Oh, young adult novels. Whether you love them or hate them, there is no doubt at least one of these infamous series sat in your middle school locker and inspired countless debates about if you were #TeamEdward or #TeamJacob.
Young adult series have a special place in all of our hearts, allowing us to escape our current realities into the fantastical worlds of Hogwarts, Panem, Forks, and more. More importantly, though, the characters who populate these stories offered a relatable friend when we were younger or represented who we wished we could be.
If you’re like us, young adult series still hold a precious spot on your bookshelf. While these stories may be geared towards a younger audience, the complex plots, dynamic characters, and masterful world-building that inhabit these novels make them accessible, and enjoyable, for any reader — no matter their age.
Here are our five favorite YA series:
1. Hush, Hush, Becca Fitzpatrick
The Hush, Hush series is a quartet of novels that follow teenager Nora Grey as she falls in love with Patch, a fallen angel, and discovers her own ties to angels. Expect lots of romance, lots of drama, and lots of suspense — all with a side of supernatural magic.
2. Fallen, Lauren Kate
Consisting of six novels, the Fallen series centers around Lucinda Price, a teenager sent to a southern border school after being accused of murder. There she meets mysterious stranger Daniel who has secrets of his own. With themes of religion, fallen angels, and reincarnation, you won’t be putting these books down any time soon.
3. Red Queen, Victoria Aveyard
With five installments and counting, the Red Queen series is nothing short of mesmerizing. The story follows Mare, a commoner, who discovers she has god-like powers, thrusting her into a deadly conflict with the elite ruling class. Expect dramatic and explosive storylines centered around class, magic, and family in this page-turning series.
4. Beauchamp Family series, Melissa de la Cruz
Kicking off with the Witches of East End, this magical series features a family of Long Island witches with ties to Salem. Over the course of three novels, the family is put to the test as they contend with dark forces conspiring against them. The interweaving of fantasy, drama, and mythology make this series a stand out amongst its other witchy brethren.
5. Bakers Mountain Stories series, Joyce Moyer Hostetter
Unlike the other series on this list, the Bakers Mountain Stories novels are firmly based in this world — specifically WWII-era America and the following two decades. The novels follow a tight-knit North Carolina community of teens and their families as they navigate friendship, family, and independence, all against the backdrop of American history. With a heart-warming core message about supporting those around you, these books offer an approachable take on history and overcoming personal challenges.
There you have it! While these are our five favorite young adult series, this is only the tip of the iceberg. The next time you are at a bookshop, take a stroll through the YA section and you just might find a compelling story ready to claim its spot on your favorites list.
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