Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
Generations ago, a new breed of human emerged. The government, fearing these new “Enhanced,” isolated these families into communities boasting prison-like perimeters to live in exile, safeguarding the rest of the world from the anomalies.

As one of the few Enhanced humans whose gifts encompass the mental and physical spectrums, Nathalee lives a life separate from others. Even amongst those who the world segregates as potential weapons, Nat is shunned for her telepathic abilities, until she finds her opportunity to make a difference in their tiny world as an enforcer.

Part of a new experimental team, Nathalee must wade through muddied mental waters if the team hopes to stop the assailant who enjoys pitting citizens against one another. Those confrontations are coming to violent, life-ruining ends for anyone involved. The suspect pool is large and powerful, but the repercussions of failure put everyone she knows and loves at risk.


With so many possibilities of both suspects and victims, Nat will test the limits of her ability -and her sanity- in order to track the illusionist and stop the tyranny.

342 pages, ebook

First published January 1, 2018

76 people are currently reading
675 people want to read

About the author

LeAnn Mason

13 books399 followers
LeAnn Mason is an author of YA/NA Urban Science Fantasy with prominent crime elements, her debut novel Illusionary is set to release March 23, 2018.
When she's not writing, she can be found out with her hubby and two munchkins around their Oklahoma home either herding chickens or racing ATVs.
Though currently horseless, she has been riding since her early teen years and adores the giant animals so much that she wrote them into her story. Music is another constant in her life, a literal muse to her writing, so it was no surprise to find it entrenched in the pages as well.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
85 (54%)
4 stars
38 (24%)
3 stars
23 (14%)
2 stars
4 (2%)
1 star
5 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
Profile Image for Layla.
86 reviews5 followers
August 3, 2018
I loved this book!! I thought I knew what to expect but this is not your normal YA book which I really liked. Instead of the main character not knowing about her power or heritage, in this book she does and so do everyone else. She lives in a community that have power and the whole world knows about it.
There is no prophecies (thank god!!) Or a love triangles (I really love Holden the love interest, he is sweet and sexy rolled into one!), she is intelligent and shows it, she is not the best but works in a team, where the best ability from each person is utilized and she has her own issues but deals with it.
This book also deals with other issues like, freedom, peace, prejudice and working together. The story has romance, action, mystery and a bit of an intrigue.
I thought the author really thought this book through and thought what if. To me it seemed realistic and we see these characteristics prejudice, ignorance and fear in people around us about things they have little knowledge about.

My only negative is that Nathalee did something which I found surprising because we see that she is clever and she shows it except for this particular instance which I am really surprised about.

But other then this it is a great book.
I would highly recommend it.

It doesn't end on a cliffhanger, there is no sexual content (just kissing) and some violence.

I hope there are more books to come in this series.
Profile Image for Debbie.
88 reviews29 followers
March 23, 2018
A debut author and the beginning of a new series – two of my favorite things all wrapped up in one! There were a few things that stood out for me in this story, including the not-all-that-UNrealistic premise of a future where we have figured out how to genetically enhance humans with super abilities while also ostracizing them. Another is how multi-layered the story is – science fiction mixed with crime-solving/justice-bringing plus young adults coming-of-age with a touch of romance. And then there are the characters themselves – I loved Nathalee and Holden especially but there are great secondary characters as well. If I had a choice (which none of them do, unfortunately) between having an off-the-charts physical ability or a powerful mental/psychic ability, I honestly don’t know which I’d choose. All of the different powers and consequences of having them make this story unique and interesting. I am glad there will be more books in the series and am looking forward to reading them!
Profile Image for Nikki Pearce.
228 reviews6 followers
September 11, 2018
Loved Illusionary. For a debut novel it’s utterly AMAZING.
I couldn’t put it down.
Great characterisation. Amazing storyline that flows throughout and keeps you hooked and turning the pages.
I didn’t think I would get into this genre but oh my Leann had me at the first page.
Nathalee lives in a town of enhanced humans. Sage and Primal. The two do not get along. They are stuck in the one town of Minefield. Not allowed to leave. She’s a Hybrid and has a gift of telepathy. This gift has lost her a lot of friends. She goes through her days going to work at the local uni and visiting the stables on her way home. She meets Holden. A mute. BANG. Instant connection. Nathalee can hear Holdens thoughts. They can have a conversation. Holden is ecstatic. Nathalee is asked to join a new squad of Enforcers. Can they all bond and help the Enhanced make a life in the outside?
I recommend this book to all.
Profile Image for L.B..
Author 25 books575 followers
July 28, 2018
Mason's writing is beautiful, so eloquent and precisely crafted that I easily fell into her tale, regardless of the fact that it is also an interesting and innovative storyline about a sort of sci-fi/futuristic/dystopian tale regarding modified intelligence and physical abilities. I highly recommend if you have any interest in sci-fi/urban fantasy/dystopia/law and policing and of course romantic tension. A well-designed story, to which I'm eagerly anticipating book 2.
76 reviews
March 29, 2018
I throughly enjoyed this book LeAnn Mason. I love how she is able to blend sci/fi fantasy together and you don't lose the story along the way Natalee is far from normal she has special abilities. she lives in minefield with her father and mother she's always been an outcast. until she meets Holden and this changes her life forever.
Profile Image for Lexie.
2,066 reviews357 followers
dnf
February 13, 2019
DNF at 15% bc I literally could not stand another moment. Every paragraph is one long, often convoluted, sentence. I'm not sure if it's because the proper punctuation is missing or what.

I couldn't comprehend the story because my brain was too busy trying to edit the story into something I could read properly.
Profile Image for Laura.
97 reviews11 followers
March 22, 2018
Nat just made the top five favorite MC's list for me, and coming from a book-aholic that's saying something! I NEED more!! Lol. Seriously this book is amazing and oh so intriguing, I could NOT put it down!
Profile Image for Amy Condra.
20 reviews3 followers
September 10, 2018
This book was amazing I loved every word. It was such a new take on the future and people with abilities. The characters like Nathalee and Holden and my personal favourite Dev are so well written that it feels like you are part of the team. I loved it and would highly recommend it.
24 reviews
September 29, 2018
I really liked reading this book. LeAnn gives you realistic progression in a story that is very easy to insert yourself in. The writing here was done very well. I would definitely recommend this book.
Profile Image for Sooz Willow.
44 reviews1 follower
April 6, 2018
Fabulous

I love books that make me think, make me want to keep going. This did all that and more. Thank you.
Profile Image for Monique.
907 reviews1 follower
October 14, 2018
Enjoyable read

I quite liked this story, it had some very authentic and real moments of the characters interactions. This story has the potential to be a great series.
Profile Image for Tamsin O'Shea.
Author 10 books6 followers
Read
June 1, 2019
Well written with a great story and characters. I enjoyed this journey into LeAnn Mason's world and totally look forward to the next book she writes (hopefully there will be)
264 reviews1 follower
June 27, 2025
Ummm. Wow. This book was surprisingly so good. I don’t know why I was surprised, but I was. I really enjoyed it. Super cool world and magic system, great character development, interesting storyline. Highly recommend. I will be reading this again.
Profile Image for Tiffany.
694 reviews41 followers
June 15, 2019
I received a digital arc in exchange for an honest review.

Instead of a traditional review, I am going to break it down into an interview with myself as a reader.

Favourite quote:

‘They say knowledge is power. Maybe that was why so little knowledge about us to the world was allowed.’ – so true in history class, only certain points are discussed, and others are never mentioned.

What age group would I recommend this to?
I would say upper YA, ages 16+. There is some violence and minimal language, and anyone can read it, but because of the ages of the characters, older readers might have more appreciation for the circumstances and characters if they are more age relatable.

How did I feel reading this book?
This was a really exciting read. I actually finished it in about 24 hours (and that includes time spent at work!). The storyline was fast paced, making it hard to put the book down. Although the beginning was a bit dry - all books are like that, because the setting and the basis for the storyline needs to be explained – this was minimal and quickly jumped into the exciting parts.
I love crime stories and dystopias, and mixed with a bit of science fiction and some fantasy due to powers (ex, telepathy, telekinesis), this makes for a perfect blend.

