7 Books Like Red Rising To Read In 2026

Few science fiction novels combine brutal competitions, ruthless political games, unforgettable characters, and shocking twists quite like this series. But what should you read when you finish Darrow's journey and want something equally intense? Fortunately, there are plenty of books that capture the same excitement while exploring new worlds, dangerous societies, and extraordinary struggles for freedom.

Below is a list of 7 books like Red Rising to read in 2026.

1. The Fifth Season by N. K. Jemisin

N. K. Jemisin's The Fifth Season introduces a world repeatedly devastated by catastrophic geological events, where certain individuals possess extraordinary abilities to control seismic energy. Rather than celebrating these powers, society fears and exploits the people who possess them, creating a brutal system of discrimination and control. The story follows characters struggling to survive in a civilization where inequality is deeply embedded in everyday life. Like Red Rising, the novel examines institutional oppression, social hierarchies, and the consequences of treating entire groups as inferior. Its unconventional storytelling, imaginative worldbuilding, and powerful social commentary make it an excellent choice for readers seeking darker speculative fiction.

2. Dune by Frank Herbert

Frank Herbert's Dune transports readers to a distant future where powerful noble families compete for control of Arrakis, a desert planet containing the universe's most valuable resource. The story follows Paul Atreides, whose family becomes trapped in a dangerous political conspiracy that threatens their survival. As Paul discovers his extraordinary potential, he must navigate betrayal, warfare, and competing visions of the future. Readers who enjoy Darrow's calculated moves, complicated alliances, and struggle against powerful enemies will appreciate this influential science fiction epic.

3. Red Sister by Mark Lawrence

Mark Lawrence's Red Sister follows Nona Grey, a young girl sent to a convent where talented women train to become dangerous fighters. Within its walls, students develop combat abilities, form friendships, and compete in an environment where political rivalries can have deadly consequences. Nona must confront her troubled past while learning whom she can trust and how far she is willing to go to protect herself and others. Readers who enjoy intense training sequences, fierce rivalries, determined protagonists, and dark fantasy will find this novel particularly rewarding.

4. Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card

Orson Scott Card's Ender's Game follows Andrew "Ender" Wiggin, a gifted child recruited into a military training program designed to prepare humanity for an alien invasion. At Battle School, Ender faces increasingly difficult simulations, fierce competition, and psychological challenges that test his intelligence and emotional resilience. His exceptional strategic abilities make him valuable to military leaders, but his training raises troubling questions about manipulation and the price of victory. Like Darrow in Red Rising, Ender must learn to outthink stronger opponents while navigating institutions that demand extraordinary sacrifices. Readers who enjoy tactical battles, intense rivalries, and morally complicated leadership will find this story compelling.

5. The Forever War by Joe Haldeman

Joe Haldeman's The Forever War follows William Mandella, a soldier fighting humanity's interstellar war against an alien civilization. Because relativistic space travel causes time to pass differently for travelers and people on Earth, Mandella returns from missions to discover that society has changed dramatically. His experiences gradually separate him from the civilization he is supposedly protecting, raising difficult questions about military authority, loyalty, and the human cost of warfare. Like Red Rising, the novel looks beyond spectacular battles to examine how institutions shape individuals and justify sacrifice. Its thoughtful treatment of conflict and alienation makes it essential reading for fans of serious military science fiction.

6. The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson

Brandon Sanderson's The Way of Kings begins The Stormlight Archive, an epic fantasy series set on Roshar, a world shaped by enormous storms and ancient mysteries. The story follows several characters, including Kaladin, a former soldier struggling with hardship, and Dalinar Kholin, a powerful leader questioning the direction of his society. Their journeys involve military conflicts, political rivalries, personal sacrifices, and discoveries that challenge established beliefs. Like Red Rising, the novel explores leadership, social divisions, and the transformation of individuals confronting seemingly impossible circumstances. Readers who appreciate powerful character development, strategic battles, and expansive worldbuilding will find this an excellent next adventure.

7. Old Man's War by John Scalzi

In Old Man's War, John Scalzi imagines a future in which humanity recruits elderly people into its military and gives them genetically enhanced bodies for interstellar warfare. John Perry joins the Colonial Defense Forces, expecting a new beginning, but quickly discovers that fighting for humanity's expansion involves extraordinary dangers and complicated moral questions. As he encounters alien civilizations and participates in military operations, Perry begins questioning the realities behind the conflict. Like Red Rising, the novel examines the relationship between military institutions, technological advancement, and personal freedom. Its accessible writing, imaginative battles, and philosophical undertones make it ideal for readers seeking entertaining military science fiction.

Conclusion

Finding a book that captures the excitement of Red Rising is not simply about finding another story set in space. The real appeal lies in watching characters confront brutal institutions, navigate dangerous alliances, and discover what they are willing to sacrifice for freedom, loyalty, or power.