LoveReading Says
A captivating and fascinating novel, author Liz Hyder excels in constructing a number of provocative strands, emphasising each, while bringing them together to create a vibrant whole. Set in Bristol in 1896, a set of illusionists and early film pioneers combine to form a grand spectacle in celebration of a master of illusion. It is obvious that extensive research has taken place to make this novel feel so convincing, it allows you to fall into and soak up the rich dark undertone that flows through the pages. It is fascinating to read the historical note at the end, while very much a work of fiction, real-life magicians and moving picture trailblazers have been used as inspiration. The focus hovers over four people, each so very different yet with a united love for their art, though the two women really do sit centre stage due to their inclusion in a male-dominated world. I enjoyed the difference in ages of the characters, it lends a feeling of inclusivity. The villain of the piece is wonderfully sinister, you may well find a boo and hiss escaping as you read. This is a fabulous second novel (for adults), firmly cementing Liz Hyder as an author to watch, and we have included it as a LoveReading Star Book. Beautifully crafted, The Illusions steps into a world of trickery and deception, while shining a light on the importance of friendship and love.
Liz Robinson
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The Illusions Synopsis
At a time of extraordinary change, two women must harness their talents to take control of their own destiny . . .
Bristol, 1896. Used to scraping a living as the young assistant to an ageing con artist, Cecily Marsden's life is turned upside down when her master suddenly dies. Believing herself to blame, could young Cec somehow have powers she little understands?
Meanwhile Eadie Carleton, a pioneering early film-maker, struggles for her talent to be taken seriously in a male-dominated world, and a brilliant young magician, George Perris, begins to see the potential in moving pictures. George believes that if he can harness this new technology, it will revolutionise the world of magic forever - but in order to achieve his dreams, he must first win over Miss Carleton . . .
As a group of illusionists prepare for a grand spectacle - to mark both the retirement of legendary master The Professor and the announcement of his successor - Cec, Eadie and George's worlds collide. But as Cec falls in love with the bustling realm of theatre and magic, she faces the fight of her life to save the performance from sabotage and harness the element of real magic held deep within her.
THE ILLUSIONS is the captivating new novel from the much-lauded author of THE GIFTS. Inspired by real-life illusionists and early film pioneers, this astonishing story of women and talent, magic and power, sweeps you into a world where anything is possible and nothing is quite as it seems . . .
About This Edition
| ISBN: |
9781786581891 |
| Publication date: |
4th January 2024 |
| Author: |
Liz Hyder |
| Publisher: |
Manilla Press an imprint of Bonnier Books Ltd |
| Format: |
Paperback |
| Pagination: |
501 pages |
| Primary Genre |
Historical Fiction
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| Other Genres: |
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| Recommendations: |
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About Liz Hyder
Liz Hyder is a writer, experienced workshop leader and award-winning arts PR consultant. She has a BA in drama from the University of Bristol and, in early 2018, won the Bridge Award/Moniack Mhor's Emerging Writer Award. She is currently working on her second book and a range of other creative projects. Bearmouth is her debut novel.
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