Cover of Ancillary Justice
Cover of Ancillary Sword
Cover of Ancillary Mercy
Cover of Translation State
Cover of Provenance
Series

Imperial Radch

5 books

Here are 5 books from the Imperial Radch series by Ann Leckie. Start with Ancillary Justice (2013), then read the rest in the order below. Books without a series number are listed in publication order.

Books in order

1
Cover of Ancillary Justice

Ancillary Justice

Ann Leckie

On a distant, frozen world, a lone soldier named Breq is driven by a singular purpose: to exact revenge. Once the Justice of Toren, a vast starship AI commanding countless human bodies, she now inhabits a single, vulnerable form after a devastating betrayal. Stripped of her empire and her identity, Breq embarks on a perilous journey across the galaxy, seeking justice for a past that haunts her. This epic space opera explores themes of identity, consciousness, and the corrupting nature of power, all told through a unique and compelling narrative voice.

Science FictionSpace OperaAdventure Fiction
2
Cover of Ancillary Sword

Ancillary Sword

Ann Leckie

Breq, a former warship now inhabiting a single human body, takes command of a troubled military crew in this stunning sequel to Ann Leckie's award-winning Ancillary Justice. Seeking redemption for her violent past, she accepts a dangerous assignment to protect the family of a lieutenant she once murdered—a mission that forces her to confront the consequences of her actions and the nature of identity itself. Leckie's Imperial Radch trilogy has established itself as a modern science fiction classic, blending philosophical depth with thrilling space opera as Breq navigates complex questions of loyalty, justice, and what it means to be human. With beautifully crafted prose and a richly imagined universe, this novel delivers both intellectual substance and explosive action, cementing Leckie's place among the genre's most innovative voices.

Science FictionSpace OperaMilitary History
3
Cover of Ancillary Mercy

Ancillary Mercy

Ann Leckie

In the thrilling conclusion to the Imperial Radch trilogy, Breq faces an impossible choice when a figure from a long-lost past surfaces, threatening to unravel the fragile peace. As an ancient enemy, the fractured ruler Anaander Mianaai, closes in, Breq must confront the very heart of a galaxy-spanning empire at war with itself. With the fate of countless lives hanging in the balance, Breq devises a desperate plan, proving that even the longest odds can't deter a determined spirit.

Science FictionSpace OperaAdventure Fiction
5
Cover of Translation State

Translation State

Ann Leckie

In a universe where communication is paramount, the disappearance of a skilled translator ignites a chain of events that spans galaxies. Three individuals, each from vastly different worlds and circumstances, find their destinies intertwined as they are drawn into a mystery with cosmic implications. As they navigate complex interstellar politics and ancient alien cultures, they uncover secrets that could reshape the very fabric of understanding between species. This thought-provoking novel explores themes of identity, connection, and the profound power of language in a universe teeming with diverse life.

Science FictionSpace Opera
Cover of Provenance

Provenance

Ann Leckie

In a universe where the origin and authenticity of objects—and people—are paramount, a young woman embarks on a desperate quest to prove her worth. To secure her inheritance and her family's legacy, she orchestrates the escape of a notorious thief, believing he holds the key to locating priceless stolen artifacts. However, her plan unravels when the thief's identity is questioned, and a looming interstellar conflict threatens her home world. This intricate tale explores themes of identity, belonging, and the true meaning of provenance amidst political turmoil and the unique integration of advanced mechs into daily life.

Science FictionSpace Opera