Illuminae

by Amie Kaufman
Illuminae cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)
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  • ID: 9994
  • Added: 2026-01-05
  • Updated: 2026-01-05
  • ISBN: 9781780748382
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2015-10-22
  • Reviews: 3

Illuminae is a groundbreaking sci-fi novel that redefines the genre with its unique format and high-stakes narrative. Told through a dossier of hacked documents, the story follows Kady and Ezra as they fight for survival after their planet is invaded. With a deadly plague mutating and an AI that may be more threat than protector, they must uncover the truth behind the evacuation and the fleet's true condition. The novel's innovative storytelling and relentless pace make it a standout in the genre, praised by authors like Marie Lu and Victoria Aveyard. /n/n The book's format, presented as a collection of hacked documents, adds a layer of authenticity and immersion that sets it apart from traditional sci-fi novels. As Kady delves into data hacking to expose the truth, she and Ezra must rely on each other to navigate the dangers that lurk in the shadows. Illuminae is the first book in a trilogy that promises to keep readers on the edge of their seats, with its blend of action, mystery, and cutting-edge technology.

Reviews
Realms of My Mind · 2021-12-07
great 4.30

The book is described as a terrific and terrifying sci-fi adventure, perfect for those looking for a darker tale. The unique format and engaging storytelling are particularly praised.

The reviewer from Realms of My Mind describes Illuminae as an absolutely terrific and terrifying sci-fi adventure, perfect for those looking for a darker tale. They appreciate the unique format, which uses a variety of digital documents to tell the story, making it visually engaging and adding a layer of authenticity. The reviewer also praises the engaging storyline and the way the characters are developed, making the book a standout read. They note that the book has a rough start but quickly picks up pace, keeping the reader hooked until the end. Overall, the book is seen as a refreshing and exciting addition to the sci-fi genre, with a format that sets it apart from traditional novels.

Quick quotes

    ILLUMINAE is an absolutely terrific and terrifying sci-fi adventure.

    The unique format makes it visually engaging and adds a layer of authenticity.

    The engaging storyline and well-developed characters make it a standout read.

Claire Huston · Claire Huston · 2015-12-21
brilliant 4.50

The reviewer loves the book for its rare and proper science fiction elements, making it a standout read. The unique format and engaging story are particularly praised.

Claire Huston's review of Illuminae is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the book's ability to deliver a truly amazing and proper science fiction experience. She appreciates the unique format, which uses a variety of digital documents to tell the story, making it visually engaging and adding a layer of authenticity. Huston also praises the engaging storyline and the way the characters are developed, making the book a standout read. She notes that it's rare to find a science fiction novel that is both innovative and compelling, and Illuminae succeeds on both fronts.

Quick quotes

    It is rare to find a truly amazing and proper science fiction novel, and this was one of the rare ones.

    The unique format makes it visually engaging and adds a layer of authenticity.

    The engaging storyline and well-developed characters make it a standout read.

Goodreads · 2015-10-20
excellent 4.20

The book is praised for its unique format and engaging storytelling, making it a standout in the sci-fi genre. Readers appreciate the blend of romance, action, and horror.

Goodreads reviewers consistently highlight the innovative format of Illuminae, which uses memos, emails, and other digital documents to tell its story. This approach not only makes the book visually engaging but also adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative. Many readers are drawn to the blend of genres, including romance, action, and horror, which keeps the story compelling and unpredictable. The characters are particularly well-received, with their development and interactions adding depth to the plot. Overall, the book is seen as a refreshing and exciting addition to the sci-fi genre, with a format that sets it apart from traditional novels.

Quick quotes

    This book is a masterpiece of storytelling and innovation.

    The unique format makes it a standout in the sci-fi genre.

    The blend of romance, action, and horror keeps the story compelling.

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