Mr. Masque

Niles P Engerman presents a volume of fiction that traverses the boundaries between the mundane and the macabre. The text examines subjects such as marital decay, familial betrayal, existential isolation, and the bureaucratic nature of death. Engerman structures these narratives to challenge the reader’s perception of reality through distinct, self-contained stories rather than a continuous plot. One narrative focuses on a man whose troubled marriage drives him to form a dangerous bond with a paranormal painting, leading to unspeakable acts. Another story follows a young boy whose visit to his grandmother in a nursing home unravels into a revelation about the true nature of their meetings. A third tale tracks an amnesiac alien awakening in a deep space escape pod, searching for answers regarding his abandoned family and destination. The final segment introduces Death as a messenger tasked with finding clients in dubious locations, culminating in a climax that questions his identity and relationship to the mysterious subjects inhabiting the world of Mr. Masque. This collection suits readers who appreciate short-form horror and gothic fiction that blends supernatural elements with psychological tension. It appeals to those interested in stories where ordinary settings shift into terrifying unknowns. The book may not satisfy readers seeking long-form epics or historical fantasy, as it relies on concise, impactful storytelling within a modern framework.