So, I know we’re already over two months into 2019, but I thought I would let you all know about the 2019 releases I’m most excited about this year (at least the ones I know about.) Because I’m a reader who prefers to go into books not knowing much about the plot, a lot of these books are from some of my favorite authors, or books I’ve heard about from other bloggers/booktubers. Basically, I know little to nothing about a lot of the books on this list. I 100% play into the YA book hype train, so hopefully all of these hyped books are as good as they seem—but let’s be real, I only take recommendations from bloggers I trust, so they will be!
As two months of the year have already passed, I am going to omit any books I’ve already read or have already started reading. (If you want a peek at the 2019 releases I’ve already read, take a look at my Goodreads!) Below are books I’ve either heard some serious buzz about over on book twitter, a continuation of a series I’ve already started, or a book by an author whose books I’m already obsessed with.
If you see any books missing from this list that you think I’d love, please let me know! I can always use a few more book recommendations to add to my ever growing tbr.
King of Scars | Leigh Bardugo
Release Date: January 29th, 2019
I just finished Crooked Kingdom at the beginning of this year, so I’m very excited to see where the next book set in this world takes us. Not gonna lie, it’s been a minute since I read the Grisha trilogy, and I think it deserves a reread before I dive into this one. I’m a Nikolai stan, though, so I’m sure I’ll drool all over it.
The Priory of the Orange Tree | Samantha Shannon
Release date: February 26th, 2019
I was somehow able to get my hands on a hard copy of this baby for half price. Literally no idea why my bookstore had it so drastically reduced, but I’m not going to ask too many questions. I know this book is hella hyped and involves a queer female epic fantasy with dragons. Like helllooooo, yes please. I’m very much over adult fantasy being overrun with old white male authors, so this is quite the breath of fresh air.
Daisy Jones & The Six | Taylor Jenkins Reid
Release date: March 5th, 2019
AH! This book is currently waiting for me at the library, and I’m desperate to dive in as soon as I can. I know that it is a historical fiction novel following a rock band in the 60s (?) and may possibly involve some elements of magical realism. I’m pretty positive I’m going to fall in love with this book. Cross your fingers for me please!
When The Sky Fell on Splendor | Emily Henry
Release date: March 12th, 2019
I read The Love that Split the World by Emily Henry last year, and it split my world. That book hit me hard and it came straight out of left field. I was immediately infatuated with it, and I can only hope her newest book invokes a similar reaction from me. Based entirely on the cover, I’m guessing it involves some sort of UFO encounter, but we shall see.
Descendant of the Crane | Joan He
Release date: April 2nd, 2019
I’ve only heard good things piled upon good things about this book. I (very luckily) was just granted an eARC, so I’m planning on diving in ASAP. All I know is that it involves a Chinese royalty fantasy story? I’m expecting a lot of political intrigue and some untrustworthy characters. p.s. wtf that cover is INSANELY beautiful.
The Princess of the Fangirl | Ashley Poston
Release date: April 2nd, 2019
If my love for Geekerella says anything about how I’m going to feel about this book, it’s sure to be a hit in my eyes. I love a good modern fairytale retelling, and this one involves not only more fan culture, but some f/f romance. That’s a yes from me! I am so ready to get thrown back into this world.
Finale | Stephanie Garber
Release date: May 7th, 2019
This is the final book in the Caraval trilogy! (if that wasn’t obvious enough from the title.) I know this series has had some mixed reviews, and although I understand people’s qualms, the magic hits me hard every time I dive back in. I know the stories don’t make the most sense, and yet… I’m obsessed. They’re far from being perfect, but they give me those ooey gooey magical vibes that are exceptional at lifting my mood or breaking a reading slump.
Somewhere Only We Know | Maurene Goo
Release date: May 7th, 2019
Yes, please give me a new Maurene Goo. This book follows a k-pop star and that’s pretty much all I know about it. But, it’s Maurene Goo, so I’m sure it’s going to be amazing. She’s pretty much an automatic read for me by now, and I’m planning on reading this book pretty much the minute it is released.
Middlegame | Seanan McGuire
Release date: May 7th, 2019
So, this is a book that I know 0% about. I’m not even sure if it’s YA or adult, tbh. This anticipation is solely based on the fact that I am madly in love with Seanan McGuire’s Wayward Children series, and that alone. I may well hate this book, but the only way I’m going to find out is if I read it. Sooner rather than later would be great, thanks. ☺
Red, White & Royal Blue | Casey McQuinston
Release date: May 14th, 2019
This is a new adult book (!!) featuring a m/m romance between the crown prince of England and the President’s son. Oh, god this is going to be so good. The cover is beautiful, the story sounds amazing, and I’ve only heard positive things so far. Please let me get my hands on it ASAP.
These Witches Don’t Burn | Isabel Sterling
Release date: May 28th, 2019
Yet another YA book that I’m excited to read despite knowing almost nothing about the plot. I believe this centers on an elemental witch and her ex-girlfriend trying to track down the source of some dark magic in her town? I’m all for witchy reads, and this one sounds fantastic.
I Love You So Mochi | Sarah Kuhn
Release date: May 28th, 2019
Not gonna lie, my initial draw towards this book was the fact that the word “mochi” was in the title and yes, please. The cover is freaking adorable and has cherry blossoms in the background. *Ugh* too. much. cuteness. I’m pretty sure this takes place in Kyoto, which just happens to be one of my favorite cities in Japan. Again, based on the cover/title, I’m pretty sure it’s going to involve some romance and my body is freaking ready.
Fake It Till You Break It | Jenn P. Nguyen
Release date: June 18th, 2019
I’m pretty sure this involves both a hate-to-love and a fake relationship to real relationship romance, and I am ready for it. For some reason, I don’t think I’ll ever get sick of these romance tropes, and I’m not mad about it. I can picture myself now sitting outside in a park reading this book with some iced lemonade when it gets released in June. Paradise, man.
Maybe This Time | Kasie West
Release date: July 9th, 2019
Another sugary sweet contemporary from author Kasie West. Again, another automatic-read author for me. Her books aren’t always groundbreaking, but they are guaranteed to be cute and entertaining. This is yet another YA contemporary that will be a perfect read for the summer.
The Dragon Republic | R.F. Kuang
Release date: August 6th, 2019
I’m so nearing the end of the first book in this series, Poppy War, and I’m loving it so hard. The writing is fantastic, the characters are so complex, and the plot is INTENSE. I really think this book is experienced best knowing little about the story, but if you’re interested in Asian-inspired fantasy and war strategy, this book is for you. Can’t wait to finish it and wait the agonizing months until the sequel is released.