How were the characters?
Let’s start with the protagonist, Nathalee. At 18 years old, she’s a telepath, and is constantly hearing the thoughts of others. For this reason, she’s always with earbuds, listening to music. Her character starts out as an introvert, but she starts to open up as the story progresses. She never mis-treats anyone, and although she is embarrassed to visit job prospects with her father, she never disrespects him or her mother or anyone else in the book. Although she’s very quiet at the start, towards the end, she’s not afraid to voice her opinions and concerns, especially once she joins the Enforcers (“Boat Shoes” lol).
Next up, Holden. Not a lot to say to be honest, other than an interesting character as he cannot physically speak. He was a mysterious character at the start, but his goals and motives become clearer as the story progresses.
Nathalee’s parents – her father was great, a terrific representation of a parental figure and constantly worrying for his daughter. Her mother though, we did not see much of in the story.
And Commander James, I have some suspicions about him, but we’ll see how those go as the story continues.

What did I like?
There’s a lot I liked about this book. I’ll start firstly by saying that although there was a romance element with Nathalee and Holden, this was kept to a minimum. The story was fast-paced and interesting, I liked how she joined the Enforcers and her reason for doing so. I was absolutely amazed about how she treated her friend and gave her great opportunities to use her powers. I won’t say any more about this as it is a spoiler and you’ll come across it when you read it.
Another thing that impressed me with this book was inclusivity and accommodating others with special needs. As Holden can’t speak, he needs to use alternative methods to communicate. This makes the story more relatable as although it is set in a fictional place with fictional people, others can relate to the experiences.
I also liked the references that popped up throughout the book, especially with music (ex, Best Day of My Life, or Home Alone.)

What didn’t I like?
There were some times where the descriptions were too descriptive (ex, sunlight burning my retinas with its intensity; or “as I looked around for the reason I was no longer vertical)…somehow these descriptions didn’t fit with the story, however, all the descriptions make sense and are understandable. However, this is merely the author’s writing style, and I’m sure that as I read more of her books, I will become more accustomed to the style.
The ending was a little rushed as well, I found it a little too convenient for them to beat the bad guy right at the end of the book, and it wrapped up as if a standalone. This however will not deter me from reading other books in this series because the author has made it quite clear that although this book wrapped up nicely, the overall story is nowhere near finished.

Overall rating:
4/5

Would I read this again?
Yes, definitely!

Would I read the sequel or any future books in this series?
Again, yes!

Overall:
A really, really amazing story filled with action and suspense, with a focus on maintaining strong friendships. I can’t say this enough; I really enjoyed the story! Can’t wait to see what will happen in book 2.
Profile Image for debturk1970_bookvibes.
1,854 reviews18 followers
September 10, 2018
An Exciting & Explosive New Series!!💥

Nathalee 'Nat' Dae was born genetically Enhanced. People had started to be born, 3 generations prior, with either physical or mental abilities. Those with physical abilities were called Primal's & those with mental abilities were Sage!! Nat's Dad is a a Hybrid as he had one Primal & one Sage parent, Nat's Mum is Sage but due to her Dad she is a Hybrid too!!😎

The 'Enhanced' have been segregated into towns, throughout the world, that keep them separated, contained & ultimately controlled by the Non Enhanced Governments 😡 They're further separated because of their own prejudices. The Sage view Primal's as inferior because they aren't as mentally capable as them & the Primal's view the Sage as extremely weak!👎

Her ability is Telepathy, hers is extreme as she can't tune anyone out unless they learn to block her! She can also heal rapidly but that's something only her Parents & she know 😳 Her Bestfriend, Jade, is an Empath & like Nat she has an extreme form of it. She can read large crowds of people's emotions as well push emotions on to others 😳 They both get treated like outcasts for having such intrusive abilities, Nat is especially ostracized!😢

Nat has meets Holden at the stables. She goes there to centre herself & loves being around the horses. Holden is a big, sexy Primal & it turns out he's mute. They're able to communicate because of her telepath ability, he would usually have to use sign language. It's amazing for him, He feels 'seen' for once, as he usually just gets ignored or snubbed. Nat understands to an extent due to her ability making her an outcast!!😞 She loves that she gets to hear his deep, sexy voice & his laughter, she's possibly the only person that has!!🌟 They're both clearly very attracted to each other & she leaves practically swooning!!💘

At work the next day she's told someone wants to see her. It's the Commander of their Enforcement Unit & he's got a proposal for her - a mixed team of Primal's & Sage's, utilising the best of both Enhanced abilities, to bring down any enhanced people that cross dangerous, illegal lines! She knows this could possibly be the answer she's been searching for, a reason for her extreme gift & one that helps people too!!😎

This book is fantastic, I'm stunned its a debut novel!!😱 The richness of the characters, world & story is fantastic. I can see it capturing many people's imagination regardless of age of gender!👍 The burgeoning romance between Nathalee & Holden is both sweet & protective but also hot without more than a few kisses passing between them - I think it's the looks & feelings 😍 A highly recommended 5 Stars 🌟

Debbie, 1970, UK
Profile Image for Paperbacks.
378 reviews28 followers
September 8, 2018
Illusionary was a great read, it managed to combine a ton of information and action, but in an easy going and light read way. it’s sad that Nathalee and the other enhanced are segregated from society, but when you start to learn more about the abilities some have gained it can be understood why there may be prejudices. However it’s kind of devastating that nothing has been done to address them other than shutting the enhanced off from the rest of society. Little moments, such as the enhanced only being provided with ancient vehicles that the non enhanced have no use for really bring home that whilst super human they are very much second class. Divides are internal as well, between the Primals (strength) and Sages (intelligence) so the concepts of division and unity are strong themes within the story and are dealt with really well.

I realise that goes against my opening gambit of easy going and light, but really other than that it is! Nathalee is great character and certainly one that readers with sensory issues will be sure to connect with. She is bright, forthright and daring, she is also a great friend showing good leadership qualities. I also love how issues of disability aren’t dwelt on, they just seamlessly fit into the story, it’s beautifully inclusive.

The whole concept behind the Minefield Enforcers series looks to be incredibly fun for both this and future books. Whilst this one rightly focused on getting the team together, it left slightly less time for the big bad element of the story so the ending felt a little rushed, but the Illusionist is a great villain (slight hints of the Jessica Jones series) and I wonder if he’ll return in future books in a The Joker kind of way. The team feel very much like Xaviers academy meet the Dauntless faction, with funny, awkward, and at times tense banter; but the scope for these characters to grow and bond and fall out is huge and they are a great set up for the rest of the series.

Illusionary is very much a YA read and I think that’s all the better for it, it’s a story which embraces being just that. Whilst there is a little romantic element it’s not central and it doesn’t pull away from the justice that these super humans are trying to achieve.

Profile Image for BlueBug.
895 reviews2 followers
April 6, 2018
Nathalee is one of a new breed of enhanced human hybrids with gifts that have emerged. The love of her father and mother for each other, two people with two completely different sets of enhancements, sets her apart from the rest of the kids in her school, as if it isn't difficult enough to make her way through these years as it is. Because of who she is, there are enhancements that are obvious to the rest of the citizens of their society. But the secrets she keeps could change everything about her life.

When she meets Holden, the mute who works in the stables on her way home from school, she not only finds a confidant and friendship she never experienced before, but she finds herself in a world that has opened up to her because of the secrets she has been keeping. Not only does she discover there is someone who could potentially become more than a friend to her, but she may have found a purpose for her gifts. Of course, nothing can come easy to the young sweethearts, either in their personal lives or otherwise as they work together to find the enhanced individual who is driving others to their deaths.

I was absolutely mesmerized by the debut novel for this author. Her characters are multi-layered and realistic, pulling me through the story with barely a moment to catch my breath. The combinations of the powers that kept the enhanced individuals within a society but continued to separate them on so many other levels brought the story to life. The circumstances that brought our star-crossed pair together were unexpected and unique made story fit well within the world she is building. I am looking forward to seeing where she takes not only the heroine and hero of the story but the rest of the characters who vie for a more visible role. It's an excellent beginning to this author's writing career, and I think she will be someone to keep our eyes on.
Profile Image for Tiffany Murphy.
822 reviews84 followers
October 1, 2018
Because Nathalee is one of the few Enhanced Humans who are gifted with powers that vary along the physical and mental spectrums, she’s forced to live a life separated from the rest of society. The non-enhanced people are afraid that the enhanced will use their gifts as weapons against them, so they keep to themselves. But, because of her telepathic abilities, Nathalee is largely shunned, even in her own community. She can’t imagine how much more she’d be feared and avoided if everyone figures out that she’s been gifted with both Primal (physical) and Sage (mental) abilities. That begins to change when she’s chosen to be a part of a combined task force with both Prima and Sage Enforcers. Her team is going to have to figure out a way to work together if they’re going to stop the person using his telepathic abilities to create illusions in the minds of others, causing acts of violence and, even a couple of deaths.

