The Best New Science Fiction and Fantasy Books Out in October 2026

I’m an avid, longtime reader of science fiction and fantasy so I take selecting the best new SF/F books of the month seriously, and few things make me happier than sharing what’s in store. The days are getting cooler and darker, we’re pulling out our couch blankets, and nothing sounds better than escaping into the pages of one of the excellent new science fiction and fantasy books out in October 2026. This month offers something for every SF/F reader, from the highly anticipated sixth book in Sarah J. Maas’s ACOTAR series, to a new historical fantasy by Nghi Vo, to a space opera by the award-winning Yoon Ha Lee, and so much more. Get 15% off annual All Access memberships for a limited time in celebration of Book Riot’s 15th anniversary! Savings amount to more than 3 months of free unlimited access to our entire content archive, plus features like Collections and the New Release Index. Claim your savings and start leveling up your reading life. Life Out of Order by Audrey Niffenegger (October 6)For fans of The Time Traveler’s Wife, October brings an unexpected story set in that book’s world. This speculative novel following Alba, who’s witness to a dystopian future she can’t change ...