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Enchanted Regency Romance #1
The Masked Baron
Andalin is accustomed to her father’s frequent travels—and to being left behind. So when he returns home and instructs her to pack her belongings, she is bewildered—but there is no time for questions as she is whisked away on a mysterious journey under the cover of night. When their tense flight leads them into the forbidding Black Forest, the pair quickly finds themselves in great peril. With little hope of escape, father and daughter are spared when rescue appears in the form of the mysterious Dark Rider, a notorious deadly highwayman feared by all he meets. But his assistance does not come without a price: he is taking Andalin with him. Now her fate rests in the hands of the enigmatic masked man whose secrets are inescapably tied to the beautiful young woman now in his charge.
228 pages, Paperback
First published March 2, 2020
116 people are currently reading
2253 people want to read
About the author
Anneka R. Walker
26 books604 followersAnneka Walker was raised by a librarian and an English teacher turned judge. After being fed a steady diet of books, she decided to learn about writing. The result was a bachelor's degree in English and History. When she isn't dreaming up a happy ending for a story, she's busy living her own together with her husband and adorable children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 402 reviews
January 31, 2020
Well, Well, Well,
This title says Regency Romance on the cover, but it is so very different from any Regency romance I have ever read and I have read quite a few... ; )
It is a Beauty and the Beast retelling, but in a way that creates a stunning and very original world, a unique vivid storyline, and dashing strong characters.
I feel so fortunate to have found this novel. It is a rare gem among books.
And now I need to go get some food because I kinda forgot to eat while reading and my kids will be home from school soon.
This title says Regency Romance on the cover, but it is so very different from any Regency romance I have ever read and I have read quite a few... ; )
It is a Beauty and the Beast retelling, but in a way that creates a stunning and very original world, a unique vivid storyline, and dashing strong characters.
I feel so fortunate to have found this novel. It is a rare gem among books.
And now I need to go get some food because I kinda forgot to eat while reading and my kids will be home from school soon.
April 21, 2025
3 stars ⭐️ Clean Fiction - Regency - Fairytale Retelling
I’ve had my eye on this series since I first learned about it. This was a really interesting take on Beauty and the Beast. Regency and non-magical is already a plot changer, but this also had the Gaston character being a creep so much that our Belle’s father is leaving her in the care of the Beast to protect her. It was different, but made me more curious to how the story would go.
That said, Andalin drove me a bit batty. She was stubborn just for the sake of being stubborn. I can’t blame her for her reactions, but I can still shake my head at them. I did appreciate that the Beast/Ellison was kind to her. However, when he had his moments of anger and threatening serious harm others, he was terrifying both to Andalin and myself. I felt like wanting to be Olaf whispering to Anna to make a break for it. It was almost Stockholm Syndrome, but in a way where the guy wasn’t absolutely horrible and he did have friends who knew his secret, but still. She falls for him while being his ward, soooo…..😅
I listened to the audiobook for the last half of the book while reading along and there were a couple words added to the audiobook (such as bloody as a exclamation) or a missing sentence that wasn’t super important. Which was odd, but I assumed it was because perhaps the ebook had been updated after the audiobook was produced.
The last ten percent had Andalin being ridiculous for some of it—thinking because something has changed, Ellis doesn’t actually love her and is acting. Like, girl, I’m going to bang my head into a wall, you’re annoying me, get it together. Besides that, the ending was good. I would say this story was somewhat mediocre, though, overall. It was clean enough, but kind of boring at times. I was expecting some twists, but I figured them out ahead due to foreshadowing and was bummed it went about the way I expected it to.
A few books I’ve read by this LDS publisher have had faith content within the story and some have not. This book was in the first category and had a handful of mentions about God, but it felt more like it was the “proper thing” for the time period rather than the characters having a personal relationship with Christ. Our Beast is consumed with wanting revenge on the “witch” who altered his life forever and hating her; there’s no talks about letting the Lord handle it instead of Ellison who was completely focused on that. At one point, he can’t sleep so he reads some Scriptures and it’s noted that even that’s not enough to put him to sleep, which felt flippant and disrespectful.
Overall, this book wasn’t bad, but I think I had much higher expectations for it. That’s partially my fault because of hyping it up in my mind, but also not taking in to account that this is a Beauty and the Beast retelling—a retelling I’m finding that I’m tired of. I’ll definitely be continuing on with the series, but it doesn’t look like it’s connected to this book based off of the unfamiliar names on the backcovers.
Main Content-
Some ’H’s are capital when referring to God; Mentions of God; A few mentions of praying; A couple mentions of praising the Lord and thanking God; A couple mentions of sending pleas to heaven; A couple mentions of things are said to look like or feel like heaven (such as Ellison thinking that when Andalin leans into him, it’s like heaven); A mention of a miracle; A mention of going to church; A mention of a woman feeling her faith returning.
Ellison spends an hour reading verses of Scripture to calm his mind and when that doesn’t “knock him out” to sleep, he tries to think of other things like kissing Andalin; Ellison believes his joy and happiness are dependent on Andalin’s; Later, he calls her an angel; Ellison thinks that Andalin becomes like a “goddess” to him when her hair is down; Andalin thinks Ellison looks like Adonis without his mask.
Ellison threatens Andalin about taking her to a witch that collects beautiful things; Ellison asks Andalin if she is a God-fearing woman and when she nods, he says that the witch and sorcery only has power over those who believe in it; A woman is called a witch because of her obsession with beauty and rumors about it; A couple people call the witch “the devil herself”; Mentions of said witch, sorcery, spells, her cursing others, and a magical gem (there is actually no magic nor sorcery, but a story expands to include it when telling about a witch); A couple mentions of not believing in magic; A mention of ghosts from the past.
*Spoilers about the witch element* *Major Spoilers* .
A man asks if Ellison turns into a werewolf every full moon; A man is called a devil.
No language stronger than words like ‘stupid’ and ‘idiot’ & British words like ‘bloody’ and ‘blast it all’ along with phrases like ‘heavens’, ‘for heaven’s sake’ and ‘good heavens’; Eye rolling & Sarcasm; Andalin and Ellison both lie (Andalin argues in her mind once that she didn’t lie, but merely avoided confrontation); Andalin eavesdrops; Andalin snoops and tries to take off Ellison’s mask.
Ellison threatens others with his knife and sword, feeding them to the wolves, stabbing or cutting off limbs, and also hold some a sword-point.
Fighting & knocking others unconscious; Being kidnapped, Being threatened, passing out, & a fire (all up to a handful of sentences).
Many mentions of gossip, rumors, & stories about the Dark Rider that shares about his horriblenesses, causing injuries to others, and even that he killed his own parents (other says he is part animal; Andalin shares these as well because she loves stories, but feels guilt later for continuing the cycle of spreading vicious gossip); Many mentions of hatred & wanting revenge; Mentions of deaths (natural and poisoned), a murderer, grief, & a missing family member; Mentions of Ellison killing others (rumored and true); Mentions of fighting/fights & duels; Mentions of murderers, thieves, criminals, prisons, stealing, & stolen items; Mentions of kidnappings & kidnappers; Mentions of fires & damage; Mentions of injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding (up to a few sentences); Mentions of lies & lying; A few mentions of someone having a “sickness of the mind”; A few mentions of alcohol, drinking, drunks, & taverns; A few mentions of jealousy; A mention of gambling hells.
2 hand kisses (lasting a couple sentences),
3 cheek kisses,
1 nose kiss,
1 forehead kiss,
1 kiss lasting a sentence,
2 kisses lasting a couple sentences,
4 kisses lasting 4-6 sentences each (and ends with her on his lap);
Remembering kisses (up to a few sentences); Wanting to kiss (up to a few sentences); Staring at lips.
Touches, Embraces, Hand holding, Warmth, Nearness, & Smelling (up to a few sentences); Wanting to touch & embrace (up to a few sentences); Flirting & Blushes; Noticing & Staring (including noticing muscles, up to a few sentences).
Andalin’s father always insisted that she covers her hair to keep men from staring at her, and Ellison is also tempted by her hair, so he orders her to always have it up; Andalin realizes that a sweaty man can be handsome when she sees Ellison sweaty; Ellison longs for Andalin, particularly when seeing her hair down; Halfway through, Andalin starts to fantasize about Ellison and dancing with him.
The Gaston character acts possessive towards Andalin and touches her face without her permission and she is very uncomfortable around him (her father later tells her that Gaston is a rake and “ruined many a virtuous woman”); A man assumes that Andalin is the Dark Rider’s “light-skirts”.
Mentions of reputations & chaperones; A few mentions of flirting; A couple mentions of jealousy.
I’ve had my eye on this series since I first learned about it. This was a really interesting take on Beauty and the Beast. Regency and non-magical is already a plot changer, but this also had the Gaston character being a creep so much that our Belle’s father is leaving her in the care of the Beast to protect her. It was different, but made me more curious to how the story would go.
That said, Andalin drove me a bit batty. She was stubborn just for the sake of being stubborn. I can’t blame her for her reactions, but I can still shake my head at them. I did appreciate that the Beast/Ellison was kind to her. However, when he had his moments of anger and threatening serious harm others, he was terrifying both to Andalin and myself. I felt like wanting to be Olaf whispering to Anna to make a break for it. It was almost Stockholm Syndrome, but in a way where the guy wasn’t absolutely horrible and he did have friends who knew his secret, but still. She falls for him while being his ward, soooo…..😅
I listened to the audiobook for the last half of the book while reading along and there were a couple words added to the audiobook (such as bloody as a exclamation) or a missing sentence that wasn’t super important. Which was odd, but I assumed it was because perhaps the ebook had been updated after the audiobook was produced.
The last ten percent had Andalin being ridiculous for some of it—thinking because something has changed, Ellis doesn’t actually love her and is acting. Like, girl, I’m going to bang my head into a wall, you’re annoying me, get it together. Besides that, the ending was good. I would say this story was somewhat mediocre, though, overall. It was clean enough, but kind of boring at times. I was expecting some twists, but I figured them out ahead due to foreshadowing and was bummed it went about the way I expected it to.
A few books I’ve read by this LDS publisher have had faith content within the story and some have not. This book was in the first category and had a handful of mentions about God, but it felt more like it was the “proper thing” for the time period rather than the characters having a personal relationship with Christ. Our Beast is consumed with wanting revenge on the “witch” who altered his life forever and hating her; there’s no talks about letting the Lord handle it instead of Ellison who was completely focused on that. At one point, he can’t sleep so he reads some Scriptures and it’s noted that even that’s not enough to put him to sleep, which felt flippant and disrespectful.
Overall, this book wasn’t bad, but I think I had much higher expectations for it. That’s partially my fault because of hyping it up in my mind, but also not taking in to account that this is a Beauty and the Beast retelling—a retelling I’m finding that I’m tired of. I’ll definitely be continuing on with the series, but it doesn’t look like it’s connected to this book based off of the unfamiliar names on the backcovers.
Main Content-
Some ’H’s are capital when referring to God; Mentions of God; A few mentions of praying; A couple mentions of praising the Lord and thanking God; A couple mentions of sending pleas to heaven; A couple mentions of things are said to look like or feel like heaven (such as Ellison thinking that when Andalin leans into him, it’s like heaven); A mention of a miracle; A mention of going to church; A mention of a woman feeling her faith returning.
Ellison spends an hour reading verses of Scripture to calm his mind and when that doesn’t “knock him out” to sleep, he tries to think of other things like kissing Andalin; Ellison believes his joy and happiness are dependent on Andalin’s; Later, he calls her an angel; Ellison thinks that Andalin becomes like a “goddess” to him when her hair is down; Andalin thinks Ellison looks like Adonis without his mask.
Ellison threatens Andalin about taking her to a witch that collects beautiful things; Ellison asks Andalin if she is a God-fearing woman and when she nods, he says that the witch and sorcery only has power over those who believe in it; A woman is called a witch because of her obsession with beauty and rumors about it; A couple people call the witch “the devil herself”; Mentions of said witch, sorcery, spells, her cursing others, and a magical gem (there is actually no magic nor sorcery, but a story expands to include it when telling about a witch); A couple mentions of not believing in magic; A mention of ghosts from the past.
*Spoilers about the witch element* *Major Spoilers* .
A man asks if Ellison turns into a werewolf every full moon; A man is called a devil.
No language stronger than words like ‘stupid’ and ‘idiot’ & British words like ‘bloody’ and ‘blast it all’ along with phrases like ‘heavens’, ‘for heaven’s sake’ and ‘good heavens’; Eye rolling & Sarcasm; Andalin and Ellison both lie (Andalin argues in her mind once that she didn’t lie, but merely avoided confrontation); Andalin eavesdrops; Andalin snoops and tries to take off Ellison’s mask.
Ellison threatens others with his knife and sword, feeding them to the wolves, stabbing or cutting off limbs, and also hold some a sword-point.
Fighting & knocking others unconscious; Being kidnapped, Being threatened, passing out, & a fire (all up to a handful of sentences).
Many mentions of gossip, rumors, & stories about the Dark Rider that shares about his horriblenesses, causing injuries to others, and even that he killed his own parents (other says he is part animal; Andalin shares these as well because she loves stories, but feels guilt later for continuing the cycle of spreading vicious gossip); Many mentions of hatred & wanting revenge; Mentions of deaths (natural and poisoned), a murderer, grief, & a missing family member; Mentions of Ellison killing others (rumored and true); Mentions of fighting/fights & duels; Mentions of murderers, thieves, criminals, prisons, stealing, & stolen items; Mentions of kidnappings & kidnappers; Mentions of fires & damage; Mentions of injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding (up to a few sentences); Mentions of lies & lying; A few mentions of someone having a “sickness of the mind”; A few mentions of alcohol, drinking, drunks, & taverns; A few mentions of jealousy; A mention of gambling hells.
2 hand kisses (lasting a couple sentences),
3 cheek kisses,
1 nose kiss,
1 forehead kiss,
1 kiss lasting a sentence,
2 kisses lasting a couple sentences,
4 kisses lasting 4-6 sentences each (and ends with her on his lap);
Remembering kisses (up to a few sentences); Wanting to kiss (up to a few sentences); Staring at lips.
Touches, Embraces, Hand holding, Warmth, Nearness, & Smelling (up to a few sentences); Wanting to touch & embrace (up to a few sentences); Flirting & Blushes; Noticing & Staring (including noticing muscles, up to a few sentences).
Andalin’s father always insisted that she covers her hair to keep men from staring at her, and Ellison is also tempted by her hair, so he orders her to always have it up; Andalin realizes that a sweaty man can be handsome when she sees Ellison sweaty; Ellison longs for Andalin, particularly when seeing her hair down; Halfway through, Andalin starts to fantasize about Ellison and dancing with him.
The Gaston character acts possessive towards Andalin and touches her face without her permission and she is very uncomfortable around him (her father later tells her that Gaston is a rake and “ruined many a virtuous woman”); A man assumes that Andalin is the Dark Rider’s “light-skirts”.
Mentions of reputations & chaperones; A few mentions of flirting; A couple mentions of jealousy.
March 5, 2020
Beauty and the Beast is one of my favorite fairy tales, especially for retellings! This book definitely brought the moodiness and uncertainty to life as Andalin's small world is upended and she comes to live at the neglected estate of a reclusive masked baron. I enjoyed the details that made the story its own, including the Regency setting that grounded the fantasy-like feeling and the mystery behind the Black Forest and Ellis' family. It didn't feel predictable or cliché. I especially enjoyed watching Andalin and Ellis warm up to each other and begin to understand the nuances of their personalities. There were a few things that didn't quite add up for me, and some scenes where I thought more development would have been beneficial, but overall it was an intriguing story with a cast of characters that were vibrant and memorable. I'm looking forward to reading more from this author!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
February 7, 2020
Beauty and the Beast meets a Regency Highwayman...
There's not much better than a strong hero who is enshrouded in secrecy and this devilishly sweet highwayman was more than I hoped for. The mask and all it encompassed was so attractive and intriguing.
This author is fairly new to me, but I devoured her first book and couldn't wait to get my hands on this one. I was pleasantly surprised to find that there are threads of the beloved tale, Beauty and the Beast, woven throughout this marvelous story, which immediately endeared it to me. As the tale progresses and the reader is taken through the mists of mystery, danger, revenge, and love, my whole heart was captured. That mask had me so attentive to the story and I was desperate for Andalin and the Dark Rider to connect and let it fall.
Andalin is such a curious girl, but she's determined, willing, and accepting. While the Dark Rider has an agenda and leads a home of extreme loyalty and big secrets, his character is completely protective and upstanding, and I fell hard for this peculiar man and his heart of gold. In fact, I loved every character and interaction in this mystical story.
Walker magically transported me into a world that I didn't want to leave and I'm anxiously awaiting more great books from her!
Content: mild romance; moments of peril/danger; very mild violence
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
There's not much better than a strong hero who is enshrouded in secrecy and this devilishly sweet highwayman was more than I hoped for. The mask and all it encompassed was so attractive and intriguing.
This author is fairly new to me, but I devoured her first book and couldn't wait to get my hands on this one. I was pleasantly surprised to find that there are threads of the beloved tale, Beauty and the Beast, woven throughout this marvelous story, which immediately endeared it to me. As the tale progresses and the reader is taken through the mists of mystery, danger, revenge, and love, my whole heart was captured. That mask had me so attentive to the story and I was desperate for Andalin and the Dark Rider to connect and let it fall.
Andalin is such a curious girl, but she's determined, willing, and accepting. While the Dark Rider has an agenda and leads a home of extreme loyalty and big secrets, his character is completely protective and upstanding, and I fell hard for this peculiar man and his heart of gold. In fact, I loved every character and interaction in this mystical story.
Walker magically transported me into a world that I didn't want to leave and I'm anxiously awaiting more great books from her!
Content: mild romance; moments of peril/danger; very mild violence
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
December 6, 2019
A regency tale with a familiar Beauty & the Beast style plot, though different enough to not be predictable. So much to love about this story, most of which are its main characters.
I could not put this down, and now it’s finished I just want to go back and read it all again. *sigh*
I could not put this down, and now it’s finished I just want to go back and read it all again. *sigh*
March 4, 2020
This is my first book by this fairly new author but if all of her books capture and hold my attention like this one did, it won't be my last. I didn't want to put it down. There's so much to love about this story. First, there's the Dark Rider--is he a highwayman to be feared as the stories in the surrounding towns say he is? There's Andalin, whose father brings her to the home of the Dark Rider to live, but why does he do it? And there's a Beauty and the Beast feel to the story for all of us who still love fairy tales.
Andalin/Annie is a far braver girl than I would ever hope to be. She willingly goes with her father to the home of a man who she discovers is the infamous Dark Rider. At first she doesn't know why Ellison/Ellis wants her there so she makes things a little harder on him (and herself) until she realizes she's been acting like a child, then she starts changing her attitude. There's no way I would've followed anyone into the dark forest at night; just reading about it was enough for me.
Ellison/Ellis was so mysterious. From the beginning I doubted that the stories about the Dark Rider were true. That's the only thing I got right in this story. The reason why Ellison wears a mask isn't what you'd think. One of my favorite scenes is when Andalin sees him without the mask. He's a wonderful character and I fell in love with him before the end of the book.
I was surprised at the twist towards the end of the book. I call it a twist because it wasn't what I thought was going to happen and it took me completely by surprise. One of the best parts is there's a happily ever after for more than one character. *sigh* I look forward to more wonderful stories by this author.
I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts expressed in my review are my own. I enjoyed this book so much I bought a copy for my personal collection.
Andalin/Annie is a far braver girl than I would ever hope to be. She willingly goes with her father to the home of a man who she discovers is the infamous Dark Rider. At first she doesn't know why Ellison/Ellis wants her there so she makes things a little harder on him (and herself) until she realizes she's been acting like a child, then she starts changing her attitude. There's no way I would've followed anyone into the dark forest at night; just reading about it was enough for me.
Ellison/Ellis was so mysterious. From the beginning I doubted that the stories about the Dark Rider were true. That's the only thing I got right in this story. The reason why Ellison wears a mask isn't what you'd think. One of my favorite scenes is when Andalin sees him without the mask. He's a wonderful character and I fell in love with him before the end of the book.
I was surprised at the twist towards the end of the book. I call it a twist because it wasn't what I thought was going to happen and it took me completely by surprise. One of the best parts is there's a happily ever after for more than one character. *sigh* I look forward to more wonderful stories by this author.
I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts expressed in my review are my own. I enjoyed this book so much I bought a copy for my personal collection.
March 10, 2020
⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Masked Barron • Historical Fiction • Clean Romance •Release date March, 2, 2020 • Publishers Covenant Communications • Mysterious • Beauty and the Beast feeling • Loved the Cover • HEA• Didn’t like the heroine • Wanted to like the Hero more • Dragged a little • Liked it well enough to read another by this Author • Netgalley read • I gave a honest review and all opinions are my own •
The Masked Barron • Historical Fiction • Clean Romance •Release date March, 2, 2020 • Publishers Covenant Communications • Mysterious • Beauty and the Beast feeling • Loved the Cover • HEA• Didn’t like the heroine • Wanted to like the Hero more • Dragged a little • Liked it well enough to read another by this Author • Netgalley read • I gave a honest review and all opinions are my own •
March 5, 2020
THE MASKED BARON is a story of wrong assumptions, loss, justice, friendship and love. The characters are endearing and the story sweet.
This felt very much like a reimagining of Beauty and the Beast. I enjoyed the various twists and the constant underlying feeling of danger. There were several nods to the classic fairy tale, but the author really made the story her own. There was this feel of mystery throughout the story and slowly pieces of what happened and why are slowly unveiled.
I adored these characters, especially as they grew on me as the story progressed! Andalin is sweet and caring. She's also loyal, particularly to her father. Much is thrown at her all at once with a very unusual situation and she slowly grows into her role and finding her place in this new life of hers. Ellis is vague and hidden with the mask he wears and in his interactions with Andalin. He slowly finds himself opening up to Andalin and torn between what he feels is his duty and the growing romance with her. The servants were fun additions as were Ellis' friends. The romance is very sweet, but with some sparks in the end.
I had a bit of a time getting into this story. It didn't help that I found the heroine rather petulant in the beginning (she did grow on me as the story went and when she wasn't acting childish), and the plot was just so preposterous that I had quite a time believing anything was plausible. It just didn't make sense to me, and not only in the beginning and when other things came to light, but also in the end with Ellis' sister's situation. I just couldn't make myself buy it, so I think readers' would need to suspend belief quite a bit to enjoy this one, or just take things as realistic without wanting it to be logical or true to the time period. The dialogue wasn't always smooth either and I felt the chemistry lacking between the characters until towards the end.
In the end, was it what I wished for? Overall, I had issues with the story, but still enjoyed it. It's an interesting twist on a classic fairy tale. I liked the characters and the romance was sweet.
Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
This felt very much like a reimagining of Beauty and the Beast. I enjoyed the various twists and the constant underlying feeling of danger. There were several nods to the classic fairy tale, but the author really made the story her own. There was this feel of mystery throughout the story and slowly pieces of what happened and why are slowly unveiled.
I adored these characters, especially as they grew on me as the story progressed! Andalin is sweet and caring. She's also loyal, particularly to her father. Much is thrown at her all at once with a very unusual situation and she slowly grows into her role and finding her place in this new life of hers. Ellis is vague and hidden with the mask he wears and in his interactions with Andalin. He slowly finds himself opening up to Andalin and torn between what he feels is his duty and the growing romance with her. The servants were fun additions as were Ellis' friends. The romance is very sweet, but with some sparks in the end.
I had a bit of a time getting into this story. It didn't help that I found the heroine rather petulant in the beginning (she did grow on me as the story went and when she wasn't acting childish), and the plot was just so preposterous that I had quite a time believing anything was plausible. It just didn't make sense to me, and not only in the beginning and when other things came to light, but also in the end with Ellis' sister's situation. I just couldn't make myself buy it, so I think readers' would need to suspend belief quite a bit to enjoy this one, or just take things as realistic without wanting it to be logical or true to the time period. The dialogue wasn't always smooth either and I felt the chemistry lacking between the characters until towards the end.
In the end, was it what I wished for? Overall, I had issues with the story, but still enjoyed it. It's an interesting twist on a classic fairy tale. I liked the characters and the romance was sweet.
Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
January 25, 2025
I didn't read the 277 paged version mine was the 228 version. Nothing disappointed me it was a good regency romance but different from any other one I've read. It did have beauty and the beast vibes, I liked it. My rating would be like 4.5/5. It was a good read.
