Must-Read Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books Right Now (Fresh Picks You Shouldn’t Miss)

We’re deep into the year, and if you’re anything like me, your reading list has already taken on a life of its own.

Some of you are ahead of schedule, knocking out book after book like it’s nothing. Others (no judgment) are still staring at the same stack you made at the beginning of the year. Either way, this is usually the point where we start looking for something new, something that gets us excited to read again.

And that’s where lists like this come in.

One of the easiest ways to find your next read is by seeing what platforms like Amazon are highlighting. Their curated lists tend to mix big-name authors with newer voices, and while not every book will land for every reader, they’re a solid starting point if you’re trying to discover what’s trending in sci-fi and fantasy right now.

Because let’s be honest, most of us fall into the same habit.

We walk into a bookstore (or open up our favorite app), see a familiar author, and go with what we know. There’s nothing wrong with that. In fact, some of the best reading experiences come from sticking with authors you trust. But it also means we sometimes miss out on discovering someone new, someone who might end up becoming a favorite.

That’s what makes this list interesting.

It’s a mix of both. You’ve got one of the biggest names in fantasy right now, alongside authors who might not be on your radar yet. And if you’re looking to branch out a bit, this is the kind of list that can help you do that.

Let’s get into it.

Must-Read Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books Right Now

All the Water in the World by Eiren Caffall

This is one of those titles that immediately grabs your attention, even before you know what it’s about.

From what we’re seeing, All the Water in the World leans into speculative fiction with a strong environmental angle. These kinds of stories have been gaining traction recently, and for good reason. They take real-world concerns and push them just far enough into the future to explore the “what if” scenarios.

If you’re someone who enjoys sci-fi that feels grounded, something that could realistically happen, this is a book worth checking out. It’s also a good example of how the genre continues to evolve, focusing less on distant galaxies and more on the world we already live in.

Cold Storage (The Revival Series Book 2) by Michael C. Grumley

Jumping into the second book of a series can feel like a commitment, but sometimes that’s exactly what you need.

Cold Storage continues the story from Grumley’s Revival Series, blending science fiction with elements of suspense and thriller. This is the kind of book that tends to appeal to readers who like their sci-fi with a bit more tension, something that keeps you turning pages rather than slowing things down with heavy exposition.

If you’re already familiar with the first book, this is an easy addition to your list. And if you’re not, it might be worth starting from the beginning to fully appreciate where the story goes.

Lightfall: Book One of The Everlands by Ed Crocker

There’s always room for a new epic fantasy series, and Lightfall is trying to make its mark.

As the first book in a trilogy, this one sets the tone for what’s to come. Epic fantasy lives and dies by its world-building, and early impressions suggest that Crocker is aiming to create something immersive.

These are the kinds of books that require a bit of patience upfront but if they hit, they really hit. And for fantasy readers who love getting lost in a new world, starting a fresh series can be one of the most rewarding experiences.

Onyx Storm (The Empyrean Book 3) by Rebecca Yarros

At this point, Rebecca Yarros isn’t just popular, she’s everywhere.

The Empyrean series has quickly become one of the biggest names in fantasy, especially within the romantasy space. And Onyx Storm, as the third installment, is one of those releases that fans have been waiting on.

If you’ve read the first two books, you already know what you’re getting into: fast-paced storytelling, high-stakes relationships, and a world that keeps expanding.

And if you haven’t started the series yet, just know this, once you do, there’s a good chance you’ll fly through it faster than expected. These are the kinds of books people finish in a day or two without even realizing it.

Four Ruined Realms (The Broken Blades Book 2) by Mai Corland

Another sequel making the list, Four Ruined Realms builds on what Corland started in the first book.

Fantasy series like this tend to grow stronger as they go, especially once the groundwork has already been laid. That means more character development, higher stakes, and a deeper dive into the world.

If the first book caught your attention, this is the natural next step. And if you’re someone who prefers reading series once multiple books are out, this might be the perfect time to jump in.

Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor

Nnedi Okorafor is one of those authors who consistently brings something different to the table.

Her work often blends science fiction and fantasy with cultural elements that make her stories feel distinct. Death of the Author is no exception, and it’s one of the more intriguing titles on this list.

This is the kind of book that appeals to readers who want more than just plot. It’s about ideas, perspective, and the way stories are told. And if you’ve read any of Okorafor’s previous work, you already know she doesn’t take the conventional route.

Motheater by Linda H. Codega

This is one of the more under-the-radar picks, but sometimes those are the ones that end up surprising you the most.

Motheater feels like the kind of book that could go either way, it might stay niche, or it might build a strong following over time. Either way, it represents something important: the chance to discover a new voice.

And that’s really what lists like this are about.

Not just reinforcing what we already know, but giving us a reason to try something different.

Babylonia by Costanza Casati

Rounding out the list is Babylonia, a book that leans more into historical storytelling with speculative elements.

Fantasy doesn’t always have to mean dragons and magic systems. Sometimes it’s about reimagining history or exploring real-world settings through a different lens.

That’s where books like this stand out. They offer something familiar, but with a twist and for a lot of readers, that’s exactly what makes them interesting.

Why Lists Like This Matter

At the end of the day, no single list is going to define your reading year.

But what it can do is point you in the right direction.

It’s easy to stick with what’s comfortable, authors you already know, series you’ve already started. And again, there’s nothing wrong with that. But every now and then, it’s worth taking a chance on something new.

Because that’s how you find your next favorite book.

Or your next favorite author.

And sometimes, it comes from a title you almost skipped.

Big Names vs New Voices

One thing that stands out about this list is the balance.

You’ve got someone like Rebecca Yarros, who has clearly established herself as a major force in fantasy. Her books dominate conversations, and for good reason, they’re engaging, fast-paced, and easy to get into.

But then you’ve got authors who aren’t as widely known.

And those are the ones that can change your reading habits the most.

Discovering a new author before they blow up or just finding someone whose writing clicks with you, is one of the best parts of being a reader.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been looking for a reason to refresh your reading list, this is it.

These books offer a mix of everything, established series, new beginnings, big names, and hidden gems. Whether you’re in the mood for something fast-paced or something more thought-provoking, there’s at least one title here that should catch your attention.

Now the only question is: where do you start?

Are you sticking with a sure thing like Onyx Storm? Or are you taking a chance on something completely new?

Either way, you really can’t go wrong.

Let me know which of these books you’re planning to read, or which ones you think should’ve made the list.

Happy reading!

Rebecca Yarros is a household name at this point and her Empyrean series is great and worth checking. Onyx Storm is book three in the series and you will end up reading her books in a day or so.

The other sci-fi and fantasy books on the list are new to me and I will be checking them out. Which sci-fi and fantasy books from this list are you most likely to read? Let us know in the comments below!

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