This winter’s cold snaps have been anything but Texan, and I’m definitely counting down to 80-degree days, sunshine, and the start of gardening season. As I daydream about wildflowers on the highways and warm afternoons, I can’t help but think about the perfect books to match the season—because what’s better than a good read in the spring sunshine? Whether you’re in the mood for an lush fantasy, a feel-good contemporary, or a captivating new story, these five YA books are just the thing to shake off the winter chill and welcome spring.
1. The Infinity Courts by Akemi Dawn Bowman
What happens after you die? For Nami Miyamoto, the afterlife isn’t what she expected. Instead of peace, she finds herself in a digital world ruled by an AI dictator. With stunning sci-fi-meets-fantasy worldbuilding, this book is perfect if you love philosophical themes and imaginative storytelling. (Gr. 8-12)
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| Bowman, Akemi Dawn. The Infinity Courts. Simon Pulse, 2021. Book cover image retrieved from https://amzn.to/4h1KIoS. |
2. The Secret Garden on 81st Street by Ivy Noelle Weir
A modern graphic novel retelling of The Secret Garden, this book brings themes of healing, self-discovery, and friendship into an urban setting. Mary Lennox moves to NYC and discovers a rooftop garden with the power to change everything. This is a feel-good, cozy read that captures the magic of springtime renewal. (Gr. 4-7)
3. The Rose Bargain by Sasha Peyton Smith
Set in an alternate Victorian-era England ruled by an immortal fae queen, this captivating romantasy follows Ivy Benton as she enters a competition to win Prince Bram's hand. With her family's reputation in tatters, Ivy sees the contest as her chance to restore her family's standing. Assisted by the charming Prince Emmett, Bram's brother, Ivy journeys through treacherous trials and uncovers dark secrets about the fae court. Perfect for fans of The Cruel Prince and The Selection. (Gr. 9-12)
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| The image at https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/815K-70mLDL.SY522.jpg is the cover of The Rose Bargain by M.J. Kuhn |
4. Wild Beauty by Anna-Marie McLemore
A lush, magical novel about the Nomeolvides women, who have spent generations tending the enchanted La Pradera gardens. But their family is cursed—whenever they fall in love, their lovers vanish. When a boy appears from the earth itself, their world changes forever. This book is perfect for readers who love dreamy, nature-infused storytelling and magical realism. (Gr. 7-12)
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| McLemore, Anna-Marie. Wild Beauty. Feiwel & Friends, 2017. Book cover image retrieved from Amazon. |
5. A Tempest of Tea by Hafsah Faizal
A fantasy heist novel set in a gothic tea house run by a cunning businesswoman? Yes, please! Featuring vampires, rebellion, and dark academia vibes, this first in a duology is for readers who love moody, atmospheric storytelling. (Gr. 9-12)
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| Faizal, Hafsah. A Tempest of Tea. Macmillan, 2024. Book cover image retrieved from https://amzn.to/3XdW1n1. |
To help set the mood, I’ve also included a music playlist and a pastry recipe that pair perfectly with these reads. Which of these books are you adding to your spring TBR? Let me know in the comments!
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