If you're a fan of the adrenaline-pumping thrill of Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games series, you're in for a treat. With the anticipation building for Collins' new release in March, now's the perfect time to dive into similar books that capture the essence of Katniss Everdeen's dystopian adventure. Here are seven gripping titles that will satisfy your craving for brutal battles, terrifying tournaments, and immersive dystopian worlds.
Battle Royale by Koushun Takami
### Battle Royale
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A must-read for any Hunger Games enthusiast, Battle Royale predates Collins' series by nearly a decade. In this Japanese novel, the government addresses teenage delinquency by forcing a randomly selected class to fight to the death on an isolated island, all televised for the public's entertainment. This gripping, violent tale is both shocking and thought-provoking, echoing the intensity of The Hunger Games.
The Sunbearer Trials by Aiden Thomas
### The Sunbearer Trials
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For a more recent take on the Hunger Games theme, The Sunbearer Trials offers a thrilling YA adventure. Every ten years, the children of gods compete in the Sunbearer Trials to replenish the sun's energy. Jade, an unlikely participant, finds himself in a life-or-death struggle against more favored competitors. This book's rich worldbuilding and compelling action will remind you of Katniss' journey.
Hide by Kiersten White
National Bestseller### Hide
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Hide offers a chilling twist on the survival game concept, set in an abandoned theme park where young adults compete for a cash prize. The game turns deadly as they uncover a sinister presence lurking within. This haunting narrative combines classic mythology with a stark commentary on real-life issues, delivering a horror-infused experience that resonates with the brutality of The Hunger Games.
The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna
New York Times Bestseller### The Gilded Ones
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Although The Gilded Ones diverges from the traditional survival game plot, it captivates with its vivid world and fierce protagonist, Deka. Discovering her supernatural nature during a brutal ceremony, she joins a legion of female warriors to combat monstrous threats. This fantasy series offers a powerful narrative filled with violence and discovery, perfect for those who loved the world of The Hunger Games.
Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
### The Inheritance Games
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In The Inheritance Games, high schooler Avery Grambs inherits a fortune from a stranger, but with a catch: she must live in a mysterious mansion filled with puzzles and danger. Navigating the complex dynamics with the original heirs, Avery faces intrigue and suspense. If you enjoyed the strategic elements and mysteries of The Hunger Games, this series will keep you hooked.
Legend by Marie Lu
### Legend
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Set in a dystopian United States, Legend follows June and Day as they navigate a society divided by wealth and power. June's quest for vengeance against Day, whom she believes killed her brother, leads to revelations about their government's dark secrets. This tale of rebellion and discovery mirrors the themes of resistance and societal critique found in The Hunger Games.
Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi
### Children of Blood and Bone
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An epic fantasy, Children of Blood and Bone introduces readers to Zélie Adebola, a Diviner in a kingdom where magic has been outlawed. Her journey to restore magic, alongside a hidden princess, is filled with action and intrigue. If you're drawn to The Hunger Games for its strong female leads and immersive worldbuilding, this book is a must-read.
For fans eagerly awaiting the next installment in the Hunger Games saga, these seven books promise to deliver the same intense, thrilling experience that made Collins' series a global phenomenon.
