Books of the Month January 2026

Books of the Month

January

Welcome to this month’s hand-picked selection of books and win all 8 titles in our competition.

Whether you’re craving spine-tingling mysteries, heart-fluttering romances, or stories that transport you through time and across the globe, we’ve got something to spark every reader. Elegant historical dramas, cosy small-town whodunits, contemporary love stories with a twist, it's all in our collection.

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A Dangerous Train of Thought by Faith Martin Step into Yorkshire, 1926, where gentleman ghost-hunter Arbuthnot 'Arbie' Swift and his friend Val are heading to Cleeves Lea Manor for what promises to be a lavish weekend party. The lady of the house, a devoted fan of Arbie’s books, is eager to show him off to her distinguished guests. But when whispers of a “ghost train spitting fire” emerge, and guests start dying, Arbie finds himself in the middle of a real murder investigation. Can he and Val uncover the truth before it’s too late? A clever, atmospheric mix of mystery and period charm. Published by HarperCollins, 15th January 2026. £16.99 Hardback. Order here

The Mysterious Affair of Judith Potts by Robert Thorogood Murder, secrets, and small-town scandal collide in Marlow as Judith tries to keep her past under wraps. When a footballer and a thriller writer are found dead, Judith, along with Suzie and Becks, must untangle a web of lies and danger. But with Judith keeping secrets of her own, the Marlow Murder Club faces more than just solving crimes, it could mean losing each other. Tense, witty, and full of twists, this one keeps you guessing until the end. Published by HarperCollins, 15th January 2026. £16.99 Hardback. Order here

A Taste for Murder by Matt Baker Widowed DCI Joe Mottram looks forward to a summer in Capri with his teenage daughter, Angelica, hoping for family bonding and a touch of peace. But the island is anything but quiet: when a British tourist turns up dead at a famous landmark, Joe joins forces with local detective Lara to investigate. With a second body appearing and shadows lurking beneath Capri’s idyllic surface, Joe must protect his family while uncovering dark secrets. A gripping, atmospheric mystery set in a breathtaking location. Published by Michael Joseph, 15th January 2026 £18.99 Hardback. Order here

An American Scandal by Theresa Howes Newport, 1895. Madeline Crosby and her devoted brother Hugh escape the snobbery of New York society to their inherited summer home, seeking a fresh start. But Madeline’s past isn’t so easy to hide, attention from the wrong man and society’s judgment threaten everything. Can she keep her secrets buried and still allow herself to love? Full of historical elegance, tension, and romance, this story is perfect for fans of scandal, society, and heart-stopping intrigue. Published by HarperCollins, 29th January 2026 £9.99 Paperback. Order here

Every Lifetime After by Jennifer Ross Can love survive every lifetime? Hollywood star Claudia Baxter arrives at a Yorkshire estate for a new project, only to slip into the life of her heroine, and into a past she never imagined. Radio operative Iris Winterton, watching a plane take her lifelong love into the unknown, knows tragedy awaits. Together, Claudia and Iris must unravel their connection across time, discovering secrets bigger than they could have imagined. A beautifully romantic, time-twisting journey through love and destiny.  Published by HarperCollins, 15th January 2026 £16.99 Hardback. Order here

Night Rider by Sloane Fletcher Hollywood star Nina Keller comes to Hunt Ranch seeking refuge from her past, hoping to find herself again. Maverick Hunt, the kind-hearted cowboy, isn’t part of her plan, but soon Nina finds safety, comfort, and maybe even love with him and his young daughter, Poppy. As her past catches up and danger looms, Nina and Maverick must decide if they’re willing to face the world together. A heartfelt romance full of tension, courage, and swoon-worthy moments. Published by HarperCollins, 29th January 2026 £9.99 Paperback. Order here

The Dating Pact by Lulu Morris What happens when a fake romance starts feeling too real? Nurse Ellie’s accidental night with actor Alex King turns into tabloid fodder, forcing them into a high-profile “plus-one” arrangement for a glamorous wedding. Surrounded by celebrities and paparazzi, Ellie struggles to keep her own identity while navigating Alex’s increasingly real affections. A fun, flirty, and heartfelt story about love, friendship, and finding yourself amid the chaos. Published by Canelo, 15th January 2026. £9.99 Paperback. Order here

Hot Desk by Laura Dickerman Two timelines, one gripping story. In 1982, intern Jane Kinloch navigates the literary world, friendship, and unexpected romance at East River Review. Fast forward to 2022, and Rebecca Blume must share a “hot desk” with rival editor Ben Heath, competing to publish a mysterious, unpublished manuscript that hides a decades-old secret about her mother. Full of witty banter, sexy tension, and a heartfelt exploration of family and ambition, this novel weaves past and present into a charming, unforgettable tale. Publisehd by Michael Joseph, 22nd January 2026. £14.99 Paperback. Order here

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