9780062299871
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Elusion audiobook

  • By: Claudia Gabel
  • Narrator: Arielle DeLisle
  • Length: 9 hours 9 minutes
  • Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books
  • Publish date: March 18, 2014
  • Language: English
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Elusion Audiobook Summary

The mind-blowing beginning of a futuristic series about the seductive nature of a perfect virtual world and how far one girl will go to uncover the truth behind the illusions.

A new technology is sweeping the country. To enter Elusion(r), you need an app, a visor, and a wristband, and you’ll be virtually transported to an exotic destination where adventure comes without the complications or consequences of real life. When there are accusations that Elusion is addictive and dangerous, Regan is determined to defend it and is pulled into incredible new worlds to discover deeply buried truths–and to make the ultimate choice between love and loyalty. . . .

Full of thrilling mystery, romance, and intriguing technology, this Inception-inspired thriller is perfect for fans of dystopian and sci-fi novels such as Uglies by Scott Westerfeld, Matched by Ally Condie, and Partials by Dan Wells, and is continued in the sequel, Etherworld.

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Elusion Audiobook Narrator

Arielle DeLisle is the narrator of Elusion audiobook that was written by Claudia Gabel

Claudia Gabel and Cheryl Klam are the authors of Elusion. They met when Claudia edited Cheryl's previous novels, Learning to Swim and The Pretty One. Claudia works as an editor in New York, but she's also the author of several books for tweens and teens, including the In or Out series and the mash-up Romeo & Juliet & Vampires. They liked working together so much that they decided to write a bunch of things together, including movie proposals and TV sitcom scripts. And then one day they had the idea for Elusion, and the rest is the future.

About the Author(s) of Elusion

Claudia Gabel is the author of Elusion

Elusion Full Details

Narrator Arielle DeLisle
Length 9 hours 9 minutes
Author Claudia Gabel
Publisher Katherine Tegen Books
Release date March 18, 2014
ISBN 9780062299871

Additional info

The publisher of the Elusion is Katherine Tegen Books. The imprint is Katherine Tegen Books. It is supplied by Katherine Tegen Books. The ISBN-13 is 9780062299871.

Global Availability

This book is only available in the United States.

Goodreads Reviews

Dark Faerie Tales

November 20, 2013

Review courtesy of Dark Faerie TalesQuick & Dirty: An amazing story that you devour like a chocolate cake, one that will leave you shocked and gaping at a cliffhanger. Well-paced, well-written . . . what isn’t to like?Opening Sentence: “Don’t be scared, Regan,” My father says. “I’ll be next to you the whole time, I promise.”The Review:It is a different world than the present one — pollution has become a major conflict, and acid rains storm as citizens wear air purifiers with heavy-duty umbrellas. Elusion is a new technology invented by Regan’s father, a virtual world where pain, sadness, and anything other than bliss are nowhere to be found. Regan’s dad passed, leaving her mother and herself to deal with loss as rumors of Elusion’s “addictiveness” fly through the city. But Regan begins to wonder . . . could these claims be correct?This is going to be the next big thing! Elusion is a mind-blowing start to a series. I was immediately hooked, from the second I started reading, and the cover was gorgeous so that helped convince me that I’d love it as well.Elusion is both a mystery story and a sci-fi masterpiece, with dips and turns and constant action. The very idea of Elusion, a world that is perfect and beautiful, was a unique and fresh idea. The tone of the novel swings from enchanting and happy to morbid and dangerous, making for an emotional rollercoaster that will leave you breathless.Everything, even the science aspect, is explained crystal clear. There was no problem with being bored, because everything about this was interesting and intriguing. I can find no plot holes. It seems that for the most part, this story is as close to perfect as it can be.Regan has one main problem, the Elusion and how its faults are affecting people and two subplot sort of things — her life with her mom, who is struggling with the loss of her husband, and her choice between her two love interests. Does she choose the one that knows everything about her, that has been by her side for as long as she remembers? Or does she choose someone new that she wants to trust, someone she can’t help thinking is attractive in a different way? The love triangle is between Patrick (the first option), and Josh (the latter), and I must say that even though certain things happen, Patrick is still my favorite of the two.And the author leaves you at a cliffhanger — an extremely heart-wrenching, particularly exciting cliffhanger. I’m checking the pages as I go, thinking, why are there so little left? And then it ends, on the next page, and the rest are acknowledgments and such. It took so much willpower to not throw my nook at the wall, because this book comes out in 2014 which can only mean the sequel will come out in 2015. Might as well slip into a coma and wait it out, or else I’ll die with anticipation.In summary, this is a must-read for 2014. Pre-order it, get it on the release date, and read within a day. Those are the steps to success when it comes to Elusion. I’m so excited that I got the chance to read this and I’m so thankful to both authors for producing an effortless, amazing book.Notable Scene:I raise my head in awe as I watch the veil of white light float up from the ground like a fog and evaporate to reveal a glorious sapphire sky. Dad and I are perched on top of a rocky cliff, the remarkable landscape of Elusion stretched out in front of us. Down below there are miles and miles of dark green forest, but the view is so crisp I can almost see every leaf and needle jutting out from each spindling branch. Beyond in a chain of majestic mountains with snowcapped peaks, which borders a large body of water made up of shimmering swirls of turquoise and jade. Everything is traced with a translucent glittering substance, almost like fairy dust.It’s the most incredible sight I’ve ever seen. And although I’ve never been a fan of heights, here I am, standing at the edge of a steep embankment, feeling that sweet electricity being absorbed by all my never endings.FTC Advisory: Katherine Tegen Books/Harper Collins provided me with a copy of Elusion. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.

Alyssa

July 31, 2014

This review was posted HERE (on The Eater of Books! blog), as well as HERE (The YA Bookcase blog)***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***Elusion by Claudia Gabel and Cheryl KlamBook One of the Elusion seriesPublisher: Katherine Tegen BooksPublication Date: March 18, 2014Rating: 4 starsSource: eARC from EdelweissSummary (from Goodreads):Soon, Elusion® will change the world and life as we know it.A new technology called Elusion is sweeping the country. An app, visor and wristband will virtually transport you to an exotic destination where adventure can be pursued without the complications—or consequences—of real life.Regan is an Elusion insider. Or at least she used to be. Her father invented the program, and her best friend, Patrick, heir to the tech giant Orexis, is about to release it nationwide. But ever since her father’s unexpected death, Regan can’t bear to Escape, especially since waking up from the dream means crashing back to her grim reality.Still, when there are rumors of trouble in Elusion—accusations that it’s addictive and dangerous— Regan is determined to defend it. But the critics of Elusion come from surprising sources, including Josh, the handsome skeptic with his own personal stakes. As Regan investigates the claims, she discovers a disturbing web of secrets. She will soon have to choose between love and loyalty…a decision that will affect the lives of millions.Suspense, thrills, and romance fuel this near-future story about the seductive nature of a perfect virtual world, and how far one girl will go to uncover the truth behind the illusions.What I Liked:First, let us all take a really good look at that beautiful cover. Isn't it magnificent?! It has got to be one of my favorite Harper covers yet. Their design team is AMAZING, just saying. I marked this one as must-read when the cover was revealed only because of the cover. Then I read the synopsis, and I knew this book would be a winner for me. Lovely cover? Heavy on the science? Romance? Perfect for me.The wonderful thing about foresight is that, with books, it rarely lets me down! I really, really enjoyed this book! I mean, I was totally sucked in by the pretty cover, and then the intriguing synopsis, but the actual book itself was great.This book starts with a prologue that features Regan and her father testing out Elusion for the first time. When the story begins, with chapter one, we learn that Regan's father has been dead for months, and that Regan does not go to Elusion anymore. Regan's father protege (who is also Regan's friend) is now in charge of all things Elusion. This young man - Patrick - is responsible for the amazing escapist world that is Elusion - and the consequences of using Elusion. Elusion isn't what it seems. Certain things were set into motion before Regan's father died. Regan doesn't trust Patrick to tell her the trust, because when she asks, she gets nothing from him. All the while, innocent users of the Elusion program are losing brain activity, getting addicted, or even dying. There is something seriously wrong with Elusion, and Regan will be the one to find the truth.The plot moves fairly quickly in this book, once Regan realizes that there is a problem with Elusion. The beginning is a bit slow, but understandably so, because Gabel and Klam seem to want to show readers what this world is like when everyone is using Elusion. This made the beginning drag a little, but I suppose it was necessary, to show readers without telling readers how strange Elusion is, and how wrong it is.Let me put Elusion into perspective for you. It's a program that you can connect to, and escape the real world. Like, virtual reality, or an alternate experience, or something. People can plug in and visit Elusion at any point, but they have a time limit every time they go to Elusion. So, the first scene of the book describes the way people are - hundreds of people are plugged in to Elusion, and they seem zoned out like zombies.Gabel and Klam built up the plot (and climax) of the novel gradually, but for the most part, there was never a dull moment. I wouldn't say there were too many twists and turns and unexpected curveballs, but as I was reading, I was dying to see how things would be resolved. Would Regan find out the truth about her father's death? Was Patrick responsible for the addictions? Would Nora be found?The ending was a little messy, in my opinion, but after reading it twice, it made sense. I can't believe Gabel and Klam would end things the way they did! It's not a cliffhanger, but let's just say I need book two in my hands right about... now. Romance, did I mention anything about the romance? If you're like me (a hater of love triangles), put your mind at ease, because there isn't one (that I can see). I thought there would be one, as there is definitely potential for one, but I don't see the romance going in that direction. Regan and the male protagonist are together, and that doesn't seem like it will change. That being said, I like the romance! I like Regan and this male protagonist together. I won't say who it is though, so as not to spoil things.At first, I wasn't really connecting with Regan, but eventually I started to connect and really like her. Her character is a little flat, in my opinion, but there are times when she has depth to her. I just wish there was more to her that made her more unique.I mentioned this briefly, but this book is has a heavy science basis - which I loved! This book deals with brain chemistry and neuroscience and addictions... I really enjoyed seeing so much science in the book. There was also a good amount of technology and computer science, which was cool. The math/science nerd in me approves! Overall, this is a highly enjoyable debut novel for these two authors (debut for the two paired; I know both authors have books out). It's not action-packed and extremely exciting, but the story is very interesting and the concept is relevant to today's society.What I Did Not Like:There was nothing specific that I didn't like - maybe a few pacing issues here and there. Sometimes, the plot dragged, other times, things were happening way too quickly. Like, at the very end, I had a hard time picking out what exactly was going on. I read the ending twice though, so I understood eventually.In general, I didn't have any problems with this book. I just wouldn't consider it a five-star read from ME, because it doesn't feel like a five-star novel. It's not a new favorite, but I am very happy with this book. I will definitely be reading the sequel!Would I Recommend It:Yesyesyes! I'm sure the pretty cover will attract many readers (just stare at it for a few seconds. It's hypnotizing, isn't it?!). BUT, the content is just as amazing as the cover. I'm quite sure that science-y people like me will be all over this one, and even if you're not a science-y person, the concept will intrigue you. And the cover is gorgeous. Did I mention that already?Rating:4 stars. I really enjoyed this book! The science really appealed to my nerdy math/science side. Bring on book two!

Jenny

March 29, 2014

Elusion is one of those stories where the line between reality and illusion starts out crisp and oh-so clear, but with each chapter our faith in what we think we know gets a little more shaken until suddenly the trust we had in ourselves and the characters is nearly nonexistent. The deterioration of that trust is what makes Elusion such a fascinating read, the solid foundation we had beneath our feet in the opening chapters crumbling beneath us just as Regan’s world falls apart around her, and together we start questioning everything and everyone....Full review available at: http://supernaturalsnark.blogspot.com...

Kelsey

July 14, 2015

This was exactly what I wanted to read. A great and exciting futuristic story that'll leave you wanting more.

Completely Melanie

January 05, 2020

I was so pleasantly surprised by this book. It was a random find on Book Outlet that I was drawn to by the pretty cover. I really enjoyed this. If you like the virtual reality aspect of Ready Player One or Warcross, then I think you would enjoy this book. It isn't centered around a game like those, but virtual escapes that some people believe may be dangerous and addictive especially when teenagers start going into comas after spending too much time in this virtual world.

Jessica (BookRockGoddess)

April 09, 2017

Elusion is full of technology, suspense and a slight love triangle. I felt it took a little bit to get going but once it did you are on the edge of your sit trying to figure out what is true. I was so confused on what was the truth and what wasn't. This book really hits home for today's society with virtual reality and addiction issues for people who want to escape reality.Elusion really takes all these concepts to a new level. Just once you think you have things figured out it turns it on its head. With the way this ended with a cliffhanger, I need the next book like yesterday.

Rebecca

March 17, 2014

This review is also on my blog, The Library Canary.***I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This has in no way changed my opinion of the book. The review below is my open and honest opinion.*** First of all, this cover! Gorgeous isn’t it? I’m not going to lie; it’s what first drew me to this one. But this book is more than just a pretty cover. The story was intricate and filled with a massive mystery that I was completely unable to figure out.The main character Regan’s father is the inventor of Elusion. But after he dies, Regan withdraws and is unable to use the program because it brings back painful memories. But when people start attacking his work, Regan wakes up. She won’t stand for that. She was fierce and I loved that she wanted to defend her father’s and family’s honor. It’s what I would have done in her situation. I didn’t have a close connection with Regan, but I did like her as a character. She was willing to (reluctantly) admit when she was wrong although at times she definitely had blinders on to avoid seeing what was going on around her.The romance was okay. I didn’t not like it, but I wasn’t swooning over the guy or anything. I thought it was sweet, but there were a few times when it felt a little cheesy. But I was more interested in the other things that were going on in the book so it didn’t really bother me.The technology and all the tech talk in this book were pretty cool. Not that I understood most of it because I am certainly not a coder nor am I a science person, but I found it so interesting to read about and the authors introduced it in such a way that it wasn’t boring and it was also pretty easy to follow. I loved learning about the Elusion program, how it worked and how her father created it. It was the perfect amount of detail. I never found it overwhelming, but it also gave the story real believability.What I really loved about this book though was the fact that it kept me guessing the whole time. I had no idea who to believe or who to trust and I LOVED that. It kept me turning the pages, anxiously trying to figure out the truth. I haven’t read a book that had me in the dark (in a good way) as much as this one did in so long. It was refreshing to NOT be able to figure it out until the very end when it was being told to you.This book was a quick read that I couldn’t put down. I HAD to keep reading to figure out what was really going on. The world-building was great and the characters were pretty good as well. If you like technology or books that can keep you guessing, Elusion is definitely for you! Happy reading all!

Hannah

March 10, 2014

I first heard about ELUSION back in September of 2012 when I heard Claudia Gabel speak at the Baltimore Book Festival. I remember jotting down her book and making a mental note to research it later on because 1) the book sounded cool and 2) Claudia was a total sweetie. Having met Cheryl Klam a few months ago, I can honestly say awesomeness attracts awesomeness and that's why this pairing works well as a writing team. Let's first talk about our narrator, Regan, who is strong, spunky, and fun in all the right ways. She knows her mind and goes for what she wants. Sometimes to her detriment, but it makes her such a great character to sink into and follow. She is the heart and soul of this story, working tirelessly to unravel the mysteries surrounding Elusion®.The world building is mind-blowing. I am SciFi stupid, people. Even with a diagram, I am usually hopelessly lost, but Gabel and Klam brought out a vivid, exciting world where anything was possible. Admittedly it took me a few chapters to understand some of the futuristic jargon, which made me desperate for a glossary, but after awhile I became acclimated with the words and if I can do it, anyone can.ELUSION is a great read for science fiction fans. Gabel and Klam definitely left me craving more with that ending (that ending!). I cannot wait to see what these two come up with next!

Kathryn

June 16, 2022

Lately some of the stories I have been reading have been giving me movie vibes. Like, I have seen this movie before, but the storyline is different. I will compare this to The Maze Runner because that is what I got when Regan finds out about the alternate reality that her dad has been working on and has lost his life building. Her friend Patrick has taken over the building of the newest version of Elusion, the app that will transport you to any exotic location you desire. This is an extremely fast paced story, I finished it just a little over four hours. If you are looking for a futuristic, young adult, soft on the romance story, this one will work for you.

Jessica

June 16, 2014

You all know me, if a book is hugely polarized in the blogger world I have to read it. When there's so much hate spewed against it on one side, and so much love on the other side, I must figure out which side I fall on. I had absolutely no expectations one way or the other when I picked up Elusion from the library. I just wanted to give this book a shot and, you know what? I actually really liked this. Regan lives in a world that is a shattered version of our own. Acid rain falls from the sky, black poisonous clouds hover overhead, and an O2 shield is pretty much necessary most days if you don't want to choke to death on the chemicals floating in the atmosphere. Nature as we know it is gone. So how do people get away from their problems? An Escape. An Elusion. Before he mysteriously died, Regan's father invented this amazing way to take a "trip" to somewhere new. Sounds amazing, right? Or is it? I have to say, I was impressed with the world that was built around Regan. Although it wasn't flat out explained, it was immersive enough that I didn't even question it. I was lost in the desolation around these people, and the fact that they just ignored it all. I'm a sucker for new technology, and Elusion was amazing to me. Imagine a way to travel to somewhere new, to somewhere that hasn't existed in years, in complete safety. Of course that kind of technology always comes with its fair share of flaws. This one was no exception. There was nothing I could do but hold on as Regan flew through one part of the mystery after another, uncovering all the dirty laundry that her father's company was trying to hide. Once again I'll admit, it wasn't exactly a perfectly plausible story line. Still, this was a new world. It was a vividly built world, and I was willing to forgive a lot simply because I couldn't help but feel caught up in it all. I wanted to know what Orexis was hiding, and you couldn't have stopped me if you tried. The absolute only thing that slightly irked me was the quasi-romance that Elusion brings to the table. Regan was such a strong character. She fought for what she believed in, and never gave up no matter how many people tried to break her down. Seeing her loose it over a guy she just met, no matter how handsome he was, bothered me. I can't deny it. It also made for an ending that, although the cliffhanger is killer, was rushed as well. Still, I know I'll be back for more. This series has hooked me. You can mark me solidly on the "I liked this" side of the Elusion camp, and I'm proud of it.

Rabiah

January 01, 2015

**3.5/4 stars**Originally posted at: http://iliveforreading.blogspot.com/2...I’d often wondered how cool it would be to have a device that conjures up a simulation and would place you in it... well there goes that dream! I’m too freaked out now by what could possibly happen if such a thing is invented. Elusion was a unique concept, and I really enjoyed reading about this new world. I must admit that I haven’t read any books by Gabel or Klam before, but their collaboration is amazing.However, what I didn’t enjoy about the book was it’s love triangle. I felt it was too messy, I didn’t take a particular liking to either Patrick or Josh, so basically I didn’t really care too much about who she ends up with. Hopefully it becomes a lot tighter in the second book, Etherworld, and I’m looking forward to the romantic development in particular. While I did like Regan’s character, I felt like she was kind of... two-dimensional. Don’t get me wrong: her character’s emotions are spot-on, especially concerning her father, but she doesn’t stick out in any particular way.I also thought that the world-building could have been a little better. There are barely any explanations or background information about how the world came to be like this, and why Elusion was created and how far into the future this was set in. Hopefully (as the main plot has been established) the sequel will provide more information because sometimes I was left a little clueless about what’s going on, or had to skim over bits trying to grasp what’s going on.Elusion, despite my few issues with it, had an original concept and fantastic ending that left me hungry for more. A fast-paced and entrancing read, I’m eagerly anticipating more from Gabel and Klam.▪ ▪ ▪ Thank you so much to Megan from HarperCollins International for sending a copy for review! ▪ ▪ ▪

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