Publisher: Ballantine Books

Published: July 13, 2021

Rating: 3.75 stars out of 5

Source: Audiobook through LIbby from Local Public Library and Hardcover from Local Public Library

Available Formats: Digital, Audio, Hardcover, and Large Print Paperback

My Review: This is not my favorite Debbie Macomber but it is still a good romantic read.

I opted to listen to most of on audiobook although I had the book to read. I think that helped me get more into the story.

The story almost felt too perfect at times but that is what I expect from a romance book. I was able to let myself be lost in another world for a few hours. The narrator was very good and kept me entertained.

From Goodreads: After divorce shatters her family, one woman’s struggle to pick up the pieces finally leads to a new beginning–but is the past truly behind her? #1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber explores the powerful intersections of love and family in this poignant novel.

It’s been nearly six years since Julia Jones had her heart broken. After her husband became involved with another woman, she did everything she could to save their marriage, to no avail. Their two daughters continue to stand by Julia in the wake of their father’s behavior–and they’ve had a tough time getting along with the other woman who became their stepmother. Distraught after selling the family home, Julia moved into a condominium complex that offers the warmth and charm of a fresh start. Now, having settled into her new community and sold her successful interior design business, she’s embraced a fulfilling new life, one that doesn’t seem to need a man in it. Her beloved father’s trusty saying is ringing truer than ever: It’s better this way.

But when Julia meets a handsome new resident in the building’s exercise room, she can’t help but be drawn to him. Heath Johnson is a welcome change from the men she’s encountered on the occasional–mostly disastrous–dates her sister has eagerly planned for her over the years. As she and Heath, a divorcé himself, begin to grow close, their friendship blossoms into a love neither of them had expected. However, they soon realize that combining families, even with four adult children, presents inevitable challenges.

When a dramatic revelation threatens the happiness they’ve found, Julia and Heath must reconcile their love for their children with their love for each other. If they can’t, their bright future together may be nothing but a dream.