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Orchard Valley #3
Norah
Norah Bloomfield is feeling a bit unneeded these days, a bit lonely. Her father is quickly recovering his health, and her sisters, Valerie and Stephanie, are busy planning their weddings.
Then, from out of the blue, a cantankerous Texan named Rowdy Cassidy crashes into Orchard Valley. And into Norah's life... The same Rowdy Cassidy who'd been Valerie's boss--and who'd demanded she cancel her wedding. Now he's Norah's patient. And in all her nursing experience, she's never encountered a more difficult man. Or a more irresistible one!
Yes, she falls in love with him. And that's a mistake--because Norah has good reason to believe that Rowdy's still in love with her sister.
Then, from out of the blue, a cantankerous Texan named Rowdy Cassidy crashes into Orchard Valley. And into Norah's life... The same Rowdy Cassidy who'd been Valerie's boss--and who'd demanded she cancel her wedding. Now he's Norah's patient. And in all her nursing experience, she's never encountered a more difficult man. Or a more irresistible one!
Yes, she falls in love with him. And that's a mistake--because Norah has good reason to believe that Rowdy's still in love with her sister.
Paperback
First published December 2, 1992
366 people are currently reading
743 people want to read
About the author
Debbie Macomber
901 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
February 9, 2016
This series was so awful. This one was by far the worst. He was the biggest jerk all the way through - I just didn't get at all what made her fall in love with him. So painful to read. But I made it through the 3 sisters' stories. Can't continue even though there's one more book I think. Need to read something good now!!
November 24, 2016
Heroine was alright. Hero was a jerk... he threw tantrums if he didn't get what he wanted.
I don't think they'd last haha
I don't think they'd last haha
October 7, 2017
I have read this story a few times - about 4 times if I'm not mistaken - but everytime it could still capture my heart. And this time, it was more so. I was so immersed in this, that I almost cried along with Norah. Maybe experience and life lessons have given me more understanding of Norah's feeling compared to the other times that I've read this. And that's why I did not think twice to give this 5 stars.
The first time I've read this story was back in my school days. That time this trilogy was published together under Orchard Valley title. A friend of mine borrowed the book from another friend. Being an avid reader, I can't help but to take a sneak peek of the book (at first I didn't realize that it had 3 stories). My habit was to start a book by reading the last chapter (until one friend threatened to remove the last chapter of any book that I read haha) so the story that I chose happened to be Norah's (I read the entire story, not only the last chapter). Since my friend have to returned the book to its owner, I only managed to read that one story. There were 3 of us who sneakily read the book at the time and coincidentally, we all chose 3 different story to read.
I just love the story very much, but as always, I only remember the mcs names, the main plot and part of the title. No remembrance of the author at all. But with GR's help, we a reunited 😁😁. And of course I was surprised to realize that the author is none other than the estimable Debbie Macomber.
And now, finally, I can read the other sisters' story which have eluded me for so long. But Norah and Rowdy will always be my favorite couple.
Ps - I cheated for the challenge. Actually I read the Orchard Valley Brides book ✌️✌️
The first time I've read this story was back in my school days. That time this trilogy was published together under Orchard Valley title. A friend of mine borrowed the book from another friend. Being an avid reader, I can't help but to take a sneak peek of the book (at first I didn't realize that it had 3 stories). My habit was to start a book by reading the last chapter (until one friend threatened to remove the last chapter of any book that I read haha) so the story that I chose happened to be Norah's (I read the entire story, not only the last chapter). Since my friend have to returned the book to its owner, I only managed to read that one story. There were 3 of us who sneakily read the book at the time and coincidentally, we all chose 3 different story to read.
I just love the story very much, but as always, I only remember the mcs names, the main plot and part of the title. No remembrance of the author at all. But with GR's help, we a reunited 😁😁. And of course I was surprised to realize that the author is none other than the estimable Debbie Macomber.
And now, finally, I can read the other sisters' story which have eluded me for so long. But Norah and Rowdy will always be my favorite couple.
Ps - I cheated for the challenge. Actually I read the Orchard Valley Brides book ✌️✌️
March 13, 2023
#3 in the Orchard Valley Harlequin romance series
This was the nicest of the books in this trilogy. Norah is the youngest sister, a nurse who is working at the emergency room when her older sister's former boss is brought in after a small plane crash. Rowdy is a strong, aggressive business owner who refuses to lie back and relax even with his many serious injuries. Norah, on the other hand, is the calm, cool homebody who is the only one who can keep Rowdy quiet. They keep having conflicts and arguments as Rowdy keeps upping the ante and trying to get back to his normal busy lifestyle. Eventually they both start to realize that they care for each other, although both are fighting it. There were some old-fashioned moments, and the "romance" is definitely clean compared to today's style. Although Rowdy is an alpha male, he's also willing to compromise, unlike many other heroes of this time period. This is a typical sweet Harlequin, and I enjoyed the wrap-up that was begun in the first two books. Excellent HEA.
This was the nicest of the books in this trilogy. Norah is the youngest sister, a nurse who is working at the emergency room when her older sister's former boss is brought in after a small plane crash. Rowdy is a strong, aggressive business owner who refuses to lie back and relax even with his many serious injuries. Norah, on the other hand, is the calm, cool homebody who is the only one who can keep Rowdy quiet. They keep having conflicts and arguments as Rowdy keeps upping the ante and trying to get back to his normal busy lifestyle. Eventually they both start to realize that they care for each other, although both are fighting it. There were some old-fashioned moments, and the "romance" is definitely clean compared to today's style. Although Rowdy is an alpha male, he's also willing to compromise, unlike many other heroes of this time period. This is a typical sweet Harlequin, and I enjoyed the wrap-up that was begun in the first two books. Excellent HEA.
March 8, 2026
This is a review on Valerie, Stephanie and Norah - trilogy by Debbie Macomber. Once I start reading a series I can’t seem to stop but I wish I had. I have to realize these books were written in the 90’s apparently where men could be a’holes and attract the most beautiful and educated women. Valerie was a great catch and her intended - an MD- wanted women his way or no way. Barefoot and pregnant and making a pie. Stefanie was extremely immature and short sighted and her intended man was probably the most normal. Norah fell in love with a real a’hole who miraculously changed due to her love. At least she set boundaries with him. I would like to read a Macomber romance where the women are mature and aren’t bowled over by arrogant men and where the men are actually decent human beings. Any suggestions?
August 31, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
July 25, 2019
Another cute romance by Debbie Macomber ... great read for a summer's hot day ... well written.
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July 1, 2013نورا:
ديبي ماكومبر
ستيفاني وجدت حب حياتها، وفاليري أيضاً.. ولم يبق إلا نورا! ولم تشعر يوماً بالوحدة كما تشعر بها الآن! فلم تلتقِ بعد بالرجل الذي يحرِّك قلبها.. لا أحد إطلاقاً! فمن أين سيأتي هذا المجهول؟ فجأة، اقتحم رجل الأحلام حياتها كالصاعقة، وأثار فيها عاصفة لم تهدأ من المشاعر، ولكنه لم يأتِ من أجل نورا رودي كاسيدي، التكساسي العنيف والمشاكس، جاء بطائرتها من أجل فاليري أختها، وهو يريد أن يمنع زواجها بالقوة.
ديبي ماكومبر
ستيفاني وجدت حب حياتها، وفاليري أيضاً.. ولم يبق إلا نورا! ولم تشعر يوماً بالوحدة كما تشعر بها الآن! فلم تلتقِ بعد بالرجل الذي يحرِّك قلبها.. لا أحد إطلاقاً! فمن أين سيأتي هذا المجهول؟ فجأة، اقتحم رجل الأحلام حياتها كالصاعقة، وأثار فيها عاصفة لم تهدأ من المشاعر، ولكنه لم يأتِ من أجل نورا رودي كاسيدي، التكساسي العنيف والمشاكس، جاء بطائرتها من أجل فاليري أختها، وهو يريد أن يمنع زواجها بالقوة.
September 21, 2019
The woman in these series always love the wrong man for them
March 15, 2023
This is complete and utter garbage. I picked it up to have a mindless romance read while I was on a plane and was incredibly disappointed when I spent my entire read frustrated and not sure why the main character was attracted to her love interest in the first place.
Because let's get this down- Rowdy Cassidy is a piece of shit. Rowdy is sexist and doesn't want to work with a married woman he had a crush on. Rowdy is a big baby and throws a tantrum whenever things don't go his way (and by the way, in Lone Star Lovin' he's hardly changed on that front). Rowdy is rude and uncaring, and doesn't ever give a shit about Norah's life or what she's doing. Rowdy is married to his business, except his business is boring and corporate. That might've worked if they expanded on WHY he loves his business, but no, it's because of money. Because Rowdy is a greedy man who shows his love with expensive things.
So you might wonder- why is Norah attracted to him? My only answer is that briefly mentioned in the book they seem to have some pleasant interactions, but we hardly see that in the text! Also, he's hot I guess? That's it! Rowdy acts like a preteen at a private school and Norah, a fully-trained medical nurse, falls head over heels. But I will say that it was hilarious how Rowdy's entire tragic backstory was revealed in a throwaway line. Any more tragic backstory and I think I would've rolled my eyes.
This book would've been miles better if Rowdy moved to Orchid Valley, if he gave up something for Norah. The business proposal scene was sweet, but in the end, Rowdy still got what he wanted. A wife. At times it felt like Norah was only marrying him to mother him, because she was worried about him, not because she wanted to marry him or anything.
Also, this book could never stand on its own. Too much of the book was rehashing the other two siblings in the series, and I feel like I lost a lot of context on Rowdy Cassidy because I didn't read Valerie beforehand. Norah should have had her own romance, rather than one with a big baby who got rejected in book one.
Norah also felt inconsistent throughout, rapidly changing between being mushy and falling into Rowdy's arms to hating him at the drop of a hat.
The brief mentions of the dad having met the mother in heaven and learning about who his children would marry and how many kids they'd have were a hilarious curveball to the romance though, and I highly appreciated the brief absurdity.
This book sucked, and I hope Norah divorces that man-child.
Because let's get this down- Rowdy Cassidy is a piece of shit. Rowdy is sexist and doesn't want to work with a married woman he had a crush on. Rowdy is a big baby and throws a tantrum whenever things don't go his way (and by the way, in Lone Star Lovin' he's hardly changed on that front). Rowdy is rude and uncaring, and doesn't ever give a shit about Norah's life or what she's doing. Rowdy is married to his business, except his business is boring and corporate. That might've worked if they expanded on WHY he loves his business, but no, it's because of money. Because Rowdy is a greedy man who shows his love with expensive things.
So you might wonder- why is Norah attracted to him? My only answer is that briefly mentioned in the book they seem to have some pleasant interactions, but we hardly see that in the text! Also, he's hot I guess? That's it! Rowdy acts like a preteen at a private school and Norah, a fully-trained medical nurse, falls head over heels. But I will say that it was hilarious how Rowdy's entire tragic backstory was revealed in a throwaway line. Any more tragic backstory and I think I would've rolled my eyes.
This book would've been miles better if Rowdy moved to Orchid Valley, if he gave up something for Norah. The business proposal scene was sweet, but in the end, Rowdy still got what he wanted. A wife. At times it felt like Norah was only marrying him to mother him, because she was worried about him, not because she wanted to marry him or anything.
Also, this book could never stand on its own. Too much of the book was rehashing the other two siblings in the series, and I feel like I lost a lot of context on Rowdy Cassidy because I didn't read Valerie beforehand. Norah should have had her own romance, rather than one with a big baby who got rejected in book one.
Norah also felt inconsistent throughout, rapidly changing between being mushy and falling into Rowdy's arms to hating him at the drop of a hat.
The brief mentions of the dad having met the mother in heaven and learning about who his children would marry and how many kids they'd have were a hilarious curveball to the romance though, and I highly appreciated the brief absurdity.
This book sucked, and I hope Norah divorces that man-child.
August 31, 2019
Read Valerie, then continued on with Steffie but Debbie Macomber saved the best for the last. All are excellent reading but to giggle & cry over a book speaks volumes.
This family is so loving and the Dad is so much of a hoot!! His calm demeaner of knowing after almost dying is so uplifting.
It was so sweet seeing a father's dreams for his three daughter's became a reality.
Rowdy was a soo busy (a bit egotistical) creating his company, he refused to make what is actually important in life that he did not know how there were many things for him to love besides growing his company.
Great story. I had difficult time setting book aside after starting to read. So Don't miss reading this brilliant author's works.
This family is so loving and the Dad is so much of a hoot!! His calm demeaner of knowing after almost dying is so uplifting.
It was so sweet seeing a father's dreams for his three daughter's became a reality.
Rowdy was a soo busy (a bit egotistical) creating his company, he refused to make what is actually important in life that he did not know how there were many things for him to love besides growing his company.
Great story. I had difficult time setting book aside after starting to read. So Don't miss reading this brilliant author's works.
June 20, 2022
Please don't let this end...
What a joy it was to read Norah's story after getting to know and love Valerie and Steffie. I feel like these 3sisters could be my own friends!
Determined to stop Valerie from marrying Colby, Rowdy, Valerie s former boss decides to crash the wedding...and crash he does...but not the wedding! He crashed his plane! Norah is in the emergency room the night it happened and was unaware of his identity until her shift was nearly over. He was in critical condition. Should she let Valerie know or wait until tomorrow...after her wedding?
These 3 stories have been a joy and a pleasure to read. They are wholesome and beautifully penned. I highly recommend this series to anyone who still believes in love.
What a joy it was to read Norah's story after getting to know and love Valerie and Steffie. I feel like these 3sisters could be my own friends!
Determined to stop Valerie from marrying Colby, Rowdy, Valerie s former boss decides to crash the wedding...and crash he does...but not the wedding! He crashed his plane! Norah is in the emergency room the night it happened and was unaware of his identity until her shift was nearly over. He was in critical condition. Should she let Valerie know or wait until tomorrow...after her wedding?
These 3 stories have been a joy and a pleasure to read. They are wholesome and beautifully penned. I highly recommend this series to anyone who still believes in love.
September 2, 2017
This is an older Harlequin Romance, and seems to be part of a series. Didn't read the 1st 2, but enjoyed this one anyway. Norah was in her 2 sisters weddings, and seems left out.
Gosh she is a nurse and enjoys her job. When she discovers her new patient is no other than her sisters old boss, no idea of him even falling for her.
Their road is not as easy one, Rowdy is married to his work, and thinks everything should go as he wants. Well Norah not a pushover. Is there someway things will work out for them??
Gosh she is a nurse and enjoys her job. When she discovers her new patient is no other than her sisters old boss, no idea of him even falling for her.
Their road is not as easy one, Rowdy is married to his work, and thinks everything should go as he wants. Well Norah not a pushover. Is there someway things will work out for them??
November 4, 2021
Ugh. There is absolutely nothing to love about the "hero" in this story. In fact, Rowdy is childish, selfish, manipulative and hot-tempered. It just makes Norah seem pathetic to keep being drawn to him. And in the epilogue he's done a complete 180 and is perfect (all us gals who have ever tried to change a man know that's a pipe dream). Need to put a little more effort into character development.
September 5, 2017
Наивно глуповата история без всякаква романтика. От тази поредица съм чела също втората книга и беше с една идея по-интересна.
February 11, 2018
I loved the story in this book.
Shows that corporate success and the pursuit of work goals is not everything in life. and money can't always buy what you really want.
Shows that corporate success and the pursuit of work goals is not everything in life. and money can't always buy what you really want.
