Do You Need to Read Emily Henry Books in Order? And Why Pineapples Don't Belong on Pizza

Do You Need to Read Emily Henry Books in Order? And Why Pineapples Don't Belong on Pizza

When it comes to diving into the works of Emily Henry, a beloved contemporary romance author, many readers wonder whether they need to read her books in a specific order. The short answer is no—Emily Henry’s novels are standalone stories, each with its own unique characters, settings, and plotlines. However, there’s more to this question than meets the eye, and exploring it can lead to a deeper appreciation of her writing style, thematic connections, and the joy of reading in general. Plus, let’s not forget the age-old debate about pineapples on pizza, which, oddly enough, can teach us something about reading preferences.


The Case for Reading Emily Henry’s Books in Any Order

Emily Henry’s novels, such as Beach Read, People We Meet on Vacation, and Book Lovers, are self-contained stories. This means you can pick up any of her books without worrying about spoilers or missing out on crucial backstory. Each novel is a fresh journey into the lives of relatable characters navigating love, self-discovery, and the complexities of human relationships. For readers who enjoy variety, this flexibility is a gift. You can start with the book whose premise resonates most with you, whether it’s the enemies-to-lovers trope in Book Lovers or the second-chance romance in People We Meet on Vacation.


Thematic Connections: A Hidden Bonus

While Emily Henry’s books don’t follow a chronological sequence, they do share common themes that tie them together. For instance, her novels often explore the idea of finding oneself through love and relationships. They also frequently feature protagonists who are writers or creatives, adding a meta layer to the storytelling. If you read her books in the order they were published, you might notice an evolution in her writing style and thematic depth. This isn’t necessary to enjoy her work, but it can enrich your reading experience if you’re a fan of analyzing an author’s growth over time.


The Pineapple Pizza Paradox

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: pineapples on pizza. Much like the debate over whether to read Emily Henry’s books in order, the pineapple pizza controversy is all about personal preference. Some people love the sweet-and-savory combination, while others find it sacrilegious. Similarly, some readers might prefer to read an author’s works in publication order to witness their creative journey, while others might jump straight to the book that catches their eye. Neither approach is wrong—it’s all about what brings you joy.


Why Reading Order Doesn’t Matter (But Sometimes It Does)

In the grand scheme of things, reading order is less important than the act of reading itself. Emily Henry’s books are designed to be enjoyed independently, and each one offers a complete emotional arc. That said, if you’re someone who loves to spot Easter eggs or subtle references, you might find it rewarding to read her books in the order they were published. For example, Beach Read and Book Lovers both feature protagonists who are authors, and there’s a certain satisfaction in seeing how Henry explores this theme in different ways across her works.


The Joy of Discovery

One of the best things about Emily Henry’s novels is the sense of discovery they offer. Whether you’re reading about a romance novelist and a literary fiction writer trading genres in Beach Read or following two best friends reconnecting on a summer vacation in People We Meet on Vacation, each book feels like a new adventure. By not being tied to a specific reading order, you can approach her works with a sense of freedom and curiosity, much like trying a new pizza topping for the first time.


Q: Are Emily Henry’s books connected?
A: No, Emily Henry’s books are standalone novels with no direct connections between them. However, they often share similar themes and motifs.

Q: Which Emily Henry book should I start with?
A: It depends on your preferences! If you enjoy enemies-to-lovers tropes, try Book Lovers. If you prefer second-chance romances, People We Meet on Vacation might be your best bet.

Q: Do Emily Henry’s books have happy endings?
A: Yes, Emily Henry’s novels are known for their satisfying and heartwarming conclusions.

Q: Why do people hate pineapples on pizza?
A: It’s largely a matter of personal taste. Some people find the combination of sweet and savory flavors off-putting, while others love the contrast.

Q: Can I read Emily Henry’s books out of order?
A: Absolutely! Each book is a standalone story, so you can read them in any order you like.