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, Contemporary 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.

[Melissa Widener · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chasing the Clouds Away by Debbie Macomber
4.3⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 0.2/5
Cursing: none
Format/Source: ebook from NetGalley and
Genres/Tropes: romance, healing, he falls first
Audience: NA
Setting: Chicago; Seattle
Quotes:
Characters: Maisy, Chase, Astrid, Sean, Patrick, Sophie, Eileen, Fred, Simon
👍 short chapters, multi POV, healing, clean, no cursing, pay it forward, faith
👎 misunderstandings

Description:
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.

I thoroughly enjoyed this novel especially the pay it forward, healing, faith tropes. I would recommend it to anyone who likes refreshing romances.
#bookstagram #booklovers #romancebooks

[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.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Ballantine Books and NetGalley for the eARC for my review.

Debbie Macomber had done it again with this opposites attract novel of Maisy Gallagher and Chase Furst. Maisy is a young woman who has to put her dreams of becoming a nurse aside to help her family after her father dies while Chase is a wealthy son of a bank owner who cross paths in an airport both going to Seattle. Maisy is returning from Chicago after visiting a friend and Chase is going to Seattle to make plans for his estranged mother's funeral. When Chase has a problem with his car service, Maisy offers him a ride to his appointment at the funeral home. Chase accepts and offers to pay her, but Maisy wants him to pay it forward. At first, Chase is confused on how to do this, but eventually figures out how to do little acts of kindness. This begins the journey of Maisy and Chase as they discover parts of themselves, they didn't know were there.

If you like romance, this books for you.

[Beth Hunsberger · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy of this book.

This is a light and fast read that is a feel-good story. Maisy Gallagher is from a family that has always had to work hard to make ends meet, and has had to make sacrifices for the sake of her family's well-being. While waiting for a flight home, she encounters Chase Furst who is a bank executive and heir to one of the largest bank operations. His life has been impacted his mother's addiction and ultimate abandonment when he was young. His short temper is on display to Maisy as they wait for their delayed flight. Maisy extends kindness to Chase by giving him a ride upon their arrival, and their connection gains some speed from there, despite their distinct lifestyle differences.
The writing in this book felt more surface-level than other books by Macomber.

[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...

[Liz Sergent · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for Netgalley and the publisher the opportunity to read and review this book. All thoughts are my own. First and foremost, you can't go wrong with a Debbie Macomber book, it is like a comfy blanket wrapped around the reader with all the good feels.
Maisy is at the airport when Chase who is in a rush to catch a flight to Seattle to settle his estranged Mom's estate. Chase is not so nice to airport convivence store employee who happens to be Maisy's friend. You can already see this Chase is all business and not a whole lot of emotions....Maisy is all kind and family first and he can't seem to forget her even after he returns home to his heir to the family bank. Really loved Maisy's family. I could totally see this as a Hallmark movie.

[Angela Owen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A chance meeting at an airport for Maisy and Chase both of their lives upside down. They couldn’t be more different but they are perfect for each other.

The characters in this book are so well described I really felt like I knew them. It was lovely to read about Maisy’s family and how they all pulled together. Whereas Chase and his dad’s relationship was completely different.

It had me hooked from the first page and I was totally invested in both Maisy and Chases lives.

A brilliant 5 star read that shows the true meaning of family, friendship and love and had me in tears for the last few chapters.

Thanks to NetGalley, Debbie Macomber and Brown Book Group UK for an advance copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you're a fan of Hallmark or Lifetime movies, Debbie Macomber's #ChasingtheCloudsAway will provide a meet-cute where Chase's stormy disposition is tempered by Maisy's sunny outlook. While Chase was born with privilege, he missed out in having a close-knit family and can't believe Maisy helps him without expecting payment.

Maisy challenges Chase to pay her kindness forward and after Chase completes his first good deed, he chases that feeling. Will an unexpected encounter change their lives or is this a momentary clearing?

Thank you to #NetGalley and the publisher for the early edition in exchange for an honest review. I enjoyed Macomber's thoughtful prose teaching readers about what's important in life.

