Best New Ya Books

of Feb 2025

   In the realm of literature, young adult books, often abbreviated as YA books, are captivating stories designed to enthrall readers in their formative years. These compelling narratives explore themes and emotions that resonate with young adults, addressing their unique experiences and challenges as they navigate the complexities of adolescence and transition into adulthood. YA books delve into a diverse range of genres, including contemporary fiction, fantasy, mystery, and historical fiction, offering something for every reader's taste. With their ability to ignite imaginations and provide a sense of relatability, YA books are more than just stories—they are catalysts for growth, exploration, and self-discovery.

Dark and Shallow Lies

9
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Dark and Shallow Lies is a chilling supernatural thriller for fans of Natasha Preston, Karen McManus, and Rory Power. Set in La Cachette, Louisiana—the self-proclaimed Psychic Capital of the World�...�the story follows seventeen-year-old Grey, who is spending her summer in the small town. When Grey's best friend Elora Pellerin disappears, Grey begins to uncover the secrets that everyone in town is hiding—including her late mother's secrets. As Grey investigates further, she encounters a mysterious stranger with links to Elora and the town's bloody history. She soon realizes that La Cachette's past is far more present and dangerous than she ever imagined, and that nobody in the town can be trusted. With a murderer on the loose, Grey must uncover the truth before it's too late. Dark and Shallow Lies is a suspenseful and thrilling read that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. With its captivating setting, complex characters, and mysterious plot, this novel is sure to please fans of supernatural thrillers.

Lightlark (Book 1)

8.6
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Lightlark (Book 1) is an instant #1 National Bestseller and soon to be a major motion picture. Award-winning author Alex Aster has crafted a masterfully written, utterly gripping YA fantasy novel that... will captivate readers of all ages. Welcome to the Centennial. Every 100 years, the island of Lightlark appears to host the Centennial, a deadly game that only the rulers of six realms are invited to play. The invitation is a summons—a call to embrace victory and ruin, baubles and blood. The Centennial offers the six rulers one final chance to break the curses that have plagued their realms for centuries. Isla Crown is the young ruler of Wildling—a realm of temptresses cursed to kill anyone they fall in love with. They are feared and despised, and are counting on Isla to end their suffering by succeeding at the Centennial. To survive, Isla must lie, cheat, and betray…even as love complicates everything. Lightlark is an exciting, thrilling read filled with secrets, deception, romance, and twists worthy of the darkest thrillers. This book is a must-read for fans of legendary fantasy writers Marie Lu, Marissa Meyer, and Leigh Bardugo. Get ready to experience an unforgettable journey that will keep you guessing until the very end.

Out There: Into the Queer New Yonder

8.6
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Out There: Into the Queer New Yonder is an essential and beautifully written collection of seventeen original short stories set in the future from fantastic queer YA authors. This anthology immerses a...nd surprises with each turn of the page, offering readers a unique glimpse into a world full of possibilities. Explore new and familiar worlds where the human consciousness can be uploaded into a body on Mars, an alien helps a girl decide if she should tell her best friend how she feels, two teens get stuck in a time loop at a space station, people are forced to travel to the past or the future to escape the dying planet, and only a nonbinary person can translate the binary code of a machine that predicts the future. Everyone in the world vanishes except for two teen girls who are in love. Out There is the perfect conclusion to the critically acclaimed All Out and Out Now anthologies. This collection is sure to captivate readers with its original stories from Ugochi M. Agoawike, K. Ancrum, Kalynn Bayron, Z Brewer, Mason Deaver, Alechia Dow, Z.R. Ellor, Leah Johnson, Naomi Kanakia, Claire Kann, Alex London, Jim McCarthy, Abdi Nazemian, Emma K. Ohland, Adam Sass, Mato J. Steger, and Nita Tyndall. Get ready to be taken on a journey into the queer new yonder!

This Is Not a Personal Statement

8.6
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This Is Not a Personal Statement is a propulsive and poignant YA contemporary novel about Perla Perez, a sixteen year old high school senior who has worked her entire life to get into her dream colleg...e, Delmont University. After being rejected from the school, Perla forges her own acceptance letter and heads to Delmont for real. With no student ID and a guilty conscience, Perla must navigate her way through college life and evade campus security while gathering intel to reapply for spring semester. This Is Not a Personal Statement is perfect for fans of Mary H.K. Choi and is an incisive tale of acceptance, self-discovery, and the infinite possibilities that await when we embrace our imperfections. Perla's journey is a powerful reminder that sometimes our plans don't always work out the way we expect, and that it's okay to take risks and forge our own paths. This Is Not a Personal Statement is an inspiring and thought-provoking read that will leave readers reflecting on their own lives and the choices they make.

If He Had Been with Me

8.6
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If He Had Been with Me is the perfect read for fans of Colleen Hoover, Jenny Han, and You've Reached Sam. This New York Times Bestseller and BookTok Viral Sensation is an achingly authentic and raw po...rtrait of love, regret, and the life-altering impact of the relationships we hold closest to us. Autumn and Finn used to be inseparable, but something changed and now they do their best to ignore each other. Autumn has her boyfriend Jamie, and her close-knit group of friends, while Finn has become the boy everyone wants to be around. Despite this, Autumn can't help but feel a connection when they cross paths, and she wonders if things could have been different. Come August, things will change forever. As time passes, Autumn will be forced to confront how else life might have been different if they had never parted ways. This captivating and heartbreaking story will have readers hooked from the very first page, and is perfect for those looking for contemporary teen romance books, unputdownable and bingeworthy novels, complex emotional YA stories, and TikTok Books. If He Had Been with Me is a must-read for fans of Jenny Han meets Dear Even Hanson and Colleen Hover.

The Lunar Chronicles Boxed Set: Cinder, Scarlet, Cress, Fairest, Stars Above, Winter

9.6
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This boxed set of the New York Times-bestselling Lunar Chronicles series is an absolute must-have for fans of the series and those looking to explore its world for the first time. Prepare to be swept ...away by the unique blend of science fiction and classic fairy tales that this series offers. The set includes all six books in the series, starting with Cinder, which follows a teenage cyborg who must deal with a wicked stepmother, start a rebellion against the evil Queen Levana, and decide how she feels about a handsome prince. The other books in the set are Scarlet, Cress, Fairest: Levana’s Story, Stars Above (a collection of stories set in the Lunar Chronicles universe), and the epic conclusion, Winter. This series has been praised by Entertainment Weekly as a “mash up of fairy tales and science fiction” and The Wall Street Journal as “Prince Charming among the cyborgs.” With its unique blend of fantasy, science fiction, and romance, the Lunar Chronicles Boxed Set is a must-have for any fan of the series.

Dear Evan Hansen: THE NOVEL

9.4
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Dear Evan Hansen: THE NOVEL is an inspiring and groundbreaking book inspired by the hit Broadway show of the same name. Written by the show's creators, this bestselling novel is now available in paper...back. The story follows high school senior Evan Hansen, who is drawn into a family's grief over the loss of their son when a letter that was never meant to be seen by anyone finds its way to him. Evan is then given the chance to finally belong, but only if he sticks to a lie he never meant to tell - that the notoriously troubled Connor Murphy was his secret best friend. With the help of Connor's parents, Evan is welcomed into their home and given the chance to learn more about the enigmatic son he never knew. But as Evan gets pulled deeper into this swirl of emotions, he starts to question what he's doing and if it's really the right thing to do. This powerful coming-of-age story explores grief, authenticity, and the struggle to belong in an age of instant connectivity and profound isolation. Through Evan's journey, readers will learn the importance of being true to yourself and understanding that it's okay to not always have all the answers.

An Elephant in the Garden: Inspired by a True Story

9.4
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An Elephant in the Garden: Inspired by a True Story is a captivating story of the power of love, loyalty and friendship. This inspiring tale follows the story of Lizzie and Karl, whose mother is a zoo... keeper. When their city is threatened by bombs, the family must flee, but they cannot leave behind their beloved elephant Marlene. With the help of a Canadian navigator, Peter, the family embarks on a journey to safety, with Marlene in tow. Along the way, they face danger, but their faith in kindness and love proves to be their greatest weapon. Based on true events and inspired by Michael Morpurgo's admiration for elephants, this story celebrates the courage and resilience of an unlikely group of survivors. An Elephant in the Garden: Inspired by a True Story is an uplifting and heartwarming tale that will stay with readers long after the last page is turned.

New Moon: The Twilight Saga, Book 2

9.4
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New Moon: The Twilight Saga, Book 2 is the second installment in the wildly popular Twilight Saga series. It follows the story of Bella Swan and her vampire love, Edward Cullen, as they face new dange...rs in their relationship. Bella must come to terms with her love for Edward, while Edward must protect her from the dangers that come with it. The story is filled with romance, suspense, and supernatural elements. Stephenie Meyer does a wonderful job of creating an intense and passionate atmosphere. New Moon is full of unexpected twists and turns that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The book is an international best-seller and is well on its way to becoming a literary classic. Fans of the series will love the passionate romance and suspenseful plot of New Moon. It is a must-read for any fan of the Twilight Saga.

The Blessing Effect: A Single Act of Kindness Can Rewrite the Future

9.4
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The Blessing Effect: A Single Act of Kindness Can Rewrite the Future is a powerful and timely youth-fiction novel that encourages readers to embrace the supernatural power of prayer and kindness to br...ing about the change that our world needs today. Written by Robert Pozil and published in October 2020, this second edition of the book is the perfect back-to-school book or gift for parents and students in middle school, junior high, and high school. The story follows Zack Towers, a sophomore star-athlete who reaches out to Joel, the most troubled and volatile kid at North Valley High. But then the unexpected happens - a powerful angel appears to Zack just in time to provide supernatural insight and guidance. The angel equips Zack to be a “Blessing” to students in need of acceptance, forgiveness, healing, and love. But the question remains… will Joel and the others choose to receive the blessings that await? This action-packed novel inspires us to reach out to those in need of love, care, and inclusion. It demonstrates that a single act of kindness can have a ripple effect, and can literally rewrite the future. Packed with uplifting messages and powerful examples, the book encourages us to accept the challenge to be a blessing to others and change the world one soul at a time. The Blessing Effect is a must-read for anyone looking for a powerful story to inspire and motivate them to make a difference in the world. With its inspiring messages, uplifting examples, and supernatural power, this book is sure to be a hit with readers of all ages.

This Was Never About Basketball

9.2
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This Was Never About Basketball is a coming-of-age novel about seventeen-year-old high school basketball star Ezekiel “Zeke” Archer. Zeke has it all - a sweet jump shot, a full-ride scholarship to... a Midwestern basketball powerhouse, and a bright future. But when Zeke’s temper gets the better of him in the city championship, he is expelled from school, has to forfeit his scholarship, and is left to ponder his once-hopeful future. As Zeke finishes his final days in the California educational system’s version of purgatory, he makes an incredible discovery - the mysterious 7th Dimension, which brought basketball to Earth more than a century ago, has decided to take the game away for good - all because of the ugly event Zeke set into motion in his final game! In order to save basketball, Zeke embarks on the ultimate cross-country road trip. Along the way, Zeke must confront his unsettled past - including a father he’s not heard from in years and a brother fighting in a war half a world away - in order to set his life on the right path and rescue the game he loves. This Was Never About Basketball is an inspiring story of redemption and the power of friendship.

Darius the Great Is Not Okay

9.2
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Darius the Great Is Not Okay is an unforgettable debut novel by Adib Khorram. It tells the story of Darius Kellner, a Fractional Persian who is visiting Iran for the first time. Darius has never felt ...like he fits in, either in America or in Iran, and his clinical depression doesn't help matters. But on his trip to Iran, Darius meets Sohrab, the boy next door, and everything changes. They spend their days playing soccer, eating faludeh, and talking for hours on a secret rooftop overlooking the city's skyline. Sohrab calls Darius Darioush, the original Persian version of his name, and Darius has never felt more like himself than he does now that he's Darioush to Sohrab. Darius the Great Is Not Okay is a heartwarming and funny story about learning to accept and love yourself, as well as finding friendship in unexpected places. It is a must-read for anyone who has ever felt not good enough, but found someone who makes them feel so much better than okay.

Insurgent: Divergent, Book 2

9.2
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Insurgent: Divergent, Book 2 is a thrilling dystopian novel by New York Times best-selling author Veronica Roth. Set in a future world where everyone is divided into factions based on their personalit...y, the story follows Tris Prior as she navigates the turbulent political landscape. As unrest surges in the factions, Tris must continue to save those she loves while grappling with questions of grief and forgiveness, identity and loyalty, politics and love. Tris must face the consequences of her choices, and ultimately embrace her Divergence, even if she does not know what she may lose in doing so. Along the way, she discovers radical new discoveries and shifting relationships. Through her journey, readers will experience heartbreaks, romance, and powerful insights about human nature. Insurgent: Divergent, Book 2 is an intoxicating thrill ride of a story that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. With its hallmark twists, this book is sure to captivate and entertain.

Divergent

9.2
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Divergent is a thrilling dystopian novel by debut author Veronica Roth. Set in a futuristic Chicago, the story follows Beatrice Prior, a sixteen-year-old who must choose which of the five factions she... will devote her life to. Each faction is dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue – Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). Beatrice must make a difficult choice between staying with her family and being who she really is. Beatrice soon finds herself in the midst of a highly competitive initiation, where she must struggle to determine who her true friends are. Along the way, she discovers a secret that could save those she loves – or destroy her. As she navigates the growing conflict that threatens to unravel her seemingly perfect society, she also learns that her secret might be the only thing that can save them. Divergent is a thrilling read, filled with electrifying decisions, heartbreaking betrayals, stunning consequences, and unexpected romance. It is the perfect book for those looking for an exciting and thought-provoking read.

The First to Die at the End

9.2
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The First to Die at the End is the prequel to the bestselling phenomenon They Both Die at the End. It tells the story of two strangers, Orion Pagan and Valentino Prince, who spend a life-changing day ...together after Death-Cast first makes their fateful calls. Orion has waited years for someone to tell him that he’s going to die. He has a serious heart condition, and he signed up for Death-Cast so he could know what’s coming. Valentino is restarting his life in New York and has a long and promising future ahead. He only registered for Death-Cast after his twin sister nearly died in a car accident. The two boys cross paths in Times Square and immediately feel a deep connection. But when the first round of End Day calls goes out, their lives are changed forever—one of them receives a call, and the other doesn’t. Though neither boy is certain how the day will end, they know they want to spend it together…even if that means their goodbye will be heartbreaking. The First to Die at the End is told with acclaimed author Adam Silvera’s signature bittersweet touch. It celebrates the lasting impact that people have on each other and proves that life is always worth living to the fullest. This book has already been named a Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable story!

Divine Secrets of the Ya

9.2
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Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood is a classic of Southern women’s fiction written by Rebecca Wells. This #1 New York Times bestseller reigned at the top of the list for an remarkable sixty-eig...ht weeks and is a must-read for fans of Southern fiction. The novel follows a lifetime friendship between four Southern women and explores the bonds of female friendship, the often-rocky relationship between mothers and daughters, and the healing power of humor and love. It is praised for its grace, charm, talent, and power. Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood is a big, blowzy romp through the rainbow eccentricities of three generations of crazy bayou debutantes. It is very entertaining and, ultimately, deeply moving novel about the complex bonds between mother and daughter. If you’re looking for a classic of Southern women’s fiction that explores the bonds of female friendship, the often-rocky relationship between mothers and daughters, and the healing power of humor and love, Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood is the perfect book for you.

The Ballad of Never After (Once Upon a Broken Heart, 2)

9.2
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The Ballad of Never After is the jaw-dropping sequel to the bestselling Once Upon a Broken Heart, starring Evangeline Fox and the Prince of Hearts on a new journey of magic, mystery, and heartbreak. N...ot every love is meant to be, and after Jacks, the Prince of Hearts, betrays Evangeline, she swears she'll never trust him again. However, when a terrifying curse is revealed, Evangeline finds herself entering into a tenuous partnership with Jacks again. Now, the rules have changed and Jacks isn’t the only force Evangeline needs to be wary of. In fact, he may be the only one she can trust, despite her desire to despise him. Evangeline and Jacks must do battle with old friends, new foes, and a magic that plays with heads and hearts. To break the murderous spell, Evangeline must overcome her mistrust of Jacks and trust her heart. Stephanie Garber’s The Ballad of Never After is the #1 New York Times Bestseller that will take readers on a thrilling journey of magic, mystery, and heartbreak. Don’t miss out on this amazing tale of love and redemption. Read more today!

Girl Island: The gripping YA adventure that readers are saying is impossible to put down

9
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Girl Island: The gripping YA adventure that readers are saying is impossible to put down" is a captivating and thrilling YA adventure novel that follows seventeen-year-old farm girl Ellery as she find...s herself stuck on a plane with a bunch of mean girls, the school dork and her ex-best friend. When the plane crashes and they find themselves alone on a deserted island, the real challenge begins. As they fight for survival, long-buried secrets are uncovered and – one by one – each girl’s true character emerges. Can friendships, like fires, be relit? And can Ellery survive on Girl Island? Girl Island is a powerful and gripping story that readers are saying is impossible to put down. With its thrilling plot, captivating characters and fast-paced action, this award-winning novel is perfect for fans of The Hunger Games. Written by debut author, Castle Castle, this book has been praised for its strong female characters, its exploration of class, identity and toxic femininity, and its beautiful and powerful writing. The story is set on an island where six teenage girls must learn to pull together and survive, or risk descending into savagery. Through her protagonist, Ellery, Castle explores the complexity of teenage girl relationships and the strength of female friendships. As the girls fight to survive, they must confront their own inner demons and challenge their preconceived notions of each other. Girl Island has been the recipient of numerous awards, including the Golden Crown Literary Society 2022 Winner in the Debut Novel and Young Adult Fiction categories. It has also been praised by readers and critics alike, with reviews such as "Move over Katniss Everdeen, there's room for another teen heroine" and "Mean Girls meets Lord of the Flies. I loved it." If you're looking for a gripping YA adventure that is impossible to put down, look no further than Girl Island. With its thrilling plot, captivating characters and powerful writing, this is an unforgettable read.

The Gravity of Us

9
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The Gravity of Us is a smart and heart-warming young adult debut novel perfect for fans of Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera. In this story, two teens find love when their lives are uprooted for their... parents' involvement in a NASA mission to Mars. Cal wants to be a journalist and is well underway with almost half a million followers on his FlashFame app and an upcoming internship at Buzzfeed. But his plans are suddenly derailed when his pilot father is selected for a highly-publicized NASA mission to Mars. Within days, Cal and his parents leave Brooklyn for hot and humid Houston. With the entire nation desperate for any new information about the astronauts, Cal finds himself thrust in the middle of a media circus. Suddenly his life is more like a reality TV show, with his constantly bickering parents struggling with their roles as the "perfect American family." It is within this chaos that Cal meets Leon, whose mother is another astronaut on the mission, and he finds himself falling head over heels--and fast. They become an oasis for each other amid the craziness of this whole experience. As their relationship grows, so does the frenzy surrounding the Mars mission, and when secrets are revealed about ulterior motives of the program, Cal must find a way to get to the truth without hurting the people who have become most important to him. The Gravity of Us is an IndieBound YA Bestseller, an IndieNext List Pick, an Amazon Best Book, a Goodreads Choice Award Finalist, a Cosmopolitan Best Young Adult Book of the Year, and is recommended on the TODAY Show! With its smart, heartfelt story and strong characters, The Gravity of Us is sure to be a hit with readers of all ages.

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