A Time Traveler’s Masquerade by Sian Ann Bessey: Book Review
Time travel historical romance is quickly becoming one of my favorite subgenres, and A Time Traveler’s Masquerade by Sian Ann Bessey is a perfect example of why. Blending rich historical detail with a slow-burn romance and high-stakes intrigue, this novel transports readers to 1605 England just weeks before the infamous Gunpowder Plot. If you love history, suspense, and romance wrapped up in one, this book is a must-read.
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Synopsis
One moment, Isla Crawford is trying on a Jacobean-style gown for a historical ball; the next, she’s barefoot and coatless in the middle of a storm—in 1605. Seeking refuge in a Tudor manor, Isla quickly realizes she has traveled back in time, landing just weeks before Guy Fawkes’s infamous Gunpowder Plot.
Simon Hartworth, Lord Bancroft, is equally bewildered when Isla appears on his sister’s doorstep, speaking in strange ways and making even stranger claims about an impending catastrophe. As she convinces him of the treasonous plot against Parliament, they must work together to prevent a disaster—without altering history in ways that could change the future forever. But amidst danger and deception, Isla and Simon find themselves facing another impossible challenge: the growing feelings between them, despite the centuries that separate their worlds.
My Thoughts/Review
I’ve read many nonfiction and historical fiction books set in the Jacobean period, but A Time Traveler’s Masquerade was my first historical romance in this era, and I absolutely loved it. The setting was immersive, the stakes were high, and the romance was slow-burn perfection.
One of my favorite aspects was how the story explored the events leading up to November 5th from the perspective of those involved. Seeing the historical figures in action, rather than just as names in a history book, made the story feel all the more real. Bessey’s meticulous research shines through in every detail, from the dialogue to the political climate of the time.
The multiple POVs added depth, allowing us to see both Isla’s modern perspective and Simon’s 17th-century mindset. The fake betrothal trope was a delightful addition, adding tension and chemistry between Isla and Simon. And, of course, the ultimate dilemma—choosing which time period to stay in—had me on edge the entire time.
And that ending? Absolutely perfect. Without spoiling anything, I’ll just say that Bessey crafted a conclusion that was both satisfying and deeply emotional.
Title: A Time Traveler’s Masquerade
Author: Sian Ann Bessey
Genre: Historical Romance
Series: A McQuivey’s Costume Shop Romance
Published: April 1, 2025
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Time Traveler’s Masquerade is a beautifully written novel that seamlessly blends history, romance, and adventure. Whether you’re a fan of time travel stories or historical fiction, this book is a fantastic addition to your TBR.
A huge thank you to Shadow Mountain Publishing and Proper Romance for the gifted copy.
Have you read A Time Traveler’s Masquerade yet? What’s your favorite time travel romance? Let’s chat in the comments!
