Discover books similar to "The Expanse"
James S. A. Corey
The Expanse
"The Expanse" by James S.A. Corey is a sweeping space opera that follows a diverse cast of characters as they navigate a politically charged solar system on the brink of war. The series, which consists of nine novels and several short stories, is known for its intricate plotlines, rich world-building, and exploration of complex themes such as power, corruption, and the human condition. The story is set in the future, where humanity has colonized much of the solar system. The United Nations controls Earth and its colonies, while the outer planets and moons are governed by the Mars Congressional Republic and the Belters, a group of people who were born and raised in the asteroid belt. Tensions between these factions are high, and when a mysterious substance known as the protomolecule is discovered, it threatens to ignite a full-scale war. The series follows a disparate group of characters, including a tough-as-nails detective, a grizzled military veteran, and a politically ambitious diplomat, as they uncover the truth about the protomolecule and its origins. Along the way, they must navigate treacherous political alliances, confront their own personal demons, and make difficult moral choices. One of the strengths of "The Expanse" is its character development. Each character is fully realized, with their own unique voice, motivations, and flaws. The series also features a diverse cast, with characters from different backgrounds and cultures, which adds depth and richness to the story. Another strength of the series is its world-building. The solar system of "The Expanse" is meticulously crafted, with detailed descriptions of the various planets, moons, and space stations that make up the series' vast setting. The series also explores the practical challenges of living in space, such as the effects of microgravity on the human body and the difficulties of growing food in space. Overall, "The Expanse" is a thrilling and thought-provoking series that will appeal to fans of both science fiction and political intrigue. Its complex characters, intricate plotlines, and rich world-building make it a standout in the genre.
List of books similar to "The Expanse":
Becky Chambers
The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet
If you loved the diverse characters and epic space exploration in The Expanse, you'll enjoy this book. The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet is a heartwarming space opera about the crew of the spaceship Wayfarer and their adventures in deep space. The characters' relationships and personal growth are at the forefront of this story, making it a cozy and optimistic read despite its space opera setting.
Learn More
Ann Leckie
Ancillary Justice
Fans of political intrigue and artificial intelligence in The Expanse will appreciate Ancillary Justice. This novel features a unique protagonist: an artificial consciousness that once controlled a starship and its entire crew. Now, it seeks revenge against those who destroyed it, exploring themes of identity, consciousness, and power in a complex and fascinating universe.
Learn More
Mary Robinette Kowal
The Calculating Stars
The Expanse's blend of science, politics, and character-driven drama is echoed in The Calculating Stars. This alternate history novel imagines an Earth on the brink of climate catastrophe and the race to colonize space. The protagonist, Elma York, is a mathematician and pilot fighting for her place in the astronaut corps, offering a unique perspective on space travel and societal change.
Learn More
Mary Doria Russell
The Sparrow
The Sparrow shares The Expanse's thoughtful exploration of humanity's place in the universe. This novel follows a group of Jesuit priests and scientists who discover intelligent extraterrestrial life and travel to meet them. The story alternates between the journey to the alien world and the aftermath, examining themes of faith, culture clash, and the human condition.
Learn More
Liu Cixin
The Three-Body Problem
If you're intrigued by the science and alien contact in The Expanse, you'll want to pick up The Three-Body Problem. This novel, the first in a trilogy, introduces a complex and thrilling first contact story where humanity must deal with the impending arrival of an alien civilization. The narrative combines hard science fiction with a gripping plot and thought-provoking themes.
Learn More
John Scalzi
The Human Division
The Human Division is a collection of interconnected novellas set in the Old Man's War universe, which shares The Expanse's focus on character-driven stories and political intrigue. The series follows the crew of a diplomatic spaceship as they navigate tense negotiations, dangerous missions, and the complexities of interspecies relations.
Learn More
© All rights reserved.