The literary legend Jane Austen herself once said “there is no enjoyment like reading”, albeit through the disingenuous mouth of Pride and Prejudice’s Caroline Bingley. In our opinion, though, never has a truer word been spoken. 

To start with, entering a new world by way of its pages is a beautiful form of escapism. And when we’re feeling stressed or lonely, wrapping ourselves inside a story can be endlessly comforting. But there’s plenty of other benefits, too. 

From improving memory and imagination to reducing stress and helping us sleep, there’s lots of reasons to pick up a book. Which is why, you might say, so many of us count ‘reading more’ as one of our goals for the new year - something which we have the perfect tactic for helping you succeed in.

With so many must-read book lists about, and so little time in our busy lives, it can be hard to keep on top of what’s new or spare a moment to research which titles are really worth the investment. A way around this? Treat yourself to a book subscription. 

Not only do we fully endorse signing yourself up for a monthly treat (you are absolutely worth it), it’s a way of taking the hassle out of getting your hands on your next tome. Also - who doesn’t love a little gift through their letter box every once in a while?

We’ve rounded up three of the best book subscriptions, all selected because they have made it their mission to champion the voices of female writers.

So get ready to support the sisterhood, enlighten your mind on themes like gender, race, culture and class, and help shine a light on those brilliant writers that aren’t currently getting the recognition they deserve.

Rare Birds Book Club

Top of the list comes the Rare Birds Book Club. You might think this kooky name harks to a tropical feathery being, but in fact it’s a clever nod to all the forgotten or unrecognised women writers and their incredible works. 

The Rare Birds Book Club selects the best contemporary women’s fiction and celebrates female authors writing books they think you’ll love. They pride themselves on being book experts, promising to never send you a novel that doesn’t live up to expectations, and have stressed that their goal is ease. Which means that, yes, signing up is a walk in the park.

Whether you buy in a three, six or 12 monthly bulk - or just opt for a rolling subscription - you’ll receive one surprise book a month. Not only is the packaging fun, colourful and (most importantly) stylish, there’s often cute extras in your box too. After you’re done, log on to their members site and you can have yourself a little digital book club to discuss that plot twist or cliffhanger ending. 

How much is it? £10 a month for a rolling contract, £33 for three months, £66 for six months. 

Reading in Heels 

Reading in Heels is like having Carrie Bradshaw as your best friend. Fabulous, utterly in-the-know and the perfect amount of candyfloss-sweet light-relief to brighten up a bad day, this book subscription concentrates on female-focused contemporary literature. 

Each monthly box comes with a selection of treats, all synchronised into a chic theme and ranging from chocolate and teas to beauty minis. So not only do you get a brilliant new read, but potentially a lovely face mask to wear while you do so, which we think cleverly encourages you to take some self-care time. 

Previous boxes have included mini candles, collaborations with boutique tea company T2 and Malin + Goetz Advanced Renewal Cream.

How much is it? £10 a month

Books that matter 

If you truly want to support the sisterhood, this is the subscription for you. Books That Matter aims to empower and inspire women through amazing literature, chosen to enlighten your mind on themes of gender, race, culture, class, ethnicity, ability, sexuality, politics, or history. 

Inside each box awaits a book “that matters”, as well as at least two gifts by independent female-identifying or non-binary artists. Not only do we adore the brand’s image, with on-trend illustrations decorating everything they do from totes to t-shirts, but most importantly, their mantra which is to represent the voices of women of colour, transgender authors, less able women, and queer writers.

How much is it? £12 for one month, with three monthly bundles being priced at £36 and so on. 

Images: Getty / Instagram