It's Better This Way

A Novel

By: Debbie Macomber

Narrated by: Thérèse Plummer

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • After her marriage ends, one woman’s struggle to pick up the pieces finally leads to a new beginning—but is the past truly behind her? In this poignant novel, #1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber explores the powerful intersections of love and family.

“This deeply emotional tale proves it’s never too late for love.”—Publishers Weekly (starred review)

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. The couple’s 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’s become their stepmother. Distraught after selling the family home, Julia moves 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 Wilson 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 an unexpected love. However, they soon realize that combining families proves to be a challenge, even though their four children are adults.

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.

Critic reviews

“Macomber has a firm grasp on issues that will resonate with readers of domestic fiction. Well-drawn characters and plotting—coupled with strong romantic subplots and striking coincidences—will keep readers rooting for forgiveness, hope and true love to conquer all.”—Kathleen Gerard, blogger at Reading Between the Lines

“Macomber keeps her well-shaded, believable characters at the heart of this seamlessly plotted novel as she probes the nuances of familial relationships and the agelessness of romance. This deeply emotional tale proves it’s never too late for love.”—Publishers Weekly (starred review)

Could not stop listening

I love Debbie Macomber and Therese Plummer so I knew this book had to be a winner.
It is so nice to have an author write about characters that are mature and it is not all about sex.
Great story and a great narrator.

loved it

excellent narration. lovedthe story, characters and ending. read until finished. always enjoy Debbies books. Look forward to more of the same.

Best in awhile!!

The story was terrific! The reader was fantastic! I would recommend this book highly! Enjoy

Excellent book!

Loved it! Characters were so engaging. It was easy to be quickly drawn into the story.

Love Debbie

Another wonderful story. Simple themes but oh so relevant. All of us are in this book at times ☘️