Sunrise on the Reaping (a Hunger Games Novel)

I absolutely loved Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins. It was great returning to the world of Panem and seeing more of the history behind the Hunger Games. The story was gripping and emotional, and I found myself really invested in the characters and their journeys. One thing I especially enjoyed was seeing how the rebellion against the Capitol was always there beneath the surface. Even in small moments, you could see hints of resistance and the beginnings of the fight that would later grow into something much bigger. It added a lot of depth to the story and made the world feel even more connected to the rest of the series. Overall, this was an amazing read and a fantastic addition to the Hunger Games universe. I would definitely recommend it to fans of the series.

’The moment out hearts shattered? It belongs to us.’ Brutal, harrowing and highly disturbing at times ’Sunrise On The Reaping’ doesn’t simply pack a handful of emotional gut punches and flinch inducing moments into its pages; its jam packed with them throughout. Yet, despite its heavy nature, it’s a highly compelling read that is pretty much impossible to put down. Not a combination that is always easy to come by but Suzanne Collins always nails it somehow. Needless to say I was hooked. Truthfully I can’t fully decide if this is the most brutal of The Hunger Games books yet. There were certainly occasions when it felt that way to me with scenes and manoeuvring that felt particularly barbaric. But it must have been over a decade now since I read the original series so maybe time is a factor in me feeling that way; I’ll never forget the hollowed out, bleak feeling that fell over me upon finishing ’Mockingjay’ all those years ago after all. This definitely had more than its fair share of macabre moments though and I have to say that these particular games may just be the most savage yet. Obviously, given the twisted nature of the games they’re always unthinkably horrific but between its misleadingly idyllic setting, its vast array of mutts and the higher than ever number of Tributes the barbarity of this particular set of ‘games’ really stands out. ’Sunrise On The Reaping’ is more than just an account of Haymitch’s time within the arena though. Technically that’s what is covered but there’s another storyline interwoven throughout which will mean a lot to fans of the series. Here you learn just how long certain things have been brewing. This is also a chilling insight into the propaganda of Collin’s world. Its more than simply disturbing to see just how expertly the Capitol can put a spin on any moment. Character wise there’s a mixture of old and new faces involved in this instalment. Some of the individuals from the other books that featured caught me completely off guard. It gave me additional insight into several characters who appear within the other books and also left me oddly curious to discover more of Plutarch’s story. Within the previous books I don’t think I gave him as much thought as I should of; now though...well I have to confess I’m kind of craving an instalment centred around him. Just how insightful an account of propaganda would you get by following in the footsteps of one of the people whose job it is to sell the Hunger Games story? Besides which I desperately crave more insight into his motivations now. Besides these old characters there were a few new faces that particularly stood out to me. I won’t name anyone again – as I think it’s best uncovering what people are like for yourself – but there was definitely one new face that I loathed instantly (trust me, you will too) and another that I ended up coming to root for immensely over the course of the book. Character journeys certainly seem to be something that the author excels at. There’s more that I could say about this novel but truthfully I think this is a review that’s best kept vague. Although I will quickly highlight the beauty of the epilogue too because I can’t share my feelings and not give that segment a shout out. Other than that I’ll simply say that this is a magnificent, brutal and fascinating new venture into Collins’ world that is sure to delight – and devastate – fans of the series. Altogether I definitely recommend ’Sunrise On The Reaping’ ; it’s another glorious book by Suzanne Collins that has left me longing to dive back into the dystopian genre (and re-read her original trilogy too). Its sure to strike a chord with the series many fans but if you haven’t yet read any of the books this could still work as a starting point into exploring the series. Its harrowing, brutal, chillingly disturbing and yet utterly impossible to put down. Needless to say I was utterly hooked and can’t wait to see what others think of it too. Please tell me I’m not alone in wanting a Plutarch book now.

Sunrise on the Reaping is a stunning, emotionally charged addition to The Hunger Games universe—Suzanne Collins once again proves her mastery of dystopian storytelling with a prequel that feels both harrowing and hauntingly relevant. Centered on a young Haymitch Abernathy during the 50th Hunger Games, the book dives deep into his psyche, peeling back the layers of the bitter, broken man we met in the original trilogy and revealing the scared, sharp, and stubborn boy beneath. The pacing is relentless and tense, as the horror of the Quarter Quell looms over every chapter. The world-building expands on the Panem we thought we knew, giving rich context to the politics, propaganda, and cruelty of the Capitol’s grip. Collins does what she does best—lays bare the systems of power and exploitation, and then shows us how ordinary people resist in extraordinary ways. Haymitch’s journey is brutal, and yet deeply human. The relationships he forges—especially with his fellow tributes—are moving, complex, and devastating in the best way. My only minor critique is that the love interest being a Covey felt somewhat repetitive after The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes. While the parallels are thematically intentional and cleverly done, the connection may feel slightly familiar for readers hoping for something new. Still, the emotional resonance of this story is undeniable. Sunrise on the Reaping captures the spirit of resistance, sacrifice, and humanity that made the original trilogy unforgettable. It deepens the legacy of the series without ever feeling like a rehash. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, this is a powerful return to Panem that will stay with you long after the final page.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 📚E-BOOK📚 & 🎧AUDIO🎧 I picked up both the audiobook and Kindle version of Sunrise on the Reaping, and I absolutely loved it. If you know the Hunger Games series, you already know—this is no HEA story. And if you don’t, I highly recommend reading the original trilogy first. It’s so worth it! Suzanne Collins once again masterfully immerses us in a world ruled by a government with no humanity—where people are nothing more than pawns. Haymitch’s story is as tragic as it is compelling, and this book delivers in every way. I tried not to set my expectations too high, but wow... it delivered. The twists, the revelations, the way it enhances the original trilogy—it’s absolutely wild. One of my favorite aspects was the insane number of parallels between Haymitch and so many secondary characters from the first trilogy. It added so much depth and heartbreak to an already devastating story. I laughed, I cried (a lot), and I was completely absorbed from start to finish. And the quotes? Absolutely haunting. 💔 "Nobody ever wins the games. Period. There are survivors. There's no winners." 💔 "I know that every year for my birthday, I will get a new pair of tributes, one girl and one boy, to mentor to their deaths. Another sunrise on the reaping." This book is a brutal, emotional, and unforgettable addition to the Hunger Games universe. If you’re ready to dive back into Panem, prepare yourself—because this one hurts.

Fav read of all time, arrived in very good condition as well

Ótimo livro.

Great book. Arrived as promised. Hard back copy. Well worth it.

I have to admit that I didn't think I would ever be so excited with a book like this, especially after the 4th installment (book was so boring). And now I can't even decide if it's my fav against Catching fire. This book is an absolute gem and makes you feel twisted inside, I don't think I'll be as excited to read anything else for this whole year 😂 😂