Forget the Fairy Tale and Find Your Happiness - by Deb Miller (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

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.

Forget the Fairy Tale and Find Your Happiness is part personal growth guide, part motivational memoir, and all heart. When Deb's college sweetheart can't deliver the fairy tale she expected, she takes charge and writes a new one. Her passion for tennis opens unexpected doors--from motherhood and midwestern housewife life to global marketing exec. Along the way to pursuing a better life for her children and chasing her own version of fulfillment, she experiences the turbulence of divorce and the thrill of reinvention.

Through it all, Deb draws rich parallels with the evolving Disney princesses--from Snow White to Moana--who, like her, break free of outdated roles and embrace self-discovery, resilience, and independence. This empowering story challenges societal expectations for women and encourages readers to rewrite their happily ever after and be their own hero.

Whether you're navigating single parenting, pursuing your own transformation, or simply craving an inspiring story of self-help and second chances, Forget the Fairy Tale is your permission slip to take control of your narrative--and find joy on your own terms.

Review Quotes

"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."--Foreword Clarion Reviews

"Deb Miller cleverly mines the lore of the ubiquitous princess fairy tale to examine her own life and relationships. By acknowledging the clichés of these stories, including in Disney's beloved animated versions, the author reminds us that we can't always tread along the same narrative paths. She generates her own lessons from her experiences rather than falling into the trap of these archetypal characters, encouraging readers to embrace a happy ending that might not look like the one they expected."--Emily Zemler, author of Disney Princess: Beyond the Tiara

"With humor, heart, and unflinching honesty, this book is an invitation to every woman to rewrite her own story and find the courage to live authentically. If you've ever questioned the script society handed you, this book will inspire you to let it go and write your own."--Keri Wilt, podcaster

"Deb Miller's extraordinary and invaluable insights guide women toward finding happiness by rejecting societal expectations and not depending on men to be heroes on white horses."--Jack Zipes, Professor Emeritus at the University of Minnesota, and author of Fairy Tales and the Art of Subversion and Breaking the Magic Spell

"A memoir about following what Miller thinks her dreams should be, only to find there are far better dreams to be had. I love how Miller braided the evolution of the Disney princesses with her own evolution. What a life she has had! Fun read. Inspiring and uplifting."--Lisa Cheek, author of Sit, Cinderella, Sit

"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

"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

"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

"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

"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

"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

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.