(Side thought: I wanna read a book where the female is the mysterious person or whatever instead of the male. Bc I feel like there are a bunch of books where the male is the highwayman or dark character. Be cool to read a book where there is a "highway woman" or whatever)
(Side thought: I wanna read a book where the female is the mysterious person or whatever instead of the male. Bc I feel like there are a bunch of books where the male is the highwayman or dark character. Be cool to read a book where there is a "highway woman" or whatever)
September 3, 2021
hang on while i do a quick sweep of the thesaurus for words similar to ‘colossal disappointment’
i had a lot of high hopes for this one but alas i was doubly let down 😔
what i found really funny was the author tried really hard to paint this ellison/dark rider character like westley from ‘the princess bride’ but ended up coming short of what they were trying to achieve. like don’t you dARE do my poor westley dirty like that.
now to the actual tea—
things i sorta liked:
• ‘the beauty and the beast’ retelling promise that i initially came in for (but after 30% it took a whole other route which dipped real fast into the zone of ‘anticlimactic’)
• the narration—only redeeming quality tbh
thinks that irked me:
• the plot, especially the backstory of this supposedly malevolent witch was second rate at best. i was expecting more ‘zapping people into frogs’ kinda action and swashbuckling adventure but no
• the romance storyline was mediocre and the level of cheese was astronomical. if it’s not on my pizza or in my sandwiches, then cheese should not be wasted like that. *repeat it with me*
• if i didn’t already mention this, the villains in this story ie mr crow (aka gaston reincarnated as mr collins) and the wicked witch of disappointment island
• the cheap shot taken by the author by revealing that the wicked witch of disappointment island (and co.) were related to andalin. say wHAT
• what really confused me the most was this whole time, ellison aka the so called dark rider’s character was meant to be this formidable impenetrable kylo ren-esque antihero archetype with a kickass redemption arc but he was nOTHING like what i envisioned. and not even in a good way 🙃
• andalin’s father was the epitome of shitty. a) from the middle ages and thinks women belong in the kitchen (or decorating a shelf as a delicate piece of china and collecting dust till the end of time); b) entrusted his daughter’s livelihood and safety to a total stranger who, let me add, was supposedly the most dangerous man in the entire country; and c) cheated his way out of paying for child support bc taking care of andalin was just cramping up his style and didn’t even have the nerve to check in with her until the very last second *facepalm* #andalindeservesbetter
there were so many routes this story could have taken but being 5—not even 3—star worthy did not end up being one of them. i rest my case.
i had a lot of high hopes for this one but alas i was doubly let down 😔
what i found really funny was the author tried really hard to paint this ellison/dark rider character like westley from ‘the princess bride’ but ended up coming short of what they were trying to achieve. like don’t you dARE do my poor westley dirty like that.
now to the actual tea—
things i sorta liked:
• ‘the beauty and the beast’ retelling promise that i initially came in for (but after 30% it took a whole other route which dipped real fast into the zone of ‘anticlimactic’)
• the narration—only redeeming quality tbh
thinks that irked me:
• the plot, especially the backstory of this supposedly malevolent witch was second rate at best. i was expecting more ‘zapping people into frogs’ kinda action and swashbuckling adventure but no
• the romance storyline was mediocre and the level of cheese was astronomical. if it’s not on my pizza or in my sandwiches, then cheese should not be wasted like that. *repeat it with me*
• if i didn’t already mention this, the villains in this story ie mr crow (aka gaston reincarnated as mr collins) and the wicked witch of disappointment island
• the cheap shot taken by the author by revealing that the wicked witch of disappointment island (and co.) were related to andalin. say wHAT
• what really confused me the most was this whole time, ellison aka the so called dark rider’s character was meant to be this formidable impenetrable kylo ren-esque antihero archetype with a kickass redemption arc but he was nOTHING like what i envisioned. and not even in a good way 🙃
• andalin’s father was the epitome of shitty. a) from the middle ages and thinks women belong in the kitchen (or decorating a shelf as a delicate piece of china and collecting dust till the end of time); b) entrusted his daughter’s livelihood and safety to a total stranger who, let me add, was supposedly the most dangerous man in the entire country; and c) cheated his way out of paying for child support bc taking care of andalin was just cramping up his style and didn’t even have the nerve to check in with her until the very last second *facepalm* #andalindeservesbetter
there were so many routes this story could have taken but being 5—not even 3—star worthy did not end up being one of them. i rest my case.
December 15, 2020
Picture me twirling in a dizzying happy dance of Regency Romance elation until, overcome by the exquisiteness of it all, I gracefully swoon onto my fainting couch. That's what The Masked Baron has done to me. My toes might never uncurl and I'm not sure if I'll unswoon before Christmas because...that masked baron...oh mmmmmmyyyyyyyyyy!!!!!!!! Thud!!!!!
Eeeeepppp, eeeeepppppp, eeeeeeeeppppp!!!! A fairy tale retelling of Beauty and the Beast -- and this is my all time favourite rendition...ever! And that's saying something because I do love a good B&B retelling. Walker has brought a freshness to the age old story but there are enough similarities (especially to the Disney version) that kept me squealing with delight as I made the connections. So many wonderful nuances that will keep me returning to this fantastical tale again and again.
And there's a lovely redemptive/reconciliation thread woven throughout that brought even more depth to the story. Simply stunning!
I enjoyed listening to the audible edition narrated by Noah Wall who is fast becoming one of my favourite narrators. She delivers a lively, captivating performance that kept me in compulsive listening mode right to the very end. Happy, happy sigh.
Eeeeepppp, eeeeepppppp, eeeeeeeeppppp!!!! A fairy tale retelling of Beauty and the Beast -- and this is my all time favourite rendition...ever! And that's saying something because I do love a good B&B retelling. Walker has brought a freshness to the age old story but there are enough similarities (especially to the Disney version) that kept me squealing with delight as I made the connections. So many wonderful nuances that will keep me returning to this fantastical tale again and again.
And there's a lovely redemptive/reconciliation thread woven throughout that brought even more depth to the story. Simply stunning!
I enjoyed listening to the audible edition narrated by Noah Wall who is fast becoming one of my favourite narrators. She delivers a lively, captivating performance that kept me in compulsive listening mode right to the very end. Happy, happy sigh.
March 2, 2020
I’m always in the mood for a good Regency romance. And also a good fairy tale retelling. Put them together, and I’m a happy reader!
This book has a bit of a Beauty and the Beast feel to it. I loved the way the author did that without copying the story. It’s so well-written and there were parts of this one that I never would have guessed were coming. That made me happy.
Andalin is the main character. I loved her character. She was not perfect, I loved how she was able to realize that as the story progressed. Not being perfect made her seem all the more real to me.
Then there’s Ellison. I wasn’t quite sure what to think of him at the beginning. He really did seem to be a beast and the way all the stories of him related him to be. But by the end, I loved his character. Everything he did throughout the book was for the benefit of someone else. That’s really a telling feature of his character.
Make sure to take time to read this one. I LOVED it!
I was sent a copy of The Masked Baron as a gift from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
This book has a bit of a Beauty and the Beast feel to it. I loved the way the author did that without copying the story. It’s so well-written and there were parts of this one that I never would have guessed were coming. That made me happy.
Andalin is the main character. I loved her character. She was not perfect, I loved how she was able to realize that as the story progressed. Not being perfect made her seem all the more real to me.
Then there’s Ellison. I wasn’t quite sure what to think of him at the beginning. He really did seem to be a beast and the way all the stories of him related him to be. But by the end, I loved his character. Everything he did throughout the book was for the benefit of someone else. That’s really a telling feature of his character.
Make sure to take time to read this one. I LOVED it!
I was sent a copy of The Masked Baron as a gift from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
February 23, 2020
This book should come with a warning that it will keep you up past bedtime reading it! I didn’t want to put it down! It was unlike any other regency books I have read. This was similar to The Beauty and The Beast, but pretty different too. I really enjoyed it!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
April 28, 2020
Absolutely ADORED this Beauty and the Beast retelling by Anneka Walker. She does the story, and the Regency genre, real credit with her wonderful characters. Annie and Ellis are now among my absolute favorite Regency couples. There were some very moving scenes, quite a few laugh-out-loud moments, and a kiss I may have read over again just because it was so sweetly done. ;-)
January 25, 2021
I read most of it and just couldn't finish it. There were too many issues and weird things. The storyline was all over the place. There was just no reason this man should wear a mask or be called a Beast. The first kiss was one of the worst I have ever read.
Read
March 11, 2020The Masked Baron starts out with such a great setting and atmosphere, it almost came across as a gothic mystery. There were some elements of a Beauty and the Beast retelling, but the author definitely made the story her own. I was interested to find out how the mystery of the witch would unfold and who would ultimately solve it and really enjoyed seeing how the secondary cast of friends and servants rallied around the hero and heroine. (I hope the author does another story that gives Ellison's best friend a book of his own!) Unfortunately, I had a really hard time enjoying the romance in this one. "Annie" is Ellison's ward and she seems very young throughout the story. The romance with her guardian, who seems much older, just didn't work for me at all. There were also quite a few story elements that just didn't make sense and were not believable, which I think could have been solved with one more thorough edit. But I do have to say the author does a wonderful job with the mystery and the setting portion and I wouldn't mind trying another book by her.
October 2, 2020
4.5 wistfully romantic stars. This was a nice read! Likable characters, sweet romance, and even some moments of enchanting fairytale sparkle and magic.✨ I have read so many Beauty and the Beast re-tellings and they just never get old. This one was definitely different from the rest though. The regency spin on the tale was solid and enjoyable, and the beastly masked baron was likable from the beginning. It was soft, full of sweetness, and easy on the heart.
I also have to say how much I truly enjoyed the author’s writing. She promoted virtues that I love to see in characters, and wrote about them in a beautiful and intriguing way. I will definitely be back to this author for more!
I also have to say how much I truly enjoyed the author’s writing. She promoted virtues that I love to see in characters, and wrote about them in a beautiful and intriguing way. I will definitely be back to this author for more!
February 19, 2020
"The Masked Baron" by Anneka R. Walker is a first time read by this author. This story resembled a "Beauty and the Beast" genre for me, however I did enjoy the story. The characters in the story were good and at times I found myself tugging at my heart. At times, I found the heroine mannerism, i.e. subbornness very frustrating but overall the the premise of the story came to a good ending.
Overall, the description of the story drew me to wanting to read the story but was not what I was expecting. It was just an okay read and could have been better.
Thank you Netgalley and Covenant Communications for this ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
2.5-Stars
Overall, the description of the story drew me to wanting to read the story but was not what I was expecting. It was just an okay read and could have been better.
Thank you Netgalley and Covenant Communications for this ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
2.5-Stars
March 19, 2020
The Masked Baron is a delightful retelling of Beauty and the Beast set in the Regency Era. I enjoyed it and look forward to reading more from this new to me author.
June 4, 2022
A sweet story, but not much of a plot. Our MCs fall in love rather easily, problems surmounted without much effort, forgiveness without blinking, happily ever after, the end. Nice, but not fantastic. It’s a shame because the basic outline of the story was good-it had potential. But it could have been developed so much better. Dig deeper, make the characters work harder to figure out feelings, include more drama! I want to work for my happy ending!
I did love the dark brooding type that was Ellis. And the secondary characters were sweet. I’d try another book by Anneka Walker to see if this is a one off or this is just her style.
I did love the dark brooding type that was Ellis. And the secondary characters were sweet. I’d try another book by Anneka Walker to see if this is a one off or this is just her style.
March 11, 2020
3.5-4*
I love Beauty and the Beast! It's one of my favorites. And Cinderella. They take me back to my childhood when I only had like 5 movies to watch and I rewatched them a million times. One of those was Cinderella. Then when I was still really young, my mom took me to see Beauty and the Beast at the movie theater. It was beyond magical for me and I couldn't get enough. For Christmas that year my grandparents and parents and siblings all gave me B&B paraphernalia. It was the best!
This was a fun Regency spin on this beloved classic. The mystery of the Dark Rider, the Black forest and its secrets, the witch, the man after Andalin's hand in marriage, her father's fears, and the secret that the staff is continuing to protect.
It took me a little bit to get into the story but I really felt like it took off and kept my attention when Andalin started feeling settled into Ellison's home and befriending the staff as well as not feeling so lonely. The romance was slow paced as Ellison was Andalin's guardian and was trying to pursue a marriage match for her and help her to learn how to become a lady. Of course, once they start to interact more and Ellison isn't disappearing on his secret excursions into the Black Forest, the friendship between he and Andalin starts to grow and develop further. I felt like Andalin's character seemed a little young for him but the author shows their ages at one point that I didn't feel like their age difference was so big. But then again in that time period there were marriages between men and women that were a lot bigger of an age gap.
I kept anticipating the ending and trying to figure out how the author was going to tie it all together. I thought it was very creative. I wasn't expecting one part of it, although I had a similar thought but in a more round about way than what it ends up being.
I'm looking forward to more books by this author. My daughters and I loved her book, Love in Disguise. I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.
Content: Clean.
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
I love Beauty and the Beast! It's one of my favorites. And Cinderella. They take me back to my childhood when I only had like 5 movies to watch and I rewatched them a million times. One of those was Cinderella. Then when I was still really young, my mom took me to see Beauty and the Beast at the movie theater. It was beyond magical for me and I couldn't get enough. For Christmas that year my grandparents and parents and siblings all gave me B&B paraphernalia. It was the best!
This was a fun Regency spin on this beloved classic. The mystery of the Dark Rider, the Black forest and its secrets, the witch, the man after Andalin's hand in marriage, her father's fears, and the secret that the staff is continuing to protect.
It took me a little bit to get into the story but I really felt like it took off and kept my attention when Andalin started feeling settled into Ellison's home and befriending the staff as well as not feeling so lonely. The romance was slow paced as Ellison was Andalin's guardian and was trying to pursue a marriage match for her and help her to learn how to become a lady. Of course, once they start to interact more and Ellison isn't disappearing on his secret excursions into the Black Forest, the friendship between he and Andalin starts to grow and develop further. I felt like Andalin's character seemed a little young for him but the author shows their ages at one point that I didn't feel like their age difference was so big. But then again in that time period there were marriages between men and women that were a lot bigger of an age gap.
I kept anticipating the ending and trying to figure out how the author was going to tie it all together. I thought it was very creative. I wasn't expecting one part of it, although I had a similar thought but in a more round about way than what it ends up being.
I'm looking forward to more books by this author. My daughters and I loved her book, Love in Disguise. I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.
Content: Clean.
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
March 17, 2024
This was a doozy of a regency romance. I've read quite a few, and none of them have reached this level of dooziness.
I'll begin with the creepy romantic/fatherly relationship at its core. Put aside the fact that heroine is the hero's much younger ward, the relationship itself wreaked of it; if she hadn’t been his ward, there still would have been a creepy fatherly strain because of how they acted with each other. The first kiss scene is a prime example of this: Andalin tries to take off his mask while he's sleeping, but he wakes up and then kisses her out of the blue. Immediately after he SCOLDS her for her behaviour like a dad. The pattern is continued through his lectures on the pressing need for her to get a husband, as if she shouldn't expect this plan to change because kissing your ward is completely normal. But when he finally acknowledged their romantic feelings, it somehow got creepier—what with him calling her "sweet Annie" and going on about how "tempting" her curly hair was.
The "family mystery" was also a significant contributor to the dooziness. There was absolutely no reason for the household to keep from telling Andalin about what happened, and yet they refused to tell her. Knowing wouldn't have put her in any more danger, while not knowing did. It felt like a very unnatural attempt to build suspense. And that ending… I'm pretty sure it was trying to shock me, but I can't be sure as I didn't detect a single shred of sense in it, and honestly couldn't tell you what happened. I still don't get why the hero was wearing a mask the whole time (no, he doesn't have any scars or hideous deformities). It was very clear that the author thought up the mystery before its resolution.
I'll begin with the creepy romantic/fatherly relationship at its core. Put aside the fact that heroine is the hero's much younger ward, the relationship itself wreaked of it; if she hadn’t been his ward, there still would have been a creepy fatherly strain because of how they acted with each other. The first kiss scene is a prime example of this: Andalin tries to take off his mask while he's sleeping, but he wakes up and then kisses her out of the blue. Immediately after he SCOLDS her for her behaviour like a dad. The pattern is continued through his lectures on the pressing need for her to get a husband, as if she shouldn't expect this plan to change because kissing your ward is completely normal. But when he finally acknowledged their romantic feelings, it somehow got creepier—what with him calling her "sweet Annie" and going on about how "tempting" her curly hair was.
The "family mystery" was also a significant contributor to the dooziness. There was absolutely no reason for the household to keep from telling Andalin about what happened, and yet they refused to tell her. Knowing wouldn't have put her in any more danger, while not knowing did. It felt like a very unnatural attempt to build suspense. And that ending… I'm pretty sure it was trying to shock me, but I can't be sure as I didn't detect a single shred of sense in it, and honestly couldn't tell you what happened. I still don't get why the hero was wearing a mask the whole time (no, he doesn't have any scars or hideous deformities). It was very clear that the author thought up the mystery before its resolution.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2020
Romance, clean, period;
This was a clever retelling of the Beauty and the Beast story. Andalin/Annie and Ellison/Ellis (the Dark Rider)'s story is a clever re-imagining of the Beauty and the Beast story without the magical elements although they are hinted at in the novel.
My only wish for this was a bit more coherence and could have used just a bit more editing to get the story to intensify and help you engage a bit more. The premise, story line/plot, setting, characters, and all were good though, and the novel was well-done other than that bit of intensity that makes me want to re-read, savor details and race to the finish of the novel (the all-nighter kind of read).
Still a fun re-imagining, and I hope to read more by this author as she finds her voice more.
I received an ARC via NetGalley from the publisher, my opinions are my own.
This was a clever retelling of the Beauty and the Beast story. Andalin/Annie and Ellison/Ellis (the Dark Rider)'s story is a clever re-imagining of the Beauty and the Beast story without the magical elements although they are hinted at in the novel.
My only wish for this was a bit more coherence and could have used just a bit more editing to get the story to intensify and help you engage a bit more. The premise, story line/plot, setting, characters, and all were good though, and the novel was well-done other than that bit of intensity that makes me want to re-read, savor details and race to the finish of the novel (the all-nighter kind of read).
Still a fun re-imagining, and I hope to read more by this author as she finds her voice more.
I received an ARC via NetGalley from the publisher, my opinions are my own.
March 9, 2020
What a unique and captivating regency romance! The author combines elements of the classic fairy tale Beauty and the Beast with the legends of regency highwaymen and then adds her own spin on it. Her story touches on the universal themes of family, forgiveness, and healing and this adds a deeper layer to the adventure.
The book was suspenseful - full of mystery and plot twists (as well as plenty of swoon worthy moments) as the heroine tries to separate fact from fiction and discover who she can trust. I simply could not put this one down!
I received a complimentary advanced copy but am choosing to leave a review of my own opinions.
The book was suspenseful - full of mystery and plot twists (as well as plenty of swoon worthy moments) as the heroine tries to separate fact from fiction and discover who she can trust. I simply could not put this one down!
I received a complimentary advanced copy but am choosing to leave a review of my own opinions.
April 11, 2020
This is a Regency retelling of Beauty and the Beast with a little My Fair Lady thrown in and even a smidge of Rapunzel toward the end. It’s very uniquely and creatively put together. Definitely not your typical Regency romance.
My main problem with it was the tedious pacing. It was difficult to get through. The characters are good with satisfactory growth. There was some melodrama deployed during the climax, which dragged the conclusion out a bit more. I didn’t find the mystery to be very compelling. Everything is kept too vague for too long. I had to suspend disbelief to get through this story.
2.5 stars
My main problem with it was the tedious pacing. It was difficult to get through. The characters are good with satisfactory growth. There was some melodrama deployed during the climax, which dragged the conclusion out a bit more. I didn’t find the mystery to be very compelling. Everything is kept too vague for too long. I had to suspend disbelief to get through this story.
2.5 stars
February 19, 2020
The premise of this book was promising but it didn't really work for me. There was some mystery and a little romance but the characters just didn't seem to click. I found myself skipping through pages, just didn't hold my interest. I received an e-book from NetGalley in return for an unbiased review.
March 5, 2020
I must admit that I enjoyed this story and the mystery that made Ellis the way he is.
I think that as you read this book I'm hoping that you will come to know the familiarity of it.
It's one of my favorite fairy tales of all time.
The author has done a fabulous job of making this an original without copying the true story.
She definitely adds some mystery and I enjoyed that too. It's what keeps me on the edge of my seat wanting to see what happens next. She didn't disappoint.
Andalin was dealt an unfair hand in life at least in my opinion she was.
I enjoyed watching her being able to come around and into the person she's supposed to be. It took quite a bit of learning and teaching from Mrs. Lewis and a few of the other servants but it was all good.
Andalin is not a perfect character in any way. It's what I loved about her. I liked how the author made her seem real and flawed just like the rest of us are. We're all a work in progress.
Good always overcomes Evil no matter what.
I really loved the twist that the book took at one point in the story. It made me second guess myself that's for sure. It's things like that that makes me really enjoy stories like these.
Ellis is a true mystery. I think I rather like him that way. He has had a hard life as well.
Some don't think that Andalin and Ellis make a good couple but I do. Sometimes it takes a while for love to grow and getting to know each other to make something work. Whether it's a marriage of convenience or something else entirely.
The cover of the book is certainly interesting. I love the way it tends to draw you into it. Just like a Mary Poppins deal.
I enjoyed this book and I think you will too! I highly recommend it.
My thanks goes to the author for a complimentary copy of this book and I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
I think that as you read this book I'm hoping that you will come to know the familiarity of it.
It's one of my favorite fairy tales of all time.
The author has done a fabulous job of making this an original without copying the true story.
She definitely adds some mystery and I enjoyed that too. It's what keeps me on the edge of my seat wanting to see what happens next. She didn't disappoint.
Andalin was dealt an unfair hand in life at least in my opinion she was.
I enjoyed watching her being able to come around and into the person she's supposed to be. It took quite a bit of learning and teaching from Mrs. Lewis and a few of the other servants but it was all good.
Andalin is not a perfect character in any way. It's what I loved about her. I liked how the author made her seem real and flawed just like the rest of us are. We're all a work in progress.
Good always overcomes Evil no matter what.
I really loved the twist that the book took at one point in the story. It made me second guess myself that's for sure. It's things like that that makes me really enjoy stories like these.
Ellis is a true mystery. I think I rather like him that way. He has had a hard life as well.
Some don't think that Andalin and Ellis make a good couple but I do. Sometimes it takes a while for love to grow and getting to know each other to make something work. Whether it's a marriage of convenience or something else entirely.
The cover of the book is certainly interesting. I love the way it tends to draw you into it. Just like a Mary Poppins deal.
I enjoyed this book and I think you will too! I highly recommend it.
My thanks goes to the author for a complimentary copy of this book and I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
March 6, 2020
Anneka R. Walker has written a charming and sweet Beauty and the Beast meets masked highway man story that readers will delight in. It’s filled with a fun twist on the Beauty and the Beast fairytale woven through the story, along a bit of mystery and danger, making the story engaging and enticing. Throughout the story, readers will enjoy watching the ebb and flow as the relationship between Ellis and Andalin blooms. Although Andalin is a bit whiny in the first part of the story, she does get better as it goes along. Especially as she comes to better understand Ellis. The story could have used more development, but overall was a cute and memorable read. Readers will be watching for more from this enjoyable author.
Genre: historical, romance, fairytale, mystery
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Publication date: March 2, 2020
Number of pages: 240
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, and authors, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited OR pre-ordered/purchased for review. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Genre: historical, romance, fairytale, mystery
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Publication date: March 2, 2020
Number of pages: 240
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, and authors, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited OR pre-ordered/purchased for review. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
March 5, 2020
Love! Love! Love! I loved this book. Every once in awhile I come across a book that I know I will be rereading. This is one of them. It's going to take time before I get enough of it.
This book has a "Beauty and the Beast" feel to it. It has an unwelcome manly man who wants to marry Andalin. There is the masked Baron who people fear, but is more than he seems. There is a witch and household servants that are very loyal to their master. Lastly, there is a lovely young woman who loves to read, loves to help the servants, and feels out of place in a big estate.
Just when you think you know what the book is about, Anneka R Walker adds a twist that takes it in a different direction. The things that don't make complete sense do as more of the plot is revealed.
For me, this is one of those must-read books. Particularly if you love a fairy tale retelling with a twist.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This book has a "Beauty and the Beast" feel to it. It has an unwelcome manly man who wants to marry Andalin. There is the masked Baron who people fear, but is more than he seems. There is a witch and household servants that are very loyal to their master. Lastly, there is a lovely young woman who loves to read, loves to help the servants, and feels out of place in a big estate.
Just when you think you know what the book is about, Anneka R Walker adds a twist that takes it in a different direction. The things that don't make complete sense do as more of the plot is revealed.
For me, this is one of those must-read books. Particularly if you love a fairy tale retelling with a twist.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
July 16, 2021
Love! Love! Love! I loved this book. Every once in awhile I come across a book that I know I will be rereading. This is one of them. It's going to take time before I get enough of it.
This book has a "Beauty and the Beast" feel to it. It has an unwelcome manly man who wants to marry Andalin. There is the masked Baron who people fear, but is more than he seems. There is a witch and household servants that are very loyal to their master. Lastly, there is a lovely young woman who loves to read, loves to help the servants, and feels out of place in a big estate.
Just when you think you know what the book is about, Anneka R Walker adds a twist that takes it in a different direction. The things that don't make complete sense do as more of the plot is revealed.
For me, this is one of those must-read books. Particularly if you love a fairy tale retelling with a twist.
This book has a "Beauty and the Beast" feel to it. It has an unwelcome manly man who wants to marry Andalin. There is the masked Baron who people fear, but is more than he seems. There is a witch and household servants that are very loyal to their master. Lastly, there is a lovely young woman who loves to read, loves to help the servants, and feels out of place in a big estate.
Just when you think you know what the book is about, Anneka R Walker adds a twist that takes it in a different direction. The things that don't make complete sense do as more of the plot is revealed.
For me, this is one of those must-read books. Particularly if you love a fairy tale retelling with a twist.
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