I really loved this book. One, it is told from the perspective of Khara, who is trying to 'ecover her memory on top of getting used to the responsibilities that come with being the almost-wife of the leader of a country at war instead of simply giving us all the answers, Ardis forces the reader to follow the preadcrumbs that Khara is slowly finding as well. And the relationships between the characters are well-written. It doesn't matter if it's a romantic or a platonic relationship; they feel authentic and real (even the ones that eventually are found out to be based on lies). I am super excited to see where this series goes next. This may be a longer book, but it is worth the time and energy ( )

I feel like Fantasy books are so hard to get right. The world building needs to be detailed and captivating, the story needs to be unique and exciting and the character need to be interesting… this book has it all. I was pleasantly surprised about this book.

I think the author has a really good writing style, it leans towards YA/tween style but it’s nice and flowing. The author does a great job of creating a picture in your head which really helps the story come to life. The author describes this book to be similar to the book Shatter Me and I definitely think so. The mystery within the fantasy story is so fun.

I will say this book was a bit slow and repetitive for me. The amount of conversations that were had about Khara’s headaches and how much Ramsey loves Khara was too many. I felt like this book would be really benefited with another 1 or maybe even 2 subplots. Something else small but important to follow.

The ending was really good, so much actions and the plot twists were very exciting, I just wish the middle had a bit more action. I love a good plot twist that you kinda see coming but it ends up being much more intense and complicated than you originally think. Absolutely loved Gage and Emila. ( )

"Smoke and Light" by Kristen Ardis is an enthralling journey through a war-torn kingdom, deftly weaving together themes of memory, duty, and the complexities of personal and political loyalty. The protagonist, Khara Laveya, is a future sovereign grappling with the aftermath of a rebel attack that has robbed her of crucial memories. Her desperate quest to reclaim these lost pieces of herself is both poignant and compelling.
What struck me most about this novel is its rich character development. Khara is a multidimensional character, torn between her obligations to her kingdom and her personal desire to rediscover her past. This internal conflict is beautifully portrayed, making her struggles and growth feel authentic and deeply relatable. The depiction of her haunted dreams and the mysterious grove adds a layer of intrigue and suspense that kept me invested in her journey.
Ardis has a talent for world-building, creating a vivid and immersive setting that is both captivating and treacherous. The kingdom’s political turmoil and the looming threat of rebel forces provide a constant tension that underscores Khara's personal quest. The author’s prose is descriptive and evocative, painting a clear picture of the world and its dangers without falling into the trap of over-explanation.
The novel's exploration of themes such as love, loss, and betrayal is handled with a deft touch. The relationships Khara navigates are complex and multifaceted, reflecting the tangled web of loyalties and lies that define her world. These interpersonal dynamics add depth to the story, making the stakes feel both personal and profound.
One of the most compelling aspects of "Smoke and Light" is the way it balances Khara’s personal journey with the larger narrative of her kingdom’s fate. This balance keeps the story grounded in Khara’s perspective while still acknowledging the broader implications of her actions. The tension between personal desire and duty is a recurring theme that resonates throughout the novel, making Khara’s choices and sacrifices all the more impactful.
Overall, "Smoke and Light" is a beautifully crafted tale that combines emotional depth with a gripping plot. Kristen Ardis has created a world and a protagonist that are both memorable and compelling. This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys stories that delve into the intricacies of memory, loyalty, and the enduring struggle between personal desires and larger responsibilities.

I really loved this book. One, it is told from the perspective of Khara, who is trying to recover her memory on top of getting used to the responsibilities that come with being the almost-wife of the leader of a country at war. Instead of simply giving us all the answers, Ardis forces the reader to follow the breadcrumbs that Khara is slowly finding as well.

And the relationships between the characters are well-written. It doesn't matter if it's a romantic or a platonic relationship; they feel authentic and real (even the ones that eventually are found out to be based on lies).

I am super excited to see where this series goes next. This may be a longer book, but it is worth the time and energy. ( )

I fell in love with this book! I mean within the first sentence you’re thrown right in! The twists and turns had me turning the pages so fast, and needing more! The characters are so well written and you can’t help but love them, (especially the love interest!). It took a turn I was not expecting but in the best way!

The plot and conflicts had me hooked. It’s so strange to look back on the read as a whole and realize that not a lot of things actually happened in the book, but it didn’t feel that way in the reading. It never feels slow. If you love forgotten memories, unraveling mystery, unexpected turns, then you’ll love this book! ( )