The 2022 Fall Reading Guide YA Books

There’s something magical about getting swept away in a powerful young adult story—especially in the fall. If you’re craving books with bold heroines, high stakes, emotional depth, and unforgettable journeys, these picks from the 2022 Fall Reading Guide Young Adult Books Best list are exactly what you need. Whether you’re a teen reader or a grown-up YA lover (like me!), these books are packed with heart, purpose, and a lot to say about the world we live in—and the worlds we imagine.

Top 3 YA Books

I’m the Girl by Courtney Summers

In this emotionally raw and gripping thriller, 16-year-old Georgia Avis stumbles upon a dead body and is thrust into the dark, predatory underbelly of a wealthy, powerful community. As she tries to untangle the mystery, she becomes entangled in a seductive world of privilege, ambition, and danger—forcing her to confront what she’s willing to sacrifice to be seen and to survive.

I selected I’m the Girl because it doesn’t shy away from the messy, uncomfortable truths about power, beauty, and exploitation. For readers who loved Sadie or are drawn to sharp, feminist storytelling with an emotional punch, this one’s for you. It left me shaken, reflective, and deeply moved.

You can get a copy on Amazon.

Rust in the Root by Justina Ireland

Set in an alternate 1930s America where magic and technology intertwine, this historical fantasy follows Laura Ann Langston, a powerful young mage with dreams of joining the Bureau of the Arcane’s elite. When a dangerous assignment pairs her with Skylark, a mysterious and rebellious girl with secrets of her own, they uncover a threat that could change the future of magic—and their country—forever.

I included Rust in the Root because it beautifully blends history and fantasy while exploring race, power, and resistance. This is perfect for readers who enjoy books like Dread Nation or Legendborn, with queer rep and lush worldbuilding. It made me feel inspired and completely immersed in its bold reimagining of the past.

You can get a copy on Amazon.

Strike the Zither by Joan He

This epic fantasy kicks off a new series inspired by the classic Chinese tale Romance of the Three Kingdoms. We follow Zephyr, a brilliant strategist caught in a brutal war between three factions. But as betrayal and shifting loyalties unravel everything she thought she knew, Zephyr must question whether winning the war is worth the cost of her soul.

I chose Strike the Zither because it’s filled with razor-sharp twists, political intrigue, and a powerful female lead who commands attention. It’s a must-read for fans of The Poppy War, Shadow and Bone, or anyone craving a richly layered fantasy that blends history, myth, and rebellion. I couldn’t put it down—it’s clever, bold, and totally cinematic.

You can get a copy on Amazon.

Which YA Pick Will You Read First?

These young adult stories reminded me why I love the genre so much—because at their heart, they’re about transformation, bravery, and becoming. Let me know which one you’re picking up first in the comments