Best Books For Women

Our Ultimate Book Guide

Welcome to our library! In honor of National Library Week, we've rounded up the best of our books coverage here on POPSUGAR Sex & Culture to give you a one-stop shop on all things reading-related. There are book recommendations for all types of readers, author interviews, and videos on our monthly must reads, to name a few. So snuggle up on a comfy couch or in a coffee shop, and flip through our ultimate book guide!

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The Best Beach Reads For a Spring Getaway

Looking for poolside page-turners you can dive into while you're away on a Spring or Summer getaway? With a mix of popular classics, romantic novels, thrillers, and modern fiction, we're highlighting a range of options you can tote along on your next vacation. Before you start packing, take a look at these must-have beach reads!

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Feminist Romance Novels to Hop in Bed With

Has the romance genre embraced feminism with strong, muscular arms? That's the question explored in a recent Atlantic article about how romance novels and feminism became unlikely bedfellows. Writer Jessica Luther explains that in the 1970s, feminists were challenging the patriarchy, while romance novels played into it. Today, however, many younger authors write while taking the gains of feminism for granted.

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9 Books to Put the Spring Back in Your Dating Step

Spring is officially here, which means it's almost time to take out your flirty sundresses and sandals for the warmer season. In case you're feeling a bit rusty in the dating department, these nine books will help you regain some confidence and perhaps figure out your dating blind spots. Whether you are single and just want to have fun or looking to have a committed relationship, see what you should pick off the bookshelves to put the spring back in your dating step.

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Books Penned in Letter Form

Without taking the time to sit down and write a letter to a distant friend or family member, our communication has become more practical, short-form, and casual. Letters, often written with more intention, can include details that reveal the everyday and sometimes intimate details of the writer's life. These qualities also appealed to authors, who have used the form to tell their stories. Novels written in letter form fall under "epistolary novels," and if you've ever read one you know they can be hard to put down. Here is a selection of books penned in letter form you might want to write home about after you finish them.

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Bookworm Bride: How to Add Literary Charm to Your Wedding

We're not ashamed to admit we have a nerdy side, and we think book- and library-inspired details would make any engagement party, bridal shower, or wedding that much more of a page-turner. So if you're a bookworm like us, dive into these ideas for adding literary charm to your big-day celebrations.

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Internet Sensations Turned Into Books

For some, it may seem pointless to pay money for a book replicating something you can enjoy for free online. But many of these coffee-table books and memoirs inspired by Internet sensations include fresh content and/or they are packaged in an artistic way. If you're looking for gift ideas for the funny ladies in your life, check out these hard-copy editions of some of our favorite female-inspired Internet hits!

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Censored: Books Banned For Sexual Content

While book banning may sound like a throwback to Victorian times, censoring books continues to flourish in 21st-century schools and libraries. What's most surprising is a book can be removed from a curriculum, reading list, or school library with the complaint of just one parent. Violence, racial themes, and the occult are commonly cited reasons, but an even more popular one is sexual content. Check out these books that have been removed from schools and libraries in the last two years, and tell us if you think there's ever a good reason to ban a book.

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Life According to Danielle Steel

As the fourth-bestselling author of all time, Danielle Steel has an impressive literary track record, and she definitely knows how to live glamorously — whether she's in France, New York, or San Francisco. The fashionable five-time divorcée is mother to socialites-slash-models Vanessa and Victoria Traina, along with seven additional children, one of whom passed away in 1997. To learn more about Danielle's views on texting, fame, youthful indiscretions, birthdays, and more, check out some of her best quotes on her life as a romance novelist.

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10 Books About Fathers and Daughters

With Father's Day approaching, we got to thinking about books with riveting father-daughter stories. To our surprise, we've read and loved quite a lot of them. Though it's easier to find great movie dads, the literary world offers some truly stunning examples, too. Here are 10 of our favorite books about fathers and daughters, and please, chime in with your own, too.

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Books by Inspiring Female Olympians on Age, Body Image, and More

We're looking at some of the reads penned by our favorite female athletes. Inside stories, inspirational tips — these books offer a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the lives of some of the most popular Olympians. Jennifer Sey writes about controversial issues in gymnastics, swimmer Dara Torres offers tips for getting ahead, and Serena Williams touches on her childhood influences. Read all that and more with these inspiring books by female Olympians.

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Fifty Shades of Grey: Hot Erotic Novels Stirring Controversy

Just how risqué is Fifty Shades of Grey and the other books in the X-rated trilogy? Click through to get an idea of what to expect with some of the most revealing (and entertaining) reviews of the books on Amazon (typos and all)!

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August 2012 Must Reads

Summer was winding down and cooling off, and as we enjoyed the final lazy days of the season we raided the digital bookshelves for page-turners to dive into. No matter what type of book you're into — be it memoir, romance, or mystery — we've rounded up the most promising reads that came out in August 2012.

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Emily Giffin on Where We Belong, Marrying Her Characters, and Bieber Fever

Emily Giffin's Where We Belong follows the story of two women — Marian Caldwell, a 36-year-old TV producer in New York, and 18-year-old Kirby, a high school senior in St. Louis — who are bound by a secret. Emily says she knew early on that the book would be about belonging. Inspired by the power of secrets — when it's justified to keep them and how they change us — she chose to explore those themes through the secretive circumstances of an adoption. I had the opportunity to interview Emily about her new release, upcoming film projects, and her celebrity girl crush.

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January 2013 Must Reads

New year, new books! It was time to restock your shelves with January's brand-new releases. The year kicked off with romantic novels, witty memoirs, and in-depth biographies. Add some poignant historical fiction and some inspiring short stories, and we were all set up with plenty of books to start 2013. Curl up in a cozy armchair and check out the incredible books that came out in January 2013!

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Spirit Junkie: 5 Romantic Reminders From Gabrielle Bernstein

If you haven't heard of the Spirit Junkie Gabrielle Bernstein yet, get used to hearing this girl's name a lot more. Dubbed the new Carrie Bradshaw for go-getting 30-somethings, Gabrielle is a bestselling author, life coach, and all-around inspirational chick. Gabrielle and I chatted about her journey, her book, and her advice for women looking for a meaningful life, full of love. Here are five tips I learned about romantic relationships from Gabrielle Bernstein, the Spirit Junkie.

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November 2012 Must Reads

Chilly temps mean more time indoors with a hot drink and a book. So for those of you who have finished off what's left on your bookshelves, we've got the most promising page-turners out in November 2012 to dig into next. Check out the parodies, novels, memoirs, and more in our November must reads now!

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New Bridget Jones Novel Announced

Classic chick-lit fans mark your diaries for November — that's when the now-official third installment of the Bridget Jones novels will be released. Author Helen Fielding introduced the world to the single 30-something back in 1996 with Bridget Jones's Diary and followed up the hit book loosely based on Pride and Prejudice with a 1999 sequel, Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason, both of which were turned into hit films staring Renée Zellweger, Hugh Grant, and Colin Firth. Now almost 15 years later, fans can catch up with Bridget. She is apparently up to new things, according to the author, who says, "My life has moved on and Bridget's will move on, too."

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Author Laura Dave on The First Husband, Learning to Love, and Books-Turned-Rom-Coms

The First Husband starts on the eve of Annie Adam's 32nd birthday. The LA-based travel writer loves her career and living with her boyfriend of five years, Nick, the man she thinks she's going to marry. Nick shatters that plan by initiating a break and moving out, and a lovesick Annie ends up meeting Griffin, a lighthearted and loving chef who soon knows Annie's the one he wants to marry. Annie says yes, and finds herself living in a small town in Massachusetts unsure if this married life, or her husband, is right for her. I spoke with the author Laura Dave — whose first two novels have been optioned by Reese Witherspoon and Jennifer Aniston respectively — about how she hopes readers will relate to her message, and got her thoughts on another book-to-rom-com, Something Borrowed.

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Erotica Titles For Hot Vacation Reading

Sex-fueled title Beautiful Bastard is heating up the New York Times bestseller list, practically making Twilight-inspired erotica its own genre. Just like E.L. James's Fifty Shades of Grey, the book follows two Edward and Bella inspired characters who just can't keep their hands off each other. Racy novels, now often dubbed "mommy porn," might seem like a recent trend, but in fact, erotic writing dates back at least two millennia to the Greek poet Sappho. If you want to give steamy reading a chance, here are seven titles to try besides the fan-fiction incarnations.

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Catch Up on Your Reading With the Most-Talked-About Books of the Summer

The sunny season of poolside lounging and airport delays is perfect for diving into the hottest books of the year, and here in POPSUGAR we've been passing around page-turners like Where We Belong, Fifty Shades of Grey, and Gone Girl for fellow editors' beach totes and carry-ons. Before the sun sets on the season, let's look back at the books that got everyone talking — and reading — this Summer!

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A Book For Every Person on Your Holiday List

No need to stress over holiday shopping — we've curated a collection of the best 2012 reads to cover everyone on your list. Hoping to find the perfect present for your foodie relative, your engaged pal, or your co-worker who's obsessed with all things pop culture? You'll find all that and more in this comprehensive gift guide. The best part: books couldn't be easier to wrap. Click through to complete your holiday shopping in a snap!

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February 2013 Must Reads

A memoir about friendships with John Lennon and Yoko Ono, a story of murder and red velvet cupcakes, and a tale of vampires in a lemon grove are all among new books that were out in February 2013. Challenge yourself to see how many titles you can cram in after you take a look at our February must reads.

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A History of LGBT Characters and Themes in Comics

We've been seeing comic strips and comic books in the news lately thanks to a recent push to make comics more open to LGBT themes after being heavily censored by the Comics Code Authority up until 1989 (not that the restrictions prevented everyone from writing about gay characters). The road to a lesbian Batwoman and a gay Green Lantern has been rocky, but let's see how homosexuality has been portrayed both positively and negatively in comics over the years.

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Gifts For Wordsmiths and Aspiring Novelists

If you know any aspiring novelists who need a little nudge to get pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard), these gifts could inspire a future Jane Austen. No matter what kind of writer they are, these novel gift ideas are sure to cure a case of writer's block — check them out now!

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May 2012 Must Reads

Along with May flowers, Mother's Day, and graduation season came a brand-new batch of must-read books in May 2012. From laugh-out-loud memoirs to poignant, suspenseful novels, we've picked out some of the most promising reads to get you through the rest of the Spring season. Whether you're sitting on the bus or lying on the beach, these stories are sure to inspire and entertain.

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7 Weird and Wonderful Facts About the Wizard of Oz Books

This year, a prequel to the Wizard of Oz story, Oz the Great and Powerful, hit theaters, starring James Franco as the wizard. The Disney movie loosely references the film many of us are most familiar with, the 1939 adaptation The Wizard of Oz that stars Judy Garland as Dorothy. Another modern reinterpretation of the tale is the immensely popular Broadway musical Wicked, a prequel about Elphaba (the Wicked Witch of the West) and Glinda (the Good Witch of the North). But the source material for all these dates back to 1900, when L. Frank Baum wrote the children's novel that introduced us to Dorothy and the rest of the yellow brick road gang: The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. I was surprised by some of the facts about this fantastical story and its history, so if you're intrigued about the book that began it all, check out these interesting tidbits, and click through for a look back at the vintage book covers and illustrations.

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Love Dramatized in Vintage Romance Comics

Romance comics had their glory days during the Cold War in the US, from 1947 to 1977, and they tackled everything from marriage, jealousy, betrayal, and heartache. See some of your own love dilemmas — and some thankfully out-of-date ones! — sensationally illustrated on the covers of Sweethearts, My Story, Young Romantics, True Life Romance, My Secret Life, and more. Check out these vintage romance comics!

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Books to Give Your Friends or Lovers This Valentine's Day

When trying to find a Valentine's Day gift for your single partner in crime or current lover, there's a lot to love about books. They are sweetly simple, making them acceptable for a new man in your life. But books also can convey that you put a lot of thought into the present, since you can draw on how well you know your best friend or longtime love to find the perfect title to add to her bookshelf. We've rounded up some books on love, sex, marriage, and the single life that range from humorous to earnest. We hope they help you spread some love come Feb. 14.

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Would You Read Monica Lewinsky's Tell-All Book?

Monica Lewinsky has reportedly signed a $12 million contract for an upcoming book. She was only 22 when she began her affair with President Bill Clinton, but now the infamous White House intern, who turns 40 this year, is apparently ready to tell all.

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Your Next Book Recommendation Is a Click Away

Amazon announced it was acquiring Goodreads — a social network for bookworms — with the company's top priority being integrating it with the Kindle. I'm one of the 16 million users on the site, and I love using it for keeping track of the books I've read and want to read. It's also extremely helpful for figuring out what to read next, as it uses your reading lists to recommend books you might like. But Goodreads isn't the only way to find your next favorite page-turner. There are a plethora of websites that offer recs; check out a few of our favorites now!

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Author Allison Winn Scotch on The One That I Want, First Love and What-Ifs

In The One That I Want, 32-year-old Tilly Farmer is an optimistic school guidance counselor convinced all she needs to be happy is her perfect high-school-sweetheart-turned-husband and the future baby she's trying to have with him. But after a childhood friend cryptically gives her "the gift of clarity," she begins to see visions from her future, and they aren't according to the plan she's mapped out for herself. In this story about family struggles, being stuck in the past, and second chances, Tilly must decide if the life she so carefully put together is really the one that she wants. I spoke with the novel's author, Allison Winn Scotch, about first loves, what-ifs, and what she would tell her 17-year-old self.

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The Politics of the Spoken Word Grammy

Since 1959, when the spoken word album Grammy was created, it's had presidents, first wives, senators, and civil rights leaders in its nominee and winner pools. You may be surprised at the political figures — including three US presidents — who can call themselves Grammy winners. Find out more about this category's history now!

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10 Scary Books to Read For Halloween

I am a sucker for scary stories. Whether it's about a ghost, a witch, or a madman, there's nothing like getting a fright as you turn the pages. Check out these 10 scary books to read as you cuddle up next to someone you can grab onto. You may get scared just from the descriptions.

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21 Books Your Mom Will Love This Mother's Day

Mother's Day is next Sunday, and if you're looking for the perfect gift for Mom, then we've got some books she's sure to love. Whether she's looking for something lighthearted and funny or an emotional memoir, these page-turners take on the issues mothers and mothers-to-be can relate to. And many of these are great for daughters, too, so you can borrow it when Mom's done! Check out 21 books that will make great Mother's Day gifts now.

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New Books to Check Out in March 2013!

The new books out in March included inspirational, spooky, and just-plain-fun titles — like A Little Book of Sloth. If you're looking for something to read on a Spring getaway or while you're stuck inside during an April shower, then watch as we break down our top picks of the month. Happy reading!

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Meghan McCain Says She's a Big Fan of Hillary Clinton in New Book

No matter where you stand on the political spectrum, as a woman you gotta hand it to Meghan McCain for speaking her mind. She's not afraid to get real about her sexuality and fight back against criticisms regarding her body, and now in her book, America, You Sexy Bitch: A Love Letter to Freedom the former presidential nominee's daughter isn't holding back on her hatred and love for certain political figures. She attacks former US president Bill Clinton for having "cheated and lied," saying that her parents taught her not to lie, cheat, or steal. However, the irony is that her dad, John McCain, began dating her mom while he was still married to his previous wife, Carol Shepp. Even if she dislikes Bill, she writes that she's a big fan of his wife, Hillary. See some of her quotes from the book now.

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October 2012 Must Reads

October's most promising reads included the latest Danielle Steel novel, Jenny McCarthy's memoir on growing up Catholic, and the biography of '80s boy band New Kids on the Block! Throw in some intriguing novels about mystery, murder, and long-lost love — plus personal page-turners by Stacy London and Arnold Schwarzenegger — and it was a good month for snuggling up with a book by the fire. Check out our October 2012 must reads now!

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What We Know About Fifty Shades Author E.L. James

E.L. James, author of the erotic Fifty Shades of Grey series, isn't embarrassed about her material. If you're deep into the S&M fiction, or just curious about the pop culture phenomenon, here are a few things to know about the woman who started it all.

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Books That Terrified Us as Kids (but We Read Anyway)

Remember the phases you went through as a kid? The phase where you decided oversize t-shirts with puff-paint designs were super flattering; the Wilson-Phillips-on-continuous-repeat phase; and, if you're anything like us, the super-scary book phase. Sure, some of them may have given us nightmares, but the thrill of a good scary book — and how grown-up and daring some of them made us feel — was irresistible. Here are 10 that kept us up at night, and we love them for it.

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3 Books to Give For the Holidays — or Keep For Yourself!

With all the iPads and Kindles out there, a traditional book still makes for a thoughtful gift. We have titles the foodie, fashion, or royal fans on your holiday list will enjoy diving into. Watch our video gift guide now for three hot books you should put under the tree. You might just want to buy an extra copy for yourself, too!

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March 2012 Must Reads

March madness brought Spring weather, St. Patrick's Day, and Women's History Month. We were excited for the new season, as well as the new crop of books it brought From thrilling novels to hilarious memoirs to fresh looks at historical mysteries, we've rounded up the most promising picks of March 2012. Check them out now!

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See Magical Harry Potter Book Covers From Around the World

There are hundreds of Harry Potter books circulating around the globe — each of which is uniquely beautiful thanks to cover art by talented international artists. We've collected some examples of this cover art and organized it by books in the series, starting with Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone and finishing with Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Check them all out now!

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Quick Reads: Books You Can Start and Finish This Weekend

Sometimes when you're looking for a good book to read, it's all about a quick fix. Maybe you're in a book club and you need something that everyone will be able to finish by next meeting. Or maybe you're going away for the weekend and you want a novel you can have read by Monday. We're here to help! These classic, quality pieces of literature — with some fun books thrown in the mix — are quick enough to start and finish in two days, with most being around 300 pages or less. And many of the classics you can actually check out on your Kindle for free! Either that or you can pick up a copy at your local library. Click through these book recommendations now to find your next weekend read.

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Inspiring Passages From Famous Female Poets

In honor of National Poetry Month, we're taking a look at some of our favorite lines from prominent female poets. Adrienne Rich, who passed away last year, left a strong literary legacy filled with poignant, inspiring verse. From her bold and powerful poetry to the celebrated words of Maya Angelou, here are eight acclaimed passages from the finest female poets.

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Gifts Inspired by 2012's Must Reads

In 2012 we dove into a diverse group of page-turners. We got hot and bothered over Christian Grey in Fifty Shades of Grey, we held our breath while immersed in the mysterious Gone Girl, and we had a tissue box on hand while reading Emily Giffin's heartfelt Where We Belong. Then, thanks to Mindy Kaling's new show The Mindy Project and the first Hunger Games film, both Mindy's memoir and the Suzanne Collins-penned trilogy were also popular reads in 2012 (even if they didn't come out that year). If you're looking for inspiration for the hard-to-shop-for women in your life, look no further than their favorite book! Here are five gift guides based on some of the hottest books of the year — flip through now!

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Is Beautiful Bastard the New Fifty Shades of Grey?

Beautiful Bastard is the latest erotic Twilight fan-fiction to make the bestseller list. But is it worth reading? Watch our video review to find out, as we look into how the writing and sex-factor compare to Fifty Shades of Grey.

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Sleeping Beauty: The Original Fifty Shades Erotic Trilogy

Before E.L. James and her Fifty Shades of Grey made erotica for women so commonplace that soccer moms are reading about BDSM at the playground, there was another blush-worthy book trilogy — Anne Rice's Sleeping Beauty series — and it's having a comeback. Originally published in the '80s under the pen name A. N. Roquelaure, the trilogy includes The Claiming of Sleeping Beauty, Beauty's Punishment, and Beauty's Release, and it was rereleased last year with newly designed covers and a new preface from the author.

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Surprising Confessions From Rielle Hunter's Memoir About Her Edwards Affair

After John Edwards was acquitted on violating campaign finance rules and having five more criminal counts dropped, his mistress and baby mama, Rielle Hunter, shares her side of the story about her infamous affair with the former presidential candidate in her memoir. In the book, titled What Really Happened: John Edwards, Our Daughter, and Me, Rielle makes some surprising confessions about her relationship with "Johnny" and her feelings toward his late wife, Elizabeth, who was dying of cancer at the time of the affair. If you're intrigued by the tell-all but aren't sure you'll actually read it, here are some of the juicy tidbits from Rielle Hunter's memoir.

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Jennifer Weiner on Chick Lit and The Next Best Thing

Jennifer Weiner has had multiple dream jobs, and there's no sign she's waking up anytime soon. She's an author with multiple best sellers, had her book In Her Shoes turned into a movie starring Cameron Diaz and Shirley MacLaine, and created and ran a TV series, State of Georgia, on ABC Family. And in her free time, she shares her thoughts on women and publishing and live tweets The Bachelorette. For her latest novel, The Next Best Thing, about a twentysomething woman who moves to LA to try to make it in TV writing, Jennifer draws on her experience as a television showrunner.

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#POPBOOKS: Share What You're Reading on Instagram

We love using Instagram to share what books we've been reading in our downtime, and we want you to share the titles you can't get enough of as well! We've rounded up all the page-turners you shared with us on Instagram — and if you'd like to get in on the book-club fun, then caption your pictures with the hashtag #POPBOOKS. From poolside mags to Kindle books in the airport to novels at the park, we love seeing not only what you're reading, but also how you're reading it. Check out what our readers have been flipping through now, and be sure to share your own #POPBOOKS with POPSUGAR Sex & Culture on Instagram!

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Our Favorite Katniss and Peeta Love Quotes From the Hunger Games Book: What Are Yours?

While the love triangle between Katniss, Gale, and Peeta is a theme throughout the three books in Suzanne Collins's The Hunger Games series, the first book primarily focuses on the relationship between fellow games competitors Peeta and Katniss. Without giving too much away, readers (and even the characters) aren't always sure if the romantic moments between Peeta and Katniss are "real or not real," but we can't help but fall for the pair of star-crossed lovers. Check out some of our favorite love quotes between Peeta and Katniss from the first Hunger Games book, and share your favorites!

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Dive Into the Written Works Behind This Year's Best Picture Nominees

Did you know that six of this year's best picture Oscar nominees were inspired by written works? Life of Pi and Les Misérables are well-known novels, but Silver Linings Playbook is also based on a book and three of the other nominees stem from a biography, a one-act play, and a magazine article. Take a look at the original words behind this year's most critically acclaimed films!

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7 Ways to Get Your Reading on in 2013

If you're hoping to expand your reading in the New Year, look no further than these book-related resolution ideas! Going beyond the standard "read more" goal, we're diving into some fresh, creative ways to make this your most bookish year yet. Can't seem to think of a meaningful resolution? Check out these seven fun ideas for inspiration to get your reading on in 2013!

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12 Books to Read in Honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Sadly, one in eight women will be affected by breast cancer during their lives. While you can show your support by buying certain (pink) products or doing a 5K run, one of the easiest things you can do is get informed. Whether you know someone who has breast cancer, you're going through it yourself, or you'd simply like to learn more, we've gathered 12 of the best books on the topic. Like the experience itself, some are heavy, some uplifting, some funny, but each offer insight into courageous women battling cancer.

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Which Couple From Emily Giffin's Novels Do You Like Best?

From the complicated love triangle in the book-turned-film Something Borrowed to the first-love nostalgia in Love the One You're With, the relationships in Emily Giffin's novels are anything but boring. When we chatted with her last year, Emily ranked her male characters based on who she'd most like to marry. At the top of her list? Conrad, her latest leading man, with Ethan at a close second. For fans who have read all her books, we're curious: do you have a favorite couple?

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From Fashion to Fiction: The Best Books For Francophiles

If Paris Fashion Week left you dreaming of a French adventure, then these reads are sure to satisfy that feeling of wanderlust — at least while you're reading. Classic novels, travel memoirs, beach reads, fashion biographies, and more create a fun reading list for every kind of Francophile. Before you stock up on beach reads for Spring break, take a look at our favorite must reads for people who love all things French!

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10 Books to Get You in the Holiday Spirit

Nostalgic for the holiday season? Then curl up with one of these holiday-spirited books that all go great with a gingerbread cookie and a glass of eggnog — and don't forget the brandy! From the disturbingly humorous to the classically sentimental, check out 10 holiday books that will have you singing carols in no time!

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September 2012 Must Reads

As you wrapped up your Summer reading list, it was time to dive into Fall's new releases. Historical fiction, heart-wrenching memoirs, and highly anticipated books by well-known authors hit the shelves in September 2012. One of these is J.K. Rowling's first post-Harry Potter adult novel, The Casual Vacancy. We've rounded up September's most promising reads, so take a look now.

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Successful First Novels by Female Writers

First time's a charm! Or at least it was for these women, who hit a home run with their first attempts at writing a novel. November is National Novel Writing Month, which motivates many would-be writers to get crackin' on their maiden masterpiece. But many aspiring novelists are stuck in a rut — worried about their first work being a dud. So if you're in need of some inspiration, check out successful tales by novel-writing newbies. They may give you that kick in the pants you needed to put pen to paper!

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Roman Polanski's Victim Writing Tell-All Memoir

After 35 years, the girl who director Roman Polanski was charged with drugging and raping is breaking her silence with a tell-all memoir. Samantha Geimer, now in her 40s, has signed a book deal for The Girl: Emerging From the Shadow of Roman Polanski, due to hit bookshelves this Fall.

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8 Books to Help You Start an International Girls' Empowerment Book Club

Women now outnumber men in American universities, but in the developing world, many girls don't even make it through primary school. As many as 66 million girls aren't in school today, according to the makers of the new film Girl Rising, thanks to barriers like sex trafficking, child slavery, and early marriage. With its power of increasing our capacity for empathy, literature is one of the only ways many of us can relate to girls who have been sold into sex slavery, forced into early marriage, or overcome other astonishing circumstances. Here are some books that will help bring their stories to life, often with a message of hope and perseverance. Check them out, and then start a book club with your friends that will get the conversation going.

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Books by First Ladies

Our current first lady, Michelle Obama, can add author to her résumé. Her book, American Grown: The Story of the White House Kitchen Garden and Gardens Across America, came out last year, and while it doesn't cover hard-hitting policy or politics in the White House, it does serve up a healthy portion of photos, details about the White House garden, and feel-good American values. As we know, Michelle isn't the first first lady to byline a book. But often the diaries and autobiographies come after the husband leaves office, like with Hillary Clinton. Eleanor Roosevelt, Nancy Reagan, and many more first ladies have also published books. Take a look at some of them now.

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Peek Inside the Book That Sparked a Second Wave of Feminism

This year marks the 50th anniversary of Betty Friedan's The Feminine Mystique, the controversial 1963 book that made waves among women and reignited the feminist conversation in America. Although Friedan passed away in 2006, her work is still widely read and debated, and she did seem to succeed in giving "the problem that has no name" a name. In honor of the book's anniversary, we're highlighting some of the key quotes from her work, so keep reading for a glimpse of Friedan's controversial message.

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Backstage Book Club: What Models Read Off the Runways

We hate demeaning stereotypes against women, especially that certain groups — i.e. blondes and models — have a lower IQ than the rest of the population. In fact, as we've been checking out the backstage pics from fashion week, we couldn't help but notice a trend of bookish models. While they're getting primped and styled for the runways or killing time ahead of their shows, models around the world have been spending those hours diving into a good book, from War and Peace to Catching Fire. See some of our favorite photos of models reading backstage at fashion shows over the years, and you may even find some new book recs!

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50 Books Inspired by 50 Shades of Grey

There are countless parodies, how-to companion books, critical reading guides, and even cookbooks the E.L. James's bestselling erotica series has spawned. There's Fifty Shames of Earl Grey, Fifty Shades of Gay, Fifty Shades of Chicken, and the bizarrely titled Fifty Shades of Bacon Flavored Vagina Spray. With a range from ridiculous self-published Kindle short stories to hardcover erotica, we aren't vouching for the quality of some of these — but if you need your Fifty fix, here are 50 books inspired by Fifty Shades of Grey!

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Moms Who Want to Tell All About Their Famous Daughters

Lindsay Lohan's personal troubles are always making headlines. There are rumors that her mother, Dina Lohan, plans to pen a book all about what brought Lindsay to this place. She wouldn't be the first mother of a famous daughter with the idea to write a book. Here are five mothers who want to tell all about their daughters.

Source: Getty
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Book Characters Could Harm Body Image More Than Superskinny Celebs

If you want to have a positive impact on your body image, you might have a better luck trading chick lit in for high-fashion magazines. A study released recently found that book characters can negatively influence body image, while another found that Hollywood's standards aren't as powerful as you would think.

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Love Lessons Inspired by Nicholas Sparks Stories

Nicholas Sparks novels-turned-movies are known for steamy kisses in the rain, romantic boat rides, and fated relationships. Still, even in the midst of all the classic clichés, the stories offer plenty of thoughtful, important messages about love. From Message in a Bottle to Safe Haven, here are eight valuable love lessons to be learned from the works of Nicholas Sparks.

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6 Ways to Enjoy Bookstores Before They Go Extinct

With the way we read and buy books evolving thanks to ereaders and online shopping, now's the time to enjoy the perks of our favorite bookstores before they go the way of the cassette tape. Here are six ways to enjoy bookstores while they're still around.

Source: Warner Bros.
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Amanda Knox Sells Her Memoir For a Reported $4 Million

Amanda Knox has sold her memoir to HarperCollins for a reported $4 million. Amanda Knox's life has already been heavily reported and even made into a Lifetime movie, but now the American college student, who spent four years locked up in Italy on charges she killed her roommate, will tell her side of the story. Her story is filled with confusing and intriguing details, and I personally would love to read Amanda's side. What does she make of accusations by the Italian prosecution that she was a she-devil who killed Meredith Kercher as part of a satanic sex game, the alleged sexual harassment she faced at the hands of the Italian prison officials, or her ex and fellow-accused Raffaele Sollecito? What went through her mind when she was initially convicted, and does she really intend to go back to Italy? Those are some of the questions I hope she answers. What about you? Will you add the book to your reading list?

Source: Getty
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Girlhood Books We Grew Up Reading

If you're anything like me, reading has always been an escape from the every day. And although my tastes have somewhat evolved, I can still grab my old copy of Peter Pan and devour it in just a few sittings. Each of these classic children's books were read aloud in many a classroom, graced the shelves of elementary school libraries all over, and featured a slew of strong female characters. How much do you remember about these old friends we knew and loved? Can you match the quote to the girlhood classic?

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18 Memoirs by Funny Women

Amy Poehler has signed a book deal — huzzah! Along with Amy's diary, we can't wait to dive into the upcoming book by one of our other favorite funny ladies, Girls creator Lena Dunham, who signed a deal last year for a collection of essays. Both women join the ranks of talented female comedians who've penned popular reads about their lives, including Tina, Chelsea Handler, Mindy Kaling, and Sarah Silverman. While we wait for Amy's tome to hit bookshelves, check out some of our other favorite memoirs by famous funny ladies!

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Books by Former Bachelors and Bachelorettes

When we looked into where The Bachelor couples are now, we were surprised to see so many authors from the bunch. And while some of the past contestants from the Bachelor franchise have gone the expected route — writing about their personal experiences on the show — others penned books from surprising genres. There's something for everyone here, from a historical novel to children's fiction to a date-night cookbook. Check out some of the other books by former bachelors and bachelorettes now!

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Would Reading This in Public Embarrass You?

If it surprised you that S&M romance novel Fifty Shades of Grey reached number one on the New York Times bestseller list, it shouldn't. The romance category is the most profitable in publishing. Even so, we judge books by covers and people by what they read. At best, they impress; at worst, they repel. Thank goodness for Kindles! Previously, we asked which reads you didn't want to be seen in public with. We rounded up the books, series, and genres that embarrass you on the train, in the air, and at the park. Now you can be the judge!

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Books on a Scandal: Would You Dig Into These Juicy Reads?

It's one thing to read news reports about the shocking scandals that rock the political or celebrity worlds, but it's even more enticing to dive into a firsthand account from someone who was there when it happened. These tell-all books include behind-the-scenes looks at some of the biggest sex-related scandals to grab headlines in recent years. Check out these juicy reads now and tell us if you'd read them.

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February 2012 Must Reads

February 2012 brought the holiday for lovers along with a diverse selection of book releases — from heartbreaking memoirs to fictional love stories to beautiful odes to cities and icons. So set the mood with some of the sexiest and romantic books out February 2012, or simply take advantage of the chilly weather by cozying up to one of our riveting recommendations. Dive into the most promising books of the month now!

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Must-Have Wedding Books For Every Bride-to-Be

Nowadays there are a lot of resources out there for planning brides-to-be, so we're taking out some of the guesswork by narrowing it down to the best, most creative books available. Sites like Style Me Pretty and Green Wedding Shoes offer all kinds of fresh, original inspiration, but it's nice for brides to have a material reference on hand, too. From traditional etiquette guides to unorthodox planning manuals, here are seven books for those preparing to say "I do."

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Grade These Back-to-School Books

We may no longer have the pressure of a required reading list to motivate us to dive into the classics, but without the stress of potential pop quizzes or book reports hanging over us, there's all the more reason to leisurely revisit the books of our elementary and high school days. Whether it's been years since you read it or you finished it yesterday, channel your inner teacher by grading each of these required reading books. And if you've yet to cross these classics off your to-read list, then this season of sharpened pencils and chalkboards is the time to do it! Now get that red pen out and dive into back-to-school books, from Shakespeare to Steinbeck.

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Comedienne and Author Heather McDonald Gives Valentine's Day Advice

From blue balls to babies, Chelsea Lately writer and comedienne Heather McDonald followed up her book You'll Never Blue Ball in This Town Again — about losing her virginity at 27 — with My Inappropriate Life. Her latest memoir is a hilarious look at her "grown-up" life with a husband and three kids, which includes a lot of Real Housewives references, Chardonnay, and stories about balancing family life with her career. We chatted with Heather about Valentine's Day, and she gave some helpful advice on the holiday along with sharing a V-Day horror story. She also answered some burning reader questions from our Group Therapy community group. Get her dating words of wisdom now!

Source: Getty
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Sheryl Sandberg's Best Advice For Modern Women

Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg's new book, Lean In, is a No. 1 bestseller. And the debate over her views on women in the workplace and society's gender bias has taken over magazines, TV shows, and the Internet. But is the book all hype, or actually helpful? We read it and found that it's filled with practical advice for women trying to get ahead at work and at home. Watch now for the four best pieces of advice from the much-talked-about book.

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Band Books: Autobiographies From Rock 'n' Roll Groupies

In the Mad Men episode "Tea Leaves," Don Draper does his best to get backstage at the Rolling Stones concert. Dressed like "the man" in his suit and tie, a look his much younger wife describes as "square," Don and fellow ad man Harry Crane set out to try to get the Stones to sign on for a Heinz campaign. Instead of meeting the band, the pair hangs backstage with some teenage girls smoking joints — groupies! As we've come to expect from Mad Men, the show gave us a glimpse into the 1960s and its defining pop cultural characteristics. But if you want to know more about the real-life ladies who inspired the reference, here are eight groupie autobiographies to get in bed with.

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December 2012 Must Reads

As we bundled up and spent our evenings and weekends holed up at home with a fire (or candles) and a good book, it was the best time to explore the hottest reads of December 2012. A diverse bunch of books hit bookshelves, from a memoir by Olympic gold medalist Gabby Douglas to a wedding book by the founder of Style Me Pretty. Throw in some mysteries, a suspenseful romance, and a memoir on growing up as an American girl in Paris, and we had enough books to tide us over till the New Year. Check out the most promising page-turners that came out in December now!

Source: Shutterstock
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January 2012 Must Reads

New year, new books! Authors kicked off 2012 with an exciting batch of books to add to our reading lists. A biography on Queen Elizabeth II, which includes interviews with some of her closest friends, family, and aides, hit the shelves that month, while a book exploring the feminist implications of Elizabeth Taylor's life was also released. As for fiction offerings, you could find a story about artists in 1920s Paris, as well as a relatable tale about a college grad who has to move back in with her parents after graduation. So cuddle up with our 10 picks for the most promising new titles of January 2012.

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The Year in Books: Our 2011 Must Reads

Every month we share with you our picks for what to read in our Must Reads feature. And in 2011 there were some great page-turners! From juicy celebrity memoirs to magical fiction novels to nonfiction explorations of love and relationships, there have been some smart and sexy books to dig into. So we want to make sure you didn't miss any of the great reads of 2011! Here are all the books released in 2011 that made our Must Reads roundups. Dive into the books of the year now!

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Book-Inspired Posters: What a Novel Idea!

Chances are, your most bookish best friends and loved ones already have at least one, maybe several, copies of their favorite book. So while you're not likely to give them another edition this holiday season (unless they collect them), you could give them the second-best thing: a poster inspired by their most beloved book. From adult novels to children's classics, these artsy prints are either a copy of the book covers we remember or a fresh take on the book cover art. Here are 24 book-inspired posters for the people on your gift-giving list!

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The Best Self-Help Books of the '60s

The first self-help book, succinctly titled Self-Help and serendipitously written by a man named Samuel Smiles, was published in 1859, but the genre didn't really take off until 100 years later. The sexual revolution may have made a swinging, anything-goes time, but it left people confused about how the world works. And, maybe most importantly, people stopped trying to appear perfect. So when Mad Men's Betty Draper put down her polite book about Italy, what did she pick up? Probably one of these self-help hits from the '60s.

Source: AMC
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Authors of The Nanny Diaries Answer Our Readers' Breakup Questions

The Nanny Diaries authors Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Kraus have a new book out, Over You, about a young woman named Max living in NYC who decides to open a business called Ex Inc. The company's goal? To mend the hearts of dumped girls in New York City with the help of tough love and strategic self-esteem boosts. Bestselling authors Emma and Nicola stopped by our Manhattan office to talk about their new book and answer some of our readers' questions on the topic of breakups. Watch now!

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Confessions of a Romance Novel Cover Girl

You've seen the steamy scenes in the supermarket checkout aisle, while perusing Barnes & Noble, or perhaps on your own bookshelf, but did you ever stop to think about the real people who pose for romance novels? Actress and model Serene Aandahl always loved playing dress-up as a little girl, and as an adult she has a job that lets her do that for a living: romance novel cover girl. We caught up with Serene to get an insider look into a typical photo shoot, her bare-chested better halves, and the potentially awkward moments. Here's what we learned.

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Jane Austen: Are the Books Better Than the Movies?

The books vs. movies debate is always a popular one, but it's especially relevant to the works of Jane Austen since all six of her novels have made it to the big screen. With news that the zombie twist Pride, Prejudice, and Zombies movie is officially on, we're highlighting the original Pride and Prejudice plus the rest of Austen's works to see how the books and their film counterparts compare. Consider yourself a Jane Austen fan? Weigh in to let us know what you think: are the books better than the movies?

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10 Books to Help Us Understand Domestic Violence

For people fortunate enough not to have experienced relationship abuse, it's sometimes difficult to understand the threat. But any of us living in a community surely knows a woman, either at work, in our classes, or in our neighborhood, who has suffered abuse. I've gathered a collection of books that will help us understand domestic violence. Reading can help increase our level of empathy and social understanding. And for survivors or victims of abuse, these books can provide some affirmation or hope.

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Would You Read These '90s TV Shows-Turned-Books?

We've all heard of books made into movies and TV shows, but not as much about the reverse scenario of a TV show inspiring a novel or book series. Turns out there are a handful of shows that began in the '90s that were then adapted into page-turners. There's often controversy on whether an adaptation is better or worse than its origin material, so I'm wondering: would you read it? And if you have, how did the book version stack up to the TV series?

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The Year in Books: Our 2012 Must Reads

In 2012, our monthly Must Reads featured fascinating books in a variety of genres. There were page-turning fictional novels, in-depth biographies, juicy celebrity memoirs, and everything in between. So if you'll be traveling this season or just enjoying a long, leisurely vacation, now's the perfect time to catch up on the year's best books. Browse through these great picks from 2012 to find your match or perfect presents for the women in your life!

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Get to Know Our Favorite Female Authors

We asked who your favorite women writers are, and you delivered with both well-known and off-the-beaten-path authors. If you're looking for some lady-penned Summer reading recs or just want to learn more about the writers behind some well-loved classics, get to know our readers' favorite female authors now!

Source: Getty
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The Hunger Games and Twilight Among Top Banned Books

Sex isn't the only thing that will get you banned. Violence, racism, sexism, drugs, and offensive language will also make a book unwelcome at some schools, bookstores, or libraries. The people behind Banned Books Week put together a list of the most challenged books of 2010, along with the reasons they were challenged. Let's take a look at them now.

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Shocking Revelations From Celebrity Tell-Alls: Who Wrote It?

Martha Stewart's daughter Alexis Stewart dished on her famous mom in Whateverland: Learning to Live Here. But hers is just one of many tell-all books that give the dirty details on celebrities' sordid history of sex, drugs, and rock 'n' roll. We've compiled some of the most shocking stories from these celebrity tell-alls — see if you can match up the author to the scandalous revelation!

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7 Books For Planning a Gay Wedding

With two major Supreme Court rulings on gay marriage in the works, there is the possibility that America will finally start seeing a lot more same-sex weddings. With gay marriage legal in several states already, we've seen the "I do" industry become more welcoming for gay and lesbian couples. A part of this inclusion includes wedding-planning books, which historically have catered to hetero couples but are now tackling the common questions and hurdles gay partners face leading up to their big day. If you're planning same-sex nuptials or know someone who is, then check out these handy wedding planning books for LGBT lovebirds!

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Summer Reading Recs From Some of Our Favorite Women

Elizabeth Banks and Rashida Jones are two of several famous women we've spoken with to pass along a notable book recommendation or two. Some of our favorite authors have also dished on their page-turner picks. So if you're always on the hunt for a good reading rec like we are, here are some books that have received the stamp of approval by women we love.

Source: Getty
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Celebrity Authors: Would You Read Their Books?

Like a perfume or designer clothing line, celebrities use their personal brands to sell books, ostensibly written by themselves with the often not-so-secret help of a ghostwriter. Books authored by women originally famous for anything but writing range from tell-alls, to thinly-veiled autobiographical novels, to, in the case of Madonna and Kim Cattrall, sex manuals. I've read and enjoyed some myself, like the comedic memoirs of Chelsea Handler, while others intrigue me enough to add to my reading list — I might just download Pamela Anderson's novel Star next time I come down with a cold. I chose some of the most high-profile celebrity-penned books out there, and I want you to vote on each one: read or shelve?

Source: Getty
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Unlikely Young Heroines in Literature Who Inspire Us

We've been reminiscing about classic books from our school days. Many of them, including To Kill a Mockingbird and A Wrinkle in Time, featured heroic young girls who inspired us growing up. Some of our favorite "kids" books — that are just as relevant and enjoyable to read today — feature strong, multidimensional heroines who persevered despite being overlooked because of their size, age, and sex. These adventurous young women hold a special place in our hearts and minds, so let's take a look at some of the most inspiring 16-and-under heroines in literature.

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Sugar Editors' Picks: Our Favorite Reads of the Year

We're always looking for a promising page-turner to pack in our carry-ons for this season's unexpected layovers, long road trips, and fireside downtime. Here at POPSUGAR, we've been swapping books and dishing on recommended reading all year long, so we thought we'd share some of our literary loves with all of you. So if you're looking for book recs for the holidays, we've rounded up our editors' favorite reads from 2012!

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101 Memoirs Penned by Famous Females

Only a select few have the opportunity to be famous, be they actors, athletes, or politicians. But if the women in your life want a taste of what it's like to walk in a celebrity's shoes (or stilettos), then give them that chance by gifting them a book by someone who's been there. These juicy memoirs are all authored by famous women — whether they wanted notoriety or not — and your starstruck sisters may find out that the lifestyle of the rich and famous isn't all it's cracked up to be. From scandalous tell-alls to self-helps filled with personal stories, here are 101 memoirs by comedians, soap stars, Olympians, first ladies, and Playboy Bunnies to give your female friends and family members this holiday season!

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New Books to Check Out in February

A 1950s love story about a poet and author told through letters and a tale of vampires in a lemon grove are both among new books out in February. Cozy up with one of February's most promising new titles. Just watch now to get three new books to add to your must-read list.

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The Night Circus Author Erin Morgenstern Talks Twilight and Harry Potter Comparisons

As a huge Harry Potter fan, I must admit my interest was piqued when I heard about a book being compared to the magical series, The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern. To add fuel to the buzzy fire, the film rights for the book have been picked up by Twilight's entertainment company Summit. After reading the enchanting, sensory love story (targeted for adults, I should add) about dueling magicians who fall in love while competing in a mysterious circus that runs from nightfall to dawn, I believe it stands on its own. We chatted with Erin, who has a background in theater and studio art, about her first novel and whom she could picture playing protagonists and star-crossed lovers Celia and Marco on the big screen.

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April 2012 Must Reads

Flowers were blooming, temps were rising, and April 2012 brought Spring break, Easter, Passover, Coachella, wedding season, and more. So whether you were killing time on a plane or soaking up the sun in a park, we had some book recommendations to check out during your free time. Get ready to bookmark the most promising new releases of April 2012 now!

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Young-Adult Novels Worth Reading Again

The iconic YA author of Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret, Judy Blume, will always be young at heart thanks to her understanding of what it's like for a girl to come of age. Today, young-adult titles like Twilight or The Hunger Games have captured the attention of teens and adults alike. But if want to get back in touch with a younger, and maybe more confused, version of yourself, pick up a "vintage" title that you may have read when you were growing up. To get you started here are 13 young-adult books to read again.

Source: Shutterstock
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June 2012 Must Reads

The end of the school year, the start of Summer, and the beginning of vacation season — June 2012 marked the perfect time to stock your bookshelves. There were plenty of options out that month: thrillers, thoughtful memoirs, and debut fiction novels fit for the beach. Whether you're into historical drama or suspenseful mysteries, we've rounded up the can't-miss reads to check out from June 2012.

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Add Stories of True Love on the Titanic to Your Reading List

Titanic the movie captures a romance between aristocratic passenger Rose DeWitt Bukater and third class artist Jack Dawson, but the real-life love that played out during the tragedy is just as captivating and heartbreaking. The stories of high-class couples like millionaire John Jacob Astor IV, the richest man on the Titanic, and his pregnant young wife, as well as tales of working class lovers aboard the ship have been chronicled in books that often include photos, article clippings, and first-hand interviews. Here are Titanic titles to add to your reading list.

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15 Books You Won't Be Able to Put Down

We asked our readers: what's the last book you read that you couldn't put down? So pulling their reading recs and adding our own, we came up with 15 books you'll most likely be up all night poring over. There are YA romances, mystery thrillers, and everything in between. So prepare to hole yourself up with one of these highly recommended books now!

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3 Books Every Single Girl Should Read

With all the relationship and self-help books out there it can be overwhelming to navigate the bookshelves or Amazon for the perfect set of words that will help you heal from a messy breakup, discover a new dating method, or learn to date smarter. Beyond online ratings or recommended reading lists, books that your friends can vouch for are the ones you're likely to pick up and actually read. So for all you single gals out there, here are three quick, intriguing reads that are sure to change your emotional — and maybe even your relationship — status for the better.

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Add the 2011 National Book Critics Circle Awards Winners to Your Reading List

After rounding up some of the best books published in 2010, the National Book Critics Circle announced the six winners of 2011. Why not add the collection of winning titles — from various genres including poetry, fiction, and nonfiction — to your reading list? Here's a brief description of each, to help you decide where to start.

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Motherland Author Amy Sohn Talks Sex, Drugs, and Parenting

If you're not a mother, then you might not expect a novel about motherhood to include passages about smoking pot, underground parties, and Grindr, the gay hookup mobile app. But Motherland is about parents living in Brooklyn after all. Author Amy Sohn, who raises her family there, still thinks her book captures the universal experience of American parents. Find out what she told us about motherhood, writing her new novel, and whether she's lost the friendships of fellow Brooklyn parents while writing about them.

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What We Might Expect From Lena Dunham's Upcoming Book

If HBO's Girls didn't convince you that writer and actress Lena Dunham is a least a voice of her generation, then her multimillion-dollar book deal might. The 26-year-old reportedly signed a deal with Random House that tops $3.5 million. The book is called Not That Kind of Girl: A Young Woman Tells You What She's Learned, and while she's still pretty young, Lena will dish her thoughts on everything from sex to success. Lena has been in the press quite a bit, giving us a hint at her brand of wisdom. Read on for her best interview quotes now, which might preview what's in that book apparently worth millions.

Source: Getty
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Get Romantic With Books About Legendary Love Stories

Furious Love: Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and the Marriage of the Century follows the famous pair's relational ups and downs, but it's just one of the many books that are inspired by real-life love. Get romantically inspired with some of the most famous love stories in history. It doesn't matter if you're single or coupled up, no one can resist a juicy story of passion, glamour, and tragedy — especially if it's true! So here are some of the books we recommend you dive into to learn more about history's most fascinating love stories.

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July 2012 Must Reads

Just in time for Summer's long travel days and hours spent lounging by the pool, we had the July 2012 books we couldn't wait to dive into. There were Marilyn Monroe page-turners, a mother-daughter memoir, juicy romance novels, and historical fiction. Check out these and other books that hit shelves that month.

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How to Live and Love Like a Jane Austen Heroine

Jane Austen created some of the most rich, complicated female characters in literary history. To celebrate the 200th anniversary of her masterpiece Pride and Prejudice — and its biting protagonist, Elizabeth Bennet — we've gathered thoughtful, witty, and poignant lines from her greatest leading ladies. We could all take a cue in British charm and wit from the likes of Emma Woodhouse, Mary Crawford, Marianne Dashwood, and, of course, Miss Bennet. So let's step into the slippers of Jane Austen's heroines to find out what they had to say about romance, wealth, friendship, and more!

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Beautiful Bastard Is the New Fifty Shades of Grey

Twilight-inspired erotica is shaping up to be its own genre of literature. Beautiful Bastard is the latest steamy title to hit the bestseller list after beginning as Twilight fan fiction. Forget Edward Cullen and Isabella Swan or Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele — Bennett Ryan and Chloe Mills are the new hot couple overcome by forbidden love.

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Book Ideas to Spread Love on Valentine's Day

If you need a Valentine's Day gift for your new boyfriend, husband, single friend, mom, or sister, then we're here to help. We've selected three books ranging from hilarious to earnest that will help you spread the love. Watch now, and then go run out to pick them up for a special someone.

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The Evolution of Sexy Librarians in Pop Culture

There seems to be two sides to the stereotypical coin when it comes to portraying librarians. They're either shy, strict, shushing, and often elderly ladies, or they're the young, hot "sexy librarian" who will take off her glasses and let her hair down to seduce you. But there have been exceptions to the rule, proving that smart and witty librarians can be "sexy" without the cleavage. No matter how they're portrayed, it's interesting to see the many iterations of librarians in books, movies, and even music videos over the years. Let's take a look back at the evolution of these book-stamping babes now!

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April 2013 Must Reads

If you've been craving a good tell-all, then this April is your month. Former exchange student Amanda Knox is coming out with her much-anticipated memoir, and a behind-the-scenes look at the cutthroat world of morning TV will also hit shelves. Mixed in with those new titles are a time-traveling novel about Paris and a tale of two best friends who decide to marry when they're still single at 30. Get the scoop on those books and more with our roundup of April's most promising new books.

Source: Shutterstock
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Books Prove That English Are Less Emotional Than Americans

We all know the stereotype that Yanks are more emotional than the stiff-upper-lip English. But a new study purports to pinpoint the moment — the 1960s — when the shift in expression occurred, at least in the written word.

Source: Getty
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March 2013 Must Reads

With March came madness and the most anticipated new book releases of the month. There was a new page-turner that follows former secretary of state Hillary Clinton from Beirut to the "heart of American power." If you have a weakness for baby sloths — à la Kristen Bell — then you'll melt over A Little Book of Sloth. And if you're a fan of Downton Abbey, then there's a novel you may find hauntingly delightful. Check out all these and the rest of our must reads for March!

Source: Shutterstock
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