The Mask Falling
The Mask Falling is a 2021 supernatural dystopian novel by British author Samantha Shannon. It is the fourth book in The Bone Season series.
Plot in simple terms
Paige Mahoney, a Dreamwalker, is believed to be dead after escaping Scion London. She finds shelter in a Paris safe house within the Scion Citadel. The Domino program has plans for her, and her growing bond with her former captor Arcturus Mesarthim deepens. Paige teams up with Arcturus to explore the French underworld and push her fledgling rebellion forward, while coming to terms with her own ordeal.
Reception and impact
The Guardian praised the book for its unique and complex setting. It became a Sunday Times Bestseller. Grazia named it one of the most anticipated books of 2021, highlighting Shannon as a bold new voice in feminist fantasy. The American Library Association’s Donna Seaman called it a gripping tale about trust, love, courage, sacrifice, equality, and justice. Publishers Weekly said it blends political thriller, dystopian epic, and paranormal adventure. Kirkus Reviews described it as a tantalizing setup for the next installment with the potential to be a knockout.
This page was last edited on 2 February 2026, at 20:36 (CET).