The Best Books of February 2026

Two unlikely allies, one house full of secrets — in a world teetering on the brink of a suspected apocalypse, a resident of a well-protected mansion is found dead. Thrills, humor and suspense unfold in this locked-room mystery.

Tom has dropped off his daughter at college, but his journey is far from over. He sets off on a road trip down memory lane — across America, visiting friends from the past while facing life’s twists and detours.

Brandon Sanderson delivers a new standalone story in the mystical Cosmere universe. Expanding on the novella Sixth of the Dusk, this tale weaves legends, lore and political intrigue to tell a story of hope and resistance through the eyes of two unlikely allies.

A double murder at a tranquil lake resort — now that’s a thrilling mystery. Suspenseful and twisty, everyone is a potential suspect here. If you love locked room mysteries with true crime vibes, then this one will grip you from the start.

Life’s got you busy? Delicious, time-saving meals are only a few pages away, from household staples to mouth-watering twists on weeknight classics.

How do you make your money milestones matter? Vivian Tu takes readers through her strategy for building wealth and securing a flourishing financial future.

Prepare to discover an enchanted library filled with magic as Prince Sloth and Lore Brimstone are sent on a dangerous adventure in this standalone fantasy romance from Kerri Maniscalco.

Film buffs, movie snobs, and cinema aficionados — this is your inside scoop on the iconic filmmakers whose big-screen visions reinvented Hollywood.

The author of the smart and funny Dungeon Crawler Carl series returns with another epic adventure. Space settlers fight to survive when planetary warfare becomes a game in this inventive sci-fi read.

Celebrating all the ways our feline companions make life better, this charming collection of stories, tips and stunning photography is a must-have for cat lovers.

Agnes has devoted her life to finding forever homes for stray cats, but to save her shelter from dark magic, she’ll have to team up with a cunning magician.

From the author of The People We Hate at the Wedding comes a novel filled with love, loss and laughter that we often experience on this roller coaster we call friendship.

After her abuse trial drew global attention, deepening public understanding of how sexual assault affects victims — Gisèle Pelicot shares a story of hope and resilience.

An ambitious twist on a classic werewolf legend, this blood-soaked tale of power, purpose and revenge weaves history with chilling mythology for a dark and haunting love story.

Navigate life’s hormonal transitions with a practical guide offering expert advice on everything from nutrition to boosting wellbeing for a healthier future.

The complex relationships between mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends in the American South are examined in this sharp and entertaining story from Tayari Jones.

Pollan brings fresh perspectives into the study of the one thing we will probably never fully grasp — consciousness. Offering illuminating insights in hopes of fostering greater awareness, this is a fascinating meditation on the mysterious world we live in.

Delving into the little-known details behind China’s Communist rise, this gripping, eye-opening exploration reveals the key steps that led to a world-changing victory.

From the author of Killing Moon and Blood Ties comes another gripping crime story. A serial killer, a suspended police officer and a self-proclaimed crime writer collide in a chilling exploration of the murderer’s mind.

Shelley Puhak examines the legend of the Blood Countess, also known as Elizabeth Bathory, a Hungarian countess who allegedly murdered hundreds of children in the late 16th century.

Bringing women to the forefront of America’s founding, Norah O’Donnell’s gripping storytelling shines a spotlight on scientists, artists and abolitionists long overlooked by history.

In the wake of an unthinkable tragedy, an immigrant family with a bright future is left reeling as their idea of the American dream is crushed. Riveting, timely and thought-provoking, Good People is a story of community, family and resilience.

Beaten down by life, Ari jumps at the chance to do something meaningful. From the author of Dear American Airlines comes a richly imaginative fable about saving the world.

J.R. Ward, whose name has long been synonymous with paranormal romance through her Black Dagger Brotherhood saga, raises the stakes with her romantasy debut. This series is just beginning, but you’ll be hooked from page one.

Encompassing the triumphs, struggles and challenges of American history from early colonialism to the present day, Jon Meacham offers a nuanced look at the country’s evolution and the ongoing pursuit of a more perfect union.

The author of The Bound and the Broken series returns with an epic fantasy of deadly secrets, magic and war. Dragons, danger and adventure await — buckle up.

The reality show that changed television is celebrating its landmark 50th season, and Jeff Probst shares his unfiltered thoughts and reflections in this stunning book, complete with never-before-seen photos and stories.

Opening up about the inspiration, challenges and triumphs that shaped his journey, Gavin Newsum reflects on the pivotal moments that launched his political career.

Nine stories, one commanding voice. Lauren Groff shares an assortment of short but exhilarating human stories about intention, transformation and what it really means to belong.