Though I think a major difference, when it comes to the Covenant series, is that you're not supposed to identify with Thomas Covenant when he does all these terrible things. Whereas in the hypothetical Katniss's Shadow, you'd be supposed to identify with the young capitol girl, and then wonder why you identify so much with her.

At least, I assume you're not expected to identify with Covenant. I didn't; but I also assume you're not expected to read the books, based on my experience with them.