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Aja
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Smoke (The Enigma Series Book 1) Kindle Edition

by Aja (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 384 ratings

Mystery, crime, and grit surrounded his family, often bringing power-hungry enemies right to his doorstep. Never one to back down from any opposition, he often stood victorious. But this new threat is something different and not at all one he is prepared for until an old love comes to save him.

Elijah Lewis aka "Smoke" has to decide what to do with the gift of knowledge he's received. Does he deliver more pain to the people responsible for trying to take him out, or does he take well-meaning advice and get out of this line of work? For people like him, there were only so many places he could go and the top two were: to jail or to hell.

The Enigma Series is a new crime romance series by Aja. Visit ajathewriter.com to sign up for her newsletter for more updates.

NOTE: The ENIGMA and The SOULMATES series are tied together. You aren't required to read them both, but it will provide insight on recurring characters and themes.

Visit ajathewriter.com for more information on this and Aja's other series.

Yes, this series has a lot of profanity. It's intentional because it's realistic for these characters. No, it's not all I write. Please enjoy my other series for less gritty and violent experiences. Thank you!

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  1. Book 1 of 5
    The Enigma Series
  2. Print length
    252 pages
  3. Language
    English
  4. Publication date
    July 15, 2022
  5. File size
    2.4 MB
  6. Page Flip
    Enabled
  7. Word Wise
    Enabled
  8. Enhanced typesetting
    Enabled
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There are 5 books in this series.

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From the Publisher

He had money and power
But not love.
Quote

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Aja is an award-winning, nationally bestselling author of passionate women's fiction and romance. Readers experience realistic, passionate, and soulful interactions with her work. She is inspired by soulful music and sensual art and uses them to help craft her stories. Aja is the recipient of multiple awards, including BRAB's Beverly Jenkins Author of The Year Award for 2020. When she's not being a wife and mother, you can find her looking for a spot on the beach to watch the sunrise over the remarkable waves.

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B099W9YFBD
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ She Loves Words Publishing LLC (July 15, 2022)
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ July 15, 2022
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 2.4 MB
  • Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 252 pages
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 384 ratings

About the author

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Aja

Aja

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When it comes to writing passionate Black love that jumps off the page and into readers’ hearts, Aja’s pen is a leader in the game. To date, she’s written and self-published over 30 books that offer an escape into Black love stories that center sensual, sexy, and erotic experiences. The winner of BRAB's 2020 Beverly Jenkins Author of The Year and 2022 Brenda Jackson Romance of The Year awards uses her life experience and persuasive storytelling talent to construct characters and situations that showcase the best Black love can be and offer. In the pages of her books, you’ll find relatable characters that seduce you with their intense chemistry that Aja seamlessly blends into soul-stirring romances.

The Pittsburgh native is a full-time writer with the mind and patience that allows her to maintain a life of constant study. Life is her biggest teacher. Through self-study and persistent observation of others, Aja finds the human thread that connects us all. That relatability is a reoccurring tenet of her award-winning books. Time spent reading any of her narratives is underscored by deep feelings of love and connection because love isn’t just her brand; it’s who she is. Black love advocacy is the central theme on every page she writes because Aja believes Black love is shaped and defined by Black people’s many trials and tribulations. Her Black-on-Black characters love the way they do, not because of what they’ve endured, but in spite of it.

Aja doesn’t just write about love; she lives it every day. She’s familiar with the passion, intensity, and sensuality that readers yearn for, and that’s why her books leave a powerful, lasting mark on readers’ minds. To stay updated on the latest reads from her expansive, decorated catalog, join her mailing list:

https://bit.ly/Signup4Aja

Website: www.ajathewriter.com

Instagram:@ajathewriter

Twitter: @AjaTheWriter

FB Fan Page:@ajathewriterbooks

Customer reviews

4.4 out of 5 stars
384 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers enjoyed the book's engaging plot and drama. They found the characters likable and relatable, with a strong alpha male character. The content included plenty of smoke and fire, which readers appreciated. The writing style was described as great and the narrators did a good job. Readers appreciated the mature age difference between the characters.

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ReadabilityStorylineSmoke contentCharacter developmentWriting styleAge rangeStrengthChemistry between characters
29 customers mention "Readability"29 positive0 negative

Customers find the book engaging and captivating from start to finish. They appreciate the well-crafted storyline that combines love, mystery, and thrills. Readers are looking forward to the sequel, which will provide answers to some questions.

"...HOWEVER, Ioved this book and want more. Moving on to the next book shortly!" Read more

"...🤔 So I’ll just say it’s a good read , writing is good , the plot is good , For me ,when I’m reading a series , it’s almost like bing..." Read more

"...The grit, the honesty between the main characters, the research, the ‘gangsta’ action, the sensual vibe between Aaliyah & Elijah, the plot and hella..." Read more

"Aja’s uncanny ability to weave, love, mystery and thrills is absolute PERFECTION!!!!..." Read more

20 customers mention "Storyline"20 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the storyline. They find the plot engaging, with suspense and drama. The storytelling is poetic and stellar. The book is described as a romantic read about love, loss, passion, and violence.

"Okay Smoke!! I really enjoyed the suspense and also the romance / spice...." Read more

"...So I’ll just say it’s a good read , writing is good , the plot is good , For me ,when I’m reading a series , it’s almost like bing watching Netflix..." Read more

"...characters, the research, the ‘gangsta’ action, the sensual vibe between Aaliyah & Elijah, the plot and hella sexy link up (!!)..." Read more

"Aja’s uncanny ability to weave, love, mystery and thrills is absolute PERFECTION!!!!..." Read more

9 customers mention "Smoke content"9 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the book's content. They find the story engaging and mention that the author brings the smoke and fire to the pages.

"Okay Smoke!! I really enjoyed the suspense and also the romance / spice...." Read more

"...there's definitely fire, and Ms. Aja incinerated the pages. I was so intrigued by this man and his family...." Read more

"...I loved OG Smoke, he had just enough of street and thug to spice up the read." Read more

"...The overall storyline, great. The characters, awesome. Smoke, sexy, strong, protective, all that. Love this style of writing a romantic who done it...." Read more

8 customers mention "Character development"8 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the likable and honest characters with their infamous personalities. They appreciate the author's choice to bring back characters from previous books.

"...I loved everything about this story. The grit, the honesty between the main characters, the research, the ‘gangsta’ action, the sensual vibe between..." Read more

"...Did I mention that Smoke is about that life. The characters were likable and sexy. Good plot, perfect setup for the next book...." Read more

"I completely enjoyed Smoke's honest character and his evolution into the man he didn't think he could ever become...." Read more

"This is one of the best books I have read. I love the characters, Smoke, Zora, and all the children. I am sad Smoke lost his friend Jimmy...." Read more

8 customers mention "Writing style"8 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the writing style and story. They appreciate the narrators' work and the author's prolific words.

"...🤔 So I’ll just say it’s a good read , writing is good , the plot is good , For me ,when I’m reading a series , it’s almost like bing..." Read more

"I was excited about this release and the author delivered...." Read more

"...Excitement and suspense are on the rise. This story was well written to the point that you will be reading it over and over again. I did🤗🤗!!!..." Read more

"*audiobook* the narrators did a great job with this book. I loved the plot...." Read more

7 customers mention "Age range"7 positive0 negative

Customers like the age range. They find the story about mature people and real issues. The age difference is wonderful with both characters being true adults. Readers appreciate the drama and suspense.

"...I love that this story involves sho nuff grown folks and the drama and suspense were on point. The chemistry between Aaliyah and Elijah was fiery!..." Read more

"...I thought the age difference was wonderful with both characters being true adults. Overall, I give this story 4.5 stars." Read more

"Elijah and Aaliyah were unexpected. This was a older man younger woman trope...." Read more

"...His past comes to share wisdom and insights about his future. A chance encounter will bring a new opportunity...." Read more

5 customers mention "Strength"5 positive0 negative

Customers find the book's protagonist strong and protective. They describe him as a strong alpha male with a soft spot for those he loves. The book is gritty and dark, but also mentions the character is fearless and in charge.

"...This is a different kind of story from Aja. It’s gritty, dark and hella sexy. The Enigma Series is sure to forge its own path. Looking forward to it." Read more

"I love a strong alpha male with a soft spot for the people he loves. That includes Elijah aka Smoke. I enjoyed Smoke and Aaliyah’s story." Read more

"Yeah..he can get it. Love a black man that can be hard and still be vulnerable...." Read more

"...He is fearless, in charge, plays zero games, alpha male. He is getting older...." Read more

4 customers mention "Chemistry between characters"4 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the chemistry between the characters. They find the relationship unexpected and enjoy Smoke and Aaliyah's story.

"...The chemistry between Aaliyah and Elijah was fiery! I appreciate Zora and how she looked out for Elijah with no bitter or malice...." Read more

"...That includes Elijah aka Smoke. I enjoyed Smoke and Aaliyah’s story." Read more

"Elijah and Aaliyah were unexpected. This was a older man younger woman trope...." Read more

"...I love everything about Elijah and Aaliyah. I'm highly anticipating the other books in the series...." Read more

Dark romantic suspense with older MCs!
4 out of 5 stars
Dark romantic suspense with older MCs!
Smoke launches Aja’s Enigma series which is a spin-off of her Soulmates series. I haven’t read that (though I really want to now!) and don’t feel like that hindered my enjoyment of Smoke at all.Dark romantic suspense with older MCs! Along with two of his grown children, Elijah “Smoke” Lewis (60) is running a successful empire. He hasn’t been as fortunate in the romance department. While working to uncover an influx of drugs in his territory, he meets Aaliyah (43) – an undercover reporter investigating the death of her foster sister.I love the world Aja created here. There’s so much depth and detail, presented in a compelling way. I feel like I know Elijah and was completely smitten despite his dubious moral code. There’s virtually no angst between him & Aaliyah, all of the suspense comes from other people and an unsolved mystery.While instalove isn’t usually my favorite it totally worked for me here because these two are mature enough to know themselves and what they need from a partner. And they were fire!The secondary characters were just as dynamic. Especially his children, Eli & Sarai. While this book completely covers the arc for Elijah & Aaliyah’s romance to HFN, there’s definitely an ongoing mystery that will weave through the series. I can’t wait for book 2, Maestro.
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Top reviews from the United States

  • Tracy P.
    5.0 out of 5 stars 🩶
    Reviewed in the United States on January 24, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    Okay Smoke!! I really enjoyed the suspense and also the romance / spice. On certain parts, I feel like someone hit the fast-forward button in parts where certain things could’ve been elaborated on. HOWEVER, Ioved this book and want more. Moving on to the next book shortly!
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  • WRGRAN1
    4.0 out of 5 stars Wait what just happened😳
    Reviewed in the United States on September 17, 2022
    Verified Purchase
    This is my first experience with this writer So I was a little reluctant and wasn’t sure of what to expect. The story line was was interesting and I thought I had figured out what was going to happen and to a point I was righ . Smoke got my attention and reminded me of someone from my past❤️.He and Aliyah seemed to be perfect for one for each other. And then came the twist with something happening to Smokes best friend that I didn’t see coming ,I was hooked and invested at that point to see what would happen next. To my disappointment the story ended in a cliff hanger😔. Meaning it left me with a ton of unanswered questions .🤔

    So I’ll just say it’s a good read , writing is good , the plot is good , For me ,when I’m reading a series , it’s almost like bing watching Netflix 😅 I want to go from book 1 to the end especially if each book is going to end with a cliff hanger ,It just seems that it makes the waiting that much longer and perhaps rereading the last book all over again for recall. So if you don’t like cliff hangers, which I am not a fan of , this may not be the book for you. At least not until all the books of the series are completed. ☺️
    Ms. Aja, I will come back to this series when at least the next two books are completed. Because I’m definitely looking for answers to my unanswered questions. ❤️
    5 people found this helpful
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  • LS Bergman
    5.0 out of 5 stars Loved it ...
    Reviewed in the United States on July 29, 2022
    Verified Purchase
    I started ‘Smoke’ not knowing what to expect. This was purposeful on my part. I wanted to be surprised..and that I was. Very pleasantly so. This author took me into a world of bosses, underworld ties, of kingpins and the kind of drug related turf violence that hangs on a knife edge. Aaliyah, a beautiful, young journalist on the hunt for answers, determined to get to the bottom of a spree of female disappearances in the area, killings and ODs, including the tragic loss of someone close to her family - is a woman who means business. And Elijah, a boss, a man to be feared, a man whose reputation precedes him .. but a man whom - these days has grown lonely, not feeling the game as much as he used to..maybe cause he’s wiser, or just plain tired of the stress of the streets. I loved everything about this story. The grit, the honesty between the main characters, the research, the ‘gangsta’ action, the sensual vibe between Aaliyah & Elijah, the plot and hella sexy link up (!!) This story is about a man who has known and loved ‘many’ beautiful women. One of whom -his first true love, Zora, - comes back to warn him that his time may be up. She’s had a premonition. Time to change ways? Perhaps. But, never in a million did Elijah see this one coming. ‘The’ game changer as it were. This is a great read! Check it out. This latest offering in Aja’s Enigma Series comes highly recommended !!
    3 people found this helpful
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  • Narnike Pierre
    5.0 out of 5 stars The excellence of this series
    Reviewed in the United States on September 16, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    Aja’s uncanny ability to weave, love, mystery and thrills is absolute PERFECTION!!!! I’ve read the entire soul ties series and just cannot put my device down on this enigma series. Her storytelling gift is poetic and stellar. She along with a dozen more black authors are magnificent at their craft and I look forward to reading all they have. This series in particular is breathtaking. Keeps you on the edge of your seat and allows you the opportunity to have self reflection and looking at life from different perspectives. I think that is what makes books that more special. It’s not only entertaining but for some helpful! Keep up the fantastic work Aja!
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  • diane
    3.0 out of 5 stars Decent read
    Reviewed in the United States on October 16, 2023
    Verified Purchase
    It starts slow, it took me at least a week to finally get to the good part. Once I got there I enjoyed it.
    One person found this helpful
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  • M. Fountain
    5.0 out of 5 stars Romantic Suspense!
    Reviewed in the United States on July 16, 2022
    Verified Purchase
    I was excited about this release and the author delivered. I love that this story involves sho nuff grown folks and the drama and suspense were on point. The chemistry between Aaliyah and Elijah was fiery! I appreciate Zora and how she looked out for Elijah with no bitter or malice. My heart ached at the end of the story as that course of action unleashed the beast in Elijah. Those folks are not ready for Smoke! Looking forward to the next book in the series.
    One person found this helpful
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  • Ree Ree
    4.0 out of 5 stars I want all the SMOKE……..
    Reviewed in the United States on September 7, 2022
    Verified Purchase
    OK so let me start off by saying that this was a pretty good story. Smoke AKA Elijah if ya nasty is definitely Zaddy and Ms. Aaliyah isn’t half stepping either based on the des.
    I don’t want to ruin the review by giving any spoilers. However I first discovered this author randomly in one of my Kindle searches with her Soulmates series. This is one of those stories where you don’t have to read the series soulmates but Smoke was originally introduced in that series as one of the character’s Ex. So I definitely would suggest reading that series 1st and it was pretty good as it was more on the sweet romantic side where you had a little bit of drama but for the most part it was very much a romantic read.

    Now moving on to this particular story, the author opened up the story with a memo stating this is her first, I guess she would label it as an urban romance story, so she did really good with the material but I do think some parts were drawn out. Even with that it was still a good read I didn’t give it five stars because I take issue with that some of the material does not that add up and have some inconsistencies. It’s small things that an editor should have definitely caught in a review so it could come across as if the process was rushed when reviewing the author‘s material. Such as at one point one of the main characters it was noted that she had a job, 2 cars, and owned a house but later on in the story that same character indicated that she would love to one day be able to move out of her two bedroom apartment and into a house that resembled her current living situation due to circumstances that occurred in the story (don’t want to give anything away!). For me those are things that should definitely have been caught by an editor.

    Even with the small inconsistencies throughout the story I would still definitely recommend this author’s series and I can’t wait to see what happens in book 2.
    6 people found this helpful
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