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Behind The Mask
2017 Maggie Award Winner for Best Published Paranormal/Fantasy Romance! Kassandra Darkmorr� is hiding behind the mask of humanity, living her life as nothing more than a spectator. She watches, knowing the outcome of the lives around her. They lived. They died. While she was left all alone. She never imagined one of her hospice patients would figure out what she was or ask for an explanation on her death bed. And Kassandra surely didn't expect the dying woman to give her something she hadn't had in almost two hundred years. Hope. "What you desire most is achievable. You must accept the invitation when it's presented." While on the search for her true desire, she finds the man of her one and only dream, Cyrus Good. The attraction between them is instantaneous, but Kassandra can't help but feel like something is missing. And that maybe he has secrets as sinister as Salem itself. And what about Xavier Drago? The mysterious man keeps popping up when she least expects him to. As annoying and demanding as he is, though, she can't help but be drawn to him just as intensely. It all began with an invitation, but will it end with a happily ever after?
190 pages, Paperback
Published October 23, 2017
7 people are currently reading
33 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
March 6, 2017
Kassandra is a vampire, pretending to be human, she dreams of being human. She works a few jobs one is working with blood and the other doing hospice care - one of her patients has some wise words that take her on a journey.
Her journey will take her to Salem at Halloween and the will put her in contact with Cyrus and Xavier, she feels a connection to both of these hot men and I wondered if it might turn into a menage at one point. I really liked both of the males but if I'm honest I definitely felt more from Xavier and was rooting for him.
Between the relationships developing there is a dark surprise on the horizon.
Its a good book with interesting characters and a cute epilogue to complete the story.
Her journey will take her to Salem at Halloween and the will put her in contact with Cyrus and Xavier, she feels a connection to both of these hot men and I wondered if it might turn into a menage at one point. I really liked both of the males but if I'm honest I definitely felt more from Xavier and was rooting for him.
Between the relationships developing there is a dark surprise on the horizon.
Its a good book with interesting characters and a cute epilogue to complete the story.
June 13, 2018
I received this book for free in exchange for providing a voluntary, unbiased review.
Yep, spoilers.
I liked this story. There were a few little issues I had but not deal breakers. For instance, while this book was clearly adult themed the main character seemed very immature for her 200 years.
The author attempted a love triangle situation in the storyline. The only problem was the main vampire love interest, Xavier, was an arrogant inconsiderate ass. He basically took her choices away from her through deception. That right there nullified any likability he could have had.
I liked and trusted Cyrus, the witch, more than Xavier. Since we spent more time with Cyrus inner thoughts than Xavier, it's not a surprise I liked him more.
The idea that Xavier deceived her, threatened her, then used her by withholding information from her in exchange for a night alone with her was unappealing.
So after hearing his sob life story, she is filled with so much sorrow for him, regardless of all his past transgression with her, that she sleeps with him. So of course after she has sex with him, no idea why after what happened the last time, we are now to believe she's completely in love with him. Sorry, no.
If we had more time with Xavier's inner thoughts we may have been able to understand his reasons for his initial deception and threats towards Cassandra.
Also, I'm not fully understanding the idea of vampires not wanting to talk or socialize with one another. Specially with the knowledge that a young vampire can turn dangerous if they don't properly feed themselves.
I like the idea of the vampires being a different species and born. What I didn't understand was the biology of them being born, going through a transition, then becoming "dead"? Why would they NOT have a need to breath and eat normal food as well as drink blood to sustain them. You would think that the others would at least tell the young, hey, you don't have to kill to feed.
Other than those few things the story was okay, didn't take itself too seriously and the reader was good.
Yep, spoilers.
I liked this story. There were a few little issues I had but not deal breakers. For instance, while this book was clearly adult themed the main character seemed very immature for her 200 years.
The author attempted a love triangle situation in the storyline. The only problem was the main vampire love interest, Xavier, was an arrogant inconsiderate ass. He basically took her choices away from her through deception. That right there nullified any likability he could have had.
I liked and trusted Cyrus, the witch, more than Xavier. Since we spent more time with Cyrus inner thoughts than Xavier, it's not a surprise I liked him more.
The idea that Xavier deceived her, threatened her, then used her by withholding information from her in exchange for a night alone with her was unappealing.
So after hearing his sob life story, she is filled with so much sorrow for him, regardless of all his past transgression with her, that she sleeps with him. So of course after she has sex with him, no idea why after what happened the last time, we are now to believe she's completely in love with him. Sorry, no.
If we had more time with Xavier's inner thoughts we may have been able to understand his reasons for his initial deception and threats towards Cassandra.
Also, I'm not fully understanding the idea of vampires not wanting to talk or socialize with one another. Specially with the knowledge that a young vampire can turn dangerous if they don't properly feed themselves.
I like the idea of the vampires being a different species and born. What I didn't understand was the biology of them being born, going through a transition, then becoming "dead"? Why would they NOT have a need to breath and eat normal food as well as drink blood to sustain them. You would think that the others would at least tell the young, hey, you don't have to kill to feed.
Other than those few things the story was okay, didn't take itself too seriously and the reader was good.
September 3, 2018
Read in the VAMPIRE IN LOVE box set.
One hell of an intriguing and gripping tale that left me sad and happy. A strange sensation.
Started off with me wanting to slap Kassandra upside the head for her thinking and attitude.
Was not sure of the ending and though I loved it I felt there was not a real definition of who the real hero was. Cyrus and Xavier were both wonderful to me but I felt we did not get enough time with Xavier to truly make a decision.
One hell of an intriguing and gripping tale that left me sad and happy. A strange sensation.
Started off with me wanting to slap Kassandra upside the head for her thinking and attitude.
Was not sure of the ending and though I loved it I felt there was not a real definition of who the real hero was. Cyrus and Xavier were both wonderful to me but I felt we did not get enough time with Xavier to truly make a decision.
April 26, 2017
LOVED it. It's more than a fun paranormal story; there's a lesson laced within the pages. So. Good. I absolutely love the journey Kassy took to find herself and the outcome of said journey far exceeded her expectations. The epilogue is sweet and had me smiling too.
June 2, 2017
It had its good points but there were aspects I just couldn't get past. I wish that there was a bit more details.
It was a good blend of vampire and witches. There's violence, sex, love and a bit of suspense.
It was a good blend of vampire and witches. There's violence, sex, love and a bit of suspense.
June 4, 2017
Change up
A different vamp book. A real personal look at a vamp struggling with her own desires. I haven't read many storylines such as this, but the author does a good job and can take you there.
A different vamp book. A real personal look at a vamp struggling with her own desires. I haven't read many storylines such as this, but the author does a good job and can take you there.
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February 6, 2024Prch Amz Feb. 3, 2024
March 18, 2017
This is the second vampire book I have read by this author, the first being the Enduring Kiss. I love the worlds and characters the author creates. This one had a good story of accepting who you are...darkness and all. So glad Kassy ended up with who she did.
October 20, 2016
My review of Behind the Mask by C.E. Black
As with any of this author’s books, I had high expectations and was prepared for the level of excellence I have come to expect. The quality of writing, the ebb and flow of storytelling, and the complex execution of character development were flawless. A true pleasure to read a story and work of this calibre. C.E. Black is a precious gem in an industry that can lose it lustre from over-saturation.
In Behind The Mask, we are introduced to a world that is rich with magic and the supernatural.
Kassandra is a lonely vampire wishing for the return to humanity. She is repulsed by her vampiric nature and urges, denying them to a dangerous point. Desperately seeking her place amongst the living again, her desire leads her to the town of Salem, where she is forced to make a choice of the heart and face the realization about acceptance.
Cyrus is a witch. He has been drawn to the ethereal beauty that is Kassandra through sensual visions that leave him believing they are fated. Realizing that she can be the key to their safety against an approaching darkness, he is consumed with the need to bring her to his beloved town.
Xavier is another vampire and the epitome of everything dark and dangerous, arriving into Kassandra’s life just as she believes her greatest wish is within reach. Confusing her with his cryptic messages and the passion he stirs within, she embarks on her path to seek her deepest desire, or so she believes.
Will Kassandra find her humanity in Salem, or the beating of her undead heart? Will the handsome Cyrus be the one to unlock her humanity, or will the smoldering Xavier offer her something far greater?
The messages hidden in this beautiful story are ones that speak to the human heart in all of us. They force us to take a closer look at ourselves and what we believe define us. Even in a world of paranormal creatures and supernatural themes, the humanity in the messages bleed off the pages. A truly magical reading experience.
As with any of this author’s books, I had high expectations and was prepared for the level of excellence I have come to expect. The quality of writing, the ebb and flow of storytelling, and the complex execution of character development were flawless. A true pleasure to read a story and work of this calibre. C.E. Black is a precious gem in an industry that can lose it lustre from over-saturation.
In Behind The Mask, we are introduced to a world that is rich with magic and the supernatural.
Kassandra is a lonely vampire wishing for the return to humanity. She is repulsed by her vampiric nature and urges, denying them to a dangerous point. Desperately seeking her place amongst the living again, her desire leads her to the town of Salem, where she is forced to make a choice of the heart and face the realization about acceptance.
Cyrus is a witch. He has been drawn to the ethereal beauty that is Kassandra through sensual visions that leave him believing they are fated. Realizing that she can be the key to their safety against an approaching darkness, he is consumed with the need to bring her to his beloved town.
Xavier is another vampire and the epitome of everything dark and dangerous, arriving into Kassandra’s life just as she believes her greatest wish is within reach. Confusing her with his cryptic messages and the passion he stirs within, she embarks on her path to seek her deepest desire, or so she believes.
Will Kassandra find her humanity in Salem, or the beating of her undead heart? Will the handsome Cyrus be the one to unlock her humanity, or will the smoldering Xavier offer her something far greater?
The messages hidden in this beautiful story are ones that speak to the human heart in all of us. They force us to take a closer look at ourselves and what we believe define us. Even in a world of paranormal creatures and supernatural themes, the humanity in the messages bleed off the pages. A truly magical reading experience.
February 19, 2017
Loved it.
The book started off well but I was a bit confused about were the witch came into all of it but the way everything went it kept me going. And I like books that you don't know what's going on till it happens. Like the cat turning into a human and trying to kill everyone.
The book started off well but I was a bit confused about were the witch came into all of it but the way everything went it kept me going. And I like books that you don't know what's going on till it happens. Like the cat turning into a human and trying to kill everyone.
November 16, 2016
I voluntarily reviewed a Reader Copy of this book.
Kassandra Darkmorre is living as a human and working as a hospice carer for the terminally ill, but also has a part-time job in the local blood bank at the hospital. She generally lives a quiet life watching people move to life's end until one of her patients astounds her by giving her the hope she has not had for the 200 years if her existence and a message to take an invitation when it is presented to her.
She also seems to have got herself in the middle of a love triangle - on the one side is Cyrus Good who she has seen in her dreams, and then on the other side is Xavier Drago who she is drawn to and keeps popping up in her life. Will she sort out her feelings for these two men and will she find the confidence and ability to have the future she desires?
I enjoyed this book and the way it was written. Descriptions and emotions were clearly described even if I felt myself getting irritated with Kassy sometimes. I did especially enjoy the merge between the worlds of magic and vampires and how the path of true love has a few bumps on the way.
Kassandra Darkmorre is living as a human and working as a hospice carer for the terminally ill, but also has a part-time job in the local blood bank at the hospital. She generally lives a quiet life watching people move to life's end until one of her patients astounds her by giving her the hope she has not had for the 200 years if her existence and a message to take an invitation when it is presented to her.
She also seems to have got herself in the middle of a love triangle - on the one side is Cyrus Good who she has seen in her dreams, and then on the other side is Xavier Drago who she is drawn to and keeps popping up in her life. Will she sort out her feelings for these two men and will she find the confidence and ability to have the future she desires?
I enjoyed this book and the way it was written. Descriptions and emotions were clearly described even if I felt myself getting irritated with Kassy sometimes. I did especially enjoy the merge between the worlds of magic and vampires and how the path of true love has a few bumps on the way.
November 25, 2016
This book was a very fast paced book with a few twists and turns that I wasn't expecting. Vampires, witches and things that go bump in the night. Why are there so many people being hurt around the same places that Kassandra always happens to be? You really must read to find out :-)
April 19, 2017
I love to read vampire novels & have read hundreds of them. So, to say that this one is unique is saying a lot!
Kassandra is a reluctant vampire who doesn't want to hurt humans in order to stay alive by feeding from them. She is given the chance to travel to Salem & thinks that she will be able to find a witch who can make her human. Add in a creature disguised as a cute house cat, a hunky vamp who threatens to kill Kassandra if she succumbs to blood lust & Halloween in Salem & you have a great book!
Well-written, likeable characters, some steamy sex & action at the hands of a creature that is never names & I would recommend this book to anybody who loves PNR.
Kassandra is a reluctant vampire who doesn't want to hurt humans in order to stay alive by feeding from them. She is given the chance to travel to Salem & thinks that she will be able to find a witch who can make her human. Add in a creature disguised as a cute house cat, a hunky vamp who threatens to kill Kassandra if she succumbs to blood lust & Halloween in Salem & you have a great book!
Well-written, likeable characters, some steamy sex & action at the hands of a creature that is never names & I would recommend this book to anybody who loves PNR.
April 20, 2017
This story is well written for a short novel. I found it very interesting. A born vampire who goes to visit Salem after a mysterious dream requesting her to go. I love how the things work out in this novel. Not only does she have that happen not even several hours before she meets a mysterious another born vampire. Amazing how a love triangle becomes possible all within a very short time span after going decades alone.
Kassandra's character I really enjoyed she is a strong character who dreams of being something she is not, a normal human. She was there but away. Until Xavier comes along and of course instant attraction. I really enjoyed him. Them to together had true chemistry. Then we have Cyrus. His character was alright. His premonition of her was interesting to say the least and the instant attraction that always seems to happen in these books. The live triangle although was there was very weak. Not sure why they added it except maybe to build some suspense. Overall though well written and I enjoyed.
I received this audiobook in exchange for an honest unbiased review
--Full Review On www.novelnerdreviews.com ----
Kassandra's character I really enjoyed she is a strong character who dreams of being something she is not, a normal human. She was there but away. Until Xavier comes along and of course instant attraction. I really enjoyed him. Them to together had true chemistry. Then we have Cyrus. His character was alright. His premonition of her was interesting to say the least and the instant attraction that always seems to happen in these books. The live triangle although was there was very weak. Not sure why they added it except maybe to build some suspense. Overall though well written and I enjoyed.
I received this audiobook in exchange for an honest unbiased review
--Full Review On www.novelnerdreviews.com ----
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews