Illusions of Fate
by Kiersten White
Dive into a world of enchantment and romance in this lush fantasy, which Stephanie Perkins, international bestselling author of Anna and the French Kiss, called “an absolute delight—a magical, sparkling, dangerous world with witty repartee and a romance that will light your heart on fire.” Fans of Libba Bray and Cassandra Clare will fall in love with this captivating stand-alone novel from Kiersten White, New York Timesbestselling author of the Paranormalcy trilogy. Jessamin has been an outcast since she moved from her island home of Melei to the dreary country of Albion. Everything changes when she meets the gorgeous, enigmatic Finn, who introduces her to the secret world of Albion’s nobility, a world that has everything Jessamin doesn’t—power, money, status … and magic. But Finn has secrets of his own, and the vicious Lord Downpike will do anything to possess them. Unless Jessamin, armed only with her wits, can stop him.
I received a free copy from the publishers via Edelweiss. Illusions of Fate follows the life of Jessamin, a girl who moves from her island home of Melei to the gray and drizzly country of Albion (we have a POC character!), and meets the damnably handsome Finn. Finn introduces Jessamin to the wonders of Albion’s nobility - specifically, the magic of it. Jessamin, however, becomes a pawn that Lord Downpike uses in order to possess the much wanted secret of Finn, and this puts her in some serious danger. I seriously loved every second of Illusions of Fate, even if it lost a bit of its magic towards the end. It’s a dazzlingly, witty and suspenseful historical fantasy. I read at every opportunity, mentally fist-bumped Jessa for her witty remarks and stubbornness, and swooned over the charming Finley. It also picks up on some very important themes, particularly racism. No matter how many strong-willed and witty female characters I meet in books, I never tire of them. They’re fun, they’re entertaining and they are someone to root for. Jessamin was exactly this, I loved her for it. I must admit, she has become one of my favourite female characters. I even loved the romance, despite how quick it was, but it was done exceptionally well and I think it’s because of Jessamin’s reluctance and Finn’s utterly charming personality. Finn is a great character as well, and matches Jessamin perfectly. He is charismatic, fetching, intelligent and utterly gallant. He’s great with Jessamin because she’s all these things too! She’s bold, smart, witty, proud and I deeply admired her. Illusions of Fate is a deeply engaging novel with just the right amount of magic, suspense, adorable romance and strong female leads. I’m sad it’s a standalone novel, but I’m also happy how it ended. I would highly recommend.
RATING: ★★★☆☆
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