Do you believe what you have seen or did you see what you believe? Ms. King writes in the manner of illusion reminiscent of the old masters, Houdini and Harry Blackstone, Jr.: with their magic, they always left you in awe wondering what could have been, what should have been, or what really just was. Was it a sleight of the hand or was it something else? Magic tricks have always intrigued me but I am a cynic at heart. Ellie, the heroine of Beyond Illusion is no different from me.

Ellie Waterhouse is an entertainment reviewer for an Atlanta based magazine. When her editor comes up with the idea of sending her to Las Vegas to do a review for a new magic show, Ellie is not sure she is the person to do the job as she is too much of a cynic. That is what her editor wants: a review on whether Vincent Darque's magic shows are all
they are cracked up to be. Ellie is amazed with the magic shows even though she keeps in mind that it is all an illusion--or is it? When Vincent picks her out of the audience for his final trick, she wants to prove that it is just that, a trick. Ellie allows Vincent to talk her into interviewing him.

Backstage after the show, Vincent's good looks and sexy body entrance her. Vincent Darque, a tall dark-haired man with more than a touch of magic, is drawn to Ellie. He can feel her presence in the audience in a way that is rare and special. Even though the Brotherhood of Illusion swears him to secrecy, he arranges with Ellie's boss for her to join him on his three-week tour. Ellie has that something extra that draws Vincent like a moth to a flame.

Vincent and Ellie find it easy to fall in love as sparks fly and passions rise but there is something darker lurking around the corner. Can Ellie trust the magic that Vincent wants to share with her--or is it all just an illusion?

If you need to get away for a few hours, then pick up Beyond Illusion. It is a hot sexy read with a touch of suspense thrown in. Vincent and Ellie light up the page. As with all of Ms. King's books that I have read I truly enjoyed this one. I would recommend Beyond Illusion to anyone who wants a wonderfully written story of finding love and safety in the most unexpected places.

Reviewed by Tammy Adams
© July 2005