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Books for fans of ‘Heartstopper’ by Alice Oseman
Like Oseman’s bestselling series, these delightful coming-of-age novels feature queer joy, soft romance, and happily ever afters.
Published on October 19, 2023
Solitaire
Alice Oseman“Solitaire,” Oseman’s 2014 debut, is readers’ first introduction to Nick and Charlie, the beloved protagonists in her “Heartstopper” series. This book focuses on 16-year-old Tori Spring, a curmudgeonly teen who wants little to do with her classmates. The arrival of a new friend and the reappearance of an old one begin to draw her out of her shell, especially as the three try to uncover the identity of a mysterious (and possibly dangerous) prankster at school. Like Oseman’s other titles in this list, this one takes place in the wider Osemanverse but can be read as a standalone novel.
Radio Silence
Alice OsemanWith tenderness and compassion, Oseman delivers a searing YA contemporary that realistically portrays the teenage experience. Frances has only one goal in life: Admission to an elite university. When an online connection with the creator of her favorite podcast leads to a life-changing friendship, she questions everything she thought she knew about laying out and taking the “right” path. The “Hearstopper” creator tackles crucial themes of academic pressure, mental health, sexual identity, and cyber bullying.
I Was Born for This
Alice OsemanOseman masterfully captures the highs and lows of youth, the impact of fan culture, and the dark side of fame in this delightful and enlightening coming-of-age novel. Anyone who’s part of a passionate fandom will find a kindred spirit in Angel, a teen hijabi who lives and breathes for The Ark, a boy band led by Jimmy Kaga-Ricci that’s become a pop sensation. A chance encounter brings the two face-to-face and sets them on a journey of self-exploration. Powerhouse characters you can’t help but love and phenomenal LGBTQ+ representation make this a must-read.
Loveless
Alice OsemanIn theory, Georgia Warr loves love, but in practice, romantic escapades feel all wrong. As Georgia heads off to university — where hookups are on everyone’s mind — her feeling of isolation deepens until a mentor introduces her to the asexual, aromantic identity. “Loveless” is an LGBTQIA+ (emphasis on the “A”) YA story of coming into one’s own and discovering the vast definitions of love and intimacy. A worthy read that gives much-needed representation to the aro-ace experience.
I Wish You All the Best
Mason DeaverNonbinary author Deaver’s debut novel tackles the adversity Ben De Backer faces when they come out as nonbinary to their parents and get thrown out of the house. Ben goes to live with their estranged sister and her husband, and meets a great new friend in Nathan.
Red, White & Royal Blue: A Novel
Casey McQuistonAlex, the First Son of the United States, starts off as frenemies and ends up as lovers with Henry, the Prince of Wales, after faking a friendship to appease their powerful families. This adorable story is pure romantic escapism — with plenty of steam, of course. Like “Heartstopper,” McQuiston’s hit queer romance was adapted to the small screen.
What If It's Us
Becky AlbertalliAlbertalli and Silvera’s sweet meet-cute story is a breezy queer romance that celebrates perfectly imperfect relationships. Arthur and Ben regret not getting each other’s contact info when they meet at the post office. Chance encounters (or is it fate?) and multiple first dates ensue.
If This Gets Out: A Novel
Sophie GonzalesBoy band members Ruben and Zach are at the height of their careers, performing in sold out concerts and breaking hearts across the country. But beneath the shiny veneer of fame and fortune lies the immense pressure of staying closeted to appease management’s demands. A thrilling friends-to-lovers romance, with a twist of forbidden love, plus heart-wrenching depictions of mental health battles, make this a captivating and poignant story.
Felix Ever After
Kacen CallenderBlack, queer, and trans, 17-year-old artist Felix Love is having a complicated summer. Targeted by an anonymous transphobic bully, Felix catfishes his suspected tormentor, but his plan for revenge turns into an adventure of love and self-discovery. With a fantastic and diverse cast, this feel-good novel is wonderfully messy, warm, and full of friendship and love.
Icebreaker
A. L. GraziadeiGraziadei’s YA debut follows Mickey, an elite hockey player destined for the NHL, and his competitive roommate, Jaysen. The two clash as they fight to be recognized as their college team’s top player, and sparks fly in more ways than one. A slow burn enemies-to-lovers romance, with LGBTQ+ representation and a focus on the importance of mental health, make for a sweet and satisfying novel.