The world of science fiction is always expanding, offering fresh takes on futuristic technology, alien encounters, and distant space travel. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the genre, there are some truly stellar recent releases that will ignite your imagination. Here are four top-quality sci-fi or space opera books published in the last five years.
1. “Project Hail Mary” by Andy Weir
Published: 2021
Amazon Link: Get it here
Andy Weir, the author of the acclaimed novel The Martian, returns with another masterful sci-fi tale in Project Hail Mary. This novel follows Ryland Grace, a lone astronaut on a mission to save humanity from an extinction-level threat. Waking up alone in a spaceship far from Earth, with no memory of how he got there, Grace must use his wits and scientific knowledge to overcome insurmountable odds. The book mixes humor, suspense, and hard science in a way that only Weir can deliver.
2. “The Kaiju Preservation Society” by John Scalzi
Published: 2022
Amazon Link: Get it here
John Scalzi is a Hugo Award-winning author known for his sharp wit and compelling space operas. The Kaiju Preservation Society is set during the COVID-19 pandemic but with a twist: it takes us to an alternate Earth, where massive kaiju monsters roam the planet. The protagonist, Jamie, stumbles upon a secret organization tasked with protecting these creatures from human interference. Scalzi delivers a fast-paced, humorous novel full of adventure, wonder, and giant monsters. Yes I like John Scalzi, sue me.
3. “A Psalm for the Wild-Built” by Becky Chambers
Published: 2021
Amazon Link: Get it here
Becky Chambers, known for her Wayfarers series, offers a gentler, philosophical take on sci-fi with A Psalm for the Wild-Built. In this story, set on the planet Panga, a tea monk named Dex embarks on a journey of self-discovery and encounters a robot named Mosscap. The robots of Panga had long ago retreated into the wilderness, leaving humanity alone. Mosscap returns with a single question: “What do people need?” It’s a thought-provoking exploration of human existence and our place in the world, wrapped in a charming, hopeful narrative.
4. “Gideon the Ninth” by Tamsyn Muir
Published: 2019
Amazon Link: Get it here
Tamsyn Muir’s Gideon the Ninth is a genre-defying space opera that mixes necromancy, sword fighting, and political intrigue. The protagonist, Gideon, is an irreverent warrior with a mysterious past, serving a deathly house in a far-flung star system. As she embarks on a deadly competition with her master Harrowhark, they uncover ancient mysteries that could change the fate of the universe. Gideon the Ninth is praised for its unique voice, whip-smart dialogue, and dark humor.
Each of these novels offers something unique, from humorous monster battles to serious reflections on humanity’s future. Whether you’re looking for a lighthearted adventure or a more philosophical journey, these top sci-fi e-books will keep you entertained and leave you thinking long after the last page.
Happy reading!
