Science fiction fans who loved The Expanse series are always on the lookout for their next great read. This genre, known for its imaginative and futuristic storytelling, has a wealth of novels that can satisfy your craving for epic space adventures, complex characters, and intricate plots. Here are 20 books that are sure to captivate any fan of The Expanse.
Books Similar to Best Sci Fi the Expanse
1. Dune by Frank Herbert
Dune is a science fiction classic that explores themes of politics, religion, and ecology on the desert planet of Arrakis. The story follows Paul Atreides as he navigates a complex web of intrigue and power struggles. This book is highly recommended for its rich world-building and deep philosophical questions.
2. Leviathan Wakes by James S.A. Corey
The first book in The Expanse series, Leviathan Wakes, sets the stage for an epic tale of interstellar conflict and human drama. It introduces us to the crew of the Rocinante and the political tensions between Earth, Mars, and the Belt. If you haven’t started this series yet, it’s a must-read.
3. Hyperion by Dan Simmons
Hyperion is a novel that weaves together the stories of seven pilgrims on a journey to the distant world of Hyperion. Each character’s tale is a piece of a larger puzzle, creating a richly layered narrative. This book is perfect for readers who enjoy complex storytelling and deep, philosophical themes.
4. Foundation by Isaac Asimov
Foundation is the first book in Asimov’s seminal series that explores the rise and fall of civilizations. The story follows mathematician Hari Seldon and his efforts to preserve knowledge through the establishment of the Foundation. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in the grand scale of galactic history.
5. The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin
This novel explores themes of gender and society through the story of an envoy to the planet Gethen, where inhabitants can change their sex. Le Guin’s masterful storytelling and thought-provoking concepts make this a standout in the genre. It’s recommended for its unique take on human relationships and societal norms.
6. Neuromancer by William Gibson
Neuromancer is a cyberpunk classic that delves into the world of hacking, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality. The story follows Case, a washed-up computer hacker hired for one last job. Gibson’s visionary work is essential reading for fans of high-tech, dystopian futures.
7. Snow Crash by Neal Stephenson
In Snow Crash, Stephenson imagines a future where the internet has evolved into the Metaverse, a virtual reality space. The protagonist, Hiro Protagonist, is a hacker and pizza delivery driver who uncovers a conspiracy involving a new drug called Snow Crash. It’s a highly recommended read for its fast-paced action and inventive world-building.
8. Altered Carbon by Richard K. Morgan
Altered Carbon is set in a future where consciousness can be transferred between bodies, effectively making humans immortal. The story follows Takeshi Kovacs, a former soldier turned private investigator, as he unravels a complex murder mystery. Fans of gritty, noir-style science fiction will find this book compelling.
9. The Three-Body Problem by Liu Cixin
This novel, the first in a trilogy, explores humanity’s first contact with an alien civilization. The story begins during China’s Cultural Revolution and spans across time and space. Liu Cixin’s work is praised for its scientific accuracy and imaginative scope, making it a must-read for hard science fiction enthusiasts.
10. Old Man’s War by John Scalzi
Old Man’s War follows John Perry, who joins the Colonial Defense Forces on his 75th birthday. The novel explores themes of aging, identity, and the ethics of war in a future where elderly recruits are given young, enhanced bodies. Scalzi’s blend of action, humor, and thought-provoking questions makes this a highly recommended read.
11. Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card
Ender’s Game tells the story of a young boy, Ender Wiggin, who is recruited into a military academy to prepare for an impending alien invasion. The novel explores themes of leadership, morality, and the cost of war. It’s a classic that continues to resonate with readers of all ages.
12. The Stars My Destination by Alfred Bester
This novel follows Gully Foyle, a man driven by revenge after being left to die in space. Bester’s innovative narrative techniques and fast-paced plot make this a standout in the genre. It’s recommended for readers who enjoy psychological depth and intense action.
13. The Forever War by Joe Haldeman
The Forever War is a military science fiction novel that examines the effects of time dilation on soldiers fighting an interstellar war. Haldeman’s own experiences in the Vietnam War lend authenticity to the story’s exploration of the futility and trauma of conflict. It’s a poignant and powerful read.
14. Ringworld by Larry Niven
Ringworld introduces readers to a massive artificial ring orbiting a distant star, inhabited by various alien species. The novel follows a group of explorers as they investigate this mysterious structure. Niven’s imaginative creation and detailed world-building make this a must-read for fans of classic science fiction.
15. The Moon is a Harsh Mistress by Robert A. Heinlein
This novel tells the story of a lunar colony’s revolt against Earth’s government. Heinlein explores themes of self-determination, individualism, and the nature of freedom. It’s a highly recommended read for its engaging plot and thought-provoking ideas.
16. Red Mars by Kim Stanley Robinson
Red Mars is the first book in a trilogy that chronicles the colonization and terraforming of Mars. Robinson’s detailed and realistic portrayal of the scientific and political challenges involved makes this a compelling read. It’s perfect for those who appreciate hard science fiction with a focus on environmental and social issues.
17. The Martian by Andy Weir
The Martian follows astronaut Mark Watney as he struggles to survive after being stranded on Mars. Weir’s meticulous attention to scientific detail and the protagonist’s witty, resourceful nature make this a gripping and entertaining read. It’s a must-read for fans of survival stories and space exploration.
18. 2001: A Space Odyssey by Arthur C. Clarke
This novel, developed concurrently with the iconic film, explores humanity’s encounters with mysterious monoliths that appear to guide human evolution. Clarke’s visionary storytelling and profound philosophical questions make this a cornerstone of science fiction literature. It’s highly recommended for its timeless exploration of human potential and the unknown.
19. Altered Starscape by Ian Douglas
Altered Starscape is the first book in the Andromedan Dark series, which follows humanity’s exploration of the Andromeda Galaxy. The novel combines military science fiction with deep space adventure, making it a thrilling read for fans of interstellar conflict and exploration. Douglas’s detailed world-building and action-packed plot ensure an engaging experience.
20. A Fire Upon the Deep by Vernor Vinge
This novel takes place in a universe where different regions of space have varying levels of technological sophistication. The story follows a group of humans who inadvertently unleash an ancient superintelligence. Vinge’s imaginative setting and intricate plot make this a must-read for fans of epic, galaxy-spanning science fiction.