The Best Military Sci-Fi Books to Fuel Your Love for Epic Battles

“Leviathan Wakes” by James S.A. Corey is a thrilling military sci-fi novel that kicks off the Expanse series. In a colonized solar system, tensions rise between Earth, Mars, and the Belt. Holden, an ice hauler’s executive officer, stumbles upon a derelict ship with a dangerous secret.

This discovery throws Holden and his crew into a galaxy-spanning conspiracy. Simultaneously, Detective Miller on Ceres Station investigates a missing woman. Their paths converge, unraveling a plot that could reshape humanity’s future. This book delivers action, intrigue, and complex characters, perfect for military sci-fi fans.

“Armor” by John Steakley is a gritty military sci-fi book that delves into the psychological toll of war. It follows Felix, a soldier equipped with advanced powered armor, as he battles an insectoid alien race on a hostile planet. The battles are brutal, and the odds are stacked against humanity.

However, the true enemy lies not just on the battlefield but within Felix’s own mind. He struggles with the horrors he witnesses, grappling with fear, PTSD, and the dehumanizing nature of war. If you’re looking for military sci-fi that goes beyond the explosions and focuses on the human cost of conflict, “Armor” is a must-read.

“The Forever War” by Joe Haldeman is a classic military sci-fi novel that explores the harsh realities of interstellar warfare. William Mandella, a young soldier, is drafted into an elite fighting force to battle an alien race known as the Taurans. However, the vast distances of space and the effects of time dilation create a unique challenge.

Each time Mandella returns from battle, centuries have passed on Earth. He struggles to reconnect with a society that has become unrecognizable. This thought-provoking novel delves into the psychological and emotional toll of war, highlighting the disorientation and alienation experienced by soldiers returning home to a changed world. If you’re looking for a military sci-fi book that goes beyond the battles and explores the human cost of conflict, “The Forever War” is a must-read.

“Altered Carbon” by Richard K. Morgan is a cyberpunk military sci-fi novel set in a future where consciousness can be transferred between bodies. Takeshi Kovacs, a former soldier, is resurrected centuries after his death to investigate the murder of a wealthy man.

However, Kovacs soon discovers a vast conspiracy reaching the top of society. This gritty novel explores the implications of immortality and the lengths people will go to retain power in a world where death is no longer the end.

“Unconquerable Sun” by Kate Elliot is a captivating military sci-fi novel inspired by the legendary Alexander the Great. Princess Sun, heir to a powerful queen-marshal, yearns to prove her worth on the battlefield. She’s a skilled strategist and a fearless leader, but she struggles to escape her mother’s shadow.

When the Phene Empire threatens their borders, Sun and her loyal companions must rise to the challenge. They face political intrigue, treacherous alliances, and epic space battles that will test their courage and determination. This thrilling novel is perfect for fans of military sci-fi who crave action, strategy, and a touch of historical reimagining.

“The Cruel Stars” by John Birmingham thrusts you into a galaxy-spanning war where humanity faces a ruthless enemy: the Sturm, a group of “species purists” determined to eradicate anyone with genetic or cybernetic enhancements. In a devastating first strike, the Sturm cripple the human empire, leaving scattered pockets of resistance.

However, hope flickers in the darkness. A ragtag group of unlikely heroes – a disgraced commander, a grizzled admiral, a cunning pirate, a young princess, and a mysterious cyborg – unite to fight back. They’ll face overwhelming odds and make heart-wrenching sacrifices in their desperate bid to save humanity. If you crave epic space battles, daring missions, and characters who defy expectations, this military sci-fi novel will keep you hooked from start to finish.

“Old Man’s War” by John Scalzi is a thrilling military sci-fi adventure that explores the concept of second chances. On his 75th birthday, John Perry enlists in the Colonial Defense Forces. He leaves behind a life of retirement on Earth, trading it for a new, genetically enhanced body and the promise of a fresh start on a distant colony.

However, the reality of interstellar warfare is brutal and unforgiving. Perry and his fellow recruits face off against alien threats, pushing the boundaries of human capability. This action-packed novel combines military tactics with futuristic technology, creating a captivating story of courage, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of humanity.

“Aurora Rising” by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff is a YA sci-fi adventure filled with humor, heart, and thrilling space battles. It follows a squad of misfit cadets who stumble upon a mysterious girl frozen in stasis for two centuries. They rescue her, only to discover she’s connected to a dangerous ancient power.

Now, the crew of the Aurora Legion must protect their new passenger while facing threats from across the galaxy. They’ll navigate treacherous missions, uncover hidden conspiracies, and discover the true meaning of loyalty and friendship. If you enjoy a fast-paced, character-driven story with plenty of action and a touch of romance, this military sci-fi book is a perfect pick.

A Fire Upon the Deep” by Vernor Vinge is a mind-bending space opera that spans galaxies and explores the vastness of the universe. In a far future where different zones of space have varying levels of technological advancement, a powerful and ancient evil awakens. It threatens to consume everything in its path.

A group of scientists on a remote planet inadvertently unleash this destructive force. Now, a diverse cast of characters must band together to stop it. They race across the galaxy, facing alien civilizations, ancient technologies, and the terrifying power of the Blight. This Hugo Award-winning novel is a must-read for fans of grand-scale military sci-fi and epic battles against cosmic threats.

“In Our Stars” by Jack Campbell is a pulse-pounding military sci-fi adventure with a time-twisting premise. The year was 2180; Lieutenant Selene Genji witnessed the devastating destruction of Earth. But then, a shockwave hurls her forty years into the past, giving her a chance to prevent the catastrophe.

Back in 2140, she encounters Lieutenant Kayl Owen, who helps her evade authorities suspicious of her genetically-engineered heritage. Together, they race against time to alter history and save Earth. However, their actions could erase Genji’s very existence. This thrilling novel explores the complexities of time travel, sacrifice, and the fight for a future worth saving.

“The Forsaken Planet” by Bryan Wilson is a self-published gem that blends military sci-fi with epic fantasy elements. When Earth is attacked by a ruthless alien fleet, ordinary college student Colton Samson discovers he possesses a hidden power – the ability to wield the same energy force as the invaders.

Haunted by loss, Colton vows to protect his loved ones. He joins the Army of the Universal Throne, a powerful force with its own agenda. But Colton soon learns he’s entangled in a prophecy foretelling humanity’s demise. With a universal war looming, Colton must embrace his newfound abilities and fight for the survival of his people.

“Terminal Alliance” by Jim C. Hines is a hilarious military sci-fi adventure that flips the script on traditional heroes. Aliens arrive on Earth with an invitation to join a galactic alliance, but they find a post-apocalyptic wasteland instead. A century later, humans are still struggling to rebuild, but at least they’ve mostly stopped trying to eat each other.

Enter Marion “Mops” Adamopoulos, a lieutenant in charge of the spaceship’s janitorial crew. When a bioweapon attack turns everyone feral, Mops and her team become the unlikely heroes. They’re not exactly trained for this, but they’re determined to save the day. If you enjoy witty humor, quirky characters, and a healthy dose of absurdity, this book is a must-read.

“Skyward” by Brandon Sanderson, renowned for his expansive Cosmere universe, offers a thrilling YA military sci-fi adventure. It follows Spensa, a young woman living on a desolate planet under constant threat from alien attacks. She dreams of becoming a pilot and fighting back, but she’s considered an outcast due to her father’s alleged cowardice.

However, Spensa’s discovery of an ancient starfighter gives her a chance to prove herself. She joins a ragtag group of pilots and faces the challenges of a cutthroat flight school. With fast-paced action, witty dialogue, and a touch of mystery, “Skyward” will leave you wanting more.

“The Last Watch” by J.S. Dewes is a thrilling military sci-fi adventure that takes place at the edge of the universe. The Divide, a mysterious barrier, separates humanity from a hostile alien force. The Sentinels, a ragtag group of soldiers, are stationed at the Divide to guard against any incursions.

However, when a long-lost ship reappears with a dire warning, the Sentinels face a threat they never anticipated. They must race against time to decipher the message and protect the galaxy from an impending invasion. This action-packed novel is full of suspense, twists, and unforgettable characters.

“Velocity Weapon” by Megan E. O’Keefe launches you into a thrilling space opera filled with action, mystery, and sibling bonds. Sanda Greeve wakes up on a deserted spaceship, alone and with no memory of the past few years. She soon discovers her brother, Biran, is missing and presumed dead.

Determined to find him, Sanda embarks on a quest across the galaxy. She uncovers a conspiracy that threatens to tear her family apart and ignite a war between empires. This fast-paced novel is perfect for fans of military sci-fi who crave thrilling space battles, complex characters, and a dash of political intrigue.

The Worst Ship in the Fleet” by Skyler Ramirez is a fun and action-packed military sci-fi adventure. It follows Brad Mendoza, a lieutenant who’s made some major blunders in his career. He’s basically been demoted to the Persephone, a ship with a reputation for being cursed.

But things take a turn when he meets his new executive officer, Jessica Lin, who’s got her own secrets. And just when things couldn’t get more complicated, a massive enemy warship sets its sights on them. Brad’s got to figure out how to save Jessica and his “stupid ship.” This book is full of twists, turns, and laugh-out-loud humor. If you’re looking for a lighthearted space opera with a lovable underdog protagonist, you’ll want to check it out.

“Dauntless” by Jack Campbell is a classic military sci-fi novel that’ll keep you turning the pages. The Alliance is losing a century-long war against the Syndics, their fleet stranded in enemy territory. Their only hope? A man named John “Black Jack” Geary, a legendary captain who’s been in hibernation for a century.

Geary reluctantly takes command, determined to lead the fleet to safety and deliver a crucial hypernet key. But he’s haunted by his own mythologized past and the immense pressure to live up to the legend. This is a thrilling story of leadership, sacrifice, and the challenges of navigating a war that’s lasted longer than anyone can remember.

“Artifact Space” by Miles Cameron is a thrilling military sci-fi adventure set in the vastness of space. Massive spaceships, known as Greatships, transport valuable cargo across the galaxy. Marca Nbaro, a young woman with a troubled past, dreams of escaping her life and joining a Greatship crew. She finally achieves her goal, but her past isn’t so easily left behind.

When the Greatships come under attack by a mysterious force, Marca finds herself in the middle of a dangerous conspiracy. She must use all her skills and cunning to survive and uncover the truth. This action-packed space opera is perfect for fans of epic battles, political intrigue, and characters who defy expectations.