The Best Historical Fiction Books Not Set in World War II
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When you think of historical fiction, World War II novels often come to mind. And while those stories are powerful, there’s a whole world of untold history to explore beyond the battlefield. From the origins of Barbie to feminist awakenings in the 1960s, these books dive into lesser-known corners of the past—offering fresh, unforgettable narratives.
Whether you’re craving a literary mystery, a fashion empire saga, or a cultural revolution, these stories center women who challenge the status quo, often with pens, protests, and sheer determination. Here are 9 richly layered historical fiction novels not set during World War II.
The Queens of Crime by Marie Benedict
In The Queens of Crime, five iconic women writers—Dorothy L. Sayers, Agatha Christie, Ngaio Marsh, Margery Allingham, and Baroness Emma Orczy—form a secret society in 1930s London. But when a nurse is murdered in France, they put their sharp minds to work outside the pages of their books, determined to solve the case.
As they dig deeper, personal secrets come to light, forcing each woman to confront her own truths. A powerful blend of mystery and literary history, this novel reclaims the voices that helped shape the genre.
Why You’ll Love It: If you’re drawn to feminist reimaginations, classic mysteries, or stories about creative sisterhood, this novel delivers all three.
Buy this book: The Queens of Crime by Marie Benedict
Let’s Call Her Barbie by Renée Rosen
This vibrant historical novel takes readers behind the scenes of one of the most iconic toys in American history. In 1956, Ruth Handler dreams of a doll that lets girls imagine more than domestic life. With a team of engineers and designers, she turns that dream into Barbie.
Rosen brings the creation of Barbie to life with rich detail and emotional depth, exploring the personal costs of innovation and fame.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s a fascinating mix of cultural commentary, workplace drama, and women breaking barriers in business and design.
Buy this book: Let’s Call Her Barbie by Renée Rosen
The Greatest Lie of All by Jillian Cantor
Actress Amelia Grant lands the role of a lifetime: portraying Gloria Diamond, a famous romance author whose tragic love story inspired a bestselling novel. But as Amelia visits Gloria’s secluded estate to prepare for the role, the lines between fiction and reality blur.
As secrets unfold and emotions rise, Amelia must decide whether to protect the myth or reveal the truth.
Why You’ll Love It: A haunting story about identity, storytelling, and the masks we wear—for fame, for love, and for survival.
Buy this book: The Greatest Lie of All by Jillian Cantor
The Rebel of Seventh Avenue by Annabelle Marx
Maisie McIntyre is a seamstress who flees poverty in 1910 Edinburgh and reinvents herself in Manhattan’s burgeoning fashion scene. As she builds a couture empire, Maisie must navigate prejudice, heartbreak, and the high price of ambition.
Her journey is complicated by a forbidden romance with Joseph Jackson, a visionary Black architect, and the era’s rigid social codes.
Why You’ll Love It: Perfect for fans of historical dramas, this is a story about daring to dream big—and the strength it takes to rise.
Buy this book: The Rebel of Seventh Avenue by Annabelle Marx
The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick
Set in 1960s Concordia, this story follows Margaret Ryan—a seemingly perfect suburban housewife—who finds her world upended after meeting bold, outspoken Charlotte. What begins as a book club turns into a movement of personal awakening.
As the women read The Feminine Mystique, they start questioning their lives and discovering their true desires.
Why You’ll Love It: A heartfelt and hopeful exploration of friendship, feminism, and how books can change your life.
Buy this book: The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick
The Lost Story of Eva Fuentes by Chanel Cleeton
Three women. One mysterious book. Spanning modern-day London, 1960s Havana, and a legacy of secrets, this novel follows Margo, Pilar, and Eva—each linked by a rare volume with a dangerous past.
As their stories unfold across generations, they must each decide what they’re willing to risk to preserve truth and memory.
Why You’ll Love It: If you love books about books, hidden histories, and women protecting knowledge, this novel is a must-read.
Buy this book: The Lost Story of Eva Fuentes by Chanel Cleeton
The Story She Left Behind by Patti Callahan Henry
In 1952, Clara is still haunted by her mother’s disappearance decades earlier. Bronwyn, a famed author, vanished under mysterious circumstances, leaving behind a bestselling book written in an invented language. When a scholar claims to have decoded it, Clara and her daughter head to smog-filled London seeking answers.
What they discover will change their lives—and literature—forever.
Why You’ll Love It: A beautifully layered mystery perfect for fans of dual timelines and stories about mothers and daughters.
Buy this book: The Story She Left Behind by Patti Callahan Henry
My Name Is Emilia del Valle by Isabel Allende
Born in 1866 San Francisco, Emilia is the daughter of an Irish nun and a Chilean aristocrat. She grows up challenging societal expectations, becomes a journalist, and travels to Chile to cover civil war—where she must face the truth about her past and future.
Why You’ll Love It: Allende brings her signature blend of historical richness and feminist grit to this coming-of-age epic.
Buy this book: My Name Is Emilia del Valle by Isabel Allende
Gabriele by Anne Berest and Claire Berest
Inspired by the life of Gabriële Buffet, this novel brings to life the early 20th-century Parisian art world through the lens of a woman often overshadowed by her famous lovers. Musician, muse, mother—Gabriële’s story challenges the boundaries of art, love, and legacy.
Why You’ll Love It: A bold tribute to women who shaped modern art but were forgotten by history.
Buy this book: Gabriele by Anne Berest and Claire Berest
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