Your TBR is about to get longer.

In this episode of Book Lounge, Joe is joined by Rachel to break down the most exciting book releases coming in May 2026 by sharing what they’re adding to their to-be-read piles. From buzzy debuts and fan-favorite authors to under-the-radar titles you’ll want to grab early, they’re sorting through the chaos of new releases so you don’t have to.

Expect strong opinions, a few surprises, and plenty of “place hold now” energy as they build their May reading lists.

Whether you’re planning your next great read or just love staying ahead of the book buzz, this episode is your go-to guide for what’s hitting shelves this May.

Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!

Book recommendations:

Rachel’s Titles:

Our Perfect Storm - Carley Fortune

A Parade of Horribles – Matt Dinniman

The Final Target – Nora Roberts

Caller Unknown – Gillian McAllister

The Shippers - Katherine Center

Good Joy, Bad Joy – Mikki Brammer

The Last Page – Katie Holt

The Midnight Train – Matt Haig

Joe’s Titles:

Homebound – Portia Elan

Bromantasy – Maire Roche

Opting Out – Maia Kobabe, Lucky Srikumar

Until Death – Mary Berman

Murder Most Delicious - Danielle Postel-Vinay

Landing in Place – Sherine Hamdy, art by Myra El Mir

Gay Mormon Dad – Chad Anderson

Body Count – Codie Crowley

Not Your Final Girl – Mikayla Randolph

Femme Feral – Sam Beckbessinger

Time stamps:

00:00:00 Title
00:00:23 Intro
00:00:48 A warm welcome to Rachel!
00:01:23 Breaking out of a bit of a slump
00:06:10 Our May 2026 Book Picks!
01:05:06 Outro

Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today’s episode!

Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!

We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!

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