Happy New Year, and happy new books! As 2026 begins, what better way to kick off the year than by diving into a fresh stack of sci-fi, fantasy, and horror books? January is brimming with exciting new titles that promise to take you on thrilling adventures and ignite your imagination. Here’s a peek at 42 new releases you won’t want to miss this month.
January 6
The Bloody Brick Road: A Wizard of Oz Retelling by Maude Royer
Step into a reimagined Oz—a world where horror lurks around every corner. This dystopian twist on L. Frank Baum’s classic tale may keep you up at night. (January 6)
A God of Countless Guises by Bradley P. Beaulieu
In a brutal game of ascension crafted by elder gods, contestants seek power through betrayal. This sequel to The Book of the Holt promises intense intrigue. (January 6)
A Monsoon Rising by Thea Guanzon
Get ready for magical twists and political drama as two hearts collide amid swirling storm clouds in this sequel to The Hurricane Wars. (January 6)
The Shop on Hidden Lane by Jayne Ann Krentz
Experience a blend of suspense and the paranormal as old familial grudges come to light in a conspiracy threatening the community. (January 6)
The Starseekers by Nicole Glover
Adventure awaits in this historical fantasy as magic intertwines with the space race, reminiscent of Indiana Jones with a twist of science. (January 6)
Through Gates of Garnet and Gold by Seanan McGuire
Follow a fan-favorite character as she navigates the world of the Wayward Children, where doors to adventure—and danger—await. (January 6)
January 13
The Book of Blood and Roses by Annie Summerlee
A vampire hunter goes undercover in a quirky university where love blooms unexpectedly between her and a mysterious roommate. (January 13)
Detour by Jeff Rake and Rob Hart
Join a shuttle crew as they return to a world that is not what they remember—a gripping exploration of loss and survival. (January 13)
The East Wind by Alexandria Warwick
Experience a magical romance that intertwines love with trials as two characters confront their pasts. This tale is poetic and heartfelt. (January 13)
Fire Sword and Sea by Vanessa Riley
This story reveals the truth behind the infamous 17th-century pirate Jacquotte Delehaye in a saga filled with adventure and heritage. (January 13)
Graceless Heart by Isabel Ibañez
Delve into a whimsical and romantic tale filled with magic and tension set in a perilous Florence. (January 13)
Ice by Jacek Dukaj, translated by Ursula Phillips
Travel through a Trans-Siberian landscape in this gripping thriller filled with political and existential battles. (January 13)
January 20
A Box Full of Darkness by Simone St. James
The haunting story of siblings lured back to their childhood home by the spirit of their long-lost brother will keep you on edge. (January 20)
The Elsewhere Express by Samantha Sotto Yambao
A whimsical journey on a train that leads to self-discovery adds a sprinkle of magic to ordinary life. (January 20)
The Friend of the Family by Dean Koontz
The touching story of a girl finding her purpose after escaping a carnival sideshow brings themes of family and love to the forefront. (January 20)
George Falls Through Time by Ryan Collett
Step into a world where modern anxieties clash with medieval realities in this refreshing narrative twist. (January 20)
The Poet Empress by Shen Tao
Experience desperation and love as a young woman fights to save her family using the power of spells and words. (January 20)
To Leave a Warrior Behind: The Life of Charles R. Saunders by Jon Tattrie
Learn about the extraordinary life of Charles R. Saunders and how he transformed the fantasy genre in this illuminating biography. (January 20)
Twelve Months by Jim Butcher
As Harry Dresden faces his toughest challenges yet, this latest entry in the iconic series explores themes of loss and resilience. (January 20)
January 27
Ballad of the Bone Road by A.C. Wise
In the enchanting city of Port Astor, a mix of fae magic and human intrigue awaits in a story where nothing is as it seems. (January 27)
Enchanting the Fae Queen by Stephanie Burgis
Uncover an unexpected romance between a fae queen and a general from an enemy empire in this lighthearted, charming narrative. (January 27)
Halcyon Years by Alastair Reynolds
This captivating murder mystery on a starship will immerse you in a world of suspense and exploration. (January 27)
Hearthspace by Stephen Baxter
Discover the secrets of a long-lost colony as humanity faces the unknown threats of its own making. (January 27)
Monster in the Moonlight by Annelise Ryan
A quiet rural lane becomes the backdrop for a shocking crime, where myth and reality blur into a thrilling mystery. (January 27)
On Sundays She Picked Flowers by Yah Yah Scholfield
In a Southern Gothic tale, a woman grapples with her past amidst ghosts in the woods. It’s eerie yet beautifully written. (January 27)
Passage to Tokyo by Poppy Kuroki
Return to 1920s Tokyo in a time of great change and impending tragedy, captured in this stunning narrative. (January 27)
The Regicide Report by Charles Stross
This thrilling series conclusion brings together magic, political intrigue, and an unusual antagonist. (January 27)
Silver & Blood by Jessie Mihalik
Join a fighter on a mission against mythical beasts and the magical adversities they face in this intriguing romantasy. (January 27)
Sister Svangerd and the Not Quite Dead by K.J. Parker
In this darkly humorous tale, Sister Svangerd faces off against a meddlesome princess in a challenge that tests all her wits. (January 27)
This House Will Feed by Maria Tureaud
Amidst Ireland’s Great Famine, a young woman uncovers dark secrets within a haunted manor in this captivating gothic tale. (January 27)
To Ride a Rising Storm by Moniquill Blackgoose
This epic sequel explores themes of independence and bravery as a young woman and her dragon fight for freedom. (January 27)
We Who Have No Gods by Liza Anderson
In a dangerous world where witches abound, a human must learn to survive in an explosive debut. (January 27)
The Wolf and the Crown of Blood by Elizabeth May
A unique bond forms between a princess and a weary god as they navigate a fragile alliance to restore their world. (January 27)
Curious about more upcoming releases? You can also check out the latest on your favorite franchises like Marvel, Star Wars, and Doctor Who. What fascinating books are you looking forward to reading this January? Let me know in the comments!