Science fiction, like every genre, has its big players and familiar names. As a reader, however, I’ve increasingly found that indie authors are the future of science fiction… it’s kind of funny, really, given that so many sci-fi books dig into worlds set in the near or far future, and that era is sitting in the hands of someone you might walk past on the street without even realizing it. Under the pens of independent authors around the globe, the world of science fiction is evolving rapidly with new and innovative ideas emerging every day. Some of the most exciting dystopian and indie sci-fi books of 2024 are poised to take us readers to new places, and these five books are ones you’ll want to keep on your radar.
1. The continuation of the City of Kaus series
Author Dani Hoots has a long list of science fiction and fantasy books that are worth checking out. Hoots is an interesting figure in and of herself — she has a B.S. in Anthropology, a Masters of Urban and Environmental Planning, a Certificate in Novel Writing from Arizona State University — so it’s no wonder she creates fantastically rich and believable worlds. From fantasy to romance, she’s no stranger to storytelling.
The City of Kaus series begins with Revenge, which follows Elvira “Ellie” Ryder as she takes on an assassination job in an attempt to find an exact revenge on her ex-boyfriend Cor. Ellie’s world is one marred by misfortune, as Cor’s antics previously led to the destruction of her people. Of course, nothing in the world of science fiction is ever what it seems at first glance.
The series is a fantastic LGBTQ+ Sci-fi Western saga that continues in Retribution, Rescue, and Reunion, the 2024 edition to this incredible story. Connect with Dani Hoots on Instagram for information on where you can purchase the latest edition of this epic tale.
2. The Scent of Memory, a Teller Mas Novella in the Dark Universe
Author Paul L. Arvidson, originally from Liverpool, UK, crafts wonderful science fiction fantasy realms that will take you a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of life here on Earth. Ironically, Paul enjoyed a previous life as a lighting designer for theaters, but he’s expertly crafted a world centered around darkness.
Dark is the first book of the Dark Series, and it kicks off with an unexpected hero following his father’s half-finished map on a quest for truth. What’s so fascinating about this series is that it toys with the essence of sense, challenging the reader to immerse themself in a world that’s rather different from our own.
Teller Mas is one of many fascinating characters in this world, and he’s a scent detective with a problem: every person he gets close to winds up dead. In The Scent of Memory: A Teller Mas Novella in the Dark Universe, we readers follow Teller as he tries to crack the case while time is a-tickin’.
3. The Burdens
I love connecting with new authors, as their minds often harbor stories that are uniquely poised to shake our world to the core. Tayler Ann is one such author, and she’s working toward launching her debut dystopian novel, The Burdens.
In this world, forgotten, unwanted, and orphaned children are labeled “burdens,” and they’re placed in an underground world alongside seasoned criminals. In the Burden City, as main character Faith calls it, prisoners are forced to perform tasks at the risk of punishment. But an especially dark punishment is threatening Faith… after losing her parents and dealing with a dark depression, she comes to realize that the Burden Keepers want to kill her. She just can’t win.
Of course, Faith just might win. As the truth of her parents’ identities slowly surfaces, Faith realizes she might just have what it takes to disassemble this horrific society… if she can survive it.
Connect with Tayler Ann on Instagram to stay tuned on when and where you can buy this new novel.
4. Children of the Fall
H.S. Down, author of The Shareholders, shook the world with visions of a not-too-far-off Earth that’s ravaged by climate change. In this world, the billionaires have bioengineered immortality and fled to Mars, leaving those on Earth to face the implications of a crumbling world and withering humanity.
That same energy continues in Children of the Fall, where AI, machines, and a global metal shortage come out to play in a unique way.
4. If you are interested in:
— H.S. Down (@TheShareholder1) February 15, 2024
Social backlashes against technology,
The rise of 'manosphere' into IRL social movements,
AI guardianship and friendship,
Machines and the hidden theft of labour and life
Resource shortages
This is a book for you.
Children of the Fall just came out, and it’s one you’ll want on your bookshelf! Follow H.S. Down on X to keep this story on your radar.
5. Industrialized, Part One: Experiment
My debut full-length novel, Industrialized, Part One: Experiment is coming in April of 2024. After 17 years working as a reporter, magazine editor, ghost writer, and copywriter, I’ve finally decided to expand my professional presence in the writing world by unleashing my creative works.
The story follows Kristina Simmons, a promising young engineer, as she realizes far too late that her employer is prioritizing profit over people. She sets out to stop Tarm Industries’ plan to spark a civil war, believing herself to be smart enough to sidestep their vision. Unfortunately for Kristina, her intellect is the very thing they need to execute their plan.
Get a sneak preview of the story in Industrialized, Poor Vinnie’s Valor, and check out my video promo to hear a piece of the audiobook:
Honorable Mentions
There are so many incredible books coming out in 2024 that I have to call some out… even though they’re not science fiction, these goodies are worth adding to your TBR pile.
I recently picked up Do You Think I Cried Too Long? by Elaine Kelliher, and though I’m just barely past the Prologue in Chapter One, it’s already a beautiful and intriguing read. While it’s a memoir, it’s told like a period piece set in the 1950s. The book explores hard-hitting topics and deeply emotional experiences, and I can’t wait to keep tearing through it.
Marie Lestrange is known as an author of horror fiction, and she has an energy and a storytelling style like no other. Crimson Cobblestones is coming out in summer of 2024, and it’s a tale I’m eagerly anticipating.
Debbie Russell is a lawyer turned author, and her Crossing Fifty-One: Not Quite a Memoir came out a few months ago. It’s a relatable read on a dysfunctional family, and it’s worth keeping on your radar for 2024.
From the most exciting indie sci-fi books of 2024 to these genre-defying reads, there’s so much to look forward to as a reader this year. What are you most excited to read? Share your thoughts in the comments, and don’t hesitate to connect with these awesome authors on their social media channels!