Masque of the Red Death (Masque of the Red Death, #1) by Bethany Griffin

Mar 26, 2012 Wendy Darling rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult, dystopian-post-apocalyptic-utopian, 2012-publication, steampunk, read-2012, 2012-favorites, costume-fiction, april, harpercollins, retellings

Ah, steampunk libertines! Who'd have thought they'd be so appealing?

Books that are heavily influenced by classic stories are always tricky, particularly when it's as ambitious an undertaking as a story inspired by the Edgar Allan Poe classic. I loved the lavish setting and moodiness of the original story, so I had my doubts that anything could come close to capturing its crazy vibe. But somehow Bethany Griffin has managed to create a very similarly dark, extravagant feeling in her gothic adapta...more

147 likes · like · see review

Apr 17, 2012 Lauren DeStefano rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: knife-factor

This book has the knife factor. It’s one of the books that held a blade to my throat and said, “Tell the world about me.”

I was blessed with an opportunity to read this book last summer, as a Word document. Each time I had to set it down I felt utterly unhinged, obsessed, distraught, curious. And moreover, excited, because from page one, I knew that this was something great. While readers were discussing the fabulous books of 2011, I was smug to know that 2012 would promise more great additions...more

86 likes · like · see review

Mar 31, 2012 karen rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: why-yes-i-ya

i am unable to see magic eye puzzles. whether it is my astigmatism or whatever is miswired in my brain that was giving me that off-brand epilepsy some years back, i am not able to get the same joy as others out of those things.

but i enjoy the enjoyment of others.

and i was really excited to find this on the free shelves at work, knowing that other people had really loved it.

but for me, it wasn't a home run.i don't see it.

the premise is great - it is not a retelling of poe's story, but it borro...more

88 likes · like · see review

May 17, 2012 Giselle rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, ebook, steampunk

Masque of the Red Death has been my most anticipated book of the year since I discovered it last September. I was obviously first attracted to it by its cover, followed by its premise that talks of a gothic setting, a plague apocalypse, and a Debauchery club… need I say more?

As far as steampunk novels go, this is easily my favorite. I absolutely loved the atmosphere throughout the story. The ruined city, the dangers in the streets, the masks, the disease; it's dark and it's dreary, with intrica...more Masque of the Red Death has been my most anticipated book of the year since I discovered it last September. I was obviously first attracted to it by its cover, followed by its premise that talks of a gothic setting, a plague apocalypse, and a Debauchery club… need I say more?

As far as steampunk novels go, this is easily my favorite. I absolutely loved the atmosphere throughout the story. The ruined city, the dangers in the streets, the masks, the disease; it's dark and it's dreary, with intricate details that had me truly envisioning this world in disrepair, full of mortality. The always present danger of this easily contracted death is palpable. It gave me shivers and made me cringe. Bethany clearly did not falter in her world building. Its unwavering somber ambiance constantly propels us in a dying world so different from our own, yet, frighteningly not inconceivable.

Inside this disintegrating world lives Araby. Living with the guilt of losing her twin brother, she's dealing with her grief in form of punishment by not experiencing life to its fullest. Or at least, nothing Finn didn't get the chance to. This, to me, was incredibly sad. I felt sorry for her especially because she is blinded by her despair; incapacitated. However, when she meets Will with his gorgeous looks, and Elliott with his master plans, things start to improve. Both of these guys are full of charm; even through my misgivings, I kept a liking for both of them. Their vast differences make them both terribly appealing, while their intentions left me with unabated curiosity and doubt.

I would not consider this a very fast paced book. Nevertheless, the literary style kept me completely mesmerized by the vastly detailed world and likeable characters. The writing is noticeably elegant; the beautiful flow creates an experience where a fast pace is not necessary to enjoy its execution. But I still wouldn't have minded digging a little deeper inside the fundamental plot line instead of only getting twists (albeit fascinating) that lead to a big foreshadowing of what's to come.

Since I haven't read Edgar Allen Poe's original work, I can't comment on the comparison, but I was positively impressed with Bethany Griffin's Masque of the Red Death: an exquisitely woven tale both lavish and ominous.

--
For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads

(less)

36 likes · like · see review

Mar 05, 2012 Lyndsey rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: about-viruses-disease-plagues, genre-steampunk, genre-young-adult, covers-nomnomnom, mc-seventeen, content-drug-use, romance-love-triangle, about-mutual-chaste-bed-sleeping, worldbuilding-whimsy, romance-rated-pg-13, my-top-dystopian-or-utopian, favorites-of-2012, books-read-in-2012, rated-4-and-a-half-stars

Masque of the Red Death is oh so deliciously dark and twisty!

4.5 stars!

I adore dark, fantastical and overly dramatic stories. Who's with me? Let's go kick some flying monkeys, everyone! Kidding, kidding. Please guys, treat your flying monkeys with respect. Oz just wouldn't be as much fun without them.

The Rundown

Araby Worth lives in a chilling death-ridden world, where every day is a struggle to keep from contracting a deadly plague. Dead bodies litter the streets and air-filtering masks are nec...more

59 likes · like · see review

Apr 01, 2013 Willowfaerie rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: apocalypse, dystopia, steampunk

There's a part of me that thinks maybe I've been too hard on this, but I'm going to let the two star review stand.

