Phantasma by Kaylie Smith

This early review copy was provided to me by Forever Publishing through NetGalley. This in no way impacts the rating of the book. All of my reviews contain my honest opinions.

Title: Phantasma

Author: Kaylie Smith

Release Date: September 3, 2024

Publisher: Forever Publishing

Genre: Paranormal, Romantasy

Source: digital, NetGalley

TW: blood, graphic sexual content, gore, death, mental illness, murder, violence, death of parent

Synopsis

Welcome to Phantasma.

There are only two rules to the game. Stay alive. And don’t fall in love.

When Ophelia’s sister disappears, there is only one way to save her. Ophelia must enter Phantasma, a deadly contest inside a haunted mansion, and claim its prize—a single wish. Phantasma is a maze of twisting corridors and lavish ballrooms, of demons and temptations. Ophelia will face nine challenges, each more dangerous than the last. There can only be one winner, and the other contestants will stop at nothing to eliminate their rivals.

Every day the house creates new monsters. But just as Ophelia’s fears threaten to overwhelm her, a mysterious stranger offers her a bargain. Charming, arrogant and infuriatingly attractive, Blackwell claims he can guide her through the lethal trials ahead. All he asks in return is ten years of her life.

Ophelia knows she shouldn’t trust him. Blackwell doesn’t seem dangerous, but appearances can be deceptive. Worse still, she feels a dark and irresistible attraction drawing them closer and closer. Her life is on the line.

But in Phantasma, the only thing deadlier than losing the game is losing your heart…

Thoughts

I recently finished reading Phantasma by Kaylie Smith, and wow, what a ride! This book took me on a thrilling adventure that felt like a darker, steamier, and bloodier version of Caraval. While there were definitely some parallels to that series, Phantasma stood out with its unique twists and hauntingly creative world. Kaylie Smith masterfully crafted a story that feels both familiar and new, keeping me engaged from start to finish.

Set in a twisted and terrifying mansion, the story revolves around Ophelia, who must enter the deadly contest of Phantasma to save her sister. The mansion itself is a labyrinth of horrors, with each challenge pulling from the deepest fears of its contestants. I loved how the house created new monsters every day, adding to the ever-present sense of danger. What really stood out to me, though, was the hidden mystery woven throughout the plot. The pieces felt a bit disjointed at times, but it kept me guessing and intrigued until the very end.

One of the highlights for me was the character of Blackwell, the infuriatingly charming and morally gray stranger who offers Ophelia a deal. His history and mystery added depth to the story, and their growing chemistry definitely brought the heat. Ophelia herself was a compelling protagonist—her sheltered life and the burden of her family’s legacy made her someone I could easily root for.

The house of horrors concept, combined with a plot full of danger and temptation, made this a thrilling read. If you’re a fan of high-stakes fantasy with seductive romance, morally gray characters, and plenty of twists, Phantasma is a must-read.

If you loved A Court of Thorns and Roses or Caraval, I highly recommend giving Phantasma a try. You won’t be disappointed! Be sure to check it out now, and don’t forget to follow me for more reviews and recommendations!