The first half of the year produced some of the best debuts in recent memory. And the upcoming months promise to follow up with just as many unforgettable books from writers with promising careers ahead of them.
From family sagas to coming-of-age comedies, the novels, collections, and memoirs below represent the titles I’ve read completely, started and want more of, or have caught my attention.
When I last stopped counting, I had over 2,000 emails and submissions pitching debut books for all of 2026–an insane amount. These stood above the rest for one reason or another, but it doesn’t mean there won’t be a knockout book on this list. That’s the beauty of debut books. Even someone like me, who only reads debut writers, will miss a banger from time to time.
Still, these are ones that offer something for everyone. Lucious prose, taut pacing, fun concepts. You’ll find everything from literary fiction, horror, satire, and true crime in this list.
I hope you find your next favorite writer.
A bonus Most Anticipated Book that is not included below is Living, Together: Reimagining Community in the Age of Disconnection, edited by Samantha Paige Rosen. Why wasn’t it included? Because I have an essay in it and have already proclaimed it a Most Anticipated Debut Book. It features essays about home, found family, and finding connection in the modern age. Kristen Arnett, Kim Stanley Robinson, Sarah Thankam Mathews, and so many more amazing writers are featured in the anthology.
Continue reading “The Most Anticipated Debut Books of 2026, Part 2”