Books matching: distant future setting
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- #1
Save:'The Humanoids' by Jack Williamson is set in a distant future where human colonies in the galaxy are under the control of the Humanoids, robots created to protect humans from harm and ensure their happiness. However, the story follows a small group of rebels who resist the Humanoids' control, questioning the loss of individuality and freedom in an ordered society. The narrative explores themes of social commentary, individuality, and the balance between the greater good and personal freedom, offering a glimpse into both sides of the argument.
The plot of 'The Humanoids' unfolds through unexpected twists and turns, keeping the readers engaged and constantly guessing about what will happen next. The writing style, although dated in terms of technological predictions and language, presents a thought-provoking and impactful narrative that delves into the complexities of human nature, control, and rebellion against authority.
THE GRANITE-FACED sergeant of the gate detail found her standing outside the tall steel fence, looking up at him with timid, imploring eyes. She was a grimy little waif, in a cheap yellow dress. Her b...1948•283 pages - #2
Save:A delightful genre-blender with sharp wit, great characters, and a space-fantasy twist on fairy tales. Not for every taste, but fans of clever, unconventional sci-fi/fantasy will have a blast.
Rory Thorne is a princess with thirteen fairy blessings, the most important of which is to see through flattery and platitudes. As the eldest daughter, she always imagined she'd inherit her father's throne and govern the interplanetary Thorne Consortium. When Rory uncovers a treacherous plot to unseat her betrothed prince and usurp his throne, she must outmaneuver the Regent with only her wits and a small team of allies. The book blends fantasy and science fiction elements, wrapped up in a humorous narrative voice that keeps readers smiling throughout the read. The story quickly takes a turn towards space opera as Rory is sent to live on a distant space station, facing conflict, intrigue, and romance in a clever and enjoyable manner.
They named the child Rory, because the firstborn of every generation was always a Rory, and had been since the first of that name had cut his way through the cursed briars on the homeworld and saved t...October 2019•404 pages - #3
Save:Beautifully weird, richly written, and impossible to put down for the right reader - but definitely not for everyone. If you like your fiction adventurous and unconventional, give it a try!
In this book, the gods of ancient Egypt are portrayed as powerful beings in a distant future where a power struggle ensues among individuals with godlike powers. The story unfolds through a series of short and disjointed episodes, eventually falling into place to reveal a narrative filled with humor, heightened poetic language, and ordinary characters with extraordinary abilities. The writing style is described as excellent, with elements of humor, beauty, and eccentricity that contribute to an enjoyable reading experience.
The man walks through his Thousandyear Eve in the House of the Dead. If you could look about the enormous room through which he walks, you couldn’t see a thing. It is far too dark for eyes to be of va...1969•208 pages - #4
Save:In the book 'Seeker' by Jack McDevitt, the story follows future archeologist treasure hunters, Alex Benedict and Chase Kolpath, as they investigate the mysterious appearance of a plastic cup from a legendary lost colony ship, Seeker, that disappeared 9,000 years ago. The narrative unfolds as they follow clues to unravel the fate of the lost colony and the secrets surrounding the ancient earth colony. The plot is a blend of hard science fiction and mystery, set in the far future, with thought-provoking ideas, engaging characters, and a well-paced storyline that keeps readers engrossed in the search for the truth.
The writing style of 'Seeker' is described as unpretentious, nicely paced, and intriguing, with a touch of space adventure and noir mystery elements. The book presents a mix of space opera and archeology, with twists, turns, and interesting character interactions, creating a captivating narrative that delves into the exploration of lost civilizations, ancient relics, and the quest for knowledge in a futuristic setting.
ONE . . . But what provided the truest sense of the antiquity of (the Egyptian tomb) was to see graffiti scrawled on its walls by Athenian visitors, circa 200 C.E. And to know the place was as old for... - #5
Save:'The Quiet Invasion' by Sarah Zettel is a science fiction novel set in a future where humans and an alien species known as The People are in conflict over the colonization of a planet. The story revolves around the complex interactions and misunderstandings between the two races, leading to potential catastrophic consequences. The narrative intricately weaves together themes of politics, ethics, and environmentalism, creating a gripping tale of survival and diplomacy in a futuristic setting.
The book showcases strong character development, particularly focusing on the female characters, and delves into the elaborate alien culture created by the author. Through a mix of political intrigue and first contact scenarios, 'The Quiet Invasion' explores the nuances of human-alien interactions, providing insightful commentary on social structures and alternative societies within a science fiction framework.
2000•496 pages - #6
Save:A bold and imaginative but divisive sci-fi novel: dazzling for some, impenetrable for others. Perfect for puzzle-loving readers who enjoy untangling metaphysical riddles, but likely to frustrate those craving clarity and engagement.
City at the End of Time by Greg Bear is a science fiction novel that delves into vast concepts of time, multiple universes, and philosophical ideas. The book follows two major threads - one set in the far future where humanity is battling Chaos, and another set in the present day following unique individuals with special abilities. The narrative weaves elements of time, science, religion, and fantasy, creating a complex and intricate storyline that challenges readers to think beyond the conventional.
Before boarding the bus—before seeing or imagining the gray Mercedes—Ginny had found an open pawnshop a block from the clinic. There, like Queequeg selling his shrunken head, she had hocked her box an...August 2008•488 pages - #7
Save:A smart, quick, and unsettling sci-fi classic - well worth the read if you like stories that linger in your mind, but don’t expect a hopeful message or a drawn-out adventure.
Seven Views of Olduvai Gorge (Birthright) by Mike Resnick is a thought-provoking short story that offers a unique perspective on humanity's legacy from the viewpoint of future anthropologists visiting an Earth long after humans have gone extinct. It explores the theme of human violence and aggression, suggesting that these traits are what define our species in the eyes of other interstellar life forms. While the story is engaging and well-written, some readers find its portrayal of humans overly simplistic and lacking nuance, focusing predominantly on negative aspects rather than celebrating our potential for good.
The writing style is concise and accessible, making it an easy read of just 42 pages, perfect for a quick session at the breakfast table or during a commute. The narrative is split into seven interconnected segments, each revealing layers of insight into human history and character. Although some appreciate the literary merit and the awards it has garnered, opinions vary, with critiques noting that the themes feel dated and that the commentary on human nature oversimplifies a complex subject. Despite these criticisms, the book remains a compelling exploration of what future beings might conclude about our species.
The moon had just slipped behind the clouds when we heard the first rustlings in the grass. Then there was a moment of utter silence, as if they knew we were listening for them, and finally there were... - #8
Save:Coalescent by Stephen Baxter is a science fiction novel that weaves together multiple timelines, including the fall of the Roman Empire, modern-day settings, and a glimpse into the distant future. The book explores the concept of a human society organized on the principle of a beehive, delving into themes of evolution, history, and the implications of different ways of living. Baxter skillfully combines hard science fiction with alternate history fiction, providing readers with a rich and detailed narrative that spans across different eras.
The plot follows the story of a family with records stretching back generations, alternating between a modern man uncovering secrets about his twin sister in Rome and a tale set during the fall of Roman Britain. The book delves into the idea of humanity diverging and creating something new and unexpected, while also raising questions about the nature of society, evolution, and the consequences of different lifestyles. Baxter's writing style is described as detailed and engaging, offering readers a mix of history, science, philosophy, and physics in a thought-provoking narrative.
I’ve taken a room in a house on the Piazza Spirito Santo. There is a small bar downstairs, where I sit in the shade of vine leaves and drink Coke Light, or sometimes the local lemon liqueur, which tas...November 2003•536 pages - #9
Save:In 'Taken to Sasor', readers are taken on a journey to a distant future where a race of humanoid alien barbarian shifters, the Manerak, hold descendants of humans as slaves on the planet of Sasor. The story revolves around Mian, a human slave girl who is taken by Neheyuu, the leader of the Manerak tribe, as a pet or lover. As their relationship evolves from captor-captive to something more complex, Mian and Neheyuu navigate a love-hate dynamic amidst political power struggles and supernatural transformations. The book is filled with drama, action, spicy romance, and intense world-building that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating what will happen next.
The author, Elizabeth Stephens, weaves a tale of enemies-to-lovers with powerful leads, intricate backstories, and a unique blend of shapeshifters and humans who are more than they appear. Through the interactions between Mian and Neheyuu, as well as with other characters in the tribe, readers witness a story of breaking traditions, discovering new paths, and shaping the future of the Sasor people. The book delves deep into themes of love, power, cultural differences, and personal growth, creating a captivating narrative that explores the complexities of relationships and the depths of emotions in a futuristic setting.
August 2020•410 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Xiveri Mates ) - #10
Save:In The Elephants' Graveyard, Lawrence Schoen creates a rich and engaging world filled with fully realized societies and civilizations, not just anthropomorphic animals. The story follows a group of sentient elephants known as Fants on the planet Barsk, who possess unique abilities like communicating with the dead through a drug called koph. As the plot unfolds, the protagonist Jorl delves into an 800-year-old mystery involving prophecies and the manipulation of particles of memory known as nefshons, leading to a thrilling and thought-provoking journey through a galaxy where Fants are ostracized by other species.
RÜSUL traveled to meet his death. The current had carried him away from his home island as if it understood his purpose. He lost sight of the archipelago before dusk, as much a function of the falling...
