Related
If you're looking for display inspiration or need to update your collection, check out these short science fiction and fantasy reads. Also included, a downloadable spreadsheet of 50 titles to keep your display stocked.
The collection’s wide range of international authors means it has something to offer everyone. Recommended for libraries with strong SFF collections and readers who enjoy short fiction.
PREMIUM
Saturnalia
Fans of intricate worldbuilding, urban fantasy, and apocalyptic stories will be hooked. An excellent addition to any audio fantasy collection.
PREMIUM
The First Men in the Moon
This charming listen is perfect for libraries looking to add classic sci-fi to their collections.
This is The Love Story of Missy Carmichael with fairies and snow. A sure win for believers in the value of story.
Listeners of the series’ prior audiobook will already be clamoring for this one. Purchase multiple copies, and rest assured that patrons will be delighted.
PREMIUM
A Fractured Infinity
A fast-paced, character-driven queer sci-fi romance that shows how far someone will go to be with the one they love.
PREMIUM
Meru
This book will appeal to science fiction readers who appreciate meticulous worldbuilding and learning about societies that are governed by a set of axioms. This impressive audio is a must-add for any science fiction collection.
An essential buy for modern-fantasy collections. Share with fans of Emily Tesh’s Silver in the Wood or Ellen Klages’s Passing Strange.
PREMIUM
All the Horses of Iceland
With a run time of slightly over two hours, there is little risk and great reward for trying out this audio gem.
PREMIUM
No Gods for Drowning
Piper’s world has a deep backstory to wade through, but the thriller elements, plus the drama of multiple encroaching disasters, keep the novel sailing to a thought-provoking and satisfying conclusion.
PREMIUM
The Union
Although the narrative occasionally feels forced, the story is uplifted by the emotionally affective narration, which brings out the nuances in Vernon’s engaging characters.
PREMIUM
Fourth Wing
A good selection for fans of Naomi Novik’s “Scholomance” series; will fly off the shelves.
PREMIUM
Not Alone
Ecologist Jackson makes her debut with this engrossing postapocalyptic cli-fi thriller that will have readers anxiously turning the pages and questioning their use of plastic.
PREMIUM
A Crown of Ivy and Glass
Best-selling YA author Legrand’s (Lightbringer) first novel for adults is full of high stakes for her characters and detailed fantasy worldbuilding with interesting mythology for readers. It will appeal to older teens and adults.
PREMIUM
The Archive Undying
Will appeal to readers who like their giant robots paired with explorations of emotional intimacy and moving forward after trauma. A good purchase for large SFF collections.
PREMIUM
Fractal Noise
Those daunted by the 800+ pages of the first in this series, To Sleep in a Sea of Stars, will find this a comparably brief read, and it works well as an excellent starting point for the series as a whole.
Stewart’s final book in “The Drowning Empire” trilogy (following The Bone Shard Emperor) is an epic and emotional end to the series.
PREMIUM
Spring’s Arcana
There’s much to savor here for readers looking for a deeper dive into the same legends as those in The Witch and the Tsar by Olesya Salnikova Gilmore, but in a more contemporary setting. Also a good choice for readers seeking stories imbued with the sensibilities of urban fantasy, like The Book of Night by Holly Black.
PREMIUM
Whether Violent or Natural
Calder (The Offset) tells a unique tale that will appeal to many cli-fi fans, though some may be put off by the leisurely pacing and introspective storytelling.
PREMIUM
The Blood Gift
“The Blood Gift” duology concludes with a dramatic, action-filled story (a sequel to The Blood Trials).
A lovely duology that invokes the charm of The Last Unicorn while extending the magic of the original into a bigger world. Highly recommended for lovers of Beagle’s classic, who are legion.
PREMIUM
Engines of Chaos
Constant peril and charged action sequences propel this high-octane steampunk thriller forward at break-neck speed. The solid writing and engaging plot establish a fully realized world with diverse magic systems mixed with artifice. Perfect for fans of Brian McClellan and Tyler Whitesides.
PREMIUM
Demons of Good and Evil
The latest in the “Hollows” series, after Trouble with the Cursed, contains all the magical action, emotional tension, and snippy dialogue that fans adore.
PREMIUM
The Shadow Cabinet
The second book of the series, after Her Majesty’s Royal Coven, is filled with witty dialogue, pop culture references, and features the bonds of childhood, sisterhood, and fighting for what one believes in.
PREMIUM
Not of This World
A blast for urban-fantasy readers looking for a broken fourth wall riddled with dry-witted commentary, evil getting its just deserts, and the good walking away to fight the good fight.
Will keep audiences enthralled to the end. Highly recommended for readers of alternate history, those who enjoy re-examinations of classics, and fans of Cogman’s “Invisible Library” series.
PREMIUM
Myriad
Like a Mission Impossible or a Minority Report with the addition of time-travel. Readers of sci-fi will enjoy this new take on a classic idea from Bellin (Scarred City).
PREMIUM
March’s End
The battles of politics and war give a real feeling of tension and life to this novel. Readers who enjoy the political complexity and epic battles of A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin as well as the classic fantasy of The Nutcracker will enjoy this stand-alone.
PREMIUM
Twice Cursed: An Anthology
Some of the stories merely sidle up to the line between dark fantasy and horror, and some stake their oozing, bleeding hearts with it, but all bring a shiver of fear, dread, or understanding.
Dawson mashes up history, fantasy, and the magic of the circus in an emotionally immersive, character-driven story.
PREMIUM
For the First Time, Again
The final volume of Neuvel’s generational alien conflict (following Until the Last of Me) takes the space race in new directions.
Malkasian’s “once upon a time” parable infuses a Handmaid’s Tale–type set-up with surrealistic charm and bittersweet resolution, reminiscent of Studio Ghibli’s work. Highly recommended for fantasy connoisseurs.
Highly recommended for lovers of woman-forward SF/F and any reader still waiting for that wardrobe to open.
PREMIUM
The Cleaving
McKenna (The Green Man’s Gift) tells a compelling new story from an old tale that is timely, giving the women of Arthur’s heroic tale a voice and place in this world. Give to fans of Michael J. Sullivan and David Dalglish who appreciate stories with swordplay, revenge, and medieval adventure.
PREMIUM
Dual Memory
This rollicking thriller from Burke (Immunity Index) moves at a fast pace but manages to maintain its focus on the true threats of climate change and human hubris, all the while keeping readers riveted and entertained.
PREMIUM
Witch King
After the rousing success of “The Murderbot Diaries,” Wells has returned to her fantasy roots in a tale of revolt, rebellion, and betrayal. Readers looking for more Murderbot may be disappointed, but fantasy readers looking for new worlds and characters to explore will be enthralled.
PREMIUM
The Warden
Ford (Cheap Heat) begins an appealing new fantasy series filled with adventure, action, and old magic.
PREMIUM
Backpacking Through Bedlam
Following on Spelunking Through Hell, this latest installment in the “InCryptid” series continues to highlight the fast action, delightful cryptids and the gloriously dysfunctional family dynamics the Prices are known for. Urban fantasy fans will rejoice.
PREMIUM
The Thick and the Lean
The two storylines in Porter’s (The Seep) latest, particularly Beatrice’s story of accepting herself for who she is and what she loves in spite of everything, will make readers hunger for more.
PREMIUM
The Golden Enclaves
Should satisfy Novik’s many fans and appeal to mature fans of Harry Potter, dark-fantasy lovers, and those who enjoyed Lev Grossman’s The Magicians.
PREMIUM
On the Marble Cliffs
More than a mere roman à clef about Hitler or Stalin (or both), Jünger’s vivid and evocative narrative transcends its moment in capturing the ageless struggle between our individuality and creative wonder, and the darkness and terror sure to follow when people abandon themselves to belief, even if only to a belief in nothing.
The beautiful, spare narration from Kris as she struggles with grief and motherhood delivers a deep emotional punch, lightened by dry humor and the hope in human connection. For fans of Emily St. John Mandel’s Station Eleven and Veronica Roth’s Poster Girl.
PREMIUM
The Deep Sky
Readers will be engaged by the mystery and suspense and find familiarity and connection in the humanity of Asuka and the journey of The Phoenix.
PREMIUM
Head Cleaner
Once it gets going, Keaton’s (She Was Found in a Guitar Case) novel is a nonstop thrill ride blending science fiction, horror, and a lot of humor. For readers who enjoy Chuck Palahniuk and Lauren Beukes.
PREMIUM
Spells for Forgetting
In her adult debut, YA novelist Young (“Fallen City” duology; Sky in the Deep) combines romance and mystery on an island with mystical powers in a story that is sure to appeal to current fans and new readers.
PREMIUM
Hel’s Eight
Holborn’s blend of gritty Western and science fiction set in the stark landscape of a barren moon is the sequel to Ten Low that fans have been waiting for. Certainly the novel’s centerpiece are its action sequences, but its heart lies in Ten, her ragtag band, and their redemptive and hopeful attempts at survival.
A gritty, dystopian story and an all too real and possible exploration of the dangers of continuous surveillance and the spread of disinformation.
