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This Matter of Marriage
If I want to get married and have a family (and I do), it's time for a plan!-from Hallie McCarthy's diary The alarm on Hallie's biological clock is buzzing away. She's hitting the big three-0 and there's no prospect of marriage, no man in sight. But Hallie's an organized, goal-setting kind of person. She gives herself a year to meet Mr. Knight in Shining Armor. But all her dates are disasters. (There's the cheapskate and the sex fiend and-well, never mind.) Too bad she can't just fall for her good-looking neighbor, Steve Marris. He's definitely not her type. Anyway, Steve's busy trying to win back his ex-wife, Mary Lynn, who's busy getting married-but not to Steve. Life would be so much simpler if he could fall for someone else. Like ... Hallie. They're friends, though-and sometimes friends become lovers. Sometimes friends become more.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 1997
1,045 people are currently reading
2,728 people want to read
About the author
Debbie Macomber
894Ìýbooks20kÌýfollowersDebbie 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.
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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 264 reviews
July 26, 2017
This was my first Debbie Macomber book (audio) and I enjoyed her writing style. Hallie and her bff Donalee are tired of being single so they decide to make marriage their goal. And the husband hunt begins...so many dates from hell and LOL moments. Hallie even had a first date rate her! I was furious at this guy! The book was full of humor and charm. The just divorced Steve moves in next door to Hallie and he is the perfect shoulder for her to cry on about all her dating foes, but he is her type?
If you want a charming feel good story (that is somewhat predictable), you might enjoy this one too! I will definitely be seeking out more novels from this author.
If you want a charming feel good story (that is somewhat predictable), you might enjoy this one too! I will definitely be seeking out more novels from this author.
December 22, 2015
I really enjoyed Hallie McCarthy, Steve Marris and THIS MATTER OF MARRIAGE. I whipped through this romance in less than 24 hours. The storyline provided just the right amount of humor to sweeten the tension between these two unlikely friends.
My 'Tagged' Review:
Hero Was Married Before~
'It wasn't as if the news would come as any great shock. Steve knew his ex-wife was dating again, although he'd chosen to ignore what that meant.'
Children Involved~ "Next week is Take Your Daughter to Work day," Meagan announced. "Mom's not working because she's in school, so I asked Dad about it and he said I could go to the office with him, but I don't want to be a machinist. I'm kind of interested in art and I'd like to see what you do, Hallie. Can I spend the day with you?"
"That would be wonderful. Are you sure your dad won't mind?" Hallie walked over to the door and watched as Meagan excitedly told her father she had agreed to take her to Artistic License. "You sure Meagan won't be a bother?" he called. "Positive."
Hallie could see his relief. "I owe you one neighbor."
Ahhh, Those Secondary Characters~
Hallie's BFF. "What's with you and your neighbor?" Donalee asked. "With us? Nothing. We're friends. He's a great guy, you know, but he's hung up on his ex-wife." "Ever thought about getting together with him?" "Nope," Hallie answered. "I like Steve, don't get me wrong, but he's not my type." "Tell me, what's your type?" I want a man who'll love me, who'll appreciate me for the woman I am. Someone who is generous and honest. A man of integrity, who values family and commitment." Donalee looked at her. "Hmm. Does such a man really exist?"
Friendship~
'The ringing woke Steve out of a sound sleep. He grabbed his jeans and pulled them on and hobbled into the living room. He had no idea who was calling on him so late at night. "I'm sorry to wake you," Hallie said, her eyes desperate in the pale porch light. A scruffy-looking fellow hovered behind her and a taxi stood parked in her driveway. "Could I borrow twenty dollars?" He stared at her. "Just until tomorrow afternoon?" "Sure," he said, and reached in his hip pocket for his wallet, extracting a bill.
"Thank you," she breathed, then whirled around to give the taxi driver his money. "I told you you'd get paid!" she said fiercely. She waited until the driver had left before explaining. "Really, it's not as bad as it looks. I..I quit carrying my credit cards and didn't have my ATM card with me", she explained, rushing the words. "It took all my cash to pay for my half of the dinner. "It was just a date gone bad. It was arranged by a friend. A former friend." She filled in a few of the details: the questions, the restaurant bill, the car. He listened sympathetically, nodding now and then, marveling at her ability to laugh at her situation.
"Don't let it get you down," he advised. "I won't. It'd take more than a pudgy accountant to do that." "Good girl." He waited until she was all the way inside her house before closing the door. Only then, did he allow himself to laugh. The lady had grit.'
Dated Material~
'This wasn't going to work. Steve knew it the moment he saw Hallie grip the bowling ball and step in front of the pins. The first time he watched her throw the ball, he was reminded of an old Fred Flintstone cartoon. It looked, honest to God, as if she'd race down the alley on tiptoe.'
Snarky Humor~
'She responded to his knock by calling faintly for him to come inside. Steve opened the door to discover her sprawled on the sofa amid a conglomeration of pillows and blankets. Dressed in an old robe, she lay facedown, her arm dangling over the edge, knuckles brushing the carpet. "You look like hell," he said, "Are you sick or something?" "You don't miss much, do you?" She didn't lift her head. "My, my, are we a little testy? And, what, by the way, is your front door doing open? This isn't Little House On The Prairie, you know. When was the last time you ate?" "Please," she whispered miserably, "don't talk about food. I haven't been able to keep anything down for two days."
