Cath moore
Metal Fish, Falling Snow
by Guyana author with Irish/Afro-Caribbean heritage
Australia Setting
Genres: Contemporary Fiction
Novel
Ages: 16+
Representation: Black identity, multiculturalism, family dynamics, grief and loss. Themes: Identity exploration, resilience, the bond of unexpected relationships, coping with tragedy, and the journey towards self-discovery.
Dylan dreams of sailing to France with her beloved French mother, envisioning Paris as a place where her black skin won't stand out. However, after losing her mother in a tragic accident, Dylan embarks on a different journey across outback Australia with her mother's grieving boyfriend, Pat. As they travel further from the ocean, they form an unexpected bond, which is tested when Pat leaves Dylan with family she never knew. "Metal Fish, Falling Snow" is a warm, humorous, and original story of a young girl's quest for identity and coping with loss, celebrating human resilience and the search for self-understanding.
Melissa Keil
The Incredible Adventures of Cinnamon Girl
In this captivating young adult novel by Melissa Keil, readers enter a world where romance blooms amidst impending doom. Alba enjoys her life in Eden Valley, working at a bakery and drawing comics. However, her peaceful existence is disrupted when a lost love returns and her best friend spirals out of control. Meanwhile, her comic creation starts reflecting her chaotic reality. As Doomsday enthusiasts gather in Eden Valley, Alba must navigate her emotions and relationships. Join her on a journey of laughter, heartache, and self-discovery, where love proves to be the most unpredictable adventure. Can she find clarity before everything unravels?
Young Adult Australia: Standalones
Discover an evocative collection of standalone Young Adult novels featuring Australian voices. These stories capture iconic landscapes, unique heritage, and the restless energy of life Down Under.
Ann Liang
This Time It's Real
Author: Grew up in China and Australia
Genres: Contemporary Romance
Novel
Ages: 16+
Representation and Themes: Explores themes of love, authenticity, and the pressures of fame, featuring a diverse cast and the complexities of teenage relationships.
Seventeen-year-old Eliza Lin's life takes a dramatic turn when her fictional essay about meeting her true love goes viral, earning her popularity and a coveted internship. However, the essay is a lie—Eliza has never been in love. To maintain her secret, she convinces Caz Song, a famous actor and classmate, to pretend to be her boyfriend in exchange for help with his college applications. As their fake relationship deepens, Eliza faces the dilemma of pursuing her dreams at the risk of breaking her own heart.
Melissa Keil
The Secret Science of Magic
by Australian author
Genres: Contemporary Romance
Novel
Ages: 14+
Representation and Themes: The novel explores themes of intellectualism vs. emotional growth, the complexities of young love, the challenges of transitioning to adulthood, and the importance of friendship and self-discovery.
Meet Sophia, a brilliant mind with a genius-calculator-brain, excelling in academics and relying on her intellect. As she transitions from high school to adulthood, she faces challenges her genius can't solve, forcing her to confront the messy realities of growing up and redefine her future.
Meanwhile, Joshua, a charming and quirky classmate, perfects magic tricks and dreams of winning Sophia’s heart. Despite his creativity, he struggles with schoolwork and impressing Sophia. He must navigate love and friendship in a world where timing is crucial.
From the award-winning author of Life in Outer Space and The Incredible Adventures of Cinnamon Girl, this novel explores the intertwined lives of two teens as they face the challenges of life after high school, discovering humor, heart, and rewarding discoveries along the way.
“Disclaimer: The links featured on this page are not affiliate links. I do not receive any commission or profit from any purchases or visits made through these links.”
Melissa Keil
Life in Outer Space
by Australian author
Genres: Contemporary Romance
Novel
Ages: 14+
Representation and Themes: Friendship, self-discovery, unrequited love, social dynamics, transformation, and the impact of popularity.
Sam, a geeky movie enthusiast, and his group of unpopular friends have long endured mistreatment from the popular crowd. However, when the charismatic Camilla arrives in town, she unexpectedly chooses to hang out with Sam's group, transforming their social status from geek to chic. As their social dynamics shift, Sam and Camilla grow closer, becoming best friends. Sam feels more content and confident than ever, but he eventually realizes he's in love with Camilla. The question remains whether revealing his feelings will alter their relationship once more.
Amie Kaufman, Meagan Spooner
The Other Side of the Sky series:
The Other Side of the Sky (Book 1)
Beyond the End of the World (Book 2)
By Australian Author, American Author (Washington)
Genres: Fantasy, Science Fiction, Romance
Novel
Ages: 16+
Representation and Themes: The book explores themes of forbidden romance, destiny, choice, and the clash between technology and magic, featuring diverse characters such as a prince and a living goddess.
In a captivating romance that blends the thrilling essence of "The 100" with the enchanting charm of a Miyazaki-inspired fantasy, two destinies collide in a tale of love, duty, and ancient magic.
Prince North, from a city suspended in the clouds, faces the collapse of his technologically advanced home and seeks the secrets of its origins in the mysterious land below, where ancient magicians and prophecies reign. Meanwhile, Nimh, the living goddess of the surface, struggles with her waning power and the spread of a deadly mist that threatens her people. As their paths intertwine, they are bound by a prophecy that endangers their existence. Together, they must confront their feelings and decide whether to save their people at the cost of their hearts or defy fate for a love that could transform everything.
Embark on a journey filled with adventure, magic, and the complexities of love in this enthralling tale where the skies and the earth are not the only realms at stake.
Epic YA Sagas & Series
Australia - Young Adult Series
A curated selector of Young Adult series and duologies highlighting Australian creators, settings, and themes. Immerse yourself in multi-book sagas that traverse the outback, explore coastal life, and reflect the diverse identity of Australia—ideal for readers seeking a long-term journey into the heart of Down Under tales.
Amie Kaufman, Meagan Spooner
Lady's Knight series:
Lady's Knight (Book 1)
One Knight Stand (Book 2)
By Australian Author, American Author (Washington)
Genres: LGBTQ+ Fantasy Romance, Arthurian Mythology and Folklore, Adventure
Novel
Ages: 16+
Representation and Themes: Feminism, LGBTQ+ representation, adventure, self-discovery, courage, friendship, and the challenge of societal norms. Arthurian Mythology and Folklore.
Enter a world where medieval legend meets humor and feminism in a tale reminiscent of A Knight’s Tale and the Lady Jane series, with a touch of The Great. Authors Amie Kaufman and Meagan Spooner offer a journey of valor, freedom, and love.
Gwen is tired of hiding her skills as a blacksmith, her attraction to girls, and her dream of knighthood. She craves adventure, but societal norms bind her in secrecy.
Lady Isobelle of Avington, the castle's queen bee, faces a new challenge as the prize in the Tournament of Dragonslayers, a role she never wanted.
When their paths cross, Isobelle learns of Gwen’s ambitions. Together, they plan for Gwen to enter the tournament disguised as Sir Gawain. Victory could mean freedom for Isobelle and glory for Gwen, but the risks are high.
As they face competition and courtly intrigue, unexpected love blossoms, complicating their plans. Amidst jousts and dragons, they must confront their fears and desires.
Join Gwen and Isobelle on an adventure where courage meets romance. Will they find their true selves or be consumed by their desires?