Celebrate International Women's Day with gripping historical fiction centred on the lives of women.
The Celestial Wife by Leslie Howard
In 1964, 15-year-old Daisy is told who she'll marry in her strict Mormon community in BC. As she secretly explores art, music, and independence, she questions her fate. Escaping to the Okanagan, she embraces the hippie culture, picks fruit, and makes new friends while confronting the harsh realities of polygamy. The Celestial Wife is an intense, gripping, and empowering historical fiction about growing up in a religious cult. Highly recommended for fans of the genre. - Jennifer D.
The Hazelbourne Ladies Motorcycle and Flying Club by Helen Simonson
The First World War has ended, and Constance Haverhill, like many women, suddenly finds herself without work or prospects. During the war, she had successfully managed a large farming estate, but now that the men are returning from the front, she is told she is no longer needed and finds a dull job as a lady’s companion in Hazelbourne-On-Sea. There, she meets a group of women, led by the local baronet’s daughter, Poppy Wirrall, who are operating a motorcycle taxi service. The women had worked as drivers or mechanics during the war and are struggling with their loss of freedom and independence. Poppy dares them to defy convention (and the law) and not only continue working but to restore a war surplus biplane and start a flying service as well. Simonson’s novel is a heart-warming story of friendship and new beginnings. - Ken
Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi
A powerful, heart-wrenching novel that explores race, ancestry, love, and the impact of history. The story follows two half-sisters whose lives are torn apart in 18th-century Africa, and the generations that follow them. Spanning over 300 years, the novel touches on the experiences of their descendants in both Africa and America, covering themes of slavery, survival, and the bonds that connect us all. I could not put this book down. The writing is exceptional, pulling readers through the struggles and tragedies of the characters, but sometimes the rapid passage of time left me wanting more depth in certain stories. A debut novel from a young woman that will leave you reflecting on the power of family and history long after you finish. - Emma
The Huntress by Kate Quinn
If you’re looking for a historical fiction novel that keeps you on the edge of your seat, "The Huntress" by Kate Quinn is the perfect pick. This gripping story weaves together the lives of several compelling characters, each navigating their own complex pasts in the aftermath of World War II. The central plot follows the pursuit of a notorious Nazi war criminal, known as the Huntress, but the book is so much more than a typical war story. It’s about survival, justice, and the moral dilemmas people face when seeking revenge. Quinn’s writing is immersive, bringing the time period to life while delving into the emotional journeys of her characters. The tension, twists, and emotional depth make this an unforgettable read. If you enjoy historical thrillers that combine mystery, drama, and heart, "The Huntress" will not disappoint! - Hanna.
Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Lisa See
Lady Tan’s Circle of Women is a character driven historical fiction that takes place in China during the Ming Dynasty. It follows a female physician as she navigates the traditional roles assigned to women and pushes back against these roles with the help and support of the women around her. Inspired by a real-life 15th century female physician, this historical novel is so well researched you will become captivated by the cultural and social customs and inspired by these brave and intelligent women. - Natashia
The Many Lives and Sorrows of Josephine B. by Sandra Gulland
The Many Lives and Sorrows of Josephine B. is book one in a trilogy about the girl who eventually becomes Josephine Bonaparte, Empress of the French. It is written by the Canadian author Sandra Gulland as diary entries starting in 1777 with 14-year-old Josephine growing up on the island of Martinique. In Paris, she marries French general Alexandre de Beauharnais, a man she loves but leaves her betrayed and penniless. By the end of this book, she narrowly escapes the guillotine and marries her young lover, Napoleon Bonaparte. Do not read this series for a dispassionate retelling of The Terror and reign of Napoleon. Josephine's diary vividly recounts the life of a powerful, clever and charismatic woman during an extraordinary time in history. I read all three books in quick succession; they are that good! - Elisa
The Wollstonecraft Detective Agency series
Historical figures, Ada Lovelace, mathematician and genius computer programmer, and Mary Shelley, author of Frankenstein, team up as young girls to solve mysteries in this fantastical fiction series. History, mystery, scientific, and funny series will have you using your critical analytical thinking skills to solve the mysteries found in this series. This series is great for middle-school readers, and they’ll be eager to learn about the remarkable women that the characters are based on and how they use their individual skills and talents to be world-class detectives! - Mary