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The Hoodoo Apprentice #3
Illusion
Things aren't always as they appear… New school. Cross-country move. Broken heart. If only these were Emma Guthrie's worst problems. Instead, she must battle a trio of enemies—human and spectral—who may or may not have joined forces against her and everyone she loves. All while pretending to be over Cooper Beaumont, her ex-boyfriend and true love, to shield him from her arch-nemesis's revenge. Worse, when the fight escalates, Emma is tempted to use black magic, which will endanger her soul. As her enemies close in, join forces, and fight with new and dark magic she's never seen before, Emma must harness the power within her to fulfill an ancient prophecy, defeat a centuries-old evil, save her family, and reclaim the only boy she's ever loved.
370 pages, Paperback
First published October 5, 2015
2 people are currently reading
602 people want to read
About the author
Lea Nolan
13 books388 followersLea Nolan is a USA Today bestselling author who writes witty contemporary stories filled with head-swooning, heart-throbbing, sweep-you-off your feet romance. She also pens books for young adults featuring bright heroines, crazy-hot heroes, diabolical plot twists, plus a dose of magic, a draft of romance, and a sprinkle of history.
Born and raised on Long Island, New York, she loves the water far too much to live inland. With her heroically supportive husband and three clever children, she resides in Maryland where she cracks crabs and bakes ugly birthday cakes.
http://bit.ly/LeaNolanNewsletter
Born and raised on Long Island, New York, she loves the water far too much to live inland. With her heroically supportive husband and three clever children, she resides in Maryland where she cracks crabs and bakes ugly birthday cakes.
http://bit.ly/LeaNolanNewsletter
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
October 6, 2015
Once picking this up and diving in, it didn't take me long to remember why I loved this series so much.
With it's rather unique premises and wonderful writing, I was quickly once again immersed in the story and couldn't wait to see how it all ended for Jack, Emma, and Cooper.
Filled with the eery, the magical, the wicked, and a fabulous southern background, I love the mystical side of this series. Fantastic characters that grow with each new installment and a darker side filled with hate, revenge, and the demonic, this series truly is fabulous and one that stands out in the genre.
I love how much Emma grows in this, not only in powers and confidence but as a person, friend, sister, and daughter. I always say but it always bares repeating, I am all about the character growth. It is one of my most favorite things to see in a series, especially one like this where growing matters so much to keep the story flowing and going in the direction that it should.
Nolan did a wonder job tying everything up and ending this in a way that fit the theme and mood of the rest of the books. I absolutely had so much fun once again being immersed in this world and the wait for this, was so worth it. I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.
*An ARC Copy of this was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
With it's rather unique premises and wonderful writing, I was quickly once again immersed in the story and couldn't wait to see how it all ended for Jack, Emma, and Cooper.
Filled with the eery, the magical, the wicked, and a fabulous southern background, I love the mystical side of this series. Fantastic characters that grow with each new installment and a darker side filled with hate, revenge, and the demonic, this series truly is fabulous and one that stands out in the genre.
I love how much Emma grows in this, not only in powers and confidence but as a person, friend, sister, and daughter. I always say but it always bares repeating, I am all about the character growth. It is one of my most favorite things to see in a series, especially one like this where growing matters so much to keep the story flowing and going in the direction that it should.
Nolan did a wonder job tying everything up and ending this in a way that fit the theme and mood of the rest of the books. I absolutely had so much fun once again being immersed in this world and the wait for this, was so worth it. I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.
*An ARC Copy of this was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
October 7, 2015
**I received this book for free from (Publisher) via (NetGalley) in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.**
*Genre* Young Adult, Paranormal
*Rating* 3.5-4
*My Thoughts*
Set in the South Carolina Low-country, Illusion is the final installment in The Hoodoo Apprentice trilogy. 14-year old protagonist Emmaline (Emma) Guthrie has been tested over and over again by various forces of evil ever since she became a hoodoo (root worker) apprentice to 97-year old Cordelia "Delia" Whittaker. She's saved her brother Jack from a 300-year old curse known as the Creep. She saved her best friend and romantic interest Cooper Beaumont from his families curse that was supposed to kick in when he turned Sixteen, as well as an Allure curse that was placed on him by one of Emma's adversaries.
*Full Review Posted 10/05/2015 as part of blog tour*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
Expected publication: October 5th 2015 by Entangled Teen
*Genre* Young Adult, Paranormal
*Rating* 3.5-4
*My Thoughts*
Set in the South Carolina Low-country, Illusion is the final installment in The Hoodoo Apprentice trilogy. 14-year old protagonist Emmaline (Emma) Guthrie has been tested over and over again by various forces of evil ever since she became a hoodoo (root worker) apprentice to 97-year old Cordelia "Delia" Whittaker. She's saved her brother Jack from a 300-year old curse known as the Creep. She saved her best friend and romantic interest Cooper Beaumont from his families curse that was supposed to kick in when he turned Sixteen, as well as an Allure curse that was placed on him by one of Emma's adversaries.
*Full Review Posted 10/05/2015 as part of blog tour*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
Expected publication: October 5th 2015 by Entangled Teen
February 11, 2017
This and other reviews can be found on The Psychotic Nerd
I received an ecopy of this book in exchange for a honest review
MY THOUGHTS
This is a very interesting series, definitely unique among all the paranormal clones so I was excited to pick the conclusion to this series up. It took a bit for me to get into at first, due to book amnesia, but once I did, I found a very high-stakes conclusion!
Emma is just starting up at a new school, if only that were the worst of her problems. Someone she cares for could go to jail, an evil spirit is intent on revenge by destroying everything Emma loves, and there's a bully who isn't afraid to use dark magic. Emma wants to make sure that she, and all those that she loves, can survive this, but will she destroy her soul in her search for her own revenge?
This book immediately dives into the action, which is okay, but I was just very confused. I had difficulty remembering the events in the last book (due to my terrible memory), so I had no clue what was going on in the first few chapters. Thankfully, I was able to get my memory back and be able to fully understand what was going on. This book gives you enough details of the last books for you to understand things (if it's been awhile), but not too much info to annoy those that are binge-reading the series, so I'm thankful for that.
As for the plot, this book felt so different than the other books. Being the conclusion, there is a lot more going on. Emma basically has three different enemies in this one, which is not an easy thing to take care of. Thus, this book was a lot more action-packed than the previous book. It was so hard to put this book down, since I needed to know what would happen next! I also mentioned earlier how unique this series is among the YA paranormals. This entire series is about Hoodoo, the entire plot is just so different.
The setting of this book and the overall feeling is different from the other books too. The other books take place in the summer, while this one takes place during the start of school. This setting change actually dramatically changes things. This book also felt somewhat darker than the other books. The other books were dark, of course, but I felt like this book was entirely dark, if that makes any sense.
As for characters, Emma definitely does grow throughout the series. It's hard for me to recall what she was like in the beginning of the series, but it's hard for me to realize that Emma isn't even 15. Emma has had to grow up so much and she's become such a strong girl. This book also has a focus on Emma's character, since she has to fight the darkness in herself.
As for romance, there wasn't a whole lot of it, mostly due to the events of the last book. I'm torn on the romance. The romance of this series is more light than some other YA books, but I also don't like how in love they are. I guess I'm just a non-romantic, but I always have a hard time believing that high schoolers are that in love. Still, it doesn't distract at all from the story, so I won't complain too much.
IN CONCLUSION
Overall, I thought this was a fantastic conclusion to this series! This is actually my favorite out of the three! This book was action-packed, dark, and so very different than other books out there. I really think that more people should know about this series, meanwhile, I'll be waiting for more by Lea Nolan.
I received an ecopy of this book in exchange for a honest review
MY THOUGHTS
This is a very interesting series, definitely unique among all the paranormal clones so I was excited to pick the conclusion to this series up. It took a bit for me to get into at first, due to book amnesia, but once I did, I found a very high-stakes conclusion!
Emma is just starting up at a new school, if only that were the worst of her problems. Someone she cares for could go to jail, an evil spirit is intent on revenge by destroying everything Emma loves, and there's a bully who isn't afraid to use dark magic. Emma wants to make sure that she, and all those that she loves, can survive this, but will she destroy her soul in her search for her own revenge?
This book immediately dives into the action, which is okay, but I was just very confused. I had difficulty remembering the events in the last book (due to my terrible memory), so I had no clue what was going on in the first few chapters. Thankfully, I was able to get my memory back and be able to fully understand what was going on. This book gives you enough details of the last books for you to understand things (if it's been awhile), but not too much info to annoy those that are binge-reading the series, so I'm thankful for that.
As for the plot, this book felt so different than the other books. Being the conclusion, there is a lot more going on. Emma basically has three different enemies in this one, which is not an easy thing to take care of. Thus, this book was a lot more action-packed than the previous book. It was so hard to put this book down, since I needed to know what would happen next! I also mentioned earlier how unique this series is among the YA paranormals. This entire series is about Hoodoo, the entire plot is just so different.
The setting of this book and the overall feeling is different from the other books too. The other books take place in the summer, while this one takes place during the start of school. This setting change actually dramatically changes things. This book also felt somewhat darker than the other books. The other books were dark, of course, but I felt like this book was entirely dark, if that makes any sense.
As for characters, Emma definitely does grow throughout the series. It's hard for me to recall what she was like in the beginning of the series, but it's hard for me to realize that Emma isn't even 15. Emma has had to grow up so much and she's become such a strong girl. This book also has a focus on Emma's character, since she has to fight the darkness in herself.
As for romance, there wasn't a whole lot of it, mostly due to the events of the last book. I'm torn on the romance. The romance of this series is more light than some other YA books, but I also don't like how in love they are. I guess I'm just a non-romantic, but I always have a hard time believing that high schoolers are that in love. Still, it doesn't distract at all from the story, so I won't complain too much.
IN CONCLUSION
Overall, I thought this was a fantastic conclusion to this series! This is actually my favorite out of the three! This book was action-packed, dark, and so very different than other books out there. I really think that more people should know about this series, meanwhile, I'll be waiting for more by Lea Nolan.
October 9, 2015
Note: This is the third book in the series, but I have omitted any spoilers.
I’ve been very busy with work lately, and I haven’t really had the time to read or blog. However, I certainly couldn’t pass up reading and sharing about the last book of the Hoodoo Apprentice series. I’ve pretty much been waiting for this book for about 2 years, and I’m so happy I finally got to read it. I wasn’t able to re-read the previous books, like I would normally do for a series, but I can honestly say that The Hoodoo Apprentice series has been one of the most memorable I’ve read out of hundreds, though I did re-read Conjure, book 1, about 3 times or more.
The first chapter of Illusion was certainly exciting, with the appearance of a villain wielding a giant sword composed of demon spirits. And more just kept coming along the way. Illusion - and the books before it - brings into light the history and culture of hoodoo and voodoo, which makes the whole series special. Lea Nolan did a lot of research on hoodoo and took this concept and expanded upon it into epic proportions. I know that a lot of it is fiction, but there are times I couldn’t help but feel this could all be real. I think basing things on reality tends to do that.
