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Chapel Springs #4
Married 'til Monday
With a big anniversary party in the works for her parents, Ryan will pretend to be Abby's husband for just one last weekend.
Ryan McKinley has tried to move on from his ex-wife, Abby. He’s sulked, he’s gotten angry, and ultimately he bought her dream house. Big mistake. Living alone in the massive 2-story has only made him miss her more. When her parents call him out of the blue about their anniversary party in Summer Harbor, Maine, Ryan believes God has dropped a golden opportunity straight in his lap.
Abby McKinley never exactly told her parents about the divorce. A strained relationship with her dad has culminated in a distant relationship with her parents, but she’s finally succumbed to her mom’s pressure to make the drive for their 35th-anniversary party.
Then Ryan shows up on her doorstep, looking as devastatingly handsome as ever. When he insists he’s going to Seabrook, with or without her, Abby knows she can’t say no. Her parents still think they’re married and now Ryan knows it too. Besides, he only wants to check in with his best friend from college—her cousin Beau, who just lost his dad. It’s just a one-week road-trip with the man who broke her heart. What could possibly go wrong?
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2015
139 people are currently reading
1952 people want to read
About the author
Denise Hunter
86 books4,674 followersDenise Hunter is the award-winning author of more than 40 novels, three of which have been adapted into Hallmark movies.
Denise writes heartwarming, small-town romances, peopled with layered characters who have real-life issues. Her readers enjoy the vicarious thrill of falling in love and the promise of a happily-ever-after sigh as they savor the final pages of her books.
In 1996, Denise began her first novel, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she's been writing ever since. Her books contain a strong romantic element, and her husband says he provides all her romantic material, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!
Denise and her husband live in Indiana, where they raised three sons, and are currently enjoying an empty nest.
Denise writes heartwarming, small-town romances, peopled with layered characters who have real-life issues. Her readers enjoy the vicarious thrill of falling in love and the promise of a happily-ever-after sigh as they savor the final pages of her books.
In 1996, Denise began her first novel, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she's been writing ever since. Her books contain a strong romantic element, and her husband says he provides all her romantic material, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!
Denise and her husband live in Indiana, where they raised three sons, and are currently enjoying an empty nest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 372 reviews
July 22, 2015
ARC provided by publisher through Netgally in exchange for a honest review.
I didn't realize this was a Christian Fiction when I requested it.
How do I put this without receiving backlash from the Christian community?
I’ve read my share of Christian Literature and found them mediocre when it came to the romance genre. Why? Truth is they lack the romance part. The Christian references and mention of God tend to overpower the-butterflies-in-stomach sensation I love getting from romance books. I am a hopeless romantic, so can you blame me?
Maybe I just “don’t get it.” Maybe I’m not “devoted.” Maybe I don’t have “enough faith.” Maybe I don’t “appreciate” that God is essential to life and that He guides us through a lifetime, through every emotional and spiritual journey, through every hardship. Or maybe I’m “skeptical.” Or maybe the book is “too clean” and not a trashy romance.
A lot of maybes. Whatever. People will believe what they want and presume to know me.
It doesn’t change the fact that these books make me feel like I’m attending another Sunday of church. Too many God references every two paragraphs ruining my enjoyment.
Married Til Monday is a tolerable exception. It made me feel. It made me angry. It made me miserable. It made me believe in the couple. It made me believe in their love. The emotional depth really surprised me because I’m used to seeing it shoved into the trunk while the religious know-how takes shotgun.
I appreciate the reality of this story. When tragedy strikes, we often take out our anger and fear on the people we love and we even put the blame on God. What did we do to deserve this fate? If God loved us, why would he do this? “Without suffering, there is no compassion.” Yeah, sure, if sweet words can easily cheer you up. The fact that Abby questioned God is what I find realistic and understandable.
Another thing I like about this story: God does not simply exist for moral support and Abby and Ryan must have faith in themselves and act on their own free will. There is no meant to be. If you want something, you fight for it. We see that Ryan continues to fight for Abby, even though she convinces herself they aren’t good for each other. She has a paper heart that can easily be ripped into shreds and she doesn’t want him anywhere near it.
The voices of these two characters touched me on a personal level and their relationship is heart-warming as well as heart-wrenching.
Married Til Monday is a lovely story and I rate it three stars!
I can't find it in me to love this book and there are a few things left unresolved.
I didn't realize this was a Christian Fiction when I requested it.
How do I put this without receiving backlash from the Christian community?
I’ve read my share of Christian Literature and found them mediocre when it came to the romance genre. Why? Truth is they lack the romance part. The Christian references and mention of God tend to overpower the-butterflies-in-stomach sensation I love getting from romance books. I am a hopeless romantic, so can you blame me?
Maybe I just “don’t get it.” Maybe I’m not “devoted.” Maybe I don’t have “enough faith.” Maybe I don’t “appreciate” that God is essential to life and that He guides us through a lifetime, through every emotional and spiritual journey, through every hardship. Or maybe I’m “skeptical.” Or maybe the book is “too clean” and not a trashy romance.
A lot of maybes. Whatever. People will believe what they want and presume to know me.
It doesn’t change the fact that these books make me feel like I’m attending another Sunday of church. Too many God references every two paragraphs ruining my enjoyment.
Married Til Monday is a tolerable exception. It made me feel. It made me angry. It made me miserable. It made me believe in the couple. It made me believe in their love. The emotional depth really surprised me because I’m used to seeing it shoved into the trunk while the religious know-how takes shotgun.
I appreciate the reality of this story. When tragedy strikes, we often take out our anger and fear on the people we love and we even put the blame on God. What did we do to deserve this fate? If God loved us, why would he do this? “Without suffering, there is no compassion.” Yeah, sure, if sweet words can easily cheer you up. The fact that Abby questioned God is what I find realistic and understandable.
Another thing I like about this story: God does not simply exist for moral support and Abby and Ryan must have faith in themselves and act on their own free will. There is no meant to be. If you want something, you fight for it. We see that Ryan continues to fight for Abby, even though she convinces herself they aren’t good for each other. She has a paper heart that can easily be ripped into shreds and she doesn’t want him anywhere near it.
The voices of these two characters touched me on a personal level and their relationship is heart-warming as well as heart-wrenching.
Married Til Monday is a lovely story and I rate it three stars!
I can't find it in me to love this book and there are a few things left unresolved.
December 9, 2024
So...I've been wanting to read this since the first moment I read the synopsis. I'd never read any of the series before, but I honestly tried to read them first. This book taunted me from the shelf for a solid month while I read the first, got the second, and made it halfway through that one...and then I caved. And read the whole story in two sittings on a single day.
I knew I'd love it. I had extremely high expectations, and I still loved it. I connect really well with characters that are working through difficult relationships because they love each other enough to do the hard work. The minute Ryan told his mom he meant to win her back, I liked him. And seeing Abby's emotional scars and seeing him realize how he'd only made it worse was priceless...it doesn't seem like there's any hope for these two, but the journey is great. I loved it!
I knew I'd love it. I had extremely high expectations, and I still loved it. I connect really well with characters that are working through difficult relationships because they love each other enough to do the hard work. The minute Ryan told his mom he meant to win her back, I liked him. And seeing Abby's emotional scars and seeing him realize how he'd only made it worse was priceless...it doesn't seem like there's any hope for these two, but the journey is great. I loved it!
March 24, 2016
I absolutely love this story....
Ryan is awesome! For him to wait for Abby, his ex for three n a half years is something that I applaud. Not many guys are able to do so. He loves her unconditionally but he was young then n was clueless... But he made up for all the mistakes he did then.... For him to suffer thru the years n then went thru what he went to win her back is..... *sighhhhh* [Have no words to express how much I love him for that]
I hated Abby at first.. Just like the siblings... How could I not. She left my Ryan.... :) Well... at first, I didn't know her. I didn't know how she grew up. I didn't know the hardship she's been thru. How she was emotionally and physically abused. As her tale unravelled, I got to know her the way Ryan did and for her to come back to him when she realize what a b**** she had been.... to me... ALL IS FORGIVEN.
This is a very simple story... Very very simple in fact because basically the story only revolves both of them but it really captured my heart. I was captivated and finished the reading within 2 sittings despite my hectic schedule. To me... their love is pure because it stood the test of time. They never gave up and that's why the ending really touched my heart. I thought I was in love with Cole but Ryan won hands down! This will always be my favourite book of the Chapel Springs series. And owh... when PJ n Cole got married... I think that is a perfect fairy tale came thru for me because I love both of them and to have them in this story is definitely a bonus for me....
It was a wonderful reading of a beautiful love story and 2nd chance always works.... How I wish the story doesn't end.... *sighhhh*
Ryan is awesome! For him to wait for Abby, his ex for three n a half years is something that I applaud. Not many guys are able to do so. He loves her unconditionally but he was young then n was clueless... But he made up for all the mistakes he did then.... For him to suffer thru the years n then went thru what he went to win her back is..... *sighhhhh* [Have no words to express how much I love him for that]
I hated Abby at first.. Just like the siblings... How could I not. She left my Ryan.... :) Well... at first, I didn't know her. I didn't know how she grew up. I didn't know the hardship she's been thru. How she was emotionally and physically abused. As her tale unravelled, I got to know her the way Ryan did and for her to come back to him when she realize what a b**** she had been.... to me... ALL IS FORGIVEN.
This is a very simple story... Very very simple in fact because basically the story only revolves both of them but it really captured my heart. I was captivated and finished the reading within 2 sittings despite my hectic schedule. To me... their love is pure because it stood the test of time. They never gave up and that's why the ending really touched my heart. I thought I was in love with Cole but Ryan won hands down! This will always be my favourite book of the Chapel Springs series. And owh... when PJ n Cole got married... I think that is a perfect fairy tale came thru for me because I love both of them and to have them in this story is definitely a bonus for me....
It was a wonderful reading of a beautiful love story and 2nd chance always works.... How I wish the story doesn't end.... *sighhhh*
May 24, 2023
I feel bad, but Annie just drove me nuts. I could not stand her. I feel like Ryan should’ve just moved on, but I’m glad they worked through their problems. I wished we could’ve been in Chapel Springs more. Definitely loved the updates on the other couples. My favorite couple was definitely Jade and Daniel. I read that book in like three days. I’m also a huge fan of Pj and Cole. I’m definitely going to try the Summer Harbor series now.
December 4, 2017
Somehow I missed the fact that this was the last in the series when I first picked it up, but that didn't deter me from me enjoying the story one bit (it worked as a stand-alone). I really loved it!
Abby and Ryan have been divorced for three years when they end up going on a road trip together to attend a 35th wedding anniversary party for Abby’s parents. Ryan wants to go because it means a chance to win Abby back, and Abby resignedly agrees because, well- she hasn't told her parents about the divorce. Old hurts and heartbreaks are brought to the surface as Ryan and Abby try to discover what went wrong in their marriage and what their week together means for their future.
This book focused on some heavy topics, but also on hope and healing. Ryan and Abby had a lot of problems to overcome, and their journey from the start to the end of the book was heartbreaking and inspiring. Ryan was so patient and unwavering in his pursuit of Abby! He's a new favourite book character.
This was my second book by Denise Hunter, the first being The Convenient Groom. I loved that book and had high hopes that my next read by her would be a worthy successor. It definitely was!
