Ready for Marriage / Finding Happily-Ever-After

by Debbie Macomber

HE'S READY FOR LOVE—AND EVERYTHING IT MEANS. IS SHE? 

Three years ago, Mary Jo Summerhill fell completely and utterly in love with Evan Dryden. But she was a kindergarten teacher, and he was a Boston blue blood with political ambitions. His family said she wasn't the "right kind of wife" for Evan. Mary Jo agreed—she didn't belong in his world. So she lied, and broke his heart. 

But now Mary Jo's parents are facing legal trouble, and she needs the best advice she can get. She needs Evan. Only, Evan isn't about to let Mary Jo off so easily. He wants answers to all the questions he's had for the past three years: Why did she leave? Does she still love him? Do they have a second chance? 

BONUS BOOK INCLUDED IN THIS VOLUME! 

Finding Happily-Ever-After by USA TODAY bestselling author Marie Ferrarella 

Private investigator Jewel Parnell doesn't believe in romance. But Christopher Culhane is determined to prove to her that she can find happily-ever-after with him—even if he has to convince her one kiss at a time…

Genres: Romance, Fiction, Contemporary Romance

411 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 1, 2015

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

[Laura Gardner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ready For Marriage: Very good, easy read! The characters were likeable from the beginning. The only part I didn't care for was the money part. It was a bit too predictable. I could see Evan being that kind, but I don't think he'd be one to turn down a good court battle.

Finding Happily-Ever-After: This one was pretty good! Very predictable and an easy read. The characters were cute, especially Joel! The only problem I had with this part was the constant bickering between Jewel and her mother. It didn't seem necessary or like it fit very well. It took away from the experience a little, and I'm not just saying that as a mother. Lol

Both are nicely written and likeable! If you have a chance to read them, go for it!

[Janice Cafarelli · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read the paperback version although could not find it listed on here..
Ready for Marriage by Debbie Macomber is the story of MaryJo who cancelled her marriage to Evan although she still loved him but now is seeking out his help as a lawyer to help her parents. Can she keep her emotions under control and how will Evan deal with her popping into his life again.

Finding Happily Ever After by Marie Ferrarella is the story of Chris who suddenly has custody of his 5 year old nephew when his sister dies. On his first instinct he hires Jewell who is a P.I. to find Joel's father but as he gets to know Joel and Jewell better he doesn't know what would be better for all concerned.

[Phyllis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Missed this Debbie Macomber book back when it was written. It was a pleasant listen.
I also enjoyed the bonus book by a different author that was included in the audiobook.
Sweet, charming, easy writing that made me feel good! Gotta have that sometimes!

[Di Schlenk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another winner by romance queen Debbie Macomber

[Barbi Huhn · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all, I read this in paperback form not on the Kindle.
These stories were wonderful in the fact that they were short and sweet and got to the point quickly with interesting characters.

[Phylisha Stone · Rating 3 out of 5]

Misunderstandings abound in this book.

[Chantelle J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

An imperfect couple yet true goodness which remains despite the time which passes. Thank you @bookbub for the recommendation was a lovely read.

[Linda O. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Both stories were excellent.

What a lovely bonus to have stories by two excellent authors one after the other. I enjoyed each one thoroughly.

[Reeds]

"Ready for Marriage" reminds me of her other story "Yesterday Once More." I won't personally need to read them again.

"Finding Happily-Ever-After" This one was better than the first one, but still not something that I'd crave reading time and time again.

The audio narrator is rather grating. Tavia Gilbert makes a "die-away airs sounds" at the end of every sentence. I guess she thinks it makes it sound like she is adding feeling, but it doesn't for me. I don't care for it.

[Camandwmm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ready for Marriage is a love story from three years ago that broke up because his mother told her she was not suitable for her son. She agreed and broke their engagement. Three years later they are still in love and he wants an explanation of why she broke the engagement.

Finding Happily Ever After - Joel is a five year little boy that lost his mother from a brain aneurysm. His uncle (mother's brother) hires a private investigator to find the boys biological father who has not been seen for three years. The child is just adorable so you fall in love with him. Good story.

[Luv · Rating 1 out of 5]

The 1980's called and they want their book back. This book was written before cell phones became popular and obviously has never been updated. A pretty new cover won't fix the problems with this book. Why would any author/publisher bring a book out that needs editing? This was a waste of money and reinforces why I avoid Harlequin books. This is the stereotypical old style cookie cutter romance plot format. Ho, hum boring! The author is now on my refuse to buy her books at any price list.

[Sherri Valder · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book, but I love all of Debbie's books. I really enjoyed the bonus book, Finding Happily-Ever-After by Marie Ferrarella.

[Mandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good and fun romance, Love the couple in this book!

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chris and Jewel

I enjoyed this book about a private investigator called to find the father of Chris's nephew after his mother dies. The story was a good romance.

[Glenda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Included "Happily-ever-after" by Marie Ferrarella i enjoyed more.

[Linda Klager · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice romance.