12 Best Young Adult Romance Novels to Read in 2025
Looking for the best young adult romance novels? We’ve gathered our favorites, full of heart, laughter, first loves, and unforgettable characters.
Finding the perfect young adult romance novels can feel like picking your favorite snack at a movie theater—there’s just too many good choices! We’ve sorted through heaps of teen heartbreak, first kisses, and awkward love triangles to bring you a list that’s got something for everyone. When picking our top young adult romance novels, we looked for stories that made us giggle, cry, and root for the awkward couple, all while keeping things fresh and fun. Whether you want swoony moments or awkward laughter, this list has you covered. Grab your tissues and let’s get to the good stuff!
On this list:
12 To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny Han
We picked this funny and sweet tale cause nothing says young adult romance novels like accidental love letters causing chaos. Plus, who hasn’t worried their secret crush list might get out? Just us? Okay.
11 Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell
This one is like a mixtape from your first crush: awkward, heartfelt, and slightly weird. Rowell captures shaky, beautiful young love, and we laughed, then sniffled, then ate cookies.
10 The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
A must for any young adult romance novels list. We read it and sobbed (ugly cry, seriously). This one is moving and honest, but also funny. Plus, it teaches you to never bring onions near your eyes.
9 Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins
Who doesn’t want romance under Paris lights? This book made us crave croissants and text our old high school crushes. Beware: may cause instant wanderlust and slight embarrassment.
8 Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli
Funny, sweet, and packed with secrets. We rooted so hard for Simon we nearly pulled a muscle. It’s a coming-out story and a love story, with a strong message and great snacks.
7 They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera
Don’t let the title scare you. This book is a wild, heartfelt ride about love, friendship, and living for the moment. We stayed up way too late reading it.
6 Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon
Romance with a twist: the main character is allergic to the world. Our group argued about the ending for an hour. Yoon’s story keeps you turning pages—and questioning your air filter.
5 If I’m Being Honest by Emily Wibberley & Austin Siegemund-Broka
A modern ‘Taming of the Shrew’ set in high school. Our group loved the clever banter, but wished we had half the confidence of the main character.
4 The Sun Is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon
One day, two teens, lots of feelings. We spent hours arguing about fate after reading this one. The writing is clean, the romance is intense, and it’s so easy to root for both leads.
3 A Pho Love Story by Loan Le
Food, family drama, and teen romance? Yes, please. Our group got hungry just reading it—do not attempt this book without snacks nearby. A unique take on young adult romance novels.
2 Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
Sparkly vampires! Our group still argues about Team Edward vs. Team Jacob (hint: the correct answer is pizza). It’s dramatic and cheesy but a staple for young adult romance novels lovers.
1 Heartstopper: Volume One by Alice Oseman
We picked this as our top pick because it’s a graphic novel that blends teen romance, friendship, and coming out with heart and humor. The art is lovely, and the characters feel real—like someone you could sit with at lunch. It’s gentle, sweet, and full of awkward moments that remind us of our own teen years. Plus, it’s easy for even reluctant readers to finish, which kept our whole group in the game. The mix of text and art makes it stand out in a sea of young adult romance novels. If you want a book where you root for love, laugh a little, and feel warm and fuzzy, this is the one. We’d lend it to a friend—if we weren’t reading it again ourselves.