Abby and Ryan have been divorced for three years when they end up going on a road trip together to attend a 35th wedding anniversary party for Abby’s parents. Ryan wants to go because it means a chance to win Abby back, and Abby resignedly agrees because, well- she hasn't told her parents about the divorce. Old hurts and heartbreaks are brought to the surface as Ryan and Abby try to discover what went wrong in their marriage and what their week together means for their future.
This book focused on some heavy topics, but also on hope and healing. Ryan and Abby had a lot of problems to overcome, and their journey from the start to the end of the book was heartbreaking and inspiring. Ryan was so patient and unwavering in his pursuit of Abby! He's a new favourite book character.
This was my second book by Denise Hunter, the first being The Convenient Groom. I loved that book and had high hopes that my next read by her would be a worthy successor. It definitely was!
November 6, 2015
I just have to say, I love the cover!
I always enjoy Ms. Hunter's books and I've been looking forward to reading this one. I've enjoyed this whole series and was curious to finally get some answers about Ryan and Abby.
Ryan and Abby were college sweethearts, but their happily ever after came to an end only a year (or so) into their marriage when Abby leaves Ryan. The story picks up three years later when Ryan finds would Abby never told her parents about their divorce. When he's invited to his in-laws anniversary party he sees it as a second chance with Abby.
While I did enjoy this story, it deals with some sad childhood trauma and it did give the book a heavy feel, at least for me. Abby has a lot of issues to work through, I was kind of hoping it would have been something she dealt with the three years they were separated, it seemed a little late in the book when she finally realizes how her upbringing has effected her relationship with Ryan. I liked Abby okay, but I definitely wanted to jump in there and shake some sense into her a few times. Ryan was great, he was patient and so in love with Abby. Again, I would have liked to see them together when Abby was in a more healthy place and I would have loved for her to confront her dad.
Overall, I did enjoy this one. It was well written and sucked me in. I read it in one sitting.
Content
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: Mild
I always enjoy Ms. Hunter's books and I've been looking forward to reading this one. I've enjoyed this whole series and was curious to finally get some answers about Ryan and Abby.
Ryan and Abby were college sweethearts, but their happily ever after came to an end only a year (or so) into their marriage when Abby leaves Ryan. The story picks up three years later when Ryan finds would Abby never told her parents about their divorce. When he's invited to his in-laws anniversary party he sees it as a second chance with Abby.
While I did enjoy this story, it deals with some sad childhood trauma and it did give the book a heavy feel, at least for me. Abby has a lot of issues to work through, I was kind of hoping it would have been something she dealt with the three years they were separated, it seemed a little late in the book when she finally realizes how her upbringing has effected her relationship with Ryan. I liked Abby okay, but I definitely wanted to jump in there and shake some sense into her a few times. Ryan was great, he was patient and so in love with Abby. Again, I would have liked to see them together when Abby was in a more healthy place and I would have loved for her to confront her dad.
Overall, I did enjoy this one. It was well written and sucked me in. I read it in one sitting.
Content
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: Mild
September 19, 2019
When I read a book, in three days, that says a lot for the book. It was definitely my favorite in the Chapel Springs series. Denise hunter’s books always carry a strong, emotional romance but this one was different for me; it was a romance between two people who were once married. It was a great reminder on how we should and shouldn't treat our loved ones. It was a story of learning to admit when you are wrong, and saying that you are sorry. And, as always, Denise Hunters always writes wonderfully, fully fledged characters that make you feel like they truly exist.
June 1, 2016
3.5 stars. There were points that the characters were heartbreaking, and their messy past was very fitting for what needed to take place in their lives now... but the pace and plot of the book was very fast for what all needed to happen for them to HEAL properly.
March 16, 2016
When ranking Denise Hunter’s novels, like any reader, I certainly have my favorites. But each time I learn of a new novel from this seasoned author, excitement is more than a little off the charts and I am guaranteed a lovely read at the very least. As her latest four-book series draws to a close with this release, I saw my review copy patiently awaiting its turn to be read and after reading it, am left wondering how I delayed cracking open its pages this long. Those who’ve read all three of these familial novels will know that book four is about Ryan McKinley, the eldest sibling in the quartet of siblings. Ryan is one hero with a darkened past because of the marriage and divorce he proceeded through, now gone three years. When he learns that his ex-wife, Abby, has never confessed their divorce to her parents, Ryan invites himself to tag along on her return home for her parents anniversary party. Feeling led by God to pursue a fresh, mature and healthy relationship with Abby, Ryan sees this as his one opportunity to win back the trust of his ex, but Abby isn’t receptive to the same feelings as Ryan...
Ryan’s story didn’t set out to be a reconciliation story (publicized in the author’s note), however I have to admit even back in book one, I had a sneaking suspicion Abby would work her way back into these books and the life – and heart, of Ryan McKinley. How happy I am to have had that inkling proven right. What’s unique about this story of second chances is that we had no opportunity to form an opinion of Abby. Or not much of one anyway. She was an established character in and to Ryan’s past however to us, the reader, it was as if we were being introduced to a new heroine and had to base our first impression off of that. All we had was the second hand opinions of the McKinley family. Mine would certainly be a favorable one. I adored Abby, and the interaction between she and Ryan is on-point. True she isn’t the most outgoing heroine, but there’s good reason for that. Through loving Ryan and eventually, recognizing the serious flaws she played in their marriage, she learns to live without the dark cloud hovering over her.
