15+ Enthralling ya wlw Books That’ll Make You Swoon

Recently updated on November 30th, 2024 at 12:43 pm

Searching for ya wlw books? As a lesbian, I love reading books with Sapphic representation. In this post, I’ve compiled the best  Sapphic ya books.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.

So you’re searching for wlw books. But you’re also looking for young adult book recommendations. And you’re not sure which books are worth reading.

 I’ve got you. I’ve compiled the absolute best ya wlw books. 

Whether you’re after ya wlw fantasy books, ya wlw enemies to lovers or ya sapphic contemporary books. I’ve got you covered.

Plus for every book, I’ve included the trigger warnings, representation, positives/negatives and my personal thoughts.

Here are the best ya wlw books.

Best ya wlw books

ya wlw fantasy books

For even more wlw fantasy book recommendations, check out the following posts:

15 Insanely thrilling ya wlw fantasy books  that are impossible to put down

The 11 absolute best LGBTQ+ Fantasy books for adults

1. Cinderella is dead by Kalynn Bayron

This YA Cinderella retelling is a dystopian twist on the classic story. Cinderella is Dead was a massive hit among book lovers on TikTok. And this easy-to-read romantasy is perfect for lovers of YA Fantasy.

The premise is that teen girls must appear at an annual ball where men select wives. But Sophia wants to marry her childhood best friend Erin.

She decides to flee and take down the king once and for all.

The romance is a bit insta-lovey. Normally I prefer a slow-burn romance as I find it more realistic. However,  romance isn’t the focus on the book.

The plot keeps you on the edge of your seat. And the woodland imagery is enchanting. Kalynn Bayron writes the most incredible cottagecore imagery. This book will make you want to live in the forest.

I also LOVE that it’s a standalone. Sometimes, you don’t want to commit to a long fantasy book series.   And having the plot wrapped up in one book is refreshing.

 Standalone ya fantasy books are hard to find. Let alone with wlw representation. If you’re looking for ya wlw books then I highly recommend Cinderella is Dead.

2. Girls of Paper and Fire by Natasha Ngan

When it comes to ya wlw books, you should definitely read Girls of Paper and Fire.

 A dark ya fantasy  featuring magic and a dystopian society. And Asian mythology is woven seamlessly throughout. It includes a wlw romance. 

Girls of Paper and Fire follows Lei. She is a member of the Paper Caste. And the people of Ikhara persecute her.

 She sees the royal guards take her mother. Afterwards, Lei suffers with trauma. But the guards return and try to take Lei. She must learn skills fitting of a King’s Consort. But she falls in love.

The worldbuilding in this book is seriously beautiful. Natasha Ngan was inspired by her own experiences growing up in Malaysia – a country with a mix of cultures. And Ikhara was heavily inspired by this.  The worldbuilding is vivid and beautiful.  It stands apart from other ya fantasy books.

The character development is  excellent. I loved the wlw romance in the book. The grumpy/sunshine trope was executed perfectly. The plot of the book is quite dark but it was handled sensitively.

The pacing did lapse a bit in the middle for me.

But the character development was so good that I still enjoyed reading it. If you’re looking for ya wlw fantasy books then this is definitely worth reading.

3. Crier’s War by Nina Varela

Criers War is an epic wlw ya fantasy book, featuring a dual pov and a war between humans and automate. The book benefits from the dual pov and reading from both perspectives gives you a unique inisght.

We follow Ayla and Lady Crier. A War has ravaged the kingdom of Rabu. The Automae took over the estates of their owners and bent the human race to their will.

Ayla is a human servant rising the ranks at the House of Soverign. She dreams of avenging the death of her family… by killing the Sovereign’s daughter – the beautiful Lady Crier.

Now, Ayla, a human servant rising the ranks at the House of the Sovereign, dreams of avenging the death of her family… by killing the Sovereign’s daughter, Lady Crier. Crier was Made to be beautiful, to be flawless. And to take over the work of her father.

