What do you think?
Rate this book
Litmus #3
Saving Illyana
When Illyana is abducted right under the noses of her extremely powerful family, the only question Illyana can't find an answer to is why.
To survive, she’s given two choices—both of which compromise the morals she's been raised with.
Can Illyana get herself out before she becomes collateral damage?
**Saving Illyana is Upper YA and recommended for those over the age of 15 due to swearing**
To survive, she’s given two choices—both of which compromise the morals she's been raised with.
Can Illyana get herself out before she becomes collateral damage?
**Saving Illyana is Upper YA and recommended for those over the age of 15 due to swearing**
- GenresDystopia
304 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 23, 2017
42 people are currently reading
43 people want to read
About the author
Kayla Howarth
8 books189 followersAs a writer, I lead an extremely exciting life. When I'm not base jumping, playing my guitar and singing for a sold-out crowd, or having tea with the queen... Okay, all of these things are lies.
The truth is, I live on the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia, with my husband and son and you'll most likely find me with my laptop on my lap and a coffee in my hand.
Obsessed with YA fiction, I'm still a teenager at heart and live all of my exciting experiences through reading and writing.
The truth is, I live on the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia, with my husband and son and you'll most likely find me with my laptop on my lap and a coffee in my hand.
Obsessed with YA fiction, I'm still a teenager at heart and live all of my exciting experiences through reading and writing.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
January 17, 2017
*** SPOILERS FROM BOOK 2 ***
Saving Illyana begins where 'Protecting William' left off. Surrounded by her family and friends, some of the most powerful immune's imaginable, Illyana is kidnapped during Nuka and Brett's wedding. Her mother had trained her for this all her life, but she soon learns, there are some things that you can never be prepared for. Her kidnappers and the motivations behind it are one of them. Her world has always been black and white and now now she is suddenly thrown into a world of various shades of gray. Will she be able to protect everyone she loves, or even herself in the end?
Holy wow! What an ending to this series! This was one amazing thrill ride from beginning to end. I think the author pulled out all the stops on this one, so definitely buckle up. The storyline is tense and electrifying, begging to be read. I started it earlier in the afternoon, and then stayed up well pass my bedtime for 'just one more chapter', until I finished the book. Waking up to a 'book hangover' is always a sign of a great book in my opinion.
Kayla Howarth has an amazing ability to bring characters to life through her books. All of her characters feel like long lost family members that you just cannot wait to reunite with. Illyana is no exception to that rule. A strong girl whose quick on her feet, with a bit of a snarky sense of humor, she'll remind you of Allira in her own youth. The surrounding cast are each given their moments to shine as well with their unique personalities that propel the story.
I can't say that I like this series better than the 'Institute Series', if anything, they're both equally great. What I can say is that Kayla Howarth's talent as a writer has grown exponentially with each book. She's more than hit her stride and it's pure joy to delve into each of her stories. If you haven't read the 'Institute Series' yet, then go back and find out how it all started.
Saving Illyana begins where 'Protecting William' left off. Surrounded by her family and friends, some of the most powerful immune's imaginable, Illyana is kidnapped during Nuka and Brett's wedding. Her mother had trained her for this all her life, but she soon learns, there are some things that you can never be prepared for. Her kidnappers and the motivations behind it are one of them. Her world has always been black and white and now now she is suddenly thrown into a world of various shades of gray. Will she be able to protect everyone she loves, or even herself in the end?
Holy wow! What an ending to this series! This was one amazing thrill ride from beginning to end. I think the author pulled out all the stops on this one, so definitely buckle up. The storyline is tense and electrifying, begging to be read. I started it earlier in the afternoon, and then stayed up well pass my bedtime for 'just one more chapter', until I finished the book. Waking up to a 'book hangover' is always a sign of a great book in my opinion.
Kayla Howarth has an amazing ability to bring characters to life through her books. All of her characters feel like long lost family members that you just cannot wait to reunite with. Illyana is no exception to that rule. A strong girl whose quick on her feet, with a bit of a snarky sense of humor, she'll remind you of Allira in her own youth. The surrounding cast are each given their moments to shine as well with their unique personalities that propel the story.
I can't say that I like this series better than the 'Institute Series', if anything, they're both equally great. What I can say is that Kayla Howarth's talent as a writer has grown exponentially with each book. She's more than hit her stride and it's pure joy to delve into each of her stories. If you haven't read the 'Institute Series' yet, then go back and find out how it all started.
February 9, 2017
Oh wow. What a way to end the series. I'm such at a loss of words because part of me knows once I write this review, the series is over. And that makes me very sad. I have read every single installment starting with the Institute, and I loved every single book. The world created by Ms. Howarth is incredible, and the journey has been so much fun. I really hate seeing it end.
Illy begins where Williams's story ends. And we waste no time jumping into action. Then begins the quest of getting Illy back home. Or can she go back home? Ahhhh. You have to read to find out.
I feel like I've practically raised these characters. I've watched them from birth to practically adulthood, so I was pulled right into the story.
Saving Illy is a great ending to the fabulous defective world. I highly recommend this series. Start with losing Nuka or from the beginning of it all with the Institute. You won't be disappointed either way. Although you may be missing out if you bypass The Institute.
Illy begins where Williams's story ends. And we waste no time jumping into action. Then begins the quest of getting Illy back home. Or can she go back home? Ahhhh. You have to read to find out.
I feel like I've practically raised these characters. I've watched them from birth to practically adulthood, so I was pulled right into the story.
Saving Illy is a great ending to the fabulous defective world. I highly recommend this series. Start with losing Nuka or from the beginning of it all with the Institute. You won't be disappointed either way. Although you may be missing out if you bypass The Institute.
January 16, 2017
Wow. Amazing book. As everyone has said, it is sad to see this series end, and this book is the perfect ending. I really love the way Kayla led us through the lives of the family members, with 3 books for Mom, giving a lot of space for character development, and to really establish the setting in this world she has created. Then she gives us a book for each of the children, and with the setting already established, she is able to pull off writing a masterpiece without having to spend a lot of time building the world, but instead is able to put everything into the story for each of the kids. Very well done.
If you haven't read the rest of the series, start at the beginning and work your way through all of the books. It will be well worth your time, and you will be led through an incredible story that will leave you really emotionally attached to the characters. Very few authors accomplish this so well.
If you haven't read the rest of the series, start at the beginning and work your way through all of the books. It will be well worth your time, and you will be led through an incredible story that will leave you really emotionally attached to the characters. Very few authors accomplish this so well.
January 16, 2017
Kidnapping, family, and Jazz Fingers Oh My!
Kayla Howarth, does not disappoint in this final book in the Institute/Litmas series’. The end of this series is bitter sweet but I really can’t think of a better way to put the world of the Immune to rest and finish what was started in the beginning with the Institute. Kayla found a way to bring an idea to life and create a world around it that spans years and multiple families and can reach all types of readers! I say well done you!!!
********** Possible Spoiler Warning proceeded with caution!!!********************************
There are births, deaths, relationships, families and Jazz fingers! Yes, I said jazz fingers!! Illy’s adventure begins at the wedding with her and Seth in a compromising situation where we learn the true dynamic of their “relationship”. We see a complete evolution in Illy that I find to be not surprising in how strong willed and minded her character seems to be in the small snippets we have seen of her in previous books. Illy proves she may be the baby of the family but she is just as strong if not stronger than famous mother when she is forced to face a kidnapping and threat on her life. She proves to be completely adaptable but in the best way while still holding on to her beliefs and morals. She makes new friends in her newly developed team and family and finally gets her chance at a real relationship. We get to see the return of some slightly mentioned characters who develop life in Illy’s world and help her to become the courageous, yet slightly mouthy, wonderful character she was always meant to be proving that despite the title Illyana never really needed saving she had it handled all on her own in her own time.
Kayla Howarth, does not disappoint in this final book in the Institute/Litmas series’. The end of this series is bitter sweet but I really can’t think of a better way to put the world of the Immune to rest and finish what was started in the beginning with the Institute. Kayla found a way to bring an idea to life and create a world around it that spans years and multiple families and can reach all types of readers! I say well done you!!!
********** Possible Spoiler Warning proceeded with caution!!!********************************
There are births, deaths, relationships, families and Jazz fingers! Yes, I said jazz fingers!! Illy’s adventure begins at the wedding with her and Seth in a compromising situation where we learn the true dynamic of their “relationship”. We see a complete evolution in Illy that I find to be not surprising in how strong willed and minded her character seems to be in the small snippets we have seen of her in previous books. Illy proves she may be the baby of the family but she is just as strong if not stronger than famous mother when she is forced to face a kidnapping and threat on her life. She proves to be completely adaptable but in the best way while still holding on to her beliefs and morals. She makes new friends in her newly developed team and family and finally gets her chance at a real relationship. We get to see the return of some slightly mentioned characters who develop life in Illy’s world and help her to become the courageous, yet slightly mouthy, wonderful character she was always meant to be proving that despite the title Illyana never really needed saving she had it handled all on her own in her own time.
March 2, 2017
I always get wistful when I come to the end of a series, and this being the SECOND series in Kayla Howarth's "Institute" Universe, I am especially wistful. That being said, Saving Illyana was, for me, easily the best in the Litmus series. This series, along with the aforementioned Institute series, are two of the best trilogies I've ever read.
No one writes snappy, snarky dialogue like Ms. Howarth, and that is just the tip of the iceberg. The characters, all gazillion of them, are always well-written, fleshed out, and feel real no matter what funky powers, styles or hairdos they have. (Linc was a personal fave of mine in this one, wink.) The relationships, if you can keep track of them, feel genuine and not forced, and .... well, everything. Everything in this book is gold. I will let others explain the plot, but it moves along at a nice clip and never once drags.
And so, with wet hanky in hand, I must bid this universe adieu. I have followed Allira Daniels and her offspring through trials and tribulations galore, and enjoyed every moment of it. With a heavy heart, I offer my heartfelt thanks to Ms. Howarth for penning such a magnificent series of books.
No one writes snappy, snarky dialogue like Ms. Howarth, and that is just the tip of the iceberg. The characters, all gazillion of them, are always well-written, fleshed out, and feel real no matter what funky powers, styles or hairdos they have. (Linc was a personal fave of mine in this one, wink.) The relationships, if you can keep track of them, feel genuine and not forced, and .... well, everything. Everything in this book is gold. I will let others explain the plot, but it moves along at a nice clip and never once drags.
And so, with wet hanky in hand, I must bid this universe adieu. I have followed Allira Daniels and her offspring through trials and tribulations galore, and enjoyed every moment of it. With a heavy heart, I offer my heartfelt thanks to Ms. Howarth for penning such a magnificent series of books.
May 8, 2019
I did not enjoy the swearing....it seemed to interfere with conversations between the characters. The storyline was very good. It's about a teenage girl with powers who gets "stolen" by others that have powers. One of the powers inhibits other powers, and that's how they stole her without her family knowing. They were alert, but couldn't use their powers. Illyana tries to escape, but does not get away. They are too fast for her. Not being able to escape, she takes a different approach by getting to know her captors, they are nice to her. She becomes friends with them. until it's time to kill her. I cannot give away the ending, but I really liked it.
May 7, 2017
Illyana is awesome!
Well I went from loving Allira to Nuka to Sasha and now Illyana. These women are truly amazing, fierce, headstrong, and badass. Saving Illyana is bittersweet because I was so excited to read this but also sad because this is the last of the immunes. I love this whole world and I definitely recommend the Litmus series and the Defective series.
Well I went from loving Allira to Nuka to Sasha and now Illyana. These women are truly amazing, fierce, headstrong, and badass. Saving Illyana is bittersweet because I was so excited to read this but also sad because this is the last of the immunes. I love this whole world and I definitely recommend the Litmus series and the Defective series.
August 12, 2017
Sad to see the end of the series. Sure was hoping the gang would all have found someone. An Immune President awesome and he is not straight either. Wow is some ways this is so backwards with the technology and so advanced that a president who is not a "normal and straight guy" could be president.
September 23, 2017
Love this series!
I loved the Litmus Series; and that some of the characters in The Institute Series are in them as well. I laughed and teared up a little in these books. I can't wait to read more of Kayla Howarth's books.
I loved the Litmus Series; and that some of the characters in The Institute Series are in them as well. I laughed and teared up a little in these books. I can't wait to read more of Kayla Howarth's books.
February 8, 2020
This book will keep you on your toes , from cover to cover. Illyana, although kidnapped, shows us how to adapt to Any given situation. Thank you for another great series! I highly recommend this to anyone who has a knack for adventure!
November 12, 2019
Excellent
What an absolutely excellent final book in the Litmus series. Once again, I fell in love with the various characters, even Linc lol!
What an absolutely excellent final book in the Litmus series. Once again, I fell in love with the various characters, even Linc lol!
March 6, 2017
OMG So amazing. Just sad that I have come to the end. *sighs* I could read many many more books! lol The whole series, I might just have to come back to it at some point. It was so amazing. The more dystopia I read the more hooked I become. :D
July 4, 2017
I'm so sad to see this series end. It's definitely been a wild ride and I wish it could go on and on. But Illyana is the last of Lia's kids, the last one with a story who has a direct connection to everything that happened in the first series. Litmus may not be around anymore, but a lot of the sentiments expressed there are still prevalent. People hate the control the government is trying to put on them and Allira Daniels is a big part of that.
So, they kidnap her daughter. Is ransom the goal or do they have something more sinister in mind?
And what about Illyana? She has choices to make as she gets to know her captives and starts to realize the world isn't black and white.
Though she's not quite as likable as her brother or sister, Illyana has a strength that mesmerizes the reader. You're not sure if she'll always make the right decision, but you never doubt that she'll at least make a decision rather than hiding away. She'll do what she believes is right. She'll protect the people she loves even if it means never seeing them again. Love is fickle, but respect is constant and Illyana gains her audience's respect with her actions and her will.
So, they kidnap her daughter. Is ransom the goal or do they have something more sinister in mind?
And what about Illyana? She has choices to make as she gets to know her captives and starts to realize the world isn't black and white.
Though she's not quite as likable as her brother or sister, Illyana has a strength that mesmerizes the reader. You're not sure if she'll always make the right decision, but you never doubt that she'll at least make a decision rather than hiding away. She'll do what she believes is right. She'll protect the people she loves even if it means never seeing them again. Love is fickle, but respect is constant and Illyana gains her audience's respect with her actions and her will.
January 16, 2017
I was very happy about Illy's story but also really upset to see it end. The last installment didn't disappoint either. There's action, romance, and closure. Kayla Howarth leaves no loose ends with Nuka and William too, which is what I like to see as a fan of the whole series.
Illy is kidnapped, but her captures aren't all bad and she soon faces dilemmas. Her world is thrown upside down and it was enjoyable to read how she reacted in the situations she was put in. I really enjoyed this read and loved that Illy had a strong personality of her own. It brought me back to the Institute series and Allira.
Don't miss out on the ending of the amazing defective world that Kayla Howarth created.
Illy is kidnapped, but her captures aren't all bad and she soon faces dilemmas. Her world is thrown upside down and it was enjoyable to read how she reacted in the situations she was put in. I really enjoyed this read and loved that Illy had a strong personality of her own. It brought me back to the Institute series and Allira.
Don't miss out on the ending of the amazing defective world that Kayla Howarth created.
January 18, 2017
What can I say? This is a perfect end to a series that I have completely fallen in love with and I'm so sad to say goodbye.
Saving Illyana is the end of the Litmus and the Institute series, both which can be read on their own but enjoyed more if read together. I have enjoyed reading about all of these characters over the years and I don't want to let them go :(
I won't go into detail. There is way too much detail to even try. But if you want to read a beautifully crafted story with kick-ass action, spunky, hilarious characters, special powers, an underground fighting ring and love stories that tear at your heartstrings, then this series is for you. So what are you waiting for? Start it today. Like every other book of Ms. Howarth's, 5 out of 5 well deserved stars. Now I must go cry :(
Saving Illyana is the end of the Litmus and the Institute series, both which can be read on their own but enjoyed more if read together. I have enjoyed reading about all of these characters over the years and I don't want to let them go :(
I won't go into detail. There is way too much detail to even try. But if you want to read a beautifully crafted story with kick-ass action, spunky, hilarious characters, special powers, an underground fighting ring and love stories that tear at your heartstrings, then this series is for you. So what are you waiting for? Start it today. Like every other book of Ms. Howarth's, 5 out of 5 well deserved stars. Now I must go cry :(
April 4, 2017
I can’t believe this is the last book in the Litmus world. I was excited to finally read Ilyana’s story while sad to see this series end.
Kidnapped from her family Illyana soon discovers her kidnappers aren’t all they might seem and she is thrown into a whole new world where she must decide between two impossible options. Without giving too much away, Saving Illyana is full of action, feisty characters and even a bit of romance.
Do yourself a favour and read the entire Litmus Series!
Kidnapped from her family Illyana soon discovers her kidnappers aren’t all they might seem and she is thrown into a whole new world where she must decide between two impossible options. Without giving too much away, Saving Illyana is full of action, feisty characters and even a bit of romance.
Do yourself a favour and read the entire Litmus Series!
January 22, 2017
Wow. This book was a great ending to a wonderful series, and I'm so sad it's over.
**Spoilers from book 2**
Illyana's journey begins where Protecting William left off. The family is celebrating Nuka's wedding, and Illy is kidnapped. She's faced with many challenges, including making a choice between two options that are both morally wrong in her mind. Her world is no longer black and white, good and evil. Will she be able to save her loved ones?
Kayla Howarth did an amazing job with this series. I fell in love with the characters right away, and felt so connected to them. I would definitely recommend The Institute and Litmus series. It's well worth your time.
**Spoilers from book 2**
Illyana's journey begins where Protecting William left off. The family is celebrating Nuka's wedding, and Illy is kidnapped. She's faced with many challenges, including making a choice between two options that are both morally wrong in her mind. Her world is no longer black and white, good and evil. Will she be able to save her loved ones?
Kayla Howarth did an amazing job with this series. I fell in love with the characters right away, and felt so connected to them. I would definitely recommend The Institute and Litmus series. It's well worth your time.
May 3, 2017
Having loved the whole series, I feel that this book wrapped it up brilliantly!
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews