I believe Illusional Reality is the first book I’ve read by author Karina Kantas. The book is a fantasy novel based in two realities. The story starts on the non-magical planet Earth we know and quickly moves to an alternate dimension, a world called Enumac, with a unique magic and language of it’s own. Similarities to a number of science fiction and fantasy stories I’ve read or viewed are expertly integrated into this intriguing story. A young woman who has grown up in the mundane earth that we know finds herself in another world. At first she thinks it is a dream. However, it does not take long for her to realize that she is not dreaming and these people believe she is their princess, destined to save them from the evil of an enemy warlord.
The author has created a unique set of magical talents in a setting with a culture that I imagine to be a creative mixture of woodland fairies and medieval Europe. A world in which the magic is only accessed in Enumac and is unavailable on Earth, even to those from their reality.
I truly enjoyed the story, the plot was well done and I was thoroughly engaged in the story. The characters were pretty good. I think that, for me, the attempt to create an archaic language hindered the full development of the characters. The dialogue was difficult to read because similar meaning words were used to express common colloquialisms. I think this prevented my full understanding and comprehension of character development. Had the common language of any English speaking Earth country been used I believe the character development would have been more evident and profound. The unusual wording left the characters feeling stilted and too formal. I do understand the author’s intent in trying to establish an archaic language to reflect the medieval setting. Using a modern spelling of something resembling 16th century English might be more effective in attaining that goal.
Regardless, the story was excellent and I finished the book in less than a full day. The conclusion was wrapped up nicely and I was not left with the feeling of a major cliff hanger. There is hint that there could be more to the story and I do look forward to reading the next installment. But, if for some reason there is no sequel, I would not be disappointed that I’ve been left hanging. I’d recommend this book for 16 and over. There are a couple scenes containing some sex, however, it is not graphically detailed. Over all an enjoyable read.
Enjoy!
Grandma Peachy
Links:
https://www.amazon.com/Illusional-Reality-Karina-Kantas-ebook/dp/B01AZYUH3A
https://www.amazon.com/Karina-Kantas/e/B0034P98EW/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1
Twitter: @KarinaKantas