Illyia is the second episode of The Feigned Moon of Entiria Epic Serial series written by E. A. Bagby. After the events of the first episode, eighteen-year-old Geils Deo continues his preparation to become the Lead Storyteller of his tribe. But he finds himself hitting a roadblock when he messes up his trials. Meanwhile, his friend Erikal works toward building an advanced cab based on the designs he learned on his computer. As his friends insist upon revisiting the Underworld, Geils finds himself plagued by visions encouraging him to do the same. Jealous of Erikal's ascension to Lead Shaman and discouraged by his own efforts at becoming the Lead Storyteller, Geils reluctantly agrees to accompany his friends on the adventure once again. However, unbeknownst to them, the Council of Elders follow their every move.

E. A. Bagby's young adult epic adventure tale is filled with magic and creative worldbuilding, providing readers with a sense of wonder and awe. Due to the episodic nature of The Feigned Moon of Entiria Epic Serial series, Illyia functions seamlessly as a standalone and a sequel. Geils is a compelling protagonist, prone to pangs of jealousy and envy, but ultimately someone who chooses to do the right thing. The rest of the core five friends -- Erikal, Cleo, Meritus, and Alana -- felt well-realized with distinct personalities. The narrative is well-paced, and author E. A. Bagby does a commendable job of acclimatizing the reader with the world promptly. If you're into young adult epic adventure stories, you won't regret diving into The Feigned Moon of Entiria Epic Serial series.

Illyia (The Feigned Moon of Entiria Epic Serial Episode 2) by E. A. Bagby is an enthralling science fiction adventure that features gods, humans, and a world filled with mystery. Giels craves one thing in his life, to follow in his mother’s footsteps as the famed storyteller of his tribe. After coerced to go on a dangerous adventure, he is back home, but his friends are not who they pretend to be. While he must win the approval of the council regarding the deepest desire of his heart, the gods are not yet done with him as they ensnare him in the darkness of Illyia. Can he survive the ordeals that lie ahead in a world filled with riddles, dangers, and unwelcoming creatures?

There is a lot to enjoy in this second episode of The Feigned Moon of Entiria Epic Serial, including the crisp and enticing prose, the character depth, and the twisty nature of the plot. The internal conflict is wonderfully written and when the reader meets Giels, he is a broken man, awakening to many revelations. For instance, he learns that Erikal has manipulated him into this dangerous life-or-death adventure and that his suspicions about losing the woman he loves, Cleo, have been unfounded. The descriptions are terrific, especially the otherworldly Maze of Azer and what it represents for the protagonist. Readers will also enjoy the plot elements and the place the storytelling tradition holds in the life of Deo. The author uses legendary tales to enrich the plot, weaving stories like The Journey of Salihandron to give perspective to the plot. This entry into the series has great world-building, fascinating characters, and a plot that transforms the story into a page-turner.