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One Spark
Emotions are a vital piece of life. That is, except for Disparates, whose emotions could literally be the death of them.
One hundred years after the Rain of Fire, those that survived the nuclear war split into seven Republics. In the research-driven Republic of Stillfield, parents Ben and Jemma Hodgerton need to make a choice for their oldest after the age limit for Enertin, the medication used to suppress emotions, and therefore powers, is lowered. Medicating would give him the life they desperately want, while minimizing the risk of becoming engulfed in flames.
It seems like an easy decision, until a false accusation rips the family apart. Throwing them onto separate paths that leave them questioning what, and who, they can trust. One thing they do know: they’ll do anything to be back in each other’s arms. If an ocean can’t keep them apart, perhaps a plot devised to rid the world of Disparates will.
Unlikely allies, unexpected plans, and past trauma all collide in this dystopian world. But the real question is:
When a brain is wired differently, is it right to change it?
Join Benjamin and Jemma Hodgerton as they navigate parenthood in this closed-door adult dystopian urban fantasy by debut author Holly D. Morgan.
One hundred years after the Rain of Fire, those that survived the nuclear war split into seven Republics. In the research-driven Republic of Stillfield, parents Ben and Jemma Hodgerton need to make a choice for their oldest after the age limit for Enertin, the medication used to suppress emotions, and therefore powers, is lowered. Medicating would give him the life they desperately want, while minimizing the risk of becoming engulfed in flames.
It seems like an easy decision, until a false accusation rips the family apart. Throwing them onto separate paths that leave them questioning what, and who, they can trust. One thing they do know: they’ll do anything to be back in each other’s arms. If an ocean can’t keep them apart, perhaps a plot devised to rid the world of Disparates will.
Unlikely allies, unexpected plans, and past trauma all collide in this dystopian world. But the real question is:
When a brain is wired differently, is it right to change it?
Join Benjamin and Jemma Hodgerton as they navigate parenthood in this closed-door adult dystopian urban fantasy by debut author Holly D. Morgan.
387 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 15, 2024
1 person is currently reading
57 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
December 6, 2024
You NEED this book in your life (especially if you're a parent, but you don't have to be). It's a very well-written debut, and the worldbuilding was brilliant and thorough. I enjoyed watching it unfold, and the color-coding really helped me keep track of things. Also, I loved how small details set up early on in the story tied in later. So satisfying.
I really liked all the characters. Margaret's was a POV I wasn't expecting but ended up enjoying. And Ben and Jemma were the sweetest and realest. <3 From my experience with kids, I'd say the boys were written perfectly too.
This dystopian setting is usually found only in YA, so it was delightful to have adults as the MCs for a change. (More relatable to this late-twenties, married woman.) I loved the themes of strong emotions and neurodivergence, and the end brought that all together in such a sweet way!
I look forward to more from this author. ;)
CW: This is adult fiction so some of the situations and implications are not suitable for younger ages. Tasteful nudity between a married couple, medical experimentation, imprisonment, fear, and strong emotions were included.
Please note: As is common in the dystopian genre, this book takes a strong stance against medication, including both pills and injections.
I really liked all the characters. Margaret's was a POV I wasn't expecting but ended up enjoying. And Ben and Jemma were the sweetest and realest. <3 From my experience with kids, I'd say the boys were written perfectly too.
This dystopian setting is usually found only in YA, so it was delightful to have adults as the MCs for a change. (More relatable to this late-twenties, married woman.) I loved the themes of strong emotions and neurodivergence, and the end brought that all together in such a sweet way!
I look forward to more from this author. ;)
CW: This is adult fiction so some of the situations and implications are not suitable for younger ages. Tasteful nudity between a married couple, medical experimentation, imprisonment, fear, and strong emotions were included.
Please note: As is common in the dystopian genre, this book takes a strong stance against medication, including both pills and injections.
December 13, 2024
Oh my goodness you NEED this book 👀 I’m not typically into dystopian and I still loved it. I’ll be thinking about it for DAYS and feeling ALL the emotions. Which is only fitting, don’t you think? 😉
This story is an easy 5 stars from me. Period. It’s fast-paced without feeling rushed, its world-building is rich and extensive without feeling bogged down. Jemma and Ben’s love for each other is swoony and realistic, and the cast of characters is diverse in every way. The villain is deliciously hate-able, the plot twists believable without being predictable. I love it!
Perfect for fans of:
- twists and turns
- villains you love to hate
- diverse and lovable characters
- fast-paced action and intrigue
- suspense
- a HFN that still leaves you aching for the sequel
- dystopian setting
- adults saving the world (instead of teenagers this time 😉)
- healthy, swoony love that is every bit as moving as those in romance novels
Content Warnings:
Languauge: no swearing
Spice: non-descriptive fade to black between a married couple, kissing
Potential triggers: prejudice, corruption, abuse of power, injustice, action and mild violence
This story is an easy 5 stars from me. Period. It’s fast-paced without feeling rushed, its world-building is rich and extensive without feeling bogged down. Jemma and Ben’s love for each other is swoony and realistic, and the cast of characters is diverse in every way. The villain is deliciously hate-able, the plot twists believable without being predictable. I love it!
Perfect for fans of:
- twists and turns
- villains you love to hate
- diverse and lovable characters
- fast-paced action and intrigue
- suspense
- a HFN that still leaves you aching for the sequel
- dystopian setting
- adults saving the world (instead of teenagers this time 😉)
- healthy, swoony love that is every bit as moving as those in romance novels
Content Warnings:
Languauge: no swearing
Spice: non-descriptive fade to black between a married couple, kissing
Potential triggers: prejudice, corruption, abuse of power, injustice, action and mild violence
October 25, 2024
OKAY SO I NEED THE NEXT BOOK!
this book I really enjoyed!! I LOVED the idea of the power system <3 I can tell alot of love went into making these characters and this world, and I can't wait to see where this all leads
this book I really enjoyed!! I LOVED the idea of the power system <3 I can tell alot of love went into making these characters and this world, and I can't wait to see where this all leads
October 1, 2024
It only takes one spark.
One Spark is an adult dystopian mashed with a bit of urban fantasy. This book was incredible! I could not put it down! For once we don't have a young teenager rising from the ashes and starting a revolution. Instead, we have a group of adults who have "superpowers."
Most of the cast are Disparates, those who possess these outstanding abilities. One Spark has a group of individuals fighting to rescue Ben who has been falsely captured and is being held on a prison island that isn't supposed to be used anymore. The group consists of members who possess different abilities and have been plotting to get rid of EnertinX, a pill that takes away Disparates energy but with dire consequences. These individuals are joined by Ben's wife, Jemma, who is a pretty awesome powerhouse.
All of the characters were so real and unique. The story is fresh and exciting!! Definitely not like the cookie-cutter books we usually see today. This story will be living rent-free in my mind for a long time to come!! I can hardly wait to see what happens next!!
One Spark is an adult dystopian mashed with a bit of urban fantasy. This book was incredible! I could not put it down! For once we don't have a young teenager rising from the ashes and starting a revolution. Instead, we have a group of adults who have "superpowers."
Most of the cast are Disparates, those who possess these outstanding abilities. One Spark has a group of individuals fighting to rescue Ben who has been falsely captured and is being held on a prison island that isn't supposed to be used anymore. The group consists of members who possess different abilities and have been plotting to get rid of EnertinX, a pill that takes away Disparates energy but with dire consequences. These individuals are joined by Ben's wife, Jemma, who is a pretty awesome powerhouse.
All of the characters were so real and unique. The story is fresh and exciting!! Definitely not like the cookie-cutter books we usually see today. This story will be living rent-free in my mind for a long time to come!! I can hardly wait to see what happens next!!
October 15, 2024
I really enjoyed this book being about adults instead of a teenage main character. The family is trying to get through the day when an event happens that takes both husband and wife down different paths to get back together.
If you’re a fan of X-men then this is a book for you.
The story is easy to read and the characters all intertwine together well. One spark is good but we definitely need more of these characters.
If you’re a fan of X-men then this is a book for you.
The story is easy to read and the characters all intertwine together well. One spark is good but we definitely need more of these characters.
December 1, 2024
I'm not big on dystopia novels and/or with married couples with kids. This author has changed my mind about that. This novel is Mom and Dad save the world. Not the teenagers or little kids.
We met Ben and Jemma. Two people trying to survive with two young kiddos. We learn about their world, what has become of it and get right into the story. The story flowed wonderfully and it rejuvenated my feelings as a wife/a mom/a sister. Jemma was written so well. Ben was written so good. His character goes through so much but you know how much he loves his wife and kids. Add in some plot twist and so so so good! With a supporting characters of great characters, I will read more books in this series!
