Death's End by Liu Cixin, translated by Ken Liu, concludes the trilogy with a grand, imaginative scope, praised for its scientific depth and philosophical inquiry. Positive remarks highlight its ambitious and thought-provoking narrative. However, critiques mention complex plotlines and dense scientific concepts that may overwhelm. Overall, it's a compelling but challenging read for sci-fi enthusiasts.

A reader who enjoys Death's End by Liu Cixin and Ken Liu likely appreciates complex hard science fiction with philosophical themes, intricate plots, and expansive universes. Fans of works like Foundation by Isaac Asimov or Dune by Frank Herbert would find its exploration of human civilization and advanced technology compelling.

Death's End, the final installment in Liu Cixin's Remembrance of Earth's Past trilogy, translated by Ken Liu, follows a person navigating the complex interplay of cosmic civilizations, advanced technologies, and existential threats. The narrative explores themes of survival, diplomacy, and the unfolding consequences of humanity's choices in a vast, interconnected universe.

Mysterious / Dark / Challenging / Adventurous / Contemplative

- Death's End, originally published in Chinese in 2010, is the final installment of Liu Cixin's acclaimed sci-fi trilogy, Remembrance of Earth's Past, which started with The Three-Body Problem.
- The English translation of Death's End by Ken Liu was published in 2016 and won the prestigious Locus Award for Best Science Fiction Novel in 2017.
- Liu Cixin's trilogy, including Death's End, has been praised for its imaginative and complex exploration of theoretical physics, earning acclaim from major figures in the science fiction community, such as George R.R. Martin and former U.S. President Barack Obama, who mentioned The Three-Body Problem among his favorite books.

**Cheng Xin**  
A propulsion engineer who becomes a significant figure in shaping humanity's destiny, navigating through time and struggling with the enormous responsibility of guiding human fate.

**Yun Tianming**  
An engineer who, despite his unrequited love for Cheng Xin, plays a pivotal role in humanity's future through his strategic actions and essential communication with the Trisolarans.

**Sophon**  
An AI android controlled by the Trisolarans, who interacts with humanity in various roles, providing both aid and posing threats depending on directives from her controllers.

**Thomas Wade**  
A government agent whose pragmatic and often ruthless approach to humanity's survival puts him at odds with Cheng Xin's empathetic outlook, representing a contrasting perspective on existential challenges.

**AA**  
An astrophysicist who befriends Cheng Xin, offering support and a more pragmatic view on survival as they navigate the changing universe together. 

**Luo Ji**  
Initially a scientist with minimal renown, he rises to hold a critical position of power where his understanding of cosmic threats plays a central role in the narrative.

**Guan Yifan**  
A character who first appears among those exploring the universe beyond the Solar System, later becoming a key companion to Cheng Xin in their shared experiences and endeavors.

Liu Cixin

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Death's End reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Death's End | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Death's End and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Death's End

Before You Read

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Death's End?

Reading Age

Book Details