January. 2025. Just saying it feels a bit overwhelming, doesn’t it? The holidays are over, and suddenly it’s back to work, back to routines, and juggling all those ambitious, new goals you set for the year. Things are bound to get a little hectic.

With the post-holiday hustle in motion, finding time to settle into a book might feel almost impossible. But reading doesn’t have to be another daunting task on your to-do list. Imagine this—a bite-sized book that’s quick, satisfying, and fits into your busiest of days. Sounds perfect, right?

To help you get started, we’ve put together a list of short reads perfect for busy January days.

Stay warm and cosy and check out your local library from home! Download the Libby app to borrow these titles for free.

An Elderly Lady Is Up to No Good by Helene Tursten
🎧 Audiobook (3hr 12min)

Meet Maud—88 years old and full of surprises. She’s sweet, sharp, and has no problem handling pesky neighbors or the occasional dead body.

This quick, funny read is perfect for squeezing into your busy January!

Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi
🎧 Audiobook (6hr 52min)

What if you could travel back in time? In a quiet Tokyo cafe, you can—if you follow the rules and return before the coffee gets cold.

This story follows four visitors who take this once-in-a-lifetime chance: to confront lost love, reconnect with family, and say the goodbyes they never got.

The Fell by Sarah Moss
🎧 Audiobook (4hr 7min)

In search of fresh air during her COVID isolation, Kate steps out for a quick walk on the moors. But when she falls and injures herself, her simple escape turns into a suspenseful rescue mission.

A Spindle Splintered by Alix E. Harrow
🎧 Audiobook (3hr 20min)

Zinnia Gray is celebrating her 21st birthday, but it’s bittersweet—it’s the last one she’ll ever have due to a rare condition. When her best friend Charm plans a whimsical Sleeping Beauty experience, Zinnia’s accidental prick of a finger sends her tumbling into a magical adventure with another sleeping beauty desperate to escape her fate.

The Wrong Suitcase by Laura Jane Williams
🎧 Audiobook (2hr 17min)

Izzy’s exciting trip to Italy takes a turn when she discovers her suitcase is filled with men’s shirts instead of dresses for the wedding of the year. A mix-up with Sam’s luggage leads to an unexpected connection—could this fateful encounter spark something special?

Even if just for a little while, whisk yourself away with our selection of bite-sized stories that fit perfectly into your busy days.

*Title availability may vary by library & region.

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