As college students, we often find ourselves navigating the complex world of relationships, trying to balance academic success and our personal lives. The following novels explore the intricacies of love and relationships in the college setting, taking us on an emotional journey through the ups and downs of young love.

“Eleanor & Park” by Rainbow Rowell

Rainbow Rowell’s “Eleanor & Park” tells the story of two misfit teenagers who fall in love on the school bus. Set in the 1980s, the novel explores the themes of first love, identity, and family struggles. The protagonists, Eleanor and Park, come from very different backgrounds, but they find solace in each other’s company. This heartwarming tale of young love is sure to tug at your heartstrings and leave you feeling nostalgic for your own first love.

“The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green

John Green’s “The Fault in Our Stars” is a modern classic that explores the complexities of love, life, and death. The novel follows two teenagers, Hazel and Gus, who meet at a cancer support group and fall in love. Their romance is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, as they navigate the challenges of their illnesses and the uncertain future that lies ahead. Green’s writing is raw, honest, and deeply moving, making this novel a must-read for anyone who has experienced the pain of loss.

“Fangirl” by Rainbow Rowell

In “Fangirl,” Rainbow Rowell explores the world of fandom and young love. The novel follows the story of Cath, a freshman in college who is struggling to find her place in the world. Cath is a talented writer and a devoted fan of a popular book series, but she struggles with social anxiety and the pressures of growing up. When she meets a fellow fanfiction writer named Levi, she begins to open up to new experiences and new relationships. This novel is a charming and relatable exploration of college life, fandom, and the complexities of young love.

“The Idiot” by Elif Batuman

Elif Batuman’s “The Idiot” is a coming-of-age novel set in the 1990s that follows the story of Selin, a freshman at Harvard University. Selin is an introverted and intellectual student who finds herself drawn to a charismatic and mysterious senior named Ivan. The novel explores the complexities of language, culture, and identity, as Selin navigates her relationships with Ivan and the other students in her classes. This beautifully written novel is a poignant and insightful exploration of young love and the search for meaning in the college years.

Whether you’re currently in college or just looking to relive the nostalgia of your own college days, these novels offer a captivating and emotional exploration of young love and relationships. From the raw and honest portrayal of loss in “The Fault in Our Stars” to the heartwarming tale of first love in “Eleanor & Park,” these novels will make you laugh, cry, and fall in love all over again. So pick up one of these novels and get ready to be transported back to the world of dorm rooms, study sessions, and young love.