May is a fun month for new releases as the publishing world gears up for summer. But what do you do when your holds lists are increasing and patrons are still coming to the desk to ask about the buzziest books? Offer readalikes, of course! Here are three new releases your patrons are hearing about, and three alternatives you can suggest to them while they wait.
We want to hear from you! As we move through 2026, we want to make sure Book Riot remains your go-to destination for all things bookish. Whether you’re here for the curated recommendations, latest industry news, or deep dives into reading culture, your feedback informs our media kit and how we represent this community. It will also shape our content and make Book Riot a place you want to be. To show our appreciation for your time, everyone who completes the survey will be entered for a chance to win a $50 USD ThriftBooks Gift Card. Complete the survey by May 31st here!
If your patron is looking for…
Japanese Gothic by Kylie Lee Baker
Lee Turner has fled to his father’s new home in Japan after killing his college roommate. But something is horribly wrong with the house, and Lee sees a vision of a woman with a sword in the yard. Sen is an exiled samurai in 1877, hiding from the soldiers who will slaughter her family, when she sees a vision of a young man outside her window. This is a horror novel about a monster hiding beneath a house, and a doorway between worlds that spans centuries.
You can suggest…
Nothing But Blackened Teeth by Cassandra Khaw
An abandoned Japanese mansion, nearly 1000 years old, makes the perfect venue for a group of friends celebrating a wedding. But the night quickly spirals into a nightmare as friendships are tested, and the spirit of a centuries-old bride awakens, looking for company.
Check Your Shelf
Sign up to receive Check Your Shelf, the Librarian’s One-Stop Shop For News, Book Lists, And More.
If your patron is looking for…
The Things We Never Say by Elizabeth Strout
Artie Dam lives an ordinary life teaching high school history and spending time with his wife and neighbors. But then his ordinary life is upended when Artie discovers a secret and is forced to re-examine the relationships with the people he thought he knew best.
You can suggest…
Redhead By the Side of the Road by Anne Tyler
Micah Mortimer has a routine and predictable life as a self-employed tech expert and building supervisor. However, his quiet life is shattered when his friend tells him she’s facing eviction, and a teenage boy shows up at his door claiming to be his son.
If your patron is looking for…
John of John by Douglas Stuart
John-Calum (“Cal”) Macleod has reluctantly returned to his old life on the small Scottish island of Harris, living with his father and his maternal grandmother. Cal is a closeted gay man navigating the strict Protestant morals of the town and the expectations of his family, but his relationships become even more tangled as an unexpected revelation upends everything. Oprah made this her latest book club pick, so prepare for especially long holds lists on this book.
You can suggest…
Family Meal by Bryan Washington
Cam’s life is falling apart after losing the love of his life, so he heads back to his hometown of Houston and finds himself interacting with his estranged best friend, TJ. But TJ isn’t sure what he thinks of this changed Cam, or what this means for their previous friendship.
This content contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
English (US) · 