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Kelly Today

Blog, Books, Lifestyle · September 26, 2025

30 Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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Turning 26 this year made me realise that my twenties are already halfway through—a thought that’s both exciting and terrifying. Like many, I often feel unsure and far from having life figured out. Since my teenage years, I’ve grappled with the tension between what I truly want and what others expect of me. This internal battle has pushed me to explore countless podcasts, films, and books in search of clarity. Yet, the truth is, your twenties are meant to be a beautiful mess—a whirlwind of trial, error, and self-discovery.

If you’re in your twenties or about to embark on this transformative decade, this article is here to guide you. Here, you’ll find a curated list of the 30 books to read in your 20s for women navigating this decade. Whether you’re looking for practical advice or heartfelt stories, these reads cover it all—finances, friendships, love, self-worth, and everything in between. They’re my go-to recommendations to help make sense of these turbulent but pivotal years.

Contents hide
1 Finance Books to Read In Your 20s
1.1 Financial Feminist by Tori Dunlap
1.2 Good With Money by Emma Edwards
1.3 Girls That Invest by Simran Kaur
1.3.1 Interested in building financial independence?
2 Books to Read In Your 20s If You’re Feeling Lost
2.1 I Didn’t Know I Needed This by Eli Rallo
2.2 The Lonely Stories, Edited by Natalie Eve Garrett
2.3 Before I Let Go by Kennedy Ryan
2.4 Happy Place by Emily Henry
2.5 You and Me on Vacation by Emily Henry
2.6 The Space Between By Michelle Andrews and Zara McDonald
2.7 The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
2.8 Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner
2.9 The Panic Years: Dates, Doubts, and the Mother of All Decisions by Nell Frizzell
3 Books to Read in Your 20s for Personal Development
3.1 A Lonely Girl is a Dangerous Thing
3.2 Conversations on Love by Natasha Lunn
3.3 A Gentle Reminder by Bianca Sparacino
3.4 101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think by Brianna Wiest
3.5 Tiny Beautiful Things: Advice from Dear Sugar
3.6 The Idiot by Elif Batuman
3.7 Writers & Lovers by Lily King
3.8 Sorrow and Bliss by Meg Mason
3.9 Bite Back by Hannah Ferguson
3.10 Women Living Deliciously by Florence Given
3.11 The Age of Magical Overthinking by Amanda Irrationality
4 Books to Read in Your 20s about Relationships
4.1 Cleopatra and Frankenstein by Coco Mellors
4.2 Call it What You Want by Alissa Derogatis
4.3 Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton
4.4 I Could Live Here Forever by Hanna Halperin
4.5 Good Material by Dolly Alderton
4.6 You’re Overthinking It: Find Lifelong Love By Being Your True Self by Sabrina Alexis Bendory
4.7 Adelaide: A Novel by Genevieve Wheeler

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Finance Books to Read In Your 20s

If there’s one topic you should read and learn about in your twenties, it’s financial literacy. Books on money management, investing, and personal finance can provide practical strategies, from budgeting and saving to understanding credit and building wealth. Reading these early not only helps avoid common money mistakes but also sets the foundation for long-term financial confidence. Whether you’re curious about investing basics, mastering your spending habits, or understanding the psychology of money, diving into financial literacy now can pay dividends for years to come. Here’s a list of finance books to read in your 20s.

Financial Feminist by Tori Dunlap

Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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Tori Dunlap’s Financial Feminist is a must-read for anyone in their twenties looking to take control of their financial future.

The book isn’t just about budgeting or investing—it’s an empowering guide that addresses the unique challenges women face with money, from the gendered wealth gap to societal stereotypes. With practical exercises, journaling prompts, and expert insights, it teaches you how to manage debt, invest wisely, and spend with intention—all while creating the freedom to live life on your terms. Reading it in your twenties gives you the tools to build financial confidence early, so you can make money work for you, not the other way around.

“We live in a patriarchal world—a system that aids and abets inequality. In this system that has gatekept financial information and tools from marginalized groups, it is an act of protest to be financially independent. It is an act of protest to overcome negative beliefs about money in order to save, pay off debt, invest, and find fulfilling work. It is an act of protest to prioritize rest instead of hustle, abundance rather than scarcity, and generosity in place of stockpiling. In a world that actively works to keep us playing small, it is an act of protest to be stable, content, and powerful.”

– Tori Dunlap

Good With Money by Emma Edwards

Good With Money by Emma Edwards - Finance Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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A practical, funny and relatable guide that won’t make you feel bad about your finances or tell you to cut out everything you enjoy.

Your twenties are the perfect time to develop healthy financial habits, and Good With Money by Emma Edwards is the ultimate guide to taking control of your finances. Written with an approachable and relatable tone, Edwards simplifies budgeting, saving, and money management while addressing the emotional side of financial well-being. This book empowers you to make confident financial decisions, setting you up for a secure and stress-free future.

“We’re told our worth lies solely in how we look. It serves the patriarchy well for us to outsource our self-worth to a jeans size or a number of wrinkles, because these standards are keeping us distracted, and keeping us spending.”

– Emma edwards

Girls That Invest by Simran Kaur

Girls that Invest by Simran Kaur a Finance Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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An easy-to-read guide to start investing with theory and practical examples.

