Joyce Carol Oates, JCO Prize Winners and FinalistRelease New Books in 2026
Congratulations to Joyce Carol Oates Prize finalists and winners (and JCO herself) on their new, highly-anticipated books. NewLit is proud to support and celebrate the creativity and accomplishments of these authors.
Joyce Carol Oates Double Trouble (February 3, 2026)
Two complete crime novels and two short stories of psychological suspense centered on twin identities, betrayal, and murder by a female and a male serial killer, originally published under JCO’s pen name, Rosamond Smith.
Lauren Groff Brawler (February 24, 2026): 2022 Winner
A fierce collection of nine short stories that explore the complex, often volatile interplay between love, fear, compassion, and violence in the lives of people across different ages, places, and relationships.
Willy Vlautin The Left and the Lucky (due out April 14, 2026): 2025 Winner
A compassionate, character‑driven novel about a devoted house painter who forms an unlikely bond with a vulnerable young boy next door, showing how small acts of kindness and unexpected friendships can offer hope amid hardship.
Karan Mahajan The Complex (due out March 10, 2026): 2018 Finalist
A new novel from the author of The Association of Small Bombs, The Complex follows the intertwined lives, ambitions, and betrayals of the Chopras, a prominent Delhi family grappling with personal loyalties and political upheaval across generations.