Must-Read Books by Female Sci-Fi Authors

“Frankenstein,” written by the incredible Mary Shelley, is a classic that deserves a spot on every sci-fi fan’s bookshelf. It tells the tale of Victor Frankenstein, a brilliant scientist obsessed with creating life. He succeeds in animating a creature from dead body parts. However, the result is a horrifying monster that terrifies even its creator.

Rejected and alone, the creature seeks revenge on Victor and his loved ones. This groundbreaking novel, penned by a pioneering female sci-fi author, explores themes of ambition, responsibility, and the consequences of playing God. It’s a chilling and thought-provoking read that still resonates today.

Light from Uncommon Stars” by Ryka Aoki is a captivating blend of sci-fi and magical realism, showcasing a talented female author’s unique voice. Shizuka Satomi, a renowned violin teacher, harbors a dark secret: she’s made a deal with the devil. She must deliver seven talented violinists’ souls in exchange for her own.

However, when she encounters Katrina Nguyen, a young transgender runaway with a gift for the violin, Shizuka’s plans are thrown into disarray. As their lives intertwine with those of a former alien starship captain running a donut shop, they confront their pasts, their dreams, and the true meaning of belonging. This heartwarming and thought-provoking novel explores themes of identity, found family, and the enduring power of music and hope.

“The Daughter of Doctor Moreau” by Silvia Moreno-Garcia reimagines H.G. Wells’ classic sci-fi horror tale with a fresh, feminist perspective. Carlota Moreau lives a sheltered life on a remote island with her father, the enigmatic Dr. Moreau, and his creations, the hybrid beings known as the hybrids. However, when a charming visitor arrives, Carlota’s sheltered world begins to crumble.

She uncovers disturbing secrets about her father’s experiments and the true nature of the hybrids. As tensions rise and danger looms, Carlota must choose her own path and fight for the freedom of those she loves. This captivating novel explores themes of identity, autonomy, and the consequences of unchecked scientific ambition.

“This is How You Lose the Time War” by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone is a breathtaking sci-fi novel. It follows Red and Blue, agents from rival factions locked in a time-traveling war. Their mission is to manipulate history and secure victory. However, amidst the chaos, they begin exchanging letters.

This unexpected connection deepens, drawing Red and Blue closer despite their allegiances. Their forbidden love blossoms across time and space. It challenges their loyalties and blurs the lines between enemies and lovers. This lyrical novel celebrates human connection even in the face of impossible odds.

“Middlegame” by Seanan McGuire is a mind-bending sci-fi thriller that will leave you questioning the nature of reality. It follows twins Roger and Dodger, two extraordinary beings created by a mysterious alchemist known as the “Doctor.” They possess incredible powers, but they’re also pawns in his grand experiment.

As they grow up, Roger and Dodger discover their intertwined fates and the sinister forces manipulating them. They must unravel the secrets of their existence and make a choice: embrace their predetermined roles or forge their own path. This captivating novel blends science, magic, and a touch of the uncanny, creating an unforgettable reading experience.

“The Disasters” by M.K. England is a thrilling YA sci-fi adventure perfect for fans of found family and underdog stories. Hotshot pilot Nax Hall dreams of conquering the stars, but his dreams are crushed when he’s expelled from the elite Ellis Station Academy on his first day. However, Nax isn’t alone; he’s joined by three other misfits who also find themselves on the outs.

When a terrorist attack rocks the Academy, Nax and his newfound friends become the only witnesses. Framed for the crime, they must go on the run. Together, they embark on a daring mission to clear their names and expose the truth. This action-packed debut novel from a rising female sci-fi author will keep you turning the pages until the very end.

“Hench” by Natalie Zina Walschots is a clever and subversive superhero story from a talented female sci-fi author. It introduces us to Anna, a temp worker in the unusual field of supervillain support. She’s a “hench,” handling the mundane tasks that keep evil operations running smoothly.

However, when a superhero’s recklessness leaves her injured, Anna starts to question the whole hero/villain narrative. She turns her data analysis skills towards calculating the real cost of superheroics. Soon, she catches the attention of a powerful supervillain who offers her a chance to change the world. This darkly humorous and thought-provoking novel will make you rethink everything you know about superheroes and the sidekicks who keep them going.

“Binti” by Nnedi Okorafor is a captivating novella that seamlessly blends science fiction with Africanfuturism. It follows Binti, a young Himba woman who defies tradition to become the first of her people to attend Oomza University, a prestigious interstellar institution.

However, her journey is interrupted when her ship is attacked by the Meduse, a hostile alien race. Binti finds herself stranded and alone, forced to rely on her intelligence and cultural heritage to survive. This powerful story explores themes of identity, cultural preservation, and the search for harmony in a universe filled with conflict.

“Zeroboxer” by Fonda Lee throws you into a thrilling world of futuristic sports and political intrigue. Carr Luka is a rising star in the brutal sport of zeroboxing, where genetically engineered humans battle in zero gravity. He dreams of becoming the Interplanetary Champion, but fame comes with a price.

When Carr becomes a pawn in a dangerous game between Earth and Mars, he must choose between loyalty to his home planet and his own ambitions. This action-packed sci-fi novel explores themes of identity, sacrifice, and the fight for freedom, all against the backdrop of a high-stakes sporting event.

“The Time Traveler’s Wife” by Audrey Niffenegger is a captivating love story with a unique sci-fi twist. It follows Clare and Henry, a couple whose relationship is complicated by Henry’s uncontrollable time travel. He vanishes randomly and reappears at different points in his own life, leaving Clare to grapple with his unpredictable absences.

Despite the challenges, their love endures. They navigate the complexities of their extraordinary circumstances, facing heartbreak, joy, and the bittersweet reality of their unconventional relationship. This emotionally resonant novel, penned by a talented female author, explores themes of love, loss, and the enduring power of human connection across time.

The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet” by Becky Chambers is a heartwarming space opera that celebrates the power of found family and diverse voices in sci-fi. It follows the crew of the Wayfarer, a wormhole-building ship, as they travel across the galaxy. Rosemary Harper, a new addition to the crew, is eager to explore and find her place in this motley group.

As they journey to a distant planet to complete a lucrative contract, they encounter various alien cultures and face unexpected challenges. Along the way, they learn about themselves, each other, and the importance of acceptance and understanding. This feel-good sci-fi adventure, written by a talented female author, is a testament to the enduring power of hope and connection in a vast and sometimes lonely universe.

“Ancillary Justice” by Anne Leckie is a groundbreaking sci-fi novel that redefines the genre. It introduces Breq, the sole survivor of a once-mighty starship’s AI consciousness. Breq was once a vast, interconnected entity, controlling thousands of bodies. However, a catastrophic event left her with only one human body to navigate the galaxy.

Fueled by a thirst for vengeance, Breq embarks on a quest to expose a conspiracy that reaches the highest levels of power. This award-winning novel, written by a visionary female author, explores themes of identity, memory, and the nature of consciousness in a vast and complex universe.

Gideon the Ninth” by Tamsyn Muir is a hilarious and darkly captivating space opera with a gothic twist. Our main character, a sword-wielding badass and indentured servant to the Ninth House, dreams of escaping her dreary existence. However, her chance at freedom comes with a catch: she must become the cavalier to Harrowhark Nonagesimus, her childhood nemesis and a powerful necromancer.

Together, they travel to a decaying, haunted palace to compete in a deadly trial. They must navigate treacherous alliances, solve ancient mysteries, and confront their own complicated relationship. This novel, penned by a talented female author, is a fresh and exciting addition to the sci-fi genre, blending necromancy, swordplay, and dark humor in a truly unique way.

“Do You Dream of Terra-Two?” by Temi Oh is a thought-provoking sci-fi novel that explores the challenges of interstellar travel and the human spirit. A group of young astronauts embarks on a 23-year journey to colonize a distant Earth-like planet, Terra-Two. They’ve trained their whole lives for this mission, fueled by dreams of a better future.

However, the reality of life in space is harsh and isolating. The crew faces unexpected setbacks, personal conflicts, and the crushing weight of their mission’s importance. This captivating coming-of-age story, written by a talented female author, delves into themes of hope, sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of the unknown.

“The Left Hand of Darkness” by Ursula K. Le Guin is a groundbreaking sci-fi novel that explores gender and sexuality in a truly unique way. Genly Ai, an envoy from a galactic coalition, arrives on the planet Gethen, also known as Winter. The inhabitants of Gethen are ambisexual, with no fixed gender except during their brief periods of “kemmer.”

Genly struggles to understand this alien culture and its implications for diplomacy and human connection. As he navigates political intrigue and navigates treacherous landscapes, he forms a bond with Estraven, a disgraced Gethenian politician. This thought-provoking and beautifully written novel, penned by a legendary female author, challenges our assumptions about gender and sexuality, inviting us to consider the complexities of human interaction.

“The Fifth Season” by N. K. Jemisin is a groundbreaking sci-fi novel that plunges readers into a world on the brink of destruction. It’s set on a supercontinent called the Stillness, ravaged by catastrophic “Seasons” of environmental upheaval. In this harsh world, certain people called “orogenes” possess the power to control seismic forces.

However, orogenes are both feared and exploited for their abilities. The story follows three orogene women across different timelines, their lives intertwined by a shared struggle for survival and a search for belonging in a hostile world. Jemisin’s masterful storytelling and world-building challenge genre conventions and leave a lasting impact on readers.

“Goddess in the Machine” by Lora Beth Johnson is a captivating sci-fi adventure that blends ancient mythology with futuristic technology. Andra wakes up in a stasis pod after a thousand years, expecting to find a thriving colony. However, she’s stranded on a desolate planet with a crumbling civilization and a cryptic AI companion named Zhade.

To survive, Andra must navigate this unfamiliar world and unravel the mysteries of its past. She uncovers a connection to ancient Egyptian mythology and her own surprising role in the planet’s fate. This debut novel from a promising female sci-fi author offers a unique and imaginative journey through time and space.

“Kindred” by Octavia E. Butler is a groundbreaking work of sci-fi that masterfully blends historical fiction with time travel. Dana, a young Black woman living in 1970s California, is inexplicably pulled back in time to the antebellum South. She finds herself on a plantation, face-to-face with her ancestors: a white slave owner and a Black woman enslaved to him.

Dana’s forced to navigate this brutal reality, confronting the horrors of slavery firsthand. However, she’s also compelled to protect her ancestors, ensuring her own existence in the future. This powerful novel explores themes of race, identity, and the enduring legacy of slavery.

“All Systems Red” by Martha Wells introduces us to Murderbot, a snarky and self-aware security robot who secretly prefers watching soap operas to fulfilling its duties. It’s assigned to protect a group of scientists on a remote planet, but Murderbot just wants to be left alone with its entertainment.

However, when the team faces a deadly threat, Murderbot must step up and protect them. As it reluctantly engages in heroics, it starts to question its own programming and the true nature of its existence. This novella is a hilarious and action-packed adventure, and it’s the perfect introduction to Martha Wells’ acclaimed Murderbot Diaries series.

“Sister, Maiden, Monster” by Lucy A. Snyder is a visceral horror story set in a world ravaged by a devastating virus. This transformative disease twists its victims into nightmarish creatures, leaving humanity on the brink of collapse.

However, amidst the chaos, three women emerge with newfound powers. Erin, once quiet and reserved, develops a disturbing appetite. Savannah, a professional dominatrix, finds a horrifying new thrill. And Mareva, a mother desperate to protect her child, discovers a strength she never knew she possessed. This chilling novel, written by a Bram Stoker Award-winning author, explores themes of survival, transformation, and the monstrous nature lurking within us all.

“We Are Satellites” by Sarah Pinsker takes you to a near-future where a revolutionary new brain implant promises enhanced focus and productivity. The Pilot becomes wildly popular, transforming society and creating a divide between those who embrace the technology and those who resist it.

The story follows the Tanner family as they grapple with the implications of the Pilot. Each member faces their own challenges and choices, highlighting the complex ethical and social dilemmas posed by this technological advancement. This thought-provoking sci-fi novel, written by a talented female author, explores the impact of technology on our lives and the choices we make in the face of progress.

“Iron Widow” by Xiran Jay Zhao is a fierce and feminist sci-fi novel that reimagines history with giant mecha battles. In a futuristic world inspired by ancient China, teenage girls are forced to pilot giant robots alongside male partners. However, the system is brutally patriarchal, with the girls often dying in the process.

When 18-year-old Zetian volunteers to avenge her sister’s death, she shocks everyone by killing the male pilot responsible. Labeled an “Iron Widow,” she’s both feared and revered. Zetian’s defiance sparks a revolution against the deeply ingrained misogyny of her society. If you crave a thrilling story with a powerful female protagonist and a scathing critique of gender inequality, this book is a must-read.

“Winter’s Orbit” by Everina Maxwell is a captivating sci-fi romance set in a far-off galactic empire. Kiem, a minor royal, is unexpectedly thrust into a political marriage with the widowed Prince Jainan. This arranged union is supposed to strengthen alliances, but Kiem soon discovers that his new husband harbors a dark secret.

Jainan’s previous marriage ended tragically, and suspicion surrounds his involvement. As Kiem navigates the treacherous waters of court politics, he uncovers a conspiracy that threatens the stability of the empire. This heartwarming and suspenseful novel, penned by a talented female author, explores themes of love, loss, and the fight for truth in a world of political intrigue.

“A Memory Called Empire” by Arkady Martine introduces Mahit Dzmare, an ambassador from a small, independent station. She arrives at the heart of the vast Teixcalaanli Empire, ready to take on her new role. However, she soon discovers that her predecessor has died under mysterious circumstances.

Mahit must navigate the treacherous waters of imperial politics to uncover the truth. She faces cultural clashes, hidden technologies, and a looming threat to her own people. This captivating space opera, penned by a talented female author, will keep you on the edge of your seat with its blend of mystery, intrigue, and political maneuvering.

“Good Morning, Midnight” by Lily Brooks-Dalton is a haunting and atmospheric sci-fi novel that explores the depths of human loneliness. Augustine, an astronaut aboard a spaceship, embarks on a journey back to Earth after a long mission. However, upon arrival, he finds a planet eerily silent.

Meanwhile, on the frozen Arctic landscape, astronomer Augustine monitors the desolation, clinging to the hope of finding other survivors. As their paths intertwine, they confront the devastating aftermath of an unknown event. This evocative novel, written by a talented female author, delves into themes of isolation, hope, and the enduring human spirit in the face of unimaginable loss.