The year 2018 promises an exciting lineup for science fiction enthusiasts, mirroring the vibrant offerings of 2017. The month of January kicks off with notable releases from established series, including Sharon Lee and Steve Miller’s Liaden Universe and Timothy Zahn’s Cobra series. Below are the highlights of upcoming science fiction titles for January 2018.
1. Neogenesis by Sharon Lee and Steve Miller
The Liaden saga stands out as one of the most enduring series in the science fiction genre, continuing its journey with Neogenesis, the 20th installment. The authors faced initial challenges when their first three books were deemed unprofitable by their publisher, leading to concerns about the series’ continuation.
However, a dedicated fanbase emerged, particularly on Usenet groups during the 1990s, breathing new life into the series. There was a significant gap between the release of Carpe Diem (1989) and Plan B (1999) as the authors only became aware of the trilogy’s popularity when they accessed the Internet.
Neogenesis picks up the story after The Gathering Edge, focusing on the race between humans and AI to obtain a technology that poses a threat to entire universes. In this universe, the creation of AI ships has been outlawed since a devastating war, yet many such ships remain hidden, setting the stage for impending revelations.
Expected release date: January 2
Buy: Neogenesis
2. Cobra Traitor by Timothy Zahn
Timothy Zahn’s Cobra series, now boasting nine installments including the latest, Cobra Traitor, is a staple of military science fiction. As the concluding volume of the Cobra Rebellion trilogy, this installment continues to showcase Zahn’s skill, particularly known for his contributions to the Star Wars universe, including the renowned Thrawn series.
The Cobras, a genetically enhanced warrior race designed to combat aliens, find themselves under the oppressive thumb of the Dominion of Man, which has enslaved them. Amidst efforts from various Cobra clans to resist this tyranny, an old alien adversary returns, forcing the Cobras to confront an unexpected alliance with a regime they despise.
Expected release date: January 2
Buy: Cobra Traitor
3. Dark State by Charles Stross
Renowned for his works in cyberpunk, Charles Stross brings us Dark State, the second entry in the Empire Games trilogy, set in the same universe as his popular Merchant Princes series. Stross is celebrated for his intricate narratives, particularly in the realm of technological speculation.
In Dark State, readers will navigate two parallel timelines with superpowers on the brink of conflict. One timeline depicts a hyper-police state, while the other experiences a technological revolution. Commissioner Miriam Burgeson and her elite agents undertake a critical mission to extract a significant political figure, all while being sabotaged by a sleeper cell linked to her adopted daughter’s timeline.
Expected release date: January 11
Buy: Dark State
4. Binti: The Night Masquerade by Nnedi Okorafor
The conclusion of the Binti trilogy arrives with Binti: The Night Masquerade, a highly anticipated release in January 2018. This series of novellas has garnered attention for its unique characters and engaging science fiction themes. Binti: Home, the second installment, was also celebrated as one of the best science fiction works of 2017.
This final chapter finds Binti in a race against time to avert escalating conflict between the Meduse and the Khoush, a situation exacerbated by the latter’s aggressive tactics. Binti is determined to prevent a war that could threaten the existence of her people, the Meduse. As a novella, this story is concise, making it accessible for newcomers to the genre.
Expected release date: January 16
Buy: Binti: The Night Masquerade
Which science fiction publication are you most excited to delve into this January 2018? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.
