In this January 2026 book haul, I’m sharing the books that recently came into my life—some sent to me and some I bought the way I like: in-store, hands-on, and based on what genuinely pulls me in. I’m also trying something new where I do these hauls monthly (depending on whether I actually have books to show), and this one is a short but exciting mix of sequels, prequels, and a few wild-card picks. First up, Jonathan Ball Publishers sent me two gorgeous additions I’m really excited to get to this year: Every Spiral of Fate by Tahereh Mafi (the mesmerizing fourth book in the Woven Kingdom series—so now I have no reason not to finally start) and Among the Burning Flowers by Samantha Shannon, which is connected to The Priory of the Orange Tree world. I also geek out over the interior illustrations because honestly… this is why you must read with your eyes. Then I show what I bought: Raven Song by T.J. Klune (because I’ve enjoyed everything I’ve read from him), Bringer of Dust by J.M. Miro (I’m currently reading Ordinary Monsters and it’s giving five-star vibes), plus two solo-date bookstore finds—The Picture of Dorian Gray and a sci-fi/speculative pick that fully grabbed me from the first line: Slow Gods by Claire North. My biggest takeaway? Popular books will always be there, but hidden gems are waiting if you go looking.