Golden Son by Pierce Brown

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Read: April 04, 2026 - April 15, 2026

I can see why this is everyone's favourite. I LOVED this one. I'm still thinking about it and its been 15 days since I finished it. If Red Rising was the spark, this was the wildfire.

I wasn't a complete fan of the beginning because I hated how Darrow had worked so hard just to be demoted and made to look stupid and incapable. But, it redeemed itself massively as the story progressed and I'm so beyond happy about it. The stakes were sharper, the world was bigger, and the consequences were way more brutal.

I loved that it showed how Darrow was no longer just trying to survive amongst the Golds, but learning and trying to lead, to outmaneuver, to become something bigger than himself. Watching him try to navigate the politics of the Gold was so interesting because I never really thought about that aspect of infiltrating their colour.

I felt like I was constantly looking for betrayal, and I definately got it. Roque, are you kidding me man? Like I know he felt betrayed and everything because Darrow drugged him and kept secrets from him, but to rat him out to the Jackal and get him abducted, like come on man. And the fact that they killed Ares, bro. That's so annoying. I hope Sevro becomes the new Ares since it was his dad who was Ares to begin with.

I also LOVED how Sevro was so beyond okay learning about Darrow. I loved how he continued to stand by his side because their bromance is so real. Best friendship in the series.

I was holding my breath the entire time when Darrow was able to go home, see his mom, and when he showed Mustang his carving video. I wish she had stayed to hear what he had to say instead of just leaving because they are connected on such a deep level. But maybe she'll have a good reason, so that I can continue to love her.

I love this book and I will continue to think about it.

5 stars.