As the new year kicks off, there’s no better way to start fresh than with a stack of books waiting to be devoured. So get ready to settle into that cozy reading nook, grab a nice warm cuppa jo’ and some snacks, because you’re gonna be busy for a while. If you’re looking for the perfect page-turner to energize your reading goals for the year, January’s book releases are here to deliver. From gripping thrillers to heartwarming cozy mysteries, the literary world has something for everyone to kick off 2025. Get ready to mark your calendars, because these upcoming releases are sure to make your reading list a little longer—and a lot more exciting! Here’s a sneak peek at the most anticipated books of the month.
April showers bring murder near the lighthouse flowers!
A missing teenager shows up at Dani Mackenzie’s Sea Breeze home on Blueberry Bay, but the runaway is too terrified to reveal anything about herself. The police, however, aren’t the least bit shy when they arrive right behind her, searching for Claire. It seems the teen was hiding at the Kitty Point Lighthouse—exactly where a body was discovered.
There’s a long list of people who are happy this victim, the Misty Harbor town manager, is dead, but Claire’s circumstances make her the prime suspect. Dani hesitates to bring more drama into her world, but after she learns that Claire is related to a dear friend in Misty Harbor, she agrees to hide the young woman to keep them both safe from harassment or worse.
But the evidence keeps coming, whipping everyone’s fear into a frenzy. Dani, along with her Jack Russel terrier, Pip, jump into high gear to unravel a deadly tangle of greed before another body is found.
What if retirement isn’t the utopia it’s cracked up to be?
Helen Rogers never imagined that she’d be bored at Sunny Days Retirement Village in lovely Peachtree Valley, Georgia, but she wasn’t expecting to start this phase of life as early as her fifties, either. Then fate gave her a hand in solving her friend’s murder, and the sense of accomplishment was heady.
But was it a fluke?
Fate answers again when she stumbles over her second dead body, the city’s deputy mayor. The corpse is barely cold before the mayor’s wife is killed in a suspicious accident. Bodies are piling up—so Helen and her buddy, Carol Adams, take the next step: enroll in PI classes, apply for her license, and open an official investigation firm.
Helen has found her purpose, and it comes with new partners and a handsome assistant, Ted Morgan.
Yet business will grind to halt before it gets off the ground unless she can break open the truth. Plenty of folks have a motive, but which one of the suspects is desperate enough to plan such elaborate murders?
Her new employer has met her maker, and she’s the only suspect. Can she sift out the truth and serve the villain their just desserts?
Ava Decker longs to fulfill her lifelong dream of owning her own bakery. Ready for a fresh start, the former forensic accountant turned pastry chef is excited to turn life’s lemons into sugary success. But her hopes crumble when her mean boss turns up dead in the back of the delivery truck Ava was driving.
Arrested as the prime suspect, things get worse when the police discover the victim left Ava the shop and her house in her will. And with only an adorable kitten who thinks he’s a dog and an exasperated best friend as the voice of reason, the newly bequeathed owner must turn super-sleuth to clear her name.
Can Ava solve the crime before she’s baking behind bars?
Cupcakes & Chaos is the delicious first book in the Frosted Misfortunes cozy mystery series. If you like cute animal sidekicks, an appetizing listen to curl up with, and hilarious hijinks, then you’ll love Lisa Siefert’s perfectly dusted recipe.
In A Golden Guilt Trip, life in the small town of Pecan, Texas, is anything but ordinary for dog groomer and aspiring business owner, Leslie Winters. Juggling her growing mobile grooming business, her soon-to-be husband Detective Adam Waltz, and her quirky circle of dog-loving friends, Leslie is ready to put down roots. But when Councilman Rodriguez—who couldn’t tell a dog comb from a rake—starts blocking her plans for a new storefront, things quickly take a turn for the worse.
In a moment of unfiltered honesty, Leslie can’t resist giving her unflattering opinion of the councilman’s grooming skills. Unfortunately, that little remark might have just earned her a one-way ticket to the top of the suspect list when the councilman turns up dead, and she’s the one with the motive.
With the police closing in and the scent of scandal in the air, Leslie teams up with her tail-wagging companions and her loyal group of friends to sniff out the truth. But with a killer on the loose and her own future on the line, can Leslie clear her name before she’s locked up and forced to eat kibble in the jailhouse? Or will she be left barking up the wrong tree? It’s up to Leslie—and a few good pups—to solve this case, one clue (and dog treat) at a time.
In Murder Under the Marquee, wild animal removal specialist Elmo Simpson once again finds himself tangled in a murder investigation, but this time, it’s personal. When the body of Desiree LaFontaine, the former first mate of Elmo’s girlfriend, Nic, is discovered washed up on the beach near the Paradise Springs marina, the quiet Florida town is shaken to its core. To Elmo’s horror, Nic is quickly swept up in the investigation as the prime suspect, being the last person seen with the victim.
Though the evidence seems damning, Elmo refuses to believe that Nic is capable of murder. As he digs deeper, he uncovers a cast of suspicious characters—Craig Abbott, the shady tour boat owner with a bitter grudge against Nic; Bobby Darrin, Desiree’s elusive ex who’s disappeared into the shadows; and Drunk Paul, the oddball marina regular whose behavior seems more erratic than usual.
With time running out and Nic’s freedom hanging in the balance, Elmo is plunged into the seedy underbelly of Paradise Springs’ tight-knit, yet cutthroat, tourist industry. As he pieces together a trail of lies and betrayals, Elmo must confront his own fears and fight to uncover the truth—before the tides of fate pull both him and Nic under for good. The clock is ticking, and in a town where everyone has something to hide, Elmo must take a dangerous plunge into the heart of darkness to save the woman he loves.
In the spirit of new beginnings and cozy reading nights ahead, the Tule Bookshop is offering an irresistible half-off deal on all Tule Publishing releases. From December 29th through January 2nd, you can snuggle up with a good book and use the promo code “TULENEWYEAR” to fill your e-reader with stories at 50% off—no strings attached.
Whether you’re craving heartwarming romances, thrilling mysteries, or captivating adventures, now’s your chance to get them all at an unbelievable price. But don’t wait too long—this cozy offer ends when the clock strikes midnight on January 2nd.
Get comfy, grab your favorite hot drink, and treat yourself to a stack of great reads before the year’s end. 🥂
We’re almost to the end of our 12 Days of Christmas BlogTour. Let’s talk about cats and cozy mysteries!
If you’ve ever curled up with a good book and a purring feline by your side, you know there’s something magical about the companionship of a curious cat while you unravel a whodunit. Just like in your favorite cozy books, cats bring a mix of curiosity, cleverness, and just a touch of mischief. They love to explore, observe, and sometimes knock things off shelves in ways that seem oddly suspicious. It’s no wonder so many cozy mysteries feature feline companions helping their sleuthing owners sniff out the truth.
There’s nothing quite like curling up with a new cozy mystery, a warm blanket, and a kitty nestled beside you. Cats have a way of turning any moment into a heartwarming experience—perfect for diving into a suspenseful holiday tale.
Whether it’s “helping” you wrap presents or climbing into the Christmas tree, cats have a way of adding their own flair to holiday activities. Why not include them in your reading tradition, too?
With the NEW year approaching, let this cozy tradition carry through all seasons. Whether you’re immersed in a snow-covered setting or your book takes you to a sunny beach, your cat’s companionship, and occasional interruptions, will make every story that much more memorable.
So this holiday season, cuddle up with a purring friend, a cozy mystery, and a little Christmas magic. Because if there’s one thing better than a whodunit, it’s sharing the journey with a cat who might just think they are the real sleuth.
Wishing you and your furry companions a merry and mysterious holiday season!
Emmie Lyn grew up in a small town in New England, much like the towns where her female characters live—scenic, quaint and filled with colorful characters. She loves to create mysteries with twists and unexpected turns that draw readers in and capture their imagination.
Emmie lives in rural Massachusetts with her husband, a rescue terrier, and a black cat with a bad attitude. She shares twelve acres with a wide variety of wildlife including deer, bunnies, turkeys, and many songbirds. When she’s not busy thinking of ways to kill off a character (for a book, of course!) she enjoys a cup of tea and chocolate in her flower garden, hiking, or spending time near the ocean.
HAPPY holidays, cozy readers! As we near the end of our 12 Days of Christmas Blog Tour, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the joy of gifting cozy mysteries during the holiday season. After all, nothing says “happy holidays” quite like curling up with a suspenseful tale, a warm cup of cocoa, and a storyline full of quirky characters, charming small towns, and a puzzle to solve.
For those who love the warmth and wit of cozy mysteries, they’re more than just books—they’re a mini-escape, a hug in paperback form, and a surefire way to add a little mystery to the merriest time of year.
Between shopping, decorating, and festive gatherings, the holiday season can get overwhelming. Cozy mysteries offer a chance to slow down, savor each chapter, and unwind. When you open a cozy mystery, you’re transported into a world where problems are solved with humor, determination, and a good dose of holiday cheer—just the thing to make anyone’s day a little brighter!
Cozy mysteries are made for winter. Picture this: a snowy night, a crackling fireplace, and a plot that pulls you in and keeps you guessing until the very end. With settings that often include snow-covered towns, twinkling holiday lights, and delightful inns, cozy mysteries create a festive and comforting atmosphere, making them the ideal read for any chilly night.
We all love a story that ends on a high note, and cozy mysteries deliver that happiness with a satisfying twist. With amateur sleuths and lovable sidekicks—think cats, dogs, or even quirky neighbors—there’s always a sense of resolution, justice, and joy at the end of every cozy read. Each story is like a little holiday miracle, with good prevailing and our favorite sleuths solving the mystery, often with a bit of holiday spirit.
From hometown sleuths uncovering secrets to holiday events with a side of mystery, cozy mysteries add charm and intrigue to the holiday season. Whether you’re gifting them to others or treating yourself, each story offers an extra sprinkle of happiness to the festivities. So, this holiday season, why not gift a cozy mystery and share the warmth, laughter, and suspense that make this genre so beloved?
Wishing you a happy holiday filled with clues, twists, and cozy reads! 🎁📚
Emmie Lyn grew up in a small town in New England, much like the towns where her female characters live—scenic, quaint and filled with colorful characters. She loves to create mysteries with twists and unexpected turns that draw readers in and capture their imagination.
Emmie lives in rural Massachusetts with her husband, a rescue terrier, and a black cat with a bad attitude. She shares twelve acres with a wide variety of wildlife including deer, bunnies, turkeys, and many songbirds. When she’s not busy thinking of ways to kill off a character (for a book, of course!) she enjoys a cup of tea and chocolate in her flower garden, hiking, or spending time near the ocean.
The holiday season is a time for reflection, celebration, AND—let’s be honest—comfort. While the lights sparkle AND the scent of pine fills the air, there’s something about this time of year that makes you want to slow down and embrace the simple joys of life. AND what could be more wonderful than enjoying a quiet moment with your furry pet pal, a steaming cup of hot cocoa, AND a cozy book to keep you company?
Furry Friends and Holiday Snuggles
There’s no better companion during the holidays than your pet. Whether it’s your cat curling up in your lap as you read, your dog gently resting their head on your feet by the fire, or the sound of purring filling the quiet of a chilly night, pets add a layer of warmth AND comfort to the season. They’re always there to share in the moments of peace AND joy that make Christmas so magical. Their presence turns any moment into a special one—whether you’re wrapping gifts, watching holiday movies, or simply taking in the holiday cheer.
The Magic of Cozy Books
For me, one of the most magical parts of the holiday season is curling up with a good book. There’s something about wintery nights AND holiday mornings that make reading extra cozy. Picture this: You’re tucked under a blanket, your pet cuddled up nearby, AND you’re lost in the pages of a festive novel or heartwarming story. It’s the ultimate relaxation, AND there’s no better time of year to dive into your favorite holiday reads. From classic Christmas tales to cozy mysteries set against snowy backdrops, books bring a special kind of magic that’s perfect for the season.
The Simple Joys of the Season
It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holidays—shopping, cooking, parties, AND planning—but sometimes the best moments are the quiet ones. This year, let’s focus on those simple joys: the purr of a content cat, the warmth of a faithful dog by your side, AND the satisfaction of finishing a great book by the glow of Christmas lights. These moments are what make the holidays truly unforgettable.
So, here’s to enjoying the good times, embracing the cozy companionship of our pets, AND finding magic in every page we turn. After all, when you have your furry friends, a good book, AND a warm, festive atmosphere, it really is the most wonderful time of the year.
When people think of CHRISTMAS, their minds usually go to shopping, gifts, movies, snow, hot chocolate, cookies, and festive gatherings. As a reader and a writer, this time of year also fills me with the desire to immerse myself fully in the season by reading or re reading holiday stories.
Romance is such a joyful genre and for me, this includes a romantic cozy mystery. The only thing that can make falling for someone on the page better, is if it’s all happening during this merry season.
Since Christmas is about sharing and magic, I wanted to offer a few of my favorite reads and tell you all what I’m putting on my holiday TBR pile for this year.
Almost Midnight by Rainbow Rowell
This very short, very sweet story walks us through the friendship of two people who met at a New Year’s Eve party in high school. Noel is coming back from his first semester in college and Mags can’t wait to see him. They’ve missed each other terribly and not just as friends.
Simply Irresistibleby Jill Shalvis
When Maddie heads back to Lucky Harbor to a somewhat crumbling inn she’ll share with her sisters, she doesn’t expect to fall in love. This was my Jill Shalvis gateway book and I will forever remember the three sisters drunkenly sharing underneath the Christmas tree. It was delightful.
Landline by Rainbow Rowell
This is the sweetest novel that reminds a longtime married couple what matters most, especially at the holidays. When Georgie finds a rotary phone in her childhood bedroom, it brings her back to the past when she met her now husband, Neal, and makes her rethink her choice to spend the holiday working.
Dash and Lily’s Book of Dares by David Levithan and Rachel Cohn
This book (and television series adaptation) is adorable and so enjoyable. Exchanging dares and secrets in a notebook, both Dash and Lily learn about themselves and how far they’re willing to go to be their authentic selves and find a person worth sharing that self with.
Let it Snow by John Green, Maureen Johnson and Lauren Myracle
This collection of interwoven stories also has a great movie adaptation and what I love most about it is the overlapping stories that let you see the events from a variety of view points.
My to-read list for this year includes The Christmas Tree Farm by Laurie Gilmore and All I Want for Christmas by Falon Ballard.
Time seems to fly past at a quicker speed as I get older and I find myself needing to find ways to ground myself in the moment, the day, or the season. These reads will be what reminds me to sit by my tree with some hot chocolate and yummy cookies and get lost in the joy and magic of the season.
Jody Holford writes sweet romance and cozy mysteries with sweet romance in them. She’s published several books including the cozies in The Britton Bay Series. She’s unintentionally funny and rarely on time for anything. If she’s not writing, she’s reading, hanging out with her family, or doodling. She also writes romcoms under the pen name, Sophie Sullivan.
