Due to a sudden, unexpected passing in the family a few years ago and another more recently and my subsequent (mental) health issues stemming from that, I was unable to download this book in time to review it before it was archived as I did not visit this site for several years after the bereavements. This meant I didn't read or venture onto netgalley for years as not only did it remind me of that person as they shared my passion for reading, but I also struggled to maintain interest in anything due to overwhelming depression. I was therefore unable to download this title in time and so I couldn't give a review as it wasn't successfully acquired before it was archived. The second issue that has happened with some of my other books is that I had them downloaded to one particular device and said device is now defunct, so I have no access to those books anymore, sadly.

This means I can't leave an accurate reflection of my feelings towards the book as I am unable to read it now and so I am leaving a message of explanation instead. I am now back to reading and reviewing full time as once considerable time had passed I have found that books have been helping me significantly in terms of my mindset and mental health - this was after having no interest in anything for quite a number of years after the passings. Anything requested and approved will be read and a review written and posted to Amazon (where I am a Hall of Famer & Top Reviewer), Goodreads (where I have several thousand friends and the same amount who follow my reviews) and Waterstones (or Barnes & Noble if the publisher is American based). Thank you for the opportunity and apologies for the inconvenience.

Things unfold very quickly at the start of this historical thriller. It lays the foundation for what's to come, and sets the stage for Edward to turn spy. It was easy to get lost in this story, there's enough action to keep the plot moving along, but it doesn't over saturate the book. Full of intrigue and referencing real historical events at times, this was clearly well researched and is definitely well written. Absolutely recommend for historical fiction lovers.

The Reversible Mask was a pleasure to read. It takes place during the summer of 1566 It is a time of celebration, prosperity and new explorations. However, one person is not so thrilled.

A great historical novel with twists and turns leaving wanting more.

A really good mystery/spy novel i finished in one sitting, the story was intriguing, the characters believable and engaging. I recommend for any mystery lover

I finished it! Yay me!!!!

Let me first say that my tardiness in finishing it is entirely down to me, and not in any way the fault of the book or author.

This is the story of Sir Edward Latham, catholic courtier to Elizabeth I when the story opens. He soon finds himself in a quandary as to whether he is comfortable hiding his faith to keep up his position or should stand up for catholicism. In the event he decides to do neither and hops the border to Scotland, where his friend Darnley is, if not King, then certainly King-ish, having married Mary, Queen of Scots, that famous historical idiot, though my opinion may be controversial (don't care if it is, I think she was an idiot!).

I think we all know how that particular marriage turned out, so Edward soon finds himself working as a spy in Europe, attempting to help Mary regain her throne while spying for the catholic governments of Europe against the emerging Protestant nations.

His travels take him from Scotland to Spain, France, Italy, the early Netherlands, fighting to free themselves from Spanish rule, and even Constantinople. Along the way his views are put to the test and he is forced to look carefully at his position, especially as his family still live in England under Protestant rule. Will be remain a spy for the Catholics or risk his life returning to England? I won't give that one away, go to Amazon or wherever, get your own copy and enjoy!

I'm not at all sure about the title - somehow the word 'reversible' feels modern to me. I have no doubt it was used at the time, it just feels wrong somehow. That apart, it's a nicely written book from an unusual perspective (especially as the hero is bisexual), and clips along at a good pace. You do occasionally feel like he needs a slap, but I think that is intentional. The sense of time and place is excellent, even for a fusspot like me! I look forward to more from this author.

Readers should expect to give up weekend plans once they start this novel...A great choice for historical fiction fans, mystery readers, or anyone seeking well-crafted stories in which good triumphs over evil.

I have to say straight out: Loretta Goldberg’s The Reversible Mask is one of the best-written books I’ve read for a very long time.

It’s billed as a historical mystery but it’s much more than that, the journey of a soul in troubled times. Edward Latham is a Catholic at the court of Queen Elizabeth I but, unable to reconcile his beliefs with his service at court, he flees to Scotland to offer his service to (Catholic) Queen Mary. But Scotland is as unstable as England is unsafe and it’s only the beginning of Edward’s adventures.

As he careers around Europe in the service of various Catholic powers we learn about his life and his loves, his good side and his bad. The portrayal of the battles between his heart and his head, his faith versus his inherent allegiance to his country, all make for a sensitive and, in the end, compelling portrayal.

I say “in the end” because this book isn’t without its weaknesses and the middle section seemed to drag for me, to the extent that I almost gave up on the book. It was a section where Edward is in Constantinople pursuing information on the Ottoman Empire’s trade policies, and while this isn’t quite as dull as it sounds it’s certainly a section where there’s relatively little action. The main part of it is Edward’s romantic adventure with the man who seems the love of his life, but the section is too long a lull in what’s otherwise an action story. (There is an scene where Edward and his servant disguise themselves as a camel, but that was all the action, and I found it more than a little unbelievable).

I feel a bit mean criticising the book in this way, especially given that Goldberg’s writing is so deliciously inventive and luxuriant, but the best books marry plot, pace and character in the perfect balance and for me this book didn’t quite deliver in this respect. It’s definitely one I’d recommend, though.

Thanks to Netgalley and Madeglobal Publishing for a copy of this book in return for an honest review.

Immediately upon reading the description i knew i couldn't wait to read the book. I am fascinated by the period in which the book is set, at the cusp of the scientific revolution, marked by political change and scientific discoveries. I also enjoy well researched books, with a slower pace, that don't succumb to the current trend of developing twists for twists sake and unrealistic character developments. What we have is an erudite novel, with an eye to the nuances of the historical context, that does not use history as a pretext for the plot,

This was a complimentary copy from netgalley - many thanks

I love historical fiction and this was a real treat

I have not previously read any of this author's work but was impressed. This is well written, great well rounded - great attention to detail.

If historical fiction is your bag with a bit of mystery thrown in then this is one for you!!

This was an interesting take on a often portrayed period. There have been many "spy novels" set during the Elizabethan Period however this one feels more period-correct than most of them and avoids many modern stereotypes of that era. When I was reading this book, I felt as if I was there, connected to the characters, waiting to see what would happen next as if I were watching a close friend.

The Reversible Mask is a good historical novel that will keep your attention. Well written and interesting characters.

Oxford in 1566 and Sir Edward Latham, at 22 years of age and a Catholic in Queen Elizabeth's Protestant England, is at a crossroads in his life. His decision to flee England for Scotland and his friend Henry Stuart, Lord Darnley, results in him becoming a spy for Queen Mary on the Continent.
An interesting historical fiction story, with all its intrigue during this time of upheaval and war. One of my favourite times in history.