Need some books to add to your collection for September 2026? This month has a great selection of newly released (or soon-to-be-released!) reads that span multiple genres, such as romance, historical fiction, Hollywood drama, and coming-of-age. Here’s what readers’ reviews and online book communities had to say about September 2026 releases.
The Knave and the Moon by Rachel Gillig
Rachel Gillig’s new release, “The Knave and the Moon,” is a highly anticipated sequel to “The Knight and the Moth.” If you love adult fantasy with a hint of gothic romance, then this series is definitely one to explore. Readers are taken to Stonewater Kingdom, where Sybil Delling is determined to fight against the ruling king and his large cohorts.
Goodreads readers have already given the book a 4.36 rating, with fans praising Gillig’s composition and dark atmosphere. Others enjoyed the humor aspect and family dynamics. Some argue that the sequel repeats the first novel’s plot and that the protagonist has lost her sense of independence. Overall, the reviews remain fairly high, with over 14,000 5-star reviews.
Hollywood, Ending by John Green
Bestselling author John Green is set to release his new book, “Hollywood, Ending,” on September 22. The plot follows actors Kai Laramie and Juniper Castillo after they are cast in a “buzzy biopic” dedicated to artist Andy Warhol. As the characters’ careers begin to take off and the story unfolds, they discover that fame can eliminate the privilege of a private life.
The novel has a 4.39-star rating on Goodreads based on pre-release reviews. Early readers and critics praised Green’s articulation of today’s attention economy in a romantic and comedic way. One reviewer specifically noted that the novel presents a similar portrait of young love in Green’s other books, with a modern social media element. This book is also his first novel for adults, rather than a YA audience, making this a notable release for September.
Tempest by Victoria Aveyard
Victoria Aveyard’s “Tempest” features pirates, romance, and a war at sea. If that’s something that piques your interest, definitely check out her new series from the bestselling author of the “Red Queen” collection.
The plot follows Cat Rose, a former aristocrat who has left her husband to become the owner of a “pirate tavern.” When the Meridian Empire threatens the pirates, Cat is forced to confront the legendary pirate captain Valerian Kane.
Goodreads has already rated “Tempest” at 3.83 stars with over 1,700 ratings. The novel has been praised for its slow-burning plot and political significance. Readers watch Cat transform from being chained to her husband to becoming a strong, independent woman. Some reviewers compared the book to “Pirates of the Caribbean,” noting that the plot features similar romantic storylines and feminist ideals, so if you love the films, this September 8 release will be sure to hook you.
Taipei Story by R.F. Kuang
“Taipei Story” by R. F. Kuang, also released September 8, follows Lily Chen, a Chinese-American college student who travels to Taiwan. She’s in an intensive language program, hoping to improve her skills and reconnect with her family’s culture. Lily quickly faces the challenges of her classes, roommate conflicts, and the feeling of being an outsider in a country she thought would “feel like home.”
Kuang drew inspiration for this story from her own experience studying abroad in Taiwan, though the novel isn’t completely an autobiography. This story is especially geared towards older teens transitioning from high school into adult life. Goodreads readers have currently rated the book at 3.65 stars, making it one of the more polarizing titles on this list. Some fans praised Kuang’s accurate portrayal of Taiwan, while others found the story slower and more personal than her previous novels. Either way, this book is a complete-180 from her bestsellers, “Babel” and “Yellowface.”
Exit Party by Emily St. John Mandel
If you loved Emily St. John Mandel’s “Station Eleven,” you should also add “Exit Party” to your list of September reads.
The plot takes place in the year 2031 in Los Angeles after the United States has entered a civil war. Ari Waker, who has recently been released from prison, heads to the first party she’s been to in quite a while. But the event takes a turn when people who shouldn’t be there begin to appear. From there, the story jumps to Ari’s life in Paris, but she is still haunted by that night that has transformed her sense of reality.
Since its initial launch on September 15, the book has gained over 900 ratings and a 4.3 on Goodreads. Mandel’s novel is geared towards an adult audience as the plot contains mature subject matter. Early readers have praised the author for crafting a plot that requires them to connect the dots, applauding the book’s “rich in nuanced characters.”
Whether you’re looking for fantasy, romance, sci-fi, pirates, or coming-of-age, this September’s new releases have something for everyone. We hope that you add one of these novels to your TBR (to-be-read) list! If you enjoyed one of these titles or want to add some of your own picks, we also ask that you suggest them in our upcoming Parenthood Together book club!
If you’re interested in participating or would like to suggest a book for the group, fill out our short Google Form here!: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdl2t429II4KHytsV6W9igYS4wOW3qWwTzstDK3SyArlrviwQ/viewform
In-person interest (NY/NJ area): https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfvlHEOlCjYY50JR3VV3mMJg6-NRKxFcntW1mVIJgCvuAjT8g/viewform