Potential readers should know that when this story draws to a close, there are still fractured relationships in place. Don’t misunderstand, there is the happy ending we root for and need, but Denise doesn’t give one specific relationship a dab of super glue for a “quick fix.” No, she leaves this relationship where she found it and I respect that. The rest of the book really needs no more explanation or praise because it speaks for itself. Married ‘til Monday is a remarkably well crafted redemption story that speaks for itself. From the gorgeous image of intimate love on its cover to the final pages, the book shines with the purest kind of emotion. It’s bittersweet that with Ryan’s story, we’re closing out a chapter in the lives of a family we’ve come to love as friends. But fortunately, Denise also sets up her next (presumed) trilogy and with it, the anticipation that the three brothers’ we’re going to meet in Summer Harbor will quickly take up residence in our hearts. Until then, be sure to add Married ‘til Monday to your summer reading lists. Forgiveness, flirty banter and hilarity, emotional tumult and family all co-mingle to make this one of my favorite reads of 2015.
Sincere thanks to the publisher for a complimentary copy of this novel for the purpose of reviewing it.
Ryan’s story didn’t set out to be a reconciliation story (publicized in the author’s note), however I have to admit even back in book one, I had a sneaking suspicion Abby would work her way back into these books and the life – and heart, of Ryan McKinley. How happy I am to have had that inkling proven right. What’s unique about this story of second chances is that we had no opportunity to form an opinion of Abby. Or not much of one anyway. She was an established character in and to Ryan’s past however to us, the reader, it was as if we were being introduced to a new heroine and had to base our first impression off of that. All we had was the second hand opinions of the McKinley family. Mine would certainly be a favorable one. I adored Abby, and the interaction between she and Ryan is on-point. True she isn’t the most outgoing heroine, but there’s good reason for that. Through loving Ryan and eventually, recognizing the serious flaws she played in their marriage, she learns to live without the dark cloud hovering over her.
Potential readers should know that when this story draws to a close, there are still fractured relationships in place. Don’t misunderstand, there is the happy ending we root for and need, but Denise doesn’t give one specific relationship a dab of super glue for a “quick fix.” No, she leaves this relationship where she found it and I respect that. The rest of the book really needs no more explanation or praise because it speaks for itself. Married ‘til Monday is a remarkably well crafted redemption story that speaks for itself. From the gorgeous image of intimate love on its cover to the final pages, the book shines with the purest kind of emotion. It’s bittersweet that with Ryan’s story, we’re closing out a chapter in the lives of a family we’ve come to love as friends. But fortunately, Denise also sets up her next (presumed) trilogy and with it, the anticipation that the three brothers’ we’re going to meet in Summer Harbor will quickly take up residence in our hearts. Until then, be sure to add Married ‘til Monday to your summer reading lists. Forgiveness, flirty banter and hilarity, emotional tumult and family all co-mingle to make this one of my favorite reads of 2015.
Sincere thanks to the publisher for a complimentary copy of this novel for the purpose of reviewing it.
May 28, 2016
I am totally becoming a Denise Hunter fan. This is the 3rd book that I have read by her and I just loved it! The characters were so real and raw, I could feel their anguish and understand their pain, and loved their touching moments. I have to admit I did get frustrated at times and wanted to shake one of the characters to come to their senses, but wow, I loved it. So I have read the 1st and the last book in this series, this book making it the last one. I WILL be reading the middle two, to learn more about the other two siblings in Chapel Springs!
January 8, 2020
*I reread this story as an audiobook and it was really good! I had to stop listening a bit before the end of the story, as my Audible Escape membership ran out, but since I had already read the book, I knew how things worked out. I enjoyed both reading and listening to the story.*
I have been wanting to know Ryan’s full story since book one of this Chapel Springs Romance series, and the author certainly did not disappoint me! In fact, I have really enjoyed this entire series. Dancing with Fireflies, book two, was previously my favorite of the books…but now I can wholeheartedly say that Married ’til Monday has taken its place in my heart as my favorite of the four stories. If you haven’t read the other books in the series, you can still enjoy Married ’til Monday as a stand alone. I would definitely recommend the entire series, though, because it is just such a good one.
This book is, to me, so much more than just a romance. There is such hurt and heartbreak living inside these two characters. I absolutely LOVED the way the author did the flashbacks in this story. The reader gets multiple peeks back in time. Glimpses from Abby’s childhood, Ryan and Abby’s first time to meet, the beginning of their romance, the beginning of their marriage, and even the difficult dissolution of that same marriage. So many of the memories are wonderful, but just as many are completely crushing to read about. This book delves into some very serious issues and does so in a way that is tactful, yet truthful.
The current thread of the story is just as enjoyable as the flashbacks. Denise Hunter simply writes awesome tension into her books. The attraction, the anger, the frustration…it is palpable throughout the story and makes it seem so real. She also controls the story at the same time. As you can imagine, these two characters were once madly in love. As they begin to experience feelings toward each other again, and struggle with their attraction to each other, the author never lets things go to far.
Married ’til Monday is not only my favorite book in the series…it has definitely made it onto my list of all-time favorite books. I highly recommend it to fans of contemporary romance.
My thanks to BookLook Bloggers for the complimentary copy of this book that I received in exchange for my honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I have been wanting to know Ryan’s full story since book one of this Chapel Springs Romance series, and the author certainly did not disappoint me! In fact, I have really enjoyed this entire series. Dancing with Fireflies, book two, was previously my favorite of the books…but now I can wholeheartedly say that Married ’til Monday has taken its place in my heart as my favorite of the four stories. If you haven’t read the other books in the series, you can still enjoy Married ’til Monday as a stand alone. I would definitely recommend the entire series, though, because it is just such a good one.
This book is, to me, so much more than just a romance. There is such hurt and heartbreak living inside these two characters. I absolutely LOVED the way the author did the flashbacks in this story. The reader gets multiple peeks back in time. Glimpses from Abby’s childhood, Ryan and Abby’s first time to meet, the beginning of their romance, the beginning of their marriage, and even the difficult dissolution of that same marriage. So many of the memories are wonderful, but just as many are completely crushing to read about. This book delves into some very serious issues and does so in a way that is tactful, yet truthful.
