If you’re a fan of contemporary romance and women’s fiction, chances are you’ve come across the delightful works of Mhairi McFarlane. Known for her witty storytelling, relatable characters, and heartfelt themes, McFarlane has become a beloved author in the modern fiction landscape. For new readers or those looking to immerse themselves in her literary universe, understanding the order of her books can enhance the reading experience. In this article, we’ll explore Mhairi McFarlane books in order, provide insights into each novel, and offer recommendations for the best way to enjoy her works.
Why Reading Mhairi McFarlane’s Books in Order Matters
Reading her books in chronological order offers several benefits:
- Understanding Character Development: McFarlane’s characters often evolve across multiple books, especially when she writes series or interconnected stories.
- Appreciating Thematic Progression: Her themes—love, friendship, career, personal growth—develop throughout her writing career, offering richer insights when read sequentially.
- Following Literary Evolution: Seeing how her writing style and storytelling techniques have matured over time can deepen appreciation.
While many of her novels are standalone, reading them in the publication order can help you catch subtle references and thematic links.
Overview of Mhairi McFarlane’s Books in Order
Below is a comprehensive list of her published novels, ordered from her debut to her latest release, along with brief descriptions to help you decide your reading sequence.
1. You Had Me at Hello (2012)
Overview:
McFarlane’s debut novel introduces readers to the charming world of London-based Rachel and Ben. A story about missed opportunities and second chances, it’s a heartfelt exploration of friendship and romantic tension.
Why read first:
It sets the tone for her witty, relatable storytelling style and introduces her signature blend of humor and emotion.
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2. It’s Not Me, It’s You (2013)
Overview:
This novel follows Laura, a woman navigating heartbreak, career setbacks, and self-discovery. Through her humorous and poignant journey, McFarlane examines the complexities of modern relationships.
Themes:
Self-love, friendship, personal growth.
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3. Here’s Looking at You (2014)
Overview:
A story about Emily, a woman who is forced to confront her past when her childhood friend returns to town. It’s a tale of nostalgia, friendship, and finding love where you least expect it.
Why it’s notable:
It’s one of her more emotionally resonant novels, emphasizing the importance of friendship and forgiveness.
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4. Always Never Yours (2015)
Overview:
This novel centers on Darcy, a high school student obsessed with casting her friend in a school play, and her evolving understanding of love and friendship. McFarlane’s take on teenage romance is both humorous and heartfelt.
Target audience:
Young adult and new adult readers.
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5. Don’t You Forget About Me (2016)
Overview:
A compelling story about two best friends, Eddie and Laura, who reconnect after years apart. It explores themes of friendship, regret, and second chances.
Special features:
McFarlane’s nuanced portrayal of friendship dynamics.
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6. The Single Girl’s To-Do List (2017)
Overview:
A humorous and empowering story about Anna, a woman embracing her singlehood and reevaluating her life goals.
Themes:
Independence, self-discovery, career.
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7. The Anti-Heroine’s Handbook (2018)
Overview:
A departure from her romantic novels, this is a collection of humorous essays and reflections on womanhood, societal expectations, and personal authenticity.
Note:
While not a novel, it’s a must-read for fans interested in her wit and perspective.
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8. If I Never Met You (2019)
Overview:
Perhaps her most celebrated novel, this story features Laurie and Jamie, who agree to fake a relationship to secure a work promotion, only to develop real feelings. It’s a modern twist on romantic tropes with sharp humor and emotional depth.
Why it’s popular:
It exemplifies McFarlane’s skill at crafting romantic comedies with emotional complexity.
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9. Before We Were Strangers (2020)
Overview:
A story about two former lovers, Liv and Matt, reconnecting years after a breakup. It explores themes of regret, timing, and the power of second chances.
Tone:
A mix of poignant reflection and romantic hope.
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10. Don’t Stop Me Now (2021)
Overview:
Set in a small town, this novel follows Lucy and her journey of self-rediscovery, friendship, and love. It continues McFarlane’s tradition of combining humor with emotional insight.
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11. The Breakup Song (Upcoming or Recent Releases)
Note:
Check her official website or recent publications for her latest works, as she continues to produce new novels regularly.
Reading Mhairi McFarlane’s Books in Publication Order
For those interested in experiencing her literary evolution, reading her books in the order they were published is recommended. This approach allows readers to see how her themes, style, and storytelling have matured over time.
Publication Order List:
1. You Had Me at Hello (2012)
2. It’s Not Me, It’s You (2013)
3. Here’s Looking at You (2014)
4. Always Never Yours (2015)
5. Don’t You Forget About Me (2016)
6. The Single Girl’s To-Do List (2017)
7. The Anti-Heroine’s Handbook (2018)
8. If I Never Met You (2019)
9. Before We Were Strangers (2020)
10. Don’t Stop Me Now (2021)
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Choosing the Best Reading Order for You
While reading her books sequentially offers a rich experience, some readers prefer to select novels based on themes or mood. Here are some options:
- Start with her most popular: If I Never Met You is widely acclaimed and a great introduction.
- Read chronologically: For understanding her evolution as an author.
- Pick by theme: For example, if you love stories about friendship, start with Here’s Looking at You or Don’t You Forget About Me.
Final Tips for Fans and New Readers
- Check for new releases: Mhairi McFarlane is actively writing, so stay updated on her latest books.
- Explore her essays: The Anti-Heroine’s Handbook offers insight into her humor and perspectives beyond fiction.
- Enjoy the mix: While her standalone novels are perfect entry points, reading her works in order can deepen your appreciation of her narrative journey.
Conclusion
Mhairi McFarlane’s books in order provide a roadmap through her engaging, witty, and emotionally resonant stories. Whether you choose to read her novels in publication order or select specific titles based on your preferences, you’re in for a delightful journey into modern romance and women’s fiction. Her relatable characters, sharp humor, and heartfelt themes make her novels a worthy addition to any reader’s collection.
Happy reading!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recommended reading order for Mhairi McFarlane's books?
The recommended reading order for Mhairi McFarlane's books is to read them chronologically by publication date: 'You Had Me at Hello' (2010), 'It’s Not Me, It’s You' (2011), 'Here’s Looking at You' (2012), 'Always the Last to Know' (2014), 'Love Like the Irish' (2015), 'Who’s That Girl' (2017), 'Don’t You Forget About Me' (2018), and 'Just Last Night' (2020).
Are Mhairi McFarlane's books connected in a series or are they standalone?
Most of Mhairi McFarlane's books are standalone novels, but they often feature themes of love, friendship, and personal growth. There are no direct series, so readers can enjoy each book independently in any order, though reading chronologically can provide insight into her writing development.
Which Mhairi McFarlane book is best to start with for new readers?
A great starting point is 'You Had Me at Hello' as it showcases her witty, heartfelt storytelling and introduces her signature characters and themes, making it accessible for new readers.
Have any of Mhairi McFarlane's books been adapted into films or TV series?
As of October 2023, none of Mhairi McFarlane's books have been officially adapted into films or TV series, but her engaging stories have a strong fan following and are considered prime candidates for future adaptations.
What are common themes across Mhairi McFarlane's books in order?
Her books often explore themes of love, friendship, personal growth, heartbreak, and humor, all woven through relatable characters and contemporary settings, making her novels both entertaining and emotionally resonant.
