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House of Blood and Roses #2.5

Masquerade of Blood and Silence

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A masquerade ball unlocks the secrets of a vampire's heart.

Violetta's life has been a lonely one since arriving at the vampire court, but a friendship with one of her family's servants soon proves to change that.

As Violetta and Dante grow closer, she realises there could be more in her life for her, and one fateful masquerade ball changes everything forever and Violetta realises that friendship with Dante might not be enough.

Will she choose to go with him when the clock strikes midnight and the masks come off?

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Masquerade Of Blood And Silence is a standalone story connected to the House Of Blood And Roses series. It is a steamy vampire romantasy featuring a forbidden different worlds m/f romance, vampires, and vampire nobility.

96 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 17, 2024

20 people are currently reading
105 people want to read

About the author

Laura Greenwood

570 books1,670 followers
Laura is a USA Today Bestselling Author of fantasy romance and urban fantasy. She lives in the UK, where most of her books are set, with her partner. When she's not writing, Laura can be found exploring worldwide cusine with her partner, drinking tea, and reading fantasy books. Laura specialises in quick reads, featuring healthy relationships and consent-positive moments, regardless of whether she's writing light-hearted romance, mythology-inspired modern fantasy, cozy fantasy or anything in between.

Discover one of Laura Greenwood's most popular series:
- The Apprentice of Anubis (mythology inspired modern/urban fantasy)
- Forgotten Gods (mythology inspired fantasy romance)
- Jinx Paranormal Dating Agency (mythology inspired paranormal rom-com)
- House of Blood and Roses (vampire romantasy)
- Amethyst's Wand Shop Mysteries (urban fantasy murder mystery)
- Scales of Justice (mythology inspired modern/urban fantasy)
- Purple Oak Oasis (cozy fantasy romance)
- Falhaven Castle (cozy fantasy romance)

You can find a full book list and more information on her website, or in her Facebook Reader Group.

Happy Reading!

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5 stars
25 (33%)
4 stars
27 (36%)
3 stars
14 (18%)
2 stars
7 (9%)
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1 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
Profile Image for Lola.
1,996 reviews275 followers
March 1, 2025
I wanted to make sure I also read all the additional stories in this series. After reading Heart of Blood and Ice I went back and read this one as well. Masquerade of Blood and Silence is Violetta's story, I was a bit confused as she's so different from what we see in Beatrice's point of view, but I think that was the point. She's under so much pressure and her vampire father isn't very nice to her and it's clear how lonely she is.

These additional stories really add to the series and flesh out the world. I liked learning more about Violetta, but this story also shows the darker side of the vampire politics. With how Violetta is stuck there and must do what her father wants. It was also interesting to see more about Luca, who is Violetta's brother and makes an appearance here as well.

The romance was sweet and turned steamy later on. I did feel the romance developed quite quickly, but I could feel their connection. I just wish there had been a few more scenes. The ending has a happy for now type ending that felt a bit unresolved, but I think that's because these characters will play a role in future books. I am very excited to see how all these side stories and the characters will play a role in the main books.

To summarize: This was a good addition to the series. I like how these side stories flesh out some side characters and give some background for them. I look forward to seeing how these characters will play a role in the main series. It was interesting learning more about Violette as she's different from what Beatrice sees of her. I liked the romance between Violetta and Dante even though it did develop quite quickly, I liked them together. There is a bit of steam later on. The ending felt a bit incomplete, but I think that's because these characters will play a role in the main series later.
Profile Image for Nathalie Bookwurm.
89 reviews
January 25, 2025
"Masquerade of Blood and Silence" by Laura Greenwood is a beautifully crafted novella that brings a blend of romance, rebellion, and mystery set in a vampire court. Violetta of House Vermatchi is a relatable protagonist, caught in the web of her father's ambitions and longing for freedom. The dynamics between her and Dante, a servant, add a layer of forbidden romance that tugs at the heartstrings.

The story explores themes of power, control, and the desire for personal agency, all within the enchanting setting of a masquerade ball. The pivotal moment where Violetta and Dante share a dance and a passionate kiss is both tender and daring, showcasing their defiance of societal norms. The ball’s climax, with the announcement of Beatrice and Linc’s marriage.

Laura Greenwood’s storytelling shines with vivid descriptions, emotional depth, and well-paced narrative. The characters feel genuine, and the romantic tension is palpable, making this novella a quick yet thoroughly satisfying read.

Rating: 5 stars
Highly recommended for fans of vampire romance and tales of love defying all odds!
And a little bit of spice 😉.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for PleaseGoAwayImReading.
443 reviews26 followers
October 18, 2024
This was an enjoyable novella (short story?). It centers around Violetta, the FMC, and her newly awarded status as vampire royalty. As a dhampir, she was initially raised by a laborer family in town only to be told her sire was someone completely different- a powerful individual who doesn’t seem to like her at all. Violetta, in her loneliness, befriends Dante, a servant, and an attraction is sparked!

There’s a little bit of spice when Violetta and Dante are first intimate. The story stops shortly after they become lovers. Because this was so short, I felt like I was left hanging. I’m hoping that in the next … episode?.. that the reader sees more character development and development of Violeta’s story.
Profile Image for Alexandria Williams.
524 reviews64 followers
October 12, 2024
Get ready to sink your teeth into Masquerade of Blood and Silence by 🖤🦇

This steamy vampire romantasy throws you right into the heart of a masquerade ball where secrets, desire, and danger swirl like shadows in the night.

Violetta, whose life has been a twisted revelation since she found out she’s not a butcher’s daughter, is now navigating the treacherous waters of vampire court life—and the icy grip of her newly discovered father. 😤 He’s as cold as he is ruthless, even telling her, “So make sure you're useful. Then you can stay a part of this House. You're dismissed.” Seriously, I wanted to slap the dismiss right out of him! 😡

But when Dante, her family's servant, enters the picture, things start heating up. Their connection goes from forbidden friendship to something much more… tantalizing. And during a masquerade ball, everything changes.🎭

Their stolen glances and secret conversations had me hooked! “What’s life without any danger?” Dante asks, spinning her in a dance filled with promise and passion. 😍 You can feel the tension in every moment, especially when he leans in, voice dipping low with a dangerous kind of allure. "I'd have thought that was obvious, Letty."

Court life isn’t just about beautiful gowns and dances, though—it's full of deadly secrets. Dante hints at the sinister depths of Violetta's family, whispering, “If you ever need anything to hold over your brother, that’s it.” 👀 Oh, the drama! As the masks slip away, you’ll be left wondering who’s really hiding what... and if Violetta can survive it all.

🩸Secrets, seduction, and a court full of lies—Masquerade of Blood and Silence delivers on all fronts!

From a forbidden love that simmers beneath the surface to betrayals that could unravel everything, this book is a wild ride through the dark, dangerous world of vampire nobility.
1,064 reviews21 followers
October 18, 2024
Masquerade of Blood and Silence is such a sweet and spicy novella. And I love the author uses the title as a way of representing how secrets start and are kept. And once you read this novella, I am sure you will see what I mean, and you will, in the end, agree with me.

The plot is simple, as is the case for most novellas, and yet it also has some creative under pinning. The way the vampires in this world are created is unique. Honestly, it's a way that I really like. Vampires in this world are not born through biting in this world, and it is refreshing.

The masquerade ball where the novella really starts and the intrigue starts is fantastic. It's a cornerstone of this novella's plot. Really, I wish the novella was a little bit longer so that we could have gotten a little bit more of the story and a bit more of the intrigue.

The characters give just enough that we feel like we know them, but not enough that we don't want to know more. The arcs for all the major and minor characters that we meet and even the characters that are just eluded to leave us wanting just a little bit more.

At the end of the novella, we are given a 2nd novella in the same world, Crown of Blood and Duty. Both novella's are part of the House of Blood and Roses series.

The one thing that did disappoint me, but can be forgiven as this is a novella, is that you don't get the world building you would hope to see. But, from what I did see of the world, it is well thought out and well created.

I hope to see more of it in the next novella, and I will get to see much more of it when I dive into the series.

If you are into darker vampire romance and are looking for a fun, steamy, short read, then I would recommend Masquerade of Blood and Silence. I think you'll enjoy it as much as I did.
Profile Image for Manuela Molteni.
608 reviews11 followers
December 8, 2024
Laura Greenwood strikes again with Masquerade of Blood and Silence, a short but impactful addition to the House of Blood and Roses series. This novella pulls back the velvet curtain on Violetta, the dhampir Lady caught in the ruthless web of noble politics, and her enigmatic brother Luca. Spoiler: Beatrice doesn’t like her—and honestly, who doesn’t love a bit of tension among leading ladies?

In this elegant yet brutal world, Greenwood artfully peels back Violetta’s layers, revealing insecurities that make her more than just a noble figure. She’s a woman out of her depth (or, dare I say, swimming in the wrong pond?), navigating a society where power and freedom rarely go hand in hand. Dante would undoubtedly approve of the theme: it’s better to serve and be free than be shackled by the gilded chains of nobility.

While this series leans more YA than my usual reads, Greenwood’s storytelling has me hooked. Her nuanced characters and carefully woven plots keep me coming back for more. Every novella in this series feels like a puzzle piece sliding into place, hinting at a bigger picture I can’t wait to uncover.

Elegant, intense, and utterly engrossing, Masquerade of Blood and Silence is another gem from Greenwood’s pen. If you’re not already following this series, now’s the time to dive in—you’ll be enchanted.
Profile Image for DianaRaven.
1,316 reviews8 followers
November 2, 2024
MASQUERADE OF BLOOD AND SILENCE is a standalone book related to the House Of Blood And Roses series by Laura Greenwood. Laura Greenwood. Ms Greenwood always brings her characters to life. This is a romantasy series full of vampires, court intrigue, and a slow burning hidden romance and arranged marriage. This short story is another entertaining look into the Golden Moon Ball and life as a vampire. 

When Violetta attended a ball at the mysterious castle on the hill and discovered that vampires were real and she was a half vampire (dhamp. She hasn't been able to to fully acclimate or make any friends. That is until she meets Dante a servant. He's the first person willing to talk to her and make her comfortable in her new home. The problem one or both of them could be punished or even die if they are caught together as anything other than Mistress and servant. But ohh, does she enjoy his company.  Should they continue to hide their growing love or try to flee to somewhere they can openly be together?

I received a free copy of this quick and easy to read book and the above is my voluntary and honest review. 
317 reviews5 followers
October 23, 2024
A short but enjoyable side-story to the House of Blood & Roses series

This is the story of Violetta, a new arrival in the vampire court (see the House of Blood & Roses for the worldview) and Dante (one of the servants).

As might be expected, such a relationship - even for vampires - is not an approved one so life is not becoming any easier, especially as she's still trying to come to grips with *being* a vampire herself.

It is a pleasant short story with ties in to the main sequence and, although it is still a standalone book, I'd advise you to read the main series first so that you understand more of the world in which we find Violetta.

(After doing so, I suspect you will give this 5 stars as well!)
Profile Image for Michelle.
1,559 reviews15 followers
November 11, 2024
This is a sweet and sad story. Violetta aka Letty is newly turned and a bit awkward trying to fit in according to vampire court standards. Unfortunately she only feels at ease with a kind servant called Dante. Bits of Romeo and Juliet here and also a bit of a Cinderella feel with the ball and the social standing of the two characters. This is a between books story with brief appearances of characters that star in the main books. I truly loved Letty and could relate with her 100 percent. I enjoyed the story and the growing affection between her and Dante. Interesting to see how this plays in with the main storyline if at all down the line. Short, sweet with a bit of spice and all around enjoyable read.
I received an ARC from the author this review reflects my honest and sincere thoughts.
Profile Image for TaniaRina Valdespino.
458 reviews15 followers
October 14, 2024
‘What's life without any danger?’
As if being a House pawn is a safe life…our newly turned heroine is taking a huge huge huge risk by cozying up to the cook’s help. It’ll take more than a ball mask to hide behind once the clock strikes the midnight hour.

Are the dire consequences of their love worth it? Or are they merely two lost souls longing for the connection that only requited lust can quench?


‘Rite of Blood and Masks’ will take us back to Beatrice and Linc’s story in early December. Will their dreams come true or will it be an age-old tale of youth doomed by their elder puppet masters?
212 reviews2 followers
November 1, 2024
This was a nice spinoff to the House of Blood and Roses main story. Violetta, aka Letty, is feeling lonely after her debut at the vampiric court, and she struggles to make friends. She also feels that she doesn't quite fit in with her family. Meeting Dante, one of her family's servants, has made things easier for her, but she's not supposed to consort with the help. It's a quick stand-alone romance addition to the series, although I hope these characters come back in the main series. Letty does attend etiquette classes with Beatrice Fallmartin, but their friendship seems anything but secure. Fans of the main series will definitely enjoy this side story!
Profile Image for Victoria Golby.
1,734 reviews13 followers
November 30, 2024
Forbidden vampire love

This is another lovely novella connected to "House of Blood and Roses" series by Laura Greenwood. Set in realm of vampires with court politics, dreams, love, deadly secrets, lies, betrayals and a touch of humor.

Violetta is a new arrival in the vampire court and is still trying to find her place with her newly found father who's ruthless and cold towards her. But when she meets Dante, a servant for the family, she feels a connection which soon changes their forbidden friendship into a forbidden romance.

But everything changes when she goes to a masquarade ball 🎭.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
290 reviews6 followers
October 18, 2024
I really enjoyed reading Masquerade of Blood and Silence. It was fun seeing a new perspective on the vampire houses in the House of Blood and Roses series, and Lettie and Dante are such a perfect couple together. Their story is sweet and spicy- a perfect quick read. There are some intrguing bits to the story, so without giving any spoilers, I'll just say that I look forward to seeing both characters in future books and seeing what eventually happens with their relationship. I highly recommend this book for fans of vampire romances.
Profile Image for Tahnia Ross.
2,184 reviews9 followers
October 23, 2024
Violetta grew up thinking she was human but when she turned 18, she learned the truth about her lineage: she is a vampire. Now living in her sire's presence, Violetta chafes at the bit, missing the freedoms she used to have. Then she meets Dante, one of the servants. This quick read has plenty of parental drama, romance, and steam, ending with a cliffhanger. Very highly recommended.

I received a copy of this book via Bookfunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Linda (ellsky) Jackson.
496 reviews6 followers
October 24, 2024
Violetta is a very endearing character in this side story from the House of Blood and Roses vampire romantasy series. And this one gets spicy!! I really loved Violetta and Dante's evolving relationship, and I would love to read more about them in the main series as well. The Author's Note indicates that we may see this couple again. The tones of this novella were very fairy-tale-esque, and I loved it.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
63 reviews
November 17, 2024
This was a cute novella!! Violetta is a young woman who is suddenly thrown into vampire life with a father and brother she does not know. I’m not a fan of her father, at all. As a reader you really feel for Letty as she tries to acclimate to a new environment and make friends along the way. I think Dante is the sweetest and I can’t wait to read more about them in the future!

Thank you Laura for the ARC opportunity!
Profile Image for Michelle.
10.7k reviews28 followers
January 5, 2025
Violetta/Letty is new to being a vampire and she's trying to find her place in her new world. When she met Dante she felt a connection and I was cheering them on. This novella is a sweet addition to the House of Blood and Roses series and I like how the author ties Letty's story to Beatrice's from the series. I look forward to reading more books in this fun series. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
Profile Image for Lisa.
1,470 reviews5 followers
October 27, 2025
Complimentary Tale

I enjoyed reading this story of Violetta Vermatchi and her secret love affair with Dante. We briefly read about her from the main House of Blood series with Lady Beatrice dismissal. Her connection to Heir Lord Luca Vermatchi. The fact that the author notates this standalone sequence in the main series reading helps. I like reading about the side characters. It gives them depth.
Profile Image for Amanda.
734 reviews9 followers
November 4, 2024
This story introduces Violetta and Dante’s story. I really felt for Violetta as she tries to deal with life as a vampire. The plot draws you into this quick engaging read. It stops after they get together, but lets you know there is more to come in the future. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Buttercup1201.
560 reviews3 followers
December 18, 2024
Reviewed in the United States on December 13, 2024
Violetta is unhappy in her new world. No friends & family isn’t what it should be. She finds happiness with Dante but must keep things a secret. We get a better understanding of the characters as the story develops. Can’t help but root for this couple. Enjoying the series.
Profile Image for Brad.
705 reviews3 followers
November 20, 2025
Vampire Court Soap Opera

This is a cute short story that has much of the intrigue of a soap opera squeezed into a small space. The character development of Dante and Violetta is enough to support the story. The other characters are pretty two dimensional. The story had closure while setting the stage for future episodes.
53 reviews1 follower
October 13, 2024
Violetta and Dante's meeting and romance was sweet and dangerous. They're both 18 and brought to the castle, but will they be able to stay... and to live? I loved the book though the ending was a bit abrupt. Definitely a cliffhanger!! lol Cant wait til the next novel!
Profile Image for Rowan Creech.
1,538 reviews14 followers
October 16, 2024
Secrets, mystery, and romance wrapped up in a vampire setting amidst masquerades and balls makes a perfect book for a paranormal romance reader/ This book was super good with wonderful characters and an entertaining story.
4,492 reviews21 followers
October 17, 2024
I enjoyed this side story that follows Violetta and Dante. Really felt for Violetta as she tries to deal with her new status as a vampire as we get a peak at her life. But never fear she has Dante to help. It was cute and funny and entertaining to read.
Profile Image for Geff Ratcheson.
250 reviews3 followers
October 26, 2024
I'm a pretty big fan of Ms Greenwood. Unfortunately for me, I didn't emotionally connect with this one; possibly due to how short it is.

It's a standalone from her House Of Blood & Roses series.

I received an Advanced Reader's Copy at no charge, & am leaving an honest review.
142 reviews
October 28, 2024
A masquerade of blood and silence is a tale about a young female vampire and a growing forbidden love, with elements from a certain fairytale (no spoilers). It is a slightly steamy read in places but without being full on explicit. I enjoyed reading it and getting to know Lady Violetta.
2,015 reviews6 followers
November 8, 2024
Masquerade Of Blood and Silence standalone short story in the House of Blood and Roses series. It's a sweet and spicy story loaded with intrigue; I really enjoyed it.

I received an ARC from the author and am freely giving my review.
Profile Image for Rosalie Johnston.
Author 5 books5 followers
November 9, 2024
Violetta makes you feel for her right from the start! It's not often I care about characters so quickly, and it's great how the author was able to bring them to life. If you like short reads featuring royalty, vampires, and forbidden romance, you'll love this!
Profile Image for Heather Martin.
178 reviews4 followers
November 16, 2024
Another good book in this series. It’s a novella with characters from the series. A secret love story with vampires, so definitely romantasy. I’m loving this world that these characters are in and can’t wait for some more!
Profile Image for Jo Fouracre.
243 reviews1 follower
January 15, 2025
I loved this book seeing as you get to actually know Violetta compared to Bea’s point of view. Which makes you pretty much despise her. I actually feel quite sorry for her she comes across much worse than she is. Here is to getting to know her better
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews

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