He stuck the dirty dishes in the dishwasher and wiped off the counter before bringing her a cup of tea. "Is there anything else I can do for you?" "Would you mind helping me into the bathroom? I tried to get up earlier but I felt lightheaded." "Of course." She sat up and he saw that her skin was pale, her hair on one side had gone completely flat, and the upholstery from her sofa had left a floral imprint on her cheek. She swayed when she stood upright and he slid his arm around her waist to steady her. He guided her down the hallway and turned on the bathroom light.
"Would you move the scale away from the wall for me? "The scale?", he asked incredulously. "I want to weigh myself." Steve was certain he misunderstood. "Why in the name of heaven would you want to do that?" She gave him a look that suggested that the answer couldn't be more obvious. "To see how much weight I've lost. I haven't had anything to eat for two days except juice and crackers." Steve knew better than to argue. He crouched down to pull the scale away from the wall. "There." She hesitated, "You can't look." "I beg your pardon?" "Turn around." "For the love of.." But Steve did as she requested and turned his back. He heard Hallie step on the scale, and then a pathetically feeble cry of triumph. "I take it you've lost?" ""Yes," she answered in a whisper. "Isn't that wonderful?"
Sssssss-The Sexual Tension~
Sharing cars, after taking his kids and their friends to a drive-in movie. 'She turned to Steve. "Thank you for being my friend," she whispered.
"Thank you for being mine." And then he leaned over and kissed her. His mouth grazed hers and lingered. Hallie kissed him back, increasing the pressure. She felt the sexual energy immediately and so, apparently, did Steve. He bolted upright and looked at her long and hard. She studied him, too. It was as if all the oxygen in the car was suddenly gone. Neither seemed capable of breathing, let alone talking. The only illumination came from the screen and a solitary light by the refreshment stand but it was enough for Hallie to see Steve's face. His eyes were wary, as if to say he wasn't sure about this. For that matter, Hallie wasn't sure how she felt either.
"Hallie?" "Yes?" "What just happened?"
This was a wonderful shimmering romance that scattered its zest onto everything in its path.
My 'Tagged' Review:
Hero Was Married Before~
'It wasn't as if the news would come as any great shock. Steve knew his ex-wife was dating again, although he'd chosen to ignore what that meant.'
Children Involved~ "Next week is Take Your Daughter to Work day," Meagan announced. "Mom's not working because she's in school, so I asked Dad about it and he said I could go to the office with him, but I don't want to be a machinist. I'm kind of interested in art and I'd like to see what you do, Hallie. Can I spend the day with you?"
"That would be wonderful. Are you sure your dad won't mind?" Hallie walked over to the door and watched as Meagan excitedly told her father she had agreed to take her to Artistic License. "You sure Meagan won't be a bother?" he called. "Positive."
Hallie could see his relief. "I owe you one neighbor."
Ahhh, Those Secondary Characters~
Hallie's BFF. "What's with you and your neighbor?" Donalee asked. "With us? Nothing. We're friends. He's a great guy, you know, but he's hung up on his ex-wife." "Ever thought about getting together with him?" "Nope," Hallie answered. "I like Steve, don't get me wrong, but he's not my type." "Tell me, what's your type?" I want a man who'll love me, who'll appreciate me for the woman I am. Someone who is generous and honest. A man of integrity, who values family and commitment." Donalee looked at her. "Hmm. Does such a man really exist?"
Friendship~
'The ringing woke Steve out of a sound sleep. He grabbed his jeans and pulled them on and hobbled into the living room. He had no idea who was calling on him so late at night. "I'm sorry to wake you," Hallie said, her eyes desperate in the pale porch light. A scruffy-looking fellow hovered behind her and a taxi stood parked in her driveway. "Could I borrow twenty dollars?" He stared at her. "Just until tomorrow afternoon?" "Sure," he said, and reached in his hip pocket for his wallet, extracting a bill.
"Thank you," she breathed, then whirled around to give the taxi driver his money. "I told you you'd get paid!" she said fiercely. She waited until the driver had left before explaining. "Really, it's not as bad as it looks. I..I quit carrying my credit cards and didn't have my ATM card with me", she explained, rushing the words. "It took all my cash to pay for my half of the dinner. "It was just a date gone bad. It was arranged by a friend. A former friend." She filled in a few of the details: the questions, the restaurant bill, the car. He listened sympathetically, nodding now and then, marveling at her ability to laugh at her situation.
"Don't let it get you down," he advised. "I won't. It'd take more than a pudgy accountant to do that." "Good girl." He waited until she was all the way inside her house before closing the door. Only then, did he allow himself to laugh. The lady had grit.'
Dated Material~
'This wasn't going to work. Steve knew it the moment he saw Hallie grip the bowling ball and step in front of the pins. The first time he watched her throw the ball, he was reminded of an old Fred Flintstone cartoon. It looked, honest to God, as if she'd race down the alley on tiptoe.'
Snarky Humor~
'She responded to his knock by calling faintly for him to come inside. Steve opened the door to discover her sprawled on the sofa amid a conglomeration of pillows and blankets. Dressed in an old robe, she lay facedown, her arm dangling over the edge, knuckles brushing the carpet. "You look like hell," he said, "Are you sick or something?" "You don't miss much, do you?" She didn't lift her head. "My, my, are we a little testy? And, what, by the way, is your front door doing open? This isn't Little House On The Prairie, you know. When was the last time you ate?" "Please," she whispered miserably, "don't talk about food. I haven't been able to keep anything down for two days."
He stuck the dirty dishes in the dishwasher and wiped off the counter before bringing her a cup of tea. "Is there anything else I can do for you?" "Would you mind helping me into the bathroom? I tried to get up earlier but I felt lightheaded." "Of course." She sat up and he saw that her skin was pale, her hair on one side had gone completely flat, and the upholstery from her sofa had left a floral imprint on her cheek. She swayed when she stood upright and he slid his arm around her waist to steady her. He guided her down the hallway and turned on the bathroom light.
"Would you move the scale away from the wall for me? "The scale?", he asked incredulously. "I want to weigh myself." Steve was certain he misunderstood. "Why in the name of heaven would you want to do that?" She gave him a look that suggested that the answer couldn't be more obvious. "To see how much weight I've lost. I haven't had anything to eat for two days except juice and crackers." Steve knew better than to argue. He crouched down to pull the scale away from the wall. "There." She hesitated, "You can't look." "I beg your pardon?" "Turn around." "For the love of.." But Steve did as she requested and turned his back. He heard Hallie step on the scale, and then a pathetically feeble cry of triumph. "I take it you've lost?" ""Yes," she answered in a whisper. "Isn't that wonderful?"
Sssssss-The Sexual Tension~
Sharing cars, after taking his kids and their friends to a drive-in movie. 'She turned to Steve. "Thank you for being my friend," she whispered.
"Thank you for being mine." And then he leaned over and kissed her. His mouth grazed hers and lingered. Hallie kissed him back, increasing the pressure. She felt the sexual energy immediately and so, apparently, did Steve. He bolted upright and looked at her long and hard. She studied him, too. It was as if all the oxygen in the car was suddenly gone. Neither seemed capable of breathing, let alone talking. The only illumination came from the screen and a solitary light by the refreshment stand but it was enough for Hallie to see Steve's face. His eyes were wary, as if to say he wasn't sure about this. For that matter, Hallie wasn't sure how she felt either.
"Hallie?" "Yes?" "What just happened?"
This was a wonderful shimmering romance that scattered its zest onto everything in its path.
September 17, 2018
You know when you are going through your Audible list or Kindle and find a book you don’t remember buying? Well that was me the other day and I thought I should listen/read this before buying anymore. So here we go diving into this book.
Surprise number 1 � Not reading the synopsis again I assumed the book was a regency romance since the emphasis was on marriage. It is not, it is a little dated being written in the 90s but that is 1990 and not 1890
Surprise number 2 - Initially I liked Hallie despite her one goal of getting married. Hailie, deciding she has focused on her career for too long wants to finally find a husband. How hard could it be so she sets it up in her goal planner that this is the year she will find a husband. She has some extremely disastrous dates and I felt for her. But the focus was always blindingly on finding a husband and not on finding someone she loved. Later in the story Hallie does find someone to love but is so focused on the marriage issue and rushing it at the speed of light that she just annoyed me.
Surprise number 3 - This started out pretty good for me overall possibly a four-star read. But as the story progressed I got more and more upset with the main characters and their childness. Steve and Hallie had some manufactured drama for a little bit that drove me a little nuts and by the end I didn’t care. I finished it because I couldn’t bring myself to DNF at 80%
This Matter of Marriage has some selling points in the friendship to love category. Steve was overall a pretty nice guy and I felt bad that he was trying to hard to put his family back together again after a divorce he didn’t want. Hallie started off as a fun character but then just got on my nerves with her NEED to find a husband. My last complaint is that the only sexual hook up we read about in the book is not between Hallie and Steve but Hallie’s best friend. After an entire book a sexual tension�.nothing but kissing between the main characters on page.
Well at least that is one book cleaned out which means I can buy something new.
Surprise number 1 � Not reading the synopsis again I assumed the book was a regency romance since the emphasis was on marriage. It is not, it is a little dated being written in the 90s but that is 1990 and not 1890
Surprise number 2 - Initially I liked Hallie despite her one goal of getting married. Hailie, deciding she has focused on her career for too long wants to finally find a husband. How hard could it be so she sets it up in her goal planner that this is the year she will find a husband. She has some extremely disastrous dates and I felt for her. But the focus was always blindingly on finding a husband and not on finding someone she loved. Later in the story Hallie does find someone to love but is so focused on the marriage issue and rushing it at the speed of light that she just annoyed me.
Surprise number 3 - This started out pretty good for me overall possibly a four-star read. But as the story progressed I got more and more upset with the main characters and their childness. Steve and Hallie had some manufactured drama for a little bit that drove me a little nuts and by the end I didn’t care. I finished it because I couldn’t bring myself to DNF at 80%
This Matter of Marriage has some selling points in the friendship to love category. Steve was overall a pretty nice guy and I felt bad that he was trying to hard to put his family back together again after a divorce he didn’t want. Hallie started off as a fun character but then just got on my nerves with her NEED to find a husband. My last complaint is that the only sexual hook up we read about in the book is not between Hallie and Steve but Hallie’s best friend. After an entire book a sexual tension�.nothing but kissing between the main characters on page.
Well at least that is one book cleaned out which means I can buy something new.
June 5, 2016
Rating: 3.5 stars.
This book was a fun read. The story line was entertaining, very humorous and it kept me interested right up until the very end. The biggest let down for me was the sexual content. Most readers in today's society would probably laugh and disagree with me, not thinking much of it, but for me, it spoilt an otherwise well written and enjoyable story.
Hallie McCarthy was a successful graphic designer and business woman. She was turning thirty and thought it was time to find herself a husband and start a family. Her best friend Donnalee had been married in her late teens and was emotionally scarred by divorce. She too thought it was time for her and her friend to find themselves committed partners to share their lives. So they both started searching for men to date. Hallie met some very interesting characters resulting in some very funny dating situations.
Steve Marris was a 35 year old handsome, athletic, divorced father of two young children. He was still very much in love with his ex-wife Mary Lynn, who had also been his first love. He bought the condominium next to Hallie's and his children stayed with him on weekends. He was a devoted father and held onto hope that he would one day reunite with his wife. He never wanted the divorce but when his ex-wife announced she would re-marry, he reluctantly had to learn to let her go.
Steve developed a special friendship with Hallie, and his children learned to love and trust her. Hallie and Steve were falling in love without either of them realizing it. There were some laugh out loud moments between the two of them.
I found the characters very real. I could relate to Hallie and some of her experiences and emotions. Her obsession with her weight was spot on - that is how most women feel about themselves (unfortunately). Steve was both likeable and frustrating. Likeable because he was a "one woman" kind of man. He had wanted to stay married and take care of his family. He was always there for his children too. He was not on the prowl for one night stands. I liked that about him. He was frustrating because of his stubbornness and (understandable) fear of another commitment.
Overall, the book was a fun read. If the sex scenes and frequent sexual references were omitted, I would have given this book a 4.5 stars.
This book was a fun read. The story line was entertaining, very humorous and it kept me interested right up until the very end. The biggest let down for me was the sexual content. Most readers in today's society would probably laugh and disagree with me, not thinking much of it, but for me, it spoilt an otherwise well written and enjoyable story.
Hallie McCarthy was a successful graphic designer and business woman. She was turning thirty and thought it was time to find herself a husband and start a family. Her best friend Donnalee had been married in her late teens and was emotionally scarred by divorce. She too thought it was time for her and her friend to find themselves committed partners to share their lives. So they both started searching for men to date. Hallie met some very interesting characters resulting in some very funny dating situations.
Steve Marris was a 35 year old handsome, athletic, divorced father of two young children. He was still very much in love with his ex-wife Mary Lynn, who had also been his first love. He bought the condominium next to Hallie's and his children stayed with him on weekends. He was a devoted father and held onto hope that he would one day reunite with his wife. He never wanted the divorce but when his ex-wife announced she would re-marry, he reluctantly had to learn to let her go.
Steve developed a special friendship with Hallie, and his children learned to love and trust her. Hallie and Steve were falling in love without either of them realizing it. There were some laugh out loud moments between the two of them.
I found the characters very real. I could relate to Hallie and some of her experiences and emotions. Her obsession with her weight was spot on - that is how most women feel about themselves (unfortunately). Steve was both likeable and frustrating. Likeable because he was a "one woman" kind of man. He had wanted to stay married and take care of his family. He was always there for his children too. He was not on the prowl for one night stands. I liked that about him. He was frustrating because of his stubbornness and (understandable) fear of another commitment.
Overall, the book was a fun read. If the sex scenes and frequent sexual references were omitted, I would have given this book a 4.5 stars.
February 22, 2008
My Take:
Sometimes there’s a novel you just enjoy, and you have no idea why. This Matter of Marriage was exactly that for me. The writing style was more women’s fiction than romance, which usually turns me off of a book, and I can’t remember anything particularly special about it, but damn, I sure did enjoy it.
Perhaps what had me hooked from the start was my mental image of the protagonists. For one thing, they were realistic, which was a breath of fresh air. As much as I love my over the top knight-in-shining-armor, there is nothing more entertaining or uplifting than the occasional (semi)realistic romance.
As her thirtieth birthday approaches, Hallie McCarthy makes the decision- to get married. Now all she has to do is find the groom. I said I liked her, not that she was especially stable. Steve Marris has just gone through a divorce and is determined to get his wife back and keep his family together. Read between the lines: he’s obsessed with his ex and is using the kids as an excuse to cling to their failed relationships. He’s definitely not stable.
Here’s were my lovely mental images come in. Hallie is described as having dark, short, curly hair, but in my mind all I could get was this over-bleached haywire perm, magenta sweats and leg warmers. Romantic, huh? And Steve� skinny, pasty, with thick glasses and a receding hairline. For the life of me I could not image him being good in the sack, a bad trait for a romance protagonist to lack. As the plot proceeded Hallie and Steve settled into themselves, but man were those first hundred pages one hilarious romp in my head.
Ok, ok, I lied somewhat. When I say it’s a realistic romance I mean Hallie and Steve are people you could find on the street, in the grocery store, your therapists waiting room. The plot itself gets over the top at times. But what can I say- by the time I was sucked in I had already begun to like Hallie and Steve besides their obvious flaws, quirks, and abnormalities, and couldn’t help but flip page after page to get closer and closer to that happy ending.
What to Watch Out For:
The plot takes forever to get moving. For two thirds of the novel we watch as Steve is a idiot and chases after his manipulating ex, and a desperate Hallie goes on a series of disastrous, albeit hilarious, blind dates. And of course, there are the kids-who-know-better-than-thou. Though one would assume that young children would have trouble dealing with their parents divorce and their mother’s subsequent remarriage, there is only one, count it, one, scene where they express it. The rest of the time they’re going around saying things like, “Don’t you think Hallie would make a good mom?�, and “Hallie, will you please marry our Dad?�. Yes, that’s definitely what they would be doing. Meanwhile, tension is supposedly building between Hallie and Steve. When, I don’t know. I didn’t feel it. There was some spark after they were together, but I really didn’t feel the tension before hand. The constant reiterations of “…but we’re just friends� seemed rather true. The one thing about the book that did annoy me was the speed at which everyone got married. I understand the main characters getting married after a short courting period. That’s fairly common. I even understand the best friend getting engaged after a matter of days, but let me go through the relationship timelines real quick. Don’t worry, it won’t take long. Steve proposed to his first wife on their first date, Hallie and Steve get engaged after barely a month of being together, Donnalee (Hallie’s best friend) married he first husband after a short courting period, she gets engaged again later after dating the guy a month, she meets Todd (Steve’s best friend) and gets engaged to him after about a week, Todd married his first wife after just as short a dating period. Does nobody have a normal relationship first? No wonder three of the four (the one’s who had been married) all got DIVORCED!
Sometimes there’s a novel you just enjoy, and you have no idea why. This Matter of Marriage was exactly that for me. The writing style was more women’s fiction than romance, which usually turns me off of a book, and I can’t remember anything particularly special about it, but damn, I sure did enjoy it.
Perhaps what had me hooked from the start was my mental image of the protagonists. For one thing, they were realistic, which was a breath of fresh air. As much as I love my over the top knight-in-shining-armor, there is nothing more entertaining or uplifting than the occasional (semi)realistic romance.
As her thirtieth birthday approaches, Hallie McCarthy makes the decision- to get married. Now all she has to do is find the groom. I said I liked her, not that she was especially stable. Steve Marris has just gone through a divorce and is determined to get his wife back and keep his family together. Read between the lines: he’s obsessed with his ex and is using the kids as an excuse to cling to their failed relationships. He’s definitely not stable.
Here’s were my lovely mental images come in. Hallie is described as having dark, short, curly hair, but in my mind all I could get was this over-bleached haywire perm, magenta sweats and leg warmers. Romantic, huh? And Steve� skinny, pasty, with thick glasses and a receding hairline. For the life of me I could not image him being good in the sack, a bad trait for a romance protagonist to lack. As the plot proceeded Hallie and Steve settled into themselves, but man were those first hundred pages one hilarious romp in my head.
Ok, ok, I lied somewhat. When I say it’s a realistic romance I mean Hallie and Steve are people you could find on the street, in the grocery store, your therapists waiting room. The plot itself gets over the top at times. But what can I say- by the time I was sucked in I had already begun to like Hallie and Steve besides their obvious flaws, quirks, and abnormalities, and couldn’t help but flip page after page to get closer and closer to that happy ending.
What to Watch Out For:
The plot takes forever to get moving. For two thirds of the novel we watch as Steve is a idiot and chases after his manipulating ex, and a desperate Hallie goes on a series of disastrous, albeit hilarious, blind dates. And of course, there are the kids-who-know-better-than-thou. Though one would assume that young children would have trouble dealing with their parents divorce and their mother’s subsequent remarriage, there is only one, count it, one, scene where they express it. The rest of the time they’re going around saying things like, “Don’t you think Hallie would make a good mom?�, and “Hallie, will you please marry our Dad?�. Yes, that’s definitely what they would be doing. Meanwhile, tension is supposedly building between Hallie and Steve. When, I don’t know. I didn’t feel it. There was some spark after they were together, but I really didn’t feel the tension before hand. The constant reiterations of “…but we’re just friends� seemed rather true. The one thing about the book that did annoy me was the speed at which everyone got married. I understand the main characters getting married after a short courting period. That’s fairly common. I even understand the best friend getting engaged after a matter of days, but let me go through the relationship timelines real quick. Don’t worry, it won’t take long. Steve proposed to his first wife on their first date, Hallie and Steve get engaged after barely a month of being together, Donnalee (Hallie’s best friend) married he first husband after a short courting period, she gets engaged again later after dating the guy a month, she meets Todd (Steve’s best friend) and gets engaged to him after about a week, Todd married his first wife after just as short a dating period. Does nobody have a normal relationship first? No wonder three of the four (the one’s who had been married) all got DIVORCED!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2020
Rating 3.75 stars
Even though this was a cheesy sweet story. There is so much goofy, crazy fun moments.
Even though this was a cheesy sweet story. There is so much goofy, crazy fun moments.
January 12, 2010
I loved this book! It was one of those fantastic feel good romance books that just sweeps you away. This is my second Debbie Macomber novel and I loved it. The characters are real and down to earth and it's full of situations that you can easily relate to.
Hallie and Steve were real people who lived a real world and had real problems. Steve had been through a divorce that had completely blind-sided him and now shared his two kids with his ex-wife. He wants nothing more than to get his life back. Hallie is about to turn 30 and realised that while she was busy building a business and career she had neglected her personal life. Hallie wants to get married and have children so she makes a plan. Love however doesn't often work to a plan and this book is the story of Hallie's mishaps.
I don't read a lot of Contemporary Romance but I must say that I really love Debbie Macomber's books. This is the second book I've read of hers and they are light-hearted easy reads. I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good romance.
Hallie and Steve were real people who lived a real world and had real problems. Steve had been through a divorce that had completely blind-sided him and now shared his two kids with his ex-wife. He wants nothing more than to get his life back. Hallie is about to turn 30 and realised that while she was busy building a business and career she had neglected her personal life. Hallie wants to get married and have children so she makes a plan. Love however doesn't often work to a plan and this book is the story of Hallie's mishaps.
I don't read a lot of Contemporary Romance but I must say that I really love Debbie Macomber's books. This is the second book I've read of hers and they are light-hearted easy reads. I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good romance.
May 31, 2017
I was looking for an easy read, but there isn't much to this book. So repetitive that by the time the couple gets together, I simply didn't care. Boring lather, rinse, repeat story with simple, cliché characters.
June 17, 2020
Mild-sexual-situations-references, but is still one of my favorite romances ~ This Matter of Marriage by Debbie Macomber The bad dates and situations described are "milk out your nose" hilarious! I would not advise eating or drinking while reading this book!
January 28, 2018
Super predictable, but had really likable characters. I loved the audiobook because the narrator is awesome.
March 25, 2019
Really enjoyed, but felt that the ending was kinda rushed. Took most of the book to build the story, and only a couple of pages to actually tell it.
April 21, 2019
This Matter of Marriage is by Debbie Macomber. This book is just as good as all the other books by Macomber. This one deals with marriage and blind dating. The characters are realistic and well-developed and the plot it easy to understand and follow. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep you interested in turning to the next page. It does tend to be just a little long and the romance drags on in parts; but it is still good.
Hallie McCarthy had her life planned out. She was going to make a go of her business and not let anything or anyone get in the way. She was organized and goal-orientated. Now as she turned thirty, she realized she wanted to get married and have a family as well as her business. For her, to do this, she simply had to have a plan and to follow it. She gave herself a year to find a man, get married, and get pregnant. Definitely in that order. She told her best friend, Donnalee about her plan and Donnalee decided it was time for her to follow that plan as well. Donnalee decided to sign up on a dating site to find her perfect man. She thought the two thousand dollars would be worth it. It was for her. Her first date was with Sanford and he seemed to be perfect. Hallie was jealous at the speed with which Donnalee and Sanford fell in love. Maybe there was something to this dating site.
Hallie resisted the site because of the money at first; but seeing Donnalee happy, she decided to try it. What a joke on her. The first date ended when her date’s car broke down on the freeway. After a few heated words during which he blamed it on Hallie, she set out to walk home. Luckily, a taxi picked her up but since she had to go Dutch on dinner, she had no money. She went to her new neighbor’s house and borrowed money for the taxi from him. Steve Marris gave her the money and did not try to tease her about it. She definitely appreciated that about him. Steve was divorced and had two children on the weekends and Hallie had gotten to know them all. She also knew that Steve was still in love with his ex-wife. After her second date turned out much like the first, she gave up on the dating site. She was still determined to find that elusive husband.
The dates she and Donnalee have are full of fun due to the missteps their dates make. Debbie Macomber shows how hard some women work to meet the right guy. Sometimes they work so hard, they don’t see what is in front of them.
Hallie McCarthy had her life planned out. She was going to make a go of her business and not let anything or anyone get in the way. She was organized and goal-orientated. Now as she turned thirty, she realized she wanted to get married and have a family as well as her business. For her, to do this, she simply had to have a plan and to follow it. She gave herself a year to find a man, get married, and get pregnant. Definitely in that order. She told her best friend, Donnalee about her plan and Donnalee decided it was time for her to follow that plan as well. Donnalee decided to sign up on a dating site to find her perfect man. She thought the two thousand dollars would be worth it. It was for her. Her first date was with Sanford and he seemed to be perfect. Hallie was jealous at the speed with which Donnalee and Sanford fell in love. Maybe there was something to this dating site.
Hallie resisted the site because of the money at first; but seeing Donnalee happy, she decided to try it. What a joke on her. The first date ended when her date’s car broke down on the freeway. After a few heated words during which he blamed it on Hallie, she set out to walk home. Luckily, a taxi picked her up but since she had to go Dutch on dinner, she had no money. She went to her new neighbor’s house and borrowed money for the taxi from him. Steve Marris gave her the money and did not try to tease her about it. She definitely appreciated that about him. Steve was divorced and had two children on the weekends and Hallie had gotten to know them all. She also knew that Steve was still in love with his ex-wife. After her second date turned out much like the first, she gave up on the dating site. She was still determined to find that elusive husband.
The dates she and Donnalee have are full of fun due to the missteps their dates make. Debbie Macomber shows how hard some women work to meet the right guy. Sometimes they work so hard, they don’t see what is in front of them.
October 11, 2024
This was just a fun read. Debbie Macomber books are light and fun and stress-free. I believe I have read 14 Debbie Macomber books, but this one might just be my favorite!
Hallie’s thoughts on weight loss: “She wasn’t entirely confident that those pounds were gone for good. Were they hiding around the corner, waiting for her to lower her guard? One day away from the treadmill or succumbing to the temptation of a chocolate-chip cookie and they’d be back� (33). 🤪
Hallie’s thoughts on weight loss: “She wasn’t entirely confident that those pounds were gone for good. Were they hiding around the corner, waiting for her to lower her guard? One day away from the treadmill or succumbing to the temptation of a chocolate-chip cookie and they’d be back� (33). 🤪
August 27, 2017
A light romantic comedy about a successful 29 years old businesswoman who decides that it is the time to marry and her recently divorced neighbor. It is cliched and funny in an expected way but I enjoyed it during holidays.
March 30, 2019
Beautiful story. I've always believed things, even the painful ones, happen for a reason. This book is based on that premise. I loved the way she built and built on the relationship before giving the reader the rewards.
May 12, 2023
This book was wonderful! Humorous too. Any woman who has had really bad luck with dating, will appreciate this story.
April 2, 2008
I haven't read a single book by Debbie Maccomber that I haven't loved. books. Her characters are just wonderfully written people you'd like to get to know better. Her stories never fail to entertain me or leave me with that "feel good" sentiment. This Matter of Marriage is just a good romantic
comedy. As the main character, Hallie turns the big three-o, she realizes that she has spent way too much time building her career but her life is meaningless because she's lackign a husabnd and a child. Enter the great guy next door, Steve, who is unhappily divorced and still committed to his ex-wife. Steve and his two children, Meagan and Kenny move in next door to Hallie. The children decide long before their father and sometime babysitter that they'd make a wonderful family. Reading about Hallie's disasterous dates was extremely entertaining.
comedy. As the main character, Hallie turns the big three-o, she realizes that she has spent way too much time building her career but her life is meaningless because she's lackign a husabnd and a child. Enter the great guy next door, Steve, who is unhappily divorced and still committed to his ex-wife. Steve and his two children, Meagan and Kenny move in next door to Hallie. The children decide long before their father and sometime babysitter that they'd make a wonderful family. Reading about Hallie's disasterous dates was extremely entertaining.
September 11, 2011
I'm giving this book 4 stars simply because it is exactly what is intended to be: a light and easy romantic fun read. There's no mystery or surprise about the outcome and it was apparent from the beginning what the ending would be. It was a cute story to read to get to the ending and I enjoyed it a lot. The only thing I didn't care for was the switching from 1st person perspective from Hallie to 3rd person. It was a bit confusing at times and wasn't particularly necessary.
It's not the first thing I've read by Debbie Macomber Amit certainly won't be the last!
It's not the first thing I've read by Debbie Macomber Amit certainly won't be the last!
June 25, 2008
I don't know what kept me reading this book. Maybe to see what happened. I couldn't believe Hallie didn't wise up nor that Steve was so blind. The kids were great. They seemed older than they were supposed to be, especially Megan. This was not even on my to-read list. I have 70 books on that list. Not having an easy time finding them; so, since this was a Debbie Macomber book, I grabbed it. I figured if it was one of Macomber's books, it had to be good. She didn't disappoint.
June 11, 2013
Since I have read several of Debbie Macomber books I could see where this one was heading when Steve moved in next door. I still enjoyed the book because she is a great story teller. I also liked the side story she added with Hallie's best friend Donnalee.
Best advice don't use a dating service to find a husband in a year. :)
Best advice don't use a dating service to find a husband in a year. :)
April 13, 2014
Another great read by Debbie Macomber. I enjoyed the characters - Hallie, Steve, Donnale, Meagan, Kenny...in this novel Hallie & Donnalee are striving to achieve their goals to find husbands & have children. Many dating experiences occur for these two women. Hallie & Steve become neighbors and really good friends. I love the plot.
March 1, 2014
This author created character's that I can relate to and this book was no different. I was able to relate to Hallie in her search for Mr. right and all of her bad dates. It made me laugh and stay up late to read what happened next. She creates a storyline that pulls you right in.
August 2, 2009
This was my first Debbie Macomber and it got me hooked. I made me laugh out loud.
February 20, 2012
A typical Debbie Macomber book! :)
May 6, 2012
I loved reading Debbie Macomber books ... makes you happy, sad and laugh out loud. This one was good ... not as good as some, but enjoyable none the less. Debbie has a way with romance.
August 24, 2013
This is by far, my most favorite book by Debbie Macomber.
June 19, 2016
Awesome book as always. It is what I would expected from a Debbie Macomber book
November 21, 2017
Macomber eben.
Richtig fürs Herz, romantisch, Gänsehautfeeling, herrlich
Richtig fürs Herz, romantisch, Gänsehautfeeling, herrlich
April 2, 2019
Very funny and tragic at the same time. Thankfully the parties wake up in time.
April 1, 2019
I'm not sure if I'm becoming a more discerning reader in my old age, or if it's because I read this while feeling guilty about spending an entire evening reading when I should have been writing, but throughout this story I was admiring the craft as much as the story itself. I don't see that as a sign of weakness in the story. I can see a painting and admire the work that created the image as much as the image itself, or watch a movie car chase, and admire the stunt drivers' skills without forgetting the narrative reason (however skimpy) for the chase.
Hallie and Steve run small businesses, a common trait of romance leads. Thirty and thirty-five, respectively, they've had time to get their businesses up and running, have some life experiences, and are financially comfortable. They are the type of romance leads I like - mature, independent, and not in need of a relationship.
Steve's wife left him last year, and he still wants her back, but she's started dating someone else. I appreciated how the separation was portrayed. Steve and his wife have complex feelings about it and each other, and while she initiated the split, part of his character growth is acknowledging his part in the marriage breakdown and coming to terms with the separation. There are two kids, 9 and 11, and they live with their mother, but spend most weekends with Steve.
