Illusionary

Hollow Crown #2

by Zoraida Córdova

Reeling from betrayal at the hands of the Whispers, Renata Convida is a girl on the run. With few options and fewer allies, she's reluctantly joined forces with none other than Prince Castian, her most infuriating and intriguing enemy. They're united by lofty goals: find the fabled Knife of Memory, kill the ruthless King Fernando, and bring peace to the nation. Together, Ren and Castian have a chance to save everything, if only they can set aside their complex and intense feelings for each other.

With the king's forces on their heels at every turn, their quest across Puerto Leones and beyond leaves little room for mistakes. But the greatest danger is within Ren. The Gray, her fortress of stolen memories, has begun to crumble, threatening her grip on reality. She'll have to control her magics--and her mind--to unlock her power and protect the Moria people once and for all.

For years, she was wielded as weapon. Now it's her time to fight back.

Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult, Romance, Young Adult Fantasy, Fiction, Enemies To Lovers, Magic

368 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 11, 2021

About the author

Zoraida Córdova is the author of many fantasy novels for kids and teens, including the award-winning Brooklyn Brujas series, Incendiary, and Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge: A Crash of Fate. Her short fiction has appeared in the New York Times bestselling anthology Star Wars: From a Certain Point of View, Star Wars The Clone Wars: Stories of Light and Dark, Come on In: 15 Stories About Immigration and Finding Home, and Toil & Trouble: 15 Tales of Women and Witchcraft. She is the co-editor of the bestselling anthology Vampires Never Get Old. Her debut middle grade novel is The Way to Rio Luna. She is the co-host of the podcast Deadline City with Dhonielle Clayton. Zoraida was born in Ecuador and raised in Queens, New York. When she isn’t working on her next novel, she’s planning a new adventure.

NOTE: Direct messages on this account may not be seen. Send her an email at zoraidabooks@gmail.com

Reviews

[Zoraida · Rating 5 out of 5]

Edit 9/2/20

Cover/title reveal moved to Sept 8th! Sorry friends! We want to make sure the preorder links are live.

*****

Edit: 8/28/20

I've heard from a little publishing bird that there may be a cover dropping on Sept 4 ;)

*****

Hi! If you follow me on here you know I keep track of some updates in these reviews. Right now, I just want to say that I have finished the book. It was a JOURNEY. And I love the characters I've created and Renata's growth and power. So...UPDATES.

- HOLLOW CROWN #2 is still (to my knowledge) slated to come out early summer 2021.
- it is HIGH KEY romantic. Much action. Much soulful glances.
- the cover is coming soon. I have seen it. I adore it. I hope you do too.

More soon...

~ Zoraida

[Anissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

The perfect conclusion!

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

If Incendiary was a journey of discovery for Renata Convida, then Illusionary is where she truly finds herself. So much remains hidden from her, deep within the Gray. But things have changed. Memories are no longer hers to take. Instead, they are breaking out of their prison in her mind, revealing a secret past that has the power to change the future of Puerto Leones. All she has to do is team up with an enemy, take a journey into the unknown, and overturn the rule of a tyrant…

As we know from the first book, Ren is more than enough for the task. Her bravery in confronting her trauma, her willingness to fight for others, her determination to make things better for the people of Puerto Leones … all of this makes her a character that we root for in every moment. The complexity of her past, her role as both villain and saviour, is never forgotten, but underlies every one of her relationships. This is especially evident in her interactions with Prince Castian, who himself has a similarly dark history. Their backstory, revealed in tantalising snippets, only made their relationship all the more appealing. The romantic aspect of the story (promised but not delivered by the Dez/Ren match in the first book) is perfectly developed here, with delicious tension built between Ren and Cas during their journey. Some of the moments are so freaking charged that I was almost burned. This was the pairing I wanted (who can resist a bad prince?) and it delivered (and then some).

The structure was much more effectively utilised in this book; quieter, more personal sections were interspersed with high-action thrills, rather than acting as a long, slow build to an explosive finale. That’s not to say there wasn’t an amazing ending, just that it was one of many fantastic moments. The epilogue perhaps edged a little too far into the soppy, but this is a tale you feel in your heart, and it’s easy to forgive the extra dash of emotion when the story has already given you everything you wanted.

ARC via Netgalley

[Bethany (Beautifully Bookish Bethany) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Romance, action, self-discovery, found family, twists and turns....Illusionary has it all in spades and is a really strong conclusion to the duology.

