Books Like...
'The Last Astronaut' by David Wellington is a science fiction novel that revolves around a mysterious object approaching Earth, controlled by extraterrestrial intelligence. NASA launches a probe led by astronaut Sally Janson to make first contact with the aliens. The book starts off with a premise reminiscent of 'Rendezvous with Rama' by Arthur C. Clarke, but evolves into a scary exploration of the unknown, filled with horror elements. The plot delves into the fears and challenges faced by the characters as they encounter the alien artifact and the existential threat it poses. The writing style combines detailed descriptions, fast-paced action, and a gradual revelation of plot elements, keeping readers engaged throughout the story.
If you liked The Last Astronaut, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
Save:'Ship of Fools' by Richard Paul Russo follows the starship Argonos as it navigates through a universe where Earth has become a toxic wasteland. The crew discovers a planet where all inhabitants have been brutally murdered, leading them to a haunted starship with unanswered mysteries. The narrative is driven by the protagonist Bartolomeo's intimate perspective, providing clear insights into his thoughts and emotions. The story explores themes of religion, corruption, and the struggle for power aboard the ship, culminating in a revolution and the discovery of a devastated new land.
The writing style of 'Ship of Fools' is described as brisk and engaging, with well-developed characters like Bartolomeo. The novel balances science fiction elements with horror and explores deep philosophical questions about faith, humanity, and the unknown, keeping readers invested in the unfolding events on the starship Argonos.
WE had not made landfall in more than fourteen years. One disastrous choice of a star after another. The captain viewed this string of failures as absurdly bad luck; the bishop, as divine intervention... - #2
Save:The Void by Brett J. Talley is a science fiction horror novel that delves into the perils of deep space travel and the unknown terrors lurking in the darkness. The story follows the crew of the spacecraft Chronos as they awaken prematurely from warp speed, only to find themselves dangerously close to a black hole and a seemingly abandoned ship called the Singularity. As they explore the eerie vessel, they encounter a terror beyond their worst nightmares, leading to a suspenseful and chilling journey through the depths of space.
The author, Brett Talley, employs a distinctive writing style that keeps readers on edge, blending elements of cosmic horror and sci-fi to create a gripping narrative. Through skillful storytelling, Talley weaves together fragments of history, dream sequences, and suspenseful pacing to build a compelling plot that explores themes of existential dread and the unknown forces that lurk in the void of space.
Aidan Connor woke to light. It was white and blinding and pure, but provided no heat. It held him, that light, and he wondered if he had died. He thought he had and that this place was Heaven. But his... - #3
Save:'Event Horizon' by Steven E. McDonald seems to be a sci-fi horror novel that draws inspiration from cosmic horror elements similar to movies like Alien and Event Horizon. The book is described as having a plot that involves space horror, time travel, and mysterious, eerie settings that create a creepy and suspenseful atmosphere. Readers compare the book to popular space horror films and games like Dead Space, Pandorum, and Alien, mentioning that it captures a blend of sci-fi and horror genres effectively.
The writing style of 'Event Horizon' is said to be reminiscent of classic horror movies with a focus on creating a spooky ambience and delivering a narrative that keeps readers engaged and on edge. The book is praised for its ability to evoke feelings of fear and suspense, similar to the experience of watching a horror film, making it a thrilling and captivating read for fans of the genre.
Dr. William Weir opened his eyes and gazed upon a gray universe. Once more vented into pale reality without argument, vented into a mundane world that was, in its own dreary way, as bad as the world t... - #4
Save:'Dead Silence' by S.A. Barnes is a sci-fi horror novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey aboard the Aurora ship, where a crew faces terrifying events while dealing with corporate competition and greed. The book combines elements of space travel, ghost ships, and mind games, creating a suspenseful atmosphere reminiscent of movies like Event Horizon and Ghost Ship. The story unfolds with a blend of horror, mystery, and themes of corporate exploitation, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they navigate through a narrative full of twists and turns.
The writing style of 'Dead Silence' has been described as atmospheric and detailed, with a focus on creating a sense of dread and tension throughout the story. Readers have praised the author, S.A. Barnes, for her ability to weave together various elements such as space horror, romance, and critiques of corporate influence, resulting in a unique and engaging narrative that keeps readers guessing until the very end.
My head is throbbing again, a white-hot line of pain from the back of my skull down to the right side of my jaw, and a dead man is signaling me from across the common room. His hand waves frantically ... - #5
Save:"The Hematophages" by Stephen Kozeniewski is a thrilling sci-fi horror novel that follows the journey of Paige, a brave and ambitious woman who joins an expedition to salvage a mysterious lost seedship. As the story unfolds, readers are introduced to a world where an all-female society rules the galaxy, and where corporate greed and bureaucratic dystopia create a tension-filled backdrop. The plot builds up gradually, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as Paige navigates through a series of horrifying events and encounters with alien life forms. The writing style is engaging and descriptive, painting a vivid picture of a future where blood-drinking creatures and corporate espionage intertwine to create a chilling narrative.
It’s a stupid question. One that’s been asked at job interviews since time immemorial. Briefly, the image of a protosapient Neanderthal in a pantsuit made from leopard-hide leaps to mind, asking an ap... - #6
Save:Salvation Day by Kali Wallace is a space horror science fiction novel set in a future where Earth has undergone a Collapse, leading to a divided society between the privileged living under the United Councils of Earth and the outcasts in the wastelands. The story follows the hijacking of a space shuttle by a cult led by an insane zealot, aiming to reach and take over a quarantined exploration vessel known as the House of Wisdom. The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of Zahra, one of the hijackers, and Jas, the sole survivor with a dark past connected to the abandoned ship, revealing mysteries, political complexities, and psychological fallout in a well-rounded and compelling manner.
Outside the broad windows of the loading area, the long shaft of Civita Station tethered the port to the ground. As they waited their turn to board the shuttles, the passengers gaped at the Earth, exc... - #7
Save:'The Scourge Between Stars' by Ness Brown is a novella that delves into the realm of space horror, drawing comparisons to the iconic movie 'Alien'. The story follows a generational spaceship on a perilous journey back to Earth, where passengers are plagued by mysterious deaths and a lurking malevolent force aboard the vessel. Despite its short length, the book manages to create a gripping narrative filled with tension and eerie moments, making it a quick but engaging read for fans of the sci-fi horror genre.
The writing style of 'The Scourge Between Stars' is described as fast-paced and immersive, with vivid imagery that sets the tone for a thrilling and suspenseful experience. Readers praise the novella for its ability to keep them on the edge of their seats, providing a cinematic feel that captures the essence of classic space horror while introducing fresh elements to the genre. Although some opinions note similarities to 'Alien', the book is commended for its effective portrayal of fear and survival in the vastness of space.
- #8
Save:'Dead Moon' in the 'Threshold' series by Peter Clines is a thrilling and unique story set on the moon, where a new caretaker named Cali Logan arrives to manage a vast cemetery. However, things take a dark turn when preserved corpses start reanimating and digging themselves out of their graves. As the characters on the moon face off against these intelligent and relentless zombies, they must fight, run, and pray for rescue in a fight for survival against an ancient and mysterious threat.
'Dead Moon' offers a fresh take on the zombie genre, combining elements of horror, humor, and action to create a gripping and entertaining story. keeps readers on the edge of their seats with its fast-paced plot, complex characters, and unexpected twists, making it a must-read for fans of Clines' work and anyone looking for a thrilling adventure in space.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Threshold ) - #9
Save:'Parasite' by Darcy Coates is a science fiction horror novel that explores the terrifying concept of parasitic alien life forms spreading through distant outposts and colonies in space. The book follows a series of connected stories set in a shared universe where humanity faces a menacing alien menace, reminiscent of classic horror sci-fi films like 'Aliens' and 'The Thing'. The plot unfolds through different viewpoints in various space stations, each introducing new characters and revealing the escalating horror as the parasites take over.
The writing style in 'Parasite' is described as engaging and easy to read, with a focus on building tension and delivering creepy and chilling moments that evoke goosebumps. The book seamlessly transitions between different segments, each offering a unique perspective on the unfolding horror in space. Despite some criticisms about pacing and character development, readers appreciate the fast-paced plot and the suspenseful narrative that keeps them hooked until the end.
Jen snapped her helmet into place, enjoying the quiet hiss and click that told her it was locked. A lot of outpost staff complained about having to wear the thick suits during routine patrols, but Jen... - #10
Save:The Season of Passage by Christopher Pike is a science fiction novel that follows a group of astronauts on their journey to Mars to uncover the mysteries surrounding the previous mission. The plot involves elements of horror, vampires, ancient civilizations, and a sense of impending doom. The writing style is described as creepy, cool, spooky, and suspenseful, blending space opera, horror, and high fantasy with a traditional monster. The story is set in a futuristic scenario where the characters face unknown dangers and unearth unsettling truths about the red planet.
