ARC Review: Elusion by Claudia Gabel & Cheryl Klam

 

Elusion®

Authors: Claudia Gabel & Cheryl Klam

Pages: 400

Source: eARC provided for review

Buying links: Amazon/ B&N/ TBD

My rating: 3.5 stars

Summary:

Soon, Elusion® will change the world and life as we know it. 

A new technology called Elusion is sweeping the country. An app, visor and wristband will virtually transport you to an exotic destination where adventure can be pursued without the complications—or consequences—of real life. Regan is an Elusion insider. Or at least she used to be. Her father invented the program, and her best friend, Patrick, heir to the tech giant Orexis, is about to release it nationwide. But ever since her father’s unexpected death, Regan can’t bear to Escape, especially since waking up from the dream means crashing back to her grim reality. Still, when there are rumors of trouble in Elusion—accusations that it’s addictive and dangerous— Regan is determined to defend it. But the critics of Elusion come from surprising sources, including Josh, the handsome skeptic with his own personal stakes. As Regan investigates the claims, she discovers a disturbing web of secrets. She will soon have to choose between love and loyalty…a decision that will affect the lives of millions. Suspense, thrills, and romance fuel this near-future story about the seductive nature of a perfect virtual world, and how far one girl will go to uncover the truth behind the illusions.

 

 

Have you ever read a book that is really amazing, that has everything to be perfect but you simply cannot connect with the characters?
Well, that’s what happened with Elusion®.

What I liked:
The authors created a wonderful world. The technology and the Escapes were breathtaking, which, by the way, reminds me a little of the “Smarteye” in Under the never sky.
Elusion® is an action packed roller coaster, with twists and turns I didn't expect.
It has mystery, it has a great plot, it was beautifully described and it was a fast passed read.
See? It sounds really, really wonderful!
The first half is a little slow, but then, the second part of the book is an adrenaline rush. It was almost impossible to put down.
I found it original and enterteining

What I didn't like:
First off, the romance felt like insta-love. I actually liked the best friend better, which leads me to the love triangle part. Yes, there’s some kind of love triangle, and I really didn’t feel anything with any of the two boys, even though I liked one better than the other.
And then, I think there’s a major problem with the world building. The plot was too focused in the mystery of Elusion® that authors didn’t explain much about the world outside the App. I was left with too many questions and almost zero answers.
And like I said before, I couldn’t connect with any character. They all were… meh. I liked that Regan was strong, and brave but I can’t even say that she was loyal, because she didn’t even know which side she’s on. And loyalty is the thing I expect the most in the main characters.
Josh and Patrick were okay. Just like that.

Overall, Elusion® is a great story for fans of science fiction. Mystery, unexpected turns and an enjoyable plot. I’m sure you’ll enjoy Elusion®. Is not the most memorable book but it is good.