Best Space Fleet Science Fiction Books of 2026

Star Wars Jedi: Battle Scars is a thrilling adventure set between Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order and Star Wars Jedi: Survivor. The story follows Cal Kestis and the Stinger Mantis crew as they pursue a potentially invaluable tool for their fight against the Empire, but in doing so, they cross paths with the dangerous Inquisitor known as the Fifth Brother. Author Sam Maggs delivers a gripping tale full of action and suspense that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Overall, Star Wars Jedi: Battle Scars is a must-read for fans of the franchise and those who love science fiction adventures.

Saga: Compendium One is a must-read for fans of science fiction graphic novels. This compendium collects the first nine volumes of the New York Times bestselling series, featuring over 1,300 pages of gorgeously graphic full-color artwork. The story follows a girl named Hazel and her star-crossed parents, telling the entire story (so far!). The new cover from Eisner Award-winning SAGA co-creator FIONA STAPLES adds an extra touch of beauty to the already stunning artwork. Overall, this compendium is an incredible binge-read and a fantastic addition to any graphic novel collection.

Death's End is the thrilling conclusion to the Three-Body Problem trilogy and a must-read for fans of hard science fiction. The story takes place half a century after the Doomsday Battle, where Earth and Trisolaris have reached an uneasy balance. But when aerospace engineer Cheng Xin awakens from hibernation, her knowledge of a long-forgotten program may upset this delicate balance. Will humanity reach for the stars or die in its cradle? With a unique blend of scientific and philosophical speculation, politics, and history, this book is a true masterpiece of the genre.

Star Wars: Thrawn Ascendancy (Book I: Chaos Rising) by Timothy Zahn is the first book in an exciting new trilogy that delves into the origins of Thrawn within the Chiss Ascendancy. The story takes place in the Unknown Regions, a chaotic and uncharted part of the galaxy, where the Chiss and their Nine Ruling Families reside. When the Chiss capital is attacked, Thrawn is sent on a mission to uncover the culprits. With the help of Admiral Ar’alani, Thrawn faces hidden dangers in his quest to protect the Ascendancy. This book is a must-read for Star Wars fans and a great addition to Timothy Zahn’s impressive collection of Star Wars novels.

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.

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.

Lords of Uncreation is the thrilling final chapter of Adrian Tchaikovsky's space opera trilogy, The Final Architecture. The book follows humanity's struggle for survival as they face extinction and one man's discovery that could either save or destroy them. With its high-octane action and well-crafted characters, Tchaikovsky delivers a satisfying conclusion to the series. Science fiction fans will appreciate the unique world-building and intricate plot twists that make this book stand out from other space operas.

Star Wars: Thrawn Ascendancy (Book III: Lesser Evil) (Star Wars: The Ascendancy Trilogy) is the epic finale of the Thrawn Ascendancy trilogy from Timothy Zahn. The fate of the Chiss Ascendancy hangs in the balance as the stability of the Nine Ruling Families is eroded by a cunning foe. Thrawn will delve deep into the past to uncover dark secrets surrounding the ascension of the First Ruling Family, but the truth may be a lie. Will Thrawn sacrifice everything to secure the salvation of the Ascendancy? The book is a must-read for fans of Star Wars and science fiction adventures.

Harrow the Ninth, the second book in The Locked Tomb Series by Tamsyn Muir, is a mind-bending and twisty space adventure that continues the story of the Ninth House. Harrowhark Nonagesimus, the last necromancer of the Ninth House, is drafted by the Emperor to fight an unwinnable war, and she must confront the possibility of her own murder. With a gothic and haunted setting, this book is a puzzle box of mystery, murder, magic, and mayhem that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Overall, Harrow the Ninth is a unique and immersive book that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.