Top books to read in 2025 | 16 Books You Need to Read at Least Once in Your Life

Top books to read in 2025

Hey book lovers! If you're like me, your heart races at the sight of a good bookstore, and your to-be-read pile grows faster than you can turn the pages. But there are some books that leave an unforgettable mark—stories that stay with you long after you’ve read the last sentence. So, I’ve rounded up 16 books that, in my opinion, everyone should read at least once. Whether you’re looking for romance, heartache, or magic, there’s something here for every mood. Let’s dive in!

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Powerless

by Lauren Roberts

This book is an emotional whirlwind. Powerless pulls you in with its deeply human characters and poignant storytelling. It’s about strength in the face of overwhelming challenges and finding your voice when the world seems determined to silence you. It’s one of those books where you reflect on your own life, feeling empowered by the characters’ journey.

Pages: 495

Language: English
Year: 2023

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**Let That Sh*t Go**

by Nina Purewal and Kate Petriw

The title says it all. If you’ve ever felt weighed down by stress, anxiety, or just life’s everyday chaos, this book is a breath of fresh air. With practical advice on mindfulness, it’s both witty and insightful, making it perfect for when you need a reminder to let go of the things that don’t serve you.

Pages: 352

Language: English
Year: 2021

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Everything I Know About Love

by Dolly Alderton

Dolly Alderton’s memoir is raw, relatable, and brimming with the bittersweet reality of growing up and navigating relationships. It’s funny, heart-wrenching, and full of truths about love, friendships, and the sometimes-messy path of adulthood. I laughed, I cried, and I highlighted way too many quotes.

Pages: 300

Language: English
Year: 2021

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Love and Other Words

by Christina Lauren

This one is for the hopeless romantics. Love and Other Words is a second-chance romance that hits all the right notes. The love story is sweet, tender, and beautifully written, exploring how our first loves shape us and the weight of words left unsaid.

Pages: 432

Language: English
Year: 2018

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Almond

by Won-pyung Sohn

I can’t recommend Almond enough. This book, originally from South Korea, tells the story of a boy born without the ability to feel emotions like fear or anger. It’s a beautifully written exploration of empathy, connection, and what it means to be human. It made me think deeply about how we process our emotions and interact with others.

Pages: 272

Language: English
Year: 2020

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A Court of Thorns and Roses

by Sarah J. Maas

If you love fantasy, adventure, and a dash of romance, this is a must-read. Maas builds an incredible world filled with danger, magic, and characters you can't help but fall in love with. A Court of Thorns and Roses will leave you breathless with its gripping plot and swoon-worthy romance.

Pages: 432

Language: English
Year: 2020

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Cleopatra and Frankenstein

by Coco Mellors

If you’re into complex relationships and the tangled webs people weave, you’ll love this. Cleopatra and Frankenstein explores the messiness of love, art, and life. It’s a story about two people who meet at the wrong time and how their lives become forever intertwined in unexpected ways.

Pages: 384

Language: English
Year: 2022

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Once Upon a Broken Heart

by Stephanie Garber

I was captivated by Garber’s whimsical, fairy-tale-like storytelling. This book transports you to a magical realm filled with unpredictable twists and a spellbinding love story. It’s perfect for when you want to escape reality and dive into something fantastical.

Pages: 416

Language: English
Year: 2021

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The Things We Leave Unfinished

by Rebecca Yarros

Prepare for all the feels. This dual-timeline romance blends heartbreak and hope, with WWII letters that tug at your heartstrings. Yarros expertly weaves past and present, showing us that love—whether found or lost—leaves an indelible mark on our lives.

Pages: 448

Language: English
Year: 2021

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Love Redesigned

by Lauren Asher

If you’re in the mood for something fun, flirty, and heartwarming, Love Redesigned delivers. Asher crafts a feel-good romance with characters you’ll root for. It’s a reminder that love can surprise you in the most unexpected ways, and sometimes, all you need is a fresh start.

Pages: 528

Language: English
Year: 2023

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The Lonely Stories: 22 Celebrated Writers on the Joys & Struggles of Being Alone

by Natalie Eve Garrett

This anthology is a beautiful meditation on solitude, featuring essays from 22 brilliant writers. It offers a diverse range of perspectives on loneliness, isolation, and the beauty of being alone. It’s comforting, especially if you’ve ever felt the quiet ache of solitude.

Pages: 272

Language: English
Year: 2022

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Shatter Me

by Tahereh Mafi

This dystopian series starts with a bang. Shatter Me is a thrilling ride with a protagonist whose touch is lethal. It’s packed with action, emotion, and an unforgettable love triangle that will leave you torn between characters. If you’re looking for a fast-paced story with a lot of heart, this one’s for you.

Pages: 368

Language: English
Year: 2018

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Daisy Jones and The Six

by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Written as an oral history, this book is a masterpiece in storytelling. It follows the rise and fall of a fictional 70s rock band and feels so real, you’ll forget it’s fiction. The characters are so vivid and flawed, you’ll feel like you’re reading about real people. Plus, the behind-the-scenes drama and love stories make it unputdownable.

Pages: 368

Language: English
Year: 2019

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If He Had Been with Me

by Laura Nowlin

Oh, this one is a tear-jerker. If He Had Been with Me tells the heartbreaking story of missed opportunities and what-ifs in love and life. It’s beautifully written, and the emotional depth will leave you thinking about it long after you’ve turned the final page.

Pages: 416

Language: English
Year: 2019

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Twisted Love

by Ana Huang

Dark, steamy, and full of drama, Twisted Love is for those who love a sizzling romance with a twist. Huang’s writing pulls you into a world of secrets, passion, and intense chemistry. It’s the kind of book you devour in one sitting.

Pages: 352

Language: English
Year: 2022

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Fourth Wing

by Rebecca Yarros

The latest sensation in the fantasy genre, Fourth Wing is pure magic. Yarros creates a vivid world where dragons, danger, and romance collide. The characters are complex, and the plot twists will leave you gasping. If you’re a fantasy lover, don’t sleep on this one!

Pages: 528

Language: English
Year: 2023

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So, there you have it! Sixteen books that I truly believe should be on everyone’s reading list. From fantasy worlds to heart-wrenching romances, each one offers something special. I hope you find your next favorite read here—and when you do, let me know what you think! Happy reading!

Note: Some of the items in this blog include Amazon Affiliate and other links which earn a small commission.

Early Life and Childhood

Gabrielle Zevin was born on October 24, 1977, in New York City, a vibrant setting that would profoundly influence her creative journey. Raised in a culturally rich environment, Zevin's upbringing was marked by a deep engagement with literature and storytelling. Her parents, who were both involved in the arts, nurtured her love for reading and writing from a young age.

As a child, Zevin was known for her inquisitive nature and a burgeoning imagination. She attended the Brearley School, an institution renowned for its emphasis on academic excellence and creative expression, which further honed her literary skills. Her early exposure to a diverse range of literature, combined with her active participation in various creative writing programs, laid the groundwork for her future career as an author.

Education and Early Career

Zevin pursued higher education at Harvard University, where she majored in English and American Literature. During her time at Harvard, she developed a keen interest in storytelling and began to experiment with writing her own fiction. Her college years were formative, providing her with a solid foundation in literary analysis and narrative construction.

Upon graduating from Harvard, Zevin embarked on a career in publishing. She worked as an editor at various publishing houses, which gave her valuable insights into the industry and the nuances of book production. This experience proved instrumental in shaping her approach to writing and storytelling.

Literary Career and Notable Works

Gabrielle Zevin's debut novel, "Elsewhere" (2005), catapulted her into the literary spotlight. The novel, which explores themes of life, death, and the afterlife, is set in a unique world where people go after they die and continue to live their lives in reverse. "Elsewhere" received critical acclaim for its originality and emotional depth, and it established Zevin as a distinctive voice in contemporary fiction.

Following the success of "Elsewhere," Zevin continued to build her reputation with a diverse range of works:

"Memoirs of a Teenage Amnesiac" (2007): This novel delves into the life of a teenage girl who loses her memory in an accident and must piece together her identity and relationships. It highlights Zevin's talent for blending emotional complexity with engaging storytelling.
"The Hole We're In" (2010): A departure from her earlier works, this novel examines family dynamics and socio-economic issues through the lens of a dysfunctional family. It is noted for its sharp social commentary and character-driven narrative.
"Young Jane Young" (2017): A contemporary reimagining of the fallout from a political scandal, this novel explores themes of public versus private personas and personal redemption. It has been praised for its witty and insightful examination of modern media and political life.
"Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow" (2022): Perhaps one of her most ambitious projects, this novel explores the world of video game design and the lives of its creators over several decades. It combines elements of friendship, creativity, and the impact of technology on human connection. The book has been celebrated for its innovative narrative structure and deep exploration of its characters.

Personal Life and Influence

Gabrielle Zevin’s personal life is marked by her ongoing commitment to writing and storytelling. She lives in New York City, where she continues to work on new projects and engage with the literary community. Her experiences in publishing, combined with her diverse interests, have greatly influenced her work, contributing to her unique voice as a writer.

Zevin's works are characterized by their imaginative premises, rich character development, and exploration of complex themes. Her ability to blend reality with speculative elements allows her to create compelling narratives that resonate with a wide audience.

Legacy and Impact

Gabrielle Zevin has made a significant impact on contemporary literature through her innovative storytelling and exploration of diverse themes. Her books have garnered critical acclaim and a devoted readership, establishing her as a prominent figure in modern fiction. As she continues to write and inspire, her contributions to literature will undoubtedly remain influential for years to come.

Tarah DeWitt is an emerging contemporary romance author, known for her witty, heartfelt storytelling that captures the complexities of human relationships. With a strong voice and relatable characters, DeWitt has quickly gained a dedicated following in the romance genre. Her works often center around themes of personal growth, emotional healing, and the joy and pain of falling in love. Though relatively new to the literary scene, DeWitt has already established herself as a writer to watch, blending humor, vulnerability, and tenderness in her novels.

Early Life and Childhood

Tarah DeWitt has kept much of her personal life private, including the details of her childhood and upbringing. However, it’s clear that her passion for storytelling and her love for reading developed at an early age. Growing up, she was drawn to romance novels and stories that explored the emotional intricacies of relationships. This early exposure to the romance genre sparked her desire to write her own stories and share them with the world.

While not much is publicly known about her background, DeWitt’s novels often reflect a deep understanding of emotional complexity and personal struggles. Her characters are often flawed, real, and working through past trauma or difficult life experiences, which suggests that she brings personal insight to her writing.

Path to Writing

DeWitt's journey to becoming a published author didn’t follow the traditional route. Like many modern authors, she initially found her voice through online platforms, including social media, where she connected with other writers and readers. She began by writing stories in her spare time, experimenting with different styles and tones until she found her niche in contemporary romance.

Her writing career took off when she self-published her first novel, a route that has become increasingly popular for many authors seeking creative freedom. DeWitt quickly gained a following through word of mouth, with readers drawn to her refreshing take on romance. Her books stood out for their strong character development, engaging dialogue, and the blend of humor and depth that made her stories resonate with a wide audience.

DeWitt’s path to success is emblematic of the rise of self-publishing in the digital age. By utilizing online platforms and building a community of readers, she was able to bypass traditional publishing constraints and create a direct connection with her audience.

Writing Style and Themes

Tarah DeWitt’s writing is characterized by its conversational, relatable tone and its focus on character-driven stories. Her novels are often described as "slow-burn" romances, where relationships are built gradually, allowing for deep emotional connections to form between characters. This approach has resonated with readers who appreciate more realistic depictions of love, where emotional intimacy grows over time.

Some of the key themes in DeWitt’s work include:

Personal Growth: Many of DeWitt’s characters are on journeys of self-discovery and healing. Her novels often explore how past trauma, insecurities, and personal challenges can impact romantic relationships, and how love can be a catalyst for growth.
Emotional Vulnerability: DeWitt excels at writing characters who are emotionally complex and vulnerable. Her protagonists are often flawed, but their willingness to confront their insecurities and fears is what makes them relatable and endearing to readers.
Humor and Wit: Despite dealing with deep emotional themes, DeWitt’s novels are also infused with humor. Her characters have witty, playful banter, which provides balance to the more serious moments and makes her stories feel grounded and enjoyable.

Best Works

Though still early in her career, Tarah DeWitt has already penned several well-loved novels that have garnered attention in the romance community. Some of her most notable works include:

The Co-op

The Co-op is one of DeWitt’s most popular novels and showcases her signature style of slow-burn romance. The story revolves around LaRynn and Deacon, two former childhood friends who are brought back together when they inherit a property from their grandparents. Forced to work together to restore the house, the pair must confront their past, including unresolved feelings and misunderstandings from their youth. As they rebuild the house, they also begin to rebuild their relationship.

This novel highlights DeWitt’s ability to create rich emotional arcs, as both LaRynn and Deacon are deeply affected by their shared history and personal struggles. The novel is infused with humor, tender moments, and a sense of nostalgia, making it a standout in her body of work.

Funny Feelings

Funny Feelings is another beloved novel by Tarah DeWitt. This story follows the relationship between Meyer, a rising comedian, and her manager, Farley, a former comedian with a troubled past. What begins as a professional relationship evolves into something deeper as they spend more time together, and Meyer begins to see a side of Farley that he’s kept hidden from the world.

The novel is praised for its exploration of emotional scars and how they can impact relationships. DeWitt weaves in humor and laughter, using Meyer’s career as a comedian as a backdrop to explore themes of vulnerability, fear of failure, and the healing power of love. Funny Feelings has been lauded for its realistic portrayal of romance, where the characters’ chemistry builds naturally over time.

Rootbound

In Rootbound, Tarah DeWitt tells the story of Willa, a woman returning to her small hometown after years away, and Jackson, a man rooted in the same town, who has always loved her from afar. The novel deals with themes of home, identity, and belonging. Willa’s return forces her to confront the life she left behind and the reasons for her departure, while Jackson, who has been a steady presence in the town, must come to terms with his own feelings and the changes Willa’s return brings.

Rootbound is praised for its emotional depth and the way it portrays the push and pull between the desire for independence and the longing for connection. The novel is a testament to DeWitt’s ability to capture the complexities of relationships and the way love can be both comforting and challenging.

Impact and Reception

Though relatively new to the literary scene, Tarah DeWitt has made a significant impact on the contemporary romance genre. Her novels resonate with readers who crave realistic, character-driven stories that explore the complexities of love and personal growth. The emotional depth and authenticity of her writing have earned her a devoted fanbase, and her works have been praised for their ability to balance humor and heart.

DeWitt’s use of humor, particularly in Funny Feelings, has been a standout aspect of her writing. Readers appreciate the lightness that her comedic elements bring to her novels, even when dealing with heavier emotional themes. Her characters are likable, witty, and relatable, making it easy for readers to invest in their journeys.

As she continues to write, DeWitt’s audience is likely to grow, thanks to her distinctive voice and her ability to capture the essence of love and relationships in a way that feels both timeless and contemporary.

Conclusion

Tarah DeWitt is a fresh, compelling voice in contemporary romance, known for her deeply emotional, character-driven stories. Her works, including The Co-op, Funny Feelings, and Rootbound, explore themes of personal growth, vulnerability, and the transformative power of love. DeWitt’s writing is marked by its humor, wit, and emotional resonance, and her ability to create complex, relatable characters has made her a rising star in the genre. As she continues to grow her literary career, Tarah DeWitt is poised to become a beloved author in the world of romance fiction.

Victoria "V.E." Schwab is a prolific American author, renowned for her versatility in crafting imaginative and richly textured worlds across both adult and young adult (YA) genres. Best known for her Shades of Magic trilogy and The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, Schwab's writing blends elements of fantasy, moral complexity, and strong character development. She has become a major force in contemporary fantasy, captivating readers with her unique approach to storytelling, in which she frequently explores themes of identity, power, and freedom.

Early Life and Childhood

Victoria Schwab was born on July 7, 1987, in California, but she spent most of her childhood in Nashville, Tennessee. Growing up, Schwab exhibited an early fascination with storytelling, which was nurtured by a love of reading and a vivid imagination. However, her passion for writing did not begin until her teenage years.

Schwab’s upbringing was marked by a deep connection to stories, especially within the fantasy genre. Books by authors such as J.K. Rowling, Philip Pullman, and Neil Gaiman were formative influences. Schwab has spoken in interviews about being drawn to the darker, more complicated aspects of these stories, which would later influence her own writing. Her fascination with the supernatural and the moral gray areas of characters can be traced back to her early reading experiences.

Though she was always an avid reader, Schwab initially planned to pursue a career in the sciences. However, her love for writing grew stronger during her time at Washington University in St. Louis, where she studied English literature and became increasingly involved in creative writing. It was here that she began to write more seriously, focusing on developing her craft and finding her voice as an author.

Schwab’s experiences growing up as a queer woman in the American South also deeply influenced her work. Her characters often explore themes of identity, belonging, and the struggle for self-expression, reflecting her own journey of self-discovery and empowerment. This personal connection to her stories has made her novels resonate with readers who appreciate complex characters grappling with identity, purpose, and moral dilemmas.

Early Writing Career and Breakthrough

Schwab's first published novel was The Near Witch (2011), a YA fantasy about a small town haunted by a centuries-old legend of a witch who may or may not exist. The novel did not achieve significant commercial success upon its release, but it showcased Schwab’s potential as a fantasy writer with a knack for atmospheric storytelling. The book would later gain more attention following Schwab’s rise to fame.

Her breakthrough came with the publication of Vicious (2013), the first novel in the Villains series. The novel marked Schwab’s entry into adult fiction and solidified her reputation as a writer who excels at crafting morally complex characters and dark, intricate worlds. Vicious follows two college friends, Victor Vale and Eli Ever, who discover how to give themselves extraordinary abilities through near-death experiences. What begins as a scientific experiment quickly spirals into a brutal rivalry as Victor and Eli become enemies, each believing they are justified in their pursuit of power and vengeance.

Vicious was praised for its dark, compelling characters and its exploration of the fine line between heroism and villainy. It introduced many readers to Schwab’s unique style, which often features morally ambiguous protagonists, non-linear storytelling, and an examination of power dynamics. The success of Vicious positioned Schwab as a rising star in the fantasy genre, leading to further opportunities to expand her literary career.

The Shades of Magic Trilogy: A Defining Work

If Vicious marked Schwab’s emergence as a notable author, the Shades of Magic trilogy solidified her place as one of the most influential voices in contemporary fantasy. The trilogy, beginning with A Darker Shade of Magic (2015), became an international sensation and showcased Schwab’s ability to craft expansive worlds filled with magic, danger, and unforgettable characters.

The Shades of Magic series is set in a universe where four parallel Londons exist, each with varying levels of magic: Grey London, a mundane world without magic; Red London, where magic is harmonious and revered; White London, a world of ruthless magic users; and Black London, a sealed-off world consumed by dark magic. The story follows Kell, one of the last Antari, a rare type of magician who can travel between the Londons, and Lila Bard, a bold, street-smart thief from Grey London with dreams of becoming a pirate.

The series explores themes of power, loyalty, and freedom, with Kell and Lila at the heart of a struggle between the different Londons. Schwab’s world-building in the trilogy is intricate and immersive, offering readers a vivid and dynamic setting filled with political intrigue, magical duels, and a richly developed cast of characters.

A Darker Shade of Magic (2015): The first book introduces readers to Kell and Lila, as well as the parallel Londons. As Kell and Lila become unlikely allies, they uncover a dangerous conspiracy involving forbidden magic that threatens all the worlds.
A Gathering of Shadows (2016): The second book expands the world, introducing a magical competition called the Element Games, while deepening the relationships between characters. Kell and Lila face personal struggles with their identities and powers as the threat of White London looms.
A Conjuring of Light (2017): The final book in the trilogy brings the epic battle for the survival of the Londons to a thrilling conclusion. Schwab weaves together threads of friendship, sacrifice, and the cost of power as Kell, Lila, and their allies confront the darkest magic of all.

The Shades of Magic trilogy received widespread acclaim for its inventive world-building, fast-paced action, and emotionally resonant character arcs. The series cemented Schwab’s reputation as a master of fantasy fiction, and its popularity led to talks of film and television adaptations, as well as spin-off novels that Schwab has planned to further explore the world she created.

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue: A Masterpiece of Loneliness and Immortality

Schwab reached new heights of literary acclaim with the release of The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue in 2020. This novel, which Schwab had been working on for nearly a decade, is arguably her most ambitious and personal work to date. It tells the story of Adeline "Addie" LaRue, a young woman in 18th-century France who makes a Faustian bargain to live forever, but with a curse—she will be forgotten by everyone she meets.

Addie LaRue explores themes of memory, identity, and the human desire for meaning. Over the course of 300 years, Addie lives a life of loneliness, unable to form lasting connections as she drifts through history, until she meets a young man in New York City in 2014 who remembers her. The novel is a meditation on what it means to live a life that matters and the price one is willing to pay for freedom.

With its sweeping narrative and introspective character study, The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue became a critical and commercial success. The novel struck a chord with readers and critics alike, praised for its poetic prose, emotional depth, and existential themes. It was named one of the best books of 2020 by multiple publications and solidified Schwab as a literary powerhouse.

Themes and Writing Style

V.E. Schwab’s writing is marked by her ability to balance intricate world-building with deep, emotionally resonant character development. Her work often blurs the line between good and evil, featuring morally ambiguous characters who grapple with power, identity, and the consequences of their choices.

Key themes in Schwab’s work include:

Identity: Schwab’s characters frequently struggle with understanding who they are and what they want, whether it’s Kell’s search for belonging in Shades of Magic or Addie LaRue’s quest for meaning in a life where she cannot leave a mark.
Power: Many of Schwab’s stories explore the dynamics of power—who holds it, how it’s used, and the sacrifices made to obtain or maintain it. This theme is central to both Vicious and Shades of Magic.
Freedom and Agency: Her protagonists are often individuals fighting for control over their own lives. Lila Bard seeks the freedom to live her life on her own terms, while Addie LaRue fights to live a life that is not dictated by the whims of others.

Schwab’s prose is lyrical yet accessible, characterized by a balance between elegant descriptions and sharp, direct dialogue. Her storytelling often features non-linear narratives and multiple perspectives, allowing readers to see events from different angles and understand the complexities of her characters’ motivations.

Best Works and Legacy

V.E. Schwab’s most acclaimed works include:

Vicious (2013): A dark, compelling exploration of power, friendship, and revenge in the world of superhuman abilities.
Shades of Magic Trilogy (2015–2017): A richly imagined fantasy series set in parallel Londons, featuring a blend of political intrigue, magical duels, and complex characters.
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue (2020): A haunting and introspective novel about immortality, loneliness, and the human desire to be remembered.

Conclusion

V.E. Schwab has established herself as a leading voice in modern fantasy, known for her intricate world-building, complex characters, and exploration of moral ambiguity. With her ability to seamlessly blend the fantastical and the deeply human, Schwab has garnered a devoted following of readers who appreciate her unique storytelling and her fearless approach to dark, complex themes.

Her work continues to resonate with audiences around the world, solidifying her legacy as one of the most innovative and influential authors of her generation.

Top books to read in 2025 | 16 Books You Need to Read at Least Once in Your Life