Now this might not classified as fantasy and more science fiction. You got me there. But you can't miss out on this trilogy. (There are more books. I haven't gotten there yet.)
But I hate that I'll find a sci-fi book and I can't just put on my blog! I can't be that person! Don't make me. So here's my take on the (sci-fi) trilogy I devoured in record time.
Red Rising
I discovered Red Rising during COVID and I devoured these books. I can't recommend them enough. Here's my summary nRed Rising is the first book in a thrilling science fiction saga by Pierce Brown. Set in a dystopian future, the story follows the life of a young man named Darrow, who lives in a society that is strictly divided into castes based on colors. Darrow is a Red, the lowest caste, forced to work in the mines deep beneath the surface of Mars to terraform the planet for the ruling Golds.
The story begins with Darrow believing that his life is fulfilling, even if he knows that he and his fellow Reds are seen as expendable by the Golds. Darrow's life takes a devastating turn when his wife, Eo, is executed for singing a forbidden song of rebellion. Grief-stricken, Darrow is approached by a group of rebels who reveal to him the truth about the society he lives in and urge him to join their cause to overthrow the Golds.
Darrow undergoes a risky and painful procedure to transform his body and mind to become a Gold, infiltrating their society from within. He is then enrolled in the Institute, a brutal training school where young Golds learn the art of war and politics. Darrow must navigate the dangerous social and political landscape of the Golds, where alliances and enemies are made quickly and treachery is always a step away.
Golden Son
Golden Son is the second book in Pierce Brown's Red Rising series and follows the story of Darrow, a former Red who has infiltrated the Gold society to bring about change and overthrow the oppressive system. In this book, Darrow continues to navigate the complex political landscape of the Golds, while facing new challenges and betrayals.
The book opens with Darrow leading a fleet of ships in a massive battle against the Society, the governing body of the Golds. Darrow's victory is short-lived, however, as his own allies turn against him and he is captured by the ruthless Sovereign, the leader of the Society. Darrow is then forced to participate in the annual game known as the Iron Rain, where various Golds compete for supremacy and political power.
Through his participation in the Iron Rain, Darrow faces new challenges and meets new characters, including some who become his allies and others who become his enemies. He continues to grapple with his own identity and purpose, as he begins to question the motivations and loyalties of those around him.
Morning Star
Morning Son is the final installment in the Red Rising series by Pierce Brown. It follows the story of Darrow, a Red, who rises up against the oppressive Gold ruling class and becomes a leader of the revolution. Throughout the series, we see Darrow's transformation and growth as he navigates politics, war, and personal relationships.
The book picks up where the previous installment, Dark Age, left off. Darrow and his allies are in a precarious position, facing off against a formidable enemy with limited resources. The stakes are high, and the tension is palpable. The war has taken its toll on all involved, and the characters are forced to confront the consequences of their actions.
One of the strengths of the Red Rising series is the complex characters and relationships. Morning Son is no exception, and we see the evolution of these relationships in this book. Darrow's relationships with his wife, Mustang, and his friends, Sevro and Victra, are particularly significant. The relationships are tested, and the characters are forced to confront their own weaknesses and vulnerabilities.
I listened to these on audible as well as paperback book. Darrow's journey is amazing and before you know it, you'll have that book in the DONE pile.