25 Electrifying Books Sci-fi Book Club Members Just Discovered and Read

Welcome to the thrilling world of science fiction! The Sci-fi Book Club has recently unearthed a treasure trove of electrifying books that are guaranteed to transport you to distant galaxies, unravel mind-bending mysteries, and ignite your imagination. Whether you're a seasoned sci-fi enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the genre, these 25 captivating reads will leave you spellbound. Join us on this literary journey as we explore the depths of otherworldly realms, encounter intriguing characters, and delve into futuristic technologies that push the boundaries of human existence.

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1. The Salt Grows Heavy by Tor Nightfire:

From the USA Today bestselling author Cassandra Khaw comes The Salt Grows Heavy, a razor-sharp and bewitching fairytale of discovering the darkness in the world, and the darkness within oneself. Follow the mermaid and a mysterious plague doctor as they navigate a kingdom devoured by mermaids' daughters, encountering ageless children thirsting for blood. To survive, they must embrace the cruellest parts of their true nature.

2. The Calculating Stars: A Lady Astronaut Novel (Lady Astronaut, 1) by Mary Robinette Kowal:

In a world threatened by an impending meteorite strike, mathematician and pilot Elma York embarks on a journey to become an astronaut and lead humanity's escape to space. The Calculating Stars is a compelling tale of ambition, resilience, and the fight against societal barriers. Join Elma on her quest to explore the depths of space and challenge the prejudices of a male-dominated world.

3. The Fifth Season (The Broken Earth, 1) by N. K. Jemisin:

N.K. Jemisin's The Fifth Season transports readers to a world plagued by cataclysmic events known as "Fifth Seasons." Follow three extraordinary women as they navigate a fractured society, harness their earth-shattering powers, and unravel the mysteries of their interconnected lives. This award-winning novel delves into themes of oppression, survival, and the resilience of the human spirit.

4. Ninth House (Alex Stern, 1) by Leigh Bardugo:

Enter a world of dark academia and occult secrets in Leigh Bardugo's Ninth House. Alex Stern, a survivor of unspeakable trauma, is granted a scholarship to Yale University, where she becomes entangled in a web of sinister rituals and dangerous power games. With its blend of supernatural intrigue and a gripping mystery, this novel will keep you on the edge of your seat.

5. Leviathan Wakes (10th Anniversary Edition): 10th Anniversary Edition (The Expanse, 1) (Special Edition) by James S. A. Corey:

In a future where humanity has colonized the solar system, Detective Miller and ship officer Holden find themselves embroiled in a conspiracy that could ignite interplanetary war. Leviathan Wakes is a masterful blend of space opera, political intrigue, and hard-hitting detective work. Brace yourself for a thrilling ride through the depths of space and the complexities of human nature.

6. Sea of Tranquility: A novel by Emily St. John Mandel:

Emily St. John Mandel takes us on a mesmerizing journey through time and space in Sea of Tranquility. Following a renowned actress as she navigates the intricacies of fame and the enigmatic Station Eleven traveling theater, this novel weaves together tales of love, loss, and the enduring power of art. Prepare to be captivated by Mandel's lyrical prose and her ability to depict a post-apocalyptic world with depth and beauty.

7. Fairy Tale by Stephen King:

Stephen King, the master of horror, invites us into the eerie town of Castle Rock in Fairy Tale. A group of friends embarks on a dangerous quest to uncover the truth behind a series of disturbing events that haunt their small community. With his signature blend of supernatural elements and gripping suspense, King delivers another unforgettable tale that will leave you questioning the boundaries between reality and nightmares.

8. The Alloy of Law: A Mistborn Novel (The Mistborn Saga, 4) by Brandon Sanderson:

Return to the captivating world of Mistborn in Brandon Sanderson's The Alloy of Law. Set centuries after the events of the original trilogy, this novel follows lawman Waxillium Ladrian as he investigates a series of crimes in the bustling city of Elendel. With its mix of magic, steampunk technology, and thrilling action, this book is a perfect entry point for both new readers and longtime fans of the Mistborn series.

9. In the Shadow of Lightning (Glass Immortals, 1) by Brian McClellan:

Brian McClellan, acclaimed author of The Powder Mage trilogy, presents In the Shadow of Lightning, the first installment of the Glass Immortals series. In a world where magic is a finite resource nearing extinction, outcast Demir Grappo must confront his past and uncover the truth behind a power struggle that threatens the Empire. Prepare for epic battles, intricate worldbuilding, and a narrative that will keep you turning the pages.

10. The Final Strife: A Novel (The Ending Fire Trilogy) by Saara El-Arifi:

Step into a visionary fantasy world inspired by the mythology of Africa and Arabia in Saara El-Arifi's The Final Strife. Follow three women who band together against a cruel empire that divides people by blood. As they navigate trials of combat and skill, a war unlike any other looms on the horizon. This epic tale sings of rebellion, love, and the courage it takes to stand up to tyranny.

11. Gideon the Ninth (The Locked Tomb Series, 1) by Tamsyn Muir:

Tamsyn Muir introduces readers to a blend of science fiction, fantasy, and necromancy in Gideon the Ninth. Join Gideon Nav, a swordswoman bound to serve the necromantic House of the Ninth, as she embarks on a treacherous quest filled with puzzles, intrigue, and deadly challenges. With its unique voice, witty dialogue, and memorable characters, this book will leave you eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.

12. Star Wars: Light of the Jedi (The High Republic) (Star Wars: The High Republic) by Charles Soule:

Delve into the golden age of the Jedi Order in Star Wars: Light of the Jedi. Set 200 years before the events of the Skywalker saga, this thrilling novel takes readers on an exhilarating adventure as the Jedi face a catastrophic disaster that threatens the galaxy. Immerse yourself in the vast Star Wars universe and discover new heroes, villains, and the boundless potential of the Force.

13. The Kaiju Preservation Society by John Scalzi:

When COVID-19 sweeps through New York City, Jamie Gray, a dead-end food delivery driver, finds himself drawn into the world of the Kaiju Preservation Society. These dinosaur-like creatures known as Kaiju exist in an alternate dimension, and Jamie must navigate a dangerous mission to save them from a careless mistake that could endanger both worlds. John Scalzi's blend of humor, action, and imaginative world-building makes this a must-read for sci-fi enthusiasts.

14. The Atlas Six (Atlas Series, 1) (Box set) by Olivie Blake:

Welcome to the enchanting world of the Alexandrian Society in Olivie Blake's The Atlas Six. This secret society of magical academicians selects six uniquely talented magicians to secure a life of wealth, power, and prestige. Follow the latest round of candidates as they navigate a year-long initiation process filled with impossible tasks, rivalries, and the ever-present threat of elimination. Prepare for a captivating blend of magic, mystery, and personal growth.

15. For All Time by Shanna Miles:

Shanna Miles weaves a spellbinding tale of time travel and romance in For All Time. Follow the journey of a young girl named Bri who discovers a magical pocket watch that allows her to travel through time. As she embarks on a quest to right the wrongs of the past, she encounters love, danger, and the profound impact of her choices. This engaging novel combines elements of science fiction and historical fiction to create an unforgettable reading experience.

16. Station Eleven (Television Tie-in) by Emily St. John Mandel:

Emily St. John Mandel presents a haunting post-apocalyptic tale in Station Eleven. In the wake of a devastating flu pandemic, a traveling troupe of actors and musicians traverses a ravaged world, preserving the beauty of art and the human spirit. With its lyrical prose and interconnected narratives, this novel explores themes of resilience, the power of storytelling, and the enduring nature of culture in the face of catastrophe.

17. The Eye of the World (The Wheel of Time Book 1) (Box set) by Jordan Robert:

Embark on an epic journey across a richly detailed world in The Eye of the World, the first installment of The Wheel of Time series. Jordan Robert introduces readers to a vast tapestry of characters and a sprawling narrative that blends elements of high fantasy and prophecy. Join Rand al'Thor and his companions as they navigate a dangerous world threatened by dark forces. This series is a must-read for fans of immersive and intricately crafted fantasy worlds.

18. A Deadly Education: A Novel (The Scholomance) by Naomi Novik:

Naomi Novik presents a dark and immersive magical school in A Deadly Education. El, a student at the Scholomance, must navigate a perilous environment where even graduation is a matter of life and death. With its unique twist on the traditional magical academy setting and a fierce protagonist, this novel captivates with its intricate world-building, compelling characters, and a dose of dark humor.

19. City of Thorns (The Demon Queen Trials) by C N Crawford:

Enter the world of the Demon Queen Trials in C N Crawford's City of Thorns. Follow Lira, a young woman with hidden powers, as she battles supernatural creatures and faces a trial that will determine her fate. With its blend of urban fantasy, action-packed battles, and complex character dynamics, this series opener will leave you eagerly awaiting the next installment.

20. A Darker Shade of Magic: A Novel (Shades of Magic Book 1) by V. E. Schwab:

V. E. Schwab introduces readers to a multiverse of parallel Londons in A Darker Shade of Magic. Follow the adventures of Kell, one of the last Antari magicians, as he embarks on a dangerous journey between different versions of the city. With its richly imagined world, vibrant characters, and a gripping plot, this novel will transport you to a realm where magic flows through the veins of the city itself.

21. Outlander by Diana Gabaldon:

Diana Gabaldon's Outlander combines elements of historical fiction, romance, and time travel in an unforgettable saga. Follow Claire Randall, a World War II nurse, as she mysteriously travels back in time to 18th-century Scotland. Immersed in a tumultuous era, Claire encounters danger, passion, and a love that defies the boundaries of time. This epic series will sweep you off your feet and transport you to a world where love knows no bounds.

22. All Systems Red: The Murderbot Diaries (The Murderbot Diaries, 1) by Martha Wells:

Meet Murderbot, a self-aware security android with a penchant for binge-watching television shows. Martha Wells introduces readers to this unique and endearing character in All Systems Red. Follow Murderbot as it navigates a dangerous mission and uncovers a conspiracy that could have far-reaching consequences. This novella combines thrilling action, introspection, and a touch of humor, making it a must-read for fans of character-driven science fiction.

23. The Poppy War: A Novel (The Poppy War, 1) by R. F Kuang:

R.F. Kuang presents a breathtaking blend of history, mythology, and magic in The Poppy War. Follow Rin, a war orphan determined to escape her circumstances, as she gains admission to an elite military academy and discovers her immense powers. Set in a world inspired by Chinese history, this novel explores themes of war, power, and the sacrifices one must make for a greater cause.

24. The City We Became: A Novel (The Great Cities, 1) by N. K. Jemisin:

N.K. Jemisin crafts an extraordinary tale of culture, identity, and myth in The City We Became. In a contemporary New York City, five individuals embody the city's boroughs and must band together to defend the metropolis from a malevolent force seeking to destroy its spirit. With its vivid characters, evocative world-building, and exploration of social issues, this novel celebrates the diverse tapestry of urban life.

25. Shadow and Bone (The Shadow and Bone Trilogy, 1) by Leigh Bardugo:

Immerse yourself in a world of magic and intrigue in Leigh Bardugo's Shadow and Bone. Follow orphan Alina Starkov as she discovers her extraordinary powers and becomes entangled in a dangerous game of politics and warfare. With its richly imagined Grishaverse, complex characters, and a captivating plot, this series opener introduces readers to a realm where light and darkness collide.

Conclusion:

The Sci-fi Book Club members have embarked on an electrifying journey through these 25 captivating books. From the depths of space to the realms of magic, these stories have enthralled readers with their immersive worlds, unforgettable characters, and thought-provoking themes. Whether you're a seasoned sci-fi enthusiast or just beginning your exploration of the genre, these books offer a gateway to imagination, adventure, and boundless possibilities. So grab your reading glasses, settle into a comfortable spot, and prepare to be transported to new horizons as you embark on your own thrilling journey through these electrifying sci-fi reads. Happy reading!