Invisible

by Sonja J. Kaye

Life’s a mess for seventeen-year-old Olivia: she lost her mother, is sent to live with a foster family in England, and now her heartbreak unlocks a dormant Talent, a supernatural ability no one else in the world has. Turns out, that little sleepwalking problem she’s had all her life is a fickle teleportation skill that promptly drops her into the Alaskan wilderness. Thanks a lot. Much to the dismay of her feminist pride, a grouchy bear puts her in dire need of saving—by a guy. Brilliant.

Nineteen-year-old Jo has secrets he can’t ever share. If he does, he’s dead. Keeping hidden is the only way to free himself from the person forcing him to live in the woods. His rules for survival: stay invisible, stay focused, and for the love of life, do not talk to anyone. Easier said than done when this beautiful, sad girl keeps bouncing back to Alaska, cracking his locked heart wide open.

Drawn deeper into Jo’s secretive spell and the inexplicable bond they share, Olivia investigates why her Talent keeps dragging her back to him, only to suspect he might be connected to the mystery surrounding her missing father who disappeared before she was born. When Jo, desperate to escape the life he’s trapped in to be with the soulmate he never thought he’d find, confronts the person behind his deadly secrets, he’s faced with a Talented mastermind whose blood runs in his veins. Now Olivia must save the boy in the wild from a killer, even when they turn their eyes on her.

In this wildly romantic YA/crossover cozy fantasy, emotions and mystery weave into an unforgettable tale of love and loss, secrets and suspense, and intrigue and magic. Ideal for fans of deep yearning, atmospheric nature settings, and heart-shattering romance.

360 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication September 3, 2026

About the author

Sonja J. Kaye is the author of Adult and Young Adult fiction, ranging from romantic fantasy to mystery & thriller. She was born in Europe and spent many years in New Zealand before settling in Australia, where she currently lives with her family, a bouncy dog and a grumpy cat. (Please note: Sonja does not use AI in any stage of writing or producing her books).

Reviews

[Felicity Oberg · Rating 4 out of 5]

He was the loneliest person in the whole wide world, comfortably so, and yet love fell at his feet (literally). A shadow in the woods, a secret hidden in Alaska’s wild, beating heart. A weapon in the wrong hands. Only her magic can find him—and save them both.

19 year old Jo has lived a life of loneliness. Trained for one purpose, his life is planned beyond all thought of independence. His heart is empty, his life is destined. He will fulfil his duty and then possibly find something that looks like freedom.

Olivia's world is shattered after her mother's death, forcing her to move overseas to a foster family she never knew existed. But that isn't the half of it. It turns out that the father she had always been told died whilst she was a baby could be alive, that she has inherited a supernatural power from him, oh and this power could be the only way to find him and bring him home.

Sonja J. Kaye has painted the wilderness of the Alaskan forests and coastlines of the UK in such a way that you can almost smell and taste the two distinct landscapes. Her unique take on the magical world and "talents" is refreshing. I love the idea that the talented use their powers to better the world/civilisation around them. And that whilst you have to be born into a talented family, that your "talent" is unpredictable and not inherited from a parent.

Invisible is a truly emotional book. One that will pull on your heart strings in so many different ways. Sonja has poured her soul into this book and it shows. The characters feel authentic because each of them carries their grief differently, making their choices and relationships feel believable. Their stories are so unique yet relatable that you can't help but feel their pain. Ultimately this is a book about grief in all its forms; Olivia is grieving the loss of her Mother, Jimmy/Pete the loss of their best friend, Jo grieves the "normal" upbringing every child should have. But it is also about love conquering all; whether its soul love, the love of found family or that of friends willing to never give up. There is a real hopeful and loving undertone to the whole novel.

Invisible is a heartfelt fantasy that blends magic, grief and hope into a story that's as emotional as it is imaginative. If you enjoy character-driven fantasy with found family, slow-burn romance and an original magic system, this is well worth picking up. As a debut author, Sonja J. Kaye has me invested. I am looking forward to the second installment in this series; not only to see how Olivia and Jo's love story develops but to find out what Lojana has instore!

Thank you to Sonja J. Kaye for the gifted eARC - I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

"Some surprises in life aren't pleasant. Some even make you struggle more than you think you can bear. Still I wouldn't go without it. That's what life is about - the unplanned, unexpected, unpredictable. You can't know what's going to happen tomorrow. And sometimes, new opportunities arise from the unexpected that you never could've dreamt of."

[Ashley Salzman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a slow reader. Painfully. I read this in 2 days. It had me literally doing nothing other than reading until I finished. With that being said, the story is centered around our 2 MCs, 17 year old FMC Olivia and 19 year old MMC Jo. Olivia is haunted by the recent death of her mother and is soon sent to England to live with a foster family. She believes her father to be dead for the past 18 years, so she has no other family. In the midst of her grief she begins developing a supernatural ability or “Talent” of teleportation. She finds herself continuously accidentally teleporting to the Alaskan wilderness in front of recluse Jo.

Jo is a very mysterious character and holds a lot of secrets. He wants to know Olivia but he’s too afraid to let her know him. After all his rule of survival has been to remain invisible these past two years. Even more mysteries begin to unfold when she begins to suspect he may have something to do with her father’s disappearance and the connections with her newfound family. Not to mention that a murderer from his past is forcing him to go on a mission that could utterly destroy the Talented community—or Olivia’s life might be on the line.

Holy crap! It truly was a transportive story for me. Did I sometimes suspect things that were going to happen? Yes. But the main characters and definitely all of the side characters made the entire story so good. Our FMC has been through it. Her grieving process is painfully described and it makes her all the more relatable. This is a definite must read and I just can’t wait for book 2!! Thank you to the author for allowing me the opportunity to read this ARC for my honest review.

[Danisbooklife · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review | Invisible by Sonja J. Kaye

Invisible is a beautifully written YA fantasy that blends mystery, magic, romance, and the breathtaking wilderness of Alaska into a story that completely swept me away.

Olivia and Jo were such compelling characters. Olivia’s journey of grief, self-discovery, and learning to embrace her newly awakened Talent felt authentic, while Jo’s hidden life and heartbreaking secrets made him impossible not to side with. Their slow-building connection is filled with longing, tenderness, and just the right amount of tension.

The magical elements are woven seamlessly into the story, creating an intriguing mystery that kept me turning the pages. I especially loved the vivid descriptions of the Alaskan landscape—it became a character in its own right, adding so much atmosphere to every scene. 🐻

I loved this hidden identity, can’t put it down sorry with soul-deep romance, emotional character growth, and a touch of suspense read. My heart was racing anxiously throughout! Invisible deserves a spot on your TBR. Sonja J. Kaye has created a captivating debut that leaves you eager for more.

Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. All thoughts are my own.

[Bookish Things with Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5/5)

Okay… I need book two, like NOW 😭

I don’t want to say too much because I think this is one of those books that’s best to go into knowing as little as possible and just enjoy the story unfolding.

I loved how the fantasy, mystery, and romance all blended together without one overshadowing the others 🪄🔍💖

I loved the whole Knox family. Pete, Rylie, Marvin, and Ener were some of my favourite characters, and I loved how they took Olivia in after everything she’d been through and made her one of their own. Even through all the loss and heartbreak, they were such a bright spot. 🫶🏼

And Jo… by the end, all I wanted was for him to finally get the life he deserved 🥹

📖 You might like this if you enjoy:
🌍 Real-world magic
🌿 Feral magic
🌲 Mysterious MMC living alone in the woods
🎨 Artist FMC
🫶🏼 Found family
🗡️ Touch her and die
🍂 Autumn & winter vibes
💔 Loss and grief
🩹 Wound tending
💕 Fated love

My only problem? Now I have to impatiently wait for book two because I need to know what happens next. This is definitely a series I’ll be continuing 😍

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am in love with this book. This was an amazing read with a beautiful and magical plot. The main characters were both so well written, the intrigue of Jo along with Olivia’s vulnerability and strength made for an incredible read. It had me hooked and obsessed, I had to keep reading until I finished the book. I love a book where the side characters can make you laugh and have you wanting to know more and more about them and Invisible did just that. They were so funny and loveable and every moment I got with them I enjoyed.

There were so many beautiful quotes within this book. It’s been a while since I read a book where I hate having responsibilities that keep me from reading but Invisible did just that.

“Our eyes connect, and within Jo’s, I find a drop of peace”

“like the world is coming undone in the seam created by our hands”

I truly loved every second of reading this and I can’t wait to read more from Sonja.

[Danielle · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC from the author.

I give this book 3.5 stars. It has a good concept and overarching story, but I just don’t think it was for me.
The story follows 17 YO Olivia’s life after the death of her mother, and going to live in England with her mum’s good friends, where she discovers that she has a magical ability. With her ability, “beaming”, she meets Jo, a 19 YO living alone in the wilderness, that doesn’t understand concepts like not undressing in front of others, but does know what it means to be a “red flag”.
It’s very Twilight-esque in the sense that the two main characters, Olivia and Jo, have a very short courtship before declaring their love for each other, and his “I’m not good for you” pushing away and her depression from it (after only 3 short acquaintances).

I found it predictable and the writing a bit too simple for my liking.

I would recommend this book for high school aged teens, but it wasn’t for me.

[Cinnamon Barnsley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Real World Magic, Mystery MMC, Fated Love, Touch Her & Die, Found Family, Loss & Grief, Artist FMC, Wound Tending & Moody Forest Vibes

I devoured this! Such a creative story. I found this read very original. The world building was constructed so well, with bread crumbs spread from start to finish which gave the last portion of the book such an amazing reveal.

