Young Adult Book Review: Ignite by Sara B. Larson
Title: Ignite
Series: Defy #2
Author: Sara B. Larson
Age Group: YOUNG ADULT
Genre Type: Fantasy
Publication Date: December 30th 2014
Source: Publisher
Publisher: Scholastic Press
SUMMARY:
Murder, abductions, and forbidden romance abound in this thrilling sequel to Sara B. Larson's acclaimed YA debut, DEFY.
Alexa remains by the newly crowned King Damian’s side as his guard, ever committed to helping him rebuild Antion and reclaim the hope of Antion's people, despite continuing to harbor a secret love for him. However, when another threat to Damian and his kingdom emerges, and blame is cast on their newly forged allies from Blevon, Alexa knows things are not what they seem. With the fate of her nation hanging in the balance once again, will Alexa be able to protect her king and uncover the true enemy -- before it's too late?
Defy was one of my favorite reads last year. One that gave me a heroine that captivated me. Alexa the sword-fighting girl who took on the persona of a boy in order to join the king's army, and ended-up on a heroines journey, saving the kingdom, and falling in love!
Dark Magic, Intrigue and New Villain
After a major battle and the defeat of a dark wizard at the end of Defy, the kingdom of Antion is carefully rebuilding its alliances and the trust of their people with Damian now crowned their new king. Now with Ignite, Alexa is just as dedicated to Damian and determined to protect him, even if that means sacrificing her feelings for the "good" of the kingdom. Torn between duty and love, Alexa struggles to find her place as warrior to the king and his love as well. Now a new threat arrives and endangers Antion, Damian and all those close to him. Magic, intrigue and a dangerous new villain threatens, and Alexa is all that stands in the way.
Alexa the Fierce Warrior and Heroine
Alexa continues to struggle in the beginning of Ignite with her place as guard and warrior for Damian, and the feelings they share. I'm glad to say the romance deepens and the focus changes on Alexa and her abilities as a kick-butt warrior. She takes charge more and grows stronger as a heroine. Often facing dark battles on her own, rather than jeopardize others.
More Derriere-Kicking action, Magic and Fantasy.
There's a ton of action, danger and more magic that fills in the plot and puts the focus on a new, dangerous enemy and threatens the kingdom. This was a fantastic push into avoiding the dreaded book two syndrome. The reader is treated to some great kick-butt skills from Alexa and fellow warriors. I enjoyed the battle scenes and loved the fierce-warrior Alexa is becoming.
A New Villain to Hiss and Boo Over.
I love a good villain to hate, and Ignite has given me someone to boo and hiss at! There's a new bully in town, and he wields some bad magic. Alexa is in for a battle ...
A romance that is Destined ... When the Hero *sees* the Heroine for who she is on the inside and not just the one reflecting Back on the Outside.
One of my favorite aspects about this series is the theme that beauty comes in many forms, and that what is on the inside is what's important. Damian, and the romance, represents a sweet and beautiful aspect of this as we witness his love for Alexa. Damian "sees" and loves what is on the inside of Alexa, and not just the fierce, beautiful warrior she is on the outside- battle scars and all. I love this message that the author Sara B. Larson incorporates cleverly into the story.
A Killer Ending that has Me Clamoring for the Next Installment.
The ending was action-packed, gave me a mini-HEA in the sense some things become resolved. Yet, Sara B. Larson once again gives us a killer ending that has us eager to continue, our breath held once more in sweet, (agonizing) anticipation.
My Rating: 4.5 Stars. I really liked it!
PLEASE NOTE: A copy of this book was provided by Scholastic Press in exchange for my fair and honest review. Thank you Scholastic Press for the review opportunity!
