Best Post-Apocalyptic Books December 2024

The Host

Melanie Stryder refuses to fade away. Earth has been invaded by a species that takes over the minds of human hosts while leaving their bodies intact, and most of humanity has succumbed. Wanderer, the invading “soul” who has been given Melanie’s body, knew about the challenges of living inside a human: the overwhelming emotions, the too-vivid memories. But Wanderer didn’t expect the former tenant of her body refusing to relinquish possession of her mind. Melanie fills Wanderer’s thoughts with visions of the man she loves – Jared, a human who still lives in hiding. Unable to separate herself from her body’s desires, Wanderer yearns for a man she’s never met. As outside forces make Wanderer and Melanie unwilling allies, they set off to search for the man they both love.

War Storm

In this electrifying finale to the Red Queen series, Mare Barrow faces her ultimate challenge. As allegiances shift and power dynamics crumble, she must navigate a web of deception and betrayal. Aveyard’s vivid prose brings the world of Norta to life, painting a landscape of political intrigue and heart-pounding action. I found myself holding my breath during the intense battle scenes, feeling every triumph and setback alongside Mare. It’s a bittersweet journey that left me both satisfied and longing for more.

Glass Sword

Mare Barrow’s blood is red, but her Silver ability has turned her into a weapon the royal court tries to control. Pursued by the vengeful Silver king, Mare sets out to find and recruit other Red-and-Silver fighters to join the rebellion. But Mare finds herself on a deadly path, at risk of becoming exactly the kind of monster she’s trying to defeat. Will she shatter under the weight of the lives that are the cost of rebellion? Or have treachery and betrayal hardened her forever?

The Hero of Ages

Elend Venture’s reign as emperor faces its greatest challenge as the mists grow deadlier, threatening all life. Vin, the Mistborn heroine, grapples with her powers and destiny. As the world teeters on the brink, the crew must unravel ancient prophecies and confront the sinister force behind the mists. Sanderson’s masterful conclusion to the Mistborn trilogy weaves intricate magic, political intrigue, and heart-wrenching sacrifices into an epic tale that left me breathless until the very last page.

The 5th Wave

Cassie Sullivan’s world shatters when the Others arrive. Waves of destruction decimate humanity, leaving her alone and desperate to find her little brother. Trust becomes a luxury she can’t afford. As she navigates a treacherous landscape, Cassie clings to a promise made to Sammy. Along the way, she encounters Evan Walker, mysterious and alluring. Is he friend or foe? In a world where nothing is as it seems, Cassie must unravel the truth to survive. Yancey’s gripping tale of alien invasion will keep you on edge, questioning everything you thought you knew about humanity and survival.

Calamity

Calamity gripped me from the first page, plunging me into a world where superheroes are the villains. Sanderson’s masterful storytelling had me rooting for David, a regular guy with an extraordinary mission. The twists kept me guessing, and I found myself staying up way too late, unable to put it down. It’s a thrilling ride that blends sci-fi and action seamlessly, leaving me eager for more. A must-read for anyone who loves a fresh take on the superhero genre.

Firefight

David’s world turned upside down when he discovered his power to create illusions. Now, as a Reckoner fighting against the tyrannical Epics, he’s thrust into a dangerous mission in Babylon Restored. Amidst the neon-lit, flooded ruins of Manhattan, David grapples with his growing feelings for Megan and the true nature of his abilities. As he uncovers shocking secrets about the Epics, he questions everything he thought he knew. Sanderson’s electrifying sequel keeps you on the edge of your seat, blending superhuman action with heart-wrenching dilemmas.

Steelheart

In a world where superhumans reign supreme, David Charleston harbors a secret vendetta. Ten years ago, he witnessed Steelheart, the most powerful Epic, murder his father. Now, David joins the Reckoners, a group of ordinary humans fighting back. Armed with meticulous research on Epic weaknesses and fueled by a thirst for revenge, David is determined to uncover Steelheart’s fatal flaw. But in a city of steel and secrets, the line between hero and villain blurs, and David must confront the true cost of his quest for justice.

Champion

In a world where the elite compete for glory, June and Day find themselves on opposite sides of a deadly game. As a prodigy born into the wealthy Republic, June’s path seems set. But when her brother is murdered, she’s thrust into a dangerous hunt for the prime suspect: Day, a brilliant outlaw from the slums. As their paths collide, they uncover shocking truths that challenge everything they believe. Lu’s gripping dystopian tale explores loyalty, justice, and the blurred lines between right and wrong in a society divided by power and privilege.

Prodigy

In a world where genius is feared, June and Day are two extraordinary teens on opposite sides of a dystopian society. As their paths collide, they uncover dark secrets and face impossible choices. Lu’s gripping narrative weaves together action, romance, and political intrigue, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. I couldn’t put it down, staying up way too late just to see what would happen next. A thrilling ride that left me eagerly anticipating the sequel.