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Lord Hawkesbury's Players #3
To Tempt the Devil
He’s dark and dangerous…and she can’t stay away… Seven years have passed since Rafe Fletcher fled London. Now he has returned to make amends, only to find his brother, James, bound for debtors’ prison. Unable to clear James’s debts, Rafe does the next best thing, promising to watch over his brother’s betrothed in his absence. There’s just one the shy, sweet girl he once knew has grown into an alluring young woman—one who wants absolutely nothing to do with a man like him. Lizzy Croft isn’t fooled by Rafe’s dark good looks; she remembers all too well the hot-headed rogue he once was. But when Lizzy is framed for murder, she has no choice but to trust the man who once beat his brutish stepfather half to death, the man whose recent past is shrouded in mystery—the man who is slowly, inexorably winning her heart. Loving him would be the greatest risk of all…
278 pages, Paperback
First published November 27, 2012
156 people are currently reading
779 people want to read
About the author
C.J. Archer
95 books5,606 followersC.J. Archer is the USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of historical mystery and historical fantasy novels including the GLASS AND STEELE series, the CLEOPATRA FOX MYSTERIES, the MINISTRY OF CURIOSITIES and THE GLASS LIBRARY series.
She has loved history and books for as long as she can remember and feels fortunate that she found a way to combine the two. She has at various times worked as a librarian, IT support person and technical writer but in her heart has always been a fiction writer. She lives in Melbourne, Australia, with her husband, 2 children and Coco the black and white cat.
Subscribe to C.J.'s newsletter to be notified when she releases a new book. Join via her website: www.cjarcher.com
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She has loved history and books for as long as she can remember and feels fortunate that she found a way to combine the two. She has at various times worked as a librarian, IT support person and technical writer but in her heart has always been a fiction writer. She lives in Melbourne, Australia, with her husband, 2 children and Coco the black and white cat.
Subscribe to C.J.'s newsletter to be notified when she releases a new book. Join via her website: www.cjarcher.com
You can follow her on social media to get the latest updates on her books:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/CJArcherAuthorPage
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorcjarc...
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
November 4, 2016
4.5 Stars!
This was another enjoyable read from C. J. Archer. Just the right amount of action and intrigue with romance.
This was another enjoyable read from C. J. Archer. Just the right amount of action and intrigue with romance.
November 1, 2012
This was a good novel, although not overly spectacular. It was an easy read, and the storyline was interesting enough to keep suspense for the reader until the end.
The love interest that developed between Lizzy and Rafe was intriging, especially as Lizzy finds herself falling in love with a man that she is afraid of. It was difficult for Rafe to proove to Lizzy that he was not the man his reputation would cast him as, and that Lizzy can trust him entirely. Of course trust is a two-way street, and the two must learn to lean on each other when being framed for murder throws them on the run together.
One thing I want to note about this novel is that it seems irrelevant to me that this novel is set in the Elizabethan era. It doesn't seem to have anything to do with the story itself, apart from the brief mentioning of Queen Elizabeth on a few occasions, and the inclusion of William Shakespeare as a minor character. Neither one of these things add much to the story however and so I wonder why the author chose Elizabethan England and not, for example, the Restoration era of Charles II.
All in all though this is a light-hearted read that will keep you entertained for a few hours on a rainy day.
The love interest that developed between Lizzy and Rafe was intriging, especially as Lizzy finds herself falling in love with a man that she is afraid of. It was difficult for Rafe to proove to Lizzy that he was not the man his reputation would cast him as, and that Lizzy can trust him entirely. Of course trust is a two-way street, and the two must learn to lean on each other when being framed for murder throws them on the run together.
One thing I want to note about this novel is that it seems irrelevant to me that this novel is set in the Elizabethan era. It doesn't seem to have anything to do with the story itself, apart from the brief mentioning of Queen Elizabeth on a few occasions, and the inclusion of William Shakespeare as a minor character. Neither one of these things add much to the story however and so I wonder why the author chose Elizabethan England and not, for example, the Restoration era of Charles II.
All in all though this is a light-hearted read that will keep you entertained for a few hours on a rainy day.
May 11, 2025
Holy Guacamole!
I loved this book! Loved it! Favorite of the series. Already want to re-read it. The whole reason I went back to read the Hawkesbury players before continuing in the assassin's guild series, is because Rafe made a little cameo in the first book. That is all I needed to read this series. And now that I have read this book, it was all worth it. Rafe is everything!
