Welcome to The Book Briefing, your weekly catch-up on all the biggest moments from the literary world. From surprise book announcements and cover reveals to bestseller wins and BookTok drama, the literary world has been busy this week. We've rounded up the biggest stories readers are talking about right now, all in one place.
Persepolis' creator Marjane Satrapi dies aged 56
Marjane Satrapi, the acclaimed French-Iranian author, artist and filmmaker behind the bestselling graphic memoir 'Persepolis', has died in Paris at the age of 56.
Satrapi became an international literary figure through her powerful portrayal of growing up during and after the Iranian Revolution, with 'Persepolis' later adapted into an Oscar-nominated animated film. Tributes have poured in from across the literary and cultural world, with many celebrating her lasting impact on storytelling, feminism and human rights advocacy.
BookTok is divided over the ‘Hot Girls Read’ trademark
A growing controversy is unfolding across the book community after small business Allie Rose Co. secured a trademark for the phrase “Hot Girls Read”.
The backlash intensified after the brand shared a now-deleted Instagram post celebrating the news, writing: “Hot Girls Read™ is officially ours 🤩” and explaining that the slogan began as a design on its bookmarks and apparel three years ago. Critics argue the phrase has been widely used across BookTok and online reading communities for years, sparking debate over whether a community-driven slogan should be owned by a single business.
The discussion has since spread across social media, with readers, creators and small businesses weighing in on the trademark dispute.
James Patterson and Mr Beast are teaming up for a thriller novel
In one of publishing's most unexpected collaborations, bestselling author James Patterson and YouTube superstar MrBeast are co-writing a thriller set to be released in 2026.
The novel follows 100 contestants competing in a high-stakes global competition filled with dangerous challenges, betrayals and life-or-death consequences, all for the chance to win a staggering $1 billion prize. The project reportedly sparked an eight-figure bidding war for publishing rights and is already generating buzz thanks to its blend of Patterson's thriller expertise and MrBeast's signature larger-than-life competition format.
E.L. James has revealed the cover for her first YA fantasy novel
E.L. James is stepping into a new genre with the reveal of the cover for 'Land of Ghosts', the first book in an upcoming YA fantasy duology. Best known for the 'Fifty Shades' series, James described the novel as an "impossible love story" centred on grief, healing, loss and romance.
The story follows Emily Beauchamp, a teenager rebuilding her life after a devastating tragedy, who finds herself drawn to a mysterious young man that only she can see. 'Land of Ghosts' is set for release in October 2026, with a sequel, 'Land of Dreams', following in 2027.
Dungeon Crawler Carl narrator is so good fans think he’s multiple people
Jeff Hays, the voice actor behind the bestselling 'Dungeon Crawler Carl' audiobooks, has become a sensation among listeners thanks to his ability to voice dozens of wildly different characters so convincingly that many fans assume the recordings feature multiple actors.
In reality, it's all Hays, whose range and performances have helped turn the series into one of the biggest audiobook success stories in fantasy. As the popularity of the series continues to grow, readers are increasingly recognising Hays as a major reason the audiobooks have earned such a devoted following.
'Heated Rivalry' fans, you're going to want this on your shelf
The cover has officially been revealed for 'I'll Believe in Anything', a new collector's book celebrating the beloved 'Heated Rivalry' adaptation.
Featuring fan-favourite duo Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, the book is packed with behind-the-scenes content, annotated scripts and exclusive insights from creator Jacob Tierney. If you're still not over these two, consider this your sign to clear some space on your bookshelf before its October 2026 release.
Readers have crowned their favourite novels of all time
The Guardian has revealed its readers' top 100 novels of all time, with J.R.R. Tolkien's 'The Lord of the Rings' taking the number one spot ahead of classics including George Eliot's 'Middlemarch', Jane Austen's 'Pride and Prejudice' and Harper Lee's 'To Kill a Mockingbird'. Compiled from reader submissions around the world, the list celebrates a mix of beloved classics and modern favourites, highlighting the books that have left the biggest impact on generations of readers.
We've made a list of the top novels here so you can browse and shop them!
This chart-topping fantasy is having a huge moment
Sarah A. Parker is celebrating a major milestone after 'The Ballad of Falling Dragons' debuted at number one on the New York Times, USA Today and Sunday Times bestseller lists, while also claiming the top spot in both Australia and New Zealand.
Sharing the news with readers, Parker thanked fans for embracing the story and supporting the journey behind the book, which she says was carefully crafted to honour its characters and their world. The achievement marks another huge moment for the bestselling fantasy author and her ever-growing global readership.
Alice Feeney's next thriller is officially on the way
The ‘His & Hers’ author just announced her next thriller, 'TWIST', and it already sounds wildly chaotic and addictive. The story follows flight attendant Ariella Valentine, who marries the man of her dreams, has the perfect honeymoon, then heads home to her other husband.
Packed with secrets, revenge and Feeney's biggest twists yet, 'TWIST' is shaping up to be a must-read for thriller fans. Feeney has shared that it's the longest she's ever spent writing a book, making this one feel extra special ahead of its early 2027 release.
B.K. Borison has revealed the cover for her next romance
The bestselling romance author has given readers a first look at 'Longtime Listener', unveiling the cover for the highly anticipated third book in her Heartstrings series.
The novel follows radio station manager Maggie Lin and corporate executive Cooper West, who unknowingly form a connection as anonymous online pen pals while finding themselves on opposite sides of a business takeover. With its bright, charming cover and a story inspired by 'You've Got Mail', 'Longtime Listener' is already shaping up to be a must-read for romance fans ahead of its February 2027 release.
That's all for this book briefing! For more bookish news, new releases, staff picks and plenty more from all the team at Book Hero, follow us on Instagram at @bookheronz and check back here on our blog as we post regularly!