“Smoke Season” is a gripping novel by Amy Hagstrom that unfolds against the backdrop of an Oregon wildfire and the tumultuous rapids of the Outlaw River. The story centers on themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the lengths one will go to protect loved ones in dire circumstances.

The narrative begins in rural Carbon, Oregon, where every wildfire season brings a thick haze of smoke. This particular summer, a single lightning strike ignites a blaze that threatens to engulf everything in its path. Kristina “True” Truitt, an experienced whitewater rafting guide, finds herself deeply concerned for her best friend, Melissa Bishop, who is bravely serving as a fire battalion chief on the front lines.

As the fire spreads and jumps firebreaks, True learns that Melissa and her estranged husband, Sam, are involved in a perilous side gig: an illegal money drop along the banks of the Outlaw River. This risky endeavor is their only hope to secure medical care for their vulnerable daughter. The stakes are high as they navigate not only the dangers posed by the wildfire but also the scrutiny of federal authorities.

Throughout the story, True, Mel, and Sam face increasingly difficult choices as they grapple with what risks are worth taking to save their loved ones. As flames close in around them, they must confront their fears and decide what they are willing to sacrifice.

The novel explores profound themes such as love, loyalty, and moral dilemmas faced during crises. It highlights how natural disasters can reveal both human resilience and vulnerability while emphasizing family bonds and friendships under pressure.

The characters are well-crafted and relatable; each undergoes significant growth throughout the narrative. Their struggles resonate with readers as they deal with personal challenges amid external chaos.

“Smoke Season” is not just a tale of survival against nature’s fury but also a poignant exploration of human relationships tested by adversity.

This is the 2nd book I’ve read from one of my favorite authors! Beautifully written book. I loved the story, and was educated on what life is like living with dangerous forest fires, and the smoke. Huge appreciation for firefighters and first responders that risk their lives to fight these fires. The theme is strength and family first, and what a mom/dad/neighbor/sister/bff will do for each other. The sacrifices that were made by Mel, Sam and True were touching. I was on the edge of my seat reading about what would happen next. Through everything, the human spirit and love conquers all. Read this book!

Smoke Season is a highly gripping and exciting novel, taking us and its characters on an emotional, edge-of-your-seat journey through a haze of smoke, uncertain love, duty and danger. I couldn't put it down.

The characters in Smoke Season were really easy to root for and to like. All the POV characters are just people trying their best to go through the day and to do right by the people they love, but they're still human, nuanced and flawed.

The pacing was pretty good, the story never dragged or stalled.

I enjoyed the person with a medical condition meets natural disaster aspect of the story since it's an aspect that often gets overlooked in disaster survival stories.

There is queer and trans representation in the book but it's really secondary to the story itself which I liked.

I received an eARC of this book, many thanks to NetGalley and Lake Uninon Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book.

I enjoyed the fast pace and the character development in the story. Each chapter flowed seamlessly into the next, keeping me on the edge of my seat. The characters were well-crafted, each one growing and evolving in a way that felt real and compelling.

The theme of the story was undeniably sad, touching on deep and emotional subjects. Despite this, I couldn't put the book down. The sadness woven throughout the narrative added a layer of depth that made the story even more engaging. It wasn't just the plot that kept me hooked; it was also the way the characters dealt with their struggles and grew from their experiences.

I found myself emotionally invested in their journeys, rooting for them through their hardships and celebrating their victories. The blend of fast-paced action and thoughtful character development made the story a memorable read. It struck a perfect balance, making me feel deeply while still keeping me eagerly turning the pages.

As the walls of fire close in, True, Mel, and Sam wrestle with one terrible choice after another. It’s time to decide what risks are worth taking and what they are willing to let burn to ashes. I loved her book "the wild between us" and was eager to read Smoke season. For me, it was very fast paced. The characters were developed and well rounded. I couldn't put this one down! Thank you Netgalley for my ARC copy.

What a cool story! I enjoyed this book. It was very entertaining and engaging. Pick it up on publication day.