Picking up right where Incendiary left off, we follow Renata on the run with a prince, learning about her own past and the past of the kingdom, facing difficult decisions and betrayal, and beginning a passionate romance along the way. Zoraida Cordova has really consistent quality in her writing and this is no exception. It was a fun time and I really loved the way the book ended. No spoilers, but it wasn't what I expected and was lovely!

We also get more explanation of the world and magic system in this one, which is cool. Renata has memory magic, but learns new things about how her magic actually works and what she is capable of. Also, way to go being sex positive in a way that promotes making safe decisions and also recognizes some people (characters) might also want to delay that part of their lives. This is a series that I would have adored as a teenager and still had a really good time with. Do note that there is some graphic violence and death. I received a copy of this book for review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Rebecca Roanhorse · Rating 5 out of 5]

This YA Fantasy picks up where the series opener INCENDIARY left off and boosts the adventure and romance in equal parts. Corrupt kings, desperate rebels, lost goddesses, magical weapons and dark injustices fill the pages of this fast-paced conclusion to the duology. Some nice twists and turns right to the end. An enjoyable read.

[Fanna]

September 08, 2020: THAT COVER OMG! I MEAN, it's just tooooo perfecttttttt-

April 11, 2020: Incendiary was average for me but Castian and Nuria are above average and they need my love so I'm definitely looking forward to the sequel for them and them ONLY.

[Maria Elena | pagesofmaria · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I could put my feelings in a jar every time I finish a book, Illusionary’s would be glowing.

This book was character development at its finest. Renata grows so much since the events of Incendiary, both emotionally and in regards to her power, and I loved seeing that progress. Not that I didn’t like her in the first book, but it’s always beautiful to see a character become a better version of themselves. I can say without a shadow of a doubt that she’s one of my new favorite YA heroines. (The fact that she has my brother’s name is an added bonus.) I also adored seeing more of Castian, who is a character I was already in love with from Incendiary despite we don’t see much of him. I say this all the time, but Zoraida Córdova is the only author who managed to make me fall in love with a character and a ship by only getting glimpses of him and by throwing clues at his real motives. I always thought that there was more to the Matahermano than what everyone knew and this sequel confirmed it. If the love was strong before, it’s made of adamantium steel now.

I do think I preferred the castle’s setting in Incendiary a little bit more than the journey we got in Illusionary, but I loved everything else so much more, which is saying something. One of my favorite aspects of the story was the characters. Renata, Castian and Leo are particularly close to my heart. I’m so happy that the author found a way to have Leo be an integral part of the plot in this book as well because I love him. Lady Nuria, who was one of my favorites from book one, reconfirms her badass queen status even though we see her less. And there’s also Dez. I didn’t much care for in the first book—not that he didn’t seem like a good character, but he didn’t click with me as Castian did—but I reevaluated him here. I’m weak for bromance, so when I saw Dez and Castian interacting…I was lost. The other aspect I loved of this book is, of course, the romance, which was superb. Sweet, epic, and hawt to the point that I wished this was a New Adult/Adult book so we could have more!

Thank you to the publisher for sending me an eARC through NetGalley. I feel so incredibly honored and happy to have been able to read one of my most anticipated sequels early, and I’m glad that this book surpassed my every expectation. I can officially confirm that the Hollow Crown duology is one of my favorite of all time. I’m hopeful that the epilogue served not only as a closure to the duology, but also as a hopeful door to a possible spin off series. I wouldn’t mind seeing that at all.

[Amy Burt · Rating 2 out of 5]

You know when a book disappoints you so much you actually feel pretty angry about it? After finishing this book, I’ll admit I’m at that point right now. I really enjoyed Incendiary, it wasn’t anything ground breaking necessarily but it was enjoyable and I got through it pretty quickly. Illusionary, however, the sequel in this duology felt a lot harder work to get through.

