10 Books for Fans of Nobody Wants This

It’s a rare and magical thing when a new show arrives and instantly feels like it’s always been here. Netflix’s Nobody Wants This is one of those shows. Exploding onto the scene in late 2025, the series has become a full-blown cultural obsession, a show that has dominated social media feeds, group chats, and the top of the streaming charts. Starring the perfectly cast duo of Kristen Bell and Adam Brody, the series tells the story of an unlikely, chaotic, and utterly captivating romance between Joanne, an outspoken and agnostic podcaster, and Noah, a thoughtful, reserved rabbi. The result is a show that is not just a romantic comedy, but a brilliant, witty, and surprisingly deep exploration of faith, identity, and the beautiful messiness of falling in love with someone from a completely different world.

The show’s runaway success can be attributed to how perfectly it taps into the current cultural zeitgeist. A quick scroll through TikTok and Pinterest reveals a massive and growing appetite for stories that feature smart, dialogue-driven romance and authentic Jewish representation. We are in the golden age of the "Jew-com," a trend celebrating joyful, nuanced stories about Jewish culture, and Nobody Wants This has become its flagship. The show's "opposites attract" dynamic, its sharp banter, and its blend of heartfelt emotion with laugh-out-loud humor have left viewers with a severe "show hangover"—a desperate craving for more stories that capture that same specific magic.

If you’ve finished binging the series and are now staring into the content void, wondering what could possibly fill the Joanne-and-Noah-shaped hole in your heart, this list is for you. We’ve curated ten incredible books that perfectly capture the spirit, wit, and emotional depth of Nobody Wants This. From other hilarious interfaith romances to stories filled with whip-smart banter and complex characters, these books are the perfect next step on your journey.

1. Funny You Should Ask by Elissa Sussman

The Vibe: Public Figure Romance & Whip-Smart Banter

If you were captivated by the dynamic of Joanne, a writer/podcaster, navigating a relationship with Noah, a public figure in his community, then Elissa Sussman’s Funny You Should Ask is your perfect next read. This novel is a brilliant, sharp, and incredibly romantic exploration of celebrity, perception, and second chances. The story unfolds across two timelines. Ten years ago, a struggling young writer named Chani interviewed the world’s biggest movie star, Gabe Parker, for a weekend-long profile piece. The resulting article, and the undeniable chemistry between them, catapulted both of their careers into the stratosphere and sparked a decade of public speculation about what really happened that weekend. Now, in the present day, Gabe has requested Chani for his first interview in years, giving them a chance to finally confront their past.

The connection to Nobody Wants This is immediate. The novel masterfully explores the complexities of a relationship that exists, in part, in the public eye. The dialogue is the star of the show, a masterclass in the kind of witty, rapid-fire banter that made Joanne and Noah’s conversations so electric. Chani is a perfect stand-in for Joanne—a smart, funny, and slightly cynical writer who is not easily impressed. The book delves into themes of authenticity and the difference between a public persona and a private self, all while delivering a swoon-worthy, slow-burn romance. It’s a sophisticated, funny, and deeply satisfying read. The incredible chemistry between the two leads is a quality shared by the best on-screen couples.

Find your copy of Funny You Should Ask on Amazon here.

2. The Ex Talk by Rachel Lynn Solomon

The Vibe: Workplace Rivals & A Relationship for the Public

For a book that perfectly captures the "podcaster protagonist" and "fake relationship for the public" elements of Nobody Wants This, look no further than Rachel Lynn Solomon’s delightful debut, The Ex Talk. The story follows Shay Goldstein, a producer at a Seattle public radio station who has been clashing with her new colleague, the infuriatingly charming and academically-minded Dominic Yun, for years. When their station is desperate for a new hit show, they land on a concept: a show about relationships, hosted by two exes. The only problem? They’ve never dated. Shay and Dominic are forced to co-host "The Ex Talk," pretending to be exes on air, all while their very real, off-air chemistry begins to bubble to the surface.

This book is a must-read for fans of Joanne's career as a public voice. It’s a brilliant exploration of what it means to build a relationship when the public has a vested interest in your story. The banter is top-tier, a perfect example of the enemies-to-lovers trope done right. Like Joanne and Noah, Shay and Dominic are true opposites who challenge and ultimately complete each other. The novel also features wonderful, authentic Jewish representation, with Shay's family traditions playing a warm and integral role in the story. It’s a smart, sexy, and incredibly charming rom-com that will have you laughing out loud. The novel’s smart, witty take on a modern romance is a quality shared by some of the best TV comedies of the year.

Find your copy of The Ex Talk on Amazon here.

External Link: The official website of author Rachel Lynn Solomon is a great place to explore her other fantastic romance novels.

3. The Matzah Ball by Jean Meltzer

The Vibe: Joyful Jewish Representation & A Secret Identity

Jean Meltzer’s The Matzah Ball is a cornerstone of the modern "Jew-com" renaissance and a perfect pick for viewers who loved the deep dive into Jewish culture and community in Nobody Wants This. The story follows Rachel Rubenstein-Goldblatt, a successful Christmas romance novelist who is secretly the daughter of a famous rabbi and has a deep, all-consuming love for Christmas. Her secret obsession is complicated by the fact that she suffers from a chronic illness that is triggered by the stress of her own holiday, Hanukkah. When her publisher demands a Hanukkah romance, she is forced to find inspiration at "The Matzah Ball," a massive Jewish music festival. There, she comes face-to-face with her childhood arch-nemesis, the festival’s organizer, Jacob.

This book is a joyous, heartfelt, and hilarious celebration of Jewish culture. It’s a romance that is deeply rooted in its community, much like Noah's storyline in the show. The novel tackles serious themes, like living with a chronic illness and the complexities of cultural identity, with a remarkable amount of humour and heart. The enemies-to-lovers romance between Rachel and Jacob is charming and full of witty banter. For viewers who were fascinated by the world of Noah's synagogue and community, The Matzah Ball offers an even deeper, more immersive experience. It’s a wonderful, feel-good romance that will leave you with a huge smile on your face.

Find your copy of The Matzah Ball on Amazon here.

4. Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston

The Vibe: High-Stakes Public Romance & Heartfelt Emotion

Casey McQuiston’s phenomenal debut, Red, White & Royal Blue, is a book that perfectly captures the feeling of a high-stakes, deeply personal romance playing out on a global stage. The story follows Alex Claremont-Diaz, the charming, charismatic First Son of the United States, and his long-standing rivalry with Prince Henry, the handsome but reserved prince of England. After an international incident involving a ruined royal wedding cake, the two are forced into a fake friendship for the sake of international relations. Their staged PR relationship slowly and unexpectedly blossoms into a deep, secret, and passionate love affair that could upend their two nations.

While the specific circumstances are different, the core themes will resonate deeply with fans of Nobody Wants This. It’s a story about two people from very different, very public worlds trying to build a genuine connection amidst intense scrutiny. The banter between Alex and Henry is whip-smart, hilarious, and incredibly romantic. The book is a masterful blend of laugh-out-loud comedy, steamy romance, and genuine, heartfelt emotion. It tackles themes of identity, duty, and the courage it takes to be your true self in the public eye. It’s a cultural phenomenon for a reason, an absolute must-read for anyone who loves a smart, funny, and deeply moving love story. The book’s incredible success is a testament to its quality, making it a modern classic, much like some of the best HBO dramas of all time.

Find your copy of Red, White & Royal Blue on Amazon here.

External Link: The Goodreads page for Red, White & Royal Blue showcases the book's incredible popularity and thousands of glowing reader reviews.

5. Book Lovers by Emily Henry

The Vibe: Whip-Smart Protagonists & Intellectual Banter

If your favourite part of Nobody Wants This was the smart, rapid-fire dialogue and the intellectual chemistry between Joanne and Noah, then you need to pick up a copy of Emily Henry’s Book Lovers immediately. The novel follows Nora Stephens, a sharp, successful, and slightly cynical literary agent from New York City. Her life is books. The only problem? She’s the stereotypical "city girlfriend" that the hero always dumps for a charming small-town girl. Her one professional nemesis is Charlie Lastra, a brooding, brilliant, and equally cynical book editor. When Nora goes on a small-town vacation with her sister, she keeps, much to her chagrin, bumping into Charlie.

This book is a masterclass in witty banter. The conversations between Nora and Charlie are pure electricity, a perfectly matched battle of wits that slowly reveals a deep, underlying connection. It’s a romance for people who love books, a story filled with clever inside jokes about the publishing industry. But beneath the sharp, funny exterior is a deeply moving story about family, grief, and learning to let yourself be the main character in your own story. It’s a sophisticated, funny, and emotionally resonant romance that will appeal to anyone who loves watching two incredibly smart people fall in love. The book’s incredible character work is a joy, a quality we also praised in our ranking of the best Gilmore Girls characters.

Find your copy of Book Lovers on Amazon here.

6. Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez

The Vibe: Opposites Attract & Two Worlds Collide

Abby Jimenez’s Part of Your World is a beautiful and emotional romance that perfectly captures the "two worlds collide" and opposites attract themes from Nobody Wants This. The story follows Alexis Montgomery, a driven and sophisticated ER doctor from a long line of world-renowned surgeons. After a car accident in a small town, she meets Daniel, a charming, down-to-earth, and ridiculously handsome carpenter who is a full decade younger than her. Despite their wildly different lives and the vast social chasm between them, they have an undeniable connection. What starts as a secret, temporary fling slowly blossoms into something much deeper, forcing Alexis to question the life she has always thought she wanted.

This book is a masterpiece of emotional storytelling. Abby Jimenez is known for her ability to blend laugh-out-loud humour with genuine, heart-wrenching emotion, and this book is a perfect example of her talent. The relationship between Alexis and Daniel is incredibly romantic and deeply felt. The novel explores themes of family expectations, class differences, and the courage it takes to choose your own happiness over the approval of others. For fans who loved watching the agnostic Joanne and the devout Noah navigate their different worlds, the story of Alexis and Daniel's struggle to bridge the gap between their lives will be deeply resonant. It's a truly beautiful story, the kind you might want to enjoy on a cozy autumn night.

Find your copy of Part of Your World on Amazon here.

External Link: Author Abby Jimenez's official website is a great place to find information about her other beloved and emotional romance novels.

7. Weather Girl by Rachel Lynn Solomon

The Vibe: Jewish Representation, Humor, and Heart

Another fantastic novel from Rachel Lynn Solomon, Weather Girl is a perfect read for those who loved the blend of authentic Jewish representation, workplace dynamics, and heartfelt emotion in Nobody Wants This. The story follows Ari Abrams, a TV meteorologist who is tired of the toxic workplace environment created by her divorced bosses. To solve the problem, she teams up with the station's sweet and charming sports reporter, Russell, to Parent-Trap their bosses back together. As they orchestrate a series of "spontaneous" romantic encounters for their bosses, Ari and Russell find themselves developing a deep and unexpected connection of their own.

This book is a warm, charming, and deeply empathetic romance. Ari is a fantastic protagonist, a woman who is openly dealing with depression and learning to manage her mental health. The Jewish representation is woven beautifully into her character and her family life. The relationship between Ari and Russell is incredibly sweet and supportive, a beautiful depiction of a healthy and loving partnership. The book tackles serious themes with a light and hopeful touch, making it a deeply comforting and satisfying read. It's a wonderful, feel-good romance that will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy.

Find your copy of Weather Girl on Amazon here.

8. The Hating Game by Sally Thorne

The Vibe: The Ultimate Witty Banter & Workplace Romance

For those who believe that the absolute best part of Nobody Wants This was the sharp, cutting, and undeniably flirty banter between Joanne and Noah, then you must read the book that set the modern standard for the trope: The Hating Game. This iconic workplace romance follows Lucy Hutton and Joshua Templeman, two executive assistants at a newly merged publishing company who are locked in a daily battle of passive-aggressive one-upmanship. They despise each other with a passion. When a promotion is announced that will make one of them the other's boss, their rivalry kicks into overdrive. But as they are forced to spend more time together, Lucy begins to realize that the line between love and hate is dangerously thin.

This book is pure, addictive, romantic-comedy perfection. The dialogue is legendary, a masterclass in witty, fast-paced banter that is both hilarious and incredibly romantic. The tension between Lucy and Joshua is so thick you could cut it with a knife. It is the definitive modern enemies-to-lovers story, a book that has been imitated a thousand times but never duplicated. It’s a fun, sexy, and completely consuming read that will have you kicking your feet and grinning from ear to ear. It's a book that truly understands the power of a great verbal sparring match, a quality shared by the greatest TV comedies of all time.

Find your copy of The Hating Game on Amazon here.

9. Attached: The New Science of Adult Attachment by Amir Levine and Rachel S.F. Heller

The Vibe: A Non-Fiction Deep Dive into the "Why"

This is not a romance novel, but for viewers who were fascinated by the complex, push-and-pull dynamic between the anxious Joanne and the more avoidant Noah, the non-fiction book Attached is an absolutely essential read. This groundbreaking book uses the science of adult attachment theory to explain why we think, feel, and act the way we do in romantic relationships. The authors break down the three main attachment styles—Anxious, Avoidant, and Secure—and provide practical, science-backed advice on how to understand your own style and navigate relationships more effectively.

Reading Attached after watching Nobody Wants This is like being given a secret decoder ring for the characters' behaviour. It provides a fascinating framework for understanding why Joanne craves reassurance and why Noah sometimes seems to pull away. It’s a book that can be genuinely life-changing, offering profound insights into your own relationship patterns. It’s a powerful tool for personal growth and for learning how to build healthier, more secure connections. It's a book that can help you on your own journey, a theme we explore in our Transform Your Life series.

Find your copy of Attached on Amazon here.

External Link: The official Attached website offers quizzes and resources to help you discover your own attachment style.

10. Meet Me in the Margins by Melissa Ferguson

The Vibe: Smart Protagonists & An Anonymous Connection

Rounding out our list is another delightful romance set in the book world, Meet Me in the Margins. This is a perfect read for those who loved the intellectual connection and the initial "secret" nature of Joanne and Noah's relationship. The story follows Savannah, a low-level editor at a prestigious publishing house who secretly dreams of becoming a romance novelist. When she is hiding her manuscript in a secret spot in the office, she is shocked to discover that a mysterious, anonymous editor has been leaving her ruthless but brilliant critiques in the margins. What follows is a charming, anonymous correspondence as Savannah tries to uncover the identity of her secret editor, all while falling for him through his words.

The book is a love letter to the world of publishing and to everyone who has ever had a creative dream. The mystery of the editor's identity is incredibly compelling, and the anonymous back-and-forth between him and Savannah is filled with witty banter and palpable chemistry. It’s a sweet, funny, and incredibly charming romance that celebrates the power of stories and the magic of finding someone who truly understands you. It’s a perfect cozy read for a cool autumn day, especially if you enjoy it with a warm cup of tea in your favourite café.

Find your copy of Meet Me in the Margins on Amazon here.

Conclusion

The magic of a show like Nobody Wants This is that it leaves you feeling seen, entertained, and, most of all, wanting more. The ten books on this list are the perfect antidote to that post-binge sadness. Each one, in its own unique way, captures the elements that made the show so special: the sharp, intelligent banter, the heartfelt emotional depth, the joy of an "opposites attract" romance, and the celebration of unique, authentic characters. Whether you want to dive deeper into the world of Jewish rom-coms, get lost in a high-stakes public romance, or simply enjoy another story with characters who feel like real people, there is a perfect book here waiting for you. So, head to your favorite bookstore or library, and get ready to fall in love all over again.

Stream Nobody Wants This now on Netflix.

External Links

1. Goodreads: The largest site for readers and book recommendations in the world.

2. Book of the Month: A popular subscription service that curates new and exciting books for its members.

3. Smart Bitches, Trashy Books: A leading romance novel review site with recommendations, podcasts, and daily deals.

4. The Ripped Bodice: A bookstore dedicated entirely to the romance genre, with fantastic curated lists.

5. TikTok #BookTok Tag: Discover what books are currently trending with millions of readers around the world.

6. NPR's Book Section: A great source for thoughtful book reviews and author interviews.

7. The New York Times Best Sellers List: Keep up with the most popular books in the country.

8. Reese's Book Club: A popular book club curated by Reese Witherspoon, often featuring romance and contemporary fiction.

FAQs

1. What are the main tropes in the TV show Nobody Wants This? The main tropes are interfaith romance, opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine (with a gender-flip), and a romance that plays out in the public eye.

2. Are the books on this list "spicy"? It's a mix. Books like The Hating Game and The Ex Talk have explicit, "open door" scenes. Others, like The Matzah Ball and Meet Me in the Margins, are more "closed door," focusing on romance without the explicit details.

3. What does "Jew-com" mean? "Jew-com" is a popular, fan-created term for the recent and celebrated wave of romantic comedies in publishing that feature joyful, authentic, and central Jewish characters and cultural representation.

4. Do I need to be Jewish to enjoy the books with Jewish representation? Not at all! These books are written for a universal audience. They offer a wonderful and accessible window into Jewish culture, but the romantic and emotional themes are universal.

5. I loved the witty banter in the show. Which book on the list has the best banter? While many of them have great dialogue, Book Lovers by Emily Henry and The Hating Game by Sally Thorne are widely considered to be modern masterpieces of witty, romantic banter.

6. Are there any other TV shows like Nobody Wants This? Fans of the show might enjoy other smart, character-driven comedies with romantic elements like Catastrophe, Fleabag, or The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.

7. What does "opposites attract" mean in romance? "Opposites attract" is a classic romance trope where the two main characters have fundamentally different personalities, lifestyles, or belief systems (e.g., a chaotic artist and a rigid lawyer), and their love story is about bridging that gap.

8. Which book on this list is the most emotional? Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez is known for its incredible emotional depth and its ability to make readers both laugh and cry.

   
   

9. What does "BookTok" mean? "BookTok" is the name for the community of readers, authors, and book lovers on the social media platform TikTok. It has become an incredibly powerful force in the publishing industry, capable of making books go viral and become bestsellers.

10. I'm new to the romance genre. Which book is the best to start with? The Ex Talk by Rachel Lynn Solomon or Funny You Should Ask by Elissa Sussman are both fantastic starting points. They are smart, funny, modern, and perfectly capture the tone and intelligence of a show like Nobody Wants This.