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There’s something so special about historical fiction that brings real women to life on the page.
I’ve always been fascinated by stories that dive into the lives of women who actually existed—those who made history in ways big and small, but whose stories aren’t always as well known as they should be.
When I read these books, it’s like getting a glimpse into the past, seeing through the eyes of incredible women who faced their own unique struggles, triumphs, and heartaches.
It’s honestly such a rewarding experience to learn about their lives while getting lost in a well-written story.
So, I thought I’d share some of the best historical fiction novels based on real women—these stories have really stuck with me, and I’m sure they’ll do the same for you!
1. The Woman With the Cure by Lynn Cullen
This one tells the incredible story of Dorothy Horstmann, a doctor who helped stop a polio pandemic in the ’40s and ’50s. Polio was terrifying back then, affecting so many, especially kids.
Dorothy wasn’t focused on competing with her colleagues for the vaccine fame—she just wanted to cure the disease.
But her discovery leads to some tough decisions about who gets credit and how much is sacrificed for the greater good.
It’s a story of determination, science, and tough choices. I love how Dorothy’s personal drive and dedication shine through here. It’s a must-read for anyone into real-life historical stories!
2. American Spy by Lauren Wilkinson
Set during the Cold War, this one follows Marie Mitchell, an FBI agent who gets swept into a morally gray mission to spy on Thomas Sankara, the president of Burkina Faso.
As she falls in love with him, Marie’s faced with some tough decisions about loyalty and betrayal.
The mix of espionage, romance, and family drama was such a compelling read.
I really appreciated how complex Marie’s journey was—she’s managing her own career, identity, and heart.
3. Diva by Daisy Goodwin
This book takes a deep dive into the life of Maria Callas, the famous opera singer, and her scandalous relationship with Aristotle Onassis.
Maria’s voice was legendary, but her personal life was a rollercoaster of passion, heartbreak, and fame.
When Onassis suddenly leaves her for Jackie Kennedy, Maria finds herself crushed.
This novel paints a vivid picture of her struggles, triumphs, and the woman behind the iconic soprano.
I was hooked on how it showed her strength despite everything life threw at her.
4. The Paris Bookseller by Kerri Maher
This one’s for book lovers!
Sylvia Beach opens Shakespeare and Company in Paris, and her connection with James Joyce leads her to publish his controversial novel Ulysses, risking everything.
The book explores how Sylvia’s bookstore became a hub for literary legends and how Ulysses changed the course of literature.
It was such a charming read, especially with the peek into literary history.
If you’re a fan of books about books, this one’s a gem.
5. Someone Always Nearby by Susan Wittig Albert
This is an intimate look into Georgia O’Keeffe’s life through her relationship with Maria Chabot, a woman who helped manage O’Keeffe’s household and became a close confidante.
The book paints a vivid picture of O’Keeffe’s life in the New Mexico desert, her art, and her personal struggles.
It’s a beautiful story of friendship, creativity, and the bonds that form in unexpected ways.
The historical details made it so immersive, and I felt like I got to know Georgia in a new way.
6. Sister Mother Warrior by Vanessa Riley
This book is based on the true stories of Marie-Claire Bonheur and Gran Toya, two powerful women who played key roles in the Haitian Revolution.
It’s a sweeping tale of love, strength, and resistance against colonialism. Both Marie-Claire and Gran Toya show such resilience and determination—it’s an inspiring, emotional read.
I love how it celebrates these women’s contributions to history that are often overlooked. Definitely an empowering story!
7. Belle Greene by Alexandra Lapierre
Belle da Costa Greene’s life is fascinating!
She was the director of J.P. Morgan’s private library in New York and hid her African American heritage to climb the social ladder.
This book dives into her battles with identity, racism, and the complex world of New York’s elite in the early 1900s.
It’s a story of ambition, secrets, and survival in a time of strict social boundaries.
I found her story incredibly moving—she was a trailblazer in a world that wasn’t kind to women of color.
8. By Her Own Design by Piper Huguley
This book brings to life the incredible true story of Ann Lowe, the Black designer behind Jacqueline Kennedy’s wedding dress.
Ann faced racism and personal struggles but still achieved greatness in the fashion world.
The book moves between her childhood in Jim Crow Alabama and her rise to fame in New York, highlighting the obstacles she overcame.
It’s a powerful story of resilience and talent, and I found Ann’s determination really inspiring.
I loved how it showcased a side of history we don’t hear enough about.
9. The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory
This novel is a fascinating look at the Boleyn sisters, especially Mary, who first catches the eye of King Henry VIII.
As Mary’s sister Anne rises to power, Mary must survive love, betrayal, and her family’s ambition.
It’s a juicy, dramatic read full of palace intrigue, and Mary’s story is so compelling as she tries to carve out her own life.
It’s full of passion, rivalry, and heartache, which makes it one of those historical novels you can’t put down.
10. The First Ladies by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
This book is about the unlikely friendship between First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and civil rights activist Mary McLeod Bethune, two women who fought for change in their own ways.
Their partnership helped push civil rights to the forefront during a pivotal time in history.
It’s an inspiring read about friendship, leadership, and fighting for what’s right.
I really appreciated how it highlighted the strength and determination of these two women—it’s a story that deserves to be told!
11. The Great Mrs. Elias by Barbara Chase-Riboud
This novel tells the story of Hannah Elias, a wealthy Black woman in the early 1900s, who’s thrust into the spotlight after a murder investigation.
She made her fortune through investments, but when her past secrets come to light, things get complicated.
It’s a gripping read about ambition, secrets, and the consequences of success. I found Hannah’s determination to survive really inspiring.
12. Island Queen by Vanessa Riley
Based on the real-life Dorothy Kirwan Thomas, a free woman of color who became a powerful landowner in the West Indies.
Dorothy’s rise to wealth was incredible, and this book shows her navigating the racism and sexism of the time.
It’s such a powerful story of resilience, and I loved how it shed light on a woman whose story we don’t often hear. A must-read for fans of historical fiction!
13. The Lost Journals of Sacajewea by Debra Magpie Earling
Imagine if Sacajewea had kept journals of her experiences before she joined Lewis and Clark.
This book gives her a voice in a way that history hasn’t, and it explores her struggles, her wisdom, and her survival.
The writing is so lyrical and emotional—Earling really brings Sacajewea’s life to the forefront in a way I hadn’t seen before.
14. Blonde by Joyce Carol Oates
This is Oates’ reimagining of Marilyn Monroe’s life, which delves into the trauma and complexities behind the famous icon.
It’s heartbreaking and shows the side of Monroe we often don’t see—the real woman behind the celebrity.
It’s a deep, emotional read that left me reflecting on the costs of fame and how often we forget the person behind the public persona.
15. The Queen of Sugar Hill: A Novel of Hattie McDaniel by ReShonda Tate
Hattie McDaniel, the first Black woman to win an Oscar, lived a life full of challenges and triumphs, and this book brings her story to light.
It’s fascinating to see her battle racism in Hollywood and rise to fame despite everything.
I really admired her strength and perseverance, and this book made me respect her even more.
16. The Chanel Sisters by Judithe Little
This one’s all about Coco Chanel and her sister, Antoinette, and their journey from poverty to building an empire.
It’s a great look at the price of ambition, sibling dynamics, and the making of a fashion legend.
I loved how the book focused on both sisters’ journeys—not just Coco’s—which made it an even more compelling story.
17. The Bohemians by Jasmin Darznik
Set in the roaring ’20s, this one follows Dorothea Lange, a photographer, and her close friendship with Caroline Lee, a Chinese-American artist.
Their lives intertwine with the cultural and artistic revolution of the time, which it a fascinating historical read.
It was such a refreshing take on the women who influenced art and culture during that era.
18. The Collector’s Daughter by Gill Paul
This novel explores the life of Lady Evelyn Herbert, who was part of the team that uncovered King Tutankhamun’s tomb.
But it’s not just about history; it’s about the personal costs of such discoveries and the curse that followed.
It’s a mix of adventure and mystery that kept me hooked the whole time.
19. The Other Alcott by Elise Hooper
This book brings the lesser-known story of May Alcott, Louisa’s sister, to the forefront.
May was an artist in her own right, and this novel explores her dreams, struggles, and relationship with Louisa.
I loved seeing her character fleshed out more and seeing how the Alcott sisters’ lives were so intertwined.
It’s a lovely tribute to the often-forgotten voices in literary history.
20. A Right Worthy Woman by Ruth P. Watson
This one’s a powerful read about Maggie Lena Walker, the first Black woman to run a bank in the U.S.
Set in Virginia’s Black Wall Street, Maggie’s journey is all about ambition, resilience, and breaking down barriers.
The book really showcases her strength as she fights against systemic racism and sexism in a world that tried to keep her down.
I loved how Maggie’s story is both personal and professional—her triumphs are so inspiring, and it’s a reminder of how real change happens when we challenge the status quo. Definitely a story worth reading!
If you’re looking for a book that will inspire and transport you, any of these are a must-read!
Happy reading, and I hope these stories leave you just as inspired as they left me!
Do you have a favorite historical fiction book based on a real woman? I’d love to hear about it in the comments!
And don’t forget to share this post with your friends who are passionate about history and strong women!