PREMIUM
A Touch of Moonlight
Ray and Larimar’s romance is lovely, as is the inclusion of Dominican lore, culture, and recipes.
Langbein explores what it means to belong, how the shape of identity can morph and change, and just how hard it can be to hold onto the core of your being when everyone around you is pushing you to change.
PREMIUM
Weyward
The three timelines and the compelling stories of each of the women intertwine and are layered with the natural magic that runs through the female line of the Weyward family
PREMIUM
The Ice Sings Back
Jackson’s eco-thriller conveys the claustrophobia and power of the wilderness in which Amelia is lost and creates a creeping dread as each woman picks through her piece of the puzzle.
PREMIUM
To Shape a Dragon’s Breath
Blackgoose blends Indigenous history with fantastical beasts, taking themes of inequality and social agency in new directions. An excellent crossover novel for adults and young adults alike.
PREMIUM
Quantum Radio
Eclectic author Riddle (Lost in Time) combines science and history to create a riveting thriller.
This Hindu-inspired sci-fi fantasy is a transcendent debut, full of cosmic magic and set in an exquisitely glorious and treacherous world. Such a daring ecological and metaphysical endeavor is perfect for fans of Wesley Chu and Brandon Sanderson.
PREMIUM
The Cage of Dark Hours
Fans of the first book in the series will want to read this next installment as more myths are unveiled, building toward the final book.
PREMIUM
Poor Man’s Sky
The story combines the thrill of nascent space exploration with the challenge of a murder mystery to excellent effect.
Readers who loved Klune’s (Under the Whispering Door) previous works will find plenty of the author’s trademark charm, heart, and bittersweetness, while those looking for more hopeful robot stories, like A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers, will find this interpretation of a robot-future different but just as compelling.
PREMIUM
Damsel
Skye creates an atmospheric world that allows readers to immerse themselves in Elodie’s struggle to survive. Great for fans of Kiera Cass’s “The Selection” series and Victoria Aveyard’s “The Red Queen” series.
Zinging one-liners, familiar superhero tropes with hilarious twists, and defying the world’s expectations to be your authentic self combine to make this an appealing tale for older teens and adults. Be prepared to giggle at dinosaur antics and get teary-eyed as Rex comes into her own.
Drake’s (Fighting Kat) new novel is highly recommended for lovers of fantasy romance and urban fantasy rooted in myths and legends.
PREMIUM
Nothing but the Rain
Recommended for readers who prefer their apocalypses amorphous and like their chills of horror to come from the implications of the unknown.
PREMIUM
The Immortal Detective
Unevenly joining a slow-paced police procedural with a vampire dramedy of manners and blood, this novel isn’t an essential purchase.
A bold story of sisterhood, societal expectations, and the lengths women may be willing to travel for love and freedom. Fans of Alix E. Harrow’s The Once and Future Witches will find this fierce and folkloric tale a terrific read.
PREMIUM
Meru
This is a thrilling combination of traditional SF space travel and forward-thinking examinations of what “humanity” will mean in the future. With its blend of science fiction and social justice concepts, this will appeal to advanced teen and adult readers alike who enjoy progressive science fiction.
PREMIUM
Loki’s Ring
A purchase for large SFF collections, Leicht’s (Persephone Station) latest may appeal to fans of the “NeoG” series from K.B. Wagers.
PREMIUM
Camp Zero
An enjoyable read for those who like eco-dystopian novels. Give this to fans of Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel and Oryx and Crake by Margaret Atwood.
PREMIUM
A Portrait in Shadow
Jarvis brings the city of Florence to life, including many of its well-known residents. However, fantasy readers will wish she had spent more time building the magical aspects of her world. A good choice for fans of historical fiction authors such as Susan Vreeland and Tracy Chevalier.
PREMIUM
Red Team Blues
This absorbing and ruthless cyberpunk thriller from Doctorow (Attack Surface) tackles modern concerns involving cryptocurrency, security, and the daunting omnipotence of technology. Great for fans of Charles Stross.
PREMIUM
The Iron Princess
As she attempts to redeem her world, the adventures of the Iron Princess will keep readers engrossed in this cleverly plotted novel. Fans of fantasy and particularly of Hambly’s (Prisoner of Midnight) complex and often enchanting style are certain to enjoy this imaginative story and its heroine.
PREMIUM
The Queen’s Price
A fine continuation of the “Black Jewels” series, keeping the legacy alive with its tangled web of family and power. Bishop’s devoted fans will devour this, while readers of Nalini Singh and Ilona Andrews who enjoy high fantasy may want to start this series from the beginning.
PREMIUM
The Foxglove King
Whitten’s (For the Throne) new novel showcases her witty dialogue and captivating prose. Romantic fantasy fans will enjoy this and await the next in the series.
PREMIUM
Conquer the Kingdom
Estep lands solidly with her last book of the “Gargoyle Queen” trilogy (after Tear Down the Throne), capping off a delightful romantic fantasy in her growing world.
PREMIUM
Liar City
This promising series opener is packed with action, interesting metaphysical abilities, and a fully realized world with political divisions that feel relevant to the current political climate. The developing romance is likely too subtle for romance readers, but urban fantasy fans will be thrilled with the possibilities for future entries.
Gladstone (Ruin of Angels) launches a new series that will end his Craft saga (begun with the “Craft Sequence” series). This will not only be relished by fans of the previous books but might also make a terrific starting point for new readers.
PREMIUM
Ascension
An exciting story where the undiscovered wonders of Earth prove as exciting as those out in the galaxy.
PREMIUM
Sand
Howey’s imaginative novel, which brings to mind the wrecked world of Mad Max, should appeal to fans of Paolo Bacigalupi’s The Windup Girl and C.A. Fletcher’s A Boy and His Dog at the End of the World.
Witches, spaceships, and dragons appear in the most spellbinding and thrilling science fiction and fantasy books of 2022.
PREMIUM
Barrow of Winter
This novel from Long (Temple of No God) is a self-contained story that can be read without reading the previous titles set in the same universe, but readers will definitely want to seek out the others. Fans of character-centric fantasy with a well-built world will find much to love about Thray, the Hall of Smoke world, and its denizens.
PREMIUM
The Phantom Scientist
A puzzle, a panopticon, and an invitation to seek answers even as obstructions abound, this is an engaging, dryly funny read for armchair philosophers, disillusioned academics, and the unceasingly curious.
A fast-paced, unpredictable, and utterly original story rendered in delicate linework and vibrant color.
This enchanting book is perfect for readers who love The Princess Bride, Ella Enchanted, and other whimsical fantasy stories. Filled with heroes, noble quests, magical creatures, curses, and unforgettable characters, it is an unforgettable listen for all ages.
PREMIUM
The Book Eaters
This is the type of dark fantasy that breaks out of the genre and into popular culture. Beautiful and intense, it is a must-listen.
PREMIUM
The Witch and the Tsar
Kapustin’s deft narration combined with Gilmore’s intriguing rendition of the often maligned Baba Yaga makes for an enchanting listen.
PREMIUM
Thistlefoot
Outstanding narration and an enchanting story line make this book a must-buy for all audio collections. Recommend to listeners who enjoy fiction with a fairy tale twist, such as that found in Rena Rossner’s The Sisters of the Winter Wood or Olesya Salnikova Gilmore’s The Witch and the Tsar.
PREMIUM
The Awoken
This audiobook is a disappointment to sci-fi fans but may interest some patrons hoping to dip their toes into a new genre.
PREMIUM
Her Majesty’s Royal Coven
Readers looking to start an engaging fantasy series filled with magic, friendship, and feminism should start here. Dawson’s following among YA readers promises strong crossover appeal.
PREMIUM
A Strange and Stubborn Endurance
Recommended for readers looking for an absorbing queer fantasy, complete with intricate world-building, tantalizing mystery, and a slow-burn, tender romance.
PREMIUM
High Times in the Low Parliament
Recommended for fans of fantasy, quirky characters, and political satire.
PREMIUM
Intergalactic Exterminators, Inc
This largely misses the mark. Libraries may want to take a pass.
PREMIUM
The Art of Prophecy
Clocking in at almost 19 hours, this is a hefty book, but listeners will be captivated by the intricate worldbuilding and satisfying character development. An engrossing series starter that is highly recommended for fans of Ken Liu, Yong Jin, and Nghi Vo.
PREMIUM
Bindle Punk Bruja
Recommend to Jazz Age aficionados, as well as readers of historical fantasy.
PREMIUM
Ten Thousand Stitches
Atwater’s second book in the “Regency Faerie Tale” series (after Half a Soul) is a fanciful and funny romp, with plenty of twists and turns to keep listeners guessing. Perfect for fans of The Midnight Bargain by C.L. Polk.
PREMIUM
The Mountain in the Sea
This slow-burning novel strikes a balance between hard- and soft-speculative fiction without being too heady or obtuse and would be a sound addition to any library’s collection.
articles
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER? LOG IN
We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER? LOG IN
Thank you for visiting.
We’ve noticed you are using a private browser. To continue, please log in or create an account.
