First Ink acquires duology from originally self-published Sarah Marie Page
First Ink has acquired a romantasy duology from originally self-published author Sarah Marie Page. Kesia Lupo, commissioning editor at First Ink, acquired world English rights to the Enmity of Hearts duology from Mara Hollander at Azantian Literary Agency.
The first book, Illusion of Stars, will be published in hardback for the first time in February 2027, with Anchor of Light following in May 2027. Illusion of Stars was originally published in 2024 and “blends of cosy atmosphere and high-stakes tension”.
The synopsis reads: “All Isabel wants is to be the next royal physician of her windswept island. But when soldiers arrive from the country of Volgaard, and her best friend is murdered, she’ll do whatever it takes to bring them to their knees – even woo the general’s terrifying, illusion-magic wielding son Erik Lothgarson. Soon, she must decide which is more powerful: her mission, or her undeniable attraction to the enemy.”
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Lupo said: “Sarah Marie Page’s blend of cosy yet pulse-racing romance and high-stakes adventure is completely irresistible. We’ve watched this series capture hearts independently, and it’s a perfect fit for our romantasy list.”
Page said: “I’ve been floored with the reception to this series – both the reader enthusiasm and the warmth and excitement of the First Ink publishing team. At its heart, Illusion of Stars is a book about finding the people who see all of you – the awkward parts, the weird parts, the deep, dark, messed-up parts – and instead of pushing you away, they grab your hand and pull you in.
“With its emphasis on propulsive stories for YA readers, First Ink feels like exactly the right home for Isabel and Erik, and I can’t wait to introduce them to a whole new audience.”
