Hi, Ciara! Thanks for taking the time to chat with us! Why don’t you tell our readers a bit about yourself?

Hi Mimi! So good to talk to you again, thanks for having me. So, I’m the author of The Falling in Love Montage, which came out last year and Not My Problem which is out in North America on the 25th of May. I like to say I’m a mental health social worker by day, writer by night and a cat enthusiast 24/7.

It’s been a turbulent time with the pandemic. What has kept you sane during these tough months? Any lifesavers that make your day a bit brighter?

I work in healthcare so I’ve been working this whole time, partly in the office and partly from home. Because of that I think the pandemic has felt a lot more ‘normal’ to me than it has for some people who haven’t been able to leave their houses. But I’ve definitely needed to destress, so I really got into building lego sets. Which feels weird but I pop on a podcast, usually Double Love (a Sweet Valley Podcast) or The Babysitters Club Club (you can guess) and bust out the lego. It helps me switch off completely.

Now onto Not My Problem! What can readers expect?

Well first off I’m thrilled to say that the Junior Library Guild has officially selected it as one of their titles for this summer, which I’m really honoured by! I think if you read and enjoyed The Falling in Love Montage, you’ll hopefully love this one too. It’s about Aideen, a girl who is good at solving other people’s problems, and she kind of inadvertently sets up a ‘social enterprise’ trading favours for an IOU that she can collect on at any time. It’s got lesbians (naturally), a boy with er, the gift of the gab let’s say, a girl who would put Paris Gellar to shame with her hectic dedication to achievement, and a PE teacher at her wit’s end. Like TFiLM it’s (hopefully) funny and sometimes heartbreaking. It does have a romantic storyline but it’s not the main focus of the story.

Not My Problem is your sophomore novel. How did your writing experience change with this new story? Was it easier/more difficult to put pen to paper for Aideen and her friends?

This was completely different. I was writing under contract for the first time which was great in some ways because I knew the book would get out there, but it was also the first time I’ve had someone waiting on me producing something from scratch. I had a lot more going on in my ‘real life’ at the time I was drafting and revising than I did when I wrote Montage, too. I was really worried I wouldn’t be able to write what I’d pitched but luckily when I got started it all came together.

Aideen is quite obsessed with ending up with Kristen Stewart (aren’t we all). Any chance that was inspired by your love for the actress? If so, how would you imagine your meet cute?

Er…so I’m not a very ‘positive thinking’ type person but in all my manuscripts (including unpublished ones) I’ve mention Kristen Stewart at least once. It’s my way of manifesting her into my life. And actually, I have some evidence that it works! In Montage I wrote that I wanted there to be a big Hollywood rom-com with Kristen Stewart in it and lo and behold The Happiest Season came about. That film was announced before Montage even came out, but I’d written that line way before that. So basically, what I’m saying is I’m an all powerful being.

You balance out Aideen’s sass and humor with a lot of tough topics Aideen deals with in her life – her mother’s alcoholism, toxic friendships, not knowing who to trust and the like. What was the toughest part of the story to get right for you?

I think I’m equally drawn to writing humour and pathos but finding the balance in the text is the tricky part. I don’t like to create villains or saints so when I write about toxic friends or parents who disappoint you, I want there to be nuance. That usually means getting feedback on whether those characters are coming across the way I intend or if they’ve veered into being two dimensional. Getting a balance of the fun, funny parts of the story and the dark parts sometimes means mixing things up too. My editor’s assistant Louisa pointed out that in the early draft of Not My Problem the humour dropped off a bit early so I was able to look at where I could make changes and shift scenes to get that balance right.

Kavi is such a show stealer in Not My Problem. Every time he showed up, I knew I was in for a good time. What inspired Kavi’s character and what were your favorite ramblings of his to write?

Kavi is a character that has been knocking around my head for years. I adore him and I’m so glad you love him too! He was in an abandoned manuscript from several years ago, and I tried to put him the early drafts of Montage but he just didn’t work there (so you got Oliver instead). I was so glad that he finally made sense for this book and I loved writing his long weird stories, though sometimes I had to rein them in a bit. I really enjoyed writing the bits about him and his brother’s ridiculous antics because you get to see why Kavi is never phased by Aideen’s shenanigans and I like getting a glimpse of his home life. It feels really warm and fuzzy.

Not My Problem has amazing pacing that would work well on the big screen. If Aideen’s story were ever to be turned into a movie, what songs would you need to be on the soundtrack?

Thank you so much! I would love to see Aideen in a film, or TV show. This is not always a popular opinion but I’d love to see what they actually change about the story. Different things work well in different mediums so it’d be so interesting to see someone else’s spin on my characters. However, my terribly shameful secret is that I know absolutely diddly squat about music so I’d have to defer to the better judgement of people like Aideen who create thematic playlists

With Not My Problem releasing soon, are you already working on another project? If so, can you share a bit about it with us?

At the minute you might say I’m refilling the well and taking a little break. I have a couple of ideas that are brewing but with everything going on I wanted to take some of the pressure off. I know some people have been super productive during the pandemic and I’m in awe of them but I’m exhausted!! I won’t wait too long though, book three will be on the horizon before you know it.

Last but not least, do you have any bookish recommendations for our readers?

Well I’m a big fan of The Loop by Ben Oliver and the sequel The Block is out now so I’m excited to get stuck into that. I love everything Misa Sugiura does and her new book Love and Other Natural Disasters is sure to be fantastic. I also have She Drives Me Crazy by Kelly Quindlen on my to-read urgently list and my copy of Ciannon Smart’s Witches Steeped in Gold literally arrived as I was writing up these responses. I would say check out Amy Beashel’s The Sky is Mine, Kat Dunn’s Dangerous Remedy and Monstrous Design and Helen Corcoran’s Queen of Coin and Whispers.

Will you be picking up Not My Problem? Tell us in the comments below!

The post Q&A: Ciara Smyth, Author of ‘Not My Problem’ appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

• Characters who use humour as a coping mechanism
• Adorable side characters who never shut up
• Weird quid-pro-quo concepts
• The slacker and the perfectionist love stories
• The “can fix everyone except herself” trope

Review:

“I have these two daydreams. One is catching my enemies in a moment when I have the upper hand and they’re embarrassed and I get to act cool and aloof. The other is doing something amazing with my life and coming back to a school reunion and rubbing it in everyone’s faces.”

What do you do when your best friend’s nemesis Meabh casually asks you to push her down the stairs so she can free up some space in her busy schedule? Well, that’s exactly the position the protagonist of Not My Problem, Aideen, finds herself in at the start of this book. And if you thought pushing someone down the stairs would be a weird favour to grant, then you’re not going to believe what else happens in Not My Problem.

This book, in short, was entertaining as hell. Smyth shined with her YA debut The Falling in Love Montage last year, but—dare I say—I enjoyed this one even more? I couldn’t for the life of me put it down because Aideen’s snark was everything. I know humour is subjective but I’d be shocked if there was someone who didn’t enjoy Aideen’s dry comments on her life and her obsession with meeting Kristen Stewart and becoming her wife. Not My Problem is non-stop action without ever dropping its pace or drawing out unnecessary scenes—everything ties in to the main points of the story beautifully.

Beyond the fun shenanigans of suddenly being the “fixer” of everyone’s pretty out there problems that Aideen just loves to tackle, this story has one of the most amazing, platonic f/m friendship I’ve read in ages. Kavi is an absolute show stealer of a guy, every scene he enters he completely takes over with his cute ramblings, hilarious anecdotes and tendency to be the most adorable boy I’ve encountered in literature. His budding friendship/partner in crime situation with Aideen was everything and I loved that even when they did fight, they actually worked on their friendship instead of letting bitter feelings get the best of them.

Now about the romance. I’m a sucker for the “fixes everyone’s lives but can’t figure out her own” trope on a good day but combine it with an adversaries-to-lovers romance and I am unstoppable in my heart-eyes to book-pages ratio. The love interest Meabh was such a relatable character. Whereas Aideen has solid reasons for why she can’t study to get good grades in school, for Meabh good grades, perfect attendance and being an overachiever means everything. Meabh wants to please her parents so desperately that she can’t just randomly drop activities from her schedule and has to get creative in how to free up some time—for example, getting pushed down the stairs to injure her ankle so she can drop her various sports for the time being. What is at once a social commentary on the pressures we put on young students to succeed is relayed in such a funny and admirable way that I think a lot of readers will wholeheartedly adore Meabh, not to mention her canoodling with Aideen. Slacker means perfectionist has never looked this good.

Further, this story was just exceptionally well-layered. Smyth expertly balances the funnier aspects of Aideen’s life with the struggles she faces at home. With having to play babysitter to her alcoholic mother, Aideen can’t keep up with schoolwork and often finds herself torn between being the adult and just wanting to be young and reckless. I loved how her relationship with her mother was explored and how Smyth also took time to develop the topic of who to trust with information and how hard it is to speak up about what’s going on behind closed doors.

With a sarcastic, relatable protagonist you’ll want to be best friends with and fast-paced troubles that spiral, Not My Problem is the perfect combo of entertaining and eye-opening, and it’s not to be missed!

Not My Problem is available from Amazon, Book Depository, and other good book retailers, like your local bookstore, as of May 25th 2021.

Will you be picking up Not My Problem? Tell us in the comments below!

Synopsis | Goodreads

Aideen has plenty of problems she can’t fix. Her best (and only) friend is pulling away. Her mother’s drinking problem is a constant concern. She’s even running out of outlandish diseases to fake so she can skip PE.

But when Aideen stumbles on her nemesis, overachiever Meabh Kowalski, in the midst of a full-blown meltdown, she sees a problem that—unlike her own disaster of a life—seems refreshingly easy to solve. Meabh is desperate to escape her crushing pile of extracurriculars. Aideen volunteers to help. By pushing Meabh down the stairs.

Problem? Solved. Meabh’s sprained ankle is the perfect excuse to ditch her overwhelming schedule. But when another student learns about their little scheme and brings Aideen another “client” who needs her “help,” it kicks off a semester of traded favors, ill-advised hijinks, and an unexpected chance at love. Fixing other people’s problems won’t fix her own, but it might be the push she needs to start.

The post #ReadWithPride: Not My Problem by Ciara Smyth appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

If you thought 2020 was a year of breathtaking and riveting queer releases, you ain’t seen nothing yet. With highly anticipated new stories from authors such as Casey McQuiston, Ciara Smyth, and Kelly Quindlen as well as promising debut authors like Morgan Rogers and Robbie Couch, 2021 is shaping up to be the most inclusive and LGBTQIAP+ friendly year yet (and we couldn’t be happier to see it)!

Now, our focus was mainly YA and middle-grade releases, but we’ve also thrown in a couple of queer fantasy, mystery, and romance releases too!  Want even more 2021 releases? Check out our list of Most Anticipated releases, Fantasy and Sci-Fi releases, Young Adult releases, Romance releases, and Queer SFF releases.

Read on to get a glimpse at some of the January to June 2021 #LGBTQIAP+ novels we cannot wait to get our hands on! And as always, tell us what other queer releases you’re looking forward to in the comments below!

JANUARY

Lava Red Feather Blue by Molly Ringle
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

On a magically hidden North Pacific island, when a man awakens a sleeping beauty of a prince, it’s only the beginning of the fairy tale, as breaking the spell unleashes a dangerous force among the fae too.

Be Dazzled by Ryan La Sala
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Project Runway goes to Comic Con in an epic, queer love story about creativity, creation, and finding the courage to be your most authentic self.

Wench by Maxine Kaplan
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A funny, fiercely feminist YA epic fantasy—following the adventures of a tavern wench.

When Tara Met Farah by Tara Pammi
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“Sunshine Girl needs math lessons” in this sapphic grumpy meets sunshine new adult romance.

Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo
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Acclaimed author of Ash, Malinda Lo returns with her most personal and ambitious novel yet, a gripping story of love and duty set in San Francisco’s Chinatown during the 1950s.

Not Quite Out by Louise Willingham
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William Anson is done with relationships, thanks. He’s starting the second year of his medicine degree single, focused, and ready to mingle with purely platonic intentions. Until he meets Daniel, a barely recovered drug addict that turns his world upside down.

The Heiress by Molly Greeley
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In this gorgeously written and spellbinding historical novel based on Pride and Prejudice, the author of The Clergyman’s Wife combines the knowing eye of Jane Austen with the eroticism and Gothic intrigue of Sarah Waters to reimagine the life of the mysterious Anne de Bourgh.

FEBRUARY

Honey Girl by Morgan Rogers
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A refreshingly timely and relatable debut novel about a young woman whose life plans fall apart when she meets her wife.

100 Boyfriends by Brontez Purnell
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An irreverent, sensitive, and inimitable look at gay dysfunction through the eyes of a cult hero

A Dark and Hollow Star by Ashley Shuttleworth
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The Cruel Prince meets City of Bones in this thrilling urban fantasy set in the magical underworld of Toronto that follows a queer cast of characters racing to stop a serial killer whose crimes could expose the hidden world of faeries to humans.

Love is for Losers by Wibke Brueggemann
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In this wry and hilarious queer romantic comedy, fifteen-year-old Phoebe realizes that falling in love is maybe not just for losers.

As Far as You’ll Take Me by Phil Stamper
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The author of The Gravity of Us crafts another heartfelt coming-of-age story about finding the people who become your home – perfect for fans of Becky Albertalli.

Let’s Get Back to the Party by Zak Salih
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Rich with sharply drawn characters and contemporary detail, provocative, and emotionally profound, Let’s Get Back to the Party is sure to appeal to readers of Garth Greenwell, Alan Hollinghurst, Claire Messud, and Rebecca Makkai.

The Boy from the Mish by Gary Lonesborough
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A funny and heart-warming queer Indigenous YA novel, set in a rural Australian community, about seventeen-year-old Jackson finding the courage to explore who he is, even if it scares him.

MARCH

Perfect on Paper by Sophie Gonzales
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In Sophie Gonzales’ Perfect on Paper, Leah on the Offbeat meets To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before: a bisexual girl who gives anonymous love advice to her classmates is hired by the hot guy to help him get his ex back.

Sweet & Bitter Magic by Adrienne Tooley
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In this charming debut fantasy perfect for fans of Sorcery of Thorns and Girls of Paper and Fire, a witch cursed to never love meets a girl hiding her own dangerous magic, and the two strike a dangerous bargain to save their queendom.

Bruised by Tanya Boteju
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Whip It meets We Are Okay in this vibrant coming-of-age story, about a teen girl navigates first love, identity, and grief when she immerses herself in the colorful, brutal, beautiful world of roller derby. From the acclaimed author of Kings, Queens, and In-Betweens.

The Mirror Season by Anna-Marie McLemore
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When two teens discover that they were both sexually assaulted at the same party, they develop a cautious friendship through her family’s possibly magical pastelería, his secret forest of otherworldly trees, and the swallows returning to their hometown.

She’s Too Pretty to Burn by Wendy Heard
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Inspired by The Picture of Dorian Gray comes an electric romance set against a rebel art scene that sparks lethal danger for two girls in this expertly plotted YA thriller. For fans of E. Lockhart, Lauren Oliver and Kara Thomas.

I Think I Love You by Auriane Desombre
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A YA contemporary rom com about two girls who start as rivals but after a twist of events, end up falling for one another–at least they think so.

Follow Your Arrow by Jessica Verdi
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For fans of Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera, this is a riveting and irresistible take on love, life, and identity – both online and off.

APRIL

The Sky Blues by Robbie Couch
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Sky’s small town turns absolutely claustrophobic when his secret promposal plans get leaked to the entire school in this witty, heartfelt, and ultimately hopeful debut novel for fans of What if it’s Us? and I Wish You All the Best.

Between Perfect and Real by Ray Stoeve
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A moving #ownvoices YA debut about a trans boy finding his voice—and himself.

These Feathered Flames by Alexandra Overy
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Three Dark Crowns meets Wicked Saints in this queer #ownvoices retelling of The Firebird, a Russian folktale, by debut author Alexandra Overy.

Zara Hossain Is Here by Sabina Khan
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the author of the “heart-wrenching yet hopeful” (Samira Ahmed) novel The Love and Lies of Rukhsana Ali, comes a timely, intimate look at what it means to be an immigrant in America today, and the endurance of hope and faith in the face of hate.

Malice by Heather Walter
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A princess isn’t supposed to fall for an evil sorceress. But in this darkly magical retelling of “Sleeping Beauty,” true love is more than a simple fairy tale.

She Drives Me Crazy by Kelly Quindlen
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

High school nemeses fall in love in this queer YA rom com perfect for fans of Becky Albertalli and Casey McQuisten

The Key to You and Me by Jaye Robin Brown
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A sweet and funny #ownvoices LGBTQ+ romance perfect for fans of Becky Albertalli and Julie Murphy, from the critically acclaimed author of Georgia Peaches and Other Forbidden Fruit!

MAY

Meet Cute Diary by Emery Lee
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Felix Ever After meets Becky Albertalli in this swoon-worthy, heartfelt rom-com about how a transgender teen’s first love challenges his ideas about perfect relationships.

It Goes Like This by Miel Moreland
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In Miel Moreland’s heartfelt young adult debut, four queer teens realize that sometimes you have to risk hitting repeat on heartbreak.

How to Become a Planet by Nicole Melleby
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11-year-old Pluto struggles with her depression and anxiety diagnosis, which feels like a big black hole sitting on her chest making it too hard to do anything. She makes efforts to find balance with an assist from the friendly voice on the Hayden Planetarium’s Astronomy Question and Answer Hotline.

Not My Problem by Ciara Smyth
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the author of The Falling in Love Montage, this queer coming-of-age story about a slacker who inadvertently becomes her school’s underground problem-solver is wry, multilayered, and unflinchingly honest—perfect for fans of Becky Albertalli and Nina LaCour.

Cool for the Summer by Dahlia Adler
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Cool for the Summer is a story of self-discovery and new love. It’s about the things we want and the things we need. And it’s about the people who will let us be who we are. 

Hani and Ishu’s Guide to Fake Dating by Adiba Jaigirdar
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To All the Boys I Loved Before meets LGBT romance in this funny, heart-warming rom-com about first love and identity.

May the Best Man Win by ZR Ellor
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A trans boy enters a throw-down battle for the title of Homecoming King with the boy he dumped last summer in ZR Ellor’s contemporary YA debut.

JUNE

The (Un)Popular Vote by Jasper Sanchez
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Red, White and Royal Blue meets The West Wing in Sanchez’s electric and insightful #ownvoices YA debut, chronicling a transmasculine student’s foray into a no-holds-barred student body president election against the wishes of his politician father.

Jay’s Gay Agenda by Jason June
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From debut novelist Jason June comes a moving and hilarious sex-positive teen rom-com about the complexities of first loves, first hookups, and first heartbreaks—and how to stay true to yourself while embracing what you never saw coming.

The Darkness Outside Us by Eliot Schrefer
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They Both Die at the End meets The Loneliest Girl in the Universe in this mind-bending sci-fi mystery and tender love story about two boys aboard a spaceship sent on a rescue mission.

The Witch King by H.E. Edgmon
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To save a fae kingdom, a trans witch must face his traumatic past and the royal fiancé he left behind. This debut YA fantasy will leave you spellbound.

Yes, Daddy by Jonathan Parks-Ramage
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A propulsive, scorching modern gothic, Yes, Daddy follows an ambitious young man who is lured by an older, successful playwright into a dizzying world of wealth and an idyllic Hamptons home where things take a nightmarish turn.

Trouble Girls by Julia Lynn Rubin
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A queer YA reimagining of Thelma & Louise with the aesthetic of Riverdale.

One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston
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From the New York Times bestselling author of Red, White & Royal Blue comes a new romantic comedy that puts a queer spin on Kate & Leopold.

What queer 2021 book releases are you looking forward to? Tell us in the comments below!

The post Anticipated Queer Book Releases You Can’t Miss In 2021 appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Prepare yourselves because this list of 2021 young adult book releases will see you adding several to your TBR! With new releases from favourites, such as Kristin Cashore, Neal Shusterman, Cassandra Clare, and Julie Murphy, as well as debuts from the likes of Ellie Eaton, Angeline Boulley, Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé, and many more! Plus, the YA genre is absolutely delivering with gorgeous covers!

Want more 2021 book releases? Check out our list of Most Anticipated releases, Fantasy and Sci-Fi releases, Queer releases, and Queer SFF releases.

Read on to discover our January to June 2021 releases and tell us what you’re looking forward to in the comments below!

JANUARY

Angel of Greenwood by Randi Pink
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A historical YA novel that takes place during the Greenwood Massacre of 1921, in an area of Tulsa, OK, known as the Black Wall Street.

The Divines by Ellie Eaton
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With the emotional power of Normal People and the reflective haze of The Girls, a compulsively readable literary debut set in a secluded boarding school, exploring the intoxicating, destructive relationships between teenage girls. 

Roman and Jewel by Dana L. Davis
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If Romeo and Juliet got the Hamilton treatment…who would play the leads? This vividly funny, honest, and charming romantic novel by Dana L. Davis is the story of a girl who thinks she has what it takes…and the world thinks so, too.

You Have a Match by Emma Lord
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the beloved author of Tweet Cute comes Emma Lord’s You Have a Match, a YA novel of family, friendship, romance and sisterhood…

Cast in Firelight by Dana Swift
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The first book in an epic, heart-pounding fantasy duology about two royal heirs betrothed to be married, but whose loyalties are torn, and a ruthless enemy who threatens their world, perfect for fans of Sabaa Tahir, Hafsah Faizal, and Renée Ahdieh.

Winterkeep (Graceling Realm #4) by Kristin Cashore
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The highly anticipated next book in the New York Times bestselling, award-winning Graceling Realm series, which has sold 1.3 million copies.

Crown of Bones by A.K. Wilder
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For fans of epic fantasies and sweeping adventures, this ensemble cast will immerse you in a world of unique magic, breathtaking action and unforgettable characters.

Glimpsed by G. F. Miller
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Perfect for fans of Geekerella and Jenn Bennett, this charming, sparkly rom-com follows a wish-granting teen forced to question if she’s really doing good—and if she has the power to make her own dreams come true.

FEBRUARY

What Big Teeth by Rose Szabo
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Rose Szabo’s thrilling debut is a dark and thrilling novel about a teen girl who returns home to her strange, wild family after years of estrangement, perfect for fans of Wilder Girls. 

The Girl from Shadow Springs by Ellie Cypher
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The Revenant meets True Grit with a magical twist in this thrilling and atmospheric debut fantasy about two teens who must brave a frozen wasteland and the foes within it to save their loved ones and uncover a deadly secret.

Of Silver and Shadow by Jennifer Gruenke
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Ren Kolins is a silver wielder—a dangerous thing to be in the kingdom of Erdis, where magic has been outlawed for a century. But when a wealthy rebel leader discovers her secret, he offers her a fortune to join his revolution. The caveat: she won’t see a single coin until they overthrow the King.

A Pho Love Story by Loan Le
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When Dimple Met Rishi meets Ugly Delicious in this funny, smart romantic comedy, in which two Vietnamese-American teens fall in love and must navigate their newfound relationship amid their families’ age-old feud about their competing, neighbouring restaurants.

As Far as You’ll Take Me by Phil Stamper
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The author of The Gravity of Us crafts another heartfelt coming-of-age story about finding the people who become your home–perfect for fans of Becky Albertalli.

Game Changer by Neal Shusterman
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This high-concept novel from the National Book Award-winning and New York Times-bestselling author of the Arc of a Scythe series tackles the most urgent themes of our time, making this a must-buy for readers who are starting to ask big questions about their own role in the universe.

Love Is a Revolution by Renée Watson
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From New York Times bestselling and award-winning author Rene Watson comes a new YA–a love story about not only a romantic relationship but how a girl finds herself and falls in love with who she really is. 

Love Is for Losers by Wibke Brueggemann
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

This is a laugh-out-loud exploration of sexuality, family, female friendship, grief, and community. With the heart and hilarity of Netflix’s critically-acclaimed Sex Education, Wibke Brueggemann’s sex positive debut is required reading for Generation Z teens. Think of this as Bridget Jones’ Diary, if it were written by Bridget’s daughter.

MARCH

Lost in the Never Woods by Aiden Thomas
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When children go missing, people want answers. When children go missing in the small coastal town of Astoria, people look to Wendy for answers. 

Firekeeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley
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Debut author Angeline Boulley crafts a groundbreaking YA thriller about a Native teen who must root out the corruption in her community, for readers of Angie Thomas and Tommy Orange. 

The Stolen Kingdom by Jillian Boehme
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Nothing is quite as it seems in this thrilling YA fantasy adventure by Jillian Boehme, The Stolen Kingdom!

Sing Me Forgotten by Jessica S. Olson
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Cast into a well at birth for being one of the magical few who can manipulate memories when people sing, she was saved by Cyril, the opera house’s owner. Since that day, he has given her sanctuary from the murderous world outside. All he asks in return is that she use her power to keep ticket sales high—and that she stay out of sight. For if anyone discovers she survived, Isda and Cyril would pay with their lives.

Rule of Wolves by Leigh Bardugo
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The wolves are circling and a young king will face his greatest challenge in the explosive finale of the instant #1 New York Times-bestselling King of Scars Duology.

The Bright and the Pale by Jessica Rubinkowski
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Debut author Jessica Rubinkowski delivers the thrilling first book in an epic Russian folklore–inspired fantasy duology filled with page-turning romance, tragedy, magic, and monsters. Perfect for fans of Leigh Bardugo and Sara Raasch!

Chain of Iron by Cassandra Clare
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The Shadowhunters must catch a killer in Edwardian London in this dangerous and romantic sequel to the #1 New York Times bestselling novel Chain of Gold, from New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Cassandra Clare. 

American Betiya by Anuradha D. Rajurkar
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Fans of Sandhya Menon, Erika Sanchez and Jandy Nelson will identify with this powerful story of a young artist grappling with first love, family boundaries, and the complications of a cross-cultural relationship.

APRIL

The Prison Healer by Lynette Noni
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From bestselling author Lynette Noni comes a dark, thrilling YA fantasy perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas, and Sabaa Tahir.

The Mary Shelley Club by Goldy Moldavsky
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New York Times–bestselling author Goldy Moldavsky delivers a deliciously twisty YA thriller that’s Scream meets Karen McManus about a mysterious club with an obsession for horror.

In Deeper Waters by F.T. Lukens
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A young prince must rely on a mysterious stranger to save him when he is kidnapped during his coming-of-age tour in this swoony adventure that is The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue meets Pirates of the Caribbean.

Kisses and Croissants by Anne-Sophie Jouhanneau
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As sweet as a macaron from Laduree, with writing as crisp as a freshly baked baguette, this romantic novel set in Paris about an American ballerina and a charming French boy is parfait for fans of American Royals and Netflix’s To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before.

Somewhere Between Bitter and Sweet by Laekan Zea Kemp
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I’m Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter meets Emergency Contact in this stunning story of first love, familial expectations, the power of food, and finding where you belong.

What Beauty There Is by Cory Anderson
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An exhilarating, emotionally powerful and superbly written thriller that’s Winter’s Bone meets The Road.

My Epic Spring Break-Up by Kristin Rockaway
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A fun and upbeat paperback original romance about a girl who finds a cheat sheet for love.

Lycanthropy and Other Chronic Illnesses by Kristen O’Neal
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Teen Wolf meets Emergency Contact in this sharply observed, hilarious, and heartwarming debut young adult novel about friendship and the hairy side of chronic illness. 

MAY

The Ones We’re Meant to Find by Joan He
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One of the most twisty, surprising, engaging page-turner YAs you’ll read this year—We Were Liars with sci-fi scope, Lost with a satisfying resolution.

Baby & Solo by Lisabeth Posthuma
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Joel’s new job at the video store is just what the therapist ordered. But what happens if the first true friend he’s made in years finds out about What Was Wrong With Him?

Sixteen Scandals by Sophie Jordan
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In this irreverent regency romp by New York Times best-selling author Sophie Jordan, newly minted sixteen-year-old Primrose Ainsworth finds herself on a wayward birthday adventure through London with a mysterious hero—perfect for fans of My Lady Jane.

Pumpkin by Julie Murphy
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Return to the beloved world of Julie Murphy’s #1 New York Times bestselling Dumplin’—now a popular Netflix feature film starring Jennifer Aniston—in this fabulously joyful, final companion novel about drag, prom, and embracing your inner Queen.

Off the Record by Camryn Garrett
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The behind-the-scenes access of Almost Famous meets the searing revelations of #metoo in this story of a teen journalist who uncovers the scandal of the decade.

Tokyo Ever After by Emiko Jean
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Crazy Rich Asians meets The Princess Diaries in this irresistible story about Izumi, a Japanese-American girl who discovers her senior year of high school that she’s really a princess of Japan.

Counting Down with You by Tashie Bhuiyan
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In this sparkling and romantic YA debut, a reserved Bangladeshi teenager has twenty-eight days to make the biggest decision of her life after agreeing to fake date her school’s resident bad boy.

Not My Problem by Ciara Smyth
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Perfect for fans of Becky Albertalli and Nina LaCour, this queer coming-of-age story from the author of The Falling in Love Montage is wry, multilayered, and unflinchingly honest.

JUNE

Eat Your Heart Out by Kelly deVos
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Shaun of the Dead meets Dumplin’ in this bitingly funny YA thriller about a kickass group of teens battling a ravenous group of zombies.

Daughter of Sparta by Claire M. Andrews
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A reinterpretation of the classic Greek myth of Daphne and Apollo, Daughter of Sparta by debut author Claire Andrews turns the traditionally male-dominated mythology we know into a heart-pounding and empowering female-led adventure.

The Ghosts We Keep by Mason Deaver
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Perfect for fans of Adam Silvera and Becky Albertalli, this book will rip your heart out before showing you how to heal from tragedy and celebrate life in the process.

Sisters of the Snake by Sasha Nanua and Sarena Nanua
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Deadly magic, hidden temples, and dark prophecies: Sisters of the Snake is an action-packed, immersive fantasy that will thrill fans of The Crown’s Game and The Tiger at Midnight. 

Simone Breaks All the Rules by Debbie Rigaud
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Late bloomers unite! This fresh and funny #ownvoices novel from rising star Debbie Rigaud is perfect for fans of To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before and Booksmart.

A Season of Sinister Dreams by Tracy Banghart
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Furyborn meets A Curse So Dark and Lonely in this courtly feminist fantasy from Grace and Fury author Tracy Banghart.

Ace of Spades by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé
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Gossip Girl meets Get Out in Ace of Spades, a YA contemporary thriller by debut author Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé about two students, Devon & Chiamaka, and their struggles against an anonymous bully. 

We Can’t Keep Meeting Like This by Rachel Lynn Solomon
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A wedding harpist disillusioned with love and a hopeless romantic cater-waiter flirt and fight their way through a summer of weddings in this effervescent romantic comedy from the acclaimed author of Today Tonight Tomorrow.

What YA books are you looking forward to releasing between January and June 2021? Tell us in the comments below!

The post 2021 YA Book Releases You Need To Have On Your TBR appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Dark and Deepest Red by Anna-Marie McLemore
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Summer, 1518. A strange sickness sweeps through Strasbourg: women dance in the streets, some until they fall down dead. As rumors of witchcraft spread, suspicion turns toward Lavinia and her family, and Lavinia may have to do the unimaginable to save herself and everyone she loves.

Five centuries later, a pair of red shoes seal to Rosella Oliva’s feet, making her dance uncontrollably. They draw her toward a boy who knows the dancing fever’s history better than anyone: Emil, whose family was blamed for the fever five hundred years ago. But there’s more to what happened in 1518 than even Emil knows, and discovering the truth may decide whether Rosella survives the red shoes.

Wranglestone by Darren Charlton
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In a post-apocalyptic America, a community survives in a national park, surrounded by water that keeps the Dead at bay. But when winter comes, there’s nothing to stop them from crossing the ice.

Then homebody Peter puts the camp in danger by naively allowing a stranger to come ashore and he’s forced to leave the community of Wranglestone. Now he must help rancher Cooper, the boy he’s always watched from afar, herd the Dead from their shores before the lake freezes over.

But as love blossoms, a dark discovery reveals the sanctuary’s secret past. One that forces the pair to question everything they’ve ever known.

The Midnight Lie by Marie Rutkoski
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Where Nirrim lives, crime abounds, a harsh tribunal rules, and society’s pleasures are reserved for the High Kith. Life in the Ward is grim and punishing. People of her low status are forbidden from sampling sweets or wearing colors. You either follow the rules, or pay a tithe and suffer the consequences.

Nirrim keeps her head down and a dangerous secret close to her chest.

But then she encounters Sid, a rakish traveler from far away who whispers rumors that the High Caste possesses magic. Sid tempts Nirrim to seek that magic for herself. But to do that, Nirrim must surrender her old life. She must place her trust in this sly stranger who asks, above all, not to be trusted.

Wicked as You Wish by Rin Chupeco
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Many years ago, the magical Kingdom of Avalon was left encased in ice when the Snow Queen waged war. Its former citizens are now refugees in a world mostly devoid of magic. Which is why the crown prince and his protectors are stuck in…Arizona.

Prince Alexei, the sole survivor of the Avalon royal family, is hiding in a town so boring, magic doesn’t even work there. Few know his secret identity, but his friend Tala is one of them.

A new hope for their abandoned homeland reignites when a famous creature of legend, the Firebird, appears for the first time in decades. Alex and Tala must unite with a ragtag group of new friends to journey back to Avalon for a showdown that will change the world as they know it.

All Boys Aren’t Blue by George M Johnson
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In a series of personal essays, prominent journalist and LGBTQIA+ activist George M. Johnson explores his childhood, adolescence, and college years in New Jersey and Virginia. From the memories of getting his teeth kicked out by bullies at age five, to flea marketing with his loving grandmother, to his first sexual relationships, this young-adult memoir weaves together the trials and triumphs faced by Black queer boys.

Both a primer for teens eager to be allies as well as a reassuring testimony for young queer men of color, All Boys Aren’t Bluecovers topics such as gender identity, toxic masculinity, brotherhood, family, structural marginalization, consent, and Black joy. Johnson’s emotionally frank style of writing will appeal directly to young adults.

Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo
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Camino Rios lives for the summers when her father visits her in the Dominican Republic. But this time, on the day when his plane is supposed to land, Camino arrives at the airport to see crowds of crying people…

In New York City, Yahaira Rios is called to the principal’s office, where her mother is waiting to tell her that her father, her hero, has died in a plane crash.

Separated by distance – and Papi’s secrets – the two girls are forced to face a new reality in which their father is dead and their lives are forever altered. And then, when it seems like they’ve lost everything of their father, they learn of each other.

Papi’s death uncovers all the painful truths he kept hidden, and the love he divided across an ocean. And now, Camino and Yahaira are both left to grapple with what this new sister means to them, and what it will now take to keep their dreams alive.

Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender
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Felix Love has never been in love—and, yes, he’s painfully aware of the irony. He desperately wants to know what it’s like and why it seems so easy for everyone but him to find someone. What’s worse is that, even though he is proud of his identity, Felix also secretly fears that he’s one marginalization too many—Black, queer, and transgender—to ever get his own happily-ever-after.

When an anonymous student begins sending him transphobic messages—after publicly posting Felix’s deadname alongside images of him before he transitioned—Felix comes up with a plan for revenge. What he didn’t count on: his catfish scenario landing him in a quasi–love triangle….

But as he navigates his complicated feelings, Felix begins a journey of questioning and self-discovery that helps redefine his most important relationship: how he feels about himself.

The Henna Wars by Adiba Jaigirdar
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When Nishat comes out to her parents, they say she can be anyone she wants—as long as she isn’t herself. Because Muslim girls aren’t lesbians. Nishat doesn’t want to hide who she is, but she also doesn’t want to lose her relationship with her family. And her life only gets harder once a childhood friend walks back into her life.

Flávia is beautiful and charismatic and Nishat falls for her instantly. But when a school competition invites students to create their own businesses, both Flávia and Nishat choose to do henna, even though Flávia is appropriating Nishat’s culture. Amidst sabotage and school stress, their lives get more tangled—but Nishat can’t quite get rid of her crush on Flávia, and realizes there might be more to her than she realized.

Hideous Beauty by William Hussey
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When Dylan and Ellis’s secret relationship is exposed on social media, Dylan is forced to come out. To Dylan’s surprise they are met with support and congratulations, and an amazing reception at their highschool dance. Perhaps people aren’t as narrow-minded as he thought?

But Dylan’s happiness is short-lived. Ellis suddenly becomes angry, withdrawn, and as they drive home from the dance, he loses control of the car, sending it plunging into Hunter’s Lake. Barely conscious, Dylan is pulled free of the wreck, while Ellis is left to drown.

Grief-stricken, Dylan vows to discover what happened to Ellis that night and piece together the last months of his boyfriend’s life – and realises just how little he knew about the boy he loved.

Wonderland by Juno Dawson
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Alice lives in a world of stifling privilege and luxury – but none of it means anything when your own head plays tricks on your reality. When her troubled friend Bunny goes missing, Alice becomes obsessed with finding her. On the trail of her last movements, Alice discovers a mysterious invitation to ‘Wonderland’: the party to end all parties – three days of hedonistic excess to which only the elite are welcome.

Will she find Bunny there? Or is this really a case of finding herself? Because Alice has secrets of her own, and ruthless socialite queen Paisley Hart is determined to uncover them, whatever it takes.

Alice is all alone, miles from home and without her essential medication. She can trust no-one, least of all herself, and now she has a new enemy who wants her head…

You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson
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Liz Lighty has always believed she’s too black, too poor, too awkward to shine in her small, rich, prom-obsessed midwestern town. But it’s okay — Liz has a plan that will get her out of Campbell, Indiana, forever: attend the uber-elite Pennington College, play in their world-famous orchestra, and become a doctor.

But when the financial aid she was counting on unexpectedly falls through, Liz’s plans come crashing down . . . until she’s reminded of her school’s scholarship for prom king and queen. There’s nothing Liz wants to do less than endure a gauntlet of social media trolls, catty competitors, and humiliating public events, but despite her devastating fear of the spotlight she’s willing to do whatever it takes to get to Pennington.

The only thing that makes it halfway bearable is the new girl in school, Mack. She’s smart, funny, and just as much of an outsider as Liz. But Mack is also in the running for queen. Will falling for the competition keep Liz from her dreams . . . or make them come true?

The Falling in Love Montage by Ciara Smyth
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Saoirse doesn’t believe in love at first sight or happy endings. If they were real, her mother would still be able to remember her name and not in a care home with early onset dementia. A condition that Saoirse may one day turn out to have inherited. So she’s not looking for a relationship. She doesn’t see the point in igniting any romantic sparks if she’s bound to burn out.

But after a chance encounter at an end-of-term house party, Saoirse is about to break her own rules. For a girl with one blue freckle, an irresistible sense of mischief, and a passion for rom-coms.

Unbothered by Saoirse’s no-relationships rulebook, Ruby proposes a loophole: They don’t need true love to have one summer of fun, complete with every cliché, rom-com montage-worthy date they can dream up—and a binding agreement to end their romance come fall. It would be the perfect plan, if they weren’t forgetting one thing about the Falling in Love Montage: when it’s over, the characters actually fall in love… for real.

I’ll Be The One by Lyla Lee
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Skye Shin has heard it all. Fat girls shouldn’t dance. Wear bright colors. Shouldn’t call attention to themselves. But Skye dreams of joining the glittering world of K-Pop, and to do that, she’s about to break all the rules that society, the media, and even her own mother, have set for girls like her.

She’ll challenge thousands of other performers in an internationally televised competition looking for the next K-pop star, and she’ll do it better than anyone else.

When Skye nails her audition, she’s immediately swept into a whirlwind of countless practices, shocking performances, and the drama that comes with reality TV. What she doesn’t count on are the highly fat-phobic beauty standards of the Korean pop entertainment industry, her sudden media fame and scrutiny, or the sparks that soon fly with her fellow competitor, Henry Cho.

Cinderella Is Dead by Kalynn Bayron
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It’s 200 years after Cinderella found her prince, but the fairy tale is over. Teen girls are now required to appear at the Annual Ball, where the men of the kingdom select wives based on a girl’s display of finery. If a suitable match is not found, the girls not chosen are never heard from again.

Sixteen-year-old Sophia would much rather marry Erin, her childhood best friend, than parade in front of suitors. At the ball, Sophia makes the desperate decision to flee, and finds herself hiding in Cinderella’s mausoleum. There, she meets Constance, the last known descendant of Cinderella and her step sisters. Together they vow to bring down the king once and for all–and in the process, they learn that there’s more to Cinderella’s story than they ever knew…

Girl, Serpent, Thorn by Melissa Bashardoust
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There was and there was not, as all stories begin, a princess cursed to be poisonous to the touch. But for Soraya, who has lived her life hidden away, apart from her family, safe only in her gardens, it’s not just a story.

As the day of her twin brother’s wedding approaches, Soraya must decide if she’s willing to step outside of the shadows for the first time. Below in the dungeon is a demon who holds knowledge that she craves, the answer to her freedom. And above is a young man who isn’t afraid of her, whose eyes linger not with fear, but with an understanding of who she is beneath the poison.

Soraya thought she knew her place in the world, but when her choices lead to consequences she never imagined, she begins to question who she is and who she is becoming…human or demon. Princess or monster.

Loveless by Alice Oseman
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Georgia has never been in love, never kissed anyone, never even had a crush – but as a fanfic-obsessed romantic she’s sure she’ll find her person one day.

As she starts university with her best friends, Pip and Jason, in a whole new town far from home, Georgia’s ready to find romance, and with her outgoing roommate on her side and a place in the Shakespeare Society, her ‘teenage dream’ is in sight.

But when her romance plan wreaks havoc amongst her friends, Georgia ends up in her own comedy of errors, and she starts to question why love seems so easy for other people but not for her. With new terms thrown at her – asexual, aromantic – Georgia is more uncertain about her feelings than ever.

Is she destined to remain loveless? Or has she been looking for the wrong thing all along?

Boy Queen by George Lester
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Robin Cooper’s life is falling apart.

While his friends prepare to head off to university, Robin is looking at a pile of rejection letters from drama schools up and down the country, and facing a future without the people he loves the most. Everything seems like it’s ending, and Robin is scrabbling to find his feet.

Unsure about what to do next and whether he has the talent to follow his dreams, he and his best friends go and drown their sorrows at a local drag show, where Robin realises there might be a different, more sequinned path for him . . .

With a mother who won’t stop talking, a boyfriend who won’t acknowledge him and a best friend who is dying to cover him in glitter make up, there’s only one thing for Robin to do: bring it to the runway.

Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas
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Yadriel has summoned a ghost, and now he can’t get rid of him.

When his traditional Latinx family has problems accepting his 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 up 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.

The Summer of Everything by Julian Winters
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Comic book geek Wesley Hudson excels at two things: slacking off at his job and pining after his best friend, Nico. Advice from his friends, ‘90s alt-rock songs, and online dating articles aren’t helping much with his secret crush. And his dream job at Once Upon a Page, the local used bookstore, is threatened when a coffeeshop franchise wants to buy the property. To top it off, his annoying brother needs wedding planning advice. When all three problems converge, Wes comes face-to-face with the one thing he’s been avoiding—adulthood.

Now, confronted with reality, can Wes balance saving the bookstore and his strained sibling relationship? Can he win the heart of his crush, too?

Surrender Your Sons by Adam Sass
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Connor Major’s summer break is turning into a nightmare.

His SAT scores bombed, the old man he delivers meals to died, and when he came out to his religious zealot mother, she had him kidnapped and shipped off to a secluded island. His final destination: Nightlight Ministries, a conversion therapy camp that will be his new home until he “changes.”

But Connor’s troubles are only beginning. At Nightlight, everyone has something to hide from the campers to the “converted” staff and cagey camp director, and it quickly becomes clear that no one is safe. Connor plans to escape and bring the other kidnapped teens with him. But first, he’s exposing the camp’s horrible truths for what they are— and taking this place down.

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

The post 20 Fantastic YA LGBTQ+ Books appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

The Falling in Love Montage by Ciara Smyth
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Saoirse doesn’t believe in love at first sight or happy endings. But after a chance encounter at an end-of-term house party, Saoirse is about to break her own rules. For a girl with one blue freckle, an irresistible sense of mischief, and a passion for rom-coms.

Influence by Sara Shepard and Lilia Buckingham
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Get ready to delve into the world of teen influencers like you’ve never done before–from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of PRETTY LITTLE LIARS Sara Shepard and sixteen-year-old actress and social media personality Lilia Buckingham comes a twisty mystery that takes place in the fiercely competitive world of Internet stars. (Note: Influence has now been pushed back to January 2021)

Rebel Spy by Veronica Rossi
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A reimagining of the story behind Agent 355–a New York society girl and spy for George Washington during the Revolutionary War–perfect for fans of Tatiana de Rosnay’s Sarah’s Key and the novels of Julie Berry.

I’ll Be the One by Lyla Lee
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The world of K-Pop has never met a star like this. Debut author Lyla Lee delivers a deliciously fun, thoughtful rom-com celebrating confidence and body positivity—perfect for fans of Jenny Han and Julie Murphy.

You Should See Me In A Crown by Leah Johnson
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Liz’s plans to attend the uber-elite Pennington College come crashing down until she’s reminded of her school’s scholarship for prom king and queen. There’s nothing Liz wants to do less than endure a gauntlet of social media trolls, catty competitors, and humiliating public events, and the only thing that makes it halfway bearable is the new girl in school, Mack. But Mack is also in the running for queen. Will falling for the competition keep Liz from her dreams . . . or make them come true?

Category Five by Ann Dávila Cardinal
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Category Five is a new supernatural YA thriller from Ann Dávila Cardinal, set against the backdrop of a post-hurricane Puerto Rico.

I Think I Love You by Auriane Desombre
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A YA contemporary rom com about arch-nemeses Emma, a die-hard romantic, and more-practical minded Sophia who find themselves competing against one another for a coveted first-prize trip to a film festival in Los Angeles . . . what happens if their rivalry turns into a romance?

Hood by Jenny Elder Moke
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In Hood, author Jenny Elder Moke reimagines the world of Robin Hood in lush, historical detail and imbues her story with more breathless action than has ever come out of Sherwood Forest before. This novel is a must-read for historical-fiction fans, adventure lovers, and reluctant readers alike!

The Damned by Renée Ahdieh
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New York Times bestselling author Renée Ahdieh returns with the second instalment of her new sumptuous, sultry and romantic series, The Beautiful.

I Killed Zoe Spanos by Kit Frick
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This gripping thriller follows two teens whose lives become inextricably linked when one confesses to murder and the other becomes determined to uncover the real truth no matter the cost.

The State of Us by Shaun David Hutchinson
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It’s a new modern-day, star-crossed romance about what it really means to love your country—and yourself—from the acclaimed author of We Are the Ants and Brave Face, Shaun David Hutchinson.

You Say It First by Katie Cotugno
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You Say It First is a propulsive, layered novel about how sometimes the person who has the least in common with us can be the one who changes us most.

Will you be picking up any of these releases? Tell us in the comments below!

The post June 2020 Book Releases: YA appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Tell us about your new books, YOU DON’T LIVE HERE and THE FALLING IN LOVE MONTAGE.

Ciara Smyth: The Falling in Love Montage is a story about Saoirse who, in my opinion, has very good reasons for not wanting to get into a relationship. But then she meets Ruby and Ruby is cute so what’s a girl gonna do? Ruby loves rom-coms so she suggests that they have a relationship where there’s no serious stuff, just the kind of fun things you see in the falling in love montage of a movie. Saoirse agrees because, like I said, cute. But she promises herself it won’t get serious. Good luck with that girls!

Robyn Schneider: Sure! You Don’t Live Here is my queer love letter to Gilmore Girls and The OC. It’s about sixteen-year-old Sasha, who loses her mom in a terrible (fictional!) earthquake, and is forced to move in with her estranged grandparents in their wealthy, conservative town. It’s like she’s stuck in a repeat of her mom’s life, down to her grandparents’ expectations that she date the right boy and make the right friends. But her grandparents’ ideas don’t exactly match up with hers, especially after she meets the girl next door. It’s both a coming of age story and a coming out story, since Sasha’s grandparents don’t realize she’s bisexual. But mostly, it’s a story of a family dealing with loss, and learning how to live together after their world is upended by tragedy.

Ciara Smyth: I adore Gilmore Girls so that plus bisexual coming of age, I’m in heaven. Can’t wait to read it!

Both of your books feature girls falling in love. Tell us why you decided to write these love stories into your books.

Ciara: Falling in love is the most exciting time. It’s so intense and fun and it takes over your life for a little while. You can’t decide when to fall in love, it doesn’t come when it’s convenient. It doesn’t always happen with the perfect person, it just happens. I think we want to control so much of our lives and we cannot control this, even if we try. And on purely a writing level it was just fun for me to write all these date scenes. They are all my ideal date scenarios if I’m honest.

Robyn: Ok, you need to keep talking about love forever because I love the way you describe it. Also, date scenes are my favorite kind to write, too. Falling in love is a transformation, and it’s something that you can’t come back from, not fully. Love changes how you see the world, and yourself. And I love stories like that—stories about people discovering who they are, and choosing who they want to be, not just obsessing over who they want to be with.

Ciara: I couldn’t agree more, I think how we love is so intricately tied to who we are as people and how we see the world and ourselves and I like love stories to reflect that.

Both books deal with young women learning about and presenting themselves authentically. Why did you feel this was important to write about for today’s YA readers?

Robyn: Being a teenager is a journey of self-identity. You try on a poem to see if it makes you feel something, you buy a pair of shoes because you want to be someone who wears shoes like that. You experiment and you learn and you gather these pieces of the world and make them pieces of who you are. But growing up queer, there’s this additional element of figuring things out. And it’s not always as easy to share as being a fan of musicals, or having a grunge aesthetic. So I wanted to write about a girl who learns to share her authentic self—all of it—after she learns that if you don’t tell people who you are, they fill in the blanks themselves.

Ciara: I probably still buy shoes hoping to be the kind of person who wears them! Being authentic and listening to yourself are really difficult things to do and it’s a lifelong journey that usually starts in adolescence. I feel strongly that culturally we try and avoid negative ‘bad’ feelings and that the things we do to avoid those feelings are hurting us far more than we realize. Saoirse doesn’t want to feel heartbroken again, she doesn’t want to lose anyone else and that’s a very understandable reaction to loss but she’s going to miss out on so much if she sticks to that plan. You have to feel your feelings, sooner or later! I work as a mental health professional in my day job and so it’s natural for me to unpack things like this in my writing, but I surround it with kissing and banter and angst.

Robyn: Loss is so hard to overcome, especially when you don’t realize the full scope of its emotional impact. Unpacking your feelings is a theme I write about as well, and it’s so important to have stories that are positive examples of this. 

In each of your books there is a strong emphasis on family, both positive and negative. What went into developing these relationships?

Ciara: With Saoirse and her mum the relationship is very different from what it once was and because of her mum’s illness. I did a lot of research about dementia and the impact on families. With Saoirse’s Dad I think the struggle was to show him through Saoirse’s eyes, as someone whose actions were terribly hurtful, but also to let the reader see that he’s not totally awful, he’s just a flawed person who is sometimes selfish and thoughtless and funny and caring. One of my favourite sayings is, “of course our families know how to push our buttons, they put them there.” That’s true of Saoirse and her dad but there’s a lot of love there too and that’s important. We can hurt people we love, the important thing is working out how to talk about it so we don’t keep doing it over and over again.

Robyn: Exactly! It’s the repeated mistakes that hurt the most. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve gotten to see my parents more as people—and I’ve gotten to see my friends become parents, and it’s made me realize that we’re all just people trying to do our best, and it took me far too long to realize that. So I wanted to write about messy, complicated, but ultimately loving and supportive family relationships in a way that conveyed hope and truth.

Ciara: Oh my God yes! I think about how high my expectations were for my parents when I was younger and now I think about how my parents were not much older than I was when I was a teen and I feel sorry for them!

From the start of THE FALLING IN LOVE MONTAGE, Saoirse is comfortable and outspoken about her lesbian identity, whereas Sasha is still learning her bisexuality in YOU DON’T LIVE HERE. How did you go about creating these characters and how they understand their identities?

Robyn: Sasha is a people-pleaser, which is something I also struggle with. It can be so hard to crave acceptance and affection, especially when you identify as queer, because it feels like the two sides of your personality are at odds. I wanted Sasha to be a character whose insecurities were relatable, and whose sense of self never wavered, only her thoughts on what to do about it. Bisexuality is a complex thing; you can’t define your sexual identity by the relationship you’re in, or the gender of your current crush. It’s all part of a larger thing. And I wanted to explore that through Sasha’s coming to terms with the first girl she ever likes enough to do something about it.

Ciara: I think so many people struggle with that sense of being torn between what will make others happy and what they really want for themselves. The fear of rejection is very real.

RS: It’s hard to be different, but it’s even harder to feel like you’re the wrong kind of different, or the kind of different whose story is rarely told.

Ciara: Saoirse doesn’t think very much about her identity as a lesbian, she’s comfortable with it and doesn’t face any hardship on account of it and for me that’s maybe a bit of a fantasy of what I would have liked to have as a teenager.  I think that although of course, homophobia is still a big problem and books that deal with that are vital. Books that deal with confusion are vital. But I think it’s important to show characters who are comfortable in their skin, who doesn’t struggle because of their sexuality so that we know that there can be another way.

Robyn: There are so many different stories about queerness right now, and I love that so much, because I agree that all of them are vital. As a reader, recognizing your struggle in fiction is so important, but also reading about others who are comfortable in their identities can be so uplifting.

Grief plays a role in both of your books. How does this affect your character’s relationships with their romantic interests?

Robyn: Grief is a hard thing to carry with you when you’re falling in love, because it makes you feel guilty for your happiness, and it clouds your judgment, because it’s just so big sometimes, and so heavy. I wanted Sasha to have to ultimately work through her grief in order to be worthy of the girl she’s interested in, but for the shared grief of having lost a parent to be something that made them grow close in the first place.

Ciara: Ahhh, all of those waring emotions. So difficult to manage and sort out, especially perhaps if the person you normally think things through with, is the person you’re missing. Saoirse’s losses are the driving force behind all of her choices in the book. She chooses a no strings attached relationship because she’s lost so much recently and she thinks if she keeps things casual she can have the fun of a falling in love montage without falling in love. But we are attachment seeking creatures and I also think some part of her is reaching out to connect with someone even though on the surface she says she doesn’t want that.

Robyn: We all really do want to connect, especially when we’re hurting the most. But it’s so hard to let people into your hurt sometimes, especially when you care about them.

During the COVID lockdown, what has been one TV show or movie that’s brought you comfort during this time?

Robyn: Definitely The Great. All those snarky “huzzah!”s and “indeed”s. It’s this farcical and lush mis-telling of the rise of Catherine the Great, and I don’t know which is better, the dialogue or the costumes. (Spoiler, they’re both excellent)

Ciara: I haven’t even heard of this before now! I’m going to check it out. I’ve been re-watching Community. It’s so funny and smart and most importantly, short. I have a very short attention span right now. #sixseasonsandamovie

Robyn: I LOVE Community! Also, only tangentially related, but that pizza box room-on-fire GIF is such a classic.

What the perfect snack to pair with your book?

Robyn: A sea salt iced coffee and a pineapple bun!

Ciara: Well, I think given the sheer number of films referenced in the book it would be remiss of me not to say popcorn.

Will you be picking up Robyn and Ciara’s books? Tell us in the comments below!

The post Authors In Conversation: Robyn Schneider & Ciara Smyth appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Welcome to the most beautiful month of the year, Pride Month! Usually, this month is packed with parades, events and festivals, but due to all of us #stay(ing)athome, Pride will have to find a way to take place online even more than the years before. But we are not The Nerd Daily for nothing, after all; we specialise in making the online world as welcoming, engaging, and inclusive as possible!

Let’s make this month as colourful as we can! To help you kick off, we present you: The LGBTQ+ Literary Alphabet. We will take each letter (and as many of the letters from the ‘+’ category as we can) and will recommend you some fantastically diverse books that are simply perfect for a good pride month read. 

And we’ll start right here! Our letter today is: L as in Lesbian. We’ve divided our bookish recommendations into genres, so that every single one of you bookworms can find a book that fits your tastes and reading habits! From adult and YA, all the way to middle-grade fiction, we’ve got you covered!

Happy reading!

Adult Fiction

Carol by Patricia Highsmith | Goodreads

Patricia Highsmith’s story of romantic obsession may be one of the most important, but still largely unrecognized, novels of the twentieth century. First published in 1952 and touted as “the novel of a love that society forbids,” the book soon became a cult classic.

Fingersmith by Sarah Waters | Goodreads

With dreams of paying back the kindness of her adopted family, Sue agrees to a plan. Once in, however, Sue begins to pity her helpless mark and care for Maud Lilly in unexpected ways, but no one and nothing is as it seems in this Dickensian novel of thrills and reversals.

The Wicked Cometh by Laura Carlin | Goodreads

Even in the darkest of times, you cannot bury the truth . . . A debut historical novel that will appeal to fans of Sarah Waters and The Silent Companions.

Disobedience by Naomi Alderman | Goodreads

Steeped in Jewish philosophy and teachings, Disobedience is a perceptive and thoughtful exploration of the laws and practices that have governed Judaism for centuries, and continue to hold sway today. Throughout the novel, Alderman retells stories from the Torah — Judaism’s fundamental source — and the interplay between these tales and the struggles of the novel’s unique characters wields enormous power and wisdom, and will surely move readers to tears.

Young Adult Fiction

The Miseducation of Cameron Post by Emily M. Danforth | Goodreads

The Miseducation of Cameron Post is a stunning and unforgettable literary debut about discovering who you are and finding the courage to live life according to your own rules.

Juliet Takes A Breath by Gabby Rivera | Goodreads

A gutsy, queer YA coming-of-age story perfect for fans of The Poet X, Roxanne Gay and Feminists Don’t Wear Pink.

Tell Me Again How a Crush Should Feel by Sara Farizan | Goodreads

Leila has made it most of the way through Armstead Academy without having a crush on anyone, which is a relief. As an Iranian-American, she’s different enough; if word got out that Leila liked girls, life would be twice as hard. But when beautiful new girl Saskia shows up, Leila starts to take risks she never thought she would. As she carefully confides in trusted friends about Saskia’s confusing signals, Leila begins to figure out that all her classmates are more complicated than they first appear to be, and some are keeping surprising secrets of their own.

The Falling in Love Montage by Ciara Smyth | Goodreads

Two girls embark on a summer of montage-worthy dates (with a few strings attached) in this hilarious and heartfelt lesbian rom-com that’s perfect for fans of Becky Albertalli and Jenny Han.

Fantasy & Sci-Fi

The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon | Goodreads

From the internationally bestselling author of The Bone Season, a trailblazing, epic high fantasy about a world on the brink of war with dragons – and the women who must lead the fight to save it.

This Is How You Lose the Time War by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone | Goodreads

Co-written by two award-winning writers, THIS IS HOW YOU LOSE THE TIME WAR is an epic love story spanning time and space.

The Deathless Girls by Kiran Millwood Hargrave | Goodreads

Gothic, intoxicating, feminist and romantic – this is the breathtakingly imagined untold story of the brides of Dracula, by bestselling author Kiran Millwood Hargrave in her much-anticipated YA debut.

Cinderella Is Dead by Kalynn Bayron | Goodreads

This fresh take on a classic story will make readers question the tales they’ve been told, and root for girls to break down the constructs of the world around them.

Classics & Poetry 

The Color Purple by Alice Walker | Goodreads

A powerful cultural touchstone of modern American literature, The Color Purple depicts the lives of African American women in early twentieth-century rural Georgia. Deeply compassionate and beautifully imagined, Alice Walker’s epic carries readers on a spirit-affirming journey towards redemption and love.

Carmilla by J. Sheridan Le Fanu | Goodreads

A classic Victorian vampire novella, which influenced Bram Stoker’s later treatment of the vampire mythos in Dracula. Secret fans of the fantastic YouTube adaptation of this novella may find themselves drawn in even further by the original novella that started it all.

Rubyfruit Jungle by Rita Mae Brown | Goodreads

Bawdy and moving, the ultimate word-of-mouth bestseller, Rubyfruit Jungle is about growing up a lesbian in America–and living happily ever after.

Middle-Grade Fiction

In The Role of Brie Hutchens by Nicole Melleby | Goodreads

An own-voices LGBTQ novel from the acclaimed author of Hurricane Season, about eighth-grader Brie, who learns how to be true to herself and to her relationships with family, friends, and faith.

The Mighty Heart of Sunny St. James by Ashley Herring Blake | Goodreads

Twelve-year-old Sunny St. James navigates heart surgery, reconnections with a lost mother, first kisses, and emerging feelings for another girl.

Kenzie Kickstarts a Team by Kit Rosewater | Goodreads

A highly illustrated middle-grade series that celebrates new friendships, first crushes, and getting out of your comfort zone

Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the World by Ashley Herring Blake | Goodreads

In the wake of a destructive tornado, one girl develops feelings for another in this stunning, tender novel about emerging identity, perfect for fans of The Thing About Jellyfish.

Will you be picking up any of these books? Tell us in the comments below!

The post LGBTQ+ Alphabet Recommendations: L for Lesbian Fiction appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Read on to discover our January to June picks and tell us in the comments below if you will be checking any of these out!

JANUARY

Marriage on Madison Avenue (Central Park Pact #3) by Lauren Layne
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From New York Times bestselling author Lauren Layne, comes the final instalment of the Central Park Pact series, a heartfelt and laugh-out-loud romantic comedy that’s perfect for fans of Sally Thorne and Christina Lauren.

Love Her or Lose Her by Tessa Bailey
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

New York Times bestselling author Tessa Bailey returns with a unique, sexy romantic comedy about a young married couple whose rocky relationship needs a serious renovation.

You Were There Too by Colleen Oakley
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Acclaimed author Colleen Oakley delivers a heart-wrenching and unforgettable love story about a woman who must choose between the man she loves and the man fate has chosen for her in a novel that reminds us that the best life is one led by the heart.

A Favor for a Favor (All In #2) by Helena Hunting
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the New York Times bestselling author of Pucked and A Lie for a Lie, a new stand-alone romance about trading favours, battling wills, and winning love.

And Then One Day by Samantha Chase
Goodreads | Amazon

Courtney Baker is ready to put small town life—and the man she can’t have—behind her. At least she’ll be able to forget all about it when she leaves town in less than 48 hours. It takes a lot to surprise Dean Jones, but a kiss from the girl he’s been secretly attracted to for years does just that and he doesn’t want to let her go. But she’s his sister’s best friend and that’s a line he knows he should never cross.

Frenemies by Emma Hart
Goodreads | Amazon

There are some things you just have to deal with. Like your hot as hell college booty call moving in next door with his adorable daughter. The only time we’ve ever gotten along is under the sheets. My roommate is determined to see me married before she bites the dust. Unfortunately for me, she’s got her eye set on Cameron Black.

FEBRUARY

The Worst Best Man by Mia Sosa
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Critically acclaimed author Mia Sosa delivers a sassy, steamy enemies-to-lovers romantic comedy about a woman whose new job requires her to work side-by-side with the best man who ruined her wedding: her ex-fiancé’s infuriating, irritating, annoyingly handsome brother. Perfect for fans of Jasmine Guillory, Helen Hoang, and Sally Thorne!

A Love Hate Thing by Whitney D. Grandison
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Tyson Trice finds himself tossed into the wealthy coastal community of Pacific Hills after recovering from being shot and surviving the rough streets of Lindenwood. Golden girl Nandy Smith has spent most of her life building the pristine image that it takes to fit in when it comes to her hometown Pacific Hills where image is everything. After learning that her parents are taking in a troubled teen boy, Nandy fears her summer plans, as well as her reputation, will go up in flames.

The Kissing Game by Marie Harte
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Rena Jackson is ready. She’s worked her tail off to open up her own hair salon, and she’s almost ready to quit her job at the dive bar. Rena’s also a diehard romantic, and she’s had her eye on bar regular Axel Heller for a while. He’s got that tall-brooding-and-handsome thing going big time. Problem is, he’s got that buttoned-up Germanic ice man thing going as well. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, Rena’s about ready to give up on Axel and find her own Mr. Right.

Been There, Married That by Gigi Levangie Grazer
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Been There, Married That is a drop-dead hilarious battle of wills that will make you laugh out loud, cringe, and keep turning the pages to see what crazy disaster will happen to Agnes next…and how she’ll rise from the ashes.

Chasing Cassandra by Lisa Kleypas
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Railway magnate Tom Severin is wealthy and powerful enough to satisfy any desire as soon as it arises. Anything—or anyone—is his for the asking. It should be simple to find the perfect wife—and from his first glimpse of Lady Cassandra Ravenel, he’s determined to have her. But the beautiful and quick-witted Cassandra is equally determined to marry for love—the one thing he can’t give.

Loud Mouth by Avery Flynn
Goodreads | Amazon

Don’t miss the next hot, hockey romcom from USA Today bestselling author Avery Flynn.

MARCH

The Honey-Don’t List by Christina Lauren
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the New York Times bestselling author behind The Unhoneymooners comes a delightfully charming love story about what happens when two assistants tasked with keeping a rocky relationship from explosion start to feel sparks of their own.

In Five Years by Rebecca Serle
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Perfect for fans of Me Before You and One Day—a striking, powerful, and moving love story following an ambitious lawyer who experiences an astonishing vision that could change her life forever.

Undercover Bromance by Lyssa Kay Adams
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Inspired by the romantic suspense novel they’re reading, the book club assist Liv in setting up a sting operation to take down the chef. But they’re just as eager to help Mack figure out the way to Liv’s heart… even while she’s determined to squelch the sparks between them before she gets burned.

If I Never Met You by Mhairi McFarlane
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Internationally bestselling author Mhairi McFarlane returns with another heartful romantic comedy perfect for fans of Josie Silver, Sophie Kinsella, or Sally Thorne.

The Two Lives of Lydia Bird by Josie Silver
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In this next captivating love story from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of One Day in December, a young woman is reunited with her late fiancé in a parallel life. But is this happy ending the one she really wants?

All I Ask by Corinne Michaels
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the New York Times bestselling author of One Last Time comes a breathtaking story about first love, second chances, and starting over.

APRIL

The Happy Ever After Playlist by Abby Jimenez
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the USA Today bestselling author of The Friend Zone comes an adorable and fresh romantic comedy about one trouble-making dog who brings together two perfect strangers.

Not That Kind of Guy by Andie J. Christopher
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

An office attraction becomes something more when they’re off the clock in this delightful romantic comedy by the USA Today bestselling author of Not the Girl You Marry.

The Ingredients of You and Me by Nina Bocci
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the USA TODAY bestselling author of On the Corner of Love and Hate comes a sizzling and sweet small-town love story that follows a bakery store owner who decides to take her chances on a truly hopeless romantic.

You Deserve Each Other by Sarah Hogle
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

When your nemesis also happens to be your fiancé, happily ever after becomes a lot more complicated in this wickedly funny, lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers romantic comedy debut.

To Have and to Hoax by Martha Waters
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In this fresh and hilarious historical rom-com, an estranged husband and wife in Regency England feign accidents and illness in an attempt to gain attention—and maybe just win each other back in the process.

The Business of Lovers by Eric Jerome Dickey
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

All is fair in love and lust in New York Times bestselling author Eric Jerome Dickey’s tale of two brothers, four women, and the business of desire.

MAY

The Trouble With Hating You by Sajni Patel
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A laugh-out-loud romantic comedy debut about first impressions, second chances, and finding the love of your life in the most unexpected way.

Something to Talk About by Meryl Wilsner
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A showrunner and her assistant give the world something to talk about when they accidentally fuel a ridiculous rumor in this debut romance.

Deal with the Devil by Kit Rocha
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Orphan Black meets the post-apocalyptic Avengers in the vein of Ilona Andrews’ Hidden Legacy series by USA Today and New York Times bestselling author duo Kit Rocha.

Beach Read by Emily Henry
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A romance writer who no longer believes in love and a literary writer stuck in a rut engage in a summer-long challenge that may just upend everything they believe about happily ever afters.

The Tourist Attraction by Sarah Morgenthaler
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

When Graham Barnett named his diner The Tourist Trap, he meant it as a joke. Now he’s stuck slinging reindeer dogs to an endless string of resort visitors who couldn’t interest him less. Not even the sweet, enthusiastic tourist in the corner who blushes every time he looks her way…

Hideaway by Nora Roberts
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A family ranch in Big Sur country and a legacy of Hollywood royalty set the stage for Nora Roberts’ emotional new suspense novel.

JUNE

The Heir Affair by Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Making it up the aisle was the easy part: After marrying the heir to the throne, Rebecca “Bex” Porter must survive her own scandals as she adjusts to life in the glamorous British royal family, in this “highly anticipated” follow-up to The Royal We.

Take a Hint, Dani Brown by Talia Hibbert
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Talia Hibbert returns with another charming romantic comedy about a young woman who agrees to fake date her friend after a video of him “rescuing” her from their office building goes viral…

The Marriage Game by Sara Desai
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A high stakes wager pits an aspiring entrepreneur against a ruthless CEO in this sexy romantic comedy.

The Boyfriend Project by Farrah Rochon
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

USA Today bestselling author Farrah Rochon launches a new series about three young women who become friends when the live Tweeting of a disastrous date leads them to discover they’ve all been duped by the same man.

The Falling in Love Montage by Ciara Smyth
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Two girls embark on a summer of montage-worthy dates (with a few strings attached) in this hilarious and heartfelt lesbian rom-com that’s perfect for fans of Becky Albertalli and Jenny Han.

Daring and the Duke by Sarah MacLean
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

New York Times bestselling author Sarah MacLean returns with the much-anticipated final book in her Bareknuckle Bastards series, featuring a scoundrel duke and the powerful woman who brings him to his knees.

What romance release are you looking forward to the most? Tell us in the comments below!

The post The Most Anticipated 2020 Romance Book Releases appeared first on The Nerd Daily.