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It’s January, which means we have fresh new book news for you to peruse! From upcoming book adaptations to romantasy audiobooks to new subscription boxes, there’s a lot to be excited about in 2026, so let’s get right into it.
Courtney Summers’s 2012 zombie novel This is Not a Test has a film adaptation coming out soon, and here is the official movie poster. In honor of the new movie, a new definitive edition of Summers’ novel released earlier this week, including a short prequel novella, Please Remain Calm. In an Instagram post, Summers expressed her excitement for the upcoming film, praising the cast and writer/director Adam Macdonald: “Congrats congrats congrats and thank you for taking such good care of the story and characters. They worked fast and furious and gave it all they had and it’s everything. I wouldn’t say it if it wasn’t true. I would simply disappear into the forest and mind my own business forever but I’m genuinely obsessed and I hope you will be too.” This is Not A Test hits theaters on February 20.
Heated Rivalry stars Connor Storrie and Hudson Williams are narrating Ember & Ice, a romantasy series for the audio erotica platform Quinn. In the three-part series, Storrie and Williams star as Dane and Finn, two fae princes from rival kingdoms. “Hudson and Connor have a really special chemistry, and we feel incredibly lucky to work with them,” Caroline Spiegel, the founder and CEO of Quinn, said in a statement. “The way they connect with audiences and show up in the cultural conversation is exciting to watch.” The first two episodes launched on Quinn on December 30, and the third episode was released on January 5.
Excited for another adaptation of Stephen King’s Carrie? Well, big-time Stephen King fan Mike Flanagan is excited, too. So excited that he “broke a rule” to make his limited series adaptation of King’s first novel. Flanagan told Empire Magazine, “I’ve really enjoyed chasing the things that hadn’t already been done, and trying to find new ways into them.” Flanagan explained that he used to have a rule that he wouldn’t do remakes or sequels, but with his new eight-part limited series, he claims he is adapting Carrie in a new way. The series will star Summer Howell as Carrie White. The cast will also include Matthew Lillard as Principal Grayle, Samantha Sloyan as Carrie’s mom, Margaret White, Alison Thornton as Chris Hargensen, Thalia Dudek as Emaline, Siena Agudong as Sue Snell, Amber Midthunder as Miss Desjardin, Josie Totah as Tina, Arthur Conti as Billy, and Joel Oulette as Tommy. Carrie will be released on Amazon Prime later this year.
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Bridgerton author Julia Quinn recently announced Julia Quinn Editions, a historical romance book box, and now she has also announced JQ Editions’ first three titles. The Last Lady B by Eloisa James will kick off JQ Editions in July 2026; An Extraordinary Union by Alyssa Cole will be JQ Editions’ September 2026 book pick; and Lord of Scoundrels by Loretta Chase will be out in November 2026. What can you expect from this book box and these new editions? According to Quinn, “The very best of historical romance, delivered straight to your door. Gorgeous special editions, all with luxurious soft-touch covers, illustrated endpapers, and fabulous sprayed edges.” All books are hand-picked by Julia Quinn herself.
We’re only in January, and already there are so many bookish things to look forward to!