Smokeless Fire (Fire Spirits, #1)

Dec 23, 2011 Kay rated it 1 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Recommended to Kay by: the synopsis and pretty cover... boo.

Shelves: quite-the-romantic, teens-tweens-and-ya, gawdawful, urban-fantasy

1 very generous star.

This book got a lot of five stars and enthusiastic commendation. I delved in expecting to like the book. I mean, it's about Jinn—something that I haven't read about yet! So why such a low rating? What is wrong with me?

I know, I’m sorry. But I was so very annoyed with this book that only the catharsis of expelling my frustration into this review could give me some peace.

There were so many problems with this book. From the editing, the sluggish plot, lack of credible myth bu...more

like 27 likes · see review

Mar 24, 2013 Ruth**Off With Its Head!** rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: uf, magic, dual-pov, death, angst

First off this has been on my kindle for over a year! WTH I am such an idiot!

I have to say it took me a good bit to get into this but once I did I was totally hooked.

The world building is what confused me the most. The concept was a new interesting one for me but trying to work out who everyone was & why they were had my head spinning for a little bit and stopped me from getting totally lost in it.

But I persevered and I am so glad I did. As with all of Young's character's the female leads ar...more

like 4 likes · see review

Dec 04, 2011 Hillary Hunt rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: ya, fem-fantasy

I took a gamble on this 99cents kindle read because the concept sounded unique. YA novels about vampires, faeries, and werewolves are a dime a dozen. But Jinn? I didn't even know what a Jinn was. (They're basically like genies; "supernatural creatures in Arab folklore and Islamic teachings that occupy a parallel world to that of mankind." -from wikipedia.)

So yeah, that seemed like a really fresh concept to me, and I was excited to delve into some world building that I haven't seen done anywhere...more

like 5 likes · see review

Dec 27, 2011 Shelly Crane rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: best-books

Oh, boy. I want to feel sorry for Charlie. People do some pretty stupid things when they hurt like he does. But I'm thinking something sinister is going on here with him...
I really enjoyed the book.
I'm really looking forward to book two in hopes that Ari kicks Charlie out of her heart and makes Jai realize that they'd be super, duper hot together.
I can't wait for there to be some real love and action between Jai and Ari ;) I enjoyed the flow of Samantha's writing and will definitely pick up an...more

like 7 likes · see review

Oct 28, 2011 Ana rated it 5 of 5 stars

Smokeless Fire a Fire Spirits novel
Samantha Young
5 Stars

The cover of Smokeless Fire is just gorgeous. Ari is beautiful and exactly the way I pictured her while ready Smokeless Fire. I have been a fan of Samantha Young since she released the Tale of Lunarmorte series and I will say that I will be a fan forever! I have read all of her books and I just can’t get enough of her captivating books. Samantha has a way to bring a new light to old mythology and mix it with today’s modern age.

Ari’s father...more Smokeless Fire a Fire Spirits novel
Samantha Young
5 Stars

The cover of Smokeless Fire is just gorgeous. Ari is beautiful and exactly the way I pictured her while ready Smokeless Fire. I have been a fan of Samantha Young since she released the Tale of Lunarmorte series and I will say that I will be a fan forever! I have read all of her books and I just can’t get enough of her captivating books. Samantha has a way to bring a new light to old mythology and mix it with today’s modern age.

Ari’s father is always away on business trips and since Ari’s mother dropped her off on her father’s doorsteps when she was just born, 18 year old Ari has been pretty much raising herself since she became a teenager. Soon she will graduate from high school and will have to go to college – something she is seriously having doubts about. Her best friend, Charlie, who she has known since she was a little girl, is going through a rough time with the guilt of his little brother’s death. Then one day she goes to sleep and wakes up in this strange place called Mount Qaf in the house of a man who claims to be her real father. The only thing is that she isn’t dreaming and the man in front of her IS her father and also known as The White King. Ari is lost and confused when she returns back home after telling The White King, her father that she didn’t want anything to do with him. That’s when Jai comes into the picture to protect her from her “father’s plan. Jai is hired, by Ari’s uncle, The Red King to protect Ari and follow her wherever she goes. Ari will discover the true plan her evil father has planned for her and she will find out that she is stronger than she thinks. Jai will help her awaken her powers and teach her how to use them in order to protect herself from the war her father has started.

Smokeless Fire is the beginning to an incredible series surely to capture everyone’s hearts. The characters are unique and easy to fall in love with. I hate to say that I am team Jai all the way! I totally recommend reading Smokeless Fire and any book from Samantha Young. She is an incredible author with the gift of creating wonderful stories and memorable character that will be with you always.

Blog: http://www.onceuponatwilight.com/2011...
(less)

like 4 likes · see review

Apr 26, 2012 Belle (Little Paper Rose) rated it 2 of 5 stars

- Review taken from my YA book blog Little Paper Rose

*I will alert for start/end of spoilers.

Before ‘Smokeless Fire’ I had no knowledge about the Jinn mythology so this was all extremely new to me. Getting to learn about the story and the history of the Jinn very much from scratch has been interesting as well as exhausting. I experienced the first half of ’Smokeless Fire’ to be jam-packed with information and explanation. At some point I felt like I was practically studying about Jinn, and that...more

like 2 likes · see review

May 08, 2013 Kezia Goodman rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: fantasy-teenage

I am familiar with Samantha Young's work, so I wasn't surprise that this series is turning out to be just as good as the Lunamorte one.

I like this new concept of Jin, not just the genie in a bottle like in Aladdin, but the real Jinn from folklore, the concepts are well written and developed, and the story plot draws you In instantly.

I instantly like Ari and Jai together, Charlie's character is irritating, and I'm finally glad that Ari sees what Rachael was saying about him all along. Granted he...more

like 1 like · see review

Sep 26, 2012 MåїÐÂ»-(¯`v´¯)-» rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: action-romance-hot-stuff, book-boyfriends, books-of-2012, fantasy-romance-mystery-the-whole, fave-books-of-2012, favorite-series, favorites, own-it-have-read-it, young-adult

MY RATING: 4 Hearts

****I would like to thank Samantha Young for providing an e-copy of the book, and giving me an opportunity to review it! :D****

Usually when you hear “YA paranormal romance book”, the first things that come to mind are - vampires, werewolves, witches, warlocks, angels and demons. But hardly ever do readers come across Jinns. Yes, you heard me...JINNS. I don’t know what I was expecting when reading Smokeless Fire, but it definitely wasn’t a world so brilliantly created by Ms. Yo...more

MY RATING: 4 Hearts

****I would like to thank Samantha Young for providing an e-copy of the book, and giving me an opportunity to review it! :D****

Usually when you hear “YA paranormal romance book”, the first things that come to mind are - vampires, werewolves, witches, warlocks, angels and demons. But hardly ever do readers come across Jinns. Yes, you heard me...JINNS. I don’t know what I was expecting when reading Smokeless Fire, but it definitely wasn’t a world so brilliantly created by Ms. Young. The original concept was one of the strongest qualities of this book - and I found myself completely absorbed by it. A wonderful start to a new series - Smokeless Fire will leave you pleasantly surprised from the first to the very last page.

It’s always refreshing to read about something new, especially in the YA paranormal genre, where more than often the topics are generally “similar”. By introducing Jinns to the YA scene, Ms. Young’s inventiveness is much appreciated. The idea of this whole other world where Jinns exist was simply fascinating. But what’s even more surprising is how much the characters were so easy to relate with, despite having that paranormal aspect present. The portraying of these issues through the character’s emotions was very well written - and it was something I looked forward to while reading this book.

As the protagonist - I thought Ari was lacking that “it” factor. I liked her - and on more than one occasion found myself relating to her and sympathizing for her. But, I believe she still needs a final push into being a great heroine. Although, Ari hasn’t fully captured my attention, I still found her to my liking. No matter who or what she was up against, she never gave up. She remained strong and never got deterred, which is an admirable quality to have in a character - and one I liked best about Ari. Another thing that really struck out to me was when Ari finds out about her Jinn heritage - it takes her a while to come to terms with it. Ms. Young didn’t rush through that issue, which made it realistic and an effective aspect of the story.

Then of course, what’s a fantasy story without a love interest? Ever since she was young, Ari believed that she was in love with Charlie, her best friend. Even after Charlie loses his brother in an accident, and cuts of all contact with her, she still “loves” him. That is until she finds unexpected growing feelings for her new bodyguard, Jai. The constant bickering and humor between them is a bright side to the story, which always had me smiling. Jai is, to put it in YA terms, the bad boy with the soft soul. There was nothing I didn’t like about him. He was fun, unique and someone you would love to be friends with. The romance between him and Ari was achingly sweet. It’s a gradual build up, that just barely skims the tipping point - so there is a lot to expect from the next book. But, it was perfectly paced and a joy to read about.

One part of the book, that really got on my nerves was the relationship between Ari and Charlie, the best friend. Honestly speaking, I didn’t understand them. After losing his brother, Charlie cuts Ari out of his life and turns to drugs. Throughout the story Charlie repeatedly hurts Ari, but she is still infatuated with him. She wants the old Charlie back, so she sticks to him. Where loyalty is an admirable quality, in this case it was just irritating and frustrating beyond belief. But, thankfully, Ms. Young turned the story around just in time, by bringing Jai into the picture. I really hope the sequel presents this relationship a lot differently.

Overall, Smokeless Fire proved to be not only adventurous and action-packed but also a refreshing and original read. The story captures your attention from the very start and it will have you flying through the pages. I am looking forward to the sequel to this because Ms. Young’s beautifully crafted world is not one I intend to miss out on.

This Review is also posted at: Literary Love Affair(less)

like 6 likes · see review

Dec 16, 2011 Wendy Lohr rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: jinn

This review can also be found on my blog: http://escapeintofiction.blogspot.com...

Plot:

Although Ari's life seems like the typical teenage girl's life, she soon gets swept into a whole other world she never believed existed: the world of the Jinn. As she discovers her true heritage, Ari must come to terms with who she really is and what it means for her. But nothing is ever simple and as secrets unfold, she finds herself in the middle of a power struggle that she wants nothing to do with. Unfortu...more This review can also be found on my blog: http://escapeintofiction.blogspot.com...

Plot:

Although Ari's life seems like the typical teenage girl's life, she soon gets swept into a whole other world she never believed existed: the world of the Jinn. As she discovers her true heritage, Ari must come to terms with who she really is and what it means for her. But nothing is ever simple and as secrets unfold, she finds herself in the middle of a power struggle that she wants nothing to do with. Unfortunately, she can't avoid her destiny forever and reluctantly begins to delve deeper into the world of the Jinn with the help of her Jinn Guardian, Jai, and her human best friend, Charlie.

Characters:

Ari is eighteen and has just graduated high school. She's scared about her future as she truly doesn't know what she wants to do with herself. But she's afraid to back out of the course that her father has set for her because she doesn't want to disappoint him. She has a lot of insecurities, especially where feeling loved and appreciated are concerned. She is extremely loyal to her best friend, Charlie, even though he constantly pushes her away as he spirals further and further into drugs, alcohol, and depression. When Jai Bitar enters her life, she suddenly finds that she is infuriated, yet intrigued by this handsome yet distant Jinn Guardian.

Jai Bitar is the best Jinn Guardian around and has proved himself time and again when guarding various clients. He has never been fully accepted into his tribe and throws himself mercilessly into his Guardian work to prove himself to others, especially to his father, Luca. When he receives the new assignment from the Red King to guard Ari, he finds that she is not what he was expecting and is surprised by the feelings she elicits in him. But he is determined to keep her at arms length and will stop at nothing to protect her.

World-Building:

The world that the author builds in this book is one of intrigue, danger, magic, and illusion, everything that one might think of where Jinn are concerned. The author portrays Jinn as having very little emotion and a stark sense of decor, although she does provide a few exceptions with regards to the Red King and the Sultan of Jinn. The method of travel (flying and Peripatos) are intriguing concepts and the fact that the Jinn can conjure anything they desire gives new meaning to "money is no object". And I found the creation of various races of Jinn to be a great addition, allowing for various scenes to unfold in unique settings.

Overall Impression:

Overall, this was an amazing book to escape into. I loved how the author wrote from both Ari's and Jai's perspectives, so it gave the reader more to chew on and understand. The interactions between Ari and Jai were classic and left me wanting more. And I loved how the author taught us, as the reader, what Jinn are and their history while teaching Ari at the same time. It made me feel even more connected with Ari and I can't wait to see how she will handle the destiny that has been designed for her. The ending left me anxious and desperate for the next book, so I could continue my exploration of the world of Jinn. So, definitely check this book out...it is well worth the read!
(less)

like 3 likes · see review

Jul 13, 2012 Nicole rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: absolutely-loved-it, want-to-read-again

This is one of those books where I'm finding it difficult to write a review. Not because I didn't like it but because I liked it so much. I will try my best to write a meaningful review. When all I want to write is: This novel is amazing go out and get it quickly. The main character Ari is about to turn 18 and has no idea what she wants to do with her life. I found it easy to identify with her since I felt the same way right after high school. Eventually the choice is made for Ari when she find...more This is one of those books where I'm finding it difficult to write a review. Not because I didn't like it but because I liked it so much. I will try my best to write a meaningful review. When all I want to write is: This novel is amazing go out and get it quickly. The main character Ari is about to turn 18 and has no idea what she wants to do with her life. I found it easy to identify with her since I felt the same way right after high school. Eventually the choice is made for Ari when she finds out she is Jinn. The drastic changes in her life freak her out but she's strong enough to deal with the changes and move forward. She learns how to use her Jinn abilities and is eager to protect the people she loves. One thing I didn't like about Ari was the way that she dealt with Charlie. He has changed drastically and is really into drugs. He hurts her time and time again and yet she keeps forgiving him and trying to get the old Charlie back. It was annoying, I wanted to yell at her and tell her to move on, but it also shows that she is unwilling to abandon someone that she cares about so deeply.

Along with learning she is Jinn, Ari gets a new bodyguard named Jai. What can I say about him, he's tall very hot with olive skin and bright green eyes. Jai can also be sarcastic, arrogant, and tries to keep everyone at a distance. I enjoyed the the few chapters that were from Jai's POV. It allowed me to not only see how he really felt about guarding Ari but about Ari herself. Jai has a rare ability thanks to his mixed blood that makes him very good at what he does.

I loved the originality of this novel. I have never read about Jinn before, have you? Samantha Young is able to create worlds that suck you in and make you want more. There is plenty of action and just enough romance to keep the reader turning pages as quickly as possible to see what is going to happen next. This isn't the first novel of hers that I completely devoured. The idea of the 7 Kings of the Jinn and their father Azazil was new and it was easy to follow along as things were explained. Plus there were tons of new creatures in Smokeless Fire and I loved learning about all of them. What fun would it be if there was not some kind of trouble. The Kings are at war and Ari is right in the middle of all the danger.(less)

like 4 likes · see review

Feb 23, 2013 Serena Myles rated it 5 of 5 stars

Ari was just going through the normal routine for a teenager at graduation. Worrying about what College to go to and what she really wanted to do with her life. Then her life got turned upside down when her friend invited a Genie to her 18th Birthday party. Who only turned out to be real freakin' genie!!
Swept into a world of Jinn Kings, magic and love. College is the least of Ari's worries.

As i have mentioned many times before, the first books i read by Samantha Young were her Tale of Lunamorte...more Ari was just going through the normal routine for a teenager at graduation. Worrying about what College to go to and what she really wanted to do with her life. Then her life got turned upside down when her friend invited a Genie to her 18th Birthday party. Who only turned out to be real freakin' genie!!
Swept into a world of Jinn Kings, magic and love. College is the least of Ari's worries.

As i have mentioned many times before, the first books i read by Samantha Young were her Tale of Lunamorte series (they are awesome btw) and ever since then i have practically been stalking her other books.
However, when i came across this one and some of her other books, i read the blurb and thought they weren't my kind of thing. Genies just didn't seem appealing to me (probably because all that kept popping into my head was Aladdin) but after reading the other books i wasn't originally keen on (and turned out loving them) i decided i would defo give this a try.
Turns out. Genies are my thing. Or perhaps its just Jai ;-)

The thing i enjoy most about Samantha Young's books, is that her writing style is so flawless. When Sam is describing the back story to the reader, she makes sure to give you just enough information to understand it and not pile loads of facts at you. I never get lost or confused (and believe me, it's easy for that to happen) when reading one of Sam's books like i have done in others where there has just been too much explained at once.
Ari was a great character and easy to relate to. (hell i would have freaked more than she did, but damn she did better than i would've at keep myself off Jai)
The relationship between Jai and Ari was believable and very well written. The right things happening just at the right moments.
Jai tries to keep his job of protecting her purely professional. But she isn't what he expected in the least, and after spending 24/7 with her, its hard not to let his feelings become more personal.
Ari thought she had at least her love life sorted - to an extent. She was in love with her best friend Charlie, they had been inseparable as kids, but then a tragic accident changed Charlie from her loving, caring friend into someone who would rather get wasted and high than graduate high school.
Just as Ari is realizing her feelings for Jai, Charlie decides to clean up his attitude and express his feeling towards Ari.
Like she needed anymore chaos in her life.

A great enjoyable read, moving swiftly onto the second book.

5/5
(less)

like 1 like · see review

Feb 02, 2013 Rebecca rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: People who liked: SoulScreamers and The Iron Fey series

Recommended to Rebecca by: Free kindle edition

4.5 stars
This book reminded me alot of the soulscreamers series (best series ever) anyway, I really really liked it. This book is not your average "your birthday has finally arrived and poof time for us to tell you the truth about who you are." No this book is more like "Tracking, tracking, tracking. TARGET LOCATED" It just happens to be on her birthday. Anyway, book started out meh but then it went WOAH and then I was like WHERE'S THE SECOND BOOK?! I really like the main character Ari because s...more

like 1 like · see review

Jan 30, 2013 Mel Alzate rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: leido, young-adult, urban-fantasy, paranormal-romance-teen, serie

En este primer libro de la saga Fire spirits, Ari una chica aparentemente normal se encuentra con que nada es lo que parece ser; cuando descubre quien es verdaderamente, sabe que deberá enfrentarse a situaciones tan peligrosas por lo que Jai su guardián y Charlie su mejor amigo harán lo que este en sus manos para protegerla, esta novela esta envuelta en misterio y la verdad es que hasta el momento no he logrado descifrar si de verdad hay alguien aparte de Jai, que quiera ayudar a Ari o simplemen...more En este primer libro de la saga Fire spirits, Ari una chica aparentemente normal se encuentra con que nada es lo que parece ser; cuando descubre quien es verdaderamente, sabe que deberá enfrentarse a situaciones tan peligrosas por lo que Jai su guardián y Charlie su mejor amigo harán lo que este en sus manos para protegerla, esta novela esta envuelta en misterio y la verdad es que hasta el momento no he logrado descifrar si de verdad hay alguien aparte de Jai, que quiera ayudar a Ari o simplemente quiera usarla para su propios fines; el libro es muy interesante y la historia tiene el toque justo de fantasía, romanticismo, aventura y misterio.

Pero entrando un poco a los personajes realmente no entendí la obsesión de Ari con Charlie, bueno tal vez si pero cada vez que lo defendía o se derretía por su "hermosa sonrisa" (No es que no crea que Charlie es sexy, lo es!) me daban ganas de golpearla, fuerte; esto la hizo parecer insegura y dependiente cuando de chicos se trata y fue lo que evito que sintiera una conexión inmediata con su personaje, sin embargo, Ari no dejo de ser una chica fuerte, decidida y valiente siendo capaz de hacer lo necesario para salvar a los que mas quería por lo que en esta primera parte su personaje no me fue indiferente, me gusto, aunque de verdad espero que mejore en la secuela.

Con Charlie, bueno que decir de este chico "roto" en extremo, al principio sentí mucha pena por su situación, es increíble lo que el dolor y la culpa pueden hacer con una persona y a pesar de que existen muchos caminos para afrontar lo que a él le paso, realmente lo entendí, pero luego cuando descubre la verdad, se convierte en este chico que trata de encontrar un solución y vengarse sin importarle quien pueda salir herido en el proceso incluso si es el mismo y a pesar de que lo que hace fue super IDIOTA, creo que su personaje aporta lo necesario para que Smockeless fire aparte de tener una trama de fantasía tenga un sentido de realismo al mismo tiempo.

De Jai no tengo mas que decir que me encantó, su manera de ser sarcástica y fría cuando esta con Ari aunque se este muriendo por ser dulce con ella, hace que sea el tipo de chico que es capaz de afrontar su errores y proteger a sus seres queridos con fiereza así se cause dolor, por eso "los chicos perfectos solo existen en los libros".

:3(less)

like 1 like · see review

Jan 09, 2013 Linds Morris rated it 3 of 5 stars

Three stars and two minds!

I want to start of with saying that this book was actually really intriguing. The storyline is really interesting and I've never read a book about Jinn before so it was fun. The over all plot was amazing and I really did have a hard time putting it down because I had to know what was going to happen.

That said, I really disliked the characters. Ari was at least tolerable enough that I didn't want to kill her myself, at least until she was in a life or death situation, th...more Three stars and two minds!

I want to start of with saying that this book was actually really intriguing. The storyline is really interesting and I've never read a book about Jinn before so it was fun. The over all plot was amazing and I really did have a hard time putting it down because I had to know what was going to happen.

That said, I really disliked the characters. Ari was at least tolerable enough that I didn't want to kill her myself, at least until she was in a life or death situation, then she's more like Hermione instead of Harry Potter. Completely useless! Then there's Jai, who is really immature for a 23 year old. And I say that knowing full well that grown men fight with their brothers, mine are all older than Jai and they fight constantly. But outside of his family is a different story. Charlie is just... Ugh! But those three, at least I understand why they act the way they do. Which means I can actually like them part of the time. Ari's friends, however, they're just jerks. Who keeps friends like that around? Her dad was the worst, because he wasn't a teenager and he was acting more immature than Ari! I do like Azazil, the red king is cool too (though his PLL humming was not so much funny as it was wtf) and I think the white king is good too, but I think they could use with more character development and hope that they are given that chance in book two.

My other problem with this book was all the errors. I tried not to notice them. I tried hard! And I was able to look past them, because I'm not that anal retentive, but they were there and noticeable. One even got me laughing and my husband wanted in on the joke.

To conclude, this book does deserve three stars, because it's actually pretty cool. I love the imagery and I mean genies, hello! You all remember watching Aladdin as kids, don't tell me you didn't think the genie was awesome! So don't get discouraged about it, if you like magic and think that Jinn might be cool, I'd at least give it a try! It's quite an adventure!(less)

like · see review

Dec 21, 2012 Nadine Dehaibi rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: couldn-t-put-down, favorites, insanely-hot-guys, kick-ass-heroines, marry-me, tears, to-re-read, witty-commentary, jinn

When I first saw this book, I had my doubts. A book solely based around the Jinn? New, and a change for me, which made me wary. However, Samantha Young did not disappoint me one bit.

It took me a while to get into this book, mainly because of that asshat Charlie. Excuse the profanity, but I dislike this boy with such a passion. If Jai wasn't there, I would have jumped off a cliff. I understand that you're grieving, Charlie, but COME ON. Amazing Ari has been chasing after your undeserving ass for...more

like 1 like · see review

Oct 22, 2012 Victoria Limbert rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: adventure, dark-brooding-male, demons, fantasy, fave-author, great-characters, humour, love, magic, paranormal, reviewed, romance, supernatural, teen, urban-fantasy, will-read-again, young-adult

The book starts off by introducing Ari and her friends and the teenage drama surrounding every day life...with a tiny twist. Her old best friend has been blaming himself for his little brothers death and has fallen in to a black pit of drinking, drugs and sex with easy young girls. Ari is absolutely devastated at what this is doing to him and, with her love for him, she vows to bring him back from the edge before it is too late.

Already a great plot/story right?

Add another guy, Jai, a sexy, brood...more The book starts off by introducing Ari and her friends and the teenage drama surrounding every day life...with a tiny twist. Her old best friend has been blaming himself for his little brothers death and has fallen in to a black pit of drinking, drugs and sex with easy young girls. Ari is absolutely devastated at what this is doing to him and, with her love for him, she vows to bring him back from the edge before it is too late.

Already a great plot/story right?

Add another guy, Jai, a sexy, brooding Jinn with a hot body, compassionate personality and great skills with magic and combat. Jai, though Ari doesnt understand why, becomes her guardian to protect her from the other Jinn and those who would try to harm her...because our Ari has a deeper secret that even she is unaware of! He confuses her, intrigues her and leaves her baffled by her new feelings for a boy who isnt Charlie.

I picked up this book and refused to put it down until 2 am in the morning, even knowing I had to be up early for work the next morning (boy did I pay for that-but it was totally worth it!)

The characters are fantastically written, as well as the plot lines and the sub plots and the twists and turns, the backstabbing and betrayal, the double crossing and cruelty. It all kept me rivited to my kindle for hours and hours and hours. Ari is beautiful and brave and caring and strong. Charlie, though we are led to think of him as a bit of a loser, definately tugs on the heart strings when his troubles are revealed, though we are kept guessing all the way through about his intentions when he suddenly snaps out of his downer. And then there is Jai, my favourite character in the book and one I could not stop drooling over. He is a dark, brooding male with a troubled past, a father he hates and brothers who are...well...knobs. But underneath that he is strong and passionate and, my personal opinion, more on Ari's level than Charlie could ever hope to be.

The story is paced well, keeping you in suspense but allowing humour to seep in and relieve the tension every so often. I connected with Ari from the very begining and literally bit my lip every time she was in danger, hoping Jai would come to the rescue....but Ari is no damsel she has her own set of skills...powerful ones.

Then came the ending! A great cliffhanger and lots more about the characters to explore. I have a feeling this trilogy is going to leave you guessing until the very end. It is going to be full of ups and downs and twists and turns and I am going to love each one...In fact, the moment I finished this book, i bought the second.

This is a must read for everyone and anyone!(less)

like 1 like · see review

Oct 18, 2012 Claudia rated it 2 of 5 stars

While I wanted to like this, because the whole plot is an interesting concept, when I actually read it I was pretty underwhelmed. The problem was the author's portrayal of the main character. I simply did not like Ari. It started when Ari described herself as 'knowing she was pretty' and 'knew she could look good no matter what'. It's that sort of thing that just peeves me off. Charlie was a character who I felt sympathy for but he just kind of lacked personality. Then his behaviour at the end -...more

like 3 likes · see review

Oct 05, 2012 Steph 'The Book Tweet' rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: bored-out-of-my-brain, not-really-going-anywhere, slow-as, main-character-pisses-me-off, dnf

I've never really done a negative review before so this is a first... I was bored out of my brain... The plot was slow and it had no real significance .. I started reading it and I though that it was tolerable and that's it.. Nothing spectacular. I usually read the first chapter of a book before I buy it because I believe that no matter how much the story line suck as long as the author can write it well and entertaining with the choice of words I might enjoy it a bit, so I keep reading. It his...more

like · see review

Sep 22, 2012 Deanna rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-with-language, free-ebook, books-id-read-again, paranormal, gay-material

Took me a while to really get into this book. There was just so much foreign terminology that I always find difficult to grasp in books. Like the word Jinn. It's like a magical being/genie? or whatever (See! I am still confused). But once I got over it, I really enjoyed the book. A very interesting plot line as Ari discovers who she really is and struggles to hold on to relationships that are falling apart.

Okay let's talk about some of the characters:
- Derek. Ari's father and a total meany. He...more Took me a while to really get into this book. There was just so much foreign terminology that I always find difficult to grasp in books. Like the word Jinn. It's like a magical being/genie? or whatever (See! I am still confused). But once I got over it, I really enjoyed the book. A very interesting plot line as Ari discovers who she really is and struggles to hold on to relationships that are falling apart.

Okay let's talk about some of the characters:
- Derek. Ari's father and a total meany. He is supposedly a loving father who has just been absent from Ari's life for a while now, too obsessed with work to spend any time with her. But to me her dad is really a big meany. (I know I already said that, but it's true). You can't just ignore your daughter and give her the silent treatment forever just because you're too proud to admit that you've made mistakes as a parent. My heart was breaking for Ari throughout the entire book because all she wanted from her father was for him to love her and show her he loved her, but instead he just kept hurting her.
- Charlie. Ari's best friend from childhood. His little brother died two years ago and he's been tortured with the guilt of his death, using alcohol and drugs to escape the pain and grief. Ari's been sadly pining over him (she's madly in love with him and doesn't want to give up on him) and she desperately tries to help him through his grief. But not even Ari can save him. Only when an opportunity arises itself to Charlie does he sober up.
- Jai. Ari's hired guardian. He's had a hard and lonely life just like Ari but he's channeled all his hardship to become one of the best at his job. He knows how to be tough and not share anything about his life or show his emotions, but as he spends more time with Ari he finds himself opening up to her little by little.

I admired Ari for her commitment to her friendship with Charlie and not wanting to abandon him like even his own parents had. But just wanted her to realize that Charlie was not the guy for her. I didn't want her to give up on him, I just wanted her to only be a friend to him. Plus, I really really want her to be with Jai because he is the sweetest thing and they just totally belong together. I mean seriously, he may be one of my hugest book-guy crushes ever. I think he may be number three on the list (which is a major success in case you thought three was far from one; I'm sorry but there are a lot of super hot guys in books out there), but he is definitely not far from second place at all.

Ugh, my thoughts are all a mess on this review but I just can't seem to focus. Just know that this book is totally worth reading just for the relationship between Ari and Jai. He seriously is adorable!(less)

like 1 like · see review

Jul 09, 2012 Misti rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: fantasy, romance, spiritual-or-physical-journey

This is a "Oh Honey, NO" book. You know the type: you're reading and the main character is latched onto some sorry excuse for a guy and thinking she can reform him into something better and you think to her as loud as you can, "Oh Honey, NO. He's just going to be a jerkface to you until you leave him and he suddenly realizes what he's missing and then he's going to be a terrible person and guilt you into coming back to him. No."

This book was a never-ending string of "Oh Honey, No" for me. The wo...more

like 1 like · see review

Jun 28, 2012 Say rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: june-2012-reads, favorites

Again this is my first take on the particular author, Samantha Young and I'm glad that I came across this particular series. I've read a few reviews regarding this one and some say it was rather slow at the beginning but I guess it was just right. I mean it was not boring or dragging or anything, but it was a good slow start. And the female MC ARI, she kinda grew on me. I liked her. She was clueless of her origin but not stupid but rather smart and mature in accepting who she really is. The two...more

like 1 like · see review

Mar 29, 2012 Kenya Wright rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2-99-and-lower, a-little-romance, jinn, more-tension-than-sex, new-type-of-magic, other-supernaturals, ya, book-babies

First of all my expectations were low.

Why?

Because I was dumb enough to read some of the lower star'ed reviews. Thankfully, I was smart enough to check it out for myself.

This book is FUCKING AWESOME!

Sorry for cursing, but if you havn't read this yet.... then WHAT THE FUCK?

I loved it and frankly if you don't love it then you just aren't as cool as me... and that is okay... only a certain amount of people can be cool as me and walk this planet... (I'm so humble.)

Regardless...

THINGS I LOVED:

-New su...more

like 8 likes · see review

Mar 14, 2012 Nawnee rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: authors-i-m-addicted-to, books-i-couldn-t-put-down

This was the first book I've read by Samantha Young I think this was the best first book to pick. It's a very unique story line, with some very compelling characters. I fell in love with the main character right away. The author has made such a believable cast of characters that it was easy to get sucked into the turmoil and craziness that's happening around them. I enjoyed the conflict and inner turmoil that the main character goes through was so well written I felt all of her ups and downs ri...more

like 1 like · see review

Feb 08, 2012 Rebecca rated it 3 of 5 stars

Samantha Young's first book in the Fire Spirits series was a fairly solid start. I would actually give it 3.5 stars out of 5 but I didn't want to give it a 4 because I don't quite think it deserved that, even though the originality of using Jinn was pretty cool.

Pros
- I don't think I'm ever read a story about the Jinn before, and I enjoyed the set up of Ari's father wanting to use her in the war.
- Jai was a really interesting character, he was mean but not so mean that you didn't enjoy reading a...more

like · see review

Jan 03, 2012 Caity rated it 3 of 5 stars

Smokeless Fire is an good preview-sorta-thing to a promising series.
That being said, it still reads like a preview to me. Likke it was mainly a setup for future books to come, and that doesn't sit well with me. I want my books to have resolutions, not precursor ending-to-beginnings to upcoming novels.
I thought the main character, Ari, was strong and had every right to be chronically depressed -though she wasn't- considering she was really just left to strive on her own without real support fro...more

like · see review

Dec 19, 2011 Emily Ward rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: fantasy, kindle, ya, self-published, unique-fantasy, favorite-authors

Wow! Amazon showed me this book my recommendations, and this lovely cover caught my eye. The blurb was awesome, the sample snagged me, so I bought it. . .and finished it. . .all in one day! Man, I love being on break!

Ari is getting ready to graduate, but she has no idea what she wants to do with her life. She's currently worrying about her best friend (who she's in love with) Charlie, who has sunk into a pot and booze stupor since his brother died two years ago, and getting ready for her 18th b...more Wow! Amazon showed me this book my recommendations, and this lovely cover caught my eye. The blurb was awesome, the sample snagged me, so I bought it. . .and finished it. . .all in one day! Man, I love being on break!

Ari is getting ready to graduate, but she has no idea what she wants to do with her life. She's currently worrying about her best friend (who she's in love with) Charlie, who has sunk into a pot and booze stupor since his brother died two years ago, and getting ready for her 18th birthday party. She makes a wish at the party to a gimmick genie, but she really has no idea what she's getting herself into. She wakes up in another world and finds out about her true parentage - her parents are Jinn - and she's been assigned a smoking hot guardian to protect her from The White King, her true father.

Wow, wow, wow. I know already said that, but I don't think four times is enough. This story was fascinating. At first, I wasn't sure what to think about Ari since she wanted Charlie so badly. I thought she was kind of pathetic, like her friends did, but I kept reading. I felt sorry for her because she seemed lonely. Her dad was gone all the time, and she really had no one to talk to. When she suddenly wakes up in this other world and meets her true father. . .well, things just didn't slow down after that!

Samantha Young has created an amazing world with very unique world building. The Jinn have many different forms, and the magic system is really neat.

I really liked Jai. I'm usually turned off by sarcastic, arrogant love interests like him, but I think there was more to him than a typical Jace or. . .okay, I don't read a lot of PNR, so Jace is pretty much the only one I can name :P BUT I liked Jai. I think Samantha did a good job at showing his age. He doesn't act like a 17 year old, and I'm glad she didn't make him that young. He's much more mature than Charlie (groan) and it showed. I really liked the chemistry between Jai and Ari and I was hoping for something to happen. . .but I won't tell if anything did or not.

There were some things, writing style, that rubbed me the wrong way. Mainly mechanics stuff. Like mixing up you're/your? Come on. Or there were a couple sentences I had to reread where an extra comma could have helped. That's mainly the reason it's 4 instead of 5 and because I think Ari could have been a tad more dynamic. I'm not sure how, I just think. . .I'm not sure. I did like her quite a bit. Even in the beginning, I just thought she was kind of naive. I still feel bad for her, too, considering all she's been through. I hope she doesn't let things get to her. I feel like she needs someone she can actually rely on, but she's kind of this island and it's sad.

I'm excited to see what else is coming up in the rest of the series. Obviously, big, epic things considering what's revealed in this book. And the second one comes out in February, yay! I will definitely buy the sequel.(less)

like 1 like · see review

Dec 02, 2011 Wendy Owens rated it 5 of 5 stars

How exciting to read a book that is about something not so mainstream. I have actually never read a book about Genies so this was a completely new experience for me. Samantha’s way of describing the Jinn word is spectacular. I felt like I could see it and almost touch it. It is also really fun to read a story about such mischievous creatures!

I read a lot of books where I have trouble getting attached to characters but that was not the case with this one! Ari is smart, beautiful, dramatic and als...more

like 2 likes · see review

Nov 02, 2011 Once Upon rated it 5 of 5 stars

The cover of Smokeless Fire is just gorgeous. Ari is beautiful and exactly the way I pictured her while ready Smokeless Fire. I have been a fan of Samantha Young since she released the Tale of Lunarmorte series and I will say that I will be a fan forever! I have read all of her books and I just can’t get enough of her captivating books. Samantha has a way to bring a new light to old mythology and mix it with today’s modern age.

Ari’s father is always away on business trips and since Ari’s mother...more The cover of Smokeless Fire is just gorgeous. Ari is beautiful and exactly the way I pictured her while ready Smokeless Fire. I have been a fan of Samantha Young since she released the Tale of Lunarmorte series and I will say that I will be a fan forever! I have read all of her books and I just can’t get enough of her captivating books. Samantha has a way to bring a new light to old mythology and mix it with today’s modern age.

Ari’s father is always away on business trips and since Ari’s mother dropped her off on her father’s doorsteps when she was just born, 18 year old Ari has been pretty much raising herself since she became a teenager. Soon she will graduate from high school and will have to go to college – something she is seriously having doubts about. Her best friend, Charlie, who she has known since she was a little girl, is going through a rough time with the guilt of his little brother’s death. Then one day she goes to sleep and wakes up in this strange place called Mount Qaf in the house of a man who claims to be her real father. The only thing is that she isn’t dreaming and the man in front of her IS her father and also known as The White King. Ari is lost and confused when she returns back home after telling The White King, her father that she didn’t want anything to do with him. That’s when Jai comes into the picture to protect her from her “father’s plan. Jai is hired, by Ari’s uncle, The Red King to protect Ari and follow her wherever she goes. Ari will discover the true plan her evil father has planned for her and she will find out that she is stronger than she thinks. Jai will help her awaken her powers and teach her how to use them in order to protect herself from the war her father has started.

Smokeless Fire is the beginning to an incredible series surely to capture everyone’s hearts. The characters are unique and easy to fall in love with. I hate to say that I am team Jai all the way! I totally recommend reading Smokeless Fire and any book from Samantha Young. She is an incredible author with the gift of creating wonderful stories and memorable character that will be with you always.

review link: http://www.onceuponatwilight.com/2011...(less)

like 4 likes · see review

Oct 26, 2011 Moonlight Gleam rated it 5 of 5 stars

Never having known her mother, her father always away on business, and her best friend Charlie growing more distant since the death of his brother, Ari Johnson doesn’t know how more she can take.

Ari just wishes that she could be normal, but she soon finds out that she’s anything but that. On her eighteenth birthday, Ari discovers dark hidden secrets that have long been kept away from her.

Jinn are extremely powerful creatures with magical abilities and who deeply enjoy being at the center of chao...more Never having known her mother, her father always away on business, and her best friend Charlie growing more distant since the death of his brother, Ari Johnson doesn’t know how more she can take.

Ari just wishes that she could be normal, but she soon finds out that she’s anything but that. On her eighteenth birthday, Ari discovers dark hidden secrets that have long been kept away from her.

Jinn are extremely powerful creatures with magical abilities and who deeply enjoy being at the center of chaos. When Ari discovers that she’s a Jinn, her already complicated life turns even more upside-down, putting everyone around her grave danger…

The whole concept of Jinn (Genies) in Smokeless Fire definitely stood out and made it such a wonderful and enjoying read. As a lover of the paranormal, the unique elements presented in the story were very exciting to read and had me flipping through the pages all in one sitting. I have to admit that I don’t usually finish reading a book in just one sitting so that alone says a lot!

I loved all the characters presented in Smokeless Fire, namely Jai, Ari, and Charlie, in that order. Behind the tough act, Jai is very caring (even if he doesn’t want anyone to know that, especially Ari). There are similarities between Jai and Ari that I won’t go much into detail, but I do believe that they make these two characters perfect for each other. I am hoping to see more chemistry develop between Jai and Ari in the next installment! Ari is a strong character, and definitely dramatic at times, but she is very easy to relate to. I did feel very sympathetic with Ari and Charlie, Ari’s whole life was a lie, and Charlie is going through a rough time trying to deal with the loss of his brother, which all in all puts a strain on their friendship.

I am also a big fan of love triangles and the one presented in Smokeless Fire is no exception. Action packed throughout and leading to a cliffhanger ending will leave readers wanting more!

I cannot believe that I have not read Samantha Young’s work before reading this novel. Samantha Young is a very talented author who captures her readers with the details of this enchanting world presented in Smokeless Fire.

Smokeless Fire is the first installment in Samantha Young’s Fire Spirit series, and I can definitely say that I cannot wait to read the next installment!

I recommend Smokeless Fire to Young Adult readers.

5/5 Must Read! Highly Recommended!(less)

like 7 likes · see review

Oct 23, 2011 Melissa rated it 5 of 5 stars

Samantha Young seriously has an amazing gift with writing. Her ability to mix real mythology with her own creativity is fantastic. She hasn't written a book that I haven't loved and Smokeless Fire did not disappoint.

Where to begin, oh where to begin....

First off, let me start with that the world of Jinn (aka Genies) is freaking awesome. Her ability to describe the kings and their world with such extravagant minutiae is astounding. I literally re-read several parts of the description to make sur...more Samantha Young seriously has an amazing gift with writing. Her ability to mix real mythology with her own creativity is fantastic. She hasn't written a book that I haven't loved and Smokeless Fire did not disappoint.

Where to begin, oh where to begin....

First off, let me start with that the world of Jinn (aka Genies) is freaking awesome. Her ability to describe the kings and their world with such extravagant minutiae is astounding. I literally re-read several parts of the description to make sure my mind was grasping the detail and envisioning things the way Samantha had when she wrote the book.

Secondly, the main characters are freaking addictive. Ari is this dramatic, understated beauty, that is completely and utterly alone. She is basically starving for love and attention. Charlie who used to be the one and only light in Ari's life is now the foundation of her loneliness and despair. And then you have Jai. Jai is also aboard the lonely train, but he chooses to make the most of things by being a bad-ass guardian, full of confidence, poise and sarcasm. When you put all three of them together you get a fantastic love-triangle and personally I am pulling for Jai. Not that I wasn't all over Charlie for the first 60 pages, but I lost interest once Ari caught him doing the unspeakable with someone who was as inconsequential as a speck of dust.

Needless to say this book offers a lot of possibilities and is completely unpredictable* which I love. Its simply fantastic. And when Jai turns into a Great Dane that Ari so aptly names Hamlet you can't help but appreciate Samantha's humor, even in the small things.

I think the part that intrigues me most is basically what is revealed about Ari and her background/powers. You know that saying "With great power comes great responsibility" I can't help but think how true this statement is especially regarding Ari. I am curious to see what trials she faces and what mistakes she may or not make when being faced with having to use said power.

Oh Samantha.... I am so glad I found your books. You seriously are one of favorite authors!

*unpredictable - seriously thought that I was gonna get some Jai/Ari action. Now I am just impatiently intrigued with how that might unfold in book 2 and 3.

(less)

like 3 likes · see review

title link	preview: Smokeless Fire
avg rating	preview: Smokeless Fire Goodreads rating: 4.06 (3321 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12407853-smokeless-fire?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1329391930l/12407853.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12407853-smokeless-fire?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]Smokeless Fire by Samantha Young[/url]

Smokeless Fire (Fire Spirits #1)

Friend Reviews

Lists with This Book

Community Reviews

new topic
Discuss This Book

combine
Other Editions (2)

Videos About This Book

Genres

Readers also enjoyed similar books

About Samantha Young

Books by Samantha Young

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website

Trivia About Smokeless Fire

Quotes from Smokeless Fire