Girls That Invest by Simran Kaur is the perfect guide for women in their twenties who want to take charge of their financial futures. This book breaks down the world of investing in a way that feels approachable, empowering, and practical, making it ideal for those just starting out. Kaur highlights the importance of building wealth early and offers simple, actionable advice that helps you understand the basics of investing, regardless of your prior knowledge. For women in their twenties, this is the perfect time to begin investing, and Girls That Invest offers the confidence and tools you need to make smart, informed decisions. By reading this book, you’ll not only start laying the foundation for financial independence but also challenge the common misconception that investing is too complex or out of reach. It’s a must-read for anyone ready to take control of their money and secure their financial future.

“The truth is, thinking that investing is too hard is a popular myth that holds most of us back from getting started.”

– simran kaur

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Girls that Invest by Simran Kaur a Finance Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

Books to Read In Your 20s If You’re Feeling Lost

If you’re searching for media that resonates while navigating your twenties, check out this full post packed with recommendations—from insightful articles and comfort films to books and videos—to help you feel seen, inspired, and less alone.

I Didn’t Know I Needed This by Eli Rallo

Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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A practical, funny, and relatable guide that won’t make you feel judged for your dating mishaps.

Your twenties are the perfect time to figure out what you want from love, life, and yourself, and I Didn’t Know I Needed This by Eli Rallo is the ultimate guide to navigating modern dating with confidence. Written with a candid and humorous voice, Rallo shares her own adventures, missteps, and rules for dating—from first flirts and risky DMs to heartbreak and self-love—while giving actionable advice on setting boundaries, communicating your needs, and enjoying the ride. This book empowers you to embrace your twenties fully, fall in love with yourself, and approach relationships with both honesty and joy.

“You don’t miss them, you miss the feeling they gave you.”

– Eli Rallo

The Lonely Stories, Edited by Natalie Eve Garrett

The Lonely Stories edited by Natalie Eve Garrett a Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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A thoughtful, poignant, and relatable collection that won’t make you feel pressured to be “always busy” or socially perfect.

Your twenties are the perfect time to explore your own identity and learn to embrace solitude, and The Lonely Stories, edited by Natalie Eve Garrett, is the ultimate guide to understanding the joys and struggles of being alone. Featuring essays from 22 acclaimed writers—including Lev Grossman, Jhumpa Lahiri, Lena Dunham, Jesmyn Ward, Yiyun Li, and Anthony Doerr—this collection explores heartbreak, humour, longing, and self-discovery. From reflections on loss and displacement to the quiet pleasures of solitude, these essays offer affirmation, insight, and comfort, reminding you that being alone doesn’t mean being lonely, and that your experiences are both valid and shared.

“It was an enormous relief to not want anything from anyone, to not worry about whether I could persuade anyone to love me.”

 Helena Fitzgerald

Before I Let Go by Kennedy Ryan

Before I Let Go b Kenendy Ryan - Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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Recommended for those who have experienced loss, are in their healing process, or are looking for that spark.

Before I Let Go by Kennedy Ryan is an emotional and beautifully crafted novel that speaks to the complexities of love, loss, and healing, making it an essential read for women in their twenties. The story follows the journey of Yasmen and Josiah, who navigate the painful yet transformative process of finding their way back to each other after a heartbreaking separation. Ryan’s writing is raw and deeply resonant, capturing the highs and lows of relationships with such authenticity that readers can’t help but reflect on their own experiences. For women in their twenties, Before I Let Go offers valuable lessons about resilience, self-worth, and the importance of forgiveness—both of others and oneself. This book encourages you to understand that letting go doesn’t mean giving up and that sometimes, the most powerful form of growth comes from embracing vulnerability and learning to love again.

“Then she laughed and I wondered if this—finding someone you can laugh with when everything hurts—was the stuff happily ever afters were made of.”

– Kennedy ryan

Happy Place by Emily Henry

- Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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A heartfelt, witty, and deeply relatable story that won’t shy away from the messy realities of love, friendship, and growing up.

Your twenties are the perfect time to explore relationships, self-discovery, and the complexities of adult friendships, and Happy Place by Emily Henry is the ultimate guide to feeling all the feels. Following Harriet and Wyn, a couple navigating a breakup while sharing their friend group’s cherished Maine cottage, the novel dives into love, loss, miscommunication, and the journey back to each other. Alternating between past and present timelines, Henry masterfully portrays the highs and lows of romantic connection, the bonds of chosen family, and the bittersweet evolution of friendships. This book will leave you reflecting on love, vulnerability, and the messy, beautiful process of growing into yourself, proving that even heartbreak and missteps can shape a meaningful, joyful life.

“I imagined them all thinking it was worth it. Telling me how much they loved me. All my life, when I thought of my future, that was what I pictured. Not a career. The things I thought would come with it. Happiness, love, safety. And that dream had been enough for a long time. What was school if not a chance to earn your worth? To prove, again and again, that you were measurably good. One more deal I struck with a disinterested universe: If I’m good enough, I’ll be happy. I’ll be loved. I’ll be safe.”

– Emily Henry

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- Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

You and Me on Vacation by Emily Henry

- Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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A witty, heartfelt, and nostalgic story that perfectly captures the highs and lows of friendship, love, and growing up.

Your twenties are the perfect time to explore the bonds that shape you, and You and Me on Vacation by Emily Henry is the ultimate guide to understanding the messy, beautiful journey of connection over time. Following Poppy and Alex across twelve summers, the novel traces their evolution from antagonists to inseparable friends, capturing unforgettable moments, shared adventures, and the complicated emotions that come with deep relationships. With humour, heart, and a bittersweet sense of longing, Henry explores the delicate balance between friendship and love, showing how one last trip can redefine everything. This book reminds readers that some connections are worth holding onto, no matter how unpredictable life—and love—can be.

“But most of us are too scared to even ask what we want, in case we can’t have it.”

– Emily henry

The Space Between By Michelle Andrews and Zara McDonald

- Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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A witty, candid, and deeply relatable look at the highs and lows of navigating early adulthood.

The Space Between by Michelle Andrews and Zara McDonald is the ultimate companion for anyone figuring out life in that confusing, exhilarating limbo. Drawing from their own experiences and their hit podcast Shameless, the authors share candid reflections on heartbreak, mental health, career setbacks, friendships, and self-discovery. Brimming with humour, vulnerability, and sharp insight, this book reminds readers that while adulthood may feel messy and uncertain, there’s magic to be found in the journey and sometimes the best lessons happen in the space between.

The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

- Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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A thought-provoking, emotional, and deeply reflective story that asks what it truly means to live a meaningful life.

The Midnight Library by Matt Haig explores the idea that every choice we make opens a door to a different life. When Nora Seed finds herself in a library between life and death, she is given the chance to undo her regrets and explore the lives she could have lived. Through this journey, the novel confronts themes of depression, self-worth, and the pressure of “what ifs,” while also celebrating the beauty and absurdity of being alive. Haig’s writing is both poignant and illuminating, encouraging readers to consider what makes life worth living, to release the burden of regrets, and to find meaning in the life they are actually living.

“If you aim to be something you are not, you will always fail. Aim to be you. Aim to look and act and think like you. Aim to be the truest version of you. Embrace that you-ness. Endorse it. Love it. Work hard at it. And don’t give a second thought when people mock it or ridicule it. Most gossip is envy in disguise.”

– Matt Haig

Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner

- Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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A profoundly moving, lyrical, and deeply personal memoir that explores identity, grief, and the bonds that shape us.

Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner is an unforgettable journey through loss, culture, and self-discovery. Zauner reflects on growing up as a mixed-race Korean-American, navigating a complicated relationship with her mother, and coming to terms with her mother’s terminal illness. Through intimate stories, vivid descriptions of Korean food, and reflections on family, culture, and belonging, she captures the quiet power of love, memory, and tradition. This memoir is as heartbreaking as it is beautiful, offering readers a chance to reflect on their own connections, identity, and the moments we often take for granted, leaving a lasting emotional impact long after the final page.

“I remember these things clearly because that was how my mother loved you, not through white lies and constant verbal affirmation, but in subtle observations of what brought you joy, pocketed away to make you feel comforted and cared for without even realizing it.”

– Michelle Zauner

The Panic Years: Dates, Doubts, and the Mother of All Decisions by Nell Frizzell

- Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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A candid and thought-provoking look at the pressures women face in deciding if and when to have children.

The Panic Years by Nell Frizzell is a raw and relatable exploration of the anxieties that surface between the ages of twenty-five and forty, when decisions about work, relationships, and life can feel dominated by the question of whether to have a baby. With honesty, humour, and insight, Frizzell shares her own experiences while opening a broader conversation about societal expectations, personal choice, and the often unspoken fears surrounding motherhood. This book offers comfort, validation, and clarity for anyone navigating this uniquely stressful period, reminding readers that they are not alone in their panic or uncertainty.

“Throughout my twenties and into my thirties, I tried desperately to appear casual and carefree, believing that any hint at my true, complicated desires—in my case, for love, commitment, independence, a successful career, and ultimately a baby too—would render me single forever. I silenced myself, because I thought it made me more attractive”

– Nell Frizzell

Books to Read in Your 20s for Personal Development

A Lonely Girl is a Dangerous Thing

- Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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A raw, unflinching, and thought-provoking novel that explores loneliness, longing, and the search for meaning.

A Lonely Girl Is a Dangerous Thing by Jessie Tu follows Jena Chung, a former violin prodigy navigating the emptiness of early adulthood through her music, relationships, and impulsive choices. Detached yet deeply human, Jena’s journey confronts the pain of chronic loneliness, the pressures of family and ambition, and the unpredictability of life when dreams shift or vanish. With a fearless and original voice, Tu captures the awkwardness, confusion, and quiet desperation of trying to find your place in the world, offering readers a sobering reflection on connection, desire, and the small moments that make life meaningful.

Conversations on Love by Natasha Lunn

- Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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A thoughtful, insightful, and deeply moving exploration of love in all its forms.

Conversations on Love examines the many ways love shapes our lives—from romantic relationships and friendships to grief, loss, and self-acceptance. Combining her own experiences with interviews from writers, thinkers, and cultural figures like Alain de Botton, Dolly Alderton, Roxane Gay, and Candice Carty-Williams, Lunn offers a nuanced look at how we find, sustain, and survive love. This book encourages readers to broaden their understanding of love beyond fantasy and expectation, embrace vulnerability, nurture meaningful connections, and live authentically. Profoundly empathetic and beautifully written, it provides space to reflect on our own relationships, making it a resonant and transformative read for anyone seeking to understand love more fully.

