The Montesoro Legacy

Brandon Brothers #3

by Stella Riley

A dangerous step-brother … a letter from Venice … a secret key … and London’s most fashionable portraitist. Dark doings and deceptions surround an unexpected legacy ... and an even more unexpected love story.

Upon learning that his step-sister, Mariella Talbot, is the beneficiary of a surprise inheritance, Sir Jerome Farrell decides to seize it for himself.
Already struggling to thwart her step-brother’s other wicked intentions, Mariella realises two things; to claim the Montesoro legacy, Jerome must make a lengthy journey … but without a certain item in her possession, he will return empty-handed.

Successful, sought-after and contemplating marriage to a lovely, young widow, Leo Brandon’s commission to paint Charlotte Farrell, takes him to Surrey for three days. Had he known in advance how those days would re-arrange his life, he might have made the catastrophic mistake of staying in London.
Meanwhile, the agents of M Section are interested in Sir Jerome for reasons of their own … and, unlike Mariella, are less than delighted when he leaves the country.

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Historical Fiction, Fiction, Audiobook, Georgian, Regency

456 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 30, 2022

About the author

Stella Riley lives in Kent, England. She enjoys theatre, travel and playing the harpsichord.
Her award-winning 7 book Rockliffe series (recommended in The Times!) is available in audio, narrated by Alex Wyndham.
She is also the author of 6 books set in the 17th century: The Marigold Chain, A Splendid Defiance, The Black Madonna, Garland of Straw, The King's Falcon and Lords of Misrule.
All titles are available from Amazon, Kobo, Barnes & Noble and Apple.
Rockliffe Book 6 - Cadenza - is the 2019 Readers' Favourite gold medallist for Historical Romance and also the 2021 Book Excellence Awards winner in the Romance category.

Reviews

[OLT · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Stella Riley who wrote historical fiction up to but not including Rockliffe #7 and these new Brandon Brothers #1-3 was a favorite author of mine. She had complex characters, interesting plots, and lots of history to read about (especially in her Roundheads and Cavaliers series). But since 2018 or so there hasn't been one new Stella Riley book that delights me the way her old ones did, especially those from the 1980s and 1990s. That doesn't seem to be the case for other Riley fans. Her books still consistently have 5 star ratings, while I find myself handing out 3 stars to them just because it's still Stella Riley and anything less would feel unjust.

But, dang it, anyway. These beautiful, bland Brandon brothers bore my pants off, while they seem to be knocking other readers' socks off. So, maybe it's me. Perfect people are only possible in the pretend world of fiction. I don't like perfect people. Characters in books shouldn't be candidates for sainthood. They should be nuanced, complex, complicated and flawed. But not here, nope. Every single Brandon brother is handsome, charming, kind, noble, loyal, even-tempered, even able to keep his breeches buttoned under tenting circumstances, and has friends and relatives who are equally perfect.

And speaking of those friends and relatives, that would be many characters from the Rockcliffe series and newer ones from the Brandon Brothers series. We get to meet up with or hear about many of them, all of them more examples of perfect peoplehood, with everybody loving everybody and helping each other through thick and thin. So what's wrong with that? Well, nothing. It's lovely. But it's darned boring.

This is Leo Brandon's book. He's the youngest of the three brothers and is an artist coming into his own as an in-demand portraitist. Also, he's in competition for the hand of a beautiful young London widow and imagines himself to be deeply in love with her. But he has to leave her and go to Surrey, commissioned by a Sir Jerome Farrell to paint the portrait of his lovely young sister Charlotte.

In Surrey Leo also meets Mariella and Donato Talbot, step-siblings of Sir Jerome and Charlotte and the story is off and limping. Sir Jerome is found to be a total piece of work. Not at all a Perfect Person but also not at all nuanced in his evilness. Not one redeeming quality to be found in him. He has designs on his stepsister Mariella's inheritance and The Montesoro Legacy, which I shall say nothing more about, and also has no love for Donato, Mariella's autistic brother. Definitely not in the Perfect Person category.

That's the problem with Riley's new books. The characters are either Perfect People or Evil People.
No nuance. Hence, for me, not interesting to read about. Even the romance is bland and boring. You might expect a love triangle with the London widow, Mariella and Leo, but that just fizzles out in pages. You might expect some bumps on the road to love between H and h. But, not really. They just wander into love with each other with no problem. The only conflicts in the story are between the Perfect People and the Evil People.

And guess who are defeated in the end? Yep, the EP. And the takedown of the Evil Stepbrother is detailed ad tedium. There's no real suspense to any of it. Just lots of details of how it is to be done.

What did I like about the story? The love story of Leo and Donato. Leo and Donato bond beautifully in the book, united by their love of drawing and painting. Leo's infinite patience with Donato's neurodivergent ways is nicely done. Again, perhaps too perfect but I enjoyed their relationship.

[Carol Cork *Young at Heart Oldie* · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Riley continues to captivate her readers with a masterful blend of romance, drama and suspense in this final book in her Brandon Brothers trilogy featuring Leo, the youngest of the brothers.

We know from glimpses in the two previous books that Leo is handsome, charming, and a talented artist whose portraits are highly sought after by wealthy and influential clients. He is also the most easy-going of the three brothers and his life has always run smoothly. So much so, that his brother, Adam, and sister-in-law, Camilla, are worried about how he would cope if ever faced with a serious situation. However, as events in the story unfold, Leo shows a steely determination to protect those he cares for.

Mariella is such a lovely heroine. The calm, dignified way she deals with her devious step-brother, Jerome, reveals a hidden core of strength. Her overwhelming love for her brother is evident and she will to do everything in her power to protect him from Jerome’s evil plans. I like how she refuses to take advantage of Leo and proposes her own solution to their situation. Her honesty is apparent in her desire not to deceive Adam and Camilla about the nature of their engagement.

I loved how Ms. Riley developed the relationship between Leo and Mariella. Mariella soon finds herself falling hopelessly in love with Leo and who can blame her. Not only is he handsome, with a bone-melting smile, but more importantly, he’s kind, thoughtful, amusing and trustworthy.

During their sham engagement, Leo comes to appreciate Mariella’s intelligence, her strength of character and finds he enjoys her company. Her unwavering resolve to protect her brother strikes a deep cord with Leo whose own family share that same trait. The realisation that he is falling in love creeps up on him slowly…

Every moment he spent with Mariella deepened the certainty that he didn’t want to lose her and heightened the dread that he might. He wasn’t sure how it had happened or when.  Had there been one moment … or had what he felt been born of several?

One of my favourite scenes is when Leo gives Mariella a special wedding gift. It’s beautifully written and so romantic and I defy anyone not to shed a tear or two when reading it.

I admire Ms. Riley for creating such a complex character in Donato and portraying him in a realistic and sympathetic way. It was rewarding to see the bond developing between Leo and Donato, the scenes they share being some of my favourites. They also reveal how Leo’s kindness, patience and encouragement gradually draw Donato out of his shell.

”…you’ve brought him out of himself – only a little, but more than anyone else ever has.”.

Adam Brandon and his wife, Camilla, (Under a Dark Moon) play prominent roles in the story and it was lovely to see how warmly they welcomed Mariella and Donato into the family. I particularly enjoyed the scene where Camilla is more than a match for Mariella’s caustic Aunt Jane..

”Drury Lane with a viscountess and Ranelagh with a countess, no less.  What next, I wonder?  Dancing with a duke, perhaps?”
“Very likely,” said Camilla negligently.  “Also a marquis, I should think.”
Jane’s jaw dropped.

The banter between Leo and Adam also adds a nice touch humour.

There is plenty of action, danger and suspense when Leo and Adam become involved in M Section’s investigations, and Leo risks his life to protect Mariella and Donato from a vengeful Jerome, who I’m delighted to say suffers the fate of most villains.

Once again, many of the beloved characters from the Rockliffe series are on hand to aid Leo and Mariella in various ways. There is one very poignant scene where Leo reveals his painting of Sebastian, which I’m sure will resonate with those who have read his story in The Wicked Cousin

The final chapters of the book take the reader on a wonderful journey with Leo and Mariella to unlock the secret of the Montesoro Legacy. It not only provides a heartwarming finale to this story but to the trilogy as well.

Now, I’m waiting patiently to see what Ms. Riley has in store for us next.

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stella Riley has brought her (Brandon Brothers) trilogy to a stunning finale with The Montesoro Legacy and, whilst I loved Max, Adam and their wives, Leo and Mariella tip the scales as my favourite couple of the series.

Leo, the youngest of the brothers, has led a charmed life; he’s handsome and charismatic, if somewhat naive, and perhaps inclined to fall in love a little too easily. His extraordinary talent, coupled with two extremely high profile commissions, has guaranteed professional success and popularity with the ladies. The climb up the ladder of popularity has been rapid and, as the darling of society, he is now even more sought after as a portraitist to the rich and privileged. However, its all a little too much too soon, because society can be fickle and, as he discovers, if one climbs the ladder of success too quickly then the way down can be equally as fast, even when one has done no wrong.

Having discovered that public opinion can turn on a sixpence and, disappointingly, that his so called love believes the unfounded gossip surrounding him, Leo sets out to minimise the damage caused to the reputation of Mariella Montesoro Talbot. She is the lady who has unwittingly become the target of malicious gossip as the result of an innocent encounter with himself. Having learned the hard lesson that his comeliness and charm will not save him, Leo re-visits Mariella who suggests a plan to embark on a fake engagement which should save his honour and her reputation. The eventual goal is for Mariella to break the engagement, with honour to both parties restored.

Leo had ‘noticed’ Mariella with his keen artist’s eye when he had encountered her on a visit to her step-brother’s home, where he’d been invited to meet Charlotte Farrell, the subject of a portrait he had been commissioned to paint…

Leo’s eye was immediately drawn to the taller of the two, partly because of her half-veiled amusement but mostly because of her extraordinary hair. Mingled shades of the rose-gold one sometimes saw in a perfect sunrise, it would challenge any artist’s pallet…

so becoming ‘engaged’ to Mariella wasn’t too much of a hardship. And, as we discover, the two soon become friends… and more.

Mariella is a delightful character and fully deserving of the attentions of the delectable Leo, whose honour and protectiveness is soon at the forefront when he takes her and her younger brother, Donato, to London under the protection of his family. He is soon helping Mariella to uncover the treachery of her smarmy step-brother, Sir Jerome Farrell. Mariella has fought hard to keep herself and Donato safe from Jerome’s machinations. With no one to turn to, and with sinister, unexplained ‘accidents’ to her person and dark, barely veiled threats regarding Donato, she has been afraid for their safety for a long time. It’s therefore a relief to have Leo in her corner. Even now, the only reason Mariella has been able to make her escape, with Donato, to Leo’s family in London is because Jerome has gone on a wild goose chase to Venice in search of Mariella’s Italian Montesoro inheritance. But she’s no fool and has bought herself time by hiding a vital piece to the clue necessary to ‘unlock’ the inheritance. She knows she’s on borrowed time, for when he returns all hell will break loose.

There’s more to Sir Jerome Farrell than meets the eye because not only Leo, but also Adam Brandon and the agents of M Section, are investigating his participation in far more sinister activities. It’s good to see this eclectic group of people working as one again behind the scenes. The ensuing investigation and mystery is cleverly plotted and brings the story to an exciting climax with Sir Jerome Farrell getting his comeuppance in a very satisfactory manner.

There are some special moments in this book which stood out for me. Although Donato is a secondary character, he’s skilfully drawn and developed. Throughout the book he grows in stature under Leo’s patience, care and guidance, bringing a richness and fullness to his character. Initially he’s quiet and withdrawn; the only person who really ‘gets’ him is Mariella, and then only as a loving and protective older sister might… until Leo. Donato finds pleasure in his garden and loves to paint the specimens he has grown himself. Leo, recognising his exceptional skill as a botanical artist, shows him how to use other painting methods and treats him as friend and equal, with the result that Donato ‘flowers’ before our very eyes. Jerome Farrell has only ever seen him as a candidate for an asylum, and one whose inheritance he can steal, by stealth of course. However, through the eyes of lovely Leo, we see an intelligent and talented young man who deserves respect and admiration. I would love to see Donato get a book of his own.

Also, without giving too much of the plot or story away, there’s one truly beautiful and inspiring point in this story that completely took my breath away. Fans of this author’s work will know when you reach it as it’s necessary to have read The Wicked Cousin to understand the significance of what I’m talking about. I was not expecting it, and it stands out for me as a truly moving and spine tingling moment. One I returned to and read more than once.

Some of the main characters from the author's award winning (Rockliffe)series pop in as usual; it really is like having old friends to visit… especially, in this instance, Adrian (The Player) and Sebastian (The Wicked Cousin) - be still my beating heart! Was there ever such a wonderful, funny, endearing and charismatic character as Sebastian?

Ms. Riley’s always outstanding skill in character development is very evident, as is her familiar wit and humour in the way she has Leo bantering and interacting with his brothers, their love and affection for one another obvious…

’eat your cake,’ recommended Adam. ‘You’ll find it tastes better than either your foot or my fist.’

The Montesoro Legacy is a beautifully romantic, clever mystery, and a fabulous addition to Stella Riley’s catalogue of books. A perfect ending to the Brandon Brothers trilogy.

[Morgan Many Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars of Riley-esque Romping Romance

Ah, Stella Riley… How I love your books.

For anyone who reads my reviews, yes, I've been away and falling down a (seemingly endless) rabbit hole of contemporary romance (mostly M/M). But what a perfect opportunity to break that viscous cycle but for one of my favourite historical writers?

Here, we get the last installment of the Brandon Brother's series, with Leo—the young, beautiful, charismatic portraitist. In Riley's typical fashion it follows very few canons of the genres and, as seemed to be the case with the entire series, follows a different structure than either her 17th century work or the Rockliffe books. I was partially expecting something in the way of The Marigold Chain or The Black Madonna, but slightly to my disappointment—because I just love semi-treasure hunt adventure mysteries (as my Inner Archaeologist's Soul demands)—it wasn't that at all. It was more akin to maybe The Wicked Cousin (namely with regard to the romance developement, which was swift) but with lots of Adam & Camilla, M Section, and scenes with the original 18th century cast.

But just as Under a Dark Moon was totally different from A Trick of Fate, The Montesoro Legacy was its own rompy bit of fun, with there being a multitude of storylines and the romance being a quiet almost B-plot. Therefore, I stand my categorizing The Brandon Brothers being not wholly a romance series, which I entirely welcome.

Leo and Mariella were sweet and lovely. While we get to spend time with them at the very start of their acquaintance, we don't really see much of them in London as they fall in love (as Leo's attentions are elsewhere when they initially meet). But that said, they are a cute pair, and I liked that Leo didn't fight or question what was happening (as is often the case with HR heroes), and just threw himself into the idea of Mariella once it took hold. What was a departure from Riley's structure, save a few examples, we got to spend about 10% of the book with them on the marriage trip which was lovely… and steamy! Still all fade-to-black, but wonderfully refreshing. This also made up for part in the middle where Leo and Mariella take a slight backseat. But this isn't out of line with Riley's other books, so it didn't bother me. Rather, it's something readers should be mindful of.

I very much enjoyed the host of characters we got to hear from, but I loved the continued presence of Sebastian and Cassandra, and that Leo's professional and artistic triumph is achieved in connection to those two. That made me cry… no joke. Probably my favourite new character was Donato though, who I selfishly want a story from. He was on the spectrum, which felt well and sensitively portrayed. Definitely not a tokenized neurodivergent character at all, which I see in HR more often than should be acceptable.

Finally, there is a heavy emphasis on M Section business, so we spend scores and scores of time with Adam and Camilla, which I loved. I hold out hope, will the next books be a M Section series!??!

I think that, for readers who are not familiar with Riley's style and read more in the vein of say Sarah MacLean, this will not satiate their romance craving because, simply put, it isn't an Avon piece and flirts with Historical Fiction, structurally. But I always implore people to read her because there is just something about her prose and story choices that transports me to whichever period, she writes in. Moreover, her knowledge of the people and the social mores of the times leaps off the page. Her stories always feel well situated and historically authentic in a genre I increasingly feel is oversaturated in mediocrity.

The only reason I docked 0.5 stars was on account of some unfulfilled plotlines that could have upped the ante. I'd like to have heard from Grace again, for instance, and maybe liked some more mystery threaded throughout regarding the book's titled: the legacy awaiting Mariella in Venice. I think criticism that everything is a bit too perfect is well-founded, but here it didn't impeded on my enjoyement (which isn't often the case, but like I said... the prose... I'm a sucker for it). So, this is yet another delight that, even with minor misses, stands out to me.

All the same, look…. I've just finished this and I've got an hour left on Alex Wyndham's narration of The King's Falcon and I'm distraught because who knows when I'll have Stella books to read or listen to again? Oh no! I'll have to read through all her work to tie me over. What a pity.

Excellent work as always Stella! I await the next story.

[Barb in Maryland · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another enjoyable Georgian romance from Stella Riley--the third (and last) in her Brandon brothers series (which is, btw, a spin-off from her Rockcliffe series).

Leo Brandon, our hero, is handsome, charming, and London's current favorite portrait painter. He is almost overwhelmed with commissions to paint any debutante whose family can afford his fees. Indeed, it is such a commission that leads him out of London to the Surrey estate of one Sir Jerome Farrell, where he is to paint Farrell's youngest sister, Charlotte. Leo is frustrated with the necessity of this trip, as it is preventing him from pursuing his courtship of a lovely young widow. Oh well, thinks Leo, it's only three days.
To quote the blurb: "Had he known in advance how those days would re-arrange his life, he might have made the catastrophic mistake of staying in London."

When he arrives in Surrey, all appears to be normal, except for the unexplained absence of Sir Jerome. He meets Charlotte and various family members, including Farrell's two step-siblings: Mariella Talbot and her younger, autistic, brother Donato. Leo finds himself enjoying their company and spends rather more time with Mariella than one mischief maker deems acceptable. Leo heads back to London, eager to propose to the lovely widow. And that's when, dear reader, all his plans fall apart Mischief maker has been in touch with a gossip newspaper, broadly hinting that Leo has compromised Mariella. Well, any reader of historical romances knows what that means!
Thus unfolds a very nice riff on the 'forced to get married' trope. I really enjoyed this part of the book, as Leo and Mariella get to know each other. The plot also thickens as Leo learns just why Farrell is not in England. And it seems that others are also interested in Farrell's travels...
There are numerous threats to be overcome before we get to Leo and Marielle's HEA, but all's well that ends well.
It was nice to catch a glimpse of several of the characters from the Rockcliffe series; and, of course, Leo's two older brothers and their wives wander in and out of the story, as needed.
One of the other bright spots was the author's very nuanced and realistic portrayal of young Donato's autism.
This author's books are auto-buys for me. I am eagerly looking forward to reading her next!

[Diane Shearer · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Brandon Brothers is a fun series but it doesn't have the magic of the Rockliffe series. Then again, nothing does. A four star series by Stella Riley is still better than anything written by anyone else. These are fun characters, but without the appearances of the Rockliffe characters these books would be much less interesting to me. In fact, my favorite scene in this book was the unveiling of Sebastian Wingham's portrait. Brought me to tears. Even so, it's a great story with a really beautiful, though rather abrupt, ending. It always feels weird to me to introduce new characters in the last few pages. There are only three Brandon brothers and one sister and they are all dealt with. I hope there are more books in the series because I feel like I need more time with Leo. He is absolutely my favorite Brandon brother. I wish Miss Riley would do a Kickstarter to have Leo's paintings published. She must have a real painter in mind when she describes his paintings. So many of them have been described in the series. I would be all over that. Leo and Donato together are magical. Speaking of Donato, how interesting to introduce an autistic character in 1815, a time when imperfect public behavior was absolutely not tolerated in the upper classes, and any hint of mental illness in a family was social death. I mean, we've all read Jane Eyre. Autism must have been around then and no one would have had a clue what it is or how to deal with it. Donato's birth family, and his future family, deal with his needs in such a loving and humane manner, it's worth reading just for that plot line. Though, in reality, if he had been non verbal he would probably have been sent away, or worse. As it is their love and concern for him are really beautiful. My complaint with all of these books is the covers. They are so bad. All her other books have the most spectacular covers, (except for The Wicked Cousin, which is execrable, and inexplicable in comparison to all the others) yet this series has these comic book covers. It's so sad, especially since painting is such a huge part of these stories. I am collecting hard copies of all her books, but I will wait for the reprint of this series in hopes the publisher wises up and puts Leo's paintings on the covers. Wouldn't that be amazing!

[DeAnna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Montesoro Legacy brings the Brandon Brothers trilogy to an extremely satisfying close -- I enjoyed it the most of all three. Some people might prefer some more conflict between the protagonists during the beginning and middle, but I enjoyed this very sweet read. Curl up on a comfy sofa with your hot drink of choice and just sink into the story. You'll be glad you did!

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story. The title itself drew me in and I always enjoy “fake fiancee” tropes. However, as always with the Brandon series, the story is more than just the (lovely) romance. It involves adventure and jeopardy that added exciting, page-turning elements that kept me reading until the small hours.

I was struck by the numerous moments of jeopardy throughout the story. From Adam and Camilla’s initial doubts about Leo’s involvement with Grace Chartley to whether Leo would be forced to offer marriage to someone he hardly knew and on through all the twists and turns engendered by Sir Jerome’s headlong rush to obtain Mariella’s inheritance: these added a frisson of danger that made me want to keep reading.

This novel works as an exciting, adventure story. There is plenty of action, danger and suspense, as Adam, Camilla and M Section hunt down Sir Jerome and Cox. It is a real battle of wits supported by good detective work, gritty determination and a certain imaginative panache.

However, it is the central relationship between Leo and Mariella that is the beating heart of the story. Their love story is woven seamlessly with the thriller elements and is all the richer for it.

Leo is a real triumph. We have had captivating glimpses of him in Trick of Fate and Under a Dark Moon, but it was wonderful to see the whole of his character revealed as the story progresses. We already know that he is handsome, intelligent, charming and very talented so I really liked that Adam and Camilla set the scene early on in this novel, wondering how Leo would cope with adversity. I enjoyed watching Leo increase in confidence and decisiveness in dealing with the problems that beset him. I loved his understanding, compassion and sensitivity, especially in his relationship with Donato. His dealings with Donato revealed the essence and depth of his personality, as did his amazing portrait of Sebastian. Who could fail to melt at his protective instincts and care for Mariella.

Mariella is also an interesting character. She is more subtly drawn: she is quietly strong, intelligent, honourable and fiercely protective of her little brother. Her proposal to Leo was quite bold and demonstrates strength of character. Mariella’s shy pleasure in her new life in London; the way she immediately fit into Leo’s family and was accepted by his circle of friends; her sense of humour and her quiet dignity in dealing with the way she had been treated by Sir Jerome are all qualities that make her attractive to Leo.

I really liked the way Leo’s love story with Mariella developed. There was no “coup de foudre” for him, although Mariella fell in love with Leo at first sight. The enforced proximity of the fake betrothal enabled us to see the rapport build between them to the point where Leo realised that Mariella was essential to his happiness. His realisation of his love is truly delightful.

One of Ms Riley’s greatest strengths is her creation of wonderfully vivid and authentic characters. Donato is a lovely example. It must have been tricky to get the balance right but there are no false notes, and he is just delightful, adding so much depth to the story.

Readers of Ms Riley’s novels will recognise many characters from her previous stories. This is another aspect of her writing that I particularly like. The new story is fresh and exciting but it is set against a recognisable background. It is lovely to meet so many old friends: Adam and Camilla, Sebastian and Cassie and the operatives from M Section. The novel does work as a standalone, but it is so much richer if you know the previous stories in the Brandon Brothers series. Indeed, if you have not read them or the Rockliffe novels, you have a veritable treat in store. They are all a similarly high standard.

I don’t want to talk about the actual Montesoro legacy for fear of spoilers. However, the denouement of the story offers us the opportunity to go on a beautifully described journey and is a fitting conclusion to a wonderful story. I just loved it.

[TinaNoir · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ah... the third book in the Brandon Brothers series featuring artist and youngest brother Leo.

His heroine is a young lady, Charlotte, whose mother and stepfather died and is now under the control of her shady step brother. Not really because she is of age, but somehow he got his hands on the will and won't tell her what is in it. Also he claims that the estate of her mother and bio father has renters so she can't go and live there. Oh... all sorts of shady things. We, Dear Reader, immediately understand that is is possibly Charlotte has a lot 'o money and Shady Stepbrother is embezzling from her because she doesn't have the resources or wherewithal to find out anything on her own.

He intercepts a letter meant for her as the eldest daughter of the Monstesoro family (hence the title of the book) and that is of course Charlotte (her dad was Venetian) to come claim their legacy. He of course plans to go and 'retrieve it for her'. Uh yeah. Charlotte, for once knowing something he doesn't about what he will need in order to retrieve said legacy (and something he doesn't have), happily stands on the proverbial doorstep waving him goodbye on a long trip to Venice. She plans to use the time to get some answers.

Into her sphere comes Leo and through all sorts of shenanigans, Charlotte suddenly finds herself with a lot of resources, namely Leo's older brother Max and the 007-like agency he and his wife work for who have been secretly investigating the shady stepbrother.

This was a super fun book. I liked all the plot twists and turns. Some were predictable -- of course the shady stepbrother was stealing from Charlotte -- but some were gratifyingly not. I liked all the side characters, the plots within plots, some near misses, and people get their just deserts.

I really enjoyed the romance between Leo and Charlotte and I especially liked Leo's relationship with Charlotte's brother.

Nice way to spend time and Alex Wyndham's narration is always good.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stella Riley’s novels have a dreamlike and enchantingly romantic feel to them, that I can’t help but return to them time and again for comfort and escape. Leo and Mariella’s love story is no exception. Hoping to temper the effects of malicious gossip, Leo Brandon and Mariella Montesoro Talbot enter a fake betrothal, only for it to foster into real love.

Leo and Mariella are such a lovely couple. I adored their sweet romance. While romance is central to the story, there is also humor, mystery, and danger. I am really enjoying the M Section escapades. Of course, that means more Adam and Camilla, which I heartily approve! Max and Frances, too, are here. Gosh! I love Max and his customary wit and humor. Moreover, Mariella’s younger brother, Donato, pulled at my heart strings. I appreciate Stella Riley for depicting his character in such a sensitive and realistic manner.

The world of Rockliffe feels like home to me. I love reconnecting with these characters. I especially have a soft spot for Sebastian. That portrait unveiling scene was so emotional and poignant that it brought tears to my eyes. I wish I could see the masterpiece in real life.

Are we sure there aren’t more Brandon brothers out there? Because I don’t want this series to end. These Brandon brothers have raised the bar too high. They are the perfect romance heroes in my eyes!

I highly recommend this book and series!

All superlatives fail when it comes to describing Alex Wyndham’s performance. Take a bow, sir!

[Samantha Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book from start to finish! Brilliant humor, romance, mystery, family, love, danger, fun, warmth, a fab cast of characters both new and ones we've already met in previous books (obvs the Brandon family, but also cameos from Rockcliffe series characters). The main couple has chemistry from the start - both Leo and Mariella were enjoyable to read about, I really liked both personalities individually as well as together. Mariella's brother Donato was a lovely surprise - won't put spoilers in, but I want to know more and I'm hoping Stella continues to write books in this series even though technically this is the story of the youngest of the Brandon brothers, so possibly the final book. Stella has a way of weaving her stories together with previous ones that makes each book add to the story and the enjoyment of the others, so by the time we reach this one you really know the family, friends, and the world she created, you're longing to go back and spend more time with them, and there are no retcons. The new characters are the focus of the story of course, and a joy to get to know for the first time, while at the same time you feel like you know everyone else, and you get to see how their lives have progressed since their own books (this appeals to me sooo much, I love a happy ending to a story, but I always want to know what happens next as well, so Stella's series are especially satisfying). The interactions between the Brandon family are some of my absolute faves in a series. Love this family! I think to fully enjoy some of the jokes and the family relationships it definitely helps to have read the previous books in the Brandon Brothers series, so you get the references (for example Camilla and the cheese grater :D ), but there are some really funny scenes that need no references either. You don't need to have read the Rockcliffe series first (but if you haven't I think you're missing out!), although if you have, then it will also add to the enjoyment of this book as well when those characters are involved in the story. This book is heartwarming, it's fun, it's got lots of different elements to it (mystery, history, thriller, spying, romance, family etc) and I also love the extended ending - you get to know what happens next - and I think that's 5 star fantastic! If you love Stella's other books I think you'll love this one too!

[Andrea Looney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love for Leo

Leo the baby of the family and talented artist finally has his turn at finding love. This is the 3rd book in the Brandon Brothers Books. This one was my favorite of the three books. There was a love triangle for a time, a very evil villain and much family love and loyalty. Rockliffe made an appearance and some of the other beloved characters from the Rockliffe books were there. It was a treat to read. If you have not read the other books in the series you would be okay reading this book. If you have read them you will love this story!! Stella Riley always writes a beautiful story with wonderful characters and this has all of that.

[mrs a v mathewson · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is always such a pleasure to read Stella Riley. Her characters are warm, real, humorous and above all, human. And she also portrays friendship and kinship as part of the weft of the story. All of this makes a romance novel by Stella one I always look forward to.

[Wendy Trim · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely finale to the Brandon brothers

My only criticism is that I finished it too quickly! Once I started I didn’t put the iPad down until the end. I love the way these books intertwine with the Rockliffe stories, you get to see character progression for lots of previous and much loved families.

[Evie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this. A very satisfying third book in the trilogy with some lovely glimpses at characters from earlier books.

[Flo · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the final novel in the Brandon Brothers trilogy by Stella Riley. It is mainly a love story that ends very quickly when heroine, Mariella, meets and falls in love with well known portriatist, Leo Brandon, who is also beautiful. He is planning to propose to another society woman when he meets Mariella and her strange family, Sir Jerome Talbot, her stepbrother and his sisters, and not least her own brother, Donato, who would obviously be on the asperger syndrome today, but in those days is considered by her stepbrother and his family as retarded. Sir Jerome has been milking money from Mariella's inheritance from the day her mother died and she and Donato are feeling the pinch. The rest of the novel tells how he is made to stop. The description of the sex between Mariella and Leo is good but comes nowhere near the descrptions in Riley's previous novel, with Adam Brandon and Camilla. These were so good I could feel what they felt. Here I did not. But still a well written regency romance.

[Eleanor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another lovely read by Stella Riley. Leo Brandon is London's most sought after portraitist. When he us commissioned to paint Charlotte Farrell, he meets Mariella Talbot, a young woman trying to thwart her step-brother, Jerome Farrell from stealing her inheritance and leaving her and her brother destitute. A secret and Mariella's Italian family hold the key to escaping her step-brother's machinations.

Stella Riley has built a lovely world with the Brandon family (and the Rockcliffe family & friends branches too), and it is so enjoyable and feels like a real part of history. I felt fully immersed and could barely put down the book. Leo and Mariella's love story was sweet and passionate. It was also lovely having Donato, Mariella's brother included as a neurodivergent person and how lovingly Leo's family embraced him, metaphorically speaking. I would definitely love more books in this world Riley has built.

This is relatively low heat. Maybe 🌶 or so.

[gj indieBRAG · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are proud to announce that THE MONTESORO LEGACY (Brandon Brothers, #3) by Stella Riley has been honored with the B.R.A.G.Medallion (Book Readers Appreciation Group). It now joins the very select award-winning, reader-recommended books at indieBRAG.

[Virginia Tican · Rating 5 out of 5]

The means to getting at the Montesoro's inheritance is a key that Mariella Talbot did not give to her step~brother's possession, when he unctuously and with further intent to defraud the Talbot siblings from their rightful inheritance, went to Venice to greedily sequester their legacy. Mariella, at 22 was the sole guardian of her brother Donato, who had what we now call OCD, a mild one with a bit of autism thrown in, I think. Their father was an English diplomat posted to the Continent, and their mother was Venetian hence their un~English first names. Their widowed mother (who was also disowned by her family when she married Talbot) married Farrell, a rich merchant who had already 4 children from his first marriage. The first 2 boys were older than her. Then the widow and the widower parents died leaving the running of all conjugal estates and properties in the hands of the eldest wicked step~brother. Soon after, mysterious accidents, that would have resulted in death, happened to Mariella; while Donato's routine was disrupted to cause him tantrums that would then justify his commitment to an asylum. Please get a copy of this book to find out how Leo Brandon, a gorgeous popular portraitist and the youngest of the Brandon brothers got entangled into the Talbots' drama. You won't regret delving into this well~written prose with nostalgic references to past beloved characters from this author's Rockliffe series. The Rockcliffe series is a whole lot better than any of the new so~called Regency and historical romances that come out month after month out there. Most copies of Ms. Riley's books could be downloaded FREE from ebook~hunter.org or libgen. The Rockliffe series would come full~circle in Midwinter Magic, especially for Rosalind and Amberley and their 2 children... just in time for Christmas.

[Celia Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have just finished The Brandon Trilogy by Stella Riley, and I loved all three books -- A Trick of Fate, Under A Dark Moon, and The Montesoro Legacy. In a Trick of Fate, Max Brandon is led on a wild goose chase from Yorkshire to Scotland, but he has at his side, Frances, his long lost love. The question for Max is, can their love be rekindled during this seemingly never ending trek. In A Trick of Fate, Max's brother Adam joins a secret British spy system. His first task is to discover who is in charge of a smuggling operation in Kent, but more important, who are the traitors who are smuggling in French spies. Handicapping his task are the niece and nephew of his commander. The niece, Camilla, because she is entirely too enticing, the nephew because he seems to be involved in the smuggling. In the final book, The Montesoro Legacy, Max's youngest brother, Leo, a renowned artist, becomes involved in a scandal with Mariella Talbot due to a vicious-spirited woman who claims Leo and Mariella have been indiscreet. To save Mariella's reputation, Leo is forced to ask her to marry him. Needing to escape her wicked step-brother and save her brother, Donato, from being put in an asylum, Mariella agrees to the marriage proposal, but only if the betrothal lasts until she can regain her finances that her step-brother has stolen. But as Leo and Mariella spend more and more time together, and Leo and his family help to protect Mariella from her step-brother, they begin to sense love may be blossoming, and the betrothal may not be broken after all. Each one of these books is full of fun and adventure as well as the romance. I am hoping Riley will continue with this group of characters and tell us how a Brandon distant cousin prospers, how Donato and his step-sister Charlotte fare, and what of the younger, and kindhearted step-brother, Titus. Such fun!!

Celia Martin

[Beebs · Rating 2 out of 5]

2 stars are for 1. The decent characterization and inclusion of a neurodivergent character, probably on the autism spectrum, 2. The relationship development between MMC and this character, the brother of FMC. and I mean, good writing, I just didn't really enjoy the overall finished product.


But for the rest? The female love interest has no personality. I don't mean she's a wallflower, shrinking violet, or mousy, just there is absolutely no characterization of her apart from her relation to the plot. She's basically a plot device. There was so much time spent building on and describing the bajillion other characters from the Rockliffe series and this one, and touching on each of the prior couples' lives and relationships, developing the MMC'S relationship with his future bil, working out the mystery plot/obstacle, which really wasn't an obstacle at all, etc., that it's like the author never got around to formulating a personality for the FMC aside from protective sister with decent morals and.... that's it.

Actually, at one point there's an option the FMC's considering, to move back into her old home that's been abandoned and is a bit run down. Doing that with a neurodivergent underage brother and not a lot of income for a while, with MMC showing up from time to time or staying nearby and helping, might have shifted the focus more to her and her brother rather than them being plot devices for the Brandon Bros, inc. existence of all the previous, interrelated characters, or what, but I was a bit underwhelmed.

[Carôle Ceres · Rating 5 out of 5]

The BEST Of The Trilogy

I almost didn’t want to start this one. Then, once started, I didn’t want it to end! I’d willingly listen to a few sequels to this couple. Especially as it would (of course) include the other siblings with their spouses and their social crowd in it!

Leo is just great and his interactions with both Mariella and her brother are beautifully written. Donato (the brother), is easy to embrace (figuratively, not literally), and the whole Brandon family dynamic is really enjoyable.

It’s surprising how easy a reputation could be tarnished by vicious gossip! Leo finds himself unwittingly (& unfairly) rumoured to have compromised Mariella, despite innocuously befriending and eroding the social challenges of her brother.

Of course, no one would really blame it on the Cactus plant! But, that starts the adventure off and the tale just hits the ground running! This is the best, most enjoyable (& probably the most credible) of the three stories, but it is also the most human.

I listened to the audiobook version of this title, which was wonderfully and ably read by Alex Wyndham.

I’m now bereft of Ms Riley’s stories. I shall have to reread Rockliffe again.

[GG · Rating 4 out of 5]

Leo's story is one I have been looking forward to since Adam's book. It was not the best week to really concentrate on it. It begs to be re-read. I really liked Mariella, her situation feels hopeless. And with the added responsibility of her younger brother Donato (who I am guessing is a high functioning autistic) her situation can only get better. It does with the entrance of Leo Brandon. There are lots of visits with Leo's family and friends, particularly Adam and Camilla both who are major players in the story. As well as M Section's involvement in the story.

My favorite scene is Donato and the pot of blue paint. One of the villains gets his comeuppance in a most unusual way.

This is a wonderful addition to the Brandon Brothers legacy.

Highly recommended.

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am really enjoying these books, although I wasn't sure why the last part of the book was included other than to describe different parts of Europe. They really had little to do with the plot. Once the situation with Jerome was settled, the rest seemed like fluff, but I was glad to find out what the legacy was all about. Donato was wonderfully portrayed. I got such a kick out of him. Now I am curious about Charlotte and whether Mariella and Leo will be able to rescue her from her sister and whether she will ever get her portrait. Her life seemed to take a downward turn on the day after her 18th birthday, which seemed a shame, since she deserved better.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars.

I found the premise of this one interesting but unfortunately it (and the angst between the MCs) fizzled out by the three quarters mark. And while I appreciated the MCs didn’t let any misunderstandings drag on for long, the utter lack of any kind of tension for the last fourth of the story had me a little bored.

The historical content was fairly interesting and, while slightly boring, this Brandon brother was quite likable. All told a solid 3.5 stars.

[Alicia Marsland · Rating 5 out of 5]

my only complaint

About this great series is the sex scenes. They aren’t possible, generally speaking, and raise unrealistic expectations for perfect experiences every time. Now romances usually do this because they help with sexual fantasies or even actual sex. But we mere mortals are not gorgeous, always responsive gods and goddesses. This is why l get annoyed. To me, how to handle less than perfect sex is the measure of true love.

[Laura Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another gem by Stella Riley

I have never been disappointment in this author, wonderful story telling and character development,so appreciated considering what passes for historical romance these days. Please keep writing because all your books are unique and never the same,thank you so much.

[kathie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audible, own copy. Narrator Alex Wyndham.
late 1700s.
Leo Brandon, Mariella and her autistic brother Donato. Evil stepbrother Jerome.

While I still prefer the Brandon brothers great, great, etc grandfather, Colonel Gabriel Brandon, I always appreciate Stella Riley's writing. Many cameos in this book from Rockcliffe and others.

[Lupinus Texensis · Rating 2 out of 5]

This one really felt like a filler book in a series. The climax was anticlimactic and the protagonists felt flimsy, especially compared to the two prior books and the inclusion of more colorful secondary characters from the universe. There wasn't even any angst! I need that angst.

[Zoe Adams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh, this was the best of the Brandon Brothers books, by far! Leo was a lovely lovely character. I do like the way that Stella Riley differentiates the leads in all these books, and always thinks of some twist on the conventional plot of a romance. I'll miss these books very much!