Best Speculative Fiction Books December 2024

The Host

Melanie Stryder refuses to fade away. Earth has been invaded by a species that takes over the minds of human hosts while leaving their bodies intact, and most of humanity has succumbed. Wanderer, the invading “soul” who has been given Melanie’s body, knew about the challenges of living inside a human: the overwhelming emotions, the too-vivid memories. But Wanderer didn’t expect the former tenant of her body refusing to relinquish possession of her mind. Melanie fills Wanderer’s thoughts with visions of the man she loves – Jared, a human who still lives in hiding. Unable to separate herself from her body’s desires, Wanderer yearns for a man she’s never met. As outside forces make Wanderer and Melanie unwilling allies, they set off to search for the man they both love.

This Savage Song

In a city torn apart by violence, two unlikely allies must confront the darkness within themselves. Kate Harker, daughter of a ruthless crime lord, yearns to prove her worth. August Flynn, a monster who can steal souls with music, longs to be human. As chaos engulfs their world, they form an uneasy alliance, navigating treacherous streets and their own conflicting desires. Schwab’s haunting prose weaves a tale of monsters and humanity, blurring the lines between good and evil. A gripping urban fantasy that will leave you questioning what it truly means to be human.

Origin

In “Origin,” Dan Brown weaves a thrilling tapestry of science and religion, challenging our very understanding of existence. As symbologist Robert Langdon races through Spain, he uncovers a groundbreaking discovery that could reshape humanity’s future. Brown’s signature blend of art, history, and cutting-edge technology creates a pulse-pounding adventure that kept me up all night. I found myself questioning everything I thought I knew about our origins and purpose. A mind-bending journey that’ll leave you breathless.

Our Missing Hearts

Twelve-year-old Bird Gardner lives in a world where dissent is silenced and books are banned. His mother, a Chinese American poet, left years ago, her whereabouts unknown. Bird clings to fragmented memories of her, searching for clues in the pages she once read to him. When a mysterious letter arrives, Bird embarks on a quest to find her, uncovering a network of librarians working to preserve outlawed art and literature. Ng’s haunting tale explores the power of stories and the unbreakable bonds of family, reminding us that hope can flourish even in the darkest times.

Fool’s Fate

Diving back into the world of FitzChivalry Farseer, Robin Hobb’s “Fool’s Fate” is a masterful conclusion to the Tawny Man trilogy. Hobb’s rich prose and intricate character development shine as Fitz faces his most daunting challenge yet. I found myself completely absorbed, staying up far too late just to read one more chapter. The complex relationships and political intrigue kept me guessing until the very end. A bittersweet, satisfying finale that left me both elated and emotionally drained.

Fool’s Errand

Fifteen years have passed since Fitz, the royal assassin, vanished from court. Living quietly as a farmer, he’s haunted by memories of his past and the wolf-bond he once shared. But when his old mentor Chade unexpectedly appears, Fitz is thrust back into a world of intrigue and danger. The kingdom faces a new threat, and only Fitz’s unique skills can save it. As he grapples with his reluctance to return, Fitz must confront his own demons and the price of loyalty. Hobb’s masterful storytelling weaves a tale of sacrifice, duty, and the enduring power of friendship.

The Minders

In a world where secrets are currency, five ordinary people are chosen for an extraordinary task. They’re “minders,” human vaults entrusted with the nation’s most classified information. But as they navigate their new roles, they discover the weight of knowledge can be crushing. Marrs weaves a taut thriller that explores the boundaries of trust, the price of security, and the human cost of protecting secrets. With each page, you’ll find yourself questioning who to believe and what’s truly at stake in this gripping tale of power, paranoia, and the perils of knowing too much.

The Passengers

In a near-future London, eight strangers find themselves trapped in self-driving cars, their fates controlled by a mysterious hacker. As their vehicles speed towards an unknown destination, a jury of public viewers must decide who lives and who dies. With each passenger’s secrets unraveling and time running out, the story becomes a gripping exploration of morality, technology, and human nature. Marrs masterfully weaves tension and ethical dilemmas, leaving readers breathless until the very last page.

The One

In a world where DNA testing promises to find your perfect match, five people embark on a journey to meet their soulmates. As they navigate the complexities of love and fate, dark secrets emerge, challenging everything they thought they knew. Marrs weaves a gripping tale of desire, deception, and the human heart’s unpredictable nature. With each twist, readers are left questioning the true meaning of destiny and the price of finding “the one.”

The 5th Wave

Cassie Sullivan’s world shatters when the Others arrive. Waves of destruction decimate humanity, leaving her alone and desperate to find her little brother. Trust becomes a luxury she can’t afford. As she navigates a treacherous landscape, Cassie clings to a promise made to Sammy. Along the way, she encounters Evan Walker, mysterious and alluring. Is he friend or foe? In a world where nothing is as it seems, Cassie must unravel the truth to survive. Yancey’s gripping tale of alien invasion will keep you on edge, questioning everything you thought you knew about humanity and survival.