“After“, penned by Anna Todd, is a series that has caught the hearts of many with its raw, intense, and heartfelt portrayal of a young relationship. The series follows Tessa Young and Hardin Scott, whose turbulent love story becomes a roller coaster of emotions and personal growth.
If you’ve turned the last page of “After” with a sense of longing and are looking for books that capture similar themes or styles, you’ve come to the right place. The subsequent sections present a carefully curated list of books that delve into young love, trials, personal growth, and complexities of relationships much like “After“.
Let’s embark on this literary journey together.
“The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green
“The Fault in Our Stars” is an exquisite exploration of teenage life and love under the shadow of terminal illness. The story revolves around Hazel Grace Lancaster, a 16-year-old cancer patient, and Augustus Waters, a charming and witty boy she meets at a cancer support group. Their mutual understanding of life, death, and love weaves a touching narrative that tugs at the heartstrings.
Reason for Choosing
John Green’s masterpiece shares a core similarity with the “After” series – it delves deep into the emotional labyrinth of young love. While “After” illustrates how a relationship can become a rollercoaster ride, Green’s novel reminds us that love can bloom even in the harshest circumstances. This intense emotional exploration might resonate with fans of the “After” series, making “The Fault in Our Stars” a recommended read.
“Fifty Shades of Grey” by E.L. James
“Fifty Shades of Grey” narrates the story of Anastasia Steele, an inexperienced literature student, and Christian Grey, a young, successful, and enigmatic businessman. Their initial meeting blossoms into a complex and somewhat controversial relationship that pushes the boundaries of traditional romance. As Anastasia uncovers the secrets of the tormented yet attractive Christian Grey, the book leads us through a thrilling journey into a world of passion and unconventional desires.
Reason for Choosing
“Fifty Shades of Grey” is suggested for those “After” fans who enjoyed the more adult-themed narratives and passionate, complicated relationships. The dynamics between Anastasia and Christian reflect some elements found in Hardin and Tessa’s relationship, especially in terms of dealing with past traumas and the impact these have on their romance. Be warned, however: the adult content in “Fifty Shades of Grey” is more explicit and can be considered darker than that in the “After” series.
“Beautiful Disaster” by Jamie McGuire
“Beautiful Disaster” tells the story of Abby Abernathy, a good girl with a dark past, and Travis Maddox, a charming bad boy. Abby attempts to maintain her image while being drawn to the dangerous and thrilling world of Travis, an underground fight champion. Their love story is tumultuous, intense, and full of passion – a true disaster in the making.
Reason for Choosing
“Beautiful Disaster” makes it to this list due to its core parallels with “After”. Like Hardin and Tessa, Abby and Travis engage in a passionate, consuming, and at times, volatile relationship. The way Abby and Travis navigate their connection, rife with personal demons and emotional hurdles, echoes Tessa and Hardin’s journey, making this book a fascinating read for “After” series fans.
“The Edge of Never” by J.A Redmerski
“The Edge of Never” spins the tale of 20-year-old Camryn Bennett, who impulsively decides to embark on a cross-country bus ride to escape her stagnant life. On this journey, she encounters Andrew Parrish, a fellow passenger with his own secrets and journey. As they traverse through states, their casual companionship morphs into an intense love story that forces them to confront their inner demons and embrace life to the fullest.
Reason for Choosing
“The Edge of Never” is a fantastic choice for “After” series enthusiasts due to its engaging journey of self-discovery and emotional growth, akin to the path that Tessa and Hardin navigate. Redmerski beautifully encapsulates the nuances of a love story that evolves amidst personal struggles and life-changing decisions. Similar to “After”, this novel does not shy away from presenting the raw, profound emotions that come with young love and self-discovery, making it a great follow-up read.
“Easy” by Tammara Webber
“Easy” follows Jacqueline Wallace, a young woman who, after a shocking break-up, finds herself drawn to her Philosophy tutor, Lucas Maxfield. Lucas is a charismatic mystery with a troubled past. As Jacqueline gets closer to him, she begins to unravel his secrets, while also discovering her own strength and resilience.
Reason for Choosing
“Easy” is a compelling choice for readers who appreciate the complexities of college romances and deep emotional themes present in “After”. Just like Tessa and Hardin, Jacqueline and Lucas grapple with past traumas and personal growth, all set against the backdrop of a university environment. Tammara Webber’s novel explores themes of trust, redemption, and the healing power of love, traits that made the “After” series resonate with so many readers.
“The Vincent Boys” by Abbi Glines
“The Vincent Boys” focuses on Ashton Gray, who finds herself torn between her steady boyfriend, Sawyer, and his bad boy cousin, Beau. Ashton’s seemingly perfect life gets complicated as she navigates her feelings for both Vincent boys. The book brings to life a thrilling tale of forbidden love, loyalty, and the consequences of choices.
Reason for Choosing
“The Vincent Boys” may cater to “After” readers who are drawn to romantic dynamics involving multiple love interests. The emotional complexities that Ashton undergoes, coupled with the heart-wrenching decision she must make, mirror the intense and passionate relationship struggles Tessa faces in “After”. Abbi Glines paints a captivating picture of love and longing, which should satisfy fans of the “After” series.
“Ugly Love” by Colleen Hoover
“Ugly Love” tells the story of Tate Collins and Miles Archer, two individuals who believe they understand the construct of love and relationships until they cross paths. Miles, a pilot with a heartbreaking past, has rules that keep him safe from the vulnerabilities of love. Tate, a nurse, finds herself irresistibly drawn towards him despite these barriers. Their connection is undeniable but weighed down by Miles’s past, resulting in a tale that is both beautiful and heartbreaking.
Reason for Choosing
“Ugly Love” dives deep into emotional turmoil and complex relationships, themes that “After” fans will find familiar and appealing. The intense connection between Tate and Miles, their struggles, and their journey of healing may remind readers of the dynamic between Tessa and Hardin. Like “After”, Colleen Hoover’s novel presents a raw and passionate portrayal of love and the wounds that come with it, making it a powerful follow-up read.
Conclusion
Encouragement to Explore the Suggested Books
We hope this curated list inspires you to venture into new narratives that capture the essence of young love, personal growth, and the complexities of relationships that made the “After” series so compelling. Each of these books offers a unique perspective on these themes, providing a variety of reading experiences for you to explore.
Invitation for Readers to Share Their Own Recommendations and Reflections
We would love to hear your thoughts on these books if you choose to read them. Additionally, if you have other recommendations that you believe would resonate with fellow “After” series fans, feel free to share them. Let’s continue this literary journey together, delving into more stories that touch our hearts and minds.
Additional Recommendations
“Bared to You” by Sylvia Day
This novel centers around Eva and Gideon, both battling their demons, who find solace and an undeniable attraction in each other. This book is recommended for its intense romantic relationship and exploration of personal traumas similar to “After”.
“Thoughtless” by S.C. Stephens
“Thoughtless” is a gripping story about a love triangle involving Kiera, her boyfriend Denny, and his best friend Kellan. Its focus on complex relationship dynamics would be familiar to readers of “After”.
“Maybe Someday” by Colleen Hoover
This book features a romantic relationship built around music between Sydney and her neighbor Ridge. “Maybe Someday” is recommended for its emotional depth and intricate relationship dynamics.
“Slammed” by Colleen Hoover
“Slammed” explores the story of Layken and Will, whose relationship is fraught with challenges. This novel is recommended for the way it handles personal growth and life’s adversities in the context of a romantic relationship.
“Fallen Too Far” by Abbi Glines
This novel tells the story of Blaire who finds herself falling for her stepbrother Rush. It is recommended for its intense love story and the challenges the main characters must overcome.
“On Dublin Street” by Samantha Young
“On Dublin Street” features Jocelyn and Braden’s romantic relationship set in Edinburgh, Scotland. This book is suggested due to its rich portrayal of a romance blossoming amidst personal struggles.
“Sweet Filthy Boy” by Christina Lauren
The novel, set in Las Vegas, follows Mia and Ansel, who after a wild night, decide to explore their connection. It’s recommended for its exploration of an unexpected romantic relationship, similar to “After”.
“Rule” by Jay Crownover
“Rule” explores the passionate relationship between Rule and Shaw. This novel is recommended for its portrayal of a tumultuous romance and the personal growth of its characters.
“Wait for You” by J. Lynn
This book features Avery and Cam’s blossoming romance in college. The book is recommended for its engaging narrative of young love and dealing with past traumas.
“Losing It” by Cora Carmack
“Losing It” tells the story of Bliss, who finds herself drawn to her theater professor, Garrick. This novel is suggested for its depiction of a complex, forbidden love story and its college setting, much like “After”.
