Sarah Dessen’s Summer Romance Recommendations

Bestselling YA novelist Sarah Dessen knows a thing or two about sweet and sour summer romance. To celebrate the release of her latest book, The Moon and More (out today!), about the maybe-end of a high school relationship, Dessen shares her other picks for romantic beach reads.
Just One Day, by Gayle Forman. I never traveled abroad when I was in college, because I had this whole fear of flying/everything. I wish I had, though, and reading this book was the next best thing. Following the narrator, Allison, as she goes to Europe, meets a gorgeous and intriguing guy, and has adventures made me feel like I at least got to experience it vicariously. I can’t wait for the sequel.
The Fault in Our Stars, by John Green. You wouldn’t think a story about two teenage cancer patients would be so uplifting, but it is. It also made me do the ugly cry, actually sob, but I can’t recommend it enough. If you read it, it will change you.
Moonglass, by Jessi Kirby. This is a story about relationships: between a girl and her dad, her late mom, and the boy who might change everything. Also, it’s set at the beach, which I love in a summer book.
The Tragedy Paper, by Elizabeth Laban. Okay, so this isn’t technically a romance, but it’s a darn good story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. You can’t help pulling for Tim, the narrator, as he finally shares the experience that changed his life at boarding school.
Between the Lines, by Jodi Picoult and Samantha Van Leer. Ever love a character so much you wish you could somehow be with her, in her story? That’s the premise of this novel, co-written by the fabulous Picoult and her teenage daughter.
The Lucy Variations, by Sara Zarr. I can’t wait to read this story about a piano prodigy who loses her love of her art only to find it again through unexpected ways. All of Sara Zarr’s books are amazing, and I’ve been waiting patiently for her latest.
Small Town Sinners, by Melissa Walker. I love some books because the narrator is so much like I was in high school. Others appeal to me more for the fact that the voice is so different from what I know. That’s the case with this story, about a girl growing up in the Evangelical church. It’s like a glimpse into another world, and I loved every minute of it.
Keep Holding On, by Susane Colasanti. Susane always does a great job capturing different aspects of adolescence, as well as the fact that it often takes a certain amount of strength and faith to get through it. This book, which has a focus on bullying, is both poignant and timely.
The Madness Underneath, by Maureen Johnson. You just never know what to expect from Maureen Johnson. All I can say is that this follow-up to her fabulous The Name of the Star had me on the edge of my seat. Again.
The Cadet of Tildor, by Alex Lidell. I’m not a huge fan of medieval or steampunk YA, but no matter: this book—the story of a young girl who attends an elite fighting school, only to find herself facing her biggest fears—had me riveted.
Burn for Burn, by Jenny Han and Siobhan Vivian. I’m a huge fan of both of these authors’ books, and they’re even better together. This story about three girls working together to exact revenge against those who have wronged them is sly and biting.
Perfect Scoundrels, by Ally Carter. I’ve often wished I could crack a safe or pull off a heist. Who hasn’t? Sadly, I don’t see it happening for me. But when I read Ally’s books, I get to go along for the ride from the comfort of my couch, which is the next best thing.