Phantasma by Kaylie Smith
“In a different life, in a fair one, I would’ve kept you until my eternal soul withered away to dust.”
ATTWB Book Review: Phantasma by Kaylie Smith
ATTWB Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Gothic Fantasy Romance
Introduction: I found the premise of this book highly appealing. I love anything set in New Orleans and games and trials are always intriguing. The unique setting and the mix of fantasy and gothic elements were fun. It reminded me of Caraval but an adult version. However, I had a love-hate relationship with Phantasma. Throughout the book, I went back and forth between really liking it and finding it cringey. There were moments when I almost didn't finish it. The ending felt rushed and left many questions unanswered, with key plot points resolved too quickly and some storylines abandoned altogether. This lack of closure detracted from the overall impact of the story.
Plot Overview: Ophelia and Genevieve wake up to find their mom has passed away during the night. They perform a ritual to pass their mom’s powers to Ophelia through a locket. As part of a long line of necromancers, the family is a big part of New Orleans tourism. Ophelia’s been prepping for this role her whole life, while Genevieve has enjoyed more freedom.
Ophelia doesn't know their mom was deep in debt, and now their cherished home is at risk. Ophelia finds out Genevieve is aware of the financial trouble and confronts her leading to a big fight and Genevieve leaving. Ophelia learns that Genevieve might be at Phantasma, a demonic game that grants the winner’s wishes. Determined to find her sister, Ophelia enters Phantasma and meets a charming phantom named Blackwell. They make a deal, he helps her with the trials, and she helps him find the key to his release. The book follows their journey through the trials and their growing romance.
Final Thoughts: While it had a lot of potential and is worth reading for its imaginative world-building and the romance between Ophelia and Blackwell, the abrupt ending and inconsistent tone leave much to be desired. If you're someone who enjoys a book with a strong start but can overlook a rushed conclusion, then this might be for you. Otherwise, be prepared for a bit of a letdown.
