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The Masqueraders #2
The Postilion
Alternative cover edition of ASIN B08816R2DX
Duchess Benedicta de Montfort stands to inherit a fortune... if her guardian doesn't kill her first.
The only way to avoid whatever the unscrupulous man has planned is to hide until Benna comes of age. With the help of a faithful family retainer, Benna becomes Ben Piddock, a postilion seeking employment. Benna knows horses, and she's been mistaken for a tall, skinny boy all her life—so how hard can it be? Very hard, it turns out—especially when she falls in love with her devastatingly handsome employer, Jago Venable, the new Earl of Trebolton.
Jago was working as a country doctor when he inherited his family's earldom in Cornwall.
Along with the unwanted title is a bankrupt estate that's a royal mess and a raft of needy, impoverished relatives. One of the few bright spots is his new employee, Ben Piddock, a clever, dedicated, and unexpectedly witty lad—who is no lad, at all! Jago is amazed that Benna manages to hide her delicate beauty from the world while working twice as hard as any man. But as much as he admires and wants her, there's no way he can pursue a romance with his servant—no matter how bewitching. Yet beyond all reason, and despite his best intentions, he can't seem to stay away.
It's clear they were never meant to be together, and yet none of that matters when they're in each other's arms. Is there even a possibility of a happily ever after—or will the caprices of fate conspire to keep the two lovers apart?
Duchess Benedicta de Montfort stands to inherit a fortune... if her guardian doesn't kill her first.
The only way to avoid whatever the unscrupulous man has planned is to hide until Benna comes of age. With the help of a faithful family retainer, Benna becomes Ben Piddock, a postilion seeking employment. Benna knows horses, and she's been mistaken for a tall, skinny boy all her life—so how hard can it be? Very hard, it turns out—especially when she falls in love with her devastatingly handsome employer, Jago Venable, the new Earl of Trebolton.
Jago was working as a country doctor when he inherited his family's earldom in Cornwall.
Along with the unwanted title is a bankrupt estate that's a royal mess and a raft of needy, impoverished relatives. One of the few bright spots is his new employee, Ben Piddock, a clever, dedicated, and unexpectedly witty lad—who is no lad, at all! Jago is amazed that Benna manages to hide her delicate beauty from the world while working twice as hard as any man. But as much as he admires and wants her, there's no way he can pursue a romance with his servant—no matter how bewitching. Yet beyond all reason, and despite his best intentions, he can't seem to stay away.
It's clear they were never meant to be together, and yet none of that matters when they're in each other's arms. Is there even a possibility of a happily ever after—or will the caprices of fate conspire to keep the two lovers apart?
355 pages, ebook
First published March 23, 2021
497 people are currently reading
368 people want to read
About the author
S.M. LaViolette
37 books623 followersWho is S.M. LaViolette?
S.M. (that’s short for Shantal Marie) writes super spicy historical romance and historical erotic romance. S.M. likes to write about heroes and heroines who don't fit the mold--that means heroes who aren't always dukes and heroines who aren't always virgins.
People have described S.M.'s style as dark, angsty, and dryly witty.
S.M. also writes historical romance under the pen name Minerva Spencer, and historical mystery under S.M. Goodwin.
S.M. has been a criminal prosecutor, college history teacher, B&B operator, dock worker, ice cream manufacturer, reader for the blind, motel maid, and bounty hunter.
Okay, so the part about being a bounty hunter is a lie.
S.M. does, however, know how to hypnotize a Dungeness crab, sew her own Regency Era clothing, knit a frog hat, juggle, rebuild a 1959 American Rambler, and gain control of Asia (and hold on to it) in the game of RISK.
S.M. (that’s short for Shantal Marie) writes super spicy historical romance and historical erotic romance. S.M. likes to write about heroes and heroines who don't fit the mold--that means heroes who aren't always dukes and heroines who aren't always virgins.
People have described S.M.'s style as dark, angsty, and dryly witty.
S.M. also writes historical romance under the pen name Minerva Spencer, and historical mystery under S.M. Goodwin.
S.M. has been a criminal prosecutor, college history teacher, B&B operator, dock worker, ice cream manufacturer, reader for the blind, motel maid, and bounty hunter.
Okay, so the part about being a bounty hunter is a lie.
S.M. does, however, know how to hypnotize a Dungeness crab, sew her own Regency Era clothing, knit a frog hat, juggle, rebuild a 1959 American Rambler, and gain control of Asia (and hold on to it) in the game of RISK.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
February 13, 2025
I have read all 3 books in the series but not in order. The author has become hit or miss for me and this one was just ok. I enjoyed the start of the book even though it has dual timelines. Benna dressing as a man makes sense at the beginning but people begin to notice later in the book that she is a woman. Brenna has to be one of the unluckiest heroines that I have read about in quite a while as she kind of just stumbles through life waiting till she is 25. I never could understand the attraction between the main characters of Brenna and Jago. A card shark that Brenna lived with named Geoff ate up a chunk of the story. BUT that is not the main romance even though a large portion of the book is written about him. Nothing about the book said Regency to me. The book ended up being a fun fast read.
March 28, 2021
This was a really weird book for a historical romance. REALLY WEIRD.
Spoilers:
- The female MC pretends to be a boy for six years or so (not a new trope) but during that time she has an explicitly shown sexual relationship with her quasi-employer (who knows she is a girl), and that person is NOT the love interest of the story. Also, this person is way more interesting than the love interest.
- BOTH the female and male MCs have family members that do very illegal stuff though both of them come from titled families.
- The male MC is described as very traditionally handsome but the female MC is very tall and thin and can pass for a teenage boy and also has a prominent nose and deep voice. She is also very dominant in bed. It’s not a typical dynamic between the two of them for a historical romance.
- The chapters go back and forth between the female MC’s current situation and the six years she spent directly prior to that. But at one point in a “past” chapter it ends with a gruesome scene () and then the beginning of the very next scene starts with the female and male MCs getting physical romantically! It was really disturbing and not sexy at all given what I just read!
Despite all that I still kind of liked it at times? Thus with the 3 star rating.
Spoilers:
- The female MC pretends to be a boy for six years or so (not a new trope) but during that time she has an explicitly shown sexual relationship with her quasi-employer (who knows she is a girl), and that person is NOT the love interest of the story. Also, this person is way more interesting than the love interest.
- BOTH the female and male MCs have family members that do very illegal stuff though both of them come from titled families.
- The male MC is described as very traditionally handsome but the female MC is very tall and thin and can pass for a teenage boy and also has a prominent nose and deep voice. She is also very dominant in bed. It’s not a typical dynamic between the two of them for a historical romance.
- The chapters go back and forth between the female MC’s current situation and the six years she spent directly prior to that. But at one point in a “past” chapter it ends with a gruesome scene () and then the beginning of the very next scene starts with the female and male MCs getting physical romantically! It was really disturbing and not sexy at all given what I just read!
Despite all that I still kind of liked it at times? Thus with the 3 star rating.
March 25, 2021
★・・・3.5 Stars・・・★
.⋆｡⋆☂˚｡⋆ INTRO ⋆｡˚☁˚｡⋆.
Huh. . . that was. . . nice?
I - I don't know how to feel, gah, I'm so conflicted. At this point I've read about four books by Minerva Spencer and of those four I've only finished two. I've come to realize that MINERVA SPENCER as an author - at least for me - is very hit or miss. For example, I adored book one in this series, The Footman . That book had an intoxicating blend of enemies-to-lovers, second-chance romance, and served us some very excellent groveling from the hero. That book shocked me because before that I'd had. . . mixed feelings about the other two MINERVA SPENCER books I had previously read. Thus, The Postilion is a book I have been eagerly anticipating all year. Which begs the question, how'd it go? Hm, well, THE POSTILION was fine and I had a nice time reading it, BUT, there was definitely something. . . missing.
.⋆｡⋆☂˚｡⋆ PLOT ⋆｡˚☁˚｡⋆.
Hmm, in a word, convoluted as f*ck. Duchess Benedicta "Benna" de Montfort is on the run. After the mysterious death of her older brother her guardianship went to her nefarious cousin Michael. After overhearing his dastardly plot to either marry or kill her - it was never very clear - she runs away. To survive Benna hides her identity and becomes Ben. Fast forward six years and Benna is now working as the stable master for Jago Venable, the new Earl of Trebolton. When Jago discovers Benna's true identity he becomes smitten. However, as Benna well knows, the past does not always stay buried. . .
.⋆｡⋆☂˚｡⋆ CHARACTERS ⋆｡˚☁˚｡⋆.
-ˏ͛⑅ Benna ⑅ˏ͛-
I had a very hard time pining down Benna as a character. On the one had she was this bold, strong, brave as hell, hard-working, and sexually liberated individual. Yet on the other hand she was shy, blended into the background, quiet, and soft-spoken. On paper she sounds like a well rounded fleshed out character. In reality I had a hard time bringing together the two sides of who Ben and Benna were. I respect the hell out of the journey she went on and the struggles she faced. From the age of 17 until she was 23 Benna was constantly hiding herself. That takes guts, courage, and a backbone of steel. I definitely respected her, but I had a very hard time connecting with her character.
-ˏ͛⑅ Jago ⑅ˏ͛-
Meh. He was fine. As I mentioned, I've read a few of MINERVA SPENCER'S books and I've always felt something for her heroes. Each book left me feeling extreme like or dislike and I prefer that to a resounding meh. Jago was about as interesting as a piece of cardboard. Seriously, you could have replaced him with a piece of cardboard and I don't think I would've noticed. Okay, maybe I'm being a bit harsh, but I need to feel something when it comes to my main characters. What do I know about Jago? He's a former doctor, he's now in charge of his families estate, and. . . he's thirty-seven. . .
I wanted more from Jago because I think there was a lot of potential for his character. For example, I thought MS. SPENCER was going to pull a Twelth Night and make Jago fall in love with Benna as Ben. I know this trope has its controversies but I personally enjoy it. I like the way gender bending allows women - especially women living in a time period like Benna - to express their gender in a very non-feminine way. In addition, I like how it pushes the hero to really explore his sexuality and explores the concept of falling in love regardless of gender. Basically, Jago was a bit boring and I preferred Geoff more, #sorrynotsorry.
-ˏ͛⑅ Geoff ⑅ˏ͛-
I don't think I was supposed to like Geoffrey as much as I did, but here we are. Seriously, my man was a rake, his bedroom was a revolving door, he treated Benna a bit like a trashcan at certain points, and he had a gambling problem. He's a true anti-hero and he seemed to be in the story to serve as Jago's foil. And yet, and yet, I kept hoping that he'd get his shit together and go after Benna. The relationship between Geoff and Benna was electric and oh so intriguing. See Geoff found Benna back when she first ran away from home. She ended up becoming his right hand man and they developed this interesting dynamic. They were both combative yet there was a clear undercurrent of lust and perhaps something more. I wanted Geoff's backstory and I wanted to see the way his love for Benna cut him at the knees. Alas, Geoff ends up kinda-sorta-betraying Benna. Imagine how epic the grovel could've been, imagine.
.⋆｡⋆☂˚｡⋆ THE GOOD ⋆｡˚☁˚｡⋆.
𓆝.° ｡˚ The Story ˚｡ °.𓆞
Ithink, no I know, what keeps me coming back to
S.M. LaViolette's
books are the imaginative plots each book has. Seriously, this book sounded so good. As I mentioned I love the gender-bending stories. The concept allows for great hijinks, it usually leads to an inadvertent exploration of sexuality, and it gives both leads a chance to break out of their respective gender's expectations.
