The Greatest "Fiction" Books Since 1990

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 286 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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  1. 2376. Riot Baby by Tochi Onyebuchi

    The narrative unfolds through the lives of two siblings endowed with extraordinary powers, set against the backdrop of systemic racism and societal turmoil in America. The older brother's abilities emerge amidst the violence of the Los Angeles riots, while his younger sister's powers manifest as a form of telekinesis. As they navigate a world rife with injustice and the carceral state's oppressive reach, the siblings grapple with the potential and limitations of their gifts. The story is a searing exploration of anger, hope, and the indomitable spirit of resistance, examining whether supernatural abilities can be a catalyst for change in a world entrenched in institutionalized inequality.

  2. 2377. The Trouble With Peace by Joe Abercrombie

    In this gripping fantasy sequel, the realm struggles with the aftermath of a hard-won war, where the fragile peace is threatened by the ambitions and insecurities of the various power players. The central characters, each with their own intricate plots and personal demons, navigate a complex political landscape where rebellion brews, alliances shift, and betrayal lurks at every corner. As the tension escalates, the line between hero and villain blurs, raising profound questions about power, justice, and the true cost of peace in a world where the lust for control often trumps the common good.

  3. 2378. The Empire Of Gold by S. A. Chakraborty

    In this thrilling conclusion to a fantasy trilogy, the fates of a con artist, a djinn warrior, and a daeva prince intertwine as they face a legendary city's upheaval and the dark forces that threaten its existence. As magical bonds are severed and alliances shift, the characters must navigate treacherous political landscapes, ancient magic, and their own complicated histories. With the future of the magical city of Daevabad hanging in the balance, they must confront their pasts and make difficult choices to protect their people and their loved ones, culminating in an epic battle that could reshape the world as they know it.

  4. 2379. Black Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse

    In a world inspired by pre-Columbian Americas, a solar eclipse heralds an uncertain future as prophecy and political intrigue converge. A rogue ship captain, a conflicted priest, and a clan-outsider with a mysterious power find their fates intertwined on a perilous journey to the holy city of Tova. As they navigate a complex tapestry of clashing cultures and hidden agendas, they must confront their own demons and unravel the truth behind an impending celestial event that could spell the end of their civilization. This epic fantasy weaves together the threads of power, identity, and redemption, set against a richly imagined landscape teeming with gods and monsters.

  5. 2380. The Relentless Moon by Mary Robinette Kowal

    Set in an alternate 1960s where a meteorite strike has accelerated space exploration, the novel follows a female astronaut as she navigates the complexities of lunar politics, espionage, and personal sacrifice. With Earth facing environmental catastrophe, the space program becomes a beacon of hope for humanity's survival. The protagonist must contend with sabotage attempts that threaten the stability of the lunar colony, while also grappling with societal expectations and her own ambitions. As the space race intensifies, she is drawn into a dangerous game of political intrigue and must use her wits and courage to ensure the success of the mission and the safety of her colleagues.

  6. 2381. The Space Between Worlds by Micaiah Johnson

    In this science fiction novel, the protagonist, born in a world where travel between parallel universes is possible, is one of the rare individuals who can traverse these alternate realities due to her counterparts being dead in other worlds. The story delves into themes of identity, privilege, and survival, as she navigates complex relationships and a web of secrets. Her unique position allows her to gather intel across worlds, but it also places her in grave danger, leading her to confront her own past and the stark disparities between different versions of her life and society. As she moves through these spaces, she must grapple with the moral implications of her actions and the true meaning of having a place to call home.

  7. 2382. Harrow The Ninth by Tamsyn Muir

    In this darkly imaginative and complex sequel, the protagonist, a necromancer with unmatched powers, confronts the aftermath of an epic space battle and the loss of her mentor. Now, she must navigate the treacherous politics of an immortal empire as its empress's right hand. While grappling with unreliable memories and a mind that seems to be unraveling, she faces internal and external threats, including potential madness and a lingering, enigmatic enemy. As she trains in the arcane arts of the dead, she must solve the mysteries of her past and the riddles of her present to protect the future of her world.

  8. 2383. The Burning God by R. F. Kuang

    In this gripping finale to a fantasy trilogy inspired by historical events in 20th-century China, a young shaman and war orphan confronts the devastating cost of her quest for power and revenge. As she returns to her homeland, she finds it ravaged by war and famine, and must reckon with the alliances she has formed and the monstrous deity that grants her strength. With the fate of her people hanging in the balance, she engages in brutal battles against both foreign invaders and the treacherous forces within her own ranks, ultimately facing a final, harrowing choice that will determine the future of her world.

  9. 2384. The Tyrant Baru Cormorant by Seth Dickinson

    The novel follows the story of Baru Cormorant, a brilliant young woman from a small island nation who is swept up by an imperial power known as the Masquerade that seeks to dominate her homeland through cultural assimilation and economic control. Using her wits and strategic acumen, Baru infiltrates the ranks of the Masquerade's civil service with the ultimate goal of tearing down the empire from within. However, as she rises in power and influence, she must grapple with the complex moral dilemmas of her actions and the personal cost of her quest for vengeance against the forces that have colonized and reshaped her world. Her journey is fraught with treachery, rebellion, and difficult choices that challenge her loyalties and threaten to compromise her principles.

  10. 2385. The Echo Wife by Sarah Gailey

    The book revolves around a brilliant scientist who specializes in cloning and genetic engineering. Her life takes a dark turn when she discovers that her husband has been having an affair with a clone she created—a replica of herself, but more compliant and tailored to his desires. When a violent incident leaves her husband dead, the scientist and her clone must dispose of the body and cover up the crime. As they work together, they grapple with complex questions of identity, morality, and the ethics of cloning, all while trying to outsmart a world that may not be ready to understand or accept their existence. The narrative delves into themes of betrayal, personal autonomy, and the very essence of what it means to be human.

  11. 2386. On Fragile Waves by E. Lily Yu

    The book tells the poignant tale of a refugee family fleeing war-torn Afghanistan in search of a better life. Through harrowing journeys over land and sea, the narrative follows the family as they navigate the perils of smugglers, treacherous waters, and hostile immigration policies. The story is seen primarily through the eyes of the young daughter, whose vivid imagination and storytelling offer both an escape from and a means of processing the harsh realities they face. As they move from one temporary haven to another, the family's bonds are tested, and they struggle to maintain hope amidst the uncertainty of their future.

  12. 2387. Jade Legacy by Fonda Lee

    In this gripping finale to an epic fantasy trilogy, two rival clans battle for control of their island nation and its valuable magical resource, jade, which grants its wearers superhuman abilities. As modernity encroaches, with new technologies and foreign powers vying for influence, the Kaul family must navigate treacherous political waters, grapple with the implications of their jade-infused legacy, and face personal sacrifices. Their choices will determine not only the fate of their own family and the clan they lead but also the future of their entire culture and country, as ancient traditions clash with the unstoppable force of progress.

  13. 2388. The Wisdom Of Crowds by Joe Abercrombie

    The book explores the idea that large groups of people are collectively smarter than individual experts when it comes to problem-solving, decision-making, innovation, and predicting outcomes. The author delves into various case studies and anecdotes to illustrate how the aggregation of information in groups results in decisions that are often better than those made by any single member of the group. The text also discusses the conditions necessary for crowd wisdom to prevail, such as diversity of opinion, independence of members from one another, decentralization, and a method for aggregating opinions. The insights provided challenge the conventional wisdom that only experts can provide solutions to complex problems and instead highlight the potential of harnessing the collective intelligence of the masses.

  14. 2389. Son Of The Black Sword by Larry Correia

    This fantasy novel is set in a rigidly stratified world where caste determines one's place in society, and the law is upheld by powerful warriors known as Protectors. The story follows Ashok Vadal, one of the most formidable of these Protectors, who wields a legendary ancestral blade. However, his unwavering belief in the law is shattered when he discovers a secret about his own heritage that forces him to question everything he has fought for. As he grapples with his newfound knowledge, he becomes a target of various factions vying for power, setting him on a path that could either lead to the world's salvation or its destruction. Through epic battles and moral dilemmas, the narrative explores themes of justice, honor, and the quest for truth.

  15. 2390. Monster Hunter Memories: Grunge by Larry Correia, John Ringo

    This novel is a thrilling entry in a popular urban fantasy series, blending action, humor, and supernatural elements. It follows the story of a Marine veteran who, after a life-altering encounter with a supernatural entity, joins a secretive organization dedicated to hunting and neutralizing monsters that threaten humanity. Set in the 1990s, the protagonist navigates the challenges of adapting to civilian life, the complexities of working within a team of unique and skilled individuals, and the dangers posed by a variety of monstrous foes. The narrative is rich with detailed world-building, intense combat sequences, and a deep exploration of the characters' backgrounds and motivations, making it a compelling read for fans of action-packed fantasy adventures.

  16. 2391. Oathbringer by Brandon Sanderson

    In this epic fantasy novel, the third installment of a renowned series, the world of Roshar faces an escalating threat from the Voidbringers, leading to widespread chaos and destruction. The narrative follows Dalinar Kholin as he grapples with his turbulent past, striving to unite the fractured kingdoms against the looming enemy while wrestling with his own inner demons and the ambiguous nature of power and leadership. Amidst political intrigue, ancient mysteries, and the resurgence of legendary powers, characters embark on journeys of self-discovery, redemption, and the pursuit of honor, questioning the true meaning of being a hero in a world on the brink of annihilation.

  17. 2392. Artemis by Andy Weir

    This science fiction novel is set in the late 21st century, focusing on the life of Jasmine "Jazz" Bashara, a young woman living in Artemis, the first and only city on the moon. Jazz is a small-time smuggler, struggling to make ends meet in the lunar colony's domed society. When she's offered the chance to commit the perfect crime for a lucrative reward, she jumps at the opportunity. However, she quickly finds herself entangled in a conspiracy for control of Artemis itself. As she navigates a web of alliances and enemies, Jazz must use her wit and resourcefulness to survive and prevent the destruction of the only home she's ever known.

  18. 2393. Sleeping Beauties by Stephen King, Owen King

    In a small Appalachian town, an extraordinary event unfolds: women who fall asleep become shrouded in a cocoon-like gauze. If disturbed, they awaken in a violent, primal state. Meanwhile, in this bizarrely evolving world, Evie Black, a mysterious woman with a unique immunity to the sleeping phenomenon, emerges as both a potential savior and a harbinger of doom. As tensions between men and women escalate, the town becomes a battleground for a deeper societal confrontation, with Evie at its center. This novel weaves a rich tapestry of character and conflict, exploring themes of gender, power, and survival in a world teetering on the brink of an unfathomable transformation.

  19. 2394. A Star Wheeled Sky by Brad R. Torgersen

    This science fiction novel unfolds in a distant future where humanity has spread across the stars, thanks to mysterious alien gateways. When a new, unexplored gateway is discovered, it sparks a frenzied race among various factions of a fragmented human civilization, each seeking the potential new world and resources it could lead to. The story weaves together the perspectives of diverse characters, from a seasoned starship captain to a rebellious freedom fighter, as they navigate political intrigue, warfare, and the unknowns of space to secure a future for their people. Amidst the backdrop of interstellar conflict, the novel explores themes of survival, the quest for knowledge, and the hope of finding a new home among the stars.

  20. 2395. Little Darlings by Melanie Golding

    This psychological thriller delves into the fragile reality of Lauren Tranter, a new mother to twins, who is convinced that her babies are in danger from a supernatural entity intent on stealing them and replacing them with changelings. After a harrowing encounter in the hospital, Lauren's fears are dismissed as the product of exhaustion and mental strain. However, when her twins disappear and are then found seemingly unharmed, Lauren's conviction only deepens, leading her into a desperate struggle to protect her children and prove her sanity. Set against a backdrop of folklore and modern-day anxieties about motherhood, the narrative weaves a chilling tale of paranoia, love, and the lengths to which a mother will go to protect her children.

  21. 2396. House Of Assassins by Larry Correia

    In "House of Assassins," readers are plunged into a vividly crafted fantasy world where magic, gods, and warriors collide. The story follows Ashok Vadal, a former protector turned vengeful seeker of justice, as he embarks on a perilous mission to rescue his kidnapped protector, Thera. With the aid of a motley crew of allies, including a rebellious sorceress and a group of warrior monks, Ashok navigates treacherous landscapes and battles formidable enemies. The novel intricately weaves themes of honor, loyalty, and the quest for redemption, delivering a thrilling adventure filled with epic battles, dark magic, and complex characters fighting against the odds to save one of their own.

  22. 2397. The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern

    This novel weaves a mesmerizing tale of a young graduate student who discovers a mysterious book hidden in his university library, leading him on an extraordinary journey to a secret, magical underground world. Filled with pirates, painters, lovers, and thieves, the story delves into timeless tales of love, loss, and transformation. As he navigates this labyrinthine world, he encounters a series of intriguing characters and stories that intertwine with his own destiny, challenging his understanding of reality and his place within it. Rich with symbolism and deeply imaginative, the narrative explores themes of storytelling, fate, and the connections that bind us across time and space.

  23. 2398. The Hollow Places by T. Kingfisher

    This novel follows a young woman who, after a personal upheaval, moves in with her uncle to help run his quirky museum of oddities. When she discovers a mysterious hole in the museum's wall, it leads her into a series of surreal, alternate realities filled with terrifying creatures and endless, hollow spaces. Teaming up with a fellow traveler, she embarks on a harrowing journey to find her way back home, facing not just the physical dangers of these other worlds but also confronting her deepest fears and insecurities. The narrative weaves a tale of adventure, horror, and self-discovery, as the protagonist learns the true meaning of courage and resilience in the face of the unknown.

  24. 2399. Battle Ground by Jim Butcher

    In this thrilling installment of a popular urban fantasy series, the city of Chicago becomes the epicenter of a supernatural war. The protagonist, a wizard detective, must rally his allies, both mortal and magical, to defend the city against a formidable and ancient enemy leading an army of monsters. As the battle rages, the stakes are higher than ever, pushing the hero to the limits of his power and resolve. Loyalties are tested, and sacrifices are made, in a desperate fight not just for survival, but for the soul of the city itself. The narrative is packed with action, magic, and the series' hallmark witty dialogue, making it a gripping read from start to finish.

  25. 2400. The Icarus Plot by Timothy Zahn

    In "The Icarus Plot," readers are plunged into a thrilling science fiction narrative that explores the complexities of human ambition, technological advancement, and the quest for freedom. The story follows a group of colonists on a distant planet who discover that their entire society is part of an elaborate experiment orchestrated by Earth's government. As they uncover the truth about their existence and the artificial limitations placed upon them, they must navigate a dangerous path toward autonomy, challenging their creators and risking everything for the sake of their own evolution and independence. This gripping tale weaves together themes of rebellion, ethics, and the human spirit's indomitable will to transcend constraints.

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download