navigates the problems within the context of love, forgiveness, and determination to work things out, to do better when wrong, and to be faithful to each other. The other is just unbelievably hateful and abusive.
It is hard for me to understand why people would put up with abuse, but the book does a fair job of being sympathetic yet holding ALL the characters accountable, abusers, abused, and helpers alike. Patrons will have to read the book to understand what I mean.
The book tells several characters’ stories. I thought the female lead was a little too dense at times which prolonged the story a little beyond my patience. Maybe the story could have been told in fewer pages, not sure.
I would like to read more about the rest of the family. The way they interact is entertaining. They are all interesting characters. I like when the characters banter and humor is injected into the story. This is fiction. It doesn’t have to be serious all the time. There are some funny parts making the book more enjoyable.
When is the next book? :)
I like the series so far. I especially liked the grandpa in the book. The advice he gave was priceless. As a Christian, it is good to read a well-written book with values.
The book shows two families, both with problems. One family navigates the problems within the context of love, forgiveness, and determination to work things out, to do better when wrong, and to be faithful to each other. The other is just unbelievably hateful and abusive.
It is hard for me to understand why people would put up with abuse, but the book does a fair job of being sympathetic yet holding ALL the characters accountable, abusers, abused, and helpers alike. Patrons will have to read the book to understand what I mean.
The book tells several characters’ stories. I thought the female lead was a little too dense at times which prolonged the story a little beyond my patience. Maybe the story could have been told in fewer pages, not sure.
I would like to read more about the rest of the family. The way they interact is entertaining. They are all interesting characters. I like when the characters banter and humor is injected into the story. This is fiction. It doesn’t have to be serious all the time. There are some funny parts making the book more enjoyable.
When is the next book? :)
January 24, 2026
Another sweet romance from Elizabeth! Marriage of convenience is my favorite trope, so I knew this would be my kind of book. As always, the family and community surrounding the characters was a highlight and one of my favorite parts of the story.
Teresa is trapped in an arranged engagement to an abusive man so her father can secure a business deal. When things become more dangerous, Christian, the town’s nurse practitioner, offers her a marriage of convenience for protection and freedom. What starts as a temporary plan quickly turns complicated when family gets involved and the marriage becomes very real.
I did enjoy this, but I expected the marriage of convenience storyline to take center stage sooner, and I wanted a bit more emotional buildup between Teresa and Christian. Some of the big moments felt rushed, and I would’ve loved to see more of their love develop.
Still, it was a cozy, sweet read, and I’m fully invested in this family. I’m excited for Evan’s story next and curious what’s coming for Travis.
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
Teresa is trapped in an arranged engagement to an abusive man so her father can secure a business deal. When things become more dangerous, Christian, the town’s nurse practitioner, offers her a marriage of convenience for protection and freedom. What starts as a temporary plan quickly turns complicated when family gets involved and the marriage becomes very real.
I did enjoy this, but I expected the marriage of convenience storyline to take center stage sooner, and I wanted a bit more emotional buildup between Teresa and Christian. Some of the big moments felt rushed, and I would’ve loved to see more of their love develop.
Still, it was a cozy, sweet read, and I’m fully invested in this family. I’m excited for Evan’s story next and curious what’s coming for Travis.
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
December 25, 2025
LOVED this modern day marriage of convenience!!! Besides it being my all-time favorite trope, this book is sooooooooooooooo good!! Christian and Teresa meet around Easter, and now she's back as a patient again at the clinic he works at. This time, he doesn't want to let her get away, but there's no way he can keep her. However, they run into each other again, and Christian knows he has to help her. I don't want to give anything away, so I'll just say that I love how God works!! And, Gramps almost steals the show!!! Such a good book, and I'm looking forward to the next in the series!! To get the best experience, you need to read the books in order!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
December 24, 2025
Married at the Marina is an outstanding, Christian romance. I love a series, but the reader will not be lost by not reading book one. This well written book is about Christian and Teresa who entered a marriage of convenience without consulting his family or God about the decision. Christian's heart was in the right place since he desperately wanted to help Teresa. I love how his big family rallies around the couple. I love that Teresa got to witness what family should look like. As always, Ms. Maddrey brings everything to a successful conclusion but not before the couple travels a rocky road! I could not put the book down. Now I have to wait for Evan's story.
