12 Must-Read Books for 2026: Your Next Favorites Await

1. Heartstopper Volume 6 by Alice Oseman (2 July 2026, Hachette Children's)

Tissues at the ready! This final installment of Oseman's series promises a heartfelt conclusion to Nick and Charlie's journey amidst the chaos of teenage love, long-distance challenges, and the poignant bittersweetness of growing up. The Netflix adaptation catapulted these characters into the hearts of many, making this release one of the year's most anticipated.

2. Land by Maggie O'Farrell (2 June 2026, Headline)

With her film adaptation of Hamnet looming, O'Farrell returns with Land, drawing on her family history to weave a story set against the backdrop of 19th-century Ireland and the Great Hunger. This multi-generational saga promises to tug at your heartstrings as it explores themes of survival and migration.

3. The Last of Earth by Deepa Anappara (12 February 2026, Oneworld)

Anappara's latest offering transitions from India to Tibet, delivering a thrilling historical adventure featuring an Indian teacher and an English explorer navigating a harsh landscape filled with danger and intrigue. Set during the colonial expansion of 1869, this tale is both enlightening and captivating.

4. Fruit Fly by Josh Silver (23 April 2026, Oneworld)

This is Silver's bold leap into adult fiction, deftly intertwining the lives of Mallory, a wealthy author, and Leo, a struggling individual, whose paths collide through a gay hook-up app. It's a darkly humorous exploration of addiction and inspiration that promises to keep you on your toes.

5. Hooked by Asako Yuzuki (12 March 2026, 4th Estate)

Yuzuki's acclaimed style returns with Hooked, diving deep into themes of food and obsession. As protagonist Eriko navigates the seafood industry with a controversial fish revival goal, her fixation on a social media friendship takes a dark turn, promising a thrilling narrative of culinary passion and personal turmoil.

6. Wimmy Road Boyz by Sufiyaan Salam (28 May 2026, #Merky Books)

This debut captures the chaotic essence of a single night out along Manchester's Curry Mile, blending vibrant storytelling with themes of friendship, mischief, and the modern-day experience. Salam gives voice to the youthful exuberance of one memorable evening.

7. Kids: Wait Till You Hear This! by Liza Minnelli (10 March 2026, Hodder & Stoughton)

In this much-anticipated memoir, the iconic Liza Minnelli opens up about her life experiences, infamous family connections, and struggles in a riveting narrative that promises both candor and charm. Prepare to be enchanted as she reflects on a life lived in the spotlight.

8. The Ending Writes Itself by Evelyn Clarke (7 April 2026, Harper Collins - HQ)

In a literary landscape spiked with intrigue, this thrilling mystery involving six authors competing to write the ending of a revered novelist's unfinished story set on a secluded island promises an exhilarating ride that explores satire within the publishing industry.

9. The Last King of Faerie by Cassandra Clare (Autumn 2026, Walker)

For Shadowhunters fans, Clare's latest installment promises to be a spellbinding blend of fantasy and adventure as beloved characters face the ultimate battle between good and evil. Expect a magical experience that concludes one of the genre's most famous sagas.

10. Mr Sidhu's Post Office by Amman Brar (2 July 2026, Juniper)

Touching on themes of love, grief, and community, Brar's family drama unfolds within the Horizon Post Office scandal backdrop. With a heartfelt exploration of familial ties, the engaging narrative will resonate deeply with readers, capturing their imaginations.

11. A Violent Masterpiece by Jordan Harper (4 June 2026, Faber & Faber)

Harper returns with a dark crime thriller that delves into the seedy underbelly of LA, laden with themes of power, fame, and danger. Expect an intense journey through murder and deceit that's hard to forget.

12. How to Talk to AI (And How Not To) by Jamie Bartlett (Penguin RandomHouse)

In this explorative narrative, Bartlett unravels the complex relationship between humanity and AI, providing insights into its societal implications. Essential reading for tech enthusiasts and skeptics alike, it's a thought-provoking look at a rapidly evolving subject.