Review of Cities of Smoke and Starlight, penned by Alli Earnest
A Thrilling Journey Through "Cities of Smoke and Starlight"
"Cities of Smoke and Starlight", the debut novel by Alli Earnest, is a captivating blend of science fantasy and steampunk, offering readers a heart-wrenching, enemies-to-lovers romance set in a world of hoverships and ancient First Earth artifacts[1]. The story follows protagonists Hallie and Kase as they strive to secure an alliance with a mystical race to protect their kingdom against a formidable enemy[1].
This immersive, romantic adventure is filled with mystery and adventure, appealing to fans of slow-burn romance and steampunk aesthetics[2][4]. The characters are unique, each with their own internal conflicts and personalities, making for a rich and engaging narrative[3].
The book's world-building is praised for its fun and intriguing nature, with the fantasy elements seamlessly meshing with the steampunk feel and technology[5]. However, some readers have noted inconsistent and mal-fitting, world-specific cuss words, which may pull the reader out of the story occasionally[6].
The plot revolves around Kase's mission to save his country from war with the neighboring Cerulenes[7]. A twist is introduced when Kase's mission is complicated by the fact that the Yalven scholar hired for the trip is none other than Hallie Walker, who humiliated and slapped him at the theater days before[8].
The story is set in a post-Earth society that crash-landed on a random planet and had to make do because there was no way off[9]. The city and its inhabitants are described vaguely, leaving the reader without a clear mental image[10]. Despite these minor shortcomings, the book is well-received for its engaging storyline, meaningful romance, and strong character development[1][2].
The book contains medium/high levels of violence, including graphic dismemberment in the final battle[11]. However, the slow-burn romance, which is well-received by the reviewer, features no sexual content[12].
As the first installment in the "Gate Chronicles" series, "Cities of Smoke and Starlight" leaves readers eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this thrilling journey[1][2]. Despite a few areas that could use improvement, the book's unique blend of genres, compelling narrative, and engaging characters make it a must-read for fans of steampunk and science fantasy.
This engrossing narrative, set within the "Gate Chronicles" series, not only offers a thrilling journey through the city but also delves into the realm of books that cater to enthusiasts of science fantasy and steampunk genres, serving as a source of entertainment. Hallie and Kase's quest for an alliance with a mystical race in this story is complemented by the romantic elements, further enhancing the overall entertainment value of the book.
