Mette Jakobsen, Fireflies in Flight (The Towers #2), HarperCollins, June 2023, 297 pp., RRP $19.99 (pbk), ISBN 9781460762097
(note: this review contains a spoiler from the first book in this series)
Mette Jakobsen delivers yet another captivating novel with Fireflies in Flight, the highly anticipated sequel to The Snow Laundry. This mesmerising page-turner immerses readers in a hauntingly dystopian universe where survival demands unwavering strength, relentless determination, and the power of love. While the narrative delves into the depths of loss and grief, it also beautifully explores the transformative power of friendship and personal growth, offering a glimmer of hope in the midst of darkness.
Ally is running on pure adrenaline. In the wake of her boyfriend’s murder and her escape from the nightmarish Towers—a prison for homeless youth—she embarks on a perilous journey to retrieve crucial research. This research holds the key to saving her loved ones from unspeakable experiments. However, as she returns to the city she once called home, she encounters only ruins and patrols. The Staff, armed with cold stares and formidable weapons, oppress and torment the people as the Administration tightens its grip on the capital, leaving Ally nowhere to hide.
Narrowly escaping the Staff, Ally finds herself face to face with fellow runaways who have evaded enlistment in the Youth Army. United by their shared struggle, they must make daily decisions to fight, run or hide to stay alive. Time becomes a pressing matter as Ally learns that the experiments are already underway. Ally is willing to risk everything, even her own life, to achieve her mission. But will her sacrifices be enough to save her friends? In a world where every decision is a matter of life and death, Ally’s ultimate test lies in placing her trust wisely. Can she rely on these newfound allies to aid her cause and bring an end to the atrocities? Can she rely on Josh, the charismatic leader of the resistance group?
Fireflies in Flight is a gripping and emotionally charged journey that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, yearning for the salvation of those Ally holds dear. This novel is recommended for readers aged fourteen and above, as it explores mature themes such as psychological abuse, assault, and torture, alongside instances of strong language. Fans of the gripping drama found in the Divergent series are sure to find this series equally enthralling and should consider delving into its captivating pages.
Reviewed by India Boon
