Updated in 2026. Previously written in 2019.
When I set up as freelance in 2018, there’s the ideal home office dream you idolise, coffee dates and endless free time in your pyjamas but the actual business that comes with it that can disrupt that dream a little bit. I was always sending EVERY book recommendation I could think of to my friends who were in a similar stage of careers. So I decided to collate it into the four books that are my go-to recommendations for freelancers and bloggers alike. If you’re serious about making your side-hustle/extra income/hobby become a ‘thing’ these are the top books I recommend.
The Multi Hyphen Method – Emma Gannon
Best for: Any blogger who wants to step up their game, a freelancer trying to juggle a few ideas or new to the business scene.
I’ve banged on about this book every month I swear but it truly is the definition of ‘blogging for business in a book.’ I love the multi-hyphen mentality as it’s a mantra I go by. I believe I’m good at multiple skills and jobs and I am not just one title. Yes as an editor it covers a lot, I have my blog, freelance work and digital marketing. I am more than just a title and if you’re feeling like you’re stuck in a job that doesn’t let you push past that or you want to go freelance – this is the book for you. See my full review here because I just love talking about this book!
I love how Emma writes, her columns and books are admirable and have the up most respect for her way of working. This is the must-read for anyone looking to step into freelancing or full time blogging.
Buy yours here for £7.99 from Amazon [af] (as of July 2026)
How To Be An Overnight Success – Making It In Business – Maria Hatzistefanis
Best for: Anyone who wants to make more of a business out of their work, anyone freelancing rather than a full time blogger
This book follows the story of how the owner of Rodial skincare reached her big brand name. You can see my full review of this book here. This is a real kick ass book about how to make it as a women in business, how she created a brand she wanted and the pitfalls you may face. It also includes what it means to be a big name on Instagram, how to own the room and tips on being the best business woman you can be. One to read occasionally to remind you what is possible as a business owner, I like that despite how big her brand is, it doesn’t seem unobtainable like some business books can! A really lighthearted read and great for a motivation boost.
Pick up your copy for only £10.00 (paperback) 99p kindle [af] as of July 2026.
The Working Woman’s Handbook – Phoebe Lovatt
Best for: Anyone who needs advice on where the hell to start when it comes to freelancing, if you’re wondering if it’s for you or you need a mentor
This is potentially my favourite freelancing book. I love the layout, the tips, the case studies and tasks you can use to figure things out. The best part about this book if you’re a blogger with a full time job but looking at freelancing is to take the quiz to find out if you’re most suited to ’employed, freelance or entrepreneur.’ There are so many useful tips to get you into a business mindset if you’re just starting off including things like fees, costs and where to start as a business owner. I’m pretty sure this book helped me figure out how much I would charge as a day rate too which is really useful because everyone keeps that shh online.
You can use this like a handbook (as the name suggests) to dip in and out of when you need some advice or reassurance.
- I’m struggling to find copies of this now in 2026 but do check out World of Books or Ebay!
Little Black Book – A Toolkit for Working Women – Otegha Uwagba
Best for: Anyone at any stage of their working career, be it freelance, full time employed or blogging for business
This book ticks all the boxes in one small convenient book. It discusses all the topics you are afraid to talk about from public speaking, presenting, negotiating, networking, fees and much more. It’s such a small book that it’s perfect for dipping in and out from. It reminded me to look at my rates and worth, the bigger you get, the more valuable you are. This is just the perfect book and at such an affordable price I highly recommend it. So accessible for any working woman.
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All of these books have different purposes depending on your career stage but as a freelancer or blogger, I highly recommend reading. It takes you off scene, they tend to avoid generic obvious blurb that you find online.