December 4, 2018
Reviewed It
Sweet story but often read like a children’s book with overly simplified conversations and/or character ‘thoughts’...seemed almost choppy in writing style at times.
Sweet story but often read like a children’s book with overly simplified conversations and/or character ‘thoughts’...seemed almost choppy in writing style at times.
March 9, 2019
This was a fun read, but I thought the ending was a little contrived. The book provides good escape and is a safe read.
February 13, 2020
I read this trilogy back to back and I guess this one was the best because you had the background and follow up to the first two stories in this book.
February 26, 2020
OMG!!! I was laughing at parts. I thought it was funny how the rich cowboy acted when he figured out his love. Norah deserves so much love. She is always helping others.
October 24, 2023
A cozy little romance novel.
August 3, 2025
I had to DNF this… I could not stand Rowdy and Norah
October 10, 2025
Great book!
You need to read the whole series. It just builds from one to the next. This is 3 in the series. Debbie always does a great job!!
You need to read the whole series. It just builds from one to the next. This is 3 in the series. Debbie always does a great job!!
November 3, 2023
Norah (10/31/23-11/1/23 read) one-of four books, three of which are about each sister. Norah is the youngest sister. Great easy read, with some companionable twists and turns. Enjoyed as always because I enjoy Debbie Macomber’s writing style. Interesting how she wove this from Valerie into Norah.
December 19, 2020
STAR audiobook reported as damaged.
June 13, 2025
Great series wish it hadn't ended. Such a great read
March 7, 2017
Love this series.
October 11, 2022
It’s really a 3 1/2 stars rather than 4 stars…but with this system there’s not that option. While I enjoyed this book…I felt something was missing…Rowdy’s point of view. He comes off as an arrogant asshole throughout the book. I wish the book could’ve tapped into him more. Another issue, I read the book from an anthology, all 4 books in one. The anthology version of Norah is 177pages, but the regular $5.99 book is 400pagrs supposedly…was 1/2 the book cut out? Just wondering.
Also, I’m a 56yr old retired Licensed Practical Nurse. It is unethical for a nurse to kiss a patient while he’s under her car and or in the hospital where she’s one of his nurses. Also, if a competent and alert patient refuses a medication, even if in their best interest to take it. If the nurse then holds him down and gives it as occurred in this book, that’s called assault and a nurse can be criminally charged. I tried not to let it bother me, but it did.
Like I said, I did enjoy this book, which is why I gave it 4 stars rather than 3 for my 3 1/2 stars. I wish it could’ve been more and lived up to its potential, but it didn’t. Will I reread this book? Probably. Would I recommend this book? Yes, after informing a person of the issues I had with it. Debbie Macomber is an author I have read for many years and enjoy her. This story did seem watered down and could’ve been more. Maybe because it’s a novella, it had to be that way? I don’t know.
Also, I’m a 56yr old retired Licensed Practical Nurse. It is unethical for a nurse to kiss a patient while he’s under her car and or in the hospital where she’s one of his nurses. Also, if a competent and alert patient refuses a medication, even if in their best interest to take it. If the nurse then holds him down and gives it as occurred in this book, that’s called assault and a nurse can be criminally charged. I tried not to let it bother me, but it did.
Like I said, I did enjoy this book, which is why I gave it 4 stars rather than 3 for my 3 1/2 stars. I wish it could’ve been more and lived up to its potential, but it didn’t. Will I reread this book? Probably. Would I recommend this book? Yes, after informing a person of the issues I had with it. Debbie Macomber is an author I have read for many years and enjoy her. This story did seem watered down and could’ve been more. Maybe because it’s a novella, it had to be that way? I don’t know.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2013
Apparently, this book has been updated and re-released (with a much better cover, LOL!). I looked this one up and it was published in the early 90's by Harlequin, but it still read like a typical Debbie Macomber book to me. I downloaded a digital copy from my library, and even though it's part of a series, I was able to easily follow along. I've always found that with her books, and I enjoy that.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews