25 Funny & Lighthearted Books Guaranteed to Boost Your Mood

Dive into the best list of funny, Funny light hearted books

Funny and light hearted books can instantly bring happiness. Whether you’re looking for feel-good novels to relieve stress and anxiety, or light romance to kill the time, you can’t go wrong with a good lighthearted book. 

The best way to describe lighthearted novels is:  

These are  books that are less intense, and filled with laugh-out-loud moments. Light reads are soothing for your soul and can uplift your mood in no time. Not only do these books offer you an escape from reality, but also they give you that much needed break from your daily routines.

Sophie Kinsella is one of my favorite British chick-lit authors who writes funny and joy filled light reads. Her novels are filled with quirky characters, her funny and sweet stories can make anyone happy and relaxed.  She has written many great books that can clearly be  classified as fun, light hearted books for adults. 

So in this list of great lighthearted and fun books you will find novels that offer both comfort and escape. I have included feel-good books from the best writers out there so that you are sure to have a good time reading it. 

Whether you’re looking for the best light-hearted books for book club, light hearted romance books to read on the beach or funny light hearted books for the whole family there are many great book recommendations. 

Why should you include funny light hearted books in your reading list?

• Best light-hearted fiction books can actually make you sleep well.  They are perfect books to read just before bed. 

Want to know the best part? I love LISTENING to best narrated, light and funny audiobooks just before bed. I just put on my apple airpods and listen to uplifting light romance novels and drift off to sleep just like that. 

• Funny,  light books for adults can uplift your mood instantly, especially if you had a bad day at work.
• Whether you are in a reading slump or getting back to reading, choosing the best light-hearted books can lift you out of a slump in no time. Epic books guaranteed to get back into reading. 

• Reading a a fluffy romance with witty banter can be a great way to kill time without a smartphone.
• Lighthearted novels are a book perfect cure for anxieties. 

Now that you know reading light novels is actually good for you, let’s get started with 22 uplifting, funny and light hearted books guaranteed to lift your mood.

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Funny and Lighthearted books My Top Picks

Book Lovers by Emily Henry

When it comes to a perfect lighthearted funny books for adults that will make one laugh, Emily Henry knows how to do it. Her new book , Book Lovers is a charming romantic comedy filled with funny moments.

Nora Stephens, the main female protagonist, does not aim to be the IT girl of modern society; rather, she is busy at her job in a literary agency. All she cares about is her precious clients and her one and only sister, Libby. Later when Libby convinces her to take a girl’s trip to Sunshine Falls, she agrees reluctantly.

Once there she meets a fellow editor Charlie Lastra who constantly annoys her in every possible way. Rom-com has the perfect example of fun-filled light reads. Plus it’s a popular chick lit books that readers absolutely loved reading. So so many reasons to read this one immedialy

Find more uplifting feel good romantic comedy books here!

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Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren

Love and Other Words swiftly jumps between two timelines focusing on the compassionate love story of Macy Sorensen and Elliot Petropoulos.

There are two love stories that come together in a way that both describe the past and the present scenarios. In the first, Macy meets Elliot and falls in love during her stay at her father’s vacation home. Next we meet Macy after many years, and she has been portrayed as a young doctor engaged to a single father, and she hasn’t spoken to Elliot since their split.While she’s still living with her fiancé, she’s also struggling with her feelings for Elliot. Through flashbacks, we’re able to see some of the tender moments that she’s made in her relationship with Elliot.

Christina Lauren has skilfully combined the two timelines into the plot by establishing the present emotions as well as many nostalgic memories. That’s why this novel is a splendid light hearted book for women that can boost your mood from the first page. This is one of my favourite second chance romance book. I don’t usually feel like to reread these second chance tropes, but Love and Other Words is a real gem that I wouldn’t mind reading a few times.