[GiGi Carothers · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a fan of Debbbie Macomber books, I was anxious to read her latest bookk Chasing the Clouds Away. Her novels are always so heart warming. Maisy gives up her dream so she can help her family after her fatherj's death. She works at the family jewelry store that has been in the family for generations. She meets Chase, an arrogant banker, whose life changes after meeting Maisy. He falls in love with her and starts to do good things for strangers. Maisy's family hits deep troubles and Chaise wants to solve their problems but Maisy and her family are proud people who don't want charity. Read this novel to find out if Chaise and Maisy solve their problems and if there is a happy llife together.Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to read this book prior to its publication.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story from beginning to end, although my first impression of Chase was not a good one.
This could be a Hallmark movies, filled with really sweet romance, family, a special treats.
A read really shows you what is important, does money buy happiness? Seeing other people, for who they are and not a inconveniences, I loved how the story is all meshed together. We all jump to conclusions, and then deal with the ramifications, and that happens here, but will this new relationship survive?
I loved the epilogue at the end, a gift!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Ballantine Books, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Tara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I felt all of their emotions; the happiness, the loss, the heartache, the vulnerability, the fear and excitement, the longing and their love for each other. An outstanding, page turner! I loved how the characters weren't perfect and had to overcome some challenges in the story. I couldn’t put this book down. Be prepared to have your heart strings pulled and even have a tear or two in your eyes. There is something special about Debbie Macomber’s writing. You can depend upon it to warm your soul. She shows what she does best: crafting stories with heroes and heroines that we can trust to get us to that happy ending with a little bit of strife, but a whole lot of loving.

[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.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another good read from Ms. Macomber.

Maisy Gallagher was on track to becoming a nurse, that is until her father's death. Then Maisy's goes to work in her family's failing jewelry store. By chance on an airplane flight, Maisy sits next to Chase Furst, heir to a financial empire. Maisy does Chase a favor and instead of payment asks Chase to pay-it-forward. Chase struggles with this at first because this is not something Chase is used to doing but eventually gets the hang of it. Chase contacts Maisy to tell her how he paid-it-forward and a relationship develops even though Chase is in Chicago and Maisy in Seattle. Pick this fun read up in April 2026 to read about the relationship and the obstacles it must overcome to survive.

[Dana Sessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a heartwarming story! Debbie Macomber has brought us another heartfelt story that bring comfort.  It is so much more than Maisey and Chase finding one another, it is about family, lost ones and finding peace and beauty in everyday life. Sometimes we get caught up in everything going and we don't take the opportunity to slow down to see what is right in front of us.  This book did just that. Debbie Macomber has made magic again and showed us what the power of love and prayer can accomplish.  Highly recommend it!

[Sheila Penwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this story of Maisy and Chase. Maisey met Chase at the Chicago airport where he treated her friend rudely, When boarding the plan she got upgraded to first class and she sat by Chase. They talked and she sensed something was bothering him. When they landed in Seattle, because of the delays his car was canceled. Maisey offered him a ride to the funeral home to make arrangements for his Mom. He wanted to pay her but she said to pay it forward. Do they get together? See how these opposites attract.

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was nice to see a new Debbie book, that was y Christmas out.

This was a typical good Debbie book, just what I needed to rake my mind off the cold weather outside. This was a wonderful in front of a fire read.

Two people that you love almost from the get go, face the typical problems in order to have a relationship. There is family, laughter, misunderstandings, food, the joy of Patrick.

Thanks Debbie for introducing me to these characters and taking my mind off the world for a few hours.

Thanks Netgalley for the ARC for my honest review.

[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...

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley and Macomber for this opportunity. This was my first book by Debbie Macomber, always heard they are hallmark like. I cannot agree more! Such a cute, spiritual, cozy romance. I loved Chase from the beginning and with his personal growth made him my favorite character. Maisey bothered me a little at the end with her lack of faith and trust. Wish we didn’t have that tension between them and just worked out the other differences.

[Sue Sykes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a lovely new story from Debbie Macomber, this is the chance meeting of Maisy and Chase and the changes to each of their lives. The characters were well written and it’s such a feel good read that I read in one go. This is a book of kindness, selflessness and relationship. Loved it 📚
My thanks as always to NetGalley and Publisher Little, Brown Book Group UK | Sphere for the chance of the early read.

[Vickie Raynor · Rating 5 out of 5]

How is it possible for Debbie Macomber to keep getting better! By far my favorite book of hers. I felt so many emotions reading this book. The relationship between Marist and Chase started on rocky footing and the challenges that ensued were crazy, in a good and bad way. I sped through the pages, because I couldn’t wait to see what happened next. I was left with the most euphoric feeling, that I just sighed, wishing for more.

[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.

[Amy Neill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet, easy, Romance ... true Debbie Macomber style (squeaky clean). In this uplifting read, Macomber focuses on love of family, trusting God in difficult circumstances, and helping others. Set in Seattle, with lots of lovable characters.
Thanks to NetGalley for the advance read!

[Tonya · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5