10 Best New Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books to Read Fall 2026
Polygon’s fall 2026 reading guide highlights recommended science fiction and fantasy releases for the cooler months ahead. The roundup emphasizes that fall is an ideal season for reading, as rainy and cold weather creates an inviting atmosphere for curling up with new titles.
The selection spans multiple subgenres and includes anticipated releases across different types of works. Notable entries feature continuations in established fantasy series alongside standalone science fiction novels and fresh projects from acclaimed authors. The guide caters to diverse reader preferences, from dark humor to epic narratives to surreal mysteries.
Among the highlighted releases is “Dead Beat” by Leigh Bardugo, releasing September 15, which concludes her Ninth House trilogy. The novel follows Alex Stern, a Yale University student tasked with regulating the secret societies operating within the university’s campus.