Happy Publication Day everyone!

 

Our first Publication Day of 2026 brings a whole new collection of exciting stories, from a wonderful collective of talented authors!

 

To introduce them, we are restarting a fun feature for the year – Ask Our Authors – where we send all our newly published writers the same simple question to see how different each answer is…

 

For our January authors, we asked them: What are your writing goals for 2026?

 

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Here are their answers…

 

 

My goal is to publish more books. I have several in the pipeline, which I hope to submit soon. I would like to become a well-known author.

 

Martin Gallagher, author of The Princess Ariana

 

 

 

I have already completed a short novel called Where the tall trees grow. It is set in nineteenth-century Traverse City, Michigan and describes the lives of a Native American seer, a young white girl, and the great white pines that used to dominate the landscape. The land is as much a character of the novel as the flesh-and-blood people: after the story is told, I present the history of local ecosystems in a dozen pages or so, beginning with the majestic pine forests before white settlement, proceeding to the ravaged landscape after logging, and ending with the partial redemption for that abuse through modern methods of land and water restoration. The book is illustrated with photographs taken in 1861 up to the present day.

 

Richard Fidler, author of Now Boarding: 21 Flights of Fancy

 

 

 

For 2026, Uma and Saskia's writing goals are to get the second book in the series of Lily's Pickles finished and edited! We have already begun putting it together so we're super excited to continue sharing Lily's adventures with the rest of the world and seeing what other pickles she gets into. This time, we follow Lily's journey as she goes on holiday, encountering some challenges abroad.
Uma is also continuing her writing through her daily journal, as well as continue writing during lessons at school in Year 5. At the moment we are reading Charlotte's Web and Kay's Anatomy.
Saskia continues to write to students, parents and teachers as part of her work as a PSHE teacher. Her book, This Period in My Life- a guide book for young people all about the menstrual cycle- gets enquiries weekly from schools to help them ensure that conversations around bodies are open, honest and informative.

Uma and Saskia Boujo, authors of Lily's Pickles at School

 

 

 

My writing goals for 2026 are focused on consistency, craft, and forward momentum. I want to maintain a regular writing practice that prioritizes depth and quality, with the aim of completing at least one substantial project from first draft through revision. This year, I’m especially interested in strengthening my narrative voice, sharpening character development, and becoming more confident with structure and pacing.
Alongside drafting, I plan to dedicate intentional time to revision and feedback—learning to view rewriting as a creative stage rather than a corrective one. I’d also like to experiment a bit more, whether that’s playing with form, perspective, or genre, to push myself beyond what feels comfortable.
Reading will be an essential part of this process. I’m aiming to read more widely and more analytically in 2026, with a focus on books that challenge my assumptions about storytelling and style. I want to actively study what works (and why), rather than reading only for escape.
From a publishing perspective, my goal is to better understand the landscape—researching submission opportunities, learning how to present my work professionally, and, when ready, taking steps toward sharing my writing with a wider audience. More broadly, 2026 is about building a sustainable, joyful relationship with writing and staying committed to the long game of becoming a better storyteller.

 

Dragana Samardzic, author of Love and Pain

 

 

 

I can assure the children who enjoy my book that Fred is already afoot in the forests of Northern Spain and his latest adventure, with the help of Georgia, of course, sees them tackle a problem with Iberian Lynx. The story is ready, the writing still to be completed.

 

Chippers, author of Fred the Werewolf

 

 

 

My goal this year is to dedicate more time to writing. I am hopeful to come up with more work about mental health and the struggles with it. Speaking from experience and the experience of others will help make these poems just as raw and authentic as the first ones.

 

Abijah Woods, author of Songs From A Broken Heart

 

 

 

My writing goals for 2026 are to publish my 1st book, Sundry Musings. Secondarily, I have 2 or 3 more books beyond that I would like to publish, especially if they would stop stealing them off my computer.

 

John Kirkman, author of Sundry Musings

 

 

 

As I get ready to avoid winter's blasts and head to Cuba for seven weeks, I always take a notebook and a few pens so that I can spend some time each day writing under the palapa in our garden. Writing with a pen and paper is not only nostalgic, it forces one to not worry about editing as one goes. I will not know what I shall write until I start. It will most likely be another murder mystery, my seventh. And it will be up to the story and its characters to tell me how things will unfold. It is always an engaging and delightful experience of discovery for me. I will also be fine-tuning a book, my sixth mystery and seventh novel, that will be coming out in May. And I shall be preparing the readings while away for the book launch that will take place here in Nova Scotia. These are more like recitals than readings, so a lot of preparation goes into these events. Several of the fans of one of my plays have suggested I turn that story into a novel. I will also contemplate that possibility while I am away.

 

Paul Rapsey, author of The Listing Lighthouse

 

 

 

Sequel to Toby the Autistic Teddy. I now want to address ADHD by introducing Tilly who has moved in next door to Toby. I’m hoping to finish this in time for publication Christmas's 2026

Anita Batten, author of Toby the Autistic Teddy Bear’s Christmas

 

 

 

Finding more time to write, and having a second book published.

 

Lysa Cloutier, author of Lachlan and the slime monster

 

 

 

Finalise a children's book about two cats

 

Adrian Little, author of The Memoirs of a Wayward Traveller

 

 

 

I have got so many fun plans/goals for 2026. On January 29, 2026, my first book “The Seven Suns” will be published so I plan to invest time in book promotion, hosting and/or attending virtual events, networking with book clubs and bookstores, book reading and hopefully signing sessions.
Also, in 2025, I completed the first draft of my second book “Into the Deep”. In 2026, my main goal is to find a publisher and sign a publishing contract to start the process of publishing my second book.
In the course of the year, I plan to improve my writing skills. The plan includes attending several critical writing classes, writing, and publishing articles on my blog.
I wish to end the year with the completion of the first draft of my third book, which so far is planned to be the sequel to “In the Deep” (my second book).

Brunhilda Enwe Eya, author of The Seven Suns

 

 

In 2026, my main writing goal is to continue building engaging, inclusive children’s stories that spark imagination, confidence, and a love of reading. A key focus will be expanding the world around Bennie the Bunny Ninja exploring opportunities for companion stories and further adventures, while staying true to the humour, warmth, and heart that younger readers connect with.
Alongside Bennie, I plan to continue developing my wider children’s catalogue, which includes titles such as The Chocolate Unicorn Factory, The Amazing Dyslexic Brain, The Igaleboo Trolls, Fairies Deal with Poo?, Princess Penelope, Luna the Cat, Herb the Hermit Crab, and a range of early-reader and seasonal stories. I enjoy creating both standalone books and characters that children can return to again and again.
Accessibility remains central to my writing. Many of my stories are inspired by real family experiences and are written with children who may struggle with reading, confidence, or traditional learning in mind. In 2026, I want to continue refining how I approach language, rhythm, and structure to ensure my books are welcoming to all readers.
Beyond writing itself, my goals also include continuing to grow as a reader, engaging more with schools and parents, and supporting book promotion where possible. I am still serving in the British Army and will be deployed overseas for parts of the year, so while I may not always be available in person, I am keen to support publishing and promotional activity remotely and to keep building meaningful connections with readers wherever I can.

 

Max Wilkinson, author of Bennie the Bunny Ninja

 

 

 

My writing goals for 2026? Pretty much the same as for 2025 - i.e., to go on writing for as long as I can, if only to prove that I am not yet ripe for the care home. So I look forward to seeing my next book (after this one) published, which is already completed and which I hope will come out in 2027, and will be working in the meantime on the sequel to "A Saint Emerging", which is well under way.
I would also like to learn how to publicise my work more effectively without getting obsessive about it.
I am hoping to move to Devon, where I already spend a good deal of time, where my three novellas (including the forthcoming "Peabody's Plunder Recovery Service") are set, some time this year.
Finally, as always, I do hope to sell a few copies. But for me, at the end of the day, the achievement is more important than any reward. Thank you, Pegasus, for anabling me to fulfil my ambitions.

 

D.M. Quillman, author of The Peabody's Plunder Recovery Service

 

 

 

To have fun! After the publication of my first book ‘A Soldier’s Story’ I put myself under some pressure to see if I could repeat the achievement of publication with a second book. It took away some of the enjoyment of just writing a great story. This year I am writing a biography for a family in Devon. Ever the truism that everyone has a great story to tell. Thereafter I have plans to plunge myself into the 1370s onwards and the Peasants Revolt centred around a colourful character of the time - a bishop no less. Back to writing for fun and just seeing where the journey takes me.

 

Mike Wood, author of A Silent Sorrow

 

 

 

I write all the time. I regularly send out newsletters using my website, and they can be about anything—except politics and dissension. They usually include watercolors I’ve done and there’s always some narrative going on, although it can be subtle. My present book is about my personal evolution with watercolors, using the some of the paintings of dogs I’ve done over the years. Depending upon its reception, I may extend the same painting/text format to come up with a book that includes some of my other animals—parrots, monkeys, sharks, owls, apes, bugs, and so on.
And then there’s the real writing—the thrillers, filled with international action and vivid characters. I’ve got a couple on the back burner that I’m ready to move to the front.

Peter Shahrokh, author of Teach Me the Love that Is Evergreen

 

 

 

My writing goals for 2026 are to have my next three books published. I’ve worked extremely hard on all four of my books, and knowing that one is already on the shelves is incredibly exciting.
I wanted my books to be truly unique, so I chose to write stories for children that encourage them to use their imaginations and believe in themselves. That’s why I invite children to illustrate my books—to reinforce the message of self-belief, creativity, and kindness. Each book is not just a story, but a reminder that their ideas matter and their voices are important.

 

Amy Selina, author of Sleep Thief

 

 

 

I am very excited for the forthcoming year. Shortly, my third book (already being proofread now, for publication!) will be released. This will be the first phase of my expansive universe, with more books (already in motion) to follow. I will soon embark on a scriptwriting course and explore avenues to bring my books into the realm of film and TV. My ambition is to see my books on the ‘big screen’.

 

Richard Wheeler, author of Orion's Prophecy- Bloodlines Part 2

 

 

 

I have already written a satirical piece about the current political situation in the USA. My writing goal for 2026 is to get it published, either in a magazine or online.

 

Noella Bickham, author of Now I Lay Me Down to Keep

 

 

 

The question of what my 2026 writing goals look like is, in many ways, inseparable from why I write at all. Writing has always—and will always—be a creative outlet for me: a way to process what’s unfolding in my life and to translate those experiences into something connective and human.
In 2025, I found a renewed rhythm in my writing, and in 2026 I intend to carry that momentum forward. Where Did the Moon Go? began as a simple response to my daughter’s question, but quickly revealed itself as something more—a message I didn’t yet know I needed to hear. At its heart, it is a reminder to love myself, even in moments of darkness.
The past year invited me to confront much of that darkness head-on, giving this story deeper resonance and meaning. As I move into 2026, my goal is to continue that journey of self-discovery and to keep finding new, creative ways to express it through storytelling. While this book follows Luna’s quest to understand where the moon goes, I imagine her journey continuing—asking equally tender and thought-provoking questions like Where do we go? and Where did I go?
These questions feel both childlike and profound, and they mirror the ongoing exploration at the heart of my writing practice: curiosity, reflection, and the courage to keep searching for meaning.

 

Ginny Louise, author of Where did the Moon Go?

 

 

 

Well, with 8 books officially completed and self-published, one with Pegasus Publishing, I will focus on producing book number 9, as well as continue to promote my finished books. I recently self-published my 3rd poetry book 'Ebononogy Book Three' exclusively on Amazon Kindle, but for this upcoming novel, without giving away too much, will either fall into the action-thriller, mystery-suspense, horror or comedy genre. Currently, I'm working on several essays and blogs for community building with other writers/authors. I will also focus on A.I. development to grow my podcast channels.

 

Juntu Ahjee, author of Two Peas in a Pod

 

 

 

I am so excited for my first children's book, "Stanley the Stinky Dragon", to be released this month! I have several more stories in the works (always keep a notepad with you for ideas!), so this year my writing goals are to take these stories from idea stage to written and read aloud to my focus group (aka my kids). It is so exciting to bring a new world to life and inspire the next generation of readers.

 

Bryan Siceloff, author of Stanley the Stinky Dragon

 

 

 

Beyond just writing, I aspire to be a patient listener. Absorbing the life experiences of others serves as the vital nourishment for my craft; it is the very engine and source of inspiration that sustains my journey as a writer.

 

Frank Guo, author of Affair and True Love

 

 

 

My writing goals for 2026 are to get my second book published and then concentrate on my third, which is all planned and ready in my head!
Hopefully I can sit by the sea, somewhere warm, with a nice glass of wine. Can think of nothing better!

 

Stella Ennis, author of The Life and Loves of Elsie Evans

 

 

 

I am working on two new novels. I am excited about both of these books.

 

Elizabeth Elliot, author of The Heart of Rahab

 

 

 

This year is about stabilising what already exists into a form that can endure. The Law of Continuity now functions as the structural spine of the work, and The Story of the Southern Cross is its narrative and ethical orientation.
The Southern Cross has never been a symbol of ascent or escape. It is a marker of position, endurance, and orientation in the dark. It does not move to meet us. We move in relation to it. That is the logic guiding the writing this year.
My primary goal for 2026 is to stabilise the Law of Continuity as a canonical framework: its axioms, collapse conditions, and invariants are to be finalised and held in a fixed order. Nothing new is introduced unless it extends or applies the law without altering its structure.

 

Carmen Jackson Art, author of Muddy Banks

 

 

 

Everyone is given twelve new chapters and 365 new pages to write their story on New Year’s Day so, I have decided to write down my thoughts through journaling or starting a new creative idea that I can follow through with from beginning to end. I will challenge myself to do this but I will also not be hard on myself if I miss a day of writing. My goal is simply to continue to do what I love to do; to write and to put smiles on people’s faces.
I have four more stories in the “Grandma to the Rescue” series. My ultimate goal is to get all my books in the series published.

 

Clare Willis, author of Grandma to the Rescue

 

 

 

My writing goals for 2026 are to finish my children's book and to continue working on poems for my poetry collection.
I wrote a short story many years ago about a little girl struggling to understand why this person - Bill telephoned her mother all the time. And why the calls were so upsetting. I am editing the story and working with an illustrator. It is a different process than my novel but really fun to cater a story for the little ones.
Poetry is so expressive and real. My poems are an opportunity for people to get a glimpse of my world view and emotional releases. Opening up in this way can take fifteen minutes, fifteen days or fifteen years. That is the essence of a poet and a creative. Words tied to emotions that are as fragile as the writer allows. My goal is to let myself go (around all my stressors!!) and add as many poems to my collection as I can.

ch Williams, author of Mel.

