15 Books Like Shatter Me
If you’re a fan of Tahereh Mafi’s electrifying “Shatter Me” series and hunger for more tales filled with gripping plots, intricate romance, and powerful characters, then you’re in for a treat.
Dive into these mesmerizing books that share similar themes of love, rebellion, and extraordinary abilities, promising to captivate your imagination and keep you turning pages long into the night.
Whether you’re drawn to dystopian worlds or crave stories with a touch of the supernatural, there’s something here to satisfy your craving for heart-stopping adventure and unputdownable storytelling.
Let’s explore these literary gems one at a time.
Books Like Shatter Me
1. Divergent by Veronica Roth
“Divergent” is a young adult dystopian novel that follows Beatrice “Tris” Prior, who lives in a society divided into five factions, each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue.
At the age of sixteen, individuals must select the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives. Tris makes a choice that surprises everyone, including herself, leading her to a highly competitive initiation process to enter her chosen faction.
Along the way, she discovers a growing conflict that threatens to unravel her seemingly perfect society, as well as secrets about her own family’s past.
Major Similarities: Both “Shatter Me” and “Divergent” feature strong female protagonists who must navigate a dystopian world with unique abilities or traits that set them apart. These novels explore themes of identity, power, and societal division, offering readers a mix of action, romance, and the journey of self-discovery. The central characters in both books are thrust into situations that force them to question the world around them and their place within it, making critical choices that affect their futures and those around them.
2. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
“The Hunger Games” is set in the dystopian country of Panem, where the Capitol holds power over the twelve districts. Each year, one boy and one girl from each district are selected to participate in the Hunger Games, a televised fight to the death.
The story follows Katniss Everdeen, who volunteers to take her younger sister’s place in the games. Katniss must rely on her wits, instincts, and the alliances she forms to survive the games and return home.
Major Similarities: “The Hunger Games” shares with “Shatter Me” a dystopian setting where the government exerts extreme control over its citizens. Both novels feature strong, resourceful female leads who are forced into situations where they must fight for their lives and protect those they love. Themes of rebellion, the quest for freedom, and the effects of authoritarian rule are central to both stories, as is the development of romantic subplots amidst the backdrop of societal upheaval.
3. Delirium by Lauren Oliver
“Delirium” presents a world where love is deemed a disease called “Amor Deliria Nervosa.”
The government requires that all citizens receive a cure upon turning eighteen to prevent the disease. Lena Haloway looks forward to the cure until she meets Alex, a boy from the Wilds who lives under the government’s radar.
Lena then begins to question everything she has been taught about love, freedom, and the society she lives in.
Major Similarities: Like “Shatter Me,” “Delirium” explores a future society where the government controls the most intimate aspects of its citizens’ lives, including their emotions. Both novels feature a young female protagonist who discovers her own strength and power through a forbidden romance, challenging the oppressive systems in place. Themes of resistance, the power of choice, and the questioning of authority run deep in both stories, making them resonate with readers who enjoy tales of personal growth and societal change.
4. Legend by Marie Lu
“Legend” is set in the Republic, a nation at war with its neighbors in what was once the western United States.
The story is told from the perspectives of two protagonists: June, a military prodigy born into an elite family, and Day, the country’s most wanted criminal.
Their paths cross when June’s brother is murdered, and Day becomes the prime suspect.
As June seeks revenge, she uncovers the truth behind her brother’s death and the dark secrets of her government.
Major Similarities: “Legend” and “Shatter Me” share a dystopian setting where the government’s corrupt nature is a significant obstacle for the characters. Both novels feature dual perspectives that help build a rich, complex world filled with intrigue, suspense, and action. The themes of corruption, rebellion, and the impact of government on personal freedom are explored, alongside developing relationships that challenge the characters’ preconceived notions about their society and themselves.
5. Matched by Ally Condie
“Matched” is set in a society where the Officials decide everything for its citizens, including what they eat, where they work, and whom they marry.
Cassia has always trusted their choices, but when she is matched with her best friend Xander, a glitch shows her another boy’s face for a moment.
This error leads Cassia on a journey to question the perfection of her world and discover the truth about freedom, love, and the power of choice.
Major Similarities: Both “Matched” and “Shatter Me” take place in societies where the government exercises control over nearly every aspect of life, including relationships. The novels center on young female protagonists who begin to question the rules of their worlds after encountering love that defies societal norms. Themes of choice, rebellion against oppressive systems, and the journey towards self-discovery and empowerment are crucial elements of both stories, appealing to readers who enjoy speculative fiction with strong emotional and philosophical underpinnings.
6. Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi
“Under the Never Sky” follows Aria, a girl living in a protected dome city who is exiled into the outer wasteland, and Perry, an outsider struggling to survive in a world ravaged by aether storms.
Their initial mistrust turns into a partnership for survival, and eventually, a deep connection forms between them. As they journey together, they discover secrets about their world and the true nature of the divide between their societies.
Major Similarities: Similar to “Shatter Me,” “Under the Never Sky” features a dystopian setting with a strong focus on the development of the characters’ relationships amidst a backdrop of societal division and environmental catastrophe. Both novels explore themes of survival, the clash between different worlds or societies, and the transformative power of love and understanding. The element of characters with unique abilities or traits also plays a significant role in driving the narrative forward.
7. The Selection by Kiera Cass
“The Selection” is set in a dystopian future where the country of Illea is divided into castes. The story follows America Singer, who is chosen to compete in the Selection—a competition to win the heart of Prince Maxon and become the next queen.
Though initially reluctant, America finds herself drawn to the prince, even as she struggles with her feelings for her secret love from a lower caste. The Selection offers a glimpse into a world of glittering gowns, fierce competition, and the possibility of true love.
Major Similarities: Like “Shatter Me,” “The Selection” combines elements of dystopian fiction with a strong romantic plotline. Both books deal with young women who find themselves in extraordinary circumstances that challenge their perceptions of love, society, and their own identities. The themes of societal structure, rebellion, and the tension between duty and desire are prevalent in both narratives, offering readers a blend of romance, intrigue, and commentary on societal norms.
8. Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard
“Red Queen” takes place in a world divided by blood—red and silver. Mare Barrow, a commoner with Red blood, discovers she possesses a power unique to the elite Silver ruling class.
This revelation thrusts her into the heart of the Silver world, including the royal court and its dangerous intrigue. Mare must navigate a deadly game of power and betrayal, all while fighting for her people’s freedom and her own survival.
Major Similarities: “Red Queen” and “Shatter Me” share a central theme of a young woman discovering extraordinary abilities that challenge the status quo of a divided society. Both protagonists must navigate a world of political intrigue and rebellion, where alliances and enemies are not always clear. The exploration of power, identity, and resistance against oppression are key themes, with the added complexity of romantic entanglements that complicate the characters’ journeys.
9. Graceling by Kristin Cashore
“Graceling” is set in a fantasy world where certain individuals, known as Gracelings, are born with exceptional skills. Katsa, the protagonist, possesses the grace of killing and is used as a weapon by her uncle, the king.
Her life takes a turn when she meets Prince Po and embarks on a journey that reveals the corrupt nature of the power structures in their world. Together, they uncover a sinister plot that threatens the balance of their society.
Major Similarities: Both “Graceling” and “Shatter Me” feature protagonists with deadly powers that set them apart from others and initially isolate them. The themes of self-discovery, the moral implications of using one’s abilities, and the fight against oppressive regimes are central to both stories. The novels also explore the development of strong, complex relationships that help the characters grow and challenge their preconceived notions of strength and vulnerability.
10. Across the Universe by Beth Revis
“Across the Universe” is a science fiction novel set aboard a spaceship, Godspeed, traveling to a new planet.
The story is told from two perspectives: Amy, a girl cryogenically frozen with her parents for the journey, who is unexpectedly awakened 50 years too early, and Elder, the future leader of the spaceship’s enclosed society.
Together, they uncover the ship’s dark secrets and question everything they’ve been taught about the mission and their destiny.
Major Similarities: Similar to “Shatter Me,” “Across the Universe” explores themes of control, rebellion, and the quest for truth within a tightly controlled society. Both novels feature a strong female protagonist and a complex male counterpart, with a developing relationship that deeply influences their journey and the narrative’s direction. The element of uncovering hidden truths and challenging the status quo is a significant aspect of both stories, set against the backdrop of a dystopian or controlled environment.
11. The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey
“The 5th Wave” follows Cassie Sullivan as she navigates a world devastated by alien invasions that have decimated the population and thrown civilization into chaos.
Cassie is on a desperate quest to save her younger brother, believing that to stay alone is to stay alive. Her resolve is tested when she meets Evan Walker, who may be her only hope for rescuing her brother and uncovering the truth about the alien invaders.
Major Similarities: Like “Shatter Me,” “The 5th Wave” features a strong female protagonist navigating a dystopian world filled with danger and betrayal. Both novels explore themes of survival, the loss of innocence, and the determination to protect loved ones at any cost. The element of a potential romance under dire circumstances adds depth to the characters’ motivations and challenges they face, while the presence of a greater enemy requires them to discover and harness their inner strengths.
12. Article 5 by Kristen Simmons
“Article 5” is set in a future United States where the Bill of Rights has been replaced by the Moral Statutes. The story follows Ember Miller, who lives in a society strictly governed by the Federal Bureau of Reformation.
Ember’s life is turned upside down when her mother is arrested for noncompliance with Article 5, and she is sent to a reform school.
There, she reunites with her childhood love, Chase Jennings, now a soldier for the oppressive government, sparking a complex relationship as they navigate a world of rebellion and resistance.
Major Similarities: Both “Article 5” and “Shatter Me” are set in dystopian futures where oppressive governments control the population through fear and strict regulations. The novels focus on young female protagonists who find themselves at odds with the society’s rules, leading them to question authority and fight for their freedom. Themes of love, resistance, and the quest for justice are explored, alongside the challenges of navigating relationships in a world where trust is a rare commodity.
13. Pawn by Aimée Carter
“Pawn” takes place in a dystopian future where society is divided into classes determined by a single test.
Kitty Doe, a girl from the lower class, is offered the chance to become a VII and join the ruling class by assuming the identity of the Prime Minister’s niece, who has died under mysterious circumstances.
As Kitty is drawn into a web of lies and political intrigue, she must navigate her new role while uncovering the truth behind the government’s actions and fighting for her own identity.
Major Similarities: “Pawn” and “Shatter Me” both feature heroines thrust into roles they never expected, challenging oppressive societal structures. Both stories delve into themes of identity, power, and resistance, with protagonists who must use their wits and strength to navigate dangerous political landscapes. The exploration of what it means to have control over one’s life and the lengths to which individuals will go to gain freedom and protect those they care about are central to both narratives.
14. Unwind by Neal Shusterman
“Unwind” is set in a future America where children between the ages of thirteen and eighteen can be “unwound,” meaning their organs are harvested for use by others.
The novel follows three teenagers—Connor, Risa, and Lev—who are on the run from the authorities with their own reasons for wanting to escape unwinding. As they fight for survival, they must confront their beliefs about life, society, and themselves.
Major Similarities: Like “Shatter Me,” “Unwind” presents a dystopian future where young people are subject to the extreme control of a dystopian society. Both novels explore themes of survival, autonomy, and the fight against a society that sees them as expendable. The moral dilemmas and ethical questions raised in both stories challenge the characters and readers alike to consider the value of life and the importance of fighting for one’s beliefs.
15. Pure by Julianna Baggott
“Pure” is set in a post-apocalyptic world where society is divided between those who are “Pure,” having protected themselves from the detonations in domes, and those who are “Wretches,” people who were outside during the explosions and now bear physical deformations.
Pressia, a Wretch, lives a life of hiding and survival until she meets Partridge, a Pure boy who has escaped the dome seeking the truth about his family. Their alliance leads them to uncover secrets that will challenge everything they know about their world and themselves.
Major Similarities: “Pure” and “Shatter Me” share dystopian settings characterized by a clear division between the ruling and the oppressed. Both novels feature young protagonists confronting the harsh realities of their worlds, uncovering hidden truths, and questioning the status quo. Themes of identity, rebellion against oppressive regimes, and the transformative power of unexpected relationships are central to both stories, offering a compelling exploration of resilience and the human spirit in the face of adversity.
