Dystopian societies, fearless heroines, and heart-racing adventures—Veronica Roth’s Divergent trilogy delivered a gripping blend of action and suspense that left readers craving more.
Whether you chose Dauntless, Abnegation, or secretly identified with multiple factions, it’s tough to close the final book and step away.
But don’t worry! If you’re hungry for rebellion, brave protagonists, and thought-provoking worlds, here are 9 fantastic books like Divergent that will have you flipping pages late into the night.
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Let’s start with the OG dystopian YA, The Hunger Games—because if you loved Tris, you’ll undoubtedly root for Katniss Everdeen.
In the brutal world of Panem, teens are chosen annually to fight to the death on live television. Dark? Yes. Addictive? Absolutely.
Katniss volunteers in place of her sister, thrusting her into a deadly competition filled with cunning opponents, unexpected alliances, and heart-wrenching sacrifices.
Why its a book like Divergent: The Hunger Games has a fierce female protagonist, gritty survival themes, and commentary on society’s obsession with spectacle.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.8/5)
Legend by Marie Lu
Imagine a dystopian America split by war, plague, and political intrigue. June is a military prodigy, Day is a wanted criminal, and their paths cross with explosive consequences.
Why it’s like Divergent: Dual perspectives, fast-paced action, and moral complexities make it impossible to pick sides.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5)
The Maze Runner by James Dashner
When it comes to books like Divergent, James Dashner’s The Maze Runner series is a must.
Everyone must have seen the movie by now, right? Waking up in a giant maze with no memories is rough—especially when creepy monsters stalk the shadows. Thomas must lead a group of lost teens to escape their terrifying surroundings.
Why readers devour it: Mystery, suspense, and genuine scares at every turn.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.2/5)
Matched by Ally Condie
In Cassia’s society, life choices—career, spouse, even death—are carefully controlled. When a technical glitch reveals a forbidden match, Cassia begins questioning her rigidly structured world.
Condie beautifully captures Cassia’s internal struggles as she grapples with love, identity, and rebellion.
Similarities with Divergent: A profound narrative on individualism and free will against an oppressive system, wrapped in a compelling love story.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½ (3.9/5)
Delirium by Lauren Oliver
Love is seen as a dangerous disease in Lena’s dystopian reality, cured by mandatory surgery at eighteen.
Lena anticipates her operation until she meets Alex, who shows her the exhilarating—and terrifying—power of love.
Oliver’s writing is emotionally rich and evocative, creating a world that feels achingly real. Lena’s internal battle and the urgency of her fight for love are captivating and thought-provoking.
What makes it stand out: Oliver’s poetic writing and powerful exploration of love’s rebellious nature.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.1/5)
Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi
If you want to read more books like Divergent, Tahereh Mafi has Shatter Me series for you.
Juliette’s touch can kill—a power the regime wants to exploit. Imprisoned for years, her life changes when she’s freed by rebels intent on harnessing her gift for revolution.
Mafi’s poetic, mesmerizing style immerses readers deeply in Juliette’s emotional turmoil, her growth from victim to hero, and her struggle to reclaim her humanity.
Why you’ll get hooked: Beautifully unique prose, a compelling romantic subplot, and a heroine’s inspiring journey from isolation to empowerment.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5)
The Selection by Kiera Cass
What if The Bachelor took place in a royal dystopia? America Singer is chosen to compete for a prince’s heart in a society rigidly divided by class.
Cass delivers drama, romance, and tension masterfully, as America navigates political scheming and personal desires.
Divergent fans appreciate: The intense societal pressure, hidden agendas, and America’s fiery independence.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.0/5)
Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard
In a world divided by blood—Red for commoners, Silver for elites with superhuman abilities—Mare Barrow disrupts everything by exhibiting powers she shouldn’t have.
Aveyard crafts an intricate web of deception, betrayal, and rebellion, plunging Mare into a fight she never anticipated.
Why it feels like Divergent: A strong protagonist, relentless pace, and layers of political intrigue.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.1/5)
Uglies by Scott Westerfeld
Tally’s world believes beauty is everything—literally. On their sixteenth birthdays, teens undergo surgery to become “Pretty.”
Tally eagerly awaits her transformation until she uncovers the ugly truth behind the system. Westerfeld’s vivid storytelling dissects societal standards of beauty, identity, and conformity.
This novel masterfully combines thrilling adventures with powerful commentary, compelling readers to rethink their perceptions.
Fans adore it because: Sharp social commentary and a gripping journey toward self-discovery.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.0/5)
Comparing Books Like Divergent
| Title | Author | Key Theme | Adaptation Status |
| The Hunger Games | Suzanne Collins | Survival, Rebellion | Films |
| Legend | Marie Lu | War, Dual Perspectives | In Development |
| The Maze Runner | James Dashner | Mystery, Escape | Films |
| Matched | Ally Condie | Choice, Love | Rights Optioned |
| Delirium | Lauren Oliver | Love as a Disease | TV Pilot |
| Shatter Me | Tahereh Mafi | Power, Isolation | TV Rights Optioned |
| The Selection | Kiera Cass | Class Divide, Romance | Netflix Movie (Rights Optioned) |
| Red Queen | Victoria Aveyard | Power, Revolution | TV in development |
| Uglies | Scott Westerfeld | Beauty Standards, Identity | Netflix Movie |
Final Thoughts: Ready to Dive Back into Dystopia?
Each of these books brings something uniquely captivating—whether it’s heart-stopping romance, complex societies, or fierce heroines. Fans of Divergent will find plenty to love, debate, and recommend to friends.
Got a favorite? Think we missed one of the essential books like divergent? Drop a comment—we’d love to hear your dystopian recommendations!
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