Book Review: Smoke in the Sun by Renee Ahdieh

Renee Ahdieh introduces readers to feudal Japan, a fierce protagonist inspired by Mulan, a reluctant hero hiding from his destiny, and the idea of defining your own strength and self-worth in her YA historical fantasy—Flame in the Mist. The first book in the duology establishes a world rich in Japanese history and culture and pulls readers into a thrilling story of secret identities, epic battles, a sizzling romance, and a wild adventure through the lush landscape of ancient Japan. The sequel, Smoke in the Sun, expands on world building, adds the points of view of supporting characters, and beautifully wraps up Mariko’s story. Before you dive into this review, be sure to read my thoughts on Flame in the Mist.

Smoke in the Sun picks up mere days after the showdown in Jukai Forest between Mariko, The Black Clan, Kenshin, and Prince Raiden. Okami is in prison. The Black Clan has gone into hiding. And Mariko is once again donning a familiar mask—dutiful, naïve bride to Prince Raiden—to save the man she loves and to uncover the truth behind the assassination attempt on her life. She quickly learns that secrets, lies, manipulations, and politics rule the imperial court. She’ll have to enter this dangerous game to keep herself alive and find a way to free Okami.

• Ahdieh’s trademark descriptive writing style continues to shine in Smoke in the Sun. This time she gives readers a closer look at the imperial city of Inako and its habitants. From the grandiose imperial court, to the majestic gardens, and to the elegant tea houses, Ahdieh’s attention to detailed world building brings a luxurious Japan to life. Through Mariko, we meet a wide array of citizens – servants, soldiers, nobility, and royalty. Each interaction adds another dimension to the world Mariko lives in from customs to behavior norms to prevalent beliefs of that time.
• I love how Mariko grows from a quietly defiant girl to an empowered, brave, and resilient young woman. Unlike Mariko’s ill-fated journey from book one, she now comes to Heian Castle on her terms with a clear purpose in mind. Some of my favorite scenes in Smoke in the Sun are those of Mariko being tested in the Empress’ court and scheming to get what she wants. She’s cunning in her strategy, and fearless in her execution. By the end, Mariko achieves what she desires the most: agency over her own life.
• A surprising, but welcome addition to the sequel is the increased page time the supporting characters receive. We’re treated to an intimate look at the hearts and minds of Okami, Yumi, Ranmaru, Kenshin, and Raiden. Reading from Okami’s point of view was by far my favorite of the bunch. We learn more about his backstory and why he is so hell-bent on denying his destiny. His emotional journey to self-acceptance is just as important as Mariko’s. It culminates in a heart-breaking emotional moment that I’m so glad we get to read from his perspective. There is one more character who gets their own point of view for a few scenes, but it’s too good to spoil!

• The magic system is explained a bit more this time, but it seems out of place with the rest of the established world. To be honest, the story could have done without it.
• While I am very happy with the resolution to Mariko and Okami’s story, I wish we could have gotten a more definitive answer as to what some of the other supporting characters, like Kenshin and Yumi, are up to in the epilogue. It wasn’t made clear in the story what they wanted their endgame to be. If perhaps that had been discussed, then the reader could draw their own conclusion. However, this wasn’t the case and we’re just left wondering what happens to them.

Final thoughts: Smoke in the Sun is a satisfying end to the duology. It will leave you breathless with its writing, make you swoon over the romantic tension, and rejoice at the message of female empowerment.