This is the third and last book in the series, and once again, I’ve been tricked into thinking that the main character Emma was older than she really was. (This just happens in every book) She has this level of maturity that always makes me think that she’s at least 16. But no, she’s only 14. She was only 14 and dealing with so much, yet she gets through the trials so gracefully. Of course she makes a LOT of mistakes along the way. We all do. But when it comes to those really important moments, she somehow pulls through. She’s imperfect and beautiful.
One of the best characters still is Miss Delia. She’s been my favorite ever since the first book. At 97, she still had a lot of spunk in her. She’s had her dark secrets, which she takes so much from in order to teach Emma the best lessons. She was Emma’s hoodoo mentor, but she was also someone who pushed, and sometimes even shoved (because it was necessary), Emma to be the best person she could be. If you’ve read this, then you probably know what I feel about what happened.
Though Illusion wasn’t my favorite book in the series (Conjure was), this was definitely a good end to the series. There was a point in the end where I already predicted what would happen, but it didn’t really stop me from feeling emotional and a little teary. If you haven’t read this series, I highly recommend it. Plus, this last book came out already so you can go on and binge read it. I would probably do so when I open up my schedule in the future. Lea Nolan’s writing spectacular, and the Hoodoo Apprentice series is one of the most unique I’ve ever read.
Check out the other books in the series, Conjure (Book 1) and Allure (Book 2):
Giveaway
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This review was originally posted on Not So Literary! Book Blog
I’ve been very busy with work lately, and I haven’t really had the time to read or blog. However, I certainly couldn’t pass up reading and sharing about the last book of the Hoodoo Apprentice series. I’ve pretty much been waiting for this book for about 2 years, and I’m so happy I finally got to read it. I wasn’t able to re-read the previous books, like I would normally do for a series, but I can honestly say that The Hoodoo Apprentice series has been one of the most memorable I’ve read out of hundreds, though I did re-read Conjure, book 1, about 3 times or more.
The first chapter of Illusion was certainly exciting, with the appearance of a villain wielding a giant sword composed of demon spirits. And more just kept coming along the way. Illusion - and the books before it - brings into light the history and culture of hoodoo and voodoo, which makes the whole series special. Lea Nolan did a lot of research on hoodoo and took this concept and expanded upon it into epic proportions. I know that a lot of it is fiction, but there are times I couldn’t help but feel this could all be real. I think basing things on reality tends to do that.
This is the third and last book in the series, and once again, I’ve been tricked into thinking that the main character Emma was older than she really was. (This just happens in every book) She has this level of maturity that always makes me think that she’s at least 16. But no, she’s only 14. She was only 14 and dealing with so much, yet she gets through the trials so gracefully. Of course she makes a LOT of mistakes along the way. We all do. But when it comes to those really important moments, she somehow pulls through. She’s imperfect and beautiful.
One of the best characters still is Miss Delia. She’s been my favorite ever since the first book. At 97, she still had a lot of spunk in her. She’s had her dark secrets, which she takes so much from in order to teach Emma the best lessons. She was Emma’s hoodoo mentor, but she was also someone who pushed, and sometimes even shoved (because it was necessary), Emma to be the best person she could be. If you’ve read this, then you probably know what I feel about what happened.
Though Illusion wasn’t my favorite book in the series (Conjure was), this was definitely a good end to the series. There was a point in the end where I already predicted what would happen, but it didn’t really stop me from feeling emotional and a little teary. If you haven’t read this series, I highly recommend it. Plus, this last book came out already so you can go on and binge read it. I would probably do so when I open up my schedule in the future. Lea Nolan’s writing spectacular, and the Hoodoo Apprentice series is one of the most unique I’ve ever read.
Check out the other books in the series, Conjure (Book 1) and Allure (Book 2):
Giveaway
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This review was originally posted on Not So Literary! Book Blog
Read
July 25, 2019It was wonderful and a bit bittersweet to finally reach the end of the series. There were some sad endings but some very promising beginnings too. Loved seeing how it all came together. Those eyes were creepy! Saying goodbye to these characters is hard.
October 5, 2015
Rating 4.5/5
Right from the start this is a racy, action packed adventure moving on swiftly from the previous two novels in this series. You don’t need to have read the earlier novels as the author does an excellent job of ‘filling in’ any gaps in your knowledge about what has already happened but if you’re like me, you’ll find this such an enthralling read you’ll really want to read those earlier stories, too, even though you now know how it ends!
Emma Guthrie has moved home to learn to use Hoodoo, being an apprentice to a strong practitioner of these magical arts only for her mentor to be imprisoned on false charges! She knows she needs to protect anyone she loves, so has officially broken up with her soul mate and the love of her life Cooper Beaumont to try to ensure he remains off the radar of those seeking revenge on her. To top it all she has to start in a new school whilst still battling a trio of enemies who she isn’t convinced as still working alone - have they joined forces to gang up on her? Can she resist the temptation to use black magic? Can she protect her twin brother, her father and Cooper? Can she win the chance to live and achieve her own HEA? And all this when she’s still only fourteen!?!?!
With well formed characters, full of fast paced action this is another definitely different and robust read, a real page turner to keep you enthralled whether you’re a YA or older. With good v evil, romance, relationships all intermixed with mystery and magic this is a compelling story by a talented author.
Thanks to the author, publishers and NetGalley, too for provided an ARC for me to read in exchange for this, my honest review.
Right from the start this is a racy, action packed adventure moving on swiftly from the previous two novels in this series. You don’t need to have read the earlier novels as the author does an excellent job of ‘filling in’ any gaps in your knowledge about what has already happened but if you’re like me, you’ll find this such an enthralling read you’ll really want to read those earlier stories, too, even though you now know how it ends!
