Badass Women in Historical Romance: 3 Must-Read Books Inspired by Real History
Looking for historical romance books with badass women who actually existed? These stories are inspired by real-life trailblazers—women who made waves in their time and still inspire us today. Whether it’s Victorian medicine, Civil War espionage, or Tang Dynasty intrigue, these heroines prove that romance and rebellion go hand-in-hand.
Here are 3 of the best historical romances featuring badass women inspired by real history.
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Badass Women in Historical Romance
Hello Stranger by Lisa Kleypas – A Badass Female Doctor in Historical Romance
Read this if you want:
- Swoon-worthy, respectful romance
- Heroine breaking gender barriers
- Victorian setting
- Based on a real historical figure
If you’re into badass women in historical romance, start with Dr. Garrett Gibson in Hello Stranger. She’s England’s only female physician, fearless in her pursuit of a medical career during a time when women weren’t even allowed in the room.
But what makes this historical romance even better? Garrett’s character is based on Dr. Elizabeth Garrett Anderson, the actual first woman to qualify as a physician and surgeon in Britain. Throw in a hot ex-spy who respects her brilliance, and you’ve got a must-read.
An Extraordinary Union by Alyssa Cole – A Black Spy Heroine Inspired by Real History
Read this if you want:
- High-stakes, emotional storytelling
- Civil War espionage
- Real Black women in history
- Forbidden romance
This is one of the most unforgettable examples of badass historical women in romance novels. Elle Burns is a former slave with a photographic memory who becomes a Union spy during the Civil War. She volunteers to go undercover as an enslaved woman—even after gaining her freedom—to gather intelligence for the Union.
Elle’s story is inspired by real Black women like Mary Bowser, who infiltrated the Confederate White House as a spy. It’s bold, brave, and beautifully written—and the slow-burn tension with a fellow Union spy just seals the deal.
The Lotus Palace by Jeannie Lin – A Tang Dynasty Heroine with Quiet Power
Read this if you want:
- Unique historical setting (Tang Dynasty)
- Murder mystery + romance
- Feminine power and resilience
- Rooted in real cultural history
If you’re looking to step outside the usual European settings, The Lotus Palace is the perfect pick. This historical romance is set in Tang Dynasty China and centers on Yue-ying, a former courtesan’s maid who gets pulled into a murder mystery—and a slow-burn romance with a charming scholar.
While Yue-ying isn’t directly based on one person, she’s inspired by real Tang Dynasty courtesans like Xue Tao and Yu Xuanji—badass women in history who were poets, scholars, and influential figures in their own right.
Why We Love Badass Women in Historical Romance
There’s something powerful about seeing badass women in historical romance—especially when they’re based on real women who changed the world. These books blend truth and fiction in the best way, giving us love stories that feel bold, empowering, and unforgettable.
More Historical Romance Recommendations
If you love heroines who push boundaries, make sure to check out:
Got a favorite romance inspired by a real woman in history? Drop it in the comments—we’re always building our TBR!
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