What do you think?
Rate this book
Those Manning Men #1-2
The Manning Brides
Rich Manning and Jamie Warren have always been friends—and nothing but friends. However, that changes when she asks him to father the child she so desperately wants. Rich agrees—if she'll marry him. Because he thinks their Marriage of Inconvenience could become a real marriage instead.
Paul Manning, a grieving widower with three small children, turns to Leah Baker for help and comfort. When that comfort begins to grow into something else, Paul discovers that he wants more than a Stand-In Wife.
Paul Manning, a grieving widower with three small children, turns to Leah Baker for help and comfort. When that comfort begins to grow into something else, Paul discovers that he wants more than a Stand-In Wife.
475 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 1, 2008
202 people are currently reading
2360 people want to read
About the author
Debbie Macomber
895 books20.8k followersDebbie 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.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 239 reviews
April 6, 2025
These are two short Romance stories. I normally love Debbie Macomber's book. I listen to the audiobook for this book. This book has characters that just do not talk to each other a lot which I really do not like. I hate when the whole book is a misunderstanding just because the two main characters are not talking about the problems. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
March 5, 2016
I believe these two books were earlier works of Macomber's and they were not impressive in the least. Both stories were nothing but misunderstandings between the heroes and heroines and hiding their true feelings. Frustration galore! We're together, we're apart. I love you...maybe...or do I? I never knew intimacy could be so incredible...I am no longer going to share your bed. I love you, you love me...but you still love your dead wife so I'm out of here! I was fearful I would have to make an appointment with my chiropractor with all of the whiplash. There was no time that either couple spent happy time together...until the last page or two. I wanted and expected at least a small amount of time to get to know them as couples, to see their love play out and grow.
I cannot recommend this book from my point of view but maybe you should give it a try on and see how it fits.
I cannot recommend this book from my point of view but maybe you should give it a try on and see how it fits.
August 1, 2015
The cynical views of relationships that Macomber starts these stories with are akin to those faced by many of us on a daily basis. At the same time, she overcomes them in a realistic and promising manner that gives hope to those of us reading the stories. They’re the kind of stories that make you cry happy tears, living alongside the characters as they come to grips with their new realities. The well written, intricately crafted tales are fantastic alone, but unforgettable together.
Rich is a fantastic, down to earth guy. He’s a friend in every sense of the world. Jamie is the type of woman who warms your heart and makes you feel welcome in her life. I loved how strong she was, going after what she wanted, regardless of public opinion. Paul’s tale, on the other hand, was so emotionally infused that it tugged at my heart a little more with every word. Getting to know him and Leah as they come to grips with their loss was both heartbreaking and heart-warming.
These two stories were poignant counterpoints to one another, Rich’s making me laugh, and Paul’s bringing me to tears. Through them, Macomber has once again created a work that will leave a smile on your face.
Rich is a fantastic, down to earth guy. He’s a friend in every sense of the world. Jamie is the type of woman who warms your heart and makes you feel welcome in her life. I loved how strong she was, going after what she wanted, regardless of public opinion. Paul’s tale, on the other hand, was so emotionally infused that it tugged at my heart a little more with every word. Getting to know him and Leah as they come to grips with their loss was both heartbreaking and heart-warming.
These two stories were poignant counterpoints to one another, Rich’s making me laugh, and Paul’s bringing me to tears. Through them, Macomber has once again created a work that will leave a smile on your face.
July 1, 2023
Okay this was a two for one special which I would normally be pumped about but these books were plain, bland and nondescript. Ironically these are the descriptive words that both the MMC in each of these novels uses to describe the FMC. I’ve read Debbie Macomber before and really enjoyed it but this one was a big miss for me. I really wanted to enjoy it but it was not my cup of tea. These books were written in the 90s I believe (early 90s) and it shows. Both novels also have a heavy religious overtone. The first is a marriage of inconveniences where the main characters decide to have a baby together but the MMC wants them to wed so you know, the baby isn’t born out of wedlock. The second book is about the MMC losing his wife and his sister in law moves in: naturally they fall in love and end up married within 9 months. Anyways these were not for me and no shade to Macomber because I’ll probably try her again but it’s a one star for me.😬
February 4, 2011
while i enjoy the cedar cove and yarn shop books....this series and her christmas ones are horrifically cheesy, even for me
March 26, 2025
Springtime sunshine is two short stories that intertwine with one another. Both being an easy, enjoyable read especially when you just need something to read after a long day.
October 23, 2013
http://ceceliadowdy.com/blog/2013/10/...
In Stand-In Wife, Leah Baker’s sister, Diane, dies. Diane leaves behind her husband, Paul, and three small children. Paul struggles to care for his family while working full-time. Leah steps in, helping whenever she can. Leah finally decides to quit her job and move in with Paul and his family. She wants to do this because she wants to care for her sister’s children. Since their mother is gone, they are struggling to adjust to their lives without their mom.
However, Leah and Paul are attracted to one another. Is it wrong for them to feel this way? After all, Paul was Diane’s husband, and Paul loved Diane. As a matter of fact, everybody loved Diane. Diane was a beautiful outgoing woman and Leah recalled that Diane was always favored by their mother. Plain, intelligent Leah always took a backseat to her beautiful, vivacious sister. Could Paul realistically love Leah, when he was also in love with Leah’s beautiful sister, Diane?
I really enjoyed this book. This story showed how people can struggle with romantic feelings which inadvertently result from the death of a spouse. Also, I really felt for Leah – it’s so sad for a woman to grow up, playing second fiddle to their sibling. Growing up like that would certainly create emotional scars, and Leah struggled with how Diane had been favored by their mom.
Like most of Macomber’s books, this is a clean, sweet romance and I found it to be highly appealing and realistic. I loved seeing the bond developing between Leah and the children.
In Stand-In Wife, Leah Baker’s sister, Diane, dies. Diane leaves behind her husband, Paul, and three small children. Paul struggles to care for his family while working full-time. Leah steps in, helping whenever she can. Leah finally decides to quit her job and move in with Paul and his family. She wants to do this because she wants to care for her sister’s children. Since their mother is gone, they are struggling to adjust to their lives without their mom.
However, Leah and Paul are attracted to one another. Is it wrong for them to feel this way? After all, Paul was Diane’s husband, and Paul loved Diane. As a matter of fact, everybody loved Diane. Diane was a beautiful outgoing woman and Leah recalled that Diane was always favored by their mother. Plain, intelligent Leah always took a backseat to her beautiful, vivacious sister. Could Paul realistically love Leah, when he was also in love with Leah’s beautiful sister, Diane?
I really enjoyed this book. This story showed how people can struggle with romantic feelings which inadvertently result from the death of a spouse. Also, I really felt for Leah – it’s so sad for a woman to grow up, playing second fiddle to their sibling. Growing up like that would certainly create emotional scars, and Leah struggled with how Diane had been favored by their mom.
Like most of Macomber’s books, this is a clean, sweet romance and I found it to be highly appealing and realistic. I loved seeing the bond developing between Leah and the children.
May 31, 2010
"The first story (Marriage of Inconvienence) was rather contrived. Too many times, this couple was mad at each other for not calling, when they had both called but not left messages. If ever anyone needed caller ID it was these two!" The second story (Stand In Wife) was better than the first. At least these two had some legitimate concerns. Happy endings all around.
March 3, 2025
I absolutely loved this book!! You get 2 books in one!! How can you neat that? Debbie Macomber is one of the best writers I absolutely love everything she writes!! Pick this book up today you will not be disappointed!!
February 14, 2018
For the beach or the plane, not worth the time for anything else
September 8, 2019
Errr can test your patience -.-
April 20, 2023
It's been a long time since I read a Debbie Macomber book, and when one of the challenges fitted most of my prompts, I decided to read The Manning Brides.
I believe the two stories of this anthology were first published as Harlequin books.
The truth is I like Jamie & Rich's story more than Paul & Leah's story. Even though both Rich & Jamie made stupid assumptions and jumped to conclusions, and misunderstandings ran rampant throughout the book, I enjoyed it.
Leah & Paul's story showed how people could struggle with romantic feelings that inadvertently result from a spouse's death. Also, I felt for Leah – it's so sad for a woman to grow up playing second fiddle to their sibling. Growing up like that would undoubtedly create emotional scars, and Leah struggled with how their mom favored Diane.
These two stories were poignant counterpoints, Rich's making me laugh and Paul's bringing me to tears.
I am looking forward to reading the third brother's story, the one that will never get married.
I believe the two stories of this anthology were first published as Harlequin books.
The truth is I like Jamie & Rich's story more than Paul & Leah's story. Even though both Rich & Jamie made stupid assumptions and jumped to conclusions, and misunderstandings ran rampant throughout the book, I enjoyed it.
Leah & Paul's story showed how people could struggle with romantic feelings that inadvertently result from a spouse's death. Also, I felt for Leah – it's so sad for a woman to grow up playing second fiddle to their sibling. Growing up like that would undoubtedly create emotional scars, and Leah struggled with how their mom favored Diane.
These two stories were poignant counterpoints, Rich's making me laugh and Paul's bringing me to tears.
I am looking forward to reading the third brother's story, the one that will never get married.
August 2, 2022
3 star listens for both books.
Females in both books don’t know how to speak their feelings which I find odd. They can’t explain their emotions which is usually a male problem.
Quite a bit of angst in both books. More steam in book 1 than there is in book 2.
I’m looking forward to the third brothers story as well.
Interesting enough reads/listens
Angsty rom coms
Females in both books don’t know how to speak their feelings which I find odd. They can’t explain their emotions which is usually a male problem.
Quite a bit of angst in both books. More steam in book 1 than there is in book 2.
I’m looking forward to the third brothers story as well.
Interesting enough reads/listens
Angsty rom coms
November 10, 2021
This is a bit more of an authentic struggle. When her sister dies Leah steps in and cares for her family. Eventually she marries her sister’s husband and they both struggle with guilt.
April 22, 2024
not my favorite tropes, but still good :)
April 1, 2025
Two stories in one book and they intertwine as each story is about a brother and their “not so normal wedding “.
I really like the premise behind both of these stories. They were not your typical Macomber style. I liked that they were both a bit different as they were not the usual boy meets girl and falls in love. I was vested and wanted to hear the outcome, my only issue was the miscommunication trope was way overdone in both, to the point of almost being aggravating. I needed more depth f the resolve after the miscommunication.
I really like the premise behind both of these stories. They were not your typical Macomber style. I liked that they were both a bit different as they were not the usual boy meets girl and falls in love. I was vested and wanted to hear the outcome, my only issue was the miscommunication trope was way overdone in both, to the point of almost being aggravating. I needed more depth f the resolve after the miscommunication.
November 28, 2024
This book had two stories in it.
Marriage of inconvenience: I didn’t care for this story. Rich Manning and Jamie Warren, friends since high school, decide to get married so Rich can be the father of a baby Jamie would have by artificial insemination. They would then get divorced once the baby is born. Fortunately things don’t work out that way. But instead of realizing they both love each other, which they do, it just gets more complicated with both of them in love, but thinking the other is not in love with them. Eventually, the right communication happens.
Stand-in Wife: This story was better, but it was similar to a book I recently read, Room on the Porch Swing. Paul Manning’s wife, Dianne, has had a baby girl, Kelsey, but Dianne had complications and passed away. With twin boys and a new baby, Dianne’s sister, Leah, convinces Paul to have her move in with them. As the weeks go by, Leah is a tremendous help. But both Leah and Paul, without the other knowing, are falling in love. But it’s not that easy. Paul still loves Dianne, and will never stop loving her. Leah feels guilt, and even though she loves her sister, feels she was always the quiet and studious one, where Dianne was the bubbly and pretty sister. Why would Paul love her?
Paul’s parents make a recommendation for Paul and Leah to get married, since Kelsey has only known Leah as a mother and how can Leah leave in a few years when it would devastate the twins again. After they get married, Paul and Leah still have a lot to talk about and work out, but in the end they both realize Dianne wants them to move on and be a family.
Marriage of inconvenience: I didn’t care for this story. Rich Manning and Jamie Warren, friends since high school, decide to get married so Rich can be the father of a baby Jamie would have by artificial insemination. They would then get divorced once the baby is born. Fortunately things don’t work out that way. But instead of realizing they both love each other, which they do, it just gets more complicated with both of them in love, but thinking the other is not in love with them. Eventually, the right communication happens.
Stand-in Wife: This story was better, but it was similar to a book I recently read, Room on the Porch Swing. Paul Manning’s wife, Dianne, has had a baby girl, Kelsey, but Dianne had complications and passed away. With twin boys and a new baby, Dianne’s sister, Leah, convinces Paul to have her move in with them. As the weeks go by, Leah is a tremendous help. But both Leah and Paul, without the other knowing, are falling in love. But it’s not that easy. Paul still loves Dianne, and will never stop loving her. Leah feels guilt, and even though she loves her sister, feels she was always the quiet and studious one, where Dianne was the bubbly and pretty sister. Why would Paul love her?
Paul’s parents make a recommendation for Paul and Leah to get married, since Kelsey has only known Leah as a mother and how can Leah leave in a few years when it would devastate the twins again. After they get married, Paul and Leah still have a lot to talk about and work out, but in the end they both realize Dianne wants them to move on and be a family.
January 3, 2013
'The Manning Brides' picks up where 'The Sheriff Takes a Wife' leaves off with 'Marriage of Inconvenience' and 'Stand-in Wife.'
'Marriage of Inconvenience' follows the 3rd son of the Manning clan, Rich. Described as the best looking brother, Rich is known as a ladies man but has never settled down. When his best friend from high school, Jamie, asks him to be a sperm donor so she can have a child, he decides marriage, then divorce after the baby is born, is the best option. Jamie agrees and then quickly get married, but when they discover they really love each other, can they express how they are feeling and make the relationship work?
'Stand-In Wife' follows the oldest Manning brother, Paul. A widower with twin boys and an infant daughter, he is grateful when his sister-in-law gives up her career as a college professor to help raise the kids. He quickly realizes that Leah has helped him heal from his wife's death and has opened us his heart.
Once again, this was a quick, easy read. Although predictable and somewhat repetitive, I really enjoyed Rich and Jamie's story. Rich is charming, funny and perhaps the most 'real' out of the characters Macomber created. Paul's story was readable but the least enjoyable out of all the Manning's so far. I couldn't wrap my head around him falling in love and marrying his dead wife's sister.
Recommend: if you are looking for a fun, quick, easy, G-rated romance, I really enjoyed 'Marriage of Inconvenience.' You can skip 'Stand-In Wife.
'Marriage of Inconvenience' follows the 3rd son of the Manning clan, Rich. Described as the best looking brother, Rich is known as a ladies man but has never settled down. When his best friend from high school, Jamie, asks him to be a sperm donor so she can have a child, he decides marriage, then divorce after the baby is born, is the best option. Jamie agrees and then quickly get married, but when they discover they really love each other, can they express how they are feeling and make the relationship work?
'Stand-In Wife' follows the oldest Manning brother, Paul. A widower with twin boys and an infant daughter, he is grateful when his sister-in-law gives up her career as a college professor to help raise the kids. He quickly realizes that Leah has helped him heal from his wife's death and has opened us his heart.
Once again, this was a quick, easy read. Although predictable and somewhat repetitive, I really enjoyed Rich and Jamie's story. Rich is charming, funny and perhaps the most 'real' out of the characters Macomber created. Paul's story was readable but the least enjoyable out of all the Manning's so far. I couldn't wrap my head around him falling in love and marrying his dead wife's sister.
Recommend: if you are looking for a fun, quick, easy, G-rated romance, I really enjoyed 'Marriage of Inconvenience.' You can skip 'Stand-In Wife.
September 8, 2008
This book was an easy read. I really liked 21 wishes so I thought I would try some other books. I liked the stories. Definitely a romance novel ...however not every chapter is about sex. Don't get me wrong, there are some intimate scenes but not explicit. I liked the two stories in this book. I really developed a liking for the male characters. The women were a little nuts at times and I wondered if people are really like that. All in all, it was a nice love story and .... had two happy endings! YAY!! I love happy endings.
May 14, 2009
This is one of those books I'll only read when there's nothing better. It wasn't horrible, but it certainly wasn't great either. Unlike some of Debbie Macomber's other books, this one doesn't have much to offer in the way of interesting location or characters. The premise of both of these stories is pretty weak, especially the first one. This book has two out of six stories related to the Manning family, and I am just interested enough in the Mannings to pick up the other two books when I see them.
October 29, 2009
Of course I'm partial to this book--it features my last name! Two stories contained in one book. A school teacher moves to Montana specifically to lick her wounds after a bad relationship. Instead, she meets a handsome stubborn rancher and the sparks between them fly both in temper and romance. The second sister comes to Montana to help her sister after the birth of her first child. While she is engaged to a guy who her parents adore and she cares about, she finds herself attracted to the sheriff of Cougar Point.
January 8, 2010
I don't know if I should even put this in the 'read' pile because when it came down to it, I couldn't finish the second story. I have read stories like that before and it didn't squick me like this one ... oh well. The writing was not too bad (too much hysteria from the females and stoic non-communication from the males ... oh wait, that's just like real life, ha ha). It just wasn't my cup of tea.
March 28, 2025
Typical sweet stories by this author. Nice that there are two stories friends to lovers and second chance love. I enjoyed listening to the audiobook, the author did a great job with the voices of the characters. Thank you #NetGalley for this ARC, all opinions expressed are my own. #SpringtimeSunshine
September 10, 2008
Good light hearted read. I'd read the Manning Sisters, so I thought I'd try this one out too. Love a continuing story. The 2nd story in the set was a little far fetched, but still an easy & enjoyable read. I'll still buy the next one in December.
April 7, 2013
I have only read the first story in the book ... didn't like it as much as Debbie's other books ... too much repetition. I'm going to put it down for awhile and come back later to read the second story.
May 30, 2014
There are very few books I don't finish. This was one of them. I couldn't get past the first few chapters. I'm used to cheesy romance novels, but this one is just awful. Needless and senseless drama, and hello, where are the cell phones in this book? As if anyone only has a land line these days.
August 21, 2019
I almost didn’t finish this book. I’ve never read about more annoying, sappy, immature characters. I wanted to discipline them both several times for their stupidity. Lol. I finally made it to the end. ( Marriage of Inconvenience)
November 16, 2013
Kept my interest ! Great book.
April 30, 2022
I love both stories but I would like to know more about the brother Jason one of the characters!! I couldn't put the book down. I always love her books. 💕
Displaying 1 - 30 of 239 reviews