In a world filled with noise, these ten authors are raising voices that matter. The 10 Most Influential Books You Need to Know This Year is not just a reading list- it’s a curated spotlight on powerful thinkers, bold truth-tellers, and visionary leaders who are using the written word to change lives, shift mindsets, and spark movements.

From deeply personal memoirs and spiritual awakenings to powerful leadership lessons and transformative healing stories, each of these works offers more than just insight- they offer impact. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a lifelong learner, or someone navigating the complexities of life, these books were written for you.

Behind each title is a courageous author who chose to turn their message into a mission. These are not just writers- they are builders of legacy, advocates for change, and pioneers in their fields. Recognized by platforms like the International Impact Book Awards, these authors are being celebrated not only for the words on the page- but for the ripple effects they’re creating far beyond them.

1. The R Factor: Scaling Your Business Through Managing Relationships by Dr. Brian Kent

A must-read for leaders navigating the intersection of innovation and integrity, this upcoming release from Dr. Brian Kent draws from over 30 years of experience in global strategy, entrepreneurship, and defense consulting. From boardrooms to battlefields, Dr. Kent has advised government agencies and commercial enterprises alike. Strategic Impact distills his high-level insights into accessible frameworks for business owners, investors, and visionaries who are ready to scale for legacy, not just profit.

2. Anointed to Sing the Gospel: The Levitical Legacy of Thomas A. Dorsey by Dr. Kathryn Kemp

This powerful work bridges history, faith, and music through the legacy of gospel pioneer Thomas A. Dorsey. Dr. Kathryn Kemp, a historian and ordained minister, revives sacred narratives that shaped America’s spiritual and cultural roots. The book has inspired the upcoming documentary Anointed to Impact and a national movement to establish a Gospel Music Museum. A must-read for those who believe in preserving the past to impact the future.

3. The Rooted Life by Erica Gifford Mills

For high-achieving women craving balance and purpose, The Rooted Life is both a mirror and a map. Erica Gifford Mills, award-winning author and empowerment coach, delivers practical tools and personal stories to help women reconnect with their core and live with unshakable authenticity. Her voice is one of the strongest in the leadership space today.

4. Business Kung Fu by Dr. Craig Cooke

In a unique blend of ancient truths and modern leadership strategies, Business Kung Fu by Dr. Craig Cooke brings the discipline of martial arts into the heart of entrepreneurship. Drawing from his deep expertise in both martial arts and business, Cooke reveals the powerful principles that helped him become an award-winning entrepreneur – and how you can apply the same strategies to your own success. Through this book, readers will learn how to build an unshakable foundation, develop the art of discipline, and understand the critical importance of training like a champion. Cooke shares how to choose your battles wisely, navigate wins with humility, and rise stronger from losses. He also breaks down the three key areas every leader must master to sustain long-term success. More than a business book, Business Kung Fu is a blueprint for resilience, strategy, and inner mastery.

5. God’s Message to Men by Joseph Giammarco

This heartfelt work combines faith, humor, and personal experience to explore masculinity, marriage, and redemption. Joseph Giammarco, a retired engineer and spiritual seeker, opens up about his life journey with refreshing vulnerability. God’s Message to Men is a timely invitation to reconnect with biblical principles and rediscover purpose through divine wisdom.

6. No More Silence by Debbie Widhalm

An emotional and inspiring memoir, No More Silence recounts the personal journey of burn nurse and survivor Debbie Widhalm. From trauma and single motherhood to healing and hope, Debbie’s voice is both raw and redemptive. Her children’s book, The Story of Tops the Chinese Goose, complements this journey by teaching compassion, courage, and inclusion to a younger generation.

7. Dr. Black Widow by Mike Cromwell

Part memoir, part justice manifesto, this gripping book tells the story of love, loss, betrayal, and legal warfare. Mike Cromwell, owner and president of a commercial contracting company and author, turns pain into purpose as he shines a light on the failures of the justice system and the depths of personal resilience. This story is currently being adapted into a narrative feature film.

8. Finding Hope When Storms Don’t Cease by Valerie Juillerat

Through loss, addiction, and heartbreak, Valerie Juillerat’s spiritual memoir offers unshakable faith as an anchor. Her multi-sensory presentations through Lessons of the Heart Ministries have already touched thousands. Now, this book brings her deeply personal and universal message to an even broader audience. It’s a survival guide for the soul.

9. Unprotected: The Final Round — Navigating the Shark-Infested Waters of Sports, Business, and Life by Alan Santana

This powerful guidebook blends life lessons from the ring with real-world business strategy. Alan Santana, a former boxing champion and entrepreneur, offers raw wisdom on discipline, legacy, and rebuilding after loss. With mentorship at the core of his mission, this book punches far above its weight.

10. The Power of Purpose-Driven Partnerships by Kathryn Selvidge

Drawing from two decades in nonprofit leadership and corporate social responsibility, Kathryn Selvidge offers a roadmap to doing good at scale. This upcoming book pulls from her experience raising over $50 million for global causes and working with brands like Dunkin’ Donuts and PG&E. For those interested in storytelling with impact, it’s essential reading.

These ten authors remind us that books are more than stories, they’re vessels of transformation. The impact of their work stretches across industries, generations, and borders, inviting us to think deeper, lead stronger, and live more intentionally.

As you explore their words, you’re not just reading a book, you’re witnessing the start of something bigger. Movements. Ministries. Businesses. Community healing. These authors aren’t waiting to be discovered, they’re leading the way.

So whether you’re looking for clarity, courage, or connection, one of these books is holding the answer. And if you’re an emerging author yourself, let this be your sign: there is power in your story. These ten proved it.

This is the year to read with purpose, and these are the voices leading the charge.

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