POE Prophecies: Mask of the Red Death

by P. Anastasia

I won’t give up without a fight.The Prophet had an ugly little surprise in store, and now it haunts me, threatening my future at P.O.E. Academy. There are unspoken risks, and I’m not referring to Lenore’s “accident” this time. Everything I’ve been working toward could vanish in an instant. After what happened to Theo, we need to tread carefully.I wish that was our only concern. After some serious digging, and nights without sleep, we think we’ve finally uncovered the place where Disbelievers have been recruiting students. We plan to sneak inside, gather some intel, and then get out. No harm in that, right? Infiltrating the place isn’t going to be easy, but my friends have my back.We’re smart, and we won’t get caught.

Genres: Middle Grade, Fantasy, Young Adult

150 pages, Paperback

Published April 2, 2024

About the author

P. ANASTASIA'S fresh take on storytelling resonates with darkness, charm, and passion--the embodiment of her unique writing style. Ensnared by the craft in childhood, she attempted her first book at age eleven. While working toward her college degree, she wrote news and editorial columns for two campus newspapers. After graduating with a degree in communications and spending a year studying abroad in Kofu, Japan, she followed her heart to her publishing aspirations. On the side, she serves as a professional voice talent for radio, television, and audio books. P. Anastasia is the author of nine novels: Exile of the Sky God, the Fluorescence series, Fates Aflame, Fates Awoken, and the historical-paranormal romances, Dark Diary & Grave Burden.

Follow P. Anastasia on
Instagram @ FluorescentOnes
www.facebook.com/FluorescenceBooks

She firmly believes being a writer is not about writing what you want, but writing what needs to be written and faithfully retelling the stories of your characters no matter how uncomfortable they may make you.

"Write the truth!"

Reviews

[Jennifer Denney · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book picks up right after the last. This time they find what might be the secret lair. Also more on Vincent past. Very fast paced and as an adult I have to keep reminding myself that th kids are 12 to maybe 14. Also ends in a cliffhanger. We also find out more about the missing student Theo.

[Myranda · Rating 4 out of 5]

My favorite one so far. Excited to see what comes next!

[Colleen Villasenor · Rating 4 out of 5]

These books are getting better as the series progresses. It still seems strange to me when characters refer to Poe as the prophet, but it makes sense in the story. My favorite parts of each book are the references to Poe's works and little bits of his history

[Valerie Moody · Rating 4 out of 5]

P. Anastasia’s Poe Prophecies: Mask of the Red Death delivers a gripping and imaginative reworking of Edgar Allan Poe’s chilling tale of plague, fear, and human vanity. Anastasia captures the eerie opulence of Prince Prospero’s masquerade while expanding the story into a fast-moving adventure with supernatural twists. The book skillfully balances gothic dread with modern pacing, making it both atmospheric and accessible.

The strongest aspect of the novel is its mood. Anastasia recreates the claustrophobic tension of a world sealed away from death, all while layering in new conflicts and characters that broaden the original narrative. Readers will find themselves pulled into the lavish halls of Prospero’s stronghold, where danger lurks beneath the glitter and masks.

Some moments lean more toward action than psychological horror, which may feel lighter than Poe’s original tale of inevitability and decay. Still, the novel’s brisk pacing and cinematic style ensure that it never drags, and its creative expansions invite readers to think about power, mortality, and the false security of wealth.

Overall, Mask of the Red Death is a compelling addition to the Poe Prophecies series—dark, stylish, and unsettling, though with a modern adventurous streak that makes it distinct from its source.

[AM · Rating 5 out of 5]

*The Poe Prophecies: The Mask of the Red Death* by P. Anastasia is nothing short of extraordinary. This installment takes the series to new heights—intensely atmospheric, beautifully written, and brimming with emotion, suspense, and haunting imagery. Anastasia masterfully reimagines Poe’s classic tale, weaving together gothic horror, prophecy, and human vulnerability in a way that feels both timeless and fresh.

The story plunges you into a world where fear, power, and destiny collide. The pacing is flawless, building from eerie unease to full-blown, heart-pounding intensity. Every scene feels cinematic, every revelation perfectly timed. Anastasia’s prose is both elegant and razor-sharp—evoking dread, sorrow, and hope all at once.

What makes this book so remarkable is its emotional depth. Beneath the plague and chaos lies a profound meditation on mortality, sacrifice, and what it means to truly live in the face of darkness. The characters are unforgettable—haunted yet resilient, each with their own secrets and scars.

This isn’t just another dark fantasy—it’s an experience. *The Mask of the Red Death* is a brilliant, immersive continuation of *The Poe Prophecies* series that will stay with you long after the final page. P. Anastasia has outdone herself once again.

[Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gripping tale that is in league with the Percy Jackson series, that focuses on those who seek to dive deeper into Edgar Allen Poe's works, or as the characters call him "the Prophet". I can't wait to see where this series takes us in Aiden Grey's story of self discovery and reflection through his first year in the academy and beyond. I cannot wait for book 6.

[Sandra Hernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This time around, they’re trying to discover where the disbeliever meet and they think they finally found the place.
You see the friendship of Vincent Leno, and Aidan getting closer.
I will say the author does a really great job and putting you in the mind of middle schoolers as an adult reading the series I forget how free and idealistic we are at that age.

[Terry · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quick easy read. Listened to the entire book in a few hours. I use them as fillers in between books a hold on that I’m waiting for. Poe Prophecies are written for a tween or younger audience so the plots and character interactions are fairly simple. I like the Poe references and mystery since I’m a fan Edgar Allen Poe’s work.

[Rich Oliver · Rating 5 out of 5]

A part of a good series for middle grade students - something that is increasingly hard to find these days. It was an enjoyable read. I have two more to go, which if I time it right, should get me up to speed when volume 6 comes out.

[Liam · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good third book that finally introduces us to the Disbelievers and their nefarious methods, and further expands on Vincent, which I found quite enjoyable. Overall, this did not expand quite as much as Book 2, but it does move the story along, with a high stake coming at the end. On to book Four.

[Jenna Rosenfeld · Rating 4 out of 5]

I appreciate the progression of the plot and the creative way that the author incorporates Poe and his work. I am excited to keep reading this series, and to then add it to my classroom library.

[Mira · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had no idea P.O.E. was so fascinating but I'm learning a lot in these wonderful books!

I highly recommend P. Anastasia her books are brilliant!

[Danni · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kindle. Book 3 in Series.

[Patricia Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kept me on my toes

I love the progression and the constant drive of the story. Almost as much as I love Poe. Thank you.

[Sally · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 stars. Aidan and Lenore start learning at the Archives building under the tutelage of Professor Grendel. Incantations are being broken by the Disbelievers.

[Mary Kay Dugan · Rating 4 out of 5]

another good read in the series! if you haven't picked up the series yet, you should!