Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
Raven hates football. Too bad she doesn’t feel the same way about her football-playing ex-fiancée.Raven Weber hates football. As if her fiancé breaking off their engagement to follow his NFL dream wasn't bad enough, her football-obsessed family only made things worse. Twelve years later, she pours everything into her job as a physical therapist assistant. Helping others never prepared Raven for the day her ex would hobble back into her life. How can she remain professional when spending time with him only reminds her of what they've lost?The day Heath Shaw walked away from his relationship with Raven, he’d been convinced he was doing it for her. Fulfilling his father’s dream gave him the distraction he needed to get over her. Now he’s back in his hometown with weeks of physical therapy ahead of him before he can escape the past. Running into Raven was going to happen eventually, but he didn't expect her to play a vital role in his recovery. If she's got him second guessing why he left in the first place, what effect will she have on his heart?Her meddling family thinks this is a second chance, while Heath's father only wants to squelch what he sees as a distraction. Raven and Heath know they should walk away, but what if they're better together than they ever were apart?~*~Welcome to the small town of Clearwater, perfect place to discover friends, renew your faith, and fall in love.This is the second title in the Brides of Clearwater series. Each book can stand on its own. However, updates about previous characters do appear in later books.Marrying Mandy - Book 1A marriage of convenience might be crazy... or an answer to both of their prayers.Marrying Raven - Book 2Raven hates football. Too bad she doesn’t feel the same way about her football-playing ex-fiancée.Marrying Chrissy - Book 3Does Chrissy dare hope that a fake relationship could lead to real love?Marrying Bonnie - Book 4He’s falling in love with the wrong person…his son’s nanny.Marrying Emma - Book 5She’s afraid to plan for the future…he’s determined to show her love is worth the risk.Marrying Noel - Book 6Can Cooper and Noel learn to embrace life's challenges together?

226 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 29, 2018

Loading...
Loading...

About the author

Melanie D. Snitker

46 books313 followers
Melanie D. Snitker is a USA Today bestselling author who writes inspirational romance and romantic suspense. She and her husband live in Texas with their two children. They share their home with three dogs and a variety of small animals. In her spare time, Melanie enjoys photography, reading, training her dog, playing computer games, and hanging out with family and friends.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
153 (58%)
4 stars
74 (28%)
3 stars
26 (10%)
2 stars
6 (2%)
1 star
1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
Profile Image for Rebekah Morris.
Author 121 books272 followers
April 30, 2019
I liked this story better than I thought I would. It focused more on relationships instead of how someone smelled or how their heart started pounding at the sight of the other person. This story was also about second chances and forgiveness. Raven was sweet and loved her family even if they were rather pushy. And Heath isn’t the stuck on himself NFL player I half expected. He handled his relationship with his parents well. I really did like the ending.

There are some kisses, but not many. This is a Christian book, but the Christianity wasn’t really strong. I don’t remember either character praying about their decisions all that much. But it was still good.
Profile Image for Melissa Henderson.
Author 8 books193 followers
March 24, 2018
Sweet story exploring challenges that can happen when two people in love find different paths in life. Will careers and family prevent true love? Can trust be found again? I cheered for the main characters. I couldn't wait to read each page to find out what the outcome would be for Raven and her ex-fiance. I received a copy of this story from the author and this is my personal honest opinion. No review was required.
Profile Image for Chanel.
226 reviews65 followers
December 21, 2019
An engaging, easy-to-read second chance romance with likeable characters and an authentic relationship build. I read this in a day - relating to the characters with ease and wanting to read one more chapter until I reached a beautiful, heartwarming ending! I loved it!
Profile Image for Brittany .
2,940 reviews211 followers
April 14, 2018
Marrying Raven was such a sweet and enjoyable second chances romance! I liked both Raven and Heath, even though I felt so bad for the way Heath had unexpectedly dumped Raven years ago.

These characters, who had been engaged and truly in love before the breakup, spent the next twelve years apart because of Heath’s decision. Their reunion was a realistic one, in my opinion, with some residual resentment and lingering pain between them.

Heath spent years knowing that he made a mistake when he left Raven, but he also justified that decision to himself by thinking that it was for her own good. Realizing the hurt he caused, and the lengths that it affected Raven, woke him up to the truth in this story. Watching Heath as he tried to figure out how to make things right with Raven and finally attempt to put their love first, was very romantic. Great characters and a great story! Marrying Raven is book two in the series, however it can be read as a stand alone novel.

(4.5 stars)

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Profile Image for Linda Rainey.
2,348 reviews22 followers
March 29, 2018
A Beautiful Romance

I loved this beautiful romance about second chances.
The characters were engaging with well crafted storyline.
This book is recommended for inspirational romance lovers.
2,413 reviews17 followers
July 26, 2019
A great story.

This was a great love story with some great characters. This is a really sweet, clean romance. I'm loving this series.
Profile Image for Faith.
Author 45 books271 followers
April 20, 2018
Title: Marrying Raven
Written By: Melanie D. Snitker
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Recommended Ages: 15+

Introduction:
I signed up to receive this book in advance. I didn't end up getting it finished before the release, but I wanted to review it anyway. And I'm glad I read it!

Characters: 1/1
I haven't read the first book in this series, so some of the minor characters were unfamiliar, but it wasn't hard to get into the book despite that. Raven and Heath were both well developed characters who had definite issues to work through. Their relationship developed in a realistic manner which was refreshing.

Dialogue: 1/1
I happen to know the author doesn't really know much about football, so I was pleasantly surprised how well she knew the lingo. There wasn't a lot, though, so even if you don't like football either, you won't be lost. All the dialogue was well done and realistic.

Plot/storyline: 1/1
As I mentioned above, the relationship developed realistically and the plot was thought out very well. I liked how it all worked out in the end.

Overall writing quality: 1/1
As with all the other books by Melanie I have read, the writing quality was excellent. I didn't find a single typo and the sentence structure was all very easy to do.

Un-put-down-ability: 1/1
I had a hard time putting Marrying Raven down especially toward the end. Of course, life got in the way, so I was forced to once in a while, but I definitely didn't want to.

Conclusion: 5/5
If you are looking for a good, sweet, clean romance this is the book for you. I highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Toni Shiloh.
Author 58 books1,975 followers
January 5, 2019
Another good read in the Brides of Clearwater series.
342 reviews
March 29, 2018
12 years ago Raven was left by her fiancé, Heath, so he could pursue his career in football. She was understandably hurt, angry, and never wanted to cross paths with him again. When she walks into a patient's room to help them with their physical therapy, she comes face to face with the man who took all of their dreams and threw them away.
I must admit, I was happy that Raven kept pushing Heath away. No one deserves to have the love of their life walk away without so much as an explanation, not to mention not contacting her for over a decade! Thankfully, throughout the story, many different aspects of the pressures from both of their parents come to the surface and Raven and Heath see things in a new light. Love that lasts that long certainly deserves a second chance!
This is a clean Christian romance and I would definitely recommend it! I received a copy of this book from the author, but all opinions in this review are my own.
Profile Image for Phyllis.
1,288 reviews35 followers
April 13, 2018
Marrying Raven by Melanie D. Snitker

Full of deep emotion, Marrying Raven is a book that touched my heart. I made a quick connection with the characters and felt I was experiencing their joys and pains along with them.

Both Raven and Heath dealt with a strong sense that they were unable to live up to their parents’ expectations. I am so thankful that my parents never caused me to feel that way!

Their reunion and reconciliation is a story of forgiveness and second chances. It is very moving and tender.


This review was originally posted on Among the Reads


I would like to thank Melanie D. Snitker for giving me this item. My opinion and review were not influenced by this gift.
Profile Image for Shona.
261 reviews3 followers
March 29, 2018
Heath left 12 years ago to pursue his career in football. He’s returned home to Clearwater after an injury requires him to have an operation. Raven is working as a physical therapist and is shocked to find Heath is her new patient. Why did he leave her all those years ago and can she ever forgive him for breaking their engagement. With pressure coming from parents, both negative and positive, and advice from friends and family will Heath and Raven be able to put aside the hurts of the last 12 years? This is a lovely romance which ticks all the boxes - indulge yourself and enjoy being back in Clearwater.
Profile Image for Debra.
3,470 reviews13 followers
October 20, 2021
Marrying Raven

This was about a second chance. Raven and Heath had been engaged back in high school. When it was time for him to go on to college he broke up with her. He went on to draft into the NFL. And hadn't been back in over twelve years. Now he is back due to an injury. She happens to be his PT assistant. Have the years taken away all good memories? Is there any chance that they both can move forward together? This is a inspirational story. There were reasons for his actions. Will she forgive him?
1,290 reviews10 followers
March 27, 2018
One thing is for certain.....I did not like Heath's father!!! To control someones life while they are in high school is one thing but at the age of 30 - unacceptable.
Heath and Raven were high school sweethearts...engaged to be married. Heath went on to play with the NFL and left Raven to move on with her life. Well that did not happen! She tried and he tried.
Loved the book. Love anything this author writes.
2,323 reviews45 followers
February 9, 2019
Marrying Raven by Melanie D. Snitker, is a sweet second chance romance. Twelve years ago Heath Shaw and Raven Weber's relationship ended. Heath left Clearwater to pursue his NFL dreams. Now he is back home to rehabilitate from an Achilles tendon injury. And guess who his PT is--Raven! I liked the characters and their story. I enjoyed this book and read it in one sitting.
Profile Image for Sarah.
576 reviews8 followers
March 27, 2021
Possibly even better the 2nd time!

I started reading my brand new Marrying Emma, when I realized that I needed to reacquaint myself with the much loved characters from the previous books. So I’m enjoying the wonderful Brides of Clearwater series from the beginning again. And remembering why I loved the stories so much the 1st time-fabulous characters and intriguing storylines full of faith, love, and God’s grace.
3,757 reviews20 followers
March 29, 2018
I can certainly understand why Raven didn't want to trust Heath with her heart again. He left her for his NFL dreams and didn't look back until an injury brought him home. But they both needed that time to mature and for Raven to discover her calling in life as a physical therapist assistant. Sweet romance with plenty of humor. It was nice to catch up with Mandy and little Barry from the first book. I can picture coffee addict Raven walking into Clearwater Coffee complaining to Chrissy that she can't get her caffeine fix because she's pregnant in the next book.
Profile Image for Joan Arning.
1,804 reviews29 followers
November 21, 2023
Heath Shaw is back in town after leaving his fiance' Raven Weber behind twelve years ago to pursue a NFL career! Both of their families are full of advice but Heath's father is not very kind with his demands! You will wonder if Heath and Raven will take advantage of a second chance or if Mr. Shaw will win again! I enjoyed this sweet Audio book on You Tube. This is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Miranda Summerset.
826 reviews5 followers
March 4, 2025
3/5 STARS! This is an easy & light read featuring a relatable second chance romance (one of my favorite tropes). I liked Raven a lot & how open & forward she was, & I also liked the growth of Heath. I also thought the family issues was great for the plot & enjoyed seeing how everything ended up in the end. Audiobook is fun, definitely recommend!
24 reviews
April 5, 2018
Loved it!

I thoroughly enjoyed Raven and Heath's story. I felt their heartbreak, and was overjoyed when they found their back ti each other. Both books in the Brides of Clearwater series are wonderfully written. I hope there will be more books coming out soon.
Profile Image for Anita Rohn.
2,000 reviews9 followers
April 6, 2018
Second chance

Hearts that are separated and hurt discover that love can be rewarding and absence leads to a new understanding and maturity. Time heals and binds them together and home is sweeter.
440 reviews
April 24, 2018
This is a second-chance romance novel. A well written book.

Can two people who were together until his career and their meddling families pulled them apart, have a second chance at love and happy ever after?

A great read with more substance than most romantic stories.

Profile Image for Samantha.
11 reviews
September 22, 2018
I have loved reading this book series thus far, the only reason I have been giving 4 stars rather then five is the abrupt endings. I feel there could be more to the endings to show what happens with the characters later on. Otherwise I love reading Melanie D. Snitker books!
4 reviews
February 22, 2019
Great series

I love books that are easy reads. After a busy fast paced day books like these are enjoyable because you don’t have to “work” at getting into them. They are what you expect. Sweet, clean love stories that allows your mind to reflect on young love.
Profile Image for Della.
68 reviews
April 12, 2021
A wonderful story of long, lost love & how they end up together!

Family’s are a wonderful thing until they start meddling with your life! This couple loved when young, separated after high school & years later were finally able to be together again & have a wonderful life!
130 reviews1 follower
March 16, 2025
I almost didn’t finish this book. I didn’t like the way Raven’s mom spoke about her and to her. And it never got better. It seemed like her mom didn’t think she measured up to her sister. I’m glad it had a happy ending.
85 reviews
August 28, 2025
Marrying raven

This story was great. I really enjoyed it and did not want to put it down. This story is about raven and heath and all the problems they endured in order to be together. You will not be disappointed in this story.😊😊
Profile Image for Sue Stinnett.
1,374 reviews4 followers
March 30, 2018
Second Chance

This book was amazing. One minute I wanted to smack some sense into one of them and the next minute I would almost swoon. Well worth your time to read.
Profile Image for Holly.
1,476 reviews11 followers
March 30, 2018
A sweet, clean romance by one of my favorite authors. 5 Star for the genre.
Profile Image for Melissa Wardwell.
Author 20 books934 followers
April 16, 2018
This was an enjoyable read filled with touching elements of love and forgiveness. I enjoy second change stories and this definitely one of my favorites.
Profile Image for Love.
1,747 reviews5 followers
April 16, 2018
Second Chance Love

This is a book with heartwarming and adorable characters that will steal your heart and make you believe in second chances for us all.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews