Series: Ignite the Stars #1
Published by Albert Whitman & Company on September 4, 2018
Genres: Young Adult Fiction, School & Education, Boarding School & Prep School, Science Fiction, Space Opera
Pages: 400
Format: Paperback
Source: Bought
Everyone in the universe knows his name. Everyone in the universe fears him. But no one realizes that notorious outlaw Ia Cocha is a seventeen-year-old girl.
A criminal mastermind and unrivaled pilot, Ia has spent her life terrorizing the Olympus Commonwealth, the imperialist nation that destroyed her home. When the Commonwealth captures her and her true identity is exposed, they see Ia's age and talent as an opportunity: by forcing her to serve them, they will prove that no one is beyond their control.
Soon, Ia is trapped at the Commonwealth's military academy, desperately plotting her escape. But new acquaintances—including Brinn, a seemingly average student with a closely-held secret, and their charming Flight Master, Knives—cause Ia to question her own alliances. Can she find a way to escape the Commonwealth's clutches before these bonds deepen?
In this exhilarating edge-of-your-seat sci-fi adventure—perfect for fans of The Lunar Chronicles—debut author Maura Milan introduces our world to a thrilling new heroine.
Ignite the Stars first popped up on my radar after I read a review from a fellow book blogger. I wish I could remember who, because I am so happy this underrated gem ended up on my TBR! I actually received a physical copy of Ignite the day after I received an ARC from Albert Whitman through Netgalley. This worked out because as soon as I finished binge-reading Ia’s story, I immediately began harassing Mr. B to read it so I had someone to gush to. The great news is he enjoyed it too! Enough of the background story though, let’s talk about this thrilling debut.
Probably most striking was Milan’s ability to bring color and personality without utilizing flowery or overly technical language in this space opera. Easy to read along with a quick pace made this book tough to put down when faced with adult responsibilities. I found myself reading in every free moment I had, even if just an elevator ride, to see what would happen to Brinn, Ia, and Knives next.
The world-building was a bit lacking. I really wanted to know more about the background of the Commonwealth, Dead Space, and a deeper look at the different races though I’m confident we will see more of this in the next book. I did appreciate the inclusion of social justice issues that, unfortunately, are all to familiar to readers today. Our first introduction to Brinn actually prompted a long conversation with Mr. B regarding stepping in for the Tawnies targeted by the crowd versus the dangers of going toe-to-toe with a mob like that.
What was missing in background for this reader, I found in the form of vibrant characters that were easy to cheer for and hiss at. Even a minor character like Med Bot 494 made an impression on me. I loved Ia’s gumption, Knives and his complicated background, and even Brinn’s frustrating character development. The romance angle was appropriate and didn’t overtake the story arc as I’ve seen in some YA novels.
Overall, Ignite the Stars proved to be a solid debut novel and a gripping start to Ia’s story. It is easy to see how this could be adapted to screen. Now we have to wait for our copy of Eclipse the Skies and then Mr. B. and I will have to have a duel to figure out who reads it first! Definitely put this book on your TBR!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed a review copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Everyone in the universe knows his name. Everyone in the universe fears him. But no one realizes that notorious outlaw Ia Cōcha is a seventeen-year-old girl.
A criminal mastermind and unrivaled pilot, Ia has spent her life terrorizing the Olympus Commonwealth, the imperialist nation that destroyed her home. When the Commonwealth captures her and her true identity is exposed, they see Ia’s age and talent as an opportunity: by forcing her to serve them, they will prove that no one is beyond their control.
Soon, Ia is trapped at the Commonwealth’s military academy, desperately plotting her escape. But new acquaintances—including Brinn, a seemingly average student with a closely-held secret, and their charming Flight Master, Knives—cause Ia to question her own alliances. Can she find a way to escape the Commonwealth’s clutches before these bonds deepen?