The 2020s have been a golden era for science fiction literature, with authors pushing the genre into bold new territories. From mind-bending space operas to groundbreaking LGBTQ+ narratives, these books have captivated readers and critics alike. Here are the best sci-fi novels of the decade so far, ranked.
10. Children of Memory (2022)
Adrian Tchaikovsky's Children of Memory is the stunning conclusion to his Hugo Award-winning series. In this space opera, a multispecies crew discovers a struggling human colony on a desolate planet, leading to a story that spans generations and galaxies. Tchaikovsky masterfully weaves themes of consciousness, identity, and memory into a nonlinear narrative that challenges the conventions of the genre. It's a philosophical epic that solidifies his place as one of sci-fi's leading voices.
9. Some Desperate Glory (2023)
Emily Tesh's Some Desperate Glory is a Hugo Award-winning queer sci-fi novel that subverts the space opera trope. The story follows a young soldier training to avenge Earth's destruction, but it quickly becomes a sharp critique of fascism and AI. Tesh's protagonist is morally grey, and the narrative is both action-packed and politically charged. It's a must-read for fans of redemption arcs and thought-provoking sci-fi.
8. Eversion (2022)
Alastair Reynolds' Eversion is a mind-bending mystery that deserves more attention. The protagonist finds himself as a physician on different expeditions across various decades, trying to unravel the mystery of his repeated existences. Reynolds delivers a tightly paced, existential thriller that keeps readers questioning reality. It's a perfect pick for those who love sci-fi that lingers long after the final page.
7. Nona the Ninth (2022)
Tamsyn Muir's Nona the Ninth is the third installment in The Locked Tomb series, and it's a standout. The titular character, an amnesiac, yearns for a normal life as an apocalyptic war rages around her. Muir's hopeful tone and tender prose offer a refreshing contrast to the darker elements of the series. It's a beautiful, character-driven story that will appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers.
6. The Kaiju Preservation Society (2022)
John Scalzi's The Kaiju Preservation Society is a Locus Award-winning romp that's pure entertainment. The plot follows a food delivery driver who joins a secret organization protecting kaiju in a parallel universe. Scalzi's fast-paced, witty writing makes this a delightful read for anyone seeking a lighter sci-fi adventure. It's not deep, but it's irresistibly fun.
5. Project Hail Mary (2021)
Andy Weir's Project Hail Mary is a genre-defining bestseller that became a Hollywood sensation. The story of a lone astronaut waking up with amnesia on a spaceship, tasked with saving humanity, is both thrilling and heartfelt. Weir's scientific accuracy and humor make it a standout. It's a must-read for fans of sci-fi films and novels alike.
4. Alien Clay (2024)
Adrian Tchaikovsky returns with Alien Clay, a novel that blends biological horror with political intrigue. Set on a prison planet where the environment itself is alien, the story follows a dissident scientist trying to survive. Tchaikovsky's world-building is impeccable, and the themes of oppression and adaptation resonate deeply. It's a gripping read that cements his reputation as a master of the genre.
3. The Space Between Worlds (2020)
Micaiah Johnson's The Space Between Worlds is a debut that explores multiverse travel with a social conscience. The protagonist, Cara, is one of the few who can traverse parallel Earths, but only to worlds where her counterpart is dead. Johnson uses this premise to examine class, identity, and survival. It's a smart, character-driven sci-fi that stands out in a crowded field.
2. A Memory Called Empire (2020)
Arkady Martine's A Memory Called Empire won the Hugo Award for Best Novel and for good reason. It's a political space opera that follows an ambassador from a small station to the vast Teixcalaanli Empire. Martine's world-building is intricate, and the story is a tense, intelligent exploration of diplomacy and identity. It's a modern classic that every sci-fi fan should read.
1. The Locked Tomb Series (2019-2022)
While Gideon the Ninth kicked off the series in 2019, the 2020s saw the release of Harrow the Ninth and Nona the Ninth, cementing Tamsyn Muir's saga as the defining sci-fi work of the decade. The series blends necromancy, lesbian romance, and locked-room mystery in a way that's utterly unique. It's a polarizing but brilliant achievement that has redefined what sci-fi can be.
These books represent the best of what the 2020s have offered in science fiction. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the genre, these titles are essential reading. For more great sci-fi, check out our list of best-plotted thrillers or explore the latest Alien film news.
