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Igniting Polaris
There isn't much room for lively conversation when one is voting on the lives of millions. Or, at least that's what the United States senate had learned, following their hearing to discuss a possible cure for a disease that has taken the new world by storm. This possible cure had one name, and one name Qeressa. A gas that they hoped would save what was left, but all it did was ruin, ruin, and ruin.
Now, Ophena Morgenthau, a seemingly average young woman from the small town of Detale, Michigan, struggles to survive in a world ravaged by the effects of Qeressa. But, at least she doesn't have to do it alone. Join Ophena and her friends, as the strength of their love is put to the test. Will they be able to overcome travesty and a deep connection to the source of Qeressa, in order to save what's left of their world? Or will they falter under the threat of monsters that walked from the corners of their nightmares?
Now, Ophena Morgenthau, a seemingly average young woman from the small town of Detale, Michigan, struggles to survive in a world ravaged by the effects of Qeressa. But, at least she doesn't have to do it alone. Join Ophena and her friends, as the strength of their love is put to the test. Will they be able to overcome travesty and a deep connection to the source of Qeressa, in order to save what's left of their world? Or will they falter under the threat of monsters that walked from the corners of their nightmares?
396 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2024
5 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
June 8, 2024
Victoria R. Kimball's "Igniting Polaris" delivers a gripping dystopian narrative that deftly explores the complexities of survival, friendship, and love in a world irrevocably altered by a catastrophic event. The novel’s premise is chillingly relevant, centered on the fallout from a Senate-approved gas named Qeressa, initially intended as a cure but resulting in widespread devastation.
The protagonist, Ophena Morgenthau, is introduced as an ostensibly ordinary young woman from the quaint town of Detale, Michigan. However, as the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that Ophena’s journey is anything but ordinary. Kimball effectively captures Ophena's evolution from a vulnerable survivor to a resilient leader, anchoring the reader’s empathy and interest. The novel excels in portraying Ophena’s internal and external struggles as she navigates a world that has been transformed into a nightmarish landscape by Qeressa.
One of the novel's strengths lies in its exploration of relationships amid chaos. Ophena’s bond with her friends forms the emotional core of the story. Kimball portrays these relationships with nuance, illustrating how the characters' love and loyalty are both tested and strengthened by the dire circumstances they face. This dynamic adds depth to the characters and heightens the stakes of their journey.
Kimball’s world-building is another notable aspect of "Igniting Polaris." The author paints a vivid picture of the post-Qeressa world, detailing the environmental and societal collapse with a keen eye for detail. The emergence of nightmarish creatures adds a layer of horror and suspense, keeping readers on edge and invested in the characters' fates. The monsters serve as a physical manifestation of the terror and unpredictability of the new world, further complicating the protagonists’ quest for survival.
Despite its strengths, the novel occasionally struggles with pacing. Certain sections feel rushed, with rapid transitions that can momentarily jar the reader out of the immersive experience. Additionally, while the narrative's complexity is generally a positive attribute, it occasionally leads to convoluted plot points that might benefit from further clarification or development.
"Igniting Polaris" raises thought-provoking questions about the consequences of scientific advancements and the ethical responsibilities of those in power. The Senate's role in the deployment of Qeressa serves as a stark reminder of the potential for well-intentioned decisions to yield disastrous outcomes. Kimball doesn’t shy away from critiquing the hubris and shortsightedness of those who wield significant influence over public health and safety.
In conclusion, "Igniting Polaris" is a compelling read that combines elements of dystopian fiction, horror, and emotional drama. Victoria R. Kimball’s ability to create multi-dimensional characters and a richly detailed world makes this book a standout in its genre. Despite minor pacing issues, the novel's emotional depth and suspenseful plot ensure that readers will be thoroughly engaged from beginning to end. "Igniting Polaris" is a testament to the enduring human spirit and the power of connection in the face of overwhelming adversity.
Highly recommend ❤️✨
June 29, 2024
To start, this book was written by a dear friend of mine! She is like a little sister to me and I’m so proud of her for this accomplishment and I am so happy to have read her book! I’m starting there because even though she is close to me, I am going to be honest with my review, as I would with any story that I’ve read. So let me just say that I really enjoyed this book.
It did take me a little longer to get through it because there was no audiobook for the story yet and I have very little time to sit down and read. I also wanted to really take my time with it too and get to know the characters.
The characters in this book were amazing! They all were very unique and I loved the bond that they had with each other. Even when there were fights and disagreements they always were there to support one another overall. Denovan was my favorite character in the book. I found myself really drawn to him and his motivations. I also loved Amara to death. Don’t get me wrong, I liked them all but these two were my favorites. There was a scene where these two were sparring and I could see the martial arts moves that she and I learned in our lessons together very clearly in the writing and I certainly found that enjoyable as well.
I liked the progression in the book as well. It was very fast paced and there was no shortage of action to be had in this post-apocalyptic world. I will say that the passage of time was a little confusing. I almost wish that I could see a timeline of how long everything took because it felt so fast, but then it would be noted that a block of time had passed.
The language in this books is very detailed. Tori is very good at painting emotions and events with comparisons and flowery descriptions. I found her voice and language use intricate. There is one complaint I will say from this and that is how at the beginning of chapters she began them occasionally with these lovely details, but I didn’t know which character I was following until a few paragraphs in. Characters often traded out who took the front running of a chapter or section within a chapter and it gave me some pause before I was able to lock back in once I knew who I was following. It wasn’t too distracting though to be honest.
Overall, this a story of hope, loss, and found family. I really enjoyed it and I definitely recommend it! Congratulations Tori on completing your first book! I am proud of you!
It did take me a little longer to get through it because there was no audiobook for the story yet and I have very little time to sit down and read. I also wanted to really take my time with it too and get to know the characters.
The characters in this book were amazing! They all were very unique and I loved the bond that they had with each other. Even when there were fights and disagreements they always were there to support one another overall. Denovan was my favorite character in the book. I found myself really drawn to him and his motivations. I also loved Amara to death. Don’t get me wrong, I liked them all but these two were my favorites. There was a scene where these two were sparring and I could see the martial arts moves that she and I learned in our lessons together very clearly in the writing and I certainly found that enjoyable as well.
I liked the progression in the book as well. It was very fast paced and there was no shortage of action to be had in this post-apocalyptic world. I will say that the passage of time was a little confusing. I almost wish that I could see a timeline of how long everything took because it felt so fast, but then it would be noted that a block of time had passed.
The language in this books is very detailed. Tori is very good at painting emotions and events with comparisons and flowery descriptions. I found her voice and language use intricate. There is one complaint I will say from this and that is how at the beginning of chapters she began them occasionally with these lovely details, but I didn’t know which character I was following until a few paragraphs in. Characters often traded out who took the front running of a chapter or section within a chapter and it gave me some pause before I was able to lock back in once I knew who I was following. It wasn’t too distracting though to be honest.
Overall, this a story of hope, loss, and found family. I really enjoyed it and I definitely recommend it! Congratulations Tori on completing your first book! I am proud of you!
January 2, 2025
Igniting Polaris is a YA action-adventure story centered on a kind of nerve gas that turns large segments of the population into rage zombies à la 28 Days Later (although I would not classify this as horror). Which could be a lot of fun, but fell short in several ways and ended up being a chore to get through. Main points:
(Minor spoilers below. Major ones are hidden.)
1. The story is centered on a group of friends supporting each other as the world ends. Except we get almost no history as to how these bonds formed and why these people care about each other so deeply. We're simply given a collection of characters and told what great friends they are. Plus, their personalities are nearly interchangeable, with very little distinguishing each person's voice (except Denovan, but more on him later).
2. Near-complete lack of character development. Several horrifically traumatic events happen (including the MC practically getting vivisected as a form of torture) on top of the apocalypse, but the everyone seems to mostly shrug them off except for an occasional throwaway line.
3. The villain is a ridiculous mustache-twirling caricature. The fact that a bunch of teenagers and college students keep mouthing off to him doesn't exactly help. Zero fear or dread inspired.
4. Almost no world-building. The setting is 2070 but could easily have been 2020. Flash drives are still a thing?
5. Ivo uses a wheelchair, but there is little exploration of what this entails in a milieu where everyone is constantly running and fighting. He frankly comes across more as token rep than a fully-realized disabled character.
6. The author apparently thinks Spain is Mexico. Spain is a wealthy, peaceful country in Western Europe. They do not have a violent cartel problem. That was seriously ignorant.
7. Over-reliance on dream sequences and flashback visions for backstory and revelation. These parts are also too literal (dreams in particular are supposed to be largely symbolic) and drag on too long. In a story like this, with no supernatural or magical elements, such narrative devices should provide seasoning, not full-on exposition.
8. And finally my biggest issue, which is that Denovan is BY FAR much more interesting and compelling than Ophena, the designated protagonist. Childhood trauma, history of drug abuse, prickly attitude that provides much-needed tension, drama with his brother, Big Bad Dad, and then it turns out Meanwhile Ophena has about as much personality as Bella Swan and even less backstory. If you find yourself devoting this much effort to a supporting character rather than the main character, then I feel like perhaps this is your main character instead. Maybe he can take over for the sequel.
Now all that being said, author is only 19 and at least can put a readable sentence together (which is more than I can say for some other indie authors I've read), so I'm cutting her some slack in the rating.
Book ends on a cliffhanger to be continued in the sequel.
(Minor spoilers below. Major ones are hidden.)
1. The story is centered on a group of friends supporting each other as the world ends. Except we get almost no history as to how these bonds formed and why these people care about each other so deeply. We're simply given a collection of characters and told what great friends they are. Plus, their personalities are nearly interchangeable, with very little distinguishing each person's voice (except Denovan, but more on him later).
2. Near-complete lack of character development. Several horrifically traumatic events happen (including the MC practically getting vivisected as a form of torture) on top of the apocalypse, but the everyone seems to mostly shrug them off except for an occasional throwaway line.
3. The villain is a ridiculous mustache-twirling caricature. The fact that a bunch of teenagers and college students keep mouthing off to him doesn't exactly help. Zero fear or dread inspired.
4. Almost no world-building. The setting is 2070 but could easily have been 2020. Flash drives are still a thing?
5. Ivo uses a wheelchair, but there is little exploration of what this entails in a milieu where everyone is constantly running and fighting. He frankly comes across more as token rep than a fully-realized disabled character.
6. The author apparently thinks Spain is Mexico. Spain is a wealthy, peaceful country in Western Europe. They do not have a violent cartel problem. That was seriously ignorant.
7. Over-reliance on dream sequences and flashback visions for backstory and revelation. These parts are also too literal (dreams in particular are supposed to be largely symbolic) and drag on too long. In a story like this, with no supernatural or magical elements, such narrative devices should provide seasoning, not full-on exposition.
8. And finally my biggest issue, which is that Denovan is BY FAR much more interesting and compelling than Ophena, the designated protagonist. Childhood trauma, history of drug abuse, prickly attitude that provides much-needed tension, drama with his brother, Big Bad Dad, and then it turns out Meanwhile Ophena has about as much personality as Bella Swan and even less backstory. If you find yourself devoting this much effort to a supporting character rather than the main character, then I feel like perhaps this is your main character instead. Maybe he can take over for the sequel.
Now all that being said, author is only 19 and at least can put a readable sentence together (which is more than I can say for some other indie authors I've read), so I'm cutting her some slack in the rating.
Book ends on a cliffhanger to be continued in the sequel.
July 3, 2024
Wow! For a literary debut I am in awe. First of all, it was beautifully written. The characters were lovable and young at heart. Even the black sheep were written well enough to be loved. The story unraveled in surprising ways with a great story line. I will be waiting for the sequel.
April 22, 2025
Highly highly HIGHLY recommend if you’re into YA dystopian novels, the characters (especially Denovan) are so thoroughly crafted and make the story so gripping, dreadful, and inspiring
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews