Smoke In the Mirrors

Slanted London #2

by Jessica Scarlett

Some illusions save us. Others want us dead.

Dorothy St. James has three missions: slip inside the Rook’s circle, recover the stolen enchanted bracelets, and rescue her kidnapped father. But when whispers of a hidden map inside Buckingham Palace surface, everything shifts. Enlisting Ashley Gardner—the brilliant, backstabbing puzzle-solver she can never quite outsmart—might be her only chance of destroying him.

To Dorothy’s annoyance, her dangerous pull toward Ashley only grows, even as fellow Lightfoot agent Nicholas Hart offers a far safer path. Nicholas is steady and dependable, while Ashley is all secrets, sharp edges, and heartbreak waiting to happen.

But Ashley is running out of time. His mutating magic grows more sentient every day, and the final bracelet is the only thing keeping it from consuming him. Desperate, he agrees to help Dorothy hunt the hidden map, even though being near her threatens both his sanity and his survival. And as riddles twist into traps, he begins to fear that their fire may not be real at all—just another illusion his magic wants her to believe.

London’s smoke-choked streets are thick with danger. Where is Dorothy’s father? Who is the Samaritan? Why is the Rook kidnapping innocents? And who can she trust, when she can’t even trust herself?

A thrilling blend of mystery, magic, and simmering romantic tension, Smoke in the Mirrors deepens Jessica Scarlett’s richly imagined Slanted London. With razor-edged stakes and a heroine torn between duty, desire, and danger, this installment delivers atmospheric intrigue and emotional punch in equal measure—proof that in Scarlett’s hands, even the darkest illusions shimmer with heart.

Genres: Fantasy

451 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 24, 2026

About the author

Jessica Scarlett writes amazing books and lame author bios. She hates the pressure of encapsulating everything about herself in a hundred words or less, because she’s too divergent, dynamic, and different for that. And simultaneously not that interesting.

She is the author of the Wycliffe Family Series, Slanted London series, and a couple plays. When not writing, she loves composing music, laughing with her four kids, or doing life on a ranch in Utah with her cinnamon-roll husband.


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thescarlett...

Reviews

[Jessica Scarlett]

✨ Welcome back to London. ✨

[Holly (IG Hollys_Book_Musings) · Rating 5 out of 5]

"You're not a martyr. You're not a demon. You're not invincible. Why can't you see that you're just a man, Ashley? ... A good man."

Smoke in the Mirrors by Jessica Scarlett

Steeped in forbidden magic, dark mystery, societal intrigue, and luscious romance of the angsty closed-door kind, Smoke in the Mirrors is book 2 of the Slanted London series and is one NOT to be missed! And it is available on February 24!

Oh my word, I kid you not that this book will be a top book for me this year! Without a doubt! I think I legitimately crave stories like this: mysterious, gas-lamp fantasy with romance set during Victorian-era London? I just love this gritty story with yearning, angsty love, betrayal, riddles, and the twistiest of plot twists. Seriously, this book series is better than books like Caraval, The Prison Healer, and many of those other popular Booktok books. Jessica writes like a very seasoned writer; her descriptions of scenes and people are like poetry.

I really cannot get enough of this series and I'm so here for it all! I don't want to give any spoilers, but Ashley and Dorothy=so much angst and tension, yearning, longing, ugh I love them so much!
And Emme and Miles are my new favorites! I seriously couldn't get enough of both couples.

This book kept me on the edge of my seat. I loved the mystery and solving riddles. Everything about it!

I HIGHLY recommend this series and this book! My thoughts will be consumed by this one for the foreseeable future. Cue one of the biggest book hangovers ever! Since finishing Invictus by Heather Frost! If you haven't read book 1 yet, you definitely need to read it first! This series is sequential. And Amazing! And an infinite amount of stars! I will never be able to shut up about them. My only regret is that it took me so long to finish it because of how busy life has been and how little energy I've had because I'm pregnant currently. Normally I would have finished this book so fast!

Favorite Parts:
Fake something (spoiler if I tell)
Banter between characters
The Maze
The heist
Dream kiss
Yearning
Moment in abandoned church
Solving riddles
At the lake
On the Train
Plot reveals
Broken Haunted MMC
Witty Intelligent FMCs
Escape
THAT CLIFFHANGER!
The Whole Freakin' Book!

Content Guide:
Language: none
Sexual Content: passionate kissing
Violence/gore: Moderate-suicide and murder (mentioned briefly), animal fights (some gore), sailor gets hand bit off by animal (bloody description), animal is shot to death, boxing, animals attack animals (some gore described), animal is killed (some blood and gore), several instances of gun violence, peril of almost drowning, brutal torture, death and murder, a memory of dead character burning is described (a bit graphic), gore and filth described about the sewers, other gore and violence, death
Substance Use: Mild-side character is addicted to opium, opium dealing
Prejudices: none
Religious Content: none
Other: magic, memory loss and insanity, loss of loved ones, grief

Book Info:
Series: Slanted London book 2
Genre: Historical Romantasy; Victorian era; Gas-lamp
Romance Level: Kisses only
Release Date: February 24, 2026
Publisher: Oliver Heber Books
POV: Multi First Person

Thank you to the Author for the review copy. All thoughts are my own. I've already preordered the paperback as a birthday gift to myself.

[Kristalyne, love.lovely.books · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has left me speechless! This masterpiece of a story took me on the most wild, unpredictable adventure, and I loved every moment. It is absolutely brilliant, captivating, and thrilling! I think some of Ashley’s magic slipped through the pages, because I couldn’t resist this story! I couldn’t put it down!

These characters have my whole heart! I love them!!! One of my favorite parts of this story are the memories and the flashbacks that pierced my heart! Getting to know and understand these characters better was everything!!!! Everything!

This book is incredibly exciting. So much happens, so much is at stake, and the multiple point of views kept the story moving at an enthralling pace. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time, anxious to see what would happen next.

The gorgeous descriptions of mesmerizing scenes, slowly getting answers and pieces to this story’s puzzle, the mystery, the romance, the magic, the race against time, the danger, the tension, it was all so gooood. Add in the push and pull, the dark and the light, the fear and the hope! I couldn’t get enough as I felt completely immersed in this adventure.

I loved visiting so many iconic landmarks in London! This magical world the author created is amazing. I loved all of the twists and turns that had me holding my breath! The shocking revelations had me gasping out loud and questioning everything!!!!!!

This is storytelling at its finest. It grabbed me from the get go, and I never wanted to leave these characters in this heart racing, heart wrenching, heart aching, heart soaring adventure!

This book absolutely blew my mind in the best way possible! An absolute favorite and an absolute must read book and series!!! So sooo excited for book 3!!!!

Favorites:
🪞The banter
🪞Multiple POV
🪞Victorian Gaslamp Fantasy
🪞High stakes
🪞Emme is hilarious
🪞Interconnected storylines
🪞All the emotions
🪞Amazing characters
🪞Thrilling story
🪞Unputdownable
🪞Sleep stealing story
🪞A favorite trope done so well!
🪞And so much more that I can’t wait for you to discover!
.
.
.
Thank you so much to the author and publisher for the arc copy. A positive review was not required but freely given. All opinions are my own.

Content: moderate violence, a little gory at times, danger, opium mentioned, death, death of loved ones, kisses only, tragedy, blood, abuse mentioned

[Virginia Speirs · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know a book is elite when you finish it… and then it refuses to leave your brain? That’s me with these books. I was literally dreaming about the story at night. DREAMING. I’m already impatient for the next book—and the second one isn’t even officially out until Tuesday. 🫠 This is absolutely a “buy the physical copies for the trophy shelf” kind of series. 📚✨

The magic. The mystery. The romance. The balance is chef’s kiss. 👌 I’m usually pretty good at predicting plot twists (it’s a blessing and a curse), and yes—I managed to piece a few things together. But there were still reveals that had my jaw on the floor. And honestly? Figuring things out alongside the story is half the fun. It made the experience even more satisfying. 🤔

The characters are SO well done. You really get to know them, layers and all. Even the complicated ones? I’m still holding out hope. That’s how well they’re written—you care about everyone. ♥️

“Town of Shadows” sets such a strong foundation for the series, and so many details carry straight into “Smoke in the Mirrors”. This is absolutely not a “read out of order” situation. Read them in order. Trust me. And if it’s been a minute since book one, do yourself a favor and skim or reread before diving into book two. You’ll thank yourself.

“Smoke in the Mirrors” reveals A LOT. Buckle up. Maybe take notes. Future-you will be grateful when book three drops. 👀

Fun fact: my 8-year-old insisted I read these out loud to her while I was reading them myself. I happily obliged… until things got a little too intense. 😅 I stopped, but she now demands full plot updates. So if you know me in real life—do not ask her about this series. She will absolutely spoil it.

I know this review is vague, but that’s on purpose. I want you to experience the magic of discovering it all on your own. Huge thank you to Jessica Scarlett for choosing me as an ARC reader for this incredible book—it was exactly the motivation I needed.

Don’t be like me and wait. Start this series now. 🙌

[Vanessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

DID I LOVE IT? YES! My brain will be thinking about this book on repeat for the next several days!

I have been anxiously awaiting the second book in this series after devouring Town of Shadows. I had SO many questions after the first book, and I was worried coming into this one because i didn't think we would get answers for most of them. I am happy to say I was wrong. Jessica does a fantastic job of giving us little bits and pieces of info to connect everything. Although I definitely still have many questions and am anxious to know what happens next, I feel like the history of the magic and character backgrounds were addressed SO well in this installment.

As far as characters go, I am a little obsessed. All of the main characters from the first book have a lot of growth and depth while still maintaining the traits I loved so much from the first book. Dorothy is such a strong FMC. Although she is trying to recover from events in Town of Shadows, she is still quick-witted and the genius we know. What can I say about Ashley? I love his character so much and am thrilled we got to learn more about his past. There are moments I want to slap him, and moments I want to give him a big hug. I was SO EXCITED to get more POVs from Miles and Emmeline. Their chemistry grew so much in this book, and I couldn't get enough of them. Emmeline is my favorite character. She's that spunky, outspoken, and essential side character that is easy to love. If anything truly disastrous happens to her, I will RIOT. Though, I could say the same thing about any of these characters.

The romance was still front and center in this book, but it never felt like it was overshadowing the plot. You can look forward to all the yearning, swoony moments, and angst from the first book with heightened stakes. I was on the edge of my seat, especially in the last half of the book. SO MUCH HAPPENS.


As a side note, the added love interest for Dorothy added a healthy boost of jealousy and pining. We got to see Ashley challenged, which was a lot of fun to read.


Some of my favorite scenes were in the church. I knew this book would be an emotional roller coaster, and those scenes in the church delivered the emotional gut punch I was expecting. SO GOOD.

I really really loved this book! It's definitely my favorite read of 2026 so far! I was so excited to receive an ARC. If it wasn't for work and other responsibilities, I would have easily finished Smoke In the Mirrors in one sitting. LOVED IT!!

[jennie.and.books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ooooh! THIS BOOK IS A WILD RIDE!

A book of not knowing which side is the good side and which side is the bad side, and two people who don't trust each other, but can't stop the feelings they have.

I loved all the points of view, getting unique perspectives to each situation!

[Ashley (books.uncharted) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series for the twists and turns, and absolute thrill that it is!

It's written in a way that keeps me guessing and collecting the puzzle pieces right along with the characters (who have amazing personalities, by the way!), and I LOVE it.

The romance elements are pretty phenomenal too. ;) BUT if you think you're just getting a romance with this story, you're actually getting so much more!

A series all its own, for those that love historical London, fantasy stories, or sweet romance.

[Melynne (mels_booknook) · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an absolute ride!!! I love these characters so much. And that twist!! Ah. This book was everything I wanted it to be. I can’t wait for the conclusion!

[Ashlynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok so I fear I will have a book hangover from this book for a long time and WHY isn’t the third book out yet so I can read it??

This book was SO GOOD. Easily one of the best books I’ve read recently. I am so thankful I received an ARC of it!

Jessica Scarlett did such a great job with character development in this book, and she really allowed us to see all four main characters (Ashley, Miles, Dorothy, and Emme) at a much deeper level. If book one gave us the actions of the main characters, this book (book 2) gave us the WHY.

The character development of Ashley alone is incredible. The author really keeps us on our toes the entire book about his motivations and backstory, and without spoiling too much, I’ll just say that the way she slowly reveals to us as readers more about Ashley is amazing. His character is so much more than what we saw on the surface in book 1, and I loved every second of getting to know the real Ashley.

Dorothy is still such a compelling FMC. Her intelligence and wittiness makes her easy to root for, and I have so much empathy for her character, despite her taking some actions that made me want to shake her so she could see the truth!

Miles and Emmeline are everything. Their romance is so precious, and every chapter with Miles’ point of view made me want to give him a hug. I love them so so much.

In this book, many of our characters make difficult choices that kinda make you go “why would you do that??” But the author did a great job of giving valid motivations behind each character’s actions. She doesn’t write plot twists just for the sake of plot twists. Each plot twist was clearly well thought out and made the story so exciting.

I literally devoured this book in less than two days.
If Caravel was one of my favorite books, I might have to say that though this series reminds me of it, this one is even better.

I can’t recommend this book enough. You won’t regret getting invested in this series.

I need book 3 now!!

[Isabella Murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't think. I can't sleep. I can't breathe. This book stole every ounce of oxygen from my lungs. I'm obsessed. The characters, the plot, the mystery, the drama, the agony, the yearning, ALL OF IT. Perfection. It absorbed me body and soul. This book invoked so many visceral feelings, I am left empty, pining for more. NEEDING more. The wait for book 3 is going to be painful agony. The plot twists within this book were earth shattering. The character development was world altering. It was all wonderful. I can't think of words glorious enough to explain this book. I've been anxiously waiting for this book since book 1 came out and this did not disappoint. I finally got answers to so many questions, but I have so many more!

Dorothy is an amazing FMC. Ashley is devastating in the best ways. Miles totally has my heart. Emmeline is hilarious. I love them all. Their stories have captured my heart. I can't wait to see what happens next.

All drama aside, Jessica Scarlett is a master storyteller. She knows how to create a story that draws her readers in. She doesn't just write a book, she creates an experience. I loved every minute of it. I loved experiencing every emotion alongside her characters. It's books like these that remind me why I love to read. It is a beautiful feeling to step out of my life and traverse a world created by someone else.

Would I recommend this book?
ABSOLUTELY 100%

[Marissa | storiesinthemeadow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Content: no language, kissing only, some violence and torture (not gory)

Genre/Tropes: Historical Fantasy Romance (set in Victorian England) with a dash of mystery thrown in. Solving puzzles, hidden identities, multiple POV, book 2 in series

My thoughts:
Oh my word! What a fantastic book 2 to this series. It, like book 1, is full of twists and turns. There’s intrigue, mutating magic, and a love story where both people are actively trying NOT to love the other person (because of *spoilers*). There’s also a second romance in this book with Miles and Emme, and I loved their scenes as well.

Once I got into the second half of the book, I finished it the same night (so I am incredibly grateful that I started early enough in the evening to finish at a reasonable hour!).

There are less riddles/puzzles than in book 1, but there are still some mysteries to be solved and clues to unravel.

Some of the twists I predicted early on, but for others I was thoroughly misdirected and only caught my mistake just before the characters (which is when, as a writer, you want the reader to piece it all together).

I do have a few nit-picky complaints, but overall I loved this book and would highly recommend this series.

[Reagan Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full review coming soon but GUYYYYYS


this book does not have second book syndrome bc this book was as good, if not better than book one.

I was screaming

Swooning

CLUTCHING MY PEARLS

And by the end?

Sobbing

Tears

Falling

Down

My

Cheeks

Making lake eerie on my kindle crying

Cool? Okay buy this book

[Tanvi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great Book 2! I have been waiting to read more about this series ever since I read book 1, and the book lived up to my expectations.

The book is well written, full of adventures and twists and I am in awe at how well all the POVs have been handled.

Looking forward to the next book.

[Jeanine Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

THIS BOOK!

It stole my sleep.
It stole my breath.
It stole my heart.
And it nearly stole my sanity!

I know this is just book 2, and book 3 is somewhere out in the future, but I’m thinking this may be my favorite fantasy series of all time. Town of Shadows was my number one read in 2025. Smoke in the Mirrors may well be my top read of 2026.

From the open text of the author’s dedication, I knew this book was going to be everything I hoped it would be. The story hits the ground running and never lets up. The flow, the multiple povs, the maddening romance(s) that are brewing and/or being restrained. With shocking revelations, jaw-dropping betrayals, and the angstiest angst that ever angsted, my heart was in my throat and my bookish soul in the most divine state of euphoria.

Gasps, sighs, smiles, cheering, swooning, and aching. I felt it all.

Friends do not sleep on this trilogy. It’s entertaining, exhilarating, and enthralling. Snarky and sultry. Fresh and fascinating. Tortuous and tantalizing. It’s all the adjectives!

Thank you NetGalley and Oliver Heber Books for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.

[Kapri Austin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I honestly don't even know where to start with this review! I love reading and I read all the time, but there are very few books that I have read that have affected me as much as SITM! Oh my gosh it was so good! It was the perfect sequel to Town of Shadows! It was an emotional roller coaster of a day seeing as I got the book in the morning and finished it that night. I swear I was laughing and feeling all the feels and then nearly crying the next moment. Often times I feel like a book has some slow parts that get drawn out and are long and boring, but not this book! I couldn't put it down all day! The pace for SITM was extremely well done and this was not like other sequels I've read where they feel more of connecter between books one and three, instead it was a well written story with a great plot and characters with so much depth that you seriously can't get enough of them.

I don't really want to spoil anything, but let me just tell you Ashley is my absolute favorite! One of the best MMC out there. He's not perfect but the way he tries to do the right thing and the way he cares for Dorothy is just too good ❤️ I feel like we were finally able to uncover and peel back the layers of Ashley's soul and figure out who he is and what made him, him. Miles is another favorite of mine and I also felt like we got to know him better despite his lack of speech;) His loyalty to Ashley is one of the sweetest and things and seriously I just need a Miles in my life. SITM gave me the much needed answers that I needed after reading Town of Shadows, but it also left me wanting for more! My only problem right now is idk how long it will be till I get to read the third book and idk if I can wait that long 😭

SITM has it all! Suspense, depth, plot building, multiple pov, magic, science, relatable characters, intrigue, and of course romance!

Jessica Scarlett is a phenomenal writer and truly one of my favorites now! She hasn't written a book that I don't like, and not only that, all of her books are among my favorites! This book was closed door with no spice which I honestly think is a testament to Jessica Scarlett's ability as a writer to write a romance that has you smiling like a dork and needing more without having to add all the smut in to keep readers engaged. The romance in this book did not have a weird high-school feel to it like so many others, but it was tender and cute, painful yet deep, witty and humorous, but at the same time playful and passionate. It was the type of romance that made you wish you had that same one in your own life lol 😆

After reading this book my family probably thought I was insane bc I was smiling like an idiot almost the whole time till I nearly started crying at the end 🤪

This book was incredible and definitely one worth reading despite its emotional ending. It was one of my favorites for sure and I seriously cannot wait for book three! Thank you Jessica for creating such a masterpiece of a book and for giving us a glimpse into the slanted London world and story!!

[Kacey Jenson · Rating 5 out of 5]

«SMOKE IN THE MIRRORS»

~The second book in the Slanted London Series~

Yet again Jessica has blown me away with her writing skill. THE ANGST. THE YEARNING. oh my gosh the yearning. I wouldn't not recommend this as a stand alone. but if you are looking for a book that's full of the great three. Yearning, Thrill, and Plot Twists. With this book it delved deeper into Miles and Emmelines story and i am in love with them. They are so cute with how much he hates her. But i don't love them more than my mans Ashley. i'm sorry but he is the KING. this man. i will be to thinking of him every day!!!


🪞Adventure
🪞Gaslamp-Fantasy
🪞Yearning
🪞Angst
🪞Closed Door- just very intense kisses!
🪞Backstabbinggggg


Here’s the Blurb if you want to read it!

Some illusions save us. Others want us dead.


Dorothy St. James has three missions: slip inside the Rook's circle, recover the stolen enchanted bracelets, and rescue her kidnapped father. But when whispers of a hidden map inside Buckingham Palace surface, everything shifts. Enlisting Ashley Gardner-the brilliant, backstabbing puzzle-solver she can never quite outsmart—might be her only chance of destroying him.
To Dorothy's annoyance, her dangerous pull toward Ashley only grows, even as fellow Lightfoot agent Nicholas Hart offers a far safer path. Nicholas is steady and dependable, while Ashley is all secrets, sharp edges, and heartbreak waiting to happen.

But Ashley is running out of time. His mutating magic grows more sentient every day, and the final bracelet is the only thing keeping it from consuming him.
Desperate, he agrees to help Dorothy hunt the hidden map, even though being near her threatens both his sanity and his survival. And as riddles twist into traps, he begins to fear that their fire may not be real at all just another illusion his magic wants her to believe.
London's smoke-choked streets are thick with danger.
Where is Dorothy's father? Who is the Samaritan?
Why is the Rook kidnapping innocents? And who can Dorothy trust, when she can't even trust herself!

[Ashley Plichta · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book and will be rereading it at least a couple of times – as I did Town of Shadows – while impatiently awaiting the release of Book 3.

The overall backdrop and plot of this series feel like a Holmes-era mystery combined with the romantic-tension and fantasy elements of Crown of Thorns & Roses (except a PG version, because Scarlett keeps it clean).

The 6-person POV provided for deep character development and sparked a desire to solve the puzzles along with the characters. There was an intrigue from clues that could only be presented through different POV’s that fully immersed me in this world. There was so much to take in and so many feelings.

This book is NOT a stand-alone. You need to read Town of Shadows first, and you will be waiting for full resolution when Book 3 comes out! That said, Scarlett did a beautiful job of building out multiple plot lines from Town of Shadows in this book and giving us just enough resolution to find a happy balance between “How dare you leave me in this unresolved place?” and “I am so excited for Book 3!” Moreover, because of her stellar plot and character development, re-reading Books 1 and 2 to fully digest the delightful details would be something I would wish to do anyways, even if we already had Book 3.

Scarlett’s Wycliffe series are in my comfort books: the ones I re-read when I just want to check out into a happy romance after a long week. I was nervouxcited when she decided to jump into a new genre, because she already did that genre so well. After Book 2 of the Slanted series, I am convinced that Gaslight Fantasy is the genre Jessica Scarlett was meant to write. Book 3, first! But then, more Gaslight Fantasy, Ms. Scarlett, please and thank you!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Venus | Bookstagram · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was just as wonderfully complex as the first one, but this time with much more intense emotions.
Longing and anguish drip from the pages!
If you read Town of Shadows, you might think you know what to expect from this one, but NO.
The revelations, riddles, betrayals, and mysteries in this book will leave you speechless.
I don't want to say too much in case you haven't read the first book, but I will say that if you loved Ashley before, now you will adore him.
My heart breaks for Dorothy and her innocence.
And Miles with Emmeline, I could watch them interact (or not, in Miles' case) all day! They're just fantastic together.
This story is deep, with a strong aspect of self-discovery and sacrifice for all of its main characters...
Basically, all of this means that I cried a lot reading this book, and of course I recommend it with a hundred stars!
The third book can't come soon enough.

Dorothy St. James is willing to do anything to rescue her father and take revenge on the man who stole her heart.
Now with her new goals and more powerful magic, she is determined to be the victor this time.
Ashley Gardner is desperate; the magic that consumes him is about to destroy him and cause catastrophic results.
He has already risked everything, but working alongside Dorothy, the girl he cannot forget, is proving to be an even more dangerous gamble for both of them.
Once again in action, Dorothy and Ashley must face dangers, riddles, mysteries, and the incendiary attraction between them.
But there are many shadows watching, secret societies, and people trying to obtain powerful magic that could destroy everything.

You will find:
✨ Multiple POVs
✨ Magic and mysteries
✨ Forced proximity
✨ Slow slow burn
✨ Adventures and dangers
✨ Secret societies
✨ Who to trust?
✨ Broken hearts and anguish
✨ That ending...

👉🏻 Releasing on February 24
Thanks to the author for the copy.
All opinions are my own.

⚠️ Content warning: Mild violence, torture (not described), references to kidnappings, deaths. Romance limited to passionate kissing.

💐 For aesthetic reviews with edits, quotes and more, follow me on Instagram: @sina.venus.booklover

[Leigh | The Naptime Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Because what would I say if I approached her? That everything was my fault? That I needed her more than I needed blood in my veins? That only by being worthy of her lonely heart could I ever heal my own?”

Goodness, Jessica has done it again! Smoke in the Mirrors is a complex, emotional, and beautifully written story. It’s deep and cerebral and full of action and tension making you constantly think and question who to trust and what to believe. I really love Jessica’s writing style – the descriptions and world building, all the intricate details, the dry wit (shoutout to Emme, especially!), the puzzles, and the depth of emotions are all so good! This is a story where every detail seems to matter and remembering connections is a must. It’s dark and gritty but also romantic with glimpses of hope. The plot twists kept me guessing and left me speechless!

Smoke in the Mirrors picks up a few weeks after the ending of Town of Shadows and jumps back into the action almost immediately. It’s told through multiple points of view and follows a couple of different storylines. There’s more emphasis on the history of magic in this book compared to the first. It’s complex with layers upon layers of information and secrets. It ends on another cliffhanger – you’ve been warned!

I absolutely recommend this series! It is immersive and unique, and I have really enjoyed reading it!

Content: no-spice/kisses-only romance (some thoughts of desire); violence, blood, and perilous situations (moderately described); loss, betrayal, and grief; magic that is a born-with gift

I received an advanced digital copy of this book from the author and was under no obligation to post a review.

[Bia | aworldofinkandpaper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Smoke in the Mirrors – Book Review
⭐ 5/5
WHAT. A. GREAT. BOOK.
Honestly, sometimes I miss the way the books I read as a teenager made me feel completely immersed in the story, sitting up in anticipation, gasping at every revelation, and eagerly waiting to see what would happen next.
That’s exactly how this book made me feel.
In this second installment of the Slanted London series, we pick up almost right where the first book left off. So if you haven’t read Town of Shadows yet, go do that. Like, right now.
In Smoke in the Mirrors, we get much more backstory on the characters, especially Ashley, and we start to understand many of the events from the first book. We also see more of other characters, like Miles and Emmeline, and the development of their stories. Several side characters also take on more prominent and expressive roles in the narrative.
I love how Ashley and Dorothy are different yet so alike at the same time: their minds work in similar ways, and their intelligence draws them toward each other. The romance between them becomes even more complicated, but their feelings continue to grow despite all odds.
Just like in book one, this story is full of surprises that kept me completely invested. The writing is excellent, and you really have to pay attention while reading because things that happen in the middle of the story definitely become important later on.

I truly hope this series becomes more widely known and gets the recognition it deserves, because it absolutely has the potential to become a huge bestseller.

I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Charissa James · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not usually the case for a book two in a trilogy but this book was just as amazing as, if not more amazing than, the first. The story continues right where book one leaves off, so you definitely need to read that one first. And don't leave too much time in between reading these books because LOTS of details carry over.
Upon opening the pages of this book, I was immediately swept away to the mysterious streets of Victorian London. The setting was fantastically vivid. So vivid that I found myself living there in my mind whenever I had to put the book down, and for several days after finishing.
I liked that some questions were answered and some secrets revealed, and that new questions and secrets came up. This kept me from getting bored. In fact, I was so glued to that pages that I hardly touched another book while I was reading this one. I usually have four or five going at the same time, so that's saying something!
I really enjoyed getting to see Miles' and Emme's relationship develop a little more. Dorothy's and Ashley's romance took a bit of a backward step (as was expected after the last events in book one), so I was glad there was another going on. I cannot wait to see how both couples finally resolve their issues and get their happy endings.
Jessica Scarlett has written another brilliant book and I highly recommend all readers of clean romance, mystery, or fantasy check it out!

Thanks to the author and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

[Beatriz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dorothy St. James is in full triple-mission chaos: infiltrate the Rook’s circle, recover the stolen enchanted bracelets, and save her kidnapped father. Simple… until rumors of a hidden map in Buckingham Palace flip everything upside down. And the only person who might help? Ashley Gardner—brilliant, infuriating, morally grey, and impossible for her to outplay.
The worst part: her pull toward Ashley is getting stronger, even with Nicholas Hart (steady, safe, total green flag) right there. Nicholas is the easy choice. Ashley is the ruin-your-life-but-you’ll-still-look-back choice.
And Ashley’s running out of time—his magic is mutating, and the final bracelet is the only thing keeping it from consuming him. So they chase the map through riddles and traps across a smoke-choked London… where everyone has secrets, and Dorothy can’t even trust her own instincts.

I really enjoyed this book! It’s fast-paced, full of mystery, and the London setting feels dark and exciting. The missions, the enchanted bracelets, and the Buckingham Palace clues kept me turning pages.
Dorothy is strong and determined, and Ashley is smart, dangerous, and hard to trust—which makes their tension so good. I also liked Nicholas as the safer option, but Ashley and Dorothy clearly have that “can’t stay away” vibe.
The twists, riddles, and secrets kept me guessing the whole time. Well done! @thescarlettwriter. Now waiting for the 3rd book!

[Alyssa · Rating 4 out of 5]

"And Ashley’s hands weren’t just coated with mutated magic. They were dripping."

This book, oh my, I almost don't even know where to start!!! This book pulls you right in, keeps you guessing, and needing to know more! It definitely gave me some sleepless nights from both staying up late reading and from laying in bed trying to figure out all the pieces and guess what will happen next. Jessica Scarlett really did a great job on writing this story and keeping the reader on the edge of their seat.

I really love all these characters! It was great to see more of Dorothy and Ashley even though there were moments I wanted to reach into the book and shake them. They are amazing, smart, and complex characters who feel so real when I read about them. And you just can't not love Ashley!
Emmeline and Miles together kept me smiling, it was so fun to see how the two of them interacted. They both really grew on me in this book!
The story has more puzzles, magic, fake finances, sneaking around the palace, secret societies, exciting escapes, plans that are always one step ahead, funny banter dialogue, some answers to questions from the first book, and also new dangers!
I can't wait to read the last book!

🔎This series does need to be read in order.
🔎Content wise this book felt a little more violent to me than the first- there is torture (not as descriptive as it could be but still hard to read about), description of a young child seeing their mother killed, physical fighting, and a hand that gets smashed and dismembered.
🔎Language is clean expect for the word "bloody" which is a swear word in England.

[Melissa J. Dembowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book one in the Slanted London series caught my attention, book two caught my emotions and took them on a roller coaster ride that had me holding my breath and gasping at every turn.

Smoke in the Mirrors was both a surprise and delight to read. Where book one introduced us to each character and laid the ground work for this series, book two brought depth, nuance, and complexity to those characters and the story line as a whole.

Every thread woven into Smoke in the Mirrors pulled me in one direction and then in another as it dove deeper into the back stories of these characters who beg for you to stay invested in them and the directions they are headed.
As I read the last line of the book I found myself once again wishing I had the next one queued up. I am already anticipating book three!

Jessica Scarlett is not only wildly creative in her writing capability, but she is also gifted in being able to tell her stories in a way that makes you feel deeply and care about the characters and the narrative she is weaving.

If you love amazing books, ones that stay with you long after you read them and have you going back to them again and again because they are just that good, then The Slanted London series is for you.
If you haven’t read book one, Town of Shadows, do it now. If you have, then don’t walk, but run and grab your copy of book two, Smoke in the Mirrors. I have no doubt you will love them just as much as I do!

[Keira Shantry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me just start with ahhhhhhh! I was so conflicted while reading this book. On the one hand I could not put it down because I had to find out what would happen next but on the other I was so scared for the inevitable twists and turns I knew were in store that I turned every page with a little trepidation. Jessica has made such an incredible world with a creative magic system and such outstanding characters. It was amazing to see more of Miles and Emmeline in this book. Book 2 really let's us see how the characters are growing and it was definitely neat to see Dorothy and Ashley's roles reversed as she tries to outsmart him. I was a little sad that we did not get to see as much clue hunting but I think what Jessica has done is very important because it shows the evolution of their story and how things are very quickly becoming less of a game. She really ramps up the stakes in this book and I for one cannot wait for book three and to see what she has in store for the incredible cast of characters. Jessica has such a talent for constantly surpassing your expectations just when you think you've figured it all out she manages to turn things around so there's no way for you to see how it will all play out in the end.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Alexis (IG: lexislimitlesslibrary) Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

“𝐸𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓎𝑜𝓃𝑒 𝒾𝓈 𝓌𝑜𝓇𝓉𝒽 𝓈𝒶𝓋𝒾𝓃𝑔.”

✨Consider me even more obsessed!✨

This sequel took the incredible world-building from Book 1 and ran with it, delivering twists I never saw coming.

Jessica delivers such vivid writing that creates a beautiful world for the reader to be pulled into. I am speechless, mind-blown, and still trying to figure out what to say without giving too much away…. Smoke in the Mirrors takes us for even more of a high-stake journey filled with genuine surprises and intense yearning. It’s a fast-paced, multiple POV mystery, that balances suspense with a heartfelt 'protect her at all costs' dynamic. I devoured this book in one day and I cannot wait for the third book.

I definitely recommend this book for anyone who loves high-stakes, angst, heart-pounding twists, high tension, no spice, magic, with puzzles and riddles that will leave you guessing!! You NEED this on your TBR immediately. Start with Town of Shadows and prepare to lose sleep, because you won't be able to put this series down!

‘𝐿𝑒𝓉 𝓂𝑒 𝓉𝑒𝓁𝓁 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓎 𝓉𝓇𝓊𝓉𝒽, 𝓁𝑒𝓉 𝓂𝑒 𝑔𝒾𝓋𝑒 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓎 𝓅𝒾𝑒𝒸𝑒. 𝐼 𝒹𝑜𝓃’𝓉 𝓌𝒶𝓃𝓉 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝓂𝑜𝓂𝑒𝓃𝓉. 𝐼 𝓌𝒶𝓃𝓉 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝒻𝑜𝓇𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇, 𝒟𝑜𝓇𝑜𝓉𝒽𝓎…
𝐹𝑜𝓇𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇.’

Thank you to the author for my advanced ebook copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Content: closed door, magic, some violence, no language.

[Rachel Schmucker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Town of Shadows, book # 1 in this trilogy, was in my top five reads of 2025. I was counting down the days until SITM - and I devoured it on the day I received my copy!

SITM completely delivered - tension, angst, heartbreak, shock, dismay - I felt all the emotions. I won’t give any specific spoilers, but my man Ashley got raked through the coals in this one and it was seriously heartbreaking. I loved how we got to see so much more of Ashley’s backstory and what has shaped him into who he is now. Miles is the best supporting character and I loved the exchanges between him and Emme. Dorothy…I just can’t with her right now!

Jessica is one of my favorite authors. She writes tension, banter, and yearning like none other. Her books are clean, which I so appreciate it. She isn’t afraid to write hard stories for her characters or have them take a path you wish they wouldn’t. This Slanted London series has shown her ability to world build and create crazy plot twists and mysteries, all while still having all the yearning and tension you expect from her. I cannot wait until book 3.

[Skye · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC for this book, and I could not have been luckier!

With this sequel, Jessica Scarlett somehow managed to write a book that is both thrilling and cozy, a combination I’ve honestly never encountered before. As a reader who’s very much here for the vibes, this was such an exciting experience for me. While I loved Town of Shadows, it didn’t quite hit this feeling to the same extent; this sequel really leans into that atmosphere in the best way. The first book now feels like the perfect stepping stone, leading into what I think is a truly amazing follow-up.

I have to fangirl for a moment over the addition of the Miles and Emmeline chapters, I loved getting more time in their heads. Those chapters added so much depth and made the story even more immersive. I was genuinely excited every time one of their names popped up. Their story is so fun and quirky, it gives Enola Holmes, with Miles being a slightly more grumpy, but loyal, male lead. And while I understand the appeal of Ashley, Miles is for me.

I seriously cannot wait for everyone else to get to read this exciting, mysterious, and romantic story!

[Kaitlin Herrington · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Slanted London series deserves ALL THE HYPE!! I read over 200 books in the last year, and when others ask what I recommend I always start with Town Of Shadows. These 2 books are completely captivating, from the very beginning. I found myself trying to piece together puzzles, only to gasp out loud when I would find out the truth. As soon as I could get my hands on Smoke in The Mirror, I DEVOURED it. I literally couldn’t put it down. It’s 450 pages, and I read it in a day. At 1 in the morning, I was going to take a break and sleep, but something completely mind-blowing happened in chapter 48 (DON’T CHEAT AND PEEK AHEAD, YOU’LL MISS OUT) and I couldn’t find sleep. I picked the book back up and finished it at 5 am. No regrets. It was worth it!

The main characters are so real and complex. I enjoyed getting to know Miles and Emme better in the sequel, and was glad that the plot connected to the first book, but nothing felt overdone. The pacing is quick without losing the magic and charm. Do yourself a favor and put this at the top of your list of books to read, and resist the urge to look at spoilers because the surprises are all worth the ride!

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Smoke in the Mirrors, book 2 in the Slanted London series, was definitely worth the wait. It has a slower pace than Town of Shadows but didn’t lack in drawing me into the story and keeping my attention. If not for being a mom of busy littles, I would have had it devoured in one night.

I loved how the characters got more in depth. I felt the turmoil and emotions of each one. I also loved that with the slower pace and focus on building the connection to the characters, I still was getting puzzle pieces to try to piece together. Jessica Scarlett does such an amazing job at sprinkling little hints and foreshadowing throughout her writing.

Of course, I have to mention the clean romance sprinkled throughout. These scenes have the same effect as in book 1, swooning and build up with a little banter mixed in.

I’m already ready for a reread to catch the things I know I missed. Now to wait, impatiently, for book 3.