He was charming, funny, interesting, kind! And a tragic backstory. I loved him! And Lizzy was a doll! Everything about her from her naivete to her good heart. I just wish there were more books on these two. I don't know what else to say except to gush over it.
I loved this book! Loved it! Favorite of the series. Already want to re-read it. The whole reason I went back to read the Hawkesbury players before continuing in the assassin's guild series, is because Rafe made a little cameo in the first book. That is all I needed to read this series. And now that I have read this book, it was all worth it. Rafe is everything!
He was charming, funny, interesting, kind! And a tragic backstory. I loved him! And Lizzy was a doll! Everything about her from her naivete to her good heart. I just wish there were more books on these two. I don't know what else to say except to gush over it.
February 22, 2013
Very run of the mill historical romance. The writing was not exceptionally clever and the romance was paint by numbers. The obstacle to overcome was very much manufactured by both parties and there are some much simpler solutions than the less than legal ones employed.
Lizzie was a nice girl, interesting but very Mary Sue. Rage was not nearly the brute/devil that he was supposed to be, except when needed by the plot. I was left a little cold by
Lizzie was a nice girl, interesting but very Mary Sue. Rage was not nearly the brute/devil that he was supposed to be, except when needed by the plot. I was left a little cold by
September 5, 2023
forced proximity while you’re in hiding after being accused of a murder you didn’t commit am i right ladies
February 16, 2014
A 99p purchase that was worth just that amount. This is a low three.
What did I like here? The idea of a series of historical romances all set within the orbit of a group of Elizabethan players, with each book following a different main character. There was also ACTION and DISGUISES. Bonus points for showing off that you know phrases like "tiring house" and "hue and cry".
What didn't I like? Another reviewer here has summed it up perfectly. The romance itself is paint-by-numbers (you could get fairly drunk playing a romantic-novel-buzzword drinking game with this as your text (which, by the way, is a really excellent idea, now that I think of it)), and the obstacles to love are mainly the result of the kind of misunderstanding and lack of communication which leads to "hilarity" in programmes like Curb Your Enthusiasm, which I hate.
Will I read another one? Probably not.
Am I a heartless curmudgeon with no romance in my soul? Maybe. It has been suggested before.
What did I like here? The idea of a series of historical romances all set within the orbit of a group of Elizabethan players, with each book following a different main character. There was also ACTION and DISGUISES. Bonus points for showing off that you know phrases like "tiring house" and "hue and cry".
What didn't I like? Another reviewer here has summed it up perfectly. The romance itself is paint-by-numbers (you could get fairly drunk playing a romantic-novel-buzzword drinking game with this as your text (which, by the way, is a really excellent idea, now that I think of it)), and the obstacles to love are mainly the result of the kind of misunderstanding and lack of communication which leads to "hilarity" in programmes like Curb Your Enthusiasm, which I hate.
Will I read another one? Probably not.
Am I a heartless curmudgeon with no romance in my soul? Maybe. It has been suggested before.
January 20, 2020
There may be a few spoilers.
This was the last of the Lord Hawkesbury’s Players. It is set 9 (I think?) years after the events in the first two books and follows Alice’s younger sister, Lizzy. She has taken over for Alice as her father’s apprentice in the tiring house. At this point, he is the manager in name only as Lizzy has taken over his duties. Her plans to marry her best friend, James, are foiled when he declines her proposal. He doesn’t want to tell her her is off to debtors prison and leaves her in the care of his older half brother, Rafe who recently retuned to London after being gone for several years. She is wary of him at first.
Due to a series of unfortunate events, Lizzy and Rafe are blamed for murder and go on the run. Hiding in plain site, using a myriad of disguises, they search for the true murderer.
The sexual tension between Rafe and Lizzy is high in this book. There is a sex scene that is a bit drawn out. I think it is more detailed then the first two books. As with the first two books, this is not safe for children.
I like seeing the Players again and was happy to see Blake played a part in helping Lizzy and Rafe. I enjoyed hearing about Blake and Min’s family as well as the snippets of how Lord and Lady Warhurst are doing. It’s brief but fun. All in all it was an okay book. Not my favorite but not the worst I have read.
