by Larry Niven
First published 1990
Astronomers spot mysterious dots moving from Saturn toward Earth. The objects prove to be alien spacecraft from another star system. Scientists attempt to communicate with the visitors, but receive no response. The aliens announce their presence by attacking a Soviet space station and capturing the crew. They follow this assault by bombarding Earth with asteroids, systematically destroying every major dam and installation across the planet. The invaders then land in the American heartland and issue an ultimatum to humanity. They demand complete submission and servile surrender from all nations. The alternative they offer is simple: total extermination of the human race. Earth's survivors must now decide whether to fight against overwhelming odds or accept permanent enslavement under alien rule.
Genres: science-fiction, action, aliens, apocalyptic
Vibes: fast-paced, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Earth, Saturn
Period: 20th-century
700 pages · Paperback · Orbit