I'm with you. I don't care for the "hard core" science fiction---I prefer a light read with, yes, some formulaic plots. That's why I read fiction.
Nelson DeMille's new book, "Nightfall," about TWA 800 is very good.
Also, if you want a VERY different Christian fiction, look at the trilogy by Ted Dekker, "Black," "Red," "White." It's too much to even begin to describe here.
Yeah we are on the same page. I can't stand actual sci-fi, never cared for it at all. And while Jurassic Park does qualify, obviously, as sci fi, I think it's much more valuable as a work of philosophy. I'll have to bookmark your post and check out your suggestions. I don't think I've ever really read anything that qualifies as Christian fiction; I'll have to take a look at your recommendation. TBG