Fantastic Fairytales - Illusions by Aprilynne Pike

Published: May 2011

Publisher: Harper Collins

Pages: 375

Copy Provided by: Borrowed 

Summary: Goodreads

Summary:

Laurel hasn't seen Tamani since she begged him to let her go last year. Though her heart still aches, Laurel is confident that David was the right choice. 

But just as life is returning to normal, Laurel discovers that a hidden enemy lies in wait. Once again, Laurel must turn to Tamani to protect and guide her, for the danger that now threatens Avalon is one that no faerie thought would ever be possible. And for the first time, Laurel cannot be sure that her side will prevail.

Review:

I really enjoy this series and I'm not sure what it is.  I find that so many titles these days (like movies) place more emphasis on sex, violence and language.  Sometimes these aspects of books and film overshadow the real plotline.  Aprilynne Pike does a great job of creating a fairly clean teen read.  There is no language and overall the story is interesting and perfect for a younger teen audience, especially those who are just starting to notice the opposite sex.

For those of you who have not already read Book 1 and 2, we are back to the complicated love triangle.  However, to throw a bit more interest into the mix, Ms. Pike has added another player.  Yuki is a foreign exchange student but there is something odd about her and Laurel and her friends must try to figure out what it is.  Is she really as innocent as she seems to be or is it all an illusion?  

Illusions was an enjoyable read and it picked up quickly at the end of the book.  I would have liked more background information about the different abilities of each seasonal fairy as I could not remember the details from past titles.  Tamani totally took centre stage for me this time around.  Previously, I had been partial to David as being a good choice for Laurel but who could resist the confidence of a guy who says things like this - 

Pg 51
"I just don't want to cozy up to the guy whose girl  have every intention of stealing..."
- Tamani

Cocky, yes.  Also ballsy but not quite jerk-like.  At least he's honest...

I had originally thought this would be a trilogy but I'm so glad it wasn't.  Looking forward to book 4, Ms. Pike!

Curlypow here - I know this isn't exactly a fairy tale, but it is partially about faerie, so I figured that would count for this  month.  Hope you don't mind.

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