Araby Worth is the teenage daughter of a brilliant scientist who lives in the ritzy part of a plague city. Most nights she goes out with her vapid friend April to the exclusive Debauchery Club to do drugs and walk around. All the rich people wear masks and travel in steamcoaches to protect them from disease, while the poor wallow in dead bodies.

This story is mostly about Araby runn...more There's a part of me that thinks maybe I've been too hard on this, but I'm going to let the two star review stand.

Araby Worth is the teenage daughter of a brilliant scientist who lives in the ritzy part of a plague city. Most nights she goes out with her vapid friend April to the exclusive Debauchery Club to do drugs and walk around. All the rich people wear masks and travel in steamcoaches to protect them from disease, while the poor wallow in dead bodies.

This story is mostly about Araby running around with drug dealer and nutcase, Elliot, as he talks about overthrowing his evil Uncle Prospero. Why Araby thinks Elliot will be a better ruler than Prospero is beyond me, but she decides to throw in with him and betray her father. I suppose she validates this because she feels unloved by her parents. Her father has been distant ever since her brother died.

But this is the main problem I had with Araby. She’s a shallow, self-absorbed slime. I have little sympathy for someone who puts her family in danger for no real concrete reason. It’s not like she ever trusts Elliot either. She knows he’s psycho. So when she’s puts her faith in him, it just makes her look stupid. And when she tells herself she’s just helping Elliot to save April, you know she’s full of crap.

Does a heroine have to be likable for me to like a book? I hope not. It’s kind of nauseating though when the author tries to make her shallow heroine look sympathetic by having her mourn a lost brother. Araby uses that brother too as an excuse for not being intimate. Toward the end, during the exciting climax, Araby finally reveals the horrible story about how her brother died, and I’m thinking, what? You’re going to talk about this now during an action scene?

Despite that one big reveal, there are few answers in this book. Details about the plague, Araby’s father, and the evil Prospero are left vague, with shocking tidbits thrown in here and there, nothing conclusive. How the plague is passed around and how long it’s infected the city is a mystery. Araby’s father is a mystery. What makes it even worse, Araby steals her father’s journal and carries it around with her through half the book. This book has answers. You'd think she'd be dying to read it. Does she? Hell no. Why? I have no frickin’ clue! She has plenty of chances. I guess she likes being in the dark. As a reader though, you want to reach through the book and smack her.

There’s of course a love triangle, which I didn’t really care about. If Araby falls for Elliot she has rocks in her head. Consequently, I’m convinced she will end up with him.

The world is nonsensical and gothy with girls dressed in red corsets and men decorated in swirling tattoos. Elaborate tunnels (built for absolutely no reason) are under the city and lead to the castle. Plague infested bats hide in the nooks and crannies of the city. My favorite is the carriers that live in marshes. They’re kind of like zombies, covered in weeping sores filled with pus, who stare at Araby along the shore. I kept asking myself, isn’t a true carrier someone who doesn’t get infected, yet passes the disease? But hey that’s not important.

Yet with all this fun, you’re probably wondering, why didn’t I enjoy this book? I will tell you. It was because the story is not compelling and it was sloppy. None of the world building was given any real thought. Griffin’s world consists of nothing but gothy pictures, like the kind you'd find from a tarot deck. Good steampunk should offer an alternative timeline, delectable gadgets and enlightening revelations. This book has none of that. There’s no substance. Plus the book didn’t end. I’m getting tired of YA books that do this. Grrrr

**
(less)

21 likes · like · see review

Apr 15, 2012 Sam rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc-or-galley, science-fiction, dystopia-or-post-apocalyptic, post-apocalyptic, steampunk, love-triangle

3.5 stars

Masque of the Red Death draws out the dark themes of Edgar Allan Poe’s original work and moulds it into something distinctive, gothic, and strangely mesmerising. In this bleak world, the Weeping Sickness silently storms the streets, and the so-called ‘corpse collectors’ trail along behind it. Araby, our protagonist, is among those with status due to her father’s role in formulating the porcelain masks that protect wearers from the contagion. The need to survive has withered the quality...more 3.5 stars

Masque of the Red Death draws out the dark themes of Edgar Allan Poe’s original work and moulds it into something distinctive, gothic, and strangely mesmerising. In this bleak world, the Weeping Sickness silently storms the streets, and the so-called ‘corpse collectors’ trail along behind it. Araby, our protagonist, is among those with status due to her father’s role in formulating the porcelain masks that protect wearers from the contagion. The need to survive has withered the quality of life, leaving the poor and maskless helpless to the effects of the sickness while the rich and elite, including young Araby and friend April, lose themselves in drug use and sensual indulgence at places such as the ‘Debauchery Club’.

Although the premise isn’t entirely unique – deadly diseases of some form posing a risk to human survival is an ever-present idea in fiction – Bethany Griffin does a commendable job with this particular story and managed to draw me in with eagerness and curiosity, despite my earlier misgivings. While it may not have been quite as compelling as I had hoped, the book overall proved to be a mostly engaging and worthwhile read.

Most, if not all, of the slight issues I had with this book lay with the lacklustre start. The light world-building was easily appreciated, and the characters, although a little distant, were not too difficult to invest some interest in. The problem lay with the fact it was nothing astonishing – I didn’t feel as though I would have had any trouble putting the book away for a while and flicking through something else instead. Perhaps that is more of a personal reaction to the book. After having finished a 5 star read and (although I shouldn’t have) having indulged in a couple of chapters of a Melina Marchetta book, I suppose the writing paled in comparison. Nevertheless, a small handful of chapters later, it became easier to lose myself into Bethany Griffin’s world and I did so willingly.

Once the story set sail for me, I began to appreciate the finer details of the plot. It isn’t a particularly complex one, but it remains engaging through to the end, particularly during the climactic scenes. The ending itself was a little disappointing purely for the fact I would have enjoyed a further few chapters rather than to have been expecting more after the extravagant build-up, but it does ensure that I will be back to read the sequel.

Though I suppose the love-triangle is another reason I will be back for more. Don’t misunderstand that to mean I enjoyed the love triangle (perhaps I did a little, but I will never admit it) – I am eager to uncover more about both Elliot and Will so I can finally make up my mind. By that I mean I want to have more of a reason to pick Elliot over Will or Will over Elliot. I know several readers have embraced the love triangle with open arms – two complex characters to fall for and, for a change, it isn’t easy to latch onto one ignore the other – but I prefer knowing who my loyalties lie with. I will applaud the author for making it incredibly difficult to decide, even despite that little twist near the end. It is definitely an intriguing situation she has concocted for us and I am more than eager to see how it plays out.

Despite the slow start to this book, it turned out to be a deeply atmospheric read and the story line grew more appealing as the book progressed. The dark tone and the layered characters added to the story and I am looking forward to more of that in the sequel.

(This review also appears on my blog)
(less)

25 likes · like · see review

May 08, 2012 Tatiana marked it as abandoned Recommends it for: people who want to read another version of Wither

Shelves: dystopias-post-apocalyptic, series-dropped-lost-steam, ya, why-the-hype, ala-ya-2013

I really hate being a constant Debbie Downer, but, this is another throwaway, unfortunately. I've been unlucky with my book picks lately, as you can tell.

So, Masque of the Red Death. Conceptually interesting and, might I say, stylish - plague, porcelain masques, corsets, steam carriages, debauchery.

But why must it be, essentially, just like every other book that's been published in the genre over the last year or so? I've lost count of how many times I've read the same elements of this story:...more

51 likes · like · see review

May 16, 2012 Stacia ~ Mistress of Mediocrity rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Fans of Burn Bright

Shelves: young-adult

I was the first person ever to breathe through a mask.

Imagine living in a world where the most important thing you need to survive is also the very same thing that could take your life.

"I need some fresh air."
"Then by all means, go outside. If it doesn't clear your head, it will probably kill you."

Araby lives among the sick and dying. The only thing which separates her from the less fortunate is her accessibility to the air-filtering masks which are credited for sustaining life. Most peopl...more

18 likes · like · see review

Oct 14, 2012 April rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: for-review, ya, dystopian, horror

I’m pretty sure that the works of Edgar Allan Poe make for awesome source material as evidenced by Nevermore and NOW by Bethany Griffin in Masque Of The RedDeath. It feels cliche to type this, but Masque Of The Red Death transported me to a place where fear of airborne pathogens rules the streets and there is a rather stark division between main character Araby Worth’s gilded world of privilege and the world of the underclass.

Read the rest of my review here

8 likes · like · see review

Apr 11, 2013 Crystal Starr Light rated it 2 of 5 stars

Recommended to Crystal Starr Light by: Willowfaerie

Shelves: amazon-vine, young-adult, romance-in-disguise, idiot-protagonist, hello-my-name-is-mary-sue, ha-ha-ha-no-really, so-bad-it-s-good, what-the-hell-did-i-just-read, i-whine-therefore-i-am

First off, I'd like to thank the magnificent Willowfaerie for her magnificent review of this...erm...book that inspired me to get off my @$$ and finally review this Amazon Vine ARC.

Secondly, I was PLAUGED with this book from Amazon Vine. I couldn't find a MASQUE anywhere that could PREVENT this DISEASE.

Thirdly, while I have adopted a new 25% rule, I didn't use it on this book for two reasons. Number 1, I like to make an effort to read Vine books all the way through, and Number 2, I was too engro...more

6 likes · like · see review

view all 17 comments

Shae Edwards To me, this book seemed like she sold it on concept and then had VERY little time to write it. It was just a rushed mess. I also couldn't figure out t...more
May 19, 2013 10:04pm

Crystal Starr Light Shae wrote: "To me, this book seemed like she sold it on concept and then had VERY little time to write it. It was just a rushed mess. I also couldn't...more
May 19, 2013 10:52pm

Mar 29, 2012 Soumi(in love with Puck) Roy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc-e-galley, books-i-reviewed, young-adult, dystopian

The figure was tall and gaunt, and shrouded from head to foot in the habiliments of the grave. The mask which concealed the visage was made so nearly to resemble the countenance of a stiffened corpse that the closest scrutiny must have had difficulty in detecting the cheat. And yet all this might have been endured, if not approved, by the mad revelers around. But the mummer had gone so far as to assume the type of the Red Death. His vesture was dabbled in blood--and his broad brow, with all the...more

9 likes · like · see review

Apr 15, 2012 Arlene rated it 4 of 5 stars

Recommended to Arlene by: Rachel

Shelves: arc, dress-me-up, read-2012, ya-fantasy, reviews-with-music, young-adult

In Masque of the Red Death, Araby lives in a time and place where death is as certain as a careless breath without protection. However, trusting others is just as dangerous and deadly as the Weeping Sickness that plagues her world.

I think every avid book reader has a hook… something that draws them to a story despite what the book jacket says about the possible adventure. For some it might simply be the genre, for others it could be a setting or time maybe even a character’s name, but for me, I...more

13 likes · like · see review

May 20, 2012 Glass rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, dystopia, love-the-cover, retelling, arc, steampunk

I do not have lots of stempunk novels on my "read" list so far, but I like the general idea behind this genre - alternate history and "what if?" base of the story. I was afraid to read Masque of the Red Death - my expectations were really high.

It started shaky - I liked the the decadent atmsphere and descriptions, but characters seemed somehow superficial. I wasn't sure how I felt about it. But later I got caught up in its strange, dark, drug-abussing, glittery world. I've noticed that some rev...more

6 likes · like · see review

Jan 27, 2013 Oceana Fern {Assorted Insanity} rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: paranormal-romance-fiction, cover-lust, owned, science-fiction-romance, young-adult, three-stars

This book was a huge disappointment. I wanted to like it so much, and I ended up indifferent to it, not because of the plague part - the romance took so much out of the grade for this book.

I found that I didn't give a crap about Will and Elliot, and I hated them both. I had a hard time relating to Araby, but I liked her after a while. I was extremely confused in the first chapter (had she met Will before?) but after that, I was good. The writing and the horror blew my mind; this book was DARK an...more

10 likes · like · see review

Feb 13, 2012 Alyssa marked it as asap-release

Yay! In one of my favourite genres comes a new series by one of my favourite authors! Can't wait to hear more!

5 likes · like · see review

Apr 13, 2012 Justine rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: must-read-2012, dystopia, young-adult, steampunk

When I first saw this book I thought... Oh a retelling of Edgar Alan Poe's "The Mask of the Red Death" but, although there a few similar features Bethany Griffins novel is an exquisitely dark dystopian novel that deserves to stand by itself.

Masque of the Red Death is one of those books that doesn't hold back; it had me hooked from the very first page. The plot has so many twists, turns and omg moments that you never know what's coming next.

Our main character Araby is best described as a shell.....more When I first saw this book I thought... Oh a retelling of Edgar Alan Poe's "The Mask of the Red Death" but, although there a few similar features Bethany Griffins novel is an exquisitely dark dystopian novel that deserves to stand by itself.

Masque of the Red Death is one of those books that doesn't hold back; it had me hooked from the very first page. The plot has so many twists, turns and omg moments that you never know what's coming next.

Our main character Araby is best described as a shell... She isn't really a whole person in the beginning of the novel. She is mourning her brother and carrying around guilt that isn't deserved. Araby has made an oath to Finn not to never experience any of the things he can't. Mostly, this means not feeling happiness. To escape and find oblivion from the pain she feels she goes to The Debauchery Club with her best friend April, where she hides her pain in beautiful dresses, alcohol and drugs.

One of the most interesting aspects of the story is the love triangle if that's what I would call it between Araby, Elliot and Will.

Elliot, who is Aprils brother comes across as a broken yet focused individual who at first fakes his feelings for Araby as a means to an end. However, as the story moves along we see that Elliot's feelings become real even though he tries to fight them. Elliot is a complex character that endeared himself to me over time.

Will, is a complete polar opposite to Elliot... He comes across as warm, caring and approachable. Will works hard at the Debauchery Club as a doorman, testing patrons before they enter to see if they are contagious. He does this to support his younger brother and sister who come to adore Araby just as much as Will. Although Will seems to be the easy pick out of two things aren't always that black and white.

All the characters and their back stories are generously described. Each has their own secrets, and was a pleasure to read about. Griffin's writing makes it easy to connect with the main characters and to empathise with their feelings and situation.

The mood of Masque of the Red Death is intense, eerie and quite frankly, menacing. People are dropping dead on the street while the rest flee in disgust and terror yet there is also a feeling of numbness about it all. I like many readers I imagine would see a similarity to what it might have been like to live through "The Plague". Houses boarded up, signs on the door marking where the diseased or dead are, body collectors with carts moving along the streets and an undercurrent of fear and violence. The description of the disease made my stomach turn and if that wasn't bad enough a new disease starts to spread at the end, which makes the first seem like a fluffy kitten!

Overall, Masque of the Red Death is a freakishly imaginative and exciting novel! Get this book as soon as you can because, you will not be disappointed!

I also just need to say... arghh to a twist near the end that left me reeling! You have been warned ;D
(less)

3 likes · like · see review

Mar 24, 2012 Isamlq rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc-galley

The Masque of Red Death is a little hard to describe. It’s little bit of steampunk, a little bit of dystopia, and a little bit of romance. Though there’s nothing “little” about the story. And while I’m feeling the comings of a fan girl gush, but I’m controlling myself.

It’s set in some an alternate world, after a disease has killed so many and left more feeling hopeless. Among them is a girl throwing her life away. Along with a couple of boys who had me questioning their integrity. Were they any...more The Masque of Red Death is a little hard to describe. It’s little bit of steampunk, a little bit of dystopia, and a little bit of romance. Though there’s nothing “little” about the story. And while I’m feeling the comings of a fan girl gush, but I’m controlling myself.

It’s set in some an alternate world, after a disease has killed so many and left more feeling hopeless. Among them is a girl throwing her life away. Along with a couple of boys who had me questioning their integrity. Were they any of them good or bad for that matter? And it wasn’t once or twice either that I wondered: they consistently kept me guessing.

The steampunk bit is not overwhelming at all. In fact, past the mention of a carriage and what not… it’s so matter of fact in presentation, that it felt very natural and not once shoved in my face (this was much appreciated.) So maybe it’s better qualified as steampunk-lite. It’s the dystopian aspect that’s more obvious with everyone feeling so hopeless and dark. The world described is depressing and bleak so much so that I bought why they were all acting the way they were.

The romantic aspect too was a bit different. I was not at all bothered by the makings of a triangle. The girl’s options were just so different from the standard. Where one was powerful and driven, he could also be manipulative and selfish. The other too seemed kind and stalwart and present, but later things proved otherwise. I was greatly impressed with them, if only because they kept me guessing.

What’s better is how said romantic aspect(s) DID NOT take over the story. Hers is a dark world with one (or two) megalomaniacs looming in the background. The threat that both posed was interesting…. but the slow reveal to who was who and what one had in mind was mad thrilling. And after all those revelations, well… I'm feeling all:

(view spoiler)

So while not one of them are perfectly good, they’re all quite different from the norm. Were this a movie, i'd hit playback over and over and over again.

April 24th needs to get here quickly; I need a hard copy of this right now.

3.5/5

Thanks Edelweiss!(less)

5 likes · like · see review

Mar 27, 2012 Autumn rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: at-home

I'm giving it 3 stars, but it's somewhere more like 3 1/2. I really like the YA post apocalyptic dystopian genre, but I'm really starting to get bored with it. They're starting to get entirely too formulaic. There's always an evil government plot, always a rebellion, always a deeply flawed female main character who gets involved with 2 gorgeous guys. How many recent books fit into that description?

On to this book in particular, there were elements that I did enjoy. I liked that the city was neve...more

4 likes · like · see review

May 22, 2012 Emily rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, own, for-review, arc, book-boyfriends, dystopian, favorites, historical-fiction, love-the-cover, love-triangle, really-liked, review, ya-romance, young-adult, steampunk

*An ARC was provided by Harper Collins in exchange for an honest review*

I just have one question for myself: Why on earth did I wait this long to read this book?! Can anyone answer that??!! :P

I loved it. Loved loved loved it. It was amazing. The writing was good, the story line was good, and the idea was good. If I had to say one bad thing it was that some of the events (like Araby meeting Will) were really sudden and kind of weird because they had no build to them, but other than that this book...more

5 likes · like · see review

Feb 01, 2012 Kelly rated it 5 of 5 stars

We’ve all read the Masque of the Red Death by Edgar Allan Poe. But have you ever wondered what kind of state the world would have to be in for such a tale to take place?
In Bethany Griffin’s gripping novel (which shares its title with Poe’s story) we are swept into the inner-workings of a bleak realm. The world has been devestated by a fierce contagion. Everyone must wear masks. Everyone is at risk.
I adored this novel and I’m still reeling from the last few chapters especially. Part Steampunk,...more

27 likes · like · see review

Jun 25, 2012 Lindsay rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-i-own, cover-lust

Well I just typed a whole review that didn't save which made me really mad. So I'll just highlight really quick stuff:

-Loved Araby, awesome dark and new heroine
-Team Will screw Elliot
-Writing was awesome
-Araby's best friend what's her face annoyed me
-Hate love triangles
-Good plot
-Strange ending
-Dead twin why?

Overall the book was...alright.

Rating: 3 out of 5 Stars

5 likes · like · see review

Feb 22, 2013 ~ mariya ~ rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: fans of the Soulless series and steampunk

Shelves: young-adult, steampunk, dystopia, gothic

WOW! If this isn't one of the best, most creepiest suspenseful supernatural gothic steampunk novels, then I don't know what is. This book was a forgasmic adventure full of steam fueled carriages, hot air balloons, flying ships, disease carrying bats, corsets, debauchery, murder, masks, and court intrigue!

The main character is Araby Worth - the daughter of a famous scientist that has invented a special mask to protect people from the plague that is sweeping the city. Araby is brought up in rich c...more

2 likes · like · see review

Oct 04, 2012 Lottie Eve rated it 4 of 5 stars

Everything is in ruins.

A devastating plague has decimated the population, and those who are left live in fear of catching it as the city crumbles around them.

So what does Araby Worth have to live for?

Nights in the Debauchery Club, beautiful dresses, glittery makeup . . . and tantalizing ways to forget it all.

But in the depths of the club–in the depths of her own despair–Araby will find more than oblivion. She will find Will, the terribly handsome proprietor of the club, and Elliott, the wickedly...more Everything is in ruins.

A devastating plague has decimated the population, and those who are left live in fear of catching it as the city crumbles around them.

So what does Araby Worth have to live for?

Nights in the Debauchery Club, beautiful dresses, glittery makeup . . . and tantalizing ways to forget it all.

