A Memory Called Empire | FAQ & 13 Books Like It

A Memory Called Empire | FAQ & 13 Books Like It

March 31, 2024
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Written by: the NextBook team
Hey there! So you've landed here because you've got questions about A Memory Called Empire, right? Well, you're in the right place! As an avid reader who dove headfirst into the world of Arkady Martine's brilliant debut novel, I'm here to give you the lowdown and answer all those burning questions you might have. First things first, let me give you a little taste of what this book is all about. A Memory Called Empire is a captivating blend of political intrigue, futuristic technology, and rich cultural exploration. Set in the sprawling Teixcalaanli Empire, it follows the journey of Mahit Dzmare, a young ambassador who must navigate the treacherous waters of imperial politics while preserving her own identity. Trust me, it's a rollercoaster of a read, with twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat! Now, I know what you're thinking, "If I loved A Memory Called Empire, what should I read next?" Well, fear not! I've got your back. In the upcoming paragraphs, I'll be dishing out some fantastic book recommendations that capture the same essence of political intrigue, cultural exploration, and gripping storytelling that made A Memory Called Empire a page-turner. So stay tuned, my friend!
The Book Cover Image for A Memory Called Empire
The Book Cover Image for A Memory Called Empire
Science Fiction
Fantasy
Adventure

Dune

"Dune" is a sweeping science fiction epic set in a distant future where interstellar politics, religion, and ecology collide on the desert planet of Arrakis. It follows the journey of Paul Atreides as he navigates treacherous power struggles and seeks to fulfill his destiny as the messiah figure of a desert-dwelling faction.
Author
Frank Herbert
Year Written
1965
Read Time
Dune
Science Fiction
Futuristic

The Three-Body Problem

The Three-Body Problem by Cixin Liu is a compelling science fiction novel that delves into the complexities of humanity's encounter with an alien civilization, threatening the fate of Earth. Through thought-provoking concepts and a gripping narrative, it offers a captivating exploration of science and survival.
Author
Cixin Liu
Year Written
2008
Read Time
8h49m
The Three-Body Problem
Science Fiction
Cyberpunk
Dystopian

Snow Crash

"Snow Crash" is a thrilling science fiction novel set in a dystopian future where a virtual reality metaverse and an ancient language virus threaten to immerse society into chaos. Protagonist Hiro Protagonist, a pizza deliveryman and skilled hacker, embarks on a dangerous journey to uncover the truth behind these technological forces and save the world from imminent destruction.
Author
Neal Stephenson
Year Written
1992
Read Time
Snow Crash
Dystopian
Epic
Science Fiction

Foundation

"Foundation" is a science fiction classic that explores the decline and fall of a galactic empire through the eyes of a group of scholars. With the power of psychohistory, they try to ensure the survival of human knowledge and civilization amidst political turmoil.
Author
Isaac Asimov
Year Written
1951
Read Time
Foundation
Science Fiction
Gender
Identity

The Left Hand of Darkness

"The Left Hand of Darkness" is a groundbreaking science fiction novel that explores themes of gender, identity, and politics. Set on a planet called Gethen, the story follows the journey of an ambassador as he navigates a society where individuals are neither male nor female, challenging his own assumptions and societal norms.
Author
Ursula K. Le Guin
Year Written
1969
Read Time
The Left Hand of Darkness
Space Opera
Science Fiction
Artificial Intelligence

Ancillary Justice

Ancillary Justice is a captivating space opera where a former AI starship seeks vengeance and grapples with questions of identity and morality in a far-reaching interstellar empire.
Author
Ann Leckie
Year Written
2013
Read Time
8h30m
Ancillary Justice
Science Fiction
Epic
Adventure

Hyperion

"Hyperion" is a science fiction epic that follows a group of pilgrims on an interstellar journey to the mysterious planet of Hyperion. It weaves together tales of each character's past, present, and future, creating a rich and captivating narrative filled with suspense, mystery, and philosophical musings.
Author
Dan Simmons
Year Written
1989
Read Time
Hyperion
Space Opera
Military science fiction
Intrigue

Ninefox Gambit

Ninefox Gambit, written by Yoon Ha Lee, is a captivating military science fiction novel that combines intricate world-building with thrilling plot twists as a brilliant tactician teams up with a dangerous ghost to confront a rebellious fortress. With its unique blend of strategy and intrigue, this book will keep readers engaged from start to finish.
Author
Yoon Ha Lee
Year Written
2016
Read Time
6h30m
Ninefox Gambit
Mystery
Space Opera

Leviathan Wakes

Leviathan Wakes is an engrossing space opera that follows a hardened detective and a rogue spaceship captain as they uncover a conspiracy that could lead to interplanetary war. Set in a captivating future, this thrilling novel intertwines high-stakes politics, intense action, and intriguing mystery to create an immersive reading experience.
Author
James S.A. Corey
Year Written
2011
Read Time
11h34m
Leviathan Wakes
Cyberpunk
Science Fiction
Dystopian

Neuromancer

"Neuromancer" is a mind-bending science fiction masterpiece that takes readers on a thrilling journey through a gritty and technologically advanced dystopia. With its vivid descriptions and captivating characters, it explores themes of artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and the blurred boundaries between humanity and technology.
Author
William Gibson
Year Written
1984
Read Time
Neuromancer
Science Fiction
Social Commentary
Utopian

The Dispossessed

"The Dispossessed" by Ursula K. Le Guin is a thought-provoking exploration of utopian ideals and the complexities of societal structures, set in the contrasting worlds of Anarres and Urras. Le Guin's masterful storytelling challenges conventional notions of power, freedom, and belonging, making it a seminal work of science fiction literature.
Author
Ursula K. Le Guin
Year Written
1974
Read Time
6h22m
The Dispossessed
Science Fiction
Environmentalism
Space Opera

Red Mars

Red Mars is an engrossing novel by Kim Stanley Robinson that takes readers on an unforgettable journey to the red planet, exploring the triumphs and hurdles faced by a group of scientists and their struggle to transform Mars into a habitable world. It combines intricate scientific detail with captivating storytelling, delving into the social and political implications of colonizing a new frontier in space.
Author
Kim Stanley Robinson.
Year Written
1992
Read Time
10h25m
Red Mars
Fantasy
Historical
Magic

City of Brass

City of Brass is an enchanting tale set in 18th century Cairo, blending history with fantasy as a young con artist uncovers a hidden world of djinn and embarks on a treacherous journey to the mythical city of Daevabad. Filled with political intrigue, magical powers, and complex characters, this book takes readers on an enthralling adventure through a richly imagined Middle Eastern landscape.
Author
S. A. Chakraborty
Year Written
2017
Read Time
11h27m
City of Brass

FAQ

Overview

In the bustling world of A Memory Called Empire, Mahit Dzmare, a young ambassador from a small space station, finds herself being thrown into a torrent of political intrigue when she is tasked with representing her home in the Teixcalaanli Empire. And boy, oh boy, is this empire something special. It’s massive, it’s powerful, and it’s got a history as thick as the fog on a humid morning. As Mahit tries to navigate the treacherous waters of Teixcalaanli politics, she teams up with Three Seagrass, a wise and enigmatic poet, who helps her unlock the empire's mysteries, all while Mahit battles to preserve her own identity. But the plot thickens, my friend. Yskandr Aghavn, the previous ambassador that Mahit is replacing, turns up dead, prompting questions and raising eyebrows. Suddenly, Mahit's mission takes a dangerous turn as she delves into a web of secrets and conspiracy, with Nine Hibiscus, the Emperor's powerful advisor, holding the key to everything. All the while, Mahit must find a way to outwit Twelve Azalea, a ruthless general who threatens to crush her ambitions. It's a gripping tale of power, identity, and survival that will leave you on the edge of your seat, eager for more twists and turns.

Length of Read

8h

Main Characters

- Mahit Dzmare: A young ambassador from a small space station, she is thrust into the complex world of the Teixcalaanli Empire and must navigate its political intrigues while preserving her own identity. - Three Seagrass: A savvy and mysterious poet, she becomes Mahit's ally and guide, offering her insights into the empire's power dynamics and secrets. - Yskandr Aghavn: The former ambassador Mahit is sent to replace, his sudden death raises suspicions and sets off a chain of events that Mahit must unravel. - Nine Hibiscus: The Emperor's powerful and enigmatic chief counselor, she holds the key to many secrets and plays a crucial role in the unfolding plot. - Twelve Azalea: A ruthless and ambitious general, she is a formidable opponent and poses a significant threat to Mahit's mission. - The Teixcalaanli Empire: The sprawling and dominant empire, it is a character in its own right, with its rich history, complex traditions, and insidious allure.

Ending & Meaning

Hold on tight, because we're diving into the ending of A Memory Called Empire! In the final stretch, Mahit Dzmare uncovers a shocking truth about the Teixcalaanli Empire and its plans to assimilate her beloved home station. With the clock ticking and danger looming, Mahit must summon every ounce of her wit and courage to outmaneuver her adversaries and protect her people. Now, let's talk themes and meanings, my friend. One powerful theme that emerges from this thrilling conclusion is the struggle to preserve one's identity in the face of a dominant culture. Mahit, a proud ambassador from a small space station, grapples with the allure and pressure of the Teixcalaanli Empire, ultimately realizing the importance of staying true to herself and her roots. Another theme is the price of power and the lengths people will go to maintain it. As Mahit unravels the empire's secrets, she witnesses the machinations and sacrifices made by those in positions of authority, reminding us that power can be a double-edged sword. A Memory Called Empire invites readers to reflect on the complexities of identity, the pursuit of power, and the choices we make in the face of adversity.
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