Did you love the Dune books? Have you just finished watching Dune 2 and are looking for more science fiction adventures? If so I’m here to help!
If you were swept away by the grandeur of Frank Herbert’s Dune, then you’re probably itching for more epic adventures and intricate worlds to explore. I’ve compiled this list of other science fiction books that’ll keep that Dune magic alive and kicking! Here are some gems to add to your reading list.
The Dune saga is vast and complex and you might not realise quite how many books are in the series (there are 23!)
Frank Herbert wrote six books in the original Dune series, and after his death, his son Brian Herbert and author Kevin J Anderson took over the reigns.
This four-part space opera series boasts a vast and complex universe, much like Dune. It follows a group of pilgrims on a mind-bending journey across the galaxy, to a mysterious time tomb on the planet Hyperion.
The story explores themes of religion, humanity, and artificial intelligence, similar to Dune.
This classic series by the “Grand Master of Science Fiction”, Isaac Asimov, follows a group of scientists who predict the fall of a galactic empire and establish a foundation to preserve knowledge and shorten the dark ages.
The Foundation series delves into galactic empires, political maneuvering, and the power of knowledge, echoing the themes of power struggles and resource control in Dune.
This award-winning novel explores themes of gender, diplomacy, and cultural difference. Set on a planet where the inhabitants change sex throughout their lives, it challenges societal norms and explores complex human relationships.
If you found yourself captivated by the intricate societal structures of Dune, then you’ll appreciate The Left Hand of Darkness for its intriguing cultural dynamics. It’s a compelling read that offers a depth of world building and exploration akin to Herbert’s masterpiece.
This award-winning series by Arkady Martine takes place in a vast interstellar empire with complex political intrigue.
It explores themes of cultural identity, colonialism, and language. While lighter on action than Dune, it offers a richly detailed world and a thought-provoking story.
The Red Mars Trilogy tells the story of the first human colonists on Mars. It explores the challenges of colonising another planet, the formation of a new society, and the impact of humanity on a new environment.
Red Mars takes a more grounded approach compared to Dune’s more fantastical elements, however it still offers a thought-provoking exploration of humanity’s quest to explore and inhabit new worlds.
The Book of the New Sun by Gene Wolfe is a science fantasy series spanning four novels. It unfolds in a distant future where the dying sun casts a shadow over a decaying Earth.
While both explore complex worlds and political intrigue, Dune is a more accessible and action-oriented story, while The Book of the New Sun is a challenging and rewarding read for those who appreciate complex narratives and dense worldbuilding.
The Expanse series is a space saga that spans numerous novels and takes readers into a future where humanity has colonised the solar system. Admist looming conflict between Earth, Mars, and the Belt, the series follows a diverse cast of characters navigating political turmoil, interstellar tensions, and enigmatic discoveries.
Similar to Dune, The Expanse series has a grand scale, intricate world-building, and multifaceted characters.
Summary
Whether you’re seeking political intrigue, cosmic adventure or philosophical ponderings, hopefully this list will inspire your next sci-fi read!
