A Female Rage Reading List: 10 Books That Scream to Be Read

One of Vanity Fair's Books That Will Get You Through This Winter, "A Certain Hunger" is a uniquely fun and campily gory piece of fiction. Chelsea G. Summers narrates the life of Dorothy Daniels, a food critic whose passion for culinary arts is rivaled only by her love for seduction and chaos. As Dorothy embraces her inner psychopath, the novel critiques early foodieism, gender definitions, and offers a spellbinding perspective on female rage interwoven with satire and storytelling.

In "Circe," Madeline Miller delivers a bold retelling of the life of Circe, the formidable sorceress from "The Odyssey." This #1 New York Times bestseller portrays Circe's evolution as she discovers her inherent power amid the world of men and gods. Banished to a deserted island, she encounters legendary figures of mythology and confronts her destiny, showcasing a woman's strength and resilience in a patriarchal society.

"Nightbitch," now a major motion picture starring Amy Adams, captures the journey of a mother who, feeling lost in her domestic role, begins to believe she is transforming into a dog. This surreal and satirical exploration of motherhood, identity, and personal transformation embraces themes of empowerment and societal expectations in a woman’s life.

Naomi Alderman's "The Power" envisions a world where women suddenly gain the ability to produce devastating electrical energy. As societies grapple with this unexpected shift, the novel examines the dynamics of power, gender roles, and the consequences of newfound strength. It’s a provocative exploration that showcases the primal instincts unleashed within the spheres of female rage and authority.

In "The Once and Future Witches," Alix E. Harrow reclaims witchcraft in the context of the suffrage movement. Set in 1893, three sisters engage with the political landscape, intertwining witchcraft with the fight for equality. This novel celebrates female strength and solidarity, evoking themes of rebellion against societal constraints and the rediscovery of forgotten powers.

"They Never Learn" by Layne Fargo delivers a gripping narrative where an English professor takes revenge on male predators using her intelligence and cunning. As the story unfolds, it intertwines themes of female empowerment and moral ambiguity, revealing how women navigate a world filled with violence and systemic injustice. A thrilling ode to revenge and the complex dynamics of female anger.

A USA TODAY bestseller, "Slewfoot" weaves a dark fantasy tale of magic, colonialism, and gender dynamics. Set in 1666 Connecticut, Abitha, a widow and outsider, engages with a wild spirit named Slewfoot. Together, they confront the oppressive forces of a puritanical society, embodying themes of female resilience and rebellion against patriarchal narratives.

Gillian Flynn's "Gone Girl" is a masterclass in psychological suspense, exploring the darkest corners of marriage. The tale begins with Amy’s mysterious disappearance on her fifth wedding anniversary, leading to shocking revelations about her relationship with Nick. The novel intricately dissects themes of manipulation, betrayal, and the societal expectations placed on women, forming a chilling portrait of rage and revenge.

"Come Closer" centers on Amanda, whose seemingly perfect life spirals into chaos as she experiences disturbances and strange occurrences. As she delves into the world of possession, the narrative confronts themes of identity, control, and deep-seated fears. Through the lens of horror fiction, this novel explores the complexities of female rage and societal pressures.

In "When Women Were Dragons," author Kelly Barnhill invites readers into an alternate history where women transform into dragons in the 1950s, symbolizing their reclaiming of power and identity. This feminist fantasy delves into a society grappling with gender expectations, highlighting themes of anger, acceptance, and the struggle against constraints imposed by society.