When a heartbroken Maia reluctantly shows up to a masquerade ball determined to forget love entirely, she kisses a devastatingly charming stranger—only to discover he's her ex's older brother, making everything deliciously complicated. But their electric second-chance moment gets interrupted when a guest turns up dead, forcing Maia to help unmask a killer before the mystery ruins what might be her shot at genuine happiness. Catherine Cowles serves up the perfect blend of witty banter, chilling suspense, and swoon-worthy romance in this snowed-in page-turner that proves sometimes the best love stories come when you're not looking for them.

Reading soundtrack

Listen while you read

Spotify

intoxicatingmysterioustension-filleddarkly romanticexhilarating

Witty, electric tension meets dark mystery. Blend moody indie pop with sultry R&B and atmospheric suspense—think midnight masquerade energy. Rediscovery, second chances, and danger swirling together. Artists like Phoebe Bridgers, SZA, and The Neighbourhood capture this intoxicating push-pull of attraction amid shadows.