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Illusive: A Steamy Contemporary Women's Fiction Novel (A Her Multiverse Book)
After four years of hell, Katie Wu is finally safe. Too bad her heart hasn’t gotten the memo.
When pop singer Katie Wu returns to Seoul after escaping an abusive relationship, her longtime friends, rapper Jung Do-won and singer Kitahara Akihiro, are stunned by just how much she’s changed.
Her scars run deep, but even Katie is surprised by how often her trauma resurfaces, threatening her attempts to make music and find love again. At least this time, she isn’t suffering alone in secret. Akihiro's determined to prove to Katie that he's nothing like her ex while his bandmate Do-won buries his emotions, focusing on his music instead.
How will Katie overcome her dark memories and create a brighter future?
Take a peek behind the glamor of the K-pop industry, and join Katie as she fights to rebuild her life in the witty and steamy contemporary novel Illusive, part of the Her Multiverse series written by Asian American author Virginia Duan.
When pop singer Katie Wu returns to Seoul after escaping an abusive relationship, her longtime friends, rapper Jung Do-won and singer Kitahara Akihiro, are stunned by just how much she’s changed.
Her scars run deep, but even Katie is surprised by how often her trauma resurfaces, threatening her attempts to make music and find love again. At least this time, she isn’t suffering alone in secret. Akihiro's determined to prove to Katie that he's nothing like her ex while his bandmate Do-won buries his emotions, focusing on his music instead.
How will Katie overcome her dark memories and create a brighter future?
Take a peek behind the glamor of the K-pop industry, and join Katie as she fights to rebuild her life in the witty and steamy contemporary novel Illusive, part of the Her Multiverse series written by Asian American author Virginia Duan.
- GenresRomance
363 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 23, 2024
15 people are currently reading
91 people want to read
About the author
Virginia Duan
4 books40 followersVirginia Duan is an Asian American author who writes K-pop inspired women's fiction books full of rage and grief with biting humor and glimpses of grace. Her new cozy fantasy novella series, The Witches’ Council, follows several small love stories in a world where magic is real, marriage is a job, consummation rituals are mandatory, and love is with whom they least expect: their spouse!
She is also the creator of the ongoing Her Multiverse series, where the novels explore how Asian American singer Katie Wu’s choices in love, friends, and family impact her journey of self-discovery, healing from trauma, and choosing the life she wants for herself. Peek behind the glamour of the K-pop industry and discover how Katie learns to love herself and a different band member of global K-pop sensation DOYEN in every timeline.
Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, Virginia lives with her husband and five children. (Yes, five.) She spends most of her days plotting her next book or article, shuttling her children about, participating in more group chats than humanly possible, and daydreaming about BTS a totally normal amount.
Join Virginia's mailing list to receive sneak peeks, bonuses, and updates on her latest stories at https://virginiaduan.com.
She is also the creator of the ongoing Her Multiverse series, where the novels explore how Asian American singer Katie Wu’s choices in love, friends, and family impact her journey of self-discovery, healing from trauma, and choosing the life she wants for herself. Peek behind the glamour of the K-pop industry and discover how Katie learns to love herself and a different band member of global K-pop sensation DOYEN in every timeline.
Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, Virginia lives with her husband and five children. (Yes, five.) She spends most of her days plotting her next book or article, shuttling her children about, participating in more group chats than humanly possible, and daydreaming about BTS a totally normal amount.
Join Virginia's mailing list to receive sneak peeks, bonuses, and updates on her latest stories at https://virginiaduan.com.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
May 9, 2024
This book had me feeling all of the emotions, so much so that I had to put my kindle down and do a lap a time or two just to let them all sink in. Perhaps I had to have a little scream, and then send the author a message about how lovely their writing is. Either way, I have no regrets! The way I'd go from giggling at the witty and light dialogue one minute, to furiously wiping away tears the next just goes to show how well written and fleshed out this story is.
For fellow fans of k-pop, the creative use of full album drops (including track names and lengths!), lyrics, interviews, and reviews throughout the narrative will keep you fully locked in, while still making it easy to follow and understand for those who may not be as familiar with the world. The main character goes through SO MUCH but in all her different phases is still relatable, raw, and human. Katie Wu feels like someone you know, which makes it easier to root for her.
AND THE STEAM!!!! had me sweating at the end, like okay!!! GIRRLLLLLLLL WHEW
Cannot wait for more of this series!!
For fellow fans of k-pop, the creative use of full album drops (including track names and lengths!), lyrics, interviews, and reviews throughout the narrative will keep you fully locked in, while still making it easy to follow and understand for those who may not be as familiar with the world. The main character goes through SO MUCH but in all her different phases is still relatable, raw, and human. Katie Wu feels like someone you know, which makes it easier to root for her.
AND THE STEAM!!!! had me sweating at the end, like okay!!! GIRRLLLLLLLL WHEW
Cannot wait for more of this series!!
May 9, 2024
Illusive is a monster that pulls you in and wraps you in a hug before chewing you up and spitting you out, wondering if you'll ever be happy again. It then picks you up and cuddles you again, clearly having gone to therapy.
That metaphor got away from me. But the message stands, and the journey mirrors that of Katie Wu so closely that it can be a difficult read at times. Illusive is a dark novel that pulls no punches, and yet still the reader is left with a sense of hope that in fact, things can get better. Maybe not quickly and certainly not easily, but they can. It's a truly important message for all of us - even those of us who aren't K-pop stars. What happens to us is not who we are, and at any time we feel ready we can take the reins and start the journey to regain control, with the support of our loved ones behind us.
One warning to readers: please do mind the content of the book. It contains realistic depictions of mental illness, domestic abuse in all forms, abortion, and unhealthy relationship dynamics. Please keep yourselves safe while reading this. Though it does end positively, the content throughout the book can be very troubling.
That metaphor got away from me. But the message stands, and the journey mirrors that of Katie Wu so closely that it can be a difficult read at times. Illusive is a dark novel that pulls no punches, and yet still the reader is left with a sense of hope that in fact, things can get better. Maybe not quickly and certainly not easily, but they can. It's a truly important message for all of us - even those of us who aren't K-pop stars. What happens to us is not who we are, and at any time we feel ready we can take the reins and start the journey to regain control, with the support of our loved ones behind us.
One warning to readers: please do mind the content of the book. It contains realistic depictions of mental illness, domestic abuse in all forms, abortion, and unhealthy relationship dynamics. Please keep yourselves safe while reading this. Though it does end positively, the content throughout the book can be very troubling.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 7, 2024
What a beautiful and heartbreaking and real journey this book took me on. Katie's world is so fleshed out and so easy to be drawn into. As an avid kpop stan I really enjoyed an honest and real perspective on the industry and the culture surrounding it. I fell in love with the characters and especially appreciated how they felt like real people. Their emotions, connections, and interactions all had a layer of genuineness to them and it just sucked me into the world even more. Also the attention to detail with the inclusion of albums and tracklists and lyrics was one of my favorite things about this book. I wish Katie Wu's discography was real because I am dying to listen to and experience it after reading this. This was such an interesting and important story and it made me feel everything on the emotional spectrum. The experience and journey it took me on as a reader was so so special and it's the kind of book that will stay with me long after I've read it.
April 28, 2024
This is my book, so of course I love it.
You’ll love “Illusive” if you love angst, complex characters, and stories that pull no punches at how hard and messy healing from trauma is. Check out my spicy, non-linear K-pop love story about breaking free from shame, found families, and sexy K-pop idols that will give you glimpses into the artistic process and have you hopping on the next plane to Seoul.
You’ll love “Illusive” if you love angst, complex characters, and stories that pull no punches at how hard and messy healing from trauma is. Check out my spicy, non-linear K-pop love story about breaking free from shame, found families, and sexy K-pop idols that will give you glimpses into the artistic process and have you hopping on the next plane to Seoul.
April 21, 2024
I finished this book in a single day because I. Could. Not. Put. It. Down.
I laughed, cried, screamed, and scream-laughed through the entire book. On the surface, the novel may seem like a glam story about KPOP artists but there is so much depth and evolution in the character’s histories, motivations, mental health, traumas, and desires. Duan brilliantly utilizes entertainment review snippets, album track lists, and song lyrics to enrich the dynamic story of pop singer Katie Wu, mirroring her character’s journey and transformation. Strap in for an exciting ride that delves into love, friendship, passion, all things KPOP, the wounds parents inflict, and how healing isn’t a linear journey, imbued with wit, humor, and cultural nuggets that made me feel so seen as a first gen Asian American.
Chomping at the bit for the next book in the series! Can’t wait!
