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Gate Chronicles #1
Cities of Smoke and Starlight: Gate Chronicles, Book 1
Perfect for fans of
Dune
,
Pride & Prejudice
, and anyone who believed
Rogue One
needed a romantic subplot.
Two tortured souls. One world on the brink of war.
Kase Shackley is an embittered hover pilot still reeling from the night his sister died in his arms. He's a screw up in every sense, so when a pilot nearly dies on his watch, he faces serious charges. Seeking to clear his name, he flies a ragtag crew to a lost and dangerous land from which they might never return. If only he didn't have to work with the infuriating bookshop girl who insulted him with Shakespeare
Hallie Walker, top scholar at the University, is jaded by the glittering society shed always dreamed of joining. Raised in the mountains, she fled to the city to forget her painful past. When she loses her bookshop job and the promise of school tuition, she agrees to a top-secret government mission if only for the promised substantial sum upon her return. Now if she could just ignore the ungrateful, arrogant prat of a pilot
In a world of hoverships and crumbling First Earth artifacts, it's up to Hallie and Kase to accomplish the secure an alliance with an elusive, mystical race to help defend against a kingdom with dangerous technology and ancient magic. If they fail, the war will be lost before it even begins.
Cities of Smoke & Starlight is a heart-wrenching, character-driven steampunk novel featuring a clean, slow burn enemies-to-lovers romance.
Two tortured souls. One world on the brink of war.
Kase Shackley is an embittered hover pilot still reeling from the night his sister died in his arms. He's a screw up in every sense, so when a pilot nearly dies on his watch, he faces serious charges. Seeking to clear his name, he flies a ragtag crew to a lost and dangerous land from which they might never return. If only he didn't have to work with the infuriating bookshop girl who insulted him with Shakespeare
Hallie Walker, top scholar at the University, is jaded by the glittering society shed always dreamed of joining. Raised in the mountains, she fled to the city to forget her painful past. When she loses her bookshop job and the promise of school tuition, she agrees to a top-secret government mission if only for the promised substantial sum upon her return. Now if she could just ignore the ungrateful, arrogant prat of a pilot
In a world of hoverships and crumbling First Earth artifacts, it's up to Hallie and Kase to accomplish the secure an alliance with an elusive, mystical race to help defend against a kingdom with dangerous technology and ancient magic. If they fail, the war will be lost before it even begins.
Cities of Smoke & Starlight is a heart-wrenching, character-driven steampunk novel featuring a clean, slow burn enemies-to-lovers romance.
Audible Audio
First published May 4, 2022
1615 people are currently reading
27923 people want to read
About the author
Alli Earnest
3 books419 followersALLI EARNEST drinks way too much coffee and is obsessed with burning redwood-scented candles, but growing up with two sisters, she’s always been a tad overdramatic. It doesn’t help that she enjoys books with dragons, wizards, and laser swords.
Graduating with a bachelor's degree in Middle Grades Education, Alli taught English Language Arts for five years and tried to convince thirteen-year-olds that Poe wasn’t nearly as crazy as he sounded.
At present, Alli writes science-fiction and fantasy from an office filled with books and other collectibles. She’s active on Instagram and YouTube, fangirling over her favorite books and documenting her author life. She lives in the southern US with her husband, son, and dogs.
Graduating with a bachelor's degree in Middle Grades Education, Alli taught English Language Arts for five years and tried to convince thirteen-year-olds that Poe wasn’t nearly as crazy as he sounded.
At present, Alli writes science-fiction and fantasy from an office filled with books and other collectibles. She’s active on Instagram and YouTube, fangirling over her favorite books and documenting her author life. She lives in the southern US with her husband, son, and dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 742 reviews
January 3, 2023
when she said slowburn romance she meant SLOWburn (can you tell I feel cheated by the mere crumbs I was fed??? CAN YOU??). the worldbuilding was decent, the plot dragged on at times, but they were both good for the most part. the dialogue on the other hand. . . quite on the nose and cliche during dramatic scenes— it just really irked me and took me out of the story. but I have high hopes for the rest of the series, fingers crossed !!
Want to read
November 19, 2025Sometimes by only seeing gorgeous book covers like this is enough of a reason for me to be happy being a reader.
Also, I’ve been curious about this book for some time now. I hope I’ll love the story as much as I like the cover.
Also, I’ve been curious about this book for some time now. I hope I’ll love the story as much as I like the cover.
April 29, 2022
Action, adventure, and mystery all tangle together in this amazing story to create one pulse-pounding ride (literally)! Earnest is a natural-born storyteller. I was captivated from page one. If you love adventure with a hint of slow-burn, plane crashes, hidden cities, and brewing wars, this is for you.
This is a Six of Crows, Indiana Jones, Violet Evergarden mashup and I am HERE for the rest. Like really, where is the rest, I need it.
And this cover!! Can we gush about this cover!
This is a Six of Crows, Indiana Jones, Violet Evergarden mashup and I am HERE for the rest. Like really, where is the rest, I need it.
And this cover!! Can we gush about this cover!
September 26, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
I have mixed feelings about this book...I didn't really care for the romance but I did really like the adventure/action parts of the story, yet I felt like the world-building was trying to be too mysterious so it ended up just being confusing.
-The romace: this is a sloooooooow burn. Not really a burn at all in this book, you get a slight taste of a romance pretty much at the end. It's an enemies to lovers trope but the banter was just too mean and downright childish at times to me. I couldn't see them as having romantic feelings for each other by the end, just didn't seem like that would happen based on their past interactions. I will say their interactions got more tolerable by the halfway point though.
-The characters: I didn't really like nor feel connected to either of the main characters, especially Kase. He was just too rude, arrogant, and self-centered, and like the author was trying to overplay the idea he's misunderstood. Hallie was more interesting and likeable than Kase but she definitely had her own childish moments. There are some things about her character I'm intrigued by and hope to get answers to in the second book. .
-The action/adventure: it was pretty interesting to me and I enjoyed the quest aspect of it. The action/fight scenes were pretty intense. Be prepared though there is death in this book.
-The World building: I feel like there's good bones here but I needed more. I know the author's intention is to answer (hopefully) everything in book 2 but I think at least a little more concrete info should have been provided. By being too mysterious with the answers, at times it was confusing what was going on. BUT it is an interesting world and I'm curious what those answers are to read book 2.
Content: no sexual content, there is substitute cursing, alcohol and tobacco use (minimal), blood, death, death of a sibling, PTSD, "magic" that might not be magic
Christian faith rating: 0/3
I have mixed feelings about this book...I didn't really care for the romance but I did really like the adventure/action parts of the story, yet I felt like the world-building was trying to be too mysterious so it ended up just being confusing.
-The romace: this is a sloooooooow burn. Not really a burn at all in this book, you get a slight taste of a romance pretty much at the end. It's an enemies to lovers trope but the banter was just too mean and downright childish at times to me. I couldn't see them as having romantic feelings for each other by the end, just didn't seem like that would happen based on their past interactions. I will say their interactions got more tolerable by the halfway point though.
-The characters: I didn't really like nor feel connected to either of the main characters, especially Kase. He was just too rude, arrogant, and self-centered, and like the author was trying to overplay the idea he's misunderstood. Hallie was more interesting and likeable than Kase but she definitely had her own childish moments. There are some things about her character I'm intrigued by and hope to get answers to in the second book. .
-The action/adventure: it was pretty interesting to me and I enjoyed the quest aspect of it. The action/fight scenes were pretty intense. Be prepared though there is death in this book.
-The World building: I feel like there's good bones here but I needed more. I know the author's intention is to answer (hopefully) everything in book 2 but I think at least a little more concrete info should have been provided. By being too mysterious with the answers, at times it was confusing what was going on. BUT it is an interesting world and I'm curious what those answers are to read book 2.
Content: no sexual content, there is substitute cursing, alcohol and tobacco use (minimal), blood, death, death of a sibling, PTSD, "magic" that might not be magic
Christian faith rating: 0/3
April 21, 2025
5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
RTC! 😆😆
Be prepared for a LOT of fangirling!
RTC! 😆😆
Be prepared for a LOT of fangirling!
May 4, 2022
A beautiful blend of fantasy and sci-fi, CITIES OF SMOKE AND STARLIGHT crafts a fantastic world full of danger, daring, and beauty, with a plot woven throughout full of determination and redemption that was truly a pleasure to read! Looking forward to seeing how more threads tie together and schemes unravel in subsequent books!
August 29, 2022
Super fun read! Love the star wars and Dune vibes mixed with with the Victoria and Pride and prejudice feel! I loved the character driven story and the entire team felt like a friend group I would hang out with!
No spoilers but that ending. *sobs into a handkerchief*
Can't wait for book 2!
Also, a million stars for that stunning cover.
No spoilers but that ending. *sobs into a handkerchief*
Can't wait for book 2!
Also, a million stars for that stunning cover.
April 24, 2024
This was A LOT of work for a 3 star book!
.
I fell prey to the constant Instagram ads that promoted this book as Anastasia meets Rogue One. Spoiler: this book in no way resembles those two movies!
.
I kept reading because I needed to know what happened, but now that it's over, I don't even fully comprehend what happened.
.
That said, I might read book 2 just to see if I can understand the magical system in this world.
.
Warning: the main male character has curly hair, which is pointed out no less than 70 times throughout the book. He is constantly running his hand through his hair, which everyone with curly hair knows isn't something you do. Also, having curly hair was basically his entire personality. I almost quit this book after one chapter mentioned his curly hair 3 times in 4 paragraphs. Curly hair isn't a personality trait.
.
I fell prey to the constant Instagram ads that promoted this book as Anastasia meets Rogue One. Spoiler: this book in no way resembles those two movies!
.
I kept reading because I needed to know what happened, but now that it's over, I don't even fully comprehend what happened.
.
That said, I might read book 2 just to see if I can understand the magical system in this world.
.
Warning: the main male character has curly hair, which is pointed out no less than 70 times throughout the book. He is constantly running his hand through his hair, which everyone with curly hair knows isn't something you do. Also, having curly hair was basically his entire personality. I almost quit this book after one chapter mentioned his curly hair 3 times in 4 paragraphs. Curly hair isn't a personality trait.
January 11, 2023
I have to drop this. I've been slogging to get halfway and I just can't live like this anymore. This writer badly needs an editor. It reads awfully, the swearwords are awkward and terrible, too many unrelated similies that make no sense contextually, and too great a fondness for the full stop. It's clunky, the characters are generally awful, I just can't do it.
December 27, 2023
It's so rare to find modern fiction that is clean but also has a good plot and good writing. This checks all the boxes. I agree with the author in that this is very reminiscent of Rogue One, Pride and Prejudice, and Anastasia. I would also add that it feels a little like Wingfeather Saga.
In a nutshell, it's the story of a quest to find the ancient magical natives of Yalvara, with a team made up of people with different skills. There's a very slowborn enemies-to-lovers romance with only a few hugs and almost kisses. The banter is very reminiscent of the movies mentioned above. There's also complicated family relationships, and each of the characters has past trauma that affects every part of their lives.
Only read this book if you want it to break your heart.
Content: Not great parent/child relationships, mentions of pregnancy out of wedlock (very minor), lots and lots of euphemisms (I don't love the way they talk, even if there aren't actual bad words), a few deaths, some violence (bloody but not gory), and almost kisses.
