Masque of the Red Death (Masque of the Red Death, #1)

by Bethany Griffin

[Angie]

Sadly, I liked the idea of Masque of the Red Death a lot better than actually reading it. The plague has swept through the world, and those who are left must wear masks to filter out the contagion. There are daily corpse collectors, and it's legal to kill those who are infected but haven't died. It's a dark, dank, sad world. So what's there to do but party?! Araby and her friend April frequent the Debauchery District, which is exactly what the name suggests. But then April goes missing, and Araby gets involved in a plan for rebellion, at least until the Red Death strikes and no one is safe.

I loved the world of Masque of the Red Death. It's totally depressing and disturbing, but it was interesting. It takes our germaphobic society to whole new level. Araby will not touch anyone! Part of this is due to the disease, but she also denies herself any happiness since her twin died and he won't be able to experience it. But to me, it's probably better that he doesn't have to suffer in this world like Araby does! The world isn't all bad though. There's some fun inventions, like steam coaches and airships. Araby also partakes in drugs, which was interesting and unexpected.

However, the plot of Masque of the Red Death was boring. First, April disappears and I assumed that would be the focus, since she has a crazy uncle, who also happens to be the Prince and sole ruler of whatever city this is set in. But then she turns up and acts like nothing happened, and no one wonders where she was. Then I thought there would be exciting rebellion building stuff, since Elliot--who is April's brother--recruits Araby to his cause. Well, there kind of was, but mostly not. I really have no idea where this story was going, and I'm not sure if I'll read the conclusion.

Masque of the Red Death also has romance! It's a kind of love triangle, but not really, but sorta. I don't know. Araby has that whole no touching rule and no kissing or boyfriends, so that makes it kind of hard to start a romance. There's Elliot, but they're more fake dating for his crazy uncle's benefit, but he likes her, and maybe she likes him. I don't know. She definitely likes Will though, and I like Will, so I'm on his team. Even after what he does at the end, because I totally get it. He did what needs to be done, and I'm sure he'll make up for it. Not that I'm likely to find out though.

So, basically Masque of the Red Death didn't do it for me. This alternate history, dystopian society was pretty great. I just have no clue where it's set. Somewhere in Europe, I'm assuming, but it was only ever referred to as "the city." Not helpful. The romance was interesting, since Araby has feelings but doesn't let herself act on them, which is different than most love triangles where there's lots of kissing of both objects of affection. I just wish the plot had engaged me more. For the most part I was just reading to get done.

Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.