“As I grew older, I learnt that the expectation that someone will save you from who you are, or from what you have or don’t have, is a fallacy. Expecting someone to fill in a hole that’s within you? That’s expecting too much of any one person. That’s not your friend’s job or your partner’s job. That’s your job.”

– Natasha Lunn

A Gentle Reminder by Bianca Sparacino

- Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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A soothing, heartfelt, and uplifting collection that offers comfort when life feels overwhelming.

Through reflective and compassionate prose, Sparacino provides encouragement to heal, grow, and embrace the messiness and beauty of being human. This book serves as a quiet companion, reminding readers that it’s okay to feel deeply, to stay soft, and to keep going even when life feels uncertain. Perfect for anyone seeking reassurance, reflection, or a gentle nudge toward hope and self-compassion.

“Forgive yourself for the way you held yourself back because you didn’t believe in your own potential, because you didn’t believe in your capacity to take up space.”

– Bianca Sparacino

101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think by Brianna Wiest

- Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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An insightful collection designed to challenge your perspective and spark personal growth.

101 Essays That Will Change the Way You Think brings together her most compelling writing on topics like pursuing purpose over passion, embracing negative thinking, understanding daily routines, and recognising cognitive biases that shape how we see our lives. Each short, digestible essay encourages reflection and actionable change, making complex ideas accessible and relevant. While some sections feel repetitive toward the end, the concise chapters and practical guidance make it an interesting read for mental clarity, self-awareness, and personal development—perfect for anyone looking to rethink their habits, mindset, and approach to life.

“The worst happened, and then it passed. You lost the person you thought you couldn’t live without and then you kept living. You lost your job then found another one. You began to realize that “safety” isn’t in certainty—but in faith that you can simply keep going.”

–  Brianna Wiest

Tiny Beautiful Things: Advice from Dear Sugar

- Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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A profoundly moving, heartfelt, and transformative collection of advice on life, love, and being human.

Tiny Beautiful Things: Advice from Dear Sugar compiles the best of her Dear Sugar columns, offering wisdom, honesty, humour, and compassion for the challenges we all face. Through letters from people of all backgrounds seeking guidance, Strayed provides advice grounded in her own experiences, making readers feel seen, understood, and less alone. This book reveals that sometimes it’s the small, seemingly insignificant moments—the “tiny beautiful things”—that leave the biggest impact on our lives. Raw, relatable, and deeply empathetic, it’s a life-altering read that encourages reflection, healing, and gratitude.

“Most things will be okay eventually, but not everything will be. Sometimes you’ll put up a good fight and lose. Sometimes you’ll hold on really hard and realize there is no choice but to let go. Acceptance is a small, quiet room.”

– Cheryl Strayed

The Idiot by Elif Batuman

- Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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A sharp, witty, and beautifully observant coming-of-age novel about self-discovery, intellect, and first love.

The Idiot by Elif Batuman follows 18-year-old Harvard freshman Selin, the daughter of Turkish immigrants, as she navigates the confounding, exhilarating world of college life in 1995. From enrolling in unfamiliar classes to forming a tense, peculiar friendship with Ivan, a slightly older Hungarian student, Selin’s experiences highlight the awkward, sometimes absurd realities of growing up. Batuman captures the confusion, naivety, and self-consciousness of youth with humour, subtle sarcasm, and a keen eye for detail. This novel is a brilliant exploration of identity, intellectual curiosity, and the peculiar exhilaration of unrequited love, blending moments of heartbreak, awkwardness, and laugh-out-loud wit into a story that is as charming as it is insightful.

“It can be really exasperating to look back at your past. What’s the matter with you? I want to ask her, my younger self, shaking her shoulder. If I did that, she would probably cry. Maybe I would cry, too.”

Elif Batuman

Writers & Lovers by Lily King

Writers and Lovers by Lily King a Book to Read in Your 20s

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A heartfelt, introspective, and beautifully written novel about ambition, love, and self-discovery.

Writers & Lovers follows Casey, a young writer in her twenties struggling to find her voice while navigating the uncertainties of early adulthood. After the death of her mother, Casey faces personal and professional obstacles, balancing creative ambition with the desire for meaningful relationships. King captures the self-doubt, resilience, and messy beauty of figuring out life, making this novel a deeply relatable story for anyone trying to carve their own path. For readers in their twenties, Writers & Lovers is a poignant reminder that it’s okay to not have everything figured out, and that the journey of discovering who you are can be as important as the destination.

“I squat there and think about how you get trained early on as a woman to perceive how others are perceiving you, at the great expense of what you yourself are feeling about them. Sometimes you mix the two up in a terrible tangle that’s hard to unravel.”

– Lily King

Sorrow and Bliss by Meg Mason

Sorrow and Bliss by Meg Mason a - Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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A deeply moving, witty, and unflinchingly honest novel about mental health, love, and self-discovery.

Sorrow and Bliss follows Martha, a woman in her twenties, grappling with her mental health and the effects it has on her relationships, including her marriage to Patrick. Through Martha’s journey, Mason explores identity, belonging, and the challenges of understanding oneself in a world that often feels overwhelming. The novel offers a candid and compassionate look at the messy realities of life, reminding readers that it’s okay to not have everything figured out. With its mix of humour, heartbreak, and emotional insight, Sorrow and Bliss is a poignant story for anyone navigating personal growth, relationships, and the pursuit of self-acceptance.

