There are two kinds of people in the world: those who read YA books and those who are missing out on the best literary experiences of their lives. If you’re here, I’m assuming you’re part of the superior category. And if not? Well, I’m about to give you a list of books that will make you reconsider your entire reading existence.
From heart-wrenching romances to fast-paced mysteries, YA books do something that few other genres can—they take you on a ride and make you feel everything. The best part about YA books is that anyone can read it. Whether you're a tween just starting your reading journey, a teenager well-versed in books, or even an adult craving that youthful energy, YA is for you. Young Adult (YA) books are typically written for readers between the ages of 12 and 18, but their themes—such as self-discovery, love, friendship, and growing up—are universal.
The romance in YA is always age-appropriate, capturing all the sweetness and intensity of young love without going into uncomfortable territory. These books are shorter, so you'll never have to suffer reading three pages about how beautiful the sunset looked.
Let us slide into your dms 🥰
Get notified of top trending articles like this one every week! (we won't spam you)Once Upon a Broken Heart Trilogy by Stephanie Garber
I don’t care what anyone says—this trilogy owns the YA fantasy romance genre. If you love whimsical settings, morally ambiguous love interests, and plot twists that make you want to throw your book across the room, then congratulations, you’ve found your next obsession.
Image Credit: Liana Mikah on Unsplash
Once Upon a Broken Heart follows Evangeline Fox, a character whose naivety is as endearing as it is heartbreaking. And then there's Jacks—a dark and charming character who will haunt you long after you finish the last page. It's been well over a year since I've read this book and I've thought about it every day since.
This trilogy is a perfect mix of breathtaking but not overly complicated world-building and a slow burn that will make you burn. It has everything a series should have: fantasy, mystery, and romance.
Why you should read it:
1. The enchanting settings and magical dresses will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook (or like a princess yourself).
2. Jacks is the ultimate morally gray, charming, infuriating love interest. You’ll love him even when you shouldn’t.
3. It’s not just romance—it’s fate, heartbreak, and magic all tangled together in the most addictive way.
Once Upon a Broken Heart — Spoiler Free Review
Take the Quiz: Which Literary Fiction Should You Read Next?
Jump into the world of literary fiction with the one of these novels based on your existing favourites.
I Hope This Doesn’t Find You by Ann Liang
Enemies-to-lovers? Check. Academic rivals?
Check. A protagonist who accidentally sends her unsent draft emails (aka rants) to the people she never meant for them to reach? Absolutely, check. Ann Liang has a way of blending humor with emotional depth that makes this book an irresistible read. The story follows an ambitious girl trying to navigate her intense academic life, only to end up unintentionally airing her frustrations in the most awkward way possible. The mix of academic competition, personal growth, and romance makes this book the perfect blend of humor and heart.
Image Credit: Photo by Andy Barbour on Pexels
Why you should read it:
1. It’s a hilariously relatable academic rivals-to-lovers story with so much tension.
2. The main character is ambitious and a people pleaser, making her incredibly real.
3. The romance is the perfect balance of banter and heartfelt moments (Julian Gong, the man you are.)
The Naturals by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Think Criminal Minds, but with teenagers. This series is what happens when you throw a bunch of genius-level kids into an FBI training program for profiling serial killers. The story follows a group of highly intelligent teens who are trained to analyze criminals, but things take a darker turn when they realize they might be up against someone much more dangerous than they expected.
The series is full of shocking twists and complex characters, each carrying their own trauma and secrets. Made me want to hug each and every one of them. It’s the perfect balance of psychological intrigue, thrilling suspense, and emotional connection that will keep you up long past bedtime.
Image Credit: David von Diemar on Unsplash
Why you should read it:
- If you love thrillers and crime shows, this series will have you at the edge of your seat, trying to solve the mystery before the characters do.
- The characters are all complex and have their own backstories that’ll make you care about them more than you expect.
- It’s a fast-paced, twist-filled ride that never lets up, with each book in the series increasing the stakes.
I Read The Entire Naturals Series, Here's Why You Should Read It Too
Eliza and Her Monsters by Francesca Zappia
Eliza is a shy, anxious teen who secretly creates a wildly popular webcomic under a pseudonym, but in real life, she struggles to connect with others. Like really struggles. This book captures the unique challenges that come with balancing an online persona with real-world identity.
Eliza’s journey is one of self-acceptance, finding her voice, and learning how to open up to the people around her. It's a powerful story for anyone who's ever felt like their digital life is the only place where they can truly be themselves.
Image Credit: Photo by Pixabay
Why you should read it:
1. It’s an honest and raw portrayal of mental health, especially for those who struggle with anxiety.
2. The exploration of online vs. real-life identity is deeply relatable in today’s world.
3. The romance is soft and genuine, built on understanding and connection rather than clichés.
This book? It understands introverts.
Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross
If you love lyrical writing, slow-burn romance, and the most beautiful letter exchanges, you need to read Divine Rivals. Set in a world where gods and mortals are at odds, the story follows two protagonists on opposite sides of a war. The world-building is magical and immersive, and the characters will break your heart in the best way.
The romance in this book is one of those slow burns that makes you ache with longing, and the emotional depth of the story will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page. Ross’s writing is poetic and heartbreaking in the most beautiful way possible.
Image Credit: Farrinni on Unsplash
Why you should read it:
- If you love a good slow-burn romance that builds over time, this one will have you holding your breath.
- The world-building is exceptional, creating a rich, layered universe that you’ll want to get lost in. It's not overly complicated, but it is beautiful.
- The letter exchanges between the characters will make you melt.
Divine Rivals, I can say without a doubt, is a high-quality book.
Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter
Some books feel like a warm hug, and this one is definitely one of them. A rom-com lover’s dream, Better Than the Movies is packed with every trope we adore—childhood enemies to friends-to-lovers, fake dating, and a chaotic yet lovable protagonist.
The best part? It’s self-aware. It knows it’s a cliché, and it leans into it in the best way possible.
The story follows a girl who, in order to get closer to the guy she has a crush on, ends up pretending to date her neighbour who she has always despised. It's fun, light-hearted, and full of swoon-worthy moments that’ll leave you smiling.
Image Credit: Ethan Hoover on Unsplash
Why you should read it:
1. It’s the perfect comfort read, packed with rom-com charm and humor.
2. The chemistry between the main characters is electric, making the romance feel real.
3. It’s a love letter to rom-coms, celebrating all the best tropes in the genre.
Conclusion
So there you have it—YA books that should be on everyone’s TBR. Whether you want to cry over fantasy romances, obsess over a murder mystery, or scream into your pillow over an enemies-to-lovers slow burn, this list has something for you. Now go forth and read.