The biggest thing that irritated me in this book was the romance. In book one Ren is in love with Dez to the point of willingly putting her life in danger getting herself caught to avenge him. He tells her he loves her, she regrets never telling him back how much she loved him, they make love etc. Then plot twist, Prince Castian, the monstrous prince who killed Dez, didn’t actually kill Dez, he only pretends to be a monster, he only let Ren mourn her love that he created the illusion of murdering for her to see, he’s actually the good guy! And Dez, the good guy, his character is just switched in a way that makes no sense, he flees, he lets Ren think he is dead and evades her and even turns on her. It makes no sense. But it’s totally fine because as much as Ren loves Dez, her life is all about Dez, she grew up being protected and loved by Dez, it’s because she knew Castian as a child, A CHILD, she realises she has always loved him and stops loving Dez like it’s been switched off, just as her repulsion and hate for Castian switches off. It feels incredibly immature romance. Similarly at the start of this book, Castian and Ren work together to find Dez, Castian asks questions about his brother (because in the most obvious twist of all, Castian and Dez are brothers), he wants to know about this brother he thought he lost, he longs for his brother and Ren loves Dez too much to talk about him, neither stop and either consider Dez or how them getting together would effect any future relationship with Dez. Essentially Castian chooses Ren over his brother (knowing how close they were because she had a pregnancy scare) and doesn’t once question the propriety of that, or Ren flirting and ultimately sleeping with the brother of her love who got messed up after finding out he had a brother and his life was a lie. I’m sorry, maybe Vampire Diaries normalises sleeping with both brothers but it’s weird.

But there’s more! Castian was engaged to Nuria, they loved each other to the extent she begged Ren to remove one of her most intimate memories of him to help her, and he just ditches it because he’s such a brooding hero. There is no apology or recognition between the 2 characters when they’re together on the page, in fact despite Nuria risking her safety to assist Castian throughout the story, there isn’t one interaction I can recall where he even acknowledges her. But it’s fine because how do you solve a love triangle like Dez, Ren and Castian? Just lump Dez and Nuria together at the end *eye roll*. I’m sorry but it feels underdeveloped, by the end of the book you’ve got Ren and Castian together, but she’s slept with his brother Dez too. And Nuria with Dez, but she’s also slept with Castian. Just putting the leftover characters together as some happy ending just annoyed me, as did the dialogue where Dez goes from “how will I get over losing you” to ‘oh well, there’s a spare woman here, I’ll love her now’ and pretty instantly forgives his brother and former love for getting it on. This emotional maturity is from the character previously written to panic so much when he found out he had a brother and that he was a Prince that he fled everything?? Oh then we flip again and he just becomes King and takes on that responsibility easily enough. Sounds like he easily could’ve handled the stuff he was written to bail on too, but that would've got in the way of the need for Ren to get with Castian. It just reads inconsistent and written towards getting from A to B. Similarly, multiple members of the Whispers betray Ren and again it’s just glided over and moved past. It’s infuriating.

While there is no emotional development when it comes to relationships in the book, I did enjoy the emotional progression of Ren herself in this book. She starts off with such self loathing, being raised to be a weapon, a prop to be disposed of, and ending up loving herself. I wish that had been the love story in this book, self love, for both Ren and Castian, instead of 2 very broken, hurting people propping each other up. I actually preferred the ending when it looked like she boarded the pirate ship alone, doing something FOR HER but nope, Castian has to chase after her.

Relationships aside, this isn’t a bad book and at times I really did enjoy it, I just detest love triangles and flip flopping in character personalities, it’s a bit of an overused YA cliche. Also I have read too many books now where the plot is all about the protagonist having to make a sacrifice and it’s discussed for chapters, there’s an end goal which will save the world but the cost is her life, she hides it from him as he talks of their future etc. And she dies, a higher being or whatever speaks to her and is all ‘I know this is literally how it works but for the happy ending, I’m going to change the rules just for you and say it’s not your time yet’ as her love cradles her body and low and behold she returns. I can name several like this but I’ll be spoiling a lot of books if I mention them, i think it’s just been done too much now that you know it’s a bluff! I’m not saying I wanted the characters to suffer but it was just wrapped up too neatly and sweetly.

I’m sorry that sounds so bitter, it just didn’t do it for me and I could see such potential which is why I’m annoyed. Nuria was my favourite character and she’s barely used, as is Sayida and Argi, 3 women that would have totally changed how I felt the book had they been given more instead of the romance that instead took over this book.

[Hedieh Danesh Bayan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished reading Incendiary and it was incredible. I really hope to read more about the relationship between Prince Castian and Renata in the second book.

[Anthony]

Ready for some Ren and Cas feels.

[Aleksandra (acedimski) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Actual rating: 4.5 stars

Did Illusionary deliver everything I hoped for after Incendiary put me through a rollercoaster of feelings? Yes, yes it did.

