Best Selling Paperback Books by Debbie Macomber

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER * Christmas is the season of the heart, and #1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber is here to warm yours with a delightful holiday novel of first impressions and second chances. Merry Knight is pretty busy these days. She''s taking care of her family, baking cookies, decorating for the holidays, and hoping to stay out of the crosshairs of her stressed and by-the-book boss at the consulting firm where she temps. Her own social life is the last thing she has in mind, much less a man. Without her knowledge, Merry''s well-meaning mom and brother create an online dating profile for her--minus her photo--and the matches start rolling in. Initially, Merry is incredulous, but she reluctantly decides to give it a whirl. Soon Merry finds herself chatting with a charming stranger, a man with similar interests and an unmistakably kind soul. Their online exchanges become the brightest part of her day. But meeting face-to-face is altogether different, and her special friend is the last person Merry expects--or desires. Still, sometimes hearts can see what our eyes cannot. In this satisfying seasonal tale, unanticipated love is only a click away. Praise for Merry and Bright "Warm and sweet as Christmas cookies, this new Debbie Macomber romance is sure to be a hit this holiday season."--Bookreporter "Heartfelt, cheerful . . . Readers looking for a light and sweet holiday treat will find it here."--Publishers Weekly

Includes an excerpt from Window on the bay.

One hundred warm and inviting original recipes from the kitchen and the novels of #1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber She’s welcomed you to the Rose Harbor Inn in Cedar Cove, and now the beloved author invites you to take a seat at her table in a new cookbook featuring her favorite recipes. For Debbie Macomber, food means family—recipes and holiday traditions are passed down through generations, and meals provide opportunities for everyone to gather and share their love. In this treasure trove you’ll find one hundred delicious dishes that have become Debbie Macomber’s staples, some inspired by her novels and others by family and friends, including • Baked Oatmeal—a comforting start to the day, and something Jo Marie would serve her Rose Harbor Inn guests. • Grilled Fish Tacos with Cilantro-Lime Sauce—a perfect date night delight for Nichole and Rocco from A Girl’s Guide to Moving On • Gratitude Bread—a wonderful way to express appreciation for the loved ones in your life, a gift that Shay from Any Dream Will Do would bake for her neighbors • Honey-Chipotle Oven-Roasted Ribs—a mouthwatering dish created by Debbie’s son-in-law, but Sam Carney from If Not for You would easily whip up a succulent platter for friends • Eggnog Cookies—a sweet treat that Merry would give to Bright in Debbie’s Christmas classic • Guinness Pot Pie—a meaty show-stopping sensation that could win the heart of a hero in any of Debbie’s books, or the hero in your life You’ll also discover Macomber go-to favorites—Roasted Sesame Asparagus, Debbie’s Light Clam Chowder, Cookies and Cream Frozen Dessert. And no cookbook would be complete without Debbie’s guilty pleasure: seasoned popcorn. Loaded with gorgeous photographs and memorable stories about the author’s cherished traditions, Debbie Macomber’s Table embraces the idea that food is more than nourishment. It is a blessing that brings family and friends together.

Jenna Boltz''s life is at a crossroads. After a messy divorce nearly twenty years ago, she raised her two children on her own, juggling motherhood with her beloved job as a Seattle intensive care nurse. Now that Paul and Allie have gone to college and moved out, Jenna can''t help but wonder what her future holds. Her best friend, Maureen, is excited for Jenna''s newfound independence. Now is the perfect time to finally book the trip to Paris they''ve been dreaming of since their college days. But when it comes to life''s other great adventure--dating--Jenna still isn''t sure she''s ready to let love in.

"Each new guest at the Rose Harbor Inn is touched by a letter that proves love is strong enough to overcome any challenge. For Ellie Reynolds, it''s a letter from a man she thinks she knows that reconnects her with the father she can''t remember, and opens the doors for new love. For Maggie Porter, the reemergence of an old love letter from her husband reminds the couple of what''s most important and helps them rekindle an old flame. And for Jo Marie Rose, revisiting a letter from her husband Paul who was killed in battle in Afghanistan gives her the blessing she needs to see a new future for the first time since he went missing in action. Weaving together three moving stories of healing, forgiveness, and compassion, Debbie Macomber''s latest novel illuminates the many ways we are shaped and changed by love"--

From beloved author and Hallmark Channel favorite Debbie Macomber, this special adult coloring book features forty-five original illustrations depicting scenes from the Rose Harbor and Blossom Street series. Unplug and let the creativity flow MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME The heartwarming novels of Debbie Macomber are known for their colorful locales, cheerful themes, and inspiring messages, and that spirit of comfort and generosity is on display throughout this one-of-a-kind collector''s item. The World of Debbie Macomber: Come Home to Color is packed with black-and-white illustrations of intricate knitting images, soothing landscapes, and cozy scenes from the long-running Rose Harbor and Blossom Street series--all of which you bring to dazzling life. There''s no place like home--and there''s no coloring book quite like this one.

