Slow-Burn YA Romance Reads
Slow-burn romance novels are a favorite amongst readers looking for deep, authentic connections between characters. Unlike rom-coms or whirlwind romances, in which the relationship develops quickly, a slow-burn takes its time. A good one can take an entire novel or even multiple books in a series for a genuine romance to blossom.
Beyond being more realistic in nature, slow-burn romances are also delightfully fun to read. Here are several satisfying YA romance novels in which the relationship develops naturally over the course of the story.
Beyond being more realistic in nature, slow-burn romances are also delightfully fun to read. Here are several satisfying YA romance novels in which the relationship develops naturally over the course of the story.
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1
The Wrath & the Dawn
by Renée Ahdieh
After her best friend becomes the latest victim of the king who murders a new wife every night, Shahrzad vows to get revenge. She weds the king, and spends each night keeping him enthralled (and herself alive) by telling him stories. As Shahrzad gets to know the king, she also starts to fall for him and must decide whether to uphold her vow to kill him. This retelling of One Thousand and One Nights is a must-read for slow-burn romance lovers!
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2
Tell Me Three Things
by Julie Buxbaum
Jessie struggles to fit in at her fancy new prep school in Los Angeles and into her new blended family at home. But when she starts receiving mysterious yet helpful messages from someone named SN, things start looking up. As Jessie and SN grow closer through their texts, she debates whether or not they should meet in person. YA readers will love the heartfelt and authentic romance that springs up between the two teens.
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3
Instructions for Dancing
by Nicola Yoon
Because of her unique ability to foresee how every relationship will end, Evie Thomas no longer believes in love. But when she meets a boy named X who enthusiastically says yes to everything, she can’t help but feel drawn to him. This charming novel is about taking risks and not letting fear keep you from living life to the fullest.
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4
Lock and Key
by Sarah Dessen
Ruby is used to relying on herself, so when her mother abandons her and she moves in with her estranged older sister, she is understandably prickly. But as Ruby starts at her new school and meets the cute next-door neighbor named Nate, her iciness begins to thaw. This young adult novel blends a journey of self-discovery with a slow-burn romance sure to make YA readers swoon.
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5
You’ve Found Oliver
by Dustin Thao
After his best friend dies, Oliver spends the next year texting his old number. But when he accidentally calls and someone else picks up, it ignites a heartfelt romance tinged with magical elements. However, the very thing that brings Oliver and Ben together could also tear them apart.
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6
Love on Paper
by Danielle Parker
Macy and Caleb are both children of famous rival romance authors. So, when they get paired up as critique partners at an exclusive writing retreat, each is eager to outshine the other. Over the course of four weeks, Macy and Caleb must learn how to set aside their differences and work together. What starts as a bitter rivalry organically grows into friendship and romance.
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7
Pride and Prejudice
by Jane Austen
While most of Jane Austen’s novels could fit into the “slow-burn” category, Pride and Prejudice is the ultimate will-they-or-won’t-they novel. Teens and YA readers who love classics with humor, heart, and an irresistible romance need to read this novel at least once in their lives.
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8
An Ember in the Ashes
by Sabaa Tahir
When Laia’s brother is arrested for treason, she strikes a deal with a group of rebels: his rescue in exchange for information about the military. To uphold her end of the bargain, Laia joins the military academy, where she meets a soldier named Elias with a rebel’s heart. Their love story unfolds over multiple high-stakes books and is sure to keep slow-burn romance fans enthralled.
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9
Zyla & Kai
by Kristina Forest
Zyla is a cynic about love, and Kai is a hopeless romantic. They gradually fall in love one summer while working together at an amusement park, but their differences drive them apart before too long. So, when they run away together several months later, their family and friends are left scratching their heads. This opposites-attract story is told through a split timeline, which deliberately slows the narrative and gives this story a slow-burn pace that readers will adore.
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