Books Like...
Ten years after the events of the Red Rising trilogy, 'Iron Gold' revisits old characters like Darrow, now married to Mustang and with a child named Pax, as well as introduces new lead characters like Lyria, Lysander, and Ephraim. The novel explores the impact of war on different individuals and delves into themes of survival, pain, and hope in a bleak but compelling narrative. The story unfolds from four different points of view, offering a wider scope to the plot and showcasing Pierce Brown's ability to craft tension and emotional depth in a world filled with political intrigue and complex characters.
The fourth book in the Red Rising series shifts from the young adult genre to a more mature narrative, focusing on the aftermath of the revolution and the challenges faced by Darrow and other protagonists in navigating a changed world. With a mix of action, politics, and character development, 'Iron Gold' presents a complex and imaginative continuation of the series, blending elements of epic storytelling with emotional moments that resonate with readers.
If you liked Iron Gold, here are the top 45 books to read next:
(We also have 100 recommendations for the series: Red Rising Saga)
- #1
'Firestorm' in the 'Slow Burn' series by Bobby Adair is a gripping tale full of twists, new ideas, and thought-provoking elements. The plot is not your average zombie horror story, as it delves into character development, unexpected scenarios, and the possibility of immortality for the infected. The writing style is engaging, slow-paced yet captivating, making readers want to consume the story in one sitting.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Slow Burn ) - #2
In "Extinction Horizon," readers are taken on a thrilling journey filled with suspense, intense action, and dark, intelligent storytelling. The book introduces a group of soldiers facing a deadly new threat unleashed by an experimental drug during the Vietnam War, leading to the creation of monstrous beings that threaten humanity. As the plot unfolds, the characters, including the well-developed Team Ghost and scientist Dr. Kate Lovato, navigate through a post-apocalyptic world where they must fight to survive against the infected and mutated creatures. The writing style is fast-paced, engaging, and incorporates elements of science fiction and plausible scientific explanations, making the story both terrifying and believable.
The six-man team emerged onto the tarmac at dusk. The shadows they cast reflected men that moved with calculated precision. They passed under the idle blades of Blackhawk helicopters and crossed betwe... - #3
"Zero Day" by Bobby Adair in the series "Slow Burn" follows the protagonist Zed Zane who becomes infected early on in the story, offering a unique twist to the zombie genre. The plot is fast-paced and action-packed, exploring themes of survival, humanity, and the human condition in an apocalyptic setting. Adair's writing style is commended for its well-developed characters, realistic portrayal of a zombie plague, and fresh approach to the genre with a focus on character development and unique plot elements.
There had been exaggerated news reports over the past few weeks about the upcoming flu season’s annual pandemic. The whiners on the talking-head channels were making noise about racial cleansing that ... - #4
'Child of the Daystar' is a dark fantasy novel that follows the journey of Raz, a unique dragon humanoid character, as he navigates a cruel world filled with prejudice, tragedy, and intrigue. The story delves into Raz's early years of horror, his healing as a foster child, and the complexities of being raised by humans while not being one himself. The narrative also intertwines the story of Syrah, a young albino child with a significant impact on Raz's journey. The book explores themes of survival, betrayal, growth, and the search for identity, all set in a well-paced and vividly detailed world.
The book is praised for its enchanting storytelling, realistic character development, and compelling plot filled with twists and turns that keep readers engaged. The writing style is noted for its emotional depth, world-building, and exploration of complex themes such as prejudice, family dynamics, and personal growth. Readers find themselves deeply invested in Raz's story, appreciating the unique perspective of a non-human protagonist and the depth of humanity portrayed throughout the narrative.
“They are beasts who, upon first encounter, have some semblances of the compassion we pride ourselves in as men and women. Do not be led astray. They are savages, barbarians, and if it is easier to ki... - #5
'Dark Intelligence' by Neal Asher is a return to his Polity universe, featuring a complex plot centered around a black AI known as Penny Royal. The novel explores themes of machine intelligence, personal stories intertwined with broader implications, and a diverse array of characters in various exotic and familiar locales. Readers are taken on a journey through brilliant cityscapes, seedy districts, dark asteroids, and the Graveyard - a devastated region between humanity and its former interstellar foe.
The book is praised for its world-building, intricate plot development, and the portrayal of vivid and diverse characters, including criminals, veterans, aliens, and unique artificial intelligences. The story unfolds at a decent pace, keeping readers engaged with surprises along the way, while offering a glimpse into a darker and more brutal universe compared to other sci-fi works.
I woke in crisp white cotton sheets to the sound of skylarks, with the sun beaming through a window somewhere nearby. I gazed up at a lighting panel inset in the pale blue ceiling and smelled comforti... - #6
The Will of the Many by James Islington follows Vis Telimus, an orphaned young man who vows to never let the empire take his Will from him to power their Hierarchy. The story is filled with twists and turns, jaw-dropping moments, and a mix of hope and darkness. Set in a post-Cataclysm world with a Roman-inspired setting, the book delves into moral quandaries, mysteries, and a unique school setup on the isolated island of Solivagus. The protagonist, Vis, is portrayed as determined, sharp, and calculated, with a strong moral compass and a dreamy friendship dynamic with characters like Callidus and Eidhin.
- #7What the Hell Did I Just ReadBook 3 in the series:John Dies at the End
"What the Hell Did I Just Read" by Jason Pargin (David Wong) is the third installment in the 'John Dies at the End' series. The story follows David, Amy, and John as they embark on Lovecraftian adventures in a Cracked style prose, dealing with police, parents, and a mysterious organization while attempting to solve the mystery of missing kids that leads to an apocalyptic scenario. The writing style is described as funny, stupid, profane, and ridiculous, blending humor with horror in a creative and imaginative way, making it a surprisingly good horror story.
The central event in the story is a child abduction that evolves into a chain of abductions, blurring the lines between reality and delusion as the trio tries to uncover the truth behind the missing children. is a mix of humor and horror, with unreliable narration and lightened tone by the characters' jokes amidst calamitous events, set in an undisclosed Midwestern town prone to supernatural shenanigans, exploring Lovecraftian themes with the author's unique mythology and lore.
I woke up on the floor of my junk room, a tiny second bedroom in my apartment that’s piled high with the weird bullshit I collect. Though I guess that wording would imply that I seek this stuff out; I...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series John Dies at the End ) - #8
'We Ride the Storm' by Devin Madson is a fantasy novel set in 'The Reborn Empire' series, following the lives of three distinct characters - Miko, Rah, and Cassandra. The story unfolds through their first-person perspectives, offering a unique and engaging narrative style. The plot delves into political maneuverings, epic battles, and the brewing war in a world inspired by Asian feudal customs and history. The book is praised for its intricate storytelling, vivid world-building, and the balance between the good, the bad, and the ugly aspects of the characters' lives.
I had done nothing but exist. Nothing but own the wrong face and the wrong eyes, the wrong ancestors and the wrong name. Nothing but be Princess Miko Ts’ai. Yet it was enough, and not a day passed in ... - #9
Empress of Mijak follows the journey of Hekat, a slave girl who rises to power in a dark and brutal world dominated by a bloodthirsty god. The plot delves into themes of violence, corruption, and the relentless pursuit of power, with a focus on character development and a unique fantasy world that revolves around a god's will and the sacrifices made in its name.
Despite its two burning lard-lamps the kitchen was dark, its air choked with the stink of rancid goat butter and spoiling goat-meat. Spiders festooned the corners with sickly webs, boarding the husks ... - #10
"Coyote" by Allen M. Steele is a science fiction tale set in a future America under a right-wing dictatorship where a group of rebels steal a prototype starship to embark on a journey to a new planet, Coyote. The story follows the colonists as they awaken on their new home and face the challenges of establishing a colony. The narrative explores themes of freedom, revolution, colonization, and the struggles of the characters against the oppressive government and the harsh environment of their new world. The writing style combines elements of space exploration, political intrigue, and interpersonal relationships, creating a multi-faceted story that delves into the complexities of space colonization and human nature.
The Liberty Bell is much larger than he expected. Nearly fifteen feet tall, weighing over two thousand pounds, it’s suspended by its oak arm between two cement supports, the ceiling lights casting a d...