What do you think?
Rate this book
Allan's Miscellany #4
Devil's Return: Allan's Miscellany 1847
“Romantic, witty, and slyly provocative, Devil’s Return will curl your toes and make you sigh. I loved it!”
~ Delilah Marvelle
~~~
Seven years ago Fran and Alex were very much in love. Yet because Alex was only a younger son with no prospects to speak of, Fran’s family pressured her into breaking the engagement and marrying a rich, titled man instead. Filled with bitterness, Alex left England for the New World.
Now he is back, more dangerous and more cynical than ever before. He has found fame and fortune as an adventurer, traveling the world from America to the Near East and writing about his travels for Allan’s Miscellany. He has come to London to drum up interest for his friend’s archeological excavations. Soon, he finds himself the darling of London society, admired by men, wooed by women.
Fate has not been so kind to Fran. After a disastrous marriage, which has left her with deep emotional and physical scars, she is widowed and now lives in genteel poverty.
By chance, Alex and Fran’s paths cross again. They have both changed so much, and past betrayals and past hurts still divide them. So surely there can be no second chance for their love…
~ Delilah Marvelle
~~~
Seven years ago Fran and Alex were very much in love. Yet because Alex was only a younger son with no prospects to speak of, Fran’s family pressured her into breaking the engagement and marrying a rich, titled man instead. Filled with bitterness, Alex left England for the New World.
Now he is back, more dangerous and more cynical than ever before. He has found fame and fortune as an adventurer, traveling the world from America to the Near East and writing about his travels for Allan’s Miscellany. He has come to London to drum up interest for his friend’s archeological excavations. Soon, he finds himself the darling of London society, admired by men, wooed by women.
Fate has not been so kind to Fran. After a disastrous marriage, which has left her with deep emotional and physical scars, she is widowed and now lives in genteel poverty.
By chance, Alex and Fran’s paths cross again. They have both changed so much, and past betrayals and past hurts still divide them. So surely there can be no second chance for their love…
- GenresHistorical
ebook
First published August 15, 2014
1 person is currently reading
58 people want to read
About the author
Sandra Schwab
24 books77 followersSandra Schwab has been delighting readers with her unusual historical romances since 2005. She particularly likes the quirky bits of history, so in her books, you’ll find Roman pet eels, Regency gentlemen with green hair, and medieval tournaments in Victorian Britain. She writes both m/m and m/f historicals - happy endings always guaranteed!
She lives in Frankfurt am Main, Germany, with a sketchbook, a ukulele (well, more than one), and an ever-expanding library.
She lives in Frankfurt am Main, Germany, with a sketchbook, a ukulele (well, more than one), and an ever-expanding library.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
April 2, 2015
Very intense second chance novella where the author paid homage to Jane Austen's Persuasion. The novella is part of short stories collection surrounded Allan's Miscellany - a fictional Victorian periodical and a very clever plot device by the author. The story has a marvelous setting, fine attention to historical details.I only wish it was longer with more developed characters and not such an abrupt ending.This is my first book by the author and I will definitely keep her in mind for future reads.
August 17, 2014
Like earlier stated, I was given this for my honest and unbiased opinion.
Oooooooooooooooooooooh silly families breaking up love matches JUST because they don't think the boy has any prospects. And then after they break up the couple, years later the man comes back richer then ever and the family drools all over him (like Fran's bitchy sister Victoria). Ugh. Victoria...what a snot. How did she manage to marry such a good guy? >__> I hope he leaves her and finds someone better and nicer.
Poor Fran. She was forced to leave her true love and forced to marry an old man who is abusive and mean. Then something bad happens to her and she is physically scarred for life. I cannot say what happens, but its big and it almost cost her her life. I didn't expect it honestly, so it was a twist when the truth came out. Poor girl. Stupid Alex for leaving the country over a hurt pride. I wished he had stayed, so at least ONE person would have cared for her. Hell, the sweet Dr. Grant was the only one who cared about her throughout her ordeal.
Honestly, I think this is my favorite out of the series so far (I still need to read #2)! I loved the 'Persuasion' mix to the story. That was my favorite book, so when a story mirrors it, even just a little, it makes me happy. Alex reminded me a little of Captain Wentworth, but not as bitter and he got over his hurt pride quicker. He also decided to not write a letter and hope his love forgives him and takes him back, he ran to her and made her understand and make her take him back. It was romantic and made me happy, because she needed a good kick in the arse to get out of her I-hate-myself-and-Alex-could-never-love-me-again-because-I'm-ugly-now. Psh. He is no Prince Charming now either, a bear smacked him across the chest and he has an ugly scar!
Anyways....