Emma Guthrie has moved home to learn to use Hoodoo, being an apprentice to a strong practitioner of these magical arts only for her mentor to be imprisoned on false charges! She knows she needs to protect anyone she loves, so has officially broken up with her soul mate and the love of her life Cooper Beaumont to try to ensure he remains off the radar of those seeking revenge on her. To top it all she has to start in a new school whilst still battling a trio of enemies who she isn’t convinced as still working alone - have they joined forces to gang up on her? Can she resist the temptation to use black magic? Can she protect her twin brother, her father and Cooper? Can she win the chance to live and achieve her own HEA? And all this when she’s still only fourteen!?!?!
With well formed characters, full of fast paced action this is another definitely different and robust read, a real page turner to keep you enthralled whether you’re a YA or older. With good v evil, romance, relationships all intermixed with mystery and magic this is a compelling story by a talented author.
Thanks to the author, publishers and NetGalley, too for provided an ARC for me to read in exchange for this, my honest review.
October 5, 2015
If your not new here, you would know that I recently read and reviewed the first two books in the Hoodoo Apprentice Series and loved them! Illusion is no exception. I loved it!
Illusion is the perfect conclusion to a wonderful Young Adult Parnormal series that I think everyone would love. The characters are wonderful, especially the Hoodoo Master Mrs Delia, who is my favorite. I found the Antagonist, Mr Corbeau, Sabina and Taneea were written to which I both liked them and hated them! There's everything from Romance, to Action and Mystery in Illusion!
After Emma has been working hard to keep her loved ones safe this summer she has to start a new school. Now dealing with curses, ghosts, ailments and every evil force thrown at her she must now defeat those that stand in her way of true happiness and keep her family safe once and for all. Will she be able to defeat Sabine, Corbeau and bring Taneea back to the light?
Lea Nolan does a wonderful job wrapping up the series in a way that leaves you both satisfied and wanting more. I love when that happens. Much too often a series will end either abruptly, leaving you NEEDING more, or way to neat. I was left happy and satisfied after reading Illusion.
This was a fun series to read and I'm thankful to Entangled teen for giving me the opportunity to read and review them!
Illusion is the perfect conclusion to a wonderful Young Adult Parnormal series that I think everyone would love. The characters are wonderful, especially the Hoodoo Master Mrs Delia, who is my favorite. I found the Antagonist, Mr Corbeau, Sabina and Taneea were written to which I both liked them and hated them! There's everything from Romance, to Action and Mystery in Illusion!
After Emma has been working hard to keep her loved ones safe this summer she has to start a new school. Now dealing with curses, ghosts, ailments and every evil force thrown at her she must now defeat those that stand in her way of true happiness and keep her family safe once and for all. Will she be able to defeat Sabine, Corbeau and bring Taneea back to the light?
Lea Nolan does a wonderful job wrapping up the series in a way that leaves you both satisfied and wanting more. I love when that happens. Much too often a series will end either abruptly, leaving you NEEDING more, or way to neat. I was left happy and satisfied after reading Illusion.
This was a fun series to read and I'm thankful to Entangled teen for giving me the opportunity to read and review them!
September 30, 2015
Review to come in the blog tour :3
July 18, 2019
I'm not sure this finish to the Hoodoo Apprentice series quite lived up to the first two books in the trilogy, but then again, it had a lot to live up to. All told, it was a satisfying end to the series even if it did feel a bit rushed at times. I would have liked more, I admit--books two and three just didn't quite have the magic of the first book in the series--but I'm still anxious to pick up whatever Lea Nolan writes next. Certainly, I'd still recommend the trilogy as a whole, though the first book remains my favorite.
October 29, 2025
4.5
Love love this series
Love love this series
October 5, 2015
The content was good. My favorite character is Cooper. He is so patient and sure of himself and Emma. Her brother was a hoot. I love how he is into the research and history of the area and the families from generations past.
I will say this if you haven’ t read the previous books like I haven’t you may want to for there are areas that will be confusing if you don’t. The boo hag, the marriage line, how she came to Miss Delia, all the stuff about her Dad and Cooper’s dad is mentioned, Tanea these need the background from the other books to grasp completely. Other than this it is a fast paced, interesting book that keeps you on your toes and wondering what is next for Emma and her brother and Cooper.
The characters will evoke emotions in you. Cooper is protective and believes strongly in Emma. She keeps pushing him away but he believes in their love. He is always there for her, never a unkind word and tells her that together they are stronger. Her brother is a sweet goofball. That poor guy takes the brunt of the bad juju and has more dangerous and harmful things happen to him and it isn’t until the very end that we are told why. It isn’t even hinted at throughout the book. that was excellent on Ms. Nolan’s part because she sets up the smokescreen for us and Emma and we follow the crumbs.
Claude is evil to the core. You see want revenge can do to a person in time. Make them a shell of a being. Tanea and Sabina are the same. They let past things affect them. Sabina though does get a chance in the end. Tanea her great grandmother did keep hope but that was for no avail.
Miss Delia will keep a smile on your face. She has made mistakes and has paid a price. She is the perfect mentor for Emma because she lived what she preached. she is the sweet cut lady who has spunk and shows us that there is more to her than you know. Same goes for Emma’s friend Zora.
Emma is the loner. She doesn’t stand out at school and doesn’t really make friends. Except Zora and this friendship means a lot. She didn’t get it because of her brother or Cooper, she got it by being herself. As the hoodoo power figure she goes through a lot and not all her decisions are good. There is a learning curve for her and most of her actions are for good. I hated seeing her and Cooper in the awkward stage of we both love each other but to protect you we are apart. He’s to sweet a guy but all works out in the end. the crow that keeps coming is creepy.
