Celebrity Authors and Their Must-Read Novels

Traditionally, a Hollywood “triple threat” could sing, act, and dance. However, having just three talents isn’t enough for the stars. To stand out, many celebrities are expanding their resumes to include roles as producers, entrepreneurs, models, directors, and, recently, authors. Celebrities are diving into writing from children’s books and cookbooks to essay collections and memoirs—and their work is quite impressive. Here are some of our favorite books by celebrities.

Best Fiction by Celebrities

1 The Gun Seller by Hugh Laurie

British actor Hugh Laurie ventured into the mystery-thriller genre in 1996 with The Gun Seller, an engaging comic espionage novel featuring a former British military mercenary with a penchant for finding trouble despite his kindhearted nature. According to The New York Times, the book is “genuinely witty and sophisticated entertainment,” likening it to “Bertie Wooster meets James Bond.” If you’re unfamiliar with Bertie Wooster, consider exploring P.G. Wodehouse’s comedy novels (and Laurie’s performance in the timeless TV series Jeeves & Wooster).

You can do it yourself if you want to expand your A-list novels. The FictionMe platform has many recommended books, including celebrity fiction, constant updates, and user ratings. This is a great chance to expand your library with minimal effort.

2 Postcards from the Edge by Carrie Fisher

Carrie Fisher’s semi-autobiographical novel, published in 1987, is regarded as one of the finest examples of a celebrity transitioning to an author. The book has deservedly become one of the most popular in the FictionMe app, although it is inferior to some more intriguing publications. The book follows a young Hollywood actress over a year as she recovers from drug rehab and begins anew. Bold and honest, this novel was a huge success and was eventually adapted into a movie. Fun fact: “Postcards from the Edge” begins in a traditional epistolary format, unfolding through a series of letters, hence the title.

Most Recommended Novels From Famous Writers and Celebrities

1 Talking to My Angels by Melissa Etheridge

Melissa Etheridge is set to bring her soul-stirring performances to Broadway this September with a new one-woman show. Her journey from personal stories to global stages has earned this rock artist prestigious awards like Grammys and Oscars. From her debut album in 1988 to her 2003 memoir, The Truth Is…: My Life In Love and Music, Melissa, now 62, has always been candid and transparent with her audience.

Watch as Etheridge tackles topics close to heart in our upcoming series; she discusses thrilling career milestones like bagging an Oscar, navigating through painful relationship endings, and dealing with unimaginable grief after losing her son Becketteffects With a voice that’s both strong and brimming with personal truths, Etheridge reaches out to resonate on a real level. Speaking to My Guardians Above No matter how dark it gets, she consistently finds a glimmer of hope to guide her.

2 Truly Like Lightning by David Duchovny

David Duchovny, widely recognized for his portrayal of FBI agent Fox Mulder on The X-Files, has ventured into the literary world with notable success. Beyond the screen, David Duchovny has created several books; one of these works, “Truly Like Lighting,” stands out prominently as perhaps his greatest literary achievement, according to fans and critics alike.

In Truly Like Lightning, readers are plunged into the lives of a daring ex-stuntman and his large Mormon family, struggling to make their home on the harsh terrain of the Californian desert. Through its narrative arcs on personal growth within families to broader conversations on nature’s survival amid human impact—this work invites reflection from all angles.

3 The Woman in Me by Britney Spears

This fall, Britney Spears fans have something truly special to look forward to the release of “The Woman In Me,” a memoir where Britney Spears herself, at 41, shares her story in her own words. Unlike the many quickie biographies—often penned by authors who have never met her—or the official Britney Spears coloring book and the “Oops!…I Did It Again” guided journal, this book promises an authentic and deeply personal account. Described as “a brave and astonishingly moving story about freedom, fame, motherhood, survival, faith, and hope,” readers can expect an intimate look at Spears’ journey from teen stardom to life after her well-publicized conservatorship. Finally, hear Britney’s voice narrate her tale.

Books By Celebrities: Must-Read Novels From Your Favorite Stars

We’ve compiled a list of genuine books authored (or co-authored) by well-known celebrities. Rather than broader public figures, we focus on figures from the entertainment industry—such as actors, musicians, and reality TV stars. For instance, we won’t be including former presidents. This collection features a variety of genres—including mystery, romance, and historical fiction—and caters to different age groups.