Chasing the Clouds Away

by Debbie Macomber

From #1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber comes an uplifting story of an unforgettable chance encounter between a successful yet jaded businessman, and a woman who sees—but also expects—the best in everyone, sparking an unlikely romance that challenges their assumptions about generosity, trust, and the gifts of unforeseen love.

Maisy Gallaher has always dreamt of becoming a nurse, a beacon of hope and healing for those in need. But when her father passed away, she selflessly set aside her aspirations to help her family. Despite knowing it was the right thing to do, she can’t help but wish for the path not taken.

Chase Furst, on the other hand, is primarily focused on his own life and his work as a hardened bank executive and heir to a financial empire. His childhood was marred by his mother’s struggle with addiction, leaving him jaded and emotionally distant.

Then he meets Maisy, a beautiful woman full of optimism and kindness who can see past his defenses. To his surprise and annoyance, Maisy offers to help Chase in a time of need, despite just meeting him. The two butt heads, especially when Maisy declines his offer of payment. Instead, she asks him to pay it forward to someone else—not with money or a quick fix, but through an act of true selflessness. Chase doesn’t know where to begin.

Despite his skepticism, Chase is determined to rise to this challenge. And doing good for others leads Chase back to Maisy, who begins to break down his walls, even as she resists risking her own gentle heart. But the more time they spend together, the more they realize how much they have to learn from each other . . . and how much love could make a difference in their future.

Genres: Romance

320 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication April 28, 2026

About the author

Debbie Macomber is a #1 New York Times bestselling author and one of today’s most popular writers with more than 200 million copies of her books in print worldwide. In her novels, Macomber brings to life compelling relationships that embrace family and enduring friendships, uplifting her readers with stories of connection and hope. Macomber’s novels have spent over 1,000 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Fifteen of these novels hit the number one spot.

In 2023, Macomber’s all-new hardcover publication includes Must Love Flowers (July). In addition to fiction, Macomber has also published three bestselling cookbooks, three adult coloring books, numerous inspirational and nonfiction works, and two acclaimed children’s books.

Celebrated as “the official storyteller of Christmas”, Macomber’s annual Christmas books are beloved and six have been crafted into original Hallmark Channel movies. Macomber is also the author of the bestselling Cedar Cove Series which the Hallmark Channel chose as the basis for its first dramatic scripted television series. Debuting in 2013, Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove was a ratings favorite for three seasons.

She serves on the Guideposts National Advisory Cabinet, is a YFC National Ambassador, and is World Vision’s international spokesperson for their Knit for Kids charity initiative. A devoted grandmother, Debbie and Wayne live in Port Orchard, Washington, the town which inspired the Cedar Cove series.

Reviews

[Sheila · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free copy of, Chasing the Clouds Away, by Debbie Macomber, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. i thought this was a good read, though Chase is way too good to be true. I really like Patrick.

[Raquel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book. I really enjoyed it. Chase is rich and kinda arrogant. Maisey meets him at the airport when he’s being extremely rude to her friend and was about to get her friend fired. She then ends up on the same plane seated by him. When they land Chase’s rental car was canceled due to their flight being late. Maisey being who she is offered him a ride. He expected to pay her and be on with it but Maisey wouldn’t take anything from him. She just told him to pay it forward. He knew she didn’t just mean writing a check to a charity. He started talking with her trying to come up with something he wanted to do to pay it forward. Even after he did and told her they kept talking and he kept doing things for people. He really changed how he was because of her. He kept trying to help her out but she (and her family) were very proud and wouldn’t take anything from him.
This is a very family oriented book where both main characters grew a lot.

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

A gentle, uplifting read perfect for a quiet afternoon

Debbie Macomber has always had a gift for crafting stories that feel like a warm blanket, and Chasing the Clouds Away is no exception. This novel offers a cozy escape into a world of second chances, family bonds, and the quiet beauty of everyday life.

The characters are relatable and endearing, each carrying their own burdens but finding strength in connection. Macomber’s trademark warmth shines through in the way she writes relationships—whether romantic, familial, or friendships—with tenderness and authenticity. The pacing is steady, never rushed, and while it didn’t glue me to the pages in the way a high-stakes thriller might, it was consistently enjoyable and comforting.

What makes this book special is its heart. It’s the kind of story that reminds you to slow down, savor small joys, and believe in the healing power of love and community. Macomber’s writing is simply delightful, making it easy to immerse oneself in the narrative without effort.

Chasing the Clouds Away may not be the most dramatic or page-turning entry in Macomber’s catalog, but it’s exactly the kind of book you reach for when you want something cozy, uplifting, and reassuring. A solid four stars for a heartwarming read that leaves you with a smile.

Thank you to Ballantine | Ballantine Books for this ARC copy of Chasing the Clouds Away.

[☆Laura☆ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5



Cuando Chase Furst conoce a Maisy Gallagher en el aeropuerto, ninguno imagina que ese breve encuentro cambiará su vida. Él es un hombre de negocios frío, arrogante y acostumbrado a tener el control; ella, una mujer sencilla que cree en la bondad y en los pequeños actos de amor. Lo que empieza como un malentendido y un viaje en avión lleno de tensión se convierte en un inesperado punto de inflexión para ambos.

Mientras Chase viaja a Seattle para encargarse del funeral de una madre a la que no ha visto en años, Maisy le ofrece algo que no puede comprar: empatía, comprensión y una lección sobre lo que realmente importa. A través de su amabilidad, Chase comenzará a cuestionar la vida que lleva y el vacío que oculta tras su éxito.


___


Es una lectura rápida.

La actitud de Maisy al final me canso.


Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.

[M.k. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wavered between 3 and 4 stars for this lovely read and landed on 4 due to the last part of the book. This book is about family relationships and how they shape and mold us throughout our lives. I feel parts of the book were a bit improbable and the writing, usually so wonderful in the Author's books, a bit stiff in certain parts. But the family dynamics - both good and bad - made this book a very nice read. I love strong female characters and this book has several - and a most delightful youngster who sometimes stole the show. I will always read Debbie Macomber books as she writes stories that become ingrained and stay with you for a long while. Many thanks to the Author, publisher, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Sheri Fields · Rating 1 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book although it was not my cup of tea, I appreciate the chance. I normally enjoy Debbie's books but this was not the book for me in no shape or fashion. I read the entire book so I could do a review and it was a waste of my time but it is what it is. I'm not a fan of Christian fiction and felt it was more this genre, nothing wrong with it, just not what I read. I'm sure some other readers will love this book I just felt the characters were not what I was use to, I know the book was promoting second chances and passing a good deed on to the next person but it was lacking. As always read the book if you think it might be of interest to you, this just wasn't my cup of tea...

[Helen Wu ✨ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Chasing the Clouds Away — a quick, breezy read that begins with a familiar grumpy-sunshine setup. The chemistry sparks fast—perhaps too fast—and the male lead’s sudden shift in attitude felt a bit abrupt for my taste. It’s an easy, comforting story that leans heavily on classic romance beats, so while it didn’t surprise me, I can see many readers still enjoying its warmth and simplicity. Personally, I just wished for a touch more depth beneath the charm.

Thank you NetGalley and Ballantine for the ARC!

[Sue Schiel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chasing the Clouds Away — a very quick read that never quite found its footing. The storyline and character choices felt forced at times, making it hard to fully believe in their connection or motivations. While the setup had potential, the pacing moved so fast that there wasn’t enough depth or emotional build-up to keep me invested. It’s a light, easy read for those who want something simple and fast-paced, but for me, it lacked the layers and authenticity that make a story linger after the last page.

[Bookworman · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you, NetGalley and Random House for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Meh. I usually really love Debbie Macomber's stories but this one just didn't do it for me. There were moments that I enjoyed but overall I felt impatient with the two MCs especially Maisy who was SO stubborn. I did love Maisy's family especially Patrick who was a real cutie. I loved the family's faith and perseverance under very challenging life situations but... but... but...

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading this book. I loved how it talked a lot about family trials and values. This is why I love reading books by Debbie Macomber. Her books are always so uplifting. I look forward to reading her next one.I'm grateful that netgalley and the publishers, let me read this in exchange for an honest review.

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

As always, Debbie Macomber provides a story that is sweet, cozy, and makes you feel like you're home. I adore all of her stories as they bring comfort on the darker days. This book did not disappoint.

[Barbara Lack · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Debbie Macomber books. It’s a heartfelt book. I could feel the connection between Chase and Maisy coming off the pages. It’s a sweet romance. I enjoyed the grumpy/sunshine trope. Patrick was so cute in the story. I highly recommend this book.

[Tonya · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5