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The Marked: Crimson Rising
A Mark that seals your fate. A choice that could ignite a revolution.
At seventeen, Elia Dareth has already outlived expectation. Crimson Marked at thirteen—a death sentence stamped into her skin—she’s been told her violent end is inevitable. The Dominion tracks her every move, reminding her that survival is only borrowed time.
But when rebellion sparks in the shadows, Elia is drawn into a dangerous world of secrets, betrayal, and forbidden alliances. Among them is Cassian, a rebel leader sworn to destroy everything the Dominion stands for—even if it means silencing Elia forever.
As fractured cities rise, councils defy orders, and the truth behind the Marks begins to unravel, Elia must accept the fate written on her wrist, or risk everything to prove that destiny can be rewritten.
The Crimson Rising is a gripping YA dystopian fantasy perfect for fans of The Hunger Games, Divergent, and Twilight. Prepare for a story of rebellion, romance, and the fight to claim a future that was never meant to exist.
At seventeen, Elia Dareth has already outlived expectation. Crimson Marked at thirteen—a death sentence stamped into her skin—she’s been told her violent end is inevitable. The Dominion tracks her every move, reminding her that survival is only borrowed time.
But when rebellion sparks in the shadows, Elia is drawn into a dangerous world of secrets, betrayal, and forbidden alliances. Among them is Cassian, a rebel leader sworn to destroy everything the Dominion stands for—even if it means silencing Elia forever.
As fractured cities rise, councils defy orders, and the truth behind the Marks begins to unravel, Elia must accept the fate written on her wrist, or risk everything to prove that destiny can be rewritten.
The Crimson Rising is a gripping YA dystopian fantasy perfect for fans of The Hunger Games, Divergent, and Twilight. Prepare for a story of rebellion, romance, and the fight to claim a future that was never meant to exist.
165 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 3, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
November 24, 2025
A punchy, sharp YA dystopian parable
The Marked, Crimson Rising is a shorter read, a little longer than novella length, but it manages to convey so much despite its shorter format. Elia's doubts and fears, her growth and maturation all feel real and hard-won. The author's writing style favors short, punchy sentences and crisp dialogue. The story is populated by people who have had to fight for every small freedom they have, so economy of action and speech felt right. You won't find flowery descriptions or purple prose within these pages, but rather a verbal sucker-punch that leaves you thinking over your own choices and questioning authority in all its forms.
What do you do when the government's algorithm predicts your violent death within the next six years? How do you survive, let alone actually live, with the weight of such a proclamation? For Elia, it's a tightrope walk she has managed to maintain now for four years, ever since the Dominion marked her at 13. But something has shifted and the Dominion is now coming for her. She's dangerous in a way no one, let alone Elia herself, understands or could predict. Once the Rebels get their hands on her, Elia must decide if she'll continue to have her life and actions dictated for her, or if she will finally take a stand for individuality and choice. Will she allow herself to become another instrument of control by the Dominion? Or one of prophecy by the Rebellion? Or will she choose another path, one wholly unforseen, unpredictable, and uncontrollable?
When I first started reading, I wanted to know more... background on the world, the Dominion, how things got this way. But by the end I realized those things didn't matter. What mattered was how Elia chose to react to it. To quote a line from the book "Fear’s always easier than freedom.” Are you brave enough to see what comes next?
The Marked, Crimson Rising is a shorter read, a little longer than novella length, but it manages to convey so much despite its shorter format. Elia's doubts and fears, her growth and maturation all feel real and hard-won. The author's writing style favors short, punchy sentences and crisp dialogue. The story is populated by people who have had to fight for every small freedom they have, so economy of action and speech felt right. You won't find flowery descriptions or purple prose within these pages, but rather a verbal sucker-punch that leaves you thinking over your own choices and questioning authority in all its forms.
What do you do when the government's algorithm predicts your violent death within the next six years? How do you survive, let alone actually live, with the weight of such a proclamation? For Elia, it's a tightrope walk she has managed to maintain now for four years, ever since the Dominion marked her at 13. But something has shifted and the Dominion is now coming for her. She's dangerous in a way no one, let alone Elia herself, understands or could predict. Once the Rebels get their hands on her, Elia must decide if she'll continue to have her life and actions dictated for her, or if she will finally take a stand for individuality and choice. Will she allow herself to become another instrument of control by the Dominion? Or one of prophecy by the Rebellion? Or will she choose another path, one wholly unforseen, unpredictable, and uncontrollable?
When I first started reading, I wanted to know more... background on the world, the Dominion, how things got this way. But by the end I realized those things didn't matter. What mattered was how Elia chose to react to it. To quote a line from the book "Fear’s always easier than freedom.” Are you brave enough to see what comes next?
January 8, 2026
A Generally Engaging Story
From the first page of this dystopian novel, I was engaged by the almost poetic flow of the writing. As the story unfolded, I was drawn to the main character and her fight for a future despite the crimson color of a brand burned into her wrist which foretold of and early and violent death. I was drawn to the illusive Caisson and found his betrayal a refreshing part of the novel’s originality in the aspect of it being a romance. On reflecting after I finished reading, I did enjoy this novel and its theme of having a choice in the future. For this reason, I gave the book a four-star rating.
However, there were a few aspects of the novel I felt had to knock off that final star. The first, though not to do with the story, was the large gaps between the paragraphs of the eBook. I think I get why they are there but feel the author should know that the quick and constant need to turn the page is a detriment to the reader’s comfort while reading.
Second, I felt the novel was a little rushed. I will be vague to not give too much away, but I got why the main character and others who were ‘crimson’ found solace in the ‘solution’ at the end of the novel, but to me, there wasn’t enough time spent on why the other people of her society should also ‘feel’ her message. I’m left wondering, what was so horrible about the lives of the other colors? Throughout the novel, it is mentioned that the color codes were a controlling device, but if life is good for those who are not Crimson, would ‘being controlled’ warrant rising up in anger. I didn’t feel it, and consequently, I was left unconvinced by the result of the novel. In a way, I felt like the author expected readers to use their knowledge of what life was like in other, similar stories, and transfer it to this one as they read. In fact, since I was able to do this, I did enjoy this book.
From the first page of this dystopian novel, I was engaged by the almost poetic flow of the writing. As the story unfolded, I was drawn to the main character and her fight for a future despite the crimson color of a brand burned into her wrist which foretold of and early and violent death. I was drawn to the illusive Caisson and found his betrayal a refreshing part of the novel’s originality in the aspect of it being a romance. On reflecting after I finished reading, I did enjoy this novel and its theme of having a choice in the future. For this reason, I gave the book a four-star rating.
However, there were a few aspects of the novel I felt had to knock off that final star. The first, though not to do with the story, was the large gaps between the paragraphs of the eBook. I think I get why they are there but feel the author should know that the quick and constant need to turn the page is a detriment to the reader’s comfort while reading.
Second, I felt the novel was a little rushed. I will be vague to not give too much away, but I got why the main character and others who were ‘crimson’ found solace in the ‘solution’ at the end of the novel, but to me, there wasn’t enough time spent on why the other people of her society should also ‘feel’ her message. I’m left wondering, what was so horrible about the lives of the other colors? Throughout the novel, it is mentioned that the color codes were a controlling device, but if life is good for those who are not Crimson, would ‘being controlled’ warrant rising up in anger. I didn’t feel it, and consequently, I was left unconvinced by the result of the novel. In a way, I felt like the author expected readers to use their knowledge of what life was like in other, similar stories, and transfer it to this one as they read. In fact, since I was able to do this, I did enjoy this book.
October 13, 2025
The Marked: Crimson Rising is an interesting dystopian story centering on Elia Dareth. At age 13, a crimson mark is placed on Elia's wrist, a "predictive identifier" from the Dominion that she'll die a violent death before the age of 19.
The mark has haunted Elia's life since then, in a world already filled with fear, control and constant electronic monitoring.
The Marked: Crimson Rising seems somewhat derivative of several books and movies. Examples brought to mind while reading include: Logan's Run, Minority Report, the Divergent book series, Fahrenheit 451, 1984, and in some ways, the Hunger Games books.
The writing varies quite a bit, at times being lyrical verse/free verse poetry, then almost staccato, then more standard narrative. The style is first person present with what feels like an omniscient narrator.
Repetition was noted in the novel along with some story continuity concerns. For example, when Alia returns at one point, she's accused of abandoning the group. In reality she was trapped and the others left HER behind. In another case, the timing is shown as five years since she was marked, but she's described as seventeen and a month past her birthday. Either she's eighteen, or it's been four years since she was marked. Another concern is that while Alia seems close to her aunt, her only remaining family, there's appears to be no mention or thought about the aunt after approximately page 70 on Kindle.
Enhancing the formatting, with more space between block paragraphs, would improve readability.
Despite the concerns noted in The Marked: Crimson Rising, I enjoyed the novel.
The mark has haunted Elia's life since then, in a world already filled with fear, control and constant electronic monitoring.
The Marked: Crimson Rising seems somewhat derivative of several books and movies. Examples brought to mind while reading include: Logan's Run, Minority Report, the Divergent book series, Fahrenheit 451, 1984, and in some ways, the Hunger Games books.
The writing varies quite a bit, at times being lyrical verse/free verse poetry, then almost staccato, then more standard narrative. The style is first person present with what feels like an omniscient narrator.
Repetition was noted in the novel along with some story continuity concerns. For example, when Alia returns at one point, she's accused of abandoning the group. In reality she was trapped and the others left HER behind. In another case, the timing is shown as five years since she was marked, but she's described as seventeen and a month past her birthday. Either she's eighteen, or it's been four years since she was marked. Another concern is that while Alia seems close to her aunt, her only remaining family, there's appears to be no mention or thought about the aunt after approximately page 70 on Kindle.
Enhancing the formatting, with more space between block paragraphs, would improve readability.
Despite the concerns noted in The Marked: Crimson Rising, I enjoyed the novel.
October 18, 2025
Olivia Troy crafts a propulsive dystopian thriller centered on Elia Dareth, branded at thirteen with a Crimson Mark foretelling her violent death under the totalitarian surveillance of the Dominion. When rebellion erupts, Elia entangles with the mysterious Cassian and the leadership of the rebels whose goals may require her silence.
Troy demonstrates a steady and competent hand. The pacing is strong, favoring action and visceral scenes over exposition. The prose occasionally veers into overwrought YA territory, so your tolerance for heightened emotion will determine your enjoyment. Couple of minor bones to pick – the “Chosen One” trope was a little grating, and the romance element feels half-baked, shoehorned into the narrative as an afterthought. After a good build-up, the ending is something of a letdown. It felt abrupt and the resolutions far too convenient. The story's strengths largely compensate.
While the title and premise echo Pierce Brown's "Red Rising," Troy establishes enough originality to avoid feeling derivative. A solid entry for readers seeking action-driven dystopia with the familiar themes of rebellion and rewriting destiny.
Troy demonstrates a steady and competent hand. The pacing is strong, favoring action and visceral scenes over exposition. The prose occasionally veers into overwrought YA territory, so your tolerance for heightened emotion will determine your enjoyment. Couple of minor bones to pick – the “Chosen One” trope was a little grating, and the romance element feels half-baked, shoehorned into the narrative as an afterthought. After a good build-up, the ending is something of a letdown. It felt abrupt and the resolutions far too convenient. The story's strengths largely compensate.
While the title and premise echo Pierce Brown's "Red Rising," Troy establishes enough originality to avoid feeling derivative. A solid entry for readers seeking action-driven dystopia with the familiar themes of rebellion and rewriting destiny.
October 15, 2025
Ella Pareth wants to be herself away from horrible dominions oppressive control and surveillance. A crimson on her wrist with a fate of violent death at age 19, like the brutality in The Hunger Games, and a fate of scrutiny and control. There is biometric scanners properly cataloged for aggression. These Dominions see Ella as a threat as they fear Choice the most. She is unreadable and unpredictable. A glitch that unravels their God. Rebels think she is a weapon that could misfire. Ella is not marked to die. Break death as they defined it. She’s taken away to a safe house off-grid.in the forest, because she is considered to be an anomaly and unpredictable. She can’t be pinned down. She was a glitch in their algorithm chain. She wrecks their centering, as she cannot be predicted. From book- Don’t let them write your story for you. Many fear those they don’t understand- even from a young girl.
October 18, 2025
The Marked: Crimson Rising is a book with a lot of potential. It has the Hunger Game vibe with a teen as the protagonist fighting to bring the authority down.
The marked concept itself is interesting. Every kid would be assigned a color based on how predictable they are according to the algorithm, and then they would be treated accordingly. Crimson, which is what the protagonist is assigned to, is the worst color which means the bearer would die before nineteen. A curse. Or that is what everyone was taught.
The world building is done well, and there are many interesting characters. Unfortunately, I think this needs to be a thicker book. Everything feels too fast and short, the sequence of events become less belivable as the result, especially when the trope is the chosen one.
Imho, if the readers have the opportunity to immerse into the world more, and the growth of the characters are more fleshed out, this could be a powerful dystopian book with intriguing ideas.
October 23, 2025
“The Marked: Crimson Rising” by Olivia Troy is a teen/YA dystopian fantasy set in a world ruled by The Dominion, where fates are decreed by a mark left upon one’s wrist: green for longevity, amber for note, blue for service, and crimson for violence. Everyone lives under constant surveillance and strict control; no free thought, expression, or behavior is tolerated. People are encouraged to spy upon each other and report any deviant behavior to the government. 17-year-old Elia bears the crimson mark, indicating she will meet a violent end before she reaches her nineteenth birthday. One day she is stopped for a “routine check”, the likes of which have resulted in many past disappearances. But a stranger interferes, a mysterious man named Cassian with a raven tattoo on his neck. He tells Elia to come with him if she wants to live. This is a quick read with a swift pace and skilful writing.
October 29, 2025
This gives you a classic YA setup with enough freshness to keep it from feeling recycled. Elia is already living past her expiration date, which makes every decision loaded before the plot even moves. The world is oppressive without over-explaining itself, and the mark system gives the story a clear moral fault line. When the rebellion slips in the stakes rise fast, and the tension between being hunted and being recruited works well.
Cassian is the expected threat ally, but is handled with restraint so it does not collapse into instant romance. The question of whether he will protect her or eliminate her keeps their scenes charged. The reveals surrounding the Marks arrive in a way that expands the world instead of dumping lore.
If you want a fast YA dystopian read with high stakes, government control, forbidden alliance, and a heroine pushed into choosing between surrender and revolt, this one hits the beats cleanly and with energy.
Cassian is the expected threat ally, but is handled with restraint so it does not collapse into instant romance. The question of whether he will protect her or eliminate her keeps their scenes charged. The reveals surrounding the Marks arrive in a way that expands the world instead of dumping lore.
If you want a fast YA dystopian read with high stakes, government control, forbidden alliance, and a heroine pushed into choosing between surrender and revolt, this one hits the beats cleanly and with energy.
January 8, 2026
a must read
This book is a quick read—you can finish it in under two hours—but it delivers a surprising amount of emotion and depth for its length. The story grabs you right away with its idea: in this world, a computer program predicts violent deaths. The heroine, a teenage girl, is assigned the color red and told she will die before she’s nineteen, all before she even has a chance to figure out who she is as a person. What really stood out to me wasn’t just the dark future setting, but Elia’s personal struggle with fear, choice, and identity. Her growth feels real and well-earned. The writing is sharp and direct, focusing on action and emotion instead of heavy worldbuilding, which matches the story’s constant tension. If you like dystopian stories that are more about making your own choices and standing up for yourself than just fighting the system, I definitely recommend this one.
This book is a quick read—you can finish it in under two hours—but it delivers a surprising amount of emotion and depth for its length. The story grabs you right away with its idea: in this world, a computer program predicts violent deaths. The heroine, a teenage girl, is assigned the color red and told she will die before she’s nineteen, all before she even has a chance to figure out who she is as a person. What really stood out to me wasn’t just the dark future setting, but Elia’s personal struggle with fear, choice, and identity. Her growth feels real and well-earned. The writing is sharp and direct, focusing on action and emotion instead of heavy worldbuilding, which matches the story’s constant tension. If you like dystopian stories that are more about making your own choices and standing up for yourself than just fighting the system, I definitely recommend this one.
November 1, 2025
A dark thrilling ride
Olivia Troy’s dystopian tale of a society under Dominion rule that controls its citizens and their fate by marking their wrists with green, amber, blue or crimson at age 13, pulled me in from the first chapter when I learned that young Elia, our protagonist, bears the feared crimson mark, which represents premature, violent death.
The adventure takes off when Cassian, the mysterious, stormy-eyed rebel soldier with a raven tattoo on his neck (giving off romantic lead vibes), saves Elia from a Dominion attack and whisks her away to his band of rebel misfits, but is he or his crew to be trusted? Guess you’ll have to read the book to find out.
This book is for you if you enjoy fast-moving tales of rebellion against Big Brother-like leaders, with a feisty young heroine swept up into the mix. It’s a quick, exciting read.
Olivia Troy’s dystopian tale of a society under Dominion rule that controls its citizens and their fate by marking their wrists with green, amber, blue or crimson at age 13, pulled me in from the first chapter when I learned that young Elia, our protagonist, bears the feared crimson mark, which represents premature, violent death.
The adventure takes off when Cassian, the mysterious, stormy-eyed rebel soldier with a raven tattoo on his neck (giving off romantic lead vibes), saves Elia from a Dominion attack and whisks her away to his band of rebel misfits, but is he or his crew to be trusted? Guess you’ll have to read the book to find out.
This book is for you if you enjoy fast-moving tales of rebellion against Big Brother-like leaders, with a feisty young heroine swept up into the mix. It’s a quick, exciting read.
October 13, 2025
The Marked: Crimson Rising crafts a tense, vividly imagined dystopian world where fate is etched onto your skin. I was captivated by Elia's desperate fight for survival under the Dominion's oppressive surveillance, with the "Crimson Marked" concept adding layers of tension and symbolism. The narrative races forward, brimming with rebellion, hidden truths, and a hint of forbidden romance. Though the premise draws from familiar tropes in series like Divergent and The Hunger Games, Troye's quick pacing and immersive world-building held my attention. Some dialogue felt repetitive, the writing style fluctuated, and the plot's predictability softened a few twists, but it's ultimately a well-crafted, emotionally resonant story. A strong pick for YA dystopia enthusiasts.
October 25, 2025
For me, The Marked: Crimson Rising lies somewhere between story and episodic stream of consciousness, or perhaps narrative poetry. It's occasionally repetitive, especially in Elia's realizations. Aspects of the book are reminiscent of other dystopian stories, but with some unique twists and setup. The focus seems less on how something happens and more on the meaning of it.
Else's personal journey is primary, and then how that impacts her world. Instead of world building, the reader gets brief glimpses of a repressive system and its society. This is almost a metaphorical narrative about fate, choice and freedom, which is meaningful for daily life. The triumphant Elia learns not to live like a victim, which is vital for everyone.
Else's personal journey is primary, and then how that impacts her world. Instead of world building, the reader gets brief glimpses of a repressive system and its society. This is almost a metaphorical narrative about fate, choice and freedom, which is meaningful for daily life. The triumphant Elia learns not to live like a victim, which is vital for everyone.
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December 25, 2025Hopes and Tropes
“I’m just a girl. I just want to survive.”
But we know she isn’t. She’s the chosen, the catalyst who might help break the big dystopian brother who runs the show. And of course, she meets a hot guy who saves her life (he comes across at first as cold, because why wouldn’t he?). There’s unfortunately nothing new in this book. However, the prose has youthful energy and momentum, and the story contains some interesting imagery. The author might yet break free of tropes and grow into herself.
PLEASE get this kindle formatted right! I don’t know why so many self-pubbed authors won’t take the time to hire someone to properly format their kindle books, but there it is.
“I’m just a girl. I just want to survive.”
But we know she isn’t. She’s the chosen, the catalyst who might help break the big dystopian brother who runs the show. And of course, she meets a hot guy who saves her life (he comes across at first as cold, because why wouldn’t he?). There’s unfortunately nothing new in this book. However, the prose has youthful energy and momentum, and the story contains some interesting imagery. The author might yet break free of tropes and grow into herself.
PLEASE get this kindle formatted right! I don’t know why so many self-pubbed authors won’t take the time to hire someone to properly format their kindle books, but there it is.
December 25, 2025
“I’m just a girl. I just want to survive.”
But we know she isn’t. She’s the chosen, the catalyst who might help break the big dystopian brother who runs the show. And of course, she meets a hot guy who saves her life (he comes across at first as cold, because why wouldn’t he?). There’s unfortunately nothing new in this book. However, the prose has youthful energy and momentum, and the story contains some interesting imagery. The author might yet break free of the tropes and grow into herself.
PLEASE get this kindle formatted right! I don’t know why so many self-pubbed authors won’t take the time to hire someone to properly format their kindle books, but there it is.
But we know she isn’t. She’s the chosen, the catalyst who might help break the big dystopian brother who runs the show. And of course, she meets a hot guy who saves her life (he comes across at first as cold, because why wouldn’t he?). There’s unfortunately nothing new in this book. However, the prose has youthful energy and momentum, and the story contains some interesting imagery. The author might yet break free of the tropes and grow into herself.
PLEASE get this kindle formatted right! I don’t know why so many self-pubbed authors won’t take the time to hire someone to properly format their kindle books, but there it is.
October 7, 2025
The world building in this dystopian novel is brilliant. The tension is palpable. You have marks that determine destiny. You have an overseeing, big-brother-like, presence called The Dominion. You have people scans looking for irregularities and drones that monitor people. And, of course, there are whispers of rebels. You are immediately immersed in the MC’s perspective. This was done so well that I felt locked in. Overall, this is a brilliant dystopian book. It will work well for lovers of books like The Handmaid’s Tale and 1984.
October 8, 2025
It is, as the description says, a mashup between Twilight, Divergent and the Hunger Games.
The concept is not bad, just not the most original. A few things that put me off were certain dialogues that seemed to be repeated and the fact that, although the story is told in first person, we know things before the narrator does, like Cassian's name, among other examples, which made me wonder if it was a massive oversight on the author's side or if the book was AI generated (in which case I would have wanted to know)
The concept is not bad, just not the most original. A few things that put me off were certain dialogues that seemed to be repeated and the fact that, although the story is told in first person, we know things before the narrator does, like Cassian's name, among other examples, which made me wonder if it was a massive oversight on the author's side or if the book was AI generated (in which case I would have wanted to know)
October 14, 2025
So, I checked out The Marked: Crimson Rising because I like romances that have a bit of intensity, and this one definitely had that. The chemistry between the main characters is strong, and their struggles with trust and past trauma made it feel more real than a typical love story. There were a few parts I wished were explored more, especially with some of the side characters. The pacing is solid and the emotional moments stick with you. Overall, a good read that I really enjoyed. Hopefully there will be a sequel as I really did enjoy this book.
October 31, 2025
I couldn’t put this book down! Elia is such a strong, brave character. You really feel her struggle as she fights against a world that’s already decided her fate. The story has everything: rebellion, danger, romance, and big twists that keep you guessing.
Cassian is mysterious and complicated, and their connection adds real depth to the story. The world-building is amazing; dark, tense, and full of secrets. It reminded me of *The Hunger Games*, but with its own unique magic. If you love YA fantasy with emotion, courage, and hope, this book is a must-read.
Cassian is mysterious and complicated, and their connection adds real depth to the story. The world-building is amazing; dark, tense, and full of secrets. It reminded me of *The Hunger Games*, but with its own unique magic. If you love YA fantasy with emotion, courage, and hope, this book is a must-read.
November 25, 2025
Gripping and Fast-Paced YA Dystopian
The Marked: Crimson Rising is an intense and engaging read. Elia’s fight against a fate branded into her skin is emotional and compelling, and the world of the Dominion and the rebellion is easy to get pulled into. The tension with Cassian adds just the right amount of spark, and the constant twists keep the story moving.
I did wish for a bit more depth in some of the worldbuilding, but overall this is a strong, exciting dystopian story with high stakes and a heroine worth cheering for. Great for fans of The Hunger Games and Divergent.
The Marked: Crimson Rising is an intense and engaging read. Elia’s fight against a fate branded into her skin is emotional and compelling, and the world of the Dominion and the rebellion is easy to get pulled into. The tension with Cassian adds just the right amount of spark, and the constant twists keep the story moving.
I did wish for a bit more depth in some of the worldbuilding, but overall this is a strong, exciting dystopian story with high stakes and a heroine worth cheering for. Great for fans of The Hunger Games and Divergent.
December 17, 2025
The Marked: Crimson Rising is an engaging read with a strong sense of atmosphere and momentum. Olivia Troy builds a vivid world filled with tension, mystery, and emotional undercurrents that keep you turning the pages. The story draws you in quickly, and the unfolding events hold your attention throughout.
It’s an enjoyable and immersive novel that will appeal to readers who like darker themes, layered characters, and a rising sense of intrigue. A solid and compelling installment that leaves you curious to see where the story goes next.
It’s an enjoyable and immersive novel that will appeal to readers who like darker themes, layered characters, and a rising sense of intrigue. A solid and compelling installment that leaves you curious to see where the story goes next.
January 5, 2026
Picked this up expecting something familiar, but it ended up pulling me in way more than I thought. The main character feels raw and real, not perfect, and the world around her is tense in a way that constantly keeps you on edge. Some parts felt chaotic, but honestly that worked for the story and the emotions behind it. I liked how relationships slowly shift and how nothing feels completely safe. It’s fast, dark, and emotional, and I found myself thinking about it even after putting it down. Definitely worth the read if you like intense YA stories.
October 27, 2025
Olivia Troy’s The Marked: Crimson Rising is a young adult dystopian novel. The story follows Elia Dareth and her struggle to survive against her predetermined fate. While familiar dystopian themes are used, the author’s world-building and engaging writing style make the story compelling. I believe it is an ideal choice for young adult readers who enjoy action, suspense, and character-driven dystopian stories.
December 23, 2025
A story that gives you hope!
It’s been a while since I read a book that made me enjoy the story being told. Crimson Rising was set in a future world where the color of your mark decides your fate. But when one girl decides she wanted a choice then that’s when beliefs can change. With her choice a rebellion moves forward.
A wonderful story that I’d recommend to all who love an uprising!
It’s been a while since I read a book that made me enjoy the story being told. Crimson Rising was set in a future world where the color of your mark decides your fate. But when one girl decides she wanted a choice then that’s when beliefs can change. With her choice a rebellion moves forward.
A wonderful story that I’d recommend to all who love an uprising!
October 16, 2025
This was a great read! It reminded me a bit of Hunger Games (which is good), with a twist.
I like Elia's growth thru the story, becoming confident in herself, not letting one side or the other use her.
Hoping there is another book. I want to know what happened to her parents and where they all go to from here!
I like Elia's growth thru the story, becoming confident in herself, not letting one side or the other use her.
Hoping there is another book. I want to know what happened to her parents and where they all go to from here!
October 31, 2025
Marked for Rebellion
The Marked: Crimson Rising delivers a fast-paced dystopian thrill with heart. Elia Dareth’s fight against fate and the Dominion is gripping, emotional, and full of twists. Perfect for fans of The Hunger Games and Divergent, this is a bold debut that blends rebellion, romance, and high-stakes survival.
The Marked: Crimson Rising delivers a fast-paced dystopian thrill with heart. Elia Dareth’s fight against fate and the Dominion is gripping, emotional, and full of twists. Perfect for fans of The Hunger Games and Divergent, this is a bold debut that blends rebellion, romance, and high-stakes survival.
November 1, 2025
Olivia Troy’s The Marked: Crimson Rising is a breathtaking YA dystopian adventure filled with courage, rebellion, and heart. Elia’s fight against a fate written in blood will grip readers from the first page. With vivid worldbuilding and emotional depth, this story ignites hope, love, and revolution in equal measure.
December 24, 2025
I was expecting an adventurous thriller but thorougly enjoyed a very well-written drama told in pieces that come together from chapter 6 on. The story churns with imagery, emotions, and character intellect and culminates with "Elia's Journal." Highly recommended for those who enjoy adult drama in a dystopian tale.
November 12, 2025
The Marked: Crimson Rising Kindle Edition by Olivia Troy (Author) follows Elia Dareth in the first person, who is Marked as a Crimson, something that a society that the terrorizing Dominion must deal with. It was okay to read.
December 23, 2025
The story is nice. It shows that a choice always exists, even if others have already decided for you, but you have to be the one to take the first step towards freedom even if it meant going through hard paths before rising.
The ending is lovely too.
The ending is lovely too.
October 31, 2025
Elia’s story broke my heart and lit it right back up. The writing is intense but poetic.. not what I expected from a YA fantasy, in the best way. Can’t wait for book two.
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