Books Like...
"The Bride Test" by Helen Hoang follows the story of Khai, an autistic man who believes he is incapable of love, and Esme, an immigrant from Vietnam who is determined to make him fall in love with her to provide a better life for her daughter. Khai's mother arranges for Esme to come to California for the summer to see if they are a suitable match. The book explores their relationship dynamics, vulnerabilities, and the challenges they face in understanding and expressing their emotions. The writing style is described as engaging, with a focus on character development and emotional growth, particularly in portraying Khai's journey in recognizing his capacity for love despite his beliefs.
If you liked The Bride Test, here are the top 100 books to read next:
(We also have 100 recommendations for the series: The Kiss Quotient)
- #1
Archer's Voice by Mia Sheridan is a heartwarming story about Archer Hale, a nonverbal outcast who finds solace in the presence of Bree Prescott as they both heal from their past traumas and build a deep connection. The book explores themes of love, acceptance, and healing in a small town setting, where secrets and betrayals add to the emotional depth of the story. The writing style is described as beautiful, emotional, and swoon-worthy, capturing the journey of Archer and Bree as they navigate their pasts to find a brighter future together.
Grab my hand! I got you,” I said real soft, the helicopter lifting off the ground as Duke grabbed Snake Eyes’s hand. I was trying to play as quiet as I could—my mama was banged up again and I didn’t w... - #2
Act Your Age, Eve Brown by Talia Hibbert is the third book in 'The Brown Sisters' series, focusing on the youngest Brown sister, Eve, who is struggling to find her place in the world. When her parents cut her off financially until she can hold down a job for a year, Eve embarks on a journey that leads her to a charming B&B in a small town. There, she meets Jacob Wayne, the owner of the B&B, and despite their differences, they develop an undeniable chemistry. The book explores themes of self-discovery, love, and acceptance, with a steamy romance featuring two neurodiverse characters on the autism spectrum.
Diaries were horribly organized and awfully prescriptive. They involved dates and plans and regular entries and the suffocating weight of commitment. Journals, on the other hand, were deliciously wild...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Brown Sisters ) - #3
'Get a Life, Chloe Brown' by Talia Hibbert follows the story of Chloe Brown, a quirky web designer living with chronic health issues, who embarks on a journey to break out from her boring life. She creates a list of new experiences to try and enlists the help of Redford Morgan, the building superintendent, to guide her. Despite starting out as adversaries, Chloe and Red's relationship progresses believably, leading to a cute and steamy romance. The book skillfully weaves in themes of chronic pain, abusive relationships, and disability, all while maintaining a balance between humor and meaningful discussions.
The writing style in 'Get a Life, Chloe Brown' is described as charming, funny, and heartwarming. The characters, especially Chloe and Red, are portrayed as real, funny, and troubled individuals rather than perfect romance stereotypes. The novel delves into important topics like chronic pain and abusive relationships with care and emotional intelligence, making it a refreshing and engaging contemporary romance read.
“You’re the best superintendent we’ve ever had,” she cooed from the bathroom doorway, clasping one wrinkled hand to her bony chest. Her shock of white hair fairly quivered with emotion. Bit of a drama... - #4
The Rosie Project is a humorous romantic comedy that follows the story of Don Tillman, a professor with Asperger's who embarks on a quest to find a wife through his scientifically designed Wife Project. However, his plans get derailed when he meets Rosie, a free-spirited doctoral student seeking her biological father. As Don assists Rosie in her search, misunderstandings and comedic situations ensue, reminiscent of romantic comedy movies. The book provides an unconventional love story that delves into themes of social skills, judgment, and understanding relationships.
Graeme Simsion's writing style in The Rosie Project is described as witty, clever, and insightful, making it an entertaining and light read. The character of Don Tillman, akin to Sheldon from "The Big Bang Theory," is portrayed as socially inept yet endearing, navigating life with his unique perspective and logical approach. The book offers a blend of humor, romance, and introspection, creating a charming narrative that explores themes of love, acceptance, and personal growth.
I may have found a solution to the Wife Problem. As with so many scientific breakthroughs, the answer was obvious in retrospect. But had it not been for a series of unscheduled events, it is unlikely ... - #5
Neanderthal Seeks Human by Penny Reid is a romantic comedy that follows the quirky and socially awkward Janie Morris who, after losing her boyfriend, job, and apartment in a single day, finds herself entangled with the mysterious and handsome Quinn Sullivan. The story revolves around their unconventional relationship, filled with humor, quirky characters, and unexpected twists. Penny Reid's writing style is described as smart, funny, and engaging, with a touch of wackiness that keeps the readers entertained and emotionally invested in the journey of Janie and Quinn.
Sitting on the toilet, I started to panic when I noticed the graveyard of empty toilet paper rolls. The brown cylinders had ostensibly been placed vertically to form a half oval on top of the flat shi... "Josh and Hazel's Guide to Not Dating" by Christina Lauren is a romantic comedy that follows the quirky and eccentric Hazel as she reconnects with Josh, her college acquaintance, years later. The story revolves around their hilarious plan to set each other up on blind double dates, which leads to everyone around them questioning why they aren't dating each other. The plot is filled with humor, awkward moments, and heartwarming interactions between the characters, making it a fun and enjoyable read for fans of contemporary romance.
Anyone who knew me in college might be horrified to hear that I ended up employed as an elementary school teacher, responsible for educating our wide-eyed, sponge-brained youth, but in truth, I suspec...- #7
'Always Only You' by Chloe Liese is a heartwarming romance novel that follows the story of Frankie, a social media marketer for a hockey team, and Ren, one of the star players on the team. Frankie, who is on the autism spectrum and deals with arthritis, struggles to let Ren into her life despite his unwavering affection towards her. The book beautifully portrays their evolving relationship, delving into themes of acceptance, love, and personal growth. The detailed sports aspect adds depth to Ren's character, making the story engaging and relatable. Chloe Liese's writing style shines in accurately representing autism and chronic illness, creating a perfect blend of insight, inclusivity, and romance.
In the three years I’ve known him, I’ve seen him not smiling twice. Once, when he was unconscious on the ice, so I hardly think that counts, and the other time, when an extreme fan shoved her way thro...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Bergman Brothers ) - #8
"The Deal" by Elle Kennedy is a new adult romance novel that follows the story of Hannah, a music major with a traumatic past, and Garrett, the captain of the hockey team. When Garrett needs help with his grades, he strikes a deal with Hannah to tutor him in exchange for his assistance in attracting her crush. As they spend time together, their chemistry grows, leading to a complex and heartwarming romance. The plotline may seem familiar, but the well-written banter and character development make this book a captivating and enjoyable read.
The writing style of Elle Kennedy in "The Deal" is praised for its ability to address dark themes such as abuse and trauma with care and finesse. The characters, Hannah and Garrett, are portrayed as flawed yet relatable individuals who find solace and growth in each other. The book explores themes of friendship, trust, and overcoming past struggles, all while delivering a fun and engaging college romance story.
For the millionth time in forty-five minutes, I sneak a peek in Justin Kohl’s direction, and he’s so beautiful it makes my throat close up. Though I should probably come up with another adjective—my m... - #9
Act Like It follows the story of stage actress Elaine who is pressured into a fake relationship with her grumpy co-star Richard in order to improve his public image and boost ticket sales for their play. Despite their initial reluctance, Elaine and Richard's banter and interactions lead to a developing relationship that surprises them both. Set in London's West End, the book explores the complexities of high-profile careers, fake relationships turning real, and the dynamics of the theater world.
Almost every night, between nine and ten past, Lainie Graham passionately kissed her ex-boyfriend. She was then gruesomely dead by ten o’clock, stabbed through the neck by a jealous rival. If she was ... - #10
"The Wedding Date" by Jasmine Guillory is a delightful romantic comedy that follows the story of Alexa Monroe and Drew Nichols. The two characters meet in an elevator, leading to a fake wedding date and a growing relationship despite living 500 miles apart. The plot involves themes of love, career, and racial differences, with a writing style that is light, fun, and easy to read. explores the challenges of a long-distance relationship and the development of the characters' romance through humor, passion, and heartfelt moments.
Alexa Monroe walked into the Fairmont hotel in San Francisco that Thursday night wearing her favorite red heels, feeling jittery from coffee, and carrying a bottle of Veuve Clicquot champagne in her p...