March is Women’s History Month and as we celebrate the legacy of female endeavors, we also wanted to highlight fictional tales that take us to the heart of a number of historical events. Featuring a cascade of characters who overcame adversity, quietly waged war against injustice and righteously won their equal standing in society, these books are an array of celebrations and examinations throughout time. Some of the novels are based on actual women, others are stand-ins for an entire generation of heroines. Either way, we know you’ll walk away from each of these books feeling uplifted and renewed with a vigor to continue making the world a better place for women.
The Personal Librarian by Victoria Christopher Murray and Marie Benedict
Belle da Costa Greene’s journey as J.P Morgan’s personal librarian illustrates the great sacrifices made by women to protect themselves and strengthen their family’s future. In this novel, Victoria Christopher Murray and Marie Benedict beautifully portray Belle da Costa Green’s role in shaping cultural heritage with her intellectual prowess in a male-dominated world of literature and art.
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Yellow Wife by Sadeqa Johnson
Yellow Wife is a must-read for all readers. Inspired by Mary Lumpkin, the wife and property of Robert Lumpkin at Lumpkin’ Jail in Virginia. Pheby Delores Brown is a fierce protagonist emerging as a symbol of strength and resilience. This novel highlights the significant contributions of Black women and the importance of amplifying these untold stories.
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The American Queen by Vanessa Miller
Inspired by true events, The American Queen is a beautiful reminder of the hope that continues to shine in the darkness. Louella is enslaved on Montgomery Plantation and after losing both of her parents, hope is the furthest thing from her mind. But Reverend William ignites that sentiment when he leads the formerly enslaved people to a place of their own, called the Kingdom of Happy Land, a place where new beginnings are possible and hope has a chance.
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The Woman with No Name by Audrey Blake
Based on a true story, this gripping narrative centers around Yvonne Rudellat, Britain’s first female sabotage agent during World War II. As Yvonne takes on a new identity and sets out to undermine the Nazi regime in occupied France, she not only ignites the fire of resistance but also grapples with the risk of losing her own identity.
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A Woman of Endurance by Dahlma Llanos-Figueroa
This harrowing novel set in 19th century Puerto Rico follows Pola, an African captive on her journey through the Puerto Rican Atlantic slave trade. Her story shines a necessary light on the resilience of women who were dehumanized but strength and self-love triumphed nonetheless.
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Beautiful Little Fools by Jillian Cantor
Against the backdrop of the Jazz Age, Beautiful Little Fools reimagines The Great Gatsby and explores the lives of women challenging societal norms. Their pursuit of individuality and autonomy examines the dynamics between money and power, love and lust while celebrating the courage of women who choose to live on their own terms.
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The Woman at the Wheel by Penny Haw
An awe-inspiring novel based on Bertha Benz, wife of Carl Benz, follows a young woman determined to prove the advantages of being a woman in a male dominated world. She falls in love with Carl Benz and fiercely supports his dream of building a horseless carriage and is willing to risk everything to see this through. This novel lauds Bertha’s resilience and amplifies the pivotal role women have played throughout history.
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Things Past Telling by Sheila Williams
Inspired by a 112-year-old woman, comes an unforgettable narrative following one woman’s life from West Africa. Maryam Prescilla Grace is a heroine with poise and strength even when faced with extreme adversity. Throughout her life, her tenacity and self-assuredness showcase the power of women.
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Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly
This riveting novel beautifully weaves together the lives of three women during World War II. Each woman’s perspective illustrates the impact of war, the sacrifices, and the unwavering hope one possesses in the darkest of times. Lilac Girls reminds readers of the vital role women played on both the homefront and the battlefields during World War II.
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Take My Hand by Dolen Perkins-Valdez
An unforgettable story inspired by the true case of the Relf sisters, Take My Hand, amplifies the reproductive injustices against young Black girls and women. Set in Montgomery, Alabama, Civil Townsend grapples with the weight of executing her job responsibilities as a nurse and what is ethical behavior.
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