7 YA Romance Books You Should Read In 2026

Young adult (YA) romance novels capture the exhilarating, complicated, and unforgettable experiences of first love. They transport readers into the intimate worlds of teenagers navigating emotions, friendships, family pressures, and self-discovery. Whether you're a teen looking for heartfelt stories or an adult seeking nostalgia, these novels explore love in its many forms—innocent, passionate, messy, and transformative. Below is a list of 7 YA romance books you should read in 2026.

1. The Upside of Unrequited by Becky Albertalli

Becky Albertalli’s The Upside of Unrequited is a warm, witty, and relatable story about love, self-esteem, and the challenges of adolescent relationships. Molly Peskin-Suso, who has experienced countless unrequited crushes, navigates her insecurities while discovering romance in unexpected ways. Albertalli tackles themes of body positivity, friendship, and self-confidence, making the romance feel authentic and impactful. The novel emphasizes that first love is often intertwined with personal growth and acceptance. With humor, heart, and relatable characters, this book demonstrates how YA romance can teach resilience, vulnerability, and the importance of embracing oneself while pursuing connection.

2. Since You’ve Been Gone by Morgan Matson

Morgan Matson’s Since You’ve Been Gone blends friendship, self-discovery, and unexpected romance in a heartfelt narrative. Emily embarks on a summer adventure after her best friend, Sloane, disappears, leaving behind a list of dares that push Emily out of her comfort zone. Along the way, she meets Frank, a charming boy who helps her navigate new experiences and feelings. Matson’s story captures the awkward, thrilling, and sometimes messy nature of first love, while emphasizing personal growth and courage. This novel resonates with readers because it combines romance with emotional resilience, independence, and the joys of stepping into the unknown.

3. When Dimple Met Rishi by Sandhya Menon

When Dimple Met Rishi by Sandhya Menon is a delightful YA romance that combines family expectations, cultural identity, and first love. Dimple, an independent tech-savvy teen, and Rishi, a traditional yet earnest boy, are set up in a romantic arrangement by their parents but must navigate their feelings on their own terms. Menon’s writing is witty, heartfelt, and culturally rich, highlighting the balance between self-identity and familial duty. The novel emphasizes communication, empathy, and the excitement of young love. Its humor, relatability, and emotional depth make it a must-read for teens exploring both romance and cultural nuances in relationships.

4. Everything Leads to You by Nina LaCour

Everything Leads to You by Nina LaCour is a tender, introspective story about love, ambition, and self-discovery. Emi, a set designer in Los Angeles, meets Ava, sparking a romance that intertwines with creativity and personal growth. LaCour’s lyrical prose emphasizes that relationships are more than passion—they are about support, empathy, and shared experiences. The novel explores the balance between independence and intimacy, highlighting the importance of pursuing dreams while nurturing emotional connections. Its nuanced portrayal of young love, ambition, and identity makes it an essential YA romance, showing that love can inspire courage, creativity, and self-reflection.

5. Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon

Nicola Yoon’s Everything, Everything is a gripping exploration of love, risk, and freedom. Madeline, confined to her home due to a rare immune disorder, forms a deep bond with her neighbor, Olly. The novel examines the tension between safety and living fully, demonstrating how love can inspire courage and change. Yoon’s innovative narrative, using diary entries, letters, and perspectives, enhances emotional engagement. Themes of vulnerability, self-discovery, and adventure are interwoven with romance, appealing to readers who crave emotional depth alongside a compelling plot. This book is essential for understanding how love can challenge boundaries and encourage personal growth.

6. Crush by Tracy Wolff

Tracy Wolff’s Crush is a contemporary YA romance that mixes humor, teenage angst, and self-discovery. The story follows Sky, a teen navigating the ups and downs of high school relationships and friendships while exploring her feelings for a captivating new classmate. Wolff explores themes of trust, vulnerability, and personal growth, illustrating how love can both challenge and empower young adults. The novel’s relatable characters, witty dialogue, and authentic emotional arcs make it a compelling read for teens and adults alike. Crush emphasizes that first love often teaches essential lessons about boundaries, communication, and understanding one’s own heart.

7. Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell

Rainbow Rowell’s Fangirl is a multi-layered YA romance that blends first love with personal identity and the challenges of growing up. Cath, a socially anxious teen and passionate fanfiction writer, navigates her first romantic relationship while managing college, family expectations, and self-doubt. Rowell explores themes of love, creativity, and emotional growth, showing how relationships can inspire self-confidence and resilience. The romance feels authentic because it unfolds alongside Cath’s personal journey rather than overshadowing it. Fangirl is celebrated for its relatable characters, emotional depth, and ability to show that love, whether romantic or platonic, can shape our identities and aspirations.

Conclusion

As readers, we can find inspiration, empathy, and courage in these stories, learning that love is as much about understanding ourselves as it is about connecting with others. For anyone looking to dive into the world of YA romance, these books provide a perfect starting point—heartfelt, relatable, and unforgettable.