12 Must-Reads About Women & Work (Part 2)
Fiction and Nonfiction Picks for Your Summer Reading List
Make waves this summer, with your ambition and your reading list. Swim in these compelling stories and leadership narratives about women making their mark so you can make yours. From fiction to nonfiction, there’s a book for every woman.
Women & Work: Fiction
Queens of London: A Novel by Heather Webb
Queens of London is a gripping historical fiction set in 1920s London (think flapper-era with edge). It follows an all-female gang called the Forty Elephants, led by boss Alice Diamond who’s pulling off heists to provide for (and protect) her crew. It’s got drama, power moves and women rewriting the rules. Read Amazon description here.
The Library of Borrowed Hearts by Lucy Gilmoree
If you're in the mood for something cozy and heartwarming, The Library of Borrowed Hearts is such a gem. It follows Chloe, a librarian juggling life and raising her siblings, who finds an old book filled with handwritten notes that unravel a decades-old love story. As she digs deeper, she uncovers hidden connections that totally shift her world. It’s got mystery, romance and that magical bookish charm. Read Amazon description here.
Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl by Renee Rosen
If you're into glam, grit and girlboss energy, Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl is your must-read. Set in 1930s NYC, it follows Gloria, who's reinventing herself after a scandal and her unexpected friendship with a young Estée Lauder—yes, that Estée. Together, they hustle their way into the beauty world and high society. It’s a stylish, empowering read about ambition, friendship and carving your own path. Read Amazon description here.
Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry
If you're in the mood for a smart, slow-burn romance with a twist, Great Big Beautiful Life totally delivers. It follows Alice, a bright-eyed writer, and Hayden, a grumpy Pulitzer winner, as they compete to uncover the truth about a mysterious heiress. Set on a dreamy island, it's packed with literary tension, dual timelines and just the right amount of emotional depth. Perfect for readers who love layered stories and complex chemistry. Read Amazon description here.
The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek: A Novel & The Book Woman's Daughter: A Novel by Kim Michele Richardson
You’ve gotta read The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek first—it’s all about Cussy Mary, this rough-and-tough librarian in 1930s Kentucky who’s fighting against it to bring books to the mountains. The Book Woman’s Daughter is the perfect follow-up, picking up with her daughter, Honey, who fights for her place on the same Appalachian library route. The book duo will grip your head and heart. Read Amazon descriptions here & here.
The Spectacular: A Novel by Fiona Davis
The Spectacular is a thrilling dive onto the 1950s New York stage of the Radio City Rockettes. Main character Marion Brooks sidesteps family expectations to pursue dance with the Rockettes. But her glamorous career takes a turn when she gets caught up in the hunt for the "Big Apple Bomber" with an unlikely friend who changes everything on how to sniff out the perp. It’s a perfect read if you love history, mystery and a dash of Broadway magic. Read Amazon description here.
Women & Work: Non-Fiction
The Power Pause by Neha Ruch
It’s motherhood rebranded. The Power Pause by Neha Ruch gives women the permission slip they need to hit pause on career without leaving ambition behind. No guilt or shame here. Only how to come back stronger to paid work when you’re ready. With practical tips on everything from finances to mindset, this must-read helps you hit the pause button with confidence and plan your next move on your terms. Read Amazon description here.
The Broken Rung: When the Career Ladder Breaks for Women--and How They Can Succeed in Spite of It bY Kweilin Ellingrud, Lareina Yee, Maria del Mar Martinez
Hit a career wall? The Broken Rung is your essential guide. Diving into why women often get stuck at that first promotion, through data and story it gives you the tools you need to build your breakthrough career. It’s an empowering read for any woman looking to level up. Read Amazon description here.
The Perfectionist's Guide to Losing Control: A Path to Peace and Power by Katherine Morgan Schafler
Perfectionism wearing you down? Katherine Morgan Schafler breaks down how to wield your perfectionism into a strength without going crazy in the process. She’s got tools to help you stop chasing approval and start owning your power because let’s face it, perfection isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Read Amazon description here.
Hers for the Taking: Your Path to the C-Suite & Beyond by Tracey Newell
It’s the no-BS advice you’re looking for on how to break into the C-suite to make your mark. With 30+ years of experience in tech leadership, Tracey Newell dishes it straight. From owning your executive presence to thinking strategically, this book has all the tools to help you level up and never look back. Read Amazon description here.
Career Forward: Strategies from Women Who've Made It by Grace Puma and Christiana Smith Shi
The career/life playbook you’ve been searching for! Packed with strategies from two powerhouse women. They share real, actionable strategies on how to navigate career transitions, negotiate better pay and build your leadership brand. If you’re looking for practical advice and inspo to push forward while staying true to yourself, this book has you covered. Read Amazon description here.
When Mommy Grows Up: Finding Career Clarity While Covered in Kids by Becca Carnahan
If you're a mom juggling kids and career confusion, Becca Carnahan is your new BFF who gets it. Her book is a no-guilt guide to finding career clarity with tips that are as real as your day-to-day mom life. Carnahan blends practical advice with fun parenting wisdom to help you reconnect with your career dreams and take action. Read Amazon description here.
Hungry for more recommended reads? Take a peek at the first women & work book roundup here.
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