100 books like Then There Was You

By Kara Isaac,

Here are 100 books that Then There Was You fans have personally recommended if you like Then There Was You. 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 Stubborn Heart

Angela Ruth Strong Author Of Husband Auditions

From my list on funny and faith-based romances.

Why am I passionate about this?

When I used to pick up my youngest from elementary school, instead of asking about her day, I’d say, “Tell me your stories.” Her stories always ended with, “And in my head I said…” After laughing at all her unspoken responses, I finally started to tease, “You’re really funny in your head.” That’s me too. She and I see the world as a cartoon for entertainment. I don’t have the comedic timing to say my funny thoughts aloud, but they transfer well to paper where I can share them with readers. And I still look for stories from people who are funny in their head.

Angela's book list on funny and faith-based romances

Angela Ruth Strong Why did Angela love this book?

My sister recommended this book to me, and I’ve recommended it multiple times since. More than once, I’ve read the prologue out loud to another person and couldn’t keep from crying. Just from the prologue, people. I’m tellin’ ya. Anyway, Kate accompanies her grandmother to renovate her childhood home with the assistance of a bunch of geriatric busybodies and one hunky hockey player. Matt quit playing hockey to take care of his wife when she was diagnosed with cancer, then when she died, he gave up on everything he loved. Kate is a social worker who wants to help him find healing, but she never expects it to break her heart in the process. 

By Becky Wade,

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

Kate Donovan is burned out on work, worn down by her dating relationships, and in need of an adventure. When her grandmother asks Kate to accompany her to Redbud, Pennsylvania, to restore the grand old house she grew up in, Kate jumps at the chance.

Upon her arrival, Kate meets Matt Jarreau, the man hired to renovate the house. Kate can't help being drawn by both his good looks and something else she can't quite put her finger on. He's clearly wounded, yet Kate sets her stubborn heart on bringing him out of the dark and back into the light…


Book cover of Before I Called You Mine

Sarah Hanks Author Of Mercy Will Follow Me

From my list on to give you all the feels.

Why am I passionate about this?

The biggest compliment a reader can give me is to tell me my book made them cry. Yes, I love a great tear-jerker. I love writing them, and I love reading them. When we feel more deeply, we can live more fully. Books that evoke emotion can help us tune into our authentic selves and confront falsehoods that have held us back from full victory in our lives. Plus, reading is cheaper than therapy! I seek to bring hope, healing, and freedom through fiction. You have to feel to heal, so bring on all the feels.  

Sarah's book list on to give you all the feels

Sarah Hanks Why did Sarah love this book?

Before I Called You Mine truly brought me through the gamut of emotions with a plot that pitted the main character’s two deepest desires against each other: becoming an adoptive mother and true love.

As a mom who has adopted twice, my heart thrummed in time with Lauren’s as she pursued her passion of adopting, only to come up against an obstacle she never expected. This journey of the heart was so relatable and heartfelt, I couldn’t help but walk it with the characters. And wow! What characters.

A novel about tough choices and how following God’s path brings the sweetest rewards in the end. This is a lesson I’ve learned repeatedly in my own life. How encouraging for this book to remind me. 

By Nicole Deese,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Before I Called You Mine as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Lauren Bailey may be a romantic at heart, but after a decade of matchmaking schemes gone wrong, there's only one match she's committed to now--the one that will make her a mother. Lauren is a dedicated first-grade teacher in Idaho, and her love for children has led her to the path of international adoption. To satisfy her adoption agency's requirements, she gladly agreed to remain single for the foreseeable future; however, just as her long wait comes to an end, Lauren is blindsided by a complication she never saw coming: Joshua Avery.

Joshua may be a substitute teacher by day,…


Book cover of Plot Twist

Angela Ruth Strong Author Of Husband Auditions

From my list on funny and faith-based romances.

Why am I passionate about this?

When I used to pick up my youngest from elementary school, instead of asking about her day, I’d say, “Tell me your stories.” Her stories always ended with, “And in my head I said…” After laughing at all her unspoken responses, I finally started to tease, “You’re really funny in your head.” That’s me too. She and I see the world as a cartoon for entertainment. I don’t have the comedic timing to say my funny thoughts aloud, but they transfer well to paper where I can share them with readers. And I still look for stories from people who are funny in their head.

Angela's book list on funny and faith-based romances

Angela Ruth Strong Why did Angela love this book?

This is not your average romance novel. Aspiring screenwriter Olivia runs into an aspiring actor one February 3, and they make a pact to meet back up at the same coffee shop ten years later to encourage each other’s success. The book spans those ten years, but we only read about what happens on each February 3rd when many whimsical coincidences conspire to connect Olivia’s love life to her mystery man. This unique narrative is filled with both wit and grit, and I couldn’t get enough of it.

By Bethany Turner,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Plot Twist as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

An aspiring screenwriter has a chance encounter with an actor who could be the man of her dreams. Over the next ten years, she'll write the story . . . but will he end up being the star?

February 4, 2003, promises to be a typical day for Olivia Ross-a greeting card writer whose passion project is a screenplay of her own. But after she and a handsome actor have a magical meet-cute in a coffee shop, they make a spontaneous pact: in ten years, after they've found the success they're just sure they're going to achieve, they'll return to…


Book cover of Book Nerds and Boyfriends

Angela Ruth Strong Author Of Husband Auditions

From my list on funny and faith-based romances.

Why am I passionate about this?

When I used to pick up my youngest from elementary school, instead of asking about her day, I’d say, “Tell me your stories.” Her stories always ended with, “And in my head I said…” After laughing at all her unspoken responses, I finally started to tease, “You’re really funny in your head.” That’s me too. She and I see the world as a cartoon for entertainment. I don’t have the comedic timing to say my funny thoughts aloud, but they transfer well to paper where I can share them with readers. And I still look for stories from people who are funny in their head.

Angela's book list on funny and faith-based romances

Angela Ruth Strong Why did Angela love this book?

This book is actually a novella collection of three romances, so…bonus! Sarah Monzon writes some of the best chemistry, and she’s written in a few different genres, but I love this one best because of the humor. And because of Book Nerds!!! I related a little too well to the author character who locked herself in the trunk of a car for research. Thankfully, my friend didn’t get pulled over by a cute police officer with me in the trunk, but still. This trilogy is so fun, and this author is one you’ll want to watch.

By Sarah Monzon,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Book Nerds and Boyfriends as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A collection of three bookish novellas

Bookishly Ever After

It all started with a bet and a book.Emory Blake is the ultimate bibliophile. She’d take curling up with a good novel over a night on the town any day of the week. But then best friend Tate Woodby accuses her of living between the pages of her paperbacks instead of the real world, and makes a bet that will force her to experience the adventures of her fictional friends…instead of just reading about them. With her face no longer buried in books, Emory must confront the pain of the past.…


Book cover of Lotus

Anna Paulsen Author Of The Truth About Adira

From my list on romance that stay with you long after you finish.

Why am I passionate about this?

Seeing couples that are still in love after being with one another for 50+ years has always warmed my heart. Seeing my grandparents hold one another’s hands and look at each other with love always made me hopeful to find such a love. I have not been blessed to have that kind of love in my life (yet) but that does not stop me from looking for it and finding it in books. The characters in my favorite books are ones I identify with on some level. They are loyal, do not give up and they love wholeheartedly, even if they make some missteps along the way, the end destination always ends up being deeply in love. And I love cheering on characters when they deal with everyday issues and roadblocks on this journey of love. 

Anna's book list on romance that stay with you long after you finish

Anna Paulsen Why did Anna love this book?

This story consumed me and I could not put the book down. I would wake up in the middle of the night to read more of it. As an avid reader, I have books that I liked, books that I loved, and then I have a list of books that are riveting and that speak to my soul. Those are the books I reread and think about often. This book was saved under that last list. Watching Oliver interact with everyone after the ordeal he went through was soul-shattering. Seeing Sydney be a source of comfort, patience and a well of overflowing love to him was just beautiful. Hartmann even made me feel emotions for someone I thought I would initially hate, but ended up feeling bad for at the end of the book. She is a magician with words. That’s why it is a top pick for me for…

By Jennifer Hartmann,

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

To the rest of the world, he was the little boy who went missing on the Fourth of July.
To me, he was everything.
My heart hasn't been the same since he disappeared, but I've learned to build my life around that missing piece.
Twenty-two years later, the last thing I expect is for that missing piece to come back.
His name is Oliver Lynch, and this is his story.
This is our story.


Book cover of Ivory's Story

Susie Williamson Author Of Return of the Mantra

From my list on SFF stories with complex heroines.

Why am I passionate about this?

I adore the SFF genre for its scope of limitless creativity. In particular, I look to both read and write books that incorporate contemporary issues, represent marginalised sections of society, challenge stereotypes, and generally make you think – themes that don’t shy away from tough topics, while interspersed in plenty of colour. In my own epic fantasy series, Blood Gift Chronicles, themes include wildlife and the environment, social justice and marginalisation, magic, animism, and dragons. I have a definite soft spot for complex women and girl protagonists and am excited by the range of voices coming through in the genre. I hope you enjoy my recommendations as much as I have.

Susie's book list on SFF stories with complex heroines

Susie Williamson Why did Susie love this book?

Ivory Tembo is a wonderfully dynamic character, brought to life with sensitivity and fascinating insight. The story is set in modern-day Sydney where a killer stalks the night, with Ivory Tembo the officer investigating the brutal murders. Extraordinary character development unfolds in just a few pages, from Ivory’s fractured youth growing up in foster care, to an emotionally vulnerable young woman, to her present-day tough, determined persona that serves her well as a detective. Forced to delve into her heritage, she is supported by a vibrant cast who bring folktale to life. With the help of a medicine woman, the mystery ventures into the supernatural, taking Ivory on an instinctive journey to unify two worlds.

By Eugen Bacon,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Ivory's Story as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Long ago, a good man transgressed and was brutally punished, his physical form killed and his soul split asunder. Now, one half of his ancient soul seeks to reunite with its lost twin, a search that leaves murder in its wake...


In the streets of modern day Sydney a killer stalks the night, slaughtering innocents, leaving bodies mutilated. The victims seem unconnected, yet Investigating Officer Ivory Tembo is convinced the killings are anything but random. The case soon leads Ivory into places she never imagined. In order to stop the killings and save the life of the man she loves,…


Book cover of True Love Story

Maggi Myers Author Of The Final Piece

From my list on love the second time around.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve been an incurable romantic for as long as I can remember. In fact, when I was in middle school, my friends and I started writing what would now be considered novellas. We would write our stories during class and trade notebooks in the hallways between bells. That is until I was caught writing one of my opuses in pre-algebra. There was nothing like the dopamine hit of writing those first stories that would deter me! The characters in my head grew up as I did and I found myself passionate about the telling of second chances in life and in love. 

Maggi's book list on love the second time around

Maggi Myers Why did Maggi love this book?

Willow Aster’s debut novel is one of my all-time favorite second chance romances. The story of Sparrow and Ian is one of deep love and unbelievably bad timing. Life seems to constantly put them together only to rip them apart but somehow they keep finding each other. True Love Story made me believe in soulmates and the power of letting go of the past to create a beautiful future. It will break your heart and mend it back together in the most beautiful way!

By Willow Aster,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked True Love Story as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Growing up in an idealistic home, Sparrow Fisher is sheltered and innocent. When she meets Ian Sterling, a musician who is rising in popularity, she instantly falls for his charm. The attraction is instant, but their relationship isn't so simple.At different places in their lives, Sparrow is off to college in New York, and Ian is traveling the country with the band. Over a five year span, Sparrow and Ian run into each other in unusual places. Each time, Sparrow has to decide if she can trust him and if he feels the same for her. It’s hard to not…


Book cover of Songs in Ursa Major

Heather J. Bennett Author Of Helplessly Hoping

From my list on 60s 70s rock and roll stories.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve been fascinated by musicians almost my entire life, but I always wanted more than the slick on-screen video, profile on the Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous, or interview. I wanted to know the whys and hows: why they wrote a certain way, what made them want to be a musician first, and where the inspiration and determination came from. What are they like when they’re hanging out at home, not in the spotlight? This research led me to the music and musicians of Laurel Canyon in particular and how one small area of Los Angeles has managed to create music still influential today. 

Heather's book list on 60s 70s rock and roll stories

Heather J. Bennett Why did Heather love this book?

I love this book because it honestly sets the scene of the early 1970s rock world with such heart and passion for the music, the musicians of the time, and the challenges they faced in the industry and even from their peers.

I wanted to shake the main character sometimes, but the world she builds is so realistic and engaging that I felt like I was in it with her. When I found out that it was loosely based on an actual romance of a popular 70s singer/songwriter couple, I was even more intrigued. It paints a vivid picture of love, friendship, and relationships, centered around the 70s rock music and lifestyle I love. 

By Emma Brodie,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Songs in Ursa Major as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

'Utterly transporting' Stylist

'A gorgeous, one-gulp novel' Red

'Emma Brodie perfectly channels the languorous romance of the time . . . I got chills' Kevin Kwan, No.1 bestselling author of Crazy Rich Asians

Behind every greatest hit, is an even greater love story.

The summer of 1969

From the moment Jane Quinn steps barefoot onto the main stage at Island Folk festival, her golden hair glinting, her voice soaring into the summer dusk, a star is born - and so is a passionate love story.

Jane's band hits the road with none other than Jesse Reid, the musician whose bright…


Book cover of Dreamland

Judy Prescott Marshall Author Of Still Crazy

From my list on later in life romance.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m an avid reader. I still love to hold them in my hands. Not long ago I went dumpster diving for an entire set of encyclopedias. To say I love books is an understatement. Books have always been my passion, destination, and my closest friend.

Judy's book list on later in life romance

Judy Prescott Marshall Why did Judy love this book?

Nicholas Sparks has always been high on my list of authors to read. Once again, he reminds me why I love reading his stories. Dreamland takes you on an emotional ride. First, we learn the meaning of young love—then our eyes are opened by the often pain afflicted by falling in love with the wrong person. But, in the end it all comes together in a surprising way.

By Nicholas Sparks,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Dreamland as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • A twist you won’t see coming. A love story you’ll never forget.
 
From the acclaimed author of The Wish comes a powerful novel about risking everything for a dream—and whether it’s possible to leave the past behind.
 
ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR: PopSugar

Colby Mills once felt destined for a musical career, until tragedy grounded his aspirations. Now the head of a small family farm in North Carolina, he spontaneously takes a gig playing at a bar in St. Pete Beach, Florida, seeking a rare break from his duties at home.…


Book cover of The Secrets of Sir Richard Kenworthy

Dorothy A. Bell Author Of Waltz on the Big Meadow

From my list on historical romance on dilemmas and history.

Why am I passionate about this?

The books I read have to draw me in like a good movie. It has to be relatable as far as characters and plot go. I want to see it, smell it, and taste it. We’ve moved a lot, and every time we’ve moved, we always check out the local history and geology. There are so many stories to tell. I’ll see the name of a road, a creek, or a mountain, and it will spark a story within me, like seeing a really good movie with great actors. 

Dorothy's book list on historical romance on dilemmas and history

Dorothy A. Bell Why did Dorothy love this book?

This author is great at setting a scene. It was a fast-paced romance that concentrated on the man's determination and satisfied my craving for a strong flavor of the period with plenty of historical backdrop. I was enthralled, captivated, and entertained by the dialog and the maneuvering of the characters' exchanges.

The plot was simple and straightforward but it never lagged or ceased to keep me reading.

By Julia Quinn,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Secrets of Sir Richard Kenworthy as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

From #1 New York Times bestselling author, and creator of the Bridgerton series, Julia Quinn presents the fourth and final installment in the Bridgerton adjacent Regency era-set world featuring the romantic adventures of the well-meaning but less-than-accomplished Smythe-Smith musicians. In this case, cellist Iris Smythe-Smith finds herself courted by a suspiciously eager nobleman—but is he only playing with her heartstrings?

Sir Richard Kenworthy has less than a month to find a bride. He knows he can’t be too picky, but when he sees Iris Smythe-Smith hiding behind her cello at her family’s infamous musicale, he thinks he might have struck…


Book cover of My Stubborn Heart
Book cover of Before I Called You Mine
Book cover of Plot Twist

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