- January 2026 offers a diverse lineup of new book releases for readers.
- Former Nickelodeon star Jennette McCurdy debuts her first fiction novel, 'Half His Age,' while Alice Feeney releases 'My Husband's Wife.' Fantasy fans can look forward to Elise Kova's 'Dragon Cursed' and Jim Butcher's 'Twelve Months.' For those interested in a modern twist on a classic, Katie Bernet's 'Beth Is Dead' reimagines 'Little Women' as a mystery.
- Additionally, Audible has reintroduced a promotional deal offering three months of its Premium Plus plan for $0.99 per month.
- This selection includes standalone novels and continuations of popular series across genres such as fantasy, romance, and psychological thrillers.
Quick Summary
Readers have a wide selection of new titles to anticipate this month, spanning genres from fantasy to psychological thrillers. The lineup features the fiction debut of Jennette McCurdy, alongside new releases from established authors like Alice Feeney and Jim Butcher. In addition to individual book launches, audiobook listeners can take advantage of a significant discount on Audible subscriptions.
Highlights include:
- Half His Age by Jennette McCurdy
- My Husband's Wife by Alice Feeney
- Dragon Cursed by Elise Kova
- Twelve Months by Jim Butcher
- Beth Is Dead by Katie Bernet
Fiction Debuts and Psychological Thrillers
January marks a significant release for Jennette McCurdy, known for her memoir I’m Glad My Mom Died. She transitions to fiction with Half His Age, scheduled for release on January 20. The novel follows seventeen-year-old Waldo, who becomes fixated on her creative writing teacher, Mr. Korgy. The story is described as an insightful commentary on teenage girlhood.
Thriller author Alice Feeney returns with My Husband's Wife. The plot centers on a woman who returns from a run to find her key no longer fits her front door. Inside, a woman resembling her is opening the door, claiming to be the homeowner's wife. The book releases on January 20 in the US and January 27 in the UK.
Fantasy and YA Releases
Fantasy enthusiasts have several options this month. Elise Kova releases Dragon Cursed on January 6. This Young Adult novel introduces a world where dragons have taken over, leaving only one human city. The story follows Isola, who faces brutal tests to separate the Dragon Cursed from dragon hunters. This is the start of a new series from the author of Arcana Academy.
On January 20 (UK) and January 27 (US), Jim Butcher releases Twelve Months, the eighteenth installment of The Dresden Files. The story picks up after Harry Dresden saved Chicago, leaving the city to recover while he deals with ghouls, a dying brother, and a promise to a vampire.
Shen Tao offers a standalone fantasy novel, The Poet Empress, releasing on January 20. The story is set in a world where women are forbidden from learning and reading.
Retellings and Audiobook Deals
Katie Bernet provides a contemporary twist on a literary classic with Beth Is Dead. Reimagining Little Women, the mystery novel posits that Beth March has been found dead following a New Year's Eve party. The surviving sisters must investigate suspects, including Amy's mentor and Meg's best friend. The release dates are January 6 in the US and January 15 in the UK.
For audiobook listeners, Audible has reintroduced a promotional deal. The offer provides three months of the Premium Plus plan for $0.99 per month in the US and £0.99 per month in the UK. This deal matches previous Black Friday discounts and is available until January 21 in the US and January 29 in the UK. After the promotional period, the plan auto-renews at the standard monthly cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Jennette McCurdy's new book about?
Her fiction debut, 'Half His Age,' follows seventeen-year-old Waldo, who is fixated on her creative writing teacher, Mr. Korgy.
Are there any audiobook deals available in January 2026?
Yes, Audible is offering three months of its Premium Plus plan for $0.99 per month in the US and £0.99 per month in the UK.
Which fantasy books are releasing in January 2026?
Releases include 'Dragon Cursed' by Elise Kova, 'Twelve Months' by Jim Butcher, and 'The Poet Empress' by Shen Tao.
