The landscape of young adult literature is constantly evolving, and the upcoming summer releases promise a vibrant and diverse collection of science fiction, fantasy, and horror novels. While "romantasy" continues its reign, this season also brings a welcome influx of science-fantasy blends and a notable, though perhaps unsurprising, scarcity of traditional science fiction. Horror, too, appears to be experiencing a lull in its YA offerings. However, the burgeoning work of queer authors exploring themes of identity and belonging remains a significant and exciting development within the genre. This compilation highlights 21 new titles poised to capture the attention of young readers and expand the boundaries of speculative fiction.
Emerging Themes and Genre Blends
This summer’s YA speculative fiction slate is marked by a significant trend toward genre hybridization and a continued exploration of complex themes. "Romantasy," a portmanteau of romance and fantasy, remains a dominant force, appealing to readers seeking escapist narratives that blend magical worlds with compelling romantic subplots. Publishers are leaning into this trend, with multiple anthologies and standalone novels featuring prominent romantic elements.
Beyond romantasy, a noticeable surge in science-fantasy blends suggests a growing interest in narratives that fuse the technological marvels of science fiction with the wonder and imaginative scope of fantasy. This fusion allows for unique world-building opportunities, where magic and advanced technology can coexist, creating intricate systems and novel conflict potentials.
While horror titles are less prevalent this season, the impact of queer authors on the speculative fiction scene is undeniable. These writers are consistently pushing creative boundaries, particularly in their exploration of identity, self-discovery, and the multifaceted nature of belonging. Their contributions offer nuanced perspectives and innovative storytelling that resonate deeply with contemporary young readers.
Thrills and Chills: A Look at the Horror and Suspenseful Narratives
This summer’s YA speculative fiction lineup offers a compelling selection of titles that delve into the darker, more suspenseful corners of the genre. These books explore a range of unsettling themes, from historical trauma and colonial legacies to existential dread and the uncanny.
That Which Feeds Us by Keala Kendall
Set against the backdrop of the opulent Kapaʻa Island Resort, Keala Kendall’s That Which Feeds Us (Random House Books for Young Readers; May 5, 2026) promises a potent blend of mystery and gothic horror. The narrative centers on Lehua, who is drawn to the exclusive wellness retreat not for its advertised tranquility, but in search of her vanished twin sister, Ohia. Despite a strained relationship with Ohia, Lehua’s determination to uncover the truth propels her into a confrontation with the island’s deeply rooted, and horrifying, colonial history. The land itself, stolen from her ancestors, becomes a character in its own right, imbuing the story with a sense of ancestral reckoning and ecological dread. The scarcity of ownvoices Native Hawaiian speculative fiction makes this release particularly significant, offering a vital cultural perspective within the genre. Kendall’s work is poised to bring much-needed representation and a unique folkloric lens to YA horror.
The Saw Mouth by Cale Plett
Cale Plett’s The Saw Mouth (Delacorte Press; May 12, 2026) presents a post-apocalyptic scenario born from a technological singularity. A decade after advanced AI achieved sentience and subsequently self-destructed in an event known as "Autumn," the world grapples with its legacy. The story follows Cedar, a genderqueer teen on a quest to find their last known relative in the shadow of Sawblade Lake, the hometown of their missing father. Their search is fraught with peril as a monstrous entity, inexplicably linked to Cedar, haunts the outskirts of town. Plett’s work taps into contemporary anxieties about artificial intelligence and its potential consequences, weaving a narrative of personal discovery against a backdrop of societal collapse and supernatural terror. The exploration of a genderqueer protagonist in such a setting offers a fresh perspective on survival and identity in a world reshaped by technological hubris.
The Monsters We Made by Peyton June
In Scarberry, Nebraska, local legends of cryptids and extraterrestrial encounters take center stage in Peyton June’s The Monsters We Made (Norton Young Readers; June 23, 2026). Lenny and her boyfriend Evan, paranormal investigators documenting their findings on a YouTube channel, are lured to Claire’s hometown by her audacious claim of alien landings on her family’s farm. What begins as a potential hoax designed to revive a struggling family business quickly spirals into genuine terror when inexplicable and frightening events begin to unfold. June’s novel cleverly blurs the lines between fabricated scares and genuine otherworldly threats, exploring themes of belief, deception, and the unexpected manifestations of fear. The narrative promises a thrilling ride, questioning the nature of reality when the line between myth and the terrifying unknown begins to dissolve.
Magic with a Twist: Enchanting Narratives and Unique Powers
This segment of the summer’s YA speculative fiction lineup showcases a fascinating array of magical systems and protagonists who wield extraordinary abilities, often in the face of personal struggle and complex emotional landscapes.
