As the new year comes around the corner, a new list of the most anticipated books of 2026 has been released. I know, I know, I’ve been writing a lot about books, but you need to know, it’s -14F in Minneapolis today, and I need something to get me through this Baltic weather. Curiously, I haven’t read any books from any of these series, so I’m looking forward to diving into these new storylines. I’ve done the research, analyzed the trends, and here are the most anticipated books of 2026.
Note for Readers: I will add links to each book so you can order them throughout the year! Enjoy!
Half His Age by Jeanette McCurdy | January 20, 2026
One of my favorites I read in 2024 was Jennette McCurdy’s memoir, I’m Glad My Mom Died. From Nickelodeon star to famous author, McCurdy’s latest novel follows high school student Waldo, a 17-year-old navigating the waves of puberty. She only has one thing on her mind: that can satisfy her – Mr. Korgy, her creative writing teacher, who is domesticated with a family, a home, and above all, a job and the feeling that the magic of life is in the rearview mirror.
Waldo doesn’t know what fascinates her about Korgy – is it that he knows more about the world? Whether it be books, films, and, most importantly, culture that lead her to want to be more? Or is it the familiarity one seldom feels when they cross paths with a kindred spirit? Wearing the same rose colored glasses to see the world. Half His Age is an exploration of how challenging the world can seem at 17, the obstacles it takes to overcome those challenges, and the desire to find connection through comedy, determination, and a passion for curiosity.
This is McCurdy’s first fictional novel, and it’s become one of the most anticipated books of the new year.
The Jills by Karen Parkman | February 10, 2026
This author’s debut novel follows Buffalo Bills cheerleader Virginia as she works to solve the disappearance of her best friend and teammate, Jeanine. What follows is Virginia’s turbulent adventure of finding out what happened, and to do she must visit some storied characters – ex-boyfriends, criminal underlings and unexpected visitors from her own past. The Jills is a story about uncovering one’s own strength and finding the power to stand up in a male-dominated world.
Every list had named The Jills one of the most anticipated books of the year! I can’t wait for another great mystery!
And Now, Back to You by B.K. Borison | February 26, 2026
One of the most anticipated books in romance comes from the author who brought us First Time Caller. The story of two competing meteorologists who are forced to cover a monumental snowstorm. While one is buttoned up and the other is more fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants, when they are forced to work together, they discover they have more in common, and a surprising friendship develops, leading to romantic feelings bubbling to the surface. Will they be able to weather the storm?
I know this is one of my friends and family’s most anticipated books because they love this author and her writing style!
You with the Sad Eyes by Christina Applegate | March 3, 2026
Actress Christina Applegate has done everything – Broadway, Television, Film, and more. Her autobiography follows her California roots, her complex personal and professional journey, and most recently, her MS diagnosis. This highly anticipated memoir aims to make people feel less alone and more connected to the world.
American Fantasy by Emma Straub | April 7, 2026
Imagine being in a 1990s boy band, the lights, the fame, the adoring fans, then fast forward to the present day, and the best gig the band can get is a four-day cruise on the American Fantasy. The cruise is full of adoring fans who have worshipped the band for over three decades.
One of those fans is Annie, a recently divorced, empty-nester who is on the cruise with her sister. Even though she fangirled over the band decades ago, she’s moved on from her childhood crush, that is, until she has a run-in with her favorite band member.
What she soon finds is someone she thinks has it all, but who is actually looking for a friend. This book is about middle age, nostalgia and the magic of revisiting one’s past passions, and what can be newly discovered.
The Midnight Train by Matt Haig | May 26, 2026
The Midnight Train, like its predecessor, the Midnight Library, is about recapturing a moment in one’s life that could change its trajectory. If your life flashes across your existence, where would you tell it to stop? The Midnight Train takes you there. This story allows for this moment to be reborn and to reflect one’s character a that time. This time-bending love story is among the most anticipated books of 2026.
A Pair of Aces by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray | June 23, 2026
From the best-selling authors who brought us The Personal Librarian comes their next novel that follows two high-powered females – a prosecutor and a brothel owner – who create a network of women to take down a mob boss. When two women, regardless of their backgrounds, come together for a common goal, what could go wrong?
Read the Most Anticipated Book of 2026
These are the most anticipated books of 2026. There are great books across all genres, but I focused on the most anticipated titles in the categories you enjoy. What books are you looking forward to reading in 2026? I also have a list of best-selling authors, author highlights, and more for you to enjoy!