The current thread of the story is just as enjoyable as the flashbacks. Denise Hunter simply writes awesome tension into her books. The attraction, the anger, the frustration…it is palpable throughout the story and makes it seem so real. She also controls the story at the same time. As you can imagine, these two characters were once madly in love. As they begin to experience feelings toward each other again, and struggle with their attraction to each other, the author never lets things go to far.
Married ’til Monday is not only my favorite book in the series…it has definitely made it onto my list of all-time favorite books. I highly recommend it to fans of contemporary romance.
My thanks to BookLook Bloggers for the complimentary copy of this book that I received in exchange for my honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
July 22, 2016
If you enjoy Christian romance Denise Hunter is a MUST READ! Seriously, I'm never disappointed when I read one of her stories!
September 23, 2015
Married 'til Monday was such a fantastic read! I have loved this series, Chapel Springs, so much and hope we get more books with these characters some day. Ryan's story was so sweet and I loved the reconciliation story -- a great showing of second chances.
The characters were great and I felt like we really got to know them through this story. Abby had a difficult life and I definitely felt for her and all she went through. Ryan was a great MC and I loved how he tried to woo Abby back to him and yet also gave her space. Something else I loved -- the moments when we got to see the rest of Ryan's family and know what was happening in their lives.
All in all, I loved Married 'til Monday and definitely recommend it if you enjoy contemporary romance. So good!
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
The characters were great and I felt like we really got to know them through this story. Abby had a difficult life and I definitely felt for her and all she went through. Ryan was a great MC and I loved how he tried to woo Abby back to him and yet also gave her space. Something else I loved -- the moments when we got to see the rest of Ryan's family and know what was happening in their lives.
All in all, I loved Married 'til Monday and definitely recommend it if you enjoy contemporary romance. So good!
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
May 8, 2017
Ryan and Abby McKinley were married for a short time until Abby decided that she wanted out of their marriage. They have been divorced for three years. Ryan still loves Abby and feels that God is leading him to try to win Abby back but he doesn't even know exactly where she is living. She left saying that she was moving to Wisconsin and cut off communication with Ryan. God seems to be giving him a chance when he receives a call from Abby's parents asking that he try to attend their anniversary celebration in Maine. Abby had told them that Ryan had to work and could not attend their party. After much prompting from her parents, Ryan agreed to go but he has to find Abby. It is obvious that Abby never told them about their divorce. Ryan finds Abby in nearby Indianapolis and surprises her after work one evening. Somehow, he managed to convince Abby to let him go with her to Maine. He is hoping this is his chance to win her back. Abby's family life was not the best. She has a very strained relationship with her father. This helped her decide to let him go. She doesn't want her dad to know about their divorce. This is a great book and end to the Chapel Springs series. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
March 27, 2015
A lovely and captivating novel from the pen of Denise Hunter, “Married ‘til Monday” is more than a lighthearted romance. The author explores the psychological aspects of the effects of child abuse during the adult life.
Having read the previous books in this series, I looked forward to Ryan’s story. I knew he was divorced and couldn’t get over Abby – but what had happened exactly? In “Married ‘til Monday”, the reader will discover what went wrong during their marriage, but also that real love is not something you can put “off” just because you are divorced.
This is a story about a broken marriage and ex-spouses who both need healing and forgiveness. It is a tale of a restoring romance, longing for times gone by, dreading to plough through a hurtful past, fearing the future and making the same mistakes all over again.
I enjoyed this book from beginning to end. The author easily draws the reader in with humor and loveable characters. The last book in the “Chapel Springs” series, this might be one of Hunter’s best.
Thanks to NetGalley for my review copy.
Having read the previous books in this series, I looked forward to Ryan’s story. I knew he was divorced and couldn’t get over Abby – but what had happened exactly? In “Married ‘til Monday”, the reader will discover what went wrong during their marriage, but also that real love is not something you can put “off” just because you are divorced.
This is a story about a broken marriage and ex-spouses who both need healing and forgiveness. It is a tale of a restoring romance, longing for times gone by, dreading to plough through a hurtful past, fearing the future and making the same mistakes all over again.
I enjoyed this book from beginning to end. The author easily draws the reader in with humor and loveable characters. The last book in the “Chapel Springs” series, this might be one of Hunter’s best.
Thanks to NetGalley for my review copy.
October 23, 2021
This is such a wonderful well written book! I am sad to finish the Chapel Springs series but I am looking forward to start reading the Summer Harbor series that continue some characters that were mentioned in this book. This book explored the abuse a child suffers and the repercussions abuse has on a child even well into their adult years. This story was so very interesting.
November 4, 2018
Hmmm-mixed feelings about this one.
Book #4 didn't exactly live up to what I remembered of the Chapel Springs series. I'll never pass up an opportunity to read about the McKinley family, but I was uncomfortable with some of the content.
Book #4 didn't exactly live up to what I remembered of the Chapel Springs series. I'll never pass up an opportunity to read about the McKinley family, but I was uncomfortable with some of the content.
December 5, 2019
Very good! I'd been looking forward to Ryan's story almost from the beginning of the series and this book did not disappoint. It was quite interesting to read his and Abby's story.
August 5, 2020
In Married til Monday, Ryan McKinley gets an unexpected invitation to his ex-wife Abby’s parents’ anniversary party and learns a startling truth- she’s never told them about their divorce! Abby McKinley hates going home to Maine because of her rocky relationship with her father, but this time she caved to her mom’s pleading. She’s also dreading all the questions about why Ryan couldn’t make the time to come with her. But when he shows up on her front step looking better than ever, telling her he plans to go on the road trip with her, she can’t seem to tell him no. All Ryan wants is a chance to figure out what actually brought about their marriage’s disastrous ending... and a chance that maybe they can start over. Because the one thing he’s absolutely sure of is that he’s never stopped loving Abby with his whole heart. He’s got one week to play her husband and win her back... She keeps telling herself it’s just one week before she can say goodbye to him forever. What could possibly go wrong?
I loved this story. There’s a lot of water under Ryan and Abby’s relationship bridge. Both are flawed and hurting and neither really knows how they went from giddy love to endless fighting in no time flat. It takes a whole trip from Indiana to Maine and back again to figure it out! Of course all kinds of things go wrong... but a lot goes right too. Ryan has learned a lot in their three years apart. He’s determined not to throw away this chance straight from God to fight for Abby’s heart and the marriage that he wishes he could rebuild. But ultimately it’s Abby’s journey of self-discovery and digging into the scars from her childhood that gives this story its strength. Filled with sweet moments and can-I-slap-them? moments, Married til Monday ends the Chapel Springs series perfectly.
I loved this story. There’s a lot of water under Ryan and Abby’s relationship bridge. Both are flawed and hurting and neither really knows how they went from giddy love to endless fighting in no time flat. It takes a whole trip from Indiana to Maine and back again to figure it out! Of course all kinds of things go wrong... but a lot goes right too. Ryan has learned a lot in their three years apart. He’s determined not to throw away this chance straight from God to fight for Abby’s heart and the marriage that he wishes he could rebuild. But ultimately it’s Abby’s journey of self-discovery and digging into the scars from her childhood that gives this story its strength. Filled with sweet moments and can-I-slap-them? moments, Married til Monday ends the Chapel Springs series perfectly.
March 9, 2018
Ryan McKinley is still in love with his ex-wife Abby. He bought the house Abby daydreamed about. When Abby's mother calls to persuade Ryan to attend their anniversary celebration, Ryan sees it as an opportunity to at a second chance to win back Abby's heart. It turns out Abby has not told her parents she and Ryan are divorced due to her strained relationship with her father. Can the road trip from Indiana to Maine bring Ryan and Abby back together?
Abby carried a lot of hurt and pain from her childhood, causing her to guard her heart carefully. Ryan desperately wants to break down the barriers between them, but knows he must tread carefully.
A sweet story filled with wit, charm, hope and redemption.
Abby carried a lot of hurt and pain from her childhood, causing her to guard her heart carefully. Ryan desperately wants to break down the barriers between them, but knows he must tread carefully.
A sweet story filled with wit, charm, hope and redemption.
June 10, 2015
Over the past few years, Ryan McKinley has watched each of his younger sisters find love and happiness. He had that once too. But three years after his divorce, Ryan can't get Abby out of his heart. He's even bought her dream home and is living there. Then he gets a call from her parents out of the blue. Ryan soon learns that Abby has not told her parents about their divorce as he's been invited to celebrate their anniversary in Summer Harbor, Maine. Ryan sees the trip as a second chance to win his wife back. Abby doesn't want to go to her parents' anniversary party, especially with her handsome ex-husband along for the ride. But her parents don't know of divorce and she'd rather keep it that way. She doesn't want Ryan getting close to her. Or does she? Because each day is bringing them closer together. Can Ryan prove that he still loves her after all this time? And will Abby let her guard down enough to reclaim what she thought she'd lost forever?
I LOVED this book! Seriously loved it. Yes this is book 4. Yes it stands alone. While it is helpful to have read the others in the series before this one, it doesn't distract from this story if you haven't. Because I have only read book 3 prior to my picking up this one. I've since read book 2 and still need to read the first. But Ryan's story is not dependent on the events in the other three books.
First there's Ryan. He loves Abby. He will do all that he can to show Abby the depth of his love. I love the way that he pursues her. And their story as to what happened in their marriage was rather heartbreaking. But I loved the way that Ryan recognizes the fault he had in their marriage and how he is willing to not make the same mistakes again. I also love how he defends Abby.
For Abby's part, I loved her struggle. She has a lot of emotional issues and she's afraid to trust Ryan again. But she slowly begins to trust him. I loved how the author shows Abby's problems and how she points out that Abby needs help and not to hide them. I loved how Abby was able to recognize that the things that happened to her were not in her control.
I love fluffy romance novels. And this one fit that bill. From the delightful cover to the rich story, I was utterly captivated. Fans of contemporary romance will surely enjoy this one.
I received a copy for free from the Book Look Blogger Program for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of contemporary romance, Denise Hunter, Kristen Billerbeck, Melissa Tagg
Rating - 5 stars
I LOVED this book! Seriously loved it. Yes this is book 4. Yes it stands alone. While it is helpful to have read the others in the series before this one, it doesn't distract from this story if you haven't. Because I have only read book 3 prior to my picking up this one. I've since read book 2 and still need to read the first. But Ryan's story is not dependent on the events in the other three books.
First there's Ryan. He loves Abby. He will do all that he can to show Abby the depth of his love. I love the way that he pursues her. And their story as to what happened in their marriage was rather heartbreaking. But I loved the way that Ryan recognizes the fault he had in their marriage and how he is willing to not make the same mistakes again. I also love how he defends Abby.
For Abby's part, I loved her struggle. She has a lot of emotional issues and she's afraid to trust Ryan again. But she slowly begins to trust him. I loved how the author shows Abby's problems and how she points out that Abby needs help and not to hide them. I loved how Abby was able to recognize that the things that happened to her were not in her control.
I love fluffy romance novels. And this one fit that bill. From the delightful cover to the rich story, I was utterly captivated. Fans of contemporary romance will surely enjoy this one.
I received a copy for free from the Book Look Blogger Program for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of contemporary romance, Denise Hunter, Kristen Billerbeck, Melissa Tagg
Rating - 5 stars
December 29, 2022
I loved Married til Monday! I was so invested in Ryan and Abby's second chance love story, and their journey from heartbreak to healing warmed my heart.
It was virtually impossible to read this story and not be completely in love with Ryan at the end of it. He was remorseful about the part he played in his failed marriage and more determined than ever to get a second chance. He loved Abby tenaciously, he defended her, and he patiently broke down the walls around her heart. He was such a swoony hero and I absolutely adored him.
As for Abby, my heart went out to her for all pain she suffered in her childhood. But despite all her baggage, she still had a good heart and her guardedness masked her vulnerability. I liked reading the full circle of her emotional and spiritual journey, as she discovered answers about herself and the impact her past had on her present. It was so inspiring to read that even though there's pain in healing, God can use our hurts for good.
I loved Ryan and Abby as a couple too - they complemented each other in their personalities very well. I also appreciated the realism of their struggles and their honesty of what led to the fallout of their marriage (how the blame never landed on one person). It made their healing and HEA so satisfying and sweet.
All in all, Married til Monday was engaging, heart-wrenching, hopeful, and full of love. It was a wonderful ending for this series.
It was virtually impossible to read this story and not be completely in love with Ryan at the end of it. He was remorseful about the part he played in his failed marriage and more determined than ever to get a second chance. He loved Abby tenaciously, he defended her, and he patiently broke down the walls around her heart. He was such a swoony hero and I absolutely adored him.
As for Abby, my heart went out to her for all pain she suffered in her childhood. But despite all her baggage, she still had a good heart and her guardedness masked her vulnerability. I liked reading the full circle of her emotional and spiritual journey, as she discovered answers about herself and the impact her past had on her present. It was so inspiring to read that even though there's pain in healing, God can use our hurts for good.
I loved Ryan and Abby as a couple too - they complemented each other in their personalities very well. I also appreciated the realism of their struggles and their honesty of what led to the fallout of their marriage (how the blame never landed on one person). It made their healing and HEA so satisfying and sweet.
All in all, Married til Monday was engaging, heart-wrenching, hopeful, and full of love. It was a wonderful ending for this series.
August 25, 2020
I was looking forward to this last book in the Chapel Springs series which revolved around the oldest sibling, Ryan. Ryan was divorced from the love of his live, Abby; but he still loved her with all of his heart and soul. He has spent 3 1/2 years trying to figure out what went wrong in their marriage, and now feels that God is telling him it is time to try again. Little does he know that it is Abby's past that had affected her and tore them apart.
This book had the most depth of the four books in this series. Although there were light moments like when Abby and Ryan were pretending to be married for her parents, there were darker moments as well as Abby confronted the abuse and relationship between her and her father. As God worked through her life along with a wonderful friend who was a psychologist, that she found her own self-worth and confidence. I loved how supportive Ryan was through it all even when he was frustrated.
Good clean contemporary romance that is a great finale to a wonderful series.
This book had the most depth of the four books in this series. Although there were light moments like when Abby and Ryan were pretending to be married for her parents, there were darker moments as well as Abby confronted the abuse and relationship between her and her father. As God worked through her life along with a wonderful friend who was a psychologist, that she found her own self-worth and confidence. I loved how supportive Ryan was through it all even when he was frustrated.
Good clean contemporary romance that is a great finale to a wonderful series.
May 2, 2016
The last book in the Chapel Hill series. Of the four McKinley siblings Ryan McKinley is my favorite. Divorced from his wife Abby for over three years he was still in love with her. Abby had never informed her parents that she was divorced. Her parents had an anniversary weekend plan so Ryan and Abby had to pretend they were married for a couple of days. I loved how Ryan took this as an opportunity to win back her affections. This task was not an easy one as there was childhood baggage he was not aware of and many layers to unravel. This was Denise Hunter's first reconciliation story and I have a feeling it won't be the last.
In this novel were were introduced the Callahans, three brothers who will the next series by the author. The name of the next series is Summer Harbor.
In this novel were were introduced the Callahans, three brothers who will the next series by the author. The name of the next series is Summer Harbor.
February 15, 2017
by Andrea Renee Cox
The lead female annoyed me to pieces. I never did like her. She kept flip-flopping on whether or not she wanted to get back together with her ex and ended up playing with his emotions more than anything. I ended up rooting for him to forget her and move on to a more settled woman who wouldn't change her mind about loving him over and over again.
My mom found this book a light and fun read, so I know other readers will enjoy it a lot more than I did.
This is my honest review.
The lead female annoyed me to pieces. I never did like her. She kept flip-flopping on whether or not she wanted to get back together with her ex and ended up playing with his emotions more than anything. I ended up rooting for him to forget her and move on to a more settled woman who wouldn't change her mind about loving him over and over again.
My mom found this book a light and fun read, so I know other readers will enjoy it a lot more than I did.
This is my honest review.
March 20, 2019
Should I review this book?
June 2, 2015
Yeah. What could go wrong? lol.
"There's no if. I'll be back next Monday, and everything will be exactly like it is now. You'll see."
I was soooo looking forward to Ryan's story after reading all the other books in the Chapel Springs series. The poor guy has been pining for his ex-wife, Abby, and I couldn't wait to hear their story. This restoration romance didn't disappoint!
Full of angst, the remnants of a emotionally and physically abusive childhood:
It's not true. Nothing he said is true. I'm not stupid. I'm not worthless. I'm not unlovable.
A faith thread that asks some tough questions:
Thank You, God, he'd said. Where was God now? And how come He only got credit for the good stuff?
Sprinkled with light, playful moments like this:
She suddenly realized it had been quiet a moment. Her eyes shot up to find him watching her, gun lowered. She wiped the appreciation from her face. "Not bad," she said, stepping up to take her turn.
He smirked. "My aim or...?"
"Your aim, smart aleck." She reloaded the gun, her face heating.
"If I didn't know any better, Abby McKinley, I'd think you were checking out my form."
Sigh...
Married 'til Monday has all the components that a romance lover craves, including a hero that digs deeper than the exterior to reveal a soft, hurting woman underneath the tough, you-don't-want-to-love-me, I've-got-too-much-baggage facade. Save a chunk of time because you won't want to put this gem down!
Disclaimer: Sending a big thanks to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson Fiction and Denise Hunter for the privilege of reviewing Married 'til Monday. I was provided a free copy of the book in exchange for my fair and unbiased review.
"There's no if. I'll be back next Monday, and everything will be exactly like it is now. You'll see."
I was soooo looking forward to Ryan's story after reading all the other books in the Chapel Springs series. The poor guy has been pining for his ex-wife, Abby, and I couldn't wait to hear their story. This restoration romance didn't disappoint!
Full of angst, the remnants of a emotionally and physically abusive childhood:
It's not true. Nothing he said is true. I'm not stupid. I'm not worthless. I'm not unlovable.
A faith thread that asks some tough questions:
Thank You, God, he'd said. Where was God now? And how come He only got credit for the good stuff?
Sprinkled with light, playful moments like this:
She suddenly realized it had been quiet a moment. Her eyes shot up to find him watching her, gun lowered. She wiped the appreciation from her face. "Not bad," she said, stepping up to take her turn.
He smirked. "My aim or...?"
"Your aim, smart aleck." She reloaded the gun, her face heating.
"If I didn't know any better, Abby McKinley, I'd think you were checking out my form."
Sigh...
Married 'til Monday has all the components that a romance lover craves, including a hero that digs deeper than the exterior to reveal a soft, hurting woman underneath the tough, you-don't-want-to-love-me, I've-got-too-much-baggage facade. Save a chunk of time because you won't want to put this gem down!
Disclaimer: Sending a big thanks to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson Fiction and Denise Hunter for the privilege of reviewing Married 'til Monday. I was provided a free copy of the book in exchange for my fair and unbiased review.
June 27, 2017
Characters: With a story that looks into the heart like this one does, it needs characters that truly come alive off the page. Ryan and Abby do that. Both characters are quite complex and developed making them and their situation quite believable. They also have the reader rooting for both of them to work things out, because it is obvious that they are better together than seperate. The other characters who grace the pages are not many, but they create an impact and further develop the story between Ryan and Abby.
Storyline: I wasn't sure how I would like the story that this book was telling, but I was intrigued. I quickly found myself absorbed. Even better, I had no idea how things would end (despite being a love story... and we all know how they typically end!).
My Thoughts: This was a surprising book. The story crept right into my heart and I found myself really feeling for Ryan and Abby in this story. It was beautifully told and the novel just had a lot of heart to it. The subjects dealt with in the story certainly were not easy, but Denise Hunter handled them with care and created a story with some great lessons on love, healing, and forgiveness.
This novel is part of a Denise Hunter's Chapel Spring Romance series. I have not read any of the previous books and other than brief mentions/catching up with characters in a coulpe of scenes in the book, I don't feel like I missed out on anything. However, I enjoyed this book enough that I'll probably seek out those other books.
**I received a copy of this book from Thomas Nelson and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.**
Storyline: I wasn't sure how I would like the story that this book was telling, but I was intrigued. I quickly found myself absorbed. Even better, I had no idea how things would end (despite being a love story... and we all know how they typically end!).
My Thoughts: This was a surprising book. The story crept right into my heart and I found myself really feeling for Ryan and Abby in this story. It was beautifully told and the novel just had a lot of heart to it. The subjects dealt with in the story certainly were not easy, but Denise Hunter handled them with care and created a story with some great lessons on love, healing, and forgiveness.
This novel is part of a Denise Hunter's Chapel Spring Romance series. I have not read any of the previous books and other than brief mentions/catching up with characters in a coulpe of scenes in the book, I don't feel like I missed out on anything. However, I enjoyed this book enough that I'll probably seek out those other books.
**I received a copy of this book from Thomas Nelson and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.**
June 14, 2015
I'd long been looking forward to reading Ryan's story. It was as good as I expected. No. Even better. I read this book in two days in two sittings. Love the characters, love the road trip, love the kisses. Ryan was such a sweet patient hero in trying to love Abby through her difficult past. I couldn't wait to get to the end, but didn't want the book to end. I hate to see the McKinley series end. But I'm looking forward to the new series spin off. I sincerely hope Denise Hunter never stops writing. Even though I've discovered other authors I love, she's still my all time favorite.
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August 14, 2020Heroine ruined the book
I would have really liked this story but the heroine just annoyed me. Yes she was damaged but her constant pushing away was too much. The hero was so in love with her. I don't understand why she didn't see it. The dog Boo was wonderful of course. His family was a little judgemental but the loved their son and she hurt him. I wish he would have chased her but then there wouldn't be this book. Unfortunately it wouldn't have been a big loss. Just not a great love story.
I would have really liked this story but the heroine just annoyed me. Yes she was damaged but her constant pushing away was too much. The hero was so in love with her. I don't understand why she didn't see it. The dog Boo was wonderful of course. His family was a little judgemental but the loved their son and she hurt him. I wish he would have chased her but then there wouldn't be this book. Unfortunately it wouldn't have been a big loss. Just not a great love story.
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