Because Sometimes, Reality is Overrated
Let’s be honest—sometimes life is just a lot. Work is exhausting, your ex is thriving (how dare they), and your to-do list is longer than a CVS receipt. That’s where books come in. Nothing hits quite like a story that yanks you out of reality and makes you feel something—whether it’s heartache, joy, nostalgia, or a mix of everything at once.
I’ve rounded up 20 must-read books that will transport you to another world (or another emotional breakdown, no judgment). From historical fiction tearjerkers to unforgettable love stories, these books will have you hooked. Grab some tissues, a glass of wine (or three), and let’s dive in.
The Nightingale – Kristin Hannah
Keywords: Historical fiction, WW2 novels, emotional books
Two sisters in Nazi-occupied France take vastly different paths to survive and resist. Vianne, the rule-follower, must make impossible choices to protect her daughter, while Isabelle, the rebel, risks her life in the Resistance. If you don’t cry by the end, you might need to check if you have a heart.
The Women – Kristin Hannah
Keywords: Vietnam War fiction, strong female protagonist, must-read historical novels
Frankie McGrath, a privileged young woman, defies expectations and enlists as a nurse in Vietnam, only to realize the war follows her home. This is a powerful, deeply emotional story about sacrifice, resilience, and the invisible scars that war leaves behind.
The Seven Year Slip – Ashley Poston
Keywords: Time travel romance, contemporary fiction, feel-good books
What if your dream apartment came with a tenant from seven years in the past? When overworked book publicist Clementine meets a charming, slightly chaotic chef in her new home, she realizes time might not be as linear as she thought. A sweet and poignant story about timing, love, and second chances.
The Things We Cannot Say – Kelly Rimmer
Keywords: WW2 love story, historical drama, dual timeline novels
In the present day, a woman caring for her nonverbal son is sent on a journey to uncover her grandmother’s hidden past in Nazi-occupied Poland. Meanwhile, in the 1940s, a young girl risks everything for the love of her life. A dual-timeline novel that will gut-punch you in the best way.
The Time Traveler’s Wife – Audrey Niffenegger
Keywords: Timeless romance, classic love stories, books that make you cry
Henry has a rare genetic disorder that makes him time travel at random, and Clare has spent her entire life waiting for him to return. This book is a beautifully complicated love story about fate, patience, and the cruel tricks time can play.
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo – Taylor Jenkins Reid
Keywords: Hollywood drama, historical fiction, LGBTQ+ romance
Aging Hollywood icon Evelyn Hugo is finally spilling her secrets, and aspiring journalist Monique gets the exclusive. But why Monique? As Evelyn’s tumultuous marriages unfold, so does an unexpected, heartbreaking revelation.
Swear on This Life – Renée Carlino
Keywords: Second chance romance, emotional reads, books about writers
Imagine finding a bestselling novel that mirrors your own painful past—and realizing your childhood love wrote it. Emiline must confront the story she left behind and decide if she’s ready for a second chance at love. A deeply emotional and unique love story.
The Wedding People – Alison Espach
Keywords: Wedding novels, complicated relationships, summer reads
A destination wedding, an unexpected reunion, and a fake relationship for the ages. This novel is a sharp and witty exploration of modern love, obligation, and the chaos that weddings bring. Perfect if you love a little messiness with your romance.
The Midnight Library – Matt Haig
Keywords: Existential fiction, books about choices, feel-good novels
Nora Seed finds herself in a mystical library between life and death, where each book is a version of the life she could have lived. As she explores different paths, she learns what truly matters. A comforting, philosophical read for when you’re feeling a little lost.
Beach Read – Emily Henry
Keywords: Enemies to lovers, romance novels, books about writers
Okay, confession time—I’m not the biggest Emily Henry fan, but I know people love her, so here we are. Two writers, stuck in a creative rut, make a deal to swap genres: she’ll try literary fiction, and he’ll attempt romance. A witty, slow-burn story with solid banter.
Winter Garden – Kristin Hannah
Keywords: Family drama, historical fiction, mother-daughter relationships
Two sisters uncover their mother’s painful past in Soviet Russia, unraveling family secrets that change everything. A haunting, deeply emotional read that lingers long after you turn the last page.
It Ends With Us – Colleen Hoover
Keywords: Emotional romance, books about resilience, must-read novels
Lily’s relationship with Ryle seems perfect—until it isn’t. When her first love, Atlas, resurfaces, she’s forced to confront painful truths about love, trauma, and breaking cycles. This one hurts, but it’s worth it.
Part of Your World – Abby Jimenez
Keywords: Opposites attract, small-town romance, heartwarming love stories
A city doctor and a small-town carpenter from two wildly different worlds meet by accident—and then keep meeting. Sweet, funny, and full of heart, this one is a perfect feel-good romance with depth.
Before We Were Strangers – Renée Carlino
Keywords: Missed connections, second-chance love, emotional reads
A missed connection ad reunites two lovers years after they lost each other. Poignant and heart-wrenching, this book captures the bittersweet beauty of what-ifs.
Daisy Jones & The Six – Taylor Jenkins Reid
Keywords: Rockstar drama, 70s music scene, book-to-TV adaptations
A Fleetwood Mac-inspired novel about a legendary band, their rise and fall, and the messy relationships that fueled their music. The interview format makes it impossible to put down.
Final Word
Books have that magical ability to transport us, to make us feel deeply, and sometimes, to break our hearts in the best way possible. Whether you need a good cry, a swoony romance, or a deep existential ponder (The Midnight Library, I’m looking at you), this list has something for every mood.
Now, which one are you picking up first? Let me know in the comments, and happy reading!
