What do you think?
Masked Intent
- GenresRomance
228 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 20, 2026
About the author
Serenity Star
1 book4 followersCanadian-based dark and contemporary romance author. I write morally grey MMCs and Black FMCs who are the main event.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
July 21, 2026
I really enjoyed Masked Intent. The book had a lot of tension, drama, and chemistry between Morayo and Silas, and it kept me interested throughout the story. I especially enjoyed their dynamic and watching their relationship develop into something deeper.
I also liked that Morayo was a strong and ambitious character with her own goals. She felt like her own person outside of her relationship with Silas, which I appreciated. Silas was definitely a morally gray and complicated character. There were times when his actions frustrated me, but I also think that was part of what made him interesting to read.
The undercover identity and backstabbing added another part to the story, and I liked that there was more happening in the plot besides just the romance. I also enjoyed the Nigerian representation and getting to see more of Morayo’s relationship with her family.
One thing I wish we got to see was Silas realizing that Morayo was gone and going after her. I would've really loved to see his reaction when he noticed her absence and what he would do once he realized she was missing. I feel like seeing him search for her would have added even more emotional intensity to the story and would have shown how much she truly meant to him. This was one part of the story where I found myself wanting more.
Overall, I really enjoyed Masked Intent It had strong chemistry, an interesting plot, drama, and characters that kept me engaged. While there were a few things I wish had been explored more, I still had a great time reading it and would recommend it to readers who enjoy dark romance, morally gray characters, and strong female characters.
I also liked that Morayo was a strong and ambitious character with her own goals. She felt like her own person outside of her relationship with Silas, which I appreciated. Silas was definitely a morally gray and complicated character. There were times when his actions frustrated me, but I also think that was part of what made him interesting to read.
The undercover identity and backstabbing added another part to the story, and I liked that there was more happening in the plot besides just the romance. I also enjoyed the Nigerian representation and getting to see more of Morayo’s relationship with her family.
One thing I wish we got to see was Silas realizing that Morayo was gone and going after her. I would've really loved to see his reaction when he noticed her absence and what he would do once he realized she was missing. I feel like seeing him search for her would have added even more emotional intensity to the story and would have shown how much she truly meant to him. This was one part of the story where I found myself wanting more.
Overall, I really enjoyed Masked Intent It had strong chemistry, an interesting plot, drama, and characters that kept me engaged. While there were a few things I wish had been explored more, I still had a great time reading it and would recommend it to readers who enjoy dark romance, morally gray characters, and strong female characters.
August 2, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️: an easy 5-star read.
🌶️ Spice: 2.5/5, because I know there’s more where that came from. 😉
I was in the WORST reading slump, and Masked Intent by Serenity Star completely pulled me out of it. This book was exactly what I didn’t know I needed.
Morayo is such a beautifully written, relatable character. She was hit with obstacle after obstacle, yet she never allowed them to define or stop her. As a Nigerian myself, I’ve seen firsthand how horribly firstborn daughters can sometimes be treated within families, so reading her story hit especially close to home. Serenity captured those family dynamics so well that I found myself genuinely outraged by their actions and just wanting to reach through the pages and hug Morayo. What I admired most was that she refused to back down under pressure. She was willing to fight for herself, even if it cost her everything. And when she realized she wanted Silas? She didn’t let anyone or anything stand in the way of the life and the man she wanted.
Now let’s talk about Silas… my guy. 😂 He was exactly what Morayo needed. He’s the definition of a morally grey character and truly couldn’t care less what anyone thinks of him. He entered the story ready to destroy anyone and anything standing between him and the mission his grandfather gave him. Little did he know that accepting that assignment would also lead him to one of the best things that would ever happen to him: Morayo. I loved how fiercely protective he became of her and how refreshingly honest he was about his feelings from the very beginning. And can we please talk about that filthy mouth of his? Sir… who taught you to speak like that? 😭
One thing that genuinely surprised me was how much depth Serenity packed into such a short book. Every character felt fully developed, their journeys felt meaningful, and not once did the story feel rushed. We got the emotion, the tension, the romance, and an unforgettable reading experience all in one.
What makes this book stand out even more is how unique it is. I’ve read a lot of romance, but I honestly can’t think of another book that so seamlessly explores interracial relationships, racism, discrimination, the trauma experienced by firstborn daughters, misogyny, and sexism while still delivering one of the coziest, swooniest romances I’ve read in a long time. That balance is incredibly difficult to achieve, and Serenity Star absolutely nailed it.
My only complaint? Serenity Star doesn’t have more books available for me to binge immediately because the world genuinely needs to read more of her stories. She has introduced me to a standard of storytelling that I am now obligated to maintain, and I’m left with a giant book-shaped hole while I wait for whatever she writes next.
I’ll absolutely be on the lookout for every single book Serenity Star releases. If this is what she can do, I can’t wait to see what’s next.
🌶️ Spice: 2.5/5, because I know there’s more where that came from. 😉
I was in the WORST reading slump, and Masked Intent by Serenity Star completely pulled me out of it. This book was exactly what I didn’t know I needed.
Morayo is such a beautifully written, relatable character. She was hit with obstacle after obstacle, yet she never allowed them to define or stop her. As a Nigerian myself, I’ve seen firsthand how horribly firstborn daughters can sometimes be treated within families, so reading her story hit especially close to home. Serenity captured those family dynamics so well that I found myself genuinely outraged by their actions and just wanting to reach through the pages and hug Morayo. What I admired most was that she refused to back down under pressure. She was willing to fight for herself, even if it cost her everything. And when she realized she wanted Silas? She didn’t let anyone or anything stand in the way of the life and the man she wanted.
Now let’s talk about Silas… my guy. 😂 He was exactly what Morayo needed. He’s the definition of a morally grey character and truly couldn’t care less what anyone thinks of him. He entered the story ready to destroy anyone and anything standing between him and the mission his grandfather gave him. Little did he know that accepting that assignment would also lead him to one of the best things that would ever happen to him: Morayo. I loved how fiercely protective he became of her and how refreshingly honest he was about his feelings from the very beginning. And can we please talk about that filthy mouth of his? Sir… who taught you to speak like that? 😭
One thing that genuinely surprised me was how much depth Serenity packed into such a short book. Every character felt fully developed, their journeys felt meaningful, and not once did the story feel rushed. We got the emotion, the tension, the romance, and an unforgettable reading experience all in one.
What makes this book stand out even more is how unique it is. I’ve read a lot of romance, but I honestly can’t think of another book that so seamlessly explores interracial relationships, racism, discrimination, the trauma experienced by firstborn daughters, misogyny, and sexism while still delivering one of the coziest, swooniest romances I’ve read in a long time. That balance is incredibly difficult to achieve, and Serenity Star absolutely nailed it.
My only complaint? Serenity Star doesn’t have more books available for me to binge immediately because the world genuinely needs to read more of her stories. She has introduced me to a standard of storytelling that I am now obligated to maintain, and I’m left with a giant book-shaped hole while I wait for whatever she writes next.
I’ll absolutely be on the lookout for every single book Serenity Star releases. If this is what she can do, I can’t wait to see what’s next.
July 26, 2026
Tropes: Workplace Romance, Workplace Conflict, Secret Identify, Attraction/Love at first Glance, Suspense, Morally Gray Hero
Serenity Star refers to her novel Masked Intent as her debut work, but it is hard to believe that considering how well-written and entertaining her story is. The main characters are appealing with awesome chemistry, and they pull us into the complex and intriguing plot.
Morayo Ajayi has a reputation for excellence at Marrowe; she is young but as the chief of staff, she is dedicated and hardworking. Some of her fellow workers see her as an ICE QUEEN and treat her with either jealousy or sabotage. In addition, she has a contentious relationship with her family, and they are pressing her to make a traditional Nigerian marriage.
Silas Carter (Marrowe) has spent his life in the shadows of the company that will one day be his inheritance. Working behind the scenes, he has ensured that the company is safe and robust. However, when his ailing grandfather suspects sabotage, who would be better to ferret out the culprits than Silas? His grandfather gives him his directive along with a mandate to watch out for Moraya. Once Silas arrives in his “fake” role as an analyst, he doesn’t need his grandfather’s encouragement to keep an eye on Moraya, he is immediately smitten. But how will she react when she learns that the man she is enamored with is not who he says he is? Will she forgive him for his lies AND will their enemies take the LOSS and walk away or will they continue to play dirty?
