The Expanse | FAQ & 13 Books Like It

The Expanse | FAQ & 13 Books Like It

March 31, 2024
·
3 min
Written by: the NextBook team
Hey there, fellow space enthusiasts and science fiction lovers! If you're looking for a thrilling ride through the vastness of space, then buckle up because The Expanse is about to take you on an unforgettable journey. As a die-hard fan of the series myself, I can confidently say that you're in for a treat with this epic saga of political intrigue, interplanetary conflicts, and a dash of mystery sprinkled in for good measure. Set in a future where humanity has spread across the solar system, The Expanse follows a diverse cast of characters as they navigate the complexities of life beyond Earth. As you dive into The Expanse, you'll find yourself drawn into a world where factions vie for power, secrets lurk in the shadows, and the fate of humanity hangs in the balance. From James Holden's sense of justice to Naomi Nagata's unwavering resourcefulness, each character brings a unique perspective to the story, making for a truly engrossing read. Whether you're a fan of hard science fiction or simply love a good old-fashioned space opera, The Expanse offers a little something for everyone. If you're hungry for more riveting reads that capture the essence of The Expanse, stay tuned as I'll be sharing some book recommendations that are sure to satisfy your craving for interstellar adventures and thought-provoking storytelling. Get ready to expand your bookshelf and explore new worlds that will keep you on the edge of your seat, just like The Expanse did. Get ready to embark on a literary journey through the stars!
The Book Cover Image for The Expanse
The Book Cover Image for The Expanse
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
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
Science Fiction
Russian folklore
Intrigue

2312

2312 is an awe-inspiring science fiction novel by Kim Stanley Robinson, exploring a future where humanity has proliferated throughout the solar system, following the enthralling journey of Swan Er Hong as she unravels a complex conspiracy and grapples with the profound ramifications it holds for humankind's destiny.
Author
Kim Stanley Robinson
Year Written
2012
Read Time
9h37m
2312
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
Science Fiction
Young Adult
Military

Ender's Game

"Ender's Game" is a gripping science fiction novel that follows the story of Andrew "Ender" Wiggin, a young boy enlisted in an advanced military school in order to prepare for an impending alien invasion. As Ender navigates intense training, complex interpersonal relationships, and ethical dilemmas, the book explores themes of leadership, morality, and the effects of war on youth.
Author
Orson Scott Card.
Year Written
1985
Read Time
Ender's Game
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
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
Science Fiction
Space Opera
Extraterrestrial

Pandora's Star

Pandora's Star, written by Peter F. Hamilton, is an expansive space opera set in a future where humanity has unlocked the secrets of interstellar travel. As a mysterious alien artifact is discovered, it triggers a series of events that could endanger the entire human race.
Author
Peter F. Hamilton
Year Written
2004
Read Time
3h26m
Pandora's Star
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
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
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
Military
Futuristic

The Forever War

"The Forever War" is a gripping science fiction tale that chronicles the experiences of soldier William Mandella as he is drafted into an interstellar war against an enigmatic alien race. As Mandella contends with the devastating effects of time dilation and the profound changes both in himself and society, he wrestles with the question of what it truly means to be human.
Author
Joe Haldeman
Year Written
1974
Read Time
The Forever War

FAQ

Overview

The Expanse is a thrilling science fiction series that takes readers on a high-stakes journey through a richly imagined future solar system. Set against the backdrop of a divided humanity spread across Earth, Mars, and the asteroid belt, the story kicks off with a mysterious conspiracy that threatens to ignite a war with far-reaching consequences. The narrative weaves together elements of political intrigue, action-packed space battles, and complex interpersonal relationships, as a diverse cast of characters grapple with questions of power, morality, and survival in the unforgiving depths of space. What sets The Expanse apart is its meticulous attention to detail and world-building, creating a realistic and immersive universe that feels both futuristic and grounded in scientific possibility. Authors James S.A. Corey (the collective pseudonym of Daniel Abraham and Ty Franck) expertly blend elements of hard science fiction with fast-paced storytelling, offering readers a gripping fusion of high-octane adventure and speculative exploration. Whether you're drawn to gripping space operas or nuanced explorations of human nature, The Expanse offers a compelling and immersive reading experience that will leave you eager for the next installment in this epic saga.

Length of Read

9h36m

Main Characters

- James Holden: The reluctant hero and ship captain who always seems to find himself at the center of interplanetary conflicts, with a moral compass that guides him through the chaos of the universe. - Naomi Nagata: A brilliant engineer and voice of reason on the crew, whose past connections and skills prove invaluable in navigating the dangerous waters of politics and war. - Alex Kamal: The skilled pilot with a heart of gold and a knack for getting the crew out of tight spots, bringing humor and humanity to the often grim realities of space travel. - Amos Burton: The enigmatic and loyal mechanic whose dark past and unwavering loyalty make him a complex and intriguing character, offering a glimpse into the harsh realities of survival in the unforgiving expanse of space. - Chrisjen Avasarala: The sharp-tongued UN politician whose wit and cunning play a crucial role in the political machinations that shape the fate of humanity, proving that diplomacy can be just as powerful as a spacecraft in a universe on the brink of war.

Ending & Meaning

As The Expanse series comes to a close, it leaves readers with a powerful and thought-provoking ending that resonates long after the final page is turned. In a stunning revelation, humanity discovers the true purpose of the enigmatic protomolecule - a tool created by an ancient alien civilization to facilitate evolution and transcendence. This revelation forces humanity to confront its own limitations, biases, and the importance of unity in the face of existential threats. Through this realization, the series culminates in a poignant exploration of the potential for growth, change, and the enduring power of cooperation and empathy. The ending of The Expanse not only ties up the intricate plot threads and character arcs but also delves into deeper themes that provoke reflection and introspection. Themes of unity, understanding, and the consequences of our actions reverberate throughout the conclusion, serving as a reminder of the significance of overcoming differences and working together for the greater good. The series ultimately conveys a message of hope and resilience, emphasizing that humanity's ability to evolve and adapt lies in our capacity to transcend our limitations and embrace a future shaped by unity and compassion.
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