The first week of January is bringing a strong lineup of new book releases across multiple genres — from thrillers and romantic fantasy to historical fiction and cozy mysteries. Whether you’re starting the year craving suspense, adventure, or something comforting, this week offers plenty of exciting options to kick off your 2026 reading list.
🌟 My Most Anticipated Books of the Week
- The First Time I Saw Him — Laura Dave
- The Storm — Rachel Hawkins
- Rings of Fate — Melissa de la Cruz
- Skylark — Paula McLain
- Mayhem on the Marzipan Express — Rebecca Connolly
📖 Book Synopses & Genres
The First Time I Saw Him
Release Date: January 6, 2026
Genre: Mystery • Suspense • Fiction
This highly anticipated sequel to The Last Thing He Told Me continues the story fans have been waiting for. With unanswered questions and familiar faces returning, this novel promises more tension, emotional depth, and suspense — especially with Owen reappearing in the story.
The Storm
Release Date: January 6, 2026
Genre: Thriller • Gothic Suspense
The story follows Geneva Corliss, a woman accused of a decades-old murder who is determined to prove her innocence. Dark, atmospheric, and emotionally charged, this thriller leans into gothic suspense and long-buried secrets.
Rings of Fate
Release Date: January 6, 2026
Genre: Romantic Fantasy
A slow-burn romance wrapped in a fake engagement trope, deadly magic, and high-stakes adventure. This one blends romance and fantasy beautifully and feels perfect for readers who enjoy emotional tension alongside magical danger.
Skylark
Release Date: January 6, 2026
Genre: Historical Fiction
Told through dual timelines, Skylark follows a young woman dreaming of creating her own masterpieces who finds herself imprisoned in the Salpêtrière asylum, alongside a medical student risking his career to help his neighbors escape the Nazis. Powerful, emotional, and deeply human.
Mayhem on the Marzipan Express
Release Date: January 6, 2026
Genre: Cozy Mystery • Culinary Mystery
The second book in the Clair Walker Mystery series delivers comfort-read energy with a side of intrigue. Cozy mysteries are perfect for easing into the year, and this one adds a fun culinary twist.
▶️ My First Read of the Week
My first pick from this list will be The First Time I Saw Him by Laura Dave.
As a continuation of The Last Thing He Told Me, this book already has me emotionally invested. Just knowing that Owen reappears in the story was enough to push this to the top of my list. I’m excited to dive back into this world and see how the story unfolds next.
🌱 Final Thoughts
Week one of January sets a strong tone for new book releases. With multiple genres represented and several highly anticipated titles dropping on the same day, this feels like a great moment to ease back into reading while the new year unfolds.
Whether you’re in the mood for suspense, romance, fantasy, or something cozy, there’s truly something here for every reader.
The Rooted Lens 
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