If you were a fan of HBO’s hit series, Succession, then you’re probably captivated by the complex dynamics of wealth, power, and family. The show follows the dramatic lives of the Roy family as they navigate the cutthroat world of media conglomerates and vie for control of their father’s empire.
If you’re craving more stories that delve into the dark underbelly of family dynasties, look no further. In this blog post, we’ll explore ten books that will satisfy your appetite:
The House of Gucci by Sara Gay Forden
In the early morning of March 27th 1995, shots rang out through the streets of Milan. The heir of the fabulous fashion dynasty Gucci, Maurizio Gucci, was ambushed and slain on the steps of his office. Two years later, Maurizio’s ex-wife Patrizia Reggiani is arrested for the murder.
This beautifully written, well-researched and widely acclaimed true crime novel takes you behind the scenes of one of fashion’s most famous murder cases.
American Pop: A Novel by Snowden Wright.
Set against the backdrop of the American South, this multigenerational saga follows the Forster family as they build a soda empire. Wright weaves together the story of the family’s rise to power with the cultural and political changes that shaped America in the 20th century.
With its richly drawn characters and vivid descriptions, if you are looking for the rise and fall of an influential fictional family, American Pop is a must-read for fans of Succession.
Breaking News: Sex, Lies and The Murdoch Succession by Paul Barry
82-year-old Media Mogul Rupert Murdoch is divorcing his third wife and gearing up for his toughest challenge – deciding who will inherit his empire. Lachlan doesn’t want to succeed him. James is considered a disgrace, and Elisabeth isn’t even a series contender.
Readers are taken behind the scenes of one of the most powerful media empires in the world. This gripping account explores the inner workings of the Murdoch family and the battle for control of their vast media holdings. Filled with scandal, intrigue, and larger-than-life characters, Barry’s book is a page-turner that will leave you hungry for more, especially if you love Succession.
Unscripted: The Epic Battle for A Media Empire and The Redstone Family Legacy by James B. Stewart & Rcchel Abrams
Unscripted takes readers inside the boardrooms and executive suites of Hollywood’s biggest players. Following the fate of Paramount Global and its founder and head, Sumner M. Redstone and the takeover of his business.
Stewart, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, offers a fascinating look at the inner workings of the entertainment industry, complete with all the backstabbing, betrayals, and power plays you would expect. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the dark side of show business that we never see.
Fortune’s Children: The Fall of the House of Vanderbilt by Arthur T. Vanderbilt
Readers are transported to the Gilded Age and the opulent world of the Vanderbilt family with this novel. Vanderbilt explores the rise and fall of one of America’s wealthiest families, delving into the scandals, extravagance, and power struggles that ultimately led to their downfall. With its rich historical detail and compelling storytelling, this book is a captivating read for fans of Succession.
Empire of Pain by Patrick Radden Keefe
This book tells the gripping story of the Sackler family, the pharmaceutical dynasty behind the opioid crisis. Keefe meticulously unravels the web of deceit, greed, and corruption that allowed the Sacklers to amass unimaginable wealth while fuelling a public health crisis. This book offers a chilling look at the dark side of corporate power and the devastating consequences it can have on society.
The Heirs by Susan Rieger
The Heirs follows a wealthy New York City clan, as they grapple with their father’s sudden death and the distribution of his fortune. Rieger deftly explores the intricate web of relationships within the family, revealing the secrets, rivalries, and resentments that threaten to tear them apart.
With its compelling characters and nuanced exploration of family dynamics, if you are looking for something with the vibe of Succession, then The Heirs is for you.
House on Fire by Joseph Finder
In this gripping thriller, investigator Nick Heller finds himself up against the wealthy and influential Kimball family and their pharmaceutical company, after his friend overdoses. He finds an unlikely ally in the daughter of the head of Kimball Pharma. She wants to bring down her father’s empire and right the wrongs of her family. Or so she says.
This fast-paced narrative with intricate plot twists will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
The Godfather by Mario Puzo
No list of books about family dynasties would be complete without mentioning The Godfather by Mario Puzo. This is a different kind of family dynasty. The Godfather offers a gripping exploration of power, loyalty, and the lengths people will go to protect their families. Puzo’s iconic novel has become a classic for a reason, and its themes of family and legacy will undoubtedly resonate with fans of Succession.
If you’re hungry for more stories of power, wealth, and family drama after watching Succession, these ten books will satisfy your craving. Have you watched Succession? Have you read any of these books or want to suggest your own? Comment below and let us know.