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Shadows #2
Masque of Deceptions
Had it not been for the scent bottles, it is unlikely that Daniel Shelbourne, Viscount Reculver, and Anna Hawthorne of Hawthorne’s Porcelain would ever have met.
Daniel’s late father left him an impoverished estate – which he had expected – and unexplained debts, which he hadn’t. Anna inherited a thriving business, along with the knowledge and passion required to run it.
Daniel needs money quickly if his family is to avoid ruin.
Anna wants to create a tribute to her father’s vision and skill.
He is desperate; she, astute and determined.
So when Anna hears whispers that Lord Reculver is discreetly selling some of his possessions, she remembers the large collection of scent bottles purchased from Hawthorne’s over the years … all of them designed by her father.
They are exactly what she needs.
Moreover, selling them to her will give his lordship some of what he needs.
All she has to do, therefore, is make him a reasonable offer.
Simple. Or is it?
Daniel’s late father left him an impoverished estate – which he had expected – and unexplained debts, which he hadn’t. Anna inherited a thriving business, along with the knowledge and passion required to run it.
Daniel needs money quickly if his family is to avoid ruin.
Anna wants to create a tribute to her father’s vision and skill.
He is desperate; she, astute and determined.
So when Anna hears whispers that Lord Reculver is discreetly selling some of his possessions, she remembers the large collection of scent bottles purchased from Hawthorne’s over the years … all of them designed by her father.
They are exactly what she needs.
Moreover, selling them to her will give his lordship some of what he needs.
All she has to do, therefore, is make him a reasonable offer.
Simple. Or is it?
Audible Audio
Published December 10, 2024
62 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
About the author
Stella Riley
23 books451 followers Stella Riley lives in Kent, England. She enjoys theatre, travel and playing the harpsichord.
Her award-winning 7 book Rockliffe series (recommended in The Times!) is available in audio, narrated by Alex Wyndham.
She is also the author of 6 books set in the 17th century: The Marigold Chain, A Splendid Defiance, The Black Madonna, Garland of Straw, The King's Falcon and Lords of Misrule.
All titles are available from Amazon, Kobo, Barnes & Noble and Apple.
Rockliffe Book 6 - Cadenza - is the 2019 Readers' Favourite gold medallist for Historical Romance and also the 2021 Book Excellence Awards winner in the Romance category.
Her award-winning 7 book Rockliffe series (recommended in The Times!) is available in audio, narrated by Alex Wyndham.
She is also the author of 6 books set in the 17th century: The Marigold Chain, A Splendid Defiance, The Black Madonna, Garland of Straw, The King's Falcon and Lords of Misrule.
All titles are available from Amazon, Kobo, Barnes & Noble and Apple.
Rockliffe Book 6 - Cadenza - is the 2019 Readers' Favourite gold medallist for Historical Romance and also the 2021 Book Excellence Awards winner in the Romance category.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
January 5, 2025
I have loved all Stella Riley’s novels and am constantly delighted with the new life she brings to traditional historical romance tropes and themes. In Masques of Deception, she has excelled herself. The book has all my favourite elements: fully realised characters, especially a strong and relatable heroine; a marriage of convenience; a gorgeous slow burning romance; a touch of jeopardy and a beautifully depicted historical backdrop.
Anna Hawthorne is the wealthy owner of Hawthorne’s Porcelain which she inherited from her father, having learned from him all facets of the business. Keenly intelligent and sharply astute, Anna has plans to further develop the company. However, underneath the successful businesswoman’s masque lies a socially awkward and self- deprecating soul who is humiliatingly aware that she did not “take” during her one unsuccessful season and earned the soubriquet of the “hedgehog heiress.” Nevertheless, as the story continues, we realise that Anna is kind, generous and always keen to make things better for everyone in her orbit. She is also very, very brave. She is so relatable that I was rooting for her from page one until the end.
This is a story about a marriage of convenience. This kind of marriage has happened throughout history for political or dynastic reasons or as a kind of barter between title and prestige and wealth. Here, Daniel has recently inherited his father’s title and estates along with a mountain of debt that he was not expecting. He is close to despair as he sees no way of repaying the debts nor of looking after his family and tenants. Yet, every one of his finer feelings revolts against a marriage of convenience. He does not want to be ‘bought and paid for” by someone he hardly knows – in a relationship that will last for life.
What follows is the sweetest slow burning romance. From finding he respects the woman he has married; Daniel moves through liking to friendship with Anna. He finds her sound common sense; clear-sighted problem-solving and unfussy manner refreshing and helpful. He is soon relying on her for the support she is all too willing to give. In return, he helps Anna with her problems and a true partnership is born.
