new fiction books january 2023

Beyond the Bookends

A Book Blog for Women and Moms who Love to Read

29 Most Anticipated New January 2023 Book Releases by Genre

Can you believe it is already 2023? The January 2023 book releases are the perfect mix of books for winter 2023. We know that we cannot possibly read all the books on this awesome list but, these are our most anticipated January new books.

Whether literary fiction is your thing or you love historical fiction, this list has a little something for everyone.

*Post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through links result in a small commission to us at no cost to you. Some books have been gifted. All opinions are our own.

Table of Contents

Most Anticipated January 2023 Book Releases: Fiction

Small World by Laura Zigman

Small World is a novel about sisterhood and hope. Joyce has been divorced for a year and is looking forward to being single when her newly divorced sister comes to live with her. Living together will force them to reconcile the loss of their sister years ago when she was just 10 and deal with their family history that has secrets.

The Bandit Queens by Parini Shroff

A young Indian woman finds the false rumors that she killed her husband surprisingly useful—until other women in the village start asking for her help getting rid of their own husbands—in this razor-sharp debut.

A Thousand Miles to Graceland by Kristen Mei Chase

Genre : Thriller

Plot: When Grace’s husband asks for a divorce, she has no excuse not to grant her mother her 70th birthday wish and take a road trip to Graceland. On the trip, Grace starts to understand her mother better, repair their relationship, and find a second chance at love.

Georgie, All Along by Kate Clayborn

Genre : Fiction

Plot: With writing Jasmine Guillory has described as “emotional and real,” the acclaimed author of  Love Lettering  and  Love at First  weaves stories both transporting and relatable – modern love stories that readers immediately identify with and take to heart. Wise and witty, threaded through with a complex, emotionally fulfilling romance, Kate Clayborn’s unforgettable new novel echoes with timely questions about love, career, reconciling with the past, and finding your way.

Ultimate List of Contemporary Fiction Novels to Love in 2024

For more contemporary fiction books like these, check out our ultimate list for dozens of recommendations.

Historical Fiction January 2023 Book Releases

The Mitford Affair by Marie Benedict

Genre : Historical Fiction

Plot: Probing the torrid political climate in the lead-up to World War II and the ways that seemingly sensible people can be sucked into radical action,  The Mitford Affair  follows Nancy’s valiant efforts to stop the Nazis from taking over Great Britain, and the complicated choices she must make between the personal and the political.

The Coronation Year by Jennifer Robson

Plot: The USA Today  bestselling author of  The Gown  returns with another enthralling and royal-adjacent historical novel—as the lives of three very different residents of London’s historic Blue Lion hotel converge in a potentially explosive climax on the day of Queen Elizabeth’s Coronation.

Love Historical Fiction? We do too! That’s why we created the Ultimate List of Historical Fiction carefully divided by time period.

Most anticipated january 2023 book releases: fantasy/ sci-fi.

Phaedra by Laura Shepperson

Genre : Fantasy

Plot: Debut novelist Laura Shepperson offers a powerful feminist retelling of Phaedra and her unyielding quest for justice, perfect for fans of Madeline Miller and Natalie Haynes.

Hell Bent by Leigh Bardugo

Plot: This is the much anticipated second book in the Alex Stern series (Ninth House) by best-selling author Leigh Bardugo. Alex is determined to Darlington out of purgatory even if it means the end of her time at Yale and her future at Lethe. This book is one of the January 2023 book releases I really hope to get my hands on!

The Minuscule Mansion of Myra Malone by Audrey Burges

Plot: Myra Malone blogs about a dollhouse mansion and has thousands of followers. But the mansion is more than it seems as rooms disappear and reappear overnight. Across the country, Alex is shocked to see someone recreating his bedroom. Alex and Myra correspond to trace the stories that entwine them.

Love Fantasy Books? We do too! That’s why we created the Ultimate List of Fantasy for Adults and the Ultimate List of YA fantasy !

Most anticipated thrillers and mysteries for january 2023.

The Villa by Rachel Hawkins

Plot: This is a gothic suspense novel set in an Italian villa. It is inspired by Fleetwood Mac, the Mansion murders, and Percy and Mary Shelley’s time with Lord Byron at a lake Geneva castle. Emily and Chess are reconnecting and spending a summer together at an Italian villa with a history that includes not only being the place of inspiration for art and music but the site of a murder as well. This is one of the January 2023 book releases we cannot wait to read.

Age of Vice by Deepti Kapoor

Plot: This fast-paced thrillers shifts through time and perspective in this story centered around corruption, romance, wealth, and violence. The Wadia family is loved, loathed, and feared and are at the center of this thrilling family saga.

Ghost 19 by Simone St. James

Genre : Thriller (Short Story)

Plot: From the best-selling author of The Book of Cold Cases comes a new short story about a women who is stuck inside her house. She spends the day looking out the window but cannot leave the house because of a ghost or her own madness. Jackie read and loved this Ghost Book and it is a perfect quick read in this list of January 2023 book releases.

Just The Nicest Couple by Mary Kubica

Plot: Nina has had a fight with her husband Jake so when he doesn’t come home, she thinks he is just calming down for a night. When he doesn’t return, Nina will not stop looking for him until she finds out what happened. Nina’s coworker, Lily, thinks she was the last person to see Jake before he went missing and when she confesses to her husband, they decide nobody can know. Two couples are linked in this twisty thriller.

Locust Lane by Stephen Amidon

Plot: For fans of  Mystic River  by Dennis Lehane and  Little Fires Everywhere  by Celeste Ng ,  Stephen Amidon’s  Locust Lane  is a taut and utterly propulsive story about the search for justice and the fault lines of power and influence in a seemingly idyllic town. Can anyone be trusted? We have this book from the January 2023 book releases on our list of books to read!

How to Sell a Haunted House by Grady Hendrix

Plot: I am so excited to read this book from the January 2023 book releases and think it will go perfectly on our haunted house book list. When Louise finds out her parents have died, she does not want to pack up the house of the people who loved her the most. She also does not want to ask her brother for help with the house. But, some houses do not want to be sold.

Finlay Donovan Jumps the Gun (Finlay Donovan #3) by Elle Cosimano

Genre : Mystery

Plot: From  USA Today  bestseller and Edgar Award nominee Elle Cosimano, comes  Finlay Donovan Jumps the Gun ―the hilarious and heart-pounding next installment in the beloved Finlay Donovan series.

Dating. Diapers. And dodging bullets. Who said single moms can’t have fun?

Exiles by Jane Harper

Plot: Aaron Falk is a Federal Investigator headed to Southern Australia for a christening. When Kim’s daughter makes a plea to help find Kim on the one-year anniversary of the day she went missing, Aaron beings his investigation that may show cracks in Kim’s friend group. What happened to Kim Gillespie? Harper’s book, The Survivors kept us guessing until the last page. I am sure this mystery from our list of January 2023 book releases will not disappoint.

Love Thrillers? We created The Ultimate List of Best Thriller Books carefully divided by sub-genre. These will definitely keep you on your toes.

Romance book releases for january 2023.

Highly Suspicious and Unfairly Cute by Talia Hibbert

Genre : Romance

Plot: From the best-selling author of the Brown Sisters Trilogy comes this new rom-com. Bradley Graeme is a football player, top of his class, and managing his OCD. Celine is a content creator/ conspiracy theorist who has a ton of followers but isn’t cool enough to sit at the popular kids table. The two used to be best friends and haven’t spoken in years. When they find themselves forced to work as a team in a survival course in the woods, they might find a whole new type of relationship.

Lunar Love by Lauren Kung Jessen

Plot: Olivia is excited to take over her grandmother’s matchmaking business which is based on the traditional Chinese zodiac. When she finds out that La’s most eligible bachelor has taken this idea and turned it into an app, Liv is furious. The two go head to head in this enemies-to-lovers romance by a debut author.

A Guide to Being Just Friends by Sophie Sullivan

Plot: Hailey Sharp has one goal and she doesn’t want any distractions. Work is what is important. Wes does not want a relationship because they all end badly. When the two meet, they start a friendship because that is all it can be. We loved How to Love Your Neighbor and think this romance from our list of January 2023 Book Releases will be a great romance.

Make a Wish by Helena Hunting

Plot: Harley Spark has tried to move on from the time she nearly kissed the widowed father of the girl she nannied. Now, seven years later, Gavin Rhodes and his 9-year-old daughter come to spark house for a princess-themed party, and Harley is forced to deal with her error from those years ago. Only it seems that Gavin is oblivious to her inner turmoil. Helena Hunting’s Starry-Eyed Love is on our list of Hot Office Romances You Need to Read. And we are sure this book from January 2023 Book Releases is one you will not want to miss.

For more books like these, check out our Holiday Hub with all things Valentine’s Day .

Is romance your favorite genre we created the ultimate list of romances carefully divided by sub-genre so you can find your next favorite read., non-fiction: best january 2023 book releases.

The Spare by Prince Harry The Duke of Sussex

Genre : Non-Fiction

Plot: Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex is telling his story in his words. The entire world saw William and Harry walk behind their mother’s coffin at the funeral of Diana, Princess of Wales. But never before have we heard how the lives of her sons have continued since. This is that story and we have already pre-ordered a copy. This is the book from the January 2023 Book Releases that Kirsten is most looking forward to reading. If you love all things royal, check out our Royal Reads: Ultimate List of 42 Books about Royalty.

Code Name Blue Wren: The True Story of America’s Most Dangerous Female Spy and the Sister She Betrayed by Jim Popkin

Plot: This is the true story of Ana Montes, an officer at the Defense Intelligence Agency, and double agent working for Cuba. Her father was a US Army colonel and bother her brother and sister-in-law were FBI agents. Her sister also worked for the FBO. This is the ultimate story of betrayal.

The Nazi Conspiracy by Brad Meltzer and Josh Mencsh

Plot: From best-selling author, Josh Meltzer comes a true story about the nazi plot to assassinate FDR, Stalin, and Churchill during WWII. This assassination would have changed history. If you want to read more WWII books , you can check out our list.

Best YA January 2023 Book Releases

The Love Match by Priyanka Taslim

Genre : YA Romance

Plot: To all the Boys I’ve Loved Before meets Pride and Prejudice in this rom-com. Zahra Khan is basically a Bangladeshi princess but her mother needs to secure her a match for the family’s financial security. When Zahra’s feelings become mixed up between who she is supposed to be with and who she wants to be with, she must choose.

Stolen Heir by Holly Black

Genre : YA Fantasy

Plot: Return to the opulent world of Elfhame, filled with intrigue, betrayal, and dangerous desires, with this first book of a captivating new duology from the #1  New York Times  bestselling author Holly Black. 

A runaway queen. A reluctant prince. And a quest that may destroy them both.

Queen Among the Dead by Lesley Livingston

Plot: This is a Celtic YA fantasy inspired by the first queen of Ireland. Neve is the King’s youngest daughter and Ronan is a Druid’s apprentice who makes a living selling stolen spells. The king has outlawed magic which is horded by his priests. Now, Neve must take her place at the thrown and rely on Ronan for help.

The Fraud Squad by Kyla Zhao

Genre : YA Fiction

Plot: Samantha Song has dreamed of becoming part of Singapore’s social scene but her dream is impossible as a working-class woman. With the help of two friends, Samantha borrows designer clothes to infiltrate the elite but will her fraud be discovered and end everything she is working toward?

Begin Again by Emma Lord

Plot: This is a YA romance about finding yourself, finding love, and starting over. Andie Rose has a plan and she intends to follow it through but, even the best plans can be set off course and soon, Andie learns that sometimes going off course may be for the best.

The Davenports by Krystal Marquis

Genre : YA Historical Fiction Romance

Plot: The YA Historical fiction is inspired by the life of C.R Patterson and his family. Set in Chicago in 1910, the story is about the Davenports, one of the few Black families of immense wealth. This is the story of four young Black women navigating life and love.

We LOVE to support independent bookstores. You can shop our entire list of Books Becoming Movies and TV Shows on bookshop.org

What is your most anticipated january 2023 book release, for more new release books like these, check out our november 2022 and december 2022 book releases as well.

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Jackie is the mother of three children and a Speech-Language Pathologist who uses her love of books to create language-based learning opportunities in her speech therapy practice and with her own children. Her 20+ years of experience in regular and special education classrooms ensures the website content is relevant and informative. She started this website with Kirsten to share their passion for literacy with other moms and kids.

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The Complete List of 2023 Book Releases

Looking for something good to read? Take a look at all the books published in 2023 to find amazing new 2023 book releases to add to your reading list.

I am easily distracted by new releases. 

They’re so shiny and full of promise. With book jackets describing thrilling mysteries and brilliant literary prose, I believe my next great read is just around the corner.

So I can drool over the new books out, I keep a running list of all the upcoming releases .

Every month, I scour through publication lists, searching for intriguing titles. And every month, I take off the titles that have already been published.

Then I collect them all here, on a list of books published in 2023.

Now you can peruse through all the 2023 book releases to discover new titles you can buy right now.

To be thorough, I’ve included all the new books released in 2023 that I’ve mentioned on the blog. Not to overwhelm, I’ve limited myself to a short blurb about each book.

If you want to learn more about any title, click any of the links following the description. You can read my review (if I’ve read it), read more about the book’s details, add it to your Goodreads to-read list, or purchase it on Amazon.

Go ahead. Browse through my list of 2023 book releases. I guarantee you’ll spot something that intrigues you.

Don’t Miss a Thing

January 2023 Upcoming Book Releases

The Bandit Queens by Parini Shroff

Contemporary Fiction January 3, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

An Indian woman doesn’t mind the rumors that she killed off her deadbeat husband until women coming seeking her “expert” advice.

The Villa by Rachel Hawkins

Mystery & Thriller January 3, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

While on a girls’ trip, a woman tries to solve a long-ago murder at an Italian villa that sparked a bestselling horror novel.

The Stolen Heir by Holly Black

Fantasy January 3, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

In a new Elfhame duology, Jude’s brother Oak embarks on a dangerous quest with the changeling queen Suren.

Age of Vice by Deepti Kapoor

A crime thriller mixed with an epic family drama of a wealthy Indian playboy, his family’s servant, and a woman caught in between.

The House in the Pines by Ana Reyes

A woman begins to suspect there was more to her best friend’s death in high school and returns home to seek answers.

Queen of Thieves by Beezy Marsh

Historical Fiction January 3, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A pregnant young woman finds herself caught between two rival crime bosses in post-World War II London.

Sam by Allegra Goodman

The coming-of-age story of a girl who loves to climb trees but begins to doubt herself as she’s caught between her mother’s plan and her father’s inattention.

Code Name Blue Wren by Jim Popkin

Nonfiction January 3, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

The lives of two sisters – one who hunted Cuban spies and one who became Cuba’s most deadliest agent against the United States.

Good for a Girl by Lauren Fleshman

Nonfiction January 10, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A championship female distance runner shares her journey and shows how competitive sports are failing women and girls.

Spare by Prince Harry

A tell-all memoir from the second son of King Charles III and his first wife, Diana, Princess of Wales.

All the Dangerous Things by Stacy Willingham

Mystery & Thriller January 10, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A woman with crippling insomnia turns to a true crime podcaster to help her solve the disappearance of her toddler.

Hell Bent by Leigh Bardugo

Fantasy January 10, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Sequel to Ninth House . Alex Stern must dive into the society’s deepest secrets to rescue Darlington from puragtory.

The Nazi Conspiracy by Brad Meltzer and Josh Mensch

The Nazi plot to assassinate President Roosevelt, Joseph Stalin and Winston Churchill during their historic meeting in Iran in 1943.

The In-Between by Hadley Vlahos

Hospice nurse Hadley Vlahos shows palliative care teaches as much about how to live your life as how to die.

Lunar Love by Lauren Kung Jessen

Romance January 10, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A Chinese matchmaker makes a bet with a competing dating app developer that whoever finds the other a perfect match will concede.

What Lies in the Woods by Kate Alice Marshall

Mystery & Thriller January 17, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

As children, their testimony sent a serial killer to jail. Except they lied, and one of them now wants to come clean.

Locust Lane by Stephen Amidon

Suspicions for a teen’s death in a wealthy New England town fall on three teenagers whose parents are willing to do anything to protect their kids.

Independence by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

Historical Fiction January 17, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Three sisters are caught up in India’s partition when one of them falls in love with a Muslim man.

How to Sell a Haunted House by Grady Hendrix

Horror January 17, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Estranged siblings try to sell their childhood home when strange things begin to happen.

Master Slave Husband Wife by Ilyon Woo

Nonfiction January 17, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A bold daring escape from slavery by a husband and wife where she dresses as an eldery white man and pretends he is her slave.

The Mitford Affair by Marie Benedict

As WWII breaks out, novelist Nancy Mitford becomes suspicious that her sisters are in league with the Germans.

The Reunion by Kayla Olson

Romance January 17, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Twenty years after he betrayed her, a child tv star reunites with her on-screen love interest for a tv reunion and possible reboot.

Georgie, All Along by Kate Clayborn

Romance January 24, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

When she returns to her small hometown, a woman tries to fulfill the dreams from her teenage diary with the help of the handsome town hermit.

Exiles by Jane Harper

Mystery & Thriller January 31, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Federal Investigator Aaron Falk returns to investigate the disappearance of a mother in South Australian wine country.

Maame by Jessica George

Contemporary Fiction January 31, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

When Maddie moves out on her own, she begins to learn the joys and perils of putting her heart on the line and begins to understand her unconventional family.

River Sing Me home by Eleanor Shearer

Historical Fiction January 31, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

When all the slaves in Barbados are emancipated in 1834, Rachel decides to leave, searching for her five children who were sold away.

Save for Later

February 2023 Upcoming Book Releases

Someone Else’s Shoes by Jojo Moyes

Contemporary Fiction February 7, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A new divorcee struggling to cope when her husband cuts her off financially switches gym bags with a struggling mom finds confidence when trying on the other’s expensive heels.

The House of Eve by Sadeqa Johnson

Historical Fiction February 7, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

In 1950, a Black woman struggling to have a baby crosses paths with a teenage girl whose taboo love affair has derailed her chance to go to college.

Code Name Sapphire by Pam Jenoff

In 1942, a resistance fighter must decide what she will sacrifice after her mistake gets her cousin’s family arrested.

Cold People by Tom Rob Smith

Science Fiction February 7, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

When Earth is invaded, the survivors try to build a society that will survive the subzero temperatures of Antarctica.

On the Savage Side by Tiffany McDaniel

Contemporary Fiction February 14, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

An identical twin must confront the trauma of her childhood to keep her sister safe when a serial killer plagues their small Ohio town.

The Housemaid’s Secret by Freida McFadden

Mystery & Thriller February 20, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Sequel to The Housemaid . At her new job, Millie must decide how best to protect Mrs. Garrick without revealing her own secrets.

I Have Some Questions For You by Rebecca Makkai

Mystery & Thriller February 21, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A podcaster returns to her high school boarding school and begins to wonder if the police arrested the right person in the murder of her classmate decades ago.

The Porcelain Moon by Janie Chang

Historical Fiction February 21, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Near the end of WWI in France, a Chinese woman fleeing her family befriends a French woman whose secrets force them into a terrible decision.

Two Weeks Notice by Amy Porterfield

Nonfiction February 21, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Online marketing expert Amy Porterfield shows you how to quit your corporate job and fulfill your dream of owning your own business.

Stars in an Italian Sky by Jill Santopolo

Historical Fiction February 28, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

The passionate love affair between an Italian couple in 1946 leads to a shocking secret unburied by a modern-day couple.

The Crane Husband by Kelly Barnhill

Fantasy February 28, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A teenage girl must do whatever it takes to protect her family when her mother falls into the thrall of a crane.

The Angel Maker by Alex North

Mystery & Thriller February 28, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A detective’s investigation of the murder of a professor leads her to suspect the case is connected to a teenager’s attack and to a serial killer said to be able to predict the future.

A Day of Fallen Night by Samantha Shannon

A standalone prequel to The Priory of the Orange Tree . The tale of three women who shaped the world for generations to come.

The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi by Shannon Chakraborty

A notorious pirate who has settled down into the life of a mother gets one more chance at adventure.

March 2023 Upcoming Book Releases

Mothered by Zoje Stage

Mystery & Thriller March 1, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

During the pandemic, a woman’s widowed mother moves in and their already strained relationship goes from bad to worse.

Weyward by Emilia Hart

Historical Fiction March 7, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

The lives of three women living at Weyward Cottage across different centuries tells the transformative power of female resilience.

What Have We Done by Alex Finlay

Mystery & Thriller March 7, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Decades later, a group of teens from an abusive group home reunites when someone begins killing them one by one.

Maybe Next Time by Cesca Major

Contemporary Fiction March 7, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A woman relives the same day repeatedly trying to change fate so her husband doesn’t die at the end of the day.

Rootless by Krystle Zara Appiah

After unexpectedly becoming pregnant, a woman realizes how differently she and her husband view the world and sets out to find herself.

Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano

Contemporary Fiction March 14, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A close-knit family is torn apart when the dark past of the oldest’s daughter’s college boyfriend comes to light.

Stateless by Elizabeth Wein

Historical Fiction March 14, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

In 1937, the only female pilot at Europe’s youth air race faces cutthroat competition when another competition is murdered.

I Will Find You by Harlan Coben

Mystery & Thriller March 14, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

An innocent father serving life in prison for his son’s death breaks out of prison when he finds evidence that his son might be alive.

The Last Russian Doll by Kristen Loesch

After her mother dies, a UK woman returns to Russia and discovers a family secret that encompasses much of modern Russian history.

48 Clues Into the Disappearance of My Sister by Joyce Carol Oates

A beautiful woman disappears from a sleepy New England town and her sister looks for clues where she went, but maybe not out of sisterly affection.

The London Séance Society by Sarah Penner

Historical Fiction March 21, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A Parisian spiritualist and her assistant travel to London to help solve a high-profile murder and become entangled in the crime.

Poverty, by America by Matthew Desmond

Nonfiction March 21, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

An examination of the roots of poverty in America and why one of the wealthiest nation has the highest rate of poverty of any advanced democracy.

Two Wars and a Wedding by Lauren Willig

A disillusioned college grad who survived as a nurse during a conflict between Greece and Turkey takes her friend’s place when her friend decides to be a nurse in war-torn Cuba.

Outlive by Peter Attia

Nonfiction March 28, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Strategies to help you live longer by improving your physical, cognitive, and emotional health.

The Mostly True Story of Tanner & Louise by Colleen Oakley

Contemporary Fiction March 28, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A video game addict reluctantly accepts a job as a live-in caretaker to an elderly woman and begins to suspect she is an infamous jewel thief.

Community Board by Tara Conklin

As she approaches thirty, a woman returns to her hometown and begins to find connection after anonymously posting on the community message board.

Lone Women by Victor LaValle

Horror March 28, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Fleeing to Montana, a woman keeps a locked trunk. Every time it opens someone disappears and it might be the only thing that will let her survive the Wild West.

Hang the Moon by Jeannette Walls

Historical Fiction March 28, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

During Prohibition, a young woman working as a bootlegger is determined to be accepted by her rich family which cast her out a decade ago.

April 2023 Upcoming Book Releases

Homecoming by Kate Morton

Historical Fiction April 4, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

When her grandmother falls, Jess returns home to Australia and discovers a surprising link to a notorious cold case from 1959.

The Soulmate by Sally Hepworth

Mystery & Thriller April 4, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

After a woman her husband knew falls to her death outside their seaside cottage, Pippa begins to wonder if she jumped or if she was pushed.

Before We Were Innocent by Ella Berman

Ten years after being acquitted of wrongdoing in their friend’s death in Greece, two women are caught up in an awfully similar crime.

The House is on Fire by Rachel Beanland

In 1811, split-second decisions change the lives of four individuals when a packed theater goes up in flames in Richmond, Virginia.

Coronation Year by Jennifer Robson

When threats are made against the hotel the queen will pass on Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation Day, its owner and residents must solve the mystery or risk losing their home.

Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld

Romance April 4, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A late night comedy writer finds herself in her own romantic comedy when sparks fly between her and the pop music superstar hosting that week.

When an Irish mom with a seemingly perfect life is murdered, everyone starts airing their neighbors’ dirty secrets to distract from their own possible motives.

The Wisdom of the Bullfrog by Admiral William H. McRaven

Nonfiction April 4, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A series of leadership lessons from the life of the former US Special Forces commander and the former Chancellor of the University of Texas.

Camp Zero by Michelle Min Sterling

Science Fiction April 4, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

In a near future, the fates of a group of climate change survivors in Northern Canada interconnect in unexpected ways.

Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross

Young Adult Fantasy April 4, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

With the gods at war and her brother missing, a journalist writes letters that she doesn’t realize are being answered by her rival at the newspaper. 

Silver in the Bone by Alexandra Bracken

A girl born without magic searches for a magical ring that might be the only way to protect her brother.

You Could Make This Place Beautiful by Maggie Smith

Nonfiction April 11, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

After her career success destroyed her marriage, a poet rebuilds herself and contemplates the challenges facing women today

Symphony of Secrets by Brendan Slocumb

Mystery & Thriller April 18, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A former detective finds herself framed for murder and trapped in a cat-and-mouse game with a brilliant unknown woman.

A professor authenticating a newly discovered piece by America’s most famous composer discovers he might have stolen his music from a young Black composer.

The Golden Doves by Martha Hall Kelly

Historical Fiction April 18, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A decade after they are their families were sent to Ravensbruck concentration camp, two female spies set out on a mission to seek justice for their loved ones.

Life in Five senses by Gretchen Rubin

Nonfiction April 18, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

The author of The Happiness Project pursues a new goal – to add more vitality to her life by exploring the five senses.

The Wager by David Grann

The true story of a 1740s court martial where two groups of shipwrecked British sailors accuse each other of mutiny and murder.

Happy Place by Emily Henry

Romance April 25, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

At their friends’ annual summer vacation, Harriet and Wyn fake that they’re still the perfect couple, even though they broke up six months ago.

With My Little Eye by Joshilyn Jackson

Mystery & Thriller April 25, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

An actress moves from LA to Atlanta to evade a stalker after receiving increasingly disturbing letters.

In the Lives of Puppets by TJ Klune

Fantasy April 25, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A man and his odd family of robots must band together to rescue a fatherly inventor android after he is captured.

Honey, Baby, Mine by Diane Ladd and Laura Dern

Nonfiction April 25, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Diane Ladd and her daughter Laura Dern, both award-winning actresses, discuss love, life and success.

May 2023 Upcoming Book Releases

The Half Moon by Mary Beth Keane

Contemporary Fiction May 2, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A marriage in crisis for the new owner of a bar and his lawyer wife who is struggling with infertility.

Did You Hear About Kitty Karr? by Crystal Smith Paul

Historical Fiction May 2, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A legendary white actress leaves her fortune to three wealthy Black sisters who discover a tale of unexpected family and sacrifice.

The Nigerwife by Vanessa Walters

Mystery & Thriller May 2, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A London woman flies to Nigeria to search for her missing niece and finds shocking secrets that hint at her own dark past.

The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese

Three generations of a Christan family in southern India curse to have one member of each generation die by drowning.

Chain-Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah

Dystopian Fiction May 2, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

In a dystopian America, a woman about to earn her freedom from winning a prison gladiator-style entertainment seeks to make a statement.

Paper Names by Susie Luo

An act of violence ties together an immigrant family and a white lawyer with his own family secrets.

Warrior Girl Unearthed by Angeline Boulley

Young Adult Fiction May 2, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Despite her family being entangled in a high-profile murder investigation, a Native woman must fight for survival when tribeswomen go missing and grave robbers strike.

Meet Me at the Lake by Carley Fortune

Romance May 2, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Years after spending one with a charming boy, he shows up again as her life is falling apart with an offer to help.

The Daydreams by Laura Hankin

Old secrets resurface in a reunion special for a popular early 2000s teenage drama that exploded on live tv and changed the actors lives forever.

The Ferryman by Justin Cronin

Science Fiction May 2, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Unrest begins to spread in the society an island utopia where implants monitor your health levels and nothing is at it once seemed.

No Two Persons by Erica Bauermeister

A woman’s debut novel touches the life of nine readers in different ways, showcasing the power of books in our lives.

The Making of Another Major Motion Picture Masterpiece by Tom Hanks

Literary Fiction May 9, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Iconic American actor Tom Hanks pens his debut novel about a humble comic book that inspires a multi-million dollar superhero action film.

The Collected Regrets of Clover by Mikki Brammer

Contemporary Fiction May 9, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A New York City death doula is forced to navigate friendship and love in the realm of the living on a cross-country trip.

Yellowface by R. F. Kuang

Contemporary Fiction May 16, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A struggling white author publishes a deceased Asian-American author’s unfinished work under a pseudonym and struggles to keep her secret.

The True Love Experiment by Christina Lauren

Romance May 16, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A romance novelist who’s never been in love stars in a romance reality tv show where all the contestants are romance archtypes.

Fractal Noise by Christopher Paolini

Science Fiction May 16, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

IN 2234, the crew of the Adamura are haunted by the ghosts of their pasts when they explore an anomaly on a plant’s surface.

The Senator’s Wife by Liv Constantine

Mystery & Thriller May 23, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

While recovering from hip surgery, a senator’s wife begins to suspect her home health aide has ulterior motives.

Someone Else’s Bucket List by Amy T. Matthews

Romance May 23, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

An Instagram influencers dying wish is for her shy younger sister to finish out her very public bucket list.

The Celebrants by Steven Rowley

Contemporary Fiction May 30, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A group of college friends gather together to celebrate life, but one has a secret that might upend everything.

Ink Blood Sister Scribe by Emma Törzs

Fantasy May 30, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

When their father dies, two half-sisters tasked with protecting rare magic books realize their parents have been lying to them.

The Wishing Game by Meg Shaffer

A woman hoping to raise money to adopt a young boy is a finalist to win the only copy of a famous author’s new book.

June 2023 Upcoming Book Releases

The Paris Daughter by Kristin Harmel

Historical Fiction June 6, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

After entrusting her daughter to her best friend with a daughter the same age, a woman returns after WWII ends searching for them, hearing rumors that only one daughter survived.

Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Lisa See

Based on a true story, the granddaughter of one of China’s only female doctors breaks with tradition to treat women of all levels during the Ming Dynasty.

Pageboy by Elliot Page

Nonfiction June 6, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

After finding success as a Hollywood starlet, Page describes trying to find himself after transitioning to a man.

Cassandra in Reverse by Holly Smale

Science Fiction June 6, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

After her boyfriend breaks up with her and she is fired, a woman discovers she can go back and change the past, but ends up changing all the wrong things.

The Wind Knows My Name by Isabel Allende

Literary Fiction June 6, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Two interwoven stories of parents searching for a better life for their children – on in 1938 Austria and the other in modern-day America.

All the Sinners Bleed by S. A. Cosby

Mystery & Thriller June 6, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A Black sheriff in the American South investigates the shooting of a young Black man by one of his deputies.

The Five-Star Weekend by Elin Hilderbrand

Contemporary Fiction June 13, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

After her husbands’ death, a woman gathers her friends from various stages of her life together for a weekend on Nantucket.

Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood

Romance June 13, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

In a STEM romance, two rival physicists duke it out all while she is fake dating his brother.

The Spectacular by Fiona Davis

Historical Fiction June 13, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

In 1956, when a bomb explodes at Radio City Music Hall, a Rockette finds herself tangled up in the investigation.

She Started It by Sian Gilbert

Mystery & Thriller June 13, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Four childhood friends are invited to a bachelorette party on a lavish remote island that turns into a nightmare when past secrets come out.

Zero Days by Ruth Ware

Mystery & Thriller June 20, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A security expert on the run for her husband’s murder must decide who to trust as she tracks down the real killer.

The Whispers by Ashley Audrain

Contemporary Fiction June 20, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A young boy is critically injured after falling out a window. His mother refuses to speak and her friendship with the neighbors quickly unravel.

The Only One Left by Riley Sager

An elderly woman whose family was murdered decades ago promises to tell her home health aide the whole story.

The Spare Room by Andrea Bartz

During lockdown, a woman uses the spare room of her childhood best friend and suspects something happened to their last guest.

The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston

Romance June 27, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

In cosmic bad timing, an overworked publicist falls in love with her temporary roommate, except he actually exists seven years in the past.

The Beach at Summerly by Beatriz Williams

Historical Fiction June 27, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

In 1946, a caretaker’s daughter becomes entangled with the estate’s residents and the hunt for a Cold War spy.

The Art Thief by Michael Finkel

Nonfiction June 27, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Stéphane Breitwieser plagued the art world, carrying out over two hundred heists in museums and cathedrals throughout the world for over a decade.

Banyan Moon by Thao Thai

Three generations of Vietnamese American women grapple with grief and newly discovered secrets when their matriarch dies.

The First Ladies by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray

The true story of the friendship between First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and Civil Rights Activist Mary McLeod Bethune.

Save What’s Left by Elizabeth Castellano

Contemporary Fiction June 27, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A recently divorced woman moves to a beach town and finds it is not the paradise she assumed, but still might be just what she needs.

July 2023 Upcoming Book Releases

The Sunset Crowd by Karin Tanabe

Historical Fiction July 4, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

In 1970s Los Angeles, three ambitious women each fight to make it to the top, willing to do whatever reinventing or duplicity it takes to earn success.

Beyond the Story by BTS

Nonfiction July 9, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

The first official book of the K-pop boy band BTS details their 10-year journey to international fame.

Hello Stranger by Katherine Center

Romance July 11, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A minor surgery leaves a woman with face blindness as she falls in love with two men at the same time.

Crook Manifesto by Colson Whitehead

Historical Fiction July 18, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Sequel to Harlem Shuffle . In the 1970s, Ray Carney manages his furniture and his illegal side gig as the city erupts in violence.

Cutting Teeth by Chandler Baker

Mystery & Thriller July 18, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

When a class of preschool children starts craving blood, they and their mothers are the prime suspects after the preschool teacher is killed.

The Block Party by Jamie Day

At the annual Summer Block Party, someone is murdered and all the seemingly perfect neighbors are suspects.

The Collector by Daniel Silva

Legendary art restorer Gabriel Allon and a beautiful master thief try to find the world’s most valuable missing painting while also stopping a international incident.

Immortal Longings by Chloe Gong

Fantasy July 18, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A new adult fantasy series inspired by Antony and Cleopatra where a princess enters a deadly game in order to bring down the monarchy.

Everyone Here is Lying by Shari Lapena

Mystery & Thriller July 25, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A girl goes missing hours after a fight with her father and all the neighbors want to spill the beans, but not all are telling the truth.

The Bookbinder by Pip Williams

Historical Fiction July 25, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

In 1914, an English woman yearns for higher education but fears that falling in love with a Belgain soldier might hold her back.

August 2023 Upcoming Book Releases

The Connellys of County Down by Tracey Lange

Contemporary Fiction August 1, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

After serving in prison for a drug conviction, a woman moves in with her siblings and tries to rebuild her life.

Tom Lake by Ann Patchett

A mother tells her three grown daughters of the summer in her youth when she fell in love with a famous actor.

Just Another Missing Person by Gillian McAllister

Mystery & Thriller August 1, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A detective soon realizes that her family’s safety depends on framing someone else for the murder case she is investigating.

Family Lore by Elizabeth Acevedo

A Dominican-American woman’s call for a living wake forces her sisters and nieces to make decisions about their own lives.

Gone Tonight by Sarah Pekkanen

A mother with a hidden past is desperate to keep her grown daughter from moving out beginning a dangerous chess match for power.

Out of Nowhere by Sandra Brown

After surviving a shooting at a county fair, a man and a woman find themselves drawn together. But can their attraction survive their trauma and desire for justice?

Shark Heart by Emily Habeck

Literary Fiction August 1, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A newly married couple try to navigate their life together after the husband begins turning into a great white shark.

None of This is True by Lisa Jewell

Mystery & Thriller August 8, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

After befriending a mysterious woman, a popular true crime podcaster unexpectedly finds herself the subject of her own podcast.

Dark Corners by Megan Goldin

The Night Swim sequel. Podcaster Rachel Krall searches for a true crime podcaster who disappeared after interviewing a serial killer.

California Golden by Melanie Benjamin

Historical Fiction August 8, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

In the 1960s, the daughters of a legendary female surfer find their lives diverging as the struggle with their unconventional childhood.

The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James McBride

When a body is found in a well, the long-buried secrets of a Pennsylvania neighborhood struggling to live on the margins of white Christina society come to light.

The Many Lives of Mama Love by Lara Love Hardin

Nonfiction August 8, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

The memoir of a woman who went from soccer mom to heroin addict to model prisoner to successful ghostwriter.

Tomb Sweeping by Alexandra Chang

Literary Fiction August 8, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A collection of short stories set across the United States and Asia that examines loyalty to relatives, strangers, and even ourselves.

The Vampires of El Norte by Isabel Cañas

Horror August 15, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

In 1840s Mexico, a woman and her first love must work together to face a monster that drains men of their blood.

The Invisible Hour by Alice Hoffman

Literary Fiction August 15, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A young woman from an oppressive cult is inspired to find freedom after reading The Scarlet Letter .

Good Bad Girl by Alice Feeney

Mystery & Thriller August 29, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

An eighty-year-old and a nursing home employee team up to solve a twenty-year child abduction and a recent murder.

Happiness Falls by Angie Kim

Contemporary Fiction August 29, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A biracial Korean family races to find answers when the father goes missing and the only witness is his mute son with a rare genetic condition who returns covered in blood.

The Breakaway by Jennifer Weiner

Romance August 29, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

An engaged plus-size woman leading a group bike trip is surprised when the one night stand who ghosted her years ago is one of the particpants.

Learned by Heart by Emma Donoghue

Historical Fiction August 29, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Based on the true story of Anne Lister and Eliza Raine, two teenagers who fall in love at an English boarding school in 1805.

September 2023 Upcoming Book Releases

The River We Remember by William Kent Krueger

Historical Fiction September 5, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

In 1958, a Sheriff investigates a murder in a small Minnesota town where the wounds from World War II make the truth hard to find.

Evil Eye by Etaf Rum

Contemporary Fiction September 5, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A Palestinian woman whose life begins to implode realizes that the conservative upbringing she thought she escaped has lasting consequences on her and her daughters’ lives.

Holly by Stephen King

Horror September 5, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Holly Gibney’s search for a missing daughter leads her to an octogenarian couple – two twisted professors with an unholy secret in their basement.

The Fraud by Zadie Smith

In 1873, a Scottish housekeeper becomes enthralled with a case where a man claiming to be the heir to an estate is a fraud and the star witness is a former Jamaican slave.

Amazing Grace Adams by Fran Littlewood

A woman on the brink of divorce treks across London to bring a birthday cake to her daughter while reflecting back on her life.

Mother-Daughter Murder Night by Nina Simon

Mystery & Thriller September 5, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A woman and her daughter become amateur detectives when her granddaughter becomes the prime suspect in a murder.

Build the Life You Want by Arthur C. Brooks and Oprah Winfrey

Nonfiction September 12, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Brooks and Winfrey show you how to use emotional self-management to improve your family, friendships, work, and faith.

Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson

A portrait of the world’s richest man and the demons that drive his innovation but also make him a risk-taker with unpredictable mood swings.

Chenneville by Paulette Jiles

Historical Fiction September 12, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

After the Civil War, an injured Union soldier hunts down the killer of his sister and her family.

The Stranger Upstairs by Lisa M. Matlin

Mystery & Thriller September 12, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A therapist/self-help blogger renovatesa gorgeous Victorian house until bizarre occurrences bring the house’s, and her, horrific past to light.

You, Again by Kate Goldbeck

Romance September 12, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Reeling from bad breakups, former enemies Ari and Josh establish a great friendship that might be something more.

Starter Villain by John Scalzi

Science Fiction September 17, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Charlie inherits his long-lost uncles’s supervillain empire, but a gentlemanly one, and must wage war against a league of soulless supervillains

The Traitor by Ava Glass

Mystery & Thriller September 19, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

British spy Emma Makepeace goes undercover on a Russian oligarch’s superyacht to solve the murder of an MI6 agent.

Wellness by Nathan Hill

Contemporary Fiction September 19, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A modern couple do the hard work to better understand themselves or they will risk losing each other while dealing with parenting, married life, Facebook feuds, and mindfulness cults.

Running Grave by Robert Galbraith

Mystery & Thriller September 26, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Private Investigators Cormoran Strike and Robin Ellacott take on another case where Robin joins a cult undercover in the 7th book of the series.

The Unsettled by Ayana Mathis

Literary Fiction September 26, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

When his mother connects again with his unstable father, a Black boy dreams of living with his strict grandmother in Alabama.

Foul Heart Huntsman by Chloe Gong

Historical Fantasy September 26, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

In the sequel to Foul Lady Fortune , Rosalind Lang, exposed as a spy, sets off on a national tour and tries to figure out how to save Orion.

The Armor of Light by Ken Follett

Historical Fiction September 26, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

The Industrial Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars bring new struggles in the fourth book of the Kingsbridge series.

Killing the Witches by Bill O’Reilly and Martin Dugard

Nonfiction September 26, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

The 13th book in the Killing series takes on the Salem Witch Trials and the mass hysterical that gripped the town in the 1690s.

October 2023 Upcoming Book Releases

My Darling Girl by Jennifer McMahon

Horror October 3, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

At Christmas, a woman takes in her estranged mother who is dying of cancer when otherworldly things begin to happen.

Let Us Descend  by Jesmyn Ward

Literary Fiction October 3, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Blending magical realism with a reimagining of American slavery, this is the story of Annis, a Black girl sold South by the white slave master who fathered her.

Going Infinite by Michael Lewis

Nonfiction October 3, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A look at the surprising rise and stunning fall of Sam Bankman-Fried, the founder of the cryptocurrency company FTX.

The Intern by Michele Campbell

Mystery & Thriller October 3, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A law student gets her dream internship with a federal judge who is assigned to her brother’s criminal case.

Starling House by Alix E. Harrow

Wanting extra cash, a woman helps out at her town’s spooky mansion and digs into the secrets of the author who used to own it.

The List by Yomi Adegoke

A journalist finds herself conflicted when an anonymous social media account posts a list of accusations and her boyfriend’s name is on it.

How to Say Babylon by Safiya Sinclair

A memoir of breaking free of a father’s strict Rastafarian upbringing where her father was obsessed with purity and enforcing patriarchal views on his children.

Judgment Prey by John Sandford

Lucas Davenport and Virgil Flowers must solve the murder of a wealthy federal judge and his two young sons shot in cold blood.

A Winter in New York by Josie Silver

Romance October 3, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A woman tries to figure out her mother’s connection to a New York gelato shop when she realizes they have the exact same secret recipe.

Making It So by Patrick Stewart

The memoir of Patrick Stewart, the legendary actor best known for his roles as Star Trek ‘s Captain Picard and X-Men ‘s Professor Xavier.

The Leftover Woman by Jean Kwok

Contemporary Fiction October 10, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A poor Chinese woman fleeing an abusive marriage goes to New York to find the daughter taken from her because of China’s one-child policy.

What We Kept to Ourselves by Nancy Jooyoun Kim

A man searches for answers when he finds a stranger’s dead body with a letter to his missing wife.

Family Meal by Bryan Washington

After his boyfriend dies, a man moves back to his hometown and navigates a friendship with his former best friend.

Sword Catcher by Cassandra Clare

Fantasy October 10, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A prince’s body double (and bodyguard) and a magical healer get entangled in a corruption scandal that threatens to take down the entire kingdom.

The Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne Young

Fantasy October 17, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A woman finds out she might not be hallucinating as she walks through the mysterious door to start an adventure encompassing both her past and her future.

The Exchange by John Grisham

Mystery & Thriller October 17, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

In a sequel to The Firm , his debut thriller, Mitch and Abby McDeere are living in Manhattan when they are caught up in another sinister plot.

Prequel by Rachel Maddow

Nonfiction October 17, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

An in-depth look at the conspiracy to overthrow the US government and instead ally the nation with Nazi Germany in the 1940s.

The Woman in Me by Britney Spears

Nonfiction October 23, 2024 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Pop icon Britney Spears shares shocking details of her life and forced conservatorship and contemplates the private pain of a public figure.

Christmas Presents by Lisa Unger

Mystery & Thriller October 24, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

When a true crime podcaster comes to town, a bookstore owner must relive her traumatic past to help save a missing woman.

Hidden Potential by Adam Grant

Nonfiction October 24, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Unlock your hidden potential by building character skills and motivational systems that will help you achieve more.

When I’m Dead by Hannah Morrissey

A medical examiner investigating the death of her daughter’s best friend finds her past coming back to haunt her when her daughter disappears.

People to Follow by Olivia Worley

Mystery & Thriller October 31, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Ten teenage social media influencers are invited to a remote island to film a reality show when people start dying.

Being Henry by Henry Winkler

Nonfiction October 31, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Known for starring as The Fonz in Happy Days , Henry Winkler recounts what it’s like to live worried your greatest days are already behind you.

What the River Knows by Isabel Ibanez

Young Adult Fiction October 31, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

In the 19th century, an Argentinian woman uses old magic to investigate her parents’ deaths in Egypt with the help of an archaeologist’s handsome assistant.

The Sun Sets in Singapore by Kehinde Fadipe

Contemporary Fiction October 31, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

The lives of three ex-pat women living in Singapore are thrown into chaos with the arrival of a handsome new man.

November & December 2023 Upcoming Book Releases

Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros

Fantasy November 7, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Sequel to Fourth Wing . Now that she knows the truth, can Violet Sorrengail survive her second year at Basgiath War College with a new commandant determined to make her betray her friends?

The Future by Naomi Alderman

Science Fiction November 7, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

In a dystopian future where money rules the world, a handful of friends plan a heist that could have catastrophic consequences.

Check & Mate by Ali Hazelwood

Romance November 7, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Mallory enters a charity chess event and beats the handsome world champion, sending her into the world of chess, a game that destroyed her family.

Class by Stephanie Land

Nonfiction November 7, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

In a followup to her bestselling memoir Maid , Stephanie Land discusses the challenges of being a poor single mom attending college.

The Good Part by Sophie Cousens

After wishing to skip to the good part of her life, Lucy Young wakes up as a married 40-year-old with the life she imagined.

Again and Again by Jonathan Evison

Contemporary Fiction November 7, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A lonely old man tells his nursing assistant a story about the thousand years he’s spent trying to find the love of his life.

Spirit of the Wood by Kristen Britain

A short story in the Green Rider series, Britain finally tells the backstory of fan-favorite character Laren Mapstone.

The Helsinki Affair by Anna Pitoniak

Mystery & Thriller November 14, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A new CIA agent teams up with legendary spy to uncover the truth about a plot coming out of the Kremlin.

The Edge by David Baldacci

Sequel to The 6:20 Man. Travis Devine must infiltrate a small Maine town to solve the murder of a CIA agent.

Day by Michael Cunningham

Contemporary Fiction November 14, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A Brooklyn family tries to figure out how to live together and apart during the pandemic.

The Narrow Road Between Desires by Patrick Rothfuss

Fantasy November 14, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A Kingkiller Chronicle standalone story about Bast tangled in the unforeseen consequences of a bargain.

The Mystery Guest by Nita Prose

Mystery & Thriller November 28, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

In a sequel to The Maid , Molly is now Head Maid and must solve the mystery of a famous author murdered in the hotel’s tea room.

The Last Love Note by Emma Grey

Contemporary Fiction November 28, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A widow reads the last love notes from her husband to finally grief his passing and possibly move on to love again.

We Must Not Think of Ourselves by Lauren Grodstein

Historical Fiction November 28, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

While archiving the stories of the Jewish people in the Warsaw Ghetto during WWII, a man finds a way to escape but must decide who he can save and at what cost.

The Kingdom of Sweets by Erika Johansen

Fantasy November 28, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A retelling of The Nutcracker . Natasha follows her twin sister to the Kingdom of Sweets, makes a bargain with the Sugar Plum fairy, and learns of her dark destiny.

The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon

Historical Fiction December 5, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

In 1789, a midwife who knows all the town’s secrets believes there is a connection between a rape and a murder. Based on a true story.

The Engagement Party  by Darby Kane

Mystery & Thriller December 5, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

When a dead body is found at an engagement party, a woman realizes all of her friends are hiding a secret from their college days.

The Wildest Sun by Asha Lemmie

An aspiring writer entering adulthood tries to connect with Ernest Hemingway, who she thinks is her birth father.

This Spells Love by Kate Robb

Romance December 5, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A woman casts a spell to forget her ex-boyfriend which causes her best friend to forget her as well.

The Lost Tomb by Douglas Preston

Nonfiction December 5, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

A collection of unbelievable yet true tales of buried treasure, lost tombs, and bizarre crimes encountered by journalist and bestselling author Douglas Preston.

Ruthless Vows by Rebecca Ross

Young Adult Fantasy December 26, 2023 Amazon | Goodreads | More Info

Sequel to Divine Rivals . Roman memory has been wiped but mysterious letters make him question his loyalties.

Find out what Upcoming Book Releases are coming out soon!

Recommended

The Best Books for January 2023

The new year is starting off strong with these reads.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Shondaland editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

If 2023 is the year you’re going to read, then you are in luck. This month has it all, from a book about navigating complicated relationships to a novel about the end of days and a nonfiction option about how Black women have helped shape the world of medicine. Happy New Year and happy reading

Really Good, Actually by Monica Heisey

Maggie’s world is imploding. At 29, she’s getting divorced after less than two years of marriage, she’s in the throes of a thesis that’s at a standstill, and she still can’t find pants that fit her. As she tries to restart her life by reconnecting with friends, exploring the scary world of dating, and learning more about herself, she inevitably runs into some hilarious moments. Readers will surely relate to Maggie as she navigates these choppy new waters. From award-winning writer Monica Heisey, whose words have been featured in Vogue , The New Yorker , and The New York Times , amongst other publications, as well as the fan favorite Schitt’s Creek series, Really Good, Actually is a balm that will soothe the soul.

The Survivalists by Kashana Cauley

There’s really no reason one should have to endure doomsday without some coffee, and luckily debut novelist Kashana Cauley’s protagonist in The Survivalists is well equipped. The novel, which already has a seal of approval from Samantha Irby and Trevor Noah, follows Aretha, a Black lawyer who gets involved with a man described as a “coffee entrepreneur” and his roommates who are preparing for the end of days in Brooklyn. Aretha ultimately pivots from grappling with her parents’ death and going up the corporate ladder to becoming enmeshed in a whole new world. Hilarious, dark, and thrilling, all while touching on relevant topics including capitalism, housing, and more, Cauley’s debut novel is a worthwhile read.

Central Places by Delia Cai

From Vanity Fair correspondent Delia Cai, Central Places revolves around Audrey Zhou, a 20-something New York City resident who has crafted herself a nearly perfect life complete with a well-paying job and a lovely photojournalist fiancé from a wealthy family. But when she visits her home in small-town Hickory Grove, Illinois, it’s clear things are not as flawless as they seem. She’s forced to see everyone she deserted for her posh new life, including the one person whom Audrey cannot forget. So, after this disastrous week, Audrey is forced to ask herself what she truly does want.

The Sweet Spot by Amy Poeppel

Sometimes one really is at the right place at the right time, or in the case of The Sweet Spot , three people happen to find themselves amid the magic of fate. The novel follows three very different women — Lauren, Melinda, and Olivia — who must rise to a difficult challenge. When a baby is left on the women’s shared building’s doorstep in New York City by Melinda’s ex and his new partner, the three women form an unlikely team in a quest to put their own fragmented lives back together while caring for a newborn. At different ages and places in their lives, the group of women still manage to rely on one another and find bits of solace in this crazy adventure. A wonderful choice for fans of stories about strong female friendships and shows like Gilmore Girls .

Twice as Hard: The Stories of Black Women Who Fought to Become Physicians, From the Civil War to the 21st Century by Jasmine Brown

Informed by historical analyses and Jasmine Brown’s own lived experiences as a Black woman in the medical field, Twice as Hard is a brilliant exploration about the work of several Black women and their vast contributions to medicine. Focusing on the stories of nine women spanning from 1860 all the way to the 21st century, Brown ruminates on their triumphs, the unfair playing field, and all the sacrifices they had to make along the way. Brown celebrates the work of these women but does not shy away from investigating their hard battles in carving space for themselves in the medical field. Twice as Hard educates while providing role models for other Black women in the field, ushering in new generations of talent to the medical world.

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10 new fantasy and sci-fi books to read in January 2023

By daniel roman | jan 14, 2023.

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It’s a new year, and that means new books! 2022 was a great year for fantasy and science fiction novels , and 2023 looks like it’s going to be just as fantastic. We’ll be rounding up new fantasy and sci-fi releases each month so you can always be in the know about what books are on the way.

This list contains 10 exciting new fantasy and sci-fi books coming out in January. From rebellions set in fantasy worlds to near-future surveillance states to whimsical fairy tales, the breadth of stories coming our way this month is broad enough to sate many a reader’s taste. One’s TBR pile can never be towering precariously enough, as they say.

But before we begin, a note about this list : While this is only a sampling of some of the titles from the month that we’re excited about, one thing we’re not able to include are any titles being released from imprints of Harper Collins due to the ongoing strike of their editorial, marketing, design, and other staff across a number of departments. Until some kind of resolution has been reached, WinterIsComing stands in solidarity with the HCP Union and will unfortunately not be including any Harper Collins titles in these round-ups. We sincerely hope the situation is resolved soon.

With that disclaimer out of the way, let’s talk books!

THE SAPPHIRE ALTAR by David Dalglish (January 10)

The second novel in veteran fantasy author David Dalglish’s  Vagrant Gods  trilogy,  The Sapphire Altar   follows the further struggles of deposed prince Cyrus Lythan and his band of co-conspirators as they seek to push the Everlorn Empire out of their beloved island of Thanet. The first novel in the series,  The Bladed Faith , was an enjoyable fantasy romp with great characters, and  The Sapphire Altar  promises to expand on what made that first installment so good while dishing out even more fantasy action, deific clashes, and found family feels.

Cyrus wants out. Trained to be an assassin in order to oust the invading Empire from his kingdom, Cyrus is now worried the price of his vengeance is too high. His old master has been keeping too many secrets to be trusted. And the mask he wears to hide his true identity and become the legendary “Vagrant” has started whispering to him in the dark. But the fight isn’t over and the Empire has sent its full force to bear upon Cyrus’s floundering revolution. He’ll have to decide once and for all whether to become the thing he fears or lose the country he loves.

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The Best Books to Read This January

Our picks for the 11 standout new releases of the month.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Prince Harry's highly anticipated memoir is sure to be a conversation starter this month. "I’m writing this not as the prince I was born but as the man I have become," Harry shared upon the announcement of Spare . "I’ve worn many hats over the years, both literally and figuratively, and my hope is that in telling my story—the highs and lows, the mistakes, the lessons learned—I can help show that no matter where we come from, we have more in common than we think." Spare, with its provocative title and promises of "raw, unflinching honesty," is not the first royal memoir written , but it's the most high-profile one to date. Consider it a must-read, and not just for royal fans.

Age of Vice

Deepti Kapoor's sprawling novel, Age of Vice, centers on the wealthy Wadia family. There's the playboy heir, Sunny; his servant, Ajay, who was born in poverty; and a journalist, Neda, who falls into Sunny's orbit. Kapoor takes the readers through each of their stories, and what results is a fast-paced, compelling novel that is part thriller, part family drama, and part look at modern Indian politics.

The Mitford Affair: A Novel

Truth, it's often said, is stranger than fiction. The Mitford Sisters could put that idea to the test. While the real-life antics of the legendary British siblings are wild enough (including, of course, fictionalizing their experiences for their own books), this new novel by Marie Benedict takes one of the most fraught moments in the family's history and uses it as the basis for a fun, compelling, and deliciously mannered saga. It might not be actual history, but we certainly don't mind.

Dior by Sarah Moon

This three-volume collection captures in stunning pictures (all photographed by Sarah Moon) the history of the house of Dior. The first volume includes photos of 33 of Christian Dior's original designs, shot in 2021 at Paris's Fondation Le Corbusier. The second pays tribute to the subsequent artistic directors of the brand through Raf Simons. The final volume is an ode to current creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri.

Maame: A Novel

Jessica George's Maame follows the story of Londoner Maddie, called "Maame" by her Ghanian family, as she cares for her father, who has advanced stage Parkinson’s. When her mother returns from Ghana, she tries to begin her life outside of the family home. Soon, however, tragedy strikes and Maddie loses her job at a publishing house. In this coming-of-age novel, Maddie navigates grief, familial duty, workplace racism, and being torn between two cultures. An unforgettable, funny debut.

Words and Music: Confessions of an Optimist

Stephen Rubin got his start as a music writer, but truly made his mark running some of the world's most storied publishing houses. In this smart, dishy memoir, Rubin details life at the top of the pile of American letters—the victories, the losses, the skirmishes, the gossip —and shares an unforgettable inside look at the world of books, celebrity, and the literary industrial complex.

Hell Bent: A Novel (Alex Stern, 2)

Leigh Bardugo returns to the dark magic of Yale's secret societies in this sequel to the bestselling Ninth House . Protagonist Alex "Galaxy" Stern is set on breaking her mentor, Darlington, out of purgatory. The dark academia fantasy novel is rooted in the very real nature of wealth, power, and murder, and Hell Bent is just as twisty and good as Ninth House .

The Half Known Life: In Search of Paradise

Prolific travel writer Pico Iyer turns his attention to the question of paradise in his latest book, The Half Known Life . "I’d begun to wonder what kind of paradise can ever be found in a world of unceasing conflict—and whether the very search for it might not simply aggravate our differences," he writes. Iyer travels to Iran, Sri Lanka, Ethiopia, Israel, Tibet, and elsewhere to uncover what paradise looks like on earth.

The New Life: A Novel

In 1800s England, two men whose marriages aren't quite as traditional as they appear to be find themselves planning to publish a book taking a radical-for-the-time stance on same-sex relationships. But when public opinion becomes obviously swayed prior to the book's release, the question of whether they want their work out in the world becomes urgent. Tom Crewe's book is a beautiful, haunting portrait of love in a time that didn't understand it, and a reminder of how close we are to the past.

The Shards: A novel

A sort of prequel to the author's legendary debut novel, Less Than Zero , The Shards follows a young man (named Bret Easton Ellis) through the smoggy world of early 1980s Los Angeles, where he attends private school, experiments with drugs and sex, and casually glides through life—until a string of murders gets too close for comfort. It's a thrilling page turner from Ellis , who revisits the world that made him a literary star with a stylish, scary new story that doesn't disappoint.

8 Rules of Love: How to Find It, Keep It, and Let It Go

Award-winning storyteller and podcaster Jay Shetty is set to deliver his second book 8 Rules of Love, and seeing as how his first landed in the number one slot on Amazon’s best seller list, we’re looking forward to this subsequent project. Shetty’s 8 Rules of Love combines ancient wisdom and modern science to offer tangible tools that will help you navigate relationships through every stage— and not just relationships with others, but also with ourselves and the world.

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The best new novels of 2023

The best books coming in 2023, from literary heavyweights to thrilling debuts.

A new year means new starts, and for bookworms, not just new books but a whole tranche of new authors to discover and enjoy. From new titles from established literary heavyweights to debut authors with books that might just change your life, 2023 has plenty to offer in the world of fiction.

Love stories

Amazing Grace Adams by Fran Littlewood (January)

A book that will resonate with anyone who has felt they are spinning more than their fair share of plates, this debut from Fran Littlewood will be devoured by those women who have been tempted to give it all up for a moment’s peace. Littlewood is a journalist-turned-author, and the mother of three teenage daughters, who firmly believes that there needs to be change in how we talk about women as they age. Amazing Grace Adams attempts to do that and with aplomb, a novel rooted in motherhood, marriage and female rage that isn’t afraid to delve into the female hormones of adult womanhood. 

Sweet, Soft, Plenty Rhythm by Laura Warrell (February)

For American author Laura Warrell, writing Sweet, Soft, Plenty Rhythm has been a labour of love. Warrell, who is 51, decided a few years ago to give up on love, having survived a marriage, a divorce, and a string of relationships with men who failed to commit to her. She channeled her experience into her debut novel, a swirling modern classic that brings together a cacophony of women’s voices who all have the same man in common: mixed-race jazz trumpeter Circus Palmer. Sweet, Soft, Plenty Rhythm interrogates love – and its absence – from deep within these decade-spanning relationships, resulting in a book that is varied, insightful and beautiful.

The Three of Us by Ore Agbaje-Williams (May) 

Debut author Ore Abgaje-Williams wrote a first draft of The Three of Us during NaNoWriMo, in lockdown, and is set to be one of the annual writing challenge's greatest successes yet: the novel won a six-book auction to get a deal. The Three of Us twists domestic noir into one tight, tense and darkly funny day while exploring an uncomfortably familiar question: what happens when your spouse and your best friend hate one another? The Three of Us has won comparisons to I May Destroy You by Michaela Coel, Oyinkan Braithwaite’s My Sister the Serial Killer and Exciting Times by Naoise Dolan. 

The Late Americans by Brandon Taylor (June)

Brandon Taylor’s third offering, after the Booker Prize-shortlisted Real Life and bestseller Filthy Animals is The Late Americans , a novel that places the endless intricacies of friendships, lovers and chosen family centre stage. Set in Iowa City around a potent friendship group of dancers, amateur pornographers, poets, landlords, meat-packing workers and mathematicians who occupy the city’s many facets, The Late Americans culminates in a reckoning that will change all of these young people’s lives.

Talking at Night by Claire Daverley (July)

Some love stories are so engrossing you can’t believe they’re not quite real. Claire Daverley’s debut novel is dedicated to Will and Rosie, who met as teenagers and, quite by accident, became one another’s great love story. But when tragedy strikes, obliterating any chance of their being together, the couple are drawn into an existence which neither can inhabit nor escape. Talking at Night is their captivating, heartbreaking tale.

Books you won’t want to put down

The Cloisters by Katy Hays (January)

A must-read for fans of The Secret History , The Cloisters is an intriguing and mysterious novel with murder at its heart. Art historian and author Katy Hays was inspired by a real Tarot deck and the fascinating medieval history of the occult to create this gripping novel of class, academia, secrets and future-telling. You’ll never look at Tarot in the same way again.

I Will Find You by Harlan Coben (March)

International bestselling author Harlan Coben has been a tearaway on Netflix since his show Stay Close launched this summer, but it’s on the page that his stories are the most compelling – and his forthcoming novel is no different. In I Will Find You , the worst tragedy strikes a family of three when their toddler goes missing – and all evidence points to his father, Will, having killed him. So when his sister-in-law arrives five years later with a life-changing bombshell, Will is set on a mission to clear his name – and find his son.

Pineapple Street by Jenny Jackson (April)

Book editors often make excellent novelists (think Harriet Evans or Abigail Dean) and Jenny Jackson pours twenty years of experience into Pineapple Street , her debut. Gabrielle Zevin , Emily St. John Mandel, Katherine Heiny and Kevin Kwan are among the stellar names on Jackson's roster (Kwan told the New York Times , “It was like finding out your spouse is an Olympic equestrian”) but the story and style are all hers. This is a glossy family drama about a colossally wealthy family navigating the challenges from the choices each of the now-adult Stockton children have made with family finances. Cord married outsider Sasha without a pre-nup. Darley rebelled against the family wealth to raise her children on a 'normal' budget, and young Georgiana is out of her depth working at a non-profit organisation. This is a beach read only in the sense that you need to be somewhere you can inhale this in one go. No surprise that it's been optioned for a TV series.

The Trial by Rob Rinder (June) 

As fans of Judge Rinder will know, Rob Rinder has seen enough courtroom trials in his career to know that truth can be stranger than fiction. No wonder, then, that his debut novel takes all of the drama he brings to proceedings and boils it down into a powerful thriller. Transporting the reader from the murky world of Chambers to the grandeur of the Old Bailey, Rinder’s character Adam Green, a trainee barrister who doesn’t quite fit in, is one to stick with. 

The Girls of Summer by Katie Bishop (May)

Summer romances are the stuff of many a novel, but debut author and seasoned backpacker Katie Bishop twists this familiar scene on its head in her debut. Don’t let the title fool you: The Girls of Summer tackles dark subjects such as rape, suicide and trafficking through a dual-history narrative – one set in the London of today, the other on a Greek island 16 years ago. When Rachel thinks back on the first love she believed changed her life as an adult, she realises just how far she had fallen. 

Feel-good reads

We All Want Impossible Things by Catherine Newman (January)

Children’s and non-fiction author Catherine Newman turns her experienced hand to fiction for this delightful read about long-term friendship and what happens when the unimaginable occurs. Edi and Ash have been best friends for over 40 years, sticking side-by-side through first loves, teenage shenanigans, marriage, loss, fertility troubles, and children. So when Edi is diagnosed with terminal cancer, Ash sticks by her then, too. What unfolds is a novel that joyfully celebrates making the best out of life’s littlest things. 

Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld (April) 

Ever since she exploded onto the bestseller charts with Prep in 2005, author Curtis Sittenfeld has demonstrated a keen eye for satire and the ability to deliver a razor-sharp line. After nearly two decades of writing brilliant, witty and well-observed novels about high society, Sittenfeld is back with Romantic Comedy , about a loveless TV writer and her unlikely romance with a pop idol. After all, if average-looking men can bag beautiful, successful female dates, why can’t it work the other way around? 

The Making of Another Major Motion Picture Masterpiece by Tom Hanks (May)

Yes, that Tom Hanks. This isn’t, however, a memoir, but the first novel from the beloved two-time Oscar winner. Hanks made his literary debut in 2017 with a collection of short stories that demonstrated the breadth and depth of the human condition. Now he’s back long-form with a novel that proves Hanks is as serious a writer as he is an actor. The Making of Another Major Motion Picture Masterpiece spans eight decades as a host of characters come together in an attempt to make Hollywood magic – with the priceless pedigree of an insider’s knowledge.

Go As a River by Shelley Read (April)

A read that’s as transportive as it is beautiful, Go As a River offers a story of female resilience and power against a breathtaking landscape. Five generations of author Shelley Read’s family have lived in the Elk Mountains of the Western Slope of Colorado, and it’s this deep heritage that has inspired the bold story at the heart of her novel. Victoria Nash, her 17-year-old heroine, has her life turned upside down after a chance encounter with a mysterious drifter. When she follows, she risks losing everything she holds most dear.

Historical fiction

The New Life by Tom Crewe (January) 

As an editor at the London Review of Books , Tom Crewe knows a thing or two about what to read. He also knew about what he wanted to write before A New Life came on the scene: “This is the book I knew I wanted to write long before I actually wrote it,” he explains. Crewe’s intention was to “reveal to readers an unfamiliar Victorian England that will surprise and provoke”. A New Life follows two men and the queer relationships they are trying to make a better world for – even if it throws their lives into danger in the process.

Siblings by Brigitte Reimann (February)

Brigitte Reimann was one of East Germany’s most daring authors, whose life imitated that of her fearless fictional heroines. In Siblings , she takes the reader back to 1960, where the border between East and West Germany has closed, and with it relationships within one family. While the young painter Elisabeth sees the GDR as her generation’s chance to build a brave new future, her brother Uli sees it as a place of oppression. Fear and opportunity collide in this groundbreaking classic of post-war East German literature. 

Clytemnestra by Costanza Casati (March)

Modern retellings of Greek myths are having a moment, and into the arena enters Clytemnestra , debut novelist Costanza Casati’s passionate and poised retelling of the story of Greek mythology’s most notorious heroine. Casati studied Ancient Greek and Ancient Greek literature in Italy for five years, so she brings deep expertise to Clytemnestra , which is told from the vengeful queen’s perspective. Power, prophecies, hatred and love all combine in this fiery novel.

Secrets of Hartwood Hall by Katie Lumsden (March) 

As those familiar with her YouTube channel, Books and Things, may know, Katie Lumsden has been a fan of Victorian fiction for decades. Now, she’s written her own take on 19th-century gothic: Secrets of Hartwood Hall . A must-read for fans of Dickens, Austen, and the Bronte sisters, Lumsden’s debut is a gripping and full-bloodied manor-house mystery. Young widow Margaret Lennox takes a governess position at the titular hall in 1852, but rather than having the chance to leave her past behind, she finds even more secrets, some of which threaten her very being.

Our Hideous Progeny by C. E. McGill (May) 

C. E. McGill took inspiration from one of the greatest novels of all time for this sumptuous gothic horror story. At its heart is Mary, great-niece of Victor Frankenstein, who knows of her uncle’s disappearance in the Arctic but not much more. Along with her husband, Mary is trying to find fame as a paleontologist, but neither have the connections or cash needed in 1850s London for such a feat. When Mary goes rummaging in some family papers, she discovers what her great-uncle really got up to: but will this knowledge be the couple’s meal ticket, or their demise?

Girl, Goddess, Queen by Bea Fitzgerald (July) 

TikTok star Bea Fitzgerald has won a devoted audience for her Greek myth parody videos over on @chaosonolympus , and now she’s taking to the page with YA novel Girl, Goddess, Queen . Taking the conventional telling of the Persephone story and having an absolute riot with it, Fitzgerald’s debut novel re-imagines one of the best-known myths as a love quest in which Persephone actively pursues Hades. It’s a plan that will shake Mount Olympus to its very core.

Otherworldly stories

Now She Is Witch by Kirsty Logan (Jan)

Kirsty Logan has made a name for herself as a purveyor of chilling stories, and Now She Is Witch is no different. A witch story unlike any other, Logan entwines the narratives of two searingly drawn female characters: Lux and Else, who are united in their mission to avenge a man who wronged them. Fearless, cunning and familiar with the art of poisoning, these are two women not to be underestimated. 

Victory City by Salman Rushdie (February) 

The acclaimed novelist has tackled the epic form for this immersive saga of love, adventure and myth. Set in 14th-century southern India, Victory City recreates the foundations of a utopian society from the mind of one remarkable child: nine-year-old Pampa Kampana. Grief-stricken after witnessing the death of her mother, Pampa becomes a vessel for the goddess Parvati, who challenges her to make the impossible real: a world of gender equality. In her quest, civilisation shifts, with wild consequences. 

This Other Eden by Paul Harding (February) 

Pulitzer Prize-winner Paul Harding is back with this extraordinary novel that imagines the final days of a once-thriving racial utopia. This Other Eden tells the stories of the Apple Islanders, a civilisation born of race and science, and in particular Ethan Honey, a man spared destruction because of his artistic skills and fair skin. Harding challenges us to consider mercy and tolerance in this visionary and shimmering novel, as otherworldly as the landscape it imagines.

Ink Blood Sister Scribe by Emma Torzs (July) 

In Emma Torzs’s world, magic exists – and that’s exactly why it needs to be protected. Ink Blood Sister Scribe is the story of a woman left behind with the heritage and heavy debt of the magic that formed – and destroyed – her family. Joanna Kalotay has been upholding her family’s reputation as the librarians of books capable of doing dark magic, but when her estranged sister returns to the family home, the pair must fix their relationship to stop devastating harm from taking place. 

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Den of Geek

Best New Science Fiction Books in January 2023

Interplanetary exploration and resistance against dystopian oppression feature in our picks for the top new science fiction books in January 2023.

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January tends to be a quiet time for publishing as people come back from the holidays and booksellers trust in old favorites. It’s slim pickings, but there are still some options for brand-new space exploration and social commentary this month. Here are our picks for the top new science fiction books in January 2023.

The Terraformers by Annalee Newitz

Type: Novel Publisher: Tor Books Release date: Jan. 31

Den of Geek says: Ecological mystery turns cozy in this novel that has been compared to Becky Chambers’ quiet, thoughtful “hopepunk.”

Publisher’s summary: Destry’s life is dedicated to terraforming Sask-E. As part of the Environmental Rescue Team, she cares for the planet and its burgeoning eco-systems as her parents and their parents did before her.

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But the bright, clean future they’re building comes under threat when Destry discovers a city full of people that shouldn’t exist, hidden inside a massive volcano.

As she uncovers more about their past, Destry begins to question the mission she’s devoted her life to, and must make a choice that will reverberate through Sask-E’s future for generations to come.

Critical Mass by Daniel Suarez

Type: Novel Publisher: Dutton Release date: Jan. 31 Den of Geek says: It’s nice to see some hard science fiction now and then. This novel focuses on engineering marvels in high-tension situations, casting forward to a near future that will repeat Earth’s cycles of exploration, exploitation and warring powers. Publisher’s summary: When unforeseen circumstances during an innovative — and unsanctioned — commercial asteroid-mining mission leave two crew members stranded, those who make it back must engineer a rescue, all while navigating a shifting web of global political alliances and renewed Cold War tensions. With Earth governments consumed by the ravages of climate change and unable to take the risks necessary to make rapid progress in space, the crew must build their own nextgen spacecraft capable of mounting a rescue in time for the asteroid’s next swing by Earth.   In the process they’ll need to establish the first spin-gravity station in deep space, the first orbiting solar power satellite and refinery, and historic infrastructure on the moon’s surface — all of which could alleviate a deepening ecological, political, and economic crisis back on Earth, and prove that space-based industry is not only profitable ,  but possibly humanity’s best hope for a livable, peaceful future.

I Keep My Exoskeletons to Myself by Marisa Crane

Type: Novel Publisher: Catapult Release date: Jan. 17

Den of Geek says: Catapult tends to produce precise, moving literary speculative fiction. Crane’s novel debut looks like an eerie and powerful continuation of that track record.

Publisher’s summary: In a United States not so unlike our own, the Department of Balance has adopted a radical new form of law enforcement: rather than incarceration, wrongdoers are given a second (and sometimes, third, fourth, and fifth) shadow as a reminder of their crime—and a warning to those they encounter. Within the Department, corruption and prejudice run rampant, giving rise to an underclass of so-called Shadesters who are disenfranchised, publicly shamed, and deprived of civil rights protections. Kris is a Shadester and a new mother to a baby born with a second shadow of her own. Grieving the loss of her wife and thoroughly unprepared for the reality of raising a child alone, Kris teeters on the edge of collapse, fumbling in a daze of alcohol, shame, and self-loathing. Yet as the kid grows, Kris finds her footing, raising a child whose irrepressible spark cannot be dampened by the harsh realities of the world. She can’t forget her wife, but with time, she can make a new life for herself and the kid, supported by a community of fellow misfits who defy the Department to lift one another up in solidarity and hope. With a first-person register reminiscent of the fierce self-disclosure of Sheila Heti and the poetic precision of Ocean Vuong,  I Keep My Exoskeletons to Myself  is a bold debut novel that examines the long shadow of grief, the hard work of parenting, and the power of queer resistance.

Megan Crouse

Megan Crouse writes for Star Wars Insider and Star Wars.com and is a co-host on Den of Geek's Star Wars podcast, Blaster Canon. Twitter: @blogfullofwords

New Releases: January 2023 Nonfiction

Jaime Herndon

Jaime Herndon finished her MFA in nonfiction writing at Columbia, after leaving a life of psychosocial oncology and maternal-child health work. She is a writer, editor, and book reviewer who drinks way too much coffee. She is a new-ish mom, so the coffee comes in extra handy. Twitter:  @IvyTarHeelJaime

View All posts by Jaime Herndon

Ah, January. Sure, it’s the start of a new year, new beginnings, and all that, but it’s also the start of a whole new year of new releases to look forward to. Think of all the fabulous books that will be released in 2023! (My wallet is crying and I’m sure my already overflowing TBR pile isn’t too happy, either).

It might also be the start of some new reading challenges or some new reading resolutions, or you might just want to explore something different. Lucky for you (and for everyone, really), January nonfiction is full of different options. It’s the perfect opportunity to grab a book that looks interesting, sit by the fire with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa, and layer on the blankets while you read the day away.  

There’s a personal essay collection about pre- and post-transplant life, a book exploring what it’s like to be mixed race and issues of belonging and acceptance, memoir/cultural criticism about alcohol’s role in our culture and what happens when you don’t partake, a reported memoir about stuttering, and much more.

This is not a comprehensive list of every nonfiction book being released in January, but these are the ones that especially caught my eye. Let’s take a look!

Your Hearts, Your Scars by Adina Talve-Goodman (Jan 24)

This posthumously published collection of essays is a slim book, but packs a punch. Talve-Goodman was born with a congenital heart condition, going through many surgeries during childhood, and eventually receiving a heart transplant at the age of 19. Through these essays, she explores growing up chronically ill, societal responses, living in the medical world, and knowing that your survival is due to someone else’s death. It’s a raw, deeply honest collection of writing that looks squarely at the hard stuff but also celebrates life.

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Bloodbath Nation by Paul Auster (January 10)

Auster saw firsthand how gun violence can affect a family: his grandmother murdered his grandfather. In this book, he isn’t calling for banning or regulating guns — it’s more of an expression of confusion at why our country seems to have no problem with 40,000 deaths every year from guns. He looks at Americans and the cowboy myths, fictional violence on television, and politicians who stoke fear in people while also twisting the truth. It’s personal and political, but it’s a book meant for everyone. Race, society, and more are all explored in this urgent and timely book.

The Racism of People Who Love You: Essays on Mixed Race Belonging by Samira K. Mehta (January 10)

In this book that weaves together memoir, cultural criticism, and theory, Mehta writes about being mixed race and feeling at ease or excluded from various spaces, including that of family. A common assumption is that being mixed race would mean you feel comfortable in multiple cultural spaces, but Mehta shows that one can also feel very isolated in those spaces, and explores the different layers of that. It’s a scholarly but also personal look at being mixed race, the assumptions people make (even family), and racism that one can experience in various spaces.

Drinking Games: A Memoir by Sarah Levy (January 3)

Levy’s life looked pretty perfect from the outside: living in NYC, lots of parties, and a good job — except what no one knew was that her drinking was quickly becoming a problem. She combines memoir with cultural examination in this book, looking at the culture of drinking and the role alcohol plays in our lives and in various circles, and what it means to opt out. It’s a surprisingly fresh look at this topic, and one that I think will resonate with a lot of people.

Superfan: How Pop Culture Broke My Heart by Jen Sookfong Lee (January 17)

Pop culture helped Jen Sookfong Lee escape the hard times, especially after the loss of her father, and helped her fit in to her surroundings. But as she got older, Lee began to realize how pop culture also was not made for people like her, the child of Chinese immigrants. She explores her adventures in pop culture while also dissecting them from her personal history and point of view, as well as her lived experiences as an Asian woman and single mom. It’s a really thoughtful, observant look at pop culture, what it can mean to us, and the power of cultural icons.

Driving the Green Book: A Road Trip Through the Living History of Black Resistance by Alvin Hall (January 31)

People might know the Green Book because of the movie of the same name, or because of Lovecraft Country , but in this compelling nonfiction book, Hall details the real history of the guide while going on his own road trip. With a friend, Hall drove from New York to Detroit to New Orleans, visiting many of the motels, restaurants, and stores in the Green Book. He stopped at historical and cultural landmarks, and spoke to people who used the Green Book as a survival tool. This is a book that brings history to life, while also reminding us that history is not so far in the past.

Life on Delay: Making Peace with a Stutter by John Hendrickson (January 17)

If you read Hendrickson’s piece in The Atlantic about Biden’s stutter , you’ll want to check this book out. Hendrickson writes about living with a stutter, about the bullying, depression, and isolation stutterers face on a daily basis, family dynamics, and the history (and future) of speech therapy. This isn’t a book about “overcoming” a stutter; that’s important to know. It’s a book about living with a stutter. It’s a thought-provoking exploration of stuttering and its impact.

History Comics: Rosa Parks & Claudette Colvin: Civil Rights Heroes by Tracey Baptiste and Shauna J. Grant (January 3)

Graphic novels are a great way to impart information, and the History Comics series does a great job of this. They’re middle grade books but filled with historical information that make the books suitable even for older teens and adults. In this book, Baptiste writes (with Grant’s illustrations) about Claudette Colvin and Rosa Parks — she writes about the details of their lives, and shows that there is more to them and their lives than what’s only taught in the history books.

Have you decided what you’ll read first, nonfiction-wise, in 2023?

If you’re looking for even more nonfiction books, check out the best biographies of 2022 , and some nonfiction from indie presses . You can also find a full list of new releases in the magical New Release Index , carefully curated by your favorite Book Riot editors, organized by genre and release date.

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The Award-Winning Books You’ll Actually Love

With so many books sporting metallic stickers, it can be hard to know which one to pick up first. We’ve got you covered with a list of this year’s crème de la crème.

Our editors handpick the products that we feature. We may earn commission from the links on this page.

In a perfect world, we’d be able to read every single prizewinning book every single year. In a perfect world, we’d be able to read every single book, period! But in reality, time is short, and you can’t always count on a fancy sticker to guarantee a great read. That’s why we did the pre-reading for you and rounded up the absolute best award-winning books of the past year. Read on for the ones you really don’t want to miss.

Night Watch, by Jayne Anne Phillips

The 2024 winner of the Pulitzer Prize for fiction is a story of resilience and reinvention, set in a Civil War–era mental hospital. Born in 1861 (the same year of the confederacy’s secession), 12-year-old ConaLee has “not seen the War except in what it ruined.” Her father has been absent all her life. Her mother has gone mute in response to the relentless abuse of a violent veteran, who inserts himself in their lives before dumping them at a Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum. Within this West Virginian asylum, readers' assumptions about 19th-century mental healthcare are tested and secrets of ConaLee’s past are unveiled. Flashing between perspectives and timelines, Phillips traces the long tail of trauma through her characters’ lives and our nation’s history.

How to Say Babylon, by Safiya Sinclair

The winner of the 2024 National Book Critics Circle Award for Autobiography is an intimate and ferocious tale of the author growing up under—and eventually, outgrowing— a father’s strict Rastafarianism. Sinclair spent her “early childhood in a wild state of happiness” on Jamaica’s achingly beautiful coast. But she soon learns that she is not simply a child on an island—she is a girl in a culture obsessed with female purity and obedience. As her father’s control tightens, her own creative passions grow; soon, she must choose between betraying the values that raised her and forfeiting the woman she desperately wants to become. While Sinclair’s story itself is deeply inspirational, it is her language that makes this book truly exceptional; her background as a prizewinning poet ignites every sentence.

What Happened to Ruthy Ramirez, by Claire Jiménez

The heaven & earth grocery store, by james mcbride.

If you haven’t already read the latest, Kirkus Prize–winning novel from the author of Deacon King Kong (Oprah’s 85th Book Club pick ), what are you waiting for? This characteristically energetic read takes readers back in time to 1930s Pottstown, Pennsylvania, where Black and Jewish residents lived side by side in a neighborhood known as Chicken Hill, sharing apartment blocks and dark secrets. Though set up as a mystery—complete with a dead body—the story finds its footing in Dodo, the deaf, parentless boy hidden by locals from officials attempting to put him in a home for the insane. Heartwarming and heartbreaking, a feat of language, life, and imagination.

When We Were Sisters, by Fatimah Asghar

The first ever winner of the Carol Shields Prize for Fiction—an award named for the late Canadian writer and aimed at addressing the “continued inequality of women in the literary world”—is a debut novel about three orphaned Muslim sisters raising each other and coming into their own in America. The children of Pakistani immigrants and the daughters of a mother who died years ago, Noreen, Aisha, and Kausar are “familyless in America” save for their beloved father. When he is senselessly murdered, they are sent to live an uncle, whose “care” ranges from brutally strict to utterly neglectful. While this may sound like a grim premise, the novel is illuminated by Asghar’s rich and inventive language, the book’s nuanced exploration of gender identity, and the girls’ ever evolving and death-defying bond.

A First Time for Everything, by Dan Santat

While this National Book Award–winning graphic memoir is technically for children, adults and middle graders alike will see themselves in this story of self-discovery, international exploration, and first love. For many recent eighth-grade graduates, a three-week-long class trip across Europe would be a dream. For 13-year-old Dan—who has spent middle school dodging taunts from his classmates and doing his best to be invisible—it’s a nightmare. But as he makes his way across the foreign continent, he shares in humiliations, adventures, and some touchingly relatable tween-age romance with his once terrifying peers. Gradually, he begins to recognize the cracks in everyone else’s facade, and the bravery pulsing beneath his own protective shell. Santat’s luxurious illustrations give us a window into the narrator’s awe, allowing us to see the Eiffel Tower and the exotic European Fanta selection alike with fresh eyes.

The Hive and the Honey, by Paul Yoon

The winner of the 20th annual Story Prize, this collection of stories reckons with the Korean diaspora and the ties that bind. A North Korean maid, living in Barcelona, learns that the child she left behind may have grown into a Soviet middleweight boxing star. A samurai escorts a Korean orphan on a late winter voyage through 1608 Japan. The children of North Korean defectors build a new life for themselves in London—only to be pulled back into the past by an encounter with a strange child. With spare language and open questions, Yoon draws attention to the physical vastness of the world, and the emotional nearness of our experiences within it.

Charley Burlock is the Associate Books Editor at Oprah Daily where she writes, edits, and assigns stories on all things literary. She holds an MFA in creative nonfiction from NYU, where she also taught undergraduate creative writing. Her work has been featured in the Atlanti c , the Los Angeles Review , Agni , the Apple News Today podcast, and elsewhere. She is currently working on a book about collective grief (but she promises she's really fun at parties). 

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Michael Bishop, Genre-Busting Writer Known for Science Fiction, Dies at 78

His early work took readers to the stars, but his later work ventured into noir mystery and the back roads of the American South.

By Clay Risen

Michael Bishop, an author who was best known for his award-winning science fiction but who ranged far beyond the genre, venturing into realism, noir mystery and even Southern Gothic, died on Nov. 13 in LaGrange, Ga. He was 78.

His daughter, Stephanie Bishop, said the death, at a hospice facility, was from complications of cancer treatment.

Mr. Bishop emerged in the 1970s as part of a new cohort of science fiction writers, like Ursula K. LeGuin and J.G. Ballard , who were intent on bringing their field into mainstream acceptance.

They sought to present “mature science fiction,” which used imagined worlds and realities to mine fundamental questions of human nature. Mr. Bishop and others saw it as an advancement over their pulpy predecessors and as an antidote to the takeover of their field by mass pop culture, especially after the release of the movie “Star Wars” in 1977.

“Rightly or wrongly, I wanted to reclaim” science fiction, he said in a 2000 interview with the website Infinity Plus , “at least in some of its literary manifestations, as a legitimate medium in which to examine age-old human concerns.”

His first novel, “A Funeral for the Eyes of Fire” (1975, rewritten in 1980 as “The Eyes of Fire”), involves two human brothers who escape a totalitarian Earth only to find themselves enmeshed in the cultural tensions and political intrigues of a distant planet.

In contrast to earlier science fiction that treated aliens as two-dimensional and often subhuman, Mr. Bishop presents the alien society of his novel as a world as rich in myth and ritual as anything found on Earth. That approach won him praise as an “anthropological” writer.

His work often touched on faith — he was an avowed Christian — and race. In one novel, the Nebula Award-winning “No Enemy but Time” (1982), a Black protagonist travels two million years into the past to study pre-human hominids.

Critics widely praised his work, though more than one said that his writing style came across as overly florid at times.

Gerald Jonas, writing in The Times in 1997 , called Mr. Bishop “one of science fiction’s more ambitious prose stylists,” but also dinged one of his stories as “a quasi-profound, quasi-comic take on reality that calls to mind the most mannered fables of J.G. Ballard and Philip K. Dick .”

As his career progressed, Mr. Bishop found himself drifting away from science fiction. His last true science-fiction novel, “ Brittle Innings ” (1994), is a Gothic-tinged tale in which Frankenstein’s monster is alive (more or less) and well, playing minor-league baseball in the small-town South.

His later work ranged broadly. He co-wrote two noir mystery novels with Paul Di Filippo, both under a single pseudonym, Philip Lawson: “Would It Kill You to Smile?” (1998) and “Muskrat Courage” (2000). In 2019, he published a collection consisting almost entirely of stories that were not science fiction: “Other Arms Reach Out to Me: Georgia Stories.”

“I write SF, when I choose to do so, because it seems the best medium in which to say whatever I want to say at that moment,” he wrote on his website . “And, sometimes, when I don’t write SF, I don’t write it not only because other images and vocabularies have seized my imagination” but also because of “the stigma that still attaches to such work.”

Michael Lawson Bishop was born on Nov. 12, 1945, in Lincoln, Neb., where his father, Leotis Bishop, was stationed with the Army Air Forces. His mother, Maxine (Matison) Bishop, later worked in the personnel department at McConnell Air Force Base near Wichita, Kan.

His father’s military career kept the family moving around when Michael was young, and after his parents divorced in 1951, he split his time between them — a peripatetic experience, he later said, which fueled his interest in imaginative fiction.

He studied English at the University of Georgia, graduating in 1967 and receiving a master's degree in the same subject a year later. He taught English at the U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School, then at the University of Georgia in Athens.

He began writing short stories in the late 1960s, and at first he shied away from science fiction.

“When I started writing, I submitted to literary markets that returned my stories with preprinted rejections,” he wrote on his website. “A friend advised me to try the SF markets, my fifth submission sold, and, voilà, I was a science-fiction writer.”

His first story, “Piñon Fall,” appeared in 1970 in Galaxy Science Fiction magazine, and within a few years his work had appeared in most of the major sci-fi publications. He left teaching in 1974 to write full time, though he returned to the classroom between 1996 and 2012, when he taught at LaGrange College in Georgia.

He married Jeri Whitaker in 1969. Along with their daughter, she survives him, as do two grandchildren; his stepbrother, Robert Willis; and his stepsister, Barbara Reese.

Mr. Bishop’s son, Jamie, a graphic artist, illustrated the covers for several of his books. In 2007, while teaching at Virginia Tech, Jamie was among the 32 people killed by a gunman on campus.

Mr. Bishop and his wife became advocates for gun control, at one point traveling to the Georgia State Capitol to testify against a bill that would make it easier to carry concealed weapons in public.

The law passed, but Mr. Bishop found other ways to rail against gun culture. In 2015, he published “Of Rattlesnakes and Men” in the magazine Asimov’s Science Fiction.

That story posits a world in which gunpowder was never invented, but scientists have figured out a way to bioengineer venomous snakes to act as weapons. The story focuses on a fictional town in Georgia that mandates that all residents carry a snake in public, for self-defense.

“It’s no more over the top than the positions our legislators take on this issue, in the way that they want to put guns in every possible venue — whether it’s bars or churches or schools,” Mr. Bishop told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution in 2015. “Everywhere.”

The story is obvious satire, only barely concealing the rage Mr. Bishop felt over his son’s murder — and rage, he said, was a thread running through all his work.

“The human condition, along with ignorance and/or greed, continually triggers brutality,” he told Infinity Plus. “I have no shortage of outrage, and outrage often fuels my fiction.”

Clay Risen is an obituaries reporter for The Times. Previously, he was a senior editor on the Politics desk and a deputy op-ed editor on the Opinion desk. He is the author, most recently, of “American Rye: A Guide to the Nation’s Original Spirit.” More about Clay Risen