We Voted! Woman’s World Editors’ Picks for the 2026 Goodreads Choice Awards, From Jodi Picoult to Ann Patchett
From a 9/11 family drama to a Yale demon hunt, our editors have a favorite in all 15 categories
Key Takeaways
- Goodreads Choice Awards voters pick one book in each of 15 categories.
- Our editors backed ‘Hollow Bones’, ‘Bad Words’, ‘Dead Beat’ and ‘Whistler', among others.
- Winners are announced December3 after a final voting round November 24–29.
Book lovers, it’s time to make your voices heard! Goodreads just revealed the nominees for its 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards, and here at Woman’s World, we’re pretty excited about the incredible lineup. With page-turners from Ann Patchett, Jodi Picoult and Riley Sager, there’s no shortage of fantastic reads to choose from!
Every year, the popular book platform rounds up its most-loved new releases across 15 categories and lets readers decide which titles deserve the top spot. Voting happens in two rounds, so there’s still time to weigh in if you haven’t cast your vote yet!
The opening round runs from November 10 through November 22, followed by the final round from November 24 through November 29. Then, on December 3, we’ll find out which books take home the honors. We couldn’t wait to dive in, so we cast our votes as soon as the nominees were announced. Keep reading to see which books earned our votes in each category!
Fiction: ‘Hollow Bones’ by Jodi Picoult
Bestselling author Jodi Picoult’s newest novel is a follow-up to her 2004 hit My Sister’s Keeper. Molly Fitzgerald was just two months old when her mother died in the devastating 9/11 attacks. As a result, Molly dedicated her life to becoming prepared for any emergency and even got a job at the Rhode Island Department for Emergency Preparedness.
She’s happy, but when she and her husband Jesse receive unexpected news, their entire world turns upside down. Now Molly must figure out who she really is and what she really wants, before it’s too late.
What WW editors are saying: “I love all of Jodi Picoult’s work, and this book was no exception,” raves Carissa Mosness, Woman’s World associate digital editor. “Filled with complex family dynamics, a dual-timeline plot and a main character you can’t help but root for, this novel is one for the record books.”
What Goodreads users are saying: “Hollow Bones is a moving story about love, loss, courage and resilience. It takes you on an emotional journey with Molly and leaves you thinking about the choices people make and the reasons behind them. It is a story you really need to read to fully understand its impact, and I really enjoyed it.”
Historical fiction: ‘The Calamity Club’ by Kathryn Stockett
In 2009, Kathryn Stockett captivated readers with The Help, and now, 17 years later, she’s back with her highly anticipated second novel. Set in Depression-era Mississippi in 1933, the story follows Birdie, an unmarried woman struggling financially who travels to Oxford to ask her sister, Frances, and her wealthy husband for a loan.
But while visiting, Birdie finds herself volunteering at a local orphanage, where she meets 11-year-old Meg. The two form an instant bond, making it all the more heartbreaking when Meg is sent away just days later. Then Meg’s birth mother, Charlie, unexpectedly appears on Birdie’s doorstep, and the two women hatch an unusual—and unlawful—plan. Their goal? Raise enough money to help Birdie’s struggling family while giving Charlie a chance to bring her daughter home. The result is a moving story of unlikely friendship, fierce determination and the extraordinary lengths women will go to for the people they love.
What WW editors are saying: “Having grown up in the South, I found this book equal parts familiar, hopeful and heart-wrenching. The writing is beautiful, and the richly drawn women at the heart of the story make you feel immediately connected to their struggles, triumphs and joys,” says Carey Ostergard, Woman’s World Executive Editor. “At nearly 600 pages, it’s certainly a commitment, but every page is worth it. The novel is steeped not only in history, but in the kind of friendship, loyalty and resilience that only women can truly understand.”
What Goodreads users are saying: “I don’t have the words or ability to describe how much I enjoyed this book. It is funny, it is sad, it is interesting, it is intense. It’s one of the longest books I’ve read, but it held my attention the whole time.”
Mystery/Thriller: ‘The Unknown’ by Riley Sager
Fans of locked-room thrillers will love Riley Sager’s newest novel. A hundred years ago, on a remote Vermont island, five women disappeared without a trace. All that was left was their clothes, hung in a tree. No one knows what really happened, and no one is ready to find out the truth.
Decades later, actress Marin Keane is chosen to star in a grand new film centered around the disappearances. She thinks it’s a dream role, but what she doesn’t realize is that before filming can actually start, she and her castmates will have to live on the same island where the disappearances took place. Soon after their arrival cast members go missing in the same way that the women did all those years ago. Desperate to figure out what’s going on, Marin turns to a diary written by one of the women who lived on the island all those years, but as she reads, she learns that nothing is as it seems.
What WW editors are saying: “This novel was scary and spooky and had me rapidly turning the pages trying to figure out what was going on,” raves Maggie Cady, Woman’s World Features Editor. “And when I finally learned what was happening, all I wanted to do was go back and reread the entire thing to see what Easter eggs I missed. The twist was that good.”
What Goodreads users are saying: “For me, this is easily one of Riley Sager’s best books, and probably lands somewhere in my personal top three from him. If you’re looking for something creepy, atmospheric and mysterious add this one to your TBR immediately.”
Romance: ‘Bad Words’ by Ríoghnach Robinson
This romance novel was named a Good Morning America book club pick and a Barnes & Noble book club pick. Parker Navarro’s debut novel was supposed to make him a literary icon, but after a brutal review from Selina Chan, one of the industry’s most respected book critics, the book tanks.
Four years later, Parker is back with a new book, and Selina is back with another scathing review. The only difference this time is that Parker refuses to stand back and take the heat from her. As a result the two are caught in a wild, no-holds-barred online feud that captivates book lovers everywhere. Fans of enemies-to-lovers and books about books will love this one.
What WW editors are saying: “I read more than 100 romance novels a year and this one feels so dazzlingly fresh it makes me excited to think of all the books it will inspire in the future,” says Lisa Maxbauer, Woman’s World Senior Editor. “Every line from this author is beautifully crafted. And the back-and-forth between the two brilliant, headstrong main characters—a writer and a literary critic—creates great tension in this enemies-to-lovers tale. Their slow-burn romance builds until one memorable white-hot moment of undeniable chemistry that feels totally earned and perfect for the plot.”
What Goodreads users are saying: “Bad Words is everything I want in a novel. It’s well written, perfectly paced, brimming with incredible character work and completely addictive. But what really pushed it over the edge for me is how topical it feels. I absolutely loved what it had to say about criticism, the publishing industry and the ways seemingly small opinions can spiral into something much bigger, especially on the internet.”
Romantasy: ‘A Court of Splintered Harmony’ by Sarah J. Maas
Five years ago, Sarah J. Maas published A Court of Silver Flames, the fifth book in her bestselling A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) series, and now she’s back with the next installment. It’s been two years since the Hybern war, but Feyre, Rhysand, Nesta, Cassian, Azriel, Mor, Elain and Amren are still dealing with the aftermath. Elsewhere, Koschei the Deathless is stirring, and no one in Prythian—not even the fearless Inner Circle—knows how to stop him. Daring, dangerous, spicy and seductive, this novel has it all.
What WW editors are saying: “As a loyal ACOTAR superfan since the beginning—I’m talking years before it was a global phenomenon—I couldn’t wait for this new chapter, and it is a RIDE,” laughs Ostergard. “I love how it challenges what you think you know about the ‘perfect’ characters and the relationships you’ve come to love. Seeing familiar events and people through new perspectives makes you reconsider everything, while misunderstandings, unexpected revelations and twists keep you turning pages. And that cliffhanger…January can’t come soon enough.”
What Goodreads users are saying: “Oh, this is a splintered harmony indeed. The Inner Circle is in a chaotic mess. Painfully so. Everyone is at each other’s throats. Everyone has secrets. Every relationship, every friendship, every bond between sisters and brothers, has cracks in it. The once seemingly perfect balance of power within the Inner Circle is constantly being challenged in this book. It’s a chaotic, rage inducing, ridiculously entertaining five star experience.”
Fantasy: ‘Dead Beat’ by Leigh Bardugo
Mystery, fantasy and dark academia abound in the final installment of Leigh Bardugo’s bestselling Ninth House trilogy. Alex Stern has gone to the underworld and back—but now there are entities haunting New Haven. While she struggles to make sense of her future at Yale, she and her crew of allies hunt down dark forces. Together, they dive deep into secret societies, then Alex enlists the help of a vampire, who might change everything. What follows is a magical story centered around bravery, hope and trust.
What WW editors are saying: “Leigh Bardugo is the queen of moody, atmospheric prose,” says Melissa D’Agnese, Woman’s World senior editor. “I’ve loved her writing since Shadow and Bone and Six of Crows—she just knows how to build a world filled with compelling characters. And her Ninth House series blends dark academia with crime and fantasy elements so flawlessly. It’s dark and gritty yet gorgeous. Plus, the whole series, including Dead Beat, unfolds against the alluring Ivy League backdrop of Yale. For me, stories layered with elite campus lore add to the overall intrigue.”
What Goodreads users are saying: “After loving both Ninth House and Hell Bent, my expectations for Dead Beat were honestly out of this world, and yet somehow Leigh Bardugo still managed to leave me absolutely starstruck. This finale gave me everything I had been hoping for since book one and answered questions I didn’t even know I had, and now I honestly don’t quite know what to do with myself.”
Science fiction: ‘We Burned So Bright’ by TJ Klune
From the bestselling author of The House in the Cerulean Sea comes another moving tale filled with love and loss. Husbands Don and Rodney have lived a good life, but they’ve always felt like they needed more time. So when they learn that a black hole is coming for Earth and will destroy everything in a month, they decide to go on a cross-country road trip from Maine to Washington State to try and tie up some loose strings. Along the way, they encounter strangers, weddings, novices and more, all of which make them fall even more in love with each other and with the world they live in.
What WW editors are saying: “I love TJ Klune so much and was so excited to finally get my hands on a copy of his newest novel,” says Mosness. “It made me laugh, it made me cry. But most of all, it made me realize that even in the darkest moments of our lives, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel, we just have to open our eyes and see it.”
What Goodreads users are saying: “Did I finish this book in less than 4 hours ? Yes I did because when I started, I simply could not stop. Then, I spent the entirety of the final 10 percent sniffling and crying. I think anyone can resonate with this book; gay, straight, single, married, with children or without and everything in between. TJ Klune said that he wrote this book for him and he feels like many readers probably won’t like it. I think TJ really underestimates how much his readers love his quirky brain.”
Horror: ‘Sometimes I Scare Myself’ by Jeneva Rose
Jeneva Rose’s first horror book is made up of three short stories, each more terrifying than the last. In the first short story, a séance goes wrong and the medium dies, causing the spirits they were communing with to escape. In the second story, a family moves into a haunted house with creepy neighbors who might be trying to kill them. In the third story, a group of friends steal something from a store that has a sign that says “All items cursed. Curse lifted at time of sale.” Soon after they learn that there is more truth to that sign than they originally thought. Scary, spine-tingling and seriously spooky, horror readers will love this book.
What WW editors are saying: “I was looking for a good fall read, so I picked this one up, and I’m glad to say it did not disappoint,” says Cady. “Filled with complex characters, horrifying moments and cliffhanger after cliffhanger, this might be Jeneva Rose’s best book yet.”
What Goodreads users are saying: “Sometimes I Scare Myself by Jeneva Rose is one of those special short-story collections that, once you’re finished, leave you without words as you turn that final page. I was completely and utterly blown away by Rose’s first-ever horror book, and let me tell you, she brought the terror and more.”
Debut: ‘Good People’ by Patmeena Sabit
Patmeena Sabit’s debut novel is filled with everything mystery readers love: a confusing main character, a strange family and a twist that no one will see coming. On the outside, the Sharaf family seems perfect: they successfully immigrated to the country and worked their way up the corporate ladder to become one of the richest people in town. They also have a daughter named Zorah, who can do no wrong in her father’s eyes.
But when a shocking tragedy happens, the Sharaf family is thrust into the spotlight, and soon secrets come out that could change everything. Told through newspaper clippings, police reports and eyewitness accounts, this book truly is one wild ride.
What WW editors are saying: “When I was reading this book I literally could not figure out who did it and I loved it,” says Mosness. “Plus, the twist at the end?! I won’t spoil it, but just know you will be shocked! I know I was.”
What Goodreads users are saying: “This will be in the top 10 books of 2026 for me. The ending is ambiguous but that is not what matters. The reactions, the strife. The crack between the two cultures became insurmountable. What a debut. A stunner! This would be the ultimate book club read.”
Audiobook: ‘Whistler’ by Ann Patchett
Narrated by Ann Patchett herself, this novel begins after Daphne Fuller runs into her ex-stepfather Eddie Triplett at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. He was only married to Daphne’s mother for a year, but even so, Daphne never stopped caring for him. As the two begin to catch up, they realize just how much they missed one another. But when a new tragedy threatens to tear Daphne and Eddie apart again, they decide to try and do everything they can to keep it from happening. It’s a heartwarming story that explores what it really means to be a family.
What WW editors are saying: “Whistler the novel, is in some ways, like Ann Patchett herself—reserved, elegant and thought provoking,” says Maxbauer. “So it’s a delight to listen to the author narrate this book in her own voice, even singing nostalgic advertising jingles. The story starts like a simple, serendipitous reunion between two long-lost friends. But as they reconnect, we begin to understand the true making of a life: who shapes us, who we stay loyal to and what childhood dreams are worth resurrecting. This quiet love story to friendship stuck with me, forcing me to ponder what it means to be understood by another human. It’s what this talented author always does: She peels back the truth of life in an unassuming way.”
What Goodreads users are saying: “This is a deeply compassionate novel about relationships in all their beautiful, imperfect forms. It reminds us that every family carries hidden histories, misunderstood choices and love that often survives despite them. I also loved that this book celebrates books themselves, sprinkling literary recommendations throughout its pages. Any novel that sends me searching for more books to read earns extra affection.”
Young adult fantasy and science fiction: ‘Mortal Things’ by Marie Lu
Marie Lu’s newest novel follows Rose Linh Fairchild, the Harbinger for Raven, the god of death. Rose, naturally, hates the job but knows that it’s the only thing keeping her best friend alive. One day, after a murder rocks the world of the gods, Rose is thrust into the immortal realm and is even named Raven’s heir, which might just be the key to freeing her best friend. The only issue is Étienne Beauchard, a fellow Harbinger with secrets that could destroy the world. A genre-bending tale filled with romance, magic and fantasy.
What WW editors are saying: “Marie Lu’s Legend series remains one of my all-time favorites, so when I heard she was coming out with another young adult enemies-to-lovers tale, I knew I needed to pick it up,” says Mosness. “Filled with Lu’s thrilling prose and shocking twists, this novel was amazing. It also reminded me of the Marvel show Moon Knight, which I loved.”
What Goodreads users are saying: “Marie Lu truly never lets me down. Mortal Things was such a good (and surprising!) read, and once again I am struggling to put all my thoughts into words. I really enjoyed the romance in this, and that is largely due to how much I like Étienne as a love interest. He has the best sly fox vibes, while being protective of Rose. His dynamic with Rose was so good! I miss reading about him already.”
Young adult fiction: ‘Beth is Dead’ by Katie Bernet
Little Women fans will love Katie Bernet’s retelling. After Beth March is murdered at a New Year’s Eve party, all of her sisters—Meg, Jo and Amy—become suspects. As the investigation unfolds, the three remaining sisters, who used to be close, begin to fight, argue and turn on each other. Elsewhere, the police are working overtime to figure out who could have killed sweet Beth, and no one will be prepared for what they find.
What WW editors are saying: “Greta Gerwig’s 2019 Little Women is my favorite movie, so I was extra excited for this book,” raves Mosness. “It has all the signature charm and literary love as Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel, but it also has some fun and fresh takes that I think readers of all ages will love.”
What Goodreads users are saying: “A heartbreakingly gripping, murder mystery reimagining of Little Women. It delivers a searing and emotional exploration of grief, ambition, sisterhood and adolescence (in the age of social media) that had me completely hooked.”
Nonfiction: ‘The Best Dog in the World’ edited by Alice Hoffman
In this collection of short stories, 14 beloved authors, including Jodi Picoult, Emily Henry, Elizabeth Strout and more, celebrate the life-changing power of canine companions. Every nonfiction essay captures the joyous wonder that is pets—from welcoming a new puppy into your life to rescuing a dog and even saying goodbye to a beloved four-legged friend. It’s truly a remarkable work of art. This short story collection is edited by Practical Magic author Alice Hoffman and is a delightful read for dog lovers everywhere.
What WW editors are saying: “I love keeping books of essays on my nightstand—they’re perfect for dipping in and out of before bed,” says D’Agnese. “Earlier this year, I heard Alice Hoffman was putting together a collection of essays celebrating four-legged friends and as a lifelong dog lover, it quickly made its way to my nightstand. With essays from some of my very favorite writers including Emily Henry and Elizabeth Strout, these stories steal your heart, break your heart then, ultimately, heal your heart. This is a must-read for any and all dog lovers!”
What Goodreads users are saying: “If you’re a dog person, you’ll want this collection of stories that will feel like a warm hug. Each is a celebration of the unique love and loyalty between humans and their canine companions.”
Memoir: ‘In the Shadow of Eight: Surviving the Reality of My Childhood’ by Collin Gosselin
If you grew up watching Jon & Kate Plus 8 on TLC in the early 2000s, then you need to pick up this memoir. In it, Collin Gosselin, one of the sextuplets, reveals what really went on in the house when the cameras weren’t rolling. From being isolated from his siblings to being sent to a mental institution by his mother without his father’s knowledge or permission, Collin leaves nothing out. It’s honest, raw, real and filled with moments that will make you question everything you thought you knew about the Gosselin family.
What WW editors are saying: “I listened to this on audio and was blown away by just how much time and effort the former reality TV star put into it,” explains Mosness. “Collin’s storytelling was top-tier, and he even called out certain scenes in the show where you can see he’s being treated differently than the other kids. The story also served as a reminder to never lose hope and to never give up, which is something I feel is extra important to remember nowadays.”
What Goodreads users are saying: “I listened to In the Shadow of Eight on audio, and I am SO glad I did. Hearing Collin Gosselin tell his story in his own voice made it that much more emotional. There were moments when I just wanted to reach through my headphones and give that little boy the biggest hug. I can’t imagine how difficult it was for him to share these memories. This is one of those books that will stay with me for a long time. I truly hope Collin finds all the peace, happiness and love he deserves.”
History/biography: ‘We the Women: The Hidden Heroes Who Shaped America’ by Norah O’Donnell
CBS Mornings and 60 Minutes co-host Norah O’Donnell takes readers back in time in this biography. She reveals how women have impacted the course of American history over the past 250 years and even shares some of her research and photos with readers. It’s patriotic, empowering and perfect for people who believe women should be in the room where the decisions are being made.
What WW editors are saying: “As a D.C. resident, I love stories that take me back in time to when our country’s political system was being founded,” says Mosness, “and Norah O’Donnell’s book did all that and more. I highly recommend this book for people who love history and learning new things.”
What Goodreads users are saying: “This was an excellent read for America 250 and just the inspiration I needed to continue hoping that change is possible. Well-researched, well-written, all-around compelling collection of the wisdom and courage and drive of America’s women.”
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