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Ignite the Shadows #1
Ignite the Shadows
I wish I was crazy because the truth is far worse…
Shadows take possession of my body and mind and make me do crazy things, like speeding through the streets of Seattle with cop cars hot on my tail. It’s been this way ever since I can remember, and it isn’t getting better. In fact, I think I’m about to freaking lose it.
When I finally blow, it isn’t pretty. I wreck my bike and barely escape with my life while trying to get away from James McCray, the leader of a rebellious group known as IgNiTe.
His presence makes the shadows in my head go nuts until I feel my brain will explode.
What gives?
My symptoms and my weak ability to control them are immediately noticed by James. Soon, he recruits me into IgNiTe and reveals its secrets.
It turns out I’m not insane, but man, a straightjacket would be better because...
I’m infected.
Something lives inside of me, and if I don’t learn to control it, it will permanently take over my brain, the way it has done to half the people in Seattle. It turns out the world is under attack, and it’s time to fight for the survival of our kind.
For fans of dark urban fantasy and doomsday fiction. Ignite the Shadows has intrigue, romance, and a heck of a lot of action.
Shadows take possession of my body and mind and make me do crazy things, like speeding through the streets of Seattle with cop cars hot on my tail. It’s been this way ever since I can remember, and it isn’t getting better. In fact, I think I’m about to freaking lose it.
When I finally blow, it isn’t pretty. I wreck my bike and barely escape with my life while trying to get away from James McCray, the leader of a rebellious group known as IgNiTe.
His presence makes the shadows in my head go nuts until I feel my brain will explode.
What gives?
My symptoms and my weak ability to control them are immediately noticed by James. Soon, he recruits me into IgNiTe and reveals its secrets.
It turns out I’m not insane, but man, a straightjacket would be better because...
I’m infected.
Something lives inside of me, and if I don’t learn to control it, it will permanently take over my brain, the way it has done to half the people in Seattle. It turns out the world is under attack, and it’s time to fight for the survival of our kind.
For fans of dark urban fantasy and doomsday fiction. Ignite the Shadows has intrigue, romance, and a heck of a lot of action.
379 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 23, 2015
43 people are currently reading
1414 people want to read
About the author
Ingrid Seymour
116 books966 followersIngrid Seymour is a USA Today Bestselling Author. When she’s not writing books, she spends her time working as a software engineer, cooking exotic recipes, hanging out with her family and working out. She writes young adult and new adult fiction in a variety of genres, including Sci-Fi, urban fantasy, romance, paranormal and horror.
Her favorite outings involve a trip to the library or bookstore where she immediately gravitates toward the YA section. She’s an avid reader and fangirl of many amazing books. She is a dreamer and a fighter who believes perseverance and hard work can make dreams come true.
She lives in Birmingham, AL with her husband, two kids and a cat named Ossie.
Her favorite outings involve a trip to the library or bookstore where she immediately gravitates toward the YA section. She’s an avid reader and fangirl of many amazing books. She is a dreamer and a fighter who believes perseverance and hard work can make dreams come true.
She lives in Birmingham, AL with her husband, two kids and a cat named Ossie.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
March 31, 2020
God, how I loved writing this book!!!
March 19, 2021
Here's the fuller review: this was such an interesting book, and it's kinda sad I gave this 3 stars because I felt like it had SO MUCH POTENTIAL. But credit to Ingrid Seymour (I love her books), this was one of the most unique and coolest dystopian books I've read (but nothing will beat the Maze Runner for me).
The idea is really cool: creatures that infiltrate your body and take control of your mind and body, and the unique ones are the ones that can suppress it? Count me in! I also got Marie Lu vibes from this book with the technology and sci-fi hints that were thrown in.
At times, the writing felt a little long winded and felt like it wasn't going anywhere, but overall a really good book!
→ 3.5 stars
The idea is really cool: creatures that infiltrate your body and take control of your mind and body, and the unique ones are the ones that can suppress it? Count me in! I also got Marie Lu vibes from this book with the technology and sci-fi hints that were thrown in.
At times, the writing felt a little long winded and felt like it wasn't going anywhere, but overall a really good book!
→ 3.5 stars
August 12, 2015
Ignite the Shadows is so fast-faced and action-packed that I found myself tearing through the pages. We are thrust straight into the action which makes for a really strong and intense opening. It is a sci-fi story but with enough realism that you can easily picture the events happening in our everyday world.
Marci has lived most of her life being plagued by what she calls "shadows": spectres that take over her body so much so that she loses control of herself. When she and her friend, Xave, are spying on a group known as IgNiTe, she gets more than she bargains for when the leader recognises the agony she is facing and quickly persuades her to join their group. He too is a sufferer and reveals that there are many more just like them; people who have been infected by monsters known as Eklyptors, and IgNiTe is a resistance group determined to eliminate them.
I really liked Marci. She is strong and independent and spends her time creating code and hacking computers. She rides around on a motorcycle and isn't afraid to speak her mind or stand up to people. I also liked the leader of the resistance, James, and found him to be very intriguing. He's a bit mysterious and I wasn't always sure if I could trust him but ultimately he was very likeable. I think the characters as a whole are excellently written. There's a mixed bunch of people and everyone stands out; they each have distinct personalities, and I could easily remember who was who. With that being said, I would have liked some of the characters to have had more development. For example, there is a subplot of Marci's long-lost twin brother, Luke, being rediscovered and I wanted to get to know more about him. I think there's going to be a lot more from him in the next book though so I can understand why he was a bit missing here.
There is a small romance element and I actually really enjoyed it. It is in the very early stages as Marci and Xave are just beginning to learn how to be more than friends but there was a real chemistry between them which I appreciated. Xave is really likable and I'm looking forward to seeing how that develops.
The Eklyptors were downright creepy which is exactly as it should be. These monsters have the ability to grow scales and other unworldly features and spend their time infecting other people. IgNiTe are fighting against these monsters and hellbent on destroying them which results in some dangerous situations which were extremely gripping. Those that have been infected, such as Marci, also have the ability to develop their own "powers" which was fascinating.
Overall I think this was a good sci-fi with a very fast-paced and intriguing plot. The revelation in the epilogue has left the door open for an exciting sequel which I'm looking forward to reading.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
All reviews are also posted to my blog: Nicola Reads YA
Marci has lived most of her life being plagued by what she calls "shadows": spectres that take over her body so much so that she loses control of herself. When she and her friend, Xave, are spying on a group known as IgNiTe, she gets more than she bargains for when the leader recognises the agony she is facing and quickly persuades her to join their group. He too is a sufferer and reveals that there are many more just like them; people who have been infected by monsters known as Eklyptors, and IgNiTe is a resistance group determined to eliminate them.
I really liked Marci. She is strong and independent and spends her time creating code and hacking computers. She rides around on a motorcycle and isn't afraid to speak her mind or stand up to people. I also liked the leader of the resistance, James, and found him to be very intriguing. He's a bit mysterious and I wasn't always sure if I could trust him but ultimately he was very likeable. I think the characters as a whole are excellently written. There's a mixed bunch of people and everyone stands out; they each have distinct personalities, and I could easily remember who was who. With that being said, I would have liked some of the characters to have had more development. For example, there is a subplot of Marci's long-lost twin brother, Luke, being rediscovered and I wanted to get to know more about him. I think there's going to be a lot more from him in the next book though so I can understand why he was a bit missing here.
There is a small romance element and I actually really enjoyed it. It is in the very early stages as Marci and Xave are just beginning to learn how to be more than friends but there was a real chemistry between them which I appreciated. Xave is really likable and I'm looking forward to seeing how that develops.
The Eklyptors were downright creepy which is exactly as it should be. These monsters have the ability to grow scales and other unworldly features and spend their time infecting other people. IgNiTe are fighting against these monsters and hellbent on destroying them which results in some dangerous situations which were extremely gripping. Those that have been infected, such as Marci, also have the ability to develop their own "powers" which was fascinating.
Overall I think this was a good sci-fi with a very fast-paced and intriguing plot. The revelation in the epilogue has left the door open for an exciting sequel which I'm looking forward to reading.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
All reviews are also posted to my blog: Nicola Reads YA
February 21, 2020
Full Review on The Candid Cover
Ignite the Shadows by Ingrid Seymour is a book that is impossible to put down! Once you start reading, the ride begins and there is no turning back. This book is an action-packed sci-fi/fantasy novel that is seemingly real and harbours a female character so gutsy that the reader will be craving more.
Ignite the Shadows is perfect for fans of sci-fi/fantasy books. It is very futuristic with monsters called Eklyptors that have the ability to grow scales, wings, etc. This book tells the story of a group of people, called IgNiTe, who have been “infected” by these monsters and create a resistance to stop them. IgNiTe are in a constant battle with the Eklyptors, which makes for a gripping read!
Ingrid Seymour has created a story that seems so real, it’s downright scary! Ignite the Shadows has the perfect balance between realism and fantasy. It is set in our world, so the reader won’t need to adjust to an unfamiliar setting. However, there are fictional monsters that are undercover and taking over the world. As I was reading, I kept thinking about what it would be like if there were really monsters that appeared to be human and tried to kill us all. Seymour has really depicted an incredible YA sci-fi fantasy novel that will leave readers on the edge of their seats!
The main character in Ignite the Shadows, Marci, is a character that is relatable. Marci is a strong heroine who knows how to defend herself. She doesn’t need a man to defend her, Marci is perfectly capable of fighting for herself. Her kick-ass attitude rings through the novel and really sets the stage for adventure! More books in the young adult genre should be written like this to help bring down gender barriers.
With its jam packed storyline that seems so real and it’s amazing main character, readers are going to entusiastically enjoy the Ignite the Shadows series. Similar to the Shatter Me trilogy by Tahereh Mafi, Ignite the Shadows will satisfy the needs of fans of the fantasy genre. Ingrid Seymour is going to have many fans waiting desperately for the next book (myself included)!
