Planetary romance is a subgenre of science fiction that transports readers to captivating worlds beyond our own. Filled with grand adventures, epic landscapes, and exotic cultures, these stories take readers on thrilling journeys across alien planets. In this article, we will unveil the ten best otherworldly romance books that will ignite your imagination and transport you to worlds beyond your wildest dreams.
A Princess of Mars by Edgar Rice Burroughs
A Princess of Mars by Edgar Rice Burroughs is a timeless classic in the planetary romance genre. In this captivating novel, John Carter, a brave American Civil War veteran, is transported to the mysterious world of Barsoom (Mars). Amidst alien landscapes and exotic cultures, Carter embarks on a thrilling adventure, battling ferocious creatures and falling in love with the beautiful Dejah Thoris, a princess in need of rescue. Filled with high-stakes action, imaginative world-building, and a dash of romance, Burroughs’ novel immerses readers in an exhilarating tale of heroism, honour, and love against the backdrop of an alien planet teeming with wonder and danger.
Dragonflight by Anne McCaffrey
Dragonflight by Anne McCaffrey is a captivating otherworldly romance book that explores the world of Pern, a planet inhabited by humans and telepathic dragons. The story follows Lessa, a young woman who has been living in hiding as she plots revenge against the deadly Thread, a dangerous spore that threatens the planet. Together with a group of dragon riders, Lessa must fight to save Pern while navigating political intrigue, personal rivalries, and the complicated bond between humans and dragons. With its richly developed characters, detailed world-building, and thrilling action, Dragonflight is a classic in the genre of planetary romance that will delight fans of science fiction, fantasy, and adventure.
Embassytown by China Mieville
Embassytown by China Miéville is a remarkable otherworldly romance novel that takes readers on a mind-bending journey to the alien world of Arieka. In this thought-provoking tale, a human colony is established in Embassytown, a city inhabited by an enigmatic species called the Ariekei. The Ariekei communicate in a unique language that can only be spoken by specially trained ambassadors. When a new ambassador arrives in Embassytown, her abilities disrupt the delicate balance of the city and threaten its very existence. Miéville’s vivid writing style, intricate world-building, and exploration of language and identity make Embassytown a striking and mesmerizing entry in the genre of planetary romance.
The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin
The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin is a groundbreaking otherworldly romance book that explores themes of gender, identity, and cultural diversity. Set on the icy planet of Gethen, the story follows Genly Ai, a human envoy sent to establish diplomatic relations with the Gethenians, a species with no fixed gender. As Genly navigates the complex social and political structures of this androgynous society, he becomes entangled in a web of intrigue and power struggles that force him to question his own assumptions about gender and humanity. Le Guin’s masterful storytelling and thought-provoking themes make The Left Hand of Darkness a timeless classic in the genre.
Foreigner by C.J. Cherryh
Foreigner by C.J. Cherryh is an immersive and gripping planetary romance novel that transports readers to the alien world of Atevi. The story follows Bren Cameron, a human diplomat and translator who is thrust into a politically complex and dangerous situation as the sole intermediary between humans and the enigmatic Atevi species. As Bren immerses himself in the intricate Atevi culture, he becomes entangled in a web of political intrigue, personal loyalties, and the delicate balance of power between the two species. Cherryh’s masterful world-building, compelling characters, and intricate plot twists elevate Foreigner to a must-read for fans of the otherworldly romance genre.
Ammonite by Nicola Griffith
Ammonite by Nicola Griffith is a thought-provoking and daring otherworldly romance book that explores themes of gender, sexuality, and cultural identity. The story follows Marghe, a linguist and anthropologist dispatched to the remote planet of Jeep to study the mysterious and all-female society of the Ammonite. As Marghe immerses herself in the Ammonite culture, she becomes embroiled in a struggle for survival and power, forcing her to reassess her own beliefs and identity. Griffith’s intricate world-building, compelling characters, and exploration of societal norms and expectations make Ammonite a powerful and provocative addition to the planetary romance genre.
The Sky People by S.M. Stirling
The Sky People by S.M. Stirling is a thrilling and imaginative planetary romance novel that takes readers on an exhilarating journey to an alternate version of Mars. Set in the 1950s, the story follows a group of American explorers who discover a hidden valley on Mars filled with prehistoric creatures, remnants of long-lost civilizations, and a bizarre culture of warrior tribes. As the explorers struggle to survive and unravel the mysteries of this strange new world, they encounter unexpected allies and enemies, forcing them to question their own values and beliefs. Stirling’s vivid and detailed world-building, fast-paced action, and memorable characters make The Sky People a must-read for fans of the genre.
Barrayar by Lois McMaster Bujold
Barrayar by Lois McMaster Bujold is a thrilling and intricately plotted planetary romance novel that explores themes of politics, power, and family. Set in the fictional Vorkosigan universe, the story follows the plight of Cordelia Naismith, a starship captain and explorer who finds herself trapped on the war-torn and hostile planet of Barrayar. As Cordelia becomes increasingly entangled in the political machinations of the planet’s rulers, she struggles to find a way to protect her family and preserve her own values and beliefs. Bujold’s masterful storytelling, intricate world-building, and complex characters make Barrayar a must-read for fans of the planetary romance genre.
Almuric by Robert E. Howard
Almuric by Robert E. Howard is a classic and thrilling otherworldly romance book that takes readers on an action-packed adventure to a savage and dangerous world of alien races and brutal gladiatorial combat. The story follows the exploits of Esau Cairn, a tough and fearless Earthman who is transported to the distant planet of Almuric via a mysterious portal. Set upon by strange beasts and hostile tribes, Cairn must fight for his survival and uncover the secrets of this violent and primal world. Howard’s vivid and evocative writing style, dynamic action scenes, and larger-than-life hero make Almuric a must-read for fans of the genre.
Valentine Pontifex by Robert Silverberg
Valentine Pontifex by Robert Silverberg is a captivating and thought-provoking planetary romance novel that takes readers on a journey to the exotic and richly imagined world of Majipoor. The story follows the life of Valentine, a young prince who unexpectedly finds himself thrust into a position of power and responsibility as Pontifex, ruler of the vast empire. As he navigates the intricate politics and conflicts of Majipoor, Valentine must confront his own doubts and fears, making difficult choices that will shape the destiny of the planet and its inhabitants. Silverberg’s masterful world-building, compelling characters, and exploration of power and identity make Valentine Pontifex a standout in the planetary romance genre.
These ten exceptional planetary romance books whisk readers away to captivating and imaginative worlds, brimming with adventure, romance, and exploration. If you’re seeking thrilling escapades and expansive exploration, these otherworldly romance books are a must-read for any science fiction enthusiast.
The Cosmic Courtship by Julian Hawthorne (son of Nathaniel) is also a great retro-futuristic romance; one of my favorite reads in the last few years.