Book Review: Masques

By Sandy Amazeen Oct 11, 2010, 1:07 GMT

After an upbringing of proper behavior and oppressive expectations, Aralorn fled her noble birthright for a life of adventure as a mercenary spy. Her latest mission involves spying on the increasingly powerful sorcerer Geoffrey ae\'Magi. But in a war against an enemy armed with the powers of illusion, how do you know who the true enemy is-or where he will strike next? ...more

Bestselling author Briggs begins a new series by rewriting her very first novel in preparation for the upcoming sequel Wolfsbane due for release in November. After forsaking her birthright in favor of living life on her own terms, Aralorn worked as a mercenary spy answerable to Spymaster Ren. Returning from a particularly grueling assignment spying on the sorcerer Geoffrey ae’Magi, Aralorn is distressed to discover the spymaster, like much of the population, have fallen under sorcerer’s spell. While working undercover at a remote inn, news arrives that the young King Myr had slaughtered several of his own guard before fleeing the palace and a reward is offered for his return. Having briefly met Myr while captive at Geoffrey’s castle, Aralorn, realizing that account was not the full story, sets off with her sturdy warhorse and unusual companion Wolf. Aralorn had rescued Wolf from a pit trap and discovered there was much more to this telepathic animal then met the eye. Aralorn will need all her green magic, Wolf’s wisdom and the power of the ancients if she is to aid Myr in resuming his proper place on the throne and thwart Geoffrey’s cleverly laid plans.

This enjoyable story comes by its name honestly as most of the main characters keep their true natures hidden behind masks and aliases. The interactions between Aralorn, Wolf and Geoffrey hold the interest throughout Briggs early fantasy effort.