Otherwise Engaged
- Authors: Susan Mallery
- Series:
- Genres: General Fiction
- Rank:
- Rating:
- Release Date: November 4, 2025
- Print length: 368 pages (Hardcover)
About the book
A twisty, tender and wise look at how secrets can transform the powerful—and sometimes problematic—bond between mothers and daughters, from #1 New York Times bestselling author Susan Mallery.
Upon getting engaged, Shannon immediately thinks of telling her dear mother, Cindy, but decides against it. Cindy is also engaged and has mentioned the idea of a joint wedding. Shannon is horrified by the thought of a synchronized bouquet toss with her mom and decides to keep her engagement a secret until after Cindy's wedding.
Victoria has never met her mother, Ava's, expectations and has stopped trying to impress her. She lives life on her own terms and enjoys poking fun at Ava. Despite loving her stuntwoman daughter, Ava struggles to understand Victoria. When Victoria returns home after a mishap on a movie set, Ava hopes for a chance to finally bond with her.
A chance encounter at a wedding venue brings the four women together and reveals a shocking secret. Twenty-four years ago, a young Cindy chose wealthy Ava to adopt her baby but then changed her mind at the last moment. This decision had a profound impact on Ava, making it difficult for her to fully connect with the daughter she did adopt, Victoria. As Shannon and Victoria navigate the aftermath of their mothers' choices, they grapple with questions of identity and who they could have been.