Books Like...
If you liked Dating-ish, here are the top 100 books to read next:
(We also have 100 recommendations for the series: Knitting in the City)
- #1
A beautifully written, steamy and heartfelt romance that transports you to a cozy bookshop in Big Sur - perfect for those who crave poetic prose, high spice, and the magic of opposites attracting.
Bohemian by Kathryn Nolan is a contemporary romance novel that follows the story of Lucia Bell, a supermodel, and Calvin Ellis, a shy bookstore owner in Big Sur. The book explores the unlikely romance between these two characters who come from different worlds but find a deep connection over their shared love for poetry and literature. As they navigate their relationship, the story delves into themes of authenticity, self-discovery, and the transformative power of love. The writing style of the book is described as poetic and evocative, transporting readers to the picturesque setting of a bohemian bookstore in Big Sur through vivid descriptions and heartfelt prose.
“He didn’t succeed—obviously,” I said, and I saw a few smiles, “but the evidence is captured in this grainy, black-and-white photograph that’s framed on a wall in the bookstore. In it, Ginsberg is lau...September 2017•338 pages - #2
A fun, unique, super-steamy novella that's like Big Bang Theory meets 50 Shades - adorable, nerdy, and spicy, with just enough romance to make you swoon.
'The Theory of Attraction' by Delphine Dryden is a romance novel that follows the story of Camilla, a social anthropologist computer programmer, and Ivan, a genius rocket scientist with an extremely ordered life. Camilla helps Ivan prepare for a fundraiser to secure his tenure at the university, leading to a deeper connection between the two characters. The book explores themes of BDSM, geek culture, and character development. The writing style is engaging, with witty humor and steamy sex scenes that develop the characters' relationship in a unique and compelling way.
Still two digits, though, no big deal for Houston in August. It felt like melting when you stepped outside, but you were just supposed to pretend like it was not all that hot. People would assure you...October 2012•384 pages - #3
A sweet, nerdy, and steamy office romance with memorable characters - though not everyone will love the boss/assistant setup or the power imbalance. Comes highly recommended for sports romance and Sarina Bowen fans!
In "Brooklynaire," readers are taken on a journey through the evolving friendship and budding romance between Nate and Becca, two characters who struggle to navigate their feelings for each other amidst their professional relationship. The story is filled with flashbacks that provide depth to their connection, intertwined with themes of friendship, love, and self-discovery. The narrative explores the challenges of balancing personal desires with professional responsibilities, all set against the backdrop of a hockey team and a billionaire's world.
The book delves into themes of friendship, love, and self-discovery, weaving a tale of two individuals who must confront their feelings for each other while navigating the complexities of their professional relationship. Through flashbacks and present-day interactions, readers witness the evolution of Nate and Becca's bond, filled with humor, heartwarming moments, and palpable chemistry. Sarina Bowen's writing style intricately blends romance, humor, and character development, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
Luckily, the office was just another block away. Her job didn’t often call for heels and a suit, but today she needed to look authoritative. That wasn’t easy when you were five-feet-three-inches tall,...2018•298 pages - #4
A weirdly wonderful, heartfelt, and funny romance that’s all about breaking molds - Beard Science is a fan-favorite in the Winston Brothers universe for a reason. If you enjoy smart, character-driven love stories with plenty of awkward charm, give this one a try.
Beard Science by Penny Reid, part of the Winston Brothers series, follows the story of Cletus Winston, the oddball of the six brothers, and Jennifer Sylvester, the Banana Cake Queen. Jennifer blackmails Cletus into helping her, leading to unexpected developments in their relationship. The book is described as a mix of humor, romance, and depth, with well-thought-out characters and a plot that keeps readers engaged. The writing style is praised for its uniqueness and the way it portrays the growth of the characters, particularly Cletus and Jennifer.
If I had to bake cake Ipreferred not to bake in large batches. That’s like batch-raisingkids, expecting them to think and behave exactly alike, or tryingto swim across every lake in East Tennessee at... - #5
A sweet, comforting holiday romance with all the small-town, friends-to-lovers feels - cozy, charming, and a great pick-me-up read, especially if you love your romance with a festive backdrop.
Stella owns a struggling Christmas tree farm that she enters into a social media competition, lying about having a boyfriend to help her win. Her best friend Luka steps in as the fake boyfriend, leading to a journey of fake dating, friends to lovers, and shared history. The book is described as heartwarming, mood-enhancing, and a story of dreams coming true, both personally and professionally, with a cozy setting and lovable characters.
There’s this bar in the city that Luka and I like to go to. The beer is cheap, the floors are sticky, and when I kick the jukebox in the bottom right corner, it’ll play Ella Fitzgerald thirteen times...November 2021•355 pages - #6
Touch-starved, grumpy hero meets sunshine, fiercely affectionate heroine in a whirlwind, steamy romance. If you love lots of cuddles, banter, and fast-falling love, don’t let the title scare you off - this one’s a fan favorite!
