A review by reading_rhapsody
Red Rising by Pierce Brown

adventurous dark tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.75


I have to admit, my expectations for "Red Rising" were sky-high. So many people love this series, So, I was a little let down after finishing it. I also read the book while listening to the audio which did give a better experience with it.

The book reminded me a lot of "The Hunger Games," but I must say, the world-building is fantastic. The intricate details of this dystopian universe make you ponder the complexities of societal structures and human nature.

I tried to finish the book at least three times and almost gave up entirely. It was tough for me to get through because I just couldn't connect with Darrow, the main character. I understand why he is the way he is, given his upbringing and experiences, but he just didn't resonate with me. His character is a reflection of the harsh realities and moral dilemmas faced in a world where survival often trumps morality. Plus, having the story told from only his point of view got on my nerves. I would have loved to see perspectives from other characters, as it might have added depth and empathy to the narrative.

Honestly, it was hard to get invested in any character, but Sevro was a standout. He was interesting and kept me engaged whenever he appeared in the story. His unpredictable nature and loyalty make you question the true essence of friendship and trust in such a brutal world.

I'm unsure if I'll continue the series because the first book was hard to stay interested in. However, many people recommend sticking with it because the second book is where the story really takes off. Since I trust their reviews, I might give it a shot. The world-building is what kept me going, and I did enjoy the plot twists along the way. Just a heads-up, the book does delve into themes of violence and oppression, which might be triggering for some readers. But if you're up for a thought-provoking journey through a vividly crafted universe, it might be worth the read.

 for book recs and reviews check out : https://www.readingrhapsody.com