December 27, 2025
‘Married at the Marina’ was heartfelt. The touching plot involved adversity, deplorable family dynamics, coping with adversity, another family well-grounded in spirituality and empathy, anguish, having an interesting idea as to moving on, getting the family involved, having the final showdown with the folks, and falling in love. Moreover, Teresa and Christian, the protagonists, kept plugging away even when it seemed hopeless. Also, I liked how the author drew the reader in with the sentimental storyline. Overall, I liked the unfeigned narrative. I received a copy for free and am giving my honest review voluntarily.
December 23, 2025
This is the second book in Maddrey’s series, Beachfront Billionaires, and features another Thomas brother, Christian. He’s a nurse practitioner on Loring Island, and wants to help his patients…
It is helpful if you read book 1 first (Second Chance at the Seaside) so that you know the various members of the main families, as well as the setting.
I really enjoyed the banter between the families, the plot twists, and the good Biblical insights various characters share. I look forward to the next book!
It is helpful if you read book 1 first (Second Chance at the Seaside) so that you know the various members of the main families, as well as the setting.
I really enjoyed the banter between the families, the plot twists, and the good Biblical insights various characters share. I look forward to the next book!
December 25, 2025
Couldn't put it down!
After reading the first book in this series, I couldn't wait for Christian's book. And I wasn't disappointed. I loved everything about this story, except for Teresa's parents. Read it and you'll know why. Christian's protective, faithful, and totally attracted to Teresa. She ends up in a tight spot, and I love how Christian and his family are there for her. I won't give away the plot, but this faith-filled romance is so good. I loved it and can't wait for Evan's book next!
After reading the first book in this series, I couldn't wait for Christian's book. And I wasn't disappointed. I loved everything about this story, except for Teresa's parents. Read it and you'll know why. Christian's protective, faithful, and totally attracted to Teresa. She ends up in a tight spot, and I love how Christian and his family are there for her. I won't give away the plot, but this faith-filled romance is so good. I loved it and can't wait for Evan's book next!
December 26, 2025
Married at the Marina
Christian and Teresa have a wonderfully sweet story. Christian is the local Nurse Practitioner who deals with minor health problems that arise on island at the local clinic. He isn’t in the habit of personally coming to the rescue of women who need protection but Teresa seems to be different. Teresa keeps dealing with problems that cannot be accidental and does not want to acknowledge the need for protection. But Christian will do anything he can to protect her. I highly recommend you read their story!
Christian and Teresa have a wonderfully sweet story. Christian is the local Nurse Practitioner who deals with minor health problems that arise on island at the local clinic. He isn’t in the habit of personally coming to the rescue of women who need protection but Teresa seems to be different. Teresa keeps dealing with problems that cannot be accidental and does not want to acknowledge the need for protection. But Christian will do anything he can to protect her. I highly recommend you read their story!
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December 20, 2025This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given.
Christian's protective nature draws him to Teresa, who obviously needs help. Without praying about it and without talking with trusted family members, they enter a marriage of convenience. That could've gone better.
I love this extended family! I love that they hold each other to high standards but are not judgmental and that they can disagree but still band together.
I really liked this story.
Christian's protective nature draws him to Teresa, who obviously needs help. Without praying about it and without talking with trusted family members, they enter a marriage of convenience. That could've gone better.
I love this extended family! I love that they hold each other to high standards but are not judgmental and that they can disagree but still band together.
I really liked this story.
December 24, 2025
Best Heroine Name Ever!
It's not often the female main character has the same name as I do, but it sure was fun reading about her.
The author took a realistic look at domestic abuse, the denial, the attempts to deny the reality, and the inconceivable reality that the perpetrator really didn't see anything wrong in his actions.
Enter the knight in shining armor. A marriage of convenience and a family that rallies round them.
It's not often the female main character has the same name as I do, but it sure was fun reading about her.
The author took a realistic look at domestic abuse, the denial, the attempts to deny the reality, and the inconceivable reality that the perpetrator really didn't see anything wrong in his actions.
Enter the knight in shining armor. A marriage of convenience and a family that rallies round them.
