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11 New Books You Need to Read!

From epic historical fiction to nail-biting whodunits, we've got the scoop on this year's must-reads titles.

11 New Books You Need to Read!

If you're looking to add some quality titles to your library this year, look no further! From epic historical fiction to nail-biting whodunits, we've got the scoop on this year's must-reads.

To Paradise by Hanya Yanagihara - January 11

The bestselling author of "A Little Life," Hanya Yanagihara, brings us fresh historical fiction set in an alternative New York City. There, people are free to live and love whoever they please, or so the characters thought. The story plays out over three time periods in what The Guardian calls a "masterpiece of our time." 

Exploring themes of love, fear, and shame, this novel is perfect for anyone looking to get lost in a fantastical world full of ups and downs. 

  • Release date - January 11
  • Age - Young adult
  • Genre - Historical fiction 

Homicide and Halo-Halo by Mia P. Manansala

In the sequel to the mystery novel "Arsenic and Adobo," Lila Macapagal is plunged back into the Shady Palms pageant world she had once ruled years ago. When the head judge of the competition is murdered, Lila's cousin (and pageant rival), Bernadette, is dubbed the prime suspect. Now she and Lila must set aside familial drama to clear her name. 

With promises of mystery and an overarching plot to uncover, Homicide and Halo-Halo is the ideal novel for anyone who can't help but binge true crime shows until the sun comes up. 

  • Release date - February 8
  • Age - Adult
  • Genre - Crime

Moon Witch, Spider King by Marlon James

Book two of the "Dark Star" trilogy puts the spotlight on Sogolon the Moon Witch, who tells her side of the missing-boy story from "Black Leopard, Red Wolf." The role reversal delivers a humanizing perspective on villainous Sogolon as a woman determined to own her truth and power.

  • Release date - February 15
  • Age - Young adult
  • Genre - Fantasy

Gallant by V.E. Schwab

This standalone adult fantasy novel follows Olivia Prior, who is invited to the large family manor by a mysterious relative. She finds the home full of secrets begging to be uncovered. Things take a darker turn as she crosses a ruined wall, finding herself in a warped version of her family home. 

  • Release date - March 1
  • Age - 13-17 years
  • Genre - Fantasy, family, dark

One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle

Katy finds herself on a mother-daughter trip without her mother, who had recently passed away. Hoping to connect with the memory of her mom, Katy is shocked to find her on a beach, 30-years-old and very much alive. 

This warm book explores the powerful bonds between mothers and daughters and a growing young woman's journey of love and grief. 

  • Release date - March 1
  • Age - Late teen, adult
  • Genre - Family, heartwarming

The Candy House by Jennifer Egan

This science-fiction masterpiece explores a technology that allows you to access, share and exchange any memory you've ever had. Following numerous narratives, all with their own unique perspectives, The Candy House promises to unpack serious topics at the intersection of privacy and technology.

This novel comes from Pulitzer prize winner Jennifer Egan, whose previous works have been lauded worldwide.

  • Release date - April 5
  • Age - Adult
  • Genre - Fantasy, sci-fi

When Women Were Dragons by Kelly Barnhill

This feminist fantasy novel explores the fictional Mass Dragoning of 1955, where 300,000 women suddenly transformed into dragons. Protagonist Alex Green is searching for answers about her auntie (who, spoiler, doesn't exist).

While this novel is set in a fantasy world, it grapples with issues like women's rights for a contemporary audience. While the book addresses serious topics, the fantasy elements allow Barnhill to package said issues in an original and captivating way. 

  • Release date - May 3
  • Age - Young adult
  • Genre - Fantasy, feminist

The Last White Man by Mohsin Hamid

From the internationally bestselling author of "Exit West," this novel follows Anders, a white man who has woken up with darker skin. With reports from across the world of similar occurrences, Anders grapples with his identity while cozying up to old friend Oona. 

The New York Times said: "Hamid's enticing strategy is to foreground the humanity. . . . [He] exploits fiction's capacity to elicit empathy and identification to imagine a better world."

  • Release date - August 2
  • Age - Adult
  • Genre - Dramatic fiction

Husband Material by Alexis Hall

In the sequel to her best-selling novel "Boyfriend Material," Hall explores the relationship between Luc and Oliver, who were navigating their fledgling relationship in the previous installment. With everyone around them getting hitched, Luc feels pressured to propose to Oliver. 

This is the epitome of a well-written romance novel full of comedy, heartbreak, and relatable situations. If you want to laugh, cry, and never put it down, you need this work in your life.

  • Release date - August 2
  • Age - Young adult
  • Genre - Romance, LGBTQ

Groundskeeping by Lee Cole

This debut novel follows a 20-something ex-forester who lives with his grandfather and uncle in rural Kentucky. He trims trees for the state university to take creative writing classes. That is until he meets Alma, a visiting professor and novelist. 

While dealing with issues like classism and politics, Cole provides a raw story filled to the brim with notable moments and touching relationships. 

  • Release date - 2022 (Not yet specified)
  • Age - Adult
  • Genre - Romance, political fiction

Horror Hotel by Victoria Fulton and Faith McClaren

The haunted house storyline has been done to death, but this reenvisioning gets a 21st-century makeover. Following a gang of teenage Youtube stars, the novel centers at an old, eerie hotel where secrets could rip the friends apart. While the influencers hope the horror will net them more views, a message from the dead turns their night into hell. 

This novel offers a unique take on the age-old haunted house genre. While you might be apprehensive if you don't usually enjoy scares, it's a fun gateway to the genre. 

  • Release date - February 2
  • Age - Teen
  • Genre - Horror

These titles are available for pre-order through Amazon or most book retailers. These best books of 2022 are set to become enormous titles, so grab your copy and join the conversation.