They managed to solve the Labyrinth. This was supposed to be the end. No more tests. No more variables. No more running. Thomas was sure that after their escape, the Gladers would get their lives back. But no one really knew what kind of life they would return to.

But in the Glade, life was easy. They had food, shelter, and safety... until Teresa triggered the end. But in the world outside the Labyrinth, the end had been triggered long ago.

Scorched by solar flares and in a new, brutal climate, the earth is a wasteland. The government has collapsed - and with it, order - and now Cranks, people covered in gruesome wounds, driven to murderous madness by the infectious disease known as the Flare, roam the desolate cities in search of their next victim... and meal.

Maybe the Gladers should have been done with running. But instead of freedom, they find themselves facing yet another trial. They must cross the Scorch, the most burned-out section of the world, and reach a safe haven within two weeks. And WICKED has adjusted the variables and shaped the odds against them.

Will Thomas always be at the mercy of WICKED? Or does he hold the secret to freedom somewhere in his mind?

"Dashner builds suspense, spinning chapters filled with twists and turns that flow seamlessly together and culminate in a uniquely thrilling ending. Issues of survival and moral dilemmas in a deadly landscape make the danger even more chilling and terrifying. Readers will be on the edge of their seats with this gripping story, which is also perfect for fans of Suzanne Collins' Hunger Games trilogy."
(Voya)