Books That Remind Us Who We Are

Lately, I’ve been reaching for fiction. The kind that lets you slip into another life for a while, wandering through someone else’s heartbreak, hope, and transformation. It’s not an escape, really — it’s a reminder. Because the best stories don’t just entertain us. They hold up a mirror to our own courage and teach us how to fall in love with life again.

When I read, I seek out women who are more than a trope or a sidekick. These are protagonists who run companies, build communities, heal deep wounds, and stand in the storm without losing themselves. They make mistakes of course, but they use wisdom to guide their next move. By the final chapter, they’re not just in love with someone else. They’re in love with themselves.

Here are a few books that stayed with me long after I closed the cover.

Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

Elizabeth Zott is not your typical 1960s heroine. She’s a chemist, a single mother, and a woman who refuses to let societal norms dictate her worth. Through wit and grit, she turns a cooking show into a platform for teaching women to trust themselves and question everything. This one will make you laugh, cry, and want to stand a little taller.

The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune

Technically, Linus Baker is the lead here—but the female characters shine in ways that change the course of his life. Zoe, the island’s caretaker, is a force of empathy and quiet strength, guiding everyone toward love and acceptance. This is whimsical, heartwarming, and a testament to the power of chosen family.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Evelyn is unapologetically complex—ambitious, strategic, and unafraid to reinvent herself. This is not a simple love story. It’s an exploration of identity, sacrifice, and the price of chasing your dreams. Evelyn’s life is messy and glamorous, and by the end, you’ll admire her for owning every part of it.

Circe by Madeline Miller

Circe, the witch of Aiaia, is often painted as a villain in Greek mythology. Here, she tells her own story—a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and power. This is lyrical, fierce, and unforgettable, perfect for anyone navigating their own transformation.

Beach Read by Emily Henry

January Andrews is a romance novelist in a career slump, grieving her father’s death and doubting her talent. When she faces her fears head-on, creativity and joy return in unexpected ways. Light and charming, but with real depth—it’s a love story about finding yourself first.

Make some tea, wrap yourself in a comfy blanket, and curl up with your next favorite story. Let these women’s journeys remind you that no matter the setbacks, your own next chapter is waiting to be written. Anyone interested in a book club?! Let's do it!

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