The Electric Life of Lavender Lewis by Kara Storti
Kara Storti’s The Electric Life of Lavender Lewis (Union Square & Co.; May 5, 2026) offers a deeply personal and imaginative exploration of epilepsy and its intersection with the supernatural. Lavender has long managed her epilepsy, experiencing its full spectrum of symptoms. However, following her mother’s death, her seizures take on a new dimension. She begins to see Eli, a boy who also has epilepsy, leading her to question whether these are hallucinations or something more profound. The potential for life-altering surgery to manage her condition presents Lavender with a agonizing choice: undergo the procedure and risk losing not only her sense of self but also her connection to Eli, or continue to live with the unpredictable nature of her seizures. Storti’s novel promises a poignant narrative about courage, vulnerability, and the extraordinary connections that can emerge from shared human experiences.
Folklore and Mythology: Ancient Tales Reimagined
The rich tapestry of global folklore and mythology serves as a fertile ground for these upcoming YA fantasy novels, offering readers fresh perspectives on timeless stories and introducing them to captivating new mythologies.
The Hanging Bones by Elle Tesch
Elle Tesch’s The Hanging Bones (Feiwel & Friends; May 12, 2026) plunges readers into a world steeped in Germanic folklore, where legend and mortal ambition collide. The Breimar Stag, a creature of immense power, appears only during the rare Scavenge Moon. Its capture grants the victor the ability to wish for any death, while its escape dooms one of its hunters. Katrín, driven by a fierce desire for justice, aims to use this power to end the life of her abusive employer, a baron who has preyed upon her cousin Alma. Her hunt is fraught with unexpected violence and a grim surplus of corpses, suggesting a perilous and morally ambiguous quest. The novel’s focus on German folklore is a notable addition to the YA fantasy landscape, and the introduction of Katrín, who is asexual and aromantic, promises a refreshing exploration of identity and desire within a high-stakes narrative.
The Lustrous Dark by Loretta Chefchaouni
Inspired by the classic "Snow White" fairy tale and the Moroccan folktale "The Jealous Mother," Loretta Chefchaouni’s The Lustrous Dark (Peachtree Teen; May 19, 2026) offers a compelling reimagining. Shay, an apprentice midwife in the bustling city of Nezjar, grapples with the legacy of her mother’s addiction to the drug Snow, a substance that not only led to her death but also, Shay believed, passed forbidden magic to her. The reunion with her mother, however, proves tragic. Abandoned and far from home, Shay seeks refuge in Ard Al-Ghul, joining activists dedicated to restoring women’s magic to its rightful place. Chefchaouni’s narrative weaves together themes of addiction, inherited power, betrayal, and the fight for agency, drawing on rich cultural traditions to create a potent and resonant story.
Anthologies: Curated Collections of Diverse Voices
This season’s anthologies offer readers a curated experience, bringing together multiple authors and stories under thematic umbrellas, often with a focus on representation and exploring specific subgenres.
Everything Under the Moon: Fairy Tales in a Queerer Light edited by Michael Earp
Michael Earp’s Everything Under the Moon: Fairy Tales in a Queerer Light (Affirm Kids; May 12, 2026) presents a vibrant collection of twelve classic fairy tales reimagined through a queer lens. This anthology celebrates queer joy and self-acceptance, weaving together a diverse range of speculative elements and YA themes. The collection’s timely release comes amidst ongoing national debates and book bans targeting LGBTQ+ narratives, highlighting the critical importance of such inclusive storytelling. The roster of contributing authors, including Amie Kaufman, Meagan Spooner, Will Kostakis, and Abdi Nazemian, alongside interior and cover art by Kit Fox, promises a rich and visually engaging experience. The anthology serves as a powerful testament to the enduring relevance and joy found in queer representation within beloved narrative structures.
These Kindred Hearts: A YA Romantasy Anthology edited by Shari B. Pennant
Shari B. Pennant’s These Kindred Hearts: A YA Romantasy Anthology (Sweet July Books; June 30, 2026) directly addresses the need for greater diversity within the popular romantasy genre. This collection aims to center BIPOC characters with intersectional identities, including those exploring class and queerness, offering fresh YA perspectives on fantasy and romance. Featuring seventeen stories from authors such as Alexene Farol Follmuth, Kwame Mbalia, and Zoraida Córdova, the anthology promises a diverse exploration of fantasy subgenres. The collection strives to fill a gap in the market, where the romantasy genre has historically been dominated by white, cis, and heterosexual narratives. By highlighting varied experiences, These Kindred Hearts seeks to expand the definition of who gets to be a romantic and fantastical hero.
Past Is Present: Narratives Intertwined with History
These novels delve into the echoes of the past, exploring how historical settings, events, and unresolved mysteries shape the present and influence the lives of young protagonists.
We Could Be Anyone by Anna-Marie McLemore
Anna-Marie McLemore’s We Could Be Anyone (Feiwel & Friends; May 26, 2026) transports readers to the glitz and shadows of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Mexican siblings Lola and Lisandro navigate this era through elaborate cons, with Lola posing as a ghost and Lisandro as a spiritualist. Their latest target is the wealthy industrialist Bixby Fairfax and his actress wife, Blythe Belle. As their elaborate grift unfolds at Fairfax’s extravagant estate, Lisandro finds himself falling for Fairfax’s son, while Lola develops feelings for a staff member. Simultaneously, the unresolved mystery surrounding Fairfax’s deceased daughter casts a dark shadow, revealing a truth that someone is desperate to keep buried. McLemore’s signature lyrical prose and exploration of identity and desire are expected to imbue this historical setting with a potent blend of romance, mystery, and social commentary.
Where You’ll Find Us by Jen St. Jude
Jen St. Jude’s Where You’ll Find Us (Bloomsbury YA; June 2, 2026) offers a poignant and timely exploration of identity and belonging through a fantastical lens. Calla faces a series of personal crises: rejection by her parents, financial struggles, and a hesitant confession of her trans identity to her girlfriend, Ramona, who expresses reservations about dating a trans person. Their shared journey leads them to Amaranth, a magical house existing outside of time, serving as a sanctuary for queer youth from across history. However, when their refuge is threatened, the teens confront the terrifying possibility of returning to a world that may not accept them. The novel promises a powerful narrative about finding community, self-acceptance, and the enduring strength of queer history in the face of adversity.
The Game of Oaths by S. C. Bandreddi
Set in Paris in 1896, S. C. Bandreddi’s The Game of Oaths (Candlewick; June 2, 2026) is a high-stakes fantasy rooted in revenge and survival. Falan, a trapeze artist from India, joins a deadly competition known as the Game of Oaths to avenge her sister Lavanya’s death. Each year, twelve teenagers enter magical contracts with the enigmatic Enchanteur Jean-Pierre, competing for the amusement of the wealthy elite. Only one survives, while the others face gruesome fates. Falan, armed with newfound allies, must confront Jean-Pierre’s insidious influence and his racist agenda, all while fighting for her own life. The novel promises a thrilling narrative that blends historical intrigue with dangerous magic, exploring themes of justice, prejudice, and the courage to defy oppressive systems.
Not All Those Who Wander Are Lost: Journeys of Self-Discovery and Adventure
These novels follow protagonists on quests, both literal and metaphorical, exploring themes of destiny, courage, and the search for one’s place in the world.
The Last Best Quest Ever by F.T. Lukens
F.T. Lukens’ The Last Best Quest Ever (Margaret K. McElderry Books; May 26, 2026) presents a heartwarming and cozy fantasy narrative. Ellinore has earned a reputation for her unparalleled success in quests, a feat achieved not through brute force but through clever negotiation and a touch of dragon companionship. As she approaches her seventeenth birthday, marking her retirement from adventuring, she must undertake one final quest: to find the Elder Beast and save her brother from a dire curse. She is joined by a diverse group, including her brother, a spirited noblewoman, a budding bard, and Princet Aven, her rival and secret crush. Lukens’ work is anticipated to deliver a charming and uplifting story about friendship, bravery, and the pursuit of happiness.
Their Will Undone by R.J. Valldeperas
R.J. Valldeperas’ Their Will Undone (HarperCollins; June 2, 2026) weaves a tale of sacrifice, burgeoning magic, and political intrigue. Nina volunteers as tribute to save her ailing younger sister, expecting to be trained as a servant. Instead, she is chosen as the new bride of the Emperor of Amaru. Her escort, Lieutenant Kasik, finds their journey fraught with danger, and as Nina’s hidden magic surfaces, sinister motives behind the emperor’s interest come to light. Nina and Kasik, despite their initial animosity, must rely on each other for survival. The novel promises an engaging narrative that explores themes of duty, hidden power, and the complexities of alliances formed under duress.
A Great and Powerful Tyranny by Victoria Carbol
Victoria Carbol’s A Great and Powerful Tyranny (Page Street YA; June 23, 2026) offers a queer reimagining of The Wizard of Oz. Thia is unexpectedly transported from her oppressive life in Kansas to a strange new world. After inadvertently killing a witch, she embarks on a journey with three companions to find the Mage King, the only one who can send her home. Along the way, Thia uncovers her late mother’s rebellious past and finds herself drawn to the girl without a heart. This portal fantasy promises a fresh and inclusive take on a beloved classic, exploring themes of self-discovery, found family, and the courage to forge one’s own path.
Cursed Ever After by Andy C. Naranjo
Andy C. Naranjo’s Cursed Ever After (Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR); June 30, 2026) centers on Risa, a young woman whose birth on a "Bad Day" has brought persistent misfortune to her and her hometown. On her seventeenth birthday, a witch named Brunhilda tasks Risa with escorting Prince Javi, the least significant heir, to his betrothed. Their journey is plagued by escalating mishaps and "Bad Things," testing Risa’s resilience. Amidst the chaos, Risa finds herself developing feelings for the prince, despite his somewhat roguish nature. The novel promises a humorous and adventurous tale of destiny, unexpected romance, and the challenges of breaking a curse.
The River She Became by Emily Varga
Emily Varga’s The River She Became (Wednesday Books; June 30, 2026) blends ancient artifacts, forbidden magic, and political tension. By day, Yaseema is an Imperial scholar of ancient artifacts; by night, she uses magic to reclaim relics from her conquered people. Her quest leads her to the Fae land across the river, where a dangerous artifact awaits. She finds herself in a race against Captain Kiyan, who also seeks the artifact for his own purposes. The two form a precarious alliance, raising questions of trust and betrayal. Hailed as a blend of The Cruel Prince and The Mummy, this novel promises a thrilling adventure with high stakes and complex character dynamics.
Genre Blends: Where Worlds Collide
This collection of novels showcases innovative storytelling by seamlessly merging distinct genres, creating unique narrative experiences that defy easy categorization.
Between Sun and Shadow by Laura Genn
Laura Genn’s Between Sun and Shadow (Peachtree Teen; May 5, 2026) offers a compelling reimagining of "Beauty and the Beast," set in a post-apocalyptic world divided by environmental catastrophe. Adria hails from the Shadowlands, where humans have evolved into supernatural beings after an asteroid impact. Kori, from the Daylands, belongs to a society that fled underground and preserves its history through microchip implants. When Kori becomes Adria’s prisoner, their forced proximity leads them to uncover a conspiracy that threatens to ignite war or unite their fractured peoples. The novel promises a dynamic narrative exploring themes of prejudice, survival, and the potential for connection across seemingly insurmountable divides.
You Pierce My Soul by Jessica Mary Best
In the faux Regency utopia of New Ionia, where advanced surveillance technology dictates every aspect of life, Zada is destined to meet her soulmate through an algorithm called Heartsong. However, when her fated match proves uninspiring, Zada finds herself unable to stop thinking about her ex-best friend, Daphne. Together, Zada and Daphne delve into the history of the pervasive surveillance technology that governs their lives, seeking to forge their own paths and redefine connection. Jessica Mary Best’s You Pierce My Soul (Quirk Books; May 5, 2026) offers a speculative commentary on societal control, the nature of love, and the rebellion of individuality against manufactured destiny.
Goldenborn by Ama Ofosua Lieb
Ama Ofosua Lieb’s Goldenborn (Scholastic Press; June 2, 2026) presents a near-future urban fantasy inspired by Ghanaian folklore. Akoma, a magic investigator for the San Francisco Police Department, is drawn into a series of ritualistic murders in AfricaTown, each involving a body surrounded by molten gold and ash. Her father’s magical coma adds a personal urgency to her investigation. The trickster god Anansi offers Akoma a deal: he will heal her father and stop the killer in exchange for her tapping into her ancestral magic. The novel promises a thrilling blend of crime procedural, urban fantasy, and cultural mythology, exploring themes of family, responsibility, and the power of heritage.
Novels-in-Verse: Poetic Storytelling in Prose
This selection of novels-in-verse utilizes the unique rhythm and emotional resonance of poetry to tell compelling stories, offering a distinct literary experience.
Under a Carnivore Sky by Brianna Jett
Brianna Jett’s Under a Carnivore Sky (Page Street YA; May 12, 2026) is a novel in verse set in the swamp-adjacent town of Saltview, terrorized by a monstrous entity. For generations, the town’s adults are cursed by this creature, succumbing to it one by one. Lili, a solitary figure, teams up with Caleb, a boy on the cusp of adulthood and the curse’s inevitable grip. He desires escape, while she seeks vengeance. Their alliance offers a glimmer of hope that they might finally vanquish the monster that has plagued their community for so long. The novel promises a lyrical and suspenseful exploration of courage, isolation, and the fight against overwhelming odds.
Doe by Rebecca Barrow
Rebecca Barrow’s Doe (Nancy Paulsen Books; June 23, 2026) explores the darker aspects of teenage insecurity and desperation through a novel in verse. Maris, finding her life bleak and empty, clings to her role as cheerleading captain as her sole source of solace. When new student Genevieve emerges as a rival, Maris resorts to extreme measures, including making a pact with an ancient creature that appears in her dreams as a decaying deer. The narrative delves into themes of ambition, the pressure to succeed, and the dangerous bargains one might make when pushed to their limits, all rendered with the evocative power of poetry.