THE POSTILION
had so much potential. In addition, there was a ton of intrigue mixed into this story and it could have worked. For example, the whole her ending up with Geoff could have been a story within itself instead of just flashbacks (which i'll get to in a minute). Or even watching her navigate being an upper-class female now navigating in lower/upper class male spaces. That would've been really interesting to see. OR watching Jago fall in love with Ben and grappling with what that would mean for his sexuality. Basically, I love the plot for a lot of
MINERVA SPENCER'S
books. The execution. . .ehhh.
𓆝.° ｡˚ The Flashbacks ˚｡ °.𓆞
Let it be know, I actively dislike flashbacks. They interrupt the flow of the story, I typically don't care about what's happening in them, and it takes real self restraint for me not to skip them. However, there are occasional exceptions *cough* Quid Pro Quo *cough*. I gotta say I was not expecting to love the flashbacks in THE POSTILION as much as I did. Seriously, they were great. They allowed us to get to know Geoff and Benna, we get to experience first hand what Benna's life was like before she ended up working for Jago, and did I mention Geoff was there?
.⋆｡⋆☂˚｡⋆ THE (NOT SO) GOOD ⋆｡˚☁˚｡⋆.
𓆝.° ｡˚ The Romance ˚｡ °.𓆞
I touched on it above but yeah the biggest miss for me in this story was the romance. I didn't feel a true connection between Jago and Benna. Instead I felt that connection between Geoff and Benna. . . whoops. I'm almost 99% sure that was not MS. SPENCER'S intention so. . . my bad? Personally, I found the love between Jago and Benna to be to very insta-love and it came a bit out of nowhere. For example, why does Jago like Benna? Is it because they played chess together?! Why does Benna like Jago? Is it because he's nice. . . w h a t - p a s s i o n. There was so much time spent developing something between Benna and Geoff that by the time I realized I was supposed to be rooting for Jago it was to late. I mean for goodness sake the first on page sex scene was between Benna and Geoff. Ultimately, the romance fell flat and due to it being an historical-romance the book as a whole fell flat. I mean if you can't deliver on the romance what's left? The convoluted plot? which speaking of. . .
𓆝.° ｡˚The Convoluted Plot ˚｡ °.𓆞
What the f*ck was going on with the plot? Seriously, someone please explain it to me because it was a lot. There was drama happening with Benna, there was a bunch of drama happening with Jago, there was a f*ck ton of drama happening with Jago's family, there was Geoff, there was Ria, and there were a lot of secret letters. so. many. secret. letters. By the end of the book the plot was doing, the most, and I think there just didn't need to be so much drama. Oh and it all gets summed up very quickly and nice. Like what? Seriously, that's it?! Come on now.
.⋆｡⋆☂˚｡⋆ CONCLUDING THOUGHTS ⋆｡˚☁˚｡⋆.
Overall, I had a nice time reading THE POSTILION . The story was such an intriguing and fun concept, the romance between Geoff and Benna was compelling, and I always enjoy coming back to THE MASQUERADERS series. I think where the book fell a bit flat for me was in the execution of the romance. I just could not get invested in the romance and instead got invested in the romance between the obvious antagonist and heroine. . . again i say whoops. Ultimately, I still recommend this book and series. MINERVA SPENCER always has great concepts for her books and when they work, they work. Here's hoping I like book 3 as much as I liked book 1. A girl can dream.
“What you fail to understand, my lord, is that you were not taking anything. What I was giving is mine alone to give.”
.⋆｡⋆☂˚｡⋆ INTRO ⋆｡˚☁˚｡⋆.
Huh. . . that was. . . nice?
♥(。ᅌ ω ᅌ。)
I - I don't know how to feel, gah, I'm so conflicted. At this point I've read about four books by Minerva Spencer and of those four I've only finished two. I've come to realize that MINERVA SPENCER as an author - at least for me - is very hit or miss. For example, I adored book one in this series, The Footman . That book had an intoxicating blend of enemies-to-lovers, second-chance romance, and served us some very excellent groveling from the hero. That book shocked me because before that I'd had. . . mixed feelings about the other two MINERVA SPENCER books I had previously read. Thus, The Postilion is a book I have been eagerly anticipating all year. Which begs the question, how'd it go? Hm, well, THE POSTILION was fine and I had a nice time reading it, BUT, there was definitely something. . . missing.
.⋆｡⋆☂˚｡⋆ PLOT ⋆｡˚☁˚｡⋆.
Hmm, in a word, convoluted as f*ck. Duchess Benedicta "Benna" de Montfort is on the run. After the mysterious death of her older brother her guardianship went to her nefarious cousin Michael. After overhearing his dastardly plot to either marry or kill her - it was never very clear - she runs away. To survive Benna hides her identity and becomes Ben. Fast forward six years and Benna is now working as the stable master for Jago Venable, the new Earl of Trebolton. When Jago discovers Benna's true identity he becomes smitten. However, as Benna well knows, the past does not always stay buried. . .
.⋆｡⋆☂˚｡⋆ CHARACTERS ⋆｡˚☁˚｡⋆.
-ˏ͛⑅ Benna ⑅ˏ͛-
How often, especially during those early months, had the enormity of what lay before her threatened to crush her? How many times, in the depths of despair, had she considered taking an easier way out of her troubles?
I had a very hard time pining down Benna as a character. On the one had she was this bold, strong, brave as hell, hard-working, and sexually liberated individual. Yet on the other hand she was shy, blended into the background, quiet, and soft-spoken. On paper she sounds like a well rounded fleshed out character. In reality I had a hard time bringing together the two sides of who Ben and Benna were. I respect the hell out of the journey she went on and the struggles she faced. From the age of 17 until she was 23 Benna was constantly hiding herself. That takes guts, courage, and a backbone of steel. I definitely respected her, but I had a very hard time connecting with her character.
-ˏ͛⑅ Jago ⑅ˏ͛-
“Some of what I told you is true, my lord. I always have preferred horses to people.”
“I hope you like some people better than horses.”
“Are you … flirting with me, sir?” He chuckled.
“If you have to ask then I’m doing a dreadful job of it.”
Meh. He was fine. As I mentioned, I've read a few of MINERVA SPENCER'S books and I've always felt something for her heroes. Each book left me feeling extreme like or dislike and I prefer that to a resounding meh. Jago was about as interesting as a piece of cardboard. Seriously, you could have replaced him with a piece of cardboard and I don't think I would've noticed. Okay, maybe I'm being a bit harsh, but I need to feel something when it comes to my main characters. What do I know about Jago? He's a former doctor, he's now in charge of his families estate, and. . . he's thirty-seven. . .
𐐪𐑂 ┐(￣ー￣)┌ 𐐪𐑂
I wanted more from Jago because I think there was a lot of potential for his character. For example, I thought MS. SPENCER was going to pull a Twelth Night and make Jago fall in love with Benna as Ben. I know this trope has its controversies but I personally enjoy it. I like the way gender bending allows women - especially women living in a time period like Benna - to express their gender in a very non-feminine way. In addition, I like how it pushes the hero to really explore his sexuality and explores the concept of falling in love regardless of gender. Basically, Jago was a bit boring and I preferred Geoff more, #sorrynotsorry.
-ˏ͛⑅ Geoff ⑅ˏ͛-
"Please, Benna. I—I—” His expression had been one of pure anguish. “I love you.” He’d said the words with quiet, desperation.
“I hope that’s true, Geoff. Because you deserve to suffer.”
“You don’t have to marry me—I don’t care if you ever claim your inheritance. I just … I want you with me, Benna. Wasn’t our life together good?”
I don't think I was supposed to like Geoffrey as much as I did, but here we are. Seriously, my man was a rake, his bedroom was a revolving door, he treated Benna a bit like a trashcan at certain points, and he had a gambling problem. He's a true anti-hero and he seemed to be in the story to serve as Jago's foil. And yet, and yet, I kept hoping that he'd get his shit together and go after Benna. The relationship between Geoff and Benna was electric and oh so intriguing. See Geoff found Benna back when she first ran away from home. She ended up becoming his right hand man and they developed this interesting dynamic. They were both combative yet there was a clear undercurrent of lust and perhaps something more. I wanted Geoff's backstory and I wanted to see the way his love for Benna cut him at the knees. Alas, Geoff ends up kinda-sorta-betraying Benna. Imagine how epic the grovel could've been, imagine.
.⋆｡⋆☂˚｡⋆ THE GOOD ⋆｡˚☁˚｡⋆.
𓆝.° ｡˚ The Story ˚｡ °.𓆞
I
𓆝.° ｡˚ The Flashbacks ˚｡ °.𓆞
Let it be know, I actively dislike flashbacks. They interrupt the flow of the story, I typically don't care about what's happening in them, and it takes real self restraint for me not to skip them. However, there are occasional exceptions *cough* Quid Pro Quo *cough*. I gotta say I was not expecting to love the flashbacks in THE POSTILION as much as I did. Seriously, they were great. They allowed us to get to know Geoff and Benna, we get to experience first hand what Benna's life was like before she ended up working for Jago, and did I mention Geoff was there?
.⋆｡⋆☂˚｡⋆ THE (NOT SO) GOOD ⋆｡˚☁˚｡⋆.
𓆝.° ｡˚ The Romance ˚｡ °.𓆞
I touched on it above but yeah the biggest miss for me in this story was the romance. I didn't feel a true connection between Jago and Benna. Instead I felt that connection between Geoff and Benna. . . whoops. I'm almost 99% sure that was not MS. SPENCER'S intention so. . . my bad? Personally, I found the love between Jago and Benna to be to very insta-love and it came a bit out of nowhere. For example, why does Jago like Benna? Is it because they played chess together?! Why does Benna like Jago? Is it because he's nice. . . w h a t - p a s s i o n. There was so much time spent developing something between Benna and Geoff that by the time I realized I was supposed to be rooting for Jago it was to late. I mean for goodness sake the first on page sex scene was between Benna and Geoff. Ultimately, the romance fell flat and due to it being an historical-romance the book as a whole fell flat. I mean if you can't deliver on the romance what's left? The convoluted plot? which speaking of. . .
𓆝.° ｡˚The Convoluted Plot ˚｡ °.𓆞
What the f*ck was going on with the plot? Seriously, someone please explain it to me because it was a lot. There was drama happening with Benna, there was a bunch of drama happening with Jago, there was a f*ck ton of drama happening with Jago's family, there was Geoff, there was Ria, and there were a lot of secret letters. so. many. secret. letters. By the end of the book the plot was doing, the most, and I think there just didn't need to be so much drama. Oh and it all gets summed up very quickly and nice. Like what? Seriously, that's it?! Come on now.
.⋆｡⋆☂˚｡⋆ CONCLUDING THOUGHTS ⋆｡˚☁˚｡⋆.
Overall, I had a nice time reading THE POSTILION . The story was such an intriguing and fun concept, the romance between Geoff and Benna was compelling, and I always enjoy coming back to THE MASQUERADERS series. I think where the book fell a bit flat for me was in the execution of the romance. I just could not get invested in the romance and instead got invested in the romance between the obvious antagonist and heroine. . . again i say whoops. Ultimately, I still recommend this book and series. MINERVA SPENCER always has great concepts for her books and when they work, they work. Here's hoping I like book 3 as much as I liked book 1. A girl can dream.
February 27, 2023
The romance was lacking. Half the chapters were flashbacks, which worked for the story, I guess.
I feel that this author’s books are unnecessarily long.
Warning: There are on-page sex scenes of the heroine with her first lover during the flashbacks.
I feel that this author’s books are unnecessarily long.
Warning: There are on-page sex scenes of the heroine with her first lover during the flashbacks.
April 18, 2023
This was a fingernail biter at times, because you never knew where Benna was going to land into trouble. There were always so many sharks circling her. She kept her head though and did what she had to do and I really liked her. MS's romances have a harder and a bit more darker...dare I say sinister appeal then other regencies with the heroine in peril. Hence the fingernail biting. It was a good, tight read and MS was sneaky because she would take us take back in time in a chapter playing out Benna's backstory bit by bit and then she would leave us hanging with Benna over a barrel full of snapping turtles and the next chapter with her in fine form no worse for wear. I would have to grit my teeth to get to the next part of the backstory, where again we would be hanging over the precipice with Benna and the next current time chapter she would be eating an apple with a sly look wondering what we were so upset about it....she had this! It was a good read and I can't wait for my man John Fielding to get his story. Think of a Regency Joker, but with big shoulders and no sense of humor....AT. ALL. You could say he's a Killa! :-)
March 16, 2021
This book kept me on the edge of my seat all the way to the end! I loved how the story would unfold with flashbacks, chapter by chapter. Benna and Jago's story is very unique in the way that their relationship grows and develops, and yet the love underneath it all is very true and familiar. I think that this story may resonate with many today in some ways. Another great book by Ms. Spencer!
** I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this book in return for an honest review. **
** I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this book in return for an honest review. **
dnf
September 19, 2025I started reading Postilion because it was the love story of the good looking but boring doctor from The Footman and I wanted HEA story for him.
However…
I am DNF ing it 69% in because they are about have sex and I don’t think I can stand it.
I don’t understand why these two people like each other then the author and also me thought it would be good idea to hook up postilion with an earl.
But neither of them have any personality.
The most interesting character is Benna’s previous lover called Jeffrey who might/might not be dead.
Now as I am writing it I want to know how she comes back to being a duchess …
Might/might not update later.
However…
I am DNF ing it 69% in because they are about have sex and I don’t think I can stand it.
I don’t understand why these two people like each other then the author and also me thought it would be good idea to hook up postilion with an earl.
But neither of them have any personality.
The most interesting character is Benna’s previous lover called Jeffrey who might/might not be dead.
Now as I am writing it I want to know how she comes back to being a duchess …
Might/might not update later.
February 28, 2023
A well written, very involved, dramatic, slow burn Historical romance. This book is quite long, but very interesting. I felt the historical details and language were good and S.M. La Violette, (aka Minerva Spencer), knows how to write a great story. When the romance happens, it is steamy and erotic in flavor. There are flashbacks, so a love interest from the heroine's past is also featured as her story is told. This isn't a lighthearted read by any means. The couple from the previous book appear as well, and whilst their story isn't revealed in any detail, it's probably best to read the books in order for zero spoilers. 4.5 stars.
March 24, 2021
A complex, complicated journey of a young heiress forced to live as a lad in fear of her life over a span of many years. One of hardship and despair, she survives by her wits and hard work. Trust is one thing she's given too many times only to be betrayed. One compassionate man works his way into her heart and loves her for who she truly is. Blackmail, murder and kidnapping all play a part in her story.
Spencer creates multiple characters that play an important role in developing the story. Told in flashback and present time, it builds to a climactic conclusion.
A must read for your TBR.
Explicit sexual encounters.
Spencer creates multiple characters that play an important role in developing the story. Told in flashback and present time, it builds to a climactic conclusion.
A must read for your TBR.
Explicit sexual encounters.
April 17, 2021
Half of the book is about the story of the heroine with a man she is lusting after but who’s not the hero. In this first half the heroine and hero have a platonic relationship. It was disappointing for me. I didn’t like this woman’s personality and reactions – even her name was irritating, it got on my nerves each time I read "Benna." Doctor Jago Venable, now Lord Trebolton, deserves a better heroine. I had admired him in book 1 of the series, which is a must-read.
January 2, 2026
I am really enjoying the Masquerades series from Minerva Spencer! I will admit though that I a mood reader and often reads series installments out of order, so I have already read the Bastard. Nonetheless this did not dull my enjoyment of this one.
The main characters were fantastic - Jago is a great noble, responsible MC, who is a reformed calIous youth, which adds some color. I adored Benna’s strength and gumption. It was also great to see other familiar characters like John Fielding and Stephen Worth.
Like many of Minerva Spencer’s stories this borders somewhat on gothic story, so certain gory elements, as well as a degree of disbelief suspension is to be expected. If you don’t let this bother you, the story is stellar with the only minor note of the instalove on Jago’s part that would have fit easier with the story if it was just a bit less sudden.
Onwards to the first book in the series!
The main characters were fantastic - Jago is a great noble, responsible MC, who is a reformed calIous youth, which adds some color. I adored Benna’s strength and gumption. It was also great to see other familiar characters like John Fielding and Stephen Worth.
Like many of Minerva Spencer’s stories this borders somewhat on gothic story, so certain gory elements, as well as a degree of disbelief suspension is to be expected. If you don’t let this bother you, the story is stellar with the only minor note of the instalove on Jago’s part that would have fit easier with the story if it was just a bit less sudden.
Onwards to the first book in the series!
March 26, 2021
Benna is a duchess in disguise as a postilion (a "Horse Boy," in 2021 speak), at Jago's Cornwall estate. She's tall and skinny enough to pass as a convincing boy, but she never cleans her fake glasses and ultimately that's the giveaway. (As a person with Disgusting Glasses, I felt seen.)
Jago kind of felt like a non-entity through a lot of this book (uh... he's handsome?), which was totally fine because Benna has more than enough personality for two people. She's good with horses! She's great at chess! She's horny and a little bit rude! She will never clean her glasses.
Jago kind of felt like a non-entity through a lot of this book (uh... he's handsome?), which was totally fine because Benna has more than enough personality for two people. She's good with horses! She's great at chess! She's horny and a little bit rude! She will never clean her glasses.
March 24, 2021
Great read...
March 24, 2021
One of a kind heroine 🦸🏻♀️
I’m not sure how best to write a review for this book. I loved every page and tried hard not to rush. I did not want to miss any of the intrigue filled romance between the fleeing Duchess in disguise as a stable master (amongst other things) and the new Doctor Earl( yup he is doc now managing a broken down earldom).
Due to the treachery of a cousin, Benna, flees her home and along the way loses her heart temporarily to Geoffroy a conman of sorts and eventually ends up as a Postillion for Stephen Worth from book 1 (if you are yet to read the book, go grab it, you will not be disappointed) and is soon sent to work at the run down stables of the Earl, who has recently taken up the reins after his brother’s death.
The story of Brenna, is narrated in flashback interspersed with the present. One gets the jist that she just manages to survive by sheer guts and determination and without giving away too much, she faces these years in the hope that soon she will find justice.
There is also the mystery surrounding the Earldom of Trebolton, when Jago Venable takes over after the death of his older brother Caden. He has a crumbling estate, mired in debt and an addict Sister-in-law and 2 teenage nieces. Added to the mix is a former fiendish girlfriend now widowed and chasing Jago to become his countess. The devious happenings of all these characters reveal events that started 18 years ago when Jago flees the home and eventually becomes a doctor.
Ms. S M Laviolette spins a wonderful tale full of intrigue and romance which is not the offbeat typical historical narrative. There is a lot going on, however, the events only involves these few characters and therefore the story does not loose the momentum.
All ends well, but what leads to the ending is loaded, and after solving a few puzzling events, the final denouement does take the reader by surprise. No loose ends.
Grab a coffee cake and beer and enjoy the book :)
I’m not sure how best to write a review for this book. I loved every page and tried hard not to rush. I did not want to miss any of the intrigue filled romance between the fleeing Duchess in disguise as a stable master (amongst other things) and the new Doctor Earl( yup he is doc now managing a broken down earldom).
Due to the treachery of a cousin, Benna, flees her home and along the way loses her heart temporarily to Geoffroy a conman of sorts and eventually ends up as a Postillion for Stephen Worth from book 1 (if you are yet to read the book, go grab it, you will not be disappointed) and is soon sent to work at the run down stables of the Earl, who has recently taken up the reins after his brother’s death.
The story of Brenna, is narrated in flashback interspersed with the present. One gets the jist that she just manages to survive by sheer guts and determination and without giving away too much, she faces these years in the hope that soon she will find justice.
There is also the mystery surrounding the Earldom of Trebolton, when Jago Venable takes over after the death of his older brother Caden. He has a crumbling estate, mired in debt and an addict Sister-in-law and 2 teenage nieces. Added to the mix is a former fiendish girlfriend now widowed and chasing Jago to become his countess. The devious happenings of all these characters reveal events that started 18 years ago when Jago flees the home and eventually becomes a doctor.
Ms. S M Laviolette spins a wonderful tale full of intrigue and romance which is not the offbeat typical historical narrative. There is a lot going on, however, the events only involves these few characters and therefore the story does not loose the momentum.
All ends well, but what leads to the ending is loaded, and after solving a few puzzling events, the final denouement does take the reader by surprise. No loose ends.
Grab a coffee cake and beer and enjoy the book :)
September 24, 2021
The book was very interesting and that’s why I gaveit 3 stars. However the romantic connection between the h and H was quite non existent imo. The h spends 6 years on the run and has a relationship with another man.. the book is filled with their sexual encounters. It just didn’t do it for me. The H is described as an honest man and all Benna does is lie to him. Every other chapter flipped back and forth between past and present, and all of them were filled with sex scenes between her and the other guy! The whole tone of the novel didn’t seem to fit 1817!
The h just wasn’t appealing to me.
The h just wasn’t appealing to me.
April 27, 2025
Couldn’t put it down! Lord have mercy! What a story! I’m gobsmacked. There’s no other word for it. Just read it. But be prepared, this is the dark side of Minerva Spencer, and she doesn’t hold back. This is not for the faint of heart, or even the average romance reader. This is heavy stuff. And I loved it!
May 18, 2023
Okay, give me a great disguise romance any day!
This trip is so easy to take too far and make it unbelievable but this was very well done -a dn not drawn out so that the focus was taken away from the love story.
This trip is so easy to take too far and make it unbelievable but this was very well done -a dn not drawn out so that the focus was taken away from the love story.
June 10, 2023
Duchess has to hide
4.5 stars
Very complicated but worthwhile story. I didn't spot the twist in the tale. Definitely worth a read. On to the next in the series
4.5 stars
Very complicated but worthwhile story. I didn't spot the twist in the tale. Definitely worth a read. On to the next in the series
December 9, 2023
I don’t like a hidden identity trope, especially a woman disguised as a man. But I enjoyed the book and feel that it worked so well!!
This book was a bit more dark, with everything that happens to the heroine. But I enjoyed the book.
This book was a bit more dark, with everything that happens to the heroine. But I enjoyed the book.
December 28, 2023
I really enjoyed this book! Great characters and great pacing up until the end. It did feel like they skipped over a lot of important stuff and the resolution to a lot of plot lines with a time lapse and brief summary of what happened, so I wish more of that would have played out on-page.
Also…..is it horrible that I really want a book about Geoffrey? And was kind of hoping he and Benna would end up together?
Also…..is it horrible that I really want a book about Geoffrey? And was kind of hoping he and Benna would end up together?
April 17, 2021
I can’t give it 5 stars—probably more a solid 3-1/2. Why? While I liked aspects of the story, there were a LOT of things introduced and/or going on, and not all of them ended up really getting their due. And, unfortunately, the most interesting character in the book was not Benna (h) or Jago (H), but probably Geoff, who only exists in flashbacks and once the flashbacks end (kinda suddenly?), we’re not sure he’s even still alive until Benna offhandedly says he is. Benna is described so that at least in my imagination, she’s not attractive at all. Apparently she has a big nose and is unfeminine enough to pass as a boy for 6 YEARS, even under close scrutiny. Jago was a sympathetic character in the Footman, but not all that interesting, and he doesn’t really become more interesting here. He’s a nice guy. That’s about it.
I also felt like the author had a deadline or something because it went on and on, then suddenly everything was resolved. Given how many things were going on, that wasn’t as successful as it could have been.
The Footman was a better book. Was this one bad? No, but it wasn’t as good. Will I read the next one? Probably, because I am curious about John Fielding. The author says at the end she’s not sure if this is a 3 or 4 book series. I vote for 4–give Geoff a story. He had the most potential of anyone in this book and kind of just got dropped along the way.
I also felt like the author had a deadline or something because it went on and on, then suddenly everything was resolved. Given how many things were going on, that wasn’t as successful as it could have been.
The Footman was a better book. Was this one bad? No, but it wasn’t as good. Will I read the next one? Probably, because I am curious about John Fielding. The author says at the end she’s not sure if this is a 3 or 4 book series. I vote for 4–give Geoff a story. He had the most potential of anyone in this book and kind of just got dropped along the way.
April 2, 2021
What a fun book! The plot reminded me a bit of the Rake by Mary Jo Putney, but the weakness of that book was always the *why* behind the heroine’s masquerade. Here the stakes truly fit the actions of the MC. If I have any critique it’s that the heroine is just so much more fun and interesting than the hero, who suffers a bit from comparison with the OM. You clearly don’t want her to end up with the OM but he is such a vivid presence. I wish he could be redeemed, but suspect that would ruin him. Bravo!
June 7, 2022
Heavy dose of mystery but the romance was lacking. The past to present then past to present back n forth wasn't really easy to read and I felt a bit lukewarm overall about the love story.
October 13, 2025
I was right in thinking that this book was far more interesting and amusing to read than book 1. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. So many funny parts, and the sensual parts are very nice, I enjoyed the tension and longing between them.
It's rare for me to say this but I truly like both MCs for this book. The FMC is very interesting; she's strong, brave, have balls to take on many challenges, and so amusing (especially her inner dialogues). For the MMC, I find him so pleasant to read when he's around; his energy and character is just so likeable - honest, honorable, and understanding. I truly can't think of anything bad about his character, so he's a memorable one for me.
I laughed my ass off while reading (mainly because of the FMC ngl), so of course I couldn't put the book down and finished it within a day. I didn't expect to like it this much considering how I didn't have the same enthusiasm for Book 1, but it was worth it to spend a day to finish this.
Although I guess one thing I could care less about was the whole villain plot involving more people than the original villain - that could've honestly done without. But it still deserved 5⭐ for me!
It's rare for me to say this but I truly like both MCs for this book. The FMC is very interesting; she's strong, brave, have balls to take on many challenges, and so amusing (especially her inner dialogues). For the MMC, I find him so pleasant to read when he's around; his energy and character is just so likeable - honest, honorable, and understanding. I truly can't think of anything bad about his character, so he's a memorable one for me.
I laughed my ass off while reading (mainly because of the FMC ngl), so of course I couldn't put the book down and finished it within a day. I didn't expect to like it this much considering how I didn't have the same enthusiasm for Book 1, but it was worth it to spend a day to finish this.
Although I guess one thing I could care less about was the whole villain plot involving more people than the original villain - that could've honestly done without. But it still deserved 5⭐ for me!
January 19, 2023
This might be the best and most interesting S.M. LaViolette book I've read so far. And, as with all of them, the ending just doesn't live up to rest of it! I'm very frustrated!
I think it was a really good decision on the author's part to move back and forth in time. Because, let's be honest, Jago, while nice, is a bit of a snooze. It felt a little like we were being distracted from the weak nature of their romance, by flipping back to the time she spent with Geoff. I know I'm terrible for kind of wishing he was the hero, but there you go.
Regardless, Benna was a fantastic heroine. I loved how self assured and decisive she was, but also had completely human faults. While Jago was, again a SUPER GOOD GUY... also there. He was basically a lovely prize for her at the end of her suffering. Which fine, she deserves a hottie that loves her.
BUT, that ending. Way to phone it in. We get all this build up of these secrets and mysteries throughout everything end then it just... . Lazy.
I think it was a really good decision on the author's part to move back and forth in time. Because, let's be honest, Jago, while nice, is a bit of a snooze. It felt a little like we were being distracted from the weak nature of their romance, by flipping back to the time she spent with Geoff. I know I'm terrible for kind of wishing he was the hero, but there you go.
Regardless, Benna was a fantastic heroine. I loved how self assured and decisive she was, but also had completely human faults. While Jago was, again a SUPER GOOD GUY... also there. He was basically a lovely prize for her at the end of her suffering. Which fine, she deserves a hottie that loves her.
BUT, that ending. Way to phone it in. We get all this build up of these secrets and mysteries throughout everything end then it just... . Lazy.
December 5, 2022
Ok so this sorry didn’t quite go the way I presumed it would. But that isn’t a bad thing! One thing I have to say is that scene with Willy, OUCH! I’m a woman and that made me flinch! Not that he didn’t deserve it!
.
When you learn the true history and reasons behind Ben (Bennas) story, you can’t help but admire and respect her! She was fighting against so much! Also I love how she realised how sheltered her previous life was and didn’t wallow in self pity or continuously act like woe is me!
.
The chemistry between her and Jago was great! And there was something so mature and kinda respectful the way they acted and felt for one another. They always saw the bigger picture and the potential downfalls and didn’t try to pit it against the other.
.
Jago has got to be one of the nicest guys! Yes I know he was an idiot when he was a teen, but who wasn’t? He’s a Doctor, great friend, protector, has a moral compass, loves his nieces, fights for the underdog, is hot and wear glasses 🤤
.
When you learn the true history and reasons behind Ben (Bennas) story, you can’t help but admire and respect her! She was fighting against so much! Also I love how she realised how sheltered her previous life was and didn’t wallow in self pity or continuously act like woe is me!
.
The chemistry between her and Jago was great! And there was something so mature and kinda respectful the way they acted and felt for one another. They always saw the bigger picture and the potential downfalls and didn’t try to pit it against the other.
.
Jago has got to be one of the nicest guys! Yes I know he was an idiot when he was a teen, but who wasn’t? He’s a Doctor, great friend, protector, has a moral compass, loves his nieces, fights for the underdog, is hot and wear glasses 🤤
March 29, 2021
Hidden how long?
Benna eavesdropping on one of the despicable yet important conversation of her life led her to live as Ben! Ben aka Benna overheard Michael her new guardian plan to marry her take her inheritance as a Duchess and drug her and lock her in an insane asylum!
Benna survived. She survived robbery, postillion jobs, stable hand, valet and sometimes mistress to a man who later sold her! By the time she meets Jago the Earl who inherited debts she is afraid to trust anyone or anything! I admire her for shear grit and determination most people who have given up or not survived the horror or betrayal! She and Jago grow close but he utters the fatal words "I love you and want to marry you!" After Benna draws a knife on him what kind of future can they have? So much emotional heartbreak!!!! Outstanding!!!
Benna eavesdropping on one of the despicable yet important conversation of her life led her to live as Ben! Ben aka Benna overheard Michael her new guardian plan to marry her take her inheritance as a Duchess and drug her and lock her in an insane asylum!
Benna survived. She survived robbery, postillion jobs, stable hand, valet and sometimes mistress to a man who later sold her! By the time she meets Jago the Earl who inherited debts she is afraid to trust anyone or anything! I admire her for shear grit and determination most people who have given up or not survived the horror or betrayal! She and Jago grow close but he utters the fatal words "I love you and want to marry you!" After Benna draws a knife on him what kind of future can they have? So much emotional heartbreak!!!! Outstanding!!!
April 6, 2021
I was all set to write an amazing review but I feel that my points have already been made by others.
The main thing about this book is that the heroine has an intimate relationship with a man who is not the hero of this story. I don't think I've ever seen this before in a romance and I don't care for it much.
At the end of the book, the author comments that she has not yet determined how many books will be in the series once it is complete. So...I'm guessing that this other man would be the hero of book #4 if it is ever written.
I am very much looking forward to book #3 which features John Fielding from #1 "The Footman."
I am hoping that Benna's half-sister is able to recover from the abuse she has endured. She could meet Geoffrey and make him want to become a better man in Book #4 "The Conman." LOL
The main thing about this book is that the heroine has an intimate relationship with a man who is not the hero of this story. I don't think I've ever seen this before in a romance and I don't care for it much.
At the end of the book, the author comments that she has not yet determined how many books will be in the series once it is complete. So...I'm guessing that this other man would be the hero of book #4 if it is ever written.
I am very much looking forward to book #3 which features John Fielding from #1 "The Footman."
I am hoping that Benna's half-sister is able to recover from the abuse she has endured. She could meet Geoffrey and make him want to become a better man in Book #4 "The Conman." LOL
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2023
This really seemed like a historical fiction starring the heroine, that just happened to contain a romance and PoV chapters from her love interest. Often historical romances take turns between the two main characters, but the heroine's backstory here gave her twice the page time. It was also a bit darker than usual for HR, there's a body count, but I didn't mind it, it was just another thing leaning it toward more of a HF feel. It easily kept my attention though, had a unique plot, and I liked both main characters. The ending wasn't as strong as the rest of the book, but it didn't ruin it or anything either. I liked how their relationship developed.
Content warning:
Content warning:
May 29, 2024
🌈 Tall heroine
🌈Age Gap Romance
🌈Hidden Identity
🌈Mystery/Intrigue
🌈Slow Burn
🌈Kindle Unlimited
🌶🌶🌶 / 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
I love an unconventional heroine and Benna is certainly that. I loved the way we learned about her past through a series of flashbacks. Benna can do anything you can do, better. But she's also humble and empathetic and vulnerable.
Jago is doing his best despite having made some mistakes in the past. When he finds out his Stablemaster is really a woman, his reaction is so entertaining.
There are some real villains in this story - this author writes them very well.
The third act is packed with action and the HEA is very satisfying.
This is a lovely, steamy and interesting historical romance which I read in one sitting.
🌈Age Gap Romance
🌈Hidden Identity
🌈Mystery/Intrigue
🌈Slow Burn
🌈Kindle Unlimited
🌶🌶🌶 / 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
I love an unconventional heroine and Benna is certainly that. I loved the way we learned about her past through a series of flashbacks. Benna can do anything you can do, better. But she's also humble and empathetic and vulnerable.
Jago is doing his best despite having made some mistakes in the past. When he finds out his Stablemaster is really a woman, his reaction is so entertaining.
There are some real villains in this story - this author writes them very well.
The third act is packed with action and the HEA is very satisfying.
This is a lovely, steamy and interesting historical romance which I read in one sitting.
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