By Ardain Isma
CSMS Magazine
Navigating the diverse literary tastes of readers can be a daunting task for any writer. Yet, Lauren Masterson, also known as Alice Liddell, has mastered this challenge with aplomb. Her works, spanning across fantasy, romance, and historical fiction, have touched countless hearts, captivating audiences with their depth and resonance.
My journey into the realm of fantasy literature was transformed when I read “Succumb to Darkness.” This novel faultlessly blends marvel, exploration, and adventure, whisking readers away to distant lands where mythical beings roam and epic battles between good and evil unfold. Against the backdrop of a peasant revolt against the French aristocracy, Lauren deftly weaves a narrative that resonates with dystopian undertones, mirroring the struggles of the oppressed masses.
At the core of the story are three compelling characters: Seigneur Verseau, the enigmatic leader of a vampire court, Àmichemin, and Evanangela, a fallen angel condemned to a vampiric existence by divine decree. Set against the backdrop of 18th-century France, Lauren’s portrayal of the era showcases her mastery of the French language and her keen understanding of revolutionary history. French expressions flawlessly punctuate the narrative, enhancing the authenticity of the setting and enriching the reader’s experience.
Besides “Succumb to Darkness,” I read “Geisha Hands.” This one is a fully illustrated historical fiction novel that depicts geisha culture in an entirely new way. I also read “Freja’s Baby,” an intriguing romance novel that has pleased many readers since its inception two years ago.
I must say Lauren is a kind of a literary chameleon whose pen dances effortlessly across genres, weaving tales that captivate readers of all tastes. A gifted storyteller, her imagination is a boundless realm where fantasy dragons soar, romance blooms under moonlit skies, and historical figures come alive in vivid detail.
In “Succumb to Darkness”, her mastery shines like a beacon in the night. Needless to explain how much I enjoyed it. Lauren’s prose transports readers like me to where magic is palpable and adventure awaits at every turn—a testament to her skill at world-building and her ability to imbue her stories with depth and wonder.
Yet, as I already mentioned, Lauren’s talents extend far beyond the fantastical. In the sphere of romance, her words are like a lover’s whisper, tender and intoxicating. With a deft touch, she crafts “Freja’s Baby” with both passion and tenderness, exploring the complexities of love in all its forms. The two protagonists, Alex and Freja, got me on the hook from the get-go, their emotions, raw and real, drew me into their whirlwind romance and left me yearning for more.
But it is perhaps in the scope of historical fiction that Lauren’s talents truly shine brightest. I teach research methods, I can tell. With meticulous research and an eye for detail, she brings the past to life in vibrant technicolor. From the opulent courts of medieval Europe to the tumultuous battlefields of revolutionary France, Lauren’s historical epics are a testament to her dedication to authenticity and her passion for storytelling. Through the eyes of her characters, I was transported back in time, experiencing the triumphs and tribulations of bygone eras firsthand. Both “Succumb to Darkness” and “Geisha Hands” are designed like a tapestry woven from the threads of the past, each thread carefully chosen and expertly placed to create a masterpiece of storytelling.
For those eager to explore her literary universe further, follow her on Twitter or visit her Linktree page to discover her books and delve into worlds of imagination and wonder.
Also, to get the feel of the author, watch the video below. In it, Lauren and I chat about “Succumb to Darkness.”
Note: Ardain Isma is the Chief-Editor of CSMS Magazine. He is a prolific writer and author of several books, including Midnight at Noon, Bittersweet Memories of Last Spring, and Last Spring was Bittersweet. You can order the books by clicking on the links above.
