Last updated: January 2026 - I’ve now read 1 out of 30 books in my 2026 reading challenge
This year, one of my 2026 goals is setting myself a brand-new reading challenge - to read at least 30 books in 2026. As someone who loves getting lost in a good story, I want to be more intentional about making time to read, whether that’s a few pages before bed or a quiet moment with a book and a cup of tea.
Reading has become my little escape from busy family life and work, and having a clear goal feels like the perfect motivation to keep turning the pages. From gripping psychological thrillers to comforting romance and classic crime fiction, my 2026 reading list is a real mix and I can’t wait to see how many I manage to tick off by the end of the year.
The books on my 2026 reading list
There’s no particular order to this list just a collection of books and authors I’m genuinely excited to dive into over the year.
Lindsey Kelk - I Heart series
I’m planning a full nostalgic binge of Lindsey Kelk's much-loved I Heart series, including I Heart London, I Heart New York, I Heart Paris, I Heart Hollywood, I Heart Vegas and I Heart Christmas. These books are meant to be the ultimate feel-good reads. They promise fun, fast-paced and perfect for when I’m craving something light and escapist with plenty of humour and heart.
Freida McFadden - psychological thrillers
If there’s one author dominating my reading list this year, it’s Freida McFadden. I’m planning to read The Housemaid, The Housemaid’s Secret, The Housemaid Is Watching, The Housemaid’s Wedding, along with The Inmate, Ward D, The Locked Door, The Coworker, The Teacher, The Tenant, Never Lie and The Intruder. I love a twisty psychological thriller that keeps me guessing, and McFadden’s books are known for their short chapters, shocking twists and “just one more chapter” energy.
Colleen Hoover - emotional contemporary reads
I’ll also be dipping back into Colleen Hoover’s emotional storytelling with Regretting You, Without Merit, Never Never and November 9. Her books always seem to spark conversation and emotion, and I’m expecting a mix of romance, heartbreak and thought-provoking themes from these reads.
Paige Toon - heartfelt romance
For beautifully written love stories, I’ve added Someone I Used to Know, If You Could Go Anywhere and The Minute I Saw You by Paige Toon. Her novels are perfect when I want something romantic but grounded, with strong characters and emotional depth.
Jojo Moyes - uplifting fiction
Someone Else’s Shoes by Jojo Moyes is also on my list. I love her ability to blend warmth, humour and real-life issues, making her books ideal for relaxed but meaningful reading.
Agatha Christie - classic crime
To balance out the modern reads, I've added some classic crime with Poirot: The Murder on the Links and Poirot Investigates by Agatha Christie. There’s something timeless about her storytelling, and I love dipping into a traditional whodunnit now and again.
Jill Mansell - feel-good romance
Finally, I’ve added Maybe This Time, This Could Change Everything and Meet Me at Beachcomber Bay by Jill Mansell. These feel-good novels are perfect for easy reading days when I want something comforting, uplifting and full of charm.
My Challenge
Reading challenge progress - 1 / 30 books
Read - The Housemaid by Freida McFadden
Currently reading - The Housemaid’s Secret by Freida McFadden
Still to read - the rest of my 2026 list
Setting myself a reading challenge for 2026 feels like a small but positive way to prioritise a little time for myself. I’m under no pressure to read every single book on this list, but having a goal of 30 books this year gives me motivation and something to work towards. I’ll be updating this post as I go and sharing mini reviews along the way, so if you’re looking for your next read, hopefully this list gives you plenty of inspiration too.
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