The Greatest "Science fiction, Space Opera, Fiction" Books Since 1970

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Science fiction

Science fiction is a genre of literature that explores the potential consequences of scientific and other innovations on society and individuals. It often features futuristic or imaginary settings, advanced technologies, and scientific concepts that are not yet fully understood or realized. Science fiction can encompass a wide range of themes, including space exploration, time travel, artificial intelligence, and alternate realities. It is a genre that allows authors to speculate on the future of humanity and the impact of scientific progress on our lives.

Space Opera

Space Opera is a subgenre of science fiction that emphasizes romantic, often melodramatic adventure, set mainly or entirely in outer space, usually involving conflict between opponents possessing advanced technologies and abilities. These narratives are characterized by their grand scale and dramatic stakes, focusing on epic battles, intricate politics, and explorations of futuristic societies. Unlike hard science fiction, which prioritizes scientific accuracy and technical detail, Space Opera leans towards the fantastical, with stories that feature heroic characters, expansive world-building, and complex, often morally ambiguous conflicts. This genre is akin to the swashbuckling tales of high adventure, transposed onto a cosmic backdrop, offering readers escapades among the stars, where the bounds of imagination are the only limits.

Fiction

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  1. 26. Blue Mars by Kim Stanley Robinson

    The novel concludes a trilogy that chronicles the colonization and terraforming of Mars, exploring the complex interactions between politics, science, and ecology in the process. As the Martian society stabilizes after a period of revolution and unrest, the inhabitants of the red planet grapple with the long-term implications of their transformation, both for their own society and their relationship with Earth. The narrative delves into the lives of the colonists who have become the first Martians, addressing themes of longevity, environmental responsibility, and the quest for a sustainable future for humanity across two worlds. With a backdrop of a vividly imagined Martian landscape, the story reflects on the human capacity for adaptation and the ethical dimensions of altering an entire planet's ecosystem.

    The 8113th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. Gideon The Ninth by Tamsyn Muir

    In a universe where necromancers hold power, Gideon, a skilled swordswoman, is reluctantly paired with her childhood rival, Harrow, to compete in a deadly trial that could grant them immortality. As they venture into an ancient, decaying mansion filled with secrets and puzzles, they must unravel the mysteries of their world and face sinister forces lurking within. With a blend of dark humor, complex characters, and a gripping plot, "Gideon The Ninth" is a thrilling and unique blend of science fiction and fantasy.

    The 8150th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. Heir To The Empire by Timothy Zahn

    Set five years after the fall of the Galactic Empire, the book follows the New Republic as it struggles to maintain peace in the galaxy. The remnants of the Empire, under the strategic command of Grand Admiral Thrawn, are regrouping and pose a new threat. Thrawn's tactical genius and his discovery of a hidden cache of Emperor Palpatine's warships give him the tools to challenge the New Republic. Meanwhile, Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Han Solo face personal challenges and the burden of leadership as they fight to protect the fledgling democracy from both external and internal turmoil. The story weaves a complex tapestry of intrigue, betrayal, and battles, setting the stage for a new chapter in the Star Wars saga.

    The 8201st Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 29. Downbelow Station by C. J. Cherryh

    Set in the midst of interstellar conflict, the novel unfolds against the backdrop of a space station that serves as a key strategic asset in the war between Earth and its far-flung colonial star systems. As the station, located above the planet Pell, becomes a refuge for people fleeing the war-torn sectors of space, tensions rise among the station's inhabitants, the Earth forces, and the various alien species seeking sanctuary. The station's leaders must navigate a complex web of political intrigue, shifting alliances, and ethical dilemmas to maintain order and ensure the survival of Pell's inhabitants, all while the specter of a larger cosmic battle looms overhead.

    The 8566th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 30. The Many Coloured Land by Julian May

    In a future where time travel is possible, a group of misfits from different eras are recruited to journey back to prehistoric Earth. As they navigate the dangers of this ancient world, they discover that they possess unique psychic abilities. With conflicts arising among themselves and encounters with other time-traveling factions, they must learn to harness their powers and survive the perils of the past. This captivating science fiction novel explores themes of identity, adventure, and the complexities of human relationships.

    The 8568th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 31. Mirror Dance by Lois McMaster Bujold

    In this science fiction novel, a young man with a desire to prove himself and find his place in the universe impersonates his clone brother, a high-ranking noble and military commander. His reckless attempt to undertake a mercenary mission goes disastrously wrong, leading to his capture and torture by enemies. Meanwhile, his brother must navigate political intrigue and familial bonds to rescue him. As they confront their shared past and uncertain future, the brothers grapple with questions of identity, loyalty, and redemption, set against the backdrop of a complex interstellar society.

    The 9601st Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 32. Chanur's Venture by C. J. Cherryh

    In this thrilling sequel set in a richly detailed universe, the story follows the captain of a merchant spaceship and her crew as they navigate the complexities of interstellar politics and trade. After rescuing a mysterious alien from another species, they find themselves in the midst of a dangerous political game. With the balance of power at stake, the crew must outwit various alien species with conflicting interests, all while ensuring the safety of their unexpected guest. The novel combines elements of adventure, diplomacy, and intrigue, showcasing the challenges of communication and understanding in a vast, multicultural galaxy.

    The 9715th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 33. Time Enough For Love by Robert A. Heinlein

    "Time Enough For Love" is a science fiction novel that follows the life of Lazarus Long, who has lived for over two thousand years due to his ability to rejuvenate his body. Through a series of interconnected stories, the book explores Lazarus' experiences, relationships, and philosophical musings on life, love, and the human condition. It delves into themes of immortality, sexuality, and the moral dilemmas that arise from living an extended life, while also presenting a captivating narrative filled with adventure and thought-provoking ideas.

    The 9845th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 34. Restaurant At The End Of The Universe by Douglas Adams

    "Restaurant At The End Of The Universe" is a humorous science fiction novel that follows the adventures of a group of eccentric characters as they travel through space and time. After narrowly escaping the destruction of Earth, the group finds themselves dining at the eponymous restaurant, which offers its patrons the unique opportunity to witness the end of the universe. Filled with witty dialogue, absurd situations, and thought-provoking concepts, the book is a satirical exploration of the meaning of life and the absurdity of the universe.

    The 10043rd Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 35. Ninefox Gambit by Yoon Ha Lee

    In a futuristic world, the empire relies on a rigid calendar system known as "The Hexarchate" to maintain control and suppress any dissent. When a rogue general stages a rebellion, a talented captain named Kel Cheris is chosen to quell the uprising. To achieve this, she must form an uneasy alliance with an undead tactician, Jedao, whose brilliance in warfare is matched only by his notorious treachery. As they navigate a treacherous battlefield filled with deceit, Kel must learn to trust Jedao's cunning strategies, even as she questions his true motives. With the fate of the empire hanging in the balance, Kel and Jedao embark on a high-stakes mission that will test their loyalties and reshape the very fabric of their world.

    The 10104th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 36. Life, The Universe And Everything by Douglas Adams

    In this comedic science fiction novel, the eccentric and hapless protagonist, along with his companions, embarks on a journey through time and space to prevent the end of the universe. Filled with absurdity, wit, and unexpected twists, the book explores deep philosophical questions while keeping readers entertained with its hilarious and imaginative storytelling.

    The 10109th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 37. 2010: Odyssey Two by Arthur C. Clarke

    "2010: Odyssey Two" by Arthur C. Clarke is a science fiction novel that follows a joint Soviet-American mission to investigate the mysterious events surrounding the spaceship Discovery One, which disappeared nine years earlier on its mission to Jupiter. As the crew embarks on their journey, they encounter strange occurrences and discover a hidden alien presence on Jupiter's moon, Europa. With tensions rising and the fate of humanity at stake, they must uncover the truth behind the monoliths and face the unimaginable consequences of their discoveries.

    The 10119th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 38. Battlefield Earth by L. Ron Hubbard

    In a post-apocalyptic Earth, humanity is enslaved by an alien race known as the Psychlos. One man, Jonnie Goodboy Tyler, rises up against his oppressors and becomes a symbol of hope for his fellow humans. With determination and ingenuity, Jonnie embarks on a daring mission to reclaim Earth and free his people from the clutches of the Psychlos. This epic tale explores themes of resilience, rebellion, and the power of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming odds.

    The 10121st Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 39. Abaddon's Gate by James S. A. Corey

    In this science fiction novel, humanity is faced with a new frontier when a mysterious alien artifact known as the Ring appears near the edge of the solar system. Various factions, including Earth's government, Martian military, and the Outer Planets Alliance, converge on the Ring, each with their own agendas. As tensions rise, a ragtag crew aboard a salvaged warship is thrust into the center of potential conflict. With the artifact acting as a gateway to unknown parts of the universe, the crew must navigate political intrigue, personal vendettas, and the very real possibility of first contact with an alien intelligence, all while trying to prevent an interstellar war that could end humanity's future before it has a chance to begin.

    The 10134th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 40. Take Back Plenty by Colin Greenland

    "Take Back Plenty" by Colin Greenland is a science fiction novel set in a future where humanity has colonized other planets. The story follows the adventures of Tabitha Jute, a tough and resourceful spaceship pilot, as she embarks on a dangerous mission to retrieve a mysterious artifact from a distant planet. Along the way, she encounters strange alien species, navigates treacherous space battles, and unravels a conspiracy that threatens the entire human race. With its thrilling plot, vivid world-building, and complex characters, "Take Back Plenty" is a captivating exploration of adventure, love, and the limits of human ambition in the vastness of space.

    The 10200th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 41. Excession by Iain Banks

    "Excession" is a science fiction novel set in a future where advanced artificial intelligences called Minds govern the galaxy. When an enigmatic and powerful alien artifact known as an Excession appears, it triggers a complex web of political intrigue and power struggles among the Minds and various factions. As the mystery surrounding the Excession unravels, the fate of the galaxy hangs in the balance, testing the limits of technology and the ethics of sentient beings.

    The 10233rd Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 42. Eon by Greg Bear

    In a future where humanity has achieved immortality through advanced technology, a young woman named Eon is chosen to be a part of an elite group tasked with exploring the mysteries of the universe. As she embarks on a dangerous journey to a distant planet, Eon discovers secrets that could change the course of human history. With stunning world-building and thought-provoking ideas, "Eon" is a gripping science fiction novel that delves into the complexities of identity, power, and the nature of existence.

    The 10240th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 43. Shards Of Honour by Lois McMaster Bujold

    "Shards of Honour" is a captivating science fiction novel that follows the story of Cordelia Naismith, a commander in the Betan Expeditionary Force. When her ship is attacked by a rival faction, Cordelia finds herself stranded on an alien planet, where she encounters Captain Aral Vorkosigan, a charismatic and enigmatic military leader. As they navigate the treacherous terrain and face unexpected dangers, Cordelia and Aral must confront their own personal demons while also uncovering a sinister plot that threatens the fragile peace between their two worlds. With its rich world-building, complex characters, and thrilling plot twists, this book is a must-read for fans of space opera and political intrigue.

    The 10247th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 44. The Warrior's Apprentice by Lois McMaster Bujold

    In "The Warrior's Apprentice," a young man named Miles Vorkosigan, who is born into a prestigious military family but suffers from physical disabilities, embarks on a journey to prove himself. When he inadvertently becomes the leader of a mercenary fleet, Miles must navigate through political intrigue, dangerous missions, and his own limitations to survive and achieve his goals. With wit, intelligence, and a unique perspective, Miles faces numerous challenges and learns valuable lessons about courage, loyalty, and the true meaning of being a warrior.

    The 10258th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 45. The Songs Of Distant Earth by Arthur C. Clarke

    "The Songs of Distant Earth" is a thought-provoking science fiction novel that explores the human race's struggle for survival in the face of an impending apocalypse. Set in a future where Earth is on the brink of destruction, the story follows a group of colonists who embark on a journey to a distant planet, hoping to preserve humanity. As they adapt to their new home and encounter the enigmatic inhabitants of the planet, the novel delves into themes of love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit. Through vivid descriptions and captivating storytelling, the book invites readers to reflect on the fragility of our existence and the potential for a brighter future.

    The 10265th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 46. The Stars Are Legion by Kameron Hurley

    "The Stars Are Legion" is a science fiction novel set in a universe comprised of living, organic worlds known as the Legion. The story follows Zan, a warrior with no memory of her past, as she navigates a treacherous landscape of warring factions and decaying civilizations. With the fate of the Legion at stake, Zan embarks on a dangerous mission to unlock the secrets of her identity and save her people from extinction. Filled with complex characters, vivid world-building, and a gripping plot, this book explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the power of choice in a unique and imaginative way.

    The 10278th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 47. Titan by John Varley

    "Titan" is a science fiction novel that follows the journey of a crew aboard a spacecraft sent to explore Saturn's moon, Titan. The mission takes an unexpected turn when they encounter a massive, wheel-shaped space station that orbits the moon, which they name "Gaea." Upon entering, the crew discovers a complex, living world filled with bizarre creatures and landscapes, governed by a mysterious entity that calls itself Gaea. As the crew members explore this strange environment, they must navigate the challenges of this alien ecosystem, as well as the interpersonal dynamics within their group, while trying to understand the nature of Gaea and find a way to survive and possibly communicate with this enigmatic intelligence.

    The 10305th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 48. The Player Of Games by Iain Banks

    "The Player of Games" is a science fiction novel set in a futuristic society where games hold immense cultural and political significance. The story follows a master game player who is chosen to represent his civilization in a complex and high-stakes game against an alien empire. As he navigates the intricate rules and strategies of the game, he becomes entangled in a web of political intrigue and discovers the true nature of the society he represents. With its exploration of power dynamics, identity, and the human need for competition, the novel offers a thought-provoking examination of the complexities of society and the games we play.

    The 10308th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 49. The Rowan by Anne McCaffrey

    "The Rowan" is a science fiction novel set in a future where telekinesis is a common ability. The story follows a young girl named The Rowan, who possesses an extraordinary level of telekinetic power. She is discovered by a powerful organization called the Talent, who train her to use her abilities to protect humanity from dangerous space phenomena. As The Rowan grows older, she becomes a respected leader within the Talent and faces numerous challenges, both personal and professional, as she navigates her role in saving the human race.

    The 10353rd Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 50. The Integral Trees by Larry Niven

    In a distant future, humans inhabit a gas torus, a ring of breathable atmosphere around a neutron star, where they have adapted to life in free fall within this unique environment. The story follows a group of these humans who live among the "Integral Trees," gigantic, sky-spanning plants with their roots and branches extending in both directions away from a central trunk, in zero gravity. When the ruling order on one of the trees begins to falter, a small band of intrepid characters embarks on a journey that reveals the complex ecosystem of the torus and the intricate society that has evolved there. As they navigate the challenges of their three-dimensional world, they uncover secrets that could change their society forever, exploring themes of adaptation, survival, and the human spirit's unyielding drive to explore and understand its surroundings.

    The 10383rd Greatest Book of All Time

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