D is for Dystopian #AtoZChallenge

Dystopian novels are sometimes referred to as apocalyptic novels - in other words, the world as we know it has ended. These novels are very popular right now, although this really isn't something new.

Here are some of my Dystopian novel recommendations. Note, I listened to all of these on audio book from Audible.com, and all were very well produced, which only added to the story. I drive two hours a day and audio books are my saving grace - I HIGHLY recommend them if you have a long commute.

The Divergent series by Veronica Roth - wow are these books good!! The first book, Divergent, was recently made into a movie, and I assume the others will follow. The movie was great too, by the way, but the books are almost always better.

The Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins - you've probably heard of these ones, but if you've only watched the movie, you missed out on half of the story. The books are fantastic.

Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand - this book was published in the 1950s, but its message as still as relevant today. I have read that this book is one of the top 10 most influential books ever written. If you're going to listen to the audio book, get the one by Scott Brick - he's a phenomenal narrator. I was so moved by this book that once I finished it (all sixty hours of it), I immediately listened to it a second time.

The Bone Season by Samantha Shannon - this twist to this one is that it's set in 2059 and features people with psychic abilities and aliens. Sounds pretty crazy, but trust me, this book was action packed and compelling. The second book in this series is due out in October 2014.

Daemon and Freedom by Daniel Suarez - these books feature high tech toys that actually exist today, but are not yet on the market. Really interesting stuff, the first book is pretty terrifying (not in a horror way, but more in the dismantling of society way) and the second book is inspiring - a vision of what society could become. Amazing books that I have listened to more than once.

Patient Zero by Jonathan Maberry - this is more of an honorable mention, because in the end the heroes were able to stave off the end of the world by zombie infestation. I am currently listening to this series, and I'm really enjoying it. The main character, Joe Ledger, has a great sense of humor which makes the books that much more enjoyable.

The Passage Trilogy by Justin Cronin - wow... these books... just wow. They start off in present day and before you know it the world just spins out of control, then BAM it's 100 years later. There are some interesting twists and turns, and a lot of things I never saw coming. The final book in the trilogy isn't out yet, but I'm waiting for it with baited breath!

The Stand by Stephen King - I read IT when I was in high school, and pretty much avoided King's books for about the next 20 years, but somehow I ended up reading The Stand and I loved it! I have read several of his non-mad clown books now and have really enjoyed them.

All of these books have been out for awhile, so you can get them in softcover for a steal. If you're interested in audio books, I highly recommend Audible.com, but I have also heard that some local libraries have audio books too. Happy reading, or listening!

Note: Sorry... I had links in here for each book, but something got goofed up with them :(