Lynn Painter’s books in order : Her Romantic Comedies

If you’re a fan of heartwarming romances or witty young adult novels, Lynn Painter’s books are a must-read. Known for her swoon-worthy stories and laugh-out-loud dialogue, she’s captured the hearts of readers with titles like Better Than the Movies and Mr. Wrong Number. Whether you’re new to her work or a longtime fan, this guide to Lynn Painter books in order will help you navigate her delightful catalog. From YA romances to adult rom-coms, we’ve got the complete list, brief summaries, and tips to enhance your reading experience.

Who Is Lynn Painter?

Lynn Painter is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author based in Omaha, Nebraska. With a knack for crafting romantic comedies that blend humor, heart, and relatable characters, she writes for both young adult and adult audiences. Her novels often feature witty banter, enemies-to-lovers tropes, and themes of love and self-discovery, making her a favorite among fans of authors like Jenny Han and Sarah Dessen. A regular contributor to the Omaha World-Herald’s parenting section, Painter lives with her husband and children, fueled by energy drinks and a love for rom-coms.

Complete List of Lynn Painter Books in Order

Below is the definitive list of Lynn Painter books in order by publication date, including brief descriptions, genres, and series details. This list is designed to help you dive into her stories chronologically and catch every Easter egg in her interconnected worlds.

1. Better Than the Movies (2021)
   • Description: Liz Buxbaum, a hopeless romantic obsessed with rom-coms, schemes to win over her longtime crush, Michael, with the help of her annoying neighbor, Wes. This enemies-to-lovers tale is packed with nostalgic movie references and heartwarming moments.
   • Genre: YA Romance
   • Series: Better Than the Movies #1
   • Note: A New York Times bestseller, perfect for fans of classic rom-coms.
2. Mr. Wrong Number (2022)
   • Description: Olivia Marshall’s life is a mess after she accidentally burns down her apartment. A steamy text from a random number sparks an anonymous flirtation, but the mystery guy might be closer than she thinks.
   • Genre: Contemporary Romance
   • Series: Mr. Wrong Number #1
   • Note: A hilarious adult rom-com with a brother’s-best-friend twist.
3. The Do-Over (2022)
   • Description: Emilie Hornby is stuck reliving the worst Valentine’s Day ever, complete with a cheating boyfriend and a crumbling life. As she navigates a time loop, she finds unexpected love and learns to embrace herself.
   • Genre: YA Romance
   • Standalone
   • Note: Features a unique time-loop premise and strong character growth.
4. Accidentally Amy (2022)
   • Description: Izzy Shay’s impulsive decision to claim a latte meant for “Amy” leads to a meet-cute with a handsome stranger. But pretending to be Amy complicates her new job and budding romance.
   • Genre: Contemporary Romance
   • Standalone
   • Note: A lighthearted adult rom-com with a grumpy/sunshine dynamic.
5. The Love Wager (2023)
   • Description: After a disastrous one-night stand, Hallie Piper and Jack make a bet to find love first. Their fake-dating pact and shared tacos lead to unexpected feelings in this charming rom-com.
   • Genre: Contemporary Romance
   • Series: Mr. Wrong Number #2
   • Note: A fun follow-up with forced proximity and witty banter.
6. Betting on You (2023)
   • Description: Bailey and Charlie, opposites who met on a tense flight, reconnect as coworkers at a waterpark. A playful bet brings them closer, but secrets threaten their budding romance.
   • Genre: YA Romance
   • Series: Better Than the Movies #0.5 (prequel, but published later)
   • Note: Features a rivals-to-lovers vibe and summer romance vibes.
7. Happily Never After (2024)
   • Description: Sophie Steinbeck hires professional “objectors” to stop her wedding after discovering her fiancé’s infidelity. Sparks fly between the objectors, leading to a flirty, trope-filled romance.
   • Genre: Contemporary Romance
   • Standalone
   • Note: Known for its witty dialogue and lighthearted vibe.
8. Three Things About Emmy Crawford (2024)
   • Description: Emmy Crawford navigates chronic illness and academic rivalry in this heartfelt YA novel. Her journey blends humor, romance, and emotional depth.
   • Genre: YA Romance
   • Standalone
   • Note: Praised for its relatable characters and swoony moments.
9. Nothing Like the Movies (2024)
   • Description: In this sequel to Better Than the Movies, Wes and Liz face college life and heartbreak. Wes schemes to win Liz back, but her new friend complicates his plans.
   • Genre: YA Romance
   • Series: Better Than the Movies #2
   • Note: A highly anticipated follow-up with nostalgic charm.
10. The Wish Switch (2025)
    • Description: Emma Rockford, a middle-schooler, discovers magic to navigate the chaos of growing up. This whimsical tale blends humor and heart for younger readers.
    • Genre: Children’s Fiction
    • Standalone
    • Note: Painter’s first middle-grade novel, released May 13, 2025.
11. Maid for Each Other (2025)
    • Description: Abi Mariano, a professional cleaner, finds herself falling for a millionaire client. This sparkling rom-com explores class differences and unexpected love.
    • Genre: Contemporary Romance
    • Standalone
    • Note: Released in 2025, perfect for fans of adult rom-coms.
12. Fake Skating (2025)
    • Description: Childhood sweethearts reunite in their hockey-obsessed hometown, faking a romance that unexpectedly thaws old feelings. A banter-filled, trope-heavy rom-com.
    • Genre: Contemporary Romance
    • Standalone
    • Note: Set for release in October 2025, available for pre-order.

Series Reading Order

• Better Than the Movies Series: Read Better Than Before (prequel, #0.5), then Better Than the Movies (#1), Better Than the Prom (novella, #1.5, available on Painter’s website), and Nothing Like the Movies (#2).
• Mr. Wrong Number Series: Start with Mr. Wrong Number (#1), followed by The Love Wager (#2).

For a scannable overview, here’s a table of Lynn Painter’s book list:

Why Read Lynn Painter’s Books in Order?

Reading Lynn Painter’s novels chronologically enhances your experience, especially for her series. The Better Than the Movies series, for example, follows Liz and Wes’s evolving relationship, with Better Than Before providing backstory and Nothing Like the Movies continuing their arc. The Mr. Wrong Number series builds on interconnected characters and witty dynamics. Starting with her debut, Better Than the Movies, lets you appreciate her growth as a writer and catch subtle references across her works. Whether you’re new to her books or revisiting favorites, this order ensures you don’t miss any romantic sparks or clever Easter eggs.

What to Expect from Lynn Painter’s Books

Lynn Painter’s signature style is a blend of witty dialogue, swoon-worthy romance, and relatable characters. Her stories often feature tropes like enemies-to-lovers, fake dating, and forced proximity, wrapped in a feel-good package. Expect themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery, with a heavy dose of humor and heart. Fans of Jenny Han, Sarah Dessen, or Kasie West will love Lynn Painter’s young adult books for their nostalgic charm and emotional depth. Her adult romances, like Happily Never After, offer flirty banter and modern love stories that keep you hooked.

Upcoming Releases and Future Projects

As of July 2025, Lynn Painter has released The Wish Switch, Maid for Each Other, and Fake Skating in 2025, with Fake Skating being her latest, set for October release. No additional Lynn Painter new releases are confirmed, but fans can stay updated by following her on Instagram (@LynnPainterBooks), X (@LAPainter), or her official website, LynnPainter.com. Subscribe to her newsletter for the latest on her books and rom-com musings.

Conclusion and CTA

Lynn Painter’s books are a treasure trove of romance, humor, and heart, perfect for anyone craving a feel-good read. Whether you start with Better Than the Movies or dive into her latest, Fake Skating, you’re in for a treat. Have you read any of Lynn Painter’s romance books? Share your favorite in the comments or tell us which one you’re adding to your TBR! For more bookish goodness, check out our Jilly Cooper Books in Order . Happy reading!

FAQ

What is Lynn Painter’s most popular book?
Better Than the Movies is her most popular, with a 4.27 average rating on Goodreads and widespread praise.

Are Lynn Painter’s books part of a series?
Yes, she has the Better Than the Movies series (4 books, including a prequel and novella) and the Mr. Wrong Number series (2 books). Others are standalones.