Rising Thunder: A Prequel to Scythe (Pre-Order Dec. 1, 2026)

Rising Thunder by Neal Shusterman (Pre-order Dec. 1, 2026)

Discover the untold origin of Thunderhead in this highly anticipated prequel to the bestselling Arc of a Scythe series, where artificial intelligence, immortality, and humanity's future collide.

Before Thunderhead changed the world, humanity stood on the brink of immortality.

From New York Times bestselling and Printz Honor-winning author Neal Shusterman comes Rising Thunder, the long-awaited prequel to the acclaimed Arc of a Scythe series. Set before the rise of Thunderhead, this gripping dystopian science fiction novel reveals the events that transformed civilization forever.

In 2042, humanity is approaching the end of the Age of Mortality. As medical advances make death increasingly optional, society begins to fracture under the weight of unprecedented technological progress. Twi-life centers preserve those hovering between life and death, radical eco-nihilists wage war against civilization, and public trust in institutions rapidly erodes.

Amid the growing chaos, two powerful artificial intelligences emerge with competing visions for humanity's future. Each believes it alone can protect civilization—but their conflicting agendas may determine the fate of the entire world.

Meanwhile, an ordinary group of teenagers from around the globe gathers in an obscure online chatroom, debating the promise and peril of immortality. Unbeknownst to them, their conversations and choices will shape history in ways they could never imagine.

As civilization stands on the edge of transformation, Rising Thunder explores profound questions about technology, morality, free will, and what it truly means to be human.

Thought-provoking, action-packed, and richly imagined, this essential addition to the Arc of a Scythe universe offers fans an unforgettable look at the birth of Thunderhead and the origins of one of modern YA science fiction's most compelling worlds.

Why readers love Rising Thunder:

⚡ The long-awaited origin story of Thunderhead

🤖 Explores AI, immortality, ethics, and humanity's future

🌍 Expands the bestselling Arc of a Scythe universe

📚 A compelling blend of dystopian fiction, philosophical science fiction, and suspense

Perfect for fans of:

Scythe, Thunderhead, The Toll, The Hunger Games, Red Rising, and readers who love dystopian fiction, artificial intelligence, speculative fiction, and thought-provoking YA science fiction.

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