 

 

 

My writing goals for 2026 is to write my first horror erotica and start writing my 7th book as well. My goal is also to not limit myself with creativity and push myself to publish with no fear of judgement over my imagination. I would also like to work on turning one of my books into an audio book. 2026 will be deep creativity!

 

Rue Willow, author of The Forsaken Killer

 

 

 

I hope to finish a decent draft of my companion book to In Kinship with Dogs. In this next book I discuss cases. How I helped dogs who struggled with fears, anxieties, frustrations. How I helped them and their families succeed. What worked, what didn't and why. An honest account. In addition I'll help promote In Kinship with Dogs. More activity on social media. Book signings. Talking with people about their dogs. And reading is always on my list. Both continued literary research and fiction.

 

Silvia Jay, author of In Kinship with Dogs

 

 

 

Find a better planning style and work on my writing technique a bit more.

 

Codi Ryan, author of Fine Lines

 

 

 

Well my goals are getting in depth of theology and history, getting lots of books to read, audiobook and watching videos. As a follower of Christ, I wanted to read a lot and spend time in theology; it's going to be a massive long journey, but I'm patient. As for writing, I'm currently working on a new book; doing plotting, setting and character development. I've got many stories to go. I wanna write more and learn how to write a good story, characters and give myself a read of my own story since it's out of my mind and I wanna daydream about it. But along my writing journey, I want to improve and learn more about storytelling before writing my second most precious baby, a horror story based in character scenarios. But aiming towards till I get to my first precious baby of them all. A dark fantasy series, with first the story, then 2 prequels, then sequel and after it, a spinoff. When I get to those two in particular, I'm gonna be having fun and excited because I've finally reached to them. But first, other stories gotta come out first before I reached them.

 

Oktay Ozalp, author of Seeking From What's Lost

 

 

 

I currently have one other book close to the printing stage. It has three stories about children sent to Canada in the last century. City boys sent to farms have to learn a rural way of life and in two cases have to learn a new language.
One book I am currently writing is about a nurse who spends WW11 in Burma and India.She has a deformed brother and so has an affinity for deformed children.
My goal for 2026 is to keep wrting and I have two story outlines in my mind and brief notes on paper.

 

Keith Fisher, author of More Brummie Stories.

 

 

 

Poetic justice. My writing goals for the year are to publish a collection of poetry that explores the woes and wins of modern life.

 

Kendra Scurfield, author of Lovey Buggy

 

 

 

To finish a first draft on my second novel featuring Archangel Michael.

 

Bridget Smith, author of Godsend

 

 

My primary goal this year is to edit the first draft of my second novel!! I spent all of 2025 completing it and now for the tedious part- editing! Reading helps my writing so I definitely need to be reading more and hopefully complete my Goodreads challenge this year. I’m big into Fantasy and Romantasy and this year hoping to read some horror aswell. Also, I’d like to focus on my book blog and write a few more reviews and perhaps write an article or two for the daily paper. Fingers crossed I manage it!

 

Rayhab Khan, author of Unforgettable

 

 

 

My goal is to submit The Inspector Bruno Chronicles 'House of the Brooding Man' for publication. I also want to work full time teaching as much as possible!

 

Jonathan Stanyer, author of Scrutiny of the Saints.

 

 

 

I'm writing a novel - my first foray into fiction.

 

Hugh J Thomson, author of The doctor will see you now

 

 

 

In 2026, my main goal is to continue working honestly across the different forms of storytelling that matter to me — writing, film, and visual art. I want to give The Madness and Rachel the space to find its readers naturally, without forcing it, while I begin shaping new work that builds on the questions the novel explores. Above all, my aim is to remain attentive — to people, to experience, and to the quiet moments where meaning often reveals itself.

 

Gérard Barbe, author of The Madness and Rachel

 

 

 

As 2026 begins I have to admit that I don’t have many clearly formulated writing goals, yet. There are some ideas stirring, but more of those later! My focus has been much more on getting “In An Old Land” off of the stocks and into print. It’s the third book in a trilogy about the hidden folk of England, and whereas the first book introduced the characters and settings, and the second book developed ideas about magic and its risks, this one pulls all the threads together. I feel it completes the storyline and that the three books now form a nicely rounded tale (although I did write each one so that it could be read alone and still offer a good story). I’m very grateful to Pegasus for producing the books and my illustrations so beautifully, and getting them out there!
And so on to new ideas. My wife, her sister and I visited Iceland at the end of last year. The three of us do appear in my books, but we also exist in reality, and sometimes go on holidays. Iceland in winter gripped me in a very visceral way. Things Norse have always fascinated me, and here was a culture that still used runes on its road signs, and where place names celebrate characters from the sagas. We visited all the usual tourist stops – Gullafoss, ?ingvellir and The Geysir, and they were all marvellous. Underlying them, though, was an unspoken, private culture, with a half -belief in the supernatural. Reykjavik at Christmas was full of references to The Jolakotturinn, a gigantic Yuletide cat which stalks unwary citizens and eats those who don’t wear new clothes for Christmas! Yes, he eats them! When our tour guide briefly mislaid one of us tourists in a field under the Northern Lights at midnight, she briefly wondered whether Gryla had got them. Gryla is a ghastly troll who comes down from the mountains at Yule!
Here then are some wonderful folkloric themes which suggest new stories to me. Iceland has certainly reawakened my old interests in the north, and I have a feeling that’s where my storytelling will lead in 2026.

Geoff Denman, author of In An Old Land

 

 

 

I have several writing goals for 2026 and they include: to attend local readings that feature authors from a variety of genres, to conduct and attend writing workshops, to promote my book and read it to children. I am working on manuscripts for children and adults. I also plan on spending more time with my family, especially our newest member, my first granddaughter, who was born in October of 2025.

 

Nina Padolf, author of Samantha, The Peanut Butter Detective

 

 

 

I would like to write a novel about a yoga retreat in Costa Rica where the main character discovers that spirituality is more than meditation itself but it connects her to others in a way she never could imagine.

 

Emma Allen, author of Memories of a Traveler

 

 

 

My goal for 2026 is to finish a fiction novel I've been working on for the last few years but I'm hoping to finish this year. The main character is a women and the story is about her relationships and life evolving in dramatic ways.

 

Kate Fox, author of Then You Don't See Me

 

 

 

My 2026 writing goal is to prepare the best wedding speech in human history plus start and hopefully finish a new screenplay and develop more children’s books.

 

Dod Insch, author of There's a boy in my book

 

 

 

2026 is shaping up to be a big year all round! Between the publication of my first book (to be Normal), surviving my first year at university, and spending time with friends old and new, there’s plenty to look forward to. I’m also aiming to brush up on my writing and creativity skills by drafting a new novel and attempting my university assignments — which, we all know will be done at the last possible moment!

 

Rosie Sanderson, author of to be Normal

 

 

 

My past books, all 13 of them, have been focused on disability-related issues. But the book I am currently working on does not even touch on this theme. It is about a young woman who grew up in a rather unfortunate family and has the psychological scars to prove it. After years of struggling just to get by in life with an inadequate education, she experiences a sudden windfall and a great personal loss. How she negotiates her new path in life and grows and learns in the process is the central theme of the book. I hope to have this book ready for submission in the next month or so.
I also have three other book projects in various stages of completion. One is a children's book with a twist. It is about two friends whose second children are born days apart but in very different conditions: Adam, a little boy, is bright and energetic. Jennie, a little girl, deals with multiple disabilities. The book is about the two families remaining close and sharing their younger children's birthday parties through their early years in surprisingly different but similar ways.
Another of my book projects is tentatively entitled "When accessible washrooms are not accessible". It is a collection of stories about people dealing with such significant physical disabilities that even the most accessible washroom is not accessible to them, and about providing a possible solution: a wheelchair with a built-in lift and a concealed, built-in commode unit.
My other book project is to develop an omnibus version of my 10-volume Claire Burke mystery series. The publisher of this series went out of business a year ago, and the rights reverted to me. I hope to republish this on Kindle as an e-book that can either be purchased or accessed for free through the Kindle Unlimited lending library. Since this book series takes an inside look at people dealing with various disabilities but does so in an engaging and often humorous way, my goal is to get as many people as possible to read it so they can experience the richness and diversity of the disability world that I have been so much a part of for the past 48 years since the birth of my younger daughter, Alexis.

Emma Pivato, author of Gourmet Purée: What to do if you can't Chew!

 

 

 

I am looking forward to the publication of my first children's book this month hoping that it is a success! This will be a dream come true particularly as I was never quite sure what book I was going to write some day. I am hoping that this would not be my last book in this genre and have already started framing other books with this title, providing stories based on young children's experiences with a grandparent.

 

Marika George, author of Nana and Me

 

 

 

Easy answer would be that my main goal for 2026 is fairly simple. Just to write as much as I can and to keep writing regularly (I should probably apologise to my family in advance for this). That said, and perhaps this is the Finnish oddball in me talking, there is one idea I’ve been wanting to try for quite some time.
I’d like to experiment with writing a chapter that doesn’t actually describe events at all. Instead, the chapter would explain what it would be about if it were written in the usual way. What kind of chapter it would be, what its tone would be, and why it matters. In other words, a chapter defined by what is left unwritten.
I’m interested in this because it leaves more room for the reader. It doesn’t explain everything or tie things up neatly. Exploring that space between what is said and what is left unsaid is something I’d really like to spend more time with in my writing during 2026.

 

Pete Valkkinen, author of Pie Recipes

 

 

 

In 2026 I plan to continue writing a series of horror novellas that incorporate elements of science fiction and social satire.

 

David R. Scott, author of White Trash

 

 

 

My main 2026 interest is on how the human rebellion is working out. That is the context in which human relationships develop and fail. We are no longer able to avoid an honest reassessment of human achievement. Much of the detail is absolutely incredible, but nevertheless, the broad picture is of avoidable existential disaster, led by nastily selfish, small-minded members of the ruling class. That is being rebelled against by new generations of humanity driven by truth and moral values.

 

Gordon Pearson, author of Last Chance Rebellion

 

 

 

In 2026, I hope to finish a sequel to my current book ‘Cara’s Twitch”. This sequel is about how Cara and her friend Solo reunite, and have another adventure, however, time they are assisted by a kind and caring ‘park ranger’.

 

Gregory Reynolds, author of Cara’s Twitch

 

 

 

Aspiring writers are always looking for some sort of inspiration and travelling the world is a great way to do just that and in 2026, I will be combining two of my favourite pastimes - travelling and writing. I will be on the road for over six months, visiting placecs like Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Morocco, Guatamala and I intend to record the entire trip in writing, in order nto refine my ability to capture the sensory details that photographs do not capture. In order to become a better writer, I want to hone in on my observation skills, as well as experiment with diffrent genres.
I plan to record events and places and then turn them into short stories by playing around with different scenarios. For example, the first leg of this trip is on a cruise ship, so I am going to create different scenarios for this setting - wealthy socialite boards the ship and then mysteriously disappears; pirates hijack the ship; aliens attack the earth and only the people on board the ship survive. Similarly, the waiter on the cruise ship will become an international spy, a serial killer, a professional hypnotist and so on.
Using the same idea, I will experiment with different genres - science fiction, horror, romance, action/adventure.
I want to concentrate on writing short stories, so I can develop as many ideas as possible - with the view to expanding it at a later date.

 

Anna Ryan, author of A Valiant Heart

 

 

 

This year my goal is just to write. I didn’t write as much in 2025, and was way too stuck in my head about things. Writing is such a simple tool for getting your feelings out, especially when they’re about a person. This year, I’m working on a new book. I’m not sure if it will be a sequel to “Pathetic Fallacy”, or how it will be related, but they have the same muse.
May 2026, bring us all the opportunity to write more.

 

Brooke Biddle, author of Pathetic Fallacy

 

 

 

What am I most excited about? Honestly, that’s a tough one. If I had to choose, I think I’m hoping to believe in myself a little more. To trust that I’m not just someone who enjoys writing stories, but someone who’s slowly, steadily shaping a career in storytelling, illustration, and children’s media. That's the plan anyway. But ask me again in a month. I might still be hibernating from the year before.

 

Jessica Woo, author of What Goes Unseen

 

 

 

I have a number of writing goals for 2026, the first is to complete a second collection of poetry. I have learnt loads during the process of completing moving parts and am ready to integrate this into my second collection. I am also excited to experiment with poetry and song, I have my first opportunity to do this at an event this month. A local poet is reading one of my works while I accompany him on guitar and sing a refrain in between verses. I'll let you know how it goes. I also co-host a podcast 'the emergence room' and often write an article or two to accompany episodes I am looking forward to continuing this. (https://substack.com/@space2behuman). One of the underlying essences of my writing for 2026 is the realisation that I am at my best when I am most outspoken! What I mean by this is when I outrageously vulnerable in my writing, and when I share emerging ideas that may not be fully formed that I when I feel most alive.

 

Robert Husband, author of Moving Parts

 

 

 

My goal would be to continue writing poetry at the same pace as I am now, and I am possibly working on a screenplay right now, nothing concrete as is but I hope to get something done.

 

Theodór S. Hafstað, author of 50 Ways to Say ___

 

 

 

As I’ve written a trilogy of books about “Related Storey’s “, which is a family saga about the Storey family, and I expect, after book 1 is released end of January 2026, my goal for the rest of the year, will be editing books two and three, to ensure my readers continue to enjoy the characters and the various challenges they encounter, obviously with a view to having these two books published in the future. I will also be concentrating on some of my children’s stories too, and if I have time, continue reading the Housemaid by Freida McFadden!

 

Lorrie Wilson-Manns, author of Related Storey’s

 

 

 

Reflecting on my last year, I find that while it was a challenging year I wasn’t disciplined enough on having fun. I’m sure we all get caught up in the daily grind and forget to embrace our fun exuberant inner selves. So, my writing goal this year stems from allowing myself to allow down time to let myself enjoy free time. I have a novel I’m working on in the background, also I have three more children’s books I would like to finish. But with a beach less than a minute away from my home, I intend to take a hot coffee and feel the sand between my toes and let myself be inspired! Wishing everyone a fantastic, inspirational 2026. Let your dreams fly free!

 

Jenni Wickhard, author of Have you ever never seen?

 

 

 

Complete the final review of my second book, Long Grass Burning - George My Father

 

Peter John Prior, author of Long Grass Calling - A Fortunate Childhood

 

 

 

I have already started a new writing project for 2026. Im focused on new inspirational ideas at the moment and so far Im happy with how its coming along. I dont want to say too much about it right now because Im only in the early stages of my written project. I intend for it to be inspirational and uplifting. My goals for this year include travel to new places, meet new likeminded people, continue on my writing journey and read lots more wonderful books.

