Author : Jay Pellegrin
Book : Wizard's Masquerade
/NA,Fantasy Romance/
/Huskarl Duology Book 1/
Publication date : September 30, 2022
Blurb:
Who knew the jester was dangerous, or that he would try to steal her heart?
After surviving a horrendous injury, twenty-two-year-old wizard Leyna finds her dream of a glorious career in ruins—until she receives an offer to join the Royal Guard.
But Leyna’s dream soon turns into a nightmare when tragic news arrives of an attack on the king and his court during their travels.
As Leyna’s world is turned upside down, she devotes herself to restoring normalcy at Rutherford Castle and uncovering the true culprit of the attacks.
But the castle’s inhabitants hold dangerous secrets, including the mysterious jester, who is both infuriating and charming. As Leyna is drawn deeper into a web of secrets and lies, they become entangled in a treacherous game of trust and betrayal—but can she trust the jester with her heart?
My thoughts:
Wizard's Masquerade is the first book of the Huskarl duology.
Enchanting from the very first page!
The cover is exquisite like a fine wine and to be honest, the cover is what grabbed my attention instantly!
With the atmosphere of a gorgeous painting yet with some modern vibe, all blended into one gorgeous result.
Straight from the beginning, we dive into heart pounding action as our female lead Leyna makes her final steps towards her dream.
To become an esteemed wizard and part of the Royal Guard.
After plenty of obstacles, she finally receives the much desired offer to be a huskarl.
But soon she realizes that not everything is black and white and everyone plays a game of their own.
Entangled in a web of lies, spies, and a jester that is so alluring and charming as the lies he tells, she no longer knows what to believe and what to do.
Leyna's character was most impressive to follow as you witness her shift to self-righteous and little arrogant to humble self discovery.
And I think the mantra is suiting her perfectly :
“We fight, even without hope.”
I loved how well-made and complex was the character of the jester, and the fact that we follow the story only from Leyna's POV gives him more mystery.
And although I was dying to learn what goes through his head, it was a bittersweet to anticipate all his reactions and trying to decipher the enigma that he is.
I'm in abstinence after finishing the book and desperately want to see where the story will lead us.