Alistair Collins never wanted to follow in the footsteps of his father, something that greatly disappointed the elder Major Collins, a patriotic officer in the British Fusiliers. A talented musician like his mother, Alistair looked forward to a successful career in music. But when tragedy struck at home, grief mixed with guilt and despair, changed the course of the musician's life and propelled him into the Army and to a war that gave rise to a man he no longer knew. His struggle to regain his career and sanity, in the aftermath of an unfortunate accident in the Gulf war, and his constant battle with post traumatic stress disorder, added to the agony of his life. Forced to live in silence, life had no meaning until his accidental encounter with the young talented musician Yvee Benton.
Poignant and powerful, The Mute's Masquerade is an amazing insight into the results of PTSD and the unique effect of music and what it means to find tranquility in the midst of despair, contentment through a game of charade and an everlasting hunger for life's unending song.
REVIEWS
Anne Coltman has crafted a well-written novel that touches your heart. Alistair Collins, the protagonist, is struggling with PTSD after serving in the Gulf War. A war-related accident has rendered him mute, and it is only his love of music and his desire to help other musicians that gives him the strength to go on. A riveting tale of loss, unrequited love, and musical passion that is thought-provoking and heart-wrenching. - Cindi B., Author
Love this book, it blew me away, so relevant in today's world. I was moved by the life and struggle of this war veteran with his demons, his music and great generosity of heart. - Rich Cameron
Another of Anne Coltman's captivating novels. Set in the rural town of Rusper in West Sussex , England, a place well known to Anne who spent much time in the neighboring town of Ifield. Her vivid recollection of the places in the novel (streets, churches, etc.) stemmed from her love of the English countryside and its way of life. This, coupled with Anne's love of classical music developed from her childhood days, has made this novel evolve into a very compelling read.. It was therefore befitting for Alistair Collins to be part of this. - Martin Gibbs
An absorbing and enchanting story that is at once a love story but also a psychological portrait of a veteran of war, Abe, at odds with himself. He is a man without a voice, transformed mute due to a tragic war injury. He is also a gifted musician and pianist whose inner depths are plumbed elegantly by the author in this tale of unrequited love. The plot reminded me somewhat of The Phantom of the Opera but with a different storyline and setting. I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys deep character study, surprise twists and turns, and can identify with the pain and sorrow true love can bring. - Dan Mariani,, Author