Reading books with strong female characters is always a delight. It feels very empowering reading about these strong women who stand against the worst of adversities. Below are the 12 best books with strong female characters.
P.S. For each book, we have written why we specifically liked the book and recommended it to you. All books are arranged in alphabetical order. Because duh, they all are just awesome.
So now, let’s get started!! Here are the books with strong female characters:
#1 1Q84 by Haruki Murakami
About the Book
Title: 1Q84
Author: Haruki Murakami
Genre: Parallel Universe Fiction, Fantasy, Dystopian Fiction
Publisher: Penguin Random House Vintage Books
Type: Standalone
Pages: 1318
Goodreads Rating: 3.9 / 5
The year is 1984 and the city is Tokyo. A young woman named Aomame follows a taxi driver’s enigmatic suggestion and begins to notice puzzling discrepancies in the world around her. She has entered, she realizes, a parallel existence, which she calls 1Q84 —“Q is for ‘question mark.’ A world that bears a question.” Meanwhile, an aspiring writer named Tengo takes on a suspect ghostwriting project. He becomes so wrapped up with the work and its unusual author that, soon, his previously placid life begins to come unraveled. As Aomame’s and Tengo’s narratives converge over the course of this single year, we learn of the profound and tangled connections that bind them ever closer. A love story, a mystery, a fantasy, a novel of self-discovery, a dystopia to rival George Orwell’s — 1Q84 is Haruki Murakami’s most ambitious undertaking yet.
Why do we recommend this book?
Home is such a layered and strong character. She comes off as cold and calculating in the beginning but as the story progresses, you can see her human side. She is ruthless but she has a cause. Home is complicated and yet so admirable. That’s the beauty of Murakami’s writing, he makes you fall in love with his characters.
If you want to buy/gift,1Q84 by Haruki Murakami, click on the link below: 👇
#2 A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini
About the book
Title: A Thousand Splendid Suns
Author: Khaled Hosseini
Genre: Domestic Fiction
Publisher: Riverhead Books
Type: Standalone
Pages: 162
Goodreads Rating: 4.4 / 5
This book, A Thousand Splendid Suns, portrays the lives of people in Afghanistan; especially the women. It tells us about 30 years of Afghan history. And this story is about two women, Mariam and Laila who are born decades apart. But then, they both are bought together by war, loss, and fate. And, it is their story of surviving through Russian invasions and Taliban rule in Afghanistan. This book is an amazing story of unforgettable and unforgiving times.
Why do we recommend this book?
Both, Mariam and Laila, grow so beautifully throughout the book. It is a treat to watch. This story of unexpected love, friendship, and betrayal is going to be an enjoyable read.
To know our full thoughts on this book, click here: Review Of A Thousand Splendid Suns (Spoiler Free) – Favbookshelf
If you want to buy/gift A Thousand Splendid Suns, click on the link below:👇
#3 Academy of Stardom by Bea Paige
About the Book
Title: Academy of Stardom
Author: Bea Paige
Genre: Reverse Harem, Romance
Type: Series
No. of Books in it: 4
Books in it: #1 Freestyle, #2 Lyrical, #3 Breakers, #4 Finale
Goodreads Rating: 4.5 / 5
So Penny, the main character, has just been accepted to one of the best dancing academies. She is very excited to leave her home in the rundown part of London and join there. But then, she is not the only one joining the academy. Zeno, York, Zayn, and Dax are joining too. They all are the boys that broke her heart when she was sixteen. But now, they all have changed a lot. And this series is about how they find each other back, go through all the hurt feelings and anger left from the past.
P.S.: This book is available on Kindle Unlimited. If you have subscribed to it, then you can read this book for free.
Why do we recommend this book?
This series was AMAZING!!!! The writing style, the plot, characters, world-building, the chemistry and passion, and everything about it was just perfect. I would recommend this series for its strong female character.
If you want to buy/gift Academy of Stardom Book1, click on the link below:👇
#4 Ascension of the Phoenix by Jessica Piro
About the Book
Title: Ascension of the Phoenix
Author: Jessica Piro
Genre: Action thriller
Publisher: Self-published
Type: Series
No. of books in the series: 2
Books in the Series: #1 Ascension of the Phoenix, #2 The Dragon of Russia
Pages: 298
Goodreads Rating: 4.1 / 5
Detective Leila Wells is a force to be reckoned with. She has closed every case she has worked on by successfully catching the criminal every time, except for the elusive serial killer Bryan Foster. The next time Bryan Foster returns, prowling the streets of New York, it leads to a massive tragedy in Leila’s life. Devastated, Leila finds solace in street fights and gets invited to the Realms Fighting Tag Tournament. Through fighting, will she be able to satisfy the phoenix inside her that’s ready to take flight?
Why do we recommend this book?
I loved this book for the strong female protagonist, Leila Wells. She is put into the direst of situations and she fights, falls, and rises back every time. It is very empowering to read about such a great female character
If you want to buy/ gift Ascension of the Pheonix by Jessica Piro, click on the link below: 👇
#5 Ahalya’s Awakening by Kavita Kane
About the Book
Title: Ahalya’s Awakening
Author: Kavita Kane
Genre: Indian Mythology
Publisher: Westland
Type: Standalone
Pages: 356
Goodreads Rating: 3.9 / 5
It’s a well-known legend that Ahalya was cursed to turn into stone by her husband Rishi Gautum for infidelity. But is it true? Why was she cursed truly? Or did she truly commit infidelity? And if so why? In this gripping retelling, Kavita Kane tells us about Ahalya’s life from birth till after the curse and how it affected her.
Why do we recommend this book?
The author has presented this mythological story from the eye of a female lead wonderfully. Everything about this book was amazing. From its plot to its writing style, to the world-building, to the covers and characters… everything is perfect.
If you want to buy/gift Ahalya’s Awakening, click on the link below: 👇
#6 Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
About the Book
Title: Little Women
Author: Louisa May Alcott
Genre: Fiction, Children’s literature
Publisher: Roberts Brothers
Type: Series
No. of books in the series: 4
Books in the series: #1 Little Women, #2 Good Wives, #3 Little Men, #4 Jo’s Boys
Goodreads Rating: 4.1 / 5
This is the story of four distinctly different sisters, Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy, who are raised by their mother, Marmee, in a small town in Massachusetts. The girls grow in poverty as their father serves in the army during the American Civil War. As the story progresses, each girl faces and overcomes their demons, guided by their Marmee. Tomboy Jo is at the heart of the story as she forms a friendship with wealthy neighbor Laurie, thus, kicking off the narrative.
Why do we recommend this book?
The book is completely female-centric. Each of the four sisters is so different from each other and in the center is Jo who is outspoken and tomboyish and does not bend to the norms of the world. It is a great book with feminist themes and it needs to be read and reread.
If you want to buy/gift, Little Women Book 1, click on the link below: 👇
#7 Mahashweta by Sudha Murty
About the Book
Title: Mahashweta
Author: Sudha Murty
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Publisher: India Penguin
Pages: 160
Type: Standalone
Goodreads Rating: 4 / 5
Anupama’s fairytale marriage to Anand falls apart when she discovers a white patch on her foot and learns that she has leukoderma. Abandoned by her uncaring in-laws and insensitive husband, she is forced to return to her father’s home. The social stigma of a married woman living with her parents, her stepmother’s continual barbs, and the discrimination that accompanies her skin condition, forces her to consider suicide. But, she is determined to rebuild her life against all odds. And this book, Mahashweta is about her struggles and her courage.
Why do we recommend this book?
Mahashweta is an inspiring story of Anupama’s courage and resilience in a world of illusions and betrayals. The author has as well done a nice job in letting people know about Leukoderma and the social stigma surrounding it.
If you want to buy/gift Mahashweta, click on the link below:👇
#8 The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
About the Book
Title: The Book Thief
Author: Markus Zusak
Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Historical fiction
Publisher: Penguin Random House
Type: Standalone
Pages: 584
Goodreads Rating: 4.4 / 5
Death narrates the story of Liesel Meminger, a 9-year-old German girl with a penchant for stealing books. The story is set in Nazi Germany during the beginning of the Second World War. Liesel is practically an orphan when her mother drops her at the foster home in Molching. With the help of her foster father Hans Hubermann, she discovers her love for books and thus grows her penchant for stealing books. She finds a thrill in stealing books, and that’s what keeps her going amidst the war, Nazi Youth meetings, and book burnings.
Why do we recommend this book?
The story is harrowing and beautiful at the same time. Liesel is a wonderful character. She goes through so much, yet she manages to find happiness. Her circumstances make her stronger and she survives through it all.
If you want to buy/gift, The Book Thief by Markus Zusak, click on the link below: 👇
#9 The Hunger Games Series by Suzanne Collins
About the Book
Title: The Hunger Games
Author: Suzanne Collins
Genre: Sci-Fi, Dystopian, Fantasy
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Type: Series
No. of Books in the series: 3
Books in the series: #1 The Hunger Games, #2 Catching Fire, #3 Mockingjay
Goodreads Rating: 4.3 / 5
The story is set in a dystopian world. Capitol is the center of the city of Panem. The city is divided into 12 districts that surround the Capitol. To avoid rebellion, the Capitol conducts a ceremony every year. Each district has to send a boy and a girl tribute every year to participate in The Hunger Games, where they all have to fight each other to death, and only one can come out as the champion. This year Katniss’s sister is chosen as the tribute, so to save her sister Katniss volunteers herself. Now, Katniss and her male counterpart, Peeta, must fight against all adversities to survive the deadly Hunger Games.
P.S.: This book is available on Kindle Unlimited. If you have subscribed to it, then you can read this book for free.
Why do we recommend this book?
It is a great female-centric dystopian novel. Katniss is not only brave, but she is smart to get through all the challenges that come her way during the game. She also leads people into a rebellion, and that is a brave move. She not only shows physical strength but also the power of her will.
If you want to buy/gift, The Hunger Games Series Book 1, click on the link below: 👇
#10 The Royal Trials Series by Tate James
About the Book
Title: The Royal Trials
Author: Tate James
Genre: Reverse Harem, Fantasy, Romance
Publisher: Foxy Publishing
Type: Series
No. of Books in the series: 3
Books in this series: #1 Imposter, #2 Seeker, #3 Heir
It should have been easy for Rybet Waise to break into the royal palace and rescue her friend. But when Rybet impersonates one of the princesses playing in the trials to not get captured, she qualifies for trials itself. Now she finds herself with no choice but to see them through. In the trials, princesses from all the 12 kingdoms compete to win the hand of the three princes. While she is supposed to fall for the three princes, she starts to fall for the three teachers, Ty, Zan, and Lee. While going through the challenges, she uncovers many secrets covering the royal palace and even the land.
Why do we recommend this book?
It was a really fun book to read. I especially loved Rybet. She is one of my favorite fictional characters now. Her love interests were also awesome. There were lots of twists and turns in the books which I enjoyed.
P.S.: This book is available on Kindle Unlimited. If you have subscribed to it, then you can read this book for free.
If you want to buy/gift, The Royal series Book 1, click on the link below: 👇
#11 The Girl Who Lived by Christopher Greyson
About the Book
Title: The Girl Who Lived
Author: Christopher Greyson
Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Crime
Publisher: Greyson Media
Type: Standalone
Pages: 397
Goodreads Rating: 3.9 / 5
The authorities have closed the case despite Faith claiming that she has seen a murderer who had killed her sister. She nicknamed him “Ratface”. But, the local law enforcement had closed the case claiming Faith’s father to be the killer. And this causes Faith a lot of trauma. Eventually, she ends up being institutionalized. So, this story begins when Faith leaves the mental institution and returns home as an adult. And this mystery is still unsolved. That is when Faith herself decides to find the killer. And this book is her journey of doing that. The Girl Who Lived tells us the story of Faith, the lone survivor of brutal multiple killings.
P.S.: This book is available on Kindle Unlimited. If you have subscribed to it, then you can read this book for free.
Why do we recommend this book?
I LOVED this book and how fast-paced and well-written it was. It is truly an awesome read!
If you want to buy/gift The Girl Who Lived, click on the link below:👇
#12 The Song of Ice and Fire Series by George R.R. Martin
About the Book
Title: The Song of Ice and Fire Series
Author: George R.R. Martin
Genre: Epic fantasy, Politics
Publisher: Harper Voyager Books
Type: Series
No. of Books in the series: 5
Books in the series: #1 A Game of Thrones, #2 A Clash of Kings, #3 A Storm of Swords, #4 A Feast for Crows, #5 A Dance with Dragons
Goodreads Rating: 4.4 / 5
The Song of Ice and Fire is set in the fantastical world of Westeros. An epic war ensues between the great houses of Westeros to claim the throne after the death of King Robert Baratheon. Meanwhile, in the East, the last living Targaryen raises an army to claim her rightful throne.
Why do we recommend this book?
Although the book is a fantasy set in a fictional world in Medieval times, it feels very relevant in its political topics. All the main characters have their POVs in the five books and two of my favorite POV chapters are of Danaerys Targaryen and Arya Stark. Both these characters are so powerful and have so much in common. Both of them lost their families and have been through the worst of circumstances. While Arya fights against it all to reunite with her remaining family, Danaerys want to take back the throne that is rightfully hers.
If you want to buy/gift, The Song of Ice and Fire Series by George R.R Martin, click on the link below: 👇
P.S: Some books recommended here are available on Kindle Unlimited. If you have subscribed to it, then you can read these books for free. Check out this article: Is Kindle Unlimited Worth It?
SO, to conclude here is the list of the Best 6 Books with Strong Female Characters:
| 1. | 1Q84 by Haruki Murakami | Buy This Book |
| 2. | A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini | Buy This Book |
| 3. | Academy of Stardom by Bea Paige | Buy This Book |
| 4. | Ascension of the Phoenix by Jessica Piro | Buy the Book |
| 5. | Ahalya’s Awakening by Kavita Kane | Buy the Book |
| 6. | Little Women by Louisa May Alcott | Buy This Book |
| 7. | Mahashweta by Sudha Murty | Buy the Book |
| 8. | The Book Thief by Markus Zusak | Buy This Book |
| 9. | The Hunger Games Series by Suzanne Collins | Buy This Book-set |
| 10. | The Royal Trials Series by Tate James | Buy this Book |
| 11. | The Girl Who Lived by Christopher Greyson | Buy the Book |
| 12. | The Song of Ice and Fire Series by George R.R. Martin | Buy This Book |
All the mentioned here have inspirational and strong female characters. Do read them.
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- Review of The Hunger Games Series (Spoiler-Free) | Favbookshelf
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This is one awesome article.Much thanks again. Really Great.
Im obliged for the blog post.Thanks Again. Fantastic.