AceShowbiz - Veronica Roth is set to expand the world of her acclaimed dystopian series with two upcoming novels. The author revealed on April 18 at BookCon that she is working on a duology that will take place within an alternate timeline of her popular Divergent universe. This fresh storyline will explore a pivotal question: what if Tris had never transferred to Dauntless?

The first book in this new series, titled The Sixth Faction, is scheduled for release on October 6. Roth described the project as an experiment, clarifying that it is neither a sequel, prequel, nor a spinoff, but rather a new way to revisit the characters and setting that originally launched her career. She expressed excitement about reconnecting with longtime fans and introducing new readers to this reimagined narrative during the 15th anniversary year of Divergent.

"The Sixth Faction started as an experiment - not a sequel, not a prequel, and not a spinoff, but something new, something that would allow me to explore the series that launched my career," Roth shared in a press release issued on the day of the announcement. She also noted her gratitude for the enthusiastic support from HarperCollins, the publisher backing this bold new venture.

The story of The Sixth Faction will revisit protagonist Beatrice Prior, better known as Tris, at a critical moment early in the original saga. Readers will see her facing the Choosing Ceremony once again, but this time tragedy strikes, altering everything about her world, her plans, and ultimately, herself. Instead of choosing Dauntless as in the original storyline, this alternate path draws her into the midst of a secret rebellion and introduces her to a mysterious boy identified only by a number, whose secrets prove as dangerous as her own.

Erica Sussman, Vice President and Publisher at HarperCollins Children’s Books, praised the new work, calling The Sixth Faction a “tour de force.” She expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with Roth on this fresh take, anticipating that it will thrill loyal fans while captivating newcomers to the franchise.

The original Divergent trilogy, composed of Divergent (2014), Insurgent (2015), and Allegiant (2016), made a significant impact in both literary and film circles. The film adaptations starred Shailene Woodley as Tris and Theo James as her love interest, Four. Plans for a fourth movie, Ascendant, which was intended to conclude the cinematic series, were ultimately canceled following disappointing box office results from the third installment.

As of now, there has been no announcement regarding any adaptation of the upcoming duology. Fans of the franchise will have to wait until October 6 to delve into The Sixth Faction and discover how this alternate timeline reshapes the story they thought they knew.

The announcement marks an exciting new chapter for the Divergent universe, promising fresh perspectives and complex new challenges for its beloved characters. With Roth’s creative vision and HarperCollins’ support, readers can anticipate a compelling revisit to a world that continues to resonate 15 years after its debut.