A Beautiful Disguise

The Imposters #1

by Roseanna M. White

Left with an estate on the brink of bankruptcy after their father's death, Lady Marigold Fairfax and her brother open a private investigation firm marketed to the elite . . . to spy on the elite. Dubbed The Imposters, Ltd., their anonymous group soon becomes the go-to for the crème of society when they want answers delivered surreptitiously. But the many secrets Marigold learns about her peers pale in comparison to her shock when she and her brother are hired to investigate her best friend's father as a potential traitor.

Sir Merritt Livingstone has spent a decade serving the monarch in the most elite guard, but when pneumonia lands him behind a desk in the War Office Intelligence Division just as they're creating a new secret intelligence branch, he's intent on showing his worth. He suspects a man of leaking information to Germany as tensions mount between the two countries, but needs someone to help him prove it, so he turns to The Imposters, Ltd. No one knows who they are, but their results are beyond compare.

Lady Marigold is determined to discover the truth for her friend's sake, and she's more determined still to keep her heart from getting involved with this enigmatic new client . . . who can't possibly be as noble as he seems.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Romance, Mystery, Historical, Christian, Fiction

400 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2023

About the author

Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award nominated author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two kids, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books…to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary. She and her family make their home in the beautiful mountains of West Virginia. You can learn more about her and her stories at www.RoseannaMWhite.com.
see also Roseanna White

Reviews

[Merry in and out for the next few days · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book grabbed my attention right away and I loved it. Then it settled into the background of a very unique investigative agency with an added dash of romance. So why after that terrific start did I feel that something was missing. The romance was growing but I never felt like Marigold and Merritt were that drawn to each other, and I don't mean steam....the attraction just felt flat. The plot had good bones but the reasoning for it was rather unknown (I know tensions were building with Germany). The ending was action packed but I thought it was rather more luck than skill that saved the day. Rating 3.25*

[Melissa’s Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The truth isn’t always pretty. But I like to think it’s always beautiful.”

Wow! I absolutely loved A Beautiful Disguise! It’s a fantastic start to the new Imposter series and I can’t wait for more. Set in Edwardian England, this romantic, suspenseful pre-MI5 story will take you on an amazing, nail-biting journey. With spies, acrobatics, a slow burn love story, a brother & sister sleuthing team akin to Holmes & Watson, & a touch of faith, this story intrigued me from the beginning.

I immediately liked Lady Marigold Fairfax. When she’s not performing acrobatics with her brother Yates or caring for their pet lion and monkey, she’s working undercover as a spy for The Imposters. Left with crushing debts, she and Yates founded the secret investigative agency to help save their estate.

Marigold relies on her aristocratic pedigree and unusual upbringing with actors and circus performers to appear the cool, aloof, fashionable debutant while secretly investigating her peers. When she meets the handsome Sir Merritt Livingston, she’s in danger of losing her heart to a noble man, but with all the truths they discover, can she trust that he’s for real. And, how long can Marigold keep her secrets from him.

Sir Merritt Livingston hates having a desk job while recovering from pneumonia. He’s used to serving as one of the monarch’s elite guards and wants a position in the future MI5 organization. But, when he suspects one of his superiors might be endangering English spies by leaking classified information to Germany, he enlists the help of The Imposters to prove it. No one knows who The Imposters are, but they have a sterling reputation. While depending on their help, he also investigates on his own and keeps running into the enigmatic beauty, Lady Marigold. But, who is she really under her high fashion mask? As England’s human assets keep disappearing, it’s a race against time for Marigold, Yates, and Merritt to find the truth.

I loved Marigold & Merritt! Theirs was an opposites attract love story that slowly builds throughout the story. I loved their friendship, witty banter, & the under the surface attraction. I also appreciated Merritt’s character. He’s the epitome of integrity and like Marigold says, he’s the true embodiment of his name. I enjoyed the slow burn romance and felt like it developed in a natural, believable way.

I’m a huge fan of spy stories, and thoroughly enjoyed the mystery and suspense. I also loved the acrobatics and circus tricks they employ. Be patient at first while lots of characters and motivations are introduced. Like the love story, the mystery takes awhile to unfold, but the last third of the book was unputdownable as the intensity builds and more and more clues are revealed. The side characters were also intriguing and it’ll be interesting to learn more about them in future stories.

All in all, an exciting start to a new series. If you enjoy romantic suspense or historical mystery & romance, you’ll enjoy this story. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided. 4 1/2 stars raised to 5.

[Caitlin Miller · Rating 3 out of 5]

Let me just start off my saying that the author’s books are ones I always keep an eye out for—especially one of her latest releases, Yesterday’s Tides, which is absolutely amazing. I’m so bummed, but this book just wasn’t for me. There wasn’t anything particularly wrong with it, but it just didn’t grab my attention like her other books have. I read to about the halfway point, and maybe my opinion would have changed as the story progressed, and I may go back to this book someday and give it another try, but the storyline just didn’t grab me. It’s really tough for me to DNF books (unless because of content concerns) because I want to give every book I read the chance it deserves to reel me in and make me fall in love with the storyline and characters, but in this very busy season of my life, I’ve had to be careful about what books I choose to read because my reading time is so limited—and while I adore this author so very much, this book just wasn’t for me, so I’m moving on to my next read.

But *please* don’t let my review keep you from trying this book out for yourself! While this book may not have been for me, it might be a new favorite of yours!

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for an eARC of A Beautiful Disguise. A positive review was not required, only my honest opinion. All thoughts are expressly my own.

[Carrie Turansky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Roseanna White begins her new English historical series, The Imposters, with an intriguing story featuring a fearless heroine who disguises herself to spy on London’s elite when she’s not flying on a high trapeze or playing with her retired circus lions. The loyal military hero shines as a worthy suitor and investigation partner. White’s well woven plot is engaging from start to finish with delightful threads of mystery, romance, and inspiration.

[Cara Putman · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this novel, the heroine is an Imposter, part of a band of peers who also investigates the rich and famous in 1909 England. There was so much that I loved about this novel. The sweeping action. The unique backgrounds of the Imposters. The twisty mystery and plot. The sweet, developing romance between Marigold and Merrick. The way the brother and sister are there for each other and for their friends. The way the plot pulls from real historical trends. And the richness of the way the heroine journeys to discover who she really is. I loved every page and am eager to inhale the next book in the Imposter series. A delightful Gilded Age story with just a taste of the Greatest Showman.

[Milena Bookish❤️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Beautiful Disguise is a novel that combines elements of romance and acrobatics with a touch of mystery. Initially, I found the book a bit slow-moving and it didn't immediately grab my attention. However, it did eventually pick up and the pacing was good from that point on. Although the pace wasn't always consistent, the writing was engaging.

Lady Marigold Fairfax and her brother have started a private investigation company that caters to the wealthy and influential. Known as The Imposters, Ltd., they offer discreet services to the cream of society. While uncovering the secrets of her peers, Marigold is shocked to discover that her best friend's father is suspected of being a traitor and has hired her and her brother to investigate.

If you appreciate humorous conversations, couples with romantic tension, suspense, espionage, unpredictable scenarios, unique approaches to obtaining information, extravagant attire, and headwear, and a captivating mystery, then this book may be ideal for you.

Thank you Netgalley and Bethany House Publishing for the eARC. All opinions are my own.

[Melanie (lemonyreads) · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'm fully aware that I am the bad guy in this review section. Let's get to it.

This is labeled as a historical fiction, mystery and romance. While it delivered on the mystery, it tanked on everything else for me. The writing was also in need of editing.

Historically speaking, there were some good moments and nice little bits of information. However, the main theme through this book is the mystery of particular characters, connected to secrets that involve the Germans. The reasons why this is important isn’t explained until 240 plus pages into the book. Not everyone will remember that WWI was in 1914. (this is set in 1909) Maybe the author was simply banking on everyone so used to seeing Germans as the villains, therefore no one would question it. This lack of information made the majority of the books purpose feel weak. Also, the history in 1909 wasn’t explored or expanded upon, unless you want to know more about the circus. Yay for Lions and Monkeys.

I waited over 230 pages for the romance. (if you can call it that) Imagine my “delight” when the kissing scene was only six sentences long. It was like waiting 4 hours in line for a ride at Disney Land and when you finally get in your seat, the ride goes 5 feet and breaks. Bloody disappointing.

The writing was fine but not only did facts need to be switched around, but entire chapters could have been shortened to a few paragraphs or combined for better flow, and the long ass inner monologuing was exhausting.

WHAT I LIKED:
I loved the gymnastic, trapeze moments. Those were entertaining. While the purpose for the mystery wasn't explained until LATE, it was done well.

**I went into this fully expecting to love it. The last book I read from this author was fabulous and I was positive this would be no different. Oh well, not every book will work out, and that's ok.**

You might like this if you are entertained easily, you don't mind waiting for the romance, or you like very little of it. Also, if you enjoy mystery books set in 1909, Then give it a try.

[Paula Shreckhise · Rating 5 out of 5]

This entertaining story set in Edwardian England centers around Lady Marigold and her brother Yates and their newly formed Imposters Incorporated who are secretive private investigators. Much happens when they discover they are on the same case as a War Office Intelligence officer, Sir Merritt Livingstone. Very interesting because this is the beginning of MI 5, bringing several agencies under one umbrella.
I love spy stories and this one is very intricate and also fun because Marigold and Yates perform acrobatic feats in their endeavors. And they have a pet Lion!
Fascinating plot, a rewarding ending, and well-drawn characters with a solid faith thread make this a must read. As always the author has researched wonderfully. I cannot wait for the rest of the series.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*

[Joanne | wellreadcoffeeaddict · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has a taste of The Greatest Showman, Enola Homes, and what I know of Bridgerton (not that I've seen any of these shows). It's charmingly done, yet also had the feeling of being done before. I am looking forward to whatever comes next in the series though, as this one feels more like the Roseanna M White novel I'm used to. (Her previous series, although fun, felt so oddly unlike what she's done before that I couldn't help compare.)

The faith content is there, yet Catholic and not as strong as I'm used to seeing from her books. Instead of flowing naturally all throughout the story, it popped up in certain parts of the story, making it stick out instead. I have a feeling this is more the publisher's doing and less so the author's.

I know this review sounds mostly negative, but it really was a fun read, reminiscent of the older stories I've loved from the author, what with the spy element, mystery, and complexity of the cast of characters.

*I received a copy of this ebook from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to leave a positive opinion, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

[Jeannine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve never had my opinion of a book chance so dramatically as when I read A Beautiful Disguise by Roseanne M. White. What started as, to me, a strangely implausible farce with impoverished aristocrat acrobats with a secret investigation bureau became a fantastic romp with political intrigue and a sweet romance. While the pace wasn’t consistent, the writing was engaging.

The Fairfax siblings were left penniless by a father who loved entertainment. By catering his estate to traveling performers, he gave the siblings, Yates and Marigold, a childhood full of circus lessons and exotic animals. When he died and they found out there was no money to live on, they started using their skills (and those of a few relatives and the small band of Romani who winter on their property) to embark on discrete investigations. This work lands then in the middle of a spy plot during the prior before WWI.

By midway through the book, my doubts were gone and I embraced the eclectic, idiosyncratic cast. With 100 pages to go, I couldn’t stop reading.

There are a few areas where the religious content felt shoehorned in. Two segments on the first third jumped out as not serving the plot or character development. I wonder if they were added during editing? The use of the Boxer Rebellion without context makes sense for the day - some Christians in 1909 England probably wouldn’t object to the consequences of British imperialism (though most educated people were aware of the impact).

I was provided an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my review.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Beautiful Disguise by Roseanna M. White is an excellent historical fiction that is the first in a new series : The Impostors.

This is such a cute and fun novel. There are unique and quirky characters, fresh dialogue, banter, history, action, romance, and a great storyline.

Merritt and Marigold are great main characters and work well together, playing off of one another. The backdrop of early 20th century London makes for a perfect location and worked well with the historical details the author weaved into the story.

I really enjoyed the light romance, the positive threads of faith, love, family, and the ending left me feeling sunny.

Great book.

5/5 stars

Thank you NG and Bethany House Publishers for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 8/22/23.

[(Katie) Paperbacks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spies, espionage, Circus performers, lions...really do I need to say more?

A Beautiful Disguise is by far my favorite book that I have read by Roseanna M. White. I loved the characters, the setting and the slow burn sweet romance between the characters.

The ending really surprised me, which lately has been hard to do since I don't surprise easily. I ended up finishing the last half of the book in three hours, I just couldn't put it down. I can't wait for the sequel and further adventures of the Fairfax family.

Growing up I really wanted to be either a spy or a trapeze artist, I got to live vicariously through this book and just had a really fun time reading it.

*thank you to Baker Publishing for sending me a copy of this book to read and review. All thoughts are my own.

[Chautona Havig · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the idea of English aristocracy deciding to get themselves out of a financial mess by playing to their strengths and having fun in the process.

Marigold is a delightful mix of confidence and the occasional insecurity. Her faith is genuine and natural, her skills aren't over-the-top perfect (if anything, being circus-oriented, one could say they're "under the top," no?). I like that she assumes a relationship won't work for logical reasons rather than being like another character who is much more... um... difficult. Oh, and I really liked how her skills don't outweigh everyone else's.

Merrit is thankfully an intelligent man who recognizes that something is off and at the same time doesn't until there's a reason for him to see beyond what he's expected to see.

Fun twist with the "who's doing it thing and the only thing that fell slightly flat for me was the decision for explaining circumstances at the end. I can see it happening that way and not both at that time. I think... I think it needed a bit more punch to believe that would happen at that time in those specific circumstances.

Giving this 4.5 stars rounded up to five.

[Lindsay Lemus · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded to 4 stars

I really liked the concept of this story...spy mystery in Edwardian England with circus elements and romance. It threw you in right away, which I loved but can understand that it can be confusing if you aren't paying attention. I thought the faith elements were well done, and the relationship between the brother and sister was beautiful.

What took away from my enjoyment was the long chapters. I felt like the information in each chapter was drawn out and could have been more shorter chapters. Also, I like a slow burn, but the interest of even there being romance wasn't until halfway through, and then it happened like it had been building the whole first half which isn't how I felt was executed. It was giving convenient, but I still thought the romance when it hit was really sweet.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Beautiful Disguise was such a fun read!! I was blown away by the characters and how unique they were. I loved the acrobatics and lively characters... including the lion. 😊

It didn't take long for me to be pulled into the story and I loved the Imposters. They definitely got into a sticky situation when their paths crossed with Merrick, but it was good to see how that all played out.

The romance was great. I absolutely loved seeing them grow close and can hardly wait to read the next book, as THAT relationship has me intrigued to know its past and what will happen next.

All in all, I absolutely loved a Beautiful Disguise and definitely recommend it. It had a lovely romance, great characters, AND a thrilling mystery. So good!

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

[Sarita · Rating 3 out of 5]

At the start of a new series, the author delivered another unique plot with unique characters, including a circus, peacocks, and a trained lion.

I found this book a bit slower paced with all the different characters and unique setting being introduced but expect the series to pick up since the backstory was illustrated in book one.

The action at the end was surprising and kept me reading.

I really want to see what the history between Gemma and Graham is, because the few hints given in this book triggered my interest to know what happened.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fiction has forever ruined me when it comes to lions. Oh, sure, I realize they are fearsome, ferocious, predatory animals … and I certainly wouldn’t want to be caught in one’s path. But I also can’t help but see Narnia’s Aslan… or Charlie’s lions from The Lady and the Lionheart … or now Leonidas. I don’t even particularly like cats (lol) but these lions paid no attention to that and worked their way into my heart anyway. The personality that White gave Leonidas made him leap off the page, as lifelike and real as if he were stabled behind my house instead of in a book.

