Review: Behind the Mask by Elizabeth Coldwell

Title: Behind the Mask

Author: Elizabeth Coldwell

Length: 36 Pages

Category: Contemporary, Action/Adventure

At a Glance: A quick and enjoyable read. Not too deep, which would be nearly impossible in such a short number of pages, but packing a fun little punch nonetheless.

Reviewed By: Taz

Blurb: He keeps his true identity hidden, even from the man he loves…

Twenty years ago, superheroes were outlawed by the mayor of Mokum City. Christopher Chase has grown up knowing that he has all the strength and speed of Sprint, his superhero father, who died attempting to save the mayor’s niece from being kidnapped. But, unlike his father, he is unable to fulfil his destiny and become a masked crimefighter. Even Christopher’s boyfriend, bar owner Jimmy Brennan, doesn’t know Christopher’s true identity.

A chance encounter with a purse snatcher in the city cemetery gives Christopher a taste of what it’s like to use his powers for good. And when Jimmy becomes caught up in a hostage situation, Christopher can no longer stand by. Even if it means losing his own life, he must pull on the costume of Sprint to save the man he loves.

Review: Behind the Mask was a cute short story that follows Chris as he wrestles with the struggle we all do: how can I be true to myself? Living in a city where his true nature has been outlawed, he must live in secrecy, even from his own lover. While he manages to etch out a happy little corner for himself, finding love and fulfillment in Jimmy, he must always keep a huge part of who he is secret.

Superheroes have been outlawed by a mayor who is portrayed to be less than honorable, but when Christopher finds himself in a situation where his lover’s life is in danger, he throws caution to the wind and uses his God-given talents to protect the man he loves.

In its own sweet way, this story is kind of like a coming out story, but in a roundabout manner. Being gay and living in an openly gay relationship is a non-issue for Chris. But having to admit who he really is, who his father really was, is terrifying to him. He fears he may lose everything unless his secret remains safely guarded.

And like all coming out stories, we witness how the surrounding characters react. To say more would be to give away the story.

A quick and enjoyable read. Not too deep, which would be nearly impossible in such a short number of pages, but packing a fun little punch nonetheless.

You can buy Behind the Mask here:

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