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The Devil: The Carter Series
Helena
They say love is blind.
But I wasn’t blind, I knew exactly who Lucius Hastings was; and still, I walked willingly with the man whom they call ‘The Devil’.
I was young, naïve, and arrogant enough to believe I could resist the temptation. I should have known better, should have known that once he had his sights set on me, there would be no way back.
My heart was doomed from the very moment he answered the door with a curse upon his lips.
But ultimately, my father brought me up to be a good girl, and good girls don’t end up with fallen angels.
And yet, deep down, I know I will always be his.
Lucius
She was a temptation I knew I shouldn’t give into.
Pure, innocent, and beautiful; all the qualities one craves when you are damned.
I was told from a young age that I was unworthy of a girl like Helena, and that to stay with her would mean dragging her to hell with me.
And so, I let her go.
I kept my distance, pretended she wasn’t out there living without me, contented by the knowledge that I at least got to have a taste of her. I let her marry someone more worthy so she could lead a happy life full of white picket fences, family BBQs, and children.
But only because, deep down, I know she will always be mine.
They say love is blind.
But I wasn’t blind, I knew exactly who Lucius Hastings was; and still, I walked willingly with the man whom they call ‘The Devil’.
I was young, naïve, and arrogant enough to believe I could resist the temptation. I should have known better, should have known that once he had his sights set on me, there would be no way back.
My heart was doomed from the very moment he answered the door with a curse upon his lips.
But ultimately, my father brought me up to be a good girl, and good girls don’t end up with fallen angels.
And yet, deep down, I know I will always be his.
Lucius
She was a temptation I knew I shouldn’t give into.
Pure, innocent, and beautiful; all the qualities one craves when you are damned.
I was told from a young age that I was unworthy of a girl like Helena, and that to stay with her would mean dragging her to hell with me.
And so, I let her go.
I kept my distance, pretended she wasn’t out there living without me, contented by the knowledge that I at least got to have a taste of her. I let her marry someone more worthy so she could lead a happy life full of white picket fences, family BBQs, and children.
But only because, deep down, I know she will always be mine.
451 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 11, 2023
32 people are currently reading
36 people want to read
About the author
Taylor K. Scott
23 books69 followersYou'd think being a writer, I would find this an easy feat, but talking about myself always leaves me a little stumped. So, I beg for your forgiveness when I attempt to give you a little bit of waffle about me. I'm a mother, wife and primary school teacher, who has found a passion for reading and writing. It's become so addictive I no longer watch TV, instead I get lost in alternative realities and frequently lie awake in the middle of the night with random ideas for what to put my characters through next. Music is often my muse but I also love to include real life experiences in my books. I want people to be able to relate to my characters and to know that they're not the only ones to go through certain difficulties, anxieties or embarrassing situations. I like to think my stories are different from one another, some being romantic comedies whilst others are full of suspense. Hopefully you agree and will enjoy getting lost inside of my head for a while. My serving suggestion is to indulge with a side dish of something sweet, something comfy and where possible, a golden retriever to curl up next to.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
August 7, 2023
We got bits and pieces of Helena’s story in The Fool, The Knight, and Willows and Waterlilies, so I am glad we finally got her full story here!
Helena has been through a lot from what we saw in previous books. But we see that her present state is just a shell of her spunky, self-assured self. She always followed the rules and abide by her father’s wished but wasn’t afraid to show her interests in gardening and photography or daring to endure and survive. She has true confidantes in her mother and cousin Meri, and as the story progresses we get to see Helena’s shifting in different phases but always keeping steady with her feelings for those who she truly cares about.
Lucius was well known but with a bad reputation given his association with the mafia and troubled family situation. But his guardian cared for him and while Lucius believed he would never be capable of love based on his past or having a significant relationship with others, often showing a cocky and callous side and being known as “The Devil”, he shows tendencies of being protective and caring.
These two! Their love is definitely full of angst as they started like a Romeo and Juliet story, with both of them feeling the connection between them but being forced apart both by internal and external forces. They have good banter and chemistry, easily getting along with each other despite being opposites in personality, and this opposition is what makes them compliment each other so well. Still their story is wraught with ups and downs within their relationship and in times where they are apart. Yet he e hope beyond hope that they will find their ways back to each other and work together to make things work no matter what they face. I felt at times unneeded a tissue with the emotional rollercoaster the author took us through with their story, as we got endearing moments, heart breaking moments, moments that made us shake, and moments where we whipped in joy. This was such a transformative story for both Lucius and Helena and with patience we get their HEA!
Moreover, we see previous characters again like Cameron, Nate and Lily who definitely play pivotal roles in this love story that starts when they were teenagers. We also see characters who are supposed to be the rock and protectors become the ones who ser off implorable chain reactions. I do think reading the prior books would help get the full understanding of this book as we do do get bits and pieces here of other characters’ stories which also helps to put into perspective things that happen in this story and who is the villianous individuals. However, if you rather jump in from here, I think it’s possible to do so but I’d definitely go back to get all the juicy details!
Overall, this has been an engaging series to read and I cannot wait to see what’s next!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Helena has been through a lot from what we saw in previous books. But we see that her present state is just a shell of her spunky, self-assured self. She always followed the rules and abide by her father’s wished but wasn’t afraid to show her interests in gardening and photography or daring to endure and survive. She has true confidantes in her mother and cousin Meri, and as the story progresses we get to see Helena’s shifting in different phases but always keeping steady with her feelings for those who she truly cares about.
Lucius was well known but with a bad reputation given his association with the mafia and troubled family situation. But his guardian cared for him and while Lucius believed he would never be capable of love based on his past or having a significant relationship with others, often showing a cocky and callous side and being known as “The Devil”, he shows tendencies of being protective and caring.
These two! Their love is definitely full of angst as they started like a Romeo and Juliet story, with both of them feeling the connection between them but being forced apart both by internal and external forces. They have good banter and chemistry, easily getting along with each other despite being opposites in personality, and this opposition is what makes them compliment each other so well. Still their story is wraught with ups and downs within their relationship and in times where they are apart. Yet he e hope beyond hope that they will find their ways back to each other and work together to make things work no matter what they face. I felt at times unneeded a tissue with the emotional rollercoaster the author took us through with their story, as we got endearing moments, heart breaking moments, moments that made us shake, and moments where we whipped in joy. This was such a transformative story for both Lucius and Helena and with patience we get their HEA!
Moreover, we see previous characters again like Cameron, Nate and Lily who definitely play pivotal roles in this love story that starts when they were teenagers. We also see characters who are supposed to be the rock and protectors become the ones who ser off implorable chain reactions. I do think reading the prior books would help get the full understanding of this book as we do do get bits and pieces here of other characters’ stories which also helps to put into perspective things that happen in this story and who is the villianous individuals. However, if you rather jump in from here, I think it’s possible to do so but I’d definitely go back to get all the juicy details!
Overall, this has been an engaging series to read and I cannot wait to see what’s next!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 16, 2023
An emotional, heartbreaking story.
This was so emotional, at times tension filled, heartbreaking and absolutely gut wrenching.
It's Helena's story, some of which we knew already from reading the other books in the Carter series, but this takes us back to the beginning and relives all the history; the first meetings between Helena and Lucuis, and between her and Evan and their histories, their interactions, and relationships, and how the events unfolded. The treachery and deceit, the love lost.
Ms. Scott writes such beautifully emotional words, we feel all Helena feels, the highs and the lows and the absolute devastation.
For me the beginning dragged a little, I'm not sure if that's because I knew what was coming and wanted to get to that part of the story faster, but I did get to the point in the book that I found it hard to put down as I needed to know how this all turned out.
I was shocked at the betrayal, at what could have been without it, but pleased for the eventual outcome.
A story that brings some joy, some of which was very hard fought, but much in the way of heartbreak.
This was so emotional, at times tension filled, heartbreaking and absolutely gut wrenching.
It's Helena's story, some of which we knew already from reading the other books in the Carter series, but this takes us back to the beginning and relives all the history; the first meetings between Helena and Lucuis, and between her and Evan and their histories, their interactions, and relationships, and how the events unfolded. The treachery and deceit, the love lost.
Ms. Scott writes such beautifully emotional words, we feel all Helena feels, the highs and the lows and the absolute devastation.
For me the beginning dragged a little, I'm not sure if that's because I knew what was coming and wanted to get to that part of the story faster, but I did get to the point in the book that I found it hard to put down as I needed to know how this all turned out.
I was shocked at the betrayal, at what could have been without it, but pleased for the eventual outcome.
A story that brings some joy, some of which was very hard fought, but much in the way of heartbreak.
July 22, 2023
I could not wait to read Helena and Lucius' story. I knew it would be emotional and heart wrenching.
Having met Lucius Hastings in the previous stories, he comes across as cold, ruthless and heartless. He is known as the devil and has but one weakness much to his chargrin,Topolina (Helena).
I love Lucius because he oozes confidence and sin. Yet, when it comes to Helena no matter how hard he fights it he can't not love her.
"The devil doesn’t get to fall in love, Helena,”
This story makes you want to scream and cry in frustration and despair because of what Helena has and is going through. There's love and hate felt throughout reading. Helena is an unbelievably strong woman.
I loved this story so much. It is very well written, full of emotion and I adored the passionate chemistry between Lucius and Helena. I'm so happy they got their HEA and Evan got what he deserved.
Please check triggers just in case as this is intense and dark in places.
Having met Lucius Hastings in the previous stories, he comes across as cold, ruthless and heartless. He is known as the devil and has but one weakness much to his chargrin,Topolina (Helena).
I love Lucius because he oozes confidence and sin. Yet, when it comes to Helena no matter how hard he fights it he can't not love her.
"The devil doesn’t get to fall in love, Helena,”
This story makes you want to scream and cry in frustration and despair because of what Helena has and is going through. There's love and hate felt throughout reading. Helena is an unbelievably strong woman.
I loved this story so much. It is very well written, full of emotion and I adored the passionate chemistry between Lucius and Helena. I'm so happy they got their HEA and Evan got what he deserved.
Please check triggers just in case as this is intense and dark in places.
July 29, 2023
This was the book in the series that I was waiting for, ever since knowing Helena’s character from the previous Carter books I knew this one would give us the most heartbreaking of stories.
Helena and Lucius’ story is one that has been in the making for years, ever since she was 17 years old. We know, from previous books, that Helena has been in a brutal relationship with her husband, physically and emotionally but in this book we get the whole narrative. One that starts from when they first meet and all that happens until their ending.
I won’t give too much away as it is a story that needs to be read!
When reading you must take note of the trigger warnings as the subject content might not be for everyone but what I do want to say is that this author brings empathy, tact and grace with her words, at the same time not shying away from these hard subjects.
I have so much admiration for her work and to me she is a must read order!
Helena and Lucius’ story is one that has been in the making for years, ever since she was 17 years old. We know, from previous books, that Helena has been in a brutal relationship with her husband, physically and emotionally but in this book we get the whole narrative. One that starts from when they first meet and all that happens until their ending.
I won’t give too much away as it is a story that needs to be read!
When reading you must take note of the trigger warnings as the subject content might not be for everyone but what I do want to say is that this author brings empathy, tact and grace with her words, at the same time not shying away from these hard subjects.
I have so much admiration for her work and to me she is a must read order!
August 28, 2023
Helena finally has her story told and it's a deep one. Whenever an author goes back into a group of characters history to flesh out a specific person's story, it adds to many emotional layers to the mix. And that's what happens here - poor Helena, lucky Helena and resolved Helena all exist here in glorious colour.
If you're familiar with the series you'll enjoy reading about many of your fave characters, but what's important with this book is it gives a beginning to so many of my outstanding questions from earlier books.
Be prepared for some gut-wrenching scenes though - especially if you know and love these characters already!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
If you're familiar with the series you'll enjoy reading about many of your fave characters, but what's important with this book is it gives a beginning to so many of my outstanding questions from earlier books.
Be prepared for some gut-wrenching scenes though - especially if you know and love these characters already!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 23, 2023
Iam a big fan of this author and can't get enough of this series. I think this one is the most emotional book. This is the story of Lucius. people call him the devil. and Helena the Carter sister Lucius you will understand why he the way he is when you read this, but I love him, he quirky. and always gets what he wants. Helena has always done what daddy tells her but at a price. and this is their story. lies secrets and someone will do all they can to get what they want at any cost. You will laugh. And you will get so mad, and you will definitely cry. it's an amazing read and the Schenes. Between them are so hot can't wait for next book in series a very talented writer
May 10, 2025
I loved this book.It's so much more than an enemies to loves troupe.I can't describe the Journey Helena has gone through.we briefly met her in Nate's story.I hated the way young Lucius behaved and treated her but the 14 year relationship was so impacted by others that it couldn't survive. I felt every disappointment that she faced every let down really feels like a personal punch in the gut.I am so let down by Cameron and Nate, and honesty couldn't forgive them.there's so many amazing moments in this plot. I honestly can't read enough of this authors work Just now. It's dark,gripping and filled with difficult decisions
July 20, 2023
Wow I’ve looked forward to Helena’s story from the start of this series but wow she broke my heart what she’s gone through and she still came out strong. Lots of trigger warnings for this book but her story needed to be told. Lucius is the most honest person he doesn’t pretend to be someone he’s not and whatever he wants he gets it what shocks him the most is Helena but he’s too good for her so he lets her go breaking both the hearts in the process I don’t want to go into the story too much other then get your tissues ready. ❤️💔
July 31, 2023
I’ve been waiting for Helena’s story since the first book and I’m glad I had to wait because the build up was perfect! Wow she was out through it and it could have quite easily broken her completely but she didn’t allow it. She was so strong even if at times it looked as if she wasn’t.
This second chance love story broke my heart and I wanted to shout at Lucius to sort himself out because he was standing in his own way of his happiness but he had his own trauma to deal with.
The build up from the previous books set the scene perfectly for their love story and it is the perfect conclusion.
This second chance love story broke my heart and I wanted to shout at Lucius to sort himself out because he was standing in his own way of his happiness but he had his own trauma to deal with.
The build up from the previous books set the scene perfectly for their love story and it is the perfect conclusion.
August 6, 2023
Oh my this book...I was on a reading slump for weeks and it snapped me out of it. It's so emotional and heartbreaking it had me bawling while reading it. This book shattered my heart to pieces and shoved it right back to my chest. This is the first book i've read from this series and I regret I haven't read the other books. I will definitely get my hands on them. This is definitely gonna be part of my favorite reads this year.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 21, 2023
So, I'll have one devil, aka, Lucius Hastings, to go please. This was an emotional rollercoaster with moments of laughter, anger, sadness and utter devastation. And don't even get me started on the steam between these two. I loved how it connected up all the breadcrumbs we were given about Helena's life in the previous books. I also loved all the cameos, especially Nate and Cam. A great read that I consumed much to quickly. Definitely recommend.
July 25, 2023
What a conclusion to this series. I've been needing Helena's story from the moment I met her in the previous books. I knew she was broken and was going through shit, but blimey didn't expect what she actually went through.
My heart ached for her. And Lucius if I'm being honest. What a perfect love story that spanned a good few years. I don't want to say you saved the best till last Taylor
But this is another 5 star read! All the emotions, love, care and hurt. I felt it all!
My heart ached for her. And Lucius if I'm being honest. What a perfect love story that spanned a good few years. I don't want to say you saved the best till last Taylor
But this is another 5 star read! All the emotions, love, care and hurt. I felt it all!
July 29, 2023
Finally after getting the tidbits about Helen and her abusive husband, the full story is out and it is full of love and heartbreak. They were kept apart for 11 years by people who thought they knew what was best for Helena. I had waited to read this and to prepare myself especially as I have read the series. The story was great and there's triggers so be prepared. Love the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 7, 2023
This is a well written book with strong characters in Lucius and Helena. They have a sizzling passion but it's not all smooth sailing. The author does a great job developing their story and painting her scenes. She takes them on an emotional journey that will break your heart. There are trigger warnings so beware.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
October 1, 2023
Bloody love Lucius Hastings! He is the epitiome of sex and swagger and all round phwoar!
A little grumpy and testy at times but where would we all be without a little drama!
So this is Helena's story and the author has done a fantastic job bringing all these books together with a common enemy. Its fantastic the way they all interlink and i even liked the cameo appearance of Marcus and Mateo right at the end!
Truly great series!
A little grumpy and testy at times but where would we all be without a little drama!
So this is Helena's story and the author has done a fantastic job bringing all these books together with a common enemy. Its fantastic the way they all interlink and i even liked the cameo appearance of Marcus and Mateo right at the end!
Truly great series!
July 23, 2023
This heart wrenching story had my emotions all over the place reading about Lucius and Helena. She has endured a lot and Lucius is the epitome of his character. His only weakness is Helena and relationship is heartbreaking.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 10, 2023
Oh, so now I'm in love with none other than Lucius Hastings! That boy could do whatever he wants to me. And Helena! Poor, poor Helena. A truly heartbreaking but beautiful story all at the same time. I would read the first two books in the series to really appreciate just how gorgeous this story is. Definitely take note of trigger warnings at the beginning.
August 12, 2023
Lucius is a force to be reckoned with and Helena is the total opposite. They meet years ago but he let her slip away thinking he was not good enough for her but after the abusive marriage she endured he can not longer resist the one woman that has always belonged to him. Wonderful emotional romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 13, 2023
Compelling read
I expected this book to be good, as I've read the other books in the series and it certainly didn't disappoint. These books are best read in order, and I'd been looking forward to Helena's story since the beginning of the series. Once I started reading, I couldn't put the book down, so I thoroughly recommend this book and the entire series!
I expected this book to be good, as I've read the other books in the series and it certainly didn't disappoint. These books are best read in order, and I'd been looking forward to Helena's story since the beginning of the series. Once I started reading, I couldn't put the book down, so I thoroughly recommend this book and the entire series!
August 2, 2023
Helena and Lucius story will rip your heart out and more. The emotion depths, well detailed scenes have you hooked! Great addition to the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 19, 2023
Review to follow
July 23, 2023
Another amazing read which I fully recommend. Please read triggers, there are a few! Well done, Taylor. x
August 11, 2023
What a book. Lucius and Helena story. It is quite the emotional story, you go through an array of them. Neither could resist the other despite the warnings. Be prepared to for this one to rock you.
August 19, 2023
I enjoyed Lucius and Helena’s book. It was an entertaining read. And am voluntarily leaving my review.
August 20, 2023
3.5 rounding up to 4 🌟.
May 25, 2025
Excellent series. Many tears.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews