20 best books on forbidden love for young adults – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you ready to embark on a journey filled with passion, drama, and heart-wrenching twists? Look no further than these 20 best books about forbidden love for young adults. From star-crossed lovers to clandestine affairs, these captivating tales will transport you to a world where forbidden desires and societal expectations collide. Whether you’re a hopeless romantic or simply seeking an escape from reality, these forbidden love for young adults books will leave you breathless and yearning for more.


Red, White & Royal Blue

by Casey McQuiston

Are you ready for a rollercoaster ride of emotions? Look no further than Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston, a sizzling forbidden love story that will leave you breathless. This book is the epitome of a whirlwind romance, a tale of star-crossed lovers that will captivate your heart from the very first page.

Set in an alternate reality where a young Prince of Wales falls head over heels for the First Son of the United States, this is not your typical love story. Alex Claremont-Diaz and Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor are thrown together in the most unexpected circumstances, and what starts as a rivalry quickly turns into a passionate and forbidden affair.

This book is a perfect blend of political drama, witty banter, and heartwarming moments. It tackles themes of identity, family expectations, and the complexities of love. McQuiston’s writing is sharp, humorous, and filled with palpable chemistry between the characters. You’ll find yourself rooting for Alex and Henry, hoping against all odds that they can overcome the obstacles that stand in their way.

With its diverse and relatable characters, Red, White & Royal Blue is a book that speaks to the young adult audience. It explores the challenges and joys of coming of age, finding oneself, and navigating the complexities of relationships. It’s a story that celebrates love in all its forms and reminds us that sometimes, we have to fight for what we believe in.

If you’re in the mood for a forbidden love story that will make your heart race and your emotions soar, then Red, White & Royal Blue is the book for you. Get ready for a wild ride that will leave you breathless and begging for more.

The Sun Is Also a Star

by Nicola Yoon

The Sun Is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon is a captivating book about star-crossed lovers, Daniel and Natasha, whose paths cross on a fateful day in New York City. This mesmerizing tale, filled with twists and turns, explores the power of destiny and the complexities of forbidden love for young adults. As these two characters navigate the challenges of their individual lives, they find themselves irresistibly drawn to one another, despite the seemingly insurmountable obstacles standing in their way. Yoon’s masterful storytelling and vivid prose make this book a must-read for anyone seeking a heart-wrenching and thought-provoking tale of love, fate, and the choices we make.

Call Me by Your Name

by André Aciman

Call Me by Your Name is a captivating coming-of-age novel that delves into the complexities of desire, longing, and self-discovery. Set in the sun-soaked Italian countryside during the 1980s, this book paints a vivid picture of a summer romance that transcends societal norms and explores the boundaries of forbidden love for young adults.

Eleanor & Park

by Rainbow Rowell

Eleanor & Park is an enthralling forbidden love for young adults book that will capture your heart from the very first page. Set in the 1980s, this novel tells the story of two misfit teenagers who find solace in each other’s company.

Eleanor, with her wild red hair and eccentric fashion sense, is an outcast in her own home and at school. Park, on the other hand, is a half-Korean boy who tries to blend in and avoid drawing attention to himself. When they first meet on the school bus, their worlds collide in the most unexpected way.

As Eleanor and Park spend more time together, their bond grows stronger, and they discover a deep and unbreakable connection. However, their love is not without its challenges. Eleanor’s tumultuous family life and Park’s fear of standing up to his peers create obstacles that threaten to tear them apart.

This book about forbidden love for young adults beautifully explores the complexities of young love, the power of acceptance, and the strength to overcome adversity. Rowell’s writing is raw, honest, and deeply emotional, making it impossible not to become completely invested in Eleanor and Park’s story.

With its compelling characters, nostalgic setting, and poignant storytelling, Eleanor & Park is a must-read for anyone who appreciates a heartfelt book on forbidden love for young adults. Prepare to be swept away on an unforgettable journey filled with love, hope, and the bittersweet beauty of teenage romance.

The Fault in Our Stars

by John Green

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green is a heart-wrenching book on forbidden love for young adults. It tells the story of Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters, two teenagers who meet at a cancer support group. Despite their illnesses, they embark on a journey of love and adventure, defying the odds and challenging societal expectations. With its poignant storytelling and relatable characters, this book about forbidden love for young adults will leave you breathless and reaching for the tissues. Prepare to be swept away in this tale of forbidden love for young adults, where every moment is a reminder that life is both precious and unpredictable.

Forbidden

by Tabitha Suzuma

Forbidden by Tabitha Suzuma: A Heart-Wrenching Tale of Unconventional Love

Prepare to be captivated by Forbidden, a spellbinding book on forbidden love for young adults that pushes the boundaries of societal norms. With its raw emotion and unflinching portrayal of taboo relationships, this novel delves deep into the complexities of love, desire, and the consequences of following one’s heart.

Forbidden follows the lives of Lochan and Maya, two siblings who find solace and companionship in each other amidst the chaos of their dysfunctional family. As they navigate the challenges of adolescence, their bond grows stronger, blurring the lines between familial love and something much more forbidden.

Tabitha Suzuma masterfully crafts a poignant narrative that explores the psychological and emotional turmoil experienced by Lochan and Maya, as they grapple with their forbidden feelings. With each passing page, readers are drawn into a world where societal expectations clash with the undeniable force of love, leaving them questioning their own notions of right and wrong.

Through her eloquent prose and vivid character development, Suzuma challenges readers to confront their own preconceived notions about love and to consider the complexities of relationships that society deems unacceptable. This book about forbidden love for young adults serves as a powerful reminder that love knows no boundaries, and that the heart wants what it wants, regardless of the consequences.

With its thought-provoking themes and emotionally charged storyline, Forbidden is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the human heart. Prepare to be swept away by this forbidden love for young adults book, as it pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling and challenges readers to question their own beliefs about love and the power of the heart.

Everything, Everything

by Nicola Yoon

Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon is an enchanting tale that delves into the complexities of young love. This captivating book explores the theme of forbidden love for young adults, as it follows the story of Madeline, a teenager who is confined to her home due to a rare illness. Despite her isolation, Madeline’s world changes completely when she meets Olly, the boy next door.

As their friendship blossoms, Madeline and Olly find themselves falling deeply in love, creating an intense and undeniable connection that cannot be ignored. However, their love is deemed forbidden due to Madeline’s fragile health, which presents a constant threat to her well-being. The novel skillfully explores the challenges faced by the protagonists as they navigate the boundaries of their relationship, yearning to be together while facing the harsh realities that stand in their way.

Yoon’s writing effortlessly captures the essence of young love, infusing the story with heartfelt emotions that resonate with readers of all ages. Her vivid descriptions and relatable characters make it impossible not to become fully immersed in Madeline and Olly’s journey. Everything, Everything is a powerful exploration of the depth of love and the lengths one will go to for it, making it an unforgettable book about forbidden love for young adults.

If you are seeking a thought-provoking and heartwarming read, this forbidden love for young adults book is a must-read. Prepare to be captivated by the enchanting world of Madeline and Olly as they navigate the complexities of love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of happiness.

The Night Circus

by Erin Morgenstern

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern is an enchanting tale of passion, magic, and longing. This mesmerizing book weaves a spellbinding story of forbidden love for young adults, drawing readers into a world where the boundaries between reality and illusion blur.

The Wrath and the Dawn

by Renée Ahdieh

The Wrath and the Dawn by Renée Ahdieh is a bewitching tale that unveils a world of passion and danger, centered around the captivating theme of forbidden love for young adults. Set in a sumptuous Persian-inspired fantasy realm, this book weaves a mesmerizing story of love, revenge, and betrayal.

The Raven Boys

by Maggie Stiefvater

The Raven Boys is an enchanting novel that explores the thrilling world of forbidden love for young adults. Set in a small town, the story follows a group of boys who are drawn together by their shared obsession with a local legend. As they embark on a quest to unravel the truth behind the myth, they stumble upon secrets that lead them to a forbidden love that is both captivating and dangerous. With its intriguing plot and captivating characters, this book about forbidden love for young adults is sure to leave readers spellbound.

The Song of Achilles

by Madeline Miller

The Song of Achilles is an enchanting book on forbidden love for young adults that will sweep you off your feet and into the world of ancient Greece. This mesmerizing tale, written by Madeline Miller, tells the story of the legendary hero Achilles and his best friend and lover, Patroclus.

The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight

by Jennifer E. Smith

The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith is a captivating book on forbidden love for young adults that will make your heart race and your emotions soar. Set against the backdrop of a bustling airport, this enchanting story explores the forbidden love that blossoms between two strangers who meet by chance.

The Cruel Prince

by Holly Black

Welcome to the enchanting world of The Cruel Prince, a captivating book on forbidden love for young adults written by the talented Holly Black. Prepare yourself to be immersed in a realm where love knows no boundaries, rules are meant to be broken, and danger lurks at every corner.

A Court of Thorns and Roses

by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas is a captivating book on forbidden love for young adults. This gripping tale revolves around a young woman named Feyre, who finds herself entangled in a world of magic, intrigue, and dangerous romance. Set in a mystical realm, the story follows Feyre as she is forced to navigate the treacherous court of the faerie king, Tamlin.

As Feyre begins to unravel the secrets of the court, she discovers a forbidden love that ignites a passionate flame within her heart. However, their love is plagued by ancient curses and dark forces that threaten to tear them apart. Will Feyre and Tamlin’s love defy the odds, or will they be doomed to a tragic fate?

This book about forbidden love for young adults is a thrilling blend of fantasy, romance, and suspense. With its lush world-building, complex characters, and intense emotional depth, A Court of Thorns and Roses will captivate readers from start to finish.

Get ready to dive into a world of danger, desire, and destiny in this forbidden love for young adults book. Sarah J. Maas weaves a spellbinding tale that will leave readers breathless and yearning for more. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary journey that explores the depths of love and sacrifice.

The Selection

by Kiera Cass

The Selection by Kiera Cass is an enchanting book on forbidden love for young adults that will leave you breathless. Set in a dystopian society, the story revolves around a young girl named America Singer who finds herself thrust into a competition to win the heart of Prince Maxon.

But here’s the catch: America is already in love with someone else. As the pages turn, she must navigate the complexities of her heart, torn between duty and desire, while also facing the pressures of an entire nation watching her every move.

This book about forbidden love for young adults is a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with romance, suspense, and unexpected twists. It delves into themes of sacrifice, identity, and the power of love to overcome societal boundaries.

Prepare to be swept away in a whirlwind of emotions as you immerse yourself in this forbidden love for young adults book. The Selection will leave you eagerly turning the pages, desperate to know what happens next, and ultimately questioning the very nature of love itself.

The Forbidden Wish

by Jessica Khoury

The Forbidden Wish is an enchanting book on forbidden love for young adults that will sweep you off your feet and transport you to a world of magic, mystery, and romance. Set in a lush Arabian-inspired land, this book about forbidden love for young adults follows the captivating story of Zahra, a powerful jinni who has been imprisoned for centuries.

When Aladdin, a thief with a troubled past, stumbles upon Zahra’s lamp, he unwittingly unleashes her from her confinement. Bound by a magical bond, Zahra is compelled to grant Aladdin three wishes. But as Aladdin’s wishes become more ambitious and the pair spends more time together, a forbidden love begins to blossom between them.

Their love is forbidden not only because Zahra is a jinni and Aladdin is human, but also because jinn and humans are forbidden from falling in love. As they navigate the treacherous world of court politics and magical intrigue, Zahra and Aladdin must fight against the forces that seek to keep them apart.

In this forbidden love for young adults book, Jessica Khoury weaves a spellbinding tale filled with lush descriptions, vivid world-building, and complex characters. Zahra is a fierce and independent heroine, torn between her duty as a jinni and her feelings for Aladdin. Aladdin, on the other hand, is a charming and flawed hero, grappling with his past and the choices he must make.

Their love story is filled with twists and turns, as they navigate the dangers of the desert, encounter mythical creatures, and confront their own inner demons. With its captivating narrative and richly drawn setting, The Forbidden Wish is a must-read for fans of fantasy, romance, and forbidden love.

The Summer I Turned Pretty

by Jenny Han

The Summer I Turned Pretty is a captivating forbidden love for young adults book written by Jenny Han. Dive into the world of Belly, a young girl who spends every summer at a beach house with her family and their close family friends, Conrad and Jeremiah. As the years go by, Belly finds herself caught in a web of emotions, torn between the two brothers.

In this book on forbidden love for young adults, the author skillfully explores the complexities of teenage romance, friendship, and the bittersweet journey of growing up. Han’s vivid storytelling transports readers to the sun-soaked beaches, where secrets, heartbreak, and self-discovery lie beneath the surface.

With its relatable characters and beautifully written narrative, this book about forbidden love for young adults will have you rooting for Belly as she navigates the tangled threads of love and loyalty. Prepare to be swept away by the raw emotions and impossible choices that come with forbidden love for young adults.

Whether you’re a fan of forbidden romance or simply looking for a compelling coming-of-age story, this forbidden love for young adults book is sure to leave an indelible mark on your heart.

The Immortal Rules

by Julie Kagawa

The Immortal Rules is a captivating book on forbidden love for young adults that will leave you thirsting for more. Set in a dystopian world where vampires rule and humans are mere prey, this spellbinding tale will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions.

In this forbidden love for young adults book, we follow the journey of Allison Sekemoto, a fierce and independent teenage girl who is forced to make a choice that will change her life forever. When she is offered the chance to become a vampire and escape the horrors of her human existence, Allison must grapple with her own morality and the consequences that come with immortality.

As she navigates this treacherous new world, Allison finds herself drawn to a group of renegade humans who resist the vampire regime. Among them is Zeke, a charismatic and compassionate young man who captures her heart against all odds. Their relationship blossoms in the face of danger, creating a tender and heart-wrenching love story that will leave readers breathless.

With its richly imagined world, complex characters, and gripping plot, The Immortal Rules is a book about forbidden love for young adults that transcends the boundaries of the genre. Julie Kagawa has crafted a tale that explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the power of choice, all while keeping readers on the edge of their seats.

So, if you’re craving a forbidden love for young adults book that will transport you to a world where love and danger collide, look no further than The Immortal Rules. Prepare to be enthralled by this captivating and unforgettable tale.

The Winner’s Curse

by Marie Rutkoski

The Winner’s Curse by Marie Rutkoski is a captivating book on forbidden love for young adults that will leave you breathless. Set in a world of political intrigue and deceit, this spellbinding tale will transport you to a distant land where love knows no boundaries.

In this book about forbidden love for young adults, we meet Kestrel, a skilled strategist and the daughter of a powerful general. As the daughter of a conqueror, she is expected to follow in her father’s footsteps and become a warrior. But Kestrel’s true passion lies in music and the arts, a forbidden love that she keeps hidden.

Everything changes when Kestrel finds herself at an auction and impulsively buys a young slave named Arin. As their paths intertwine, a dangerous game of love and deception begins. Kestrel must navigate the treacherous waters of politics and power, all while trying to protect her forbidden love for Arin.

The chemistry between Kestrel and Arin is palpable, making this forbidden love for young adults book an emotional rollercoaster. Their love is a delicate balance between desire and duty, as they navigate a world that seeks to tear them apart.

With its lush world-building, intricate plot, and complex characters, The Winner’s Curse is a book on forbidden love for young adults that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Rutkoski’s beautiful prose and gripping storytelling will transport you to a world where love is the ultimate prize, but at what cost?

The Book Thief

by Markus Zusak

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak is a captivating and heart-wrenching book on forbidden love for young adults. Set in Nazi Germany during World War II, this novel tells the story of Liesel Meminger, a young girl who discovers the power of words and books in a world consumed by hatred and fear.

Liesel’s journey begins when she is taken in by a foster family, the Hubermanns, after her mother is forced to give her up. It is in this new home that Liesel discovers a forbidden love for the written word, stealing books whenever she can and finding solace in their pages.

As Liesel’s love for books grows, so does her bond with her foster father, Hans Hubermann. Hans, a kind and compassionate man, teaches Liesel to read and becomes a source of comfort and guidance in her life. Their relationship is a beautiful and forbidden love for young adults, as they both find solace and escape in the power of words.

But as the war rages on and the world around them becomes increasingly dangerous, Liesel’s love for books becomes even more forbidden. With book burnings and censorship becoming commonplace, Liesel risks everything to protect the stories she holds dear.

The Book Thief explores themes of love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit. It is a book about forbidden love for young adults that will leave readers both heartbroken and inspired. Zusak’s lyrical prose and unique narrative style, which is narrated by Death himself, adds an extra layer of depth and emotion to the story.

In a world where words are used as weapons, The Book Thief reminds us of the power of language to heal, to connect, and to create hope. It is a forbidden love for young adults book that will stay with you long after you turn the final page.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 books about forbidden love for young adults provide captivating and thought-provoking stories that explore the complexities of love in forbidden circumstances. Whether it’s a forbidden romance between different social classes, races, or even supernatural beings, these books offer a glimpse into the power of love and the challenges it can face in a world that seeks to restrict it. From heart-wrenching tragedies to heartwarming tales of triumph, these books are sure to captivate and inspire readers of all ages. So dive into these forbidden love stories and let yourself be swept away by the irresistible power of love.