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A review by zaiphon
Phantasma by Kaylie Smith
adventurous
dark
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
This book absolutely delivered in keeping me invested and entertained. The connection between Ophelia and Blackwell gave some funny moments, banter, tension, and spice all in the midst of a deadly trials-like competition. The POV is told through our FMC, Ophelia, as she is trying to come to terms with her Mother's passing as well as what this means for her and her family's lineage and history. She winds up looped into the gothic manor of Phantasma, where we meet some interesting characters throughout the trials that awaits them all.
I loved the vibes and aesthetic, and I also felt that Smith did a great job in keeping things interesting and moving at a great pace. I wished we had some more time to develop additional connections with the other contestants at Phantasma further. Once it was reaching its climax and major twist, it felt like a majority of these characters were easily discarded. I feel Smith's writing would have empowered these characters as their own a little further and made things more impactful. I realize this is continuing in the series and while it looks like we are getting a new POV in book 2, I am hoping these characters can make an appearance and be a part of the story.
Overall I loved:
- Romance
- Fast paced action with some plot twists scattered throughout
- Luci (need more of her!)
- Introduction to the world within Phantasma (though I was hoping for a little more)
I loved the vibes and aesthetic, and I also felt that Smith did a great job in keeping things interesting and moving at a great pace. I wished we had some more time to develop additional connections with the other contestants at Phantasma further. Once it was reaching its climax and major twist, it felt like a majority of these characters were easily discarded. I feel Smith's writing would have empowered these characters as their own a little further and made things more impactful. I realize this is continuing in the series and while it looks like we are getting a new POV in book 2, I am hoping these characters can make an appearance and be a part of the story.
Overall I loved:
- Romance
- Fast paced action with some plot twists scattered throughout
- Luci (need more of her!)
- Introduction to the world within Phantasma (though I was hoping for a little more)