An ember in the ashes

Based on your book

An ember in the ashes

by Sabaa Tahir

An Ember in the Ashes drops you into a fiercely brutal, Roman-inspired empire where defiance is met with death. You'll follow Laia, a young slave forced to become a spy within the very military academy that trains her people's oppressors, and Elias, a reluctant elite soldier yearning for freedom from the tyranny he's meant to uphold. This book is a relentless, emotionally charged ride. The world feels genuinely dangerous, and the stakes are always incredibly high for both protagonists. It's a dark story, full of impossible choices and constant suspense, but it's also about finding courage and purpose when everything is stacked against you. If you're looking for an intense dystopian fantasy with a strong female lead and a gripping fight against an oppressive system, this will keep you absolutely glued to the page.

10 Books similar to 'An ember in the ashes'

If you were captivated by An Ember in the Ashes, you're likely drawn to stories where ordinary people ignite rebellions against overwhelming odds. Our recommendations lean into that intense, high-stakes feeling, featuring protagonists who navigate brutal dystopian societies and challenge oppressive regimes. You'll find other strong female leads, intricate political intrigue, and the desperate fight for freedom that made Laia and Elias's journey so compelling. These books share that same gritty, emotional core, promising more immersive experiences where courage sparks in the darkest of times.

We earn from qualifying purchases through our affiliate partners, including Amazon and Bookshop.org.

Red Rising
Red Rising

by Pierce Brown

Fans of "An Ember in the Ashes" will appreciate the brutal, class-divided society and the protagonist's journey from oppressed to revolutionary. The intense military academy setting and high-stakes rebellion against a powerful empire mirror the desperate fight for freedom and survival.

The Poppy War
The Poppy War

by R.F. Kuang

This book offers a similarly dark and gritty fantasy world, focusing on a strong female protagonist who rises from poverty through a brutal military academy. Readers will find the intense training, exploration of magic, and the morally complex themes of war and power dynamics compelling.

Mistborn: The Final Empire
Mistborn: The Final Empire

by Brandon Sanderson

Readers will be drawn to the intricate magic system and the compelling story of a rebellion against an immortal, oppressive ruler. The dual protagonists, including a resourceful female lead and a reluctant leader, navigate political intrigue and high-stakes plans for freedom.

Throne of Glass
Throne of Glass

by Sarah J. Maas

This series features a fierce female assassin forced into a competition, reminiscent of the trials Elias faces, within a politically charged kingdom. It combines high-stakes action, a hidden rebellion, and developing romance, appealing to those who enjoy strong protagonists fighting for freedom.

Kindle

Love to read on the go?

Explore Kindle e-readers and take your books with you.

Get a Kindle e-reader

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Graceling
Graceling

by Kristin Cashore

Fans will connect with the resilient and powerful female protagonist, Katsa, who grapples with her identity and uses her unique abilities in a world rife with political machinations. The journey of self-discovery and fighting against injustice echoes Laia's own struggles for agency.

Scythe
Scythe

by Neal Shusterman

While set in a post-mortal future, this book explores similar themes of oppression, control, and moral dilemmas through the eyes of two teenagers chosen for a grim task. The intense pacing and thought-provoking questions about power and humanity will resonate with readers.

The Hunger Games
The Hunger Games

by Suzanne Collins

This iconic dystopian series shares the core elements of a brutal, oppressive regime, a strong female protagonist fighting for survival, and a desperate rebellion. The high-stakes competition and themes of sacrifice and resistance will deeply appeal to fans of "An Ember in the Ashes."

Daughter of Smoke & Bone
Daughter of Smoke & Bone

by Laini Taylor

For readers who enjoyed the forbidden romance and the epic scope of "An Ember in the Ashes," this book offers a beautifully written story of star-crossed lovers caught between warring factions. It delves into ancient secrets, identity, and the devastating consequences of conflict.

Serpent & Dove
Serpent & Dove

by Shelby Mahurin

This book features a compelling enemies-to-lovers romance set against a backdrop of religious persecution and magic, where an arranged marriage forces two adversaries together. The intense forbidden love, strong female lead, and magical elements will appeal to fans.

Shadow and Bone
Shadow and Bone

by Leigh Bardugo

Set in a Russian-inspired fantasy world, this story follows a seemingly ordinary girl who discovers extraordinary powers, thrust into a military elite and political intrigue. The chosen one trope, magic system, and fight against dark forces will resonate with readers.