“Everything is broken and messed up and completely fine. That is what life is. It’s only the ratios that change. usually on their own.”

Meg Mason

Bite Back by Hannah Ferguson

Bite Back by Hannah Ferguson a - Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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A digestible and inspiring teaching on what it is to simply exist in today’s society.

Bite Back is a fierce and empowering manifesto for women ready to reclaim their voices in a world that often silences them. Through personal anecdotes and cultural critique, Hannah Ferguson challenges societal norms and inspires readers to live authentically and unapologetically. This book is perfect for anyone in their twenties striving to build confidence and challenge the status quo.

Women Living Deliciously by Florence Given

Women Living Deliciously by Florence Given - Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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A guide that encourages women to break free from societal shame and perfectionism to embrace the everyday pleasures and fullness of life.

As you grow older, it’s normal to lose the joys you once experienced in youth. This book reminds and teaches you how to love the little things in life and embrace the deliciousness that exists in each day. With Florence Given’s bold, inspiring voice, Women Living Deliciously offers the courage and permission to step closer to the fully expansive, joyful life you deserve—right now, not later, and not when you’re “perfect.”

The Age of Magical Overthinking by Amanda Irrationality

The age of Magical Overthinking by Amanda Montell a- Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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For the anxious girlies, read this for a warm hug. This book provides relief to your thought processes and reintroduces you to the ability to reason with yourself again.

In this book, Irrationality explores the ways in which overthinking and seeking perfection can interfere with our ability to live authentically and make decisions with confidence. With humour and vulnerability, she delves into the habits and patterns of overthinking that many young women experience, offering insights on how to break free from these mental traps. For women in their twenties, The Age of Magical Overthinking is both a relatable and empowering read, reminding you that it’s okay not to have everything figured out and that embracing imperfection is a powerful act of self-acceptance. This book encourages you to trust your intuition, quiet the noise of doubt, and take action with less fear of making mistakes, ultimately empowering you to live more fully in the present.

“I think what I really want is to treat life less like a war. Wouldn’t we have less Imposter Syndrome and fewer actual imposters if we just lowered our standards a bit? Modern productivity dogma encourages us to act fast, and milk our exceptionalism for all it’s worth. Under that kind of pressure, perhaps the truest rebellion is to embrace our ordinariness”

– Amanda Montell

Books to Read in Your 20s about Relationships

Cleopatra and Frankenstein by Coco Mellors

Cleopatra and Frakenstein by Coco Mellors - Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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A beautifully written, emotionally charged, and introspective novel about love, identity, and self-discovery.

This novel follows Cleopatra, a young artist, and Frankenstein, a successful but troubled older man, as they navigate an intense and complicated relationship. As their romance unfolds, they confront ambition, vulnerability, and the challenge of staying true to themselves while connecting with another person. Mellors captures the messy, beautiful process of self-discovery and the ways relationships shape—but do not define—our sense of self. For readers in their twenties, Cleopatra and Frankenstein is a poignant exploration of balancing independence with intimacy and embracing the complexities of love and personal growth.

“People are like this too, you know,” he says eventually. “We break. We put ourselves back together. The cracks are the best part. You don’t have to hide them.”

– coco mellors

Call it What You Want by Alissa Derogatis

Call it What You Want by Alissa Derogatis - Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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A bold, empowering, and thought-provoking novel about identity, relationships, and self-discovery.

Call It What You Want follows a group of women challenging societal expectations and embracing their individuality. Through their journeys, the novel explores ambition, love, and personal growth, highlighting the importance of defining oneself on one’s own terms. Derogatis captures the struggles and triumphs of forging an authentic life while confronting external pressures. For readers in their twenties, Call It What You Want is a powerful reminder that it’s okay to trust your instincts, prioritise your desires, and embrace the freedom to live life your way.

“You deserve someone who goes out of their way to make it obvious that they want you in their life.”

– Alissa derogatis

Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton

Everything I know about love by Dolly Alderton - Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

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A witty, heartfelt, and deeply relatable exploration of love, friendship, and self-discovery.

Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton follows her journey through the highs and lows of relationships—both romantic and platonic—while navigating the chaos of her twenties. Through sharp humour and raw vulnerability, Alderton shares personal anecdotes that illuminate the challenges of growing up, learning to love yourself, and cherishing true friendships. For readers in their twenties, this book is a reminder that it’s okay not to have everything figured out and that embracing mistakes, growth, and triumphs is all part of the journey.

“I would like to pause the story a moment to talk about ‘nothing will change’. I’ve heard it said to me repeatedly by women I love during my twenties when they move in with boyfriends, get engaged, move abroad, get married, get pregnant. ‘Nothing will change.’ It drives me bananas. Everything will change. Everything will change. The love we have for each other stays the same, but the format, the tone, the regularity and the intimacy of our friendship will change for ever.”

– Dolly alderton

I Could Live Here Forever by Hanna Halperin

I could Live here forever by Hannah Halperin - Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

Get the book on Amazon (US) | Get the book on Amazon (AU)

A poignant, deeply emotional, and thought-provoking exploration of love and personal growth.

I Could Live Here Forever by Hanna Halperin follows an intense and flawed relationship, capturing the vulnerability, choices, and complexities that shape love in your twenties. Through a nuanced and realistic portrayal, Halperin examines how relationships influence personal growth and self-understanding. For readers in their twenties, this novel is a powerful reminder of the lessons love teaches us and the ways it helps define who we are.

