If you, like me, are completely obsessed with the new movie Babygirl right now, just know that you are not alone. And that you have great taste 😉 If you’re a bookworm and you’re trying to keep the Babygirl vibes going in your TBR, I have some book recommendations to share! Whether it’s the reverse age-gap relationships, power dynamics, spice, or complex emotions that hooked you, I’ve compiled a list of 10 books that share some of Babygirl‘s most intriguing themes. There’s a mix of literary fiction, romance, and memoirs, so there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive in! Head to my BookTube to watch this instead of reading it here.

1. Vladimir by Julia May Jonas

Vladimir by Julia May Jonas is a provocative and darkly comedic literary novel follows an older, respected professor whose life begins to spiral as she develops an obsessive fixation on Vladimir, a handsome, young professor newly hired at her university. As her personal life crumbles—her husband faces allegations of inappropriate behavior, and their open marriage strains under public scrutiny—she embarks on a path of desire and power that leads to up to one epic climax! (no pun intended).

I love any excuse to talk about my favorite book ever! Although, it does have a lot in common with the film Babygirl…I promise! Vladimir dives into the complexities of age-gap dynamics and explores questions of obsession, power, and self-perception. Both works toy with who holds control in these unconventional relationships and delve into themes of vulnerability, desire, and identity, making Vladimir a perfect pick for fans of the movie. Have I convinced you to read my favorite book?

2. All Fours by Miranda July

All Fours by Miranda July has received a new tsunami wave of attention following the release of Babygirl, making it somewhat of an unofficial book mascot for the film. All Fours follows an older woman on a solo road trip, where she embarks on a journey of sexual awakening and self-discovery. The story takes a bold and unflinching look at desire, identity, and the often awkward ways people seek connection. Set largely in a seedy motel, the protagonist’s experiences blend vulnerability, humor, and raw intimacy, pushing societal boundaries and personal inhibitions.

Like Babygirl, All Fours shares themes of unconventional relationships, sexual exploration, and moments that are both cringeworthy and captivating.

3. The Idea of You by Robinne Lee

Hello again to one of my favorite books of 2024! If you haven’t read or seen The Idea of You by Robinne Lee yet, have you been living under a rock? This swoonworthy romance follows Solène, a 39-year-old art gallery owner, as she unexpectedly falls for Hayes Campbell, a 20-year-old member of the world’s hottest boy band. What begins as a whirlwind summer fling quickly turns into a deeply emotional love affair, forcing Solène to navigate the challenges of fame, societal judgment, and the complexities of love that defies conventional norms.

The Idea of You definitely shares some similarities with Babygirl. Both stories center on reverse age-gap relationships, exploring themes of obsession, power dynamics, and the push-pull of desire. If you loved the sexy, emotionally charged tone of Babygirl, The Idea of You offers a similarly addictive mix of romance, tension, and heartbreak. Still hoping for a surprise sequel one day…

4. The Piano Teacher by Elfriede Jelinek

The Piano Teacher by Elfriede Jelinek is a harrowing exploration of repression, obsession, and power. The story follows Erika Kohut, a middle-aged piano teacher in Vienna, who lives under the suffocating control of her domineering mother. Beneath her strict exterior lies a woman grappling with dark, masochistic desires. When she begins an affair with her much younger student, Walter Klemmer, the relationship spirals into a toxic interplay of power and submission, ultimately leading to devastating consequences.

The Piano Teacher and Babygirl have thematic similarities in its portrayal of taboo relationships, reversed age dynamics, the exploration of power imbalances, and sadomasochist kinks. Both works delve into the tension between desire and control, offering raw and unsettling insights into human relationships.

5. Pen Pal by J.T. Geissinger

Pen Pal by J.T. Geissinger is a dark, spicy romance with a haunting twist. It’s honestly one of the best books I’ve ever read in my life. Don’t you hate falling in love with fictional book characters? *sigh* Pen Pal follows Kayla, a grieving widow dealing with strange occurrences in her home and receiving cryptic letters from a mysterious prisoner. As she begins an affair with a rugged, dominant handyman (hello, Babygirl), secrets unravel, and the lines between love, obsession, and danger blur.

Similar to Babygirl, Pen Pal hones in on a male dominant sexual relationship that doesn’t shy away at all! Instead of calling his woman “babygirl”, he calls her his “bunny”, lol. There’s also a lot of high stakes and emotional intensity that will keep you reading late into the night. If you loved Babygirl for its bold intimate scenes, Pen Pal might just become your new favorite book! Reader discretion advised.

6. On the Island by Tracey Garvis Graves

On the Island by Tracey Garvis Graves is a gripping romance and survival story about Anna, a 30-year-old English teacher, and T.J., a 16-year-old cancer survivor, who are stranded on a deserted island after their plane crashes. As they navigate the perils of survival, their bond deepens, and as years pass, their relationship evolves into a romance. The novel sensitively explores themes of resilience, emotional growth, and unconventional love.

Both On the Island and Babygirl have parallels in the reverse age-gap relationship and the exploration of societal taboos. Both stories delve into complex emotions, power dynamics, and the blurred lines of desire and connection, making On the Island a compelling read for those drawn to Babygirl’s bold storytelling.

7. The Young Man by Annie Ernaux

In The Young Man, Nobel Prize-winning author Annie Ernaux recounts her affair with a university student 30 years her junior while she was in her 50s. This brief but powerful memoir delves into themes of desire, age, and identity, as Ernaux reflects on how the relationship both redefined her sense of self and allowed her to confront societal norms.

Much like the film Babygirl, The Young Man explores the complexities of reverse age-gap relationships, power dynamics, and the emotional intensity of crossing societal taboos. Both works feature a central female protagonist navigating her desires with a younger partner, offering a candid look at vulnerability, obsession, and self-discovery. Fans of Babygirl will likely appreciate Ernaux’s fearless honesty and the raw emotional depth of her storytelling.

8. Simple Passion and Getting Lost by Annie Ernaux

If Nobel-Prize winning author, Annie Ernaux has an affair, you can bet she’s going to write about it!These two erotic memoirs focus on Ernaux’s affair with a young Soviet diplomat in the late 1980s. Getting Lost is a collection of Ernaux’s private journals during the affair, whereas Simple Passion speaks about the affair as a whole. She chronicles her obsessive longing for him, offering a candid glimpse into her emotions. If you enjoyed Babygirl‘s emotional intensity, these books are a must-read.

10. The Naked Truth by Leslie Morgan

The Naked Truth by Leslie Morgan which is about female sexuality, self-esteem and dating after 50. Leslie is recently divorced at 50 decides to dedicate a year to searching for five new lovers in hopes of unearthing the erotic adventures and authentic connections long missing from her life. Sound similar to Babygirl at all?

What Do You Think?

Have you read any of these books, or do you have other recommendations for Babygirl-inspired reads? Drop your suggestions in the comments! Let’s keep this list growing. Stay tuned for more book reviews and recommendations!

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