Mirage

I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book; all opinions and thoughts are my own.

What to say about this book...

Well, I guess my major feeling, what I think of first when I think of this book is: I don't think much happened. It is unfortunate that I think this book feels like a prequel or set up for the rest of the story. Now, this isn't to say nothing happens– there are a few keep plot points... which I'm sure the next book will bring up. It just seems like there isn't much conflict and for someone being a body double of a princess who is being targeted, there should have more of a worried feeling to it.
I suppose I'm a bit tired of the first book in series not being able to stand on its own.

Yet, I was entertained while reading this. I didn't continue to look at the clock– I was waiting for more. This is an interesting concept, with vast characters to pull upon to give the book more oomph. I'm hoping that the next book will have more of the characters I'm interested in: Maram, the rebel leader, Amani's brothers, and a few more.

I wasn't a huge fan on Amani... I would have liked something more... I don't know it felt like something was missing to me. She has a lot of potential, like Idris, but sometimes they felt smoothed over – not much conflict so they didn't have chances to shine. Also, their romance felt like it happened so, so quick. especially how deep they fell for each other.

But, the setting and world-building, I think, were done well. There is Moroccan rep here which is something I've never seen or read about before. I didn't always remember the sci-fi elements when there wasn't space travel– this is an interesting mix of a futuristic setting while having a ton of historic feel.

So, will I read the next one? Most likely. I'm interested enough in the story and want to see some things really start to move. I'd recommend this if you like slight sci-fi and don't mind a slow start to a series to really get you involved in the world.