//13 New Fantasy and Science Fiction Books to Read in January 2025//
Ambitious literary sci-fi, martial arts fantasy, LitRPG, vampires, fae, myth retellings, and more — 2025 is starting in style with a bunch of exciting new genre books releasing this month!
1. Breath of the Dragon by Shannon Lee & Fonda Lee (Breathmarked #1) — Jan. 7
Breath of the Dragon by Shannon Lee & Fonda Lee |
Breath of the Dragon kicks off the Breathmarked series, blending martial arts fantasy and high-stakes competition. Co-authored by Fonda Lee (The Green Bone Saga) and Shannon Lee, daughter of Bruce Lee, it follows Jun, a young warrior entering the Guardian Tournament despite lacking the mystical breathmark that grants power. Facing incredible odds, Jun's journey leads to a conflict far greater than personal glory.
2. Mother of Rome by Lauren J. A. Bear — Jan. 7
This mythological retelling focuses on Rhea Silvia, the mother of Rome's founders, Romulus and Remus. After her father's kingdom falls, Rhea is sent to the Vestal Virgins but mysteriously conceives twins. Lauren J. A. Bear reimagines the legendary rise of Rome through Rhea's eyes, blending divine intrigue and human resilience.
3. The Murderbot Diaries Vol. 1-3 by Martha Wells — Jan. 7
Martha Wells' acclaimed Murderbot Diaries returns in new trade paperback compilations. These collections make it easier than ever to follow the self-aware security android navigating human interactions while tackling galactic threats. With an Apple TV+ adaptation in the works, now is the perfect time to dive into this award-winning series.
4. Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor — Jan. 14
Visionary author Nnedi Okorafor presents Death of the Author, a metafictional novel about Zelu, a disabled African American writer whose sci-fi novel catapults her to fame—at the cost of her original vision. Okorafor weaves together reality and fiction in this ambitious exploration of identity, creativity, and success.
5. Lightfall by Ed Crocker (The Everlands Trilogy #1) — Jan. 14
Lightfall introduces readers to First Light, the last vampire bastion under siege by mysterious forces. Palace maid Sam uncovers a deadly secret tied to the ruler's murder, drawing her into a web of rebellion, magic, and betrayal. Fans of Jay Kristoff's Empire of the Vampire will devour this dark fantasy debut.
6. Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix — Jan. 14
Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix. |
Set in the 1970s, Grady Hendrix's horror novel follows Fern, a pregnant teenager sent to a restrictive home for unwed mothers. When Fern and other girls discover a book of witchcraft, they seize power with chilling consequences. Hendrix blends occult horror with sharp social commentary in this unsettling tale.
7. Level: Unknown by David Dalglish — Jan. 14
David Dalglish ventures into LitRPG with Level: Unknown, where research cadet Nick is drawn into the deadly game-world of Yensere each time he sleeps. To survive the monstrous threats and unravel the world's secrets, Nick must adapt and grow stronger, facing peril at every turn.
8. The Rainfall Market by You Yeong-Gwang, translated by Slin Jung — Jan. 21
This cozy fantasy follows Serin, a lonely teen who discovers the magical Rainfall Market, open just once a year. With a magical cat guide, Serin explores whimsical shops and faces a life-changing choice—but if she doesn't decide in a week, she'll vanish into the market forever. Fans of Spirited Away will adore this charming tale.
9. Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros (The Empyrean #3) — Jan. 21
Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros |
In the third installment of The Empyrean series, Violet Sorrengail must lead a dangerous mission beyond Basgiath War College to save Navarre from destruction. With dragons, romance, and treacherous alliances, Onyx Storm raises the stakes in this gripping fantasy saga.
10. A Crown So Silver by Lyra Selene (Fair Folk #2) — Jan. 21
A Crown So Silver by Lyra Selene |
In the sequel to A Feather So Black, Fia must enter a deadly Tournament of Kings to defeat her murderous sister. Set in the treacherous fae realm, A Crown So Silver combines magic, betrayal, and revenge as Fia confronts the cost of vengeance.
11. Motheater by Linda H. Codega — Jan. 21
Motheater by Linda H. Codega |
Debut author Linda H. Codega's Motheater is a queer Appalachian fantasy where Bennie Mattox investigates mysterious deaths in a mining town. Partnering with Motheater, a witch bound to the mountain, Bennie must choose sides in a battle between industry and nature.
12. The Outcast Mage by Annabel Campbell (The Shattered Lands #1) — Jan. 28
The Outcast Mage by Annabel Campbell |
In the glass city of Amoria, magic rules, and Naila teeters on the edge of banishment after a tragic accident. Rescued by the powerful mage Haelius Akana, Naila is thrust into political intrigue and ancient dangers that threaten the city's fragile peace.
13. Fire & Blood by George R.R. Martin — Folio Society Limited Edition — Jan. 28
This luxurious collector's edition of Fire & Blood delves into House Targaryen's rich history. With new illustrations and premium design, this edition is a must-have for Game of Thrones fans and fantasy collectors alike.
January 2025 is brimming with captivating fantasy and science fiction reads. Whether you're in the mood for epic battles, dark conspiracies, or whimsical adventures, these books offer something for every reader. Happy reading!
.jpg)
0 Comments