A Genre-Bending Mystery with Mythological Flair

Before diving into this review, I want to note that City of Smoke and Sea is an advanced reader copy (ARC), and the book will officially be released on April 1, 2025. If you’d like to grab a copy, check out Red Hen Press or visit your local bookstore or a major retailer.

Malia Marquez’s City of Smoke and Sea is a genre-blending novel that seamlessly weaves together crime, mystery, fantasy, and mythology. The story follows Queenie Rivers, a down-on-her-luck writer who, despite living with her grandmother, isn’t writing much of anything. As she recovers from a serious accident and tries to regain her footing, her grandmother helps her land a job at a local restaurant—one that may have ties to an unsavory character from her grandmother’s past. When Queenie accepts the position (and maybe a bit of hush money), she finds herself entangled in a murder mystery that unfolds in unexpected ways.

One of my favorite aspects of this book is its unpredictability. Just when you think the story is heading in a certain direction, it pivots, keeping you on edge. The characters are written in a way that challenges first impressions—you’re never entirely sure who to trust. Marquez also introduces elements of mythology and gods into the narrative, though these aspects remain relatively light compared to the mystery and crime elements.

If you primarily read mystery/thrillers and want to dip your toes into fantasy or mythology, this book is a great transition. The supernatural elements build gradually, becoming more prominent in the latter half of the novel. Conversely, if you’re a dedicated fantasy reader, the slow introduction of these elements might not be as immersive, but the engaging mystery still makes it a worthwhile read.

At just 169 pages, City of Smoke and Sea is a quick yet immersive read, packed with strong character development and world-building. The ending hints at the possibility of future stories within this world, and I’d be eager to see where Marquez takes it next.

Are you planning to read City of Smoke and Sea? Let’s discuss in the comments! If you have recommendations for other books that successfully blend multiple genres, I’d love to hear them.

Release Date: April 1, 2025
Format: Digital (ARC)
Platform: NetGalley