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Red Rising Saga Dramatic Adaptations #2, Part 2
Golden Son (2 of 2) [Dramatized Adaptation]
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Red Rising hit the ground running and wasted no time becoming a sensation. Golden Son continues the stunning saga of Darrow, a rebel forged by tragedy, battling to lead his oppressed people to freedom.
Adapted from the novel and produced with a full cast of actors, immersive sound effects and cinematic music!
As a Red, Darrow grew up working the mines deep beneath the surface of Mars, enduring backbreaking labor while dreaming of the better future he was building for his descendants. But the Society he faithfully served was built on lies. Darrow’s kind have been betrayed and denied by their elitist masters, the Golds—and their only path to liberation is revolution. And so Darrow sacrifices himself in the name of the greater good for which Eo, his true love and inspiration, laid down her own life. He becomes a Gold, infiltrating their privileged realm so that he can destroy it from within.
A lamb among wolves in a cruel world, Darrow finds friendship, respect, and even love—but also the wrath of powerful rivals. To wage and win the war that will change humankind’s destiny, Darrow must confront the treachery arrayed against him, overcome his all-too-human desire for retribution—and strive not for violent revolt but a hopeful rebirth. Though the road ahead is fraught with danger and deceit, Darrow must choose to follow Eo’s principles of love and justice to free his people.
He must live for more.
Adapted from the novel and produced with a full cast of actors, immersive sound effects and cinematic music!
As a Red, Darrow grew up working the mines deep beneath the surface of Mars, enduring backbreaking labor while dreaming of the better future he was building for his descendants. But the Society he faithfully served was built on lies. Darrow’s kind have been betrayed and denied by their elitist masters, the Golds—and their only path to liberation is revolution. And so Darrow sacrifices himself in the name of the greater good for which Eo, his true love and inspiration, laid down her own life. He becomes a Gold, infiltrating their privileged realm so that he can destroy it from within.
A lamb among wolves in a cruel world, Darrow finds friendship, respect, and even love—but also the wrath of powerful rivals. To wage and win the war that will change humankind’s destiny, Darrow must confront the treachery arrayed against him, overcome his all-too-human desire for retribution—and strive not for violent revolt but a hopeful rebirth. Though the road ahead is fraught with danger and deceit, Darrow must choose to follow Eo’s principles of love and justice to free his people.
He must live for more.
9 pages, Audiobook
Published October 2, 2023
About the author
Pierce Brown
56 books58.4k followersHello. I'm Pierce Brown, the author of the Red Rising Saga, a NYT #1 bestseller.
I figured I'd write you myself than have corporate copy pasted below my totally natural author photo.
In my books you'll find stories of men and women finding their inner strength when all seems lost. You'll also find me exploring themes of love, violence, hope, and power--what it means, why people seek it, and how they hold onto it.
IG @piercebrownofficial
Twitter @pierce_brown
I figured I'd write you myself than have corporate copy pasted below my totally natural author photo.
In my books you'll find stories of men and women finding their inner strength when all seems lost. You'll also find me exploring themes of love, violence, hope, and power--what it means, why people seek it, and how they hold onto it.
IG @piercebrownofficial
Twitter @pierce_brown
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
April 29, 2026
OH MY GOODNESS I THOUGHT ROQUE WAS ONE OF THE GOOD ONES!!!😭😭😭😭
August 9, 2024
I don't think I'll ever listen to a casting as good as this. Whoever was responsible for picking Darrow, Sevro, and Jackal's voices deserve an insane raise.
September 29, 2024
از میان خارها تا دورترین ستارهها، همیشه بهیادماندنیترین تجربهام باقی میمانی
April 13, 2026
The Higher You Rise, The Harder You Fall
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: ❤️💚💙💛
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌍
Character development: 🤓😟🤯😎
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Graphic Audio – Full Cast Narration
Characters and Plot Dynamics
The second half of Golden Son raises the stakes dramatically, pushing Darrow to the brink as both a leader and a revolutionary. Once a Red born into slavery beneath Mars, Darrow now moves among the most powerful Golds, hiding his true identity while trying to fracture their empire from within. But in this installment, the cost of that deception becomes painfully clear.
