12 Must-Read Authors for Fans of Kevin J. Anderson
Kevin J. Anderson is a master of grand-scale science fiction. Whether he's building his own epic universes like in The Saga of Seven Suns or masterfully expanding beloved franchises like Dune and Star Wars, his work is defined by accessible prose, relentless pacing, and a sheer sense of adventure. If you're looking for another author who delivers that same epic feel, you've come to the right place. This list is broken down by what you might enjoy most about his style.
For Lovers of Shared Universes
If you admire Anderson's contributions to franchises, these authors are masters at playing in someone else's sandbox and making it their own.
Often credited with revitalizing the Star Wars Expanded Universe, Timothy Zahn is the quintessential author for franchise fiction. His writing is intelligent and tactical, focusing on brilliant military strategy and complex characters who feel perfectly at home in the universe. He doesn't just write stories; he enriches the lore.
First Read: Heir to the Empire. This is the book that introduced the legendary Grand Admiral Thrawn and proved that tie-in fiction could be truly exceptional.
Stackpole is another titan of Star Wars literature, best known for his gritty, pilot's-eye view of the galactic conflict. He excels at writing military sci-fi with a strong sense of camaraderie and high-stakes action, focusing on the skilled but vulnerable heroes fighting the wars, much like Anderson's own X-wing stories.
First Read: X-Wing: Rogue Squadron. It’s a fast-paced military adventure that puts you right in the cockpit.
What Anderson did for Dune, Dan Abnett does for the sprawling, grimdark universe of Warhammer 40,000. He is incredibly prolific and has an unmatched talent for finding human stories within galaxy-spanning wars. His work is action-packed, character-driven, and serves as the perfect entry point into a massive setting.
First Read: Horus Rising. The book that kicked off the bestselling Horus Heresy series is a masterclass in sci-fi world-building and military drama.
For Architects of Epic Space Opera
If you're drawn to Anderson's original, galaxy-spanning sagas, these authors build universes with the same incredible scope and depth.
If you enjoy the scale of The Saga of Seven Suns but are ready for a step up in complexity, Peter F. Hamilton is your author. He is a modern master of epic space opera, weaving intricate plots with high-concept technology, detailed world-building, and massive casts of characters. His books are immersive, sprawling, and incredibly rewarding.
First Read: Pandora's Star. The start of the Commonwealth Saga, this novel is a stunning introduction to his richly imagined future.
The pen name for duo Daniel Abraham and Ty Franck, James S.A. Corey created one of the most celebrated modern space operas with The Expanse series. Their work combines the realistic physics of "hard" sci-fi with the political intrigue of a thriller and the character depth of a drama. It's a gripping, brilliantly constructed vision of humanity's future in the solar system.
First Read: Leviathan Wakes. This noir-infused space adventure will hook you from the very first chapter.
David Weber is the undisputed king of military science fiction. His Honor Harrington series is a masterwork of tactical space combat, interstellar politics, and world-building on a galactic scale. Fans of Anderson's large-scale conflicts will appreciate Weber's meticulous attention to detail and his creation of an iconic, formidable protagonist.
First Read: On Basilisk Station. Meet Honor Harrington, a brilliant naval officer whose career is just beginning. It’s the perfect entry into a beloved and massive series.
For Fans of High-Paced Adventure
If you love Anderson's books for their sheer readability, humor, and thrilling plots, these authors deliver pure, unadulterated fun.
John Scalzi writes science fiction that is witty, action-packed, and profoundly entertaining. His dialogue crackles, his concepts are clever, and his stories move at a breakneck pace. He tackles big ideas with a light touch, making his work both thought-provoking and incredibly fun to read, mirroring Anderson's talent for accessible adventure.
First Read: Old Man's War. A fresh and exciting take on the military sci-fi genre, full of humor and heart.
Famous for the Bobiverse series, Dennis E. Taylor blends big-idea sci-fi with a relatable, humorous protagonist. His stories are driven by problem-solving, exploration, and a sense of wonder. If you enjoy Anderson's ability to explore grand concepts without getting bogged down in dense prose, Taylor's clever and upbeat adventures are a perfect choice.
First Read: We Are Legion (We Are Bob). An incredibly imaginative story about a software engineer whose mind is uploaded into a self-replicating interstellar probe.
B.V. Larson is a powerhouse of prolific, action-first science fiction. His flagship series, Undying Mercenaries, is the literary equivalent of a summer blockbuster: explosive, fast-paced, and endlessly entertaining. Like Anderson, Larson knows how to deliver thrilling set pieces and keep the pages turning with a plot that never slows down.
First Read: Steel World. Jump into a universe of alien conquest and a protagonist who can be resurrected to fight another day.
For Readers Who Appreciate the Classics
These authors are foundational figures who, like Anderson, have produced a massive body of accessible and imaginative work over the years.
A highly versatile and prolific writer, Alan Dean Foster has penned original series and iconic novelizations (including for Star Wars and Alien). His work is characterized by a strong sense of wonder, exploration, and a classic adventure spirit. His writing is straightforward and engaging, making him a kindred spirit to Anderson.
First Read: Nor Crystal Tears. A fantastic first-contact story told from the alien perspective, showcasing his creativity and empathy.
The pen name for John G. Hemry, Jack Campbell specializes in military sci-fi with a heavy emphasis on naval tactics and the burdens of command. His Lost Fleet series is a long-running saga beloved for its realistic depiction of fleet combat and the ethical dilemmas faced by its hero, Captain "Black Jack" Geary.
First Read: Dauntless. The gripping start to a series about a legendary hero, revived from cryogenic sleep, who must lead a battered fleet home through enemy territory.
A beloved Star Wars author, the late Aaron Allston was known for infusing his action-packed stories with incredible humor and heart. He created memorable characters who felt like real people, complete with flaws, witty banter, and deep loyalties. His work shares Anderson's sense of fun and adventure, but with an added dose of comedy.
First Read: X-Wing: Wraith Squadron. A perfect blend of military action and character-driven comedy, following a squadron of misfits and geniuses.
Conclusion
Kevin J. Anderson's appeal lies in his ability to tell a huge, exciting story without sacrificing momentum. Whether you're looking for the intricate plotting of a grand space opera, the comfort of a familiar universe, or just a fast-paced adventure, the authors on this list offer fantastic new worlds to discover. Happy reading!