Book Review: Masquerade, by Bran Lindy Ayres

Masquerade follows a genderfluid spy, variably known as Genevieve Merlot or Lafayette Goddard depending on their gender, as they uncover a plot to harm their friend and sovereign, the Queen of Orandon. It is a quick, fast-paced prequel to Bran Lindy Ayres’ novel The Jeweled Dagger, telling the story of what got our protagonist into the mess that launches the plot of the novel. It’s a treat for those, like me, who loved The Jeweled Dagger, but it could easily be read as a standalone.

Masquerade has been on my to-be-read list for a while now. I loved The Jeweled Dagger, and I was excited to see more of Genevieve/Lafayette. They’re a fun character to follow, and it was nice to get a bit more context for what they go through at the beginning of the novel.

I’ve been a sucker for court intrigue and political fantasy for a long time, but the cruddy thing about that is that most political fantasy is straight, cis, allo, white, and, after a while, very same-y. Masquerade is exactly what I wanted--all of the intrigue, but with a realistically diverse cast. It’s not another story about rich privileged white men squabbling. And, gods, is that refreshing.

The story itself had just enough worldbuilding to satisfy, without being overwhelming. This world is well-rounded and rich, but the author doesn’t dump a million new concepts and ideas in your lap with no guidebook. As much as I love political fantasy, that’s generally my biggest complaint: too much all at once, with no time to process the world you’re in before throwing plot point after plot point at you. Despite the fast pace of the story, the worldbuilding was woven in naturally, which gave it a real, lived-in feel. I could picture everything pretty easily, and thus could sit back and enjoy the actual meat of the plot.

The plot was pretty straightforward: loyal spy uncovers an enemy plot, and gets stranded away from their home country and the queen they’re desperate to protect. But it was very well-done, and made for a great curl-up-on-the-couch read. I would recommend it highly to anyone who loves spies and intrigue, and badass genderfluid main characters.

Be advised that Masquerade carries trigger warnings for racism and transphobia perpetuated by antagonists, as well as violence.

Until next time,
Jenn.

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