11 New Books and 4 Book-to-Screen Adaptations for January
Kick off the New Year with these exciting new reads plus adaptations worth considering this month.
Weekend Edition: Start your weekend with curated book lists, reading tips, and lifestyle inspiration delivered every Friday.
The Weekend Edition: 11 New Books and 4 Book-to-Screen Adaptations for January
Hi Bookish Besties!
Happy New Year! As we start the month of January and 2025, there’s no better time to refresh your TBR pile and check out what’s new on screen. This week, I’ve rounded up eleven new books I’ve read and loved for you to add to your reading list and four book-to-screen adaptations worth considering.
Whether you’re diving into a heartfelt romance, a gripping dystopian tale, or a thrilling adaptation, there’s something here to inspire your weekend plans.
Let’s jump in!
11 New Books to Read in January
Here are eleven January reads spanning everything from romance and mystery to horror and dystopian fiction, each offering a unique story to savor.
The Heart of Winter by Jonathan Evison
This emotional novel spans the 70-year marriage of Abe Winter and Ruth Warneke, following their journey from contrasting college days to life on a Bainbridge Island farm. As Ruth faces a serious health crisis, Abe takes on the role of caregiver, prompting reflections on their shared history. Readers can expect a tender and insightful exploration of love’s endurance through the challenges of aging and caregiving.
You can get a copy on Amazon or Bookshop
How to Sleep at Night by Elizabeth Harris
Ethan Keller, a gay Republican running for Congress, creates tension with his Democratic husband, Gabe, and their community. Set against the backdrop of a tumultuous campaign, the story delves into the complexities of identity, political ambition, and family dynamics. This contemporary novel offers a compelling exploration of personal and political struggles in today’s divided world.
You can get a copy on Amazon or Bookshop
All the Water in the World by Eiren Caffall
In a future where New York City is submerged, 13-year-old Nonie and her family live atop the American Museum of Natural History, preserving humanity’s artifacts. When a superstorm forces them to flee, their journey up the Hudson reveals communities adapting to environmental collapse. This dystopian tale explores survival, cultural preservation, and the strength of familial bonds amid climate disaster.
You can get a copy on Amazon or Bookshop
Homeseeking by Karissa Chen
Spanning six decades and multiple countries, this debut novel follows Suchi and Haiwen, childhood sweethearts from 1940s Shanghai, as their lives are shaped by war and migration. Despite time and distance, their connection endures, offering a poignant exploration of love, identity, and belonging within the Chinese diaspora.
You can get a copy on Amazon or Bookshop
The Capital of Dreams by Heather O’Neill
Set in the small country of Elysia, this dark dystopian fairy tale follows 14-year-old Sofia as she embarks on a dangerous journey to protect her mother’s manuscript during an invasion. Accompanied by a talking goose, Sofia navigates war-torn landscapes, encountering magical realism and harsh truths. This novel explores survival, the preservation of culture, and mother-daughter relationships.
You can get a copy on Amazon or Bookshop
We Lived on the Horizon by Erika Swyler
In the walled city of Bulwark, governed by AI, bioprosthetist Saint Enita Malovis works to create a physical form for her household AI while unraveling a fellow Saint’s mysterious erasure. Blending romance, mystery, and science fiction, this dystopian novel delves into connection, identity, and revolution in a richly imagined world.
You can get a copy on Amazon or Bookshop
Tell Me What You Did by Carter Wilson
True-crime podcaster Poe Webb becomes the target of a man claiming to have murdered her mother. When he threatens her loved ones unless she confesses to a past crime, Poe must confront guilt, revenge, and justice. This psychological thriller keeps readers on edge with its gripping exploration of secrets and survival.
You can get a copy on Amazon or Bookshop
I Think They Love You by Julian Winters
To prove he’s ready for a leadership role, Denzel fabricates a relationship but soon turns to his ex-boyfriend for a fake dating arrangement. As unresolved feelings resurface, this heartfelt romance explores second chances, family expectations, and personal growth, all with Winters’ trademark humor and emotional depth.
You can get a copy on Amazon or Bookshop
Yin Yang Love Song by Lauren Kung Jessen
Traditional Chinese herbalist Chryssy Hua Williams agrees to a fake relationship with cellist Vin Chao to boost their careers, but genuine emotions soon surface. This heartwarming romance blends cultural traditions with modern complexities, exploring themes of love, family, and personal growth.
You can get a copy on Amazon or Bookshop
Cold Kitchen by Caroline Eden
This travel memoir blends culinary exploration with seasonal reflections, as Eden recreates dishes inspired by her journeys across Eastern Europe and Central Asia. With personal anecdotes and evocative descriptions, the book is a sensory treat for travel and food enthusiasts.
You can get a copy on Amazon or Bookshop
Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix
Set in 1970s Florida, this horror novel follows rebellious teen Neva Craven as she discovers an occult book that empowers her and fellow residents to challenge oppression. Hendrix combines supernatural elements with dark humor to explore autonomy, rebellion, and the consequences of power.
You can get a copy on Amazon or Bookshop
4 Book-to-Screen Adaptations worth considering in January
While I haven’t personally watched these, as they’re upcoming, and I can’t vouch for them, I still think they’re worth your consideration as they caught my attention.
Goosebumps: The Vanishing
R.L. Stine’s beloved horror series returns with a new season starring David Schwimmer and a thrilling story of deadly plants wreaking havoc.
(Season 2 Premiere, Disney+/Hulu, January 10)
XO, Kitty
Jenny Han’s To All the Boys universe continues with Kitty navigating romance and self-discovery at the Korean Independent School of Seoul.
(Season 2 Premiere, Netflix, January 16)
The Night Agent
Matthew Quirk’s political thriller series ramps up as FBI agent Peter Sutherland uncovers conspiracies tied to the White House.
(Season 2 Premiere, Netflix, January 23)
A Study in Scarlet: Watson
This modern retelling gives Sherlock Holmes’ sidekick center stage as Dr. John Watson tackles medical mysteries and a haunting connection to Moriarty.
(CBS, January 26)
What’s On Your List?
Are you planning to read any of these books or watch these adaptations? Let me know in the comments! I’d love to hear what’s on your radar this month.
Also, if you enjoyed this list and any of these tips, please share it with a fellow book lover or post about it on social media. Sharing helps keep the Weekend Edition free and introduces our growing community to even more readers.
Until next time, slow down and savor the little things.
Happy reading!
Victoria
P.S. Get your guide to a magical winter reading season:
