Reading recommendations - Fiction
Science fiction, mystery, adventure and more - find your next favourite read at the library.
Explore our section devoted to fiction. You'll find staff picks and recommended reading in a range of genres, award-winners, local book events and more.
Can't find what you're looking for? Request a custom reading list.
Looking for something more factual? Try our Non-fiction Reading Recommendations.
NoveList Plus
Find new authors & reading options using your favourite writer, book or genre as a starting point. Your next great read is just clicks away.
Science Fiction - New & Trending
Fresh titles from the past year and buzzy favourites trending on social media and bestseller charts - the most out-of-this-world reads.
Science Fiction - Essential Reading
Combining classics and more recent titles, an essential list of genre-defining and influential novels for every science fiction reader.
Science Fiction - Hidden Gems
Under the radar sci-fi novels that deserve wider attention, waiting to be discovered by curious readers with their heads in the stars.
NoveList Plus
Find new authors & reading options using your favourite writer, book or genre as a starting point. Your next great read is just clicks away.
Science Fiction - New & Trending
Fresh titles from the past year and buzzy favourites trending on social media and bestseller charts - the most out-of-this-world reads.
Science Fiction - Essential Reading
Combining classics and more recent titles, an essential list of genre-defining and influential novels for every science fiction reader.
Science Fiction - Hidden Gems
Under the radar sci-fi novels that deserve wider attention, waiting to be discovered by curious readers with their heads in the stars.
New fiction
New, on order, and recent fiction that library borrowers have given 5-star ratings.
New, just ordered and top-rated fiction titles in the catalogue
Return to Reading
Has it been a while since you spent time reading? Get back into it with our lists of the most readable and enjoyable books.
Genre reading guides
Whatever kind of fiction you're into find lists, new authors to try, and staff picks.
New Zealand fiction reading guide
Explore adult fiction by New Zealand writers. Stories in a range of genres revealing something of our national character.
Fiction reading guides
Fantasy fiction reading guide
Find Fantasy authors you might like to try and reading lists for a range of Fantasy sub-genres including Epic, Grimdark, and Romantasy.
Romance reading guide
Like your Romance fiction modern or historical, rural or fantastical, restrained or raunchy? Our guide can help you find 'The One'.
Horror fiction reading guide
Recommended reading lists for a range of horror fiction sub-genres, horror authors to try, and other horrific resources.
General fiction reading guide
Whether you prefer books that are lighthearted or serious, literary or more down to earth our guide can help you find your next read.
Science fiction reading guide
If you like stories set on alien worlds, inter-species politics, or space travel try our science fiction guide.
Mystery fiction reading guide
From historical whodunnits and cosy crime to psychological thrillers and Scandi noir - our guide will help you find your next mystery read.
Adventure fiction reading guide
Go on a mission full of suspense and action, loaded with obstacles and dangers - our guide will help you find your next adventure read.
Historical fiction reading guide
Recommended titles for readers who love royal intrigue, fans of sagas, or those gripped by the action in historical adventure.
Graphic novels and comics reading guide
LGBTQIA+ reading guide
Teen fiction reading guide
Award winners
For books that are a cut above - find shortlisted and award-winning titles of international and New Zealand literary prizes.
Award winners
2026 Pulitzer Prizes
Winners and finalists in the categories of biography, memoir or autobiography, drama, fiction, poetry, history and general non-fiction.
Women's Prize for Fiction
Honours and celebrates fiction written by women and published in the U.K. The 2026 shortlist has been announced.
Libro.fm NZ Audiobook of the Year Award 2026 Longlist
Audiobooks on the longlist are assessed on sales as well as narration, production and content by a panel of booksellers and influencers.
Request reading recommendations
Not sure what to try next? Try our reading guides, or tell us your preferences and we'll make a custom reading list just for you!
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More books, reading and literature
- New titles - Fiction
- Graphic novels and comics
- Printable author lists in a range of genres
- Tamariki - Kids
- Rangatahi - Teens
- Book clubs and reading groups
- Interviews and short biographies of authors, poets and journalists
- Best of the year
- Poetry
- Writing
- WORD Christchurch Festival and events
- Literary events
New For You
New For You - May 2026
New For You is a monthly selection of new books, topical titles, and hidden gems — chosen especially for you by our book buyers!