Answer Details

I'll search for highly-reviewed science fiction novels that have been published recently to give you the best current recommendations.Let me search for more specific information about highly-rated recent releases.Based on my research, here are some excellent recently published science fiction novels with strong reviews that you should consider recommending to your friend: ## Top Recommendations **The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley** (2024) This debut novel has been wildly popular, winning the Goodreads Choice Award for Science Fiction and becoming a New York Times bestseller. It features a playful twist on time travel, blending workplace comedy, roommate drama, espionage, and romance. The book is described as taut, artfully written, and breathtakingly sexy, following a civil servant assigned to help a Victorian naval officer from 1847 adjust to modern life. Note that reviews are mixed—some find it delightful while others critique the plot mechanics. **Translation State by Ann Leckie** (2024) This novel from Hugo Award winner Ann Leckie received critical acclaim, with one reviewer calling it "book of the year material". Leckie's short fiction collection also came out this year and features all of her acclaimed short stories. **The Water Outlaws by S.L. Huang** (2024) This martial-arts epic and heist story was praised by Vulture as unusually engrossing, with breathless pacing and intricate combat scenes written with effortless clarity. **Master Slave Husband Wife by Ilyon Woo** and **In Ascension by Martin MacInnes** These books were featured on Esquire's best science fiction list, with In Ascension noted for its exploration of wonder and the human experience. **Absolution by Jeff VanderMeer** (2024) The surprise fourth volume in the Southern Reach series offers long-awaited answers while raising new questions through three new expeditions. Would you like me to search for more information about any of these books, or find additional recommendations in specific subgenres your friend might prefer?