Fantasy fans have a lot to look forward to as the new year approaches. With highly anticipated sequels, bold new standalone novels, and long-awaited releases from beloved authors, 2026 is shaping up to be an incredible year for fantasy fiction. Whether you’re excited for epic world-building, clever low fantasy, or genre-blending stories, there’s something here for everyone.

After an outstanding year for fantasy in 2025—kicked off by major releases like Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros—it’s clear that the genre shows no signs of slowing down. Even as many readers are still catching up on last year’s best books, publishers and authors are already lining up an exciting slate for the year ahead.

That’s why we’re sharing our list of the most anticipated fantasy books of 2026. These upcoming releases include bestselling authors, fan-favorite series, and a few potential breakout gems you won’t want to miss.

The Most Anticipated Fantasy Books of 2026

Fantasy Releases We’re Most Excited About

Whenever Fonda Lee announces a new novel, it feels like a major event—and The Last Contract of Isako is no exception. Described as a story about corporate samurai, this upcoming fantasy novel promises sharp world-building, high-stakes intrigue, and the compelling storytelling Lee is known for.

One of the most eagerly awaited releases of the year is Platform Decay by Martha Wells, the eighth installment in The Murderbot Diaries. This series quickly became one of the most enjoyable reads of 2025, blending sci-fi, fantasy, and humor in a way few authors can pull off. Thankfully, the wait for the next installment isn’t too long.

Fans of rich historical fantasy should also mark their calendars for The Tapestry of Fate, the second book in Shannon Chakraborty’s Amina al-Sirafi series. Chakraborty continues to impress with immersive world-building, unforgettable characters, and stories that feel refreshingly different from traditional fantasy.

Nine Goblins by T. Kingfisher

new fantasy books 2026
Nine Goblins: A Tale of Low Fantasy and High Mischief by T. Kingfisher

Another standout on this list is Nine Goblins by T. Kingfisher, an author who consistently delivers clever, heartfelt, and wildly entertaining fantasy stories. This novel promises low-fantasy chaos and high mischief, offering a fresh take on goblins as protagonists. Tolkien made readers fall in love with hobbits—Kingfisher just might do the same for goblins.

More Fantasy Authors to Watch in 2026

If you enjoy inventive magic systems and genre-blending stories, Robert Jackson Bennett is always a safe bet. His upcoming novel A Trade of Blood, the third book in the Shadow of the Leviathan series, combines fantasy and detective fiction with a unique twist that keeps readers hooked.

And no list of anticipated fantasy books would be complete without Brandon Sanderson. His upcoming standalone Isles of the Emberdark, set within the Cosmere, is one of the most talked-about fantasy releases of 2026. With Sanderson’s track record, expectations are understandably high.

Conclusion

These are just some of the many fantasy books set to release in 2026, and there’s no doubt that even more standout titles will emerge as the year unfolds. From epic sequels to exciting new worlds, this upcoming year is packed with must-read fantasy novels.

While I made it a goal to explore other genres in 2025, 2026 is all about returning to my first love: fantasy. This list will definitely help guide my reading choices—and hopefully yours too.

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