Where to Start Reading Becky Monson's Books
If you are new to Becky Monson's clean, sweet romantic comedies, you have two excellent entry points depending on your preference for series or standalone books:
- The Classic Series Start: Begin with Thirty-Two Going on Spinster. As Monson's debut novel, this book launches her beloved Spinster Series and introduces her signature blend of self-deprecating humor, everyday chaos, and sweet romance.
- The Standalone Start: Begin with The Accidental Text. This highly rated novel is a great demonstration of Monson's growth as an author, successfully balancing a slow-burn romance and genuine comedy with a touching exploration of grief and healing.
The Spinster Series Reading Order
This is Becky Monson's flagship trilogy. It follows the life, career, and romantic misadventures of Julia Dorning, a self-proclaimed spinster whose tidy, predictable life is upended by a handsome new coworker. Because the series follows a continuous character arc and a chronological timeline, you should read these books in order:
- Thirty-Two Going on Spinster (2012) – Julia Dorning is comfortable hiding in her shell, but a new coworker forces her to step outside her comfort zone.
- Thirty-Three Going on Girlfriend (2014) – Julia navigates the unfamiliar territory of being in a real relationship, along with the accompanying insecurities.
- Thirty-Four Going on Bride (2016) – Julia deals with the chaotic and stressful path to the altar.
The "Just A" Series Reading Order
The Just A series consists of two interconnected companion novels. Each book focuses on a different best friend finding love under highly unusual circumstances. While both books can technically function as standalones, you will get the most enjoyment by reading them in publication order, as characters from the first book play supporting roles in the second:
- Just a Name (2018) – Holly Murphy's wedding plans fall apart, leading her best friend Quinn to suggest a wild idea: find a random stranger with the same name as her ex-fiancé to go on the pre-planned honeymoon trip.
- Just a Girl (2020) – Quinn Pearson finds her career in jeopardy after an embarrassing viral video, only to fall for a charming British man who turns out to be her new boss.
Becky Monson's Standalone Novels
Monson has penned several successful standalone contemporary romance novels. These books are completely self-contained stories and can be read in any order you choose. They are perfect for readers looking for quick, satisfying rom-com fixes:
- Speak Now: or Forever Hold Your Peace (2015) – A fun romp about dealing with wedding chaos and unexpected attraction.
- The Accidental Text (2021) – Maggie Cooper sends a text to her late mother's old phone number as a way to process her grief, only to receive a life-changing reply from a stranger named Chase.
- How to Ruin the Holidays (2021) – A cozy, festive holiday romance.
- Pumpkin Spice and Not So Nice (2022) – A seasonal fall romance centered around cozy vibes and miscommunications.
- Love Songs Suck (2023) – A sweet romance with musical themes.
- The Wedding Jinx (2023) – A fun look at bad luck, wedding setups, and sparks flying.
- Not Boyfriend Material (2024) – A modern romantic comedy about fighting expectations.
Shared-World Multi-Author Series
Monson has contributed to shared-world romance projects with other popular chick-lit and clean romance authors. When navigating these lists, it is helpful to know which books Monson actually wrote:
Return to Christmas Falls
This holiday-themed, multi-author series features standalone clean romances set in the fictional town of Christmas Falls. While the local database associates multiple entries with Monson, she is the sole author of only one book in this set:
- Honeymoon for One (2017) – Written by Jennifer Peel.
- Once Again at the Falls (2017) – Written by Becky Monson. This book follows London Walsh returning to her hometown for the holidays.
- Love Notes in Reindeer Falls (2017) – Written by Beth Labonte.
Falling for Summer
Released in 2024, this project features seven interconnected standalone romantic comedies, each written by a different author. They share a timeline and beachside setting but can be read in any order. Monson wrote the sixth book in the collection:
- One Happy Summer (2024) – Written by Becky Monson. It features a woman hiding from a career disaster on a Florida island, where she meets a charming shopkeeper.
Novellas and Short Stories
For a quick bite of Becky Monson's writing, she has published two shorter works:
- Taking a Chance (2016) – A sweet novella companion.
- The Love Potion (2021) – A fun short story focusing on magic and modern romance.
Becky Monson Complete Publication Order
If you prefer to watch Monson's writing style evolve from her debut onwards, read her bibliography in the order of its release:
- Thirty-Two Going on Spinster (2012)
- Thirty-Three Going on Girlfriend (2014)
- Speak Now: or Forever Hold Your Peace (2015)
- Thirty-Four Going on Bride (2016)
- Taking a Chance (2016)
- Once Again at the Falls (2017)
- Just a Name (2018)
- Just a Girl (2020)
- The Accidental Text (2021)
- The Love Potion (2021)
- How to Ruin the Holidays (2021)
- Pumpkin Spice and Not So Nice (2022)
- Love Songs Suck (2023)
- The Wedding Jinx (2023)
- Not Boyfriend Material (2024)
- One Happy Summer (2024)