Are There Any Clean Romance Novels For Young Adults With Strong Female Leads?

As someone who devours YA romance like candy, I’m always on the hunt for books with strong female leads and wholesome vibes. One of my absolute favorites is 'The Princess Diaries' by Meg Cabot. Mia Thermopolis starts off as an awkward teen but grows into a confident young woman, and her journey is both hilarious and heartwarming. Another gem is 'To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before' by Jenny Han—Lara Jean’s quiet strength and relatable insecurities make her a standout protagonist.

For those who love fantasy with their romance, 'Graceling' by Kristin Cashore is perfection. Katsa is a fierce, independent warrior who refuses to be defined by others, and the slow-burn romance is incredibly satisfying. If contemporary is more your style, 'Anna and the French Kiss' by Stephanie Perkins features Anna, a girl who navigates love and self-discovery with wit and charm. These books all celebrate resilience, growth, and love without relying on unnecessary drama, making them perfect for readers craving clean, empowering stories.

I adore YA romance with strong female leads, especially when the focus is on character growth rather than just swoony moments. 'Eleanor & Park' by Rainbow Rowell is a standout—Eleanor’s resilience in the face of adversity is inspiring, and her relationship with Park feels authentic and tender. Another must-read is 'I’ll Give You the Sun' by Jandy Nelson, where Jude’s artistic passion and emotional depth shine. The romance is subtle but impactful.

For a lighter yet equally empowering pick, 'The Selection' by Kiera Cass features America Singer, who balances heart and independence in a competitive royal setting. If you prefer historical fiction, 'A Spy in the House' by Y.S. Lee offers a brilliant heroine in Mary Quinn, a detective-in-training who solves mysteries while navigating societal expectations. These novels prove that clean romance can be just as gripping and emotionally rich as any other genre.

Clean YA romance with strong heroines is my comfort zone, and 'The Hate U Give' by Angie Thomas tops my list. Starr’s courage and voice are unforgettable, and while romance isn’t the main focus, her relationship with Khalil adds layers to her story. For a sweeter vibe, 'Tweet Cute' by Emma Lord delivers—Pepper’s determination and humor make her a joy to follow, and the rivals-to-lovers arc is adorable without being cliché.

I also love 'The Lunar Chronicles' by Marissa Meyer for its sci-fi twist. Cinder’s ingenuity and moral compass drive the series, and the romance is woven seamlessly into her larger quest. These books all feature girls who aren’t waiting to be saved—they’re the ones doing the saving, and that’s what makes them so special.

If you want clean YA romance with heroines who kick butt, 'The Raven Boys' by Maggie Stiefvater is a great choice. Blue’s quirky confidence and psychic family backdrop make her stand out. For contemporary, 'Since You’ve Been Gone' by Morgan Matson follows Emily as she steps out of her shell, proving quiet strength is just as powerful. Both books balance heart and independence beautifully.