I laughed, cried, screamed, and scream-laughed through the entire book. On the surface, the novel may seem like a glam story about KPOP artists but there is so much depth and evolution in the character’s histories, motivations, mental health, traumas, and desires. Duan brilliantly utilizes entertainment review snippets, album track lists, and song lyrics to enrich the dynamic story of pop singer Katie Wu, mirroring her character’s journey and transformation. Strap in for an exciting ride that delves into love, friendship, passion, all things KPOP, the wounds parents inflict, and how healing isn’t a linear journey, imbued with wit, humor, and cultural nuggets that made me feel so seen as a first gen Asian American.
Chomping at the bit for the next book in the series! Can’t wait!
April 23, 2024
The dialogue in this book is unbelievable! The characters felt so real, and I actually CARED about what happened to them. I ordered the hard copy because I want to read it again, slowly, and mark it up!
April 12, 2024
This book took me through an emotional journey.
I was angry, sad, happy and stayed up until 2am because I just couldn’t sleep without finishing it.
The protagonist is a woman who did NOT get on my nerves making unwise decisions. There was so much to her story. There was a lot of great in this book but the one thing I wanted was more of the characters back stories to understand more of who they are.
I can’t wait for the other books in the series to drop!!!!!
I was angry, sad, happy and stayed up until 2am because I just couldn’t sleep without finishing it.
The protagonist is a woman who did NOT get on my nerves making unwise decisions. There was so much to her story. There was a lot of great in this book but the one thing I wanted was more of the characters back stories to understand more of who they are.
I can’t wait for the other books in the series to drop!!!!!
July 28, 2024
What is surprising about this is the cover doesn't match the content, I would have thought the story was to do with myth like greek or Egyptian. I was drawn to the story line of KPOP and MPOP idols and what their lives are like as well as romance between three of them. The flashbacks were rather confusing and I am unsure when present day is (the chapters switch between 2015, 2016, 2020, 2021, 2023, 2025, 2026) I couldn’t distinguish all the members of DOYEN
TW: relationship abuse, abortion, PTSD, suicide ideation, self harm, toxic father, difficulty getting pregnant (not the FMC)
Katie Wu has had toxic relationships and maintained her friendship with members of DOYEN. They see her struggle mentally and physically as she juggles being a singer along with her personal life. Two of the members fall for her: Akihiro and Do-won but they are not with her at the same time.
There are happy and sweet moments between the members and her. I liked how they became a found family over the ten years of knowing each other and seeing each other through different life milestones. She even becomes close to one of their wives, Mina.
The author took effort to represent her trauma and PTSD as real as possible with the her needing anti anxiety medication and experiencing suicide ideation, depression, brain fog, confusion and more. I liked that the author didn’t just make it so that romantic love heals her and having different needs when it comes to sex was a big point between Akhiro and her.
The life of an idol is fraught with stress physically and mentally: the author shows how the boys struggle with their artiste persona vs who they really are and pretending to be happy and presentable as they are public figures. Katie even has stomach issues due to the stress.
There is dialogue as well on the rules placed on women such as pressure to be able to have babies and to portray yourself in a certain way to the world.
The writing didn't always click for me, some of the banter felt natural and some stilted. I wasn't sure about the two love interests as well.
Representation: People of colour, PTSD
Tropes: Found family, friends to lovers
TW: relationship abuse, abortion, PTSD, suicide ideation, self harm, toxic father, difficulty getting pregnant (not the FMC)
Katie Wu has had toxic relationships and maintained her friendship with members of DOYEN. They see her struggle mentally and physically as she juggles being a singer along with her personal life. Two of the members fall for her: Akihiro and Do-won but they are not with her at the same time.
There are happy and sweet moments between the members and her. I liked how they became a found family over the ten years of knowing each other and seeing each other through different life milestones. She even becomes close to one of their wives, Mina.
The author took effort to represent her trauma and PTSD as real as possible with the her needing anti anxiety medication and experiencing suicide ideation, depression, brain fog, confusion and more. I liked that the author didn’t just make it so that romantic love heals her and having different needs when it comes to sex was a big point between Akhiro and her.
The life of an idol is fraught with stress physically and mentally: the author shows how the boys struggle with their artiste persona vs who they really are and pretending to be happy and presentable as they are public figures. Katie even has stomach issues due to the stress.
There is dialogue as well on the rules placed on women such as pressure to be able to have babies and to portray yourself in a certain way to the world.
The writing didn't always click for me, some of the banter felt natural and some stilted. I wasn't sure about the two love interests as well.
Representation: People of colour, PTSD
Tropes: Found family, friends to lovers
December 23, 2024
"Romance is to trick you into loving someone before you find out all their nasty, hidden parts." -Katie Wu
"You talking about people in general or just yourself?"- Akihiro
Illusive is an immersive story that takes readers behind the scenes of the K-pop world, blending glitz and glam with raw, emotional feelings. At its core, it’s not just about romance, it’s a powerful tale of personal growth, resilience, and the lasting effects of trauma.
The story follows Katie Wu, a talented solo artist with a guarded heart and a deep reluctance toward love and connection. As the story unfolds, Katie’s layers are peeled back, revealing a character who is deeply flawed yet incredibly relatable. When Katie befriends a K-pop boy band, her world shifts. This tight-knit group becomes her community, offering support and understanding during her toughest moments.
Katie’s journey isn’t all bright lights and adoring fans. The book tackles heavy themes like anxiety, depression, and the darker sides of fame. Through Katie’s ups and downs, Illusive paints a realistic picture of how healing takes time significant effort and self-reflection.
Fans of K-pop will enjoy the book’s creative touches, including fictional song lyrics, album reviews, and the behind-the-scenes chaos of idol life. But even if you’re new to the K-pop scene, Katie’s story will resonate. Her struggles and triumphs feel real, and her journey will have you laughing, crying, and rooting for her every step of the way.
"You talking about people in general or just yourself?"- Akihiro
Illusive is an immersive story that takes readers behind the scenes of the K-pop world, blending glitz and glam with raw, emotional feelings. At its core, it’s not just about romance, it’s a powerful tale of personal growth, resilience, and the lasting effects of trauma.
The story follows Katie Wu, a talented solo artist with a guarded heart and a deep reluctance toward love and connection. As the story unfolds, Katie’s layers are peeled back, revealing a character who is deeply flawed yet incredibly relatable. When Katie befriends a K-pop boy band, her world shifts. This tight-knit group becomes her community, offering support and understanding during her toughest moments.
Katie’s journey isn’t all bright lights and adoring fans. The book tackles heavy themes like anxiety, depression, and the darker sides of fame. Through Katie’s ups and downs, Illusive paints a realistic picture of how healing takes time significant effort and self-reflection.
Fans of K-pop will enjoy the book’s creative touches, including fictional song lyrics, album reviews, and the behind-the-scenes chaos of idol life. But even if you’re new to the K-pop scene, Katie’s story will resonate. Her struggles and triumphs feel real, and her journey will have you laughing, crying, and rooting for her every step of the way.
May 21, 2024
Katie and most of the main characters are fictitious K-pop stars. Sprinkled throughout the story are fictional album reviews, song lists, and even partial lyrics. Katie's album tie directly to what is going on in her life and the mood she is in at that time.
As I am not well-versed in Korean culture, I occasionally pulled out my phone to search for words used.
Katie has left an abusive relationship and the trauma has followed her back to Seoul. The story jumps between times in Katie's life. Time before Tony, time during her abusive relationship with Tony, and then the years after escaping. Readers should note that some topics could be triggering for people.
While I do not have anything as traumatic as what Katie goes through, I still felt so many emotions as she struggled to find her place in the world and ultimately finding love.
I found the story compelling and the flow exceptional. This book is on the "spicy" side compared to what I usually read, but that didn't stop me from plowing through the pages.
Job well done, Virginia!
As I am not well-versed in Korean culture, I occasionally pulled out my phone to search for words used.
Katie has left an abusive relationship and the trauma has followed her back to Seoul. The story jumps between times in Katie's life. Time before Tony, time during her abusive relationship with Tony, and then the years after escaping. Readers should note that some topics could be triggering for people.
While I do not have anything as traumatic as what Katie goes through, I still felt so many emotions as she struggled to find her place in the world and ultimately finding love.
I found the story compelling and the flow exceptional. This book is on the "spicy" side compared to what I usually read, but that didn't stop me from plowing through the pages.
Job well done, Virginia!
April 23, 2024
Not sure why Amazon has this fantastic book marked as poetry unless it's going off the few poetic song lyrics Duan has crafted for her characters and shared throughout? The book is actually a fictional story around K-Pop stars, their music, lives, vulnerability, & love. One thing that really stuck out to me was the true depth of the friendships in this book. May we all be so lucky to have people that care so hard in our darkest of moments.
May 22, 2024
This is not my usual genre, but I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. The emotional rollercoaster of trauma and healing was well written. The album reviews and lyrics between chapters were my favorite. I'd love to read more stories about each of the DOYEN members.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews