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Why Not?
Southern raised with a passion for mystery novels and stray animals, Ellie Moore is reeling. Her ex-husband remarried a woman who's everything she isn't - elegant and sophisticated - and the man she thought was "the one"? A scammer. When she wins a trip on the Senior Savers Cruise Line, she immediately packs her bags, ready for a change.
Having been nudged toward his golden years by forced retirement, introverted history teacher Mark Moore is given the worst gift a trip on the Senior Savers Cruise Line. Booked by the nieces he raised as his own, Mark has no interest in going on the trip - but even less in hurting the girls’ feelings. He downloads dozens of books to his phone and plans to spend the cruise avoiding as many people as possible.
Sparks fly when the cruise line accidentally pairs Ellie in the same stateroom as Mark. He hates that she’s messy and loud, and she thinks he’s just like all other men – untrustworthy to his core. But when Mark reconnects with Gavin, a former student in trouble with the law, Ellie jumps at the chance to help with what feels like a real-life mystery novel.
While joining forces to help Gavin, Mark and Ellie’s feelings for one another move from enemies to friends to possibly more. Mark is having more fun in his seventies than he ever did in his younger years. And Ellie’s certain that she might have finally found a man she can trust. But just when it seems like love is on the horizon, Ellie uncovers concerning information about Mark. He’s not who seems. Did Ellie fall in love with the wrong man again? Or is there more to the story?
Having been nudged toward his golden years by forced retirement, introverted history teacher Mark Moore is given the worst gift a trip on the Senior Savers Cruise Line. Booked by the nieces he raised as his own, Mark has no interest in going on the trip - but even less in hurting the girls’ feelings. He downloads dozens of books to his phone and plans to spend the cruise avoiding as many people as possible.
Sparks fly when the cruise line accidentally pairs Ellie in the same stateroom as Mark. He hates that she’s messy and loud, and she thinks he’s just like all other men – untrustworthy to his core. But when Mark reconnects with Gavin, a former student in trouble with the law, Ellie jumps at the chance to help with what feels like a real-life mystery novel.
While joining forces to help Gavin, Mark and Ellie’s feelings for one another move from enemies to friends to possibly more. Mark is having more fun in his seventies than he ever did in his younger years. And Ellie’s certain that she might have finally found a man she can trust. But just when it seems like love is on the horizon, Ellie uncovers concerning information about Mark. He’s not who seems. Did Ellie fall in love with the wrong man again? Or is there more to the story?
- GenresRomance
272 pages, Paperback
Published January 12, 2026
2 people are currently reading
8 people want to read
About the author
Leanne Treese
9 books91 followersLeanne lives in New Jersey with her husband of twenty-five years and their three wonderful children. When Leanne is not cheering her children on in their activities, she can be found running, watching Philadelphia 76ers basketball, and spoiling her two beloved dogs. Favorite locations include the Jersey shore, Martha's Vineyard, and any place that sells books or coffee, preferably both! A passionate student, Leanne's dream life would include going back to college and majoring in everything.
Leanne is a graduate of Lafayette College and The Dickinson School of Law. A former attorney, Leanne is now lucky enough to write full-time!
Leanne is a graduate of Lafayette College and The Dickinson School of Law. A former attorney, Leanne is now lucky enough to write full-time!
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
January 20, 2026
📚Why Not?
✍🏻Leanne Treese
Blurb"
Southern raised with a passion for mystery novels and stray animals, Ellie Moore is reeling. Her ex-husband remarried a woman who's everything she isn't - elegant and sophisticated - and the man she thought was "the one"? A scammer. When she wins a trip on the Senior Savers Cruise Line, she immediately packs her bags, ready for a change.
Having been nudged toward his golden years by forced retirement, introverted history teacher Mark Moore is given the worst gift a trip on the Senior Savers Cruise Line. Booked by the nieces he raised as his own, Mark has no interest in going on the trip - but even less in hurting the girls’ feelings. He downloads dozens of books to his phone and plans to spend the cruise avoiding as many people as possible.
Sparks fly when the cruise line accidentally pairs Ellie in the same stateroom as Mark. He hates that she’s messy and loud, and she thinks he’s just like all other men – untrustworthy to his core. But when Mark reconnects with Gavin, a former student in trouble with the law, Ellie jumps at the chance to help with what feels like a real-life mystery novel.
While joining forces to help Gavin, Mark and Ellie’s feelings for one another move from enemies to friends to possibly more. Mark is having more fun in his seventies than he ever did in his younger years. And Ellie’s certain that she might have finally found a man she can trust. But just when it seems like love is on the horizon, Ellie uncovers concerning information about Mark. He’s not who seems. Did Ellie fall in love with the wrong man again? Or is there more to the story?
My Thoughts"
Romance readers from their thirties to their eighties will love Why Not?, Leanne Treese's newest romcom proving later-in-life romance can be twice as surprising and passionate as young love ever was. What starts as an elderly cruise mishap quickly becomes a heartfelt, funny, and genuinely charming journey about second chances, and unexpected connections. Mark Moore is given the worst gift ever, a trip on the Senior Savers Cruise. Mark was not interested in in the trip but didn't want to hurt his nieces. Sparks fly when the cruise line accidentally pairs Ellie in the same room. Mark hates it Ellie is loud and messy . While joining forces to help Gavin, Mark and Ellie's feelings for one another move from enemies to friends and possibly more.
Thanks NetGalley, Moxie Publishing, LLC and Author Leanne Treese for the complimentary copy of "Why Not?' I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#LeanneTreese
#MoxiePublishingLLC
#WhyNot?
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✍🏻Leanne Treese
Blurb"
Southern raised with a passion for mystery novels and stray animals, Ellie Moore is reeling. Her ex-husband remarried a woman who's everything she isn't - elegant and sophisticated - and the man she thought was "the one"? A scammer. When she wins a trip on the Senior Savers Cruise Line, she immediately packs her bags, ready for a change.
Having been nudged toward his golden years by forced retirement, introverted history teacher Mark Moore is given the worst gift a trip on the Senior Savers Cruise Line. Booked by the nieces he raised as his own, Mark has no interest in going on the trip - but even less in hurting the girls’ feelings. He downloads dozens of books to his phone and plans to spend the cruise avoiding as many people as possible.
Sparks fly when the cruise line accidentally pairs Ellie in the same stateroom as Mark. He hates that she’s messy and loud, and she thinks he’s just like all other men – untrustworthy to his core. But when Mark reconnects with Gavin, a former student in trouble with the law, Ellie jumps at the chance to help with what feels like a real-life mystery novel.
While joining forces to help Gavin, Mark and Ellie’s feelings for one another move from enemies to friends to possibly more. Mark is having more fun in his seventies than he ever did in his younger years. And Ellie’s certain that she might have finally found a man she can trust. But just when it seems like love is on the horizon, Ellie uncovers concerning information about Mark. He’s not who seems. Did Ellie fall in love with the wrong man again? Or is there more to the story?
My Thoughts"
Romance readers from their thirties to their eighties will love Why Not?, Leanne Treese's newest romcom proving later-in-life romance can be twice as surprising and passionate as young love ever was. What starts as an elderly cruise mishap quickly becomes a heartfelt, funny, and genuinely charming journey about second chances, and unexpected connections. Mark Moore is given the worst gift ever, a trip on the Senior Savers Cruise. Mark was not interested in in the trip but didn't want to hurt his nieces. Sparks fly when the cruise line accidentally pairs Ellie in the same room. Mark hates it Ellie is loud and messy . While joining forces to help Gavin, Mark and Ellie's feelings for one another move from enemies to friends and possibly more.
Thanks NetGalley, Moxie Publishing, LLC and Author Leanne Treese for the complimentary copy of "Why Not?' I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#LeanneTreese
#MoxiePublishingLLC
#WhyNot?
