Sign up for Book Club
Stay up to date on local books news, events, and recommendations from Boston.com.
The 5 most exciting books to read this spring — what’s on your list?
From sweeping historical fiction to gripping psychological thrillers, these new spring 2026 book releases belong on your TBR.
Spring means a fresh wave of must-read books — and this season’s new releases deliver. From sweeping historical retellings to page-turning psychological thrillers, these standout titles deserve a spot on your reading list.
Looking for your next great read? Start here — then tell us what’s on your list, whether it’s a buzzy new release or an old favorite you’re finally picking up.
“Sweetbitter Song” by Rosie Hewlett
A historical, sapphic retelling of Melantho and Penelope from Homer’s “Odyssey,” perfect for fans of Madeline Miller’s “Song of Achilles.” Expect vivid world-building and a love story as epic as its predecessor.
Release date: March 17, 2026
“Under Water” by Tara Menon
In this evocative work of literary fiction, Menon, a professor at Harvard University, explores the aftermath of the loss of friendship through the life of Marissa and her best friend Arielle. Spanning decades and two natural disasters, “Under Water” is a contemplative, slow-burning novel that invites readers to swim in its emotional undercurrents.
Release date: March 17, 2026
“How Flowers Made Our World” by David George Haskell
Two-time Pulitzer finalist and biologist David George Haskell explores how flowers, often dismissed as mere aesthetic plants, are actually foundational to humanity and evolution. Best read outside when flowers begin to bloom.
Release date: March 24, 2026
“Yesteryear” by Caro Claire Burke
This twisty psychological thriller begins with a haunting premise: a modern “tradwife” influencer suddenly finds herself trapped in the harsh realities of 1855. As past and present collide, “Yesteryear” explores tradition, fame, and survival in a story that’s as unsettling as it is addictive.
Release date: April 7, 2026
“Last Night in Brooklyn” by Xochitl Gonzalez
A vibrant coming-of-age story set in Brooklyn in 2007, this novel follows Alicia Canales Forten and her obsession with her alluring neighbor, La Garza. Gonzalez captures the energy of a neighborhood shaped by gentrification and a nation on the brink of financial ruin.
Release date: April 21, 2026
What book are you reading?
Spring reading season is all about discovery — finding that one book you can’t put down, or the story that stays with you for weeks. Which of these titles are you most excited to read?
Advertisement:
And more importantly: what’s on your spring reading list? Share your picks in the form below or e-mail us at [email protected], and your response may be featured in an upcoming Boston.com article.
What are you reading in spring 2026?
To comment, please create a screen name in your profile
To comment, please verify your email address
Conversation
This discussion has ended. Please join elsewhere on Boston.com