This fantasy romance was an enjoyable read, especially after the author mentioned it was perfect for fans of Dramione. Although it started off slow, once the story picked up, I was totally hooked. The fascinating and unique world-building and magic, along with the beautifully written descriptions, allow you to fully immerse yourself in this world. Expect a slow burn, an enemies-to-lovers dynamic, illusions, and betrayal.

The way this book sang to me. Where to start? Isy...Isy Isy Isy...so relatable. She spoke to me on so many levels but her insecurities, low self-esteem, self doubt particularly over self worth, never feeling enough...I felt so seen on these pages. Her character laid me bare...all of her fears and doubts are all things I know all too well. The story - the sooth mentioning her fate to hold the door (sorry, my mind did go a little GoT there and shouted HODOR haha) and then Erik mentioning the sooth and his palm reading yet it being so close to Isy's....perfect drops of things to come. However, I DID NOT SEE THAT ENDING! The story about Aalto and Vega and then Signey calling Erik Vega at the end - the way EVERYTHING clicked with their fates and the earlier mention of puffins. He’s ready to tear down the sky to get her back and I cannot wait but the disobeying the order bit makes me so nervous!! I saw Stefan coming from 50 miles away, I knew Hans was going to be the one that died because something had to turn the tide for Isy's story to take off and she was already feeling so much guilt over him, I knew Erik would go get her back but I didn’t think there would be potential repercussions from the binding. I should have known something like this would be the case from the beginning but you got me! Also, the reveal of the hearts being cut out and why was such a good easter egg/reveal. I feel like I'm verbally vomiting because I am still processing everything I just read.

I loved this book. I've already sent multiple texts to friends telling them they have to read this. I posted my reaction to the last to chapters on instagram even though I hate hate hate showing my face because people need to read this - particularly people who feel *less than* and *not enough*. Working on my Goodreads review and will have a post ready for instagram for release day (will add both here after complete)! Thank you so much for the e-ARC!!!

Sarah Marie Page delivers a breathtaking fantasy romance with an electrifying enemies-to-lovers twist. The story of Isabel and Erik is a masterclass in slow-burn romance and simmering tension. Page's writing is exquisite, seamlessly blending snarky banter with heart-pounding action. The characters are captivating and well-developed, each with their own intriguing layers. The world-building is rich and immersive, making every page a delight. The plot had me captivated from the start with its engaging banter and unexpected twists that kept me on the edge of my seat. Once the story gained momentum, it raced forward without pause. Isabel's journey through feelings of unworthiness and trauma was depicted with poignant beauty, portraying her transformation from self-doubt to unyielding resolve. The unique magic system introduced in the story holds many secrets yet to be uncovered, hinting at a larger, mysterious world. With the groundwork laid for a promising series, I found myself thoroughly captivated and eagerly anticipate what lies ahead. Overall, this book is an unputdownable read, and I can't wait to read the published version of this stunner of a book.

This book absolutely amazed me that I devoured it in 24 hours! Immediately after reading the excerpt, I knew this would be right up my alley. The first couple chapters felt a little slow and I was worried that I would not be fully immersed in the story, but approximately 50 pages in, I was tuned in!

The magic system was so unique and the worldbuilding was incredibly enthralling. The descriptions of how many people in proximity each individual can conjure their powers for was such an interesting addition. This truly highlights Erik's strength and his role in this war. However, I I wish we got to see more scenes with illusion magic, aside from the ones meant to torture Isabel).

Isabel is such a compelling FMC. Being sent as a spy in guise of a guide, despite being the most terrible liar, cracked me up! The Volds had her figured out from the very beginning. Her development throughout the book is so admirable. I don't think I've ever encountered a character I've related to as much as Isabel. As someone who has constantly felt "small", I applaud her eventual realization that she is so much more than her past and background. From the initial denial she had towards being worthy of love due to the persistent idea that she was not enough, to opening up her heart to Erik and forming such strong bonds with those around her tugged at my heartstrings. The importance of truly being seen wholeheartedly is something that humans crave and cherish. These moments that Erik and Isy had were so tender. After bearing their souls to one another, which they have never done before, allowed them to understand each other in the deepest manner. Despite having differences, they both knew what it felt like to be alone, bringing them together which catalyzed an unbreakable bond.

That cliffhanger was criminal and I am respectfully demanding a copy of the sequel once it is finished. I cannot not recommend this enough!

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Shadow Forge Publishing for the digital ARC in exchange for an honest review!

This was a fabulous read! I enjoyed so many things about this book from the world building, unique magic systems, adventure, the characters, friendships, banter, slow burn romance, betrayals and reveals. If you like all of these tropes, then this is the book for you. I loved the whole underlying theme of "I see you" and "you are enough". Well written, I hope to see more from this author.

I was blessed with the chance to get an e-ARC of this book. Thank you to Sarah Marie Page and Shadow Forge Publishing for this opportunity!

Ms SARAH MARIE PAGE!!!!! WHAT IN THE ABSOLUTE MASTERPIECE HAVE YOU PUT IN THIS BOOK?! Sincerely, one who cannot wait for book nr 2.

Illusion of Stars has such cozy and fiery vibes. The blend between humor and seriousness is perfectly balanced and this book was downright addictive. The ending left me speechless, and I expected no less (but was definitely NOT prepared for THAT ending). I am a sucker for enemies to lovers, and this was on.the.spot!

Be prepared to be slung into a mesmerizing world of magic, love and betrayal. Erik Lothgarson is one darn good MMC, that's for sure! And to be paired with Isy as our FMC was a match made in heaven. Where his grim, dark and mysteriousness comes into play - she meets this with her light, pure heart and braveness. He is confident where she is doubtful. She is comforting where he is lost. And they both are vulnerable in their own ways. I simply love these characters (and many more!!).

AND WE MUSN'T FORGET THE TOP TIER BANTER!!!

The use of words, and sentence building is simply outstanding. I highlighted every other page because there were so many beautiful descriptions.
I posted a review of this amazing book on the 18th of june, on my TikTok account: mycozylittlebookcorner (clink on the link I added in the review and you should be taken straight to the video).
Feel free to check it out<3

I was lucky enough to receive an ARC in exchange of my honest thoughts- thank you Netgalley, Shadow Forge Publishing, and Sarah Marie Page for allowing me to get an early copy!

Off the bat we are met with banter- I ATE THAT UP. I love a story that is both equally intriguing that can get me to smile and laugh along with the characters.

The world building is intense but Sarah wrote it beautifully. I was so deep into this world it’s not even funny. The story is very character driven, and fleshed out more than a lot of other fantasy stories that are published AND I APPRECIATE YOU SARAH FOR THIS!! If you’ve read Crescent City, you’ll be just fine with the world building! I never felt overwhelmed or overly confused- nothing a little paragraph reread wouldn’t help :) IF YOU KNOW YOU KNOW

Now let’s talk about the romance- it is a fade to black- HOWEVER- it is DONE RIGHT, and I didn’t miss the spice at all. Personally the story was so so good that I felt it wasn’t even really needed. ISY AND ERIK 5EVER <3

This story depicts loss, growth, overcoming obstacles, chasing your dreams- and I couldn’t rant and rave about how much I enjoyed it. We got adventure,banter, tension, missions- goodbye- ITS A MASTERPIECE. Let’s just highlight ~enemies to lovers~ because hellloooo-
The pacing was perfect, the info was well spread out and I was HOOKED from page 1.

I’m so stupid excited about the next book- but also WHAT WAS THAT CLIFFHANGER- MAAM?? Can I forward my therapist your info for my bills?

Sarah Marie Page has just became one of my autobuy authors. ✨

I absorbed this book. Goodness it was so intriguing! I devoured it!!! Definitely such a good read! ⭐⭐⭐⭐

I absolutely could not put it down, I fell in love with the characters, and the author managed to make me laugh and cry multiple times, the story revolves around deep seeded feelings of self doubt and grief, and overcoming our own fears of failure, of finding our strengths, and falling in love with the imperfections that make each of us unique. I loved that she showed masculine vulnerability, that she built friendships in natural ways, I really have no complaints at all about this story except that I need the rest of the story now, I want the next book now! There are definitely triggers in this book and the author outlines them, with a heartfelt message because our mental health matters first.

Oh my goodness this book was STUNNING. I really loved it, and it hooked me from the very first chapter. I really loved this whole experience. It was such a cozy, whimsical, funny, captivating read.

Illusion of Stars by new to me author S M Page is a brilliant story, excellent written and beautifully told. I fell in love with characters and worldbuilding, hook, line and sinker. A story that'll stay with me for a very long time, I just know it. This enemies-to-lovers debut desreves all the stars.
I recommend this gem of a story, 5 stars.
Blurb: As the royal physician of a tiny, windswept island, Isabel spends her days trying to keep the queen from dying and the king from streaking naked down the halls. But when her best friend is found on the beaches, her world is ripped apart. Desperate for answers, she discovers a stash of letters that reveal a terrifying truth: the neighboring kingdom of Volgaard possesses a kingdom-shattering weapon and is poised to conquer everything in its path.
Seeking vengeance, Isabel infiltrates the enemy. Her mission? Woo Erik Lothgarson, the general's steamy, illusion-magic wielding son, and steal the dangerous weapon. She can bring Volgaard to its knees-if she isn't caught.
But as Isabel dances along the lines between truth and fiction blur...

Thank you to @sarahpagestories and @netgalley for an ARC of Illusion of Stars!

- Enemies-to-lovers 
- Forced proximity 
- One horse
- Who did this to you?
- Angsty men
- illusion magic
- He’d burn it down for her
- She’s a spy- he’s her mark

This!!! This is a book you won’t want to miss. Let me start by saying I stayed up until 4am because I refused to put it down. And now, it’s after 4am and I’m still up because I want to write my review immediately to tell the world that you NEED to read this!

The FMC and MMC are on opposite sides of an impending war. She’s working hard to be the Royal physician’s apprentice and he’s the son of the enemies General. When her best friend is found dead, she is sent on a mission to infiltrate the enemy, woo the generals son, and steal a dangerous weapon. What could go wrong? Right?

This book was unputdownable! The only exception being that I, unfortunately, had to sleep… the first night anyway. This is only because I started it so late to begin with. The next night, however, it did not get put down! I kept telling myself I should savor this and make it last, but then the greedy part of me said, no. And I. DEVOURED. THIS!

The story/plot was captivating and so well written. The setting was described so well you could see it all. The characters were very well developed and lovable/ swoon worthy. And the message of the book that you are not nobody, you matter, was so genuine and deeply felt.

After finishing, I immediately had to confirm that there will be a sequel and I won’t even attempt to lie and say that I’ll be waiting patiently for it. I need it now! Gimme, gimme, gimme!

Out of all of the postive things I could say about this book, what stuck out to me the most is the quality of the writing. The romantasy genre (and particularly the books pushed on booktok and bookstagram) tends to suffer from lackluster writing, but manage to entertain readers with immersive stories. Sarah Marie Page has managed to marry the two and give her readers a fascinating story!

This book was such an exciting read! I absolutely loved it and I can't wait to read more from this author. The plot was fast paced and was never boring. The characters were interesting and unique which made the story really enjoyable for me. Great read!

Super swoony romance! I really enjoyed this book and I thought the world buildibg was really well written!
It was a fade to black story and someone who usually lives spice I appeciated it and felt like it flowed really well with the rest of the book.

Deffo recommend!

Sarah Marie Page delivers a breathtaking fantasy romance with an electrifying enemies-to-lovers twist. The story of Isabel and Erik is a masterclass in slow-burn romance and simmering tension. The writing is exquisite, seamlessly blending snarky banter with heart-pounding action. The characters are captivating and well-developed, each with their own intriguing layers. The world-building is rich and immersive, making every page a delight. Overall, an unputdownable read. I can’t wait enough for the finale.

Illusion of Stars is a Fantasy Romance book and the debut novel from Sarah Marie Page and OMG I’m obsessed with the world this author created and all the characters, I already can’t wait for book 2!

All Isabel dreams about is becoming the royal physician, but when her friend is murdered and the suspects are the general from enemy country and his handsome son, Erik, Isabela is tasked with seducing Erik and getting information out of him. But it proves to be more difficult than she expected, especially when instead of flirting she keeps bantering with the irritating general’s son and the more time she spends with him and his friends the more she realizes everything she heard about them might have been wrong and her growing feelings for Erik complicate everything even more.

I can’t believe it’s this author debut book, it’s so well written with fascinating world building and interesting and perfectly paced plot, I was hooked since the first page and read the whole book in one sitting. I loved Isabel as the main character, she was a bit annoying in the beginning but grew a lot in this book and I can’t wait to see what will happen to her next. Erik was an amazing MMC, I loved how vulnerable he was with Isabel at times and his and Isabel’s slow burn enemies to lovers romance was everything, their attraction was off the charts and I loved all their scenes, the banter, their conversation, the cute scenes all were incredible and I just loved these 2 together and can’t wait to see them again especially after THAT ending, I’m still not well and need the next book ASAP.

Illusion of Stars is a really great fantasy romance book and an amazing debut with everything I love in this genre, I loved it and definitely recommend it to everyone. The next book can’t come soon enough!

This story follows the confessions of the royal physician in training, Isabel as she contends with a mad king, enemy soldiers and much more. if you like Romantasy books, with slow-burn romances and intrigue this book is for you.

I love that it includes a detailed trigger list although it’s placed at the back of the book, It also lists the sexual content within the book and what pages those are placed I really appreciated this, my copy has a link to the map but I do believe in the published copy the map will be on the page, on that note the map looks so good.

The writing initially seems a bit simple, but once you get reading you hardly notice, the characters come across as a bit flat and one-dimensional at the start, and some of the dialogue felt awkward and I was not too fond of some of the characters, however as the story progressed the character and dialogue felt a bit more natural as the pace picked up.

The story takes a while to get going and doesn’t really get good until about the 50% mark. However, after this point, it was delightful, intriguing and funny. despite its slow start, it was an absolute winner by the end.

The book had me captivated from the start. The banter was soooooo good. The twists were wild and very unexpected. When things started to get going they got going and didn’t stop. The FMC’s journey through her feelings of worthiness and trauma was written beautifully. Watching her go from I’m not good enough to no I am going to fight was great. The magic in this book is unique and I think there is still more we haven’t learned. There is still a lot to be revealed and this book sets up the possibility for an amazing series. Loved this book and can’t wait to see what’s to come.

This was a fantastic Romantasy that I couldn't put down!

Isabel is a royal physician who’s got her hands full with keeping the queen alive and dealing with a mad king. Things take a dark turn when her best friend is murdered, sending her on a mission for revenge.

Isabel has to infiltrate the enemy kingdom to get close to Erik Lothgarson. She also has to steal a weapon. She has a tough time ahead of her!

I truly loved the world that was created. It took me a bit to fully understand it all, but once I did, I was hooked.

The slow-burn romance between Isabel and Erik is intense and full of chemistry. I was definitely a fan of them!

And that cliffhanger ending – wow! It left me on the edge of my seat!

I think the cover is absolutely gorgeous and really captures the magical feel of the story.

This is a must-read for fans of slow-burn romance and epic fantasy.

Thank you NetGalley and Shadow Forge Publishing for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.