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City of Masks

Book 1 in the series:Cree Black

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'City of Masks' in the 'Cree Black' series by Daniel Hecht follows the paranormal detective Cree Black as she navigates the haunted city of New Orleans. The narrative seamlessly weaves together Cree's personal struggles with her profession as a ghost-hunting psychologist, creating a dark and intriguing thriller that explores themes of mystery, ghosts, and the supernatural. The author's detailed descriptions of the city and the ghostly menace within Beauforte House bring the setting alive, while the well-drawn and sympathetic characters drive the story forward, keeping readers engaged till the end.

Characters:

The characters are complex and relatable, particularly the protagonist, Cree Black, whose depth and motivations enhance the story.

Writing/Prose:

The prose is well-crafted, richly descriptive, and backed by thorough research, making the narrative engaging and immersive.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot intertwines a ghost story, romance, and historical themes, though these elements can distract from the main narrative. There are twists that keep the reader engaged despite some predictability.

Setting:

The setting in New Orleans is vividly brought to life, adding a rich cultural backdrop to the narrative.

Pacing:

The pacing is inconsistent, with earlier sections being more engaging than the later parts, which can feel drawn out.
"No. A nickname. Short for Lucretia, which by the time I was five years old struck me as too old-fashioned to live with. You're welcome to call me Ms. Black, Mr. Beauforte." Cree smiled but put enough...

Notes:

Daniel Hecht is known for his detailed writing and research.
The novel combines three elements: a ghost story, a romance, and a narrative about New Orleans families.
The main character, Cree Black, is a ghost-hunting psychologist.
Hecht is praised for making readers care about his characters.
The book contains unexpected twists despite early guesses about the villain.
Some themes, like repressed memory and multiple personality disorder, are included but not deeply explored.
Setting details about New Orleans enhance the story's atmosphere.
The book was found comforting by some readers, even though it has dark themes.
Cree's profession makes the narrative unique, blending paranormal investigation with psychology.
Readers enjoyed the accurate depiction of real locations in New Orleans and Seattle within the story.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

There are content warnings regarding themes of emotional trauma, mental health issues, and dark themes.

Has Romance?

There is a medium level of romance present, primarily revolving around the relationship between Cree and Paul.

From The Publisher:

In "City of Masks," the first Cree Black novel, parapsychologist Cree and her partner take a case in New Orleans's Garden District that leaves them fearing for their own lives. The 150-year-old Beauforte House has long stood empty, until Lila Beauforte resumes residence and starts to see some of the house's secrets literally come to life. Tormented by an insidious and violent presence, Lila finds herself trapped in a life increasingly filled with childhood terrors. It takes Cree's unconventional take on psychology and her powerful natural empathy with Lila to navigate the dangerous worlds of spirit and memory, as they clash in a terrifying tale of mistaken identity and murder.

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About the Author:

Daniel Hecht is the author of two previous novels, Skull Session and The Babel Effect. Land of Echoes is second in the Cree Black series.

 
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