New
Royal-inspired YA reads for teens who love drama, royal balls & ALL the feels
By: Nahomy Ortiz-Garcia, Social Media Specialist
Dear teacher,
The time is now to send your teen readers on a trip back to the ballrooms of the Regency era, where scandal hides behind refined elegance, one wrong look can start a rumor, a single dance can change a future, and one secret can turn a whole season upside down.
If your students can’t get enough of the trappings of high-society drama and swoon-worthy romance, then these YA books are the perfect fit, whether you’re putting together a themed book display or searching for a fun hook that’ll get them interested in independent reading.
Why teachers love royal-inspired YA
Royal and Regency-inspired stories aren’t just entertaining, they’re also packed with classroom-friendly discussion themes like:
- Social expectations vs. personal identity
- Class systems and power dynamics
- Friendship, family pressures, and finding your independence
- Coming-of-age and difficult choices
Even better, these books tend to be fast-paced and accessible, which makes them great for reluctant readers seeking smart storytelling that’s easy to dive into.
Royal-inspired YA book recommendations
An Improbable Season by Rosalyn Eves
If you’re looking for a Regency story that goes beyond romance, An Improbable Season is it. The story follows three young women navigating their first London Season – and each of them have goals that don’t quite fit into society’s expectations.
Why teachers will love it: This is an excellent pick for students who enjoy stories about ambition, identity, and friendship, with plenty of romantic tension and social drama layered in.
Great for readers who like: stories of sisterhood, academic rivalries, and “dreams vs. duty” tension
Get TeachingBooks resources for An Improbable Season
Bellegarde by Jamie Lilac
A royal-inspired romcom, Bellegarde reimagines the energy of She’s All That in 18th-century Paris, blending high-stakes court drama with playful romance.
Beau Bellegarde makes a risky bet: if he can turn Evie Clément (a baker’s daughter who wants nothing to do with elite society) into the standout star of the Court Ball, he earns a fortune. The only problem? Evie has plans of her own, and she is not interested in being anyone’s project.
Why teachers will love it: It’s a fun gateway book for readers who love “makeover” plots and social climbing hijinks – and it still leaves room for discussions about class, agency, and reputation.
Great for readers who like: enemies-to-lovers, comedy, drama, and characters who find their confidence
Get TeachingBooks resources for Bellegarde
Witty in Pink by Erica George
This one is for students who love ballroom banter and romance that blooms from pure irritation.
Blythe has been avoiding Briggs Goswick for years (and for good reason). Unfortunately, he’s now back in her life, charming as ever and somehow even more complicated. But with her family’s finances on the line, she needs investors for a business venture – and Briggs happens to have the high-society access she needs. The catch? He’s broke too, and hiding secrets of his own.
Why teachers will love it: Perfect for book talks and teen readers who enjoy banter, high social stakes, and clever “we’re helping each other but I still hate you” setups.
Great for readers who like: frenemies-to-lovers, secret struggles, and humor
Sixteen Scandals by Sophie Jordan
This fast-paced Regency read feels like sneaking out of the house when you’re not supposed (and praying you don’t get caught).
On the night of her sixteenth birthday, Primrose is tired of being overlooked. When her parents delay her debut into society, she decides to make her own fun – so she puts on a mask and heads to Vauxhall Gardens for one unforgettable night. There, she meets a mysterious stranger who becomes her partner in mischief. But as secrets unravel, Prim realizes this night has the potential to change everything.
Why teachers will love it: Great for students who might be new to historical fiction but love romance with a side of adventure.
Great for readers who like: disguises, secret identities, and “one night changes everything” plot devices
Get TeachingBooks resources for Sixteen Scandals
Ways to use these books in your classroom or library
If you’re a teacher or school librarian looking to build engagement, try pairing this list with some TeachingBooks resources:
- Bellegarde Cultural Representation Reflection
- Sixteen Scandals Historical Fiction Multi-Leveled Lesson
- An Improbable Season Story Map Multi-Leveled Lesson
Ready to add these to student reading lists?👑📚
Once you’ve added these royally romantic YA titles to your Sora collection, your students will be able to borrow them instantly – anytime, anywhere.
All the swoony drama they can’t get enough of, right in your school’s own digital library. Happy reading!