Book of the Month January 2025 Picks

Slay the Page loves Book of the Month (BOTM)! Start the year strong with January’s BOTM picks. From thrillers and memoirs to sharp fiction, we’ll share the buzziest new books to read now. Find out what’s trending this month.

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Let’s Talk About the Book of the Month January 2025 Picks

Slay the Page loves Book of the Month (BOTM)! Each month, readers get to choose a favorite (or several) from their curated list of brand-new book releases. And then? Selections are delivered right to your front door – in Book of the Month’s legendary bright blue box. 

Every month, Book of the Month curates a list of five to seven must-read, brand new books (gorgeous hardcovers), featuring exciting debuts and bestselling authors that members can pick from. Audiobook lover? You’ll be thrilled that Book of the Month now offers them too! As a new option, audiobooks can now be selected instead of hardcovers (or added on at any time after). I couldn’t be happier!

Monthly, I’ll share the Book of the Month picks and thoughts on each. I hope it will help you decide what books to read and add to your monthly subscription box. 

Not a Book of the Month member? I’m so happy to introduce you to these highly anticipated titles – and the best book subscription service ever. I hope you’ll enjoy reading about these brand new releases (and maybe even be inspired to subscribe).

Read on to discover the Book of the Month January 2025 picks and which ones I can’t wait to get on my bookshelf. Get ready to read your heart out! 

What is Book of the Month (BOTM)?

Book of the Month is a book lover’s dream. As the most popular subscription service in the book world (America’s #1 monthly book plan; now available in Canada too), it has the best new release books for readers – period.

How Does BOTM Work? A Quick Guide for January 2025

They pick a few, then we pick our fav! It couldn’t be easier . . . or more fun.

“Choose from our curated selection of the best new reads every month and get them delivered.” (Book of the Month, 2023)

Book of the Month has been curating the best in new books for decades (five or more monthly selections). That means, we get to “choose from stories vetted by cool people with great taste,” (Book of the Month, 2023).  

Each month, readers pick a book from the list to add to their subscription box. And then, just like magic, it’s delivered right to your door – in its famous, beautiful blue box.

• Step 1. We feature a few wow-worthy reads.
• Step 2. You decide if you want one (or more).
• Step 3. Then you read, review, and repeat (Book of the Month, 2023).

All it takes are three easy steps. First, pick a book from the list. Book of the Month unfailingly focuses on exciting new releases, perspectives, genres, and authors in special edition hardcover. Second, get your book. It’s always the best day when that iconic blue box arrives at the door! Third, skip a month at any time. Are you behind on your reading? Nothing catching your eye? Just roll your credits over, no problem.

Even better, Book of the Month picks are often early releases that haven’t been published yet. What does that mean? You get early access to read them before they’re even available in stores (like an advanced copy). How cool is that?

And don’t forget the add-ons! Want more than one? After your first book, you can add up to four extra titles at a significantly discounted price (current picks, past favourites, or add-on catalog new releases). And after your third box, it gets even better. You can pick from five reader’s favorite books for your choice instead.  

How Much Does BOTM Cost?

Book of the Month costs $12.50-17.99 USD (approx. $24.20-26.99 CAD) per month depending on your membership plan (i.e., definitely cheaper than buying hardcover new releases at the bookstore). You’ll even get your first book at a major discount! And if you buy a yearly plan, you’ll save even more per book (add-on books are always discounted too).

New subscriber? You’ll likely find great special offers on Book of the Month’s website to sign up. Book lover in your life? Book of the Month has gift card subscriptions too. You can easily cancel your membership if you wish – but I don’t think you’ll want to!

Get all the details on the subscription and membership by visiting the official Book of the Month website.

Book of the Month Benefits & Perks

It’s about to get even better! Book of the Month loves rewarding its members. Its amazing loyalty program, Relationship Status, gives long-term members incredible benefits.  

After three boxes, you’ll get “friend” benefits (i.e., ship up to five books each month and cast your vote for Book of the Year). After 12 boxes, you’ll also get “BFF” benefits. These include special free gifts – a tote bag, birthday book on your special day, your choice of a Book of the Year finalist, plus priority service. Sign me up!

Are you ready to see which Book of the Month January 2025 picks made the cut? Keep reading for the full list of books and my top recommendations.

Book of the Month Main Picks – January 2025

Here are the Book of the Month January 2025 picks to add to your reading list. Drum roll please – get ready to read your heart out!

Andromeda by Therese Bohman

Andromeda
Therese Bohman

BOTM’s Quick Take: Andromeda by Therese Bohman

A publishing assistant and her boss form a complex relationship based on fervent ideals about art, culture, and power (Book of the Month, 2025).

BOTM’s Good to Know: Andromeda by Therese Bohman

Synopsis of Andromeda by Therese Bohman

The prestigious Rydéns publishing house stands tall on Stockholm’s main street, its wooden and granite facade overlooking the city. A young woman begins as an intern, gradually earning greater influence over its esteemed authors and books. Under the guidance of Gunnar, head of the prestigious Andromeda imprint, their professional bond deepens into something ambiguous—built on trust, power, or something more. As years pass, the lines between mentorship and something unspoken blur, leaving them both questioning what truly binds them together.

Book Details: Andromeda by Therese Bohman

BOTM Pick: Main — January 2025
Genre: Literary Fiction
Publication Date: August 15, 2022
Get More Info: Full Book Page | Goodreads | The Storygraph

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The Three Lives of Cate Kay by Kate Fagan

The Three Lives of Cate Kay
Kate Fagan

BOTM’s Quick Take: The Three Lives of Cate Kay by Kate Fagan

A propulsive tale of buried secrets, hidden identities, and a reclusive author’s journey to finally tell her own story (Book of the Month, 2025).

BOTM’s Good to Know: The Three Lives of Cate Kay by Kate Fagan

Synopsis of The Three Lives of Cate Kay by Kate Fagan

Cate Kay is a literary sensation, the author behind a blockbuster book trilogy turned hit film series. But Cate Kay isn’t real—she’s a carefully constructed persona, never seen in public, never interviewed. Years ago, she and her best friend Amanda planned to leave their troubled pasts behind for Hollywood, but a tragic event the night before changed everything. Since then, she has lived under different names, always running from the past. Now, a shocking discovery forces her to return home, the one place she’s spent her life avoiding.

Book Details: The Three Lives of Kate Cay by Kate Fagan

BOTM Pick: Main & Audiobook — January 2025
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Publication Date: January 7, 2025
Get More Info: Full Book Page | Goodreads | The Storygraph

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The Favorites by Layne Fargo

The Favorites
Layne Fargo

BOTM’s Quick Take: The Favorites by Layne Fargo

Elite figure skaters experience chemistry on and off the ice in this intoxicating tale of ambition, sabotage, and love (Book of the Month, 2025).

BOTM’s Good to Know: The Favorites by Layne Fargo

Synopsis of The Favorites by Layne Fargo

Katarina Shaw always knew she was meant to be an Olympic skater, even without money, family support, or a famous name. When she meets Heath Rocha, a foster kid with his own demons, their undeniable connection transforms them into an electrifying ice-dancing duo. Their rebellious style and turbulent romance make them legends—until a shocking event at the Olympics ends everything. Now, ten years later, a tell-all documentary threatens to rewrite their history, forcing Kat to break her silence. The world knows the scandal, but only she knows the truth—and it’s even more explosive than the rumors.

Book Details: The Favorites by Layne Fargo

BOTM Pick: Main — January 2025
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Publication Date: January 14, 2025
Get More Info: Full Book Page | Goodreads | The Storygraph

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A Killing Cold by Kate Alice Marshall

A Killing Cold
Kate Alice Marshall

BOTM’s Quick Take: A Killing Cold by Kate Alice Marshall

Visiting her fiancé’s wealthy family provides answers to her forgotten past. But the truth always comes at a cost (Book of the Month, 2025).

BOTM’s Good to Know: A Killing Cold by Kate Alice Marshall

Reader Note: This book may explore emotional, sensitive, or potentially triggering topics. If you’d like more detailed content information before reading, see our content notes for A Killing Cold by Kate Alice Marshall.

Synopsis of A Killing Cold by Kate Alice Marshall

When Theodora Scott met Connor Dalton, she was swept up in a whirlwind romance with the wealthy heir to a powerful family. Now, six months later, he’s brought her to Idlewood, their secluded winter estate, to earn his family’s approval. But as threatening messages appear on her phone and footprints disturb the snow outside her window, unease creeps in—especially when she discovers an old photo of herself as a child, taken at Idlewood. Theo has no memory of ever being there, but the past is clawing its way back, and someone is desperate to keep it buried. The Daltons never lose, and if Theo uncovers the truth, she may not make it out alive.

Book Details: A Killing Cold by Kate Alice Marshall

3PEAT AUTHOR | EARLY RELEASE

BOTM Pick: Main — January 2025
Genre: Thriller
Publication Date: February 4, 2025
Get More Info: Full Book Page | Goodreads | The Storygraph

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Isaac’s Song by Daniel Black

Isaac’s Song
Daniel Black

BOTM’s Quick Take: Isaac’s Song by Daniel Black

Journeying across memory, a man reflects on his contentious relationship with his father and the cost of forgiveness (Book of the Month, 2025).

BOTM’s Good to Know: Isaac’s Song by Daniel Black

Reader Note: This book may explore emotional, sensitive, or potentially triggering topics. If you’d like more detailed content information before reading, see our content notes for Isaac’s Song by Daniel Black.

Synopsis of Isaac’s Song by Daniel Black

Isaac has spent his life suppressing his true self, shaped by a rigid father who saw no place for art or vulnerability in a man. Now, in late 1980s Chicago, he is finally embracing his identity and seeking connection—until the AIDS crisis and the beating of Rodney King shatter his fragile sense of hope. At his therapist’s urging, he begins writing his story, uncovering long-buried pain and the weight of his family’s past. His search for understanding leads him back to Arkansas, where a shocking discovery may either bring him clarity or destroy everything he’s fought for.

Book Details: Isaac’s Song by Daniel Black

REPEAT AUTHOR

BOTM Pick: Main & Audiobook — January 2025
Genre: Historical Fiction
Publication Date: January 14, 2025
Get More Info: Full Book Page | Goodreads | The Storygraph

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Babylonia by Costanza Casati

Babylonia
Costanza Casati

BOTM’s Quick Take: Babylonia by Costanza Casati

Adventure, forbidden romance, and bloodshed abound in this epic retelling of an infamous ancient female ruler (Book of the Month, 2025).

BOTM’s Good to Know: Babylonia by Costanza Casati

Reader Note: This book may explore emotional, sensitive, or potentially triggering topics. If you’d like more detailed content information before reading, see our content notes for Babylonia by Costanza Casati.

Canadian Readers: This title is not available for Book of the Month subscribers in Canada but can be purchased from Amazon Canada.

Synopsis of Babylonia by Costanza Casati

Semiramis was born an orphan on the empire’s fringes, with no claim to power—until fate thrust her into the heart of Assyria’s ruthless politics and the dangerous world of Babylonia. Caught between the governor she marries and the king who desires her, she quickly learns that survival demands cunning, strength, and betrayal. Trained in war and diplomacy, she rises through the ranks, navigating a brutal landscape where loyalty is fleeting and ambition is deadly. But in a kingdom where power is won through bloodshed, only the throne can keep her safe.

Book Details: Babylonia by Costanza Casati

BOTM Pick: Main — January 2025
Genre: Historical Fiction
Publication Date: June 13, 2024
Get More Info: Full Book Page | Goodreads | The Storygraph

BOTM Audiobook Picks – January 2025

Great news! Book of the Month now offers audiobooks as part of your monthly selection options. This means you can swap out a hardcover and pick an audiobook as your featured choice for the month instead.

Here are the Book of the Month January 2025 audiobook picks . . .

BOTM Member Faves – January 2025

Not sure about the Book of the Month January 2025 picks? We’ve all been there! But don’t worry, you have a new way to keep your reading game strong after your third box.

Before, if no featured selections caught your eye, you’d have to pass on the whole month (rolling your credits over). But guess what? If you’ve got “friend” or “BFF” status, you’re going to love this – now you can pick a member fave hardcover (instead of a featured selection) for your monthly box. Feeling extra-bookish? You can even add up to four more books to your order.

Here are the Book of the Month January 2025 member faves . . .

BOTM New Add-Ons – January 2025

Need more? In addition to their monthly picks, Book of the Month offers other new titles too! After selecting your main book, you can also pick these new releases – or any previous ones – as add-ons to your box.

Here are the Book of the Month January 2025 new add-ons . . .

My Book of the Month January 2025 Picks

Book of the Month January 2025 has some incredible selections this month. I’m absolutely loving every pick for this month’s lineup!

If I have to choose, I am most excited about Layne Fargo’s The Favorites. As a glamorous, “intoxicating tale of ambition, sabotage, and love” (Book of the Month, 2025), I just don’t think I can miss out on this one.

As a second choice, I’m also very tempted by Kate Fagan’s The Three Lives of Kate Cay. A “propulsive tale of buried secrets, hidden identities, and a reclusive author’s journey to finally tell her own story” (Book of the Month, 2025)? That’s exactly the kind of book I can’t wait to get my hands on this month.

What about audiobooks? The Book of the Month January 2025 picks also include excellent audiobook options. A passionate lover of nonfiction, my first choice is Shari Franke’s memoir, The House of My Mother. 

My second audiobook choice is Alice Feeney’s Beautiful Ugly. A “twisty island thriller about a missing wife and a man who can’t trust his own mind” (Book of the Month, 2025) sounds like just the thing to pass these grey winter days inside—I’m definitely adding this one to my list.

For member faves, Rebecca Ross’ A River Enchanted and Melissa Fu’s Peach Blossom Spring both catch my eye. And the new add-ons include several options I’d love to read too. An award-winning Canadian author, I’m so intrigued by Emily Austin’s We Could Be Rats. Also, the cover of Adrienne Young’s A Sea of Unspoken Things looks so dreamy too.

Lastly, I can’t overlook Lisa Genova’s More or Less Maddy. As the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the exceptional Still Alice, I’ll absolutely be reading her new novel on bipolar disorder as soon as possible.

I might not have time to read every single one of these this month (especially with all the amazing January 2025 celebrity book club picks too), but I’m beyond excited about them! Of the Book of the Month January 2025 selections, I’m drawn to these titles the most (but I wish I could read them all). I’ve already added them to my to-be-read list. I can’t wait!  

What January 2025 BOTM Picks Will You Read?

Now that you’ve seen the Book of the Month January 2025 selections, which one are you most excited about? Will you be picking up a thriller, a memoir, or something entirely different? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts. And with that, let’s Slay the Page!

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Book of the Month Picks: What You Need to Know

More Book of the Month Picks

Loved the Book of the Month January 2025 picks? Don’t miss more must-read selections below:

• Book of the Month April 2025 Picks
• Book of the Month March 2025 Picks
• Book of the Month February 2025 Picks