The Illusions of Innocence

Titans of Terranea #2

by Natasha Pierce

If only her innocence could outshine the chaos and deception of our world.

When this woman walked into my home, I had no clue what to expect. She was quiet; demure, even. Sweet-natured and compliant.

Then he happened. The one guy I’ve competed against for years started targeting her. She sat back, taking everything he orchestrated to hurt her. Even though I’m pissed at him, I still feel drawn to him, almost like he needs me as much as I need him

Then tragedy struck. Her innocence held her back, but I can slowly see the real woman underneath as she battles to stand her ground. The one with dirty dreams and intense needs. The one to match my stamina and hunger. Turns out, though, she is fated to another. One who I can’t seem to avoid; the man who quietly stands with me by her side.

How can these three souls have a piece of my body and heart?


I don’t care. I’m going to fight to keep her and protect her, regardless if they stand with me or against me. I’ll figure out everything else along the way. And I will do everything to help the illusions of her innocence fall away, revealing the goddess I’ve always known her to be.
This will be a dark romance series where the female main character won't choose between her love interests. For trope and warning details, please visit the author's website.

292 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 5, 2024

Reviews

[Krista Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

The way I want to run the streets screaming over the ending of this book. This book gave me so much anxiety that I had to put it down and walk away for a bit because my heart couldn’t handle it haha. I was honestly scared of what was going to happen but I was able to finish today and I’m glad I did.

A lot has happened in this book and I can’t imagine what is going to happen in the third book. We pick up where we left off in the first book and I can’t even begin to tell you how I feel. All I can say is there is a lot of spice this time that had me hot under the collar haha. The bullying isn’t as bad in this book but it is still there and I know it will go into the third book. Now that one I am scared for because of how this book ended.

All in all everyone needs to read this book…read this series!

[Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Darker Book 2

The Illusions of Innocence is book 2 of the Titans of Terranea series. I am loving the slow burn and the growing group. Book 2 is darker than book 1, expecting 3 to continue this trend. Another cliffhanger.

[Megan Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the best fantasy books I've read this year. I love the different creatures and powers. I'm in love with talon and Kane and want to castrate Silas.

[Mel · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Rating: ★★★★★

"The Illusions of Innocence" by Natasha Pierce is a captivating addition to the Titans of Terranea series, blending fantasy and dark romance into an engaging narrative. From the first page, the story grips with its intricate plot twists and dramatic elements, drawing readers into a world where chaos and deception reign.

The protagonist begins as a quiet, demure woman whose strength gradually emerges as she navigates complex relationships and faces personal tragedies. Her transformation from innocence to resilience is compelling, revealing a bold and passionate character beneath her initial facade. The dynamics between her, a longtime rival, and another man who supports her add depth and tension to the story.

One of the novel’s strengths lies in its character development. The protagonist's journey of self-discovery is particularly inspiring, and the chemistry among the characters is palpable. Natasha Pierce excels at creating suspense and emotional highs and lows, making the narrative unpredictable and engaging.

Pierce's writing style is immersive and evocative, bringing the fantasy setting to life and engaging readers from start to finish. However, the pacing can be uneven at times, with certain sections moving quickly while others drag. The cliffhanger ending, while setting up the next book, feels somewhat abrupt and might leave readers wanting more immediate resolution. Additionally, some secondary characters lack depth, which could have enriched the story further.

Despite these critiques, there are many aspects to enjoy. The romantic and dramatic elements are well-executed, and the protagonist’s growth adds a strong emotional core to the story.

"The Illusions of Innocence" will appeal to fans of fantasy dark romance who enjoy complex character dynamics and dramatic plot twists. Readers who appreciate stories of personal growth and resilience will also be drawn to the protagonist's transformation.

In conclusion, "The Illusions of Innocence" is a compelling read that blends fantasy and dark romance seamlessly. Natasha Pierce's storytelling continues to shine, making this book a must-read for fans of the genre. If you're looking for a captivating story with complex characters and a gripping plot, "The Illusions of Innocence" is an excellent choice.

[Shelby Seal(Allen) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I may have devoured this second book in one sitting. I was so ready after the cliff hanger of book 1: The Seduction in Starlight. And let me tell ya... This did NOT disappoint!

Please check the trigger warnings and take them to heart! Make sure you're in the right mental space to read this cuz it does get dark! (I love dark so I don't mind at all lol)

Sweet babygirl Talon 💛 he has my whole heart at this point and I feel we must protect him at all costs! I loved seeing him open up more in this second book.

Kane is genuinely such a great guy and I just know he will continue to protect Harbor in anyway he can. He really brought the spice this go round and I can't wait to get more from him!

Silas... 😡 I want to love Silas I truly do, but right now he's on my shit list and idk how he's gonna get off it anytime soon. Ugh this one frustrates me so much!! But this is also how I know he is written so well, because I connect with this character even if it is in a negative way. I love when characters make me genuinely angry! (Maybe I should look into that? 😂)

Harbor. 💜💙 my darling girl is about to go THROUGH it and I'm already crying for her! Just when I thought things were starting to look up a little bit for her, boy was I wrong. 😅 I just know she's about to go through some trauma before the light at the end of the tunnel. I'm rooting for my girl and hope she keeps her strength alive!

Aside from getting to know these wonderful characters, there this underlying history going on that I NEED to know more about and CANNOT wait for the next book! Ah I thought the cliff hanger of book 1 was bad, welp, WRONG again! 😂

Thank you to Natasha Pierce for writing this fantastic series, I'm genuinely so excited to continue following your journey and this story!

I read this book as an advanced reader copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Booksbystarlightandshadows · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book one ended with an absolute bang and I really enjoyed the emotional moments which came out in the first half of this book as a result of what happened to Bonnie. Silas' thoughts and emotions made sense at this point as he blames Harbor but I was surprised he didn't take it up on himself to prove how she was involved. Instead, that plotline about the culprit is just left unresolved for the time being and we've moved onto the dodgy club Silas' dad is running instead. The mythology of this world was something I wanted to know more about but the focus seems to be on the non-supernatural plotlines for the moment which just left me wanting more after the prologue; I am still invested in the series but hope we get some answers in the next book to some of the questions which haven't been resolved yet.

I did find the overall pacing a little sluggish although it ramped up at the ende and I had a niggle with some of the dialogue; it seemed to switch gears and become very formal rather than conversational at certain points which took me out a little. I liked the evolution of the relationships in this and how although they overlap, there is time taken to establish each connection particularly with the male characters. Silas is still a big red flag though; I really don't know how he can come back from this in a genuine way where he is welcomed with open arms after those final few chapters.

My interpretation of the star system;
3 stars - I enjoyed it; would read the author again
4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series
5 stars - I loved it; I engaged with this book completely until I finished it and it is one I will re-read

[Tabytha Boozenny · Rating 4 out of 5]

The prologue threw me off at first, but the the book picks up right where the last one ends. At first I was glad to see that Harbor's father was actually being a father concerned for his daughter. It seemed a little short lived for a woman who nearly died and lost her best friend. But he is detached from her anyway. I was a little surprised by Collette though.

I always wondered why Kane, Talon, and Silas were all so obsessed with Harbor, but after the prologue I have a theory that they are all connected somehow through their mothers' friendship. Is Talon the son of the friend that was lost in the car accident?

The conversations seem a bit awkward sometimes. Thinking about the way I talk to my friends and family...it's so much more casual.

The spice was definitely, definitely spicing, lol. I just wish that there had been a little more substance outside of that. Like you have the bread of the sandwich and you have the meat, but where are the fixins?(Weird analogy I know! Sorry!! 😂)

And what is Silas's deal? I mean I know he is a hot head thanks partly to his dragon I'm sure. But did the thought actually talk to Harbor ever occur to him. Or before Bethany was killed talk to her about her "new" friend? Does he actually think his solution is better?? Now what will the boys think but more importantly DO when they find out???

I read The Illusions of Innocence as an ARC. I wrote my review of my own volition.

[Salsy · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.25★
4 🌶️

Book 2 in the Titans of Terranea picks up right where book 1 left off, and I absolutely loved how there was a "where we left off" chapter at the beginning. The prologue too! It gave so much insight to what may happen, showing connections that felt important.

I loved seeing how all of the characters relationships developed in this book. Both with Harbor, and the guys with each other too.

Talon - He went from awkward to smooth, hot, protective and dominant.

Kane - He was making my heart melt at times, but I love when he turns the spice up a notch.

Silas - wtf. I’m struggling to see him as anything but a petulant child with a grudge in this one. I for-see truck loads of groveling in his future.

Harbor, as much as I like her, there were times in this where she really could have communicated better. I love seeing her on her self-discovery journey though.

This book was definitely more focused on the relationship building than anything else, but Silas’s side storyline was definitely paving the road ahead for Harbor. The pacing of this book was slow at times, there was a lot of reading the same scene from a different POV, but the abundance of spice in this one makes up for it!

The cliffhanger seems like it’s going to lead to a darker path, and I can’t wait for book 3 to come!

[Abby · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This is the second installment of The Titans of Terranea and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. I enjoyed the first book very much and couldn’t wait to dive into the second one. I love Natasha Pierce’s way of world building and character building. Our main FMC, Harbor, is going through her life and navigating all these hardships. However, during this time, we see her grow into a strong woman. You really see her transformation in the narration. The book starts off by continuing where book one left off. I suppose you don’t need to brush up on book one, but it’s still good to read to get the real storyline of everything. It’ll make more sense. The first story left us on a cliffhanger, and guess what? The second does as well. Let me tell you, my jaw dropped, though. That ending was just something else. We will just have to wait for book three to see what happens next. I feel like there was just no turning back to what happened. I think we are all just waiting for the HEA.

[TheheartofBrigid · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Illusions of Innocence is the second book in the Titans of Terranea written by Natasha Pierce.

💜 strong FMC
💜 found family
💜 university setting
💜 bully
💜 🌶🌶🌶🌶spice

This book picks right up where the first book leaves off. Harbor hurts all over. Why does she hurt so badly? She doesn’t recognize where she is. When she tries to stand the first time, it’s to hard to hold up her weight. She needs to find out what’s happening. She can hear voices outside of her room. Do they have answers for her? Can they help her figure out what happened?

This was a good continuation from book one. Harbor goes through so much and is so strong. Her interaction with the guys only grows too. There are some hard themes that happen within this story. But, I did enjoy watching her relationship with Talon and Kane grow. This book does end on a cliffhanger. I can’t wait for the next book to release so I can see what will happen next.

[Sandy Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to say that I appreciate that you put a “where we left off” in the book. I wish more authors would do that when their books are series that leave you on a cliffhanger.

So for me, where book one was a slow burn and a tease book two brought all the heat!!!! I mean, it has it all. All different combination of partners and it was hot! I had to re-read some chapters. But seriously Natasha, when Harbor sat on Kane’s lap and Talon did his thing. I was screaming!!!!

OK, so for the storyline, we still don’t know who killed Bethany. there’s so many unanswered questions. I am very weary about Hudson, Harbor’s father and Silas’ father are very sus to me. And Isabella’s story has me scratching my head because I still haven’t put two and two together.

This storyline has me all twisted, but one thing is for sure … I still despise Silas!!!!!!!!

Bring me book 3!!! I need to know what is happening to Harbor!!!

[Tina Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok so I absolutely love pnr books. And the first book in this series got me hooked. Like all the characters are so unique and really their own. And I've been trying to come up with a comparison for y'all that would give you a hint of what to expect but one expect the unexpected. But it's it's own book. I've not read any pnr book like this one that I can remember and I love it. But I need more!! Lord I am loving these men even the butth*@d Silas!! I just don't know if I will survive these four books!! The love and loss we have already experienced has already broke me. And then all the mystery in between. I promise you will not be disappointed in this book but you will need to read the first book!! ~ by Tina 

[amy Boddy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I devoured book one in this series and couldn't wait to get through this one!

I still love the characters, the smexy scenes are beautifully written and the juicy cliffhanger definitely made me scream and pull my hair out ready for the next book!

This book does spend a lot of the story repeating what's already happened but just from a different POV so I did feel myself skipping forward a bit, and please remember the characters are teenagers. The character interactions came across slightly immature at times so I had to remind myself of the ages of the characters and related to when I was young and dumb.

An enjoyable adult why choose fantasy series so.
far.

I'm now so scared for harbour and so excited to see what happens next all at the same time!!

[Tonya Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This second book in series has left me speechless. I had to process my feelings before this review.
Harbor has been through so much already. In walks not one, not two, but three men she wants.
Talon is so sweet, protective, and loving to her.
Kane is protective and wants to please her.
Silas... he is mean and vindictive. She is drawn to him though just as he is to her. There is definitely more to their story.
This book was hot and spicy! Things progressed wonderfully and I didn't want to put the book down! I just had to know what happened next.
The ending.... no. I just can't. I just have to trust this author. I just don't know if I can wait!
I love the characters and the storyline. This series so far has been at the top of my favorite reads this year.

[Nora · Rating 5 out of 5]

That I really do mean too. I love this series already so much and a lot is happening. I couldn't even put down this book even if I wanted to. There are warnings and if you have things that make you uncomfortable don't forget to check them. Mental health is important. I love the intricate story woven here. Silas I wanna throw water in the face and that isn't enough let me tell you. My heart goes out to Harbor and the things she must face before it gets better. At the end of the long tunnel there is light. This one brings all the heat in the story and boy book 1 didn't prepare me enough. Gotta love Kane and Talon though. Need more!

[CASSIE STOCKDALE · Rating 5 out of 5]

AAAAAH, yet again...I'm left wanting more!

Book 1 left us with a cliffhanger but NP was sure to catch us right back up and get us ready for the action. And action there WAS...iykyk! We went from slow burn and world building in book one TO ABSOLUTE FLAAAAAMES in book 2. Harbor is really adapting and "growing" so much as a character! I love getting to know the guys more and more through the books. This world, different than anything I've ever read and is so interesting to me! I find myself slowing down to really catch all of the details! And of course, at the end of book 2 I'm left wanting even MORE!

[⭐️ mrs_munken_555 ⭐️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

OH MY GOD!!
Book 1's cliffhanger ending was swiftly picked back up at the start of Book 2 and it did not disappoint at all!
The character development is on point - you learn more about Talon, Kane and Silas and the individual relationships with Harbor as well as see the relationship development between them (which I LOVE)
The story flows so beautifully and usually I am not a fan of a slow burn but this is so well done, it absorbs you in and it doesn't matter how slow it may be!
The spice is amazing - a well earned 4.5/5 and the ending... another cliffhanger that literally had me screaming at my kindle!!!
I cannot wait for Book 3!!!

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book starts off right from book one, if you have not read it, I recommend reading that first even with the where we were last off. Plus read, I mean read, the triggers! Oh man this book. I'm like where in the world is this one going to lead and I'm over here devouring this book because I need to know. Oh Harbor, the things she goes through. One day something will go her way, I swear. I feel like I'm gonna be a team Talon kind of girl. I mean all the guys are great and seeing their characters form more, something about Talon though. Then again I'm worried that can change in the next book because that is always my luck. Just be prepared for the ending. Can't wait to read the next one?

[Teresa Juckett (Love Dark Reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg what a book. From start to that just wth is he going to do cliffhanger I was engrossed in this book, so needless to say I need the next book. This picks up where the 1st book left off at and didn't stop with all the suspense and drama that keeps coming for Harbor. Hmmm I wonder why that is? This is a slow burn read but there's so many thing's that happen and what's with Silas and his angry lil self, so yes you definitely need to grab this up. I'm so ready to get some answers, hopefully in the next book.

[AJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

🫣😳😭🫢🥵
I went through all of those emotions ten fold. Like whaaaaat?!
The Illusions of Innocence picks up right where The Seduction in Starlight left off. Kane and Talon are perfect in every way. Silas is still the biggest d!ck on the block. My girl Harbor, well, she is flawless. She is vivacious and caring and I want to be her. Sort of…
The cliffy have got me feeling all sort of things that I can’t quite put into words. I need my girl to get her HEA as soon as humanly(?) possible

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

[quillsandpages · Rating 4 out of 5]

It started well but then slowed down. I got a little bit bored in between, but then everything suddenly became interesting. The last chapter threw me off. I didn't know what happened until it happened, lol. There was a massive cliffhanger 😭😭. Anyway, it was a good book. You have to read the warnings before reading it.
Blog | Linktree | Bookstagram Review

[Kalexreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!!!! So much happens in this book! Some of which is really not good for Harbor, so definitely check all the trigger warnings. This is a little bit of a slower burn, but the spice that does happen is yummy!!! Everyone is still trying to figure out who they are to each other, as well as the bigger picture of what’s going on in the world around them and outside of Terranea. After that cliffhanger, I am definitely looking forward to the next book!

[Toni Amey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was such a wild ride and just as good as the first book in this series. Once I started reading I couldn’t put it down till I finished it. Harbor is becoming the person she is wanting to become, however through the twist and turns the ending of this book got dark very quickly. I can’t wait for the next one to come out. I just know the next book is gonna get even more dark, but I can’t wait to witness the HEA. This series has got me in a chokehold already. 10/10 read for me!!

[Michelle Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

The plot thickens. We are back once more as we watch Harbor try to deal with the aftermath that took place in book 1. We are gutted, we are emotionally drained. We have guys like Kane abd Talon who would absolutely raze the whole world to protect Harbor. Then there’s Silas. Right now Silas is nothing more than a common bully who refuses to listen to reason. At this point, I’m ready to throat punch him. I’m also anxious to see what is in store for Harbor in book 3!

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book two picks up where that rather mean cliffhanger left us! Continuing harbours story!

With a strong FMC! I really enjoyed this continuation and cannot wait to see what happens next because ermm hello another flipping cliffy!!

I love a good dark why choose and this is no exception and I don’t always read fantasy romance but this mixed the two together well and I was hooked from the beginning!!

[liv · Rating 5 out of 5]

My first 5 star review of the year in this category!

The story picks up where book 1 left off and had a nice recap in the beginning (I didn’t need it but it was good to have anyway IMO!)

In this book, you get: more character development, a shocking revelation and lots of spice, angst, and a few moments that had me grinning (and others that had me blush!) 😅.

This does end on a cliffhanger but AHHH I can’t wait for the next in the series.

How long until we get our HEA Natasha?!

[Kayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got this book as an arc and loved it, especially how this book started off right where the other ended because of that cliffhanger. I find most authors jump around when the next book comes after but this one did not disappoint and gave a little refresher before diving in. I am loving this series from the characters to the spice and how it keeps you on your toes and wanting to read more. I can’t wait for the next book with this cliffhanger ending…

[Felicia's Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, this book was amazing. This book is only a second in the series and OMG was it packed with information and plot. We are now learning more about Harbor and what she is dealing with now and in the past. The guys Kane and Talon are falling fast and hard to keep Harbor safe. Silas is lost and confused so is lashing out as a bully but I can't wait for the groveling to happen. The CLIFFHANGER OMG! I can’t wait for the next book to see what will happen next.

[Lizz_reads._ · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG!!! SHE DID IT AGAIN !! 😩❤️ This book oh god sooo much happens and I mean so much. First and foremost the dedication ahh I’m in love !! 😍 The things that happen and the the couples oh god holy f—k 🥵 they’re everything 🫶🏻🫶🏻 I’m absolutely obsessed with every single character in this book and the book itself !! 💜💜 WHY CHOOSE BY NATASHA PIERCE FOR THE WIN 🛐💜🙌

[Paige Wuerdemann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got an ARC of this book from the author and I was not disappointed!

I kept flipping the pages and devouring the words as fast as I was able to because I needed to know what was going to happen next.

And the spicy scenes between the characters were perfect!

The cliffhanger killed me though! I need the next book now!!