Review: What is Hidden by Lauren Skidmore

What Is HiddenWhat is Hidden
by Lauren Skidmore
YA Fantasy, Fairy Tale Retelling
Paperback256 Pages
May 13th 2014 by Cedar Fort Publishing & Media

Summary

In a land of masquerades and mystery, Evie is a mask maker in Venesia, where masks represent rank and identity. When a cryptic bandit strips away Evie’s mask and destroys her home, she goes into hiding at the palace to find both a new identity—and revenge. Fantasy lovers will be caught up by the mystique, romance, and magic of "What Is Hidden."

You can read more about What is Hidden herehere, and here.
    


My Review

I was hoping that What is Hidden would turn out to be a great story and I was so happy to find out that it was! It's a fantasy, a Cinderella retelling, and overall a thoroughly enjoyable story of friendship, heartbreak, love, and learning to trust.

I was hooked from the first chapter. I loved how the author introduced her two main characters and how easily I fell in love with them both. I loved how their relationship develops over time. They are first and foremost friends, and the best of friends at that. I loved how they teased each other, how there were equally humorous, quiet, serious, and lovely moments. A lot of their banter just cracked me up and made me smile. At the same time they both just melted my heart.

I was really curious about the Chameleon and what his purpose and end game was. I knew it would come to a head at some point, but I really had no clue what would happen. The one thing I wanted more of was more explanation and development on his end. It's actually set up perfectly for a second book that would hopefully explain that all. Between the two MC's relationship and the influence of the Chameleon, the story kept me engaged. I literally could not put this one down!

I would definitely recommend What is Hidden to those who enjoy reading fantasy, fairy tale retellings, or just engaging happily-ever-after stories. I know I'm looking forward to this author's next book because I loved this one so much!

Content: Clean (There is some violence, but not too gory or descriptive enough for this to not still be clean.)

Source: From the publisher, which did not affect my review in any way.


Want to win know more about the masks in this storybook world? The author, Lauren Skidmore, is stopping by today here to do just that and you can also enter to win your own copy of What is Hidden!


8 comments

  1. This sounds like such a great read again! I also love the cover! Very helpful review!

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  2. Oooo...another fairy tale retelling!

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  3. I hadn't heard of this one, but it sounds so good! The relationship sounds like it was well done. I love when there's banter and humor. And I'm always looking for a happily ever after story! ~Pam

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  4. Great review! Fantasy and fairy tale retellings are two of my favorite things! This looks like a fun book! Thanks for sharing!

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  5. I really enjoyed it and I'm thrilled that it will be a series! I'm already looking forward to it!

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  6. There is a lot of teasing and just good camaraderie between the two MC's. I like it when the romance doesn't go from 0-60 in the first few chapters.

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  7. I would definitely recommend it, Natalie!

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