books like red rising
If you’ve finished Red Rising by Pierce Brown and are itching for more epic adventures, intriguing characters, and complex political landscapes, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re a fan of science fiction, dystopian novels, or gripping tales of rebellion, there are plenty of books like Red Rising that will captivate your imagination and keep you on the edge of your seat.
This article will explore 10 of the best books like Red Rising, offering thrilling, complex narratives that mirror some of the key themes of Brown’s work. So, if you’re ready to discover your next great read, let’s dive in!
1. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
It’s almost impossible to talk about dystopian novels without mentioning The Hunger Games. This series has been a benchmark for modern dystopian fiction, much like Red Rising. Set in a future where society is divided into districts, Katniss Everdeen becomes the face of rebellion after being forced to fight for survival in a brutal televised event called the Hunger Games.
Like Red Rising, The Hunger Games focuses on themes of oppression, rebellion, and sacrifice, with a strong and resourceful protagonist. Katniss is a symbol of hope for the downtrodden, and her journey mirrors that of Darrow, both of them fighting against the odds to upend a cruel societal system. If you haven’t read this series yet, it’s an absolute must.
2. Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card
Ender’s Game is a science fiction classic that has captivated readers for decades. The novel centers on Ender Wiggin, a young boy recruited to an elite military school in space to train for an impending war with an alien species. The story’s exploration of leadership, strategy, and personal sacrifice makes it similar to Red Rising, where Darrow must navigate the treacherous politics of society to achieve his goals.
Both books focus on young protagonists who rise through the ranks in order to challenge oppressive regimes. If you love complex, multi-layered stories with a focus on leadership, Ender’s Game is definitely a book you should check out.
3. The Maze Runner by James Dashner
The Maze Runner is another popular dystopian series that will appeal to fans of Red Rising. The story revolves around a group of teenagers trapped in a mysterious maze with no memory of how they got there. As they struggle to survive and uncover the secrets behind their predicament, they are forced to work together, much like the characters in Red Rising, who must rely on alliances to achieve their goals.
Both novels share themes of survival, leadership, and fighting against a system that seeks to control and manipulate. Dashner’s series is fast-paced and packed with suspense, making it an excellent choice for fans of action-packed dystopian narratives.
4. The Broken Earth Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin
If you’re looking for a series that combines fantasy, sci-fi, and dystopian themes, N.K. Jemisin’s The Broken Earth trilogy is a must-read. The first book, The Fifth Season, introduces a world plagued by cataclysmic seismic events, where certain individuals have the power to manipulate the earth itself. In this world, the power struggles between those who control the earth and those who are oppressed are central to the plot.
Much like Red Rising, Jemisin’s work explores themes of social hierarchy, oppression, and the desire for revenge. The trilogy’s intricate world-building, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes make it a perfect choice for fans of Red Rising who enjoy more nuanced and imaginative dystopian settings.
5. The Expanse Series by James S.A. Corey
The Expanse series is a must-read for fans of space opera and hard science fiction. The first book, Leviathan Wakes, kicks off a story set in a future where humanity has colonized the solar system. The book blends political intrigue, war, and mystery, much like Red Rising‘s focus on rebellion and power struggles.
What makes The Expanse series particularly appealing is its detailed world-building and complex political dynamics. If you enjoy the space setting of Red Rising and the intricate webs of alliances and betrayals, The Expanse is an excellent choice for your next read.
6. The Lightbringer Series by Brent Weeks
Brent Weeks’ Lightbringer series is a high-fantasy saga that combines action, intrigue, and a richly built world, much like Red Rising. The story centers around Kip, a young man with a powerful and dangerous gift, who finds himself caught in a complex web of politics, war, and rebellion.
If you love Red Rising’s action-packed, fast-paced narrative and its exploration of personal power and moral choices, you’ll likely enjoy The Lightbringer Series. The novels’ exploration of politics, war, and the cost of power are themes that echo through both series.
7. The First Law Trilogy by Joe Abercrombie
Joe Abercrombie’s The First Law Trilogy is another great choice for fans of Red Rising who are looking for something darker and more gritty. The first book, The Blade Itself, introduces a morally complex world where the lines between heroism and villainy are often blurred. The story follows a diverse group of characters, each with their own motivations and flaws, as they navigate a world on the brink of war.
Like Red Rising, The First Law Trilogy explores power, loyalty, and rebellion, with a focus on flawed but compelling characters. Abercrombie’s dark humor, brutal violence, and moral ambiguity make this series a thrilling read for fans of complex, character-driven stories.
8. Altered Carbon by Richard K. Morgan
Set in a dystopian future where consciousness can be transferred between bodies, Altered Carbon is a cyberpunk novel that explores themes of identity, power, and social inequality. The story follows Takeshi Kovacs, a former soldier turned private investigator, as he unravels a conspiracy that threatens to destabilize the entire social order.
The book’s exploration of class and power dynamics will resonate with fans of Red Rising, as will its fast-paced action and morally complex characters. If you love sci-fi with a noir twist and a deep dive into social issues, Altered Carbon is an excellent choice.
9. The Red Queen’s War Trilogy by Mark Lawrence
If you’re looking for a fantasy series with a strong, determined protagonist who navigates a world full of danger and political intrigue, Mark Lawrence’s Red Queen’s War trilogy is perfect for you. The story follows Jalan Kendeth, a prince with a knack for avoiding danger, who is suddenly thrust into a conflict that forces him to confront his own weaknesses and the brutal world around him.
Much like Darrow in Red Rising, Jalan is forced to step up in a world that is out of his control. The series combines elements of fantasy and action with sharp character development, making it an excellent choice for fans of Red Rising who enjoy a dark and gritty narrative.
10. Scythe by Neal Shusterman
In Scythe, society has reached a point where death has been conquered, and the only way to maintain population control is through an organization of individuals who are tasked with “gleaning” people. The story follows two teens, Citra and Rowan, who are selected to become apprentices to a scythe—a position that will force them to grapple with moral and ethical questions about life and death.
This thought-provoking series shares many thematic elements with Red Rising, including the exploration of power structures and personal sacrifice. If you’re drawn to dystopian stories that tackle ethical dilemmas and feature young protagonists, Scythe is an excellent choice.
Conclusion
If you loved Red Rising and are searching for your next great read, these 10 books offer a diverse array of dystopian, sci-fi, and fantasy stories with similar themes of rebellion, power, and survival. Whether you’re drawn to political intrigue, character-driven narratives, or action-packed adventures, each of these books provides a thrilling escape into worlds full of danger, complexity, and hope.
From The Hunger Games and Ender’s Game to The Broken Earth Trilogy and Altered Carbon, there’s something for every fan of Red Rising. So pick up one (or more) of these incredible books, and let yourself be swept away into new worlds of unforgettable characters and epic battles. Happy reading!