After I finished Incendiary last year, I couldn't wait to finally hold the sequel in my hands. The court intrigue, the rebells, the magic system, the worldbuilding, the characters - I loved it all. It may have taken me longer to finally read this book, but it doesn't change the fact that this duology will stay close to my heart. I adored this book!

In contrast to the court setting of the first book, we find ourselves on an adventurous journey in the sequel. While I did enjoy the various places this book takes place, I do have to say that the plot didn't convince me as much as it did in the previous installement. The intrigues at court just put a different atmosphere to the story opposed to the long journey we witness in this one. Still, I found myself adoring every single page of this book, and this was mainly because of the characters.

Not only do we see characters such as Leo, Lady Nuria, and Dez again, but we meet new ones that have found their place in my heart. And as much as I loved meeting all these characters again or for the very first time (especially Leo who has a very special place in my heart), the focus is entirely to be put on Ren and Prince Castian.

Ren, who was already one of my favorite heroines in the first books, did good to defend that title. Her character development was beautifully executed in this books in terms of finally learning who she really is, as well as learning to control her power. I had a lot of fun following her, seeing how she opens up her heart, fighting for what is right, and putting herself at risk for the ones she loves as well as the people that can't defend themselves. Castian, who managed to steal my heart with very few scenes and just glimpses at his personality, had me fall in love with him already in the first book. Those feelings just got stronger and stronger with each passing page in Illusionary. While I was sure he wasn't the villanious and murderious prince he wants people to believe him to be, it was incredible to see his true face... and swoon.

Both, Ren and Cas, were my favorite part of this book. Of this series. Everything about their relationship is just beautiful, and let me tell you that my heart is aching in all the best ways possible for them. They both have been through a lot, and shared a bond from the beginning that made it hard not to believe they will find their way back to each other. Let me tell you, I had high hopes, and those were all met. Their banter, the tension, their bond... *chef's kiss*.

Overall, this sequel delivers what we needed after what fantastic book Incendiary was. We get character development, friendship, redemption, a beautiful romance that left me aching for more. Despite the fact that the plot wasn't able to convince me as much as it did in the first installement, I had a great time coming back to this world, and following these characters on their journey - phyically and emotionally.

[Richel (letsreadshallwe) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Update | August 30, 2021

5 Stars

Even better the second time around! Although rereading Illusionary made me realize that I still haven’t really forgiven Dez and Margo😆

Will forever recommend this duology to everyone♥️



Update | May 8, 2021

4 Stars

“I don’t care if we’re in the middle of the sea or on one of the thousand isles of Luzou. Hate me, love me, have me. Wherever you are, that’s my kingdom, Nati, and you are my queen."

Illusionary picks up from where Incendiary left off, remember that cliffhanger?

Ever since I read Incendiary, I have been telling everyone that this duology deserves more hype! If Incendiary was a journey of discovery, then Illusionary was about growth and adventure. Renata's struggles with her identity and her power was very much apparent from the first book and was continued in Illusionary. Although her development came a little late in the book which made me worried in the beginning.

When the main character is forced to partner with the villain of the story, you just know that tension will be brewing and dear, there’s some real tension. Illusionary gave us more snippets of Renata’s past which provided answers and confirmation to some questions formulated from reading the first book. I’ve always loved Renata, Castian and Leo but this is where I fell head over heels in love with Castian, I’ve always known there’s something more to him than just being the Matahermano. And as for Leo, we get to see more of him in Illusionary which I consider one of the best gifts Zoraida Cordova have given us. I also loved the introduction of the new characters. And, if there are characters that I loved, there are also characters that I hated. And when I say hated, I mean really hated. You know those characters who just don’t learn? They made my blood boil!

As much as I love reading about the developing feelings between the main characters, I am glad that Illusionary didn’t focus on just the romance and still had the plot as the main focus. Other than revenge, quest and self discovery, one of the indirect subjects of Illusionary was also about dealing with mental health which I appreciate. The epilogue was cheesy but worked well as a balm for my heart.

Illusionary was a thrilling and perfect conclusion to the Hollow Crown duology! I was a little nervous of the mild love triangle that wasn’t really a love triangle but overall loved it and is now one of my favorite duologies!

