Masque

Bethany Pope already has an established reputation as a good poet. This novel shows that she has what it takes to also excel in writing prose fiction. 'Masque' is written as three interweaving first-person narratives and the author does a good job in creating three distinct people and showing us in what ways they experience and understand the same events differently. This is one of the primary ways in which the readers' sympathies are engaged and directed. It is done very skilfully. The novel is overtly a fresh take on Gaston Leroux's 'The Phantom of the Opera' and a familiarity with at least the basic plot of Leroux's novel will add to ones appreciation of 'Masque'. However, I felt that another story was also important in this way and it is one that is mentioned several times by the character Erik. This is 'Beauty and the Beast'. Again, a familiarity with that story will enhance ones reading of 'Masque'.

Very enjoyable

This is a wonderful debut novel by Bethany Pope. I have always loved 'The Phantom of the Opera' and wondered how an author could remake the tale as her own. Pope has certainly succeeded on that score. The insight into the characters made this a breathtaking and entirely new take on an old story while perfectly complementing the original. Erik and Christine's story gripped me from the start. The writing is rich and dark and intense. It's a marvel of Gothic glory. I know that Bethany Pope is a poet but I hope this foray into the world of prose will not be her last. A fabulous book, highly recommended.

Masque is a fantastic read and unlike anything else Pope has written thus far. She masterfully weaves a tale based on The Phantom of the Opera, from the point of view of all three main characters. Because of this, I found myself sucked into the story, rooting for them, being repulsed by them, and believing in them wholeheartedly. The best feeling when finishing a novel is the feeling of satisfaction, and the notion that you've been on a journey and you've come to the end feeling fulfilled. I definitely felt like Masque was a wonderful literary experience, and I hope Pope will consider writing more novels like this in the future.

I adore this book in all its gothic finery and splendour. You can hear the bones of Paris calling you, singing in the bowels of the opera house in a bountiful harvest of desire, caught like a hare in a trap. I loved the story, it was the flesh behind the flesh of Leroux's story. Use this book as a compendium, a compliment, to Gaston Leroux masterpiece. Ms. Pope is indeed the prima donna.

A gorgeously Gothic read

A richly written novel that takes us into the psychological depths of the characters from The Phantom of the Opera. The author breathes new life into the characters, fleshing them out and showing you what lies beneath the mask. An Excellent read.