Upcoming Brandon Sanderson Books
Discover upcoming brandon sanderson books with release dates, series insights, and preorder info.
Discover upcoming brandon sanderson books with release dates, series insights, and preorder info.
For fans of epic fantasy, the phrase 'There's always another secret' is a promise. Brandon Sanderson, a master of intricate magic systems and sprawling universes, is renowned for his incredible productivity and an ambitious project roadmap that keeps readers eagerly anticipating what's next. Keeping track of all the upcoming Brandon Sanderson books can feel like charting the constellations of the Cosmere itself, a rewarding but often complex task.
This guide is designed to be your definitive, chronological map for Sanderson's future releases in 2026 and beyond. We cut through the speculation to deliver a clear, well-sourced look at what's confirmed, from major trade publications to exciting crowdfunded special editions and long-term projects on the horizon. For each entry, you will find essential details:
Many authors, inspired by Sanderson's direct-to-reader success, are exploring similar avenues for their own work. For these creators, understanding the financial side is crucial, and properly budgeting the self-publishing cost is a vital part of the journey from manuscript to marketplace.
For Sanderson fans, however, the primary goal is simple: don't miss a single story. Prepare to mark your calendars and update your wishlists, because your next favorite book is on this list.
Kicking off the list of upcoming Brandon Sanderson books is a brand new, non-Cosmere urban fantasy trilogy titled Songs of the Dead. Coauthored with Peter Orullian, this series promises a distinct reading experience set in a magical, modern-day London. The story follows a musician who discovers layered "stratums" of the city’s past, each with its own magical society, and confronts a world where music and light are the sources of power. This fresh concept makes it an exciting entry point for new readers and a unique offering for established fans.
The book's official page on the Simon & Schuster website serves as the primary hub for preordering and release information. As a major publisher, Simon & Schuster provides a reliable, direct-from-source platform to secure your copy. The site is straightforward, presenting all critical details clearly without requiring you to sift through blog posts or forum threads for updates.
The most significant advantage of this release is its certainty. Unlike some of Sanderson's other projects that have flexible timelines, Songs of the Dead has a firm publication date. This makes planning your reading schedule much easier.
The Simon & Schuster product page offers direct preorder links for a variety of major retailers, including Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Books-A-Million, and Bookshop.org. This allows you to choose your preferred vendor while using the publisher’s site as a verified starting point. For audiobook listeners, links to Audible are also provided, reinforcing the book's positioning for a strong audio release.
Reader Tip: While the publisher's page is the best source for official links, consider preordering from your local independent bookstore via Bookshop.org. This supports small businesses while ensuring you get your copy on release day.
Songs of the Dead distinguishes itself from the Cosmere-centric projects that dominate many fans' watchlists. Its contemporary urban fantasy setting and musical magic system offer a different flavor of Sanderson’s imagination, blended with the voice of coauthor Peter Orullian.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Firm, confirmed release date (June 16, 2026) | Not part of the interconnected Cosmere universe |
| Unique musical magic system set in modern London | Coauthored style may differ from Sanderson's solo work |
| Wide retail availability via a major publisher | Release is still some time away |
| Strong focus on the audiobook format at launch |
This book represents a great opportunity for readers who enjoy urban fantasy like The Dresden Files or the works of Neil Gaiman to experience a Sanderson story. For dedicated fans, it’s a chance to see his worldbuilding skills applied to a completely new, grounded setting.
Official Source: Simon & Schuster - Songs of the Dead Product Page
Next on the list of upcoming Brandon Sanderson books is Blightfall, the first book in the Riftwake trilogy. Coauthored with Janci Patterson, this series expands the Skyward universe (the Cytoverse) with a new adventure. The story follows Arturo, a member of Skyward Flight, as he leads a mission to a hostile world dominated by invasive forests and fraught with political danger. It’s positioned as a YA/NA-leaning space fantasy, making it a great entry for readers who have finished the core Skyward series and are eager for more.
The book's official page on the Penguin Random House website is the central source for official information and preorder links. As one of the world's largest publishers, Penguin Random House (PRH) provides a dependable platform with direct retail connections. The page lays out the book's summary, release date, and purchasing options clearly, ensuring fans can secure a copy from their preferred vendor with confidence.
Unlike some of Sanderson's self-published projects, Blightfall comes with the certainty of a traditional publishing schedule. Its firm release date and wide distribution make it an easy addition to your reading list. The first edition also promises special features for collectors.
The PRH product page provides direct links to preorder from major retailers such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Books-A-Million. This setup acts as a verified hub, removing the guesswork from finding legitimate purchase links. This broad retail access also extends to libraries, which can easily order copies through PRH's distribution network.
