Books Like...
If you liked Restoree, here are the top 17 books to read next:
- #1
Stardoc is pure sci-fi popcorn - a fast-paced, entertaining space adventure chock-full of bizarre aliens, snappy medical drama, and comfort-read vibes. Not groundbreaking, but seriously fun if you’re in the mood for escapist fiction.
Stardoc by S.L. Viehl is a fast-paced sci-fi adventure that follows Dr. Cherijo Grey Veil, a talented surgeon navigating the complexities of medical emergencies aboard the Jorenian ship Sunlance. She grapples with her troubled past while treating various alien life forms and dealing with hostile environments, bounty hunters, and her own evolving feelings for enigmatic characters like Duncan Reever and warrior Xonea Torin. The plot is filled with suspense as Cherijo faces both personal and professional dilemmas, including a killer on board and her father's relentless pursuit, culminating in a thrilling cliffhanger.
The writing style is engaging, mixing action, medical details, and diverse character interactions to create a captivating story. Viehl seamlessly weaves in elements of humor and romance, keeping the reader invested in Cherijo's journey. Readers appreciate the detailed world-building and the protagonist's relatable challenges, which are balanced with enjoyable escapism. This blend of science fiction, medical drama, and romance results in a series that's both entertaining and thought-provoking.
1999•404 pages - #2
A classic, thought-provoking coming-of-age sci-fi that’s both daring and reflective, though its slower pace and sometimes heavy-handed social commentary may not be for everyone.
Rite Of Passage by Alexei Panshin is a coming of age science fiction novel set in a distant future where a young girl named Mia faces a challenging trial of survival on a colonial world. The story explores complex moral issues, societal conflicts, and the ethical dilemmas faced by the characters, all within the backdrop of a self-sustaining spaceship society. The writing style is described as evocative, thought-provoking, and deeply engaging, offering a unique twist on the traditional coming of age narrative.
There is no doubt that I never said things half as smoothly as I set them down here, and probably no one else did either. Some of the incidents are wholly made up. It doesn’t matter, though. Everythin...1968•257 pages - #3
A comfy, old-school sci-fi adventure - great for fans of survival tales and classic science fiction, but may feel a bit simplistic and dated for readers who crave gritty realism or razor-sharp pacing.
'Freedom's Landing' by Anne McCaffrey is a sci-fi novel that follows the story of Kristin, who is taken from Earth and brought to a distant planet as a slave by the Catteni aliens. The book explores themes of survival, colonization, and forming a new society with a mix of different human and alien characters. The plot revolves around the struggles and challenges faced by a group of slaves as they try to carve out a place for themselves on an alien planet that the Catteni want colonized.
The writing style of 'Freedom's Landing' is described as fast-paced, compelling, and engaging. The author, Anne McCaffrey, is praised for her world-building skills, well-developed characters, and the mix of tension, humor, and romance in the story. The book offers a unique and intriguing take on survivalist sci-fi, with a focus on the characters' journey to adapt and thrive in a dangerous and unpredictable environment.
KRISTIN BJORNSEN WONDERED IF SUMMER ON THE planet Barevi could possibly be the only season. There had been remarkably little variation in temperature in the nine months since she’d arrived there. She’...1995•343 pages - #4
A classic blend of psychic sci-fi and romance - heartfelt, occasionally pulpy, and best for those who enjoy character-driven space adventures with a touch of nostalgia.
The Rowan by Anne McCaffery is a science fiction novel set in a future where humanity has developed telekinetic and telepathic abilities. The story follows the life of the main character, Rowan, who is a powerful telepath known as a Prime. Born on the planet Altair, Rowan grows up from a traumatized orphan to a strong woman who uses her mental powers to assist in interstellar travel. When she receives a telepathic plea for help from another powerful telepath named Jeff Raven, she embarks on a journey that leads to a deep connection and love story between equals. The book explores themes of psychic abilities, interstellar travel, and personal growth through challenging circumstances.
The Talents were the elite of the Nine Star League.Their gifts were many and varied,ranging from the gentle telepathic, to the rare and extremely valued Primes.On the Primes rested the entire economic...January 1990•336 pages - #5
A classic sci-fi romance with high-stakes adventure and a steamy, angsty power imbalance. If you’re in the mood for drama-heavy, character-driven stories where love means hard-earned healing, give it a try!
'Lords of the Storm' by Justine Davis is a science fiction romance novel that follows the story of Shaylah, a highly decorated fighter pilot who takes leave and encounters Wolf, a sex slave controlled by a collar that dictates his actions. Shaylah is determined to help him, even if it means risking her own life. The book is described as a fun space adventure with elements of excitement, drama, and romance. The plot unfolds with the characters facing various challenges and overcoming adversity, ultimately heading towards a happy ending.
The book is praised for its engaging storyline that delves into themes of rescuing a tragically hurt hero, the dynamics between the captain and the slave, and the emotional journey of the characters. The writing style is commended for its depth, thought-provoking content, and ability to evoke empathy from the readers. Despite some criticisms about over-dramatized emotions and repetitive misunderstandings between the characters, the book is overall enjoyed for its imaginative world-building and the chemistry between the protagonists.
The fact that she was exhausted colored Shaylah's reaction as she stepped out of the Sunbird. Her frown as she hit the wall of humid heat outside the ship's pressure lock was involuntary; she only kn...July 1994•384 pages - #6
A vibrant, addictive space romance with strong leads and an engrossing universe - perfect for fans of sci-fi with a generous helping of feels and adventure, though maybe not for romance cynics.
Chasidah Bergren, a former captain in the Sixth Fleet, finds herself wrongly accused and court-martialed, leading her to a prison planet. There, she meets Gabriel Sullivan, a man she thought was dead, who offers her a chance at escape in exchange for her help. Together, they navigate a world of telepathy, genetic manipulation, and secrets, all while forming a complex relationship. The book combines traditional science fiction elements like space ships and military agendas with a compelling love story, focusing on the intertwined fates of Chaz and Sully.
The narrative is a blend of intricate world-building, thrilling action, and emotionally intense romance. Readers follow Chaz and Sully as they embark on a journey across the universe, facing discrimination, political intrigue, and personal struggles. The story weaves together themes of love, betrayal, and sacrifice, creating a dynamic and engaging plot that keeps readers invested till the very end.
Only fools boast they have no fears. I thought of that as I pulled the blade of my dagger from the Takan guard’s throat, my hand shaking, my heart pounding in my ears, my skin cold from more than just...2002•472 pages - #7
A classic bodice-ripper in space - funny, fiery, and definitely not for everyone. A must-try for fans of vintage, over-the-top sci-fi romance, but certain themes are very much a product of their time.
Warrior's Woman by Johanna Lindsey is a sci-fi romance that follows the story of Tedra De Arr, a strong and independent woman who is forced to flee her planet due to a coup endangering all women. She meets Challen Ly San Ter, a barbarian warrior, who defeats her in a challenge battle and claims her as his own. The book explores their complex relationship, with Tedra having to serve Challen in the manner he chooses, leading to a passionate and intense romance set in a futuristic universe spanning multiple planets. The writing style is described as humorous, bold, and unapologetic, with a blend of sci-fi fantasy and romance elements that provide a unique twist on the traditional historical romance favored by the author.
The demonstration against boskrat killing had been going on for three days, with ecology students marching in front of the Fanya Science Lab, their projector banners flashing on and off in neon colors...January 1990•448 pages - #8
Acorna is a gentle, creative space adventure that mixes sci-fi with fantasy charm. It’s great for readers seeking comfort and imagination, but those after dark or deeply sophisticated plotlines might want to look elsewhere.
'Acorna: The Unicorn Girl' by Anne McCaffrey is a science fiction story that follows the heroine Acorna, a female alien with magical powers, who was discovered and raised by asteroid miners. The plot revolves around Acorna enlisting the aid of unlikely friends to rescue suffering and abused children from a planet that depends on an illegal child slave system for economic prosperity. The story touches on themes of human trafficking and explores the goodness of characters in a futuristic setting where space travel is as normal as air travel.
The writing style of the book is described as easy to read, entertaining, and suitable for a light but addictive read. introduces a variety of characters, some good, some bad, and some simply present, while the plot unfolds quickly with events that lead to Acorna's adventures becoming addicting. Despite being categorized as mainly for a younger audience, the story delves into serious topics like human trafficking, showcasing the author's ability to cover issues well and create a compelling narrative.
At first Gill assumed it was just another bit of space debris, winking as it turned around its own axis and sending bright flashes of reflected light down where they were placing the cable around AS-6...1997•416 pages - #9
A fun, easy-to-enjoy sci-fi romance romp with a unique take on goddesshood, time travel, and found family. It's perfect for fans of lighthearted space adventures with genuine heart - just don’t expect cutting-edge realism or deep philosophical dives.
After defending Khalaran territory in a dangerous maneuver during a space battle with the Fav'lhir, a Raheiran Special Forces captain named Gillaine Davr finds herself waking up three hundred and forty two years in the future on a Khalaran space station where she has been elevated to the status of a goddess. The story follows Gillaine as she navigates this new reality, adjusting to being worshipped and trying to maintain a balance in her relationship with Admiral Mack Makarian. The book blends elements of science fiction, romance, and fantasy, creating a story that is both action-packed and thought-provoking.
It wasn't the first time Gillie had hazily regained consciousness flat on her back in sickbay, feeling stiff and out of sorts. And unable to account for a missing two or three hours. Pub-crawling did...October 2002•446 pages - #10
A classic, imaginative space adventure with heart - slightly dated but still well worth the read, especially if you enjoy character-driven sci-fi with unique concepts.
The Ship Who Sang is a unique science fiction novel that explores the concept of children with disabilities being raised to become the brains of starships in a futuristic universe. The main character, Helva, is born severely deformed but has a perfectly normal brain, leading her to be connected to a spaceship where she embarks on various missions. The book is structured as a compilation of short stories and novellas that follow Helva's journey through space, her relationships with her human partners called Brawn, and her search for a true companion. The writing style has a classic science fiction feel with a focus on ideas over characters, and the plot delves into themes of love, loss, and the human experience in a technologically advanced society.
She was born a thing and as such would be condemned if she failed to pass the encephalograph test required of all newborn babies. There was always the possibility that though the limbs were twisted, t...January 1969•254 pages











