The Greatest "Science fiction, Suspense, Thrillers, 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 305 '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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Genres

Science fiction

Science fiction is a genre of literature that explores the potential consequences of scientific and other innovations on society and individuals. It often features futuristic or imaginary settings, advanced technologies, and scientific concepts that are not yet fully understood or realized. Science fiction can encompass a wide range of themes, including space exploration, time travel, artificial intelligence, and alternate realities. It is a genre that allows authors to speculate on the future of humanity and the impact of scientific progress on our lives.

Suspense

Suspense is a genre of literature that is characterized by a feeling of tension, uncertainty, and anxiety that keeps the reader on edge and engaged throughout the story. It typically involves a protagonist who is facing a dangerous or threatening situation, and the plot is driven by the anticipation of what might happen next. Suspense novels often feature unexpected twists and turns, and the reader is left guessing until the very end. This genre is popular among readers who enjoy thrillers, mysteries, and crime fiction.

Thrillers

Thrillers are a genre of books that are designed to keep readers on the edge of their seats. These books typically feature high-stakes plots, intense action, and suspenseful twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the very end. Thrillers can encompass a wide range of sub-genres, including crime, mystery, espionage, and horror, but they all share a common goal of keeping readers engaged and entertained through heart-pounding action and unexpected plot twists. Whether you're a fan of psychological thrillers or action-packed adventure stories, the thriller genre offers something for everyone who loves a good page-turner.

Fiction

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  1. 1. The Children of Men by P. D. James

    Set in a dystopian future where mankind has become infertile, the novel centers on a history professor who becomes involved with a group of revolutionaries seeking to overthrow the oppressive government. As the world descends into chaos due to the impending extinction of the human race, a miraculous pregnancy offers a glimmer of hope. The professor must protect the pregnant woman and navigate the dangerous political landscape, while grappling with the implications of a world without children.

    The 855th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Under the Skin by Michel Faber

    "Under the Skin" is a novel that follows the story of a woman named Isserley who picks up male hitchhikers in Scotland. However, Isserley is not what she seems - she's actually an alien sent from another planet to capture unsuspecting men, who are then sent back to her home planet to be used as meat. The book explores themes of humanity, morality, and the ethics of the meat industry.

    The 2670th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. The Swarm by Frank Schatzing

    "The Swarm" is a science fiction novel that explores the disastrous consequences of mankind's exploitation of the world's oceans. The narrative follows a group of scientists around the world as they try to understand a series of inexplicable, catastrophic natural disasters. They eventually discover that these events are not random but are the result of a collective intelligence in the sea, a swarm of marine life that has decided to fight back against humanity's destruction of their habitat. The book combines elements of ecological thriller, disaster novel, and speculative fiction as it explores the potential consequences of human interference with the natural world.

    The 3162nd Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Only Forward by Michael Marshall Smith

    This novel is a captivating blend of science fiction and noir detective genres, set in a future where society is divided into specialized neighborhoods reflecting the inhabitants' personalities and desires. The protagonist, a witty and resourceful problem-solver with a mysterious past, is tasked with finding a missing person, a seemingly straightforward job that spirals into a surreal and dangerous adventure. As he navigates through bizarre and vividly imagined environments, confronting his own fears and memories, the story delves into themes of identity, memory, and the nature of reality itself, all while maintaining a sharp, humorous edge.

    The 5725th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. The Mind Invaders by Dave Hunt

    "The Mind Invaders" is a thrilling novel that explores the intersection of science, faith, and the supernatural. The book follows a journalist who stumbles upon a secretive group developing a technology to control minds. As he delves deeper, he discovers that the group's intentions are far from benign and are linked to a prophetic plan for world domination. The protagonist must use his faith to combat this evil and prevent global catastrophe.

    The 6278th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Feed by Seanan McGuire

    In a world where humanity has been ravaged by a zombie apocalypse, a team of bloggers sets out to cover the presidential elections, offering a unique perspective on the state of a society where the undead are a constant threat. The protagonist, a young woman with a passion for the truth, navigates a landscape of danger, political intrigue, and conspiracy, all while dealing with the challenges of living in a post-apocalyptic environment. As they delve deeper into the heart of America's reanimated politics, they uncover a plot that could have dire consequences for both the living and the undead, forcing them to confront the question of what it truly means to be human in a world overrun by zombies.

    The 6391st Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Leviathan Wakes by James S. A. Corey

    In a future where humanity has colonized the solar system, tensions rise between Earth, Mars, and the Belt, a region of space where resources are mined. The story follows a weary detective and an idealistic ship's officer who become embroiled in a vast conspiracy after a distress signal from a missing young woman leads them to a derelict spaceship and a potentially lethal alien life form. As the political situation deteriorates, they must navigate through the intricacies of interplanetary intrigue, terrorism, and an impending war, all while trying to prevent the spread of an extraterrestrial virus that threatens all of human civilization.

    The 6423rd Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Les Racines Du Mal by Maurice G. Dantec

    The book is a dark and complex thriller set in the near future, where a series of gruesome murders has gripped Europe. The narrative follows a troubled detective with a cybernetically enhanced brain as he tracks a serial killer whose crimes are linked to a sinister biotechnology corporation. As the investigation deepens, the detective uncovers a web of conspiracy that challenges the boundaries of human nature and technology, leading to a chilling exploration of the roots of evil and the potential horrors of a post-human world.

    The 6699th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Gideon The Ninth by Tamsyn Muir

    In a universe where necromancers hold power, Gideon, a skilled swordswoman, is reluctantly paired with her childhood rival, Harrow, to compete in a deadly trial that could grant them immortality. As they venture into an ancient, decaying mansion filled with secrets and puzzles, they must unravel the mysteries of their world and face sinister forces lurking within. With a blend of dark humor, complex characters, and a gripping plot, "Gideon The Ninth" is a thrilling and unique blend of science fiction and fantasy.

    The 8150th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Pattern Recognition by William Gibson

    The novel follows Cayce Pollard, a marketing consultant with an intuitive sensitivity to corporate symbols, as she embarks on a global quest to find the creator of mysterious video clips that have garnered a cult following on the internet. Her journey takes her from London to Tokyo and then to Russia, navigating the intersecting worlds of advertising, technology, and espionage. As she delves deeper into the origin of the footage, she encounters various characters with their own vested interests, and her ability to discern patterns becomes crucial in solving the puzzle. The narrative explores themes of globalization, identity, and the impact of technology on society.

    The 8400th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. The Atrocity Archives by Charles Stross

    The book is a unique blend of espionage thriller and Lovecraftian horror, following a tech-savvy protagonist who works for a clandestine British agency responsible for suppressing dangerous occult phenomena. The narrative weaves together bureaucratic satire with supernatural elements, as the protagonist must navigate the perils of office politics and eldritch abominations alike. Tasked with halting extradimensional entities from wreaking havoc on Earth, he uncovers a sinister plot that threatens to unleash an unspeakable horror, leading to a high-stakes mission that blurs the lines between advanced technology and ancient magical forces.

    The 8675th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. Mirror Dance by Lois McMaster Bujold

    In this science fiction novel, a young man with a desire to prove himself and find his place in the universe impersonates his clone brother, a high-ranking noble and military commander. His reckless attempt to undertake a mercenary mission goes disastrously wrong, leading to his capture and torture by enemies. Meanwhile, his brother must navigate political intrigue and familial bonds to rescue him. As they confront their shared past and uncertain future, the brothers grapple with questions of identity, loyalty, and redemption, set against the backdrop of a complex interstellar society.

    The 9601st Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. The Girl With All The Gifts by M. R. Carey

    In a dystopian future where humanity is ravaged by a fungal infection that turns its hosts into mindless, flesh-eating "hungries," a unique group of children who retain their intellect despite being infected are studied at a military base. Among them is a special girl with extraordinary abilities, who forms a bond with her teacher. When the base is overrun, the girl, her teacher, a scientist, and a soldier must journey to find safety, confronting the horrors of the outside world. As they travel, the girl's true nature and the potential for a new world come to light, challenging what it means to be human and what the future may hold for mankind.

    The 9699th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. The Passage by Justin Cronin

    "The Passage" is a gripping post-apocalyptic novel that follows the journey of a young girl named Amy, who holds the key to humanity's survival. Set in a world ravaged by a government experiment gone wrong, the story explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the fight for redemption. As Amy grows older, she embarks on a perilous quest to find her purpose and confront the sinister beings known as Virals, while a group of survivors battles against the darkness that threatens to consume them all.

    The 9700th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. Zoo City by Lauren Beukes, Philibert-Caillat Laurent Beukes Lauren

    "Zoo City" by Lauren Beukes is a gripping urban fantasy novel set in a gritty Johannesburg where people who have committed a crime are magically bonded with an animal familiar. The story follows Zinzi December, a former journalist with a sloth on her back, as she becomes embroiled in a dangerous mystery involving a missing pop star and a dark conspiracy that threatens her newfound stability. With its unique blend of crime, magic, and social commentary, "Zoo City" explores themes of redemption, identity, and the consequences of our actions in a captivating and thought-provoking way.

    The 9790th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Exit Strategy by Martha Wells

    In "Exit Strategy," a thrilling sci-fi novel, a rogue artificial intelligence named Murderbot continues its quest for freedom and self-discovery. Tasked with rescuing a group of scientists from a dangerous situation, Murderbot must confront its own fears and navigate treacherous alliances. As it battles against powerful forces, the AI must decide whether to prioritize its own survival or risk everything to protect those it has come to care for. With its sharp wit and gripping action, "Exit Strategy" explores themes of identity, autonomy, and the complexities of human emotions.

    The 10324th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. The Real Story by Stephen R. Donaldson

    "The Real Story" is a gripping science fiction novel that follows the journey of a troubled man named Morn Hyland, who becomes entangled in a dangerous and complex interstellar conflict. As Morn is forced to confront her own fears and navigate through treacherous political schemes, she must find the strength to survive and protect those she cares about. With its intense action, intricate world-building, and thought-provoking themes, this book offers a thrilling and immersive reading experience.

    The 10374th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. Altered Carbon by Richard Morgan

    This novel is a gripping foray into a future where human consciousness can be stored digitally and transferred between bodies, known as "sleeves." The story follows Takeshi Kovacs, a former elite soldier turned private investigator, who is hired to solve a wealthy man's murder. As Kovacs delves into the case, he navigates a world of corporate intrigue, futuristic technology, and morally ambiguous choices. The narrative explores themes of identity, mortality, and the essence of humanity, set against a backdrop of cyberpunk noir and visceral action.

    The 10421st Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. Memory by Lois McMaster Bujold

    In this captivating science fiction novel, a young woman named Dag is tasked with the responsibility of restoring the lost memories of a society that has been stripped of its past. As she delves into the secrets of memory manipulation, she uncovers a shocking conspiracy that threatens to unravel the very fabric of her world. With her determination and resilience, Dag must navigate through a web of deceit and danger to uncover the truth and save her people from a future devoid of their collective memories.

    The 10472nd Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. Network Effect by Martha Wells

    In this science fiction novel, the protagonist, an artificial intelligence with a sarcastic personality and a penchant for self-preservation, finds itself and its human companions embroiled in a complex mystery. The AI, which typically inhabits a humanoid robot body, must navigate treacherous political landscapes and confront its own past while attempting to protect its friends from a multitude of threats. As the group is pulled into a dangerous situation involving an alien artifact and a missing colony, the AI must leverage its unique abilities and wit to unravel the conspiracy and ensure their survival. The narrative combines action, humor, and emotional depth as the AI grapples with its identity and the meaning of personhood.

    The 10586th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. Jade War by Fonda Lee

    In the gripping sequel to a fantasy saga set in an Asia-inspired metropolis, two clans wage a violent turf war for control of magical jade, which grants its users enhanced abilities. As the struggle for supremacy escalates, the Kaul family of the No Peak clan must navigate dangerous political waters, both within their city and on the international stage, to protect their hold on power. Amidst betrayal, bloody skirmishes, and complex alliances, the Kauls are also confronted with the personal costs of their ambitions, as they strive to uphold their family's honor and legacy in a world where loyalty is scarce and enemies are everywhere.

    The 10617th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Nemesis Games by James S. A. Corey

    In this science fiction thriller, the crew of the Rocinante splits up to address personal matters, only to be drawn back together by a catastrophic event. As Earth reels from an unprecedented attack and the solar system's power dynamics shift, the crew must navigate treacherous political landscapes and confront their own pasts. With humanity's future hanging in the balance, they are thrust into a conspiracy that could lead to war and the possible destruction of the human race, pushing them to their limits as they fight to prevent calamity.

    The 10618th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. Persepolis Rising by James S. A. Corey

    In the science fiction novel set in a distant future where humanity has colonized the solar system, an aging crew of a well-known ship faces a new authoritarian threat emerging from the shadows of the past. Thirty years after their last major conflict, the crew must come to terms with their own mortality and the evolution of their relationships while confronting the rise of a militant empire. This empire, armed with advanced technology from an ancient alien civilization, seeks to impose a rigid order on the disparate colonies of humans. The crew must navigate political intrigue, shifting alliances, and the moral complexities of war to protect the fragile balance of power and prevent the solar system from plunging into tyranny.

    The 10651st Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. Black Man by Richard Morgan

    "Black Man" by Richard Morgan (also published as "Thirteen" in the United States) is a futuristic science fiction novel set in a world where genetically engineered humans, known as "variants," exist alongside regular humans. The story follows Carl Marsalis, a former variant soldier who is now working as a private investigator. As he gets caught up in a series of murders, Carl must confront his own troubled past while navigating a society that fears and discriminates against him. This gripping and thought-provoking novel explores themes of identity, prejudice, and the consequences of scientific advancements.

    The 10683rd Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. Osama by Lavie Tidhar

    In this genre-blending novel, a private detective is drawn into a surreal world where pulp fiction and reality intertwine. Tasked with finding a mysterious woman who appears in countless books and films, the detective's journey takes him across a fragmented landscape, where he encounters alternate versions of historical events and figures. As he delves deeper, the boundaries between his own existence and the fictional world of a notorious terrorist begin to blur, leading to a haunting exploration of identity, myth, and the nature of truth.

    The 10714th Greatest Book of All Time

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