books fantasy or science fiction

One of the books could be 'The Fifth Season' by N.K. Jemisin. It has a unique world - building with a post - apocalyptic setting and elements of magic and geology combined in an interesting way.

I think 'The Grace of Kings' by Ken Liu was also quite popular. It has a great blend of Asian - inspired mythology and science fiction elements. It's about kingdoms and power struggles in a world that has some advanced technological aspects.

One great science fiction fantasy book is 'The Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkien. It has a richly detailed world, with elves, dwarves, hobbits and more. The story of the Fellowship's journey to destroy the One Ring is full of adventure and magic. Another is 'Dune' by Frank Herbert. Set in a far - future universe, it has complex political intrigue, unique cultures, and a hero's journey. 'A Song of Ice and Fire' by George R.R. Martin also fits the bill. It has a large - scale world filled with different kingdoms, magic, and a complex web of characters and their motives.

Well, 'Ancillary Mercy' by Ann Leckie is also a notable one. It's part of a great series. The story is complex, involving interesting characters and a far - reaching space - based civilization. It has elements of artificial intelligence and political intrigue.

One well - known book could be 'Dune' by Frank Herbert. It's a classic in the genre, with a richly imagined desert planet, complex political intrigue, and a hero's journey.

Another one could be 'Ancillary Justice' by Ann Leckie. It's set in a far - flung future with a complex universe and interesting characters. The unique narrative style and exploration of themes like identity and power within the science - fiction framework are what make it stand out.

One of the top science fiction and fantasy books is '1984' by George Orwell. Although often considered more of a dystopian science fiction, it has elements of both. It warns about totalitarian governments and the loss of individual freedoms. Also, 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy' by Douglas Adams is a very fun and imaginative science - fiction work, full of strange aliens and absurd situations.

I think 'Ender's Game' by Orson Scott Card is among the best. It tells the story of a young boy, Ender, trained to fight in a future interstellar war. It's a great exploration of leadership, morality, and the cost of war. 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy' by Douglas Adams is really funny and imaginative. It follows the misadventures of Arthur Dent as he travels through the galaxy. And 'A Song of Ice and Fire' by George R.R. Martin has a huge and complex world, full of political intrigue, magic, and diverse characters.

Some of the best new fantasy science fiction books include 'Project Hail Mary' by Andy Weir. It combines scientific concepts with a thrilling adventure in space. Another great one is 'The City We Became' by N.K. Jemisin which has a unique take on urban fantasy, exploring the idea of a city coming to life. And 'Dune' by Frank Herbert, although not a new release in the strictest sense, has new editions and is a classic that still feels fresh and innovative in the genre.

For beginners, 'The Hunger Games' by Suzanne Collins is a great start. It has a simple yet engaging premise of a post - apocalyptic world where children are forced to fight in a deadly arena. It's easy to follow and has a strong female lead. Another option is 'The Giver' by Lois Lowry. It's set in a seemingly utopian but actually dystopian society, and it makes you think about freedom and choice. 'City of Ember' by Jeanne DuPrau is also good. It has a mystery - filled plot about an underground city and the search for a way out.