Mask of Paradise

by Jennifer Bacia

Against backdrops of London, Paris, Warsaw and Sydney, Marianne, a beautiful European refugee marries into a wealthy establishment family. But a mystery lies at the heart of the unusual union. Haunted by her past, and rejected by a powerful mother-in-law who is determined to destroy this nobody who has ‘trapped’ her son, Marianne is pushed to the edge. In the scandal that follows, she is forced to pay a shocking price. Almost three decades later, Marianne’s daughter Eve, a high profile media star, is tormented by the mystery of her parents’ past. When her search for the truth finds her charged with murder, Eve’s only hope lies in betraying the woman who has become her closest confidante

Genres: Thriller

Hardcover

First published January 1, 1993

About the author

Jennifer Bacia's first suspense thriller, Indecent Ambition, (original title Shadows of Power) was a debut author’s dream.
-The novel sold for a record-breaking advance.
-It became an international best seller and Book Club Choice.
-The movie rights were optioned, sales were made to leading foreign publishers and an extract featured in Cosmopolitan magazine.

Now the author of 8 successful novels and dozens of short stories, Jennifer promises her readers a book they simply can’t put down.

Her best-selling suspense thrillers, A Very Public Scandal, Indecent Ambition, Never Forget Me and Whisper Her Name are irresistible fast-paced stories featuring strong, intelligent women set against the glamour and intrigue of international backgrounds.

She also writes contemporary domestic fiction that most women will relate to. Everything to Lose, Best Kept Secrets, One Door Closes and The Almost Perfect Lover are rich involving stories that focus on women's dreams aspirations, illusions and regrets.

Jennifer has also published a guide to writing called Bestseller! How to Write Novels that Sell based on the creative writing course she was invited to establish at Bond University. Bestseller! is full of practical advice and offers a unique analysis of what made her own debut novel so appealing to publishers.

Jennifer's surname is probably Italian in origin and is pronounced as ‘batcher’

You can contact Jennifer on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/jenniferbaci... or visit her website at www.jenniferbacia.net where her novels and writing guide are available.
PLEASE NOTE SOME TITLES HAVE BEEN CHANGED:
A VERY PUBLIC SCANDAL was first published as Mask of Paradise.
WHISPER HER NAME was first published as Angel of Honour
NEVER FORGET ME was first published as Whisper from the Gods.
INDECENT AMBITION was first published as Shadows of Power.
ONE DOOR CLOSES was first published as Table for Three.

Reviews

[Natalie M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely brilliant! Bacia’s seamless ability to take you between time periods, characters and situations is remarkable. The novel is gripping from the first page and an author I was “just trying” has moved to my must read list. Very much like an Jeffrey Archer/Robert Ludlum//Patricia Cornwall....in twists, turns and triumphs; amid a well-researched setting.

[Elyse · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jennifer Bacia is an incredible author. After reading this book I have already started her next book and even recommended this to my book club. I would say from the way the plot moves through different locals to the way the author twists and turns the plot I was hooked. I started this book in the morning and finished that night. I could not put this book down. I would say this is a book that anyone could read and enjoy.

[Hannah L · Rating 3 out of 5]

Almost the entire book was backstory and I was just waiting and waiting for it to get back to the present (as started in the prologue). The last thirty pages of this book were the most engaging with a lot of exciting present day drama finally happening.
A good solid read, but I am personally not a fan of war history, so a big part of the book just didn't float my boat.

[S.A. Krishnan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book was an absolute thriller.
The story spans two generations and the thriller overlaps the two generations as the daughter tries to unravel the life of her parents.
The story has multiple layers and is completely enjoyable at every level.

[Max G. Bernard · Rating 5 out of 5]

International intrigue, scandal, romance, and hidden secrets

The past, they say, is always with us, and too often those who don’t understand this are condemned to repeat it. Our experiences are not just what we encounter, they become a part of what we are, at the very core of our being. This book paints a wide panorama of the past and present, playing out on the streets and in the homes in France, Poland, Australia, and Great Britain, and unraveling a tale of international intrigue, scandal, and romance in the context of a family’s hidden secrets.

A daughter seeks to uncover the truth about her parents’ past, and winds up facing traumatic criminal charges of homicide as a result. There is a way out for her, but only at a terrible price. The
Choices we make also become part of who we are, whether we like it, or acknowledge it, or not.

The complexity and intricate layers of this thriller make it easy to see why an article in Cosmopolitan magazine compared the author to Sidney Sheldon. The suspense just keeps coming and the twists and turns will keep you turning pages to see what comes next. Filled with independent female heroes who are inspiring, and emphasizing plot and character, rather than the details of violence and gore, this book is a rare treasure that I really enjoyed.

[Bernie Joseph · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spanning two generations, a skillfully crafted thriller

It has been a long time since I’ve read as skillfully crafted a complex thriller as this one. Jennifer Bacia has even been likened to Sidney Sheldon by some, and now I understand why.

The story involves first a troubled marriage beset by interference and opposition from a wealthy manipulative mother-in-law and hidden family secrets. The daughter of this union, years later, has to grapple with the consequences of her origins and upbringing, troubled by both the apparent conflicts and by those which remain below the surface.

The unfolding of what happens next involve serious life changing legal consequences, difficult morally challenging choices, and a host of plot twists which are a roller coaster ride for the reader.

The daughter is an amazing character with character and courage that exemplify the most admirable kind of woman. The ending of this one will blow you away, guaranteed.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just the sort of book I can't get enough of. Rivetting, intelligent plot with characters of depth and substance. I loved the backgrounds that swept from Warsaw to London, Sydney to Paris. I saw on the writer's site that reviewers had compared her to Sidney Sheldon. Well, I have to agree! And that is high praise from someone who sees S Sheldon as the master of romantic suspense. The suspense just never let up and I found it hard to put the book aside when ordinary life called. There were so many twists and surprises that just carried me along and kept me totally engrossed. I loved everything about this e-book and will definitely be reading more by this author. Highly recommended.

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I was first recommended this novel I was very skeptical about reading something from an author I had not heard of. I would have to say I was intrigued by Jennifer Bacia's style. The twists and turns that were in the book and the many angles of the plot kept me reading this book. I was impressed with the way the author used some many locations during the events of the story and describe them in such a way that I felt I was there. I would definitely say I have the second book on order already.

[Chy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read many books of suspense and this one is up there with the best of them. A Very Public Scandal has everything you would expect from the suspense/thriller genre including romance, secrets, murder, and of course, scandal. I love the author’s selection of characters and incorporating the streets of Europe provides a good change of scenery that goes perfectly with the plot. The twist and turns that occurs in the story is what makes this book oh so intriguing. A Very Public Scandal demonstrates how we can never truly get away from our past or haunting family secrets. This is a well-written book and deserves a five star rating.

[Jeff · Rating 5 out of 5]

“A Very Public Scandal” by Jennifer Bacia is an exceptionally well written thriller, with a fierce female lead character. Bacia propels the story forward with a strong voice, in this action packed ebook. As I read this fascinating story, I escaped into an adventurous ride through London, Paris, Warsaw and Sydney. I loved reading Bacia's global novel, which is filled with everything, passion, betrayal and crime. Bacia's portrayal of Eve's struggle from the moment she becomes a suspect, is depicted in a very realistic and intelligent manner.

[Mzchary · Rating 5 out of 5]

"A Very Public Scandal" is a must read novel. The plot is filled with suspense and secrets that keep you wanting to read more. The main character has a tragic past that caused her to carry her baggage throughout her whole life. It was as if it was a shield from the truth and the real world, great language used to describe the emotional state of the characters. I loved the plot, filled with twists and turns this novel keeps you on the edge of your seat wanting more. Beauty can make you or break you as the story reveals. Great Book!!

[Adrienne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing. Marianne is a real person and I'm going to find her. When I find her, we're going to have it out. Why would you live your life that way?! I was on Eve's side all the way through this book, good or bad. I can identify with the idea of being affected by what your parents have done. This book helped me realize that if I continue to be affected, I may end up like Eve. I haven't decided if that's bad or good.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

The characters in the book were very real. While some books lack emotion, and don't really say how an individual is feeling, this book doesn't. The book avoids cliches, a nice and refreshing change from most reading. The characters are all original, and don't really seem to stereotype anything. It was really interesting to read the book, because as I read each page, I felt more and more drawn into the characters. I really liked this read and plan on reading it again.

[Elizabeth Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked the opening of the book – it built the mystery part right away. “He didn't know” or “she didn't know” is always a sign that something is going to happen to someone who is completely and totally unaware. I love that the characters actually try to be 'totally unoriginal,' and that they are more unique characters than any I have read prior to this book. I really liked how the book was laid out, and how trusting certain characters were of the main character. Overall, a great read.

[Shakeera Frazer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was immediately interested in this book by the title and it definitely lived up to the name! A very public scandal was great. It had a juicy plot and so many twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat. It was so well written, which made it easy to follow along. This was my first book by this author and now I'm am reading her second novel which is equally great. Pick up your copy today! You will love it!

[Melanie Hammond · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Very Public Scandal is the first novel I have read by Jennifer Bacia. It will not, however, be the last. I was hooked from page one. This novel features a fast paced plot,various exotic European locales, and a strong female protagonist. I can hardly wait to start Bacia's next novel.

[Daphne Manning · Rating 3 out of 5]

Two tormented souls , each bearing the scars of war. Each having survived the worst elements of war, bearing scars both visible and invisible fi d each other and enter into a marriage that is more sanctuary than desire.Here is a story you rarely find. A love not of desire but of understanding born of hurt and triumph over loyalty and fidelity. A man robbed of the one chance to have children and offer a true expression of love . A young woman caught in the crosshairs of war and used brutally. What begins in torment ends in a solace seldom seen in modern fiction. Well done!

[Kris McCracken · Rating 1 out of 5]

Alas, I found Jennifer Bacia's A Very Public Scandal a poorly written and shallow work of historical fiction. The writing is often disjointed, and there are giant leaps between characters, timelines and tone that sometimes seem laughable. Seemingly every chapter ends with a ridiculous foreshadowing that often made me blush with its amateurish approach (e.g. "She could not have believed that such happiness was possible. Yet, soon events would turn and such happiness would be washed away in rivers of sorrow".)

The poor writing accompanies unceasing and ludicrously implausible plot twists that traverse decades and continents and a tendency to linger just a little too long in scenes of graphic sexual violence.

Whomever the intended audience is here, it most assuredly is not me.

⭐

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Loved this book, it had all the elements of a fantastic plot and well drawn characters that you really care about. The seamless switch between time periods, the edgy emotions and the backstory of the main characters germane to the plot woven throughout was beautifully done. It did slow down in certain places but too few to really take away from being pulled into the story or be completely invested in the characters. Jennifer Bacia weaves a fabulous story with lots of twists and turns with surprises and “oh I didn’t see that coming” moments to keep you turning the page until you get all the answers you are looking for.... will definitely read her other books.

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

A Very Public Scandal spanned two generations of women and was filled with secrets and suspense along the way. There were also many twists and turns that I didn't see coming and I didn't see the end at all!

However, there were a couple of times I found myself rolling my eyes with all the drama that was happening. If something could go wrong, it certainly did! However, still an enjoyable read.

[Amy Driver · Rating 5 out of 5]

Won the book from LibraryThing's early reviewer's list. Loved it! So much heartache and agony. Wasn't expecting the surprise at the end. Read in 2 sittings because I couldn't put it down!

[Julie Cannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book I read for 5 hours yesterday, it was a great read wound make a fantastic movie or mini series

[Cynthia Harris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent! Full of interest, history, drama and surprises.

[Luisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful storytelling, page turner. A great book

[L.M. May · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this when I was quite young and new to writing. I found both this book and the author inspiring for that reason.

As it has been a while since I've read it, it is not all that clear in my memory, but I still remember the 'feelings' I had when reading it as it left quite a powerful impact on me.

I still remember what the cover looked like :-} even though it is not pictured here. It was a hardcover, and one of the first books that I actually bought with my own money. The fly-cover was mostly blue.

I wonder if Jennifer remembers that moment when she first held this book in her hands - I'm not sure but I believe this might have been Jennifer Baccia's first published novel. I remember devouring it, loving that it was set in Australia; an Australian book with all the mystery and intrigue of some of my favourite international authors! It completely blew me away.

It was one of those books with mystery and intrigue that I just couldn't seem to read quick enough. In fact I would love to read it again if I can get my hands on a copy of it.

I then went on to buy Jennifer Baccia's 'Creating Popular Fiction' and devoured that as though it was my bible. I also bought a copy for my mum who thought she might like to try her hand at writing!!

Her words were so easy to read, and further inspired me in my quest to one day be a published author. So for that Jennifer I thank you... I am still at it, all these years later, tap tap tapping away, and while most of this isn't related directly to the book itself as such, as you can see it remains an important book in my past, and I wanted you to know that all your hard earned words were truly inspiring to this reader, and to many others I'm sure. I am actually feeling quite whimsical now, just thinking about it.

[Aileen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very similar to Sidney Sheldon in style. The story starts with news of a murder, then jumps back to war-time Poland and the horrific events that happen to a close-knit family. Only Marianne survives, to an even worse fate that will take her in time to London, Paris and Sydney. This is a fast-paced gripping story, short chapters that make you want to keep reading, and a very easy and light read. I found it made a change to escape into a rags to riches and back to rags story. Highly enjoyable.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This suspenseful thriller takes you on an action packed adventure through exciting far off cities such as Paris, Warsaw, London and Sydney. The heroine of this story begins on a terrifying escapade that entwines love, wealth blood with scandal and betrayal shrouded in mystery. No wonder the critics from Cosmopolitan magazine compared Barcia’s writing to that of master thriller writer Sidney Sheldon. This book is a well-crafted thriller; where you will find that each twist to the story opens many new surprises. I find it refreshing to read about Intelligent, strong heroines who inspire.

[Malina · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Very Public Scandal is a very hard book to put down because it is so riveting. The novel takes us into the private lives of the upper crust where evil lurks below the surface. This is a thrilling mystery with many plot twists. Intrigue and perseverance are key themes in this novel. This is an absolute must read, very satisfying.

[Elli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it. Thankyou Jennifer for giving me a real page turner with more twists than a contortionist . I look forward to my next Jennifer Bacia novel.

[Claudia · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. Full bodied fluff.