Faces of the Dead by Suzanne Weyn is a richly imagined young adult historical fantasy that reimagines one of history’s most fascinating eras—the glittering court of 18th-century France.
 
When 16-year-old Marie-Thérèse, the daughter of Marie Antoinette, switches places with a servant girl for a taste of freedom, she has no idea how her life will change. Paris is simmering with revolution, and outside the palace walls, danger grows with every passing day. What begins as an adventure quickly turns into a fight for survival as Marie-Thérèse navigates betrayal, rebellion, and love while hiding her true identity.
 
With its blend of historical detail, romance, and thrilling suspense, Faces of the Dead delivers a captivating “what if” story that fans of royal dramas and alternate history will devour. Perfect for readers who loved The Red Queen, Grave Mercy, and A Great and Terrible Beauty, this novel blends fact and fantasy into a dramatic, heart-pounding read.
 
💡 Why You’ll Love It
A fresh, imaginative twist on the life of Marie Antoinette’s daughter
Perfect blend of royal drama, romance, and historical intrigue
Themes of identity, freedom, and survival make it both exciting and thought-provoking
Ideal for readers who enjoy strong female leads in historical settings
 
🎯 Perfect For
Teen readers (12–18) who enjoy historical fiction with a fantasy or alternate-history twist
Fans of The Royal Diaries, Philippa Gregory YA novels, and The Luxe series
Readers who love royal stories filled with drama, romance, and danger
Teachers and librarians looking for engaging YA historical fiction