Romantic comedy films are the epitome of comfort and light-hearted escapism. Their characters are often easy to root for and you know whatever crisis occurs that threatens their happily-ever-after will resolve itself before the credits roll. Maybe the one thing that can surpass a rom-com movie is a rom-com book, as you get to spend longer in the characters’ world and fall deeper in love with their love story. As a result, I’ve compiled a list of books that are guaranteed to elicit the same cheesy smiles you get when watching two people realise they’re meant for each other…
When Harry Met Sally + Josh & Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating
Shared premise: An unlikely pair of best friends try to help the other mend their hearts and find love.
You’ve Got Mail + Hana Khan Carries On
Shared premise: Owners of competing businesses unknowingly find solace in each other online.
To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before + Excuse While I Ugly Cry
Shared premise: A high school student’s deeply personal letters/journal goes missing, forcing her to team up with a fellow student to deal with the fallout.
Set It Up + Weather Girl
Shared premise: Two fed up employees join forces to set up their bosses, only for sparks to fly between themselves.
Always Be My Maybe + Love and Other Words
Shared premise: After childhood sweethearts chance upon a reunion, they have to sort through their history to see if they have a future.
The Proposal + The Unhoneymooners
Shared premise: Despite their mutual animosity, two people pretend to be engaged/newly married to help protect their careers.
Crazy Rich Asians + Party of Two
Shared premise: A woman is swept off her feet by a charming, wealthy man but is forced to deal with intense scrutiny.
The Wedding Planner + The Secret Bridesmaid
Shared premise: An expert wedding planner develops feelings for someone strictly off-limits.
Love, Rosie + Dear Emmie Blue
Shared premise: Childhood friends pine after each other but can’t seem to get the timing right.
How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days + You Deserve Each Other
Shared premise: Warring partners try to force the other to end the relationship by carrying out an escalating series of schemes.