There are many reasons why space opera is a popular subgenre of science fiction. These books transport readers to unimaginable places throughout the universe, offering a sense of wonder and adventure. Space opera plots present complex and intriguing scenarios, mysteries, and conflicts. Perhaps the most compelling reason of all is the diverse cast of characters. Regardless of what part of the universe they inhabit, people are people and humans do what humans do; greedily take and generously give, initiate war and display compassion, support higher powers and fight for independence. Whether it’s the heroes, the villains, or anyone in between, through their triumphs and tragedies, readers can relate to the unique personalities and relationships that are developed in space operas. The staff and editorial reviewers at Indies Today have offered their picks for the top space opera novels written by amazing indie authors, and here are the results.
Our Recommendations: Space Opera Books
Archer 887 by Anna Schroeder
Why we love it:
Epic space battles, deceptive political intrigues, and futuristic technologies that challenge the laws of time and space adorn the pages of Archer 887. Although the action is gritty and graphic, the wordsmanship is crafty and clever. Intelligently written and thoughtfully conceived, this book explores the limits of bravery and humanity in the framework of a brilliant, nebular blockbuster.
The Albatross: Contact by Connor Mackay
Why we love it:
Albatross is an ultra-high-tech spacecraft that brings Arthur, a leader of the Lumenarians, to the Earth to ask for help. A brutal and persistent war has been taking place among several alien races and Arthur hopes humans can help turn the tide. In return, they bestow technological advances upon humankind. Albatross: Contact is a high-stakes adventure, filled with all the expected alien trappings and intense battle scenes.
Solar Warden by Peter Fuller
Why we love it:
Military fiction meets sci-fi in the exciting, futuristic novel, Solar Warden. The research is spot-on, segueing flawlessly into the believable space-force aspects. And the characters, including an optimistic and ambitious CO and a soft-hearted captain, are well-defined, enhancing the compelling plot and the abundant and richly described action scenes.
Those Left Behind by N. C. Scrimgeour
Why we love it:
A dynamic space opera with echoes of some very human, very Earthly problems, this novel offers an undeniably appealing story that will wholly transport readers. Complete with power struggles, psychotic family drama, ethical dilemmas, and vivid imagery, Those Left Behind pairs fantasy and science fiction in an elegantly choreographed intergalactic ballet.
17 Planets – The Captain by A. R. Alexander
Why we love it:
In a divided system composed of four conflicting political factions, a naive yet powerful general in the Alliance learns the hard way that the best of intentions can result in the worst of consequences. A high-action intergalactic adventure, 17 Planets – The Captain features a universe where people have successfully adapted to life on forbidding new planets, but in the process have forgotten what it is that unites us as humans.
Thanks for checking out our list of the top space opera books, and thanks for supporting indie authors!
