If you’re looking for the best new books to read in 2026, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re in the mood for a vibey new release, an eerie thriller, or an upcoming book you’ll want to preorder ASAP, this list is packed with titles worth the hype. Below, we’re sharing 14 trending books for 2026 including the newest releases from the past couple of months and some of the most anticipated books coming soon. Grab your fave caffeinate sip, get comfy, and let’s build your 2026 TBR list!
Top 14 Must-Read Books for 2026: New and Upcoming Releases
5 Currently-Trending Books
1. Half His Age - Jennette McCurdy
Genre: Contemporary Fiction | Romance
Jennette McCurdy’s highly anticipated debut novel is already generating major buzz thanks to her sharp voice and emotional storytelling. Half His Age explores power dynamics, identity, and the messy realities of growing up when you’re trying to figure out who you are while navigating relationships that shape you in ways you don’t fully understand yet. Expect a raw, honest read that’s both uncomfortable in the best way and deeply relatable.
2. How to Commit a Postcolonial Murder — Nina McConigley
Genre: Mystery Thriller / Historical Fiction
This is a smart, sharp, and deeply layered book that blends mystery elements with big cultural themes. Nina McConigley’s writing brings a satirical edge to a story that tackles identity, history, and the lasting impact of colonialism. It’s the kind of book that makes you pause mid-page, reread a line, and think, “wow.”
3. The First Time I Saw Him — Laura Dave
Genre: Mystery Thriller / Contemporary
Laura Dave is known for emotionally tense, page-turning stories, and this one leans into that signature vibe. The First Time I Saw Him centers on relationships, secrets, and the ripple effect of a single moment that changes everything. It’s part emotional family drama, part suspense while still feeling invested in the characters and their choices.
4. My Husband’s Wife — Alice Feeney
Genre: Mystery Thriller / Domestic Suspense
If you love twisty thrillers with unreliable people and messy relationship drama, Alice Feeney is always a safe bet. My Husband’s Wife plays with perception, marriage dynamics, and the secrets people keep when they’re trying to protect their version of the truth.
5. Dear Debbie — Freida McFadden
Genre: Psychological Thriller / Suspense
Freida McFadden is basically the queen of fast-paced thrillers that keep you flying through the pages. Dear Debbie has that classic McFadden formula: something feels off, everyone’s hiding something, and you’re constantly second-guessing what’s real.
9 Anticipated Books to Watch for in 2026
6. The Midnight Train — Matt Haig
Genre: Fantasy / Science Fiction
Expected: May 26, 2026
Matt Haig’s books always feel like a mix of emotional comfort and “wait… what if?” imagination. The Midnight Train is expected to explore life choices, timing, fate, and the quiet ways we change over time. If you love reflective, heartfelt stories with a slightly surreal or magical premise, this one will likely be a top contender for your 2026 reading list.
7. London Falling — Patrick Radden Keefe
Genre: True Crime / History
Expected: April 6th, 2026
Patrick Radden Keefe is known for writing nonfiction that reads like a thriller—and London Falling is one of the most anticipated releases for that reason. This book is expected to dive into a major real-world story with deep reporting, sharp insight, and a narrative style that keeps you hooked. It’s a great pick for readers who love true stories, big-picture issues, and nonfiction that feels impossible to put down.
8. Brawler — Lauren Groff
Genre: Literary Fiction
Expected: February 24th, 2026
Lauren Groff has a reputation for bold, immersive storytelling and emotionally complex characters, and Brawler is already high on anticipated lists. While details are still limited, readers are expecting something intense, layered, and beautifully written.
9. Lost Lambs — Madeline Cash
Genre: Contemporary Fiction / Humor
Expected: January, 2026
This is a buzzy debut that’s already gaining attention for its fresh voice and emotional storytelling. Lost Lambs is expected to explore relationships, identity, and the complicated ways people drift apart and back together, over time. If you love modern fiction that feels real, slightly messy, and deeply human, this will be a strong pick for 2026.
10. The Book Witch — Meg Shaffer
Genre: Fantasy / Magical Realism
Expected: April 7th, 2026
This one is basically made for readers who love stories about books, magic, and a little whimsy. The Book Witch blends imagination with heart, giving you a cozy, escapist vibe without losing emotional depth.
11. The Escape Game — Marissa Meyer & Tamara Moss
Genre: Young Adult / Murder Mystery
Expected: April 7th, 2026
A high-energy YA story that combines puzzles, suspense, and action. The Escape Game is expected to be a fast-paced ride with twists, secrets, and a “can you figure it out before the characters do?” feel. Perfect for readers who love mysteries, high-stakes challenges, and books that feel like a movie while you’re reading them.
12. Caller Unknown — Gillian McAllister
Genre: Thriller / Mystery
Expected: May 5th, 2026
Gillian McAllister is known for high-concept thrillers that grab you from page one, and Caller Unknown sounds like it’s going to deliver that same adrenaline. Expect a story packed with urgency, tension, and the kind of plot that makes you question every character’s motives. This is a great pick for thriller lovers who want something modern, fast, and totally addictive.
13. The Calamity Club — Kathryn Stockett
Genre: Historical Fiction / Drama
Expected: May 5th, 2026
Kathryn Stockett’s return is a big deal, and The Calamity Club is already being talked about as one of the major upcoming releases. Expect strong character work, layered relationships, and a setting that feels immersive and lived-in.
14. Ghosts of Sicily — Mark Harmon & Leon Carroll Jr.
Genre: True Crime / History
Expected: April 14th, 2026
This is one of those nonfiction books that feels like a “wait… how did I not know this happened?” kind of story. Ghosts of Sicily blends true crime and historical intrigue, with deeper layers involving international connections and high-stakes investigation. If you love real stories with mystery, history, and suspense, this is a strong 2026 pick.
