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In the ever-expanding universe of literature, it’s a common struggle for avid readers to keep pace with the multitude of captivating books available. Each reader has an ever-growing list of titles they wish to explore, making it nearly impossible to read everything. The joy of a continuous TBR (to-be-read) list can be exhilarating, yet the desire to revisit beloved classics is equally compelling. Recently, I picked up The Library at Mount Char by Scott Hawkins again—a choice that never fails to stimulate my imagination. While engaged in this thrilling narrative, my other unread volumes seemed to protest, wondering when it would be their turn. The truth is, I want to delve into every book available, while also cherishing those that have previously captivated me. It’s a delightful dilemma to navigate.
In my earlier reading days, I’d resolutely stick to one book at a time and never revisit a title once it was completed. However, my current reading habits have evolved; it’s not uncommon for me to juggle multiple books at once and reread several titles each month. Surprisingly, as my schedule has grown busier, I’ve found more value in revisiting books. This nostalgic return allows me to reconnect with the feelings I had during my initial reading and to discover new insights that I might have missed before. For example, I revisit The Secret History by Donna Tartt annually, and my perspective has considerably shifted since my twenties.
In the spirit of revisiting great reads, here are five exceptional science fiction and fantasy (SFF) books that I plan to explore next. Whether you’re looking to dive back into these tales or discover them for the first time, I hope this list inspires you.
The Haunting of Tram Car 015 by P. Djèlà Clark
Set in Cairo during 1912, this novella follows two agents from the Ministry of Alchemy, Enchantments, and Supernatural Entities as they investigate a haunted tram car. They soon discover that the supernatural disturbances may foreshadow larger issues to come. This story is part of Clark’s Dead Djinn series, which includes a preceding short story and the novel A Master of Djinn.
The Devourers by Indra Das
This dark fantasy novel unravels the story of a college professor in India who encounters a mysterious stranger sharing a haunting legend. This chance meeting inspires the professor to delve into ancient texts about an extinct species of beast-humans, ultimately leading him to obsessive revelations.
Escape from Baghdad! by Saad Z. Hossain
This tale features two black marketeers in Baghdad who inadvertently acquire a notorious torturer once associated with Saddam Hussein. To secure their freedom, they agree to help him find treasure, leading them on a wildly unpredictable adventure that highlights the complexities of their reality.
The Employees by Olga Ravn, translated by Martin Aitken
This intriguing narrative, an assortment of reports and memos regarding the crew aboard a spaceship, involves the unforeseen consequences of anomalous objects brought on board from an alien world. There’s a unique blend of humor and peculiarity that makes this book engaging, even if its premise remains somewhat elusive.
Hench by Natalie Zina Walschots
This delightful novel presents the story of Anna, who finds herself caught in an absurd superhero narrative after an injury during a battle. Left with substantial medical bills and facing unemployment, Anna’s journey transforms her as she starts working for a supervillain and discovers she can reshape narratives of power, challenging societal norms.
As you embark on your reading adventures, remember to embrace the joy of exploring both new and familiar books. For further insights into literature, I enthusiastically share my thoughts on various titles and genres on the Book Riot podcast All the Books! as well as on social media platforms such as Bluesky and Instagram.
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bookriot.com