Best Renaissance Historical Fiction Books for Teens & Young Adults of 2025

That Self-Same Metal is a thrilling YA fantasy book that will captivate fans of Holly Black and Justina Ireland. The protagonist, Joan Sands, is a talented craftswoman who has a magical ability to control metal. When brutal Fae attacks increase in Shakespearean London, she gets drawn into political intrigue in both the human and Fae worlds. The book is full of swashbuckling action, romance, and the sights and sounds of Shakespeare's London. The author seamlessly weaves together history, fantasy, culture, magic, and love. Overall, That Self-Same Metal is a spectacular debut that is impossible to put down and a groundbreaking addition to the fantasy genre.

The Shakespeare Stealer is a delightful adventure full of humor and heart set in Elizabethan England. The story follows Widge, an orphan with a rare talent for shorthand, who is ordered to steal Shakespeare's play "Hamlet" by his fearsome master. As he works his way into the heart of the Globe Theatre, where Shakespeare's players perform, Widge is torn between his loyalty to his master and his new friends. This fast-moving historical novel introduces an important era with casual familiarity and excels in the lively depictions of Elizabethan stagecraft and street life. Overall, readers will enjoy this gleeful romp through olde England.

The Apprentice by Pilar Molina Llorente is a captivating art fiction book for teens and young adults. The story is set in Renaissance Florence and revolves around thirteen-year-old apprentice Arduino, whose dreams of becoming a painter are threatened by the jealousy of his Maestro, Cosimo di Forlç. The book expertly weaves together themes of ambition, loyalty, and betrayal, making it hard to put down. The School Library Journal describes it as engrossing, a sentiment that this reviewer wholeheartedly agrees with. Overall, The Apprentice is a must-read for anyone who loves historical fiction and coming-of-age stories.

"Risuko: A Kunoichi Tale" is an intriguing historical adventure fiction appropriate for young adult and middle-grade readers. Set in Japan during the sixteenth century, the story follows Kano Murasaki, nicknamed Risuko (Squirrel), a young girl who is more comfortable climbing trees than being on the ground. The plot revolves around her journey to discovering who she truly is, and whether she can change the outcome of a game where the board is the whole nation of Japan. The book is filled with secrets, female warriors and lots of historical details that make the setting come alive. Overall, "Risuko" is a unique and well-written book that is definitely worth reading."

The Night Portrait by Laura Morelli is a captivating historical fiction novel that takes readers on a journey through time, following the stories of two women separated by 500 years and united by one of Leonardo da Vinci's most famous paintings. The dual timeline narrative, set in Milan in 1492 and Munich in 1939, tells the tale of Cecilia Gallerani, the Duke of Milan's mistress, and Edith Becker, an art conservator forced to hand over a priceless painting to Hans Frank, the Butcher of Poland. This gripping and emotional novel, inspired by true events, is a must-read for fans of historical fiction who enjoy stories of courage, resilience, and the power of art to transcend time and adversity.

The Second Mrs. Gioconda by E.L. Konigsburg is a captivating art fiction book for teens and young adults. The book revolves around a riddle as enigmatic as the Mona Lisa's smile: why did Leonardo da Vinci devote three years to a painting of the second wife of an unimportant merchant when all the nobles of Europe were begging for a portrait by his hand? The intricate ways in which three lives intertwine hold the key to this historical puzzle. Konigsburg's masterful storytelling creates an intriguing answer to the mystery behind the most famous painting of all time.

"Doomed Queen Anne" by Carolyn Meyer is the third novel in the award-winning Young Royals series. The book tells the true story of Anne Boleyn, who used her wiles to win the heart of King Henry VIII and become his new queen. However, Anne's ambition proved to be her fatal flaw. Meyer's masterful writing skillfully captures Anne's journey from an awkward girl to the dramatic moments before her death. The book is an engrossing read that is both educational and entertaining, making it a great addition to any young adult's historical fiction collection.

Queen's Own Fool by Jane Yolen and Robert Harris is a historical fiction book that follows the story of Nicola, a traveling player turned jester to Mary, Queen of Scots. Nicola's quick wit and sharp tongue set her apart from the fawning nobles, and as Mary faces confrontations with rebellious lords and devious advisors, Nicola remains by her side. This book is based deeply in fact and full of detail, making it a great read for fans of historical sagas. Overall, Queen's Own Fool is a top-notch historical fiction book that seamlessly weaves fiction and fact together to tell Mary's tragic story.

The Adventures of Todd Tuttle: The Medallion is a thrilling science fiction book about two teenage rivals who are transported across the galaxy and must work together to get back home. Trey Nace creates an entertaining story filled with Greek myths and legends that come to life. The friendship that develops between Todd and Max while they face danger and evil is heartwarming. The book is also unique in its Christian Family Fiction genre for teens and young adults. Overall, the book is a great read for those who enjoy science fiction and adventure.

The Wild Queen: The Days and Nights of Mary, Queen of Scots (Young Royals) by Carolyn Meyer is a captivating European historical fiction book for teens and young adults. The novel presents Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots, as a relatable, multidimensional woman who deals with common adolescent problems despite her royal responsibilities. Meyer's modern voice makes complicated history accessible and intriguing, covering the scheming and rivalries of Scotland. The book is a must-read before seeing the major motion picture starring Saoirse Ronan and Margot Robbie. Meyer's masterful storytelling and relatable protagonist make The Wild Queen a riveting and unique read.