In the realm of science fiction and fantasy, few series have captured the imagination quite like Red Rising by Pierce Brown. This genre is known for its intricate world-building, complex characters, and thrilling plots. If you’re a fan of Red Rising and are looking for your next great read, here are 15 books that deliver similar excitement and depth.
Books Similar to Top Red Rising
1. The Hunger Games
Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games introduces readers to a dystopian world where children are forced to fight to the death in televised games. The series is a gripping tale of survival, rebellion, and the human spirit. Fans of Red Rising will appreciate the strong, resourceful protagonist and the intense, high-stakes action.
2. Ender’s Game
Orson Scott Card’s Ender’s Game tells the story of a young boy, Ender Wiggin, who is recruited into a military academy to prepare for an alien invasion. This novel is celebrated for its strategic depth and psychological complexity. Readers who enjoyed the tactical elements and character development in Red Rising will find much to love here.
3. Mistborn: The Final Empire
Brandon Sanderson’s Mistborn: The Final Empire is set in a world where ash falls from the sky and mist dominates the night. The story follows a group of rebels with magical abilities as they attempt to overthrow a tyrannical ruler. Fans of Red Rising will be drawn to the rich world-building and the theme of revolution.
4. Dune
Frank Herbert’s Dune is a science fiction epic set on the desert planet Arrakis, where control of the spice melange is key to power. The novel explores themes of politics, religion, and human nature. Those who enjoyed the intricate plot and expansive universe of Red Rising will find Dune equally compelling.
5. The Expanse: Leviathan Wakes
James S.A. Corey’s Leviathan Wakes, the first book in The Expanse series, blends space opera with noir detective fiction. The story follows a disparate group of characters as they uncover a conspiracy that threatens humanity. Fans of Red Rising will appreciate the blend of action, mystery, and political intrigue.
6. Snow Crash
Neal Stephenson’s Snow Crash is a cyberpunk classic that delves into a futuristic America dominated by corporate-controlled city-states. The protagonist, Hiro Protagonist, is a hacker and samurai sword fighter. Readers who enjoyed the fast-paced action and unique world of Red Rising will find Snow Crash a thrilling read.
7. Altered Carbon
Richard K. Morgan’s Altered Carbon is set in a future where consciousness can be transferred between bodies, effectively rendering death obsolete. The story follows Takeshi Kovacs, a former soldier turned private investigator. Fans of Red Rising will enjoy the dark, gritty atmosphere and the complex, morally ambiguous characters.
8. The Broken Empire: Prince of Thorns
Mark Lawrence’s Prince of Thorns introduces readers to Jorg Ancrath, a ruthless prince on a quest for vengeance. The novel is known for its dark tone and anti-hero protagonist. Those who were captivated by the morally complex characters and brutal world of Red Rising will find Prince of Thorns equally engrossing.
9. The First Law: The Blade Itself
Joe Abercrombie’s The Blade Itself is the first book in The First Law trilogy, a grimdark fantasy series filled with violence, political intrigue, and dark humor. The story follows several characters, including a crippled torturer and a barbarian warrior. Fans of Red Rising will appreciate the gritty realism and complex character dynamics.
10. The Dark Tower: The Gunslinger
Stephen King’s The Gunslinger is the first book in The Dark Tower series, blending elements of fantasy, horror, and westerns. The story follows Roland Deschain, the last gunslinger, on his quest to reach the Dark Tower. Readers who enjoyed the epic journey and rich mythology of Red Rising will find The Gunslinger a captivating start to a legendary series.
11. The Fifth Season
N.K. Jemisin’s The Fifth Season is set in a world plagued by constant seismic activity, where certain people have the ability to control earthquakes. The novel explores themes of oppression and survival. Fans of Red Rising will be drawn to the strong, multifaceted characters and the innovative world-building.
12. Ready Player One
Ernest Cline’s Ready Player One takes place in a dystopian future where people escape their harsh realities by immersing themselves in a virtual reality world called the OASIS. The story follows Wade Watts as he embarks on a quest to find a hidden Easter egg that will grant him immense wealth and power. Fans of Red Rising will enjoy the blend of adventure, nostalgia, and futuristic technology.
13. The Name of the Wind
Patrick Rothfuss’ The Name of the Wind is the first book in The Kingkiller Chronicle, following the life of the legendary figure Kvothe. The novel is renowned for its lyrical prose and deep character development. Readers who appreciated the storytelling and character arcs in Red Rising will find The Name of the Wind equally enchanting.
14. Neuromancer
William Gibson’s Neuromancer is a seminal work in the cyberpunk genre, following a washed-up computer hacker named Case who is hired for one last job. The novel delves into themes of artificial intelligence and virtual reality. Fans of Red Rising will appreciate the fast-paced narrative and the exploration of futuristic technology.
15. Old Man’s War
John Scalzi’s Old Man’s War is set in a future where elderly citizens are recruited to fight in an interstellar war, their bodies rejuvenated with advanced technology. The novel is known for its humor, action, and thought-provoking themes. Readers who enjoyed the military aspects and speculative elements of Red Rising will find Old Man’s War a compelling read.