C. J. Cherryh

C. J. Cherryh is an American author known for her prolific work in science fiction and fantasy. Born on September 1, 1942, as Carolyn Janice Cherry, she has written more than 80 books, including the well-known 'Foreigner' series, the 'Alliance-Union' universe, and the 'Chanur' novels. Cherryh has received several awards for her writing, including the Hugo Award for Best Novel. Her work is characterized by detailed world-building, complex cultural and political systems, and deep character development.

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. 1. Cyteen

    Cover of 'Cyteen' by C. J. Cherryh

    The book is a complex tale of political intrigue, identity, and psychological manipulation set in a distant future where humanity has colonized space. At the heart of the story is a brilliant young scientist who is a clone of a powerful political leader, raised to replicate her predecessor's talents and maintain her faction's dominance. As the clone grows up in a controlled environment designed to shape her into a replica of the original, she begins to question her identity and the motives of those who created her. The narrative explores themes of nature versus nurture, the ethics of cloning, and the struggle for power within the labyrinthine structures of a spacefaring civilization's government and scientific community.

    The 7786th Greatest Book of All Time

  2. 2. Downbelow Station

    Cover of '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 8537th Greatest Book of All Time

  3. 3. Chanur's Venture

    Cover of '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 9678th Greatest Book of All Time

  4. 4. Foreigner

    Cover of 'Foreigner' by C. J. Cherryh

    In "Foreigner" by C. J. Cherryh, the story follows the protagonist, a human diplomat named Bren Cameron, who is assigned to be the sole intermediary between a human colony and an alien species known as the atevi. As Bren navigates the complex cultural differences and political tensions, he must carefully balance his loyalty to both species, all while uncovering the mysteries surrounding the atevi and their intentions. This thrilling science fiction novel explores themes of diplomacy, trust, and the challenges of understanding the "other" in a foreign world.

    The 10403rd Greatest Book of All Time