Other Words for Smoke

This captivating tale explores love, magic, and dark secrets in a haunted house, revealing the complexities of youth and desire in Other Words for Smoke.

In Other Words for Smoke, the narrative unfolds around the enigmatic house at the end of the lane, which mysteriously burned down, leaving behind unanswered questions about the fate of its inhabitants, Rita Frost and her teenage ward, Bevan. The townspeople are left in the dark, but two siblings, Mae and Rossa, hold the key to the truth. They spent two unforgettable summers in that house, experiencing a blend of magic and darkness that would forever alter their lives. The story captures the essence of youthful curiosity and the complexities of growing up, as Mae navigates her feelings for Bevan amidst the eerie happenings in the house.

The atmosphere is charged with intrigue as Mae and Rossa uncover the secrets hidden behind the wallpaper, where a dark force named Sweet James resides. This entity captivates Bevan with promises of neon magic and escape, drawing her deeper into a world that blurs the lines between reality and illusion. As Mae grapples with her feelings for Bevan, the stakes rise, and the allure of Sweet James becomes a dangerous temptation that threatens to consume them all.

Other Words for Smoke is a beautifully written tale that weaves together themes of love, loss, and the haunting nature of memories. It invites readers to explore the depths of human emotion and the shadows that linger in the corners of our lives, reminding us that sometimes, what lies beneath the surface is far more powerful than we can imagine.