Books For Women In Their 40s
When you reach your 40s, something changes about how you read. Maybe it's because your priorities shift. You have less time, more responsibilities, and an evolving sense of who you are and what you want. Maybe you’re navigating marriage and children, career changes, aging parents, or even rediscovering your passions after years of putting others first. Whatever your path looks like, your reading list is likely changing right along with you.
It’s not that you stop loving books; it’s that finding the right book becomes more meaningful—and, sometimes, more difficult. Gone are the days of grabbing whatever's on the bestseller shelf just because everyone’s talking about it. Now you want stories that reflect your life, challenge your thinking, or simply give you a much-needed escape.
That’s why I put together this roundup of must-read books for women in their 40s. Whether you’re in the thick of parenting, navigating midlife transitions, or just craving a great love story, this list will help you find your next perfect read.
(15+) Books For Women In Their 40s That Belong On Your Reading List
Before we dive into the books themselves, let’s talk a bit about what makes a book appealing to women in this decade of life. Understanding the common themes and genres that resonate can help set your expectations and make your next pick feel like it was written just for you.
What Do Women Aged 45 And Older Like To Read About?
Women in their 40s and beyond often gravitate toward books that speak to real-life experiences. That could mean reading about marriage and children, second chances at love, or the shifting dynamics of long-term friendships. There’s also a growing interest in stories about reinvention—leaving a career to chase a dream, moving across the world, or exploring life after divorce.
Non-fiction is also having a moment. Many women in their 40s are diving into memoirs, self-help, or wellness books that inspire them to take better care of themselves—mentally, emotionally, and physically. There’s a hunger for meaning, purpose, and authenticity, and the books we read often reflect that.
And of course, escape still matters. Whether it’s a juicy thriller, a historical fiction drama, or a contemporary romance, women in this age group love getting swept away into a compelling story.
What Are Must-Read Books For Women In Their 40s?
Let’s break this down into two main categories: fiction and non-fiction. Both have their place on any woman’s reading list—and both are well represented in this roundup.
I want to note that I do not get paid to do these posts, I just love authors and the book industry. However, they do take time and energy to create. If you want to donate a few dollars to my coffee fund, which keeps this blog going, you can do so here: https://venmo.com/AshleyHasty or here: http://paypal.me/hastybooklist.
Books For Women In Their 40s
Fiction Books for Women in Their 40s
The Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley Heller
This gripping novel explores the complexities of a long marriage and the secrets we carry. Set over the course of one summer day, The Paper Palace dives deep into themes of family, betrayal, and the road not taken. Miranda Cowley Heller’s prose is lush and evocative, making this a book you’ll want to savor.
[The last book I read was] ‘The Paper Palace’ by Miranda Cowley Heller. A compelling, domestic drama that explores how traumatic events in the past can still affect the present. A wonderfully evocative book with an ambiguous ending. - Dinah Jefferies
Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane
Two neighboring families are torn apart by tragedy in this multi-generational story of love, forgiveness, and resilience. If you like character-driven stories with emotional depth, this one’s for you. It beautifully captures how childhood events can echo through a lifetime.
[The last book I read was] Ask Again Yes by Mary Beth Keane— this is a wonderful family saga and my book club loved it too! - Kara Thomas
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
This sweeping historical novel follows two sisters in Nazi-occupied France as they fight to survive—and resist—in very different ways. It’s a powerful story of love, sacrifice, and the strength of women.
Fleishman Is in Trouble by Taffy Brodesser-Akner
This smart, witty novel starts as a story about a man navigating divorce and single parenting, but quickly becomes a profound meditation on marriage, gender roles, and midlife disillusionment. A must-read for fans of complex characters and sharp writing.
[What book character would you be best friends with?] This is tough. There are so many. Maybe Libby from FLEISHMAN IS IN TROUBLE By Taffy Brodesser-Akner -- that book and that character in particular really resonated with me. I don't love elevators and I think Libby and I would have a lot to discuss. - Jordan Roter
The Guncle by Steven Rowley
Author Interview with Steven Rowley
Equal parts heartwarming and hilarious, this story follows a once-famous gay actor who becomes guardian to his niece and nephew after a family tragedy. It’s about grief, healing, and the power of chosen family.
[What character would you want to be stuck in an elevator with?] The character I choose is Guncle Patrick from The Guncle by Steven Rowley. He wouldn't have the kids with him, but he'd have a little girl's pink underpants falling out of his pants pocket. He'd glance down, notice the underwear, realize I am watching as he stuffs them back to invisibility and laugh as he stumbles over an embarrassed explanation that would start out, "It's okay, they're mine. I mean, not to wear, oh crap, wait, uh, I didn't mean crap like that, I mean, they're my kid's, well, she's not my kid, she's...oh...this isn't going well, is it?" - Lynne Hugo
Non-Fiction Books for Women in Their 40s
Untamed by Glennon Doyle
Glennon Doyle’s bestselling memoir is a rallying cry for women to live authentically and stop apologizing for who they are. It’s both empowering and deeply personal, making it one of the most talked-about books for women of all ages.
[The author I draw inspiration from is] Glennon Doyle. Untamed, for sure. It’s such a beautiful story of how Glennon found authenticity, began living her most genuine life, and shook off the world’s domestication. - Amber Wardell, PhD
Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb
This memoir by a therapist about her own experience with therapy is equal parts funny, heartbreaking, and insightful. It’s a comforting reminder that we’re all works in progress.
Fair Play by Eve Rodsky
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the mental load of parenting and running a household, this book offers a fresh and practical take on how to rebalance the workload. Great for women juggling marriage and children.
I Miss You When I Blink by Mary Laura Philpott
This witty and relatable collection of essays captures the feeling of wondering "Is this all there is?" It’s perfect for anyone who feels like they followed the rules but still isn’t sure where they ended up.
Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes
The creator of Grey’s Anatomy and Scandal shares how saying "yes" to everything for a year changed her life. It’s funny, honest, and will have you reconsidering your own comfort zone.
The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown
This classic from the queen of vulnerability encourages readers to embrace their flaws and live wholeheartedly. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to let go of perfectionism and reconnect with joy.
Bonus Picks for a Well-Rounded Reading List
Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
A call to anyone longing to create. Whether you’re an artist, writer, or dreamer, this book will help you chase inspiration without fear.
[The author I draw inspiration from is] Elizabeth Gilbert. She writes equally well whether she’s writing memoir, fiction, or inspirational self-help. She began her career writing journalism. She’s also written stories, biographies, letters, journals, and more. In a 2013 interview with Kelton Reid posted to “The Writer Files,” on Copyblogger.com, when Reid asked Gilbert about her area of expertise as a writer, she said “getting it done, whatever needs writing. I used to have a business card that said, ‘Words-R-Us.’” I admire her humor, versatility, honesty, vulnerability, authenticity, and faith. Her book, Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear resonates deeply and is one of the best books I’ve read on the creative process. Her writing sparkles on every page. My copy of the book is filled with notes, underlines, and sticky tabs. I return to it often for inspiration, levity, and grounding. - Bella Mahaya Carter
Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld
A fun, smart, and unexpected love story that examines fame, creativity, and what it means to fall for someone completely different from yourself. Perfect for women who still love a twist on the traditional love story.
[The book character I’d be best friends with is] Sally Milz, the protagonist of Curtis Sittenfeld’s Romantic Comedy. In a word, she’s hilarious. She’s also a writer on the fictional sketch show (ala SNL), The Night Owls. If we were stuck on an elevator, however, I might be interrogating her on all the behind-the-scenes shenanigans that go on at T.N.O., which in this scenario, she is more than willing to dish. - Sarahlyn Bruck
Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano
A sweeping, emotional novel about four sisters, family loyalty, and the transformative power of love. A beautiful story that touches on mental health, resilience, and unconditional love.
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
In this deeply philosophical and imaginative novel, the protagonist explores alternate versions of her life. It's a poignant look at regret, possibility, and what it means to live a fulfilling life.
[The book character I’d like to be stuck in an elevator with is] Nora Seed from Matt Haig's "The Midnight Library." As someone who always plays the "What if I'd done THIS with my life instead of THIS" game, I'd want to talk to her about all those possible lives she could have led, and what happened in the one she ultimately chose. - Karen Janowsky
The Dutch House by Ann Patchett
Spanning five decades, this novel explores the indelible bond between a brother and sister and the house that shaped their lives. Rich in character development and emotional resonance.
[The book character I’d be best friends with is] Maeve Conroy from Anne Patchett's The Dutch House, narrated by Tom Hanks.
The Dutch House is a story about family, overindulgence, and letting go. The plot is the stuff of fairy tales – a sister and brother raised in decadent luxury, only to be denied their rightful inheritance and plunged into poverty by a grasping stepmother. It isn’t the plot but the relationship between these two siblings – Maeve and Danny – that gives the novel its hook.
Maeve is smart as a whip, funny, loyal, and incredibly forgiving. I know lots of people but I only have a handful of lifelong friends. I can well imagine Maeve becoming one of them. - Julia Sullivan
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
Set in the 1960s, this novel tells the story of a brilliant woman chemist who becomes a cooking show host, all while battling societal expectations. Funny, fierce, and empowering.
I would love to pick the brain of Elizabeth Zott from Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus. To be frank, she'd probably loathe the day she got stuck with me in such a tight place because I have so many questions for her, and I'd like to chat with her about changes that have come about since her time in the chemistry lab. I earned my PhD in 2003 (in physiology), and men still outnumbered women (as is STILL the case now), but I was lucky enough to have a wonderful and supportive woman advisor. I think Elizabeth and I would swap stories and she might be just as shocked by things I could do as I was horrified by things she couldn't (or wasn't allowed) to do. - Christina Consolino
Daring Greatly by Brené Brown
Another transformative book from Brené Brown, this one explores how vulnerability is the key to connection, creativity, and courage. Perfect for anyone reevaluating their identity and goals in their 40s.
Know Your Endo by Jessica Murnane
For women navigating chronic illness or seeking a deeper understanding of their bodies, this book offers empathy, education, and empowerment.
Tiny Beautiful Things by Cheryl Strayed
A collection of advice columns from the "Dear Sugar" column, full of heartbreak, wisdom, and humanity. Raw, honest, and healing.
There you have it—a well-rounded, thoughtful reading list that reflects the complexities, joys, and challenges of being a woman in her 40s. Whether you’re in the mood for a love story, a deep dive into personal growth, or a relatable story about marriage and children, there’s something here for you.
For even more inspiration, check out my roundup of the most popular books for women and a collection of inspiring women's books that are perfect for adding to your nightstand.
Happy reading!
