Tag: top 3 reads

I’ve enjoyed several books this year, but there are some standout books of 2026 that I want to share before the end of the year. That way, if you’re looking for some great reads to add to your 2026 reading list, you’ve got some recommendations from me. 

Here are my top 3 reads of 2026 so far! 

Yellowface – R.F. Kuang

I have enjoyed a few books by R.F. Kuang. My first 5* read of 2026 was Yellowface, hence why it makes the list! 

The moral dilemma explored in this book is a fun one to watch play out. To see how June rationalises and justifies her behaviour is scary yet believable. I also enjoyed reading a book that is so open about the publishing industry. Becoming an author is somewhat glamorised. The truth of the exclusivity of success and becoming a well-known bestseller is interesting to explore. It’s not something I’ve considered before, but I can believe. 

Yellowface is a quick read, entertaining to consider and written very approachable for all readers. 

Project Hail Mary – Andy Weir

I picked up Project Hail Mary on a whim. In an attempt to complete the Summer Goodreads Reading challenge, I prioritised Project Hail Mary as it qualified for two awards. 

Honestly, it surprised me. I’m especially glad I picked this up in audio format. It was a fun experience and I loved the characterisation of Rocky that we get in this format that I’m not sure would translate the same written down. I think I’d like to try it in future to see how it compares. 

If my intention to re-read the book doesn’t say how much I enjoyed it, then I don’t know what will! 

Wild Dark Shore – Charlotte McConaghy

Wild Dark Shore was also a Goodreads Reading challenge selection. I had added it to my TBR before knowing it was eligible for the Goodreads Winter challenge. However, it was expedited in March this year as I wanted to push to complete that challenge. 

This is another read that exceeded expectations. Due to a deadline on the book being returned to the library, I ended up bingeing a large section of the book. Even still, I was engrossed in the ending irrespective of the timeline I needed to finish it by. It was an engaging book, and one that will appeal to many mystery fans. 

Summary 

Some of my best reads of the year are books I didn’t entirely expect to pick up, or came about because the Goodreads reading challenges prompted me to add or expedite the books. Even if I’ve yet to complete a challenge, they’ve proved beneficial in providing my top 3 reads of 2026 so far! 

What are your top 3 reads of 2026 so far? 

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