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series Reading Order

Not Quite Books in Order

6 Books
2012 – 2018 Published
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Reading order

The Recommended Reading Order for the Not Quite Series

For the best reading experience, we highly recommend reading the Not Quite series in its publication order. While each book is written as a standalone contemporary romance with its own central couple, the characters are closely interconnected. As the series progresses, major characters from previous books frequently make guest appearances, and their overarching relationships evolve in the background. Following the publication timeline ensures you capture every inside joke, family update, and subtle crossover without spoilers.

Here is the recommended reading path for the series:

  1. Not Quite Dating (2012) – The series opener introduces single mother Jessica “Jessie” Mann and the wealthy hotel heir Jack Morrison, who hides his true identity to win her trust.
  2. Not Quite Mine (2013) – Focuses on Jack's sister, hotel heiress Katelyn Morrison, who must team up with her former flame Dean Prescott after a baby is mysteriously left on her doorstep.
  3. Not Quite Enough (2013) – Follows online boutique owner Monica Mann (Jessie's sister) and border patrol agent Trent Fairchild in a high-stakes romance set near the Texas-Mexico border.
  4. Not Quite Forever (2014) – Features romance author Dakota Laurens (Katelyn's best friend) and ER physician Dr. Walt Eddy as they navigate skepticism and sudden attraction.
  5. Not Quite Perfect (2016) – Stars therapist Mary Kildare and Glen Ridge, who must overcome personal barriers and external drama to find lasting trust.
  6. Not Quite Crazy (2018) – The final book follows Rachel Price and Trent's brother, CEO Jason Fairchild, as a chaotic winter storm brings their contrasting worlds together.

Is There a Chronological Order Difference?

No, the chronological order of the Not Quite series matches the publication order exactly. The events of each book flow sequentially into the next. For instance, the blossoming relationships and life changes established in Not Quite Dating directly set the stage for Katelyn's journey in Not Quite Mine. Skipping around will not ruin the individual romance plots, but it will disrupt the chronological progression of the friendship groups and family dynamics.

What to Know Before You Start

Catherine Bybee's contemporary romance world is celebrated for its balance of emotional depth, witty dialogue, and steamy chemistry. Here are a few essential tips before you dive in:

  • Standalones with Benefits: You can read any of these books out of order without getting lost. Each novel resolves its main romantic conflict completely. However, reading them in sequence rewards you with a heartwarming sense of found family.
  • Ties to Other Bybee Universes: While the Not Quite series operates independently, fans of Catherine Bybee know she loves linking her contemporary romance worlds. Crossover themes, security details, and matching services echo elements found in her popular Weekday Brides and First Wives series, though you do not need to read those to fully enjoy this collection.
  • A Blend of Tropes: The series masterfully plays with classic romance tropes, including hidden billionaires, accidental parenting, sister's best friend dynamics, and forced proximity during winter storms.

Frequently Asked

QCan the Not Quite books be read as standalones?

Yes. Each book in the series features a complete, self-contained romance with a satisfying resolution, meaning you can enjoy them individually. However, reading them in order is recommended to fully appreciate the recurring characters and evolving friendships.

QWho is the author of the Not Quite series?

The series is written by Catherine Bybee, a former nurse who transitioned into a New York Times and USA Today bestselling contemporary romance author.

QAre there any spin-offs or co-authored books in the series?

No, all six books in the main Not Quite series were written solely by Catherine Bybee. While they share the lighthearted tone and contemporary setting of her other series like the Weekday Brides, there are no direct spin-off series or co-authored installments.

QWhich book should I start with?

You should start with the first book, Not Quite Dating (2012), which introduces the Morrison and Mann families who form the emotional core of the early novels.

QHas the series won any awards?

Yes, several books in the series have received recognition, including RONE Awards for Not Quite Dating (2012) and Not Quite Enough (2013).