This book is so cinematic! It’s like reading a movie script, my head creating vivid visuals, sometimes I thought I’m hearing the sounds.
Synopsis
To be honest I’m not really a fan of sci-fi in any sort. I rarely pick this genre in books, even in movies. And I was intimidated to read this book because 1) it’s a big brick. 2) it is science fiction, and 3) the format is way different from the usual books. But I’m so glad I read this book because I’m starting to reconsider to explore more about science fiction!
This book is so cinematic! I would highly advise that you listen to the audiobook because it’s the best thing in the world. It was beautifully done consisting of sound effects. You would hear computer voices, missile shots, explosions, aircraft engines, computer sounds, and many more. They did a great job producing both book and audiobook. I had so much fun with this book It’s like reading a movie script, and my head creating vivid visuals that even sometimes I thought I’m actually hearing the sounds they’re portraying (I’m not insane don’t worry).
Writing
The way this book was written is fascinating. It is not a typical book, the story is told in multimedia format in a collection of emails, chat logs, journal entries, surveillance footages, and stuff like that. Even though it was written that way, it does not affect the development of every characters and the events were still intertwined nicely. I really enjoyed the narration of this book especially the conversations of the characters to each other. The authors really know how to write a great sci-fi.
“I am frequently underestimated. I think it’s because I’m short.”
– Kady Grant (Illuminae)
Plot
The story flows naturally, the events and characters are woven together. I love the mystery aspect of the plot it completely hooked me and kept me awake at night, turning pages. This book is a survival in the middle of space while unraveling series of secrets. It made such a great story.
Characters
Kady Grant (Protagonist) – The main protagonist is such an amazing character. She is a tech-geek, hacker (with pink hair!). Her development is so great, she is a fierce heroine, unafraid to fight, and an empowering character. You can really tell that she knows what she’s doing.
Ezra Mason (Protagonist) – Even though we don’t get to see as much as development to Ezra Mason, he still is a well written character. I like that he is encouraging, telling people not to give up. Despite that his knowledge about computers are very limited, he still push his way out of the misery they are experiencing. He do all things he can. especially if it’s for the people important to him. Kady and Ezra have so little in common but it doesn’t stop them to be a perfect match for each other.
“You deserve every star in the galaxy laid out at your feet and a thousand diamonds in your hair. You deserve someone who’ll run with you as far as and as fast as you want to. Holding your hand, not holding you back. You deserve more than I could ever give you, Kady. But I’ll give you everything I can if you still want me to.”
– Ezra Mason (Illuminae)
Overall
I gave this book 5 out of 5 stars on goodreads. I really love this book, Chum. It is action-packed, page turner, heart-pounding and heart-wrenching. It would make you laugh as well. This book may seem long but it doesn’t take a lot of time to read. There are pages that you wouldn’t stop staring at because of how gorgeous the artworks are. I also got Resident Evil vibes from reading this book. I would highly suggest this book to anyone to give it a try even if you aren’t a fan of sci-fi.
About the Authors
Jay Kristoff is the New York Times and internationally bestselling author of THE LOTUS WAR, THE ILLUMINAE FILES, and THE NEVERNIGHT CHRONICLE. He is the winner of two Aurealis Awards and an ABIA, was a nominee for the David Gemmell Morningstar and Legend awards, has been named multiple times in the Kirkus and Amazon Best Teen Books lists, and is published in over twenty-five countries, most of which he has never visited. He is as surprised about all of this as you are. He is 6’7″ and has approximately 13,030 days to live. He abides in Melbourne with his secret agent kung-fu assassin wife and the world’s laziest Jack Russell. He does not believe in happy endings.
jaykristoff.com
Twitter: @misterkristoff
Instagram: @misterkristoff
Goodreads: Jay Kristoff
Amie Kaufman is a New York Times and internationally bestselling author of science fiction and fantasy for young (and not so young) adults. Her multi-award winning work has been published in 30 countries, and been described as “a game-changer” (Shelf Awareness), “stylistically mesmerising” (Publishers Weekly) and “out-of-this-world awesome” (Kirkus). Amie lives in Melbourne, Australia with her husband and their rescue dog, Jack.
http://amiekaufman.com/
Twitter: @amiekaufman
Instagram: @amiekaufmanauthor
Goodreads: Amie Kaufman
Allen The Page Turner 