A really good example is 'The Color Purple' by Alice Walker. It tells the story of African - American women in the early 20th century, dealing with issues like racism, sexism, and domestic violence. The epistolary style makes it a very engaging read. 'Gone with the Wind' by Margaret Mitchell is also a classic. Scarlett O'Hara is a complex and memorable female character, and the book provides a vivid picture of the American South during the Civil War and Reconstruction.
Women's historical fiction is a genre that focuses on the experiences, stories, and perspectives of women in different historical periods. It often explores their lives, challenges, and contributions during those times.
You can start by asking for recommendations from librarians. They are well - versed in different genres and can point you to some great women's historical fiction. Another way is to look at best - seller lists in the historical fiction category and then focus on books with female - centered stories.
I think 'The Color Purple' by Alice Walker is also a great women historical fiction. It tells the story of African - American women in the early 20th century, dealing with themes of racism, sexism and family. It shows the strength and resilience of women in a difficult historical context. 'A Thousand Splendid Suns' by Khaled Hosseini is also worth mentioning. It portrays the lives of two Afghan women over several decades, showing the impact of war and social change on their lives.
One great one is 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak. Oh, wait, he's male. For women-authored, 'Alias Grace' by Margaret Atwood is excellent. It delves into the story of a real - life 19th - century Canadian servant accused of murder, with Atwood's signature writing style that blurs the lines between fact and fiction.
Alice Walker is also a prominent author. 'The Color Purple' is her masterpiece. She writes about the experiences of African - American women in a historical context, bringing to light the hardships they faced. Toni Morrison is another important figure. Although her works are not strictly 'historical fiction' in a traditional sense, but works like 'Beloved' which has historical elements, explores the African - American female experience in a post - slavery era, showing the long - lasting impact of slavery on women.
One characteristic is strong female characters. In historical women's fiction, women are often depicted as complex individuals who face and overcome various challenges within the historical context. Another is detailed historical settings. The stories are set in specific historical periods, like Victorian England or Colonial America, and the details of daily life, social norms, and historical events are carefully described.