16 YA Books To Read If You’re A Fan of Colleen Hoover
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I still remember the first time I picked up a Colleen Hoover novel. It was It Ends with Us, and it completely wrecked me—in the best way possible. Her ability to weave raw emotion into every page left me yearning for more. If you've ever found yourself in a similar boat, clutching a Colleen Hoover book close to your chest and wondering what to read next, you're in good company. I've compiled a list of 16 YA books that will fill that Hoover-shaped hole in your heart.
What Else Should I Read If I Like Colleen Hoover?
Ah, the million-dollar question! After devouring Colleen's entire bibliography, I was desperate for more stories that made me feel that deeply. Here's what I found:
1. All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven
This book is like a punch to the gut—in a good way. It tackles heavy topics like mental health and grief, much like Colleen's work. The story follows Violet Markey and Theodore Finch, two teens who meet on the ledge of their school's bell tower, both contemplating the unthinkable.
I remember reading this book on a rainy Saturday afternoon. By the time I closed it, I was surrounded by a sea of tissues. The way Niven portrays the fragility of life and the importance of human connection is nothing short of breathtaking. If you appreciate the emotional depth in Colleen's novels, All the Bright Places will resonate with you on a profound level.
2. Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell
Set against the backdrop of 1986 Omaha, this is a tender story of first love between two misfit teens. Eleanor is the new girl with wild red hair and an eclectic wardrobe. Park is the quiet, music-loving boy who offers her a seat on the bus.
Their relationship unfolds slowly, each mixtape and comic book exchange bringing them closer. I was transported back to my own awkward teenage years, remembering the butterflies and the uncertainty. Rowell captures the innocence and intensity of first love in a way that's both nostalgic and heart-wrenching.
3. If I Stay by Gayle Forman
Imagine being stuck between life and death, watching your loved ones grapple with the possibility of losing you. Mia, a 17-year-old cellist, faces this unimaginable scenario after a tragic car accident wipes out her family.
I read this book in one sitting, unable to tear myself away from Mia's journey. Forman's exploration of love, family, and the difficult choices we make is deeply moving. Much like Colleen's stories, it makes you ponder what's truly important in life.
4. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
I know, I know—everyone and their mother has read this book. But there's a reason for that. The love story between Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters, two teens battling cancer, is both heartwarming and heartbreaking.
Green's witty dialogue and philosophical musings make this more than just a tear-jerker. It delves into themes of mortality, love, and the search for meaning. When I finished it, I sat in silence for a long time, contemplating the fragility and beauty of life.
5. Wolves of Betrayal: My Werewolf Ex-husband's Regret by Eva Nash
6. Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon
Imagine being allergic to the world and then falling in love with the boy next door. Madeline Whittier has spent her entire life inside her house due to a rare disease. When Olly moves in next door, her carefully controlled life is turned upside down.
This book made me appreciate the simple joys we often take for granted. Yoon's creative use of illustrations, emails, and diary entries adds a unique touch. It's a quick read but packs an emotional punch, much like Colleen's storytelling.
7. Ugly Love by Colleen Hoover
Wait, can I include another Colleen Hoover book? Absolutely! If you haven't read Ugly Love, you're missing out. It's a bit steamier than her YA novels but delves deep into complicated relationships and past traumas.
The story of Tate Collins and Miles Archer is a rollercoaster. They agree to a no-strings-attached arrangement, but of course, feelings get involved. The dual timelines provide insight into Miles's past, unraveling the reasons behind his emotional walls. It's intense, passionate, and will leave you breathless.
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8. Five Feet Apart by Rachael Lippincott
Two teens with cystic fibrosis fall in love but have to stay six feet apart to avoid cross-infection. Stella Grant is meticulous and disciplined, while Will Newman is rebellious and tired of hospitals.
Their longing to be together despite the physical distance is both heartbreaking and beautiful. I found myself rooting for them, aching with every near touch. It's a poignant reminder of the things we often take for granted.
9. They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera
The title kind of gives it away, but trust me, the journey is worth it. In a world where people receive a notification on the day they're going to die, Mateo Torrez and Rufus Emeterio find each other through an app called Last Friend.
This book made me reflect on how I would spend my last day. It's a beautiful story about living life to the fullest when you know your time is limited. Silvera's writing is honest and raw, much like Colleen's ability to tap into deep emotions.
10. My Poor Husband is A Billionaire Mafia by Sheila Gates
Ten years after leaving her behind, Remy has returned to the City of Ambition, determined to find the girl he once promised to repay. But his search leads him down a dangerous path, as enemies from his past resurface, seeking revenge and threatening to destroy everything he holds dear.
As Remy delves deeper into the secrets of the City of Ambition, he discovers a web of corruption, greed, and betrayal that stretches far beyond his own family's empire. With the help of his loyal allies and his unmatched combat skills, Remy must navigate a treacherous world of power and deception to uncover the truth and protect those he loves.
In My Poor Husband is A Billionaire Maifa, author Sheila Gates weaves a gripping tale of a man's journey to redemption, filled with heart-stopping action, political intrigue, and complex characters that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
If you're looking for a steamy and intense romance with high stakes, danger, and passion, My Poor Husband is Billionaire Mafia is the perfect choice for you. With a mix of luxury and the criminal underworld, this book offers a thrilling escape that will keep you on the edge of your seat, rooting for the powerful and enigmatic hero as he navigates his way through a world of intrigue, betrayal, and desire.
11. Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
This one's heavier but incredibly powerful. Melinda Sordino starts her freshman year as an outcast after calling the cops on a summer party. She's hiding a traumatic secret that has silenced her.
Anderson's portrayal of trauma and the struggle to find one's voice is haunting. It's a must-read for its honest depiction of difficult subjects. I found myself deeply moved by Melinda's journey toward healing.
12. Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
Okay, this is technically adult fiction, but if you enjoy Colleen Hoover's complex characters, you'll love Eleanor. She's socially awkward, sticks to routines, and believes she's fine—until an unexpected friendship forces her to confront her past.
This book is a beautiful blend of humor and heartbreak. I laughed out loud at Eleanor's blunt observations and cried as her layers were peeled back. It's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
13. To All the Boys I've Loved Before by Jenny Han
Need something a bit lighter? This charming series will make you reminisce about your own high school crushes. Lara Jean writes secret love letters that are never meant to be sent—until they mysteriously are.
The ensuing chaos is both hilarious and heartwarming. It's a sweet reminder of the innocence of young love. Plus, the family dynamics add depth to the story. I binge-read the entire series in a weekend.
14. Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
Another adult title, but hear me out. It's a witty and heartwarming story about Alex Claremont-Diaz, the First Son of the United States, who falls in love with Prince Henry of Wales.
The banter alone is worth the read. The chemistry between Alex and Henry is electric. It's a refreshing take on romance with a political twist. I found myself grinning like a fool throughout the book.
15. Normal People by Sally Rooney
This book explores the intricacies of a relationship over several years between Marianne and Connell. They navigate the complexities of love, friendship, and social class differences.
Rooney's writing is raw and unfiltered. It doesn't shy away from the messy parts of love and self-discovery. I was drawn into their world, feeling every miscommunication and longing.
16. Paper Towns by John Green
A mystery wrapped in a coming-of-age story. Quentin "Q" Jacobsen has been infatuated with his enigmatic neighbor Margo Roth Spiegelman for years. When she disappears after a night of adventure, Q embarks on a quest to find her.
The journey forces him to confront his idealized image of Margo. It's about obsession, identity, and the realization that people are more complex than the versions we create in our minds. It made me reflect on my own perceptions of others.
What Books Are Like Too Late by Colleen Hoover?
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Too Late is one of Colleen's darker novels, diving into themes of obsession, danger, and twisted love triangles. If that had you on the edge of your seat, biting your nails, here are some similar reads:
Dangerous Girls by Abigail Haas
A suspenseful thriller that will keep you guessing until the end. It's about a group of friends on vacation gone wrong, and the ensuing investigation when one of them is murdered.
I couldn't put this book down. Every character seemed suspect, and the unreliable narration added to the tension. If you enjoy psychological twists and dark themes, this is a must-read.
Verity by Colleen Hoover
Yes, another Colleen book, but Verity is a departure from her usual style. It's a psychological thriller that had me sleeping with the lights on for a week.
Lowen Ashleigh is a struggling writer who accepts a job offer to complete the remaining books in a successful series after the original author, Verity Crawford, is incapacitated. While sorting through Verity's notes, she uncovers a chilling autobiography.
The lines between fiction and reality blur, and I found myself questioning everything. It's dark, twisted, and utterly gripping.
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
This one is not YA, but if you're into dark and twisted narratives, it's a must-read. The story of Nick and Amy Dunne's troubled marriage takes a sinister turn when Amy disappears, and Nick becomes the prime suspect.
The alternating perspectives and unreliable narrators make this a thrilling read. The psychological manipulation and plot twists are masterfully executed.
You by Caroline Kepnes
Ever wondered what's going on inside the mind of a stalker? This chilling novel will give you an unsettling glimpse.
Narrated by Joe Goldberg, a bookstore manager who becomes obsessed with a customer, it's a disturbing exploration of obsession and manipulation. It's not for the faint of heart, but if Too Late intrigued you, You will keep you hooked.
Can a 14-Year-Old Read It Ends with Us?
As someone who's navigated the murky waters of recommending books to younger readers, I'd say proceed with caution. It Ends with Us deals with mature themes like domestic violence and abuse. While it's an important story, it might be intense for a 14-year-old.
When I was that age, I picked up books that were probably beyond my years, and while they broadened my perspective, some content was hard to process emotionally. If you're considering this for a teen, perhaps read it first and have an open dialogue about the themes.
Alternatively, Colleen Hoover's Slammed series might be more suitable. It still tackles serious issues but is generally considered appropriate for younger teens. It delves into loss, love, and the healing power of poetry.
What Is the Spiciest Book to Read?
If you're looking to crank up the heat, there are plenty of options. But remember, "spiciest" can mean different things to different people. For me, a book that combines emotional depth with steamy romance hits the spot.
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
This fantasy series has a slow-burn romance that eventually ignites into something fiery. Feyre, a human huntress, is drawn into the faerie world after killing a wolf. The world-building is incredible, and the characters are complex.
I was captivated by the tension between Feyre and Tamlin, and later, another character who shall remain unnamed to avoid spoilers. The series balances action, romance, and political intrigue.
The Hating Game by Sally Thorne
An enemies-to-lovers story that's equal parts witty and steamy. Lucy Hutton and Joshua Templeman are executive assistants to co-CEOs of a publishing company. They despise each other—or so they think.
The banter between the main characters is electric. I found myself laughing out loud and blushing in equal measure. It's a fun, sexy read that leaves you with a satisfied smile.
Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire
A bad-boy-good-girl romance that sizzles with tension. Abby Abernathy is a good girl with a dark past. Travis Maddox is a campus charmer who fights in underground boxing matches.
Their attraction is undeniable, and the push-pull dynamic keeps you hooked. It's addictive and hard to put down.
But if you're a Colleen Hoover fan, you might want to check out:
Confess by Colleen Hoover
This novel blends art, secrets, and a passionate romance. Auburn Reed stumbles upon an art studio where the artist, Owen Gentry, creates pieces inspired by anonymous confessions.
The chemistry between Auburn and Owen is palpable. The inclusion of real artwork adds a unique layer to the story. It's got that signature Hoover emotional punch along with some spicy moments.
Exploring the Themes: Why These Books Resonate
One of the things I admire about Colleen Hoover is her fearless exploration of complex themes. She doesn't shy away from difficult topics like abuse, grief, and mental health. The books on this list share that courage.
For instance, Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson tackles the aftermath of sexual assault. Melinda's silence is both a shield and a prison. Reading her journey reminded me of the importance of speaking up and the strength it takes to heal.
In They Both Die at the End, Adam Silvera confronts mortality head-on. It forces us to ask ourselves how we would live if we knew our time was limited. It's a sobering thought but also liberating in a way.
The Importance of Representation
Books like Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli offer much-needed representation. Simon is a gay teen navigating the complexities of coming out.
Representation matters. Seeing ourselves reflected in stories validates our experiences and fosters empathy. It's one of the reasons The Sun Is Also a Star resonated with me. It features diverse characters with rich cultural backgrounds, adding depth to the narrative.
Addressing Book Hype
Sometimes, popular books come with high expectations. It's okay if a bestseller doesn't resonate with you. Reading isn't about ticking off boxes; it's about finding what speaks to you.
Take The Fault in Our Stars—while many adore it, some might find it overly sentimental. That's perfectly fine. Your reading journey is yours alone.
Creating a Cozy Reading Space
Enhancing your reading experience can be as simple as creating a cozy nook. I have a favorite armchair by the window, complete with a soft blanket and a cup of tea.
Setting the mood can make diving into a new book even more enjoyable. It's like giving yourself permission to pause and immerse fully.
The Joy of Audiobooks
If you haven't tried audiobooks, I highly recommend them. They bring stories to life in a different way. I've listened to Normal People on audio, and the narrator's delivery added layers to the characters.
Audiobooks are great for multitasking—listening while cooking, commuting, or relaxing.
Supporting Local Bookstores
In our digital age, it's easy to click and buy. But there's something magical about wandering through a local bookstore, discovering hidden gems.
If possible, support your local shops. Many offer recommendations and host author events, fostering a sense of community.
Final Thoughts
Diving into a good book is like embarking on a journey—you never know exactly where it will take you, but the experience is often transformative. Colleen Hoover has a way of making us feel seen, of touching those tender parts of our hearts we didn't even know existed.
I hope this list helps you find your next great read. Whether you're looking for something to make you cry, laugh, or swoon, there's a book here for you.
Remember, the best books are the ones that leave a mark on your soul, that stay with you long after you've closed the cover.
Happy reading, my fellow book lovers. May your next literary adventure be unforgettable.
Feel free to share your thoughts or recommendations. After all, the best part about loving books is sharing them with others.
Bonus: Personal Anecdotes and Reflections
Books have always been my refuge. I recall a time when I was going through a tough phase—work was stressful, and life felt overwhelming. I picked up Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine on a whim. Little did I know that Eleanor's journey would mirror my own feelings of isolation.
Her story reminded me that it's okay not to be okay and that reaching out for help isn't a sign of weakness. It was a catalyst for me to open up to friends and family, and it made a world of difference.
Similarly, All the Bright Places resonated with me on a deeply personal level. Mental health is a topic close to my heart, and seeing it portrayed with such honesty was both comforting and challenging. It inspired me to volunteer at a local youth center, hoping to make a difference in even one person's life.
Why Colleen Hoover Fans Will Love These Books
Colleen Hoover's novels are known for their emotional depth, complex characters, and the ability to tackle difficult subjects with grace. The books on this list share those qualities.
They don't shy away from the messy parts of life. They delve into the intricacies of relationships, the pain of loss, and the joy of love. They make you feel—sometimes to the point of tears—but also leave you with a sense of hope.
Exploring Different Genres
While Colleen's books often fall under contemporary romance, venturing into different genres can be refreshing. Fantasy novels like A Court of Thorns and Roses offer a new world to immerse yourself in, while still providing the emotional stakes and romantic tension you crave.
Thrillers like Verity and Gone Girl add suspense and keep you guessing. They show that love and obsession can sometimes blur, leading to dark and unexpected places.
The Impact of YA Literature
Young Adult literature isn't just for teens. It addresses universal themes that resonate with readers of all ages. The coming-of-age stories, the exploration of identity, and the first experiences with love and loss are things we can all relate to.
These books remind us of who we were and perhaps who we still are deep down. They encourage empathy and understanding, bridging gaps between different life stages.
Creating a Reading Community
One of the joys of reading is sharing the experience with others. I've joined book clubs and online forums where we discuss our favorite reads, theories, and emotional reactions.
If you haven't already, consider starting a book club with friends or joining an online community. It's a wonderful way to deepen your connection to the books and discover new titles you might have overlooked.
Tips for Selecting Your Next Read
- Consider Your Mood: Are you in the mood for something light and fun or deep and thought-provoking?
- Read Excerpts: Many online retailers offer sample chapters. Take advantage of these to see if the writing style appeals to you.
- Check Content Warnings: If certain themes are triggering for you, look up content warnings to ensure a comfortable reading experience.
- Explore Author Interviews: Sometimes, hearing from the author about their inspiration can pique your interest.
- Trust Your Instincts: If a book's synopsis grabs you, give it a try. Some of my favorite books were discovered on a whim.
The Power of Stories
At the end of the day, stories have the power to change us. They offer escape, understanding, and sometimes, a mirror reflecting parts of ourselves we hadn't recognized.
Whether you're a long-time Colleen Hoover fan or new to her work, exploring these books can open doors to new experiences and emotions.
Closing Thoughts
Thank you for joining me on this literary journey. Writing about these books has reminded me of why I fell in love with reading in the first place. I hope you've found something that sparks your interest.
Happy reading, and may your next book leave a lasting imprint on your heart.
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