Literature & Fiction
Non-Fiction
Children's & Middle Grade
Young Adult
Romance
Mystery, Thriller, and Suspense
Sci-Fi & Fantasy
Best Books of the Year So Far
Looking for the best books of 2026? You've come to the right place. We have selected 140 of the best books of the year so far across today's most popular genres, from literary fiction and contemporary novels to romance, mystery, fantasy, young adult, children's books, and non-fiction.
Whether you're searching for an award-worthy novel, the latest BookTok favorite, an unforgettable thriller, or an inspiring non-fiction read, this curated list highlights the standout books readers are talking about in 2026. Every title is available at ThriftBooks, where you'll find millions of new and used books at prices you'll love.
Browse by genre below to discover your next favorite read.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best books of 2026 so far?
The best books of 2026 include standout new releases across fiction and non-fiction, including literary fiction, romance, mystery, thrillers, fantasy, science fiction, young adult, and children's books. This list highlights 140 of the most anticipated and highly rated books published so far this year.
What genres are included in the Best Books of the Year So Far list?
Our Best Books of the Year So Far list includes titles across multiple genres, including:
- Literature & Fiction
- Non-Fiction
- Children's & Middle Grade
- Young Adult
- Romance
- Mystery, Thriller & Suspense
- Sci-Fi & Fantasy
This makes it easy to discover the year's best books based on what you love to read.
How are the best books selected?
Our Best Books of the Year So Far list is curated using a combination of notable new releases, bestselling titles, reader popularity, industry buzz, and books making an impact throughout the year.
Where can I buy the best books of 2026?
You can shop every book featured on this list at ThriftBooks. With more than 19 million new and used books available, you'll often find these popular titles at discounted prices.
What are the best fiction books of 2026?
Some of the year's most talked-about fiction includes Whistler by Ann Patchett, Kin by Tayari Jones, John of John by Douglas Stuart, The Things We Never Say by Elizabeth Strout, Cherry Baby by Rainbow Rowell, The Midnight Train by Matt Haig, and Vigil by George Saunders.
What are the best non-fiction books of 2026?
This year's standout non-fiction includes A World Appears by Michael Pollan, The Land and Its People by David Sedaris, Talking Classics by Mary Beard, The Meaning of Your Life by Arthur C. Brooks, The Glorians: Visitations from the Holy Ordinary by Terry Tempest Williams, and The Story of Birds by Steve Brusatte.
What are the best romance books of 2026?
Popular romance releases this year include The Night We Met by Abby Jimenez, Our Perfect Storm by Carley Fortune, Rules for the Summer by Meghan Quinn, King of Gluttony by Ana Huang, The Shippers by Katherine Center, Score by Kennedy Ryan, and Archangel's Eternity by Nalini Singh, featuring everything from contemporary romance to romantasy.
What are the best mystery and thriller books of 2026?
If you enjoy suspense, you'll find new novels including The Keeper by Tana French, The Final Target by Nora Roberts, The Last Mandarin by Louise Penny, Dear Debbie by Freida McFadden, It Could Have Been Her by Lisa Jewell, Hope Rises by David Baldacci, and Judge Stone by James Patterson.
What are the best fantasy and science fiction books of 2026?
Fantasy and sci-fi readers can explore bestselling releases including Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros, Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by V.E. Schwab, Emily Wilde's Compendium of Lost Tales by Heather Fawcett, The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig, A Curse Carved in Bone by Danielle L. Jensen, Written on the Dark by Guy Gavriel Kay, and Threshold by Will Wight.
What are the best books for kids and teens in 2026?
This collection also includes outstanding Children's, Middle Grade, and Young Adult books including Talons of Power by Tui T. Sutherland, Wombat Waiting by Katherine Applegate, Forbidden Mountain by Brandon Mull, I Could Give You the Moon by Ann Liang, Release Me by Tahereh Mafi, Piper at the Gates of Dusk by Patrick Ness, and The Swan's Daughter by Roshani Chokshi.