“Being nice is a good thing. You can be strong and nice. You don’t have to be one or the other.”
If you love heartwarming stories with memorable characters and a touch of romance, you’ve probably heard of Beth O’Leary. Known for her feel-good novels, O’Leary has captured the hearts of readers with her distinctive mix of humour, emotion and relatable characters. Whether you’re just discovering her work or you’re a longtime fan, knowing the best way to read her books can be a little tricky. Thankfully, that’s where we come in! Today at What We Reading, we’re guiding you through all the Beth O’Leary books in order of release, offering you the chance to dive into her stories in the order they were written. From The Flatshare to O’Leary’s latest work, Swept Away, we’ve got you covered. So, grab your favourite blanket, put your post-it notes away and get ready to explore O’Leary’s beautifully crafted worlds, one book at a time.
The Flatshare (2019)
Beth O’Leary’s debut novel, The Flatshare, came in 2019 and immediately signalled to the literary world that a fresh voice had arrived. The Flatshare is a charming and unconventional romance that follows the story of Tiffy and Leon, two strangers who end up sharing a one-bedroom flat in London. Due to their conflicting work schedules – Tiffy works during the day, Leon during the night – they never meet in person. Instead, they communicate through a series of notes left to one another, creating a unique bond.
Tiffy is a quirky, emotional woman still reeling from a tough breakup, whereas Leon is a quiet, introspective man working as a palliative care nurse. As their notes grow from simple messages to heartfelt exchanges, both begin to open up about their struggles, dreams and pasts. Through humour, warmth and moments of deep emotional connection, The Flatshare explores themes of loneliness, healing and finding unexpected love in the most unlikely circumstances.
Check Out The Best Books Like The Flatshare
The Switch (2020)
2020’s The Switch follows two women – Leena, a burnt-out young professional, and her grandmother, Eileen, who is ready for a fresh start. After a personal crisis, Leena takes a sabbatical leave from her job in London and moves to her grandmother’s sleepy village in Yorkshire. At the same time, Eileen, on the hunt for an adventure after a long marriage, swaps places with Leena and moves into her granddaughter’s hype London flat.
As Leena and Eileen navigate each other’s worlds, they both find unexpected challenges and joys. Leena embraces the slower pace of life in the village, while Eileen revels in the freedom and excitement of London. Through funny misadventures and emotional growth, both women find themselves reconnecting with their true wants and identities. With its witty dialogue, charming characters and themes of self-discovery, The Switch is one of the best Beth O’Leary books for exploring second chances, family bonds and the power of a fresh perspective.
The Road Trip (2021)
Exes Dylan and Addie are being forced to take a long road trip together to a wedding in Scotland. After an unexpected breakdown, the couple find themselves car-sharing with two complete strangers, Marcus and his sister, who add some unpredictability to their journey. As they all travel through the beautiful, albeit challenging, landscapes of the UK, Dylan and Addie must confront the unresolved issues from their past, including the reasons behind their breakup and the deep feelings they still have for one another.
Interspersed with flashbacks to their relationship, The Road Trip is a book that explores themes of love, forgiveness and the difficulties that come with trying to move on. As they face awkward, funny and tender moments on the road, Dylan and Addie are forced to confront if they’re truly over each other or if fate has something else in store for them.
The No-Show (2022)
2022’s The No-Show introduces readers to three women – Siobhan, Miranda and Jane – all of whom share a surprising connection to the same man, Joseph Carter. Each woman has a different relationship with him, yet all three of them are left heartbroken after Joseph stands them up on Valentine’s Day, leaving them wondering why they were all abandoned.
As the story unfolds, O’Leary immerses readers in the lives of these three women, exploring their individual struggles, secrets and personal growth. Siobhan is attempting to juggle her career with her complicated love life, Miranda is wrestling with a tough breakup and Jane is dealing with a loss that has defined her entire life. Through alternating perspectives, the novel unveils the mysteries behind Joseph’s actions and how each woman’s journey of self-discovery leads to unexpected turns. With a clever plot and complex characters, The No-Show is a Beth O’Leary book that explores love, betrayal, forgiveness and finding strength in unexpected places.
The Wake Up Call (2023)
It’s the busiest season of the year, and Forest Manor Hotel is falling apart, in every sense of the term. So, when receptionists Izzy and Lucas are given the same shift at the front desk, there’s nothing else to do but put their differences aside and see things through.
They both know that the hotel won’t last beyond the holiday season without some kind of miracle. But, when Izzy returns a guest’s lost wedding ring, the reward convinces management that this may be the way to fix everything. With four rings still sitting in the lost and found, the race is on for Izzy and Lucas to save their beloved hotel, and their jobs in the process. As their bitter rivalry turns into something more complex, they soon start to wonder whether there’s something more at stake than just Forest Manor’s future. Can they make it through the Christmas season with their hearts still in one piece?
Check Out The Best Cosy Winter Reads To Curl Up With
Swept Away (2025)
The latest novel by Beth O’Leary, Swept Away introduces readers to Zeke and Lexi, two strangers who are both keen to escape from their problems, even if it is just for one night. Going back home with a stranger seems like the ideal remedy. But, when a miscommunication in the dark, foggy night means that no one tied the houseboat to the dock, Zeke and Lexi find themselves surrounded by miles and miles of open water the next morning.
With just a few provisions on the idle boat, the pair must figure out how to get back home. But, aside from their survival, they’re facing another challenge. Because when you’re stuck together for days on end, it gives you a lot of time to get to know someone – and to fall in love with them. This epic new love story by O’Leary is the tale of two strangers who find themselves lost at sea and all the crazy situations and touching moments of growth that come with it.
Part-time reader, part-time rambler, and full-time Horror enthusiast, James has been writing for What We Reading since 2022. His earliest reading memories involved Historical Fiction, Fantasy and Horror tales, which he has continued to take with him to this day. James’ favourite books include The Last (Hanna Jameson), The Troop (Nick Cutter) and Chasing The Boogeyman (Richard Chizmar).
