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His Lordship’s Mysteries #2
His Lordship's Master
alternate cover editions can be found here and here
Still reeling from the horrific events in London, Alfie thinks Balcarres House, the seat of his earldom, will be just the place to recover. But unexplained noises in the night, figures that vanish into thin air, and ghostly tales of the infamous Wicked Master all make for a less-than-restful stay. When one of the household turns up dead, matters only get worse.
While Alfie tries to solve this mystery, his lover Dominick struggles to fit into his new station in life. It feels like the mud from the slums still sticks to his fine new clothes. He starts to worry that he’ll never be able to stand by Alfie’s side, and about what will happen when Alfie realises the same.
But Balcarres House holds secrets that cry out for blood. If Alfie and Dominick aren’t careful, they may become the next ghosts trapped within its walls.
His Lordship's Master is the second title in the His Lordship's Mysteries series.
Still reeling from the horrific events in London, Alfie thinks Balcarres House, the seat of his earldom, will be just the place to recover. But unexplained noises in the night, figures that vanish into thin air, and ghostly tales of the infamous Wicked Master all make for a less-than-restful stay. When one of the household turns up dead, matters only get worse.
While Alfie tries to solve this mystery, his lover Dominick struggles to fit into his new station in life. It feels like the mud from the slums still sticks to his fine new clothes. He starts to worry that he’ll never be able to stand by Alfie’s side, and about what will happen when Alfie realises the same.
But Balcarres House holds secrets that cry out for blood. If Alfie and Dominick aren’t careful, they may become the next ghosts trapped within its walls.
His Lordship's Master is the second title in the His Lordship's Mysteries series.
323 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2020
45 people are currently reading
141 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
February 14, 2025
A gothic murder mystery, set against the backdrop of a castle, and is gay af? Wow! it's like His Lordship's Master was tailor-made just for me. :)
February 3, 2021
This proved a great follow-up book in the series whereby Ms SoRelle continues to expand the characters of Alfie and Dominick so vividly brought to life in His Lordship's Secret - their insecurities, fears, strengths and motivations. By removing our MCs (and hence the plot setting) to Balcarres House (the Penningtons' Scottish homestead and family seat of the Earl of Crawford), the author was able to provide much gothic-esque mystery with staff disappearances, ghostly legends of blackguard ancestors and of course unexpected deaths. The romance aspect is also nicely covered by .
Gil and Jarrett proved interesting new secondary characters and I have feeling we'd be seeing more of them in future. The absence of the loyal and irrepressible Mrs Hirkins was a disappointment but my hope is that she'd make a reappearance sooner rather than later. Of further interest, the author provides background material and info on the real Balcarres House (which is the family seat of the real Earl of Crawford and Balcarres) as addendum at the end of the read. My attention was fully and continuously engaged throughout this 4 star read and I can't wait for what new adventures await Alfie and Dominick next.
Gil and Jarrett proved interesting new secondary characters and I have feeling we'd be seeing more of them in future. The absence of the loyal and irrepressible Mrs Hirkins was a disappointment but my hope is that she'd make a reappearance sooner rather than later. Of further interest, the author provides background material and info on the real Balcarres House (which is the family seat of the real Earl of Crawford and Balcarres) as addendum at the end of the read. My attention was fully and continuously engaged throughout this 4 star read and I can't wait for what new adventures await Alfie and Dominick next.
January 3, 2024
2.5 stars
Hmmm... this one didn't work very well for me. I felt the story didn't have focus - there were ghosts, there were murders, flirting footman, and in the middle of it, some boring day-to-day interaction and Dominick trying to master the art of utensils of the higher clas. It took me days to finish!
So I guess I will stop the series at this point. The ending doesn't have cliffhanger anyway...
Hmmm... this one didn't work very well for me. I felt the story didn't have focus - there were ghosts, there were murders, flirting footman, and in the middle of it, some boring day-to-day interaction and Dominick trying to master the art of utensils of the higher clas. It took me days to finish!
So I guess I will stop the series at this point. The ending doesn't have cliffhanger anyway...
August 11, 2022
4.5*
I very much enjoyed this Scottish set mystery which involved not only a crime in the present which Alfie and Nick had to solve, but also the discovery of the truth about the Wicked Master, a Crawford descendant in the late 1500s.
I only sussed who the villain of the piece was right towards the end, there were lots of red herrings cleverly placed throughout the narrative.
The story takes inspiration from a real Scottish Earldom and its family seat, although the author is at pains to point out they have changed all the details of the alleged Wicked Master.
I rather found myself vastly preferring the version told here and I loved the spooky atmosphere that Sam created with the murder mystery.
Alfie and Dominick do need their heads banging together at one point but fortunately their idiotic behaviour isn't allowed to fester for too long.
There's some interesting new characters brought into the story here bit I'm not sure if we'll be seeing them again. I hope so though.
Another great read and I'm now very keen to get onto book three!
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
I very much enjoyed this Scottish set mystery which involved not only a crime in the present which Alfie and Nick had to solve, but also the discovery of the truth about the Wicked Master, a Crawford descendant in the late 1500s.
I only sussed who the villain of the piece was right towards the end, there were lots of red herrings cleverly placed throughout the narrative.
The story takes inspiration from a real Scottish Earldom and its family seat, although the author is at pains to point out they have changed all the details of the alleged Wicked Master.
I rather found myself vastly preferring the version told here and I loved the spooky atmosphere that Sam created with the murder mystery.
Alfie and Dominick do need their heads banging together at one point but fortunately their idiotic behaviour isn't allowed to fester for too long.
There's some interesting new characters brought into the story here bit I'm not sure if we'll be seeing them again. I hope so though.
Another great read and I'm now very keen to get onto book three!
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
July 2, 2023
Everything I loved about the first of this series but now it's in a rainy Scotland castle setting and there are ghosts! This book has got haunts and murder and a very adorable Alfie continuing to get himself into trouble and a very stressed Dominick who is trying very hard to get him out of it.
July 26, 2022
His Lordship’s Master (His Lordship’s mysteries, 2)
By Samantha SoRelle
Published by Balcarres Books, 2020
Four stars
Another good take on the gothic romance, “His Lordship’s Master” follows up on the story of Alfie Pennington, Earl of Crawford, and his “cousin,” Dominick Trent. Raised in a workhouse for orphans, Alfie was adopted as a boy, leaving his closest friend and protector behind. The first book covers the details of their reunion and survival in the heart of Regency London.
And, shades of “Rebecca,” the second story moves to the moors of Scotland and to Alfie’s ancestral home, Balcarres House in Fife. Carrying their own shared secrets, Alfie and Dominick find a place full of secrets of its own. As is only appropriate, our boys arrive on a dark and stormy night, unaware that their worries about passing as gentry are the least of their concerns.
SoRelle does very well with the language, and manages the nuances of class with deft purpose as this gothic tale of murder and dark family legacy. The author draws from a great tradition of such literature, but tweaks and twists it to suit the peculiar nature of the main characters’ perspective on the world. Alfie and Dominick’s relationship is tender and amusing, caught up in the history of Balcarres House and the personalities of both the household and the village.
We are reminded that Alfie has been trained by his adoptive parents for the role he plays—and that training is so very different from the life Dominick led before he and Alfie found each other. This becomes an emotional driver for the narrative, as Alfie coaches Dominick so that he can better fit in under the scrutiny of both servants and neighbors. The tenuous position of same-sex couples in Regency Scotland (or, for that matter, all of 19th-century Great Britain) is kept as a constant undertone, even as the larger mystery begins to threaten them.
Alfie, ever conscious of his own less-than-worthy position as the earl, discovers that there are other things than blood that make a nobleman.
Now I’m anxious for the next book, to see what they’ll do next.
By Samantha SoRelle
Published by Balcarres Books, 2020
Four stars
Another good take on the gothic romance, “His Lordship’s Master” follows up on the story of Alfie Pennington, Earl of Crawford, and his “cousin,” Dominick Trent. Raised in a workhouse for orphans, Alfie was adopted as a boy, leaving his closest friend and protector behind. The first book covers the details of their reunion and survival in the heart of Regency London.
And, shades of “Rebecca,” the second story moves to the moors of Scotland and to Alfie’s ancestral home, Balcarres House in Fife. Carrying their own shared secrets, Alfie and Dominick find a place full of secrets of its own. As is only appropriate, our boys arrive on a dark and stormy night, unaware that their worries about passing as gentry are the least of their concerns.
SoRelle does very well with the language, and manages the nuances of class with deft purpose as this gothic tale of murder and dark family legacy. The author draws from a great tradition of such literature, but tweaks and twists it to suit the peculiar nature of the main characters’ perspective on the world. Alfie and Dominick’s relationship is tender and amusing, caught up in the history of Balcarres House and the personalities of both the household and the village.
We are reminded that Alfie has been trained by his adoptive parents for the role he plays—and that training is so very different from the life Dominick led before he and Alfie found each other. This becomes an emotional driver for the narrative, as Alfie coaches Dominick so that he can better fit in under the scrutiny of both servants and neighbors. The tenuous position of same-sex couples in Regency Scotland (or, for that matter, all of 19th-century Great Britain) is kept as a constant undertone, even as the larger mystery begins to threaten them.
Alfie, ever conscious of his own less-than-worthy position as the earl, discovers that there are other things than blood that make a nobleman.
Now I’m anxious for the next book, to see what they’ll do next.
October 6, 2021
Yeah, four stars might be a bit generous for this novel but it's well done for what it is.
Is the period language perfect? No.
Does Dominick still annoy me with his vaguely 'I'm too good for you' / aren't I gracious in forgiving and constantly protecting you?' ways? Yes
Is Alfie undermined by everyone to an extent you want to yell at him to get a backbone? Yes.
Does Dominick being the generic hunky hot guy who is more wish fulfilment than actual character annoy me more because of the author's use of their experience/inexperience in the bedroom as a plotline? Oh boy, yes. Note to authors: topping and bottoming isn't big deal you think it is. Also, when Alfie gets retconned from being fairly well versed in sex to being all but a virgin in book 1 I was annoyed and still am here.
Despite all these flaws, it's well written, there is a good mystery, the supporting characters are memorable, the side plots and so forth are well done so as not to sap the energy of the main story, there's good momentum.
When I was interrupted from reading the story I was eager to pick it up again, which is never a bad sign.
I would read another.
Oh, one more thing. Dominick constantly gets referred to as making amusing comments. Don't tell us a character is amusing...just have them be actually amusing.
Is the period language perfect? No.
Does Dominick still annoy me with his vaguely 'I'm too good for you' / aren't I gracious in forgiving and constantly protecting you?' ways? Yes
Is Alfie undermined by everyone to an extent you want to yell at him to get a backbone? Yes.
Does Dominick being the generic hunky hot guy who is more wish fulfilment than actual character annoy me more because of the author's use of their experience/inexperience in the bedroom as a plotline? Oh boy, yes. Note to authors: topping and bottoming isn't big deal you think it is. Also, when Alfie gets retconned from being fairly well versed in sex to being all but a virgin in book 1 I was annoyed and still am here.
Despite all these flaws, it's well written, there is a good mystery, the supporting characters are memorable, the side plots and so forth are well done so as not to sap the energy of the main story, there's good momentum.
When I was interrupted from reading the story I was eager to pick it up again, which is never a bad sign.
I would read another.
Oh, one more thing. Dominick constantly gets referred to as making amusing comments. Don't tell us a character is amusing...just have them be actually amusing.
September 14, 2023
Such a thrilling set of tales set in the frosted, stormy months of autumn, His Lordship's Master is the most perfect, cozy M/M mystery to read during Spooky season or when it's too cold outside to do anything but huddle under a blanket and read.
This book somehow embraces a ghost story, an Agatha Christie-style murderer in the house mystery, and the continuing romance of Alfie and Nick - replete with character growth, protectiveness, hurt/comfort, and just a few dashes of non-jealous possessiveness that makes everything more delicious. All of this is set in a gothic Scottish mansion where the wind howls and something unknown taps at the walls, while a full cast of chacacters are introduced, developed, and duly suspected as murderers.
From start to finish this story had me hooked in its talons of mystery and intimacy as pages turned almost on their own, and I was swept up all the way to the finale.
There are so many things I appreciate about this story, but I'll start with Alfie and Nick. Alfie and Nick are imperfect individuals who love each other. So much so that even when they have a fight I never doubt that they're not in love with each other or that they're not right for each other, which is so important to me, especially in a sequel.
Alfie and Nick are written very much realistic, hopelessly in love, but also as a HEALTHY couple. Through everything they trust each other no matter what, even when one of them's being flirted with. Does a little possessiveness shine through? Yes (yum). Does their relationship ever become co-dependent or jealous or suspicious? No! This is something that's rare in media, and I love it so much. Alfie and Nick are precious and hold a place in my heart.
Besides those sweethearts and their relationship, this story holds a host of other plots that balances out the romance just as well as it did in the first book. Not only is there quickly discovered a murderer on the loose, but also a centuries old mystery about a "Wicked Master" and his ghost that's said to still haunt Balcarres's halls.
I actually didn't guess ANY of the reveals and twists and turns in this story, which is unusual for me and speaks more to this book and its storytelling than much else I could say. I was on the edge of my seat at several turns, and especially didn't want to put it down at all in the last half of the book.
The last thing I have to comment about before I end this review is all the accuracies, and real life histories the author wove into this book! Balcarres house is a real place. "The Wicked Master" is a real historical figure from the area!! Loads more, from the history and design of the building, to the dialect of the characters for the time, were all thoughtfully researched and delivered with magnificent care.
I can't tell you how much I appreciate when an author devotes so much energy to making her setting as accurate as possible, and I've rarely seen one attended to as much as this one was. I'm in awe!
Honestly, this book/series has quickly become one of my favorites. If you're a fan of regency M/M romance with enough gothic intrigue to keep you up at night, this series is for you. I can't recommend it enough.
His Lordship's Master **Trigger Warnings** (vague but Possible Spoilers Below; tread with caution):
~Past rape (not of the MCs)
~Mentioned back alley abortion resulting in death
~Strangulation/Murders
~Past murder
~Claustrophobia
~Past physical abuse (not of the MCs)
~Homophobia, typical of the time
This book somehow embraces a ghost story, an Agatha Christie-style murderer in the house mystery, and the continuing romance of Alfie and Nick - replete with character growth, protectiveness, hurt/comfort, and just a few dashes of non-jealous possessiveness that makes everything more delicious. All of this is set in a gothic Scottish mansion where the wind howls and something unknown taps at the walls, while a full cast of chacacters are introduced, developed, and duly suspected as murderers.
From start to finish this story had me hooked in its talons of mystery and intimacy as pages turned almost on their own, and I was swept up all the way to the finale.
There are so many things I appreciate about this story, but I'll start with Alfie and Nick. Alfie and Nick are imperfect individuals who love each other. So much so that even when they have a fight I never doubt that they're not in love with each other or that they're not right for each other, which is so important to me, especially in a sequel.
Alfie and Nick are written very much realistic, hopelessly in love, but also as a HEALTHY couple. Through everything they trust each other no matter what, even when one of them's being flirted with. Does a little possessiveness shine through? Yes (yum). Does their relationship ever become co-dependent or jealous or suspicious? No! This is something that's rare in media, and I love it so much. Alfie and Nick are precious and hold a place in my heart.
Besides those sweethearts and their relationship, this story holds a host of other plots that balances out the romance just as well as it did in the first book. Not only is there quickly discovered a murderer on the loose, but also a centuries old mystery about a "Wicked Master" and his ghost that's said to still haunt Balcarres's halls.
I actually didn't guess ANY of the reveals and twists and turns in this story, which is unusual for me and speaks more to this book and its storytelling than much else I could say. I was on the edge of my seat at several turns, and especially didn't want to put it down at all in the last half of the book.
The last thing I have to comment about before I end this review is all the accuracies, and real life histories the author wove into this book! Balcarres house is a real place. "The Wicked Master" is a real historical figure from the area!! Loads more, from the history and design of the building, to the dialect of the characters for the time, were all thoughtfully researched and delivered with magnificent care.
I can't tell you how much I appreciate when an author devotes so much energy to making her setting as accurate as possible, and I've rarely seen one attended to as much as this one was. I'm in awe!
Honestly, this book/series has quickly become one of my favorites. If you're a fan of regency M/M romance with enough gothic intrigue to keep you up at night, this series is for you. I can't recommend it enough.
His Lordship's Master **Trigger Warnings** (vague but Possible Spoilers Below; tread with caution):
~Past rape (not of the MCs)
~Mentioned back alley abortion resulting in death
~Strangulation/Murders
~Past murder
~Claustrophobia
~Past physical abuse (not of the MCs)
~Homophobia, typical of the time
December 19, 2020
Reunited at Last!
Former brawler, now gentleman-in-training Dominick and his love the “Earl” Alfie are headed to the family seat in Scotland and into more derring-do. Good, solid Regency storytelling, full of intrigue, murder, and a tale within a tale. I felt incredible sadness for the Wicked Master’s fate. However, the romance between the MCs added balance to this story. Overall, a good read!
Former brawler, now gentleman-in-training Dominick and his love the “Earl” Alfie are headed to the family seat in Scotland and into more derring-do. Good, solid Regency storytelling, full of intrigue, murder, and a tale within a tale. I felt incredible sadness for the Wicked Master’s fate. However, the romance between the MCs added balance to this story. Overall, a good read!
March 8, 2024
HIS LORDSHIP'S MASTER is the second book in the His Lordship's Mysteries series, and we continue on our merry way with Alfie and Nick. Now, you 'could' read this as a standalone but, honestly? To get the most out of it, I would absolutely recommend you read it in order.
We leave the grime and corruption of London behind us as we travel to Scotland with Alfie and Nick. However, what we find there is cold, wet, and mysterious! A big old house, an urban legend of the 'Wicked Master', plus a murder or two, and you've got plenty to keep you occupied.
I loved how the relationship between Alfie and Nick just went so much deeper. Their love is true, even if they're not at it like rabbits all the time! (Understandable considering the time period).
There are so many layers woven into this story and I love it all. I won't go into detail as I don't want to ruin it for anyone else but nothing is as it seems. The closest I got was with a couple of the female characters. I was sure something was going on with them, but I did not imagine it would be what it was!
For a great historical mystery with some MM tenderness as an added bonus, I can absolutely recommend this.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Apr 22, 2022
We leave the grime and corruption of London behind us as we travel to Scotland with Alfie and Nick. However, what we find there is cold, wet, and mysterious! A big old house, an urban legend of the 'Wicked Master', plus a murder or two, and you've got plenty to keep you occupied.
I loved how the relationship between Alfie and Nick just went so much deeper. Their love is true, even if they're not at it like rabbits all the time! (Understandable considering the time period).
There are so many layers woven into this story and I love it all. I won't go into detail as I don't want to ruin it for anyone else but nothing is as it seems. The closest I got was with a couple of the female characters. I was sure something was going on with them, but I did not imagine it would be what it was!
For a great historical mystery with some MM tenderness as an added bonus, I can absolutely recommend this.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Apr 22, 2022
February 7, 2021
Another wonderful book about Alfie and Dominick’s love and mysteries, I hope there’s ten more to come!
November 1, 2021
I LOVED THE MYSTERY, ADVENTURE AND LOVE!
MOST OF ALL THE UNERRING, UNDYING LOVE — NO MATTER WHAT.
HIS LORDSHIP’S MASTER
HIS LORDSHIP’S MYSTERIES
BOOK 2
SAMANTHA SORELLE
31 OCT 2021
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — EXCELLENT STORY AND ADVENTURE!
5 ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️ — LOVED THIS BOOK!
5 🤙🤙🤙🤙🤙 — RECOMMEND IT TO EVERYONE!
