Books on my 2026 TBR!

As the year winds down, there's nothing quite like the excitement of curating a new 'read list' for the upcoming year! I've been dreaming up my perfect 2026 TBR, a blend of highly anticipated releases and a few gems I've been meaning to get to. It's more than just a list of books; it's a vision board for all the cozy reading moments and new worlds I'll explore. Speaking of cozy reading, my 2026 TBR really reflects that vibe. I envision snuggling up with an open book, maybe with a warm drink, diving into stories that transport me. From the images I've gathered, you can see I'm leaning heavily into fantasy and romance, with titles like 'Fourth Wing' and 'Red Rising' making the cut. I absolutely can't wait to see what all the hype is about with these! And of course, I have to continue some beloved series, so 'The Wicked King' is definitely on there, along with 'Dance of Thieves' to explore new magical realms and intriguing characters. Building your '2026 TBR list' can be a fun process, but sometimes it feels overwhelming with so many amazing books out there. Here are a few tips I use to curate mine: Don't Overcommit: It's tempting to add every single book that catches your eye, but try to be realistic. A manageable list is more enjoyable to tackle than one that feels like a chore. Balance Genres: If you mostly read fantasy, try to sprinkle in a thriller, a contemporary romance, or a non-fiction title. This helps prevent reading slumps and broadens your horizons. Mix New Releases with Backlist Titles: While new books are exciting, there are so many fantastic older books waiting to be discovered. I always try to include a few from my perennial 'want to read' list. Utilize Recommendations Wisely: Friends, booktok, bookstagram, and Lemon8 are great sources for new reads, but remember to pick books that genuinely appeal to *you*, not just what everyone else is loving. Once you have your dream 'read list' for 2026, the next challenge is actually getting through it! Here’s how I plan to make a dent in my own: Set Realistic Reading Goals: Instead of saying "I'll read 100 books," try "I'll read 2-3 books a month." It feels less daunting and more achievable. Join a Book Club or Buddy Read: Having someone to discuss a book with can be incredibly motivating and makes the reading experience even richer. Create a Reading Routine: Dedicate a specific time each day or week to reading. Even 15-30 minutes can add up quickly. This really helps achieve that cozy reading theme I mentioned! Don't Be Afraid to DNF (Did Not Finish): If a book isn't grabbing you, it's okay to set it aside. Life's too short to read books you're not enjoying. Pick up another one from your '2026 TBR list' instead! Audiobooks are Your Friend: For commutes, chores, or walks, audiobooks are an amazing way to squeeze in more reading time without needing to sit down with a physical book. I'm so excited for all the literary adventures 2026 will bring! What books are you most looking forward to adding to your 'read list' next year? I'd love to hear your top picks!