I haven't read 2 of these, but the Three Body Problem is a vividly written and interesting sci fi novel. The language is exceptionally colorful and striking, probably because it's translated but I would definitely recommend it.
Discussion
How depressing is it? The Mandibles put me in a dark place for a couple of days 😞 I liked it but it was heavy.
I tried to read the mandibles and couldn't get through it. It's too grim. Prescient, from the few chapters I did read, but godamn it's dark.
Three Body Problem is not a depressing read IMO although there are sections that are dark, like snippets of the cultural revolution.
I thought Three Body Problem was depressing 😂 especially the end.
Ken Liu is a great translator and author in his own right.