If you’re a fan of dystopian young adult novels like The Darkest Minds series, you’re in for a treat. This genre is packed with thrilling adventures, complex characters, and gripping storylines that keep you hooked from start to finish. Below, you’ll find a list of 20 books that offer the same level of excitement and intrigue.
Books Similar to The Darkest Minds Series
1. Divergent
Veronica Roth’s Divergent takes place in a future society divided into five factions, each dedicated to a particular virtue. The story follows Tris Prior as she discovers she’s Divergent and uncovers a conspiracy to destroy all Divergents. This book is a must-read for fans of action-packed dystopias.
2. The Maze Runner
James Dashner’s The Maze Runner is a thrilling adventure where a group of boys find themselves trapped in a mysterious maze with no memory of their past. As they try to escape, they uncover dark secrets about their situation. This book offers a blend of mystery and high-stakes action that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
3. Legend
Marie Lu’s Legend follows two teenagers from different worlds: June, a prodigy from the Republic, and Day, the country’s most wanted criminal. Their paths cross when June’s brother is murdered, and Day becomes the prime suspect. This gripping tale of cat and mouse is perfect for fans of The Darkest Minds.
4. The Hunger Games
Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games is a dystopian classic where teenagers are forced to compete in a televised death match. Katniss Everdeen becomes a symbol of rebellion against the oppressive regime. This series is a staple for anyone interested in dystopian fiction.
5. Shatter Me
Tahereh Mafi’s Shatter Me centers on Juliette, a girl with a lethal touch. Imprisoned for her ability, she gets a chance at freedom when the Reestablishment wants to use her as a weapon. This book combines romance, action, and supernatural elements in a dystopian setting.
6. Red Queen
Victoria Aveyard’s Red Queen introduces a world divided by blood—those with red blood serve the silver-blooded elite, who possess superhuman abilities. Mare Barrow, a red-blooded girl with unexpected powers, becomes a symbol of rebellion. This book is a captivating blend of fantasy and dystopia.
7. The 5th Wave
Rick Yancey’s The 5th Wave follows Cassie Sullivan as she navigates a world devastated by alien invasions. With humanity on the brink of extinction, Cassie must fight to survive and save her brother. This book is perfect for fans of intense, apocalyptic scenarios.
8. Matched
Ally Condie’s Matched is set in a society where the government dictates every aspect of life, including whom you marry. Cassia Reyes begins to question the system when she falls in love with someone other than her assigned match. This book is a thought-provoking exploration of freedom and choice.
9. The Giver
Lois Lowry’s The Giver is a classic dystopian novel where a young boy named Jonas is chosen to inherit the memories of the past, revealing the dark truths behind his seemingly perfect society. This book is a profound and moving read that challenges the concept of utopia.
10. Delirium
Lauren Oliver’s Delirium imagines a world where love is considered a disease. Lena Haloway eagerly awaits her treatment until she falls in love, questioning everything she’s been taught. This book is a compelling mix of romance and dystopian elements.
11. The Selection
Kiera Cass’s The Selection is a dystopian fairy tale where 35 girls compete for the heart of Prince Maxon. America Singer reluctantly enters the competition, only to find herself torn between two worlds. This book offers a unique blend of romance and political intrigue.
12. Uglies
Scott Westerfeld’s Uglies is set in a world where everyone undergoes surgery at 16 to become “pretty.” Tally Youngblood can’t wait for her transformation until she learns the dark side of the procedure. This book is a thought-provoking exploration of beauty standards and conformity.
13. Gone
Michael Grant’s Gone features a world where everyone over 15 suddenly disappears, leaving kids to fend for themselves. As society crumbles, some develop supernatural abilities. This book is a gripping survival story with a supernatural twist.
14. The Knife of Never Letting Go
Patrick Ness’s The Knife of Never Letting Go is set in a world where everyone can hear each other’s thoughts. Todd Hewitt discovers a secret that forces him to flee for his life. This book is a fast-paced, thought-provoking read that explores themes of privacy and control.
15. An Ember in the Ashes
Sabaa Tahir’s An Ember in the Ashes follows Laia, a slave, and Elias, a soldier, as they fight against a brutal empire. Their intertwined fates reveal deep secrets and spark a rebellion. This book is a powerful tale of resistance and courage.
16. The Young Elites
Marie Lu’s The Young Elites introduces a world where survivors of a deadly illness gain extraordinary powers. Adelina Amouteru, shunned for her abilities, joins a group of similarly gifted individuals. This book is a dark and thrilling exploration of power and revenge.
17. The Bone Season
Samantha Shannon’s The Bone Season features a future where clairvoyants are hunted. Paige Mahoney, a powerful clairvoyant, is captured and discovers a hidden society. This book is a richly imagined dystopian tale with a unique supernatural twist.
18. The Program
Suzanne Young’s The Program is set in a world where suicide is an epidemic, and “The Program” promises to cure those affected. Sloane and James fight to keep their memories and love intact. This book is a poignant exploration of mental health and control.
19. The Testing
Joelle Charbonneau’s The Testing follows Cia Vale as she competes in a series of tests to enter university in a post-apocalyptic world. The tests are more dangerous than they seem, and failure means death. This book is a thrilling and suspenseful read.
20. Carve the Mark
Veronica Roth’s Carve the Mark is set in a galaxy where everyone has a unique power. Akos and Cyra, from warring nations, must work together to survive. This book is a captivating blend of sci-fi and dystopia, perfect for fans of complex world-building and character dynamics.