by Brian Aldiss (1985)
From back cover of Ace paperback May 1987: Image Helliconia -- a world at the end of a reign that has lasted nearly two thousand years. The glorious civilization that blossomed during spring and summer has faded, and the dismal wasteland of winter is rapidly destroying the human race. For it is the chill end of the Great Year, the 2500 year cycle in which each season gives way to a new oppressor. And now, as winter approaches and the numbers of mankind dwindle, the barbaric phagors prepare to seize their chance to rule again. And they will succeed. Unless mankind can be united to stop them.
Tim Powers
An early (1985 but based on earlier work) Powers novel with many of his usual themes such as alcoholism, vampirism, possession, erosion of the self, and the weight of one's past. Set in a post-apocalyptic LA area. Not as good as The Anubis Gates or Last Call, but still wildly inventive and full of beautiful imagery. It won the Philip K. Dick Award and was nominated for a Nebula. Note: pretty brutal in parts.
David Brin
This is the story of a lie that became the most powerful kind of truth. A timeless novel as urgently compelling as War Day or Alas, Babylon, David Brin's The Postman is the dramatically moving saga of a man who rekindled the spirit of America through the power of a dream, from a modern master of science fiction.He was a survivor--a wanderer who traded tales for food and shelter in the dark and savage aftermath of a devastating war. Fate touches him one chill winter's day when he borrows the jacket of a long-dead postal worker to protect himself from the cold. The old, worn uniform still has power as a symbol of hope, and with it he begins to weave his greatest tale, of a nation on the road to recovery.From the Paperback edition.
Kim Stanley Robinson
The Gold Coast is a celebrated work by Kim Stanley Robinson (Multi-Hugo & Nebula Winner), recognized for masterclass storytelling and lasting literary resonance.
Gene Wolfe
Book of the New Sun is a celebrated work by Gene Wolfe (World Fantasy Award Winner, Nebula Winner), recognized for masterclass storytelling and lasting literary resonance.