The Illusion of Murder is a well written blend of the science fiction and crime/mystery thriller genres by Author Diane Henson which introduces the reader to the characters of Beka and Rena. Two very strong, feisty and completely relatable female protagonists. Beka and Rena are sisters enstranged by past hurts and misunderstandings who are brought together but on opposite sides of the Galactic Confederancy law. Beka is enlisted by their corrupt Uncle to hunt Rena down when he falsely accuses Rena of committing murder. She is skilled, determined, intelligent and loyal to the Guardians, determined to bring the guilty to justice no matter who they are. Rena is a softer version of her sister but with untapped and deadly talents that come to the fore when she is placed in life threatening situations.
This is a really highly entertaining plot, moving at a good pace and propelling the reader forward through a fascinating world with its complicated and questionable politics, conspiracies, betrayals, secrets, and deadly predators. The characters are really well developed, the dialogue relevant and there is very little to distract from the story. The reader is hooked from the offset and completely engaged from beginning to end. I thoroughly enjoyed the story, and it is a brilliant start to a series which I hope will continue further as there are still quite a few threads to resolve. I was completed endeared and captivated by Rena’s character and especially her relationship with Edaja which I definitely wanted to read more of.
I highly recommend and have no hesitation in awarding 5 stars.