What do you think?
Rate this book
Panopolis #1
Where There's Smoke
Panopolis is a rough place to be an average Joe. I came here looking for adventure and excitement, but nobody cares about one more normal guy in a city filled with super-powered heroes. The closest I’ve come to glory is working in a bank that villains often rob.
But then I maybe accidentally-on-purpose helped a villain escape the hero who was trying to save the day. Imagine my shock when, a week later, that villain asked me out for coffee. One date turned into more, and now I’m head over heels in love with Raul.
Falling in love with the guy dubbed the Mad Bombardier isn’t without its downsides, though. I’ve had to deal with near-death encounters with other villains, awkwardly flirtatious heroes who won’t take no for an answer, and a lover I’m not sure I can trust. It’s getting to the point where I know I’ll have to make a choice: side with the heroes, or stand fast by my villain.
Either way, I think my days as a normal guy are over.
But then I maybe accidentally-on-purpose helped a villain escape the hero who was trying to save the day. Imagine my shock when, a week later, that villain asked me out for coffee. One date turned into more, and now I’m head over heels in love with Raul.
Falling in love with the guy dubbed the Mad Bombardier isn’t without its downsides, though. I’ve had to deal with near-death encounters with other villains, awkwardly flirtatious heroes who won’t take no for an answer, and a lover I’m not sure I can trust. It’s getting to the point where I know I’ll have to make a choice: side with the heroes, or stand fast by my villain.
Either way, I think my days as a normal guy are over.
90 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 25, 2015
36 people are currently reading
674 people want to read
About the author
Cari Z.
136 books539 followersCari Z. is a Colorado girl who loves snow and sunshine. She has a wonderful relationship with her husband, a complex relationship with the characters in her head and a sadomasochistic relationship with her exercise routine. She feels like Halloween should happen every month, which is why you get this picture of her, and hopes that you enjoy reading what she's put out there as much as she enjoyed writing it in the first place.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
April 24, 2017
*3.5 stars*
What if instead of rooting for the heroes, you cheered for the villains. What if you fell in love with one?
Unlike a lot of readers, I'm not a comic book fan. I have an embarrassingly small knowledge base about superheros and graphic novels, and unless it is common superhero knowledge at a Kindergarten level, I don't know about it.
Honestly, I shouldn't have liked this story... but I did.
No sex, one POV, very little build-up between the two MCs getting together, a very short novella, and a cliffhanger ending. AND I LIKED IT! Color me surprised.
Part of that had to do with another great narration from Nick J Russo, who always does a stellar job. Part of it had to do with the fun, out-of-the-box plotline, which kept me engaged the entire time. And the other part? Just an X-factor, I think (does that sound superhero-y? I'm trying!).
Though the romance wasn't center-stage, I left the book wanting more, which is always a good thing. I can't wait to see where this story leads me.
To infinity and beyond!
Wait... nope, Toy Story. Just goes to show you that you don't have to be a superhero fan to enjoy this one!
*Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
July 8, 2015
This is the author's dedication at the beginning of the book:
I've always liked the villains more. In fact, the only superhero I've ever liked is Captain America, and that probably has more to do with Chris Evans hot bod' than it does with Captain America as a character. So this book was right up my alley, and it totally delivered.
Panopolis is a city of heroes and villains. The politicians are dirty, and in the pockets of various pharmaceutical companies which have a hand in creating the heroes and villains. The city is barely holding itself together. This is the scenario in which our MC, Edward Dinges, finds himself. Edward tries to keep his head low, but one day he attracts the attention of Raul Tremblay, better known as the Mad Bombardier.
I really liked the premise of how Edward and Raul meet. This isn't a story of a duped innocent and a conniving villain. Edward knows exactly what he's getting himself in to when he decides to date Raul. That's not to say that either of these characters don't have a conscience, but there is a lot of moral ambiguity. My only complaint would be that after the initial date, there's a big gap that's filled in with telling rather than showing. A few extra pages to cement the beginning of the relationship would have been nice.
Cari Z. wrote Raul in a way that makes it clear that he's a villain, but he's not unlikable. I think readers looking for a hardcore villain with no remorse will be a bit disappointed. Raul does have a conscience, and he tries to mitigate the fallout of his actions, though I wouldn't call him an anti-villain. He's just very selective in who he thinks deserves his consideration. But the story is still gritty and it's obvious that Edward is just barely skirting the straight and narrow.
I really enjoyed this novella from Cari Z. There's action and romance, and just a fun story. I'd definitely recommend this for MM romance fans who also enjoy the superhero/villain genre. I'm really looking forward to reading where Edward and Raul go next in the sequel Where There's Fire.
ARC provided through NetGalley.
"For everybody who always preferred the villain. I feel you, people."
I've always liked the villains more. In fact, the only superhero I've ever liked is Captain America, and that probably has more to do with Chris Evans hot bod' than it does with Captain America as a character. So this book was right up my alley, and it totally delivered.
Panopolis is a city of heroes and villains. The politicians are dirty, and in the pockets of various pharmaceutical companies which have a hand in creating the heroes and villains. The city is barely holding itself together. This is the scenario in which our MC, Edward Dinges, finds himself. Edward tries to keep his head low, but one day he attracts the attention of Raul Tremblay, better known as the Mad Bombardier.
I really liked the premise of how Edward and Raul meet. This isn't a story of a duped innocent and a conniving villain. Edward knows exactly what he's getting himself in to when he decides to date Raul. That's not to say that either of these characters don't have a conscience, but there is a lot of moral ambiguity. My only complaint would be that after the initial date, there's a big gap that's filled in with telling rather than showing. A few extra pages to cement the beginning of the relationship would have been nice.
Cari Z. wrote Raul in a way that makes it clear that he's a villain, but he's not unlikable. I think readers looking for a hardcore villain with no remorse will be a bit disappointed. Raul does have a conscience, and he tries to mitigate the fallout of his actions, though I wouldn't call him an anti-villain. He's just very selective in who he thinks deserves his consideration. But the story is still gritty and it's obvious that Edward is just barely skirting the straight and narrow.
I really enjoyed this novella from Cari Z. There's action and romance, and just a fun story. I'd definitely recommend this for MM romance fans who also enjoy the superhero/villain genre. I'm really looking forward to reading where Edward and Raul go next in the sequel Where There's Fire.
ARC provided through NetGalley.
July 7, 2015
[Raul] told me that [spoiler] had begged...and he hadn't listened to him. "All I could see was you," he said, and that was all sorts of fucked up and horrifying and amazing. I held him closer and kissed him harder.
Loved the world-building, the different superheroes & villains and the story frame of SuperTruther's blog. My only minor complaint is that I would've enjoyed more details about the beginning of Eddie and Raul's fucked up love (my favorite kind!).
Can't wait for the sequel!
Thanks for the great read, BR buddies!
July 1, 2015
I received this book as an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this story. The romance was nice, and I appreciate that it was instant attraction not instant love. The characters were well developed, and I liked that both Edward and Raul were well developed, and interesting. The highlight for me was the world building though. I love the author's exploration of super heroes and villains, and how corporations and the government fit into the mix. It was nicely nuanced, and almost a little too real to life in parts. The plot was mature, and well developed. It was interesting to see Edward's development throughout the course of the story, and seeing him learn more about the city, and the people around him. I'm looking forward to reading more.
I really enjoyed this story. The romance was nice, and I appreciate that it was instant attraction not instant love. The characters were well developed, and I liked that both Edward and Raul were well developed, and interesting. The highlight for me was the world building though. I love the author's exploration of super heroes and villains, and how corporations and the government fit into the mix. It was nicely nuanced, and almost a little too real to life in parts. The plot was mature, and well developed. It was interesting to see Edward's development throughout the course of the story, and seeing him learn more about the city, and the people around him. I'm looking forward to reading more.
July 7, 2015
Buddy-read - 05/07/15 - Let the Villainy begin :D
Thanks to my buddies - I enjoyed reading with you, though sadly I couldn't share your enthusiasm.
-- --
Rounding up, unimpressed but saw lots of potential.
An interesting world but characters that failed to ignite.
I felt I was reading a really great story outline that never got filled out. There are no character descriptions, late into the story I had a stronger impression of a minor character from the bank than I did the main character or his villain boyfriend. On ending I couldn't describe any one or any place, I don't need a lot - but there's nothing.
Was not impressed to discover a year had passed in the relationship - they'd just met! - when development wise it seemed like a few scarce days. This is what stopped me liking the story. They needed to spend time together, on page, the lack of it broke the impact - it made the big gesture that occurs seem completely out off place, instead of a dark twisted symbol to give a guilty thrill.
We saw more of the main character (and yes, I've already forgotten his name) with the earnest-stalky hero than with his boyfriend. Made me wonder if there was a word-limit that necessitated a large chunk of story being cut out and then forced the rest to move too fast to create good visuals.
For me the world was washed-out Gotham-lite when I was hoping for either a strong sense of gritty darkness or wry humour. It wasn't developed enough for the darkness to dominate; what should have been deliciously sinister wasn't. There was never any fear or curiosity. It read as very undecided; instead of a delight in flexible morals Raul has a conscience which suggest a more serious story, yet including a rubberised bouncy villain has to be an attempt to inject humour? his blood-thirsty madness would say not. I needed a better grasp on who the characters were, some grounding in order to appreciate them. Not romance, but context.
It would work well as a comic but in a written fic I need that touch more, the mood of the story (for me) missed it's mark. Raul being so off-page there was no delighted shiver at his big gesture and I wanted there to be, so bad!
It was disappointing. So much promise but nothing that grabbed me. When it comes to villain books I much prefer Love for the Cold-Blooded, or The Part-Time Evil Minion's Guide to Accidentally Dating a Superhero which was a quirky delight, or Dark Lord Seeks Friendship, Maybe More for it's incompetent would-be, or Leviathan! for a snide villainous freebie.
This could have been something new, a far darker thrilling world resounding with mad cackles, but it didn't live up to potential.
By the end I don't care that there's a sequel, I'd rather this get a polish.
Also Shakespeare - I've figured out Cari Z. is a fan, but there was nothing to suggest her character was, however apt the quote might appear.
June 30, 2015
That was great! Very entertaining. I connected with the characters well, especially Edward.
Can't wait for the next one!
July 15, 2015
Why would he want that?
He gets the guy!
"You're a Villain," I said. "But that doesn't make you a bad person."
I loved this novella! I loved the world building. Panopolis is a city of Heroes and Villains but not everything is black and white. Heroes may not be so honorable and Villains aren't completely evil. I also loved the insights we get from SuperTruther's blog posts.
I would've liked more of a relationship build up between Edward and Raul instead of skipping months ahead but I still adored these two together.
I'm really looking forward to the rest of this series.
Awesome Buddy Read here
July 6, 2015
That was fun!
I have always had a thing for superhero stories and this take on the genre was just so clever. It definitely opened my eyes to the other side.
It made me feel a little naughty to be rooting for the villain but believe me, I totally was and still am.
This has great world building and the blog posts at the beginning of each chapter kept my mind wide open.
I can’t wait for the next book!
Thanks for the Buddy Read gang!
-------
Buddy Read!
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
I have always had a thing for superhero stories and this take on the genre was just so clever. It definitely opened my eyes to the other side.
It made me feel a little naughty to be rooting for the villain but believe me, I totally was and still am.
This has great world building and the blog posts at the beginning of each chapter kept my mind wide open.
I can’t wait for the next book!
Thanks for the Buddy Read gang!
-------
Buddy Read!
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
July 17, 2015
I picked this up on a lark after reading Cari's LOR story, Ten Simple Tips for Surviving the Apocalypse.
I am not disappointed in my purchase.
Where There's Smoke is a great start to a series. Ordinarily, I don't like serials but every once in a while one comes along that I can't resist sinking my teeth into.
This was one of those times.
Where There's Smoke takes place in the fictional city of Panopolis which sounds a lot like Gotham with corrupt politicians who have, possibly (probably), sinister intents.
Who are the good guys? The Heroes or the Villains or does the truth lie somewhere in between? Could it be that they're all just pawns in a grand, Machiavellian agenda to maintain the status quo and keep the city of Panopolis in the dark as to what's really happening? My money's on SuperTruther, the subversive radio show host, playing a role.
All of these governmental machinations are the backdrop to a burgeoning love story between Edward and Raul. Raul, a Basque Villain, who's been given the moniker of the Mad Bombardier, sets his sights on Edward while casing his bank. Coffee leads to more and more and more and then...
It ain't easy dating a Villain. All his villainous friends and those pesky Heroes try to stand in the way of their love, namely Freight Train, Hero and, as I've dubbed him, White Bread. Man, is he boring. Jesus, Mary and Joseph! He's the walking incantation of watching paint dry. Plus, he pretty much lives with his meddling "Memaw", Edward's neighbor, and is always lurking. Weirdo.
I don't always love the villains or anti-heroes. I admit I do lurve me some Batman, but more Dark Knight Batman than Michael Keaton Batman, so kinda edgy. I didn't know if I was coming or going in The Dark Knight Rises because...
Tom Hardy could be the hero, the villain, the crazy train, hell, he could have multiple personalities and I'd still be down! Because Tom Hardy.
But, I do really like Raul. He my kind of crazy. That thing with Pinball was fucked up and nasty and horrid and fantastic and kinda sweet, actually. I totally understand why Edward's got it bad for him.
Writing is... it's Cari Z.! If you haven't read anything by her, you're only hurting yourself.
Highly recommend and will be on pins and needles for the next installment which releases 7/13!!!!!!!!
WEEEEEEE!!!!!!!
I am not disappointed in my purchase.
Where There's Smoke is a great start to a series. Ordinarily, I don't like serials but every once in a while one comes along that I can't resist sinking my teeth into.
This was one of those times.
Where There's Smoke takes place in the fictional city of Panopolis which sounds a lot like Gotham with corrupt politicians who have, possibly (probably), sinister intents.
Who are the good guys? The Heroes or the Villains or does the truth lie somewhere in between? Could it be that they're all just pawns in a grand, Machiavellian agenda to maintain the status quo and keep the city of Panopolis in the dark as to what's really happening? My money's on SuperTruther, the subversive radio show host, playing a role.
All of these governmental machinations are the backdrop to a burgeoning love story between Edward and Raul. Raul, a Basque Villain, who's been given the moniker of the Mad Bombardier, sets his sights on Edward while casing his bank. Coffee leads to more and more and more and then...
We hadn't done this often, fucking each other after one of us was spent, but tonight I welcomed it. I wanted to show him I was for him, just for him, that he could take what he needed from me.
It ain't easy dating a Villain. All his villainous friends and those pesky Heroes try to stand in the way of their love, namely Freight Train, Hero and, as I've dubbed him, White Bread. Man, is he boring. Jesus, Mary and Joseph! He's the walking incantation of watching paint dry. Plus, he pretty much lives with his meddling "Memaw", Edward's neighbor, and is always lurking. Weirdo.
I don't always love the villains or anti-heroes. I admit I do lurve me some Batman, but more Dark Knight Batman than Michael Keaton Batman, so kinda edgy. I didn't know if I was coming or going in The Dark Knight Rises because...
Tom Hardy could be the hero, the villain, the crazy train, hell, he could have multiple personalities and I'd still be down! Because Tom Hardy.
But, I do really like Raul. He my kind of crazy. That thing with Pinball was fucked up and nasty and horrid and fantastic and kinda sweet, actually. I totally understand why Edward's got it bad for him.
Writing is... it's Cari Z.! If you haven't read anything by her, you're only hurting yourself.
Highly recommend and will be on pins and needles for the next installment which releases 7/13!!!!!!!!
WEEEEEEE!!!!!!!
April 30, 2015
☆ ☆ 4.5 STARS ☆ ☆
Where There’s Smoke is a refreshingly original and very clever, if a little dark and distorted, view, of the world of comic book heroes and villains. Cari Zee has expertly penned and brilliantly executed a story that has me all kinds of excited to get my hands on the next book, which for me, has been set up perfectly.
I have to admit, I’m not a comic book or superhero fan and I have never read a book by Cari Z, but that blurb… I couldn’t resist… and just had to #oneclick and I am so glad I did… This is a fabulous little gem that reverses the usual preconceived notions of the superheroes found in this cult classic genre; interspersed at the beginning of each chapter with some insight into the city of Panopolis by blog reporter SuperTruther, who enlightens us with bulletins that give us a glimpse of the corrupt politics, and highlights the propaganda of how the embellished good and vilified evil is twisted, in a city where everything is not all as it seems.
It was SuperTruthers tales of heroes and villains that first drew Edward to Panopolis, well, that and the excitement of witnessing those tales first hand and possibly coming face to face with a real life hero. Getting a job in a bank was a bonus for Edward and the thought of getting rescued by a hero was his dream, but when the Mad Bombardier turns up to rob the bank, it’s actually Edward that ends up saving the villain.
Please pop over to the blog and check out the rest of my review...
February 15, 2019
***3.5 stars***
Great intro into a new superhero world. One where the villain may not be evil and the superhero may be more petty than heroic.
Edward Dingus has always wanted to be a hero, but fate has other plans in store for him.
Raul is not an evil villain, but he's not a white knight either.
Can Eddie and Raul find a common future where they can both be happy?
We will have to read the series to find out. ;-)
Great intro into a new superhero world. One where the villain may not be evil and the superhero may be more petty than heroic.
Edward Dingus has always wanted to be a hero, but fate has other plans in store for him.
Raul is not an evil villain, but he's not a white knight either.
Can Eddie and Raul find a common future where they can both be happy?
We will have to read the series to find out. ;-)
June 29, 2015
4.5 rounded up.
LOVED IT. AH. I need the next one like yesterday.
Review Now Available @ Scattered Thoughts & Rogue Words
Whoops. Realized I forgot to edit with the link to my review. See above!
---
Just got my review copy -dances happily- YAY.
LOVED IT. AH. I need the next one like yesterday.
Review Now Available @ Scattered Thoughts & Rogue Words
Whoops. Realized I forgot to edit with the link to my review. See above!
---
Just got my review copy -dances happily- YAY.
June 25, 2015
Sewper fun full review on Prism Book Alliance®
This is cool as hell. It opens in a way that grabbed me and wouldn’t let go. I simply shrugged and said, ok, let’s go! I was glad I’d already eaten lunch and taken a pee break, nether one was going to happen again until I finished reading this.
Mystery. A fantastically imaginative take on heroes and villains and what exactly defines them. A great narrator in the main character. It’s all here, traveling at a steady clip, with a healthy dose of tongue-in-cheek humor and some current social commentary, to boot.
Sure, he was technically a Villain, not a Hero, but according to SuperTruther, the distinction could be a little shaky.
Ya don’t say. I love that this story is basically having some fun with the typical comic book hero-villain dynamic. It’s deftly mixed with elements common to today’s society, which made me pause and think and nod my head in understanding. Clever. All the while, the story isn’t taking itself too seriously. All of this reflects the author’s style and sensibilities, that’s how it feels to me.
Circumstances and people aren’t always as they appear. Panopolis is dealing with that truth, sitting at a crossroads, trying to decide. Do we maintain the status quo and hope for better? Do we dig deeper for more of that truth or bury our heads in the sand instead? Do we consciously choose a different path, redefining who we think we are as people?
~ Sidebar: the title is clever and don’t even get me started on the big city name of Panopolis. ;)
Moral ambiguity, or rather not so ambiguous as… a world just as grey and muddied as our own, portrayed with more obvious labels that still leave much room for questioning and wondering and difficulty in navigating this very opaque existence.
There is a case of insta-love here, and there are some aspects of this particular world about which I wish more detail had been given, but that world-building itself is fun, grin-inducing, and I made connections with the characters. I want to know more, I need to know what happens, and I hope this author in particular is involved in all of that. :)
This is cool as hell. It opens in a way that grabbed me and wouldn’t let go. I simply shrugged and said, ok, let’s go! I was glad I’d already eaten lunch and taken a pee break, nether one was going to happen again until I finished reading this.
Mystery. A fantastically imaginative take on heroes and villains and what exactly defines them. A great narrator in the main character. It’s all here, traveling at a steady clip, with a healthy dose of tongue-in-cheek humor and some current social commentary, to boot.
Sure, he was technically a Villain, not a Hero, but according to SuperTruther, the distinction could be a little shaky.
Ya don’t say. I love that this story is basically having some fun with the typical comic book hero-villain dynamic. It’s deftly mixed with elements common to today’s society, which made me pause and think and nod my head in understanding. Clever. All the while, the story isn’t taking itself too seriously. All of this reflects the author’s style and sensibilities, that’s how it feels to me.
Circumstances and people aren’t always as they appear. Panopolis is dealing with that truth, sitting at a crossroads, trying to decide. Do we maintain the status quo and hope for better? Do we dig deeper for more of that truth or bury our heads in the sand instead? Do we consciously choose a different path, redefining who we think we are as people?
~ Sidebar: the title is clever and don’t even get me started on the big city name of Panopolis. ;)
Moral ambiguity, or rather not so ambiguous as… a world just as grey and muddied as our own, portrayed with more obvious labels that still leave much room for questioning and wondering and difficulty in navigating this very opaque existence.
There is a case of insta-love here, and there are some aspects of this particular world about which I wish more detail had been given, but that world-building itself is fun, grin-inducing, and I made connections with the characters. I want to know more, I need to know what happens, and I hope this author in particular is involved in all of that. :)
July 10, 2015
This novella was...a lot better than I thought it would be. Let's face it, the premise of this book is all sorts of awesome. I might have the guilty pleasure of rooting for the villain sometimes (okay, maybe about 45% of the time), so Where There's Smoke is a great way for me to explore this very aspect.
First and foremost, you'll have to suspend your logical beliefs as one would when reading about super heroes in a comic book. There's really no logic for some of the heroes and villains portrayed in this story, but I just shrugged it off.
But underneath all the hooha, you have an interesting relationship between normal guy Edward and his villain boyfriend. There are ups and downs - nothing really original here. But to see the development in the end has left me tingling all over!
So if you're looking for something to satisfy your villainous needs, I say go for it!
First and foremost, you'll have to suspend your logical beliefs as one would when reading about super heroes in a comic book. There's really no logic for some of the heroes and villains portrayed in this story, but I just shrugged it off.
But underneath all the hooha, you have an interesting relationship between normal guy Edward and his villain boyfriend. There are ups and downs - nothing really original here. But to see the development in the end has left me tingling all over!
So if you're looking for something to satisfy your villainous needs, I say go for it!
July 24, 2015
Likes:
- The idea of a city that is filled with super-powered guys, both Heroes and Villains
- Villain being the 'good' guy in this case, the love interest.
- Edward chooses to be with the villain; it's not like he's a huge fan of a Villain and wants to be part of their world
Dislikes:
- For a love interest, Raul/The Mad Bombardier feels notably absent... there seemed to be more scenes with the creepy stalky Hero.
- The time jump after the first date -- it felt telling arther than showing. I'd love it better if I can be there with Edward and Raul during the early stage of their relationship.
- Since the story is written solely from Edward's perspective, I missed the exploration on Raul's mind and heart. How is it being a Villain who falls in love with ordinary human?
- It never really as gripping or gritty as I perceived to be (based on the cover)
Not sure if I want to check out the sequel. Let's clock that as "maybe"
- The idea of a city that is filled with super-powered guys, both Heroes and Villains
- Villain being the 'good' guy in this case, the love interest.
- Edward chooses to be with the villain; it's not like he's a huge fan of a Villain and wants to be part of their world
Dislikes:
- For a love interest, Raul/The Mad Bombardier feels notably absent... there seemed to be more scenes with the creepy stalky Hero.
- The time jump after the first date -- it felt telling arther than showing. I'd love it better if I can be there with Edward and Raul during the early stage of their relationship.
- Since the story is written solely from Edward's perspective, I missed the exploration on Raul's mind and heart. How is it being a Villain who falls in love with ordinary human?
- It never really as gripping or gritty as I perceived to be (based on the cover)
Not sure if I want to check out the sequel. Let's clock that as "maybe"
June 16, 2017
5 stars for the Audiobook.
4 Stars for the story , this was ok, though short loved the whole Villains /Heroes theme.
4 Stars for the story , this was ok, though short loved the whole Villains /Heroes theme.
February 10, 2017
Well that was fun...
Once again I've gotten to enjoy a book that's sat on my TBR list for much longer than it should have thanks to the fun that is audio books.
Panopolis is an unusual city that seems to be filled with superheroes and super villains and a lot of ordinary normal people who tend to get caught in the cross-fire of their battles. Edward Dinges just happens to be one of those ordinary, normal people and his life is about to become rather complicated and extra-ordinary when the bank he works at is robbed by one of those super villains.
Eddie and Raul, a.k.a. The Mad Bombardier meet when The Mad Bombardier robs the bank where Eddie works and to say the least their's is not an easy relationship. Along with the usual relationship challenges there's the whole issue of Raul being a super villain...but, in his defense he is a super villain with scruples...so there is that. Of course there's also the fact that Eddie's nosy neighbor is the grandmother to a superhero by the name of 'Freight Train' who just happens to like Eddie. Like I said relationship challenges these boys have them. While there is more than a romance story being told here, have no fear there is still a sweet and adorkable romance going on as well.
A good portion of the world-building for Panopolis is given to us through the broadcasting of a local radio announcer named 'Super Truther' who seems to be a bit of an enigma, himself. I know I'm probably going to date myself here (not because I remember this personally but my parents do and by default to a degree that dates me) anyways, this character made me think of the radio propaganda announcers used during WWII, Axis Sally and Tokyo Rose were probably the most well known names from that time, but it was small things like this that gave life to the setting of this story and helped to draw me into what was happening.
When I was a kid I loved reading comic books and with 4 brothers I was pretty much kept in an endless supply of them and on occasion I can still be found with one in my hand or more often than not going to the theater to catch the latest Marvel movie release or standing in the check-out line with the latest Marvel dvd/blueray release included in my purchases. My point being this one was smack dab in the middle of my wheelhouse. How I managed to keep from reading it until now is a bit of a mystery even to me.
Now about the audio portion of this review in a nutshell Nick J. Russo was the narrator and needless to say I was not disappointed in the slightest. In fact, I'm considering whether I want to go ahead and read the remaining two books in this series or wait for the audio books...it's a very tempting possibility and one that I'm going to have to give strong consideration.
If you're a fan of superheroes or more importantly you find yourself cheering for the the underdog (no I'm not talking about the cartoon here) I mean the guy who's not suppose to win, who the odds are stacked against...that's right the villain. Then you need to check this one out. It's short and fun and if you like it there's more where it came from.
********************
An audiobook of 'Where There's Smoke' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Once again I've gotten to enjoy a book that's sat on my TBR list for much longer than it should have thanks to the fun that is audio books.
Panopolis is an unusual city that seems to be filled with superheroes and super villains and a lot of ordinary normal people who tend to get caught in the cross-fire of their battles. Edward Dinges just happens to be one of those ordinary, normal people and his life is about to become rather complicated and extra-ordinary when the bank he works at is robbed by one of those super villains.
Eddie and Raul, a.k.a. The Mad Bombardier meet when The Mad Bombardier robs the bank where Eddie works and to say the least their's is not an easy relationship. Along with the usual relationship challenges there's the whole issue of Raul being a super villain...but, in his defense he is a super villain with scruples...so there is that. Of course there's also the fact that Eddie's nosy neighbor is the grandmother to a superhero by the name of 'Freight Train' who just happens to like Eddie. Like I said relationship challenges these boys have them. While there is more than a romance story being told here, have no fear there is still a sweet and adorkable romance going on as well.
A good portion of the world-building for Panopolis is given to us through the broadcasting of a local radio announcer named 'Super Truther' who seems to be a bit of an enigma, himself. I know I'm probably going to date myself here (not because I remember this personally but my parents do and by default to a degree that dates me) anyways, this character made me think of the radio propaganda announcers used during WWII, Axis Sally and Tokyo Rose were probably the most well known names from that time, but it was small things like this that gave life to the setting of this story and helped to draw me into what was happening.
When I was a kid I loved reading comic books and with 4 brothers I was pretty much kept in an endless supply of them and on occasion I can still be found with one in my hand or more often than not going to the theater to catch the latest Marvel movie release or standing in the check-out line with the latest Marvel dvd/blueray release included in my purchases. My point being this one was smack dab in the middle of my wheelhouse. How I managed to keep from reading it until now is a bit of a mystery even to me.
Now about the audio portion of this review in a nutshell Nick J. Russo was the narrator and needless to say I was not disappointed in the slightest. In fact, I'm considering whether I want to go ahead and read the remaining two books in this series or wait for the audio books...it's a very tempting possibility and one that I'm going to have to give strong consideration.
If you're a fan of superheroes or more importantly you find yourself cheering for the the underdog (no I'm not talking about the cartoon here) I mean the guy who's not suppose to win, who the odds are stacked against...that's right the villain. Then you need to check this one out. It's short and fun and if you like it there's more where it came from.
********************
An audiobook of 'Where There's Smoke' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
November 20, 2016
*** 3 could have been much better ***
An intriguing premise of a story that fell short on delivering.
The character description is lacking. The blossoming romance sucks. There is no relationship development due to a shitty time jump of ONE YEAR!
Me, in every story with (untimely. heh) time jump:
The two main characters basically meet, and then in one page or so, a year had passed and they are a "happy couple".
I hate (see above) time jumps. They take me out of the story and I loose my relation with the characters which I barely got in the first place, since the story just started.
The stalky Hero annoyed me, and his nosy grandmother.
The ending saved the story in my opinion. I think I'm too generous with 3 stars, but I liked the premise of this story, it's certainly original, and I liked the end as a setup for the sequel.
I've already read #2 Where There's Fire, so don't let this lukewarm review discourage you to continue.
Thanks to Marco for the BR!
An intriguing premise of a story that fell short on delivering.
The character description is lacking. The blossoming romance sucks. There is no relationship development due to a shitty time jump of ONE YEAR!
Me, in every story with (untimely. heh) time jump:
The two main characters basically meet, and then in one page or so, a year had passed and they are a "happy couple".
I hate (see above) time jumps. They take me out of the story and I loose my relation with the characters which I barely got in the first place, since the story just started.
The stalky Hero annoyed me, and his nosy grandmother.
The ending saved the story in my opinion. I think I'm too generous with 3 stars, but I liked the premise of this story, it's certainly original, and I liked the end as a setup for the sequel.
I've already read #2 Where There's Fire, so don't let this lukewarm review discourage you to continue.
Thanks to Marco for the BR!
May 4, 2016
Edward works in a bank, which would make you think he has a pretty boring life. But in the city of Panopolis, where Heroes and Villains are more common than the common cold, working in a bank (or walking down the street) pretty much means life is never going to be dull. Especially for Edward, who, amidst a bank robbery by the Mad Bombardier, finds himself drawn to the masked Villain. Which really aught to be a lot more upsetting than it is. But after few flowers, a bit of talking, and some rather quick soul searching, Edward finds himself not-so-reluctantly dating a man that many would much rather see in jail.
But even in Panopolis (or especially in Panopolis) things are not quite as clear cut as they seem. And the danger hunting Edward might just be those who have ‘sworn’ to protect him.
I had picked up this story because I loved Alex Gabriel’s Love for the Cold-Blooded, or The Part-Time Evil Minion's Guide to Accidentally Dating a Superhero, and this sounded like it would be just as much fun to read. And I was pretty much right.
I sincerely wish this was longer because I had quite a bit of fun reading it. I do love it when the ‘good guys’ are not so good and the ‘bad guys’ are…well, they are probably still bad, but they are certainly a lot more fun. And Raul (The Mad Bombardier) was pretty awesome. But then again, I love things going boom!
Edward was pretty cool as well…especially at the end. I have a feeling that his life just got a whole lot more interesting. And I am certainly looking forward to reading the rest of this series because so far it all looks like so much fun.
I loved the set up for this world. And much like Alex Gabriel’s story, a lot of the Hero/Villain tropes are looked at without the rose-colored classes that oh so often come with comic stories. I can’t wait to see where this story and these characters go, because while a lot of this story kinda felt like a set up to the coming tail of these guys, it was still quite interesting.
This was a really great story and I highly recommend it. The only reason it wasn’t higher rated is because it was rather short and felt a tad bit rushed in some places. Still, very very good, and I am eagerly awaiting book two.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
But even in Panopolis (or especially in Panopolis) things are not quite as clear cut as they seem. And the danger hunting Edward might just be those who have ‘sworn’ to protect him.
I had picked up this story because I loved Alex Gabriel’s Love for the Cold-Blooded, or The Part-Time Evil Minion's Guide to Accidentally Dating a Superhero, and this sounded like it would be just as much fun to read. And I was pretty much right.
I sincerely wish this was longer because I had quite a bit of fun reading it. I do love it when the ‘good guys’ are not so good and the ‘bad guys’ are…well, they are probably still bad, but they are certainly a lot more fun. And Raul (The Mad Bombardier) was pretty awesome. But then again, I love things going boom!
Edward was pretty cool as well…especially at the end. I have a feeling that his life just got a whole lot more interesting. And I am certainly looking forward to reading the rest of this series because so far it all looks like so much fun.
I loved the set up for this world. And much like Alex Gabriel’s story, a lot of the Hero/Villain tropes are looked at without the rose-colored classes that oh so often come with comic stories. I can’t wait to see where this story and these characters go, because while a lot of this story kinda felt like a set up to the coming tail of these guys, it was still quite interesting.
This was a really great story and I highly recommend it. The only reason it wasn’t higher rated is because it was rather short and felt a tad bit rushed in some places. Still, very very good, and I am eagerly awaiting book two.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
June 7, 2015
4.5 Stars
This was such a good read. Seriously good. Nothing like these Heroes and, really, Villains to get you going - and I don't normally get into them. I picked this book on the strength of Rules to Live By and I am so glad I did. Loved it!
Cari Z has written an interesting, compelling, sexy novella and I cannot wait to move on to the next instalment with Edward and Raul, aka The Mad Bombardier.
Non-spoiler more in-depth review on the blog
This was such a good read. Seriously good. Nothing like these Heroes and, really, Villains to get you going - and I don't normally get into them. I picked this book on the strength of Rules to Live By and I am so glad I did. Loved it!
Cari Z has written an interesting, compelling, sexy novella and I cannot wait to move on to the next instalment with Edward and Raul, aka The Mad Bombardier.
Non-spoiler more in-depth review on the blog
Read
May 20, 2015DNF 45%
Everything is being skimmed over so quickly. It's a good story but it needs more meat for lack of a better term.
Kinda makes me sad.
*Netgalley read
Everything is being skimmed over so quickly. It's a good story but it needs more meat for lack of a better term.
Kinda makes me sad.
*Netgalley read
June 29, 2015
Fast, quirky, very KICK-ASS! I loved, loved this story!!!
I loved the fun grit, Alcatraz-like experimentation and the whole dealio about superheroes vs supervillains! Eat that Steelheart!
Raul AKA Mad Bombardier and Edward Dinges ^^ are just super sweet and fun together!
Can't wait to see Edward's power evolving in the next book!!!!
I loved the fun grit, Alcatraz-like experimentation and the whole dealio about superheroes vs supervillains! Eat that Steelheart!
Raul AKA Mad Bombardier and Edward Dinges ^^ are just super sweet and fun together!
Can't wait to see Edward's power evolving in the next book!!!!
October 29, 2017
This didn't go the way I thought it would. The build up to the MCs relationship was missing. And it's not even a matter of being told vs shown - it's a matter of BAM strangers to relationship. I grew to like the story more as it went on and I will read the next book but I really hope the plot and on page action gets more detailed.
This was just ok for me. I hope book 2 is better.
This was just ok for me. I hope book 2 is better.
August 18, 2015
The first novella in a new series by Cari Z and I loved it. Cari Z always writes stories that are different and when you read them you know that you are getting something unique. Not a trope in sight!
This story takes us to Panopolis a city which is pulled between the forces of good and evil: between the Heroes and the Villains, but what happens when an ordinary joe falls for a Villain?
Edward was born in Panopolis and is pretty much an ordinary joe. He has a job in a bank, an apartment and life is so so even though he lives in the city of Heroes and Villains. He watches the stories on the news and doesn't think much of the violence and the battles until he is caught up in a bank robbery.
And the robber happens to be the Mad Bombardier.
And Edward finds that he is caught up in the life of the Mad Bombardier and gradually falling in love but is it really wise to fall in love with the bad guy?
I really liked this story. It is gripping and fast paced and I just loved the different kinds of Heroes and Villains.
Edwards finds that he is skirting the thin edge of crime as he comes to know the Mad Bombardier as a person but what does this mean for their future and is it possible to see the good in the bad guy?
I really liked the setting for this story and the city which is over run by Heroes who are not always heroic and Villains who are not totally submerged in villany. It is a great story: fast paced from the start, engaging, brilliant characters and words which paint pictures in my mind.
I love a good superhero story and Cari Z has certainly nailed it with this one.
Now off to read book two.
This story takes us to Panopolis a city which is pulled between the forces of good and evil: between the Heroes and the Villains, but what happens when an ordinary joe falls for a Villain?
Edward was born in Panopolis and is pretty much an ordinary joe. He has a job in a bank, an apartment and life is so so even though he lives in the city of Heroes and Villains. He watches the stories on the news and doesn't think much of the violence and the battles until he is caught up in a bank robbery.
And the robber happens to be the Mad Bombardier.
And Edward finds that he is caught up in the life of the Mad Bombardier and gradually falling in love but is it really wise to fall in love with the bad guy?
I really liked this story. It is gripping and fast paced and I just loved the different kinds of Heroes and Villains.
Edwards finds that he is skirting the thin edge of crime as he comes to know the Mad Bombardier as a person but what does this mean for their future and is it possible to see the good in the bad guy?
I really liked the setting for this story and the city which is over run by Heroes who are not always heroic and Villains who are not totally submerged in villany. It is a great story: fast paced from the start, engaging, brilliant characters and words which paint pictures in my mind.
I love a good superhero story and Cari Z has certainly nailed it with this one.
Now off to read book two.
April 20, 2015
A while ago I listened to an an audio book with characters that had super abilities that put themselves above the law and were walking a fine line between good and evil. I enjoyed it. I would have enjoyed it more had it been targeted towards adults.
With Heroes and Villains, a broken justice system, and a corrupt political system, with a small side of romance, Where There’s Smoke was right up my alley. Panopolis is swarming with Heroes and Villains. There is a thin gray line that differentiates the two though. I liked this. It really worked well for our heroes Edward and Raul. I also loved the little tidbits of Panopolis facts that open each chapter through SuperTruther’s blog posts.
Bank teller and simply human Edward manages to fall in love with Raul after they take notice of each other during a bank robbery. Raul is not a plain human, he is known to others as the Mad Bombardier. Edward sees that there is nothing mad about the man and the courtship ensues. Everyone knows that when you run with trouble the trouble generally attacks you too. Edward finds out firsthand just how unjust and broken the system is when he gets caught up in someone else's mess.
Cari Z created a fascinating world with even an even more interesting array of characters. I’m looking forward to what she has planned for Edward.
With Heroes and Villains, a broken justice system, and a corrupt political system, with a small side of romance, Where There’s Smoke was right up my alley. Panopolis is swarming with Heroes and Villains. There is a thin gray line that differentiates the two though. I liked this. It really worked well for our heroes Edward and Raul. I also loved the little tidbits of Panopolis facts that open each chapter through SuperTruther’s blog posts.
Bank teller and simply human Edward manages to fall in love with Raul after they take notice of each other during a bank robbery. Raul is not a plain human, he is known to others as the Mad Bombardier. Edward sees that there is nothing mad about the man and the courtship ensues. Everyone knows that when you run with trouble the trouble generally attacks you too. Edward finds out firsthand just how unjust and broken the system is when he gets caught up in someone else's mess.
Cari Z created a fascinating world with even an even more interesting array of characters. I’m looking forward to what she has planned for Edward.
February 25, 2017
3.5 Stars
Interesting premise and a good start to the world building, but it needed more time to build.
It also lacked in the relationship building. Edward and Raul had so much of their relationship off page. I would have liked to have seen more time with them as a couple doing couple things around town, etc.
Mostly though, I can't say I loved the cliffhanger ending. Grr.
What I did love was Nick J. Russo's narration. 5 Stars for the narration! His character voices brought this short story to life and definitely kept me enthralled.
I'm looking forward to the next story in the series, and finding out all the wicked truths about Panopolis...but I think I'll wait to catch it on audio.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
May 2, 2015
I finished this with a strong, "HELL yes!"
Finally, the underdog, the villain, gets his day(s)! Whereas the heroes in this world are screwed up and the system in power is corrupt and seriously flawed, the Mad Bombardier is the real "hero." Yes, he's a Villain, yes, he steals; but he also doesn't hurt people on purpose, is like the only sane Super citizen in the place, is sexy, is a damn sweet and nurturing boyfriend, and just plain rocks.
At first I was annoyed 'cause I would have liked to see the relationship grow more instead of having that part largely skipped over, but the main conflict of the story came later, so it's definitely worth four stars, but because of that lack of strong basis and development in their relationship on page, it doesn't get five stars.
Very much recommended, though. A really great read, and now I am waiting really impatiently for the sequel. (Just look at the cover for it! GO VILLAINS!!!)
"Panopolis wasn't going to know what hit it."
Finally, the underdog, the villain, gets his day(s)! Whereas the heroes in this world are screwed up and the system in power is corrupt and seriously flawed, the Mad Bombardier is the real "hero." Yes, he's a Villain, yes, he steals; but he also doesn't hurt people on purpose, is like the only sane Super citizen in the place, is sexy, is a damn sweet and nurturing boyfriend, and just plain rocks.
At first I was annoyed 'cause I would have liked to see the relationship grow more instead of having that part largely skipped over, but the main conflict of the story came later, so it's definitely worth four stars, but because of that lack of strong basis and development in their relationship on page, it doesn't get five stars.
Very much recommended, though. A really great read, and now I am waiting really impatiently for the sequel. (Just look at the cover for it! GO VILLAINS!!!)
"Panopolis wasn't going to know what hit it."
February 29, 2016
Want more, oh look there's one Where There's Fire in like Flynn
I loved this, heroes and villains, a created city to contain then, and the hint of a bigger picture via the blog chapter intro's. Honestly it was too short, and that detracted a tiny bit because it lacked depth a bit. But I'm hoping the second book rectifies that.
Great fun, and just emotional / romantic enough as well
I loved this, heroes and villains, a created city to contain then, and the hint of a bigger picture via the blog chapter intro's. Honestly it was too short, and that detracted a tiny bit because it lacked depth a bit. But I'm hoping the second book rectifies that.
Great fun, and just emotional / romantic enough as well
April 4, 2020
I just love superhero things! This book is no exception.
A normal Joe working at a bank helps a villain who was robbing him and in return the villain sends him flowers as a thank you and invites him for coffee, all of a sudden normal Edward Dingus is dating the super villain "The Mad Bombardier" what could possibly go wrong, right?
A really fun short read. Totally recommend to anyone who loves hero stuff.
A normal Joe working at a bank helps a villain who was robbing him and in return the villain sends him flowers as a thank you and invites him for coffee, all of a sudden normal Edward Dingus is dating the super villain "The Mad Bombardier" what could possibly go wrong, right?
A really fun short read. Totally recommend to anyone who loves hero stuff.
May 23, 2020
This was short and felt more like a prequel than a Book 1, but it was fun and I am interested in finding out more about the shady goings-on behind the scenes.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews