YA Books You HAVE to Binge Read This Summer
Sun’s out, books out! Whether you’re poolside, road-tripping, or just curled up in your favorite reading nook, there’s no better time to devour some feel-good (and sometimes heart-crushing) YA reads. This summer’s vibe is all about swoony romance, messy friendships, family drama, and coming-of-age chaos. These are the books you won’t be able to stop thinking—or talking—about.
The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han
Romance / Coming-of-Age
If you somehow haven’t read this iconic summer romance, now is the time—especially with season three of the Amazon Prime show airing this week! Love triangles, beach houses, and that feeling of one summer changing everything—it’s a classic YA for a reason. The full trilogy spans multiple summers, but start with this one!
Rebel with a Donut by Chrissy Q. Martin
Contemporary Fiction / Romance
A rebellious teen. A small-town bakery. And a very unexpected love story. This debut title is full of heart, humor, and delicious donuts. It’s the kind of book that sneaks up on you with its charm and totally nails that messy, magical feeling of falling for someone when you least expect it.
My Life with the Walter Boys by Ali Novak
Contemporary Fiction / Drama / Romance
Imagine being the only girl in a house full of eleven boys (yes, eleven). This book is chaotic, funny, heartfelt, and totally swoon-worthy. If you’re into big family dynamics, slow-burn crushes, and emotional growth, this is a must-read. Read this, and it’s sequel, before season two of the Netflix show comes out in August.
Bonus: check out Megan Meade’s Guide to the McGowan Boys for a similar concept, but a slightly more mature take.
Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter
Contemporary Fiction / Romance / Enemies-to-Lovers
A romance-obsessed teen tries to win over her longtime crush—with help from her annoying next-door neighbor. What could possibly go wrong? This one is pure rom-com gold with all the cinematic moments you could want. Packed with hilarious banter and pop culture references, you have to read this before you watch ‘80s classics this summer.
A First Time for Everything by K.L. Walther
Contemporary Fiction / Coming-of-Age
This is peak rom-com energy with big heart, lovable characters, and a slow-burn romance that will have you rooting for Mads from the first page. When Mads goes on a series of first dates—some sweet, some awkward, and some hilariously awful—to find a date to her brother’s wedding, a whirlwind of bridesmaid chaos, family drama, and major feelings for someone she definitely shouldn’t be falling for ensue.
Tip: if you haven’t read The Summer of Broken Rules, read that one before this title!
A French Girl in New York by Anna Adams
Contemporary Fiction / Romance
Maude never expected her voice to go viral—or to end up at a prestigious New York music school. Cue the culture shock, big dreams, and a complicated romance with a moody pop star. This is your next indie love story obsession as it was originally self-published before Wattpad Books picked it up!
Picking Daisies on Sundays by Liana Cincotti
Contemporary Fiction / Romance / Second Chances
Prepare your heart. This one dives into grief, healing, and finding light in the most unexpected places. It’s lyrical and raw, perfect for readers who love books that make them cry and believe in hope again. Ideal for fans of emotionally powerful coming-of-age stories they can’t put down.
The Kissing Booth by Beth Reekles
Romance / Drama
You know it from Netflix, but the book is where it all started! Elle’s high school crush turns into something real when she ends up kissing her best friend’s older brother at a school fundraiser. It’s dramatic, romantic, and totally unputdownable. It’s even better than the movie!
So, what are you waiting for? Grab an iced coffee and get comfy to dive into these awesome reads.
