Best Biographical Fiction Books of 2025

Hang the Moon: A Novel is a thrilling biographical fiction book from the bestselling author Jeannette Walls. The story is set in Virginia during Prohibition and centers around Sallie Kincaid, a young woman determined to reclaim her place in the family of the biggest man in town. Sallie is a fearless and resourceful bootlegger who navigates the factions in the family and town, while confronting the secrets and scandals that hide in the shadows of the Big House. Walls' writing style is captivating and will keep readers engaged from start to finish. Overall, Hang the Moon is a must-read book for anyone who loves historical fiction with strong female characters.

The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray is a captivating historical fiction novel about the life of Belle da Costa Greene, who was J. P. Morgan's personal librarian. Belle's story is one of deception and intrigue as she must hide her true identity as an African American woman and pass as white to preserve her legacy and protect her family. Benedict and Murray's writing brings Belle's world to life, and their depiction of her internal conflict is both compelling and thought-provoking. This book is a must-read for fans of biographical historical fiction.

The Dictionary of Lost Words is a biographical historical fiction book about Esme, a young girl who grows up in the Scriptorium, an Oxford garden shed where her father and a team of lexicographers are collecting words for the first Oxford English Dictionary. Esme discovers that words relating to women's and common folks' experiences often go unrecorded and begins to collect them for her own dictionary: the Dictionary of Lost Words. Set during the women's suffrage movement and with the Great War looming, this book is a delightful, lyrical, and deeply thought-provoking celebration of words and their power to shape the world. Overall, this book is a beautiful exploration of history and language that anyone who loves words will enjoy.

The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post: A Novel is a biographical historical fiction book that tells the epic story of Marjorie Merriweather Post, the heiress of General Foods empire. From her humble beginnings in Battle Creek, Michigan, Marjorie's insatiable drive to live and love led her to become the wealthiest woman in the United States before turning thirty. The book is a fascinating journey through Marjorie's life, from rescuing Tsar's treasures to entertaining the biggest stars in Hollywood. The author's captivating storytelling makes this book a must-read for anyone interested in American history and the life of a remarkable woman who dared to demand more.

The Diamond Eye is a gripping World War II tale based on a true story, featuring Mila Pavlichenko, a quiet bookworm who becomes the deadliest female sniper in history. Mila's journey from studious girl to lethal hunter of Nazis, known as Lady Death, is a remarkable character study of a woman who is a killer, a mother, a lover, and, above all else, a survivor. Kate Quinn's masterful storytelling and immersive period details make The Diamond Eye a haunting novel of heroism born of desperation, of a mother who became a soldier, and of a woman who changed the course of history forever.

The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath is a poignant novel about a young woman named Esther Greenwood who battles mental illness and societal pressures. Plath's writing style is masterful, drawing the reader into Esther's breakdown and making her neurosis completely understandable. The exploration of the dark corners of the psyche and the profound loneliness that modern society has yet to find a solution for is an extraordinary accomplishment. This modern classic is as meaningful today as it was 25 years ago and is a must-read for those who appreciate literature that explores the human condition.

Beneath a Scarlet Sky is a gripping World War II historical fiction novel based on the true story of Pino Lella, a young Italian man who becomes involved in the war effort in unexpected ways. Despite his initial reluctance, Pino joins an underground railroad helping Jews escape over the Alps and eventually becomes a personal driver for one of the Third Reich’s most powerful commanders. Through it all, Pino’s love for Anna and his dream of a future with her keep him going. This book is a must-read for fans of historical fiction, suspense, and romance.

An American Beauty is a biographical historical fiction novel that tells the story of Arabella Huntington, a woman who defied the constraints of her era to become the richest self-made woman in America. The book is set in the opulent and vicious social circles of Gilded Age New York and is written by the New York Times bestselling author of The Second Mrs. Astor. The novel brings to vivid life the glitter and drama of a captivating chapter in American history. The exquisite storytelling and exceptional character development make this book a must-read for fans of historical fiction.

The Second Mrs. Astor by Shana Abé is a heart-wrenching historical novel that takes readers inside the scandalous courtship and honeymoon aboard the Titanic of the most famous couple of their time—John Jacob Astor and Madeleine Force. Despite their age difference and the scandal of Jack’s recent divorce, Madeleine falls headlong into love and becomes the press’s favorite target. The novel is a beautifully written story of love, tragedy, and survival that will stay with readers long after turning the last page.

The Only Woman in the Room by Marie Benedict is a captivating historical fiction book that tells the story of Hedy Lamarr, a Hollywood icon, and scientist who played a significant role in the fight against the Nazis. The book is based on the incredible true story of Lamarr, who overheard the Third Reich's plans while at her husband's side and fled to Hollywood, where she became a screen star. Despite her beauty and fame, Lamarr kept a secret: she was a scientist with an idea that could revolutionize modern communication. Benedict's writing style is engaging and informative, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in women's contributions to science and history.