 But that was before her betrothal to the enigmatic Scyre Kinok, before she discovered her father isn’t the benevolent king she once admired, and most importantly, before she met Ayla

The start of the book does feature a chunk of world building. Something typical of fantasy books. But after the initial worldbuilding, the plot is engaging and the writing style is easy to read.

If you’re searching for ya wlw books then you need to read this fantasy romance.

4. This Poison Heart by Kalynn Bayron

Another Kalynn Bayron book, but Kalynn Bayron writes excellent YA fantasy books. This Poison Heart has the edge over Cinderella is Dead for me. This incredible urban fantasy opens in the city before the characters move to a small town. The captivating plant imagery makes this book standout.

We follow Briseis. Thanks to a magic gift, she can grow tiny seeds into rich blooms with a single touch.

Her aunt dies and wills her a dilapidated estate in rural New York. And at this estate, she must uncover her family’s heritage and secrets.

 This is a quick, fast-paced and easy read. You could easily pick this up and binge read it in one setting.

Kalynn Bayron writes plant imagery beautifully. And I  adored the plant and forest imagery.   It balances urban fantasy  with nature perfectly. Something about the nature imagery relaxes you so much. And it makes this book such a cozy read.

My only complaint with this book is that the romance was very insta-lovey. I found it difficult to be invested in the romance as the characters fell for each other so quickly.

I LOVE the supportive same-sex parents int his book. Ya books often feature absent or unsupportive parents. Therefore reading a book with supportive parents  is refreshing. I love reading LGBTQ+ Books with parents supporting their child no matter what.

If you’re after ya wlw books then you HAVE to read this book.

5. We set the dark on fire by Tehlor Kay Mejia

Searching for ya wlw fantasy books? You need to read this book. This urban fantasy book pairs dark academia worldbuilding with one of the best enemies-to-lovers romances.

We follow Daniela Vargas. She lives in a dystopian world where each man is entitled to 2 wives.

A Primera and a Segunda. The Primera is intelligent, calm and analytical. The Segunda is the mother figure.

Outside the wall, the people go hungry. Dani started life outside of the wall. And she must use her wits to survive illegally in the capital.

But she is also married to one of the most powerful men in the kingdom.

The premise was intriguing. Young women trained to become perfect wives. And a resistance group asking Dani to spy for them. It touches on many issues in today’s society, particularly around feminism and marriage.

Fans of The Handmaid’s Tale will love this book setup. It allows for a lot of character growth. And both characters learn to trust each other through the course of the book.

This ya dystopian book features an intriguing premise paired with dark academia worldbuilding and strong-mi A great choice if you’re looking for ya  wlw books.nded main characters. Likewise, it discusses important issues such as forced marriage and immigration politics.

6. Malice by Heather Walter

Are you searching for ya sapphic fantasy books? Then you need to pick up this duology. This is one of the top sapphic fantasy books. Malice is a retelling of Sleeping Beauty told from the villain’s perspective. The dystopian world, morally grey main character and grumpy/sunshine books make this a gripping read.

Malice is a Maleficent retelling. The book is set in a Kingdom called Briar.

 Once upon a time, a wicked fairy cursed a line of princesses to die. Only true love’s kiss can break the curse.

The book follows Alyce – the dark grace.

She was left abandoned in Briar from a dark kingdom. The dark magic that runs in her veins abhors residents in Briar. Except for Princess Aurora.

Not only does Princess Aurora accept her. But she encourages Alyce to accept herself.

This book is almost a cross between Wicked and The Hunger Games. But with fae. The residents of Briar are reminiscent of the residents of the Capitol in the Hunger Games. Beautiful and excessive, they take advantage of the Grace for their own shallow obsessions.

Unfortunately, Misrule doesn’t live up to Malice. But with a range of fantasy mythical creatures, this is still a ya duology worth reading.

7. These Witches Don’t burn by Isabel Sterling

Sapphic witches? Sold!

These Witches Don’t Burn is a lighthearted sapphic fantasy duology set in Salem. With an intriguing mystery and witches, this is a compelling read.

While this is a fantasy duology, the romance and contemporary setting give this a lighthearted ya contemporary feel. Reminiscent of TJ Klune’s work.

These Witches Don’t Burn follows Hannah. She is a witch living in Salem. A dark blood ritual interrupts her end-of-school bonfire. And she investigates with her ex-girlfriend Veronica.

She also meets Morgan. But trying to date in the middle of a supernatural crisis is not easy and will test Hannah’s limits.

This is one of my favourite ya fantasy  duologies. There are seriously not enough ya fantasy duologies. So this is an easy series to binge read and finish.

 It’s not hard hitting. But I’m a simple girl  and sometimes I want a warm, wlw book to read.

 The LGBTQ+ characters are so well incorporated that they are just part of life.  This makes it such a comforting  fantasy book about witches

YA sapphic contemporary books

For even more wlw fantasy book recommendations, check out the following posts:

11 Must-Read Sapphic Contemporary Books To Lose Yourself In

8. The Falling In Love Montage by Ciara Smyth

Searching for a fun summer romance? The Falling in Love Montage is the book for you.

This ya contemporary novel plays on 90s rom-com tropes. The title references the montage of clips showing the main characters fall in love.

We follow Saoirse. She is struggling to cope because her mother is in a home with dementia.

Also, it’s a hereditary condition. One day she might inherit it.

 So she doesn’t see the point in a relationship. Until she meets Ruby at a party.  And they decide to have a relaxed summer fling.

Ciara Smyth previously worked as a mental health trainer. And this comes across in the plot as the book discusses early-onset dementia. It balances romance with mental health issues.

This hilarious romance is full of relatable lines. And it made me laugh so much. A great pick if you’re looking for ya wlw books.

9. The Henna Wars by Adiba Jaigirdar

The Henna Wars is a phenomenal ya contemporary novel with a Muslim,Bangladeshi, lesbian main character. The romance in this novel is adorable. But it also tackles challenging issues such as cultural appropriation.

We follow Nishat.  She comes out to her parents as a lesbian. They’re happy for her to be whoever she wants to be.

As long as she isn’t herself – because Muslim girls aren’t lesbians.

Her life becomes harder when she is reacquainted with a childhood friend – Flavia. Especially when in a school competition they both decide to start their own henna business.

The Henna Wars navigates homophobia, bullying, racism and cultural appropriation. The incredible main character, Nishat, deals with many things thrown at her.

But despite the heavy topics, this ya contemporary remains cute, funny and romantic. An excellent debut novel and ideal if you’re after ya wlw books.

10. I kissed Shara Wheeler by Casey Mcquiston

I Kissed Shara Wheeler is a lighthearted ya wlw book featuring a captivating mystery and a romance. This book is a sapphic version of a John Green novel. With an incredible friendship group and easy-to-read writing, it will keep you turning the pages.

We follow Chloe Green. She attends a Christian high school in the Bible Belt in the USA. The only thing that’s kept her going is winning Valedictorian. And the only thing stopping her is rival Shara Wheeler.

But a month before graduation, Shara Wheeler kisses her and then disappears.

We launch straight into the middle of the action. And it hooks you in almost immediately. The plot moves along well and the fast pace keeps you hooked. Ideal if you enjoy a mystery.

Casey Mcquiston writes the most incredible friendship groups. The banter between the group is hilarious and chaotic.  And they are always diverse. If you like the friendship group in One Last Stop then you’ll also love this.

 If you’re looking for a ya wlw book then you should  check this one out.

11. Not my Problem by Ciara Smyth

Not my Problem is a hilarious yet touching coming-of-age novel. Full of heart and emotion, this book made me cry multiple times. The romance is adorable and the character growth is excellent.

Not My Problem follows Aideen.  Aideen has plenty of problems she can’t fix…

 Her best (and only) friend is pulling away.

Her mother’s drinking problem is a constant concern.

She’s even running out of outlandish diseases to fake so she can skip PE.

But then Aideen stumbles on her nemesis, overachiever Meabh Kowalski, in a full-blown meltdown. She sees a problem that seems easy to solve. Meabh is desperate to escape her crushing pile of extracurriculars. Aideen volunteers to help. By pushing Meabh down the stairs.

Problem? Solved.

Meabh’s sprained ankle is the perfect excuse to ditch her overwhelming schedule.

But then another student learns about their little scheme. And they bring Aideen another “client” in need of her “help”. It kicks of a term of traded favours,  ill-advised hijinks, and an unexpected chance at love.

The concept behind this book allowed for plenty of character development. The main character and side characters are instantly likeable. And the hilarious antics made me laugh. Likewise, the writing style is easy to read.

13.  The Dos and Donuts of Love by Adiba Jaigirdar

Bake off but sapphic. The Dos and Donuts of love is ideal of bake off fans. This heartwarming coming of age balances Sapphic romance with issues of representation in the media. Plus the baking puns are excellent.

Shireen Malik is still reeling from the breakup with her ex-girlfriend, Chris. But then she’s accepted as a contestant on a new televised baking competition show. Herdream come true!

Because winning will not only mean prize money, but it will also bring some much-needed attention to You Drive Me Glazy, her parents’ beloved donut shop.

But Chris is also a contestant on the show. Then there’s the outgoing Niamh. Shireen becomes fast friends with her. Things are heating up between them, and not just in the kitchen.

Love triangles are hit and miss. They can be frustrating and poorly executed. But this was exceptionally well-crafted. The story is well written with a fast-paced plot and an easy to read writing style. The puns made me chuckle and the food descriptions were mouthwatering.

13. Imogen Obviously by Becky Albertalli

This ya sapphic romance balances heartwarming romance with compulsory heterosexuality and biphobia.Imogen Oviously is a deeply personal novel for Becky Albertalli. After writing ‘Simon vs the HomoSapiens agenda’, critics accused Albertalli of profiting from the LGBTQ+ community. Consequently, she was forced to come out.

We follow Imogen Scott. She may be hopelessly heterosexual, but she’s got the World’s Greatest Ally title locked down.

Imogen has never missed a Pride Alliance meeting. And she knows more about queer media discourse than her queer little sister. She even has two queer best friends.  Gretchen, a fellow high school senior, helps keep Imogen’s biases in check. And Lili—newly out and thriving with a cool new squad of queer college friends.

Imogen is thrilled for Lilli and excited to finally visit Lilli on campus. And she’s bringing her ally A game. Any support Lili needs, Imogen’s all in.Like when Lili drops a tiny queer bombshell: she’s told all her college friends that Imogen and Lili used to date. And none of them know that Imogen is a raging hetero—not even Lili’s best friend, Tessa.Of course, the more time Imogen spends with chaotic, freckle-faced Tessa, the more she starts to wonder if her truth was ever all that straight to begin with. 

Albertalli poors her heart out in this book. She discusses biphobia, denial and compulsory heterosexuality. However, the romance is still adorable, light-hearted and well developed. If you’re looking for Sapphic rom com books then I highly recommend this book.

Ya wlw enemies to lovers books

For even more wlw  enemies to lovers book recommendations, check out the following posts:

The Absolute Best WLW enemies to lovers books you need to read

15 Insanely romantic LGBTQ+ Enemies to Lovers Books That You’ll Love

14. She Get’s The Girl by Rachael Lippincott and Alyson Derrick

I was unsure whether to include She Gets the Girl on the list. Set in a college, it feels slightly more adult compared to other books on this list. But it is one of the best wlw book, balancing heartwarming romance with discussions of alcoholism.

We follow Alex and Molly. Alex is a headstrong flirt. She knows how to get the girl. Keeping her on the other hand… not so much.

Molly has everything in control. Except for her complete awkwardness with anyone other than her mum. She’s in love with the impossibly cool Cora Myers. But she just hasn’t talked to her yet.

Alex and Molly don’t belong on the same planet. But when they cross paths, they realize they might have a common interest after all. 

 Because maybe if Alex volunteers to help Molly learn how to get her dream girl to fall for her, she can prove to her ex that she’s not a selfish flirt. That she’s ready for an actual commitment.

The Dual POV works perfect in this book. The authors are a couple and they each write a POV. The chemistry is clear from the first page. And both characters have excellent character development and come to understand each other better through the course of the book.

 15. Her Royal Highness by Rachel Hawkins

Her Royal Highness is an adorable lighthearted romance. This is the perfect holiday read. The romance is adorable and the writing is easy-to-read.

We follow Millie. Her kinda girlfriend kisses someone else. And Millie is heartbroken.  After getting into a super elusive boarding school, she moves to Scotland. And this is where she meets Princess Flora.

Not only does this book include the enemies-to-lovers trope. But it also features the roommate trope, royalty, an ex-girlfriend and a posh boarding school.  All set in stunning Scottish highlands.

Flora is one of my favourite characters – intelligent, funny and sassy AF. It also features an amazing bisexual character.

It did feel a little rushed towards the end of the book. But it’s still a sweet and irresistibly charming read.

You could easily binge-read this in one sitting. A great book to read on holiday or if you’re in a reading slump

16. Hani and Ishu’s Guide to Fake Dating by Adiba Jaigirdar

Fan of the fake dating trope? Hani and Ishu’s Guide to Fake Dating is one of the best examples of the fake dating trope. Plus Adiba Jaigirdar nails the grumpy/sunshine trope.

Hani is bisexual but she is having trouble making her friends to believe her. Ishu wants to be Head Girl.  

They decide to fake date so that Hani’s friends believe she is bisexual. And to help Ishu in her Head girl campaign.

The bisexual representation is incredible. The book explicitly deals with biphobic bullying, a topic not discussed enough in books.

The fake dating trope leads to many funny moments. And both characters learn from each other.

The hilarious writing and the grumpy/sunshine romance led to so many funny moments. It had me laughing out loud so many times.

An adorable read with the perfect grumpy/sunshine romance.

This book will never fail to cheer you up. If you’re after ya wlw books you need to read adorable romance.

 17. She drives me crazy by Kelly Quindlen

Fake dating and enemies to lovers is the best combo! You can’t beat it. She Drives me Crazy is an excellent example of both enemies to lovers and fake dating. This sports romance is the perfect lighthearted romance.

We follow Scottie Zajac. She loses spectacularly to her ex-girlfriend in their first game since their break up.

So she finds herself in a minor car collision with the worst possible person. Her nemesis Irene Abraham.

Irene Abraham is beautiful but also mean. And then their nosey, do-gooder moms get involved. And the girls are forced to carpool together.

And it only gets worse the more time they spend together. But then Scottie discovers an opportunity for revenge on her ex. And she bribes Irene into playing along.

This cute, light-hearted read makes for such escapism. Sometimes you need a cozy, feel-good read. Sound familiar? Well this easy-to-read sports romance is a great choice.

18. Not Your Sidekick by C.B. Lee

Not Your Sidekick is a superhero novel featuring a bisexual Chinese-Vietnamese protagonist, a trans character and a sapphic romance.

We follow Jessica Tran, a bisexual high school student who is resigned to a life without superpowers and decides to start an internship to improve her college applications. However, she quickly discovers it’s for a supervillain with her crush Abby.

Not Your Sidekick gives a refreshing take on a superhero story. The superheroes and supervillains storyline is woven into a contemporary setting. It deconstructs heroes and villains. And what it means to become a villain.

 It takes superhero tropes and gives a refreshing take on a superhero story. I love how the superheroes and supervillians storyline is woven into modern, everyday life.

It also manages to tackle a lot of issues while still staying fun. The book desconstructs heroes and villains. And what it means to become a villain. 

The representation in this book is fantastic.  Jess is an excellent example of a bisexual character. The book discusses bisexuality and bi-erasure incredibly well. An under-discussed topic. I also  her best friend Bells – an excellent example of a transgender character.

This post was all about ya wlw books

Other posts you might like

Historical Sapphic books	wlw books for adults	Spicy wlw books
Sapphic retellings	Sapphic rom com books	Sapphic contemporary books
ya wlw fantasy books	ya lesbian books	wlw enemies to lovers