1. Gilt Hollow by Lorie Langdon
This has just the right amount of mystery, suspense, and romance. Willow has been dealing with the aftermath of being the only person to believe her best friend was innocent of murder. Ashton has been struggling to survive in prison. I was very excited for them to see each other again, and it lived up to my expectations. The author also kept me guessing about who the villain was. This book is YA perfection, and it deserves to be as well-known as the popular books that aren't half as good as this one.
2. Nevermore by Kelly Creagh
It's rare to find a book these days that is truly romantic. I know how difficult it is to convey more than physical attraction between the love interests. This author builds the romance with small details and subtle nuances, and it's a deeply felt connection.
The Raven is my favorite poem, and this story is almost as moody and atmospheric.
3. Chasing Truth by Julie Cross
If Veronica Mars was a con artist, she would be Ellie. She is just as smart, sassy, and quick-witted. And Miles is actually worthy of her. They clash and mistrust each other, but they fit together perfectly right from the start. They are just so fun together, and they have some great banter.
4. Deadly Cool by Gemma Halliday
I haven't read anything this light and fun in a long time. I already got a laugh out of the summary when I read that she found out her boyfriend was cheating on her with the president of the Chastity Club. The entire book continues in this vein, and it is a frothy confection of somehow relatable absurdity. I never imagined that a murder mystery could be this much breezy fun.
5. Haunted Hearts by Suzana Thompson
Yes, this is my book. Readers have said that it's a fun, exciting book. And it's free! This is a fast-paced YA paranormal romance with mystery and magic set in Salem.