Ignite

October 15, 2014
A girl fighter fights evil in a midseries time filler. Disfigured by scars and outed as a girl, superb sword fighter Alexa is King Damian's most valued guard. Though Damian relies on her completely as a soldier and adviser, the awkwardness between the pair encroaches on their every interaction. Alexa has told Damian she doesn't love him, convinced that a relationship would destroy her beloved king (she feels she'd be bad for him, for no apparent reason beyond her disfiguring scars). Every time she sees him, Alexa is struck with such blinding physical pain-in her chest, stomach, gut and skull-that readers might wonder if she should visit a doctor. A visit to the kingdom by villainous, alabaster-skinned desert people leaves the kingdom in danger from a wicked seductress and her brother, a malicious goon who tortures his own henchmen for kicks and giggles. Though the dastardly fiends don't appear to be dark sorcerers, they certainly have mysterious powers almost impossible to resist. Still, no dark magic or potential war with the Blevonese can distract Alexa from her Very Important Love Triangle with two bland blank slates. Adequate heroic fantasy only for those who must have every girl-with-a-sword. (Fantasy. 12-14)

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November 1, 2014

Gr 8 Up-Resolute heroine Alexa Hollen returns in this sequel to Defy (Scholastic, 2014). Damian's betrayal still stings and Alexa continues to deny her love for him, but an uneasy peace with Blevon launches the female King's guard into emotional turmoil: Someone is attacking distant villages of Antion, a young prince is kidnapped, and Blevon appears to be the culprit. Meanwhile the Dansiians, responsible for the black sorcerer Iker's devastating involvement with Damian's father, have sent a delegation to Antion under the pretense of forming an alliance, but the enchanting Lady Vera reveals a more sinister agenda. This fast-paced fantasy novel laced with political intrigue spends a lot of time in Alexa's head as she is torn between her duty as the finest personal guard to her king and a desperate desire to be with her soul mate. Jealousy is a common theme with these realistic characters, whether it's Alexa, Damian, Rylan, or Lady Vera, examining the complicated ramifications of one person's decisions. Antion's politics add a level of depth to the world-building without being too distracting or overbearing. Readers who enjoy love stories that include multifaceted relationships and a suspenseful plot will be enthralled.-Jamie-Lee Schombs, Loyola School, New York City

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

December 1, 2014
Grades 9-12 Although Alexa has revealed her true self to the new king, Damian, she still harbors deep emotions for him. But she chooses to help Damian and other survivors of the brutal war to rebuild Antion before she tends to her feelings. Additionally, the usually friendly kingdom of Blevon is threatening Antion, though Alexa questions whether the threats are real. Still, she will guard Damian and the kingdom to her last. Alexa was fierce in Defy (2013), and in this second installment, she remains an interesting, multilayered character, a valiant fighter with heart. Series fans will be satisfied.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2014, American Library Association.)