Books Like...
'Paradise' by Judith McNaught follows the love story between Meredith Bancroft and Matt Farrell, two individuals from different social classes who are drawn to each other despite numerous obstacles. The plot delves into their childhood backgrounds, their struggles in adult life, and the challenges they face in their relationship, including betrayal, family dynamics, and societal expectations. The writing style of the book is described as emotionally engaging, well-paced, and involving elements of love, class mobility, and heartwrenching emotions that keep readers invested in the story.
If you liked Paradise, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
The Sweet Gum Tree by Katherine Allred is a poignant and emotional tale of love and second chances. The story follows the lives of Alix and Nick, childhood friends who grow up together in the South. The book explores themes of love, tragedy, forgiveness, and misunderstandings, spanning nearly three decades of their relationship. The writing style is described as poetic, beautiful, and atmospheric, with a focus on character development and emotional depth.
Growing up in the Crowley Ridge area of Arkansas, I paid little attention to the sweet gum trees except to admire their brilliant colors during the fall. And maybe to laugh when the Judge cursed each... - #2
Walk Through Fire by Kristen Ashley is a second chance romance that delves into the passionate and tumultuous love story between Millie and High. The book explores their intense connection, the heartbreak of their separation, and their journey towards reconciliation after twenty years. Through flashbacks, readers witness the depth of their love and the challenges they face in the present day as they navigate hurt, anger, and a desire to rebuild what they once had. Kristen Ashley's writing style weaves together past and present, creating a compelling narrative that evokes emotions and captures the complexities of love and relationships.
Therefore, I was standing in line at Chipotle, trying to decide on pinto or black beans for my burrito, telling myself I was going to have salad for dinner (this would not happen but I was telling mys... - #3
"Again the Magic" by Lisa Kleypas is a historical romance novel that follows the story of Lady Aline Marsden and John McKenna, who grow up as childhood friends but are torn apart by societal differences. Aline's father forces her to send McKenna away, leading to misunderstandings and heartbreak. Twelve years later, McKenna returns as a successful businessman seeking revenge, only to realize his feelings for Aline have never truly faded. The book also intertwines the love story of Aline's sister, Livia, and Gideon, adding depth and complexity to the plot. The writing style blends romance, intrigue, and emotional depth, making it a compelling read for fans of historical romance.
A stable boy wasn’t supposed to speak to an earl’s daughter, much less climb up to her bedroom window. God knew what would happen to him if he was caught. He would probably be whipped before being boo...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Wallflowers ) - #4
'Bitter Heat' by Mia Knight is a dark romance novel that follows the tumultuous relationship between Jasmine, a millionaire's daughter, and Roth, her ex-husband seeking revenge. The story is filled with intense emotions, possessiveness, and jealousy, as the characters navigate through their past and present conflicts. Readers are taken on a rollercoaster of emotions, from laughter to tears, as they delve into the complex dynamics between Jasmine and Roth. The writing style is described as gripping, immersive, and full of suspense, keeping readers engaged until the very end.
She turned from her contemplation of the snowy world outside to see Kaia was finally awake. The older woman lay in a hospital bed. The gray hair at her temples was damp with sweat, and her stout figur... - #5
Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren is a heartwarming story of Macy and Elliot, childhood friends turned lovers whose bond is shattered by a mysterious event, leading to years of separation. The book alternates between the past and present timelines, unraveling the deep connection between the characters and the emotional journey they undertake to rediscover their love and friendship. The writing style seamlessly weaves together themes of first love, loss, second chances, and personal growth, creating a captivating narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
Sabrina wipes a smudge of foamy milk from her upper lip. As much as she understands my avoidance of cars, I know there’s a part of her that thinks I should just power through it and get a Prius or Sub... - #6
Ramsay by Mia Sheridan follows the intertwined lives of Brogan Ramsay and Lydia De Havilland. The story begins when they are teenagers, with Brogan seeking revenge on Lydia's family for past wrongs. As they reunite several years later, their feelings for each other resurface, leading to a complex journey of forgiveness, redemption, and second chances. The book is praised for its emotional depth, intricate plot twists, and Sheridan's flawless writing style that immerses readers in a rollercoaster of love, heartache, and self-discovery.
I laughed softly, grabbing her hand and squeezing it before letting it go. "Sorry, was I drifting off again? I've got way too much on my mind. Start over and I swear you’ll have my full attention." I ... - #7
The Price of Scandal by Lucy Score follows the story of Emily Stanton, a self-made billionaire with a billion-dollar skincare business who faces a scandal that threatens her reputation and business. When Derek Price, a crisis management specialist, is hired to help her, their relationship evolves from professional to personal as Derek sees the real Emily beneath the façade she presents to the world. As they navigate through media manipulation, corporate espionage, and personal growth, Emily and Derek's journey from scandal to happy ever after is filled with humor, romance, and strong character development.
Between the mosquitos, the lizards, the worst drivers to ever get behind the wheel of a vehicle, and the oppressive heat, Miami had a natural defense system built in against people who didn’t belong h... - #8
'Ain't She Sweet?' by Susan Elizabeth Phillips follows the story of Sugar Beth Carey, a former mean girl who returns to her small town in Mississippi after fifteen years with three failed marriages behind her. She is broke and desperate to retrieve a valuable painting left to her by an aunt. The novel explores the complex relationships and dynamics between Sugar Beth and the people she left behind, including her former high school teacher Colin Byrne. The plot is filled with interesting and quirky characters, turbulent emotions, and themes of redemption, forgiveness, and change.
The wild child of Parrish, Mississippi, had come back to the town she’d left behind forever. Sugar Beth Carey gazed from the rain-slicked windshield to the horrible dog who lay beside her on the passe... - #9
After the scandal of Faith's mother running off with Gray's father, Faith returns to Prescott, Louisiana, determined to prove herself. Gray, who is now a powerful figure in town, tries to push her away but is unable to resist the attraction between them. As Faith investigates the mystery surrounding Gray's father's disappearance, she and Gray navigate their complicated past and undeniable chemistry, leading to a steamy romance amidst family drama and small-town secrets.
It was a good day for dreaming. It was late in the afternoon, the sun throwing long shadows when it could manage to break through the thick woods, but for the most part the translucent golden light wa... - #10
'Ghosted' by J.M. Darhower is a second chance romance novel that delves deep into the lives of Kennedy and Jonathan. The story follows their tumultuous journey of love, heartbreak, redemption, and forgiveness. Readers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster as they witness the complexities of their relationship unfold through past and present narratives. Darhower's writing style intricately weaves together the characters' struggles, making the storyline angsty, heartbreaking, and poignant. The book is praised for its realistic portrayal of the characters and their raw emotions, drawing readers in from the very beginning.
The beeping of the checkout scanner is monotonous, a dull drone I barely hear anymore, as it melds with Wilson Philips’s Hold On playing on the loudspeaker radio. The same songs, day in and day out. S...