13 Thrilling Books like Divergent for YA Dystopian Fans

Calling all young adult dystopian enthusiasts! If you’ve been craving the adrenaline-pumping action, fierce heroines, and gripping plot twists found in Veronica Roth’s ‘Divergent,’ you’re in for a literary adventure like no other. In this carefully curated list, we present 13 thrilling books like Divergent that will satisfy your hunger for heart-pounding adventures and thought-provoking dystopian worlds.

Books Like Divergent

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Tris Prior’s journey or simply seeking the next adrenaline rush, these recommendations promise to immerse you in captivating narratives, intricate societies, and unforgettable characters. Join us as we dive into these page-turners like Divergent, each offering its own unique take on the dystopian genre, and get ready to embark on an exhilarating reading journey.

The Hunger Games Series (2008)

by Suzanne Collins

This is a series of 4 novels, all set in a dystopian world in the nation of Panem, where a cruel and oppressive government known as the Capitol holds absolute power. The story follows sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen, a brave and resourceful young woman who becomes a symbol of hope and defiance.

The Capitol forces each of the twelve districts to send one boy and one girl, known as tributes, to participate in the annual Hunger Games. These Games are a televised fight to the death, designed to entertain and control the populace. When Katniss volunteers to take her younger sister’s place, she enters a world of treacherous challenges and heart-wrenching choices. Katniss, in her struggle to survive, her indomitable spirit, and her growing determination to challenge the Capitol’s oppressive regime, will remind you of Tris from Divergent.

The Maze Runner series (2009)

by James Dashner

Another dystopian series, The Maze Runner follows the story of Thomas, the protagonist, a young boy who wakes up in a dark elevator with no memories of his past, only to find himself thrust into a perilous world known as the Glade.

The Glade is a secluded area populated by a group of teenage boys, each with their own role and purpose. Surrounding the Glade is an imposing maze, filled with monstrous creatures known as Grievers. Every day, a select group of Runners venture into the ever-changing maze, trying to find an escape route and discover the truth about their existence.

As Thomas tries to navigate this enigmatic world, he begins to uncover fragments of his past and develops deep friendships with the other Gladers. Together, they strive to unravel the mysteries of the maze and find a way to survive.

“Divergent” and “The Maze Runner” have quite a bit in common plot-wise. They’re both set in these post-apocalyptic, messed-up worlds. In both, the main characters start off with amnesia or some serious memory issues, and they’re trying to figure out who they are. Survival is a big theme too – whether it’s facing tough tests and training in “Divergent” or navigating a super dangerous maze in “The Maze Runner”. Themes of rebellion against oppressive systems and government experiments also plays an role in both the books.

Uglies Series (2005)

by Scott Westerfield

In this futuristic society, everyone undergoes a drastic transformation on their sixteenth birthday. They are surgically altered to become “Pretties,” a group of individuals blessed with flawless features and a life of luxury. Tally Youngblood, the courageous and rebellious protagonist, anxiously awaits her own transformation, dreaming of the day when she can join her best friend, Peris, in the beautiful realm of the Pretties.

However, when Tally befriends a group of “Uglies” who have chosen to reject the operation, her perspective on beauty and conformity begins to shift. As she learns more about the dark secrets lurking behind the city’s pristine facade, Tally becomes entangled in a thrilling adventure that challenges her understanding of the world and forces her to question the true meaning of beauty.

Originally intended to be a trilogy, Westerfield ended up publishing a fourth novel in the series in 2007.

What ties both the novels together is the theme of government manipulation and control. In “Divergent,” the faction system serves as a means of control and categorization, while in the “Uglies” series, the government manipulates people’s perception of beauty to maintain its hold on power. Both series delve into the repercussions of living within such controlled societies in their dystopian settings, making them compelling reads for fans of the genre.

The 5^th Wave series (2013)

by Rick Yancey

Another trilogy in the list, ‘The 5^th Wave’ is an epic and captivating dystopian saga that takes readers on a thrilling journey through an Earth devastated by an alien invasion. In this heart-pounding series, humanity faces extinction as they struggle to survive against the enigmatic and ruthless alien beings known as the Others.

The first installment, ‘The 5th Wave,’ introduces us to Cassie Sullivan, a courageous and resilient teenager who must navigate a world plunged into chaos. The Others’ invasion is marked by a series of deadly waves, each more devastating than the last. With her family torn apart and facing an uncertain future, Cassie embarks on a perilous quest to rescue her younger brother from the clutches of the Others, all while trying to distinguish friend from foe in a world where trust is a scarce commodity.

As the series progresses, we are introduced to a diverse cast of characters, each with their own harrowing stories and motivations. From the enigmatic Evan Walker, who may hold the key to Cassie’s survival, to the skilled and enigmatic Ringer, who possesses a mysterious secret, the characters’ paths intertwine as they grapple with their own humanity while fighting against an insurmountable enemy.

Matched Trilogy (2010)

by Ally Condie

The story follows Cassia Reyes, a young woman who eagerly awaits her Matching ceremony, where she will be assigned her ideal life partner. However, when a rare glitch occurs during her ceremony, Cassia’s screen briefly displays the face of another boy, Ky Markham. This small but significant disruption sparks curiosity and rebellion within Cassia, causing her to question the limitations imposed on her life.

As Cassia delves deeper into her forbidden feelings for Ky, she begins to unearth the dark secrets that underlie her seemingly perfect society. With each revelation, she becomes more determined to challenge the suffocating constraints and reclaim her right to choose her own destiny.

In both the “Divergent” series by Veronica Roth and the “Matched” trilogy by Ally Condie, we follow the coming-of-age journeys of the main characters, Tris and Cassia. They start out accepting the rules of their dystopian societies but gradually become more independent, self-aware, and willing to challenge the status quo. Along the way, they encounter mysterious authority figures and organizations – like the faction leaders in “Divergent” and the Officials in the “Matched” trilogy. These enigmatic figures hold secrets and manipulate events, which prompts our protagonists to question the controlled worlds they live in. These shared elements make for compelling stories of self-discovery and rebellion in dystopian settings.

The Selection series (2012)

by Kiera Cass

The story follows America Singer, a young and spirited girl who finds herself thrust into a competition called “The Selection.”

In this competition, thirty-five young women from different social classes are chosen to compete for the heart of Prince Maxon and the opportunity to become the princess of the country of Illea. America, initially reluctant to participate, is persuaded by her family’s aspirations for a better life.

As America enters the palace, she is caught in a whirlwind of opulence, glamour, and unexpected friendships. However, she soon realizes that behind the glittering facade lies political intrigue, power struggles, and the complexities of navigating the heart. As the competition progresses, America finds herself torn between her initial love interest, Aspen, a boy from her hometown, and the charming Prince Maxon.

You’ll find yourself reaching for the other 4 books in the series as the first one leaves you yearning for more.

The Red Rising series (2014)

by Pierce Brown

The Red Rising saga takes you on an unforgettable journey through a futuristic society marked by brutal caste systems, political intrigue, and the indomitable spirit of rebellion.

Set in a distant future, where humanity has colonized multiple planets, the series follows the story of Darrow, a lowborn Red miner on Mars. Darrow’s world is shattered when he discovers that his people have been living in slavery, toiling beneath the surface while believing they are paving the way for a better future. Fueled by grief and a burning desire for justice, Darrow undergoes a remarkable transformation. He infiltrates the Gold elite, the ruling class, by becoming one of them physically, infiltrating their society, and planning a revolution from within.

Throughout the series, readers witness Darrow’s harrowing journey as he battles not only the physical challenges of warfare and survival but also the internal struggles of loyalty, sacrifice, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. As Darrow rises through the ranks, he uncovers shocking secrets, unearths the corruption that plagues society, and forms alliances with unlikely companions who share his vision of a fairer world.

Delirium trilogy (2011)

by Lauren Oliver

Set in a future society where love has been classified as a delirium, the series delves into the lives of its characters as they navigate a world devoid of the most powerful emotion.

In ‘Delirium,’ we are introduced to Lena, a young girl eagerly awaiting her upcoming procedure, the cure for deliria. But when Lena unexpectedly falls in love, her entire perspective begins to shift. With her newfound forbidden romance, she starts questioning the rigid rules and limitations imposed by her society. The first book sets the stage for a thrilling exploration of love, sacrifice, and rebellion.

In ‘Pandemonium,’ the second instalment, Lena finds herself thrust into the dangerous world beyond the confines of her former life. As she joins the resistance and fights against the oppressive regime, she must confront the harsh realities of the outside world and the price of her choices. The story alternates between Lena’s past and present, weaving a narrative that is both captivating and emotionally charged.

Finally, in ‘Requiem,’ the trilogy reaches its powerful conclusion. Lena must make heart-wrenching decisions that will shape the fate of her world.

Through Lena’s journey, readers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster, experiencing the full range of love’s transformative power and its capacity to ignite hope in the darkest of times. The Delirium trilogy is a stunning tale of self-discovery, resilience, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

Legend Trilogy (2011)

by Marie Lu

‘Legend’ is an epic dystopian book series that takes readers on a captivating journey through a futuristic world divided by social and political unrest. Set in the Republic of America, the story follows the intertwined lives of two extraordinary young protagonists, June and Day, whose destinies are destined to collide in ways they never could have imagined.

In ‘Legend,’ the first book of the trilogy, we are introduced to June, a prodigious military prodigy, and Day, a wanted criminal with a heart of gold. June is determined to bring Day to justice for crimes he allegedly committed, but as she delves deeper into the truth, she discovers a web of deceit and corruption that challenges everything she thought she knew. As their paths cross and their lives become entangled, they find themselves questioning their loyalties and fighting against a system that oppresses the innocent.

As the series progresses in ‘Prodigy’ and ‘Champion,’ the stakes rise higher than ever before. June and Day become symbols of hope for the oppressed citizens of the Republic, leading a rebellion against the oppressive government. They face heart-wrenching sacrifices, engage in daring acts of bravery, and confront their own internal demons as they navigate a world teetering on the brink of chaos.

The Darkest Minds Series (2012)

by Alexandra Bracken

The series shows a dystopian world where children with extraordinary abilities are seen as a threat to society. Set in a future United States, a mysterious disease called IAAN has wiped out most of the nation’s children and bestowed incredible powers upon the survivors.

The story follows Ruby Daly, a sixteen-year-old girl who manages to escape from a government “rehabilitation camp” where children with powers are imprisoned. In this dangerous new reality, Ruby discovers that her abilities go beyond what she initially thought. Alongside a group of fellow outcasts, including the charming Liam, the courageous Chubs, and the enigmatic Zu, Ruby embarks on a treacherous journey to find a safe haven and uncover the truth about the government’s sinister agenda.

A central theme in both series is the presence of young protagonists with unique abilities that set them apart from others. In “Divergent,” Tris is a Divergent, making her a target of both fascination and danger. In “The Darkest Minds” series, Ruby Daly and her friends are known as Psi-children, possessing varying supernatural abilities such as telekinesis and mind control. Their abilities also make them valuable but also place them in grave peril.

Enclave (2011)

by Ann Aguirre

‘Enclave’ is a captivating dystopian novel that will take you on a harrowing journey through a post-apocalyptic world. Set in a future where society has crumbled and cities have become wastelands, the story follows the life of Deuce, a brave and resilient young girl living in the underground tunnels known as the Enclave.

In this dangerous and unforgiving world, Deuce is trained as a Huntress, tasked with protecting her people from the terrifying Freaks that roam the surface. But as Deuce embarks on her first mission, she discovers unsettling truths about her society and the lies that have been perpetuated to maintain control.

Driven by her determination to seek the truth and forge her own destiny, Deuce forms an unlikely alliance with Fade, a mysterious and enigmatic outsider who challenges her perceptions of the world. Together, they navigate treacherous landscapes, face formidable enemies, and confront the darkest secrets hidden within the Enclave.

Identity is a recurring theme in both series. Characters grapple with questions about their place in their societies and must adapt to new realities. Tris must reconcile her Divergent identity with her faction’s expectations, while Deuce must question the enclave’s traditions and adapt to the surface world’s challenges.

Article 5 (2012)

by Kristen Simmons

In a dystopian future not unlike the world of the Divergent series, “Article 5” by Kristen Simmons takes readers on a thrilling journey through a society governed by strict rules and a ruthless government.

The story is set in a world where the United States has become a fractured and authoritarian state. The government enforces a set of moral laws known as the Moral Statutes, and anyone who violates these laws is deemed a threat to society and subjected to brutal punishments.

The protagonist, Ember Miller’s mother was arrested when Ember was just a child for violating Article 5, leaving Ember to fend for herself. Ember has managed to keep her own existence hidden from the authorities until one fateful day when her home is raided, and she is arrested.

Ember is taken to a government reformatory where she is separated from her childhood love and first crush, Chase Jennings, who has become a soldier in the government’s ruthless enforcers. Determined to reunite with Chase and escape the oppressive regime, Ember embarks on a dangerous journey through a war-torn America, encountering various obstacles and threats along the way.

As Ember and Chase navigate this treacherous world, they must grapple with their past, confront their feelings for each other, and find a way to fight back against the oppressive government that seeks to control their lives. “Article 5” is a heart-pounding tale of love, resilience, and rebellion in a society where individuality is a crime.

The Testing Trilogy (2013)

by Joelle Charbonneau

In a post-apocalyptic future where the world has been ravaged by war and environmental disasters, Joelle Charbonneau’s “The Testing” trilogy introduces readers to Cia Vale, a young and intelligent girl from a small, isolated village. Cia’s dream is to follow in her father’s footsteps and become one of the brightest minds in the United Commonwealth, the governing body that emerged after the world’s collapse.

The United Commonwealth selects the most promising young candidates from each colony for a highly competitive and secretive process known as “The Testing.” Cia is one of the few candidates chosen to participate, and she leaves her family and friends behind to journey to the capital, where The Testing takes place.

Once there, Cia quickly realizes that The Testing is not just about academic excellence but also about survival. As she navigates a series of deadly trials, she must rely on her intelligence, resourcefulness, and the alliances she forms with her fellow candidates to pass each test. Along the way, she discovers dark secrets about the true nature of The Testing and the United Commonwealth.

As Cia progresses through the trials, she must grapple with questions of trust, morality, and the cost of ambition. She is determined to uncover the truth about The Testing and its consequences, even as the stakes become increasingly dangerous.

“The Testing” trilogy is a thrilling and suspenseful series that explores themes of competition, government control, and the ethical dilemmas faced by its characters.

Conclusion to Books Like Divergent

And that concludes the list for books like Divergent!

For fans of dystopian fiction books like Divergent, these books are a must-read, offering a thrilling and thought-provoking experience from beginning to end. Most of these books are part of a series, just like ‘Divergent.’

Happy reading, dear readers!

However, if you want even more books like Divergent you should consider-

1. Uglies by Scott Westerfeld
2. 1984  by George Orwell
3. An Ocean of Minutes by Thea Lim
4. Survival trilogy by Morgan Rice
5. Westerfeld’s Leviathan Series by Scott Westerfeld
6. Battle Royale by Koushun Takami
7. Unwind by Neil Shusterman
8. The Chaos Walking Trilogy
9. His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman
10. Across the Universe and its sequel A Million Suns by Beth Revis
11. Birthmarked (& sequel Prized) by Caragh O’Brien
12. Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card
13. The Giver by Lois Lowry
14. Shades of Grey by Jasper Fforde
15. Skyward by Brandon Sanderson
16. Legend by Lu
17. Flawed and Perfect by Cecelia Ahern