If you’ve felt your heartstrings tugged by the profound love story of Noah and Allie, you’re in for a delightful discovery. In this article, we’ve curated a list of 11 exquisite books like The Notebook that capture the same timeless allure, each offering a unique blend of emotions, unforgettable characters, and heartwarming narratives. These novels are your passport to a world where love knows no bounds, where passion and devotion stand the test of time.
Books Like The Notebook
The Lucky One (2008)
by Nicholas Sparks
Also made into a film in 2012, this book by the author of ‘The Notebook’ is another sob-fest. A romantic drama novel written by Nicholas Sparks, ‘The Lucky One’ revolves around Logan Thibault, a Marine who survives multiple dangerous missions during his service in Iraq. One day, he discovers a photograph of a woman amidst the rubble, and he becomes convinced that it brings him good luck.
After returning home, Logan embarks on a journey to find the woman in the picture. His search leads him to a small town in North Carolina, where he meets Elizabeth “Beth” Green, a single mother who runs a dog kennel with her grandmother, Nana.
Despite his initial reluctance to reveal the true reason for seeking her out, Logan eventually becomes involved in Beth’s life, forming a bond with her and her young son, Ben. As their relationship deepens, Logan finds it difficult to disclose the real reason he came to their town.
However, as their love grows stronger, secrets begin to surface, threatening their newfound happiness. A past mistake and a jealous ex-boyfriend add tension to their relationship, putting their love and future together at risk.
Total Pages– 326 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.12
Amazon Rating– 4.6
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 10 hours and 52 minutes to finish The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks.
Young Hearts Crying (1984)
by Richard Yates
‘Young Hearts Crying’ follows the life of Michael Davenport, an aspiring writer and the embodiment of post-war America’s ambitions and disillusionments. Set in the 1950s and ’60s, the novel captures the struggles and complexities of love, marriage, and artistic pursuits.
Michael’s dreams of becoming a successful novelist lead him to New York City, where he meets and falls in love with aspiring actress Lucy Blaine. They marry, and as Michael’s career faces setbacks, Lucy becomes the family’s main breadwinner. The pressures of financial instability, artistic failures, and personal insecurities take a toll on their relationship.
Throughout the novel, Richard Yates explores the disintegration of Michael and Lucy’s marriage and the challenges they face in balancing their artistic passions with the demands of everyday life. The story delves into themes of ambition, love, infidelity, and the struggle to find meaning in a society marked by materialism and emotional detachment and will remind you of ‘The Notebook.’
Total Pages– 422 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 3.90
Amazon Rating– 4.1
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 14 hours and 4 minutes to finish Young Hearts Crying by Richard Yates.
Me Before You (2012)
by Jojo Moyes
A heartbreaking romance novel that will crush and smash your heart in a million pieces, just like ‘The Notebook,’ (this one requires you one free day, multiple boxes of tissues and a tub of ice-cream)
Louisa Clark, a cheerful and quirky young woman, unexpectedly finds herself employed as a caregiver for Will Traynor, a wealthy and successful man who is now paralyzed from a tragic accident. At first, Will’s bitter and cynical demeanour clashes with Louisa’s bubbly personality, but they eventually form an unlikely bond.
As Louisa learns more about Will’s past and the circumstances leading to his disability, she becomes determined to show him that life is still worth living. Despite her efforts, Will remains resolute in his decision to pursue assisted suicide at the end of six months. As their friendship deepens into a profound love, Louisa grapples with the moral dilemma of respecting Will’s choice while desperately wanting him to choose life.
The novel delves into themes of love, sacrifice, and the value of life. It poignantly explores the complexities of human emotions and challenges societal perceptions about disability. ‘Me Before You’ is a gripping tale that takes readers on an emotional journey, provoking introspection about what it truly means to live and love.
Total Pages– 369 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.26
Amazon Rating– 4.6
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 12 hours and 18 minutes to finish Me Before You by Jojo Moyes.
Call Me by Your Name (2007)
by Andre Aciman
A captivating coming-of-age novel set in 1980s Italy, the novel revolves around the 17-year-old Elio Perlman, who spends his summers at his family’s villa. When a handsome 24-year-old graduate student named Oliver comes to stay with them, Elio finds himself inexplicably drawn to him.
As the days pass, Elio and Oliver form a deep and intense connection that transcends friendship. They share stolen glances and secret gestures, but their feelings remain unspoken until one fateful night when their passion ignites, and they embark on a passionate and life-changing love affair.
Amidst the idyllic backdrop of the Italian countryside, the novel delves into themes of self-discovery, desire, and the complexities of first love. Aciman’s lyrical prose beautifully captures the intricacies of emotions, longing, and the bittersweetness of fleeting summer romance. ‘Call Me by Your Name’ is a poignant exploration of the awakening of desire and the profound impact that a transformative love can have on the human heart.
Total Pages– 248 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.11
Amazon Rating– 4.6
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 8 hours and 16 minutes to finish Call Me By Your Name by André Aciman.
One Day (2009)
by David Nicholls
‘One Day’ by David Nicholls follows the lives of Emma Morley and Dexter Mayhew, who meet on the night of their graduation in 1988. The story revisits their lives on the same date, July 15th, over the course of twenty years, revealing the complexities of their evolving friendship.
As the years pass, Emma and Dexter experience the highs and lows of life—struggling with their careers, relationships, and personal aspirations. Emma dreams of becoming a writer but finds herself in unfulfilling jobs, while Dexter’s initial success as a television presenter leads to a downward spiral of self-destruction.
Throughout their journeys, their bond fluctuates between deep friendship and unexplored romantic feelings. They remain intertwined, despite going their separate ways and being entangled in various relationships with other people.
The novel explores themes of love, friendship, and the passage of time, delving into the joys and heartbreaks that come with growing up and finding one’s place in the world. ‘One Day’ captures the essence of life’s unpredictable nature and the lasting impact of connections made along the way.
Total Pages– 435 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 3.81
Amazon Rating– 4.1
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 14 hours and 30 minutes to finish One Day by David Nicholls.
Normal People (2018)
by Sally Rooney
‘Normal People’ follows the intricate and tumultuous relationship between two Irish teenagers, Marianne Sheridan and Connell Waldron. Set in a small town, the novel spans their final year of high school and their university years in Dublin.
Despite their social differences, Marianne and Connell share a deep connection and intense emotional bond. Connell is popular and well-liked, while Marianne is seen as an outsider from a wealthy but troubled family. They keep their relationship secret at school, and their paths diverge when they attend Trinity College. In college, their roles reverse, with Marianne thriving socially and academically while Connell struggles to fit in.
Throughout the novel, the pair grapples with their feelings for each other and the difficulties of communication. They navigate a series of misunderstandings, personal challenges, and external influences that continually push them apart and bring them back together.
Total Pages– 273 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 3.81
Amazon Rating– 4.1
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 9 hours and 6 minutes to finish Normal People by Sally Rooney.
The Time Traveler’s Wife (2003)
by Audrey Niffenegger
Are you a science buff but also like romance? I have just the book for you.
‘The Time Traveler’s Wife’ by Audrey Niffenegger is a captivating love story that transcends time itself. The novel revolves around the extraordinary relationship between Henry DeTamble and Clare Abshire. Henry, afflicted with a genetic disorder that causes him to involuntarily time travel, finds himself uncontrollably leaping backward and forward through various points in his own life. Clare, his wife, meets him for the first time when she is a child and he is a grown man, and their unique bond is formed.
The narrative weaves through Henry and Clare’s lives, alternating between their perspectives as they navigate the challenges of Henry’s sporadic disappearances and appearances. They struggle to build a life together, continually confronting the complexities and consequences of his time-traveling condition. The novel beautifully portrays their love, perseverance, and determination to overcome the obstacles presented by Henry’s unpredictable journeys through time.
As they confront the paradoxes of their relationship, ‘The Time Traveler’s Wife’ explores themes of fate, free will, and the profound impact of love across time. The story is an emotionally charged and thought-provoking journey that immerses readers in the enduring power of love and the resilience of the human spirit.
I’m sure you know by now and need no reminder, but to be on the safer side- KEEP TISSUES, PLEASE!
P.S. I Love You (2003)
by Cecilia Ahern
This book by Cecelia Ahern follows the life of Holly Kennedy, a young woman devastated by the sudden death of her husband, Gerry. Struggling to cope with her grief and find a purpose in life, Holly becomes increasingly isolated from her friends and family.
However, on her 30th birthday, she receives a mysterious package containing a series of letters written by Gerry before his death. In each letter, he encourages Holly to face her grief, rediscover herself, and embrace life again. Each letter comes with the closing, “P.S. I Love You.”
As Holly follows the letters’ instructions, she embarks on a journey of healing and self-discovery. Along the way, she reconnects with old friends, takes up new hobbies, and even travels. Through these experiences and the enduring love expressed in Gerry’s letters, Holly gradually learns to move forward without forgetting the memories of her husband.
It explores the power of love, healing, and the importance of cherishing the past while embracing the future. It highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the support we can find in unexpected places, and will leave you crying like a baby, just like, I’m sure, ‘The Notebook’ did.
Total Pages– 537 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 3.99
Amazon Rating– 4.4
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 17 hours and 54 minutes to finish The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger.
The Idea of You (2017)
by Robinne Lee
‘The Idea of You’ is a captivating contemporary romance novel that delves into the complexities of love, age, and societal expectations. The story revolves around Solène Marchand, a 39-year-old divorced art gallery owner, and Hayes Campbell, the lead singer of the boy band August Moon, who is 20 years her junior.
When Solène reluctantly takes her preteen daughter to an August Moon concert, she finds herself unexpectedly drawn to the charismatic and talented Hayes. Their attraction quickly blossoms into an intense and passionate relationship, despite the considerable age gap and the public scrutiny that comes with Hayes’ celebrity status.
As their secret romance flourishes, Solène must navigate the challenges of dating a much younger man, facing societal judgments and her own insecurities. The novel delves into the complexities of love, examining the boundaries of age and the societal pressures that often limit unconventional relationships.
‘The Idea of You’ is a rollercoaster of emotions, exploring desire, heartbreak, and the power of connection. It is a thought-provoking tale of forbidden love that challenges stereotypes and asks readers to question societal norms when it comes to matters of the heart.
Total Pages– 372 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 3.94
Amazon Rating– 4.3
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 12 hours and 24 minutes to finish The Idea of You by Robinne Lee.
In Five Years (2020)
by Rebecca Serle
‘In Five Years’ is a complete sob-fest, but so are the other books in this list.
A heartwarming and emotionally charged contemporary romance novel, ‘In Five Years’ revolves around Dannie Kohan, a highly organized and ambitious lawyer in New York City, who has her life meticulously planned out. After an enchanting evening and an unexpected proposal from her boyfriend, she goes to sleep, only to wake up five years later in a different apartment beside a different man.
Confused and disoriented, Dannie quickly realizes that she is now in a different version of her future, one that is both puzzling and unsettling. Though she soon returns to her present reality, the experience leaves her haunted by the memory of the man she encountered five years ahead.
As Dannie’s life continues on its planned trajectory, she becomes consumed by thoughts of the mysterious man and the significance of that vision. The novel follows Dannie’s journey as she navigates the complexities of love, friendship, and self-discovery, questioning her deepest desires and what truly matters in life.
Total Pages– 272 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 3.79
Amazon Rating– 4.3
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 9 hours and 4 minutes to finish In Five Years by Rebecca Serle.
A Walk to Remember (1999)
by Nicholas Sparks
It is only fair to end this list with another book the author of ‘The Notebook’ himself. There is no better man than Sparks that can make you feel the way ‘The Notebook’ did.
A poignant coming-of-age novel set in the small town of Beaufort, North Carolina, ‘A Walk to Remember’ is the story of Landon Carter, a popular and rebellious high school senior, and Jamie Sullivan, the quiet and kind minister’s daughter.
When Landon is forced to participate in the school play after a prank gone wrong, he seeks Jamie’s help in learning his lines. As they spend time together, a deep connection forms between them, and Landon discovers the beauty of Jamie’s soul and her unwavering faith.
Despite their differences, Landon and Jamie fall in love, and their relationship transforms both of them. As Jamie’s secret battle with leukaemia becomes apparent, Landon stands by her side, providing love, support, and understanding during her difficult journey.
Their love story is one of hope, sacrifice, and the power of true love to change lives. Landon learns the importance of faith, compassion, and cherishing the precious moments in life. In the face of tragedy, he finds redemption, and Jamie’s impact on his life becomes a timeless reminder of the enduring power of love and the resilience of the human spirit.
The best part- ‘A Walk to Remember’ is also made into a movie!
Total Pages– 215 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.19
Amazon Rating– 4.6
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 7 hours and 10 minutes to finish A Walk to Remember by Nicholas Sparks.
Conclusion to Books like The Notebook
And that concludes the list for books like The Notebook!
Whether you enjoy romance, drama, or touching tales of love, this list of books like the notebook offers a delightful selection of reads to keep your heart full and your imagination soaring. So, dive into these wonderful stories and let them sweep you away on unforgettable literary journeys. Oh and, remember to keep a box of tissues handy. Trust me, you’ll need them. Happy reading!
However, if you want more books like The Notebook beyond the list above, you should consider-
- The Southern Vampire Mysteries by Charlaine Harris
- Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Café by Fannie Flagg
- Hide by Matthew Griffin
- Carnal Innocence by Nora Roberts
- The Ladies Room by Carolyn Brown
- Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
- One Day by David Nichols
- Marriage Plot by Jeffery Eugenides
- Sputnik Sweetheart by Haruki Murakami
- Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami
- Atonement by Ian McEwan
- Brooklyn by Colm Toibin
- Gods of Jade and Shadow by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
- Tess of the d’Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy
- The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo
- The Sight Of You by Holly Miller
- The Bastard’s Pearl by Connie Bailey
- The Idea of You by Robinne Lee
- Forbidden by Tabitha Suzuma
- In Five Years by Rebecca Serle
- A Knight in Shining Armor by Jude Devereaux
- Suzanne’s Diary for Nicholas by James Patterson