5 Best Robert Greene Books (2023)

Greene is an American writer born in 1959. He was raised in Los Angeles, and attended the University of California, Berkeley but ended up getting his degree in classical studies from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. According to Greene, he was obsessed with anything related to Ancient Greece.

Long Journey

However, after he left college, life didn’t go smoothly and as according to plan. The California author didn’t keep score but claims he must have had about 80 jobs before he started publishing books. His positions were varied too. He’s worked as a translator, a screen-writer, a magazine editor, and even as a construction worker.

Best Robert Greene Books

His big break came in Italy. He was working as a writer for Fabrica in the South European country when he met book packager Joost Elffers. Greene pitched his idea for a book to Elffers – his later international best-seller, The 48 Laws of Power – and Elffers was intrigued by the idea and took him up on it.

His enormous success in the mid-nineties has carried on to today. If you are wondering how many books Greene has written, he is currently the author of six books in total. Please note that we haven’t made this list of Greene’s books in order, but the order is random. Without further ado, let’s now find out what the best Robert Greene books are.

The 48 Laws of Power

Empirical inspiration.

The inspiration for The 48 Laws of Power, which is one of Robert Greene’s books ranked as the best-selling, comes from the empirical knowledge he amassed in the years after college, where he had to scrapple to make a living. Obviously, his experience concentrated mostly on life from the receiving end of the Laws of Power, not from the throne of the master wielding it. Perhaps that’s why he has such a refreshing and honest take on them. It is also one of Greene’s best-rated books.

Becoming Powerful

Greene’s inspiration for the book came from History’s great men – rulers, thinkers, and military men alike – which Greene believed shared many of the traits that bind together the powerful elite of our times.

He then synthesized the pearls of wisdom these ruthless men – and women, they played a role too – of today and yesterday in an easy to follow, 48-chapter book. Greene’s Laws are meant to propel you to become powerful yourself, to help you stand out, and not get cheated and have the wool pulled over your eyes. It is one of the most famous Greene books on our Greene book list.

Cunning and Ruthless

It has been widely criticized as amoral and “evil” because Laws such as Never outshine the Master or Never put too much trust in Friends will already let you know the path this book will take you down: it’s cunning and ruthless because the aim here is power, not making friends. Plus, Greene was inspired by Machiavelli, which speaks volumes by itself.

Interesting Fact

Fun fact: this book is revered by many rappers and moguls, and is, apparently, one of the most favorite Robert Greene books in prison libraries in the United States of America! Greene believes anyone can be rich and powerful, you just need to know the rules. And The 48 Laws of Power has a blueprint.

The Art of Seduction

Hand in hand.

The Art of Seduction was the second book Greene published, in 2001. It flows directly out of the insights he delivered and delved into in the first of this best Greene book series, his 48 laws. Power and seduction do walk hand in hand, after all.

Ultimate Power

Because, what is seduction, anyway? “Seduction is the ultimate form of power. Those who give into it do so willingly and happily. There is rarely any resentment on their part; they forgive you any kind of manipulation because you have brought them pleasure, a rare commodity in the world.” The Art of Seduction is not a treaty on how to help you get lucky, it’s a systematic approach to charming the pants off of anyone and one of Greene’s most popular books.

Nine Archetypes

This is one of Robert Greene’s best books that identifies nine “seducer” archetypes that anyone may fit into, whether it be a Rake, a Dandy, or a Charmer. Each archetype has its own distinctive way of using its attributes to its advantage and has a different strategy in order to win over the object of their desire. In addition, Greene also profiles 18 types of “victims”, or the psychological profile of those that fall prey to the charms of the seducer.

Psychological Intricacies

Definitely, an enlightening read if you are interested in the psychological intricacies of attraction and that elusive je ne sais quoi that brings two people together, as it systematizes the complex dance that goes on between two humans when they are mating, even if they are unaware that that is what they are doing.

Also, it is the best Robert Greene book to start with if you love historical facts and stories from the past – particularly of the courtship genre – because Greene has included many anecdotes to underline his findings that are sure to keep you entertained! Who doesn’t like a little gossip?

The 33 Strategies of War

Remember Pat Benatar’s classic, “Love is a Battlefield”? Well, prepare for DJ Greene’s remix: Life is a battlefield. The premise of Greene’s next book in our Robert Greene book review 33 Strategies takes centuries of military tactics and intelligence and applies them to every-day life.

Take on Life

How is life like war though, you might ask? (Parents of small children may not wonder) Why do I need offense and defense strategies for the simple stuff I do from Monday to Sunday?

In case you haven’t been Keeping Up With Greene, his take on life is somewhat merciless and ruthless, and in his Hobbesian conception of the world, it may come as no surprise that this American author suggests turning to warfare psychology to better manage yourself and your surroundings.

War With Yourself

Here’s the cherry on top though: you’re not just at war with the world, you’re at war with yourself! The first part of the book is entirely dedicated to “Self-Directed Warfare”, or how to beat yourself. It’s a rather more bellicose path to self-growth than the one followed by traditional self-help books. However, if you’re a natural fighter and like to live life with your metaphorical guns a’ blazing, this could be an eye-opener and one of Greene’s must-reads books.

As usual, Greene turns to battle eminences of the past, so you’ll be introduced to the genius of the likes of Napoleon, Margaret Thatcher, Hannibal, and many more.

Mastery is the synthesis of Robert Greene’s top books for two reasons: it was his fifth book, which he got to work on after publishing The 50th Law, and it is also a compendium and the result of all the research he put into his previous four books.

It was published in November 2012, and contains the secret to great success. Greene discovered, after combing through pages and pages of information on the lives of the Greats of History, that their paths to success shared some commonalities.

In the making of this work, the author turned his attention to present-day masters who are still alive and interviewed them to get them to spill the beans. These masters include tech guru Paul Graham and Temple Grandin, animal-rights activist.

Search for Power

Greene argues that we are all searching for power. So, we had better get clear on what is holding us back, because it is an achievable goal for most of us. Mastery is one of Robert Greene’s best-selling books that will help you unlock your full potential, and pave the way to you becoming a master in your own right and field by overcoming the obstacles in the way. 

The Laws of Human Nature

Spot the flaws.

By now we have established that Greene likes to write about Laws. Especially because he also wrote The 50th Law with rapper 50-cent which is one of the best books by Robert Greene! And now he’s back with a compendium on human nature – how to spot the flaws in others and in yourself and flip them to help you. It is one of the new Greene books on our list published in 2018.

Machiavellian Grimness

The New York Times best-seller author softens his famous/notorious (depends on your view) Machiavellian grimness. It’s not all about defeating the enemy anymore, or of taking advantage of other’s weaknesses to scale to the heights of power.

It’s about digging deep, seeing what’s really behind people’s motivations, peeking behind the mask most of us live behind. We even wear the mask when we’re looking in the mirror, which is why self-exploration is a must.

Human Psyche

Yes, the Laws of Human Nature isn’t always a breezy, light, and lofty read; but neither is its subject now, is it? It does contain insights into the human psyche, which will inevitably help the readers tackle everyday issues, whether it be at work, at home, in personal relationships, etc.

Knowing the needs and motivations of others is the first step to negotiating, which in turn, is the first step to getting what you want in life. Read this Robert Greene’s best book and you’ll be that much closer.

Penchant for Power

Books written by Greene are recommended for readers that have a penchant for power dynamics. For aspiring rappers, Greene may also be your go-to writer if you want to follow in the footsteps of famous hip-hop and rap artists; they seem to think they have a thing or two to learn from Greene. We covered all books by Robert Greene from our list, but if you are looking for even more Greene book recommendations, make sure to check out The 50th Law. At this point, it is hard to talk about Greene’s upcoming book since he suffered a stroke in 2018 that has left him partially disabled.

robert greene best books

Michael Englert

Michael is a graduate of cultural studies and history. He enjoys a good bottle of wine and (surprise, surprise) reading. As a small-town librarian, he is currently relishing the silence and peaceful atmosphere that is prevailing.

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BEST Robert Greene Books & Quotes of All Time

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Looking for the best Robert Greene books and quotes of all time?

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Who Is Robert Greene?

Robert Greene (born May 14, 1959) is an American author of books on strategy, power, and seduction, including international best-sellers like The 48 Laws of Power and Mastery . Before becoming an author, Greene estimates that he worked 80 jobs, including as a construction worker, translator, magazine editor, and Hollywood movie writer.

Learn more about Robert Greene

The Best Robert Greene Books of All Time

Why these best Robert Greene books and not others? To stay objective, I rank all my book recommendations by a combination of what’s most loved (Goodreads rating), what’s most popular (Goodreads review count) and what’s proven timlessly relevant (first publication date).

This isn’t a whimsical list . It’s a data-driven, crowdsourced collection of the best Robert Greene books ever published as decided by book lovers like you.

And if you think something's missing?  I LOVE book recommendations so if there are any other books by Robert Greene that you think deserve mentioning, email me and I’ll be sure to include them in the next round of updates.

Until then, here are the best Robert Greene books of all time...

Best Robert Greene Books: The 48 Laws of Power

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Best Robert Greene Quotes

Here are some of the best Robert Greene of all time...

"When you show yourself to the world and display your talents, you naturally stir all kinds of resentment, envy, and other manifestations of insecurity... you cannot spend your life worrying about the petty feelings of others"

"When you are trying to impress people with words, the more you say, the more common you appear, and the less in control. Even if you are saying something banal, it will seem original if you make it vague, open-ended, and sphinxlike. Powerful people impress and intimidate by saying less. The more you say, the more likely you are to say something foolish."

"If you are unsure of a course of action, do not attempt it. Your doubts and hesitations will infect your execution. Timidity is dangerous: Better to enter with boldness. Any mistakes you commit through audacity are easily corrected with more audacity. Everyone admires the bold; no one honors the timid."

"Keep your friends for friendship, but work with the skilled and competent"

"Do not leave your reputation to chance or gossip; it is your life's artwork, and you must craft it, hone it, and display it with the care of an artist."

"Appearing better than others is always dangerous, but most dangerous of all is to appear to have no faults or weaknesses. Envy creates silent enemies. It is smart to occasionally display defects, and admit to harmless vices, in order to deflect envy and appear more human and approachable. Only gods and the dead can seem perfect with impunity."

"Do not accept the roles that society foists on you. Re-create yourself by forging a new identity, one that commands attention and never bores the audience. Be the master of your own image rather than letting others define if for you. Incorporate dramatic devices into your public gestures and actions – your power will be enhanced and your character will seem larger than life."

"Never assume that the person you are dealing with is weaker or less important than you are. Some people are slow to take offense, which may make you misjudge the thickness of their skin, and fail to worry about insulting them. But should you offend their honor and their pride, they will overwhelm you with a violence that seems sudden and extreme given their slowness to anger. If you want to turn people down, it is best to do so politely and respectfully, even if you feel their request is impudent or their offer ridiculous."

"Many a serious thinker has been produced in prisons, where we have nothing to do but think."

"The human tongue is a beast that few can master. It strains constantly to break out of its cage, and if it is not tamed, it will tun wild and cause you grief."

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8 Most Engaging Robert Greene Books (Ranked) For 2023

Are you looking to improve the quality of your life in general? If yes, Robert Greene books are for you!

Life, in general, comprises many aspects that many of us know but cannot accurately articulate. But books are one way to help us. We all need vital qualities and understanding to help ourselves live to the best of our potential and with others.

Who is author Robert Greene?

Robert Greene is an American author and speaker known for his books on strategy, leadership and power.

Greene was born in Los Angeles, California on May 14th, 1959. He attended the University of California, Berkeley where he studied history before dropping out to pursue a career in writing. Greene began his career as a journalist and screenwriter in Hollywood. He has also worked as a editor at Esquire magazine and as a freelance writer for Vibe and Rolling Stone magazines.

In 1998, Greene published his first book, The 48 Laws of Power. The book was an instant bestseller and has sold over 1.2 million copies worldwide.

Robert Green Links

I got a more profound understanding of the psychology of how we live and act since I started reading Robert Greene books . I have curated a list of the author’s must-reads books below.

The list features books with insights on leadership, relationships, power, performing/winning, understanding motivation, and intention. Without further ado, let’s indulge.

What Are The Must Read Robert Greene Books?

(check also robert greene's upcoming books ).

robert greene best books

01 The 48 Laws of Power (1998)

The 48 Laws of Power broadened my mind to determine what power is and what it is about, most importantly, how it can be used against us daily. This book is not about the principles or laws that people use to gain power for manipulation. It is a book that will help you discover being aware of how people can use manipulative tactics or games to gain control over you.

As a child, you may have been taught that everyone is a lovely person and that you need to treat others as you would like to be treated. But the harsh reality is that the world is ready and waiting to use you for its gains and even hurt you.

The laws in this book will help you see that ignorance can lead you to be manipulated, taken advantage of, feel helpless, and miss out on opportunities and rewards you deserve.

I recommend this book if you want to become aware of identifying your predators, defending yourself, and gaining confidence to deal with others.

robert greene best books

02 Mastery (2012)

What did Charles Darwin do to become a renowned naturalist? What similar choices did Caesar Rodriguez, the last ace fighter pilot of the U.S Air Force, and Mozart make?

This book contains biographies of some of the most significant historical figures to give you clues on how to gain control over your life and destiny. It picks up from where The 48 Laws of Power left, blending psychological insight, historical anecdotes, and superb pointers/lessons by the world’s masters- Martha Graham, Temple Grandin, Buckminster Fuller, and Henry Ford.

Robert maintains that our minds already have the secret to mastery and that we are wired for supremacy and achievement.

Mastery will help you become less focused on achieving quick results and teach you to focus on spending time to do the necessary and gain a profound understanding of your craft. Robert has also weaved the challenges we face on the quest for experience and gives a thorough roadmap of what we must implement as we go through the phases.

robert greene best books

03 The Art of Seduction (2004)

If you really want to know someone, be keen on their actions, not words. Have you ever wondered why people act in specific ways? If so, this is your read.

What kind of seducer are you? Are you a siren, comedian, start, saint, charismatic, or cold coquette? Get to know from this book. Some of the gifts a seducer possesses are charm, the creation of illusions, and persuasion; that is how they also get to manipulate, mislead, and provide pleasure. This book discusses the psychology of seduction in different areas of life, not just intimacy, so that you can understand human behavior.

I love how it guides us into understanding human nature and Robert's insights into how we can protect ourselves. You will understand things differently based on the historical illustrations and references Robert has highlighted.

His language will invite you to look deeply at the dark recess of your unconscious state for you to explore your deepest shadow.

robert greene best books

04 The Laws of Human Nature (2019)

In this book, Robert continues his craft to turn to one of the essential subjects of life- understanding people’s motivations and drives, consciously and unconsciously.

We are generally social beings, and our lives are contingent on our relationships. The most important tool we can have is understanding why people do what they do. Without this understanding, our other talents and abilities can only take us so far. Robert has clearly and excellently brought that out in The Laws of Human Nature .

He draws his ideas and examples from legendary figures like Martin Luther King Jr, Queen Elizabeth I, and others.

Robert teaches us that detaching ourselves from our emotions and mastering self-control is how we can develop the empathy that creates insight, resist conformity to having a sense of purpose, and see behind the masks of others. All these pointers will be helpful for our relationships, at the workplace, and as we shape our world.

I recommend this book if you seek additional guidance toward success, self-defense, and self-improvement.

robert greene best books

05 The 33 Strategies of War (2007)

Every day we are constantly at war with ourselves and those around us. It might not be the literal war of battle scars and shedding blood, but the war we are in causes us to feel profound emotions.

This book will guide you into understanding the psychology of starting or being involved in the wars in our businesses, at home, in relationships, when handling negotiations, or dealing with difficult people. It will help you identify the strategies used against you to turn things around in your favor.

The 33 Strategies of War has insights into navigating the tough times we encounter. You will appreciate how Robert has used research and military principles to compile his ideas and to provide actionable steps for immediate life application. This book is a handy tool to help you understand the social game with historical examples, samurai sworders, and movie moguls you will love.

robert greene best books

06 The 50th Law (2013)

In The 50th Law , Robert Greene joins forces with Curtis Jackson- 50 Cent. The book gives insights into what appears to be like a “bible” for gaining success in life. As they say, there is only one principle, and it is simple; Fear Nothing.

You might know 50 Cent from his music, but in this book, he has given inspirational stories about his life in the streets and being in boardrooms. You will discover how he rose to fame after releasing the album ‘ Get Rich or Die Tryin’ . The book also contains examples of other people who have beat adversity after understanding and using the 50th Law in their lives.

I consider this book a perfect inspiration if you are an entrepreneur or interested in 50 Cent’s life. It echoes the message that we can start small with what we have or a good at and propel ourselves to creating something excellent and remarkable for ourselves and others. However small, we must defend our power.

robert greene best books

07 Interviews with the Masters (2013)

This book is a companion to Robert’s book Mastery . Robert details educational interviews to reveal the participants' best insights and paths to greatness. They all talk about the strategies they used to learn and think and how they put all that together to come up with creations.

You will learn about Paul Graham's hacker mentality to develop a billion-dollar portfolio and a programming language, how Santiago Calatrava fused architecture, art, and engineering to come up with revolutionary structures, and Yoky Matsuoka’s “neurorobotics” creation.

You also get insights into how Daniel Everett resolved the Piraha language mystery, Cesar Rodriguez’s journey to becoming the “Last American Ace,” how Temple Grandin overcame autism and became an animal science leader, VS Ramachandran’s discoveries for neurological syndromes, and Teresita Fernandez’s alchemy fascination that birthed her artistic side.

The transcripts in this book bring out the personalities of these masters, and you will also appreciate Robert’s excellent interviewing technique and ability to create an engaging compilation. This book is packed with wisdom and inspiration and is highly informative.

(free on Amazon)

robert greene best books

08 The Daily Laws (2021)

The Daily Laws is a daily devotional to guide you towards seizing your destiny. The book has insights from some of Robert’s books on this list, but he has also featured new ideas. Each page in this book is excellently refined and packed with concise wisdom. I love that it features some of the most celebrated days on the calendar.

The lessons are easy to digest, and you will not have to work so hard to absorb each one. Alongside every daily law is a prescription that you cannot ignore as you live and fight the battles of life.

Robert centers every month around a primary theme. You will find themes on persuasion, seduction, adversity, leadership, creativity, psychology, meditation, mastery, self-control, toxicity, and human nature.

I consider this the epitome of what Robert’s books are about yet. You will reward yourself by reading and rereading this book daily.

Final Thoughts on Robert Greene Books

Robert Greene is simply a master of his craft. The way he addresses different issues that are part of life is commendable. It is something that takes great skill and talent, and he wins.  If you are unfamiliar with his works, it is time you did with the titles in this list.

If you like Robert Greene books, check also some of the best leadership books .

Joel Stafford

My profession is online marketing and development (10+ years experience), check my latest mobile app called Upcoming . But my real passion is reading books both fiction and non-fiction. I have several favorite authors like James Redfield or Daniel Keyes . If I read a book I always want to find the best part of it, every book has it's unique value.

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Robert Greene Books Cover

Most people think of Robert Greene as some sort of modern-day Machiavelli , an evil prince sitting in his castle, laughing maniacally as he sells more and more books to people telling them how they can take advantage of others. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Greene is a zen practitioner. Watch one interview with him , and you’ll see he’s actually a calm, reserved, all-around nice guy who just happens to love history and research. If you’re looking for the results of that work, a full list of Robert Greene books, this is the right place!

Greene was born in LA in 1959 and, after attaining a BA in classical studies, held over 60 different jobs (!) before becoming an author, including being a translator, editor, construction worker, and Hollywood screenwriter. In 1995, he pitched a book packager an idea about power while working at an art school in Italy, and that idea eventually became The 48 Laws of Power , his breakout success.

Greene’s books deal with topics like power, strategy, psychology, business, seduction, and relationships. Generally, they’re all about how to understand and work with the human mind, whether it’s our own or that of others. They have sold millions of copies and are often quoted by celebrities, especially musicians and rappers, like 50 Cent, Jay-Z, or even Michael Jackson. 

So far, we’ve summarized 4 of Greene’s 7 books as part of our 1,000+ summary catalog here on Four Minute Books, and today, we’ll compile them all for you  in order of both publication and popularity. We’ve even included a section recommending in which order you should read Robert Greene’s books.

You can easily navigate this list by clicking on whichever section interests you the most in the below table of contents. For each book, we’ll share an image of the cover, a 1-sentence-summary, and our favorite quote. We’ll also highlight the most important takeaways and why you might want to read the book yourself.

If you want to dive deeper into any book, click the “Learn More” or “Read on Four Minute Books” button or use one of our Amazon affiliate links to buy a copy. Alright, let’s get into the full catalog of Robert Greene books!

Table of Contents

All Robert Greene Books (in Chronological Order)

1. the 48 laws of power (1998), 2. the art of seduction (2001), 3. the 33 strategies of war (2006), 4. the 50th law (2009), 5. mastery (2012), 6. the laws of human nature (2018), 7. the daily laws (2021), robert greene books by popularity, in what order should you read robert greene’s books, other book lists by author, other book lists by topic.

Robert Greene Books #1 : The 48 Laws of Power (1998)

Favorite Quote

“Powerful people impress and intimidate by saying less. The more you say, the more likely you are to say something foolish.” — Robert Greene

The Book in One Sentence

The 48 Laws of Power draws on many of history’s most famous power quarrels to show you what power looks like, how you can get it, what to do to defend yourself against the power of others, and, most importantly, how to use it well and keep it.

Why should you read it?

Co-authored with book packager Joost Elffers, this is Greene’s seminal work. Each law comes with a chapter and a story, many including famous people from history, thus really making the laws come to life. If you struggle with navigating society, if you get rejected a lot and feel like doors keep closing in your face, read this book. It will help you better understand humans. It will also show you how to get things done by getting others to cooperate with you. Literally an em powering book.

Key Takeaways

If you want to learn more, you can read our free four-minute summary or get a copy for yourself.

“When our emotions are engaged, we often have trouble seeing things as they are.” — Robert Greene

The Art of Seduction is a template for persuading anyone, whether it’s a business contact, a political adversary, or a romantic partner, to act in your best interest.

This isn’t just a book for bros looking for dating advice. It’s a compelling manual on getting others to see eye-to-eye with you. If you’re fighting for a good cause, why wouldn’t you try to convince as many other people as you can to join in? Thanks to the nine patterns and character types Greene outlines, this book will also make it easier for you to identify how you best convince others. If you’ve recently failed to get what you want in a big way, try reading this book as a first step to learning from that failure.

Robert Greene Books #3: The 33 Strategies of War (2006)

“Grand strategy is the art of looking beyond the present battle and calculating ahead. Focus on your ultimate goal and plot to reach it.” — Robert Greene

The 33 Strategies of War outlines principles and tactics one can use in life, business, and, yes, actual war, to overcome their enemies and achieve their goals.

If your job, hobby, or some other aspect of your life feels like a struggle, this book might help. In 33 strategies across five sections, from self-directed to organizational, defensive, offensive, and unconventional warfare, you’ll learn from countless historic examples what to do in which situation. The book deals both with inner and outer enemies, so it is valuable both as a self-help manual as well as a tool to better navigate society and its many demands.

If you want to learn more, you can click below or get a copy for yourself.

Robert Greene Books #4: The 50th Law (2009)

“Your fears are a kind of prison that confines you within a limited range of action. The less you fear, the more power you will have and the more fully you will live.” — Robert Greene

The 50th Law is a semi-autobiographical book tracing 50 Cent’s early days as a hustler and musician through ten factors of fearlessness, supplementing each of 50 Cent’s guidelines with lessons, anecdotes, and examples from historical figures like Sun Tzu, Abraham Lincoln, James Baldwin, and many others.

Co-authored with Curtis Jackson aka rapper 50 Cent, this book will inspire you to break the mold and chart your own path in life by recounting 50 Cent’s story. In addition, it’ll teach you how to be fearless via ten factors 50 considered particularly important to his meteoric ascent to hip-hop fame. If you’re trying to do something big, especially in the arts, this book is for you.

Robert Greene Books #5: Mastery (2012)

“Become who you are by learning who you are.” — Robert Greene

Mastery debunks the myth of talent and shows you there are proven steps you can take to achieve mastery in a discipline of your own choosing, by analyzing the paths of some of history’s most famous masters, such as Einstein, Darwin, and Da Vinci.

This might be Greene’s best book. It uses the same kind of writing and research but takes a less power-focused approach. It’s not about people vs. people, it’s about becoming your best self. This book will help you find your calling, be brutally honest about what it’ll take to become a master, find the right mentors, and then embrace your originality until you succeed.

“Rationality is the ability to counteract emotional effects, to think instead of react. It does not come naturally; it is a power we must cultivate, but in doing so we realize our greatest potential.” — Robert Greene

The Laws of Human Nature  helps you understand why people do what they do and how you can use both your own psychological flaws and those of others to your advantage at work, in relationships, and in life.

Rather than trying to achieve a particular outcome, like seducing others or accumulating power, this book is a culmination and curation of everything Greene has learned over more than 20 years of research into human behavior. In 18 laws, you’ll learn how to see behind the masks people wear, why opinions are so hard to let go of, what it takes to not sabotage your own efforts, and a lot more. A great, broad read and some of Greene’s finest work.

Robert Greene Books #7: The Daily Laws (2021)

“Embrace your strangeness. Identify what makes you different. Fuse those things together and become an anomaly.” —   Robert Greene

The Daily Laws   is a collection of 365 short laws grouped into 12 themes, serving as daily reminders for you to reconnect to reality, reverse bad behaviors, and seize your destiny.

If you want an easy entry into Greene’s work or simply struggle to read a lot on the regular, this is the perfect book for you. Each daily entry is short and takes no more than a minute or so to read. You’ll get to know yourself better while simultaneously improving how you relate to and work with others. If you like The Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday, you’ll love this book.

Want to know which Robert Greene books are the most popular? Here’s a short reorder of the list based on the total number of Amazon ratings, ranked from most to least.

As you might expect, Greene’s first, smash-hit book, The 48 Laws of Power , remains his most popular. With over two million copies sold of that one alone, many others of his titles have also become New York Times and other bestsellers. Fun-fact: The book is also popular with prison inmates, so much so that some prisons in the US have actually banned it.

Which of Robert Greene’s books should you read first? If you ask us, here’s the order in which reading his books makes the most logical sense based on their topics:

If you’re only interested in a specific topic or idea, you can start with whichever one of Greene’s books appeals to you the most. Whatever you choose, we’re confident you’ll learn something new and, when in doubt, start with his most popular work first!

Robert Greene is one of the most celebrated business and self-help authors in pop culture today. Full of examples from both history and the recent past, there’s always a new story to find in his work, and he’s a master of understanding power dynamics. We hope this list will help you pick a book and start decoding human behavior!

Looking for more books by the world’s most celebrated authors? Here are all of the book lists by the author we’ve curated for you:

Looking for more of the best books on various topics? Here are all the book lists by topic we’ve made for you so far:

Last Updated on December 14, 2022

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Cocktail of Power, Mastery and Seduction by Robert Greene

In this article, I will reveal the cocktail of power, mastery, and seduction that propelled these 5 books by Robert Greene into the top rankings.

Agostinho Fernandes

Are you looking for great book recommendations?

Trying to find something inspirational to kickstart your creative and entrepreneurial process? Look no further, as we have exactly what you need! We’ll be taking a look at the best books by Robert Greene – an expert on power, persuasion, and human nature. He has three amazingly successful titles - The 48 Laws of Power; Mastery; and The 33 Strategies of War. Get ready to dive in, learn more about these must-read titles, get insights from each one of them and sharpen your knowledge!

How We Choose These Best Books for You

It can be hard to know which books are worth reading, and even harder to find time to read them.

We all know that reading is important, but it's hard to make time for it when there are so many other things vying for our attention.

Our list of the Robert Greene 5 Best Books will help you find the right book for you and show you how reading can improve your life.

1. The Laws of Human Nature by Robert Greene

robert greene best books

#1 New York Times Bestselling Author

Learn how to detach yourself from your emotions, master self-control, develop empathy that leads to insight, and resist conformity. 

What Is This Book About

Discover the secrets of success, self-improvement, and self-defense with Robert Greene’s The Laws of Human Nature. This revolutionary book draws on the ideas and examples of great leaders such as Pericles, Queen Elizabeth I, and Martin Luther King Jr to show you how to tap into deeper levels of understanding and steer your life in a positive direction. Learn how to detach yourself from your emotions, master self-control, develop empathy that leads to insight, and resist conformity. With this comprehensive guide, discover how to look beyond people’s masks and find solutions to challenging situations in all areas of your life - at work, at home, and beyond. Treat yourself to a whole new level of personal growth with The Laws of Human Nature by Robert Greene.

Why You Will Love It

You will love this book because it provides an engaging read and fantastic insights on how to effectively interact with our fellow human beings. You can find profound information similar to body language and vivid descriptions of historical figures, as well as hope-filled advice that encourages freedom and creativity. Robert Greene's The Laws of Human Nature is a must-read for everyone looking to navigate the complexities of social connections in a way that honors their own needs and the needs of their companions.

2. Mastery by Robert Greene

robert greene best books

#1 New York Times Bestseller

Robert Greene provides an in-depth exploration into the essential wisdom of power, with stories and anecdotes about renowned figures like Albert Einstein, Charles Darwin, and Leonardo da Vince to emphasize key concepts.

Mastery by Robert Greene is a comprehensive guide to unlocking greatness. Drawing from years of research and interviews with some of today’s most accomplished individuals, this essential book offers a clear path for achieving excellence in any field.

Robert Greene provides an in-depth exploration into the essential wisdom of power, with stories and anecdotes about renowned figures like Albert Einstein, Charles Darwin, and Leonardo da Vince to emphasize key concepts. Through this text, readers can gain access to knowledge on becoming a master that has been used through the ages. Those who follow its advice are sure to unlock the greater potential within themselves.

With Mastery by Robert Greene, you will learn how to utilize discipline to craft a lasting legacy—the same methods that achieved such remarkable things among Scotland’s greatest abstract thinkers. Whether you want to become a master of the art, science, business, or another field entirely; this book contains the exact methods that anyone can use to achieve greatness. Take the first step today toward mastery!

Mastery by Robert Greene is a great read for anyone interested in becoming the best version of themselves. Not only does it cover a range of topics from philosophy to psychology, but it also features entertaining biographies from notable people throughout history. You'll learn essential details on how to achieve mastery in life and what it means to reach higher levels of achievement. You'll gain new perspectives on how you can fully develop your abilities to receive lasting results. Plus, you'll pick up invaluable lessons about self-discipline that come only with working hard and focusing on long-term positive change. If you are looking for an inspiring place to start your journey of greatness, then this is it!

3. The 33 Strategies of War by Robert Greene

robert greene best books

Best for Strategies

Filled with clear examples that are abundantly illustrated throughout the thirty-three chapters, you’ll be well-equipped with the knowledge and wisdom needed to come out on top in any situation.

Are you ready to take your game to the next level? The 33 Strategies of War by Robert Greene is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to master conflict and become victorious in life's battles. Spanning world civilizations, and synthesizing dozens of political, philosophical, and religious texts over thousands of years of violent conflict, this book provides a detailed perspective on the art of war. You'll learn strategies from many sources like everyone from Napoleon to Margaret Thatcher, Shaka the Zulu to Lord Nelson, Hannibal to Ulysses S. Grant, as well as movie moguls, Samurai swordsmen, and diplomats. Filled with clear examples that are abundantly illustrated throughout the thirty-three chapters, you’ll be well-equipped with the knowledge and wisdom needed to come out on top in any situation. Whether you’re trying to gain an advantage at work or defend against attackers in battle scenarios, The 33 Strategies of War by Robert Greene has all you need for success.

You will love The 33 Strategies of War by Robert Greene because it offers a unique blend of wisdom, strategy and insight. It provides an array of experiences, perspectives and knowledge that is pertinent to gaining the upper hand on virtually any front. You don't need any prior knowledge or specialized education - all you need is the book and its mantras! You'll learn everything from how to effectively defend yourself in a heated argument to waging warfare with less physicality and more psychological wiles, providing you with the means of achieving your goals while saving time and energy. In short, this book rocks! Try it - you have nothing to lose and only victory to gain.

4. The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene

robert greene best books

National Bestseller

This book provides comprehensive advice on how to use both ethical and unethical means of persuasion.

The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene is an absolute must-have for rising power players. Its pages are ripe with insight into the strategies and techniques of gaining and maintaining power. Drawing from a combination of wisdom, stories, and reflections from history’s greatest thinkers, this book provides comprehensive advice on how to use both ethical and unethical means of persuasion.

If you want to make your mark in any industry or position of influence, this book will be your guide on how to stay one step ahead no matter the circumstances. From utilizing political tactics such as understanding those around you and what makes them tick through leveraging silent authority with prestige-building activities; The 48 Laws of Power imparts the invaluable knowledge needed to acquire and keep control over any situation.

Whether your ambition is professional, spiritual, or personal development – The 48 Laws of Power can help you navigate the intricate intricacies between success and failure with indispensable insight into human behavior and its consequences.

You will love The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene because it expertly illustrates the complex nature of power in a clever two-color package. You can use the book to gain an understanding of how to play the game, whether it is for conquest, self-defense or simply to understand the principles involved. You will learn strategies and tactics on how to outwit enemies, develop successful relationships, and how expand your power whatever the situation. You won't find a better book on this subject.

5. The Art of Seduction by Robert Greene

robert greene best books

International Bestseller

The Art of Seduction will help you gain confidence in yourself and become empowered in your relationships. 

The Art of Seduction by Robert Greene is an essential guide to becoming the master of seduction. No matter what type of seducer you wish to be-from the Siren, Rake, or Saint—this book will provide you with the tools and strategies to achieve your goals. It offers a fascinating exploration into the subtle arts of flirtation, persuasion, manipulation, and charm. From learning how to recognize vulnerable people and situations to using timing and self-effacement to create illusions as a means of captivating your desire. The Art of Seduction will help you gain confidence in yourself and become empowered in your relationships. If you’re looking for the ultimate resource for honing your power through the art of seduction, this book is for you!

Robert Greene's The Art of Seduction is truly a treasure. Packed with one-of-a-kind insights and lessons, you'll learn not only how to be more successful in your pursuits in life, but also what it takes to make yourself irresistibly attractive to others. You'll find out not only how to get people to give into your desires, but also what kind of power structures exists among romantics and seducers. You'll come away with a much better understanding of relationships, as well as viable strategies for seduction that are grounded in timeless truths.

Robert Greene Best Books FAQs

You probably have a lot of questions about Robert Greene Best Books, and we want to make sure that you get the answers you need as quickly as possible.

We understand that buying a book can be a big decision, so we've compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about Greene's Best Books to help make things easier for you.

Hopefully, this page will answer any questions you have. Our list of the Robert Greene Best Books will help you find the right book for you and show you how reading can improve your life.

What is the best order to read Robert Greene's books?

The best order to read Robert Greene's books depends on your learning style and interests. Generally, however, it's recommended that you start with his classic titles such as The 48 Laws of Power and Mastery before moving on to more recent works like the New York Times bestsellers The Laws of Human Nature and The Laws of Life.

When deciding on a final order, consider which topics appeal to you the most - whether that be power dynamics, artistry & creativity, or sexuality & relationships - as this will help inform your decision. Within each book several chapters are exploring different themes; so depending on where your interests lie you may want to focus more attention on some rather than others.

For those starting maybe consider beginning with:

1) The 48 Laws of Power

3) The 33 Strategies Of War

4)The Art Of Seduction/The 50th Law With 50 Cent

Ultimately whatever order Robert Greene’s books are read in they will provide invaluable insights into developing strategy-based thinking patterns whilst also homing crucial life skills ready for eventual deployment if needed down the line when facing difficult situations.

Are 48 Laws of Power a must-read?

The 48 Laws of Power is an informative and popular book written by Robert Greene that discusses the power dynamics within human relationships. The laws in this book provide a thought-provoking insight into how power works and why certain people are successful while others fail to navigate through difficult situations.

At the core, this book teaches us how to develop our sense of self-mastery, which allows us to understand our weaknesses and strengths to be effective in all aspects of life. This book emphasizes the importance of honing one's observational skills, analyzing any given situation with clarity, playing off people's motivations for success, understanding other people's psychological agendas, and learning from history throughout history.

The foundational principles outlined in The 48 Laws of Power present readers with useful strategies from which they can learn and apply in their personal lives as well as professional development journeys. It provides insights into building good character traits such as integrity and discretion; understanding interpersonal relationships; developing communication skills; getting ahead without resorting to deceitful means; grasping opportunity when it arises; creating alliances when necessary; managing emotions under pressure or temptation; using charm instead of aggression if possible: plus much more!

What should I read after JD Robb?

After reading JD Robb's books, you may be looking for another great mystery novel to dive into. Here are some amazing picks that will have you turning the pages, unable to put the book down!

First up is The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown . This bestseller is one of the most popular choices when it comes to mystery novels. It follows symbologist Robert Langdon as he unlocks a series of codes and hidden messages related to Leonardo da Vinci’s artwork. Along with his cryptographer Sophie Neveu, Robert works against time to decipher clues to solve a murder and unravel an ancient conspiracy.

The next pick is Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn . This darkly funny thriller tells the story of Nick Dunne and his wife Amy who suddenly disappear on their wedding anniversary—leaving behind only puzzling clues as evidence. As Nick desperately searches for answers about his missing spouse, this gripping plot twist keeps readers guessing until the very end!

If you’re feeling adventurous and want a real challenge then try The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins —one of literature’s first detective novels which were published back in 1859! It begins with Walter Hartright sighting ‘a solitary figure, muffled from head-to-foot in a garment like a shroud’ near London during midnight hours—launching him into an original Victorian crime case that spans England and Italy over multiple generations.

Finally, let's move away from the suspenseful plot lines for something more lighthearted yet still mysterious: Agatha Christie’s Murder On The Orient Express takes passengers on an exotic journey aboard Europe’s famous locomotive line only to uncover murder onboard! Hercule Poirot must unravel this perplexing whodunit before time runs out!

Overall these thrilling stories offer something different compared with JD Robb but they all focus on interesting mysteries that will keep your attention till the very last page - enjoy reading them!

Is Mastery worth reading?

Mastery by Robert Greene is a must-read for anyone looking to reach peak success in their respective field. Through Greene's decades of research into renowned historical figures such as Charles Darwin and Henry Ford, he unlocks the essential tools for achieving mastery.

The book provides an incredible framework for those ready to take full control of their lives and claim consistent progress toward their goals. From building a personal philosophy to developing a creative vision, the lessons provided offer invaluable guidance on the path to mastery.

What is Ryan Holiday known for?

Ryan Holiday is an American author, marketer, and media strategist who has made a name for himself in the business world. He is best known for his creative marketing tactics and his ability to think outside of the box when it comes to coming up with innovative solutions.

Holiday has authored five books on various aspects of the business world.

If you've been looking for ways to gain power and gain a better understanding of the world around you, your search may have ended with Robert Greene's books. Reading Robert Greene's books is more than just entertainment. His books help us to discover the secrets of our own life and learn life lessons that can teach us how to understand human behavior better.

By following his daily laws, we gain a deeper knowledge of the power dynamics of interpersonal relationships and our self-development. Overall, it's easy to see why his books have become so popular over time; there's so much potential in opening up our minds and taking away something useful from reading them that it should be an act every avid reader should do.

Verified reviews on Amazon provide valuable information for customers who want to read Robert Greene books. By taking the time to read these reviews, we've made an informed decision about which book is right for you. With so many great options to choose from, there's no reason not to take advantage of this opportunity. Don't miss out on your chance to add one or more of these books to your collection today by clicking The Amazon affiliate links above!

Thanks for reading!

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What Order Should I Read the Robert Greene Books?

Robert Greene is an author who has garnered a lot of controversy for different reasons depending on the groups. His books deep diving topics like power, charisma, seduction, and leadership are either lauded or reviled – once again, based on who you talk to. Even the general look at the books varies within different demographic groups.

Some say the advice in contradictory, wrapped in stories that oviscape any actionable information, while others laud the books as the key to mastering their lives, their business, and their relationship with others to build the lives they want. Some yell charlatan, others yell genius, and these books were infamously banned from many prison libraries.

They are an impressive and in-depth read onto major topics that affect us in life whether we like it or not, and potentially hold the key to mastery over ourselves, and others, in building that dream life, business, and otherwise increase power and control in life. These are considered very powerful books by many, and for those who aren’t familiar with them, here is your introduction into reading Robert Greene books in the best order.

Let’s begin!

author robert greene

The “BIG” Robert Greene Books in Question

While Robert Greene has wrote many books worth reading, when it comes to the “core books” that are about mastery, seduction, power, etc, there are a small number that are considered the core of his teachings. When people want to know which Robert Greene books to read first, these 5 core books should be the ones that are focused on.

We’re not focusing on later works or books that play off the deep dive early books with “more digestible” versions or supplemental works later. When someone wants to get to the heart of what Robert Greene has to teach, it’s the core books that are being talked about. These are dense reads and I understand the instinct to read the abridged “concise” versions, and they are easier (still not easy) reads, but I do feel like someone wanting the full impact or meaning is going to miss out going that direction.

Those core Robert Greene books are:

These are the core books that are often considered the core of Robert Greene’s teachings. While some would argue whether or not The 18 Laws of Human Nature belong with the other four, they were clearly meant to be part of the canon and I believe from reading them they have that core value that make them a part of the group, even though it is admittedly even more high-minded or philosophical than usual compared to the others on the list.

Still, the people who argue this are definitely on the minority as most see all of Greene’s trademark writing and in-depth analysis in this book and it fits in quite well stylistically with the other books.

Robert Greene Books on Bedspread

What Robert Greene Book Should I Read First?

While there is an argument that can be made for Mastery being the first in the list, The 48 Laws of Power was the book that broke Greene into the mainstream and it really is the first Robert Greene book that should be read by newcomers. This is the book that skyrocketed Robert Greene into the stratosphere and many (including myself) are that it’s his best book.

Some would argue that later books do an important job of setting more foundational work, and that books like Mastery and The 18 Laws of Human Nature focus more on broad foundational work that is crucial for getting the most out of 48 Laws. That being said, I would argue that the 48 Laws book is the crucial first step because reading this not only exposes you to the best and most important book first, but this also creates the lens through which you can see other books.

Many people who aren’t as familiar with the books argue that you go with mastery/nature books first to get the right foundation, but the lens can work the other way, as well. By reading Mastery and Human Nature after first getting familiar with the 48 Laws means that you can pick up the ideas of how mastery works and how human nature works with those laws in mind.

The lens can work both ways, and in my opinion, either one can be valid. A lot depends on a person’s temperament, where they are in life, what their career or current power situation is, but there are a couple of “proper” orders for Robert Greene books and we’ll go over both of them and who they’re best for.

Two main lines of thought on what the best order for Robert Greene books go as follows:

So the best order that most agree upon (although books can be adjusted based on where the person is in life).

The majority of people will generally look at this as the right order, and then throw on The 50th Law at the end, which actually I would agree with. That is the order that starts with the most famous of the books and the one that starts with the strongest book that started it all, goes straight into the art of mastery, flows into using mastery and an understanding of the laws to view the laws of human nature, then finishes off with two doses of very different power strategies.

This is a great order and the one that I find is best for the majority of readers.

For heavy philosophically-minded individuals, for those who really, really need to have all the foundational and philosophical points in place before slowly advancing, there is an alternative order that can make a lot of sense. I’m close to this group so I get how this order could work, but I estimate probably less than 10% of all readers would do clearly better reading Robert Greene books in this order versus the more traditional one, but if you think that might be you consider:

There’s also an argument here in the second list for putting The 50th Law before The Art of Seduction. For a certain type of orderly mind, that will make a lot of sense and it will work well.

What About The 50th Law ?

The 50th Law was a very interesting book that Greene released in 2009 shortly after The Art of Seduction, and it’s worth the read, it’s just a very different book so it’s not included in the core book list. I would recommend making it book #6 on your Robert Greene reading list. This book is part Robert Greene deep dive study of business law and power, and part autobiography of famed rapper 50 Cent.

Greene’s book The 48 Laws of Power have long been a huge hit in the hip hop world, and 50 Cent was one of many top hip hop artists who have openly praised that book and obsessed over it. Because of his he reached out to Greene and a mutual respect became friendship and this project was born out of it.

Wikipedia actually does a half way decent job summarizing the story behind this book, and it’s a great read, but I feel you get the most out of it once you’ve read Greene’s other works.

Like I said, great read, but it’s not core canon of Greene’s books and it’s best read after the other main ones.

Robert Greene Reading List, In Conclusion

There are many people who find one of Greene’s books out of order, have a great experience, and then find the others. Honestly, if the books couldn’t stand alone they wouldn’t have had the impact they’ve had. Each of Greene’s books bring a lot of knowledge and learning, and there’s nothing wrong with reading them in any order the piques your interest, but there’s a reason why there are generally two main ordered lists of how to read these books.

I tend to fall on the more philosophical side where I want foundation to maximize my action as opposed to needing immediate action to verify foundtion. Because of that I think the best order is:

This dives you right into the best of Greene’s works, delves into foundation and mastery right after, then brings you back around with your newly acquired skills to re-read and re-learn the original laws at a higher level.

This order did wonders for me, and it’s the one I recommend most readers take, though I understand those who want the full base foundation first before diving in. That’s the best order for reading Robert Greene books to get the most out of them, and I wish you well on your upcoming journey of discovery. These are some dense reads, but the payoff is worth the time and effort invested many times over.

Other Articles You May Enjoy

Robert Greene: Biography, Career, Books & Net Worth (2023)

Robert Greene is an American author of six international best sellers and is one of the most influential writers of our times.

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Tomas Laurinavicius

Co-founder & Chief Editor, Best Writing

Blog post cover picture

Robert Greene is noteworthy for writing books on life lessons, inspiration, romantic seduction, human nature, business, and daily life psychology.

Robert Greene was born on 14th of May, 1959, therefore is of age 63, as of 2023. He has sold million copies of his books. Robert Greene net worth in millions.

He has worked eighty odd jobs before becoming a writer, and working in varied fields has given him the chance to gather precious life experiences reflected in his works.

Robert Greene Biography

Robert Greene has immense psychological insight into human mind and shares best ways to improve one's lives. Robert Greene net worth is as high as seven million USD.

But Robert Greene's success story is not a rosy path as one might think. Robert Greene was born to Jewish parents, and not much is known about his personal life.

Robert Greene Early Life

Robert Greene's early life was in Los Angeles, California.

He went on to pursue classical studies in University of Wisconsin-Madison, and later went to work at an art and media school called Fabrica in Italy. This was the turning point in his life.

Robert Greene Personal Life

Robert Greene currently lives in Los Angeles with his girlfriend Anna Biller, who is a filmmaker. Robert Green does mountain biking, swimming, masters in five languages and is also a Zen Buddhism student.

He is a supporter of Barack Obama and speaks against Donald Trump's ideas of power.

Robert Greene Books

Robert Greene Career

In Fabrica, he met a book packager called Joost Elffers, to whom Robert Greene pitched the idea which later became The 48 Laws of Power. At that time he was also working as a Hollywood movie writer.

Greene published this book in the year 1998. It talks about power dynamics, deriving from historical figures and famous personalities like Alexander the Great, Thomas Alva Edison, Benjamin Franklin, Charles Darwin, Sun Tzu, Carl von Clausewitz, Henry Kissinger, Queen Elizabeth I, P.T Barnum, etc.

Robert Greene released his second book The Art of Seduction in 2001 which gained him a large seduction community.

Robert Greene’s Net Worth

Robert Greene's net worth is in millions. As of 2023, a rough estimated net worth is 7 million dollars. He also has wealth invested in property and has assets worth a lot. But that information is not disclosed to public.

Robert Greene net worth can come as a surprise to many but they are not familiar with the power of writers. His best selling books have made him a millionaire.

Famous Robert Greene Quotes

“...But the human tongue is a beast that few can master. It strains constantly to break out of its cage, and if it is not tamed, it will tun wild and cause you grief.” – The 48 Laws of Power

“The future belongs to those who learn more skills and combine them in creative ways.” – Mastery

“Lord, protect me from my friends; I can take care of my enemies.” – The 48 Laws of Power

“Strike the shepherd and the sheep will scatter.” – The 48 Laws of Power

“No one is really going to help you or give you direction. In fact, the odds are against you.” – Mastery

“When you show yourself to the world and display your talents, you naturally stir all kinds of resentment, envy, and other manifestations of insecurity... you cannot spend your life worrying about the petty feelings of others.” – The 48 Laws of Power

“Understand: people will constantly attack you in life. One of their main weapons will be to instill in you doubts about yourself – your worth, your abilities, your potential. They will often disguise this as their objective opinion, but invariably it has a political purpose – they want to keep you down.” – The 50th Law

“When our emotions are engaged, we often have trouble seeing things as they are.” – The Art of Seduction

“People are more complicated than the masks they wear in society.” – The Art of Seduction

"Grand strategy is the art of looking beyond the present battle and calculating ahead. Focus on your ultimate goal and plot to reach it.” – The 33 Strategies of War

“He who poses as a fool is not a fool.” – The 48 Laws of Power

“Do not fight them. Instead think of them the way you think of children, or pets, not important enough to affect your mental balance.” – The 33 Strategies of War

“Your fears are a kind of prison that confines you within a limited range of action. The less you fear, the more power you will have and the more fully you will live.” – The 50th Law

“Desire is both imitative (we like what others like) and competitive (we want to take away from others what they have). As children, we wanted to monopolize the attention of a parent, to draw it away from other siblings. This sense of rivalry... makes people compete for the attention.” – The Art of Seduction

“Fools say that they learn by experience. I prefer to profit by others’ experience.” – The 48 Laws of Power

“Sadness of any sort is also seductive, particularly if it seems deep-rooted, even spiritual, rather than needy or pathetic—it makes people come to you.” – The Art of Seduction

“You must understand the following: In order to master a field, you must love the subject and feel a profound connection to it. Your interest must transcend the field itself and border on the religious.” – Mastery

“Events in life mean nothing if you do not reflect on them in a deep way, and ideas from books are pointless if they have no application to life as you live it.” – The 33 Strategies of War

“Power is a game, and in games you do not judge your opponents by their intentions but by the effects of their actions.” – The 48 Laws of Power

“Do not wait for a coronation; the greatest emperors crown themselves.” – The 48 Laws of Power

“Any man who tries to be good all the time is bound to come to ruin among the great number who are not good.” – The 48 Laws of Power

“It is not much good being wise among fools and sane among lunatics.” – The 48 Laws of Power

“It is your own bad strategies, not the unfair opponent, that are to blame for your failures. You are responsible for the good and bad in your life.” – The 33 Strategies of War

“Oysters open completely when the moon is full; and when the crab sees one it throws a piece of stone or seaweed into it and the oyster cannot close again so that it serves the crab for meat. Such is the fate of him who opens his mouth too much and thereby puts himself at the mercy of the listener. Leonardo da Vinci, 1452-1519.” – The 48 Laws of Power

"Boldness makes even the smallest animal dangerous." – Robert Greene

Robert Greene is a proud alumni of University of Wisconsin Madison. He calls himself a successful non fiction author, and rightfully so.

He has written six international bestsellers, focusing on best military strategies and great military leaders, world's masters, human nature, and earning money online.

He has been a mentor to Ryan Holiday. Robert Greene books Greene's are read by famous personalities like Jay Z, Kanye West, and are a great influence on the modern world. Robert Greene net worth is also a matter of awe to his followers.

Robert Greene books are now a worldwide phenomena.

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Words Of The Past

5 Best Robert Greene Books For A Strategized Reading

1. the 48 laws of power.

Robert Greene book is preferable to all other books of self-motivation because it not only teaches you what you want to hear but also what you don’t want to hear. Author has demonstrated his views in a clear and practical way by disclosing harsh realities and tough people that would always be one’s challenge. In order to succeed one has to beat all illusions and myths, handle the bad people who are full of evil. Success doesn’t come only with a hard work but also smart work done in a smart way. Book emphasized on being evil to get your extra-ordinary dreams come true however its true message was to make our outer shells impervious to evils which can only be possible when we learn to distinguish between good and bad by taking firsthand experience in evil things.

Robert Greene has taken a lot of pain and made a lot of effort to understand the proficiency of great leaders, perseverance of unshakeable souls, and pretension to success of idealists. Such great study enabled him to write a widely read book on mastery which indeed makes us masters of anything we deserve to. He analyzed the lives of Charles Darwin, Albert Einstein etc and narrated their rationalized approach to fulfilling any gruesome task and coming out as winners. Rather than writing a lengthy novel Robert Greene has written a short and concise novel full of greatness. Book testified to the fact that he is one of the most prolific writers of this generation and one who puts a lot of effort in writing his book. I recommend Robert Greene books to become a part of this modern society.

3. The Art of Seduction

As the name suggests, this book is a true seductive weapon, which takes your breath away and puts you in a state of astonishment over your achievements. I caught fancy to this book and forced to buy this one due to Robert Greene’s rich legacy of writing truly inspiration books. I didn’t disappoint myself and did justice by coming to know about the mystic secrets of some well-known personalities who have faded with time. Extract of this book states that “you can achieve anything you want if you do the thoughtful labor of knowing what others want and do as per the book”. Winning over people is easy when we take time to think about what other seek from us and respond in a well-defined way. Robert Greene has done justice to his reputation and produced another majestic eye-opener.

4. The 33 Strategies of War

This book is far from war teachings as the name otherwise suggests but it guides us through the challenges encountered and winnings by some of the great achievers of this earth. This aggressive, fast-paced book, illustrates the different situations and pros and cons of fighting any given situation in different ways. Rather than being strong those who are well-thought, rational in their approach, timid in changing their perspectives, are the ones who win. There is not much to write about this demanding writer, Robert Greene , who is an undisputed best-motivator of all times. His books are filled with succinct facts and explanations to any problem that we face in our lives. He has brought to us the lessons learnt by greats who are already dead.

5. Interviews with the Masters

No other writer spent so much time in researching all aspects of contemporary masters who are incomparable when it comes to their achievements for the society. I learnt to reconcile to my fears and did justice to my abilities after learning to control my eccentricities, anxieties, and became a more mature and dependable person who could think the right way rather than drifting away temporarily in moments of spur. Must read for teenagers and people of all age-groups.

Last Updated: 8 August 2018

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Robert Greene Books

Robert Greene is a #1 New York Times bestselling author. His most popular books include The 48 Laws of Power, The 33 Strategies of War, The Art of Seduction, The Laws of Human Nature and Mastery. Greene is an internationally renowned expert on power strategies and speaks five languages. He lives in Los Angeles.

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About the Author

Robert Greene  has a degree in classical studies and is the author of several bestselling books, including  The 48 Laws of Power, The 33 Strategies of War ,  The Art of Seduction ,  Mastery , and  The 50th Law  (with rapper 50 Cent). He lives in Los Angeles.

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  1. 5 Best Robert Greene Books (2023)

    Mastery is one of Robert Greene's best-selling books that will help you unlock your full potential, and pave the way to you becoming a master in your own right and field by overcoming the obstacles in the way. The Laws of Human Nature Spot the Flaws By now we have established that Greene likes to write about Laws.

  2. Books by Robert Greene (Author of The 48 Laws of Power)

    Books by Robert Greene (Author of The 48 Laws of Power) Books by Robert Greene Robert Greene Average rating 4.17 · 229,025 ratings · 14,086 reviews · shelved 935,227 times Showing 30 distinct works. « previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 next » sort by « previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 next » * Note: these are all the books on Goodreads for this author.

  3. Robert Greene (Author of The 48 Laws of Power)

    There is more than one author by this name on Goodreads. Best-selling author and public speaker, Robert Greene was born in Los Angeles. He attended U.C. California at Berkeley and the University of Wisconsin at Madison, where he received a degree in classical studies.

  4. BEST Robert Greene Books & Quotes of All Time

    Until then, here are the best Robert Greene books of all time... 1. The 48 Laws of Power - Robert Greene ( FREE Summary) The 48 Laws of Power is the ultimate guide to sociopathy gaining and defending against ultimate control - by author and your nearest dictator's favourite leadership coach, Robert Greene.

  5. 8 Most Engaging Robert Greene Books (Ranked) For 2023

    What Are The Must Read Robert Greene Books? (Check also Robert Greene's upcoming books) 01 The 48 Laws of Power (1998) The 48 Laws of Power broadened my mind to determine what power is and what it is about, most importantly, how it can be used against us daily.

  6. All Robert Greene Books, Sorted Chronologically & by Popularity

    All Robert Greene Books (in Chronological Order) 1. The 48 Laws of Power (1998) 2. The Art of Seduction (2001) 3. The 33 Strategies of War (2006) 4. The 50th Law (2009) 5. Mastery (2012) 6. The Laws of Human Nature (2018) 7. The Daily Laws (2021) Robert Greene Books by Popularity In What Order Should You Read Robert Greene's Books? Conclusion

  7. Cocktail of Power, Mastery and Seduction by Robert Greene

    Our list of the Robert Greene 5 Best Books will help you find the right book for you and show you how reading can improve your life. 1. The Laws of Human Nature by Robert Greene #1 New York Times Bestselling Author Learn how to detach yourself from your emotions, master self-control, develop empathy that leads to insight, and resist conformity.

  8. What Order Should I Read the Robert Greene Books?

    Those core Robert Greene books are: The 48 Laws of Power (1998) The 33 Strategies of War (2001) The Art of Seduction (2007) Mastery (2012) The 18 Laws of Human Nature (2018) These are the core books that are often considered the core of Robert Greene's teachings.

  9. Robert Greene: Biography, Career, Books & Net Worth (2023)

    He has written six international bestsellers, focusing on best military strategies and great military leaders, world's masters, human nature, and earning money online. He has been a mentor to Ryan Holiday. Robert Greene books Greene's are read by famous personalities like Jay Z, Kanye West, and are a great influence on the modern world.

  10. 5 Best Robert Greene Books For A Strategized Reading

    Here is a list of the 5 best Robert Greene booksfor a strategized reading: Contents 1. The 48 laws of Power Check on Amazon Robert Greene bookis preferable to all other books of self-motivation because it not only teaches you what you want to hear but also what you don't want to hear.

  11. List of Books by Robert Greene

    Robert Greene is a #1 New York Times bestselling author. His most popular books include The 48 Laws of Power, The 33 Strategies of War, The Art of Seduction, The Laws of Human Nature and Mastery. Greene is an internationally renowned expert on power strategies and speaks five languages. He lives in Los Angeles. Bestsellers QUICK ADD

  12. Amazon.com: Robert Greene: books, biography, latest update

    Las 48 leyes del poder (Biblioteca Robert Greene) (Spanish Edition) 3,308 Kindle Edition $1799 Other formats: Hardcover, Paperback El arte de la seducción (Biblioteca Robert Greene) (Spanish Edition) 613 Kindle Edition $1472$17.99 Other formats: Audible Audiobook, Paperback Best Seller The 50th Law 4,428 Kindle Edition $1699

  13. The 48 Laws of Power: Greene, Robert: 8601400945018: Amazon.com: Books

    Robert Greene. Robert Greene is the author of the New York Times bestsellers The 48 Laws of Power, The Art of Seduction, The 33 Strategies of War, and The 50th Law. His highly anticipated fifth book, Mastery, examines the lives of great historical figures such as Charles Darwin, Mozart, Paul Graham and Henry Ford and distills the traits and ...

  14. Robert Greene RANKED- Top 5 Books

    Robert Greene RANKED- Top 5 Books Cody Pettengill 755 subscribers Subscribe 1.5K Share 41K views 3 years ago Robert Greene's top 5 Books from least to best. Robert Greene is my Favorite...

  15. Robert Greene

    Robert Greene has a degree in classical studies and is the author of several bestselling books, including The 48 Laws of Power, The 33 Strategies of War, The Art of Seduction, Mastery, and The 50th Law (with rapper 50 Cent).He lives in Los Angeles.

  16. The 48 Laws of Power International Self-Help Best Seller Book

    Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for The 48 Laws of Power International Self-Help Best Seller Book - By Robert Greene at the best online prices at eBay! Free shipping for many products!

  17. 8 Kids Spanish Books for Middel School Kids

    These books are ideal for kids that speak Spanish as a first language between the grades of 6th to 8th. These titles are also available in English for those who don't feel comfortable with Spanish, but still want to read about Latin American culture. Readings for Middle School Kids: Spanish Books About Hispanic Cultures.

  18. History of Santa Clara County, California

    Appears in 40 books from 1853-1979. Page 117 - California. I declare to the inhabitants of California that, although I come in arms with a powerful force, I do not come among them as an enemy to California; on the contrary, I come as their best friend... Appears in 48 books from 1813-2007. Page 118 - With full confidence in the honor and ...

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  21. Robert Greene,Concise 4 Books Set 48 Laws, Seduction, Mastery & Human

    Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Robert Greene,Concise 4 Books Set 48 Laws, Seduction, Mastery & Human Nature at the best online prices at eBay! Free shipping for many products!