Table of Contents
If you enjoyed Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard, you are likely drawn to dystopian fantasy worlds, powerful heroines, political intrigue, and a dash of romance. Red Queen captivated readers with its story of Mare Barrow, a girl with extraordinary powers navigating a society divided by blood, and its thrilling mix of action, rebellion, and mystery. Here are eight similar books you will love that feature brave protagonists, dangerous power struggles, and richly imagined worlds.
1. Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
Throne of Glass follows Celaena Sardothien, an imprisoned assassin who is given a chance at freedom if she wins a deadly competition to become the king’s champion. Set in a world of ruthless politics, dark magic, and deadly stakes, Celaena must use all her skills to survive as she uncovers shocking secrets about the kingdom. Readers who loved Red Queen for its strong female lead and complex political landscape will find this series thrilling and immersive.
2. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games takes place in Panem, a dystopian world where children are forced to participate in a televised fight to the death. Katniss Everdeen volunteers to save her sister and becomes a symbol of hope for the oppressed. Like Mare, Katniss is a courageous heroine thrown into a brutal game of survival and manipulation. The themes of rebellion, sacrifice, and revolution in The Hunger Games resonate with the political undertones of Red Queen.
3. An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
In a world inspired by ancient Rome, An Ember in the Ashes follows Laia, a slave, and Elias, a soldier, who both desire freedom from a brutal regime. When Laia’s brother is arrested, she risks everything to infiltrate the empire’s military academy. This book explores themes of oppression, loyalty, and rebellion, making it an excellent choice for fans of Red Queen who are intrigued by characters caught in power struggles within an oppressive society.
4. Legend by Marie Lu
Legend is set in a militarized future America and centers on June, a prodigy, and Day, a wanted criminal. When they cross paths, they discover dark secrets about the government. As they uncover the truth, they are forced to question their loyalties and battle against a corrupt regime. Fans of Red Queen will appreciate the high-stakes conflict, fast-paced action, and themes of loyalty and betrayal.
5. Divergent by Veronica Roth
In Divergent, society is divided into factions based on virtues. Sixteen-year-old Tris Prior doesn’t fit neatly into any one faction, which makes her a target in this rigidly controlled world. When she discovers a conspiracy, she’s forced to decide where her loyalties lie and embrace her own power. This series, with its dystopian world, high-stakes choices, and brave protagonist, has a lot in common with Red Queen, especially in terms of exploring themes of identity and courage.
6. Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo
Shadow and Bone transports readers to Ravka, a land divided by darkness and plagued by monsters. Alina Starkov, a seemingly ordinary girl, discovers a unique power that could save her country. Like Mare Barrow, Alina is thrust into a world of intrigue, magical powers, and betrayal as she learns to wield her abilities. With its richly developed world, gripping storyline, and complex characters, Shadow and Bone is perfect for Red Queen fans looking for a blend of magic and political intrigue.
7. The Young Elites by Marie Lu
After surviving a deadly illness, Adelina Amouteru discovers she possesses strange, dangerous powers. She joins the Young Elites, a group of similarly gifted individuals who use their abilities to fight against their oppressors. This dark, gritty series explores themes of power, vengeance, and identity, providing a unique take on the “chosen one” narrative. The Young Elites is ideal for those who enjoyed Red Queen for its morally complex characters and high-stakes adventure.
8. The Selection by Kiera Cass
In The Selection, America Singer is chosen to compete for the heart of Prince Maxon in a reality-TV-style competition. But with her heart already committed to someone else and a rebellion brewing, she’s torn between loyalty and her unexpected feelings for the prince. While The Selection has a lighter tone than Red Queen, it shares themes of class division, romance, and power dynamics that fans of Aveyard’s series may enjoy.