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 25, 2026
Leanne Treese, the Author for “Why Not” has written a delightful, whimsical, heartfelt and entertaining novel. In this well-written novel, the author asks can people who are “seasoned citizens” in their seventies, find love? The author has vividly described the scenery, the plot, and the colorful and dramatic cast of characters. I appreciate that there is an animal lover, and quite a few different animals have their say in this story. The female protagonist Ellie Moore, is an outgoing Southern Woman with a love for animals. In her seventies, she is divorced and her ex-husband has gotten remarried. She helps her son in his veterinary practice. Some of her romantic endeavors have not been successful, and her son worries that Ellie will be scammed. After winning a senior cruise, Ellie is hoping to have a good time.
Mark Moore (no relation) is sent on the same cruise by the nieces he raised. Mark is a retired History teacher, and somewhat introverted. By some coincidence, perhaps the last names, both Ellie and Mark find themselves in the same cabin. Mark has some secrets from his past There are games and activities, and Mark discovers that Gavin, a past student is part of the recreation team. It seems that Gavin has some secrets and gets Mark and Ellie involved in his unorthodox activities.
What happens when you put two people that are opposite, several adventures and trouble together. Is it possible that they can fall in love? Why not? I loved this memorable, enjoyable and thought-provoking story and highly recommend it.
Mark Moore (no relation) is sent on the same cruise by the nieces he raised. Mark is a retired History teacher, and somewhat introverted. By some coincidence, perhaps the last names, both Ellie and Mark find themselves in the same cabin. Mark has some secrets from his past There are games and activities, and Mark discovers that Gavin, a past student is part of the recreation team. It seems that Gavin has some secrets and gets Mark and Ellie involved in his unorthodox activities.
What happens when you put two people that are opposite, several adventures and trouble together. Is it possible that they can fall in love? Why not? I loved this memorable, enjoyable and thought-provoking story and highly recommend it.
February 5, 2026
I’m giving this a 4 stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐
A big thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC! Leanne Treese has crafted something truly special here—a delightful, whimsical, and deeply heartfelt story that answers the question: Can you find "the one" in your seventies? Spoiler alert: Absolutely.
I fell in love with Ellie Moore, a vibrant Southern woman with a massive heart for animals (we love a girl who helps out at her son's vet clinic!). Watching her navigate the high seas alongside the introverted retired history teacher, Mark Moore, was such a joy. The scenery is vivid, the plot is engaging, and the cast of characters—including a few vocal animals—makes the whole journey feel so alive. It’s a beautifully written reminder that love doesn't have an expiration date.
Want more "Seasoned Romance" recs that will melt your heart? Sail over to my profile @TheLitWhisperer!
A big thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC! Leanne Treese has crafted something truly special here—a delightful, whimsical, and deeply heartfelt story that answers the question: Can you find "the one" in your seventies? Spoiler alert: Absolutely.
I fell in love with Ellie Moore, a vibrant Southern woman with a massive heart for animals (we love a girl who helps out at her son's vet clinic!). Watching her navigate the high seas alongside the introverted retired history teacher, Mark Moore, was such a joy. The scenery is vivid, the plot is engaging, and the cast of characters—including a few vocal animals—makes the whole journey feel so alive. It’s a beautifully written reminder that love doesn't have an expiration date.
Want more "Seasoned Romance" recs that will melt your heart? Sail over to my profile @TheLitWhisperer!
February 14, 2026
This book was the perfect mix of levity, mishaps, and later-in-life romance. It was just what I needed!
A booking mistake on a Senior Savers Cruise pairs animal-loving, messy, ball of sunshine Ellie Moore with introverted, grumpy, reading-about-plagues Mark Moore. Maybe not quite one bed, but they are stuck in one stateroom.
I loved these characters, both in their seventies and both big-hearted. They had years of experiences, both good and bad, that shaped them, plus each had adult children who were meddling too. The entire cast was lively, and the setting truly felt like a journey.
In this funny, warm, and charming story about second chances, Leanne Treese proves that romance and love knows no age limit.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @leannetreese for this gifted book.
A booking mistake on a Senior Savers Cruise pairs animal-loving, messy, ball of sunshine Ellie Moore with introverted, grumpy, reading-about-plagues Mark Moore. Maybe not quite one bed, but they are stuck in one stateroom.
I loved these characters, both in their seventies and both big-hearted. They had years of experiences, both good and bad, that shaped them, plus each had adult children who were meddling too. The entire cast was lively, and the setting truly felt like a journey.
In this funny, warm, and charming story about second chances, Leanne Treese proves that romance and love knows no age limit.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @leannetreese for this gifted book.
February 1, 2026
Why Not? by Leanne Treese is a fantastic romance that I absolutely loved.
I really enjoy that seasoned citizens (I love this phrase) in their seventies that are asking if they can still find love.
The female main character is Ellie Moore, is a fun Southern Woman who absolutely LOVES animals.
I loved the animals.
Her son thinks she should find romance, and she hasn't had any luck.
She wins a senior cruise, and Ellis is hopeful to have a great time.
Mark Moore, the male main character is on the cruise as well, he is definitely a lot more introverted than Ellie.
Somehow, they end up in the same cabin, maybe the last names?
I loved the force proximity trope with older characters.
I loved this book so much!!!!!!
Highly recommend!
I really enjoy that seasoned citizens (I love this phrase) in their seventies that are asking if they can still find love.
The female main character is Ellie Moore, is a fun Southern Woman who absolutely LOVES animals.
I loved the animals.
Her son thinks she should find romance, and she hasn't had any luck.
She wins a senior cruise, and Ellis is hopeful to have a great time.
Mark Moore, the male main character is on the cruise as well, he is definitely a lot more introverted than Ellie.
Somehow, they end up in the same cabin, maybe the last names?
I loved the force proximity trope with older characters.
I loved this book so much!!!!!!
Highly recommend!
February 5, 2026
I absolutely loved this one, it was such a delightful surprise. One of the first things that immediately caught my attention was Ellie. She works at a veterinary clinic and is a total animal lover, I was sold right away.
Ellie and Mark are older, and not exactly looking for love, which somehow makes finding it even sweeter. Ellie is funny, loud, and extroverted; Mark is grumpy, introverted, and perfectly content keeping to himself.
Watching them be forced into close quarters on a seniors cruise ship (yes, really) was equal parts hilarious and heartwarming.
This was a beautiful story about second chances, trust, and finding joy in unexpected places. It made me laugh, kept me smiling, and I closed the book feeling happy, that’s always a win for me.
Ellie and Mark are older, and not exactly looking for love, which somehow makes finding it even sweeter. Ellie is funny, loud, and extroverted; Mark is grumpy, introverted, and perfectly content keeping to himself.
Watching them be forced into close quarters on a seniors cruise ship (yes, really) was equal parts hilarious and heartwarming.
This was a beautiful story about second chances, trust, and finding joy in unexpected places. It made me laugh, kept me smiling, and I closed the book feeling happy, that’s always a win for me.
February 2, 2026
A sweet, funny, uplifting read!
What a sweet gem of a story! A perfect way to stave off the winter cold, and cosy up to this later-in-life romance. Why Not had me pulled in to the main characters orbits right away, laughing out loud at the banter and predicaments the 2 MCs find themselves in. I appreciated the way Treese portrayed the two main characters, Ellie and Mark - their vulnerabilities, their sass/sarcasm, and the true ying and yang of their relationship. A great read to start February off!
What a sweet gem of a story! A perfect way to stave off the winter cold, and cosy up to this later-in-life romance. Why Not had me pulled in to the main characters orbits right away, laughing out loud at the banter and predicaments the 2 MCs find themselves in. I appreciated the way Treese portrayed the two main characters, Ellie and Mark - their vulnerabilities, their sass/sarcasm, and the true ying and yang of their relationship. A great read to start February off!
February 12, 2026
Adorable from the front cover all the way through to the back! A darling romance at sea. The writing was phenomenal and the characters were so realistic, heartwarming, cute and hilarious. I loved this book! This story is an adventure about how life’s twists and turns can bring the most unexpected things. So "Why Not?" Loved the plot, great setting, and strong, interesting characters. An entertaining and very fun read you won't be able to put down, don't miss it!
February 15, 2026
I really enjoyed this romantic adventure so much! It's about two older adults that connect on a cruise ship. Ellie is an animal lover and Mark a history teacher. They come together to help one of Mark's former students. This was a charming, humorous and heartfelt romance. I really enjoyed this.
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews