The Better than the Movies Series in Order

About the Better than the Movies series

Series Premise

The series follows a group of high school (and later college) friends navigating the messy, exhilarating journey of first love, self-discovery, and growing up, often inspired by romantic movie tropes but ultimately learning that real life—and real relationships—are more complicated and rewarding than any script. Each book centers on a different protagonist (or returning couple) as they confront crushes, misunderstandings, family changes, grief, or the transition to adulthood, finding that the person they least expect (often a longtime friend, neighbor, or rival) is exactly who they need, leading to tender, banter-filled romances that prove love is better when it's authentic rather than perfectly planned.

The series is designed to be read in any particular order, as each installment is largely standalone with its own complete romantic arc, unique couple, and satisfying resolution. While there is some loose interconnectedness through recurring characters, shared friend groups, and occasional cameos (especially in later books that revisit earlier pairs), there are no overarching plots or required prior knowledge that carry over; readers can jump in with whichever title appeals most—starting with the first for the origin story or picking a favorite trope—without missing essential context or spoilers.

Main Characters

The core revolves around a tight-knit group of teens (and later young adults) whose friendships and romances drive the series' heart. Central protagonists are typically smart, quirky, romantic high school seniors (or recent graduates) who are passionate about movies, music, or their dreams yet struggle with grief, insecurity, or figuring out who they are. Liz Buxbaum, the series' breakout heroine, is a hopeless romantic obsessed with classic rom-coms, using them as comfort after loss while learning that real love is messier and better than scripted perfection. Wes Bennett, her longtime neighbor and frenemy-turned-love-interest, is sarcastic, charming, and secretly caring, providing the perfect foil with his teasing humor and hidden depth. Supporting friends like Michael (the idealized crush), Bailey, Nick, Emilie, Charlie, and others form a lively ensemble—each with distinct personalities (the loyal bestie, the dramatic dreamer, the laid-back jokester)—that adds banter, support, and found-family warmth. Parents, siblings, and mentors round out the cast, bringing generational insight, occasional conflict, and emotional grounding.

Setting

The series is primarily set in a relatable, contemporary Midwestern American suburb (often evoking Omaha, Nebraska, or similar heartland towns), where high school hallways, cozy family homes, neighborhood backyards, and local hangouts like diners, parks, and movie theaters form the everyday backdrop. High school life is vividly captured—lockers, prom preparations, football games, graduation parties, and the chaos of senior year—while later books shift to college campuses, dorms, apartments, and city life as characters grow up. The settings feel authentic and lived-in: snowy winters for cozy indoor moments, summer nights for backyard stargazing or bonfires, and the small-town feel where neighbors know each other and secrets don't stay hidden long. This familiar, grounded environment contrasts beautifully with the cinematic daydreams of the protagonists, making the romance feel both ordinary and magical.

Tone & Themes

Painter's tone is playful, heartfelt, and unapologetically romantic, striking a perfect balance between laugh-out-loud humor, emotional depth, and swoony chemistry that keeps readers smiling and occasionally reaching for tissues. The stories brim with witty, snarky banter, self-aware nods to rom-com clichés, and over-the-top teen antics, while never shying away from real feelings—grief over lost parents, insecurity about fitting in, anxiety about the future, or the vulnerability of falling in love. Romantic tension builds slowly and satisfyingly, often with fake-dating schemes, enemies-to-lovers sparks, or friends-to-more moments that explode into heartfelt confessions and steamy (but age-appropriate) kisses. The overall vibe is joyful, nostalgic, and empowering—like binge-watching your favorite 90s rom-com with your best friend—offering pure escapism that celebrates being a little messy, a lot hopeful, and ultimately deserving of a love story that's better than the movies.

The Better than the Movies series shines as a joyful, addictive celebration of young love, friendship, and growing up in the spirit of classic rom-coms but with a fresh, heartfelt twist that makes every trope feel new and real. Lynn Painter delivers swoony, banter-filled romances that balance humor, grief, and hope, reminding readers that the best love stories are the ones that surprise us—messy, imperfect, and infinitely better than any movie script. Perfect for teens and adults alike who crave witty YA romance with emotional depth, nostalgic charm, and happily-ever-afters that linger, the series is pure escapism with heart—proving that sometimes the boy next door really is the leading man you've been waiting for.