The latest Jaya Jones Treasure Hunt Mystery, The Ninja’s Illusion, takes Gigi Pandian’s historian to Japan. It’s another whirlwind adventure for the historian who specializes in the East India trading companies.

Her recent adventures in Italy are not enough to keep Jaya from traveling to Japan where her best friend, Sanjay, The Hindi Houdini, is scheduled to appear with another magician. But, Sanjay asks her not to come, and he sounds worried when he calls. That’s one more reason for Jaya to show up in Japan. She already has plans to contact another historian, a man who sent her an intriguing question about a Dutch sailing ship from the 1700s. Now, she has to check out her friend.

Sanjay’s worries all surround his upcoming appearance with an illusionist who claims to know the world’s most famous trick, the Indian Rope Trick. There’s sabotage, murder, and suspicion. Even a body disappears, and suspicions surround a mysterious ninja that seems to follow Jaya and Sanjay. And, before the case of misdirection can be wrapped up, Jaya has to resolve the case of misdirection of her own heart. Which man does she love, Lane Peters, or her best friend, Sanjay?

Romance, history, an unknown treasure, and magic. Those elements, all wrapped around the exotic mythology and history of Japan, add to the fast-paced excitement and adventure of The Ninja’s Illusion. I’ve said before that Pandian’s Jaya Jones Treasure Hunt Mysteries remind me of Elizabeth Peters’ Vicky Bliss stories. Fans of that series, and young adults who crave exotic adventure stories, should enjoy this latest mystery.

Gigi Pandian’s website is www.gigipandian.com

The Ninja’s Illusion by Gigi Pandian. Henery Press. 2017. ISBN 9781635112542 (hardcover), 288p.

*****
FTC Full Disclosure – The author sent me a copy of the book, hoping I would review it.