The Recommended Reading Order for the Most Likely To Series
To fully experience the emotional growth of the main characters and keep up with the small-town mystery subplot, we recommend reading the Most Likely To series in its publication order. Because the three main characters—Melanie, Zoe, and Jo—are close friends who frequently appear in each other's stories, reading the books in order provides the best continuity. Here is the recommended path:
- Doing It Over (Published: April 2016)
- Staying for Good (Published: January 2017)
- Making It Right (Published: July 2017)
Why the Publication Order is Essential
Although each book focuses on a different couple and resolves their primary romance, the overarching narrative of the trilogy benefits greatly from being read in order. The stories are set in River Bend, Oregon, and follow three childhood friends who are dealing with the legacy of their high school superlatives ten years later. Reading the books sequentially allows you to watch their friendships evolve, understand the references to past events, and follow Jo Ward's ongoing investigation into her family's history, which culminates in the final book.
Deep Dive into the Trilogy
1. Doing It Over (2016)
The series begins with Melanie Bartlett, who was voted 'Most Likely to Succeed' in high school. However, ten years later, she returns to River Bend as a struggling single mother after her marriage falls apart. Returning to her hometown feels like a step backward, but Melanie is determined to build a new life for herself and her young daughter. She meets Wyatt Gibson, a local builder who is also seeking a fresh start. The novel focuses heavily on second-chance romance, community support, and the challenges of starting over. The chemistry between Melanie and Wyatt establishes the warm, small-town tone that defines the series.
2. Staying for Good (2017)
The second book shifts focus to Zoe Brown, who was voted 'Most Likely to Never Leave River Bend.' Irony prevails as Zoe leaves the town to become a highly successful celebrity chef. When she eventually returns to River Bend to establish a local restaurant, she must face the domestic abuse and family trauma she left behind. Her return also forces her to confront Luke Miller, her high school sweetheart whom she left without explanation. This installment deals with sensitive themes of domestic violence, healing, and forgiveness, balancing emotional weight with a heartwarming romance.
3. Making It Right (2017)
The trilogy concludes with Jo Ward, the rebellious friend voted 'Most Likely to End Up in Jail.' Instead, Jo has become the town sheriff. As she works to uncover the truth behind her father's suspicious death, she crosses paths with federal agent Gill Clausen. This final book shifts the series into a romantic suspense territory. The mystery surrounding Jo's father ties together loose ends from the previous books, making it a thrilling and satisfying conclusion to the trilogy.
What to Know Before You Start
The Most Likely To series blends traditional contemporary romance with suspense and emotional drama. Catherine Bybee uses her background to address serious topics such as domestic violence, single parenthood, and family grief with empathy and care. The fictional setting of River Bend, Oregon, acts as a character itself, providing a cozy backdrop to the intense personal struggles of the protagonists. If you enjoy authors who combine strong female friendships with protective heroes and a touch of mystery, this trilogy is a perfect fit.