We met Ben and Jemma. Two people trying to survive with two young kiddos. We learn about their world, what has become of it and get right into the story. The story flowed wonderfully and it rejuvenated my feelings as a wife/a mom/a sister. Jemma was written so well. Ben was written so good. His character goes through so much but you know how much he loves his wife and kids. Add in some plot twist and so so so good! With a supporting characters of great characters, I will read more books in this series!
September 27, 2024
This one started a little slow for me but I loved it by the end! The power/magic structure is different and interesting. It’s set in a post-apocalyptic, dystopian-type world, but still pretty similar to ours. There wasn’t a lot of detail on the circumstances or fallout, just a few brief mentions of it. The main characters are a husband and wife with two small children, which was a nice change from all of the 18-20 year olds in most of the books I read. I would love to read more books set in this world.
Some people in this world are Disparates- they are born with powers that manifest when a particular emotion is strongly felt. Their powers can be dangerous if they get out of control, and people without these powers fear them. To help the Disparates keep their emotions in check, ‘for the good of society’, they take a pill each day which dulls that particular emotion. The pill is a different color, and affects each type of Disparate differently, depending on their power, and must be taken at exactly the same time every day to be effective. Ben, the MMC, can create Fire when he feels strong anger or irritation. Trouble begins when Ben loses his pill and ends up taking it a few minutes late one day. A fire starts on his desk at work, and next thing he knows he is being framed as a notorious arsonist and hauled off to a prison island. His wife, Jemma, is left frantic with worry and fear as she tries to find him and free him, while also trying to protect their sons, one of whom has already started to show Disparate powers of his own. She finds help in unexpected places, makes new friends, and some people in her life are not who she thought they were. There are dangerous plans in the works for the next iteration of the pill, and Jemma and her friends have to find Ben and stop the distribution of the new pill before it’s too late.
If you like books like Divergent, but with more mature, adult characters, you’d enjoy this book!
✨Check it out when it releases on October 15th!✨
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book, but all opinions are my own.
Some people in this world are Disparates- they are born with powers that manifest when a particular emotion is strongly felt. Their powers can be dangerous if they get out of control, and people without these powers fear them. To help the Disparates keep their emotions in check, ‘for the good of society’, they take a pill each day which dulls that particular emotion. The pill is a different color, and affects each type of Disparate differently, depending on their power, and must be taken at exactly the same time every day to be effective. Ben, the MMC, can create Fire when he feels strong anger or irritation. Trouble begins when Ben loses his pill and ends up taking it a few minutes late one day. A fire starts on his desk at work, and next thing he knows he is being framed as a notorious arsonist and hauled off to a prison island. His wife, Jemma, is left frantic with worry and fear as she tries to find him and free him, while also trying to protect their sons, one of whom has already started to show Disparate powers of his own. She finds help in unexpected places, makes new friends, and some people in her life are not who she thought they were. There are dangerous plans in the works for the next iteration of the pill, and Jemma and her friends have to find Ben and stop the distribution of the new pill before it’s too late.
If you like books like Divergent, but with more mature, adult characters, you’d enjoy this book!
✨Check it out when it releases on October 15th!✨
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book, but all opinions are my own.
October 16, 2024
This book wasn’t exactly what I expected, but it was a really enjoyable, suspenseful read with some great twists and a medium-fast pace. I was really drawn to it because of the adult main characters, whilst also not being (although there is a sweet love story that is a part of it. Actually technically two!) I feel like almost all adult dystopian books are absurdly raunchy and I really liked that this had mature characters without that.
The world didn’t feel quite as dystopian as I would have hoped, and I often was wishing I knew more about the backstory of the world and how they got to where they were. Why is it divided up the way it is? What caused the Disparate ms to develop their powers? I think that more of this background would have helped me enter into it more, and have more a sense of dystopia. But perhaps that’s coming in the sequels?
In many ways the world is very like ours, and I think a lot of parents will relate to Ben and Jemma. Amidst what is going on in the story, Jemma has to go grocery shopping, take her kids to sports practices and arrange for childcare. Her life is in some ways mundane, but in a charming, relatable way. Personally she and Ben were a little less relatable to me, but I’m not married and don’t have children. But I could see many of my friends lives reflected in the characters.
A central theme of the book considers how handles neurodivergence and encourages suppression or simply ignoring “excessive” emotion. The author explores what the consequences may become of that approach, as well as exploring what an alternative of teaching people to handle their emotions in a safe and controlled way rather than through suppression in what I thought was a compelling and thought provoking way.
