Think Wellness Is Harmless? These Twisty Novels Will Make You Think Again
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The wellness industry promises balance, beauty, and a better version of you. But what happens when self-care spirals into something more sinister?
In this reading list, we’re diving into novels that peel back the layers of influencer retreats, corporate girlboss culture, and boutique spiritual branding. These books range from sharp satire to fast-paced suspense—but they all share a common theme: the illusion of wellness and the very real costs of chasing it.
This list pairs perfectly with my podcast interview with journalist Amy LaRocca, whose nonfiction book How to Be Well takes a clear-eyed look at the billion-dollar industry that’s supposed to make us feel better—but often leaves us feeling worse. You can listen to the full episode here.
The Glow by Jessie Gaynor
Jane Dorner is a struggling publicist drowning in debt when she discovers a grungy, Instagrammable retreat run by the ethereal Cass and her skeptical husband Tom. Sensing an opportunity, Jane transforms Cass into a viral wellness brand—but the deeper she gets, the more she realizes that selling self-care might come at a personal cost.
A sharp, witty take on influencer culture, capitalist ambition, and the PR-fueled glow-up economy.
You’re Safe Here by Leslie Stephens
Set in 2060, this near-future thriller follows Maggie, a pregnant woman retreating to a luxury wellness pod—only to discover she’s anything but safe. Meanwhile, her partner Noa uncovers unsettling truths about the technology behind the pods.
Part tech dystopia, part maternal suspense, this novel asks what happens when we outsource safety, serenity, and self-care to machines.
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Self Care by Leigh Stein
At Richual, a wellness startup built for the girlboss era, founders Maren and Devin are preaching empowerment… while quietly chasing VC funding and covering up scandal. When a PR nightmare and a sexual misconduct allegation collide, their curated brand begins to unravel.
This biting satire explores the murky intersection of feminism, capitalism, and performative social justice in the age of hashtags.
Under the Influence by Noelle Crooks
Harper lands her dream job working for Charlotte Green, a glamorous self-help influencer with a devoted following. At first, it feels like purpose—with perks. But under the surface of the brand lies forced positivity, manipulation, and a dangerous loss of self.
Perfect for fans of The Devil Wears Prada, this novel explores the high price of ambition in an Instagram-filtered world.
Snake Oil by Kelsey Rae Dimberg
Rhoda West built Radical on promises of empowerment and transformation. But when a tragedy strikes and an anonymous Twitter account starts spilling secrets, three women tied to the brand must confront what they’ve enabled—and what they’ve ignored.
This fast-paced thriller tears into startup culture, marketing speak, and the dark side of belief.
The Astrology House by Carinn Jade
Margot signs up for a retreat hoping to rest, reconnect with her brother, and reset her fertility journey. But once inside this astrology-themed getaway, secrets unravel fast—and the group’s host, Rini, might have her own agenda.
A suspenseful debut about fate, deception, and what happens when a curated escape turns into a dangerous reckoning.
The Namaste Club by Asha Elias
During “Transcendence Week” at a luxe yoga retreat, a group of South Florida’s rich and restless gather under the guidance of influencer Shakti. But what begins as chakra-cleansing quickly devolves into secrets, drama—and an alligator named Bubba.
Equal parts satire and suspense, this is White Lotus meets Nine Perfect Strangers, with a sharp wink at the absurdity of spiritual branding.
Listen: How to Be Well with Amy LaRocca
These fictional stories echo real-life themes explored in Amy LaRocca’s How to Be Well, a nonfiction deep dive into how the modern wellness movement became a $4 trillion industry—and how it affects women’s lives, bodies, and bank accounts everywhere.
In our podcast conversation, Amy unpacks:
- Why are so many of us drawn to wellness culture
- The line between healing and hustling
- How can we reclaim true well-being without buying into hype
Listen to the full episode here
What to Read Next
Love the theme of “wellness with a dark side”? Add these to your TBR:
- The Herd by Andrea Bartz
- Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid
- Cultish by Amanda Montell (nonfiction)
- Trick Mirror by Jia Tolentino (essays)
Let’s Talk Wellness
Have you read any of these books? Which ones hit close to home? I’d love to hear your thoughts—drop a comment below or join the discussion over on Substack or Instagram.
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