Best Fiction on Girls' & Women's Issues Books for Teens & Young Adults of 2025

The Complete Summer I Turned Pretty Trilogy is a New York Times bestselling series that follows Belly's summer love with the Fisher boys, Conrad, and Jeremiah. Belly has always spent her summers with the brothers at Cousins Beach, but as the love triangle between her and the two brothers unfolds, she must choose between them. The boxed set includes The Summer I Turned Pretty, It's Not Summer Without You, and We'll Always Have Summer. Jenny Han's writing style and storytelling make this series an enjoyable and heartwarming read. Overall, this series is a must-read for those who love young adult romance novels.

Girl in Pieces by Kathleen Glasgow is a heart-wrenching story about a seventeen-year-old girl, Charlotte Davis, who has lost more than most people do in a lifetime. She copes with her pain by cutting herself and living on the edge until she hits rock bottom. The novel is a deeply moving portrait of a girl in a world that owes her nothing but has taken so much. Glasgow's writing is raw, visceral, and beautifully written. This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to experience what it's like to survive the unsurvivable.

The Way I Used to Be is a poignant novel that follows the story of Eden, a high school student who goes through a traumatic experience that changes her life forever. The book delves into the deep cuts of trauma and the lasting effects of sexual assault on love, relationships, and life. Told in four parts, the novel showcases Eden's strength as she navigates adolescence, first love, heartbreak, and friendships, all while learning to embrace the power of survival hidden within her heart. This book is a must-read for teens and young adults who have experienced rape and abuse. Amber Smith's honest and searing portrayal of trauma makes this novel unique and an important addition to every collection.

"Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret." by Judy Blume is a timeless classic that explores the struggles of a young girl trying to fit in with her peers while also navigating her own personal relationship with God. Margaret's story is relatable and authentic, as she grapples with issues like puberty, crushes, and finding her own identity. Blume's writing style is conversational and engaging, making it easy for readers to connect with Margaret and her experiences. This book is a must-read for young adults, especially girls, who are looking for a relatable and empowering coming-of-age story."

The Summer I Turned Pretty is a heartwarming and emotional conclusion to Jenny Han's New York Times bestselling trilogy. Belly, who has been in love with two boys with the last name Fisher, has to choose between Jeremiah and Conrad. While Jeremiah is almost certain that Belly is his soulmate, Conrad realizes that he needs to act fast before he loses Belly forever. This book is perfect for teens and young adults who love romance and coming-of-age stories. The inclusion of bonus content, such as Conrad's letters to Belly, adds an extra layer of depth to the characters. Overall, The Summer I Turned Pretty is a must-read for fans of Jenny Han's work and anyone who loves a good love triangle.

The Summer of Broken Rules is a romance novel that follows Meredith Fox as she tries to reconnect with the world after losing her sister. During her family's annual game of assassin at a summer wedding in Martha's Vineyard, Meredith forms an alliance with a cute groomsman, putting both the game and her heart at risk. This BookTok sensation is perfect for fans of Jenny Han and Sarah Dessen, and it's easy to see why. The mix of budding romance, competitive hijinks, and a close-knit circle make for a rose-tinted romance that readers will want to toss into a beach tote for some relaxing, enjoyable fun.

It's Not Summer Without You by Jenny Han is a heartwarming follow-up to The Summer I Turned Pretty. The story follows Belly, who used to count down the days until summer so she could spend it with Conrad and Jeremiah at Cousins Beach. However, this summer everything has changed, leaving Belly wishing it would never come. When Jeremiah calls her saying Conrad has disappeared, Belly knows what she must do to make things right again. The book is a captivating read about love, friendship, and growing up. Han's writing style is engaging, and the characters are well developed. Overall, It's Not Summer Without You is a must-read for teens and young adults who love a good summer romance novel.

The Selection 5-Book Box Set: The Complete Series by Kiera Cass is a gorgeous collection of all five novels in the #1 New York Times bestselling Selection series. The series follows America Singer as she competes for the heart of Prince Maxon, but soon realizes that the life she's always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined. The collection also includes The Heir and The Crown, where Princess Eadlyn becomes the first ever princess to hold a Selection of her own. This box set is perfect for fans of courtly intrigue and glittering royal romance.

The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han is a captivating start to the Summer I Turned Pretty series. Belly measures her life in summers, and one summer, everything changes. She realizes the boys she has known since her first summer, Jeremiah and Conrad, are more than just her brother figures. The book explores themes of summer love, enduring friendship, and dawning awareness of sexuality. The author's writing style is immersive, and the characters are relatable. The book is a perfect summer read and a must-read for teens and young adults who love a good coming-of-age story.

Warrior Girl Unearthed by Angeline Boulley is a thrilling and empowering read that sheds light on the issue of missing Indigenous women. Perry Firekeeper-Birch, the protagonist, embarks on a journey to reclaim her stolen history and solve a high-profile murder investigation while facing old rivalries and sister secrets. The book is a #1 Indies Bestseller, an Amazon Best Book of the Month, and an Indigo Teen Staff Pick of the Month. With five starred reviews, this book is a must-read for teenagers and young adults interested in fiction on girls' and women's issues.