David Bridges
Happy New Year, and here’s to an exciting year of new books! If “reading more” is one of your resolutions for 2025, we applaud your ambition! To help you get started on this literary journey, we’ve compiled a list of 42 must-read titles spanning the realms of sci-fi, horror, and fantasy. Whether you’re looking to dive into epic adventures or thrilling mysteries, there’s something here for every reader.
Discover New Adventures on January 7
Adrift in Currents Clean and Clear by Seanan McGuire
The latest addition to the acclaimed Wayward Children series, which has garnered both the Hugo and Nebula awards, takes readers on a whimsical journey featuring “giant turtles, impossible ships, and tidal rivers ridden by a Drowned Girl in search of a family.” An enchanting blend of adventure and profound themes awaits. (January 7)
The Capital of Dreams by Heather O’Neill
“A dark dystopian fairytale that explores the life of a girl caught between safety and loyalty in a war-torn idyllic country.” This story promises to be an emotional rollercoaster, blending fantasy with poignant social commentary. (January 7)
Cold Storage by Michael C. Grumley
In this gripping standalone near-future thriller, an army veteran finds himself on the run from a shadowy organization that resurrected him. This fast-paced narrative will keep you on the edge of your seat as he fights for survival. (January 7)
A Conventional Boy by Charles Stross
“In this captivating new adventure from the Laundry Files series, world-altering decisions hinge on the roll of twenty-sided dice.” This innovative plot twist will engage both gamers and fantasy lovers alike. (January 7)
The Dryad Storm by Laurie Forest
“As magical forces collide, Erthia stands on the brink of destruction in the thrilling finale of Laurie Forest’s epic Black Witch Chronicles. This conclusion is a must-read for fans seeking closure and excitement.” (January 7)
Immortal by Sue Lynn Tan
“A young ruler must navigate a treacherous alliance with the God of War, who is as magnetic as he is untrustworthy. This romantic fantasy is filled with dangerous secrets, forbidden magic, and a passion that could change everything.” (January 7)
Mother of Rome by Lauren J.A. Bear
“This powerful retelling of the Roman legend of Romulus and Remus focuses on the fierce woman whose sacrifices forged the foundation of history’s greatest empire.” This tale promises to blend history with compelling storytelling. (January 7)
A Sea of Unspoken Things by Adrienne Young
“A woman delves into the mystery of her twin brother’s death while grappling with the haunting ghosts of her past.” This emotional journey is bound to resonate with readers seeking depth and intrigue. (January 7)
The Starlight Heir by Amalie Howard (January 7)
In this romantasy, a bladesmith accepts a court invitation driven by her thirst for adventure. However, she finds herself entangled with the crown prince’s alluring half-brother, and her forbidden powers awaken, attracting the attention of a dark god. Expect a whirlwind of romance and danger.
Wake Up and Open Your Eyes by Clay McLeod Chapman
In this unsettling social horror narrative, a man and his nephew must navigate their escape from “a demonic possession epidemic” that spreads through those inundated with toxic media. This thought-provoking tale reflects on the impact of our digital consumption. (January 7)
Uncover New Realms on January 14
Aurora Fragment by Brian Shea and Raquel Byrnes
The Memory Bank techno-thriller series continues with this gripping entry; Detective Morgan Reed, plagued by the haunting memories of a deceased killer, is drawn to a troubled Alaskan town. This immersive narrative explores themes of memory and identity. (January 14)
Babylonia by Costanza Casati
This captivating tale merges myth and ancient history, giving a voice to Semiramis, the only female ruler of the Assyrian Empire, as it charts her compelling rise to power in a male-dominated society. Expect a rich exploration of cultural heritage. (January 14)
Daughter of Chaos by A.S. Webb
The Dark Pantheon Trilogy kicks off in ancient Greece, where a fisherman’s daughter discovers her magical powers, potentially the key to liberating humanity from oppressive gods. This tale promises a blend of adventure and mythology. (January 14)
Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor
In this innovative narrative described as a “book within a book,” a disabled Nigerian American woman writes a successful sci-fi novel but struggles to maintain control as her fame escalates. This heartfelt story delves into themes of identity, love, and the essence of humanity. (January 14)
Hammajang Luck by Makana Yamamoto
This debut science fiction novel blends elements of Ocean’s 8 and Blade Runner, presenting a swashbuckling love letter to Hawai’i, where characters are forced to find a new home while striving to create a better future. (January 14)
Heavenly Bodies by Imani Erriu
This enchanting romantasy series begins with a tale that intertwines mythology and shadow magic, forging an enemies-to-lovers romance destined to rewrite destiny. Expect a journey filled with passion and conflict. (January 14)
The Last Room on the Left by Leah Konen
In this twisty, addictive thriller, the caretaker of an isolated mountain hotel fights for her life and sanity against mounting threats. This page-turner promises to keep readers engaged until the very last twist. (January 14)
The Night Is Defying by Chloe C. Peñaranda
This second installment in the Nytefall trilogy unfolds in a world where history threatens to repeat itself, and star-crossed lovers must choose between their hearts and the fate of the world. Expect an emotional and thrilling ride. (January 14)
Strange Pictures by Uketsu, translated by Jim Rion
This best-selling Japanese novel offers an eerie, fresh take on mystery-horror, where a series of seemingly innocent pictures draws the protagonist into a web of unsolved mysteries and fractured psyches. Prepare for a chilling exploration of fear. (January 14)
Vow of the Shadow King by Sylvia Mercedes
Continuing the Bride of the Shadow King series, this romantasy follows Princess Faraine as she navigates her entrapment in the Shadow Realm with her new husband, King Vor, who remains hesitant to trust her despite their undeniable connection. (January 14)
Water Moon by Samantha Sotto Yambao
“A woman inherits a pawnshop where regrets can be sold, leading to a magical quest when a charming young physicist enters her life. This whimsical fantasy novel promises to enchant readers with its unique premise.” (January 14)
Waterblack by Alex Pheby
The concluding volume of the Cities of the Weft trilogy sees Nathan Treeves embrace his destiny as Master of Waterblack, the City of the Dead, while facing the God-Killer who is determined to claim him. This climactic showdown is bound to captivate fans. (January 14)
We Lived on the Horizon by Erika Swyler
This poignant narrative follows a bio-prosthetic surgeon and her personal AI as they become embroiled in a revolutionary movement. Expect a thought-provoking exploration of technology and humanity. (January 14)
Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix
Set in 1970s Florida, this tale unveils how an occult book on witchcraft ignites a strange and dangerous power among young women residing in a home for unwed pregnant teens. Prepare for a gripping story of empowerment and darkness. (January 14)
Engage with New Stories on January 21
Boudicca by P.C. Cast
“An epic, lusty, and magic-filled romantasy that chronicles the life of British warrior queen Boudicca.” Expect an exhilarating blend of adventure, romance, and historical intrigue. (January 21)
The Legend of Meneka by Kritika H. Rao
This fantasy tale, inspired by a famous Hindu mythology romance, follows a celestial dancer tasked with seducing a human sage. As she falls for him, she must navigate the complexities of loyalty versus love. (January 21)
Motheater by Linda H. Codega
In this nuanced queer fantasy set in Virginia’s Appalachian Mountains, the last witch of the Ridge must decide where her loyalties lie amid a fierce battle between industry and nature. This tale promises deep themes and rich character development. (January 21)
Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros
The Empyrean series continues as Violet leaves Basgiath War College and plunges into battle, driven by the need to protect her beloved dragons and the people she cherishes. Expect high-stakes adventure and emotional depth. (January 21)
The Rainfall Market by You Yeong-Gwang, translated by Slin Juno
“On the outskirts of Rainbow Town, an old, abandoned house holds a mysterious secret: send a letter detailing your misfortunes, and you might receive a ticket granting access to the enigmatic Rainfall Market, where life-altering choices await.” This intriguing premise invites readers into a world of magic and possibility. (January 21)
Strange Stones by Edward Lee and Mary SanGiovanni
“This story follows a horror convention attendee who makes the wrong choice and is cursed to a monstrous dimension teeming with Lovecraftian horrors.” Prepare for a wild ride through a blend of terror and dark humor. (January 21)
The Wind on Her Tongue by Anita Kopacz
This follow-up to Shallow Waters continues the Daughter of Three Waters trilogy, bringing to life Oya—the Yoruban weather deity—during the tumultuous 1870s America. Expect an enthralling blend of history and mythology. (January 21)
Explore New Titles on January 25
Those Fatal Flowers by Shannon Ives
“This epic adventure intertwines Greco-Roman mythology with the mystery of the vanished Roanoke colony, delving into themes of sapphic longing and female rage.” This tale promises to be both thought-provoking and thrilling. (January 25)
Delve into Mysteries on January 28
At the Bottom of the Garden by Camilla Bruce
“A murderess becomes the guardian of two unusual girls in this captivating gothic novel.” Expect a blend of mystery, suspense, and dark themes that will keep readers engrossed. (January 28)
At the Fount of Creation by Tobi Ogundirian
“The fate of the Orisha hangs in the balance in the climactic volume of the Guardians of the Gods duology.” This tale promises to deliver an epic conclusion filled with rich lore and vibrant storytelling. (January 28)
Gate to Kagoshima by Poppy Kuroki
In this historical romantasy, “A young Scottish woman finds herself magically transported to the last Samurai era, confronting ghosts of her ancestry and a love that defies the boundaries of time.” Prepare for an enchanting journey through history and romance. (January 28)
Old Soul by Susan Barker
“Part horror, part western, part thriller, Old Soul boldly explores predation, morality, and free will, as one man seeks to end a legacy of human devastation.” This genre-defying narrative promises to provoke thought and challenge perceptions. (January 28)
Our Winter Monster by Dennis Mahoney
“This chilling holiday horror story follows an unhappy couple running from
Ethan Carter
Brandon Fletcher
