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Navy #1
Navy Wife
Impulsive, wounded, vulnerable, Lindy Kyle was unprepared for a roommate like Rush Callaghan. Strong, sensitive and sexy, the temporarily dry-docked naval officer was everything she'd ever dreamed of in a man…in a husband.
But Rush placed duty to his country above all else. Though he and Lindy were swept away on a tide of passion, he was called back to sea. They say absence makes the heart grow fonder—but will their marriage survive their partings?
But Rush placed duty to his country above all else. Though he and Lindy were swept away on a tide of passion, he was called back to sea. They say absence makes the heart grow fonder—but will their marriage survive their partings?
275 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1988
410 people are currently reading
1539 people want to read
About the author
Debbie Macomber
899 books20.6k 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
October 21, 2007
A must read for all navy wives if you want a good laugh! The sheer absurdity of it makes you laugh out loud.
March 20, 2016
This is one of Debbie's earlier books. I must admit that I like the books she's written over the last few years the best. I appreciate not being taken into the bedroom because I am much more interested in the characters development and the stories they live. The sexual activity, best implied, does detract from my enjoyment of a story. That said, I liked her characters and will probably read the rest of the series.
August 14, 2015
What a great story!!
November 1, 2016
At her older brother’s invitation, Lindy Kyle has come to Seattle to recover from a broken engagement. Both Lindy’s brother, Steven, and his roommate, Rush Callaghan, are in the Navy and scheduled to be at sea so she’ll have a place to stay while her heart mends.
Rush’s ship experiences mechanical issues and has to return to port only days into the deployment. Upon returning to his apartment, he discovers Lindy and sparks fly until he realizes who Lindy is. From that point, there is a growing relationship as the two remain as roommates while Rush’s ship is being repaired.
The story was interesting and the characters likable (except for one part later in the book when I wanted to strangle Lindy). Navy Wife is the first in the series and I will be checking out more books in this series.
Rating: 4 stars
Rush’s ship experiences mechanical issues and has to return to port only days into the deployment. Upon returning to his apartment, he discovers Lindy and sparks fly until he realizes who Lindy is. From that point, there is a growing relationship as the two remain as roommates while Rush’s ship is being repaired.
The story was interesting and the characters likable (except for one part later in the book when I wanted to strangle Lindy). Navy Wife is the first in the series and I will be checking out more books in this series.
Rating: 4 stars
May 15, 2021
Ok, Debbie Macomber can write and I have been binging on her Navy series. Most of them are great filler while I'm waiting for my insta buy authors but this particular book made me realize why this series does not rate more than 3 stars for me. Miscommunications or lack of communications is the name of the story.
This particular couple do not communicate at all, how can I believe that their happily ever after will last? They talk but not communicate. And considering that they are building a relationship where they are apart more than they are together, it's highly doubtful to me.
The funny part is that the story ended when the heroine finally convinced the hero to have sex with her. Considering 98 percent of the book is spent reading/listening how the lack of communication kept the two apart it's a let down that the ending is just the two happily having sex.
Sigh...Off to the other books in the series.
This particular couple do not communicate at all, how can I believe that their happily ever after will last? They talk but not communicate. And considering that they are building a relationship where they are apart more than they are together, it's highly doubtful to me.
The funny part is that the story ended when the heroine finally convinced the hero to have sex with her. Considering 98 percent of the book is spent reading/listening how the lack of communication kept the two apart it's a let down that the ending is just the two happily having sex.
Sigh...Off to the other books in the series.
January 3, 2010
Had to hit the library feeling low on budget and needing something to read. Being a Navy Wife for 10 1/2 years this book has always caught my eye but I wasn't sure I wanted to rehash all those feelings. I finally gave in and am glad I did. She used several wives to research this book and I feel she covered both sides of the life very well. It is however dedicated to the backbone of the Navy though the wives and if you have ever lived the life you know what that entails. This is a great story about some of the whirlwind romances that happen to sailors and then the adjustments any woman has to make when she is second to the military in her mans life. So true so hurtful and rewarding at the same time. Been there done most of it to all those still active duty stay strong! Great read ; )
April 25, 2013
Not my cup of tea.. Everything about this book was weak... From beginning to end. The misunderstanding of her being the roomie's gf to the brother coming back finding them in bed... To the misunderstanding about the letter mix up.. All very weak points.
I do give props to the mentions of how hard it could be the wife of service men.. I couldn't imagine what that's like to only see your spouse for only weeks in a year.. Tough. And kudos to them.
Overall.. Book isn't worth reading, there are good bits here and there but not enough to be a recommended..
I do give props to the mentions of how hard it could be the wife of service men.. I couldn't imagine what that's like to only see your spouse for only weeks in a year.. Tough. And kudos to them.
Overall.. Book isn't worth reading, there are good bits here and there but not enough to be a recommended..
September 7, 2007
It's was a sweet story. I also think the Debbie Macomber understands base living and you can see it in her writing. (navy series)
January 22, 2014
Good,I was a navy wife for 10 years. he was in the navy when I married him. I knew we would be apart. the first year he was gone 9 months. so I can tell relate to this on so many levels.
October 12, 2019
Good characters, explicit sexuality
Too steamy. Good characters as always. I cannot recommend it because of the explicit sexuality, though Debbie doesn't write like that anymore.
Too steamy. Good characters as always. I cannot recommend it because of the explicit sexuality, though Debbie doesn't write like that anymore.
April 3, 2021
Not one of her best books so tad disappointed.
July 14, 2020
Pros: Liked the military theme. It made me appreciate what life can be like for military wives - the potential danger of the job, long separations, and responsibilities they take on during those times. Could also understand how the military guys loved their families, but loved their jobs also.
Cons: Repetitive at times. Hated the steaminess and descriptive intimate scenes. This earlier work doesn't reflect the quality of Macomber's later writing.
Cons: Repetitive at times. Hated the steaminess and descriptive intimate scenes. This earlier work doesn't reflect the quality of Macomber's later writing.
January 7, 2026
This book opened my eyes from long ago how a new wife vs a navy man look at things.. I give it an extra star for that.. very interested in where this story will go. (as always I skipped the love together stuff)
January 3, 2021
Enjoyed the book.
October 5, 2025
Not Debbie’s best. It was stupid lol
December 8, 2021
I was so disappointed in this novel. The sexual scenes were way too graphic compared to her more recent writings. And as a Navy wife of 21 years, there were way too many ridiculous things to appreciate this novel.
February 25, 2019
As a fan of the author, I enjoy her later work (the more recent stuff). My first exposure to the writer was around 2001/2002. I enjoy her Heart of Texas/Promise, Texas series; the Cedar Cove; Blossom Street, and Dakota Series. Also some stand-alone books are great. I've yet to read the "Rose Harbor" books, but they're on the "to read" list. If they're like the Cedar Cove books, then chances are I'll definitely enjoy them. I think her writing got better over time, so this is an interesting glimpse into the writer's earlier tomes.
This is one of Macomber's earlier novels, and being a fan, I grabbed it during a library sale. I'm also a fan of the TV series JAG (1995-2005) and my grandfather was in the Navy, so Navy life intrigues me.
I liked the subject - Rush mistook Lindy for being his roommate's girlfriend and thus an unintended romance occurs. The ship's troubles led to him being there and more exposure to her, thus they fall in love and don't want to separate when the time comes.
This book details some of the struggles that Navy relationships can take on couples. It's not an easy life, but rewarding one.
With that said ...
Like other reviewers - the graphic sex scenes in this (as well as the other novels in this series I've read: "Navy Blues" and "Navy Brat") were unnecessary. One reviewer called it "smut". A hint or two is good, but reading some of the scenes made me feel like a voyeur into someone's bedroom. I'm not a prude by any means, but I believe those explicit scenes are best left to one's imagination - much like on a TV show. It can be, for some, quite graphic.
I was also troubled by the fact that Lindy accepted Rush's Navy life so quickly, even when Rush cautioned her (he was already divorced from his first wife). However, after a serious accident, she wants him to choose between the Navy and her. Accidents on a carrier, even in peacetime, can happen. I get it is a romance novel, however Lindy seemed far too immature to accept the risk of what could happen or the aftermath despite knowing what she wants at her age (22).
My grandmother was not quite 28 when a kamikaze slammed into my grandfather's ship during WWII. There was no loss of life, and surprisingly after repairs, the ship was returned to service. My grandmother also had a 13 month old child at the time (my mom's older brother). Perhaps it was the 5-6 year age difference (between my grandmother and the Lindy character), or the time, but my grandmother was far more mature in handling the news and the aftermath. While pregnant for my mom, my grandfather was again deployed during the Korean conflict. He wasn't a career Navy man, and finally left the service not long after my mom was born. Still she accepted what was going on as "part of the times".
Wasn't there someone on base that could've initiated Lindy as to what is expected and what to expected when marrying the Navy? My grandmother's situation was different. My grandfather was drafted both times during war. But, this book is during peacetime and post-draft.
As with others who have reviewed the book, the relationship was based on lust for each other and when tragedy struck, Lindy couldn't handle it.
The letter mix-up was a bit annoying. I can't believe that Lindy didn't make sure to verify where to send it, again showing the rush job of getting married without checking everything out first.
I won't discuss Lindy's brother who is the subject of book #2 in the series - "Navy Blues".
The story idea was a good one - mistaken identity, whirlwind romance, marriage, tragedy, redemption. But, I felt there should've been more depth and less lust. Yes, this is one of those "steamier" Harlequin Romance books, but I would like to see Macomber re-visit this series - revamp it, clean it up, give it a bit more depth.
Since I have the book, I'll keep it, but likely once I finish the series it'll be packed away.
This is one of Macomber's earlier novels, and being a fan, I grabbed it during a library sale. I'm also a fan of the TV series JAG (1995-2005) and my grandfather was in the Navy, so Navy life intrigues me.
I liked the subject - Rush mistook Lindy for being his roommate's girlfriend and thus an unintended romance occurs. The ship's troubles led to him being there and more exposure to her, thus they fall in love and don't want to separate when the time comes.
This book details some of the struggles that Navy relationships can take on couples. It's not an easy life, but rewarding one.
With that said ...
Like other reviewers - the graphic sex scenes in this (as well as the other novels in this series I've read: "Navy Blues" and "Navy Brat") were unnecessary. One reviewer called it "smut". A hint or two is good, but reading some of the scenes made me feel like a voyeur into someone's bedroom. I'm not a prude by any means, but I believe those explicit scenes are best left to one's imagination - much like on a TV show. It can be, for some, quite graphic.
I was also troubled by the fact that Lindy accepted Rush's Navy life so quickly, even when Rush cautioned her (he was already divorced from his first wife). However, after a serious accident, she wants him to choose between the Navy and her. Accidents on a carrier, even in peacetime, can happen. I get it is a romance novel, however Lindy seemed far too immature to accept the risk of what could happen or the aftermath despite knowing what she wants at her age (22).
My grandmother was not quite 28 when a kamikaze slammed into my grandfather's ship during WWII. There was no loss of life, and surprisingly after repairs, the ship was returned to service. My grandmother also had a 13 month old child at the time (my mom's older brother). Perhaps it was the 5-6 year age difference (between my grandmother and the Lindy character), or the time, but my grandmother was far more mature in handling the news and the aftermath. While pregnant for my mom, my grandfather was again deployed during the Korean conflict. He wasn't a career Navy man, and finally left the service not long after my mom was born. Still she accepted what was going on as "part of the times".
Wasn't there someone on base that could've initiated Lindy as to what is expected and what to expected when marrying the Navy? My grandmother's situation was different. My grandfather was drafted both times during war. But, this book is during peacetime and post-draft.
As with others who have reviewed the book, the relationship was based on lust for each other and when tragedy struck, Lindy couldn't handle it.
The letter mix-up was a bit annoying. I can't believe that Lindy didn't make sure to verify where to send it, again showing the rush job of getting married without checking everything out first.
I won't discuss Lindy's brother who is the subject of book #2 in the series - "Navy Blues".
The story idea was a good one - mistaken identity, whirlwind romance, marriage, tragedy, redemption. But, I felt there should've been more depth and less lust. Yes, this is one of those "steamier" Harlequin Romance books, but I would like to see Macomber re-visit this series - revamp it, clean it up, give it a bit more depth.
Since I have the book, I'll keep it, but likely once I finish the series it'll be packed away.
December 28, 2022
This book took me about 6 months to read! I've probably read at least 20 other books in the meantime! Needless to say, this has been my least favorite Debbie Macomber love story! It was more like a lust story and had too much sexual detail. I will say that the last 1/3 of the book was better than the rest of the book! But, all in all, it is very predictable and more like a 2.5 for me!
November 9, 2014
What an intricate and well-crafted story. Macomber’s inviting writing style draws you in to this enjoyable story. This heartfelt story held my attention throughout. I couldn’t put it down. Ok. That’s a bit of a lie. I did put it down once because I was crying so hard I had to go grab a box of tissue. But other than that I read it from beginning to end in a single sitting. I loved how the author brings together the big events in life along with the little, everyday things that we rarely think about to give a full and complete picture to her readers.
Macomber invites her readers deep into the lives of the main characters of this story. I love how she develops them in detail individually, showing how they became who they are. Readers also get to see how they change, in small ways, as they come together as a couple. You can actually feel the friction between the characters. It’s pricelessly comical at times and heartbreaking at others.
This was a fantastic novel that really brings forward the difficulties and rewards of a military marriage. I would highly recommend it to anyone and everyone who enjoys any form of romance.
Macomber invites her readers deep into the lives of the main characters of this story. I love how she develops them in detail individually, showing how they became who they are. Readers also get to see how they change, in small ways, as they come together as a couple. You can actually feel the friction between the characters. It’s pricelessly comical at times and heartbreaking at others.
This was a fantastic novel that really brings forward the difficulties and rewards of a military marriage. I would highly recommend it to anyone and everyone who enjoys any form of romance.
September 21, 2017
This book reminded of a carousel ride. On one side, you would have the child waving to their parents and then as the revolution passes, the child is crying and upset. The carousel rotates around and everything is wonderful, then as it passes, you have sad faces. This continues on until the ride finally comes to an end.
The characters were either hot or cold. Loving each other in one paragraph and breaking up in the next paragraph. Plunging into marriage because everything is magical and then ready to break up because guess what? it is as difficult as everyone warned you it would be. Personally, I grew tired of the back and forth of the main character. I didn't like how she was supposed to be a mature 22 year old who knew her heart and then two pages later, she was spoiled brat who didn't get her way.
You can definitely tell this is one of Debbie Macomber's earlier books. The "adult scenes" are much more graphic than her later books and the characters are not as well fleshed out as her more recent novels.
The characters were either hot or cold. Loving each other in one paragraph and breaking up in the next paragraph. Plunging into marriage because everything is magical and then ready to break up because guess what? it is as difficult as everyone warned you it would be. Personally, I grew tired of the back and forth of the main character. I didn't like how she was supposed to be a mature 22 year old who knew her heart and then two pages later, she was spoiled brat who didn't get her way.
You can definitely tell this is one of Debbie Macomber's earlier books. The "adult scenes" are much more graphic than her later books and the characters are not as well fleshed out as her more recent novels.
April 20, 2014
In Macomber’s romance novel, Lindy Kyle flees to Seattle hoping to mend a broken heart. But she is unprepared for her new roommate, Rush Callaghan. Strong, sensitive, and sexy as hell, the naval officer represents everything Lindy has ever believed a husband should be. But Rush is a navy man and country and service precedes personal relationships. While passion consumes them, Rush is reactivated and sent to sea leaving them with the question: Will their marriage survive a sea of separation?
Macomber has woven a passionate and memorable story of romance again.
Macomber has woven a passionate and memorable story of romance again.
November 19, 2012
I don't know what it is with some romances but some are just outright cheesy. Sadly, Navy Wife didn't impress me. It was kind of repetetive at times. I don't know that I will continue to read the series.
I expected more feeling from this author. Her other works have brought out warm feelings out me but this one was just flat.
I expected more feeling from this author. Her other works have brought out warm feelings out me but this one was just flat.
May 9, 2014
I'm a huge supporter of our military men and women, and their families, so I really enjoyed this book. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series. Note: if your husband or wife is currently deployed, or is deploying in the future, I recommend you DO NOT read this book.
August 29, 2015
I absolutely love this book. The whirlwind romance between Lindy and Rush is beautifully written. The ending left me in tears. There are a few loose strings to tie up in the next book, so off to the library I go.
September 4, 2016
I have read many Debbie Macomber books that I enjoyed so much. this one, not so much. I found it so shallow, not at all interesting. But, my ocd would not tolerate starting the book and not finish it, so I did. All the way to the very predictable ending.
May 8, 2008
Too Harlequin. Won't read the rest of the series.
June 27, 2014
Just started the Navy series & cant wait to read book #2....Another winner & I recommend anyone to read this
July 3, 2017
Navy Wife
Too much sexual content. It was very emotional and kept me reading to the end, which was a wonderful ending.
Too much sexual content. It was very emotional and kept me reading to the end, which was a wonderful ending.
August 16, 2020
I was almost going to toss this without finishing it, because the mindset of both leading characters was frustrating me. But then I checked the date it was first published then figured out what was wrong here. So I did my best to rewind my mentality to 1988. At this stage I'd found more patience for the story and read it as a quasi modern historical. Makes for an interesting project I can tell you.
Also was a good look at what it was to be a spouse of someone in the defense forces and made me thankful for modern technology that would have been a Godsend to spouses of today's career soldiers.
In the end I rather enjoyed reading this blast from the past. But I think publishers need to do something extra for today's readers when resurrecting a modern romance and republishing it. Maybe putting date on the first chapter header.
Also was a good look at what it was to be a spouse of someone in the defense forces and made me thankful for modern technology that would have been a Godsend to spouses of today's career soldiers.
In the end I rather enjoyed reading this blast from the past. But I think publishers need to do something extra for today's readers when resurrecting a modern romance and republishing it. Maybe putting date on the first chapter header.
May 7, 2018
Navy Wife is by Debbie Macomber. It is set in Seattle where the navy ships port. Lindy Kyle has come to Seattle to get away from her ex-fiance and the fiasco of that engagement. She needs a new start and a new place is just the thing. She isn’t alone, though, as her brother, Steve, is stationed here and shares an apartment with another Navy officer. Both men are out at sea for great lengths of time, so staying at Steve’s place until she finds a job is just great for her. Since his roommate, Russ Callaghan is out on maneuvers, she has the place to herself. However, things can always change in a moment as Russ’s ship has to return to port for repairs. He is now home not happy at all to find a woman in the apartment! Can the two work things out before causing damage to the other?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews