Article contributed by Ailish Brassil
New adult is a genre for the readers who feel they are too old to read about or relate to the young teen protagonists in a love triangle, but also feel too young to read about older housewives with marital troubles. Authors writing for the new adult genre recognise the transition from teen fiction to early adult as their protagonists are typically aged between eighteen and thirty years old.
Whilst the following books may not necessarily be classified as new adult at your bookstore (since you likely won’t find a dedicated section), they do feature older protagonists that face an array of intriguing topics such as university life, royalty, magic, fantasy, romance, and dysfunctional families.
Read on to discover a few of my own recommendations and if you have more recommendations, share them in the comment section below!
Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell
Identical twins, Cath and Wren, begin their freshman year of college. Wren wants adventure, to have different experiences, and to make new friends, whereas Cath wants to stay in and work on her fanfiction which can be read alongside the main plot. The girls are pulled in opposite directions. This heartwarming story tests the bonds of sisterhood and opens the door to romance.
Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo
Ninth House is Leigh Bardugo’s debut into adult writing as she sets her story in Yale University. The protagonist, Alex Stern, investigates the activities of some of Yale’s oldest secret societies in this exciting tale of power, forbidden magic raising the dead and murder. Leigh is well-known for her other series, Shadow and Bone, which has recently been adapted into a television series that is now streaming on Netflix.
Crescent City: House of Earth and Blood by Sarah. J. Maas
This fast-paced story follows Bryce Quinlan, who is half-fae half-human, as she fights for justice for her werewolf friends who were brutally murdered by a demon. She has unwanted help from Hunt Athalar, an enslaved fallen angel. Secrets, betrayals, disowned families and romance are just the tip of the iceberg in this high fantasy. The much awaited sequel, House of Sky and Breath is out February 2022.
Chosen Ones by Veronica Roth
Chosen Ones takes place 15 years after five teenagers, Sloane, Esther, Matt, Ines, and Albie, saved the world from their enemy known as, The Dark One. On the tenth anniversary of his defeat, the gang realise the Dark One’s plans are just beginning and he’s back for revenge. Each character deals with their fame in different ways which makes for interesting insights into their lives. Veronica Roth is also known for the YA series, Divergent.
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E Schwab
This story begins in France in 1714 and spans over 300 years across different continents until settling in modern day Manhattan. It flashes back and forth to give the reader a clear understanding of Addie’s past. In what is like a race against time, Addie faces demons from her past in her present life because of a deal with the devil gone wrong. Travel to Venice, London, and Paris alongside Addie on her quest to have someone, anyone, remember her.
Vicious by V.E Schwab
V. E Schwab’s talent as a writer shines through as this story is completely different. Hero, villain, or both? Victor Vale (even his name sounds like a good superhero or a bad villain) lands himself in jail following dalliances with near-death experiences in order to create the supernatural. The story flashes back to before Victor went to prison and to present day when he has been released of his own accord. Eli Ever, Victor’s once friend and now enemy, is not happy about Victor’s escape and plans to stop him. Memorable characters, interesting plot, and a new take on the supernatural, this book has it all. There is a sequel called Vengeful and the third book, Victorious, is yet to be released.
Red, White and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
Royalty hasn’t looked this good since Mia Thermopolis took to the throne. After an international incident at a wedding, the Royal family and the President of the United States make arrangements to ensure Prince Henry and Alex, the First Son are seen keeping the peace. In a world of royalty and presidential politics, romance is the last thing on anyone’s mind especially Prince Henry of England and Alex, The First Son.
Vinegar Girl by Anne Tyler
Anne Tyler, winner of the Pulitzer Prize, brings us this modern retelling of Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew. Kate Battista is a single, 29-year-old who gets wrapped up in one of her father’s latest schemes. Eccentric fathers, little sisters and scientific discoveries makes this book a fun, easy read. For fans of the iconic film 10 Things I Hate About You, this is a must-read for you.
Sweetbitter by Stephanie Danler
This coming-of-age story features 22-year-old protagonist Tess as a small town girl from Ohio who comes to the glamorous city of New York to navigate the restaurant scene. Cocktails and champagne, midnight hours and a dark love triangle shape Tess’ life in ways she could never have imagined. This has also been adapted into a television series on Starz.
Remember Us by Lindsay Blake and Layne James
This list started with twins so why not finish with twins? 25-year-old Ben rings his twin sister, Reese, to inform her of a family illness. She immediately returns to her childhood home in Nebraska where her estranged mother shows up after 13 years. Dysfunctional families make for great stories as this one must confront their past whether they want to or not.
