Having won the Hunger Games, Katniss and Peeta return to District 12. They both live in houses on Victor's row, and Katniss wishes life could be same as before the Games. Yet, this is impossible. Her sleep is disturbed by nightmares, her relationships with Gale and Peeta are strained, and because of her actions in the arena, other Districts are beginning to rebel and President Snow informs her if she doesn't quell the uprisings the lives of her loved ones are at stake.

Then there is the 75th anniversary of the Hunger Games, the Quarter Quell. President Snow changes the rules, making the pool of contestants come from the living victors of the past games.

Many of Katniss' relationships become more complicated and she has to decide what will be best for the Districts in the long run. Should she sacrifice herself for loyalty and love? Or should she join in the rebellion?