If you’re a lover of young adult books, there is also a good chance that you love the cozy feeling that comes when it’s raining. I grew up in New England, where it rains more often than not, and I’ve spent countless days reading YA fiction as the rain pelted the windows of my house. So, as a self-proclaimed expert on rainy-day novels, here are my top five recommendations for the readers who want the most immersive experience possible.
“I’ve chosen my life—now I want to start living it.”
We all saw this one coming, so let’s get it over with. A cult classic that takes place in rainy Forks, Washington, The Twilight Saga is basically begging to be read during a rainstorm. Every book in this series is enjoyable in its own way, but I would recommend Twilight or New Moon for this specific situation. Twilight is the classic love story, while New Moon is the tragic one. Depending on your mood, choose accordingly.
“My biggest fear is that someone will find out what I did ten years ago.”
Depending on how long it’s raining, The Lake is a good option to grab in a pinch. Natasha Preston’s books almost remind me of the old Wattpad days: they may not be the most complex or incredible reads, but they’re fast-paced and momentarily fulfilling. Set in a summer camp, The Lake is full of secrets, drama, and regret. This specific YA thriller is creepy and quick, which makes it a good fit for a fast, rainy reading session.
“Growth isn’t a deviation from what we’ve done before, but a natural progression to honor all those who make this community strong.”
This novel is an LGBTQIA+ story unlike any other romance novel I have read. Yadriel tries to prove himself as a sorcerer by summoning a ghost, but instead of a scary ghoul, he summons a bad boy who has recently died. Cemetery Boys is equal parts romantic and emotional, which pairs well with the relaxing yet melancholic feeling of rain.
“But sometimes I get this strange feeling, an ache not for something I miss, but for something I’ve never known.”
If you’re like me, the smell and sounds of rain are incredibly nostalgic. They remind me of the days I spent reading on summer vacation growing up. Today Tonight Tomorrow would be a great choice if you are looking for that reminiscent feeling. Typical high school rivals-to-lovers, the innocent yet complex relationship between the main characters, Rowan and Neil, is sweet and salty, just like a typical high school experience. I hate to bring up Wattpad again, but this book just might take you back to your peak reading years, before employment or higher education.
“If he had been with me, everything would have been different.”
Ending strongly with one of my favorite books of all time, If He Had Been With Me is a story for the gloom and sorrow of rainy days. Incredibly heartbreaking and complicated, the plot is enough to make a rain cloud appear above your head. If you’re in your feels or just crave a good cry, this choice is practically fool-proof. I didn’t initially read this book during a rainstorm, but if I had, my tears would have lasted for hours—a genuinely heartbreaking yet fulfilling combination.
That pretty much covers all our bases, but I’m confident that my list of recommendations will only grow as I move out of dry Arizona and back to rainy Connecticut. This blog is dedicated to the book lovers who can’t seem to find a raindrop—don’t worry, I’ll always have your back!
Callie Andrews, Pine Reads Review Writer, Social Media, and Web