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Some highly-reviewed science fiction novels published recently include winners of prestigious awards like the Hugo and Arthur C. Clarke Awards and popular titles from 2024 and 2025. You can choose a book based on your friend's interests, from high-concept space opera to more intimate character studies. Critically acclaimed winners and nominees The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley (2024) is a literary science fiction novel that was longlisted for the Booker Prize and widely praised by critics. It follows a civil servant who is tasked with assisting "expats" brought from the past to the present. The Mountain in the Sea by Ray Nayler (2024) explores a deep-sea discovery that makes us question human-animal communication and intelligence. Some Desperate Glory by Emily Tesh (2024) is a space opera that focuses on a young woman raised to be a warrior after Earth's destruction. Highly anticipated novels of 2025 Shroud by Adrian Tchaikovsky is a space-survival novel where two humans crash on a pitch-black moon and discover its alien life. Katabasis by R.F. Kuang is a highly anticipated science fantasy and horror novel. While details are scarce, Kuang is a multi-award-winning and bestselling author. When the Moon Hits Your Eye by John Scalzi is a satirical take on the classic trope of the moon being made of cheese. Scalzi is a reliable author known for his engaging and inventive plots. The Book of Elsewhere by Keanu Reeves and China Miéville is inspired by Reeves' BRZRKR comic book series and blends Reeves' vision with Miéville's renowned literary skill. Highly reviewed books of 2024 Service Model by Adrian Tchaikovsky is a satirical story following a robot servant who murders his owner and must find a new purpose in a deteriorating world. Beautyland by Marie-Helene Bertino is a surrealist novel about an extraterrestrial born as a human baby and sent to report back to her home planet via a laundromat payphone. The Book of Love by Kelly Link follows three friends who must investigate a disappearance and a supernatural presence. It is notable for its exploration of grief and connection. Beloved recent books Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir (2021) is a humorous and intelligent survival story about an amnesiac astronaut who must save Earth from a geological catastrophe. The Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells (series began in 2017) is an action-packed, humorous space opera series about a socially awkward robot-human hybrid security guard. The Expanse by James S.A. Corey (series began in 2011) is a critically acclaimed and fan-favorite space opera series that was also adapted into a TV show. Start with Leviathan Wakes.