 

Linda Sue Phillips, author of I Believe its all Possible

 

 

 

I'm about to finalize a very special book that marks my wonderful experience of living in London. It is a book for children but not only, which contains the story of an adventurous and fun trip to the capital of the United Kingdom by the Ducks family of 4. A mix of children's story as well as a travel guide. The start of this year 2026 is certainly very exciting as it starts with the publication of "The Dream" which will take me around London, to present the story in bookstores, schools and libraries. I'm also developing creative and artistic brand identity projects for some local businesses that bring me great enthusiasm and fun and allow me to read and study books and materials before starting creating the business brand identity. I love reading in all its forms as well as writing - two greatest passions in my life!!

 

Zeli, author of The Dream

 

 

 

I am at writing the third novel in this series of a small group of ex special military people, men and women, and their adventures, good and bad, successful, but not always as planned. This book is titled Extraction and Retribution, which follows Hybrid Conflict., the second book, Monkey Business is the first that is due out in the first months of this year. After I've sent in this third manuscript and had it accepted for publication, I hope to complete the illustrations for a children's book, The Witch and the Petdragon.

 

Peter C. L. Harrison, author of Monkey Business

 

 

 

Welcome to 2026! This year marks my 60th trip around the sun, and while my husband and kids are off in corners whispering about "top-secret celebration plans," I am over here just trying to figure out how I became the CEO of a life this chaotic.
My New Years Resolution is to specifically not have resolutions. My life is already a buffet of ‘busy’ and the older I get the more I try to live in the present! But then... the "Eeeeeekkkk!" happened, my debut novel is officially LIVE. (Yes, you can buy it. Yes, I am hyperventilating.)
Being a published author means I can no longer ignore the sequel-shaped elephant in the room. Currently, my draft looks less like a book and more like a pile of magnetic poetry that’s been hit by an industrial-strength leaf blower. Making sense of it is going to require some serious concentration skills.

So, how does a productivity ninja (currently disguised as a relaxed grandma) manage a career, a literary empire, a co-dependent marriage, and a small army of descendants? By setting some very un-goal-like goals.
• Delete the phrase "What was I thinking?" from my notes in certain chapters and simply assume I am a misunderstood genius and keep moving.
• Outsource all non-writing tasks (like finding my own reading glasses) to the husband to protect "Empire Building" time.
• Finish the sequel before the kids’ "top-secret" birthday plans accidentally blow my cover.

Tracy Joy, author of Ace

 

 

 

"Good day, my dear readers!

Here are my creative plans for 2026:

1. In February 2026, I plan to travel to India for the presentation of my stories translated into Urdu (translator: Ahlak Ahan, professor of Jawaharlal Nehru University).

2. In March 2026, I intend to attend the launch of my fourth novel from the ""Queens of Turan"" series, ""Gavharshod Begum,"" which has been translated into Arabic (translator: Manar Abdelsalam) and is being published in Egypt.

3. In May 2026, two novels from the ""Queens of Turan"" series - ""Bibikhanim"" and ""Gavharshod Begum""—are on the verge of publication by the Turkish publishing house BAYGENÇ YAYINCILIK (translators: Nodira Davron and Hamza Öztürk).

4. In September 2026, I aim to publish my work from the ""Queens of Turan"" series about the Baburid princess Zebunniso Begum, titled ""The Numberless Prisoner, or the Imprisoned Princess.""

5. In November 2026, translations of my novel ""Gavharshod Begum"" are scheduled for release in Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan."

 

Shahodat Isakhanova, author of Queen of Turan

 

 

 

I am bursting with ideas, having published my first book (I'm going to nowhere). My ultimate dream is that any child finding life hard can access the help they need. Planned future projects include topics such as navigating friendships/relationships, neurodivergence, identity, and how to face the scary stuff!

 

Hayley Farrar, author of I'm going to Nowhere

 

 

 

 

I have drafted three more books. The provisional titles:
Bobby Bad Shoes - a story about a boy who is bullied at school about his bad shoes but he grows up to be the superstar of footwear.
The Bubble Pod - about a little girl who loves adventure, she finds this magical bubble pod which allows her to travel above the trees and beneath the seas!
Lumpy Crumble - a true story about a rescue dog who was lost, forlorn, weird looking and from a hopeless situation battled through adversity and found love and the true meaning of home in a foreign land.

 

E J Whiteley, author of The Duvet Dragon

 

 

 

My writing goals for 2026 are to finish my second children's book all about a brave magical horse! To finish writing my two Jukebox Musical scripts for something Christmas themed and Halloween themed, along with finishing my play script / screenplay that is based on my late Grandma - she always wanted to write her own story about her life but left us too soon before she could do it, so in her honour I am creating a fictional story that shares some of the things she went through and experienced that she told me while I was growing up.
Knowing me, I will also get some more ideas that will have to be jotted down in preparation for 2027! A busy year!

 

Hayley Grant, author of The Gremlin in the Dryer

 

 

 

Daisy's next chapter! Daisy the Sri Lankan Street Dog is now 11 years old and is a very happy, active dog. Since moving to the UK 9 years ago her life has been packed full of exciting adventures and a different way of living. She made friends with a Bear! (Nelson Newfoundland), lived in a country house with open fire places, learned about British wildlife and weather, tried out London for a bit, and even moved to Bristol! There's so much of her amazing story to tell - my task for this year is her sequel and how much to include. Life wouldn't be the same without my little, furry best friend & can't wait to tell more of her story.

 

Tamryn Stowell, author of The Sri Lankan Street Dog

 

 

 

Should 'Three of a Kind be successful, I would like to complete the Alan Simpson series

 

Martin Wallace, author of Three of a Kind

 

 

 

My writing goals for this year are to focus on the skills necessary to help me be able to write a best seller. I want to understand how to bring my characters to life and really jump out of the page at the reader. I am currently writing my second book but I’m trying to make it longer so I’m aiming to improve my vocabulary and introduce new ideas for new chapters. I also want to read my first 400 page book, probably by Stephen King or James Herbert.

 

G.A.Thomson, author of The Night Things

 

 

 

To continue researching and developing new story ideas. It’s always fun seeing where the characters take me as they become fleshed out beings.

 

Caitlain Reavley, author of Grandads Treasure

 

 

 

My goal is to finalize my short story collection.

 

Chris Booz, author of The Cottonwood Trap

 

 

 

2026 will bring a refreshing addition to my children's book writing, as I am excited to share I will be working with my stepdaughter Faith on, hopefully, completing another story. We have been interested in a storyline that will resonate greatly with children of blended families, just as she is. She is a recent graduate of University with highest honours and great achievement on her essays and stories, and I am delighted to share this opportunity with her.
In my own personal space, I will be looking back into a fiction story I began writing some time ago and look forward to having the time to continue working on it. I feel it is an exciting adventure of a modern woman who winds her way through her own power and success after suddenly finding herself single.
I love writing, and I love having the time for it, and I am extremely happy for my first children's book being published early 2026.

 

Shari Moss, author of The Marshmallow Kids

 

 

 

Writing-wise, I can't say there is much of a plan. I enjoy putting words to the page, but my main focus for this year is reading. There is a famous dispute between two philosophers that I plan to dig into, and I suspect any interesting tidbits gleaned from their battle will trickle down into what comes next in the series. And oh! Editing. Just as there are always dishes in the sink to clean, there is always editing and rewriting to polish what has already been built.

 

Clark Templeton, author of Walls Of Age

 

 

 

My plans for now are to attempt to finish editing/rewriting the second book as I'm over halfway, starting chapter 20 out of current 33 chapters, though it will end up longer since im adding new sections. This process has already taken a year, so hoping to get it out of the way before next year. Second goal is to finish the fifth book which would then allow me to focus purely on editing the remainder of the series before I would continue with the next book. As writing two books is a bit of challenge as I don't have enough time. If I do manage to finish before the year ends I might get a chance to move on to the third one.

 

Kamile Genzur, author of Iolite Blade

 

 

 

By the middle of 2026 I would like to have completed the second book in the Quintessence Series and submit it for consideration of publication. Approximately 0.33 GBP from each book sold in the Quintessence series will go towards supporting orphanage schools in India.
I also want to finish the first in a series of health books from a unique perspective as I want it to be a fun and humorous read despite the seriousness of the subject. Finally, in the background I am working on a science fiction series that has a unique take on Dark Matter.

 

Drustiguru Peacock, author of Quintessence: The Progenitor

 

 

 

I have set myself up for a good year and I am very excited to see how it unfolds! My writing goals for 2026 is to first change my usual "I want" to "I will!" So, "I will" write more than I have ever before and try something new. I have many projects in the works and "I will" be tidying those up, while getting started on my new ones as well. "I will" finish the sequel to my current release and submit. My debut picture book is coming out this year, which I am looking forward to sharing more about that soon! Every year I say "I want" to read more. This year.. "I will" read more.... even if it's in the garden or at the beach!

 

Sheri L. Davis, author of Farewell... Fair Well

 

 

 

My current writing project is an illustrated book on the metaphysics of shame, the genesis of shame and the answers to shame for us as a species. It is an ambitious project in poetic form. I also have a number of illustrated books written as childrens books, but really psychospiritual messages in simple, short and palatable form. My goal for writing is to give the public something short, profound and quickly read, in an age where attention to reading anything too long is limited.

 

Lyndall Johnson, author of The Luna Moth

 

 

 

I remain interested in synchronities in our lives and how they work! I like to trace these synchronicities in character's lives. They act like leads, hinting at our next steps. Often we can become trapped in roles that do not really suit us, through social conditioning etc. If we can lookout for these synchronicities, I believe the Universe can help deliver us to a more authentic situation! This is my most recent quest to write a book that focuses on this topic.

 

Kaye Slater, The Belinda Stories

 

 

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Thank you to our authors for taking part in this feature!

 

Make sure to take a look at our newest titles in our “Latest Releases” category today!

 

and once again, Happy Publication Day everyone!