Review: The Ninja's Illusion

Title: The Ninja’s Illusion

Series: Jaya Jones #5

Author: Gigi Pandian

Release Date: October 3rd, 2017

Rating: 3.5 /5 Stars

Synopsis from Goodreads: A fabled illusion performed by a stage magician who claims to possess real supernatural powers. A treasure from the colonial era in India when international supremacies vied for power. A phantom trading ship lost over 200 years ago. And a ninja whose murderous intentions in present-day Japan connect the deeds of a long-dead trader who was much more than he seemed… When Jaya travels from San Francisco to Japan with her stage magician best friend Sanjay—a.k.a. The Hindi Houdini—for his Japanese debut, she jumps at the chance to pursue her own research that could solve a tantalizing centuries-old mystery. With the colorful autumn leaves of historic Kyoto falling around her, Jaya soon loses sight of what’s real and what’s a deception. A mysterious ninja attempts sabotage on Sanjay’s trick, along with Japan’s most controversial magician, Akira. Ancient folklore blurs the lines between illusion and reality when a magician’s assistant appears to be a kitsune, a mythical fox spirit. As tricks escalate to murder, Jaya and her friends must unravel secrets hidden in the ancient capital of Japan, before one of their own becomes the next victim.

My Review: I love the characters the Pandian creates, as well as the mysteries that they solve. They usually involve hidden secrets and long lost treasures. This particular one fell a bit short though because it focuses too much on the main characters best friend and his magic act, rather than Jaya and the mystery of the lost treasure.

That being said, it was still a great story full of historical intrigue and delightful historical facts. Being a history major I always love a good bit of historical intrigue in my mysteries. Pandian writes exceptionally well and weaves beautiful scenery and cultural facts into the story with ease. Although this book wasn’t my favorite I’m sure others will love it and I look forward to reading the next installment in the series!

*I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*