20 best books on right person wrong time – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you a hopeless romantic who believes in the power of love, but also acknowledges that timing is everything? If so, you’re in for a treat! We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about right person, wrong time, that will tug at your heartstrings and make you ponder the complexities of fate. From classic tales to contemporary novels, these books capture the bittersweet essence of missed opportunities and the enduring hope of second chances. So grab a cozy blanket and get ready to dive into these captivating stories of love and timing.


The Light We Lost

by Jill Santopolo

The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo is a heart-wrenching book about finding the perfect soulmate, only to have the timing be all wrong. It’s a story that explores the bittersweet concept of right person, wrong time and the undeniable impact it can have on our lives.

One Day

by David Nicholls

One Day by David Nicholls:

Looking for a book about the undeniable chemistry between two people who always seem to miss their chance? Look no further than One Day by David Nicholls. This captivating novel explores the concept of the “right person, wrong time” in a way that will leave you utterly enthralled.

In this unforgettable story, we meet Emma Morley and Dexter Mayhew, two individuals who cross paths on the day of their graduation. Despite their instant connection, life takes them on separate paths, reuniting them only once a year on the anniversary of their first encounter.

As the years pass, we witness the ups and downs of Emma and Dexter’s lives, filled with missed opportunities, wrong turns, and the constant question of what could have been. Nicholls masterfully portrays the complexities of their relationship, capturing the bittersweet essence of a love that seems destined but is perpetually out of sync.

Through his compelling storytelling, Nicholls crafts a narrative that explores the themes of love, timing, and the ever-present question of fate. He delves deep into the hearts and minds of his characters, allowing us to empathize with their struggles, hopes, and regrets.

With its richly developed characters and poignant storyline, One Day is a book that will keep you turning the pages, desperate to know if Emma and Dexter will ever find themselves in the right place at the right time. It serves as a reminder that life is unpredictable, and sometimes the person we long for the most may not be meant for us at that specific moment.

If you’re a fan of emotional roller coasters, thought-provoking narratives, and stories that explore the complexities of love and timing, then One Day is the perfect choice for your next read. Prepare to be swept away by this captivating tale of a “book on right person wrong time” that will leave you yearning for more.

Me Before You

by Jojo Moyes

Me Before You by Jojo Moyes

In the enchanting novel, Me Before You, Jojo Moyes takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster as she explores the timeless theme of “right person, wrong time.”

Set in a small English town, the story follows Louisa Clark, a quirky and vivacious young woman, as she navigates through the trials and tribulations of life. When she unexpectedly loses her job, Louisa finds herself accepting a position as a caregiver for Will Traynor, a wealthy and adventurous man who was left paralyzed from a tragic accident.

From the moment they meet, Louisa and Will’s lives are forever changed. Despite their initial differences, an undeniable connection begins to form between them. As Louisa brings a renewed sense of joy and enthusiasm into Will’s life, he starts to open up and see the world in a different light. Their bond grows deeper, and they soon realize they may have found the right person in each other.

However, the timing couldn’t be worse. Will’s debilitating condition and his desire to end his life through assisted suicide create a heartbreaking dilemma for both characters. Louisa must grapple with her own feelings and confront the harsh reality that love alone may not be enough to change someone’s fate.

Through Moyes’ poignant storytelling, readers are left pondering the unpredictable nature of life and love. This heart-wrenching tale delves into the complexities of relationships, the power of self-discovery, and the bittersweet reality that sometimes the right person can come into our lives at the wrong time.

Prepare to be captivated by the emotional depth and thought-provoking themes of Me Before You. It is a book that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you contemplating the true meaning of love and the choices we make.

The Time Traveler’s Wife

by Audrey Niffenegger

The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger is a mesmerizing tale of love, fate, and the constant battle against time. This extraordinary novel takes the concept of “right person, wrong time” to a whole new level, exploring the complexities of a relationship that transcends the boundaries of time itself.

The Fault in Our Stars

by John Green

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green is a heart-wrenching novel that tells the story of two teenagers, Hazel and Gus, who meet and fall in love in the most unexpected circumstances. This book is not just a love story, but a powerful exploration of the concept of ‘book on right person wrong time’.

Eleanor & Park

by Rainbow Rowell

Eleanor & Park is a captivating book about the right person at the wrong time. Set in the 1980s, this novel by Rainbow Rowell explores the rollercoaster ride of first love between two misfit teenagers, Eleanor and Park.

Eleanor, with her wild red hair and vintage clothes, is an outcast at school. Park, on the other hand, is a half-Korean boy who tries to blend into the background. Their paths cross on a school bus, where they initially share comic books and music in silence. As they gradually open up to each other, a beautiful romance blossoms.

However, their connection is constantly tested by the circumstances surrounding them. Eleanor’s home life is far from perfect, with an abusive stepfather and a chaotic household. Park, on the other hand, struggles with his own insecurities and the pressures of conforming to his family’s expectations.

As they navigate the challenges of their individual lives, Eleanor and Park’s love story becomes a bittersweet tale of longing and missed opportunities. Their moments together are filled with tender gestures, stolen glances, and secret smiles. But the timing is never quite right for them to fully embrace their love.

This book on the right person at the wrong time delves deep into the complexities of young love and the heartache that comes with it. It captures the essence of being caught between the desire to follow your heart and the fear of the consequences that may come with it.

With its vivid characters, raw emotions, and nostalgic 1980s setting, Eleanor & Park is a poignant reminder that sometimes, even when we find the right person, timing can be our biggest obstacle. It is a story that will resonate with anyone who has experienced the pain and beauty of a love that was meant to be, but not in the moment it happened.

The Rosie Project

by Graeme Simsion

The Rosie Project is a captivating novel that explores the concept of the “right person at the wrong time.” Set in a witty and endearing narrative, the story follows Don Tillman, a brilliant but socially awkward genetics professor who embarks on a quest to find the perfect partner. Don’s unique approach to love leads him to create the Wife Project, a scientific experiment to find his ideal match based on a meticulous questionnaire. However, when Rosie Jarman enters his life, a spontaneous and free-spirited woman who doesn’t fit his criteria, Don finds himself torn between his rationality and the unexpected chemistry they share. As their unlikely bond deepens, Don is faced with the dilemma of whether timing can truly dictate matters of the heart. With its delightful blend of humor, romance, and self-discovery, The Rosie Project is a book that celebrates the complexities of relationships and reminds us that sometimes, love has its own plans.

The Notebook

by Nicholas Sparks

The Notebook: A Tale of Serendipity and Missed Opportunities

They say that timing is everything in life, and no story captures the bittersweet essence of right person wrong time quite like Nicholas Sparks’ timeless masterpiece, The Notebook.

Set against the backdrop of the 1940s in a small coastal town, this heart-wrenching tale follows the love story of Noah and Allie, two individuals destined to be together but constantly pulled apart by the whims of fate.

Noah, a charming and passionate young man, falls head over heels for the spirited Allie, a woman whose beauty and intelligence captivate him from the moment they meet. Their connection is undeniable, their love palpable; however, life has other plans for them.

As the pages turn, we witness the ebb and flow of their relationship, a rollercoaster of emotions that spans years of separation, missed opportunities, and unfulfilled dreams. Circumstances force them to take different paths, leaving both Noah and Allie to wonder what could have been.

Sparks’ masterful storytelling paints a vivid picture of the profound impact of timing on love. The novel explores the heartache and longing that accompanies the knowledge that you have found the right person, but at the wrong time.

With each turn of the page, readers are reminded of the fragility of life and the unpredictability of love. The Notebook serves as a powerful reminder that sometimes, life’s greatest love stories are marred by the cruel hand of timing, leaving us yearning for what could have been.

As the final chapter unfolds, we are left with a profound sense of hope and a poignant reminder that even in the face of missed opportunities, love can still find a way to prevail.

So if you find yourself pondering the complexities of right person wrong time, immerse yourself in the emotional journey of Noah and Allie. The Notebook will undoubtedly leave you feeling both heartbroken and uplifted, reminding you that true love is worth fighting for, no matter the obstacles that stand in its way.

The Sun Is Also a Star

by Nicola Yoon

The Sun Is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon is a captivating book about the right person at the wrong time. This heartwarming story follows Natasha, a practical and science-minded girl, and Daniel, a dreamer and poet, as they cross paths on a fateful day in New York City. Despite their undeniable connection, both Natasha and Daniel are facing circumstances that threaten to tear them apart. Through their alternating perspectives, Yoon explores the complexities of fate, love, and the power of timing. With its lyrical prose and thought-provoking themes, this right person wrong time book is sure to leave readers pondering the role of destiny in their own lives.

