Masque of Deceptions

By: Stella Riley

Narrated by: Alex Wyndham

Had it not been for the scent bottles, it is unlikely that Daniel Shelbourne, Viscount Reculver, and Anna Hawthorne of Hawthorne’s Porcelain would ever have met.
Daniel’s late father left him an impoverished estate – which he had expected – and unexplained debts, which he hadn’t. Anna inherited a thriving business, along with the knowledge and passion required to run it.
Daniel needs money quickly if his family is to avoid ruin.
Anna wants to create a tribute to her father’s vision and skill.
He is desperate; she, astute and determined.
So when Anna hears whispers that Lord Reculver is discreetly selling some of his possessions, she remembers the large collection of scent bottles purchased from Hawthorne’s over the years … all of them designed by her father.
They are exactly what she needs.
Moreover, selling them to her will give his lordship some of what he needs.
All she has to do, therefore, is make him a reasonable offer.
Simple. Or is it?

©2024 Stella Riley (P)2024 Stella Riley

Excellent Character Development

Stella Riley's writing has improved dramatically over the years, and this is probably my favorite story she's written. There's tons of good character development, no cliche internal or external conflicts, and the pacing is excellent. I look forward to more stories in this series.

Excellent listen

I loved the first book in this series and I loved this book. The characters and the narrator make or break an audio book (IMHO). Stella Riley is gifted in developing characters that are real, likeable and strong. And in this book, she excelled. Alex Wyndham is the perfect narrator for Stella Riley's books. He interprets her characters and presents them in a delightful and meaningful way. His inflection in the dialogue is spot on and his presentation of humor is icing on the cake. This book will certainly be a repeat listen for me and I highly recommend to others.

Wonderful

Stella Riley's second book in the Shadows series is, as usual, wonderful. Love, suspense, a touch of danger, and characters you care about. Alex Wyndham's performance is not to be missed. The audiobook was released Tuesday and I've already listened twice. Well done!

Wonderful story. Unique characters.

I really enjoyed the heroine’s story. She was raised to run a business by her father. Unheard of in those days. Great love story!

Wonderful story and narrator

Excellent story with superb narrator. The two main characters slowly get to know and appreciate each other, which makes their eventual love very believable. This novel of an arranged marriage begins with a subtle tribute to Georgette Heyer's A Civil Contract, but this is a much happier story. The intelligent heroine is unusual because she is considered plain, and because she is devoted to successfully running the art pottery inherited from her father.

Another satisfying story from SR!

Another very satisfying book from Stella Riley. The sweet love story of a VERY unlikely pair woven with a bit of intrigue. This was an excellent road trip binge listen! Perfect narration. This was Shadows #2 and I am always delighted when Stella brings in former characters and allows us an updated glimpse into their lives. Stella paints in lovely detail, an accurate historical & cultural picture of her characters and setting. I learn about English history & culture without even realizing it!

Well Written!!!

I read the book first and enjoyed it enough to turn around a buy the audiobook to let Alex Wyndham bring Rilley's characters to life.
I have listened over and again and it is in my favs list to fall asleep to (not because it is so boring it puts me to sleep but because it is a great listen).

2nd Book of New Stella Riley series

Listened to this new story in Series non-stop. I’ve been waiting for newest book of Ms Riley - any book of hers and especially if narrated by Alex Wyndham. Love Daniel’s story and really appreciate his lady, Anna. Love strong, unique heroines.

Georgian marriage of convenience turns into love

This book is another heartwarming Georgian romance from Stella Riley, in this case a marriage of convenience with strong allusions to Georgette Heyer's "A Civil Contract". The second book in this new series about a group of friends, this novel explores the story of Daniel who inherits a title with heavy debts, and Anna, the "Hedgehog Heiress", who manages a porcelain manufactory, legacy of her beloved father. A cool, rational agreement between the two, seemingly gives both parties what they need but not the true love they both secretly yearn for. However, the two protagonists begin to build a strong partnership, trying to deal with the villains that threaten the respective security of each, and as they support each other, a love grows that surpasses their dreams.
A cozy story, flawlessly describing details of the Georgian era, fascinating insights into the workings of a porcelain manufactory, with protagonists striving for good, supporting each other and their respective dependents, a lot of laughter, loyal friends, triumph over enemies - what's not to love about it? Alex Wyndham adds his inimitable style and talent as narrator to the story, portraying the various characters, the emotions and humour with the aplomb we have grown to expect from him, creating a rich and satisfying listening experience of secrets gradually unfolding and love gradually growing between this lovely Georgian couple.

outstanding!

Wonderful storyline, fabulous characters. familiar old friends. You can't get any better than the combination of Stella Riley and Alex Wyndham.