Conclusion:
In Masked Intent Serenity Star gives readers a vibrant and intense love story with elements of suspense. Silas was absolutely “take-charge” and supported Moraya in all aspects of her life, both professional and personal (with her toxic family). I loved the dignity that Moraya showed as she navigated working as a minority in a forward-facing company but she was down to earth and amusing. Some of the funniest dialog came from Moraya’s snark as she dealt with bossy Silas. I enjoyed their dynamic! Final words, Masked Intent is immensely entertaining and delivers a satisfying epilogue that covers all the bases. I look forward to reading Ms. Star’s SECOND book, hopefully soon!
Favorite Lines:
He’d left as a reluctant heir and returned as the man who actually knew how to run an empire.
The titan of industry looked smaller, older, like time had finally managed to land a blow.
The office parts for her like she’s royalty or a blade….
She’s tall, lighter- skinned than me, which in this house has always counted for something, pretty, bubbly.
Still beautiful, God, painfully so, yet underneath the armor is pain. I don’t like that. At all. Who did this to you?
“Henry is… special to me. He gave me a shot when no one else cared to and never made me feel small,
I can’t wait to get her alone so I can deal with all that attitude.
“You have no idea how dark it gets in my head when it comes to you,” he whispers. “How obsessive.
“What does that even mean? You always talk in circles.” I laugh. “It means I’m on your side, Morayo. That’s all you need to know.”
“You’re impossible, Silas Carter,” she says. “I can’t even be nice to you for five seconds without you ruining it.”
“Are you going to come in, or do you just plan to gawk the entire time?”
I turn to leave, but she surprises me by pulling me into a stiff hug.
“Are we at second base now?”
I pause, knowing I shouldn’t listen, but Silas is never going to tell me what he’s doing, even if I ask. Besides, I’m nosy, and this concerns me, so why not?
Every time a new piece slots into place, we look at each other, and I’m reminded of how grateful I am to have him. He’s like a boyfriend, bodyguard, and colleague all in one.
“They better stay away,” Silas says. “Or you’ll fuck them up. I know,” I reply with a smile.
https://theretiredreader.com/f/masked...
Serenity Star refers to her novel Masked Intent as her debut work, but it is hard to believe that considering how well-written and entertaining her story is. The main characters are appealing with awesome chemistry, and they pull us into the complex and intriguing plot.
Morayo Ajayi has a reputation for excellence at Marrowe; she is young but as the chief of staff, she is dedicated and hardworking. Some of her fellow workers see her as an ICE QUEEN and treat her with either jealousy or sabotage. In addition, she has a contentious relationship with her family, and they are pressing her to make a traditional Nigerian marriage.
Silas Carter (Marrowe) has spent his life in the shadows of the company that will one day be his inheritance. Working behind the scenes, he has ensured that the company is safe and robust. However, when his ailing grandfather suspects sabotage, who would be better to ferret out the culprits than Silas? His grandfather gives him his directive along with a mandate to watch out for Moraya. Once Silas arrives in his “fake” role as an analyst, he doesn’t need his grandfather’s encouragement to keep an eye on Moraya, he is immediately smitten. But how will she react when she learns that the man she is enamored with is not who he says he is? Will she forgive him for his lies AND will their enemies take the LOSS and walk away or will they continue to play dirty?
Conclusion:
In Masked Intent Serenity Star gives readers a vibrant and intense love story with elements of suspense. Silas was absolutely “take-charge” and supported Moraya in all aspects of her life, both professional and personal (with her toxic family). I loved the dignity that Moraya showed as she navigated working as a minority in a forward-facing company but she was down to earth and amusing. Some of the funniest dialog came from Moraya’s snark as she dealt with bossy Silas. I enjoyed their dynamic! Final words, Masked Intent is immensely entertaining and delivers a satisfying epilogue that covers all the bases. I look forward to reading Ms. Star’s SECOND book, hopefully soon!
Favorite Lines:
He’d left as a reluctant heir and returned as the man who actually knew how to run an empire.
The titan of industry looked smaller, older, like time had finally managed to land a blow.
The office parts for her like she’s royalty or a blade….
She’s tall, lighter- skinned than me, which in this house has always counted for something, pretty, bubbly.
Still beautiful, God, painfully so, yet underneath the armor is pain. I don’t like that. At all. Who did this to you?
“Henry is… special to me. He gave me a shot when no one else cared to and never made me feel small,
I can’t wait to get her alone so I can deal with all that attitude.
“You have no idea how dark it gets in my head when it comes to you,” he whispers. “How obsessive.
“What does that even mean? You always talk in circles.” I laugh. “It means I’m on your side, Morayo. That’s all you need to know.”
“You’re impossible, Silas Carter,” she says. “I can’t even be nice to you for five seconds without you ruining it.”
“Are you going to come in, or do you just plan to gawk the entire time?”
I turn to leave, but she surprises me by pulling me into a stiff hug.
“Are we at second base now?”
I pause, knowing I shouldn’t listen, but Silas is never going to tell me what he’s doing, even if I ask. Besides, I’m nosy, and this concerns me, so why not?
Every time a new piece slots into place, we look at each other, and I’m reminded of how grateful I am to have him. He’s like a boyfriend, bodyguard, and colleague all in one.
“They better stay away,” Silas says. “Or you’ll fuck them up. I know,” I reply with a smile.
https://theretiredreader.com/f/masked...
July 21, 2026
This book had me hooked immediately. I was literally blushing by page 12. The chemistry between Morayo and Silas was so intense I was kicking your feet and squealing, I reread scenes just to feel it again. The elevator scene? I needed it to be at least three pages longer because the tension was too good.
Morayo is such an amazing heroine. I loved her personality, and I loved her inner monologues. She’s so independent, strong, and beautiful, but at the same time such a softie, very relatable. One of my biggest pet peeves in romance is when the protagonist gives in too quickly, Morayo made Silas earn every bit of her trust and affection and she held her boundaries, she resisted, and she didn’t fold easily, I loved that. When she called him “Mr. Marrowe” when she ‘ended things’ I’m sorry but I laughed, he hated that so much😆
The forced proximity trope was executed perfectly. Every moment between them felt electric and intentional. By Chapter 6 I was obsessed and Chapter 18? 🤭 Butterflies. Everywhere👀
Silas is a menace in the best way possible,
I highlighted:
“I can’t wait to be the one who makes her snap”
“She looks at me like she wants to destroy me, and it’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen”
and when he said “My name is Silas Rowan Marrowe” CHILLS😆
His jealousy was hilarious and perfectly written and hers too. I loved the way he defended Morayo against everyone, especially against her own family. The hummingbird nickname had to grow on me but I ended up love it so much.
Speaking of her family… the depiction of parentification and financial burden hit hard. Morayo’s loneliness, her exhaustion, her constant giving, while she was receiving zero care and appreciation made me feel protective over her because I could relate to her in more ways than one. I cursed out Dayo, Bisi, and her parents in my head more than once.
The ending was so soft and beautiful. Just Perfect. This book is very good read, I loved it and I’ll definitely be reading it again.
Morayo is such an amazing heroine. I loved her personality, and I loved her inner monologues. She’s so independent, strong, and beautiful, but at the same time such a softie, very relatable. One of my biggest pet peeves in romance is when the protagonist gives in too quickly, Morayo made Silas earn every bit of her trust and affection and she held her boundaries, she resisted, and she didn’t fold easily, I loved that. When she called him “Mr. Marrowe” when she ‘ended things’ I’m sorry but I laughed, he hated that so much😆
The forced proximity trope was executed perfectly. Every moment between them felt electric and intentional. By Chapter 6 I was obsessed and Chapter 18? 🤭 Butterflies. Everywhere👀
Silas is a menace in the best way possible,
I highlighted:
“I can’t wait to be the one who makes her snap”
“She looks at me like she wants to destroy me, and it’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen”
and when he said “My name is Silas Rowan Marrowe” CHILLS😆
His jealousy was hilarious and perfectly written and hers too. I loved the way he defended Morayo against everyone, especially against her own family. The hummingbird nickname had to grow on me but I ended up love it so much.
Speaking of her family… the depiction of parentification and financial burden hit hard. Morayo’s loneliness, her exhaustion, her constant giving, while she was receiving zero care and appreciation made me feel protective over her because I could relate to her in more ways than one. I cursed out Dayo, Bisi, and her parents in my head more than once.
The ending was so soft and beautiful. Just Perfect. This book is very good read, I loved it and I’ll definitely be reading it again.
September 20, 2026
*****Spoilers*****
This one was more a 2.5. The story got boring quickly and I didn't really feel an emotional connection between the characters. Silas was placed at his uncle's organization as an analyst so that he found determine who was corrupt and tanking the company. It's there that he meets Morayo, a Nigerian woman working in the corporation. The most qualified but least respected. Inviting by her family who want her to marry a certain doctor and be a housewife. Morayo doesn't want the doctor and certainly not the housewife life.
While investigating undercover, Silas learns that the saboteurs are going to set Morayo up to take the fall. Except that won't be happening because Silas takes an interest in Morayo, one that screams possessive. Morayo returns his feelings and they work to unravel the person they need to. The rest of the book is the two of them finding something together.
I couldn't understand why Morayo was so short with everyone all the time but it annoyed me. Her emotions and demeanor were inflexible to the extreme sometimes and she was standoffish with Silas. I still don't really understand how they bridged her professionalism so easily before they started dating. In any case, there early isn't much to this book but I didn't think it deserved a 2.
This one was more a 2.5. The story got boring quickly and I didn't really feel an emotional connection between the characters. Silas was placed at his uncle's organization as an analyst so that he found determine who was corrupt and tanking the company. It's there that he meets Morayo, a Nigerian woman working in the corporation. The most qualified but least respected. Inviting by her family who want her to marry a certain doctor and be a housewife. Morayo doesn't want the doctor and certainly not the housewife life.
While investigating undercover, Silas learns that the saboteurs are going to set Morayo up to take the fall. Except that won't be happening because Silas takes an interest in Morayo, one that screams possessive. Morayo returns his feelings and they work to unravel the person they need to. The rest of the book is the two of them finding something together.
I couldn't understand why Morayo was so short with everyone all the time but it annoyed me. Her emotions and demeanor were inflexible to the extreme sometimes and she was standoffish with Silas. I still don't really understand how they bridged her professionalism so easily before they started dating. In any case, there early isn't much to this book but I didn't think it deserved a 2.
July 21, 2026
I love books that are written well with representation that reflects my experiences so Masked Intent was a no brainer.
This book touched on more than the enemies to lovers trope. Morayo is an eldest daughter to Nigerian Immigrants and that experience was written so authentically.
I love a MMC who is unapologetically down bad for his person and Silas was giving us all that plus that possessive vibe that I’m so feral for. I love this book so much and I can’t wait to read more from this author!
Overall rating - 4.5 ⭐
Spicemeter - 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This book touched on more than the enemies to lovers trope. Morayo is an eldest daughter to Nigerian Immigrants and that experience was written so authentically.
I love a MMC who is unapologetically down bad for his person and Silas was giving us all that plus that possessive vibe that I’m so feral for. I love this book so much and I can’t wait to read more from this author!
Overall rating - 4.5 ⭐
Spicemeter - 🌶️🌶️🌶️
September 4, 2026
Almost
Been in the reading slump sink this sounded great the beginning was good that middle definitely was a little iffy I'm like come on girl we got to grow up we're going to have to start telling people we can't live for them and she came through very proud of her thank you for giving her a backbone
Been in the reading slump sink this sounded great the beginning was good that middle definitely was a little iffy I'm like come on girl we got to grow up we're going to have to start telling people we can't live for them and she came through very proud of her thank you for giving her a backbone
August 19, 2026
Loved!
This was one of my favorite reads so far this year. I loved the dynamic between Morayo and Silas (everyone needs a Silas) and the writing was phenomenal. I’m eagerly anticipating my next read from this author!
This was one of my favorite reads so far this year. I loved the dynamic between Morayo and Silas (everyone needs a Silas) and the writing was phenomenal. I’m eagerly anticipating my next read from this author!
September 5, 2026
Enjoyed it
This is a good read. There's romance, possessive hero and external conflicts to keep things interesting. I definitely recommend this book. You won't regret reading it.
This is a good read. There's romance, possessive hero and external conflicts to keep things interesting. I definitely recommend this book. You won't regret reading it.
September 10, 2026
Okay
This wax my first time reading anything from this author. I couldn't really get into the MMC. The age did not coincide with someone with that much authority or experience.
This wax my first time reading anything from this author. I couldn't really get into the MMC. The age did not coincide with someone with that much authority or experience.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews