In January 2024, the science fiction genre offers diverse books to start the new year. From substantial sequels to captivating standalone, renowned authors and emerging talents contribute to the literary landscape. The month boasts mythological retellings, space adventures, hard science fiction, cyberpunk ghost stories, and more, catering to readers of all ages.

As the holiday fervor subsides, these new releases present an exciting opportunity for readers to embark on fresh literary journeys and fulfill their reading goals for the year. 

The Tusks of Extinction by Ray Nayler

In the quest to resurrect the mammoth, success extends beyond DNA. Moscow revives the species but lacks the knowledge to ensure their survival. Dr. Damira Khismatullina, an elephant behavior expert who was murdered defending elephants, has her consciousness downloaded into a mammoth. As the herd's matriarch, she battles poachers and confronts Moscow's hidden agenda. It is a gripping science fiction thriller by a rising genre master. 

To Challenge Heaven by David Weber & Chris Kennedy

In a universe filled with threats, humanity, seeking allies, builds itself into a starfaring civilization after the Shongairi had attacked Earth. Uncovering that the Shongairi may unwittingly serve evil aliens, the Founders, there's a chance to turn them against the Hegemony. However, breaking the Shongairi honor code requires a colossal battle against their planetary defenses for the possibility of friendship.

The Sanctuary by Andrew Hunter Murray

In a near-future world, Ben, a painter, travels to Sanctuary Rock, a mysterious island owned by wealthy philanthropist Sir John Pemberley, to win back his ex-fiancée, Cara. However, as Ben explores the island, he discovers the unsettling reality behind Sir John's seemingly perfect society.

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A Quantum Love Story By Mike Chen

Grieving neuroscientist Mariana Pineda is pulled into a time loop after consulting at a particle accelerator. Carter Cho claims they have met before and guides her through a repeating four-day life. As they find happiness, Carter's memories start fading, threatening their chance at a permanent escape from the loop.

Down These Mean Streets by Larry Correia & Kacey Ezell

This book explores humanity's enduring fascination with the darkness of cities at night. The vivid imagery of black skies, pools of streetlight, distant streetcar sounds, and the contrast of wealth and poverty in shadowed alleyways captivates our senses. The city, whether infused with dark magic in an alternate past or portrayed on futuristic space stations, remains a compelling, living entity. The upcoming anthology promises new science fiction and fantasy stories with a hardboiled noir edge, recognizing that the city, with its enigmatic streets, is not always benevolent. 

Thirteen Ways to Kill Lulabelle Rock by Maud Woolf

Former film star Lulabelle Rock's 12 clones manage her celebrity duties in the bustling Bubble City. However, times change, and a 13th clone, an assassin, is created to eliminate her predecessors. The task seems straightforward, but complications arise when love enters the equation, challenging the notion that killing clones is not murder. 

Machine Vendetta by Alastair Reynolds

In a city-state orbiting the planet Yellowstone, Panoply is a dedicated police force upholding democracy among diverse city-states. Ingvar Tench, a seasoned operative, inexplicably walks alone into a habitat harboring animosity toward Panoply. After her death, guilt-stricken Prefect Tom Dreyfus questions his involvement in a past investigation that indirectly led to Tench's demise. As Dreyfus contemplates the consequences and uncovers hidden adversaries, he must confront the morality of his choices and grapple with the awakening of a dormant enemy. 

Exordia by Seth Dickinson

Anna Sinjari, a refugee and disaffected office worker, encounters Ssrin, a many-headed serpent alien fleeing her past. Drawn together, they face universe-threatening stakes. As humanity grapples with disaster, Anna, Ssrin, and a diverse team must confront their own demons to investigate a mysterious broadcast and avert unknowable horror, potentially saving the world.

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