I received a copy of this book from Netgalley/the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

I have always loved books set in 19^th century England, so I was very excited to read These Vicious Masks. This young adult novel is a collaboration between debut authors Tarun Shanker and Kelly Zekas.

Evelyn Wyndham is a bright and lively young woman. One evening, she attends a party at a neighboring estate with her family. On the way, they see something quite extraordinary, and then at the party, they are introduced to their host’s brooding nephew Sebastian. The next morning, Evelyn’s sister Rose is missing from her bedroom. It appears that she left in a hurry, and perhaps under duress.

Evelyn’s parents want to avoid a scandal, so they are reluctant to report that their daughter is missing. However, they did not consider that Evelyn cares more for her Rose than for her own reputation. And so, without the assistance of her parents, Evelyn travels to London to track down her missing sister. She is determined to find her sister, but polite society frowns upon young women venturing to certain parts of the city. Fortunately for Evelyn, she has the assistance of several friends who are willing to help her travel to those unsavory locales in search of Rose, and more importantly, the truth about why she was taken.

I cannot say anything more without beginning to give too much away, and even if I began to reveal what transpires on Evelyn’s trip to London, it would be difficult to believe. Needless to say, the tagline “Jane Austen meets X-­Men” is most appropriate. This book has it all: a love triangle, phenomenal abilities, intrigue, mystery, and much more.

I would absolutely recommend These Vicious Masks. The concept is interesting, and the story continues to build upon itself right up until the very end. It appears as though this is the beginning of a new series, and would be just wonderful. I can’t wait for more witty dialogue between Evelyn and Sebastian and Mr. Kent.