Best 12 Books Reviewed: 48 Laws of Power List 2025

Explore the strategic mastery of Robert Greene. The 48 laws of power list is essential for understanding influence and control.

Mastery coverThe Art of War coverThe Art of Worldly Wisdom cover

The ’48 laws of power list’ has captivated minds and sparked a quest for knowledge on mastering influence and strategy. We embarked on this journey to bring you the 12 best books inspired by these principles. Each one offers unique insights, from timeless strategies to fresh, thought-provoking perspectives. We picked these books based on their depth, practicality, and ability to entertain while enlightening. So, grab a comfy chair and get ready to uncover the secrets of power and persuasion with our handpicked selection.

On this list:

12 Mastery by Robert Greene

Mastery cover

  • Genre: Self-help
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2012

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Greene strikes again. We learn not just the laws of power, but how to master them.

11 The Art of War by Sun Tzu

The Art of War cover

  • Genre: Military Strategy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, Audiobook
  • Year released: 5th century BC

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A classic! Sun Tzu shows us ancient strategy mixed with wisdom. Perfect for power seekers.

10 The Art of Worldly Wisdom by Baltasar Gracián

The Art of Worldly Wisdom cover

  • Genre: Philosophy, Self-help
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle
  • Year released: 1647
  • Pages: 176

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We love this book because it’s like a wise friend’s whispers, helping you navigate life’s tricky waters with wit and wisdom. It’s got more game than a marathon Monopoly session!

9 Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert B. Cialdini

Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion cover

  • Genre: Psychology
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1984

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Cialdini teaches us why we say ‘yes’. If you’re selling or negotiating, this is golden!

8 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene

48 Laws of Power cover

  • Genre: Self-help
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1998

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The original and still the beacon for power hunters. Greene’s rules will leave you on top.

7 The Book of Five Rings by Miyamoto Musashi

The Book of Five Rings cover

  • Genre: Strategy, Philosophy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle
  • Year released: 1645
  • Pages: 160

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We recommend ‘The Book of Five Rings’ because it explores strategy and power insights used by the legendary samurai Miyamoto Musashi. It’s a great practical guide on mastering strategy and decision-making, similar to ‘The 33 Strategies of War’, but with a unique historical and martial arts perspective.

6 The Laws of Human Nature by Robert Greene

The Laws of Human Nature cover

  • Genre: Self-help
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2018

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Also by Greene, this book focuses on understanding people. Handy for anyone dealing with humans.

5 Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman

Thinking, Fast and Slow cover

  • Genre: Psychology
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2011

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Kahneman takes us through how we think. A bit more brainy, but definitely rewarding.

4 How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

How to Win Friends and Influence People cover

  • Genre: Self-help
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1936

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Oldie but goodie. Carnegie gives us timeless tactics for making people like you. It works!

3 The Power by Rhonda Byrne

The Power cover

  • Genre: Self-help
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2010

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This book takes the concept of power and puts it in a new age wrapper. It’s about positivity and mind over matter.

2 The Art of Seduction by Robert Greene

The Art of Seduction cover

  • Genre: Self-help
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2001

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Greene yet again! This time about seduction. He shows how to charm and allure. Steamy but powerful.

1 Ego is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday

Ego is the Enemy cover

  • Genre: Self-Help, Business
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2016
  • Pages: 256

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While not directly on the 48 laws of power list, this book explores the dangers of ego in achieving success and power, offering insight into overcoming obstacles.

Steve Peterson Cartoonified
Steve Peterson

Hi there! I'm Steve Peterson, a passionate reading enthusiast who loves nothing more than getting lost in a good book. My love for literature spans across genres, from thrilling mysteries and gripping fantasy to thought-provoking non-fiction.

I hope my reviews help you find the perfect next book to dive into!