New Books for the Hoard: January 2026 Releases

One of the things I’m most excited to begin sharing with our little reading village is a monthly look at new books arriving in the world.

Now, a small confession before we open the book crate. I’m starting a bit late for 2026, so these posts will be appearing a little higgledy-piggledy for the next few weeks while we catch up with the calendar. Once we’re all aligned with the current month, though, these release lists will arrive two weeks after each Hungry Hungry Wyrm Book Club post, like clockwork (hopefully).

These lists and descriptions are a cozy conglomeration gathered from booksellers, libraries, and other bookish corners of the book world. I've tried to pull titles across different genres, countries, original languages, and reader interests so that everyone wandering through the stacks might find something that sparks their curiosity.

January’s selections and descriptions come in part from lists shared by Bookshop.org, goodreads.com, bookriot.com, mrbsemporium.com, the authors' pages themselves, and other booksellers keeping a watchful eye on upcoming releases. Mr. B’s Emporium in particular has an incredible collection of themed lists that I found endlessly intriguing. I suspect I’ll be wandering back through their shelves for inspiration many times.

Of course, with the sheer number of books being published these days, it would be nearly impossible to capture every single release. If you know of a January release you’re excited about that isn’t listed here, please share it in the comments along with the author and what caught your attention. Book recommendations are far better when they travel reader to reader.

A quick note on content warnings: Since many of these books are new to me as well, I’m not able to provide specific trigger or content warnings. If that’s something you like to check before reading or sharing a book, I recommend doing a quick search to make sure the title is a good fit for you.

And now, without further ado…

Let’s see what January 2026 brought into the book world.

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Romance & Contemporary Love Stories

Perfect if you're craving heartbeats, hopeful endings, and maybe a little swoon.

Like in Love with You Emma R. Alban (13 January 2026)

Catherine moves to Bath and is tasked by her mother with winning over the suitor of the popular Lady Rosalie, who is her mother's nemesis. The two women, initially rivals, find themselves drawn to each other as they try to sabotage their own arranged courtship with the "lame dude".

(Sapphic romance, regency romance, historical fiction, romantic comedy -rivals-to-lovers, enemies-to-lovers, found family, and subverting expectations)

Catch Her If You Can Tessa Bailey (20 January 2026)

(#5 in Big Shots series)

When Eve Mitchell suddenly becomes responsible for her sister’s children, Madden Donahue proposes a marriage of convenience so she can access his health benefits. Eve agrees, but insists the arrangement remain private to protect both their reputations. As their pretend marriage begins to blur into something real, Madden sets out to prove that their connection has always been more than just friendship.

(Sports romance, marriage of convenience, friends-to-lovers, contemporary)

Remember That Day Mary Balogh (6 January 2026)

(#5 in Ravenswood series)

The story of an unexpected romance between two people who seem entirely mismatched. Winifred Cunningham, a thoughtful pacifist, finds herself repeatedly crossing paths with Nicholas Ware, a hardened cavalry colonel whose blunt demeanor initially puts her off. Yet beneath their disagreements grows a quiet, undeniable attraction neither expected. As prior commitments and family ties complicate matters, both must decide whether the pull between them is worth risking everything.

(Historical/regency romance, enemies-to-lovers)

Playing for Keeps Alexandria Bellefleur (6 January 2026)

(Part of the Written in the Stars universe)

Poppy Peterson is determined to protect her quarterback client, while the cool and formidable Rosaline Sinclair is equally committed to guarding her popstar superstar. As the two women clash professionally, their rivalry begins to spark into something far more personal. With media scrutiny and career loyalties at stake, Poppy and Rosaline must decide if their growing connection is worth the risk.

(Workplace romance, forced proximity, enemies-to-lovers, found family, media chaos)

Drive Me Crazy Lizzy Dent (6 January 2026)

Takes readers into the high-speed world of Formula 1, where ambition and old feelings collide. Team principal Chloe Coleman is determined to prove herself, but her plans are complicated by the arrival of Matt Warner, a once-champion driver and her childhood crush. As they work together to revive a struggling racing team, lingering emotions and undeniable chemistry begin to resurface. With the pressures of the racing season mounting, Chloe and Matt must decide if their partnership will lead them to victory or send everything spinning off course.

(Second-chance romances, workplace tension, forced proximity)

The Magic of Untamed Hearts Raquel Vasquez Gilliland (13 January 2026)

(#3 in Wild Magic series)

Sky Flores has always felt different, marked by strange experiences and a deep connection to the natural world that has left her isolated in her small town. When journalist Adam Noemi approaches her hoping to tell her unusual story, the two strike an unexpected agreement that slowly turns into something deeper. As trust grows between them, both must decide whether they are brave enough to open their hearts to a future neither of them planned.