Stella Riley’s stories always have a host of fully realised characters who add richness and purpose to the narrative. I particularly liked Rebecca and William and hope to see more of them in future. It was great to catch up with Daniel’s friends from The Shadow Earl and learn what has happened in their lives. There are also two vilely self-serving villains in two separate plot strands that serve to push Daniel and Anna to work even more closely together to overcome the evil they represent.
One of the elements that raise Ms Riley’s work so far above the ordinary are the detailed historical backdrops that are the settings for her stories. Here, the porcelain manufactories of the mid eighteenth century herald the industrial revolution. I loved learning about the different processes involved and adored the inventiveness of the scent bottles story. The juxtaposition of a successfully growing manufacturing business with the difficulties suffered by the landed gentry as they try to make their land productive is telling and adds immeasurable to the richness and depth of the story.
To conclude, I loved this excellent novel and know I will reread it often - whenever I need a dose of uplifting and heartwarming romance. I thoroughly recommend it.
Anna Hawthorne is the wealthy owner of Hawthorne’s Porcelain which she inherited from her father, having learned from him all facets of the business. Keenly intelligent and sharply astute, Anna has plans to further develop the company. However, underneath the successful businesswoman’s masque lies a socially awkward and self- deprecating soul who is humiliatingly aware that she did not “take” during her one unsuccessful season and earned the soubriquet of the “hedgehog heiress.” Nevertheless, as the story continues, we realise that Anna is kind, generous and always keen to make things better for everyone in her orbit. She is also very, very brave. She is so relatable that I was rooting for her from page one until the end.
This is a story about a marriage of convenience. This kind of marriage has happened throughout history for political or dynastic reasons or as a kind of barter between title and prestige and wealth. Here, Daniel has recently inherited his father’s title and estates along with a mountain of debt that he was not expecting. He is close to despair as he sees no way of repaying the debts nor of looking after his family and tenants. Yet, every one of his finer feelings revolts against a marriage of convenience. He does not want to be ‘bought and paid for” by someone he hardly knows – in a relationship that will last for life.
What follows is the sweetest slow burning romance. From finding he respects the woman he has married; Daniel moves through liking to friendship with Anna. He finds her sound common sense; clear-sighted problem-solving and unfussy manner refreshing and helpful. He is soon relying on her for the support she is all too willing to give. In return, he helps Anna with her problems and a true partnership is born.
Stella Riley’s stories always have a host of fully realised characters who add richness and purpose to the narrative. I particularly liked Rebecca and William and hope to see more of them in future. It was great to catch up with Daniel’s friends from The Shadow Earl and learn what has happened in their lives. There are also two vilely self-serving villains in two separate plot strands that serve to push Daniel and Anna to work even more closely together to overcome the evil they represent.
One of the elements that raise Ms Riley’s work so far above the ordinary are the detailed historical backdrops that are the settings for her stories. Here, the porcelain manufactories of the mid eighteenth century herald the industrial revolution. I loved learning about the different processes involved and adored the inventiveness of the scent bottles story. The juxtaposition of a successfully growing manufacturing business with the difficulties suffered by the landed gentry as they try to make their land productive is telling and adds immeasurable to the richness and depth of the story.
To conclude, I loved this excellent novel and know I will reread it often - whenever I need a dose of uplifting and heartwarming romance. I thoroughly recommend it.
October 9, 2024
Stella Riley scores again with this lovely story of an unconventional marriage of convenience.
Our hero needs money, our heroine has oodles of it. He just wants to revitalize his estate and give his sister a London Season, she just wants to run the family porcelain business which she has inherited. He has someone trying to extort money from him, she has a persistent businessman who wants to buy her factory and won't take no for an answer. They each have meddling mothers.
When will they have a chance to fall in love?
I enjoyed every page. I loved that Anna wasn't remotely interested in Daniel's title. I loved that he appreciated her competence in running her business. I totally believed in the slow burn romance.
Our hero needs money, our heroine has oodles of it. He just wants to revitalize his estate and give his sister a London Season, she just wants to run the family porcelain business which she has inherited. He has someone trying to extort money from him, she has a persistent businessman who wants to buy her factory and won't take no for an answer. They each have meddling mothers.
When will they have a chance to fall in love?
I enjoyed every page. I loved that Anna wasn't remotely interested in Daniel's title. I loved that he appreciated her competence in running her business. I totally believed in the slow burn romance.
September 23, 2024
A beautifully told and well researched story, with an enjoyable cast of characters including the refreshingly relatable Anna, who rather than being ashamed of her wealth coming from manufacturing is actually proud of it ( much to her mother's dismay = loved that!) , and Daniel, now Viscount Reculver, one of my fave characters from Stella Riley's previous book "The Shadow Earl" who suddenly inherited his father's position as well as a shameful amount of debt (our carefree fun-loving guy has a whole lot burdening him these days, but he's determined to sort it out somehow). What Anna wants is to keep her porcelain business, she doesn't want to be forced by some man to give it up, and her London season was a fail. She's not really interested in marriage .... but she does want a certain collection of porcelain scent bottles that Dan's father collected.
Dan could solve all his problems by finding himself a wealthy heiress like Anna, but unlike most men in his position he really doesn't want to marry for money. They can both get what they want if they marry each other but it's not quite so straight forward as that ;) Throw into the mix their changing feelings as they get to know each other, their two families, Anna's business, some mystery, some fun comedy scenes, and a few villains - as well as excellent historical detail, descriptions of the people, places, and life of the time period (also not forgetting Dan's friends from the previous book, I always enjoy how Stella's books connect and you see how your other fave characters have been doing since you last read about them) -and you get a brilliant heart-warming story full of surprises.
I loved the different take on the marriage of convenience with Anna being the one to propose and Dan being the hesitant one! There is so much more to Anna herself and her motives than meets the eye (but I don't want to spoil it for you so that's all I'm saying :D ) and Dan definitely gets way more than he bargained for (in a good way!) as the unlikely pair find that they make a perfect team. The slow burn romance throughout was so well done!! What a great match those two make! I enjoyed every second of their story, also I think their character growth throughout the book, as well as the cast of supporting characters is beautifully written too.
Masque of Deceptions was well worth the wait, I couldn't put it down, I'll be re-reading and looking forward to more books in this series - hopefully including some of the other new characters from this story. 5 star fantastic!
Dan could solve all his problems by finding himself a wealthy heiress like Anna, but unlike most men in his position he really doesn't want to marry for money. They can both get what they want if they marry each other but it's not quite so straight forward as that ;) Throw into the mix their changing feelings as they get to know each other, their two families, Anna's business, some mystery, some fun comedy scenes, and a few villains - as well as excellent historical detail, descriptions of the people, places, and life of the time period (also not forgetting Dan's friends from the previous book, I always enjoy how Stella's books connect and you see how your other fave characters have been doing since you last read about them) -and you get a brilliant heart-warming story full of surprises.
I loved the different take on the marriage of convenience with Anna being the one to propose and Dan being the hesitant one! There is so much more to Anna herself and her motives than meets the eye (but I don't want to spoil it for you so that's all I'm saying :D ) and Dan definitely gets way more than he bargained for (in a good way!) as the unlikely pair find that they make a perfect team. The slow burn romance throughout was so well done!! What a great match those two make! I enjoyed every second of their story, also I think their character growth throughout the book, as well as the cast of supporting characters is beautifully written too.
Masque of Deceptions was well worth the wait, I couldn't put it down, I'll be re-reading and looking forward to more books in this series - hopefully including some of the other new characters from this story. 5 star fantastic!
September 7, 2024
A New book by Stella Riley is allais something to look forward to. This is no exception to the rule. It concerns one of the 3 friends we met in the first "Shadows" book and looks at the porcelain making industry in the late eighteen century The unusual relationship between the hero and the heroine- she ,a wealthy heiress and owner of Hawthorn porcelain manufactory proposes marriage to our h,ero so she can pay the debts he inherited Then follows a slow burning romance. Ms Riley style is easy , the atmosphere pleasant and if the premise is rather counter cultural, the warmth of the characters make up for it. Perhaps I n a way, the weakest part of the story are the villains and their reasons for harassing the couple. This is not however enough to drop a star. I really enjoyed this book and warmly recommends it.
November 14, 2024
I'm not sure. In the first part of the story, the hero, Daniel, was so repulsive, I hated him. He treated the heroine, Anna, abominably, and I contemplated abandoning the book. I did stop reading it for a time, while I read other books and other genres. A couple months later, when I didn't have anything new to read, I returned to this story, and it did get better. Daniel definitely improved his attitude and his behavior, and the romance part of the story finally got on track. Perhaps his transformation was the point of this novel, but why Anna liked him from the beginning remains a mystery to me. Granted, Daniel inherited a financial mess from his late father, but many people are in financial difficulties sometimes. Doesn't give one an excuse to be obnoxious.
Overall: I didn't enjoy this novel overmuch, but it seemed an OK read.
Overall: I didn't enjoy this novel overmuch, but it seemed an OK read.
November 24, 2025
lost so much sleep LOL
Absolutely loved Daniel & Anna and the side characters were good too whether annoying, positive or villainous.
Something about Daniel & Anna’s characters I really particularly liked. In hindsight this second book is better than the first, as it was rather hard keeping all the characters straight in the first. Something if that out you off, try this one and I doubt you’ll be disappointed and lose sleep reading just one more page …
Absolutely loved Daniel & Anna and the side characters were good too whether annoying, positive or villainous.
Something about Daniel & Anna’s characters I really particularly liked. In hindsight this second book is better than the first, as it was rather hard keeping all the characters straight in the first. Something if that out you off, try this one and I doubt you’ll be disappointed and lose sleep reading just one more page …
April 7, 2025
3.5 stars.
I always enjoy Stella Riley. This was good, but didn't have quite the hook the first book had so i enjoyed the first book better.
I always enjoy Stella Riley. This was good, but didn't have quite the hook the first book had so i enjoyed the first book better.
December 23, 2024
Another fabulous story from Stella Riley! I loved The Shadow Earl and this was just as good. I cannot wait for Book 3 in this series.
September 3, 2025
Masque of Deceptions is such a beautifully written Regency romance. I loved how the story blends elegance, intrigue, and heartfelt emotion. The characters felt wonderfully alive, and the twists kept me turning the pages. Stella Riley’s storytelling made me feel like I was right there in 1814 London.
November 25, 2024
I have been following this author ever since The Parfait Knight then the Rockliffe Series plus her Civil War work and the Brandon Brothers. It is just that she seldom wrote much over the years. I am just so Grateful that I could read the few books that she turns out over a long stretch of time. Anyways, I am glad she is perking up. So this is an accidental happy Surprise for me. This is Daniel Shelbourne's story, when he inherited the Viscountcy, he inherited a Wealth of Debts. So that when obscenely wealthy heiress Anna Hawthorne of Hawthorne's Porcelain had a brain storm and wanted to buy back her father's earlier limited edition works as a Tribute and a Celebration to his never to be repeated again creative genius, and since from their ledgers were listed their most discerning collectors and buyers, it was inevitable that Anna and Daniel would meet. Plus rumour has it that Viscount Reculver was selling off some family assets (I wonder why the old Viscount's death was not rumoured, though). So, when Anna went to assess the Collection, 2 things were made clear. One, that she would be dealing with the new Viscount, Proud and Poor. Two, that she knew him by sight upon seeing his very affectionate greetings to his young sister each time he came to fetch her home from school for the holidays. And she envied Rebecca her brother's love. Obviously, it was not just the Scent Bottle Collection and snuff boxes that was assessed. Even if the plot and theme are both Tried & True, the author still made it subtly relatable, just what I needed after a series of crime novels.
March 9, 2025
I listened to the audiobook version of this title superbly narrated, as always, by Alex Wyndham.
To those readers of Historical Romance, who grew up reading Georgette Heyer novels, will be drawn to this tale because it brings to mind, A Civil Contract. It’s not the same, but it’s very similar. Anna is the way that we all wish that Jenny could have been and Daniel is as responsive as we all wish that Adam could have been! Also, thankfully, there is NO JULIA! (Only Heyerites will know what I mean). 😂
This is a thoroughly enjoyable story, it’s endearing and engrossing. Following on from Christian’s story, the brothership between the friends is just as evident and Christian’s loyalty to Daniel is clearly evident. This is a great series thus far, as of course it would be. Ms Riley hasn’t put a literary finger wrong thus far. I highly recommend this title (but read book 1 first - The Shadow Earl).
To those readers of Historical Romance, who grew up reading Georgette Heyer novels, will be drawn to this tale because it brings to mind, A Civil Contract. It’s not the same, but it’s very similar. Anna is the way that we all wish that Jenny could have been and Daniel is as responsive as we all wish that Adam could have been! Also, thankfully, there is NO JULIA! (Only Heyerites will know what I mean). 😂
This is a thoroughly enjoyable story, it’s endearing and engrossing. Following on from Christian’s story, the brothership between the friends is just as evident and Christian’s loyalty to Daniel is clearly evident. This is a great series thus far, as of course it would be. Ms Riley hasn’t put a literary finger wrong thus far. I highly recommend this title (but read book 1 first - The Shadow Earl).
September 1, 2024
Fantastic read for Georgian romance fans!
I started this early morning and couldn’t put it down until I’d finished! I really enjoyed Anna and Daniel’s story. Both characters are well-drawn and engrossing. Having first met Daniel as a relatively carefree and amiably mischievous character in the first book of the series, I was excited to see how his character would develop in his own story. His character didn’t disappoint and I was convinced from the outset that he had met his match in Anna; not your standard, stunningly beautiful heroine, nor a social butterfly, but a woman whose actions demonstrate her innate kindness every step of the way. The twists and turns of the story had me engrossed as to whether this unlikely, yet wholly ‘right’ pairing would work out. I wasn’t disappointed!
I started this early morning and couldn’t put it down until I’d finished! I really enjoyed Anna and Daniel’s story. Both characters are well-drawn and engrossing. Having first met Daniel as a relatively carefree and amiably mischievous character in the first book of the series, I was excited to see how his character would develop in his own story. His character didn’t disappoint and I was convinced from the outset that he had met his match in Anna; not your standard, stunningly beautiful heroine, nor a social butterfly, but a woman whose actions demonstrate her innate kindness every step of the way. The twists and turns of the story had me engrossed as to whether this unlikely, yet wholly ‘right’ pairing would work out. I wasn’t disappointed!
September 25, 2024
Superb
Stella Riley never disappoints her readers, and this book is another feather in her cap.
Following the relationship of awkward, businesslike Anna and prideful, arrogant Daniel is a difficult journey through disappointment and heartbreak to a joyous and heartwarming happy ever after.
With their unhelpful and difficult mothers, family secrets, two wicked villains, and Daniel’s group of close friends driving the narrative, the reader is wholly engaged in the proceedings and invested in the various outcomes.
Entertaining, gripping, and unputdownable, I read this in one sitting.
A highly recommended must-read.
Stella Riley never disappoints her readers, and this book is another feather in her cap.
Following the relationship of awkward, businesslike Anna and prideful, arrogant Daniel is a difficult journey through disappointment and heartbreak to a joyous and heartwarming happy ever after.
With their unhelpful and difficult mothers, family secrets, two wicked villains, and Daniel’s group of close friends driving the narrative, the reader is wholly engaged in the proceedings and invested in the various outcomes.
Entertaining, gripping, and unputdownable, I read this in one sitting.
A highly recommended must-read.
September 4, 2024
The historical accuracy of the author’s books are always a pleasure. She chooses time periods that are not overdone and does her research.
I love a book where the characters are interesting and well-developed. The heroine was smart and knew how to get things done. The hero was a solid man who took care of his responsibilities and was someone to be counted on. The romance was a slow burn development. They took their time getting to know each other and the transitions felt real. The two separate mysteries were well done and made the rest of the story more interesting.
I love a book where the characters are interesting and well-developed. The heroine was smart and knew how to get things done. The hero was a solid man who took care of his responsibilities and was someone to be counted on. The romance was a slow burn development. They took their time getting to know each other and the transitions felt real. The two separate mysteries were well done and made the rest of the story more interesting.
October 18, 2024
As always, very enjoyable
So many feisty heroines, so many sensitive men who are nonetheless quite manly. I’m almost bored at this point I’m thinking about a novel of a woman who appears to be very submissive and sweet and shy who, without anybody knowing about it, arranges other peoples lives for the best outcome. Except for one male character, not yet thought up, who resists all her attempts to hook him up with her friend.., Is there such a story? it sounds a bit Jane Austen ish… however while we wait for such a book to come out, we can read more Stella Riley!
So many feisty heroines, so many sensitive men who are nonetheless quite manly. I’m almost bored at this point I’m thinking about a novel of a woman who appears to be very submissive and sweet and shy who, without anybody knowing about it, arranges other peoples lives for the best outcome. Except for one male character, not yet thought up, who resists all her attempts to hook him up with her friend.., Is there such a story? it sounds a bit Jane Austen ish… however while we wait for such a book to come out, we can read more Stella Riley!
September 25, 2024
Well this is the second book of Ms Riley’s I have read and I loved it too! Cracking version of the marriage of convenience- the wealthy lady who has clearly always had a soft spot for the impoverished Lord so is the one to make the marriage offer.
What I particularly loved was the slow burn development of their relationship but that its growth from genuine friendship to love was built in communication. Lovely .
What I particularly loved was the slow burn development of their relationship but that its growth from genuine friendship to love was built in communication. Lovely .
August 31, 2024
Another superb tale
An intriguing tale of deception blackmail and finally true love and new beginnings. Anna and Daniel were perfectly matched and I loved how their story unfolded in spite off the obstacles in their way. Can't wait for the next book in this series.
An intriguing tale of deception blackmail and finally true love and new beginnings. Anna and Daniel were perfectly matched and I loved how their story unfolded in spite off the obstacles in their way. Can't wait for the next book in this series.
April 12, 2025
It's a while since I read a Stella Riley, and I always forget just how great her books are. I love that they follow the genre tropes brilliantly, but with additional depth and complexity, humour, and great characters - and this one was particularly great.
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June 4, 2025Masque of Deceptions was a gorgeous read, and one of my favourite romance themes – a marriage of convenience that turns into true love. It may be a cliché, but I just love that moment when someone realises that they cannot live without their spouse!
October 1, 2024
Absolutely loved this story. Stella Riley never fails, every single one of her books a delight. Really looking forward to the next in the series
January 5, 2025
This gave me A Civil Contract vibes (derogatory). But if you like that one from Heyer, I think you’d enjoy this.
February 25, 2025
A romance that occurs in a manufacturing plant, lawyers offices, and other unusual places. A nice twist on the marriage of convenience trope.
September 25, 2024
Very very enjoyable hist rom, but SR hardly ever fails me. I will say getting a read on the H/h was a little slow for me at first as I just didn’t see any chemistry between Anna and Daniel.
I absolutely loved that Anna owns a pottery manufactory and that the device to bring Anna and Daniel together are these beautifully rendered scent bottles Daniel’s father bought from the pottery manufactory and gifted to Daniel’s mother over the years of their marriage. I can picture them in my mind’s eye, each uniquely beautiful, to celebrate their marriage.
Daniel , our auburn haired (which I have a weakness for in heroes) intrepid hero, appeared initially too wrapped up in his problems and a bit superficial to appreciate Anna as well as his pretty harsh judgments about her, er, desirability, shall we say?
As for Anna she struck me at first glance as someone to be pitied for her unrequited love of Daniel and that she lacked self respect to offer a ‘marriage of convenience.’ He seemed to be getting the best of all worlds - instant financial solvency and a return to society for his mother and sister. The balance felt one-sided in his favor. Putting aside the “love” question, I wondered if he would at least grow to respect, like and admire Anna. The whole setup seemed pretty hopeless that Daniel would ever be able to appreciate her finer points - like her compassion, her empathy for others’ problems/worries/difficulties, her very generous spirit, her patience and her ability to thoughtfully sift through issues and find practical effective solutions, or ever be able to return even a fraction of her tender feelings.
Anna was not unattractive no matter what Daniel thought initially. She simply didn’t emphasize her best physical attributes. I’m not psychoanalyzing her but there were ‘Mommie dearest’ issues - not physical per se but….issues. I’ll leave it at that.
But Anna and Daniel do have a meeting of mind, heart and spirit and both are better for having the influence of the other eventually. So that was a win for me and I progressed from skeptical at this romance working to delight at their happiness.
I’m not sure I like the justice theme meted out for the bad guys (there are not one but two villains, dear friends - an his and hers, so to speak. 😉😎) but then I tend to be blood thirsty and want the full measure of Thor’s hammer to fall upon the enemy’s head.
My only regret is that I didn’t pay attention to the note that this is #2 in a series so I reckon that means I’m off to find and read #1 The Shadow Earl. This oversight on my part has my OCD screaming a full-on RED ALERT with sirens blaring that I have dared to read a book out of order!!!! Horrors! 😱😆
I absolutely loved that Anna owns a pottery manufactory and that the device to bring Anna and Daniel together are these beautifully rendered scent bottles Daniel’s father bought from the pottery manufactory and gifted to Daniel’s mother over the years of their marriage. I can picture them in my mind’s eye, each uniquely beautiful, to celebrate their marriage.
Daniel , our auburn haired (which I have a weakness for in heroes) intrepid hero, appeared initially too wrapped up in his problems and a bit superficial to appreciate Anna as well as his pretty harsh judgments about her, er, desirability, shall we say?
As for Anna she struck me at first glance as someone to be pitied for her unrequited love of Daniel and that she lacked self respect to offer a ‘marriage of convenience.’ He seemed to be getting the best of all worlds - instant financial solvency and a return to society for his mother and sister. The balance felt one-sided in his favor. Putting aside the “love” question, I wondered if he would at least grow to respect, like and admire Anna. The whole setup seemed pretty hopeless that Daniel would ever be able to appreciate her finer points - like her compassion, her empathy for others’ problems/worries/difficulties, her very generous spirit, her patience and her ability to thoughtfully sift through issues and find practical effective solutions, or ever be able to return even a fraction of her tender feelings.
Anna was not unattractive no matter what Daniel thought initially. She simply didn’t emphasize her best physical attributes. I’m not psychoanalyzing her but there were ‘Mommie dearest’ issues - not physical per se but….issues. I’ll leave it at that.
But Anna and Daniel do have a meeting of mind, heart and spirit and both are better for having the influence of the other eventually. So that was a win for me and I progressed from skeptical at this romance working to delight at their happiness.
I’m not sure I like the justice theme meted out for the bad guys (there are not one but two villains, dear friends - an his and hers, so to speak. 😉😎) but then I tend to be blood thirsty and want the full measure of Thor’s hammer to fall upon the enemy’s head.
My only regret is that I didn’t pay attention to the note that this is #2 in a series so I reckon that means I’m off to find and read #1 The Shadow Earl. This oversight on my part has my OCD screaming a full-on RED ALERT with sirens blaring that I have dared to read a book out of order!!!! Horrors! 😱😆
September 2, 2024
(2.5 stars) This is fairly nondescript and generic historical romance fiction. MMC up to his eyeballs in debt incurred by his late father, with a mother to support and a sister who needs a come-out and dowry for success in society, and a super-rich heiress FMC, owner of a successful porcelain factory, who is plain, blunt-spoken, and not one for gracious small talk. Yeah, you have the whole story now, don't you?
There is a slight twist on the premise, in that the heiress is the one who initiates talks about the marriage of convenience and the impoverished noble is very hesitant. But, ya know, his finances begin to look so dire that he finally accepts the deal. And, ya know, the longer he is around her, the more he realizes what a gem she is.
There are a couple little mysteries to unravel, one involving the heiress's factory and one the noble's personal family life, but the way they are developed in the story was, shall we say, a bit boring. And the romance, ya know, was just so so predictable, especially given that both main characters are just as perfect as all Stella Riley's MCs seem to be nowadays.
And, before I shut up, I have to mention one little thing that bothered me with regard to the heiress. Part of the reason she wants to marry this guy is that she wants more independence in her life to go about her work. Yet once she marries him, she spends almost all her time at his estate, redecorating the home, making friends with his mother and sister, visiting the tenants, etc. Twice she leaves to visit the factory, and that because of letters sent to her by the manager. I did not expect her to put her life second to his. Irked me no end.
I continue to buy every new Stella Riley HR that comes out. Old habits, I guess. I still remember how much I enjoyed her earlier work.
There is a slight twist on the premise, in that the heiress is the one who initiates talks about the marriage of convenience and the impoverished noble is very hesitant. But, ya know, his finances begin to look so dire that he finally accepts the deal. And, ya know, the longer he is around her, the more he realizes what a gem she is.
There are a couple little mysteries to unravel, one involving the heiress's factory and one the noble's personal family life, but the way they are developed in the story was, shall we say, a bit boring. And the romance, ya know, was just so so predictable, especially given that both main characters are just as perfect as all Stella Riley's MCs seem to be nowadays.
And, before I shut up, I have to mention one little thing that bothered me with regard to the heiress. Part of the reason she wants to marry this guy is that she wants more independence in her life to go about her work. Yet once she marries him, she spends almost all her time at his estate, redecorating the home, making friends with his mother and sister, visiting the tenants, etc. Twice she leaves to visit the factory, and that because of letters sent to her by the manager. I did not expect her to put her life second to his. Irked me no end.
I continue to buy every new Stella Riley HR that comes out. Old habits, I guess. I still remember how much I enjoyed her earlier work.
January 6, 2025
Masque of Deceptions is the second installment in Stella Riley's Shadows series, and it cleverly melds themes of financial ruin, social pressure, and burgeoning romance within the 1780s England milieu. The author portrays the struggles of Daniel Shelbourne, recently inherited Viscount Reculver, as he navigates his family’s precarious financial position while balancing the expectations of his status. Riley deftly articulates Daniel’s inner turmoil, revealing a man determined to uphold family honor despite overwhelming challenges and debt. On the other hand, Anna Hawthorne emerges as a standout character: a successful entrepreneur and a modern woman for her time, shattering the typical role expected of women in her social class. Her path collides with Daniel’s when she expresses her desire to buy the late Viscount’s collection of porcelain scent bottles. This business transaction unearths layers of both character’s motivations, revealing their mutual dependence on each other’s strengths. Riley excels at portraying their tentative yet deepening bond, adding depth to the narrative by juxtaposing personal ambition with romance. Riley’s prose is rich with detail, invoking a sense of place that immerses the reader in the vibrant colors of the period. The pressing challenges of financial instability and familial obligations create stakes that apply to the personal and broader societal context, leading to a narrative that feels urgent and timeless.
September 2, 2025
Masque of Deceptions, the second book in Stella Riley’s Shadows series, is a captivating historical romance that masterfully blends a slow-burn love story with rich historical detail and a touch of mystery. I was completely swept away by this novel, which showcases Riley’s talent for breathing new life into classic romance tropes.
What I loved most about this book was the chemistry between Anna and Daniel. Their slow-burn romance is beautifully crafted, moving from mutual respect to genuine friendship and, eventually, love. Riley excels at creating multidimensional characters, and both leads shine with authenticity and depth. Anna’s strength and vulnerability, paired with Daniel’s growth from a carefree figure to a responsible partner, make them a couple worth rooting for. The historical backdrop of the mid-Georgian era is meticulously detailed, immersing readers in the period without overwhelming the narrative.
What I loved most about this book was the chemistry between Anna and Daniel. Their slow-burn romance is beautifully crafted, moving from mutual respect to genuine friendship and, eventually, love. Riley excels at creating multidimensional characters, and both leads shine with authenticity and depth. Anna’s strength and vulnerability, paired with Daniel’s growth from a carefree figure to a responsible partner, make them a couple worth rooting for. The historical backdrop of the mid-Georgian era is meticulously detailed, immersing readers in the period without overwhelming the narrative.
September 8, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. Anna Hawthorne wasn’t the usual young lady as she was involved in running her late father’s manufactory. Her father had involved her from a young age and she knew about all the processes in the porcelain trade. Anna was very straightforward and tended to say what she thought. However, she was also kind and caring and treated her workers and their families very fairly. Her business brought her in contact with Daniel Shelbourne, Viscount Reculver. He has problems inherited from his late father. Anna has thought of a way to solve his problems and to an extent hers. I did like the way that Daniel began to appreciate Anna for her own worth. There was so much more to her than first impressions. There are a few villains on the scene to add interest and I liked meeting up with Daniel’s friends from the first in the series. I look forward for reading the next book. One thing I will say is that I appreciate the research that Stella Riley does for her books.
September 21, 2024
A bad guy each for the bride and groom
I am still not sure what the title "Masque of Deceptions" meant or referred to in this story, but the cover alone without the title was enough to draw me in. Very nice looking young man took over all I saw of the cover and I was not even aware of the name of the story until after I started reading it, and I will admit to not even caring what the title was by that time. It was a terrific story and the leading man and woman had wonderful chemistry. I recommend reading this book as the second book in the series. It is a standalone, but you get parts of the back story you would otherwise not know that make it a better more well rounded story.
I am still not sure what the title "Masque of Deceptions" meant or referred to in this story, but the cover alone without the title was enough to draw me in. Very nice looking young man took over all I saw of the cover and I was not even aware of the name of the story until after I started reading it, and I will admit to not even caring what the title was by that time. It was a terrific story and the leading man and woman had wonderful chemistry. I recommend reading this book as the second book in the series. It is a standalone, but you get parts of the back story you would otherwise not know that make it a better more well rounded story.
January 30, 2025
MASQUE OF DECEPTIONS by Stella Riley, set in the 18th century (my personal favorite period, before the Regency went all pre-Victorian) features an admirable heroine and an absence of the all-too-familiar ballrooms. Anna has inherited a thriving porcelain business and has the knowledge and will to run it. By contrast, Daniel, a viscount, has inherited a title and estate without money—and with unexpected debts. He finds he has one potential asset: a collection of extremely valuable porcelain scent bottles that Anna is determined to buy. Might this be a springboard to love? There’s a mystery, too. I recommend it.
September 5, 2025
My book club’s pick, Masque of Deceptions by Stella Riley, was an absolute joy! Anna Hawthorne, a brilliant heiress running her family’s porcelain business, and Daniel Shelbourne, a viscount grappling with inherited debts, form a slow-burn romance that’s both tender and captivating. The mid-Georgian setting, with its vivid depictions of porcelain auctions and elegant society, feels like stepping into history. Riley’s witty dialogue and subtle mystery kept me hooked, making this a 4/5 read I can’t stop recommending!
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