I really enjoyed this fun, interesting read. One of the things I really enjoyed was that Nathalee already knew about her abilities from the start. So many series start out with the female main character feeling powerless and unaware of their powers. While I do enjoy seeing them come into their own, it was refreshing to see things evolve later in their story. LeAnn Mason wrote a wonderful story that kept me engaged and created dynamic, relatable, flawed characters that I couldn’t help but engage with. I’m looking forward to reading more of this series and her other works.

I’d like to thank LeAnn Mason for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I understand that receiving the book in this manner doesn’t obligate me to leave a positive review.
Profile Image for Kim.
125 reviews
January 13, 2024
This was a fast paced book and if you enjoy books in which the main character and her love interest pretty much fall in love instantly, then you’ll probably enjoy this a lot.

I thought that the ending, especially the main “bad guy” apprehension, was done way too fast. Maybe if this book had been a bit longer the end wouldn’t have felt as rushed as it did?

I really enjoyed the idea of a group of humans being segregated because they developed “gifts”. I also thought that the author was pretty good at showing how within this segregated community, tensions between groups are running high, making the idea of a “blended” team of enforcers so much more interesting.

However there were a lot of discrepancies that felt like some parts of the plot weren’t really thought out. At the beginning our main character is running home late and freaking out about worrying her parents having no way to contact them to give them a heads up… but a few chapters later she is now the owner of a phone and can text/call other people. Why not in the beginning? Other instances of small details like these happen throughout the book, but overall it was still a nice quick read.
5 reviews67 followers
March 9, 2018
LeAnn Mason created a world unlike one that I have seen before. Without spoiling to much (none of the story line will be spoiled), we are introduced to Nat. Like the line says, Even among the outcasts, she stands out. Nat truly is an outcast among the people there in Minefield.

We are quickly introduced to Sage and Primals as we see the reason for their divide.

However, Nat does find her place, or so she thinks, among a new Enforcer group. This group tests Nat's patience while threatening to reveal her deepest secret if she lets any of them get to close to her. Theres only one problem. Holden. Through him, Nat may learn to trust. Through this, she starts to slowly test out the extent of her abilities and finds she can be much stronger, both physically and mentally, than anybody ever thought.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book as it doesnt just focus solely on a relationship. The focus is more on the Science-Fiction/Urban Fantasy side of things with sprinkles of romance in it. Theres action as well. I love this wholly unique story that LeAnn Mason has created.
Profile Image for Donna (BookDragonGirl).
1,478 reviews9 followers
June 20, 2021
I was finally able to sit down and read the first book in the Minefield Enforcers series! I love Mason’s work, and I’ve been wanting to read this trilogy!

I can’t believe this was her first book!! I couldn’t put it down!! The uniqueness of the storyline and the characters has me captivated!!!

The main character, Nathalee (Nat), is very relatable. She has a hard time fitting in or feeling comfortable in the world. She meets Holden, and immediately feels comfortable with him. He becomes the love interest, and he is SO SWEET!!!! I can wait for more of the two of them!

Although this is a trilogy, I was happy that this wasn’t left on a cliffhanger. I already own all three books, so I wouldn’t have to wait for the next book, but for those who don’t and can’t get the next book right away… you won’t be going out of your mind. Not that you won’t be looking forward to diving right back into the Minefield Enforcers world, I know I am!!
Profile Image for Kayla Barnett.
Author 3 books12 followers
February 18, 2018
This was an amazing story. I was immediately pulled into Nathalee's world and entranced by her abilities. I found myself cheering her on as she struggled to find a place where she could be not only useful but accepted. I rooted for her and Holden as they explored their relationship and their feelings for one another. I was gripped as Nathalee and the whole team came face to face with their elusive illusionist and I couldn't put the book down, I needed to know what would happen next. All too soon the book came to an end, leaving me wanting more. It was a fantastic start to a whole new world and I can't wait for the next installment to see where the team find themselves and how they'll prove themselves.
Profile Image for Jackie.
2,554 reviews
April 12, 2018
4 & 1/2 stars rounded up.
*I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader's copy of this book.*
I enjoyed this book. The beginning started off a bit slow & stiff & occasionally repetitive. It took almost to the 30% point for that to level out & for the story to get good & actually pull me in, I think part of that 1st 30% was world building for the readers to be able to understand what happens in the last 70%. I didn't notice very many typo mistakes, which is always a plus for me. I did like Holden right away. Nathalee took some warming up to, for me, I did like her by the end of the book. Not sure what direction this will take as a series, but I liked Holden & Nathalee's developing romance enough to want to find out where it leads them.
81 reviews
June 11, 2019
The author definitely made an impression with her debut! I love that it was such an interesting and original twist on telepathy. I was immediately sucked in to the idea of this task force of young adults with different abilities. X-men was my favorite as a kid, and this was a bit reminiscent of that for me. I also love a little romance, and the mc’s budding relationship with the hunky Holden. It had just the right amount of action, character development, and plot substance. The bit of snark was icing on the cake. All in all it was a great book that kept you hooked till the end. I’m very glad I waited until the trilogy was complete, before I started. I need to know where these characters go next, so I’m off to start the second book now.
Profile Image for NV Adda.
87 reviews2 followers
April 15, 2025
I didn't have high expectations for this book, adding it to my Kindle when it was free on Amazon. The cover didn't attract me that much and the fact that it's not that well-known, but alas, I was wrong.

The story is amazing and has a unique plot, immaculate world building and perfectly outlined characters.

Unlike other books, in this world those with powers are excluded, kept away from normal people and forced to live together, although even in their own community there are very big differences.

This world, although invented, can be used as a metaphor for the world we live in and how certain groups of people are seen with different eyes and removed from society even though they would bring a plus, not a minus.

I can't wait to read the next volumes.
Profile Image for Mandy.
822 reviews5 followers
December 16, 2018
Wow

What a fantastic book. I didn't know if I would like it from the description but it was a really good book. I loved Holden's character he was by far the most interesting out of all. And I love how much he cared for Nat. Holden and Matt belong together. Also I love the part of the book about a team of people full of differences. Also I kind of like the commander he was funny to me I don't know why also apparently per Nat attractive. Lol. Well Holden is hot so you know his uncle the commander is fine too. I don't know if I'll be reading more but I think I'll look into the next book. I'll definitely go from there.
Profile Image for Leah Dynes.
1,034 reviews11 followers
May 28, 2019
This book was a great series starter. Nathalee is an outcast, even in her town made to keep Enhanced people all together and separated from normal humans. Being a telepath makes everyone weary to be around her, except her empath best friend Jade. When she meets Holden, who cannot speak, her world is flipped upside down. She’s instantly attracted to him, and when Commander James comes to recruit her to a new team of enforcers, she’s excited to finally be wanted and needed within her community. However, getting the different types of enhanced people, along with the non enhanced, to work together, may be a whole other story.

I am excited to read the next book.
Profile Image for Michelle Fritz PA.
1,358 reviews98 followers
January 5, 2018
Loved this brilliant and fresh new series!! It's brimming with depth and emotion. The plot is extremely well thought out and executed. The main character is so mature and she is stunningly fleshed out! You'll love the wit that is so seamlessly crafted in. The dramatic suspense will keep you turning those pages! This debut novel will keep you entertained and begging for the next one to be released ♡♡♡♡ Ms. Mason's writing is captivating and intelligent, her topics are well researched. You won't be able to put this down!!
Profile Image for Lauren.
202 reviews3 followers
February 25, 2018
I enjoyed this book. It was a new take on super humans. This book didn't focus so much on everyone's individual talents setting them apart but rather put them all in a wall behind safety for us and them. I would hope fans of Divergent Series would enjoy this book because I believe it pulls off the concept of walled off society better than Divergent ever did. I can't wait to read the next one as we need to know more about why our little Sage has some Primal in her and if the rest of the super natural world is going to catch up with what's right for society.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.