Two journalists are caught in a supernatural fight for their lives while working on a story about a serial killer in the breathtaking urban fantasy novel, Headless (The Ghost and the Mask: Book 1) by Tristram Lowe. Akio Tsukino, a photographer at the Tokyo Newspaper, Dainichi Daily, wants to work with the front-page journalist, Masami Sato. Finagling an assignment with Masami, Akio takes the place of her usual cameraman. Together, Masami and Akio travel to Kofu to investigate a story about a serial killer who removes the heads of his victims. Unexpectedly, there is far more to the murders than either of them foresees. While questioning the friends and families of the victims, they receive details that are irrational and senseless. However, as they continue to investigate, they find themselves in life-threatening circumstances with a sinister and supernatural being. Can their worse suspicions be true? Will they find the murderer before they become the next victims?

Headless (The Ghost and the Mask: Book 1) by Tristram Lowe is a spine-tingling urban fantasy novel with a hint of Samurai lore lacing through the storyline. Set amongst the splendid backdrop of Japan, the plot moves at a fast pace. This novel is filled with action and suspense, creating a dramatic and breathtaking thriller. With an eerie supernatural ambiance and a bloodcurdling monster, the story held me spellbound from the first page until the last. The author creates a captivating plot with twists and turns woven through the story; the intensity and horror build to a terrifying and exciting finale. Due to some bloody and violent scenes, the story is more appropriate for readers over the age of twelve.

“Someone’s out there slicing heads off!” In Headless (The Ghost And The Mask, Book One) by Tristram Lowe, a serial killer is bringing terror on the streets, killing his victims by decapitating them and taking their heads away. Masami Sato is an intelligent and hardworking journalist, and people admire her work, albeit secretly. The gruesome crime spree is another assignment that deserves Masami's attention but this time an ambitious staff photographer, Akio Tsukino, wants in. Their partnership is shaky in the beginning, but the more they learn about the murders, the more they realize that they need to work together if they want a good story and photos out of the case - with their heads still attached.

As a supernatural fan, I find the concept and story premise of Headless intriguing. The fast-paced plot is well-structured and the characterization is solid; Masami Sato is an easy protagonist to cheer for especially when she has to deal with ridiculous misogynistic treatment in a male-dominated profession. The way she obtains information and gets into the places she needs for her story is admirable. It was hard to empathize and connect with Akio at first as he kept messing up certain moments, especially when he tried to establish a good working relationship with Masami but ended up annoying her. That said, he shows his worth when his colleague needs his help. The narrative is direct, engaging, and vibrant with details as the story progresses from mysterious deaths to fearful, life-threatening situations that bring out the heroism in ordinary people. Overall, this is a great start for Tristram Lowe's The Ghost And The Mask series.