Amber Smoke

Kristin Cast

Jun 2015 · The Escaped Book 1 · Diversion Books

About this ebook

From the #1 New York Times–bestselling co-author of the House of Night series—a new saga “with a unique twist on Greek mythology and heart-stopping action” (#1 New York Times–bestselling author Jennifer L. Armentrout).
 
In a world parallel to our own, the souls of the damned are caged, spending eternity in a torment that mirrors the suffering they created in life. They are watched over by the Furies . . . until something goes terribly wrong. Someone has opened the cage.
 
When untold terrors cross into our world, the Furies send a great, albeit untested warrior—their only son, Alek—to bring those souls back. Alek is young and handsome, headstrong and impulsive, and he won’t be able to do it alone.
 
Eva has grown up beautiful and beloved, but surrounded by secrets. Now, after being hunted in an ancient feud that threatens her life, she will become the hunter.
 
With the police closing in and two worlds on the verge of crumbling, Alek and Eva must find each other, discover the limits of their powers, and work together to save everything they hold dear—including one another.
 
“With the perfect mix of thrills and chills, along with characters who pop off the page and a gripping plot, this explosive new series is perfect for any Hunger Games and Divergent fans.” —RT Book Review
 
“Amber Smoke keeps you riveted to the very last page.” —Jennifer L. Armentrout, #1 New York Times–bestselling author
 
“Thrilling and funny with just the right amount of magic. Brilliant!” —Kresley Cole, #1 New York Times–bestselling author
 
“Cast’s wit, creativity and talent shine! I turned the pages at lightning speed, ready for more! What a tasty treat!” —Gena Showalter, New York Times–bestselling author

Ratings and reviews

Amber Smoke by Kristin Cast is the first book in the Escaped series. The Furies (Maiden, Crone, and Mother—the phases of women) lived in Tartarus. They are the jailers who keep the evil (those who threatened to end humanity) contained. But then the Maiden fell in love with Galen Argyris (he gave up his soul for his son). Their true love (which was forbidden) has cast a curse over Tartarus (infected it) and prisoners have escaped. Maiden goes to Hera for help. Hera gives the Maiden a son, Alek who will be a warrior. He need to bring back the prisoners that have escaped. Alek will need to work with Eva. Eva Kostas is a descendant of Pythia (first Oracle of Delphi). The two need to work together to end the darkness/curse. But first Alek needs to find Eva before the hunter does. Can Eva and Alek complete their mission and save Tartarus? I found Amber Smoke to be juvenile, flat, and cheesy (especially the romance between Alek and Eva). The characters did not feel real (they were not developed or fleshed out). They never came alive for me. The dialogue is stilted and awkward. I’m afraid I found the novel to be silly and just not for me. It sounded like a good book, but I just did not enjoy the final product (I finished it though). One scene that seemed especially ridiculous was when Eva and Alek find each other. They have people chasing them and they need to move quickly (run), but they stop to share a kiss (they are about to be captured). I found myself laughing. I give Amber Smoke 2 out of 5 stars (did not like but good idea). The worst part is the novel ends with a cliffhanger. Normally, these would ensure I read the next book. But in the case of this series, I will not be reading Scarlet Rain. I received a complimentary copy of Amber Smoke from NetGalley in exchange for an honest evaluation of the novel.

As a house of night fan i de ided to try Kristens first solo novel. Totally loved it and love her style of writing. Will defo be following the whole series

I loved it, the only reason I gave it four stars is because the ending was too abrupt and the novel too short.

About the author

Kristin Cast is a NY Times and USA Today bestselling author who teamed with her mother to write the wildly successful House of Night series. She has editorial credits, a thriving t-shirt line, and a passion for all things paranormal. When away from her writing desk, Kristin loves relaxing with her significant other and their dogs, and discovering new hobbies. This year she'll work on swimming, yoga, and adding to her Doctor Who collection.