Phantasma

4.5 stars overall.This book…this book was AMAZING. For so long I’ve been looking for something that was like this without even realising it. It’s like Caraval, just darker, spicy and more gruesome. Going into it I was a bit apprehensive but I’m so glad I continued because it’s SO good. I was expecting something a little different with the romance, but it turned out just as good as I was expecting. Though, I do wish there was a little more involvement of the other Devils in the book, to add a little more flair, but it is still good as it is.

Phantasma was an engaging and enjoyable read, even though it didn’t completely surprise me. The mystery surrounding the world and especially the game itself was genuinely interesting and kept me turning the pages. There’s a strong sense of intrigue that makes you want to understand how everything works and where it’s all heading.The beginning did take some getting used to. The story drops you into the world without much explanation, which can feel disorienting at first, but once you settle into the rhythm, it becomes easier to follow. That said, the pacing wasn’t always consistent. There were several sections that felt like filler, and I couldn’t help but feel that the book could have been at least 100 pages shorter without losing any of its impact.While I enjoyed the journey, most of the plot twists were fairly predictable for me. I could see them coming from quite a distance, which took away some of the tension. Still, the execution was solid, and the atmosphere and concept were strong enough to keep me invested despite that.Overall, Phantasma may not have surprised me, but it did entertain me. It’s an interesting, immersive story with a compelling premise, and even with its flaws, I had a good time reading it.

-> 3.5 starsThis book was SUCH a good time. I enjoyed reading Phantasma so much!I went in completely blind. I was told "this book is for the Danny Phantom girls" and that was all I needed to know. Disclaimer: Im not a general fan of Romantasy.This book had trials, which im a fan of if there's some originality. The book did a great job of keeping me hooked on the haunts and trials, the plot was very engaging.The romance was unfortunately VERY much insta-lust. I did enjoy their banter though!My biggest pet peeve in fantasy series recently, has been interconnected standalones with a romance per book. Its just so hard to get behind romances that go from strangers to lovers in 400pages. so it's more of a me issue. I didn't know it was interconnected till I finished the book and knowing before hand might have made me care for the romance/smut more.I will be reading Enchantra, like I said, I had a great time so hoping book 2s plot will help me along. I'm excited for the FMC being plus size but not looking forward to another Shadow Daddy unfortunately