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Here are three strong, recently published science‐fiction novels that come highly recommended — each offering different flavours of SF and good picks to suggest to your friend: 1. Alien Clay by Adrian Tchaikovsky (2024) A biologist exiled to a prison-planet investigates an alien civilization while grappling with human authoritarianism and evolution. Kirkus calls it “a savagely satirical take on the consequences of repressive doctrine and the power of collective action.” Kirkus Reviews It was shortlisted for the 2025 Hugo Award for Best Novel and the 2025 Locus Award for Best Science Fiction Novel. Wikipedia +1 Why it’s worth recommending: strong world-building, a thought-provoking premise (biology + alien life + oppression), and significant buzz. Tip: It leans toward hard/idea-driven SF, so your friend might appreciate the science/alien life angle. 2. In Ascension by Martin MacInnes (2023/US release 2024) A marine scientist’s journey from deep‐sea trenches to space missions, exploring origins, environment, and humanity’s place in the cosmos. Kirkus calls it “an interesting investigation of home and interpersonal responsibilities through deep-sea and far-space travel.” Kirkus Reviews It won the 2024 Arthur C. Clarke Award for best full novel. The Guardian Why it’s worth recommending: literary SF with depth — less action, more reflective, blending science and human story. Tip: Best for a reader who appreciates character, setting, and ideas more than fast-paced plot. 3. Fractal Noise by Christopher Paolini (2023) Set in his “Fractalverse”, this is a prequel novel where a xenobiologist investigates a massive alien-made deep pit on a remote planet. Publishers Weekly called it “smart worldbuilding … vivid and gripping.” PublishersWeekly.com Why it’s worth recommending: more in the space-exploration & alien-mystery mode — good if your friend likes sci-fi adventure with big ideas. Tip: While it’s a prequel and ties into a larger universe, it works as a standalone read. If you like, I can suggest 5–10 more titles (mixing very recent releases, different sub-genres: hard sci-fi, space opera, climate-SF, etc.) with short blurbs and review highlights. Would you like that?