If you’ve ever stayed up way too late because just one more chapter turned into ten, then you’re probably already a fan of the best Emily Henry books—or you’re about to be. Emily Henry has quickly become the go-to author for feel-good reads that tug at your heartstrings and make you laugh out loud (sometimes on the same page).
Her books are packed with sharp banter, messy but lovable characters, and the kind of emotional depth that sticks with you long after you’ve finished. Whether you’re into friends-to-lovers, enemies-to-lovers, or just need a cozy escape, she’s got you covered.
In this post, I’m breaking down her most loved novels. So if you’re wondering where to start or what to read next, this guide to the best Emily Henry books will help you find your perfect match.
1. Why Readers Love Emily Henry
There’s a reason the best Emily Henry books fly off the shelves. Her stories strike the perfect balance between humor, heart, and healing. One moment you’re laughing out loud, and the next you’re wiping away unexpected tears.
Her characters feel real—flawed, funny, and completely relatable. You root for them not just to fall in love, but to grow along the way. Even side characters are memorable, adding depth to every scene.
Emily Henry also nails romantic chemistry. The tension, the banter, the slow-burn; every relationship unfolds in a way that feels natural, not forced.
And let’s not forget the settings. Whether it’s a cozy lakeside cabin or a charming small town, her vivid descriptions make you feel like you’re right there. It’s that immersive, emotional storytelling that keeps readers coming back for more.
2. Top Emily Henry Books: Ranked Favorites You’ll Want on Your Shelf
Ready to find your next five-star read? Here are the best Emily Henry books, ranked by readers and rom-com lovers alike. Each one brings something special to the table—whether you love a swoony slow burn, emotional healing, or bookish banter that’ll make you grin.
1. Book Lovers (2022)
If you’re a fan of books about books, start here.
This story follows Nora, a sharp, ambitious literary agent, and Charlie, a grumpy editor she can’t seem to escape, especially when they both end up in the same sleepy town.
📚 Key themes: family bonds, career vs. love, small-town charm
💛 Why readers love it: The dialogue is quick and clever, the chemistry is top-tier, and the nods to rom-com tropes feel fresh and fun.
2. Beach Read (2020)
Don’t let the title fool you, this book has serious emotional depth.
January is a romance writer. Gus writes literary fiction. Both have writer’s block. When they strike a deal to swap genres for the summer, things get interesting…and personal.
📚 Key themes: grief, creative burnout, opposites attract
💛 Why readers love it: The banter is on point, the emotions hit hard, and the characters feel raw and real. It’s the perfect mix of heartbreak and hope.
3. People We Meet on Vacation (2021)
A love letter to friendship, travel, and second chances.
Poppy and Alex have been best friends forever, until a falling out splits them apart. When they agree to take one last trip together, old feelings bubble back to the surface.
📚 Key themes: friends-to-lovers, travel nostalgia, unspoken love
💛 Why readers love it: It’s warm, slow-burning, and full of longing. The dual timeline keeps you hooked, and the ending is worth every page.
4. Happy Place (2023)
What happens when exes pretend to be together for one last vacation with friends?
Harriet and Wyn are no longer a couple, but they haven’t told anyone. With their close-knit friend group reuniting at a dreamy Maine cottage, the pair must fake it or finally face the truth.
📚 Key themes: heartbreak, found family, personal growth
💛 Why readers love it: It’s deeply emotional with a nostalgic, summery vibe. The friendships feel real, and the romance will have you reaching for tissues and texting your best friend.
5. Funny Story (2024)
Heartbreak turns into an unexpected new beginning, with a touch of fake dating and lots of wine.
Daphne is newly single after her fiancé leaves her for his childhood best friend. Stuck in the same small town, she moves in with the other jilted ex, Miles. They couldn’t be more different, but a fake dating scheme might just be the start of something real.
📚 Key themes: starting over, opposites attract, found friendship
💛 Why readers love it: It’s funny, heartfelt, and packed with emotional depth. Daphne’s journey from heartbreak to healing is both relatable and refreshing, and her chemistry with Miles is pure joy.
Each book brings something a little different, but all are packed with the warmth and wit Emily Henry fans adore. Let’s find out which one is right for you next!
4. Which Emily Henry Book Should You Start With?
Not sure where to begin? Here’s a quick guide to help you pick the best Emily Henry book for your current reading mood. No wrong answers—just the right vibe for you.
👉 Want a classic rom-com with slow-burn charm?
Start with People We Meet on Vacation. It’s funny, sweet, and full of that will-they-won’t-they tension that keeps you flipping pages.
👉 Love bookish themes and literary banter?
Book Lovers is your match. It’s made for readers who adore clever dialogue, enemies-to-lovers sparks, and stories about stories.
👉 Craving emotional intensity and healing?
Go with Happy Place. It’s tender, nostalgic, and perfect if you’re in the mood for a romance that hits you right in the heart.
👉 Looking for something layered yet laugh-out-loud funny?
Try Beach Read. It mixes grief, romance, and creative burnout with sharp wit and unforgettable chemistry.
No matter where you start, you’re in for a story that feels both honest and hopeful—classic Emily Henry.
FAQ: Emily Henry Books
Q: What Emily Henry book should I read first?
A: A great place to start is People We Meet on Vacation if you love classic rom-com vibes and slow-burn friendships. If you’re more into bookish banter and enemies-to-lovers tension, Book Lovers is a fan favorite. Each of her novels stands alone, so you can jump in wherever the theme speaks to you most!
Q: Which Emily Henry book is the spiciest?
A: While Emily Henry’s books aren’t overly graphic, Book Lovers and Happy Place have the most “fade-to-black but steamy enough” scenes. Think emotional chemistry, well-written tension, and a little heat—without veering into explicit territory.
Q: Is Happy Place appropriate for 13-year-olds?
A: Happy Place is geared toward adult readers and includes mature themes like breakups, emotional burnout, and some light sexual content. While it’s not explicit, the emotional complexity and romantic elements are best suited for older teens and adults. For younger readers, consider starting with young adult fiction instead.
Want more recommendations? Check out this list of the best romance books right now!