Ignite the Shadows by Ingrid Seymour is a book that is impossible to put down! Once you start reading, the ride begins and there is no turning back. This book is an action-packed sci-fi/fantasy novel that is seemingly real and harbours a female character so gutsy that the reader will be craving more.
Ignite the Shadows is perfect for fans of sci-fi/fantasy books. It is very futuristic with monsters called Eklyptors that have the ability to grow scales, wings, etc. This book tells the story of a group of people, called IgNiTe, who have been “infected” by these monsters and create a resistance to stop them. IgNiTe are in a constant battle with the Eklyptors, which makes for a gripping read!
Ingrid Seymour has created a story that seems so real, it’s downright scary! Ignite the Shadows has the perfect balance between realism and fantasy. It is set in our world, so the reader won’t need to adjust to an unfamiliar setting. However, there are fictional monsters that are undercover and taking over the world. As I was reading, I kept thinking about what it would be like if there were really monsters that appeared to be human and tried to kill us all. Seymour has really depicted an incredible YA sci-fi fantasy novel that will leave readers on the edge of their seats!
The main character in Ignite the Shadows, Marci, is a character that is relatable. Marci is a strong heroine who knows how to defend herself. She doesn’t need a man to defend her, Marci is perfectly capable of fighting for herself. Her kick-ass attitude rings through the novel and really sets the stage for adventure! More books in the young adult genre should be written like this to help bring down gender barriers.
With its jam packed storyline that seems so real and it’s amazing main character, readers are going to entusiastically enjoy the Ignite the Shadows series. Similar to the Shatter Me trilogy by Tahereh Mafi, Ignite the Shadows will satisfy the needs of fans of the fantasy genre. Ingrid Seymour is going to have many fans waiting desperately for the next book (myself included)!
July 21, 2015
IGNITE THE SHADOWS is a fantastic YA book, halfway between science fiction and urban fantasy, with just a dash of creepy horror--enough to make your skin crawl without this book really being horror. It follows Marci, a sixteen-year-old hacker, martial artist, bike lover and all around incredibly great and complex character, who's had to deal most of her life with shadows at the edge of her vision, threatening to take over. Turns out that she, like most of the earth, is infected with parasites who overtake the bodies of their host, and she joins with a small team dedicated to fighting against them.
I really don't want to say too much about the plot. It's a fantastic thriller, that drags you in very early on and refuses to let go. Ingrid Seymor's writing is brilliant -- I honestly have serious jealousy over her skill for carrying emotion and punching you in the gut with it. Add this to a cast of complex characters (can't get enough of James, damnit), all of which seem to have several layers of goals, desires, and secrets, and you've got an incredible story. I loved it from the first to the last page.
I really don't want to say too much about the plot. It's a fantastic thriller, that drags you in very early on and refuses to let go. Ingrid Seymor's writing is brilliant -- I honestly have serious jealousy over her skill for carrying emotion and punching you in the gut with it. Add this to a cast of complex characters (can't get enough of James, damnit), all of which seem to have several layers of goals, desires, and secrets, and you've got an incredible story. I loved it from the first to the last page.
May 9, 2015
I could start off by saying Ignite The Shadows was a “gripping read” or it was “addictive” or may be the blogger-favorite “unputdownable.” But that would be a crock of shit because, to me, Ignite The Shadows was fucking amazing.
I’m not into the whole Sci-Fi thing, and I only read Sci-Fi from authors that are big names in the industry or I’ve read before—which should tell you exactly how picky I am about this genre. But I picked up Ignite The Shadows based only on the synopsis, and might I tell you that it was so much more than I expected.
Ignite The Shadows starts off right in the middle of the action. With not one slow moment in the book, something always happening to keep you engrossed, you get a fair idea of what the book is going to be like just by reading the first five pages. We are introduced to Marcela “Marci” Guerrero and her best friend Xave. Both are running from…something, that is later introduced to the reader as “IgNiTe.” This group of extraordinary people, led by James McCray know more about Marci than she’ll care to admit. The problem is, she doesn’t know whether they’re lying.
I think most readers will love Marci. Sure she made some shitty choices but really. Don’t we all? And in today’s YA scene where everyone is just sick and tired of the weak, scared, prawn heroine, Marci shows more balls than most men in the book. She’s strong but sensitive, brave but selfless, so there’s quite a bit to be said about the stuff she does in the book.
At the cost of giving away a small part of the book, the “shadowy spectres” that you’ve read about in the synopsis are actually these parasitic nightmares that essentially take over the host’s body, called Eklyptors. No one knows their origin, however it is known that Marci is infected. A few instances of what happens to the host after the agent takes complete control are shown, but I’d like to have seen more. I’d like to have seen how these infected people blended seamlessly with the rest of humanity. So, to put it shortly, I thought that maybe I needed to see some more world-building. They were so many things that I thought were touched upon, but not really dived into. Bummer.
But of course, Ignite The Shadows is a series and keeping that in mind, I’d say a lot of groundwork has been laid, spectacularly, might I add, for the rest of the series. Many things lie unsaid, many secrets that Marci still does not know about, which brings me to the next big thing about the book.
James McCray. The mysterious leader of IgNiTe, this guy is bound to get on every one of your nerves. And yet, HOLY SHIT PEOPLE. After Marci, he was my favourite character in the book. He was annoying and brave and a true, true leader to his band of misfits. Marci might have to be careful because damn, James might just become my favourite in the books to come :D
The romance was…meagre. I’d have loved to see more, and yet I understood exactly why it was hardly there. Something I hope gets corrected in the books to come!
I’d refrain from recommending Ignite The Shadows to a particular group of readers, simply because I’m not the greatest fan of Sci-Fi and yet I LOVED this book. So if, like me, you’re looking to push out int a new genre, this book is definitely for you :)
*I was provided a free ecopy of this book in exchange of an honest review. This did not in any way, however, influence the content of this review.*
I’m not into the whole Sci-Fi thing, and I only read Sci-Fi from authors that are big names in the industry or I’ve read before—which should tell you exactly how picky I am about this genre. But I picked up Ignite The Shadows based only on the synopsis, and might I tell you that it was so much more than I expected.
Ignite The Shadows starts off right in the middle of the action. With not one slow moment in the book, something always happening to keep you engrossed, you get a fair idea of what the book is going to be like just by reading the first five pages. We are introduced to Marcela “Marci” Guerrero and her best friend Xave. Both are running from…something, that is later introduced to the reader as “IgNiTe.” This group of extraordinary people, led by James McCray know more about Marci than she’ll care to admit. The problem is, she doesn’t know whether they’re lying.
I think most readers will love Marci. Sure she made some shitty choices but really. Don’t we all? And in today’s YA scene where everyone is just sick and tired of the weak, scared, prawn heroine, Marci shows more balls than most men in the book. She’s strong but sensitive, brave but selfless, so there’s quite a bit to be said about the stuff she does in the book.
At the cost of giving away a small part of the book, the “shadowy spectres” that you’ve read about in the synopsis are actually these parasitic nightmares that essentially take over the host’s body, called Eklyptors. No one knows their origin, however it is known that Marci is infected. A few instances of what happens to the host after the agent takes complete control are shown, but I’d like to have seen more. I’d like to have seen how these infected people blended seamlessly with the rest of humanity. So, to put it shortly, I thought that maybe I needed to see some more world-building. They were so many things that I thought were touched upon, but not really dived into. Bummer.
But of course, Ignite The Shadows is a series and keeping that in mind, I’d say a lot of groundwork has been laid, spectacularly, might I add, for the rest of the series. Many things lie unsaid, many secrets that Marci still does not know about, which brings me to the next big thing about the book.
James McCray. The mysterious leader of IgNiTe, this guy is bound to get on every one of your nerves. And yet, HOLY SHIT PEOPLE. After Marci, he was my favourite character in the book. He was annoying and brave and a true, true leader to his band of misfits. Marci might have to be careful because damn, James might just become my favourite in the books to come :D
The romance was…meagre. I’d have loved to see more, and yet I understood exactly why it was hardly there. Something I hope gets corrected in the books to come!
I’d refrain from recommending Ignite The Shadows to a particular group of readers, simply because I’m not the greatest fan of Sci-Fi and yet I LOVED this book. So if, like me, you’re looking to push out int a new genre, this book is definitely for you :)
*I was provided a free ecopy of this book in exchange of an honest review. This did not in any way, however, influence the content of this review.*
May 11, 2015
WOW! This story is EPIC!! This is by far the best book I've read this year! I hate to compare books, but this one outranks The Hunger Games! The premise of the story is realistic and something that with imagination could be real. I find most books that occur in first person annoying, and I end up not like the main character because they are whiny or too down on themselves - Marci isn't like that. She takes a licking and comes out fighting. She's more worried about getting lost to the shadows than whether or not her hair is a mess. I'll definitely be waiting for the next book in this series.
I love how the author ended it without the cliffhanger. Yes there were unanswered questions, but nothing that left with me with an anxious or bad feeling. It's one of those endings where you know Marci (for the time being) is safe, but her character was just pushed into a situation that will require her to work through something difficult. Can't wait to see which side the twin brother falls to.
I love how the author ended it without the cliffhanger. Yes there were unanswered questions, but nothing that left with me with an anxious or bad feeling. It's one of those endings where you know Marci (for the time being) is safe, but her character was just pushed into a situation that will require her to work through something difficult. Can't wait to see which side the twin brother falls to.
August 4, 2015
I'm not usually one for YA, but this one kept me turning pages through and through. I felt like it had a bit of a Matrix feel - and not in the sense that the world is a simulation (it's not, but there are plenty of astounding secrets lurking in the shadows), but in the sense that I think a brazen techno soundtrack would fit right in. 16-year old Marci Guerrero can hack, she can fight, and when she really taps into her power can do even more. She's a blast to follow through the dangerous underground of Seattle as she discovers that much of the world is infected by parasites that control their bodies, sending their minds to the back seat to sit and watch it happen. I was gripped by the first chapter and unable to let go until the very end!
July 30, 2015
This book is NONSTOP AWESOME! I love the main tension: Marci versus the monster inside her own brain. She's a smart, strong protagonist who fights with everything she can. I love the action, the romance, and especially the ending, and I CAN'T WAIT for book two.
April 12, 2020
“I know what you are..”
For as long as she can remember, sixteen year Marci Guerrero has had to fight the shadows that have threatened to take over her mind. Assuming she is the only one, she has kept her condition under wraps - even from her closest friend Xave.
While accompanying Xave during a failed attempt to secretly spy on his brother, Chris (who is on a clandestine mission for the mysterious group IgNiTe) she meets its leader, James McCray, whose presence causes the shadows to stir into a frenzy. Luckily Marci is able to gain control in time but her symptoms don’t go unnoticed by James, who later tries to recruit her.
Once Marci joins IgNiTe, she learns that half of the worlds population has been infected by sentient parasites known as Eklyptors, who infect their hosts’ brains and eventually supplant them. Although 99% of cases result in the parasites completely taking over their hosts, there appears to be the exceptional 1% like Marci, who are not only able to resist, but over time can be trained to use the parasite to gain access to superhuman abilities. James promises to teach Marci to control her Eklyptor if she will help them in their fight in saving mankind.
Ignite the Shadows is the first exciting instalment of the Ignite the Shadows series which is told solely from the point of view of its protagonist, Marci; a hacker, martial artist and motorcycle enthusiast, who following the death of her father lives with her estranged mother. From the offset, I found myself totally immersed in the premise of the story of a world that is being slowly taken over by sentient parasites with important figures as high up as the president, already infected. Luckily, a small resistance group has formed to fight these beings and the first instalment focuses on how Marci stumbles upon this group and later joins.
Marci is a snarky, impulsive, somewhat jaded protagonist who readers won’t help rooting for. She’s been fighting the parasite in her brain since she was five years old. Since the death of her father, she has to deal with her ailment alone, something which has become increasingly difficult as she’s gotten older. Somehow she’s managed to hide the odd blackout/loss of control episodes from her best friend Xave. The utter fear and helplessness that Marci experiences during these episodes as described by the author was palpable.
While Marci is a strong, flawed and relatable protagonist, the secondary characters were equally complex and three dimensional. James and Aydan in particular were intriguing protagonists and I hope we have the chance to explore their backstory in the next book.
One important aspect of any decent Sci Fi novel is when the author has the reader believing in the world they have created. I feel that the author has excelled in making her world plausible and realistic. The chilling scene where the Eklyptor (complete with tentacles!) is first revealed was genuinely creepy and had the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end. Elliot in particular is an insidious villain whose presence in every scene filled me with utter dread.
In an interesting subplot we learn that Marci’s twin brother Max, was abducted by a doctor after he was born. Marci’s mother was traumatised following the loss of her son and has mostly neglected her daughter. In a strange turn of events, one of Marci’s classmates by the name of Luke turns out to be Max and has now suspiciously insinuated himself into their lives. The question is why?
All in all this was a well executed, fast paced and compelling introduction to an exciting series. Ingrid Seymour has once again done an outstanding job of creating realistic characters that readers will relate to, making her a true mastermind in the YA genre.
For as long as she can remember, sixteen year Marci Guerrero has had to fight the shadows that have threatened to take over her mind. Assuming she is the only one, she has kept her condition under wraps - even from her closest friend Xave.
While accompanying Xave during a failed attempt to secretly spy on his brother, Chris (who is on a clandestine mission for the mysterious group IgNiTe) she meets its leader, James McCray, whose presence causes the shadows to stir into a frenzy. Luckily Marci is able to gain control in time but her symptoms don’t go unnoticed by James, who later tries to recruit her.
Once Marci joins IgNiTe, she learns that half of the worlds population has been infected by sentient parasites known as Eklyptors, who infect their hosts’ brains and eventually supplant them. Although 99% of cases result in the parasites completely taking over their hosts, there appears to be the exceptional 1% like Marci, who are not only able to resist, but over time can be trained to use the parasite to gain access to superhuman abilities. James promises to teach Marci to control her Eklyptor if she will help them in their fight in saving mankind.
Ignite the Shadows is the first exciting instalment of the Ignite the Shadows series which is told solely from the point of view of its protagonist, Marci; a hacker, martial artist and motorcycle enthusiast, who following the death of her father lives with her estranged mother. From the offset, I found myself totally immersed in the premise of the story of a world that is being slowly taken over by sentient parasites with important figures as high up as the president, already infected. Luckily, a small resistance group has formed to fight these beings and the first instalment focuses on how Marci stumbles upon this group and later joins.
Marci is a snarky, impulsive, somewhat jaded protagonist who readers won’t help rooting for. She’s been fighting the parasite in her brain since she was five years old. Since the death of her father, she has to deal with her ailment alone, something which has become increasingly difficult as she’s gotten older. Somehow she’s managed to hide the odd blackout/loss of control episodes from her best friend Xave. The utter fear and helplessness that Marci experiences during these episodes as described by the author was palpable.
While Marci is a strong, flawed and relatable protagonist, the secondary characters were equally complex and three dimensional. James and Aydan in particular were intriguing protagonists and I hope we have the chance to explore their backstory in the next book.
One important aspect of any decent Sci Fi novel is when the author has the reader believing in the world they have created. I feel that the author has excelled in making her world plausible and realistic. The chilling scene where the Eklyptor (complete with tentacles!) is first revealed was genuinely creepy and had the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end. Elliot in particular is an insidious villain whose presence in every scene filled me with utter dread.
In an interesting subplot we learn that Marci’s twin brother Max, was abducted by a doctor after he was born. Marci’s mother was traumatised following the loss of her son and has mostly neglected her daughter. In a strange turn of events, one of Marci’s classmates by the name of Luke turns out to be Max and has now suspiciously insinuated himself into their lives. The question is why?
All in all this was a well executed, fast paced and compelling introduction to an exciting series. Ingrid Seymour has once again done an outstanding job of creating realistic characters that readers will relate to, making her a true mastermind in the YA genre.
April 23, 2015
(4.5 stars :-)
*I received an e-copy in exchange for an honest and fair review*
After devouring the first installment of the Morphid Chronicles, I had high expectations for Ignite the Shadows—because Wow. The MORPHID CHRONICLES (jaw-dropping, seriously. I loved it. You can check out my review of Keeper here: http://tinyurl.com/p2pzb7m. I also have the review up on Amazon and on here at Goodreads)...which is probably why I was in such a state of upheaval for the first eighth of the story.
I'll be frank: I was so excited to get started I forgot to re-read the synopsis before I dove in ^_^', and because of this, I had little to no idea what was going on with Marci for the first five or so chapters. It was frustrating. So...read that synopsis, and keep in mind that Marci is infected, and the shadows are real!
You're going to love this book.
World
Ingrid Seymour has a knack for creating believable, uber-cool and uber-creative 'species'. I was really impressed by the level of scientific explanation given for the Shadows' existence, especially because she integrated it with somewhat fantastical elements. Get excited. It's stellar :).
Characters
In the beginning of the story, Marci wasn't very likeable. Sure, she could hack—cool. Karate skills? Way cool. But her attitude problem, combined with her occasional bouts of irrationality (emotionally contradictory), got under my skin. As I got to know her, though, she really grew on me, and by the end, I loved her. She was unreasonable at times, but she had a lot of spirit.
As for the other characters, well...sometimes they left me scratching my head. I had trouble understanding most of their personalities and motives, never really sure if they were acting. This was especially true of Luke (sure that was intentional, so ok), James (ridiculously tight-lipped level: secret agent), and Aydan (bi-polar?). While a brilliant way to showcase Marci's lack of trust in others—and create suspense/sustain tension—it was grating at times.
Plot
There were moments I flipped pages madly and moments where I meandered, but overall, I really enjoyed the story and I think you will, too. Two things I want to highlight: choices and secret-keeping.
You always have a choice. Yet Marci frequently employs “what choice do I have” thinking to justify her next step(s).
Used once or twice, I guess I could see it, but Marci used it so many times it became an excuse rather than a legitimate plot device. I'm not saying the circumstances weren't tense or serious or undemanding of attention and/or action; it was that her justification of her own involvement, when prefaced with this statement, became questionable. Almost as if it undermined the events themselves, if that makes sense.
For curious people who NEED to know why *raises hand*, Ignite the Shadows is somewhat unkind. As the story progresses and more information is laid out it gets better, but I had some serious struggles with the answer withholding. If I was in Marci's shoes, I don't know that I could've trusted James. Kudos to her for braving the open sea during a storm...and kudos to you if you can make it through without berating Marci in your mind (or aloud).
Overall
Ingrid Seymour is incredibly talented. I'll be snatching up her work in the future; she's secured a spot on my list of favorite YA Urban Fantasy authors :)!
*I received an e-copy in exchange for an honest and fair review*
After devouring the first installment of the Morphid Chronicles, I had high expectations for Ignite the Shadows—because Wow. The MORPHID CHRONICLES (jaw-dropping, seriously. I loved it. You can check out my review of Keeper here: http://tinyurl.com/p2pzb7m. I also have the review up on Amazon and on here at Goodreads)...which is probably why I was in such a state of upheaval for the first eighth of the story.
I'll be frank: I was so excited to get started I forgot to re-read the synopsis before I dove in ^_^', and because of this, I had little to no idea what was going on with Marci for the first five or so chapters. It was frustrating. So...read that synopsis, and keep in mind that Marci is infected, and the shadows are real!
You're going to love this book.
World
Ingrid Seymour has a knack for creating believable, uber-cool and uber-creative 'species'. I was really impressed by the level of scientific explanation given for the Shadows' existence, especially because she integrated it with somewhat fantastical elements. Get excited. It's stellar :).
Characters
In the beginning of the story, Marci wasn't very likeable. Sure, she could hack—cool. Karate skills? Way cool. But her attitude problem, combined with her occasional bouts of irrationality (emotionally contradictory), got under my skin. As I got to know her, though, she really grew on me, and by the end, I loved her. She was unreasonable at times, but she had a lot of spirit.
As for the other characters, well...sometimes they left me scratching my head. I had trouble understanding most of their personalities and motives, never really sure if they were acting. This was especially true of Luke (sure that was intentional, so ok), James (ridiculously tight-lipped level: secret agent), and Aydan (bi-polar?). While a brilliant way to showcase Marci's lack of trust in others—and create suspense/sustain tension—it was grating at times.
Plot
There were moments I flipped pages madly and moments where I meandered, but overall, I really enjoyed the story and I think you will, too. Two things I want to highlight: choices and secret-keeping.
You always have a choice. Yet Marci frequently employs “what choice do I have” thinking to justify her next step(s).
Used once or twice, I guess I could see it, but Marci used it so many times it became an excuse rather than a legitimate plot device. I'm not saying the circumstances weren't tense or serious or undemanding of attention and/or action; it was that her justification of her own involvement, when prefaced with this statement, became questionable. Almost as if it undermined the events themselves, if that makes sense.
For curious people who NEED to know why *raises hand*, Ignite the Shadows is somewhat unkind. As the story progresses and more information is laid out it gets better, but I had some serious struggles with the answer withholding. If I was in Marci's shoes, I don't know that I could've trusted James. Kudos to her for braving the open sea during a storm...and kudos to you if you can make it through without berating Marci in your mind (or aloud).
Overall
Ingrid Seymour is incredibly talented. I'll be snatching up her work in the future; she's secured a spot on my list of favorite YA Urban Fantasy authors :)!
May 7, 2015
What I liked: This book drew me in because of the whole sci-fi/fantasy combo. While not a huge fan of sci-fi, I'm a die-hard fan of fantasy and some of my recent books have show that, yes, there are great books out there that have melded the two genres together in a way that complements one another and make the story work. Ignite the Shadows was another book for me that melded the sci-fi/fantasy genres together in an urban setting. The kicker about this book is that the Eklyptors(the parasite things that the summary speaks of) can make humans into the stuff of legends and nightmares. The people out to stop the Eklyptors are calling their group IgNiTe, and the tale the story weaves to interlock these two groups in the story was gripping and I never wanted to put it down! The way they were portrayed, as the Eklyptors being around for so long, was something that was both thrilling and terrifying at the same time. Marci made a great character to follow in this story. She's a hacker, which is a pretty impressive thing on its own, but she's also a fighter, which is made clear with how she battles against the Eklyptor that's trying to take over her mind.
What I didn't like: I felt like IgNiTe was reluctant to tell Marci what the grand plan was, even though they wanted Marci to help them. This, undoubtedly, always leads to characters mucking up everything. And I kind of felt like some subplots were there but not really...explored in this book. Like Luke, I wanted to get to know him better since I felt like he would be important in the story. Yet, he kind of faded into the background rather quickly and I was a little disappointed by that, hopefully the sequel will answer some of the questions I have still and bring Luke in more as a character.
Overall Review: This was a really great read that kept me entertained for quite a while (400 pages!) but never made me want to put it down because I always wanted to know what was coming next. I thought the plot was great, and paced extremely well and I look forward to reading the sequel when it releases next year to see what happens next!
Recommend?: If you like sci-fi/fantasy melded together, I recommend this one! If you're a fan of sci-fi or fantasy, I recommend it to you as well to check out!
What I didn't like: I felt like IgNiTe was reluctant to tell Marci what the grand plan was, even though they wanted Marci to help them. This, undoubtedly, always leads to characters mucking up everything. And I kind of felt like some subplots were there but not really...explored in this book. Like Luke, I wanted to get to know him better since I felt like he would be important in the story. Yet, he kind of faded into the background rather quickly and I was a little disappointed by that, hopefully the sequel will answer some of the questions I have still and bring Luke in more as a character.
Overall Review: This was a really great read that kept me entertained for quite a while (400 pages!) but never made me want to put it down because I always wanted to know what was coming next. I thought the plot was great, and paced extremely well and I look forward to reading the sequel when it releases next year to see what happens next!
Recommend?: If you like sci-fi/fantasy melded together, I recommend this one! If you're a fan of sci-fi or fantasy, I recommend it to you as well to check out!
May 23, 2015
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
It has been a long time since I read something creepy enough to make my skin crawl. Ignite the Shadows has the whole eerie, creep-factor down pat. Ms. Seymour did an amazing job building the suspense with the shadows' effect on Marci, leading up to the big reveal of her true affliction and just what those shadows really were. And boy was it a rather shocking reveal at that. Of course, I didn't read the synopsis prior to reading the novel, so I suppose I deserved to be shocked!
Marci was a truly amazing character. It's really hard to fathom that she managed to live with the shadows plaguing her mind. I loved the descriptions of her turmoil-- they were so well-written that the reader could easily see just how awful the shadow presence was for Marci. I felt an immediate connection to her, even though she was angry, rough, and abrasive at times. With what she endured on a daily basis, it was impressive that she chose to fight and not give in to the shadows.
The secondary characters were odd-- I suppose you could say they all had unique character flaws or perhaps quirks. There were several times when I wanted to hit one of the annoying characters upside the head. It did make for some interesting scenes.
While I enjoyed the plot, found it intriguing, the overall pacing could be a tad uneven at times. I would go from desperately flipping pages to almost boredom at times. There was a lot of suspense and tension as the plot was slowly unveiled, but there were still so many secrets. I spent much of the book wishing the author would reveal just a bit more, for Marci's sake, if not the reader.
There were a lot of action scenes in the novel which were quite engaging. Expect some romance, though it takes a backseat to the creepy monster plot. Ignite the Shadows is book one of a series, so I'm looking forward to learning more about the characters and the creepy Eklyptors in book two.
It has been a long time since I read something creepy enough to make my skin crawl. Ignite the Shadows has the whole eerie, creep-factor down pat. Ms. Seymour did an amazing job building the suspense with the shadows' effect on Marci, leading up to the big reveal of her true affliction and just what those shadows really were. And boy was it a rather shocking reveal at that. Of course, I didn't read the synopsis prior to reading the novel, so I suppose I deserved to be shocked!
Marci was a truly amazing character. It's really hard to fathom that she managed to live with the shadows plaguing her mind. I loved the descriptions of her turmoil-- they were so well-written that the reader could easily see just how awful the shadow presence was for Marci. I felt an immediate connection to her, even though she was angry, rough, and abrasive at times. With what she endured on a daily basis, it was impressive that she chose to fight and not give in to the shadows.
The secondary characters were odd-- I suppose you could say they all had unique character flaws or perhaps quirks. There were several times when I wanted to hit one of the annoying characters upside the head. It did make for some interesting scenes.
While I enjoyed the plot, found it intriguing, the overall pacing could be a tad uneven at times. I would go from desperately flipping pages to almost boredom at times. There was a lot of suspense and tension as the plot was slowly unveiled, but there were still so many secrets. I spent much of the book wishing the author would reveal just a bit more, for Marci's sake, if not the reader.
There were a lot of action scenes in the novel which were quite engaging. Expect some romance, though it takes a backseat to the creepy monster plot. Ignite the Shadows is book one of a series, so I'm looking forward to learning more about the characters and the creepy Eklyptors in book two.
April 24, 2015
WOW.
Yeah, that's what comes to mind right now.
I've read one other book by this author - a new adult romance - and my honest opinion is that it was a decent book. But this story? WOW. This genre is her forte -- no doubt about it. What she put into this one really shines through. Bravo, Ms. Seymour!
Take a leap into the future in this fast-paced, action-packed adventure with an awesomely bold female lead! It's dark, it's daring, and it's full of thrills and chills. It's so over-the-top that it makes a full circle and becomes reality in the reader's mind. Does that even make sense? I certainly hope so.
There's something for everyone in this story; science fiction, fantasy, romance, and even laughter. The plot is full of depth that pulls you under and makes you wish you'd taken a deep breath first. You will not regret picking up a copy of Ignite the Shadows if you're a fan of this genre. I may actually be reading it again in the future, which says a great deal because I can count on my fingers (no need for toes) how many times I've re-read a book.
I will be praising this book and recommending it to everyone I know!
Please....
In case you didn't already come to this conclusion, Ignite the Shadows is going on my Favorite Reads of 2015 list!
Yeah, that's what comes to mind right now.
I've read one other book by this author - a new adult romance - and my honest opinion is that it was a decent book. But this story? WOW. This genre is her forte -- no doubt about it. What she put into this one really shines through. Bravo, Ms. Seymour!
Take a leap into the future in this fast-paced, action-packed adventure with an awesomely bold female lead! It's dark, it's daring, and it's full of thrills and chills. It's so over-the-top that it makes a full circle and becomes reality in the reader's mind. Does that even make sense? I certainly hope so.
There's something for everyone in this story; science fiction, fantasy, romance, and even laughter. The plot is full of depth that pulls you under and makes you wish you'd taken a deep breath first. You will not regret picking up a copy of Ignite the Shadows if you're a fan of this genre. I may actually be reading it again in the future, which says a great deal because I can count on my fingers (no need for toes) how many times I've re-read a book.
I will be praising this book and recommending it to everyone I know!
Please....
In case you didn't already come to this conclusion, Ignite the Shadows is going on my Favorite Reads of 2015 list!
May 7, 2016
In this fantastic new Sci-Fi adventure with myriad unexpected twists and turns, Seymour has endowed her main character, Marci with a strong, vibrant voice. Plagued by paralyzing visions of shadows, Marci always feels inferior to her twin who was kidnapped when they were born. The father she adored has died and her mother seems barely aware of her existence. Marci thrives on taking one risk after another. The adrenaline rush keeps Marci’s shadows at bay until she and her friend Xave fall into very dangerous company. Teens will love Marci! The Sci-Fi element is skillfully woven into what appears to be a very realistic plotline and is satisfyingly shocking when it is revealed. Appealing to a wide audience, consider this an essential purchase for YA librarians and voracious readers!
