Renegades

by Marissa Meyer • 2017 • 552 pages

4.12

157.9K ratings

Fantasy Young Adult Science Fiction

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Plot Summary

The Age of Anarchy Begins

Prodigies rise against oppressive society

In a world where prodigies are feared and persecuted, Ace Anarchy unites them to overthrow oppressive governments, leading to the Age of Anarchy. This era is marked by chaos and lawlessness, with villain gangs and ordinary people running rampant. Amidst the turmoil, the Renegades emerge as a beacon of hope, promising justice and order, and establishing themselves as the new rulers of Gatlon City.

Nova's Family Tragedy

Nova's family is brutally murdered

Young Nova Artino, a prodigy who never sleeps, witnesses the murder of her family by a hitman. Her father, who sought protection from the Renegades, was betrayed. Rescued by her uncle, Ace Anarchy, Nova is consumed by trauma and a thirst for revenge against the Renegades. Raised among the Anarchists, she hones her abilities and anger, setting the stage for her future mission.

Renegades Rise to Power

Renegades establish control over chaos

The Renegades, led by Captain Chromium and the Dread Warden, defeat Ace Anarchy and restore order to Gatlon City. They establish a new government, promising safety and justice, but their rule is marked by strict control and surveillance. This leaves many, including Nova, disillusioned. The Renegades' trials become a spectacle, a means to recruit new prodigies and maintain their power.

Nova's Secret Mission

Nova infiltrates the Renegades

Driven by a desire for revenge, Nova adopts a new identity, Nova McLain, to infiltrate the Renegades. With the Anarchists' help, she forges a new past and enters the Renegade trials. Her mission is perilous, but Nova is determined to dismantle the Renegades from within, seeking justice and freedom for prodigies.

The Renegade Trials

Nova faces challenges at the trials

At the Renegade trials, Nova must prove her worth. Her unique power, the ability to never sleep, is not flashy, leading to skepticism. She faces a challenge from Frostbite's team and chooses to duel Gargoyle, using her skills and wits to outmaneuver him. Her determination catches the attention of Adrian Everhart, a Renegade leader, marking her entry into the Renegades.

Nova's Daring Duel

Nova outsmarts Gargoyle in duel

During the trials, Nova faces Gargoyle, a formidable opponent. Using her quick thinking and agility, she outmaneuvers him, employing a small cannon figurine to trip him up. Her victory is a personal triumph and catches Adrian Everhart's attention, setting the stage for her undercover mission within the Renegades.

Adrian's Secret Tattoo

Adrian enhances powers with tattoos

Adrian Everhart, known as Sketch, secretly tattoos a new power onto his arm, enhancing his abilities. This ritual is part of his hidden identity as the Sentinel, a vigilante with multiple powers. Adrian's dual life is driven by a personal mission to find Nightmare, a villain connected to his past, adding complexity to his character.

The Library's Fiery Trap

Anarchists' plan goes awry at library

Nova and her team stake out the Cloven Cross Library, suspecting illegal activities. The mission turns dangerous when Ingrid, the Detonator, sets off explosions, destroying the library. Nova saves a child and confronts Ingrid, but the chaos results in the death of Gene Cronin, the Librarian. The mission's failure forces the Anarchists to flee, leaving Nova to navigate the aftermath.

The Sentinel's True Intentions

The Sentinel seeks Nightmare's identity

The mysterious Sentinel, with his array of powers, intervenes during the library chaos. He offers Cronin a deal for information on Nightmare, revealing his personal vendetta. Nova, caught between her dual identities, is left questioning the Sentinel's true allegiance and the extent of his powers, complicating her mission.

Council's Deceptive Display

Council's hall reveals hidden truths

Adrian is awestruck by the grandeur of Council Hall, where the Renegades' leaders sit in their iconic costumes. The hall's beauty contrasts with the serious discussion about the library incident. The Council praises Nova for her bravery but reprimands the team for disobeying orders, reminding Adrian of the Renegades' strict protocols and responsibilities.

Nova's Secret Unveiled

Nova discovers Ace's helmet's truth

While exploring the Renegades' headquarters, Nova stumbles upon Ace Anarchy's helmet, only to realize it's a fake. The real helmet, still intact, is hidden away, revealing the Council's deception. This discovery reignites Nova's determination to bring down the Renegades, as she realizes the power they hold and the lies they perpetuate.

The Detonator's Deadly Game

Ingrid's betrayal and explosive plan

Ingrid, the Detonator, confronts Nova with a plan to fake their deaths, hoping to escape the Renegades' pursuit. However, Ingrid's true intentions are revealed when she sets off a series of bombs at Cosmopolis Park, endangering countless lives. Nova and Adrian must act quickly to stop her, but the chaos leaves them questioning who they can trust.

A New Threat Emerges

Agent N's ominous potential

The Council hints at a new weapon, Agent N, capable of stripping prodigies of their powers. This revelation alarms Nova, as it threatens the very existence of prodigies who refuse to conform to the Renegades' rule. The potential misuse of Agent N becomes a catalyst for Nova's renewed mission against the Renegades.

Nova's Renewed Resolve

Nova's mission to reclaim power

After the chaos at Cosmopolis Park, Nova is more determined than ever to retrieve Ace's helmet and dismantle the Renegades' control. She realizes the importance of her mission not just for revenge, but to prevent the oppression of prodigies. With newfound clarity, Nova prepares to take bold steps to achieve her goals.

Characters

Nova Artino

Vengeful prodigy seeking justice

Nova, also known as Nightmare, is a prodigy who never sleeps. Traumatized by her family's murder and the Renegades' betrayal, she is determined to avenge them. Raised by the Anarchists, she is skilled in combat and engineering. Nova infiltrates the Renegades as Insomnia, using her new identity to gather intelligence and plot their downfall.

Adrian Everhart

Renegade leader with hidden powers

Adrian, the adopted son of Captain Chromium and the Dread Warden, is a Renegade leader known as Sketch. He can bring his drawings to life and has secretly given himself additional powers through tattoos. Adrian is intrigued by Nova and her potential, unaware of her true identity and motives.

Ace Anarchy

Visionary leader of the Anarchists

Ace Anarchy, Nova's uncle, led the prodigy rebellion against oppressive governments. Though defeated by the Renegades, his vision of freedom for prodigies lives on through Nova. He is a complex figure, seen as both a villain and a hero, whose legacy continues to influence Nova's actions.

Captain Chromium

Charismatic leader of the Renegades

Captain Chromium, a nearly invincible prodigy, is one of the original Renegades and a key figure in the new government. He is seen as a hero by many, but his failure to protect Nova's family fuels her hatred. His leadership is both admired and questioned as the Renegades maintain control over Gatlon City.

Frostbite

Ruthless Renegade with icy powers

Frostbite, a member of the Renegades, is known for her cold demeanor and ability to create ice. She challenges Nova at the trials, skeptical of her abilities. Frostbite represents the darker side of the Renegades, willing to use intimidation and force to maintain order.

Leroy Flinn (Cyanide)

Cunning Anarchist and poison master

Leroy, known as Cyanide, is a member of the Anarchists and a mentor to Nova. He creates poisons and concoctions, both legal and illegal, to support their cause. Leroy is pragmatic and supportive of Nova's mission, offering her guidance and resources to infiltrate the Renegades.

Ingrid Thompson (Detonator)

Reckless Anarchist with explosive power

Ingrid, known for her volatile nature, disrupts the Anarchists' plans with her impulsive actions at the library. Her betrayal and disregard for strategy highlight the internal conflicts within the Anarchists, ultimately forcing them to flee.

Gene Cronin (Librarian)

Knowledgeable villain caught in chaos

The Librarian, a former weapons dealer, becomes a casualty of the Anarchists' failed mission. His death underscores the precariousness of the Anarchists' alliances and the consequences of their actions.

Max

Quarantined prodigy with mysterious power

Max, a young boy living in isolation at Renegade Headquarters, is both dangerous and valuable. His presence raises questions about the Renegades' experiments and their control over prodigies.

Simon Westwood (Dread Warden)

Insightful leader with hidden depths

Simon, a member of the Council, reveals the truth about Ace's helmet to Nova. His calm demeanor and strategic thinking make him a formidable leader, but his secrets hint at deeper complexities within the Renegades.

Plot Devices

The Renegade Trials

Spectacle for recruiting new heroes

The Renegade trials are a public event where prodigies demonstrate their powers to join the Renegades. The trials are both a recruitment tool and a spectacle, showcasing the Renegades' power and influence. They serve as a backdrop for Nova's infiltration, highlighting the tension between prodigies and the Renegades' control.

Nova's Dual Identity

Spy within the Renegades

Nova adopts the identity of Insomnia to infiltrate the Renegades. Her dual identity is a key plot device, allowing her to gather intelligence while maintaining her cover. This device creates tension and suspense as Nova navigates her new role, balancing her mission with the risk of discovery.

The Sentinel

Mysterious figure with multiple powers

The Sentinel is a new, enigmatic figure with multiple powers, challenging the Renegades' authority. His existence raises questions about the Renegades' experiments and their control over prodigies. The Sentinel's presence complicates Nova's mission, as she seeks to understand and counter this new threat.

The Library's Fiery Trap

Explosive confrontation reveals Anarchists' plans

The library stakeout becomes a pivotal moment, exposing the Anarchists' vulnerabilities and the Renegades' determination. The chaos and destruction highlight the high stakes of Nova's mission and the unpredictable nature of her allies.

Ace's Helmet

Symbol of power and deception

The helmet, believed to be destroyed, is revealed to be intact and hidden by the Renegades. Its existence symbolizes the Council's control and the potential for prodigies to reclaim their power.

Agent N

Antidote threatening prodigy freedom

Agent N, a weapon capable of removing prodigies' powers, represents a new threat to those who refuse to conform to the Renegades' rule. Its potential misuse becomes a catalyst for Nova's renewed mission against the Renegades.

Analysis

Exploration of power and identity

"Renegades" by Marissa Meyer delves into themes of power, identity, and justice. Through Nova's journey, the book explores the complexities of dual identities and the moral ambiguities of heroism and villainy. The Renegades, while promising order, represent a form of control that stifles freedom, prompting questions about the true nature of justice. Nova's internal conflict and her interactions with Adrian highlight the struggle between personal vendettas and the greater good. The introduction of Agent N raises ethical dilemmas about the use of power and the consequences of stripping individuals of their abilities. Ultimately, the book challenges readers to consider the balance between security and freedom, and the cost of maintaining order in a world of extraordinary abilities.

Last updated: February 3, 2025

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Synopsis & Basic Details

What is Renegades about?

A world divided by power : In a society where prodigies with extraordinary abilities are both feared and revered, a group of heroes called the Renegades rises to power, promising order and justice after a period of anarchy.
A mission of revenge : A young prodigy named Nova, who lost her family to the chaos, seeks to infiltrate the Renegades, driven by a desire for revenge and a belief that they are not the saviors they claim to be.
A battle for control : The story explores the complex dynamics between the Renegades and the Anarchists, a group of villains who believe in freedom and independence, as they clash over the future of Gatlon City and the rights of prodigies.

Why should I read Renegades?

Unique blend of genres : Renegades combines elements of superhero fiction, dystopian society, and political intrigue, creating a compelling and thought-provoking narrative.
Complex characters and moral ambiguity : The story features morally gray characters with conflicting motivations, forcing readers to question the nature of heroism and villainy.
Intriguing world-building : Marissa Meyer creates a richly detailed world with a complex history, where prodigies are both feared and revered, and where the line between good and evil is often blurred.

What is the background of Renegades?

Post-anarchy society : The story is set in Gatlon City, a place recovering from the Age of Anarchy, a period of chaos and lawlessness caused by a prodigy rebellion against oppressive governments.
Prodigies and their powers : The world is populated by prodigies, individuals with extraordinary abilities, who are both feared and revered by the rest of society.
Political and social unrest : The story explores the power dynamics between the Renegades, who have established a new government, and the Anarchists, who seek to dismantle their control and create a society based on freedom and independence.

What are the most memorable quotes in Renegades?

"We were all villains in the beginning." : This quote from the beginning of the book highlights the complex history of prodigies and the blurred lines between heroes and villains.
"One cannot be brave who has no fear." : This quote, repeated throughout the story, reveals a deeper understanding of bravery and the internal struggles of the characters.
"Maybe Ace really was a villain. Or maybe he was a visionary. Maybe there's not much of a difference.": This quote encapsulates the central theme of the book, questioning the nature of good and evil and the motivations behind those who seek power.

What writing style, narrative choices, and literary techniques does Marissa Meyer use?

Multiple perspectives : The story is told from the perspectives of both Nova and Adrian, allowing readers to see the conflict from both sides and understand their motivations.
Foreshadowing and symbolism : Meyer uses subtle foreshadowing and recurring symbols to hint at future events and deepen the themes of the story.
Fast-paced action and suspense : The story is filled with action sequences and suspenseful moments, keeping readers engaged and eager to know what will happen next.

Hidden Details & Subtle Connections

What are some minor details that add significant meaning?

The broken bracelet : The bracelet that Adrian fixes for Nova is a symbol of her past and her connection to her father, who was a skilled metalworker. It also represents the brokenness of her family and her desire to repair what was lost.
The color red : The color red is used throughout the story to symbolize both the Renegades and the Anarchists, highlighting the blurred lines between good and evil and the shared history of prodigies.
The names of the characters : The names of the characters, such as Captain Chromium, the Dread Warden, and Nightmare, often reflect their powers or their personalities, adding another layer of meaning to the story.

What are some subtle foreshadowing and callbacks?

The mention of the "Sentinel": The first mention of the Sentinel is a subtle foreshadowing of Adrian's secret identity and his growing internal conflict.
The description of the library : The description of the Cloven Cross Library as a place of knowledge and power foreshadows its significance in the story and the events that will unfold there.
The recurring phrase "One cannot be brave who has no fear" : This phrase, first mentioned in the note found on Lady Indomitable's body, foreshadows the connection between Adrian and Nightmare and the shared trauma that drives them.

What are some unexpected character connections?

Adrian and Nova's shared past: Both Adrian and Nova have a connection to Ace Anarchy, though they are on opposing sides of the conflict. This connection creates a complex dynamic between them and adds to the moral ambiguity of the story.
The Council and the Anarchists : The Council and the Anarchists are not as different as they seem, both having a history of violence and oppression. This connection highlights the cyclical nature of power and the dangers of extremism.
The Sentinel and Lady Indomitable: The Sentinel's use of the phrase "One cannot be brave who has no fear" connects him to Lady Indomitable, Adrian's mother, hinting at a deeper connection between them.

Who are the most significant supporting characters?

Oscar Silva (Smokescreen): As a member of Adrian's team, Oscar provides a unique perspective on the conflict and serves as a foil to Adrian's more serious nature. His ability to manipulate smoke and his loyalty to his friends make him a valuable ally.
Ruby Tucker (Red Assassin): Ruby's ability to turn her blood into weapons makes her a formidable fighter, and her loyalty to her team makes her a valuable ally. Her past trauma and her desire for justice make her a complex and compelling character.
Ingrid Thompson (Detonator): As a member of the Anarchists, Ingrid's volatile nature and explosive powers make her a dangerous opponent. Her actions at the library and her betrayal of Nova highlight the internal conflicts within the Anarchists.

Psychological, Emotional, & Relational Analysis

What are some unspoken motivations of the characters?

Adrian's desire for control: Adrian's secret identity as the Sentinel is driven by a desire to control his own destiny and to make a difference in the world, even if it means going against the rules of the Renegades.
Nova's need for belonging: Despite her desire for revenge, Nova is also driven by a need for belonging and acceptance, which she finds among the Anarchists and, unexpectedly, with Adrian.
The Council's fear of losing power : The Council's strict adherence to rules and their attempts to control prodigies are driven by a fear of losing their power and influence, and a desire to prevent another Age of Anarchy.

What psychological complexities do the characters exhibit?

Nova's internal conflict: Nova struggles with her desire for revenge and her growing feelings for Adrian, creating a complex internal conflict that drives her actions.
Adrian's guilt and responsibility: Adrian feels a strong sense of guilt and responsibility for the safety of his team and the people of Gatlon City, which leads him to take on more than he can handle.
Ingrid's recklessness and self-destruction: Ingrid's volatile nature and her willingness to sacrifice herself for her cause highlight her internal struggles and her inability to cope with the loss of Ace Anarchy.

What are the major emotional turning points?

Nova's discovery of Ace's helmet: Nova's discovery that the helmet is a fake and that the real one is still intact reignites her desire for revenge and solidifies her commitment to the Anarchist cause.
Adrian's encounter with Nightmare: Adrian's encounter with Nightmare at the parade and her taunting words about fear force him to confront his own vulnerabilities and his desire to protect the city.
The library's destruction : The destruction of the library and the death of the Librarian force Nova to question her alliances and her own moral compass, leading her to make a difficult choice.

How do relationship dynamics evolve?

Nova and Adrian's growing connection: Despite their opposing sides, Nova and Adrian develop a complex relationship, marked by mutual respect, attraction, and a shared sense of responsibility.
The Anarchists' internal conflicts : The Anarchists' relationships are strained by their differing views on how to achieve their goals, leading to betrayal and internal conflict.
The Renegades' team dynamics: The Renegades' team dynamics are tested by the events of the story, forcing them to confront their own vulnerabilities and the limitations of their power.

Interpretation & Debate

Which parts of the story remain ambiguous or open-ended?

The Sentinel's true identity and motives: The Sentinel's true identity and his connection to the Council remain ambiguous, leaving readers to question his allegiance and his ultimate goals.
The nature of Max's power: The full extent of Max's power and its potential consequences are left open-ended, raising questions about the future of prodigies and the Renegades' control over them.
The future of the Anarchists : The fate of the Anarchists and their ability to challenge the Renegades' power remains uncertain, leaving readers to wonder if they will ever achieve their goals.

What are some debatable, controversial scenes or moments in Renegades?

The Council's strict control and surveillance : The Council's methods of maintaining order, including their strict protocols and surveillance, raise questions about the balance between security and freedom.
The use of violence and force : The use of violence and force by both the Renegades and the Anarchists raises questions about the morality of their actions and the consequences of their choices.
The treatment of prodigies : The treatment of prodigies by both the Renegades and the Anarchists raises questions about the nature of power and the responsibility that comes with it.

Renegades Ending Explained: How It Ends & What It Means

The Anarchists' escape and the library's destruction : The Anarchists' escape from the library and the destruction of the building highlight the limitations of the Renegades' power and the ongoing threat posed by those who oppose them.
Nova's decision to stay with the Renegades: Nova's decision to remain with the Renegades, despite her growing doubts, suggests that she is still committed to her mission, even if it means working with her enemies.
The emergence of Agent N: The revelation of Agent N as a potential weapon against prodigies sets the stage for future conflicts and raises questions about the future of prodigies in Gatlon City.