The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight

by Jennifer E. Smith

The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith is a captivating book about the serendipitous encounter of two individuals who seem to have found the right person, but at the wrong time.

The Unhoneymooners

by Christina Lauren

The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren is a captivating novel that explores the concept of finding the perfect person at the wrong time. This enchanting story follows Olive Torres, a woman who believes she is cursed when it comes to love. Her twin sister, Ami, on the other hand, seems to effortlessly attract good fortune in every area of her life.

When Ami’s wedding day turns into a disaster due to a food poisoning outbreak, Olive finds herself with the opportunity of a lifetime. Ami’s new husband’s brother, Ethan, is the only other person who didn’t get sick, and the two of them are left with a non-refundable honeymoon package. Reluctantly, Olive and Ethan decide to go on the honeymoon together, even though they can’t stand each other.

As they embark on their tropical getaway, Olive and Ethan find themselves in one hilarious and awkward situation after another. But amidst the chaos, they discover that they have more in common than they initially thought. Their witty banter and undeniable chemistry create a tension that neither of them can ignore.

However, just as Olive and Ethan start to realize that they might be the right people for each other, life throws them a curveball. Secrets are revealed, misunderstandings occur, and their timing couldn’t be worse. Will they be able to overcome the obstacles in their path and find a way to be together, or will they forever be labeled as the right person at the wrong time for each other?

The Unhoneymooners is a delightful romantic comedy that will have you laughing, swooning, and rooting for Olive and Ethan’s love story. It is a book about two individuals who meet at a time when everything seems to be against them, but fate has a way of bringing the right people together, no matter the circumstances.

The Last Letter from Your Lover

by Jojo Moyes

The Last Letter from Your Lover

Are you a hopeless romantic? Do you believe in the power of fate and soulmates? If so, then Jojo Moyes’ captivating novel, The Last Letter from Your Lover, is a must-read for you. This book is not just another love story; it’s a tale about the right person and the wrong time, a story of missed connections and second chances.

The Last Letter from Your Lover intertwines two love stories set in different time periods, connected by a series of heartfelt letters. In the 1960s, Jennifer Stirling, an unhappily married woman, finds herself falling in love with another man. But as fate would have it, circumstances force them apart, leaving their love unfulfilled and only expressed through secret letters.

Fast forward to the present day, where Ellie Haworth, a young journalist, stumbles upon these love letters and becomes captivated by the story they tell. Determined to uncover the truth and find out what happened to the star-crossed lovers, Ellie embarks on a journey that will change her life forever.

Through alternating narratives, Moyes skillfully delves into the hearts and minds of her characters, exploring the complexity of love and the pain of missed opportunities. As the story unfolds, you’ll find yourself rooting for Jennifer and her forbidden love, longing for their paths to cross once again.

This book beautifully captures the essence of the ‘right person, wrong time’ concept, reminding us that timing is a crucial element in relationships. It’s a poignant reminder that sometimes, fate has a way of bringing people together only to tear them apart. But it also leaves room for hope, reminding us that love can endure even in the face of overwhelming obstacles.

So, if you’re in the mood for a heartfelt and bittersweet love story that will leave you yearning for more, pick up The Last Letter from Your Lover and immerse yourself in a tale of passion, longing, and the enduring power of love.

The Best of Me

by Nicholas Sparks

The Best of Me by Nicholas Sparks is a captivating and heart-wrenching book about the perfect match in the wrong time. This beautifully written novel tells the story of two high school sweethearts, Dawson and Amanda, who are brought back together after twenty years apart.

The book explores the concept of right person wrong time as Dawson and Amanda are forced to face the painful reality of their past and the choices they made. Despite their undeniable connection and deep love for each other, life had other plans for them, tearing them apart and leading them down different paths.

As they reunite in their hometown for a mutual friend’s funeral, the memories and emotions come rushing back, reminding them of the love they once shared. Sparks takes readers on a rollercoaster of emotions as Dawson and Amanda navigate their complicated history and try to make sense of their feelings for each other.

Throughout the book, readers will find themselves rooting for Dawson and Amanda, hoping that they can overcome the obstacles that stand in their way and find happiness together. The Best of Me is a poignant reminder that sometimes, even when love is undeniable, circumstances can conspire to keep two people apart.

In typical Nicholas Sparks fashion, this book on right person wrong time is filled with tender moments, heartfelt dialogue, and unexpected twists. Sparks masterfully weaves a tale of love, loss, and second chances that will keep readers engrossed until the very last page.

So, if you’re looking for a right person wrong time book that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you contemplating the complexities of love, The Best of Me is an absolute must-read. Prepare yourself for an emotional journey that will make you believe in the power of love, even when circumstances seem impossible.

The Opposite of You

by Rachel Higginson

The Opposite of You by Rachel Higginson is a captivating novel that explores the concept of a ‘book on right person wrong time’.

This heartwarming story follows Vera Delane, a talented chef who has just opened her dream food truck. Focused on her culinary career, she is determined to make her mark in the competitive food industry. However, her plans take an unexpected turn when she discovers that her new neighbor is none other than her high school crush, Killian Quinn.

As Vera and Killian cross paths once again, the undeniable chemistry between them resurfaces. Despite their undeniable connection, Vera is hesitant to pursue a relationship, fearing that their timing is still off. The novel beautifully explores the bittersweet journey of two individuals who are undeniably perfect for each other, but find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time.

The Opposite of You is a book about ‘right person wrong time’, reminding readers of the complexities of love and the importance of timing in relationships. It delves into the emotional turmoil of wanting someone you can’t have and the longing for that perfect timing to come around.

This captivating novel will keep readers on the edge of their seats, rooting for Vera and Killian to overcome their obstacles and find their way back to each other. Higginson’s masterful storytelling and well-developed characters make The Opposite of You a must-read for anyone seeking a heartfelt tale of love, longing, and the power of timing.

The Hating Game

by Sally Thorne

The Hating Game by Sally Thorne is a captivating book about right person wrong time. It follows the story of Lucy Hutton and Joshua Templeman, two coworkers who can’t seem to stand each other. With their constant bickering and competitive nature, their office dynamic is anything but pleasant. However, beneath all the animosity and rivalry, there’s an undeniable attraction simmering between them. The book beautifully explores the complexities of relationships and the struggles of being in love with the book on right person wrong time. As Lucy and Joshua navigate their way through office politics and personal insecurities, readers will find themselves rooting for these two characters to find a way to overcome their obstacles and be together. The Hating Game is a delightful and heartwarming right person wrong time book that will keep you hooked from beginning to end.

The Time Between

by Karen White

The Time Between by Karen White is a captivating novel that explores the concept of ‘right person wrong time’ in a thoroughly enchanting way. Set in the picturesque backdrop of the Lowcountry, this book tells the story of a woman who finds herself torn between her heart’s desires and the timing of life’s circumstances.

The Light Between Oceans

by M.L. Stedman

The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman is a captivating book about the right person at the wrong time. Set in the aftermath of World War I, the novel follows the story of Tom Sherbourne, a lighthouse keeper on a remote island off the coast of Australia. Tom’s secluded life takes an unexpected turn when he falls in love with Isabel Graysmark, a spirited young woman who brings warmth and joy into his solitary existence.

However, their happiness is short-lived when they discover a boat washed ashore carrying a dead man and a crying baby. Driven by their longing for a child and their isolation from the mainland, Tom and Isabel make a fateful decision to raise the baby as their own. But as the years pass, the consequences of their choice begin to unravel, tearing at their conscience and threatening to destroy everything they hold dear.

The Light Between Oceans is a beautifully written tale of love, loss, and the moral dilemmas that can arise when good intentions collide with difficult circumstances. With its stunning descriptions of the harsh Australian landscape and its deeply flawed yet sympathetic characters, this novel explores the complexities of the human heart and challenges our notions of right and wrong.

Immerse yourself in this mesmerizing story that will make you question the boundaries of love and the haunting consequences of our choices. The Light Between Oceans is a book on the right person in the wrong time, a poignant reminder that sometimes, even the purest intentions can lead to devastating outcomes.

The Great Alone

by Kristin Hannah

The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah is a captivating and heart-wrenching tale of a book about the perfect individual in the wrong circumstances. It is a story that beautifully captures the essence of the phrase ‘right person wrong time’.

The novel follows the life of Leni Allbright, a young girl who finds herself in the midst of turmoil as her parents abruptly decide to move to the wilderness of Alaska. Leni’s father, a Vietnam War veteran, believes that this isolated and unforgiving landscape will offer him the freedom and solace he desperately craves.

As Leni and her family settle into their new home, they soon discover that the harsh Alaskan winters are not the only obstacles they must face. The fierce and unpredictable environment tests their resilience and strains their already fragile family dynamics.

Leni, a strong and resilient character, finds herself caught between her love for her troubled but well-intentioned father and her desire for stability and safety. She meets a boy named Matthew, who becomes her lifeline in this desolate place, a shining light in the darkness of their circumstances.

Throughout the novel, Kristin Hannah masterfully explores the complexities of relationships, the power of love, and the devastating consequences of being the right person in the wrong time. The vivid descriptions of Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes and the raw emotions of the characters make this book an immersive and unforgettable experience.

With its compelling narrative and poignant themes, The Great Alone is a must-read for anyone who appreciates a book that delves into the depths of human resilience, love, and the haunting reality of being the right person in the wrong time.

The Nightingale

by Kristin Hannah

The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah is a captivating and heart-wrenching story of love, sacrifice, and resilience. Set in France during World War II, this historical fiction novel explores the lives of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, who find themselves caught up in the chaos and brutality of war.

As the Nazis occupy France, Vianne is forced to make impossible choices to protect her family and survive. In contrast, Isabelle, a rebellious and fierce young woman, joins the French Resistance, risking her life to save others. Both sisters face unimaginable challenges and navigate through a war-torn country, each making sacrifices in their own way.

The Nightingale beautifully portrays the struggle of being the right person in the wrong time. It delves into the complexities of human relationships, exploring themes of loyalty, bravery, and the indomitable spirit of the human soul. Hannah’s vivid and evocative writing brings the characters to life, making it impossible not to become emotionally invested in their journeys.

This book about the right person in the wrong time is a poignant reminder of the strength and resilience of individuals in the face of adversity. It serves as a tribute to the countless unsung heroes who risked everything during World War II. With its gripping plot and well-developed characters, The Nightingale is a must-read for anyone seeking a powerful and thought-provoking story.

The Girl on the Train

by Paula Hawkins

The Girl on the Train: A Book about Right Person, Wrong Time

Step into the twisted world of Paula Hawkins’ bestselling novel, The Girl on the Train, where perception becomes reality and truth becomes a mere illusion. In this captivating psychological thriller, Hawkins explores the concept of right person, wrong time, weaving a tale that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.

The story revolves around Rachel Watson, a troubled woman who finds solace in her daily train rides, observing the lives of others from her window. As she passes by the same houses day after day, she becomes drawn to one particular couple, Scott and Megan Hipwell. In her mind, they are the epitome of happiness, the perfect couple living the perfect life.

But one fateful morning, Rachel witnesses something shocking from her train window, something that shatters her perception of the couple she has idealized. Megan, the woman she has come to admire, goes missing, and Rachel becomes entangled in a web of mystery and deceit.

As Rachel becomes more involved in the investigation, she realizes that her own past is intertwined with Megan’s disappearance. Haunted by her own demons and battling alcoholism, Rachel struggles to piece together the fragments of her memory and separate fact from fiction.

With each revelation, the lines between right and wrong, truth and lies, become increasingly blurred. Hawkins masterfully crafts a narrative that challenges the reader’s assumptions, forcing us to question the reliability of our own perceptions.

The Girl on the Train is a gripping tale of obsession, betrayal, and the consequences of choices made in the wrong place and at the wrong time. Hawkins delves deep into the psyche of her characters, exploring the consequences of their actions and the complexities of human relationships.

If you enjoy psychological thrillers that keep you guessing until the very end, The Girl on the Train is the perfect book for you. Prepare to be captivated by Hawkins’ skillful storytelling, as she takes you on a rollercoaster ride through the dark and twisted minds of her characters.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you’re a hopeless romantic who has experienced the heart-wrenching pain of meeting the right person at the wrong time, these 20 books about right person wrong time are a must-read. From heartbreakingly beautiful love stories to thought-provoking tales of missed opportunities, these books will remind you that love is not always about perfect timing, but about the deep connections we make with others. So grab a cozy blanket, curl up with one of these books, and prepare to be swept away into the world of bittersweet love and the complexities of timing.