Don’t we all, as a kid, want to go beyond the stars and see what is out there, and as adults, desperately want to travel in the past or future anytime we want? Sci-Fi Books are the best way to make some of these dreams come true.
Moreover, with its advanced technology, the sci-fi trope makes those dreams seem within our reach, which is one reason why it is a prevalent genre.
So, lastly, here, we bring you the best sci-fi books you can binge-read to quench your thirst for navigating the stars and advancing in technology.
#1 The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams
About the book
Title: The Hitchhiker’s Guide to The Galaxy
Author: Douglas Adams
Genre: Science Fiction, Space Opera
Publisher: Del Rey
Type: Series
No. of Books: 5
Books in it: #1 The Hitchhiker’s Guide to The Galaxy, #2 The Restaurant at the End of The Universe, #3 Life, The Universe, and Everything, #4 So Long, and Thanks for All The Fish, #5 Mostly Harmless
Goodreads rating: 4.2/5
The Earth is about to be demolished to complete the galactic freeway. But, seconds before that, Arthur Dent is saved by his friend Ford Prefect, who is not from Earth and is a researcher for the revised edition of The Hitch Hiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. Unfortunately, the book has been posing like an out-of-work actor for fifteen years. So, finally, together, they begin their journey through space, and “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” acts as a good source of information to save their lives and is a good source of space opera books.
Why do we recommend this book?
However, the characters are hilarious! So many times, I laughed out loud because I couldn’t help it. The book is so fun, with different types of aliens with quirks. Moreover, it will light up your life with its witty jokes and sense of humor. You need to read this. However, I will always recommend this book. Lastly, it is one of the best Sci-Fi books ever.
To buy/gift The Hitchhiker’s Guide to The Galaxy, click on the below link:
#2 Dark Matter by Blake Crouch
About the book
Title: Dark Matter
Author: Blake Crouch
Genre: Science Fiction, Mystery
Publisher: Crown
Type: Standalone
Pages: 340
Goodreads rating: 4.1/5
What happens when the reality you live in shatters? Jason Dessen is walking home from the bar and is excited to get back to her wife and his son before everything changes. ‘Are you happy in your life,’ these are the last words Jason hears when someone kidnaps him and knocks him unconscious. However, the next thing he knows, he wakes up to a man he doesn’t know whose first words are ‘Welcome back.’ He seems to have woken up in this world which doesn’t have his wife and son. Moreover, it’s like they never even existed. Is it real, or is he dreaming? The answers lie in a wondrous and horrifying journey than anything he could’ve imagined.
Why do we recommend this book?
This book was incredible. Moreover, it has everything one can need- fast-paced, thrilling, and skeptical. However, it has a perfect page-turning feel and keeps the readers on the edge of their toes, making them want to know what is about to happen. Lastly, this book is ideal for a science fiction beginner.
To buy/gift Dark Matter, click on the below link:
#3 The Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells
About the book
Title: The Murderbot Diaries
Author: Martha Wells
Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy
Publisher: Tor.com
Type: Series
No. of Books: 6
Books in it: #1 All Systems Red, #2 Artificial Condition, #3 Rogue Protocol, #4 Exit Strategy, #5 Network Effect, #6 Fugitive Telemetry
The Company must approve and supply planetary missions in a corporate-dominated spacefaring future. But in this society, when contracts can be provided to almost everyone, safety is an issue. However, on a distant planet, a team of scientists is conducting surface tests, shadowed by their Company-supplied ‘droid — a self-aware SecUnit that has hacked its governor module and refers to itself as “Murderbot.” But when the mission goes sideways, Murderbot has to decide whether to flee from the government or save its humans.
Why do we recommend this?
Murderbot is an incredible character. He is a robot designed to kill people who are a threat to its contracted humans, but all he ever wants to do is watch T.V. shows like Sanctuary Moon and Worldhoppers. However, he is such a relatable character with an extreme level of sarcasm, and most books are super short, making them perfect to binge-read. Finally, it is one of the best Sci-Fi books ever.
To buy/gift The Murderbot Diaries Book 1, click on the below link:
#4 The Machineries of Empire by Yoon Ha Lee
About the Book
Title: The Machineries of Empire
Author: Yoon Ha Lee
Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy
Publisher: Solaris Books
Type: Series
No. of Books: 3
Books in it: #1 Ninefox Gambit, #2 Raven Stratagem, #3 Revenant Gun
The disgraced captain Kel Cheris must recapture the formidable Fortress of Scattered Needles to redeem herself in front of the Hexarchate. To do so, she would have to do something almost impossible. She will have to awaken an ancient weapon and a despised traitor general. Cheris’s best hope is to ally with the undead tactician Shuos Jedao. The good news is that Jedao has never lost a battle, and he may be the only one who can successfully figure out how to besiege the fortress. Will she be able to save the Hexarchate? Or will it be the end?
Why do we recommend this book?
This book is a masterpiece. Yoon Ha Lee created this unique world that uses mathematical formations. The way the author foreshadowed some of the plot points was fantastic. The book is confusing at first, but when you get it, it becomes a masterpiece.
To buy/gift The Machineries of Empire Book 1, click on the below link:
#5 The Expanse Series by James S.A. Corey
About the Book
Title: The Expanse
Author: James S.A. Corey
Genre: Science Fiction, Space Opera
Publisher: Orbit
Type: Series
No. of Books: 9
Books in it: #1 Leviathan Wakes, #2 Caliban’s War, #3 Abaddon’s Gate, #4 Cibola Burn, #5 Nemesis Game, #6 Babylon’s Ash, #7 Persepolis Rising, #8 Tiamat’s Wrath, #9 Leviathan Falls
Goodreads rating: 4.3/5
In this futuristic science fiction, humanity has colonized the solar system- the moon, Mars, the Asteroid Belt, and beyond. The stars, however, are still out of their reach. This story follows Jin Holder, X.O. of an ice mining ship making runs from Saturn’s rings to the Belt mining stations. Trouble starts when they encounter an abandoned ship, the Scopuli. Jim has to keep his crew safe and secure because the secrets they find on the Scopuli can cost them their lives.
Why do we recommend this book?
Moreover, this book is perfect for someone starting their science fiction journey. Easy to read and follow, it keeps readers on their seats. In addition, this has a mystery around it that makes it all the more fun to read. Finally, it follows a dual POV: Holden and Detective Miller, and the way they cross paths are excellent and is one of the best Sci-Fi books ever.
To buy/gift The Expanse Series Book 1, click on the below link:
#6 Teixcalaan Duology by Arkady Martine
About the Book
Title: Teixcalaan
Author: Arkady Martine
Genre: Science Fiction, Space Opera, Science fiction fantasy
Publisher: Tor
Type: Series
No. of Books: 2
Books in it: #1 A Memory Called Empire, #2 A Desolation Called Peace
Goodreads rating: 4.1/5
This book follows Ambassador Mahit Dzmare, who arrives at the center of the Teixcalaanli Empire. However, after arriving there, she knows that her previous predecessor from their small mining station, whose memory she has in the chip is inside her mind, is dead. She wonders whether he died of natural causes or someone killed him. Finally finding the truth behind her predecessor’s death, Mahit gets entangled in a web of politics, lies, and secrets. Moreover, will she be able to discover the truth? Or will the fact end the stability that the empire has established? Read this excellent book from the space opera books genre to know more.
Why do we recommend this book?
This book is good in everything, whether word building, politics, character development, or mystery. I loved this book so much. However, it can be difficult for many readers as it is a complex world, and only some things are spoon-fed. Therefore, you must pay attention while reading it; otherwise, you might miss some crucial details. It also has excellent LGBT representation, which is also a plus. Lastly, the book is fantastic and is one of the best Sci-Fi books ever.
To buy/gift Teixcalaan Duology Book 1, click on the below link:
#7 A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers
About the Book
Title: A Psalm for the Wild-Built
Author: Becky Chambers
Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy
Publisher: Tordot.com
Type: Standalone
Pages: 160
Goodreads rating: 4.3/5
Panga was a state filled with robots. But centuries ago, all the robots gained self-awareness and left humanity to live their own lives. The robots were never seen again; as time passed, they became legends and myths. Now, a tea monk out in different areas to sell tea encounters a robot, and everything changes. The robot’s first question upon meeting the tea monk was, “What do people need.” But the answer to that question depends on who you ask and how. They will need to ask a lot.
Why do we recommend this book?
This book had such a positive feel to it. It forces one to look within themselves and find what makes them happy. As usual, Becky Chambers created such deep and diverse characters that you can’t help but fall in love with them. You will love this book if you like slow, speculative fiction that makes one want to introspect. Lastly, it is one of the best Sci-Fi books ever.
To buy/gift A Psalm for the Wild-Built, click on the below link:
#8 Lock In by John Scalzi
About the Book
Title: Lock In
Author: John Scalzi
Genre: Science Fiction, Mystery
Publisher: Tor Books
Type: Series
No. of Books: 2
Books in it: #1 Lock In, #2 Head On
Goodreads rating: 3.9/5
A highly contagious virus takes over the globe -most who get sick experience nothing worse than flu, fever, and headaches. But for the unlucky one percent – and nearly five million souls in the United States alone – the disease causes “Lock In”: Victims fully awake and aware but unable to move or respond to stimulus. This syndrome came to be known as “Haden’s Syndrome.” FBI agent Chris Shane is paired with veteran agent Leslie Vann. The two of them are assigned what appears to be a Haden-related murder at the Watergate Hotel, with a suspect who is an “integrator” – someone who can let the locked-in borrow their bodies for a time. The investigation that began as a murder case takes Shane and Vann from the halls of corporate power to the virtual spaces of the locked-in and the heart of an emerging, surprising new human culture.
Why do we recommend this book?
This book series was so unique. It was unlike anything I’d ever read. The idea of letting someone in our body(although mentally) was terrifying and something that is far too believable, making it all the more horrifying. It has more of a murder mystery vibe to it. Read this book to experience something unique and a little scary.
To buy/gift Lock In, click on the below link:
#9 The Protectorate Series by Meghan E. O’Keefe
About the Book
Title: The Protectorate
Author: Megan E. O’Keefe
Genre: Science Fiction, Space Opera, Science fiction fantasy
Publisher: Orbit
Type: Series
No. of Books: 3
Books in it: #1 Velocity Weapon, #2 Chaos Vector, #3 Catalyst Gate
Goodreads rating: 3.8/5
This book mainly follows two POVs: Sandra, who wakes up in an enemy spaceship and does not recall what happens. However, the spacecraft has an Artificial Intelligence that informs Sandra that 230 years have passed, her home planet is now gone, and she is the sole survivor. The other POV is of Biron Greeve, the brother of Sandra. He belongs to the group of Protectors, protecting their planet from enemy attacks. After hearing the enemy’s attacks, Biran uses all his political power to figure out where his sister is and what next step to take. Finally, Sanda and Biran must fight to put things right, separated by time and space.
Why do we recommend this book?
This book has excellent science elements. The A.I., who calls itself Bero, is fantastic. It is hilarious with its dry sense of humor. The plot twist was something that I didn’t even think of. So, this book surprised me. The characters are great, and the mystery is handled very well. Lastly, read this fantastic book from the best space opera books. You will not be disappointed.
To buy/gift The Protectorate Series Book 1, click on the below link:
#10 Andromeda Series by Michael Crichton
About the Book
Title: Andromeda
Author: Michael Crichton
Genre: Science Fiction, Thriller, Mystery
Publisher: Avon Books
Type: Series
No. of Books: 2
Books in it: #1 The Andromeda Strain, #2 The Andromeda Evolution
Goodreads rating: 3.9/5
Seventeen satellites are sent into space to collect different organisms and dust for study. Every precaution is taken to ensure that these unidentified species do not enter anywhere other than the Science labs. But something goes wrong. One of them falls to Earth, landing in a desolate area of Arizona. Twelve miles from the landing site, in the town of Piedmont, a shocking discovery is made: the streets are littered with the dead bodies of the town’s inhabitants as if they dropped dead in their tracks. What happened to them? Are these alien organisms out in the open?
Why do we recommend this book?
This book starts with a bang. It felt a lot like the current Covid-9 situation but (obviously) in fiction. It has a significant layer of suspense and thriller that keeps the readers on their toes. Although the ending was a little underwhelming, the setup to the end was terrific. It is a perfect book for the beginner in Science Fiction. Finally, it is one of the best Sci-Fi books ever.
To buy/gift Andromeda Series Book 1, click on the below link:
#11 Children of Time by Adrian Tchaikovsky
About the Book
Title: Children of Time
Author: Adrian Tchaikovsky
Genre: Science Fiction, Space Opera
Publisher: PanMacmillan
Type: Series
No. of Books: 2
Books in it: #1 Children of Time, #2 Children of Ruin
Goodreads rating: 4.3/5
Though Earth has been destroyed, humanity’s last survivors now need to find a new home. Their ancestors thought that this day might come soon and prepared for it. However, the survivors only need to find a planet designed for humans. But all is not as it seems. In addition, the Earth that was supposed to be prepared for humanity has new occupants. The planet is not waiting for them, pristine and unoccupied. Instead, new masters have turned it from a refuge into humankind’s worst nightmare. Both civilizations must pass the test for survival, but who will be the winner? To know more, read the book from the best space opera books.
Why do we recommend this book?
This book is unlike any science fiction I have ever read. The planet was supposed to have revolutionized humans, but you got giant intellectual spiders instead of humans? That was terrifying and amazing. Finally, this is a unique piece of art and is one of the best Sci-Fi books ever.
To buy/gift Children of Time, click on the below link:
#12 Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton
About the Book
Title: Jurassic Park
Author: Michael Crichton
Genre: Science Fiction, Thriller
Publisher: Ballantine Books
Type: Series
No. of Books: 2
Books in it: #1 Jurassic Park, #2 The Lost World
Goodreads rating: 4.1/5
Humankind has found a way to make their most thrilling dreams come true. A technique has been found through which dinosaurs’ DNA can be cloned. As a result, Jurassic Park provides these million years old once extinct species a home. Everyone can now see these creatures but with a price. Everything seems to be going well until one day, it isn’t. In Jurassic Park, Michael Crichton taps his mesmerizing talent and scientific brilliance to create his most electrifying technothriller.
Why do we recommend this book?
I loved the movies as a kid. But trust me when I tell you that the books are even better. The world, the imagination that Crichton put into this world, was fantastic. So, read this book if you haven’t already. And the best part, Dinosaurs! Who doesn’t love dinosaurs!?
To buy/gift Jurassic Park, click on the below link:
#13 Dune by Frank Herbert
About the Book
Title: Dune
Author: Frank Herbert
Genre: Science Fiction, Space Opera
Publisher: Chilton Books
Type: Series
No. of Books: 8
Books in it: #1 Dune, #2 Dune Messiah, #3 Children of Dune, #4 God Emperor of Dune, #5 Heretics of Dune, #6 Chapterhouse: Dune, #7 Hunters of Dune, #8 Sandworms of Dune
Goodreads rating: 4.3/5
This is the story of a boy, Paul Atreides, heir to a ruling family. They have to rule in an in-hospital situation where nothing on their planet is of value except for “spice” melange, a drug that can extend life and enhance consciousness. Moreover, after Atreides’s family is betrayed, Paul is on a journey to change his life. However, he is destined for a more significant cause that might bring humankind’s biggest dream to life.
Why do we recommend this book?
Frank Herbert’s prose is so good. Don’t go into this expecting a super cool intergalactic war because then you will be disappointed. Dune is much more than that. It starts very slow, but it is a wild ride when it gets going. Recently, Dune’s movie adaptation also came, and let me tell you that the movie is fantastic. Finally, it is one of the best Sci-Fi books ever.
To buy/gift Dune, click on the below link:
#14 The Interdependency Series by John Scalzi
About the Book
Title: The Interdependency
Author: John Scalzi
Genre: Science Fiction, Space Opera, Science fiction fantasy
Publisher: Tor Books
Type: Series
No. of Books: 3
Books in it: #1 The Collapsing Empire, #2 The Consuming Fire, #3 The Last Emperox
Goodreads rating: 4.1/5
The world is now ruled by physics, and traveling faster than light is also possible with the discovery of The Flow, an extra-dimensional field we can access at specific points in space-time that transports us to other worlds, around other stars. This discovery has helped humanity expand into space and create a new empire, the Interdependency, whose ethos requires that no human outpost can survive without the others. Though all is not as good as it seems, The Flow starts changing, cutting off worlds from the rest of humanity. When it’s discovered that The Flow is moving, possibly cutting off all human worlds from faster-than-light travel forever, three individuals — a scientist, a starship captain, and the Empress of the Interdependency are in a race against time to discover what, if anything, can be salvaged.
Why do we recommend this book?
This book was fantastic. It gives a good space opera vibe. John Scalzi has a way of adding humor to his books, even during serious situations that don’t feel forced. The characters are well-developed and fast-paced, making it go by quickly. If you love space operas, you should try this book. Lastly, it is one of the best Sci-Fi books ever.
To buy/gift The Interdependency Series Book 1, click on the below link:
#15 The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
About the Book
Title: The Hunger Games
Author: Suzanne Collins
Genre: Dystopian, Science fiction, Drama, Action
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Type: Series
No. of Books: 3
Books in it: #1 The Hunger Games, #2 Catching Fire, #3 Mockingjay
Goodreads rating: 4.3/5
Winning means fame and fortune, whereas losing means certain death. So the Hunger Games have begun. In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. The Capitol is harsh and cruel and keeps the districts in line by forcing them all to send one boy. One girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen participates in the annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death on live T.V. Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen regards it as a death sentence when she steps forward to take her sister’s place in the Games. But Katniss has been close to dead before and survived; for her, it is second nature. So, without really meaning to, she becomes a contender. But to win, she will have to start making choices that weigh survival against humanity and life against love.
Why do we recommend this book?
The book is written in simple English; the pacing is excellent. If you are looking for page descriptions of the scenes, this is not the book for you; this is all about action. A few characters run the whole book & the protagonist steals the show. Katniss feels real. She is scared, selfish at times & selfless at other times & makes mistakes. The character is slowly built and in the end, whatever action she takes becomes believable. Thus making this book an excellent read.
To buy/gift The Hunger Games, click on the below link:
That’s all for the recommendations for the best sci-fi books. I hope you find a science fiction book that sounds interesting. And don’t worry! They are worth all the hype they can get. You won’t be disappointed.
P.S.: Some books recommended here are available on Kindle Unlimited. If you have subscribed to it, you can read these books. Also, check out this article: Is Kindle Unlimited Worth It?
To conclude, here are the 15 best sci-fi books:
| 1 | The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams | Buy Now |
| 2 | Dark Matter by Blake Crouch | Buy Now |
| 3 | The Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells | Buy Now |
| 4 | The Machineries of Empire by Yoon Ha Lee | Buy Now |
| 5 | The Expanse Series by James S.A. Corey | Buy Now |
| 6 | Teixcalaan Duology by Arkady Martine | Buy Now |
| 7 | A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers | Buy Now |
| 8 | Lock In by John Scalzi | Buy Now |
| 9 | The Protectorate Series by Meghan E. O’Keefe | Buy Now |
| 10 | Andromeda Series by Michael Crichton | Buy Now |
| 11 | Children of Time by Adrian Tchaikovsky | Buy Now |
| 12 | Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton | Buy Now |
| 13 | Dune by Frank Herbert | Buy Now |
| 14 | The Interdependency Series by John Scalzi | Buy Now |
| 15 | The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins | Buy Now |
Read every book on this list. I am sure it won’t disappoint you.
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