Reading a great book suspends you in a world of your making. It allows you to travel anywhere, be anyone, and experience things you have only dreamed of. It teaches you about others—their likes and dislikes—and enhances critical thinking, expands your knowledge, grows your vocabulary, and increases your empathy toward others. Best of all, it lowers stress levels!

I love the many different genres of books and have read many new kinds of books in the last few years—this has been a goal of mine. I hope this list helps you explore new reading options and find a genre that you love but never knew existed. I know that I did! I hope these recommendations help you in your quest to find that perfect book to start off 2026.

 

The Lost Bride Trilogy – Nora Roberts
Inheritance · The Mirror · The Seven Rings

This is a trilogy that I could not put down! You will be taken away on an adventure. Fantasy is woven into the story, along with history, true friendship, family, romance, ghosts, and food.

 

What We Did to Survive – Megan Lally

This is a young adult thriller with lots of suspenseful twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat. You may want to get a snack, because you won’t be able to put this down!
Release date: January 6, 2026

 

City of Bones – Cassandra Clare

In this LGBTQ+ young adult fantasy, Alec deals with evil spirits, warlocks, fairies, and Shadowhunters who all work tirelessly to make New York a safe place.

 

The Tenant – Freida McFadden

Freida McFadden has a slew of psychological thrillers, and this one tells the story of Blake Porter after he is fired from his extremely high-powered job as a VP of marketing. What could happen when your whole world changes? A job lost, love that lasts forever, breakfast cereal eaten without approval, and lots of blood! This is a fierce story about what could go wrong when sharing a home with someone.

Also Coming Soon:
Dear Debbie – Freida McFadden (January release, published by Poisoned Pen Press)
This psychological thriller follows Debbie, an ex–advice columnist who, after being fired, decides to take life by the horns.

 

Fangirl Down – Tessa Bailey

Up-and-coming golfer Wells Whitaker has finally “shanked” one for the last time. After going home, he decides that may have been the wrong choice. Josephine is a faithful fan, but after he quits, she realizes she may not have been looking at the whole game. To come out less than par, they find new ways of playing the game.

 

Someone Is in the Attic – Andrea Mara

This thriller is about a family who has just moved into a luxury gated community in Ireland. When they see an online video filmed in their home, you never know who’s watching!

 

Onyx Storm – Rebecca Yarros

Violet must do what it takes to save the love of her family, her dragons, her home, and him. This story is filled with power, magic, and truth throughout. Who can Violet trust?

 

Biographies & Non-Fiction

Lastly, I find a great way to start the New Year is by learning about someone. Here are a few autobiographies to recommend:

Future Boy: Back to the Future and My Journey Through the Space-Time Continuum – Michael J. Fox

 

What in the World?!: A Southern Woman’s Guide to Laughing at Life’s Unexpected Curveballs and Beautiful Blessings – Leanne Morgan

This is a lovely guide to life and motherhood!

 

I hope you catch a glimpse of what’s out there for you—fiction, non-fiction, biographies, and more. The choices are unlimited!