Best European Historical Fiction Books for Teens & Young Adults of 2026

Chain of Thorns is the thrilling conclusion to Cassandra Clare's Last Hours series. The story follows Cordelia and James as they navigate their crumbling marriage and the new threat to London from the Prince of Hell, Belial. Along with their friends, they must face their own secrets and trust each other to save their city and families from Belial's deadly army. The book is filled with action, adventure, and fantasy that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Overall, Chain of Thorns is a must-read for fans of the Shadowhunters world and will not disappoint.

Salt to the Sea is a gripping historical fiction novel that tells the story of four refugees during World War II, who are each haunted by their past and desperately seeking safety. As they converge on a ship, the Wilhelm Gustloff, promises of safety and freedom are made, but not all promises can be kept. The book has won several awards and features exclusive interviews with Wilhelm Gustloff survivors and experts. Ruta Sepetys is a master of historical fiction, and Salt to the Sea is a haunting, heartbreaking, and altogether gorgeous novel that is one of the best young-adult novels to appear in a very long time.

I Must Betray You is a gripping historical thriller by Ruta Sepetys, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Salt to the Sea and Between Shades of Gray. Set in communist Romania in 1989, the novel follows the story of Cristian Florescu, a seventeen-year-old boy who is blackmailed by the secret police to become an informer. Cristian risks everything to unmask the truth behind the regime, give voice to fellow Romanians, and expose to the world what is happening in his country. The book is a haunting reminder of a nation defined by silence, pain, and the unwavering conviction of the human spirit. Highly recommended for fans of historical mysteries and thrillers.

"Between Shades of Gray" by Ruta Sepetys is a heart-wrenching and haunting novel that tells the story of a Lithuanian family torn apart by Soviet officers during World War II. The fifteen-year-old protagonist, Lina, along with her mother and younger brother, is forced onto a crowded train and sent to a Siberian work camp, where they must fight for survival. Lina finds solace in her art, embedding clues in her drawings to help her father find them. The novel is beautifully written and deeply felt, making it an important book that deserves the widest possible readership. Overall, "Between Shades of Gray" is a must-read for anyone interested in historical fiction and a moving portrayal of the human spirit's resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.

The Infernal Devices trilogy is a #1 New York Times bestseller set in the secret world of Shadowhunters. This boxed set includes all three books with bonus content, maps, and gorgeous new covers. The series follows Tessa, Jem, and Will as they try to stop the villainous Mortmain and his clockwork army from destroying the Shadowhunters. The books are perfect for both newcomers and loyal fans of the series. Cassandra Clare's writing will enchant readers with her magical world and unforgettable characters. This collection is a must-have for all fantasy action and adventure book lovers.

Anatomy: A Love Story by Dana Schwartz is a thrilling gothic tale of mystery and romance set in 1817 Edinburgh. The story follows Hazel Sinnett, a lady who dreams of becoming a surgeon, and Jack Currer, a resurrection man who digs up corpses for a living. When their paths cross, they team up to uncover secrets buried in unmarked graves and the heart of Edinburgh society. Schwartz's intricate plot, precise hand in scattering clues, and well-developed characters make this book a must-read for fans of sword and sorcery fantasy books.

Immortality: A Love Story by Dana Schwartz is the much-awaited sequel to Anatomy: A Love Story. In Regency London, the protagonist, Hazel Sinnett, is struggling to come to terms with the events of the previous year and maintain Hawthornden Castle. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she is summoned to be the personal physician of Princess Charlotte, granddaughter of King George III. As Hazel is drawn into the glamorous and secretive world of the Companions to the Death, she realizes that her own future as a surgeon is in jeopardy. Schwartz's accomplished prose and intriguing central mystery make this book a must-read for fans of gothic romance.

Kingdom of the Wicked by Kerri Maniscalco is a dark fantasy novel that follows Emilia, a streghe witch, on her quest for vengeance after her twin sister is brutally murdered. With the help of Wrath, a prince of Hell, Emilia uncovers a series of women's murders on the island and delves into the forbidden world of dark magic. The novel's richly drawn characters, smart worldbuilding, and atmospheric writing make it a thrilling and wondrous tale. The immersive descriptions of food prepared in the family's restaurant and the infusion of magic into the plot make the book unique. Overall, Kingdom of the Wicked is an intoxicating and tightly plotted feast for the senses with a dramatic cliffhanger.

47 Days: The True Story of Two Teen Boys Defying Hitler's Reich by Annette Oppenlander is an intriguing and fascinating young adult adventure set in World War II Germany. The book follows the true story of Günter and Helmut, two best friends who defy Hitler's last propaganda command to send all 15 and 16-year-old boys to defend the fatherland. Instead, they spend 47 harrowing days as fugitives on the run, risking certain execution if caught. Oppenlander's writing captures the resilience of the human spirit and the strength of war children. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in history and the power of friendship.

Girl in the Blue Coat by Monica Hesse is a remarkable historical novel set in Amsterdam during World War II. The story follows Hanneke, a teenage girl who works on the black market delivering illegal goods to her customers. However, her life takes a dramatic turn when she is asked to find a Jewish girl who has gone missing. As she delves deeper into the search, she uncovers secrets that lead her to join the resistance and confront the horrors of the Nazi regime. Hesse's writing is beautiful and the plot is intricately woven, making Girl in the Blue Coat an exceptional read that portrays themes of love, loss, and bravery.