This was the last of the Lord Hawkesbury’s Players. It is set 9 (I think?) years after the events in the first two books and follows Alice’s younger sister, Lizzy. She has taken over for Alice as her father’s apprentice in the tiring house. At this point, he is the manager in name only as Lizzy has taken over his duties. Her plans to marry her best friend, James, are foiled when he declines her proposal. He doesn’t want to tell her her is off to debtors prison and leaves her in the care of his older half brother, Rafe who recently retuned to London after being gone for several years. She is wary of him at first.
Due to a series of unfortunate events, Lizzy and Rafe are blamed for murder and go on the run. Hiding in plain site, using a myriad of disguises, they search for the true murderer.
The sexual tension between Rafe and Lizzy is high in this book. There is a sex scene that is a bit drawn out. I think it is more detailed then the first two books. As with the first two books, this is not safe for children.
I like seeing the Players again and was happy to see Blake played a part in helping Lizzy and Rafe. I enjoyed hearing about Blake and Min’s family as well as the snippets of how Lord and Lady Warhurst are doing. It’s brief but fun. All in all it was an okay book. Not my favorite but not the worst I have read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2022
I have read the attached history of C.J. ARCHER and am quite astounded she has sold so many books, as I found this novel only just passable.
If you were shipwrecked on an island somewhere, it would be ideal, but as a story to read today in a suburban setting, definitely a no from me.
And to be honest, I did not bother to finish. The opening chapters were so drawn out and boring, and when I read a precis of the book it was the same old story.....she is in love with one but falls for the handsome, returned brother...........
I do acknowledge ARCHER may have done considerable research, and I not she has also written other historical novels, but this fell short for me.
I do not recommend, but expect if you are an ARCHER follower it will be 'right up your tree.'
If you were shipwrecked on an island somewhere, it would be ideal, but as a story to read today in a suburban setting, definitely a no from me.
And to be honest, I did not bother to finish. The opening chapters were so drawn out and boring, and when I read a precis of the book it was the same old story.....she is in love with one but falls for the handsome, returned brother...........
I do acknowledge ARCHER may have done considerable research, and I not she has also written other historical novels, but this fell short for me.
I do not recommend, but expect if you are an ARCHER follower it will be 'right up your tree.'
January 17, 2024
Another suspenseful tale…
The only thing better than reading the stories from Ms Archer is listening to them on Audible performed by Ms. Hussey. I now search Audible for stories by performer as well as author. This third and last book in the trilogy again brings together a ragged band of performers and other characters who have been with us through two other books. The new characters we meet are as alive and exciting as the other leading roles. I am so glad to have finished this third book, but so sad for it to end. Like a great series, you always want MORE! Read and listen to Ms Archer and Ms. Hussey’s stories..you will be hooked. Ive read and listened to many of them several times and still love them…highly recommend!
The only thing better than reading the stories from Ms Archer is listening to them on Audible performed by Ms. Hussey. I now search Audible for stories by performer as well as author. This third and last book in the trilogy again brings together a ragged band of performers and other characters who have been with us through two other books. The new characters we meet are as alive and exciting as the other leading roles. I am so glad to have finished this third book, but so sad for it to end. Like a great series, you always want MORE! Read and listen to Ms Archer and Ms. Hussey’s stories..you will be hooked. Ive read and listened to many of them several times and still love them…highly recommend!
April 26, 2020
I love CJ Archer's books. She has a great writing style and she does a fantastic job from beginning to end. I only gave 3 stars because, this book didn't quite live up to my own expectations. I fell in love with Book 1, and while this book was good, it just didn't do it for me like the first book in the series.
March 14, 2022
Enjoyable
Very enjoyable series. Was sad to see this was the end of the series. I feel that all the story lines were tied up but, at the same time felt it had an abrupt ending. This third story was very enjoyable with the characters being endearing as always. I would love more books with all the characters from this series.
Very enjoyable series. Was sad to see this was the end of the series. I feel that all the story lines were tied up but, at the same time felt it had an abrupt ending. This third story was very enjoyable with the characters being endearing as always. I would love more books with all the characters from this series.
April 7, 2019
Excellent
I liked this book the most out of the series. It had action, a gorgeous H and a feisty h. Only a little sex towards the end of the book but lots of romance. I wonder whose HEA will be featured in the next book?
I liked this book the most out of the series. It had action, a gorgeous H and a feisty h. Only a little sex towards the end of the book but lots of romance. I wonder whose HEA will be featured in the next book?