Hallie's father died last year, her sister married and had a child, and Hallie decides it's time to lose ten pounds, pay off her credit cards, and get married. She's casually dated, but now she wants (not needs) a partner. A hot guy moves in next door, and he has two charming kids, but he's too blue collar for her and still pining for his ex-wife. He's definitely not husband material, but quickly becomes a friend. A solid setup for a friends to lovers story. We have proximity, and slightly needy kids to reinforce that.
Hallie goes on a couple of disastrous but funny dates, which end up involving Steve. Then she joins a dating service. It was at this point that I checked the copyright date. The book is twenty years old, but non-online dating, and a reference to Fred Flintstone's bowling technique, are the only elements which might confuse younger readers. Another disastrous date follows, and again Steve is involved. Macomber repeatedly brings Hallie and Steve together as friends, for various reasons and in various contexts, and their bond grows largely because it is free of any relationship pressure. The children are too good (and narratively convenient) to be true, but I was able to forgive that.
Hallie's best friend is also hunting for a husband, and having better luck. Her dating provides contrast to Hallie's, becomes important to Steve and Hallie's relationship, and helps keep the tone of the book light despite Hallie's bad dates. Hallie can talk to Steve about her friend, and to her friend about Steve. The friend's relationship also adds sexuality to the story, which contributes to the growing (and long-simmering) sexual tension in the primary relationship as a plot point and as context.
Hallie's character growth includes some decisions that make her a more old-fashioned wife and mother (even for a 1990s book). I have mixed feelings about this. It's easy to say that one should never compromise in a relationship, and never take on traditional roles, but compromise in a relationship is not necessarily a bad thing, and Hallie is learning this. And the plot and characterizations support her decisions. Her desire to lose weight, for example, is a traditional and potentially sexist issue, and yet while it repeatedly comes up in the plot, it's usually for humour, and not a factor in the relationship. If I worry about it being oppressive, instead of laughing over her buying the entire stock of an ice-cream store's double-fudge macadamia nut ice cream following a break-up (my first reaction), then perhaps I am over-thinking things.
My appreciation for the craft of this book extends to how deftly Macomber handles minor items like character descriptions, locations, and foreshadowing. I was particularly impressed by a break in the narrative flow - just one sentence out of sequence - that set up a kiss. As for the black moment, it's predictable from the premise, but presented in a satisfying fashion.
This story is balanced on the funny side of realistic, and simple yet portraying many complexities of modern relationships. An enjoyable and well-constructed read.
Hallie and Steve run small businesses, a common trait of romance leads. Thirty and thirty-five, respectively, they've had time to get their businesses up and running, have some life experiences, and are financially comfortable. They are the type of romance leads I like - mature, independent, and not in need of a relationship.
Steve's wife left him last year, and he still wants her back, but she's started dating someone else. I appreciated how the separation was portrayed. Steve and his wife have complex feelings about it and each other, and while she initiated the split, part of his character growth is acknowledging his part in the marriage breakdown and coming to terms with the separation. There are two kids, 9 and 11, and they live with their mother, but spend most weekends with Steve.
Hallie's father died last year, her sister married and had a child, and Hallie decides it's time to lose ten pounds, pay off her credit cards, and get married. She's casually dated, but now she wants (not needs) a partner. A hot guy moves in next door, and he has two charming kids, but he's too blue collar for her and still pining for his ex-wife. He's definitely not husband material, but quickly becomes a friend. A solid setup for a friends to lovers story. We have proximity, and slightly needy kids to reinforce that.
Hallie goes on a couple of disastrous but funny dates, which end up involving Steve. Then she joins a dating service. It was at this point that I checked the copyright date. The book is twenty years old, but non-online dating, and a reference to Fred Flintstone's bowling technique, are the only elements which might confuse younger readers. Another disastrous date follows, and again Steve is involved. Macomber repeatedly brings Hallie and Steve together as friends, for various reasons and in various contexts, and their bond grows largely because it is free of any relationship pressure. The children are too good (and narratively convenient) to be true, but I was able to forgive that.
Hallie's best friend is also hunting for a husband, and having better luck. Her dating provides contrast to Hallie's, becomes important to Steve and Hallie's relationship, and helps keep the tone of the book light despite Hallie's bad dates. Hallie can talk to Steve about her friend, and to her friend about Steve. The friend's relationship also adds sexuality to the story, which contributes to the growing (and long-simmering) sexual tension in the primary relationship as a plot point and as context.
Hallie's character growth includes some decisions that make her a more old-fashioned wife and mother (even for a 1990s book). I have mixed feelings about this. It's easy to say that one should never compromise in a relationship, and never take on traditional roles, but compromise in a relationship is not necessarily a bad thing, and Hallie is learning this. And the plot and characterizations support her decisions. Her desire to lose weight, for example, is a traditional and potentially sexist issue, and yet while it repeatedly comes up in the plot, it's usually for humour, and not a factor in the relationship. If I worry about it being oppressive, instead of laughing over her buying the entire stock of an ice-cream store's double-fudge macadamia nut ice cream following a break-up (my first reaction), then perhaps I am over-thinking things.
My appreciation for the craft of this book extends to how deftly Macomber handles minor items like character descriptions, locations, and foreshadowing. I was particularly impressed by a break in the narrative flow - just one sentence out of sequence - that set up a kiss. As for the black moment, it's predictable from the premise, but presented in a satisfying fashion.
This story is balanced on the funny side of realistic, and simple yet portraying many complexities of modern relationships. An enjoyable and well-constructed read.
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