Best Steampunk Fiction Books of 2026

The Olympian Affair is the latest in Jim Butcher's bestselling series of noble families, swordplay, and airships, The Cinder Spires. The book follows the fate of the Cinder Spires as they stand on the brink of war, with Spire Albion facing overwhelming might from Spire Aurora's Armada and their new secret weapon. The Spirearch, Lord Albion, dispatches privateer Captain Francis Madison Grimm and his crew to secure alliances at a trading summit at Spire Olympia. The book is filled with daring, skill, and showmanship, making it a thrilling read for fans of men's adventure fiction books.

The first volume of "Stars of Chaos: Sha Po Lang" is a steampunk danmei/Boys' Love novel from China that has inspired multimedia adaptations. The story follows Chang Geng, a young man raised on the impoverished northern frontier who discovers that his life is a lie when raiders from the north attack his small village. As enemies of the empire circle ever closer, Chang Geng must travel to the heart of the capital to meet his destiny. This novel, penned by Priest, is set in a world like historical China and built around the desire between two men. The Seven Seas English-language edition includes exclusive, all-new covers and new interior illustrations.

Arm of the Sphinx by Josiah Bancroft is a captivating addition to The Books of Babel series. The Tower of Babel is proving to be a difficult place to re-enter as Senlin and his crew are forced into a life of piracy, struggling to survive aboard their stolen airship while searching for Senlin's lost wife. In a world where debts aren't always what they seem, Senlin must choose between his friends, freedom, and his wife. Bancroft's imaginative world-building and action-packed storytelling make this a must-read for fans of fantasy action and adventure. Arm of the Sphinx is a timeless classic that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.

Master of Djinn is a thrilling debut novel by P. Djèlí Clark set in an alternate Cairo, where magical and mundane realms intertwine. When a secret brotherhood is murdered, Agent Fatma el-Sha’arawi of the Ministry of Alchemy, Enchantments and Supernatural Entities is called to investigate. The murderer claims to be al-Jahiz, a famous man who opened up the veil between the magical and mundane realms. This dangerous imposter threatens to disrupt the peace of Cairo and beyond. With a mix of action, adventure, and fantasy, Clark delivers a unique and captivating story that's sure to please readers.

Nevernight by Jay Kristoff is an enthralling start to an epic fantasy series. The story follows Mia Corvere, a young girl seeking revenge against those who destroyed her family. She joins a school of assassins, facing treachery and danger at every turn. Kristoff creates a rich and complex world, filled with corruption and violence. The characters are well-developed, and the plot is full of twists and turns that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The book is a perfect blend of ancient and magical elements, and the footnotes add a touch of sarcasm and humor. Overall, this is a thrilling and satisfying read that fantasy fans won't want to miss.

The second volume of "Stars of Chaos: Sha Po Lang" is a steampunk danmei/Boys' Love novel set in a world like historical China, where the discovery of violet gold has propelled the empire of Great Liang into an age of prosperity. Chang Geng, a young man from the impoverished northern border, follows his godfather to the heart of the imperial capital, where a greater fate lies in store for him. The novel, penned by the bestselling and award-winning Chinese author priest, features a unique storyline built around the desire between two men. The Seven Seas English-language edition includes exclusive, all-new covers and new interior illustrations.

Jules Verne's classic adventure novel "Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea" takes readers on an unforgettable journey under the sea with Captain Nemo and his crew aboard the Nautilus. The trio encounters numerous dangers and wonders, including the lost city of Atlantis and the South Pole. This stunning Hardcover Classics edition features the original illustrations and is a must-read for fans of science fiction and adventure. The Penguin Classics series provides authoritative translations and introductions, making this edition a valuable addition to any bookshelf.

Perdido Street Station, written by China Miéville, is an extraordinary masterpiece that combines science and magic, creating a unique and fascinating world. The story is set in the city of New Crobuzon, where humans, mutants, and arcane races coexist, ruled by a brutal Parliament. When a stranger arrives with an impossible demand, something unthinkable is released, and the city is gripped by an alien terror. The fate of millions lies with a clutch of renegades, and a reckoning is due at the city's heart. With its Dickensian scope and modern pace, Perdido Street Station is a love song for cities that packs a world into its strange, sprawling, steam-punky city.

Swordheart by T. Kingfisher is an epic fantasy book about Halla, a housekeeper who inherits her great-uncle's estate and becomes the wielder of an enchanted sword that imprisons Sarkis, an immortal swordsman. As they journey together, they face numerous challenges, including in-laws, bandits, and even the sword itself. T. Kingfisher's writing is skilled and breezy, making the story a delightful read. The story's unique blend of silliness and heart, combined with its epic fantasy elements, make Swordheart a must-read for fans of the genre.

The L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future Volume 39 is a collection of short stories in the science fiction and fantasy genres, selected by renowned authors and illustrators. The book features 12 captivating tales from new voices in the genre, along with three from masters of the craft. The stories take readers on a journey to new worlds and ideas, with surprises at every turn. The book also includes art and writing tips from experts in the field. Overall, this anthology is a must-read for fans of speculative fiction and a great way to discover new talents in the genre.