Swipe up for the hottest YA romance books that have TikTok swooning! From fantasy realms to college campuses, these swoon-worthy reads are taking BookTok by storm.

You know that feeling when you’re scrolling through TikTok at 2 AM and suddenly your FYP is filled with people sobbing over fictional characters? Yeah, welcome to BookTok, the corner of TikTok where books—especially young adult romance—reign supreme. As someone who’s fallen down the BookTok rabbit hole more times than I can count, I’ve watched this community transform from a niche book recommendation space to a publishing powerhouse that can catapult authors to bestseller status overnight.

If you’ve been curious about the romance books that have BookTok in a chokehold, you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about YA romance on BookTok—from the tearjerkers that will have you ugly crying at 3 AM to the fantasy romances that will sweep you off to magical worlds. Whether you’re a BookTok veteran or just dipping your toes into this vibrant community, this article will help you navigate the swoon-worthy world of YA romance books that are trending on TikTok.

The BookTok Phenomenon: How TikTok Revolutionized YA Romance

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: How did a social media platform known for dance trends and comedy skits become one of the most influential forces in publishing? The answer lies in BookTok’s authenticity and emotional impact.

When a reader posts a tearful video after finishing “It Ends with Us” by Colleen Hoover, that raw emotion resonates more powerfully than any professional book review ever could. I still remember watching a TikTok where someone was sobbing uncontrollably over the ending of We Were Liars by E. Lockhart, and I immediately bought the book—only to find myself in the exact same emotional state a few days later.

BookTok has democratized book recommendations. Instead of relying on professional critics or carefully curated bookstore displays, readers are turning to real people who share their unfiltered reactions. According to publishing industry reports, BookTok has been directly responsible for selling more than 20 million books in 2023 alone, with romance and young adult titles leading the charge.

The impact on sales has been so significant that major bookstores like Barnes & Noble now have dedicated “BookTok” sections, and publishers are actively seeking out titles that have “BookTok potential.” For YA romance authors, having your book go viral on BookTok can mean the difference between modest sales and hitting the New York Times Best Seller list.

Most Popular YA Romance Books on BookTok

If you’re new to the BookTok universe, these are the romance titles that have consistently dominated the platform. Each of these books has amassed millions of views and countless emotional reaction videos:

1. “The Love Hypothesis” by Ali Hazelwood

This STEM-themed romance follows Olive Smith, a Ph.D. candidate who finds herself in a fake dating scenario with a grumpy professor. What begins as a quick solution to an awkward situation evolves into something much more genuine. The academic setting, witty banter, and slow-burn romance have made this book a BookTok sensation, especially among readers who appreciate smart, career-driven characters.

What makes this book stand out on BookTok is the perfect blend of humor, steam, and genuine emotional connection between the characters. The fake dating trope is executed flawlessly, and TikTokers can’t stop talking about the famous “lab bench scene” (if you know, you know).

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2. “It Ends with Us” by Colleen Hoover

No discussion of BookTok romance would be complete without mentioning Colleen Hoover. While this book deals with heavier themes than typical YA romance, including domestic abuse, its emotional impact has made it one of the most discussed books on the platform. The story follows Lily Bloom as she navigates a complicated relationship with neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid while also reconciling with her past.

BookTok readers particularly connect with the emotional depth of this novel and how it tackles difficult subjects with sensitivity. The book has sparked important conversations about relationships and has been credited with helping many young readers recognize warning signs in their own lives.

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3. “The Spanish Love Deception” by Elena Armas

Another fake dating romance that took BookTok by storm, this story follows Catalina Martín, who desperately needs a date for her sister’s wedding in Spain. Enter Aaron Blackford, her annoying colleague who volunteers for the role. The enemies-to-lovers progression and the Spanish setting have made this a BookTok favorite.

TikTokers love creating content around the tension-filled moments between Catalina and Aaron, and the book has inspired many to create their own fake dating scenarios for creative videos.

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4. “Better Than the Movies” by Lynn Painter

This contemporary YA romance follows Liz, who enlists the help of her annoying neighbor Wes to catch the attention of her childhood crush. Naturally, as they work together, she begins to see Wes in a new light. What makes this book particularly appealing to the BookTok audience is its references to classic rom-com movies, providing perfect nostalgia fodder for video content.

The book has inspired a trend of TikTokers recreating their favorite rom-com scenes with a BookTok twist, further cementing its place in the platform’s culture.

