What Young Adult Historical Fiction Series Should I Binge-Read?

2025-07-16 13:47:31 257

4 Answers

Henry
Henry
2025-07-21 08:37:55
As someone who practically lives in the world of historical fiction, I can't recommend enough the 'Stalking Jack the Ripper' series by Kerri Maniscalco. It's a perfect blend of dark mystery and rich historical detail set in Victorian London, following the brilliant Audrey Rose Wadsworth as she defies societal norms to study forensic medicine. The chemistry between her and Thomas Cresswell is electrifying, and the way the series weaves real historical figures into the narrative is masterful.

Another series that stole my heart is 'The Infernal Devices' by Cassandra Clare. Set in the same universe as 'The Mortal Instruments', this trilogy dives into 19th-century London with a supernatural twist. The love triangle between Tessa, Will, and Jem is one of the most beautifully written in YA literature, and the Victorian setting adds so much depth to the story. For those who enjoy political intrigue, 'The Conqueror's Saga' by Kiersten White offers a gender-bent retelling of Vlad the Impaler's rise to power, packed with action and complex characters.
Dominic
Dominic
2025-07-21 02:13:17
I'm absolutely obsessed with YA historical fiction that transports you to another time while keeping the pacing tight and the romance swoon-worthy. 'The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue' by Mackenzi Lee is a standout - following a bisexual nobleman's grand tour of Europe in the 1700s, it's equal parts hilarious, adventurous, and touching. The sequel 'The Lady's Guide to Petticoats and Piracy' is just as good, focusing on his fiercely independent sister.

For something with more magical elements, 'The Gilded Wolves' by Roshani Chokshi is fantastic. Set in Paris during the Belle Époque, it follows a diverse crew of treasure hunters solving puzzles and uncovering secrets. The historical details about the 1889 World's Fair are woven seamlessly into the heist plot. And if you want a series that'll emotionally wreck you in the best way, 'Salt to the Sea' by Ruta Sepetys tells the heartbreaking true story of the Wilhelm Gustloff disaster through multiple perspectives.
Emma
Emma
2025-07-21 23:31:42
Historical fiction with strong female leads always grabs my attention, and 'The Bloody Jack' series by L.A. Meyer is one of my all-time favorites. Following Jacky Faber from orphan to pirate to spy across 12 books set during the Napoleonic Wars, it's packed with adventure, humor, and just enough romance. The audiobooks narrated by Katherine Kellgren are phenomenal - she brings Jacky's vivacious personality to life perfectly.

Another series I adore is 'The Luxe' by Anna Godbersen, which feels like 'Gossip Girl' in 1899 Manhattan high society. The drama, the gorgeous period costumes, the scandalous love affairs - it's all so deliciously addictive. For something with more fantasy elements, 'The Kingdom of Back' by Marie Lu blends historical fiction about Mozart's sister with magical realism in a truly unique way.
Yasmine
Yasmine
2025-07-19 08:24:21
If you want a series that combines historical accuracy with page-turning excitement, try 'Code Name Verity' by Elizabeth Wein. Set during WWII, it follows a female spy and her pilot best friend in a story that will leave you emotionally shattered but grateful for the experience. The attention to detail about women's roles in the war is impeccable.

For something lighter, 'My Lady Jane' by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, and Jodi Meadows is a hilarious alternate history of Lady Jane Grey's reign. Imagine 'The Princess Bride' meets Tudor England with magical transformations. The writing is witty, the romance is charming, and it manages to be both irreverent and respectful to the period.
View All Answers
Scan code to download App

