Welcome to the City of Sin, where casino families reign, gangs infest the streets … and secrets hide in every shadow.
Enne Salta was raised as a proper young lady, and no lady would willingly visit New Reynes, the so-called City of Sin. But when her mother goes missing, Enne must leave her finishing school — and her reputation — behind to follow her mother’s trail to the city where no one survives uncorrupted.
Frightened and alone, Enne has only one lead: the name Levi Glaisyer. Unfortunately, Levi is not the gentleman she expected — he’s a street lord and a con man. Levi is also only one payment away from cleaning up a rapidly unraveling investment scam, so he doesn’t have time to investigate a woman leading a dangerous double life. Enne’s offer of compensation, however, could be the solution to all his problems.
Their search for clues leads them through glamorous casinos, illicit cabarets and into the clutches of a ruthless Mafia donna. As Enne unearths an impossible secret about her past, Levi’s enemies catch up to them, ensnaring him in a vicious execution game where the players always lose. To save him, Enne will need to surrender herself to the city …
And she’ll need to play.
Ace of Shades Review
After hearing about Ace of Shades, I’ve been excited to read it. I really thought it was going to be a book I love. While it was an enjoyable read, it’s definitely not a favourite.
Ace of Shades follows Enne Salta as she travels to New Reynes, also known as the City of Sin, to find her mother. During this trip, she’s introduced to gangs, casinos and clues to a mysterious story she’s about to uncover.
Enne is an interesting main character. She’s in a finishing school so she is the definition of prim and proper. Since she doesn’t belong in the City of Sin, Levi is an enjoyable character because he shows her the ropes.
My issue with these characters is that I didn’t grow attached to them. I love a character driven story but I need to love them to thoroughly enjoy the adventure. But, this didn’t happen for me.
The overall plot of the story is enjoyable. I did enjoy the storyline and the adventure but I didn’t love it. It’s fun for the moment but it didn’t completely sweep me off my feet.
But the most disappointing thing to me in this book is the romance. I know this isn’t a romance story, but it’s an added element. It just feels so forced and is underwhelming. To be quite honest, I probably would have enjoyed it more without the addition of romance.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read but I wouldn’t consider it a favourite. I am curious to pick up the second book at some point. I’m hoping I enjoy the sequel more than this one!
Rating: ★★★☆☆
Favourite Quote
People do not play this game to win, my dear. They play this game not to lose.
About the Author
Amanda Foody has always considered imagination to be our best attempt at magic. After spending her childhood longing to attend Hogwarts, she now loves to write about immersive settings and characters grappling with insurmountable destinies. Currently, she works as a tax accountant in Philadelphia, PA, surrounded by her many siblings and many books. She is the author of two published novels, Daughter of the Burning City and Ace of Shades.
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Glad you finally got to read it! Hopefully you enjoy the sequel more! ☺️
Thanks Brittany! Me too!! 💖
I really need to pick this book up and read it! I’ve heard so many good things about it. Glad you enjoyed it, fingers crossed you love the second book more!!! 😀
Definitely give it a try – it’s an interesting concept! Thanks, me too. I definitely will be checking it out! 💖