With the weather getting warmer by day, there is no better time to take a break from everything and relax outside with a good novel. One of my favorite genres to explore is Young Adult Fiction. There is such a wide range of plots and sub-genres, and there's bound to be something for everybody to enjoy. John Green aside, I've put together a short list of some up and coming YA writers that I recommend checking out in 2017.

1. Sarah Dessen

Sarah Dessen is becoming more and more well-known as the years pass, but had her big break when two of her novels were combined to become a movie titled "How to Deal." The movie starred Mandy Moore and celebrated Dessen's brilliant understanding of female coming-of-age stories. From her first novel onward, this author has shed a light on young women going through tragedy or emotional hardship, then discusses how they find themselves and a solution to their problems. Dessen's novels have romance, feminist vibes, and heartfelt family moments. They are realistically beautiful.

2. Marie Lu

Marie Lu is a YA author who is becoming especially popular in the Fantasy/Dystopian Society area of literature. I recently dove into her series, "The Young Elites," which focuses on a land that had been struck by a fever. The fever affected many children, leaving many with nasty scars and marks. A rare few of these marked gained special powers, making them powerful beyond belief - some using the powers for positive change, and some not so much. Something that really caught my attention in "The Young Elites" is the focus on a leading character that is far from perfect. She struggles with inner demons and nothing seems to go right for her. You can almost feel her breaking as the chain of events unfolds, and then she has to learn to embrace what she's been left with and work with it. The tale contains a true test of power, character, and allegiance.

3. Kiera Cass

Kiera Cass is becoming very popular for her series, "The Selection." In a dystopian society, a selection takes place to find a suitable wife for the crown prince, and the winner receives countless rewards. Many enter - some for the right reasons, some for the opposite. If you love romance, shows like "The Bachelor," and even dip your fingers into politics, this series is for you. Cass has a wonderful method of writing that creates relatable and interesting characters, who instantly connect the reader to the novel. I enjoyed reading these strong, unique love stories, and I believe you will, too.

4. Rainbow Rowell

Rainbow Rowell first became known for her YA hit, "Eleanor and Park." Not long after, however, she came back with an equally as amazing novel, "Fangirl." The book focuses on Cath, a fan-fiction writer who puts everything into her writing and the world of fiction. It is only when she begins college that her friends make her realize there is a world full of possibility right in front of her. The novel focuses on family bonds, new friendships, and how to cope with the lows of life. Rainbow Rowell is very talented at writing about the struggle of growing up and emphasizes the support of true friends.

5. Jay Asher

You might have already heard of the new Netflix adaptation of "Thirteen Reasons Why" a stunning novel by Jay Asher. Whether you have or haven't started watching, be sure to check out the novel that inspired the series. This book focuses on the impact of words and seemingly small negative actions, and how they can build and build until they cause a collapse. For high-schooler, Hannah, they did just this, and she's ready to tell all. One catch, she's doing so after her death. This haunting tale will keep you on your toes and leave you reconsidering how you treat others. It is certainly a must-read.

With a few of these suggestions in mind, hit up your local library or Amazon.com and get reading! Remember that there are loads of fun reading challenges for 2017 to keep you motivated and exercising those eye muscles. Get going, and be sure to comment below with your own favorite authors and must-reads!