Ranking Taylor Jenkins Reid’s Novels: A Personal Journey Through Her Stories
Having read all of Taylor Jenkins Reid's novels, I needed to pause and appreciate her great power as a storyteller. Her books are more than narratives; they are deeply emotional journeys. Some brought me to tears, others were so compelling they cost me sleep, and all of them possess a lingering quality that stays with me long after I've finished the final chapter.
Here’s my personal ranking of her books, not based on literary critique, but on how each made me feel, think, and reflect. They all meant something, just in different ways.
9. Forever, Interrupted
The relationship between the two main characters was sweet and tender, and the flashbacks were easily the best parts. Still, it didn’t leave a big emotional impact on me overall. A nice read, just not a lasting one.
8. After I Do
This one was fine. I appreciated how clearly it captured emotions and how relationships can erode personalities. It made me think about identity in long-term relationships. But reading it was slow; it didn’t flow naturally for me.
7. Atmosphere
The story had so much potential, and it landed emotionally hard. I was sobbing by the end. But reading it was tough. The space-related physical descriptions were difficult to visualize, and I personally wished for more focus on the female astronaut's experience rather than the romance. That’s on me, not the book.
6. Maybe in Another Life
Such a warm, easy read. Some scenes were painfully realistic and sad, but overall the book gave me a cozy, “hug in a novel” feeling. It’s one of those books I could pull off the shelf, flip to any page, and just start reading again.
5. Malibu Rising
This one felt like reconnecting with old friends, especially with characters that cross over from other books. I read it recently, but it already feels like a familiar favorite. The sibling dynamics were deeply emotional. I felt for them the whole way through.
4. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo
The first TJR novel I ever read. That made it a precious reading experience. I went through it completely blind and was hit with every emotion possible: surprise, joy, anger, heartbreak. Would I re-read it? Probably not, the magic lies in the surprise. But the emotional rollercoaster it gave me will stay with me forever.
3. One True Loves
This book is far from perfect. It’s not thrilling, nor unputdownable. But it quietly comforted me in a way few books do. It reminded me that people change, and that change doesn’t make them bad. Sometimes decisions hurt others, and that’s okay. This book is a gentle reminder that life is messy, and love isn’t black and white.
2. Carrie Soto Is Back
I literally sacrificed sleep for this book. The pacing never let up. I knew nothing about tennis, but by the end, I was emotionally invested in every serve and point. It beautifully explores how toughness and vulnerability can coexist. I wanted a slightly happier ending, but the one I got still left a mark.
1. Daisy Jones & The Six
This is not just my favorite TJR novel, it’s easily in my top 3 books ever. The interview-style storytelling is so unique and gripping that I couldn’t put it down. Even now, unanswered questions still float in my mind. The series adaptation? Loved it! Even though they changed the narrative between turning points, it worked. And the music? “Let Me Down Easy” is on repeat. A story that echoes long after it ends.
If you’re new to TJR, start wherever you feel drawn. Even the books I didn’t personally rank at the top still carried weight and perspective. You’re in for something unforgettable.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart, TJR. I'm patiently awaiting the next journey.