But in the depths of the club–in the depths of her own despair–Araby will find more than oblivion. She will find Will, the terribly handsome proprietor of the club, and Elliott, the wickedly smart aristocrat. Neither is what he seems. Both have secrets. Everyone does.

And Araby may find not just something to live for, but something to fight for–no matter what it costs her.

I really enjoyed reading this! Masque of the Red death had some very uncommon stuff for the YA genre: Drug use, self-destructive characters, a suicidal main character, and LOTS of death. This was the reason I picked up this book in the first place-the book was so unique I just had to buy it! The characters were all very real. They all reacted to all the death and disease in different ways and were very interesting and unique. Most of the characters did a great amount of growing throughout the story. The world building was just PERFECT!!!! I could imagine this really happen if a deadly disease really struck. The rich are able to survive and try to remain oblivious to all the chaos around them and the poor are just struggling to not get the disease. I really thought the idea of the Debauchery Club being a safe haven for the rich was really clever. I think the author did a really good job building the world and the characters. The plot was great to! A revolution to help the struggling people and their city-count me in! The love triangle in the story was pretty good to. There was actually competition between the two men. I did not know who Araby was going to pick until the very end. The pacing was perfect! I did not feel like the story was being rushed or going to slow just to fill up some more pages. The reason I am only giving it 4 Stars is because the book did not exactly make me feel like I would explode if I put the book down for a couple of days.

I really enjoyed reading this book! The ending was pretty open-ended but I was pretty satisfied with it but I am definitely going to get the next book when it comes out!

4 Stars

You can find this review at my blog: LaLovelyStories.wordpress.com(less)

2 likes · like · see review

Apr 12, 2012 Blythe rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Absolutely everyone!

Recommended to Blythe by: Wendy Darling

Shelves: netgalley-edelweiss-arc, in-a-name-challenge, judge-a-book-by-the-cover, 2012-reads, didn-t-see-that-coming, gimme-the-next-book, hand-me-some-tissues, read-reviewed, exceeded-my-expectations, 2012-favorites

*sigh*. This is going to be a hard review to write, but here’s my attempt at writing a review for Masque of the Red Death, even though I know it will not do it justice.

I’ll start off with saying this: I. Loved. This. Book. I loved it with a burning passion, I loved it from the first page, all the way to the last. There was honestly not one moment of this book that I didn’t love.

As I’m writing this review, I’m overcome with so many emotions I’ve received from this book. I cried a little when re...more

9 likes · like · see review

Nov 21, 2012 Micheline rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult, steampunk, dystopia-utopia-future, tstl-protagonist

Rating Clarification: 2.5 stars

I know...I know. I'm hating writing this review just as much as some fans of Masque of the Red Death may hate seeing my rating of it...and believe me, I'm WAY outnumbered on this one! I went into this with high hopes, not only because so many Goodreads friends and fellow blogger had given it glowing reviews, but because the synopsis really piqued my interest. I really like reading dystopians but they do tend to feature similar worlds and settings. The idea of a fu...more Rating Clarification: 2.5 stars

I know...I know. I'm hating writing this review just as much as some fans of Masque of the Red Death may hate seeing my rating of it...and believe me, I'm WAY outnumbered on this one! I went into this with high hopes, not only because so many Goodreads friends and fellow blogger had given it glowing reviews, but because the synopsis really piqued my interest. I really like reading dystopians but they do tend to feature similar worlds and settings. The idea of a future world destroyed by a mysterious plague felt fresh & full of promise. The steampunk/revolutionary vibe convinced me even more that I was going to love this book. Unfortunately it just wasn't the case - I kept waiting to become invested and then blow away, until I realized I was nearing the end of the book and it still hadn't clicked for me...but more on that in a bit.

Let's start out with the positive, and despite my low-ish rating there are a lot of pretty incredible elements in play here. The world building is every bit as impressive as everyone says it is. I was instantly taken aback by how effectively Bethany Griffin awoke in me a sense of discomfort and dread. The world in Masque of the Red Death is one ravaged by death and disease. A plague has decimated most of the world's population and people are still dropping like flies all around. Since the disease is air-born, the rich have been endowed with masques while the poor must hope for the best..and expect death to come for them sooner rather then later. The masque themselves serve as a constant reminder to the reader of the fear in which these characters have to deal with every second of their lives. Every character has lost someone and has felt the stiffing effect of being at the mercy of a horrible disease. The author is especially skilled at setting the appropriate tone for the scene at hand and skillfully vacillates from making the reader feel some dread...to outright terror in a matter of seconds.

So almost every single element brought to the table in MotRD worked for me: the steampunk feel, the dark oppressive tone, the mysterious, almost gothic city the story takes place in, the believable dystopian world....everything except the characters. I just didn't feel much of anything for them except the obvious empathy at the heartbreaking effect the plague has had on them. And I mean, I understand that they would how such traumatic events might bring out the worst in people but I really just couldn't relate to any of these characters. Most of this is likely due to my feelings for Araby. I honestly couldn't understand her actions or thought process most of the time. She had poor judgement, at best and outright stupidity at her worst. Her guilt and grief have obviously damaged her and if anything I'm one to sympathize and love those kinds of characters but every time she displayed poor judgement I felt myself further alienated from her and the life she lead. The same can be said for her friend April and the proposed 'love triangle' candidates Will & Elliott. Each and every character displayed some behavior or decision that I just could not wrap my head around. I mean I felt sad when bad things happened to them or when the author highlighted their grief and torment...but it never went any further than that. And since I thrive in character driven stories, I found my desire to connect overshadowing my enjoyment of every other positive element of this tale.

My review may seem a bit low, considering that I did bring out quite a few positive attributes in this story but I feel that those attributes ought to be, for the most part are thanks to Edward Allen Poe and his short story by the same name. I read somewhere that Bethany Griffin wanted to know more about Poe's famous short story & the characters that inhabited this horrifying world. Since my greatest complaint was indeed the characters, I can't really bring myself to award a higher rating than this...even though it really is bumming me out.

For all my reviews, features, news & giveaways - visit my blog:

(less)

4 likes · like · see review

Apr 13, 2013 Renae M. rated it 2 of 5 stars

Recommended to Renae by: Rebecca

Shelves: read-in-2013, dystopia-or-post-apocalyptic, published-2012, steampunk, viewers-choice

Because of its delightfully steampunkish cover and obvious Poe reference, Masque of the Red Death is a book that’s been on my radar since it came out. Unfortunately, I find that this is a book better left unread, as Bethany Griffin failed to deliver the wonderful adventure I expected from this novel. Instead, I found the story to hinge on illogical character choices, and to be populated with a dense crop of common clichés and tropes.

Masque of the Red Death got off to an extremely rough start. Ou...more Because of its delightfully steampunkish cover and obvious Poe reference, Masque of the Red Death is a book that’s been on my radar since it came out. Unfortunately, I find that this is a book better left unread, as Bethany Griffin failed to deliver the wonderful adventure I expected from this novel. Instead, I found the story to hinge on illogical character choices, and to be populated with a dense crop of common clichés and tropes.

Masque of the Red Death got off to an extremely rough start. Our narrator, Araby, is apparently depressed and suicidal, and spends her nights at the Debauchery Club. In the space of about 24 hours, she makes the acquaintance of tattooed-yet-sweet Will and bad-boy Elliott. She also spends the night with both and is instantly trusting of both men, in spite of all the reasons she has not to trust anyone. (Apparently these two guys are extra special and are the exceptions.) Also, after meeting the two love interests, Araby no longer thinks of suicide—funny how that works.

From there, Griffin takes readers on a journey that deals with a corrupt government, deadly diseases, and a rebellion—there is also an insane religious fanatic, because of course we much cover all of our bases, mustn’t we? Throughout this, Araby frequently forgets that the plague and rebellion are even going on, just so she can spend several days in the company of one love interest or another. Right on, Ms Griffin! Way to do it!

When it comes right down to it, Araby was my number one problem with Masque of the Red Death. The author obviously gave her certain attributes in order to make the story work. Araby’s suicidal thoughts were very fake, and were instantly discarded once romance was in the air. Araby was constantly naive, foolish, and blind to facts, and her stupidity made the plot “twists” possible. In my opinion, if your plot only works because your main character is as empty-headed as a flowerpot, you need a new plot. Just saying.

Really, this book was just weird. I could see that Griffin was trying to do, but it never worked out, due to shallow characterization, illogical plot developments, and (also) overly vague world-building. On the other hand, Masque of the Red Death is an extremely quick read, is easy to read, and doesn’t require much effort on the reader’s part. But as I like books with more substance than this, I’m going to have to say that Bethany Griffin’s sophomore attempt isn’t for me and that I have no plans to read the sequel when it comes out.

Read more reviews at Respiring Thoughts.(less)

2 likes · like · see review

Apr 23, 2012 All Things Urban Fantasy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: april-2012-hotp, reviewed-by-kristina

Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy

MASQUE OF THE RED DEATH felt like a massively lavish and gothic prologue to Edgar Allen Poe’s short story by the same name. In Bethany Griffin’s tale the rich are privileged enough to live in secluded areas and wear masks to protect them from the Weeping Sickness while the poor are left to await the corpse collectors to carry away their loved ones. While the masks are meant to be protection, I got a distinctly creepy vibe at the thought of people wander...more Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy

MASQUE OF THE RED DEATH felt like a massively lavish and gothic prologue to Edgar Allen Poe’s short story by the same name. In Bethany Griffin’s tale the rich are privileged enough to live in secluded areas and wear masks to protect them from the Weeping Sickness while the poor are left to await the corpse collectors to carry away their loved ones. While the masks are meant to be protection, I got a distinctly creepy vibe at the thought of people wandering the streets with half their faces frozen as if the living are wearing reminders of the death they were trying to avoid every day.

Araby, a suitably tragic character for a gothic tale, is one of the fortunate mask wearers who is not only trapped behind her mask, but by her grief over her brother Finn’s death which she blames herself for.Throughout the story Araby denies herself everything that her brother can’t experience anymore including intimacy with emotion numbing drugs that often leave her passed out in clubs.

The love triangle was complex in the sense that I kept changing who I felt Araby should be with every time some new bit of information came up about Elliot or Will. Both guys had their positive and negative qualities. Will is poor and taking care of his siblings while working at the Debauchery Club that Araby meets him at. Elliot is an artist type trying to rebel against Prince Prospero; the tyrannical ruler of their land who does all he can to deny the poor protection from the Weeping Sickness. But both were deceptive or exhibited frightening behaviour towards Araby multiple times in the story. There wasn’t really a romance per se as Araby spent a lot of the book wanting to but denying herself the pleasure of kissing. I don’t necessarily agree with who she appears to choose in the end since one guy’s negative qualities outweighs the other’s significantly from my perspective.

It was fun noting the allusions to the original Masque of the Red Death work while reading Griffin’s retelling which expertly matched Poe’s tale in tone and style. I loved the beautiful gothic descriptions of this world though it did take me awhile to get used to the first person present tense and the story started off slow, but once the action picked up the story didn’t drag as much. MASQUE OF THE RED DEATH weaves a compelling tale in a dark homage to Poe’s classic gothic horror story.

Sexual Content:
Some kissing
(less)

2 likes · like · see review

Jun 24, 2012 Kate rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-in-2012

First Impression:
One creepy cover. Plus a twist on a classic tale. It could equal one enticing read based on that blurb.

While Reading:
All Araby wants is an escape. From the contagion. From her past. From life as it is now. Her answer? The Debauchery Club. A place for the Elite. Where anything can be had... for a price. But behind these doors, lie secrets that Araby never imagined.

Araby is one of the most complex characters I have come across. She is so complex that it almost made her unlikeable...more First Impression:
One creepy cover. Plus a twist on a classic tale. It could equal one enticing read based on that blurb.

While Reading:
All Araby wants is an escape. From the contagion. From her past. From life as it is now. Her answer? The Debauchery Club. A place for the Elite. Where anything can be had... for a price. But behind these doors, lie secrets that Araby never imagined.

Araby is one of the most complex characters I have come across. She is so complex that it almost made her unlikeable, at least in the beginning. Life... Death... these two concepts blend together in Araby's world. Life is a struggle. A constant reminder of the twin brother she has lost. Death, now that is the easy way out. But if she were to take this out, then she would only be dishonoring her brother's memory. It is definitely a damned if you do, and damned if you don't type of situation.

The beauty of Masque of the Red Death lies in its subtle brutality. The despair of the city's people. Helpless to care for those they cherish, all the while attempting to maintain a small spark of hope. No doubt about it, Masque of the Red Death is one gritty tale. And Griffin gloriously embraces the need for this grit. The honesty of what a disease / plague can do to a society and its people. Griffin does not shy away from taking us readers to the edge. Highlighting the gore as well as the beauty of the desolate area. Lights... Shadows... it is all here in Masque of the Red Death.

While parts of Masque of the Red Death may not be for the faint of heart, the book is definitely not without its own heart. Will, Elliot, and Araby are part of a complex triangle. Not exactly a love triangle, but a triangle nonetheless. Griffin executes the turmoil of the triangle perfectly. Often with YA books, there is so much black and white. Good on one side. Evil on another. Griffin does none of this. Masque of the Red Death is not a good vs. evil type read. It is not about the black or the white, but rather the grey. Masque of the Red Death blurs the lines of love, trust, dishonesty making readers question what they think they know about these characters, while throwing in plenty of twists to keep us on our toes.

Final Verdict:
At first, I was really confused by Masque of the Red Death. The world building came off a little jagged. Never giving concise answers to the growing questions that I had building inside of me. As the tale unfolded, many of the questions I had never really got their answer. But strangely enough, I was fine with that. Every book does not need exhaustive reasoning for the way that things are or where... you just have to accept that they are. Masque of the Red Death had that feeling to it. And I loved getting lost in that world. Watching the lines of truth and lies blending. Love being contorted into something almost unrecognizable. Masque of the Red Death is unlike anything out there. Gritty, honest, and completely unapologetic. (less)

4 likes · like · see review

May 15, 2012 Abbey Ann rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-march-2012, 4-out-of-5, books-reviewed-by-me

Also posted at http://abbeyannsbookland.blogspot.com

When I first started this book, I was afraid I wouldn't like it. I haven't really read much dystopia, so I was a little leery going in. Let me just say, this book did not disappoint!

WHAT I LIKED:

1. The Cover Yes, I know this is a bit superficial, but the cover was one of the main reasons I was interested in the novel in the first place. It's so creepy, yet it's so beautiful. Definitely one of the best I've seen in a while.

2. The Writing ...more

4 likes · like · see review

topics	posts	views	last activity
YA Writers and Re...: Masque of the Red Death by Bethany Griffins	6	34	Apr 25, 2013 11:40am
The YA Dystopian ...: New Dystopian Novel	5	112	Aug 27, 2012 08:06am
~!The Young Adult...: Masque of the Red Death	3	13	May 04, 2012 09:35am

title link	preview: Masque of the Red Death
avg rating	preview: Masque of the Red Death Goodreads rating: 3.78 (5903 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12924275-masque-of-the-red-death?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1341716702l/12924275.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12924275-masque-of-the-red-death?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]Masque of the Red Death by Bethany Griffin[/url]

Masque of the Red Death (Masque of the Red Death #1)

Friend Reviews

Lists with This Book

Community Reviews

new topic
Discuss This Book

combine
Other Editions

Genres

Readers also enjoyed similar books

About Bethany Griffin

Books by Bethany Griffin

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website

Trivia About Masque of the Red...

Quotes from Masque of the Red Death