Sci-Fi Book Recommendations for Fantasy Readers

The Fifth Season by NK Jemisin

The Fifth Season is not only one of my favorite sci-fi books but one of my favorite books of all time. It truly blurs the line between science and fantasy.

The Fifth Season is a dark and gripping sci-fantasy blend set in a world plagued by catastrophic natural disasters. Follow three interconnected women as they navigate a treacherous landscape of political intrigue and the destructive power of nature itself. Jemisin’s masterful storytelling creates a compelling tale of survival and resilience in a hauntingly dark setting.

The Rave by J.R. Traas

The Rave by J.R. Traas is a self-published sci-fantasy cyberpunk novel, perfect for fantasy readers looking to explore the world of science fiction. Set in the futuristic world of El, it follows Alina K’vich, a young Aelfraver trained to hunt arcane beasts. When her grandfather disappears, leaving her with debts, Alina takes on a risky Rave in the floating Capital of New El. With a sinister force threatening the city, she must rely on her skills and magic to save herself and her world. This action-packed adventure is a must-read for fans of both fantasy and sci-fi genres.

Advent 9 by T. Alan Horne

Another of my top sci-fi book recommendations for fantasy readers is also perfect for fans of the superhero genre.

Advent 9 is a self-published superhero book with a neurodiverse protagonist. In a world where superheroes have disappeared, one child must uncover the secrets of his mind to save the world. This thrilling tale is a must-read for fans of the superhero genre, especially those who enjoy diverse and compelling characters.

With a blend of fantastical elements, science, and superheroes, this book is perfect for you to pick up and start your sci-fi journey.

Leviathan Wakes by James S.A. Corey

This next is perfect for fantasy readers because not only does it have immersive worldbuilding and a diverse cast, but it also is a long book series, which is something fantasy readers know well.

Leviathan Wakes is a gripping science fiction thriller about a crew who uncovers a dangerous secret that jeopardizes their lives. The book was so popular that it was adapted into a hit TV show. If you’re a science fiction or thrillers fan, you need to read Leviathan Wakes.

Red Rising by Pierce Brown

Popular YA sci-fi series Red Rising is perfect for fantasy readers due to its familiar feeling themes and tropes.

Red Rising is a gripping sci-fi dystopian novel about a young miner who infiltrates the ruling class to spark a rebellion. The book explores themes of power, class, loyalty, and resilience, immersing readers in a richly imagined world of intense conflicts.

The Disasters by MK England

This fast-paced sci-fi standalone is a fun time! It will keep you on your toes, make you laugh, and have you root for the most unlikely heroes.

The Disasters is a thrilling YA sci-fi adventure that combines the spirit of The Breakfast Club and the excitement of Guardians of the Galaxy. After being expelled from Ellis Station Academy, hotshot pilot Nax Hall and three other misfits are embroiled in a terrorist attack that makes them the prime suspects. As they go on the run, Nax and his unlikely allies plan a daring heist to expose the truth and fight against the powers that be.

Packed with high-stakes action, clever humor, and a group of underdogs rising to the occasion, this page-turning novel is a must-read for fans of Illuminae, Heart of Iron, and the beloved TV show Firefly.

Skyward by Brandon Sanderson

Brandon Sanderson may be best known for his epic Cosmere universe, but he also has a fantastic YA sci-fi series that is the perfect crossover between sci-fi and fantasy.

Skyward is an epic sci-fi adventure about a young girl named Spensa who dreams of becoming a pilot and proving her courage. In a war-torn world where pilots are humanity’s last hope, Spensa’s aspirations are hindered by her father’s infamous past as a deserter. Despite the odds stacked against her, Spensa’s determination to soar the skies remains unwavering.

A chance discovery in a forgotten cavern could hold the key to fulfilling her destiny and reaching for the stars. With themes of resilience, redemption, and the pursuit of dreams, this epic tale begins an enthralling series.

The Gone World by Tom Sweterlitsch

You probably never thought, “I need a mind-bending time-traveling NCIS Agent Gibbs in my life.” But I promise you, you do.

The Gone World is a mind-bending sci-fi thriller combining Inception and True Detective elements. Set in 1997 in western Pennsylvania, the story follows Shannon Moss, a member of a covert division within the Naval Criminal Investigative Service. Moss is assigned to solve the brutal murder of a Navy SEAL’s family and locate his missing daughter. However, she uncovers a shocking truth: the SEAL was an astronaut on the supposedly lost spaceship U.S.S. Libra, lost in the depths of Deep Time.

With her own experience of time-travel trauma, Moss delves into the future to unravel the case, but what she witnesses threatens not only the fate of one family but the very survival of humanity itself. With its blend of gripping tension and profound implications, The Gone World explores themes of time, human connection, and the fragility of our existence, making it an unforgettable and thought-provoking read.

A Memory Called Empire by Arkady Martine

Probably the most “hard” sci-fi on this list, but those hard sci-fi elements are no problem for seasoned fantasy readers.

A Memory Called Empire is a gripping sci-fi novel about a diplomat who must navigate the treacherous waters of a powerful empire to save her people. Mahit Dzmare is thrust into the heart of the Teixcalaanli Empire as the new ambassador from her small and fiercely independent mining Station. However, her arrival is marred by the discovery that her predecessor has been murdered. Mahit must delve into the mysteries surrounding his death. With the empire’s relentless expansion threatening her Station, Mahit is faced with the monumental task of saving herself and her people. This book is a must-read for fans of political intrigue, cultural clashes, and personal sacrifices.

Borne by Jeff Vandermeer

The weirdest book on this list is also one of my personal favorites!

In a post-apocalyptic world, a scavenger named Rachel finds a strange creature named Borne. Borne is a blur between plant and animal, and he quickly grows to become a beloved companion to Rachel. However, Borne’s growth also threatens the delicate balance of power in the city, and Rachel must protect him from those who would seek to use him for their own gain.

Borne is a story about resilience, love, and the repercussions of meddling with nature. It is a gripping tale of post-apocalyptic survival that will leave you thinking about the boundaries between creation and destruction, innocence and danger, and the lengths one will go to protect what they hold dear.