I can't wait to read more! I cannot wait for Mac to get his own story. I simply adore the man even though he is cynical and a grump; he totally reminds me of my own love, so I can't help but like him. haha.
In the end, this is the best out of the series so far. I can't wait to see what is next for the poor men of the magazine! Especially for Mr. Mac. I wish these were not short shorties, but I'll take what I can get. ^.^ Out of five stars, I stamp this one with 5.
Favorite Character(s): Alex, Fran, Dr. Grant, Beaton, and Mac
Not-so Favorite Character(s): Victoria (I wanted to punch her in the face)
Oooooooooooooooooooooh silly families breaking up love matches JUST because they don't think the boy has any prospects. And then after they break up the couple, years later the man comes back richer then ever and the family drools all over him (like Fran's bitchy sister Victoria). Ugh. Victoria...what a snot. How did she manage to marry such a good guy? >__> I hope he leaves her and finds someone better and nicer.
Poor Fran. She was forced to leave her true love and forced to marry an old man who is abusive and mean. Then something bad happens to her and she is physically scarred for life. I cannot say what happens, but its big and it almost cost her her life. I didn't expect it honestly, so it was a twist when the truth came out. Poor girl. Stupid Alex for leaving the country over a hurt pride. I wished he had stayed, so at least ONE person would have cared for her. Hell, the sweet Dr. Grant was the only one who cared about her throughout her ordeal.
Honestly, I think this is my favorite out of the series so far (I still need to read #2)! I loved the 'Persuasion' mix to the story. That was my favorite book, so when a story mirrors it, even just a little, it makes me happy. Alex reminded me a little of Captain Wentworth, but not as bitter and he got over his hurt pride quicker. He also decided to not write a letter and hope his love forgives him and takes him back, he ran to her and made her understand and make her take him back. It was romantic and made me happy, because she needed a good kick in the arse to get out of her I-hate-myself-and-Alex-could-never-love-me-again-because-I'm-ugly-now. Psh. He is no Prince Charming now either, a bear smacked him across the chest and he has an ugly scar!
Anyways....
I can't wait to read more! I cannot wait for Mac to get his own story. I simply adore the man even though he is cynical and a grump; he totally reminds me of my own love, so I can't help but like him. haha.
In the end, this is the best out of the series so far. I can't wait to see what is next for the poor men of the magazine! Especially for Mr. Mac. I wish these were not short shorties, but I'll take what I can get. ^.^ Out of five stars, I stamp this one with 5.
Favorite Character(s): Alex, Fran, Dr. Grant, Beaton, and Mac
Not-so Favorite Character(s): Victoria (I wanted to punch her in the face)
October 5, 2014
Sparkling, Original and Emotionally Intense!
Oh My! What an emotionally gripping Victorian Romance! The novella was a pure delight to read and I’m now eager to become acquainted with Sandra Schwab’s backlist and future works.
Devil’s Return is book #4 in the Allan’s Miscellany series and the tale gives the hero Alex and the heroine Fran a second chance at love – before I go any further a box of tissues is an absolute must! My heart went out to them both – Fran, compelled by her family to walk away from Alex and marry an older man and Alex, a younger son with little prospects, who felt so rejected that he went abroad. Yet after seven years their fortunes have changed. Alex, the ‘devil’ of the title is a most eligible (not to mention sexy) gentleman, who has London at his feet after having his adventures and accounts of archaeological discoveries shared in the Allan’s Miscellany. After unexpectedly meeting Fran in London he is shocked at how she has changed and although initially determined to resist the pull she still exerts on him, fate has other ideas…..
Fran by contrast is now an impoverished widow, nursing many scars, physical and emotional, which we learn about as the plot evolves. Although I suspected some of what had occurred I admit I cried buckets when Alex found out the truth and more so when he confronted Fran with his knowledge. Bravo to the author for such an original and engaging plot, which I will not divulge any further in this review as it would spoil the read. Suffice to say that Fran has great fortitude and is a heroine who thoroughly deserves a HEA.
The novella is a far cry from doom and gloom however. It veritably fizzes with sparkling wit and repartee amongst the Victorian intelligentsia. Indeed, it makes for a totally charming, highly original and entertaining read. It is full of fascinating characters, whose own stories and romances I am eager to read about. I strongly recommend it to all readers who love romance.
I was given a copy of this novella for the purpose of a fair and honest review.
Oh My! What an emotionally gripping Victorian Romance! The novella was a pure delight to read and I’m now eager to become acquainted with Sandra Schwab’s backlist and future works.
Devil’s Return is book #4 in the Allan’s Miscellany series and the tale gives the hero Alex and the heroine Fran a second chance at love – before I go any further a box of tissues is an absolute must! My heart went out to them both – Fran, compelled by her family to walk away from Alex and marry an older man and Alex, a younger son with little prospects, who felt so rejected that he went abroad. Yet after seven years their fortunes have changed. Alex, the ‘devil’ of the title is a most eligible (not to mention sexy) gentleman, who has London at his feet after having his adventures and accounts of archaeological discoveries shared in the Allan’s Miscellany. After unexpectedly meeting Fran in London he is shocked at how she has changed and although initially determined to resist the pull she still exerts on him, fate has other ideas…..
Fran by contrast is now an impoverished widow, nursing many scars, physical and emotional, which we learn about as the plot evolves. Although I suspected some of what had occurred I admit I cried buckets when Alex found out the truth and more so when he confronted Fran with his knowledge. Bravo to the author for such an original and engaging plot, which I will not divulge any further in this review as it would spoil the read. Suffice to say that Fran has great fortitude and is a heroine who thoroughly deserves a HEA.
The novella is a far cry from doom and gloom however. It veritably fizzes with sparkling wit and repartee amongst the Victorian intelligentsia. Indeed, it makes for a totally charming, highly original and entertaining read. It is full of fascinating characters, whose own stories and romances I am eager to read about. I strongly recommend it to all readers who love romance.
I was given a copy of this novella for the purpose of a fair and honest review.
September 24, 2014
Originally given 3.5 hearts at Rookie Romance.
This is a short but very sweet story that fits in quite the emotional second chance romance.
My heart hurt for Fran and all that she has had to go through on her own. Sure, she should have stood up for her own wants when she was younger but she was a dutiful daughter and paid the price for it in the end. She's a very stoic and self-contained woman, who just wants the quiet freedom that widowhood has granted her. But then Alex reappears in her life, changing everything.
Alex was a great hero, and I loved how kuch he still cares for Fran, even though she technically rejected him all those years ago. After all, it made him the man he is now- a wealthy, independent man known as an adventurer.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, especially the way it all links in to Allan's Miscellany. It's got a more unusual story line which made it all the more interesting, as well. I'd definitely recommend this if you're looking for something shorter that still delivers a satisfying romantic read.
*I received a review copy for my honest opinion. Thank you!
This is a short but very sweet story that fits in quite the emotional second chance romance.
My heart hurt for Fran and all that she has had to go through on her own. Sure, she should have stood up for her own wants when she was younger but she was a dutiful daughter and paid the price for it in the end. She's a very stoic and self-contained woman, who just wants the quiet freedom that widowhood has granted her. But then Alex reappears in her life, changing everything.
Alex was a great hero, and I loved how kuch he still cares for Fran, even though she technically rejected him all those years ago. After all, it made him the man he is now- a wealthy, independent man known as an adventurer.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, especially the way it all links in to Allan's Miscellany. It's got a more unusual story line which made it all the more interesting, as well. I'd definitely recommend this if you're looking for something shorter that still delivers a satisfying romantic read.
*I received a review copy for my honest opinion. Thank you!
September 12, 2014
This was one of those "make your heart ache and bring tears to your eyes" love stories.
The book had a lot of dialogue and interaction among many of the minor characters, which gave me a more complete picture of what Alex and Fran were going through and surrounded by at the time. These minor characters created a more upbeat, pleasant, contrast to Fran's understandably downtrodden demeanor.
I REALLY enjoyed reading the story as it pertained to Fran and Alex. The back story and relationship between the two made for a VERY touching and compelling type of love. The ending though...the ending evoked so much FEELING. I absolutely loved the ending!!!
***I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
The book had a lot of dialogue and interaction among many of the minor characters, which gave me a more complete picture of what Alex and Fran were going through and surrounded by at the time. These minor characters created a more upbeat, pleasant, contrast to Fran's understandably downtrodden demeanor.
I REALLY enjoyed reading the story as it pertained to Fran and Alex. The back story and relationship between the two made for a VERY touching and compelling type of love. The ending though...the ending evoked so much FEELING. I absolutely loved the ending!!!
***I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
December 4, 2022
I don't know if I was just in a weepy mood today, but I cried about half this book. It's a very short book, let me be clear on that, and the ending ends abruptly---like I thought I accidentally skipped a chapter at the end. After all that though, it was a really sweet book and my heart was breaking for these characters.
May 18, 2017
Wonderful
Get your tissues handy because you will definitely need them. Frannie and Alex's story is about second chances at love. Frannie's story in particular touched my heart, being a survivor and having lost a sister. Absolutely wonderfully heartstrings pulling story.
Get your tissues handy because you will definitely need them. Frannie and Alex's story is about second chances at love. Frannie's story in particular touched my heart, being a survivor and having lost a sister. Absolutely wonderfully heartstrings pulling story.
September 18, 2014
A sweet second-chance romance, Devil's Return was a lovely read and I really enjoyed it.
Fran was a surprisingly strong character. She was easily influenced by her family in her youth but, over the years, she learned that she had to think of herself and her happiness. And, after the disaster of her marriage, she bore her unfortunate circumstances with dignity. I thought she was great.
Alex was so sweet. He had loved Fran and was heartbroken when she left him. But, rather than become bitter, he turned his attention to making something of himself and became a better man for it. I really liked how he still loved Fran and, after hearing of her misfortunes, his first thought was of comforting her. I thought he was just adorable.
The romance was sweet. Even after years of separation, Fran and Alex still loved each other and, after overcoming the gap that had come up between them, they were determined to be together. My only issue was that I wish Fran had actually expressed her regret to Alex about leaving him. When he found out about what she had went through while he was gone, he was the one who apologized to her about not being there for her and that just struck me as odd, considering she was the one who had rejected him and told him to leave. So, why was he thinking that he had to apologize? If I had just gotten a full spoken expression of regret from Fran when she sincerely apologized, I would have been happier but, as it was, it didn't quite strike me right. Overall, though, I thought they were a sweet couple.
The plot moved swiftly and I was drawn in right from the start. I enjoyed the story and I thought the ending was very sweet.
Devil's Return was a lovely historical romance that I really liked. It was sweet, enjoyable, and just great overall. Romance lovers, this is a book worth checking out.
*I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review
Fran was a surprisingly strong character. She was easily influenced by her family in her youth but, over the years, she learned that she had to think of herself and her happiness. And, after the disaster of her marriage, she bore her unfortunate circumstances with dignity. I thought she was great.
Alex was so sweet. He had loved Fran and was heartbroken when she left him. But, rather than become bitter, he turned his attention to making something of himself and became a better man for it. I really liked how he still loved Fran and, after hearing of her misfortunes, his first thought was of comforting her. I thought he was just adorable.
The romance was sweet. Even after years of separation, Fran and Alex still loved each other and, after overcoming the gap that had come up between them, they were determined to be together. My only issue was that I wish Fran had actually expressed her regret to Alex about leaving him. When he found out about what she had went through while he was gone, he was the one who apologized to her about not being there for her and that just struck me as odd, considering she was the one who had rejected him and told him to leave. So, why was he thinking that he had to apologize? If I had just gotten a full spoken expression of regret from Fran when she sincerely apologized, I would have been happier but, as it was, it didn't quite strike me right. Overall, though, I thought they were a sweet couple.
The plot moved swiftly and I was drawn in right from the start. I enjoyed the story and I thought the ending was very sweet.
Devil's Return was a lovely historical romance that I really liked. It was sweet, enjoyable, and just great overall. Romance lovers, this is a book worth checking out.
*I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review
September 7, 2014
*Reviewer for Paranormal Romance and Authors that Rock*
4 fangs
Schwab's novellas of Allan's Miscellany appear to be stand alone reads if you want, in my opinion. In this installment, you are introduced to widow Crawford and her young love Alex that has returned to London. Lady Crawford is still in mourning and is staying with her sister while she visits the doctor. You pick up right away that there is something amiss with her health and her sister isn't exactly caring of her situation. Even though this is a breezy read, it does have a good message. Men and women have always had a hard time communicating with one another, but if they would sometimes the outcome would be far different than what they feared.
4 fangs
Schwab's novellas of Allan's Miscellany appear to be stand alone reads if you want, in my opinion. In this installment, you are introduced to widow Crawford and her young love Alex that has returned to London. Lady Crawford is still in mourning and is staying with her sister while she visits the doctor. You pick up right away that there is something amiss with her health and her sister isn't exactly caring of her situation. Even though this is a breezy read, it does have a good message. Men and women have always had a hard time communicating with one another, but if they would sometimes the outcome would be far different than what they feared.
September 30, 2014
Historical Romances are my guilty pleasure. And when your looking for that something different to read I always find my way to a historical book. I was looking forward to reading this book from the blurb. And it surprised me in that it was better than I was expecting.
The Story is about second chances. Fran one of the main characters is surprisingly strong even though she came off like she didn't know her own mind.
If your after the chance to lose your self for a while and read a great book then this is the one.
I give this 4/5
The Story is about second chances. Fran one of the main characters is surprisingly strong even though she came off like she didn't know her own mind.
If your after the chance to lose your self for a while and read a great book then this is the one.
I give this 4/5
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews