Top 11 Military Science Fiction Books for Beginners
Book RaiderAlright, folks. Let's talk about the world of lasers, spaceships, and super-galactic conflict. Oh yes, I’m pointing at you, Military Science Fiction. A paradoxical cocktail of advanced technology and good ol' fashioned storytelling where the hero usually has a Ph.D. in kicking alien backside. Where else can you get a dose of quantum physics and a rapid-fire machine gun sequence in the same chapter?
Before you say "Hold up, isn't military sci-fi just Star Wars with a sprinkle of jargon?", let me tell you - there's a universe of complexity waiting right around the corner. Now, we're going to assume you don't have a PhD in wormhole theory Nor do you necessarily want one. So, we’ve pulled together the top military science fiction books perfect for beginners. Easy on the jargon, heavy on the action and just a touch of that cosmic enigma to get you hooked. So buckle up, and prepare for liftoff.
Terms of Enlistment (Frontlines, #1)
by Marko Kloos
Why Terms of Enlistment (Frontlines, #1) is on this list: This book is the first in a series, so it's perfect for beginners who to slowly dip their toes into military science fiction. Plus, Kloos is known for creating relatable characters and engaging battle scenes, so it won't feel too heavy or overwhelming.
Terms of Enlistment is a story set in a bleak future, where young Andrew Grayson joins the military to escape the slums. It turns out there's a lot more to the military than just getting three meals a day, a clean bed to sleep on, and off from the Earth's decaying urban areas... He gets thrown into a war with other interstellar territories that'll give you all the combat thrills you've signed up for. Plus, there's the twist of an unexpected alien enemy that adds a dash of extra spice.
What readers like: Readers love the fact Kloos has created a page-turning military adventure without becoming too technical - so you won't feel like you've accidentally enrolled in a Military Tactics 101 class! The realistic characters, engaging narrative, and the 'what-on-earth-is-coming-next' twists and turns keep them glued to the pages till the very end.
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Columbus Day (Expeditionary Force, #1)
by Craig Alanson
Why Columbus Day (Expeditionary Force, #1) is on this list: Much like a military recruit, as a beginner you need a soft yet thrilling entry into the world of military science fiction. And trust me, 'Columbus Day' is just that ticket. It's uncomplicated, straightforward, with easy-to-understand language and military protocols. Plus, the mix of humor and action ensures you won't be scared off in the first round.
In 'Columbus Day', Army grunt Joe Bishop is enjoying his well-deserved shore leave when aliens decide to invade Earth on Columbus Day. Ironically, they are soon booted out by another alien specie. The second crew of extraterrestrials seems friendly, albeit with a teensy request - help them fight off their unfriendly brothers stuck in another part of the galaxy. Now, Joe must navigate through an alien war, while figuring out who's really friend and who's foe. It's a wild ride of survival, tactics, and lot of space aliens.
What readers like: Lovers of this book really enjoy Alanson's perfect blend of humour and action, and Joe's relatable everyman persona. They also appreciate the highly detailed military strategies, the sharp dialogues and the unique spin on the classic alien invasion trope. Oh, and let's not forget about 'Skippy', an omnipotent alien AI with a knack for sarcasm, who quickly becomes the favourite character of most readers.
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Shards of Honor
by Lois McMaster Bujold
Why Shards of Honor is on this list: Rookie to the military science fiction genre? No problemo! Shards of Honor by Lois McMaster Bujold, is a tour-de-force introduction. It mixes science fiction and military jargon perfectly in a way that won't put non-experts to sleep.
Shards of Honor is the kick-off to Bujold's Vorkosigan Series. Think Romeo and Juliet on steroids, but in space. The story follows Cordelia Naismith, an intelligent and courageous captain who, after a disastrous clash, ends up stranded with a man who is supposedly her enemy. Spoiler Alert: they soon find out they’re more than just friends. Plus, some epic space battles do ensue, so if you're here for the military side of things, you won’t be disappointed.
What readers like: People seem to really dig the vulnerability of the characters in a tough-guy (or gal) setting. The nuanced interactions, the rich environments described, and let's not forget, the thrill of some good old space fights, have caught readers' fancy. Plus, Cordelia Naismith is such a powerful lead female character, she had fans before it was even a thing.
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The Forever War (The Forever War, #1)
by Joe Haldeman
Why The Forever War (The Forever War, #1) is on this list: The Forever War by Joe Haldeman is one of those military science fiction books that have the balance just right. It's perfect for beginners who like their adventures to be a mix of interstellar battles and deep-thought warp speed journeys into the human condition.
Welcome to the future, where interstellar wars last for millennia and soldiers age slower the faster they travel. The story follows a reluctant hero, William Mandella, who is drafted into the elite military. The catch? A single tour of duty lasts centuries. While Mandella ages mere months, the Earth he comes back to is centuries older, morphing into something eerily unfamiliar.
What readers like: Readers have given a standing ovation to this book for its clever mix of hard-core physics, mind-bending time-riddles and profound social commentary. They appreciate the smart but accessible writing style and the strangely intimate relationship they form with the protagonist, who's as puzzled as them about this 'forever' thing.
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On Basilisk Station (Honor Harrington, #1)
by David Weber
Why On Basilisk Station (Honor Harrington, #1) is on this list: If you're a military science fiction rookie, then this book is perfect for you. It's the first in a series, which means you can get yourself a big old dose of Weber's universe without feeling like you've missed five seasons of a hit TV show. Plus, it's got a nice mix of hardcore military tactics and far-out sci-fi concepts, dishing up a perfect intro to the genre.
Meet Honor Harrington, she's smart, strong and isn't about to let anybody mess with her spaceship. The book delights with deep space battles, political maneuvers, and our feisty female protagonist who's slamming the glass ceiling of interstellar warfare. Weber manages to blend naval history, futuristic tech and character-focused storytelling to craft an epic space saga.
What readers like: Readers are big fans of the book's detailed world-building, its tough-as-nails heroine, Honor Harrington, and the exciting military space-combat. It's often praised for its balance between the technical details of space warfare and the human element, making it relatable for us earthbound folk. And let's not forget the spaceship cat. Yep, you read that right, a space cat. Who wouldn't want to read about a cat in space?!
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A Hymn Before Battle
by John Ringo
Why A Hymn Before Battle is on this list: Well, A Hymn Before Battle is an ideal starting point for anyone new to military science fiction. You see, it perfectly blends believability within the realm of the military and the realm of sci-fi, making it less daunting for newcomers. Its military tactics are not overly complicated, and the science fiction elements are easily digestible.
Contrary to the serious title, A Hymn Before Battle is not a dreary theological hymnal. It's a bold dance into the world of military science fiction with a melody that resonates with alien invasion, terrestrial conflict, and, of course, artillery. It follows Everyman Mike O'Neal, recruited by an alien force to save humanity from another set of not-so-friendly extraterrestrials. It's a bit like if Doctor Who dialed down on the timey-wimey stuff and cranked up the military jargon.
What readers like: Readers, especially those new to the genre, often enjoy the crisp writing and Ringo's apparent knack for making complex military and scientific concepts understandable without feeling like a lecture. The characters, particularly our pal Mike, are pretty relatable and the story is gripping without being a head-scratcher. Plus, who doesn't enjoy a good alien showdown?
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Starship Troopers
by Robert Heinlein
Why Starship Troopers is on this list: If you're dipping your toes into the world of military science fiction and need a place to start, look no further than Starship Troopers. It's considered as one of the cornerstones of this genre, both accessible to beginners and rewardingly complex for seasoned readers.
Starship Troopers is set in a future where mankind has taken to the stars and is locked in conflict with a bug-like alien species. It follows the journey of protagonist Johnny Rico from infantry recruit to seasoned soldier, with plenty of space battles, alien combat and military camaraderie along the way. And although the high-tech powered armor is definitely cool, it's Heinlein's take on civic duty, war, and democracy that set this book apart.
What readers like: Readers love the frame of an epic space opera intertwined with the raw feel of a gritty war novel, all punctuated by Robert Heinlein's distinctive writing style. His depictions of military life is as action-packed as it is introspective, making for a book that's both entertaining and thought-provoking. Plus, who doesn't like some old-fashioned bug squashing in space?
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Ender's Game (Ender's Saga, #1)
by Orson Scott Card
Why Ender's Game (Ender's Saga, #1) is on this list: Ender's Game is one of the can't-miss entries in the field of military science fiction. It's well-known for its accessible storytelling style, and you don't need to be a military or science fiction expert to enjoy it.
Ender's Game is a deliciously complex mixture of intricate strategies, brotherly rivalry, and alien invasions. In this story, the governments of the world have started training kids to fight in wars, because apparently adults weren't cutting it. Our hero, Ender, is one such kiddo who ends up being the chosen one to save humanity. No pressure, Ender.
What readers like: Readers love Ender's relatable character and his struggles with fitting in, standing up to bullies, and saving the human race from alien dominion. Also, the twist ending is a super spicy meatball that keeps fans coming back for more. Oh, and did we mention all the cool space battles?
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Leviathan Wakes (The Expanse, #1)
by James S.A. Corey
Why Leviathan Wakes (The Expanse, #1) is on this list: Leviathan Wakes combines military and political conflict with an alluring blend of hard SF and space opera that beginners in military science fiction can understand and enjoy. Plus, who said newbies can’t jump right into the good stuff?
This epic saga embarks on a future where Mars and Earth are colonial powers throwing their weight around the universe. Starship captain Jim Holden stumbles upon an abandoned ship which pulls his vessel into a solar system-wide conspiracy. Meanwhile, Detective Miller is on a journey to find a missing girl from a rich family and their paths cross in unexpected ways. The book explores the strengths and frailties of humanity in a universe where actions have wide-ranging consequences.
What readers like: Readers appreciate 'Leviathan Wakes' for its realistic depiction of life in space, unforgettable characters, and interstellar political intrigue. They love the visceral combat scenes and the detailed, fully realized universe that Corey builds. There's humor, there's heartbreak and there are spaceship chases - what's not to like? Plus, if you get hooked, good news – this is just the beginning of a series!
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Blindsight (Firefall, #1)
by Peter Watts
Why Blindsight (Firefall, #1) is on this list: Blindsight perfectly fits into our list of beginner-friendly Military Science Fiction books because it effortlessly weaves complex concepts into a riveting storytelling experience. It's just the right type of book to get your feet wet in this genre.
In this first installment of the Firefall series, Peter Watts takes us on a journey of first contact, but not in the way you'd expect. We're not meeting friendly ETs here, but strange, powerful entities that challenge our understanding of consciousness. Our protagonist, Siri Keeton, is sent as part of a team to investigate these entities against the backdrop of mind-bending adventures across space.
What readers like: Readers who got lost in the pages of Blindsight loved its driving, suspenseful plot, its unique take on alien intelligence, and the intriguing character of Siri Keeton, who struggles with his perceived lack of humanity. The novel's deep exploration of hard science garners high praise too, but never gets in the way of a good story. You're in for a treat if you appreciate thought-provoking narratives.
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The Last Good Man
by Linda Nagata
Why The Last Good Man is on this list: Ideal for beginners with a fresh spin on military science fiction, The Last Good Man eases you into an engaging and easily digestible story. You won't be surprised to see drones and bots, but you'll be amazed how well they mesh with the human characters.
Set in a not-so-distant future where war is a spectator sport, The Last Good Man follows Clare, a seasoned soldier turned private contractor, on a mission uncovering deeply buried secrets. The journey is gritty, the characters are soaked in reality and the tech is fascinating, but not overtly complex.
What readers like: Readers love the strong female protagonist Clare. It's not every day you find a middle-aged, kickass lady at the helm of a futuristic warfare novel. Alongside that, they appreciate the grounded technology in the book; relatable yet advanced. Last but not least, fans applaud Nagata for her seamless story-telling, which doesn't get bogged down by the tech-talk that sometimes plague the genre.
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