“There are certain memories I’d never write down or tell anyone. I know what happens when you write things down. They change shape. Some of the feeling goes away. Things on the page are never as rich as they are in your head, as they were in real life.”

Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

Good Material by Dolly Alderton

Get the book on Amazon (US) | Get the book on Amazon (AU)

A sharply funny, heartfelt, and exquisitely relatable story about love, heartbreak, and self-discovery.

Good Material by Dolly Alderton follows Andy, a 35-year-old stand-up comedian, reeling from the breakup of his three-year relationship with Jen. As he navigates the chaos of heartbreak, a stalled career, and the challenges of thirtysomething life in London, Andy clings to understanding why the relationship ended, believing that if he solves the puzzle, Jen might return. Alderton infuses the story with observational humour, poignant insights into romantic power dynamics, and a clever reflection on the ways heartbreak shapes us. With a twist revealing Jen’s perspective, Good Material offers a nuanced, Hornbyesque take on love, friendship, and growing up, making it a thoroughly engaging read for anyone exploring the messy, complicated terrain of adult relationships.

“Be alone, Jen. You know how to be alone without being lonely. Do you know how rare that is? Do you know how much I wish I could do that? It’s a wonderful thing you’ve got going on there.”

– Dolly alderton

You’re Overthinking It: Find Lifelong Love By Being Your True Self by Sabrina Alexis Bendory

- Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

Get the book on Amazon (US) | Get the book on Amazon (AU)

An insightful guide to understanding love and relationships.

Bendory addresses the challenges of overthinking, repetitive dating patterns, and feeling powerless in love, offering strategies to become your true self and attract the kind of partner who complements you. With actionable advice on recognising red flags, understanding relationship dynamics, and cultivating self-awareness, this book is helpful for anxious or analytical thinkers who want to stop chasing love and start choosing it. It’s a thoughtful, accessible guide for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of modern romance.

Adelaide: A Novel by Genevieve Wheeler

Adelaide by Geneieve Wheeler - Best Books to Read in Your 20s for Females

Get the book on Amazon (US) | Get the book on Amazon (AU)

For those who have been in a long situation and put others before themselves.

Adelaide is a tender and introspective story about heartbreak, healing, and the process of finding yourself. This novel captures the raw emotions of navigating love and loss in your twenties while emphasising the importance of self-compassion. It’s a touching reminder that growth often comes from life’s most challenging experiences.

“There are parts of our hearts we give away. Not lend, but sacrifice entirely. And there are some people to whom we give these pieces, knowing we’ll never really get them back.”

– Genevieve Wheeler

Other Resources You Might Find Helpful

  • How to make reading feel like comfort instead of a chore
  • 15 friends-to-lovers romance books you should add to your reading list
  • 15 Romance Fantasy Books You Should Read This Year
  • Books everyone should read at least once in their life
  • Media to consume if you’re feeling lost in your twenties

📌 Bookish Resources You Need

📚 Reading Notion Template: Keep your book notes, annotations, and reading stats neatly organised with this interactive Notion template designed just for readers.

📖 E–Reader: Check out the e-reader I use every day—perfect for diving into your TBR list anytime, anywhere.

📊 Tracking App: Easily track your reads and stats with Fable—all in one place. Use my referral link to get $5 credit!

📸 Camera Gear: If you’re curious about the camera gear I’ve used for my photos, find out what’s in my camera bag here.

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Hi, I'm Kelly! I'm an Asian Australian content creator from Western Australia. I inspire others to get outside and explore the world. Join my adventures and discover my best travel & photography tips!

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🌱 Here are a few things I’m choosing to be more in 🌱 Here are a few things I’m choosing to be more intentional about this year. 🙇🏻‍♀️

Just a few small, quiet shifts I’m making in my mid-twenties that will compound in the background.

📌 Products featured in the carousel.

📝 The full post sharing my passive income streams is available on my Substack (link in bio).

📷 The camera is from @Sony, and I use a zoom lens from @Tamron.

💸 One of the habits saving me money this year is adopting a low-buy mindset. I’ve written an entire guide about this on my Substack.

📚 Reading statistics are from @StoryGraph. I also share monthly book recommendations in my newsletter.

#twenties #habits #europe #switzerland
📱 Apps I wish I knew about earlier in my twenties 📱 Apps I wish I knew about earlier in my twenties 🙇🏻‍♀️

These are a few digital discoveries I genuinely wish I’d found earlier — small things that add up to a calmer, more intentional everyday life.

👉🏻 Swipe through to see my current favourites — maybe you’ll find one to try.

📌 Apps to download for 2026:

💰 Cashback apps to earn money back on your purchases while shopping online.

📽️ An app for logging everything you watch and discovering movie recommendations. You can also use @Notion for more customisation options — my Notion templates are linked in my bio.

📝 An app to find long-form content and subscribe to newsletters.

📖 Access free books and audiobooks through your local library.

📚 Track your reading stats and discover book recommendations.

💸 Stay on top of your finances by tracking your expenses and income.

🙇🏻‍♀️ Stay organised by managing all your projects and tasks in one place.

💭 Do you have any app recommendations?

💭 Do you have any app recommendations?

#apps #twenties #productivity
Summer days in Zurich ☀️🇨🇭 Zurich was the first p Summer days in Zurich ☀️🇨🇭

Zurich was the first place I visited solo in Europe, and it quickly became one of my favourite cities to explore and photograph. It’s incredibly walkable, scenic at every turn, and filled with quiet moments along the water that make you want to slow down and stay a little longer.

I ended up taking hundreds of photos — but here are a few favourites from my short stay. Even better, many of the places I visited were completely free, which made exploring the city feel easy and spontaneous.

I only spent about a day and a half in Zurich, but I’d love to return someday to discover more. Some highlights included the peaceful views from Lindenhof, stumbling across murals painted in a police station, and golden hour along the River Limmat with the iconic white swans drifting past.

Have you ever visited Zurich?

📌 Tips for visiting Zurich, Switzerland 🚆 If you’re visiting multiple cities or regions, consider getting the Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats.

💧 Take advantage of the 1,200+ public fountains — the water is fresh, clean, and safe to drink.

🍴For affordable meals, grab food from Coop or Migros and enjoy it by Lake Zurich.

☀️Visit in summer? Join the locals for a swim in the lake or river — it’s such a fun (and free) experience.

🛍️Keep in mind that most shops close on Sundays, so plan ahead.

🚉 Public transport is incredibly punctual and easy to use — download the SBB Mobile app to make navigating simple.

📷 All photos were edited on @lightroom and taken on my @sony A6400 camera.

#switzerland #europe #travelphotography #photoediting #lightroom @visitzurich
🙇🏻‍♀️ Part 8 of media to read in your twenties ✨ 🙇🏻‍♀️ Part 8 of media to read in your twenties ✨

Here’s your next round of long-form reads for navigating your twenties.

💌 Enjoyed this post? I share weekly media recommendations (books, films, articles, podcasts & more) in my newsletter—link in bio if you’d like to join.

💡 Want even more? Check out my full “media to consume instead of doom-scrolling” series on my profile.

💭 Want the links for these articles? Sign up for my newsletter for the full list of articles + essays featured here.

#twenties #whattoread #articles
This TV show is so underrated 😭 Have you watched This TV show is so underrated 😭

Have you watched The Artful Dodger yet? 

#whattowatch #romance #tvshows #artfuldodger #yearning
This TV show is so underrated 😭 📺 TV show name in This TV show is so underrated 😭

📺 TV show name included in the video. 

#tvshow #romance #whattowatch
✨ Mindsets I’m unlearning in my mid-twenties 🙇🏻‍♀️ ✨ Mindsets I’m unlearning in my mid-twenties 🙇🏻‍♀️

Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about what it means to grow — not by becoming someone new, but by slowly unlearning the habits and mindsets that no longer serve me.

My mid-twenties have felt less like a time of “figuring everything out” and more like learning to live with greater intention — slowing down, and appreciating the small, ordinary moments that make up a life.

It’s not a dramatic transformation, just quiet shifts happening in the background of everyday routines. And somehow, those small changes feel like they matter the most.

💬 What’s something you’re unlearning lately?

🔗 If you enjoyed this post, I have a weekly newsletter that shares more content like this. You can sign up using the link in my bio.

#europe #twenties #habits
“I want to reduce my screen time” 📱🙇🏻‍♀️ After sh “I want to reduce my screen time” 📱🙇🏻‍♀️

After sharing the first round of small changes that helped me spend less time on my phone, I wanted to share a few more habits that have made a real difference in my daily life. So here’s part 2 of small changes that have helped me reduce my screen time. 

Working full-time in social media means being online is unavoidable, but I’ve been learning how to step away more intentionally and create pockets of rest throughout my day. These are simple, realistic shifts that helped me scroll less without feeling like I was missing out.

If you’ve been craving slower evenings, more focus, and a little more presence in your routine, I hope this encourages you to try one small change this week.

💭 Found this helpful? Comment “list” and I’ll send you my full guide of offline ideas, habits, and resources ✨

📌 You can explore more posts from the series over on my Substack & Instagram:

📽️ media to consume instead of doomscrolling

🙇🏻‍♀️ things to do instead of doomscrolling

🧠 how to reclaim your attention span

🪫 low-energy habits that have

#twenties #digitaldetox #habits #Europe
📝 Part 4 of media I consumed this week that sparke 📝 Part 4 of media I consumed this week that sparked curiosity 🙇🏻‍♀️

Here’s some media to help you be more intentional with your time — swap the doomscrolling for video essays and thoughtful articles that actually stay with you. 🌱

A roundup of what’s worth consuming when you want to learn something new and give your brain a little spark. ✨📚

💌 If this resonates, I share weekly recommendations (books, films, articles, podcasts + more) in my newsletter. You can sign up through the link in my bio.

💭 You can sign up for my newsletter to receive the full list of media featured here.

📝 Comment 'list' and I'll send you all the links for the media in this carousel.

#reading #habits #whattoread

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🌱 Here are a few things I’m choosing to be more in 🌱 Here are a few things I’m choosing to be more intentional about this year. 🙇🏻‍♀️

Just a few small, quiet shifts I’m making in my mid-twenties that will compound in the background.

📌 Products featured in the carousel.

📝 The full post sharing my passive income streams is available on my Substack (link in bio).

📷 The camera is from @Sony, and I use a zoom lens from @Tamron.

💸 One of the habits saving me money this year is adopting a low-buy mindset. I’ve written an entire guide about this on my Substack.

📚 Reading statistics are from @StoryGraph. I also share monthly book recommendations in my newsletter.

#twenties #habits #europe #switzerland
📱 Apps I wish I knew about earlier in my twenties 📱 Apps I wish I knew about earlier in my twenties 🙇🏻‍♀️

These are a few digital discoveries I genuinely wish I’d found earlier — small things that add up to a calmer, more intentional everyday life.

👉🏻 Swipe through to see my current favourites — maybe you’ll find one to try.

📌 Apps to download for 2026:

💰 Cashback apps to earn money back on your purchases while shopping online.

📽️ An app for logging everything you watch and discovering movie recommendations. You can also use @Notion for more customisation options — my Notion templates are linked in my bio.

📝 An app to find long-form content and subscribe to newsletters.

📖 Access free books and audiobooks through your local library.

📚 Track your reading stats and discover book recommendations.

💸 Stay on top of your finances by tracking your expenses and income.

🙇🏻‍♀️ Stay organised by managing all your projects and tasks in one place.

💭 Do you have any app recommendations?

💭 Do you have any app recommendations?

#apps #twenties #productivity
Summer days in Zurich ☀️🇨🇭 Zurich was the first p Summer days in Zurich ☀️🇨🇭

Zurich was the first place I visited solo in Europe, and it quickly became one of my favourite cities to explore and photograph. It’s incredibly walkable, scenic at every turn, and filled with quiet moments along the water that make you want to slow down and stay a little longer.

I ended up taking hundreds of photos — but here are a few favourites from my short stay. Even better, many of the places I visited were completely free, which made exploring the city feel easy and spontaneous.

I only spent about a day and a half in Zurich, but I’d love to return someday to discover more. Some highlights included the peaceful views from Lindenhof, stumbling across murals painted in a police station, and golden hour along the River Limmat with the iconic white swans drifting past.

Have you ever visited Zurich?

📌 Tips for visiting Zurich, Switzerland 🚆 If you’re visiting multiple cities or regions, consider getting the Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats.

💧 Take advantage of the 1,200+ public fountains — the water is fresh, clean, and safe to drink.

🍴For affordable meals, grab food from Coop or Migros and enjoy it by Lake Zurich.

☀️Visit in summer? Join the locals for a swim in the lake or river — it’s such a fun (and free) experience.

🛍️Keep in mind that most shops close on Sundays, so plan ahead.

🚉 Public transport is incredibly punctual and easy to use — download the SBB Mobile app to make navigating simple.

📷 All photos were edited on @lightroom and taken on my @sony A6400 camera.

#switzerland #europe #travelphotography #photoediting #lightroom @visitzurich
🙇🏻‍♀️ Part 8 of media to read in your twenties ✨ 🙇🏻‍♀️ Part 8 of media to read in your twenties ✨

Here’s your next round of long-form reads for navigating your twenties.

💌 Enjoyed this post? I share weekly media recommendations (books, films, articles, podcasts & more) in my newsletter—link in bio if you’d like to join.

💡 Want even more? Check out my full “media to consume instead of doom-scrolling” series on my profile.

💭 Want the links for these articles? Sign up for my newsletter for the full list of articles + essays featured here.

#twenties #whattoread #articles
This TV show is so underrated 😭 Have you watched This TV show is so underrated 😭

Have you watched The Artful Dodger yet? 

#whattowatch #romance #tvshows #artfuldodger #yearning
This TV show is so underrated 😭 📺 TV show name in This TV show is so underrated 😭

📺 TV show name included in the video. 

#tvshow #romance #whattowatch
✨ Mindsets I’m unlearning in my mid-twenties 🙇🏻‍♀️ ✨ Mindsets I’m unlearning in my mid-twenties 🙇🏻‍♀️

Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about what it means to grow — not by becoming someone new, but by slowly unlearning the habits and mindsets that no longer serve me.

My mid-twenties have felt less like a time of “figuring everything out” and more like learning to live with greater intention — slowing down, and appreciating the small, ordinary moments that make up a life.

It’s not a dramatic transformation, just quiet shifts happening in the background of everyday routines. And somehow, those small changes feel like they matter the most.

💬 What’s something you’re unlearning lately?

🔗 If you enjoyed this post, I have a weekly newsletter that shares more content like this. You can sign up using the link in my bio.

#europe #twenties #habits
“I want to reduce my screen time” 📱🙇🏻‍♀️ After sh “I want to reduce my screen time” 📱🙇🏻‍♀️

After sharing the first round of small changes that helped me spend less time on my phone, I wanted to share a few more habits that have made a real difference in my daily life. So here’s part 2 of small changes that have helped me reduce my screen time. 

Working full-time in social media means being online is unavoidable, but I’ve been learning how to step away more intentionally and create pockets of rest throughout my day. These are simple, realistic shifts that helped me scroll less without feeling like I was missing out.

If you’ve been craving slower evenings, more focus, and a little more presence in your routine, I hope this encourages you to try one small change this week.

💭 Found this helpful? Comment “list” and I’ll send you my full guide of offline ideas, habits, and resources ✨

📌 You can explore more posts from the series over on my Substack & Instagram:

📽️ media to consume instead of doomscrolling

🙇🏻‍♀️ things to do instead of doomscrolling

🧠 how to reclaim your attention span

🪫 low-energy habits that have

#twenties #digitaldetox #habits #Europe
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