You may never have heard of Aphra Behn but she was an extremely popular and highly regarded English playwright and novelist in the mid 17th century. In fact, she is regarded to be the first “professional” woman writer of English literature. But Aphra was more than just a writer – she had an incredibly interesting and fascinating life.

These books are a must read for twenty-first century women: from feminist philosophy to artful erotica to laugh out loud fiction. This list of books includes both fiction and non-fiction and any woman out there who is struggling with her love life, career, health, or sexuality will do herself quite a service to read these books... Be inspired - be empowered!

If you'd like some empowerment in the New Year forget you girlfriend's advice and check out these must read books for women instead. Instead of writing about trite New Year’s resolutions - lose weight, become healthier, or find love - I’ve decided to write a blog about 7 books that can change any woman’s life for the better. Not to say that losing weight, becoming healthier, and/or finding love are not excellent goals, but I think women could use a little something different.