The Scorch Trials (by James Dashner)

"The Scorch Trials" by James Dashner is the second book in the "Maze Runner" series. It follows the protagonist, Thomas, and other teens as they escape the deadly maze and face new challenges in a desert wasteland called the Scorch. They encounter dangerous Cranks—people infected with a deadly infection—and must navigate harsh environments, unreliable allies, and a mysterious organization. The novel explores themes of survival, trust, and discovery as the group seeks to uncover the truth behind their situation and find hope in a bleak, post-apocalyptic world.