Darrow has grown into a formidable force—both as a warrior and a tactician—but he is still learning that power in Gold society is as much about perception and alliances as it is about strength. His relationships deepen and strain under pressure, particularly with Mustang, whose intelligence and moral clarity continue to challenge his more ruthless instincts. Sevro remains fiercely loyal, grounding Darrow with his brutal honesty and unwavering support.
This portion of the story delivers some of the most pivotal and shocking moments in the series. Darrow launches bold and risky strategies to shift the balance of power, including daring military actions that showcase both his brilliance and his willingness to gamble everything. However, his aggressive approach begins to alienate key allies, creating fractures that his enemies are quick to exploit.
The political maneuvering intensifies as rival Gold houses circle, each seeking dominance. Trust becomes a rare commodity, and betrayal lurks behind every alliance. Darrow is forced to confront the consequences of his decisions—not just on the battlefield, but in the hearts of those closest to him.
Without spoiling key twists, this second half builds toward a devastating and unforgettable climax. Just when it seems Darrow may be gaining the upper hand, the story delivers a crushing turn that reshapes everything, leaving both Darrow and the listener reeling. It’s a powerful reminder that in this world, victory is never guaranteed—and the higher you rise, the harder you can fall.
Highlights & Limitations
Highlights:
• Explosive second half: The pacing accelerates with intense action, high-stakes battles, and major turning points that keep you fully engaged.
• Emotional depth: Relationships are tested in meaningful ways, adding weight to every decision and consequence.
• Unpredictable twists: The story refuses to follow a safe or expected path, delivering shocking developments that leave a lasting impact.
• Strategic warfare: Darrow’s tactics and risks make for thrilling, edge-of-your-seat moments.
• Expanded scope: The conflict grows beyond personal survival into a larger war for control and change.
Limitations:
• Heavy emotional toll: The darker developments and significant losses may be difficult for some listeners.
• Dynamics: The intricate web of alliances and rivalries can require close attention to fully follow.
• Abrupt intensity shifts: Some transitions between political strategy and action-heavy scenes can feel sudden, though they reflect the chaotic nature of the world.
Narration & Audio Production
The GraphicAudio adaptation once again excels, delivering a truly immersive “movie in your mind” experience. The full cast performance brings incredible energy and depth to the story, making each character feel distinct and alive.
The voice actors skillfully convey the heightened emotions of this installment—from quiet moments of tension to explosive confrontations. Darrow’s internal strife and outward confidence are especially well portrayed, capturing the duality of his character.
The sound design continues to be a standout feature. Background noises, from the hum of advanced technology to the chaos of battle, create a vivid sense of place. The music enhances the emotional beats without overwhelming the dialogue, adding intensity to action scenes and gravity to quieter, more reflective moments.
Together, the performances and production elevate the audiobook into a cinematic experience that fully immerses the listener in Darrow’s world.
Final Opinion
Golden Son (Part 2 of 2) is a gripping, emotionally charged continuation that delivers some of the most unforgettable moments in the Red Rising saga. I loved the intricate plot, the ever-expanding world-building, and the powerful character development that pushes Darrow—and those around him—to their limits.
The originality of the series continues to shine, particularly in its color-based society and the bold concept of dismantling it from within. This second half proves that the story is not afraid to take risks, delivering twists that are both shocking and meaningful. Though I didn’t like this book as much as I liked Red Rising. I think it is because I could empathize with Darrow more in Red Rising while he was just learning how to make it in the world of the golds, whereas in this book he was in control of his actions more.
Combined with the outstanding GraphicAudio narration, this audiobook is an intense and deeply immersive experience. It’s the kind of story that stays with you long after it ends—setting the stage perfectly for the final installment while leaving you eager (and maybe a little anxious) to see what comes next.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: ❤️💚💙💛
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌍
Character development: 🤓😟🤯😎
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Graphic Audio – Full Cast Narration
Characters and Plot Dynamics
The second half of Golden Son raises the stakes dramatically, pushing Darrow to the brink as both a leader and a revolutionary. Once a Red born into slavery beneath Mars, Darrow now moves among the most powerful Golds, hiding his true identity while trying to fracture their empire from within. But in this installment, the cost of that deception becomes painfully clear.
Darrow has grown into a formidable force—both as a warrior and a tactician—but he is still learning that power in Gold society is as much about perception and alliances as it is about strength. His relationships deepen and strain under pressure, particularly with Mustang, whose intelligence and moral clarity continue to challenge his more ruthless instincts. Sevro remains fiercely loyal, grounding Darrow with his brutal honesty and unwavering support.
This portion of the story delivers some of the most pivotal and shocking moments in the series. Darrow launches bold and risky strategies to shift the balance of power, including daring military actions that showcase both his brilliance and his willingness to gamble everything. However, his aggressive approach begins to alienate key allies, creating fractures that his enemies are quick to exploit.
The political maneuvering intensifies as rival Gold houses circle, each seeking dominance. Trust becomes a rare commodity, and betrayal lurks behind every alliance. Darrow is forced to confront the consequences of his decisions—not just on the battlefield, but in the hearts of those closest to him.
Without spoiling key twists, this second half builds toward a devastating and unforgettable climax. Just when it seems Darrow may be gaining the upper hand, the story delivers a crushing turn that reshapes everything, leaving both Darrow and the listener reeling. It’s a powerful reminder that in this world, victory is never guaranteed—and the higher you rise, the harder you can fall.
Highlights & Limitations
Highlights:
• Explosive second half: The pacing accelerates with intense action, high-stakes battles, and major turning points that keep you fully engaged.
• Emotional depth: Relationships are tested in meaningful ways, adding weight to every decision and consequence.
• Unpredictable twists: The story refuses to follow a safe or expected path, delivering shocking developments that leave a lasting impact.
• Strategic warfare: Darrow’s tactics and risks make for thrilling, edge-of-your-seat moments.
• Expanded scope: The conflict grows beyond personal survival into a larger war for control and change.
Limitations:
• Heavy emotional toll: The darker developments and significant losses may be difficult for some listeners.
• Dynamics: The intricate web of alliances and rivalries can require close attention to fully follow.
• Abrupt intensity shifts: Some transitions between political strategy and action-heavy scenes can feel sudden, though they reflect the chaotic nature of the world.
Narration & Audio Production
The GraphicAudio adaptation once again excels, delivering a truly immersive “movie in your mind” experience. The full cast performance brings incredible energy and depth to the story, making each character feel distinct and alive.
The voice actors skillfully convey the heightened emotions of this installment—from quiet moments of tension to explosive confrontations. Darrow’s internal strife and outward confidence are especially well portrayed, capturing the duality of his character.
The sound design continues to be a standout feature. Background noises, from the hum of advanced technology to the chaos of battle, create a vivid sense of place. The music enhances the emotional beats without overwhelming the dialogue, adding intensity to action scenes and gravity to quieter, more reflective moments.
Together, the performances and production elevate the audiobook into a cinematic experience that fully immerses the listener in Darrow’s world.
Final Opinion
Golden Son (Part 2 of 2) is a gripping, emotionally charged continuation that delivers some of the most unforgettable moments in the Red Rising saga. I loved the intricate plot, the ever-expanding world-building, and the powerful character development that pushes Darrow—and those around him—to their limits.
The originality of the series continues to shine, particularly in its color-based society and the bold concept of dismantling it from within. This second half proves that the story is not afraid to take risks, delivering twists that are both shocking and meaningful. Though I didn’t like this book as much as I liked Red Rising. I think it is because I could empathize with Darrow more in Red Rising while he was just learning how to make it in the world of the golds, whereas in this book he was in control of his actions more.
Combined with the outstanding GraphicAudio narration, this audiobook is an intense and deeply immersive experience. It’s the kind of story that stays with you long after it ends—setting the stage perfectly for the final installment while leaving you eager (and maybe a little anxious) to see what comes next.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
March 5, 2026
This series will be the death of me.
November 1, 2024
Absolutely incredible. The Voice Actor's brought me to my knees with this one... 
I love this world so much, even though it brings with it so. much. pain.
I love this world so much, even though it brings with it so. much. pain.
February 13, 2026
I'll never recover from this shit, that's all I know.
October 8, 2025
5 ⭐️
WTF WAS THAT ENDING?!?!?!? Im gagged and cannot even fathom what I just read! I’m fully convinced that Pierce Brown is the King of writing unexpected betrayals. Truly my jaw is on the floor!
The first book in this series was good and hooks you but damn this second book EATS!!!!!!
WTF WAS THAT ENDING?!?!?!? Im gagged and cannot even fathom what I just read! I’m fully convinced that Pierce Brown is the King of writing unexpected betrayals. Truly my jaw is on the floor!
The first book in this series was good and hooks you but damn this second book EATS!!!!!!
March 9, 2026
March 2026: how do I update these privately pls help
august 2025: third time through (this year 😅😅😅) and still UTTERLY DESTROYED (and utterly riveted) BY THIS ENDING
”And thus go liars…with a bloodydamn kiss.” 🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬
THIS CLIFFHANGER WILL NEVER RELEASE ITS CHOKEHOLD ON ME!!!! IT IS THE GOAT!! EVERY OTHER BOOK, JUST TRY TO COME FOR IT!! YOU WILL NEVER ACHIEVE ITS CLIFFHANGER STATUS!!! YOU WILL DESTROY READERS THE SAME WAY ONLY IN YOUR WILDEST DREAMS!!
sorry still riding the adrenaline high 😅
august 2025: third time through (this year 😅😅😅) and still UTTERLY DESTROYED (and utterly riveted) BY THIS ENDING
”And thus go liars…with a bloodydamn kiss.” 🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬
THIS CLIFFHANGER WILL NEVER RELEASE ITS CHOKEHOLD ON ME!!!! IT IS THE GOAT!! EVERY OTHER BOOK, JUST TRY TO COME FOR IT!! YOU WILL NEVER ACHIEVE ITS CLIFFHANGER STATUS!!! YOU WILL DESTROY READERS THE SAME WAY ONLY IN YOUR WILDEST DREAMS!!
sorry still riding the adrenaline high 😅
August 29, 2025
This was a really complicated story! But so good!! Straight on to book 3 to find out what happens next!
October 20, 2025
If Red Rising was brutal, Golden Son was a full-speed, blood-soaked emotional disaster 😭 Pierce Brown really said “oh, you liked pain?” and doubled down. Everything I loved from the first book — the scheming, the betrayals, the desperation — just… bigger. Louder. Meaner.
The politics? Messy.
The action? Relentless.
The heartbreak? Unforgivable.
And Darrow? My guy is out here trying to change the universe while barely holding himself together, and I felt every single second of it.
And okay… I thought I loved this book the first time I read it, but listening to the graphic audio version? Holy sh*t. It’s like a full-on movie in your ears. The voices, the sound effects, the chaos — everything hits harder. 10/10 worth the emotional damage.
Still recovering. Still obsessed. Still not over that ending. 😭🔥
The politics? Messy.
The action? Relentless.
The heartbreak? Unforgivable.
And Darrow? My guy is out here trying to change the universe while barely holding himself together, and I felt every single second of it.
And okay… I thought I loved this book the first time I read it, but listening to the graphic audio version? Holy sh*t. It’s like a full-on movie in your ears. The voices, the sound effects, the chaos — everything hits harder. 10/10 worth the emotional damage.
Still recovering. Still obsessed. Still not over that ending. 😭🔥
June 10, 2025
Review of adaptation, may contain spoilers.
When I first read Golden Son, I thought it was great. I thought it was worth the slog of Red Rising. Golden Son I often see as the fan favorite of the original trilogy, whereas mine was always Morning Star. This version really raises the bar for Morning Star.
I’m still not used to, and am unlikely to ever be used to, Adrius/Jackal sounding much older than he is. But the main cast is perfection. Aja, Mustang, Viktra, Ragnar, Sevro, Darrow I could go on. These all have brought these characters to life in a way I didn’t realize I needed.
I don’t know where or how to nominate any of these wonderful voice actors for an award but I would really love to. ESPECIALLY Mustang’s. Her confrontation with Darrow at the end didn’t make me cry when I listened to the original audiobook. But I absolutely did this round. Her pain is palpable. You can hear the pleading. Viktra’s heart wrenching lines at the end really drive home.
Graphic Audio did such a wonderful job, I’ve considered that maybe Golden Son should be my favorite too.
So so excited to move on to Morning Star.
When I first read Golden Son, I thought it was great. I thought it was worth the slog of Red Rising. Golden Son I often see as the fan favorite of the original trilogy, whereas mine was always Morning Star. This version really raises the bar for Morning Star.
I’m still not used to, and am unlikely to ever be used to, Adrius/Jackal sounding much older than he is. But the main cast is perfection. Aja, Mustang, Viktra, Ragnar, Sevro, Darrow I could go on. These all have brought these characters to life in a way I didn’t realize I needed.
I don’t know where or how to nominate any of these wonderful voice actors for an award but I would really love to. ESPECIALLY Mustang’s. Her confrontation with Darrow at the end didn’t make me cry when I listened to the original audiobook. But I absolutely did this round. Her pain is palpable. You can hear the pleading. Viktra’s heart wrenching lines at the end really drive home.
Graphic Audio did such a wonderful job, I’ve considered that maybe Golden Son should be my favorite too.
So so excited to move on to Morning Star.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 8, 2026
Bloodydamn, hype MUCH deserved!!! 👏 My first completed read of 2026 - I didn’t think it’d get better than the first Red Rising book, but I was hooked from start to finish! So many complex emotions, character development, action, and world building. And that ending 🤯 made me audibly gasp ….will be thinking about for a while! 🔥 🔥 🔥
Also I’m still processing but I can’t type too much since I’m already onto the 3rd book 💨 btw, I continue to *stan* dramatized audio, the voices/effects are the besttttt form of escape! 🤩
Also I’m still processing but I can’t type too much since I’m already onto the 3rd book 💨 btw, I continue to *stan* dramatized audio, the voices/effects are the besttttt form of escape! 🤩
October 13, 2025
Such a bloodydamn ending! I can’t believe this is the second time I’m reading (well—listening to) this book! Gorydamn, OMG!
For the second time, I enjoyed every single second of it. Huge thanks to GraphicAudio for bringing the story to life so vividly. Their work makes the experience incredibly immersive.
The plan? To dive straight into Book 3—immediately!
I love you, Pierce Brown! 😭 This is a masterpiece and remains one of my all-time favorite series!
For the second time, I enjoyed every single second of it. Huge thanks to GraphicAudio for bringing the story to life so vividly. Their work makes the experience incredibly immersive.
The plan? To dive straight into Book 3—immediately!
I love you, Pierce Brown! 😭 This is a masterpiece and remains one of my all-time favorite series!
March 5, 2026
Y'all! If you want to enjoy this series to it's fullest extent, the go listen to the Graphic Audio version of them! I wish I listened to them for the first book. Darrow is a very intriguing character. He is one of my favorites in this series so far. I like his double agent rouse. Also, DARROW IS A GOLD 😮. Did not see that coming! Good book right here.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 19, 2025
I’ve come to the conclusion that I like Pierce but Pierce doesn’t like me :|
September 3, 2025
I am (internally) sobbing at how this ended! Omggggg what a ride! 😭😭😭
October 28, 2025
Pierce Brown you better number your freaking days 😭😭😭😭😭
November 30, 2025
I am not ok
February 6, 2026
“I am the Reaper. And death is my shadow.”
May 6, 2026
Fantastic. I never thought there would be anything that made me enjoy my commute to work. That ending though...
Now the long wait for the next book from the library.
Now the long wait for the next book from the library.
July 19, 2024
“If Red rises, they have a chance to bind the worlds together.”
😭😭😭😭😭
CAN I GIVE THIS MORE THAN 5 STARS?! this was so so so good oh my god. All day I’ve thought about going home and starting the next book. HOLY HELL. If anyone needs a push to read this series I’m telling you DO IT.
Songs:
Everybody’s watching- the neighborhood
😭😭😭😭😭
CAN I GIVE THIS MORE THAN 5 STARS?! this was so so so good oh my god. All day I’ve thought about going home and starting the next book. HOLY HELL. If anyone needs a push to read this series I’m telling you DO IT.
Songs:
Everybody’s watching- the neighborhood
September 13, 2025
I’m left flabbergasted and clutching my pearls.
January 18, 2026
These books would be top tier if there was a little bit more romance. Couldn’t stop listening to the graphic audio- 20 hrs flew by.
Read
May 11, 2026IRON RAIN
Ares
RAGNAAAAAAR
Ares
RAGNAAAAAAR
March 19, 2026
Most common thing I said while reading “You’re doing what now Darrow?!?!”
Amazing and insanity the entire time and I loved it. I NEED to know what happens next omg
Amazing and insanity the entire time and I loved it. I NEED to know what happens next omg
March 9, 2026
I finished the book yesterday but needed time to process.
That ending.
What the actual f 🤯
Part of me sooo wanted Mustang to stay. Another part of me just knew that she couldn’t. 😭
And… Roque??? I feel so betrayed! I wasn’t really of fan of him but I had faith. I guess I deeply misunderstood him 🥲
I got started with the 3rd book today already as I’m writing this review, because I couldn’t just not KNOW what happens next. I feel slightly better. This series is so good 😭
That ending.
What the actual f 🤯
Part of me sooo wanted Mustang to stay. Another part of me just knew that she couldn’t. 😭
And… Roque??? I feel so betrayed! I wasn’t really of fan of him but I had faith. I guess I deeply misunderstood him 🥲
I got started with the 3rd book today already as I’m writing this review, because I couldn’t just not KNOW what happens next. I feel slightly better. This series is so good 😭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 29, 2025
Things are definitely hitting their stride with this instalment, to the point where so much has happened I'm struggling to remember it all! Nevertheless, the pacing, plot and character arcs had me almost completely absorbed throughout, with the rollercoaster of emotions leaving me desperate to see what's next!
The complexity and layering of the story is something that really starts to stand out in this instalment. This pulls the reader into Darrow's heart and headspace; wanting desperately to believe in the core goodness of people while still being shaped by his experiences as a red at the hands of Golds, never being 100% sure who to trust, who is loyal to who and what revalations may tip your perceptions on its axis. And while you get the little moments of foreshadowing that come with Darrow's noticing something in the periferary and dismissing it, ultimately the structure maintains its integrity and you get to experience the myriad of twists and turns feeling as he feels, which adds so much to the tension and stakes of the piece. Conversely though, it does mean that you are expected to 'know' all that Darrow does, so if, like me, your focus did slip for a moment in a previous book, or you haven't managed to absorb every facet of the structure of The Society that has been presented to date, there is a lot of leeway for confusion and feeling somewhat lost.
Each and every one of Darrow's relationships in this book hits like a hammer. It's a glorious medley of heart-warming moments that bond two people together in ways that feel unbreakable, interspersed with the agony of relationships crashing and burning, the sting of betrayal and irreconcilable loss. As a man, Darrow seems to become more emotionally mature and aware here, and yet he still seems to retain some elements of naivete that his cohort are all in this for the greater good. I will say though that the repeated depictions of his emotional vulnerability - this 7ft tall Adonis being given the page time to break, cry and feel - are masterfully done, and are a great illustration that emotion does not necessarily make you weak.
I will say that I did find certain 'set pieces' of the book felt a bit rushed, and other moments were perhaps drawn out a little too long, but ultimately these cancel eachother out, so it didn't impact my experience too much. I'm not generally one for enjoying the 'nitty gritty' of a battle scene, but while I can easily picture these moments taking place on a big screen, occasionally it felt like there were too many players in focus, and again I found it quite easy to get lost regarding exactly who was who and why they were important.
As a result, I keep coming back to the dilemma of whether I should continue to listen to the Graphic Audio versions of this series, or switch to eyeball reading. The audio version is, as always, an absolute delight to listen to; the actors are amazing and I'm certain that I would not feel the same amounts of every emotion I've felt if I were reading the physical book - the performances allow me to connect to the characters on a more visceral level and I wouldn't want to lose that. But equally I think the story would probably be easier to follow and digest in the form of the written word.
Ultimately though, the book is tantalising in its unpredictability, and the ending is one hell of an emotional clusterf*ck. I'm taking a couple of days to try and psyche myself up for the turmoil I'm sure is due to follow before I start tge next instalment, but I am completely sold on the premise and will absolutely be seeing this series through to a conclusion.
The complexity and layering of the story is something that really starts to stand out in this instalment. This pulls the reader into Darrow's heart and headspace; wanting desperately to believe in the core goodness of people while still being shaped by his experiences as a red at the hands of Golds, never being 100% sure who to trust, who is loyal to who and what revalations may tip your perceptions on its axis. And while you get the little moments of foreshadowing that come with Darrow's noticing something in the periferary and dismissing it, ultimately the structure maintains its integrity and you get to experience the myriad of twists and turns feeling as he feels, which adds so much to the tension and stakes of the piece. Conversely though, it does mean that you are expected to 'know' all that Darrow does, so if, like me, your focus did slip for a moment in a previous book, or you haven't managed to absorb every facet of the structure of The Society that has been presented to date, there is a lot of leeway for confusion and feeling somewhat lost.
Each and every one of Darrow's relationships in this book hits like a hammer. It's a glorious medley of heart-warming moments that bond two people together in ways that feel unbreakable, interspersed with the agony of relationships crashing and burning, the sting of betrayal and irreconcilable loss. As a man, Darrow seems to become more emotionally mature and aware here, and yet he still seems to retain some elements of naivete that his cohort are all in this for the greater good. I will say though that the repeated depictions of his emotional vulnerability - this 7ft tall Adonis being given the page time to break, cry and feel - are masterfully done, and are a great illustration that emotion does not necessarily make you weak.
I will say that I did find certain 'set pieces' of the book felt a bit rushed, and other moments were perhaps drawn out a little too long, but ultimately these cancel eachother out, so it didn't impact my experience too much. I'm not generally one for enjoying the 'nitty gritty' of a battle scene, but while I can easily picture these moments taking place on a big screen, occasionally it felt like there were too many players in focus, and again I found it quite easy to get lost regarding exactly who was who and why they were important.
As a result, I keep coming back to the dilemma of whether I should continue to listen to the Graphic Audio versions of this series, or switch to eyeball reading. The audio version is, as always, an absolute delight to listen to; the actors are amazing and I'm certain that I would not feel the same amounts of every emotion I've felt if I were reading the physical book - the performances allow me to connect to the characters on a more visceral level and I wouldn't want to lose that. But equally I think the story would probably be easier to follow and digest in the form of the written word.
Ultimately though, the book is tantalising in its unpredictability, and the ending is one hell of an emotional clusterf*ck. I'm taking a couple of days to try and psyche myself up for the turmoil I'm sure is due to follow before I start tge next instalment, but I am completely sold on the premise and will absolutely be seeing this series through to a conclusion.
February 1, 2025
There is no amount of soothing that can help my broken heart. That ending gutted me and left me for dead, just like some of the best characters in this story. Some of my favorites gone, their fates sealed and my soul QUAKES with sadness.
I get it, it's a fantasy book, none of this is real but the emotional damage and connection I have to these characters is so real. I'm in shambles.
Here's a play by play, this was both the best and the worst story of my life. Everything in this part of the book stressed me out. My anxiety through the roof, every single character just so much at stake and so much to worry about.
It's so overwhelming to think of how far Darrow and all the characters have come since the first book. Literally SO MUCH to swallow. Fantasy books do not play, but add in the dystopia factors of this world?? Cut me into pieces it would hurt less than the pain of the impeccable worldbuilding in this book.
I am in pure distress even after finishing this book a few hours ago. So empty inside. Character flaws go so fucking hard in this book, like are these real people?? They're so complex and dynamic and some are so sinister, vile, and wicked. There are kind, foolish, and loving people as well but wow. I have never felt so betrayed in a book in so long.
That ending was not what I deserved. I feel like so much could have gone wrong and it was far worse than I could've ever imagined.
A standing ovation to Pierce Brown for making me feel this sickened. I could sometimes tell where this story was going and I hated to see it go where I knew it would. So much sadness, pain, and loss.
When things are going well in a fantasy book, but there's still 3 chapters left until the ending? Yeah be scared. I know I was, rightfully so.
Anyways in line with the full cast performance of this audiobook: once again such a brilliant experience hearing this as a graphic audiobook. I love hearing the returning voice actors from the first book come back. Some of the notable monologues i loved included Tactus' speech to Darrow. Darrow's many monologues throughout the unrest and the little snide comments of Sevro.
Also, may I just add. Loyalty is so hard to find and the way this book would build this false hope in my heart just to tear it to shreds. I'm in actual pain thinking of this. I need a palette cleanser book, but at the rate I'm going? I'm just gonna have to pick up the next book.
Ad astra per aspera, from hardships to the stars. I wish you safe passage through the veil, every hope I had for Darrow's fight. So much stress.
Read this book and let's mourn what could've been together.
TW: main character death
I get it, it's a fantasy book, none of this is real but the emotional damage and connection I have to these characters is so real. I'm in shambles.
Here's a play by play, this was both the best and the worst story of my life. Everything in this part of the book stressed me out. My anxiety through the roof, every single character just so much at stake and so much to worry about.
It's so overwhelming to think of how far Darrow and all the characters have come since the first book. Literally SO MUCH to swallow. Fantasy books do not play, but add in the dystopia factors of this world?? Cut me into pieces it would hurt less than the pain of the impeccable worldbuilding in this book.
I am in pure distress even after finishing this book a few hours ago. So empty inside. Character flaws go so fucking hard in this book, like are these real people?? They're so complex and dynamic and some are so sinister, vile, and wicked. There are kind, foolish, and loving people as well but wow. I have never felt so betrayed in a book in so long.
That ending was not what I deserved. I feel like so much could have gone wrong and it was far worse than I could've ever imagined.
A standing ovation to Pierce Brown for making me feel this sickened. I could sometimes tell where this story was going and I hated to see it go where I knew it would. So much sadness, pain, and loss.
When things are going well in a fantasy book, but there's still 3 chapters left until the ending? Yeah be scared. I know I was, rightfully so.
Anyways in line with the full cast performance of this audiobook: once again such a brilliant experience hearing this as a graphic audiobook. I love hearing the returning voice actors from the first book come back. Some of the notable monologues i loved included Tactus' speech to Darrow. Darrow's many monologues throughout the unrest and the little snide comments of Sevro.
Also, may I just add. Loyalty is so hard to find and the way this book would build this false hope in my heart just to tear it to shreds. I'm in actual pain thinking of this. I need a palette cleanser book, but at the rate I'm going? I'm just gonna have to pick up the next book.
Ad astra per aspera, from hardships to the stars. I wish you safe passage through the veil, every hope I had for Darrow's fight. So much stress.
Read this book and let's mourn what could've been together.
TW: main character death
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2025
Golden Son, the second installment in Pierce Brown's Red Rising trilogy, delivers a clear and compelling narrative that builds upon the foundation of the first book with sharp focus and high emotional stakes. The Audible edition, narrated brilliantly by Tim Gerard Reynolds, brings the vivid world and intense character dynamics to life with clarity and energy.
What stands out most is how well-structured and concise the story is. Despite its complex political intrigue and fast-paced action, the plot never feels bloated or confusing. Brown maintains tight storytelling throughout, guiding listeners through shocking betrayals, strategic alliances, and moments of introspection that deepen our understanding of Darrow and his struggle.
While Golden Son functions as a powerful climax in its own right, it also serves as a satisfying bridge to the larger saga. It ties up key arcs from the trilogy while leaving just enough unresolved to spark excitement for what's to come. By the end, I found myself eager to dive into the future books, curious to see how the loose threads will unravel.
Overall, Golden Son is a masterful continuation of the series—clear, concise, and emotionally gripping. It’s a must-listen for fans of epic sci-fi with heart and ambition.
What stands out most is how well-structured and concise the story is. Despite its complex political intrigue and fast-paced action, the plot never feels bloated or confusing. Brown maintains tight storytelling throughout, guiding listeners through shocking betrayals, strategic alliances, and moments of introspection that deepen our understanding of Darrow and his struggle.
While Golden Son functions as a powerful climax in its own right, it also serves as a satisfying bridge to the larger saga. It ties up key arcs from the trilogy while leaving just enough unresolved to spark excitement for what's to come. By the end, I found myself eager to dive into the future books, curious to see how the loose threads will unravel.
Overall, Golden Son is a masterful continuation of the series—clear, concise, and emotionally gripping. It’s a must-listen for fans of epic sci-fi with heart and ambition.
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