Leviathan Wakes | FAQ & 13 Books Like It

Leviathan Wakes | FAQ & 13 Books Like It

March 31, 2024
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Written by: the NextBook team
Hey there, fellow book lovers! Are you ready to embark on a thrilling journey through the galaxy with "Leviathan Wakes"? Well, buckle up because you're in for a wild ride! As someone who devours sci-fi novels like a spacefaring adventurer on a quest for knowledge, I can't wait to delve into all things "Leviathan Wakes" with you. Whether you're a seasoned reader of the genre or a newcomer looking to explore new horizons, this FAQ session is the perfect pit stop to quench your thirst for interstellar tales. In this overview, we'll be diving headfirst into the gripping plot twists, the dynamic cast of characters, and the overarching themes that make "Leviathan Wakes" a standout in the sci-fi universe. Get ready to navigate political intrigue, encounter alien mysteries, and witness the resilience of the human spirit against the backdrop of a meticulously crafted future society. From space battles to moral dilemmas, this book has it all—and we're here to guide you through the labyrinth of questions that might arise as you delve deeper into its pages. And fear not, fellow adventurers, because the journey doesn't end with "Leviathan Wakes." In the upcoming segments, we'll be sharing a curated list of books that will transport you to worlds beyond your imagination, filled with epic adventures, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes similar to those found in "Leviathan Wakes." So fasten your seatbelts and get ready for a reading experience that will launch you into the stars and back!
The Book Cover Image for Leviathan Wakes
The Book Cover Image for Leviathan Wakes
Science Fiction
Thriller
Space Opera

Caliban's War

In "Caliban's War," tensions escalate between Earth, Mars, and the Outer Planets Alliance as a new deadly protomolecule threat emerges, testing the alliances formed in the previous book. The crew of the Rocinante is once again pulled into the heart of the conflict, facing dangerous enemies and moral dilemmas.
Author
James S. A. Corey
Year Written
2012
Read Time
9h42m
Caliban's War
Science Fiction
Space Opera
Action

The Expanse

The Expanse is a science fiction series that takes place in a future where humanity has spread across the solar system, following a diverse group of characters caught up in political conflicts and a mysterious alien presence. It combines elements of space opera, mystery, and adventure to create a rich and immersive story that explores the complexities of human nature and society.
Author
James S. A. Corey
Year Written
2011
Read Time
18h37m
The Expanse
Science Fiction
Dystopian
Adventure

Red Rising

"Red Rising" is a thrilling and intense science fiction novel set in a dystopian future where society is divided by color-coded castes. It follows the journey of Darrow, a young member of the lowest caste, as he infiltrates the ruling class to bring about revolution and equality.
Author
Pierce Brown
Year Written
2014
Read Time
Red Rising
Science Fiction
Military
Adventure

Old Man's War

Old Man's War, written by John Scalzi, is an intriguing and action-packed sci-fi adventure where senior citizens enlist in the interstellar military, gaining new bodies and an extraordinary chance at life to protect humanity's interests in the vastness of space. It explores themes of rejuvenation, loyalty, and the price of war in a captivating narrative that keeps readers hooked till the very end.
Author
John Scalzi.
Year Written
2005
Read Time
4h23m
Old Man's War
Space Opera
Science Fiction
Extraterrestrial

Revelation Space

Revelation Space, written by Alastair Reynolds, is a captivating science fiction novel that delves into an intricate and expansive universe where ancient secrets, complex characters, and advanced technology intertwine in a thrilling exploration of the unknown. With its intricate plot and richly imagined world, it combines mystery, intrigue, and scientific wonders to create an engrossing reading experience.
Author
Alastair Reynolds
Year Written
2000
Read Time
18h30m
Revelation Space
Science Fiction
Space Opera
Epic

Persepolis Rising

Persepolis Rising is the seventh book in the Expanse series, following the crew of the Rocinante as they navigate the political turmoil of a galaxy altered by the Laconian empire's rise to power. With tension rising and old enemies resurfacing, the crew must once again fight for the future of humanity.
Author
James S.A. Corey
Year Written
2017
Read Time
14h35m
Persepolis Rising
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
Fantasy
Mystery
Women

City of Stairs

City of Stairs is an engrossing novel that immerses readers in a world where gods once ruled and a murder investigation unravels the secrets of a fallen city. With captivating prose and intricate world-building, this book seamlessly weaves together themes of power, history, and the enduring force of faith.
Author
Jackson Bennett
Year Written
2014
Read Time
8h42m
City of Stairs
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
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
Dystopian
Space exploration
Mystery

Altered Carbon

In Altered Carbon, Takeshi Kovacs wakes up in a new body centuries after his death, tasked with solving a murder that leads him into a dangerous web of intrigue and corruption. This fast-paced cyberpunk novel explores themes of identity, immortality, and the dark underbelly of a future where consciousness can be transferred between bodies.
Author
Richard K. Morgan
Year Written
2002
Read Time
9h41m
Altered Carbon
Space Opera
Epic
Science Fiction

The Reality Dysfunction

The Reality Dysfunction is a sprawling space opera set in a future where humanity's exploration of the stars is threatened by a mysterious and dangerous force. The story weaves together rich world-building, complex characters, and epic battles as the fate of the galaxy hangs in the balance.
Author
Peter F. Hamilton
Year Written
1996
Read Time
28h45m
The Reality Dysfunction

The Martian

"The Martian" is a gripping and captivating science fiction novel that follows astronaut Mark Watney as he is left stranded on Mars and must rely on his knowledge, resourcefulness, and sheer willpower to survive. With a non-stop pace, sharp humor, and realistic scientific details, the book explores themes of human resilience, problem-solving, and the indomitable spirit of exploration.
Author
Andy Weir
Year Written
2011
Read Time
The Martian

FAQ

Overview

"Leviathan Wakes" by James S.A. Corey is a gripping science fiction novel that sets the stage for the captivating Expanse series. Set in a future where humanity has colonized the solar system, the story follows the intersecting paths of Jim Holden, a ship captain, and Detective Miller, a worn-out detective on Ceres Station. As they uncover a conspiracy that could lead to interplanetary war and encounter a mysterious alien entity known as the protomolecule, they are thrust into a high-stakes battle for survival that will test their loyalties and convictions. The novel masterfully weaves together elements of space opera, political intrigue, and hard science fiction, creating a fast-paced and immersive narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. With its vivid world-building, complex characters, and thought-provoking exploration of themes such as power, morality, and the consequences of human ambition, "Leviathan Wakes" is a must-read for fans of thrilling space adventures and nuanced storytelling.

Length of Read

11h34m

Main Characters

- James Holden: The charismatic and idealistic captain of the Rocinante, whose strong sense of justice often lands him in the middle of dangerous conflicts, driving the narrative forward. - Naomi Nagata: The brilliant engineer and second-in-command of the Rocinante, whose strategic thinking and loyalty to her crewmates play a crucial role in navigating the challenges they face. - Alex Kamal: The skilled pilot of the Rocinante, known for his humor and love of classic literature, adding levity and cultural references to the intense situations the crew finds themselves in. - Amos Burton: The tough and enigmatic mechanic of the Rocinante, whose complex past and unwavering loyalty to his crewmates bring a raw and unpredictable edge to the dynamics of the group. - Detective Miller: The hard-boiled detective on Ceres Station, whose relentless pursuit of the truth about the missing woman Julie Mao leads him on a collision course with Holden and the mysterious protomolecule, driving the investigation forward. Each character in "Leviathan Wakes" brings a unique set of skills, motivations, and personal histories to the table, creating a rich tapestry of personalities that drive the story forward and add layers of complexity to the unfolding events in the gripping narrative.

Ending & Meaning

In the heart-pounding conclusion of "Leviathan Wakes," the crew of the Rocinante faces off against the terrifying protomolecule, a powerful alien entity that threatens the very fabric of the solar system. Led by Captain James Holden, the crew races against time to prevent a catastrophic disaster, navigating treacherous waters and making tough decisions along the way. In a climactic showdown, they manage to thwart the protomolecule's destructive plans, but not without facing profound consequences that will shape their futures. One of the key themes that resonates in the ending of "Leviathan Wakes" is the exploration of the consequences of unchecked scientific advancement and the ethical dilemmas that arise when humanity tampers with forces beyond its control. The story delves into the complexities of morality, sacrifice, and the blurred lines between good and evil, as the characters grapple with the repercussions of their actions in a world teetering on the brink of chaos. Ultimately, the ending leaves readers pondering the fragility of existence and the enduring resilience of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming challenges.
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