It doesn’t matter what kind of reader you are, there is a love story out there for you! You might turn your nose up at romantic fiction, but treasure the stories where friendship is the most important relationship. I love seeing how we can meaningfully connect with people in our lives in different ways. (We show pets that they hold a special place in our heart with head scratches and kibble, but it’s unlikely your best friend or significant other would appreciate that.) In order to celebrate the many ways we can love and connect with one another, I made up a list of some of my favorite books about love in its many different forms. Did I miss your favorite book? Let me know in the comments!
Romantic Love
Enchantment of Ravens by Margarot Rogerson
Isobel, a skilled painter is commissioned by Rook, a prince of the ruling faeries. Their relationship quickly moves from patron and artist, to jailer and criminal, to hopelessly devoted partners who must challenge the ancient and immortal Fair folk. If you’re looking for an exciting fantasy romance novel, this book hits stores on Sept 26!
Love for Friends
When I Was the Greatest by Jason Reynolds
Ali has always been there for his neighbors Needles and Noodles, treating them almost like brothers he’s never had. In this award-winning book, we see sometimes it’s necessary to dish out tough love in order to help our friends grow.
Love for Family
The Seeds of America trilogy by Laurie Halse Anderson
Even after being sold away from the only home she has ever known, and dropped in the backyard of the American Revolution in New York City, Isabel’s only concern is her sister Ruth. Across battlefields, war prisons, and plantations, Isabel’s love and devotion for her sister is what carries these truly beautiful stories through a tumultuous and ethically drought time in our country’s history.
Love for Pets
The Unexpected Everything by Morgan Matson
Most of us would consider Andie’s job as a dog-walker to be a dream! But it’s only after a series of mishaps and one veterinary emergency that shows Andie that dogs really are a girl’s best friend.
Love for Country
The Imposter Queen trilogy by Sarah Fine
While Elli and Ansa both fight against their destinies, their magic (or lack thereof), and their enemies, everything they do is to keep their people safe.
Love for Yourself
Saints and Misfits by S.K. Ali
Janna struggles with her identity as the only hijabi girl at her public high school, and with her family who always seems to be conspiring against her. After she was attacked by the golden boy of her mosque, she finds it even more difficult to connect with anyone. But through the help of another girl who doesn’t fit in, Janna is able to find closure and a greater sense of who she is.
Many Different Types of Love
Last True Love Story by Brendan Kiely
Hendrix and Corrina don’t have very much in common, besides their loneliness. But after making a promise to his grandfather, Hendrix enlists Corrina in bringing him to the place where he first kissed his wife, before Alzheimer’s completely wipes away his memory of her. On this cross country journey, they discover that the only stories that last are love stories. This exciting YA is a free read on Riveted until Sept 25, so check it out if you haven’t yet!