Hello, beautiful people.
When I saw the prompt for this week, If you were to a recommend a book that falls under the theme of fresh beginnings what would it be, and what makes it impactful?, I couldn't help but think about the one book that I've read more than three times and never get tired of. As booklovers, we all know that there are SO many books to read, and to still always find one's way back to one particular book? I just want to live in this book if I can, lol. But, I am already living through the very relatable characters.
I’m about to dive into a book that changed how I see not just money but life itself. If I had to recommend one book that screams "fresh beginnings," it would be The Smart Money Woman by Arese Ugwu. Honestly, this book did something to me that I didn’t even realize I needed, it forced me to confront my relationship with money, friendships, and the future.
Now, if you’re wondering why this book is a big deal, let me take you on a little journey. The story follows Zuri, a beautiful, ambitious woman living in Lagos, and her four friends; Tami, Lara, Adesuwa, and Ladun. On the surface, these women have it all: great jobs, social status, and a lifestyle that screams “I’ve made it.” But behind the gloss, there’s chaos, poor financial decisions, money draining habits and lessons waiting to be learned.
Zuri
Zuri’s journey hit me like a brick. At the start, she’s your classic modern woman: independent and thriving, or so it seems. This woman earned up to quarter of a million Naira monthly without being responsible for anyone other than herself and her basic needs, yet, money's never enough for her. She’s forced to reckon with the truth: she’s living paycheck to paycheck, spending mindlessly on exotic vacations, Birkin bags, drowning in debt and unpaid house rent.
I remember pausing after reading the first few chapters. It felt personal, like Zuri was a mirror reflecting back my own financial habits. Her decision to take control of her finances was the ultimate fresh beginning. Through budgeting, saving, and educating herself, she rebuilt not just her bank account but her confidence too. It was a reminder that it’s never too late to start over.
Tami
Tami, the fashion designer, gave me so much life. She’s the friend with big dreams but an even bigger spending habit. Her story taught me about the importance of separating personal and business finances. Watching her transform from a carefree spender to someone who values her craft and takes charge of her money was inspiring.
It made me think about how often we let passion lead without proper planning. Tami’s journey showed that being intentional about your goals and resources can turn dreams into reality without leaving you broke.
Lara
Lara’s story was the most emotional for me. Earning the biggest paycheck, she seemed to have it all, but her life was weighed down by familial obligations and societal expectations. What struck me most was when she broke down after analyzing how she owned nothing tangible despite working tirelessly and earning a lot of money. Her mother, brother and even extended family were directly dependent on her.
Her journey to balance family loyalty with personal ambition reminded me that fresh beginnings sometimes mean setting boundaries and choosing your happiness over tradition while of course, still keeping our priorities straight and loyalty to the right people.
Adesuwa
Adesuwa’s story brought tears to my eyes. On the surface, she’s the perfect wife and career woman. But behind closed doors, she’s in a toxic marriage that drains her emotionally and financially. Her courage to leave the marriage and rebuild her life was nothing short of inspiring, despite how it has been made to seem like women leaving their marriages are failures.
It taught me that fresh starts often come with tough decisions and sacrifices. Sometimes, breaking free from what’s holding you back is the ultimate act of self-love.
Ladun
Ladun was the most frustrating character for me at first. Rich, entitled, and completely oblivious to the concept of earning her way. But her transformation was beautiful to witness. She moved from living off her husband’s wealth to finding her own footing and sense of purpose.
Her story reminded me that fresh beginnings might sometime require a complete mindset shift. It’s never too late to rewrite your narrative.
Reading The Smart Money Woman wasn’t just about following the characters’ lives, it was about re-evaluating my own. I started budgeting properly, setting financial goals, and being more intentional about my spending.
I realized that money isn’t just about numbers; it’s about choices, discipline, and freedom. Like Zuri and her friends, I had to unlearn bad habits and replace them with better ones. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it. And I must confess, I'm still a work in progress and perhaps that's why I keep going back to the book.
In fact, The Smart Money Woman is more than a book, it’s a wake-up call for anyone who feels stuck or overwhelmed by their finances. Arese Ugwu uses relatable characters, humor, and practical tips to make financial literacy accessible and enjoyable.
Whether you’re in your 20s, 30s, or beyond, this book will meet you where you are and show you the path to a fresh start. It’s not just for women—it’s for anyone ready to take control of their life.
So, if you're asking me to recommend a book on fresh beginnings to you, THIS IS IT.
Thank you for reading!
All images used in this article are mine.
Posted Using INLEO
