You Were Always the One

Publication date: 05/10/2026

Reader community: Shelf Care Club

You Were Always the One

Debbie Howells

RRP: £1.99

ISBN: 9781837037582

RRP: £18.99

ISBN: 9781837037544

RRP: £10.99

ISBN: 9781837037568

344 pages

RRP: £26.99

ISBN: 9781837037575

480 pages

ISBN: 9781837037506

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is "You Were Always the One" about?

Discover the next BRAND NEW heartbreaking, utterly unforgettable read from Debbie Howells, author of For One Moment With You

He’s the one she walked away from. She’s the one he never forgot…

Eighteen years ago, Holly broke up with the love of her life, Riggs, so she could become the ‘grown-up’ she felt ready to be. Then Miles came into her life, with the promise of everything they could be together. And for a long time, their home and family felt like enough.

But now Miles has betrayed Holly, and she finds herself questioning everything she thought she knew about love, marriage and happiness.

And then she bumps into a stranger on the street. Except it’s not a stranger. It’s Riggs. And one look at him is enough to tell her – she never stopped loving him. But is it enough for her to contemplate leaving the life she’s built, even if it no longer makes her happy?

Determined to be honest with herself and with Miles, Holly starts thinking about a very different future. But then Miles makes an announcement that changes everything…

You Were Always the One is a heartbreaking – but ultimately uplifting – story about family, forgiveness, and the complicated choices love can force us to make.

Readers love Debbie Howells:

‘This book tugged on all my heartstrings. It was so beautifully written… I cried a lot. I can see this as film!’ Lucy Mitchell, author

A massive WOW! An emotional journey of heartbreak, grief and loss… A powerful, magical and quite simply beautiful read… You will lose your heart to this wonderfully touching and bittersweet tale.’ Reader Review

Wow… this book. It’s very rare that a book captivates me from the first few pages alone, but this one definitely did. This was so beautifully written and so well thought out. I flew through it. It’s a raw story of friendship, love, grief, and so much more… Incredible.’ Reader Review ‘Oh boy! It’s poignant, it’s raw, it’s blooming emotional. Tissues at the ready… We don’t know what may be around the corner… A stunning read, one that took my breath away. Very highly recommended.’ Reader Review

A book that made me cry so much… about soulmates and friendship. I loved it.’ Reader Review

Such a moving story, have tissues nearby.** This could easily be a read that’ll make you cry!… Inspirational… You never know what fate will put in your way… A story of love, of loss and more.’ Reader Review

Who wrote "You Were Always the One"?

"You Were Always the One" was written by Debbie Howells.

Debbie Howells is a Sunday Times bestseller, who now writes heartfelt women's fiction with award-winning publisher Boldwood. She has perviously worked as cabin crew, a flying instructor, and a wedding florist! Now living in the countryside with her partner and Bean the rescued cat, Debbie spends her time writing.