Books about political intrigue

A Burning in the Bones is the pulse-pounding conclusion to Scott Reintgen’s bestselling Waxways series. In this final installment, Ren and Theo find themselves at the center of a political storm as they attempt to reform the corrupt system of Kathor. However, their plans are derailed by a mysterious and deadly plague that threatens to consume the city. With corpses appearing in strategic locations and magic itself under threat, the stakes have never been higher for the survivors of House Brood.

This epic finale is perfect for children and teens who love high-stakes fantasy and intricate world-building. Ideal for readers interested in political maneuvering, dark mysteries, and stories where the cost of survival is high. Parents will find this a great choice for fans of Leigh Bardugo or Sabaa Tahir, offering a sophisticated narrative that explores themes of power, corruption, and the strength of found family. It is an edge-of-your-seat adventure that rewards long-time followers of the series with a satisfying and intense resolution.

Highlights:

• The thrilling conclusion to the acclaimed Waxways trilogy.
• A complex blend of political intrigue and dark magical mystery.
• High-stakes action featuring a race against a city-wide plague.
• Deep exploration of loyalty, sacrifice, and the weight of leadership.

Clariel is a gripping epic fantasy adventure set in the beloved world of the Old Kingdom, six hundred years before the events of Sabriel. This dark and dazzling tale follows Clariel, a young woman who finds herself trapped in the stifling city of Belisaere. While her family is embroiled in political intrigue and royal plots, Clariel longs for the simple life of the forest. However, when a dangerous Free Magic creature begins terrorizing the city, Clariel is forced to confront a hidden sorcery within herself that is as dangerous as it is powerful.

Perfect for readers who love complex world-building and morally grey protagonists, this novel explores the heavy burden of destiny and the cost of power. It is an ideal choice for fans of high fantasy who enjoy stories about strong-willed heroines fighting against societal expectations. Garth Nix delivers a masterclass in atmosphere, making this a great choice for teenagers and adults alike who are looking for a sophisticated and intense reading experience.

Highlights:

• A deep dive into the origins of the Old Kingdom's magic and lore.
• A compelling, non-traditional protagonist struggling with her own nature.
• Richly detailed setting filled with sorcery, intrigue, and ancient creatures.
• Explores themes of autonomy, choice, and the dangers of unchecked ambition.

Step into the glittering and dangerous world of Renaissance France in My Contrary Mary, a royally entertaining reimagining of history. Mary, Queen of Scots, is the jewel of the French court, but she harbors a secret that could cost her everything: she is an Eðian, a shapeshifter who can turn into a mouse. In a kingdom where being different is a death sentence, Mary must navigate a "viper’s nest" of conspiracies, poison, and political traps alongside her betrothed, Francis. This book is perfect for children and teens who love historical fiction with a magical twist and a healthy dose of wit.

Ideal for readers interested in royal drama and romantic comedies, this novel turns history on its head with a clever sense of humor and high-stakes adventure. Fans of A Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue will find themselves captivated by the chemistry between Mary and Francis as they fight to protect their throne and their lives. It is a great choice for young adults looking for a story that balances lighthearted banter with intense emotional depth and world-building.

Highlights:

• A unique historical fantasy twist on the life of Mary, Queen of Scots.
• Engaging shapeshifter mythology set against the backdrop of the French court.
• A charming and high-stakes romance between Mary and her betrothed, Francis.
• Witty narration and a fast-paced plot filled with political intrigue.

My Lady Jane is a hilarious and irreverent reimagining of history that is perfect for readers who love fractured fairy tales and witty banter. In this version of Tudor England, Lady Jane Grey isn't just the 'Nine Days Queen'—she is a book-loving noblewoman forced into a marriage with Gifford, a man who spends his days as a horse. Together with a sickly King Edward and a cast of shapeshifting 'Eðians,' they must navigate a dangerous plot to steal the throne while dealing with their own magical secrets.

