Books Like...
Desperate for a major life change, former retirement home director and current Hollywood studio production assistant, Gracie Snow, is tasked with dragging forcibly retired Chicago Stars wide receiver Bobby Tom Denton to Texas for a movie role. Bobby Tom proves to be stubborn and difficult, causing delays that lead to Gracie losing her job. Despite his flaws, Gracie admires Bobby Tom's mother Suzy's storyline and finds herself entangled in a complex relationship with him, navigating humor, drama, and a secondary romance along the way.
If you liked Heaven, Texas, here are the top 100 books to read next:
(We also have 100 recommendations for the series: Chicago Stars)
- #1
Save:'The Do-Over' by M.K. Schiller seems to be a contemporary romance novel featuring a fake relationship trope. The story revolves around a heroine who transforms from an initially plain and unattractive character to a more chic and stylish persona with the help of the hero. The relationship between the main characters starts off as fake and cheesy but develops into a genuine and growing attraction over time. The writing style appears to include elements of humor and transformation, as well as a slow burn romance that evolves throughout the plot.
Kyle Manchester sat at Duggan’s Pub sipping the last of his top-shelf whiskey and wondering where in the hell Brad Jansen was. He was fifteen minutes late. Boy Scout Brad had probably stopped to help ... - #2
Save:Call Me Irresistible is a contemporary romance novel by Susan Elizabeth Phillips set in the small town of Wynette, Texas. The story revolves around Meg Koranda and Ted Beaudine, who come from famous and successful families. When Meg voices her objections to Ted marrying her best friend, Lucy, the situation spirals out of control, leading to Lucy fleeing from her own wedding. Meg finds herself ostracized by the town and Ted, and the book follows her journey as she stands up against the judgmental townspeople and gains their respect and admiration. The novel showcases SEP's signature writing style, filled with humor, engaging dialogues, and fast-paced storytelling.
More than a few residents of Wynette, Texas, thought Ted Beaudine was marrying beneath himself. It wasn’t as if the bride’s mother wasstillthe president of the United States. Cornelia Jorik had been o... - #3
Save:Daisy Devreaux, a young woman facing jail time due to her financial mistakes, finds herself in an arranged marriage with a mysterious man named Alex Markoff. Despite their initial clashes, Daisy and Alex navigate their unconventional relationship while working for a circus. The story unfolds with themes of redemption, growth, and the complexities of love, set against a backdrop of circus life and characterized by emotional depth and humor.
She caught her bottom lip between her teeth. Her father had introduced them several days ago, that terrible morning the three of them had gone to get the marriage license, and she’d heard the name the... - #4
Save:"All Night Long with a Cowboy" by Caitlin Crews is a romance novel set in the Kittredge Ranch series. The story follows the unlikely romance between Harriet, a quirky high school librarian, and Jensen, a carefree playboy cowboy. Despite their differences, the two characters are drawn to each other, leading to a journey of self-discovery, growth, and emotional depth. The writing style of the book is engaging, with a mix of humor, heartwarming moments, and poignant revelations about the characters' pasts.
The blonde was named Candace, the redhead was calling herself Tammy, and the two brunettes were too busy taking pictures of themselves to offer any biographical information. But the night was young an... - #5
Save:A Husband's Regret by Natasha Anders is a story of redemption and second chances in a marriage that has been torn apart by misunderstandings and hurtful actions. The plot revolves around Bronwyn and Bryce's tumultuous relationship, filled with emotional turmoil and deep-seated pain. The writing style captures the heart-wrenching journey of two flawed characters as they navigate through trust issues, miscommunication, and the complexities of love and forgiveness.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Unwanted ) - #6
Save:'Fancy Pants' by Susan Elizabeth Phillips is a sprawling novel covering the years from the 1930s to the 1980s, focusing on the transformation of the main character, Francesca. Francesca, a down-on-her-luck British socialite, meets Dallie, a hardworking Texan, and they form an unlikely connection as complete opposites. Throughout the story, the characters reinvent themselves multiple times, navigating drama, humor, and unexpected twists in their lives. delves into themes of personal growth, relationships, and the journey towards becoming better individuals.
When Francesca was first placed in her mother's arms, Chloe Serritella Day burst into tears and insisted that the sisters at the private London hospital where she had given birth had lost her baby. An... - #7
Save:In 'The Charm School' by Susan Wiggs, Isadora, an 'ugly duckling' from Boston, signs on as a translator on a voyage to Rio with skipper Ryan. Despite initial doubts about her capabilities, Isadora charms the crew and forms a strong bond with them and Ryan. The story follows Isadora's journey of self-discovery and transformation, shedding her insecurities and finding her true identity. Set in the 1850s, the book explores themes of love, friendship, and societal restrictions, with a backdrop of sea adventures and exotic locales.
Being invisible did have its advantages. Isadora Dudley Peabody knew no one would notice her, not even if the gleaming ballroom floor decided to open up and swallow her. It wouldn’t happen, of course.... - #8
Save:In the book "Open Season" by Linda Howard, Daisy Minor, a small town librarian, decides to break free from her predictable and boring life by undergoing a makeover. This transformation leads her into the middle of a dangerous situation involving a prostitution ring, murder, illegal immigrants, and graft. Throughout the story, Daisy's newfound confidence and charm attract the attention of the police chief, Jack Russo, as they navigate through a mix of romance, humor, and suspense in a small town in Alabama.
Carmela nervously clutched the burlap bag that held her other dress, some water, and the small package of food she had been able to save for the trip north, across the border. Orlando had told her tha... - #9
Save:Lady Be Good by Susan Elizabeth Phillips is a contemporary romance novel set in the small town of Wynette, Texas. The story follows Lady Emma Wells Finch, a headmistress from England, who travels to Texas to create a scandal in order to avoid an unwanted marriage. She meets Kenny Traveler, a suspended pro golfer, and the two strike sparks off each other immediately. As Emma tries to shake off her prim and proper reputation, she and Kenny navigate a relationship full of humor, misunderstandings, and unexpected twists. The plot is filled with humorous antics, quirky characters, and a secondary romance that adds depth to the story. The writing style is described as funny, tender, sweet, and sexy, with sparkling dialogue and well-written sex scenes.
Lady Be Good is a light and funny romantic read that features strong, well-developed characters, humorous banter, and a sweet love story. The book combines elements of contemporary romance with regency elements, creating a unique and entertaining story. The interactions between the lead characters, Emma and Kenny, are described as engaging and entertaining, with their conflicting personalities leading to amusing situations and character growth. The secondary romance and family dynamics add depth to the plot, making it a compelling and enjoyable read for fans of the genre.
Kenny Traveler was lazy. That explained why he’d fallen asleep in TWA’s Ambassador Club at Dallas–Fort Worth Airport instead of promptly meeting British Airways Flight 2193 at the gate. Pure laziness,...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Wynette, Texas ) - #10
Save:'See Jane Score' by Rachel Gibson follows the story of Jane Alcott, a reporter who is assigned to cover the Seattle Chinooks Hockey Team despite knowing nothing about hockey. The book explores Jane's struggles to be accepted by the team, especially by star goalie Luc Martineau, who initially dislikes reporters. As Jane and Luc spend more time together, their relationship evolves from banter to something more, leading to unexpected feelings and challenges. The plot is filled with humor, romance, and character development, making it an engaging and entertaining read for fans of contemporary romance.
The writing style of 'See Jane Score' is described as humorous, engaging, and steamy. The author, Rachel Gibson, creates relatable and flawed characters like Jane and Luc, who have realistic struggles and growth throughout the story. The book delves into themes of acceptance, self-discovery, and unexpected love, while also incorporating elements of sports, humor, and romance to keep readers entertained and invested in the characters' journey.
The locker room was thick with trash talk as Luc “Lucky” Martineau tucked himself into his cup and strapped on his gear. Most of his teammates stood around Daniel Holstrom, the rookie Swede, giving Da...