June 14, 2019
I love CJ Archer! This whole series was difficult for me to enjoy but this one was the worst. Maybe because I listened on Audible instead of actually reading it? I don’t know but it doesn’t really fit in with the rest of the series. Not my favorite.
July 8, 2019
This ties Lord Hawkesburry's Players to the Assassins Guild, and the two mediocre series are meant for each other.
Disjointed sense of place. Inconsistent character behavior that doesn't show growth, just expediency in getting the characters to the right resolution for the extraordinary predictable story arc.
Disjointed sense of place. Inconsistent character behavior that doesn't show growth, just expediency in getting the characters to the right resolution for the extraordinary predictable story arc.
June 1, 2017
Great read
As usual, it grabs you and won't let go. Not usually my kind of book, I am addicted to the stories.
As usual, it grabs you and won't let go. Not usually my kind of book, I am addicted to the stories.
October 10, 2019
Another great book by CJ Archer
November 12, 2019
Brilliant conclusion to this series.
Full of twists and turns. Loved it!
Full of twists and turns. Loved it!
June 16, 2021
Derde deel van een serie schattige historische romannetjes met een theaterachtergrond.
Korte bespreking: https://alimolenaar.nl/stukjes/theate...
Korte bespreking: https://alimolenaar.nl/stukjes/theate...
July 30, 2021
I read this book under a different title, A Forbidden Life.
September 2, 2023
I was a little skeptical to read this one bc it was the most distant from the cast of characters we fell in love with in books one and two but it was probably the best of the batch!
March 5, 2024
*** 289
Pages A great book. Love C J ARCHER the author
Pages A great book. Love C J ARCHER the author
July 17, 2024
A great little escape and story to listen to in the background or just for fun. Set up C.J Archer’s series called the Assassin’s Guild quite nicely.
January 21, 2025
Excellent book, my favorite from the series! I do love them all and would love to see more and this series,. Strong characters, lots of suspense & romance. Don’t miss it!
September 26, 2025
Engaging, spicy level 2, some language
March 9, 2017
A - I loved that this was set in Elizabethan London - not many books are
B - I really enjoyed the adventure
C - The slow burn of the romance was excellent - as was the end conclusion of the romance
D - Well written
E - Really liked that the h/h were poor and 'normal' people (as opposed to a Duke and a Lady)
F - Great descriptions of the clothes and the food of around 1600 and I felt I was really reading about that time
G - Stand alone story - although they knew/were related to the characters from the last 2 books and a couple made appearances as minor characters.
B - I really enjoyed the adventure
C - The slow burn of the romance was excellent - as was the end conclusion of the romance
D - Well written
E - Really liked that the h/h were poor and 'normal' people (as opposed to a Duke and a Lady)
F - Great descriptions of the clothes and the food of around 1600 and I felt I was really reading about that time
G - Stand alone story - although they knew/were related to the characters from the last 2 books and a couple made appearances as minor characters.
November 29, 2012
TO TEMPT THE DEVIL is the third storyline (November 2012 release) in CJ Archer’s Lord Hawkesbury’s Players series. The Hawkesbury Players series focuses on the players and behind the scenes members of an acting company in Elizabethan England. Although this is the third novel in the series and many of the players were established in the first two storylines, it can be read as a standalone without too much difficulty. To Tempt the Devil is a romantic suspense novel with a mystery to be solved.
Rafe Fletcher returns to his boyhood home after seven years only to discover his younger half-brother James is facing imprisonment for not paying his debts. Unable to secure a source of income, James leaves on his own accord but not before asking Rafe to look after the beautiful Lizzy Croft. Lizzy and James had an agreement, of sorts, to marry out of duty and love, but the love for each other was innocent and pure.
Rafe has always been attracted to Lizzy but knowing his brother was ‘betrothed’ to Lizzy made it more difficult-she was forbidden. But Rafe’s life has been hard. As a hired assassin he carries many secrets and one has caught up with him at home. To protect himself as well as his friends, Rafe must hunt down the man he once thought was dead.
Lizzy works as a seamstress with the Lord Hawkesbury Players, but her income and livelihood are threatened when a personal vendetta between the Troupe owner and sponsor hangs over the actors and their friends. The ensemble of actors is close, with each supporting the others. Lizzy takes it upon herself to face the man responsible for the possible demise of the company, but her heartfelt plea for understanding will find both she and Rafe on the run for a murder they did not commit.
Rafe and Lizzy’s attraction to one another is forbidden. Rafe knows that Lizzy is the only woman for him, but she has been promised to his brother James. But James and Lizzy’s relationship is anything but romantic-it is a convenience for both. Lizzy is frightened by and drawn to Rafe who must protect her from herself and the authorities. Lizzy witnessed a brutal beating seven years earlier and continues to replay the scene over and over. And it is this memory that keeps Lizzy from revealing her true feelings to Rafe. And she will discover that her relationship with James was a good excuse to keep Rafe from knocking down the door. But life on the run will find Lizzy and Rafe together, and their growing love for one another heartbreaking and sad knowing that each has betrayed their love for James. I did, however, feel the relationship between Rafe and Lizzy wasn’t as sexual or romantic as it could have been. It felt forced and uneven.
TO TEMPT THE DEVIL is an engaging storyline. There are some humorous moments when Lizzy and Rafe must walk around in disguise and the interaction with the Lord Hawkesbury Players is interesting to read. I want to see Antony find a mate-that should be an interesting storyline especially during the Elizabethan time period. We meet a young Williams Shakespeare and his lover Kate-Kate can be very ‘shrewish’ at times. ;) As for the suspense aspect, the guilty party is obvious from start, but the authorities continue to dog Rafe and Lizzy, and that is the major part of the storyline. CJ Archer has written a wonderful story that will keep your attention.
Copy supplied by the author.
See all of my reviews at : thereadingcafe.com
Rafe Fletcher returns to his boyhood home after seven years only to discover his younger half-brother James is facing imprisonment for not paying his debts. Unable to secure a source of income, James leaves on his own accord but not before asking Rafe to look after the beautiful Lizzy Croft. Lizzy and James had an agreement, of sorts, to marry out of duty and love, but the love for each other was innocent and pure.
Rafe has always been attracted to Lizzy but knowing his brother was ‘betrothed’ to Lizzy made it more difficult-she was forbidden. But Rafe’s life has been hard. As a hired assassin he carries many secrets and one has caught up with him at home. To protect himself as well as his friends, Rafe must hunt down the man he once thought was dead.
Lizzy works as a seamstress with the Lord Hawkesbury Players, but her income and livelihood are threatened when a personal vendetta between the Troupe owner and sponsor hangs over the actors and their friends. The ensemble of actors is close, with each supporting the others. Lizzy takes it upon herself to face the man responsible for the possible demise of the company, but her heartfelt plea for understanding will find both she and Rafe on the run for a murder they did not commit.
Rafe and Lizzy’s attraction to one another is forbidden. Rafe knows that Lizzy is the only woman for him, but she has been promised to his brother James. But James and Lizzy’s relationship is anything but romantic-it is a convenience for both. Lizzy is frightened by and drawn to Rafe who must protect her from herself and the authorities. Lizzy witnessed a brutal beating seven years earlier and continues to replay the scene over and over. And it is this memory that keeps Lizzy from revealing her true feelings to Rafe. And she will discover that her relationship with James was a good excuse to keep Rafe from knocking down the door. But life on the run will find Lizzy and Rafe together, and their growing love for one another heartbreaking and sad knowing that each has betrayed their love for James. I did, however, feel the relationship between Rafe and Lizzy wasn’t as sexual or romantic as it could have been. It felt forced and uneven.
TO TEMPT THE DEVIL is an engaging storyline. There are some humorous moments when Lizzy and Rafe must walk around in disguise and the interaction with the Lord Hawkesbury Players is interesting to read. I want to see Antony find a mate-that should be an interesting storyline especially during the Elizabethan time period. We meet a young Williams Shakespeare and his lover Kate-Kate can be very ‘shrewish’ at times. ;) As for the suspense aspect, the guilty party is obvious from start, but the authorities continue to dog Rafe and Lizzy, and that is the major part of the storyline. CJ Archer has written a wonderful story that will keep your attention.
Copy supplied by the author.
See all of my reviews at : thereadingcafe.com
November 11, 2012
Lovers of historical romance will enjoy a refreshing change of setting in author C.J. Archer's "Lord Hawkesbury's Players" series, which takes place in Elizabethan Era England. In "To Tempt the Devil", Rafe Fletcher looks forward to returning to London and beginning a new phase in his life. Rafe had left his home and family behind seven years ago after his mother's death, and after a fight with his step-father had left the older man almost dead. At first Rafe worked as mercenary, but later he became a skilled, deadly assassin-for-hire in service to the Crown. Eager to find peace and a simpler life, he finds much amiss with the younger half-brother left behind to fend for himself. James and Rafe shared the same mother, but their fathers were quite different. James is now about to be sent to debtor's prison, and he asks Rafe to watch over his presumed intended, Lizzy Croft, and her elderly parents. Lizzy has become a lovely young woman, and she and James have always been the dearest of friends. Around Rafe, she is forever blushing, hesitant to speak, and appearing fearful of him. Yet, she captives him with her innocence and beautiful brown eyes. Lizzy's work with a theatre troop as seamstress and assistant manager helps to pay living expenses for her and her family. However, there are dangerous secrets behind the costumes, makeup, and stage of the theatre, and when Lizzy is framed for murder, Rafe becomes more involved in helping her than he ever imagined. What he can't help is his growing attraction to Lizzy, his brother's lady love--or is she? Lizzy is overwhelmed by Rafe's compelling strength and handsomeness, yet she fears his darker side just the same. Love between them would be betrayal to James, someone whom they both care for, or would it? Will a lifelong friendship give way to the greater pull of passion and perhaps true love? Even The Great Bard himself, William Shakespeare, is compelled to set foot upon this world's stage! Step out of your romance reading comfort zone and step back into a time and place when poets and playwrights were the entertainment superstars of the day. You will enjoy the journey.
Review Copy Gratis Amazon Vine
Review Copy Gratis Amazon Vine
November 27, 2012
Also found at http://sillymelody.blogspot.com
I'm super excited to share this book this morning for a couple of reason: First, I finished it last night and second it came out today. I know cutting it a little short here. However, the main point is I finished the story. YAY!!!!!
Anyways, I don't know how many of you have read any of the Lord Hawkesbury's Players books, but they are pretty interesting read. If you are looking for something set in the Elizabethan time, you've found it with these books.
So, To Tempt the Devil is about the adventures of Elizabeth Croft (Lizzy) and Rafe Fletcher. Rafe has come back to London to start a new life. When Rafe returns he finds his younger brother in a pickle. James asks Rafe to look after Lizzy while he is away. Somehow Lizzy and Rafe end up in serious trouble and have to go into hiding.
Overall, I liked this story. To be honest, you can start by reading this book and catch up with the other two books at another time. The great thing about To Tempt the Devil can be a stand alone story. However, I have read the other two books and enjoyed them. Plus, you do see characters from the other books in To Tempt the Devil.
The main characters are fun to read about. I love how Lizzy is thought as a shy girl, who starts to blossom once she gets to know Rafe. I think Rafe really brings out her true self. Rafe is a true treasure. Here is what I mean, he's the type of guy who will stick up for you when you need someone to defend you. A true hero, even if he has made a couple mistake in his life. And who can forget players they add a touch of humor to a serious situation.
So, if you are looking for a Elizabethan romance with action, murder and mystery look no further than To Tempt the Devil. So, I hope you have a wonderful day and I will talk to you later.
Copy provide by the author
I'm super excited to share this book this morning for a couple of reason: First, I finished it last night and second it came out today. I know cutting it a little short here. However, the main point is I finished the story. YAY!!!!!
Anyways, I don't know how many of you have read any of the Lord Hawkesbury's Players books, but they are pretty interesting read. If you are looking for something set in the Elizabethan time, you've found it with these books.
So, To Tempt the Devil is about the adventures of Elizabeth Croft (Lizzy) and Rafe Fletcher. Rafe has come back to London to start a new life. When Rafe returns he finds his younger brother in a pickle. James asks Rafe to look after Lizzy while he is away. Somehow Lizzy and Rafe end up in serious trouble and have to go into hiding.
Overall, I liked this story. To be honest, you can start by reading this book and catch up with the other two books at another time. The great thing about To Tempt the Devil can be a stand alone story. However, I have read the other two books and enjoyed them. Plus, you do see characters from the other books in To Tempt the Devil.
The main characters are fun to read about. I love how Lizzy is thought as a shy girl, who starts to blossom once she gets to know Rafe. I think Rafe really brings out her true self. Rafe is a true treasure. Here is what I mean, he's the type of guy who will stick up for you when you need someone to defend you. A true hero, even if he has made a couple mistake in his life. And who can forget players they add a touch of humor to a serious situation.
So, if you are looking for a Elizabethan romance with action, murder and mystery look no further than To Tempt the Devil. So, I hope you have a wonderful day and I will talk to you later.
Copy provide by the author
January 27, 2013
Lizzy Croft has a job mending and making costumes for the local theater company and has an agreement to marry her best friend and neighbor, James, eventually. When the future of the theater company becomes uncertain, she tries to convince James to marry her sooner rather than later. But, James refuses. He has some things to take care of that he’d like to keep secret from Lizzy. So he leaves town with the promise to be back as soon as he can. He also leaves her in the care of his older brother, Rafe. Rafe can certainly see Lizzy’s appeal, but Lizzy remembers Rafe from her childhood and she is more than a little afraid of him.
Forced together by unimaginable circumstances Rafe and Lizzy feel the pull of attraction, but try to keep their distance.
I am not sure what to say about this book, except that I wasn’t wowed. It’s not bad by any means; it’s just not fabulous either. The characters, plot, writing…everything was just OK, nothing stood out or really pulled me in. I hadn’t read the other books in this series, and this book really read as a standalone. After reading a book belonging to a series, I normally feel compelled to read the ones that preceded it and the ones that will come after – I don’t in this case.
Fans of the author and this series may feel differently, but to me this was just an average historical romance – I liked reading it, it served its purpose. But it isn’t anything I’d read again or pass on to any friends.
Cherise Everhard, January 2013
Book provided by and reviewed for the Amazon Vine Program
Forced together by unimaginable circumstances Rafe and Lizzy feel the pull of attraction, but try to keep their distance.
I am not sure what to say about this book, except that I wasn’t wowed. It’s not bad by any means; it’s just not fabulous either. The characters, plot, writing…everything was just OK, nothing stood out or really pulled me in. I hadn’t read the other books in this series, and this book really read as a standalone. After reading a book belonging to a series, I normally feel compelled to read the ones that preceded it and the ones that will come after – I don’t in this case.
Fans of the author and this series may feel differently, but to me this was just an average historical romance – I liked reading it, it served its purpose. But it isn’t anything I’d read again or pass on to any friends.
Cherise Everhard, January 2013
Book provided by and reviewed for the Amazon Vine Program
March 16, 2015
This is the first book i’ve read by this author and as such I am coming into this series in the middle or maybe even the end I’m not sure, however, it wasn’t a massive problem and certainly didn’t effect my enjoyment of the book as a whole. The only issues I found with coming in mid-series was some of the pre-existing relationships between various secondary characters were a little confusing at first. Having said that I do find this a difficult book to rate, some elements of To Tempt the Devil I really enjoyed for example:
- A historical book not focused on the aristocracy was a huge positive
- The writing style was very good
- I liked the humour in the book, and the wit of the characters
- William Shakespeare makes an appearance!!! As an English student this made me very happy.
- I thought Rafe was a good character, but then I love hero who everyone thinks are bad but actually are real softies inside.
- I really liked the idea of the story
Unfortunately I also disliked a lot of things about the book:
- The pace was fairly fast and I felt this hindered character development
- I didn’t hate the heroine Lizzy but I definitely didn’t like her! Throughout the book she flip-flopped in her emotions and at times I just - wanted to shout at her to grow a pair. I mean really if you can run away from the law then you can certainly stop being scarred of the hero. Although she redeemed herself in the end this was a problem for me.
- I found Rafe’s brothers James a very irritating and selfish character.
- A historical book not focused on the aristocracy was a huge positive
- The writing style was very good
- I liked the humour in the book, and the wit of the characters
- William Shakespeare makes an appearance!!! As an English student this made me very happy.
- I thought Rafe was a good character, but then I love hero who everyone thinks are bad but actually are real softies inside.
- I really liked the idea of the story
Unfortunately I also disliked a lot of things about the book:
- The pace was fairly fast and I felt this hindered character development
- I didn’t hate the heroine Lizzy but I definitely didn’t like her! Throughout the book she flip-flopped in her emotions and at times I just - wanted to shout at her to grow a pair. I mean really if you can run away from the law then you can certainly stop being scarred of the hero. Although she redeemed herself in the end this was a problem for me.
- I found Rafe’s brothers James a very irritating and selfish character.
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