In a nutshell, it's the story of a quest to find the ancient magical natives of Yalvara, with a team made up of people with different skills. There's a very slowborn enemies-to-lovers romance with only a few hugs and almost kisses. The banter is very reminiscent of the movies mentioned above. There's also complicated family relationships, and each of the characters has past trauma that affects every part of their lives.
Only read this book if you want it to break your heart.
Content: Not great parent/child relationships, mentions of pregnancy out of wedlock (very minor), lots and lots of euphemisms (I don't love the way they talk, even if there aren't actual bad words), a few deaths, some violence (bloody but not gory), and almost kisses.
January 14, 2024
There were some small things I liked about this book (like mentions of the Odyssey and Shakespeare and how she didn’t like cold tea) but otherwise I just didn’t like this book.
I’m not sure why I don’t really like it but it just wasn’t my kinda book. And the “romance” kinda irked me.
Oh, I did also like that she sketched everything but then she lost the sketchbook sooo... THAT was the saddest part of the book
I’m not sure why I don’t really like it but it just wasn’t my kinda book. And the “romance” kinda irked me.
Oh, I did also like that she sketched everything but then she lost the sketchbook sooo... THAT was the saddest part of the book
September 6, 2025
Oh my stars, this book is AMAZING!
How do I even start? First of all, I love Kase! He is so awesome!
THE BANTER, oh, it brings joy to my day!
My favorite quotes of all time are in this book!
I just got to say read it, read it, read it!
Now bye, I've got to go read the next one!🏃♀️
12+
How do I even start? First of all, I love Kase! He is so awesome!
THE BANTER, oh, it brings joy to my day!
My favorite quotes of all time are in this book!
I just got to say read it, read it, read it!
Now bye, I've got to go read the next one!🏃♀️
12+
August 31, 2025
Rating- TBC
(Kindle Unlimited
Coming back to write a review but I never thought I would have such a good time. It was out of my comfort zone but was worth giving it a shot. Highly recommended if you like Divine Rivals. Going to go and start the second book now
(Kindle Unlimited
Coming back to write a review but I never thought I would have such a good time. It was out of my comfort zone but was worth giving it a shot. Highly recommended if you like Divine Rivals. Going to go and start the second book now
November 21, 2024
hear me out it’s kinda like Atlantis meets Treasure Planet and this bitch is way into The Odyssey which is like, a choice
January 27, 2024
Somewhere between a 2.5 & 3…I reallllly wanted to like this book, and there were parts that showed promise and were exciting. Ultimately, the world-building was super confusing so I couldn’t always figure out what exactly was happening and where and to who.
Read
January 14, 2024so...
I picked up this because the author is a PHENOMAL marketer so I was seeing it literally everywhere (kudos to her!) and the cover is adorable (he looks like Eddie Redmayne) and I need more Star Wars-inspired stuff in my life and yep. *grins sheepishly*
In the end, I had mixed feelings about it (and a smidge annoyance it's a series, though this ended more satisfactorily than some reviews said) so apologies if the review is confusing.
The enemies-to-lovers bit was enemies-to-loversing, and I found it believable, amusing, and 80% less toxic than I usually find such. Great fun. 👏
The steampunk vibes! I really enjoyed them, and there was a good amount of worldbuilding without feeling shoehorned in. The fantasy elements caught me completely off guard, though, but that's likely because I didn't do my research.
I loved Ebba and Professor Christie, and I need more of them. Hallie was a great heroine, and I loved her adventurous, scholarly side. And don't get me started on Zeke! I like the sweet, not-angry ones. (I still have questions about him.)
but...
I got dangerously close to DNFing multiple times in the middle because of the pacing and structure of stakes raised then easily solved, stakes raised again and solved again. Maybe that's a travelogue thing I'm not used to? It did pick up in the last bit with lasting consequences to the events and some huge payoffs, so I did end up enjoying it in the end.
I don't know yet if/when this mood reader will get to book two, but I'm sure it'll be fabulous. ;)
CW: fake cursing, magic, violence/gore.
I picked up this because the author is a PHENOMAL marketer so I was seeing it literally everywhere (kudos to her!) and the cover is adorable (he looks like Eddie Redmayne) and I need more Star Wars-inspired stuff in my life and yep. *grins sheepishly*
In the end, I had mixed feelings about it (and a smidge annoyance it's a series, though this ended more satisfactorily than some reviews said) so apologies if the review is confusing.
The enemies-to-lovers bit was enemies-to-loversing, and I found it believable, amusing, and 80% less toxic than I usually find such. Great fun. 👏
The steampunk vibes! I really enjoyed them, and there was a good amount of worldbuilding without feeling shoehorned in. The fantasy elements caught me completely off guard, though, but that's likely because I didn't do my research.
I loved Ebba and Professor Christie, and I need more of them. Hallie was a great heroine, and I loved her adventurous, scholarly side. And don't get me started on Zeke! I like the sweet, not-angry ones. (I still have questions about him.)
but...
I got dangerously close to DNFing multiple times in the middle because of the pacing and structure of stakes raised then easily solved, stakes raised again and solved again. Maybe that's a travelogue thing I'm not used to? It did pick up in the last bit with lasting consequences to the events and some huge payoffs, so I did end up enjoying it in the end.
I don't know yet if/when this mood reader will get to book two, but I'm sure it'll be fabulous. ;)
CW: fake cursing, magic, violence/gore.
March 5, 2024
Well, after a long time of not being on Goodreads and posting reviews, I read this book and knew I needed to write a review. I read this book in 49 hours and must say it was a wild ride, This book contains emotions, action, and a good story line. I think the best thing in this book is the characters because of the things you can relate to, and they don't feel like unrealistic people who have perfect lives. I also liked how this author pulls together and even mentions books like the Odyssey and Shakespeare (the book in itself is an Odyssey story), so the author knows great classics. Now, the story was okay, but I say the best part of the book was the characters. There is some mild romance (look at Haley's review for more), not leading to much more than a few hugs and one kiss on the check and hair, and even those were not that romantic. As Haley said in her review, I would not read this if you were not looking to cry, and no, I did not cry. There were some deaths, but not too many, and the descriptions were short.
Overall, great book. I would recommend it for ages 14 and up for boys and 13 and up for girls. I will be returning with more reviews soon.
Overall, great book. I would recommend it for ages 14 and up for boys and 13 and up for girls. I will be returning with more reviews soon.
May 5, 2022
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a review.
This story is reminiscent of a Jules Verne adventure with its steam punk feel and mysterious, magical other beings that may or may not still exist . It also reminded me of Kenneth Oppel’s Airborn series.
I was invested in Kase and Hallie’s story and was excited to see how and when the enemies would turn into lovers.
Unfortunately the world building and politics got a little confusing and muddled for me. The politics especially were hard to follow. But I read on in the hopes that I would understand later. It was Kase and Hallie that kept me glued to this book.
Once I got to the last third of the book, I realized that Kase and Hallie were more interesting as enemies and the mystery behind the Yalvs was more interesting as a mystery.
Needless to say, I was extremely gripped at the beginning, happy each day to pick up the book. It’s just those last chapters that left me a bit unsatisfied.
This story is reminiscent of a Jules Verne adventure with its steam punk feel and mysterious, magical other beings that may or may not still exist . It also reminded me of Kenneth Oppel’s Airborn series.
I was invested in Kase and Hallie’s story and was excited to see how and when the enemies would turn into lovers.
Unfortunately the world building and politics got a little confusing and muddled for me. The politics especially were hard to follow. But I read on in the hopes that I would understand later. It was Kase and Hallie that kept me glued to this book.
Once I got to the last third of the book, I realized that Kase and Hallie were more interesting as enemies and the mystery behind the Yalvs was more interesting as a mystery.
Needless to say, I was extremely gripped at the beginning, happy each day to pick up the book. It’s just those last chapters that left me a bit unsatisfied.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 27, 2024
I. LOVED. THIS. BOOK!!!!!!!!!!!! In MY opinion, I liked it better than any book I've ever read! (That eliminates Pride and Prejudice, Emma, Swanford Abbey, etc.) I can NOT explain how well written this book is. You can just FEEL the pain or joy in characters throughout the book. A LOT of detail (which I loved) therefore it gives you more room to imagine what a certain room or thing might look like. I loved the Dune and pride and prejudice 'vibes' it gave off. Kudos to Alli Earnest for writing such a wonderful book! I'm so sad it's over! Buying the second book soon. 10000000000/10 WOULD ABSOLUTELY RECOMMEND!
May 6, 2023
Oh my gosh. This book. 💔
Let’s start with I haven’t read much Sci-fi, but this is the best I’ve ever read. One of my top books so far this year! I can’t get over how wonderfully done this book was. I really have no complaints…well maybe that a certain character dies…but other then that, oh and some other people…but on the happy side, I enjoyed Hallie and Kase so much and made me enjoy the enemies to lovers trope. I laughed, had my heart heart ripped in two, nearly cried, got anxiety, but it was all worth it 🥰
And I love Kase🥰
Let’s start with I haven’t read much Sci-fi, but this is the best I’ve ever read. One of my top books so far this year! I can’t get over how wonderfully done this book was. I really have no complaints…well maybe that a certain character dies…but other then that, oh and some other people…but on the happy side, I enjoyed Hallie and Kase so much and made me enjoy the enemies to lovers trope. I laughed, had my heart heart ripped in two, nearly cried, got anxiety, but it was all worth it 🥰
And I love Kase🥰
March 12, 2024
Well. That was disappointing.
November 10, 2025
I love this book. The adventure, action, slow burn romance, captivating and witty writing style is what did it for me. I’m new to this sci-fi / fantasy genre but I think I’ve discovered a new world of books waiting to be read! If you love Pride and Prejudice, Treasure Planet, Star Wars or The Mummy you will eat this book up! ✨
The characters 💫
Miss Hallie Gwen Walker.
Hallie is such a wonderful character with so much depth from where we see her starting out in university. That library is so cozy I love it! When she goes on the mission her character development is so good! She’s feisty and independent yet she still has her flaws and struggles and that’s what made her feel so real to me! Shes such a unique and strong willed character that you really want to root for and I think she’s probably one of my favorite characters I’ve read in a fantasy book. She’s smart and I loved seeing her step into her role of expertise to help the rest of the crew! The last part of the book really showcased her strengths.
Kase Shackley.
Where do I begin? My boy Kase, he gives Han Solo and I love it! He’s the cocky bad boy, broody and hot headed but underneath it all he has a soft heart! I could really empathize with him and understand where he was coming from with his pent up anger. The trauma and grief he’s dealt with and is dealing with is so real. He has flaws but once he realizes that he can be more than just a screwup he starts to shine. I love him so much! He’s probably one of my fav mmcs that I’ve read as well. His character growth was right up there with Hallie’s and I can’t wait to see what’s next for them both!
Slowest Burn 🔥
Okay Mrs. Earnest I love what you did with the romance it’s the slowest burn I’ve ever read and I ate it up. Every crumb I devoured. I may have cried at a particular scene near the end of the book because of reasons… um Hallie pulled a Rapunzel and Rey iykyk and I was so overcome with tears of joy.
The misunderstanding at the beginning was so perfectly done. They dislike each other so much but yet they’re so similar. I love that. Genius. Every single interaction they had I wanted to soak it in. The way their connection developed felt very organic and natural as they gradually started to see who each other truly was and even something as small as Kase noticing Hallie would sketch when she was nervous. Yeah he definitely hates her. 😏
These two went through it and they’re only a year older than I am and I can’t even imagine having to go through what these two did. The forced proximity also shines in this and the banter would make me laugh out loud. I think I laughed more times than I’d like to admit because the way a character would say something was just so them and fit their personality!
Plot 🌟
I love the world building we have going on from the Victorian/ Gilded age vibes and Star Wars like elements but with ancient and new technology set in a futuristic world! Ohh it’s so good! I think missions and quests are really something that I like reading in fiction… that’s probably why I’m writing a book with some of those elements but anyways!
The crew. I wish I could join their crew but I genuinely felt so immersed like I was right there with them on the Eudora Jayde. The action had me on the edge of my seat my heart was pulsing especially towards the climax so much was happening and it was overwhelming in a good way. The twists and reveals that happen are so crazy and I’m still processing them all.
I recommend this book so much! It’s a delicious story with beautiful writing and crazy adventure that will make you want to read the next one asap! I’m already starting book 2 I couldn’t wait!
I’d say age rating 15/16 and up!
Content Spoilers ‼️
Clean slow burn romance 🫶🏻 Almost kisses, forehead kisses and hugs.
Violence: Sword fights with stone men. Hallie’s fears that Kase might get his head cut off by the stone man. She decides to save Kase and cuts the stone mans head off with a sword, it’s not graphic because the man is stone. Hallie’s hand gets shot and some of her fingers dangle off by the skin and blood is described but her fingers do get healed and stitched back together with magic. Kase is impaled with a sword on his side and his pain is mentioned. Electro pistols and shootings not overly graphic. I’d say the violence was on the level of Star Wars and The Mummy so it didn’t deter my enjoyment of the story. Drinking is mentioned and smoking. No cursing, just made up curses in the world.
The characters 💫
Miss Hallie Gwen Walker.
Hallie is such a wonderful character with so much depth from where we see her starting out in university. That library is so cozy I love it! When she goes on the mission her character development is so good! She’s feisty and independent yet she still has her flaws and struggles and that’s what made her feel so real to me! Shes such a unique and strong willed character that you really want to root for and I think she’s probably one of my favorite characters I’ve read in a fantasy book. She’s smart and I loved seeing her step into her role of expertise to help the rest of the crew! The last part of the book really showcased her strengths.
Kase Shackley.
Where do I begin? My boy Kase, he gives Han Solo and I love it! He’s the cocky bad boy, broody and hot headed but underneath it all he has a soft heart! I could really empathize with him and understand where he was coming from with his pent up anger. The trauma and grief he’s dealt with and is dealing with is so real. He has flaws but once he realizes that he can be more than just a screwup he starts to shine. I love him so much! He’s probably one of my fav mmcs that I’ve read as well. His character growth was right up there with Hallie’s and I can’t wait to see what’s next for them both!
Slowest Burn 🔥
Okay Mrs. Earnest I love what you did with the romance it’s the slowest burn I’ve ever read and I ate it up. Every crumb I devoured. I may have cried at a particular scene near the end of the book because of reasons… um Hallie pulled a Rapunzel and Rey iykyk and I was so overcome with tears of joy.
The misunderstanding at the beginning was so perfectly done. They dislike each other so much but yet they’re so similar. I love that. Genius. Every single interaction they had I wanted to soak it in. The way their connection developed felt very organic and natural as they gradually started to see who each other truly was and even something as small as Kase noticing Hallie would sketch when she was nervous. Yeah he definitely hates her. 😏
These two went through it and they’re only a year older than I am and I can’t even imagine having to go through what these two did. The forced proximity also shines in this and the banter would make me laugh out loud. I think I laughed more times than I’d like to admit because the way a character would say something was just so them and fit their personality!
Plot 🌟
I love the world building we have going on from the Victorian/ Gilded age vibes and Star Wars like elements but with ancient and new technology set in a futuristic world! Ohh it’s so good! I think missions and quests are really something that I like reading in fiction… that’s probably why I’m writing a book with some of those elements but anyways!
The crew. I wish I could join their crew but I genuinely felt so immersed like I was right there with them on the Eudora Jayde. The action had me on the edge of my seat my heart was pulsing especially towards the climax so much was happening and it was overwhelming in a good way. The twists and reveals that happen are so crazy and I’m still processing them all.
I recommend this book so much! It’s a delicious story with beautiful writing and crazy adventure that will make you want to read the next one asap! I’m already starting book 2 I couldn’t wait!
I’d say age rating 15/16 and up!
Content Spoilers ‼️
Clean slow burn romance 🫶🏻 Almost kisses, forehead kisses and hugs.
Violence: Sword fights with stone men. Hallie’s fears that Kase might get his head cut off by the stone man. She decides to save Kase and cuts the stone mans head off with a sword, it’s not graphic because the man is stone. Hallie’s hand gets shot and some of her fingers dangle off by the skin and blood is described but her fingers do get healed and stitched back together with magic. Kase is impaled with a sword on his side and his pain is mentioned. Electro pistols and shootings not overly graphic. I’d say the violence was on the level of Star Wars and The Mummy so it didn’t deter my enjoyment of the story. Drinking is mentioned and smoking. No cursing, just made up curses in the world.
October 30, 2025
Read if you like: Steampunk, quests, NA science fantasy, gaslamp, hate to ???, adventures, action, grumpy x sunshine, dynamic cast of characters, Star Wars but in a historical setting
Reading this book felt nostalgic in the best way, with a ragtag crew going on a dangerous quest. I loved the setting, which is a mix of sci-fi and Victorian-inspired. I thought the “meet-cute” of the two MCs was amusing, as they could not stand each other at first, and the arguing using Shakespeare quotes took me out. 🤣 They were so blind to how much they actually had in common. I truly enjoyed going on the journey with the whole crew as they navigated getting along with each other and braving the dangers. They also faced their inner demons, and boy, do they have their trauma and issues, but it made me understand them better and root for them even more. This book has all the elements of a great story. It’s epic and has action-packed scenes in an intriguing world, and it also has heartfelt moments that make you care about the characters. There were some parts that I felt dragged, which is why I didn’t give it 5 stars. However, I still had a great time reading it. I will be continuing this series.
Spice level: None!
Profanity: None (in-world language)
Reading this book felt nostalgic in the best way, with a ragtag crew going on a dangerous quest. I loved the setting, which is a mix of sci-fi and Victorian-inspired. I thought the “meet-cute” of the two MCs was amusing, as they could not stand each other at first, and the arguing using Shakespeare quotes took me out. 🤣 They were so blind to how much they actually had in common. I truly enjoyed going on the journey with the whole crew as they navigated getting along with each other and braving the dangers. They also faced their inner demons, and boy, do they have their trauma and issues, but it made me understand them better and root for them even more. This book has all the elements of a great story. It’s epic and has action-packed scenes in an intriguing world, and it also has heartfelt moments that make you care about the characters. There were some parts that I felt dragged, which is why I didn’t give it 5 stars. However, I still had a great time reading it. I will be continuing this series.
Spice level: None!
Profanity: None (in-world language)
March 4, 2024
Could not make it past the first quarter of the book. I think the two main leads were supposed to be nuanced and flawed and they would improve (hopefully) as the book went on, but they only came across as the man understandably annoyed all the time because the female lead was so insufferable. NO ONE would realistically put up with her. I’m assuming they fell in love in the end, which would be shocking, because I was personally begging for someone to throw her out of the plane, so I wouldn’t have to hear her self-important, self-centered speeches any longer.
May 7, 2024
(1,5/5 Sterne)
Dieses Buch war ein typischer Coverkauf. Da mache ich keinen Hehl draus. Nach ein paar Reels, die ich dann noch über das Buch gesehen hatte und einem überzeugenden Klappentext war ich sold. Also wurde das Buch bestellt und auf meinen immer wachsenden SuB gelegt. Dass ich es jetzt so schnell gelesen habe, zeugt davon, wie sehr ich mich auf die Geschichte gefreut hatte. Ich dachte echt, da haben wir ein potenzielles Highlight im Regal.
Aber leider war hier genau das Gegenteil der Fall. Bei den ersten paar Kapiteln fand ich den Stil noch experimentell und war gespannt, was da noch kommt. Nach den ersten hundert Seiten habe ich dann aber gemerkt, dass ich immer noch nicht den blassesten Schimmer habe, was eigentlich los ist und mit wem wir es hier genau zu tun haben. Ich bin mir sicher, dass hier eine Menge Wordbuilding erfolgt ist, denn die Autorin führt die Lesenden in raschem Tempo durch die Welt und scheint genau zu wissen, wie welche Aspekte zusammenhängen. Nur leider vergisst sie auf diesem Weg, diese Welt auch richtig zu erklären. Hier gibt es einfach viel zu viele Kulturen, Figuren und Hintergründe, die nie richtig erläutert werden. Und so kann man sich als Zuschauer*in gar nicht richtig auf die Figuren konzentrieren, weil man eigentlich nur am hinterherrennen ist.
Die Geschichte ist aus drei verschiedenen Perspektiven erzählt, wobei ich wirklich nicht verstanden habe, warum wir die dritte noch gebraucht haben. Sie ist plötzlich aufgetaucht, hat wenig Informationen geliefert, die wir vorher noch nicht hatten und war meiner Meinung nach einfach ein unglaublicher Spannungsauflöser. Diese Kapitel haben in der Geschichte eher gestört als interessant zu sein.
Mir war auch der Stil ein wenig zu ungeschliffen. Wortwiederholungen, Tell statt Show und eine Menge seltsamer Dialoge haben es mir schwer gemacht, durch die Seiten zu kommen. Vor allem hat mich das bei den zwischenmenschlichen Beziehungen gestört. Es reicht eben nicht, mir zu erzählen, dass zwei Charaktere die besten Freunde sind. Wenn ich das auf keiner Seite spüre, ist die Geschichte einfach unauthentisch.
Und so witzig ich die Idee des Buchs und die große Problemstellung auch fand, ich habe sie leider erst in den letzten fünfzig Seiten des Buches so wirklich verstanden. Das war einfach alles nicht richtig ausgeführt und hatte ein paar fiese Logiklücken.
Dieses Buch war ein typischer Coverkauf. Da mache ich keinen Hehl draus. Nach ein paar Reels, die ich dann noch über das Buch gesehen hatte und einem überzeugenden Klappentext war ich sold. Also wurde das Buch bestellt und auf meinen immer wachsenden SuB gelegt. Dass ich es jetzt so schnell gelesen habe, zeugt davon, wie sehr ich mich auf die Geschichte gefreut hatte. Ich dachte echt, da haben wir ein potenzielles Highlight im Regal.
Aber leider war hier genau das Gegenteil der Fall. Bei den ersten paar Kapiteln fand ich den Stil noch experimentell und war gespannt, was da noch kommt. Nach den ersten hundert Seiten habe ich dann aber gemerkt, dass ich immer noch nicht den blassesten Schimmer habe, was eigentlich los ist und mit wem wir es hier genau zu tun haben. Ich bin mir sicher, dass hier eine Menge Wordbuilding erfolgt ist, denn die Autorin führt die Lesenden in raschem Tempo durch die Welt und scheint genau zu wissen, wie welche Aspekte zusammenhängen. Nur leider vergisst sie auf diesem Weg, diese Welt auch richtig zu erklären. Hier gibt es einfach viel zu viele Kulturen, Figuren und Hintergründe, die nie richtig erläutert werden. Und so kann man sich als Zuschauer*in gar nicht richtig auf die Figuren konzentrieren, weil man eigentlich nur am hinterherrennen ist.
Die Geschichte ist aus drei verschiedenen Perspektiven erzählt, wobei ich wirklich nicht verstanden habe, warum wir die dritte noch gebraucht haben. Sie ist plötzlich aufgetaucht, hat wenig Informationen geliefert, die wir vorher noch nicht hatten und war meiner Meinung nach einfach ein unglaublicher Spannungsauflöser. Diese Kapitel haben in der Geschichte eher gestört als interessant zu sein.
Mir war auch der Stil ein wenig zu ungeschliffen. Wortwiederholungen, Tell statt Show und eine Menge seltsamer Dialoge haben es mir schwer gemacht, durch die Seiten zu kommen. Vor allem hat mich das bei den zwischenmenschlichen Beziehungen gestört. Es reicht eben nicht, mir zu erzählen, dass zwei Charaktere die besten Freunde sind. Wenn ich das auf keiner Seite spüre, ist die Geschichte einfach unauthentisch.
Und so witzig ich die Idee des Buchs und die große Problemstellung auch fand, ich habe sie leider erst in den letzten fünfzig Seiten des Buches so wirklich verstanden. Das war einfach alles nicht richtig ausgeführt und hatte ein paar fiese Logiklücken.
April 4, 2024
If you found this book through TikTok, then this review is for you, because I was recommended it the same way.
I had such high hopes for this book. As a P&P, the Mummy, and Rogue One fan, I was excited to get my copy and read it. But it was such a letdown that I almost DNR'd it several times.
While the concept itself is fantastic in theory, the author's writing left the characters in a near-constant state of either being angry with each other and arguing or passing out from the excitement of whatever happens next. The plot is the Mummy, but save yourself time and skip through the entire middle third of the book, as roughly the same thing happens several times in a row with the same result and miraculous resolution. The storyline and sequence of events in this book is poorly planned, and the best writing and descriptions are written in the final quarter of the book. Then it ends with one of the characters leaving a useful role for the sake of throwing in one last character temper tantrum.
The author uses the phrase "too-____" to describe things far too many times than should be reasonable, and it became frustrating quickly while also continuously pulling me out of the story. (Example: Zeke's 'too-tall' frame)
This book is lazy writing, minimal to no editing by a professional's standards (as it's 'published' by a company that I'm fairly certain is owned by the author), and far too little world building and character growth to be worth reading, and that's coming from someone who doesn't mind slow storylines or romances. It's mentioned in other reviews and I'll confirm it here, but the author does A LOT of telling, with little to no showing. There are plenty of places in this book where the author could replace what she's written with a well thought out scene ~showing~ us what happens.
With a good editor and some writing changes, I think this book concept has the power to be something good. I think the author's best bet would be to pull her novels, have them edited and finalized by a professional, and change her target audience to attract a YA market. I think it would be more successful and much better received. As it stands, I will not be reading the second book, nor will I be recommending this to anyone else.
I had such high hopes for this book. As a P&P, the Mummy, and Rogue One fan, I was excited to get my copy and read it. But it was such a letdown that I almost DNR'd it several times.
While the concept itself is fantastic in theory, the author's writing left the characters in a near-constant state of either being angry with each other and arguing or passing out from the excitement of whatever happens next. The plot is the Mummy, but save yourself time and skip through the entire middle third of the book, as roughly the same thing happens several times in a row with the same result and miraculous resolution. The storyline and sequence of events in this book is poorly planned, and the best writing and descriptions are written in the final quarter of the book. Then it ends with one of the characters leaving a useful role for the sake of throwing in one last character temper tantrum.
The author uses the phrase "too-____" to describe things far too many times than should be reasonable, and it became frustrating quickly while also continuously pulling me out of the story. (Example: Zeke's 'too-tall' frame)
This book is lazy writing, minimal to no editing by a professional's standards (as it's 'published' by a company that I'm fairly certain is owned by the author), and far too little world building and character growth to be worth reading, and that's coming from someone who doesn't mind slow storylines or romances. It's mentioned in other reviews and I'll confirm it here, but the author does A LOT of telling, with little to no showing. There are plenty of places in this book where the author could replace what she's written with a well thought out scene ~showing~ us what happens.
With a good editor and some writing changes, I think this book concept has the power to be something good. I think the author's best bet would be to pull her novels, have them edited and finalized by a professional, and change her target audience to attract a YA market. I think it would be more successful and much better received. As it stands, I will not be reading the second book, nor will I be recommending this to anyone else.
July 10, 2022
The first 30% of this book was damn near perfection. Delicious character tension was everywhere. Kase and Hallie are both so dramatically feisty I was ready to laugh each time they each opened their mouths.
The rest of the book was still excellent. But it got less and less exciting as it went on. By the end I was giving the book a bit of a side-eye because random things kept happening and jumping out and the romantic tension suddenly just dissipated, felt like a completely different book.And then some completely un-foreshadowed unexplained things happened that further pushed it form a five star to a four star. The romance especially bugged me, it seemed so promising only to be put off to the next book in the end. Still really enjoyed this however, and highly recommend it. I loved both POV’s.
The rest of the book was still excellent. But it got less and less exciting as it went on. By the end I was giving the book a bit of a side-eye because random things kept happening and jumping out and the romantic tension suddenly just dissipated, felt like a completely different book.And then some completely un-foreshadowed unexplained things happened that further pushed it form a five star to a four star. The romance especially bugged me, it seemed so promising only to be put off to the next book in the end. Still really enjoyed this however, and highly recommend it. I loved both POV’s.
February 28, 2024
It was cute but couldn’t really hold my attention
January 31, 2025
In one of those bookish "Yes, no, or maybe" challenges circulating on Instagram Reels, I’d give this book a solid maybe.
From the moment I spotted this book, I was intrigued. I know the old saying: don’t judge a book by its cover, but I’ll admit—I’m one of those people who totally does 🤭🙈. And just LOOK at that cover. Isn’t it gorgeous?
What I heard going into this was that it blends elements of *Rogue One*, *Anastasia*, and a dash of *Indiana Jones* and *The Mummy*. And honestly, I think that’s a pretty fair comparison. The setting is a dystopian, almost galactic world, reminiscent of *Star Wars*. The main characters are thrust into a life-or-death mission to recover an ancient artifact, much like *Indiana Jones*. And the romance? It's got that classic enemies-to-lovers vibe, similar to the dynamic between Anastasia and Dimitri or the banter between Rick and Evie in *The Mummy*.
But there was one thing I didn’t see mentioned in any of the reviews: the immaturity of the characters. 😭
One of my biggest bookish pet peeves is when characters act ridiculously immature, especially when they’re supposed to be adults. The banter between the two love interests was clearly meant to echo the witty back-and-forth of Anastasia and Dimitri, and I get what the author was going for. But instead of playful, sharp exchanges, it often felt childish and petty. Despite both characters being 21, they acted like they were in their teens, which was really disappointing. The romance was one of the things I was most excited about, but the immaturity between the characters kind of tarnished it.
A big part of that immaturity was the constant bickering. I get it—they’re enemies. But rather than arguing about every little thing, the author could have used actual circumstances or encounters to make their animosity feel more earned and believable. Instead, it was just petty squabbles that felt unnecessary.
On the positive side, I did appreciate that the romance was a slow burn. The progression of their relationship felt natural, and I liked that it didn’t rush or feel forced—something that can be a problem in many other books.
Another small irritation was the made-up swear words. There was nothing too offensive—just a lot of “stars this” and “moon that”—but it became redundant and honestly annoying after a while. The use of these faux curses didn’t add anything to the story and just felt like a filler that didn’t contribute to the atmosphere.
Once the love interests started getting along more, their dialogue became much more bearable, and I actually enjoyed the quest they were on. It was fun and adventurous, and by the end, I was more invested in the plot than in the characters' bickering.
Read if you like:
✍🏼 Middle grade/early high school books (think Percy Jackson)
🪐 Science fiction stories
❤️ Slow burn romance
From the moment I spotted this book, I was intrigued. I know the old saying: don’t judge a book by its cover, but I’ll admit—I’m one of those people who totally does 🤭🙈. And just LOOK at that cover. Isn’t it gorgeous?
What I heard going into this was that it blends elements of *Rogue One*, *Anastasia*, and a dash of *Indiana Jones* and *The Mummy*. And honestly, I think that’s a pretty fair comparison. The setting is a dystopian, almost galactic world, reminiscent of *Star Wars*. The main characters are thrust into a life-or-death mission to recover an ancient artifact, much like *Indiana Jones*. And the romance? It's got that classic enemies-to-lovers vibe, similar to the dynamic between Anastasia and Dimitri or the banter between Rick and Evie in *The Mummy*.
But there was one thing I didn’t see mentioned in any of the reviews: the immaturity of the characters. 😭
One of my biggest bookish pet peeves is when characters act ridiculously immature, especially when they’re supposed to be adults. The banter between the two love interests was clearly meant to echo the witty back-and-forth of Anastasia and Dimitri, and I get what the author was going for. But instead of playful, sharp exchanges, it often felt childish and petty. Despite both characters being 21, they acted like they were in their teens, which was really disappointing. The romance was one of the things I was most excited about, but the immaturity between the characters kind of tarnished it.
A big part of that immaturity was the constant bickering. I get it—they’re enemies. But rather than arguing about every little thing, the author could have used actual circumstances or encounters to make their animosity feel more earned and believable. Instead, it was just petty squabbles that felt unnecessary.
On the positive side, I did appreciate that the romance was a slow burn. The progression of their relationship felt natural, and I liked that it didn’t rush or feel forced—something that can be a problem in many other books.
Another small irritation was the made-up swear words. There was nothing too offensive—just a lot of “stars this” and “moon that”—but it became redundant and honestly annoying after a while. The use of these faux curses didn’t add anything to the story and just felt like a filler that didn’t contribute to the atmosphere.
Once the love interests started getting along more, their dialogue became much more bearable, and I actually enjoyed the quest they were on. It was fun and adventurous, and by the end, I was more invested in the plot than in the characters' bickering.
Read if you like:
✍🏼 Middle grade/early high school books (think Percy Jackson)
🪐 Science fiction stories
❤️ Slow burn romance
March 3, 2024
Wow I loved this! It was so much fun, full of action, and the characters and scenes were so vivid!
I went in knowing it would have some Star Wars vibes, and it did! It also reminded me of Firefly, especially when they talk about their ship, which I loved!! (If you've seen the show, you'll understand).
I also very much enjoyed the literary references (Shakespeare & The Odyssey) and loved the concept of the story being set in the future on a planet that humans escaped from.
It also caught me with so many emotions. I didn't expect to cry! I love when books make me cry.
Now I'm ready for the second one because that cliffhanger 😭😭😭
I went in knowing it would have some Star Wars vibes, and it did! It also reminded me of Firefly, especially when they talk about their ship, which I loved!! (If you've seen the show, you'll understand).
I also very much enjoyed the literary references (Shakespeare & The Odyssey) and loved the concept of the story being set in the future on a planet that humans escaped from.
It also caught me with so many emotions. I didn't expect to cry! I love when books make me cry.
Now I'm ready for the second one because that cliffhanger 😭😭😭
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