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Here are five excellent, recently published science-fiction novels that come highly reviewed — perfect to suggest to a friend who’s looking for something fresh and engaging: 1. Annie Bot by Sierra Greer (2025) 5 This debut novel centers on Annie, a humanoid AI companion designed to serve her human owner. As she becomes self-aware, the story asks sharp questions about autonomy, identity, power and the nature of intimacy. Novelish Review +1 Reviews call it “provocative, powerful” for how it explores issues of consent, service, and being seen as “less than”. Kirkus Reviews +1 It also won the prestigious Arthur C. Clarke Award in 2025. The Guardian Why suggest it? It’s short, thought-provoking, and conversation-worthy — ideal if your friend enjoys speculative fiction tied to social themes. 2. Alien Clay by Adrian Tchaikovsky (2024) 6 The story features a biologist exiled to a brutal labor-camp on the alien planet Kiln under a repressive regime, and explores evolution, otherness, resistance. Fantasy Hive +1 Reviews highlight its inventive world-building and its sharp critique of authoritarian science. Kirkus Reviews +1 Why suggest it? Strong for readers who love big ideas, alien worlds, and political undertones in sci-fi. 3. Service Model by Adrian Tchaikovsky (2024) 6 From reviews: the main character is a robot valet who, after his master’s death, wanders through a decaying world of machines imitating service. The novel becomes darkly comic, existential and satirical. GeekDad One review calls it “absurdist … in the tradition of Kafka’s The Trial and Camus’ The Stranger.” Ancillary Review of Books Why suggest it? Great for a reader who enjoys philosophical sci-fi with a twist of satire and robots. 4. The Mercy of Gods by James S. A. Corey (2024) 6 This launches a new space-opera trilogy where humans are conquered by an alien species and must navigate life under alien rule — large scale, high stakes. Wikipedia Critics praised its world-building, scope and character depth. Wikipedia Why suggest it? A strong pick if your friend enjoys epic space-opera adventures with serious themes. 5. Shroud by Adrian Tchaikovsky (2025) 6 Featured in “best-new sci-fi books of 2025” lists: a commercial expedition discovers a deadly, radio-active moon named “Shroud” — high concept. Pan Macmillan +1 Why suggest it? For someone who wants ultra-fresh (2025) sci-fi with mystery, danger and big world-building potential. Tips for Your Friend Ask: Do they prefer big-epic space opera (try The Mercy of Gods or Shroud) or smaller, idea-driven works (try Annie Bot or Service Model)? Consider content sensitivities: e.g., Annie Bot deals with abuse, power-imbalances and is emotionally intense. If they like a particular author, note that Tchaikovsky appears three times above — a very active and well-reviewed modern voice in sci-fi. If you like, I can pull together another 5–10 recommendations (including debut authors or lesser-known gems) so you have a fuller list to choose from. Would you like that?