Narrowing down the breadth of sci-fi and fantasy listens to a slim list is always a challenge, and 2026 was no exception. Many of our favourite authors returned with new series entries (and enders) or stand-alone novels, and this year's slate of debuts was particularly impressive. This collection leans into originality, new voices, and themes that feel of the moment: from speculative explorations of identity to delightful metafiction and classic, cinematic adventures through space and time. We believe each title on this list deserves the attention of any sci-fi and fantasy fan—and judging by their popularity, those listeners likely already have a head start.
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