Born of Illusion

For fans of Libba Bray and Anna Godbersen, this thrilling historical suspense novel is the story of a budding magician who has spent her life playing sidekick to her faux-medium mother—and trying to hide the fact that she possesses magnificent powers. As the illegitimate daughter of Harry Houdini—or so her mother claims—gifted illusionist Anna Van Housen easily navigates the underground world of magicians and mediums in 1920s New York, though the real trick is keeping her true gifts secret from her opportunistic mother. But as Anna's powers intensify, she experiences frightening visions that lead her to explore the powers she's tried so long to hide. Lovers of historical fiction and stories filled with romance and intrigue will fall for Born of Illusion and its whip-smart, savvy protagonist. But in a world of stage magic and fake mediums, what happens when her powers become dangerously real? Family Secrets: Anna’s mother claims she is the illegitimate daughter of Harry Houdini. But in a family built on lies, discovering the truth could be the most dangerous illusion of all. Magicians and Mediums: A dazzling dive into the hidden world of 1920s New York, from glamorous theaters to underground séances where one wrong move could mean exposure—or worse. Forbidden Powers: While her mother fakes contact with the dead, Anna is haunted by terrifying, real visions. Hiding her gift is second nature, but her growing powers demand to be seen. A Slow Burn Romance: She meets a mysterious young man who seems to understand her in a way no one ever has. But in her world of deception, trusting him might be the deadliest trick of all.