About 72 Hours of You: A unique, unforgettable and tragically romantic YA debut, perfect for readers of Laura Nowlin’s If He Had Been With Me, Adam Silvera’s They Both Die at the End and Dustin Thao’s You’ve Reached Sam. Releases August 27th 2026 in the UK and September 1st 2026 in the US.

Today we’re delighted to be joined by Darianne Schramm, whose debut novel 72 Hours of You takes the reader on an unforgettable emotional rollercoaster in this gorgeously rendered story of love, death and trying to make the most of life. She shares five books to make you feel something, a perfect follow-up for this emotionally immersive read.

The main characters in YA novels try to deflect, hide their emotions, or pretend like they don’t have any at all (ope, relatable). But we all know the truth: there are always feelings. So. Many. Feelings. simmering under that tough exterior. And what’s wrong with feeling anyway, she cries to herself in the mirror? There’s nothing better than a novel that makes you feel something deeply.

Which is why I wrote one myself.

My debut YA tragic romance, 72 Hours Of You, is about a teenager who can see pink neon death clocks over people’s heads 72 hours before they die. And if you’re thinking this book has got to be seriously sad… well, you’re right! It has been known to make people throw the book across the room surrounded by tissues. But it’s also really funny, and hopefully the kind of book that makes you think about life (and death) just little differently.

Below is a list of six books that make you feel deeply and widely.

They Both Die At The End by Adam Silvera

You’ll Feel: Optimistic and Nihilistic
I know, the words “optimistic” and “nihilism” don’t usually go together. Kind of like peanut butter and motor oil. But in this book, they totally do. They Both Die At The End was such an inspiration to me while writing 72 Hours Of You and a big reason for that is the very specific feeling that the novel leaves you with. There is, of course, the deep and abiding existential dread of knowing that not a single one of us is going to survive life. But—stay with me—in knowing and accepting that, there is also freedom! Hey, if none of us are getting out of here alive, we might as well have the best time we can while we’re here. They Both Die At The End will leave you wishing there was another chapter to the book, but when you finally accept that there isn’t anymore (for any of us), you’re left with a sense of possibility and appreciation for the world (and the people) around you.

The Dividing Sky by Jill Tew

You’ll Feel: Heartwarming Coziness
This book is a dystopian romance. I see you glancing back up to make sure I did, in fact, call a dystopian book “heartwarming” and “cozy.” I did! This book is part “eat the rich” and part “oh god, is technology going to ruin our lives??”, but it is all romance. Sure, the world may have fallen into a techno-hellscape, but our main character has also fallen into the arms of her (golden retriever) enemy. And let me tell you, the swoon vibes are off the charts. But beyond that, there is, somehow, a magical coziness to this dystopian book. It is the kind of read that makes you want to curl up with it over and over. I felt so warm and fuzzy while reading—I never wanted to leave the world that Tew had created. Which is a wild thing to say about a dystopian book!

Natural Selection by Clare Edge

You’ll Feel: RAGE!
On the complete opposite end of the spectrum we have the rage-filled manifesto about the (totally valid) feminine urge to tear it all down. Natural Selection is the literary embodiment of the viral question of whether you would choose to be alone in the woods with a man or a bear. And let me tell you, in this house we Live, Laugh, Love and Choose The Bear. Always. This book is a heart-pounding fury-fest, but what’s even better is the absolute catharsis you feel when finishing this book. If “boys will be boys,” then this book is wholly redefining what it means to let “girls be girls.” Natural Selection will take you through the anger and out the other side into power.

All The Noise At Once by DeAndra Davis

You’ll Feel: Sibling Love
All The Noise At Once is such a special book that leaves you with the deep urge to call your sibling and tell them how much you love them. After closing this book, I immediately had to pick up the phone and call my brother to tell him how much I love him (and also remind him that I am still Mom’s favorite). This is a book about police violence against Black people in the US, a book about what it means to be an autistic teen grappling with their place in the world, and it’s definitely about football. But the heart of this book is the relationship between two brothers: the football star and his younger brother. The absolute care and protectiveness shown by Brandon to his younger brother, Aiden, is so beautiful it almost makes you forget the time your own brother drew a bunch of overflowing toilets on your (private!!) diary.

Glass Girl by Kathleen Glasgow

You’ll Feel: Abiding Hope
Hope? With a book cover like that? I know! But stick with me here. Yes, this is a Kathleen Glasgow book so yes, of course, there is trauma, pain and the potent teenage anguish of being alive. But! There is also abiding hope. This novel follows Bella and her struggle with the grief over losing her grandmother, and her subsequent struggle with her coping mechanism of choice: alcohol. Much of the book takes place at a rehab center so there are a lot of different feelings going on in this book, not just sadness. But at the end, we’re left with hope. But of course, this is a Kathleen Glasgow novel and she is the queen of sad-but-true novels. So while there is hope it never feels like false hope. And that is the beauty of a Glasgow novel.

The Fault In Our Stars by John Green

You’ll Feel: The Sads
Last but not least… You didn’t think we could have a list about feeling things deeply and not include a John Green book did you? Couldn’t be done. The Fault In Our Stars is a certified YA classic for a reason. This book has it all: angst, teenagers that talk like they’re mid-doctorate, and death. Just when you think “Perhaps I will not fall victim to the cryfest everyone else seems to be having, maybe, I am made of steel!” this book will kick you square in the gut. If you want to laugh, cry, ponder life, and then cry harder this is the book for you. Just be prepared to stare at a wall for 3-5 business days afterwards.

The post Darianne Schramm’s Six Books That Will Make You Feel Something appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Truth be told, I don’t quite know how to feel about The First to Die at the End. While some of the elements of the novel felt quite repetitive to me, I think that hardcore fans of They Both Die at the End will love all the nods to the source material, the many cameos and the inclusion of key moments the characters in They Both Die at the End also went through.

While I did enjoy that aspect (we love a good cameo, after all), there were times where this story felt too similar to They Both Die at the End and I would have loved a bit more diversity in the setting or at the very least in the characters’ progression of their one-day romance. Depending on which book of the two you read first, you might not enjoy the other one as much because they’re basically the same. Some moments also just felt a bit cringey, like Orion basically disregarding his best friend because of a guy he only met five minutes ago or the profusions of love and devotion that were on every other page. This again comes down to repetition—this story could have worked a bit better if the whole “carpe diem, live life to the fullest” cycle didn’t happen in every single chapter and that way would have had more of a punch. But this is coming from a person who isn’t the biggest fan of instalove or repetition, not to mention that I did compare this way too often with the first novel, so take this with a grain of salt.

All that being said though, Silvera is an excellent writer and knows how to pull on your heartstrings and this book showed this just as much as his other novels. There are full-circle moments that feel like a reward and sweet musings that make you question your own goals in life. There’s also a plethora of uplifting quotes for young readers that remind you to live life to the fullest and not let chances pass you by because you might not get another one. As we learn more about Valentino and Orion’s background, we also get to see more of what makes them tick and pursue the things they are working toward in their lives and that makes you really feel for the characters’ dilemma.

The highlight of The First to Die at the End are the insights we get into Death Cast from other POVs. While we still don’t get real answers as to how Death Cast works (I guess there will be future books where this is explored and actually more of a topic), we at the very least get a glimpse behind the curtain of Death Cast’s first outing in the world, the ups and downs of launching a new program like it and who’s affected by it whether they signed up to learn on which day they die or work for the company that makes life predictable. We also meet the creator of Death Cast and, hate him or love him, we see just how important this venture is to him. I really hope that future installments will dive more into how Death Cast works because that part is so fascinating!

A bittersweet love story infused with Silvera’s trademark talent to pull on your heartstrings, The First to Die at the End is perfect for anyone who’s wanted to get a closer look at Death Cast’s inner workings ever since reading They Both Die at the End or anyone who wants to celebrate the lasting impact people can have on your life.

The First to Die at the End is available from Amazon, Book Depository, and other good book retailers, like your local bookstore, as of October 4th 2022.

Will you be picking up The First to Die at the End? Tell us in the comments below!

Synopsis | Goodreads

In this prequel to #1 New York Times bestselling phenomenon They Both Die at the End, two new strangers spend a life-changing day together after Death-Cast first makes their fateful calls.

It’s the night before Death-Cast goes live, and there’s one question on everyone’s mind: Can Death-Cast actually predict when someone will die, or is it just an elaborate hoax?

Orion Pagan has waited years for someone to tell him that he’s going to die. He has a serious heart condition, and he signed up for Death-Cast so he could know what’s coming.

Valentino Prince is restarting his life in New York. He has a long and promising future ahead and he only registered for Death-Cast after his twin sister nearly died in a car accident.

Orion and Valentino cross paths in Times Square and immediately feel a deep connection. But when the first round of End Day calls goes out, their lives are changed forever—one of them receives a call, and the other doesn’t. Though neither boy is certain how the day will end, they know they want to spend it together…even if that means their goodbye will be heartbreaking.

Told with acclaimed author Adam Silvera’s signature bittersweet touch, this story celebrates the lasting impact that people have on each other and proves that life is always worth living to the fullest.

The post #ReadWithPride: The First to Die at the End by Adam Silvera appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Heat Wave by T.J. Klune
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Nick, Seth, Gibby, and Jazz are back in action bringing justice, protection, and disaster energy to the people of Nova City. An unexpected hero returns to Nova City and crash lands into Nick’s home, upturning his life, his family, and his understanding of what it means to be a hero in the explosive finale of the thrilling and hilarious Extraordinaries trilogy.

Youngblood by Sasha Laurens
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For fans of Vampire Diaries and dark academia, two queer teen bloodsuckers at an elite vampire-only boarding school must go up against all of Vampirdom when they uncover a frightening conspiracy on campus.

The Comedienne’s Guide to Pride by Hayli Thomson
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The Comedienne’s Guide to Pride is a queer coming of age story with biting humor about a young lesbian striving to win a spot on SNL. Taylor Parker isn’t out yet, but she’s keeping an even bigger secret: she entered a sketch contest where the grand prize is an internship at SNL.

The Witchery by S. Isabelle
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Haelsford, Florida, is a hellmouth. Or at least, that’s what Logan, a new witch struggling to control her powers, thinks when she arrives at Mesmortes Coven Academy. She is immediately taken under the wing of the infamous Red Three: Iris, a deathwitch, who wants nothing more than to break the town’s curse; Thalia, the talented greenwitch, on the run from her religious family and a past that still haunts her; and Jailah, one of the most extraordinary witches at the academy whose thirst for power may lead her down a dark path.

In the Event of Love by Courtney Kae
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Offering a steamy, queer spin on the feel-good tropes of a Hallmark movie, this sweet, funny #OwnVoices rom-com is perfect for fans of Casey McQuiston and Alexandria Bellefleur!

Husband Material by Alexis Hall
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In Boyfriend Material, Luc and Oliver met, pretended to fall in love, fell in love for real, dealt with heartbreak and disappointment and family and friends…and somehow figured out a way to make it work. Now it seems like everyone around them is getting married, and Luc’s feeling the social pressure to propose. But it’ll take more than four weddings, a funeral, and a bowl full of special curry to get these two from I don’t know what I’m doing to I do.

The Feeling of Falling in Love by Mason Deaver
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From the bestselling author of I Wish You All the Best, comes a new kind of love story, about the bad decisions we sometimes make… and the people who help get us back on the right path.

This Is Why They Hate Us by Aaron H. Aceves
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This fun, irreverent summer romp is Netflix’s Never Have I Ever meets What If It’s Us about a high school senior determined to get over his unrequited feelings for his best friend by getting under someone else.

Aces Wild by Amanda DeWitt
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Six of Crows goes to Las Vegas in debut author Amanda DeWitt’s suspenseful casino heist, starring an entire crew of asexual teens.

Self-Made Boys: A Great Gatsby Remix by Anna Marie McLemore
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Three teens chase their own version of the American Dream during the Roaring 20s in this YA remix of The Great Gatsby. 

The Sunbearer Trials by Aiden Thomas
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Welcome to The Sunbearer Trials, where teen semidioses compete in a series of challenges with the highest of stakes, in this electric new Mexican-inspired fantasy from Aiden Thomas, the New York Times bestselling author of Cemetery Boys.

Fraternity by Andy Mientus
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A queer, dark academia YA story about a mysterious boarding school, a brotherhood that must stay in the shadows, and an ancient evil that could tear it all apart. 

Destination Unknown by Bill Konigsberg
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From Stonewall Award winner Bill Konigsberg, a remarkable, funny, sexy, heartbreaking story of two teen boys finding each other in New York City at the height of the AIDS epidemic.

Hazel Hill is Gonna Win This One by Maggie Horne
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A funny, feminist, and queer contemporary middle grade debut that follows twelve-year-old loner Hazel Hill, who, after one of her classmates is harassed online, devises a plan to catch the school’s golden boy in the act.

Lavender House by Lev AC Rosen
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A delicious story from a new voice in suspense, Lev AC Rosen’s Lavender House is Knives Out with a queer historical twist.

The First To Die at The End by Adam Silvera
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In this prequel to They Both Die at the End, #1 New York Times bestselling author Adam Silvera tells the story of new star-crossed lovers facing down Death-Cast’s first day. It’s the night before Death-Cast goes live, and there’s one question on everyone’s mind: Can Death-Cast actually predict when someone will die, or is it just an elaborate hoax?

You’re a Mean One, Matthew Prince by Timothy Janovsky
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An “effervescent” (Rachel Lynn Solomon) Christmas LGBTQIA+ New Adult RomCom, perfect for fans of Schitt’s Creek and Red White & Royal Blue.

This Is Our Place by Vitor Martins
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Three teens — in three different decades — navigate life, love, and family in Vitor Martins’ heartfelt new novel that spans generations. Perfect for fans of Tales from the City and Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda.

The Ones We Burn by Rebecca Mix
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Love and duty collide in this richly imagined, atmospheric young adult debut about a witch whose dark powers put her at the center of a brewing war between the only family she’s ever known and the enemy who makes her question everything.

We Deserve Monuments by Jas Hammonds
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Family secrets, a swoon-worthy romance, and a slow-burn mystery collide in We Deserve Monuments, a YA debut from Jas Hammonds that explores how racial violence can ripple down through generations.

Astrid Parker Doesn’t Fail by Ashley Herring Blake
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An interior designer who is never without the perfect plan learns to renovate her love life without one in this new romantic comedy by Ashley Herring Blake, author of Delilah Green Doesn’t Care.

Never Ever Getting Back Together by Sophie Gonzales
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A girl enters a reality dating competition to get revenge on her cheating, royal-adjacent ex-boyfriend, and ends up falling for another girl on the show—in fact, the girl he cheated on her with.

Wicked Little Things by Justin Arnold
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Silver in the Mist by Emily Victoria
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Eight years ago, everything changed for Devlin: Her country was attacked. Her father was killed. And her mother became the Whisperer of Aris, the head of the spies, retreating into her position away from everyone… even her daughter.

A Million to One by Adiba Jaigirdar
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Adiba Jaigirdar, author of one of Time‘s Best YA books of all time, gives Titanic an Ocean’s 8 makeover in this nail-biting heist set onboard the infamous ship.

Do you have any other recommendations? Tell us in the comments below!

The post You Need These Upcoming 2022 Queer Book Releases To End The Year appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Last we heard of Ben and Arthur, they amicably said goodbye as Arthur headed back home and Ben stayed in New York, both promising to stay in touch. Now, two years later, Arthur’s about to return to New York for the chance of a lifetime—interning for a Lambda Award-winning playwright and finally living his Broadway dreams. The only downside is having to leave behind his super sweet boyfriend Mikey. While Ben has been busy working on his fantasy manuscript in college (and getting busy with his writing partner Mario), he can’t help old feelings rising up when he finally sees Arthur again. Two years, multiple heartbreaks, missed chances and yet, the universe seems determined to drive them back together time and again. As Ben and Arthur try to focus on their respective future, they can’t help contemplating the past. Things didn’t work out the first time for them and anyway, they’re happy now. Really happy. Yet, the thought still keeps popping up: what if they’re actually meant to be? And what are they going to do about it? Is a future even worth pursuing when they can’t help being stuck in the past? Or is it time to give their epic love story one more chapter?

