Chrissie Manby Books in Order

Where to Start with Chrissie Manby

Chrissie Manby has written over forty books, ranging from laugh-out-loud standalone chick-lit novels to interconnected family series. If you are new to her writing, the absolute best place to start is with the Proper Family (or Benson Family) series. Beginning with A Proper Family Holiday, this series showcases her trademark combination of warm family chaos, witty dialogue, and real-world relationship struggles.

If you prefer a quick, standalone introduction to her writing style before committing to a multi-book series, her award-nominated hit Getting Over Mr. Right is highly recommended. It stands as a perfect entry point, highlighting her sharp understanding of modern dating mishaps and post-breakup recovery.

The Proper Family (Benson Family) Reading Order

This is Chrissie Manby’s most popular and cohesive series. It centers on the multi-generational Benson-Edwards family and their chaotic, often hilarious attempts at getting along during holidays and vacations. Because these books follow the same set of characters and their evolving relationship milestones, they should be read in chronological order.

Be aware that several of these books were published under alternate titles in different regions, which can confuse readers. Below is the recommended reading order, including the alternate titles and the festive novellas that expand the family's story:

1. A Proper Family Holiday (2014) - Also published under the title The Family Vacation. This kicks off the series as the family embarks on a Mediterranean cruise.
2. A Proper Family Christmas (2014) - Also published as Christmas With The Family. The story follows the chaotic holiday preparation at home.
3. A Proper Family Adventure (2015) - Also published as All At Sea!: With The Family. The Bensons take to the sea once more for another misadventure.
4. A Wedding at Christmas (2015) - A festive installment centering on wedding preparations and winter celebrations.
5. Falling Leaves and Fireworks (2016) - An autumn-themed e-novella focusing on the Benson-Edwards household during Halloween and Bonfire Night.
6. Top of the Naughty List (2017) - A short festive novella that continues the family's holiday antics.

The Newbay Series Reading Order

Set in the charming fictional seaside town of Newbay, this series focuses on community connections, new beginnings, and local drama. While each book introduces a new set of protagonists and can technically be enjoyed as a standalone, reading them in order allows you to appreciate the recurring local setting and minor character cameos.

1. A Fairy Tale for Christmas (2016) - The story introduces the Newbay Theatre Society as they rehearse for a festive production of Cinderella.
2. The Worst Case Scenario Cookery Club (2017) - Follows a group of mismatched characters who bond over a local beginner's cooking class.
3. Once in a Lifetime (2018) - Centered around three generations of women in the town navigating fresh starts in love and life.

The Lizzie Jordan Duology

One of Chrissie Manby's earliest character-driven series follows the disaster-prone but lovable protagonist Lizzie Jordan. These two books should be read in order to follow Lizzie's personal and professional growth:

1. Lizzie Jordan's Secret Life (2000) - Readers are introduced to Lizzie as she spins a web of lies to impress a former flame.
2. Running Away from Richard (2001) - The direct sequel where Lizzie flees the aftermath of a marriage proposal and moves to Venice Beach, California.

Standalone Novels and Other Writings

Chrissie Manby has written a massive selection of standalones that can be read in any order. Notable highlights include her debut novels Flatmates and Second Prize (both 1997), which captured the zeitgeist of late-90s flat-sharing and career struggles. Over the years, she has kept her writing fresh with holiday-themed books like Seven Sunny Days (2003) and Spa Wars (2008).

For aspiring writers, she has also penned a helpful non-fiction guide titled Writing for Love (2012), which outlines her tips and experiences on crafting successful commercial fiction. Additionally, her short stories are compiled in collections such as Seashells and Other Stories (2015), offering quick, heartwarming reads.

What to Know Before You Start

When searching for Chrissie Manby’s books online or in libraries, keep in mind that she has published under several pseudonyms throughout her career, including Olivia Darling, Stella Knightley, Stephanie Ash, and CJ Wray. Her books written as Chrissie Manby are consistently lighthearted, warm, and distinctly British in tone, matching the classic chick-lit era while maintaining a modern, realistic edge regarding family dynamics and friendships.