Description

Downton Abbey meets Cassandra Clare in this lush, romantic fantasy from Kiersten White, #1 New York Times bestselling author of And I Darken.

“Illusions of Fate is an absolute delight—a magical, sparkling, dangerous world with witty repartee and a romance that will light your heart on fire. Kiersten White’s best yet.”—Stephanie Perkins, New York Times bestselling author of Anna and the French Kiss

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 the gorgeous, enigmatic Finn, who introduces her to the secret world of Albion's nobility. It’s a world that has everything Jessamin doesn't—power, money, status . . . and magic. But Finn has secrets of his own, and the vicious Lord Downpike will do anything to possess them. Unless Jessamin, armed only with her wits, can stop him.

Readers who love Libba Bray, Cassanda Clare, or Susanna Clarke’s Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell won’t want to miss this captivating stand-alone novel.


  • A Secret World of Magic: In the dreary country of Albion, the nobility guard more than just their wealth. Jessamin is about to discover they wield a power she never imagined.
  • Witty Banter: He’s an enigmatic lord with a savior complex. She’s an outcast from the island of Melei who is immune to his charms—or so she claims.
  • Forbidden Romance: A connection sparks between the privileged lord and the penniless student, but in a world built on status, their feelings could be the most dangerous secret of all.
  • Historical Fantasy: Lush settings, glittering parties, and the rigid rules of high society clash with hidden magic, creating a world readers won’t want to leave.

About the author(s)

Kiersten White is the New York Times bestselling author of the Paranormalcy trilogy, The Chaos of Stars, and the psychological thrillers Mind Games and Perfect Lies. She has neither magic nor a pet bird, but wants both. Kiersten lives with her family in San Diego, California.

Reviews

“A wicked plot twist will have readers gasping for air, and a happy ending, complete with a swoonworthy kiss, is likely to please.” - Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

“Deliciously original in its intriguing plot and irresistible characters. ILLUSIONS OF FATE may be filled with spells, but it’s Kiersten White who is truly magic.” - Andrea Cremer, international bestselling author of the Nightshade series

“Illusions of Fate is an absolute delight—a magical, sparkling, dangerous world with witty repartee and a romance that will light your heart on fire. Kiersten White’s best yet.” - Stephanie Perkins, internationally bestselling author of Anna and the French Kiss

“An enticing blend of Victorian scenery and dark magic.” - ALA Booklist

“Inventive, fun, and enthralling from the first page to the last. Readers will find a new favorite protagonist in Jessamin Olea.” - Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA)

“This well-written historical fantasy has romance, suspense, a fairy-tale feel, and a great ending that will leave readers cheering.” - School Library Journal

More Historical

More Historical

More Action & Adventure

More Paranormal