While I’ve always been an avid reader, I was never one to keep up-to-date about new releases (aside from the next Harry Potter book, of course). I read what I wanted, when I wanted to, and often I would pick up books years after they were published. At the time, social media wasn’t a thing, and I wasn’t writing reviews for an audience. Do I feel somewhat obligated to be in the know about new releases because I blog about books now? I would be lying if I said no. But I’ve come to find that these days, I just get honestly excited about new stories from my favorite authors! (It kind of helps that the authors I now read a lot from are…you know…alive…)

Typically I hear about exciting books from other book bloggers and ARC reviews, but I’ve found myself eagerly awaiting quite a few titles already, and it’s only February! I actually spent a good twenty minutes in Barnes & Noble the other day looking for two of these, only to realize they aren’t even out yet. Oops.

What books am I excited for this year?

Trigger Warning // Neil Gaiman – This just came out a few weeks ago and I was practically helping the Barnes & Noble employees unpack their shipment. For someone who doesn’t typically care for short stories, I always love Neil Gaiman’s; the man does short stories right. Included in this collection is his “Calendar of Tales” project, which is worth the purchase alone. (this may be an affiliate link, but it is so worth the indulgence!)

The Winner’s Crime // Marie Rutkowski – I picked up the first book fully expecting to be let down from Pretty Dress Syndrome, but The Winner’s Curse delivered. I hadn’t realized that the sequel wasn’t out yet, and have been suffering from withdrawal ever since I finished the book. Luckily, I won’t have long of a wait; the second in the series is set to come out this March!

Carry On // Rainbow Rowell – Never in a million years did I imagine that one of my favorite novels, Fangirl, would inspire a story in the fictional universe from which it so heavily draws. When Rainbow Rowell announced a Simon Snow novel, I didn’t believe it to be true. It’s hard to believe that it’s slated to come out this year, but I know I (along with a large majority of the NovelTea Book Club) are eagerly awaiting its release!

Hold Me Like a Breath // Tiffany Schmidt – Four words: Black. Market. Organ. Transplants.

A Darker Shade of Magic // V.E. Schwab – Though I’ve only read one other Victoria Schwab novel, she completely captivated me, and I’ve been looking to get my hands on more of her works ever since. Just read the synopsis…

I Was Here // Gayle Forman – Imagine my surprise when I walked through the bookstore and spotted this on a display table, despite thinking it wasn’t due out for another few months! I’m horrible at keeping up with new release dates, but this is one I want to read for certain. Gayle Forman is a skilled author and storyteller, and had me at If I Stay.

The Orphan Queen // Jodi Meadows – Hidden magic, secret stealth societies, and wraiths. All the things needed to launch a full-scale mission to take back the throne!

Having books to anticipate is such a (great! and) new feeling! I could get used to this…

What books are you looking forward to in 2015?