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The Blue Mask
Drugs, sex and rock and roll—that was the name of the game for hard rock musicians like the Blue Mask. Founded by singer Alix Lane and lead guitarist Joel Stark in 1985, they lived the anthem. A year later both the band and their drummer were dead. 1988 saw a new Blue Mask, cleaned up, regrouped and touring. It is now 1990. AIDS is still an epidemic for both hetero- and homosexuals. Social media is not a thing. Or smartphones. Or the age of unlimited information. But it is the year of the Blue Mask. Dreams do come true, and their star ascends with international fame and success. Nothing can go wrong for Alix and Joel's band and their close circle of friends. Until it does. But this group has only each other to rely on and they will survive tragedy. This is their story.
362 pages, Paperback
Published December 28, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
October 11, 2024
The Blue Mask is a riveting exploration of the rise, fall, and resurrection of a band navigating fame, fortune, and personal demons. At the heart of the story are Alix and Joel, the lead singer and lead guitarist, whose journeys form the emotional core of the narrative. While a rich supporting cast adds depth, the focus remains on these two as they grapple with addiction, loss, and the unpredictable highs and lows of stardom. The book expertly traces their path from near-destruction to success, only to confront the bitter realities of their hard-won fame.
The characters are exceptionally well-crafted, with Alix’s struggles with addiction and Joel’s simultaneous laziness and fierce loyalty making for a compelling duo. Their relationship is fraught with tension and moments of tenderness. It's captivating and when other characters like Brad, Ash, and Bear are added to the mix, the story becomes even more vibrant. Their interactions feel real and dynamic, bringing the world of the band to life in a way that’s both gritty and deeply human.
Tonally, the book strikes a perfect balance between grounded realism and moments of humor that lighten the emotional weight of the story. Its pacing is steady, allowing for both reflection and forward momentum, with each beat of the story landing with precision. The exploration of fame’s costs on mental health, relationships, and personal identity is beautifully intertwined with the plot, making the impact of these themes resonate strongly.
By the time I reached the final chapter, I was so emotionally invested that I nearly wept, which is a rare experience in my years of reviewing. Each moment in the book feels purposeful; no scene is wasted. Whether it’s driving the plot forward or offering more insight into the characters, every page feels essential. The writing is tight and meaningful, with an economy of words that ensures every line serves a purpose. This tightness makes for a read that is both immersive and hard to put down, as every chapter adds more layers to the rich, emotional tapestry Burke has woven.
The Blue Mask is a deeply emotional and heartfelt story. I would recommend to anyone who can handle the raw subject matter, as it pulls no punches in exploring the darker sides of fame and personal struggle. The Blue Mask is a phenomenal read that delves deep into the music industry of the '90s and examines it through the lens of the individuals who comprise the band rather than the band as an entity. Burke’s ability to create nuanced, lifelike characters and her willingness to explore the emotional costs of success make this a must-read for anyone fascinated by the intersection of music, fame, and personal redemption.
The characters are exceptionally well-crafted, with Alix’s struggles with addiction and Joel’s simultaneous laziness and fierce loyalty making for a compelling duo. Their relationship is fraught with tension and moments of tenderness. It's captivating and when other characters like Brad, Ash, and Bear are added to the mix, the story becomes even more vibrant. Their interactions feel real and dynamic, bringing the world of the band to life in a way that’s both gritty and deeply human.
Tonally, the book strikes a perfect balance between grounded realism and moments of humor that lighten the emotional weight of the story. Its pacing is steady, allowing for both reflection and forward momentum, with each beat of the story landing with precision. The exploration of fame’s costs on mental health, relationships, and personal identity is beautifully intertwined with the plot, making the impact of these themes resonate strongly.
By the time I reached the final chapter, I was so emotionally invested that I nearly wept, which is a rare experience in my years of reviewing. Each moment in the book feels purposeful; no scene is wasted. Whether it’s driving the plot forward or offering more insight into the characters, every page feels essential. The writing is tight and meaningful, with an economy of words that ensures every line serves a purpose. This tightness makes for a read that is both immersive and hard to put down, as every chapter adds more layers to the rich, emotional tapestry Burke has woven.
The Blue Mask is a deeply emotional and heartfelt story. I would recommend to anyone who can handle the raw subject matter, as it pulls no punches in exploring the darker sides of fame and personal struggle. The Blue Mask is a phenomenal read that delves deep into the music industry of the '90s and examines it through the lens of the individuals who comprise the band rather than the band as an entity. Burke’s ability to create nuanced, lifelike characters and her willingness to explore the emotional costs of success make this a must-read for anyone fascinated by the intersection of music, fame, and personal redemption.
June 18, 2023
The Blue Mask
By
Mick Burke
Rating:5/5
Description:
Drugs, sex and rock and roll—that was the name of the game for hard rock musicians like the Blue Mask. Founded by singer Alix Lane and lead guitarist Joel Stark in 1985, they lived the anthem. A year later both the band and their drummer were dead. 1988 saw a new Blue Mask, cleaned up, regrouped and touring. It is now 1990. AIDS is still an epidemic for both hetero- and homosexuals. Social media is not a thing. Or smartphones. Or the age of unlimited information. But it is the year of the Blue Mask. Dreams do come true, and their star ascends with international fame and success. Nothing can go wrong for Alix and Joel's band and their close circle of friends. Until it does. But this group has only each other to rely on and they will survive tragedy. This is their story.
Review:
👉Talking about the title of the book, the title of the book is really so interesting to read.
👉The cover is appealing and attractive as well. Writing style is awesome.The Blue Mask was founded by singer Alix Lane and lead guitarist Joel Stark in 1985, they lived the anthem. It started out in such a spirit of fun, much like the age that was being described on the tape. Drugs, sex and rock and roll-that was the name of the game for hard rock musicians like the Blue Mask.A year later both the band and their drummer passed away. In 1988, a new Blue Mask was formed. When the band regrouped and started touring, they realized that a year and a half of silence had not dulled fan support.
It is now Spring 1990 and it is the year of the Blue Mask. Dreams do come true, and their star ascends with international fame and success. Nothing can go wrong for Alix Lane and Joel's band and their close circle of friends.Grab this copy of the true tales of the Rock N Roll society which were a rage when cell phones, the internet were aliens to common people. I am sure this will bring a lot of nostalgic moments to all the 1980's back benchers like me. Love all , peace out
For book link:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/022888...
Wow! What a book! I am in love with the book
👉I just loved reading the book ...
Happy reading
By
Mick Burke
Rating:5/5
Description:
Drugs, sex and rock and roll—that was the name of the game for hard rock musicians like the Blue Mask. Founded by singer Alix Lane and lead guitarist Joel Stark in 1985, they lived the anthem. A year later both the band and their drummer were dead. 1988 saw a new Blue Mask, cleaned up, regrouped and touring. It is now 1990. AIDS is still an epidemic for both hetero- and homosexuals. Social media is not a thing. Or smartphones. Or the age of unlimited information. But it is the year of the Blue Mask. Dreams do come true, and their star ascends with international fame and success. Nothing can go wrong for Alix and Joel's band and their close circle of friends. Until it does. But this group has only each other to rely on and they will survive tragedy. This is their story.
Review:
👉Talking about the title of the book, the title of the book is really so interesting to read.
👉The cover is appealing and attractive as well. Writing style is awesome.The Blue Mask was founded by singer Alix Lane and lead guitarist Joel Stark in 1985, they lived the anthem. It started out in such a spirit of fun, much like the age that was being described on the tape. Drugs, sex and rock and roll-that was the name of the game for hard rock musicians like the Blue Mask.A year later both the band and their drummer passed away. In 1988, a new Blue Mask was formed. When the band regrouped and started touring, they realized that a year and a half of silence had not dulled fan support.
It is now Spring 1990 and it is the year of the Blue Mask. Dreams do come true, and their star ascends with international fame and success. Nothing can go wrong for Alix Lane and Joel's band and their close circle of friends.Grab this copy of the true tales of the Rock N Roll society which were a rage when cell phones, the internet were aliens to common people. I am sure this will bring a lot of nostalgic moments to all the 1980's back benchers like me. Love all , peace out
For book link:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/022888...
