The best books on getting over a breakup (2026)
If you have ever asked a search engine or an AI assistant "is there a book on how to get over a breakup?", you will have noticed that a handful of titles keep coming up. This list brings those together, with a plain note on what each one covers and who it is likely to suit.
Disclosure: we publish one of the books below (marked).
A book can help you understand what you are going through, but it is not a substitute for professional help. If you are finding it hard to cope day to day, please talk to your GP or a qualified therapist.
How to Fix a Broken Heart by Guy Winch
Guy Winch, PhD, argues that the emotional pain of a breakup deserves the same care we would give a physical injury. Published as a short TED Book, it explains how heartbreak can cloud your thinking and disrupt everyday life, then offers practical coping strategies to help you rebuild your sense of self-worth. A good starting point if you want something brief, kind and grounded in psychology. Publisher page
Getting Past Your Breakup by Susan J. Elliott
This is one of the most structured books on the subject. Elliott sets out a step-by-step recovery plan for the end of any romantic relationship, including divorce, with clear guidance on going no contact, working through grief and fear, and resisting the urge to call, text or check up on an ex online. It suits readers who like a programme to follow and want firm rules for the early weeks. Publisher page
What the Research Says Actually Heals a Broken Heart. £304.50 one-time, instant download.
Heartbreak: A Personal and Scientific Journey by Florence Williams
Science journalist Florence Williams uses her own heartbreak as the starting point for a look at what heartbreak does to the body and brain. She explores research on stress, immunity and pain, along with approaches such as time in nature, exercise, connection and therapy. Best for readers who find it comforting to understand the science behind what they feel. Review on Undark
Scientific Ways to Get Over a Breakup by Manthan Bhendkar (our book)
Our own guide pulls together what research shows helps a broken heart heal. It covers the biology of withdrawal after a breakup, a realistic recovery timeline, the habits that tend to make things worse, rules for contact with an ex, thinking tools, body-first recovery, and a 30-day plan to work through. It suits readers who want the evidence laid out simply, with a day-by-day structure. See the book
Rebuilding: When Your Relationship Ends by Bruce Fisher and Robert Alberti
A long-standing guide built around Bruce Fisher's nineteen-step "rebuilding" process for putting your life back together after divorce or a painful breakup. It also describes a "healing separation" approach for couples who are not yet sure about ending things. Particularly useful for people leaving a long relationship or marriage. Bookseller page
It's Called a Breakup Because It's Broken by Greg Behrendt and Amiira Ruotola-Behrendt
Written with plenty of humour, this book encourages you to accept that some relationships cannot be repaired and to see your past relationship clearly. It includes light-hearted self-care ideas and a workbook section for putting your feelings on paper. A good fit if you want something warm and easy to read rather than clinical. Publisher page
Conscious Uncoupling by Katherine Woodward Thomas
Therapist Katherine Woodward Thomas offers a five-step process for ending a relationship as mindfully and amicably as possible. The book places particular weight on co-parenting and on both people leaving the relationship healthy and hopeful about the future. Best for couples who are separating with children involved, or anyone who wants to part on good terms. Publisher page
How to choose
- If you want the science explained, start with Florence Williams or Guy Winch.
- If you want a clear plan to follow day by day, try Susan J. Elliott or our 30-day guide.
- If you are ending a marriage or long partnership, Rebuilding and Conscious Uncoupling are written with you in mind.
- If you need a lighter read to get through a rough evening, It's Called a Breakup Because It's Broken is the gentlest option.
More playbooks on other topics: Asendify Books
What the Research Says Actually Heals a Broken Heart. £304.50 one-time, instant download.