Your TBR better watch out because there are so many spectacular YA books hitting shelves over the next few months! With new releases from Amie Kaufman, Lexi Ryan, Karen M. McManus, Maureen Johnson, Sarah Henning, Lynn Painter, Danielle Paige, Kalyn Josephson, and Courtney Gould, along with a few debut novels, there’s something for every reader to pick up and enjoy between July and December!

Read on to discover just a few of our picks and also be sure to check out our Most Anticipated and Swoonworthy Romance lists for more releases!

JULY 2024

The Heart of the World by Amie Kaufman

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Magic and sacrifice will collide as lovers and gods, enemies and allies vie for the fate of the world in this heart-pounding sequel to THE ISLES OF THE GODS, which Stephanie Garber called “deliciously diabolical and full of heart.” (Now publishes in September 2024)

Our Wicked Histories by Amy Goldsmith

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A teen girl’s attempt to make amends with her former friend group takes a sinister turn during a weekend getaway at an ancestral Irish estate in this atmospheric, literary horror from the author of Those We Drown.

Cursed Boys and Broken Hearts by Adam Sass

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A swoony contemporary romance from Adam Sass following a boy who is cursed to doom any romantic relationship—and the summer that changes everything.

A Darker Mischief by Derek Milman

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The Honeys meets The Secret History in a work of dark academia like no other — a boarding school thriller about a queer teen from Mississippi who finds himself swept into a world of old money, privilege, and the secret society at the heart of it all.

A Magic Fierce and Bright by Hemant Nayak

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A young technomancer teams up with a handsome thief to save her sister in this propulsive, magic-filled young adult fantasy that is perfect for fans of Gearbreakers and Iron Widow.

The Blonde Dies First by Joelle Wellington

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A group of friends fight to choose their own fates in this trope-savvy, self-referential young adult thriller from the acclaimed author of Their Vicious Games, about a demonic force that acts according to horror movie rules in the spirit of the Scream movies.

Beneath These Cursed Stars by Lexi Ryan

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From #1 New York Times bestselling author Lexi Ryan comes a romantic fantasy in which a human princess armed with death’s kiss and a fae shifter on the run become unlikely allies when a mission to assassinate an evil king collides with a fatal prophecy.

Ready or Not by Andi Porretta

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An anxious teen hopes that a summer of adventure and offbeat dares will keep her friend group together after graduation in this luminous coming-of-age graphic novel with the feel-good vibes of Booksmart and Morgan Matson’s Since You’ve Been Gone.

Such Charming Liars by Karen M. McManus

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The newest mystery from the author One of Us Is Lying, the Queen of thrillers, Karen M. McManus! When mother-daughter grifters set out on their final job, the heist gets deadly and dangerously personal.

Break to You by Neal Shusterman, Debra Young and Michelle Knowlden

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Bestselling author of Scythe and Challenger Deep Neal Shusterman, here with coauthors Debra Young and Michelle Knowlden, tells an intense yet tender story of two teens, trapped in impossible circumstances and unjust systems, willing to risk everything for love—no matter the consequences.

So Witches We Became by Jill Baguchinsky

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A queer, feminist spin on Stephen King’s The Mist, this ode to female-rage is a perfect pick for fans of She Is a Haunting, and a reminder that if “boys will be boys”, girls will fight back.

Hearts Overboard by Becky Dean

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Set sail with this banter-filled rivals-to-lovers romance between a STEM-loving girl and a jock guy that will fill you with wanderlust…and have you rooting for love in the great outdoors!

AUGUST 2024

Ami by S. Jae-Jones

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Filled with adventure, romance and a race against time, Guardians of Dawn: Ami is the next book in the richly imagined Guardians of Dawn series.

The Dark We Know by Wen-yi Lee

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From Gillian Flynn Books, a lyrical young adult horror by debut author Wen-yi Lee that’s perfect for fans of She Is a Haunting, Stephen King’s IT, and The Haunting of Hill House.

Death at Morning House by Maureen Johnson

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From the bestselling author of the Truly Devious books, Maureen Johnson, comes a new stand-alone YA about a teen who uncovers a mystery while working as a tour guide on an island and must solve it before history repeats itself.

This Ravenous Fate by Hayley Dennings

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The first book in a decadent fantasy duology set in Jazz Age Harlem, where at night the dance halls come to life―and death waits in the dark.

A Banh Mi for Two by Trinity Nguyen

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In this sweet sapphic romance about two foodies in love, Vivi meets Lan while studying abroad in Vietnam and they spend the semester unraveling their families’ histories―and eating all the street food in Sài Gòn.

Everything We Never Had by Randy Ribay

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From the author of the National Book Award finalist Patron Saints of Nothing comes an emotionally charged, moving novel about four generations of Filipino American boys grappling with identity, masculinity, and their fraught father-son relationships.

The Empire Wars by Akana Phenix

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The Empire Wars is a powerful new YA fantasy in which magic may be a young woman’s only hope for survival.

Wisteria by Adalyn Grace

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#1 New York Times bestselling author Adalyn Grace delivers a sensational conclusion to the deathly and decadent Belladonna trilogy, with dramatic twists and a seductive new romance that will set readers’ hearts ablaze.

Come Out, Come Out by Natalie C. Parker

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A spine-tingling LGBTQIA+ YA horror about queer teens who accidentally invoke a twisted spirit who promises help but delivers something sinister.

Silent Sister by Megan Davidhizar

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The must-read suspense novel of the summer about a mysterious sister’s disappearance, her biggest betrayal and a deadly truth screaming to come out.  

Practical Rules for Cursed Witches by Kayla Cottingham

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From the New York Times bestselling author of My Dearest Darkest comes a sapphic fantasy adventure about a teen witch who must complete her magical training by breaking a powerful family’s curse. But her own affliction—to never find true love—gets in the way when she falls for the girl she’s trying to save.

Under The Surface by Diana Urban

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An epic survival-thriller about four teens who get lost in the Paris catacombs for days—a gripping and propulsive story of love, danger, betrayal, and hope… even when all seems lost.

SEPTEMBER 2024

Payal Mehta’s Romance Revenge Plot by Preeti Chhibber

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This laugh-out-loud debut romance introduces perfectly imperfect Payal Mehta, whose plan to get her long-time crush to finally notice her is destined for success, but only if she ignores her budding feelings for her archnemesis…

Compound Fracture by Andrew Joseph White

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A queer Appalachian thriller that pulls no punches—following a trans autistic teen who’s drawn into the generational struggle between the rural poor and those who exploit them.

The Lies We Conjure by Sarah Henning

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Knives Out meets The Inheritance Games with magic in this standalone supernatural thriller by Sarah Henning: thirteen witches, a locked-room murder, and two non-magical sisters trapped in a deadly whodunit.

The Thirteenth Child by Erin A. Craig

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From the astonishing mind of Erin A. Craig comes the breathtaking fairy tale retelling readers have been waiting for— what does a life well-lived mean, and how do we justify the impossible choices we make for the ones we love?

Everything Glittered by Robin Talley

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In this queer historical thriller from a New York Times bestselling author, society girls try to find a murderer in a city filled with secrets and stunted by shame. Perfect for fans of Last Night at the Telegraph Club.

When Haru Was Here by Dustin Thao

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From the New York Times bestselling author Dustin Thao, We Are Okay meets Wandavision in this novel about loss, and learning to let go.

The Monstrous Kind by Lydia Gregovic

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An atmospheric, haunting, romantasy inspired by Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility, set in a Regency England about two sisters fighting to hold on to their manor while deadly monsters prowl along its perimeters—perfect for fans of House of Salt and Sorrows and Anatomy: A Love Story.

The Hysterical Girls of St. Bernadette’s by Hanna Alkaf

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An all-girls school is struck with mysterious cases of screaming hysteria in this chilling dark academia thriller haunted by a deeply buried history clawing to the light.

Nothing Like the Movies by Lynn Painter

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In this highly anticipated sequel to the New York Times bestselling Better than the Movies, Wes and Liz struggle to balance their feelings for each other with the growing pains of being a college student.

To The Bone by Alena Bruzas

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This moving and tragic love story is also a starkly honest look at Colonial America, set during the “Starving Time” in Jamestown.

Spells To Forget Us by Aislinn Brophy

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A witch and a non-magical girl get stuck in an endless cycle of meet-cutes and breakups in this heart-stopping romantic young adult fantasy.

Faeries Never Lie, Edited by Zoraida Córdova and Natalie C. Parker

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Faeries Never Lie, the next young adult collection in the Untold Legends series edited by Zoraida Córdova and Natalie C. Parker, is filled with fourteen short stories to revel in, that center faeries of varying genders and cultures!

OCTOBER 2024

Tangleroot by Kalela Williams

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In this debut novel, chosen by booksellers as an Indies Introduce selection, a girl must face hard truths about blood and family, history and mystery.

Inheritance of Scars by Crystal Seitz

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House of Roots and Ruin meets The Darkest Part of the Forest in this gorgeous dark fantasy debut steeped in Norse mythology that follows a teen who accidentally awakens an imprisoned draugr and must follow him into a deadly magical forest to rescue her grandmother.

Spell of the Sinister by Danielle Paige

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In New York Times bestselling author Danielle Paige’s wickedly fresh take on beloved tales, the fairy godmothers make the rules. Be careful what you wish for . . .

Make My Wish Come True by Rachael Lippincott and Alyson Derrick

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‘Tis the season for holiday hijinks in the newest sapphic rom-com about a rising star and a small town girl going on twelve fake holidates from the New York Times bestselling authors of She Gets the Girl, Rachael Lippincott and Alyson Derrick!

The Wild Huntress by Emily Lloyd-Jones

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Dive into a lush, standalone fantasy, set in the same world as The Drowned Woods and The Bone Houses, about a deadly competition—perfect for fans of Holly Black and Erin A. Craig.

Twenty-Four Seconds from Now by Jason Reynolds

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#1 New York Times bestselling author Jason Reynolds tackles it—you know…it—from the guy’s perspective in this unfiltered and undeniably sweet stream of consciousness story of a teen boy about to experience a huge first.

Eleven Houses by Colleen Oakes

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Midnight Mass meets The Vampire Diaries in this epic romantic tale of a mysterious island and the houses who have stood for centuries to guard against the dreaded nightmare of beings waiting to strike from the ocean’s depths.

For She Is Wrath by Emily Varga

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A sweeping, Pakistani romantic fantasy retelling of The Count of Monte Cristo, where one girl seeks revenge against those who betrayed her—including the boy she used to love.

The Dividing Sky by Jill Tew

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Serpent & Dove meets Arcane in this dystopian romance debut that follows a cunning memory merchant who deals a little extra happiness on the side and the handsome rookie officer on her tail!

Fledgling: The Keeper’s Records of Revolution by S. K. Ali

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The first book in a gripping duology from acclaimed author S.K. Ali introduces a fractured world on the brink of either enlightenment or war.

Inferno’s Heir by Tiffany Wang

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Fearing for her life, an outcast princess joins the rebellion against her own kingdom and family. . . but when playing with fire, someone always gets burned. 

The Debutantes by Olivia Worley

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Jessica Goodman meets The Agathas in this taut, twisty YA thriller set in the glittering world of Mardi Gras in New Orleans, where secrets–and bodies–never stay buried.

NOVEMBER 2024

Heist Royale by Kayvion Lewis

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The new Gambit takes Ross and her crew into the intoxicating casinos of Monte Carlo and across treacherous snow-covered slopes in Antarctica as Ross competes against Devroe in a fight for her life. Loyalties will be tested, backs stabbed, hearts broken. May the best thief win.

Darkly by Marisha Pessl

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A seemingly ordinary high school student. A mysterious summer internship. And a legendary game designer, now dead, leaving a dark legacy. The New York Times bestselling author of Night Film spins a twisted web in this masterful YA psychological thriller.

I Am the Dark That Answers When You Call by Jamison Shea

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Jamison Shea’s sharp and unflinching voice will bring readers to terrifying new heights in this vicious sequel to the “relentlessly gory and almost euphoric in its embrace of the horrific” (NPR) I Feed Her to the Beast and the Beast is Me.

The Whispering Night by Susan Dennard

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The forest is more dangerous than ever in this highly-anticipated, pulse-pounding, and swoon-worthy conclusion to the bestselling Luminaries trilogy.

Rani Choudhury Must Die by Adiba Jaigirdar

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In this sapphic dual POV Young Adult romance by Adiba Jaigirdar, Meghna and Rani (ex-best-friends-turned-rivals) realize they’re dating the same guy, so they team up to beat and expose him at a big science competition!

When Mimi Went Missing by Suja Sukumar

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The splintered relationship between two Indian American cousins is at the center of this dark, twisty YA mystery—perfect for fans of Tiffany D. Jackson, Karen McManus, and Angeline Boulley.

Midnights With You by Clare Osongco

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Fans of Susan Lee and Dustin Thao will be enchanted by this soulful YA romance about how we love, how we heal, and how we find the strength to go on.

Our Deadly Designs by Kalyn Josephson

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The Shadows Between Us meets The Scorpio Races in the epic conclusion to NYT bestselling Kalyn Josephson’s This Dark Descent, called “a fierce and darkly magical thrill ride” by acclaimed author Ava Reid.

Perfect Girl by Tracy Banghart

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Jessa has been raised to be the “perfect girl”, but things go south. A killer looking for the perfect girl has targeted Jessa, and she’ll have to reject everything she’s been taught if she wants to keep herself―and her friends―alive until sunrise.

If You Can Hear This by Faith Gardner

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The twisty, intricate mystery of I Killed Zoe Spanos meets the whip-smart sleuthing of A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder in the newest novel from acclaimed author Faith Gardner, in which a club of misfits must come together to solve a dangerous mystery—and learn to lean on each other all the while.

Dead Girls Don’t Dream by Nino Cipri

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There are rules for Voynich Woods: Always carry a whistle. Never go alone. Always come home before dark. And if anyone calls your name, don’t answer. Because everyone who wanders from the path is never seen again.

Flopping in a Winter Wonderland by Jason June

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Sparks are flying in Winter Wonderland this Christmas in this LGBTQ+ young adult rom-com from Jason June, New York Times bestselling author of Out of the Blue, Jay’s Gay Agenda, and Riley Weaver Needs a Date to the Gaybutante Ball!

DECEMBER 2024

A Cruel Thirst by Angela Montoya

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A fledgling vampire and a headstrong vampire huntress must work together–against their better judgment–to rid the world of monsters in this irresistible romantic fantasy.

Dust by Alison Stine

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In this haunting, speculative coming-of-age novel about finding your place in an unforgiving environment, a partially deaf teen questions everything she knows about family, love, and her future.

Keep It in the Dark by Justin Arnold

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In this unashamedly queer, supernatural romance, Justin Arnold, author of Wicked Little Things, challenges the institutions that have sidelined queer love to the shadows, and brings it into the light.

We Are the Beasts by Gigi Griffis

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Deaths and disappearances pile up as a mysterious beast stalks the French countryside and two girls seize an unlikely opportunity that just might save them all—or serve them up on a platter.

What the Woods Took by Courtney Gould

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Yellowjackets meets Girl, Interrupted when a group of troubled teens in a wilderness therapy program find themselves stranded in a forest full of monsters eager to take their place.

You’re Dead to Me by Amy Christine Parker

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Gossip Girl meets Happy Death Day in this YA horror novel following high school outcast and anonymous social media gossip Ruby, who comes face-to-face with her own ghost dressed in a blood-splattered prom dress. With less than a week until the dance, Ruby must unmask her killer—or die trying.

What YA books are you looking forward to hitting shelves between July and December? Tell us in the comments below!

The post 66 YA Books Hitting Bookshelves Between July and December 2024 appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

We chat with author Tracy Banghart about her latest release, A Season of Sinister Dreams, along with writing, book recommendations, and more!

Hi, Tracy! Can you tell our readers a bit about yourself?

Hi! I’m the author of several YA fantasies, including the Grace and Fury series and A Season of Sinister Dreams. I’m a bit of a nomad—I grew up in Maryland, and have lived in Canada, Italy, the UK, Hawaii, and several states along the East Coast. I love to bake, knit, and drink tea…so I’m basically a grandma. Lol. My summer project is building a huge Lego city with my son.

With half of 2021 now behind us, how’s 2021 been for you so far?

2021 has been much like 2020 for me, except with more hope. My son finished a full year of virtual learning, my husband and I got our vaccinations (hooray!), and we’ve been able to visit with family for the first time in a year, which is such a relief. It’s been a challenging time for me creatively, but I feel very fortunate to be celebrating a book release! And I do have a few more little surprises on the way. I’m enjoying the small steps we’ve taken back to normalcy.

Quick lightning round! Tell us the first book you ever remember reading, the one that made you want to become an author, and one that you can’t stop thinking about!

There’s this picture book called Miss Suzy about a little gray squirrel with a house in an oak tree. I used to read that all the time – lately, I’ve been reading it to my daughter! The book that made me want to be a writer was Beauty by Robin McKinley. I remember reading it in eighth grade and having that lightbulb moment of “I want to tell stories like this.” As for a book I can’t stop thinking about, I’d say The Theft of Sunlight by Intisar Khanani. It’s so gorgeously written, I’ve completely invested in the characters, and it ends on a brutal cliffhanger! I can’t wait to find out what happens next.

When did you first discover your love for writing?

I’ve known I wanted to be an author since I was a kid. I’ve always enjoyed telling stories, from the time I was first learning to write. I think it was Stephen King who called writing “magic”…in that you put words on a page and they create images in other people’s minds. It’s such an incredible form of alchemy.

Your latest novel, A Season of Sinister Dreams, is out now! If you could only describe it in five words, what would they be?

Magical girls, dead prince, mayhem.

What can readers expect?

Lots of dark, mysterious visions, a giant golden wolf, BFFs who would die for each other, royal intrigue, and a lot of magic.

Where did the inspiration for A Season of Sinister Dreams come from?

I started writing A SEASON OF SINISTER DREAMS years ago. I was on vacation with my family, and I was struggling with my writing…it looked like my dreams of being published might not come true. I was looking for a way to process my grief and feel hope and joy in my writing again. I decided to write a traditional fantasy just for myself, inspired by the books of Robin McKinley that I’d loved as a teenager, and by my dog, Scrabble, who was big and yellow and looked so at home in the wilds of Northern Ontario, where we were staying. The book changed and grew over the years. But at its heart, it’s always been a story about managing grief, the hope that those who leave us are never really gone, and what it takes to be at peace with yourself and what you can offer the world. The irony, for a book about grief, is that a week before its release, I had to say goodbye to Scrabble, my inspiration and constant companion for almost 15 years. And now, as his book goes out into the world, I find myself hoping, as ever, that those we love stay with us, and that I’ll see him again someday.

Can you tell us about any challenges you faced while writing and how you were able to overcome them?

When I was writing the first draft, I went through one of the biggest bouts of writer’s block I’ve ever had. I knew something sad had to happen, but I didn’t want to write it. So I kept procrastinating and putting it off. To this day, that chapter always makes me cry when I read it. I’m so proud of how it turned out. Another challenge came later, in the revision stage. I knew it wasn’t quite working, but I couldn’t figure out what it needed – until I had a chat with my editor. The original version of the story only had one point of view character. Adding Annalise’s perspective made all the difference…and her chapters ended up being so fun to write.

Were there any favourite moments or characters you really enjoyed writing or exploring?

I loved writing Annalise’s point of view. Because she came to the story after the framework was already there, I could really relax and have fun with her voice. She’s such an interesting character to me – I’d never really written any morally gray or “villain” POVs before hers. Another thing I really loved exploring was the friendship between Evra and Tamsin. They’re best friends and have each other’s backs no matter what. I loved how protective Tamsin was of Evra and how she stuck with her through the worst of times. I love them both so much. #friendshipgoals

What’s the best and the worst writing advice you have received?

Best: It’s not advice per se, but Nanowrimo really helped me when I was first starting to write seriously. I found it really, really helpful to have that motivation to push through the first draft. I don’t really like drafting all that much – revising is my favorite part. So learning to get out of my own way and just get words down for that first draft really helped.

Worst: That you have to write every day to be a “real” writer.

What’s next for you?

I’m working on another YA fantasy at the moment, and I’ve got a fun non-YA project coming down the pike that I can’t talk about quite yet. Hopefully I’ll be able share more details soon!

Lastly, do you have any book recommendations for our readers?

Thorn and The Theft of Sunlight by Intisar Khanani are amazing. I also loved The Downstairs Girl by Stacey Lee and Gita Trelease’s duology, All That Glitters and Everything That Burns.

Will you be picking up A Season of Sinister Dreams? Tell us in the comments below!

The post Q&A: Tracy Banghart, Author of ‘A Season of Sinister Dreams’ appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

The Nature of Witches by Rachel Griffin
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Practical Magic meets Twister in this debut contemporary fantasy standalone about heartbreaking power, the terror of our collapsing atmosphere, and the ways we unknowingly change our fate.

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 Wolf and the Woodsman by Ava Reid
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In the vein of Naomi Novik’s New York Times bestseller Spinning Silver and Katherine Arden’s national bestseller The Bear and the Nightingale, this unforgettable debut— inspired by Hungarian history and Jewish mythology—follows a young pagan woman with hidden powers and a one-eyed captain of the Woodsmen as they form an unlikely alliance to thwart a tyrant.

Seven Deaths of an Empire by G. R. Matthews
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A new grimdark fantasy for fans of Anna Smith-Spark, GRR Martin and Mark Lawrence.

The Tangleroot Palace: Stories by Marjorie Liu
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New York Times bestseller and Hugo, British Fantasy, Romantic Times, and Eisner award-winning author of the graphic novel, Monstress, Marjorie Liu leads you deep into the heart of the tangled woods. In her long-awaited debut story collection, dark, lush, and spellbinding short fiction you will find unexpected detours, dangerous magic, and even more dangerous women.

The Ninth Metal by Benjamin Percy
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From award-winning author Benjamin Percy comes an explosive, breakout speculative thriller in which a powerful new metal arrives on Earth in the wake of a meteor shower, triggering a massive new “gold rush” in the Midwest and turning life as we know it on its head. The first of a cycle of novels set in a shared universe.

The Coward by Stephen Aryan
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Who will take up the mantle and slay the evil in the Frozen North, saving all from death and destruction? Not Kell Kressia, he’s done his part…

The World Gives Way by Marissa Levien
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In a near-future world on the brink of collapse, a young woman born into servitude must seize her own freedom in this glittering debut with a brilliant twist; perfect for fans of Station Eleven, Karen Thompson Walker, and Naomi Alderman.

For the Wolf by Hannah Whitten
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For fans of Uprooted and The Bear and the Nightingale comes a dark fantasy novel about a young woman who must be sacrificed to the legendary Wolf of the Wood to save her kingdom. But not all legends are true, and the Wolf isn’t the only danger lurking in the Wilderwood.

Wendy, Darling by A.C. Wise
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A lush, feminist re-imagining on what happened to Wendy after Neverland, for fans of Circe and The Mere Wife.

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.

The Library of the Dead by T.L. Huchu
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Sixth Sense meets Stranger Things in T. L. Huchu’s The Library of the Dead, a sharp contemporary fantasy following a precocious and cynical teen as she explores the shadowy magical underside of modern Edinburgh.

What June fantasy and sci-fi books are you looking forward to? Tell us in the comments below!

The post June 2021 Fantasy & Sci-Fi Book Releases 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
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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
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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
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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.

Tracy Banghart’s conclusion to the Grace and Fury duology, Queen of Ruin, recently released and it is amazing! Our contributor, Teralyn, had the pleasure of talking with Tracy about her latest release, her writing habits, and much more. Check out the interview below!

Can you tell our readers a little about you?

It’s a good thing I enjoy traveling and seeing new places because as an Army wife I move a lot! I’ve lived in five states and four different countries. I love baking, knitting, and Lego-ing. Someday I’m going to put together the Lego Disney Castle. #goals I have two dogs, two children, and overflowing bookshelves.

What inspires you to write?

I usually write about things that make me uncomfortable, but in a way that helps me take control. For example, the Grace and Fury series was inspired by my frustration with all the sexism I was seeing and experiencing, particularly after the last election. I wanted to write about it in a way that empowered me, and hopefully my readers too. I have another series, beginning with Rebel Wing, that was inspired by my husband being deployed and how helpless I felt stuck at home without him while he was doing this scary, important thing.

What is the most difficult part of your artistic process? What’s the easiest part?

For me, the hardest part is drafting. The blank page is so intimidating! I’m actually really productive while I’m drafting…at getting the rest of my life in order. Anything to procrastinate actually putting words on the page. But I love revising. I wouldn’t say it’s “easy” per se, but it’s my favorite part of the writing process.

Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

I usually spend the morning taking care of the business side of writing—returning emails, updating my website, etc.—and then write in the afternoon and evening.

Queen of Ruin was such an intriguing and amazing read! Can you tell us a little about the book?

If Grace and Fury is all about establishing this bleak, patriarchal world, Queen of Ruin is about tearing it all down. My sisters face new challenges but overall are seeking the same thing: freedom, and each other. I love how their story ends, and I hope you do too!

What was your process with coming up with this sequel? How hard was it to figure out where this story would go and how it would end?

I had a general sense of where I wanted the story to end from the very beginning of the writing process. But as I was writing, moments and plot twists popped up and surprised me! In particular, Serina has a full circle moment at the end that I wasn’t expecting but am very happy about. I love that you can have a really clear plan for where your characters are going, and they can still surprise you!

If you had to describe Queen of Ruinin five words, which words would you choose?

Rebellion, empowerment, bloodshed, loyalty, sisterhood.

Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?

The book includes one of my very favorite tropes—the “we have to pretend to be married and stay in the same bedroom” trope.

What is the key theme and/or message in the book?

I really wanted to write a story where girls work together, love interests play supporting roles, and finding one’s agency is the central theme.

What do you hope your readers take away from this book?

Most of all, I just hope they enjoy the ride. I hope the read is fun and exciting and they’re happy with where Serina and Nomi end up.

Out of all the characters you’ve created, who resembles you the most? Who is the most unlike you?

In Queen of Ruin, Nomi is probably most like me. In all of my writing, I’d say Aris from Rebel Wing. She’s certainly the most aspirational. As for who’s most unlike me, probably Serina. She becomes so physically strong and fearless—I have so much respect for her and love where her journey takes her.

Let’s end this interview with a couple of fun questions! Would you rather have an endless summer or an endless winter?

Endless summer, but like 75 degrees and sunny summer. Lol. I don’t like to be really hot OR really cold.

Would you rather have constant nagging pain or a constant itch?

Neither? Ha ha. But if I had to choose, probably an itch.

And one final question: do you have any book recommendations for us?

Here are some of my favorite reads of this year so far:
The Beholder by Anna Bright
The Deceivers by Kristen Simmons
Rule and Rise by Ellen Goodlett
The Way You Make Me Feel by Maurene Goo

Have you read anything by Tracy Banghart? Tell us in the comments below!

The post Interview: Tracy Banghart, Author of ‘Queen of Ruin’ appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Queen of Ruin is the sequel to Grace and Fury, by Tracy Banghart. Queen of Ruin is a powerful story about female empowerment and finding your voice. Serina and Nomi both had to reinvent themselves throughout the series but more so in Queen of Ruin when they were faced with obstacles that threatened to tear them apart forever.

Queen of Ruin starts right where Grace and Fury left off with Serina and the women on Mount Ruin having led a successful revolt and overpowered the guards and Nomi on a boat with Maris and Malachi headed to Mount Ruin. The sisters are reunited and learn what the other has been through to since they were separated. Malachi needs to get back to the palace so that he can gain his rightful place back from his brother. The story progresses from there with Nomi and Serina having to go their separate ways, this time by choice. Nomi needs to go back to Viridia to find her brother and parents. Malachi goes back with her so that he can gather up an army to oppose his younger brother, Asa. Serina needs to make sure the women of Mount Ruin get to Azura safely. Both Serina and Nomi have to deal with obstacles and challenges while fighting for their rights as women in Viridia.

Serina grew so much from the first book to this one. She was submissive and polite in Grace and Fury when she was sent to Mount Ruin for reading a book. The world of Viridia has put women down for centuries because they feared what giving women power could lead to based on a history they’ve suppressed. Women were not allowed to be educated, any wages they made were given to their husband, and they were basically property of those husbands. The highest honor for a woman was being a Grace which was just a courtesan to the superior (one of many wives). That was what Serina was raised to be and she did so with no thought to what could be better but being sent to Mount Ruin and being around a lot of other women who had been sent there for minor to major infractions and forced to fight just to survive, she realized that the way she’d been taught all her life wasn’t the right way. She became a leader to those women and formed a strong sisterhood with all of them. I loved seeing Serina grow into a warrior and a fierce, strong woman who even when scared, did what she had to do to protect the ones she loved and cared for. She went from being one of my least favorite characters to one of my all-time favorite characters by the time the series concluded.

Nomi was the rebellious sister that realized it wasn’t fair that she did not have the same rights and opportunities as her twin brother. She hated being a Grace and hated that her sister had been sent away for something that she’d done. She was always fighting to get what she thought she deserved. Sometimes it made her reckless and blind to obvious things but her heart was always in the right place. I felt like Nomi grew as well throughout the series and especially in Queen of Ruin. Her ordeals and the losses and the betrayal she had to deal with made her stronger but also made her more cautions and made her think more before she acted. She was always willing to do what she had to do to protect the ones she loved.

The love interests of the sisters, Val and Malachi, were good characters as well. I loved how Val never tried to undermine Serina. He let her be a leader and supported her in everything she did. He was a guard on Mount Ruin and was the only one who wasn’t killed or imprisoned. He could have tried to force Serina to do things the way he thought they should be done but he seemed to understand that was not what Serina needed. She needed him to be supportive and that’s what he did. Malachi was a bit different but he still never tried stifle Nomi. He was understandably upset with her for helping Asa betray him and take his throne but he eventually got over that. Their relationship was more of a slow-burn one that they didn’t explore until after everything had happened.

I enjoyed Queen of Ruin immensely because of the strong female relationships, the storyline and the amazing world. This book dealt with issues that we have today and made them work in the context of the world the author created. Queen of Ruin was a powerful and entertaining read that kept me engaged until I turned the last page!

Queen of Ruin is available on Amazon, Book Depository, and other good book retailers.

Will you be reading Queen of Ruin? Tell us in the comments below!

Synopsis | Goodreads

A fierce sequel full of sisterhood, heart pounding action, betrayal, and intrigue in the royal court in a series that “breathes new life into the feminist story of oppression and resistance” (Publisher’s Weekly).

Banished by Asa at the end of Grace and Fury, Nomi and Malachi find themselves powerless and headed towards their all-but-certain deaths. Now that Asa sits on the throne, he will stop at nothing to make sure Malachi never sets foot in the palace again. Their only hope is to find Nomi’s sister, Serina, on the prison island of Mount Ruin. But when Nomi and Malachi arrive, it is not the island of conquered, broken women that they expected. It is an island in the grip of revolution, and Serina–polite, submissive Serina–is its leader.

Betrayal, grief, and violence have changed both sisters, and the women of Mount Ruin have their sights set on revenge beyond the confines of their island prison. They plan to sweep across the entire kingdom, issuing in a new age of freedom for all. But first they’ll have to get rid of Asa, and only Nomi knows how.

Separated once again, this time by choice, Nomi and Serina must forge their own paths as they aim to tear down the world they know, and build something better in its place.

The stakes are higher and the battles bolder in Tracy Banghart’s unputdownable sequel to Grace and Fury.

The post Review: Queen of Ruin by Tracy Banghart appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Tracy Banghart’s debut novel, Grace and Fury was released last month. It is the story about two sisters living in a patriarchal society that limited all women’s rights and their fight to find their place and voice within the world they live in. She was kind enough to answer some questions from our writer, Teralyn, discussing her debut novel, writing, and more.

Tracy grew up in rural Maryland and spent her summers on a remote island in northern Ontario. All of that isolation and lovely scenery gave her the time to read voraciously and the inspiration to write her own stories. Always a bit of a nomad, Tracy now travels the world Army-wife style with her husband, son, cat, and sweet pupper, Scrabble. She wrote Grace and Fury while living in Hawaii. Its sequel will follow in July 2019.

Tell us a little about you as a person!

I’m a mother, an Army wife, and a nerd! I love rom-coms, superheroes (especially Wonder Woman), Legos, baking, travelling, and reading of course! I have two fur babies—my dog, Scrabble and cat, Mia.

How did you first get into writing?

I’ve been writing my whole life. It began with reading, of course. I grew up on Robin McKinley, Madeleine L’Engle, Cynthia Voigt, L.J. Smith. Their books gave me a place where I felt like I belonged and a dream to someday write my own stories. I started seriously writing with an eye to publication in 2009.

What is the most amazing thing about being a writer?

Having someone say they read my book. Every single review is precious to me, even the ones where readers hated the book. Because THEY READ IT! I am so honoured every time someone spends their precious time with my characters. It’s absolutely the coolest thing.

How did publishing your first book change your process of writing?

I’m not sure that publishing changed my process so much, but I definitely write my books differently now than when I first started out. I used to be a pretty big pantser—I’d know where I wanted to start the story, and where I wanted to finish, but the middle sort of figured itself out as I went. Now I plot a lot more. Publishing HAS sped up the timeline a little, so I don’t have the luxury of meandering through the plot trying to figure it out. I also LOVE deadlines. I know that sounds nuts, but they really help me stay on task. I’m much more productive when I know someone is waiting for my work.

Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?

I don’t read them all, but I admit I do sometimes glance through Goodreads and Amazon. As I said earlier, just HAVING reviews at all, seeing that people have read my book, is amazing. The positive reviews are obviously lovely to read, and I have a couple of favourites that I’ll go back to if I need a pick-me-up. In terms of bad reviews, I still value that the person gave my book a chance, so I appreciate them.

If you could tell your younger writing self anything, what would it be?

To keep writing. And to keep reading.

Grace and Fury has an intriguing premise. Where did you draw your inspiration from?

I love writing stories about girls finding their own agency and making their lives their own. With Grace and Fury, I wanted to kind of take that to the extreme. I also wanted to explore the idea of sisterhood. I don’t have a sister myself, but I am a sister to my younger brother, and I have close friends who feel like sisters. I wanted to explore that dynamic and how important it is. The setting of the book was inspired by Italy and the Big Island of Hawaii—both places I’ve been and loved.

How did you create your main characters, Serina and Nomi? What inspired each of their personalities?

Serina and Nomi are both inspired by feelings I had growing up. As the eldest sibling, I was the responsible one, with a lot of expectations heaped on my shoulders, which is all Serina. But I also felt the desire to rebel against those expectations, the desire to be my own person, whoever that was. I felt trapped and powerless, just like Nomi.

What was your hardest scene to write for Grace and Fury?

It was difficult to write Serina’s early scenes because at the beginning of the book, she buys into the patriarchal dictates of her life. I hated that she was so submissive and that she wanted so much to be a Grace. But I had to write her that way—it was realistic for my world, and it was necessary so that she’d have room to learn and grow.

What made you write a book based in a fantasy world but with no magic?

I like making up my own rules. That’s where the fantasy comes in. But I like my stories grounded too, which is why I tend to stay away from magic.

What can we expect from Grace and Fury?

Courtly intrigue, bloody battles, and fierce sisterhood. Oh, and a volcanic island prison. You know, for fun.

What can you tell us about the sequel to Grace and Fury without giving any spoilers?

I’ve already finished it, and I know who lives and dies. *evil laughter*

Lastly, do you have any book recommendations for us?

Always! Here are some fantasies I’ve recently read and LOVED: The Belles by Dhonielle Clayton, The Diminished by Kaitlyn Sage Patterson, Court of Fives by Kate Elliott, and Labyrinth Lost by Zoraida Córdova.

Check out her books on Goodreads! You can purchase Grace and Fury on Amazon, Book Depository, and other good book retailers.

Have you read anything by Tracy Banghart? Tell us in the comments below!

The post Interview: Tracy Banghart, Author of ‘Grace and Fury’ appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

There’s some exciting new mysteries and thrillers heading your way with Kara Thomas’ The Cheerleaders, Elizabeth Klehfoth’s All These Beautiful Strangers, and Hannah Jayne’s Copycat.

If you’re after some fantasy books, Lisa Jensen’s Beast is a new retelling of Beauty and The Beast, while Grace and Fury is Tracy Banghart’s Italian-inspired fantasy. Then there’s Heart of Thorns where Mia Rose wields blades until she is forced to marry, and Shelby Black has spent the past year training to be an exorcist in When Life Gives You Demons by Jennifer Honeybourn.

This month also sees Alexandra Bracken returns to The Darkest Minds series with the fourth instalment.

Read on to discover our picks and tell us in the comments below which one you’ll be reading!

Beast: A Tale of Love and Revenge by Lisa Jensen
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

They say Château Beaumont is cursed. When handsome Jean-Loup Christian Henri LeNoir, Chevalier de Beaumont, master of the estate, cruelty is revealed and Lucie vows to see him suffer. A wisewoman grants her wish, with a spell that transforms Jean-Loup into monstrous-looking Beast, reflecting the monster he is inside. Gradually, Lucie realises that Beast is an entirely different creature from the handsome chevalier, with a heart more human than Jean-Loup’s ever was. Lucie dares to hope that noble Beast has permanently replaced the cruel Jean-Loup—until an innocent beauty arrives at Beast’s château with the power to break the spell.

The Cheerleaders by Kara Thomas
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

There are no more cheerleaders in the town of Sunnybrook. First there was the car accident and not long after, the murders happened. Monica’s sister was the last cheerleader to die. After her suicide, Sunnybrook High disbanded the cheer squad. No one wanted to be reminded of the girls they lost. That was five years ago. Now the faculty and students at Sunnybrook High want to remember the lost cheerleaders. But for Monica, it’s not that easy. There are the letters in her stepdad’s desk, an unearthed, years-old cell phone, a strange new friend at school. . . . Whatever happened five years ago isn’t over. Some people in town know more than they’re saying. And somehow Monica is at the center of it all.

Heart of Thorns by Bree Barton
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In the ancient river kingdom, touch is a battlefield, bodies the instruments of war. Seventeen-year-old Mia Rose has pledged her life to hunting Gwyrach: women who can manipulate flesh, bones, breath, and blood. Not women. Demons. The same demons who killed her mother without a single scratch. But when Mia’s father suddenly announces her marriage to the prince, she is forced to trade in her knives and trousers for a sumptuous silk gown. Only after the wedding goes disastrously wrong does she discover she has dark, forbidden magic—the very magic she has sworn to destroy.

Kiss of the Royal by Lindsey Duga
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In the war against the Forces of Darkness, the Royals are losing. Princess Ivy is determined to end this centuries-long conflict once and for all, so her new battle partner must succeed where the others failed. Prince Zach’s unparalleled skill with a sword, enhanced by Ivy’s magic Kiss, should make them an unstoppable pair—but try convincing Zach of that. Prince Zach has spent his life preparing for battle, but he would rather be branded a heretic than use his lips as nothing more than a way to transfer magic. A kiss is a symbol of love, and love is the most powerful weapon they have—but try convincing Ivy of that.

Grace and Fury by Tracy Banghart
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In a world where women have no rights, sisters Serina and Nomi Tessaro face two very different fates: one in the palace, the other in prison. Serina has been groomed her whole life to become a Grace–someone to stand by the heir to the throne as a shining, subjugated example of the perfect woman. But when her headstrong and rebellious younger sister, Nomi, catches the heir’s eye, it’s Serina who takes the fall for the dangerous secret that Nomi has been hiding.

The Darkest Legacy by Alexandra Bracken
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In the fourth instalment in Alexandra Bracken’s The Darkest Minds series, five years after the destruction of the so-called rehabilitation camps that imprisoned her and countless other Psi kids, seventeen-year-old Suzume “Zu” Kimura has assumed the role of spokesperson for the interim government, fighting for the rights of Psi kids against a growing tide of misinformation and prejudice. But when she is accused of committing a horrifying act, she is forced to go on the run once more in order to stay alive.

The Supervillain and Me by Danielle Banas
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In Abby Hamilton’s world, superheroes do more than just stop crime and save cats stuck in trees—they also drink milk straight from the carton and hog the television remote. Abby’s older brother moonlights as the famous Red Comet, but without powers of her own, following in his footsteps has never crossed her mind. That is, until the city’s newest vigilante comes bursting into her life. After saving Abby from an attempted mugging, Morriston’s fledgling supervillain Iron Phantom convinces her that he’s not as evil as everyone says, and that their city is under a vicious new threat. As Abby follows him deeper into their city’s darkest secrets, she comes to learn that heroes can’t always be trusted, and sometimes it’s the good guys who wear black.

All These Beautiful Strangers by Elizabeth Klehfoth
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In the last day of summer, Grace Fairchild, the beautiful young wife of real estate mogul Allister Calloway, vanished from the family’s lake house without a trace, leaving behind her seven-year old daughter, Charlie. Years later, seventeen-year-old Charlie still struggles with the dark legacy of her family name and the mystery surrounding her mother. She throws herself into life at Knollwood, the prestigious New Englandschool and she’s has been tapped by the A’s—the school’s elite secret society well-known for terrorising the faculty, administration, and their enemies. To become a member of the A’s, Charlie must play The Game, a semester-long, diabolical high-stakes scavenger hunt that will jeopardise her friendships, her reputation, even her place at Knollwood.

The Girl You Thought I Was by Rebecca Phillips
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No one looking at Morgan Kemper would think she had a secret-at least not one that she’s deeply ashamed of. For over a year, she’s shoplifted countless pieces of clothing and makeup. Each time she tells herself it will be the last, and each time it never is. But when she’s caught and sentenced to thirty hours of community service, the image Morgan has carefully constructed starts to crumble. When she meets Eli, the charming, handsome nephew of the owner of the charity shop where Morgan is volunteering, she’s faced with an impossible decision: continue to conceal the truth or admit that she’s lied to everyone in her life, including the boy she’s falling for.

When Life Gives You Demons by Jennifer Honeybourn
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Sixteen-year-old Shelby Black has spent the past year training to be an exorcist. Her great-uncle Roy—a Catholic priest and Shelby’s guardian—believes she has a gift for expelling demons, and he’s put her through exorcist boot camp hell, but he still doesn’t trust her to do an exorcism on her own. Secrets run in Shelby’s family, though: her mother has been missing ever since an exorcism went horribly wrong, and Uncle Roy is tight-lipped about it. But Shelby’s hell-bent on finding her mom, no matter what—even if what it ends up costing her soul AND a date with Spencer.

The Future Will Be BS-Free by Will McIntosh
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In a Putin-esque near-future America, the gifted and talented high school has just been eliminated, and Sam and his friends have been using their unexpected free time to work on a tiny, undetectable, utterly reliable lie detector. For Theo, it’s about creating a better world. A BS-free world, where no one can lie, and the honest will thrive. Just when they finish the prototype and turn down an offer to sell their brainchild to a huge corporation, Theo is found dead. Greedy companies, corrupt privatized police, and even the president herself will stop at nothing to steal the Truth App.

Copycat by Hannah Jayne
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Everyone is dying to read the latest book in the popular Gap Lake mystery series, and Addison is no exception. As the novels biggest fan, Addison is flattered when the infamously reclusive author, R.J. Rosen, contacts her, granting her inside information others would kill for.
But when the most popular girl in Addison’s high school is murdered, Addison can’t help but think that life may be imitating fiction. And as other terrifying events from the book start happening around her, Addison has to figure out how to write her own ending -and survive the story.

Check out what other books are coming out this month on our Goodreads list!

What book are you most excited to read? Tell us in the comments below!

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