Staff Suggestions — Young Adult
Madeline will do anything to keep her family's indie bookstore from closing, but what she doesn't expect is the ensuing prank war with the snarky, annoyingly handsome Jasper Hamada whose parents own the rival bookstore across the street. Last Chance Books is pure fun. It's the best of both worlds combining romance, laughs, and family drama in one addicting story while also showing the importance of supporting local small businesses. The banter between Madeline and Jasper is absolutely perfect, and had me very impatient for when they'd finally get over their fighting and kiss already. It's the perfect book for romcom lovers filled with plenty of bookish details any reader would love!
— Becky
Is this a predictable story about a commoner finding out she’s a princess? Nope! Is this yet another opposites-attract love story? No! Yes, Izumi finds out her father is the crown prince of Japan. Yes, there is a romance. Absolutely! But there is so much more. Izumi took on the universal themes of Who are we? and Where do we belong?. And I LOVE what she discovered. I won’t give it away, but I will say that I was truly moved and cried a lot. But I also laughed. All readers will find Izumi’s challenges relatable. My favorite YA of the year!
— Susan
Clever and outspoken, 15-year-old Gracie has a slingshot and she’s not afraid to use it! When she sees Wade, the new kid in school being bullied by seniors, she goes for it, a move which lands both of them in the principal’s office. But that proves to be a bonding experience, and Gracie and Wade soon fall in love. A coming-of-age story of love found, love lost, and friendship, with a song for every chapter.
Content warning: language and sexual situations.
— Marilyn
Tanya is the feisty tavern wench I always wanted to be. Slinging drinks and breaking up fights, until her tavern owner kicks it and she finds out that the tavern was not left to her like she thought. She tags along with the Queens Corps to try to get her now usurped tavern back. Toss in a magical feather, a power hungry queen, some rapscallions and a lot of kidnapping, it’ll be tough to put this down.
— Rhi
Two best friends. Zero Phones. One night in a city full of possibilities. What could go wrong?
I love, love, love a story that takes place all in one night and one from Morgan Matson my favorite YA author? I knew I was in for a good time.
This book is as addicting and fun as expected, peppered with disastrous mishaps and "you had to be there to believe it" experiences that left me wishing I could sneak away for an adventure in NYC myself. This book has it all: adventure, laughs, family drama, romance, and even an adorable dog. I loved reading from both Stevie and Kat's perspectives and the additional side story that's even more outrageous. If you're looking for a book to escape with, check out Take Me Home Tonight and find out how a night that began as an absolute disaster turns out to be just the thing Stevie and Kat needed.
— Becky
Attention fans of Guardians of the Galaxy and Lord of the Rings! Your epic fantasy dreams have been answered. Realm Breaker is a story about who steps up when the heroes fail––in this case, a ragtag group of criminals and disgraced heroes who may just want to save themselves badly enough to save the world. This is the kind of story you can get lost in, whether you’re invested in the skillfully executed worldbuilding or the twisting plot or the clever characters. Realm Breaker is high, epic fantasy at its finest.
— Bridey
Once again Sarah Moon has created characters I didn’t want to let go of. In addition to struggling with an alcoholic mother, the sisters each have difficulties of their own to navigate. Throughout the novel, the message of living your own life in spite of your circumstances, was empowering, and humor kept the novel hopeful and fun. This is an author to follow!
— Jamie
Kate in Waiting is like Naomi and Ely's No Kiss List for theater nerds. Equally a story of swoony romance and heartwarming friendship. Kate and Anderson have fallen for the same guy many times before - "communal crushes" are kind of their thing - but Matt might be the crush that drives a wedge between them. Becky Albertalli knows how to write addicting YA books that grab you from the beginning, comfort you like a good hug, and guarantee a lot of laughs. Whether you're a longtime fan or looking for a story to make you happy, Kate in Waiting is the book for you!
— Becky
In this dark and mysterious Peter Pan inspired story, 18-year-old Wendy Darling is still trying to uncover what happened to her brothers after they went missing when more local children start to vanish. Aiden Thomas had me as an instant fan with their debut novel Cemetery Boys, so you bet I was counting down the days until Lost in the Never Woods came out. This book is filled with hilarious and heartwarming dialogue and has a bittersweet ending with a twist that will leave you feeling all kinds of emotions.
— Becky
If you’re looking for a book to keep you on the edge of your seat from the first chapter to the last, look no further! The Prison Healer is a fast-paced fantasy set in a ruthless death prison following an inmate who will do anything to survive. Lynette Noni is the Queen of Twists and Turns and every chapter brings something new and exciting. Great for fans of Sarah J. Maas or Jennifer L. Armentrout!
— Bridey
After losing both her parents in a car accident, everyone wants Daya to talk through her feelings, but she would much rather trade her emotional pain for physical pain. When a friend introduces her to roller derby, Daya believes she found the perfect place for her. Bruised surprised me in all the best ways. It's main focus is on grief and how that journey of overcoming trauma and loss looks different for everyone. I love, love, love the characters, too, especially Shanti. I so wish I could meet them all in real life. I definitely picked up this book for the roller derby aspect, but fell in love with the many other layers of the story that handles discussions on grief, family, identity and strength in such a wonderfully relatable way.
— Becky
Yolk is a slow-burn, character-driven story full of emotion and dark humor. It follows 2 sisters, Jayne and June, who are nothing alike but will need to put their rivalries aside to help each other out when they need it most. Mary H.K. Choi's writing is simply stunning. I haven't read YA quite like hers. I love the depth she goes into with her characters, introducing us to every fault and secret they'd rather keep to themselves. On the surface Jayne and June might not be the most likable characters, but you grow to love them and will find yourself connecting them in ways that may hit close to home. Overall a phenomenal story I loved from beginning to end.
— Becky
Giving out relationship-saving advice from Locker 89 has allowed Darcy Phillips to anonymously help out her classmates all while making some much needed cash. But when Alexander Brougham (obnoxious,hot, full of himself) threatens to expose her, Darcy will need to pull out all the stops to keep her business running. This is a pitch-perfect rom-com that has made me an instant Sophie Gonzales fan! With heart, humor & hijinks reminiscent of Becky Albertalli and Jenny Han, Perfect on Paper shines with queer pride and tackles necessary discussions on bisexuality and belonging.
In the explosive sequel to Fable, Adrienne Young invites you back aboard the Marigold in a story of sacrifice, love, and dangerous expeditions. Fable is exactly the kind of character I love––clever and strong, but also someone that loves fiercely and will defend her family and friends with an unwavering loyalty. Set in a rich and glittering world, Fable’s story continues and dives deeper into the schemes and secrets of the traders and will leave readers breathless and waiting for more from Adrienne Young.
— Bridey
I’d be lying if I said this book didn’t make me cry. Sing Me Forgotten combines some of my favorite elements of the Phantom of the opera with dark memory magic and the descent into darkness story of a girl who decides she’s no longer satisfied hiding behind a curtain. Jessica S. Olson put so much emotion into this book and left me both destroyed and empowered. Loved, loved, LOVED this one!
— Bridey
Allison Saft will draw readers into a haunting manor with dark secrets behind every door. This is a story of healing as much as it is a story of mystery and betrayal and does a spectacular job of illustrating what it means to be human. Readers will fall in love with Wren and Hal and their deeply emotional journey and find strength in their morals. This is the gothic romance I’ve been waiting for!
— Bridey
Angeline Boulley draws the curtain back on Chippewa Indian culture in a timely story that is both enlightening and riveting. Daunis is seeking justice for her best friend's death but a steamy romance with an undercover agent could hijack the investigation. I found myself drawn to the wisdom of the Elders and the ultimate sense of belonging. Perfect for fans of This Is My America and other "own voices"
— Jamie
When a man claims The Unity Project killed his son, aspiring journalist Lo takes the opportunity to try and expose the cult that lured in her sister Bea. Lo’s investigation brings her closer to the group’s charismatic leader and helps her piece together what happened in the years since she last saw Bea, but if she isn’t careful, she’ll find herself falling down the same path. Heartbreaking, surprising, and infuriating, this thriller is a stunning follow up to Sadie that had me on the edge of my seat until the very end.
— Becky
I like how finding her voice as a standup comedian allowed her to see her boyfriend in a new way and question what love should look like.
With plenty of laughs, I especially liked the scenes with her sister, and the idea that, at 16, she could impersonate a college student—what could possibly go wrong??— Jamie
A classic coming of age story about seventeen-year-old Charlie Vega who struggles with her relationships with her mother, her body, and herself. This story showcases the messiness of growing up, while also celebrating the wonderful friendship and firsts that come out of it. So sweet, so goofy, and so full of the relatable, awkward, and sometimes heartbreaking parts of first love. I couldn't help but read this in one sitting.
— Becky
I liked Shusterman’s vision of multiple universes. It was fun to watch Ash try out each one to get to his perfect world. Philosophical yet so realistic, I found myself thinking about what my perfect world would look like; would I have the nerve to jump universes?
— Jamie
Brigid Kemmerer delivered in the final Cursebreakder book! This book brings back all our favorite characters––Rhen, Harper, Grey, and Lia Mara––in one epic finale. As these friends prepare for war against one another,, relationships and loyalties are tested when they realize they may have a common enemy. Filled with romance, action, and heart-stopping twists, A Vow So Bold and Deadly is a conclusion you don’t want to miss!
— Bridey
What an empowering read! For fans of Grown and Punching the air, Muted follows three ambitious girls trying to kickstart their singing careers, only to be tricked and manipulated by a famous R&B star. One of my favorite parts about this book is that it’s written in verse, which truly showcases Denver’s love of music and the power she finds in her voice. CONTENT WARNING: This book deals with subjects including sexual assault, drugging, rape, and kidnapping.
— Bridey
This gripping story doesn’t shy away from the horrifying details of the collaspe of the twin towers. Told in alternating chapters, it is balanced by the story of an Afghan girl whose brother is joining the Taliban. Her stark view of her country’s war-torn heritage leaves the reader with many questions to consider. Although sensitive readers may find it too graphic, this is a well-done account of an important event in history.
— Jamie
Angie Thomas gives us an intimate portrait of a young man at a critical point in his life. I ached with every decision he made and every misstep he took. When I wasn’t reading, I worried about this fictional character, truly the sign of a brilliant writer. Riveting and real, I highly recommend this prequel to The Hate U Give.
— Jamie
This is the book to read if you need a little happiness in your life. After a series of bad events leads her parents to worry for her mental health, Lila ends up spending her summer in Winchester, England, at her aunt's inn. Here, she'll learn to balance her love for family tradition and loyalty to Miami with all the changes life throws her way. This story is simply unforgettable and has one of the sweetest slow-burn romances, with a satisfying ending to wrap everything together. It's as warm and cozy as a handknit cardigan and as sweet as the Cuban pastries I am now desperately craving.
— Beck
Kill a God, gain their power. Greek Mythology fused with The Hunger Games? I’ll take it! 17-year-old Lore is looking to stay far away from the Agon, where nine Greek gods lose their immortality and are forced to be hunted by ancient human houses hungry for divinity. Through every page there are twists and unspoken secrets, and when you find those answers - you burn with shock. A natural heroine, Lore explores what it means to be a warrior, even when she goes up against the gods themselves.
— Lindsay A.
Jay is the kind of flawed, loveable guy you can count on to eventually do the right thing. So when his sister goes missing, I was impressed with how he navigated systemic racism on top of trying to find her. A good, timely mystery.
— Jamie
Sometimes a friend can tell you things in an intimate, poignant, and funny way that no one else can. This is to be read, reread, and made a part of each of our lives, to make the world a better place. Thank you, Frederick Joseph.
— Jamie
A Romeo and Juliet retelling? Set in 1920s Shanghai? With rival gangs and an inexplicable madness tearing apart the city? Sign me up! These Violent Delights has an incredible combination of romance, mystery, and power dynamics in a unique setting––which made it a thrilling read. Chloe Gong’s writing is as lyrical and humorous as any Shakespeare play!
— Bridey
A suspenseful WWII story played out in Scotland, with a cast of characters itching to be a bigger part of the war. When an Enigma Machine is hidden in their midst by a German pilot, suddenly the stakes couldn’t be higher. I raced through this book and loved each of the three characters telling the story. Although some of these characters have appeared in Wein’s previous novels, this one can be enjoyed all on its own. I highly recommend it!
— Jamie
I haven’t read a good “boy and his sword” fantasy in a while, and really enjoyed this one. Plenty of action and creative storytelling help to fill that void, and promises another to come!
— Jamie
Fans of Marie Lu will be well pleased with book one of the Skyhunter duology. It’s classic Marie! For those not familiar with her writing, here’s a lightning-paced dystopian fantasy with a dynamic balance of characters that will appeal to both guys and gals. I’m intrigued with Talin’s world—I want to know more about it! And the fight scenes rival those of a Marvel movie. I’m curious to see how this will wrap up.
— Susan
I fully expected to love this book, but Kerri Maniscalco exceeded my expectations and blew my mind! Maniscalco is truly skilled at combining romance, mystery, and dark magic in this haunting, revenge-filled tale of witches and demons. Perfect for fans of Serpent & Dove!
— Bridey
Roshani Chokshi has done it again and written a fantastic, beautifully crafted book full of complex characters, relationships, and jaw-dropping plot twists. I stayed up late to finish and haven’t stopped thinking about it since! The Silvered Serpents will leave you aching for the next adventure. Perfect for fans of Six of Crows and Wicked Saints!
— Bridey
Fans of Percy Jackson will latch on to this re-release graphic novel as it mixes our modern-day life with that of mythical Japanese creatures. With important themes discussed, like masculinity, immigration and family, Ichiro will jump to the top of your to be read pile. This award-winning graphic novel is so unbelievably beautiful that you’ll come for the story but stay for the illustrations!
— Lindsay A.
Havenfall is an absolutely magical story of strength, mystery, and hidden agendas. Maddie is a character you can’t help but fall in love with as she tries to navigate the pressure of an unexpected leadership and save the place she holds close to her heart. Sara Holland’s portal fantasy is a must read for fans of A Curse So Dark and Lonely!
— Bridey
This coming of age story is one for the ages. Aiden struggles to come to terms with his growing feelings for a boy at camp. While the dark moments of this graphic novel will make you feel sad and frustrated, the lighter moments will give you hope and make you root for this captivating character. As it deals with many serious issues, I would recommend this for ages 14+.
— Lindsay A.
I just love that more YA authors are getting into the graphic novel game! Swamp Thing is a thrill ride, a deep examination of family issues, and a DC comic all rolled into one. The art is so unbelievably expressive and engaging that I had to remember that there was actually text included! It’s a fabulous introduction of a fan favorite DC character but with darker elements that teens latch on to and not want to let go.
— Lindsay A.
Following a spitfire alchemist on a quest to achieve the highest of honors in her field and save her mother at the risk of her sanity, this standalone fantasy will draw you into a world of betrayal, love, and fierce ambition. Though danger lurks at every turn, Thea is a persistent protagonist and is passionate in her accomplishments and loyalty to those she loves and was a delight to read. Detailed and full of twists, A Golden Fury will take readers on a journey of magic and a descent into madness.
— Bridey
Finally! A way to read and understand the constitution without feeling overwhelmed! This graphic novel interpretation of the constitution and the way those decisions affect us today provides young adults with a detailed analysis that can help them form their own opinions.
— Lindsay A.
The innerworkings of the United States government can be complex and hard to explain. This book lays it all out there and gives you the tools and information you need to understand it. This is the book you’ll want in your back pocket when you're in the middle of an argument about politics! This is a civics class that makes you laugh, but in a book!
— Lindsay A.
A haunting story of beautiful, but not quite perfect people and places whose own flaws help a young woman confront literal and metaphoric ghosts of her past. I love how this book weaves the past and present together, pulling us into Mila’s thoughts from the beginning. Nina LaCour’s writing is simply stunning. All the stories she crafts are sure to make you emotional and keep you settled in until the final page. The somber tone of this particular book is the perfect eerie story to read this fall.
— Becky
A dark, supernatural thriller set in 1907, Eventide is the story of 17-year-old Verity and her sister Lilah who arrive in rural Arkansas on the orphan train, unaware of their scandalous family history. When Lilah is adopted, Verity must quickly adapt in order to stay close to her sister in this eerie place. But the light in the darkness is Verity, a fearless young woman determined to find the truth about her family, finding love along the way. A book that will also appeal to adult readers.
— Marilyn
Camilia is an Argentinian girl with a dream to go pro in fútbol, but she struggles against the expectations of her strict parents. This is not just a sports story, this is a tale of feminisim, culture, tradition, love...and yes, a lot of soccer. Camilia's determination and passion for fútbol makes me ache with admiration. This is perfect for fans of the movie Bend it Like Beckham and the book The Poet X.
— Lindsay A.
Deliciously twisty, I devoured this Knives Out-style mystery. A Connecticut girl with plenty of attitude is the lucky recipient of a vast fortune (could happen to any of us!) and everyone wants to know why. I loved the layered puzzles, the handsome grandsons, and the very mysterious Tobias. Lots of fun and well done.
— Jamie
How much can privilege hide? This classic whodunit set in a rich seaside town is being adapted into a TV series called The Players' Table starring Sydney Sweeney & Halsey. With sexy hookups and dangerous initiation rituals, this is an edgy teen murder mystery.
— Jamie
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