New year, new books, and an excuse to spend summer curled up with your next epic read. January is serving up a fresh batch of fantasy adventures to fuel your imagination. From long-awaited sequels to dazzling debuts, these books are packed with action, romance, and, let’s be honest, a touch of drama. Ready to fill your TBR? Let’s go!
Onyx Storm
Author: Rebecca Yarros
Goodreads Rating: 4.43/5
Genres: Epic Fantasy, Action, Adventure
Publication Date: 21 January, 2025
Page Count: 544 pages
ISBN: 9780349443768
Publisher: Piatkus
Dragons, danger and drama! If you’ve been counting down the days since finishing Iron Flame, you’re not alone. Onyx Storm, the third book in Rebecca Yarros’s The Empyrean series, picks up where we left Violet Sorrengail: navigating the deadly halls of Basgiath War College, balancing impossible choices, and, of course, dealing with a certain swoon-worthy rebellion leader (yes, we’re looking at you, Xaden). This series has been a whirlwind of action, romance, and dragons, and Onyx Storm promises to keep the heat coming. Whether you’re here for the battles, the betrayals, or just more moments with your favorite characters, this book is set to deliver.
What Early Readers Are Saying:
- While specific early reviews are limited, the anticipation for Onyx Storm is palpable among fans of the series.
- Readers are eager to discover Violet's second signet, with hints suggesting that clues were embedded in Iron Flame.
- The promise of new adventures, political intrigue, and, of course, more dragons has the fanbase buzzing with excitement.
Social Media Buzz:
- TikTok: Fans are dissecting every teaser and interview, with hashtags like #OnyxStorm and #FourthWingSeries trending daily.
- Instagram: Bookstagrammers are hyping their pre-orders with dragon-themed aesthetics and predictions for the series’ next twists.
Immortal
Author: Sue Lynn Tan
Goodreads Rating: 4.18/5 (based on early reviews)
Genres: Mythical Fantasy, Romance, Standalone
Publication Date: 16 January 2025
Page Count: 464 pages
ISBN: 9780008556327
Publisher: HarperCollins
Love, betrayal, and gods playing games—Immortal is bringing all the drama we didn’t know we needed. In this standalone set in the same world as Daughter of the Moon Goddess, Sue Lynn Tan introduces us to Liyen, a mortal queen caught in a web of dangerous alliances and forbidden magic. Oh, and did we mention the God of War? He’s equal parts swoon-worthy and deadly, and things get complicated fast. If you loved Tan’s lush writing and mythology-inspired world, Immortal promises to sweep you off your feet (and probably break your heart a little too). It’s a standalone, so you don’t need to commit to a series—just dive in and prepare to be enchanted.
What Early Readers Are Saying:
- Reviewers praise Tan's lyrical prose and the depth of the narrative, noting that Immortal offers a more serious tone with profound themes.
- Early readers highlight the novel's rich world-building and emotional resonance, with some describing it as a spellbinding standalone that captivates from start to finish.
- The intricate character dynamics and the blend of romance and mythology have been particularly well-received, with readers expressing admiration for the compelling storytelling.
Social Media Buzz:
- TikTok: Early ARC readers are sharing their emotional reactions under #ImmortalBook, praising Tan’s poetic style.
- Instagram: Gorgeous flat lays with celestial-inspired props and the stunning cover are dominating Bookstagram.
A Sea of Unspoken Things
Author: Adrienne Young
Goodreads Rating: 4.05/5
Genres: Fantasy, Mystery, Romance
Publication Date: 14 January 2025
Page Count: 288 pages
ISBN: 9781529433678
Publisher: Quercus Books
Secrets, magic, and a love story with an edge—Adrienne Young’s A Sea of Unspoken Things is shaping up to be one of her most atmospheric and emotional works yet. Set in a world where trust is fragile and betrayal lurks in the shadows, this tale promises an enchanting blend of romance and suspense that will keep readers hooked until the very last page.
What Early Readers Are Saying:
- Reviewers praise Young’s ability to craft an immersive, moody setting, calling this her most gripping work since Fable.
- The balance between the emotional love story and the slow-burning mystery is a standout for early readers.
- Fans love the richly drawn characters, describing their struggles and connections as raw and relatable.
Social Media Buzz:
- TikTok: Readers are sharing dreamy montages of oceanic-inspired visuals and theorising about the book’s twists under #ASeaOfUnspokenThings.
- Instagram: Aesthetic flat lays featuring waves, shells, and key quotes from the book are making waves among fantasy romance enthusiasts.
Lightfall
Author: Ed Crocker
Goodreads Rating: 4.05/5
Genres: Epic Fantasy, Adventure, Trilogy
Publication Date: 14 January 2025
Page Count: 384 pages
ISBN: 9781250287731
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Step into a world on the brink of collapse with Lightfall, the first book in Ed Crocker’s Everlands Trilogy. This epic fantasy promises ancient secrets, a reluctant hero, and a quest that could save—or doom—the magical Everlands. With sweeping landscapes and intricate world-building, Lightfall is shaping up to be a must-read for fans of sprawling, lore-heavy adventures.
What Early Readers Are Saying:
- Early reviews praise the lush descriptions and Crocker’s skill at creating a rich, lived-in world.
- Fans are comparing it to epic fantasy staples like Mistborn and The Priory of the Orange Tree, noting its balance of action, lore, and heart.
- Readers love the protagonist’s journey, describing it as deeply relatable while still carrying the weight of classic heroism.
Social Media Buzz:
- TikTok: The book’s map and lore are sparking discussions under #LightfallTrilogy, with fans sharing theories about the magic system.
- Instagram: Posts featuring fan art and detailed maps are gaining traction, showcasing the book’s stunning visual inspiration.
The Starlight Heir
Author: Amalie Howard
Genres: Fantasy Romance, Royal Intrigue
Goodreads Rating: 3.76/5
Publication Date: 7 January 2025
Page Count: 368 pages
ISBN: 978-0063355842
Publisher: HarperCollins
Royal intrigue, forbidden romance, and celestial magic—The Starlight Heir ticks all the fantasy romance boxes. This standalone introduces a princess torn between love and duty, navigating treacherous alliances and impossible choices that could shatter her kingdom.
What Early Readers Are Saying:
- Reviewers highlight the book’s swoon-worthy romance and its richly drawn court politics.
- Readers are praising the celestial magic as a fresh, unique twist that adds depth to the narrative.
- Fans of The Cruel Prince and Serpent & Dove are calling this a perfect pick for lovers of fantasy romance.
Social Media Buzz:
- TikTok: Fans are recreating dramatic moments from the book under #TheStarlightHeir.
- Instagram: Starry-themed aesthetics featuring the book’s stunning cover are trending in the fantasy romance community.
Your Next Great Adventure Awaits
From dragons and gods to forbidden love and epic quests, January 2025 is bursting with fantasy reads to satisfy every craving. Whether you’re continuing a beloved series (Onyx Storm) or exploring a dazzling debut (Lightfall), these books are sure to transport you to magical worlds.
Which book are you grabbing first? Let us know—and happy reading!