Historical Fiction: 8 Engaging Historical Fiction Reads

Historical fiction often carries an undeserved stigma. Mistakenly lumped with dry textbooks relegated to the forgotten corners of libraries, this genre offers a vibrant and captivating method of delving into history. It doesn’t just narrate the nation’s past but also highlights the experiences of women within it. With a simple turn of a page, readers can immerse themselves in pivotal moments such as the fight for women’s suffrage, the lively era of the 1920s, the peak of the Civil Rights Movement, or the prelude to war in America. Moreover, historical fiction provides a platform to explore the often-overlooked narratives of remarkable women like Emily Roebling, Mary McLeod Bethune, and Clementine Churchill.

Venturing into the realm of historical fiction may seem daunting, but fear not! We’ve compiled a list of titles to kickstart your journey into historical literature, just in time for Women’s History Month. This selection introduces you to acclaimed authors like Kristin Hannah, Fiona Davis, and Marie Benedict, alongside their fictional and real-life characters, blurring the lines between fiction and nonfiction.

The Women by Kristin Hannah: Hannah is celebrated for her thought-provoking narratives of women trailblazers. In her latest work, readers follow a young nursing student who joins the Army Nurse Corps during the Vietnam War. While preparing for the rigors of the war zone demands resilience, it’s the challenges upon returning home that truly test her mettle.
Unbecoming a Lady: The Forgotten Sluts and Shrews Who Shaped America by Therese Oneill: Oneill skillfully brings to light the remarkable lives of 18 unconventional women from the 19th and early 20th centuries. These individuals, dubbed with derogatory labels like “slut” or “shrew,” defied societal norms with audacity, courage, and a disregard for traditional expectations.
The Engineer’s Wife by Tracey Enerson Wood: This novel centers on Emily Roebling, a pivotal figure in the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge, whose contributions have often been overshadowed. As she navigates her role in building this iconic structure, Emily also emerges as a leader in the suffragette movement in New York City.
Summer at Tiffany by Marjorie Hart: Set in 1945, this book follows two university students, Marjorie Jacobson and Marty Garett, as they secure positions as pages at Tiffany & Co. Despite facing rejection from major department stores, their determination leads them to become the first women to work on the sales floor.
The Dollhouse by Fiona Davis: Davis paints a vivid portrait of the Barbizon Hotel for Women in 1950s Manhattan, a hub for ambitious women aspiring to carve their paths. Through dual timelines, the novel intertwines the lives of its residents, bridging the gap between past and present aspirations.
Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly: Adapted into a major motion picture, this book chronicles the invaluable contributions of Black women mathematicians at NASA during the space race. Their expertise played a crucial role in propelling the nation’s achievements amidst the backdrop of WWII, the Cold War, and the Civil Rights Movement.
The First Ladies by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray: Benedict and Murray depict an unlikely friendship between Eleanor Roosevelt and Mary McLeod Bethune during a tumultuous period in American history. As Eleanor seeks solace and purpose, their bond deepens amidst the challenges of civil rights activism and personal turmoil.
Fast Girls by Elise Hooper: Delve into the inspiring journey of the first women’s Olympic team representing the USA in the 1936 Berlin Games. Hailing from diverse backgrounds, these athletes defy societal norms and strive for greatness against the backdrop of pre-war America.

These novels not only entertain but also educate, offering a nuanced glimpse into the diverse experiences of women throughout history. Dive into these captivating tales and celebrate the untold stories of resilience, courage, and triumph this Women’s History Month.

_{Repurposed article originally published in Scary Mommy}