Title: Traitor’s Masque
Author: Kenley Davidson
First published December 14, 2015
446 pages, Kindle Edition
Rating: 4.08
Overview
A Retelling of Beauty and the Beast
Isabelle has one job – deliver a message to the reclusive beast who lives in the dark and foreboding castle. What could possibly go wrong?
Everything, that’s what. After years of being mistreated by her father and brothers, Isabelle finally has a chance to escape.
The promise of a new life in exchange for her help seems simple enough. After all, the beast has only asked for one thing.
One message, one journey, and one chance to break the curse that has plagued him for years.
It should be easy. Maybe even thrilling.
Especially when she discovers the mysteries that lie within the castle walls. But before she can break the curse, Isabelle makes a shocking discovery that leaves all her hopes in ruins.
She will be forced to confront two very different paths – one that could lead to the beast’s freedom and another that could save her own life.
If she’s lucky, maybe she’ll even find love along the way.
About the Author
Meet Kenley Davidson, an imaginative author who specializes in crafting captivating stories. With a passion for clean romance, complex characters, and unexpected plot twists, Kenley is a master of both fantasy and science fiction genres.
Her inspiration flows from a steady stream of coffee and books (and the occasional cup of tea). She currently resides in Oklahoma with her husband, two kids, and two furry friends.
Kenley firmly believes that everything is better with dragons.
Kenley’s works include the compelling Legends of Abreia, a fantasy romance series that will sweep you off your feet. The Andari Chronicles is an interconnected series of fairy tale retellings that will captivate you with its charm.
Conclave Worlds is a clean sci-fi romance series that will take you on a journey through the stars.
As if that weren’t enough, Kenley also writes sweet contemporary romance under the pseudonym Kacey Linden. With such a vast array of stories to choose from, there is something for everyone in Kenley’s books.
Editoral Review
In “Traitor’s Masque,” author Kenley Davidson transports readers into a richly crafted world filled with intrigue and deception. This novel, first published in December 2015, is a piece of historical fiction set in a medieval kingdom.
Appealing to fans of the romance and fantasy genres, Davidson weaves together themes of love, loyalty, and betrayal to create a compelling and engaging read. Set in the fictional kingdom of Karthia, “Traitor’s Masque” follows the story of Lady Madeleine Valois, a noblewoman who has been banished from her family’s estate.
Madeleine is soon drawn into a plot to dethrone the king by a band of rebels, one of whom she finds herself falling in love with. As Madeleine navigates the intricacies of court politics and dangerous schemes, she must also grapple with her own conscience and the question of who she can truly trust.
Davidson excels in creating a vivid and immersive world that transports readers back in time. From the bustling streets of the capital city to the quiet countryside and the lavish palace halls, each setting is beautifully rendered with attention to detail.
Additionally, the characters are well-drawn, with complex motivations and relationships that add depth to the story. Despite its strengths, “Traitor’s Masque” is not without its flaws.
The pacing can be slow at times, and some readers may find it difficult to keep track of the many characters and their allegiances. Additionally, while the romance between Madeleine and her rebel love interest is well-done, the love triangle that develops later in the novel feels forced and unnecessary.
Overall, however, “Traitor’s Masque” is a gripping and enjoyable read that is sure to entertain fans of historical romance, particularly those interested in medieval settings. Davidson’s writing is evocative and engaging, and the story is filled with enough twists and turns to keep readers guessing until the end.
I would rate this book 4 out of 5 stars, based on its strong character development, immersive world-building, and engaging storyline. While it may not be perfect, “Traitor’s Masque” is a worthy addition to the genre and a great read for anyone seeking an escape into a world of court intrigue and forbidden love.
