Three Illusions

By J J Arcanian

Someone once suggested that Dylan Maxwell was devoid of malice. Somehow, he saw clearly what others could not. Dylan may have preferred to meld into the background and observe, but the young man stood out in the crowd. Early in his life, he concluded that some people should be more knowledgeable about matters of consequence; they should have paid more attention.

Then, during his first week in college, tragedy struck off the shores of Boston. Afterward, all that remained was Dylan's older, drug-addled brother, Joe, and their significant inheritance. Several years later, in Queens, NY, Dylan's real estate and development business flourished while Joe succumbed to addiction outside of Philadelphia, PA.

As Dylan secures a construction project near the shores of Lake Michigan, he becomes romantically involved with Lizzie Stallings, his new client from Grand Rapids. Meanwhile, his agreement to contribute articles for a college buddy's left-leaning publication backfires; his "freebie favor" results in praise and wrath. In "Plato the Dialectician," Dylan challenges religious dogma, and all hell breaks loose; a bomb explodes in Queens, an armed protest is staged in Michigan, and the Queens Democratic Party tries to persuade Dylan to run for political office.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1783243252
• ISBN13: 9781783243259
• Release Date: August 2024
• Publisher: Wordzworth Publishing
• Length: 348 Pages
• Weight: 0.89 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.5" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

Thoughtful and relevant first book

*Three Illusions: A Novel* by J.J. Arcanian is a thought-provoking and engaging exploration of identity, morality, and the complexities of modern life. The protagonist, Dylan Maxwell, is a unique and compelling character, with a sharp mind and a deep sense of awareness about the world around him. His journey from the aftermath of a family tragedy to building a successful business and navigating personal and political challenges is rich with emotional depth and philosophical insight. Arcanian's writing skillfully weaves together elements of suspense, social commentary, and character development. The novel addresses important themes such as the consequences of unchecked ambition, the clash between intellectual curiosity and societal norms, and the personal sacrifices one makes in pursuit of success. The author's exploration of Dylan's relationship with his drug-addled brother Joe adds an emotional layer to the narrative, highlighting the tension between family loyalty and personal growth. The novel’s plot is fast-paced and unpredictable, with powerful moments of social and political conflict that keep the reader hooked. Dylan's involvement in the controversial article about religious dogma and the subsequent chaos brings a fresh, intense energy to the story. The tension between his professional success and the moral questions he grapples with makes *Three Illusions* a book that invites readers to reflect on their own beliefs and values. Overall, *Three Illusions* is an intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant novel that will resonate with readers who enjoy complex characters, moral dilemmas, and thought-provoking social commentary.