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Facade
Evanee is cursed and bound to serve the Fae crown. With no memory of who she is or where she came from, survival means keeping her head down and obeying.
Until the Fae King’s sinfully alluring captain arrives to take her north to
Castle Lawryn—a place built on malice and cruelty.
Witches. Monsters. Werewolves. Gargoyles.
The world she thought she understood begins to unravel as Evanee fights to reclaim the memories stolen from her. But the truth lurking beneath the surface is far more dangerous than she imagined.
And in a realm built on blood and lies, one rule is absolute:
Trust no one.
Not even the one who sets your soul on fire.
Until the Fae King’s sinfully alluring captain arrives to take her north to
Castle Lawryn—a place built on malice and cruelty.
Witches. Monsters. Werewolves. Gargoyles.
The world she thought she understood begins to unravel as Evanee fights to reclaim the memories stolen from her. But the truth lurking beneath the surface is far more dangerous than she imagined.
And in a realm built on blood and lies, one rule is absolute:
Trust no one.
Not even the one who sets your soul on fire.
459 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 3, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
August 9, 2026
ARC Review
A human slave with no memory of the life stolen from her. A summons that pulls her into a world where power is currency, secrets are weapons, and everyone seems to have an agenda.
The deeper she goes, the more the blindfold slips, revealing rot beneath the surface, races at war, and plans that have been quietly converging around her.
Freedom. Conquest. Unknown motives.
The game is being played.. Not everyone knows they’re a piece.
This first book lays the board with deliciously dark intrigue, revealing just enough to leave you questioning who is pulling the strings and what happens when the pieces finally move.
For fantasy lovers who like their worlds dark, their secrets buried deep, and their power plays laced with danger. 🖤
Kelly (TheInkAddictsReads on Insta)
A human slave with no memory of the life stolen from her. A summons that pulls her into a world where power is currency, secrets are weapons, and everyone seems to have an agenda.
The deeper she goes, the more the blindfold slips, revealing rot beneath the surface, races at war, and plans that have been quietly converging around her.
Freedom. Conquest. Unknown motives.
The game is being played.. Not everyone knows they’re a piece.
This first book lays the board with deliciously dark intrigue, revealing just enough to leave you questioning who is pulling the strings and what happens when the pieces finally move.
For fantasy lovers who like their worlds dark, their secrets buried deep, and their power plays laced with danger. 🖤
Kelly (TheInkAddictsReads on Insta)
August 20, 2026
ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) review of ‘Facade’ by Ilissa Busbee
I was lucky enough to be selected as an ARC reader for this great book, which is released 3rd September 2026.
The story follows Evanee a human with no memories except for her last 3 years in captivity by the Fae. Her life suddenly changes as the Fae King has requested she be moved to his castle. Escorted by the loyal King’s guard.
Evanee is torn between the loyal guard taking her to a worse fate or the stranger that lurks in the shadows.
We are introduced to the Fae, Werewolves, Skurs, witches, Elementals and eventually Gargoyles. Ilissa world building is brilliant, you can really see yourself in each of the domains. I longed to see the Gargoyle land as much as some others.
The characters and the story build strongly throughout. Ilissa crafts a brilliant story full of intrigue. I loved discovering the mystery of Evanee’s memories with her, and making the decisions of who I trusted. The foreshadowing was brilliant and as every twist and turn unfolded -instead of having me confused I was screaming of course!
The supporting cast made it as well, all with interesting characters. Some more lovable than others. I particularly loved one particular POV chapter at the end from a side character that had be howling 🍌🍌(you’ll get what this means when you read it)
Ilissa used Evanee’s POV for the majority of the book but gave us further insight into the world by weaving in a few others.
The ending will have you furious with the Ilissa but demanding the next book immediately 🤣
100% Gargoyles are in
100% recommend
🌶️ Some spice
The tag is ‘Trust no one’ but I trust this author to give you a brilliant book.
If you love Gargoyles, Werewolves, characters discovering their true identities, magic and yearning. You’re going to love this book ❤️
Some quotes I loved
He was the night sky—white specs shining bright among the dark like starlight. I wanted to reach out and touch his wings—run my fingers over the leather expanse.
Even though he didn’t tell me he loved me, I felt it in the way he made love to me…
Just to prove how good I could bake. Admittedly, I forgot they were laced.
I was lucky enough to be selected as an ARC reader for this great book, which is released 3rd September 2026.
The story follows Evanee a human with no memories except for her last 3 years in captivity by the Fae. Her life suddenly changes as the Fae King has requested she be moved to his castle. Escorted by the loyal King’s guard.
Evanee is torn between the loyal guard taking her to a worse fate or the stranger that lurks in the shadows.
We are introduced to the Fae, Werewolves, Skurs, witches, Elementals and eventually Gargoyles. Ilissa world building is brilliant, you can really see yourself in each of the domains. I longed to see the Gargoyle land as much as some others.
The characters and the story build strongly throughout. Ilissa crafts a brilliant story full of intrigue. I loved discovering the mystery of Evanee’s memories with her, and making the decisions of who I trusted. The foreshadowing was brilliant and as every twist and turn unfolded -instead of having me confused I was screaming of course!
The supporting cast made it as well, all with interesting characters. Some more lovable than others. I particularly loved one particular POV chapter at the end from a side character that had be howling 🍌🍌(you’ll get what this means when you read it)
Ilissa used Evanee’s POV for the majority of the book but gave us further insight into the world by weaving in a few others.
The ending will have you furious with the Ilissa but demanding the next book immediately 🤣
100% Gargoyles are in
100% recommend
🌶️ Some spice
The tag is ‘Trust no one’ but I trust this author to give you a brilliant book.
If you love Gargoyles, Werewolves, characters discovering their true identities, magic and yearning. You’re going to love this book ❤️
Some quotes I loved
He was the night sky—white specs shining bright among the dark like starlight. I wanted to reach out and touch his wings—run my fingers over the leather expanse.
Even though he didn’t tell me he loved me, I felt it in the way he made love to me…
Just to prove how good I could bake. Admittedly, I forgot they were laced.
September 1, 2026
FREAKING WHAAATTTTTT!!! This book, ok first thank you for trusting me with your baby! This book though was sooooooo good, holy shiitake mushroom haha!
If you like:
🪨 Gargoyles
❤️🔥 yearning/slowburn
🔮 witches
🩶 morally grey men
❓ who can you trust?
❌ forbidden romance
☠️ touch her and 💀
💞 found family
The FMC Evanee and Anish- they are bad asses!!! Seems soft at first but they you appreciate the grit and hard work. They are fiercely loyal! A little broken hearted but dang they are cool!
The MMCs Ryker and Aiden who doesn’t love a broody morally grey man 🤭let’s be honest
Don’t get me started on the friends.. Lyra.. iykyk! 🤣
Also, screw Cressida.. I hate her. Mmmk. lol.
I don’t want to give anything away. But the character building was flawless. The world building is so so good! The writing style was stellar! It had me one the edge of my seat, in my emotions. Cackling.. and the ending…
A damn cliffhanger! This book is going to give me a hangover!! Holy crap! Just go read it ASAP!
If you like:
🪨 Gargoyles
❤️🔥 yearning/slowburn
🔮 witches
🩶 morally grey men
❓ who can you trust?
❌ forbidden romance
☠️ touch her and 💀
💞 found family
The FMC Evanee and Anish- they are bad asses!!! Seems soft at first but they you appreciate the grit and hard work. They are fiercely loyal! A little broken hearted but dang they are cool!
The MMCs Ryker and Aiden who doesn’t love a broody morally grey man 🤭let’s be honest
Don’t get me started on the friends.. Lyra.. iykyk! 🤣
Also, screw Cressida.. I hate her. Mmmk. lol.
I don’t want to give anything away. But the character building was flawless. The world building is so so good! The writing style was stellar! It had me one the edge of my seat, in my emotions. Cackling.. and the ending…
A damn cliffhanger! This book is going to give me a hangover!! Holy crap! Just go read it ASAP!
September 3, 2026
Me: I’ll just read one chapter before bed
Also me at 2am: still awake because of GARGOYLES. Actual gargoyles. In a book. As main characters. I did not see that coming and I am SO here for it.
This one does not slow down for you. From the very first pages it’s fast-paced, unpredictable, and honestly one of the more unique romantasy premises I’ve come across in a while, it doesn’t lean on the tropes you’re used to seeing, it earns every twist. Between the witches, monsters, werewolves, and yes, gargoyles, the world-building alone is worth the read, but it’s the pacing that really got me, every time I thought I had a handle on where the story was going, it pulled the rug out.
If you want a book that grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go, this is it. The kind of read that eats your whole evening before you notice the sun went down.
Also me at 2am: still awake because of GARGOYLES. Actual gargoyles. In a book. As main characters. I did not see that coming and I am SO here for it.
This one does not slow down for you. From the very first pages it’s fast-paced, unpredictable, and honestly one of the more unique romantasy premises I’ve come across in a while, it doesn’t lean on the tropes you’re used to seeing, it earns every twist. Between the witches, monsters, werewolves, and yes, gargoyles, the world-building alone is worth the read, but it’s the pacing that really got me, every time I thought I had a handle on where the story was going, it pulled the rug out.
If you want a book that grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go, this is it. The kind of read that eats your whole evening before you notice the sun went down.
August 17, 2026
First off I’d like to thank Arthur Ilissa Busbee for allowing me to arc read her book 📖🩷.
I usually don’t love amnesia storylines, but Facade completely worked for me. I loved Evanee, the male leads, and the constant feeling that there was always something else to uncover. The pacing was really well done too. Just enough action, just enough character development, and it never felt slow or rushed.
I finished with answers, more questions, and a very real need for book two.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I usually don’t love amnesia storylines, but Facade completely worked for me. I loved Evanee, the male leads, and the constant feeling that there was always something else to uncover. The pacing was really well done too. Just enough action, just enough character development, and it never felt slow or rushed.
I finished with answers, more questions, and a very real need for book two.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
September 3, 2026
I created a goodreads just so I could share the beat down Facade by Ilissa Busbee put on my heart.
Long story short:
I have been emotionally compromised and this author is responsible.
Long story long:
Please understand, the front facing story itself is compelling because if I had to work as a tortured house slave with amnesia for three years, then go through the emotional whiplash of being romanced by a coward and the devil (MMCs), I definitely wouldn’t have quite the same will to live as Evanee (FMC).
It genuinely feels like our girl hasn’t been able to catch a break since birth and it has me rooting for her.
But it is the secondary FMC Aniah who has my whole heart!
The regret!
The strength!
The accountability!
The (Literal and figurative) torture!
The brief three minutes of happiness!
Aniah takes it on the chin again and again and again. She never loses focus. She stays loyal. She always keeps the good of the world and the big picture in her mind’s eye, no matter how physically and emotionally painful it is for her. She fights against her “nature” to do what she knows to be right.
I wish I could list everything that makes all six paragraphs of her love story one of my top five romances of all time, but I don’t know if that’s considered bad manners and I’m trying not to spoil the story for anyone.
The author has a great talent for setting the scene.
The character descriptions are vivid - I found myself doodling them as I was reading.
The idea to use gargoyles (Because who didn’t have a crush on Goliath when they were young) was so creative.
I truly love that the author chose to use a creature that doesn’t abide by the typical standards of beauty but still comes off as incredibly attractive.
Also, the foreshadowing and set up for possible future storylines is well placed.
The one place where I occasionally found myself confused was the magic system. Evanee has amnesia so the laws of magic and the lands are gradually trickled down as we read her perspective, however Aniah is much more familiar with it all. So when you read her perspective there is a bit of an assumption that we the reader are already aware of things as well. It isn’t necessarily an issue, it’s just the occasional moment where I wished for a bit more explanation.
I will say that I am on my knees, hoping beyond hope that Evanee just lights all the men on fire and starts her own kingdom.
full matriarchy
no men allowed
Amazonian laws:
Ran by women
for women
men need not apply
“if a penis shows up on my land it’s getting chopped off”
(except Malachi, Brax/“pup”, and the stable dude - they can live).
At this point, both MMCs have zero redeeming qualities HOWEVER I have chosen to delusionally believe that we have been set up for the possibility of alternate love interests so I’m keeping my fingers crossed that a dragon flies in and gives Evanee the love she desires.
I was so invested in this book, I devoured it in less than a day and I took 10 pages of annotations. This book genuinely had me excited - then frustrated - then heartbroken. And that cliff hanger had me screaming into a pillow, because what do you mean that’s it!!?!?!
I cannot wait for the sequel!
And to the author - if you see this review - I beg of you, on my knees , please consider writing a novella or a complete book for Malachi and Aniah. I still tear up everytime I consider their one moment together. I love them so so much! Their love is THE love story of this book.
EDITING TO ADD: I received this book as an ARC
Long story short:
I have been emotionally compromised and this author is responsible.
Long story long:
Please understand, the front facing story itself is compelling because if I had to work as a tortured house slave with amnesia for three years, then go through the emotional whiplash of being romanced by a coward and the devil (MMCs), I definitely wouldn’t have quite the same will to live as Evanee (FMC).
It genuinely feels like our girl hasn’t been able to catch a break since birth and it has me rooting for her.
But it is the secondary FMC Aniah who has my whole heart!
The regret!
The strength!
The accountability!
The (Literal and figurative) torture!
The brief three minutes of happiness!
Aniah takes it on the chin again and again and again. She never loses focus. She stays loyal. She always keeps the good of the world and the big picture in her mind’s eye, no matter how physically and emotionally painful it is for her. She fights against her “nature” to do what she knows to be right.
I wish I could list everything that makes all six paragraphs of her love story one of my top five romances of all time, but I don’t know if that’s considered bad manners and I’m trying not to spoil the story for anyone.
The author has a great talent for setting the scene.
The character descriptions are vivid - I found myself doodling them as I was reading.
The idea to use gargoyles (Because who didn’t have a crush on Goliath when they were young) was so creative.
I truly love that the author chose to use a creature that doesn’t abide by the typical standards of beauty but still comes off as incredibly attractive.
Also, the foreshadowing and set up for possible future storylines is well placed.
The one place where I occasionally found myself confused was the magic system. Evanee has amnesia so the laws of magic and the lands are gradually trickled down as we read her perspective, however Aniah is much more familiar with it all. So when you read her perspective there is a bit of an assumption that we the reader are already aware of things as well. It isn’t necessarily an issue, it’s just the occasional moment where I wished for a bit more explanation.
I will say that I am on my knees, hoping beyond hope that Evanee just lights all the men on fire and starts her own kingdom.
full matriarchy
no men allowed
Amazonian laws:
Ran by women
for women
men need not apply
“if a penis shows up on my land it’s getting chopped off”
(except Malachi, Brax/“pup”, and the stable dude - they can live).
At this point, both MMCs have zero redeeming qualities HOWEVER I have chosen to delusionally believe that we have been set up for the possibility of alternate love interests so I’m keeping my fingers crossed that a dragon flies in and gives Evanee the love she desires.
I was so invested in this book, I devoured it in less than a day and I took 10 pages of annotations. This book genuinely had me excited - then frustrated - then heartbroken. And that cliff hanger had me screaming into a pillow, because what do you mean that’s it!!?!?!
I cannot wait for the sequel!
And to the author - if you see this review - I beg of you, on my knees , please consider writing a novella or a complete book for Malachi and Aniah. I still tear up everytime I consider their one moment together. I love them so so much! Their love is THE love story of this book.
EDITING TO ADD: I received this book as an ARC
September 8, 2026
This book had me from the first page and just kept getting better and better. Evanee is one of my favorite FMCs. I am now eagerly awaiting the second book (please don't tell me I have to wait a whole year @IlissaBusbee)
August 11, 2026
Thank you so much to the author for the ARC. I had a great time reading this! It took me a bit to get into but I believe that’s my fault cause I’ve been in a book slump so don’t let that deter you!
I loved that this is something new instead of just being Fae/Vampires/Werewolves, we have this new element of Gargoyles and I ate it up!!
I love Evanee who I can tell will become our badass/take no shit FMC in the next book (especially with that ending!!) and Ryker, our broody and yearning MMC (also wth that ending was brutal ma’am now I need to know what happens next!)
What a strong debut novel from this author, i can’t wait to read the rest of this series as it comes out!
I loved that this is something new instead of just being Fae/Vampires/Werewolves, we have this new element of Gargoyles and I ate it up!!
I love Evanee who I can tell will become our badass/take no shit FMC in the next book (especially with that ending!!) and Ryker, our broody and yearning MMC (also wth that ending was brutal ma’am now I need to know what happens next!)
What a strong debut novel from this author, i can’t wait to read the rest of this series as it comes out!
August 13, 2026
This book had me from the very beginning. I had to slow myself down so I didn’t crush it so quickly. It’s boy “meets” girl and then all hell breaks loose! This story has it all: great plot, amazing characters and all the monsters. What’s real and what’s a facade … simply amazing!
Thank you to Ilissa Busbee for having me as an ARC reader! I can’t wait for what’s next!
Thank you to Ilissa Busbee for having me as an ARC reader! I can’t wait for what’s next!
August 8, 2026
Advanced copy provided by author for an honest review.
I’m blown away by this book! this is the novel about gargoyles I didn’t know I needed! I really enjoyed the multi POV that brought the story together without telling it all at once. I loved the feelings it evoked as secrets were revealed and connections were made.
I could easily imagine the world Ilissa created as I was reading. Her writing is descriptive and I could see myself in the story. I loved the world building, pacing, the plot, the characters, I loved the different mythical creatures-some were just downright scary!!
I’m ready for the next books in the trilogy!
I’m blown away by this book! this is the novel about gargoyles I didn’t know I needed! I really enjoyed the multi POV that brought the story together without telling it all at once. I loved the feelings it evoked as secrets were revealed and connections were made.
I could easily imagine the world Ilissa created as I was reading. Her writing is descriptive and I could see myself in the story. I loved the world building, pacing, the plot, the characters, I loved the different mythical creatures-some were just downright scary!!
I’m ready for the next books in the trilogy!
August 7, 2026
OMG wow, just wow! Shoutout to Illissa Busbee for allowing me to ARC read Facade her debut novel! One of the easiest 5 stars I’ve ever given! Five stars 6 stars all the stars!!!!
This book was amazing! I did not want to put it down. It had everything I look for in a story. Amazing characters, plot, action, romance, monsters, etc. It was soooo good. The FMC Evanee is a human slave living in a world where they are different beings. She has no memories prior to the last 3 years. She is treated very harshly but is taken away on a journey to the King. There was so much action. The MMCs are gargoyles and let’s just say I ain’t mad at it ☺️. Loved all the main characters, the villains were amazing and easy to hate. The side characters…amazing! There were so many emotions that went through me during my reading of Facade. I was sad, tense, pissed off, laughing out loud and I enjoyed every minute of it. This book releases on September 3, 2026 and I would advise you to preorder it so you can read it on release day. It was that good!
This book was amazing! I did not want to put it down. It had everything I look for in a story. Amazing characters, plot, action, romance, monsters, etc. It was soooo good. The FMC Evanee is a human slave living in a world where they are different beings. She has no memories prior to the last 3 years. She is treated very harshly but is taken away on a journey to the King. There was so much action. The MMCs are gargoyles and let’s just say I ain’t mad at it ☺️. Loved all the main characters, the villains were amazing and easy to hate. The side characters…amazing! There were so many emotions that went through me during my reading of Facade. I was sad, tense, pissed off, laughing out loud and I enjoyed every minute of it. This book releases on September 3, 2026 and I would advise you to preorder it so you can read it on release day. It was that good!
September 3, 2026
I came upon a post in July about an author I hadn’t been following at the time—I’m so glad I came across her post! Her name is Ilissa Busbee and the post was about her upcoming book Facade. She also loves gargoyles and let me tell you, this story did NOT disappoint!
Lore, some political intrigue, GARGOYLES (does anyone remember the show from the 90-00s? Ya, think that but in her own world!) gargoyles have always been one of my favorite creatures and reading this book made me remember so many good memories from childhood! Parts of it reminded me of From Blood and Ash, particularly the first book and some acotar elements, but I can honestly say, I enjoyed reading this book much more than those two series!
Overall, I did think the hints in the beginning were fairly obvious about a plot twist that came later in the book, but everything else came as a shock! Ilissa did amazing at subtly hinting things in that felt natural, yet always stay at the back of your mind. It made me feel in the scene itself as she described the scenery beautifully! I can’t wait for the next book and feel honored for being an ARC reader.
Oh, did I forget to mention her book comes out? …TODAY?! I’m so glad I had the opportunity to read this! It does have spice, I’d rate intensity as 3.5/5!
Plot: 5/5
Character development: 4/5
Spice: 4.8/5
Lore: 5/5 (maam, I want to know all the answers!🤣
Plot twists: 3.5/5 —without spoilers, the identity of FMC was very predictable. The rest with the MCs was not and I loved being constantly torn on who to trust! I will admit I’ve always been team #Ryker)
Ilissa, you did an amazing job with your story telling! It was very easy to read and I read it in two days! The only reason not in one was because I work and couldn’t but otherwise It was a very close call! If you ever want to geek out about gargoyles, I’m here 🙌🏻 don’t see them enough!
Overall rating: 9.8/10
Ps. I hope you’re already writing the second book🤣💜🙌🏻
Lore, some political intrigue, GARGOYLES (does anyone remember the show from the 90-00s? Ya, think that but in her own world!) gargoyles have always been one of my favorite creatures and reading this book made me remember so many good memories from childhood! Parts of it reminded me of From Blood and Ash, particularly the first book and some acotar elements, but I can honestly say, I enjoyed reading this book much more than those two series!
Overall, I did think the hints in the beginning were fairly obvious about a plot twist that came later in the book, but everything else came as a shock! Ilissa did amazing at subtly hinting things in that felt natural, yet always stay at the back of your mind. It made me feel in the scene itself as she described the scenery beautifully! I can’t wait for the next book and feel honored for being an ARC reader.
Oh, did I forget to mention her book comes out? …TODAY?! I’m so glad I had the opportunity to read this! It does have spice, I’d rate intensity as 3.5/5!
Plot: 5/5
Character development: 4/5
Spice: 4.8/5
Lore: 5/5 (maam, I want to know all the answers!🤣
Plot twists: 3.5/5 —without spoilers, the identity of FMC was very predictable. The rest with the MCs was not and I loved being constantly torn on who to trust! I will admit I’ve always been team #Ryker)
Ilissa, you did an amazing job with your story telling! It was very easy to read and I read it in two days! The only reason not in one was because I work and couldn’t but otherwise It was a very close call! If you ever want to geek out about gargoyles, I’m here 🙌🏻 don’t see them enough!
Overall rating: 9.8/10
Ps. I hope you’re already writing the second book🤣💜🙌🏻
August 9, 2026
One of my favorite things about this book was the multi-POV storytelling. It made the world feel so much richer, and the mystery surrounding Evanee’s past unfolded so naturally that every reveal felt earned. I was constantly piecing everything together right alongside the characters.
Also… I never knew I needed broody, protective gargoyles in my life until now.
The plot twists genuinely caught me off guard, and I loved that this wasn’t just another fae fantasy. Exploring the gargoyle realm, their history, and the unique magic behind them made this world feel incredibly fresh and immersive.
From the pacing and world-building to the unforgettable characters and beautiful writing, every page kept me hooked. I genuinely didn’t want this story to end, and I’m already counting down the days until I can dive into the next book in the series.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Also… I never knew I needed broody, protective gargoyles in my life until now.
The plot twists genuinely caught me off guard, and I loved that this wasn’t just another fae fantasy. Exploring the gargoyle realm, their history, and the unique magic behind them made this world feel incredibly fresh and immersive.
From the pacing and world-building to the unforgettable characters and beautiful writing, every page kept me hooked. I genuinely didn’t want this story to end, and I’m already counting down the days until I can dive into the next book in the series.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2026
This is my ARC review. Thank you to the author for the chance to read the book.
Evanee has no memory before the three years she has been made to serve at the Fae Queen’s castle. She and another servant are then made to take an arduous journey to the castle of the Fae King. Guarded by the captain of the King’s guard and his men, there is little chance of escape.
This is an amazing book and I highly recommend anyone to read it. The lore was fantastically written and you could definitely follow it. Humans, werewolves, witches, monsters, muffins, and gargoyles. You will not want to put this book down.
Evanee has no memory before the three years she has been made to serve at the Fae Queen’s castle. She and another servant are then made to take an arduous journey to the castle of the Fae King. Guarded by the captain of the King’s guard and his men, there is little chance of escape.
This is an amazing book and I highly recommend anyone to read it. The lore was fantastically written and you could definitely follow it. Humans, werewolves, witches, monsters, muffins, and gargoyles. You will not want to put this book down.
September 11, 2026
Having never read a book with Gargoyles but loving all things Romantasy and of course darker themes, I had to read Facade!
And it did not disappoint! I'm going to start by saying I NEED MORE!
The lore and mythical creatures in Facade is really unique, I loved that the tattoos that appeared on the witches skin when creating curses. I was pleasantly surprised by the strength, powers and colours of the Gargoyles and can't wait to learn more as the series goes on.
Ilissa has a talent for leading you down a path, only to shock you with twists you didn't see coming! I was pleasantly surprised and gasped out loud more than once!
Really love Evanee and the changes she undergoes, without spoiling I am excited to see more from her! Once enslaved with her memories stolen, she certainly becomes a force to be reckoned with!
Ryker... God damn, what an MMC! Although, without spoiling, he has some redeeming to do!
Fantastic characters, world building and magical lore! Excited to continue the series!
And it did not disappoint! I'm going to start by saying I NEED MORE!
The lore and mythical creatures in Facade is really unique, I loved that the tattoos that appeared on the witches skin when creating curses. I was pleasantly surprised by the strength, powers and colours of the Gargoyles and can't wait to learn more as the series goes on.
Ilissa has a talent for leading you down a path, only to shock you with twists you didn't see coming! I was pleasantly surprised and gasped out loud more than once!
Really love Evanee and the changes she undergoes, without spoiling I am excited to see more from her! Once enslaved with her memories stolen, she certainly becomes a force to be reckoned with!
Ryker... God damn, what an MMC! Although, without spoiling, he has some redeeming to do!
Fantastic characters, world building and magical lore! Excited to continue the series!
August 28, 2026
I received an arc copy of this book from the author. This is her debut novel and I think she did really well. There were far, humans, werewolves, gargoyles! I enjoyed the amnesia story line and all the action that was in the book. There were a few spicy bits that of course I enjoyed. I’m very interested to see where the characters go in book 2! I was left on a cliffhanger with questions. Overall, a very nicely written fantasy book that stands out from others.
August 25, 2026
Facade — Binge-Worthy! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This one was HARD to put down! Such a fun fantasy adventure packed with Fae, Elementals, Witches, Gargoyles, and Werewolves. 🧚♀️🔥🧙♀️🗿🐺
The perfect mix of magic, adventure, and supernatural creatures that kept me turning the pages. If you love a fast-paced fantasy with plenty going on, definitely add Facade to your TBR! ⭐️
This one was HARD to put down! Such a fun fantasy adventure packed with Fae, Elementals, Witches, Gargoyles, and Werewolves. 🧚♀️🔥🧙♀️🗿🐺
The perfect mix of magic, adventure, and supernatural creatures that kept me turning the pages. If you love a fast-paced fantasy with plenty going on, definitely add Facade to your TBR! ⭐️
September 4, 2026
Lost memories? Check. Slow burn? Check. Found family? Check. Forced proximity? Check.
The little hints and bits of information we get as the story goes on kept me completely invested in unraveling Evanee’s past and how Aniah ended up the way she is. Definitely had a favorite (iykyk), but that made me even more anxious for Evanee to make good choices. Cannot wait for book two!
The little hints and bits of information we get as the story goes on kept me completely invested in unraveling Evanee’s past and how Aniah ended up the way she is. Definitely had a favorite (iykyk), but that made me even more anxious for Evanee to make good choices. Cannot wait for book two!
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August 26, 2026The pace was perfect! I dont think I have ever read a book where the pace was peak. It was goldilocks perfection.
Loved the book. It was so good. Loved having a truly strong MFC. I am so excited for book 2!
Loved the book. It was so good. Loved having a truly strong MFC. I am so excited for book 2!
September 4, 2026
I am giving Facade 4.5⭐️ this book was engaging, witty and an overall great read.
I love the multiple POVs the fierce FMC and a true slow burn. Not to mention the MMC is a gargoyle!! Yes please.
I love the multiple POVs the fierce FMC and a true slow burn. Not to mention the MMC is a gargoyle!! Yes please.
September 12, 2026
Wow wow wow wow I loved this book.
This novel has fae, werewolves, gargoyles, witches, monsters, magic and more. The story follows a girl who has lost her memory but is serving in a fae castle. She ends up on an unexpected adventure all while being held by a proximity spell that forces her to be near a sexy man (or…whatever he is). Can she trust him?
The story was gripping and well written - I can’t wait to see what happens next - it leaves you on a complete cliffhanger 😅
This novel has fae, werewolves, gargoyles, witches, monsters, magic and more. The story follows a girl who has lost her memory but is serving in a fae castle. She ends up on an unexpected adventure all while being held by a proximity spell that forces her to be near a sexy man (or…whatever he is). Can she trust him?
The story was gripping and well written - I can’t wait to see what happens next - it leaves you on a complete cliffhanger 😅
September 6, 2026
You had me at Gargoyles!! Great world building and characters. The FMC has amnesia but has the strength and courage to keep going even though she don't know who she can or can not trust. Slow burn!! Cannot wait for book 2. So good.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A big shout out of author Illissa Busbee for choosing me for her ARC team with limited spots. This was an exciting romp through a world with more hidden secrets than an onion has rings, every character seems to be concealing truths behind a bland facade. But when you are Evanee, a human slave and drudge in the Fae queen's castle with no memories before three years ago everything is a mystery. You can feel her pain and frustration to remember even a scrap of her past, who is her family, how did she come here, has she ever been in love, kissed a boy? Everything is trapped behind the magical tattoos controlled by the queen's witch Cressida, and her situation just gets worse when she is summoned to the cruel Fae King's court. During a troubled journey Evanee feels drawn to her handsome guard Aiden, but not as much as she is drawn to dreams of the Western lands where the moonflowers bloomed and the now destroyed Gargoyle empire once was. Does this have anything to do with the endless itching in her back, or the brief spark of recognition of silver eyes on a secretive warrior? Who is the witch searching across the lands for her missing friend? Why does a king so desperately want a human slave girl? Why does Aiden feel so familiar and attractive and yet not at the same time? Why couldn't I stop snorting with laughter while reading about what happens when you unsuspectingly eat Lyra's muffins🤭? When the truth slowly unfolds it will place Evanee squarely in the middle of a massive quest for power and leave the dear readers clinging to an unseen cliffhanger, as the author leaves us hopefully waiting for more. An excellent start to a fresh new world with much potential for more to come.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Facade is the kind of romantasy that pulls you in with mystery, tension, and the feeling that there’s always more happening beneath the surface.
I really enjoyed the dark and intriguing atmosphere, especially the combination of Fae, witches, monsters, werewolves, gargoyles, curses, and romance. The world feels dangerous and unpredictable, which made every chapter feel like there was another secret waiting to be uncovered.
One thing I particularly loved was the cast of characters, the good and the bad characters, and even when I wasn't supposed to like someone, I found myself intrigued by them. There are also some new and unusual species that I don't often see in other books—or at least not ones I've come across before—which made the world feel even more original and exciting.
The main character’s journey was one of my favourite parts. With missing memories and so many unanswered questions surrounding her past, I loved discovering the world alongside her and trying to figure out who could actually be trusted.
There’s mystery, danger, secrets, attraction, and plenty of questions that kept me turning the pages. I especially loved that Facade doesn’t give you all the answers at once—it makes you want to keep digging deeper into this world.
Betty (The Ink Addicts Reads - Instagram & Youtube)
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Facade is the kind of romantasy that pulls you in with mystery, tension, and the feeling that there’s always more happening beneath the surface.
I really enjoyed the dark and intriguing atmosphere, especially the combination of Fae, witches, monsters, werewolves, gargoyles, curses, and romance. The world feels dangerous and unpredictable, which made every chapter feel like there was another secret waiting to be uncovered.
One thing I particularly loved was the cast of characters, the good and the bad characters, and even when I wasn't supposed to like someone, I found myself intrigued by them. There are also some new and unusual species that I don't often see in other books—or at least not ones I've come across before—which made the world feel even more original and exciting.
The main character’s journey was one of my favourite parts. With missing memories and so many unanswered questions surrounding her past, I loved discovering the world alongside her and trying to figure out who could actually be trusted.
There’s mystery, danger, secrets, attraction, and plenty of questions that kept me turning the pages. I especially loved that Facade doesn’t give you all the answers at once—it makes you want to keep digging deeper into this world.
Betty (The Ink Addicts Reads - Instagram & Youtube)
Review of advance copy received from Author
A gargoyle romance? Who knew I’d be so invested. 👀 This is a spoiler free ARC review.
I was thrilled to receive a physical advanced copy of the book from the author in a PR box with lots of other goodies like fan art bookmarks and a surprise envelope that I had to wait to open until I finished.
This romantasy adventure brings something new with gargoyles but also includes other familiar creatures such as witches, werewolves, and fae. My favorite tropes that kept the story going for me were secret identity, found family, political intrigue, second chance, and a blonde MMC that we actually like. 😏
Will I be continuing this series? Yes, the ending did leave us on a little bit of a cliffhanger, but also with enough questions that I’m curious enough to want to keep going.
Will I read other books by this author? Absolutely. I’ve had the distinct joy of getting to chat with her, and just from the creativity of this new concept with gargoyles, I think anything else that she writes will be equally as creative.
Who is this book for? If you’re into monster romances or shifter romance, then I think gargoyle romance will be for you as well. A lot of the dynamics are the same in terms of shifting from human to creature, as well as some of the feral tendencies, so this story should feel very familiar to those who are into werewolves.
All in all, for a debut inside author, I would say Ilissa Busbee has a winner on her hands!
I was thrilled to receive a physical advanced copy of the book from the author in a PR box with lots of other goodies like fan art bookmarks and a surprise envelope that I had to wait to open until I finished.
This romantasy adventure brings something new with gargoyles but also includes other familiar creatures such as witches, werewolves, and fae. My favorite tropes that kept the story going for me were secret identity, found family, political intrigue, second chance, and a blonde MMC that we actually like. 😏
Will I be continuing this series? Yes, the ending did leave us on a little bit of a cliffhanger, but also with enough questions that I’m curious enough to want to keep going.
Will I read other books by this author? Absolutely. I’ve had the distinct joy of getting to chat with her, and just from the creativity of this new concept with gargoyles, I think anything else that she writes will be equally as creative.
Who is this book for? If you’re into monster romances or shifter romance, then I think gargoyle romance will be for you as well. A lot of the dynamics are the same in terms of shifting from human to creature, as well as some of the feral tendencies, so this story should feel very familiar to those who are into werewolves.
All in all, for a debut inside author, I would say Ilissa Busbee has a winner on her hands!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Ilissa Busbee for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️ rounded up to 5 on Goodreads!
Yes, yes, yes. Gargoyles!? Uh, YES! I was enthralled with this book and completely devoured it. I was thrown back in time to the days when I would stay up way past my bedtime, cuddled up in bed with my giant pink fuzzy comforter, and watch gargoyles on the late night Disney Channel. This book scratched the itch I didn’t even know I had.
I really enjoyed the author’s writing style. The lore was loring. The story did not feel rushed; there was intricate world building spread throughout the book and detailed descriptions which made it easy for me to picture the scenes playing out. I don’t want to give too much away, so I won’t go in-depth but… all you need to know is…. Gargoyles. Big, muscular, possessive, protective, mysterious, hulking gargoyles… with secrets. What more could you need!?!
I’m so impatient and can’t wait to read the next book to continue the story immediately. My mind is reeling with the possibilities of what happens next. Ilissa, I need answers, please!!
P.S. There were also a few times I actually LOL’d. Favorite quote: “I have more muffins.” I ugly cackled at that one. What do muffins have to do with gargoyles you ask?! You’ll have to read Facade to solve that mystery! 🧁🤪
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️ rounded up to 5 on Goodreads!
Yes, yes, yes. Gargoyles!? Uh, YES! I was enthralled with this book and completely devoured it. I was thrown back in time to the days when I would stay up way past my bedtime, cuddled up in bed with my giant pink fuzzy comforter, and watch gargoyles on the late night Disney Channel. This book scratched the itch I didn’t even know I had.
I really enjoyed the author’s writing style. The lore was loring. The story did not feel rushed; there was intricate world building spread throughout the book and detailed descriptions which made it easy for me to picture the scenes playing out. I don’t want to give too much away, so I won’t go in-depth but… all you need to know is…. Gargoyles. Big, muscular, possessive, protective, mysterious, hulking gargoyles… with secrets. What more could you need!?!
I’m so impatient and can’t wait to read the next book to continue the story immediately. My mind is reeling with the possibilities of what happens next. Ilissa, I need answers, please!!
P.S. There were also a few times I actually LOL’d. Favorite quote: “I have more muffins.” I ugly cackled at that one. What do muffins have to do with gargoyles you ask?! You’ll have to read Facade to solve that mystery! 🧁🤪
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
5⭐️1🌶
Wow! This was different in a very good way. It's atmospheric and mysterious. Evanee has spent the last three years of her life in servitude to the fae with no recollection of her past beyond the last three years. Who and what she really is, is so much more. One day the Captain of the king's fae guard comes to take her away. She is bound to him so she can't escape on the journey. Evanee is smart and has reservations about who she's traveling with. We as readers very slowly recover her memories with her. It becomes very complicated very quickly. I loved that we had POVs from other characters and that we still only received snippets of information as the story progressed. This got really intense once all the players revealed themselves and this ends, not just on a cliffhanger, it just stops mid action so be prepared. The writing and world building in this is exceptional, I absolutely loved this. The author did a great job characterizing everyone. There was an undertone of who was trustworthy and who wasn't. I love how this book played out and I'm chomping at the bit for the next one. I need to know what happens to everyone! It was an honor to read an advanced copy of this book. Thank you to the author for the opportunity.
Wow! This was different in a very good way. It's atmospheric and mysterious. Evanee has spent the last three years of her life in servitude to the fae with no recollection of her past beyond the last three years. Who and what she really is, is so much more. One day the Captain of the king's fae guard comes to take her away. She is bound to him so she can't escape on the journey. Evanee is smart and has reservations about who she's traveling with. We as readers very slowly recover her memories with her. It becomes very complicated very quickly. I loved that we had POVs from other characters and that we still only received snippets of information as the story progressed. This got really intense once all the players revealed themselves and this ends, not just on a cliffhanger, it just stops mid action so be prepared. The writing and world building in this is exceptional, I absolutely loved this. The author did a great job characterizing everyone. There was an undertone of who was trustworthy and who wasn't. I love how this book played out and I'm chomping at the bit for the next one. I need to know what happens to everyone! It was an honor to read an advanced copy of this book. Thank you to the author for the opportunity.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you so much to the author for providing me with the eARC of this book!
Move over vampires and werewolves ( and other mystical creatures) - GARGOYLES have entered the chat. But not just any gargoyles, hot, muscular, broody, protective, and did I mention HOT gargoyles. The only problem- you won’t even know who the Gargoyles are right away, but that’s part of the fun of this book!
I was sucked in and invested from page 1. There is so much unknown in this world! Every chapter gave a little nugget of information that I had to save to try to figure out what was going on.
There is a diverse cast of characters in this book and I love that Ilissa gives us some of tbeir point of views as well. They give off dysfunctional found family vibes. Lyra has got to a favorite side character and she brought some much needed humor when things get intense!
There is romance and spice and banter and tension, but you won’t know between who until you read!
I don’t know what’s worse Evanee not remembering anything or her getting bits and pieces back but not making sense of it all, or her rembering EVERYTHING and things still not working out the way she thought!
I will be impatieny waiting for book 2!
Move over vampires and werewolves ( and other mystical creatures) - GARGOYLES have entered the chat. But not just any gargoyles, hot, muscular, broody, protective, and did I mention HOT gargoyles. The only problem- you won’t even know who the Gargoyles are right away, but that’s part of the fun of this book!
I was sucked in and invested from page 1. There is so much unknown in this world! Every chapter gave a little nugget of information that I had to save to try to figure out what was going on.
There is a diverse cast of characters in this book and I love that Ilissa gives us some of tbeir point of views as well. They give off dysfunctional found family vibes. Lyra has got to a favorite side character and she brought some much needed humor when things get intense!
There is romance and spice and banter and tension, but you won’t know between who until you read!
I don’t know what’s worse Evanee not remembering anything or her getting bits and pieces back but not making sense of it all, or her rembering EVERYTHING and things still not working out the way she thought!
I will be impatieny waiting for book 2!
September 15, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🖤 Facade by Ilissa Busbee 🖤
Cursed heroine with stolen memories? ✔️
Dangerous Fae? ✔️
Witches, werewolves, monsters & GARGOYLES?! ✔️✔️✔️
A sinfully alluring captain who may or may not be trustworthy? 👀🔥
Yeah… I was IN.
And can we talk about the gargoyles for a second?! I LOVE gargoyles. I grew up obsessed with the show Gargoyles (and yes, I realize I’m completely dating myself here 😂👵🏻), so the second gargoyles showed up in this world, my inner ’90s kid was VERY happy. 🖤
Evanee has no idea who she really is, and honestly, neither did I half the time 😂 Every time I thought I was starting to piece things together, another secret, twist, or suspicious character had me questioning EVERYTHING.
I loved the dark, mysterious atmosphere and slowly uncovering this world right alongside Evanee. There’s magic, danger, secrets, betrayal, and that delicious tension of “I know I probably shouldn’t trust you…but unfortunately you’re hot.” 😏🔥
And the deeper we got into Evanee’s missing memories, the more I needed to know what the hell actually happened to her. 👀
Dark, twisty, magical, and full of characters I absolutely did NOT know whether to trust — exactly my kind of fantasy romance. 🖤✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trust no one. Especially the hot ones. 😏🔥
🖤 Facade by Ilissa Busbee 🖤
Cursed heroine with stolen memories? ✔️
Dangerous Fae? ✔️
Witches, werewolves, monsters & GARGOYLES?! ✔️✔️✔️
A sinfully alluring captain who may or may not be trustworthy? 👀🔥
Yeah… I was IN.
And can we talk about the gargoyles for a second?! I LOVE gargoyles. I grew up obsessed with the show Gargoyles (and yes, I realize I’m completely dating myself here 😂👵🏻), so the second gargoyles showed up in this world, my inner ’90s kid was VERY happy. 🖤
Evanee has no idea who she really is, and honestly, neither did I half the time 😂 Every time I thought I was starting to piece things together, another secret, twist, or suspicious character had me questioning EVERYTHING.
I loved the dark, mysterious atmosphere and slowly uncovering this world right alongside Evanee. There’s magic, danger, secrets, betrayal, and that delicious tension of “I know I probably shouldn’t trust you…but unfortunately you’re hot.” 😏🔥
And the deeper we got into Evanee’s missing memories, the more I needed to know what the hell actually happened to her. 👀
Dark, twisty, magical, and full of characters I absolutely did NOT know whether to trust — exactly my kind of fantasy romance. 🖤✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trust no one. Especially the hot ones. 😏🔥
Review of advance copy received from Author
WAIT…. What did I just read?! I am still processing all the things, wow what a debut novel Ilissa Busbee. I loved it. First, thank you for the e-arc of this book. I am so grateful you allowed me to read this book and offer my thoughts. The release day just sprung up on me and I was worried I wouldn’t be able to finish this book before release day and I really wanted to be able to share my reader experience before then. Ummmm, that was not a problem….. I read this so fast. I. Could. Not. Put. It. Down.
I had to know what was happening. The way Ilissa wrote this story was so fun to read because she would reveal parts of the story and then had us wondering and asking more questions in the same breath. This is my first book with Gargoyles too and it was a fun new fictional character to imagine. I really can’t wait to pick up this story again in the next few books.
This book has:
Multiple POV
Gargoyles, witches, werewolves, humans, fae, and several other creatures/fantasy beings
FMC with no memories
2 morally grey MMC’s
Slow burn
Magic
Spicy 🌶️
Secrets
Betrayal
I very much recommend this book to lovers of fantasy, romance, gothic vibe readers!
I had to know what was happening. The way Ilissa wrote this story was so fun to read because she would reveal parts of the story and then had us wondering and asking more questions in the same breath. This is my first book with Gargoyles too and it was a fun new fictional character to imagine. I really can’t wait to pick up this story again in the next few books.
This book has:
Multiple POV
Gargoyles, witches, werewolves, humans, fae, and several other creatures/fantasy beings
FMC with no memories
2 morally grey MMC’s
Slow burn
Magic
Spicy 🌶️
Secrets
Betrayal
I very much recommend this book to lovers of fantasy, romance, gothic vibe readers!
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