
Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros
Like most people, thanks to Booktok, I became fully invested in the Empyrean series. I have had Onyx Storm on pre-order for months, and can’t wait to read it next month when it is released. The 21st January can’t arrive soon enough! Onyx Storm is the third book in the Empyrean series, following Fourth Wing and Iron Flame. It continues the story of Violet Sorrengail, a young woman who joins the elite Basgiath War College to become a dragon rider. In this installment, Violet and her companions face new challenges and dangers as they navigate political intrigue, confront powerful enemies, and grapple with the complexities of their relationships. All with added romantasy to boost!
Why you might want to read it:
- Epic Fantasy with Romance: The “Empyrean” series blends thrilling fantasy elements with a captivating romance, offering a unique and engaging reading experience.
- Compelling Characters: Violet is a strong and relatable protagonist, and the supporting cast is equally well-developed and intriguing.
- Intense Action and Adventure: Expect high-stakes battles, daring escapes, and perilous journeys that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
- World-Building: Yarros creates a rich and immersive world filled with dragons, magic, and intricate political systems.
- Fans of Fantasy Romance: If you enjoy stories like “Throne of Glass” or “A Court of Thorns and Roses,” you’ll likely find the “Empyrean” series to your liking.
Pre-order here. Due for release on 21 January 2025.

I’ve been obsessed with The Hunger Games series for years, and this love of the books has been reignited when my son, Noah, recently started reading them (he’s 12, BTW, and a very good reader who found the first instalment more than accessible). Sunrise on the Reaping is the fifth book in The Hunger Games series and a prequel to the original trilogy. It is set twenty-four years before the events of The Hunger Games, on the morning of the reaping for the Fiftieth Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell. The novel delves into the lives of various characters in District 12 as they prepare for the reaping and face the challenges of their daily lives in a post-war society.
Why you might want to read it:
- Expanded Hunger Games Universe: If you’re a fan of The Hunger Games series, Sunrise on the Reaping offers a deeper look into the world of Panem and the events leading up to the iconic games.
- New Perspectives: The novel introduces new characters and explores familiar settings from different angles, providing fresh insights into the dystopian world created by Suzanne Collins.
- Social Commentary: Collins’ writing often touches on themes of social inequality, political oppression, and the impact of war on society, making Sunrise on the Reaping a thought-provoking read.
- Intriguing Premise: The fiftieth Hunger Games, with its special rules and historical significance, promises a unique and suspenseful narrative.
- Completion of the Series: For dedicated fans, Sunrise on the Reaping offers a sense of closure and completion to the Hunger Games saga.
Pre-order here. Due for release on 18th March 2025.

After reading Americanah back in 2022, I’ve been a fan of Adichie’s writing, and I can’t wait to read their next offering. Dream Count, by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, is a novel that explores the lives of four Nigerian women as they navigate love, loss, and the complexities of life in the midst of a pandemic. Dream Count promises to be a powerful and moving exploration of the human condition, inviting readers to reflect on their own lives and relationships.
Why you might want to read it:
- Adichie’s masterful storytelling: Adichie is a renowned author known for her insightful and captivating prose. Dream Count showcases her ability to craft compelling characters and weave together their stories in a thought-provoking way.
- Complex female characters: The novel delves into the lives of four distinct women, each facing unique challenges and grappling with their own desires and regrets. Their stories offer a nuanced and multifaceted portrayal of the female experience.
- Timely themes: Dream Count explores themes of love, loss, identity, and resilience in the context of a global pandemic, making it a relevant and timely read.
- Adichie’s signature style: Fans of Adichie’s previous works like Half of a Yellow Sun and Americanah will appreciate her signature blend of social commentary, cultural exploration, and intimate storytelling.
Pre-order here. Due for release on 4th March 2025.

There’s something satisfying about cracking open a pyschology or self-help book in January, isn’t there? Open When is a self-help book designed to provide support and guidance during moments of stress, overwhelm, or self-doubt. It is structured as a collection of “letters” from Dr. Julie to the reader, each addressing a specific scenario or emotion. The book encourages self-reflection and offers practical strategies for managing challenges and building resilience.
Why you might want to read it:
- Accessible Self-Help: Dr Julie’s writing style is known for being relatable, empathetic, and easy to understand. The book is designed to be a practical resource for anyone seeking support.
- Personalized Guidance: The “letter” format allows readers to choose the chapters that resonate with their current needs, providing a sense of personalized support.
- Actionable Advice: Dr Julie offers specific tools and techniques for managing stress, building self-esteem, and navigating difficult emotions.
- Focus on Mental Health: The book promotes self-care and encourages readers to prioritize their mental well-being.
Please note: Open When is intended to be a supportive resource, but it is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment. If you are experiencing significant distress, please consult with a qualified mental health professional.
Pre-order here. Due for release on 2nd January 2025.

A book related to my favourite season, has got me feeling very excited! Spring, by Michael Morpurgo, is a memoir celebrating the beauty and wonder of the season. Morpurgo, a renowned children’s author, shares his deep love for the natural world as he observes the cycle of life unfolding on his farm in Devon, England. This is set to be a heartwarming and insightful celebration of the natural world that will resonate with readers of all ages.
Why you might want to read it:
- Morpurgo’s lyrical prose: Known for his evocative writing style, Morpurgo paints a vivid picture of the natural world, capturing the essence of spring with poetic language.
- Celebration of nature: The book is a love letter to the natural world, inspiring readers to appreciate the beauty of the changing seasons and the delicate balance of life.
- Morpurgo’s personal touch: Morpurgo shares personal anecdotes and reflections, offering a glimpse into his own connection with nature and the joys of rural life.
- Ideal for nature lovers: If you enjoy spending time outdoors and appreciate the beauty of the natural world, Spring is a delightful and inspiring read.
- Perfect for a springtime read: The book’s themes of renewal, growth, and hope make it a perfect choice for reading during the spring season.
Pre-order here. Due for release 20th March 2025.

Jojo Moyes books simply warm my soul. I love her writing style and can’t wait to get lost in the pages of her next book. We All Live Here is a novel that follows Lila, a woman whose life is turned upside down when her marriage falls apart and her husband moves on. Lila must navigate the complexities of co-parenting, dealing with her own heartbreak, and rediscovering herself in the midst of a blended family. If you enjoy contemporary fiction with strong female characters and heartwarming stories, We All Live Here is definitely worth checking out.
Why you might want to read it:
- Relatable themes: The novel explores themes of love, loss, family, and second chances, which are universal and relatable to many readers.
- Compelling characters: Moyes creates well-developed characters with distinct personalities and flaws, making them easy to connect with and root for.
- Witty and heartwarming: The novel is infused with Moyes’ trademark humour and warmth, offering a light-hearted and uplifting read.
- Thought-provoking exploration of family: We All Live Here challenges traditional notions of family and explores the complexities of blended families in a nuanced and insightful way.
Pre-order here. Due for release on 11th February 2025.

This is one book that I am very excited about. Yellowface was my favourite book of 2024, and I was enjoying Babel until I put it on hold to read lots of Christmas fiction in December! Katabasis is a dark academia fantasy novel by R.F. Kuang. The story follows two rival graduate students at Cambridge University who must embark on a perilous journey to the underworld to rescue the soul of their beloved professor. As they descend into the depths of hell, they confront their own personal demons and the corrupting influence of power. If you enjoy fantasy novels with a touch of darkness and a focus on character development, Katabasis is going to be one for you.
Why you might want to read it:
- Kuang’s signature style: Fans of Kuang’s previous works will appreciate her signature blend of historical fiction, fantasy elements, and sharp social commentary.
- Compelling premise: The idea of two rivals embarking on a journey to the underworld is both intriguing and suspenseful.
- Complex characters: Kuang creates well-developed characters with their own motivations and flaws, making them both relatable and engaging.
- Exploration of dark themes: The novel delves into dark themes such as ambition, betrayal, and the corrupting influence of power.
Pre-order here. Due for release 28th August 2025.

