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    Books Like Red Rising: 10 Reads You'll Love

    If you want more of Red Rising's sci-fi, start with The Martian.

    Updated July 2026

    Books like Red Rising: 10 picks. Hand-picked reads with the same mood and themes, from The Martian to Dune.

    Pierce Brown's Red Rising burst onto the science fiction scene with the force of a supernova, quickly captivating readers with its brutal yet brilliant vision of a stratified society and the audacious rebellion sparked by a single, defiant Darrow. It's a saga that combines the visceral thrill of gladiatorial combat with the intricate chess game of political intrigue, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of a colonized solar system. Readers are drawn to its relentless pace, the unflinching exploration of class warfare, and the compelling journey of a hero forged in the fires of vengeance and hope. What truly sets Red Rising apart is its masterful blend of pulse-pounding action, complex character development, and profound philosophical questions about power, freedom, and the cost of revolution. Brown crafts a world brimming with tension, where every alliance is fragile and every victory hard-won. The series resonates deeply with those who crave stories of underdogs rising against overwhelming odds, of found families fighting for a cause greater than themselves, and of the moral ambiguities inherent in any struggle for liberation. If you've devoured Darrow's epic and are hungering for more tales that offer similar thrills, intricate worlds, and unforgettable characters, you've come to the right place. Get ready to discover your next obsession with these books that capture the spirit of Red Rising.
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    10 books like Red Rising

    A ranked list of books similar to Red Rising — if you liked it, start at the top and work down. Each pick includes why it works and who it's for.

    1

    The Martian

    by Andy Weir

    While not a rebellion story, The Martian shares Red Rising's emphasis on a resourceful protagonist facing impossible odds, forced to use their intellect to survive in a hostile environment. Mark Watney's sheer ingenuity and determination against the brutal realities of Mars will appeal to those who admire Darrow's cunning and resilience.

    2

    Dune

    by Frank Herbert

    Frank Herbert's Dune is a foundational epic of political intrigue, chosen ones, and rebellion against oppressive regimes, much like Red Rising. The intricate world-building, deep philosophical themes, and the story of Paul Atreides leading a desert people to revolt will resonate strongly with fans of Darrow's fight against the Golds.

    5

    Saga

    by Brian K. Vaughan & Fiona Staples

    If the found family aspect and the relentless pursuit of freedom against an oppressive system in Red Rising appealed to you, then the graphic novel series Saga is a must-read. It follows a star-crossed family on the run, showcasing intense action, emotional depth, and stunning world-building that mirrors Red Rising's epic scope.

    10

    Skyward

    by Brandon Sanderson

    If you loved the intense underdog training, aerial combat, and the fight against a seemingly invincible enemy in Red Rising, Brandon Sanderson's Skyward is an excellent choice. Spensa's burning desire to become a pilot and prove her worth in a world threatened by alien invaders mirrors Darrow's drive and determination.

    Why readers loved Red Rising

    Pierce Brown's Red Rising burst onto the science fiction scene with the force of a supernova, quickly captivating readers with its brutal yet brilliant vision of a stratified society and the audacious rebellion sparked by a single, defiant Darrow. It's a saga that combines the visceral thrill of gladiatorial combat with the intricate chess game of political intrigue, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of a colonized solar system. Readers are drawn to its relentless pace, the unflinching exploration of class warfare, and the compelling journey of a hero forged in the fires of vengeance and hope.

    Across thousands of reviews, readers keep coming back to the same notes: sci-fi, fantasy, magic. Every book on this list was chosen because it delivers on at least two of those threads.

    Shared themes & tropes

    The threads that connect these recommendations to Red Rising.

    Who this list is for

    Age group

    Young Adult
    Adult

    Genre fit

    Fantasy
    Thriller / Mystery
    Sci-Fi
    Literary Fiction

    Perfect for readers who want…

    • sci-fi — without losing what made Red Rising special.
    • fantasy — without losing what made Red Rising special.
    • magic — without losing what made Red Rising special.
    • space opera — without losing what made Red Rising special.
    • war — without losing what made Red Rising special.
    • survival — without losing what made Red Rising special.

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