Title: Masks
Author: Karen Chance
First published March 18, 2014
406 pages, Kindle Edition
Rating: 3.98
Overview
In modern-day New Orleans, the vampire underworld thrives in secrecy, where the masterless roam free without fear of punishment. For fledgling vampire, Leila, the city is both a playground and a death trap.
She quickly learns that survival means navigating the dangerous politics of the supernatural community. But there are opportunities to be had, too – in the service of a mysterious voodoo priestess, in the arms of a seductive werewolf, and in the hunt for a deadly killer.
As Leila becomes embroiled in a centuries-old feud, she must confront the demons of her past, navigate the treacherous waters of New Orleans society, and uncover the truth hidden behind a city of masks…
About the Author
Karen Chance has written two popular series that have made it to the New York Times bestseller list. Her stories are all set in the world of Cassandra Palmer, and she has also written many novellas and short stories.
Karen has been a full-time writer since 2008, but prior to that, she was a history teacher at a university. This experience has helped her with the time-travel aspect of her writing.
Karen has a fondness for Las Vegas, which is the main location for her novels, but she currently resides in Florida near her family home. To learn more about Karen and her work, you can visit her website or connect with her on Facebook.
Editoral Review
Karen Chance’s novel Masks, first published in March 2014, is a thrilling addition to the urban fantasy genre. Known for her intricate and immersive world-building, Chance brings readers into a world where magic and the supernatural are real and dangerous forces to be reckoned with.
In Masks, readers follow the story of Dr. Zoe Luce, who has the unique ability to see ghosts. As a result, she is sought after by the supernatural community, particularly a group of vampires who believe she can help them solve a series of brutal murders.
But as Zoe delves deeper into the investigation, she discovers a web of lies and conspiracies that threaten to unravel the delicate balance between the supernatural and human worlds. Chance’s writing style is engrossing, with vivid descriptions of New Orleans that bring the city to life on the page.
The book’s themes of power, trust, and betrayal are skillfully woven into the plot, creating a narrative that is both thrilling and thought-provoking. The characters in Masks are also a highlight of the novel.
Zoe is a relatable and dynamic protagonist, grappling with her own past traumas while trying to navigate a dangerous supernatural world. The supporting cast, particularly the vampires Louis-Cesare and Goliath, are also well-developed and add depth to the story.
However, Masks does have its limitations. The pacing in the first few chapters can be slow, and some readers may find themselves struggling to fully engage with the story until the plot picks up.
Additionally, the novel’s heavy reliance on supernatural lore and terminology may be a bit overwhelming for readers new to the urban fantasy genre. Despite these flaws, Masks is an exciting and well-crafted novel that will appeal to fans of urban fantasy and supernatural thrillers.
Chance’s world-building and character development are top-notch, and the book’s themes and conflicts will resonate with readers long after they’ve finished the final page. Overall, Masks is a standout addition to Karen Chance’s impressive body of work, and is a must-read for anyone looking for an immersive and gripping supernatural tale.
The Washington Post gives Masks a solid four out of five stars, praising the novel for its stylish and sophisticated storytelling, while acknowledging its minor flaws.