This is a nicely paced book that has all the elements to keep you interested and reading to know more. We have the love that is being sacrificed for protection. the danger that escalates to a peak and the resolution that gives us a good feeling and end. Not to much angst. the revenge concept and what can happen to you when you make your life about it. The history that helps to create the situation at hand and the happy ending that makes you want more to see what will happen next for the characters.
I will say this if you haven’ t read the previous books like I haven’t you may want to for there are areas that will be confusing if you don’t. The boo hag, the marriage line, how she came to Miss Delia, all the stuff about her Dad and Cooper’s dad is mentioned, Tanea these need the background from the other books to grasp completely. Other than this it is a fast paced, interesting book that keeps you on your toes and wondering what is next for Emma and her brother and Cooper.
The characters will evoke emotions in you. Cooper is protective and believes strongly in Emma. She keeps pushing him away but he believes in their love. He is always there for her, never a unkind word and tells her that together they are stronger. Her brother is a sweet goofball. That poor guy takes the brunt of the bad juju and has more dangerous and harmful things happen to him and it isn’t until the very end that we are told why. It isn’t even hinted at throughout the book. that was excellent on Ms. Nolan’s part because she sets up the smokescreen for us and Emma and we follow the crumbs.
Claude is evil to the core. You see want revenge can do to a person in time. Make them a shell of a being. Tanea and Sabina are the same. They let past things affect them. Sabina though does get a chance in the end. Tanea her great grandmother did keep hope but that was for no avail.
Miss Delia will keep a smile on your face. She has made mistakes and has paid a price. She is the perfect mentor for Emma because she lived what she preached. she is the sweet cut lady who has spunk and shows us that there is more to her than you know. Same goes for Emma’s friend Zora.
Emma is the loner. She doesn’t stand out at school and doesn’t really make friends. Except Zora and this friendship means a lot. She didn’t get it because of her brother or Cooper, she got it by being herself. As the hoodoo power figure she goes through a lot and not all her decisions are good. There is a learning curve for her and most of her actions are for good. I hated seeing her and Cooper in the awkward stage of we both love each other but to protect you we are apart. He’s to sweet a guy but all works out in the end. the crow that keeps coming is creepy.
This is a nicely paced book that has all the elements to keep you interested and reading to know more. We have the love that is being sacrificed for protection. the danger that escalates to a peak and the resolution that gives us a good feeling and end. Not to much angst. the revenge concept and what can happen to you when you make your life about it. The history that helps to create the situation at hand and the happy ending that makes you want more to see what will happen next for the characters.
October 8, 2015
I received an e-copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
As many of you know, Illusion is the third and final book in the Hoodoo Apprentice series. The series is one that comes with intrigue, danger, and of course that charm we all love. It follows the story of Emma and her companions Jack and Cooper, among others, as they find themselves immersed in Hoodoo.
I was new to this series when the publisher invited me to review it, but once I picked it up, it was a series I could not put down. The first two books were enthralling and I was relieved that I had the third and final book to follow them up with. And let me say, Illusion did not disappoint. Between the action and the dark elements that I loved so much, Nolan has found a way to end this series on just the right note.This installment starts off fast, so be prepared. But once it gets going, you almost can't believe you finished this series so fast.
I really like the Hoodoo approach Nolan took. It's completely different from most YA novels and was a refreshing read. However, the characters are much younger than I thought they would be. Normally, it bothers me to see such dark elements thrust upon such young protagonists, but Nolan wrote it well and I don't see a need to complain about that with this series on every note except the romance one. The characters just seem so young for there to be any level of actual love growing between Cooper and Emma. When I was that age, just going to the movies with someone was a big deal. However, Nolan did a good job of balancing that aspect of the novel so that it was satisfying for readers that were into it and manageable to read about for readers that weren't. And really, who could focus on the romance with everything going on in that story! And I say that as a good thing. There was so much action going on that it was near impossible to put the book down because I was afraid I was going to miss something. Emma has a lot of ends to tie up and saving to do.
All in all, Illusion was just wonderful. I wish I would have gotten more involved with the series when it came out some time ago, but I am so happy that I finally got to read it. This last installment is the perfect ending to a wonderful series!
As many of you know, Illusion is the third and final book in the Hoodoo Apprentice series. The series is one that comes with intrigue, danger, and of course that charm we all love. It follows the story of Emma and her companions Jack and Cooper, among others, as they find themselves immersed in Hoodoo.
I was new to this series when the publisher invited me to review it, but once I picked it up, it was a series I could not put down. The first two books were enthralling and I was relieved that I had the third and final book to follow them up with. And let me say, Illusion did not disappoint. Between the action and the dark elements that I loved so much, Nolan has found a way to end this series on just the right note.This installment starts off fast, so be prepared. But once it gets going, you almost can't believe you finished this series so fast.
I really like the Hoodoo approach Nolan took. It's completely different from most YA novels and was a refreshing read. However, the characters are much younger than I thought they would be. Normally, it bothers me to see such dark elements thrust upon such young protagonists, but Nolan wrote it well and I don't see a need to complain about that with this series on every note except the romance one. The characters just seem so young for there to be any level of actual love growing between Cooper and Emma. When I was that age, just going to the movies with someone was a big deal. However, Nolan did a good job of balancing that aspect of the novel so that it was satisfying for readers that were into it and manageable to read about for readers that weren't. And really, who could focus on the romance with everything going on in that story! And I say that as a good thing. There was so much action going on that it was near impossible to put the book down because I was afraid I was going to miss something. Emma has a lot of ends to tie up and saving to do.
All in all, Illusion was just wonderful. I wish I would have gotten more involved with the series when it came out some time ago, but I am so happy that I finally got to read it. This last installment is the perfect ending to a wonderful series!
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November 5, 2015There are so many reasons that I like Illusion by Lea Nolan. Great characters, good plot and interesting magic. Which is different than anything most magic related stories I’ve read because it’s Hoodoo, which yes is different than Voodoo but there is some of that in there as well.This has really been a great series.
The plot is always interesting and there are always things going on. There are different levels to each problem. We have Cooper and Emma’s feeling for eachother, which she is only battling because she’s trying to protect him. Emma’s brother Jack is doing all kinds of research using old ledgers from Cooper’s dad/boohag secret lair. We have the issues with Miss Delia and Claude set on making her pay for something that we are not hundred percent sure what that is. Of course Sabina is after Emma. Taneea is her own whirlwind problem. It sounds like all of this could be too much but it’s not because all interweaves together to make this blanket plot that is fast paced and action packed.
I love how descriptive the spells are. It’s not too much to overwhelm you but it’s enough to be really cool. The idea of using the different ingredients and cantations and it also explains what is happening when it’s cast. You get a little more depth with the magic.
I absolutely loved Zora. I liked how she was a good friend but you could tell she knew more then she was letting on. Which made me totally love her. I would have been too weak and shown my cards right away.
We get some more insight into Miss D’s past and the twins ancestry (the ledger research). Which is interesting to learn since even Emma get’s frustrated with all the riddles it feels like people talk in. Well you can always tell they are leaving things out.
The story has its casualties as much as it has it’s wins. I really liked how things came together at the end because everything in the series had been working toward it. One of my favorite magic related series and I think if you haven’t read it you should.
The plot is always interesting and there are always things going on. There are different levels to each problem. We have Cooper and Emma’s feeling for eachother, which she is only battling because she’s trying to protect him. Emma’s brother Jack is doing all kinds of research using old ledgers from Cooper’s dad/boohag secret lair. We have the issues with Miss Delia and Claude set on making her pay for something that we are not hundred percent sure what that is. Of course Sabina is after Emma. Taneea is her own whirlwind problem. It sounds like all of this could be too much but it’s not because all interweaves together to make this blanket plot that is fast paced and action packed.
I love how descriptive the spells are. It’s not too much to overwhelm you but it’s enough to be really cool. The idea of using the different ingredients and cantations and it also explains what is happening when it’s cast. You get a little more depth with the magic.
I absolutely loved Zora. I liked how she was a good friend but you could tell she knew more then she was letting on. Which made me totally love her. I would have been too weak and shown my cards right away.
We get some more insight into Miss D’s past and the twins ancestry (the ledger research). Which is interesting to learn since even Emma get’s frustrated with all the riddles it feels like people talk in. Well you can always tell they are leaving things out.
The story has its casualties as much as it has it’s wins. I really liked how things came together at the end because everything in the series had been working toward it. One of my favorite magic related series and I think if you haven’t read it you should.
October 5, 2015
Firstly I would like to kindly thank the lovely Lea Nolan for kindly providing me with a copy to read and review.
Illusion is the final instalment in The Hoodoo Apprentice trilogy, I loved the fact that Nolan kept the info flowing from the previous books to fill in any gaps that you make have had, this was a bonus as it seems like it's been FARRRRRRR too long since finishing and reviewing the second book in this series, saves me re-reading both of them again :)
Having taken on the responsibility of breaking the curse it's no wonder Emma feels alone. As the hoodoo power figure she is, Emma goes through a lot and not all her decisions are good. There is a learning curve for her and she most succeed otherwise she loses everything and everyone she loves.
The characters will certainly evoke emotions in you. Cooper is protective of Emma and believes strongly in her and her magic. She keeps pushing him away but he's having non of it as he truly believes in their love.
Can Emma resist the temptation to use black magic?
Can she protect her twin brother, her father and Cooper?
Can she win the chance to live and finally get her own HEA?
Lea Nolan does a wonderful job tying loose ends up in this series in a way that leaves you both satisfied and of course left wanting more. I love it when that happens in a series.
Illusion is the final instalment in The Hoodoo Apprentice trilogy, I loved the fact that Nolan kept the info flowing from the previous books to fill in any gaps that you make have had, this was a bonus as it seems like it's been FARRRRRRR too long since finishing and reviewing the second book in this series, saves me re-reading both of them again :)
Having taken on the responsibility of breaking the curse it's no wonder Emma feels alone. As the hoodoo power figure she is, Emma goes through a lot and not all her decisions are good. There is a learning curve for her and she most succeed otherwise she loses everything and everyone she loves.
"As it turns out, ignoring my feelings for Cooper Beaumont is a lot harder than it sounds. But if I've got any chance in saving him, I've got to keep trying. Even if it crushes me."
The characters will certainly evoke emotions in you. Cooper is protective of Emma and believes strongly in her and her magic. She keeps pushing him away but he's having non of it as he truly believes in their love.
Can Emma resist the temptation to use black magic?
Can she protect her twin brother, her father and Cooper?
Can she win the chance to live and finally get her own HEA?
Lea Nolan does a wonderful job tying loose ends up in this series in a way that leaves you both satisfied and of course left wanting more. I love it when that happens in a series.
December 21, 2015
Ok so i got this book from the publisher, my only concern is why did i hear about it just now when is the last book out, this trilogy is amazing. Love the cover but what i love the most is that the book it works as a stand alone also (if you do not mind not knowing every detail how they got so strong and everything).
The book has an amazing plot and is so easy to read. Emma how her friends call her is an amazing 'hoodoo girl' ( i would call her more like a witch but i have a felling the fans will kill me). I enjoy reading this book although it reminds me a lot of the Beautiful Creatures (Elena)the struggle to stay towards the light but the darkness is there too especially when Emma has to deal with Taneea all the time trying to make her life miserable with every 'curse' she 'casts' on her. However because this is the last book of course Emma chooses a side (darkness or light), hey is hard to decide when the evil spirit Sabina one of the most powerful 'castor' of magic/dark magic to be precises, wants to kill painfully everyone she loves, so she can suffer as much as Sabina did in loosing Maggie.
How i said this is an amazing book very easy to read (not like Beautiful Creature , that i am at 3rd book and deciding if i should stop or continue). If you are into adventure, magic and of course some romance/teen romance, this book is just for you. In conclusion i will say if you liked Beautiful Creature then this is the right book for you.
The book has an amazing plot and is so easy to read. Emma how her friends call her is an amazing 'hoodoo girl' ( i would call her more like a witch but i have a felling the fans will kill me). I enjoy reading this book although it reminds me a lot of the Beautiful Creatures (Elena)the struggle to stay towards the light but the darkness is there too especially when Emma has to deal with Taneea all the time trying to make her life miserable with every 'curse' she 'casts' on her. However because this is the last book of course Emma chooses a side (darkness or light), hey is hard to decide when the evil spirit Sabina one of the most powerful 'castor' of magic/dark magic to be precises, wants to kill painfully everyone she loves, so she can suffer as much as Sabina did in loosing Maggie.
How i said this is an amazing book very easy to read (not like Beautiful Creature , that i am at 3rd book and deciding if i should stop or continue). If you are into adventure, magic and of course some romance/teen romance, this book is just for you. In conclusion i will say if you liked Beautiful Creature then this is the right book for you.
October 8, 2015
This was a first read for me by Lea Nolan. I thought that I would be lost in the series after not having read the first two but decided to give this one a shot and I was not disappointed at all. I was able to catch up by how Lea went back and recapped some of the events in the previous books in the very beginning. So, you will not be lost if you start the series on this one.
Emma is a young lady who has recently discovered that she has the ability to use Hoodoo magic and has moved back home to be able to study her newfound abilities even more. Emma is starting a new school and has even left her boyfriend behind because she is afraid that being connected with the Hoodoo might effect anyone who is associated with her. Emma is battling a trio of enemies.
Emma begins to wonder if there is a bigger force behind them or if they are just really good at what they do? The action, suspense and fast-paced story line will keep your attention no matter your age. Can Emma save herself and everyone associated with her all while being a young teenager just learning how to use her magic? You must read this one to find out!! I am so surprised by this story that it makes me want to go back and read the first two. Thanks Lea Nolan for a great YA read and I can't wait to see what else you have in store for us readers in the future!!
Emma is a young lady who has recently discovered that she has the ability to use Hoodoo magic and has moved back home to be able to study her newfound abilities even more. Emma is starting a new school and has even left her boyfriend behind because she is afraid that being connected with the Hoodoo might effect anyone who is associated with her. Emma is battling a trio of enemies.
Emma begins to wonder if there is a bigger force behind them or if they are just really good at what they do? The action, suspense and fast-paced story line will keep your attention no matter your age. Can Emma save herself and everyone associated with her all while being a young teenager just learning how to use her magic? You must read this one to find out!! I am so surprised by this story that it makes me want to go back and read the first two. Thanks Lea Nolan for a great YA read and I can't wait to see what else you have in store for us readers in the future!!
October 14, 2015
Book: Illusion
Author: Lea Nolan
Reviewer: Dawn H
***WARNING I RECEIVED THIS BOOK IN RETURN FOR MY HONEST OPINION***
This is a story of a young Hoodoo apprentice who is prophesized to end the curse that has plagued her family for centuries. Emmaline Guthrie's is the only surviving daughter of her ancestors because for some reason only the males have survived. While being hunted by a psychotic deranged teenager, a crazed lunatic and her arch-nemesis Emmaline has to choose between hatred or love and compassion to beat her enemies who have caused her emotional hurt by trying to murder her father, twin brother, and the love of her life which she had to pretend not to love anymore to save him and herself. This story is different from the others that I have read and sometimes that is a good thing. Lea Nolan has created a perfect story that is so amazing that it pulls the reader in from the very beginning while also keeping you wanting to know more about what happens..
Author: Lea Nolan
Reviewer: Dawn H
***WARNING I RECEIVED THIS BOOK IN RETURN FOR MY HONEST OPINION***
This is a story of a young Hoodoo apprentice who is prophesized to end the curse that has plagued her family for centuries. Emmaline Guthrie's is the only surviving daughter of her ancestors because for some reason only the males have survived. While being hunted by a psychotic deranged teenager, a crazed lunatic and her arch-nemesis Emmaline has to choose between hatred or love and compassion to beat her enemies who have caused her emotional hurt by trying to murder her father, twin brother, and the love of her life which she had to pretend not to love anymore to save him and herself. This story is different from the others that I have read and sometimes that is a good thing. Lea Nolan has created a perfect story that is so amazing that it pulls the reader in from the very beginning while also keeping you wanting to know more about what happens..
April 8, 2016
I received a free copy of this book by the book's publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
When I requested Illusion, I did not realise that it was part of a series so I'm jumping in at the end here. Despite this, I still really enjoyed it! Nolan catches you up to speed with what is happening in the story quite quickly I am relieved to say. I quite fancy reading the previous parts of the series after reading this!
This book is definitely action packed fun. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and all of Nolan's characters, especially Emma. The writing is brilliant and enthralling which makes the story a real page turner. I love stories with magic and fantasy so this was right up my street.
Really enjoyable book though I'd recommend reading the previous novels first! Thank you so much for letting me read this!
When I requested Illusion, I did not realise that it was part of a series so I'm jumping in at the end here. Despite this, I still really enjoyed it! Nolan catches you up to speed with what is happening in the story quite quickly I am relieved to say. I quite fancy reading the previous parts of the series after reading this!
This book is definitely action packed fun. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and all of Nolan's characters, especially Emma. The writing is brilliant and enthralling which makes the story a real page turner. I love stories with magic and fantasy so this was right up my street.
Really enjoyable book though I'd recommend reading the previous novels first! Thank you so much for letting me read this!
April 23, 2016
Full reviews posted at Book Lovin' Mamas
Although, I'm sad that the trilogy has ended, I'm happy to know Emma and her family finally have a HEA. I can't say it enough how much I enjoyed this trilogy and I look forward to buying the books with their new covers soon to place in my book case. This is one trilogy I plan on passing down to my girls, once they are old enough to read it. I know my oldest daughter will love the trilogy.
If you haven't read the trilogy yet, I highly recommend you do. Now, you can buy all 3 books and read them all in once without waiting. :)
I give this book 5 stars and highly recommend it Young Adult Paranormal readers out there.
Although, I'm sad that the trilogy has ended, I'm happy to know Emma and her family finally have a HEA. I can't say it enough how much I enjoyed this trilogy and I look forward to buying the books with their new covers soon to place in my book case. This is one trilogy I plan on passing down to my girls, once they are old enough to read it. I know my oldest daughter will love the trilogy.
If you haven't read the trilogy yet, I highly recommend you do. Now, you can buy all 3 books and read them all in once without waiting. :)
I give this book 5 stars and highly recommend it Young Adult Paranormal readers out there.
October 7, 2015
I admit not having read the two previous books in this series but I can see that this could very well be a stand alone. I also admire our author for being able to deliver a brilliant and clear story of love and family. It is a very well thought of and artistically written story of magic and fantasy.
timing and characters are concise and settings couldn't get any better. When it comes to her writing style, I only have praises for her. Highly advisable to teens and not so teens who love magical and action stories.
You can visit my blog to join the giveaway. Just follow the link. Good luck!
http://goodnightcarolina.blogspot.com...
timing and characters are concise and settings couldn't get any better. When it comes to her writing style, I only have praises for her. Highly advisable to teens and not so teens who love magical and action stories.
You can visit my blog to join the giveaway. Just follow the link. Good luck!
http://goodnightcarolina.blogspot.com...
October 30, 2015
This is the third book of a trilogy, but each book in the series may be read as a stand-alone.
Each of these books are so different than any other that I have read. Ms. Nolan concluded this series well, although I could see her branching out with a few of the characters.. I was lost in the story, it kept me interested throughout, and with the humor thrown in, very entertaining!! I will be watching for more from this author.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Each of these books are so different than any other that I have read. Ms. Nolan concluded this series well, although I could see her branching out with a few of the characters.. I was lost in the story, it kept me interested throughout, and with the humor thrown in, very entertaining!! I will be watching for more from this author.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 15, 2015
I think this might just be the best series ending book ever. Ms. Nolan wrapped things up wonderfully with Emma, Jack, and Cooper. And yet, it was not without heartache and a lot of hard work to get there. No perfectly wrapped bows here. Which is what made it even better. I will very much look forward to re-reading this series again in the future.
Disclosure- I received an ARC for honest review.
Disclosure- I received an ARC for honest review.
October 30, 2015
This is the third book of a trilogy, but each book in the series may be read as a stand-alone.
Each of these books are so different than any other that I have read. Ms. Nolan concluded this series well, although I could see her branching out with a few of the characters.. I was lost in the story, it kept me interested throughout, and with the humor thrown in, very entertaining!! I will be watching for more from this author.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Each of these books are so different than any other that I have read. Ms. Nolan concluded this series well, although I could see her branching out with a few of the characters.. I was lost in the story, it kept me interested throughout, and with the humor thrown in, very entertaining!! I will be watching for more from this author.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 6, 2015
This is a wonderful YA read. Perfect for a teen or a person who want the paranormal but not the sex.
I was kind of at a loss because I hadn't read the first book but I caught on very quick. I love all things witchcraft related and hoodoo is a branch of witchcraft.
Dark forces are at play and Jack, Cooper and Emma must fight to survive.
Just a wonderful paranormal adventure. Very action packed. Full of teen angst. Just GREAT!
I was kind of at a loss because I hadn't read the first book but I caught on very quick. I love all things witchcraft related and hoodoo is a branch of witchcraft.
Dark forces are at play and Jack, Cooper and Emma must fight to survive.
Just a wonderful paranormal adventure. Very action packed. Full of teen angst. Just GREAT!
February 23, 2016
I think I liked this book best out of the series. 3.5 Stars. I really enjoyed the ending. I did forget that Emma is only 14 (almost 15). She seemed (and her brother) mature for her age, but then I again I remember being more mature than most around that age. Did I mention I liked the ending? All sorts of interesting and exciting things happen in this book.
I would recommend this series to a friend.
I would recommend this series to a friend.
January 9, 2016
Such a terrific end to the series! Lots of scary evil that grossed me out just enough. A tenacious heroine who you can't stop rooting for, even when she makes mistakes. A dreamy guy that stands by her no matter how hard she tries to shake him. Tons of fun spell stuff, right alongside sweet romance. I loved it!
November 9, 2015
very satisfying end to the trilogy! each book gets darker and scarier but the payoff is SO good!
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