In the future, the human race has been divided into 14 different color castes that determine every individual's role and placement in the hierarchical structure of society. This underlying idea is at the core of Pierce Brown’s epic science fiction series, Red Rising, and tells the story of one man, Darrow of Lykos, and his mission to tear it all down.
First released in 2014, the first title, Red Rising, introduces us to the series' protagonist, Darrow, a Red Helldiver of Mars and the lowest of the citizens. Events out of Darrow’s control put him on a path that will see him go from the bottom of society to the top, becoming a symbol and legend that strikes fear into his enemies and inspires hope in his allies. Unlike many other science fiction series, Red Rising isn’t a tale of a utopian society that has spread out amongst the stars. Instead, it is a world of war, betrayal, and uneasy alliances, where some of the worst societal practices have flourished and evolved. Yet it is still a universe where hope still finds a way to survive, and joy and love can still be found, even in the darkest and most profound places.
Compared to other series, like Brandon Sanderson’s Cosmere or George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire, reading through the Red Rising series is a straightforward affair. The series is divided into two arcs, with the first three novels - Red Rising, Golden Son, and Morning Star- being referred to as the “Red Rising Trilogy”. The second half, which takes place 10 years later, being the “Iron Gold Quadrilogy” and consisting of the remaining novels. Despite being a science fiction series, this series deals with mature themes and graphic violence, and isn’t advised for younger readers.
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FantasyScience FictionMysteryHorror/ThrillerRomanceDystopianI prefer non-fictionPierce Brown’s Red Rising series will comprise seven books in total, but currently, all but the final book have been released. The first three titles, composing the Red Rising Trilogy, are told strictly through the viewpoint of the character, Darrow. In contrast, the rest of the books, the Iron Gold Quadrilogy, are told through multiple characters' viewpoints.
Red Rising
Taking place one year after Golden Son, Morning Star sees the Reaper at his lowest yet as he deals with the effects of being betrayed, and his year-long isolation. His work isn’t done yet, however, and his mission must go on, but at what cost? This third book brings the conclusion of the original trilogy of the Red Rising Saga, setting Darrow and his friends on a path they could never have imagined, one that will require relying on old enemies to make it through alive.
Iron Gold
In the world of Red Rising, humanity is divided into distinct castes, each associated with a specific color, with individuals born with both a sigil and eye color that correspond to their class. Ruled over by golds, this “Society” has been in charge for over 700 years by the start of the first book. Here is a breakdown of all 14 colors and their respective roles within the Society.
The High Colors
- Golds
- Rules over all other colors.
- Silvers
- Composed of business owners
- Whites
- Members of the clergy and judges
- Coppers
- The lawyers, administrators, and bureaucrats of the Society
The Mid Colors
- Blues
- Pilots and the bridge crew of ships
- Yellows
- Doctors and scientists
- Greens
- Programmers and techs
- Violets
- Artisans and creatives
- Oranges
- Mechanics and engineers
- Grays
- Infantry, police, and security
Low Colors
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