Emily Henry has become a beloved name in the literary world. She captivates readers with her blend of heartfelt romance, witty dialogue, and deep emotional exploration. With an impressive range of both Young Adult (YA) and Adult Fiction, and several bestsellers under her belt, it can be challenging to decide where to start.
If you’re asking, Which Emily Henry book should I start with?—this guide will walk you through her entire body of work to help you find the perfect entry point.
Overview of Emily Henry’s Books
Emily Henry’s bibliography is divided into two distinct categories: Young Adult Fiction and Adult Fiction. Before diving into specific recommendations, let’s take a quick look at each of these.
Young Adult Fiction:
The Love That Split the World (2016): This debut novel blends romance with a touch of science fiction and mythology. It follows Natalie, who must navigate love, loss, and time travel to save the boy she loves.
A Million Junes (2017): A magical realism story about grief, family secrets, and first love. June O’Donnell and Saul Angert must uncover the truth about their families’ long-standing feud while dealing with mysterious happenings in their small town.
When the Sky Fell on Splendor (2019): This novel is a mix of science fiction and adventure. It focuses on a group of friends who experience a strange event that changes their lives forever. It’s a story about friendship, trauma, and the mysteries of the universe.
Hello Girls (2019): Co-authored with Brittany Cavallaro, this novel is a feminist take on Thelma & Louise. It follows two teenage girls, Winona and Lucille, as they escape their abusive homes and embark on a road trip of self-discovery and survival.
Adult Fiction:
Beach Read (2020): A romantic comedy about two writers—one a romance author and the other a literary fiction author—who challenge each other to swap genres for the summer. Set in a charming beach town, it’s a story of self-discovery and the transformative power of love.
People We Meet on Vacation (2021): A story about two best friends who travel together every summer. Over the years, their relationship has evolved, leading to an inevitable question: Can friends turn into something more? It’s a heartwarming story about second chances and the blurred lines between friendship and romance.
Book Lovers (2022): A love letter to the book industry, this novel follows Nora, a literary agent, and Charlie, an editor, as they navigate their professional rivalry and unexpected attraction. It’s a witty and introspective look at life, love, and the stories we tell ourselves.
Happy Place (2023): A story about reconnecting with lost love, Happy Place explores the complexities of relationships as Harriet and Wyn pretend to be together during a friend reunion, despite their recent breakup. It’s a deep dive into the messiness of love and the longing for happiness.
Funny Story (2024): This novel continues to showcase Henry’s signature blend of humor and heart. Funny Story revolves around the idea of second chances and finding humor in the unexpected. The details are still emerging, but it promises to be another hit in Henry’s adult fiction repertoire.
How to Decide Which Emily Henry Book to Read First?
Choosing your first Emily Henry book depends on what you’re in the mood for. Here are some factors to consider:
Genre Preference: Are you in the mood for YA with elements of fantasy and magical realism, or are you leaning towards contemporary romance with a mix of humor and depth?
Themes: Do you prefer stories focused on family secrets, grief, and self-discovery, or are you drawn to tales of romance, friendship, and the complexities of adult relationships?
Character Dynamics: Whether you enjoy the exploration of teenage friendships, first love, and family ties or the mature, often complicated relationships found in adult fiction, there’s a book for you.
By considering these elements, you can better determine which of Emily Henry’s books will resonate most with you.
Which Emily Henry Book Should You Start With?
Now that you have an idea of what each book offers, let’s match you with the perfect Emily Henry novel depending on your reading preferences:
If You’re Curious About Emily Henry’s Debut Novel:
Start with: The Love That Split the World (2016)
Why? As Emily Henry’s debut novel, this YA story blends romance with time-travel and fantasy elements. It introduces her signature style of mixing emotional depth with speculative fiction, making it a great starting point for those interested in her early work.
If You Love Young Adult and Magical Realism:
Start with: A Million Junes (2017)
Why? This novel is perfect if you’re drawn to stories about family legacies, magical elements, and the bittersweet nature of first love. It beautifully blends reality with the mystical, making it ideal for fans of magical realism.
If You’re Interested in Friendship and Adventure:
Start with: When the Sky Fell on Splendor (2019)
Why? This YA novel offers a thrilling ride through a sci-fi adventure that also delves deep into the bonds of friendship and coping with trauma. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy stories about close-knit friends facing extraordinary circumstances.
If You’re Looking for a Feminist Road Trip Story:
Start with: Hello Girls (2019)
Why? Co-authored with Brittany Cavallaro, this is an empowering and gripping read that reimagines the classic road trip story with a strong feminist twist. It’s perfect for those interested in resilience, survival, and breaking free from oppressive circumstances.
If You Enjoy Beach Settings and Introspective Romance:
Start with: Beach Read (2020)
Why? This novel is ideal if you love stories about self-discovery, second chances, and the healing power of love. The beach town setting adds a cozy, escapist vibe that makes it an ideal summer read.
If You Love Travel and Friendship Stories:
Start with: People We Meet on Vacation (2021)
Why? The dynamic between the two protagonists, who are best friends, makes for a compelling and heartfelt read. It’s perfect for those who appreciate the slow burn of a relationship that evolves over time, intertwined with wanderlust.
If You’re Interested in the Publishing World and Complex Relationships:
Start with: Book Lovers (2022)
Why? This novel is not just a romance; it’s a love letter to books and the people who create them. If you’re intrigued by the literary world and enjoy stories with sharp, witty banter, Book Lovers is the perfect choice.
If You’re Fascinated by Complex Relationship Dynamics:
Start with: Happy Place (2023)
Why? This book delves into the nuances of love and friendship, offering a more mature take on romantic relationships. It’s a must-read for those interested in exploring the messiness and beauty of long-term relationships.
If You’re Looking for Humor Mixed with Tragedy:
Start with: Funny Story (2024)
Why? Emily Henry’s latest novel promises a nuanced look at humor, tragedy, and the complexities of modern relationships, making it an intriguing choice for those who enjoy a balance of light and dark themes.
In What Order Should I Read Emily Henry Books?
You do not need to read Emily Henry’s books in order. Each of her novels is a standalone story, meaning they are not connected by plot or characters. You can start with any book. Whether you start with Beach Read, People We Meet on Vacation, or any other title, you won’t miss out on any critical backstory.
Why You Might Consider Reading Them in Order:
Track Her Growth: Reading in order of publication can give you a sense of how Henry’s writing has evolved over time. You’ll notice how her themes, character development, and narrative techniques have matured with each novel.
Subtle Connections: Some readers enjoy observing how recurring themes, like love, self-discovery, and personal growth, are explored differently in each book. Reading them in order can provide a deeper understanding of how these themes evolve in her work.
Why Order Doesn’t Matter:
Standalone Stories: Each book is self-contained, so you won’t feel lost or out of the loop if you read them out of order. You can start with any book based on what interests you most at the moment.
Personal Preference: You have the freedom to choose the book that resonates most with you at any given moment. Maybe you’re in the mood for a breezy summer romance, or perhaps you want something with a bit more depth. You can pick based on your mood without any restrictions. Reading what appeals to you most ensures a more enjoyable experience.
Ultimately, whether you choose to read her books in order or not, you’ll find the same wit, charm, and emotional depth that make Emily Henry’s novels so beloved. So feel free to dive into whichever title catches your eye first!
A Basic Reading Order:
Anyways, if you’re looking for a basic reading order to follow for Emily Henry’s books, you can start with her adult fiction novels, which are her most popular works, and then explore her young adult fiction. Here’s a suggested order:
- Beach Read (2020)
- People We Meet on Vacation (2021)
- Book Lovers (2022)
- Happy Place (2023)
- When the Sky Fell on Splendor (2019)
- A Million Junes (2017)
- The Love That Split the World (2016)
- Hello Girls (2019)
- Funny Story (2024)
Are Emily Henry’s Books Worth the Hype?
Emily Henry’s books have garnered significant attention and praise, and for good reason. Her novels blend humor, emotion, and relatable characters. It makes them accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of readers. Here’s why they might be worth the hype:
A Fresh Take on Romance: If you think you’ve seen it all in the romance genre, think again. Emily Henry reinvents classic tropes in ways that feel exciting and new. Her stories don’t just follow the typical romantic formula—they elevate it, blending humor with genuine emotion. This isn’t your average love story; it’s a journey of growth, connection, and self-discovery.
Characters You Can’t Forget: Emily Henry doesn’t create characters; she brings them to life. They’re complex, flawed, and real in a way that makes you feel like you’re catching up with old friends. Whether it’s the tension between two rivals in Beach Read or the rekindling of a friendship in People We Meet on Vacation, her characters’ journeys are so relatable that you can’t help but see a bit of yourself in them.
Emotion That Stays With You: Henry has a knack for tugging at your heartstrings. Her books are more than just entertaining reads—they’re experiences that leave a lasting impact. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and you’ll find yourself thinking about her stories long after you’ve turned the last page.
Universally Loved: There’s a reason Emily Henry’s books are constantly trending and topping bestseller lists. Readers of all kinds—whether you’re a hardcore romance fan or someone who usually stays away from the genre—find something special in her writing. It’s not just hype; it’s genuine love for stories that resonate deeply with readers.
Perfect Escapes: In a world where we all need a little escape, Emily Henry’s books offer the perfect getaway. They transport you to new places, introduce you to unforgettable characters, and provide a break from reality in the best way possible.
If you’re looking for books that offer more than just a good story—books that make you feel and think—then Emily Henry’s novels are exactly what you need to add to your reading list.
Conclusion
Emily Henry’s diverse body of work ensures that there’s something for everyone. Whether it’s the laugh-out-loud moments, the heartwarming connections, or the poignant reflections, her books offer a variety of experiences. From magical YA novels to heartwarming adult romances, there’s a perfect starting point for you.
If you’re still undecided, I recommend beginning with Beach Read for its universally appealing mix of romance, humor, and introspection. But no matter where you start, you’re sure to find yourself captivated by Emily Henry’s storytelling. You won’t be disappointed.
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