Why not start off the new year with one of these reads?
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGES VIA PAN MACMILLAN, HARPERCOLLINS PUBLISHERS INC, HACHETTE CHILDREN’S GROUP
If your New Year’s resolution for 2026 is to read more, then you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re into graphic novels, rom-coms or a bit of fantasy fun, 2026 is shaping up to be a year filled with exciting new book releases. We’ve selected a few of the LGBTQIA+ releases we’re most excited for to give you some inspiration for your bookshelves.
Heartstopper volume six by Alice Oseman
Release date: 2 July
Brb, we’re just wiping away our tears. Yes, the iconic Heartstopper series will be coming to a close with one final hurrah in the form of the sixth book. In this beautiful finale to one of the most heartwarming LGBTQIA+ stories of the decade, Charlie finds himself busy with his bid to become head boy while Nick prepares for the challenges of starting university.
Hell’s Heart by Alexis Hall
Release date: 19 February
A sapphic, sci-fi retelling of Moby Dick? Count us in! In Alexis Hall’s science fiction debut, Earth is ruined and life in the solar system is now sustained by a volatile, hallucinogenic substance called spermaceti. In this tale the narrator sets out in the pursuit to find this precious substance. However, when she meets the captain of this mission – a charismatic woman named “A” – it’s clear things won’t be smooth sailing. After meeting a woman named Q on board, it appears that the narrator is in for a queer as hell ride into the unknown.
Better Catch Up, Krishna Kumar by Anahita Karthik
Release date: 19 January
If you’re more into rom-coms, then this new release should definitely be on your list. Krishna Kumar may have gotten into her dream college, but that doesn’t stop her being a complete dating disaster. Yep, despite flirting all summer with her neighbour, she’s still going to be the only freshman who’s never been kissed. But her luck might change when her flight home is delayed and she has one final chance to seal the deal.
Smash Or Pass by Birdie Schae
Release date: 12 May
If young adult romance is more your scene, check out this new release from Birdie Schae. When autistic people-pleaser Ellie plans to reinvent herself at beach volleyball summer camp, it seems like nothing could go wrong. That is, at least, until she finds herself developing feelings for her grumpy teammate…
Love Galaxy by Sierra Branham
Release date: 7 May
Sci-fi meets dating shows in this exciting new release! Temmi never expected to secure a slot on the wildly popular dating show Love Galaxy. On the show 24 contestants have to woo the brother and sister heirs to the galactic empire. But things start to go a bit awry when Temmi finds herself wooing the Princess rather than the Prince…
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