This book is an ideal choice for fans of The Princess Bride or anyone who enjoys historical fiction with a supernatural twist. The story balances high-stakes political intrigue with laugh-out-loud comedy and a sweet, slow-burn romance. It is a great choice for teenagers and adults alike who appreciate a story that does not take itself too seriously while still delivering a heart-pounding adventure. Readers interested in strong female leads and unique magical systems will find themselves captivated by this clever retelling.

Highlights:

• A comedic and magical retelling of the life of Lady Jane Grey.
• Features a unique world where humans can transform into animals.
• Perfect for fans of witty dialogue, historical satire, and lighthearted romance.
• Engaging multi-perspective storytelling from three distinct protagonists.

Of Flame and Fury is a high-octane young adult fantasy that combines the thrill of competitive racing with the intensity of a forbidden romance. Set on a volcanic island where phoenix racing is the ultimate sport, the story follows Kel Varra and her underdog team, the Crimson Howlers. Desperate for a win, Kel must team up with her arrogant rival, Coup, leading to a fiery dynamic that evolves from resentment to something much more dangerous. This debut novel is perfect for readers who love high-stakes competition, intricate world-building, and "enemies-to-lovers" tropes.

Ideal for fans of Fourth Wing or The Hunger Games, this book explores themes of ambition and betrayal against a backdrop of volatile magic and political scheming. As Kel uncovers a conspiracy involving a mysterious tech mogul, the stakes rise from winning a race to surviving a revolution. Parents looking for an engaging, fast-paced read for teens who enjoy "romantasy" will find this a compelling choice that balances action with emotional depth.

Highlights:

• Unique magic system centered around phoenix racing and ash-based technology.
• Compelling "enemies-to-lovers" romance with high emotional stakes.
• A fast-paced plot filled with political intrigue and shocking betrayals.
• Strong female protagonist leading a team of determined underdogs.

Winterkeep is the thrilling fourth installment in the beloved Graceling Realm series by Kristin Cashore. Set five years after the events of Bitterblue, this epic fantasy takes readers to a new land across the sea. Queen Bitterblue of Monsea must travel to the industrial nation of Winterkeep to investigate the mysterious disappearance of her envoys. There, she discovers a world of telepathic foxes, wondrous airships, and deep political corruption. This book is perfect for children and teens who love intricate world-building and strong, complex female leads.

Ideal for readers interested in political intrigue and high-stakes adventure, Winterkeep introduces Lovisa Cavenda, a fierce teenage girl caught between her powerful parents and her own moral compass. As Bitterblue and her companions navigate a landscape of secrets and tragedy, they must decide who to trust in a land where the environment itself is at risk. It is a great choice for fans of high fantasy who enjoy stories about identity, resilience, and the cost of power.

Highlights:

• Features a rich, new setting with unique technology and telepathic animals.
• Explores complex themes of grief, political ethics, and personal growth.
• Perfect for fans of the Graceling Realm series or readers who enjoy epic fantasy.
• Includes diverse characters and meaningful LGBTQ representation.

In the thrilling third installment of the Guardians of Dawn series, Princess Yulana—known as Yuli—finds herself at the center of a crumbling empire. With her grandfather’s death leaving the throne in question, Yuli must navigate a brewing civil war, a mysterious sleeping sickness, and a plague of hungry ghosts. As the Guardian of Wind, she is tasked with restoring balance to the Morning Realms, but the greatest challenge might be the Grand Game—a high-stakes political competition that will decide the future of her people and the entire empire.

This sweeping fantasy is perfect for children and teens who love East Asian-inspired world-building and stories of magical destiny. Readers who enjoy complex political maneuvering and high-stakes magic will be captivated by Yuli’s struggle to manage both demonic threats and the schemes of her former best friend turned rival, Kho. It is an ideal choice for fans of epic fantasy series like Shadow and Bone or Six of Crows, offering a rich blend of folklore, action, and emotional depth.

Highlights:

• A richly imagined East Asian-inspired fantasy world filled with spirits and folklore.
• High-stakes political intrigue centered around the mysterious Grand Game.
• A strong female protagonist balancing magical responsibilities with royal duty.
• Compelling character dynamics featuring a tense rivals-to-allies relationship.
• The exciting continuation of the Guardians of Dawn saga.