An Illusion of Thieves
Ratings14
Average rating4.1
An Illusion of Thieves struggles in the first few chapters with an inordinate amount of info dumping that really, really isn't necessary. There's a lot of unfamiliar place names, and explanations of history that honestly, really aren't necessary to the novel as a whole. If you took out the huge info dumps at the beginning of this book, it would flow so so much better. BUT DESPITE THAT, An Illusion of Thieves was an enjoyable fantasy novel with a heist twist into it.
Romy is a delightful main character, with a very unique magic power. She's got some sass to her that I really like. Her brother, Neri, on the other hand, I wanted to slap silly. He is the reason behind basically everything that happens in this book and he doesn't ever appear to be apologetic over it.
Readers of the Locke Lamora series should enjoy this one – same Italian-esque setting with thievery and wit involved.
If you're having a hard time settling into the book, force yourself to get at least 10% of the way in, and then it should get a little better for you.
Romy is a courtesan in a land where magic is forbidden and its use will get you killed. She isn't just any courtesan, she belongs to the Shadow Lord, a man trying to bring the comforts of life to the poor as well as the rich. Romy truly believes he can make the world a better place.
Until her brother uses magic to steal. Her relationship with the Shadow Lord is the only thing that can save him. But it will cost her everything.
I loved this! Forbidden magic is a trope I am always ready for. The characters are great and I'm excited for the next one.
I received a free copy of this book through Net Galley.
I liked it more than I thought I would. This book collects the first 6 issues, and the first issue was interesting but nothing too amazing. As this volume continued and started to get deeper into the plot, I found that I genuinely wanted to know where things would go. I like the art, the characters seem like they could be interesting (even if only a few of them grabbed me in this volume), and overall I think this is a solid start to a series.