In the realm of science fiction, few books capture the imagination quite like A Memory Called Empire by Arkady Martine. This novel weaves a rich tapestry of political intrigue, cultural exploration, and personal identity. If you found yourself captivated by its world-building and narrative depth, here are 18 other books that might just hit the same sweet spot.
Books Similar to A Memory Called Empire
1. The Expanse Series by James S.A. Corey
The Expanse series is a must-read for fans of space opera and political drama. Set in a future where humanity has colonized the solar system, it follows a disparate group of characters as they navigate interplanetary tensions and uncover deep-seated conspiracies. Its intricate plotting and well-rounded characters make it an excellent follow-up to A Memory Called Empire.
2. Dune by Frank Herbert
Frank Herbert’s Dune is a cornerstone of the science fiction genre. It explores themes of power, religion, and ecology on the desert planet of Arrakis. The complex political landscape and rich world-building will resonate with fans of A Memory Called Empire.
3. Ancillary Justice by Ann Leckie
Ancillary Justice introduces readers to Breq, the last remaining fragment of a starship AI. This novel delves into themes of identity, consciousness, and empire, making it a compelling read for those who enjoyed the intellectual depth of A Memory Called Empire.
4. The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin
Ursula K. Le Guin’s The Left Hand of Darkness is a seminal work that explores gender and society on the planet Gethen. Its thought-provoking narrative and cultural insights make it a perfect companion to Martine’s work.
5. The Three-Body Problem by Liu Cixin
This Chinese science fiction novel by Liu Cixin delves into first contact with an alien civilization. Its complex scientific theories and political undertones will appeal to those who appreciated the intricate world-building in A Memory Called Empire.
6. Hyperion by Dan Simmons
Hyperion is a richly layered narrative featuring seven pilgrims on a journey to the distant world of Hyperion. Its storytelling structure and deep philosophical questions make it a compelling read for fans of Martine’s novel.
7. Foundation by Isaac Asimov
Isaac Asimov’s Foundation series explores the rise and fall of civilizations through the lens of “psychohistory.” Its grand scope and intricate plotting are sure to captivate those who enjoyed the political intricacies of A Memory Called Empire.
8. The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers
This novel offers a more character-driven approach to space opera, focusing on the crew of the Wayfarer as they navigate the complexities of interstellar life. Its emphasis on relationships and diverse cultures makes it a heartwarming read for fans of Martine’s character development.
9. Leviathan Wakes by James S.A. Corey
The first book in The Expanse series, Leviathan Wakes, sets the stage for an epic tale of political intrigue and cosmic mystery. Its fast-paced narrative and well-crafted universe make it a thrilling read for anyone who enjoyed A Memory Called Empire.
10. Ninefox Gambit by Yoon Ha Lee
Ninefox Gambit introduces readers to a universe where mathematics and warfare are intertwined. The novel’s complex world-building and strategic depth make it a fascinating read for fans of Martine’s intricate storytelling.
11. The Dispossessed by Ursula K. Le Guin
Another masterpiece by Ursula K. Le Guin, The Dispossessed explores the duality of two contrasting societies. Its philosophical depth and exploration of utopian ideals will resonate with readers who appreciated the cultural nuances in A Memory Called Empire.
12. The Player of Games by Iain M. Banks
In The Player of Games, Iain M. Banks takes readers into the world of the Culture, a post-scarcity society. The novel’s focus on games and strategy, along with its rich world-building, makes it a compelling read for fans of Martine’s political intrigue.
13. Snow Crash by Neal Stephenson
Neal Stephenson’s Snow Crash is a cyberpunk classic that explores the intersections of technology, culture, and identity. Its fast-paced narrative and thought-provoking themes make it a must-read for fans of Martine’s intellectual depth.
14. Altered Carbon by Richard K. Morgan
Altered Carbon delves into a future where consciousness can be transferred between bodies. Its noir-inspired narrative and exploration of identity and mortality make it a gripping read for those who enjoyed the philosophical aspects of A Memory Called Empire.
15. The Windup Girl by Paolo Bacigalupi
Set in a future plagued by environmental collapse, The Windup Girl explores themes of bioengineering and corporate power. Its richly detailed world and complex characters make it a compelling read for fans of Martine’s world-building.
16. The Stars Are Legion by Kameron Hurley
Kameron Hurley’s The Stars Are Legion is a dark, feminist space opera that delves into themes of power and survival. Its unique setting and strong female characters make it a gripping read for those who enjoyed the cultural depth of A Memory Called Empire.
17. Children of Time by Adrian Tchaikovsky
Children of Time explores the rise of a new civilization on a distant planet. Its intricate narrative and exploration of evolution and intelligence make it a fascinating read for fans of Martine’s intellectual depth.
18. The Collapsing Empire by John Scalzi
John Scalzi’s The Collapsing Empire introduces readers to a universe on the brink of disaster. Its fast-paced narrative and political intrigue make it a thrilling read for those who enjoyed the high stakes in A Memory Called Empire.