Best Recent Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror Books 2026

Looking for the best recent science fiction, fantasy and horror books? Our review roundup highlights two standout novels that are reshaping genre fiction. From Victor LaValle's powerful response to HP Lovecraft to Becky Chambers' cosy sci-fi love story, these books are must-reads for fans of speculative fiction.

The Ballad of Black Tom by Victor LaValle

Victor LaValle's The Ballad of Black Tom is a short novel that won almost every genre award following its 2016 US publication. As a Black writer, LaValle had a conflicted relationship with the works of HP Lovecraft. As a child, he loved the tales of cosmic horror but grew to recognise the racism and other prejudices of the author. Unable to “throw the man’s stories away” because of how formative they were on his own imagination, he decided to write his own response to one of the most obviously racist, The Horror at Red Hook, recasting it through the perspective of a musician and hustler from 1920s Harlem later known as Black Tom. It’s a powerful tale of horror – both everyday and the occult – told with sheer brilliance.

As You Wake, Break the Shell by Becky Chambers

In this cosy science fiction love story set on a distant planet, life is a constant struggle for the human colonists. As the book opens, botanist Signy is yet to meet the love of her life, Cora, a rorqual pilot. Rorquals are gigantic interplanetary creatures, trained by human pilots whose implants allow them to communicate with the beasts as they transport supplies. Chapter 1 is followed by chapter 764, set more than a decade later, when the two women are blissfully married. The non-linear narrative may reflect what we’re told is the rorqual view of time, but it also removes much suspense. Despite this, Chambers' signature warmth and character-driven storytelling shine through, making it a delightful read for fans of hopeful science fiction.

Comparison of the Two Novels

Key Takeaways

• The Ballad of Black Tom is a powerful retelling of Lovecraftian horror from a Black perspective.
• As You Wake, Break the Shell is a cosy sci-fi romance with a non-linear narrative.
• Both books challenge traditional genre tropes and offer fresh, diverse voices.
• These novels are essential reading for fans of science fiction, fantasy and horror.

FAQ

What is The Ballad of Black Tom about?

The Ballad of Black Tom is a horror novel by Victor LaValle that reimagines HP Lovecraft's The Horror at Red Hook from the perspective of a Black musician in 1920s Harlem. It explores themes of racism and cosmic horror.

Is As You Wake, Break the Shell a romance?

Yes, As You Wake, Break the Shell is a cosy science fiction love story that follows botanist Signy and rorqual pilot Cora. It features a non-linear narrative and is set on a distant planet.

Why is The Ballad of Black Tom considered important?

The Ballad of Black Tom is important because it directly addresses the racism in HP Lovecraft's work while paying homage to his cosmic horror. It won numerous awards and is praised for its powerful storytelling.