3.5 ★’s

I’m gonna be totally honest: I DNFed this for a few weeks when I first started it. I got about 25% of the way in and had to stop because I was confused by what was going on. But I picked it up yesterday just to see if maybe I hadn’t been in the mood when I first started & I’ll just go ahead and say I read the entire thing in one sitting.

The biggest issue I had with the book was the writing style, specifically with the intense stream of consciousness that was happening. There were a lot of words & whole sentences that were constantly repeated & I feel like it was done with the intention of making a scene or action feel more precarious, but it did the opposite and just annoyed me. This got a little better by the end of the book but that could just be because I got used to it.

The magic system was really interesting, but again, I was confused in how it worked and what certain “branches” of their magic actually did. There was a scene earlier on where she goes to the Vold camp and sees a “better me” and THAT kept throwing me off, I had literally no idea what was going on.

Ok anyway, enough of the ~critiques~, now for the fun stuff:

It’s not spicy! Which is nice (for me)! I think the message Sarah is trying to get across runs through the entire length of the story, is never forgotten in favor of the romance, and ends on a satisfying note. I genuinely liked Isabel and the way she interacted with the characters around her, especially the Volds & I’m really looking forward to seeing her interacting with Signey more later on.

I also enjoyed Erik & Isy together (and also liked that it was mostly Erik in trouble all of the time, not vice versa – love me some hurt/comfort >:)).

As a debut novel, I think it’s a good start and I’m excited to see how Sarah’s writing evolves throughout these books. Thank you a ton to Sarah & NetGalley for providing me with an ARC!!

Who wouldn’t want to read a book with such a gorgeous title? That’s what captured my attention in the first place, then the cover. This is a really good book for anyone who likes fantasy. Strong characters, magic, fortune telling, visions, bravery, heartache and a little romance all mixed together to make one stunning story. I found it difficult to put down and can’t wait for the next part. Thank you to NetGalley for letting me read this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Wonderful characters, banter, world building and imagery. Solid fantasy plot arc. Truly enjoyed and had a hard time putting down, got very caught up in the story.

This book was everything I didn’t know I needed. The concept was so cool and really fun to read. Isabel and Erik were EVERYTHING. I’m absolutely obsessed with there relationship. This book made me laugh, cry, and honestly… I felt all the feelings. It had twist and turns that I definitely didn’t see coming. And the ending?! An absolutely 10/10. I can’t wait for the second book.

𝘏𝘦
𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘴𝘦𝘥
𝘵𝘩𝘦
𝘥𝘰𝘶𝘣𝘵
𝘢𝘸𝘢𝘺.
Just… wow. I absolutely loved this book.
I was lucky enough to be approved on NetGalley to receive an advanced copy and omg am I glad that I requested this one. I found Isabel’s story so inspiring, and I love the relationship development between the characters. The world building is woven into the story which I really appreciated and the world and magic system that Sarah has created is unique and intriguing. The message that Sarah is sending through her story is a beautiful one too - 𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕖𝕟𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙. I was hooked from the moment I started reading it and I can’t wait for the next book.

I LOVED this book so much! As a lover of romantasy books, this one was right up my alley. The writing was very beautiful, even lyrical at times, and enjoyable to read. I also loved how character driven this story was. I connected with Isabel and her journey with her self worth, so safe to say I felt seen by the mental health rep in this book. And I LOVED our love interest Erik. He honestly becomes such a softie for Isabel, I loved it so much.

If you like:
Fade to black spice scenes
INCREDIBLE banter
One horse trope (unique spin on it)
Slow burn
Enemies to lovers
Forced Proximity
AND SO MUCH MORE... read this book!!!

I enjoyed what I read of this book, but I had to DNF after 12 chapters for 2 reasons: format and preference for fantasy. The pages were mostly dark grey on my kindle app, so it was difficult for my eyes to focus on the words. This is no fault to the author, simply a misprint and technological error on the download side. I stopped reading because the world building became an information dump and took away from the progression of the story and what I felt was strong character development. This is in no way the fault of the author; I prefer gradual world building where pieces come together throughout the entire story and alongside the main character development. However, I thoroughly enjoyed the characterization of Isabel. She had great depth and a fascinating backstory. Once again, my preference in fantasy is to focus on the character and their relationship rather than the world building.

I firstly would like to start with how this was a breath of fresh air of a YA fantasy for me. I've personally read a lot of YA fantasies so whenever I start reading one I hold off on any thoughts until I get to the end of the book.

Let me tell you all the thoughts I had after finishing this book put me in Lore speculation mode, and when a YA fantasy does that - they've won me. If I'm still thinking about the book after I finish it, that's a good indication that I want to share my thoughts about it and share this book with others too. The banter, tongue in cheek behaviour and will they won't they dynamic between Isabel and Erik has the right amount of tension which I loved. I also felt that a lot of this story so far has been about learning to love all your broken parts and accepting them as a part of you - and that gives a somewhat coming-of-age feel to the story. This is only book 1, so really the story has just begun. The whole 'I see you' feelings that were shared honestly had me welling up a bit because there was such a sincere approach to how these tough emotional moments were handed with such care.

I want to remind people that this is a *Fade to Black romance, and whilst I personally am I fan of intimate scenes I felt that these *Fade to Black romance moments within IOS really did strike a cord with me and I did feel an emotional connection towards both Isabel and Erik, I also felt the romance really beginning to stir between them in this first instalment and I appreciated how it felt a little different to other slow burns I've read. I'd also say at times Isy is an unreliable narrator, but she is RELATABLE for that reason. She's constantly torn at so many points and the further you get into the book the further it all unravels.

I actually found that the magic system in this was quite fascinating, and I really enjoyed how Page delved into explaining all the elements, the Volgaard's powers/affinities and how they worked. I felt that it was broken down in a way that I could visually imagine it all as I was reading the story. The focus around the world building and dipping in and out of the History of the locations was a great touch too. I felt like I could understand the direction the story was going in.

I hope we get some MPOV in the next book, that's the only thing that I felt was a little lacking. This is not a reflection of the book itself, it's simply that I feel MPOV's would've offered us a chance to dig a bit deeper into the background of other characters, even a little early on. I know we DO get another POV (not spoiling anything) but I think we needed just a smidge more. I hope in book 2 we reaaaally get to see more of Sidney and learn more about her because damn, I love her!

Also I WAS SUS FROM THE START AND I KNEW IT AND I'M STILL MAD THAT I KNEW IT ARRRRGH

Cannot wait for book 2!!!

FIVE STARS

Forced Proximity? Check.
One Horse? Check.
Enemies to Lovers? Check.
Reluctant Hero? Check.

If you love a good romantasy (A Fate Inked In Blood, Throne Of Glass, etc.) then you'll LOVE Illusion Of Stars!

I have just finished this book and all I can say is WOW. The book was truly very well written and the world that the author created was very well done. The characters development of the book was really well done especially when it came to the sub character plot lines and the use of magic in the story was done so beautifully written.

You could really feel the angst and tension between the Erik and isabella. The enemies to lovers storyline I really liked as I love the tension between characters. Overall the book was really good and I would give it a 3.5 stars as it was a good read for me and very different to the books I read. I am very thankful to NetGalley for the ARC and allowing me to read the book before it goes live.

"I see you".

And I see you, Sarah. And I see the magic you have created with the pages of Illusion of Stars. I am honoured you chose me as your ARC reader and allowed me to dive into this beautiful story early. Illusion of Stars is being released on July 16th.

Illusion of Stars is so much more than your typical fantasy book; this is a story of people who always felt small, felt like they were less and the story of them learning to accept their worth and that they are enough and more.

I fell in love with the story and have loved every page of it. The writing style is lyrical and poetic without being overbearing; it matches perfectly the emotional turmoil the characters go through. We are gifted with the story of two broken people finding their way to each other amid impending war and political intrigues. Isabel and Erik should be enemies, coming from enemy countries, and while they might be enemies and strangers at first, their kindred souls will rise above that and just see each other for who they are. They see all their broken pieces, all the good and bad; they see, and they see past it. They see a soul yearning for love and acceptance and give it.

I loved Isabel and Erik, but I also loved how Sarah truly gave life to her side characters. They all made the story as enthralling and inspiring as it is. I loved the humour, the banter, and the little quirks; they highlighted the developing relationships.

I feel this makes Illusion of Stars a story that needs to be read and experienced: the tapestry of love, hurt, betrayal, friendship, banter, and healing. Illusion of Stars is a story of the healing process, and I felt it deep in my bones. I understood the feeling and relived it myself. So, please, give Sarah and Illusion of Stars a chance to shine upon you; you won't regret it!

And that cliffhanger... I'm already counting down the days until I can reunite with Erik and Isabel, witnessing their journey unfold in all its glory!

Illusion of Stars will gift you
🤍trauma healing
🤍mental health rep
🤍self-acceptance
🤍lyrical writing
🤍strangers to lovers
🤍forced proximity
🤍one horse
🤍 fade to black romance
🤍found family
🤍 ends on a cliffhanger

My favourite thing in this book was the banter, good banter and enemies to lovers is absolute top tier romantasy 🫶

Isobel, an apprentice physician is tasked with accompanying the enemy on a mission, asked to infiltrate their camp & bring the generals son to his knees.. literally

For me to devour a YA book, it has to be good and this was GOOD - it was so captivating and unique and I love love love Isy and Erik 🥹

This book has such incredible world building, it has set us up for what is looking like an unforgettable series - the imagery was so stunning and I really felt like I was on those islands. Alongside the world building, unique magic systems & a fiesty FMC - Sarah touched on some heavy topics (check the trigger warnings)
These hardships are so beautifully written, and added so much depth to the characters - the enemies have more in common then they know - all they want is to be seen yet they didn’t expect to feel seen by eachother.

“I was a friend and lover. A daughter. Radiant. Not small like sand, but a fulmar unfurling her wings”

The need for book 2 is insane, I cannot wait to continue this journey 💗

Thank you so much Netgalley , Sarah & Victory Editing for my advanced copy of this book - it is one I will always remember! 🫶

This story has alot of potential and positives but unfortunately it wasn't my style. This book was not for me.
Even though it wasn't my style, I was still able to appreciate the positives of this book.
The world building was dense and believable.
The magic system was unique and well written.
I loved the banter between Erik and Isabella.
Alot of work was done in character building, so I found I really enjoyed the side characters to this story such as Katrina.
I found it difficult to relate to Isabella. If I find it hard to relate to the female lead of a story, it's difficult for me to fully enjoy the story. I found her dialogue cringey and awkward at times.
This book has the 'enemies to lovers' aspect with a slow burn. I think the tension could have been more intense. The transition from enemies to lovers happened very quickly.
Thankyou for NetGalley for the arc.

A very interesting enemies to lovers romantasy, this novel will interest everyone who is looking for their next fix! A spicy romance, interesting fantasy world, and solid plot rounds out this newest edition to the romantasy lore and I will definitely be recommending it to everyone I meet!

I loved this magical romantasy book with dramoine- vibes!
This one is for fellow fantasy readers.

Thank you Sarah Maria Page and the Nerd Fam team for my physical copy of this beautiful book!

Thank you for another great ARC opportunity. The description had me really interested and I wanted to love it, but it was just ok for me. It was an easy read but just fell a little short. I never felt fully invested.

When a book is really beautiful, you'll find yourself tearing up for no reason. So here I am, writing a review after tearing up for no reason.

I have no idea how I'm supposed to wait for the sequel. This book actually killed me.

Illusion of Stars is a romantasy following Isabel and Erik through a world teetering on the edge of pain and destruction. This book has so many swoon-worthy moments that had me squealing into my hand at 12 am

Here are the tropes:

✨️ Enemies-to-Lovers
✨️ One Horse
✨️ Forced Proximity
✨️ She's a spy, He's her mark
✨️ Slow-burn
✨️ Dramione - Coded

Thank you to Sarah Marie Page, Victory Editing Netgalley Co-op, and Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!!!

I loved how the author went about world-building, it wasn't confusing and I felt eased into the world. I loved Isabel's character, she was strong and determined but still felt different from traditional fantasy FMCs, which I loved. Erik was hot. Honestly, I found him very very cool, both his powers and him in general. I loved how the two were emotionally available and soft with each other.

I think my favorite part of the book other than Erik and Isabel was this legend within the story. It was only featured for a couple of pages but that's what drew me into the story the most, especially with how I think the legend will come into play later in the series.

The ending had me in tears but honestly, it was a well-written ending, I loved it so much.

Illusion of Stars releases July 16th, 2024. This book is perfect if you love romantasy and all these tropes!

If you love love, you'll love Illusion of Stars 💖

------------------------
The Instagram review will be posted on 7/12/2024!!

Let me start by saying I so badly wanted to love this book. Reading the description and seeing that it was Dramione adjacent alone had me sold. I loved the concept of each and every character and I was intrigued by the Scandinavian roots of this story. The first half of the book I really struggled to get into. I took several breaks and came back to it really hoping it would catch. It wasn’t until the last twenty percent of the book that I really started to get invested in the story. That being said, I do believe the plot has such great potential. I do plan on reading the rest of the series because I feel like this is just the foundations for a much more riveting story to be born.
This story follows Isabel, a healer’s apprentice in a kingdom on the brink of war. After undergoing traumatic events, she is sent on a mission. A mission that puts her in the path of her enemy. This is where she meets Erik, who soon turns everything on its head for her. Erik is the cold, determined son of the neighboring country’s general. Erik’s character is extremely calculating and very similar to the Draco Malfoy we all know and love.
Even though this story didn’t grip me as much as I hoped it would, I still encourage anyone who is looking for a quick enemies to lovers read! Thank you Sarah and Netgalley for giving me the chance to read this one!!

Such a unique and interesting story!

First things first, I think it's important to note (and remember) that this story is being "written" by our FMC while she is in prison. There are times where the story seems to jump around or maybe doesn't make full sense, but if you remember this fact, it actually makes perfect sense.

This story is entirely by the POV of Isabel a "nobody" physician's apprentice who is sent to woo the enemy general's son, Erik. From there is where our enemies to lovers story start.

I love Isabel. She is flawed, she is smart, she is insecure and unsure of herself and bless her....she is so awkward. The best part about that is that this is called out on several occasions, and just helps the reader not feel so alone in the awkwardness. It's subtly funny.

Isabel will tell you that she isn't brave. However, watching her journey as she is spying on Erik, she is way braver than she would ever give herself credit for. I love when FMCs are underestimated (which she is), but I love when they underestimate themselves more.

The banter In this story was great. I found myself wanting to skip ahead to the banter on the page (don't worry, I always doubled back) it was so good.

The magic system in this world is really unique. And when I say that I mean that I haven't read one at all like this before, and that's saying something.

The world building was so subtle and inconspicuous when certain things reveal themselves, you find yourself with a face-palm action shouting "of course!"

There is found family, enemies to lovers, betrayals of the highest power (and I mean the highest), and an ending that will leave you wanting SO much more.

I enjoyed this story and I hope that you do too!

Overall: Recommend!

The book was a little slower paced for me, and some of the language that was used and how it was used isn’t really my cup of tea. However, the magic and the world was very interesting and intriguing! I know lots of people will absolutely adore this story!