Love in Disguise

The Leighs #2

by M.A. Nichols

He wanted peace. She wanted quiet. Together they found trouble.

Rosanna Leigh must find a husband. For her sake, she wants a happy marriage and a quiet life, but her parents demand a gentleman of consequence. Preferably a nobleman. At the very least, a wealthy heir. Certainly not a dashing servant with a smile that makes Rosanna’s heart skip a beat.

And despite her better judgment, she finds herself drawn to him…

Malcolm Tate is a matrimonial prize, and many a matchmaking mama has tried to catch him for her daughter. Fleeing London, he seeks solitude in the countryside where he needn’t worry about their mercenary machinations. But when a gorgeous and intriguing young lady literally falls into his arms, Malcolm longs for a way to court her in peace.

When she mistakes him for a servant, Malcolm can’t help but take advantage of the opportunity. It’s just a bit of playacting. His name and money are only minor details, after all.

Aren’t they?

Genres: Regency, Romance, Historical Fiction, Historical Romance, Historical, Fiction

287 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 1, 2023

About the author

Born and raised in Anchorage, M.A. Nichols is a lifelong Alaskan, though she briefly ventured south to get a fancy bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University and a master’s degree from Utah State University—neither of which had anything to do with why she became an author, but they kept her alive while launching her publishing career.

As a child she despised reading, but thanks to her mother’s love and persistence, she saw the error of her ways and developed a deep and abiding obsession with books. Currently, she writes sweet historical romance and fantasy, but as a lover of many genres, she plans to explore more in the future.

Reviews

[Inés · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another clean historical romance for the Leigh's siblings, this once, the second sister. The premise is interesting: a rich gentleman, just arrived from London and tired of scheming ladies and their matchmaking mamas, pretends to be a groom when he meets the heroine, who happens to be the belle of the town (and who has a scheming mercenary mum of her own). However, the development, though entertaining, is not so compelling. Perhaps this is due to the fact that, once the ruse is discovered, she keeps finding new excuses to continue being angry (first, she can't trust him, then he's not good for her and won't help her become a better person, then he's not really apologising...). This leads to an abundance (excess?) of inner thoughts and, as a reader, it leaves me a bit frustrated, because in the end I don't quite get what her real problem is and I feel that it's only a way to make the story long enough. Also, both main characters seem to have two distinct personalities that do not blend together (he, cheeky and funny but, at the same time, proud and tired of society, she, feisty and very sociable but, at the same time, retiring, tired of vacuous conversation and in the middle of a personality crisis). Still, overall it was a pleasant read and I'll certainly check the third book in the series.
By the way, I understand that this author self-publishes her book, but she may benefit from a proof reader. For instance:
- "And this was her just dessert", the last word should be "desert"
- "with her dander up" and "He is in a snit" are Americanisms that seem out of place.

[Vonne · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Actually a 4.75-rating**

Sorry I am returning late with this review. Had emergencies with both of my tech devices ( phone & craptop/broken laptop ) so it has been harried and slightly disarming as I spent time researching "quick fixes" while I bidded time so I could find ( or purchase ) ways/means to permanently repair them. So, "hello" to a New/Old laptop and entering my smartphone wireless charging era. Yup, yup.

This book was a mindfield, but in a good way. I have thought about it's affect... effect?!... on me as much as I can, when possible. It did the thing I love - where Nichols trusts her fans/readers/audience to be a bit more...adult?...mature?...patient? Capable and willing to process a huge character change but not only for the heroine, for the Hero, as well.

We have seen character shifts... from Book #1 ( Hello, Simon, my man!) and even still in these double-digit gems carrying on the romantic couples and ever-changing, intriguing individuals from these intertwining families. This time, though, I cannot help but feel both Rosanna & Malcolm have solidified their selves so adamantly into their initial predicaments that when they come together...both are selfish, yet sympathetic ( yes, not empathetic, at this point ) to what IS happening, what COULD happen and eventually what WILL happen.

What I enjoyed the most is the actual journey, the dual journey as they had to part ways, in brief snippets of time. They meet fairly early but Malcolm is the "disguise" part of this story. He pretends to be lowborn, and working for...the new marriageable gentry - which is He/Him. He is exhausted from every towns' Mamas and their maidens vying for his hand in matrimony, no matter the theatrics they conspire to create. He wants to do it different. He wants to find, and have, love HIS way.

I pictured Malcolm to be akin to a Mr. Darcy-variant, in a regency multi-verse, where he might be a great combo of Darcy-Bingley (heavy on the Bingley). Malcolm does his subterfuge correctly, as not only does he have his servants helping...he also does a convenient spin of PR for the mysterious Anon-gentry he works for (which is himself...). The big bossman seems to "loan" fairly decent frippery to wear as a groomsman/stable/horse guy. Also gives him an appealing edge over other men as he tends to have the wherewithall to curb/reign-in horses or has the ability to gain devices-horses-pull at any time. Malcolm is Mr. Malcolm who taxis Rosanna around town, so conveniently- perfect to force her to baselessly need him without outright admitting she will eventually grow to desire to be around him.

From her sister Prudence's story, Rosanna is growing tired, as well. Even moreso exhausted from her scheming parents as they keep pushing her toward a richer, prospective son-in-law. Without Prudence as her everyday guide, she is lost. She is battling within... with her old self... also wanting adamantly to be Prudence-adjacent into someone she knows has been slowly drowned out into silence for ill-gotten gains. Her younger sisters are becoming less understanding and tired of her ...wasting time and energy. Get on with IT, already!! Then BE GONE!! The longer Rosanna hang-dogs around without marriage, the longer it takes for her two younger sister to find THEIR own husbands.

The winning moments of this story are that both protagonists never give up, never give in. Stubborn to their own detriment. Except...how can they build a bridge together when the foundations are structurally designed...ney, cultivated by lies or being...mistrusted. Neither was being their genuine, authentic self.

The maturity that flourishes out of both comes when lost in their dueling anger as an incriminating comprehension arises.

"How can I ask You to be honest, when I cannot be honest to myself?"

Like meeting yourself, looking at the mirrored you, but realizing the task of asking feels empty and pointless because You Ain't You...a deeper, spiritual self with no demons or qualms, no anger or desperation.

This is an excellent depiction of slow burn character growth. It makes me glad I waited to write this review because it allowed me to immerse over time in why I was a bit rattled by the...grievances toward Malcolm. Look ...I am a female reader who adores a better Hero...a grayer moral-ed one who defies reality. Maybe a dueling dichotomy of human personality ...like a cuddly grizzly (bear).

I was...uh, kinda aggressively disappointed in Rosanna because she didn't forgive immediately or even after 24- no, not even 72hrs, but twisted the screws quite expertly to Malcolm's inability to apologize....and apologize in the RIGHT way.

What does THAT even mean?, I nearly begged inside my fragile mindset. I have been trained by my own ego to give most book Heroes a benefit of doubt because 8-times out of 10...writers tend to not know how to write women. My romantic lean comes from weak, naive & timid heroines who get utter shit-treatment served to them where by the draw into the ending of the story, the Hero HAS to do a big grovel or he's burnt toast. I am talking Harlequin publishing and their like in the same era.

I also live in a shifting reality where I have been the underdog of my own story. I know what girls...or women like Rosanna become to exist. In Prudence's book, I side-eyed Roseanna, and might have second-guessed her ability to graciously love her older sister despite being born pretty & perfect. Prudence was ME...the solid & stable...yet quiet and timid ever-workhorse, who everyone leans on but becomes invisible in the next second.

Nichols wrote about Rosanna's inner struggles...in Prudence's book and even more in her own, here. Why did I not believe or trust? I was joining Malcolm, in his shoes, not quite assured that Rosanna was...not right but "justified" in her refusal to accept apologies so easily. Right along with Malcolm, I realized...eh, I'm biased about my book Heroes, but more than that...

It becomes akin to... right people, wrong time. Or even more of a " I cannot BE with you until my feet are firmly planted, my head on my shoulders properly and I know what I DO NOT WANT...before I can consider you as worthy of my heart. I deserve better!"

Nichols consistently builds a worthier bond between her couples because THEY know they matter-to themselves first and then to their soulmates. They are not cardboard cutouts of samesy people in HR stories. It feels like Nichols puts these characters through genuine real people growth, especially when they're unaware they had to grow...or regrow, in tandem.

Rosanna gradually learned she could never ask Malcolm to better himself without turning the mirror back on her own masks. Even better than two worthy people knowing their worth, but ones who are willing to never refuse to let go of one another too soon.

Man, oh, man...this book hits so hard beneath the surface of all its simplicity. If you've experienced life long enough, bumped into plenty of Rosanna's & Malcolm's - at different stages of life & growth- then you come to realize there's a maturity level here no writer has guts to dive into.

It makes their ending satisfyingly justified. We got right here where we meet, in the eventual middle...because we made the painful effort and put forth the hard work.

[Lazy Lisa · Rating 2 out of 5]

not very interesting

Did not like the heroine. She was vain and also not too bright. How could she think some who spoke well and obviously been educated was a groom. She assumed and then he kept the farce going for quite some time. He walked with her for maybe a half hour and when he met up with his friend he said she was to be his bride? I barely got through the first book but I thought I’d try the author again. Not going to do that again.

[Theresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm sure that most people who read Prudence's book did not like Roseanna. I think this book goes over the top to change your opinion. Roseanna could have been redeemed without the "how many lives has she touched" storyline.

Roseanna is out walking when she comes upon a man. He allows her to believe that he is a groom. He tells her his name is Malcolm. That part, at least, is true, but he doesn't tell her that he is Malcolm Tate, the rich man that is new to Greater Edgerton. He wants to spend more time with her, so he allows the farce to continue, and he rides along as she delivers baskets to the poor.

This part is fine for the redemption arc. Roseanna is trying to do better. She still puts herself down, but Malcolm tries to make her see herself as the others do. She doesn't have to be Prudence. Her own version of caring is good.


Roseanna starts to have feelings for a man that she can have no future with. So when Malcolm has his friends throw a masquerade so that he can throw one more "test " at Roseanna. Then his mask comes off, and all of his tests get thrown in his face. Roseanna won't even believe her. "Mr. Malcolm" is real.

Now Malcolm is on the run, trying to make up for his stupidity.

Not that he even understands that all of what he did was wrong. Honestly, I think this story over does the " apologize" because he asked his servants to lie. I mean, it's not that big of a deal. I guess I'm wrong about that.

I looked forward to seeing who else gets a book in the Leigh books, and Katherine is next. That makes me happy. The Leigh mother is horrid, and she's extra horrid to her. I want to see her happy.


I'm glad that Roseanna learned to love herself, I'm glad she made a new close friend, and I'm glad that Malcom is there to be on her team against her horrid parents.

[Maria Escarda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderfully written historical romance

This romance is heart-tugging with wonderfully crafted characters. Rosanna is a gentle-born lady who, though privileged, strives to better herself in terms of character and substance. She is courageous in the face of personal doubts and failings. She doesn’t hold back when she gives Malcolm Tate a set down despite his superior status in society. She works hard to attain a better version of herself and brings everyone with her. While her suitor, Malcolm Tate, with all his deception, faults and failings, does not fail to see the value and brilliance of the only lady who managed to capture his attention and heart, despite wanting to escape the marriage mart.

What is so remarkable about this novel (which is this reader’s first by this author) is that the author takes her sweet time in developing the characters; giving readers the interest enough to invest in the characters presented. Also, she takes time to lay the groundwork for genuine feelings between the lovers, without having to waste pages and pages of insignificant events. For example, the reveal to Mr. Tate’s identity came early on the story (halfway in fact), but it took the second half for him to convince his lady love to give him another chance. THAT is establishing a convincing love affair; not one that most romance stories would try to compressed in a mere Epilogue.

A job well done to the author! This reader is convinced to give her other novels a read.

[Danielle Warner · Rating 4 out of 5]

well written clean story

I always enjoy Ms. Nichol's writing.
She has a great talent with words. The dialog always flows naturally and is easy to read. Her illustrations are very well thought out.

I gave this 4 stars only because I felt there was no real plot other than the developing relationship with the H and h and their personality development.

I was a bit bored with the continued and repetative personality issues from each. I felt the main focus on the book was a self help book on how to accept responsibility for your mistakes and how too feel good about yourself. Don't get me wrong that is very important in life and Ms Niichols had great lines worth quoting about how to admit your faults and have self worth. But I don't read regency romances to better my personality, I read them for enjoyment and entertainment. To get lost for a time in another world So I like a book with more plots than the H and h forming a relationship and becoming better people. That is a great sub plot. But I would prefer the book to have a main plot that is either mystery, adventure or something like that, something that makes you want to turn to the next page.

So far this series seems to be the same for each story. Just H and h overcoming personality flaws. It's not gripping. I don't find any great desire too keep reading after awhile.

Hope for more plot depth in new books.

[Jerry Jares · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is about a year after the first novel of this series  (see below). Rosanna's father barely speaks to her, and her mother is disappointed in Rosanna's turndown of marriage in the last story. Rosanna must marry a man of consequence (money) to save their fortunes. Rosanna wants someone she can love, unlike her parents' marriage.

She soon meets a dashing man who introduces himself as a groomsman on the next estate (that has been rented). Although she knows she shouldn't, she is captivated by Mr. Malcolm's presence, humor, and friendship.

For his part, Malcolm Tate is sick of the harping mamas and daughters at every turn. He escapes London with his friends and rents a nearby estate. He wants a woman to want him, not his income. He holds a masquerade at his home when he realizes Rosanna is the right woman. Rosanna is upset when he unveils himself as the wealthy Mr. Tate and leaves the party. 

Although the reader knows Rosanna's backstory from the last book, this one is less engaging than the first. I enjoyed it, but it was not as gripping as the last one.

Leigh's
1. An Accidental Courtship (2023)
**   2. Love in Disguise (2023)
3. His Mystery Lady (2023)   
4. A Debt of Honor (2024)

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

The premise of this story is somewhat similar to The Valet’s Secret, by Josi Kilpack. In that book, a near accident ignites a friendship between a lonely woman and a man she thinks is a servant (also “named” Malcolm) who she later discovers is actually the heir to an earldom. She knows she loves him, but distrusts his apologies. Many of the circumstances are different, but in each story hearts are sifted and priorities examined on the way to a happily-ever-after. I think Nichols’ book stands out because of the self-examination and growth of her characters once the lie is exposed. I could identify with Rosanna’s determination to ‘be perfect,’ however impossible that is, and to distrust anyone who would draw her from that path. She also had a hard time recognizing the good parts of her character. This deep and extended struggle is unusual in a regency romance, and seems very contemporary. I appreciate that Nichols never takes the easy, superficial way out for her characters, but invites us along on a rough path of discovery. A great read, as always!

[The Flipped Page (Susan K) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet, period romance

Romance, sweet, period; series but stand alone read
Rosanna and Malcom’s story is a lovely fall after a mistaken identity. Lots of emotions, self-reflection and learning about each other. Two honest hearts are one of my favorite characters to read about. Lots of Damian supporting characters, and of course the townspeople. Perfect unraveling if this story.
Loved how they each had things to learn about themselves and how they and other kind characters helped them see each other for who they truly were, and make changes in how they treated others. Sweet romance topped it all off. Lovely read.

[Sierra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wondeful!

Rosanna is trying to be better and Malcolm is looking for something different than the emptiness of the social swirl of London. The Leigh parents are the Bennetts of Pride and Prejudice if they had a son. The mother is silly and embarrassing and the father is distant and disparaging. They only lack the love and confidence of the Bennett girls. Rosanna is the Jane of the family- beautiful with high expectations.
I loved the story, I loved the progress they made together. It is an excellent book!

[Batool AK · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded up.

My being less than 100% enthusiastic about this book is definitely a me thing. I simply struggle to get into books about the trials and tribulations of the beautiful and/or rich (sigh).

Having said that, I always enjoy M. A. Nichols' writing and she managed to make me dislike Rosanna way less than I did in book #1 (which is no easy feat, trust me).

Also, Katherine's story is coming out in September (yay!)

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rosanne has made up her mind never to be the spoiled vain young lady that hurt her sister Prudence in the past. Meanwhile her parents are still the same, pushing her to marry money, despite her earlier rejected of a proposal from an arrogant wealthy young man in the recent past. As she gets to really learn about herself through the eyes of others, she realizes she has her own special qualities and ultimately finds her hea

[Mlsco41 Robison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lies, love, forgiveness? I loved this book for many reasons, but most of all the reminders that we all have worth. We all have talents, although some are more obvious than others. The other is that truth should always be our guiding star. This love story is sweet and heart breaking. This is one book you shouldn’t miss!

[Kitt · Rating 3 out of 5]

More adventure needed?

I could not wait for the 2nd installment. Unfortunately the story lags with limited events to showcase the characters and their development with few stakes in jeopardy. The setting was so heavily based on the first book that the impact of qho Rosanna's character was lost.

[Max&Mariella · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the characters despite what other reviews said I would have wanted to be friends with them.

Flawed but trying to improve once their flaws were known to them.

Katherine didn't interest me at all, her character was similar to Mary in P&P and she didn't make me sympathetic to her plight was too shrew like.

[Melissa Knight · Rating 5 out of 5]

wonderful author!

I have read several books by this author and have enjoyed each and every one. They are well written, cozy stories that have lots of interesting historical details and unexpected plot twists. I hope Ms. Nichols keeps on writing because I’m steadily working my way through her inventory!

[Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

MA Nichols is always a must-buy from me, and this doesn't disappoint. I didn't like Rosanna in "An Accidental Courtship," but I did enjoy her character arc in that story. It was great to get a continuation of it, seeing how she's changing and trying to adapt to her new world view.

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kisses only. I liked that the MCs really got to know each other, were both flawed but worked on improving, and liked each other for the right reasons. I do feel bad for Kathryn (I know she gets the next book) both her older sisters kinda put her aside and her mom’s horrible.

[Katherine J. Dorman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very entertaining

This story has substance to it that is rare in a romance novel. As usual, I cried, I laughed out loud, and I felt triumph. Even though the stories all end the same, this story gave me a sense of "finish and completeness."

[Dorothy R. Till · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good book

I love the way both Malcolm and Roseanna changed and grew as the story moved along. I love M.A. Nichols books and this was a great one. I can't wait to see what is in store for the other girls and the lone son in this sea of females.

[Jane Clarkson · Rating 5 out of 5]

M.A. Nichols' books end too quickly

I loved this tale, with characters so much more than just two dimentional!

So much literary goodness in this lovely story!

I recommend this book with all my heart!

[Virginia Burns · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ball busting, raging inferiority complex. Miss Leigh

I seldom judge a book of this genre. It is a good, well written story or not. Most are just what they are. I could hardly wait to finish this one. Most people of this age have good manners. Miss Leigh had none.

[M.A. Nichols · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book got away from me. What started as a short novella spiraled out into a full-blown novel, and I love it!

[Kay McChesney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fine romance!

A quick read. No sex scenes. The heroine gets her man without losing her virtue and the man is an honorable and wealthy husband.

[Linda Divall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful

It was a delight to read this book. I was constantly wondering how in the world they were going to weather the storm. They are perfect for each other

[Crudelise · Rating 3 out of 5]

an ok book. i kinda liked it. i liked how flawed they both were.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let's just say I thought it was so good I wrote the author and told her so.

[Dolores]

I could not get into this book and decided to shelf it.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5! This was so good!!!!! I loved the story and characters! The author has such a knack with human character!!!

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5