My theory for why the series got so dark: at first Pierce Brown was a nice fellow wanting to right an epic sci fi story but one where you also loose some people you love cuz otherwise it'd be kinda lame. Then slowly he realized the tears of his readers are really delicious so he made the books darker and darker and now wants to dethrone and usurpe our Dark Lord Joe Abercrombie
my sister had been trying to get me to check out this series, she even purchase the first trilogy for me. i didnt dive in until i had seen your videos on them a couple years ago (which ruffled her feathers; “why dont you trust me, you only trust Mike”) and had a great time! waiting until a release date to start the second trilogy.. thanks for another great recommendation!
@@mikesbookreviews same thing happened with Greatcoats and Farseer too. you encouraged me to read all her favorites, she can’t be upset about that. thanks again!
Same here! Thanks mike. Read these because of you in 2020 and it’s sooo good. The action, the characters, the plot, the politics, betrayals, it’s a really intense series. Sequel trilogy is darker as mentioned, but if you’re like me who likes dark serious moments/ sh** hitting the fan you’ll be ok.
He's also got Paradice Lost in there, lol. I was listening to a speech by a bad guy, and it was a a legitimate rendition of Satan's address to the fallen angels in Paradice lost. I thought that was so cool how he leaves little easter eggs like that
One of the most epic book series I've ever read. Gripping & intense, while breaking through barriers of social classes that seem to reflect the direction of life today. Must be noted, Darrow was nothing without his friends & the people in his life who helped him, through those friendships he showed his own strength & determination. I love how many characters Pierce Brown brings in to the story & how many different story lines are going on. He greatly expanded the magnitude of the story as it went along. Though, I hate that Ragnor had such a short appearance, but Pierce made up for it with Cassius. No joke, I had tears of joy in Dark Age.
Some authortubers I follow described Pierce Brown as the master of twists, and now this video - I'll have to bump these books higher on the to-read list.
Due to your recommendation almost 2 years back, I picked up the Red Rising novel and loved it. Mainly for the characters. The story was good but the characters were special. Needless to say I’ve read them all at least twice and eagerly awaiting the final 6th book
After reading all 5 books I found the loss of characters hit harder than ASOIAF, mainly because I was way more attached to most of them. As dark as this series goes I wonder at what kind of ending he will give us...I think Bitter Sweet might be optimistic but in war nobody wins.
I’ve read all 5 books but I took a long break after reading the first trilogy and then books 4 and 5. The series is so intense, action packed and brutal that I needed a break. That worked well for me though as I really enjoyed Iron Gold and Dark Age.
This is one of my favorite series. The epicness, the scope, the fight scenes, the friendships are all just incredible. I’m right there with you about book 1, I was pretty meh on it. But I started book 2 right after, and my god. The quality of writing, plot, and action just shoot up ten fold. This series will always have a special place in my heart.
I remember reading Red Rising back when the hype around it was it's biggest. And I found it weird, because to me it read as an Adult Hunger Games and I couldn't get past that aspect... I'm thinking now that it's been a few year that I may check it out from my library again and give it another go. I did enjoy Pierce Brown's writing and storytelling, so it may be worth it to push through and try to finish up the first trilogy.
My son recommended these to me and I finally started them about 10 days ago. I found myself up until 2am several nights as I couldn’t put them down. I read quite a lot (mainly sci-fi and fantasy) and I found the characters very endearing. I also found some very beautiful prose in book three. Loved them.
Started this series thanks to your videos and read all 5 in about 3 weeks. Absolutely addicted. Can't wait to read book 6 but I'm also so afraid to see how this story ends.
I'm starting the Red rising series today. Decided to "buckle down" and read it before 1/3rd of your video was through. This is my first video from you as well. Loved the content and the delivery of your review. You've gained a follower and fan in me. And, dare i say, given Mr Brown a fan too.
I picked up a hardcover of Iron Gold for $2 at a charity book sale a few weeks ago. The series was always on my TBR but I think its gonna move up that list quickly now :)
I am now going to try to push through on the first one. I enjoyed it but stopped to start another book and haven't picked it up in awhile. I just bought the rest of the series last month to try and pick back up. Thank you for this. It made my morning. Been watching at work. Trust me you are not with the S word we shall not write out loud. But you show you on a lot thought to give you a try and love your content. PLEASE make videos, as much as you want or as less as you want. bust just create the content.
We read Red Rising in my book circle, most readers there (non-fantasy/sci-fi) thought it was a bit too violent. But overall quite positive feeling about it. I loved it however and continued with the triolgy. I'll get into the second one during 2022 hopefully
Loved you take on the series, you have sold me to try it again! I have had the first book on my shelf for years after co-workers raved about it and the timing wasn't right - only recently began reading fantasy and sci fi!!
It's insane how my eye is always drawn straight to your Harry Potter books. J.K. Rowling is the Author that started my love of reading. I grew up along-side Harry, Ron, and Hermione.
I enjoyed the original Red Rising trilogy. I thought they were all pretty good with Golden Son being my slight favourite. I felt the characters and the story were the strongest aspects of the series. I haven't started the second trilogy yet. I'm not sure whether to read them now or wait until Book 6 is announced so they stay fresh in my mind for the finale.
@@mikesbookreviews Thanks for the input! I have a lot of other series to get to, so I think I’ll read those first then get hyped for Red Rising again once Book 6 is announced.
This series is high on my radar. This summer/fall is looking a lot more open, so I may be able to finally go to this. I have been looking forward to it!
I read Red Rising a few years ago. I really enjoyed it, but life got in the way and I did not continue. I hope to re-read it and continue on, since I have already purchased the second and third books. However, if I had not already read it, this video certainly would have convinced me. Thanks for sharing!
I've only read the first book so far, and like you, I thought it was okay. I do plan to read the rest of it. After watching this it's pushing me to read it sooner rather than later though. Side note: One of my internet friends actually got into the series recently because he'd seen me talking about having read the first book. And also the board game that just came out based on this world. He too thought it was okay, I told him though based on what I've heard from you and others who have read the series that it gets better and darker. Anyway, great video!
Just finished sharp ends by Abercrombie a few hours ago, tomorrow I plan to start Red Rising and it’s all thanks to you Mike and your “ why you should read” video.Hell you even made my wife want to read it as well,you are already 1 for 1 with your recommendation of first law(read it all except age of madness trilogy) let’s see if you were right about Red Rising as well!
The Red Rising series is one of my all-time favorites. I've read the first three books three times. Sevro is probably in my top-five favorite characters from any genre. I'd love to see a TV adaptation by HBO or someone with a lot of money. However, books four and five are probably too dark. There are some scenes that I think are unfilmable.
I read Red Rising back when it came out and enjoyed it quite a bit. I think I’ll reread it and see if I want to continue. Thanks for the series review.
I got Red Rising sitting right on the shelf above my desk, just waiting for me to dive in. I just don't know when yet, but this video amped up my excitement
I loved this trilogy quite a lot. The end fizzled out a little bit for me, but the twists and turns really get you. The world is also very interesting even though there wasn't a lot expansion of the world building beyond Mars and a few auxiliary places. Overall, the whole trilogy is very solid with lots of interesting ideas and amazing battles.
@@mikesbookreviews Good to know. I'm just finishing Jade Legacy (Book 3 of Greenbone Saga) and John Gwynne's Valour and will be moving on to Iron Gold. I'm loving John Gwynne's books, by the way. I started reading them on your recommendation and they're really good. Lots of characters that are easy to love.
I wached this video when you put it out in Feb and I had already added the first book to my wish list. Today I finished the first book and I'm so excited to go on with the second one! I must say, this guy made me cry a few times just in this first one so I'm buckling up for what's to come XD I love his prose, it's not super flowery and it's easy to go through. I will definitely start the second book soon. Thank you so much for recommending this series!
Trying my best to avoid spoilers, but I just finished Morningstar on audiobook. Near the end I lost my shit and hated a character that I was starting to like. Then just before the very end there's a moment in the bunker where I stopped the audio and just said, "wow...holy sh*t" because of how savage it was and other characters felt the shock of the savagery. Couldn't agree more about how awesome razors are. I love this first trilogy and cannot wait to start Iron Gold. Thanks for bringing this series out into to the spotlight, at least for me. It is slightly concerning if the 2nd trilogy is getting darker to the level you describe, but I can't stop now.
I'm through Golden Son and have Morning Star on the TBR for April. I agree with nearly all of your assessments on the series so far. Picked up the series because of you and definitely recommend it to anyone that loves grimdark fantasy but are interested in seeing what sci-fi is about. Thanks, Mike!
Thanks Mike, the review is beautifully done and is worthy of the series. A path of no return… After finishing the first trilogy I heard about the darkness that awaits in the next. But I also knew there is no turning back. Took me a year to build up the courage; today, a new journey of heartaches begin. Here we go, to the howlers…
Great series, I read the first 3 after your last video on this topic. Well worth it. I have the next two ready to go, was waiting until we get close to the release of the last volume before I finish.
I decided to read this series based on your "why you should read it" video. Thanks for the recommendation, because I really like this series alot. I even liked book 1. If I had to choose something to put in the bad category, I felt like the original three books was a very solid trilogy where everything was wrapped up nicely for me. I didn't need to series to go on. But there was no way I could ignore books 5 and 6. In Iron Gold, I did not like that we moved to a four person POV story. I liked it all coming from Darrow. Regardless, the only characters I did not connect with in Iron Gold was Ephraim. Still, a very solid book. In Dark Age, I felt it was a bit long, but there was some very good story told there, especially Victra. Man, did she shine. Her parts were fantastic to read. Dark Age made my top 10 last year. That being said, I can't wait to read book 6.
Something I thought was cool about these books is how razors were talked about for a long time but the specifics about them weren't revealed until much later (I think the second book during the duel?).
I think I've read the first trilogy in about three weeks time, absolutely devoured it. 4 and 5 I definitely needed a couple breaks. I was just so emotionally invested, there were points in the story where it got so tense I actually had to lay the book aside and clear my head. It's so action packed, with the single POV you're slowly preparing for big moments it feels like but with the multiple POV you can never catch a break haha, theres always something going on, lots of crazy stuff. I definitely prefer the second series (cant really call it a trilogy anymore since he announced TWO more books, yay). I thought a certain part of book 2 was the worst Pierce Brown could ever make me feel but my god Dark Age is something else man. Can't wait til May!
These were my favorite books up until Dark Age. The psychotic cruelty and death of that one almost broke me. I’m not as big a fan of grim dark as you are and this went to a much too dark place for me. I’ll probably read the last book when it comes out. If I can heal my soul by then.
Started reading the first book yesterday because of you. So far I see the YA comparison (but more violent yes😂) so far pretty decent. Will save my judgement after book 2 because I know people say book 1 is the "bad" one.
The Red Rising board game is awesome when playing with other fans and the wife and I love it. I got her in the books and she has read them more than me now. Top sci-fi for us and why here now and reading book 1 again at least after playing the board game. The game is based on the first book.
I enjoyed The Hunger Games but always felt it was lacking a little something. Red Rising was such a breath of fresh air I always looked at it like it was what I wanted out of The Hunger Games and then some. I was expecting similar out of the sequel but you're right, Brown evolved his characters and likely himself so much. I've enjoyed the trilogy immensely. 4 and 5 were tougher for me to get through. So many point of views. That's just me. I understand others dig it. I'm still looking forward to Lightbringer and since this video was made a 7th installment, Red God has been announced. While the later entries have been harder for me the high points are well worth the grind. I can't wait to see how this all turns out. I have my predictions. I hope I'm wrong and I'm sure I will be because this ride has been extremely unpredictable.
100% Agree with the whole thing, there were some parts where it was frustrating he didn't reveal some of the stuff beforehand, but I always saw it as a device to keep the interest and action going. The first one was definitely slower paced and was alot like the hunger games, but I'm neutral on it. The strategy in the whole book series was phenomenal and the second and third were so fast paced that I couldn't put them down. I finished the first book in like a week but read the second and the third in two days flat. I'm waiting on the third one in the second trilogy series to come out to start back up again, if they're as fast paced as the last two, I'm not going to want to wait hahaha. I'd honestly love a prequel trilogy if he did that as well!!! Last thing I will say is that it's definitely not a prose style book series, but it's better prose than Hemingway's jarring style that was often slow paced when I read for whom the bell tolls, literally could not read it, but also not John Steinbeck where he spent wayyy too long describing stuff.
Seeing you posting about this video on Instagram convinced me to pick the series back up, polished off red rising in 2 days, currently desperate to pick up golden sun. Hopefully the character death isn’t too much for me
I been planning to read the series since you're first review. I'm planning to start reading the first one after I finish the 8 Malazan book (already 60% done)
I'm halfway through Golden Son and really liking. But I hope it doesn't veer into shockjock, edgelord territory like Sons of Anarchy or some crap like that. Death for the sake of death, backstabbing for the sake of a "twist," etc.
I own all the books, only read the first. I was hard to get through, even though I liked the story. The writing style was difficult to read and it's just made me weary to continue. After I finish Shadow Of The Gods I think I'll start book 2.
My theory for why the series got so dark: at first Pierce Brown was a nice fellow wanting to right an epic sci fi story but one where you also loose some people you love cuz otherwise it'd be kinda lame. Then slowly he realized the tears of his readers are really delicious so he made the books darker and darker and now wants to dethrone and usurpe our Dark Lord Joe Abercrombie
This is a theory I subscribe to.
Darrow’s speeches alone are worth reading these books.
Hail Reaper.
Nobody summarizes things without spoiling them better than you do. I think this has to go on my tbr, even though it is already miles long.
Awesome to hear! Hope you dig it.
my sister had been trying to get me to check out this series, she even purchase the first trilogy for me. i didnt dive in until i had seen your videos on them a couple years ago (which ruffled her feathers; “why dont you trust me, you only trust Mike”) and had a great time! waiting until a release date to start the second trilogy.. thanks for another great recommendation!
Ha ha sorry to start a family drama
@@mikesbookreviews same thing happened with Greatcoats and Farseer too. you encouraged me to read all her favorites, she can’t be upset about that. thanks again!
This is funny. Mike sells it, indirectly, and maybe your sister just gifting them to you wasn't convincing enough.
I 100% started this series because of Mike’s recommendation and it has become one of my favourite book series of all time .. thank you sir!
Same here! Thanks mike. Read these because of you in 2020 and it’s sooo good. The action, the characters, the plot, the politics, betrayals, it’s a really intense series. Sequel trilogy is darker as mentioned, but if you’re like me who likes dark serious moments/ sh** hitting the fan you’ll be ok.
So glad to hear it!
This video rocks! The Iron Rain scene in bk 2 just completely blew my mind-I don’t think I’ve ever been as gripped to the page as I was during that.
Iron Rain scenes are amazing.
He's also got Paradice Lost in there, lol. I was listening to a speech by a bad guy, and it was a a legitimate rendition of Satan's address to the fallen angels in Paradice lost. I thought that was so cool how he leaves little easter eggs like that
Great observation.
An excellent sales job, Mike! I appreciate your honesty here and the useful information. Sounds like a series I’ll be picking up someday!
I think you'd be really into how much ancient Rome, Greece, and Prussian ideals he mixes in.
Read it! Don’t be a pixie!
One of the most epic book series I've ever read. Gripping & intense, while breaking through barriers of social classes that seem to reflect the direction of life today. Must be noted, Darrow was nothing without his friends & the people in his life who helped him, through those friendships he showed his own strength & determination. I love how many characters Pierce Brown brings in to the story & how many different story lines are going on. He greatly expanded the magnitude of the story as it went along. Though, I hate that Ragnor had such a short appearance, but Pierce made up for it with Cassius. No joke, I had tears of joy in Dark Age.
Mike, I'm glad you convinced me to give the Red Rising saga another try three years ago. It's one of the best series I've read in the last 25 years.
So happy to hear that!
Some authortubers I follow described Pierce Brown as the master of twists, and now this video - I'll have to bump these books higher on the to-read list.
You won't regret it!
Love em! Started Iron Gold this week. Definitely one of the most quotable series ive read in the last handful of years
Sevro is a quote machine.
Due to your recommendation almost 2 years back, I picked up the Red Rising novel and loved it. Mainly for the characters. The story was good but the characters were special. Needless to say I’ve read them all at least twice and eagerly awaiting the final 6th book
His character relationships are just prime.
I always love the Red Rising content Mike. You made me discover my new favourite sci-fi series!
Happy to help!
After reading all 5 books I found the loss of characters hit harder than ASOIAF, mainly because I was way more attached to most of them. As dark as this series goes I wonder at what kind of ending he will give us...I think Bitter Sweet might be optimistic but in war nobody wins.
It’s right there with ASOIAF and First Law as a series where character deaths really hurt.
I’ve read all 5 books but I took a long break after reading the first trilogy and then books 4 and 5. The series is so intense, action packed and brutal that I needed a break. That worked well for me though as I really enjoyed Iron Gold and Dark Age.
Yeah, there were moments I had to take a break due to mental exhaustion. First time that had happened since Song of Ice & Fire.
This is one of my favorite series. The epicness, the scope, the fight scenes, the friendships are all just incredible. I’m right there with you about book 1, I was pretty meh on it. But I started book 2 right after, and my god. The quality of writing, plot, and action just shoot up ten fold. This series will always have a special place in my heart.
It was like when the first season of a TV is just okay and then season 2 melts your face off.
@@mikesbookreviews Absolutely, 10000%.
You persuaded me. Half way through golden son and loving it. Didn’t realise there was a sixth book to come. The more the merrier.
Buckle up! Golden Son is a wild ride.
I remember reading Red Rising back when the hype around it was it's biggest. And I found it weird, because to me it read as an Adult Hunger Games and I couldn't get past that aspect... I'm thinking now that it's been a few year that I may check it out from my library again and give it another go. I did enjoy Pierce Brown's writing and storytelling, so it may be worth it to push through and try to finish up the first trilogy.
Yeah, that's why I almost didn't continue. But I'm very glad that I did.
Iron Rain strategy is something to behold and I had goosebumps while reading it.
When the NASA Twitter account called for an Iron Rain I thought it was just the best.
@@mikesbookreviews 🤯
I wouldn't have started this series if it hadn't been for your recommendation, thanks for introducing me to this world. It's great stuff!
Glad you enjoyed it!
My son recommended these to me and I finally started them about 10 days ago. I found myself up until 2am several nights as I couldn’t put them down. I read quite a lot (mainly sci-fi and fantasy) and I found the characters very endearing. I also found some very beautiful prose in book three. Loved them.
Awesome! Welcome to the Rising.
Started this series thanks to your videos and read all 5 in about 3 weeks. Absolutely addicted. Can't wait to read book 6 but I'm also so afraid to see how this story ends.
Yeah, nervous excitement on book 6 ha ha
I'm starting the Red rising series today. Decided to "buckle down" and read it before 1/3rd of your video was through. This is my first video from you as well. Loved the content and the delivery of your review. You've gained a follower and fan in me. And, dare i say, given Mr Brown a fan too.
Thanks for watching! Hope to see you around more.
I picked up a hardcover of Iron Gold for $2 at a charity book sale a few weeks ago. The series was always on my TBR but I think its gonna move up that list quickly now :)
Excellent choice.
I am now going to try to push through on the first one. I enjoyed it but stopped to start another book and haven't picked it up in awhile. I just bought the rest of the series last month to try and pick back up. Thank you for this. It made my morning. Been watching at work. Trust me you are not with the S word we shall not write out loud. But you show you on a lot thought to give you a try and love your content. PLEASE make videos, as much as you want or as less as you want. bust just create the content.
Mike’s videos are the best!!
Thank you! I don't intend to stop. Hoping it's just a rough patch.
Red Rising is one of the best series ive ever read.
It is quite good, yes
We read Red Rising in my book circle, most readers there (non-fantasy/sci-fi) thought it was a bit too violent. But overall quite positive feeling about it.
I loved it however and continued with the triolgy. I'll get into the second one during 2022 hopefully
He does love him some stabby.
Loved you take on the series, you have sold me to try it again! I have had the first book on my shelf for years after co-workers raved about it and the timing wasn't right - only recently began reading fantasy and sci fi!!
Enjoy!
I am halfway through the second book and I have already had my fair share of goosebumps, tears, laughter and epicness.
I started this book last night because of seeing it repeatedly on your channel.
Wonderful!
I struggled a lot with book 1 but I am currently reading book 2 and am loving it so far
Golden Son is amazing
The pre-battle comms chats are my favorite. When they all just start bantering over comms
Your channel has come a long way man , your definitely one of best booktube channels 👍
Appreciate that!
It's insane how my eye is always drawn straight to your Harry Potter books. J.K. Rowling is the Author that started my love of reading. I grew up along-side Harry, Ron, and Hermione.
I enjoyed the original Red Rising trilogy. I thought they were all pretty good with Golden Son being my slight favourite. I felt the characters and the story were the strongest aspects of the series. I haven't started the second trilogy yet. I'm not sure whether to read them now or wait until Book 6 is announced so they stay fresh in my mind for the finale.
At this point I'd say to wait. But do what works for you, my friend.
@@mikesbookreviews Thanks for the input! I have a lot of other series to get to, so I think I’ll read those first then get hyped for Red Rising again once Book 6 is announced.
This series is high on my radar. This summer/fall is looking a lot more open, so I may be able to finally go to this. I have been looking forward to it!
I know you'll dig it.
My favorite series of all time. Not the best series, for sure, but my favorite, the one I will reread happily every year!
I'm excited to do a re-read leading up to the release of book 6.
Just announced - Book 6 May 20, 2023, and Book 7 TBC, yep two new books.
I read Red Rising a few years ago. I really enjoyed it, but life got in the way and I did not continue. I hope to re-read it and continue on, since I have already purchased the second and third books.
However, if I had not already read it, this video certainly would have convinced me. Thanks for sharing!
Hope you enjoy it!
The audiobooks are top 5 in Audible. Tim Gerard Reynolds does INSANE narration
Per Goodreads, book 6 will be titled Lightbringer and will release this year. I doubt both but hey figured I’d throw it out there
Yeah, I've seen that. Would be an interesting title choice.
I have books 1, 4 & 5 sitting in my TBR pile. I appreciate you doing this video. This is a series a plan to read.
Hope you love it!
I've only read the first book so far, and like you, I thought it was okay. I do plan to read the rest of it. After watching this it's pushing me to read it sooner rather than later though. Side note: One of my internet friends actually got into the series recently because he'd seen me talking about having read the first book. And also the board game that just came out based on this world. He too thought it was okay, I told him though based on what I've heard from you and others who have read the series that it gets better and darker. Anyway, great video!
Hope you enjoy book 2!
I actually just bought “The Red Rising” and that is a thanks to you. Otherwise I never would’ve picked it up.
I know this is the series for me when the "bad" section of the video sounds great to me
Ha ha, right?
Just finished sharp ends by Abercrombie a few hours ago, tomorrow I plan to start Red Rising and it’s all thanks to you Mike and your “ why you should read” video.Hell you even made my wife want to read it as well,you are already 1 for 1 with your recommendation of first law(read it all except age of madness trilogy) let’s see if you were right about Red Rising as well!
Outstanding!
You convinced me. Just read the first 300 pages of Red Rising today.
Outstanding!
i do not think I've read a series on repeat like red rising it is amazing
Best series I have ever read
Kick ass!
The Red Rising series is one of my all-time favorites. I've read the first three books three times. Sevro is probably in my top-five favorite characters from any genre. I'd love to see a TV adaptation by HBO or someone with a lot of money. However, books four and five are probably too dark. There are some scenes that I think are unfilmable.
I read Red Rising back when it came out and enjoyed it quite a bit. I think I’ll reread it and see if I want to continue. Thanks for the series review.
Enjoy!
Maybe one day. I've been meaning to get into more sci-fi since an overwhelming majority of what I pick up seems to be fantasy.
They're a great change of pace.
Red Rising Series is one of the best book series out there. Glad you liked it.
I got Red Rising sitting right on the shelf above my desk, just waiting for me to dive in. I just don't know when yet, but this video amped up my excitement
I think you'll like it.
Unrelated, but I learned today that Saga is back from hiatus with issue #55 currently available. Probably old news.
I'm letting 5-6 issues build up before I start the new ones.
I loved this trilogy quite a lot. The end fizzled out a little bit for me, but the twists and turns really get you. The world is also very interesting even though there wasn't a lot expansion of the world building beyond Mars and a few auxiliary places.
Overall, the whole trilogy is very solid with lots of interesting ideas and amazing battles.
He does expand the solar system quite a bit in the sequels. Love the stuff on the outer planets.
@@mikesbookreviews Good to know. I'm just finishing Jade Legacy (Book 3 of Greenbone Saga) and John Gwynne's Valour and will be moving on to Iron Gold.
I'm loving John Gwynne's books, by the way. I started reading them on your recommendation and they're really good. Lots of characters that are easy to love.
Have all five books on the shelf ready to go near the end of the year.
Fun!
My favorite series
Definitely my favorite modern sci-fi series. Just ahead of The Expanse and Sun Eater.
I love how you flesh out taste cos no two peoples’ are the same. I like stuff that’s character-based and driven too.
You sold me on these, Mike! May not be my very next read but very soon!
Awesome!
I wached this video when you put it out in Feb and I had already added the first book to my wish list. Today I finished the first book and I'm so excited to go on with the second one! I must say, this guy made me cry a few times just in this first one so I'm buckling up for what's to come XD I love his prose, it's not super flowery and it's easy to go through. I will definitely start the second book soon. Thank you so much for recommending this series!
Trying my best to avoid spoilers, but I just finished Morningstar on audiobook. Near the end I lost my shit and hated a character that I was starting to like. Then just before the very end there's a moment in the bunker where I stopped the audio and just said, "wow...holy sh*t" because of how savage it was and other characters felt the shock of the savagery. Couldn't agree more about how awesome razors are. I love this first trilogy and cannot wait to start Iron Gold. Thanks for bringing this series out into to the spotlight, at least for me. It is slightly concerning if the 2nd trilogy is getting darker to the level you describe, but I can't stop now.
If you make it to Dark Age, that moment will seem tame by comparison ha ha
I’ve had this in my library for a year now. I finally have a little time to read on the weekends so I’ll be diving in here and there.
Enjoy!
Comment for the algorithm -- great review, Mike
Thanks!
I'm through Golden Son and have Morning Star on the TBR for April. I agree with nearly all of your assessments on the series so far. Picked up the series because of you and definitely recommend it to anyone that loves grimdark fantasy but are interested in seeing what sci-fi is about. Thanks, Mike!
Excited for you. The ending of Morning Star is wild.
I literally bought all the released books so far in hardcover just because of you haha. (Doesn’t hurt they also look good on the shelf)
I'm always happy to help you guys spend your money.
Thanks Mike, the review is beautifully done and is worthy of the series.
A path of no return… After finishing the first trilogy I heard about the darkness that awaits in the next. But I also knew there is no turning back. Took me a year to build up the courage; today, a new journey of heartaches begin. Here we go, to the howlers…
Great series, I read the first 3 after your last video on this topic. Well worth it. I have the next two ready to go, was waiting until we get close to the release of the last volume before I finish.
Yeah my wife loved the trilogy and refused to start the sequel trilogy until it was done. I envy her not having this wait ha ha
Just finished dark age this week. Very excited for the final book!
Same page, my man.
I decided to read this series based on your "why you should read it" video. Thanks for the recommendation, because I really like this series alot. I even liked book 1. If I had to choose something to put in the bad category, I felt like the original three books was a very solid trilogy where everything was wrapped up nicely for me. I didn't need to series to go on. But there was no way I could ignore books 5 and 6. In Iron Gold, I did not like that we moved to a four person POV story. I liked it all coming from Darrow. Regardless, the only characters I did not connect with in Iron Gold was Ephraim. Still, a very solid book. In Dark Age, I felt it was a bit long, but there was some very good story told there, especially Victra. Man, did she shine. Her parts were fantastic to read. Dark Age made my top 10 last year. That being said, I can't wait to read book 6.
The sequels are certainly divisive. I appreciated the multi-POV choice. Made the universe feel bigger. But I get it when others didn't.
Woohoooo!!! Maybe this will be the kick in the pants I need to finally start Iron Gold!!!
DEWIT
Keep doing things like this, Mike.
I certainly plan to!
Because of u I started this. Now on second book…. Wow. THANK YOU. Savro for the win!! !!
I've been considering this series, so thanks for steering clear of spoilers while still giving us a good idea of the pros and cons. :)
No problem! Hope you enjoy.
Finished Dark Age yesterday. One thing I know is that when he kills characters I like in a good way it’s gonna be good. Painful, but good.
VERY painful.
What a great review. I’ve always wanted to get into this series.
No better time than now!
I stopped after book 3-which is a FANTASTIC “ending” btw. Didn’t enjoy it enough to want to continue on. Sci-fi and fantasy isn’t my thing
That'll happen.
I just finished book 5 and I have truly loved the series - can't wait for book 6
Can't wait for book 6 because it will get even more brutal
Something I thought was cool about these books is how razors were talked about for a long time but the specifics about them weren't revealed until much later (I think the second book during the duel?).
Razors are so legit. I love them.
Love this series. Finished the first and now on the beginning of the second. World building is insane
Your contribution to this series is incredible
I think I've read the first trilogy in about three weeks time, absolutely devoured it. 4 and 5 I definitely needed a couple breaks. I was just so emotionally invested, there were points in the story where it got so tense I actually had to lay the book aside and clear my head. It's so action packed, with the single POV you're slowly preparing for big moments it feels like but with the multiple POV you can never catch a break haha, theres always something going on, lots of crazy stuff.
I definitely prefer the second series (cant really call it a trilogy anymore since he announced TWO more books, yay). I thought a certain part of book 2 was the worst Pierce Brown could ever make me feel but my god Dark Age is something else man. Can't wait til May!
Okay I'll finally pick this up
Excellent!
I’ve had this series on my radar for some time now. I just need to get around to it.
Here's hoping!
These were my favorite books up until Dark Age. The psychotic cruelty and death of that one almost broke me. I’m not as big a fan of grim dark as you are and this went to a much too dark place for me. I’ll probably read the last book when it comes out. If I can heal my soul by then.
Yeah, I heard that a lot.
Yeah not gonna lie when a certain character found a certain something in a tree..... That made me put it down for a bit and collect myself
Now I've just up this series on my tbr list. Thank you Mike!
I read the original trilogy a few years ago but haven't kept up since then, I guess time to revisit.
Highest of recommends.
Pulling up this video, I’m so scared what you’re going to say!! 😬 this has been on my TBR a while
Started reading the first book yesterday because of you. So far I see the YA comparison (but more violent yes😂) so far pretty decent. Will save my judgement after book 2 because I know people say book 1 is the "bad" one.
I will definitely be checking this out now. Thanks, Mike!
My pleasure!
The Red Rising board game is awesome when playing with other fans and the wife and I love it. I got her in the books and she has read them more than me now. Top sci-fi for us and why here now and reading book 1 again at least after playing the board game. The game is based on the first book.
I enjoyed The Hunger Games but always felt it was lacking a little something. Red Rising was such a breath of fresh air I always looked at it like it was what I wanted out of The Hunger Games and then some. I was expecting similar out of the sequel but you're right, Brown evolved his characters and likely himself so much. I've enjoyed the trilogy immensely. 4 and 5 were tougher for me to get through. So many point of views. That's just me. I understand others dig it. I'm still looking forward to Lightbringer and since this video was made a 7th installment, Red God has been announced. While the later entries have been harder for me the high points are well worth the grind. I can't wait to see how this all turns out. I have my predictions. I hope I'm wrong and I'm sure I will be because this ride has been extremely unpredictable.
100% Agree with the whole thing, there were some parts where it was frustrating he didn't reveal some of the stuff beforehand, but I always saw it as a device to keep the interest and action going. The first one was definitely slower paced and was alot like the hunger games, but I'm neutral on it. The strategy in the whole book series was phenomenal and the second and third were so fast paced that I couldn't put them down. I finished the first book in like a week but read the second and the third in two days flat. I'm waiting on the third one in the second trilogy series to come out to start back up again, if they're as fast paced as the last two, I'm not going to want to wait hahaha. I'd honestly love a prequel trilogy if he did that as well!!! Last thing I will say is that it's definitely not a prose style book series, but it's better prose than Hemingway's jarring style that was often slow paced when I read for whom the bell tolls, literally could not read it, but also not John Steinbeck where he spent wayyy too long describing stuff.
book 1 was indeed Hunger Games on Mars, may'be a bit more mature and complex though.....
After that the series is flying!!!!!!!!!!
Excellent read!!!!
Night and day difference between book 1 and 2. It's wild.
@@mikesbookreviews yuuuuuppp!!!! And then the rollercoaster starts!!!!
Seeing you posting about this video on Instagram convinced me to pick the series back up, polished off red rising in 2 days, currently desperate to pick up golden sun. Hopefully the character death isn’t too much for me
I been planning to read the series since you're first review. I'm planning to start reading the first one after I finish the 8 Malazan book (already 60% done)
You'll fly through this series after reading a Malazan book ha ha
Just finished the first book and I had another book planned after but I liked this so much I dove right into the second.
I'm halfway through Golden Son and really liking. But I hope it doesn't veer into shockjock, edgelord territory like Sons of Anarchy or some crap like that. Death for the sake of death, backstabbing for the sake of a "twist," etc.
I own all the books, only read the first. I was hard to get through, even though I liked the story. The writing style was difficult to read and it's just made me weary to continue. After I finish Shadow Of The Gods I think I'll start book 2.
Night and day difference. In everything. Book 2 is just superb.