A new year always brings a fresh wave of page-turners, and January and February are shaping up to be especially strong for readers who love suspense, romance, fantasy, and unforgettable storytelling.
From twisty thrillers and sweeping historical fiction to buzzy romances and bold new fantasy worlds, these upcoming releases are already generating serious buzz. If your reading list needs a refresh, consider this your shortcut to the books everyone will be lining up for.
Here are some of the can’t-miss titles arriving soon at the Barrie Public Library.
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For fans of thrillers and psychological suspense
If you like books that keep you up past bedtime, this is your section. These upcoming thrillers are packed with secrets, unreliable narrators, high-stakes danger, and twists you won’t see coming.
The First Time I Saw Him – Laura Dave
A long-buried past collides with the present when a missing husband suddenly reappears. Tense, emotional, and impossible to put down.
Anatomy of an Alibi – Ashley Elston
Two women. One powerful man. And a web of secrets that refuses to stay hidden. This one is built for readers who love slow-burn suspense with sharp twists.
It’s Not Her – Mary Kubica
A shocking discovery at a family cottage sets off a chilling chain of revelations. As secrets surface, no one feels entirely trustworthy.
My Husband’s Wife – Alice Feeney
One house. One husband. Two women claiming the same life. Feeney delivers another mind-bending thriller that keeps you guessing until the final page.
Dear Debbie – Freida McFadden
Darkly satisfying and sharply written, this thriller explores what happens when a woman decides to follow her own advice—and stop being polite about it.
Trust No One – James Rollins
A murder at a British university pulls a group of graduate students into a dangerous chase across Europe, sparked by a centuries-old manuscript that may hold the secret to immortality.
Big stories, high stakes
These are the novels that go big in every way. Sweeping plots, global consequences, and characters pushed to their limits drive stories where every decision matters and the outcome could change everything.
Stolen in Death – J.D. Robb
Lieutenant Eve Dallas faces a murder tied to priceless stolen treasures in the latest entry of this long-running, fan-favourite series.
Cold Zero – Ward Larsen & Brad Thor
A missing plane, global espionage, and a race against time in the Arctic. This is a fast-paced thriller built for readers who love high-stakes action.
Historical fiction that lingers
These novels prove the past is anything but quiet. Richly researched and emotionally driven, these stories bring history to life through unforgettable characters and moments of courage.
Skylark – Paula McLain
A beautifully layered novel that moves between centuries, following two lives connected by Paris, art, and resistance in times of upheaval.
Keeper of Lost Children – Sadeqa Johnson
Spanning post-war Germany to 1960s America, this powerful story explores identity, belonging, and the lives shaped by hidden histories.
Romance readers, take note
From slow-burn longing to full-on sparks, these romances deliver heart, heat, and happily-ever-afters worth rooting for. Perfect for readers who love strong chemistry and emotional payoff.
Catch Her If You Can – Tessa Bailey
Friends-to-lovers, a marriage of convenience, and plenty of chemistry. This one is pure escapism with heart and heat.
Two Can Play – Ali Hazelwood
An enemies-to-lovers novella set in the world of video game design, perfect for readers who love smart banter and slow-burn tension.
Fantasy and speculative standouts
Escape into worlds where magic, mythology, and imagination rule. These must-reads blend epic stakes with deeply human stories about power, survival, and identity.
The Poet Empress – Shen Tao
Poetry as power, forbidden knowledge, and a dangerous royal court. This lush fantasy debut is already drawing comparisons to genre favourites.
The Astral Library – Kate Quinn
What if books were doors to other worlds? A magical, literary adventure for readers who have ever wished they could step inside a story.
Operation Bounce House – Matt Dinniman
Darkly inventive and wildly imaginative, this sci-fi adventure blends survival, satire, and gaming culture in unexpected ways.
Why you’ll want to place holds early
Many of these titles are already generating long wait lists, especially from bestselling authors and viral favourites. Placing a hold early through Barrie Public Library ensures you’ll be among the first to dive in when they arrive.
Whether you’re planning cozy winter reading or just looking for your next obsession, these upcoming releases prove that 2026 is starting strong for book lovers.
Ready to claim your next great read? Your Barrie Public Library card has you covered.
