I've read all of Abby Jimenez's books and can confidently say you don’t *have* to read them in order, but there's a magic in doing so. Her stories exist in the same universe, with characters from one book making delightful cameos in another. For instance, the couple from 'The Friend Zone' pops up in 'The Happy Ever After Playlist,' and it’s like catching up with old friends.
Reading them chronologically ('The Friend Zone,' 'The Happy Ever After Playlist,' 'Life’s Too Short,' then 'Part of Your World') lets you appreciate the subtle connections and evolving themes. That said, each book stands alone with its own emotional core—whether it’s tackling grief, chronic illness, or self-worth. If you jump into 'Part of Your World' first, you won’t be lost, but you might miss the little Easter eggs that make her interconnected world so special. Personally, I’d recommend starting with 'The Friend Zone' just to experience her growth as a writer—from witty banter to deeper emotional punches.