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Masquerade
Behind the Mask
The Downe's Valentine's Day Masquerade Ball has been an annual event for over a hundred years and where, four years ago, Gabe met Mike.It's been over six months since Mike's death and Mike thinks that Gabe is ready to move on. How does Gabe know this? He receives a letter and a ticket to the ball, from Mike. Gabe isn't sure he'll ever be ready to move on, but in deference to Mike's memory, he attends the ball.What Gabe doesn't know, is that his best friend, Tom, the one constant in his life since college, has also received a letter from Mike. Will Gabe be able to move forward and remember a long forgotten love, or will his world come crumbling down around his ears, again?
109 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2012
3 people are currently reading
102 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Worrall
72 books414 followersI live in Leigh on Sea, a small seaside town just outside London on the coast of Essex, about ten minutes from Southend, which boasts the longest pier in the world. I live with my husband and two ever-growing children, who I let think are the boss of me; along with two dogs who actually are.
As the wonderful Beatrix Potter said, “There is something delicious about writing the first words of a new story. You never quite know where they’ll take you.” I know exactly what she means.
As the wonderful Beatrix Potter said, “There is something delicious about writing the first words of a new story. You never quite know where they’ll take you.” I know exactly what she means.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
February 4, 2012
3.5 stars
Warning: flashback writings -- I know some readers do not like it ...
Tell me if you recognize this plot: A man who has loved his friend for years but too scared to say anything. This man surrenders as being the 'best friend' and the rock that his friend needs, especially when the friend loses his partner. Then, when he finally makes a move and tells his friend about how he feels, his friend is confused and angry. So this man is ready to leave because he just cannot deal with being just "a friend" anymore ...
Yep, nothing really new there, right? But come on, cliché can be good :). If not, why do we go back to romance each and every time?
I admit the flashbacks bother me a bit, because switching from 2007 and 2011 events make me have to switch focus too. But at the same time, it gives a more rounded information about what both Gabe and Tom feel about each other, and why they end up at their current situation. I think those two letters that Mike wrote for both Gabe and Tom are beautiful and touching. Those scenes make me all teary-eyed. I love how Gabe confronts Tom in the end, when Tom is ready to pack to New York City -- it's definitely lead on to some hot lovemaking, rather than Gabe approaching it nicely ^_^.
So yeah, I enjoy this one ...
Warning: flashback writings -- I know some readers do not like it ...
Tell me if you recognize this plot: A man who has loved his friend for years but too scared to say anything. This man surrenders as being the 'best friend' and the rock that his friend needs, especially when the friend loses his partner. Then, when he finally makes a move and tells his friend about how he feels, his friend is confused and angry. So this man is ready to leave because he just cannot deal with being just "a friend" anymore ...
Yep, nothing really new there, right? But come on, cliché can be good :). If not, why do we go back to romance each and every time?
I admit the flashbacks bother me a bit, because switching from 2007 and 2011 events make me have to switch focus too. But at the same time, it gives a more rounded information about what both Gabe and Tom feel about each other, and why they end up at their current situation. I think those two letters that Mike wrote for both Gabe and Tom are beautiful and touching. Those scenes make me all teary-eyed. I love how Gabe confronts Tom in the end, when Tom is ready to pack to New York City -- it's definitely lead on to some hot lovemaking, rather than Gabe approaching it nicely ^_^.
So yeah, I enjoy this one ...
September 27, 2013
Loved this one from Lisa...Yes, you knew what was going to happen (or hoped you did) and a few slaps here and there wouldn't have gone amiss, but did I get my HEA.....read it and find out.
April 2, 2012
Four years ago, Tom asked his friend Gabe to go to the annual Downe's Masquerade Ball. He planned to share with him how he felt, how their friendship was special and how he wanted it to be more.
But, as fate sometimes does, there was another man there - Mike - who swooped in and captured Gabe's attention before Tom made his move.
And now, four-and-a-half years later, it's time for the ball again. Mike is dead. Gabe is heartbroken. And Tom still loves him.
Each man, unknown to the other, receives a final gift in the mail from Mike. For both, it's a second chance. And it will take place, once more, at the Ball.
Will the two men finally find their way together? Or will Mike's final act of love be in vain?
This fine and understated story is so utterly simple, so devastatingly heartbreaking, and so full of hope, all at the same time. Lisa Worrall does what she does so damned well - gives us terrific characters in love. Wonderful men who have broken hearts, who need each other. And a beautifully told story that grabs my heart and pulls me in from the first page.
This story is so lightly woven, it's almost easy to underestimate the deftness necessary to pull it off. It could have very easily gone over the top, became histrionic, shrill or boring. But it stays on that fine line of simplicity, truth and love.
Thank God. Ms. Worrall always leaves me satisfied and filled with warmth for her men.
Great. Just...great.
Tom
But, as fate sometimes does, there was another man there - Mike - who swooped in and captured Gabe's attention before Tom made his move.
And now, four-and-a-half years later, it's time for the ball again. Mike is dead. Gabe is heartbroken. And Tom still loves him.
Each man, unknown to the other, receives a final gift in the mail from Mike. For both, it's a second chance. And it will take place, once more, at the Ball.
Will the two men finally find their way together? Or will Mike's final act of love be in vain?
This fine and understated story is so utterly simple, so devastatingly heartbreaking, and so full of hope, all at the same time. Lisa Worrall does what she does so damned well - gives us terrific characters in love. Wonderful men who have broken hearts, who need each other. And a beautifully told story that grabs my heart and pulls me in from the first page.
This story is so lightly woven, it's almost easy to underestimate the deftness necessary to pull it off. It could have very easily gone over the top, became histrionic, shrill or boring. But it stays on that fine line of simplicity, truth and love.
Thank God. Ms. Worrall always leaves me satisfied and filled with warmth for her men.
Great. Just...great.
Tom
February 4, 2012
3.5 stars
Behind the Mask is a really nice story about love, loss and being able to fall in love again but the switching between different POVs and different times made it a bit confusing. Another thing that could've been fixed by a better editor was the slightly cheesy writing style but all-in-all, I enjoyed the story and Mike's letter to his lover moved me to tears.
Behind the Mask is a really nice story about love, loss and being able to fall in love again but the switching between different POVs and different times made it a bit confusing. Another thing that could've been fixed by a better editor was the slightly cheesy writing style but all-in-all, I enjoyed the story and Mike's letter to his lover moved me to tears.
April 1, 2012
3.5*
A bit like the movie, PS I love you, the wink the author gave to the movie was good!
But I liked this book better than the movie, I did think Tom and Gabe could have/should have gotten their act together sooner, 7 years is a long time.
But Mike, bless him, helped!
A bit like the movie, PS I love you, the wink the author gave to the movie was good!
But I liked this book better than the movie, I did think Tom and Gabe could have/should have gotten their act together sooner, 7 years is a long time.
But Mike, bless him, helped!
April 23, 2013
I actually liked this one a lot more than I thought I would. It's got lots of great stuff - Regency stuff, modern day stuff, friend-zone stuff (cool cuz I've never seen it before), profound stuff, touching stuff, stuff that made me go O: and stuff
That being said, it wasn't bad, I guess.
That being said, it wasn't bad, I guess.
August 27, 2013
Behind the Mask was, essentially, about what a difference 4 years can make in the lives of two men, Gabe and Tom. It's also about missing an opportunity, and gaining a second chance, as it were. All written very sweetly, very romantically and very engagingly by Lisa Worrall. No real review, just some points.
What I liked -
The premise and execution of the story itself.
The recollections, the descriptions of Downe Hall, the clothing, and the period detail of the original Valentine's Day Masquerade Ball - home, costuming; Brocade jackets and all.
The protagonists, Gabe, his best friend Tom and Gabe's sister, Sarah, were all nice characters.
Mike's 2 letters to both MC's.The notes were really gorgeous and funny. I kept seeing/picturing Stephen Fry when Mike's notes were read, and when Mike was referred to by either Gabe or Tom.
While it does float between the Masquerade Ball of 2007 and the Masquerade Ball of 2011, it was well done. If the idea of flashback's bother you in your reading ordinarily, don't let it be of concern here, because it does not detract from the read whatsoever, it just adds to the story's ambiance.
I'm also really rather into a character that is just passing though, finding love for a short while, and creating a conduit for others in doing so. I somehow always seem to find that beautiful, albeit sad at times.
Behind The Mask was a sweet, short read, with charming characters, delightful descriptions of the Masquerade Ball and plenty of British humour and vernacular - bollocks and pillock included. Plus, whilst the sex is minimalist, it's just right as it's intended to be more of a romantic story, HEA included. I would recommend it for those looking for a sweeter M/M romance.
http://ontopdownunderbookreviews.com/...
What I liked -
The premise and execution of the story itself.
The recollections, the descriptions of Downe Hall, the clothing, and the period detail of the original Valentine's Day Masquerade Ball - home, costuming; Brocade jackets and all.
The protagonists, Gabe, his best friend Tom and Gabe's sister, Sarah, were all nice characters.
Mike's 2 letters to both MC's.The notes were really gorgeous and funny. I kept seeing/picturing Stephen Fry when Mike's notes were read, and when Mike was referred to by either Gabe or Tom.
While it does float between the Masquerade Ball of 2007 and the Masquerade Ball of 2011, it was well done. If the idea of flashback's bother you in your reading ordinarily, don't let it be of concern here, because it does not detract from the read whatsoever, it just adds to the story's ambiance.
I'm also really rather into a character that is just passing though, finding love for a short while, and creating a conduit for others in doing so. I somehow always seem to find that beautiful, albeit sad at times.
Behind The Mask was a sweet, short read, with charming characters, delightful descriptions of the Masquerade Ball and plenty of British humour and vernacular - bollocks and pillock included. Plus, whilst the sex is minimalist, it's just right as it's intended to be more of a romantic story, HEA included. I would recommend it for those looking for a sweeter M/M romance.
http://ontopdownunderbookreviews.com/...
February 13, 2012
Some may consider the plot not very original, and the flashbacks a tad confusing, but all I can think of after reading this book is how beautiful and heartbreaking it was, and how I both loved it and yes, hated it.
I was mad at Mike for stealing Gabe from Tom, even though he knew they were in love with each other, and Tom was about to confess his feelings to Gabe. And yet I know that Mike, despite his selfishness, was a really nice guy. I'm glad he wrote those letters to Gabe and Tom, giving them their second chance at love. Still, if he hadn't been terminally ill and hadn't died, Tom and Gabe would never be together. The love Gabe had had for Tom would be hidden forever. And Tom? He would be happy for his friend, yes, but he would suffer in silence, knowing he had lost his chance for good.
All those what-ifs gave me a headache. But the thing is, I wouldn't be so worked up about this story if I didn't love both Gabe and Tom. These guys were so likeable. And clearly, so meant for each other. As for Mike, I know I've been raving here, and don't get me wrong, to some degree I'm still mad at him, but those letters he wrote... *sighs* they were heart-wrenching. And although the one he wrote to Gabe made my eyes water, it was the letter meant for Tom that had me openly crying.
I still have a headache when I think of the what-ifs, but apart from that I really enjoyed this touching story.
Lisa Worrall is continuously proving to be an exceptional writer. I look forward to reading more from her in the future.
4 - 4.5 stars
I was mad at Mike for stealing Gabe from Tom, even though he knew they were in love with each other, and Tom was about to confess his feelings to Gabe. And yet I know that Mike, despite his selfishness, was a really nice guy. I'm glad he wrote those letters to Gabe and Tom, giving them their second chance at love. Still, if he hadn't been terminally ill and hadn't died, Tom and Gabe would never be together. The love Gabe had had for Tom would be hidden forever. And Tom? He would be happy for his friend, yes, but he would suffer in silence, knowing he had lost his chance for good.
All those what-ifs gave me a headache. But the thing is, I wouldn't be so worked up about this story if I didn't love both Gabe and Tom. These guys were so likeable. And clearly, so meant for each other. As for Mike, I know I've been raving here, and don't get me wrong, to some degree I'm still mad at him, but those letters he wrote... *sighs* they were heart-wrenching. And although the one he wrote to Gabe made my eyes water, it was the letter meant for Tom that had me openly crying.
I still have a headache when I think of the what-ifs, but apart from that I really enjoyed this touching story.
Lisa Worrall is continuously proving to be an exceptional writer. I look forward to reading more from her in the future.
4 - 4.5 stars
February 6, 2012
Six months ago, Gabe lost this lover to cancer. Four years ago, they’d met at the Masquerade Ball. Several weeks before this year’s Ball, a letter arrives for Gabe from his dead lover, Mike, urging him to go to the Ball and hopefully find his new “Prince Charming.” In the letter, Mike assures Gabe that this is not going to be a P. S., I Love You kinda thing, but he neglects to mention that he’s working from the grave to give Gabe his forever love.
I am convinced Lisa Worrall is some kind of literary medium. That is the only explanation for her ability to write well across so many genres. In A Nanny for Nate, she showed her sweet side. In Thirst, she went to dark places. And now with Behind the Mask, she’s made angst sexy.
Gabe goes through many of the stages of grief on this journey. It’s not over the top, but definitely adds an air of realism. And when he finally makes it to acceptance, I loved it. He starts out content to wallow in his grief, but when he‘s ready to accept the love that had always been his, he’s willing to fight for his forever
And, even though, this is technically Gabe’s story, I loved Tom the best. He has been there for Gabe, through thick and thin, but he’s ready to take their relationship to another level. I really felt his pain. He loved Gabe enough to step aside once. I was on pins and needles to see if he would take the high road a second time.
There isn’t a lot of sex in this book, but what’s there is very sensuous and loving. The story unfolds in such a way that you have to turn the page. Very well plotted and paced.
I can honestly say, I’ve never read a Lisa Worrall book that I didn’t love. Highly recommend.
I am convinced Lisa Worrall is some kind of literary medium. That is the only explanation for her ability to write well across so many genres. In A Nanny for Nate, she showed her sweet side. In Thirst, she went to dark places. And now with Behind the Mask, she’s made angst sexy.
Gabe goes through many of the stages of grief on this journey. It’s not over the top, but definitely adds an air of realism. And when he finally makes it to acceptance, I loved it. He starts out content to wallow in his grief, but when he‘s ready to accept the love that had always been his, he’s willing to fight for his forever
And, even though, this is technically Gabe’s story, I loved Tom the best. He has been there for Gabe, through thick and thin, but he’s ready to take their relationship to another level. I really felt his pain. He loved Gabe enough to step aside once. I was on pins and needles to see if he would take the high road a second time.
There isn’t a lot of sex in this book, but what’s there is very sensuous and loving. The story unfolds in such a way that you have to turn the page. Very well plotted and paced.
I can honestly say, I’ve never read a Lisa Worrall book that I didn’t love. Highly recommend.
May 26, 2014
4.5 Stars
"Lisa Worrall unmasks not one but two love stories in this simple but lovely little story: the sort of all consuming love that binds two souls together, and the sort of uplifting love that binds two hearts together in friendship.
I don’t read a lot of contemporary romance, but I’m glad I took a chance on Behind the Mask and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it the next time you’re in the mood for a few tears, both the sad and happy kind."
"Lisa Worrall unmasks not one but two love stories in this simple but lovely little story: the sort of all consuming love that binds two souls together, and the sort of uplifting love that binds two hearts together in friendship.
I don’t read a lot of contemporary romance, but I’m glad I took a chance on Behind the Mask and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it the next time you’re in the mood for a few tears, both the sad and happy kind."
September 25, 2014
What a sweet, touching story of missed opportunity, grief, and a second chance at love. Tom has loved Gabe from afar for years, but his hesitation to declare his feelings led to Gabe falling in love with Mike and Tom becoming the best friend.
Then Mike got cancer and died, but before he died he left a letter for Gabe and one for Tom that brought them back together. Unfortunately, Gabe wasn't ready to move on and he almost missed Tom's love a second time.
This is a great story, with just enough angst to hold the reader's attention, but plenty of forgiveness and a satisfying ending. Excellent story, highly recommended.
Then Mike got cancer and died, but before he died he left a letter for Gabe and one for Tom that brought them back together. Unfortunately, Gabe wasn't ready to move on and he almost missed Tom's love a second time.
This is a great story, with just enough angst to hold the reader's attention, but plenty of forgiveness and a satisfying ending. Excellent story, highly recommended.
February 8, 2012
Lisa has done it again for me. She took a Valentine's day concept and the setting of an opulent ball and wrote a story that drew me in from the first sentence until the last. She has a history of doing that with me. In this case, Mike knows he's dying and no spoilers here, but he crafts a lovely way to help the man he loves, Gabe, get past his death. Lisa had me in tears when Mike spoke from the grave and she had me cheering at the ending! Well done, Lisa. Well done!
February 14, 2012
I enjoyed Behind the Mask. I really felt for both characters. Unrequited love can be intense and heartbreaking. I was so rooting for their HEA. The letters in the end had me in tears. Don't get me wrong, it isn't a sad story, it is very bittersweet. I definitely recommend this one!
February 14, 2012
Hm, this plot didn't speak to me, sure I do understand the feelings of grieving after a loved one. But I simply can't accept this fast created love. Sure Tom was in love with Gabe for long long time, but Gabe wasn't with Tom. Anyway, the story was sweet.
March 17, 2012
I read it as part of the Masquerade series. Of the three books, I rate them as follows:
The Layered Mask by Sue Brown - 4 stars
Behind the Mask by Lisa Worrall - 3.75 stars (round up to 4)
The Slave's Mask by Patricia Logan - 2.5 stars
The Layered Mask by Sue Brown - 4 stars
Behind the Mask by Lisa Worrall - 3.75 stars (round up to 4)
The Slave's Mask by Patricia Logan - 2.5 stars
June 18, 2014
A lot packed into this short story! Although I normally don't like flashbacks, the author did them well in this little book to provide background and insight into the MC. I enjoyed the theme that, even though love is eternal, there is room for new love and it is ok to move on and be happy!
February 24, 2012
Very sad, sweet, emotional story. I didn't mind the flashback writing and I really loved reading the letters. I enjoyed this one!
June 9, 2012
Brilliant and beautiful!!!!!! Thanks for this book :)
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November 18, 2012
3.5 stars
June 9, 2020
To be honest, I had been set to read a different novel by Ms. Worrall and had "Behind the Mask" in my Kindle as well. I was intrigued by the cover (I love masquerade parties, masks, the whole lovely mysterious thing) and decided to read it first.
First of all, I enjoyed the author's writing. I won't say 'writing style', because it's not a style, it's a voice. It had such a wonderful easiness about it. Comfortable, personal.
The central characters, Gabe, Tom and Mike were equally endearing.
The greater part of the novel takes place at the Downe's Valentine Masquerade Ball, alternating between the years 2007 and 2011. Okay, okay, I know, how can an entire book....? Well, trust me. You will see. And you will find yourself entranced and---if you're like ME---you'll more than likely not want to stop reading because you'll want to see just what DOES transpire at this delicious setting.
Like I said, all three characters are sweethearts. Mike...I really loved this guy. I WILL divulge that he has passed away. I'll admit that I tend to shy away from any book that tells me up front that, hey, a character...well...you know. BUT it's not at all a downer; it is, in fact, very sweet and uplifting and it's Mike's 'voice from the grave' by way of letters to Gabe (who was his lover) and Tom that were, for this reader, some of the most beautiful pieces of the story. His voice in the letters, his cheer, his understanding what Gabe and Tom are too clueless and/or stubborn to grasp, are sweet reading. I could have read Mike's letters all day, I enjoyed them so much. And wish I knew a fellow who could be so insightful and selfish/unselfish simultaneously (going to have to read to see what I mean by THAT).
Lovely, gentle reading. I recommend! And I look forward to reading more from Ms. Worrall.
First of all, I enjoyed the author's writing. I won't say 'writing style', because it's not a style, it's a voice. It had such a wonderful easiness about it. Comfortable, personal.
The central characters, Gabe, Tom and Mike were equally endearing.
The greater part of the novel takes place at the Downe's Valentine Masquerade Ball, alternating between the years 2007 and 2011. Okay, okay, I know, how can an entire book....? Well, trust me. You will see. And you will find yourself entranced and---if you're like ME---you'll more than likely not want to stop reading because you'll want to see just what DOES transpire at this delicious setting.
Like I said, all three characters are sweethearts. Mike...I really loved this guy. I WILL divulge that he has passed away. I'll admit that I tend to shy away from any book that tells me up front that, hey, a character...well...you know. BUT it's not at all a downer; it is, in fact, very sweet and uplifting and it's Mike's 'voice from the grave' by way of letters to Gabe (who was his lover) and Tom that were, for this reader, some of the most beautiful pieces of the story. His voice in the letters, his cheer, his understanding what Gabe and Tom are too clueless and/or stubborn to grasp, are sweet reading. I could have read Mike's letters all day, I enjoyed them so much. And wish I knew a fellow who could be so insightful and selfish/unselfish simultaneously (going to have to read to see what I mean by THAT).
Lovely, gentle reading. I recommend! And I look forward to reading more from Ms. Worrall.
August 25, 2015
Three Books--One Review
OK, let's get this out of the way first. This is the order in which you should read these books (Masquerade Series):
1. The Layered Mask, by Sue Brown
2. The Slave's Mask, by Patricia Hogan
3. Behind the Mask, by Lisa Worrell
The reason is that they will follow chronologically in eras, and I found that to be quite important in appreciating how really good the series is, three authors notwithstanding.
The first two are historical and beautifully written and detailed. The third is a contemporary take on what was established two centuries before in the first novel. The romances are wonderful, the sex is terrific, the love is all over the place. Pounce!
OK, let's get this out of the way first. This is the order in which you should read these books (Masquerade Series):
1. The Layered Mask, by Sue Brown
2. The Slave's Mask, by Patricia Hogan
3. Behind the Mask, by Lisa Worrell
The reason is that they will follow chronologically in eras, and I found that to be quite important in appreciating how really good the series is, three authors notwithstanding.
The first two are historical and beautifully written and detailed. The third is a contemporary take on what was established two centuries before in the first novel. The romances are wonderful, the sex is terrific, the love is all over the place. Pounce!
August 15, 2018
Quirky and sweet
October 20, 2014
I enjoyed it throughly.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews