Author: Madeline Taylor
Genre: Fantasy
Series: Verran Isles # 1
Publication: April 1, 2025
460 pages
Source: Libby Library
She is not the pet they tamed.
Blessed with the power of illusion, Iverson Pomeroy has many tricks up her sleeve. However, none of them are a match for the enchanted collar at her throat that keeps her bound as assassin and mistress to a ruthless king. Forced to play the role of his obedient pet, she plots in secret to destroy him and claim the freedom she has always been denied.
She is the beast they let inside.
When a mysterious reaper, Thorne, arrives in the city with his sights set on the same weapon Ivy needs—the only artifact that can remove her collar—she must decide how far she’s willing to go.
And she will show no mercy.
With a tenuous alliance tying them together, Ivy learns there is more to her reluctant companion than meets the eye... He sparks her curiosity and ignites dangerous desires within her. But will the secrets they harbor destroy each other? And does it even matter, when anyone who so much as touches Thorne dies?
MY THOUGHTS
Heir of Illusion had me from the very first page. Talk about one heck of an opening line! The book is being pitched as the “Next Romantasy Hit,” and honestly, I think we should retire the word romantasy because it’s becoming synonymous with mediocre books and poor writing (to me) which Heir of Illusion is absolutely not. It is so much more than what’s currently dominating the romantasy space. The worldbuilding and magic system felt refreshing and unique. I loved how the world was divided into different Isles and the Gods who inhabit them. The abilities granted by each God and how they manifest in the citizens and their heirs were fascinating to explore. The worldbuilding was complex enough to feel layered yet still easy to follow, which I appreciated. The writing was excellent, the pacing was great, and everything flowed so smoothly. Some dialogue might be considered modern for a fantasy setting, but because I was enjoying the story so much, it didn’t bother me at all.
Iverson was an amazing protagonist, flawed yet incredibly self-aware, which I appreciated. It was such a nice change from many current FMCs who are, frankly, oblivious and intolerable dolts. Iverson endured a terrible upbringing, and the more we learn about her, the easier it is to root for her. For a first book in a series, her growth felt realistic and very easy to emotionally connect with. She reminded me of old-school heroines: kickass with questionable decision-making at times, but ultimately full of heart. I like Thorne, for the most part. I’m still not entirely sure what to make of him because I’m not used to morally gray characters who openly express their feelings as easily as he does. He’s so understanding and considerate that it sometimes gave me pause. Still, Iverson and Thorne were fantastic leads, and I loved their early banter. The secondary characters were also well-developed and compelling. I adored Darrow, he was such an unexpected standout, and I’m glad we got more of him beyond the first chapter.
I truly thought I knew where this story was going, but I did not see those twists and turns coming! I love when a book can move me, keep me engaged, and genuinely surprise me. And the ending…Thorne…Iverson… absolutely brilliant! Heir of Illusion is an incredible start to a brand-new trilogy, and I cannot wait to read the next book. I’m shocked this is Taylor’s debut because the writing, worldbuilding, and plot were so impeccably done. For once, I wholeheartedly agree with the rave reviews, Heir of Illusion will be the next big fantasy obsession. One hundred percent earned. I highly recommend Heir of Illusion, such an incredible book!
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