(Fake dating, proximity, grumpy/sunshine, magical realism, urban fantasy, healing, small town romance)

Accidentally Yours Christina Lauren (20 January 2026)

(#1 in The Improbable Meet-Cute: Second Chances series)

When marketing consultant Veronica accidentally crashes the wrong Zoom meeting and bluntly critiques the presentation, she’s shocked when the company’s CEO offers her a job instead of an apology. Their professional emails quickly turn playful and flirtatious, but Veronica also finds herself drawn to the intriguing new neighbor next door. As Valentine’s Day approaches, she discovers that sometimes the most unlikely meet-cute can lead to the perfect match.

(Meet-cute, workplace romance, neighbors-to-lovers)

Greta Gets the Girl Melissa Marr (13 January 2026)

Greta Clayborne is a successful New York editor who prefers casual connections after past heartbreak, while Kaelee is a newly published author with secrets of her own. Their online connection quickly grows into something deeper, only for them to discover that Greta is actually Kaelee’s editor. As family pressures and professional risks mount, both must decide whether love is worth the complications.

(Forbidden love, career vs. heart, trust, overcoming trauma)

Chasing the Ring (Deluxe Edition) Lauren Rowe (27 January 2026)

(#1 in Football and Feels series)

Begins with a wedding day disaster that sends bride-to-be Iris Benedetto fleeing on a solo honeymoon. Determined to reclaim her confidence after her fiancé’s betrayal, Iris arrives in Kauai ready for a fresh start. When a devastatingly attractive stranger ends up double-booked in her bungalow, their unexpected proximity sparks a flirtation neither planned. What begins as an impulsive escape from heartbreak soon turns into a surprising chance at rediscovering passion.

(Enemies-to-lovers, fake dating, second chances, unexpected love)

The Lust Crusade Jo Segura (13 January 2026)

(#3 in Raiders of the Lost Heart series)

Blends adventure, romance, and mythology in a fast-paced treasure hunt. Librarian Daniela Guiterrez discovers that her long-lost crush Theo—an archaeologist thought to be missing—is actually being held captive by smugglers searching for a legendary gemstone. Forced to pretend they are engaged, the two must solve ancient riddles and navigate dangerous ruins while staying one step ahead of their captors. Along the way, the line between their fake relationship and real feelings begins to blur.

(Fake dating, forced proximity, second-chance romance, brother's best friend, mystery)

Chaotic Shantel Tessier (9 January 2026)

(#7 in L.O.R.D.S. series)

A dark romance set within a secretive and powerful society where loyalty and control rule everything. After years of struggling to reclaim her independence, the heroine finds her life once again entangled with Kashton Landon Pierce, a commanding figure from that dangerous world. What begins as a complicated power dynamic slowly reveals unexpected vulnerability and care. As their connection deepens, both must confront the darkness surrounding them and the possibility of a future neither expected.

(Grooming, sexual abuse, trauma, power dynamics, love in dark places)

Last First Kiss Julian Winters (27 January 2026)

A heartfelt second-chance romance about love, identity, and timing. Jordan Carter is focused on building his career at his family’s event planning company until he’s assigned to plan a wedding where the groom’s best man turns out to be Jamie Peters—the man he can’t quite forget. As wedding preparations bring them back into each other’s orbit, old feelings resurface and new possibilities emerge. Jordan must decide whether following his heart is the key to discovering who he truly wants to be.

(Self-discovery, identity, coming out)

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Fantasy & Speculative Adventures

Stories where fate, magic, and epic stakes are waiting just beyond the next page.

We Who Have No Gods Liza Anderson (27 January 2026)

(#1 in The Acheron Order series)

When Vic Wood discovers her missing mother belonged to a powerful magical order, she follows her newly gifted brother to a hidden academy despite having no magic of her own. Surrounded by rivals, secrets, and the intimidating sentinel tasked with guarding the school, Vic finds herself caught in forces far larger than she imagined. As tensions between witches escalate toward war, she must decide how far she’s willing to go to protect the only family she has left.

(Slow-burn romance, dark fantasy, magic academy)

To Ride a Rising Storm Moniquill Blackgoose (27 January 2026)

(#2 in Nampeshiweisit series)

Continues the story of Anequs and her dragon companion after their first year at Kuiper’s Academy. Returning home for the summer should bring rest, but new political tensions threaten the fragile balance between her people and outside powers. As foreign influence spreads across her homeland, Anequs finds herself drawn into a growing resistance. What begins as defiance may soon ignite into something far more dangerous.

(Colonialism, cultural survival, identity, resistance, reclamation)

The Swan’s Daughter Roshani Chokshi (6 January 2026)

Prince Arris knows that marriage may cost him his life thanks to a cursed royal tradition, yet a grand tournament is held to find him a bride. Among the dazzling and possibly dangerous contenders, he meets Demelza, a mysterious swan who can sing only the truth. As secrets and motives unravel, Arris must decide whether true love can break a curse built on betrayal and ambition.

(YA fantasy romance, cursed love, finding freedom, power of truth, risk of love)

King of Beasts Catherine Doyle (29 January 2026)

(#5 in Twin Crowns series)

Known for his hardened heart, King Alarik Felsing faces a new challenge when a legendary beast threatens his kingdom and a bold wrangler arrives to tame it. Greta Iversen’s fearless spirit quickly disrupts the king’s carefully guarded life. As danger and court intrigue rise, the two must decide whether trust—and perhaps love—can flourish amid chaos.

(Forbidden love, grumpy/sunshine, magical beasts, courtly intrigue, consequences of war)

Nine Goblins T. Kingfisher (20 January 2026)

When a troop of goblin soldiers is stranded behind enemy lines after a disastrous encounter with a wizard, survival becomes their top priority. Led by their practical sergeant Nessilka, the group must navigate forests full of elves, monsters, and suspicious humans. Along the way, they may prove that goblins are far more than the villains legends claim them to be.

(Fantasy, anti-war sentiments, disability, mental health)

The Bloody Branch Brigid Lowe (29 January 2026)

Reimagines ancient Celtic myth through the voices of the women at its heart. Drawing from the legendary tales of the Mabinogion, the novel explores power, transformation, and resistance in a land scarred by a cruel sorcerer’s ambition. Bound together by suffering and fate, several women call upon the forces of nature itself to challenge him. The result is a fierce retelling where myth, magic, and the strength of solidarity reshape an ancient story.

(Desire, revenge, nature, female resilience)

Through Gates of Garnet and Gold Seanan McGuire (6 January 2026)

(#11 in Wayward Children series)

Years after leaving Eleanor West’s school to reclaim her place in the Halls of the Dead, Nancy discovers her strange homeland has fallen into darkness. With living statues dying and the rulers powerless to stop it, she must return to the school she once left behind to seek help. But convincing others to enter a world ruled by the dead may prove nearly impossible.

(Portal fantasy, found family, gothic/dark fantasy, weaponized optimism)

The Poet Empress Shen Tao (20 January 2026)

Blends court intrigue, magic, and forbidden knowledge in a richly imagined fantasy setting. Wei Yin enters a powerful noble house as a concubine in hopes of saving her starving family, only to find herself trapped in a palace on the brink of civil war. In a world where poetry shapes magical power yet women are forbidden to read, she secretly learns the art that could change everything. To survive the court’s dangers, she must craft a spell strong enough to alter the fate of a nation.

(Forbidden knowledge, peasant-to-palace, cruel prince, court intrigue, civil war, generational trauma, victim-to-villain)

Godstorm Solitaire Townsend (15 January 2026)

Imagines an alternate Roman Empire powered by oil and ancient forces. When the child she secretly loves is abducted during a devastating supernatural storm, former gladiator Arrow must return to the brutal skills she once tried to leave behind. Her search leads her through dangerous cities, forbidden magic, and the edges of a collapsing world. Along the way, she must decide whether she is still a weapon—or something far more powerful.

(Empire, colonialism, social injustice, climate change, motherhood, rebellion)

The Elsewhere Express Samantha Sotto Yambao (20 January 2026)

Follows a magical train that appears only to those searching for meaning. When grieving songwriter Raya unexpectedly finds herself aboard, she encounters a surreal world of impossible landscapes and fellow travelers seeking purpose. As she grows closer to a mysterious artist named Q, strange events reveal that something dangerous has also boarded the train. Their journey soon becomes a race to uncover the truth before the magic of the Elsewhere Express is destroyed.

(Grief, loneliness, purpose, human connection, hope)

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Mystery, Thriller & Suspense

For readers who enjoy unraveling secrets, chasing clues, and turning pages long past bedtime.

Mayhem on the Marzipan Express Rebecca Connolly (6 January 2026)

(#2 of Claire Walker Mysteries series)

Claire Walker was expecting a romantic getaway aboard Scotland’s famous steam train, not a murder investigation between dessert courses. When a body turns up on the Marzipan Express, suspicion quickly lands on celebrity chef Alan Gables. But Claire’s instincts tell her something about the case doesn’t quite add up. Between jealous reporters, suspicious passengers, and a trail of secrets from the past, Claire must untangle the truth before this sweet vacation turns completely sour.

(Suspense, cozy mystery, heroine sleuth)

The Devil in the Details Vicki Delany (6 January 2026)

(#11 in Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mysteries series)

Gemma Doyle is ready to celebrate her best friend Jayne’s birthday with a lively party by the sea—just days before Jayne’s wedding. But the festivities take a dark turn when a guest’s body is discovered floating below the deck. With tensions high, exes stirring up drama, and Jayne’s fiancé suddenly a prime suspect, the celebration quickly becomes a race to uncover the truth. If Gemma can’t solve the mystery in time, Jayne’s wedding day might end in scandal instead of happily ever after.

(Suspense, cozy mystery, heroine sleuth)

Anatomy of an Alibi Ashley Elston (13 January 2026)

Aubrey Price has spent years searching for answers about the night that changed her life forever. When she teams up with Camille Bayliss to secretly swap places for twelve hours, the plan seems simple: uncover Camille’s husband’s secrets and expose the truth. But everything unravels when Ben Bayliss is found murdered the very next morning. Now both women need an airtight alibi—but only one of them truly has it. And in a deadly game of lies and deception, trusting the wrong person could destroy them both.

(Psychological thriller, suspense, swapped identities, family secrets, small-town drama)

My Husband’s Wife Alice Feeney (20 January 2026)

When artist Eden Fox returns home from a morning run, she finds a stranger living in her house—and her husband insisting the woman is his wife. As Eden struggles to prove her own identity, another story unfolds months earlier with Birdy, a woman who inherits the same mysterious home after a life-changing diagnosis. As secrets from the past surface and the truth begins to twist in unexpected ways, two women’s lives become dangerously intertwined in a puzzle where nothing—and no one—is quite what it seems.

(Psychological suspense, thriller, marriage/deception)

The Witching Hours Heather Graham (27 January 2026)

(#1 in The Crows series)

Psychic investigator Skye McMahon is called in to help solve a chilling case involving a murdered man and the disappearance of two children. As her visions begin revealing disturbing images tied to Salem’s past and present, Skye and fellow investigator Zachary Erickson uncover whispers of cults, secrets, and something far more sinister. To find the missing before it’s too late, Skye may have to trust visions that seem almost impossible to believe.

(Paranormal romance, thriller, forced proximity, spooky/gothic atmosphere)

The Right to Remain James Grippando (6 January 2026)

(#20 in Jack Swyteck series)

Defense attorney Jack Swyteck's client, accused of murder, refuses to speak to anyone—not the court, his lawyer, or even his loved ones. As Jack digs deeper into the man’s past, he begins uncovering lies, hidden histories, and a disturbing possibility: his client may be protecting someone else. With the stakes rising and time running out, Jack must uncover the truth before silence becomes a death sentence.

(Legal thriller, mystery, suspense)

No One Would Do What the Lamberts Have Done Sophie Hannah

(20 January 2026)

When a sudden accusation threatens their beloved dog Champ, the Lambert family finds themselves facing a nightmare that could tear their lives apart. Rather than accept the consequences, they make a choice most people would never consider. In a tense and emotional story, the Lamberts discover that loyalty can demand extraordinary sacrifices.

(Murder mystery, crime fiction, psychological thriller, loyalty, family)

The Storm Rachel Hawkins (6 January 2026)

When a true crime writer arrives to investigate the infamous case of Lo Bailey, the woman long accused of killing her lover during a storm, the town’s secrets begin to stir again. As a new hurricane approaches, the past and present collide in dangerous ways. Soon it becomes clear that some truths can be as destructive as the storms themselves.

(Small-town secrets, scandal, coastal gothic)

It Should Have Been You Andrea Mara (13 January 2026)

After accidentally posting a gossipy message about a neighbor in the wrong group chat, Susan finds herself at the center of spreading rumors and rising tensions. When a woman with the same address is later found murdered, Susan realizes the killer may have been looking for her. Now she must untangle the truth before the next mistake becomes fatal.

(Secrets, suburban life, social media)

Dead in the Water John Marrs (20 January 2026)

After surviving a near-drowning, Damon begins seeing a vivid vision of a dead boy—one he doesn’t remember encountering in real life. Convinced the memory holds the key to something buried in his past, he becomes obsessed with recreating the experience to unlock the truth. But chasing lost memories may lead him into far darker waters than he ever expected.

(Psychological thriller, near-death experience, shifting perspectives/multiple narrators, damaged memory, biology vs. fate)

Inside Man John McMahon (13 January 2026)

(#2 in Head Cases [PAR Unit] series)

Centers on a brilliant but unconventional FBI unit tasked with solving the bureau’s most puzzling cases. When an informant connected to a militia investigation is murdered, the team discovers the crime may be linked to a far more disturbing pattern of deaths. As clues begin tying together a potential serial killer and a larger conspiracy, the investigators must untangle a web of secrets with very little to go on. For a unit built on solving puzzles, this may be their most dangerous challenge yet.

(Police procedural, mystery, thriller)

Cross Your Heart and Hope He Dies Jenny Elder Moke (20 January 2026)

Ambitious publishing executive Juliette Winters believes she’s secured the deal of a lifetime—until the memoirist behind it suddenly dies and the manuscript disappears. Determined to uncover the truth, she teams up with an unexpectedly charming doctor and dives into the secrets of an elite country club. But with bodies piling up and suspicion turning her way, solving the mystery may be the only way to save her career—and her life.

(Cozy mystery, romantic comedy, humor, suspense, 'opposites attract' dynamic)

The Case of the Murdered Muckraker Rob Osler (27 January 2026)

(#2 in Harriet Morrow Investigates series)

Transports readers to Chicago at the turn of the twentieth century. Young detective Harriet Morrow is determined to prove herself as the first woman operative at the Prescott Agency when she’s assigned to investigate the murder of a journalist exposing political corruption. Going undercover in the city’s immigrant communities, Harriet uncovers a web of secrets that reaches far beyond a single crime. With danger closing in, she must rely on her instincts to expose a killer who is always one step ahead.

(Independent female sleuth, framed/innocent suspect, unmasking corrupt officials, atmospheric historical setting, 'secret life' romance)

Wildwood Amy Pease (6 January 2026)

(#2 in Northwoods series)

When an undercover informant disappears and evidence points to murder, Eli North is drawn into a case that reveals the hidden criminal networks beneath his quiet Wisconsin community. With the arrival of an FBI agent and pressure mounting, the investigation begins unraveling dangerous truths. As loyalties fracture, Eli must decide how much he’s willing to risk to bring the truth to light.

(Crime thriller, police procedural, addiction, loneliness, PTSD)

The Method Matthew Quirk (20 January 2026)

When Anna Vaughn’s best friend disappears after a suspicious encounter, she discovers the trail may lead into a world of spies and powerful elites. Partnering with an FBI agent, Anna must use the skills she learned for film roles to infiltrate a dangerous conspiracy. But in a mission without scripts or second takes, survival depends on how convincing her performance can be.

(Unlikely heroine, acting as espionage, shady conspiracy, reluctant agent/handler relationship, hidden secret/past trauma, twisty suspense)

Wreck Your Heart Lori Rader-Day (6 January 2026)

When Dahlia “Doll” Devine’s estranged mother reappears after decades apart, long-buried family wounds begin to reopen. Soon after, a young woman searching for her missing mother arrives with a story that doesn’t quite add up. As secrets from the past collide with a suspicious death, Dahlia finds herself drawn into a mystery that could change everything she thought she knew about her family.

(Family secrets, betrayal, forgiveness, crime/mystery)

Monster in the Moonlight Annelise Ryan (27 January 2026)

(#4 in Monster Hunter Mystery series)

When a brutal killing in rural Wisconsin appears to bear the marks of a legendary creature known as the Beast of Bray Road, fear spreads quickly through the community. Cryptozoologist Morgan Carter is called in to investigate whether the folklore might hold a grain of truth. But as she digs deeper, it becomes clear that the real danger may not be the monster everyone fears.

(Skeptical believer, small-town legends, overarching conspiracy, animal companion, cozy mystery 'with a bite')

A Box Full of Darkness Simone St. James (20 January 2026)

Decades after their little brother vanished during a childhood game, the Esmie siblings are still haunted by the terrifying events that drove them away from home. When their brother suddenly reappears, they’re drawn back to the town they tried to forget. But uncovering the truth behind what happened may awaken something darker that has been waiting all along.

(Sibling dynamics, shared trauma, malevolent spirits, supernatural thriller, horror, mystery)

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Literary & Contemporary Fiction

Stories that linger a little longer in the heart.

The Last of Earth Deepa Anappara (13 January 2026)

An Indian surveyor working for the British Empire and a determined English explorer both set out on dangerous journeys into a forbidden land, each driven by personal ambitions and hidden motives. As their paths cross in the treacherous mountains, survival becomes as much about confronting their pasts as navigating the landscape. It’s a sweeping story of exploration, colonial ambition, friendship, and the marks people hope to leave on the world.

(Historical adventure, colonial history, exploration, survival, literary fiction)

Is This a Cry for Help? Emily Austin (13 January 2026)

A darkly funny and emotionally honest story about loneliness, mental health, and human connection. When a woman struggling with isolation begins reaching out in unexpected ways, the lines between vulnerability and survival blur. As her relationships shift and secrets surface, she must decide whether asking for help will save her or unravel everything she’s built. Austin blends sharp humor with raw honesty in this intimate look at the messy ways people try to heal.

(Mental health, dark humor, loneliness, found connection, contemporary fiction)

Lost Lambs Madeline Cash (13 January 2026)

Follows a group of people grappling with faith, belonging, and the weight of personal choices. As their lives intersect in unexpected ways, each must confront the beliefs and relationships that shaped them. Secrets, guilt, and quiet longing ripple through their connections, forcing them to reconsider what redemption might look like. It’s a thoughtful literary exploration of identity, morality, and the search for meaning.

(Literary fiction, faith and doubt, identity, interconnected lives)

The Briars Sarah Crouch (13 January 2026)

When a shocking event shakes the town, long-simmering tensions and hidden histories begin to surface. As relationships strain under suspicion and grief, the truth proves far more complicated than anyone expected. It’s a haunting story about loyalty, betrayal, and the fragile bonds that hold communities together.

(Small-town secrets, psychological drama, family tension, suspense)

When We Were Brilliant Lynn Cullen (20 January 2026)

Explores the complicated relationships between ambition, friendship, and the passage of time. As former companions reconnect and reflect on the choices that shaped their lives, old wounds and long-buried truths rise to the surface. What once seemed like brilliance now carries the weight of regret and possibility. Cullen’s story examines how memory, love, and ambition continue to shape who we become.

(Friendship, memory, past vs present, emotional drama)

Darkrooms Rebecca Hannigan (13 January 2026)

When hidden histories begin to emerge, the characters must confront truths long kept in the shadows. Relationships strain as past choices collide with present realities. Hannigan’s novel explores the ways memory and creativity illuminate both beauty and pain.

(Family secrets, art and creativity, memory, literary fiction)

This Is Where the Serpent Lives Daniyal Mueenuddin (13 January 2026)

Through richly drawn characters and intersecting lives, the novel explores ambition, loyalty, and the consequences of long-held secrets. As relationships shift and tensions rise, the cost of power becomes increasingly clear. It’s a layered literary portrait of people navigating fragile social structures and personal desires.

(Literary fiction, power and class, moral conflict, social commentary)

Meet the Newmans Jennifer Niven (6 January 2026)

As unexpected revelations shake their relationships, each member of the Newman family must confront the truths they’ve avoided for years. What follows is a deeply emotional story about forgiveness, identity, and the complicated bonds that hold families together. Niven explores the messy, heartfelt realities of love and belonging.

(Family drama, secrets, forgiveness, contemporary fiction)

Discipline Larissa Pham (20 January 2026)

As the characters navigate love, ambition, and the pressures of creative life, they must confront the expectations placed on them by others and themselves. The story explores how discipline can shape both freedom and constraint. Pham blends introspection and sharp cultural observation in this layered literary novel.

(Art and identity, ambition, relationships, literary fiction)

Crux Gabriel Tallent (20 January 2026)

Follows characters caught at the intersection of love, survival, and moral choice. As their lives become increasingly entangled, the consequences of past actions begin to ripple outward. The novel explores how people confront the moments that define them and the difficult decisions that shape their futures. Tallent crafts a tense and emotionally charged story about responsibility and redemption.

(Moral dilemmas, survival, emotional drama, literary fiction)

Missing Sam Thrity Umrigar (27 January 2026)

When a loved one disappears, those left behind must navigate the uncertainty and heartbreak that follow. As secrets surface and relationships shift, the characters confront what it truly means to hold on—or let go. Umrigar’s story is a moving portrait of love, resilience, and healing.

(Grief, family relationships, emotional journey, literary fiction)

The Sea Child Linda Wilgus (20 January 2026)

When the past resurfaces in unexpected ways, the characters must face buried memories and complicated relationships. As the tides of truth begin to shift, they discover that healing often requires confronting what was left unsaid. It’s a reflective story about belonging, family, and the pull of home.

(Family secrets, coastal setting, memory, literary fiction)

The Seven Daughters of Dupree Nikesha Elise Williams (27 January 2026)

A sweeping story about family legacy, sisterhood, and generational secrets. When the lives of seven women connected by blood and history intertwine, the truth about their shared past begins to emerge. As old wounds reopen, the sisters must confront the legacy they’ve inherited and decide what kind of future they want to build. It’s a powerful exploration of identity, resilience, and family ties.

(Family saga, sisterhood, generational secrets, literary fiction)

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International & Translated Fiction

A reminder that wonderful stories are being written all over the world.

The Old Fire Elisa Shua Dusapin Translated by Aneesa Abbas Higgins (13 January 2026)

When a woman returns to visit her aging grandparents, small moments begin revealing long-buried tensions and unspoken histories. As conversations unfold and memories surface, she is forced to reconsider the past that shaped her family. It’s an intimate story about heritage, identity, and the lingering warmth—and weight—of old relationships.

(Family history, quiet literary fiction, generational memory, identity)

Two Women Living Together Kim Hana & Hwang Sunwoo Translated by Gene Png (20 January 2026)

When two women choose to share a home and their daily lives, their arrangement sparks conversations about relationships, gender roles, and what fulfillment really looks like. Through humor and candid reflection, the book examines companionship in a changing world. It’s a thoughtful portrait of friendship as a powerful form of connection.

(Friendship, modern relationships, slice-of-life, social commentary)

A Midnight Pastry Shop Called Hwawoldang Lee Onhwa (13 January 2026)

When weary visitors find their way to the mysterious late-night bakery after dark, the pastries served there seem to offer more than simple comfort. As each guest shares their story, the quiet magic of the bakery begins to change their lives in unexpected ways. It’s a cozy, heartfelt tale about healing, connection, and second chances.

(Magical realism, cozy atmosphere, healing journeys, found connection)

Steppe Oksana Vasyakina Translated by Elina Alter (20 January 2026)

A lyrical and deeply personal novel about grief, identity, and memory. As a woman travels across the vast Russian landscape to honor her mother’s final wishes, she reflects on their complicated relationship and the experiences that shaped her life. The journey becomes both physical and emotional, uncovering stories of love, loss, and survival. Vasyakina’s writing creates a powerful meditation on mourning and belonging.

(Grief, mother-daughter relationship, literary fiction, introspection)

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Science Fiction and Speculative

Exploring the edges of science, society, and imagination.

Scavengers Kathleen Boland (13 January 2026)

Imagines a future where survival depends on resourcefulness and uneasy alliances. In a world reshaped by catastrophe, communities cling to what remains while scavengers venture into dangerous territory searching for supplies. When a new discovery threatens the fragile balance between groups, old rivalries and hidden motives rise to the surface. It’s a tense speculative story about survival, power, and the cost of rebuilding a broken world.

(Post-apocalyptic survival, dystopian future, found alliances, speculative fiction)

Hollow Celina Myers (13 January 2026)

When unsettling events begin haunting a small town, one woman finds herself drawn into a mystery that blurs the boundary between reality and nightmare. As she searches for answers, dark secrets lurking beneath the town’s quiet surface begin to emerge. Myers crafts a chilling story about fear, folklore, and confronting the unknown.

(Supernatural horror, small-town mystery, folklore, psychological suspense)

City of Others Jared Poon (13 January 2026)

Envisions a futuristic metropolis shaped by shifting power structures and technological change. As different factions struggle to control the city’s future, unlikely alliances begin forming among those determined to challenge the status quo. Through multiple perspectives, the novel explores identity, belonging, and resistance in an evolving urban landscape. It’s a sharp speculative look at society, technology, and power.

(Futuristic city, political intrigue, technology and society, speculative fiction)

The Regicide Report Charles Stross (27 January 2026)

(#14 in Laundry Files series)

As strange forces begin influencing world events, investigators uncover a conspiracy with terrifying implications. Blending spy thriller tension with supernatural danger, the novel pushes its characters into a battle against forces they barely comprehend. It’s a darkly imaginative story where politics and the paranormal collide.

(Espionage thriller, cosmic horror, conspiracy, speculative fiction)

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Historical Fiction

Journeys into the lives and moments history left behind.

The Bookbinder’s Secret A. D. Bell (13 January 2026)

Intertwines past and present through the discovery of a hidden manuscript. As the story behind the mysterious text slowly unfolds, long-buried secrets from another era begin to surface. The novel explores how stories survive across generations and the power they hold over those who uncover them. It’s a thoughtful historical mystery about memory, legacy, and the enduring magic of books.

(Dual timelines, hidden manuscript, historical mystery, literary history)

Woman Down Colleen Hoover (13 January 2026)

Explores the emotional complexities of love, grief, and survival through a gripping character-driven narrative. When a woman’s life is upended by a devastating event, she must confront painful truths about her relationships and herself. As the past and present collide, the story reveals the resilience required to rebuild after loss. Hoover delivers a deeply emotional exploration of trauma and healing.

(Trauma and healing, emotional drama, relationships, survival)

Graceless Heart Isabel Ibañez (13 January 2026)

(#1 in The Spellbound Mystery quartet)

Set in a richly imagined world inspired by history and folklore, the novel follows characters navigating dangerous politics, hidden powers, and complicated loyalties. As alliances shift and secrets emerge, the cost of ambition becomes increasingly clear. Ibañez crafts a sweeping story filled with atmosphere, romance, and adventure.

(Historical fantasy, romance, political intrigue, magical elements)

Skylark Paula McLain (6 January 2026)

Brings history vividly to life through the experiences of a determined woman navigating a rapidly changing world. As she pursues independence and purpose, she must confront the expectations placed upon her by society. Through love, ambition, and resilience, her story unfolds against a richly detailed historical backdrop. McLain once again blends emotional storytelling with immersive history.

(Historical drama, women’s resilience, ambition, coming-of-age)

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Nonfiction, Memoir & Essays

Reflections on life, memory, and the world around us.

Homeschooled: A Memoir Stefan Merrill Block (6 January 2026)

Reflects on an unconventional upbringing and the complicated legacy of growing up outside traditional education. As the author examines the experiences that shaped his childhood, he grapples with questions of identity, family influence, and personal independence. Through thoughtful reflection and honesty, the memoir explores how early environments shape the people we become. It’s an intimate look at learning, belonging, and self-discovery.

(Memoir, unconventional upbringing, identity, family reflection)

Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage Belle Burden (13 January 2026)

Examination of the complexities of long-term relationships through the lens of the author's own marriage. As she reflects on love, distance, and personal growth, the memoir explores how two people can change while still remaining connected. Honest and introspective, the story captures both the struggles and the quiet strength found in enduring partnerships. It’s a thoughtful meditation on intimacy and commitment.

(Marriage memoir, relationships, personal growth, introspection)

Burn Down Master’s House Clay Cane (27 January 2026)

A powerful exploration of race, history, and cultural legacy. Through essays and research, Cane examines the enduring impact of systemic inequality and the narratives that shape American society. The book challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths while imagining a more equitable future. It’s a bold and thought-provoking work of cultural criticism.

(Social justice, cultural history, political commentary, essays)

Escape! Stephen Fishbach (27 January 2026)

Reflection on competition, strategy, and the psychology of survival through the lens of his experiences on reality television. Blending memoir with insight into game theory and human behavior, he explores what it means to outwit opponents and navigate complex social dynamics. The result is both entertaining and revealing. It’s a fascinating look at competition, decision-making, and the human instinct to win.

(Memoir, competition strategy, psychology, reality TV)

Half His Age Jennette McCurdy (20 January 2026)

Drawing on her experiences in the entertainment industry and beyond, McCurdy explores power dynamics, vulnerability, and the challenges of redefining oneself. McCurdy’s writing blends humor, honesty, and emotional depth. The result is a reflective and compelling memoir about finding independence and voice.

(Celebrity memoir, relationships, self-discovery, personal reflection)

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Younger Readers, Graphic & Cross-Genre

Adventures told through bold art and playful storytelling.

George Falls Through Time Ryan Collett (20 January 2026)

A curious young hero goes on an unforgettable adventure through history. When George unexpectedly finds himself traveling across different eras, he must learn to navigate unfamiliar worlds while trying to find his way home. Along the way, he encounters fascinating moments from the past and discovers his own courage. It’s a fun, fast-paced story filled with discovery and imagination.

(Time travel, middle grade adventure, historical exploration, humor)

Finn’s Epic Fails Phil Earle (29 January 2026)

Finn’s plans rarely go the way he expects, but each misadventure brings new lessons about friendship and resilience. Through embarrassing mishaps and surprising victories, Finn begins discovering who he really wants to be. It’s a relatable coming-of-age story filled with warmth and humor.

(Middle grade humor, friendship, coming-of-age, school life)

Clothes to Make You Smile Eric Darnell Pritchard, illustrated by Shannon Wright (13 January 2026)

celebrates creativity, identity, and the joy of self-expression. Through vibrant illustrations and playful storytelling, the book encourages young readers to embrace what makes them unique. Fashion becomes a joyful way to explore personality and confidence. It’s a colorful and uplifting story about being proudly yourself.

(Self-expression, creativity, picture book, identity)

Gumshoe Brenna Thummler (13 January 2026)

When a curious young detective begins investigating strange events in their community, clues lead to unexpected discoveries about friendship and courage. Thummler’s signature artwork adds warmth and atmosphere to the unfolding adventure. It’s a delightful graphic mystery perfect for young readers who love puzzles and imagination.

(Graphic novel mystery, young detective, adventure, friendship)

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What January Releases Are You Excited About?

This list is just the beginning and only a sampling of January's releases. January always brings a flurry of new stories into the world, and no single list can catch them all.

So tell us:

• Which of these books are already on your TBR?

• Did we miss a January release you’re excited about?

• Are there authors you always keep an eye on when a new year begins?

Leave your suggestions in the comments so we can add them to our ever-growing Bookwyrm reading pile. Half the joy of a reading community is watching our TBR piles grow together.

After all, every good bookwyrm knows...a hoard is best measured in books.

Until next time,

The Wyrm