by 
I’ve always had a soft spot for historical fiction, especially when it features strong female protagonists.
There’s something incredibly inspiring about reading stories where women are at the heart of history, facing obstacles that make you think, “Wow, how did they do that?”
Every time I pick up a book like this, I find myself completely hooked—whether the character is fighting for her place in the world or standing up for what’s right.
These books always make me feel so empowered, like if these women could take on the world back then, surely I can tackle anything today!
So, I wanted to share some of my absolute favorite historical fiction novels with strong female leads.
Trust me, once you get into these stories, you’ll be rooting for these women just as much as I have!
1. Forbidden City by Vanessa Hua
This book takes you through the wild journey of a 16-year-old girl, Mei, who gets swept into the power games of China’s Communist Party and ends up as Mao Zedong’s lover.
It’s an intense ride through ambition, loyalty, and the brutal realities of a dictatorship.
What really struck me was Mei’s internal conflict between her desire for a better life and the harsh truths she has to face.
It’s a story that sticks with you, making you think about power and ideals.
2. By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult
If you like stories that mix history and strong female voices, this one’s for you.
The book flips between Melina, a modern playwright, and Emilia Bassano, who might have been Shakespeare’s true muse.
It’s fascinating how both women are so connected through time, especially since Emilia’s talents have been overshadowed by history.
I loved how the story explores what happens when women’s voices are erased or ignored. It’s really empowering!
3. The Lioness by Chris Bohjalian
This one is a total page-turner. A Hollywood honeymoon gone horribly wrong in Tanzania? Yes, please!
The drama builds up in such an exciting way, as it combines fame, corruption, and survival in a world that’s changing fast.
I really liked how the book digs deep into the characters’ flaws and emotions and that made the whole thriller feel like more than just a story about survival.
It’s got plenty of twists and turns that keep you guessing.
Also See: 20 Best American Historical Fiction Books to Devour This Weekend
4. Woman of Light by Kali Fajardo-Anstine
Luz Lopez is such a compelling character.
This book follows her through her struggles to reconnect with her Indigenous roots in the American West, and it’s also packed with powerful imagery and magical realism.
What hit me the hardest was how it touches on survival, identity, and the ways history tries to erase cultures.
5. The Volcano Daughters by Gina María Balibrera
This book is heavy but so gripping.
It tells the story of two sisters trying to escape the aftermath of a brutal genocide in El Salvador.
The way it combines personal trauma with political history really pulls you in.
The folklore elements also add this haunting beauty to the story, and the bond between the sisters is so powerful.
It’s a tough read, but it’s definitely worth it for how it shines a light on such an important historical moment.
6. Daughters of Shandong by Eve J. Chung
The Ang sisters’ journey is one of resilience and strength, even when everything around them falls apart.
This book dives into their fight for survival during the Chinese Communist Revolution, and the emotional weight of their struggle is hard to ignore.
I really appreciated how the story shows how, even in the darkest times, these women find ways to hold on to themselves and their power.
Related: 20 African Historical Fiction Books I Fell In Love With (And You Will Too!)
7. The Sweetest Fruits by Monique Truong
This one had me hooked with its mix of history, mystery, and female strength.
It’s about the women who were a big part of Lafcadio Hearn’s life, but their stories often get forgotten.
The way the book brings their voices to the forefront—each with their own struggles and dreams—was something I really loved.
It’s a beautiful blend of love, sacrifice, and the push for independence that I think a lot of people will relate to.
8. The Seventh Veil of Salome by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Set in 1950s Hollywood, this novel is a rollercoaster of scandal, fame, and drama.
Vera, a Mexican actress, finds herself tangled in a rivalry for stardom, and it’s fascinating to see how the book ties her story with the legendary Salome.
The behind-the-scenes look at Hollywood’s dark side is so compelling, and the whole vibe of the book made me feel like I was there in the 50s.
9. Malas by Marcela Fuentes
This debut novel has so much heart and drama.
It’s about Lulu Muñoz, who’s got a messy, chaotic life, but she’s determined to fight for herself and her family.
There’s a supernatural twist with a curse that hangs over her family, which made the book even more intense.
It’s a rollercoaster of emotions, but it also makes you think about legacy, trauma, and how people can break free from the past.
Definitely an unforgettable read.
Related: 20 Best Historical Fiction Books That Are Perfect for Book Clubs
10. The Magnolia Palace by Fiona Davis
This dual-timeline story is packed with secrets and scandals.
In 1919, Lillian Carter, a former artist’s model, takes a job at the Frick mansion, only to get caught up in stolen jewels, family drama, and a murder mystery.
Decades later, model Veronica Weber discovers hidden messages in the mansion-turned-museum, which leads her and a charming intern on a hunt to solve a long-buried crime.
If you haven’t picked up any of these yet, I highly recommend adding them to your to-read list.
They’re the kind of books that stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page!
What’s your favorite historical fiction book with a strong female lead?
Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to share this list with fellow book lovers who appreciate an inspiring heroine!
Read Next: 23 Historical Fiction Books With Romance To Fall In Love With