December 28, 2025
Such a wonderful contemporary romance read. Although Christian and Teresa enter into a sudden marriage of convenience without praying or consulting God and Christian's family beforehand, I love how Christian's family is supportive and rallies around the couple. It allows Teresa to see what a loving family is like. Married at the Marina has a big supportive family, family dynamics, a marriage of convenience, and faith elements. I'm looking forward to Evan's story.
January 3, 2026
In this book you’ll read about parents who will abuse their child to get what they want financially. Christian is an amazing person who is always willing to help others. Teresa is being abused by her family and when she goes into Christian’s clinic her life will never be the same. The way Christian protects Teresa is truly amazing. The author will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what happens next.
March 4, 2026
Commitment
Teresa was in an unsafe family, with two trips to the medical clinic to prove it. Christopher was a protector and wanted her safe. I really liked how the author dealt with the fake marriage trope, as marriage is a covenant with God and not to be entered into lightly - certainly not with the intention of annulment down the track. Even though money was involved the main motivation was safety.
Teresa was in an unsafe family, with two trips to the medical clinic to prove it. Christopher was a protector and wanted her safe. I really liked how the author dealt with the fake marriage trope, as marriage is a covenant with God and not to be entered into lightly - certainly not with the intention of annulment down the track. Even though money was involved the main motivation was safety.
December 21, 2025
Married at the Marina is a well crafted, page turning Contemporary Christian romance. This retiree enjoyed the multi generational story, the summer setting, the unexpected plot twists.
Grandpa's marriage advice is spot on - LOVE is a Choice. Especially for a long, lasting marriage.
Received ARC and these are my thoughts.
Grandpa's marriage advice is spot on - LOVE is a Choice. Especially for a long, lasting marriage.
Received ARC and these are my thoughts.
December 26, 2025
solid
I really enjoyed this book. If you are a fan of hallmark style books, this is one for you. It does deal with some heavy topics such as abuse, but in a way I would let my 13 year old daughter read. This was a solid addition to the series.
I really enjoyed this book. If you are a fan of hallmark style books, this is one for you. It does deal with some heavy topics such as abuse, but in a way I would let my 13 year old daughter read. This was a solid addition to the series.
January 4, 2026
Love these characters
I love this series. The entire family is lovable, these stories make me laugh and cry, and I'm ready for the next one!
I love this series. The entire family is lovable, these stories make me laugh and cry, and I'm ready for the next one!
January 18, 2026
Another nice story from Elizabeth Maddrey. She always puts Christ in prominent.
March 4, 2026
I'm a sucker for marriage of convenience stories so I was really excited to dive into this one. Christian is a doctor at an island health clinic who notices Teresa coming in with injuries that clearly aren't accidental. He wants to protect her and offers a marriage of convenience as a solution. What I wasn't quite prepared for was how the book tackled the heavier topic of abuse. Elizabeth Maddrey handled it well and didn't shy away from the difficult realities of abusive relationships. It was eye-opening to see what victims go through and how hard it can be to escape that situation.
Christian is very sweet and genuinely wants to help Teresa, which I appreciated. But I have to be honest that I was a little concerned about his hero complex. He jumped into the marriage decision really quickly, and while his heart was in the right place, it felt a bit rushed given the serious circumstances. I kept wondering if he was trying to save her more than truly getting to know her as a person. That said, I was glad to see them grow as a couple throughout the story rather than having instant romance solve everything.
The marriage of convenience trope worked well here because it gave Teresa the safety she desperately needed while allowing both characters time to develop real feelings. Watching them navigate their unconventional situation and build genuine trust was the best part of the story. This isn't your typical lighthearted romance, but it's a thoughtful look at how love can bloom even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
4.5 stars
Christian is very sweet and genuinely wants to help Teresa, which I appreciated. But I have to be honest that I was a little concerned about his hero complex. He jumped into the marriage decision really quickly, and while his heart was in the right place, it felt a bit rushed given the serious circumstances. I kept wondering if he was trying to save her more than truly getting to know her as a person. That said, I was glad to see them grow as a couple throughout the story rather than having instant romance solve everything.
The marriage of convenience trope worked well here because it gave Teresa the safety she desperately needed while allowing both characters time to develop real feelings. Watching them navigate their unconventional situation and build genuine trust was the best part of the story. This isn't your typical lighthearted romance, but it's a thoughtful look at how love can bloom even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
4.5 stars
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews