Jojo Moyes Books In Order: A Complete List

As readers, we often find ourselves drawn to the works of specific authors, their unique styles resonating with our tastes and preferences. One such prolific author is Jojo Moyes, a British novelist renowned for her enchanting blend of romance, drama, and realistic character arcs.

Her books have frequently graced the bestseller lists and have been translated into many languages, underscoring their global appeal. This post will provide a detailed look at Moyes’ literary contributions, presented in the order of their publication. It will also delve into her life, throwing light on the experiences that influenced her writing.

Jojo Moyes Books in Order

1. “Sheltering Rain” (2002)
2. “Foreign Fruit” (2003)
3. “The Peacock Emporium” (2004)
4. “The Ship of Brides” (2005)
5. “Silver Bay” (2007)
6. “Night Music” (2008)
7. “The Horse Dancer” (2009)
8. “The Last Letter from Your Lover” (2010)
9. “Me Before You” (2012)
10. “Honeymoon in Paris” (2012)
11. The Girl You Left Behind” (2012)
12. “The One Plus One” (2014)
13. “After You” (2015)
14. “Paris for One and Other Stories” (2016)
15. “Still Me” (2018)
16. “The Giver of Stars” (2019)

About Jojo Moyes

Born in 1969 in London, England, Jojo Moyes graduated from Royal Holloway and Bedford New College, University of London. She embarked on her professional career in journalism before turning her talents into fiction.

The unique combination of her journalistic precision and imaginative storytelling has since made her one of the most adored authors in contemporary literature.

Moyes’ novels often explore themes of love, relationships, and self-discovery. She is perhaps best known for her work “Me Before You,” which sparked a successful film adaptation in 2016. The novel, together with its sequels “After You” and “Still Me,” forms a trilogy that has touched millions of hearts worldwide.

As we trace Moyes’ literary journey, we are treated to her evolving narrative style and deepening insight into the complexities of the human experience.

Summary of every book

“Sheltering Rain” (2002)

This poignant tale revolves around three generations of women, each grappling with their own emotional turmoil. The story begins with Joy, a courageous young woman living a life of adventure as a horse-riding courier in Hong Kong during the 1950s.

She falls in love with Edward, a handsome navy officer, leading to a whirlwind romance set against the backdrop of a world on the brink of war. Fast forward to the present, Joy, now living in Ireland, is estranged from her daughter, Kate, who in turn is struggling to connect with her own teenage daughter, Sabine.

When Sabine is sent to Ireland to stay with Joy, she is initially resistant. However, as she explores her grandmother’s history, secrets come to light that challenges their preconceptions, resulting in a profound bonding experience among the three women.

“Foreign Fruit” (2003)

Moyes transports us to Merham, a quaint seaside town where conformity is prized above all else. In the 1950s, Lottie and Celia are enchanted by the Ark, a grand Art Deco house filled with bohemians who defy the conservative norms of the town. Fast forward fifty years, Lottie’s brother, a modern architect, decides to renovate the Ark, which has fallen into disrepair.

However, the renovation project uncovers secrets from the past that intertwine with the present, causing old and new Merham residents to confront their history, prejudices, and hidden desires.

“The Peacock Emporium” (2004)

The narrative follows Suzanna Peacock, who struggles with dissatisfaction and an identity crisis borne out of her complex family history. To find purpose and escape her past, Suzanna opens the Peacock Emporium, a shop in the small town of St. Jude’s. The Emporium becomes a haven for the local community, a place of solace, coffee, and conversation.

When Alejandro, a caring and charismatic Argentinian man, enters Suzanna’s life, she is forced to confront her troubled past, address her present relationships, and make decisions about her future.

“The Ship of Brides” (2005)

This historical novel is set in 1946 and draws inspiration from the real-life voyage of the HMS Victoria, which transported war brides from Australia to England. The narrative follows the journey of four women: Margaret, Frances, Jean, and Avice.

Each woman has her own reasons for making the journey, their own anxieties, and dreams of what life in a post-war world might hold. As they navigate the choppy waters of life aboard the ship, they forge unexpected friendships and discover that the journey to their new life is as significant as the life awaiting them.

“Silver Bay” (2007)

Liza McCullen, haunted by a traumatic past, finds refuge in Silver Bay with her young daughter, Hannah. The bay, with its pods of dolphins and whales, is a place where she feels safe. Their tranquil life is disturbed by the arrival of Mike Dormer from London, who plans to develop a luxury resort that threatens the survival of the bay’s marine wildlife.

As the community rallies to resist the development, Liza finds herself drawn to Mike but fears the impact on her family and the town she has grown to love. As secrets unfold, Liza must face her past and make difficult decisions about her future.

“Night Music” (2008)

The story unfolds around Isabel Delancey, a classically trained violinist, suddenly widowed and left with a mountain of debt. She moves with her two children to a rundown house in the English countryside. Her new life is anything but peaceful as she deals with her feisty neighbors, a home falling apart, and financial instability.

With the help of her neighbors, including the initially unwelcoming Matt McCarthy, Isabel learns to adapt to her new life and rediscover her music.

“The Horse Dancer” (2009)

This narrative features Sarah, a 14-year-old girl dedicated to her horse, Boo, dreaming of becoming an elite equestrian. Her life takes a downturn when her grandfather falls ill, threatening her ability to care for Boo. Concurrently, Natasha, a young, ambitious lawyer, is struggling with her failing marriage to Mac.

Sarah and Natasha’s paths cross in an unexpected twist of fate, leading to lessons about resilience, love, and achieving one’s dreams.

“The Last Letter from Your Lover” (2010)

This love story unfolds in two timelines: 1960 and 2003. In the 1960s, Jennifer Stirling, the wife of a wealthy industrialist, wakes up from a car crash with amnesia. She discovers love letters from a man who isn’t her husband, pushing her to recall her past.

In 2003, Ellie Haworth, a journalist, stumbles upon these letters, inspiring her to piece together the mystery behind them. Their stories intertwine in an exploration of love, longing, and the power of written words.

“Me Before You” (2012)

This touching tale introduces us to Louisa Clark, an ordinary girl leading an uneventful life in a small town. When she takes up a job as a caregiver for Will Traynor, a young man left paralyzed by a motorcycle accident, their lives change forever. Will’s bitterness about his condition initially challenges Louisa, but she is determined to show him that life is worth living.

Their relationship blooms into an unforgettable love story that tests the boundaries of love, life, and the will to keep going.

“Honeymoon in Paris” (2012)

This novella provides a prequel to “The Girl You Left Behind.” It features two couples on their honeymoons in Paris during different timelines: Edouard and Sophie in 1912, and Liv and David in 2002. Each couple grapples with early marital misunderstandings and insecurities, mirroring each other’s experiences across time.

Their stories provide a beautiful juxtaposition of old and new Paris and delve into the complexities of love and marriage.

“The Girl You Left Behind” (2012)

The novel unfolds across two timelines. In 1916, French artist Edouard Lefevre leaves his wife Sophie to fight in World War I. When her town falls under German occupation, Sophie’s portrait, painted by her husband, captures the attention of the German Kommandant.

A century later, Liv Halston receives the painting as a wedding gift, which becomes a cherished possession. But when the painting’s troubled history is revealed, a battle begins for its ownership, drawing Liv into Sophie’s world, revealing how both women are bound by the painting and their resilience to fight for what they love.

“The One Plus One” (2014)

Jess Thomas, a single mother working two jobs, meets Ed Nicholls, a tech millionaire whose life is in chaos when he ends up in her seaside town. Jess’s daughter Tanzie is a math prodigy, and a unique opportunity arises that could help Tanzie escape their financial struggles. Ed offers to drive them across the country to the Maths Olympiad.

Throughout the journey, these four contrasting personalities come together in an unexpectedly touching and humorous way, teaching one another about love, family, and hope.

“After You” (2015)

This sequel to “Me Before You” follows Louisa Clark’s life after Will Traynor’s death. Struggling to cope with her grief, Lou moves to London and starts a job at a posh bar in the airport. Her life takes a drastic turn when she meets Lily, a troubled teenager who claims to be Will’s daughter.

As Lou helps Lily come to terms with her father’s death, she discovers new aspects of herself and learns to embrace life again.

“Paris for One and Other Stories” (2016)

This collection of short stories is centered around women facing decisive moments in their lives. The titular novella “Paris for One” follows Nell, who goes to Paris alone after being stood up by her boyfriend. During her solo trip, Nell steps out of her comfort zone and embarks on an empowering journey of self-discovery.

The other stories explore themes of love, change, and taking control of one’s life.

“Still Me” (2018)

Concluding the trilogy that started with “Me Before You,” “Still Me” finds Louisa Clark in New York City, working as a personal assistant to the wealthy Gopnik family. She tries to maintain her relationship with Ambulance Sam, who is back in England while navigating the complications of her new job and the intrigues of New York high society.

The sudden appearance of a figure from Will Traynor’s past forces Lou to reevaluate her life, leading to a heartfelt exploration of identity, love, and the notion of home.

Reading Order of Jojo Moyes Books:

While many of Jojo Moyes’ books are stand-alone novels, they can be read in the order of their publication to observe the evolution of her storytelling. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, here is the order:

1. Sheltering Rain (2002)
2. Foreign Fruit (2003)
3. The Peacock Emporium (2004)
4. The Ship of Brides (2005)
5. Silver Bay (2007)
6. Night Music (2008)
7. The Horse Dancer (2009)
8. The Last Letter from Your Lover (2010)
9. Me Before You (2012)
10. Honeymoon in Paris (2012) – A novella prequel to “The Girl You Left Behind.”
11. The Girl You Left Behind (2012)
12. The One Plus One (2014)
13. After You (2015) – The sequel to “Me Before You.”
14. Paris for One and Other Stories (2016) – A short story collection.
15. Still Me (2018) – The third book in the “Me Before You” trilogy.

Order of the “Me Before You” Trilogy:

The “Me Before You” trilogy, centered around the character Louisa Clark, should be read in the following order:

• Me Before You (2012)
• After You (2015)
• Still Me (2018)

These novels chronologically follow Louisa Clark’s life and relationships, so reading them out of order could lead to significant plot revelations and might hamper the continuity and emotional impact of the story.

A number of Jojo Moyes Books:

Jojo Moyes has written 15 novels and 1 novella. These include standalone books, a collection of short stories, and the “Me Before You” trilogy. Remember to check for updates, as she may have published more books since then.

Latest Book by Jojo Moyes:

The latest book by Jojo Moyes is “Still Me,” released in 2018. This novel is the third installment in the “Me Before You” trilogy. Please check the most recent sources or Jojo Moyes’ official website for updates, as she may have released new books after my last training data.

Netflix Movie Based on Jojo Moyes:

The film “The Last Letter from Your Lover” (2021) is based on Jojo Moyes’ 2010 novel of the same name. The movie was made available for streaming on Netflix.

This dual-narrative story set in London and the French Riviera is about a passionate, illicit affair that takes place in the 1960s, and a young journalist in the present day who becomes enamored with uncovering the mystery of the affair after discovering a trove of secret love letters.

Best Jojo Moyes Book:

Determining the best Jojo Moyes book is subjective as it largely depends on individual reader preferences. However, her most well-known and highly-rated book is “Me Before You” (2012). It was a massive success, both commercially and critically, and sparked a trilogy.

The novel is a compelling love story that explores ethical dilemmas and the boundaries of personal freedom. Its success led to a popular film adaptation in 2016.

Books to Read if You Like Jojo Moyes:

If you enjoy Jojo Moyes’ books, you might appreciate novels with similar themes of love, resilience, and complex human relationships. Here are some recommendations:

• Big Little Lies” by Liane Moriarty: This book offers a blend of humor, romance, and suspense, focusing on the intricate relationships between women and the secrets they hold.
• The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah: A historical novel set in World War II, it’s a tale of survival, love, and the strength of women in the face of adversity.
• “Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman: This is a compelling story about an out-of-the-ordinary heroine whose quirky yet lonely life changes when she meets a kind man.
• “Normal People” by Sally Rooney: This novel follows the intricate relationship between two people over several years, exploring their personal growth, connections, and challenges.
• “The Light We Lost” by Jill Santopolo: This is a passionate love story that delves into fate, choice, and the different paths that love can take.

Remember, reading is a highly personal experience, and the best book for you depends on your individual tastes.

Who is Jojo Moyes, and how did she become a writer?

Jojo Moyes is a British journalist-turned-novelist, born in 1969 in London, England. She grew up in a family where reading was a significant part of everyday life, sparking her interest in literature and storytelling.

Before launching her career as a novelist, Moyes worked as a journalist for about ten years, spending the last of those as a full-time news correspondent in various media, including ‘The Independent.’

In the early 2000s, she made the transition to writing novels, publishing her first book, “Sheltering Rain,” in 2002. The shift to fiction writing was inspired by her desire to explore the depths of human relationships and emotions more intricately than journalism allowed.

Her novels often delve into complex themes such as love, family, personal growth, and resilience against adversity.

What are the central themes of Jojo Moyes’ works?

The central themes of Jojo Moyes’ novels often revolve around love, relationships, personal growth, and resilience in the face of adversity. These themes manifest in various forms, such as romantic love, familial bonds, friendships, and even the relationship one has with oneself.

For instance, her novel “Me Before You” explores the boundaries of love and personal freedom, presenting a touching love story between a disabled man and his caregiver. In contrast, “The Girl You Left Behind” centers on the resilient love of two women for the same painting across different eras, emphasizing the lasting impact of art on human lives.

How does Jojo Moyes’ background as a journalist influence her writing?

Jojo Moyes’ journalistic background has significantly influenced her storytelling style. As a journalist, one develops a keen eye for detail, a knack for clear, concise communication, and a deep understanding of people and their motivations.

These skills are evident in Moyes’ work, with her books often marked by meticulous character development, strong dialogue, and intricate explorations of human emotions and motivations.
Additionally, Moyes’ experience as a journalist has contributed to her research skills, enabling her to build believable worlds and scenarios in her books.

Whether it’s the authenticity of a quadriplegic’s experience in “Me Before You” or the historical backdrop of “The Girl You Left Behind,” Moyes ensures that her narratives are grounded in well-researched reality.

What led to the success of “Me Before You,” and what impact did it have on Moyes’ career?

“Me Before You,” published in 2012, marked a significant turning point in Moyes’ career. The book’s success can be attributed to its compelling characters, thought-provoking plot, and sensitive exploration of ethical dilemmas.

The book was translated into numerous languages and adapted into a successful Hollywood movie in 2016. Furthermore, it sparked a trilogy, enabling Moyes to further explore the life of the beloved protagonist, Louisa Clark, in “After You” (2015) and “Still Me” (2018).

How does Moyes portray female characters in her books?

Moyes is known for her richly drawn female characters who are often at the center of her narratives. Her women are multifaceted, resilient, and real. They may be flawed and face a myriad of challenges, but they are also strong, capable, and determined.

Whether it’s Louisa Clark’s transformation in the “Me Before You” trilogy, the courageous war brides in “The Ship of Brides,” or the strong-willed women in “The Girl You Left Behind,” Moyes’ female characters are relatable and inspiring. They reflect the complexities, strengths, and vulnerabilities of women, making them resonate with readers of all backgrounds.

What elements of Jojo Moyes’ writing make her books appealing to a broad audience?

Jojo Moyes’ writing appeals to a wide audience due to a combination of factors. Her storytelling is characterized by engaging plots, well-developed characters, and a keen understanding of human emotions. Her stories touch on universal themes of love, resilience, personal growth, and relationships, making them relatable to many readers.

Additionally, Moyes’ writing style is accessible and engaging. She balances lighter, humorous moments with deeper, emotional scenes, creating a reading experience that is both enjoyable and thought-provoking. This balance allows her books to cater to readers who enjoy various genres, from romance and drama to historical fiction and contemporary literature.

How does Jojo Moyes utilize dual timelines and multiple perspectives in her novels?

Moyes often uses dual timelines and multiple perspectives in her novels to weave intricate narratives that span different periods and characters. This technique allows her to create rich, multi-layered stories that provide readers with a broader view of the plot and characters.

For example, in “The Girl You Left Behind,” she juxtaposes the lives of Sophie, a woman living in German-occupied France during World War I, and Liv, a widow living in modern-day London. Despite their different circumstances and eras, the two women are bound together by a painting and their shared experience of love and loss.

Similarly, in “The Last Letter from Your Lover,” Moyes employs a dual timeline to narrate a love story that unfolds both in the 1960s and the present day. By employing multiple perspectives, she allows readers to experience the story from various angles, enriching the narrative and creating a more immersive reading experience.

Can you share more about the impact of the “Me Before You” series on popular culture?

The “Me Before You” series, beginning with the title book in 2012 and followed by “After You” in 2015 and “Still Me” in 2018, had a substantial impact on popular culture. The first book in the series, “Me Before You,” was adapted into a successful film in 2016, starring Emilia Clarke and Sam Claflin, which brought Moyes’ work to an even wider audience.

The story’s themes of love, personal growth, and dealing with physical disability struck a chord with many, prompting significant discussions about quality of life and personal choices.

Can you describe the significance of Moyes’ focus on female protagonists and their development in her novels?

Moyes’ focus on female protagonists and their development is a crucial aspect of her storytelling. By focusing on women of various backgrounds and circumstances, she presents a diverse range of female experiences, which contribute to the authenticity and relatability of her work.

These characters often undergo significant personal growth, navigating complex relationships, challenging circumstances, and emotional turmoil, reflecting real-life struggles and triumphs that many women face.

What are some common motifs or symbols used in Moyes’ novels, and what do they represent?

Moyes’ novels often feature motifs and symbols that represent broader themes. For example, the bumblebee tights in “Me Before You” symbolize Louisa Clark’s vivacious and quirky personality, as well as her capacity for change and growth.

The painting in “The Girl You Left Behind,” serves as a symbol of enduring love, art’s transformative power, and the connection between past and present.

How does Jojo Moyes create a balance between romance, humor, and serious themes in her books?

Moyes has a knack for striking a balance between romance, humor, and serious themes in her books. She does this by creating authentic and relatable characters who experience the full range of human emotions, from joy and love to sorrow and loss.

The romantic elements of her stories are often interwoven with challenges and adversities, reflecting the complexities of real-life relationships. Meanwhile, moments of humor provide relief and add a layer of humanity to her characters, making them more endearing to readers.

How do Jojo Moyes’ books reflect the complexities of human relationships?

Moyes’ books often delve into the complexities of human relationships – whether they are romantic, familial, or platonic. Through her characters and plots, she explores the joys, challenges, misunderstandings, compromises, and growth that are inherent in human interactions.

Her books also highlight how external circumstances, personal choices, and life changes can impact relationships, adding to their complexity and dynamism.

What are some of the real-world issues that Moyes’ books shed light on, and how does she handle these sensitive topics?

Moyes’ books often tackle real-world issues, such as physical disability, grief, ethical dilemmas, and societal expectations. For example, “Me Before You” presents an intimate look at living with a severe physical disability, delving into the day-to-day challenges, societal prejudices, and ethical questions related to assisted dying.

Moyes handles these sensitive topics with compassion, nuance, and respect, allowing readers to gain deeper insights and empathy toward these issues.

How does Jojo Moyes’ prior career in journalism influence her approach to novel writing?

Moyes’ prior career as a journalist has significantly influenced her approach to novel writing. As a journalist, Moyes was trained to conduct thorough research, fact-check details, and convey complex ideas in a clear and engaging manner.

These skills have translated into her fiction writing, where she creates detailed, well-researched settings, and plots with authenticity and precision. Moreover, her background in journalism has honed her ability to create compelling narratives that captivate readers from beginning to end.

Conclusion

Jojo Moyes’ novels have captured the hearts of readers worldwide, thanks to their compelling characters, thought-provoking themes, and engaging storytelling. Her works often provide insightful reflections on human experiences, from the complexities of relationships to the exploration of real-world issues.

Whether you’re already a fan or a newcomer to Moyes’ work, there’s no denying the impact she’s had on the literary scene. As you journey through her novels, you’ll find a wealth of emotion, depth, and humanity that makes her stories well worth the read.