The Top Ten Books All Single Women Should Read

BUBookCoverI’ve wanted to write this blog for a really long time. Since I am a bookworm, the #1 way I get inspired in whatever season of life I’m in is through the written word. While there are a TON of books out there that I think send the wrong messages to singles (anything having to do with “make any man fall in love with you” or “get married in 6 months or less by reading this book!”)…there are also some really great books out there that have inspired, challenged, and motivated me to embrace my single life. And now I want to share those books with you! Some of them you may heard of…some of them you probably haven’t…but ALL of them are guaranteed to make you laugh, make you think, and make you a little more confident to say “I’m single because I’m TOO FABULOUS TO SETTLE.” 🙂

10. Angry Conversations With God by Susan E. Isaacs – For any single woman who has ever had moments of feeling like God has forgotten you…this book is for you. A friend introduced me to this book and all I had to do was read the back cover to be sold. Unhappy with how her love life is going and still single at age 40, Susan decides to call God to the carpet by taking him to “couple’s therapy.” Susan’s rocky, real, raw, HONEST relationship with God was something I could relate to immediately, as one who has never tiptoed politely around God and has had more than a few wrestling matches with him myself about life and love.  Wildly funny and exceptionally moving, this book had me laughing hysterically one minute and crying just as hysterically the next. Does Susan find her Happily Ever After at the end of the book? You’ll have to read it to find out.

9. It’s Called a Breakup Because It’s Broken by Greg Behrendt – You might have heard of Greg’s book He’s Just Not That Into You (that just might be popping up later on this list), but have you heard of his follow-up book? For anyone who has ever been through a breakup (and who hasn’t?), this book is like the Breakup Bible. And it comes from a man, so it’s like having a built-in guy friend to be the voice of reason in your post-breakup, driving by the guy’s house, stalking his Facebook page misery. I’ve actually read this book over and over again after almost every breakup I’ve ever been through and can’t recommend it enough. Throw out the Ben & Jerry’s and reach for this book instead. It’ll save you hundreds of dollars in therapy!

8.  One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp – This book needs to be read by every person, single or not. I can’t tell you how much this book changed my life, my thought processes, my approach to happiness. Ann is a such a beautiful writer, it feels almost as though you’re reading poetry. She details her journey to list 1,000 things in her life to be grateful for and how that journey changed her life. How finding joy in little things brought even bigger things into her life. How learning to simply say THANK YOU and show gratitude opened the door to joy in her heart. This book opened my eyes to a whole layer of life and joy and blessings that I spent most of my life staring blindly at.

7.  Passion & Purity by Elisabeth Elliot – This was one of the first books I read after giving my life to God at age 20. And though it’s written from a Christian perspective, it is honestly for anyone striving to honor their bodies and remain pure until marriage. Elisabeth is very vulnerable and open about her struggle to hold out for God’s best and to trust His perfect timing in her life, and the love story between her and her eventual husband, Jim Elliott, is completely captivating and inspiring to anyone who has also struggled to trust God completely by submitting their love life to Him. I’ve read this book numerous times and every time it blessed me in a new way, and always renews my hope that no matter how uncertain my path might look NOW, God has a plan for my life that goes far beyond anything I could ever imagine.

6. Daring Greatly by Brene Brown – This book absolutely shook me to my core, and then shook me some more. It is a complete game-changer for anyone, married or single, who is looking to lead a more authentic, transparent life. No matter where we’re at in our lives, vulnerability is necessary to build the career and the relationships and the lives that we dream of. So many of us hide behind walls of shame and self doubt and fear, we never allow anyone to get close enough to us to see the real us, and this book is all about tearing down those walls to walk in the freedom of Just. Being. You. If you’re tired of settling for just breezing through life at the status quo, this book will show you how to love yourself for exactly who you are instead of who the world thinks you should be while challenging you to lead a bigger, bolder, braver life.

5. The Between Boyfriends Book by Cindy Chupack – Prepare to laugh out loud through this entire book. Reading this collection of essays by former writer for Sex & the City Cindy Chupack is like sitting down to dinner with your four best girlfriends and swapping stories about your wildest and funniest dating and life fiascos until you’re all breathless with laughter. Anytime I need a little pick-me-up in my single girl walk, I reach for my very worn copy of this book. If you’ve ever had a bad date, experienced a drive-by relationship, or wondered if you’re the last single girl left on the face of this planet – this book is for you. Cindy sympathizes with the often jaw-droppingly unbelievable situations in love and life that single ladies frequently find ourselves in and helps find the silver lining in even the most heinous of awkward dates or painful breakups. Plus, she’ll just make you laugh. (Until you’ve completely forgotten about the awkward date or bad breakup.)

4. He’s Just Not That Into You by Greg Behrendt – Over the years since this book first came out, I’ve tried to argue with it. I’ve tried to declare it false. I’ve tried to say that relationships aren’t as black and white as Greg presents them to be in this book, but you know what? They are. The truth is, relationships ARE more black and white than they are fifty shades of gray…and that’s a good thing. Because when you change your mindset and start to look at relationships as black and white instead of every shade in between, you cut out a lot of drama and heartache and nonsense. The honest truth is, as Greg says so succinctly in this book: “A man who wants to make a relationship work will move mountains to keep the woman he loves.” It just doesn’t get any more black and white, cut and dry than that. The only compliant I have about this book is that it came out before the era of texting and Facebooking and IM’ing and DM’ing and Twitter and all the other various ways people communicate now…so I’d love to see an updated version! But even though the game of love has changed a bit since its publication, the truths in this book still hold true, and will still save you a LOT of heartache when dealing with a wishy-washy, is he or isn’t he? type of man.

3.  I’ve Never Been to Vegas but My Luggage Has: Mishaps & Miracles on the Road to Happily Ever After by Mandy Hale – My second book (and New York Times bestseller) travels deep into the journey of the single woman, covering serious and relevant topics like heartbreak, struggling with anxiety, abusive and toxic relationships, overcoming depression, rediscovering a new career path for yourself after one abruptly ends, and everything in between. And while it does break down some serious issues…there are also some SERIOUS laughs along the way! I think this book will isnpire you to let go of the idea of what “Happily Ever After” is supposed to look like, stop obsessing about the destination, and instead, rejoice in the journey. The wild, adventurous, uncertain, often crazy but always magical journey of the single woman.

2. The Single Woman: Life, Love, & a Dash of Sass by Mandy Hale –  With my first book, I wanted to talk about relationships but I didn’t want to focus on just relationships. I wanted this book to be a complete snapshot of the entire experience of the single woman, not just one aspect. I feel like so many books out there for single women only touch on one area of life, and that’s love, dating, and relationships. How can we hope to live healthy, happy, balanced lives if the only thing anyone is talking to us about is relationships? From loving yourself to letting go to following your dreams to making a difference in the world to refusing to settle in ANY area of your life, this book is a comprehensive look at living your best life as a single woman and celebrating exactly who you are in this moment. And yes, love is a chapter or two of that…but not the entire book. The busy, vibrant, confident single woman has many, many other stories to tell! As I say in the book, the REAL fairytale is designing a life that’s so amazing, you don’t want to be rescued from it.

1. Beautiful Uncertainty, by Mandy Hale – My latest book and the one I’m most proud of and most excited for you to read. With #BeautifulUnertainty, I tried to combine all the greatest elements of the storytelling from Never Been to Vegas and the quotable nuggets of truth from The Single Woman and I feel like it resulted in my best work ever. #BeautifulUncertainty was written about a very special year in my life in which I decided to stop sitting around waiting for life to begin (as many of us singles find ourselves doing) and get out there and actually LIVE. Because the truth is, most of us are waiting for SOMETHING: Love, marriage, babies, a new job, a raise, a miracle, a phone call, a cure, a diploma, an ANSWER…but I believe that we don’t just have to sit around and wait, we can wait in purpose. We can say yes to our lives. We can follow God and follow our dreams and take bold chances and surrender to our process and RISK and dare and love and embrace the Beautiful Uncertainty of every single moment.

What books have spoken to you as a single woman? Which books did I miss and need to add to a future list? Comment below with your picks!

 

112 Responses to “ The Top Ten Books All Single Women Should Read ”

  1. Laura
    September 3, 2013

    I totally recommend “It’s not him, it’s you” by Christie Hartman, totally changed the way I thought about dating.

    • Christine suttie
      September 22, 2013

      Hi i was in love with a guy 4 11 years its been about 9 years since it ended.we went thru alot of privat stuff 2geather.i thought after so many year ofter it ended (9 years) i would get my life 2 geather but i havent. It still hurts soo bad like it was yesterday we ended it.a think am given up.christine

    • Jane
      February 7, 2016

      I’d recommend the book “You are the prize to be won” by Wendy Griffith.

  2. Carmen Moreno
    September 3, 2013

    What book do you recommend to single girl who is 27 and never been asked out on a date! I’m beginning to think there is something wrong with me!

    • Mandy Hale
      September 3, 2013

      All of the above! 🙂

    • Jennifer
      September 3, 2013

      Carmen,
      I’m 30 years old, and haven’t been on a date/had a boyfriend since I was 15 years old. Your/Our time is coming. This is the way I think of the whole single thing…God is preparing my heart and my future husband’s heart for each other. –The biggest thing is I believe this with my whole heart.

      In the mist of this waiting, I’m learning so much about God and myself. God is teaching me how to be the wife my husband deserves.

    • Lisa
      September 29, 2013

      Carmen, I honestly thought I was the only one!!!!! I am the same age as you and feel exactly the same way you do!

    • Mulenga
      October 5, 2013

      Carmen, am 27 too, and I can totally relate. Am currently in my low tide, but Jennifer’s word are a good reminder of what I know but forget at times. It is not in vain. Oneday we will look and appreciate these single lonely days 🙂

    • Crystal
      January 18, 2014

      Carmen I am nearly 30 and have never been asked our on a date either by a man who would serve as a real prospect. It is definitely a struggle but I do believe that it is not too late and just focus on getting your life in order so that when your husband finds you he will recognize that he had found a rare jewel indeed.

    • MJ
      January 18, 2014

      Thé Holy Bible written over centuries ago. This Book introduces thé Savior, Jesús Christ who died on the Cross for our sins. In doing so, he showed every person he loves you. He is there for you, he wants a relationship with each of us. In fact, he wants to meet you for a date eveeyday for quality time .If you’re ever lonely, he will always hear you when you call. You can Trust him to never leave you or cheat on you! Read the Bible, your life will be folles with pesca as you wait for God to send you the mate he has for you.

    • Julie
      January 19, 2014

      Carmen

      I understand that you must be confused at where you are at in life. As you can see you are not the only one who has gone through the same thing. One thing I can point one – you need to focus on you! Don’t think about what you don’t have. Think about what you do, how awesome you are and be a confident and strong woman. Don’t be depressed or let this get you down. Point two – Take the time you have as a single girl and do something you’ve always wanted to do! Learn about who God wants you to be. Point 3 – make sure you are getting out, play a sport, go to church, volunteer at places and meet people. I promise you in no time you will be asked out because guys around you will notice who and how amazing you are.

    • July 6, 2015

      there is nothing wrong 🙂 its just God is moulding you to be a perfect wife to your husband someday. read captivating by john and stasi eldridge . god bless you

    • Amanda
      November 27, 2015

      You’re not alone. I’m 30 and still have not been on a date, nor have I had my first kiss… I’ve been thinking there’s something wrong with me as well. But I know part of the reason is that my standards are high and I just haven’t found anyone who could reach them

    • Suzanne
      May 8, 2016

      Men are from Mars Women are from Venus Dating is good.

  3. lisa
    September 3, 2013

    you missed a good one called Boundaries in Dating

    • tia
      October 17, 2013

      bout to read…

    • Kathy
      February 9, 2016

      A book called Captivating (the female version of Wild at Heart) by Staci Eldridge. Read this 9 years ago for the first time just as my 19 year marriage had ended after 6 years of desperately trying to save it, and then landing up in such a wrong relationship with a guy for a brief time. Never has a book so underscored me, and read my mail like this one, painfully but also reassuringly revealing myself to myself at (then) 49! Read and re-read it many times since. Wish I’d read this at 20. It may have saved me from a lot of pain.

  4. Jasmine
    September 3, 2013

    “Celibate Sex” by Abbie Smith is a game changer for those who are celibate or have the thought of celibacy from a Christian perspective, no matter the age. Also “Mrs. Right” by Tony A. Gaskins Jr. Look him up on YouTube as well (and Jereme L. Ford mentioned above). A sorority sister of mine has also read ‘Pink Lips and Empty Hearts” by Heather Lindsey, who also ministers (and blogs) with her husband Cornelius Lindsey. I haven’t read any of their resources yet, April Mason and Matthew Hussey (who are also on YouTube) are great as well. These books/life coaches I mentioned are all raw and real so be prepared to be challenged!

  5. Abi
    September 3, 2013

    Just curious if you have read any books by Michelle McKinney Hammond. I’m currently reading “What to Do Until Love Finds You.” She shares her own struggles as a single woman and founder of HeartWing Ministries.

    • DSMITH
      September 8, 2013

      Yes, I totally agree, a good read!

  6. jana
    September 4, 2013

    The BIBLE

    • Mulenga
      October 5, 2013

      Number one on my list.

    • Whitney
      March 10, 2014

      Yes! The Bible is the most important book to read while on this journey. I’m currently reading The Power in Waiting by Carla Cannon. The book that has really helped me is Heather Lindsey’s Pink Lips and Empty Hearts.

  7. cheryl
    September 4, 2013

    In the Meantime. Iyanla Vazant this book is what finally got me out of the bed after a deep depressive breakdown after what I thought was the love of my life dumped me. Now I know I dodged a bullet and some of the issues were self inflicted I still pull it out from time to time.

    • DSMITH
      September 8, 2013

      YES!

    • Danisa Khoza
      October 25, 2013

      I was just about to suggest the very same book! I’m reading it right now! It tackles every truth about life and all things “LOVE”

  8. Kymm Ballard
    September 4, 2013

    Amazing and many of these I will read! Thank you for sharing!

  9. elizabeth e
    September 4, 2013

    Hi Halle,

    Ÿ̲ȍυ have inspired me so much.God bless ÿ̲ȍυ and U̶̲̥̅̊я ministries !

    I recommend THE IRRESISTBLE WOMAN and THE POWER OF BEING A WOMAN by Michelle MIckinney Hammond.Her books thought me how †̥☹ embrace †ђξ truimph of †ђξ feminme spirit and †̥☹ be a woman that cannot be done without by a man.
    Thank you

    • tia
      October 17, 2013

      ty.. ordered the second one.. txs.. for sharing..

  10. Sherri
    September 4, 2013

    This looks like a great list and I will definitely be reading some of these….I would recommend “What to do until love finds you” by Michelle McKinney Hammond. It was awesome!

    • DSMITH
      September 8, 2013

      Yes!

  11. Rebecca
    September 4, 2013

    “I Kissed Dating Goodbye” soo good. Also a must read for single ladies! 🙂

    • allery
      September 8, 2013

      I kiseed dating goodbye by Joshua Harris and the power of being a Woman by Michelle Mckinney Hammond.

  12. Maryann
    September 4, 2013

    you forgot to mention act like a lady think like a man by steve harvey

  13. Vicki
    September 4, 2013

    What about I Kissed Dating Goodbye by Joshua Harris? Ha ha. I’m just kidding. I won’t kiss dating goodbye. Actually, I’ve met Josh Harris a few times, real nice guy!

  14. Melody
    September 4, 2013

    On My Own: The Art of Being a Woman Alone Paperback- Florence Falk

  15. Mercy
    September 4, 2013

    The best one I have liked was by Josh Harris : I kissed dating goodbye

    • January 22, 2014

      yeaaaa agree 🙂

  16. M
    September 4, 2013

    A woman’s Worth.
    A friend recommended it.

  17. September 4, 2013

    The Single Woman’s Guide to Retirement by Jan Cullinane

  18. Miss K
    September 5, 2013

    Eat.Pray.Love. Now this book is everything!

    • Jazmine
      March 11, 2014

      I’m actually in process of finally reading Eat, Pray, Love!! so far, so good.

  19. Tina
    September 5, 2013

    “How Did I Get Here?” by Barbara De Angelis
    Finding your way to renewed hope and happiness when life and love take unexpected turns

    Thank you for such a WONDERFUL list of books…can’t wait to get reading!

  20. Shannon
    September 5, 2013

    Love this list! Can’t wait to check some of them out!

  21. Jenay S
    September 5, 2013

    Mandy, I’ve been following you for sometime now and I LOVE your ministry. Thank you for publishing this book list. The themes of these book resonate so loudly with me. I can’t wait to buy a few and get into them. Thank you for being so transparent and positive and nonjudgmental. Your life is a beautiful testament to how God loves us! Thanks again! Jenay

  22. Krystal
    September 5, 2013

    Why does he do that? By Lundy Bancroft. An excellent book about unhealthy relationships. Given the number of people who experience intimate partner abuse I think every woman should read it to know the signs, how it can happen and that its not something that’s wrong with them

  23. September 5, 2013

    Yvette and I went through High School together. Her book is just what the Dr would have ordered had it been around in 1996. But, alas, even after finding my “Happily Ever After” Guy, her writing took me back to the ridiculous and hard times in a funny way. She is a talented writer.

  24. Bdesch
    September 5, 2013

    How to NOT marry the wrong guy.

  25. Suzanne
    September 5, 2013

    On my way to barnesandnoble.com to order all of them!! (Except yours – I have those already! Will be reading them this weekend finally!)

  26. September 5, 2013

    I would have to recommend When God Writes Your Love Story by Eric and Leslie Ludy, and by Leslie as well, AuthenticBeauty and Set Apart Femininity.

  27. Lisa
    September 7, 2013

    Great list can’t wait to go book shopping. Just want to add a few more: Michelle Mckinney Hammond Saved Single & Satisfied, Ellen Fein & Sherrie Schneider The Rules I & The Rules II, T.D. Jakes Woman Thou Art Loosed

  28. Shadia
    September 8, 2013

    I haven’t dated in 23 years! I was married when I was 17, divorced at 20…… Have not found one person I want to spend the rest of my life with.

  29. Lauren
    September 8, 2013

    I loved and still love two books by Chad Eastham: the truth about guys and guys like girls who…. They really helped me understand guys and he’s a great writer. Btw I’m 23 and never have had a bf and have been on one bad date ever this past December.

  30. tobie
    September 9, 2013

    Why men Marry Bitches and Wating and Dating 🙂 great books! I love what you are doing Mandy! I’m in Nigeria, how do I get your books?

    • Louise
      October 2, 2015

      Tobie: irony, been asking way long before titled book, why men marry bitches due to children having to endure behavior of such as in “when you and your mother can’t be friends” by Victoria Secunda, toxic parents by Susan forward, Dr. Laura, etc., Because if you are NOT healed and whole children who become grown adults then write articles like Meredith Maran and Joshua Coleman in AARP (where grown adult children cut the parents out and off and might make “matriarchal Bioche” article). Could be wrong thinking, expectation like in “Kingdom of Self/God Players by Earl Jabay”, Cindrella Complex and or is it Robin Norwood “women who Love Too Much”. Arthur Katz, Leonard Ravenhill, and Cages of Pain by Gordon Aeshliman summed it all up ( some of the best ever read). .

      For all the Women, 10 Lies The Church Tells Women by J. Lee Grady and lies Men Believe, same author, when Woman Were Priests by Karen Jo Torjeson, Pagan Christianity by Frank Viola ( Green Cover), Don’t Call Me Brother by Austin Miles, Gordon Aeshliman recommends some excellent books, freedom for women.

  31. Rosa
    September 9, 2013

    A great list (and some great suggestions from those who replied)! Lots of books to add to my reading list 🙂

  32. brenda
    September 10, 2013

    I’m in Nigeria,how do I get your book Mandy!

  33. Arianna
    September 10, 2013

    Love the list and the other suggestions! I can’t wait to get started!!

  34. Orora
    September 10, 2013

    One of my favorite books that I recommend to all my girlfriends is Girls Gone Wise in a World Gone Wild. Absolute must read!! I read this after a very bad breakup but it it literally great for any stage of life. Can’t wait to read some of these other ones although I do have a boyfriend now 🙂

  35. Ruth
    September 14, 2013

    I’m 30 soon and people around me keep on asking me why I’m still single… I’ve been following you in twitter. Such a great list of book I must get and read..

  36. September 15, 2013

    Great ten here, Mandy and encouraged to come across you. I’m biased, but I hope “Celibate Sex: Musings on Being Loved, Single, Twisted and Holy” by Abbie Smith (me:)) would be a meaningful addition to this list.

  37. September 17, 2013

    I love reading,give me a book by Kristin Hannah and I will be up most of night reading……

  38. Rosey Dee
    September 17, 2013

    Lean In and Bossypants!

  39. Marian W
    September 17, 2013

    The List: Figuring Out Prince Charming, the Corner Office, and Happily Ever After by Marian Jordan… Amazing

  40. MJ
    September 20, 2013

    The Princess Who Believed in Fairy Tales: A Story for Modern Times by Marcia Grad

  41. Laura
    September 20, 2013

    I need help!!! So few months ago my boyfriend and the father of my son said he don’t want a relationship he said it because he feels like a failure and he needs to sort his issues out. Since this I have been on a downward spiral trying to push everyone away I want to lock my son and myself away from the world but as well I want to really make something of myself. What books do you all suggest I read please for the pick up I need? Thank you Laura

  42. Kai
    September 21, 2013

    Captivating by Staci Eldridge is a must in my opinion. Of course is #2 compared to The Bible

  43. Dr Edun
    September 24, 2013

    …..What abt I call it ……the Life User’s manual……The Bible.it is a Must read.

    • Jacyntha
      January 18, 2014

      Nice comment. The books will probably be teaching biblical truths though, christain ones, I mean

  44. Trish
    October 4, 2013

    What about Eat Pray Love??? Definitely worthy. Other than that I will be checking out most of the books listed here. 🙂

  45. marcy
    October 20, 2013

    Don’t forget Quirkyalone: A Manifesto for Uncompromising Romantics by Sasha Cagen!

  46. Modupe
    November 2, 2013

    I appreciate and love this list. I am in Nigeria, how do I get ur books. My wedding comes up next year but I tink there’s a lot I need to know before I say the big word. I’ll appreciate any link 2 make order. Thank U for blessing lives.

    • Tolu.
      February 8, 2016

      You might have to just make do with the epub version of her books o…you can get them on Christianbooks.com

  47. November 8, 2013

    You know thus tremendously on the subject of this kind of subject, manufactured myself in my view accept it as true from quite a few assorted perspectives. It has the just like males and females are certainly not intrigued right until it’s something to undertake by using Gal crazy! Your own personal stuffs outstanding. Generally deal with this!

  48. ibk
    November 11, 2013

    Secrets of an Irresistible Woman By Michelle Mckinney Hammond. I am loving every single bit of #TheSingleWoman. I have been blessed. I just know God is Mindful of me…yaaay! More Grace!

  49. Claudial1983
    January 17, 2014

    The book that helped me after separating from my ex husband of 10 yes was The Confident Woman by Joyce Meyers …. Truly God sent!!

    • Mandy Hale
      January 17, 2014

      Love that one! 🙂

  50. t
    January 17, 2014

    50 and committed to myself

    • Nonti
      January 25, 2014

      That’s interesting.. 50 and committed to myslef! Well I’m in the process of walking out of a loveless 13 year long marriage that’s had all the drama’s you can think of. I’ve pulled out my big black diary and I’m writting down all these book titles coz I suspect I might be single for a while whilst I join the very long husband queue. I’ll be patient but don’t want to grow old alone..

  51. NK
    January 17, 2014

    Another great one: If the Buddha Dated

  52. Karena
    January 17, 2014

    Ugh. So many books on this list. I’m overwhelmed with decisions. So I’m 30 about to be 31 single mom of my 10 about to be 11 boy. Never really had a boyfriend, just tried to make it work with his dad who never wanted me. But anyway I’m over that now, onto dating, which is somewhat fun, but somewhat annoying. It has been a little over a year since I have had sex, as I date, I feel tempted to not exactly have sex, but play a little, then I know that’s not honoring God. ‘m kind of confused about what is best for me, having a hard time finding support groups or anybody who waits. Staying strong is rough in this case. Is there one book someone can recommend? Or you have many? Or 1 or 2. Because I love this list, but like I said it overwhelms me with decisions. My email is [email protected] thanks.

  53. Christine
    January 17, 2014

    Redeeming Love- Francine Rivers (Amazing!)
    Choosing Me before We- Christine Arylo (Empowering!)
    Straight Talk, No Chaser & Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man- Steve Harvey (Honest!)
    The Resolution for Women- Priscilla Shirer (Practical!)
    He’s Gone… You’re Back- Kerika Fields (Funny!)
    Wild At Heart-John Eldredge (Informative!)
    Captivating-Stasi Eldredge (Intriguing!)
    Love and War- John & Stasi Eldredge (Inspirational!)

    I am a book worm too and enjoy the wisdom and encouragement these books have brought to my life.

    Getting Past Your Breakup- Susan Elliott

    • Dana Mariel
      January 17, 2014

      Hi! I read that Act like a Lady, think like a Man. True, it is a book of honesty from a man’s point of view. My friend recommended me that book. The question and answer portion or the FAQs a woman always wanted an answer is really cool. 🙂

  54. Kirstyn
    January 17, 2014

    I enjoy the Nora Roberts romance novels. My feel good books when I’m down. I read a lot being physically disabled. ..hard to have a love life when your 23 and walk with a cane. It’s nice to slip into a fantasy world of romance and with relatable female characters.

    • Amanda
      February 24, 2015

      I read this and was so heart broken. I can’t see you obviously but just from the few words you wrote and a stirring in my heart I feel that you are a beautiful, gentle and fun person. Obviously I believe God had to give me this image but I can just see a young girl running throught long grass with a huge smile on her face giggling and having the time of her life. I know you wrote this comment just over a year ago but I believe that if God hasn’t already placed a man in your life that totally loves the you that you are then he isn’t far away.

  55. Daphne
    January 17, 2014

    The sweet potato queens are hilarious and have a book called wedding planner/divorce guide. The divorce guide def helped me get through my divorce!

  56. Dana Mariel
    January 17, 2014

    Hi. I am now reading “When God Writes your Love Story” by Eric and Leslie Ludy. This couple manage to share how they met when they have both struggling with their individual lives before they met. Until such time that they trust their lives to God (even their love life). I hope you will find this book interesting. 🙂 God bless.

    I already asked my friend living in Australia to buy The Single Woman because I can’t find a copy here in the Philippines. 🙂

  57. Tesa
    January 17, 2014

    My must-have, go-to breakup or single-power book is “Better Single Than Sorry: A No-Regrets Guide to Loving Yourself and Never Settling” by Jen Schefft. Just brilliant at identifying and combating the external pressures singles face to be in a relationship.

  58. Pam
    January 17, 2014

    A confident heart by Renee swope ….. a great book about the love God has for us as woman…. And how to see ourselves the way Hod sees us!….. Even in our brokenness!!

  59. Pam
    January 17, 2014

    A confident Heart by Renee Swope…… About Gods love for us and how he sees us…. And how to over come our brokenness by seeing ourselves the way God does!!!….. Awesome book! A must read for woman!

  60. Kathy
    January 18, 2014

    I recommend Furious Pursuit by Tim King. Especially the chapter on the vows….vows God made to you. I have always been there for you and I always will be. 2). I will walk with you forever, just the two of us. 3) I will always understand you. 4) I will always be kind to you. 5) you will always. Be my personal concern. 6). I love you. I always have and I always will. The eternal vows of the sacred lover.

  61. Kelly
    January 18, 2014

    I highly recommend Better Single Than Sorry!

  62. January 22, 2014

    Solo flight Book is nice too. I haven’t read it yet but it also helps single woman to enjoy singleness 🙂

  63. Karena
    January 22, 2014

    Thank you ladies.

  64. Christine
    January 24, 2014

    Act Like A Lady, Think Like A Man by Steve Harvey is an honest and sometimes humorous read! Steve is so real and gives it to you straight with no sugar coating! I have your book as well and I enjoyed reading it!

  65. Susie
    January 25, 2014

    Table for One by Camerin Courtney

  66. Hayden Loveless
    July 23, 2014

    Ok ok Ladies. I’ve about had enough of the cliche’ responses to being single. Yes God is “there” for us, but we are human and need human interaction and companionship, so all the “Christian” responses will only ride for so long. Nothing wrong with celibacy and honoring your temple and waiting for the right one, but tell that to a 50 yr old who’s never been married. Really? “Love yourself”, “focus on you”, etc, all that mind trick stuff also is typical BS. When a love life isn’t present all you can do is focus on you..no one else is around! I’m just saying….I see many younger people getting married who didn’t go through a special time of getting themselves “together” first. I just don’t think it’s required. The whole point of true love and companionship is to find someone to love right where you are, as you are. Isn’t that an expression of love from God himself through someone? His way of saying ” I love you and will care for you”. We need each other people, to get through this thing called life. Everybody needs somebody. There’s just something wrong with being a single woman, like myself, who’s never, ever been married … And I’m 42! How much longer do I wait? At this point…wait for what exactly? I just want, and expected quite honestly, a life partner, a companion to share my life with by now. I’ve prayed for God to send me the right guy for over 20 years now…ok, seriously? I just don’t believe God intended for people to be lonely. I’ve even asked God to show me what’s wrong with me, to change me to be what I need to be as a wife to my future husband. But I only get silence, more isolation, and lonliness. I feel cheated, like I was sold a dream which was all a big lie. Prince Charming isn’t coming…at least for some of us less fortunate ones. It’s a very painful experience and I just want us single “older” ladies to be real and honest about this….I guess I’m just tired of being told the same BS over and over b/c I’ve done all those “things” everyone says you need to do. And guess what? I’m still unsuccessful at finding a man. Now that leaves you feeling worthless, unwanted, and unloved. Now why would an awesome,”loving” God do that me? I’m still tring to figure it out.

    • Melissa
      April 7, 2015

      Hayden Loveless and other girls…

      Hi my name is Melissa and i’m from mexico. I just got out of my relationship that I thought “this is it” to find a “it’s getting complicated” instead… I’m 26 and was my relationship after 10 years of nothing. Well I’ve been crying my eyes out, missing him, I don’t want to dress nice anymore, not even wearing any makeup (when I used to even liked red lipstick)…. I’ve been complaining on why, why does this happen to me? why don’t I have luck on life. Why does everyone else have a boyfriend, husband.. but not me. Well I look around (when my true thinker self is put) and i see that I did had the chance SOOO many times for something else, maybe not better, but something different. But I didn’t took it because he was fat, he was to thin, he was that, etc…. We have to be true to our selves. Honestly girls are we putting ourselves out there?? are we trying our best?? are we shaving our legs, getting on a dress???
      I’m just saying, I’m sick of feeling sorry for myself, I do miss him, but why do I have to look bad when everyone looks prettier than me and they are getting all the attention and having fun???

      LETS DO THIS GIRLS!!! WE CAN DO IT!!!

    • Jikay
      February 9, 2016

      Hayden, just think about this. A lot of people are married and a lot of them wanted to get out of their marriages too because they are miserable. Our happiness should be because we strive and decide to be happy, not because of our civil status.

  67. Amanda
    August 6, 2014

    Anything BY Joshua Harris, & Eric Ludy. You should totally Read their books! Mandy you’ll love him.

  68. Jennifer Zavala
    October 24, 2014

    Hi Mandy! First time visiting your website and I am currently reading your book The Single Woman and I must say I love it. At 26yrs old I am having a hard time waiting patiently but I am trying to listen to the Lord when he tells me I’m not ready. A great book that I recently read is The Cinderella Rule by Bethany Jett. It’s an amazing book about letting your prince find you instead of you finding your prince.

    • Michael M.
      February 19, 2016

      Jennifer, I definitely DON’T long to experience the thrill of the chase ! “Hard to get” means “Not interested”, and if she doesn’t show any interest in me, she’s going out with an abusive jerk !

  69. Olivia
    February 7, 2016

    Loveology by John Mark Comer
    A really great explanation on what the different stages of a relationship should look like.
    &
    Spoken For: Embracing Who You Are and Whose You Are by Alyssa Bethke!

  70. MJ Marti
    February 8, 2016

    Not sure if anyone has recommended this book yet (too many comments to go through… Lol!) but you must read The Mastery of Love by Don Miguel Ruiz. It helped me A LOT after my divorce and I recommend to ANY single woman — no matter the age. 😉

  71. February 8, 2016

    Sacred Singleness and Authentic Beauty by Leslie Ludy have really blessed me over the last few years. I keep reading and rereading them for encouragement and clarity doing the years of my life.

  72. Sandy
    February 9, 2016

    I enjoyed reading Steve Harvey’s book “Act Like A Lady Think Like A Man” because I like getting the male perspective on relationships. I believe that as women if we would listen to men more, we could learn a lot more instead of trying to get into men’s heads and figure things out on our own or with the help of others. It really comes down to good communication which can be difficult at times. I have been a celibate single lady by choice for many years now because yes, I would like to save myself for marriage the second time around. I did it “my way” before and now I choose to honor God and do more things His way. Steve Harvey talks about the Ninety-Day Rule in his book aka waiting to have sex in a relationship for 90 days. I once dated a guy who told me that we were going to “be in love” before we made love. That simple statement still resonates with me today and we were in a beautiful relationship for a couple of years.

  73. Cheryl
    February 11, 2016

    I believe “The Single Woman” is like my bible right now. I love love LOVE this book and am so thankful I found it! I just got Beautiful Uncertainly and am so excited to start reading it! The funny thing is, I saw Brene Brown speak at a work function and was completely blown away with her words. We all received her book and it has been sitting on my shelf for the last year & half and and I’ve yet to read it. I am recently single out of a 3 1/2 year relationship with a man i thought I was going to to marry. It’s funny when how in hard times you search for encouragement to stay strong when all along this book has been sitting on my shelf. I guess it’s time for me to start reading it!

  74. Nosipho Shabalala
    February 21, 2016

    There is another one called “Dating Game”by Daniele Steel , its about a woman who had been married for 24 years & unexpectedly the husband divorces her for a younger woman & she is left devastated & not even knowing how to pick up the pieces. The book talks about this woman going through so many obstacles in the dating game at the age 46 & she ends up loosing hope. I recommend it to every single woman.

  75. February 26, 2016

    This is a great list of books. I also really enjoyed Now and Not Yet by Jennifer Marshall. I’m currently reading Single by Judy Ford which I think is great for someone who has found themselves “re-single.”

  76. 1learner
    September 2, 2016

    A
    I am new to this blog and am happy to see so many good books I can read about singleness. I was in a dating relationship with a guy who decided he could see no future in dating me because I was celibate (until marriage). I really liked him and feel rejected. He is also a Christian. Can anyone recommend a book that talks about how to handles this type of dissapointment?

  77. Okeowo Enitan
    March 31, 2017

    Helpful

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Something wonderful is on the horizon
Life doesn’t always look the way we want it to look. In Mandy’s upcoming book, Turn Toward the Sun: Releasing What If and Embracing What Is, you’ll find encouragement to live in the moment, sit with your experiences, and trust God with the unknown.
Preorder from Baker Book House for 40% off and free shipping!*
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Something wonderful is on the horizon
Turn Toward the Sun CoverLife doesn’t always look the way we want it to look. In Mandy’s upcoming book, Turn Toward the Sun: Releasing What If and Embracing What Is, you’ll find encouragement to live in the moment, sit with your experiences, and trust God with the unknown.
Preorder from Baker Book House for 40% off and free shipping!*
*US shipping only