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Forget the Fairy Tale and Find Your Happiness

Published by She Writes Press
Distributed by Simon & Schuster

About The Book

In this uplifting debut memoir perfect for fans of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Deb Miller discards the myth of Prince Charming once she realizes he can’t get her to happily ever after and instead gets on the white horse herself, safely straps her kids on behind her, and figures out how to get there on her own.

In Forget the Fairy Tale and Find Your Happiness, Deb Miller learns to slay the myth of Prince Charming and redefine what it means to live happily ever after.

When Deb’s college sweetheart can’t deliver the fairy tale she expects, she takes charge and creates her own. Her love of tennis opens new professional doors but also leads to a tumultuous second marriage. This powerful memoir chronicles her transformation from a Midwest housewife to a global executive as she navigates societal expectations, personal setbacks, and professional triumphs.

Throughout her journey, Deb draws fascinating parallels with Disney’s ever-evolving princesses, who have moved from damsels in distress to courageous, independent characters who embrace their unique strengths and forge their own paths. Along Deb’s winding, bumpy course to happiness, she learns a few lessons worth sharing. Her story will empower other women who might be taking a different path than the traditional one they were taught to tread. This is her tale of resilience, pursuing a better life for her children, and finding genuine happiness for herself.

About The Author

Deb Miller’s life is a tapestry of adventure and achievement, weaving together experiences from her small-town Indiana roots to business opportunities in Red Square. Her job as a hardworking Fortune 500 executive led to her rappelling the Great Wall and riding elephants in India, all while remaining a devoted mom. Now a part-time marketing professor, she cherishes the opportunity to learn from her global students as well as her beloved children and grandchildren. Deb resides in an enchanted forest outside of Seattle, where the landscaping projects are endless and enjoyable.

Product Details

  • Publisher: She Writes Press (June 24, 2025)
  • Length: 256 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781647429232

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Raves and Reviews

"Despite being taught to believe in princes on white horses saving the day, Deb Miller manages to teach herself (and her readers) to ride her own horse. With character and strength, Deb breaks out of tired traditions while embracing a very important one: motherhood. An inspiring read!”—Brenda Chapman, writer/director of Disney Pixar’s Brave

"Pure magic! Deb Miller's story is proof that we live our best lives when we refuse to settle for less than we deserve. Inspiring and powerful; every woman should read this."—Jill Zarin, author, entrepreneur, and original cast member of The Real Housewives of New York City

Forget the Fairy Tale and Find Your Happiness urges women to question, challenge, and ultimately transcend the fairytales that have long dictated women’s lives.”— Readers' Favorite, 5-star review

“In Miller’s inspiring account of finding happiness outside of societal expectations, she reminds readers—and herself—that ‘my happiness is up to me.’”—BookLife Reviews

Forget the Fairy Tale & Find Your Happiness is a hopeful memoir about claiming ownership over one’s life.”Forward Clarion Reviews

“With humor, heart, and a keen eye for cultural commentary, Miller’s narrative shines as a beacon for those embracing life’s complexities and chasing authentic joy.”—Kristina Amelong, author of What My Brother Knew, A Memoir

“For anyone who has struggled in a dysfunctional relationship, Deb Miller’s memoir offers hope. Even if you’ve tried more times than you can count to extricate yourself, it is still possible to break free from outmoded expectations and discover your true identity. A passionate and engaging read.”—Jude Berman, author of The Die and The Vow

“Beautifully told, Deb Miller’s story illustrates the shift from dependence to strength and self-reliance. It offers an entertaining and thought-provoking reflection on how societal expectations shape both fictional princesses and real women. I highly recommend this captivating read.”—Jelaine Lombardi, author of Running Around Naked: A Memoir

“Written with honesty, depth, and courage, Deb Miller's engaging memoir is a cautionary tale for all ages. Many readers will identify with her struggle against the pervasive pull of cultural expectation and be inspired to chart their own life's path.”—Dianne Ebertt Beeaff, author of Infinite Paradise, Witnessing the Wild

“Brilliantly weaving her own courageous story with those of fairytale princesses, Miller cleverly winds through decades of pain, joy, heartbreak and healing. I could not put down this glorious memoir.”—Marty Ross-Dolen, author of Always There, Always Gone

“Although women have come a long way, they still need to hear the wisdom in Miller’s story: be the CEO of your own life.”—Bonnie Comfort, author of Staying Married is the Hardest Part

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