Rise of the Golden Dawn – Review of “Golden Son” by Pierce Brown

Welcome back, cosmic voyagers! We’re on to our next celestial adventure, plunging headfirst into the fiery star of “Golden Son,” the second book in the Red Rising Trilogy by Pierce Brown. Grab your spacesuits, it’s going to be a gripping ride!

In “Golden Son,” we return to the exhilarating universe of Darrow, our hero on a mission. The stakes are higher, the battles are bloodier, and the politics are even more intense. Darrow, now fully integrated into Gold society, must navigate the perilous world of political maneuvering and power plays as he continues his dangerous bid to dismantle the society he’s infiltrated.

Pierce Brown’s world-building continues to impress in this sequel. The spectrum of colors representing the societal castes is more vividly explored, and the gory details of Gold politics are thrillingly laid bare. The narrative is a roller-coaster of emotions, with breathtaking highs and crushing lows, as Darrow grapples with the realities of his mission.

Yet, amidst the grandeur of the world-building and plot intricacies, it’s Brown’s characters that shine the brightest. The depth of character development, particularly Darrow’s, is remarkable. He’s not just a faceless hero; he’s complex, flawed, and deeply human. The supporting cast, too, are richly drawn, each with their own motivations and conflicts.

However, be prepared: “Golden Son” is not a gentle read. It takes you on a gut-wrenching ride, full of twists and turns that will leave you breathless. The violence, already a notable element in “Red Rising,” is amplified here, reflecting the escalating stakes of Darrow’s mission.

Why Should I Read This Book?

“Golden Son” expands on the world of “Red Rising” in electrifying ways, deepening the intrigue, amplifying the action, and adding layers of complexity to its characters. If you were gripped by Darrow’s journey in the first book, this sequel will take your breath away with its high-stakes power plays and heart-wrenching character arcs.

Why Shouldn’t I Read This Book?

The brutality and violence of “Golden Son” are more intense than its predecessor. It’s not a light read by any means, and some scenes may be hard to stomach. If you prefer your sci-fi less grim and more optimistic, this might not be the journey for you.

In conclusion, “Golden Son” is a stellar continuation of Darrow’s journey. It’s a testament to Pierce Brown’s storytelling prowess, mixing action, intrigue, and character development in a captivating blend. The book concludes on a cliffhanger that will have you reaching for the next book as fast as a spaceship at light speed.

Where shall our literary spaceship fly next in the cosmos of books?

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Golden Son by Pierce Brown on Audible