Whether you’re looking to recapture your love of reading or just hoping to pick up more books, there are plenty of exciting releases lined up for 2026.
With highly anticipated releases including The Ending Writes Itself by Evelyn Clarke – which has gained the approval of authors such as Stephen King – and Booker Prize winner Douglas Stuart’s upcoming novel John of John, this could be the year that you discover your new favourite book.
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Perhaps instead of a new book, you will uncover a new favourite author. There are a number of exciting debuts novels due out this year, including A Bad, Bad Place from Glasgow author Frances Crawford as well as Lost Lambs by Madeline Cash, which has been praised by The Scotsman’s own Stuart Kelly.
READ MORE Stuart Kelly: 'These are the books I'm looking forward to reading (and re-reading) in 2026'
It could even be that you’re eagerly awaiting the latest instalment of your favourite series, with follow ups coming from authors including Ali Smith. There’s also the upcoming release of The Ballad Of Falling Dragons by Sarah A. Parker to look forward to, with the novel marking the highly anticipated sequel to her hugely popular romantasy book When The Moon Hatched.
Regardless of your preferences, there is sure to be something for everyone in this list of 27 of the most exciting books coming out in 2026.
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9. The Rouse by China Miéville
Little is known about fantasy legend China Miéville's upcoming book The Rouse. Following his collaboration with Keanu Reeves, it will be his first novel for adults since 2011. While there is no cover yet, The Rouse will follow an ordinary woman who is forced to investigate a devastating personal tragedy, leading her to stumble into dark conspiracies. — Out September 17 | The Scotsman
10. Son of Nobody by Yann Martel
From the author of Life of Pi, Son of Nobody sees classics scholar Harlow Donne uncover a lost account of the Trojan War while at Oxford University, Choosing to to study the text, he begins translating the epic poem while leaving behind heartfelt footnotes for his daughter Helen. — Out April 2 | Canongate
11. Hooked by Asako Yuzuki
Following the release of Butter, Asako Yuzuki's next book will be released in march. Translated by Polly Barton (who is also featured on this list as an author), Hooked is a novel about friendship, obsession and the female experience - again with a focus on food. — Out March 12 | Fourth Estate
12. Stations by Louise Kennedy
Louise Kennedy will soon follow up the Channel 4 adaptation of her acclaimed debut Trespasses, with the release of her second novel, Stations, later this year. While its cover has yet to be revealed, we know the book will open in 1982 and trace the paths of two Irish teens as they grow up and apart, while still longing to reach one another. — Out September 24 | The Scotsman