The Women by Kristin Hannah – So many books and movies in our collective consciousness feature the Vietnam War, but not like this. The Women is the story of a young nurse signing up to serve and altering her life trajectory in the process. It’s not just a first-hand account of unseen female contribution behind enemy lines, but a story of what war does to people and what it can look like after. Any time I wasn’t reading this book, I wished I was.

Love on the Brain by Ali Hazelwood – The female lead is smart, sassy, and science-minded. Hazelwood makes the classic enemies-to-lovers trope feels fresh and refreshing. With pop culture references sprinkled throughout, steamy scenes that remind you what it feels like to fall in love, and the witty banter you wish you had in your life, you’ll most likely read it in a frenzy. Then immediately do the same with all her others! At least…that’s what I did.

Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl by Harriet Jacobs – This autobiography of a young woman born into slavery was the first of its kind published by a woman. In 1862, her work inspired other women and writers to share their own stories. Her incredible account of growing up enslaved and coming of age in a world that diminished her value and put her in continuous danger is nearly impossible to put down. Honest and gut wrenching, it reads like fiction, though it is anything but. She welcomes the reader into her actual life and begs them to take note. Inspired by her perseverance and strength and disgusted by her circumstances, I have not stopped thinking about her since.

The Change by Kirsten Miller – It’s no secret there are not many female protagonists “of a certain age.” Miller changes that with an inspiring take on the “change of life,” as my grandma would call it. These women come into their own and find they may have new and exciting powers only accessible to them at this precious stage. A dangerous and sinister situation puts their newfound abilities to the test. This book made me excited about the ongoing quest to find my own strength and see aging for what it really is, a beautiful and privileged mystery.

Nightbitch by Rachel Yoder – What a unique and raw perspective on becoming something new. Motherhood is miraculous (ultimate understatement), but it’s also a profound sacrifice. One we cannot know until it is already in motion. One many fear to acknowledge, worrying that to speak it is to negate the good. Yoder articulates the unique trials of staying home with a toddler and relinquishing what you once were for who you are becoming. Approach with an open mind and stay for the end. No matter your take, you won’t soon forget it.