Genre: YA Fantasy
Published: September 9, 2014 by HarperTeen
Length: 288 pages
Source: HarperTeen (ARC)
“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.”
Illusions of Fate started off with a bang! Honestly guys, I’m surprised Kiersten White wrote this book. I wasn’t a fan of her duology (Mind Games) and when I saw the author’s name on the book I was like NO WAY THIS IS SO GOOD.
I love how the first few chapters were very mysterious, dark, and intriguing. I really loved the writing which reminded me of Cassandra Clare’s The Infernal Devices trilogy. It had a historical feel to it even though this is a fantasy book. It does have magical elements that I wish we got to see more of. I don’t think the magical part were explained clearly enough for me to be amazed by it.
The main character, Jessamin, also reminded me of Tessa from TID because they both were determined, headstrong, and kind of a brat at times. Finn, the love interest, was very intriguing especially during the first chapter. I think he’s the reason why I kept on reading. I wanted to get to know more of him and why he was following Jessamin. Sadly, he remains mysterious throughout the book and I only got to know a snippet of his life.
Unfortunately, I did have some issues with Illusions of Fate. The book became a bit confusing towards the middle due to the characters’ actions. After finishing the book, I was still looking for answers which is not good since this is a standalone book. I really wanted to give this 4 stars but I can’t because of my unanswered questions. Also, I think the world building was confusing as hell. The descriptions are very vague and I assumed that the MC did not know anything about magic, but I guess she does because when her love interest said he had magic, she doesn’t seem surprised. The romance was weird because Jessamin and Finn are strangers to each other, but Jessamin trusted Finn too quickly then next thing you know they fell “in love” with each other?!
Overall it was still a very good read. I just hope some stuff were clearer in the book so that I was able to enjoy it more. I still recommend it if you are a fan of Cassandra Clare’s writing.
