6 Books to Read If You Love Emily Henry — Better Than Big Beautiful Life?

Emily Henry has become a go-to author for readers who love smart banter, emotionally resonant stories, and satisfying romance arcs. But if you’ve already read her backlist — or, like us, were left a little underwhelmed by her newest release Big Beautiful Life — you might be wondering what to pick up next.

In a recent What to Read Next podcast episode, I chatted with Amy from @novelgossip about six incredible romance books that deliver the emotional payoff and immersive storytelling we typically expect from an Emily Henry book — plus a bonus author we think you’ll want to binge immediately.

Let’s dive in.

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Why Big Beautiful Life Didn’t Quite Work for Us

While we had high hopes for Big Beautiful Life, it just didn’t land. The dual timeline and historical fiction subplot felt flat, and the chemistry between characters was lacking. The book tried to channel the magic of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, but instead felt like a lukewarm knockoff of January and Gus from Beach Read.

We still love Emily Henry’s work overall — but this one? Not our favorite.

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6 Books to Read If You’re Craving That Emily Henry Feel

Passion Project by London Sperry

If you love emotional depth and New York City as a character, this debut is for you. It follows Bennett, a grieving woman searching for purpose, and Henry, the cinnamon-roll love interest who helps her rediscover joy one Saturday at a time. Friends-to-lovers slow burn with all the feels.

Summer in the City by Alex Aster

Think early 2000s rom-com with a modern twist. A billionaire with a heart of gold. A screenwriter with writer’s block. Neighbors-turned-enemies-turned-lovers. Plus, an NYC bucket list that’s full of charm and authenticity. Bonus: the hardcover has stunning sprayed edges.

Any Trope But You by Victoria Lavine

When a romance author gets canceled after a viral leak of her “Happily Never After” endings, she escapes to Alaska to rediscover her voice. This book is packed with clever trope reversals, cozy snowy vibes, and a delicious “only one sleeping bag” scene. A must-read for rom-com fans.

Promise Me Sunshine by Cara Bastone

Cara Bastone is the queen of emotional slow burns, and this Brooklyn-set romance is no exception. When Lenny’s best friend dies, she spirals — until Miles, the kindest man alive, slowly helps her back to herself. Real, heartfelt, and deeply moving.

Nora Goes Off Script by Annabel Monaghan

What if a movie star decided to squat in your guest house… and you didn’t want him to leave? This quirky, warm rom-com is about second chances, parenting, and unexpected love. It’s funny, poignant, and perfect for fans of Book Lovers.

Summer Romance by Annabel Monaghan

A single mom. Her ex-husband’s best friend. A dog park meet-cute. Annabel Monaghan delivers yet again with this sweet and swoony romance about rebuilding after heartbreak and finding love in the most unexpected places.

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Bonus: Still Want to Read Emily Henry?

While Big Beautiful Life didn’t work for us, Emily Henry’s backlist still holds up. If you’re new to her, start with:

• Beach Read
• Book Lovers
• People We Meet on Vacation
• Happy Place
  

You’ll get clever banter, complex characters, and satisfying emotional arcs — all hallmarks of great contemporary romance.

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Want More Rec Lists Like This?

Be sure to listen to the full episode of the podcast where Amy and I spill all the tea and share behind-the-scenes book world drama.

Listen on your favorite podcast app or watch the episode on YouTube.

Plus, check out the Spice & Swoon Book Club — our pick this month is Any Trope But You.

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What to Read Next…

Looking for more heartfelt reads or books with emotional payoffs and laugh-out-loud moments? Head over to whattoreadnextblog.com and sign up for our Substack to get weekly book recs delivered straight to your inbox.

Have a favorite Emily Henry read-alike? Drop it in the comments.