The Three-Body Problem by Liu Cixin

"The Three-Body Problem" is a science fiction novel by Chinese author Liu Cixin. It's the first book in the Remembrance of Earth's Past trilogy. The story begins during China's Cultural Revolution and follows scientist Ye Wenjie as she makes contact with an alien civilization. Decades later, another scientist, Wang Miao, gets involved in a mysterious virtual reality game that seems to hold the key to Earth's survival against an impending alien invasion. As Wang delves deeper into the game, he uncovers shocking truths about humanity's place in the universe and the challenges it faces. The novel explores complex scientific concepts, cultural and historical themes, and the potential consequences of human contact with extraterrestrial intelligence.