Books Like...
'The Holiday Ex-Files' by Jennifer Peel is a heartwarming romance novel that follows the story of Cami Jenkins, a woman who runs a business cropping ex-lovers and ex-spouses from photos. The book explores Cami's journey of healing and self-discovery as she navigates through past heartbreaks and finds unexpected love with Noah, a kind and thoughtful home contractor. Through witty banter, family dinners, and the support of her loved ones, Cami learns to let go of her past and embrace the holiday spirit once again. The writing style is engaging, with a mix of humor, emotional depth, and a touch of romance that keeps readers hooked until the very end.
If you liked The Holiday Ex-Files, here are the top 8 books to read next:
- #1
'Juniper Hill' in the series 'The Edens' by author Devney Perry revolves around Knox Eden, the excellent chef and owner of Knuckles restaurant in the Eloise Hotel. When single mother Memphis arrives with her baby Drake and lodges temporarily in Knox's garage apartment, his life of peaceful solitude comes crashing down. Despite their initial differences, Knox and Memphis form a strong bond as they navigate the challenges of their relationship, family dynamics, and personal growth. The story is filled with elements of romance, suspense, and heartwarming moments, set in the small town of Quincy, Montana, where the Edens welcome Memphis and her son into their fold.
The writing style in 'Juniper Hill' has been praised for its emotional depth, well-developed characters, and engaging storytelling. Readers appreciate the themes of family, friendship, love, and personal growth woven into the narrative, along with unexpected twists that keep the plot intriguing. Devney Perry's ability to create complex characters like Knox and Memphis, who undergo significant development throughout the book, adds depth to the romance and drama unfolding in the story.
- #2
'Yes & I Love You' by Roni Loren is a contemporary romance novel that follows the story of Hollyn Tate, a woman with Tourette's syndrome and severe social anxiety. She crosses paths with Jasper, an aspiring actor working as a barista and improv teacher. The book explores their unique connection, as Jasper helps Hollyn overcome her fears through improv lessons, pushing them both out of their comfort zones. Despite the challenges they face individually, their budding relationship is filled with humor, steamy moments, and personal growth.
The writing style of 'Yes & I Love You' by Roni Loren is praised for its light-hearted and humorous approach, tackling serious topics such as Tourette's syndrome and social anxiety with sensitivity and authenticity. The dual perspective narrative allows readers to delve into the minds of the main characters, Hollyn and Jasper, as they navigate their personal struggles and budding romance in a realistic and relatable manner.
Sometimes Hollyn Tate pretended she was in a movie. She had the script. She knew her lines. Her curly blond hair was blown out to perfection and not frizzing like crazy in the New Orleans humidity. He... - #3
'Fix Her Up' by Tessa Bailey is a steamy romantic comedy that follows the story of Georgie Castle, a professional clown who is tired of not being taken seriously by her family and her town. When Travis Ford, a washed-up baseball player, returns home after an injury ends his career, Georgie decides to help him get back on track. The two enter into a fake dating agreement to change Travis's public image and convince Georgie's family that she is more than just the baby of the family. As their fake relationship turns into real feelings, they navigate through witty dialogue, steamy scenes, and a whirlwind romance that challenges their perceptions of themselves and each other.
Georgette Castle tucked the stolen key into her pocket, wincing at the creak as she opened the apartment door. Empty beer cans skittered along the floor the farther she pushed, the stale stench of unw... - #4
'Marriage for One' by Ella Maise is a slow burn romance novel that follows the story of Jack and Rose, who enter into a marriage of convenience. As they navigate through rough patches together, they gradually develop a deep connection and strive to make their marriage genuine. The book explores the growth of their relationship, uncovering hidden motives, and building a believable romance between the characters.
The plot of 'Marriage for One' is engaging and well-developed, revealing layers of mystery and complexity as the story progresses. The writing style captures the dynamics between Jack and Rose, portraying their journey from a business deal to a real relationship with authenticity and depth.
Wide-eyed and a little shaky, I stared straight ahead as the officiant said the words I was dreading. Was I really doing this? When the silence in the mostly empty and sort of depressing room stretche... - #5
'One Percent of You' by Michelle Gross is a heartwarming single parent romance that follows the story of Hadley, a young single mom who is fiercely independent and determined to provide the best life for her daughter Lucy. When Hadley meets her grumpy neighbor, Elijah, who initially dislikes kids, their relationship starts off on the wrong foot. However, as they slowly develop a friendship and bond over their shared experiences, Elijah finds himself drawn to Hadley and her daughter, ultimately leading to a slow burn romance filled with emotional depth and realistic portrayals of parenting and relationships.
The book beautifully explores themes of love, family, second chances, and personal growth. Through dual POVs, readers get to know Elijah and Hadley as they navigate the challenges of past relationships, self-discovery, and learning to trust again. The author weaves a touching tale of healing and finding love in unexpected places, with a mix of humor, emotion, and steamy romance that keeps readers engaged from the first page to the last.
I believed that we chose our level of maturity. Some lucky bastards were fortunate and could do whatever they wanted. They got the family and, God forbid, children. Then there was the rest of us. We m... - #6
In 'The Love Hypothesis' by Ali Hazelwood, readers are introduced to Olive Smith, a PhD student in biology, who navigates the challenges of being a woman in STEM while trying to prove a scientific theory about attraction and relationships. The story follows Olive's journey as she grapples with her insecurities, self-discovery, and professional ambitions, all while engaging in a strained professional partnership turned romance with the charming Dr. Adam Carlsen. The book expertly blends elements of romance, humor, and academia, offering a heartwarming and sweet narrative that explores the complexities of relationships and personal growth.
The novel shines in its portrayal of relatable and multifaceted characters, particularly Olive and Adam, whose chemistry and interactions leap off the pages. Ali Hazelwood's writing style is engaging, filled with witty banter and authentic dialogues that create a delightful rapport between the characters. The story unfolds through Olive's unique perspective, allowing readers to witness her moments of vulnerability, self-doubt, and eventual growth, all while experiencing a perfect blend of humor, heart, and a touch of academia.
It did take him a moment to adjust—perfectly understandable, given the sudden circumstances. It was an awkward, uncomfortable, somewhat painful minute, in which Olive was simultaneously smashing her l... - #7
'The Spanish Love Deception' by Elena Armas is a slow burn enemies-to-lovers romance novel that follows the story of Catalina and Aaron. Catalina, in need of a fake boyfriend for her sister's wedding, reluctantly accepts Aaron's offer. As they navigate through the deception, family drama, and personal struggles, their chemistry and tension grow, leading to a lush and emotionally detailed love story between two stubborn individuals. The book is told solely from Catalina's perspective, with a writing style that expertly conveys the emotions and challenges faced by the characters.
Rosie—my best friend and colleague in InTech, the New York City–based engineering consulting company, where we had met and worked—slowly nodded her head. I watched her dark curls bounce with the motio... - #8
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...