I LOVED THIS BOOK AS MUCH AS I DID THE PREQUEL AND BOOK ONE.
I LOVED THE MYSTERY, ADVENTURE AND LOVE!
MOST OF ALL THE UNERRING, UNDYING LOVE — NO MATTER WHAT.
I DO SO HOPE THERE ARE MORE OF THESE TO COME IN THE FUTURE.
MS SORELLE DOES SO WELL WRITING ALL THINGS EMOTIONAL — ALL THINGS LOVE.
OF COURSE, HER SKILLS WITH MYSTERY AND ADVENTURE AND WILD RIDES ARE NEARLY UNEQUALLED COMPARED TO ANY OF THE WRITERS I’VE BEEN READING ON KINDLE.
YES . . . UNEQUALLED.
THIS IS THE CONTINUING STORY OF THE BOXER AND THE EARL BEYOND LONDON.
THEY DECIDE TO HEAD TO THE SEAT OF ALFIE’S EARLDOM IN SCOTLAND — TO BALCARRES HOUSE.
JUST FOR THE FUN OF IT — ALONG THE WAY THEY STOP AT THE MANY SMALLER PROPERTIES THAT ALFIE GAVE TO NICK, NOT ONLY TO CHECK THAT ALL IS WELL WITH THE PROPERTIES BUT ALSO, TO HAVE A LOT OF ONE ON ONE ALONE TIME TOGETHER — AS IT TAKES WEEKS TO DO THIS ON THE WAY TO SCOTLAND.
WHEN THEY DO FINALLY ARRIVE IN SCOTLAND AND AT BALCARRES HOUSE THEY ARE VERY SHOCKED — AS INDEED, IT WAS NOT AT ALL WHAT THEY WERE EXPECTING.
AND THINGS JUST GO FURTHER DOWNHILL FROM THERE.
THEY CAN FEEL THERE US SOMETHING VERY “NOT RIGHT” ABOUT THE PLACE.
AND SOON, ONCE AGAIN, THEY’RE INVOLVED IN MYSTERIES, TALES OF OLD, HAUNTED PASSAGEWAYS, “THE WICKED MASTER,” LITTLE RED BOOKS, QUIRKY SERVANTS, ACTUALLY, DECIDEDLY HATEFUL SERVANTS, MYSTERIOUS PAINTINGS AND MURDER — WELL, MAKE THAT MORE THAN ONE MURDER.
YUP, UP TO THEIR CRAVATS IN IT ALL, ONCE AGAIN!
AND WHAT A GREAT ADVENTURE MS SORELLE HAS PENNED FOR ALL OF US TO DELIGHT IN.
JUST ABSOLUTELY SUPERB, AGAIN!
HOWEVER, TO MY DISAPPOINTMENT, AT LEAST ONE THREAD WAS LEFT OPEN.
IT WAS BROUGHT UP ONLY BRIEFLY (and, when it was, I was so anxious to see where it was going to lead) BUT, AFTER IT WAS BROUGHT UP IT WAS NEVER MENTIONED AGAIN — THUS, MS SORELLE LEFT OPEN (at least to me she did) AN UNRESOLVED QUESTION IN THIS STORY — “ . . . vanished money from the Balcarres house funds . . . “ STOLEN BY MR GIBSON — AND, WHETHER HE WAS MURDERED, OR NOT, THAT DID NOT RESOLVE THE DISCOVERY OF THE THEFT AND AFTER IT WAS DISCOVERED IT WAS NEVER AGAIN BROUGHT UP AGAIN, NOR WAS IT RESOLVED.
WHY?
I KNOW THEY ONLY BROUGHT UP THIS THIEVERY AS A POSSIBILITY AS TO WHY MR GIBSON WAS MURDERED, HOWEVER, I THINK THEY SHOULD HAVE PURSUED THIS LINE OF THE PLOT (maybe in the next book?) BECAUSE IT .I.S. MISSING AND HE HAD TO HAVE PUT THAT MONEY SOMEWHERE (and it had to have been used — or going to be used — for some thing. Hopefully, and not just taken for the pure “greed” of it.) AND IT REALLY BELONGED TO THE EARL AND HIS “BALCARRES HOUSE.”
HOW LONG HAD MR GIBSON BEEN STEALING AND HOW MUCH HAD HE ACCUMULATED AND WHERE HAD HE KEPT IT?
OH! AND THE HOUSE TUNNEL THAT LEAD TO THE OUTSIDE?
THE ONE THAT MALCOLM USED TO ESCAPE HIS FATHER, ALL THE TIME?
DID IT STILL EXIST?
AND, WHAT ABOUT ALL THE OTHER TUNNELS MENTIONED IN MALCOLM’S “LITTLE RED BOOK?”
DID THEY STILL EXIST?
I KNOW THE OUTSIDE EXIT TUNNEL COULD PROBABLY BEEN SEALED OFF WITH THE NEW STONE ADDITIONS — MAYBE NOT — AS CHARLETON NEVER MENTIONED FINDING THEM WHEN HE HELPED WITH THE NEW WALL.
BUT STILL, MALCOLM’S DIARY MENTIONED “SEVERAL” TUNNELS BESIDES THE ONE HE USED TO ESCAPE THE MANOR, AND THE CURRENT HOUSEHOLD ONLY KNOWS OF TWO INTERIOR ONES — WELL, MAKE THAT THREE, NOW!
PLUS, I DON’T WANT NICK TO GET RID OF THE LANDS (that he feels he doesn’t know how to manage) THAT ALPHIE SO UNSELFISHLY GAVE TO HIM!!!
PLEASE, COME UP WITH A DIFFERENT SOLUTION THAN THE ONE OFFERED AT THE END OF THIS BOOK!
THEY’VE BEEN IN ALPHIE’S FAMILY FOR GENERATIONS, IT WOULD SEEM UNGRATEFUL AND WOULD BE REALLY DISAPPOINTING.
LET NICK EITHER LEARN TO MANAGE THEM, HIRE AN ESTATE MANAGER, LET ALPHIE MANAGE THEM ALONG WITH HIS OWN — OR — GIVE THEM BACK TO ALPHIE!
BUT, PLEASE, DO NOT LET HIM GET RID OF OR SELL THEM OFF!
PLEASE!?!
OOPS ‼️‼️‼️
I GUESS THAT MAKES THREE THINGS I’D LIKE TO SEE RESOLVED.
HMMM . . . ALL TO BE ANSWERED IN ANOTHER BOOK, OR BOOKS, MAYBE?
BUT, DON’T LET MY WANTS FOR WHAT WASN’T IN THIS BOOK, STOP YOU FROM TREATING YOURSELF TO WHAT IS IN THIS BOOK AND TO ANOTHER GREAT ADVENTURE OF SAMANTHA SORELLE’S.
YOU REALLY DON’T WANT TO MISS THIS BOOK — AT ALL!
WELL WORTH ANYTHING I MAY HAVE WISHED FOR — IT’S NOT MY BOOK — SHE CAN GO ANY DIRECTION SHE WANTS — AND, YES, I WILL GLADLY FOLLOW!!!
YES . . . PLEASE, GIVE US MORE, MS SORELLE!
PLEASE?!?
AND, THANK YOU, AGAIN!
🌷🌷🌷MTULIPK🌷🌷🌷
MOST OF ALL THE UNERRING, UNDYING LOVE — NO MATTER WHAT.
HIS LORDSHIP’S MASTER
HIS LORDSHIP’S MYSTERIES
BOOK 2
SAMANTHA SORELLE
31 OCT 2021
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — EXCELLENT STORY AND ADVENTURE!
5 ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️ — LOVED THIS BOOK!
5 🤙🤙🤙🤙🤙 — RECOMMEND IT TO EVERYONE!
I LOVED THIS BOOK AS MUCH AS I DID THE PREQUEL AND BOOK ONE.
I LOVED THE MYSTERY, ADVENTURE AND LOVE!
MOST OF ALL THE UNERRING, UNDYING LOVE — NO MATTER WHAT.
I DO SO HOPE THERE ARE MORE OF THESE TO COME IN THE FUTURE.
MS SORELLE DOES SO WELL WRITING ALL THINGS EMOTIONAL — ALL THINGS LOVE.
OF COURSE, HER SKILLS WITH MYSTERY AND ADVENTURE AND WILD RIDES ARE NEARLY UNEQUALLED COMPARED TO ANY OF THE WRITERS I’VE BEEN READING ON KINDLE.
YES . . . UNEQUALLED.
THIS IS THE CONTINUING STORY OF THE BOXER AND THE EARL BEYOND LONDON.
THEY DECIDE TO HEAD TO THE SEAT OF ALFIE’S EARLDOM IN SCOTLAND — TO BALCARRES HOUSE.
JUST FOR THE FUN OF IT — ALONG THE WAY THEY STOP AT THE MANY SMALLER PROPERTIES THAT ALFIE GAVE TO NICK, NOT ONLY TO CHECK THAT ALL IS WELL WITH THE PROPERTIES BUT ALSO, TO HAVE A LOT OF ONE ON ONE ALONE TIME TOGETHER — AS IT TAKES WEEKS TO DO THIS ON THE WAY TO SCOTLAND.
WHEN THEY DO FINALLY ARRIVE IN SCOTLAND AND AT BALCARRES HOUSE THEY ARE VERY SHOCKED — AS INDEED, IT WAS NOT AT ALL WHAT THEY WERE EXPECTING.
AND THINGS JUST GO FURTHER DOWNHILL FROM THERE.
THEY CAN FEEL THERE US SOMETHING VERY “NOT RIGHT” ABOUT THE PLACE.
AND SOON, ONCE AGAIN, THEY’RE INVOLVED IN MYSTERIES, TALES OF OLD, HAUNTED PASSAGEWAYS, “THE WICKED MASTER,” LITTLE RED BOOKS, QUIRKY SERVANTS, ACTUALLY, DECIDEDLY HATEFUL SERVANTS, MYSTERIOUS PAINTINGS AND MURDER — WELL, MAKE THAT MORE THAN ONE MURDER.
YUP, UP TO THEIR CRAVATS IN IT ALL, ONCE AGAIN!
AND WHAT A GREAT ADVENTURE MS SORELLE HAS PENNED FOR ALL OF US TO DELIGHT IN.
JUST ABSOLUTELY SUPERB, AGAIN!
HOWEVER, TO MY DISAPPOINTMENT, AT LEAST ONE THREAD WAS LEFT OPEN.
IT WAS BROUGHT UP ONLY BRIEFLY (and, when it was, I was so anxious to see where it was going to lead) BUT, AFTER IT WAS BROUGHT UP IT WAS NEVER MENTIONED AGAIN — THUS, MS SORELLE LEFT OPEN (at least to me she did) AN UNRESOLVED QUESTION IN THIS STORY — “ . . . vanished money from the Balcarres house funds . . . “ STOLEN BY MR GIBSON — AND, WHETHER HE WAS MURDERED, OR NOT, THAT DID NOT RESOLVE THE DISCOVERY OF THE THEFT AND AFTER IT WAS DISCOVERED IT WAS NEVER AGAIN BROUGHT UP AGAIN, NOR WAS IT RESOLVED.
WHY?
I KNOW THEY ONLY BROUGHT UP THIS THIEVERY AS A POSSIBILITY AS TO WHY MR GIBSON WAS MURDERED, HOWEVER, I THINK THEY SHOULD HAVE PURSUED THIS LINE OF THE PLOT (maybe in the next book?) BECAUSE IT .I.S. MISSING AND HE HAD TO HAVE PUT THAT MONEY SOMEWHERE (and it had to have been used — or going to be used — for some thing. Hopefully, and not just taken for the pure “greed” of it.) AND IT REALLY BELONGED TO THE EARL AND HIS “BALCARRES HOUSE.”
HOW LONG HAD MR GIBSON BEEN STEALING AND HOW MUCH HAD HE ACCUMULATED AND WHERE HAD HE KEPT IT?
OH! AND THE HOUSE TUNNEL THAT LEAD TO THE OUTSIDE?
THE ONE THAT MALCOLM USED TO ESCAPE HIS FATHER, ALL THE TIME?
DID IT STILL EXIST?
AND, WHAT ABOUT ALL THE OTHER TUNNELS MENTIONED IN MALCOLM’S “LITTLE RED BOOK?”
DID THEY STILL EXIST?
I KNOW THE OUTSIDE EXIT TUNNEL COULD PROBABLY BEEN SEALED OFF WITH THE NEW STONE ADDITIONS — MAYBE NOT — AS CHARLETON NEVER MENTIONED FINDING THEM WHEN HE HELPED WITH THE NEW WALL.
BUT STILL, MALCOLM’S DIARY MENTIONED “SEVERAL” TUNNELS BESIDES THE ONE HE USED TO ESCAPE THE MANOR, AND THE CURRENT HOUSEHOLD ONLY KNOWS OF TWO INTERIOR ONES — WELL, MAKE THAT THREE, NOW!
PLUS, I DON’T WANT NICK TO GET RID OF THE LANDS (that he feels he doesn’t know how to manage) THAT ALPHIE SO UNSELFISHLY GAVE TO HIM!!!
PLEASE, COME UP WITH A DIFFERENT SOLUTION THAN THE ONE OFFERED AT THE END OF THIS BOOK!
THEY’VE BEEN IN ALPHIE’S FAMILY FOR GENERATIONS, IT WOULD SEEM UNGRATEFUL AND WOULD BE REALLY DISAPPOINTING.
LET NICK EITHER LEARN TO MANAGE THEM, HIRE AN ESTATE MANAGER, LET ALPHIE MANAGE THEM ALONG WITH HIS OWN — OR — GIVE THEM BACK TO ALPHIE!
BUT, PLEASE, DO NOT LET HIM GET RID OF OR SELL THEM OFF!
PLEASE!?!
OOPS ‼️‼️‼️
I GUESS THAT MAKES THREE THINGS I’D LIKE TO SEE RESOLVED.
HMMM . . . ALL TO BE ANSWERED IN ANOTHER BOOK, OR BOOKS, MAYBE?
BUT, DON’T LET MY WANTS FOR WHAT WASN’T IN THIS BOOK, STOP YOU FROM TREATING YOURSELF TO WHAT IS IN THIS BOOK AND TO ANOTHER GREAT ADVENTURE OF SAMANTHA SORELLE’S.
YOU REALLY DON’T WANT TO MISS THIS BOOK — AT ALL!
WELL WORTH ANYTHING I MAY HAVE WISHED FOR — IT’S NOT MY BOOK — SHE CAN GO ANY DIRECTION SHE WANTS — AND, YES, I WILL GLADLY FOLLOW!!!
YES . . . PLEASE, GIVE US MORE, MS SORELLE!
PLEASE?!?
AND, THANK YOU, AGAIN!
🌷🌷🌷MTULIPK🌷🌷🌷
January 4, 2021
Overall, I liked this book better than the first one. If there is a third book I am looking forward to it!
Spoiler summary:
Thoughts:
Spoiler summary:
Thoughts:
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2022
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book 2 in the His Lordship's Mysteries series, and while this can be read as a stand alone, I really think you SHOULD read book one, His Lordship's Secret before this one. Lots happened in that book that is referenced here, but not fully explained. You could probably piece things together, but I think to get the full effect of Alfie and Dominick, you need to read that book first.
Still recovering from what happened in London, Alfie and Dominick retreat to his family house in Scotland. And find themselves in the middle of an age-old mystery. What with ghosts and missing people and now a dead butler, Alfie and Dominick jump headlong into another caper!
I really was enjoying this a bit more than book one, but something triggered with me, and I found myself thinking about another book. With another ago-old mystery, with another painting, in another castle. And I'm stumped as to which book it was, but after that point, I found I didn't enjoy it quite so much.
Oh don't get me wrong, please. It's really well written, from both Alfie and Dominick's point of view. There are more things revealed about both Alfie and Dom's lives in the time they were apart. There is much love here, even if they sometimes forget that.
I again quote my review for Secret:
I loved that the whodunnit was so NOT who I was expecting, nor was it WHY! I love being kept on my toes!
Because I really did not see that one coming at me. But the whole Wicked Master thing? I could see that coming at me, even before the point I mentioned before. I could see that things were really not as they were portrayed to be.
There are almost two stories going on here. The missing woman and the dead butler, then the Wicked Master thing. I liked that, along with the growing deepening connection between Alfie and Dom, which evokes some mighty powerful feelings here!
So, even though things were a little blurry, I did enjoy it and I'll still give it. . .
4 solid stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
This is book 2 in the His Lordship's Mysteries series, and while this can be read as a stand alone, I really think you SHOULD read book one, His Lordship's Secret before this one. Lots happened in that book that is referenced here, but not fully explained. You could probably piece things together, but I think to get the full effect of Alfie and Dominick, you need to read that book first.
Still recovering from what happened in London, Alfie and Dominick retreat to his family house in Scotland. And find themselves in the middle of an age-old mystery. What with ghosts and missing people and now a dead butler, Alfie and Dominick jump headlong into another caper!
I really was enjoying this a bit more than book one, but something triggered with me, and I found myself thinking about another book. With another ago-old mystery, with another painting, in another castle. And I'm stumped as to which book it was, but after that point, I found I didn't enjoy it quite so much.
Oh don't get me wrong, please. It's really well written, from both Alfie and Dominick's point of view. There are more things revealed about both Alfie and Dom's lives in the time they were apart. There is much love here, even if they sometimes forget that.
I again quote my review for Secret:
I loved that the whodunnit was so NOT who I was expecting, nor was it WHY! I love being kept on my toes!
Because I really did not see that one coming at me. But the whole Wicked Master thing? I could see that coming at me, even before the point I mentioned before. I could see that things were really not as they were portrayed to be.
There are almost two stories going on here. The missing woman and the dead butler, then the Wicked Master thing. I liked that, along with the growing deepening connection between Alfie and Dom, which evokes some mighty powerful feelings here!
So, even though things were a little blurry, I did enjoy it and I'll still give it. . .
4 solid stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
May 4, 2021
I have a family relationship with the part of Scotland where this takes place. My great-grandmother was a Lindsay, the clan most closely related to and intertwined with the Crawfords. When my sister got involved in a Medieval reenactment group over 35 years ago, she chose to be a Crawford and I chose to be a Lindsay. So this story spoke to me as a part of my history, both IRL and in my fantasy of playing at being my best historical self.
I adore how this story covers both the relationship between Alfie and Nick and Nick's new passage into the world of society, even if it's the Scottish country wilds instead of the glittering London Ton. Scotland seems to be a better place for Nick and Alfie to acclimate, and I'm eager to see how Jarrett makes himself a part of their household -- the last scene of the book with Jarrett present had me stifling my howls so I didn't wake the rest of my own sleeping household. This is an interesting mystery with a bonus tragic ghost story, and I'm very much looking forward to more from Alfie and Nick!
(On re-reading my review before posting, I realize I've really said nothing about the plot or the resolution or the mystery. So you'll all just have to read it for yourself, won't you? Hope I've enticed some to take the plunge -- the writing truly is wonderful and this author is my new favorite historical go-to!)
I adore how this story covers both the relationship between Alfie and Nick and Nick's new passage into the world of society, even if it's the Scottish country wilds instead of the glittering London Ton. Scotland seems to be a better place for Nick and Alfie to acclimate, and I'm eager to see how Jarrett makes himself a part of their household -- the last scene of the book with Jarrett present had me stifling my howls so I didn't wake the rest of my own sleeping household. This is an interesting mystery with a bonus tragic ghost story, and I'm very much looking forward to more from Alfie and Nick!
(On re-reading my review before posting, I realize I've really said nothing about the plot or the resolution or the mystery. So you'll all just have to read it for yourself, won't you? Hope I've enticed some to take the plunge -- the writing truly is wonderful and this author is my new favorite historical go-to!)
November 23, 2020
Tour-de-Force
Continuing the love story and unexpected adventures of Lord Alfie and pugilist Dominick, this book sweeps you in from the start and throws surprise after surprise until you not only have to take a breath but also can't stop turning (or swiping) the pages.
I simply would do this book no justice outlining the plot because it is so unique, and beautifully detailed, that every highlight would become a spoiler. However, I will state that the central mystery of "The Wicked Master" is both exciting and heart breaking and brilliantly exposed.
I will also let you in on the fact that quite early in the book I had suspicions at what might develop between a couple of the supporting characters, but you will have to figure that out for yourself whether I was correct.
Speaking of characters, every one of them is exceptionally developed, most especially Alfie and Dominick. That these two found each other in the first book and maintained their love and devotion--despite some obstacles--is reason enough to get into the pages.
And when you do, you will not be able to get out from between the covers--that's how much of a hold Ms. SoRelle will have on your wits, and your heart.
Continuing the love story and unexpected adventures of Lord Alfie and pugilist Dominick, this book sweeps you in from the start and throws surprise after surprise until you not only have to take a breath but also can't stop turning (or swiping) the pages.
I simply would do this book no justice outlining the plot because it is so unique, and beautifully detailed, that every highlight would become a spoiler. However, I will state that the central mystery of "The Wicked Master" is both exciting and heart breaking and brilliantly exposed.
I will also let you in on the fact that quite early in the book I had suspicions at what might develop between a couple of the supporting characters, but you will have to figure that out for yourself whether I was correct.
Speaking of characters, every one of them is exceptionally developed, most especially Alfie and Dominick. That these two found each other in the first book and maintained their love and devotion--despite some obstacles--is reason enough to get into the pages.
And when you do, you will not be able to get out from between the covers--that's how much of a hold Ms. SoRelle will have on your wits, and your heart.
December 15, 2020
Wonderful love story
I wasn't really sure where this book would take us after the events of book one but I couldn't wait to find out. Alfie and Dominick have a really good backstory to their relationship and it just adds so much but also explains so much in how they deal with one another. Their affection for each other started as friendship with a deep level of trust between them and it's beautiful to see how that comes into play as their relationship grows.
I missed having Mrs Hirskins in this book but I liked the new additions and where this story went. There were some heartbreaking moments but also alot of warm and loving bits too and not just for our two mcs. The mystery kept me guessing as there seemed to be so many possibilities and I enjoyed how everything connected both past and present.
I really hope that there are more books coming in this series. Alfie and Dominick are so lovely together and their relationship is just starting. I would love to see it become stronger and see where the future takes them. I'm also curious about Dominick's ring and if there might be a book that explains more about his past and how his ring ties in. So much more to explore, please don't leave us hanging.
I wasn't really sure where this book would take us after the events of book one but I couldn't wait to find out. Alfie and Dominick have a really good backstory to their relationship and it just adds so much but also explains so much in how they deal with one another. Their affection for each other started as friendship with a deep level of trust between them and it's beautiful to see how that comes into play as their relationship grows.
I missed having Mrs Hirskins in this book but I liked the new additions and where this story went. There were some heartbreaking moments but also alot of warm and loving bits too and not just for our two mcs. The mystery kept me guessing as there seemed to be so many possibilities and I enjoyed how everything connected both past and present.
I really hope that there are more books coming in this series. Alfie and Dominick are so lovely together and their relationship is just starting. I would love to see it become stronger and see where the future takes them. I'm also curious about Dominick's ring and if there might be a book that explains more about his past and how his ring ties in. So much more to explore, please don't leave us hanging.
Read
March 9, 2022A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
His Lordship’s Master is the second in the His Lordship’s Mysteries series and these books need to be read in order as this work is a direct continuation of His Lordship’s Secret. Alfie and Nick are back and while they’re clearly in love and devoted to one another, once they arrive in Scotland, the realities of their life start to become apparent.
This series works, not because of the mysteries (though the mystery is given greater prominence this time around), but because of Alfie and Nick. They’re a fantastic couple and they clearly need one another in ways they don’t even realize. They aren’t co-dependent or lacking in individuality; instead, they are simply better for knowing and being with one another. There are times when the communication issues read as somewhat contrived and unnecessary. But despite this, these miscommunications do allow for character growth and a deepening of Alfie and Nick’s relationship, so I don’t consider them completely irrelevant.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
His Lordship’s Master is the second in the His Lordship’s Mysteries series and these books need to be read in order as this work is a direct continuation of His Lordship’s Secret. Alfie and Nick are back and while they’re clearly in love and devoted to one another, once they arrive in Scotland, the realities of their life start to become apparent.
This series works, not because of the mysteries (though the mystery is given greater prominence this time around), but because of Alfie and Nick. They’re a fantastic couple and they clearly need one another in ways they don’t even realize. They aren’t co-dependent or lacking in individuality; instead, they are simply better for knowing and being with one another. There are times when the communication issues read as somewhat contrived and unnecessary. But despite this, these miscommunications do allow for character growth and a deepening of Alfie and Nick’s relationship, so I don’t consider them completely irrelevant.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
November 26, 2020
Oh wow, I've been so excited for this sequel and it was just as great as I'd hoped! The book picks up a few months after "His Lordship's Secret" with Alfie and Dominick going to Alfie's earldom in Scotland. When they get there, there's a murder, a ghost, and whole cast of fun new characters. Gil especially was one of my favorites, but all the characters were described in really fun, unique ways so I never lost track of who was who (a problem that I have with most mystery novels with a lot of suspects).
I don't want to say too much about the plot and spoil it, but the romance was deliciously spicy and the murder mystery really kept me guessing. I love how sweet Alfie and Dominick's relationship is. Even when they fight, you can tell how much they care for each other. I also really liked the parts about the ghost of the Wicked Master. If you're easily scared, don't read this book alone at night (like I made the mistake of doing). There are some parts that are pretty spooky!
All in all, an excellent romance, an excellent mystery, and a surprisingly excellent ghost story. I can't wait to see what adventures Alfie and Dominick will get up to next!
I don't want to say too much about the plot and spoil it, but the romance was deliciously spicy and the murder mystery really kept me guessing. I love how sweet Alfie and Dominick's relationship is. Even when they fight, you can tell how much they care for each other. I also really liked the parts about the ghost of the Wicked Master. If you're easily scared, don't read this book alone at night (like I made the mistake of doing). There are some parts that are pretty spooky!
All in all, an excellent romance, an excellent mystery, and a surprisingly excellent ghost story. I can't wait to see what adventures Alfie and Dominick will get up to next!
February 23, 2021
The second book in a duo is often disappointing when the first is really enjoyable. I think this one surpassed the first one-His Lordship's Secret. I already liked Alfie and Dominick and they do not disappoint. Their l0vefest continues and while they are glitches, they are the ones we often have in the early stages of a relationship, and they are not drug out. The details of the surroundings are in tune with the house and I could picture the wildness and aura. Mrs Buie is a disappointment but she fits in with the story as a whole. The stories themselves are captivating. I am a bit of a romantic and I loved the memorial. My only caveat is that sometimes the details ran on a little long but that was rare. I look forward to reading any more of her books and I was a little sad when this one was over.
December 9, 2020
I liked the second instalment much better than the first, probably owing to the setting. Nick and Alfie go to Alfie's house in Scotland, where murder and disappearances begin to make their stay... complicated. I enjoyed the plot much more than the first and the characters were well-crafted and believable. The little side-story concerning the Wicked Earl was lovely and heartbreaking. I felt for Nick, for his struggles, for the pain in his past, and for his insecurities, but at times I felt he was too perfect. Alfie had some growing to do as a character and had some believable set backs.
Overall, a good historical mystery. I wonder if there will be more books in the series.
Overall, a good historical mystery. I wonder if there will be more books in the series.
March 19, 2021
More adventures with Dominick and Alfred as they remove to Alfred's family seat in Scotland. Here we encounter intrigue, adventure, murder, and ghoulies and ghosties and long legged beasties and things that go bump in the night. And also, sadly for Dominick, class clashing. Even Alfred let me down at one time with his being more concerned with his damned rug rather than the fact Dominick was standing there shivering and dripping wet. The actual mystery of the 'Master' is at times spooky, strange, and then utterly, heart-breaking. The love between these two men is all encompassing, their complete affection and trust in each other steady's them as they wade through this nightmare.
March 6, 2022
Things that go bump in the night, murderous ancestors, disappearing guests and murder - in the Scottish highlands.
Alfie and Nick make it to the ancestral home, which is dour and imposing - and very dark!
The butler didn't do it, as he was the first murder victim - leading the boys into another mystery, in the now and 300+ years before.
Both are solved, the past making uncomfortable reading for the treatment of people.
The present making uncomfortable reading for the treatment of girls in employment (still in the past compared to now).
I like these two, want to know about Nick and the ring yet
Alfie and Nick make it to the ancestral home, which is dour and imposing - and very dark!
The butler didn't do it, as he was the first murder victim - leading the boys into another mystery, in the now and 300+ years before.
Both are solved, the past making uncomfortable reading for the treatment of people.
The present making uncomfortable reading for the treatment of girls in employment (still in the past compared to now).
I like these two, want to know about Nick and the ring yet
August 16, 2025
4+⭐
What a sad and funny book. Alfie and Nick have wonderful banter and they're so sweet on each other. There's something very cosy and hopeful in this book, but there's also two horrible tragedies in it that make me feel truly bad.
I am a sucker for haunted mansions and the mystery here is pretty good too. This is partly based on real history, and like the author had, I found the depictions of the Wicked Master and his father very suspicious. I liked where she went with that.
Lots of new characters were introduced and I'd be happy to see more of them. Obviously some of them departed (from living or otherwise) but the best ones stayed.
What a sad and funny book. Alfie and Nick have wonderful banter and they're so sweet on each other. There's something very cosy and hopeful in this book, but there's also two horrible tragedies in it that make me feel truly bad.
I am a sucker for haunted mansions and the mystery here is pretty good too. This is partly based on real history, and like the author had, I found the depictions of the Wicked Master and his father very suspicious. I liked where she went with that.
Lots of new characters were introduced and I'd be happy to see more of them. Obviously some of them departed (from living or otherwise) but the best ones stayed.
November 23, 2020
Even though she only has two books out so far, SoRelle has become one of my favourite authors of the genre. This is a fun mystery read with an ending I definitely couldn't have predicted, with a lot of emotional ups and downs along the way. The tragic history of his adoptive family and the house he inherited from them is really interesting and, if you read the author's notes, you find that a lot of it was actually based on real history. Alfie and Dominick are endearing characters and I can't wait to read more about them.
November 10, 2022
3.5 stars, but rounding down because the first half of this book really dragged for me. After the events of book 1, we now join Alfie and Dominick in Scotland, where Alfie reclaims his ancestral seat. It's a big Scottish pile with dour servants and ghosts and secrets. The romance was sweet, and I like Nick and Alfie, but somehow I just wasn't super invested. The mystery arc was interesting, but took ages to move anywhere. Then the last 20% or so was just jam-packed with happenings. So, yeah, although not a perfect read for me, mostly because of the pacing, it was entertaining enough.
November 22, 2020
I loved this book. The relationship continues to grow between Alfie and Dominick. They have let London and are now starting the lives of landed gentry.
However, soon murder is afoot.
I dont normally read authors notes but did so here and was surprised to find out that the story was based on a real place and events from the past.
Sadly, it looks as if this is the last book in the series, which is a shame as I think there are alot more adventures for these two.
However, soon murder is afoot.
I dont normally read authors notes but did so here and was surprised to find out that the story was based on a real place and events from the past.
Sadly, it looks as if this is the last book in the series, which is a shame as I think there are alot more adventures for these two.
April 19, 2021
Delightful
I've been in a funk trying to find a well written book that can capture me from the first few pages and leave me wanting more. His Lordship stories are exactly that! Love this latest book and can't wait for the next in the series. Great mystery, action and a romance to melt your heart. Everything is in equal measure and hits all the high points of a good historical novel.
I've been in a funk trying to find a well written book that can capture me from the first few pages and leave me wanting more. His Lordship stories are exactly that! Love this latest book and can't wait for the next in the series. Great mystery, action and a romance to melt your heart. Everything is in equal measure and hits all the high points of a good historical novel.
May 5, 2021
It was good to read about Alfie and Dominick again. This time they have left London for a gloomy ghostly manor in Scotland where murders and mysteries await them. This second book is not as good as the first one, though the mystery is enjoyable and the killer is kept hidden till last.
Hoping for more in this series.
Hoping for more in this series.
August 11, 2021
Great Sequel
A deeply satisfying follow up to the first book in the series, His Lordship’s Secret. No spoilers but the classic haunted Scottish castle trope is given a heartbreaking twist that amplifies the deepening relationship between Nick and Alfie. I could read this sweet and steamy series for another dozen books at least.
A deeply satisfying follow up to the first book in the series, His Lordship’s Secret. No spoilers but the classic haunted Scottish castle trope is given a heartbreaking twist that amplifies the deepening relationship between Nick and Alfie. I could read this sweet and steamy series for another dozen books at least.
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