Books About Palace Intrigue

The Best Palace Intrigue Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about palace intrigue? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

The Shortlist

Our 7 Favorite Books About Palace Intrigue

The Apothecary Diaries, Vol. 1
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$1248
Chapter Book · Ages 13–17 · 2017

The Apothecary Diaries, Vol. 1

A servant skilled in herbal medicine breaks a palace curse and lands amid court intrigue.

176 pages
4.5 Goodreads · 39,871 ratings
$12.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Maomao, a young woman trained in herbal medicine, is stuck working as a lowly servant in the emperor's inner palace. When she quietly breaks a "curse" afflicting the imperial heirs, she catches the eye of the handsome eunuch Jinshi, who promotes her to food taster. Soon her knowledge of poisons and remedies draws her into one palace mystery after another.
The Apothecary Diaries, Vol. 7
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$1248
Chapter Book · 2020

The Apothecary Diaries, Vol. 7

A palace servant uncovers a deadly plot, risking everything to unravel its secrets.

194 pages
4.5 Goodreads · 10,839 ratings
$12.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Maomao, a palace servant skilled in herbal medicine, is thrust into a web of intrigue as she rises to food taster. After saving Jinshi, she discovers a conspiracy deeply rooted in the palace. With her sharp mind and patience, Maomao must navigate treacherous waters and face the menacing La Kan. Can she unravel the mystery without losing herself in the process?
The Apothecary Diaries, Vol. 6
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$1248
Chapter Book · 2020

The Apothecary Diaries, Vol. 6

A palace servant uncovers secrets while aiding a mysterious mission beyond palace walls.

178 pages
4.6 Goodreads · 11,774 ratings
$12.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Maomao, a skilled herbalist turned food taster, is thrust into palace intrigue when tasked with disguising the enigmatic Jinshi for a secret mission. As they venture beyond the palace, Maomao's role becomes more than just a disguise. Their journey leads them to the pleasure district, raising questions about Jinshi's true intentions. Is this mission merely a personal escapade, or is there a deeper mystery lurking? With her wits and courage, Maomao must navigate this perilous path, where every step could unravel secrets that threaten the very heart of the empire.
The Apothecary Diaries, Vol. 4
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$1248
Chapter Book · 2019

The Apothecary Diaries, Vol. 4

A former palace servant uncovers a poisoning plot amidst court intrigue.

194 pages
4.5 Goodreads · 14,623 ratings
$12.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Maomao, once a palace servant and now a skilled herbalist, is drawn back into the heart of courtly chaos. Tasked with unraveling a sinister poisoning attempt on the Virtuous Consort, she must navigate a web of secrets and deception. As she delves deeper, Maomao faces the challenge of identifying the true mastermind behind the plot. Will her unique skills and sharp wit be enough to uncover the truth and protect those she cares about? Dive into a world of mystery and intrigue where every clue could lead to danger.
The Apothecary Diaries, Vol. 3
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$1248
Chapter Book · 2018

The Apothecary Diaries, Vol. 3

A herbalist's palace fame leads to freedom and a new mystery.

194 pages· 8,066 words
4.5 Goodreads · 16,699 ratings
$12.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Maomao, a young herbalist, gains unexpected fame after a palace banquet. Her newfound notoriety grants her a brief escape to the pleasure district, where she reunites with family and friends. However, her return is shadowed by a new enigma. What mystery awaits her beyond the palace walls, and how will it intertwine with her past? As Maomao navigates this puzzling world, she must unravel secrets that could change everything. Will her skills and wit be enough to solve the mystery that awaits?
The Apothecary Diaries, Vol. 2
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$1248
Chapter Book · Ages 13–17 · 2018

The Apothecary Diaries, Vol. 2

A servant's herbal skills unravel palace secrets and intrigue.

178 pages· 5,763 words· Est. 43 min read
4.5 Goodreads · 20,261 ratings
$12.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: In a palace filled with secrets, a clever servant named Maomao uses her herbal knowledge to break a mysterious curse on the imperial heirs. Her success propels her from drudgery to the role of food taster, catching the eye of the enigmatic eunuch Jinshi. But as Maomao navigates her new position, she discovers that Jinshi has deeper plans for her talents. With each potion brewed, Maomao finds herself entangled in a web of palace mysteries. Can she uncover the truth before it's too late, or will the palace's secrets consume her?
Happily Ever After
Sale price
$1498
Chapter Book · Ages 13–+ · 2015

Happily Ever After

Discover untold stories of love and intrigue in the world of the Selection series.

416 pages· 81,438 words· Est. 7.5 hour read
4.0 Goodreads · 83,870 ratings
$15.99Save 6%
Paperback
Summary: Explore the hidden tales of Prince Maxon and Amberly before their destinies unfold. Witness the Selection from a guard's perspective and a girl's unexpected romance. This collection unveils four novellas, including exclusive print-only stories, and bonus content that enriches the beloved Selection series. Dive into the secrets and emotions that shaped the characters you love, and uncover new layers of courtly intrigue and romance. What choices led them to their fates, and what unseen forces were at play? This companion is essential for fans eager to delve deeper into the enchanting world of Illéa.