Review of Cities of Smoke and Starlight: A Literary Journey by Alli Earnest
In the realm of science fantasy, Alli Earnest's debut book, Cities of Smoke and Starlight, is a captivating blend of steampunk, Indiana Jones-esque quests, and slow-burn romance.
The story revolves around Kase Shackley, a protagonist on a secret mission to forge an alliance with the Yalvs, an indigenous culture, to save his kingdom from impending war. His journey is fraught with political intrigue, magical threats, and personal conflicts, as he navigates alongside Hallie Walker, a character who complicates Kase's mission due to a past encounter at the city theater.
The novel is set in a richly detailed world, where steampunk elements intertwine with magic and technological remnants from a past Earth. The characters lead the narrative, exploring a world filled with hoverships, crumbling artifacts, and the promise of adventure.
Hallie and Kase's perilous quest to unite forces against a formidable enemy is framed within a slow-building romantic subplot. Although the romance remains chaste, it adds depth to the characters and their journey.
The world Earnest has built in the book is engaging and fun to explore, with vivid descriptions of jungles, beaches, and ruins that the characters must fight their way through. However, the descriptions of the city and its inhabitants are often vague, leaving the reader without a clear mental image.
The pacing of the novel is great, and the adventure is enjoyable, with the story taking unexpected turns that keep readers on their toes. The book contains mild language, with the use of world-specific cuss words, and medium to high levels of violence, including graphic dismemberment in the final battle.
Despite its strengths, the novel does have a few minor flaws. Some plot points are left unexplored, and the use of world-specific cuss words can feel awkward or inconsistent at times. Additionally, the potential for romantic competition for Kase is introduced late in the book but is quickly resolved, leaving no tension or conflict for future books.
Overall, Cities of Smoke and Starlight is a thrilling adventure that offers a unique blend of steampunk, magic, and romance. The characters are well-developed and separate, each with their own internal conflicts and personalities. If you're a fan of the genre, this book is definitely worth a read.
In this engaging narrative, Alli Earnest's debut work, Cities of Smoke and Starlight, extends beyond the realm of science fantasy, delving into protagonist Kase Shackley's lifestyle as he juggles missions, political intrigue, and a slow-burn romance with Hallie Walker. This complex relationship, while adding depth to their journey, also introduces readers to the realm of books that transport them through the richly detailed world filled with steampunk elements, hoverships, and imaginative entertainment.
