Book Review: Illusions of Fate by Kiersten White

Illusions of Fate

Author: Kiersten White
Reading Level: Young Adult
Genre: Historical Romance and Fantasy
Released: September 9, 2014
Review Source: HarperTeen

“I did my best to keep you from crossing paths with this world. And I shall do my best to protect you now that you have.” 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 Finn, a gorgeous, enigmatic young lord 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, dangerous secrets that the vicious Lord Downpike will do anything to possess. Unless Jessamin, armed only with her wits and her determination, can stop him. Kiersten White captured readers’ hearts with her New York Times bestselling Paranormalcy trilogy and its effortless mix of magic and real-world teenage humor. She returns to that winning combination of wit, charm, and enchantment in Illusions of Fate, a sparkling and romantic new novel perfect for fans of Cassandra Clare, The Madman’s Daughter, and Libba Bray.

Starting a new Life.  Away from what you have always known.  As well as family traditions and friends.  Sometimes the adventure to newer ground can be a challenging one, sometimes even lonely.  Jessamin, is determined to succeed.  Determined to rise above others.  Determined to be the independent girl she wants to be.  Just when Jessamin thinks she is on this journey alone, in walks Finn.  A young man of great statue, class, and nobility.  Finn is ready to capture Jessamin's heart, however, a little secret stands in their way.  Maybe the secret isn't so small after all.  As it truly controls who they are and the world they live in.

Jessamin is striving to fit into a world that is unlike her own.  However, when Lord Downpike enters the picture everything changes.  Jessamin has something that he wants, which she tries very hard not to give up.  There is a lot of unspoken symbolism sprinkled throughout the novel.  A shadow of reflection makes its appearance throughout the novel, protecting Jessamin.  A raven of protection is also a very important feature of the novel.  It doesn't talk, but its actions speak louder than words.

This is the first novel that I've read by Kiersten White.  I must say that it will not be my last.  Ms. White's creative and original storyline truly kept me intrigued throughout the entire novel.

Just as a side note.  This book will always be in my memory.  I began near the end of Summer break when the oldest was headed to college.  Just had to share.