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.
25. Having Spent Life Seeking by Kae Tempest
Award-winning writer and musician Kae Tempest will release his first novel in almost a decade in 2026. Described by Ali Smith as "powerful and merciful", Having Spent Life Seeking explores the life of Rothko Taylor as they arrive back in their hometown fifteen years after they left it behind. — Out April 4 | Jonathan Cape / Penguin
26. The Midnight Train by Matt Haig
Set in the world of Matt Haig's bestseller The Midnight Library, The Midnight Train is a time travelling love story which follows Wilbur, whose best days were with Maggie, the love of his life, on his honeymoon. However if you had the chance to re-live moments meaningful to you, where would you stop? — Out May 21 | Canongate Books
27. Lost Lambs by Madeline Cash — Out February 5
Last but far from least is Lost Lambs by Madeline Cash. The author's debut novel, The Scotsman's critic Stuart Kelly shared that it had him "entranced, aghast and laughing immediately" and as such is well worth a read in 2026. — Out February 5 | Penguin / Doubleday