Reader Tip: The special first edition features like sprayed edges are often limited to the initial print run. Preordering is the best way to guarantee you receive a copy with these collectible elements.
Blightfall offers a fresh starting point within the established and beloved Cytoverse, appealing to both existing fans and newcomers. Its focus on a new cast and setting allows it to stand on its own while enriching the greater universe, much like the best role-playing games tabletop campaigns can expand on a core rulebook.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Accessible jumping-on point in the Cytoverse | Coauthored style may differ from Sanderson's solo epics |
| Collectible first edition features drive preorder value | YA shelving may limit discovery for some adult readers |
| Wide retail and library availability via PRH | Not part of the core Cosmere storyline |
| Confirmed release date (September 1, 2026) |
This release is perfect for fans of the Skyward series who are looking for more stories in that universe. Its YA/NA classification and action-packed premise also make it an excellent choice for younger readers or anyone seeking a fast-paced sci-fi adventure without the dense lore of the Cosmere.
Official Source: Penguin Random House - Blightfall Product Page
Next on the list of upcoming Brandon Sanderson books is a brand new, non-Cosmere urban fantasy trilogy titled Songs of the Dead. Coauthored with Peter Orullian, this series promises a distinct reading experience set in a magical, modern-day London. The story follows a musician who discovers layered "stratums" of the city’s past, each with its own magical society, and confronts a world where music and light are the sources of power. This fresh concept makes it an exciting entry point for new readers and a unique offering for established fans.
The book's official page on the Simon & Schuster website serves as the primary hub for preordering and release information. As a major publisher, Simon & Schuster provides a reliable, direct-from-source platform to secure your copy. The site is straightforward, presenting all critical details clearly without requiring you to sift through blog posts or forum threads for updates.
The most significant advantage of this release is its certainty. Unlike some of Sanderson's other projects that have flexible timelines, Songs of the Dead has a firm publication date. This makes planning your reading schedule much easier.
The Simon & Schuster product page offers direct preorder links for a variety of major retailers, including Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Books-A-Million, and Bookshop.org. This allows you to choose your preferred vendor while using the publisher’s site as a verified starting point. For audiobook listeners, links to Audible are also provided, reinforcing the book's positioning for a strong audio release.
Reader Tip: While the publisher's page is the best source for official links, consider preordering from your local independent bookstore via Bookshop.org. This supports small businesses while ensuring you get your copy on release day.
Songs of the Dead distinguishes itself from the Cosmere-centric projects that dominate many fans' watchlists. Its contemporary urban fantasy setting and musical magic system offer a different flavor of Sanderson’s imagination, blended with the voice of coauthor Peter Orullian.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Firm, confirmed release date (June 16, 2026) | Not part of the interconnected Cosmere universe |
| Unique musical magic system set in modern London | Coauthored style may differ from Sanderson's solo work |
| Wide retail availability via a major publisher | Release is still some time away |
| Strong focus on the audiobook format at launch |
This book represents a great opportunity for readers who enjoy urban fantasy like The Dresden Files or the works of Neil Gaiman to experience a Sanderson story. For dedicated fans, it’s a chance to see his worldbuilding skills applied to a completely new, grounded setting.
Official Source: Simon & Schuster - Songs of the Dead Product Page
Continuing the new Cytoverse saga started with Blightfall, the second book in the Riftwake trilogy is tentatively scheduled for 2027. This upcoming Brandon Sanderson book, with a working title of Songrise, is primarily penned by Janci Patterson, with Sanderson providing oversight, editing, and revisions. The story will pick up where Blightfall leaves off, deepening the lore of the Skyward-adjacent universe and continuing the journey for its new cast of characters.
The best place to track progress on this title is Brandon Sanderson's official blog, specifically his annual "State of the Sanderson" posts. These lengthy, detailed updates serve as a direct-from-the-author roadmap for his writing schedule, providing fans with projected timelines, progress percentages, and candid thoughts on each project. This is where the Summer 2027 window and working title were first noted.
Unlike books with fixed publisher dates, Songrise's timeline is based on Sanderson’s personal production schedule, making it subject to change. As the release approaches, details will solidify and preorder links will appear on his website and through major retailers. For now, the "State of the Sanderson" is the primary source.
As of now, no preorder links are available. The most effective way to stay informed is to monitor the official website and Sanderson’s social media channels, where he will announce when the book is officially listed for sale.
Reader Tip: Keep an eye on the progress bars included in the "State of the Sanderson" posts. These provide a real-time glimpse into the writing and revision status, giving you the clearest indication of whether the book is on track for its projected release.
Songrise represents the continued expansion of the Cytoverse beyond the original Skyward series, building on the foundation established in Blightfall. It solidifies the Riftwake trilogy as a key pillar of this universe, aimed at both the existing young adult audience and readers who enjoy Sanderson's adult-level worldbuilding.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Continues a brand-new trilogy in the popular Cytoverse | Release window is a projection and could be delayed |
| Builds on the established audience from Skyward and Blightfall | Final title, cover, and other key details are not yet available |
| Coauthored by Janci Patterson, who is familiar with the universe | Fewer concrete details compared to traditionally published books |
| Clear target for 2027 on Sanderson's schedule |
For fans invested in the Cytoverse, this release is a must-watch. It promises to carry the momentum of the new trilogy forward, offering another dose of fast-paced sci-fi action and character-driven storytelling from a creative team that has already proven its ability to deliver in this world.
Official Source: Brandon Sanderson's Blog - State of the Sanderson 2025
Holding a prominent spot on the long-term list of upcoming Brandon Sanderson books is the highly anticipated first novel in Mistborn Era 3. Tentatively titled Ghostbloods, this trilogy will jump forward in Scadrial’s timeline, taking place roughly fifty to seventy years after the events of The Lost Metal. It is positioned as a 1980s-era thriller featuring early computers, with characters from the Ghostbloods organization taking center stage. Sanderson has stated he plans to write the entire trilogy back-to-back before publishing the first book to ensure narrative cohesion.
The best source for tracking the progress of this monumental project is Brandon Sanderson’s own website, specifically his annual "State of the Sanderson" blog posts. This is where he shares his writing schedule, projected timelines, and personal updates directly with fans. Unlike a publisher’s product page, his blog offers a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process and the factors influencing the book’s development.
While a firm release date is still years away, Sanderson's transparency provides a clear, albeit flexible, timeline. The "State of the Sanderson" posts are the definitive source for these projections until an official publisher announcement is made.
Given the distance to publication, preorders are not yet available. Following the "State of the Sanderson" blog is the most effective way to know when preorders will go live. This project's large scale also makes it a prime candidate for a potential crowdfunding campaign, similar to the Secret Projects. If so, creators can learn how to successfully launch and fund a book on Kickstarter to understand the mechanics behind such a massive undertaking.
Reader Tip: Keep an eye on Sanderson's weekly update videos on YouTube. He often provides smaller, more frequent progress updates on his major projects there, giving you a real-time percentage of how far along the manuscript is.
Mistborn Era 3 represents a major milestone for the Cosmere. As a franchise centerpiece, it is expected to connect various storylines and characters from across the universe, making it essential reading for dedicated fans. The jump to a more modern, tech-focused setting will also showcase a new dimension of Scadrial's magic and society.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Franchise centerpiece with major Cosmere implications | Very distant release date (December 2028 or later) |
| Long runway for marketing and building anticipation | Details like final title and cover are not yet public |
| High potential for special editions and merchandise | Schedule is subject to change based on other projects |
| Sanderson will write the full trilogy before release |
This upcoming trilogy is not just another series; it's the next foundational pillar of the Mistborn saga and the wider Cosmere. For readers invested in the overarching narrative, its development is one of the most exciting things to follow in the world of epic fantasy.
Official Source: Brandon Sanderson's Blog - State of the Sanderson
Following hot on the heels of the Era 3 kickoff, the untitled second book in the Ghostbloods trilogy is already on the long-term calendar. Brandon Sanderson's annual "State of the Sanderson" blog post serves as the definitive source for his multi-year production schedule, and this entry solidifies his commitment to a rapid-fire release cadence for this new Mistborn saga. This book will continue the story of Scadrial's modernization, exploring how Allomancy and Feruchemy function in a world of burgeoning technology and societal change.
The State of the Sanderson blog is not a retail site but a direct communication channel from the author to his readers. It provides the earliest and most authoritative information on long-range plans, making it an essential bookmark for anyone tracking upcoming Brandon Sanderson books. While you can't order from the blog itself, it gives you the roadmap needed to anticipate preorders and special editions, often years in advance. This level of transparency is rare in publishing and gives fans a clear picture of the Cosmere's future.
The key takeaway for this release is its planned annual cycle. Sanderson aims to publish the Ghostbloods trilogy in three consecutive holiday seasons, creating a predictable and exciting event for fans each year. This makes long-term planning for reading groups and collectors much simpler.
Since this book is years away, there are no preorder links. The best action is to follow the State of the Sanderson blog, which is published every December on Brandon's birthday (December 19th). This is where any schedule adjustments or title reveals will be announced first.
Reader Tip: Set a calendar reminder for mid-December each year to check for the new "State of the Sanderson" post. This post is your best source for tracking not just Mistborn, but all of Sanderson's many projects.
The planned annual release for the Ghostbloods trilogy is a significant commitment that builds powerful momentum. This strategy ensures a strong follow-through from readers of the first book, keeping the story fresh in their minds and driving community discussion.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Predictable annual release cadence (December 2029) | Schedule is tentative and could be adjusted |
| High reader interest due to Mistborn's popularity | No official title, cover, or plot summary yet |
| Continues a major Cosmere storyline | Release is still many years away |
| Annual cycle is ideal for subscription boxes |
This entry in the Mistborn saga is designed for sustained engagement, keeping the fandom energized through a multi-year event. While we wait, the focus remains on the first book in the trilogy, but knowing the sequel is firmly on the schedule makes the investment in this new era even more rewarding.
Official Source: Brandon Sanderson's Blog - State of the Sanderson 2023
Rounding out the planned Mistborn Era 3 trilogy is its untitled conclusion, tentatively referred to as Ghostbloods 3. This book is set to cap the 1980s-inspired arc, bringing the three-book cycle to a close and paving the way for complete boxed sets. Its release is strategically planned for a holiday window, capitalizing on peak demand from collectors and gift-buyers looking for the full series. This far-future entry in the list of upcoming Brandon Sanderson books is one of the most anticipated finales for longtime fans.
The primary source for tracking this distant project is Sanderson’s own annual "State of the Sanderson" blog post on his official website. This yearly update provides the most direct and honest assessment of his writing schedule, progress, and projected timelines. Unlike a publisher’s product page, the blog offers a behind-the-scenes look at the author's priorities and any changes that might affect the release calendar, making it an essential resource for fans planning years ahead.
While the release is still many years away, Sanderson's long-term planning provides a solid window for fans to anticipate. Given its position as a trilogy-capper, this book's release strategy will likely involve significant coordination with retailers for bundled editions and special promotions.
There are no preorder links available this far in advance. Instead, the best way to prepare is by following the author's official blog. The "State of the Sanderson" posts are the definitive source for updates and will be the first place to announce when preorders eventually go live, likely a year or so before the planned release.
Reader Tip: Bookmark the "State of the Sanderson" blog category on Brandon's website. Checking it each December is the most reliable way to get an accurate, firsthand update on the timeline for Mistborn Era 3 and all other future projects.
Ghostbloods 3 represents the culmination of a major Mistborn arc, promising to deliver a satisfying conclusion while setting the stage for the Cosmere's final era. Its planned release cycle is designed for maximum market impact, targeting the holiday season and the high demand for complete series collections.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High demand potential for complete boxed sets | Farthest project on the official schedule |
| Targets the lucrative holiday gift-buying season | All details (title, cover, price) are TBD |
| Strong potential for retailer-exclusive editions | Timeline is subject to long-term schedule shifts |
| Concludes a full, three-book Mistborn arc |
This release is the long-term payoff for dedicated Mistborn readers. While it requires patience, its eventual arrival will be a major event in the Sanderson fan community, creating a perfect opportunity for new readers to dive into the entire Era 3 trilogy at once.
Official Source: Brandon Sanderson's Blog - State of the Sanderson
| Title | 🔄 Implementation complexity | ⚡ Resource requirements & timing | ⭐ Expected outcomes | 📊 Ideal use cases | 💡 Key advantages / Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Fires of December | Medium — dual-path launch (Dragonsteel crowdfund + wide trade) requiring cross-channel coordination | High — illustrated production, collector fulfillment and mass-market distribution; firm on‑sale Dec 8, 2026 | ⭐⭐⭐ High — strong Cosmere engagement, collectible and retail sales | Major Cosmere launch; holiday hardcover retail; collector market | Clear MSRP/date; wide publisher reach; monitor crowdfund vs retail cannibalization |
| Blightfall (Riftwake #1) | Medium — new trilogy launch, coauthored with special-edition treatments | Moderate — first-edition physical features + day‑and‑date formats; on‑sale Sep 1, 2026 | ⭐⭐ High — solid YA/NA crossover and preorder potential | YA/NA space-fantasy entry point; Skyward-adjacent readers; libraries | Accessible jumping-on point; PRH distribution simplifies orders; coauthor voice may vary |
| Songs of the Dead (The Strata Wars #1) | Medium — new urban/contemporary fantasy trilogy with multimedia/audiobook emphasis | Moderate — big‑5 distribution and audiobook investment; on‑sale Jun 16, 2026 | ⭐⭐ Medium-High — differentiates from other lines; strong audio appeal | Adult/urban fantasy readers; audiobook-first audiences; modern‑London hook | Unique musical/light magic concept; strong distribution; not Cosmere |
| Riftwake #2 (working title: Songrise) | Low–Medium — mid‑series continuation, primarily coauthor-written with Sanderson edits | Moderate/TBD — production details and title TBD; target Summer 2027 window | ⭐⭐ Moderate — sustains momentum and series retention | Series follow-up for Cytoverse fans; maintain trilogy engagement | Leverages existing Skyward/Blightfall audience; key details pending |
| Mistborn Era 3: Ghostbloods 1 | High — major Cosmere centerpiece; trilogy completed pre-publication per plan | Very high — long prelaunch marketing, premium editions, projected Dec 2028 | ⭐⭐⭐ Very high — franchise-driving, strong sell-through and backlist lift | Major franchise event; holiday collector market; cross‑promote Mistborn backlist | Long runway for marketing; high collector demand; many specifics still TBD |
| Mistborn Era 3: Ghostbloods 2 | High — annual-series continuation with coordinated seasonal releases | High — annual production cadence and seasonal promotional planning; target Dec 2029 | ⭐⭐ High — predictable follow-through and attach rates from Book 1 | Subscription boxes, seasonal promotions, collector continuity | Predictable cadence supports programs; title/pricing TBD |
| Mistborn Era 3: Ghostbloods 3 | High — trilogy finale with set/collector planning across years | Very high — final installment for three-year cycle; target Dec 2030 | ⭐⭐⭐ Peak — strong demand for complete-set collectors and holiday sales | Boxed sets, holiday gift bundles, full‑series collectors | Peak collector potential; longest lead time and highest schedule uncertainty |
The sheer volume of upcoming Brandon Sanderson books is a testament to his incredible productivity and the rich, interconnected worlds he has built. From the anticipated launch of new series like Blightfall and Songs of the Dead to the momentous return to Scadrial with Mistborn Era 3, the next few years promise a steady stream of epic fantasy. Keeping track of this ever-expanding Cosmere and the broader Sanderson universe requires more than just a calendar; it requires an understanding of how these stories are being delivered to us, the readers.
This article has charted the course for the next wave of releases, covering everything from tentative release windows for The Fires of December to the confirmed titles for the Ghostbloods trilogy. Each entry provides a specific roadmap, whether it's setting a reminder for a traditional bookstore release or preparing for a potential crowdfunding campaign. The key takeaway is that the journey from Sanderson's keyboard to your bookshelf is becoming more varied and direct.
Brandon Sanderson's record-setting "Year of Sanderson" Kickstarter campaigns didn't just fund four secret novels; they shifted the ground beneath the publishing industry. This direct-to-fan model gives creators immense control over their work and a direct connection with their audience. It allows for premium editions, exclusive merchandise, and a community-driven launch that traditional methods often can't match. Understanding the various avenues for a book to reach readers can shed light on Sanderson's successful approaches; you can learn more about the different types of publishing that authors utilize today.
This direct model, however, introduces massive logistical challenges. Managing tens of thousands of backers, collecting shipping information, and handling add-on orders is a monumental task. This is where a pledge manager becomes an author's most important post-campaign tool.
To put it simply, Kickstarter's pledge manager is like Amazon—a massive, one-size-fits-all marketplace. A dedicated pledge manager like PledgeBox, however, is like Shopify—a customizable and powerful storefront tailored specifically for your project.
As a fan, your engagement method might change depending on the project. For a major release like Mistborn Era 3: Ghostbloods 1, your path is clear: preorder through your favorite bookstore or online retailer. For other projects, especially those following the crowdfunding model, your role is more active. Here’s how you can prepare:
For authors and creators inspired by Sanderson’s success, managing this post-campaign phase is critical. A tool like PledgeBox simplifies this process significantly. It functions like a Shopify for your crowdfunding project, offering a clean interface for backers to complete their orders. A major advantage is the cost structure: PledgeBox is free to send the backer survey and only charges a 3% fee on any revenue from upsells. This allows creators to maximize their earnings from add-ons without any upfront financial risk, making it an efficient solution for complex fulfillment.
The world of Sanderson's fiction is constantly growing, and the methods for bringing it to us are too. By staying informed and understanding the tools involved, you can ensure you never miss a single journey, whether it's to Roshar, Scadrial, or a brand new world we have yet to discover. The adventure is just beginning.
Are you an author or creator inspired by Sanderson's crowdfunding success? PledgeBox provides the essential tools to manage your backers, sell add-ons, and handle fulfillment after your campaign ends. See how you can streamline your post-campaign process and boost your project's success at PledgeBox.
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