Seven Dystopian Novels Like Hunger Games

Fans of Suzanne Collins' *The Hunger Games* series are eagerly anticipating the release of a new book, reigniting interest in this captivating dystopian saga. If you're looking for similar reads that capture the same brutal brilliance and thrilling suspense, look no further. We've compiled seven exceptional books that offer a similar blend of action, intrigue, and unforgettable characters.

These selections offer diverse elements that resonate with the *Hunger Games* spirit: deadly competitions, dystopian settings, and powerful female leads. Whether you crave a fight-to-the-death narrative, a terrifying tournament, or a captivating dystopian fantasy, this list has something for you.

Battle Royale by Koushun Takami

No discussion of *The Hunger Games* is complete without mentioning this groundbreaking Japanese novel. Predating Collins' series by nearly a decade, *Battle Royale* offers a similarly powerful and shocking narrative. In a dystopian future Japan, teenagers are forced to fight to the death in a televised tournament. Brutal, violent, and haunting, this book will grip you from beginning to end.

The Sunbearer Trials by Aiden Thomas

Among recent YA novels that evoke the *Hunger Games* spirit, *The Sunbearer Trials* stands out. This stunning story pits children of ancient gods against each other in a deadly series of games. Filled with memorable characters, exceptional world-building, and gripping action, this book delivers a similar page-turning experience.

Hide by Kiersten White

Kiersten White's *Hide* reimagines classic mythology while serving as a powerful allegory for gun violence. A group of young adults participates in a deadly game of hide-and-seek in an abandoned theme park for a massive prize. This bleak and brutal tale offers a terrifying twist on a familiar setup.

The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna

While not following the same "dangerous game" plotline, *The Gilded Ones* offers a vibrant fantasy world led by a strong female protagonist. Deka, a young woman who discovers she's unlike others in her village, joins an army of women to fight monsters. This New York Times Bestseller is a must-read for fans of strong female characters and richly-imagined worlds.

Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Avery Grambs' life changes dramatically when she inherits a fortune from a stranger. She must navigate a sprawling mansion filled with puzzles, mysteries, and dangerous riddles, along with the enigmatic grandsons who also stand to inherit. This blend of mystery, intrigue, and adventure will resonate with fans of *The Hunger Games*' puzzle elements.

Legend by Marie Lu

Set in a dystopian United States, *Legend* shares similarities with *The Hunger Games* in its divided districts and war-torn setting. June, a young woman seeking revenge, engages in a cat-and-mouse game with Day, a lower-class criminal. This thrilling narrative explores themes of social inequality and hidden truths.

Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi

This epic fantasy, a bestseller with a highly anticipated movie adaptation, follows Zélie, a Diviner in a world where magic has vanished. Her unexpected friendship with a princess sets her on a path to restore magic and challenge a ruthless king. This book offers vibrant world-building and strong female characters.