This next installment in The Hunger Games series follows now 17-year-old Katniss Everdeen as she struggles with the aftermath of her victory in the 74th Hunger Games. The foundations of this mighty and cruel country shake as districts prepare to revolt, apparently encouraged by Katniss’s stunt with the berries that led to her victory. A personal visit from President Snow frightens Katniss, and she must decide if she wants to try to stop the uprisings or join them. She must also think of her future and decide who she wants more: Gale or Peeta. However, the Capitol has a horrifying surprise planned for the 75th Hunger Games.
This book is a great sequel to The Hunger Games. It spends less time developing the characters, which the first book did well, and more time throwing the characters into action and drama. The first part, dealing with the results of the 74th Hunger Games, is packed with stress and drama between the main characters. The second half is entirely focused on the 75th Hunger Games, and ups the action and twists when compared to the Games in the previous book. I will say that some minor choices don’t make sense, and I prefer the wonder of reading about a new world to the constant surprise of this book. But overall, this is a great way to follow up from the amazing first book and will still keep you on the edge of your seat in suspense.