7 best new books this week: From Booker Prize winner to Dua Lipa’s pick for 2026

There’s a wealth of new books being released this week that you’ll want to dive into and enjoy.

Each week, we check out the latest releases so you can easily find something new to read – or add to your growing list of books to read later.

Douglas Stuart, who previously won the Booker Prize, is releasing a new novel, John of John, that’s expected to be a bestseller. Also gaining attention is Sufiyaan Salam’s first novel, Wimmy Road Boyz, which has impressed readers like Dua Lipa.

If you’re looking for a thrilling escape, check out “Break Room,” a fictional thriller centered around a game show. Or, for something informative and captivating, explore a non-fiction book detailing the evolving Arctic environment.

Without further ado, read on for the best books released this week.

1. Frostlines – Neil Shea (Book of the Week, Radio 4)

In his new book, National Geographic writer Neil Shea vividly portrays the Arctic and the dramatic changes happening there due to climate change. Once a seemingly permanent and unforgiving environment, the Arctic is now entering a period of rapid transformation. Shea examines how these changes affect the people and wildlife of the region, from the wolves of Ellesmere Island in Canada to Indigenous hunters in Alaska and the shrinking caribou populations across North America. He also explores the geopolitical tensions rising in the Arctic, particularly between Russia and Europe. Through fascinating and often alarming observations, Shea reveals what’s being lost and what the future holds for this critical part of the world.

Frostlines, Pan Macmillan, out now

2. John of John – Douglas Stuart (Fiction Reading, Radio 4)

Okay, so Douglas Stuart, the author who blew everyone away with Shuggie Bain, has a new book out, and it’s already creating quite a stir. This one follows John-Calum, a young man who’s returned to his childhood home on the Isle of Harris after art school hasn’t quite worked out. He quickly realizes he’s the only one who seems to have changed. What really struck me was how Stuart beautifully portrays the tension between John-Calum and the two most important men in his life – his stoic farmer father and his vibrant Glaswegian grandmother. It’s a really powerful story about family, and the often-crushing weight of expectations we place on each other.

John of John, Pan Macmillan, out now

3. Break Room – Miye Lee

Eight people receive an invitation to a reality show called “Break Room,” but it’s a competition no one would envy. They were chosen by their colleagues as the most difficult people to take a break with. As the game unfolds and alliances form, the biggest challenge isn’t winning – it’s facing up to their own personalities and flaws.

Break Room, Wildfire, out now

4. I Want You To Be Happy – Jem Calder

Chuck and Joey strike up a connection at a bar, despite being from very different worlds. Joey is always worried about money, while Chuck has plenty. As they spend time together, Joey dreams of a future with Chuck, and Chuck hopes to escape a past regret. Their relationship makes both of them feel revitalized. With honest and humorous writing, Calder’s novel, I Want You to Be Happy, is already generating buzz as a fresh take on modern relationships and is set to be a major release in 2026.

I Want You To Be Happy, Faber & Faber, out now

5. Wimmy Road Boyz – Sufiyaan Salam

Salam’s first novel is generating buzz with critics and readers alike, and it’s easy to see why. “Wimmy Road Boyz” follows Immy, Khan, and Haris – three unexpected friends who find themselves in a world of trouble one night. Driven by a need to prove themselves and with nothing holding them back, the story unfolds over a single, intense evening. Salam’s unique and powerful writing is sure to spark conversation – it’s a book you won’t want to miss.

Wimmy Road Boyz, Merky Books, out Thursday

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6. The Repentants – Kate Foster

Set in 1790s Scotland, this story follows two women – one punished for adultery, the other for breaking religious rules – who find unexpected connection through their public shaming. As Florrie and Eliza’s friendship deepens, Florrie invites Eliza and her husband on a journey to Iceland. However, the trip hides a dark secret: Florrie’s husband intends to abandon her because of her past actions. Faced with betrayal, Florrie must decide if she can trust Eliza, or if other forces are at work. Foster delivers a compelling tale of hardship, deceit, and the fight for survival.

The Repentants, Mantle, out Thursday

7. Soviet Land – Pierre-Henry Gomont

In the aftermath of the Soviet Union’s collapse in the 1990s, two resourceful scavengers venture into the Russian wilderness, hoping to profit from forgotten treasures. Slava, a former aspiring artist forced to compromise his principles, teams up with his old school friend, the charming swindler Lavrin. As they navigate this chaotic new world, they struggle to survive, find love, and perhaps even rediscover their passions. This graphic novel by Gomont masterfully blends humor and suspense, offering a poignant look at a pivotal moment of change in Russia’s history.

Soviet Land, Abrams ComicArts, out Saturday

Stay up-to-date with the RT Book Club by visiting The TopMob Book Club, where you’ll find news, author interviews, Q&As, and reviews of past selections.

Authors

Helen DalyDeputy Digital Editor

Helen Daly leads new projects and business ventures as Deputy Digital Editor at TopMob. Before that, she worked as Deputy TV Editor for a national publication. She holds a BA in English Literature and an MA in Media & Journalism from Newcastle University.

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2026-05-24 09:35