** Sigh ** What can I say other then . . . What a splendid story full of action and intrigue, mystery and suspense, longing and love. It's a clean regency historic read that throws you straight into the action and drama of the storyline as Elizabeth wakes up in her overturned carriage to her baby crying. She looks up and discovers the man trying to help her from the accident is none other than the highwayman who caused it. Can you say nightmare?!?
It only gets better from there as it is uncovered that the highwayman is is really an undercover spy and since he kinda ruined her already sullied reputation, her proposes marriage (I promise it makes more sense in the book). From here, it a case of murder by poisoning, attempted murder, several threats, and a kidnapping that follow this short marriage. But what may have started out as a shield against the naysayers, soon turns into something more as both Elizabeth and Adrian learn to trust each other and heal from their pasts.
It's a great blend of who-done-it and historic romance, action and suspense. The characters are on point and I feel my heart yearning for these characters to have "something real". Silly, I know, but great book make you feel so I call it a win.

** I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review. **

I've been waiting for Torrington's book after the first two books and it an absolutely incredible and fantastic book!

In this book, we know both the main characters as secondary characters from previous books, and what great characters they are! Elizabeth is awesome, she's kind but still feisty in a way that wants to get to the bottom of the mystery to keep those she loves (and is starting to love) safe. Adrian is fantastic too as we get to know him, fearless until those he cares about are in danger and kindhearted in ways that become clear as the book progresses.

The mystery itself was well done. I did guess correctly who was behind it toward the middle of the book but that didn't take away any enjoyment of reading the book, as with the previous two, Abigail Wilson's strengths as a writer are the details of the plot and her characterizations. Spot on here, including with her mostly lovely secondary characters. There are some nicely done historical elements making it clear it's set during the Regency period; accurate historical details are always a plus in historical fiction/mysteries. The message of forgiveness was lovely but not overbearing if that's not your cup of tea.

One continuity thing I noticed only because I just finished a re-read of 'Midnight on the River Grey' before I read this (my memory isn't that good!) is Torrington was an Earl in that book, here he's a Baron.

Abigail Wilson has become an absolutely must-read author for me and I can't wait to see what she comes up with next!

I really enjoyed Masquerade at Middlecrest Abbey. I couldn't wait to get my hands on it. And y'all, it was worth the wait. This Victorian era tale included mystery, danger, and what I loved the most was a marriage of convenience. Wonderful characters and great plot. I recommend to all history loving romance readers.
4.5 stars
*I was given a copy of this book by Thomas Nelson Publishers and this is my honest opinion.