When the Mask Slips—A Cyberpunk Fantasy with High Stakes and Complex Morality

Let's talk about my latest read; it was surprisingly different than I expected. You know I read a lot of fantasy, specifically urban fantasy, which typically takes place in a contemporary setting. Today's book, When the Mask Slips, is set in London 2531 A.D. and fusions elements of detective noir, cyberpunk, mystery crime and fantasy in a most compelling fashion. In a way, it reminded me of Anna Mocikat's Shadow City, which I adored.

I got this book on a whim along with many others on Stuff Your Kindle Day Fantasy edition, and I'm glad I did.

Iris Kayan’s When the Mask Slips is a refreshing departure from traditional urban fantasy, blending cyberpunk aesthetics with a touch of magic. Set in a futuristic world filled with intrigue and morally complex characters, this novel is a must-read for fans of dystopian fantasy and crime thrillers.

What I Loved

The dual POV structure works beautifully here, allowing us to get inside the minds of both main characters. Lynx Wu, the by-the-book detective with an unyielding sense of justice, contrasts perfectly with Sutyu Lam, the enigmatic villain with a righteous cause. Their relationship development is a slow burn filled with tension, and while I wished for a bit more chemistry between them, their dynamic raises the stakes of the plot in thrilling ways. The layers of secrecy between them create a gripping sense of inevitability that kept me hooked.

The magic system is another standout element. The concept of auras and the ability to sever and repurpose magic is fascinating, offering a fresh take on power dynamics in a futuristic setting. Kayan’s world-building is immersive, and I appreciated the way magic and technology coexist in a cyberpunk landscape.

The characters are well-developed, and their backstories unfold like pieces of an investigation. Lynx is the quintessential grumpy detective, complex and deeply driven, while Sutyu is a badass woman with a past that raises moral questions at every turn. Despite her questionable actions, she remains compelling and undeniably likable.

What Didn’t Resonate With Me

While I loved the relationship dynamic, I did wish for a little more chemistry between Lynx and Sutyu. Their bond is impactful, but the romantic tension doesn’t quite hit the level I was hoping for.

Themes & Tropes

- 🌆 Cyberpunk aesthetic

- 🔍 Mystery and crime thriller elements

- 🧙‍♂️ Unique magic system

- 👮‍♂️ Grumpy detective

- 🏴‍☠️ Morally complex antiheroine

- 🤐 Secrets and hidden pasts

- 🚀 Futuristic dystopian world

Final Thoughts

When the Mask Slips is a thrilling and immersive read, perfect for fans of dystopian fantasy and crime fiction. With a unique blend of cyberpunk intrigue and magical innovation, it delivers a high-stakes story full of secrets and complex morality. If you enjoy futuristic mysteries with deep character development, this book deserves a spot on your TBR!