The 11 Best Teen and Young Adult Paranormal and Urban Fantasy Romance Books
Book RaiderAre you the kind of reader who still checks their closet for portals to Narnia? The one who caught themselves using ‘Accio’ for the TV remote once or twice, shamelessly? Yup, we're talking about those hopelessly devoted to fantasy fiction. Welcome, dear muggles and mundanes, werewolves and warlocks. This one's a shout-out to you, the ones with an insatiable fondness for the peculiar, the eerie, the outright bizarre, and a willing suspension of disbelief.
But what if you could couple that with the butterflies-in-your-stomach kind of love? Yes, we're stirring the witches brew with a sprinkle of romance here! Offering a special concoction that transcends the boundary between the normal and paranormal, the urban and the magical. Roll up your sleeves as we take you on an adventure through heart-fluttering romance and spine-chilling mysteries. These are the best teen and young adult paranormal and urban fantasy romance books that are sure to cling to your imagination, keeping you hooked in their fantastical world long after you've turned the last page.
House of Earth and Blood (Crescent City)
by Sarah J. Maas
Why House of Earth and Blood (Crescent City) is on this list: Paranormal? Check. Urban Fantasy? Double Check. Romance? Yes, indeed. House of Earth and Blood fits the bill perfectly. This gripping tale tickled the fancy of many young adults and teens, providing an immersive journey into a world that's anything but ordinary.
In this riveting tale, get ready to dive headfirst into the world of Crescent City. It’s a place where magic and technology intertwine, and half-human, half-fae Bryce Quinlan is about to take on the ride of her life. After a series of tragic events leaves her life in shambles, Bryce joins forces with a fallen angel named Hunt Athalar. Their mission is to uncover the truth, bring justice, and above all, survive the perilous investigation. As the world around them spirals, so does the bond between them. Layered with mystery, suspense and a simmering romance, 'House of Earth and Blood' is a tantalizing cocktail of the paranormal, urban fantasy and romance we are looking for.
What readers like: Readers have been hooked by the enthralling world-building, the intriguing chemistry between Bryce and Hunt, and the way this book nails the ‘gob-smacking plot-twist’ game. They appreciate the fine blend of humor and emotion, too, making it a roller-coaster ride of feels. If you fancy a story that's a bit dark, surprisingly funny, with characters that stick with you long after you've closed the book, then 'House of Earth and Blood' might just become your new favorite.
Check Price at Amazon
Call Down the Hawk (The Dreamer Trilogy)
by Maggie Stiefvater
Why Call Down the Hawk (The Dreamer Trilogy) is on this list: If unique paranormal elements and an urban fantasy setting strike your fancy, and a dash of romance is what you seek, then this book is your cup of tea. It's also suited for teens and young adults without feeling juvenile.
The book tells the tale of Ronan Lynch, a boy who can pull objects from his dreams and his quest to find others like him. It's a world filled with mystery, danger, dream thievery, art forgery, and ancient secrets, with a tantalizing sprinkle of love story to keep the heart palpitations going.
What readers like: Fans love Stiefvater's lyrical writing style, her complex, relatable characters, and the mesmerizing, immersive world she creates. The intriguing premise of dream manipulation is a big hit and the subtle romance subplot manages to provoke emitted sighs, without ever getting too sappy or cheesy.
Check Price at Amazon
The Queen of Nothing (The Folk of the Air)
by Holly Black
Why The Queen of Nothing (The Folk of the Air) is on this list: It offers what the teen and young adult audience seeks: adrenaline-pumping paranormal events, urban fantasy elements and, oh yes, a heart-fluttering dose of romance.
This is the third stunning book in an enchanting series. It explores our heroine's journey as she navigates through High Fae politics and treacherous illusions to reclaim what was stolen from her and restore peace in the Faerie world. Add to that a romantic entanglement with the ever so tricky King of Elfhame, and you've got yourself a bonafide paranormal romantic thriller.
What readers like: Readers love the incredibly painted Faerie world, the raw and complex characters and the roller-coaster romance. Add to the mix Holly Black's spell-binding writing and you've got a book that keeps readers hooked till the end. It’s hard not to root for the heroine as she battles foes with a spark of romance in the air.
Check Price at Amazon
From Blood and Ash
by Jennifer L Armentrout
Why From Blood and Ash is on this list: If you're a fan of both the paranormal and the urban fantasy romance genres, then this jewel is definitely for you. With the perfect mix of the supernatural, swirling urban fantasy, and romance that makes your heart skip a beat, it's a no-brainer for this list.
From Blood and Ash is no ordinary tale of romance. Set in a labyrinthine world ruled by gods and mortals, it follows maiden Poppy, whose life is not her own. She's been chosen from birth to fulfill a role that nobody, especially not her, fully understands. Enter Hawke, a tantalisingly mysterious guard intended to ensure she fulfills her destiny. Together they're plunged into a realm of power, secrets and desire, pushing Poppy to question everything she's ever known.
What readers like: Readers absolutely love the suspense and gripping charm of this book. The unexpected plot twists keep you on your toes while the intriguing chemistry between Poppy and Hawke really heats up the pages. Its unique blend of fast-paced action, steamy romance, and captivating world-building has readers hooked from the very first page. The only hitch is that once you’ve finished, you’ll be counting the minutes until you can get your hands on the next book in the series.
Check Price at Amazon
Muse of Nightmares (Strange The Dreamer)
by Laini Taylor
Why Muse of Nightmares (Strange The Dreamer) is on this list: Love, magic, and paranormal activities mix into the perfect cocktail that is Muse of Nightmares. This book precisely carves a niche for itself in young adult paranormal and urban fantasy romance, making it a must-have stop on your adventure through our list.
In the mysterious city of Weep, dreams, and nightmares are all too real, and if you're not careful, they can possess you. Our protagonist, Lazlo Strange, fell in love in a dream. Now he needs to learn how to balance his romantic life in dreamland with his very real quest to save the city of Weep. Just imagine dreaming of your perfect partner and wake up to find them right next to you - freaky, right? No spoilers, but let's just say there are monsters involved in this love story.
What readers like: Readers have appreciated the vivid and evocative descriptions, the compelling characters, and the beautifully orchestrated twist and turns of the story. They especially loved the complex, startlingly imaginative world that Laini Taylor has constructed. It appeals to both the hopeless romantics, who dream of adventurous love stories, and the more pragmatic detective types, who will appreciate the masterfully balanced plot. So, don’t hesitate to dive into this captivating universe, even if it is just to satisfy your curiosity. After all, what could go wrong in a city named Weep?
Check Price at Amazon
Pestilence (The Four Horsemen)
by Laura Thalassa
Why Pestilence (The Four Horsemen) is on this list: Pestilence fits perfectly into our list because it effortlessly combines the enchantment of paranormal romance with the grit and gratification of urban fantasy. It's also jammed packed with the right amount of drama and sizzle that young adult readers devour like triple-chocolate brownies.
It's the end of the world, and Pestilence, one of the Four Horsemen, is here to wipe out humanity using lethal plague. Meet Sara, our heroine, who would rather not see everyone she knows die a horrible death, thank you very much. So, she tries to kill Pestilence... and fails. Instead of sending her to the other side, Pestilence takes Sara as his captive, kick-starting an apocalypse roadtrip filled with angst, horseman-related existential crises, and an unexpected romance.
What readers like: Readers rave about the captivating characters, divine descriptions, and the unique blend of post-apocalyptic scenery, sweeping romance, and metaphysical ponderings. They admire Sara for her bravery and resilience, and Pestilence for his... well, for whatever it is that makes a plague-bringing immortal totally crush-worthy. Seriously, who knew the apocalypse could be this hot?
Check Price at Amazon
Wicked Saints (Something Dark and Holy)
by Emily A. Duncan
Why Wicked Saints (Something Dark and Holy) is on this list: Teen romance, fantastical elements and spooky elements - what more would one want in a paranormal and urban fantasy book? This is exactly why 'Wicked Saints' has made it to our much-coveted list.
The book takes us on an eerie journey with a cunning prince, a determined girl with magical prowess, and a disillusioned monk. As the borders separating the world of the living and dead blur, they must navigate their way through complex political schemes, dark magic, and unexpected connections. As they say, the path to saving their kingdoms might just be paved with romance and betrayal.
What readers like: Readers are captured by the vividly drawn characters, meticulously planned plot, and a delightful mix of horror, magic, and love. They love the thrilling narrative filled with thought-provoking turns that explore the shades of morality. If eerie monasteries, blood magic, complex faith systems, and forbidden love attract you, then you are in for a roller coaster ride with 'Wicked Saints'.
Check Price at Amazon
Incendiary (Hollow Crown)
by Zoraida Córdova
Why Incendiary (Hollow Crown) is on this list: If you're a fan of teen and young adult paranormal and urban fantasy romance tribulations, 'Incendiary' will be quite your cup of hot chocolate with marshmallows. It's got all the needed ingredients - romance, magic, mystery and tumult of teenage love.
'Incendiary' tells the tale of Renata Convida, a girl with the ability to steal memories. She's caught up in a plot of love, revenge and royal politics in the magical kingdom of Puerto Leones. After her biggest mistake turns her world upside down, she must navigate her way back to who she's meant to be, and find a way to save her people.
What readers like: Readers enjoy the book's unique take on memory manipulation, the in-depth character development, and the molasses-thick tension between the main characters. It's like walking through a dream, filled with palace intrigue, romance, and of course, the supernatural. The enchanting world creation and the vivid, emotional prose are just the cherries on top.
Check Price at Amazon
Playing with Monsters (Playing with Monsters)
by Amelia Hutchins
Why Playing with Monsters (Playing with Monsters) is on this list: Monsters, romance, and urban fantasy? This book practically screams teen and young adult paranormal love story. It is a unique blend of romance, fantasy, action and suspense, an epic illustration of how captivating the genre can be.
Our protagonist, Lena, is no ordinary young woman. She stays mostly human during the day, but when the darkness falls, she becomes a rare supernatural creature - a monster that is very aware of her capacity to destroy. Then comes the ever-charming yet dangerous Lucian who decides to play an enticing, yet hazardous game with her. Throw in a paranormal world, mysterious adversaries, and unknown alliances, and you've got a story that sucks you in and won’t let you go.
What readers like: Readers love how Lena, the lead character, flips the script from damsel in distress to a fierce femme fatale. Her dark, enigmatic persona coupled with the complex relationship she shares with Lucian provides a deep and tantalising chemistry that keeps you flipping the pages. Add to it the well-crafted paranormal elements, a dash of humor, the pulse-pounding suspense - and this book will keep you up past your bedtime.
Check Price at Amazon
The Shadow Prince (Into The Dark)
by Bree Despain
Why The Shadow Prince (Into The Dark) is on this list: This book, by Bree Despain, has all the ingredients to make a teen and young adult book exciting and interesting. It's a mash-up of urban fantasy, paranormal romance and a hint of Greek mythology stirred into the plot.
The Shadow Prince is the thrilling start to the Into The Dark trilogy. The story follows Haden, a disgraced prince from the Underrealm, who is sent to the human world with a mission to retrieve the Boon, a mysterious girl predestined to restore glory to his homeland. But here's the twist—he has to make her love him first. Easy-peasy, right? Not quite, particularly when you're trying to woo a girl whilst living in the modern world with all its chaos and, not to mention, other sarcastic tragedies like cheese-less pizzas.
What readers like: Fans of this book love the unique spin on the classic ‘fish-out-of-water’ and ‘love against all odds’ themes, with a compelling romantic quest peppered with humor and suspense. They also find Haden's struggles with the human world amusing, in a 'Did he really just say that?' kind of way. They greatly appreciated that, unlike some paranormal romances, it doesn't take itself too seriously, adding an element of lightness to an otherwise epic tale.
Check Price at Amazon
Children of Blood and Bone (Legacy of Orïsha)
by Tomi Adeyemi
Why Children of Blood and Bone (Legacy of Orïsha) is on this list: This book hits the sweet spot as far as paranormal, urban fantasy and romance goes. Not only does it have a boatload of magic, but it's set in a unique African-inspired fantasy world that takes 'urban' to a whole new level. And the romantic tension between our protagonists? Off the charts.
Our main gal, Zélie, lives in a world where magic is a thing of the past. But when the opportunity arises to bring magic back and strike against the oppressive monarchy, she grabs it with both hands. Alongside a rogue princess, she must outwit and outrun a crown prince, who's hell-bent on eradicating magic for good. Oh, and in true young adult fashion, they might be falling for each other in the process.
What readers like: Readers dig this book for its non-stop action, rich world-building and strong, relatable characters. The way Tomi incorporates serious social issues into such an exciting narrative is just icing on the cake. Plus, who doesn't love a forbidden romance, especially when it's sprinkled with some magical drama?
Check Price at Amazon
