Michael Swanwick
Michael Swanwick is an American science fiction and fantasy writer. He has received numerous awards, including the Hugo, Nebula, and Theodore Sturgeon Awards for his work in short stories, novels, and criticism. His notable works include 'Stations of the Tide,' 'The Iron Dragon's Daughter,' and 'Bones of the Earth.' Swanwick's writing is known for its complex characters, intricate plots, and imaginative world-building.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
-
1. The Iron Dragon's Daughter
This novel weaves a dark and complex tale set in a world where faerie and technology intertwine. It follows the story of Jane, a human girl enslaved in a factory that produces iron dragons, war machines used to maintain power within this fantastical realm. Her journey of escape and quest for identity is fraught with challenges, betrayals, and the harsh realities of a society built on exploitation and magic. As Jane forms alliances with various characters, including a seductive dragon, she navigates through a series of life-changing adventures that question the nature of freedom, the price of ambition, and the essence of humanity itself. This narrative masterfully blends elements of fantasy, science fiction, and dark folklore to explore themes of industrialization, social injustice, and personal transformation.
The 10048th Greatest Book of All Time -
2. Stations of the Tide
In this science fiction novel, a bureaucrat from a distant future Earth arrives on a planet that is about to be submerged by a once-in-a-generation tidal flood. His mission is to track down a rogue magician who is suspected of stealing a powerful piece of technology. As the bureaucrat navigates the planet's exotic and dangerous landscape, he encounters various enigmatic characters and delves into the complex relationship between advanced technology and the nature of reality. The story weaves together elements of mystery, political intrigue, and surreal encounters, culminating in a confrontation that challenges the protagonist's understanding of his world and his place within it.
The 10828th Greatest Book of All Time
