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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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