Best Colonization Science Fiction Books of 2026

Sea of Tranquility is a gripping novel that takes readers on a time-traveling journey from Vancouver Island in 1912 to a moon colony 500 years in the future. The story follows the lives of various characters whose paths intersect in unexpected ways, revealing the impact of their actions across centuries and space. The novel's exploration of art, love, and plague adds depth to the richly imagined world, while the author's skillful prose elevates the speculative fiction genre. Overall, Sea of Tranquility is a thought-provoking and satisfying read that showcases the author's talent for storytelling.

Children of Memory is an extraordinary space opera that continues the story of humanity's fight for survival on a terraformed planet. Adrian Tchaikovsky's intensely detailed and handily researched saga creates a deeply immersive narrative, spanning generations, species and galaxies. The novel is rich in wisdom and humanity, with a Stapledonian sweep and grandeur, making it a magnificent read. The book's big ideas and spectacular set pieces are underpinned by great ideas, making it a hugely satisfying sequel. Children of Memory is a must-read for anyone who enjoys sweeping, evolutionary-scale stories that feel classic without being mired in the past.

The final novel in James S.A. Corey’s epic science fiction series, Leviathan Falls, brings an end to the Laconian Empire and sets free the thirteen hundred solar systems from Winston Duarte's rule. However, the ancient enemy that killed the gate builders is awake, and the war against humanity has begun once again. As unimaginable forces prepare to annihilate all human life, James Holden and his crew, along with a group of unlikely allies, discover a last, desperate chance to unite all of humanity. This book is an all-time genre classic and a must-read for science fiction adventure fans.

The Forgotten Colony (A Zach Croft Novel) is a thrilling science fiction adventure that takes readers on a journey to Mars. Zach Croft, the protagonist, is forced to confront his past when a Prescott dropship crashes 23 years after the colony was thought to be destroyed. As he searches for answers, he discovers a glimmer of hope for humanity's survival. The book is a page-turner with vivid imagery of the Martian landscape and intense action scenes. Overall, this is a must-read for fans of the genre, and its unique take on the survival of the human race sets it apart from other science fiction adventures.

Horus Rising (1) (The Horus Heresy) is the first novel in the bestselling Horus Heresy series. The book tells the story of Warmaster Horus, who tries to carry out the Emperor's grand design while the seeds of heresy and rebellion have been sowed amongst his brothers. Written by Dan Abnett, the book has received critical acclaim for its gripping storytelling and vivid characters. The re-release of the mass market edition is a must-read for science fiction adventure fans, especially those interested in the Games Workshop brand. Overall, Horus Rising is an excellent start to a fantastic series that will keep readers engaged from beginning to end.

Eisenhorn: The Omnibus is a must-read for science fiction enthusiasts. This omnibus follows the career of Inquisitor Gregor Eisenhorn, a zealous upholder of the truth turned collaborator with the very powers he once swore to destroy. Gaunt’s Ghosts creator, Dan Abnett, masterfully blends detective story and interplanetary epic in this omnibus, which includes the novels Xenos, Malleus, Hereticus, and The Magos, as well as four short stories. Abnett’s writing is engaging and captivating, making the reader feel invested in the characters and their journey. Overall, this omnibus is a great addition to any science fiction collection.

Morning Star is the third book in the Red Rising Series. The story follows Darrow, who is determined to fight back against the Gold overlords that hanged his wife and enslaved his people. Darrow has battled to survive the cutthroat rivalries that breed Society’s mightiest warriors and climbed the ranks to unleash the revolution that will tear the hierarchy apart from within. But Darrow and his comrades-in-arms face powerful enemies without scruple or mercy, including some Darrow once considered friends. Morning Star is an excellent read for fans of war and military action fiction books. Brown's vivid, first-person prose puts the reader right at the forefront of impassioned speeches, broken families, and engaging battle scenes, making it a thrilling and satisfying conclusion to the series.

Artemis by Andy Weir is a thrilling heist story set in the first and only lunar colony, Artemis. The protagonist, Jazz, is a small-time smuggler who jumps at the chance to pull off a huge score and make some serious money. However, her plan soon lands her in the middle of a conspiracy for control of Artemis, putting her life in danger. Weir's writing is clever, suspenseful, and humorous, making it hard to put the book down. The unique setting and well-developed characters make Artemis a must-read for fans of science fiction and thrillers.

The Legends of the Dark Angels omnibus by Gav Thorpe and C Z Dunn is a great value collection of stories that explores the history of the Dark Angels, a clandestine Chapter of Space Marines in the Warhammer 40,000 universe. With four novels, one novella, and several short stories, this omnibus is a must-read for fans of the franchise. The tales are filled with heroes, including Supreme Grand Master Azrael, Chief Librarian Ezekiel, and Sergeant Balthasar. The stories follow the Dark Angels as they fight for the Emperor, atonement, and the greater glory of the Imperium. This omnibus is a unique and thrilling addition to the Science Fiction Adventures Books category.

The fourth installment in the NYT bestselling Expanse series, Cibola Burn, takes readers on a thrilling adventure as the crew of the Rocinante navigates the rush to colonize new planets, which threatens to spiral into chaos and war. The book is a Hugo Award winner for Best Series and is now a Prime Original series. Innocent scientists are killed, and independent settlers fight against a corporate colony ship, all while James Holden and his crew attempt to bring peace to the situation. Overall, Cibola Burn is a must-read for lovers of space opera and action-packed adventures.