The Best Books of 2025 (So Far): Life Lessons, Drama, and a Little Chaos
There’s something magical about a book that completely takes over your life—the kind that makes you ignore laundry, bedtime, and possibly your own personal hygiene (no judgment). And since I’m nothing if not a giver, I’m here to share my favorite reads of 2025 so far.
These books have inspired me, entertained me, and in one case, made me question my entire relationship with Chardonnay. So, grab your favorite blanket and let’s dive in.
For Life Building: Books That Might Actually Change You
Get your copy of The Let Them Theory, by Mel Robins.
1. The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins
Mel Robbins strikes again with another life-changing, slap-you-in-the-face kind of book. The Let Them Theory is all about giving up the exhausting habit of trying to control everything and just... letting people do whatever they want. Revolutionary, I know.
Turns out, when you stop trying to micromanage the universe, life gets a whole lot easier. No more bending over backward to please people, no more endless emotional labor, and most importantly—no more wasting energy on people who were going to do whatever they wanted anyway.
Biggest takeaway? People gonna people. Save your energy for things that actually serve you (like reading more books).
2. Quit Like a Woman by Holly Whitaker
I picked this up expecting a memoir/self-help hybrid about ditching alcohol. What I got was a deep dive into why we’ve all been tricked into thinking drinking is cool, empowering, and, dare I say, necessary. Spoiler alert: it’s not.
Even if you’re not planning to swear off happy hour forever, this book is packed with insights about autonomy, self-care, and how marketing has manipulated us into thinking "mommy wine culture" is the answer to our stress.
Would I recommend? Absolutely. Just maybe don’t read it while drinking wine—feels a little counterproductive.
For Fun: Books That Remind You Why Reading Is the Best Escape
Get your copy of The Briar Club by Kate Quinn.
1. The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
Historical fiction lovers, assemble. Kate Quinn once again delivers a story that is equal parts thrilling, heart-wrenching, and leave-me-alone-I’m-reading good.
Set in the Cold War era, The Briar Club follows a group of women navigating secrets, betrayals, and espionage in 1950s Washington, D.C. It’s the kind of book that keeps you up until 2 AM whispering, “Just one more chapter” (which is, of course, a lie).
Did I love it? Yes. Should you read it? Also yes.
2. Funny Story by Emily Henry
Emily Henry could write my grocery list, and I’d probably still give it five stars. Funny Story is her latest romance masterpiece, delivering the kind of banter, chemistry, and just enough emotional depth to make you laugh and cry.
It’s a story about two people who start off as reluctant roommates, both rebounding from their exes, and somehow find themselves in a “fake dating” situation (which, as we all know, is the most elite of romance tropes).
Final verdict? Read it. You’ll swoon, you’ll giggle, and you’ll probably develop an unrealistic expectation for romantic gestures.
For History & Background: Books That Remind Us Where We Came From
1. From Here to the Great Unknown by Lisa Marie Presley and Riley Keough
Get your copy of From Here to the Great Unknown.
This book is a must-read for anyone who has ever been fascinated by the Presley family legacy. Lisa Marie and Riley Keough dive deep into their family’s past, from Elvis’s larger-than-life career to the struggles and triumphs of being born into that world.
It’s part memoir, part cultural history, and completely captivating. A reminder that behind all the glitz and fame, there are real people with real struggles (and, in this case, some absolutely wild family stories).
Would I recommend? 100%. It’s emotional, insightful, and absolutely fascinating.
2. My Name Is Barbra by Barbra Streisand
If you love a memoir that spills the tea, My Name Is Barbra is an absolute must-read. The iconic Barbra Streisand tells her life story in her own words, from her Brooklyn childhood to becoming one of the most celebrated entertainers of all time.
I hear it is packed with behind-the-scenes Hollywood moments, personal struggles, and her signature wit. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just love a juicy, well-written memoir, this one should be worth every page (and at nearly 1,000 pages, that’s saying something).
Next on My List? You bet. I’m gearing up for what promises to be a dramatic, hilarious, and unapologetically fabulous ride through the life of a legend. Plus, if anyone can make a 1,000-page memoir feel like a Broadway show, it’s Barbra.
Final Thoughts: What Should You Read Next?
If you’re looking for:
📚 A book to help you stop caring about what people think → The Let Them Theory
📚 A book that makes you rethink drinking culture → Quit Like a Woman
📚 A Cold War thriller with badass women → The Briar Club
📚 A romance that gives you all the feels → Funny Story
📚 A deep dive into Presley family history → From Here to the Great Unknown
📚 A memoir from an absolute icon → My Name Is Barbra
These books have kept me entertained, inspired, and (mostly) avoiding my to-do list. Now it’s your turn! What’s been your favorite read of 2025 so far? Drop your book recommendations in the comments—I’m always looking to add to my TBR pile (even if it’s already threatening to collapse).
Are you in the mood to invest in yourself beyond just great books?
Check out one of our Womanhood Unwrapped courses—because personal growth doesn’t stop at the last page of a book. Whether it’s branding, confidence, or career-building, we’ve got something for you. Explore courses here!
