Red Rising

by Pierce Brown
Red Rising cover
Good Books rating 4.11
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
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Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99 Hardback • £20.00
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 4306
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9780593871522
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2025-10-14
  • Formats: 3
  • Reviews: 4

Red Rising (Deluxe Slipcase Edition) is a stunningly presented version of the first novel in Pierce Brown's iconic Red Rising Saga. This deluxe hardcover edition features an illustrated slipcase with foil, designed sprayed edges, new cover art, a fold-out poster, and full-color illustrated endpapers with a new map. The story follows Darrow, a Red, who toils under the belief that he is making Mars habitable for future generations. However, he discovers a devastating truth that changes his life forever. Driven by the memory of lost love, Darrow infiltrates the legendary Institute, a proving ground for the dominant Gold caste, where he will stop at nothing to bring down his enemies, even if it means becoming one of them. The novel has been praised for its meteoric plot and top-notch storytelling, making it a must-read for fans of science fiction and adventure. /n/n The deluxe edition of Red Rising is not just a story of rebellion and vengeance but also a tale of sacrifice and transformation. Darrow's journey is filled with intense action, political intrigue, and emotional depth, making it a compelling read. The novel's unique society, where color determines one's caste and status, adds a layer of complexity to the story. Pierce Brown's writing is vivid and engaging, drawing readers into a world that is both familiar and alien. The deluxe edition's additional features, such as the illustrated slipcase and fold-out poster, enhance the reading experience, making it a collectible item for fans of the series.

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.

Fantasy Book Review · 2020-08-15
exciting 4.45

The story starts slowly but builds to a thrilling conclusion. The early chapters set the stage for an exciting narrative.

This reviewer found that Red Rising takes its time to get going, but once it does, it's a wild ride. The initial chapters are spent setting up the world and the characters, which pays off in the latter half of the book. The reviewer appreciates the detailed world-building and the way the story unfolds, making it a compelling read. They also highlight the political intrigue and the action-packed sequences that keep the pages turning. Overall, it's a book that rewards patience with an exciting and engaging story.

Quick quotes

    Red Rising is a story that is slow to start but fast to finish, as Brown spends the early chapters setting the stage for what is to come.

    The world-building is impressive, and the political intrigue is engaging.

    The action sequences are thrilling and keep the reader on the edge of their seat.

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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