Speaking of leaping… I loved the acrobatic/circus angle to Marigold & Yates’ characters. It’s not something you see in historical fiction all that often, especially when said acrobats are members of the Edwardian peerage. I also thought the way White incorporated their unconventional skills into their roles as ‘The Imposters’ was brilliant, as was the irony behind their private investigation pursuits in the first place. The very thing that left them needing an income at all is also the very thing that fuels their abilities to earn one. Marigold is simply delightful. And so is her brother Yates, for that matter. I could easily spend more time with these two and not tire of their fictional company. They’re warm, engaging, and selfless with great senses of humor and intuition. Merritt is … swoon. He’s a man of integrity and compassion, one of the truly good guys with a compelling faith story to boot. Watching him fall in love with Marigold was a complete pleasure … watching him really see her, as few bothered to do, was even more so.

Bottom Line: A Beautiful Disguise is another example of why Roseanna M. White is one of the most loved authors of Edwardian romance. The unique characters are in a race against time to uncover the truth behind a slew of missing agents of the Crown, and some of the facts they ferret out will twist the story in ways you won’t be expecting. I loved the camaraderie between most of the characters (especially Marigold & Yates and Merritt and Xavier), and I look forward to following the series to see where the author takes the team – and their many layers – next.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first in a new series set in Edwardian England, 1909, features Lady Marigold, who with her brother starts a private detective enterprise to avoid bankruptcy after their father's death. They help the elite spy on high society. They're asked by British secret intelligence to investigate Marigold's best friend's father as a possible traitor, as tensions grow high with Germany. Despite uneven pacing, the witty tale kept me entranced with romance, intrigue, acrobats(!), and gorgeous Edwardian fashion. Highly recommended!

[Rachel McMillan]

from endorsement: There are few things more joyous than stepping into the pages of a Roseanna White novel. A Beautiful Disguise has all of the hallmarks of this beloved author’s resplendent fiction: pitch-perfect historical research, a thrilling setting and perfectly-paced plot and a love story that sparks as wonderfully as Lady Marigold’s effervescent intelligence and charm. A sheer and unputdownable delight by a true master.

[Robin Hatcher · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75🌟
Audiobook
Unexpected, a little quirky, and fun. The heroine is secretly an investigator from the peerage. She and her brother, the earl, are impoverished but determined. The military hero was just perfect for her. Together they foil an attempt to begin a war. I will read more books in this series.

Robin’s Ratings
5🌟 = Out of this world. Amazing. Unforgettable. A personal favorite.
4🌟 = Loved it. Will recommend to others.
3🌟 = Glad I read it. Will probably read more by this author.
2🌟 = The book was okay, but I’ve enjoyed others so much more.
1🌟 = I didn’t like it and can’t recommend it.

[Lou Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review: A Beautiful Disguise by Roseanna M. White — Story enjoyment rating 10/10 Christian Faith Rating 2/3

I loved this book!

A Beautiful Disguise by Roseanna M. White is a Christian historical mystery and romance story that may become my favourite book of the year.

The story centres on Lady Marigold, a character whose flamboyant attire serves as a smokescreen for her real occupation at the Imposters, a private detective agency catering to the wealthy elite. Alongside her brother, Marigold, takes on this clandestine job to sustain their ancestral home.

I loved the main character, Marigold. She struggled to maintain her social facade whilst navigating the dangers of her true occupation.

The spy plot has multiple layers of mystery and secrets. The romance plot showed the characters’ flaws and insecurities, as well as their strengths.

The characters’ faith was integrated into their lives, guiding their decisions, but it was not the major plot line of the story.

The ending was well executed, tying up the various plot threads in a satisfying and exciting way.

[Anne (In Search of Wonder) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐

It was good but not my favorite by this author. Ultimately I think there was just too much going on and I never felt really connected to the main characters like I normally expect to be in a book by her. I struggled a little bit with the improbability of some of the things that happened.

But it was a fun read, and definitely a creative premise. Besides which, it was incredibly and impressively well researched.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this start to a new series by Roseanna M White. A Beautiful Disguise has unique characters and a unique plot, which is what I’ve come to expect from Roseanna. This plot involves spies, mysterious messages, retired circus animals, bold fashion choices, lifelong friendships, an undercover business, and a touch of romance all set in the Edwardian era. I enjoyed how everything came together. The plot kind of took its time in the beginning, with a lot of background information. Things did pick up speed about halfway through, and I could hardly put the book down when real life called! The twist surprised me as well- I don’t think I could have guessed it. I was also glad when the romance picked up; it still wasn’t the main plot point in the second half of the book, but was folded neatly in with the mystery. One cool thing- my son shares his middle name with one of the main characters! Yates was my husband’s grandfather’s name, and is our son’s middle name. So it was neat to read a book with such a rare name used on a main character. I enjoyed this story, and am really looking forward to the next in the series!

[Cait | GoodeyReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Bethany House Fiction for the eARC.

ENJOYABLE.

BLOG || INSTAGRAM

I had a good time with this one!

The mystery was intriguing and I liked how it all played out. Things kept twisting just enough that I kept wondering how it would all work out in the end.

I also really liked the cast of characters too. It’s multi-POV and each angle added to the story. I especially loved having both Merritt and Marigold’s views as they were the main couple of this book. I would have LOVED even a little bit more romance, but I did love the sweet moments they had. Especially how Merritt handled some information that could have resulted poorly. I loooove a reasonable man.

There were some openings for sequels to this that I would like to read too! More romantic plot lines are there and there’s always room for more mysteries.

Overall audience notes:
- Historical Mystery + Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: moderate
- Trigger/Content Warnings: gun violence, murder, grief, loss of a sibling (side character)

[Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

You can read all of my books at Nerd Girl Loves Books.

This is an interesting and twisty Edwardian historical fiction romance/mystery. Lady Marigold and her younger brother Yates inherited a fun, albeit bankrupt, estate from their father. To pay the bills, they formed an anonymous exclusive detective agency serving the elite of England. Sir Merritt is working in the War Office precursor to MI5 when an agent goes missing after leaving a one word missive - the name of a connected nobleman. He retains Marigold and Yates' agency to find out information he's not able to discover on his own. Will the trio uncover a traitorous plot that threatens England in time?

I really loved Marigold and Yates. The family they've built together with the retired circus families and animals is so unique and I got a kick reading about all of the animals, especially the lion and monkey. The way they use the skills they learned from the circus in performing their investigation was unique and fun to read.

I could sympathize with Merritt's health concerns and feeling like less of a soldier because he still needed to heal. I feel like his friend Xavier and Marigold handled this well and kept his spirits up without letting him feel as though he's being pitied. While I liked he and Marigold's budding romance, it seemed a bit spotty on details and so when they got together it seemed a bit rushed. But, that's a minor detail. One thing that I'm not used to reading in mysteries is so many references to religion and praying. It isn't heavy-handed or off-putting, it was just a surprise.

This is a slow burn mystery, but I didn't mind because it's the first book in a series, so the author needed to do a lot of worldbuilding. I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more books in the series.

I was given a complimentary e-copy of this book by Austenprose PR and Baker Publishing Group/ Bethany House Division. All opinions are my own.

[MJSH · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I want you to focus on your attitude when things seem not to be going your way, not on simply changing the circumstances that so displease you.”

Espionage, intrigue, and secrets abound in this beautifully crafted historical fiction set in pre-WWI Edwardian England (1909). Roseanna M White’s gift of weaving intricate, engaging plots and creating charming, lovable characters shines so clearly in this book that kicks off her new series Imposters. Marigold and Merritt stole my heart with their backstories and sparkling souls; the surprises in the plot had me gasping at parts and the romance was sweet and tender. I loved learning about the beginnings of MI5 in England and other countries’ spy networks during this era. Menagerie of circus animals as well as circus retirees living with Marigold and Yates added flare and uniqueness to the setting.

I am super excited about continuing in the Imposters’ journey! Yates, Gemma, and Graham should have fascinating stories of their own and I’m looking forward to some more excellent spy intrigue.

I received complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House Publishing and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

[Suzan · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Marigold worked hard to only be seen as she wished to be seen. To hide behind that costume and mask, just like she’d accused. No one ever saw beneath it. No one but him.”

This book was a delight! It’s a story full of secrets, mystery, deception, intrigue, and a bit of romance. The mystery was really enjoyable with some twists and unexpected turns.

I thought the characters were quite compelling, and I loved the brother and sister relationship. Marigold’s struggle to find her identity as she led a double life felt realistic and believable, and I loved that Merritt could see what no one else did about the woman she really was.

This was a wonderful beginning to The Imposter Series and I’m looking forward to the next book.

Many thanks to the Roseanna White, Bethany House Fiction, and Austenprose PR for a gifted copy!

[Brittnee · Rating 5 out of 5]

-Multi POVs (Marigold, Yates and Merritt)
-Acrobat investigators
-Siblings and found family
-Faith

Loved this book! I love how this author's female characters (in her other series too) have abilities/skills/jobs that were unusual for the time period and not the norm. She also adds humor to the mystery.

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Beautiful Disguise is a beautiful beginning to the new series of The Imposters. I love the clever concept of spying on the elites of London in 1909 in order to maintain their place in society and the menagerie that was their father’s legacy to them. The descriptive writing has you visualizing the animals, Lady Marigold on the trapeze in the countryside and in her flamboyant fashions at the balls of London, and the Imposters as they spy to find out secrets. The intrigue keeps you on your toes like a tight rope walker as you try to figure out the twists and turns of who is the informant to Germany. The romance that develops between Lady Marigold and Sir Merritt Livingston was so heartwarming and kept me turning pages to discover the outcome. I love the lesser characters of the Imposters and look forward to reading more of their secrets that make them tick. This booked ticked my boxes of requirements that make up a great read, which are inspirational, romance, intriguing, and mysterious. Pick up a copy and place on your must read list now pile.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher/author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[eyes.2c · Rating 4 out of 5]

Protecting the home front

Interesting story above an unusual brother and sister from the top echelons of Edwardian English society, Lady Marigold and her brother Lord Yates, Earl of Fairfax. Upon their father’s death they find that he had spent all their funds and more on the joyous thrills he had surrounded himself, and them with.
Their response was to cover up their scarcity of funds and dive into becoming detectives for a price. Imposters Ltd. is born.
Together with their closely knit dependants they maintain the outward appearance of solvency. Lady Marigold is always sublimely dressed, amazing hats, shoes and gowns. (From reworked wear from an attic full of startling clothing and bolts of fabric.)
Their father had a circus resting at Fairfax Towers in Northumberland, and that continues, along with the menagerie of animals collected. The expense of maintaining their animals is no small amount.
The siblings are committed to their care. They have learned to use the trapeze, balance, and climb (all prerequisites for what they do now)
By word of mouth their investigative powers are becoming known. Now they have been engaged by Lt. Colonel Sir Merritt Livingston, part of the newly formed Intelligence Agency to investigate their neighbor Lord Hemming. Coincidentally they are hired by Genie Ballantine over her missing brother Cornelius.
Lady Marigold wants to find out more about Merrit. They know little of him.
The threat of growing German unrest, the threat of their disguise being unmasked, and the threat of powerful forces at play are real. As is treason and betrayal.
Undergirding all this is the strong belief in God that the siblings have. We are also given some of the tale of how Merritt came to a decision about the Christian faith. Interesting, especially as it’s pretty much hinted at that Marigold would not contemplate being involved with anyone who was not a believer.
An tale with many moving parts that quietly fascinates.
Although, I’m at a loss as to why the siblings felt it important to cover up the reality of their situation, especially given their faith. Still it did keep them in circles they needed to be in, enabling them to work in secret.

A Bethany House ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)