Our Favorite Rivals-to-Lovers YA Romances

Some readers might be into the enemies-to-lovers romance trope, but we think the rivals-to-lovers trope is where it’s at! But what’s the difference? We’re glad you asked! You see, enemies have different goals that are in conflict with each other, whereas rivals are competing against each other for the same goal. With that in mind, here are some of our favorite rivals-to-lovers YA romances!

All's Fair in Love and Field Hockey

By Kit Rosewater

A high school field hockey star must choose between her love of the game and her new, distractingly beautiful rival in this queer YA romance perfect for fans of Cleat Cute!

“A masterclass in romantic tension.”—Becky Albertalli, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda

Love at Full Tilt

By Jenny L. Howe

Coming 07.22.25

In this joyful celebration of fandoms, whirlwind romance, and plus-size girls, love is the ultimate roller coaster ride.

Love on Paper

By Danielle Parker

An ambitious teen novelist must play nice with her talented—and annoyingly handsome—rival at an exclusive writers’ retreat in this heartfelt romance from the author of You Bet Your Heart.

“Moving and memorable. A book you’ll want to return to again and again.” —Kristy Boyce, bestselling author of Dungeons and Drama

Love Points to You

By Alice Lin

A swoony rivals-to-lovers romance between driven, practical Lynda Fan and her rich, arrogant classmate, Angela Wu. When Angela offers Lynda the chance to design characters for her Otome game, Lynda discovers things she never knew about herself . . . or her heart.

Love is an art.

I Love You S'more

By Auriane Desombre

A sapphic rival-to-lovers story about two counselors who find an unexpected romance during a summer they will never forget! Perfect for fans of Auriane Desombre’s beloved debut I Think I Love You.