I thought this was very good and I will have to add this to the shop shelves. Thank you for the chance for us to review.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for letting me review this book.

There's secrets and lies. The story got me hooked from the beginning.

I love the characters. The dynamics. But the plot too. Honestly, I just love the entire book.

I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a romantic fantasy read.

Includes:
Viking vibes
Love and betrayal
Angst and feels
Tattoos
Cool magic

This was such an excellent debut! I loved Isy and how awkward she was, especially with Erik. Her character was just really endearing. Erik was a great love interest, slightly broody and mysterious. And he was so charmed by Isy which was adorable. I thought the plot was great and the pacing was good! My issues are with the magic system. I didn't fully understand it. I'm not sure if that's a me problem or a book problem, but it was bothersome either way. And some of the descriptions of wounds were too gross for me. The writing is more poetic than I'm used to reading. I didn't dislike it but I didn't love it either. Overall, this was a great story, just missing the mark on a few things for me. I will definitely be reading the next one though because I need these characters to get their HEAs.

A captivating tale, the story of Isy and Erik is inspired by Scandinavian folklore and takes place in a world infused with magic. The narrative blends suspense with elements of a thriller, politics, a quest, personal struggles rooted in childhood trauma, and romance. These layers make it a story that hooks you in, leaving you eager to read the next part.

The writing style is poetic, rich in descriptions that engage all your senses. At times, the style shifts towards something more akin to a movie script, drawing you closer to the narrator, Isy's emotions. I found the first part of the book a bit slow to start for my taste, but it more than makes up for it in the second half.

Thanks to NetGalley, Shadow Forge Publishing and Sarah Marie Page for a chance to read this book for free. I’m leaving this review of my own accord.

Sarah Marie Page delivers a captivating and well-crafted enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance in Illusion of Stars, blending political intrigue, slow-burn tension, and high-stakes deception with a dash of magic. This new adult romantasy is as thrilling as it is swoon-worthy, providing fans of the genre with a delicious mix of suspense, witty banter, and forbidden attraction.

At the heart of the story is Isabel, the royal physician of a small island kingdom caught in the looming shadow of war. Page does an excellent job establishing Isabel’s character—her fierce loyalty, resilience, and desire for vengeance following the murder of her best friend. Isabel’s personal stakes feel real and relatable, and her mission to infiltrate the enemy kingdom of Volgaard gives the novel its driving force. Tasked with seducing Erik Lothgarson, the son of a powerful general, and stealing a kingdom-threatening weapon, Isabel must navigate a world of lies and deceit while confronting her growing attraction to her enemy.

The dynamic between Isabel and Erik is what elevates Illusion of Stars. Their relationship develops slowly, filled with palpable tension and flirtation. Erik is not only charming but complex, a skilled illusion-magic wielder who proves to be more than just an obstacle to Isabel’s plans. Their chemistry sizzles throughout the novel, perfectly balancing the enemies-to-lovers trope without rushing into romance. Page allows their connection to build naturally, using snarky banter and subtle, stolen moments to keep readers hooked. The "fade-to-black" approach to their physical relationship works well within the story’s framework, ensuring that the focus remains on the emotional and psychological intricacies of their bond.

Page’s world-building is another standout feature. The political tension between the two kingdoms and the sense of impending war adds layers to the narrative, making the stakes feel high and ever-present. The depiction of the mad king and the intrigue surrounding the royal family adds texture to the plot, while the introduction of illusion magic gives the fantasy element a unique twist. Page strikes a good balance between character development and action, weaving the political and magical aspects seamlessly into the romance.

However, what truly sets Illusion of Stars apart is its exploration of deception and moral ambiguity. Isabel’s mission—seducing Erik while planning to betray him—forces her to question her own motivations, and her internal struggle is skillfully portrayed. As her feelings for Erik deepen, the line between duty and desire blurs, and Page keeps readers on edge, wondering how far Isabel is willing to go for vengeance. The stakes rise as Isabel grapples with the weight of her deception, making the romance not just a matter of attraction but of trust and vulnerability.

The novel’s pacing is another strength. While the slow-burn romance takes its time, the plot never feels stagnant. The tension between Isabel’s mission and her growing connection to Erik keeps the pages turning, and the political intrigue surrounding the dangerous weapon adds a sense of urgency. The twists and revelations throughout the story are well-timed, culminating in a gripping ending that sets the stage for the second book in the duology.

If there’s a slight critique, it’s that some secondary characters and elements of the world-building could have been more deeply explored. While the focus on Isabel and Erik’s relationship is well-executed, a bit more depth in the political and magical systems could have enhanced the world even further. However, this doesn’t detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the story.

Final Thoughts:
Illusion of Stars is a thrilling, emotionally charged, and satisfying read for fans of enemies-to-lovers romances. Sarah Marie Page masterfully blends political intrigue, magic, and slow-burn tension, creating a story that hooks readers from start to finish. Isabel’s inner turmoil and her chemistry with Erik give the novel depth, while the overarching plot keeps the stakes high. With its perfect balance of romance, suspense, and fantasy elements, Illusion of Stars is a strong start to what promises to be an exciting duology. A well-deserved 4.5 stars for this simmering, heart-pounding romantic fantasy.

I really enjoyed this. It’s one of those where you wish you could read it for the first time again. Thank you to the writer, publisher and Net Galley allow me to read this book.

I really wanted to like this book but I just don’t think it was for me personally!
It was definetly a it’s me not you kinda moments.

I think the plot most definitely has potential I just mostly got a bit lost with it all although it did get more interesting towards to end. I just wish it had been like that all the way through.

I do think the general vibe is cool and different I just found it too slow for my personal liking.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The story drew me in quickly. The banter was great. I’d say this is more YA/rom-com than Adult. I cannot wait to read the second book. Thank you Shadow Forge Publishing and NetGalley for this advanced reader copy.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!

I really liked this book. The premise was unique and was quite the twist after that first chapter.

The magic system is different than most other books I’ve read. And I love love love the screaming secrets! I nearly died laughing at Isy in so many parts of this book. Her and Erik’s banter was amazing.

It’s not often I find a YA fantasy book I actually enjoy but this one was a good one. There was amazing romance and it didn’t take away from the plot at all. It definitely yanked the heck out of my heart strings more than once, but isn’t that the best part of Romantasy?

Definitely buying this to go on my trophy shelf!

I really liked this book, but it didn’t give me enough to love it.

This story follow Isabel Moller, who is an apprentice physician, battling for the top position as royal physician. She had dedicated all her time and her life to this accomplishment. When a neighboring country, the Volds, lands on their shores, things change.

Isy tragically loses her best friend, suspecting the newcomers. She winds up in a circumstance where she is now tasked to spy on the Vold general’s son and find out who really killed her friend. She is only an apprentice physician, how is she suppose to be a spy?

The book is from Isy’s point of view as she recounts what led her to being imprisoned, writing a confession. The story lacks some major information, but if you realize that Isy also doesn’t know this information, it makes it a little easier to read. Isy is a little naive and believes herself to be small, inconsequential. Through her journey, you watch her find herself and become more confident.

You also watch her fall slowly for Erik. I feel like their love story is realistic because it happens in little moments. Not everything between them is big, dramatic instances. Theres a smirk here, an “I see you” there. It all adds up. I will note that the romance is “fade to black” so nothing is explicitly written, but it is insinuated.

The magic in the first installment is limited to what Isy knows, which isn’t very much, and honestly is a little confusing. Different Vold clans with different abilities, but Erik is the strongest of them all? Why is that? And is magic only in the Volds or is it undiscovered in others? I need more information and so does Isabel!

This book left me with a lot of questions and doubts, but definitely enough intrigue to read the second book. I would recommend this book if you love a MMC who gives you Viking feels, tough on the exterior, but soft on the inside, a little bit of magic sprinkled in the world, and a FMC who find her strength.

I had fun with this although it ventures into rom-com which is not really my thing. That being said, I thought the characters were well written and not over the top, which is usually my issue with rom-com. Maybe banter would be a better descriptor than rom-com, now that I think about it. But, that being said, it was a fast paced, fun read that left me intrigued about the sequel.

Rating- 3.5/4 stars
(E-ARC)- Also available on Kindle Unlimited
Many thanks to NetGalley, Sarah Marie Page and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for letting me have an ARC of this book. Thank you for letting me give my honest opinion of this book.

Illusions of Stars is a debut novel by Sarah Marie Page which is a adult enemies to lovers romantasy with a spy and an enemy general on different sides of the war. This novel has also has a slow burn element to it as well. This book also includes no spice. I feel like this book was a good debut novel for the author, however it did fall quite short for me and did not feel like the target audience for this book. This book was adversited as being adult however I felt like the writing was more aimed to young adult and not adult. Some of the conversations between the spy and the general often felt childish instead of adult conversations.

However this book did have great plot which got stronger as the book went on. The book did take quite a while for the plot to start but once it was established, the plot just got better and better as it went on. I also really relate to Isabel- the spy throughout the book. The quotes she said and the way she lost all hope. There was many times in the book where I felt so sorry for Isabel and had to stop because I related so much. Isabel was a character that will stay with me from this book.

I really wanted to enjoy this book a lot more, but it did fall flat for me. I did feel confused with it at times when the plot was not established. where multiple times I nearly did DNF. It also felt more like romance than fantasy. I felt like I would enjoy this more if there was more fantasy because there was not enough for me. That being said, I did feel the book had great plot and was able to connect with the characters and relate to them.

Wow! What a night…I wish all books are this good. I didn’t want the book to stop! The romance was swoonworthy and intriguing. I can’t wait to see what next and recommend this book to any book lover that includes romance.

I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy of Illusion of Stars on Netgalley and it was the perfect fantasy read to kick off the autumn season!

This slow burn, enemies to lovers romantasy had me hooked from the start. I fell in love with the FMC, Isabel and the MMC, Erik. They are both dealing with past trauma, which they can see in eachother and this *eventually* brings them closer together. But they are also relatable, funny and have some great banter throughout.

I was on a rollercoaster of emotions reading this book, one minute I was over the moon happy, the next I was almost crying my eyes out. You really get invested in Isabel's mission and wanting to learn the truth about what happened to her friend Hans. I read the last third of the book in one stint as I couldn't put it down, and after that cliffhanger of an ending I am already ready for book 2! 😂

Highly recommend to anyone looking for a fun, heartwarming and emotional romantasy!

Thank you to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

We follow Isabel here, who is a doctor in a very small kingdom and wants to become an official physician at the court. However, when her best friend is found dead, she finds herself involved in an espionage case with an enemy kingdom. She will meet Erik, the son of the enemy commander.

I really enjoyed this novel. It wasn’t a favorite, but several things make this book stand out. Isabel is not the cliché of romantic fantasy heroines; she is just an ordinary 18-year-old girl without powers or anything special who wants to succeed in becoming a court physician. Her personality develops over the course of the novel, and we discover a fragile part of her linked to her past, which I find is rarely mentioned in this type of book. Opposite her is Erik, who is much more assertive, although he too suffered in his childhood.

This book has an original magic system: magical boxes and illusion magic, making it difficult to distinguish what is real from what is not. The plot combines romance with magical and political intrigue in a pleasant way. There are, of course, betrayals, and some are predictable, but the whole is rather effective.

The enemies-to-lovers romance between Isabel and Erik develops gently, although I found some of the exchanges a bit juvenile. Toward the end of the novel, it really shifts into a more adult/new adult aspect.

There is also a strong message behind this novel: "You Matter," no matter who you are or what you do, you matter.

In the end, it was an enjoyable read, and I’ll gladly read the sequel!

Prepare to question your own worth as Illusion of Stars by Sarah Marie Page ensnares your imagination, reminding us all that we are worth fighting for, and that we can be either be our own enemies or our own heroines.

Illusion of Stars is a captivating journey through a delicate woven tapestry of fantasy and emotion. From the very first chapter, Page invites readers into a world where magic isn’t just a force but a personal experience that shapes the lives and destinies of its characters. Isy and Erik’s journey is pure magic, grabbing hold of your imagination and refusing to let go until you’ve devoured the last page. From the very first chapter, you’re swept into a world that feels like a dream - or so you think is a dream.

Page does a good job with the world-building. The universe she creates is a mix of familiar fantasy elements and original ideas, especially the magic system. The warriors remind me of the Vikings and their brute strength when it comes to battles, living in a medieval period. Isy, the FMC, is training to become the physician’s assistant to the King of the region she grew up in, but there are issues with the neighboring kingdoms that will draw her attention elsewhere. After a tragic death and everything Isy has worked for comes crashing down, she must choose to either stay behind or become a spy to gain revenge. The intriguing story is written as a retelling of past events by Isy who discovers herself as she starts to grow her confidence. This allows the reader to see themselves in her shoes as she internally navigates her emotions of not being good enough.

The plot is well-paced, balancing action moments with quieter, more introspective scenes that allow for character growth and reflection. The twists and turns keep the reader engaged without ever feeling forced or out of place. Page’s writing style is just as impressive - there’s something almost poetic about how she describes the inner dialogues and emotions of Isy as she faces her doubts and tribulations.

The book in itself is written as Young Adult, which tends not to be something I am inclined to read often, as I like a more mature plot and spice, but the way the characters were written and the way my mind created a world from the writing, I did not notice the lack of intimacy. I enjoyed how the story itself felt more personal and seemed to hold deeper insights for viewers to experience as the journey unfolded. I loved how the main characters expressed their feelings of being lost but ultimately found their way. While fantasy often provides an escape from reality, Illusion of Stars brings real-life struggles to the forefront, allowing readers to journey alongside Isy as she confronts her pain and doubts.

The story is interesting. The meaning of finding one’s self through doubt and growth is a solid foundation to build a story. The sexual tension is there and the progression of the plot showcases a well-written story. I wish there had been more spice, but in hindsight, I can see this being a favorite of high schoolers, those in their early 20s, or anyone who does not like to read spicy scenes. The story does not need heavy doses of sex scenes for the reader to see Isy and Erik’s relationship build. And honestly, that’s a small thing compared to how much this book has to offer.


FMC: The story follows Isabel (Isy), a young woman who’s caught between the ordinary life she’s always known and a desire to prove herself once she finds others who believe in her. She’s someone you can relate to, with doubts and fears, but also with a fire inside her that grows stronger as the story unfolds. I love how I can see my own insecurities in the character throughout the trials Isy is thrown into. It reminds me of Forth Wing and how Violet questions herself but has her own internal battle to prove to those around her that she is worthy.

MMC: Erik, a Volds general and magic weilder, who is dark, brooding, and mysterious, becomes curious about Isy as they set off on travels with his warriors in tow. Erik has his own demons from his past of not belonging and parental abandonment, which shapes how he guards himself from most people. As the story progresses, he slowly lets Isy in to understand his fears and faults. Erik gives me Evren (Stars and Shadows Series) vibes from his darkness at the beginning, but his temperament becomes milder as the story progresses with Isy throughout the book.

Overall, Illusion of Stars is a great read for young adults, fantasy fans, and anyone who loves a story with heart. The ending is left with a cliffhanger. I almost feel like there should have been a few more chapters to end the story on a bigger “WTF” moment, but that being said - I will be looking forward to book 2’s release and patiently waiting to read the completion of the story.


A quick rating of the story (out of 5):
Overall Story: 3.5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐✨
Character Development: 4 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 1 Star (making out but glossing over the sexy time) 🔥

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"Illusion of Stars" is a captivating story that intertwines themes of love, self-worth, and personal growth within a beautifully crafted fantasy landscape. The novel centers on Isy, whose internal monologue feels like an echo of the self-doubt and longing many of us experience. For readers who have ever struggled with their own inner critics, Isy's reflections will resonate deeply.

At the outset, the book's pace is gentle, which can feel slow but is essential for the world-building and details that unfold. This gradual start lays the foundation for a more engaging and rewarding experience as the story progresses. The patience required to delve into this world is ultimately justified by the satisfying evolution of the plot.

The heart of the narrative is the relationship between Isy and Erik. Their dynamic is a masterful depiction of a romance grounded in authenticity. The awkwardness and tentative steps in their burgeoning relationship are portrayed with such realism that it feels like witnessing a genuine connection. They see each other beyond superficial aspects, engaging with each other's vulnerabilities and strengths in a way that is both touching and compelling.

One of the standout features of this novel is its poetic prose. The writing is imbued with lines that linger long after the page is turned—phrases that are healing, inspiring, and filled with hope. The book's ability to convey profound emotions through elegant language is a testament to the author's skill.

"Illusion of Stars" also offers a satisfying twist on the enemies-to-lovers trope. Isy and Erik, though initially at odds, are revealed to share more common ground than they realize. This nuanced portrayal adds depth to their characters and relationship. The story is set against a backdrop of Scandinavian-inspired lore, providing a fresh and lighter take on fantasy.

Despite its lighter tone, the book does not shy away from complex themes, including self-harm, and it manages to balance these elements with humor and action. Isy's misguided attempts at stealth and her unintentional clumsiness add a layer of charm to the narrative. While the writing can be occasionally challenging to follow, it does not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the story.

Ultimately, what shines through in "Illusion of Stars" is the compelling interplay between its characters. Their development and interactions are the true heart of the novel, making it a memorable read for fans of fantasy romance.

Okay, so, first of all... the title, the meaning of it... my heart is squeezing itself so tight to try and provide what little comfort it can because when you find the meaning... Gah 🥺💔

Now, the story... It took me a little time to fully immerse myself as there's a fair bit of world building and set up at the beginning, but it all proved necessary to the story:s progression. It's not a bad thing at all, I think I just wasn't expecting there to be so much before diving in to the romance side of the romantasy and he bulk of the story, you know? That's a me issue. Not a story issue.

Once I was settled and into it, I was intooo it. I really connected with Isabel, the FMC. She felt so real and so much like me in so many ways, it was really easy to slip into her headspace. The way this is written as Isy’s inner monologue also helps massively with that. It's very... (listen, I'm not a writer so forgive me) It's very, like, thought-y. Like, it's written in a casual sorta conversational/dear diary type of way that really drew me into the story. It's well done, okay? I liked it, it worked.

I really fell for the supporting characters too - Bo, Kaspar, Tyr and Signey specifically. Big fat load of love for them all.

The magic system is really interesting too, I was really intrigued by the different illusion magics, and I want to know more about the boxes!

The cliffhanger... Woowee, it has me eagerly awaiting the next book, but content at the same time. Like, not a desperate ragey eager, but an excited comfortable eager, yano?

I think this may be a time when a book just wasn't for me! I admire the author and her absolute determination to see her book published, especially with all the issues she's had. I think it's really lovely that she's able to put her art out into the world!

I liked Isy and all the banter she had with the Vold crew members (very Shallan/bridge 4 vibes) and I really like the initial world building! The setting was super vivid.

My issues just came in with the clarity of the prose for especially the last half of the book. Just felt like we jumped around a lot and it was a bit confusing. There were lots of plot points mentioned once and then never resolved or picked up again which made the story feel a bit lost and characters ended up repeating themselves fairly often.

If you like YA romantasy (which tbf is not a genre I particularly read) then I would definitely give this a go. Supporting a self published, indie author is never a bad thing to do!

Enemies to lovers is my favorite trope in romantasy books, and this was great. It did feel a little rushed or just off at times? But it was still a great read and I’ll definitely be picking up the second!