Books Like...

'Ancillary Mercy' by Ann Leckie is the final installment in the 'Imperial Radch' series, focusing on Breq, a former AI of a destroyed ship named Justice of Toren. The plot delves into complex system politics, AI rights, intricate character relationships, and a dramatic conflict with an all-powerful ruler. Leckie's writing style weaves a compelling narrative filled with multi-dimensional characters, intricate world-building, and engaging political intrigue, making the series a drama of manners with thought-provoking themes on justice and identity.

Banner of the Damned by Sherwood Smith is a standalone novel set in the Sartorias Deles world, taking place some 400 or 500 years before most of the other books in the series. The story follows Emras, a scribe, as she becomes entangled in momentous events in Colendi and Marloven Hesea, experiencing intricate political machinations and the discovery of an evil mage. The book is praised for its meticulous world-building, intricate character development, and a narrative that weaves together multiple storylines leading to a climactic revelation.

Sisters of the Vast Black by Lina Rather is a novella that follows a small community of nuns aboard a living spaceship as they travel to far-flung colonies, offering aid and comfort in the aftermath of a devastating war. The story delves into themes of faith, gender, colonialism, and features lesbian nuns in space, all while delivering a plot that is neatly executed with adherence to Chekhov's gun rule.

In "Hunting Party," ex-military commander Heris Serrano takes on a job as the space yacht captain for a wealthy older woman. The story follows their adventures as they uncover mysteries on the yacht, deal with teenage relatives getting into trouble, and navigate through space while facing obstacles and stereotypes. The plot combines elements of space opera, horse racing, and hunting, with a focus on strong female characters and intriguing relationships. The writing style is described as engaging, fast-paced, and featuring a blend of science fiction and fox hunting themes.

Regenesis is a sequel to the book 'Cyteen' by C.J. Cherryh, continuing the story directly following the events of the first book. The novel delves into complex political machinations, character development, and the intricate relationships between clones and their originals. The writing style is described as dense and complex, with a focus on internal monologues, detailed world-building, and a mixture of hard science fiction and thriller murder mystery elements.

A Big Ship at the Edge of the Universe follows an ensemble cast in a space opera setting, featuring treasure hunting, salvaging, and heisty moments. The plot revolves around a super warship that disappeared during a previous conflict, with protagonists being hunted by mysterious assailants and being drawn into a crew on a quest to uncover the truth behind the powerful ship. The writing style combines elements of space opera, magic systems, and action-packed sequences to create an exciting and engaging adventure.

Provenance by Ann Leckie is a space opera set in the same universe as the author's previous trilogy but with a different focus. The story follows Ingray Aughskold as she navigates dynastic politics, alien encounters, and cultural clashes while questioning the authenticity of her culture's historical facts. Through a mix of political intrigue, heists, and family drama, Ingray undergoes a journey of self-discovery and realization, all within the backdrop of a complex interstellar society.

The book delves into themes of political awakening, gender diversity, family dynamics, and cultural identity, all woven together in a twisty political thriller. Leckie's writing style combines elements of adventure, mystery, and comedy of manners, offering readers a unique and engaging exploration of a richly imagined universe filled with intricate world-building and thought-provoking narratives.

Unconquerable Sun by Kate Elliott is a military space opera set in a far future where Princess Sun, the daughter of the powerful Queen Marshal Eirene, seeks to prove herself and bring defeat to her enemies. The story is rich in political intrigue, family dynamics, and space battles, with a focus on Princess Sun's journey to earn respect, navigate internal politics, and face external threats. The narrative is told through multiple perspectives, including Princess Sun, her allies, and friends, offering a complex and engaging portrayal of characters in a detailed and fascinating world.

'Ancillary Sword' by Ann Leckie is a science fiction novel that delves deeper into the Radch empire, exploring the culture and characters introduced in the first book. The plot revolves around Breq, now a fleet captain, navigating treachery, war, and crisis while trying to come to terms with her fate. The book addresses themes of empire building, assimilation, social justice, and power, all set in a richly built universe that reflects elements of Ancient Rome. The writing style is characterized by detailed world-building, character-driven storytelling, and a slower pace that focuses on diplomatic work and socio-political exploration within a galactic empire setting.

Karen Memory is a steampunk Western novel set in an alternate history Seattle, featuring a diverse cast of characters. The story follows Karen Memery, a strong and pragmatic protagonist who works at a high-class bordello and gets entangled in a series of events involving a rescued prostitute, a serial killer, and a mind control machine. The book combines elements of adventure, mystery, and romance, all set against a backdrop of a rough Wild West atmosphere with a steampunk twist.