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Heartstopper by Alice Oseman

Next comes another uplifting, funny lighthearted book for young adults and adults that will make your day brighter. Heartstopper follows two boys who begin to realise each other’s emotions. Also you know there is a whole series dedicated to these wonder moments Nick and Charlie? Read here Alice Oseman’s Heartstopper Book Series in Order

Let me quickly summarise this book. Charlie and Nick study in the same school but have never met one another. Charlie is popular in school to have come out as gay while Nick is a popular rugby player. They quickly become friends and begin to care for each other.

This graphic novel is a light-touch relationship drama with a sweet and fun romance. If you’re a seasonal reader, you’ll love this post- 24 Chilling And Atmospheric YA Fall Reads For 2022

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It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey 

Tessa Bailey is known for writing sexy, light reads that will make the perfect escape for book lovers. She is one of the best chick-lit / women’s fiction authors!

Her latest rom-com It Happened One Summer is just that. Piper Bellinger is LA ”It Girl” who has always been a wild child. When her rooftop party goes horribly wrong her step-dad sends her off to her hometown, a small-seaside town in Washington.

And that’s where she meets Brendan, the grumpy, big bearded fisherman who seems to take an instant dislike towards her. Will Piper be able to win him over and find a new life in this new town?

There is something magical about reading small-town romance books. maybe it’s the feeling of community and picturesque settings. For me these books are always a perfect escape. So get hot and steamy book ASAP.  

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Best Lighthearted Books that are Funny and Uplifting

Mad About You by Mhairi McFarlane

Mad About You begins with a breakup resulting from the female protagonist Harriet’s decision to end her relationship with her boyfriend. Harriet is a thirty-year-old wedding photographer who doesn’t want to get married.

Instead, she moves to a place that is just down-the-hall distance from her ex-boyfriend, who is from an upper-class family and has never shown her any genuine affection. Soon Harriet leaves her boyfriend and finds herself in a new apartment with Cal Clarke.

She quickly realises how comfortable she felt around Cal because of their similar past experiences with their respective lovers.

It’s difficult to name Mhairi McFarlane’s books as light read as her novels have multi-layered characters and plot.

For instance, I loved her novel, Just Last Night. I want to include it in the list, but it does have more serious tone to the story. So I figured, Mad About You suits the list best. Thus this book deserves to be in the list of lighthearted novels to read that are also delightful and charming.

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Guncle by Steven Rowley

Steven Rowley’s lighthearted clean book is a quirky novel about a retired TV star who is leading a reclusive life.

Because of the recent tragedy Patrick is forced to become the guardian of his niece and nephew. Although he loves to spend weekends with the children, becoming a full-time caretaker isn’t something he is looking forward to doing. Despite begging the fun uncle, Patrick begins to release that parenting includes much more than treats and jokes. 

This sweet family story is a fun book choice for light reading. Guncle is the type of the book you need when you are in a bad mood. But keep in mind that there humorous AND humorous moments.

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Mary Jane by Jessica Anya Blau

Mary Jane a refreshingly fun novel about an oppressed teenager named Mary Jane.

Set in 1970s Baltimore we follow fourteen year old Mary Jane who has just gotten a summer job as a nanny for a prestigious family. But when she actually visits the family, it was nothing like she had ever expected. The house is a terrible mess and there is no food in the fridge or table. Mary Jane is even more surprised to see the family’s honest affection towards each other. And then comes the famous rockstar and his equally famous and glamorous wife. And  just like that Mary Jane’s life is about to change forever. 

Get ready to spend a summer week at the beach with these light and fun characters. I highly recommend listening to the audiobook version, as Caitlin Kinnunen is one of the best narrators that you won’t stop listening to.

Not only makes it the story utterly funny and charming but also, you will be able to enjoy the original song from the novel!  So I HIGHLY suggest listening to this fun novel that captures the essence of the ’70s with humor.

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Dial A for Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto 

This murder mystery follows Meddelin Chan who is going on a blind date. Unfortunately, she ends up killing the date and calls her meddlesome aunts for help.

However, disposing of a dead body turns out to be a lot more challenging than they had expected, especially now that their family business is at stake.

Dial A for Aunties is a well written, funny light hearted books for adults. You’ll be excited to read laugh-out-loud and nail-biting moments! 

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Meet Me in Paradise by Libby Hubscher

Marin Cole has never been someone who goes out of her comfort shell. Ever since the death of her mother she is vigilant about her life, never leaving her home city.

However, her younger sister Sadie, is an adrenaline junkie and is completely opposite to Marin. So when Sadie asks Marin to join the sisters’ spa weekend, she agrees to join her so that she can keep a watchful eye on her sister. However, things didn’t go as planned when Sadie misses their flight and Marin encounters someone new after a very long time. ‘

Meet Me in Paradise is a compelling one of the best light hearted books for book club, about sisterhood and unexpected love. 

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The Candid Life of Meena Dave by Namrata Patel

Photojournalist Meena Dave has never belonged anywhere. She loves her solitary life which includes no permanent address or family.

But when she learns about a mysterious inheritance, in historic Back Bay, Boston, the news leaves her totally flabbergasted. The inheritance turns out to be an old apartment which is surrounded by bossy neighbours. Will Meena’s journalistic instinct help her figure out this mysterious house and neighbours?

This lighthearted debut novel is filled with fun characters and moments that you wouldn’t be able to put down for a moment. 

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Funny You Should Ask by Elissa Sussman

Chani Horowitz was looking for a life-changing book deal when she was hired to write a profile for the up-coming star and her celebrity crush Gabe Parker.

And when she meets the young star, the interview turns out to be a weekend together. Although the job has changed the lives of both, their relationship didn’t last long. Now ten year later the duo meets again. This time Chani is divorced and unable to get out of the chaos that the first interview had caused. Will they be able to start from where they had left off?

This light-hearted fiction book is filled with steamy romance and delightful banter. 

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Finlay Donovan Is Killing It by Elle Cosimano 

Looking for a fast-paced, lighthearted, comedy novel to boost your mood ?

Then you are going to enjoy the story of writer Finlay Donovan and her endless challenges. Finlay’s life is a constant juggling act between her career and family. She is a newly single mother with two young children and no money. While discussing the plot of her new novel, she is mistaken for a contract killer. Soon she will find herself amidst life-threatening events.

This perfectly plotted novel is a perfect escape read for adults. 

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The Flatshare by Beth O’Leary

Author Beth O’Leary’s debut novel follows Tiffy and Leon, who have agreed on an unusual agreement.

Both are sharing a flat and a bed but they don’t see each other at all. Tiffany has the day job so when she leaves for work, Leon is back from work. Once Leon leaves Tiffany has the apartment in the evenings. Despite not seeing one another, they manage to communicate with each other through little notes. After a while, their lives begin to intersect and both begin to get to know each other. I love fun light reads that feature unique stories and characters.

The Flatshare is a lighthearted fluff romance that can cheer you up instantly!

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The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman 

The Thursday Murder Club consists of four septuagenarians Elizabeth, Joyce, Ibrahim, and Ronare who are the residents of Coopers Chase Retirement Village.

Every week they get together to discuss cold case muder files.  As each member has had a great career in solving crimes, they still take pride in their skills to solve mysteries. But then comes a unique opportunity to solve a new case. Now it’s time for “The Thursday Murder Club” to roll up their sleeves and solve the case.

This character-driven murder mystery is a light read with witty and lighthearted romp.

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If the Shoe Fits by Julie Murphy

The Shoe Fits by Julie Murphy is a swoon-worthy light hearted romance book that describes the life of a contemporary Cinderella with a different sibling relationship setting.

The story begins with a preview of the chubby aspiring shoe designer Cindy Woods, her typical rich and famous mother, and two step sisters, but with a twist. Cindy has a keen interest in shoes and has been looking for a suitable job in the fashion industry for a while. Her stepmother, for a change, is loving and supportive and offers her a last-minute position at a fashion reality show that she is in charge of. There, Cindy meets the charming prince, Henry.

Being on a national television show brings a lot of attention to a plus-size woman like Cindy. Soon, her chemistry with Henry and her confidence helps her become a fan favourite. This is a funny rom-com to read after a tiring day at work.

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Anxious People by Fredrik Backman 

In this list of fun and light reads next comes a deeply funny, well-plotted novel  by New York Times Bestselling author Fredrik Backman.

Anxious People is the story of a failed bank robbery. When the robbery goes horribly wrong, the robber jumps into an apartment viewing and turns viewers into hostages. However, what is supposed to be a shocking incident turns out to be a place to open up and find solace in one another.

Unlike other novels in this post, Backman’s novel handles a lot more complex themes such as marriage, parenting and society. I absolutely can’t recommend this book enough. Anxious People not only brings happiness and joy but also fills you with a huge amount of hope.

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The Summer Place by Jennifer Weiner

The Summer Place begins with Veronica’s wish for a family get-together.

After  her husband’s death, her daughter Sarah moved to New York and her son Sam was away, the house suddenly became empty. When Ruby, her granddaughter, announced that she was engaged to her boyfriend, the entire family suddenly got excited together for a wedding. The storyline slowly moves with Sarah struggling and having second thoughts about her marriage and her decision to let go of an old lover while also questioning her logic regarding her desire to become a professional pianist. Meanwhile, Eli, Veronica’s son-in-law, is consumed by a secret that could ruin his own and other relationships.

Jennifer Weiner’s novel is a light hearted comedy book that is filled with family secrets and hot affairs.  This is also a kind of book that you would want to add to your beach reading list.

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 Love in the Time of Serial Killers by Alicia Thompson

Phoebe Walsh, a true crime genre enthusiast, is all set to write her Ph.D. dissertation on the same. In order to write her article, she decides to move to Florida, her late father’s house.

There she meets her new neighbour Sam who offers her to help move stuff into the house. While Phoebe is completely smitten by his charming behaviour, his suspicious activities make Phoebe more alarmed, and as a crime genre obsessor, she begins to investigate Sam on her own. Thompson has cleverly blended crime and romance, which makes the reader intrigued till the end of the book.

The interesting part about Love in the Time of Serial Killers’ is that it’s described as a unique rom-com with  wry humor and messy characters. It also has Plus slow-burn and steamy romance. So defiantly worth adding to the list of light romance novel to read in 2023. 

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The Dead Romantics by Ashley Poston

One of Florence Day’s secrets is that she’s the ghostwriter for a well-known romance writer.

She also has a secret about being able to see ghosts. Florence was a front-line rom-com writer until she got her heart broken and found it difficult to write romantic stories because of the obvious lack of love in her life. Later her handsome yet harsh editor Benji Andor shuts her down on her next book deadline, making her very downhearted. Like that wasn’t enough, she receives the terrible news of her father’s demise and sets to go back to her hometown after a decade. The story takes an unforeseen turn when Florence encounters Benji at her father’s funeral.

The Dead Romantics is Poston’s refreshingly funny, and easy to read book that will make a great lighthearted book. Also if you are a fan of romance books set in autumn, this book is a good one too.

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 To Love and Be Loved by Amanda Prowse

To Love and Be Loved follows our protagonist Merrin.

After a humiliating and traumatic experience, Merrin decides to leave her present life and build a new one from scratch where she can mould herself into a different person.

However, after six years, fate has other plans for her, as she is forced to return to the same village. Slowly, she begins to re-evaluate her life choices and her future endeavours.

This poignant story about love and family is a sweet and uplifting tale for the lovers of lighthearted books.  To Love and Be Loved is also a fabulous family drama that focuses on the themes of family ties and lost love.

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In a New York Minute by Kate Spencer

Minutes after getting fired from her Job, Fanny is running into a series of humiliating events. Firstly, her beloved silk dress got torn by the subway doors, and she had to face quite a wardrobe malfunction.

Later, a charming stranger named Hayes Montgomery III comes to her rescue. What was supposed to be a meet-cute turns out to be catastrophic. Now all this is on the internet, making them the famous subway couple where a dashing prince saves a damsel in distress. Now, even after Fanny and Hayes part ways, they keep bumping into each other in various circumstances. Even if they both enjoy each other’s company, will they ever be a hot couple? 

In a New York Minute is a light read and a perfect romance novel for the fans of Christina Lauren and Abby Jimenez.  If you want more reasons , let me also add that this a slow-burn romance is set in NYC and would make a great beach read.

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The Reading List by Sara Nisha Adams

The Reading List is a captivating story about the power of books to transform lives. It is the story of widower Mukesh and his ordinary-routined life where he lives in the London Borough of Ealing with his introverted granddaughter Priya.

Priya is a profound bookworm and doesn’t communicate a lot which is why Mukesh tries to explore the local library so that he can connect more with his granddaughter. Meanwhile, teenage Aleisha, who was working at the library, finds a crumpled-up piece of paper with a list of life-changing books. She later finds Mukesh juggling with many reading options and decides to pass on the list to help him overcome his predicament.

There are so many good reasons to pick up The Reading List other than being an easy read. The book has many great themes such as libraries, communities, colours and cultures. It’s again one of those books that will make you laugh and cry at the same time.

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Penelope in Retrograde by Brooke Abrams

Penelope in Retrograde follows Penelope Banks, a writer who makes romantic stories. She comes back home for Thanksgiving to make things right with her family, who she’s been apart from for a while.

She also hopes to find her own romantic story. There’s a problem, though. Her bookstore is in trouble, so she asks her ex-husband to pretend to be her boyfriend. This leads to a sweet journey where they fix their family relationships and Penelope finds her own happy ending.

This fun debut from Brooke Abrams promises so many great moments. If you are looking for a good lighthearted book about family and friends, get this book. From  ex-husband to snarky drama you are going to love these characters. 

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The Way I Hate Him by Meghan Quinn

In The Way I Hate Him by Meghan Quinn, the main character is Hattie.

After failing to complete her master’s degree and experiencing a breakup with her boyfriend, Hattie decides to seek revenge on her ex by taking things from his boss, who is her brother’s rival. Her plan goes wrong when she’s caught by the boss, Hayes Farrow.

To avoid legal trouble, she’s forced to work for him, which leads to unexpected emotions between Hattie and Hayes. 

The story has got many layers. So it’s definelt a feel-good book with a compelling storyline. Also, there are many fun romance tropes involved. For example, it’s a rock star romance but also age-gap romance and Forced proximity trope. 

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One Day With You by Shari Low

In the charming village of Weirbridge, One Day with You follows an ordinary day with unexpected twists.

Tress is giving birth to her first child, while her husband Max faces a dilemma elsewhere. Max’s best friend, Noah, says goodbye to his wife, Mya, unaware of her secret.

Amidst them is Nancy, a recent widow, ready to meet her first love, Eddie. In just 24 hours, their lives collide with farewells and surprising encounters, leaving hearts uncertain about what lies ahead.

Author Shari Low is known for her brilliance in writing emotionally compelling novels with a touch of humor. This novel is no different. You are going to love its heartwarming and humorous plot so much.”

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There you have the best light hearted and fun book recommendations for 2023! Here are my top two choice from the list.

You can find more funny, light reads is these posts

35 Popular Chick Lit Books That You Won’t Be Able To Put Down

21 Best Steamy Beach Reads To Read Right Now

24 Unputdownable Books Guaranteed To Help You Start A Reading Habit

21 Best Thriller Books With Shocking Plot Twists

29 Feel-Good Romatic Comedies