It is not your typical love story in the sense that the main characters are in a healthy (but not perfect!) marriage from the start. But it is a beautiful love story in which you see them fight to get back to each other when their circumstances have torn apart their family, and that their love remains despite many forces working against them, even powerful mind manipulation working to make one forget the other.
Although I wanted a little more from this at times, I enjoyed it and would recommend it, and can see myself reading the sequels to learn more about what happens (and hopefully more background!)
I was given an advanced reader e-copy of this book thanks to the publisher, author and BookFunnel. My thoughts in this review are my own and given voluntarily.
The world didn’t feel quite as dystopian as I would have hoped, and I often was wishing I knew more about the backstory of the world and how they got to where they were. Why is it divided up the way it is? What caused the Disparate ms to develop their powers? I think that more of this background would have helped me enter into it more, and have more a sense of dystopia. But perhaps that’s coming in the sequels?
In many ways the world is very like ours, and I think a lot of parents will relate to Ben and Jemma. Amidst what is going on in the story, Jemma has to go grocery shopping, take her kids to sports practices and arrange for childcare. Her life is in some ways mundane, but in a charming, relatable way. Personally she and Ben were a little less relatable to me, but I’m not married and don’t have children. But I could see many of my friends lives reflected in the characters.
A central theme of the book considers how handles neurodivergence and encourages suppression or simply ignoring “excessive” emotion. The author explores what the consequences may become of that approach, as well as exploring what an alternative of teaching people to handle their emotions in a safe and controlled way rather than through suppression in what I thought was a compelling and thought provoking way.
It is not your typical love story in the sense that the main characters are in a healthy (but not perfect!) marriage from the start. But it is a beautiful love story in which you see them fight to get back to each other when their circumstances have torn apart their family, and that their love remains despite many forces working against them, even powerful mind manipulation working to make one forget the other.
Although I wanted a little more from this at times, I enjoyed it and would recommend it, and can see myself reading the sequels to learn more about what happens (and hopefully more background!)
I was given an advanced reader e-copy of this book thanks to the publisher, author and BookFunnel. My thoughts in this review are my own and given voluntarily.
October 15, 2024
The first thing that intrigued me about One Spark is that it’s a dystopian book, which are my favorite types of books, and the characters are adults. It’s quite refreshing to see a dystopian book where the main characters aren’t teenagers, it makes it much more relatable to us adult dystopian readers who wish that there were characters near our age. Makes it feel like: ‘heck yeah! We can still be the chosen one even in this age!’ , y’know? The characters were thought out so well. We got to see their imperfections, their personalities, their lives. As a reader, it’s amazing to see and read a character that isn’t one dimensional. If a character has a certain fear or personality trait, we get to see why they have that instead of it just being stated and then move on from it. I’d say, if you’re an adult who grew up reading dystopian books like The Maze Runner, The Hunger Games, Divergent, etc. and wanted to continue feeling like you could be the hero even as an adult, then this book is for you.
December 8, 2024
This is a fun addition to the dystopian genre and one that I am glad to have read!
In our society, the topic of showing our emotions can still be a taboo conversation. I do believe we are doing better in this realm, but this book is a breath of fresh air-exploring the idea of how our emotions are powerful and something we have control over to master.
I didn't know what to expect following the MC's as being parents. It's not something I read a lot of, but wow, the author has a way of creating these characters to make you root for them the entire book. A specific part had me in tears because I felt for Jemma, the FMC.
The plot was fun and medium paced. I loved seeing the different POV's scattered in this story.
This story did seem fairly wrapped up at the end, no major cliffhanger, but I think there could be more??
Overall, great debut and I am excited to see more!
In our society, the topic of showing our emotions can still be a taboo conversation. I do believe we are doing better in this realm, but this book is a breath of fresh air-exploring the idea of how our emotions are powerful and something we have control over to master.
I didn't know what to expect following the MC's as being parents. It's not something I read a lot of, but wow, the author has a way of creating these characters to make you root for them the entire book. A specific part had me in tears because I felt for Jemma, the FMC.
The plot was fun and medium paced. I loved seeing the different POV's scattered in this story.
This story did seem fairly wrapped up at the end, no major cliffhanger, but I think there could be more??
Overall, great debut and I am excited to see more!
October 10, 2024
If you enjoy books that give a dystopian vibe with superpowers this is the book for you!!! I absolutely loved the fresh story of Ben and Jemma!
In a world of negativity, be a Ben!!💕
About the book:
In Stillfield, we follow a family (which is a nice change of pace from the other fantasy books I’ve read). I love that we have adults with powers and becoming hero’s⚡️
Ben is a fire disparate and he takes medication to help control his emotions/powers. Reading about him made me reflect on our society today and how everything is always pushed to a pill to make everything better💊 Ben is falsely accused and taken from his family. I absolutely loved this book and can’t wait for it to expand to more!!
In a world of negativity, be a Ben!!💕
About the book:
In Stillfield, we follow a family (which is a nice change of pace from the other fantasy books I’ve read). I love that we have adults with powers and becoming hero’s⚡️
Ben is a fire disparate and he takes medication to help control his emotions/powers. Reading about him made me reflect on our society today and how everything is always pushed to a pill to make everything better💊 Ben is falsely accused and taken from his family. I absolutely loved this book and can’t wait for it to expand to more!!
November 9, 2024
I said it before reading this book, and I'll say it now, it's so exciting to read a dystopian book with superpowers and evil plots where it's not a fight against zombies and the main characters are married parents. And the best part is, the book delivers! It delivers on the hallmarks of the genre that make it fun to read and it delivers on a compelling cast of characters with so much to want to know more about I'm already excited for the novellas, spin-offs, and sequels, because you just know there's so much more where this came from. And the fact that in the midst of battling a dystopian plot, the main character stops to confront mom guilt....chef's kiss. 10/10 recommend for anyone with kids who wishes they could read something where the parent gets the powers and stops the baddie plot.
September 11, 2024
This book is amazing! The way the author incorporates every day struggles is amazing! There's no other book like this, sure there's similar themes to other stories so there's the familiarity, but the whole story and the way emotions become literal powers for disparates is unique and incredible! Everyone needs to read this and have this book in their lives especially nowadays with so many neurodivergent people. I love the way this book is relatable, funny, sad, sweet, it makes you think. She does an amazing job at foreshadowing, and tying everything together! 😍 I love this story and I'm excited for when book 2 comes out!
October 16, 2024
One spark is all it takes to read and love this book! 🔥⚡️
I totally loved Holly’s debut novel. The mental health themes were on point, and it was so refreshing to read a book centered around mental health and the impact of using a pill to control our energy and emotions. The characters were relatable, and the dystopian aspect was really creative. There were a lot of twists and turns throughout the book that kept me engaged, and I’m excited for Book 2! 🙌🏻
Some favorite quotes:
-She was trapped in her own skin, held captive by her despair.
-Plunged into darkness, her ancestors waited, praying to see the sun once again.
I totally loved Holly’s debut novel. The mental health themes were on point, and it was so refreshing to read a book centered around mental health and the impact of using a pill to control our energy and emotions. The characters were relatable, and the dystopian aspect was really creative. There were a lot of twists and turns throughout the book that kept me engaged, and I’m excited for Book 2! 🙌🏻
Some favorite quotes:
-She was trapped in her own skin, held captive by her despair.
-Plunged into darkness, her ancestors waited, praying to see the sun once again.
September 24, 2024
Wow wow WOW! I am in awe of Holly’s voice and writing style! This book hooked me immediately. It was so relatable to the time of life I’m in right now; a parent with kids. The world was so unique, and the elemental powers based on emotions is a concept I’ve never heard of. The pacing is perfect. The character developments are amazing. You feel connected to each character and are invested in the outcome of the story. Stakes are high, and everything is connected in a fascinating way. I highly recommend this book!
October 5, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I had the honor and privilege of being an ARC reader for this amazing Author. This book is amazing!!! I didn't want to put it down. If you have never read a Dystopian read, this is the one you want to read! The world building is not too intense but gives you such a setting to bring these characters to life! I love that the main characters are adults that love each other and will do anything to help and keep each other safe. My emotions were pulled into theirs and made me feel what they were going through. As the story builds, you have ups and downs, twists and turns and secrets that you do not see coming.
I had the honor and privilege of being an ARC reader for this amazing Author. This book is amazing!!! I didn't want to put it down. If you have never read a Dystopian read, this is the one you want to read! The world building is not too intense but gives you such a setting to bring these characters to life! I love that the main characters are adults that love each other and will do anything to help and keep each other safe. My emotions were pulled into theirs and made me feel what they were going through. As the story builds, you have ups and downs, twists and turns and secrets that you do not see coming.
October 15, 2024
Wow oh wow Holly did such an amazing job with this book! She somehow made a fictional world with a dystopian feeling seem like a normal world that we would live in. Not only do you get a look at everyone’s emotions 😉 but you get to enjoy their character and life developments. This book takes you on a twist and turn roller coaster as you learn that not everyone is who you think they are and that friendship/love conquers all in the end. Can’t wait for the rest of the series!
November 2, 2024
I love superhero novels, and I love books with mental health themes. Put the two together and ahhh! The characters have powers fueled by different emotions, and suspect things are happening with the government trying to control them. The relationships were so well done, the family dynamics felt real, the characters were lovable, and the powers were FUN! Going from beta reading this book to holding it in my hand was LOVELY! Can't wait for the next one.
August 29, 2025
Okay, this isn’t my typical genre. I usually lean towards thriller/mystery, all types of romance, and fantasy. I’m always open to trying different genres or something I don’t typically read. This book doesn’t have an epilogue like other books do. It just jumps you right in to the story. I was HOOKED from page one. It was so different than what I’ve read before, and I’ve never read a book with this story line. 5 stars for me🥰 I can’t wait to start the next 🫶🏻
September 17, 2024
I was initially a bit confused by the structure of the POVs (reading it in black and white probably didn’t help), but once I understood the layout and the unique artwork page breaks, I came to really appreciate the design, especially the cookies! I was thoroughly invested in the story’s outcome. While the pace was occasionally slower, I loved the story's uniqueness and the awareness it raised. This was a solid debut, and the author did a wonderful job developing a distinctive and engaging story.
October 18, 2024
This book is an excellent introduction to a new series. Focusing on a family gives a fresh change to the dystopian landscape. Includes a very interesting power set reminiscent of the divergent series. If, like me, you grew up reading YA dystopian novels this is a perfect addition, especially for the parents perspective of the world.
October 16, 2024
Wow! What a great book! The story had me hooked the whole time. One of the things I loved about this book is the main characters are adults - parents even. It was such a great perspective to read from the parents viewpoints. I can't wait for the next book!
October 18, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. It was a great dystopian novel and the story was well written. I can’t wait to see where this author will go next!
October 7, 2024
This book is definitely worth a read, I cannot explain how beautifully written it was!
If you love dystopian but want it to be more mature this would be the book for you!! This book is so relatable is many ways and made me feel so many emotions, it was also an easy read! You will feel sad, happy the whole run around for the book!! I cannot wait for the second one!!
I love that emotion’s are people’s powers and some can be more powerful then other etc, if you were looking for a new book to read I would defiantly recommend this one!!
If you love dystopian but want it to be more mature this would be the book for you!! This book is so relatable is many ways and made me feel so many emotions, it was also an easy read! You will feel sad, happy the whole run around for the book!! I cannot wait for the second one!!
I love that emotion’s are people’s powers and some can be more powerful then other etc, if you were looking for a new book to read I would defiantly recommend this one!!
October 16, 2024
Thank you, Holly, for this amazing read. This was a nice, easy read, and the world building was not too complicated. A very emotional sci-fi with character growth, trauma, and love.
There are so many characters that I can relate to in this very urban post-apocalyptic setting. And the parenting style was so much like my own that it gave me the giggles.
If you love a great fantasy sci-fi, you'll wanna pick this up before it hits the shelves on October 15th.
There are so many characters that I can relate to in this very urban post-apocalyptic setting. And the parenting style was so much like my own that it gave me the giggles.
If you love a great fantasy sci-fi, you'll wanna pick this up before it hits the shelves on October 15th.
October 15, 2024
Wow! Just wow! 🤩
I am grateful for the ARC I received and this book did not disappoint. Though it was slower paced, it never felt boring. So excited to see what other books Holly has in store!
I am grateful for the ARC I received and this book did not disappoint. Though it was slower paced, it never felt boring. So excited to see what other books Holly has in store!
September 21, 2024
A dystopian book with a parent couple as the main characters?! That was the premise that drew me into this book, and I'm so glad that it did!
If you are a parent, and you love dystopian books, you should definitely read this! I'm not a parent, but I am in the same age bracket as the main characters, and I also loved it. I grew up reading teenage dystopians like The Hunger Games, and it was really cool seeing this genre that I grew up with grow up with me. As in, here are characters who are still my age (even though I'm much older now) having these high-stakes adventures.
