What do you think?
Rate this book
Win a free print copy of this book!
0 days and 07:57:04
50 copies available
U.S. only
Hell's Belles #4
Mastermind
Not yet published
Expected 16 Feb 27Win a free print copy of this book!
0 days and 07:57:04
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?
320 pages, Paperback
Expected publication February 16, 2027
About the author
Sarah MacLean
42 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.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
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)
Want to Read
January 29, 2024WE HAVE A COVER NOW OH FINALLY
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 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.
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!!!!!
---
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!!!!!
---
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.
Want to Read
June 12, 2026MAJOR 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
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
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy.
MacLean's historical romances are usually a good time, and none so much as the final books in each series, which tend to involve fun interpretations of mistaken and/or hidden identity tropes. (Looking at you, Never Judge a Lady by Her Cover and Daring and the Duke. Both of those are fun. Not favorites, but fun. And I stand by my belief that NJaLbHC, whatever our collective feelings about the MMC, is pretty cleverly plotted.) So maybe I had false expectations for Mastermind, because it, too, is the last book in a series, it, too, plays with mistaken and/or hidden identity tropes, and by those benchmarks, it, too, should have been good fun.
This book was so boring.
The most interesting chapter in Mastermind is basically a recap of the last chapter of the previous book. After that, everything is just one protracted carriage ride where two people pretend not to like each other and pretend to know less about each other than they actually do, thanks to more-or-less successful sleuthing. Where are the stakes? Where is the hidden identity-fueled sense of betrayal? Where oh where is the plot? And is this a romance at all, because it reads like an uncomfortable travelogue.
The most promising thing about this book is our introduction to someone who will presumably be a male lead of a future series (more historical romances forthcoming), though he is a monumentally bad at having a secret identity. His roguish alter ego goes by a name that is literally-I-kid-you-not the first half of his title.
MacLean's historical romances are usually a good time, and none so much as the final books in each series, which tend to involve fun interpretations of mistaken and/or hidden identity tropes. (Looking at you, Never Judge a Lady by Her Cover and Daring and the Duke. Both of those are fun. Not favorites, but fun. And I stand by my belief that NJaLbHC, whatever our collective feelings about the MMC, is pretty cleverly plotted.) So maybe I had false expectations for Mastermind, because it, too, is the last book in a series, it, too, plays with mistaken and/or hidden identity tropes, and by those benchmarks, it, too, should have been good fun.
This book was so boring.
The most interesting chapter in Mastermind is basically a recap of the last chapter of the previous book. After that, everything is just one protracted carriage ride where two people pretend not to like each other and pretend to know less about each other than they actually do, thanks to more-or-less successful sleuthing. Where are the stakes? Where is the hidden identity-fueled sense of betrayal? Where oh where is the plot? And is this a romance at all, because it reads like an uncomfortable travelogue.
The most promising thing about this book is our introduction to someone who will presumably be a male lead of a future series (more historical romances forthcoming), though he is a monumentally bad at having a secret identity. His roguish alter ego goes by a name that is literally-I-kid-you-not the first half of his title.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Sarah MacLean's Mastermind is the stunning conclusion to the Hell's Belles series, and it was absolutely worth the wait. ❤️📖 The story follows Duchess (Charlotte), the brilliant leader of a secret society of women taking down corrupt aristocrats, who discovers that her supposedly absent husband, Branok, Duke of Trevescan, has known about her deception all along, and has been watching her for years. When their carefully constructed world collides, Bran refuses to let her disappear, leading to a thrilling adventure filled with banter, yearning, and undeniable chemistry as Duchess learns she doesn't have to face the world alone. 💫
Romance readers will absolutely adore this book, and honestly, I'm completely obsessed with it too! 😭❤️ MacLean has crafted the ultimate swoon-worthy hero in Bran, he's protective, devoted, mysterious, and completely head over heels for Duchess from the start. The dynamic between these two is electric; watching Duchess slowly realize she deserves love and support while Bran patiently proves he's her match is pure magic. The spice is chef's kiss, the banter is witty and sharp, and the emotional depth will have you reaching for tissues. 🥹 This book delivers everything romance readers crave: yearning, forced proximity, a road trip filled with only-one-bed moments, and a hero who would move mountains for his heroine. MacLean's ability to weave together adventure, justice, found family, and a swoon-inducing love story is truly unmatched. Whether you're a longtime fan of the series or new to MacLean's work, Mastermind is a 5-star masterpiece that will leave your heart full and your TBR pile forgotten! ⭐️❤️
Thank you to Avon Books and NetGalley for a ARC of this book.
Romance readers will absolutely adore this book, and honestly, I'm completely obsessed with it too! 😭❤️ MacLean has crafted the ultimate swoon-worthy hero in Bran, he's protective, devoted, mysterious, and completely head over heels for Duchess from the start. The dynamic between these two is electric; watching Duchess slowly realize she deserves love and support while Bran patiently proves he's her match is pure magic. The spice is chef's kiss, the banter is witty and sharp, and the emotional depth will have you reaching for tissues. 🥹 This book delivers everything romance readers crave: yearning, forced proximity, a road trip filled with only-one-bed moments, and a hero who would move mountains for his heroine. MacLean's ability to weave together adventure, justice, found family, and a swoon-inducing love story is truly unmatched. Whether you're a longtime fan of the series or new to MacLean's work, Mastermind is a 5-star masterpiece that will leave your heart full and your TBR pile forgotten! ⭐️❤️
Thank you to Avon Books and NetGalley for a ARC of this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
This was a highly anticipated book! Especially after that ending in Knockout. I have to say while, I did enjoy it, it wasn’t my favorite of the series.
We finally got Duchess’s backstory, and it was very compelling. It explained quite a bit about why she’s so passionate for the cause. The problem is that because of that passion she falls into the trap of being a martyr. Sure she’s out to seek justice for the wrong that was done not only to her, but to countless women by the hands of Mincey, but she’s blinded by this vengeance. She doesn’t see that the army she’s built and the man who’s built his own empire of citizens with questionable pasts (which I loved by the way) are there to stand beside her and help her. Because no she must do this alone and then disappear. Which we’re reminded of constantly to the point where the narrative really gets dragged down.
I loved the banter between Duchess and Branok. They had a ton of chemistry, and I was really rooting for this romance. I like the way their romance unfolded. This one had some of my favorite tropes: roadtrip, tending to a gunshot wound, only one bed. It’s got signature Sarah yearning, and I was here for it. I just wish Duchess hadn’t shut everyone out. It didn’t make sense, and I’m not a fan of removing people’s agency for the greater good.
But look I still really enjoyed the book, and I think it was a great ending to the series. Duchess really met her match in Branok. I love the history behind the Belles, and how it celebrates women who carve their own paths and fight for justice.
This was a highly anticipated book! Especially after that ending in Knockout. I have to say while, I did enjoy it, it wasn’t my favorite of the series.
We finally got Duchess’s backstory, and it was very compelling. It explained quite a bit about why she’s so passionate for the cause. The problem is that because of that passion she falls into the trap of being a martyr. Sure she’s out to seek justice for the wrong that was done not only to her, but to countless women by the hands of Mincey, but she’s blinded by this vengeance. She doesn’t see that the army she’s built and the man who’s built his own empire of citizens with questionable pasts (which I loved by the way) are there to stand beside her and help her. Because no she must do this alone and then disappear. Which we’re reminded of constantly to the point where the narrative really gets dragged down.
I loved the banter between Duchess and Branok. They had a ton of chemistry, and I was really rooting for this romance. I like the way their romance unfolded. This one had some of my favorite tropes: roadtrip, tending to a gunshot wound, only one bed. It’s got signature Sarah yearning, and I was here for it. I just wish Duchess hadn’t shut everyone out. It didn’t make sense, and I’m not a fan of removing people’s agency for the greater good.
But look I still really enjoyed the book, and I think it was a great ending to the series. Duchess really met her match in Branok. I love the history behind the Belles, and how it celebrates women who carve their own paths and fight for justice.
October 17, 2026
I have been waiting YEARS to read this book, so I was thrilled when I got the arc from NetGalley. Sarah MacLean had me checking publication dates every couple months for the past few years, desperate for this release. And as soon as I got approved, I made space to read it.
This is the concluding book in the Hell’s Belles series. I loved all the books in this series, but Duchess’s book was the most interesting to me, especially after the ending of Knockout (book 3). My jaw was on the floor, and I was so happy to relive that scene through the start of this book. I appreciate that we picked up almost seamlessly where that one left off (with a bit of background on both characters added in).
This story is so much more complex than I could have predicted. The reveal of Bran’s past and how that influences him showed how he was a truly perfect match for Duchess. I bought into the love story right away. The tension between them and the “not yet” of Bran every time Duchess said “I’m not your wife” was perfect. I love that he knew from the start that she was for him and then spent the time convincing her of it too.
The way Sarah MacLean crafts a story is unmatched. The tension and pacing and historical elements and found family and vengeance all blend together for the most compelling story. I have loved all her historical romances so far, and this one is no different. I wholeheartedly recommend this (and the rest of the series) for a girl-power story along with a beautiful love story.
Thanks to NetGalley and Avon for this ARC!
This is the concluding book in the Hell’s Belles series. I loved all the books in this series, but Duchess’s book was the most interesting to me, especially after the ending of Knockout (book 3). My jaw was on the floor, and I was so happy to relive that scene through the start of this book. I appreciate that we picked up almost seamlessly where that one left off (with a bit of background on both characters added in).
This story is so much more complex than I could have predicted. The reveal of Bran’s past and how that influences him showed how he was a truly perfect match for Duchess. I bought into the love story right away. The tension between them and the “not yet” of Bran every time Duchess said “I’m not your wife” was perfect. I love that he knew from the start that she was for him and then spent the time convincing her of it too.
The way Sarah MacLean crafts a story is unmatched. The tension and pacing and historical elements and found family and vengeance all blend together for the most compelling story. I have loved all her historical romances so far, and this one is no different. I wholeheartedly recommend this (and the rest of the series) for a girl-power story along with a beautiful love story.
Thanks to NetGalley and Avon for this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
✨ ARC REVIEW ✨
📖 Mastermind by Sarah MacLean
⭐️ 5/5
🌶️ 2/5
Tropes: He Falls First • Fake Marriage • Forced Proximity
I HAVE WAITED YEARS FOR THIS BOOK!! 😭❤️
I’ve been dying to get Duchess’s story, and I just knew it was going to be something special. Sarah MacLean did not disappoint!
I was absolutely obsessed with how much the Duke loved Duchess from the very beginning. The way he adored her, protected her, and was completely devoted to her had me swooning! And when he told her he would be her shield?! 🥹❤️ I MELTED. Seriously, this man is TOP-TIER book boyfriend material!
Duchess was everything I hoped she would be, and I loved finally getting to see her story unfold. After waiting so long for this book, I couldn’t have asked for a better experience reading it.
Sarah MacLean is truly a master storyteller. The way she creates such strong, unforgettable characters and weaves together romance, emotion, and incredible storytelling is just unmatched. She has such a gift for making you fall completely in love with her characters.
This was easily a 5-star read for me and is absolutely a top read for me! ❤️
A huge thank you to Sarah MacLean and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC! 🫶
📖 Mastermind by Sarah MacLean
⭐️ 5/5
🌶️ 2/5
Tropes: He Falls First • Fake Marriage • Forced Proximity
I HAVE WAITED YEARS FOR THIS BOOK!! 😭❤️
I’ve been dying to get Duchess’s story, and I just knew it was going to be something special. Sarah MacLean did not disappoint!
I was absolutely obsessed with how much the Duke loved Duchess from the very beginning. The way he adored her, protected her, and was completely devoted to her had me swooning! And when he told her he would be her shield?! 🥹❤️ I MELTED. Seriously, this man is TOP-TIER book boyfriend material!
Duchess was everything I hoped she would be, and I loved finally getting to see her story unfold. After waiting so long for this book, I couldn’t have asked for a better experience reading it.
Sarah MacLean is truly a master storyteller. The way she creates such strong, unforgettable characters and weaves together romance, emotion, and incredible storytelling is just unmatched. She has such a gift for making you fall completely in love with her characters.
This was easily a 5-star read for me and is absolutely a top read for me! ❤️
A huge thank you to Sarah MacLean and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC! 🫶
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Sarah MacLean’s newest regency romance, the final installment of the Hell’s Belles series, is compelling, fast paced and delicious. MacLean offers up the hope of feminism again.
Seeing Duchess from another perspective was satisfying. As most of us have, at one time or another, Duchess has let her history blind her. My primary (teeny-tiny really) disappointment was the underlying premise of Duchess’ fear. She knew her friends - isn’t that the power of the Hell’s Belles? I did hope for more interaction with the Belles but I understand that would require a much longer book (a perfectly reasonable approach for a series I hoped would never end!).
I definitely recommend Mastermind. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ If you haven’t already read the earlier books in this series, set some time aside and revel in camaraderie, adventure, witty characters and, of course, romance.
Thank you NetGalley and Avon Books for the ARC. As a side note, a trigger warning would be welcome.
Seeing Duchess from another perspective was satisfying. As most of us have, at one time or another, Duchess has let her history blind her. My primary (teeny-tiny really) disappointment was the underlying premise of Duchess’ fear. She knew her friends - isn’t that the power of the Hell’s Belles? I did hope for more interaction with the Belles but I understand that would require a much longer book (a perfectly reasonable approach for a series I hoped would never end!).
I definitely recommend Mastermind. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ If you haven’t already read the earlier books in this series, set some time aside and revel in camaraderie, adventure, witty characters and, of course, romance.
Thank you NetGalley and Avon Books for the ARC. As a side note, a trigger warning would be welcome.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What an ending to the Hell’s Belles!!! I am so so sad to see the end of this series. I love a regency romance with a kickass FMC and a yearning MMC. That is what this entire series is! I really enjoyed this book. I loved watching the relationship evolve and watching Duchess let go of all the pain she held on to. Minus half a star for the smut getting in the way of the plot. I wish we focused just a tad bit more on destroying the villain to be honest. But I also appreciated that this love story had to evolve from hating men to loving one. I am so glad that all of our Belles finally got the happy ending they all deserved! I’m not a big crier, but the epilogue almost got me!
If you love regency romances with a kickass FMC and a man that is head over heels for her, this is the book for you. If you don’t like when a good part of the plot is smut, you might not find this one super entertaining.
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for gifting me this eARC to review!
If you love regency romances with a kickass FMC and a man that is head over heels for her, this is the book for you. If you don’t like when a good part of the plot is smut, you might not find this one super entertaining.
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for gifting me this eARC to review!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the reason I love historicals. Duchess, who runs a gang of women who impart vigilante justice on corrupt powerful men in London, needs funding and a cover for her enterprise. Naturally, she pretends to be the wife of a hermit duke who lives on an island. Little does she know said duke hears about his "wife" squatting in his house and stealing his money and he decides rather than turn her in he'll just let her carry on while secretly funding her endeavors and pining over her badassery for 8 years. When it looks like she's planning to cut and run, Bran decides that ain't gonna work and shows up in London to soft kidnap her in hopes she gives him a chance. Needless to say, I loved this right off the bat.
I hadn't read the previous books in the series so there was some background missing for me, but I definitely will after this. I think you could read it separately, though.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
I hadn't read the previous books in the series so there was some background missing for me, but I definitely will after this. I think you could read it separately, though.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews