Books Like...
If you liked Punk 57, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
A steamy, addictive, and polarizing forbidden romance - either you'll be hooked from the tension and angst, or you'll be put off by the taboo content and sometimes messy characters. Approach with an open mind and prepare for an emotional rollercoaster!
Birthday Girl by Penelope Douglas is a contemporary romance novel that explores the forbidden love trope, focusing on the relationship between Jordan and Pike. The story unfolds as Jordan, celebrating her birthday, meets Pike, her boyfriend's father, at a movie theater. Despite the age gap and societal taboos, their connection deepens, leading to a complex and angsty love story. The writing style is described as genuine, sweet, and well-paced, with a slow-burn romance that builds on genuine chemistry and character development.
Unease pricks at the back of my neck. If he’s not answering, then he’s either asleep or out. Both could mean he’ll remember me after it’s too late. He’s not always unreliable, but this wouldn’t be the...April 2018•406 pages - #2
Messy, angsty, and undeniably addictive - Bully is a guilty pleasure in the enemies-to-lovers lane, perfect for fans of emotional drama but definitely not for everyone.
'Bully' by Penelope Douglas delves into the complex relationship between childhood friends turned enemies, Jared and Tate. The story follows Tate as she navigates the intense bullying she faces from Jared upon returning from a year abroad. As the plot unfolds, readers witness the evolution of their relationship from animosity to romance, intertwined with themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the lasting impact of bullying. The writing style captures the angst, tension, and emotional depth of the characters, drawing readers into a story of love, betrayal, and self-discovery.
I smiled to myself. My best friend knew me too well. I liked to drive fast. I liked to move fast. I walked as quickly as my legs could take me, and I drove as speedily as was reasonable. I rushed to e...2013•344 pages - #3
One of the most infamous and polarizing dark romances out there - intense, steamy, and a bit unhinged. Lovers of high-heat, boundary-pushing stories will devour it, but it's a hard pass for those who don’t enjoy morally messy or uncomfortable reads.
Corrupt by Penelope Douglas is a dark and suspenseful romance novel that follows the unique and intense relationship between Rika and Michael. The story is filled with mind games, dangerous pranks, and boundary-pushing freedom, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The plot switches between past and present, revealing a mysterious and lust-filled narrative that challenges the characters' sense of right and wrong.
I didn’t need a new dress. I already had several I’d only worn once, and at nineteen, I could definitely pick out my own clothes. Not that he would be here to see it anyway, and if he was, he wouldn’t...2015•511 pages - #4
A high-voltage, drama-packed enemies-to-lovers romance that’s either gloriously addictive or just too much, depending on your taste for angst and bold, messy characters.
"Pretty Reckless" by L.J. Shen is a raw and intense story set in the All Saints High universe, focusing on the next generation known as the HotHoles. The plot revolves around the complicated relationship between Daria Followhill, a mean girl with a troubled past, and Penn, a bad boy from the wrong side of the tracks. The writing style is described as addictive, dual POV, and filled with drama, romance, familial conflicts, and unexpected twists that keep readers engaged and emotionally invested.
It always is when Vaughn fights, and Vaughn always fights. He breaks noses almost as well as he breaks hearts. Breaking hearts, in case you’re wondering, is his second-favorite art. At least six girls...April 2019•362 pages - #5
Vicious is an angsty, addictive enemies-to-lovers romance with a polarizing bad boy and captivating heroine - perfect for readers who crave intensity, drama, and deeply flawed love stories.
'Vicious' by L.J. Shen is a gripping tale that delves into the complex relationship between Barron Vicious Spencer and Emilia. Shen skillfully reveals the past history between the characters, keeping readers guessing and engaged throughout the story. The writing style is described as intense, with a mix of 18-year-old and 28-year-old perspectives, creating a captivating narrative that explores unresolved issues from the characters' past.
MY GRANDMAMA ONCE TOLD ME that love and hate are the same feelings experienced under different circumstances. The passion is the same. The pain is the same. That weird thing that bubbles in your chest...December 2016•374 pages - #6
A wild, boundary-pushing ride: hot, messy, and unforgettable for some - deeply off-putting for others. Check the trigger warnings; if you're curious, buckle up!
Tiernan de Haas, a young woman who has been neglected her whole life, finds herself emotionally stunted and withdrawn following the sudden death of her parents. Seeking to escape the Hollywood spotlight, she travels to live with her father's estranged stepbrother and his two sons in a remote mountain town in Colorado. The story unfolds as Tiernan navigates the complex emotional journeys of herself and the three men, delving into unconventional relationships and pushing boundaries between love and obsession.
Credence by Penelope Douglas is an emotionally intense and gripping novel that explores dark and twisted themes through complex character relationships. The narrative follows Tiernan's journey of self-discovery and human connection, intertwining mystery and suspense with unique and well-developed characters facing their own demons and seeking resolutions in the remote town of Chapel Peak.
It’s strange. The tire swing in the yard is the only thing that makes it look like a kid lives here. There were never any drawings in the house. None on the fridge or walls. No children’s books on the...January 2020•486 pages - #7
Wildly addictive, drama-packed, and definitely not for the faint of heart - a total guilty pleasure read as long as you’re in the mood for heightened angst and soapy twists.
Paper Princess by Erin Watt is a New Adult novel that follows the story of Ella, a strong and resilient protagonist who finds herself thrust into the world of the entitled and wealthy Royals. The book delves into themes of survival, family, love, and overcoming challenges as Ella navigates her new life with the Royal family, facing drama, secrets, and unexpected twists along the way. The writing style is described as fast-paced, addictive, and engaging, with a mix of witty dialogue, strong character development, and intense emotions that keep readers hooked from the very beginning.
“No, it’s not about tardiness…this time.” Her normally flinty gaze is soft around the edges, and my gut relays a warning to my sluggish morning brain. Ms. Weir is a hard ass, which is why I like her....April 2016•377 pages - #8
Angsty, addictive, and seriously dark - Deviant King is a wild ride for fans of bully romance. Not for everyone, but if you love the genre and crave drama with a heavy dose of spice, it's worth a try (just check the trigger warnings first!).
'Deviant King' in the series 'Royal Elite' by Rina Kent is a dark high school romance that explores the complicated relationship between the characters Aiden and Elsa. Aiden, portrayed as possessive and twisted, pushes the boundaries of their interactions, leading to a rollercoaster of emotions and power dynamics. The writing style of the book is described as intense and precise, with a gripping plot that keeps readers hooked until the unexpected cliffhanger ending.
Aunt Blair’s red hair never lost its fiery, natural colour, hanging in perfect waves to her shoulders. She has high cheekbones and a tall, slender, model-like figure that makes my awkward, sixteen-yea...2019•361 pages - #9
If you’re in the mood for a slow-build, heartfelt romance told through letters and emails, Dear Aaron serves up all the feels - just be prepared for a steady, gentle pace rather than big dramatic fireworks.
'Dear Aaron' by Mariana Zapata is a slow burn romance that follows the story of Ruby, a 23-year-old girl who decides to exchange letters with a soldier, Aaron, 28, who is deployed overseas. The book explores their growing relationship through weekly letters and emails, showcasing their journey from penpals to friends and eventually more. The writing style is described as nostalgic, relatable, and emotional, with a focus on character development and a realistic portrayal of a long-distance relationship.
June 2017•498 pages - #10
Equal parts gripping and frustrating, "Cruel Prince" is a must for lovers of angsty, twisty, emotional high school romances. It's not perfect, but it's impossible to put down if you want a wild ride of feels.
'Cruel Prince' in the series 'Royal Hearts Academy' by author Ashley Jade is a high school bully romance that follows the tumultuous relationship between Dylan and Jace. The story is filled with lies, secrets, heartbreak, and a rollercoaster of emotions as the characters navigate through their past friendship, present animosity, and complicated feelings. The writing style is described as engaging, with a plot that keeps readers hooked, a mix of angst, romance, and unexpected twists that culminate in a page-turner filled with deep emotions.
Although cleared out is a bit of an understatement. Aside from the queen-sized bed covered with a purple bedspread, an empty bureau, and yet another Post-it note promising to take me shopping later in...2019•406 pages