Wow! What a book! I am in love with the book
👉I just loved reading the book ...
Happy reading
May 7, 2023
Blue Mask
If you are a Rock and Roll fan, then this book is definitely not to be missed, Set in and around the rock n roll group called Blue Mask, this book takes you to a spine chilling era of Drug, Sex & Rock N Roll . ALix Lane & GUitarist Joel stark founded the group in 1985 and died tragically a year later. As you navigate the book you will find the pre internet era, where Rock N Roll, Sex Drugs, were talked of the world. The group was reformed in 1988, and 1990 was the year when AIDS was an epidemic on the rise between the hetero & the homosexuals. Long hairs, ear studs & earrings , tight leather jackets, jeans topped with drugs and reckless lives were considered purpose of life, with no internet, technology, no cell phones.. just limited landlines. The new group started afresh and were in cloud nine with their heels high on air, with their international fame & success for Alix & Joel's band and their close circle of friends. Success is not easy and it comes with a price, that everyone has to pay. So what happens with the new group? will they be able to live the Blue Mask Legacy ? Will they be able to cope up with the new societal changes ?? Or will they fall apart tragically like their previous groups. ?? Grab this copy of the true tales of the Rock N Roll society which were a rage when cell phones, the internet were aliens to common people. I am sure this will bring a lot of nostalgic moments to all the 1980's back benchers like me. Love all , peace out
If you are a Rock and Roll fan, then this book is definitely not to be missed, Set in and around the rock n roll group called Blue Mask, this book takes you to a spine chilling era of Drug, Sex & Rock N Roll . ALix Lane & GUitarist Joel stark founded the group in 1985 and died tragically a year later. As you navigate the book you will find the pre internet era, where Rock N Roll, Sex Drugs, were talked of the world. The group was reformed in 1988, and 1990 was the year when AIDS was an epidemic on the rise between the hetero & the homosexuals. Long hairs, ear studs & earrings , tight leather jackets, jeans topped with drugs and reckless lives were considered purpose of life, with no internet, technology, no cell phones.. just limited landlines. The new group started afresh and were in cloud nine with their heels high on air, with their international fame & success for Alix & Joel's band and their close circle of friends. Success is not easy and it comes with a price, that everyone has to pay. So what happens with the new group? will they be able to live the Blue Mask Legacy ? Will they be able to cope up with the new societal changes ?? Or will they fall apart tragically like their previous groups. ?? Grab this copy of the true tales of the Rock N Roll society which were a rage when cell phones, the internet were aliens to common people. I am sure this will bring a lot of nostalgic moments to all the 1980's back benchers like me. Love all , peace out
August 26, 2025
The Blue Mask is the name of the band whose members are the focus of the story. It takes place during the amazing rock era of the 1980s early 1990s. It is a tale of the rise to fame of a motley crew of band members and their unique intertwined relationships.
Great character development along with an intimate look at the HIV AIDS epidemic during the height of its impact on the world.
Looking forward to the sequel!
Great character development along with an intimate look at the HIV AIDS epidemic during the height of its impact on the world.
Looking forward to the sequel!
May 1, 2026
Behind the scenes of a rock band and their way to the top with their varied dynamics and between personalities. All framed in an earlier death and headed for another. Heartbreak and strength as the band negotiate it all.
Well-written.
Plenty of work trying to stay on top and be relevant.
Well-written.
Plenty of work trying to stay on top and be relevant.
May 22, 2023
Mick Burke has written a realistic novel about the success of a Rock band called Blue Mask. The story takes you through the ups and downs of success and the friendship needed to finish the ride. The story centers around the lead singer Alix and lead guitarist, Joel, the latter who suffers through a disease, while the rest of the band deals with the effects, especially, his best friend, Alex. The friendship they share is heartbreaking and uplifting.
The Author has created a detailed and realistic history of the fictional band, which is interesting, but in the end you'll get to know the members, not through the success of their music, but through the closeness of the band and their willingness to stick together in tough times.
The Author has created a detailed and realistic history of the fictional band, which is interesting, but in the end you'll get to know the members, not through the success of their music, but through the closeness of the band and their willingness to stick together in tough times.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews