Red Rising

by Pierce Brown
Red Rising cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)
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Paperback • £10.99 Hardback • £20.00
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Technical
  • ID: 4306
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9780593871522
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2025-10-14
  • Formats: 3
  • Reviews: 3

Red Rising (Deluxe Slipcase Edition) is the first novel in Pierce Brown's iconic Red Rising Saga, presented in a stunning deluxe hardcover edition with illustrated slipcase, foil detailing, and exclusive artwork. The story follows Darrow, a Red, the lowest caste in a futuristic society on Mars, who toils under the belief that his work is making the planet habitable for future generations. However, he discovers a devastating truth that changes everything. Driven by the memory of his lost love, Darrow embarks on a dangerous mission to infiltrate the Institute, a training ground for the ruling Gold caste, where he must become one of them to bring down their oppressive regime. The novel is praised for its intense action and intricate world-building, making it a standout in the science fiction genre. This deluxe edition features additional content such as a fold-out poster and full-color illustrated endpapers with a new map, enhancing the reading experience. The Red Rising Saga has been acclaimed for its top-notch plotting and meteoric rise in popularity, with comparisons to classic science fiction and dystopian works. The series continues with several sequels, expanding the richly detailed world and its complex characters.

Reviews
Kellread · 2021-08-08
fantastic 4.50

This book blends elements from various popular dystopian and fantasy series, creating a unique and engaging narrative. The fusion of different genres and historical influences makes it a standout read.

This reviewer found that 'Red Rising' masterfully combines elements from well-known series like 'The Hunger Games,' 'Percy Jackson,' and 'Divergent,' along with Roman history and mythology. The result is a richly layered story that offers something for fans of multiple genres. They particularly appreciated how the book weaves together these diverse influences to create a compelling and original narrative. The reviewer also noted that the book's setting and world-building are particularly strong, making it a captivating read from start to finish.

Quick quotes

    This book was an amalgamation of Lore, Hunger Games, Percy Jackson, and Divergent as well as Roman History and mythology in all the best ways.

    The world-building is fantastic, and the story is engaging from the very beginning.

    The characters are well-developed, and their arcs are compelling, making it hard to put the book down.

Grimdark Magazine · 2020-08-15
thrilling 4.50

The book is a thrilling ride with well-crafted characters and story arcs that ignite the imagination. The pacing and action sequences are particularly noteworthy.

They described 'Red Rising' as a non-stop thrill ride, praising the book's well-thought-out characters and story arcs. The reviewer found the pacing to be excellent, with action sequences that keep the reader on the edge of their seat. They also appreciated the depth of the world-building and the complexity of the characters, which add layers to the story. The reviewer noted that the book's blend of political intrigue and personal drama makes it a standout in the genre.

Quick quotes

    A non-stop thrill ride with magnificent, well thought out characters and story arcs that will set your imagination afire.

    The pacing is excellent, with action sequences that keep the reader engaged throughout.

    The world-building is rich and immersive, making it easy to get lost in the story.

Claire Huston · Claire Huston · 2017-02-13
mixed 3.00

The story starts strong but begins to drag as it progresses, losing some of its initial momentum. Despite this, the underlying themes and ideas are compelling.

Claire Huston noted that 'Red Rising' starts off at a good pace, but the momentum slows down as the story progresses. They found that the initial excitement and tension give way to a more drawn-out narrative, which can be a bit disappointing. However, they appreciated the underlying themes and ideas that the book explores, such as class struggle and rebellion. The reviewer also mentioned that the characters are well-developed, which helps to keep the reader engaged even during the slower parts of the story.

Quick quotes

    The story starts well, setting off at a good pace, but it isn't long before things begin to drag a little.

    The underlying themes and ideas are compelling, making it worth pushing through the slower parts.

    The characters are well-developed, which helps to keep the reader engaged.

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