This Top Ten Tuesday we are supposed to talk about the books that we want Santa to leave under our tree. I feel like that’s going to spoil my year end Top Ten List a bit, so I decided to alter it. Have you ever noticed that when you ask people to name off famous science fiction and horror writers, they almost always name guys? Stephen King, Isaac Asimov, etc. Well, the science fiction and horror genres are indisputably male-dominated. So you have to wade in a bit to find the female authors who are making waves in the big boy’s ponds. But they are there, and they’re definitely worth searching for.

The following list is comprised of the best 10 science fiction & horror books written by women that I’ve read in 2016. Books that I want Santa to leave under my tree that I can shove in naysayer’s faces.

This list is in no particular order. You’ll find new writers nestled up against those with solidly established reputations. Science fiction writers will bump elbows with horror writers.  There’ll be something for everyone, and at least one person reading this will be offended that I didn’t include their favorite writer on this list. (Feel free to add to the list in the comments below.)

Top Ten Tuesday is brought to you courtesy of Broke and Bookish.

(Pictures lead to Goodreads, Links go to Amazon.)

10 Science Fiction & Horror Books Written by Women

1. Damocles by S.G. Redling – For when you need hope, and wonder, and a look at the stars that doesn’t end in violence, hatred, or disillusionment.  Damocles by S.G. Redling is a shining example of what science fiction means to me.
2. Through the Woods by Emily Carroll – This is the first graphic novel that I ever read and truly enjoyed. And even months later, the images stay with me. Emily Carroll did a fantastic job on this book, and in my opinion, it’s a must for any horror fan.
3. The Lathe of Heaven by Ursula K. Le Guin – If you haven’t read this book, you need to stop what you’re doing and rectify the situation. Immediately. The Lathe of Heaven was one of those books that blow you away. After you get done thinking deep thoughts, you’ll want to kneel at this lady’s feet.
4. Just One Damned Thing After Another by Jodi Taylor – Can I say enough good things about the St. Mary’s Chronicles? I think not. Beautiful, wonderful, laugh-out-loud, and wanna-smack-someone. The Chronicles of St. Mary’s is a series that will warm your heart, excite your spirit, and make you want a family like St. Mary’s.
5. Frankenstein by Mary Shelley – Though I didn’t read the typical version of Frankenstein, I’m still in awe of Mary Shelley, and what she accomplished in Frankenstein. Everyone knows the story of Dr. Frankenstein and his monster, even if they haven’t read the book. It’s a book that people are always going to know of, and that is an accomplishment in and of itself.
6. Shadows of Tomorrow by Jessica Meats – Jessica Meats did a great job in presenting a world fighting back against an alien force. She gives us heroes we can root for, unexpected twists, and action that just keeps going.
7. Fury by Joan De La Haye – If you’re looking for disturbing imagery, and a delicious tale of revenge, look no further than Fury. Joan De La Haye packs a ton of gory horror in a small package in Fury.
8. The Spirit Chaser by Kat Mayor – The ending of this book. I love it because it’s a dark glimpse into possession and the damages that it wrecks on everyone. And because it’s an awesome ghost book. But mostly? It’s the ending that I can’t forget. Holy crap. That ending.
9. The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers – It filled the Firefly-shaped hole in my heart. What can I say?
10. Shutter by Courtney Alameda – Clean, young adult horror that isn’t afraid to be dark and disturbing. Courtney Alameda gives you an easy, creepy read that you’ll want to come back to for at least one more round of.

There you have it. Looking back, and I’m quite pleased with the science fiction and horror books I’ve read written by women in 2016. Don’t forget, ladies, you are fierce. No matter what some orange-skinned troll says.

Feel free to link me to your lists for Top Ten Tuesday.