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The novel Masquerade was an enjoyable read which started
slowly but picked up and had me wanting to find out what adventure
or misadventure the characters would get into next. Set in 1886,
the story is about Charlotte Gleason, who has lived a privileged
life. Charlotte is sent to New York to marry a son of a wealthy
merchant. En route to America, she switches places with her maid
Dora and sends Dora to the wealthy merchant so she can have a chance
at freedom and "real life." Both girls encounter worlds and situations
they are not familiar with as the story twists and turns.
This story was well researched, with careful consideration given
to the descriptions of the period clothing and the mannerisms and
conditions of the classes. Masquerade is best suited
for teens and older due to the harsh topics, including conditions
in the tenements of New York. This book does not contain any graphic
scenes, but there is one scene where a minor character threatens
to steal the virtue of a major character. The text is a little
veiled, so it is not overly disturbing, and the girl does escape
with her virtue untouched. This book would make an excellent addition
to a discussion with teens through adults on the classes of the
era, working conditions, immigration, and costumes. I especially
enjoyed the pictures of the dresses that inspired Mrs. Moser's
characters' clothing and notes at the end of the story.
This is a story about change of heart, experiences, and following
the plan the Lord has set forth in one's life. The Christian dialogue,
while not obtrusive, is not hidden or subtle in this book and for
the most part fits with the storyline in appropriate places. While
it took me a few pages to get involved in the story (both because
it was a little slow in the beginning and because I had just finished
reading a very fast paced novel), I thoroughly enjoyed reading
this book once I got going. If you enjoy reading about people,
customs, places, and adventures, then you will like this book.
Product review by Marisa Corless, MH, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine,
LLC, October 2010
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