Where There's Smoke: A Short Story

Jodi Picoult

May 2014 · Sold by Ballantine Books

About this ebook

Bestselling author Jodi Picoult is a masterful storyteller, who “writes with a fine touch, a sharp eye for detail, and a firm grasp of the delicacy and complexity of human relationships” (The Boston Globe). Now, in this original short story, available exclusively as an eBook, Picoult introduces Serenity Jones, one of the fascinating characters from her eagerly awaited new novel, Leaving Time.
 
Even as a child, Serenity Jones knew she possessed unusual psychic gifts. Now, decades later, she’s an acclaimed medium and host of her own widely viewed TV show, where she delivers messages to the living from loved ones who have passed. Lately, though, her efforts to boost ratings and garner fame have compromised her clairvoyant instincts. When Serenity books a young war widow to appear as a guest, the episode quickly unravels, stirring up a troubling controversy. And as she tries to undo the damage—to both her reputation and her show—Serenity finds that pride comes at a high price.
 
Praise for Jodi Picoult
 
“Picoult is a rare writer who delivers, book after book, a winning combination of the literary and the commercial.”—Entertainment Weekly
 
“Picoult is a solid, lively storyteller.”—The New York Times
 
“If Picoult were a general, she would be Patton; if a sports franchise, the New York Yankees; if a natural phenomenon, the sunrise.”—Tampa Tribune

Ratings and reviews

Well- I do like the issues set up for the main character of the short story, and the imperfection/flaws that Josie possessed. But its a story that isn't really complete in itself. Its a veritable mine of problems-from the clients all the way to throw away TV hosts joking about somebody's mistake in hunting for a dead kid. The showmanship attitude kinda fits in how this short story is more of a hook to picoult's new novel then something standalone.

This story drew me in and kept me there. It was unlike anything else I've ever read in a good way. I really admired the main character Serenity, and felt that she was misunderstood by many. She did have a superiority complex which is what lead her to a falling out with her spirit guides. Most of her books that I read are very similar with the illnesses and the morality, but this was different in a good way and I'm pretty sure that I will read the next book that features Serenity.

I've been in a reading slump lately this was a good pick me up. I believe in paranormal and psychics which might have made me like it more. I was a little confused by the ending but would have enjoyed a whole novel dedicated to the character of Serenity and more in the story behind Betsy's husband death. Good quick read. Read most off it while waiting for an oil change.

About the author

Jodi Picoult is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of twenty-five novels, including Small Great Things, Leaving Time, The Storyteller, Lone Wolf, Sing You Home, House Rules, Handle with Care, Change of Heart, Nineteen Minutes, and My Sister’s Keeper. She is also the author, with daughter Samantha van Leer, of two young adult novels, Between the Lines and Off the Page. Picoult lives in New Hampshire with her husband and three children.