Related Books

Mr Fiction
Mr Fiction
What happens when your life is just a lie? What happens when you finally find out that none of what you believe to be real is real? What if you met someone who made you question everything? And what happens when your life is nothing but a fiction carved by Mr. Fiction himself? "The truth is rarely pure and never simple." — Oscar Wilde. Disclaimer: this story touches on depression, losing someone, and facing reality instead of taking the easy way out. ( ( ( part of TBNB Series, this is the story of Clarabelle Summers's writers ))
10
19 Chapters
Into the Fiction
Into the Fiction
"Are you still afraid of me Medusa?" His deep voice send shivers down my spine like always. He's too close for me to ignore. Why is he doing this? He's not supposed to act this way. What the hell? Better to be straight forward Med! I gulped down the lump formed in my throat and spoke with my stern voice trying to be confident. "Yes, I'm scared of you, more than you can even imagine." All my confidence faded away within an instant as his soft chuckle replaced the silence. Jerking me forward into his arms he leaned forward to whisper into my ear. "I will kiss you, hug you and bang you so hard that you will only remember my name to sa-, moan. You will see me around a lot baby, get ready your therapy session to get rid off your fear starts now." He whispered in his deep husky voice and winked before leaving me alone dumbfounded. Is this how your death flirts with you to Fuck your life!? There's only one thing running through my mind. Lifting my head up in a swift motion and glaring at the sky, I yelled with all my strength. "FUC* YOU AUTHOR!" ~~~~~~~~~ What if you wished for transmigating into a Novel just for fun, and it turns out to be true. You transimigated but as a Villaness who died in the end. A death which is lonely, despicable and pathetic. Join the journey of Kiara who Mistakenly transmigates into a Novel. Will she succeed in surviving or will she die as per her fate in the book. This story is a pure fiction and is based on my own imagination.
10
17 Chapters
They Read My Mind
They Read My Mind
I was the biological daughter of the Stone Family. With my gossip-tracking system, I played the part of a meek, obedient girl on the surface, but underneath, I would strike hard when it counted. What I didn't realize was that someone could hear my every thought. "Even if you're our biological sister, Alicia is the only one we truly acknowledge. You need to understand your place," said my brothers. 'I must've broken a deal with the devil in a past life to end up in the Stone Family this time,' I figured. My brothers stopped dead in their tracks. "Alice is obedient, sensible, and loves everyone in this family. Don't stir up drama by trying to compete for attention." I couldn't help but think, 'Well, she's sensible enough to ruin everyone's lives and loves you all to the point of making me nauseous.' The brothers looked dumbfounded.
9.9
10 Chapters
Burned (New Adult Romance)
Burned (New Adult Romance)
All 20 year old Holly ever wanted to do was escape the boring Colorado mountain town where she was born. However, when she arrived at college, she found herself having too many wild nights. Worse yet, she had one too many mornings of waking up in an unfamiliar bed, and she couldn't keep her scholarship. Now that's she's back in Conifer, she has no idea what she is going to do with her life and no hope for the future. Andrew's father died a couple years ago in an electrical accident, and while Andrew wants nothing more than to leave town, his mother's mental instability makes it impossible for him to go. He feels trapped in a no-win situation and his options are slipping away. When a mutual friend has a crisis, Holly comes up with a plan, a plan that will change all their lives for the better. She knows that, despite previously being burned, all it takes to start a fire is a spark. However, she realizes that once again, she may have stood too close to the flame, and the torch she carries for Andrew burns brighter than ever. Will Holly manage to rekindle old loves, or will the destructive fire in their hearts consume everything they hold dear?
Not enough ratings
26 Chapters
Babysitting The Billionaire’s Adult Son
Babysitting The Billionaire’s Adult Son
Being rejected by one organisation to another was Melanie Watson, she graduated from the state university three years ago but couldn't secure a job because of her poor diploma. She didn't stop job hunting because of the loan she's going to refund in few weeks time. She borrowed some money from a fiercely casino to sponsor her education and she's to refund the money in three folds. A few weeks to the allotted time, Melanie was offered a babysitting job. She hasn't meet with the baby she's going to babysit before she requested for a year's advance payment. How will she cope when she gets to the mansion and realise that the boy she's going to babysit is not just a boy, but Archie Gordon, a thirteen years old boy who resents his father with passion? Melanie found herself stuck between the father and son discomfort that she was going to face for the next year. How will she cope when she found herself falling in love with Alfred Gordon and she's to choose between the broken son who wants her attention and the father who wants nothing but her love?
10
105 Chapters
MISCHIEVOUS: a new adult romance
MISCHIEVOUS: a new adult romance
Quinlan Torres has responsibilities - one more year of college, a brother who needs a lot of extra supervision, and a best friend in the middle of a hostile takeover of her late father's company. The best thing for her to do would be to keep her head down, her eye on the ball, and her mind clear of any distractions. Problem is, her best friend's boyfriend has this brother...
10
51 Chapters

Related Questions

How Do Young Adult Historical Novels Differ From Adult Historical Fiction?

2 Answers2025-07-16 21:33:36
Young adult historical novels hit differently because they focus on coming-of-age themes while weaving in historical settings. The protagonists are usually teens or young adults, making it easier for younger readers to connect. The language tends to be more accessible, with less dense prose and more dialogue-driven storytelling. These books often emphasize personal growth, rebellion against societal norms, or first loves—all framed within historical events. Think 'The Book Thief' vs. 'Wolf Hall.' One follows a girl’s emotional journey through WWII, while the other dives deep into political machinations of Tudor England with complex language and adult perspectives. Adult historical fiction, on the other hand, often prioritizes intricate world-building and nuanced political or social commentary. The stakes are broader, and the narratives might explore multiple perspectives, including those of older characters. The prose can be more lyrical or detailed, demanding a slower read. YA historical fiction doesn’t shy away from heavy themes, but it packages them in a way that feels immediate and urgent for younger readers. The pacing is usually quicker, with a stronger emphasis on emotional impact rather than historical minutiae.

Are There Any New Young Adult Historical Fiction Releases?

4 Answers2025-07-16 10:02:04
As someone who devours historical fiction like it’s going out of style, I’ve been thrilled by the recent wave of young adult releases. 'The Foxglove King' by Hannah Whitten is a standout, blending lush 18th-century vibes with dark magic and political intrigue. Another gem is 'The Davenports' by Krystal Marquis, a dazzling debut set in 1910 Chicago, following the lives of a wealthy Black family—think 'Bridgerton' but with more depth and cultural richness. For those craving something grittier, 'The Poison Season' by Mara Rutherford offers a eerie, forest-bound society with deadly secrets. And if you love alternate history, 'Only a Monster' by Vanessa Len twists time-travel tropes into a fresh, morally complex narrative. These books aren’t just about corsets and castles; they’re about reclaiming voices often left out of history, with prose that crackles like firelight.

Which Young Adult Historical Fiction Novels Became Movies?

4 Answers2025-07-16 02:12:32
As someone who devours both historical fiction and film adaptations, I’ve noticed that many young adult novels set in the past have made the leap to the big screen with stunning results. 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak is a prime example—this WWII-era story about a girl who finds solace in books during Nazi Germany was beautifully adapted into a film that captures its emotional depth. Another standout is 'The Boy in the Striped Pajamas' by John Boyne, which explores the Holocaust through the eyes of two young boys. The movie adaptation amplifies the heartbreaking innocence of the novel. For those who love adventure with a historical twist, 'How I Live Now' by Meg Rosoff offers a gripping tale of survival during a fictional war, and the film brings its raw intensity to life. 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen, though not originally YA, has been adapted multiple times and remains a favorite among teen readers for its timeless romance. Lastly, 'The Giver' by Lois Lowry, while more dystopian, has historical undertones in its critique of societal control, and the film adaptation adds a visual layer to its thought-provoking themes.

Which Authors Specialize In Young Adult Historical Fiction?

4 Answers2025-07-16 17:25:36
As someone who devours historical fiction like it’s my job, I’ve come across so many authors who masterfully blend history with the vibrancy of young adult stories. One standout is Ruta Sepetys, whose books like 'Salt to the Sea' and 'Between Shades of Gray' are hauntingly beautiful, weaving real historical tragedies into gripping narratives that resonate with teens. Then there’s Elizabeth Wein, who specializes in wartime YA fiction—her 'Code Name Verity' is a heart-wrenching tale of friendship and espionage during WWII. Another favorite of mine is Libba Bray, especially her 'Diviners' series, which mixes 1920s America with supernatural elements, making history feel alive and thrilling. For something lighter but equally immersive, Robin LaFevers’ 'His Fair Assassin' trilogy is a fantastic blend of medieval politics and assassin nuns—yes, you read that right! And let’s not forget Stacey Lee, whose books like 'The Downstairs Girl' showcase underrepresented voices in history with such warmth and wit. These authors don’t just write about the past; they make it pulse with relevance for today’s readers.

Who Are The Best Publishers For Young Adult Historical Fiction?

4 Answers2025-07-07 00:09:19
As someone who devours young adult historical fiction like candy, I have a deep appreciation for publishers who consistently deliver quality. Bloomsbury stands out for gems like 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak, blending poignant history with YA appeal. Scholastic is another powerhouse, responsible for classics like 'The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas,' which tackle heavy themes with grace. Then there’s Penguin Teen, whose catalog includes 'Salt to the Sea,' a masterclass in wartime storytelling. HarperTeen also deserves a shoutout for publishing 'Out of the Easy,' a richly atmospheric novel set in 1950s New Orleans. For indie lovers, Chronicle Books offers unique titles like 'The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue,' mixing history with humor and heart. Each publisher brings something distinct to the table, whether it’s meticulous research, emotional depth, or innovative storytelling. If you’re a fan of YA historical fiction, these publishers should be on your radar.

What Makes Young Adult Historical Fiction So Popular?

4 Answers2025-07-16 07:24:30
As someone who’s been immersed in young adult historical fiction for years, I think its popularity stems from how it blends the excitement of history with relatable teen experiences. Books like 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak or 'Code Name Verity' by Elizabeth Wein transport readers to pivotal moments in history while focusing on young protagonists who are navigating love, loss, and identity. These stories make history feel personal and immediate, rather than just a dry list of dates and events. Another reason is the emotional depth these novels offer. They often tackle themes like resilience, rebellion, and self-discovery, which resonate deeply with young readers. For example, 'Salt to the Sea' by Ruta Sepetys sheds light on lesser-known historical tragedies through the eyes of teens, making the past feel urgent and relevant. The genre also allows for creative storytelling—mixing real events with fictional characters gives authors the freedom to explore 'what if' scenarios while staying grounded in truth. Lastly, young adult historical fiction often serves as a gateway to learning. Readers might pick up 'Wolf by Wolf' by Ryan Graudin for its thrilling alternate history premise, but they’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of World War II. It’s history disguised as adventure, and that’s a formula that’s hard to resist.

How To Write Young Adult Historical Fiction Like A Pro?

4 Answers2025-07-16 07:19:21
Writing young adult historical fiction is all about balancing authenticity with relatability. I love diving into research to get the period details just right—whether it’s the clothing, slang, or social norms. But it’s equally important to make the characters feel modern in their emotions and struggles. Books like 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak and 'Code Name Verity' by Elizabeth Wein nail this by blending historical accuracy with deeply personal narratives. Another key is pacing. YA readers crave momentum, so I avoid info-dumps and weave historical context naturally into dialogue or action. For example, 'Salt to the Sea' by Ruta Sepetys uses short, intense chapters to keep tension high while immersing readers in WWII’s lesser-known tragedies. Also, don’t shy away from tough themes—YA audiences appreciate honesty. 'I Must Betray You' by Ruta Sepetys tackles Cold War Romania with brutal realism but keeps the protagonist’s voice fiercely hopeful. Lastly, read widely in the genre to see how others balance history and heart.

Can You Recommend Young Adult Historical Fiction With Strong Heroines?

4 Answers2025-07-16 17:37:03
As someone who devours historical fiction like it's my job, I'm always on the lookout for YA books with fierce female leads. One that immediately comes to mind is 'The Cruel Prince' by Holly Black, which blends historical elements with fantasy in a way that feels fresh and exciting. The protagonist, Jude, is a masterclass in resilience and cunning, navigating a treacherous world with intelligence and grit. Another favorite is 'The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue' by Mackenzi Lee, featuring a strong-willed sister who refuses to be sidelined in her brother’s adventure. For something more grounded in real history, 'Code Name Verity' by Elizabeth Wein is a heart-wrenching tale of friendship and bravery during WWII. The heroine’s strength lies not just in her physical courage but in her unwavering loyalty and sharp mind. These books offer a mix of fantastical and real historical settings, but they all share heroines who defy expectations and leave a lasting impression.
Explore and read good novels for free
Free access to a vast number of good novels on GoodNovel app. Download the books you like and read anywhere & anytime.
Read books for free on the app
SCAN CODE TO READ ON APP
DMCA.com Protection Status