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Sky Cities #1
Heart of Tartarus
On Tartarus I was born…
Soaked in power and secrets—Tartarus is a city for rebels, exiles, and criminals. As a messenger, every shadow is my friend. I know all the secrets of this place. Or, at least, I thought I did. When my best friend, Kida, goes missing, I don’t waste any time assuming her identity to draw her or whoever took her, out of hiding.
On Tartarus I will die…
As I search for Kida’s whereabouts, Tartarus’ most dangerous gang—The Tanks—are slowly rising out of the chromework, growing more and more powerful. Every instinct in my body is screaming for me to run, to save myself, but I can’t—not without Kida. If I have to set the city ablaze just to get her attention, I will. And if the fire doesn’t kill me, the secrets I uncover just might.
***THIS COPY CONTAINS BOOK 1 AND 1.5 OF THE SKY CITIES SERIES***
***THIS IS A REVERSE HAREM TITLE***
Soaked in power and secrets—Tartarus is a city for rebels, exiles, and criminals. As a messenger, every shadow is my friend. I know all the secrets of this place. Or, at least, I thought I did. When my best friend, Kida, goes missing, I don’t waste any time assuming her identity to draw her or whoever took her, out of hiding.
On Tartarus I will die…
As I search for Kida’s whereabouts, Tartarus’ most dangerous gang—The Tanks—are slowly rising out of the chromework, growing more and more powerful. Every instinct in my body is screaming for me to run, to save myself, but I can’t—not without Kida. If I have to set the city ablaze just to get her attention, I will. And if the fire doesn’t kill me, the secrets I uncover just might.
***THIS COPY CONTAINS BOOK 1 AND 1.5 OF THE SKY CITIES SERIES***
***THIS IS A REVERSE HAREM TITLE***
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 25, 2018
255 people are currently reading
804 people want to read
About the author
Lucy Smoke
71 books2,804 followersLucy Smoke, also known as Lucinda Dark for her fantasy works, has a master’s degree in English and is a self-proclaimed creative chihuahua. She enjoys feeding her wanderlust, cover addiction, as well as her face, and truly hopes people will stop giving her bath bombs as gifts. Bath’s get cold too fast and it’s just not as wonderful as the commercials make it out to be when the tub isn’t a jacuzzi.
When she’s not on a never-ending quest to find the perfect milkshake, she lives and works in the southern United States with her beloved fur-baby, Hiro, and her family and friends.
When she’s not on a never-ending quest to find the perfect milkshake, she lives and works in the southern United States with her beloved fur-baby, Hiro, and her family and friends.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
October 14, 2018
This book was like eating the most delicious food and then discovering a bug at the bottom after you've already eaten the entire portion.
BEFORE YOU BUY THIS BOOK... THIS IS NOT A REVERSE HAREM, POLYAMORY, ROMANCE.
this is a f/f, young adult
Let me try to explain this pile of disappointment. I started off loving this book. Strong female lead, hot sexy men, lots of action and a fantastic premise. I was TOTALLY into it. Then at about 70% all of it started to change for me. It was like a completely different story written by a different author. This is actually a female/female, lgbt young adult story. There is absolutely no sex in this at all. Its definitely labeled incorrectly and that is annoying AF. I dont mind f/f books but I was NOT in the mood for that. I wanted to read a polyamorous, reverse harem book. THIS IS NOT THAT BOOK! Why?? Why is this labeled incorrectly!?
This book is a huge disappointment. I was all about a 4 or 5 star rating but the last 30% of this book is bullshit and changed my entire view.
How many damn nicknames does Cass have? Troublemaker, Rocket and Firecracker? Then there is all the different ways to say Cassandra. Oh lord... just pick one name and stick with it.
Also the last 30% is nothing but Cass grieving. Hosting her own pity party. Sure... she lost someone close to her and I know thats not easy, but the author didnt need to write about it the entire last portion of the book. Another thing that confused me was the 2 EPILOGUES IN THE MIDDLE OF THE BOOK?
I just cant with this anymore. The story started out perfect for me but ended up crashing and burning. The plot is really weak and I feel like the author gave up and couldn't figure out what direction to go in. Im really happy this is a KU book and I will not continue with this series.
buy the book... or whatever
BEFORE YOU BUY THIS BOOK... THIS IS NOT A REVERSE HAREM, POLYAMORY, ROMANCE.
this is a f/f, young adult
Let me try to explain this pile of disappointment. I started off loving this book. Strong female lead, hot sexy men, lots of action and a fantastic premise. I was TOTALLY into it. Then at about 70% all of it started to change for me. It was like a completely different story written by a different author. This is actually a female/female, lgbt young adult story. There is absolutely no sex in this at all. Its definitely labeled incorrectly and that is annoying AF. I dont mind f/f books but I was NOT in the mood for that. I wanted to read a polyamorous, reverse harem book. THIS IS NOT THAT BOOK! Why?? Why is this labeled incorrectly!?
This book is a huge disappointment. I was all about a 4 or 5 star rating but the last 30% of this book is bullshit and changed my entire view.
How many damn nicknames does Cass have? Troublemaker, Rocket and Firecracker? Then there is all the different ways to say Cassandra. Oh lord... just pick one name and stick with it.
Also the last 30% is nothing but Cass grieving. Hosting her own pity party. Sure... she lost someone close to her and I know thats not easy, but the author didnt need to write about it the entire last portion of the book. Another thing that confused me was the 2 EPILOGUES IN THE MIDDLE OF THE BOOK?
I just cant with this anymore. The story started out perfect for me but ended up crashing and burning. The plot is really weak and I feel like the author gave up and couldn't figure out what direction to go in. Im really happy this is a KU book and I will not continue with this series.
buy the book... or whatever
September 28, 2018
5 Stars
Review Copy
Release Date-25/6/18
This was so good: like seriously read in one sitting fab.
A new author for me and what originally drew me towards this series was the unusual premise behind the storyline.
I have read many dystopian themed books where the earth has been obliterated and society is now living in a new type of hierarchy or even taken off into space itself to a whole new planet: but an actual sky society was a whole new concept for me.
Such an ingenious imaginative idea: throw in a reverse harem type storyline and this was definitely an extremely unique approach to the whole post-apocalyptic sub-genre.
And this was such a fabulous introduction to what is looking up to be a first-class new series.
And the whole reverse harem thing well it's subtle: like very, this is more about building emotions and the whole emotive relationship than any gratifying get your rocks off type thing.
In fact, this is a very slow build burn and as much as I am usually about instant gratification this really does work here and I have to say this for me was the best Reverse Harem I have experienced yet.
It's so ingeniously applied that it becomes so normal and acceptable here without even realising it: Like second nature.
There is also so much flying under the radar here that totally stunned and intrigued me; This story was full of surprises indeed.
Also, the world building here was phenomenally well done: I was really impressed with how splendidly the whole city of Tartarus and its surrounding metropolis was portrayed.
The characters here were totally multi-faceted in there entirety and I really felt that I got to know each one intimately.
Quite a feat when this is actually only told from Cassie's POV.
I loved Cassie and also adored her boys all of them brought something unique to the equation: something that Cassie needed: I also liked how protective and warm they were emotionally towards her.
I could actually see Cassie, Thayer, Levi, Aaron, Haze, and Noaz gradually morphing into a family and it was really lovely to behold especially considering the lack of caregivers in Cassie's life.
So this volume contained book 1 and 1.5 it really could have been one if I'm being picky.
But no matter I read them as one anyway.
I am so looking forward to the next volume in this addictive new series and pleased to impart it won't be long and I'm so excited that I have got an ARC of "Shadow Of Deception"(Sky Cities #2) coming so watch this space.
I really can't recommend Heart of Tartarus (Sky Cities, #1) enough it literally blew me away with how fabulous it actually was: counting the days here until I get my mitts on the next volume.
Thank You to the Author for providing me with an ARC of "Heart of Tartarus" (Sky Cities, #1) of which I have reviewed voluntary.
All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
no-dnf-zzz-avoid
June 25, 2018has FF , not my thing
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2018
Ugh.
I started this book because it was tagged as Reverse Harem and at about 85% in, I was still trying to figure out why. This book has a main character and she is tasked with working with a group of guys. That does not a reverse harem make people! I think I see where the author is going with this and why it might later be considered RH, but as of this book...I wasn't buying it. First of all, the main H is in a F/F relationship with another chick, and second of all, two of the guys in her potential "harem" are in love with EACHOTHER and trying to figure that shit out. Ummmm, tell me again how this is RH?
Aside from that, I wouldn't have minded this story, except the H is soooooo damn annoying!!! I could not get past it. Seriously, I probably would have continued this series regardless of its lack of RH-ness, but I just can't deal with that H. Sorry, this is a no-go for me.
I started this book because it was tagged as Reverse Harem and at about 85% in, I was still trying to figure out why. This book has a main character and she is tasked with working with a group of guys. That does not a reverse harem make people! I think I see where the author is going with this and why it might later be considered RH, but as of this book...I wasn't buying it. First of all, the main H is in a F/F relationship with another chick, and second of all, two of the guys in her potential "harem" are in love with EACHOTHER and trying to figure that shit out. Ummmm, tell me again how this is RH?
Aside from that, I wouldn't have minded this story, except the H is soooooo damn annoying!!! I could not get past it. Seriously, I probably would have continued this series regardless of its lack of RH-ness, but I just can't deal with that H. Sorry, this is a no-go for me.
March 25, 2020
For a Futuristic Dystopian landscape, there is far less action included in these pages than I would expect - and far more of a lyrical, emotional ambiance. There is action, of course, just a bit less, and there is time to breathe between the scenes, allowing the knowledge presented to meld into a solid picture.
The characters are intriguing, though not quite fully formed yet. The potential is there, and the scars are becoming clearer, as is the direction this group will eventually fall. It's beautiful, in a painful kind of way - and it IS painful. Events happen that just flat out hurt, and the descriptions of grief that imbue the Novella at the end made my heart hurt with their rawness.
All in all, this is a vivid and well wrought world, one I can't wait to continue exploring in Book 2.
The characters are intriguing, though not quite fully formed yet. The potential is there, and the scars are becoming clearer, as is the direction this group will eventually fall. It's beautiful, in a painful kind of way - and it IS painful. Events happen that just flat out hurt, and the descriptions of grief that imbue the Novella at the end made my heart hurt with their rawness.
All in all, this is a vivid and well wrought world, one I can't wait to continue exploring in Book 2.
August 11, 2018
3.5 stars - enjoyable despite being a bit predictable for the RH genre
I was slightly unsure of this when at 1% I had (what I thought to be) a distant planet and a MC who was a messenger? Ring any bells? But in actuality that's where the similarities between this and "shoot the messenger" ended. It turned out to be a dystopian earth and I enjoyed it at the end.
As I said its a dystopian earth after humans have ruined the planet they have built cities on platforms in the sky to live. I found it hard to picture the world to be honest, the descriptions weren't all that clear but what I did gather is Tartarus is the city where all the criminals and addicts reside. It makes it a rough place to survive for our protagonist Cassandra. Her best-friend Kida has gone missing and in an attempt to find her she's posing as Kida and attracts the wrong attention from a band of 5 men looking for Kida.
enter the harem
The guys are a bit stereotypical of the RH genre; we have the tech guy, the care-free comedian, the big burly tattooed one who is soft inside (always my favourite), the hard-to-figure out one, and then a fighter thrown in for good measure! This set-up works for me in RH because I have a hard time remembering names and this does help give them all a little personality right from the start. (I don't even need to mention how ripped their bodies are do I? That's pretty much assumed right?)
Together they set about to find Kida and rescue her. At a few points I questioned if this was paranormal at all as some of the guys seemed to display supernatural traits but nope this was a contemporary if futuristic harem.
The other thing to point out is this is 2 books in 1 so don't freak out like I did at 76% when you're reading an epilogue! Book 1.5 is right after and goes onto 99%.
I don't really understand why Lucy Smoke did this, why not just continue to story why break it up into 2? There was a slight story line change between the two but nothing that couldn't have been continued in one book, not just because it actually is continued in the one book just labelled differently.
There is a bit of F/F and a potential for M/M (bring it on). The F/F nearly put me off but it all worked out in the end!
so all in all in didn't inspire me to
but it was good enough that I will pick up the next.
Not my favourite Lucy smoke either I think I like Iris Boys and Nerys Newblood better, but the potential M/M does give it an edge that makes me want to read on.
I was slightly unsure of this when at 1% I had (what I thought to be) a distant planet and a MC who was a messenger? Ring any bells? But in actuality that's where the similarities between this and "shoot the messenger" ended. It turned out to be a dystopian earth and I enjoyed it at the end.
As I said its a dystopian earth after humans have ruined the planet they have built cities on platforms in the sky to live. I found it hard to picture the world to be honest, the descriptions weren't all that clear but what I did gather is Tartarus is the city where all the criminals and addicts reside. It makes it a rough place to survive for our protagonist Cassandra. Her best-friend Kida has gone missing and in an attempt to find her she's posing as Kida and attracts the wrong attention from a band of 5 men looking for Kida.
enter the harem
The guys are a bit stereotypical of the RH genre; we have the tech guy, the care-free comedian, the big burly tattooed one who is soft inside (always my favourite), the hard-to-figure out one, and then a fighter thrown in for good measure! This set-up works for me in RH because I have a hard time remembering names and this does help give them all a little personality right from the start. (I don't even need to mention how ripped their bodies are do I? That's pretty much assumed right?)
Together they set about to find Kida and rescue her. At a few points I questioned if this was paranormal at all as some of the guys seemed to display supernatural traits but nope this was a contemporary if futuristic harem.
The other thing to point out is this is 2 books in 1 so don't freak out like I did at 76% when you're reading an epilogue! Book 1.5 is right after and goes onto 99%.
I don't really understand why Lucy Smoke did this, why not just continue to story why break it up into 2? There was a slight story line change between the two but nothing that couldn't have been continued in one book, not just because it actually is continued in the one book just labelled differently.
There is a bit of F/F and a potential for M/M (bring it on). The F/F nearly put me off but it all worked out in the end!
so all in all in didn't inspire me to
but it was good enough that I will pick up the next.
Not my favourite Lucy smoke either I think I like Iris Boys and Nerys Newblood better, but the potential M/M does give it an edge that makes me want to read on.
October 20, 2018
Well then.
TBH I got this book awhile ago in my shelves, returned it after not reading it due to starting other books, then decided yesterday to give it another go.
I fucking LOVED it.
Lemme clarify: I loved the plot, loved the men. Still iffy on Cass.
This booked wowed me at every turn. Just when I thought I had it figured out, BAM, nothing was what I thought but strangely enough my predictions were true. Does this make sense?
My thoughts while reading this book:
Alright I’m confused.
What started out as what I assumed would be a kick ass heroine is actually just a strange chick who has severe attachment issues to her bff/lover (can’t say I DIDN’T see that coming) and basically alienates society because of said attachment.
WE SAW SO MANY SIDES OF CASS. I’m now convinced she’ll be “broken Cass” in book 2.
But I found the attachment between Kida and Cass to be both beautiful and toxic, and it reminds me a lot of relationships seen in adolescence. Where teens are pining over each other as if no one else is made for them. Ya know, young love.
Upon meeting Kida- I was heavily disappointed. My initial thought is that she’s selfish but cares for Cassie but locks her away in a tight little box away from the world. As it turned out in the remainder of the book you could tell she was... guarded? I don’t want to say selfish but I don’t know how to describe her. Let the lady GROW, woman. I mean damn. These poor guys have like 50,000 layers to peel back due to the damage Kida’s done.
Sheesh.
The ending: I mean.... not to be harsh but this is an RH novel how else was this gonna work with Kida in the picture?? 😅😅 that sounded terrible I know but I was wondering how the author was going to do this.
Either way LOVED LOVED LOVED this.
Ready for book 2.
P.s. totes ready for some Levi-Aaron action.
TBH I got this book awhile ago in my shelves, returned it after not reading it due to starting other books, then decided yesterday to give it another go.
I fucking LOVED it.
Lemme clarify: I loved the plot, loved the men. Still iffy on Cass.
This booked wowed me at every turn. Just when I thought I had it figured out, BAM, nothing was what I thought but strangely enough my predictions were true. Does this make sense?
My thoughts while reading this book:
Alright I’m confused.
What started out as what I assumed would be a kick ass heroine is actually just a strange chick who has severe attachment issues to her bff/lover (can’t say I DIDN’T see that coming) and basically alienates society because of said attachment.
WE SAW SO MANY SIDES OF CASS. I’m now convinced she’ll be “broken Cass” in book 2.
But I found the attachment between Kida and Cass to be both beautiful and toxic, and it reminds me a lot of relationships seen in adolescence. Where teens are pining over each other as if no one else is made for them. Ya know, young love.
Upon meeting Kida- I was heavily disappointed. My initial thought is that she’s selfish but cares for Cassie but locks her away in a tight little box away from the world. As it turned out in the remainder of the book you could tell she was... guarded? I don’t want to say selfish but I don’t know how to describe her. Let the lady GROW, woman. I mean damn. These poor guys have like 50,000 layers to peel back due to the damage Kida’s done.
Sheesh.
The ending: I mean.... not to be harsh but this is an RH novel how else was this gonna work with Kida in the picture?? 😅😅 that sounded terrible I know but I was wondering how the author was going to do this.
Either way LOVED LOVED LOVED this.
Ready for book 2.
P.s. totes ready for some Levi-Aaron action.
September 16, 2018
I found the world intriguing, the story has potential, & the characters are pleasant. 3.5 stars will continue the series.
November 28, 2021
Not bad, not great either.
Good, decent series, well written, but pretty forgettable and typical.
Good, decent series, well written, but pretty forgettable and typical.
June 25, 2018
I am so mad. So very mad.
It says in the blurb that it is a Reverse Harem which is a Harem reversed; so multiple men romantically involved with one woman.
Which is a L I E !
The book is not labelled as LGBT.
I bought the book because it was labelled as RH.
I would not have bought the book had I known it was LGBT, and I did not know because it isn't labelled correctly. I don't care for LGBT-books and I don't buy them until now appearantly because someone decided not to use all the relevant labels.
It says in the blurb that it is a Reverse Harem which is a Harem reversed; so multiple men romantically involved with one woman.
Which is a L I E !
The book is not labelled as LGBT.
I bought the book because it was labelled as RH.
I would not have bought the book had I known it was LGBT, and I did not know because it isn't labelled correctly. I don't care for LGBT-books and I don't buy them until now appearantly because someone decided not to use all the relevant labels.
June 26, 2018
I was really not sure what to expect from this story when I bought it, but can I just say it was money that was very well spent indeed! I was hooked from the very beginning, Cassie is such a great character, strong and fiesty but also soft and vulnerable at times, I really connected to her from the beginning. Set in
Dystopian world, the story is exciting throughout with twist and turns, Danger and sweet romance. I was intrigued excited and has a case of the feels whilst reading. With a great cast of character and an epic storyline, I am so looking forward to reading more. This is a real page turner and I highly recommend this book
Dystopian world, the story is exciting throughout with twist and turns, Danger and sweet romance. I was intrigued excited and has a case of the feels whilst reading. With a great cast of character and an epic storyline, I am so looking forward to reading more. This is a real page turner and I highly recommend this book
July 9, 2018
#SpoilerWarrior
The idea behind this book is so cool. I love the idea of floating cities above Earth. I love the dystopian feel. I do feel like the language is too...Earthy though. Too many references to a time in history that people on Earth wouldn’t have actually made.
I also feel very rushed in this book. I get that the guys seem trustworthy and they’re hot, and i could even see her wanting to just drown her grief in them. But to care for them? Want them? Now? Already? Meh.
I liked her relationship with Kida, so it’s unfortunate that that’s already over. It would have been interesting to watch her juggle her new friendships with the guys and her relationship with Kida.
The idea behind this book is so cool. I love the idea of floating cities above Earth. I love the dystopian feel. I do feel like the language is too...Earthy though. Too many references to a time in history that people on Earth wouldn’t have actually made.
I also feel very rushed in this book. I get that the guys seem trustworthy and they’re hot, and i could even see her wanting to just drown her grief in them. But to care for them? Want them? Now? Already? Meh.
I liked her relationship with Kida, so it’s unfortunate that that’s already over. It would have been interesting to watch her juggle her new friendships with the guys and her relationship with Kida.
July 24, 2018
Probably more like 3.5, but I rounded up, as I enjoyed the dystopian world and found the characters likeable. The MC was a bit over-dramatic in places, and the men are a bit of RH cut outs, however, I liked them all.
I think there's loads of potential here and I'll definitely be picking up the next one... although it doesn't appear to be listed on Goodreads, so hopefully there will be a next one?!
I think there's loads of potential here and I'll definitely be picking up the next one... although it doesn't appear to be listed on Goodreads, so hopefully there will be a next one?!
December 11, 2021
Hoopla Audiobook.
Audiobook notes - I liked the narrator.
Hm. I don't know exactly how I feel about this one. The opening scene reminded me of a lesser version of Don't Shoot the Messenger by Pippa DaCosta. So I started this book with eyes squinted.
The rest of the action follows the search for Kida, and the development of the main character's friendships with guys on the team that Governor Vincent Diamond has put together to search for his Goddaughter. We get flashbacks of Kida and Cassandra, and their relationship, so their romance is implied, but not stated until the very end of the book. What makes the revelation of their romantic relationship so confusing is that she spends the whole book lusting over 5 guys, but then in the last few chapters declares that Kida is her world, and she's madly in love, blah blah blah. So yeah, I had a hard time believing that romance.
The audiobook comes with book 1.5 which is basically Cass wallowing in her grief for a character that I didn't particularly know or care for. Eventually, she starts to come out of her grief and becomes strong enough to live again.
I'm not sure that I have the patience for the rest of this story.
Audiobook notes - I liked the narrator.
Hm. I don't know exactly how I feel about this one. The opening scene reminded me of a lesser version of Don't Shoot the Messenger by Pippa DaCosta. So I started this book with eyes squinted.
The rest of the action follows the search for Kida, and the development of the main character's friendships with guys on the team that Governor Vincent Diamond has put together to search for his Goddaughter. We get flashbacks of Kida and Cassandra, and their relationship, so their romance is implied, but not stated until the very end of the book. What makes the revelation of their romantic relationship so confusing is that she spends the whole book lusting over 5 guys, but then in the last few chapters declares that Kida is her world, and she's madly in love, blah blah blah. So yeah, I had a hard time believing that romance.
The audiobook comes with book 1.5 which is basically Cass wallowing in her grief for a character that I didn't particularly know or care for. Eventually, she starts to come out of her grief and becomes strong enough to live again.
I'm not sure that I have the patience for the rest of this story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2025
I was expecting better from Lucy Smoke. Lots of dialogue, very little action, lots of conversations about grief.
June 23, 2018
Cass has had an extremely rough life. Now the one person who has ever been there for her has gone missing. Kida told her not to look for her but how could she not. Tartarus is a dangerous place though and Cass has to be careful. She finds herself in a world of trouble when she gets captured. That could end up being the turning point in her whole life.
So first let me say that this is my absolute FAVORITE book by Lucy. That's saying a lot b/c I love the Iris Boys. This book is so unique and captivating though. Lucy takes us to a whole new world. You would think that introducing a world as complex as this would take up too much of the story and drag it down but that is not the case. She does an amazing job of describing it so you can picture it all in your head while smoothly flowing along in the story.
Cass is just bad ass. That's all there is to it. She has her small moments of weakness and can be a little insecure but when you read about her life, you will understand why. The guys are all fantastic as well. Of course they are all going to be different and have their own strengths and weaknesses. They all have their own stories and pasts. You can't help but to love them all though.
I don't want to really tell you what happens in the book. You need to experience it as you go. I'm gonna say this though, keep an open mind. What you think may be going to happen or is hinted at in the past.....ugh so hard to explain without spoiling it. Just know that it's not all going to go how you think it will and if you are worried about something while reading the book, keep on going b/c I'm sure that like me, you will love how it all turns out in the end.
I also love that Lucy has given us 1.5 as well as just the first book. It's a shorter read and that extra bit helps to settle things down after the ending of book one. I'm not sure I could have waited patiently for more without that. Hell, I'm still not patiently waiting b/c I seriously love this book and these characters so much. Bravo to Lucy on knocking this bad boy out of the park and thank you for giving us such a refreshing read and unique new world to explore.
So first let me say that this is my absolute FAVORITE book by Lucy. That's saying a lot b/c I love the Iris Boys. This book is so unique and captivating though. Lucy takes us to a whole new world. You would think that introducing a world as complex as this would take up too much of the story and drag it down but that is not the case. She does an amazing job of describing it so you can picture it all in your head while smoothly flowing along in the story.
Cass is just bad ass. That's all there is to it. She has her small moments of weakness and can be a little insecure but when you read about her life, you will understand why. The guys are all fantastic as well. Of course they are all going to be different and have their own strengths and weaknesses. They all have their own stories and pasts. You can't help but to love them all though.
I don't want to really tell you what happens in the book. You need to experience it as you go. I'm gonna say this though, keep an open mind. What you think may be going to happen or is hinted at in the past.....ugh so hard to explain without spoiling it. Just know that it's not all going to go how you think it will and if you are worried about something while reading the book, keep on going b/c I'm sure that like me, you will love how it all turns out in the end.
I also love that Lucy has given us 1.5 as well as just the first book. It's a shorter read and that extra bit helps to settle things down after the ending of book one. I'm not sure I could have waited patiently for more without that. Hell, I'm still not patiently waiting b/c I seriously love this book and these characters so much. Bravo to Lucy on knocking this bad boy out of the park and thank you for giving us such a refreshing read and unique new world to explore.
August 7, 2018
Heart of Tartarus is a gritty science fiction reverse harem full of daring action and emotional scenes. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I picked up this novel but it hooked me right from the beginning and I’m eagerly awaiting the release of book two.
Cass, or Cassandra, knows what it means to be a citizen of Tartarus, the city of exiles, criminals and gangsters, she’s no stranger to living it rough and only trusts one person in the whole universe. But when that person goes missing, Cass will do anything to find her. I liked Cass. She comes across as tough and a bit rough at times but is a rather vulnerable young woman who is intelligent and determined. The fact that Smoke has managed to convey both a strongness and vulnerability in one character so well is testament to her writing skills. The budding trust and relationship between Cass and the guys builds throughout the book and feels natural.
Smoke’s world building is brilliant, the words pull you right into this dystopian world of oppression and cruelty - Tartarus is not a place I’d want to visit that’s for sure. Her writing flows across the pages and the characters are diverse and layered. The ending had me choking up and I’m so glad that book 1.5 of the series was included at the end of the first book for, while it was an emotional roller coaster, it made it feel like Cass was beginning to experience the sunlight again.
This is a slow burn RH with a M/M and F/F undercurrents throughout the plot. There is not necessarily any trigger warnings but it does deal with some darker subjects, it is a dystopian world ruled by men after all. And, book one doesn’t necessarily give us a HEA but neither does it end on a cliffhanger. This is my second book by Smoke and I am blown away by her ability to create such strong and unique characters; I am looking forward to reading book two and seeing how the relationship between Cass and the guys develop further.
Cass, or Cassandra, knows what it means to be a citizen of Tartarus, the city of exiles, criminals and gangsters, she’s no stranger to living it rough and only trusts one person in the whole universe. But when that person goes missing, Cass will do anything to find her. I liked Cass. She comes across as tough and a bit rough at times but is a rather vulnerable young woman who is intelligent and determined. The fact that Smoke has managed to convey both a strongness and vulnerability in one character so well is testament to her writing skills. The budding trust and relationship between Cass and the guys builds throughout the book and feels natural.
Smoke’s world building is brilliant, the words pull you right into this dystopian world of oppression and cruelty - Tartarus is not a place I’d want to visit that’s for sure. Her writing flows across the pages and the characters are diverse and layered. The ending had me choking up and I’m so glad that book 1.5 of the series was included at the end of the first book for, while it was an emotional roller coaster, it made it feel like Cass was beginning to experience the sunlight again.
This is a slow burn RH with a M/M and F/F undercurrents throughout the plot. There is not necessarily any trigger warnings but it does deal with some darker subjects, it is a dystopian world ruled by men after all. And, book one doesn’t necessarily give us a HEA but neither does it end on a cliffhanger. This is my second book by Smoke and I am blown away by her ability to create such strong and unique characters; I am looking forward to reading book two and seeing how the relationship between Cass and the guys develop further.
June 26, 2018
Wow..I did not know what to really expect from this book but as soon as I started reading all my attention was truly captivated! This is so different and unique to all the books out at the moment written by a very talented author!! I inhaled this book..well book and a half...and I am now fully invested in Cass and her survival. There is so much emotion in this book, heartache, uncertainty, suspense and caring that I just wanted to keep reading even st the end of the book! Cass is so many different things, at time confident, at other times very uncertain of herself, it takes a long time for her to trust and she just makes you want her to get her guys and be happy. And the guys that start to become her friends and family...serious and the leader Noaz, fun Thayer, tough and gentle Aaron, the fighter and sweetest Levi and finally the unknown and quiet Haze! What a very different and interesting bunch of guys..I cannot wait to see how their relationships develop in future books!! This book really sets the scene for what is to come, it is slow burn but you can have hope for the future of Cass and her guys. Once again Lucy Smoke writes a truly exciting and captivating story that is highly recommended!!
June 5, 2021
*Contains some small spoilers, but important if you are considering reading.
I LOVED this book! Yes, at the beginning of the book the FMC is in a f/f relationship, but by the end of the first book you can see how the harem is starting to form and the FMC is no longer with her girlfriend. Eventually, this is going to be a five book series and clearly it is a slow burn. Also, two of the guys in the potential harem are into each other, this isn't something unique to this book in the RH genre. Those two guys also haven't addressed this with each other yet, and I thought the fact that the FMC was in a previous same-sex relationship helps explain why she's so willing to embrace theirs (even within the future harem) and help them come out to each other.
Anyways, I thought the story was intriguing and enjoyed the action. There is incredible world-building, unexpected twists and turns, and a great cast of characters. I especially liked that the FMC was badass and sassy. Plus, I appreciated the LGBT and grief themes. They really spoke to me and made me enjoy the story all the more!
I listened to this in audiobook and give the narrator a 4/5.
I LOVED this book! Yes, at the beginning of the book the FMC is in a f/f relationship, but by the end of the first book you can see how the harem is starting to form and the FMC is no longer with her girlfriend. Eventually, this is going to be a five book series and clearly it is a slow burn. Also, two of the guys in the potential harem are into each other, this isn't something unique to this book in the RH genre. Those two guys also haven't addressed this with each other yet, and I thought the fact that the FMC was in a previous same-sex relationship helps explain why she's so willing to embrace theirs (even within the future harem) and help them come out to each other.
Anyways, I thought the story was intriguing and enjoyed the action. There is incredible world-building, unexpected twists and turns, and a great cast of characters. I especially liked that the FMC was badass and sassy. Plus, I appreciated the LGBT and grief themes. They really spoke to me and made me enjoy the story all the more!
I listened to this in audiobook and give the narrator a 4/5.
June 29, 2018
Brutally beautiful
I can’t fully communicate how much I love this story. It’s perfectly imperfect. It’s dirty and harsh. Cassie is trying to find her best friend on Tartarus, a place so awful it is where all the criminals in the world are sent. When Cassie is abducted by 5 men after she introduces herself as her friend Kida, that’s when things really get interesting. It is a fast paced, slow burn story of love and survival.
This post apocalyptic love story is fraught with desperation, destruction and death. But like the Phoenix rises from the ashes, Cassie will too; with help from Noaz, Thayer, Aaron, Levi and Haze. And Vincent and Penny. She’s got a crew and she won’t stop fighting.
I can’t fully communicate how much I love this story. It’s perfectly imperfect. It’s dirty and harsh. Cassie is trying to find her best friend on Tartarus, a place so awful it is where all the criminals in the world are sent. When Cassie is abducted by 5 men after she introduces herself as her friend Kida, that’s when things really get interesting. It is a fast paced, slow burn story of love and survival.
This post apocalyptic love story is fraught with desperation, destruction and death. But like the Phoenix rises from the ashes, Cassie will too; with help from Noaz, Thayer, Aaron, Levi and Haze. And Vincent and Penny. She’s got a crew and she won’t stop fighting.
June 27, 2018
Loved this new world Lucy Smoke has created, i love a good dystopia. The book begins with Cass who is searching for her best friend, Kydia, and at the beginning of the book is pretending to be her. This leads Cass on an adventure where she becomes part of this team of HOT, SEXY MEN, who are also looking for Kydia. We learn small bits about these guys as Cass slowly allows herself to trust more then just her best friend. Loved seeing the relationships form. Especially 'hercules' and 'rocket' moments. Cant wait to see where this series goes.
This book is full of action from the first pages and what a journey it is.
This book is full of action from the first pages and what a journey it is.
June 27, 2018
This author never releases anything less than gold, and that holds true with this story. The world-building is my least favorite part of any story, but this book was different. The author blended the world-building and storyline together so well, that there was never a boring “omg, more tree descriptions” moment for me. Cass is a kickass heroine and I LOVE her guys. The author had the brilliant idea to incorporate book 1.5 within the same story and boy, am I glad she did. That definitely helped tide me over til book two. But still... when is the next one out? 😍
January 26, 2019
This is the only series by this author that I hadn't got around to reading yet so I finally decided to bite the bullet and download it (seeing as I finally had a spare slot on my KU) and bit am I so glad I did as I really enjoyed it. The book was not what I was expecting and I was pleasantly surprised. There were some definite surprises thrown in the story along the way which I wasn't expecting, but I love that when an author keeps us on our toes. I'm looking forward to downloading the second book in this series. Five stars for Heart of Tartarus from me.
June 28, 2018
The Sky Cities are fascinating!
Excellent new series by Lucy Smoke! The world building is phenomenal and I can’t wait to read about the other floating cities in future books. I really hope the characters journey to Earth’s surface at some point. Cassie and her guys are all interesting and complex characters and I look forward to reading more about their backstories in future books.
Excellent new series by Lucy Smoke! The world building is phenomenal and I can’t wait to read about the other floating cities in future books. I really hope the characters journey to Earth’s surface at some point. Cassie and her guys are all interesting and complex characters and I look forward to reading more about their backstories in future books.
July 27, 2018
A search for love
Cass's best friend, her sun, her universe, is missing. Looking for her is the most dangerous thing she could do, but she has to, despite promising not to.
She's going to need the help of 5 special men.
At the end of the day she must decide. Does she live or does she die?
This is a uniquely crafted story about fear, love, loss, grief and healing. I'm desperate to read the next one.
Cass's best friend, her sun, her universe, is missing. Looking for her is the most dangerous thing she could do, but she has to, despite promising not to.
She's going to need the help of 5 special men.
At the end of the day she must decide. Does she live or does she die?
This is a uniquely crafted story about fear, love, loss, grief and healing. I'm desperate to read the next one.
May 22, 2019
4.5
What a unique and interesting storyline. Author Lucy Smoke can build a world that the reader happily gets immersed and lost in. I thought the MFC was kickbutt with sass to boot. I loved the guys being who has to keep up. The characters are developed and well written even if I’m not sold on all of them but that more a personal thing than anything. This author is a brilliant writer in technique and otherwise. I’m very much looking forward to more.
What a unique and interesting storyline. Author Lucy Smoke can build a world that the reader happily gets immersed and lost in. I thought the MFC was kickbutt with sass to boot. I loved the guys being who has to keep up. The characters are developed and well written even if I’m not sold on all of them but that more a personal thing than anything. This author is a brilliant writer in technique and otherwise. I’m very much looking forward to more.
August 10, 2018
Earth is no longer habitable. Instead, floating cities hover above it. Tartarus is a crowded, dangerous city for rebels, exiles, and criminals. Cassie is a messenger. Rescued by her best friend Kida from a juvenile center in another city, Kida has taught Cassie how to survive on the streets. Now Kida has disappeared and Cassie is using her name to try to draw her out. Instead, she finds herself kidnapped by someone else looking for Kida. When the truth is revealed Cassie is offered a position on the team to locate and rescue Kida. The weeks ahead will bring danger, heartache, and possibly a new family into Cassie's life.
Heart of Tartarus is the first book in a new dystopian RH series. This is my favorite book of Lucy Smokes to date. So much incredible world-building, so many fantastic characters, so many twists and turns. I was immediately drawn in, couldn't put it down, and still want more, more, more. Cassie is a complicated MC. Part street rat, part brilliant young lady. She's fierce, yet vulnerable; closed-off, yet loving; all survivor. I adore her. Kida is like an older, harder version of Cassie missing that unnameable quality that makes Cassie stand out as a bit more special. The guys, Thayer, Levi, Aaron, Haze, and Noaz are all part criminal, part savior, all gorgeous. I liked the complexity of Cassie's relationship with each of them and how different her relationship was with each guy. I look forward to getting to know the guys more and watching their friendships deepen.
The story is solid. The Tanks are formidable opponents yet it seems that they are small enemies compared to future threats and the ultimate upcoming doom. The action was legitimate and woven into the story to make it very exciting. The city itself is a living, breathing entity and plays its own role. I look forward to visiting the other cities to learn their impact on the story.
This book includes 1.5 as well as the first book. It's a novella that continues after the destructive ending of book 1. The aftermath is painful and this part of the story addresses that and helps to bridge over the worst of it and bring the reader to a place of new beginning. I thought this was an excellent choice by the author. I am really excited for book 2. This RH looks to become one of my favorites.
Heart of Tartarus is the first book in a new dystopian RH series. This is my favorite book of Lucy Smokes to date. So much incredible world-building, so many fantastic characters, so many twists and turns. I was immediately drawn in, couldn't put it down, and still want more, more, more. Cassie is a complicated MC. Part street rat, part brilliant young lady. She's fierce, yet vulnerable; closed-off, yet loving; all survivor. I adore her. Kida is like an older, harder version of Cassie missing that unnameable quality that makes Cassie stand out as a bit more special. The guys, Thayer, Levi, Aaron, Haze, and Noaz are all part criminal, part savior, all gorgeous. I liked the complexity of Cassie's relationship with each of them and how different her relationship was with each guy. I look forward to getting to know the guys more and watching their friendships deepen.
The story is solid. The Tanks are formidable opponents yet it seems that they are small enemies compared to future threats and the ultimate upcoming doom. The action was legitimate and woven into the story to make it very exciting. The city itself is a living, breathing entity and plays its own role. I look forward to visiting the other cities to learn their impact on the story.
This book includes 1.5 as well as the first book. It's a novella that continues after the destructive ending of book 1. The aftermath is painful and this part of the story addresses that and helps to bridge over the worst of it and bring the reader to a place of new beginning. I thought this was an excellent choice by the author. I am really excited for book 2. This RH looks to become one of my favorites.
March 31, 2020
Pretty good stuff
I’ve wanted to read this book but kept putting it off cause not everyone can do these types of stories well and it not be so depressing you just want to curl up and cry. This was good balance for me. Sad stuff did happen. Good stuff did happen. There is a major crisis that needs to be figured out. Some interesting character building. Some nicely paced relationships are being built. The romance is different for each potential match. Again this is nicely done and not every author can do that. I don’t feel like any potential match isn’t getting his appropriate screen time which is a aspect I have seen some authors have trouble with. I also like how the little extra at the end so appropriate events happened before the next book. I’m happy I took the plunge. Look forward to the next book.
I’ve wanted to read this book but kept putting it off cause not everyone can do these types of stories well and it not be so depressing you just want to curl up and cry. This was good balance for me. Sad stuff did happen. Good stuff did happen. There is a major crisis that needs to be figured out. Some interesting character building. Some nicely paced relationships are being built. The romance is different for each potential match. Again this is nicely done and not every author can do that. I don’t feel like any potential match isn’t getting his appropriate screen time which is a aspect I have seen some authors have trouble with. I also like how the little extra at the end so appropriate events happened before the next book. I’m happy I took the plunge. Look forward to the next book.
July 5, 2018
Solid 4.5 stars
I really enjoyed this first book in the Sky Cities series from Lucy Smoke, and I’m really looking forward to continuing the series. There’s quite a roller coaster of emotions she takes us on, intrigue, adventure, humor, heartache & heartbreak, as well as an overwhelming sense of hope and new beginnings & second chances. This is a Reverse Harem romance (meaning our snarky and brave female main character has & ends up with multiple love interests #whychoose) with a few surprises along the way. All in all, I’d give this book 4.5 stars and recommend to others. I’ll absolutely be continuing with the series.
I really enjoyed this first book in the Sky Cities series from Lucy Smoke, and I’m really looking forward to continuing the series. There’s quite a roller coaster of emotions she takes us on, intrigue, adventure, humor, heartache & heartbreak, as well as an overwhelming sense of hope and new beginnings & second chances. This is a Reverse Harem romance (meaning our snarky and brave female main character has & ends up with multiple love interests #whychoose) with a few surprises along the way. All in all, I’d give this book 4.5 stars and recommend to others. I’ll absolutely be continuing with the series.
May 4, 2020
This is a really fun, quick, well-written and developed science fiction spearheaded by a funny, honest and empathic heroine named Cassie. She's witty, stubborn and knows how to take care of herself and the story is really more about learning how to rely on other people more than anything.
The foreshadowing placed throughout the book surrounding is particularly well-done as it's subtle enough that when everything is revealed it doesn't feel out of nowhere.
The foreshadowing placed throughout the book surrounding is particularly well-done as it's subtle enough that when everything is revealed it doesn't feel out of nowhere.
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