Houdini's Last Illusion

by Steven Savile

1st edition trade paperback, fine (as new) as new

Genres: Fantasy

79 pages, Paperback

First published August 25, 2004

About the author

Steven Savile (born October 12, 1969, in Newcastle, England) is a British fantasy, horror and thriller writer, and editor living in Sala, Sweden.

Under the Ronan Frost penname (inspired by the hero of his bestselling novel, Silver) he has also written the action thriller White Peak, and as Matt Langley was a finalist for the People's Book Prize.

Reviews

[Mirren Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

My mind is the key to set me free.

Harry Houdini is growing old and tired. His fans demand more and more of him. He feels he is nearing his end. Old compatriots begin to appear. A trick of the mind? Or are those who have pre-deceased him, here to warn him or even harm him? The great illusionist is haunted by his fears, and yet he has lived his life and had great success by manipulating minds. He knows his own mind is the key to setting himself free of the final constraint that faces every man. The greatest illusion of all will be his swansong.

A quirky tale, something quite different and even mesmerising. Very visual in its descriptions. Steve Savile who has experienced success more in the worlds of fantasy, horror and sci-fi has produced a quietly satisfying read in this novella. It wouldn’t have been a typical choice for me. But then – the mind can set you free – if you let it. (Mirre3n)

[Andrew · Rating 3 out of 5]

This novella is an entertaining fictional account of Houdini's last days and manages to pack a lot into a few pages. Saville's prose is direct and without much embellishment so the story rocks along, although he can also do pretty descriptive when necessary. There's a little confusion to be had - Houdini's surprise at meeting dead magicians and the necessity of misdirection in a crucial scene seems at odds with his ability at the start of the book to do genuine magic - but overall it's worth the ride.

[Jaq Greenspon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not a bad little story but man it could have used an editor.

[Jeri Stallard · Rating 3 out of 5]

I actually would give this book a 3 1/2 love the twist at the end. Just wish it was longer.