These books by women for women will help you get smarter about your finances

For as long as I can remember, I have known very little about finances. Bank work, investing in mutual funds or SIPs, filing tax returns, basically anything to do with money management, was a distant and confusing conversation for me. It always seemed like something I needed an elder, usually a male one, to walk me through. Ironically, my mother was fairly well-versed in finances. Sure, she had her doubts at times and would consult her CA for the smallest queries, but she figured things out. Still, even she was subtly expected or rather encouraged, to defer to a man, whether it was her accountant, a male relative, or someone else. She, like many other women, was subtly conditioned to seek external (male) validation when it came to financial decisions, oftentimes contesting her own judgment. 

This is something that most women in India have had to deal with for a very long time. Thankfully, the narrative has been changing, especially in India. Across industries in the country, women are not only managing their personal finances but also building strong, successful careers in finance, from investment banking to financial planning, auditing, etc. Women are stepping into boardrooms and leadership roles in industries that were once gatekept from them. It’s a quiet but firm revolution, built on access, education, and a renewed sense of agency.

That said, financial literacy is still very much a work in progress for many women, and that’s okay. There’s confusion, hesitation, and more often than not, a sense of not knowing where or how to begin. That’s where the right resources can help. Now there’s no shortage of books on money and finance—one Google search will tell you that. But the problem with some of these books is that they come with a side of condescension and, more often than not, a tone that feels too dense to relate to. But somewhere among these is a selection of titles written by women, for women who actually get it. These books break down complex financial concepts, offer practical advice, and most importantly, speak in a language that’s approachable, empowering, and refreshingly non-condescending.

So whether you're just beginning to take control of your finances or looking to grow your wealth with intention, these reads are an excellent place to start.

Money: A Love Story by Kate Northrup

Kate Northrup blends personal storytelling with practical exercises in this book to help you heal your relationship with money. Drawing from her own journey from debt to financial freedom, Northrup encourages readers—especially women—to tackle emotional roadblocks, shift their money mindset, and build a values-driven financial life. It’s part inspiration, part actionable guide, making it ideal for those who want finances to feel less intimidating and more empowering.

Clever Girl Finance by Bola Sokunbi

Clever Girl Finance by Bola Sokunbi is an approachable, no-jargon guide that helps women master budgeting, ditch debt, save effectively, and start investing with confidence. Drawing from her own experience of saving $100,000 in three years, Sokunbi breaks down complex money topics into relatable, actionable steps—making it perfect for beginners ready to take control of their financial future.

Wealth Secrets by Deborah Owens

This one is a powerful, empowering read that helps women break free from financial stagnation and level up using high-net-worth strategies previously reserved for the elite. Drawing on her extensive experience in financial services, Owens demystifies investing, tech-based wealth-building, and legacy planning—making this book a practical, motivational blueprint for women ready to level up financially. 

Get Good with Money by Tiffany Aliche

This one is a friendly, no-intimidation guide that breaks down money management into 10 simple steps she calls “financial wholeness.” Through personal stories, clear advice, and easy-to-follow tools, Aliche helps readers tackle debt, save smart, and start investing—making it feel like you’re learning from a wise, supportive friend who genuinely wants you to win with money.

Women and Money by Suze Orman

Women & Money by Suze Orman is an empowering guide that tackles the unique challenges women face with finances, from underconfidence to underpayment. With her signature no-nonsense warmth, Orman offers practical steps to save, invest, and protect your future—while reminding readers that taking control of money is one of the most powerful forms of self-care.

Know Yourself, Know Your Money by Rachel Cruze

Rachel Cruze’s book helps you dig deeper than budgets and spreadsheets to understand your money habits and beliefs. Through easy-to-understand ideas and relatable stories, she guides you to uncover the “why” behind your financial choices—helping you make smarter decisions that truly fit your life. It’s a great pick if you want to build money confidence by getting to know yourself better first.

Financial Feminist by Tori Dunlap

Financial Feminist by Tori Dunlap feels like a candid conversation with a friend who’s all about helping you take charge of your money—without the confusing jargon or pressure. Dunlap breaks down the financial system’s challenges for women, pairing it with practical steps on budgeting, investing, and negotiating pay. It’s perfect for anyone ready to build confidence, claim financial independence, and rewrite the rules on their own terms.

The Women’s Guide to Successful Investing by Nancy Tengler

Reading The Women’s Guide to Successful Investing by Nancy Tengler is like having a patient and experienced friend guide you through the world of investing. It breaks down complex concepts into simple, actionable advice tailored for women, helping you build confidence and take control of your financial future. With practical tips and a clear focus on long-term growth, it’s a great companion for anyone looking to make smart investment choices without feeling overwhelmed.

All images: Amazon India

Also read: Inside the mindset shift that’s helping women take charge of their financial futures

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