10 Books to Read If You Loved Better Than the Movies
If you’re obsessed with Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter (same, btw), you know it’s the ultimate rom-com dream—complete with adorable banter, quirky characters, and swoon-worthy moments. Whether you’re here for the fake-dating hijinks, enemies-to-lovers tension, or those scenes that make you giggle-snort in public (oops), I’ve got your back. Here are 10 books to keep the vibes alive and your rom-com heart happy. Let’s dive in! 🥰📚
1. The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han
Three words: Love. Triangle. Drama. 😍 If you’re into those "I can’t decide between two ridiculously cute guys" vibes, this series will have you screaming into your pillow. Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah serve up ALL the angst with a side of sandy beaches and warm, sun-kissed romance. Warning: you might develop a serious craving for popsicles and summer vacations. 🌞🍦
2. To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny Han
Another Jenny Han masterpiece—because she just gets us, you know? Lara Jean’s fake-dating adventure with Peter Kavinsky is a whole vibe. Think secret love letters, high school drama, and scenes so cute you’ll want to frame them. If you’re into charming chaos and a slow-burn romance that makes you melt, this one’s for you. Also, Peter K. might ruin other book boyfriends for you. 🥺💕
3. Tweet Cute by Emma Lord
Imagine your crush is also your anonymous Twitter nemesis. 🤯 Enter Pepper and Jack, whose online feud involves grilled cheese memes, family rivalries, and enough sass to keep you grinning from cover to cover. Spoiler alert: they’re both cinnamon rolls disguised as snarky enemies. If you’re into witty banter and "oops, I’m falling for you" moments, you’ll devour this one. 🧀💬
4. Today Tonight Tomorrow by Rachel Lynn Solomon
Let’s talk about Rowan and Neil. Academic rivals turned… something more? 🧐 This book takes place over 24 hours (yes, you read that right) during a chaotic scavenger hunt across Seattle. It’s hilarious, heartfelt, and full of that "how did we go from enemies to kissing?" magic. Plus, Neil is the kind of dork you secretly love. Nerds FTW. 🤓❤️
5. Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins
Bonjour, romance! 🗼💕 Set in the most romantic city in the world (Paris, duh), Anna and Étienne’s story is all about awkward first crushes, intense emotions, and realizing your BFF might just be The One. If you’ve ever daydreamed about a whirlwind love story in a foreign city, this book is basically your passport. Just be prepared to fall head over heels for Étienne—it’s inevitable. 🥖❤️
6. The Upside of Falling by Alex Light
Fake dating alert! 🚨 Becca and Brett’s relationship starts as a cover story but quickly spirals into something real. (Oops!) It’s a sweet, fluffy read that’ll leave you grinning like an idiot. If you love stories with a dash of vulnerability, charming high school moments, and just the right amount of drama, this one’s a winner. Bonus: Brett is an actual sweetheart. 🥺✨
7. Love & Gelato by Jenna Evans Welch
Italy + romance + gelato? Yes, please! 🍨🇮🇹 Lina’s adventure in Tuscany involves uncovering family secrets, exploring dreamy landscapes, and (of course) meeting a cute Italian boy. This book is like a mini-vacation with a side of feels. Just don’t read it on an empty stomach—the food descriptions will have you drooling. 🥖🍕
8. You’ve Reached Sam by Dustin Thao
Okay, so this one’s a bit heavier, but hear me out. It’s about love, loss, and those impossible goodbyes. 😭 When Julie calls her late boyfriend Sam and he actually answers, things get real emotional. It’s bittersweet, beautiful, and will leave you hugging your pillow. Pro tip: have tissues nearby. 💔☎️
9. When Dimple Met Rishi by Sandhya Menon
Dimple just wants to code. Rishi just wants to marry her. (No big deal.) 😂 This adorable rom-com follows two teens navigating an arranged marriage setup, a tech summer program, and their own dreams. It’s funny, heartwarming, and packed with culture and chemistry. Plus, Dimple throwing iced coffee in Rishi’s face is iconic. ☕💥
10. Book Lovers by Emily Henry
Okay, this one’s technically for older readers, but hear me out. If you’re a book nerd (hi, welcome to the club), this romance between a literary agent and an editor will hit you right in the feels. It’s got snappy dialogue, small-town charm, and so many bookish references, you’ll feel personally attacked (in a good way). Think of it as a grown-up rom-com with all the cozy vibes. 📖💕
There you have it—10 books to fill the Better Than the Movies-shaped hole in your heart. Whether you’re here for fake dating, snarky banter, or full-on swoon sessions, these stories have you covered. So grab your favorite blanket, a snack (because let’s be real, snacks are non-negotiable), and dive in. Happy reading!