March 7, 2017
Yesssssssssss
I am LOVING the sci-fi coming out these days! This was just one more example of a re-emerging trend in publishing, and I fully approve. It's dark, intense, creative... everything I could possibly ask for! This was my first book by Ingrid Seymour, but I can tell you it won't be my last. I have no doubt that the rest of the series will be just as outstanding as the first installment.
It took me a long time to read this book, but probably not for the reason you might guess. I am overly empathetic; I can't watch shows where people embarrass themselves, I cry when fictional characters die, and in this case, I was immediately sucked in by Marci, and her impossible situation, and I actually found it unsettling. There is this parasitic monster living in Marci's brain. Needless to say, it causes her some grief, but nothing like any parasites you see in reality. She doesn't have a fever, a rash, or stomach pain. She is in a constant battle to keep her mind and body as her own. By default, this makes her an incredibly strong protagonist. And while she could have griped and moaned for the entire length of the book, woe is me, she bears this burden entirely herself. She is undoubtedly kick-ass, in every sense of the word.
And the supporting cast? They all clearly have secrets of their own. I'm still undecided about who to trust, including Marci's family and close friends, but I have some very strong feelings about who NOT to trust! I kept getting these internal DANGER! alarms going off in my head. Does Marci listen to me? Of course not! Because that would be boring, and Marci is anything but. While not every scene is action-packed, there is still plenty of mystery and intrigue to give the whole book a high tension level. The romance is all pretty low-key and casual, but I imagine it will get ramped up with the next book.
My only complaint is that it took me so long to read this! I can promise you I won't wait so long for the sequel.
A copy of this book was provided through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I am LOVING the sci-fi coming out these days! This was just one more example of a re-emerging trend in publishing, and I fully approve. It's dark, intense, creative... everything I could possibly ask for! This was my first book by Ingrid Seymour, but I can tell you it won't be my last. I have no doubt that the rest of the series will be just as outstanding as the first installment.
It took me a long time to read this book, but probably not for the reason you might guess. I am overly empathetic; I can't watch shows where people embarrass themselves, I cry when fictional characters die, and in this case, I was immediately sucked in by Marci, and her impossible situation, and I actually found it unsettling. There is this parasitic monster living in Marci's brain. Needless to say, it causes her some grief, but nothing like any parasites you see in reality. She doesn't have a fever, a rash, or stomach pain. She is in a constant battle to keep her mind and body as her own. By default, this makes her an incredibly strong protagonist. And while she could have griped and moaned for the entire length of the book, woe is me, she bears this burden entirely herself. She is undoubtedly kick-ass, in every sense of the word.
And the supporting cast? They all clearly have secrets of their own. I'm still undecided about who to trust, including Marci's family and close friends, but I have some very strong feelings about who NOT to trust! I kept getting these internal DANGER! alarms going off in my head. Does Marci listen to me? Of course not! Because that would be boring, and Marci is anything but. While not every scene is action-packed, there is still plenty of mystery and intrigue to give the whole book a high tension level. The romance is all pretty low-key and casual, but I imagine it will get ramped up with the next book.
My only complaint is that it took me so long to read this! I can promise you I won't wait so long for the sequel.
A copy of this book was provided through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 11, 2018
I really enjoyed this book, which is saying a lot since it’s YA. I think the only reason I didn’t love it was because it’s YA. Ignite is a wonderful blend of modern science fiction with a touch a fantasy, all wrapped up in a world that feels eerily real.
Our hero, Marci is an amazing character, truly strong and independent. Aside from her, typical teenage insecurities, she totally rocks. She’s super smart, can beat up anyone who messes with her, and doesn’t need a man to take care or even help her, though she does seem to spend a lot of time looking for a father figure. Oh, and romance… ‘cause even when the world is in jeopardy, people will seek romantic comfort where they can find it. Enter her longtime friend Xave.
I don’t think it was supposed to be a surprise that the friendship between Marci and Xave could be something more, but that’s kind of how it was written (not my favorite part of the story). Also, while the big reveal of what Ignite was really fighting against was totally shocking and awesome to see unfold, other mysteries within the story weren’t so difficult to figure out. And, as smart and kick-@ss as Marci was, she was clueless about many of her own personality traits and abilities. While some of that could easily be boiled down to the self-denial her character is struggling to overcome, some of it was typical teen angst (great for real YA fans, a struggle for me).
Overall, though, this story is compelling. It’s fast-paced and action-packed. I loved the realism and the technical aspects of the story. I like that everything is so well thought out, and instead of simply telling us about a great conspiracy infecting humanity, Seymour puts us right in the middle of it and shows us a team of characters building and developing a counter-conspiracy attack, with each character having a different part to play.
I must say, though, while I’m looking forward to the other books in the series, I’m not sure how I feel about any of the characters from this first installment moving forward. I feel like this first book spent so much time trying to build a sense of trust within this Ignite team, and then there was the epilogue. Just not sure how to process that (even though I saw it coming), but I thought it would happen in the next book.
Highly recommended to fans of YA sci-fi and anyone who appreciates a strong female character.
Our hero, Marci is an amazing character, truly strong and independent. Aside from her, typical teenage insecurities, she totally rocks. She’s super smart, can beat up anyone who messes with her, and doesn’t need a man to take care or even help her, though she does seem to spend a lot of time looking for a father figure. Oh, and romance… ‘cause even when the world is in jeopardy, people will seek romantic comfort where they can find it. Enter her longtime friend Xave.
I don’t think it was supposed to be a surprise that the friendship between Marci and Xave could be something more, but that’s kind of how it was written (not my favorite part of the story). Also, while the big reveal of what Ignite was really fighting against was totally shocking and awesome to see unfold, other mysteries within the story weren’t so difficult to figure out. And, as smart and kick-@ss as Marci was, she was clueless about many of her own personality traits and abilities. While some of that could easily be boiled down to the self-denial her character is struggling to overcome, some of it was typical teen angst (great for real YA fans, a struggle for me).
Overall, though, this story is compelling. It’s fast-paced and action-packed. I loved the realism and the technical aspects of the story. I like that everything is so well thought out, and instead of simply telling us about a great conspiracy infecting humanity, Seymour puts us right in the middle of it and shows us a team of characters building and developing a counter-conspiracy attack, with each character having a different part to play.
I must say, though, while I’m looking forward to the other books in the series, I’m not sure how I feel about any of the characters from this first installment moving forward. I feel like this first book spent so much time trying to build a sense of trust within this Ignite team, and then there was the epilogue. Just not sure how to process that (even though I saw it coming), but I thought it would happen in the next book.
Highly recommended to fans of YA sci-fi and anyone who appreciates a strong female character.
April 6, 2020
I don't even know what to say on how this book was written. You felt like you were right there. The mystery, suspense, the horror, the unknown, the heartache. So many feeling in this book, I really had a hard time putting it down to do something I need to do. The feelings that Marci is feeling. What will she do when she finds out its more than what she thought? What does IgNiTe really do? Who to trust? Why do some like me and some hate me? Can they really do something to help. Wow what a world? What should she do about her best friend? Can she tell him the truth or will he hate her if he knew? What to do? So many things? I recieved a free copy for my honest review.
April 26, 2020
Loved this story. Marci is a talented teen hacker. Unfortunately for her, she feels things that might be real or not. Once you start, you’re hooked. Ready for the next.
August 21, 2015
IGNITE THE SHADOWS: Book One
Author: Ingrid Seymour
Type of Book: eBook
Length: 400 pages
Genre: Young Adult Science Fiction
Release Date: April 23, 2015
Publisher: Harper Voyager an imprint of Harper Collins Publishers Ltd.
ISBN: 9780008113667
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
* I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
"I try not to look inside the alley. It's dark. Creepy dark."
"Really I don't know what I was thinking when I let Xave slink in there to spy on his brother. He walked between the two buildings until shadows devoured him."
It's February in Seattle, Washington. Marci and Xave (short for Xavier) have followed Xave's brother Clark to the "bad" side of town. They are trying to figure out exactly what Clark is up to.
Xave followed Clark into the alley while Marci waited with the motorcycle running. Marci spent long minutes trying to keep her stress level low. She knew that stress would trigger her and she needed to avoid all triggers.
"The alley looks like a tomb of indefinite depth. I'm trying to tear my eyes away from it when my hands begin to shake. Crap. Not now. There's never a good time for an attack, but right now has got to be the worst. Fear floods my chest, paralyzing my racing heart."
Escaping on a motorbike, Marci feels her "self" being taken over. "All my senses are gone. Yet somehow, I know I'm here, pushed to a corner where I'm tiny and inconsequential. I'm weightless. A plundered body, a consciousness without gray matter, nerve endings or synapses. A wisp of nothing. WHAT IS THIS? Then I understand. The shadows have won. I've lost total control like never before. My brain, my body are gone. I have been ... replaced..."
It is easy to imagine the absolute and utter fear that Marci feels. It is a terrifying concept to be fully aware, while something takes control of your entire body. Marci's terror and helplessness are described by the author:
"This thing didn't kill me. It made me a prisoner, and it's worse than a thousand deaths at the blade-end of a thousand knives."
As if fighting off some mysterious force trying to take over her body isn't enough, something or someone has hacked into her computer system.
That should never have happened. Marci is one of the best hackers on the Net. She had set up the security on her "gear" herself and the protection she placed on it should have kept out just about anyone.
Now, throw in a mother who is totally emotionally absent and who spends all of her time obsessing over the sixteen year old kidnapping of Marci's twin from the hospital immediately after their birth.
Poor Marci. She has quite the challenging life and more problems than any teenager should ever have to deal with.
When a classmate's father is murdered, Marci's entire existence is thrown into utter turmoil. Will Marci be able to get through it? Or will it all become too much for her to bear? And, what the heck does the dead man have to with her?
For answers you will need to read the book.
Ingrid Seymour has done an outstanding job of creating characters that are realistic and that readers (especially young adults) will be able to relate to.
The lead character, Marci, is not a typical heroine. Marci's mother is caucasian and her father was hispanic. Marci inherited her coloring from her father and her grandfather who had come from Chile to the United States.
I love the fact that the author has chosen to use multiple ethnicities in her work. This is much more reflective of today's society than books that contain only caucasian characters.
This book sucks the reader into the story right from the first chapter. It is packed so full of action that readers will not want to put it down.
I loved the science of the story and the unique take on an age-old concept. I also really enjoyed learning more about Marci.
There is a romantic sub-plot but it never takes over the story. The focus remains where it should be - on the plot.
The author also has a flare for describing complex emotions and perfectly captures the awkwardness and confusion of first love.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and I will be eagerly awaiting the release of the next two books in the trilogy.
I rate IGNITE THE SHADOWS as 5 out of 5 stars. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
FAVORITE QUOTES:
"We speed for a few blocks and I dare hope we've left the cop behind, but I'm fooling myself. He can go from zero to screwing-up-our-lives faster than I can."
"My life as I know it is disintegrating like sandcastles in a windstorm."
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Ingrid Seymour is not only an author, she is also a software engineer. She spends some of her time cooking exotic recipes, working out and hanging out with family and friends.
Ingrid lives in Birmingham, Alabama with her husband and two sons.
You can follow Ingrid on Twitter @Ingrid_Seymour
To read more of my reviews visit http://amiesbookreviews.wordpress.com
Follow me on Twitter @Amieroger
Author: Ingrid Seymour
Type of Book: eBook
Length: 400 pages
Genre: Young Adult Science Fiction
Release Date: April 23, 2015
Publisher: Harper Voyager an imprint of Harper Collins Publishers Ltd.
ISBN: 9780008113667
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
* I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
"I try not to look inside the alley. It's dark. Creepy dark."
"Really I don't know what I was thinking when I let Xave slink in there to spy on his brother. He walked between the two buildings until shadows devoured him."
It's February in Seattle, Washington. Marci and Xave (short for Xavier) have followed Xave's brother Clark to the "bad" side of town. They are trying to figure out exactly what Clark is up to.
Xave followed Clark into the alley while Marci waited with the motorcycle running. Marci spent long minutes trying to keep her stress level low. She knew that stress would trigger her and she needed to avoid all triggers.
"The alley looks like a tomb of indefinite depth. I'm trying to tear my eyes away from it when my hands begin to shake. Crap. Not now. There's never a good time for an attack, but right now has got to be the worst. Fear floods my chest, paralyzing my racing heart."
Escaping on a motorbike, Marci feels her "self" being taken over. "All my senses are gone. Yet somehow, I know I'm here, pushed to a corner where I'm tiny and inconsequential. I'm weightless. A plundered body, a consciousness without gray matter, nerve endings or synapses. A wisp of nothing. WHAT IS THIS? Then I understand. The shadows have won. I've lost total control like never before. My brain, my body are gone. I have been ... replaced..."
It is easy to imagine the absolute and utter fear that Marci feels. It is a terrifying concept to be fully aware, while something takes control of your entire body. Marci's terror and helplessness are described by the author:
"This thing didn't kill me. It made me a prisoner, and it's worse than a thousand deaths at the blade-end of a thousand knives."
As if fighting off some mysterious force trying to take over her body isn't enough, something or someone has hacked into her computer system.
That should never have happened. Marci is one of the best hackers on the Net. She had set up the security on her "gear" herself and the protection she placed on it should have kept out just about anyone.
Now, throw in a mother who is totally emotionally absent and who spends all of her time obsessing over the sixteen year old kidnapping of Marci's twin from the hospital immediately after their birth.
Poor Marci. She has quite the challenging life and more problems than any teenager should ever have to deal with.
When a classmate's father is murdered, Marci's entire existence is thrown into utter turmoil. Will Marci be able to get through it? Or will it all become too much for her to bear? And, what the heck does the dead man have to with her?
For answers you will need to read the book.
Ingrid Seymour has done an outstanding job of creating characters that are realistic and that readers (especially young adults) will be able to relate to.
The lead character, Marci, is not a typical heroine. Marci's mother is caucasian and her father was hispanic. Marci inherited her coloring from her father and her grandfather who had come from Chile to the United States.
I love the fact that the author has chosen to use multiple ethnicities in her work. This is much more reflective of today's society than books that contain only caucasian characters.
This book sucks the reader into the story right from the first chapter. It is packed so full of action that readers will not want to put it down.
I loved the science of the story and the unique take on an age-old concept. I also really enjoyed learning more about Marci.
There is a romantic sub-plot but it never takes over the story. The focus remains where it should be - on the plot.
The author also has a flare for describing complex emotions and perfectly captures the awkwardness and confusion of first love.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and I will be eagerly awaiting the release of the next two books in the trilogy.
I rate IGNITE THE SHADOWS as 5 out of 5 stars. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
FAVORITE QUOTES:
"We speed for a few blocks and I dare hope we've left the cop behind, but I'm fooling myself. He can go from zero to screwing-up-our-lives faster than I can."
"My life as I know it is disintegrating like sandcastles in a windstorm."
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Ingrid Seymour is not only an author, she is also a software engineer. She spends some of her time cooking exotic recipes, working out and hanging out with family and friends.
Ingrid lives in Birmingham, Alabama with her husband and two sons.
You can follow Ingrid on Twitter @Ingrid_Seymour
To read more of my reviews visit http://amiesbookreviews.wordpress.com
Follow me on Twitter @Amieroger
August 19, 2015
*I received a free ebook copy of this from Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 4.5/5
Ignite The Shadows is fast-faced and action-packed so it was definitely easy to fall into. Right away we jump into a scene of action and adrenaline, which makes it intense right from the start. It definitely makes you want to keep reading. I had a hard time putting it down. This is also a sci-fi/fantasy novel that seems incredibly real and has a lead female character so gutsy, sarcastic, and strong, that you can't get enough of her. Which means you can't get enough of the story. Which means you've just been hooked and you don't want to be free.
Marci is a very intriguing character. For as long as she can remember, she's had to fight these shadows that swarm her mind, these shadowy specters that try to take over her body. She has to fight them everyday on her own, and is left thinking she's crazy. She thinks she's the only one, but that's not the case. She meets the leader of a group called Ignite after a failed attempt of secretly spying on Xave's brother with Xave (her best friend). They definitely get more then they wanted out of the night when the leader of Ignite recognizes Marci's struggles and asks her to join him. He is like her and reveals a new world to her, one where there are many more just like them; people who have been infected by monsters known as Eklyptors. She's strong and independent, with sharp sarcasm and the ability to defend herself whether verbally or hands on. She tends to speak her mind, and yeah she makes mistakes but she always realizes them and tries to make it better. She's a pretty caring person, although she keeps people out. She's an overall great character,
I also liked James's character. He's a bit mysterious as he tends to give answers later and orders now (he's the leader of Ignite, he knows the risks and so it's no surprise eh doesn't trust easily), and there were plenty of times where I wasn't sure I could trust him. Overall though, he's a very likable character and Marci looks up to him. He's strong, thoughtful, caring, always thinking of plans and strategies. He's passionate about his cause and that makes it easy for Marci and the others to follow him. He's a great leader and a great character.
All the characters were great, actually. Though I do wish we knew a bit more about her twin brother they just found. I definitely don't trust him yet, especially after the twist at the end that could possibly ruin all Marci has accomplished since joining Ignite, but he hasn't done anything worthy of being declared a villain yet. Though I do still wonder why he was at her computer that night (was he really checking his email?) and why Marci had an off feeling about him being in her room at night with her. There's just these little things that really make me wary of him. It's also how he seemed to accept the lies of his life so easily too.
Now, onto the romance. So yes, I enjoyed the slight romance in the book between Marci and Xave. However, being how things are, I almost feel like she'll end up with Aydan instead. Aydan knows more about the secrets she's keeping, although Xave knows more about her overall. I mean, I really love Xave and Marci together, but I just have the feeling it may not work out and I hope that feeling is wrong. Either way, I definitely am eager to see how it develops in the next book.
Overall I loved Ignite the Shadows and definitely recommend this to everyone.
Rating: 4.5/5
Ignite The Shadows is fast-faced and action-packed so it was definitely easy to fall into. Right away we jump into a scene of action and adrenaline, which makes it intense right from the start. It definitely makes you want to keep reading. I had a hard time putting it down. This is also a sci-fi/fantasy novel that seems incredibly real and has a lead female character so gutsy, sarcastic, and strong, that you can't get enough of her. Which means you can't get enough of the story. Which means you've just been hooked and you don't want to be free.
Marci is a very intriguing character. For as long as she can remember, she's had to fight these shadows that swarm her mind, these shadowy specters that try to take over her body. She has to fight them everyday on her own, and is left thinking she's crazy. She thinks she's the only one, but that's not the case. She meets the leader of a group called Ignite after a failed attempt of secretly spying on Xave's brother with Xave (her best friend). They definitely get more then they wanted out of the night when the leader of Ignite recognizes Marci's struggles and asks her to join him. He is like her and reveals a new world to her, one where there are many more just like them; people who have been infected by monsters known as Eklyptors. She's strong and independent, with sharp sarcasm and the ability to defend herself whether verbally or hands on. She tends to speak her mind, and yeah she makes mistakes but she always realizes them and tries to make it better. She's a pretty caring person, although she keeps people out. She's an overall great character,
I also liked James's character. He's a bit mysterious as he tends to give answers later and orders now (he's the leader of Ignite, he knows the risks and so it's no surprise eh doesn't trust easily), and there were plenty of times where I wasn't sure I could trust him. Overall though, he's a very likable character and Marci looks up to him. He's strong, thoughtful, caring, always thinking of plans and strategies. He's passionate about his cause and that makes it easy for Marci and the others to follow him. He's a great leader and a great character.
All the characters were great, actually. Though I do wish we knew a bit more about her twin brother they just found. I definitely don't trust him yet, especially after the twist at the end that could possibly ruin all Marci has accomplished since joining Ignite, but he hasn't done anything worthy of being declared a villain yet. Though I do still wonder why he was at her computer that night (was he really checking his email?) and why Marci had an off feeling about him being in her room at night with her. There's just these little things that really make me wary of him. It's also how he seemed to accept the lies of his life so easily too.
Now, onto the romance. So yes, I enjoyed the slight romance in the book between Marci and Xave. However, being how things are, I almost feel like she'll end up with Aydan instead. Aydan knows more about the secrets she's keeping, although Xave knows more about her overall. I mean, I really love Xave and Marci together, but I just have the feeling it may not work out and I hope that feeling is wrong. Either way, I definitely am eager to see how it develops in the next book.
Overall I loved Ignite the Shadows and definitely recommend this to everyone.
April 28, 2015
I received an early copy for review for the Xpresso Book Tour. The book is available now in e-formats, but will be available in paperback come October. It's the first installment in a planned trilogy, with good world building and a likable heroine.
Sixteen-year-old Marci Guerrero is one of the best teen hackers in Seattle. However, she’d give up all her talents to know she isn’t crazy. Since the death of her father, she's lead a bleak life. She's been running from shadows most of her life, certain that something is very wrong with her, and she's right, but its nothing that she could have ever imagined. Her mother thinks that she's suffering from epilepsy, rather than unknowingly fighting an alien invasion.
Marci feels possessed by shadowy spectres that take control of her body and make her do crazy things. The blackouts and loss of control are signs that a parasite has latched onto a person’s brain and is trying to take control of its host. Most succumb to the infection within a few days, but not Marci, she's survived for more than eleven years.
While spying on the clandestine group known as IgNiTe, she is confronted by their mysterious leader, James McCray. His presence stirs the spectres inside her brain into a maddening frenzy. Her symptoms and ability to control them don’t go unnoticed by James, who soon recruits her. As IgNiTe reveals its secrets, Marci starts to realize that half the world’s population is infected with sentient parasites, which are attacking and eventually supplanting the human brain.
Now Marci wishes she was crazy, because this truth is far worse. The Eklyptors, the ancient and invading force has a smart and very scary plan for the human race. While the idea of body snatching and alien invasions are nothing new, it doesn't make the palpable fear of slowly losing control any less real. Who's infected and controlled, and who isn't becomes a very scary question, and propels a lot of the story along.
The entire tone of the story is dark and very angsty, with a dystopian backdrop that'll delight the targeted young adult audience. The journey is very bleak, with a happy ending not likely. While there is plenty to love about the novel, there are a lot of glaring plot holes, with strings of story lines tossed to the side as new elements added. Being the first in a planned trilogy though, allows the opportunity for these issues to be corrected and for the story to feel more complete.
The action is well written, but IgNiTe has a bad habit of keeping too many secrets that could really enhance not only the reader's experience, but Marci's as well. She's consistently berated for doing the wrong thing, when she isn't given all of the details. It happens too often. A better approach would have been for the strong willed protagonist to have chosen to go against protocol because of her own internal compass rather than being helpless and having no control of any situation.
Ignite the Shadows is off to a great and very intriguing start. It's the perfect mix of active storytelling and teenaged romance, without the romance being the full focus of the story. It's a great first book in the series. I'll be looking forward to book two, which will be released in 2016.
Sixteen-year-old Marci Guerrero is one of the best teen hackers in Seattle. However, she’d give up all her talents to know she isn’t crazy. Since the death of her father, she's lead a bleak life. She's been running from shadows most of her life, certain that something is very wrong with her, and she's right, but its nothing that she could have ever imagined. Her mother thinks that she's suffering from epilepsy, rather than unknowingly fighting an alien invasion.
Marci feels possessed by shadowy spectres that take control of her body and make her do crazy things. The blackouts and loss of control are signs that a parasite has latched onto a person’s brain and is trying to take control of its host. Most succumb to the infection within a few days, but not Marci, she's survived for more than eleven years.
While spying on the clandestine group known as IgNiTe, she is confronted by their mysterious leader, James McCray. His presence stirs the spectres inside her brain into a maddening frenzy. Her symptoms and ability to control them don’t go unnoticed by James, who soon recruits her. As IgNiTe reveals its secrets, Marci starts to realize that half the world’s population is infected with sentient parasites, which are attacking and eventually supplanting the human brain.
Now Marci wishes she was crazy, because this truth is far worse. The Eklyptors, the ancient and invading force has a smart and very scary plan for the human race. While the idea of body snatching and alien invasions are nothing new, it doesn't make the palpable fear of slowly losing control any less real. Who's infected and controlled, and who isn't becomes a very scary question, and propels a lot of the story along.
The entire tone of the story is dark and very angsty, with a dystopian backdrop that'll delight the targeted young adult audience. The journey is very bleak, with a happy ending not likely. While there is plenty to love about the novel, there are a lot of glaring plot holes, with strings of story lines tossed to the side as new elements added. Being the first in a planned trilogy though, allows the opportunity for these issues to be corrected and for the story to feel more complete.
The action is well written, but IgNiTe has a bad habit of keeping too many secrets that could really enhance not only the reader's experience, but Marci's as well. She's consistently berated for doing the wrong thing, when she isn't given all of the details. It happens too often. A better approach would have been for the strong willed protagonist to have chosen to go against protocol because of her own internal compass rather than being helpless and having no control of any situation.
Ignite the Shadows is off to a great and very intriguing start. It's the perfect mix of active storytelling and teenaged romance, without the romance being the full focus of the story. It's a great first book in the series. I'll be looking forward to book two, which will be released in 2016.
July 13, 2016
*I received this book from the author in return for an honest review and rating. All opinions are my own and are not affected by this factor. Thank you so much Ingrid for sending me a copy of your novel!*
Rating: 4/5
The first thing that struck me about the story was how unique and original the driving point of the novel was. The idea of parasitic races is something I have read about before but not once have I come across such a developed and detailed analysis of such a topic! I loved the horror component that it added to the plot line and the scenes where the parasite (known as Eklyptors) fully reveals itself are just downright creepy. Halfway between an urban fantasy and a sci-fi novel, Ignite the Shadows hooked me right at the start and thrilled me right until the ending. The plot was so fast paced and new developments kept popping up left and right, not letting me put the book down.
Marci was the strong female protagonist I was looking for, and as a chess-playing, martial-arts-loving, ass kicking hacker she was fantastic! She had depth and enough flaws to make her seem relatable and real. I liked the fact she didn’t take no for an answer but acknowledged when she was wrong. Her attitude was often flippant but occasionally a softer side of her would show. Her relationship with Xave was interesting and there was clearly chemistry there. The romance was well-thought out and wasn’t just stuck in there for the sake of it. I wished that it had been a bit more consistent throughout the novel though, some parts were very heavy on romance, while in others Xave did’t even seem to exist. Other supporting characters such as Aydan and James were another refined aspect of the novel, they clearly had in-depth backstories and were brilliant in terms of pushing the plot along. Blare annoyed the hell out of me but otherwise I loved most of the characters.
The sub-plot of Marci’s missing twin was also quite fascinating! I won’t spoil it and reveal any details but the relationship between Marci and her mother was showcases especially during the segments that dealt with the conflict. I would like to see it perhaps developed a bit more in the second book but the root of the conflict was a difficult one and I honestly have no idea how it could be resolved.
One thing I would have liked, in terms of the plot, is a twist or a betrayal — something unexpected. Although the plot was well thought out and the idea behind it was very unique, it was pretty predictable. New developments were something the author was brilliant at putting in, but none of it was surprising.
In conclusion, Ignite the Shadows is prefect for anyone who enjoyed YA novels like Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi, Angelfall by Susan Ee or Bzrk by Michael Grant. It was fast paced, gripping and exciting with fantastic characters and conflicts. I would have liked it to have a bit more of a flare but otherwise it was a thoroughly enjoyable novel. Thank you once more to Ingrid for sending me a copy!
Rating: 4/5
The first thing that struck me about the story was how unique and original the driving point of the novel was. The idea of parasitic races is something I have read about before but not once have I come across such a developed and detailed analysis of such a topic! I loved the horror component that it added to the plot line and the scenes where the parasite (known as Eklyptors) fully reveals itself are just downright creepy. Halfway between an urban fantasy and a sci-fi novel, Ignite the Shadows hooked me right at the start and thrilled me right until the ending. The plot was so fast paced and new developments kept popping up left and right, not letting me put the book down.
Marci was the strong female protagonist I was looking for, and as a chess-playing, martial-arts-loving, ass kicking hacker she was fantastic! She had depth and enough flaws to make her seem relatable and real. I liked the fact she didn’t take no for an answer but acknowledged when she was wrong. Her attitude was often flippant but occasionally a softer side of her would show. Her relationship with Xave was interesting and there was clearly chemistry there. The romance was well-thought out and wasn’t just stuck in there for the sake of it. I wished that it had been a bit more consistent throughout the novel though, some parts were very heavy on romance, while in others Xave did’t even seem to exist. Other supporting characters such as Aydan and James were another refined aspect of the novel, they clearly had in-depth backstories and were brilliant in terms of pushing the plot along. Blare annoyed the hell out of me but otherwise I loved most of the characters.
The sub-plot of Marci’s missing twin was also quite fascinating! I won’t spoil it and reveal any details but the relationship between Marci and her mother was showcases especially during the segments that dealt with the conflict. I would like to see it perhaps developed a bit more in the second book but the root of the conflict was a difficult one and I honestly have no idea how it could be resolved.
One thing I would have liked, in terms of the plot, is a twist or a betrayal — something unexpected. Although the plot was well thought out and the idea behind it was very unique, it was pretty predictable. New developments were something the author was brilliant at putting in, but none of it was surprising.
In conclusion, Ignite the Shadows is prefect for anyone who enjoyed YA novels like Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi, Angelfall by Susan Ee or Bzrk by Michael Grant. It was fast paced, gripping and exciting with fantastic characters and conflicts. I would have liked it to have a bit more of a flare but otherwise it was a thoroughly enjoyable novel. Thank you once more to Ingrid for sending me a copy!
August 1, 2016
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I was given a copy of Ignite the Shadows in exchange for a review in prep for the upcoming sequel. I liked it. I wouldn't call it particularly memorable, especially within the saturated genre of science fiction. The plot strongly reminded me of the Deaths of Tao as the two contain mainly similar elements. But I would be interested in reading a sequel. There was a great twist at the end, that left me going what, no! The book can't be ending here!
I do like endings that leave me flabbergasted.
The book is definitely action packed and fast paced, beginning with a motorcycle chase as Xave and Marci spy on Clark's dealings with a mysterious group called IgNite. For me, the book was almost too fast paced. I was just plopped right in without any clue what was going on and little exposition. In fact, I'd say most of the book went from 0 to 90 in seconds.
Our narrator, Marci, is spunky but impulsive. She read like a real teenager to me: snarky, over-the-top, and a bit bratty. But I appreciated that. I get sick of YA teenage characters that don't act like teenagers at all. I could also understand where her frustration often rooted from, which helped me empathize with her.
I'm not really into sentient alien stories, but I will say the aliens in this story were pretty darn creepy. I don't do tentacles. Bleh!
The thing about this book that didn't jive with me was the so-called science used to explain the abilities of the aliens and certain characters. It didn't sound real to me at all and broke my suspension of belief. It's a problem I often come across in science fiction that completely jars me out of the story. I wish authors felt less of a need to explain every nuance in these instances.
Overall though, if you enjoy fast paced action books with a strong heroine and a little dash of romance (perfect amount in my opinion), then this is a read for you.
I was given a copy of Ignite the Shadows in exchange for a review in prep for the upcoming sequel. I liked it. I wouldn't call it particularly memorable, especially within the saturated genre of science fiction. The plot strongly reminded me of the Deaths of Tao as the two contain mainly similar elements. But I would be interested in reading a sequel. There was a great twist at the end, that left me going what, no! The book can't be ending here!
I do like endings that leave me flabbergasted.
The book is definitely action packed and fast paced, beginning with a motorcycle chase as Xave and Marci spy on Clark's dealings with a mysterious group called IgNite. For me, the book was almost too fast paced. I was just plopped right in without any clue what was going on and little exposition. In fact, I'd say most of the book went from 0 to 90 in seconds.
Our narrator, Marci, is spunky but impulsive. She read like a real teenager to me: snarky, over-the-top, and a bit bratty. But I appreciated that. I get sick of YA teenage characters that don't act like teenagers at all. I could also understand where her frustration often rooted from, which helped me empathize with her.
I'm not really into sentient alien stories, but I will say the aliens in this story were pretty darn creepy. I don't do tentacles. Bleh!
The thing about this book that didn't jive with me was the so-called science used to explain the abilities of the aliens and certain characters. It didn't sound real to me at all and broke my suspension of belief. It's a problem I often come across in science fiction that completely jars me out of the story. I wish authors felt less of a need to explain every nuance in these instances.
Overall though, if you enjoy fast paced action books with a strong heroine and a little dash of romance (perfect amount in my opinion), then this is a read for you.
June 29, 2016
***Won in a GoodReads First Reads giveaway***
Parasites (alien-ish) take over their hosts slowly over time. The humans inside get pushed over and become passengers as the parasites take control of their bodies. This is what happens 99% of the time. The other 1% can fight the takeover. A resistance has formed to fight these parasites, and this story follows a teenage girl as she stumbles upon this resistance group and things start spiraling out of control.
This is the first in a series. This is plain to see. A lot of setting the plot up, explaining the bad guys, the characters etc. As such not a whole lot is done against the bad guys, but nevertheless the book had my attention throughout. It is an interesting story, sort of reminds me of the Animorphs' Yeerks...minus the physical beings, but same controlling of humans thing.
As the main character is a teenage female, and the author has written from inside her head, a lot of thoughts are quick to form conclusions, emotional, basically everything I have heard goes on in their heads. The feelings and thoughts are outright explained, which was something I had to get used to as most books don't do that, but it just added another dimension.
Overall, this is the start to a good series, it ends on an emotional plot point, and there are many questions still needing answers. I would have liked to see more of Seattle. It is an interesting city from what I have read in other books, and it would be a nice addition to work in some of the sights into the plot...it is featured on the cover, but I felt like the story could have happened anywhere in the world.
Parasites (alien-ish) take over their hosts slowly over time. The humans inside get pushed over and become passengers as the parasites take control of their bodies. This is what happens 99% of the time. The other 1% can fight the takeover. A resistance has formed to fight these parasites, and this story follows a teenage girl as she stumbles upon this resistance group and things start spiraling out of control.
This is the first in a series. This is plain to see. A lot of setting the plot up, explaining the bad guys, the characters etc. As such not a whole lot is done against the bad guys, but nevertheless the book had my attention throughout. It is an interesting story, sort of reminds me of the Animorphs' Yeerks...minus the physical beings, but same controlling of humans thing.
As the main character is a teenage female, and the author has written from inside her head, a lot of thoughts are quick to form conclusions, emotional, basically everything I have heard goes on in their heads. The feelings and thoughts are outright explained, which was something I had to get used to as most books don't do that, but it just added another dimension.
Overall, this is the start to a good series, it ends on an emotional plot point, and there are many questions still needing answers. I would have liked to see more of Seattle. It is an interesting city from what I have read in other books, and it would be a nice addition to work in some of the sights into the plot...it is featured on the cover, but I felt like the story could have happened anywhere in the world.
April 28, 2015
Marci Guerrero always has her guard up, but not for any of the usual reasons. Marci has been running from shadows her whole life, convinced there is something wrong with her. Then she’s brought into a secret organization that shows her there may be something very right about her brain. She has the ability to resist the parasitic entities that have been insidiously taking over human civilization. But how long she’ll be able to maintain control, and how much she may be able to help this underground movement, are both critical elements with no clear answer.
This YA Urban Fantasy takes on an Hackers meets Invasion Of The Bodysnatchers feel as readers follow a kickbutt heroine into the battlefield of her own mind. Marci sits on the high end of the anger and aggressiveness scale, but the reasons for her prickly disposition steadily come to light as the story progresses. Seymour holds the reader’s interest with vivid imagery and an unflagging grasp on pacing. There’s a hint of romance involved, but the plot is definitely the focus.
I had a bit of trouble forming an attachment to Xave, and there wasn’t much room for background on most of the IgNiTe members we’re introduced to. But there was clearly a lot of setup going on for future books in the series. Hopefully with that will also bring some eventual closure to the subplot as well. ;)
I generally think this book will appeal to fans of Scott Westerfeld’s Midnighters series, and anyone with a taste for light speculative fiction.
September 14, 2015
Ignite is a compelling and cinematic race through a fight against truly horrifying monsters. Marci is a strong female main character whose flaws and complexities make her all the more engaging and interesting. The book is satisfyingly long and written with such precise skill bringing all the sentences together in a way which made it seem that not one word was superfluous (I fear the same cannot be said of my review but my excuse is that I am struggling to find the right words to describe how excellent this book is). Ignite is the first in a series and, although it ends as such, it does not leave the reader 'hanging'. However, I am still very keen to read the next in the series as there are many aspects of book one that need development, and I can't wait to find out how they do!
June 23, 2015
I have to preface this by saying that I always open a book by Ingrid Seymour with giddy anticipation! I especially couldn't wait for this one because I enjoyed The Morphid Chronicles so much! In this book you are sucked into the world of 16-year-old Marci Guerrero from the very beginning, and it is such an intense ride that you will not want to let go of! I loved all of the characters and can't wait to see how the story continues to evolve, because Ignite the Shadows ends with a nail-biting cliffhanger! Ingrid Seymour is truly a mastermind in the genre of YA Fantasy! I highly recommend this book!
August 30, 2015
Ignite the Shadows is a faced paced page turner; jam packed full of action packed scenes. I love the chilling and creepy mood the author created. The female lead character is a tough and smart heroine. She was perfectly crafted for the intense plotline; intelligent and a fighter. I loved the world the author created. It's a futuristic sci-fi, but it is realistic and very believable. Good science fiction is when the reader believes in it and the author definitely achieved this. Overall, the book is a very well written story with an in depth plotline. It is an easy and engaging read and I recommend it to anyone who likes sci-fi, YA fiction.
May 26, 2015
Voto: 4,5/5
I received the ARC of this book through NetGalley in exchange for
an honest review.
Avviso che non è per niente il mio genere, ma mi ha stupito. Sono riuscita a leggerlo senza avere problemi. È già il secondo libro di Ingrid che non appartiene al mio solito repertorio e che sono riuscita a leggere senza problemi. Lei è un'ottima autrice. Riesce a coinvolgerti sin dall'inizio, anche se il libro non fa per te.
La mia recensione completa
http://airalsbooks.altervista.org/ign...
I received the ARC of this book through NetGalley in exchange for
an honest review.
Avviso che non è per niente il mio genere, ma mi ha stupito. Sono riuscita a leggerlo senza avere problemi. È già il secondo libro di Ingrid che non appartiene al mio solito repertorio e che sono riuscita a leggere senza problemi. Lei è un'ottima autrice. Riesce a coinvolgerti sin dall'inizio, anche se il libro non fa per te.
La mia recensione completa
http://airalsbooks.altervista.org/ign...
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