100 books like Mrs. Nash's Ashes

By Sarah Adler,

Here are 100 books that Mrs. Nash's Ashes fans have personally recommended if you like Mrs. Nash's Ashes. Shepherd is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of My Phony Valentine

Jordan Millsaps Author Of The Wedding Date Deal

From my list on romantic comedies with fake relationships.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve always thought books with fake relationship storylines are incredibly interesting and entertaining. There’s so much nuance in creating a believable scenario in which two people agree that pretending to be enamored with each other is the easier/better option than telling the truth, and there is so much awkwardness that goes with pretending to be in love with someone you dislike or barely know. That fascination, along with an appreciation for humor, is what inspired me to write two different fake dating romantic comedies of my own, The Wedding Date Deal and The Gratitude Guarantee. It’s also why I can’t get enough of books like the ones on this list!

Jordan's book list on romantic comedies with fake relationships

Jordan Millsaps Why did Jordan love this book?

This book drew me in immediately with one of the best meet-cute scenes I’ve ever read. I loved how it was obvious pretty quickly that Dallas isn’t the grumpy bad boy that the media makes him out to be and how Poppy draws that softer side out of him with her sunshine personality.

I also loved Dallas’s grandmother and all of Poppy’s family—they are so supportive and also provide some delightful awkwardness since they aren’t aware that the relationship is fake. Also, Poppy owns a restaurant, and I loved the food descriptions!

By Courtney Walsh,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked My Phony Valentine as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.


Book cover of Can't Help Falling

Marie Soleil Author Of Cinder Luna

From my list on rom-com books that feel like fairy tales.

Why am I passionate about this?

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been obsessed with fairy tales and love. I had imaginary friends and would pretend to be the “damsel in distress,” waiting for my prince to find me. I’ve never lost that love as an adult, but I’ve found that certain books can give me the same feelings I had as a child. And reading these stories always fills me with hope that there is good in the world and that love conquers all!

Marie's book list on rom-com books that feel like fairy tales

Marie Soleil Why did Marie love this book?

I loved the meet-cute for this book—technically, the second meet-cute of the two main characters. Who doesn’t want to be saved from a burning building by a hunky firefighter, especially the one you loved as a teenager?

I adored the main character, Emmy, and her belief in love and romance. The setting was especially cozy, and the book made me laugh, too!

By Courtney Walsh,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Can't Help Falling as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Sometime all it takes to start a fire is a single match. . .

Owen Larrabee is not my soulmate.

He wasn't when I confessed my love to him on his wedding day, and he isn't now. I should probably say that I wasn't the bride when that happened. I don't have the best timing.

He’s got a temper, he's moody, and he has a history of being misunderstood and making big mistakes.

I, on the other hand, make pumpkin cupcakes, spend my Friday nights curled up with a beloved romance novel and long to be kissed in the rain.…


Book cover of A Man Worth Shaving For

Laura Wolf Author Of The Billionaire's Regret

From my list on sweet romances to make you swoon.

Why am I passionate about this?

Known for my sweet billionaire romance novels, I am a purveyor of book boyfriends and happy endings. I absolutely love romance stories as you know exactly what you’re in for when you pick them up. You know there will be a Happily Ever After no matter how dire things get at any given point in the story so you can really just sit back and enjoy the ride. As an author I always write epilogues and I’ve built up a growing universe where characters pop in and out of each other’s books. It’s my happy place and as an author I love sharing that world with others.

Laura's book list on sweet romances to make you swoon

Laura Wolf Why did Laura love this book?

The first installment of Michelle Pennington’s Shaped By Love series, A Man Worth Shaving For is a fantastic romantic comedy centering around Tessa and Logan. Tessa is the head of HR in a body-positive lingerie company, while Logan has been called in to analyse the business and give his opinion on where cuts should be made. They are not aware of their upcoming connection, however, until after Tessa is set up on a blind date with him through mutual friends… a date which did not go particularly well. 

Michelle Pennington has written a lot of romances, but with romcom she blows everything else out of the water. I had pre-order alerts set up on my phone for when the next release in the series came out because I loved them that much.

By Michelle Pennington,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked A Man Worth Shaving For as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Our goodnight kiss should have been goodbye.

We meant it to be.

But Monday morning there was Logan Jennings, in my office, deciding the fate of the company I love...and my job.

I never should have said the things I said or let myself feel the things I felt because connections like this don't just go away. Even when you desperately need them to.

In two weeks, he'll be gone, and nothing will ever be the same.

A clean and hilarious romcom with lots of heart and sizzle. You've been looking for a book like this! Grab your copy now!



Book cover of A Merry Little Meet Cute

Katta Kis Author Of Love in the Liner Notes

From my list on for pop star lovers.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve had a love-hate relationship with pop music since I was a kid singing Britney Spear’s “Lucky” with my friends. Eventually, I evolved into a punk-ass cynical teenager who disavowed my love of pop, but the fascination remained. In college, I started a pop star romance that would–many, many years later–become my debut book Love in the Liner Notes. In the process, I read an obsessively large number of books touching on music, celebrities, musicians, and the entertainment industry. I hope you enjoy a selection of my favorites, mostly romances (what can I say, I have a type) that brought me the kind of joy only a pop star can. 

Katta's book list on for pop star lovers

Katta Kis Why did Katta love this book?

Getting back to the fluffy–and the steamy–I’m not a huge holiday romance reader but this was delicious!

A plus-sized adult film star accidentally getting cast in a squeaky clean Christmas movie and her co-star is an ex-boy band bad boy trying to rehab his image? *chef’s kiss* Add in the fact that they're fans of each other’s work? Perfection.

I felt that the characters being huge fans of each other helped offset the sometimes parasocial power dynamic of a fan dating/banging a star they’ve idolized for years. That plus them both needing to keep Bee’s porn career a secret put them on even ground, which allowed me to really enjoy their delightful banter, chemistry, and hot sex scenes.

By Julie Murphy, Sierra Simone,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked A Merry Little Meet Cute as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Cowritten by #1 New York Times bestselling author Julie Murphy and USA Today bestselling author Sierra Simone-a steamy plus-size holiday rom-com about an adult film star who is semi-accidentally cast as a lead in a family-friendly Christmas movie, and the former bad-boy pop star she falls in love with.

Bee Hobbes (aka Bianca Von Honey) has a successful career as a plus-size adult film star. With a huge following and two supportive moms, Bee couldn't ask for more. But when Bee's favorite producer casts her to star in a Christmas movie he's making for the squeaky-clean Hope Channel, Bee's career…


Book cover of Emergency Contact

Brandy Woods Snow Author Of As Much As I Ever Could

From my list on YA romances set in the American Deep South.

Why am I passionate about this?

There’s never been a time I haven’t had a pen in my hand, crafting a good story. And as the YA literature movement grew, so did my love of it. There’s not a more “blooming” time of life when life and love and friendship can grow with such authenticity and excitement. And true to my Deep South roots, I write and gravitate to romance novels that capture the beauty of first love and Southern culture in tandem, from the slow, relaxed pace to the sometimes gritty culture to the never-meet-a-stranger, colorful personas. Where humidity is thick but the accents are thicker, that’s where you’ll find my Southern-fried heart!

Brandy's book list on YA romances set in the American Deep South

Brandy Woods Snow Why did Brandy love this book?

Talk about an all-out emotional whirlwind in this Texas-based book that explores that all-too-often overlooked time of incredible growth during the college years for main characters Penny and Sam. Woven together through a textual relationship, love grows in a charmingly authentic, open, and honest way. Well-developed secondary characters, a deep exploration of a range of emotions, and some yummy baked goods make this book unputdownable! 

By Mary H. K. Choi,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Emergency Contact as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 14, 15, 16, and 17.

What is this book about?

"Smart and funny, with characters so real and vulnerable, you want to send them care packages. I loved this book." -Rainbow Rowell

From debut author Mary H.K. Choi comes a compulsively readable novel that shows young love in all its awkward glory-perfect for fans of Eleanor & Park and To All the Boys I've Loved Before.

For Penny Lee, high school was a total nonevent. Her friends were okay, her grades were fine, and while she'd somehow landed a boyfriend, they never managed to know much about each other. Now Penny is heading to college in Austin, Texas, to learn…


Book cover of If You'll Have Me

Deanna Grey Author Of Outdrawn

From my list on sapphic romance with characters finding their place.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve always loved writing that explores mental health and its effect on finding love. I love characters who are their worst enemies and conflicts stemming from internal battles. Depression and anxiety have been something I’ve struggled with since childhood. My mental health issues made looking to the future with hope feel impossible sometimes. When I picked up a romance book where an anxious character found a happily ever after, it gave me hope. Seeing characters who don’t have everything figured out and aren’t always confident in themselves find their happy endings is a light at the end of a tunnel—peace in the middle of a storm. 

Deanna's book list on sapphic romance with characters finding their place

Deanna Grey Why did Deanna love this book?

I love new adult stories and endearing art. This book reminded me of a beautiful and terrifying time in my life when I wasn’t yet a “real” adult, but not a child, either.

The main characters are riddled with anxieties I know all too well. They get in their own way when it comes to finding love. Seeing them stumble, eventually learn from their mistakes, and grow together was cathartic. 

By Eunnie,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked If You'll Have Me as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 14, 15, 16, and 17.

What is this book about?

'Super sweet and totally heartwarming!' - Alice Oseman, bestselling author of Heartstopper

Momo Gardner is the kind of friend who's always ready to lend a helping hand. She's introverted, sensitive, and maybe a little too trusting, but she likes to believe the best in people.

PG, on the other hand, is a bit of a lone wolf, despite her reputation for being a flirt and a player. Underneath all that cool mystery, she's actually quick to smile, and when she falls for someone, she falls hard.

An unexpected meet-cute brings the two together, kicking off the beginning of an awkward…


Book cover of How to Honeymoon Alone

Susan Cliff Author Of Stranded With The Navy Seal

From my list on romance novels for island lovers.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve always loved romance. I discovered the world of Harlequin one summer and never looked back. Now that I’m older, I appreciate female triumph and female-centered stories even more. I’ve read thousands of romances in my lifetime, so I know my stuff. As a San Diego area resident, I’m also an expert at “beach,” like Ken. When island vibes meet romance, it’s magic. The third element I can’t resist, exemplified by On the Island, is survival. I wrote my book with these passions in mind, and I make these recommendations with my whole heart. Happy reading! 

Susan's book list on romance novels for island lovers

Susan Cliff Why did Susan love this book?

Have you heard about the “grumpy/sunshine” trend? My next book has this popular trope and more—a jilted heroine, a jaded hero, cute banter, and sunny beach vibes.

Eden and Philip are strangers on solo vacations, both nursing broken hearts, when they meet-cute at a tiki bar. Eden’s warm personality melts Philip’s cool reserve, and they tumble into a steamy island affair. I like the way gruff workaholic Philip rolls up his sleeves to give Eden the holiday she deserves. Love is always the best revenge. 

By Olivia Hayle,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked How to Honeymoon Alone as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A paradise island. Two strangers. The attraction they never saw coming...


When Eden dumped her cheating ex before the wedding, the last thing she expected was to go on their tropical honeymoon alone. But with no refunds possible, she packs her budget guidebook and broken heart, and sets off.


She plans to relax on the beach, swim in the ocean, and drink cocktails until she feels like herself again... or falls over. Whichever comes first. What she's not expecting is the brusque, handsome stranger who sits down at her table on the first night.


Philip Meyer is a grumpy workaholic,…


Book cover of We'd Know by Then

Katrina Kwan Author Of Knives, Seasoning, & A Dash of Love

From my list on romance that will make you believe in true love.

Why am I passionate about this?

Prior to writing my own works of fiction, I actually worked for several years as a romance ghostwriter. I’ve worked for many clients under various pseudonyms, and many of these titles have gone on to the Amazon Top 100 list (I just can’t tell you which one because I signed an NDA). I think that romance as a genre can be a wonderfully cathartic and escapist experience, allowing us the opportunity to swoon, pine, and giddily indulge in the joy of what it’s like to fall in love over and over again. 

Katrina's book list on romance that will make you believe in true love

Katrina Kwan Why did Katrina love this book?

This one will break your heart. It’s more of a romantic tragedy, but I think there’s something wonderful in near-miss romances because it helps you appreciate what you have, when you have it.

In a monochrome world, you can only see color once you’ve met your soulmate. The problem is that the main character, Brighton Evans, has been able to see color since forever—so who on earth is her soulmate and how will she ever be able to tell? We’d Know by Then is without a doubt a tearjerker, so prepare yourselves!

By Kirsten Bohling,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked We'd Know by Then as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Fans of bittersweet titles by Colleen Hoover and Jojo Moyes will have you invested in Brighton and Cain's journey from the first page to the last.

In a monochrome world, Brighton Evans is a splash of brilliant color.

She can see the world in its true, kaleidoscopic form-a privilege reserved for soulmates only after they've found their other halves.

Knowing your soulmate when they come along should be easy, but Brighton can't remember a time when she hasn't seen in color. The past has her convinced that life is safer this way; she doesn't need a soulmate.

When Brighton meets…


Book cover of That Time I Got Drunk And Saved A Demon

Caitriona Drexler Author Of The White Enchantress

From my list on swoon-worthy that take you to a different world.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve been making up characters and telling myself stories for as long as I can remember. I’m also a mood reader. I’ll read just about anything, but the stories I always yearn for are the ones that take me far away from this world, make me swoon, and devastate my soul. As a mood reader, I also have phases, and I’m in a fantasy phase right now. Magic, romance, adventure. These are just a few of my favorite things to read and write. As I read, I am inspired by the emotions that flood my senses when I read a good book. 

Caitriona's book list on swoon-worthy that take you to a different world

Caitriona Drexler Why did Caitriona love this book?

I loved how different this fantasy rom-com was from anything I had read before picking it up. From the meet-cute to the epilogue, I adored all of it. I was shocked at first by the contemporary language and the modern world-building within a traditional fantasy setting.

The MFC was relatable, reacting to the crazy world around her as I’d imagine I would if I were taken on a wild adventure with a dragon shape-shifter. Funny, witty, steamy, and exciting. This book had it all.

Book cover of The One with the Kiss Cam

Marie Soleil Author Of Cinder Luna

From my list on rom-com books that feel like fairy tales.

Why am I passionate about this?

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been obsessed with fairy tales and love. I had imaginary friends and would pretend to be the “damsel in distress,” waiting for my prince to find me. I’ve never lost that love as an adult, but I’ve found that certain books can give me the same feelings I had as a child. And reading these stories always fills me with hope that there is good in the world and that love conquers all!

Marie's book list on rom-com books that feel like fairy tales

Marie Soleil Why did Marie love this book?

I did not want this book to end; it’s that good! The beginning had me rolling and laughing, with the meet-cute at the basketball game and the “kiss cam” moment. But the rest of the book gave major Cinderella vibes, and that’s my favorite fairy tale of all time.

I loved how Duke cared for Nora and did everything he could to take care of her, and I loved how they overcame their past hurts together. This was a really beautiful story that truly felt like a fairy tale!

By Cindy Steel,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked The One with the Kiss Cam as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

It was just one date.

My friend told me I needed more fun in my life, so I reluctantly said yes. Fun wasn’t exactly in my wheelhouse. After watching my own mother’s love life implode time and time again it’s only natural that I have a few rules to protect myself.

Actually, it’s just one rule…

Avoid relationships with men so I don’t get attached.

I wasn’t worried. Getting attached has never been a problem for me. This guy was just a warm body in a chair. I was here for the basketball game. I was absolutely NOT here for…


Book cover of My Phony Valentine
Book cover of Can't Help Falling
Book cover of A Man Worth Shaving For

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