Each year, Cracking the Cover compiles a list of books that make great gifts. The following are young adult books published in and/or reviewed by Jessica in 2025. Scroll down for the complete list or click or tap the following links to directly visit a section. ROMANCE • CONTEMPORARY • FANTASY • MYSTERY/THRILLER • ADVENTURE • DYSTOPIAN • HISTORICAL FICTION
ROMANCE
THE LEAVING ROOM, by Amber McBride, Feiwel & Friends, Oct. 14, 2025, Hardcover, $19.99 (young adult)
Amber McBride’s The Leaving Room is a hopeful YA novel-in-verse about a girl in between life and death.
There’s a reason The Leaving Room is a National Book Award finalist. It’s one of those “Wow” books that constantly has you thinking and rethinking.
There’s so much to The Leaving Room that it’s hard to pinpoint feelings. It’s a book you need to sit with.
Not only is author Amber McBride’s plotline noteworthy, but how it plays out through her thoughtful verse is spectacular. McBride’s pacing, her ebbs and flows, and her feeling sit within a sparse framework that captures the human spirit.
This quiet exploration of the moments between life and death is beautiful. I can’t recommend The Leaving Room enough.
HEARTSTRINGS, Ali Novak, Sourcebooks Fire, Oct. 7, 2025, Paperback, $13.99 (young adult, ages 14 and up)
Though the third book in a series, Heartstrings can be read as a standalone novel. But after reading it, you’ll probably want to go back and read the first two books — The Heartbreakers and Paper Hearts.
The series features the four members of Heartbreakers as they each find love. But though the musicians are the key to tying the books together, the books actually unfold from the female love-interests’ points of view.
In the case of Heartstrings, that’s Indie. Indie’s used to living in her actress sister’s shadow. A classically trained musician, Indie has practically packed her bags for Julliard. But working as Violet’s personal assistant for one afternoon sets things in motion that Indie could never have guessed.
While at its heart, Heartstrings is a romance, there are also themes of family, friendship, and owning your feelings and actions. There’s a lot of growth on Indie’s part, and the book is better for it.
Author Ali Novak does a good job balancing humor with heartfelt, and her depictions of both healthy and ailing relationships is strong. And there’s lots of nerdy banter that will appeal to a niche crowd while not going too deep as to alienate other readers.
Heartstrings is a well-paced read that fits well into Novak’s series. I look forward to reading the final book.
LOVE STORIES (The Taylors Version #1), by Elizabeth Eulberg, Scholastic Inc., Oct. 7, 2025, Paperback, $12.99 (young adult)
Four girls, all named Taylor, make for one unforgettable friendship!
Not all friendships are forever and always . . .
Teffy, Tay, Taylor, and TS have been best friends since middle school. As they enter their high school freshmen era, relationships bring on the drama.
Teffy is crushing on the boy next door who belongs to someone else. Tay finds herself down bad for a tortured poet. Things get treacherous as an older boy starts flirting with Taylor. And TS is definitely focused only on soccer and doesn’t fancy her new teammate, a cute London girl . . . right?
Suddenly, it feels like everything has changed. Pulled in different directions between navigating high school and new relationships, will their friendship be long lived or is it so long, Taylors? —Synopsis provided by Scholastic Inc.
This is a fun novel for Swifties who will appreciate references to the pop star, but even readers who aren’t fans will enjoy this story of friendships, growth and love. It moves quickly, and author Elizabeth Eulberg completely understands the assignment.
WISH YOU WERE HER, by Elle McNicoll, Wednesday Books, Aug. 26, 2025, Hardcover, $24, Paperback, $14 (young adult)
Wish You Were Her is a slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers YA romance with a real You’ve Got Mail vibe.
The story follows Allegra and Jonah as they butt heads on everything from styles of writing to book placement to life in general.
Allegra is kind, sweet and seems to always know what to say. If only people knew she was hiding behind a mask. Jonah is passionate and cranky but universally well thought of by the people in his town.
In truth, the two are quite similar. Both love books and reading, love their families and see the world differently than others. The difference is in how each of them approach being autistic. And those approaches have far-reaching implications as to how the world sees them and how they exist in a world not made for them.
Allegra and Jonah’s relationship feels dynamic and real. And though their feelings change in a short amount of time, things don’t feel rushed.
In making both of her main characters autistic, author Elle McNicoll has opened a dialogue about social expectations and judgements, as well as feeling comfortable in your own skin. These topics are universal in nature, and, in this context, make readers think not only of their own experiences but how they could improve those of everyone.
Wish You Were Her is a fast-moving romance that you could see playing out on the big — or little — screen. Both Allegra and Jonah are characters you want to succeed. You can’t help but root for them.
TAKE A CHANCE ON ME, by Elizabeth Eulberg, Scholastic Inc., March 4, 2025, Paperback, $12.99 (young adult)
A girl who runs to England following a breakup discovers you can’t run from everything in Take a Chance on Me, by Elizabeth Eulberg.
Take a Chance on Me is a romance. But it’s more a study of relationships — Evie with Aiden; Evie with her dad; Evie with her new friends; Evie with her dad’s girlfriend. And truthfully, it’s Evie’s relationship with her dad that really stands out.
In this relationship, author by Elizabeth Eulberg works through a lot — feelings of abandonment, eating disorders, living up to expectations. There’s a lot to unpack and it feels deeply personal. It’s something for readers to consider should any of these topics are triggering.
Take a Chance on Me is a fast (less than 300 pages) standalone novel, that’s sweet with a bit of depth tucked in for good measure.
THE RIVAL, by Emma Lord, Wednesday Books, Jan. 21, 2025, Hardcover, $24, Paperback, $14 (young adult)
There are so many rivals-to-lovers books out there, they feel like copycats. When something is so predictable, there has to be something to set the story apart. And that’s what Emma Lord does with The Rival. Her bright prose and interesting characters make The Rival stand out.
Lord’s pacing is steady, and her passion for writing is mirrored in Sadie and Seb. The duo’s relationship evolves against the backdrop of a college campus. Campus life is highlighted from all the angles — classes, sports, extracurricular activities, and local haunts. And each of these angles comes with great imagery and supporting characters.
The Rival is a sweet, slow burn romance that will excite readers for the future while offering enjoyment in the present.
CONTEMPORARY
ALL THE WAY AROUND THE SUN, by XiXi Tian, Quill Tree Books, Sept. 30, 2025, Hardcover, $19.99 (young adult)
All the Way Around the Sun explores familial bonds, friendship and grief.
The story unfolds from Stella’s first-person point of view alternating between the present and remembering the past. Having been raised by her grandmother, Stella’s never had the same relationship with her parents.
Stella’s bright, but she’s never been smart on the same level as her brother. Now that he’s gone, all her parent’s hope and energy is focused on her alone. But she’s not her brother, and she’s afraid to go to school and suffer the same fate. She feels lost.
Alan is also Chinese. His father is strict. And Alan understands how hard it was to assimilate into the American culture, in part, because of Stella. But that’s also how their friendship fell apart. Now, they’re stuck driving to colleges around California, and they’re going to have to face their past, whether they want to or not.
Author XiXi Tian’s text is fluid and compelling. She gives nothing away, allowing the reader to work through things with Stella. Of particular interest is her study of Chinese diaspora. It speaks to readers on micro and macro levels that resonate. I also appreciated her approach to grief as individuals and within a family unit.
BY INVITATION ONLY, by Alexandra Brown Chang, Margaret K. McElderry Books, Sept. 2, 2025, Hardcover, $19.99 (young adult, ages 14 and up)
A teen hoping to land a scholarship and a nepo baby looking to prove herself collide at the world’s most high-profile debutante ball in By Invitation Only, by Alexandra Brown Chang.
I was not expecting to like By Invitation Only as much as I did. But I did, reading the entire novel in one sitting. I was drawn to author Alexandra Brown Chang’s descriptions of Paris, food and fashion.
And while I know that By Invitation Only is fictional, there are real, high-profile debutant balls — like Le Bal des Débutantes in Paris, which is known for its haute couture, fashion-forward focus and charity work — that By Invitation Only certainly emulates.
The story unfolds from Chapin and Piper’s alternating first-person narratives. Each girl comes with their own set of baggage, literally and figuratively. They both know they’re being used and want to get the most out of it.
Chang’s exploration of both characters is strong, as are supporting characters who add romance, humor and heart to the novel.
Honestly, though, you’re going to want to read By Invitation Only because it’s fun. It’s fun to imagine yourself like Piper, swept off to Paris for the experience of a lifetime. It’s fun to see yourself in the upper echelon of society. It’s fun realizing nothing is ever perfect for anyone.
FANTASY
SUNRISE ON THE REAPING: COLLECTOR’S GIFT EDITION (THE HUNGER GAMES), by Suzanne Collins, Scholastic Press, Nov. 4, 2025, Hardcover, $32.99 (young adult)
This collector’s edition of Sunrise on the Reaping — the fifth book in the Hunger Games series — includes these features: brand new cover art; premium metallic foil cover details; stained edges with stenciled art; full-color endpapers; and exclusive back matter.
When you’ve been set up to lose everything you love, what is there left to fight for?
As the day dawns on the fiftieth annual Hunger Games, fear grips the districts of Panem. This year, in honor of the Quarter Quell, twice as many tributes will be taken from their homes.
Back in District 12, Haymitch Abernathy is trying not to think too hard about his chances. All he cares about is making it through the day and being with the girl he loves.
When Haymitch’s name is called, he can feel all his dreams break. He’s torn from his family and his love, shuttled to the Capitol with the three other District 12 tributes: a young friend who’s nearly a sister to him, a compulsive oddsmaker, and the most stuck-up girl in town. As the Games begin, Haymitch understands he’s been set up to fail. But there’s something in him that wants to fight . . . and have that fight reverberate far beyond the deadly arena. —Synopsis provided by Scholastic Press
This pricey version of Sunrise on the Reaping, which was released in March of this year, is a must-have for diehard fans. It’s beautifully crafted, making it a visual statement piece and a good read.
CATCHING FIRE: ILLUSTRATED EDITION (THE HUNGER GAMES #2), by Suzanne Collins, Nico Delort, Scholastic Press, Oct. 7, 2025, Hardcover, $36.99 (young adult)
With stunning illustrations by Nico Delort, this keepsake edition is a definitive volume for all Hunger Games fans.
Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has won the annual Hunger Games with fellow district tribute Peeta Mellark. Katniss and Peeta should be happy. After all, they have just earned for themselves and their families a life of safety and plenty. But it was a victory won by defiance of the Capitol and their harsh rules, and now there are rumors of rebellion in the districts. Katniss and Peeta, to their horror, are the faces of that rebellion. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge. —Synopsis provided by Scholastic Press
This past summer, I relented and let my 11-year-old read The Hunger Games. She loved the series, and when she saw our illustrated copy of the first book, she devoured it. She loves the detailed illustrations and artst’s interpretations of the characters. The illustrated books are a larger format (approx.. 8”X10”) and they’re exquisitely conceived. These versions are great for ultimate fans or readers who prefer visual cues.
GIRL, GODDESS, QUEEN (DELUXE EDITION), by Bea Fitzgerald, Sourcebooks Fire, Sept. 2, 2025, Paperback, $14.99 (young adult, ages 14 and up)
Girl, Goddess, Queen is a fresh reimaging of the Persephone myth that’s flips the narrative and brings a woman’s value to the forefront.
The story is that of Persephone, who starts out being named Kore (pure, beautiful maiden, little girl) — goddess of the flowers and beauty in nature. And if there’s one good word to describe Kore it’s angry.
Kore is angry.
She’s angry at her father for thinking so little of her. She’s angry her only value seems to be that of wife. She’s angry her mother is marrying her off to the highest bidder. She’s angry that women are subservient. She’s angry she doesn’t have a voice.
So, Kore chooses the underworld.
It’s that decision, and the events following that her character becomes more. She becomes Persephone, a multilayered god not seen in Greek mythology. So, too, does Hades, though his transformation happens a little later.
Author Bea Fitzgerald’s imagining of the underworld is spectacular. She literally builds it in front of your eyes. Other highlights include interactions with human souls and the gods. Even though each being’s interactions are short, you immediately get a sense of personality.
Girl, Goddess, Queen is a page-turner with lots of angst, strong banter and a steamy (though not explicit) romance that will make you want to read more from this author.
WOVEN FROM CLAY, by Jenny Birch, Wednesday Books, Aug. 12, 2025, Hardcover, $21 (young adult)
Woven from Clay is a contemporary fantasy novel from debut author Jenny Birch.
The story follows Terra, a bright, popular girl who loves her community. When Thorne shows up and starts hinting that he knows she’s not who she pretends to be, Terra is confused and frightened.
When Thorne exposes her as a golem doomed to die, Terra doesn’t just sit back and let it happen. She’s not willing to let the lives of everyone she knows get uprooted. She cares about them too much. She’s not willing to go down without a fight.
It’s Terra’s fight and her compassion that carry Woven from Clay forward, giving readers a protagonist worth reading about. And Terra’s relationship with Thorne — their back and forth, their banter — that will appeal to romantics.
EMBRACE THE SERPENT, by Sunya Mara, HarperCollins, Hardcover, $19.99 (young adult)
Embrace the Serpent is a spellbinding standalone fantasy. Fast-paced, it’s full of action and a slow-burn romance that’s full of intrigue.
At the center of the story is Saphira, whose story unfolds through first-person narration. Saphira has spent her life hiding, but her character shines like the jewels she sets so carefully. There’s a nice juxtaposition of how she sees things in the day-to-day and how she narrows her focus when working on a project.
Supporting characters — the king, his huntsman and two people from Saphira’s past are also well constructed.
In Sunya Mara’s deft hands, the story unfolds in an almost cinematic way. Her world-building is strong, especially in the Serpent King’s kingdom. And the elements of jewelsmithing throughout the novel are thoughtful and well placed.
BEST OF ALL WORLDS, by Kenneth Oppel, Scholastic Press, June 3, 2025, Hardcover, $19.99 (young adult)
A boy and his family are forced to live cut off from the rest of the world in Best of All Worlds, a YA novel by Kenneth Oppel.
I struggled at first with Best of All Worlds, but I gave it a second try, and I’m glad I did, because, wow, this suspenseful dystopian read hits hard.
Kenneth Oppel’s writing has an almost quiet feel to it — one with a sense of something lurking just out of sight. His ability to set the tone with just a few words hooks you and keeps you reading.
At the center of the story is Xavier, a teen boy stuck inside a dome with his dad, stepmom and 3-year-old brother. As you can imagine, it’s not the kind of life a teen dreams of. So, when another family arrives; one with a teen girl, you can imagine his interest, even if that means going against his parents.
Best of All Worlds is a thought-provoking read that moves quickly — I read it all in one day.
HEIR OF STORMS (Storm Weaver series, 1), by Lauryn Hamilton Murray, Roaring Brook Press, June 3, 2025, Hardcover, $20.99 (young adult, ages 14 and up)
Heir of Storms is the first book in Lauryn Hamilton Murray’s YA fantasy Storm Weaver trilogy. And if the second two books are anything like the first, they’re sure to be stunners.
Told in first-person, Heir of Storms follows Blaze from the moment she’s marked for greatness through the end of the Choosing. Blaze has spent her life feeling guilty for bringing great rains at her birth — something she had no control over. Now, she’s not only expected to harness that power but to embrace it.
Blaze is a strong protagonist. She’s smart and driven and has a solid support system. In her Hamilton has crafted a character you want to see succeed. Blaze’s growth throughout the novel is convincing, as is that of supporting characters who I hope to see more development from in the following books.
Heir of Storms is an immersive read that you won’t want to put down. There are a number of twists that you won’t see coming, which makes it that much more enjoyable. I am looking forward to the rest of the trilogy.
THE LOST QUEEN, by Aimee Phan, G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers, May 6, 2025, Hardcover, $19.99 (young adult)
Inspired by the Vietnamese legend of the Trung Sisters, warrior queens who rebelled against the Chinese in AD 40, The Lost Queen is an epic fantasy that blends the past and present.
The story follows Jolie, whose sophomore year could hardly get worse. Her best friends have shunned her and her grandfather is ailing. All Jolie wants to do is hide. Then Huong enters the picture. Suddenly, Jolie is popular. And Huong makes her feel seen.
Jolie is a character that faces a lot of growth throughout The Lost Queen. She literally learns who she was and decides who she wants to be. It’s an incredible journey of self-discovery. Next to her, all the other characters, except morally grey Huong, feel fairly one note.
The Lost Queen isn’t necessarily a page turner, but the book fairly sings when author Aimee Phan transports readers through time and place. That’s really where the descriptive magic takes place. Overall, it’s a compelling story that keeps you reading to the end. And the story feels complete, so it will be interesting to see where Phan takes readers in the sequel.
THE NOTORIOUS VIRTUES, by Alwyn Hamilton, Viking Books for Young Readers, April 1, 2025, Hardcover, $22.99 (young adult)
A glamorous media darling and a surprise heiress compete against their cousins in a magical competition for control of their family magic and fortune in The Notorious Virtues.
The Notorious Virtues is a young adult fantasy that starts a little slow, but builds into a page-turner.
Told from multiple points of view, the book mostly focuses on Nora and Lotte and their male “love interests” (for lack of a better explanation). Nora and Lotte are better realized but all four are compelling.
Author Alwyn Hamilton is adept at world-building, creating varied settings that feel grounded. The overall feel is that of the 1930s — both the glitter and grit. Hamilton’s writing is strong and assured.
The Notorious Virtues is a fast-moving read that explores a society and all its complexities — power, privilege, poverty and revolt. It’s an exciting read that ends with a humdinger of a cliffhanger.
ALL THE HIDDEN MONSTERS, by Amie Jordan, Chicken House, March 4, 2025, Hardcover, $19.99 (young adult, ages 14 and up)
All the Hidden Monsters is a murder mystery set in a world of werewolves, warlocks, poltergeists, and other magical creatures.
Author Amie Jordan creates a believable setting where the Upside is the world in which we live, and Downside is sort of a mirrored, hidden world where these supernatural creatures go about their daily lives. Jordan expertly sets the tone. Her magical system is nuanced and enjoyable. Keep in mind, this is a supernatural mystery, so there’s gore and some violence, but it’s appropriate for readers older than 14.
All the Hidden Monsters is the first book in a planned trilogy. I look forward to the next books in the series.
MYSTERY/THRILLER
SISTERS IN THE WIND, by Angeline Boulley, Henry Holt and Co. (BYR), Sept. 2, 2025, Hardcover, $19.99 (young adult, ages 14 and up)
From the instant New York Times bestselling author of Firekeeper’s Daughter and Warrior Girl Unearthed comes a daring new mystery about a foster teen claiming her heritage on her own terms.
Ever since Lucy Smith’s father died five years ago, “home” has been more of an idea than a place. She knows being on the run is better than anything waiting for her as a “ward of the state”. But when the sharp-eyed and kind Mr. Jameson with an interest in her case comes looking for her, Lucy wonders if hiding from her past will ever truly keep her safe.
Five years in the foster system has taught her to be cautious and smart. But she wants to believe Mr. Jameson and his “friend-not-friend”, a tall and fierce-looking woman who say they want to look after her. They also tell Lucy the truth her father hid from her: She is Ojibwe; she has – had – a sister, and more siblings, a grandmother who’d look after her and a home where she would be loved.
But Lucy is being followed. The past has destroyed any chance at safety she had. Will the secrets she’s hiding swallow her whole and take away any hope for the future she always dreamed of?
When the past comes for revenge, it’s fight or flight. —Synopsis provided by Henry Hold and Co.
With seven starred reviews and buzz coming from all over, there are few people who have not heard of Sisters in the Wind. And the buzz isn’t just noise. This page-turner is beautiful, authentic and well worth your time.
THE LOST GIRL OF ASTOR STREET, by Stephanie Morrill, Blink, Aug. 5, 2025, Paperback, $10.99 (young adult)
The Lost Girl of Astor Street is the first book in Stephanie Morrill’s Piper Sail Mysteries.
Set in Chicago during Prohibition, The Lost Girl of Astor Street has a real Agatha Christie vibe while appealing to young adults in particular.
At the center of the story is Piper, a smart, popular daughter of one of the most sought-after defense attorneys in the city. As clever as she is, Piper isn’t without her faults, often getting into scrapes and needing a little backup.
Morrill’s got a knack for scene-building, dropping readers straight into the Jazz Age. Her descriptions of clothes, food and music are spot on.
The Lost Girl of Astor Street offers up lots of twists with some humorous asides here and there. Piper is a vibrant character that carries the novel, but Morrill’s supporting characters are strong, as well.
CODEBREAKER, by Jay Martel, Wednesday Books, July 22, 2025, Hardcover, $24, Paperback, $13 (young adult)
Codebreaker is an interactive thriller that has a National Treasure feel to it.
At the center of the story is Mia, a smart young woman whose been breaking codes her father sets for her since she was a child. She’s driven by a need to make sense of her father’s deception. She’s smart and strong and exactly the character you’d want at the center of an action-packed mystery.
One of the selling points of Codebreaker is its interactive nature. If you want, you can read the book straight through and enjoy it for what it is. If you want to go a bit deeper, author Jay Martel has provided all the clues for you to solve the puzzles as you read. There’s a marker that lets you know you’ve got all the information you need and to solve the clues before reading on. This helps readers become more invested, but the book is exciting with or without this element.
Codebreaker plays out almost cinematically, taking readers through American history while solving clues using ciphers from around the world. There’s action and romance balanced with quieter moments, making Codebreaker an exciting ride from beginning to end. I look forward to reading more from Martel (which is actually the husband and wife writing team Andy Bennett and Katy Helbacka) and hope there are more books in this world are in the works.
ADVENTURE
THE ASSASSIN’S GUIDE TO BABYSITTING, by Natalie C. Parker, Candlewick, Jan. 7, 2025, Hardcover, $19.99 (young adult, ages 14 and up)
A teen with a special talent must go into hiding after hunters attack during a babysitting job in The Assassin’s Guide to Babysitting, by Natalie C. Parker.
Tru is the kind of main character that makes you care from the start. Her personality is bright with a bit of sarcasm mixed in for good measure. And with her telling the story, it becomes a page-turner. In fact, for me, The Assassin’s Guide to Babysitting was a one-sitting joy ride. It left me wanting more from this world, and with just a few words at the end, Parker has left room for what could be an exciting series.
DYSTOPIAN
SOULMATCH, by Rebecca Danzenbaker, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, July 29, 2025, Hardcover, $19.99 (young adult)
Discover a world where past lives determine your future in Soulmatch, a young adult speculative romance by Rebecca Danzenbaker.
At the center of the story is Sivon, a young woman who, like all young adults coming of age, is anxious to find out who they really are. Because who they really are is a soul that returns time and time again. And when the soul is matched with a young person, their life is decided.
It’s a compelling premise rife with the sort successes and problems you’d expect. Author Rebecca Danzenbaker’s world-building is excellent, taking readers to a world that’s familiar but not. And she does a great job capturing the hope, dreams, anxiety and fears leading up to being matched.
Soulmatch moves quickly and is contained to a standalone novel. Although there is room in the world for more adventures. It’s a book that gets you thinking. A perfect read for the end of the summer break.
BOUND BY STARS, by E.L. Starling, Entangled: Teen, July 1, 2025, Paperback, $14.99 (young adult, ages 14 and up)
Bound by Stars is an ode to the ocean liner Titanic — tragedy and all.
Only this time the voyage isn’t across the Atlantic. This time it’s to Mars. And it starts with entrances for the Elysians (Mars residents) and Earthers. A nice touch is that the Boundless is part of the White Star Line, which is also the name of the British shipping line that owned the Titanic. You’ll find little Easter eggs like this throughout Bound by Stars.
Bound by Stars is told from the alternating first-person viewpoints of Weslie and Jupiter. In this way, readers get to know each one intimately, heightening their relationship and the obstacles in their way. Author E. L. Starling captures both with confidence, although Weslie takes a more starring role. A cast of supporting characters, including Weslie’s robot ISLA and other teens on the ship, help move the story forward and make the story feel intimate and expansive at the same time.
Bound by Stars is a fast-moving page-turner. I was hooked from beginning to end. And while the book does stand alone, it very much feels like there’s something more waiting to be told. I certainly hope so.
ALL BETTER NOW, by Neal Shusterman, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, Feb. 4, 2025, Hardcover, $21.99 (young adult, ages 14 and up)
All Better Now has an interesting premise — a virus that removes negativity and promotes selflessness, if you survive…
Reading about “the next big pandemic” could be a bit triggering for readers. Some of it made my anxiety spike a little, and the parallels to COVID19 are just hard to stomach. However, the idea is compelling and author Neal Shusterman does an excellent job exploring it.
At just over 500 pages, All Better Now does feel a bit too long. But Shusterman has created a cast of seemingly disparate characters that you do want to learn about.
HISTORICAL FICTION
THE EXPANDED RUTA SEPETYS COLLECTION (5-BOOK PAPERBACK BOXED SET), by Ruta Sepetys, Philomel Books, Aug. 5, 2025, Paperback, $67.95 (young adult)
Discover #1 New York Times bestselling author Ruta Sepetys from the beginning. This beautiful collection includes paperback editions of her award-winning, critically acclaimed body of work, including Between Shades of Gray, Out of the Easy, Salt to the Sea, The Fountains of Silence, and I Must Betray You. —Synopsis provided by Philomel Books
Ruta Sepetys is the queen of YA historical fiction. Everything she publishes immediately becomes a best-seller. And there’s a reason for that. She transports you with lush details. You care about her characters. Her books are transformative. This set is the perfect gift for fans of historical fiction and social causes. All of the books are fantastic.
THE GREAT MISFORTUNE OF STELLA SEDGWICK, by S. Isabelle, Storytide, July 8, 2025, Hardcover, $19.99 (young adult)
The Great Misfortune of Stella Sedgwick is the type of book that will appeal to teens as well as adult fans of historical romance/fiction. Set in the Victorian Era, it features a sharp-tongued protagonist that isn’t willing to accept the status quo.
Stella is strong and smart — two things genteel women should not be. While she excels at writing, her embroidery and piano skills are lacking. A black woman, society says she should be a maid, out of sight, out of mind. And yet, there she is, an heiress-to-be in need of a husband, thrust into society and carving her own path.
Author S. Isabelle’s approach is full of wit and humor. She takes prejudices head on and turns them sideways. Her bright test moves quickly and her main character shines. And an eclectic supporting cast fills in all the gaps.
REBELLION 1776, by Laurie Halse Anderson, Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy Books, April 1, 2025, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 10 and up)
A girl struggles to survive amid a smallpox epidemic, the public’s fear of inoculation and the Revolutionary War in Rebellion 1776, by Laurie Halse Anderson.
Told from Elsbeth’s point of view, readers get a glimpse at societal roles — both class and women, early American politics, an epidemic and the ensuing mass vaccination.
Elsbeth is a force to be reckoned with. She’s got street smarts and she’s bold. She is the kind of character that readers will want to see succeed. Elsbeth is surrounded by strong supporting characters who help buoy the story and provide some of the strongest moments of emotional impact.
Anderson truly brings 1776 Boston to life. She has a knack for setting a scene and really draws you in with her assured and accessible writing. Rebellion 1776 is historical fiction at its best. This book belongs in classroom and home libraries alike.
UNDER THE SAME STARS, by Libba Bray, Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR), Feb. 4, 2025, Hardcover, $24.99 (young adult)
Under the Same Stars is a timely novel that calls to mind behaviors that are becoming commonplace in America.
Both heartbreaking and hopeful, Under the Same Stars takes readers to three major points in time — 1940s Germany, 1980s Germany and 2020 New York. Though I connected with two timelines better than the third, each one is well-developed and serves the story as a whole.
Author Libba Bray is an expert storyteller. Her writing is a smooth as ever. She drops clues throughout, but keeps readers guessing almost to the end.
THE QUEEN’S SPADE, by Sarah Raughley, HarperCollins, Jan. 14, 2025, Hardcover, $19.99 (young adult, ages 14 and up)
The Queen’s Spade is a historical thriller inspired by the true story of Sarah Forbes Bonetta (aka Sally), Queen Victoria’s African goddaughter. In the book, author Sarah Raughley imagines a Sally out for revenge — a Sally who will stop at nothing to make a number of high-ranking British men and women pay for the wrongs they committed. It’s an idea that’s plausible and plays out with all the tension and intrigue you’d expect from a thriller.
The book is superbly written. It’s a gripping tale that’s part character study, part suspense, and somehow Raughley is able to fit it all into a real timeline of events and people. The Queen’s Spade will appeal to older YA readers as well as adults.
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