I loved all the characters. Such real and raw representations of what the loss of loved ones does to a person's well-being. I definitely teared up as each person navigated their grief and came to the realization of how addressing your trauma, while as difficult, confronting and heavy as it can be, it is ultimately the most important turning point you can make.

Witnessing the characters embark on healing journeys together, realizing that their found family is there for them all the wat through it and learning to trust one and another was beautiful.

I cannot wait for the next book and I am already have withdrawals

[Iampikalu · Rating 4 out of 5]

[ARC Review]

Invisible
By Sonja J. Kaye

⭐⭐⭐ ⭐

"I may not know all about you, but I do know your heart. If anyone knows my heart it's you. It is yours."


"This story was intriguing, I didn't know where it was going, I liked the unique magic powers and I would of loved more in depth character arcs although Jo was a mystery until the end so I'm hoping book two will shine some light and we can actually get to know him better, and more about Olivia's painting it was a shame we didn't get so see that in action I have a feeling there's more to her powers then we know of, but otherwise I liked the story it was cozy although there was alot going on, it was actually a cozy read, I'm interested to see where it goes what else can happen, their love story is cute, and I loved the side characters as well!"

" thank you for letting me read it early!"

[nella · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a stunning and atmospheric debut! From page one, all the descriptions were so vivid and felt like I was experiencing the story as the characters were experiencing it too.

I absolutely loved the banter between Jo and Olivia. In fact, I found all the relationships charming in their own way. I think the author tackled Olivia's adjustment to her new family and powers well, and then contrasting that with Jo's upbringing was sooo good

The magic system was interesting, though the specifics were a bit vague, I can't wait to learn more about it in later books.

Overall, cozy, romantic, lovely!!!

[carlyrae · Rating 4 out of 5]

first, I would like to thank the wonderful author for the arc copy and the opportunity to receive this book and provide a review!

invisible is filled with great found family, magical “talents,” and a moody forest and mountain vibe.

if I had my own talent I would wish it would be to communicate with animals, I just love that!

I am looking forward to the character development of olivia and watching her grow overall. I would love to learn more about the lysander family and their history too.

overall, this was a 3.5/5 ⭐️ and I cannot wait to see where this story goes!

[Katriona · Rating 4 out of 5]

The world building was descriptive, but I couldn’t picture where in England the story may be based.
My heart hurts for Jo, we are so in the dark about him until about 60% in and that intrigue is a big part of why I kept reading.
Olivia has her own trauma, but is more of an open book.
The secondary characters had their own voices too, all were memorable & played a part that I could understand.
Overall this story is intriguing & emotive. I look forward to the next.

[Sierra Scanlon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an extraordinary young adult fantasy that left me breathless and teary-eyed. The narrative is rich with suspense, pulling you into a world filled with magic and heart-wrenching moments.

The characters are beautifully developed, and the author masterfully balances high-stakes adventure with poignant emotional arcs. Each twist and turn keeps you reading and keeps you from putting the book down.

[Casey Louise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed my ARC read of Invisible! I read this within 3 days! As most fantasy over complicates the writing, Sonja has not done this. The world building is so beautifully described so you really picture being there yourself. The use of colours are so important to the story and characters too. I've described this as Encanto but YA. I'm very excited for the second book and highly recommend!

[Melissa The Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read an early version of this book and loved the mix of romance and magic and mystery that keeps you guessing until the end. Olivia's ability to teleport and unfortunate life circumstances makes her an interesting and likeable character. She's brave yet caring. This was a charming fantasy romance that was enjoyable and an easy read. Great addition to the TBR pile.

[Vanessasbooksta · Rating 4 out of 5]

A YA and adult Romantasy crossover.

Enjoyed the emotional healing, fate love, and moody forest vibes. Plus, the mystery and romantic suspense with Jo, made this a fun read!

🪄 Real world magic
🌲 Moody forest vibes
🕵️‍♂️ Mystery MMC
❤️ Fated love
🔥 Slow burn
☠️ Touch her and die
🫂 Found family

[Tammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute YA love story. The talents system was well thought out and executed. I enjoyed the pacing and the character development.

Thank you for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Cassandra Western · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you, Sonja Kaye for the eARC in return for an honest review.

This is a perfect YA book for those looking to get into a fantasy romance. It has your moody mountains, easy magic system, found family and insta love soul bond. The world building is simple yet very descriptive.

Olivia is a loving yet caring person with her own trauma. Jo is quiet and withdrawn person, who has been living on his own for a while, who carries his own traumas as well. He liked to keep himself closed off to Olivia; it made him very interesting as you just wanted to unravel him to get to know him and find out all about him.

Overall, this is a simple and fast read. I do look forward to seeing where this goes with book 2.

[Jessica Froberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the vivid descriptions and voice in this novel.

More detailed review to come!