Title: City in Embers
Author: Stacey Marie Brown
First published February 4, 2015
458 pages
Rating: 4.11
Overview
In The Vanishing Year, Zoe Whittaker seemed to have it all: a wealthy, charming husband, a coveted spot in Manhattan’s social elite, and a luxurious lifestyle. But beneath the surface, Zoe is hiding a dangerous past that she thought was long buried.
As her secrets begin to resurface, Zoe finds herself in a race against time to uncover the truth and protect herself before it’s too late. With a gripping plot and a relatable yet mysterious heroine, The Vanishing Year is a must-read for fans of suspenseful thrillers.
Kate Moretti’s writing style will keep you on the edge of your seat, combining classic sophistication with a modern twist. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable novel from a rising star in the genre.
About the Author
Stacey Marie Brown has a soft spot for fictional bad boys and feisty heroines who don’t take nonsense from anyone. When she’s not immersed in a good book, she loves to explore new places, binge-watch her favorite TV shows, go hiking, write, dabble in design, and practice her archery skills.
Stacey considers herself a bit of a wanderer, having been fortunate enough to live and travel all around the globe.
Editoral Review
Stacey Marie Browns City in Embers is a thrilling addition to the young adult urban fantasy genre, published on February 4, 2015. Brown, a USA Today bestselling author, delivers an exciting and action-packed adventure, introducing us to a fascinating world where magic and darkness coexist, and danger lurks at every corner.
The story takes place in Ember Falls, a city devastated by supernatural forces, where Earth is on the brink of destruction. Monsters roam the streets, and chaos reigns, making survival a daily struggle for the remaining human population.
Our protagonist, Zoey Daniels, is a twenty-two-year-old barista who accidentally discovers that she is a magical being, a Deviant. With her newfound powers, Zoey sets out to fight the evil that threatens her world.
Browns writing style is engaging and fast-paced, drawing the reader into the story from the first page. The vividly described scenes and colorful characters add depth and intrigue to the plot, making for an immersive reading experience.
The plot structure is well-executed, with just the right amount of exposition and plot twists to keep the reader engaged. The main characters are well-developed, and we get to witness their growth and transformation throughout the story.
One of the strengths of City in Embers is the world-building. Brown creates a complex and believable universe, where mythical creatures and supernatural forces exist alongside modern-day society.
The attention to detail in the world-building adds richness and depth to the story, making it all the more engaging. However, the book is not without its flaws.
The pacing can sometimes feel uneven, with some parts feeling rushed while others drag on. The romance subplot feels a bit forced and underdeveloped, detracting from the overall plot.
Additionally, some of the minor characters could have been fleshed out more, adding more nuance to the story. Nonetheless, City in Embers is a thrilling and enjoyable read, perfect for fans of the urban fantasy genre.
It addresses themes of identity, acceptance, and perseverance, making it a relevant read in todays societal climate. It is reminiscent of works by Cassandra Clare and Sarah J.
Maas, with its fantastical world and intricate plot. Overall, I would give City in Embers a 3.5 out of 5.
Despite some minor flaws, it is an engaging and exciting read, and I would recommend it to fans of the genre. It is also a good book for those looking to escape reality and immerse themselves in a world of magic and adventure.
