What do you think?
Rate this book
Masquerade
It's the Carnevale of 1750 and Venice's ballrooms, theatres, palazzos and squares are filled with delicious gossip, devilish fun and dangerous games. In this glittering masked world, everyone has a secret...
Set in an age of decadence made famous by Casanova, Masquerade uncovers the secrets of seven teens, from the highest aristocrat to the lowest servant – their dreams, desires, loves, loyalties ... and betrayals.
All the world's a stage. Let the show begin.
Set in an age of decadence made famous by Casanova, Masquerade uncovers the secrets of seven teens, from the highest aristocrat to the lowest servant – their dreams, desires, loves, loyalties ... and betrayals.
All the world's a stage. Let the show begin.
304 pages, Paperback
First published July 23, 2014
8 people are currently reading
1351 people want to read
About the author
Kylie Fornasier
5 books98 followersAs a teacher librarian, Kylie Foransier is in touch with what kids like to read, as well as being passionate about helping them enjoy that reading experience as much as she can. Kylie has won a number of writing awards, and already has a published chapter book and a soon-to-be published picture book with other major publishers. She is a strong believer in practicing what she preaches when it comes to her writing and so runs a writers' group with the NSW Writer's Centre and another in Penrith. Kylie lives in western Sydney.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
November 9, 2014
See more reviews at YA Midnight Reads
After all the positive 4-5 star reviews that started rolling in for Masquerade, I definitely was expecting something that was going to blow me right off my feet. I think, I set myself up for too much because after reading this book, I felt rather underwhelmed. However, this is not to say I didn't enjoy Masquerade--the setting and plot line were brilliantly written.
Masquerade centres around 7 teenagers in Venice of the year 1750 during the Carnevale. For the 335 pages this book was, 7 central characters was just too much. I found myself only really engaged in 3 people's story lines, all the others just didn't interest me as much and didn't leave such a great mark. For me, Orelia was more of the main character here--she was also the one whom I connected best with. She is the first person we hear from a she is just arriving at Venice. Her parents have died and she had no one to turn to--apart from an uncle who probably doesn't know Orelia exists. Her uncle does take her in and gives her sanction at his home and soon, we are whisked into a world of masquerade balls, theatres and acts loyalty and betrayal.
The atmosphere of the Carneval in 1750 was created marvellously. I could feel the glamour and the sophistication right off the pages and you can tell the author has done a lot of research. To me, the setting was one of this book's greatest highlights. It takes you back, transcending time, to where there were ballrooms and theatres and palazzos were full of life.
I'd like to point out how much I loved the absence of what I call "pointless drama". For instance, before Orelia arrives in Venice, her cousin is infatuated with the Doge's son, Bastian. She plans on having the first dance with him on the first night of the Carnevale but after a sequence of events, when Orelia arrives, she ends up having the first dance. Her cousin, Angelique, does get jealous but there's none of that girl on girl hate or drama that you'd expect would normally ensue. I was so happy about this, many points to the author here. In fact, there's no girl on girl hate at all in this book.
Honestly, I wasn't actually that invested in the romance. Perhaps it's my lack of care with many of the characters, but I just didn't feel the chemistry between Bastian and Orelia. I actually disliked Bastian for most of this book because of his rash decisions and how he handled his affairs.
And a note about the ending--I loved it. It didn't go for the sappy and corny road and took the realistic version which definitely surprised me because not many books decide to leave a romance like that. That being said, I still want a sequel. I feel as if these teenagers' stories are not totally complete and I know a lot of people want something closer to a HEA.
An atmospheric read, Kylie Fornasier's debut is one that totally surprised me. If you love the glamour and sophistication of this era, I highly recommend Masquerade.
After all the positive 4-5 star reviews that started rolling in for Masquerade, I definitely was expecting something that was going to blow me right off my feet. I think, I set myself up for too much because after reading this book, I felt rather underwhelmed. However, this is not to say I didn't enjoy Masquerade--the setting and plot line were brilliantly written.
Masquerade centres around 7 teenagers in Venice of the year 1750 during the Carnevale. For the 335 pages this book was, 7 central characters was just too much. I found myself only really engaged in 3 people's story lines, all the others just didn't interest me as much and didn't leave such a great mark. For me, Orelia was more of the main character here--she was also the one whom I connected best with. She is the first person we hear from a she is just arriving at Venice. Her parents have died and she had no one to turn to--apart from an uncle who probably doesn't know Orelia exists. Her uncle does take her in and gives her sanction at his home and soon, we are whisked into a world of masquerade balls, theatres and acts loyalty and betrayal.
The atmosphere of the Carneval in 1750 was created marvellously. I could feel the glamour and the sophistication right off the pages and you can tell the author has done a lot of research. To me, the setting was one of this book's greatest highlights. It takes you back, transcending time, to where there were ballrooms and theatres and palazzos were full of life.
I'd like to point out how much I loved the absence of what I call "pointless drama". For instance, before Orelia arrives in Venice, her cousin is infatuated with the Doge's son, Bastian. She plans on having the first dance with him on the first night of the Carnevale but after a sequence of events, when Orelia arrives, she ends up having the first dance. Her cousin, Angelique, does get jealous but there's none of that girl on girl hate or drama that you'd expect would normally ensue. I was so happy about this, many points to the author here. In fact, there's no girl on girl hate at all in this book.
Honestly, I wasn't actually that invested in the romance. Perhaps it's my lack of care with many of the characters, but I just didn't feel the chemistry between Bastian and Orelia. I actually disliked Bastian for most of this book because of his rash decisions and how he handled his affairs.
And a note about the ending--I loved it. It didn't go for the sappy and corny road and took the realistic version which definitely surprised me because not many books decide to leave a romance like that. That being said, I still want a sequel. I feel as if these teenagers' stories are not totally complete and I know a lot of people want something closer to a HEA.
An atmospheric read, Kylie Fornasier's debut is one that totally surprised me. If you love the glamour and sophistication of this era, I highly recommend Masquerade.
~Thank you Penguin Australia for sending me this copy!~
October 20, 2015
This book was awesome.
I'll admit, I wasn't a huge fan to begin with, but it wasn't even 100 pages in before I began to love it...and then I didn't stop loving it.
Full review found here: http://cassietheweird.wordpress.com/2...
I'll admit, I wasn't a huge fan to begin with, but it wasn't even 100 pages in before I began to love it...and then I didn't stop loving it.
Full review found here: http://cassietheweird.wordpress.com/2...
July 29, 2014
The world is a stage, filled with many acts – acts of love, loyalty, betrayal and deception. And Masquerade has it all, plus more.
Masquerade eloquently, and expertly, follows the lives of seven teenagers during the Carnevale of Venice in 1750-1751. Orelia is an orphan who has arrived in Venice to learn about her mother’s past. Veronica and Angelique are the daughters of an aristocrat, one sister likes to learn secrets, while the other is desperate to love. Anna is a servant with a dream far from her reach, but a secret much closer. Claudia has a wish of her own but is deterred by a tenacious mother. Bastian, is the son of the Doge, but has dreams far different to than those of his father. And Marco, the jovial brother and friend, who sometimes places the wrong bet.
The story starts when Orelia, newly orphaned, arrives in Venice to find a relative who does not know she exists, and to find out more about her mother’s history, and why she left Venice. But while Orelia finds the sanctuary she seeks in a city that seems to sing to her, she also finds that this city is a stage, and she is a player in an elaborate act. Orelia must keep her secret, but as the story develops, we find that she is not the only one hiding behind a mask.
1750’s Venice comes alive in Masquerade. Kylie Fornasier does not just describe this truly beautiful setting – she creates it for you. The descriptions of everything from Venice’s canals and piazzas, to the beautifully created masks, to the equally elaborate and uncomfortable clothing and costumes, every single detail in Masquerade was rich and filled with such clarity that you cannot help but be transported into this amazing world. I just adored the little details that were included, the weather, the pigeons, and the smell… all the things that are much a part of Venice as the Piazza San Marco.
Along with amazing visualisations, Masquerade is filled with wonderful details about life in Venice in this time period. Although a few liberties were taken, the politics, social standings, prejudices and superstitions in this period are perfectly reflected within this story, and the characters are all the richer for it.
Masquerade is a five-act play, and I adored the fact that that each act was introduced with a William Shakespeare quote. I enjoyed the pace of the plot, how secrets were unearthed, and how the lives of these very different, but yet equally trapped, teenagers intertwine. I actually enjoyed this book so much, that when I came across something that would normally drive me to distraction, I (uncharacteristically) could move straight past it and continue to be lost in this world. I also loved the fact that there is just the right amount of Italian spoken throughout the storyline. Most of the Italian throughout the book are words that you may already know, but if you get stuck, there is a helpful glossary in the back of the book to help you with the terms, titles, names and things you are not familiar with.
I thoroughly enjoyed everything about Masquerade. I was sucked into the world from the very foggy beginning, right until the dramatic final act. Masquerade is a brilliant YA historical fiction book, by an amazingly talented Aussie author. I truly hope there is a sequel, as there is so much left to explore in this amazing world and I would love to find myself back in 1750’s Venice.
Games and gossip, power and players, dreams and deception, secrets and sacrifice. Masquerade is a story about people hiding behind masks. And how to “find yourself in the city of masks”.
Review originally posted at www.booknerdreviews.com
Masquerade eloquently, and expertly, follows the lives of seven teenagers during the Carnevale of Venice in 1750-1751. Orelia is an orphan who has arrived in Venice to learn about her mother’s past. Veronica and Angelique are the daughters of an aristocrat, one sister likes to learn secrets, while the other is desperate to love. Anna is a servant with a dream far from her reach, but a secret much closer. Claudia has a wish of her own but is deterred by a tenacious mother. Bastian, is the son of the Doge, but has dreams far different to than those of his father. And Marco, the jovial brother and friend, who sometimes places the wrong bet.
The story starts when Orelia, newly orphaned, arrives in Venice to find a relative who does not know she exists, and to find out more about her mother’s history, and why she left Venice. But while Orelia finds the sanctuary she seeks in a city that seems to sing to her, she also finds that this city is a stage, and she is a player in an elaborate act. Orelia must keep her secret, but as the story develops, we find that she is not the only one hiding behind a mask.
1750’s Venice comes alive in Masquerade. Kylie Fornasier does not just describe this truly beautiful setting – she creates it for you. The descriptions of everything from Venice’s canals and piazzas, to the beautifully created masks, to the equally elaborate and uncomfortable clothing and costumes, every single detail in Masquerade was rich and filled with such clarity that you cannot help but be transported into this amazing world. I just adored the little details that were included, the weather, the pigeons, and the smell… all the things that are much a part of Venice as the Piazza San Marco.
Along with amazing visualisations, Masquerade is filled with wonderful details about life in Venice in this time period. Although a few liberties were taken, the politics, social standings, prejudices and superstitions in this period are perfectly reflected within this story, and the characters are all the richer for it.
Masquerade is a five-act play, and I adored the fact that that each act was introduced with a William Shakespeare quote. I enjoyed the pace of the plot, how secrets were unearthed, and how the lives of these very different, but yet equally trapped, teenagers intertwine. I actually enjoyed this book so much, that when I came across something that would normally drive me to distraction, I (uncharacteristically) could move straight past it and continue to be lost in this world. I also loved the fact that there is just the right amount of Italian spoken throughout the storyline. Most of the Italian throughout the book are words that you may already know, but if you get stuck, there is a helpful glossary in the back of the book to help you with the terms, titles, names and things you are not familiar with.
I thoroughly enjoyed everything about Masquerade. I was sucked into the world from the very foggy beginning, right until the dramatic final act. Masquerade is a brilliant YA historical fiction book, by an amazingly talented Aussie author. I truly hope there is a sequel, as there is so much left to explore in this amazing world and I would love to find myself back in 1750’s Venice.
Games and gossip, power and players, dreams and deception, secrets and sacrifice. Masquerade is a story about people hiding behind masks. And how to “find yourself in the city of masks”.
Review originally posted at www.booknerdreviews.com
February 3, 2015
No. No. No. No. No. NO! My first thought upon turning the final page of Masquerade. I refuse to believe in this ending. I get it's probably more realistic than the one I was imagining but I feel like a part of me has been torn from my body. Here we have one of the rare occasions in which I cry upon a book ending, because it ended. I quickly fell in love with Masquerade. I loved the multiple points of view and the complexity of the characters and their their story lines. I loved being pulled into a past I know almost nothing about. I loved everything but the ending. Don't get me wrong, I don't need a perfect fairytale ending or anything. I just need some closure. I have so many questions and I'm just so angry that I'll never get the answers. It's not fair. This book is not fair and I do not recommend reading it if you are anything like me. Or, you could read it and just skip the last chapter. Yeah, do that because I honestly couldn't put this book down. It'll draw you in and keep you hooked until the very end. Be prepared to hate a few people and completely change your mind about others. And remember that not all happy endings are of the fairytale variety.
August 23, 2015
WELL THIS WAS AWESOME. I shouldn't have doubted your advice, Aussie blogglings. Kylie Fornasier knows how to make Venice come alive. I wasn't TOO fussed with all the romance-y stuff, but I mean, that's my fault (the blurb does indeed mention a lot of romance).
Basically, this book made me want to read more historical fiction - if only all of it was as good as this.
___________________________________
Masquerade by Kylie Fornasier is set in Venice. I did not read it in Venice, but I DID read it in Italy, so that’s close enough, right?
I was kind of worried while I read it, because everyone had said SUCH AMAZING things about it, and I was a bit nervous that I wouldn’t like it.
However, never fear. Today’s review is going to talk about the things I worried about that were really awesome.
1. The millions of different perspectives.
Well, okay, like seven. I thought I would get lost with all the different perspectives and have no idea what was going on. We have:
ORELIA – this girl was my fave. She’s kind of the main character and she was quite lovely.
BASTIAN – KILL HIM WITH FIRE.
ANGELIQUE – so apparently dramatic teenaged girls existed in 1700s Venice as well, which doesn’t surprise me. This girl overreacts about EVERYTHING, and is in love with Bastian.
CLAUDIA – My second favourite. I was glad she didn’t turn out to be the classic Bitchy Girl.
VERONICA – LOVED her. This one’s Angelique’s older sister and she has a great way of dealing with not wanting to marry.
ANNA – while I didn’t approve of some of her decisions, I did appreciate that she was trying to help her sister.
I didn’t get lost with all the perspectives. They were differentiated really well, and it was easy to slip into all the different stories.
2. The genre – historical fiction isn’t really my thing.
But let me tell you, KYLIE FORNASIER HAS DONE HER RESEARCH. And if you want to be breath-taken by Italian beauty, look no further than her Pinterest boards.
Luckily, the history part wasn’t hard to understand or follow. There was a glossary for the terms, but I didn’t actually need it, because it flowed so well. I loved learning about the Carnevale and the different meanings for masks. I was absolutely swept away in Kylie Fornasier’s recreation of Venice.
The setting was absolutely gorgeous. I’m pretty sure I read this on the day we went to Naples, which was beautiful – being surrounded by Italy was definitely an awesome experience.
3. The romance(s)!
Okay, yes, I wasn’t a MASSIVE fan of the romances, so I was a little right to be worried there. But for the most part, I’m happy with how they ended. I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but let’s just say that it’s not what you’d expect in a typical YA ending. So that was good to see.
Masquerade definitely lived up to my expectations, and more.
A rich, beautiful setting and characters whose lives intertwined – what more could you want, right?
Basically, this book made me want to read more historical fiction - if only all of it was as good as this.
___________________________________
Masquerade by Kylie Fornasier is set in Venice. I did not read it in Venice, but I DID read it in Italy, so that’s close enough, right?
I was kind of worried while I read it, because everyone had said SUCH AMAZING things about it, and I was a bit nervous that I wouldn’t like it.
However, never fear. Today’s review is going to talk about the things I worried about that were really awesome.
1. The millions of different perspectives.
Well, okay, like seven. I thought I would get lost with all the different perspectives and have no idea what was going on. We have:
ORELIA – this girl was my fave. She’s kind of the main character and she was quite lovely.
BASTIAN – KILL HIM WITH FIRE.
ANGELIQUE – so apparently dramatic teenaged girls existed in 1700s Venice as well, which doesn’t surprise me. This girl overreacts about EVERYTHING, and is in love with Bastian.
CLAUDIA – My second favourite. I was glad she didn’t turn out to be the classic Bitchy Girl.
VERONICA – LOVED her. This one’s Angelique’s older sister and she has a great way of dealing with not wanting to marry.
ANNA – while I didn’t approve of some of her decisions, I did appreciate that she was trying to help her sister.
I didn’t get lost with all the perspectives. They were differentiated really well, and it was easy to slip into all the different stories.
2. The genre – historical fiction isn’t really my thing.
But let me tell you, KYLIE FORNASIER HAS DONE HER RESEARCH. And if you want to be breath-taken by Italian beauty, look no further than her Pinterest boards.
Luckily, the history part wasn’t hard to understand or follow. There was a glossary for the terms, but I didn’t actually need it, because it flowed so well. I loved learning about the Carnevale and the different meanings for masks. I was absolutely swept away in Kylie Fornasier’s recreation of Venice.
The setting was absolutely gorgeous. I’m pretty sure I read this on the day we went to Naples, which was beautiful – being surrounded by Italy was definitely an awesome experience.
3. The romance(s)!
Okay, yes, I wasn’t a MASSIVE fan of the romances, so I was a little right to be worried there. But for the most part, I’m happy with how they ended. I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but let’s just say that it’s not what you’d expect in a typical YA ending. So that was good to see.
Masquerade definitely lived up to my expectations, and more.
A rich, beautiful setting and characters whose lives intertwined – what more could you want, right?
June 25, 2017
First off, I haven't found many books where I actually enjoy multiple POV's, this book is the exception, possibly the only one so far.
Something I particularly loved about this book was how it seemed to break all the "Young Adult" stereotypes that everyone loves to hate, this book was different and it was definitely a good kind of different.
I want more.
Also, I'm probably not very coherent because it's late, and my gosh.
AUSTRALIAN PRIDE
Something I particularly loved about this book was how it seemed to break all the "Young Adult" stereotypes that everyone loves to hate, this book was different and it was definitely a good kind of different.
I want more.
AUSTRALIAN PRIDE
October 25, 2014
A realistic setting has never felt so magical.
When is the sequel coming out? I can't wait.
When is the sequel coming out? I can't wait.
March 3, 2016
Beautiful. Just beautiful.
August 8, 2014
Listen to mine and Philippa's joint audio review of Masquerade - part of episode 11 of Tea in the Treetops Podcast.
In summary, Masquerade reminded us of a Shakespearean comedy. We loved the confusion, the costumes and the characters, and all the amazing detail about Carnevale and life in Venice at the time. It’s one of our favourite reads of this year for sure!
In summary, Masquerade reminded us of a Shakespearean comedy. We loved the confusion, the costumes and the characters, and all the amazing detail about Carnevale and life in Venice at the time. It’s one of our favourite reads of this year for sure!
August 6, 2014
My VIDEO:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DkWkq...
:D
If you don't already have this book though... What are you doing???
Just kidding, but seriously you want this book.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DkWkq...
:D
If you don't already have this book though... What are you doing???
Just kidding, but seriously you want this book.
Want to read
May 8, 2015This looks good! (Well, it had me at Venice. Anything set in Venice, and I'm in.)
May 5, 2015
Masquerade by Kylie Fornasier is an Aussie YA debut set in 1750 Venice during the Carnivale. It came to me highly recommended by a real life reader buddy who said it was really good and different to anything else she had read. I am so glad for that rec, as a few chapters in I was not sure Masquerade was 'my kind' of book (I was not looking for a Gossip Girl-esque book set in a different era, which I had thought this might be due to the blurb). Oh, man, thankfully I set in for the long haul and ended up being completely swept into Fornasier's world and story.
I loved the characters and the way their paths criss-crossed. Fornasier clearly developed them all and their voices were unique, each thread/POV was intriguing and had depth. Here's the thing with the characters: there are 7 POVs. Wild, hey? Do not let that deter you. There are only a couple of POVs that are main, the others being granted brief timely flashes which add to the overall story-line and intrigue. There's some tension with one girl liking a boy who ends up liking a different girl, and those two girls (friends) handle their relationship so well, with no overwrought angst or drama. In fact, the novel deals with tragic and sorrowful circumstances, society/parental expectations, star-crossed lovers, first crushes, sneaky and underhanded real-stakes dares and a myriad of problems and they are all handled with finesse ~ no melodrama, just an aching honestly and an underlying tension that drives readers through the story to see where Fornasier is taking us and how things will work out (one of my favourite things about this novel is how I had no idea how things would pan out ~ loved that!).
I can't not mention the setting which comes alive in all it's glittering glory. The time period is dazzling and authentic and I felt like I was there amongst the drama and excitement of Carnivale.
The lead in to the climax all the way to the conclusion was so beautifully done. All the threads came together and nothing was predictable. In fact, the ending was so astonishingly gorgeous and captivating and haunting and unexpected that I finished the book and just lingered there (in Venice, with the characters) in my mind for sometime after. I would most definitely be up for a sequel should Fornasier want to continue to explore her characters lives.
I didn't think this would be my kind of read. I am not hugely into historical, certainly not fond of YA gossip and drama stuff, but it was completely genuine and addictive (especially once I passed the halfway mark when all the threads start colliding and I didn't want to put it down). If you're looking for a read that is sparkling and unique, beautiful and glittering, unexpected and a little bit haunting you should definitely pick up Masquerade. It's an underrated gem that is a favourite read of mine so far this year.
I loved the characters and the way their paths criss-crossed. Fornasier clearly developed them all and their voices were unique, each thread/POV was intriguing and had depth. Here's the thing with the characters: there are 7 POVs. Wild, hey? Do not let that deter you. There are only a couple of POVs that are main, the others being granted brief timely flashes which add to the overall story-line and intrigue. There's some tension with one girl liking a boy who ends up liking a different girl, and those two girls (friends) handle their relationship so well, with no overwrought angst or drama. In fact, the novel deals with tragic and sorrowful circumstances, society/parental expectations, star-crossed lovers, first crushes, sneaky and underhanded real-stakes dares and a myriad of problems and they are all handled with finesse ~ no melodrama, just an aching honestly and an underlying tension that drives readers through the story to see where Fornasier is taking us and how things will work out (one of my favourite things about this novel is how I had no idea how things would pan out ~ loved that!).
I can't not mention the setting which comes alive in all it's glittering glory. The time period is dazzling and authentic and I felt like I was there amongst the drama and excitement of Carnivale.
The lead in to the climax all the way to the conclusion was so beautifully done. All the threads came together and nothing was predictable. In fact, the ending was so astonishingly gorgeous and captivating and haunting and unexpected that I finished the book and just lingered there (in Venice, with the characters) in my mind for sometime after. I would most definitely be up for a sequel should Fornasier want to continue to explore her characters lives.
I didn't think this would be my kind of read. I am not hugely into historical, certainly not fond of YA gossip and drama stuff, but it was completely genuine and addictive (especially once I passed the halfway mark when all the threads start colliding and I didn't want to put it down). If you're looking for a read that is sparkling and unique, beautiful and glittering, unexpected and a little bit haunting you should definitely pick up Masquerade. It's an underrated gem that is a favourite read of mine so far this year.
July 23, 2014
Find this review and others on my blog Tea in the Treetops!
It's just a mini review today as I promised Angelya we would do a proper review/discussion of this one in our podcast next week as she's still reading it.
Anyone who listens to our podcast will most likely know that ever since attending PTA Live Brisbane earlier in the year I have been intrigued by this book, it ticked a lot of boxes for me. I had given up on having a shot at a review copy originally as I didn't see it appear on Netgalley but then to my delight about a week ago it appeared, I was approved and I started reading it pretty much straight away!
I'm happy to say that this one gets a big thumbs up from me, I really enjoyed it though I am hoping there is the possibility of a sequel as I had so many questions at the end that I want to know the answers to! So without going into too much detail I will give a quick rundown on what I really loved.
The Characters - I loved that this was told from a multitude of perspectives and they all wove together really well. Veronica was my favourite storyline but I also quite enjoyed the storyline of Bastian too though I wasn't sure at the end if he was a bit empty headed and selfish or had the potential of a noble alpha male type.
The Setting - I knew virtually nothing about Carnevale or historical Venice though it was very clear to me that this book had been thoroughly researched - there were lots of little details given that gave the story a richness of culture which I loved.
Book Layout - I loved that this book almost felt like a Shakespeare comedy. At about 60% through there is a scene where Bastion has this grand idea that is just so complex and ridiculous yet also highly inventive and entertaining that I could almost imagine it being on a stage.
What drove me mad? Argh the questions! I firstly can't tell if this has been set up to possibly have a sequel or not, it finishes like a stand alone novel but there were so many unanswered storylines. I must know what happens between Veronica and Luca! The story of Orelia's parents - I want more details I felt we only just skimmed the surface of the mystery. Angelique... does she eventually find true love? and the aftermath of Claudia and her brother Marco, I want to know more. I really hope there is a sequel to come I lost a lot of much needed sleep in the wee hours of the morning wondering about these things!
Anyone looking for something a little bit different to your standard love triangle YA book should definitely give this one a go and make sure you listen in to our podcast next week for a further discussion!
It's just a mini review today as I promised Angelya we would do a proper review/discussion of this one in our podcast next week as she's still reading it.
Anyone who listens to our podcast will most likely know that ever since attending PTA Live Brisbane earlier in the year I have been intrigued by this book, it ticked a lot of boxes for me. I had given up on having a shot at a review copy originally as I didn't see it appear on Netgalley but then to my delight about a week ago it appeared, I was approved and I started reading it pretty much straight away!
I'm happy to say that this one gets a big thumbs up from me, I really enjoyed it though I am hoping there is the possibility of a sequel as I had so many questions at the end that I want to know the answers to! So without going into too much detail I will give a quick rundown on what I really loved.
The Characters - I loved that this was told from a multitude of perspectives and they all wove together really well. Veronica was my favourite storyline but I also quite enjoyed the storyline of Bastian too though I wasn't sure at the end if he was a bit empty headed and selfish or had the potential of a noble alpha male type.
The Setting - I knew virtually nothing about Carnevale or historical Venice though it was very clear to me that this book had been thoroughly researched - there were lots of little details given that gave the story a richness of culture which I loved.
Book Layout - I loved that this book almost felt like a Shakespeare comedy. At about 60% through there is a scene where Bastion has this grand idea that is just so complex and ridiculous yet also highly inventive and entertaining that I could almost imagine it being on a stage.
What drove me mad? Argh the questions! I firstly can't tell if this has been set up to possibly have a sequel or not, it finishes like a stand alone novel but there were so many unanswered storylines. I must know what happens between Veronica and Luca! The story of Orelia's parents - I want more details I felt we only just skimmed the surface of the mystery. Angelique... does she eventually find true love? and the aftermath of Claudia and her brother Marco, I want to know more. I really hope there is a sequel to come I lost a lot of much needed sleep in the wee hours of the morning wondering about these things!
Anyone looking for something a little bit different to your standard love triangle YA book should definitely give this one a go and make sure you listen in to our podcast next week for a further discussion!
August 11, 2014
This review appears on Happy Indulgence. Check it out for more reviews!
Set in 1750 Venice, Masquerade is a sweeping, atmospheric story filled with love, drama and mystery during the month of the Carnevale. It features multiple points of views from seven teenagers, including a mysterious newcomer, aristocrats and servants, offering a varied viewpoint within a beautiful historical Venetian setting.
Masquerade needs to be read slowly to absorb the beauty and detail of Venice during the 1750s. The population celebrates Carnevale during the course of the novel, and seeing people walk around with masks and extravagant ballgowns during the festival is the norm. The novel is a treat for the senses, as its characters will attend extravagant balls with masks and ballgowns, visit an island of glass blowers, experience the theatre from the private booth, travel on gondolas and more.
While the setting is certainly extravagant and accurate, the novel takes a while to get off the ground and I had trouble connecting with the high number of characters throughout. There are seven characters in the novel and I must admit, I had trouble recalling who they were as they were mentioned. The third person perspective could be the cause of this, as we mostly related to the characters through the people they interacted with.
Of the ones I did connect to, I found the newcomer Orelia to be the most relatable, as she arrives in Venice with a hidden past. As she explores Venice in search of her deceased mother, it was Orelia’s secrets throughout the novel that were fascinating. I also liked Veronica, the older daughter of an aristocrat who is a gifted painter. She has a creative way of avoiding marriage by blackmailing her suitors with paintings of their secrets, which I thought was quite clever and admirable. Bastian was also an interesting yet cliche one, as he courts Orelia based on a friend’s bet and finds himself falling for her. Each character will have their own story and secrets set out during the course of the novel.
Masquerade is a dramatic, extravagant historical account of Venice in the 1750s. It’s reminiscent of a play or an opera filled with different acts, with each character having their own secrets and stories revealed spiraling into an epic, final conclusion. While it’s not without it’s flaws, due to a high volume of characters, the beauty of the novel is in its amazing setting.
Historical fiction has never really been my thing, but for those who enjoy it, definitely pick up Masquerade.
Set in 1750 Venice, Masquerade is a sweeping, atmospheric story filled with love, drama and mystery during the month of the Carnevale. It features multiple points of views from seven teenagers, including a mysterious newcomer, aristocrats and servants, offering a varied viewpoint within a beautiful historical Venetian setting.
Masquerade needs to be read slowly to absorb the beauty and detail of Venice during the 1750s. The population celebrates Carnevale during the course of the novel, and seeing people walk around with masks and extravagant ballgowns during the festival is the norm. The novel is a treat for the senses, as its characters will attend extravagant balls with masks and ballgowns, visit an island of glass blowers, experience the theatre from the private booth, travel on gondolas and more.
While the setting is certainly extravagant and accurate, the novel takes a while to get off the ground and I had trouble connecting with the high number of characters throughout. There are seven characters in the novel and I must admit, I had trouble recalling who they were as they were mentioned. The third person perspective could be the cause of this, as we mostly related to the characters through the people they interacted with.
Of the ones I did connect to, I found the newcomer Orelia to be the most relatable, as she arrives in Venice with a hidden past. As she explores Venice in search of her deceased mother, it was Orelia’s secrets throughout the novel that were fascinating. I also liked Veronica, the older daughter of an aristocrat who is a gifted painter. She has a creative way of avoiding marriage by blackmailing her suitors with paintings of their secrets, which I thought was quite clever and admirable. Bastian was also an interesting yet cliche one, as he courts Orelia based on a friend’s bet and finds himself falling for her. Each character will have their own story and secrets set out during the course of the novel.
Masquerade is a dramatic, extravagant historical account of Venice in the 1750s. It’s reminiscent of a play or an opera filled with different acts, with each character having their own secrets and stories revealed spiraling into an epic, final conclusion. While it’s not without it’s flaws, due to a high volume of characters, the beauty of the novel is in its amazing setting.
Historical fiction has never really been my thing, but for those who enjoy it, definitely pick up Masquerade.
November 19, 2015
Masquerade is the twisting story of seven teenagers living in Venice in the 1700s and how their lives interact and revolve around gossip, traditions and expectations of class. However, during Carnevale, you never know exactly who is behind the mask and plot twists and interweaving relations between the families, classes and individuals cause misconceptions and troubles for all.
The amount of research done into Masquerade made for a very detailed, believable and realistic view of Venice at the time. The dedication to cultural detail enabled the world of Masquerade to flourish and live in my mind and the characters were able to react in response to the descriptions and places in Venice seeming to fit right in and having their own understandings and views of their home. The fact that Kylie Fornasier has a Pintrest page with all her inspirations for different chapters made it very enjoyable to read with the companion visuals! https://www.pinterest.com/kyliefornasier
I loved how Masquerade was set out into acts. It did remind me a lot of Shakespeare, especially with the twisting drama and secrets that were the classes each trying to move up in the world or gain freedom behind a mask. The masks were also a really clever way of weaving themes of identity and false pretenses into the novel and it all added to the twisting maze of thoughts and storylines which all came together in a satisfying and gradual unveiling of truth. And the shocking plot twist at the end as well as unresolved narrations does allude to conventions of both Shakespearean tragedy and comedy plays.
The characters of Masquerade were also incredible! I loved Bastian so much! His wit and playful personality were so enjoyable to read and the dilemmas he went through, while petty at times, (but still adorable!) gave me an insight into what a caring, determined and good person he was. All the characters battled the stereotypes that had been placed upon them in society, especially Claudia, and to see them triumph sent a good message through the book as well as being empowering.
I really enjoyed the twist at the end! It was so unexpected and to be honest, it made me tear up!
5 out of 5 stars to Masquerade! This was one of the best books I have read in a long time and I hope we get a sequel, Confessions, one day!
Congratulations on a great debut YA novel Kylie Fornasier!
The amount of research done into Masquerade made for a very detailed, believable and realistic view of Venice at the time. The dedication to cultural detail enabled the world of Masquerade to flourish and live in my mind and the characters were able to react in response to the descriptions and places in Venice seeming to fit right in and having their own understandings and views of their home. The fact that Kylie Fornasier has a Pintrest page with all her inspirations for different chapters made it very enjoyable to read with the companion visuals! https://www.pinterest.com/kyliefornasier
I loved how Masquerade was set out into acts. It did remind me a lot of Shakespeare, especially with the twisting drama and secrets that were the classes each trying to move up in the world or gain freedom behind a mask. The masks were also a really clever way of weaving themes of identity and false pretenses into the novel and it all added to the twisting maze of thoughts and storylines which all came together in a satisfying and gradual unveiling of truth. And the shocking plot twist at the end as well as unresolved narrations does allude to conventions of both Shakespearean tragedy and comedy plays.
The characters of Masquerade were also incredible! I loved Bastian so much! His wit and playful personality were so enjoyable to read and the dilemmas he went through, while petty at times, (but still adorable!) gave me an insight into what a caring, determined and good person he was. All the characters battled the stereotypes that had been placed upon them in society, especially Claudia, and to see them triumph sent a good message through the book as well as being empowering.
I really enjoyed the twist at the end! It was so unexpected and to be honest, it made me tear up!
5 out of 5 stars to Masquerade! This was one of the best books I have read in a long time and I hope we get a sequel, Confessions, one day!
Congratulations on a great debut YA novel Kylie Fornasier!
March 1, 2015
Originally posted at A Book So Fathomless.
I first heard about Masquerade at PTA Live (Penguin Teen Australia) earlier this year. Not only did I love the cover – purple is my favourite colour, but the story sounded amazing. Granted, it took me a little while to actually get to this (those damn book buying bans!) but I’m so glad I did.
I’ve only ever read one other book set in Renaissance Venice, which was Venom – the stories are pretty different, but I have to say I think I actually liked Masquerade a little more. The book follows a few different characters – Veronica and Angelique who are complete opposites of each other despite being sister, Bastian, a sort of Venetian bad boy if you will, Claudia who is desperate to escape from her mother, her brother Marco, Anna, a maid with a talent for singing and a few secrets of her own and finally, Orelia, a recently orphaned girl who has just moved to Venice. I liked each of the characters – I admit, it took me a while to love to a couple of them but my favourite was definitely Orelia. I personally found Orelia’s story the most interesting and I could relate to her more than the others.
The setting is amazing – I cannot even begin to fathom how much research Kylie would have put into this book. I know that she did travel to Venice to research this, and you can definitely tell that she knows what she’s talking about. This is one of those books that really pulls you into the world with its writing – I honestly felt like I was going along in a gondola beside Orelia. I also want to mention that the way Kylie writes makes it feel very Italian – I don’t really know how else to describe this, but I could just imagine every word being said with an Italian accent.
All in all, I’m definitely glad that I got to Masquerade this year because it is a truly magnificent book. I think you all read it if you haven’t already so you too can bask in its beauty. Also, didn’t you read? Venetian bad boy…what more could you want?
I first heard about Masquerade at PTA Live (Penguin Teen Australia) earlier this year. Not only did I love the cover – purple is my favourite colour, but the story sounded amazing. Granted, it took me a little while to actually get to this (those damn book buying bans!) but I’m so glad I did.
I’ve only ever read one other book set in Renaissance Venice, which was Venom – the stories are pretty different, but I have to say I think I actually liked Masquerade a little more. The book follows a few different characters – Veronica and Angelique who are complete opposites of each other despite being sister, Bastian, a sort of Venetian bad boy if you will, Claudia who is desperate to escape from her mother, her brother Marco, Anna, a maid with a talent for singing and a few secrets of her own and finally, Orelia, a recently orphaned girl who has just moved to Venice. I liked each of the characters – I admit, it took me a while to love to a couple of them but my favourite was definitely Orelia. I personally found Orelia’s story the most interesting and I could relate to her more than the others.
The setting is amazing – I cannot even begin to fathom how much research Kylie would have put into this book. I know that she did travel to Venice to research this, and you can definitely tell that she knows what she’s talking about. This is one of those books that really pulls you into the world with its writing – I honestly felt like I was going along in a gondola beside Orelia. I also want to mention that the way Kylie writes makes it feel very Italian – I don’t really know how else to describe this, but I could just imagine every word being said with an Italian accent.
All in all, I’m definitely glad that I got to Masquerade this year because it is a truly magnificent book. I think you all read it if you haven’t already so you too can bask in its beauty. Also, didn’t you read? Venetian bad boy…what more could you want?
September 22, 2014
Masquerade is the masterful debut from Australian author Kylie Fornasier. It starts, Shakespeare style, with the list of characters, and the Shakespearean theme runs quite heavily through the book. Elements of The Merchant of Venice, A Midsummer Night's Dream, Romeo and Juliet, The Taming of the Shrew and others are present in the story. I loved picking out these elements, it felt like an inside joke between the author and me.
Masquerade follows the fate of a group of Venice's teenaged population, but starts with the recently orphaned Orelia as she arrives at the Venice palazzo of her Uncle. Forced to masquerade as his god-daughter, she is unable to reveal her true identity to anyone, even her cousins, Angelique and Veronica.
Angelique is desperately in love with Bastian, the son of the Doge. Bastian and his best friend, Marco, can't help but make increasingly outrageous wagers with each other. Veronica is of marriageable age, but uses her talent and wit to avoid accepting a proposal. Claudia is being pressed into a suitable marriage, but is desperately in love with someone else. Anna is a servant with a good heart, but a desperate secret.
Venice is in many ways a character itself in the novel, it plays such a large part and is so well rendered by the author. I really felt myself transported to 18th century Venice, and was reluctant to leave at the end of the story.
The ending seems to have divided readers a bit, and I won't comment other than to say that I thought it was perfect, and showed just how far Orelia had come.
Masquerade is wonderfully written and I am really looking forward to seeing what Kylie Fornasier produces next.
Masquerade follows the fate of a group of Venice's teenaged population, but starts with the recently orphaned Orelia as she arrives at the Venice palazzo of her Uncle. Forced to masquerade as his god-daughter, she is unable to reveal her true identity to anyone, even her cousins, Angelique and Veronica.
Angelique is desperately in love with Bastian, the son of the Doge. Bastian and his best friend, Marco, can't help but make increasingly outrageous wagers with each other. Veronica is of marriageable age, but uses her talent and wit to avoid accepting a proposal. Claudia is being pressed into a suitable marriage, but is desperately in love with someone else. Anna is a servant with a good heart, but a desperate secret.
Venice is in many ways a character itself in the novel, it plays such a large part and is so well rendered by the author. I really felt myself transported to 18th century Venice, and was reluctant to leave at the end of the story.
The ending seems to have divided readers a bit, and I won't comment other than to say that I thought it was perfect, and showed just how far Orelia had come.
Masquerade is wonderfully written and I am really looking forward to seeing what Kylie Fornasier produces next.
April 22, 2016
3.5 stars. It's hard to know what to say about this book. It's essentially the story of...seven? eight??...18-21 year old kids in eighteenth century Venice during Carnevale. Although based on that description in the blurb, it sounds like they're all friends and travelling around as a group when that couldn't be further from the truth. Some are nobility, some are servants. But all of them have secrets. Major secrets.
The setting was absolutely glorious. It felt rich and sumptuous and Venice was beautifully described. But where it fell a little flat for me is the sheer number of narrators. Yes, all their stories were interesting. But their voices were often a little too similar, and seven is a LOT of narrators to keep track of, you know? Veronica was easily my favourite character, with her genius evil plan for driving away suitors. Bastian was...kind of creepy, and Marco wasn't much better. So as far as male characters go, it was a little eh.
YA books that are straight historical fiction aren't especially common, so I enjoyed it for that. And I really enjoyed the not-neatly-tied-up-happily-ever-after ending. But it wasn't as fabulous as I was expecting it to be. Sigh.
The setting was absolutely glorious. It felt rich and sumptuous and Venice was beautifully described. But where it fell a little flat for me is the sheer number of narrators. Yes, all their stories were interesting. But their voices were often a little too similar, and seven is a LOT of narrators to keep track of, you know? Veronica was easily my favourite character, with her genius evil plan for driving away suitors. Bastian was...kind of creepy, and Marco wasn't much better. So as far as male characters go, it was a little eh.
YA books that are straight historical fiction aren't especially common, so I enjoyed it for that. And I really enjoyed the not-neatly-tied-up-happily-ever-after ending. But it wasn't as fabulous as I was expecting it to be. Sigh.
May 13, 2016
As much as I didn't think i was going to, I really enjoyed this book. I loved reading from all the different points of view, all their seperate lives, adventures and secrets. I only wish that there could have been more about each of the characters.
It was so descriptive and well researched that each time I opened my book, I felt like I was stepping into this beautiful, magic, mysterious world of Carnevale.
I did think it took a little while to get into the story and I was abit on the fence to start, but I kept going and soon couldn't stop. I had to know what happened and what everyone would do next, before I knew it I was at the fifth act and I knew there wasn't enough pages left to answer all my questions. In the end I was left wanting more.
Kylie, I read some of your comments so I know a sequel depends on the success of this book and so I really hope it does well because I NEED to fall back into this world and have my questions answered.
It was so descriptive and well researched that each time I opened my book, I felt like I was stepping into this beautiful, magic, mysterious world of Carnevale.
I did think it took a little while to get into the story and I was abit on the fence to start, but I kept going and soon couldn't stop. I had to know what happened and what everyone would do next, before I knew it I was at the fifth act and I knew there wasn't enough pages left to answer all my questions. In the end I was left wanting more.
Kylie, I read some of your comments so I know a sequel depends on the success of this book and so I really hope it does well because I NEED to fall back into this world and have my questions answered.
September 9, 2014
Reading Masquerade was like stepping through a gold-gilded door and arriving at a fabulous party during Carnavale.I loved spending time in this world, filled with rich characters and a page-turning plot. As I neared the end I didn't want to leave. Venice is a truly fascinating backdrop and holds as many secrets and layers as the characters themselves. A good story will transport the reader, this book does exactly that. Grab your mask and enjoy.
August 10, 2014
Definitely one of my fave reads of the year! Masquerade is a debut novel from a fellow Aussie author that is so unique, well written and well researched that I have no doubt it will become a hit in no time. It is sexy in the less-is-more way, the meeting of two sets of eyes across a crowded ballroom... Sigh! Everyone must check out Masquerade!
October 25, 2014
Beautifully descriptive. The characters and setting comes to life and captures your imagination. A wonderfully spun tale of intrigue, mystery and mischief.
July 31, 2014
It is 1750 in the glittering city of Venice, Italy and the spectacle that is Carnevale is just about to get underway. Orelia Rossetti is new to Venice, a stranger to the city. She’s lost everything and now she seeks answers, finding her way to the home of her uncle, Giovanni Contarini, a powerful senator. He takes her in under the proviso that she never admit to anyone that she is his niece – instead she is to claim that she is his goddaughter, an orphan from Rome.
Giovanni’s daughter Angelique loves Carnevale – it is her favourite time of the year and the celebrations give her ample opportunities to parade beautiful new dresses and elaborate new masks. This season she’s got her eye on the biggest prize of all, the handsome and eligible Bastian Donato. He’s the son of the Doge and the one all of the girls want. But Bastian has other ideas about what he wants out of life, preferring to date widely and unwisely. While Angelique plots, Bastian and his best friend Marco D’Este make a sly little bet.
Angelique’s sister Veronica cares little for Carnevale and for love. She doesn’t want to be married and she’s worked out the most perfect plan to avoid any suitors. However Luca Boccassio, the newest man who looks to step forward and ask her father’s permission doesn’t seem as easily put off as the rest of them…
Servant to the Contarini household Anna is just one more person with a secret. She desperately needs money so that she can help someone she loves but the only way to get what she needs might be to betray someone else.
Claudia D’Este is the daughter of a prominent social climber who wants nothing more than to be accepted by the elite. But all Claudia wants is to be away from her mother’s schemes and be happy with the boy she loves. But her mother considers no one less than Bastian Donato to be suitable for Claudia and she’s willing to do whatever it takes to get him to help restore the family name.
For this group of teenagers, things after this Carnivale will never be the same again.
I first had my attention drawn towards this book at the PTA Live event that I attended in Melbourne way back in April of this year. The cover wasn’t final then but it was enough and also the description, to immediately hook me in. I’m always on the lookout for books that are fresh and feel different and this one definite ticks those boxes. I haven’t read a YA books set in Venice, let alone one from 1750. And so I couldn’t wait to read this when it arrived on my doorstep.
Immediately the book hooks you in with a mystery – who is Orelia and what is she searching for in Venice? Why did her mother flee the city and never return? I couldn’t wait to know more. Not only is Orelia searching for answers, but she’s very much a fish out of water in Venice. She and her mother lived in a very small village and she’s utterly unused to the glitter and wealth that surrounds the influential families in Venice. And the politics of socialising as well as the desperate clamour by some to get what they want, but Orelia gets quite an education, especially when she catches the eye of the most eligible bachelor, Bastian Donato, who dances with her at the first ball Orelia attends. Orelia isn’t there to find a husband and even if she was, Bastian is not only the one that mothers want for their daughters, he’s the one that Orelia’s own cousin, Angelique, wants for herself as well. Which does complicate matters.
What I loved about this book was despite all of the romantic entanglements and intrigue, they never took over the story of Orelia exploring Venice and where her mother came from and trying to find out the secret behind her fleeing it. She was from a wealthy, privileged family and for her to leave and raise Orelia as a single mother, which was obviously frowned upon, with very little money, it must’ve been something very big. She is always hushed, told never to reveal who her true mother is, to stick to the story that she’s the orphaned goddaughter that has been taken in. Even when she does begin to lose her heart, she still remains focused on finding out what she wants to know – what she needs to know.
The setting is so intriguing – I don’t know much about Venice and certainly not Venice from close to three centuries ago. But the descriptions of elaborate palazzos and the dresses and beautiful eye masks. The author Kylie Fornasier has put together a Pinterest board where you can go and see some of the pictures she has gathered of some of the clothing, masks, paintings of scenery etc and I found this so helpful both when I started reading and also when I’d finished, to just browse through and let the picture build itself up within my mind. It really helps flesh everything out, especially if you’re not very familiar with that era and require a few visuals to help acquaint yourself with the setting and the glamorous lifestyle of the rich and powerful as well as the simple things like the undergarments and hairstyles.
Feels like everything was just starting to really ramp up and become more intricate and I was really excited to find out what happened next when the ending came! I think that as a stand alone, this works well enough but there’s definitely enough done at the end to set up really nicely for a sequel. There are a lot of things left unresolved in a way, for a couple of the characters. I hope there is another book, because I’d really like to revisit this world in the future. The only negative for me is that I didn’t really get the appeal of Bastian beyond the fact that he’s the son of the Doge. The bet does him no favours although the way it played out was unexpected and I really approved of that. I love Orelia for the strength and character she displays. I think another book would probably give Bastian a chance to shine and become the person that he wants to be.
This was highly enjoyable – fun, clever and quite different from the other YA novels I’ve been reading of late.
Giovanni’s daughter Angelique loves Carnevale – it is her favourite time of the year and the celebrations give her ample opportunities to parade beautiful new dresses and elaborate new masks. This season she’s got her eye on the biggest prize of all, the handsome and eligible Bastian Donato. He’s the son of the Doge and the one all of the girls want. But Bastian has other ideas about what he wants out of life, preferring to date widely and unwisely. While Angelique plots, Bastian and his best friend Marco D’Este make a sly little bet.
Angelique’s sister Veronica cares little for Carnevale and for love. She doesn’t want to be married and she’s worked out the most perfect plan to avoid any suitors. However Luca Boccassio, the newest man who looks to step forward and ask her father’s permission doesn’t seem as easily put off as the rest of them…
Servant to the Contarini household Anna is just one more person with a secret. She desperately needs money so that she can help someone she loves but the only way to get what she needs might be to betray someone else.
Claudia D’Este is the daughter of a prominent social climber who wants nothing more than to be accepted by the elite. But all Claudia wants is to be away from her mother’s schemes and be happy with the boy she loves. But her mother considers no one less than Bastian Donato to be suitable for Claudia and she’s willing to do whatever it takes to get him to help restore the family name.
For this group of teenagers, things after this Carnivale will never be the same again.
I first had my attention drawn towards this book at the PTA Live event that I attended in Melbourne way back in April of this year. The cover wasn’t final then but it was enough and also the description, to immediately hook me in. I’m always on the lookout for books that are fresh and feel different and this one definite ticks those boxes. I haven’t read a YA books set in Venice, let alone one from 1750. And so I couldn’t wait to read this when it arrived on my doorstep.
Immediately the book hooks you in with a mystery – who is Orelia and what is she searching for in Venice? Why did her mother flee the city and never return? I couldn’t wait to know more. Not only is Orelia searching for answers, but she’s very much a fish out of water in Venice. She and her mother lived in a very small village and she’s utterly unused to the glitter and wealth that surrounds the influential families in Venice. And the politics of socialising as well as the desperate clamour by some to get what they want, but Orelia gets quite an education, especially when she catches the eye of the most eligible bachelor, Bastian Donato, who dances with her at the first ball Orelia attends. Orelia isn’t there to find a husband and even if she was, Bastian is not only the one that mothers want for their daughters, he’s the one that Orelia’s own cousin, Angelique, wants for herself as well. Which does complicate matters.
What I loved about this book was despite all of the romantic entanglements and intrigue, they never took over the story of Orelia exploring Venice and where her mother came from and trying to find out the secret behind her fleeing it. She was from a wealthy, privileged family and for her to leave and raise Orelia as a single mother, which was obviously frowned upon, with very little money, it must’ve been something very big. She is always hushed, told never to reveal who her true mother is, to stick to the story that she’s the orphaned goddaughter that has been taken in. Even when she does begin to lose her heart, she still remains focused on finding out what she wants to know – what she needs to know.
The setting is so intriguing – I don’t know much about Venice and certainly not Venice from close to three centuries ago. But the descriptions of elaborate palazzos and the dresses and beautiful eye masks. The author Kylie Fornasier has put together a Pinterest board where you can go and see some of the pictures she has gathered of some of the clothing, masks, paintings of scenery etc and I found this so helpful both when I started reading and also when I’d finished, to just browse through and let the picture build itself up within my mind. It really helps flesh everything out, especially if you’re not very familiar with that era and require a few visuals to help acquaint yourself with the setting and the glamorous lifestyle of the rich and powerful as well as the simple things like the undergarments and hairstyles.
Feels like everything was just starting to really ramp up and become more intricate and I was really excited to find out what happened next when the ending came! I think that as a stand alone, this works well enough but there’s definitely enough done at the end to set up really nicely for a sequel. There are a lot of things left unresolved in a way, for a couple of the characters. I hope there is another book, because I’d really like to revisit this world in the future. The only negative for me is that I didn’t really get the appeal of Bastian beyond the fact that he’s the son of the Doge. The bet does him no favours although the way it played out was unexpected and I really approved of that. I love Orelia for the strength and character she displays. I think another book would probably give Bastian a chance to shine and become the person that he wants to be.
This was highly enjoyable – fun, clever and quite different from the other YA novels I’ve been reading of late.
March 15, 2017
Top marks for the writing, story lines and detailed research. I had not realised the draconian world of Venice where there were laws on what could be worn, who could marry who or the Murano glass makers were banned from leaving their island home. And against this, the Venetians partied hard for five months during Carnevale wearing masks to hide their identities so that all of the draconian laws could be broken and secrets hidden.
I found it a bit hard to believe that Orelia, an 18 year old country girl, could assimilate so easy into the upper classes and at her first public appearance could easily banter with the Doge's son.
Nonetheless, the characters were all likeable (except for the evil Signora D'Este and her social climbing son), and the cross-section of servants and well-to-doers worked well.
I found it a bit hard to believe that Orelia, an 18 year old country girl, could assimilate so easy into the upper classes and at her first public appearance could easily banter with the Doge's son.
Nonetheless, the characters were all likeable (except for the evil Signora D'Este and her social climbing son), and the cross-section of servants and well-to-doers worked well.
November 25, 2018
3.5 Stars
To start, I read the updated version from Amazon, not the original printed edition.
I loved the world of this book! Someone please take me to Venice! Orelia and Veronica were my favourite point of views. And there were a lot of point of views.
I really don’t know how I feel about the ending though. We experience so much with the characters, and it’s a standalone but I feel like we didn’t get any closure.
To start, I read the updated version from Amazon, not the original printed edition.
I loved the world of this book! Someone please take me to Venice! Orelia and Veronica were my favourite point of views. And there were a lot of point of views.
I really don’t know how I feel about the ending though. We experience so much with the characters, and it’s a standalone but I feel like we didn’t get any closure.
August 3, 2015
Finished reading: July 27th 2015
“Venice is a stage, Orelia. Pretend for no other reason than to act like everybody else.”
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
April 9, 2016
Review originally posted on Angel Reads
First Line: In a city shrouded in secrets, it was only fitting that Orelia’s first vie of Venice was shrouded in fog.
I received an e-arc of Masquerade by Kylie Fornasier from Netgalley by Penguin Teen Australia. This in no way has influenced my review.
I have been reading so many amazing books lately and Masquerade was nothing less. I absolutely adored Masquerade. I could not put it down at any moment, I was reading both in between classes and in class. It was thrilling and drawing in every way possible.
Venice has always been a place where I have wanted to go since I can remember, but not only that I always wanted to go at the time of carnival. So when I was told that not only is Masquerade set in Venice, but also at the time of carnival? I was in love from that moment on.
Kylie Fornasier's writing is very intriguing and captivating. Once I started to read I was immersed into the story.
Masquerade is really different from what I have read before. First, I don’t read that much Historical Fiction so it’s really nice to read a different genre that I really enjoyed. Also the fact that there are 6 different perspectives gives a whole new feel to the book.
Kylie Fornasier is a genius when it comes to writing different perspectives. At first it was hard for me to know who was who, but not because it was hard to tell person from person. But because there were quite a few. Fornasier was able to write from 6 different perspectives and they didn’t even sound the same. I was able to tell one character from another. It was really interesting.
I really enjoyed all the main characters. They all had different personalities and valued different things, but they were all really likable in different ways.
Orelia is the main protagonist of Masquerade. The story starts when she enters Venice. After the unfortunate event that you find out at the start of the novel Orelia finds her way to Venice in need for a place to live, but something just isn’t right. She is not welcomed in Venice, not at all. I really enjoyed Orelia. At times I just wanted hug her and hold her tight.
Angelique and Veronica are cousins of Orelia. They might be sisters but they are complete opposites. I really enjoyed Angelique. She was sassy, but I felt that she was in love with the thought of love and sometimes that isn’t the best thing. It was really weird reading from Angelique’s POV because, if you didn’t know, that is actually my full name. Veronica is nothing like her sisters. She is quiet and isn’t looking for someone to marry. She is just so against it, but throughout Masquerade you see her crack.
Anna works for Angelique and Veronica’s family. But she isn’t all that she seems. I think that Anna was one of my favourite characters. There was just something about her that I really liked.
Bastian. What can I say about Bastian other than he is a player. There is no denying it. There were times when I wanted to hit him on the head and knock some sense into him. Marco was also a very interesting character.
Claudia. Oh I feel for Claudia so much. With a mother like hers. She was trying to have her own life, but her mother just had to take over.
I loved the setting of Masquerade. Just everything about it made me smile so much. All the balls, dresses, masks. Through the beautiful writing style of Kylie Fornasier I was able to imagine everything.
Everything about Masquerade was just compelling and beautiful. There was just so much drama. It was so interesting and kept me craving more. The ending though. Gosh it was an ending. Everything that happened was so unexpected and left me hanging for more. I need a sequel like right now. I need to know what is going to happen next.
Masquerade is a beautiful and compelling novel that captures you from the very first page. The stunning writing style of Kylie Fornasier brings something new to Australian authors and literature.
First Line: In a city shrouded in secrets, it was only fitting that Orelia’s first vie of Venice was shrouded in fog.
I received an e-arc of Masquerade by Kylie Fornasier from Netgalley by Penguin Teen Australia. This in no way has influenced my review.
I have been reading so many amazing books lately and Masquerade was nothing less. I absolutely adored Masquerade. I could not put it down at any moment, I was reading both in between classes and in class. It was thrilling and drawing in every way possible.
Venice has always been a place where I have wanted to go since I can remember, but not only that I always wanted to go at the time of carnival. So when I was told that not only is Masquerade set in Venice, but also at the time of carnival? I was in love from that moment on.
Kylie Fornasier's writing is very intriguing and captivating. Once I started to read I was immersed into the story.
Masquerade is really different from what I have read before. First, I don’t read that much Historical Fiction so it’s really nice to read a different genre that I really enjoyed. Also the fact that there are 6 different perspectives gives a whole new feel to the book.
Kylie Fornasier is a genius when it comes to writing different perspectives. At first it was hard for me to know who was who, but not because it was hard to tell person from person. But because there were quite a few. Fornasier was able to write from 6 different perspectives and they didn’t even sound the same. I was able to tell one character from another. It was really interesting.
I really enjoyed all the main characters. They all had different personalities and valued different things, but they were all really likable in different ways.
Orelia is the main protagonist of Masquerade. The story starts when she enters Venice. After the unfortunate event that you find out at the start of the novel Orelia finds her way to Venice in need for a place to live, but something just isn’t right. She is not welcomed in Venice, not at all. I really enjoyed Orelia. At times I just wanted hug her and hold her tight.
Angelique and Veronica are cousins of Orelia. They might be sisters but they are complete opposites. I really enjoyed Angelique. She was sassy, but I felt that she was in love with the thought of love and sometimes that isn’t the best thing. It was really weird reading from Angelique’s POV because, if you didn’t know, that is actually my full name. Veronica is nothing like her sisters. She is quiet and isn’t looking for someone to marry. She is just so against it, but throughout Masquerade you see her crack.
Anna works for Angelique and Veronica’s family. But she isn’t all that she seems. I think that Anna was one of my favourite characters. There was just something about her that I really liked.
Bastian. What can I say about Bastian other than he is a player. There is no denying it. There were times when I wanted to hit him on the head and knock some sense into him. Marco was also a very interesting character.
Claudia. Oh I feel for Claudia so much. With a mother like hers. She was trying to have her own life, but her mother just had to take over.
I loved the setting of Masquerade. Just everything about it made me smile so much. All the balls, dresses, masks. Through the beautiful writing style of Kylie Fornasier I was able to imagine everything.
Everything about Masquerade was just compelling and beautiful. There was just so much drama. It was so interesting and kept me craving more. The ending though. Gosh it was an ending. Everything that happened was so unexpected and left me hanging for more. I need a sequel like right now. I need to know what is going to happen next.
Masquerade is a beautiful and compelling novel that captures you from the very first page. The stunning writing style of Kylie Fornasier brings something new to Australian authors and literature.
January 31, 2015
I always love seeing young authors (especially Australian ones) publishing their books and I congratulate Kylie Fornasier. This book was a refreshing read for me. My usual choice of books are often set in futuristic or urban settings so reading about the past was a nice break-especially since it was set in Venice. It is evident that a wide variety of research has been put into the book. All the Italian terms and language phrases really built on a nice atmosphere that helped capture Venice in all its glory.
After finishing this book I can tell that a sequel is around the corner. I have mixed feelings about the end, so I'm hoping that if there is a sequel it will clear things up for me.
Now let me explain why this book didn't quite hit the five stars I was hoping to give it.
The start of the book was beautiful and mysterious, but for some reason the more I got to know the characters the less satisfied I felt. Probably because there was one character I didn't like. At all.
If you've read the book you might know who I'm talking aboutunless you're the type of reader who loves jerks. Bastin. He is the embodiment of everything I despise in a guy. He is the playboy who has basically slept with every girl in Venice. He is the perfect blue eyed blonde who thinks he can get whatever he wants because he has money and social status. His arrogance and horrible personality towards other people's feelings (mainly women) in general just made me want to kick him.
I really wasn't surprised to find out that he acted like he did because he felt trapped inside and that all he wanted to do was escape to explore the worldsomeone like him should just be thankful with what he's got. He is completely spoiled and loved by everyone despite his cruelness. He's lucky he's not a Putano. I didn't want Bastin to be a love interest for anyone because they all deserved so much better. I just felt like he was devious and manipulative, and then his character development happened way too quickly that it was unbelievable. Maybe I'm just the type of reader who likes relationships built around a guy who cares more about the soul of a girl then how the curves of her body feel beneath his fingertips. Maybe I just like the boy next door, someone who is kind and caring and would never hurt someone just to get what they wanted.
I tried, but I just couldn't like Bastin. I did however hate him less at the end.
Moving away from Bastin, I just felt like I had already read this story before. I knew everything that was going to happen before I read it because it was an easy guess-and of course there's nothing wrong with that but I was hoping that something would surprise me as I read.
I found some scenes escalated quickly and some dialogue in places seemed out of character, but this is all a matter of personal opinion. I was still very happy with most of the writing style, it was perfectly descriptive without being too much and I never felt like it wasn't suited (apparent from some OOC dialogue).
Like I said despite what I just said I really enjoyed the book, it was a lovely read. I only hope that if there is a sequel things will be more unpredictable with maybe a few new characters that intrigue me a little moreand don't make a feminist side of me I never knew I had before come out in a fit because women are only loved for their bodies
After finishing this book I can tell that a sequel is around the corner. I have mixed feelings about the end, so I'm hoping that if there is a sequel it will clear things up for me.
Now let me explain why this book didn't quite hit the five stars I was hoping to give it.
The start of the book was beautiful and mysterious, but for some reason the more I got to know the characters the less satisfied I felt. Probably because there was one character I didn't like. At all.
If you've read the book you might know who I'm talking about
I really wasn't surprised to find out that he acted like he did because he felt trapped inside and that all he wanted to do was escape to explore the world
I tried, but I just couldn't like Bastin. I did however hate him less at the end.
Moving away from Bastin, I just felt like I had already read this story before. I knew everything that was going to happen before I read it because it was an easy guess-and of course there's nothing wrong with that but I was hoping that something would surprise me as I read.
I found some scenes escalated quickly and some dialogue in places seemed out of character, but this is all a matter of personal opinion. I was still very happy with most of the writing style, it was perfectly descriptive without being too much and I never felt like it wasn't suited (apparent from some OOC dialogue).
Like I said despite what I just said I really enjoyed the book, it was a lovely read. I only hope that if there is a sequel things will be more unpredictable with maybe a few new characters that intrigue me a little more
August 18, 2014
Arriving in Venice on the eve of Carnevale , Orelia Rossetti has no interest in fancy dresses and elaborate masks. She’s in the City of Bridges to find answers about her late mother. Her uncle takes her in on the condition she tell no one – not even her cousins – her true identity. Posing as his god-daughter, Orelia finds herself swept up in the mystique of Venice’s carnival. Her cousins Angelique and Veronica introduce her to the world of masks and balls but Orelia finds the masquerade extends to more than just the formal events – secrets and deception run rampant through the Venice canals. Orelia gets swept up in the festival and will need to keep her wits about her to avoid the danger of deception.
This debut novel by Kylie Fornasier is full of mystery and intrigue. In addition to Orelia, this novel follows the lives of several Venetian teenagers as they embark on another season of Carnavale. Superstitious Angelique is looking for love and thinks she may have found it – if only it was requited. Angelique’s sister Veronica is not looking for a husband and goes to some very unorthodox methods to avoid being married. Playboy Bastian wants something different from the life he as been dealt and indulges in the occasional bet with his close friend Marco to pass the time. Marco’s sister Claudia has to deal with her overbearing and controlling mother trying to advance their social standing whilst ruining Claudia’s life in the process. And there is Anna – a servant girl – who just wants to save her sister.
I loved how Orelia’s story interacted with each of these characters. All of their lives are so interconnected, it was a pleasure to read just how interlinked everything was. Written as in five acts with each act being preceded by a William Shakespeare quote, Masquerade fully embraced the Venetian vibe. I loved the use of the setting with Venice almost becoming a character itself. The descriptions of the watery city are so vivid - I could almost believe I was in Venice alongside the characters. There is a distinct Venetian vibe thought the entire novel – from when Orelia first arrives in the city to the final page – which added to the mystique and drama. I was also impressed with how well researched with regards to the city but also some of the Italian customs this book was. The way the aristocracy worked, their views towards that which they did not understand, the importance of reputation – never did I question the author’s understanding of life in 1750′s Italy. She made me believe the events of Masquerade could have been historical fact rather than contemporary written fiction.
The title, Masquerade, is clever with the double meaning being appropriate to every part of the story. The characters may spend their lives as masked balls but behind each mask, the wearer is hiding more than just their faces. Orelia finds that she is not the only one with secrets she would rather keep under wraps. The secrets come out (as secrets are prone to do) and I loved finding out what was motivating the characters. There heroes and villains with some wearing both masks as the same time. One of the best things about this novel was how well it was written. It was a pleasure discovering secrets and watching relationships develops over the course of the book. I enjoyed the vastly different characters and my heart rose and broke with their triumphs and heart breaks.
After reading Kylie Fornasier’s debut novel, I can’t wait to read what she writes next. Masquerade was the perfect mix of mystery and drama set in 1750′s Venice. There’s gossip, deceptive antics, meddling families and characters who are hiding more than just their faces behind their Venetian masks. I highly recommend it to fans of well written and exciting stories with a historical European flair.
Thanks to Penguin Teen Australia and Netgalley for the review copy.
This debut novel by Kylie Fornasier is full of mystery and intrigue. In addition to Orelia, this novel follows the lives of several Venetian teenagers as they embark on another season of Carnavale. Superstitious Angelique is looking for love and thinks she may have found it – if only it was requited. Angelique’s sister Veronica is not looking for a husband and goes to some very unorthodox methods to avoid being married. Playboy Bastian wants something different from the life he as been dealt and indulges in the occasional bet with his close friend Marco to pass the time. Marco’s sister Claudia has to deal with her overbearing and controlling mother trying to advance their social standing whilst ruining Claudia’s life in the process. And there is Anna – a servant girl – who just wants to save her sister.
I loved how Orelia’s story interacted with each of these characters. All of their lives are so interconnected, it was a pleasure to read just how interlinked everything was. Written as in five acts with each act being preceded by a William Shakespeare quote, Masquerade fully embraced the Venetian vibe. I loved the use of the setting with Venice almost becoming a character itself. The descriptions of the watery city are so vivid - I could almost believe I was in Venice alongside the characters. There is a distinct Venetian vibe thought the entire novel – from when Orelia first arrives in the city to the final page – which added to the mystique and drama. I was also impressed with how well researched with regards to the city but also some of the Italian customs this book was. The way the aristocracy worked, their views towards that which they did not understand, the importance of reputation – never did I question the author’s understanding of life in 1750′s Italy. She made me believe the events of Masquerade could have been historical fact rather than contemporary written fiction.
The title, Masquerade, is clever with the double meaning being appropriate to every part of the story. The characters may spend their lives as masked balls but behind each mask, the wearer is hiding more than just their faces. Orelia finds that she is not the only one with secrets she would rather keep under wraps. The secrets come out (as secrets are prone to do) and I loved finding out what was motivating the characters. There heroes and villains with some wearing both masks as the same time. One of the best things about this novel was how well it was written. It was a pleasure discovering secrets and watching relationships develops over the course of the book. I enjoyed the vastly different characters and my heart rose and broke with their triumphs and heart breaks.
After reading Kylie Fornasier’s debut novel, I can’t wait to read what she writes next. Masquerade was the perfect mix of mystery and drama set in 1750′s Venice. There’s gossip, deceptive antics, meddling families and characters who are hiding more than just their faces behind their Venetian masks. I highly recommend it to fans of well written and exciting stories with a historical European flair.
Thanks to Penguin Teen Australia and Netgalley for the review copy.
September 9, 2014
Set in 1750s Venice during the five month period of Carnivale, Masquerade is a highly entertaining novel that follows seven teens as they try in vain to protect their secrets. The author described this novel as Gossip Girl meets Carnivale, and I’d have to agree.
Full of scandals, backstabbing, a wonderful amount of flirting, and quite a bit of scheming, Masquerade keeps you so engrossed that you don’t even remember flipping the page to find out what happens next.
Plot:
I was far more invested in the plot than I originally expected to be, but seeing as how I was addicted to Gossip Girl, I suppose it’s not too surprising. There is so much scheming going on in Masquerade, everyone has an agenda, and most of the characters are only looking out for themselves. It’s fantastic.
Characters:
This novel follows seven characters, all of them hiding a secret.
The first main character we follow is Orelia Rossetti, newly orphaned and not at all confident in who she is. She's a bit plain and doesn't do much to begin with, but she really grows into herself.
Next we meet Angelique and Veronica Contarini, Orelia’s cousins. Angelique is fun, love sick and will do almost anything to get her way. Veronica was one of my favourite characters. She’s headstrong, knows what she wants, how to get it, and is completely confident in who she is.
We then come to know about Anna, the Contarini’s teenage servant, and Angelique’s lady’s maid. Anna is very interesting, she faces a lot of inner demons and is far more troubled than anyone her age should be.
Claudia and Marco D’Est are next. I really loved Claudia, she’s such a lovely character who only wants to be with the man she loves. Her brother, Marco, is just trouble.
Lastly, we have Bastian Donato. Bastian is Marco’s best friend and the son of the Dodge (the elected head of council). I loved following his plot line, and I wasn’t sure how to feel about him. He was your typical self-involved person who likes to let loose and have fun, but he also faces a lot of personal indecision and feels trapped in his life.
All the characters were so entertaining to follow. None of them were boring at all.
Writing:
The writing was easy to follow and moved quickly. There were a few parts when it felt like the timeline jumped forward without wrapping a scene well enough, and there were a few points where the characters did things that seemed very rushed and the actions didn't flow well enough to fit the story, but it didn't happen often enough to be annoying, and it worked well in terms of how the story is set out.
The plot was completely driven by character interaction and I just wanted to see more. The way the balls and parties and rooms and homes are described, it all just makes you wish you were there experiencing it all with the characters.
General Comments:
Reading Masquerade was just fun, and watching all the drama unfold was far more amusing than I imagined it would be. This book left me with a strong urge to visit Venice and gallivant around in beautiful dresses and matching masks. I seriously hope there is a sequel, because I definitely need one.
Favourite Non-Spoiler-y Quote:
"I do not want to marry you. [...] I would rather wear a belt of thorns as sharp as your tongue around my waist that would stab me with every move I make."
Overall Rating:
4.5/5
Full of scandals, backstabbing, a wonderful amount of flirting, and quite a bit of scheming, Masquerade keeps you so engrossed that you don’t even remember flipping the page to find out what happens next.
Plot:
I was far more invested in the plot than I originally expected to be, but seeing as how I was addicted to Gossip Girl, I suppose it’s not too surprising. There is so much scheming going on in Masquerade, everyone has an agenda, and most of the characters are only looking out for themselves. It’s fantastic.
Characters:
This novel follows seven characters, all of them hiding a secret.
The first main character we follow is Orelia Rossetti, newly orphaned and not at all confident in who she is. She's a bit plain and doesn't do much to begin with, but she really grows into herself.
Next we meet Angelique and Veronica Contarini, Orelia’s cousins. Angelique is fun, love sick and will do almost anything to get her way. Veronica was one of my favourite characters. She’s headstrong, knows what she wants, how to get it, and is completely confident in who she is.
We then come to know about Anna, the Contarini’s teenage servant, and Angelique’s lady’s maid. Anna is very interesting, she faces a lot of inner demons and is far more troubled than anyone her age should be.
Claudia and Marco D’Est are next. I really loved Claudia, she’s such a lovely character who only wants to be with the man she loves. Her brother, Marco, is just trouble.
Lastly, we have Bastian Donato. Bastian is Marco’s best friend and the son of the Dodge (the elected head of council). I loved following his plot line, and I wasn’t sure how to feel about him. He was your typical self-involved person who likes to let loose and have fun, but he also faces a lot of personal indecision and feels trapped in his life.
All the characters were so entertaining to follow. None of them were boring at all.
Writing:
The writing was easy to follow and moved quickly. There were a few parts when it felt like the timeline jumped forward without wrapping a scene well enough, and there were a few points where the characters did things that seemed very rushed and the actions didn't flow well enough to fit the story, but it didn't happen often enough to be annoying, and it worked well in terms of how the story is set out.
The plot was completely driven by character interaction and I just wanted to see more. The way the balls and parties and rooms and homes are described, it all just makes you wish you were there experiencing it all with the characters.
General Comments:
Reading Masquerade was just fun, and watching all the drama unfold was far more amusing than I imagined it would be. This book left me with a strong urge to visit Venice and gallivant around in beautiful dresses and matching masks. I seriously hope there is a sequel, because I definitely need one.
Favourite Non-Spoiler-y Quote:
"I do not want to marry you. [...] I would rather wear a belt of thorns as sharp as your tongue around my waist that would stab me with every move I make."
Overall Rating:
4.5/5
Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews