First of all, thank you — truly — for picking up The Masquerade.

This story is not a fairytale. It’s a maze of darkness, secrets, and shifting masks. It features multiple couples, interwoven plots, psychological warfare, and romance wrapped in shadows. Expect the unexpected — because in this book, nothing is what it seems.

But before you begin, I need to set a few things straight. So later, you don’t come haunting me down with pitchforks or — as I like to say — biting my poor behind 🙂.

✦ 1. All Characters Are Morally Grey

No one here is completely good — or completely evil. They all walk the line. If you're looking for perfect, sunshine characters who never cross the line — this might not be the book for you. But if you’re ready to meet people who are broken, complicated, and sometimes downright unhinged — welcome.

Every character will get their moment. Let them.

Be patient. Trust the chaos.

✦ 2. This Book Contains Sensitive Themes

This is a psychological thriller. Which means things will get dark. Uncomfortable. Twisted.

Topics explored include:

Psychological manipulation

Mental illness

Violence and trauma

Harassment and abuse

Blood and death

Sexual assault (never romanticized)

Please prioritize your mental health. If any of these topics are triggering for you, it’s absolutely okay to step away. Each chapter will carry appropriate trigger warnings.

✦ 3. I Do Not Glorify Sexual Assault

Let me be very clear: None of the main characters will ever romanticize rape or sexual violence.

I’m a teenager myself — and I write with responsibility. I will never justify or glorify such acts in the name of “dark romance.”

Dark does not mean disrespectful.

Twisted does not mean tone-deaf.

✦ 4. Comments Are Welcome, But…

Say what you want — scream, cry, rant — I love seeing your reactions. But let’s keep the space respectful. Constructive criticism? Great. Creative roasting? Go ahead. But cursing at me or other readers? Not okay.

If you're angry, say "besan ke ladoo" and move on. You’d be surprised how effective it is.

✦ 5. You are Will Hate the Characters

You’re supposed to.

You’ll love them, then hate them, then maybe love them again — that’s the journey.

Some scenes will make your skin crawl. Some truths will shake you. The backstories are darker than the present — and the past is the real monster here.

But everything — and I mean everything — is part of the bigger plan.

✦ Final Word

No one is forcing you to read this story. If at any point you feel it’s not for you — you’re free to walk away. Just don’t send hate toward me or others because things didn’t go the way you expected.

This is fiction. This is a ride. And if you’re staying — I promise it’s going to be one hell of a journey.

Thank you for being here.

Thank you for reading.

With all my heart (and a little bit of darkness),

Nishika .