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5. “We Were Liars” by E. Lockhart

This mysterious, atmospheric novel about a privileged family and a summer that changed everything continues to shock new readers on BookTok. The romance elements are intertwined with a suspenseful plot that has one of the most discussed plot twists in YA literature.

The book has spawned countless reaction videos of readers reaching the climactic revelation, making it a perpetual BookTok favorite for those who enjoy their romance with a side of suspense.

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Book Title	Author	Primary Trope	Why It’s Popular on BookTok
The Love Hypothesis	Ali Hazelwood	Fake Dating	STEM setting, “lab bench scene,” grumpy/sunshine dynamic
It Ends with Us	Colleen Hoover	Emotional Growth	Raw emotional impact, important social themes
The Spanish Love Deception	Elena Armas	Enemies to Lovers	Travel element, workplace tension, cultural aspects
Better Than the Movies	Lynn Painter	Friends to Lovers	Rom-com references, nostalgic feel, relatability
We Were Liars	E. Lockhart	First Love/Mystery	Shocking twist, atmospheric setting, emotional depth

Finding Your Next YA Romance Read on BookTok

One of the best things about BookTok is how easy it makes discovering your next favorite read. Here’s how you can navigate the platform to find YA romance recommendations that match your taste:

Follow the Right Hashtags

Start by following these key hashtags:

• #BookTok (the main gateway)
• #YARomance
• #RomanceBooks
• #BookRecommendations
• #EnemiestoLovers (or other specific tropes you enjoy)

I found some of my favorite books by following trope-specific hashtags like #EnemiestoLovers and #FakeDating. These narrower searches often lead to more targeted recommendations that match your specific reading preferences.

Book Recommendation Creators to Follow

Some BookTok creators have built their entire presence around recommending specific types of romance books. Here are a few accounts worth following if you’re looking for quality YA romance recommendations:

• @bookishbronte – Specializes in YA fantasy romance
• @aymansbooks – Known for diverse YA romance recommendations
• @moongirlreads – Focuses on emotional contemporary YA
• @thecalvinbooks – Great for male perspective on YA romance

When I started following @moongirlreads, my TBR list exploded with contemporaries I’d never heard of before, and almost every recommendation has been a hit!

Utilize BookTok’s Recommendation Format

Many creators use a specific format for recommendations, often starting with “If you liked X, then you’ll love Y.” This comparison-based approach can help you find books similar to ones you’ve already enjoyed.

For example, if you enjoyed The Fault in Our Stars,” BookTok might direct you to “Five Feet Apart” or “All the Bright Places.” These connection-based recommendations have introduced me to authors I might never have discovered otherwise.

Diverse Representation in BookTok YA Romance

One of the most positive impacts of BookTok has been the amplification of diverse voices in YA romance. The platform has helped spotlight books with characters from various backgrounds, sexualities, and experiences.

LGBTQ+ Representation

BookTok has become an important space for discovering and celebrating LGBTQ+ romance. Books like Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston, Boyfriend Material by Alexis Hall, and Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz have found enthusiastic audiences on the platform.

The community has particularly embraced Heartstopper by Alice Oseman, with its graphic novel format providing perfect visual content for TikTok videos. Many readers have shared how finding these books through BookTok helped them feel seen and represented in literature.

Cultural Diversity

BookTok creators have also championed romances featuring characters from diverse cultural backgrounds. Books like Love from A to Z by S.K. Ali, which features Muslim main characters, and With the Fire on High by Elizabeth Acevedo, which features an Afro-Latina protagonist, have gained significant traction on the platform.

I’ve personally discovered so many incredible stories through BookTok that feature characters with backgrounds different from my own. These books have not only entertained me but have also broadened my perspective and understanding of different experiences.

Neurodiversity and Disability Representation

Books featuring neurodiverse characters or characters with disabilities have also found supportive communities on BookTok. “The Kiss Quotient” by Helen Hoang, which features a protagonist with autism, and “A Quiet Kind of Thunder” by Sara Barnard, which includes a character who is selectively mute, have been widely recommended.

These recommendations have opened important conversations about representation and have connected readers who may have previously struggled to find characters like themselves in romance literature.

Fantasy Meets Romance: Magic and Love on BookTok

Fantasy romance is arguably the most visually stunning subgenre on BookTok, with creators using elaborate costumes, special effects, and atmospheric music to capture the magical elements of these stories.

Top Fantasy Romance Series on BookTok

These series have dominated the fantasy romance conversation on BookTok:

1. A Court of Thorns and Roses series by Sarah J. Maas. BookTok has been obsessed with this series, particularly the second book, A Court of Mist and Fury.” The enemies-to-lovers arc between Feyre and Rhysand has inspired countless TikToks, fan art, and even merchandise. The combination of high fantasy, steamy romance, and character growth makes this series perfect BookTok material.
2. The Shadow Game series by Amanda Foody, starting with Ace of Shades,” has captured BookTok’s imagination with its unique setting and complex characters. The romance elements intertwined with the fantasy world have made it a favorite for creative content creators.
3. The Folk of the Air series by Holly Black, The Cruel Prince and its sequels, feature one of BookTok’s favorite tropes: enemies-to-lovers in a fantasy setting. The complicated relationship between Jude and Cardan has been the subject of many dramatic readings and reaction videos.
4. House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin A. Craig This dark fantasy romance with a historical setting has been praised for its atmospheric world-building and haunting love story. The book’s visual elements translate particularly well to TikTok’s short-form video format.

Why Fantasy Romance Works So Well on BookTok

Fantasy romance is particularly suited to BookTok because of the visual and emotional elements these books contain. Creators can use cosplay, dramatic music, and visual effects to capture the magical essence of these stories in ways that aren’t as easy with contemporary romance.

When a creator dresses as Feyre from ACOTAR or creates a POV video from Cardan’s perspective in The Cruel Prince, they’re not just recommending a book—they’re inviting viewers into an immersive experience. This level of engagement has helped fantasy romance become one of the most vibrant categories on BookTok.

Clean and Wholesome YA Romance Books

While BookTok has a reputation for highlighting steamy romances, there’s also a thriving community dedicated to clean and wholesome YA romance. These books focus on emotional connection and sweet romantic moments without explicit content.

Popular Clean Romance on BookTok

1. “100 Days of Sunlight” by Abbie Emmons This touching story about a temporarily blind girl and the boy who helps her experience the world has resonated with readers looking for emotional depth without explicit content. BookTok creators have particularly highlighted the book’s themes of friendship and personal growth.
2. “Tweet Cute” by Emma Lord: This clean contemporary romance about two teens who fall for each other while engaging in a Twitter war has been a BookTok favorite for its clever dialogue and sweet romantic progression.
3. “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny Han. Though this series gained initial popularity through its Netflix adaptation, BookTok has embraced the original novels for their wholesome portrayal of first love and family relationships.
4. “Moment of Truth” by Kasie West Kasie West has become a go-to author for clean YA romance on BookTok, with her books frequently appearing in “clean romance” recommendation videos.

The clean romance community on BookTok often uses hashtags like #CleanRomance, #SweetRomance, and #WholesomeReads to help readers find content that matches their preferences. This has created a supportive space for younger readers or those who simply prefer their romance without explicit scenes.

Creating Your BookTok Content

Inspired to join the BookTok community yourself? Here’s how to create engaging YA romance content that might just go viral:

Finding Your BookTok Niche

The most successful BookTok creators have a clear niche. Consider focusing on:

• A specific subgenre (fantasy romance, historical romance)
• A particular trope (enemies-to-lovers, found family)
• Underrepresented books (diverse authors, translated works)
• Unique reading experiences (emotional reactions, reading vlogs)

I started my BookTok journey by focusing exclusively on YA fantasy romance with strong female leads, and it helped me find my audience much faster than when I was posting about a random mix of books.

Popular BookTok Video Formats

These formats consistently perform well for YA romance content:

1. The Emotional Reaction Film yourself before, during, and after reading an emotional scene. Authentic reactions perform best—don’t be afraid to show real tears!
2. Book Aesthetics: Create visually pleasing arrangements of books with props that match their aesthetic (roses for romance, candles for atmosphere, etc.).
3. Trope Highlight:s Create short videos highlighting specific romantic tropes in books, like “top 5 enemies-to-lovers moments” or “books where the love interest says THIS.”
4. Recommendation Chains Start with a popular book, then recommend three lesser-known books with similar elements.

Technical Tips for Creating BookTok Videos

• Lighting is crucial: Natural light works best, but a ring light is a worthy investment.
• Music selection matters: Choose songs that match the emotional tone of the books you’re featuring.
• Keep it concise: The most successful BookTok videos make their point in 15-30 seconds.
• Use text overlays: Many BookTok viewers watch without sound, so make sure your main points are conveyed through text.

Creating content for BookTok has been one of the most rewarding parts of my reading journey. There’s something special about connecting with other readers who get just as emotional about fictional characters as you do!

The Future of YA Romance on BookTok

As BookTok continues to evolve, several trends are emerging that will shape the future of YA romance on the platform:

Cross-Platform Integration

We’re seeing increasing integration between BookTok and other platforms, with publishers creating dedicated TikTok teams and authors building their presence across multiple social media channels. This cross-platform approach helps books maintain momentum beyond their initial BookTok virality.

Author-Creator Collaborations

Authors are increasingly collaborating directly with BookTok creators, sending advance copies, participating in live discussions, and even co-creating content. This direct connection between authors and the BookTok community is creating new opportunities for engagement.

Some authors, like Ali Hazelwood and Colleen Hoover, have embraced BookTok so thoroughly that they now consider the platform when writing new books, incorporating elements that will translate well to short-form video content.

Evolving Romance Tropes

BookTok has accelerated the evolution of popular romance tropes. While enemies-to-lovers and fake dating remain perennial favorites, we’re seeing increased interest in more specific scenarios like “villain romance,” “morally gray love interests,” and “romantasy” (romance + fantasy).

As readers consume more content more quickly, thanks to BookTok recommendations, authors are responding with increasingly specific and nuanced takes on classic tropes to stand out in a crowded market.

The BookTok-to-Adaptation Pipeline

Perhaps the most significant development is how quickly BookTok hits are being optioned for film and television adaptations. Books that explode on BookTok are now being fast-tracked for adaptation, creating a new pathway to the screen for YA romance.

The success of adaptations like “The Summer I Turned Pretty” has shown that BookTok popularity can translate to streaming success, creating a powerful new route for YA romance stories to reach even wider audiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular YA romance books on BookTok?

The most consistently popular YA romance books on BookTok include The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood, It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover, The Spanish Love Deception by Elena Armas, and the A Court of Thorns and Roses series by Sarah J. Maas. These books regularly appear in recommendation videos and have sparked numerous trends on the platform.

How does BookTok influence YA romance book sales?

BookTok has revolutionized book marketing, with viral TikToks directly translating to sales spikes. According to industry data, books that go viral on BookTok often see a 300-500% increase in sales within weeks. Major retailers like Barnes & Noble now have dedicated “BookTok” sections, and publishers are actively seeking books with “BookTok potential” and even paying creators for promotion.

What are some must-read YA romance novels for beginners?

If you’re new to YA romance on BookTok, start with these widely-recommended titles:

• “The Deal” by Elle Kennedy for college romance
• “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” by Jenny Han for sweet contemporary
• “The Cruel Prince” by Holly Black for fantasy romance
• “Better Than the Movies” by Lynn Painter is for rom-com vibes
• “We Were Liars” by E. Lockhart for romance with a twist

Can I find clean and wholesome YA romance books on BookTok?

Absolutely! Look for the hashtags #CleanRomance, #SweetRomance, or #WholesomeReads. Popular clean romance recommendations on BookTok include 100 Days of Sunlight by Abbie Emmons, Tweet Cute by Emma Lord, and books by authors like Kasie West and Jenny Han.

Are there any YA romance books with diverse characters on BookTok?

Yes, BookTok has become an important platform for promoting diverse YA romance. Popular diverse recommendations include Love from A to Z by S.K. Ali (Muslim representation), You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson (LGBTQ+ and Black representation), and With the Fire on High by Elizabeth Acevedo (Afro-Latina representation).

How do I find new YA romance books to read on BookTok?

Follow hashtags like #BookTok, #YARomance, and #BookRecommendations. Also, look for specific trope hashtags like #EnemiestoLovers or #FakeDating if you have preferred tropes. Following dedicated book recommendation accounts like @aymansbooks, @moongirlreads, and @thecalvinbooks can also help you discover new titles.

What are some highly recommended YA fantasy romance books on BookTok?

Fantasy romance is huge on BookTok. The most recommended titles include the A Court of Thorns and Roses series by Sarah J. Maas, the Shadow Game series by Amanda Foody, the The Folk of the Air series by Holly Black, and the House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin A. Craig.

Can I find YA romance books with strong female leads on BookTok?

