Arkady Martine’s A Memory Called Empire is a cerebral space opera exploring identity, empire, and cultural assimilation. Ambassador Mahit Dzmare arrives at the sprawling Teixcalaanli Empire to investigate her predecessor’s mysterious death. As she navigates political intrigue and societal expectations, she relies on the outdated memories of her predecessor implanted in her mind. The novel examines the tension between personal autonomy and collective memory, and the beauty and danger of empire. With poetic world-building and philosophical depth, it’s a Hugo Award-winning debut that blends political thriller with rich sci-fi speculation.
About Teixcalaan Series
This Hugo Award-winning space opera consists of A Memory Called Empire and A Desolation Called Peace. Ambassador Mahit Dzmare navigates the cultural, linguistic, and political complexity of the expansive Teixcalaanli Empire while grappling with a technological memory implant of her predecessor. As interstellar war looms, the series examines identity, colonialism, diplomacy, and the role of language in shaping thought. Richly written and intellectually provocative, it’s a cerebral sci-fi duology about power, empire, and the tension between assimilation and autonomy.
About Arkady Martine
An American author known for her Hugo Award-winning science fiction novels, A Memory Called Empire and A Desolation Called Peace. Martine's work blends political intrigue, cultural clashes, and the complexities of identity and communication in a richly detailed interstellar setting. Her intelligent and engaging narratives explore the nature of empire and the power of language.
Other Books by Arkady Martine
A Desolation Called Peace
Series: Teixcalaan (#2)
In this gripping sequel to A Memory Called Empire, the Teixcalaanli Empire faces a mysterious and deadly alien threat. Ambassador Mahit Dzmare and cultural liaison Three Seagrass are drawn into a war that tests diplomacy, loyalty, and identity. As battles rage and secrets emerge, the lines between empire and outsider blur. Martine’s rich prose and political insight deepen the stakes, offering a compelling exploration of language, colonialism, and connection. A Desolation Called Peace is a cerebral, emotionally resonant space opera that balances thrilling action with philosophical depth.
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