100 Books Like Once in a Lifetime

In Maybe in Another Life, I was moved by how two distinct journeys stemming from one somewhat insignificant life choice can lead to a pre-destined outcome and fated love.

This book really leans into how the Universe may have bigger plans for us, regardless of how we choose to get there, which challenged my notion of the “one path-one destination” outlook when it comes to fate. I was left intrigued and inspired by the role of free will, but affirmed that destiny is destiny, after all.

This spoke to my need for certainty in love.

So much so, that like Natasha, I wanted to seek out an astrologer to discover my elusive soulmate’s birth date and place so I could begin the search for true love.

During so many moments in the story, I could feel the wavering sense of desperation and hope as Natasha combed through every possible prospect for love, even the ones who were not a fit! I cheered her on, hoping not only would she meet her soulmate but that her strategy for doing so would work, providing us all a blueprint for finding “the one.”

Miranda’s professional setback in Miranda in Retrograde summoned a spark in me – what would I do if I had a year off from my current life to do or be anything? 

As a type-A overthinker and overpreparer, like her, I loved the idea of abandoning my rational self to instead follow my horoscope. But, in reality, would I do it? Perhaps – as long as I embarked on the journey like she did, basing spontaneity off of a clearly methodical approach, relentlessly following astrological predictions each day, without fail.

In the end, though, I resonated with her realization that happiness and love might be in plain sight, less any astrological prophecy, if we just let go of the avid hunt to find it.

This was a breath of fresh air for me, affirming how messy, raw, and sometimes completely chaotic the quest to heal and move on after heartbreak can be, particularly given that I read it after a difficult breakup.

As I tagged along with Gabrielle through her travels, witnessing her make one questionable decision after the next, all in an effort to stop hurting and find love and happiness, I saw how forging through “the mess” is simply part of the healing process.

Her book inspired me to take chances, even if they backfire, put myself out there, and embrace the idea that the journey to heal and find love can be far more important than any destination.

While this story isn’t about actually finding that fated love, it’s about her own destiny to embark on a journey of self-love, which, to me, is the best love you can find.

This one will break your heart. It’s more of a romantic tragedy, but I think there’s something wonderful in near-miss romances because it helps you appreciate what you have, when you have it.

In a monochrome world, you can only see color once you’ve met your soulmate. The problem is that the main character, Brighton Evans, has been able to see color since forever—so who on earth is her soulmate and how will she ever be able to tell? We’d Know by Then is without a doubt a tearjerker, so prepare yourselves!

In my eyes, Claire Kingsley can do no wrong. Her small-town romances are epic. They include all the fun details that I love about small towns – nosy neighbors, family drama, small-town quirks (like dueling families and a pack of squirrels that are up to no good) – all while delivering some of the hottest scenes you can read. This series does need to be read in order, but you will not regret it! Each of the Bailey Brothers are so swoony and I promise it will be nearly impossible to pick your favorite! 

This is book one in a trilogy of heartbreak and redemption. The tears I cried for the couple as they fought life and each other were real. They were brought to their knees forced to face the consequences of their actions and forced to recognize their love for each other was never going to be easy. From the first chapter, I was driven into a universe that made me feel real pain and heartbreak, but more than that, real love.  Love that was unconditional and unfathomable. It takes a lot to get there, but their HEA was well worth the struggle.

Pippa has everyone else's dream husband. Not only is Gabe gorgeous and a loving father to their two daughters, but he's also a bona fide hero—they live in a house on the edge of a cliff, and Gabe has talked several would-be jumpers out of committing suicide. But one day, a woman falls to her death. Pippa doesn't see the event, but she does see Gabe a split-second later, arms outstretched—did he reach out to save the woman, or did he push her off the edge?

It's a great set-up, and the author refuses to rest on it. The story takes one bold leap after another (if you'll pardon the expression) but never leaves the reader behind. When I realized that half the chapters would be narrated by the dead woman, speaking from beyond the grave, I should have been disbelieving, but instead, I was even more intrigued.

I love Carian Cole’s books. She writes the most beautifully emotional rock star romances, and the final book in her Ashes and Embers series is an unapologetic tear-jerker. This book asks the question: if two soulmates meet and fall in love, and then tragedy fundamentally changes one of them, are they still soul mates? The answer Carian Cole provides is a breathtakingly romantic story that will make you believe in true love that lasts forever. The fact that Asher is a sexy rockstar who could make anyone swoon is absolutely the icing on the cake.

A dream-activated time travel story. Now that's one I couldn't resist and fortunately, I didn't.

The reader follows the character, Quinn, on a journey as her dreams bring a man that stirs her like no other. Problem? Nick enters her real world, too. They have a history. Complications? Oh, he's dreaming about her, too.

Can they figure out a way to stay connected and understand what's happening? Let’s hope.

Warning: it's a series, but after reading the first book, you'll be glad there's more from this talented author.