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The Scorch Trials by James Dashner
4.0

I've only seen the movie adaptations of these books once, but rereading them makes me want to watch them again.

The Scorch Trials is the second Maze Runner book, and while I don't know if I can pick a favorite from the two, the vibes are incredibly different. Thomas and the Gladers finally get to learn a bit more about the world outside the maze and yet they still know nothing overall about what has happened to get society to this point.
The focus of the story is, once again, survival. I did appreciate that some of Thomas's plot armor has dissolved, meaning there's a bit more tension. No longer are the Gladers confined to the Maze, but they now have an entire world to explore...if not for their assigned "quest." I think this book has more action than mystery, but there's still a fine mix of both. The ending plot twists still trick me every time because I try to trust everyone. I like the introduction to the Cranks in this book, too.
The cast of characters feels like it has shrunk dramatically. Thomas is fine as a main character, but I don't particularly love him. Minho and Newt are my favorites just because they show more personality, although Newt feels a bit less important in this one. I don't mind Jorge, but Brenda gets on my nerves for obvious reasons. Aris annoys me as well, and Teresa is just...I still don't know how to feel.
The Scorch Trials is the action-packed sequel to The Maze Runner perfect for fans of the YA dystopian genre.
4.25/5