Murder By Illusion

Name: Murder By Illusion
Price: 23.49 USD
Availability: InStock
ISBN: 9784824117564

✍️ Giles Ekins

Reader Score

4.4

(1 review)

$23.49

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📚 WHAT THE BOOK IS ABOUT

A failed magician makes a pact that brings fame but unleashes deadly horror.

This work examines the intersection of performance art and dark fantasy. Ekins constructs a tale where the boundary between illusion and reality blurs dangerously. The protagonist’s rise to stardom is inextricably linked to his descent into terror. The narrative focuses on the psychological toll of success achieved through sinister means. It highlights the isolation of fame when accompanied by supernatural threats. The story does not offer easy answers regarding Tchort’s true nature or intentions.

Key Themes

stage illusion supernatural pact gruesome murders

Literary Context

This title sits within the tradition of gothic horror fiction that explores the dangers of ambition and the supernatural. It reflects a period where stage magic captivated audiences, blending entertainment with eerie mystery. The narrative draws on classic tropes of deals with demonic figures and the resulting personal ruin.

Difficulty

●● Medium

Recommended For Fans Of

Bram Stoker · H.P. Lovecraft · Clive Barker · Shirley Jackson

🕯️

Supernatural

🏛 Next Chapter 📅 2021 🌐 English 📔 Paperback ISBN: 9784824117564

📝 Description: Murder By Illusion

Giles Ekins presents a narrative centered on Charlie Chilton, a stage illusionist whose career has stalled. The story begins with an encounter with the mysterious Asmodeus Tchort, who offers a deal that promises fame and success in the world of magic. This arrangement propels Charlie toward becoming a renowned performer, yet the cost of his ambition becomes apparent as he tours his controversial new act across the country. The plot weaves through themes of supernatural horror and psychological dread. Charlie finds himself stalked by an evil presence while suffering from savage nightmares. Gruesome murders begin to dog his trail, raising the question of whether the magician has become a killer or if he is merely a victim of Tchort’s design. The narrative explores the dark side of stage magic and the consequences of making deals with unknown entities. It draws on gothic traditions where supernatural forces interfere with human ambition. The story suits readers who enjoy tales of magical pacts and eerie suspense. It may not appeal to those seeking lighthearted entertainment or straightforward mystery without supernatural elements.

💎 Our verdict on Murder By Illusion

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🩸

Horror Reads editorial team

Horror desk

Ekins effectively constructs a narrative where Charlie Chilton’s rise to stardom is inextricably linked to his descent into terror. The author excels at weaving supernatural horror with psychological dread, particularly through the protagonist’s savage nightmares and the stalking evil presence. By focusing on the psychological toll of success achieved through sinister means, the story creates a tense atmosphere suitable for fans of magical pacts. While it avoids easy answers regarding Tchort’s intentions, this ambiguity enhances the eerie suspense, making it an ideal choice for readers who appreciate the dark side of stage magic and gothic traditions.

✓ EDITOR'S REVIEW

📖 Why choose it

📖

Why this book is worth reading

Readers drawn to the intersection of performance art and psychological horror will find this title compelling. It offers a deep dive into the isolation of fame and the terrifying cost of ambition, appealing to those who enjoy suspense where the line between illusion and reality dangerously blurs. Fans of dark fantasy and gothic tales featuring sinister pacts will appreciate the exploration of Tchort’s ambiguous nature. This book suits audiences seeking eerie suspense rather than lighthearted entertainment or straightforward mysteries.

⭐ Reader reviews

The starting rating comes from the team Horror Reads —

Reader rating

4.4

Based on 1 reviews

Horror Reads editorial team

Ekins effectively constructs a narrative where Charlie Chilton’s rise to stardom is inextricably linked to his descent into terror. The author excels at weaving supernatural horror with psychological dread, particularly through the protagonist’s savage nightmares and the stalking evil presence. By focusing on the psychological toll of success achieved through sinister means, the story creates a tense atmosphere suitable for fans of magical pacts. While it avoids easy answers regarding Tchort’s intentions, this ambiguity enhances the eerie suspense, making it an ideal choice for readers who appreciate the dark side of stage magic and gothic traditions.