“An epic finale! Igniting Darkness has it all: political intrigue, delicious romance, action-packed, strong and ferocious lead female characters all painted with a French historical backdrop, making this conclusion to LaFevers’ duology a must read.”
Cecelia Beckman Sheaf & Ink
The Story
Sybella is the daughter of Saint Mortain. She is an instrument of death and vengeance. Overwhelmed by the fact the God of Death is dead, now more than ever, she questions how she is to continue extracting her calling as a handmaiden of Death. And with her sadistic brother on her heels to try and obtain their younger sisters while also trying to protect her Queen, Sybella finds herself lost without knowing how to keep those she cares most safe.
Genevieve a novitiate of Saint Mortain’s convent has been searching for anyone from her past to make contact with and finally finds Sybella only after a grave mistake. A mistake that will expose everyone she thought she was protecting. It is the turning point that will cause Fate’s Wheel to turn, but it’s uncertain to whose favor. The outcome unclear as to whether or not she can save a kingdom from a corrupt council, keep her Queen and the daughters of Saint Mortain from losing everything.
My Review Igniting Darkness
Prior to reading Igniting Darkness, I read all three of the original His Fair Assassins novels. I loved the world-building and the way LaFevers drew you in with the historical elements infused with the fantasy of Death’s handmaidens. Where LaFevers molded and shaped these three badass female characters taking on a world made by and for men was one that made the whole experience so incredibly satisfying.
And Igniting Darkness adds to the original thread of the story. Expanding it. Giving voice to new characters and expounding on those original ones. It was exciting to see the movement from Brittany to France and how the daughters of Death would keep their beloved Queen safe.
I was enthralled by Sybella’s transformation. How she was like a phoenix burning bright and brilliant over the course of Courting Darkness and Igniting Darkness. Finding that all she has suffered and endured does not define her future. That she deserves happiness.
More Thoughts
Not only is Sybella’s story a focal point, but Genevieve, too in her own right has this major transformation. Like the ebb in flow of the seasons, shedding a winter’s coat for the warmth of spring, Genevieve too begins to find her true self. Where we see chapter after chapter her desperation to make things right after her well intentioned mistake. Always this undercurrent of working to define herself, her purpose, and ultimately be the voice of reason in a torrent of self-interested men.
In truth, Genevieve embodies feminist ideals. Like Sybella (and to an extent the Queen) history never gives voice to the women who played major roles in the establishment and sustainability of monarchs. But LaFevers pens those women into being. With strong wills and stronger voices. LaFevers deftly creates characters that jump off the pages fully formed.
Where Genevieve funnels those feminist ideals into fruition in her relationship with the King of France. It is the triumph of the novel in how LaFevers wove together Genevieve and Sybella’s story. Where each works in tandem to obtain the same goal.
A Few More Thoughts
Moreover, it is the historical backdrop, the magic of being god touched, and the chapters brimming with action, that makes Igniting Darkness a fast-paced read. I was captivated by the narrative along with the shear force of the female characters showing what women are truly capable of accomplishing.
I truly hope LaFevers isn’t finished with these characters just yet, as I am completely ready for more.
Happy Reading ̴ Cece
RATING: 
– Exceptionally Inked
Author: Robin LaFevers
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: August, 2020
Pages: 560
ISBN-10: 0544991095
ISBN-13: 978-0544991095
Audience: 14 and up
Jacket Art: Billelis
Jacket Design: Whitney Leader-Picone
Similar Books to Igniting Darkness Recommended by Sheaf and Ink
Courting Darkness, Robin LaFevers
Need More Book Recommendations?
Sheaf & Ink has reviewed a number of Young Adult novels in historical fantasy like Igniting Darkness. Read The Court of Miracles and An Affair of Poisons reviews to find your next favorite book and join the conversation. We love hearing from you.
The Court of Mircacles by Kester Grant
An Affair of Poisons by Addie Thorley