Feeling low after her boyfriend cheated on her, Lindy Carmichael heads home to Wenatchee, Washington, for Christmas where her mother encourages her to write a grown-up letter to Santa, which ultimately brings her hope and joy.

When Justine and Seth lose their restaurant, The Lighthouse, to arson, they must rebuild their lives and their marriage, while the residents of Cedar Cove go about their daily business dealing with marriages, births, reunions, and scandals.

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER * Continuing in a festive annual tradition, Debbie Macomber returns with a new original holiday novel full of romance and cheer--and the magical prospect of finding love in the most unexpected places. Friendly and bubbly, Julia Padden likes nearly everyone, but her standoffish neighbor, Cain Maddox, presents a particular challenge. No matter how hard she''s tried to be nice, Cain rudely rebuffs her at every turn, preferring to keep to himself. But when Julia catches Cain stealing her newspaper from the lobby of their apartment building, that''s the last straw. She''s going to break through Cain''s Scrooge-like exterior the only way she knows how: by killing him with kindness. To track her progress, Julia starts a blog called The Twelve Days of Christmas. Her first attempts to humanize Cain are far from successful. Julia brings him homemade Christmas treats and the disagreeable grinch won''t even accept them. Meanwhile, Julie''s blog becomes an online sensation, as an astonishing number of people start following her adventures. Julia continues to find ways to express kindness and, little by little, chips away at Cain''s gruff façade to reveal the caring man underneath. Unbelievably, Julia feels herself falling for Cain--and she suspects that he may be falling for her as well. But as the popularity of her blog continues to grow, Julia must decide if telling Cain the truth about having chronicled their relationship to the rest of the world is worth risking their chance at love. Praise for Twelve Days of Christmas "Another heartwarming seasonal [Debbie] Macomber tale, which fans will find as bright and cozy as a blazing fire on Christmas Eve."--Kirkus Reviews "Twelve Days of Christmas is a delightful, charming read for anyone looking for an enjoyable Christmas novel. . . . Settle in with a warm blanket and a cup of hot chocolate, and curl up for some Christmas fun with Debbie Macomber''s latest festive read."--Bookreporter "If you''re looking for a quick but meaningful holiday romance that will be sure to spark a need inside you to show others kindness, look no further than Twelve Day of Christmas."--Harlequin Junkie "Twelve Days of Christmas is a charming, heartwarming holiday tale. With poignant characters and an enchanting plot, Macomber again burrows into the fragility of human emotions to arrive at a delightful conclusion."--New York Journal of Books

A two-in-one reissue from a best-selling author includes a pair of stories about lawmen and the women they love, including Shadow Chasing and For All My Tomorrows.

In Debbie Macomber’s delightful take on Beauty and the Beast, an idealistic teacher and a mysterious mogul prove that opposites do attract . . . all the way to happily ever after. Unspoiled by the trappings of wealth, Judy Lovin shunned the family fortune to take a job teaching preschool. But with her father’s empire on the verge of collapse thanks to a hostile corporate takeover, Judy reluctantly rides to the rescue. Her negotiations bring her face to face with the beast himself, a ruthless tycoon who takes what he wants—and what he wants is Judy. Shocked at her attraction to a man she was prepared to loathe, Judy agrees to his terms: alone time with him at his island getaway. Sexy, smart, and ruggedly untamed, John McFarland lives by his own rules. He’s never met a woman as pure and kind and lovely as Judy, who seems so fearless in the face of the demons that haunt him. As John’s rough edges soften in the magic of the moonlight, and as he learns to listen to his own pounding heart, this beast comes to believe in the one thing he convinced himself he could never have: love. Published by Debbie Macomber Books

When the weather starts to turn chilly, get cozy with two classic tales of romance where falling in love means becoming part of a family. The Playboy and the Widow Unwilling to let go of the memory of her husband, Diana Collins is struggling to raise her two girls on her own. When confirmed bachelor Cliff Howard swoops in and helps her one day, their connection is immediate. But Diana isn''t ready to risk her heart again, and Cliff doesn''t think he''s ready for family ties. Cliff comes to realize that while he may seem like he''s got everything, he doesn''t have what he really wants, and he might find he''s trading in his sports car for a station wagon... Almost an Angel Bethany Stone has been secretly in love with her boss, Joshua Norris, for ages. She''s about to give up--on Joshua and her job--when he asks for her help. Outside the office. Joshua''s ten-year-old is coming to live with him and he has no idea how to raise a precocious little girl. Bethany is happy to help, hoping Joshua might finally see her as more than an assistant. And Joshua discovers that he needs Bethany, in the best way possible. "[Macomber''s] novels are always engaging stories that accurately capture the foibles of real-life men and women with warmth and humor." --Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Gossip columnist Carrie Slayton tracks down reclusive writer Finn Dalton in the Alaskan wilds, discovering that Finn is as mysterious as his reputation suggests before facing a difficult choice between her career and her heart.

Fall in love with the first book in Debbie Macomber''s Deliverance Company series featuring a romance between a mercenary and a widow inexplicably drawn together. Cain McClellan had chosen his lifestyle. He thrived on the challenge, the rush that came with putting his life in incredible danger. No woman, he told himself, could make him feel the way he did after a successful mission--no matter how beautiful she was. So why was he standing on a cold pier like a lovelorn teenager, hoping for a glimpse of Linette Collins? But then he saw her, and the sight of her took his breath away. The wind whipped her lustrous dark hair about her face, and she lifted a finger to wrap a thick strand behind her ear. The smart thing to do was turn around and walk away as fast as his feet would carry him. He''d gotten what he wanted. One last look at her. His curiosity should be satisfied. But even as his mind formulated the thought, Cain knew that just seeing Linette again could never be enough

Inseparable since the sudden loss of their mother as teenagers, Willa and Harper Lakey are perfect opposites. When a handsome customer shows interest in Willa, Harper urges her sister to take a chance on love--something totally out of Willa''s comfort zone. But just as Willa begins to explore the possibilities, Harper receives crushing news that threatens to bring everything to a screeching halt. Though the time ahead may be trying, little do Willa and Harper know that it will bring about the most beautiful rewards.

Now, from Debbie Macomber''s Cedar Cove Cookbook, you can relish in your own home the same superb meals found in Cedar Cove''s households. Charlotte Rhodes, one of the series'' most beloved characters, invites all fans of Cedar Cove, as well as anyone who enjoys classic home cooking, to join her in touring the town''s kitchens as she shares more than 130 of her treasured family recipes. (And she''s got plenty to tell you about the people of Cedar Cove, too!) You''ll find such mouthwatering dishes as: · Justine Gunderson''s Grilled Salmon with Lime-Jalapeño Butter · Teri Polger''s Macaroni and Cheese · Charlotte Rhodes''s Cinnamon Rolls · Olivia Griffin''s Creamy Tarragon Chicken Salad · The Pot Belly Deli''s Broccoli and Cheese Soup in a Bread Bowl · And many more Whether you''ve just discovered the world of Cedar Cove or have devoured all the books, you can now partake of the town''s culinary traditions and cook just like Charlotte, her family and friends!

Dear Jack, I may be a rough, tough solider of fortune but I''ve me my match! I''m in Central America on a no-win job and regretting every minute. A woman named Letty Madden hired me to find her missing brother. I''d figured this prim and proper Texas postmistress would run and hide when I named my price: one night. I was wrong. I swear the woman is my punishment for never giving a damn about anyone. She''s as stubborn as a mule and soft and sweet . . . and hell, buddy, I''m in big trouble. Getting out alive is the least of my problems. Murphy

This classic novel from Debbie Macomber explores the tender, intimate joys of love and family. A driven workaholic, CEO Caasi Crane has sacrificed all semblance of a personal life to build a West Coast hotel empire. But business as usual will never be the same when the man Caasi trusts with all her heart abruptly resigns. Having to replace her top manager isn’t the end of the world—or at least it shouldn’t feel like it. So why does it hurt so much to lose him? Blake Sherrill is excellent at his job, and he knows it. But when it comes to Caasi, the time has come to cut his losses. Ironically, now that he’s ready to walk away from the woman he cares for, he gets what he’s wanted all along: Caasi’s undivided attention. Dragging her into his family’s frenzy of potlucks, weddings, and bouncing babies, Blake tries to teach an isolated career woman about the world outside her lonely penthouse—and a love that’s strong enough last a lifetime. Published by Debbie Macomber Books

It''s a time of change for a small prairie town Buffalo Valley, North Dakota, has a will to survive, to prosper. And the outside world has discovered Buffalo Valley. A large retail conglomerate plans to move in, which would surely destroy the independent businesses...and maybe the town. It''s a season of change for Vaughn Kyle Just out of the army, he''s looking for a life to live--and waits for his reluctant fianc?e to make up her mind. Vaughn decides to visit Buffalo Valley and Hassie Knight. He was named after Hassie''s son who died in Vietnam and she thinks of him as a surrogate son. He arrives at her store one snowy day and finds not Hassie but a young woman named Carrie Hendrickson... Will the season bring peace and joy--to Vaughn and to the town? As he begins to love Carrie, Vaughn questions his feelings for the woman he thought he loved. He wants to stay in Buffalo Valley and fight for its way of life. A life that''s all about friends and...

As the holiday season begins, Laurel McCullough could use some good news. She and her husband, Zach, have been praying for a baby that seems more and more like an impossible dream, and they''ve had to move in with her beloved grandmother, Helen, who''s having trouble taking care of herself. But when Laurel contacts a local home-care organization for help, there are no caregivers available. Then Mrs. Miracle appears at the door. No stranger to lending a helping hand to a family in need, Mrs. Miracle reveals herself to be nothing short of a godsend. Helen''s even convinced she''s an angel! And Laurel can''t help but notice that with Mrs. Miracle''s companionship, Helen is noticeably happier and more engaged, decorating the family Christmas tree and setting up the nativity. In the meantime, Laurel and Zach encounter curious signs, all pointing toward the arrival of a special baby.

Originally published separately: Bride on the loose, c1992; Same time, next year, c1995.

The Christmas basket previously published in 2002.

www.DebbieMacomber.com What do you want most in the world? What Anne Marie Roche wants is to find happiness again. At thirty-eight, she''s childless, a recent widow, alone. She owns a successful bookstore on Seattle''s Blossom Street, but despite her accomplishments, there''s a feeling of emptiness. On Valentine''s Day, Anne Marie and several other widows get together to celebrate…a sense of hope. They each begin a list of twenty wishes—including things they''d always wanted to do but never did. Some of the items on Anne Marie''s list: learning to knit, falling in love again, doing good for someone else. When she volunteers at a local school, an eight-year-old girl named Ellen enters her life. It''s a relationship that becomes far more involving—and far more important—than Anne Marie had ever imagined. As Ellen helps Anne Marie complete her list, they both learn that wishes can come true…but not necessarily in the way you expect!

Beloved #1 bestselling author Macomber presents two classic romances about women who love men who, in turn, love the sea. This volume contains "Navy Wife" and "Navy Blues." Original.

Sometimes, true love needs to be won over! Laughter in the Rain Abby Carpenter has been with predictable, practical Logan Fletcher for a while, but she longs for a little more magic, fireworks and passion.Then she meets Tate, the handsome stranger who might just be the excitement she''s been looking for. Now, Logan needs to fight for Abby--and prove once and for all he loves her. But does an everyday guy like Logan have a chance against a man like Tate? Love by Degree Going back to college, hitting the books. That''s Ellen Cunningham''s new life. Money''s a little tight, and she''s lucky enough to find inexpensive lodging in a house with three young college boys. Ellen plays housemother, a situation that works for everyone--except Reed Morgan, the absentee owner. He''s not pleased to find his house occupied by a bunch of college kids and Ellen. Especially Ellen.

For two couples, rediscovering each other is the path to true love. White Lace and Promises Back in high school, Maggie Kingsbury and Glenn Lambert were best friends. When they meet again years later at their friends'' wedding, both are surprised by the strength of their attraction to each other. After a dizzying night, Glenn makes a spur-of-the-moment proposal--and they get married the very next day! Now they''ll have to figure out if their marriage was a spontaneous mistake or if they''re willing to take a chance on love. Jury of His Peers Caroline Lomax hasn''t seen Ted Thomasson since she was twelve and he was fifteen. Back then, she thought he was obnoxious--and she hasn''t changed her mind. Thrown together on jury duty, though, she starts to realize how much of a connection they really have. Now Ted wants Caroline to see him as more than a boy from her past. He wants her to see him as the man she''ll marry.

