If you loved the way Too Like the Lightning dives deep into questions of utopia, society, and moral philosophy—especially through Mycroft's ruminations and the clash of different social orders—you'll be fascinated by The Dispossessed. Le Guin crafts a story that probes at the nature of freedom, obligation, and the social contract through Shevek’s journey between two contrasting worlds. It’s a cerebral, thought-provoking read that lingers long after you turn the last page.

If you were captivated by the complex world of Too Like the Lightning—with its Hive system, historical depth, and subtle power plays between leaders like Madame and Saladin—you’ll be equally enthralled by Dune. Herbert’s universe is built on centuries of history, with intricate customs, religions, and political factions all vying for control. The subtle manipulations and grand ambitions will keep you riveted.

If Mycroft’s unreliable narration and ambiguous ethics—balancing compassion and violence in a world that demands hard choices—kept you invested in Too Like the Lightning, you’ll be drawn to Baru Cormorant’s journey. Dickinson’s novel is a masterclass in moral compromise, as Baru schemes her way through a brutal empire, making sacrifices that test her own ideals. Expect high-stakes intrigue and a protagonist you’ll root for even as you question her decisions.

If the interplay of philosophy, science, and society in Too Like the Lightning—such as the debates about causality, faith, and enlightenment—sparked your curiosity, Anathem will speak to you. Stephenson’s cloistered scholars grapple with abstract questions and real-world consequences, and the world is built around the pursuit of knowledge. It’s a dense, challenging novel that rewards careful readers with profound ideas.

If you enjoyed following Mycroft and the wide cast of enigmatic characters—from Bridger to the various Hive leaders—in Too Like the Lightning, you’ll relish the ambitious scope of Quicksilver. Stephenson weaves together the lives of scientists, spies, and philosophers across continents and decades, with interconnected plots and shifting perspectives. It’s a grand tapestry of personalities and ideas that rewards attentive, adventurous readers.