Not only was Tavern Tale released this January, but some other fabulous Small Press books came out (or are about to come out) that you all should put on your TBR…or just read right now.
What is a small press?
What’s a small press? A traditional publisher but not one of the big 5. Think cool indie gaming company for the book world. Authors get contracts, royalties, sometimes advances, and the publisher handles editing, cover design, distribution, marketing. Marketing, however, various from publisher to publisher. Some might not be able to afford much which is why it is so important for readers to tell others about these books. They’re imaginative books that readers will adore, but might not show up in your local bookstore. (Pro tip: Ask your local stores to order the books! It might turn into something they want to stock after all).
Must Read January 2025 Small Press Book Releases
January 14, 2025
FIONA AND THE FORGOTTEN PIANO by Kate DeMaio
Eleven-year-old Fiona isn’t allowed in the Fermata woods. And though its unique trees are fascinating, Fiona has no problem following her mother’s rules. That is until the trees begin to sing.
Suddenly, it feels as though long forgotten memories are being unlocked in Fiona’s mind. As she nears the woods edge, the trees fall silent, so silent even the leaves stop rustling. Fiona will finally break the rules and venture into the woods.


January 21, 2025
TARNISHED by Erica Rose Eberhart, an epic fantasy.
An outlawed magic, a hidden curse, and a love tested by fire.
Ailith discovers that Caitriona holds a dangerous secret—she possesses powerful magic in a kingdom where magic is outlawed.
(Psst, my 5-star review is here.)
January 21, 2025
WITH LOVE, JUNIPER by Amanda Cessor
Juniper Harlow had always been a nervous young woman. Particularly when it came to the social obligations of a well-to-do family in a small village. There were only very few her parents and her childhood friend Oleander Ambrose. He always seemed to understand her fears and often went out of his way to act as a shield against the perils of social interaction.


January 27, 2025
IN THE NAME OF HONOR by Courtney & Clarke Collins
A half-elven princess grieves the loss of one father, and fears for the other.
A loyal guardsman torn between his word and her safety.
And a creature so corrupted, he’ll hurt them all to make the world kneel.
Dimitar delivers the worst message of all: vile Corrupted creatures have returned and murdered the king’s best friend. Eager to earn knighthood, he’s surprised when given an order he doesn’t expect: guard the princess… from herself.
Add these to your Goodreads shelf! Have you read any of them? Let me know in the comments! Don’t forget to check out Tavern Tale, a cozy fantasy romance with higher stakes, which released January 7th!