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Hell's Belles #4
Mastermind
Not yet published
Expected 16 Feb 27Win a free print copy of this book!
10 days and 23:38:05
50 copies available
U.S. only
New York Times bestselling author Sarah MacLean returns with the fiery conclusion to her blazingly sexy Hell’s Belles series.
The world knows her as the Duchess of Trevescan, the brightest star in London, the clever, beautiful wife of a hermit husband. What they do not know is that Duchess is no Duchess at all—she’s a fraud, having faked her marriage and stolen the title and the funds of the Trevescan name, all in service to a larger cause…with her "husband" none the wiser.
Except Branok Penrose, Duke of Trevescan, knows more about Duchess's secrets than anyone else. He has been watching her for years, waiting for the right moment to return and collect on her unpaid debts…and his undeniable desires. When Duchess empties his accounts, Bran knows if he doesn’t claim her now, she’ll be gone forever.
The last thing Duchess needs is a man upending her well-laid plans, especially this one, a final adventure that will vanquish her past and lay the groundwork for her future. But Bran is unlike any duke she’s ever met—too clever, throws a wicked punch, and kisses like a proper scoundrel. A bit of his delicious chaos might be the perfect farewell, but once she's tasted it—and his tempting promises—how will she ever give it up?
The world knows her as the Duchess of Trevescan, the brightest star in London, the clever, beautiful wife of a hermit husband. What they do not know is that Duchess is no Duchess at all—she’s a fraud, having faked her marriage and stolen the title and the funds of the Trevescan name, all in service to a larger cause…with her "husband" none the wiser.
Except Branok Penrose, Duke of Trevescan, knows more about Duchess's secrets than anyone else. He has been watching her for years, waiting for the right moment to return and collect on her unpaid debts…and his undeniable desires. When Duchess empties his accounts, Bran knows if he doesn’t claim her now, she’ll be gone forever.
The last thing Duchess needs is a man upending her well-laid plans, especially this one, a final adventure that will vanquish her past and lay the groundwork for her future. But Bran is unlike any duke she’s ever met—too clever, throws a wicked punch, and kisses like a proper scoundrel. A bit of his delicious chaos might be the perfect farewell, but once she's tasted it—and his tempting promises—how will she ever give it up?
400 pages, Paperback
Expected publication February 16, 2027
About the author
Sarah MacLean
58 books16.1k followersNew York Times, Washington Post & USA Today bestseller Sarah MacLean is the author of historical romance novels. Translated into more than twenty-five languages, the books that make up “The MacLeaniverse” are beloved by readers worldwide.
In addition to her novels, Sarah is a leading advocate for the romance genre, speaking widely on its place as a feminist text and a cultural bellwether. A columnist for the New York Times, the Washington Post and Bustle, she is the co-host of the weekly romance podcast, Fated Mates. A Rhode Island native, Sarah now lives in New York City.
In addition to her novels, Sarah is a leading advocate for the romance genre, speaking widely on its place as a feminist text and a cultural bellwether. A columnist for the New York Times, the Washington Post and Bustle, she is the co-host of the weekly romance podcast, Fated Mates. A Rhode Island native, Sarah now lives in New York City.
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Want to Read
February 25, 2024“I am told you are the Duchess of Trevescan,” he said, the words low and smooth. Like the finest scotch whisky.
She raised a brow, ignoring the ice in his steely gaze. “I am.”
“Fascinating,” he replied. “As I am the Duke of Trevescan, one would think we would have met.”
She raised a brow, ignoring the ice in his steely gaze. “I am.”
“Fascinating,” he replied. “As I am the Duke of Trevescan, one would think we would have met.”
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
The duke finding out his fake duchess is a women’s rights warrior meting out justice, through explosions, blackmail, and poisonings: how do I make this marriage a reality
Hell's Belles the only friend group where an explosion in the distance makes one friend go: yippee
AND THEY LIVED *sobbing* AND THEY LIVED
The final Hell’s Belles novel blazes onto the page with Duchess’ ultimate play for revenge and her eremitic husband, who arrives after eight years to claim his wayward bride. On the run from dastardly villains, they'll encounter highwaymen, various only one bed locales, and, most of all, a future neither of them ever planned for. Mastermind is an explosive finale, both in the literal and figurative sense. The path to justice is never a straight line, and Maclean takes readers through Duchess’s past and the continued call to action she places above all else. Mastermind crafts a complex, steadfast heroine in the Duchess and the man who sees every part of her and only wants to be her shield. A reclusive Duke who lives on an isolated island is the surface of our hero, Branok. I mean, this man took one look at what his fake wife was doing and went: I must marry her for real. Oh, and he also named a beetle after her? That might just be peak romance. Sarah Maclean is always going to create historical romance magic when she puts her attention to the page. Maclean posits that love can be enough, can be the driving force for justice and truth. Life doesn't have to be set aside in the pursuit of that calling. This was the perfect send-off for our chaotic Hell’s Belles, saying goodbye while inspiring a new generation to pick up the torch and burn it all down. Sarah Maclean is the true mastermind, orchestrating another revolutionary historical romance to make us feral and remind us what we live for, what we love for.
Bookstagram | Blog
Hell's Belles the only friend group where an explosion in the distance makes one friend go: yippee
AND THEY LIVED *sobbing* AND THEY LIVED
The final Hell’s Belles novel blazes onto the page with Duchess’ ultimate play for revenge and her eremitic husband, who arrives after eight years to claim his wayward bride. On the run from dastardly villains, they'll encounter highwaymen, various only one bed locales, and, most of all, a future neither of them ever planned for. Mastermind is an explosive finale, both in the literal and figurative sense. The path to justice is never a straight line, and Maclean takes readers through Duchess’s past and the continued call to action she places above all else. Mastermind crafts a complex, steadfast heroine in the Duchess and the man who sees every part of her and only wants to be her shield. A reclusive Duke who lives on an isolated island is the surface of our hero, Branok. I mean, this man took one look at what his fake wife was doing and went: I must marry her for real. Oh, and he also named a beetle after her? That might just be peak romance. Sarah Maclean is always going to create historical romance magic when she puts her attention to the page. Maclean posits that love can be enough, can be the driving force for justice and truth. Life doesn't have to be set aside in the pursuit of that calling. This was the perfect send-off for our chaotic Hell’s Belles, saying goodbye while inspiring a new generation to pick up the torch and burn it all down. Sarah Maclean is the true mastermind, orchestrating another revolutionary historical romance to make us feral and remind us what we live for, what we love for.
Bookstagram | Blog
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
"I'm not your wife," she whispered, knowing what he would reply.
"Not yet."
Mastermind cannot stand on its own--go back and read the other three books first; you won't regret it!
The story till now has been that the Duke of Trevescan is a wealthy, errant husband who has left his lady wife to her own devices in anticipation of their inevitable, undeserved second chance romance. A fairly loathsome and tired setup a la The Day of the Duchess or Daring and the Duke I thought, until the final pages of Knockout revealed:
"You are the Duchess of Trevescan."
"I am."
"Fascinating," he replied. "As I am the Duke of Trevescan, one would think we would have met."
WHO IS SHE. WHO IS HE. WHY IS IT SO WARM IN HERE.
I am happy to report that you will receive the answers to all of these questions in Mastermind, a near-perfect end to the Hell's Belles series. While Detective Inspector Thomas Peck has bewitched me body and soul, I adore the Duke of Trevescan.
She opened her mouth, no doubt to argue, but he raised his hand to stop her. "Let me finish. I don't care if the wide world comes for you. The wide world will have to come through me first."
There's so little I can say without revealing too much. I will let this slip--there's a delightful new earl in the mix who may or may not be angelically handsome with a devilish wit and penchant for highwayman hijinks.
She closed her eyes. Whispered to the wind, "I don't want it to be over."
"Which part?"
[REDACTED] opened her eyes. "Any of it."
Romance tropes: woman in peril, just one bed, on the road, nurse back to health, he falls first, marriage of convenience, kidnapped, self-made person, orphan
Content warning: Multiple rape attempts, sexual assault, kidnapping, domestic assault, child abuse
Please note that the quotes in this review are from an uncorrected proof and may not reflect the final version. Thank you Avon and NetGalley for an ARC!
---
One time at work, I was walking toward my desk and I saw all these people clustered around a woman holding a baby wearing a lil parka and I sighed because I was v. uninterested but then I got closer and realized it was not a baby but actually a small Saint Bernard puppy and then I was V. INTERESTED and that is the difference between how I felt about the Duchess of Trevescan's situation in Bombshell (book 1) vs how I felt about the Duchess after reading the last page of Knockout (book 3)
"Not yet."
Mastermind cannot stand on its own--go back and read the other three books first; you won't regret it!
The story till now has been that the Duke of Trevescan is a wealthy, errant husband who has left his lady wife to her own devices in anticipation of their inevitable, undeserved second chance romance. A fairly loathsome and tired setup a la The Day of the Duchess or Daring and the Duke I thought, until the final pages of Knockout revealed:
"You are the Duchess of Trevescan."
"I am."
"Fascinating," he replied. "As I am the Duke of Trevescan, one would think we would have met."
WHO IS SHE. WHO IS HE. WHY IS IT SO WARM IN HERE.
I am happy to report that you will receive the answers to all of these questions in Mastermind, a near-perfect end to the Hell's Belles series. While Detective Inspector Thomas Peck has bewitched me body and soul, I adore the Duke of Trevescan.
She opened her mouth, no doubt to argue, but he raised his hand to stop her. "Let me finish. I don't care if the wide world comes for you. The wide world will have to come through me first."
There's so little I can say without revealing too much. I will let this slip--there's a delightful new earl in the mix who may or may not be angelically handsome with a devilish wit and penchant for highwayman hijinks.
She closed her eyes. Whispered to the wind, "I don't want it to be over."
"Which part?"
[REDACTED] opened her eyes. "Any of it."
Romance tropes: woman in peril, just one bed, on the road, nurse back to health, he falls first, marriage of convenience, kidnapped, self-made person, orphan
Content warning: Multiple rape attempts, sexual assault, kidnapping, domestic assault, child abuse
Please note that the quotes in this review are from an uncorrected proof and may not reflect the final version. Thank you Avon and NetGalley for an ARC!
---
One time at work, I was walking toward my desk and I saw all these people clustered around a woman holding a baby wearing a lil parka and I sighed because I was v. uninterested but then I got closer and realized it was not a baby but actually a small Saint Bernard puppy and then I was V. INTERESTED and that is the difference between how I felt about the Duchess of Trevescan's situation in Bombshell (book 1) vs how I felt about the Duchess after reading the last page of Knockout (book 3)
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
sarah maclean writes the historical romances i want to read. period. as a reader, i don't think there is a histrom author that better suits my personal tastes in moments, in style, in ROMANCE. tightly focused. extremely sensual.
I won't say more until publication date, but i literally cannot wait to listen to the mary jane wells say some of these lines. whooooo boy!
thank you to the publisher for the eARC.
I won't say more until publication date, but i literally cannot wait to listen to the mary jane wells say some of these lines. whooooo boy!
thank you to the publisher for the eARC.
January 29, 2024
5/5 stars
I have waited patiently for this book for three years and it was oh so worth the wait.
I have waited patiently for this book for three years and it was oh so worth the wait.
upcoming-greek
August 26, 2023Just finished Knockout, so
1)2024 isn't coming fast enough and
2)SARAAAAAAAAAH?????!!!!!!!
3) It was one of my theories that thing, but I thought I was crazy for even thinking about it 🤣🤣
Update 31/01/24: And the title is Mastermind? Yay! It's totally Duchess (we also need her first name though)
Pub date: 2025?! 😭😭
1)2024 isn't coming fast enough and
2)SARAAAAAAAAAH?????!!!!!!!
3) It was one of my theories that thing, but I thought I was crazy for even thinking about it 🤣🤣
Update 31/01/24: And the title is Mastermind? Yay! It's totally Duchess (we also need her first name though)
Pub date: 2025?! 😭😭
March 2, 2025
Serious question.... Who is rating 1 star to a book that isn't out yet? If you had the arc, then where is the review?
Want to Read
October 17, 2026
*Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me an E-Arc in exchange for an honest review!*
I've been meaning to start the Hell's Belles series ever since Bombshell (book 1) was about to come out, and now I've received an arc!!!!!
Though now I'm torn between taking this as a sign to finally read the series in chronological order or reading this one first and then going back to the previous books.
I've been meaning to start the Hell's Belles series ever since Bombshell (book 1) was about to come out, and now I've received an arc!!!!!
Though now I'm torn between taking this as a sign to finally read the series in chronological order or reading this one first and then going back to the previous books.
October 21, 2026
Absolutely worth the wait.
Full review to come.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
Full review to come.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
Want to Read
February 15, 2024Did I know that Book 4 of this series (Duchess's book!!!) was called Mastermind? I don't think so!
October 19, 2026
Sarah. Oh my goodness, you really did your big one with this. I’m not being dramatic when I say Mastermind is THE PERFECT conclusion to Hell’s Belles.
Duchess’ story will rip out your heart while at the same time giving you something to root for. Bran is a quintessential MacLean Hero and caretaker extraordinaire. I’m obsessed. The whole book felt improbably delightful and magical and full of hope, teaching us that it’s okay to want more and to allow our people to stand by our side while we do the hard things. I loved every second of this.
I have rarely cried like this in a book, something about Duchess’ inner turmoil was so raw that at times I was overcome. What a beautiful testament to the power and strength of women determined to leave this world better than they found it. Thank you Sarah for your stories, and a huge thank you to Avon and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review.
Duchess’ story will rip out your heart while at the same time giving you something to root for. Bran is a quintessential MacLean Hero and caretaker extraordinaire. I’m obsessed. The whole book felt improbably delightful and magical and full of hope, teaching us that it’s okay to want more and to allow our people to stand by our side while we do the hard things. I loved every second of this.
I have rarely cried like this in a book, something about Duchess’ inner turmoil was so raw that at times I was overcome. What a beautiful testament to the power and strength of women determined to leave this world better than they found it. Thank you Sarah for your stories, and a huge thank you to Avon and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Painfully Middling. Doesn't fulfill its potential. I'm so irritated actually. There are a bazillion problems I have with this book. Its inconsistent in its application of morals. It withholds the motivations of its mmc too long and too much and that just deprived me as a reader to not connect with him well enough. The romance was a bit too sugary without enough friction, and I just can't stand that in books.
The positive elements though, the Duchess subplot and even that was a bit butchered at the end, but it's alright. And the girls ofc are another great addition.
Trigger Warnings for SA in prologue
The positive elements though, the Duchess subplot and even that was a bit butchered at the end, but it's alright. And the girls ofc are another great addition.
Trigger Warnings for SA in prologue
Want to Read
February 13, 2024Oh my gosh I can't wait!! Just finished reading Knockout and then listening to Knockout. So good!! It was slow to start for me, didn't grab me right away as the other two did, but then it flew, and then I got to the last page of the epilogue... 2025!!!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Lord, let me find a time machine so I can go to London in the 1840s to join the Hell’s Belles. A ragtag, intelligent, badass crew of women who are bringing down corrupt aristocrats one shitty man at a time? What an absolutely perfect premise, and Mastermind is a story about the Queen of the Hell’s Belles, Charlotte, the self-appointed Duchess of Trevescan. Charlotte fakes her marriage certificate to the Duke of Trevescan, because he’s a hermit who never sets foot in London and will NEVER FIND OUT. Charlotte spends years using her seat in society to further her agenda to take down high powered abusers. The only problem is that the Duke of Trevescan has known all along, and has been keeping a close eye on his fake, yet alluring wife. And it’s time he claims her fully.
I loved the overall revenge plot of this book. I love the plot of the series. The first 10% had my heart in my throat and set up the vigilante story perfectly. I thought both Charlotte and Bran were such compelling, distinct characters. I loved watching Bran’s backstory unfold throughout the story. Ugh. Such absolute baddies. And they were smoking hot. The spice in this story was chef’s kiss. I loved all the side characters and selfishly wish we got more time with each and every one. My only complaint was that the back and forth of “marry me” “I can’t marry you” went on for a too many loops, and it made the story feel a bit long at points
But overall this was a great story, and I can’t wait to go back and read the entire series. In full disclosure, I had not read books 1-3, and while I didn’t suffer any from the main plot of the story by not having read them, I am sure I would have enjoyed my time with the side characters more if I had. Historical romance forever!
I loved the overall revenge plot of this book. I love the plot of the series. The first 10% had my heart in my throat and set up the vigilante story perfectly. I thought both Charlotte and Bran were such compelling, distinct characters. I loved watching Bran’s backstory unfold throughout the story. Ugh. Such absolute baddies. And they were smoking hot. The spice in this story was chef’s kiss. I loved all the side characters and selfishly wish we got more time with each and every one. My only complaint was that the back and forth of “marry me” “I can’t marry you” went on for a too many loops, and it made the story feel a bit long at points
But overall this was a great story, and I can’t wait to go back and read the entire series. In full disclosure, I had not read books 1-3, and while I didn’t suffer any from the main plot of the story by not having read them, I am sure I would have enjoyed my time with the side characters more if I had. Historical romance forever!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Sarah MacLean, you goddess among us, what a book, what an end to the Hell's Belles. I never wanted it to end but also was DYING for Duchess to get the HEA she so deserved. WHAT A BOOK.
When the Duke of Trevescan shows up in the last book at the end and MacLean left us with a OMG WHAT, I was locked in. And this story does not disappoint. The Duke isn't here to expose the woman who's been pretending to be his wife for 8 years and has been using all his ducal funds, he's here to for real marry her. Sight unseen (but the sight sure did help when they met). And I was a goner. Branok is also a goner. That man IS YEARNING FROM THE JUMP. He is all in on the Duchess and she is like, but I actually just do a secret empire exposing terrible men and I do it alone while I take care of everyone around me, and he's like but what if you weren't alone. ALSO the heroine is an actual adult who knows the world? 36 years old and not a new little debutante? YES PLEASE. Anyway, I have never been happier. Also I am READY for the next series. The setup was delicious.
Thank you to Avon and NetGalley for the advance review copy. Mastermind comes out March 2, 2027.
When the Duke of Trevescan shows up in the last book at the end and MacLean left us with a OMG WHAT, I was locked in. And this story does not disappoint. The Duke isn't here to expose the woman who's been pretending to be his wife for 8 years and has been using all his ducal funds, he's here to for real marry her. Sight unseen (but the sight sure did help when they met). And I was a goner. Branok is also a goner. That man IS YEARNING FROM THE JUMP. He is all in on the Duchess and she is like, but I actually just do a secret empire exposing terrible men and I do it alone while I take care of everyone around me, and he's like but what if you weren't alone. ALSO the heroine is an actual adult who knows the world? 36 years old and not a new little debutante? YES PLEASE. Anyway, I have never been happier. Also I am READY for the next series. The setup was delicious.
Thank you to Avon and NetGalley for the advance review copy. Mastermind comes out March 2, 2027.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This story starts off with a daring escape! Our heroine fights off the advances of a cruel Earl and disappears into the river. This is the fourth and final book in the Hell’s Belles series, and my favorite. I think it helps to have read the earlier books, but this stands well on its own. I loved the adventure and romance.
Bran has been studying the flora and fauna on his private estate, Penrose Isle, when he hears that a woman has been staying at his London home, saying she is the Duchess of Trevescan. Instead of being enraged, he’s fascinated and can’t get her out of his mind. He discovers a new species of beetle, and gives it a special name (that I loved). When she empties his London accounts, he’s afraid she’s getting ready to disappear, and he returns to London immediately.
The Duchess is the leader of the Hell’s Belles, a group of lady vigilantes who carry knives and fight lords and crime lords who misuse their power. When the Belles’ latest plan falls apart, Bran comes to her rescue, and they board a coach for Penrose. But she struggles to believe he would want her for a wife. It's hard for her to trust men.
This is a fast-paced adventure, with fierce women, a kidnapping, a highwayman, and a steamy romance. It’s the perfect ending to the series. Thank you to the author, Avon and Harper Voyage, and NetGalley for the ARC. My full review will be at SpoonerReads.com on its release date, February 16.
Bran has been studying the flora and fauna on his private estate, Penrose Isle, when he hears that a woman has been staying at his London home, saying she is the Duchess of Trevescan. Instead of being enraged, he’s fascinated and can’t get her out of his mind. He discovers a new species of beetle, and gives it a special name (that I loved). When she empties his London accounts, he’s afraid she’s getting ready to disappear, and he returns to London immediately.
The Duchess is the leader of the Hell’s Belles, a group of lady vigilantes who carry knives and fight lords and crime lords who misuse their power. When the Belles’ latest plan falls apart, Bran comes to her rescue, and they board a coach for Penrose. But she struggles to believe he would want her for a wife. It's hard for her to trust men.
This is a fast-paced adventure, with fierce women, a kidnapping, a highwayman, and a steamy romance. It’s the perfect ending to the series. Thank you to the author, Avon and Harper Voyage, and NetGalley for the ARC. My full review will be at SpoonerReads.com on its release date, February 16.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
HEADLINE: 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐜𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐧’𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐩𝐢𝐞𝐜𝐞 (PUB 02.16)
𝘋𝘶𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘓𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘴.
You know I have zero chill, so as soon as I got the arc I cast my TBR aside. I inhaled this absolutely perfect 5-star historical romance in less than a day. Once I hit ‘The End’ I went right back to the beginning.
It was everything I was desperately craving in an historical romance.
Swoony and steamy
Adventure and angst
A positively delicious ‘twist’ that I didn’t see coming
Duchess is a strong, resilient, unwavering heroine
Trevescan falls first and hard
Heartstopping declarations of love
Propulsive plot with intentional writing
All the emotions- laughter to tears
Pre-order or place a hold. And when you’re waiting I recommend reading the first 3 in the Hell’s Belles series. I pulled them off my shelf for a quick revisit.
𝘋𝘶𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘓𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘴.
You know I have zero chill, so as soon as I got the arc I cast my TBR aside. I inhaled this absolutely perfect 5-star historical romance in less than a day. Once I hit ‘The End’ I went right back to the beginning.
It was everything I was desperately craving in an historical romance.
Swoony and steamy
Adventure and angst
A positively delicious ‘twist’ that I didn’t see coming
Duchess is a strong, resilient, unwavering heroine
Trevescan falls first and hard
Heartstopping declarations of love
Propulsive plot with intentional writing
All the emotions- laughter to tears
Pre-order or place a hold. And when you’re waiting I recommend reading the first 3 in the Hell’s Belles series. I pulled them off my shelf for a quick revisit.
Want to Read
June 12, 2022*possibly a dumb question* - Is this going to be Catherine's book (the one who was super young and married to Coleford). I hope she gets a happy ending!
Want to Read
November 13, 2023The epilogue of “Knockout” has me SQUEALING to get my hands on this book. I’m so excited for Duchess to get her due!!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Netgalley and Avon | Harper Voyager for the eARC!
To say I have been eagerly anticipating this release is a vast understatement, so imagine how excited I was to get approved for the ARC (Spoiler: it was a lot). I’m happy to say the wait for Duchess’s story is over and it was so good.
The backstory to Duchess made so much sense and I liked knowing why she was driven to lead the Belles. Bran, her kinda-sorta husband, was a good match for her. He has his own reasons for the life he leads and I enjoyed watching his story be revealed.
I do have a few minor quibbles. One was that some aspects of the plot were kind of hand waved away. Like how Duchess ended up where she was and what exactly happened to Bran’s dad/ grandfather. Also, there was not enough of the rest of the Belle’s. I liked their interactions in all the other books and they felt rather limited in Mastermind. Still, even with all of that, I did enjoy reading about Duchess and Bran.
Overall, this was a good ending to the series. I really loved watching all of these characters find their happy endings. Fingers crossed there will be more HR books from MacLean in the future (I know it’s a market that isn’t doing so hot which is so sad because I love historical romances so much). I highly recommend reading this one for anyone who likes the author, the series or just HRs in general.
To say I have been eagerly anticipating this release is a vast understatement, so imagine how excited I was to get approved for the ARC (Spoiler: it was a lot). I’m happy to say the wait for Duchess’s story is over and it was so good.
The backstory to Duchess made so much sense and I liked knowing why she was driven to lead the Belles. Bran, her kinda-sorta husband, was a good match for her. He has his own reasons for the life he leads and I enjoyed watching his story be revealed.
I do have a few minor quibbles. One was that some aspects of the plot were kind of hand waved away. Like how Duchess ended up where she was and what exactly happened to Bran’s dad/ grandfather. Also, there was not enough of the rest of the Belle’s. I liked their interactions in all the other books and they felt rather limited in Mastermind. Still, even with all of that, I did enjoy reading about Duchess and Bran.
Overall, this was a good ending to the series. I really loved watching all of these characters find their happy endings. Fingers crossed there will be more HR books from MacLean in the future (I know it’s a market that isn’t doing so hot which is so sad because I love historical romances so much). I highly recommend reading this one for anyone who likes the author, the series or just HRs in general.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
This book was the PERFECT conclusion to the Hell's Belles series. It was everything I wanted and more. Duchess's backstory is both beautiful and heartbreaking. Branok is absolutely perfect for her in every way. He's the same kind of man who will fit in with all the other husbands of the Belles. There was so much depth to each character and the entire story was well-paced. The absolute best part was seeing how all the Belles rally together once again to save the day. I will definitely be buying this book as soon as it comes out! Thank you to Edelweiss for the ARC. These opinions are my own.
October 23, 2026
In the words of Sarah herself, historical romance is the absolute best. The sweeping emotions, the gorgeous landscapes, the thrilling chase, the quiet intimacy - this book has it all. We’ve been waiting a long time for Duchess’s story and the wait more than paid off! I highlighted so many passages that I can’t wait to share and will be preordering this immediately.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The best book Sarah MacLean has ever written. Well worth the two year wait. Full review to come.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Ahhhhh -- the final Hell's Belles book is here at last! And what a delight -- it's witty, emotional, romantic (of course; this is Sarah Maclean) and a tribute to women everywhere who want to make the world a better place, even if doing so involves, um, crimes.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Read
June 19, 2026Disappointing to see that the publication date for this much awaited chapter in the series has now been pushed out to 2027
Want to Read
January 5, 202431st Jan 2024
THERE'S A TITLE!!!!!
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6th Jan 2024
Ma'am, pls send someone to help me pick my jaw up from the floor. I just finished reading Knockout, and this is a CRY FOR HELP.
THERE'S A TITLE!!!!!
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6th Jan 2024
Ma'am, pls send someone to help me pick my jaw up from the floor. I just finished reading Knockout, and this is a CRY FOR HELP.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
guys. this book? a masterpiece. the duchess? a gold star heroine. the duke? the statue of david for book husbands everywhere. my emotions? out of check. the plot? exceeds all expectations. the romance? sexy beyond belief. the feeling i am feeling after finishing one of my favorite series of all time by one of the greatest romance novelists of all time? depression. crying both because it’s over and because it happened. 10000/10. no notes, all praise.
MAJOR UPDATE: just got approved for an ARC (NetGalley = 🙌🏻) so there goes my weekend !!!!!! fckkkkkkkkk yessssssssss
ms. Sarah must be burned at the stake (complimentary) because i see what you did there delaying one of my most anticipated releases another year!!! absolutely sacrilege
so brb will be comatose until then
MAJOR UPDATE: just got approved for an ARC (NetGalley = 🙌🏻) so there goes my weekend !!!!!! fckkkkkkkkk yessssssssss
ms. Sarah must be burned at the stake (complimentary) because i see what you did there delaying one of my most anticipated releases another year!!! absolutely sacrilege
so brb will be comatose until then
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Mastermind was 100% worth the wait. I think Sarah MacLean has succeeded in creating the perfect romance hero with Branok--not just perfect for the story, but perfect man full-stop. His banter with Duchess is so good, and their chemistry is off the charts. Duchess is a larger-than-life character who has been controlling the Belles' missions for justice and guiding the stories (and relationships) throughout the series while maintaining a complete mystery about who she really is and why her husband has been MIA this entire time. While she is obviously surprised to suddenly meet the Duke of Trevescan--her supposed husband--she expects to be able to maneuver him and keep him at arms'-length as she has everyone else. However, she has met her match in Branok, who has been secretly tracking the Belles' exploits for years and knowingly funding Duchess's work through the Trevescan accounts that she has been drawing down. He's been in love with his "wife" this whole time even though they've never met and despite (or rather because of) the fact that Duchess is a con-woman for a good cause. Bran has his work cut out for him convincing Duchess that, even if she doesn't need a man in her life, that he is a worthy partner who will support her life's works---and who sees her for the woman she is, not just the role she plays. It helps that Branok is a bad-ass in his own right, and is a perfect match for Duchess on all levels.
Getting to see Duchess's walls slowly come down and her learning to trust a little--and pause to re-evaluate this role that she has been playing and how she views her own self-worth--was very satisfying. Having characters who are a little older than the average historical romance pairs (both are in their mid-thirties) also made for a more interesting storyline and romance. They both have lived lives before meeting and carry those experiences with them, for better or worse. Relatedly, the exploration of Duchess's own traumatic past is well done and helps shed significant light on how she became the person she is. Duchess is so used to fending for herself throughout life, and she is frequently caught off guard by Bran's ability to see through the facade of the Queen of the Belles and to the heart of Charlotte (her real identity).
I don't usually highlight quotes as I'm reading, but I found myself flagging so many lines from Branok that were swoon-worthy:
- “Understand this, Duchess. Whatever happens between us, it won’t be because one of us owes the other. There are things in life that come without ties or bills of sale, and your pleasure is one of them.”
- “Do I seem the kind of woman who holidays?”
“You seem the kind of woman who deserves a rest from her breakneck journey through life.”
Honorable mention for favorite non-Bran quote:
- “Women love a tortured man.” “Even you?” She tossed him a coquettish look over her shoulder. “I prefer to torture them myself.”
I'd be remiss not to also mention the action-packed plot lines here as Duchess and Bran escape London after the Belles' plot to punish another evil lord turned into a trap for Duchess. Their road trip to Bran's castle off the coast of Cornwall is very eventful and showcases both Bran's and Duchess's strengths--while introducing a fun side character who I hope will get his own story some day (and many other wonderful supporting characters, as well). A few other MacLean characters from past series also get off-page cameos here, which is always fun.
Overall, this was a very satisfying conclusion to the series and I'm so glad Sarah MacLean took the time she needed to make this book everything that it became!
Thank you to Avon and Netgalley for providing an ARC for review!
Getting to see Duchess's walls slowly come down and her learning to trust a little--and pause to re-evaluate this role that she has been playing and how she views her own self-worth--was very satisfying. Having characters who are a little older than the average historical romance pairs (both are in their mid-thirties) also made for a more interesting storyline and romance. They both have lived lives before meeting and carry those experiences with them, for better or worse. Relatedly, the exploration of Duchess's own traumatic past is well done and helps shed significant light on how she became the person she is. Duchess is so used to fending for herself throughout life, and she is frequently caught off guard by Bran's ability to see through the facade of the Queen of the Belles and to the heart of Charlotte (her real identity).
I don't usually highlight quotes as I'm reading, but I found myself flagging so many lines from Branok that were swoon-worthy:
- “Understand this, Duchess. Whatever happens between us, it won’t be because one of us owes the other. There are things in life that come without ties or bills of sale, and your pleasure is one of them.”
- “Do I seem the kind of woman who holidays?”
“You seem the kind of woman who deserves a rest from her breakneck journey through life.”
Honorable mention for favorite non-Bran quote:
- “Women love a tortured man.” “Even you?” She tossed him a coquettish look over her shoulder. “I prefer to torture them myself.”
I'd be remiss not to also mention the action-packed plot lines here as Duchess and Bran escape London after the Belles' plot to punish another evil lord turned into a trap for Duchess. Their road trip to Bran's castle off the coast of Cornwall is very eventful and showcases both Bran's and Duchess's strengths--while introducing a fun side character who I hope will get his own story some day (and many other wonderful supporting characters, as well). A few other MacLean characters from past series also get off-page cameos here, which is always fun.
Overall, this was a very satisfying conclusion to the series and I'm so glad Sarah MacLean took the time she needed to make this book everything that it became!
Thank you to Avon and Netgalley for providing an ARC for review!
November 1, 2026
Thank you to Avon/Harper Publishing for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
5🌟
When the book is so good, you are already re-listening to the entire series because you just can't leave the world yet.
"Duchess had no intention of going quietly, and so she would go out with a fight. Hopefully one that ended in the ruination of a monster."
When I say I have been DYING for this book since the release of book 3, I mean it. The way book 3 ended had my jaw on the floor and I have been ravenous to get to her story. The only reason it took me even a few days to read is because of ACOSH release getting in my way.
I have googled this book every single week for THREE YEARS to see when it was coming out, and overall it was worth the wait.
I LOVE the Belles and I LOVE Duchess. Everything about their group, their dynamic, their men and their cause is utter perfection. I have eaten up this entire universe that Sarah MacLean has created. I am a serial-reader and I started at the beginning of her backlog years ago and marathoned straight through all of her books. While all of her series are stand-alone, I love that they are all interconnected and we get to see people from past books. Nearly all of MacLean's books have been phenomenal for me with the exception of one. She is a go-to recommendation to anyone who loves banter, feisty FMCs, men who support those feisty FMCs, and watching people try to right the wrongs in the world.
Duchess' story was not really at all what I imagined, but at the same time makes perfect sense. I loved Bran from the beginning and how much he supported her. He fell so hard for her before she even knew he existed and I love his devotion to her. He wants to keep her safe but not in a bubble. He wants to help her achieve her goals as the Queen of the Belles.
I wish there was more of the entire group throughout the book. I was so excited to get back to the Belles and I missed them in this one. It was mostly Duchess and Bran together away from the others. I missed that elite ride-or-die friendship between all of them and everything that comes with it. Of course, when they were on page, it made up for the parts where they weren't.
It felt a little bit miscommunication-y, but not to the point that I disliked it. Duchess and Bran both have a lot of secrets and their inner monologues about keeping those secrets was kind of pushing me to my limit of what I can handle about this particular trope.
I cannot WAIT for this to be available in audio. As it is, I read the entire book in Mary Jane Wells' voice. I know she is going to do justice to Duchess and I am feral to hear it.
The only reason I didn't want this book to come out is because I was afraid it was the end of this universe. Thankfully, Sarah has already given hints that there is at least one more character we will see more of. Which means I can still sleep at night knowing that we are not leaving these people behind yet. And hopefully we don't have to wait 3 years for the next!
Quote is from the eARC, final version may differ.
5🌟
When the book is so good, you are already re-listening to the entire series because you just can't leave the world yet.
"Duchess had no intention of going quietly, and so she would go out with a fight. Hopefully one that ended in the ruination of a monster."
When I say I have been DYING for this book since the release of book 3, I mean it. The way book 3 ended had my jaw on the floor and I have been ravenous to get to her story. The only reason it took me even a few days to read is because of ACOSH release getting in my way.
I have googled this book every single week for THREE YEARS to see when it was coming out, and overall it was worth the wait.
I LOVE the Belles and I LOVE Duchess. Everything about their group, their dynamic, their men and their cause is utter perfection. I have eaten up this entire universe that Sarah MacLean has created. I am a serial-reader and I started at the beginning of her backlog years ago and marathoned straight through all of her books. While all of her series are stand-alone, I love that they are all interconnected and we get to see people from past books. Nearly all of MacLean's books have been phenomenal for me with the exception of one. She is a go-to recommendation to anyone who loves banter, feisty FMCs, men who support those feisty FMCs, and watching people try to right the wrongs in the world.
Duchess' story was not really at all what I imagined, but at the same time makes perfect sense. I loved Bran from the beginning and how much he supported her. He fell so hard for her before she even knew he existed and I love his devotion to her. He wants to keep her safe but not in a bubble. He wants to help her achieve her goals as the Queen of the Belles.
I wish there was more of the entire group throughout the book. I was so excited to get back to the Belles and I missed them in this one. It was mostly Duchess and Bran together away from the others. I missed that elite ride-or-die friendship between all of them and everything that comes with it. Of course, when they were on page, it made up for the parts where they weren't.
It felt a little bit miscommunication-y, but not to the point that I disliked it. Duchess and Bran both have a lot of secrets and their inner monologues about keeping those secrets was kind of pushing me to my limit of what I can handle about this particular trope.
I cannot WAIT for this to be available in audio. As it is, I read the entire book in Mary Jane Wells' voice. I know she is going to do justice to Duchess and I am feral to hear it.
The only reason I didn't want this book to come out is because I was afraid it was the end of this universe. Thankfully, Sarah has already given hints that there is at least one more character we will see more of. Which means I can still sleep at night knowing that we are not leaving these people behind yet. And hopefully we don't have to wait 3 years for the next!
Quote is from the eARC, final version may differ.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I love Sarah MacLean’s first few series, but to be honest, the Hell’s Belles didn’t quite work for me. Until I read the epilogue of book #3 where Sarah does what she does best: drop a bombshell for the last book. So I was pretty excited when I got an ARC for Mastermind, Duchess’s story.
The book opens with some backstory on both Duchess and the Duke, and I’m not entirely sure we needed that. The prologue in particular seems to be there just to strengthen Duchess’s motivations a bit, because they seem lacking.
A lot of the book is centred around a road trip, with some fun moments. From pretty much the start it’s clear Branok is keeping a secret from Duchess. When it’s finally revealed, I absolutely loved half of it. The other half, however, was very disappointing.
For me, the book didn’t quite deliver. Branok has a severe case of instalust/instalove which I found difficult to understand. It wasn’t until the last part of the book that I started to believe in a romance between the two. But even then, I’m not sure I can picture an HEA for them since they’ve been living such different lives.
I also thought there were lots of little consistencies or things that didn’t make sense. Is Duchess really wearing white when she’s doing illegal deeds at night? Why did she think the Duke wouldn’t find out about her claiming the title? Why did she lose her coin after looking after it so well for so many years? Did they really not have a network in the West country because of her? No one else could deal with that?
Anyway, there were also some things I loved, especially how the Belles “stood on the shoulders of those who came before them.” So well done. I also liked that there was some set-up for a next series without it overpowering this book.
But overall, this book was a bit of a disappointment, so I’m going to give it 2.5 stars.
*** I received an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ***
The book opens with some backstory on both Duchess and the Duke, and I’m not entirely sure we needed that. The prologue in particular seems to be there just to strengthen Duchess’s motivations a bit, because they seem lacking.
A lot of the book is centred around a road trip, with some fun moments. From pretty much the start it’s clear Branok is keeping a secret from Duchess. When it’s finally revealed, I absolutely loved half of it. The other half, however, was very disappointing.
For me, the book didn’t quite deliver. Branok has a severe case of instalust/instalove which I found difficult to understand. It wasn’t until the last part of the book that I started to believe in a romance between the two. But even then, I’m not sure I can picture an HEA for them since they’ve been living such different lives.
I also thought there were lots of little consistencies or things that didn’t make sense. Is Duchess really wearing white when she’s doing illegal deeds at night? Why did she think the Duke wouldn’t find out about her claiming the title? Why did she lose her coin after looking after it so well for so many years? Did they really not have a network in the West country because of her? No one else could deal with that?
Anyway, there were also some things I loved, especially how the Belles “stood on the shoulders of those who came before them.” So well done. I also liked that there was some set-up for a next series without it overpowering this book.
But overall, this book was a bit of a disappointment, so I’m going to give it 2.5 stars.
*** I received an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ***
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