Books Like Hunger Games: Thrilling Dystopian Adventures You’ll Love

If The Hunger Games hooked you with its high-stakes action, fierce heroines, and dystopian rebellion, you're probably searching for your next adrenaline-filled read. Luckily, there’s a treasure trove of similar books that deliver gripping adventures, oppressive societies, and unforgettable characters. Whether you love survival stories, forbidden romances, or tales of rising against the odds, this list of books like Hunger Games is sure to satisfy your hunger for thrilling dystopian adventures.

Top Books Like Hunger Games for Dystopian Fans

1. Divergent by Veronica Roth

For fans of Panem’s divided districts, Divergent offers a similarly fractured world where society is split into factions based on virtues like bravery, intelligence, and honesty. Tris Prior discovers she doesn’t fit neatly into any one group—she’s Divergent. When this secret puts her life at risk, Tris finds herself at the heart of a rebellion that could destroy her entire society. With its edge-of-your-seat action, complex characters, and romantic tension, Divergent is a must-read for fans of Katniss Everdeen’s fight for survival.

2. The Maze Runner by James Dashner

If you loved the survival aspect of The Hunger Games, The Maze Runner delivers an equally intense journey. Thomas wakes up in a mysterious, ever-changing maze with no memory of his past. The only way to escape is to navigate deadly traps, battle monstrous creatures, and uncover the truth about who put them there—and why. Packed with twists, high-stakes action, and a race against time, this series will leave you breathless.

3. Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard

What if your blood determined your destiny? In the world of Red Queen, the elite Silver-blooded people wield godlike powers, while the powerless Reds serve as their oppressed underclass. When Mare Barrow, a Red, unexpectedly discovers she has abilities of her own, she’s thrust into a dangerous game of politics, rebellion, and betrayal. Perfect for readers who loved the class struggles and revolutionary spirit of The Hunger Games, this series is full of shocking twists and heart-pounding moments.

4. Legend by Marie Lu

This dystopian series pits two teens from opposite sides of a corrupt regime against each other. June is a military prodigy groomed for success, while Day is a street-smart rebel fighting to survive. Their paths collide when June is tasked with hunting Day, only to uncover dark truths about the government she’s sworn to protect. With its fast-paced plot, morally complex characters, and a simmering romance, Legend is a perfect follow-up to The Hunger Games.

5. The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey

The apocalypse comes not from a corrupt government, but from an alien invasion in The 5th Wave. After waves of attacks devastate Earth, Cassie Sullivan must survive in a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction. As she searches for her younger brother, Cassie faces impossible decisions, unexpected allies, and the fight to keep hope alive. If you enjoyed the survivalist themes of The Hunger Games, this gripping series is for you.

6. Matched by Ally Condie

In a world where the government controls everything, even your soulmate is assigned to you. But when Cassia’s Match reveals a glitch—a second face flashes on the screen—she starts questioning the system and her own heart. Matched offers a softer dystopian vibe, perfect for readers who enjoyed the romance and societal control themes in The Hunger Games.

7. Scythe by Neal Shusterman

In this chilling dystopian future, humanity has conquered death, and Scythes are tasked with “gleaning” lives to control the population. Citra and Rowan are chosen as apprentice Scythes, but their training turns into a deadly competition where only one can survive. With its thought-provoking themes about life, power, and morality, Scythe delivers the kind of gripping intensity fans of The Hunger Games will love.

8. The Selection by Kiera Cass

What if The Bachelor met a dystopian royal court? In The Selection, thirty-five girls compete for the heart of Prince Maxon—and the chance to escape their caste-driven lives. But beneath the glittering gowns and romantic rivalries, rebellion simmers. With its mix of romance, drama, and social commentary, this series is perfect for readers who enjoyed the Capitol’s glamour contrasted with District 13’s rebellion.

9. Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi

Juliette Ferrars’ touch is deadly—literally. Locked away by a corrupt government, she must decide whether to let her powers destroy her or use them to fight back. Shatter Me is an intense blend of romance, dystopia, and self-discovery, with lyrical writing and high-stakes drama that fans of The Hunger Games will adore.

10. Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi

This West African-inspired fantasy delivers the same fierce rebellion and powerful characters as The Hunger Games, but in a richly imagined magical world. Zélie fights to restore magic to her oppressed people while battling powerful enemies and her own doubts. If you’re ready to step into a world of elemental magic, political intrigue, and emotional depth, this book is for you.

Why These Books Should Be on Your TBR List

From deadly competitions to dystopian rebellions, these books capture the essence of what makes The Hunger Games so unforgettable. Whether you’re craving intense action, forbidden romance, or thought-provoking themes, you’ll find plenty of thrilling adventures here to keep you hooked.

So, which of these books like Hunger Games will you read next? Let us know your top picks, and get ready to dive into your next unputdownable series!