Shirl’s 10 Most Anticipated Books of the Year

Banjara by Shana Chandra

As soon as I was presented with this book and its stunning cover I knew I had to read it especially as it is being published by Moa Press, whose previous books like Amma and The Vanishing Place have been my favourites of mine. Banjara is a powerful and beautifully written book.

Shana Chandra transports you to the sights and smells of India and Fiji through her immersive writing. I must admit I didn’t know much about the history and relationship between India and Fiji, and this book offers a clear, moving insight into how that shared history has shaped generations. 

It’s a deeply affecting read that lingers long after the final page, inviting reflection on identity, belonging, and the stories we carry with us. Banjara will be released on 14th April 2026.

Stakes: A Memoir by Noelle McCarthy

When Noelle hinted at an upcoming book release on her Instagram late last year, I literally screamed with excitement. I have been a fan of her journalism and writing style over the years. Her previous memoir Grand was one that stuck with me long after I finished it. I’m eagerly awaiting my ARC copy for Stakes but I already know it’s going to be one I’ll devour!

Strange Buildings by Uketsu

I love quirky crime thrillers and have been enjoying Uketsu’s mystery series. The creepy drawings make me feel like a detective as I try to solve each mystery. I’m so looking forward to reading this one, it’s out now!

The Midnight Train by Matt Haig

Matt Haig’s The Midnight Library is a book I’ve recommended countless times, it’s one of my favourite books that was just a beautiful read and stayed with me long after. So when I heard about his next book The Midnight Train I was so ready for it!

I currently have an ARC copy in my hot little hands and I’m sure it will be just as delightful as The Midnight Library. The Midnight Train will be out on 26th May 2026.

Peck & Peck by Bonnie Garmus

I absolutely adored Bonnie Garmus’ debut novel Lessons in Chemistry and it seems so did the rest of the world especially with the development of the brilliant TV show starring Brie Larson. Her next book, Peck & Peck, follows a young man in 1980s New York whose life is turned upside down when he lands a job at a chaotic, prestigious poetry journal while trying to figure out his place in the world and pursue his unlikely dream of writing poetry.

I love Bonnie’s fresh and original writing so I’m super excited for this one which will be released later in the year on 27th October. 

Main Characters by Bobby Palmer

I was instantly hooked into this book by the cover!

The story also sounds great, a love story with a twist, told by everyone but the main characters themselves.

I feel like this one will have all the wonderful elements of Bobby Palmer’s Isaac and the Egg. I can’t wait to read this one! Main Characters will be released 30th June 2026.

The Other Catherine by Lauren Keenan

I’ve been waiting for Lauren Keenan’s follow up to The Space Between and it will finally be coming in April.

If you are a fan of historical fiction, especially if set in Aotearoa, then I’m sure you will enjoy this read. The Other Catherine will be released on 21st April 2026.

Honey by Imani Thompson

There is already a lot of buzz (sorry for the pun!) around this debut novel from Imani Thompson. This one is next on my TBR pile after The Midnight Train and it seems like it will be a fun crazy read!

If you’re a fan of Asako Yuzuki or Oyinkan Braithwaite then I think you will enjoy this one. Honey is out 2nd June 2026.

Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke

Another debut novel already generating serious buzz in the literary world. Caro Claire Burke’s Yesteryear is being described as The Handmaid’s Tale meets The Stepford Wives, blending chilling social commentary with an unsettling look at power, control, and the roles women are expected to play.

With early buzz building and early praise from the likes of Nita Prose and Abigail Dean, this is a debut that promises to captivate readers and spark conversation.

Sophie, Standing There by Meg Mason

Following the huge success of Sorrow and Bliss, Meg Mason returns with another emotionally astute, darkly funny novel about loneliness, love, and the unexpected ways we find connection.

Sophie, Standing There follows Sophie Pattison, a warm, kind woman whose life quietly begins to unravel, she clings to the comfort she finds in books. 

When she rediscovers a beloved author whose words feel almost like companionship, Sophie’s growing attachment becomes a lifeline, raising the question of how deeply stories and the people that write them can shape our lives. I’m eagerly awaiting an ARC copy for this one! Sophie, Standing There will be released on 28th July.