Reviewed by reveriesociety_ on
In a world where book blurbs tend to be effectively deceiving, a book that actually delivers what the blurb promises is rare. These Vicious Masks is one of those lucky guys. I couldn’t agree more with it being considered at mix between Jane Austen and X-Men. Actually, the description is spot-on.
SOME THINGS I LOVED
The Heroine
The story introduces us to Evelyn, who is a witty brat, and she deserves all the love! Seriously, take notes everyone. Although she comes off as frustrating a lot of times, my favorite trait of hers is how she just refuses to give up even when she has two guys that are falling over themselves to do the work for her (for varying reasons).
In some cases, this really annoyed me because she was stupidly throwing herself into dangerous situations. Although, on the other side, I kind of understand why she did it. Her parents had stopped supporting her. Her sister’s reputation and hers in line. Two men who aren’t entirely trustworthy. I guess I could easily see myself saying ‘consequences be dammed, I gotta find my sister’ in her position.
The Backdrop
Victorian London. Not a fun place to live in if you have problems with following society’s rules. Regardless, the entire thing was so well-written in this aspect that I almost forgot I do not like Victorian London. From how the characters spoke, to of what they spoke and place description.
In addition, it’s amazing how the supernatural element is woven in without representing a whole other aspect. It’s all part of the setting.
WHAT I DIDN’T LOVE AS MUCH
Romance? Or the Lack of Romance?
This isn’t normally a problem. I do like romance in my books, but if there isn’t any, well, I won’t throw a fit because of it. But it is a problem if there are too many things pointing at the existence of significant romance, and then being disappointed.
The synopsis doesn’t state that Evelyn might end up with someone, but I kind of feel deceived by the story itself. I'm not saying I make any sense, but it still didn't sit right with me, that there wasn't any closure on this matter.
Even if she didn't end up with anyone (hey, that is totally cool too!), some closure about her thoughts on her feelings would've been great.
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Reading updates
- Started reading
- 25 December, 2015: Finished reading
- 25 December, 2015: Reviewed