'Boss in the Bedsheets' by Kate Canterbary is an office romance novel that follows the story of Ash and Zelda, two flawed individuals who meet on a plane and are brought together by fate. The book explores their relationship as it quickly develops over a weekend, showcasing a mix of quirky and straight-laced characters. The romance is described as organic, with a unique power dynamic that doesn't feel weird. The setting in Boston adds depth to the story, although some readers found the transportation choices unrealistic for the city.
The writing style of 'Boss in the Bedsheets' is praised for its nuanced and refreshing approach to character development. The female main character, Zelda, is portrayed as sunshine with a backbone, showcasing a balance between being upbeat and standing up for herself. The book delves into themes of finding self-balance and advocating for one's interests, adding substance to the romance plot.
I made a point of arriving at the airport two hours before my flight. That was my way and I didn't care whether it was excessive. Two hours meant plenty of time to unpack my entire life at the securit...June 2020•398 pages - #7
A laugh-out-loud, swoony, and super cute rom-com that’s perfect for anyone craving a sweet and sexy friends-to-lovers romance. Not flawless, but full of charm and the kind of chemistry you can’t fake.
Not So Nice Guy by R.S. Grey is a romantic comedy centered around the friendship between Sam and Ian, who teach at the same high school. Both secretly harbor feelings for each other but are afraid of risking their friendship. When a rumor spreads that they are dating, it forces them to confront their true emotions. The book is filled with humor, banter, and a slow burn friends-to-lovers storyline that keeps the readers engaged. The writing style is light-hearted, funny, and characterized by witty dialogue and endearing characters like Sam and Ian.
This morning, we’re having sex inside the army barracks again. It’s hot and heavy. The enemy is advancing—we might not make it out alive. Explosions rumble in the sky and in my pants. I’m sweating. Ia...August 2018•285 pages - #8
A funny, feel-good college rom-com with an underdog you’ll want to hug, but not without a few missteps in tone and pacing. Great for fans of slow-burn friends-to-lovers, but might frustrate those looking for tighter storytelling or more serious treatment of early plot points.
'The Guy on the Right' by Kate Stewart is a heartwarming and humorous college romance that follows the story of Laney and Theo. Laney, a fun and independent woman, meets Theo, a charming underdog, in an unexpected encounter that sparks a unique friendship between them. As they navigate their feelings and the complexities of relationships, they discover a connection that transcends their differences. Kate Stewart's writing style beautifully captures the growth of their relationship, blending funny, sexy, and dramatic moments that keep readers engaged from start to finish.
College Station, Texas, population 113,564 and I’ve finally got a match. It’s not something I’m used to, but my luck’s been changing for the past few months, and seemingly for the better. It only took...July 2019•362 pages - #9
A heartwarming, low-angst, slow-burn romance that’s big on real feelings and lovable adult characters - perfect for readers craving something sweet, relatable, and full of friendship (just ignore the dog on the cover!).
Brooklyn shop owner Mary Trace, a 37-year-old single woman, agrees to a blind date with public defender John Modesto Whitford. Their initial meeting goes awry due to John's comment about Mary's age, but thanks to some meddling from John's mother, they end up becoming friends and eventually more than friends. The book explores themes of second chances, mutual pining, and friends-to-lovers romance, with both main characters portrayed as sweet and endearing individuals with their own insecurities and fears. The story is a heartwarming modern romance with a slow burn that allows readers to get to know John and Mary intimately as their relationship develops over time.
Cara Bastone weaves a wonderful story in "Flirting With Forever," featuring fully fleshed-out characters facing real-life challenges, insecurities, and feelings. The book follows the journey of John and Mary as they navigate misunderstandings, insecurities, and differences in their lifestyles, gradually building a deep and meaningful relationship. The writing style is engaging, with a focus on character development, romance, and tension, making it a recommended read for fans of contemporary romance.
MARY TRACE WAS one of those freaks of nature who actually loved first dates. She knew she was an anomaly, should maybe even be studied by scientists, but she couldn’t help herself. She loved the myste...January 2021•376 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Forever Yours ) - #10
A wonderfully original, slow-burn romance brimming with heartfelt moments and creative flair - perfect for those who savor character-driven stories with quirky, realistic leads and a big helping of Brooklyn atmosphere.
'Love Lettering' by Kate Clayborn is a contemporary romance that follows Meg, a talented hand lettering designer, and Reid, a numbers guy. Their unique relationship starts when Meg hides a message in Reid's wedding invitation, leading to the unraveling of his engagement. As they navigate through personal and professional challenges in New York City, their rocky journey from strangers to lovers is portrayed with depth and authenticity. The writing style is described as engaging, with a focus on the characters' growth, friendships, and the city setting, creating a charming and unique love story.
for the upcoming month, big enough that the A crosses the center line. It’s such a . . . such a short word, not a lot of possibility in it, not like my clients who’ve wanted a nice spring motif before...December 2019•337 pages











