Best New Adult Books December 2024

99 Percent Mine

Darcy Barrett has always lived in the shadow of her twin brother’s perfect best friend, Tom Valeska. Growing up, she harbored a secret crush on Tom, but he was off-limits. Now, years later, Tom reappears in her life to renovate her grandmother’s cottage. As they work side by side, Darcy’s feelings resurface, stronger than ever. But with her brother’s claim on Tom and her own fear of commitment, can Darcy finally admit that Tom might be 99 percent hers? A witty, heartwarming tale of second chances and finding the courage to pursue what you truly want.

Can You Keep a Secret?

Sarah Haywood’s life is a mess. She’s just bombed a job interview and, on the flight home, spills her guts to a handsome stranger during turbulence. It’s mortifying, but she’ll never see him again, right? Wrong. Monday morning, he’s her new CEO. As Sarah navigates office politics and her growing attraction, she wonders: can she keep her secrets? And more importantly, does she want to? A delightful romp through love, work, and the art of being yourself, even when it feels like the world is watching.

Something Blue

Darcy Rhone’s perfect life shatters when she discovers her best friend and fiancé’s betrayal. Fleeing to London, she finds solace with her old friend Ethan. As she navigates heartbreak and self-discovery in a new city, Darcy confronts her flaws and learns valuable lessons about love and friendship. With wit and charm, she rebuilds her life, finding unexpected romance and personal growth along the way. A touching tale of redemption and second chances that will make you laugh, cry, and root for Darcy’s happiness.

Something Borrowed

Rachel’s always been the good girl, playing by the rules and putting others first. But on her thirtieth birthday, fueled by one too many drinks, she finds herself in bed with her best friend’s fiancé, Dex. Torn between guilt and an undeniable connection, Rachel grapples with her feelings and the potential consequences of her actions. As the wedding day approaches, she must confront the truth about love, loyalty, and what it means to follow your heart. Giffin’s debut novel is a witty, heartfelt exploration of friendship, romance, and the messy realities of growing up.

The Lies That Bind

In Emily Giffin’s “The Lies That Bind,” Cecily finds herself at a crossroads after a painful breakup. One fateful night in a New York City bar, she meets Grant, a charismatic stranger who becomes her confidant. As their connection deepens, Cecily’s world is turned upside down by the tragic events of 9/11. Amidst the chaos, she discovers shocking truths about Grant that force her to question everything she thought she knew. Giffin’s poignant exploration of love, loss, and self-discovery in the face of adversity will leave readers breathless and contemplating their own life choices.

Breathless

In “Breathless,” Jennifer Niven weaves a poignant tale of self-discovery and first love. Claudine, reeling from her parents’ divorce, finds solace on a remote island where she meets the enigmatic Jeremiah. As their connection deepens, Claudine grapples with her own identity and desires. Niven’s lyrical prose captures the raw emotions of adolescence, painting a vivid picture of summer romance and the bittersweet journey to adulthood. This tender, introspective novel will resonate with anyone who’s ever felt lost and found themselves in unexpected places.

Nowhere But Here

Ava’s life takes an unexpected turn when she stumbles upon a hidden bookstore in the heart of New York City. Inside, she meets the enigmatic owner, Liam, whose passion for literature ignites something within her. As they bond over dusty tomes and shared stories, Ava finds herself drawn into a world of mystery and romance. But Liam harbors secrets that threaten to unravel their budding connection. With each page turned, Ava must decide if she’s willing to risk her heart for a love that feels both impossible and inevitable.

Blind Kiss

In this poignant tale of missed connections and second chances, Penny and Gavin’s lives intertwine after a single, unforgettable blind kiss. Years later, fate reunites them, stirring up long-buried emotions. As they navigate their complex history and undeniable chemistry, both must confront their fears and decide if they’re brave enough to risk their hearts again. Carlino’s vivid prose and relatable characters make this a touching exploration of love’s timing and the power of following your heart.

Attachments

Eleanor’s world turns upside down when she meets Park on the school bus. Misfit and outcast, she’s drawn to his quiet strength and comic book obsession. As their unlikely friendship blossoms into first love, they navigate the treacherous waters of high school, family drama, and self-discovery. Rowell’s poignant storytelling captures the raw intensity of teenage emotions, painting a vivid picture of 1986 Omaha. This bittersweet romance will tug at your heartstrings and remind you of your own first crush.

Ninth House

Galaxy “Alex” Stern never expected to be offered a full ride to Yale. But when she wakes up in a hospital bed—the sole survivor of a multiple homicide—everything changes. Alex is tasked with monitoring Yale’s secret societies, where the future elite engage in sinister occult practices. As she delves deeper into this shadowy world, Alex uncovers a dark conspiracy that threatens everything she holds dear. Bardugo’s adult debut is a gritty, haunting tale that blends the supernatural with real-world issues, creating a gripping narrative that will keep you up at night.