Young adult romance is a genre that captivates readers with its blend of heartfelt emotions, relatable characters, and compelling storylines. If you loved The Fine Art of Pretending by Rachel Harris, you’ll be thrilled to discover more books that capture the same essence of romance, drama, and self-discovery. Below, I’ve curated a list of 19 books that will keep you turning pages late into the night.
Books Similar to The Fine Art of Pretending
1. To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before
Jenny Han’s To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before follows Lara Jean, a girl whose secret love letters are accidentally sent out to all her past crushes. This leads her into a whirlwind of romantic entanglements and self-discovery. It’s a delightful read that explores the complexities of young love and identity.
2. Anna and the French Kiss
Stephanie Perkins’ Anna and the French Kiss takes readers to the romantic streets of Paris, where Anna meets the charming Étienne St. Clair. The novel beautifully captures the excitement and confusion of falling in love in a foreign land. It’s a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good love story with a touch of wanderlust.
3. The DUFF: Designated Ugly Fat Friend
Kody Keplinger’s The DUFF tells the story of Bianca, a high school senior who is labeled as the “Designated Ugly Fat Friend.” The book delves into themes of self-worth, friendship, and unexpected romance. It’s a refreshing take on teenage insecurities and the journey to self-acceptance.
4. Since You’ve Been Gone
Morgan Matson’s Since You’ve Been Gone follows Emily, who is left with a list of tasks to complete after her best friend Sloane mysteriously disappears. The novel is a heartwarming exploration of friendship, courage, and the surprises life holds. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy a mix of adventure and romance.
5. P.S. I Like You
Kasie West’s P.S. I Like You centers on Lily, who finds herself exchanging anonymous letters with a mystery student. As she falls for her pen pal, she navigates the ups and downs of high school life. This charming and witty novel is a delightful read for anyone who loves a good secret admirer story.
6. The Fill-In Boyfriend
In The Fill-In Boyfriend by Kasie West, Gia Montgomery enlists a stranger to pose as her boyfriend after being dumped on prom night. This leads to unexpected feelings and a journey of self-discovery. It’s a fun, light-hearted read that explores themes of identity and authenticity.
7. Fangirl
Rainbow Rowell’s Fangirl follows Cath, a college freshman who is deeply immersed in the world of fan fiction. As she navigates new friendships and first love, she learns to balance her passion with real-life responsibilities. This novel is a heartfelt exploration of growing up and finding one’s voice.
8. My Life Next Door
Huntley Fitzpatrick’s My Life Next Door tells the story of Samantha, who falls for the boy next door, Jase Garrett. Their relationship faces challenges as family secrets come to light. This beautifully written novel captures the essence of summer love and the complexities of family dynamics.
9. Everything, Everything
Nicola Yoon’s Everything, Everything is about Maddy, a girl who is allergic to the outside world, and her relationship with her new neighbor, Olly. The novel explores themes of love, risk, and the desire for freedom. It’s a compelling read that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
10. The Upside of Unrequited
Becky Albertalli’s The Upside of Unrequited follows Molly, a girl with a history of unrequited crushes. When her twin sister falls in love, Molly feels left behind and must navigate her own romantic feelings. This novel is a heartfelt exploration of self-esteem, love, and the complexities of adolescence.
11. Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda
Becky Albertalli’s Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda tells the story of Simon Spier, a high school junior who is trying to keep his sexuality a secret while being blackmailed by a classmate. The book is a touching and humorous exploration of identity, love, and acceptance.
12. Love, Life, and the List
Kasie West’s Love, Life, and the List follows Abby Turner, an artist who creates a list of experiences to gain more life experience and improve her art. Along the way, she navigates friendship, unrequited love, and self-discovery. This novel is a perfect blend of romance and personal growth.
13. The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight
Jennifer E. Smith’s The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight takes place over 24 hours and follows Hadley Sullivan as she meets Oliver on a flight to London. Their instant connection leads to a whirlwind romance. This novel is a delightful exploration of fate, love, and the magic of chance encounters.
14. When Dimple Met Rishi
Sandhya Menon’s When Dimple Met Rishi is about two Indian-American teens whose parents have arranged their marriage. Dimple is focused on her career, while Rishi is a romantic. Their summer program at a tech conference leads to unexpected love and self-discovery. This novel is a charming and culturally rich love story.
15. Tell Me Three Things
Julie Buxbaum’s Tell Me Three Things follows Jessie, who is struggling to adjust to a new life after her mother’s death and her father’s remarriage. An anonymous email from a fellow student offers her support and friendship. This novel is a touching and humorous exploration of grief, friendship, and love.
16. Geekerella
Ashley Poston’s Geekerella is a modern retelling of Cinderella set in the world of fandoms and conventions. Elle Wittimer, a devoted fan of a sci-fi series, enters a cosplay contest and meets Darien Freeman, the actor playing her favorite character. This novel is a delightful blend of romance, fandom culture, and fairy tale magic.
17. The Summer I Turned Pretty
Jenny Han’s The Summer I Turned Pretty is a coming-of-age story about Belly Conklin, who spends every summer at a beach house with her family and friends. This summer, everything changes as she navigates love and growing up. The novel beautifully captures the nostalgia and bittersweetness of summer romance.
18. Twilight
Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight is the iconic love story between Bella Swan and Edward Cullen, a vampire. The novel explores themes of forbidden love, danger, and the supernatural. It’s a must-read for anyone who enjoys a blend of romance and fantasy.
19. The Sun Is Also a Star
Nicola Yoon’s The Sun Is Also a Star follows Natasha and Daniel, who meet and fall in love over the course of a single day in New York City. The novel explores themes of fate, family, and the immigrant experience. It’s a beautifully written story that will leave you pondering the power of connection and destiny.