"#1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber has inspired readers for years with stories of love and resilience, creating characters who overcome all obstacles to become their best selves. Now Debbie shares the gifts and opportunities she has experienced as a lifelong journaler, guiding you through the process of cultivating your own creativity and well-being through journaling. Inside, you will find the perfect tools to jump-start your journey to a more mindful life: -intuitive prompts and exercises to spark self-reflection -insightful quotes and beautiful illustrations to inspire your creative side -step-by-step guidance, words of wisdom, and encouragement from Debbie herself!"--

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Savor the magic of the season in a Christmas novel filled with warmth, humor, the promise of love, and a dash of unexpected adventure. Ashley Davison, a graduate student in California, desperately wants to spend the holidays with her family in Seattle. Dashiell Sutherland, a former army intelligence officer, has a job interview in Seattle and must arrive by December 23. Though frantic to book a last-minute flight out of San Francisco, both are out of luck: Every flight is full, and there’s only one rental car available. Ashley and Dash reluctantly decide to share the car, but neither anticipates the wild ride ahead. At first they drive in silence, but forced into close quarters Ashley and Dash can’t help but open up. Not only do they find they have a lot in common, but there’s even a spark of romance in the air. Their feelings catch them off guard—never before has either been so excited about a first meeting. But the two are in for more twists and turns along the way as they rescue a lost puppy, run into petty thieves, and even get caught up in a case of mistaken identity. Though Ashley and Dash may never reach Seattle in time for Christmas, the season is still full of surprises—and their greatest wishes may yet come true. This ebook edition features an excerpt from Debbie Macomber’s Any Dream Will Do. Praise for Dashing Through the Snow and Debbie Macomber “Wonderful and heartwarming . . . full of fun, laughter, and love.”—Romance Reviews Today “This Christmas romance from [Debbie] Macomber is both sweet and sincere.”—Library Journal “There’s just the right amount of holiday cheer. . . . This road-trip romance is full of high jinks and the kooky characters Macomber does so well.”—RT Book Reviews “Macomber’s name is almost as closely linked to Christmas reading as that of Charles Dickens.”—The Romance Dish, on Mr. Miracle

Since moving to Cedar Cove, Jo Marie Rose has truly started to feel at home. Now it''s springtime, and Jo Marie is eager to finish the most recent addition to her inn. In memory of her late husband, Paul, she has designed a beautiful rose garden for the property and enlisted handyman Mark Taylor to help realize it. At the same time, she welcomes her latest guests: Annie Newton arrives in town to orchestrate her grandparents'' fiftieth wedding anniversary celebration but struggles to move on from a broken engagement. The there is high-powered businesswoman Mary Smith whose serious illness compels her to return to Cedar Cove to find her lost love from long ago.

Down-home charm and romance on the ranch. A Little Bit Country Stranded on the side of a country road with a broken-down car, Rorie Campbell is grateful when horse rancher Clay Franklin comes to her rescue. Stuck in the quirky small town, Rorie gets to know Clay, and she quickly starts to fall for the gruff, tough cowboy. Can a city girl make it work with a country man? Clay certainly thinks so. But their situation is...complicated. Clay and Rorie will have to sort out their feelings if they''re going to be together. Country Bride Kate Logan is understandably devastated when her former fiancé marries someone else instead. At the wedding, after one glass of champagne, she spontaneously--foolishly--proposes to her longtime friend Luke Rivers. And Luke agrees. The rancher is a man of his word, and though Kate thinks they''re making a mistake, he will not renege on his promise. Not only does he refuse to break the engagement, he insists that Kate actually loves him--and he''ll prove it. "Romantic, warm, and a breeze to read." --Kirkus Reviews on Cottage by the Sea

We call her the "Official Storyteller of Christmas"—but Debbie Macomber is more than that. She''s someone who loves the holiday and all its traditions. Now she shares more than one hundred of her favorite recipes to help you enjoy this most joyous of seasons. You''ll also find easy-to-follow instructions for crafts, decorations and gift wrapping—everything you need to create a beautiful and festive holiday. What makes this cookbook unique is Debbie''s personal memories and observations. Join her as she reminisces about traditions past and present, and discover the craft ideas she herself uses. As she says, "The holidays are about being with others. They''re about celebrating and sustaining our personal community of family and friends." In this beautifully illustrated book, she shows you how to serve a memorable meal, whether it''s a sit-down Christmas dinner for a crowd, entertaining a group of friends at an open house or tea, or spending time with your children or grandchildren baking cookies and making gifts.

From wedding plans to revenge plots, and to finding love again... Three Brides, No Groom When three friends meet again at their fifteen-year class reunion, they reveal that their lives have taken unexpected directions. Back in their college days, Gretchen Wise had been engaged to a top law student. Carol Furness, head cheerleader, had said yes to the school''s football hero. And Maddie Cobain was the girl who''d fallen for a professor. Now the three of them gather where promises were made...and broken. As the women reconnect, they share stories of disappointment, rediscovery and, finally, new love. BONUS: An Alaskan Wedding by Jennifer Snow Aurora Klein is back in Wild River to serve as maid of honor at her best friend''s wedding, but how can she keep herself together when the town holds so many memories of her ex-boyfriend Tyler Forrester--who also happens to be the best man?

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER * Debbie Macomber brings us to the Alaskan wilderness for a magical Christmas tale about finding love where it''s least expected. "Picture-perfect . . . this charmer will please Macomber fans and newcomers alike."--Publishers Weekly Before beginning her dream job as sous chef in one of Seattle''s hottest new restaurants, Josie Avery takes a summer position cooking at a lakeside lodge in the remote Alaskan town of Ponder. Josie falls for the rustic charms of the local community--including Jack Corcoran, the crotchety keeper of Ponder''s famed sourdough starter, and, in particular, the quiet and intense Palmer Saxon, a famed master swordsmith. Josie and Palmer become close during the long Alaskan summer days, but Josie knows that, come fall, she''ll be returning to reality and the career she''s worked so hard for. Palmer, on the other hand, would like nothing better than to make Josie his wife and to keep her in Ponder. But Josie can''t imagine abandoning her mother back in the Emerald City and sacrificing her career to stay in this isolated town--not even for a man she''s quickly coming to love. Fate has other plans. Josie misses the last boat out of town before winter sets in, stranding her in Ponder and putting her dream job at risk. As the holidays approach, Josie and Palmer must grapple with the complications that arise when dreams confront reality, and the Christmas magic that can happen when they put their faith in love. Debbie Macomber is at her best in this beautiful holiday story about the far journeys we travel to find a place to call home. Praise for Alaskan Holiday "[A] tender romance lightly brushed with holiday magic."--Library Journal "[A] thoroughly charming holiday romance."--Booklist

Corrie McAfee and her husband, a private investigator, solve a mystery from their past, while their daughter Linette moves back home and opens a new medical clinic and finds unexpected romance. Reprint.

Lorraine Dancy embarks on a life of adventure, danger, and passion when she finds her long-lost father, gets framed for stealing an invaluable relic, and flees to Mexico, where she meets sexy renegade Jack Keller.

"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"--

Summer Breezes by Debbie Macomber will be available May 25, 2021. Preorder your copy today

Curl up with three heartwarming stories and let the spark of romance brighten the holiday season THE FORGETFUL BRIDE Caitlin Marshall is stuck spending the holidays with Joe Rockwell. Her childhood friend is still a terrible tease, claiming that he and Cait are married. Oh, sure, they had a pretend ceremony when she was eight--but now it would seem that Joe wants to make their relationship into something real. SUGAR AND SPICE Librarian Jayne Gilbert needs a man she can bring to her high school reunion. So, naturally, Jayne turns to a book: How to Pick Up a Man. And it works, even if she attracts the attention of good-looking Riley Chambers only because she''s carrying that book, not because she followed its advice! FRIENDS--AND THEN SOME Lily Morrissey decides it''s time to find a husband, preferably one who can look after her. It''s a strictly practical decision, so she enlists the help of her best friend, Jake Carson, in the Great Husband Search. But then Lily''s feelings for Jake start to change... Could they become more than friends?

Plus a bonus short story: The farmer takes a wife.

Gossip runs rampant in the quaint town of Cedar Cove when a Vietnam veteran dies in Peggy Beldon''s Bed and Breakfast, Jon Bowman and Maryellen Sherman prepare to get married, and several older widows find love and a little bit of scandal.