I only got into Holly Jackson’s books during the summer, and always felt a little too old to be reading them, so I am very excited to read her first Adult Fiction offering. It’s already on pre-order, just in time for my summer holiday in July! Not Quite Dead Yet is a dark and suspenseful thriller by Holly Jackson. It follows Jet Mason, a young woman who is told she has only seven days to live after a violent attack leaves her with a catastrophic brain injury. Determined to make the most of her remaining time, Jet embarks on a desperate quest to solve her own murder, uncovering a web of secrets and lies within her privileged social circle.
Why you might want to read it:
- Fast-paced and suspenseful: Jackson is known for her gripping storytelling, and Not Quite Dead Yet is no exception. The novel is filled with twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end.
- Unique premise: The concept of a character trying to solve their own murder is highly original and adds a layer of intrigue to the story.
- Compelling characters: Jet is a complex and relatable protagonist, and the supporting characters are equally well-developed and intriguing.
- Fans of thrillers: If you enjoy suspenseful mysteries with dark undertones, Not Quite Dead Yet is definitely worth checking out.
Pre-order here. Due for release 17th July 2025.

I’ve been influenced by I’m a Celebrity. I’ve just downloaded the first in this series for my Kindle (it’s free at the minute) and I’m intrigued to read the second instalment upon it’s release. Death on Location is the second book in the Canon Clement mystery series by Rev. Richard Coles. It follows the story of Canon Daniel Clement, a vicar in the fictional village of Champton, who finds himself embroiled in a murder investigation when a film crew descends upon the village to shoot a period drama. As the cast and crew settle in, a member of the production team is found dead, and Clement becomes an unlikely sleuth, using his keen observational skills and knowledge of the local community to uncover the truth.
Why you might want to read it:
- Charming and witty: Coles’ writing is known for its humor and wit, making Death on Location a lighthearted and entertaining read.
- Engaging characters: The characters, including the eccentric villagers and the glamorous film crew, are well-developed and add depth to the story.
- Cozy mystery atmosphere: The book evokes the cozy mystery genre with its quaint village setting, intriguing characters, and a touch of suspense.
- Fans of the genre: Readers who enjoy cozy mysteries with a touch of humor will find Death on Location to be a delightful read.
Pre-order here. Due for release 5th June 2025.

This is the big one, for me. Taylor Jenkins Reid is my favourite contemporary author, and I’ve not read a book of hers that I haven’t loved. Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a captivating novel set against the backdrop of the 1980s space shuttle program. It tells the story of Joan Goodwin, an astrophysics professor who becomes an astronaut, and her fellow candidates as they train for their first flights. The novel explores themes of love, sacrifice, and human connection against the vastness of space.
If you loved the intricate character development and the behind-the-scenes look at a specific era in Daisy Jones (one of my all time favourites), you’ll likely enjoy Atmosphere as well. It delves into the personal lives and relationships of the astronauts, offering a glimpse into their hopes, fears, and dreams as they prepare for the unknown. I hope that this is as emotionally resonant as Reid’s previous novels.
Here are some specific reasons why you might enjoy Atmosphere:
- Compelling characters: Reid creates a diverse cast of astronauts, each with their own unique personalities, motivations, and backstories. You’ll find yourself invested in their journeys and relationships.
- Historical setting: The novel is meticulously researched and provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of NASA in the 1980s. You’ll learn about the challenges and triumphs of the early space shuttle program.
- Themes of love and loss: Like Daisy Jones, Atmosphere explores the complexities of love and loss, both personal and professional. The characters face difficult choices and grapple with the weight of their dreams.
- Reid’s signature writing style: Reid’s writing is known for its engaging storytelling, vivid descriptions, and ability to capture the nuances of human emotion. Atmosphere is no exception.
Pre-order here. Due for release 5th June 2025.
2025 is shaping up to be a phenomenal year for readers, and I’m positively buzzing with anticipation…
If you’re looking to expand your TBR pile (because, let’s be honest, who isn’t?), hit me up on social media or email me at alison@messyreader.com. Let’s swap recommendations and get ready to dive into some seriously epic stories this year.