Looking for stories that capture the highs and lows of falling in love while figuring out adulthood? These New Adult romance novels deliver all the passion, drama, and self-discovery that come with this transformative stage in life. From college campuses to real-world challenges, here are some of the most popular books that readers can’t stop talking about.
Beautiful Disaster is one of the most iconic New Adult romances. The story follows Abby Abernathy, a good girl with a mysterious past, and Travis Maddox, a tattooed bad boy who loves danger and fighting. Abby is determined to avoid Travis, but a bet between them brings their lives crashing together. As they become friends and then more, Abby is forced to confront her past, while Travis grapples with his own demons. McGuire’s fast-paced writing and intense chemistry between the characters made this book a bestseller, and it’s a must-read for fans of angsty, high-drama romances.
In Easy, Jacqueline faces heartbreak when her boyfriend of three years suddenly dumps her. Struggling to move on, her life takes another turn when she’s saved from an assault by Lucas, a mysterious classmate with secrets of his own. As Jacqueline and Lucas grow closer, she learns more about his tragic past, while trying to rebuild her own life. The novel deals with serious issues like sexual assault and self-worth, but it also offers a deeply moving love story about healing and trust. Webber’s writing is emotional and heartfelt, making Easy a favorite in the New Adult genre.
Avery Morgansten is looking for a fresh start when she heads off to college, hoping to leave behind painful memories. Enter Cam Hamilton, the charming, ridiculously good-looking guy who’s determined to win her over. But as their flirtatious friendship grows into something more, Avery must confront her traumatic past. J. Lynn (the pen name of Jennifer L. Armentrout) does a great job of balancing humor, romance, and emotional depth. Wait for You is a sweet, slow-burn romance with plenty of heart, and Cam is one of those fictional book boyfriends that readers can’t get enough of.
Colleen Hoover is known for her emotionally charged stories, and Slammed is no exception. After the death of her father, Layken moves to a new town and meets her neighbor, Will, a passionate poetry lover. They quickly form a connection, but just when things start heating up, a major plot twist throws everything into chaos. Hoover’s use of slam poetry adds a unique and creative twist to the love story. The novel deals with themes of loss, family, and resilience, all while delivering an intense romance that will keep readers hooked.
If you love college sports romances with plenty of humor and chemistry, The Deal is for you. Hannah Wells is crushing on a guy in her class, but to get his attention, she makes a deal with Garrett Graham, the college hockey star who needs tutoring to stay on the team. Their fake relationship turns real, and soon they’re falling for each other in unexpected ways. Kennedy’s writing is witty, and the banter between Hannah and Garrett is top-notch. With a mix of steamy moments and emotional depth, The Deal became an instant hit among readers.
Another emotional rollercoaster from Colleen Hoover, Confess is the story of Auburn, a young woman trying to rebuild her life after a tragedy, and Owen, an artist with his own dark secrets. When Auburn stumbles into Owen’s art studio, their connection is undeniable, but their pasts threaten to pull them apart. Hoover’s signature twisty plot and heart-wrenching revelations are front and center here. The confessions written by real people, which are woven into the story, add a unique and touching layer to the novel. It’s a love story about forgiveness, redemption, and fighting for what matters most.
Colleen Hoover strikes again with November 9, a novel that tells the story of Fallon and Ben, two strangers who meet on November 9th and spend the day together. After an unforgettable connection, they agree to meet on the same day each year without any contact in between. But as years go by, Fallon starts to wonder if Ben has been hiding something from her. The story’s unique structure keeps readers intrigued, and Hoover expertly balances romance with suspense and emotional intensity. It’s a book that will make you swoon, gasp, and maybe even shed a tear.
Thoughtless takes readers on an emotional journey through a love triangle between Kiera, her boyfriend Denny, and his best friend, Kellan, a hot rock star. When Denny leaves for work, Kiera finds herself drawn to Kellan in ways she never expected. What follows is a rollercoaster of passion, guilt, and difficult choices. Stephens does an incredible job of making readers feel every bit of Kiera’s turmoil. If you love intense, angst-filled romances, Thoughtless is a book that will keep you glued to the pages from start to finish.
Losing It is a hilarious, light-hearted New Adult romance about Bliss Edwards, a college senior who’s tired of being the only virgin among her friends. She decides to take matters into her own hands with a one-night stand, but things get complicated when she panics and bails—only to find out the next day that her almost-hookup is her new professor. What follows is a funny, awkward, and ultimately sweet romance between Bliss and her professor, Garrick. Carmack’s writing is witty and fun, making Losing It a delightful, feel-good read.
Set in the heart of Edinburgh, On Dublin Street follows Jocelyn Butler, a young woman with a painful past who has built walls around her heart. Enter Braden Carmichael, the handsome, confident businessman who is determined to break through Jocelyn’s emotional defenses. Their chemistry is off the charts, and Braden’s pursuit of Jocelyn is as sexy as it is emotional. Samantha Young weaves a romance filled with steamy moments and heartfelt emotions, as both characters grapple with their pasts and learn to love again. It’s a beautifully written story that’s both passionate and touching.
Real is a gritty, intense romance that centers on Remington Tate, a famous underground fighter with a dark past, and Brooke, a physical therapist hired to keep him in top shape. Their connection is instant and electric, but Remy’s emotional struggles make their relationship anything but easy. Evans’ writing brings out the raw passion and intensity of their love, while also exploring mental health and the challenges that come with it. Real is a must-read for fans of alpha-male heroes and strong heroines who can match their strength.
Mariana Zapata is known for her slow-burn romances, and Wait for It is no exception. Diana, a single aunt raising her nephews, isn’t looking for love, but when her quiet, brooding neighbor Dallas starts entering her life in unexpected ways, sparks fly. Zapata takes her time building the romance, allowing readers to savor every moment of the slow buildup between Diana and Dallas. The story is full of heartwarming family moments, witty dialogue, and a realistic portrayal of finding love when you least expect it. It’s a beautifully paced romance that feels natural and deeply satisfying.
The Edge of Never follows Camryn, a 20-year-old woman who’s tired of living a conventional life. On a whim, she hops on a Greyhound bus and sets off on a journey with no particular destination in mind. Along the way, she meets Andrew, a mysterious, free-spirited man with his own secrets. As they travel together, their connection grows deeper, leading to a passionate romance. Redmerski’s writing is both poetic and raw, capturing the sense of adventure and the thrill of falling in love with someone who challenges you to live life to the fullest.
Him is a heartwarming, steamy New Adult sports romance that tells the story of Jamie and Wes, two hockey players who were best friends until a summer camp kiss complicated everything. Years later, they’re reunited and have to face the feelings they’ve been hiding from themselves—and each other. The novel beautifully captures the struggles of coming to terms with one’s sexuality while navigating friendship, love, and sports. Bowen and Kennedy’s writing is filled with humor, heart, and plenty of heat, making Him a standout LGBTQ+ New Adult romance.
In Maybe Someday, Sydney finds herself heartbroken after discovering her boyfriend’s infidelity. Seeking solace, she befriends her neighbor Ridge, a talented musician who’s dealing with his own relationship problems. Together, they begin writing music, and their emotional connection deepens into something more. But with Ridge already in a complicated relationship, their growing feelings lead to heartache and tough choices. Hoover’s trademark emotional intensity is on full display here, and the integration of original songs makes this a unique and memorable romance.
Archer's Voice is a beautifully emotional story about a young woman, Bree, who moves to a small town to escape her past and meets Archer, a reclusive man who doesn't speak. As Bree gets to know Archer, she learns that his silence hides a painful history, and their connection grows deeper. The story is heartwarming and poignant, with themes of healing, acceptance, and unconditional love. Mia Sheridan’s writing is both tender and impactful, making Archer's Voice a fan-favorite in the New Adult genre. It’s a perfect read for those who love a slow-burn romance with a lot of emotional depth.
The Hook Up is set in the world of college football, where star quarterback Drew Baylor falls for Anna Jones, a girl who wants nothing to do with the limelight that comes with dating him. What starts as a casual hookup quickly evolves into something deeper, but Anna’s reluctance to be in the public eye threatens to tear them apart. Kristen Callihan strikes the perfect balance between humor, sizzling chemistry, and heartfelt moments. Drew is the quintessential swoon-worthy hero, and Anna’s emotional journey is relatable. This book is a mix of sexy and sweet that readers can’t get enough of.
This book is a mix of romance, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural. The Law of Moses tells the story of Georgia, a small-town girl who falls in love with Moses, a troubled young man with a tragic past and a unique gift. Their love story is unconventional and full of emotional ups and downs, but it’s also deeply moving. Amy Harmon’s poetic writing style and the complex themes of forgiveness, love, and loss make this a standout in the New Adult genre. It’s a book that will make you think and feel long after you’ve finished it.
Prepare to have your heartstrings pulled in Bright Side, a deeply emotional novel about love, friendship, and living life to the fullest. Kate Sedgwick is full of optimism despite her difficult past, and when she meets Keller Banks in college, their chemistry is undeniable. But Kate is hiding a secret that could change everything. Kim Holden’s writing is both uplifting and heartbreaking, and the relationships in this story—romantic and platonic—are beautifully developed. Bright Side is an emotional rollercoaster that will leave you smiling through the tears.
Rule is a steamy, opposites-attract romance that follows Rule Archer, a tattooed bad boy with a rebellious streak, and Shaw Landon, the good girl who’s had a crush on him for years. Shaw’s patience with Rule’s wild ways is finally wearing thin, but their mutual attraction is undeniable. Jay Crownover’s writing brings out the raw chemistry between the characters while also delving into deeper emotional themes like self-discovery and redemption. The story is as gritty as it is romantic, making Rule a perfect pick for readers who love bad boys with a heart of gold.
This list of 20 New Adult romances has something for everyone—whether you’re into slow-burn love stories, intense emotional journeys, or laugh-out-loud college romances. The characters in these books face real-life challenges, but they also remind us of the beauty of falling in love during one of life’s most transformative phases. Whether you’re new to the genre or a long-time fan, these novels are guaranteed to sweep you off your feet and tug at your heartstrings. Happy reading!