Ignite by Erica Crouch
When I originally requested Ignite I wasn't completely sure whether I would like this story or not, throw in the fact it's about teenagers made me a bit pensive.I actually really enjoyed it though, I finished it within four hours because it grabbed my attention from the very beginning. I also was concerned about the possible religious aspects to this book, since it is about angels an demons. I can happily say that while God is mentioned an certain parts of the Bible are talked about it's not completely about that. It really is a story about a girl finding her way and about a boy finally finding what he's been missing his entire life. The focus is on the romance in this book, and knowing that there is a gray area in life.
Our heroine is Pen, an immortal fallen angel that looks to be about seventeen. Unlike most fallen angels Pen doesn't enjoy being evil or killing, she does it because she has to. Pen's twin is the crueler one with a lust for pain and torture. At the start of the story Pen seems like a horrible individual with no heart or sympathy for others, she just appears to be evil. Appearances aren't always what they seem to be though. As the story progresses you get to really see the real Pen and discover how trapped she truly is. I felt bad for this girl and couldn't fathom how horrible it would be to be trapped with someone like her twin for all of your life. It's pretty unimaginable.
Our hero turns out to be Michael, yes THE Michael from the Bible. Gods second in command, the one who in stories loves humans and fights for what's right. However, in this story Michael can't remember who he is or what he's suppose to do. He's wanted by both Heaven and Hell dead or alive. His only chance at survival is Pen, but that means he has to trust her. Can an Archangel really trust a demon though?
The story does stay in Pens point of view the entire time so you don't have to worry about character jumping. I thought overall it was well written, but would have liked more dialogue and less Pen alone time. I would consider this book to be best for readers 16+ because it is a dark read and does make you think about things. I'd definitely recommend to others who enjoy angels, demons, and young adult with some romance thrown in. It would also appeal to the dystopian crowd along with paranormal lovers.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
