When I first learned about this book as a result of perusing Ardell’s social media page, I was hesitant to read it due to the apparent ‘romantic’ lure that it seemed to be centered around (i.e., not my typical reading interest). I got a nod from the author, alluding to an almost—atypical, romance’ish story. With that, I journeyed into the abyss. While it was certainly still a romance book in my view, one of its deeper, central themes was that of inspiration; of tenacity in the face of stereotypes, biases and mindsets that serve to feed the status quo. That which has no expectation of Black women (in particular) drawn to, being immersed, or otherwise actively perusing STEM—specifically.
This was a very different topic and focal point of the story; one well-framed by the growth and realizations of the main character, Monet. The relationships felt believable and relatable (especially some of the sibling banter I’ve heard growing up). I found the interactions, dialog, as well as the conflicts very similar to what we hear or read in the real world so this all could have been something from ‘reality’ TV. In fact, it had a kind of Tyler Perry movie-feel about it, with a twist. One of the standout elements of the book is an unmistakable sense of Monet maturing into who she didn’t know she was even looking to become.
Admittedly, there were a few parts I skipped over due to content that didn’t gel with me, but aside from those, Elevated Inferno was easy reading. The audio book was very well done, easy on the ears regarding its attention-capturing quality, and was vocally well-paced and engaging.
Ardell—Engineer-turned Writer-turned STEM Marketer wrote the heck out of this story. As an added bonus, it was wonderful to see some of the real-world inspiration and origins for this story on Ardell’s social media and website(s). Bravo.
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About the author
I Don't Like Science, But I Liked this Book
African American nonfiction is my preferred literary genre, and I'm more "arts" than "sciences." However, I thoroughly enjoyed this romance novel about a young woman whose ambition and drive collide with her heart's desires. The readers go along with Monet, the main character, as she navigates various relationships in her life, not just the romantic one. The author does an admirable job of making us care about the protagonist. Monet is that niece or cousin... the smart girl you remember from church or school, who you knew would always make it. Readers root for her as she tries to find that life balance so many women seek. One thing I found refreshing about this book is the romantic aspect minus the gratuitous sex. Yes, it is possible to have love and romance without intercourse, and the author adeptly handles it honestly and realistically. Elevated Inferno is a great, easy read and I recommend it.
Top reviews from the United States
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- Reviewed in the United States on March 10, 2024Format: Paperback
- Reviewed in the United States on October 14, 2022Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
African American nonfiction is my preferred literary genre, and I'm more "arts" than "sciences." However, I thoroughly enjoyed this romance novel about a young woman whose ambition and drive collide with her heart's desires.
I Don't Like Science, But I Liked this Book
Reviewed in the United States on October 14, 2022
The readers go along with Monet, the main character, as she navigates various relationships in her life, not just the romantic one. The author does an admirable job of making us care about the protagonist. Monet is that niece or cousin... the smart girl you remember from church or school, who you knew would always make it. Readers root for her as she tries to find that life balance so many women seek.
One thing I found refreshing about this book is the romantic aspect minus the gratuitous sex. Yes, it is possible to have love and romance without intercourse, and the author adeptly handles it honestly and realistically.
Elevated Inferno is a great, easy read and I recommend it.
Images in this review
- Reviewed in the United States on July 18, 2022Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
This book was so fun to read! I really enjoyed the story of the main character Monet. Although this was a fiction book, Monet was so relatable. There were 2 specific aspects of her life that resonated so much with me but I won't share it so I won't spoil it for others. Carlotta Ardell did a magnificent job writing a story that was entertaining, articulated real challenges that Black women in STEM face, captured the family dynamics of some families yet there was good comedy and a bit of suspense in this precious love story. I was almost sad that this book was coming to an end before vacation because I don't have anything like it available to read for my next trip. In fact, this book was such a page turner that always made sure to have it handy whenever I left the house. I'll be looking out for Carlotta Ardell's next book! Bravo to pioneering this new genre!
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