Are you ready to dive into captivating worlds filled with young love, heartwarming moments, and dramatic twists? Young Adult (YA) romance books have an undeniable charm that can whisk readers away on a roller coaster of emotions. Whether it’s first love, forbidden romance, or self-discovery amid relationship struggles, these stories resonate deeply with readers of all ages. In this list, we’ve compiled the top 10 YA romance books that promise to sweep you off your feet and keep you turning pages long into the night. Get ready for laughter, tears, and unforgettable characters as we explore these must-read gems!
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10. The Complete Summer I Turned Pretty Trilogy (Boxed Set): The Summer I Turned Pretty; It’s Not Summer Without You; We’ll Always Have Summer
$19.00 • 4.8 Stars • 12265 Reviews
The Complete Summer I Turned Pretty Trilogy (Boxed Set) is a captivating collection that brings together all three novels from the beloved series by Jenny Han, including ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty,’ ‘It’s Not Summer Without You,’ and ‘We’ll Always Have Summer.’ With a remarkable 4.8-star rating from over 12,265 reviews, this boxed set is a treasure for Young Adult romance enthusiasts. Key features include beautifully designed covers, engaging and relatable characters, and a compelling storyline that explores friendship, love, and the bittersweet nature of growing up. The benefits of this trilogy extend beyond mere entertainment—it delves deep into the complexities of first love and the emotional challenges of teenage life, making it both relatable and poignant for readers. The standout qualities of this set lie in its vivid descriptions and the author’s talent for weaving emotion into every page, creating a reading experience that resonates deeply. The main pros of this boxed set include its cohesive narrative and accessible writing style, which appeals to both young readers and the young-at-heart. However, some readers may find the pacing slow at times, particularly those who prefer fast-paced plots. Ideal for teens and young adults seeking a heartfelt journey of self-discovery and romance, this trilogy is also perfect for anyone looking to reminisce about their own youthful relationships.
9. Float
$6.88 • 4.4 Stars • 435 Reviews
Float by Rachel S. Hartman is a captivating YA romance that is perfect for anyone who loves heartfelt stories with relatable characters. This novel, now a major motion picture featuring Andrea Bang and Robbie Amell, takes readers on an emotional journey alongside Waverly Lyons, a young girl caught in the tumult of her parents’ divorce. As she transitions from the chilly confines of Fairbanks, Alaska, to the sun-soaked beaches of Holden, Florida, Waverly’s life is turned upside down. Key features include the exploration of personal growth, the challenges of adapting to a new environment, and the blossoming romance with Blake, the charming boy next door. Benefits of reading Float include experiencing the excitement of first love and friendship while navigating the complexities of family dynamics. With a stellar star rating of 4.4 based on 435 reviews and an accessible price of just $6.88, this book is a must-read for fans of Sarah Dessen and Jenny Han. Although some readers may find the pacing slow at times, the authentic character development and relatable themes make it worth the read. This book is best suited for young adults and teens looking for an engaging summer read that tackles themes of belonging, love, and the bittersweet nature of goodbyes.
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8. If He Had Been with Me
$7.27 • 4.2 Stars • 51056 Reviews
If He Had Been with Me is a captivating YA romance novel that has resonated with over one million readers, turning it into a viral sensation on BookTok. This #1 New York Times Bestseller and USA TODAY Bestseller offers an achingly authentic depiction of love and regret, making it a must-read for enthusiasts seeking to dive deep into complex emotional narratives similar to works by Colleen Hoover and Jenny Han. The story follows Autumn and Finn, childhood best friends whose paths diverge as they navigate high school relationships and social dynamics. The novel artfully explores themes of missed connections and what-ifs, pulling readers into Autumn’s internal struggle as she grapples with her feelings for Finn while maintaining her life with her boyfriend, Jamie. With a star rating of 4.2 on Amazon and over 51,000 reviews, it is clear that fans are captivated by this heart-wrenching tale. Priced at an affordable $7.27, this book is perfect for readers who enjoy unputdownable contemporary teen romances and are looking for heart-touching stories in their next great read.
Pros: Engaging and relatable characters, rich emotional depth, and a poignant storyline that leaves a lasting impact.
Cons: Some readers may find the pacing slow in parts, and the emotional themes might be heavier than expected for casual readers.
This book is ideally suited for young adults and adults who appreciate deep emotion in their novels, as well as anyone looking to reminisce about the complexities of first love and friendship.
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7. If Only I Had Told Her
$7.46 • 4.3 Stars • 9808 Reviews
‘If Only I Had Told Her’ is a poignant young adult romance that delves into the intricacies of love, loss, and the consequences of missed opportunities. This novel, which boasts a solid 4.3-star rating from nearly 10,000 reviews, captures the hearts of readers with its relatable characters and heart-wrenching storyline. Perfect for teenagers and young adults navigating their own romantic experiences, it beautifully explores the theme of unspoken feelings and the regret that can accompany silence. The engaging writing style hooks readers from the first page, while its emotional depth provides both thrills and chills. Priced at an affordable $7.46, this book is a must-add to any YA romance collection. Pros include its relatable storyline, character development, and ability to resonate emotionally, while the con might be that some readers find the pacing a bit slow in parts. Overall, it’s best suited for readers who enjoy a reflective love story that encourages them to express their feelings before it’s too late.
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6. The Do-Over
$7.36 • 4.2 Stars • 4737 Reviews
‘The Do-Over’ by Lynn Painter is a heartwarming and humorous YA romance that centers on a relatable protagonist, who gets a second chance at a day that went all wrong. With a star rating of 4.2 based on 4,737 reviews, this novel has quickly become a favorite among teen readers. The standout qualities of this book include its clever writing, engaging storyline, and well-developed characters that resonate with the challenges of youth, making it both entertaining and insightful. Priced at just $7.36, it offers great value for readers seeking a light yet emotional read. The book’s main benefits include its exploration of themes such as self-discovery, friendship, and the importance of second chances, making it ideal for fans of coming-of-age stories. Pros of ‘The Do-Over’ include its relatable humor and engaging plot twists, while a noted con might be its predictable romantic tropes. This book is best suited for young adults looking for a feel-good romance that also encourages personal growth and resilience.
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5. The Summer of Broken Rules
$6.65 • 4.2 Stars • 25589 Reviews
‘The Summer of Broken Rules’ by K.L. Randis is a captivating young adult romance that intertwines a coming-of-age story with family bonds, friendship, and summer adventures. With a commendable star rating of 4.2 from over 25,589 reviews, this book has resonated with readers seeking both laughter and tears. Set in a vibrant summer backdrop, the narrative follows the protagonist as she grapples with grief and the complexities of starting a new love. Key features of this book include relatable characters, a compelling storyline filled with twist and turns, and vivid depictions of summer escapades that will transport you to a world of youthful romance. The book’s standout quality lies in its ability to tackle serious themes, such as loss and healing, while wrapping them in a lighthearted romantic package. Pros include its engaging writing style and emotional depth, while cons may be its predictable romance tropes for some seasoned readers. Best suited for YA enthusiasts and readers looking for a heartfelt story that captures the essence of summer love and self-discovery, ‘The Summer of Broken Rules’ is a delightful addition to any bookshelf.
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4. Check & Mate
$9.63 • 4.3 Stars • 14320 Reviews
Dive into the captivating world of Check & Mate, a delightful YA romance that intertwines the complexity of chess with the electrifying tension of young love. This novel brilliantly captures the dynamic between two rival chess players whose fierce competition unexpectedly turns into a deep-seated attraction. With its engaging plot and well-developed characters, readers are taken on a thrilling journey of strategy, rivalry, and tender moments. The book boasts a solid 4.3-star rating from over 14,000 reviews, indicating its appeal among young adult readers. At a price point of just $9.63, it’s not only an affordable option but also a fantastic addition to any teen’s bookshelf. Ideal for lovers of chess and romance alike, Check & Mate stands out with its unique premise, emphasizing how love can flourish even in the most competitive environments. Pros include its relatable characters and witty dialogue, while some readers may find the pacing a bit slow in parts. This book is perfect for young adults craving a light-hearted yet meaningful story that explores the nuances of love and competition.
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3. A Thousand Boy Kisses (Boy Kisses, 1)
$7.37 • 4.5 Stars • 58910 Reviews
‘A Thousand Boy Kisses’ by Tillie Cole is a captivating young adult romance that beautifully captures the bittersweet essence of young love. With an impressive 4.5-star rating from nearly 60,000 reviews, it’s evident that this story has resonated deeply with readers. One of its standout qualities is the emotional depth Cole brings to her characters; the protagonist, Poppy, navigates the realities of love and loss, making it both a heartwarming and heartbreaking read. At a price of just $7.37, this book is not only affordable but also a treasure trove of heartfelt sentiments and poignant moments. The prose is lyrical and engaging, allowing readers to be fully immersed in Poppy’s journey. Pros include its relatable characters and powerful themes of love, grief, and resilience. However, some readers have noted that the pacing can be uneven at certain points. Ultimately, ‘A Thousand Boy Kisses’ is best suited for anyone who enjoys tear-jerking narratives about young love, particularly fans of contemporary romance and those who appreciate stories that tackle deeper emotional issues.
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2. The Upside of Falling
$9.59 • 4.3 Stars • 12735 Reviews
Dive into the enchanting world of young adult romance with ‘The Upside of Falling’ by Alex Light. This heartfelt novel features a captivating fake-dating storyline between Becca and Brett that explores what happens when pretend feelings start to feel all too real. With a solid star rating of 4.3 from over 12,735 reviews, this book showcases its appealing blend of humor and emotional depth, making it a perfect fit for fans of authors like Jennifer Dugan and Laura Taylor Namey. At just $9.59, it’s an affordable escape into a tale of second chances and unexpected love. Readers can expect vibrant, relatable characters and a witty narrative that keeps them engaged from start to finish. Pros include its engaging plot and well-developed character arcs, while one notable con may be its predictable elements typical of the genre. This novel is ideal for readers who enjoy romantic comedies and are looking for a feel-good story that captures the highs and lows of teenage love.
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1. Better Than the Movies
$6.13 • 4.5 Stars • 19182 Reviews
If you’re looking for a YA romance that beautifully blends humor, heart, and a touch of nostalgia, ‘Better Than the Movies’ by Lynn Painter is a must-read. This charming novel boasts an impressive 4.5-star rating from over 19,000 reviews, reflecting its popularity among young adult readers. Priced at only $6.13, it is not just an affordable option but also a delightful escape into the world of high school crushes and romantic misadventures. The plot follows the relatable protagonist, who embarks on a hilarious quest to win over her childhood friend, presented in a way that captures the essence of teen love and the complexities of friendships. Key features include witty dialogue, swoon-worthy moments, and a strong sense of character development that keeps readers turning the pages. This book is great for anyone who enjoys a light-hearted yet poignant exploration of first love and self-discovery but may not be suited for those seeking intense drama or darker themes. Pros include its engaging writing style and feel-good vibes, while a potential con is the familiar trope of unrequited love that some may find predictable. Overall, ‘Better Than the Movies’ is perfect for young adults and anyone young at heart searching for a sweet, entertaining read filled with laughter and romance.