Treat yourself: A list of the most anticipated books of 2021 Treat yourself: A list of the most anticipated books of 2021
BY KAMDYN ROHER From social issues to fantasy lands, books can be about just anything, transporting the reader someplace entirely different and picking new... Treat yourself: A list of the most anticipated books of 2021

BY KAMDYN ROHER

From social issues to fantasy lands, books can be about just anything, transporting the reader someplace entirely different and picking new parts of their brain each time. People in the reading community constantly have one eye open for the year’s most interesting and anticipated releases from both authors they know and love and those just getting their career started. Here is an unofficial and unranked list of 2021’s new releases to buy now or look out for:


“Concrete Rose” by Angie Thomas, released on January 12

Following seventeen-year-old Maverick Carter, “Concrete Rose” is the breathtaking prequel to Thomas’s critically-acclaimed novel, “The Hate U Give.” In his journey of discovering what it means to be a man, Maverick must deal with the death of a loved one along with the struggles of loyalty, responsibility and revenge. 


“The Charmed Wife” by Olga Grushin, released January 12

A new spin on the old classic, “The Charmed Wife” retells Cinderella in a refreshing way. It’s been over 13 years since Cinderella and Prince Charming tied the knot and their marriage is far from what she dreamed of, as Cinderella now wants her prince dead. This novel explores love and romance in a unique and fantastical way that keeps readers’ eyes glued to the pages. 


“The Devil You Know: A Black Power Manifesto” by Charles Blow, released January 26

Inspired by this summer’s racial inequality protests, Blow corrects the myths that have stirred racial injustice in America. Drawing from his own experiences as a Black American man living in the south and from political observations, this moving piece expresses the extortions of generations of people and the power of liberty and justice for all.


“The Bad Muslim Discount” by Syed M. Masood, released February 2

Following two Muslim American families and their immigration to the United States, this novel spans from 1995 to 2016, intertwining the fates of two young adults finding their way in America. Full of comedy, spirit, insight and darkness, this novel is a real page-turner that leaves readers with a new sense of clarity and appreciation for the Muslim community. 


“A Court of Silver Flames” by Sarah J. Maas, released February 16

After the events of “A Court of Frost and Starlight,” Maas switches the narrative, focusing on hot-tempered Nesta Archeron and quick-witted Cassian. Both of them damaged from their brutal pasts, the only one they seem to find peace in is each other. Full of humor, romance, battle and heart, “A Court of Silver Flames” is the start of Maas’s spin-off collection from her popular “A Court of Thorns and Roses” series. 


“Chain of Iron” by Cassandra Clare, released March 2

In this sequel to fan-favorite “Chain of Gold,” Clare continues right where the first installment left off. Following the story of James Herondale, Cordelia Carstairs and all of the London Enclave, the Shadowhunters must juggle the need for justice and their own personal desires that make their lives even more complicated than the demons they hunt. Here is a rundown of Clare’s “Shadowhunter Chronicles” and some of the recommended ways to enjoy them. 


“Later” by Stephen King, released March 2

King is back at it again with a thrilling novel bound to keep readers on their toes throughout the entire book. Lost innocence, growing up and facing one’s demons all come together in this novel, which is reminiscent of King’s “It,” one of the most well-known horror stories ever. 


“Klara and the Sun: A Novel” by Kazuo Ishiguro, released March 2

Klara is an artificial friend with acute observational skills. From her place in the store, Klara watches those browsing and those outside. This point of view allows readers a new insight into the ever-changing world, bringing to light one of the most fundamental questions: what does it mean to love?



“You Love Me: A You Novel” by Caroline Kepnes, scheduled to release April 6

The third installment of the “You” trilogy that the Netflix series of the same title is based on, “You Love Me” continues Joe Goldberg’s search for romance after his stunt in Los Angeles. Just in time for “You” season three, “You Love Me” will be the thrilling end to Goldberg’s dangerous story. 


“One Last Stop” by Casey McQuiston, scheduled to release June 1

After her bestselling debut novel, “Red, White and Royal Blue,” fans are eagerly awaiting this new rom-com that is bound to be a tear-jerker. Attempting to make the impossible possible, “One Last Stop” follows August as she tries to save Jane, a girl seemingly lost in time and their journey of self-discovery and romance.


Here are some other titles that are also worth checking out:

Black Buck” by Mateo Askaripour, released January 5

Lore” by Alexandra Bracken, released January 5

The Dangers of Smoking in Bed” by Mariana Enriquez, released January 12

We Free the Stars” by Hafsah Faizal, released January 19

The Rib King” by Ladee Hubbard, released January 19


Photo by Emma Huerta