The Bastard

In LaViolette’s suspenseful and seductive third Masqueraders Regency romance (after The Postilion), the spotlight turns on to John Fielding, a wealthy, standoffish merchant with a dark secret. Bleak and often bloody flashbacks reveal John’s criminal past, chronicling the abuse and violence he faced as a youth, while in the present he’s consumed by his desire for vengeance against those who wronged him. His mission may be derailed, however, by his growing attraction to Cordelia Page, an upper-class spinster he first glimpses while she’s protecting a stray dog from abuse. Though Cordelia and John initially seem a mismatched pair, LaViolette develops their relationship beautifully, with Cordelia drawing a besotted but often bemused John into emotional intimacy, and John introducing Cordelia to passion and pleasure. John’s harsh, scarred facade hides a playful sense of humor, a strong desire for justice, and an unexpected penchant for kindness. He has a cheerful, compassionate, and gently teasing foil in Cordelia, though the extent of her understanding and forgiveness occasionally strains credulity. Meanwhile, as John’s hunt for revenge turns violent, mysterious adversaries make attempts on his life, though the sheer number of close calls blunts their emotional impact. Still, the impressive balance of intrigue, romance, and sensuality makes this a memorable and worthy continuation of the series. (Self-published)