Masquerade: Book Two of the Unchained Trilogy - Softcover

Part two of a dramatic historical fiction trilogy that continues a compelling American family saga. “If, like me, you are a fan of historical fiction -- especially when it's done with a real feel for previous eras -- then you'll love Masquerade, the second volume in Maria McKenzie's tale of love and race, politics and passion, in America. With its roots set in 1856, it's a novel that provides a necessary, if hard, history lesson, as well as a personal narrative of secrecy and shame, forgiveness and, ultimately, acceptance." - Robert Masello, author of The Romanov Cross and Robert’s Rules of Writing. Celebrated actress Lavinia Hargraves performs her most challenging role offstage. Although born in 1872 to Daniel Taylor, a white man and wealthy landowner in southern California, Lavinia’s mother, Lori, is a Negro and former slave. Lavinia, who appears white, is desperate to hide her Negro ancestry, as well as pursue her dream of becoming the world’s greatest actress. After eloping with the much older Vernon Hargraves, owner of New York’s premier theater troupe, Lavinia is provided with all she could ever want: a new life as white, stardom on the stage, and an abundant supply of money. Soon Lavinia’s seduction by a young and handsome actor sets in motion a devastating turn of events. Dashing millionaire contractor Andrew Standish comes into Lavinia’s life at a time when she needs him most. However, Lori's existence could demolish her daughter's carefully constructed facade. To what lengths will Andrew go to uncover Lavinia's past?

Weaving together history, scandal, romance and suspense, Maria McKenzie is the author of the Amazon bestsellers The Governor’s Sons, and books one, two and three of the Unchained Trilogy: Escape, Masquerade and Revelation. Taking a brief departure from historical fiction, Maria is currently at work on her next release, the comedic mystery/clean romance, From Cad to Cadaver, featuring ex-FBI agent turned detective,Tracy Black, of Black Ops Detective Agency, and her partner, ex-Marine Raider Adam Slade. She's black, he's white, but the situations they stumble into are hardly black and white! Join them in a series of adventures that will keep you laughing! Maria lives in Cincinnati with her husband and two boys. Before becoming a stay-at-home mom, small business owner and author, Maria worked in Georgia and North Carolina as a librarian for several years. She attended Wittenberg University and received a bachelor’s degree in English, and later graduated from Atlanta University with a master’s in Library Science. You can visit Maria at www.mariamckenziewrites.com or send her an email at mariamckenziewrites@gmail.com. She would love to hear from you!