Young adult romance novels are a delightful escape into the world of teen love, self-discovery, and the complexities of growing up. If you loved I Kissed Shara Wheeler by Casey McQuiston, then you are in for a treat. Here are 18 books that capture the same spirit of heartfelt romance and coming-of-age adventures.
Books Similar to I Kissed Shara Wheeler
1. Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda
Becky Albertalli’s Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda follows Simon Spier, a high school junior who is trying to balance his life while keeping his sexuality a secret. When an email falls into the wrong hands, Simon finds himself being blackmailed. This book is a charming and heartfelt exploration of identity and love, perfect for fans of I Kissed Shara Wheeler.
2. What If It’s Us
Co-written by Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera, What If It’s Us is a sweet and serendipitous story about Arthur and Ben, whose chance meeting in New York City leads to a summer of unexpected romance. This book is a delightful read filled with humor, heart, and the ups and downs of new love.
3. Red, White & Royal Blue
Casey McQuiston’s Red, White & Royal Blue tells the story of Alex Claremont-Diaz, the First Son of the United States, and his unexpected romance with Prince Henry of Wales. This novel is full of witty banter, political intrigue, and a swoon-worthy love story that will captivate readers.
4. They Both Die at the End
Adam Silvera’s They Both Die at the End is a poignant and thought-provoking novel about two boys, Mateo and Rufus, who receive a call that they have only one day left to live. As they navigate their final hours together, they form a deep bond that changes their lives forever. This book is a beautiful exploration of love, loss, and living life to the fullest.
5. Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe
Benjamin Alire Sáenz’s Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe is a lyrical and tender story about two boys, Aristotle and Dante, who form an unlikely friendship that blossoms into something more. This novel is a moving exploration of identity, family, and the transformative power of love.
6. Leah on the Offbeat
In Becky Albertalli’s Leah on the Offbeat, Leah Burke, Simon Spier’s best friend, navigates her senior year of high school while dealing with her own romantic feelings and insecurities. This book is a heartfelt and relatable story about self-acceptance and the complexities of teenage relationships.
7. You Should See Me in a Crown
You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson follows Liz Lighty, a girl who dreams of leaving her small town and attending an elite college. To achieve her goal, she decides to run for prom queen and unexpectedly finds herself falling for her competition. This book is an uplifting and empowering story about love, ambition, and staying true to oneself.
8. The Gravity of Us
Phil Stamper’s The Gravity of Us is a heartfelt novel about Cal, a teenage social media influencer, whose life changes when his father is selected for a NASA mission. Amidst the chaos, Cal meets Leon, and their budding romance provides a grounding force. This book beautifully blends romance with themes of family and ambition.
9. Felix Ever After
Kacen Callender’s Felix Ever After is a powerful and heartwarming story about Felix Love, a Black, queer, and transgender teen navigating love and identity. When an anonymous bully targets him, Felix embarks on a journey of self-discovery and revenge, finding unexpected romance along the way. This book is a celebration of self-love and acceptance.
10. Autoboyography
Christina Lauren’s Autoboyography follows Tanner, a bisexual high school senior, who enrolls in a prestigious writing seminar and falls for his mentor, Sebastian. Set against the backdrop of a conservative community, this novel is a touching and honest exploration of love, identity, and the courage to be oneself.
11. The Love & Lies of Rukhsana Ali
Sabina Khan’s The Love & Lies of Rukhsana Ali tells the story of Rukhsana, a Bangladeshi-American teen whose conservative parents discover her relationship with another girl. Forced to confront cultural expectations and her own desires, Rukhsana’s journey is a powerful testament to the strength of love and self-determination.
12. We Are Okay
Nina LaCour’s We Are Okay is a poignant and beautifully written novel about Marin, a college freshman who is grappling with the loss of her grandfather. When her best friend Mabel visits, Marin is forced to confront her past and the feelings she’s been avoiding. This book is a tender exploration of grief, love, and healing.
13. The Music of What Happens
The Music of What Happens by Bill Konigsberg follows Max and Jordan, two boys who run a food truck together over the summer and develop a deep connection. This novel is a heartfelt and authentic portrayal of love, friendship, and the struggles of coming out and being true to oneself.
14. Only Mostly Devastated
Sophie Gonzales’s Only Mostly Devastated is a modern retelling of Grease, following Ollie and Will, whose summer romance is put to the test when they unexpectedly reunite at the same high school. This book is a fun and heartwarming story about love, friendship, and navigating the challenges of high school.
15. The Henna Wars
Adiba Jaigirdar’s The Henna Wars centers on Nishat, a Bangladeshi-Irish teen who comes out to her family and faces cultural and personal challenges. When she starts a henna business and finds herself competing against her crush, Flávia, Nishat must navigate her feelings and cultural expectations. This book is a vibrant and engaging story about identity, love, and resilience.
16. Like a Love Story
Abdi Nazemian’s Like a Love Story is set in 1989 New York City and follows three teens, Reza, Judy, and Art, as they navigate the complexities of love, friendship, and the AIDS crisis. This novel is a powerful and moving tribute to the LGBTQ+ community and a testament to the enduring power of love and activism.
17. Her Royal Highness
Rachel Hawkins’s Her Royal Highness is a charming and delightful story about Millie, who transfers to a Scottish boarding school and finds herself rooming with Flora, the school’s resident princess. As they navigate their differences, Millie and Flora’s relationship evolves into a sweet and unexpected romance. This book is a fun and lighthearted read that will leave you smiling.
18. The Summer of Jordi Perez (And the Best Burger in Los Angeles)&i=stripbooks&tag=b00kwinked-20)
Amy Spalding’s The Summer of Jordi Perez (And the Best Burger in Los Angeles) follows Abby, a plus-size fashionista who lands a coveted internship at her favorite boutique and falls for her co-intern, Jordi. This book is a delightful and inclusive story about love, self-acceptance, and the pursuit of dreams.