8 Books Like Dune For Your Next Sci-Fi Spiral

There’s something magical about the way diving into a good book can completely sweep you away from reality, right? And here at Dear Media, we’re well aware of how different genres can make you feel totally different things. For example, read books like Gone Girl, and you feel like Nancy Drew. But, read spicy books with a good plot, and you feel… Well, a lot.

But what about the magic of science fiction? It isn’t one of those genres with lighthearted stories and whimsical romances. It sucks you in and makes you question everything. Very few books leave a lasting impression long after you’re done, but Dune? Yeah, that one’s set the standard for science fiction novels across the board.

Why else would it have sold almost 20 MILLION copies? If you devoured this novel and are on the hunt for something similar, we’ve got you covered. We’ve put together a roundup of books like Dune to scratch that spacey and complex sci-fi itch. Ready to let go of reality and dive in?

8 Books Like Dune For Your Next Sci-Fi Spiral

There are a few things about Dune that make it stand out among the sea of sci-fi novels. The extensive world-building, intriguing political drama, deeply complex characters, and unforgettable heroes who rise against all odds–it’s powerful sh*t! 

And while Dune IS a superior read, there are sooo many other books that have that same vibe. But, before we dive into our list, we have to quickly break down what Dune is even about. Whether you’ve read the novel cover-to-cover or you haven’t quite convinced yourself to dive in yet, this refresher will help you understand how the other recs compare.

What Is The Book Dune About?

The year is 10,191, and noble families (Great Houses) rule over different planets across the galaxy under the control of Emperor Shaddam Corrino IV. But each world is entirely different from one another. Some worlds are lush and oceanic, whereas some are harsh and deserted. Despite their differences, they’re each connected by one thing: the need for a valuable resource called “spice.”

“Spice,” also known as “Melange,” is a mind-enhancing, life-extending substance… that also allows you to travel through space (NBD!). The main story follows Paul Atredis, a young heir of a noble family that’s been given control of Arrakis. The twist? Arrakis is the only place where spice exists. But of course, it couldn’t be THAT simple. The whole thing is a political trap, launching Paul on a mission that leads to a journey of survival and power.

It’s not a walk in the park, though. Paul has to survive the desert, connect with the Fremen (the natives in Arrakis), and rise to power to create a huge (yet necessary) galactic shift. Again, NBD! While this all sounds super action-packed and intense, Dune is far more than that.

It’s an exploration of control, religion, culture, and environmentalism. Ultimately, it’s a really good example of how unchecked power can have dangerous consequences. It feels like a slow burn at times, but once you get into it, you won’t be able to stop reading. Now that we’ve given you a refresher, are you ready to find your new favorite Dune-inspired sci-fi novel?

What Books To Read If You Like Dune

Hyperion by Dan Simmons

This novel is about seven pilgrims who are making their way toward the mysterious planet called, you guessed it, Hyperion. While each pilgrim has their reason for traveling to the planet, they share one goal: to get answers from the Shrike and Time Tombs. 

Like Dune, it dives deep into religion, war, and even a little bit of existential dread. You also get to hear from six of the seven characters making the pilgrimage, which honestly adds such a unique layer of depth and complexity that elevates the story entirely.

Hyperion is actually just the first book of four in Dan Simmons’ series. And, while you don’t have to read ALL four, you definitely won’t regret doing so. 

Red Mars by Kim Stanley Robinson

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live on Mars? Like, to just totally start from scratch and build from the ground up? Red Mars, the first book in a trilogy, dives headfirst into this very topic. 

A group of people, also known as “the First Hundred,” travel to Mars to set up the first-ever colony. Though it’s similar to Dune in style, it’s much less philosophical. Actually, Red Mars is often considered “hard sci-fi,” meaning it focuses more on scientific accuracy and real possibility. Sooo if you love Dune but think, “Hm, I want a realistic approach to sci-fi,” then you’ll love this one. 

Foundation by Isaac Asimov

A big reason why people crave more Dune-esc novels is because of that epic “save the world” kind of vibe. So, it only makes sense to include the iconic Foundation by Isaac Asimov! Set in a Galactic Empire that’s ruled for 12,000 years, this story unfolds as it hangs in the balance against a dark age.

That’s until Hari Seldon can see into the future and gain knowledge on how to save humankind. By joining forces with both scientists and scholars, Hari creates what he calls “The Foundation”—a beacon of hope in all that’s to come. It’s as moving as it is thought-provoking; just check it out for yourself.

The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin

Serving as the first book in The Broken Earth trilogy, The Fifth Season is a moving approach to typical sci-fi. Let us set the scene for you: the novel takes place on a planet with one giant supercontinent called “The Stillness.” But, every few centuries, a catastrophic “geological event” occurs, known as the Fifth Season. 

But we’re not talking about harsh winds and heavy rain. No, this event threatens human life as the characters know it. And it’s soooo much deeper than that! Like oppression, survival, the threat of other-worldly transformation—it’s so good. We can’t say anymore without spoiling things—read it yourself!

Children Of Time by Adrian Tchaikovsky

This is for everyone who’s into sci-fi with a drop of evolution and philosophy. So yeah, pretty much in line with Dune. But that isn’t the only thing these two novels share in common. Children of Time explores a world where Earth is dying, and those who remain must find a new home. 

And suddenly, they find one. Except what they thought would be their refuge was actually their worst nightmare. Spiders are now the dominant species (yes, you read that correctly), leaving humans in utter terror and confusion. How do they reconnect? Can they exist in harmony? Guess you gotta read it and find out!

The Space Between Worlds by Micaiah Johnson

Imagine a world where you can travel through the multiverse. Not one where you could go back and tell yourself not to talk to that ex (sorry!), but something way deeper than that. You can only visit multiverses where the old version of you has already died. Trippy, we know. 

The Space Between Worlds follows Cara, a character who has died 372 times. But for some reason, in this story, she survives! She’s got the apartment, the family, the good job, and the occasional flings. But something still just doesn’t seem right. Oh, that’s probably because one of her EIGHT dopplegängers dies, and Cara is thrown right back into chaos. 

We’re big fans of this story. It explores a much more personal take on power, fate, and true identity. Add it to your TBR like… now.

Leviathan Wakes by James S.A. Corey

As the first book in the Expanse series, Leviathan Wakes has a looot of world-building and character development. But it’s somehow still super intriguing and doesn’t give off that “get to the point already” feeling.

Now, here’s the sitch: humanity has taken over the solar system. Like, all of it. Jim Holden stumbles upon a random abandoned ship on the rings of Saturn, and he realizes he has discovered something big. At the same time, Detective Miller is looking for a missing girl among the billions of undiscovered territories in the solar system. And where does his trail lead him? Straight to Holden. 

This novel is told through both POVs with one overall goal: to figure out WTF is going on behind the scenes. Look, it sounds confusing, but it’s soooo good.

A Memory Called Empire by Arkady Martine

Mahit Dzmare arrives at the Teixcalaani Empire, fully ready to take on her newfound role. But as soon as she gets there, she realizes that the last ambassador mysteriously died. The problem? Nobody’s saying a word about it. So, obviously, now Mahit feels like she’s next on the hit list. 

Not only does she now have to rule an empire, but she also has to navigate court politics, hide a deadly secret (won’t spoil it), and solve a murder mystery. This novel is coined as a “space opera,” which honestly just sounds intriguing within itself. Aside from the themes that keep you hooked as soon as the first page, this novel is incredibly well-written. Def a must-read if you’re a Dune fan. 

If you love this kind of energy as much as we do, you have to check out Bone, Marry, Bury. Start with Chapter 1 and enjoy the ride!

How many of these books are you adding to your TBR list?

We love dramas, thrillers, and even listening to the best podcasts about books. But one thing we’ll always have a special interest in is sci-fi. There are sooo many ways it can draw you in, throw you into a totally new universe, and make you question everything. Dune is a hard contestant to beat, but we think that these recs put up a pretty good fight. Wouldn’t you agree?

Not a fan of reading by yourself? Check out The Readheads! It’s a podcast, it’s a book club, it’s where we go when we wanna close our eyes and unwind—they do it all. And of course, check out the Dear Media blog for anything from the latest pop culture updates to essential relationship advice. Also, don’t forget to check out the DM shop for tons of must-have products! Maybe you’d like this “Note to Self” notebook for jotting down all your thoughts on these new books! And, no solid reading sesh is complete without your “In the Clouds” PJ set! Let’s be real, you deserve both.