Book description
Set in Talia, a parallel world very similar to 16th-century Italy, the narrative follows Lucien, who in our world is very ill. Given a marbled notebook to use as a diary, the notebook is the unexpected means that transports Lucien to this dangerous new world; a world that thrills to…
Why read it?
2 authors picked Stravaganza City of Masks as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?
How could I not love a book set in an alternate Renaissance Venice? When modern-day teenager Lucien “stravagates” in his sleep to Belezza, he discovers a world of gondolas and bridges, spies and alchemy. I love the way Venetian customs are ramped up to fantasy proportions—for example, the traditional “marriage with the sea” involves the ruling Duchessa actually plunging into the lagoon—or does it?
The book moves between the fantastical Bellezza and the “real world” of modern-day Britain, where Lucien is a teenage cancer patient. Lucien’s increasing illness in our world provides added jeopardy to the adventures in Belezza, where…
From Elizabeth's list on YA historical fantasies with settings to die for.
If your favorite song is “Wildest Dreams” try City of Masks, by Mary Hoffman. This is an older book, but it’s one of my favs.
It’s about a boy with cancer who every night dreams and wakes up in a fantastic version of Italy, where he isn’t sick from cancer. I love its lush and dangerous feel; something about the intrigue, masks, and romance get me every time.
I also loved the female characters in this book—they’re driven and complicated and so fun to read. It all feels like a wild, wonderful dream you won’t want to come back…
From H.J.'s list on reads according to your favorite Taylor Swift song.
If you love Stravaganza City of Masks...
THE END - Alpha
When a man with power believes he's God, mankind doesn't have a prayer.
In a world ravaged by chaos and despair, where faith itself is under siege, one man’s thirst for power threatens to plunge humanity into darkness.
The End: Alpha thrusts readers into the year 2113, where Constantine…
Want books like Stravaganza City of Masks?
Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like Stravaganza City of Masks.
Share your top 3 reads of 2025!
And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.
1,366
readers submitted
so far, will you?
