A review by shutkicrew
Phantasma by Kaylie Smith

dark tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

I picked up Phantasma while on holiday and was hooked within a few chapters. The plot was engaging throughout, and the OCD representation was thoughtful and authentic, something I do not often see done well. At first, the mix of language and clothing descriptions left me unsure about the time period, but once I stopped trying to figure it out, the gothic atmosphere completely pulled me in.

I had not read the books people compare this to, so I went in with low expectations, but I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it. The moody, immersive vibes gave the story a haunting quality that stayed with me long after I finished.

My only real complaint is that the ending felt rushed, with the resolution coming too quickly for my taste. I would have loved more time to sit with the conclusion and the characters. 
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