Smoke: The Breadcrumbs Series Book Five - A Deep Dive Review

by Ashantay Keys (Author)

Updated at: 19/02/2025

In Ashantay Keys's Smoke: The Breadcrumbs Series Book Five, love faces its ultimate test. Smoke Coalman's devotion to his girlfriend, Embry Foster, is unwavering, even as her failing kidneys threaten her life. Two transplants have failed, dialysis is relentless, and family testing yields no compatible donors. Faced with seemingly insurmountable odds, Smoke refuses to give up. This gripping installment explores the depths of commitment and the lengths one will go to for the person they love. Will Smoke's fierce determination be enough to find a solution, or will fate intervene, leaving him with an unbearable loss? Prepare for an emotional journey of love, loss, and the unwavering strength of the human spirit.

4.7 / 126 ratings

Review Smoke

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about Smoke: The Breadcrumbs Series Book Five! This book absolutely stole my heart. From the very first page, I was completely captivated by Smoke and Embry's unwavering love for each other. It's the kind of love that makes you believe in happily ever afters, even when the odds are stacked against them. Their story isn't just a romance; it's a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the incredible lengths people will go to for those they cherish.

The book expertly portrays the emotional rollercoaster of Embry's ongoing health struggles. You feel her pain, her frustrations, her fears – and you root for her every step of the way. Ashantay Keys masterfully weaves in the stress and anxieties of the entire family, showing how a medical crisis impacts everyone involved. It's not just about Smoke's devotion; it's about the collective strength and support needed to navigate such a difficult situation. And it’s handled with such sensitivity and realism. You don't feel like you're reading a melodramatic fiction; it's raw and honest.

Smoke himself is an unforgettable character. His determination to save Embry is breathtaking. He doesn't just love her; he fights for her with every fiber of his being. His actions are powerful, deeply moving, and leave you with a profound sense of admiration and respect. The author doesn't shy away from the sacrifices he makes and the emotional toll it takes on him. His journey is equally important as Embry’s. You see a man fully embracing his role as a partner, a protector, and a lover. The unconditional love they share is palpable throughout the book.

What truly sets this book apart, beyond the compelling characters and plot, is its emotional impact. It's a true page-turner, but not in a superficial, suspense-driven way. The tension comes from the raw emotion, from the genuine fear and hope interwoven into every scene. I found myself constantly holding my breath, praying for a positive outcome, feeling every twist and turn in their journey right alongside them. There were moments that brought me to tears, but they were tears of both sorrow and ultimately, overwhelming joy.

This isn't just a love story; it's a story about resilience, about hope, and about the extraordinary power of the human heart. It's also a beautiful portrayal of the importance of organ donation, raising awareness for a critical issue in a subtle yet poignant way. A reader’s testimonial about relating this to their own kidney donation experience resonated deeply, highlighting the book’s ability to touch lives on a deeply personal level. The ending is both satisfying and hopeful, leaving you with a warmth in your heart and a renewed faith in the power of love to conquer even the most daunting obstacles. If you’re looking for a book that will stay with you long after you finish the last page, Smoke is it. I wholeheartedly recommend this book, and the entire series, to anyone looking for a deeply moving and unforgettable reading experience.