One Spark was such a fun book to read, and I don't normally call dystopian books 'fun,' but I enjoyed this one so much because of the ages of the characters in it (adults, not teenagers) and how they really did feel like normal people saving the world. People dealing with the challenges of everyday work and family life while simultaneously trying to make a difference in the world at large. That felt like a familiar struggle, even if most people will never experience it on the scale that the characters in the book do. To me, that realism grounds the book and makes the characters super relatable.
The two main characters are Jemma and Ben; they are a husband and wife who are separated from each other early on in the novel, and two of the main things driving the plot are Jemma trying to find her husband and Ben trying to get back to his wife and two little boys. The boys are adorable, and I appreciated that they also each came with their own set of challenges and complexities as individuals. (Can you imagine having a little kid capable of setting fire to things every time he gets upset?! Y'all, this is Parenting Level 1000)
I also loved the maturity and the life experience that having older characters brings to the story, while there's also an acknowledgement that adults are still learning how to navigate life too and heal from trauma in the past. Throughout the book, one of the main themes is learning to deal with and release emotions in a healthy way, and the physical manifestations of emotions through the Disparates highlight how important it is to learn that skill (and also how hard it can be when dealing with all the various stressors in life).
I feel like now I've talked for days about the characters and not about the actual plot of the book, and I did not mean to do that because the plot and story world is also amazing--it is seriously a page-turner, like any great dystopian book, with twists you don't see coming!--and I can't wait to discover more about this world that Holly Morgan has created in future books in this series. However, I will not say more because you really just need to go read the book now. You will love it!
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC for this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
If you are a parent, and you love dystopian books, you should definitely read this! I'm not a parent, but I am in the same age bracket as the main characters, and I also loved it. I grew up reading teenage dystopians like The Hunger Games, and it was really cool seeing this genre that I grew up with grow up with me. As in, here are characters who are still my age (even though I'm much older now) having these high-stakes adventures.
One Spark was such a fun book to read, and I don't normally call dystopian books 'fun,' but I enjoyed this one so much because of the ages of the characters in it (adults, not teenagers) and how they really did feel like normal people saving the world. People dealing with the challenges of everyday work and family life while simultaneously trying to make a difference in the world at large. That felt like a familiar struggle, even if most people will never experience it on the scale that the characters in the book do. To me, that realism grounds the book and makes the characters super relatable.
The two main characters are Jemma and Ben; they are a husband and wife who are separated from each other early on in the novel, and two of the main things driving the plot are Jemma trying to find her husband and Ben trying to get back to his wife and two little boys. The boys are adorable, and I appreciated that they also each came with their own set of challenges and complexities as individuals. (Can you imagine having a little kid capable of setting fire to things every time he gets upset?! Y'all, this is Parenting Level 1000)
I also loved the maturity and the life experience that having older characters brings to the story, while there's also an acknowledgement that adults are still learning how to navigate life too and heal from trauma in the past. Throughout the book, one of the main themes is learning to deal with and release emotions in a healthy way, and the physical manifestations of emotions through the Disparates highlight how important it is to learn that skill (and also how hard it can be when dealing with all the various stressors in life).
I feel like now I've talked for days about the characters and not about the actual plot of the book, and I did not mean to do that because the plot and story world is also amazing--it is seriously a page-turner, like any great dystopian book, with twists you don't see coming!--and I can't wait to discover more about this world that Holly Morgan has created in future books in this series. However, I will not say more because you really just need to go read the book now. You will love it!
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC for this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 22, 2025
I don’t think elemental powers connected to emotions is a new concept, but it FEELS new in One Spark, because it’s never been done like this before. This book follows Jemma and Ben Hodgerton, a set of parents in a world where Disparate energy (aka emotional superpowers) is feared and controlled. They fight for their kids, their relationship, and a better world.
This book has a strong, well-done storyline. There are layers to the conflict that help build the world, that will support the series conflicts, and that make the story more complex and enjoyable. The world feels REAL, with real problems and social expectations and biases. The author weaves together multiple points of view to show the different layers to the conflicts the cast of characters faces. I did expect, in a story that features emotions so heavily, that the emotions of the characters would be one of the strongest elements of this book, and for me, that wasn’t the case. As a reader, I struggled to feel some character’s emotions along with them, when I expected to be in their feelings every step of the way.
Plotlines shine in this multiple point of view, Dystopian novel with a large cast of characters. If you love Dystopian novels, if you love elemental superpowers, if you love the idea of emotions giving you superpowers, if you want to see how parents can manage life and saving the world all mixed together, you’ll enjoy One Spark.
This book has a strong, well-done storyline. There are layers to the conflict that help build the world, that will support the series conflicts, and that make the story more complex and enjoyable. The world feels REAL, with real problems and social expectations and biases. The author weaves together multiple points of view to show the different layers to the conflicts the cast of characters faces. I did expect, in a story that features emotions so heavily, that the emotions of the characters would be one of the strongest elements of this book, and for me, that wasn’t the case. As a reader, I struggled to feel some character’s emotions along with them, when I expected to be in their feelings every step of the way.
Plotlines shine in this multiple point of view, Dystopian novel with a large cast of characters. If you love Dystopian novels, if you love elemental superpowers, if you love the idea of emotions giving you superpowers, if you want to see how parents can manage life and saving the world all mixed together, you’ll enjoy One Spark.
October 7, 2024
One Spark by Holly D. Morgan is a brilliantly written adult dystopian with a smidge of urban fantasy. The main characters Ben and Jemma are parents to two young boys, one with a rambunctious energy. Emotions are dangerous in this world, suppressed by a pill. After one terrible accusation, Ben and Jemma are thrown onto separate paths. Who can they trust? Are the pills helping or hurting citizens? How are Ben and Jemma going to get back to one another? More importantly, is it right to change someone's brain?
Y'all this is an amazing book. I had the honor of beta reading for Holly and I loved it so much from the start! She's a brilliant writer, her world building and power structure is unique and interesting. Not overbearing at all. She really pulled me into the emotions the characters were feeling. (I'd totally be the electricity.) Holly weaves parenting, marriage, and every day struggles into her story convincingly. I laughed and laughed at all the parenting problems Ben and Jemma were facing, as they were so similar to my own. One Spark is a page turner that I absolutely binge read. This is not a cookie-cutter story, but a heartwarming, original story full of twists and turns that kept me wondering and reading on into the late night. Y'all go read this book, especially if you're a parent. It was a wonderful read.
Y'all this is an amazing book. I had the honor of beta reading for Holly and I loved it so much from the start! She's a brilliant writer, her world building and power structure is unique and interesting. Not overbearing at all. She really pulled me into the emotions the characters were feeling. (I'd totally be the electricity.) Holly weaves parenting, marriage, and every day struggles into her story convincingly. I laughed and laughed at all the parenting problems Ben and Jemma were facing, as they were so similar to my own. One Spark is a page turner that I absolutely binge read. This is not a cookie-cutter story, but a heartwarming, original story full of twists and turns that kept me wondering and reading on into the late night. Y'all go read this book, especially if you're a parent. It was a wonderful read.
December 3, 2024
🧡 Superpowers tied to emotions
⚡ Corrupt Government
🧡 Parent Protagonists
⚡ Multi-POV
🧡 Secret Organization
⚡ Post Apocalyptic
🧡 Mental Health Rep
⚡ Hidden Evil Plot to Uncover
Review:
If you're looking for an adult dystopian fantasy with PARENTS as the protagonists that has an INCREDIBLE message.... You NEED to read One Spark!!
Holly does an excellent job at creating real characters who struggle against real life problems. Having parents (even though I'm not one yet) as the heroes was a super refreshing approach. It added to the realism of the plot and serves as a great reminder that becoming a parent is not something that denies your purpose in life.
The emotionally linked powers were incredibly well done and did an excellent job of highlighting what society would likely have us do if they existed. I can't wait to read whatever Holly puts out next and continue in the world of Jenna and Ben!!
Embrace. Your. Emotions.
⚡ Corrupt Government
🧡 Parent Protagonists
⚡ Multi-POV
🧡 Secret Organization
⚡ Post Apocalyptic
🧡 Mental Health Rep
⚡ Hidden Evil Plot to Uncover
Review:
If you're looking for an adult dystopian fantasy with PARENTS as the protagonists that has an INCREDIBLE message.... You NEED to read One Spark!!
Holly does an excellent job at creating real characters who struggle against real life problems. Having parents (even though I'm not one yet) as the heroes was a super refreshing approach. It added to the realism of the plot and serves as a great reminder that becoming a parent is not something that denies your purpose in life.
The emotionally linked powers were incredibly well done and did an excellent job of highlighting what society would likely have us do if they existed. I can't wait to read whatever Holly puts out next and continue in the world of Jenna and Ben!!
Embrace. Your. Emotions.
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