Yes! Books with strong female protagonists that are popular on BookTok include “The Love Hypothesis” (featuring a determined PhD candidate), “A Court of Thorns and Roses” (featuring Feyre’s journey from human to powerful High Fae), and “The Spanish Love Deception” (featuring a driven professional woman).

Are there any YA romance books with LGBTQ+ themes on BookTok?

BookTok has embraced LGBTQ+ romance, with popular recommendations including Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston, Heartstopper by Alice Oseman, Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz, and She Drives Me Crazy by Kelly Quindlen.

How do YA romance books on BookTok handle sensitive topics?

Many popular YA romances on BookTok address sensitive issues like mental health, abuse, and trauma. Content warnings are a common and valued practice in the BookTok community, with creators often providing them in their recommendation videos. Books like It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover have been praised for their sensitive handling of difficult topics.

What are some trending YA romance books on TikTok?

Current trending titles include “Check & Mate” by Ali Hazelwood, “American Royals” by Katharine McGee, recent releases from Colleen Hoover, and the “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder” series for those who like romance with mystery elements. TikTok trends change rapidly, so check the #BookTokTrending hashtag for the latest hits.

How does BookTok help discover new YA romance authors?

BookTok has been revolutionary for debut and midlist authors, with creators often championing lesser-known writers. Authors like Ali Hazelwood and Elena Armas saw their careers transform after BookTok embraced their work. The platform’s algorithm also helps surface content from smaller creators, giving new authors a chance to go viral.

Can I find YA romance book recommendations based on my favorite authors?

Yes! Search for videos with formats like “If you like [author], you’ll love these books” or “Authors similar to [favorite author].” Creator @whatkatiereadnext specializes in these comparison-based recommendations, as do many other BookTok accounts.

What are some popular YA romance book series on BookTok?

Multi-book series are particularly popular on BookTok, with favorites including “A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas, “The Shadow Game” by Amanda Foody, “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” by Jenny Han, “The Folk of the Air” by Holly Black, and “American Royals” by Katharine McGee.

Are there any YA romance books with historical settings on BookTok?

Yes, historical YA romance has found its audience on BookTok. Popular recommendations include The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue by Mackenzi Lee, “House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin A. Craig (historical fantasy), and Lovely War by Julie Berry.

How do I write a YA romance book review for BookTok?

Successful BookTok reviews typically focus on emotional impact rather than detailed plot analysis. Focus on how the book made you feel, highlight favorite quotes or moments (without major spoilers), and clearly state what type of reader would enjoy the book. Keep videos under 60 seconds and use relevant hashtags.

What are some YA romance books with unique plot twists on BookTok?

BookTok loves a good twist! Frequently recommended books with surprising developments include We Were Liars by E. Lockhart, They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera (despite the title being a spoiler!), and The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes.

Can I find YA romance audiobook recommendations on BookTok?

Yes, there’s a growing #AudiobookTok community that focuses on narration quality. Popular YA romance audiobooks on BookTok include The Love Hypothesis (narrated by Callie Dalton), the ACOTAR series (narrated by Jennifer Ikeda), and Red, White & Royal Blue (narrated by Ramón de Ocampo).

How do I create engaging YA romance content for BookTok?

Focus on authentic emotional reactions, visually appealing aesthetics, and concise recommendations. Use trending sounds, incorporate popular hashtags, and develop a consistent posting schedule. Consider finding a specific niche within YA romance to help build your following.

Are there any YA romance book giveaways or contests on BookTok?

Many publishers, authors, and BookTok creators host regular giveaways. Follow hashtags like #BookGiveaway, #BookTokGiveaway, and #FreeBooks to find opportunities. Engaging with publisher accounts like @penguinteen and @epicreads can also connect you with official contests.

Final Thoughts

The marriage between YA romance and BookTok has created a vibrant, supportive community that celebrates the emotional impact of literature. Whether you’re looking for tear-jerking contemporaries, swoon-worthy fantasies, or sweet, clean romances, BookTok has recommendations waiting for you.

As someone who’s found countless new favorite books through this platform, I can attest to the joy of being part of a community that gets equally excited about fictional characters and their love stories. There’s something magical about watching a tearful video about a book and then experiencing those same emotions yourself days later when you reach that scene.

The next time you’re looking for a new YA romance to dive into, don’t just check the bestseller lists—open TikTok and see what BookTok is recommending. Your next favorite love story is just a swipe away.

Ready to join the BookTok community? Share your favorite YA romance reads in the comments below, or let us know which BookTok recommendation you’re planning to read next!