After all, what’s fate really worth if you don’t have enough faith in it?

After bingeing this book in one sitting, all I can say is: gosh, I really missed Ben and Arthur. These characters are so real to me, reading Here’s to Us felt like catching up with a friend you haven’t seen since university. It’s weird to say that I have a soft spot for both Ben and Arthur, but that’s the way it is. I loved how their individual energy once again worked harmoniously with each other. Arthur is so obsessed with firsts—from first loves and first heartbreaks, to first impressions with new bosses. His anxiety to be worth the time people give him is something so visceral, you can’t help wanting to hug him and tell him that everything is going to be alright. Meanwhile, Ben’s financial struggles already made him way too relatable in the first book but in this one, the feeling of kinship was even stronger. Without spoiling too much, we really get to see Ben maturing, not only from his stance on money, shame of not having enough, and pursuing his novel publication to get his big break, but also in how stuck he feels in New York, this city that seems like a dream to tourists but to him has, over the years, often felt like something that’s actively trying to hold him back. Tied into that is the fact that Ben tried and is stilly trying to navigate being a white-passing Puerto Rican and feeling ashamed for not knowing how to speak Spanish or more about his roots. In Here’s to Us, this is wonderfully explored and adds so much to the overall story.

Ben and Arthur’s support system is also as lively and lovely as you expect them to be. From Dylan being, well, Dylan, to Samantha and Jessie and even Ben’s parents, you can feel the love (and exasperation) that comes with knowing someone for that long. There’s also a plot twist regarding said friends which I did not see coming but, which in hindsight, was so blaringly obvious that I want to reread it already just to feel like more of a dumbass. Ben and Arthur’s respective partners Mario and Mikey are absolute sweethearts. Like, the kind of partners you wish for and the kind of generous souls you don’t think you ever deserve. There are small and grand gestures that, whether you’re a Ben/Arthur shipper or not, will steal your heart.

As you can tell, all the elements that made What If It’s Us such a raging success are alive and kicking in Here’s to Us and yet, this book manages to somehow put a cherry on top of that and make the story even grander.

At its core, Here’s to Us is about transitions and transformations. It’s about growing up and realising that the scariest thing is that, while some things are meant to be, some things are meant to fall apart. If you head into this book expecting a picture-perfect second-chance romance with all the fluff and no conflicts whatsoever, you might not be getting what you wished for. Instead, Albertalli and Silvera offer up something even more compelling: an unflinching portrayal of what it means to grow up and re-evaluate your life choices in terms of what will make you happy, not everyone around you.

Anyone who’s ever tried to stay friends with an ex—in particular those you still have some unresolved feelings for—will undoubtedly relate to Ben and Arthur’s struggles throughout this novel. It’s a difficult balance, trying to be happy for your ex for having found the kind of love you wished for the both of you without feeling like you were somehow inferior to the new partner because, if it works out for them, why didn’t it work out for you in the past, am I right? It’s an entirely other level of emotional anguish to liking your ex-boyfriend’s new partner yet quietly wondering what that means for the worth of your past relationship. Albertalli and Silvera already excelled at this heady potion of anxiety, excitement and contemplation of self-worth in What If It’s Us, but in the sequel, it’s almost like they let go of whatever ties held them back and dove straight into the depths of emotions a young person in love can have, where every choice feels monumental and every heartbreak feels more like an ongoing condition than a clean cut.

What is going to probably be an unpopular opinion is that I really loved that the authors didn’t give their characters a pass when it comes to certain choices they make. The authors put a lot of focus on Ben and Arthur learning that you can’t please everyone and that, even with the best of intentions, you won’t always be able to walk away from a conflict or life choice without hurting someone you care about. It’s scary to realise that, as you grow older, the decisions you have to make get tougher and that, even when you do the right thing, it’s going to hurt like a bullet.

There is also something to be said for timing in this story. Sometimes timing just isn’t on your side—whether it’s about getting the person you want, the job you desire, or the big break you so desperately seek. Albertalli and Silvera don’t cut corners for Ben and Arthur and their ambitions and, yes, while that may be hard to read at times, it’s also what makes the payoff when something great happens for either of them that much more impactful. It’s a hard lesson to learn that you sometimes can put in all the effort and things still won’t pan out. But it’s how you deal with that failure, with the mistakes you’ve made, that counts.

While I won’t spoil the ending, I will say this: there is so much heart in the last few chapters. It’s a satisfying yet inherently realistic ending, which, given the authors, should come as no surprise. And, as a long-time fan of both of them, all I can say is: no matter how they get there in the end, Arthur and Ben’s story (and conclusion) is one that will stay with readers for years to come. And I really, really hope this isn’t the last time Albertalli and Silvera team up because those two are a powerhouse.

An emotional tale of growing up and holding on to the people that matter, facing debilitating choices and trying your best, Here’s to Us delivers an unflinching yet hopeful follow-up to an unforgettable story.

Here’s to Us is available from Amazon, Book Depository, and other good book retailers, like your local bookstore, as of December 28th 2021.

Will you be picking up Here’s to Us? Tell us in the comments below!

Synopsis | Goodreads

Ben has spent his first year of college working on his fantasy manuscript with his writing partner Mario, who is a great Spanish tutor, and an even better kisser. So why can’t he stop thinking about the fact that Arthur’s back in town two years after they called it quits?

Arthur is in New York for a dream internship on Broadway, with a boyfriend back at home that he couldn’t be happier with. But when he comes upon Ben cuddled up with a mystery boy, he starts to wonder if his feelings for Ben ever truly went away.

Even as the boys try to focus on their futures, they can’t seem to help running into each other in the present. Is the universe forcing them to question if they’re actually meant to be?

Possibly not. After all, things didn’t work the first time around.
Possibly yes. After all, the sparks are still flying.
Sometimes you just have to take a leap of faith and raise a glass.

Here’s to celebrating old friends!
Here’s to embracing new beginnings!
Here’s to believing in second chances!

The post Review: Here’s To Us by Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Out of Character by Annabeth Albert
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Red, White & Royal Blue meets Fangirl in this heartwarming romcom where two former friends strike an unlikely bargain that could lead to more than either expected.

Flash Fire by TJ Klune
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In the second installment in this hilarious contemporary fantasy trilogy, Nick has landed himself the superhero boyfriend of his dreams but with new heroes arriving in Nova City it’s up to Nick and his friends to determine who is a friend or a foe.

Rise to the Sun by Leah Johnson
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From the author of You Should See Me in a Crown comes another stunning novel about being brave enough to be true to yourself, and learning to find joy even when times are unimaginably dark. Packed with irresistible romance, Rise to the Sun is a cinematic story about grief, love and the remarkable power of music to heal and connect us all.

What We Devour by Linsey Miller
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Beauty and the Beast meets Wicked Saints in this standalone dark fantasy from the author of Mask of Shadows duology and Belle Révolte.

Cheer Up: Love and Pompoms by Crystal Frasier, illustrated by Val Wise
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Annie, a smart anti-social lesbian involuntarily joins the cheerleader squad to make friends and reconnects with her former friend BeeBee, a trans girl who must keep her parents happy to keep their support of her transition. Sparks fly when the two rekindle their friendship and realize just how much they’ve been missing each other.

Fresh by Margot Wood
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Some students enter their freshman college year knowing exactly what they want to do with their lives. Elliot McHugh is not one of those people. Fresh is all about Elliot’s hilarious yet flawed experiences during freshman year.

The Dead and the Dark by Courtney Gould
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A YA supernatural thriller about two girls who fall in love when they team up to stop an evil presence terrorizing a smalltown – a story about the things that lurk in the dark, the parts of you that can’t remain hidden and about finding home in places – and people – you didn’t expect.

Anything but Fine by Tobias Madden
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Anything but Fine is about a teenage ballet dancer who breaks his foot and begins to question everything he once took for granted, including his relationship with the dreamy, perfect-in-every-way, and seemingly straight captain of the rowing team.

The Hollow Heart by Marie Rutkoski
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Intrigue, romance and magic abound in this heart-stopping conclusion to Marie Rutkoski’s Forgotten Gods duology.

The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochrun
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n this witty and heartwarming romantic comedy—reminiscent of Red, White & Royal Blue and One to Watch—an awkward tech wunderkind on a reality dating show goes off-script when sparks fly with his producer.

The City Beautiful by Aden Polydoros
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David Levithan meets Thirteen Doorways, Wolves Behind Them All in this haunting standalone historical fantasy that follows a young, queer Jewish immigrant who is possessed by the evil spirit of his murdered best friend and is catapulted into a deadly hunt for a serial killer terrorizing Chicago during the World’s Fair of 1893.

Under the Whispering Door by TJ Klune
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 A Man Called Ove meets The Good Place in this delightful new queer love story from TJ Klune, author of the New York Times and USA Today bestseller The House in the Cerulean Sea. By turns heartwarming and heartbreaking, this absorbing tale of grief and hope is told Klune’s signature warmth, humor and extraordinary empathy.

Aristotle and Dante Dive into the Waters of the World
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The highly anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed, multiple award-winning novel Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe is an achingly romantic, tender tale sure to captivate fans of Adam Silvera and Mary H.K. Choi. 

The Insiders by Mark Oshiro
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Award-winning YA author Mark Oshiro makes their middle grade debut in this queer coming-of-age story about three kids who don’t belong, a room that shouldn’t exist, and the year that will change everything.

City of Shattered Light by Claire Winn
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In this YA sci-fi, an heiress flees her controlling father to prevent her test-subject sister’s mind from being reprogrammed—but must ally with a smuggler to outwit a monstrous AI, gravity-shifting gladiatorial pits, and bloodthirsty criminal matriarchs to save her sister and their city.

Tink and Wendy by Kelly Ann Jacobson
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What happens when Tinker Bell is in love with both Peter Pan and Wendy? In this sparkling re-imagining of Peter Pan, Peter and Wendy’s granddaughter Hope Darling finds the reclusive Tinker Bell squatting at the Darling mansion in order to care for the graves of her two lost friends after a love triangle gone awry. 

Spin Me Right Round by David Valdes
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A sharp, funny YA debut that’s Back to the Future with a twist, as a gay teen travels back in time to save a closeted classmate’s life.

Briar Girls by Rebecca Kim Wells
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Cursed to kill all those she touches, Lena endures an isolated life on the run from her fellow humans. But when an enigmatic stranger offers to help her break the curse in exchange for her aid in waking a princess hidden in an enchanted forest, Lena embarks on a quest to win her freedom, no matter the cost.

Grimrose Girls by Laura Pohl
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The Descendants meets Pretty Little Liars. Four troubled friends, One murdered girl… and a dark fate that may leave them all doomed.

The Reckless Kind by Carly Heath
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A genre-defying debut, this queer historical YA centers a wild and reckless trio who fly in the face of small town tradition—full of compassion, love, and determination to live the lives of their choosing.

If This Gets Out by Sophie Gonzales and Cale Dietrich
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

For fans of What If It’s Us: two boys in America’s biggest boy band fall for each other while on their first sold-out European tour, and are forced to keep their relationship a secret.

The Midnight Girls by Alicia Jasinska
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The Wicked Deep meets House of Salt and Sorrows in this new standalone YA fantasy set in a snow-cloaked kingdom where witches are burned, and two enchantresses secretly compete for the heart of a prince, only to discover that they might be falling for each other.

Here’s to Us by Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera reunite to continue the story of Arthur and Ben, the boys readers first fell for in the New York Times bestselling rom-com What If It’s Us.

The Coldest Touch by Isabel Sterling
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Elise, a mortal girl who feels the death of anyone she touches, and Claire, the vampire assigned to recruit her for the Order, as they team up to stop a paranormal killer and realize they might be falling in love.

What queer books have you picked up in the second half of the year or are looking forward to? Tell us in the comments below!

The post You Need These New 2021 Queer Book Releases To End The Year appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

With half of 2021 almost behind us, it’s now time to start looking towards the next six months, and more importantly, the new books releasing between July and December 2021! Your to-buy lists are about to become even longer as it’s packed with books you’ll want to have your hands on ASAP from debut authors, as well as releases from some favourites, including Elizabeth Lim, Benjamin Alire Sáenz, Samantha Downing, Anthony Ryan, TJ Klune, and so many more!

Read on to discover a few of our picks and be sure to tell us in the comments if you are looking forward to any of them too, plus stay tuned for our genre specific round-ups!

JULY 2021

The Final Girl Support Group by Grady Hendrix
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A fast-paced, thrilling horror novel that follows a group of heroines to die for, from the brilliant New York Times bestselling author of The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires.

It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey
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Tessa Bailey is back with a Schitt’s Creek-inspired rom-com about a Hollywood “It Girl” who is cut off from her wealthy family and exiled to a small Pacific Northwest beach town… where she butts heads with a surly, sexy local who thinks she doesn’t belong. 

She Who Became the Sun by Shelley Parker-Chan
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Mulan meets The Song of Achilles in Shelley Parker-Chan’s She Who Became the Sun, a bold, queer, and lyrical reimagining of the rise of the founding emperor of the Ming Dynasty from an amazing new voice in literary fantasy.

Six Crimson Cranes by Elizabeth Lim
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A princess in exile, a shapeshifting dragon, six enchanted cranes, and an unspeakable curse… Drawing from fairy tales and East Asian folklore, this original fantasy from the author of Spin the Dawn is perfect for fans of Shadow and Bone.

The Forest of Vanishing Stars by Kristin Harmel
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The New York Times bestselling author of the The Book of Lost Names returns with an evocative coming-of-age World War II story about a young woman who uses her knowledge of the wilderness to help Jewish refugees escape the Nazis—until a secret from her past threatens everything.

These Hollow Vows by Lexi Ryan
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From New York Times best-selling author Lexi Ryan, Cruel Prince meets A Court of Thorns and Roses in this sexy, action-packed fantasy about a girl who is caught between two treacherous faerie courts and their dangerously seductive princes.

A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers
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In A Psalm for the Wild-Built, Hugo Award-winner Becky Chambers’s delightful new Monk & Robot series gives us hope for the future.

For Your Own Good by Samantha Downing
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USA Today bestselling author Samantha Downing is back with her latest sneaky thriller set at a prestigious private school—complete with interfering parents, overeager students, and one teacher who just wants to teach them all a lesson…

AUGUST 2021

The Dead and the Dark by Courtney Gould
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Courtney Gould’s thrilling debut The Dead and the Dark is about the things that lurk in dark corners, the parts of you that can’t remain hidden, and about finding home in places―and people―you didn’t expect.

Cheer Up: Love and Pompoms by Crystal Frasier
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A sweet, queer teen romance perfect for fans of Heartstopper and Check, Please!

The Pariah by Anthony Ryan
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The Pariah begins a new epic fantasy series of action, intrigue and magic from Anthony Ryan, a master storyteller who has taken the fantasy world by storm.

Once There Were Wolves by Charlotte McConaghy
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From the author of the beloved national bestseller Migrations, a #1 IndieNext pick, a gorgeous and pulse-pounding new novel set in the wild Scottish Highlands.

Battle Royal by Lucy Parker
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Beloved author Lucy Parker pens a delicious new romantic comedy that is a battle of whisks and wits.

Velvet Was the Night by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
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From the New York Times bestselling author of Mexican Gothic comes a “delicious, twisted treat for lovers of noir” about a daydreaming secretary, a lonesome enforcer, and the mystery of a missing woman they’re both desperate to find.

How Moon Fuentez Fell in Love with the Universe by Raquel Vasquez Gilliland
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The Hating Game meets I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter in this irresistible romance starring a Mexican American teen who discovers love and profound truths about the universe when she spends her summer on a road trip across the country.

The Desert Prince by Peter V. Brett
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A brand-new epic fantasy adventure set in the beloved world of the Demon Cycle, following a new generation of heroes, from New York Times bestselling author Peter V. Brett

SEPTEMBER 2021

Vespertine by Margaret Rogerson
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From the New York Times bestselling author of Sorcery of Thorns and An Enchantment of Ravens comes a thrilling new YA fantasy about a teen girl with mythic abilities who must defend her world against restless spirits of the dead.

Beautiful World, Where Are You by Sally Rooney
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Beautiful World, Where Are You is a new novel by Sally Rooney, the bestselling author of Normal People and Conversations With Friends.

The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochrun
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In this witty and heartwarming romantic comedy—reminiscent of Red, White & Royal Blue and One to Watch—an awkward tech wunderkind on a reality dating show goes off-script when sparks fly with his producer.

Under the Whispering Door by T.J. Klune
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A Man Called Ove meets The Good Place in Under the Whispering Door, a delightful queer love story from TJ Klune, author of the New York Times and USA Today bestseller The House in the Cerulean Sea.

Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao
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Pacific Rim meets The Handmaid’s Tale in this blend of Chinese history and mecha science fiction for YA readers.

Nice Girls by Catherine Dang
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A pulse-pounding and deviously dark debut, written with the psychological acuity and emotional punch of Luckiest Girl Alive and All the Missing Girls, that explores the hungry, angry, dark side of girlhood and dares to ask what is most dangerous to a woman: showing the world what it wants to see, or who she really is?

Harlem Shuffle by Colson Whitehead
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From the two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning author of The Underground Railroad and The Nickel Boys, a gloriously entertaining novel of heists, shakedowns, and rip-offs set in Harlem in the 1960s.

Empire of the Vampire by Jay Kristoff
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From the New York Times bestselling author of the Nevernight Chronicle, Jay Kristoff, comes Empire of the Vampire, the first illustrated volume of an astonishing new dark fantasy saga.

OCTOBER 2021

Aristotle and Dante Dive into the Waters of the World by Benjamin Alire Sáenz
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The highly anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed, multiple award-winning novel Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe is an achingly romantic, tender tale sure to captivate fans of Adam Silvera and Mary H.K. Choi.

All the Feels by Olivia Dade
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Following Spoiler Alert, Olivia Dade returns with another utterly charming romantic comedy about a devil-may-care actor—who actually cares more than anyone knows—and the no-nonsense woman hired to keep him in line.

A Spindle Splintered by Alix E. Harrow
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USA Today bestselling author Alix E. Harrow’s A Spindle Splintered brings her patented charm to a new version of a classic story.

The Mother Next Door by Tara Laskowski
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From award-winning author Tara Laskowski, The Mother Next Door is an atmospheric novel of domestic suspense in which the strive for perfection ends in murder…

Nothing But Blackened Teeth by Cassandra Khaw
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Cassandra Khaw’s Nothing But Blackened Teeth is a gorgeously creepy haunted house tale, steeped in Japanese folklore and full of devastating twists.

City of Shattered Light by Claire Winn
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As darkness closes in on the city of shattered light, an heiress and an outlaw must decide whether to fend for themselves or fight for each other.

Grave Reservations by Cherie Priest
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A psychic travel agent and a Seattle PD detective solve a murder in this quirky mystery in the vein of Lisa Lutz’s The Spellman Files and Charlaine Harris’s Aurora Teagarden series.

Payback’s a Witch by Lana Harper
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Chilling Adventures of Sabrina meets The L Word in this fresh, sizzling rom-com by Lana Harper.

NOVEMBER 2021

Her Name is Knight by Yasmin Angoe
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A smash debut novel from rising star Yasmin Angoe, Her Name Is Knight features an elite assassin heroine on a mission to topple a human trafficking ring and avenge her family.

Noor by Nnedi Okorafor
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From africanfuturist luminary Okorafor comes a new science fiction novel of intense action and thoughtful rumination on biotechnology, destiny, and humanity in a near-future Nigeria.

A Marvellous Light by Freya Marske
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Red White & Royal Blue meets Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell in debut author Freya Marske’s A Marvellous Light, featuring an Edwardian England full of magic, contracts, and conspiracies.

All of Us Villains by Amanda Foody and Christine Lynn Herman
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The blockbuster co-writing debut of Amanda Foody and Christine Lynn Herman, All of Us Villains begins a dark tale of ambition and magick…

You Can Go Your Own Way by Eric Smith
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When a huge snowstorm hits, Adam and Whitney suddenly find themselves trapped inside the arcade. Cut off from their families, their worlds, and their responsibilities, the tension between them seems to melt away, leaving something else in its place. But what happens when the storm stops?

Never Fall for Your Fiancée by Virginia Heath
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The first in a new historical rom-com series, a handsome earl hires a fake fiancée to keep his matchmaking mother at bay, but hilarity ensues when love threatens to complicate everything.

Blue-Skinned Gods by S.J. Sindu
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From the award-winning author of Marriage of a Thousand Lies comes a brilliantly written, globe-spanning novel about identity, faith, family, and sexuality.

Everything We Didn’t Say by Nicole Baart
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From the author of Little Broken Things, a “race-to-the-finish family drama” (People) following a mother who must confront the dark summer that changed her life forever in order to reclaim the daughter she left behind.

DECEMBER 2021

If This Gets Out by Sophie Gonzales and Cale Dietrich
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Sophie Gonzales and Cale Dietrich’s “If This Gets Out is an absolute showstopper! Equal parts edgy and adorable, this bright, joyful book has everything I look for in a queer YA romance.” ―Phil Stamper, bestselling author of The Gravity of Us

A History of Wild Places by Shea Ernshaw
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The New York Times bestselling author of The Wicked Deep weaves a richly atmospheric adult debut following three residents of a secluded, seemingly peaceful commune as they investigate the disappearances of two outsiders.

The Midnight Girls by Alicia Jasinska
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The Wicked Deep meets House of Salt and Sorrows in this new standalone YA fantasy set in a snow-cloaked kingdom where witches are burned, and two enchantresses secretly compete for the heart of a prince, only to discover that they might be falling for each other.

Absynthe by Brendan Bellecourt
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In his sci-fi debut, Bellecourt explores an alternate roaring 20s where a shell-shocked soldier must uncover latent telepathic abilities to save himself and the people around him.

Safecracker by Ryan Wick
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In this wicked debut, safecracker Michael Maven must pull off the most dangerous theft of his long career–or his friends and family will be killed.

Here’s to Us by Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera reunite to continue the story of Arthur and Ben, the boys readers first fell for in the New York Times bestselling rom-com What If It’s Us.

Smile and Look Pretty by Amanda Pellegrino
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A whip-smart, piercing debut novel, Smile and Look Pretty follows four assistants who band together to take on their toxic office environments in the ultimate comeuppance.

I Know Your Secret by Daphne Benedis-Grab
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

One of Us is Lying meets Pretty Little Liars for middle-grade readers.

What 2021 releases are you looking forward to releasing between July and December? Tell us in the comments below!

The post Get Your Hands On These Anticipated July To December 2021 Book Releases appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Do you sigh loudly every now and then, wondering if you will ever find a book as perfect as the one about a sassy First Son falling in love with a seemingly uptight Prince of Wales and their adorable hijinks that reads like a perfect NA rom-com of our time? If you are like me, then your answer is a resounding YES!

Well, I have a little treat for you! Here are five book recommendations (some you will already find on the bookstore shelves and some are only coming out this year) that will cure your Red, White and Royal Blue crave with an abundance of adorable characters, epic love stories, and grand gestures!

Boyfriend Material by Alexis Hall

The first must-read book for all fans of the dashing Alex and Henry is definitely Boyfriend Material, a book that includes all the most beloved tropes, from fake dating to “there was only one bed” and it will draw you in instantly! When Luc, the ‘kind of famous’ son of an old rock legend, is put on the spot for a terrible misunderstanding, he can do one of two things: give up on his job or salvage his reputation by appearing in public with a respectable young man. In comes Oliver, a straightforward barrister and the perfect fake boyfriend. The only problem? They have nothing in common and can’t stand each other. Nevertheless they decide to stick together for the sake of the image… or is there more hiding behind their snarky comments and endless banter?

Playing the Palace by Paul Rudnick

The beauty that is Playing the Palace comes out on May 25th, but based on what we know so far it’ll be one hell of a rom-com where we root tirelessly for the main couple! When the lonely American event planner Carter stumbled upon the openly gay Prince Edgar, he never dreamed that the fairytale prince could really like him back. But when the chemistry proves to be more than the figment of Carter’s imagination, the two men are quickly thrown into the media thunderstorm where everyone has an opinion on the budding romance and the Queen of England disapproves of Edgar’s objet d’amour. Can they reach their happily ever after despite the whole world breathing down their necks?

What If It’s Us by Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera

This cute and wholesome romance that takes place in New York will convince you with its relatable characters, lots of drama, and heart-to-hearts! When Arthur, a believer in grand romances, unexpectedly meets Ben at the post office, he is smitten straight away. But their meet-cute gets cut short when they are separated. Is that it for their “what if” or does the universe have bigger plans for the two boys? Arthur is determined to find out and make his Summer in New York unforgettable even if he has to jump through a few hoops along the way.

Buckle in for the kind of romance everyone dreams of with some awkward encounters that make the story that much more fun and infinite.

Her Royal Highness by Rachel Hawkins

Are you looking for a beautiful Red, White and Royal Blue-like romance but make it sapphic? If your answer was an enthusiastic YES then Her Royal Highness is for you! When Millie finds out her girlfriend is not who she thought, she decides that the only logical solution is to get as far away from her as possible even if that means applying to a fancy boarding school in Scotland. Millie is delighted upon receiving her acceptance letter and Scotland seems like everything she could’ve asked for until she realises that she’ll be sharing her dorm room with a princess. Flora is arrogant and high-maintenance and definitely not Millie’s type. Or is she? As the girls start growing closer, an age-old question gnaws at their blooming love: do happily ever afters actually exist?

American Royals by Katharine McGee

If your middle name is “loves drama” then American Royals is the book for you! In this fun YA contemporary we meet the American royal family and more specifically, the new generation of royals. Princess Beatrice has been preparing her whole life to one day take over the throne. But when she realises that the price the crown demands is love, she starts to wonder if this is really what she’s destined for. Can she forsake her heart and marry for the political alliance? Her soon-to-be husband is sweet, but he might also be in love with her younger sister Samantha. And let’s not forget about the dashing prince Jefferson, America’s sweetheart, caught between two women. Dive into the messy secrets of the American royal family and enjoy the wild (and emotional) ride!  

Do you have any other recommendations? Tell us in the comments below!

The post 5 Books For Your TBR If You Still Can’t Get Over ‘Red, White and Royal Blue’ appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Adam Silvera is a known master of the YA contemporary genre and has reigned supreme (in my humble opinion) for many years. In 2020 he released into the world his first published fantasy work with Infinity Son, the first book in the Infinity Cycle series. The series is an urban fantasy set in NYC and it tells the story of brothers, Emil and Brighton, as they come to terms with the discovery that Emil is a phoenix. Emil struggles to understand his powers and Brighton is overwhelmed by jealousy. What follows is action and adventure for these two brothers and readers were left hanging from their fingertips clinging to life at the end. Infinity Reaper is the second installment in this series and was a whirlwind read from the start.

Infinity Reaper jumps right back into the action at the conclusion of Infinity Son. There is no summarising chapter or paragraph to recap the actions of the last book and instead it sends the reader hurtling along with Emil and Brighton as they deal with the aftermath. It was unique to read a sequel that offered no summary of its predecessor, but it was cleverly supported by a glossary at the very start to refresh readers’ minds of who is who in this alternate universe world. While the glossary was helpful in refreshing my memory of all the characters in this world, it made the reading experience a bit disjointed and took away some of the flow from the story. There is a lack of worldbuilding carried over from the first book and this left the first few chapters a bit lacking for me, but overall as I became more in tune with the world again, I warmed up quickly to both the characters and the situations.

Adam Silvera is a genius of the human condition. His characters have depth and soul and could be easily transported from the page into reality. Infinity Reaper is no different. The complex relationships between characters are ever present and are truly one of the highlights of the book for me. The way he has intertwined the relationships of this rag tag group of reluctant heroes is seamless.

The character dynamics also shine throughout as different characters interact with one another in both positive and negative ways. Brighton was very unlikeable in Infinity Son but the way he cares for Emil throughout this series is a pure example of sibling relationships. You can both love them completely and feel utter jealousy and despair at the same time and it is all wrapped up in a confusing familial bow. Watching these boys struggle to save themselves and each other throughout Infinity Reaper felt raw and real and was one of the most enjoyable dynamics in the book. Each boy also experiences confusing romantic interactions in this book with Brighton finally confessing his feelings for Pru and Emil struggling with his feelings for Ness and the new somewhat platonic relationship he has developed with Wyatt. I could honestly read about these characters all day and never get sick of them.

While Brighton is overall unlikeable due to his arrogance and obsession for power, Infinity Reaper did show readers another side to this angst-ridden, antihero, and at times I really felt for him as he struggled with the consequences of his actions. His character arc has moments of both good and evil and I really look forward to seeing where he ends up in the end.

Representation! This is something I adore about Silvera’s work. His use of including representation for minority groups and the LGBTQ+ community is a natural thing and doesn’t just include a gay main character for the sake of having one. The representation within Infinity Reaper is inclusive and varying. Silvera also includes a nod to body image in young men which is a drastically untalked about issue in our society and the finesse and care he takes in these issues shows how much respect the author has for these communities.

As with any great fantasy, Infinity Reaper is full of action as the team takes on many battles with the blood casters, their allies and even members of the government. It is incredibly difficult to create realistic action in a fantasy where there are literal phoenixes but Silvera takes this in his stride and provides real and accurate consequences and results based on his fantastical action. When characters are injured they need time to heal and when their powers are affected they need time to regroup and regenerate before jumping into the fray again.

The Infinity Cycle is a series that just keeps getting better. Silvera has really found his stride in this book and I enjoyed it more than its predecessor, Infinity Son. My heart completely belongs to Emil and I am anxiously awaiting the next book to see where he goes from here. If you are looking for an urban fantasy with sensational characters, action, and a habit of leaving you on the edge of your seat, The Infinity Cycle is for you and as you partake in this journey, it just gets better and better.

Infinity Reaper is available from Amazon, Book Depository, and other good book retailers, like your local bookstore, as of March 2nd 2021.

Will you be picking up Infinity Reaper? Tell us in the comments below!

Synopsis | Goodreads

Emil and Brighton Rey defied the odds. They beat the Blood Casters and escaped with their lives–or so they thought. When Brighton drank the Reaper’s Blood, he believed it would make him invincible, but instead the potion is killing him.

In Emil’s race to find an antidote that will not only save his brother but also rid him of his own unwanted phoenix powers, he will have to dig deep into the very past lives he’s trying to outrun. Though he needs the help of the Spell Walkers now more than ever, their ranks are fracturing, with Maribelle’s thirst for revenge sending her down a dangerous path.

Meanwhile, Ness is being abused by Senator Iron for political gain, his rare shifting ability making him a dangerous weapon. As much as Ness longs to send Emil a signal, he knows the best way to keep Emil safe from his corrupt father is to keep him at a distance.

The battle for peace is playing out like an intricate game of chess, and as the pieces on the board move into place, Emil starts to realize that he may have been competing against the wrong enemy all along.

The post Review: Infinity Reaper by Adam Silvera appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Every year, from September 15th to October 15th, the USA celebrates Hispanic Americans for their contribution to, well, everything really. With the internet, Hispanic Heritage Month has taken over the world and it’s possible for everyone everywhere to join in with the celebrations.

That being said, a lot of Hispanic achievements have been made in our favourite world: the literary one. In recent years, we have gotten more and more books with Hispanic characters written by Hispanic authors. And while the Hispanic representation is a long way from where it should be, I would like to share with you some of my favourite YA books featuring Hispanic characters and written by Hispanic authors.

I will say though, that I am personally white and that the representation in these books seemed great to me. I chose these with upmost care and hope that our Hispanic readers agree with these choices and will let me know if I have made a mistake as I am here to listen and to learn.

Happy Hispanic Heritage Month and happy reading!

Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas

Yadriel has summoned a ghost, and now he can’t get rid of him.

When his traditional Latinx family has problems accepting his true gender, Yadriel becomes determined to prove himself a real brujo. With the help of his cousin and best friend Maritza, he performs the ritual himself, and then sets out to find the ghost of his murdered cousin and set it free.

However, the ghost he summons is actually Julian Diaz, the school’s resident bad boy, and Julian is not about to go quietly into death. He’s determined to find out what happened and tie off some loose ends before he leaves. Left with no choice, Yadriel agrees to help Julian, so that they can both get what they want. But the longer Yadriel spends with Julian, the less he wants to let him leave.

This Train is Being Held by Ismée Williams

When private school student Isabelle Warren first meets Dominican-American Alex Rosario on the downtown 1 train, she remembers his green eyes and his gentlemanly behavior. He remembers her untroubled happiness, something he feels all rich kids must possess. That, and her long dancer legs. Over the course of multiple subway encounters spanning the next three years, Isabelle learns of Alex’s struggle with his father, who is hell-bent on Alex being a contender for the major leagues, despite Alex’s desire to go to college and become a poet. Alex learns about Isabelle’s unstable mother, a woman with a prejudice against Latino men. But fate—and the 1 train—throw them together when Isabelle needs Alex most.

Salty, Bitter, Sweet by Mayra Cuevas

Seventeen-year-old aspiring chef Isabella Fields’ family life has fallen apart after the death of her Cuban abuela and the divorce of her parents. She moves in with her dad and his new wife in France, where Isabella feels like an outsider in her father’s new life, studiously avoiding the awkward, “Why did you cheat on Mom?” conversation.

The upside of Isabella’s world being turned upside down? Her father’s house is located only 30 minutes away from the restaurant of world-famous Chef Pascal Grattard, who runs a prestigious and competitive international kitchen apprenticeship. The prize job at Chef Grattard’s renowned restaurant also represents a transformative opportunity for Isabella, who is desperate to get her life back in order.

But how can Isabella expect to hold it together when she’s at the bottom of her class at the apprenticeship, her new stepmom is pregnant, she misses her abuela dearly, and a mysterious new guy and his albino dog fall into her life?

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

Aristotle is an angry teen with a brother in prison. Dante is a know-it-all who has an unusual way of looking at the world. When the two meet at the swimming pool, they seem to have nothing in common. But as the loners start spending time together, they discover that they share a special friendship–the kind that changes lives and lasts a lifetime. And it is through this friendship that Ari and Dante will learn the most important truths about themselves and the kind of people they want to be.

Sia Martinez and the Moonlit Beginning of Everything by Raquel Vasquez Gilliland

It’s been three years since ICE raids and phone calls from Mexico and an ill-fated walk across the Sonoran. Three years since Sia Martinez’s mom disappeared. Sia wants to move on, but it’s hard in her tiny Arizona town where people refer to her mom’s deportation as “an unfortunate incident.”

Sia knows that her mom must be dead, but every new moon Sia drives into the desert and lights San Anthony and la Guadalupe candles to guide her mom home.

Then one night, under a million stars, Sia’s life and the world as we know it cracks wide open. Because a blue-lit spacecraft crashes in front of Sia’s car…and it’s carrying her mom, who’s very much alive.

As Sia races to save her mom from armed-quite-possibly-alien soldiers, she uncovers secrets as profound as they are dangerous in this stunning and inventive exploration of first love, family, immigration, and our vast, limitless universe. 

More Happy than Not by Adam Silvera

Sixteen-year-old Aaron Soto is struggling to find happiness after a family tragedy leaves him reeling. He’s slowly remembering what happiness might feel like this summer with the support of his girlfriend Genevieve, but it’s his new best friend, Thomas, who really gets Aaron to open up about his past and confront his future.

As Thomas and Aaron get closer, Aaron discovers things about himself that threaten to shatter his newfound contentment. A revolutionary memory-alteration procedure, courtesy of the Leteo Institute, might be the way to straighten himself out. But what if it means forgetting who he truly is?

A Cuban Girl’s Guide to Tea and Tomorrow by Laura Taylor Namey

Teenage master of Cuban cuisine, Lila Reyes, is eager to inherit her family’s Miami bakery along with her sister, Pilar. But between spring and graduation, Lila’s abuela dies, her best friend abandons her, and her long-time boyfriend dumps her. Fearing Lila’s emotional health, her parents defy her wishes and entrust her summer to family and their Winchester, England inn. Even though she’s given a space to cook at the inn, she longs for Miami, the seat of her Cuban roots. Being a Miami Cuban baker is her glorified past and destined future, forged by years of training by her loving abuela.

Days into her stay, Orion Maxwell barges into Lila’s inn kitchen with a delivery from his family’s tea shop. A nuisance at first, opposite ingredients soon learn to blend. Orion befriends Lila, introducing her to his mates and devouring her food––comida Cubana.

Orion entertains her with his mental collection of superstitions and sweeps her onto his vintage motorbike. He wraps cold, underdressed Lila in his wool cardigan and becomes her personal tour guide. His mum’s early-onset (FTD) Dementia gives Orion a unique outlook––he never asks too much of the world, accepting what he can’t control. Lila soon discovers this British boy brings empathy to her loss because he’s living his own.

Before long, Lila can’t control the route of her own heart as she begins to fall for more than a new love. England has charmed her. And a special opportunity in London tempts her. As her return ticket looms, Lila feels impossibly caught between two flags. Hearts aren’t supposed to split like this––between a beautiful boy and a beautiful family. Between exploring an uncharted future in a rich new place, and honoring Abuela’s treasured legacy.

The Truth Is by NoNiqa Ramos

Fifteen-year-old Verdad doesn’t think she has time for love. She’s still struggling to process the recent death of her best friend, Blanca; dealing with the high expectations of her hardworking Puerto Rican mother and the absence of her remarried father; and keeping everyone at a distance. But when she meets Danny, a new guy at school–who happens to be trans–all bets are off. Verdad suddenly has to deal with her mother’s disapproval of her relationship with Danny as well as her own prejudices and questions about her identity, and Danny himself, who is comfortable in his skin but keeping plenty of other secrets.

All of Us with Wings by Michelle Ruiz Keil

Seventeen-year-old Xochi is alone in San Francisco, running from her painful past: the mother who abandoned her, the man who betrayed her. Then one day, she meets Pallas, a precocious twelve-year-old who lives with her rock-star family in one of the city’s storybook Victorians. Xochi accepts a position as Pallas’s live-in governess and quickly finds her place in their household, which is relaxed and happy despite the band’s larger-than-life fame.

But on the night of the Vernal Equinox, as a concert afterparty rages in the house below, Xochi and Pallas accidentally summon a pair of ancient creatures devoted to avenging the wrongs of Xochi’s adolescence. She would do anything to preserve her new life, but with the creatures determined to exact vengeance on those who’ve hurt her, no one is safe—not the family she’s chosen, nor the one she left behind.

Do you have any other recommendations? Tell us in the comments below!

The post 9 YA Books To Read During Hispanic Heritage Month appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

The world of YA literature has been getting progressively more and more diverse (*takes out a celebratory horn and blows on it excitedly*) – starting off with more gay, lesbian, and bisexual characters. But new releases over the last couple of years are also filled with better representation of other sexual identities and orientations, including trans , ace, and demi characters, to enby love stories! We still have a long way to go, but even these slight changes in representation in YA lit gives me hope!

And that’s why I decided to put together a short list of YA characters of different sexual orientations and identities and the books they come from, plus it’s a fantastic time to discover them with Pride Month!

Gay Characters

Jack from Jack of Hearts by L.C. Rosen

Jack is an out and proud gay guy who is through worrying about stereotypes! So what if he fits into one! He likes makeup, fancy clothes, and sex and is proud of that! Jack is a very iconic gay character because he is so unapologetic about being himself and he writes a very educational column about sex for his school. Jack of Hearts is not a coming out story – this is the story of everything that comes after that. If you are looking for a fresh and unique read with chilling twists, this one might be just perfect for you!

Ronan from Call Down the Hawk ­by Maggie Stiefvater

Now Ronan is a character you probably already heard about if you love YA as he is one of the most beloved characters in the subgenre of magical realism and his love story with a certain someone is one for the ages! There are many sides to Ronan, but one of the things I find most inspiring about his story is how he reconciles his faith with his sexuality. Pick this book up if you love lyrical writing, mind-blowing plot twists, and beautiful relationships. And a quick tip – read The Raven Cycle before jumping into Call Down the Hawk!

Griffin from History Is All You Left Me by Adam Silvera

Silvera is well known for his heart-wrenching stories and this one is no exception! But while Griffin has to battle grief at losing his first love, we also get a front-row seat at him confronting both his past and present in order to move on with his life. Despite it being a sorrowful story of loss and pain that comes with it, History Is All You Left Me is also filled with hope and all the best things of being young and in love for the first time.

Lesbian Characters

Aline Penhallow from Red Scrolls of Magic by Cassandra Clare

Cassandra Clare is well known for diversity in her books, but one of her latest series, The Eldest Curses, follows a M/M and a F/F couple making it her first with LGBTQ+ main protagonists! And one of the girls in the book, Aline Penhallow, is a true firecracker and an epic heroine! We met her for the first time back in The Mortal Instruments, but this book really makes her shine!

Cameron Post from The Miseducation of Cameron Post by Emily M. Danforth

Cameron’s story is basically a classic lesbian coming-of-age story at this point. When Cameron is shipped to a conversion therapy after being found with a girl, her life is turned upside down and she starts to dig deeper and question the expectations of life. This is not only a story of the damaging reality that is conversion therapy, but also an exploration of female sexuality and a hot-take on sex and sexuality in general.

Lei from Girls of Paper and Fire by Natasha Ngan

This series was one of the most hyped ones back in 2018 and rightfully so! Lei is a strong female protagonist that has to fight against injustice and tyranny of her world, but there is also a sweet component of forbidden love woven into this rather hard-hitting story. As you follow Lei on her journey and see as she slowly realises she has feelings for her fellow king’s consort, you won’t be able to not fall in love with their powerful love story!

Bisexual Characters

Levi from Ace of Shades by Amanda Foody

Ace of Shades is a perfect read for any fans of epic plot twists and swoon-worthy characters! Levi is a leader of a notorious gang and the type of character you can’t help but adore! I sometimes jokingly say that he is basically Kaz Brekker and Jesper Fahey (both characters from Six of Crows) combined – witty, hella charming, but also cunning and ambitious. He is a joy to read about and he is a main, bisexual Black character.

Jesper Fahey and Nina Zenik from Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo

This duology is super diverse in different ways and basically anyone is able to find themselves in one of the characters! Two of the most beloved ones are naturally the bisexual legends Nina and Jesper, who slay not only with their weapons of choice but also with their charm and flirtatious ways! One of the other characters pointed this out even in the book: “…he sometimes suspected they could forgo all of Kaz’s planning and simply let Jesper and Nina flirt the entirety of Ketterdam into submission.” – Crooked Kingdom, Leigh Bardugo

Noam from The Fever King by Victoria Lee

This epic dystopian duology follows a story of a techopath Noam as he tries to navigate the treacherous ways of his corrupt government and save his people. But of course there is also a beautiful queer love story in the heart of The Fever King – a love between two boys who learn to trust and love each other despite the horrid world they grew up in.

Leah from Leah on the Offbeat by Becky Albertalli

Did someone say an epic and fluffy book about two epic bisexual queens?! If that’s what you are looking for, search no more! This beautiful Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda spin-off concentrates on Leah, Simon’s best friend, that is trying to come out to her friends and go after the girl she loves. Leah on the Offbeat is filled with cuteness interwoven with more serious topics, a mix we’ve come to expect and love from Albertalli! A perfect summer read if there ever was one!

Asexual and Demisexual Characters

Rick from Rick by Alex Gino

While not technically YA (it’s a middle grade story), Rick is the kind of story that will leave you full of hope for the better tomorrow! This middle grade book about a young boy who already knows that he is just not interested in people in that way is a wonderful and poignant story about sexuality and how there is no ‘right’ age to figure out who you are (or are not) attracted to. And how you and your feelings are valid no matter what others say.

Alice from Let’s Talk About Love by Claire Kann

Alice is prepping for a perfect summer when her girlfriend dumps her after finding out Alice is asexual. No more romantic star-gazing or bingeing favourite TV shows together, but then Takumi comes along and Alice realises she might not be as done with dating as she anticipated. There is beautiful intersectionality in this book as Alice is asexual, biromantic, and Black! Prepare to swoon with this cute YA rom-com that explains it is perfectly okay to want love but not sex. 

Felicity Montague from The Lady’s Guide to Petticoats and Piracy by Mackenzi Lee

Felicity fights for and then owns her sexuality (and her desire to become a doctor) in times when women were expected to marry young and stay quiet about it. As we follow Felicity on an adventure of her lifetime (Pirates! Dragons! Dogs!), we learn about the lives of women in the 1700s in a realistic yet hopeful manner. This is a feminist book your heart longs for with great representation as Felicity is on the asexual/aromantic spectrum!

Aled from Radio Silence by Alice Oseman

Hands down one of the sweetest characters in modern YA lit is Aled Last, the secondary main characters of Radio Silence and the creator of the famous podcast Universe City. He explains in the book that he is demisexual and that that also makes sense in terms of his relationship. The author also said before that she believes that sometime in the future Aled will come to identify as non-binary.

Non-Binary, Trans, and Gender Fluid Characters

Ben from I Wish You All the Best by Mason Deaver

Ben is a 17-year-old that gets thrown out of their house on Christmas day after they come out to their parents as non-binary. Ben is forced to move in with their estranged sister and finish their senior year at a new school, but everything is not as bleak as it seems. The main protagonists of I Wish You All the Best defy all the norms society forces on us, discovering a lot about themselves on the way, and coming out victorious! It is a realistic story of finding your voice and accepting it – sometimes sorrowful but with infinite possibilities for happiness and love.

Melissa from George by Alex Gino

Okay so I am cheating yet again by adding another gorgeous middle-grade book by Gino, but these stories of Rick and Melissa are too beautiful to pass up and perfect reads for anyone craving good asexual and trans rep! Melissa is a girl and she knows that despite what everyone else keeps telling her. And she will make other see her for who she really is… Melissa and not George! George is a truly stunning story that teaches about the power of friendship and acceptance that make even the hardest of situations bearable – especially when there are zoo and theatre and skirts involved!

Zee from The Disasters by M.K. England

The Disasters is a perfect read for all the fans of The Illumiane Files, a fast-paced space adventure with an amazing and diverse cast of characters (Bi rep! Trans rep! PoC characters! Muslim characters! Mental health rep!). I could go on and on about what a fun and adventurous book this is, but I’ll dedicate this time to screaming about the amazing trans girl medic called Zee. Her eyeliner is on point and she will kick you if you cross her. Hard.

Riley Cavanaugh from Symptoms of Being Human by Jeff Garvin

This beautiful story of coming to terms with yourself will introduce you to a snarky and rebellious teen you will inevitably fall for – without worrying about their gender! Riley is a gender fluid teen in a conservative town, finding their solace in an anonymous blog. But when the blog goes viral and Riley’s anonymity is compromised, Riley will have to decide between standing their ground or running away from everything they built with it.

Do you have any other recommendations with queer characters? Tell us in the comments below!

The post 18 YA Books With Queer Characters appeared first on The Nerd Daily.