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Here are five excellent, recently‑published science‑fiction novels that have earned strong critical praise — they’d make great suggestions for your friend: 1. Some Desperate Glory by Emily Tesh (2023) Set in a future where Earth was destroyed and survivors live in alien‑dominated society, this space opera combines thrilling action with political and gender themes. It won the 2024 Hugo Award for Best Novel. Wikipedia +2 New Space Economy +2 Why it stands out Strong world‑building and stakes with human/alien conflict. Themes of fascism, identity, and revolution. Plenty of action while retaining thoughtful depth. Good for someone who likes big ideas + strong characters in a space setting. 2. In Ascension by Martin MacInnes (2023/24) This novel follows a marine scientist from the deep sea to outer space — tying together ecology, human ambition, and cosmic mystery. It won the 2024 Arthur C. Clarke Award. The Guardian +2 Kirkus Reviews +2 Why it stands out A more literary SF with deep sense of wonder and philosophical scope. Beautiful, evocative writing; moves between the microscopic and the cosmic. Good for someone who prefers more contemplative, thought‑provoking science fiction rather than nonstop action. 3. The Stardust Grail by Yume Kitasei (2024) A space‑opera / heist story: a former art thief is pulled into a quest to save an alien species. It has received starred reviews and high acclaim. Kirkus Reviews +1 Why it stands out Fast‑moving, fun adventure across alien worlds, combined with thoughtful themes. Great for readers who want something a bit lighter but still well‑crafted. Good for someone who enjoys a page‑turning cosmic adventure with heart. 4. Alien Clay by Adrian Tchaikovsky (2024) In this novel, a biologist who rebels against a fascist Earth government is exiled to an alien planet with both labor‑camp and evolutionary themes. It already has award nominations, indicating strong reception. Wikipedia Why it stands out Combines political dystopia, alien biology, and personal rebellion. The author is known for inventive SF, so this is a solid pick if your friend enjoys bold speculative concepts. Good for someone who likes complex ideas, alien worlds, and socially aware science fiction. 5. The Tusks of Extinction by Ray Nayler (2024) Though shorter (a novella‑length work), this highly‑acclaimed piece uses the resurrection of mammoths to explore conservation, de‑extinction, intelligence, and human moral failings. RAY NAYLER +1 Why it stands out A compact but powerful story with strong emotional and ethical stakes. Excellent if your friend might prefer something a bit shorter but still full of ideas. Good for someone who doesn’t always want to commit to a long novel, but still loves provocative science fiction. If you like, I can pull 10 or more recent hardest‑science or space‑opera SF picks, sorted by theme or style (e.g., “for fans of The Expanse”, “for more literary SF”, etc.). Would that be helpful?