The Disenchantment by Celia Bell

17th-century Paris | Forbidden love and deadly secrets

Set during the Affair of the Poisons, this lush and atmospheric novel follows two noblewomen entangled in a passionate affair—and a crime that threatens to expose everything. It’s richly detailed and gripping from the first page, delving into a world of mystery, betrayal, and desire. If you love historical fiction with bold women and high stakes, this one’s a must-read.

You can get a copy of The Disenchantment by Celia Bell on Amazon.

Good Night, Irene by Luis Alberto Urrea

World War II | Sisterhood on the front lines

Two women from very different backgrounds join the Red Cross Clubmobile during WWII, serving coffee, doughnuts, and cheer to soldiers overseas. But what begins as a bold escape quickly turns into an unforgettable journey through friendship, sacrifice, and survival. This novel broke my heart in the best way and made me want to hug every woman who has ever served on the sidelines of war.

You can get a copy of Good Night, Irene by Luis Alberto Urrea on Amazon.

Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Lisa See

15th-century China | Female friendship and ancient medicine

Inspired by a true story, this novel follows Tan Yunxian, born into an elite family, who defies expectations by becoming a physician—and maintaining a lifelong friendship with a midwife’s daughter. Lisa See always delivers vivid historical worlds, and this one is particularly moving as it celebrates female knowledge, loyalty, and the power of community.

You can get a copy of Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Lisa See on Amazon.

The Paris Daughter by Kristin Harmel

World War II Paris | Love, loss, and maternal courage

Two American expats raise their daughters in occupied Paris—but when tragedy strikes during the war, one mother must make an impossible choice and live with its consequences. Years later, the search for truth and reconciliation begins. This book had me reaching for tissues more than once, and its themes of motherhood, hope, and healing are beautifully rendered.

You can get a copy of The Paris Daughter by Kristin Harmel on Amazon.

Loot by Tania James

18th-century India to Europe | A stolen treasure and a quest for justice

When a young Indian artisan’s intricate tiger automaton is looted by British troops, he embarks on a transcontinental journey to reclaim it. This novel is bursting with adventure, colonial critique, and sharp wit. I loved how it explored both cultural theft and personal identity, making it an absolute standout in this year’s guide.

You can get a copy of Loot by Tania James on Amazon.

The Cherokee Rose by Tiya Miles

Georgia plantation | Ghosts, history, and hidden legacies

Inspired by a true story, three women explore their shared connection to a plantation once owned by a Cherokee slaveholder. This novel unearths lesser-known histories and weaves in themes of ancestral memory, racial identity, and reclamation. It’s the kind of story that’s both eye-opening and emotionally resonant—and I couldn’t stop thinking about it after turning the final page.

You can get a copy of The Cherokee Rose by Tiya Miles on Amazon.

Which 2023 Summer Reading Guide Historical Fiction Book Will You Read First?