The Order of Masks by Alina Bellchambers

The Order of Masks is the debut novel from Adelaide Hills author, Alina Bellchambers. A dark fantasy romance, Bellchambers has crafted a captivating world of political intrigue, magic and betrayal.

Mira has been on the run for her entire life, fleeing a past that her mother refuses to talk about. All Mira has ever known is constant upheaval and a feeling of never truly belonging anywhere. Exhausted by the endless turmoil and secrets, Mira is determined to find a way to secure her future once and for all, no matter the risk. To do this she must enter the deadly trials of the Ravalian Court, where she will either rise to become a powerful wielder of magic or die at the hands of the emperor, who has more than one reason to want her dead.

The Order of Masks also follows Scarlett, an ambitious princess struggling against her power-hungry brothers, forceful mother and aloof father. Despite their wildly different backgrounds, Mira and Scarlett are brought together by both ambition and desperation and have more in common than either could have imagined. If only they could trust one another long enough to discover this.

The hidden motives and morally grey natures of both Mira and Scarlett make for an engaging read, as Bellchambers skillfully builds a conflict that questions the thin line between ally and adversary. The Order of Masks balances action, romance, and suspense, making this novel a must-read for fans of fantasy with a dark edge.

Themes: Fantasy, Thriller, Romance, Revenge, Family, Politics, Magic, War.

Rose Tabeni