A review by shanaepraystoo
Smoke Signals by Danielle Brooks

lighthearted relaxing fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

3.25

When I started Smoke Signals (Fire Company 143 Book 1), I was all in on the story because it starts off so strong, specifically the first 30% had me sucked in and I was really enjoying the story. Somewhere around the 55-70% mark, the story took a turn for me - mostly because of the FMC Nina. Talk about an irritating character. I just didn't find her likable. Even her friend Joni was sick of her sh*t lol. 

I really kept reading for the MMC Denzel. He was open, vulnerable, honest, and dreamy - just what you want in a book bae. His character really shines. Unfortunately, the book isn't that long, so there's very little character development with Denzel and readers only get a glimpse of Thandie. I would've appreciated a little more angst in the story but it would've turned this instalove summer fling romance into something totally different: a true slow burn. 

Anyway, I enjoyed the story of Nina and Denzel mostly and I recommend Smoke Signals to anyone who enjoys low angst, relaxing, light hearted, fast-paced romance stories. I'm excited to read book 2 and hope there's more info about Joni and Tevin plus Deacon and Vanessa...the author really leaves us hanging with the last couple.  
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