The Villains Mask

Vanished #0.5

by D.J. Maughan

Andras has a failing business. Should he close the doors? Or accept the repulsive offer he's been given?

After several months of operating his new restaurant, Andras needs more cash. He realizes he has nowhere else to turn when his loan application is denied. Desperate to keep his dream alive, he entertains a proposal that would normally disgust him.

Will he lose everything and walk away? Or will he wander down a dangerous path?

31 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 15, 2023

Reviews

[Matt · Rating 4 out of 5]

The novella gives us some back story on Andras and how he got completely wrapped up on the business that is going during Vanished From Budapest.

A quick, fun little read that enhances the Vanished series!

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a tense, thought-provoking thriller that explores the murky territory between desperation and morality. The story unfolds with gripping momentum, examining how far one might go to keep a dream alive when all else fails.

With crisp prose and steadily mounting tension, Maughan crafts a tale that is both emotionally resonant and ethically unsettling. The central dilemma is as haunting as it is believable, raising powerful questions about compromise and identity.

A compelling and unforgettable read!

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this one before I dove in to the series and I'm so glad I did it that way! This gives us the back story for Andras and how he was convinced to start trafficking women under the guise of his restaurant. It really shows us how far will someone go to make money and provide for their family. This also gives us the back story for the rest of the Vanished series and I love having this knowledge as I head into them! I highly recommend this quick short read to give you the insight on how everything begins!

[Amy Brannock · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am usually a fan of DJ's books. This one I listened to and it was hard to understand. Even my little guy piped up from the back seat of the car, "How do people understand this Spanish?" LOL! I thought the story did not fully evolve from beginning to end. I'm going to move on to book 1 and see if it comes together.

[Marci Simmons · Rating 4 out of 5]

D.J Maugham wrote a great quick read to start us off to Vanished from Budapest! I can’t wait to read the next one and see what happens next! The Villians Mask was filled full doubt, worry, and suspense and made this book move amazingly quick! Highly suggest can’t wait to read the others!

[Kayla Wiklanski · Rating 5 out of 5]

This short story has me needing to dive into the Peter Andrassy series. I found myself not liking Andras. He is a pompous jerk! ugh! The story does have you question what would you be willing to do for the money you need?

[Najwa Hirn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

This was an Excellent story. The writer succeeded in creating an intense mystery that kept moving. Hard to put this down and looking forward to reading the series.

[kayla Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this in 25 mins and instantly added the rest of the series to my kindle!!! I NEED more now.

[Frannie Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a VERY short story giving a bit more information about the background of Andras. It's definitely worth reading before Chasing The Wicked!

[Kari Bowman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great short story

I really enjoyed this short story. Well written and exciting. I can't wait to start the series that this is the prequel for.

[Natasha Stills · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book left me intrigued enough to start the Vanished series. Another great read by D.J.

[Breanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just starting the Vanished series and this short intro worked perfectly as a prologue...I’m intrigued to see where the story goes.

[Maxine Burns · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a terrific prelude to a great series. It was a great read! Even if you've already read D.J. Maughan's "Vanished" series, it is still worth reading the backdrop to it!