Some of my favorite tropes in Illusionary:
- Fake marriage
- There’s only one bed trope
- Friends to enemies to lovers
- Slow burn
- Chosen one

Thank you so much to Hachette Book Group Canada and Netgalley for providing me an E-ARC to review!



April 21, 2021

Proper review to follow. I’m too invested in this story!

[areesha]

9/25/20: GEE IM SO SO SO SO SO SO SO SO SO SO SO SO SO EXCITED FOR THIS SEQUEL AND IM SO READY TO EXPLORE CASTIANS AND RENS RELATIONSHIP AND EVERYTHING THATS COMING UP COULD 2021 COME ANY SOONER PLEASE???

5/11/21: so i finally got my hands on this book and i am so ready you have no idea

5/16/21: everything was so off with this book. i don't know why, because i was so excited for it after i finished reading incendiary and then more so when i finally got it, and believe me, i tried, but there were things that irked me a lot. for one, i felt like cassian's character was reduced. where was the ruthless dude we'd come to know in the first book? how did he suddenly become so soft? it made me feel like i'd missed so many crucial details that weren't even given. secondly, this was not enemies-to-lovers. cassian and ren had hidden feelings for each other since the first chapter, and i've read enough enemies-to-lovers to know that this trope was badly used here. even the writing style felt different. it was hard to keep up with it. so it was only natural for me to stop reading it, which is so disappointing.

[⊹ Gabriela | Asternyx ⊹ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I feel like I spent half of the book laughing and the other half crying.

[Chiara | wordsbychiara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Actual rating: 4.5/5 stars

To say ILLUSIONARY was one of my most anticipated sequels of 2021 is an understatement, so I’m super happy I was able to get my hands on an e-arc of this wonderful book! I read Incendiary last year for the #booktalkwithwifey read-along and fell in love. It has so many of the elements I love: royals, rebels, court intrigue and magic all wrapped in one. But what ruled over all else was Prince Castian. This villainous prince who somehow dominated the narrative even with little page time, whose charisma and mystery haunted every word. Needless to say, I fell absolutely in love with him and the twists Zoraida Cordova added to his character. The enemies to lovers potential was thick in the air (especially because it’s far more complex than a simple enemies to lovers) and I craved it!

Illusionary delivered. Oh boy if it did.

I admit that plot wise I preferred the first book. The court intrigue of Incendiary did it for me a little more than the runaway adventure story we got in Illusionary and some aspects—especially the ending—could have been more fleshed out. But you know me, I’m a character driven reader at heart, and when the characters get me, there’s little than can be done to spare my soul. Illusionary was very much a character driven book and the development of characters and relationships overrode the plot.

Castian and Renata were definitely my favorite part. These two met my every expectation and their banter and deepening relationship was worth all the wait and anticipation from the first book! However, I also appreciated the friendships forged and I was especially pleased that Leo, who was one of my favorites in Incendiary was such a big part of this story! Yay for found families, you guys! I’m so happy.

Now do you know what I want? A collection of short stories on happy royals and world travels. If you know, you know.

[Renata · Rating 5 out of 5]

Please you must read this duology it's so good!!

Renata and Castian they both share the storyline where they were the villains, the spies, the good ones, enemies, friends...just?? The characters story was so complex but everything was just so well done! I loved how in this second part the plot wasn't around the love story of the characters, like I can say that was so smooth and it really talked about everything. Leo and Nuria are the other characters that I absolutely adore like they're literally the best friends you'd love to have by your side.

This deserves more hype and if you have the chance for an amazing and very well developed fantasy world with a HUGE AND BEAUTIFUL character development and almost all the tropes you're obsessed with, this is definitely the best book!

[Jenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Thank you Zoraida Córdova and Little, Brown and Company for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

TW: violence, death, semi-graphic murder scenes

Rep: Medieval LGBTQ+ (side characters), racial diversity, Spanish-language usage

So I enjoyed Incendiary, but Illusionary solidified this duology as a new comfort and something I will be rereading for years to come. In the first book in the Hollow Crown duology we are introduced to our struggling protagonist Renata. Initially, I found it difficult to connect with and understand Renata, however my response to her was a mirror to how she felt about herself. Her progression into self-discovery and ultimately, acceptance, is what propelled this duology ahead for me. I found her journey to be both refreshing and unique, as it was a character exploration and arc that was cultivated so diligently and intentionally.

Renata’s development as a character coupled with the sweet romance was a soothing balm for my heart. This series is friends-enemies-lovers and this is definitely a trope I have not read a lot of, but consider myself to be in agreement with. As much as I am a lover of smut (not in YA novels of course, I am an adult), sometimes it is the soft, quiet romances that really steal my heart. As a reader I love getting to witness a relationship being nurtured, when you can see characters fighting against what they want and what they believe they need. This duology is littered with great characters and Castian is one of them. You come to understand him, his journey, and the accomplishments and mistakes he made along the way. Leo is still such a light and a joy, despite all the pain and suffering he has gone through. We all need a Leo in our lives.

Overall, we obtain greater insight into the Moria people and their history. As a personal request, I now desperately want a prequel novella featuring the King and the three other pertinent people on that ‘voyage’. We also get the answers to the questions we had from the ending of Incendiary. As a personal pet peeve, which I have decided to refer to as “convenient couples” there was a pairing that felt a little too “easy” for me, but it did make sense plot wise, so I shall mildly gripe about it here. Also, no, that did not affect my rating. I just feel like it’s worth mentioning in case there are any like-minded individuals who relate to my sentiment.

did what it needed to do, it provided closure, while also leaving a few things open for interpretation, or it at least will let you ponder about the future. It also pushes this idea that we are never too old to adapt, to change the way we think or what we support. It also shows the consequences of our actions and how they can greatly affect the past, present, and the future. I am really curious now that I know how everything pans out how I’ll feel rereading the series. To me that’s a testament of a good story, when you can go back repeatedly and garner new information and insights and make deeper connections. I know that I reread Renata and Castian’s first in-person interaction from Incendiary after I finished this one and I would definitely recommend doing that. Some of the inklings I had made sense and the scene overall feels more meaningful. I love when authors can artfully connect their timelines and character motivations in a manner that is both intentional and helps to build character connections, gives us crumbles of foreshadowing, and overall enhances the reading experience.

Whether you simply liked, loved, or were on the fence about Incendiary I wholly recommend giving Illusionary a read!

P.S. Update on the character in Incendiary I wanted to kick in the shin, yes I believe they should still be kicked but they were not very present, in this book.

[Ashley Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the conclusion to this duology so much more than book one. I still didn't get all of the answers I wanted, seriously, is the magic system all genetic? and if so how come one brother can effect feelings and the other create illusions?

Regardless, I was very attached to the characters by the time I got halfway through this installment and by the end I was all in. Very creative world, and I really enjoyed my time in it.

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh that was so lovely!! I really enjoyed the classic adventure-style YA vibe that Zoraida cultivated with this and the first book.

Full review to follow!

[julia ☆ [owls reads] · Rating 5 out of 5]

#1 Incendiary: ★★★★★ | 5 stars

*

5 stars!

*

And she would never let go.

Me @ Zoraida Córdova: pls write books forever thank u

I was a bit nervous starting Illusionary since I loved the first book so so so much and didn't want to be disappointed?? But Córdova once again captured my heart and imagination and I loved every single thing about this installment.

The writing style was wonderful! That was just something about it that hooked me right from the beginning again and, with the way Córdova developed the story, I had such a feeling of deep satisfaction while reading this that I'm writing this review with a smile on my face. The narrative and the plot itself were so well written and I loved how the pace held steady and the tension in every chapter.

Renata learned a great deal more about herself and how powers here and I loved how that came about. There was so much fear and suffering in her life and to read about her finally feeling grounded and sure of her purpose and what she had to do, despite the bumps along the way, was such great story-telling.

I also really enjoyed the romance! I wasn't expecting to like it so much, but the way in which Córdova developed that point and how it progressed was soooooo good. It wasn't something I expected back in Incendiary which tbqh only made me appreciate it more.

The ending was fantastic! I got nervous during a few pages because I was convinced everything was going to go wrong, but it didn't! Everything was wrapped up in the best of ways and I really loved the little glimpses of the future we got in the epilogue. A+ 10/10 duology, recommended to all who enjoy unique Fantasy novels.

*

Series: #2 in the Hollow Crown duology.
POV: Told from Renata's POV.
Content Warnings: Torture.
Instalove: No.
Love Triangle: Not really.
Cliffhanger: No.
HEA: Yes!

[Alaina · Rating 4 out of 5]

After devouring the previous book, I'll admit that I was super excited to dive into Illusionary. Like, really excited. I wanted so many things to happen throughout this that it hurt a smidge to have high expectations before reading it. It was still a pretty good sequel though.

Now I'll admit that the beginning was a bit slow for me. I was happy that it picked up right where the first book ended because it didn't confuse me or anything. Which, yes, is a huge plus for me. Renata and Castian are still running and hiding from the King and Whispers. So much betrayal happened in the first book that I honestly wasn't going to be surprised if we got even more in this one. Which, yes, we did get a ton of betrayal and a return of the dickwad.

Speaking of him, I was not a fan of him being a huge dick. It annoyed and frustrated me but then again.. he did do a shitty thing in the previous book so I wasn't completely surprised with him being a manipulative asshole either. What I did enjoy was watching Renata and Castian get closer to one another. It's really cute when people pretend to be together and act like they aren't going to catch feelings or anything.

Real adorable guys but you will ALWAYS catch feelings. Idiots... who I love.

Another thing I liked was Renata coming into her own in a way. She was learning more about her past which utterly confused me. Mostly because I wanted to know how she couldn't fully remember things. So seeing things click into place for her just put a smile on my face. Also seeing her being more in control of her powers was nice as well.

In the end, all I'm going to say is always be suspicious. Of every single person or thing. Seriously, it will save you so much time because I never know who I can or can't trust. Ever. I'm so happy that I got to dive into this and I can't wait for the next book that Zoraida writes.

[Sara Oliveira · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 ⭐️

TW/CW: violence, death, torture, murder,

Now this one, I liked this second book A LOT more than I did the first one. I felt like this book had a much more coherent line of action, that the characters decisions were understandable even when I didn't agree with them, and that the overall story and writing was a so much better. I'm very glad to have kept going in the series and have this conclude on a high-note.

I really liked the romance element that was added in this second book, and think the two characters who end up together are a much better fit - that being said I still think a couple of plot decisions felt off with the characters as we know them, but these mostly happen right at the end so I wasn't too annoyed. I liked that this book actually let me understand the characters better, that we slowed down the action (without losing it) and everything felt more thought out and complete than what I felt from the first book.

Overall a fun series, that is easy and quick to read. I really like duologies over trilogies so I'm always looking out for new ones to read!

[Natasha Leighton · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Once I was a rebel, one of the Whispers. Now I am just a traitor.”

In this thrilling conclusion to the Hollow Crown duology, Our favourite Robári embarks on a dangerous voyage, teaming up with one of her greatest enemies to find the mythical knife of memory.They plan to bring justice to the kingdom and end the reign of tyranny,once and for all.

A truly breathtaking sequel to Incendiary, with all the action,adventure and romance of a cinematic fantasy. Someone NEEDS to adapt this series, movie or tv show, make it happen!

I loved the expanded world-building here, where we get to explore outside of Puerto Leones (a kingdom seemingly inspired by inquisition era Spain, which hunts the magic wielding Moria) and gives us a glimpse at the different cultures (and customs) that exist outside of Puerto Leones.

We’re also introduced to several new (and incredibly interesting) characters and even more startling secrets! Honestly, after Incendiary’s ending I didn’t think Zoraida Córdova could top the drama that unfolded. But,I’m absolutely glad she did.

Likewise,the complexity of Renata as a character and how she deals with the physical and emotional upheaval she experiences, is brilliantly written and the tension between her and Prince Castian is swoon-worthy. I loved how their relationship develops, and how much Castian has grown on me.

I also loved how much more action packed illusionary was to incendiary, which was very heavy in court intrigue and subterfuge. I got huge Sarah J. Maas and Leigh Bardugo vibes and I’m HERE for it.

Overall. a really enjoyable YA Fantasy with magic, adventure and romance (and even a little high seas hijinx). If you enjoy YA Fantasy, are looking for more diversity in fiction and love Leigh Bardugo or Sarah.J Maas then I suggest you check this (and The first book Incendiary) out.

And lastly a huge thank you to Hodder&Stoughton and Net Galley for the ARC.

[Manu ✦★✦ · Rating 2 out of 5]

It took me 18 days to read this book. Which was a surprise considering that I was really excited about this before it was released, and in another book, I would have probably taken only 3 days. The main problem I had was how BORING it was. A shame because I really liked the first book and I was really looking forward to this one.

The main reason I disliked this book was that my lack of focus due to nothing interesting happening made me don't understand anything at all, and add to that all the names of characters that I didn't remember from the previous book plus all the new ones added to this book. I only knew 5 characters everyone else was a stranger to me.

And another thing I was super excited to read in the book was the relationship development between Cas and Nati. But the thing is nothing happened, just like 3 cute scenes and the rest was meh.

And those two things combined made this book totally forgettable and boring for me. I don't personally think it was a bad book, there were some interesting things that I didn't fully understand But that's me, maybe it wasn't the right moment to read it but you may like it.

[Aly · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book picks up right after the first, with Renata and Castian on the run from the King and the Whispers. Ren has been betrayed by her people and Castian's father has put a bounty out for him. They're searching for Des, the missing prince, when they stumble on a story about a magic knife that might be able to help Ren with the memories plaguing her.

I thought this unfolded a bit slowly and was hoping for more action. More than an adventure story, this was about Renata discovering herself and dealing with her past. I did like the slow burn romance between Ren and Cas and the moments where they were vulnerable with each other were sweet.

It's difficult to know who you can trust, with the Whispers wanting the crown and King Fernando out to kill all the Moria people. Ren makes a couple allies as she goes and I enjoyed her found family.

[kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brilliantly written, beautifully crafted, satisfying conclusion to a sensational fantasy duology.

This book was everything I'd hoped it would be and then some. I couldn't have asked for more (except, perhaps, many more books because I don't want to leave these characters, their world or story.)

Illusionary is YA fantasy at its finest. It's reminded me why I keep persevering with this genre, despite often not getting on with it. Zoraida has written a story, world, magic system and cast of characters that sucked me in from the first page of book one. I won't be forgetting this story anytime soon and you can bet I'm not going to stop talking about it either.

[Katrina♡•• · Rating 3 out of 5]

A bit predictable
A bit underwhelming
It was ok

[Maura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you so much Hachette Book Group Canada for, providing me with a physical copy of Illusionary. Thank you for giving me the chance to read and review this book.

Illusionary, in my books, surpassed its predecessor (Incendiary). It is my favourite of the two books in the duology. Córdova does a great job of mesmerizing readers into her fantasy world. After the first chapter, I was immediately hooked and invested in the plot. I am also in love with this author's writing style. Córdova's writing style is both beautiful and feels somewhat poetic.

I read through this book quite quickly. The first and last half of this novel was enjoyable. I felt this duology had a nice ending. The book left room for a possible spin-off series. The plot picks up right where it left off after the events of Incendiary. I was happy to see more of Castian in this novel. Leo will forever be my favourite character from this series.

I'm a big fan of this duology's story concept and magic system. I like the idea of overthrowing an evil/unjust monarchy. Any storyline that includes enemies to lovers romance has me hooked. I thought the ending to this series was well done. I would have liked to see this series as a trilogy instead of a duology. I would have liked to see some character relationships be more fleshed out (Ex: Castian x Des x Ren). I also would have liked a greater (longer) battle scene at the end.

I felt the pacing flowed nicely throughout Illusionary. The events of the book kept me hooked from beginning to end. I enjoyed seeing the characters travel all over Puerto Leones. Córdova brought this world to life with her gorgeous writing style and the inclusion of all the different customs/traditions and foods. The world-building was beautifully fleshed out.

Overall, I felt Illusionary was a great wrap to a series that included beautiful world-building, gorgeous writing and a plot that readers can easily get lost into while reading this book. I loved the magic system, the various characters, and the enemies to lovers romance. I wanted a bit more character development and expansion on certain characters' relationships. I also would have liked to see a more drawn-out battle at the end. Besides those personal critiques, I'm super excited to see what Córdova comes out with next in the literary world. Illusionary was a great end to the Hollow Crown Duology.

[Becca (Horners_book_corner) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hodder kindly sent me a copy of Illusionary to read and review and I thought it was such a brilliant ending to the Hollow Crown duology! I don't want to spoil anything for anyone who hasn't started the series yet, so I will just say that I adore Renata (and Castian), the back-and-forth banter, the painfully slow burn romance and the *magic system*, which is SO unique! If you enjoyed Incendiary you'll definitely enjoy this too 😍

[Kaelyn Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me feel so many emotions. I’m so sad that it’s over, but it’s the best way to end this duology! I’m still so in love with Castian and this book increased my obsession A LOT. Love this book so much plz read it!!!