Review – Amber & Dusk by Lyra Selene (4.5/5 stars)

“Sylvie has always known she deserves more. Out in the permanent twilight of the Dusklands, her guardians called her power to create illusions a curse. But Sylvie knows it gives her a place in Coeur d’Or, the palais of the Amber Empress and her highborn legacies.

So Sylvie sets off toward the Amber City, a glittering jewel under a sun that never sets, to take what is hers.

But her hope for a better life is quickly dimmed. The empress invites her in only as part of a wicked wager among her powerful courtiers. Sylvie must assume a new name, Mirage, and begin to navigate secretive social circles and deadly games of intrigue in order to claim her spot. Soon it becomes apparent that nothing is as it appears and no one, including her cruel yet captivating sponsor, Sunder, will answer her questions. As Mirage strives to seize what should be her rightful place, she’ll have to consider whether it is worth the price she must pay.”

This is the first book in the Amber & Dusk series. I ended up being surprised by how much I loved this book. Based on the description I wasn’t sure if I was going to enjoy this book or not. I read it in one day and was completely drawn into the story.

Sylvie is feared by others because of her powers of illusion. She decides to make a long journey to the palace of Coeur d’Or, where other people have “Legacies” like hers. Once she gets to Coeur d’Or she finds like things there are not the paradise she initially thought they would be.

This book has some fascinating world-building, amazing characters, and tons of interesting magic and intrigue. It’s very easy to read and flows well, I was completely sucked in and could not put it down. Mirage/Sylvie is an intriguing and complex character that I loved reading about. Sunder was equally fascinating.

Overall I really loved this book and can’t wait to read the next book in the series. I would recommend to fans of YA fantasy; especially those who enjoy intrigue and mystery in a fantasy setting.