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The Daring Times of Fern Adair
Scarred long ago in a deadly house fire, a sheltered young woman becomes entangled with a dangerous mobster in the electrifying time of 1925 Chicago.
Fern Adair has spent most of her life tucked away in her family’s Chicago home. There, she’s protected from startled stares and uncomfortable questions about the scarred half of her face. But when her parents begin to host elaborate weekly dinners to socialize Fern—and to find her a husband—the refuge of her sheltered life fractures.
Despite her wealth, and her father’s power as a district court judge, no potential suitor looks her way twice. Until one evening, a mysterious stranger takes a seat at the Adair's dinner table.
Calvin Rosetti, older brother and enforcer to one of the city's most dangerous criminal kingpins, doesn't have honorable intentions when it comes to the judge’s scarred daughter. He wants revenge against Fern’s brother, who recently wronged the Rosetti family in an unforgivable way, and Cal plans to use Fern to even the score.
Drawn out of her reclusive life and into Cal's illicit underworld, Fern discovers a side of herself she's never known, proving she is much more than just a pawn to be played. Slowly, she and Cal realize what it is to love someone they shouldn't— and it comes with violent consequences. With Cal's scheme falling apart, and a crucial choice set before them, Fern will come to know what she's capable of, scars and all.
Fern Adair has spent most of her life tucked away in her family’s Chicago home. There, she’s protected from startled stares and uncomfortable questions about the scarred half of her face. But when her parents begin to host elaborate weekly dinners to socialize Fern—and to find her a husband—the refuge of her sheltered life fractures.
Despite her wealth, and her father’s power as a district court judge, no potential suitor looks her way twice. Until one evening, a mysterious stranger takes a seat at the Adair's dinner table.
Calvin Rosetti, older brother and enforcer to one of the city's most dangerous criminal kingpins, doesn't have honorable intentions when it comes to the judge’s scarred daughter. He wants revenge against Fern’s brother, who recently wronged the Rosetti family in an unforgivable way, and Cal plans to use Fern to even the score.
Drawn out of her reclusive life and into Cal's illicit underworld, Fern discovers a side of herself she's never known, proving she is much more than just a pawn to be played. Slowly, she and Cal realize what it is to love someone they shouldn't— and it comes with violent consequences. With Cal's scheme falling apart, and a crucial choice set before them, Fern will come to know what she's capable of, scars and all.
370 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 15, 2025
64 people are currently reading
194 people want to read
About the author
Cara Devlin
38 books435 followersCara is an author, reader, and history lover. She reads and writes across genres, but her heart is reserved for romantic historical fiction and mystery. Her Bow Street Duchess books are fast-paced historical mysteries featuring a slow-burn romance taking place in Regency London. The series begins with Murder at the Seven Dials. Cara lives in rural New England with her family, where she is at work on her next series, the Spencer & Reid Mysteries.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
November 19, 2025
Cara Devlin is one of my favorite authors and is a must read for me. I enjoy the research and authentic feel of her settings. The Roaring 20's is not an era that I enjoy reading about in regard to the big cities as it was prohibition, mobsters and maybe the fun parts were the flappers.
The main characters never really grabbed me. I found Fern to be incredibly sheltered and would have liked to have seen her grow in the real world and have more of those exploits revealed. Cal was just too nice of a mobster. His brother the mob boss seemed to have very little family loyalty as far as Cal was concerned and just bordered on bat .... crazy. Fern's family was another story that just seemed to make her life bleak.
I guess my main problem was I never really was invested in anyone. The storyline was not strong enough to get me past this even with enjoyable writing about a gritty look at life in Chicago and its problems during prohibition.
The main characters never really grabbed me. I found Fern to be incredibly sheltered and would have liked to have seen her grow in the real world and have more of those exploits revealed. Cal was just too nice of a mobster. His brother the mob boss seemed to have very little family loyalty as far as Cal was concerned and just bordered on bat .... crazy. Fern's family was another story that just seemed to make her life bleak.
I guess my main problem was I never really was invested in anyone. The storyline was not strong enough to get me past this even with enjoyable writing about a gritty look at life in Chicago and its problems during prohibition.
November 24, 2025
WOW!
This was an excellent! A historical fiction, set in gilded age Chicago during prohibition. We have a sheltered heroine, isolated because of scars she got as a child, and a criminal hero, running a bootlegger business and involved in some hair raising activities. Somehow they made it work and overcome a lot to be together. Very well researched with some great, evil villains you love to hate.
If you are looking for something original and slightly dark, this is a good choice.
********
Woohoo! Got the ARC!
This was an excellent! A historical fiction, set in gilded age Chicago during prohibition. We have a sheltered heroine, isolated because of scars she got as a child, and a criminal hero, running a bootlegger business and involved in some hair raising activities. Somehow they made it work and overcome a lot to be together. Very well researched with some great, evil villains you love to hate.
If you are looking for something original and slightly dark, this is a good choice.
********
Woohoo! Got the ARC!
November 24, 2025
It’s been a while since I’ve added a book to my all-time-favorites shelf. It’s not that I haven’t loved books, I have. I’ve five-starred plenty and reread a few. But this one is landing on that shelf with a bang.
Fern is a recluse. Ever since a fire scarred her as a baby, she’s been hiding away in her luxurious home, with little contact with the outside world. Until a mysterious stranger shows up at her family’s dinner table.
Cal is not a nice guy. He’s anything but. He’s also not your usual book boyfriend. They couldn’t be more different, and their first encounter is anything but friendly. But then their tentative truce and budding trust evolve into a very dangerous attraction.
I cannot express how much this book touched my heart. It’s dark and heavy at times, but everything works perfectly. Fern and Cal’s forbidden love was absolutely everything.
This book isn’t just a romance; it’s also a mystery and an adventure. It’s about Fern’s journey of self-discovery and her fight for independence. Both MCs’ character arcs were so masterfully done that the ending made me cry actual fat, ugly TEARS because of how perfect it was. And crying over books is not something I often do.
The engaging writing and the wonderfully immersive historical setting come together to make an absolutely epic story.
If you love the Gilded Age, forbidden love, or, actually, just great books, I highly recommend giving this one a go.
Out November 15. I can’t wait for everyone to read it!
Thanks to the author for the arc, all opinions are my own.
Fern is a recluse. Ever since a fire scarred her as a baby, she’s been hiding away in her luxurious home, with little contact with the outside world. Until a mysterious stranger shows up at her family’s dinner table.
Cal is not a nice guy. He’s anything but. He’s also not your usual book boyfriend. They couldn’t be more different, and their first encounter is anything but friendly. But then their tentative truce and budding trust evolve into a very dangerous attraction.
I cannot express how much this book touched my heart. It’s dark and heavy at times, but everything works perfectly. Fern and Cal’s forbidden love was absolutely everything.
This book isn’t just a romance; it’s also a mystery and an adventure. It’s about Fern’s journey of self-discovery and her fight for independence. Both MCs’ character arcs were so masterfully done that the ending made me cry actual fat, ugly TEARS because of how perfect it was. And crying over books is not something I often do.
The engaging writing and the wonderfully immersive historical setting come together to make an absolutely epic story.
If you love the Gilded Age, forbidden love, or, actually, just great books, I highly recommend giving this one a go.
Out November 15. I can’t wait for everyone to read it!
Thanks to the author for the arc, all opinions are my own.
December 11, 2025
3.5 ⭐
Scarred by a house fire when she was a child, Fern Adair has hidden away in her room to avoid the stares and whisperings of strangers. Now a young woman, her parents start to have dinners with eligible young bachelors to socialize Fern, and to find her a husband. These dinners irritate Fern because of not only the intentions behind them, but they also force her out of her room and from the sheltered life she and her parents formed for her.
But one night, an uninvited guest shows up, causing shoulders to tense and mouths to remain mute, which strikes Fern’s curiosity. Little does she know that the man sitting at her dinner table is Calvin Rosetti, the older brother of one of the most dangerous and deadly kingpins in Chicago, who wants revenge for what Fern’s brother did to his family and will use Fern herself to hurt him. Fern is forced out of her room and into the dark world of Cal Rosetti, where she must learn to either come out of her shell and fight back or be a pawn in the dangerous game the criminals have in store for her and her family.
Never have I ever felt more conflicted about a book than I was with this one. 😅 I had the hardest time trying to figure out how I wanted to rate this book because even though I loved the setting, the writing, and the plot at times, I just couldn’t bring myself to love it. And I think it’s because of my constant dislike for the characters.
Listen, I know this is a story and that for stuff to happen, Fern has to actually get out of her room to get the plot to progress, but my God, I was face-palming the entire time because girl has no survival skills or instincts that help her in any way, shape, or form. I mean, I gotta agree with Cal here–she’s dangerous because everywhere she goes, trouble follows. Like, girl, I’m sorry, but maybe it’s best you stay in your room for a little while longer before you have all of Chicago shot up and in flames. 😭 I’m kidding, obviously, but I was laughing not because of the banter between Fern and Cal, but because of Fern’s naivety and gullibility. I understand that is what tends to happen when you lock yourself in your room for basically your whole life, but she reads newspapers, books, and her dad is a freaking judge. Surely, she picked up on the fact that, oh, I don’t know, it’s not the brightest idea to follow a strange, dangerous-looking man in the dark without any weapon or plan. At this point, it’s not about instinct–it’s about common freaking sense. I was so shocked that I was shaking my head the entire time. 😂
*Heavy sigh* Well, as you can tell, Fern kind of irritated me, but she wasn’t a terrible character. She was a good person, and I genuinely wished her the best because her family sucks, and I felt so, so sad that she was insecure about her scars. 😭💔 People suck, Fern, but remember that not everyone is cold-hearted. The earlier you learn that, the easier life will be to live and endure. 😅
And then there was Cal and their whole forbidden romance. It was hard to warm up to Cal at first, but near the end of the book, I thought he was sweet and a good guy who had potential, and when we learned more about him and his insane brother’s life, everything made sense about why they are the way they are. I honestly kind of felt bad for Cal. He has to keep an eye on his brother and then has to deal with Fern, who shows up thinking she’s helping when, in fact, she’s not. 😂 But, thankfully, Fern and Cal grew on me, and I wished they had a happy ending because it’s not exactly the easiest thing to leave a life of crime, especially if you are part of a gang or mob. But, I digress.
Overall, I actually did enjoy this book, despite the few things I had issues with, which are completely my problem because I have issues and I am easy to amuse, but hard to please. 😆 I recommend it if you are into the 1920s gangster-danger in Chicago with flappers, speakeasies, and adventure. 💚
Thank you to BooksGoSocial and NetGalley for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review! All opinions and statements are my own.
❗Content Warnings❗
Feigning an act of sexual assault, violence, death, murder, blood, and mentions kidnapping.
Swearing: Yes
Spice: Yes, but not too descriptive or explicit. (🌶🌶.5/5)
Scarred by a house fire when she was a child, Fern Adair has hidden away in her room to avoid the stares and whisperings of strangers. Now a young woman, her parents start to have dinners with eligible young bachelors to socialize Fern, and to find her a husband. These dinners irritate Fern because of not only the intentions behind them, but they also force her out of her room and from the sheltered life she and her parents formed for her.
But one night, an uninvited guest shows up, causing shoulders to tense and mouths to remain mute, which strikes Fern’s curiosity. Little does she know that the man sitting at her dinner table is Calvin Rosetti, the older brother of one of the most dangerous and deadly kingpins in Chicago, who wants revenge for what Fern’s brother did to his family and will use Fern herself to hurt him. Fern is forced out of her room and into the dark world of Cal Rosetti, where she must learn to either come out of her shell and fight back or be a pawn in the dangerous game the criminals have in store for her and her family.
Never have I ever felt more conflicted about a book than I was with this one. 😅 I had the hardest time trying to figure out how I wanted to rate this book because even though I loved the setting, the writing, and the plot at times, I just couldn’t bring myself to love it. And I think it’s because of my constant dislike for the characters.
Listen, I know this is a story and that for stuff to happen, Fern has to actually get out of her room to get the plot to progress, but my God, I was face-palming the entire time because girl has no survival skills or instincts that help her in any way, shape, or form. I mean, I gotta agree with Cal here–she’s dangerous because everywhere she goes, trouble follows. Like, girl, I’m sorry, but maybe it’s best you stay in your room for a little while longer before you have all of Chicago shot up and in flames. 😭 I’m kidding, obviously, but I was laughing not because of the banter between Fern and Cal, but because of Fern’s naivety and gullibility. I understand that is what tends to happen when you lock yourself in your room for basically your whole life, but she reads newspapers, books, and her dad is a freaking judge. Surely, she picked up on the fact that, oh, I don’t know, it’s not the brightest idea to follow a strange, dangerous-looking man in the dark without any weapon or plan. At this point, it’s not about instinct–it’s about common freaking sense. I was so shocked that I was shaking my head the entire time. 😂
*Heavy sigh* Well, as you can tell, Fern kind of irritated me, but she wasn’t a terrible character. She was a good person, and I genuinely wished her the best because her family sucks, and I felt so, so sad that she was insecure about her scars. 😭💔 People suck, Fern, but remember that not everyone is cold-hearted. The earlier you learn that, the easier life will be to live and endure. 😅
And then there was Cal and their whole forbidden romance. It was hard to warm up to Cal at first, but near the end of the book, I thought he was sweet and a good guy who had potential, and when we learned more about him and his insane brother’s life, everything made sense about why they are the way they are. I honestly kind of felt bad for Cal. He has to keep an eye on his brother and then has to deal with Fern, who shows up thinking she’s helping when, in fact, she’s not. 😂 But, thankfully, Fern and Cal grew on me, and I wished they had a happy ending because it’s not exactly the easiest thing to leave a life of crime, especially if you are part of a gang or mob. But, I digress.
Overall, I actually did enjoy this book, despite the few things I had issues with, which are completely my problem because I have issues and I am easy to amuse, but hard to please. 😆 I recommend it if you are into the 1920s gangster-danger in Chicago with flappers, speakeasies, and adventure. 💚
Thank you to BooksGoSocial and NetGalley for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review! All opinions and statements are my own.
❗Content Warnings❗
Feigning an act of sexual assault, violence, death, murder, blood, and mentions kidnapping.
Swearing: Yes
Spice: Yes, but not too descriptive or explicit. (🌶🌶.5/5)
November 22, 2025
4.5 Stars
One Liner: A slow start, but a worthy read
1925 Chicago
Fern Adair spent most of her life locked away in her home because of the scarred half of her face. Her parents begin to host weekly dinners, hoping to find her a suitable husband. Her father's position as the district court judge and her wealth don’t help, as suitors are not interested, until Calvin Rosetti.
Calvin is the older brother and the enforcer of the city’s most dangerous criminal kingpins. He only wants revenge on Fern’s brother by marrying her. However, Fern’s entry into his domain changes her and everything else. Will Fern see her own strength and what she can do?
The story comes in Fern’s third-person POV.
My Thoughts:
I went into the book with great expectations, as I enjoy the author’s writing style and saw a couple of friends rate it high. The slow beginning (first 15% or so) did make me wonder if the book wouldn’t work, but then it gained steady momentum and kept going.
We get only the FMC’s POV in this one. I initially wondered why. It was possibly done to make it less dark than it would have been if we got both POVs. This is dark, but not a lot (though more explicit than what you would see in the author’s series books).
The main characters are easy to like, though the MMC has his share of flaws. He is open about those and doesn’t pretend otherwise. He makes a good MMC.
The FMC’s growth is very well done, alternating between rebellious recklessness, self-doubt, vulnerability, wanting to believe the best of her people, and trying to be who she wants to be.
Though this is a romance, the main characters are always surrounded by danger. This makes the plot intriguing and keeps the reader hooked, wanting to know what happens next.
The setting is also done well, though this time we are in Chicago during the Prohibition era. We see the hypocrisy of the privileged, the dangers of gang wars, etc., without getting a lecture on any of those.
Don’t skip the author’s note at the end. Usually, books that have been a WIP for years tend to be a miss for me. However, I’m happy to say that this one broke that pattern.
To summarize, The Daring Times of Fern Adair is a compelling read with great main characters and a setting that enhances the plot. Stick with the initial slow pace, and you will enjoy the book.
My thanks to the author for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
One Liner: A slow start, but a worthy read
1925 Chicago
Fern Adair spent most of her life locked away in her home because of the scarred half of her face. Her parents begin to host weekly dinners, hoping to find her a suitable husband. Her father's position as the district court judge and her wealth don’t help, as suitors are not interested, until Calvin Rosetti.
Calvin is the older brother and the enforcer of the city’s most dangerous criminal kingpins. He only wants revenge on Fern’s brother by marrying her. However, Fern’s entry into his domain changes her and everything else. Will Fern see her own strength and what she can do?
The story comes in Fern’s third-person POV.
My Thoughts:
I went into the book with great expectations, as I enjoy the author’s writing style and saw a couple of friends rate it high. The slow beginning (first 15% or so) did make me wonder if the book wouldn’t work, but then it gained steady momentum and kept going.
We get only the FMC’s POV in this one. I initially wondered why. It was possibly done to make it less dark than it would have been if we got both POVs. This is dark, but not a lot (though more explicit than what you would see in the author’s series books).
The main characters are easy to like, though the MMC has his share of flaws. He is open about those and doesn’t pretend otherwise. He makes a good MMC.
The FMC’s growth is very well done, alternating between rebellious recklessness, self-doubt, vulnerability, wanting to believe the best of her people, and trying to be who she wants to be.
Though this is a romance, the main characters are always surrounded by danger. This makes the plot intriguing and keeps the reader hooked, wanting to know what happens next.
The setting is also done well, though this time we are in Chicago during the Prohibition era. We see the hypocrisy of the privileged, the dangers of gang wars, etc., without getting a lecture on any of those.
Don’t skip the author’s note at the end. Usually, books that have been a WIP for years tend to be a miss for me. However, I’m happy to say that this one broke that pattern.
To summarize, The Daring Times of Fern Adair is a compelling read with great main characters and a setting that enhances the plot. Stick with the initial slow pace, and you will enjoy the book.
My thanks to the author for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
November 28, 2025
"In my world, confidence is like air. You either breathe it, or you end up in the ground."
This is a very good book, but unfortunately, it's not quite the kind of romance I prefer. Or rather, it's too less of a romance for my liking. It's more of a coming-of-age story about a sheltered girl in her mid-twenties, who gets in touch with the mobster scene in 1920s Chicago. It's interesting. Exciting. Action-packed. Gripping. It has an likeable FMC, an intriguing MMC and good, interesting side characters. But their love? Their relationship? Their emotions? I just didn’t feel it.
3.5
(Read in November 2025)
This is a very good book, but unfortunately, it's not quite the kind of romance I prefer. Or rather, it's too less of a romance for my liking. It's more of a coming-of-age story about a sheltered girl in her mid-twenties, who gets in touch with the mobster scene in 1920s Chicago. It's interesting. Exciting. Action-packed. Gripping. It has an likeable FMC, an intriguing MMC and good, interesting side characters. But their love? Their relationship? Their emotions? I just didn’t feel it.
3.5
(Read in November 2025)
November 15, 2025
If Cara Devlin isn’t on your “must read” list yet, she’ll be on it if you pick up The Daring Times of Fern Adair. What a beautiful story!
Fern Adair was burned in a house fire as a child and has lived a somewhat secluded life in her wealthy family’s Chicago home. She attends weekly dinners during which prospective suitors can see her - and they are paid for their attendance. She realizes her brother and father, a judge, might have organized crime connections when one of the dinner guests winds up being a mobster.
Cal, said mobster, is a fixer for his brother, a crime boss. He uses Fern to blackmail her father, but in a very strange turn of events, develops a soft spot for her. You know where this is going…
What’s remarkable is that Devlin manages to make Cal, a man who has killed many people, the sympathetic character while Fern’s society family members seem more cruel and villainous.
Fern’s character development is staggering - she goes from hiding in her turret room to an independent woman, though a time jump is employed to make this believable.
This was a beautiful story that I know I’ll read again and again!
Fern Adair was burned in a house fire as a child and has lived a somewhat secluded life in her wealthy family’s Chicago home. She attends weekly dinners during which prospective suitors can see her - and they are paid for their attendance. She realizes her brother and father, a judge, might have organized crime connections when one of the dinner guests winds up being a mobster.
Cal, said mobster, is a fixer for his brother, a crime boss. He uses Fern to blackmail her father, but in a very strange turn of events, develops a soft spot for her. You know where this is going…
What’s remarkable is that Devlin manages to make Cal, a man who has killed many people, the sympathetic character while Fern’s society family members seem more cruel and villainous.
Fern’s character development is staggering - she goes from hiding in her turret room to an independent woman, though a time jump is employed to make this believable.
This was a beautiful story that I know I’ll read again and again!
November 8, 2025
This book was everything I hope for when reading a historical fiction novel. It put me firmly in the time period. Which in this case was prohibition era Chicago. It offered excitement and action in the form of glittering(and sometimes grimy) speakeasies and unapologetic gangsters. It offered me a cast of characters to both love and hate. A family that was selfish and entitled and two brothers who were polar opposites. And most importantly it gave me a couple to root for. A couple that were both flawed, one physically and the other emotionally but who completely drew me into their story. Literally.
I read this book in less than 24hrs. I think Devlin knocked it out of the park with this one. There were enough plot twists to keep me engaged and enough romance to keep me hopeful. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I read this book in less than 24hrs. I think Devlin knocked it out of the park with this one. There were enough plot twists to keep me engaged and enough romance to keep me hopeful. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 17, 2025
Cara Devlin is one of my favorite authors, and I have introduced her books to many of my bookclubs. In the author's note, she tells us that this book actually came from a dream, and it took her 10 years to write before she actually finished it. If you like books set in the 1920s, this book has it all. Gangster, gin joints, bootleggers, corrupt cops and judges, and more.
Fern Adair, the daughter of one of those judges, was scarred by a fire as a child, protected by her Nanny, who died in the fire. She has basically hidden out in her home all of her life, embarrassed by her scarred face.
Her parents have been bribing men to come to dinner to meet her, something she found excruciating. Until one fateful night when George Black appears at dinnertime and her father feels he must invite him to dinner.
When Fern decides to follow him after he leaves, her life is irrevocably changed.
A mystery, a romance, and a gangster story all rolled into one, with a terrific ending.
Thanks to the author for the EARC. I highly recommend this book and plan to pick this for several of my bookclubs . A fast paced read that had me crying in several places, but some happy crying too. I hope you love Fern and George (or Cal) as much as I did.
Fern Adair, the daughter of one of those judges, was scarred by a fire as a child, protected by her Nanny, who died in the fire. She has basically hidden out in her home all of her life, embarrassed by her scarred face.
Her parents have been bribing men to come to dinner to meet her, something she found excruciating. Until one fateful night when George Black appears at dinnertime and her father feels he must invite him to dinner.
When Fern decides to follow him after he leaves, her life is irrevocably changed.
A mystery, a romance, and a gangster story all rolled into one, with a terrific ending.
Thanks to the author for the EARC. I highly recommend this book and plan to pick this for several of my bookclubs . A fast paced read that had me crying in several places, but some happy crying too. I hope you love Fern and George (or Cal) as much as I did.
November 20, 2025
I absolutely loved this. Set in the roaring twenties, an unlikely relationship develops between Fern, the sheltered daughter of a district court judge, and Cal, a notorious crime boss.
It is impossible not to root for Fern. She has the worst parents in the entire world and they have shamed her into believing her scars are something to be ashamed of even though she survived a literal house fire as a child. Her brother is also the worst and none of her family deserves to breathe the same air as her.
Cal is deep in the criminal underworld with his brother and not someone you ever want to cross. I really enjoyed watching these two characters pull strength from one another as their relationship grows. I thought the character development was wonderful and I loved how much I hated some of them. Devlin really brought the Prohibition era to life with the speakeasies, bootleggers, and organized crime and I look forward to reading more from her.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It is impossible not to root for Fern. She has the worst parents in the entire world and they have shamed her into believing her scars are something to be ashamed of even though she survived a literal house fire as a child. Her brother is also the worst and none of her family deserves to breathe the same air as her.
Cal is deep in the criminal underworld with his brother and not someone you ever want to cross. I really enjoyed watching these two characters pull strength from one another as their relationship grows. I thought the character development was wonderful and I loved how much I hated some of them. Devlin really brought the Prohibition era to life with the speakeasies, bootleggers, and organized crime and I look forward to reading more from her.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 18, 2025
Fantastic book about a time period we don’t see much of in popular fiction. Prohibition in 1920’s Chicago was big business. Fern Adair, scarred by a house fire when she was a baby, lives a very small life in her parents’ mansion. Her introduction to speakeasies and the criminal underworld comes in the person of George Black, who sees behind her scars. A wonderful, exciting love story and a fascinating history lesson. I received this book at no charge from the author, but my enthusiasm for this book is my own.
November 19, 2025
Cara Devlin has cemented her place as a must-read author for me with The Daring Times of Fern Adair, a historical romance set against the backdrop of 1925 Chicago. This novel blends emotion and forbidden romance with genuine historical peril, creating a story that is as dangerous as it is deeply moving. Devlin proves once again that a great historical romance can also be a gritty, high-stakes adventure.
The story introduces us to Fern Adair, a young woman living a gilded, yet sheltered, existence. Scarred in a childhood house fire, Fern has spent most of her life hidden away in her family’s wealthy Chicago home, shielded from the judgment of the outside world. Her refuge shatters when her district court judge father and mother begin hosting weekly dinners, not out of love, but as a clumsy, paid attempt to find her a husband and solve their "problem." The wealthy suitors who attend rarely look her way twice.
The sheltered life Fern knows is altered by the arrival of Calvin “Cal” Rosetti. Cal is the older brother and ruthless enforcer for one of the city's most dangerous criminal kingpins. He is anything but a gentleman; his intentions are strictly nefarious, driven by a desire for revenge against Fern’s brother, who wronged the Rosetti crime family. Cal plans to use Fern as a pawn to settle the score.
This explosive premise immediately thrusts Fern out of her isolation and into Cal’s illicit underworld of speakeasies, bootlegging, and danger. As their paths become tangled, they find themselves fighting a powerful, forbidden attraction, forcing them to choose between their lives, their families, and their hearts.
The greatest strength of this novel lies in the transformation of both lead characters. Fern's journey is one of radical self-discovery and independence. She starts as a physical and emotional recluse, defined by her scars and her family’s pity. She is initially resigned to being a pawn. However, the dangerous chaos surrounding Cal sparks a deep core of resilience and rebellion she never knew she possessed. Her arc is about tearing down the walls built by her cruel, status-obsessed family, and finding her true value. Her experience, which includes being abandoned by her family, forces her into true self-reliance, resulting in a powerful, hard-won self-acceptance.
Cal's is the perfectly executed "morally grey" hero. As an enforcer, he is ruthless and dangerous, yet Devlin manages to peel back the layers to reveal a complex man with his own moral code and a conscience. Cal is initially driven by vengeance, using Fern with cold calculation. His arc is the softening of a cynical man; he becomes the one person who truly sees Fern beyond her physical imperfections. His initial scheme falls apart not because of outside forces, but because of his growing, undeniable love for the woman he intended to break.
The romance between them is built on a tenuous truce and a powerful, forbidden connection, leading to a deeply emotional and satisfying slow-burn.
Devlin uses the 1925 Chicago setting not just as a backdrop, but as a driving force in the story. The Prohibition era—with its corruption, powerful mob cartels, and the contrast between the glamorous elite and the gritty underworld—is seamlessly integrated. The danger that pervades the story feels authentic to the time, from the excitement of the speakeasies to the menace of the gang rivalry that entraps Fern’s family. The emotional depth is palpable; the violence and political turmoil act as a pressure cooker, intensifying the bond and the risks faced by Fern and Cal.
The Daring Times of Fern Adair is a layered story of transformation, resilience, and the power of finding love where you least expect it. It’s packed with emotion, romance, and danger. Given the unique blend of history, complexity, and compelling characters, I couldn't put it down. I highly recommend this book, and I can confidently say I’ll be picking up anything else Cara Devlin writes in the future!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
The story introduces us to Fern Adair, a young woman living a gilded, yet sheltered, existence. Scarred in a childhood house fire, Fern has spent most of her life hidden away in her family’s wealthy Chicago home, shielded from the judgment of the outside world. Her refuge shatters when her district court judge father and mother begin hosting weekly dinners, not out of love, but as a clumsy, paid attempt to find her a husband and solve their "problem." The wealthy suitors who attend rarely look her way twice.
The sheltered life Fern knows is altered by the arrival of Calvin “Cal” Rosetti. Cal is the older brother and ruthless enforcer for one of the city's most dangerous criminal kingpins. He is anything but a gentleman; his intentions are strictly nefarious, driven by a desire for revenge against Fern’s brother, who wronged the Rosetti crime family. Cal plans to use Fern as a pawn to settle the score.
This explosive premise immediately thrusts Fern out of her isolation and into Cal’s illicit underworld of speakeasies, bootlegging, and danger. As their paths become tangled, they find themselves fighting a powerful, forbidden attraction, forcing them to choose between their lives, their families, and their hearts.
The greatest strength of this novel lies in the transformation of both lead characters. Fern's journey is one of radical self-discovery and independence. She starts as a physical and emotional recluse, defined by her scars and her family’s pity. She is initially resigned to being a pawn. However, the dangerous chaos surrounding Cal sparks a deep core of resilience and rebellion she never knew she possessed. Her arc is about tearing down the walls built by her cruel, status-obsessed family, and finding her true value. Her experience, which includes being abandoned by her family, forces her into true self-reliance, resulting in a powerful, hard-won self-acceptance.
Cal's is the perfectly executed "morally grey" hero. As an enforcer, he is ruthless and dangerous, yet Devlin manages to peel back the layers to reveal a complex man with his own moral code and a conscience. Cal is initially driven by vengeance, using Fern with cold calculation. His arc is the softening of a cynical man; he becomes the one person who truly sees Fern beyond her physical imperfections. His initial scheme falls apart not because of outside forces, but because of his growing, undeniable love for the woman he intended to break.
The romance between them is built on a tenuous truce and a powerful, forbidden connection, leading to a deeply emotional and satisfying slow-burn.
Devlin uses the 1925 Chicago setting not just as a backdrop, but as a driving force in the story. The Prohibition era—with its corruption, powerful mob cartels, and the contrast between the glamorous elite and the gritty underworld—is seamlessly integrated. The danger that pervades the story feels authentic to the time, from the excitement of the speakeasies to the menace of the gang rivalry that entraps Fern’s family. The emotional depth is palpable; the violence and political turmoil act as a pressure cooker, intensifying the bond and the risks faced by Fern and Cal.
The Daring Times of Fern Adair is a layered story of transformation, resilience, and the power of finding love where you least expect it. It’s packed with emotion, romance, and danger. Given the unique blend of history, complexity, and compelling characters, I couldn't put it down. I highly recommend this book, and I can confidently say I’ll be picking up anything else Cara Devlin writes in the future!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 8, 2025
A beautifully layered story of love, transformation, and resilience.
I absolutely loved this book! As a longtime fan of the author, I had high expectations—and while this story is quite different from their usual work, it did not disappoint.
Set in 1920s Chicago, the novel follows Fern, the daughter of a judge, whose life was forever changed by a childhood fire that left her physically scarred and emotionally withdrawn. Fern rarely leaves her room, until her mother begins hosting weekly dinner parties with eligible bachelors in hopes of finding her a husband. These gatherings are painfully awkward for Fern, and most of the suitors are uninspiring at best.
The backdrop of organized crime and Prohibition-era tension adds a compelling layer to the story. One evening, an uninvited guest named Cal arrives at dinner to speak with Fern’s father. Fern is instantly intrigued and, in a rare moment of boldness, decides to follow him—setting off a journey that changes everything.
Without giving away spoilers, this is a love story wrapped in a gritty, suspenseful world of criminal intrigue. One of the most powerful elements is Fern’s personal transformation—from a fearful recluse to a strong, self-reliant woman. Her time at a farm for “social misfits,” sent there by her cruel family, adds depth and heart to the narrative.
I highly recommend this book. It’s a captivating blend of romance, historical fiction, and emotional growth. I’m even tempted to explore the author’s westerns—genres I didn’t think I’d enjoy—because their storytelling is just that good.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
I absolutely loved this book! As a longtime fan of the author, I had high expectations—and while this story is quite different from their usual work, it did not disappoint.
Set in 1920s Chicago, the novel follows Fern, the daughter of a judge, whose life was forever changed by a childhood fire that left her physically scarred and emotionally withdrawn. Fern rarely leaves her room, until her mother begins hosting weekly dinner parties with eligible bachelors in hopes of finding her a husband. These gatherings are painfully awkward for Fern, and most of the suitors are uninspiring at best.
The backdrop of organized crime and Prohibition-era tension adds a compelling layer to the story. One evening, an uninvited guest named Cal arrives at dinner to speak with Fern’s father. Fern is instantly intrigued and, in a rare moment of boldness, decides to follow him—setting off a journey that changes everything.
Without giving away spoilers, this is a love story wrapped in a gritty, suspenseful world of criminal intrigue. One of the most powerful elements is Fern’s personal transformation—from a fearful recluse to a strong, self-reliant woman. Her time at a farm for “social misfits,” sent there by her cruel family, adds depth and heart to the narrative.
I highly recommend this book. It’s a captivating blend of romance, historical fiction, and emotional growth. I’m even tempted to explore the author’s westerns—genres I didn’t think I’d enjoy—because their storytelling is just that good.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
October 26, 2025
A sensitive story about a young woman, scarred in a fire as a baby, whose own family was eager to see her placed in a “home” for those whom society has rejected due to mental or physical imperfections. The reader easily steps into Fern’s shoes and moves through the story with her. The character development is excellent, and the author has caught the flavor of the mid-1920’s in her writing.
This story develops on several levels at the same time, so that what we see is a cross section cut through the layers of society: the wealthy, healthy who put themselves above others; the criminals running mafia-like bootlegging cartels; a poor woman renting rooms out to single men to make a living; others shunned by “society” for their physical and mental imperfections. Fern’s parents fail to see Fern’s inner beauty and strength and toss her aside. This provides a powerful lesson for all who look for perfect children, and will not accept as “worthy’ children who fail to live up to what the parents consider beautiful and perfect.
Despite her family’s failure to value her, Fern was “seen” by a man who accidentally came to dinner! How they found each other and come to love each other forms the positive weight that offsets the darkness of other sections of the tale.
I could not put this book down until it was finished, This book has found an enduring place in my heart.
I received an early copy of the book from the author, without expectation of, or request for, a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
This story develops on several levels at the same time, so that what we see is a cross section cut through the layers of society: the wealthy, healthy who put themselves above others; the criminals running mafia-like bootlegging cartels; a poor woman renting rooms out to single men to make a living; others shunned by “society” for their physical and mental imperfections. Fern’s parents fail to see Fern’s inner beauty and strength and toss her aside. This provides a powerful lesson for all who look for perfect children, and will not accept as “worthy’ children who fail to live up to what the parents consider beautiful and perfect.
Despite her family’s failure to value her, Fern was “seen” by a man who accidentally came to dinner! How they found each other and come to love each other forms the positive weight that offsets the darkness of other sections of the tale.
I could not put this book down until it was finished, This book has found an enduring place in my heart.
I received an early copy of the book from the author, without expectation of, or request for, a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
November 15, 2025
The "Daring Times of Fern Adair" by Cara Devlin is a marked change of pace from her two most recent and current historical mystery series. It takes place in more recent times, a standalone book that is darker and has profanity and explicit sex and violence not found in her Bow Street Duchess or Spencer and Reid mysteries.
Fern Adair, badly scarred from a childhood fire is like a princess in a tower, living in a turret, afraid to be seen in public, protected from the real world by her mother and her prominent judge father, parents who bribe prospective suitors with dinners and gifts, and eventually send her away. Calvin Rosetti is a prohibition-era Chicago gangster, with a grudge against the family, who appears as an uninvited suitor at one of the dinners. Fern follows him when he leaves the dinner and begins a journey where she learns more about her family and how to live in the real world.
Not what I expected from Devlin, but a book I found hard to put down, reading the full advance copy on Halloween with interruptions only while preparing for and serving trick or treaters. This would be the thirteenth Devlin book I've read, probably the one that most captured my attention. It also seemed to possibly be more a labor of love than just another book to write.
I want to thank BookSirens and the author for offering the chance to review an advance copy. Since the blurb suggested the book would be unlike her others, I almost passed it by, but I'm glad I didn't. My opinions are entirely my own.
Fern Adair, badly scarred from a childhood fire is like a princess in a tower, living in a turret, afraid to be seen in public, protected from the real world by her mother and her prominent judge father, parents who bribe prospective suitors with dinners and gifts, and eventually send her away. Calvin Rosetti is a prohibition-era Chicago gangster, with a grudge against the family, who appears as an uninvited suitor at one of the dinners. Fern follows him when he leaves the dinner and begins a journey where she learns more about her family and how to live in the real world.
Not what I expected from Devlin, but a book I found hard to put down, reading the full advance copy on Halloween with interruptions only while preparing for and serving trick or treaters. This would be the thirteenth Devlin book I've read, probably the one that most captured my attention. It also seemed to possibly be more a labor of love than just another book to write.
I want to thank BookSirens and the author for offering the chance to review an advance copy. Since the blurb suggested the book would be unlike her others, I almost passed it by, but I'm glad I didn't. My opinions are entirely my own.
November 16, 2025
Another winner from Cara Devlin! I think I've loved every book of hers that I have read. Fern Adair faces incredible difficulties starting with her scarred face and body which keep her shut away in her room because she doesn't want people to stare at her. Her family just contributes to her problem. When she finally steps out, it is with a notorious gangster. Following her growth is fascinating. I read this in one sitting, turning pages as fast as I could.
November 27, 2025
Well written, full of drama, intrigue, darkness, suspense, adventure, family, evil, twists and yutns. Fern is a young lady who had a terrible accident during a fire at her parent's home when she was young. She now deals with the scars on half of her face and body stay alone in her room much of the time. Cal is at her home for dinner that he crashes one night and neither her brother or father are happy to see him. Cal is a bootlegger and a gangster, which she doesn't know. She sees him leave and follows him, only to be told to go back and then to follow everything he says. Cal's brother, Rod is a nasty piece of just ugly. As Cal and Fern share more time together , they realize that their emotional and personal journey takes them both into some bad and good places. Plans Cal makes fall apart and she is heartbroken the way it ends in her mind. Has so much happening in this story for them but so exciting the way the finally get their happily ever after. Does have some dark triggers so please be aware. Has lots of great history told during this story. Will keep you turning the pages and wanting more. Would recommend to others, hope for more of these books.
I received this story and leave this unbiased, honest review.
I received this story and leave this unbiased, honest review.
November 11, 2025
Fern Adair has spent her life tucked away in her family’s home, protecting the scarred half of her face from prying eyes. But her reclusive world fractures when her parents decide it’s time for her to find a husband. Despite her family’s wealth, no potential suitor looks Fern’s way twice... Until one evening, a mysterious stranger arrives. Calvin Rosetti, one of the city's most dangerous criminal kingpins, doesn't have honourable intentions. He wants revenge against the Adair family, and he plans to use Fern to even the score. As he Draws her into his illicit underworld, Cal discovers Fern is more than just a pawn to be played
I don’t usually read books set in the prohibition era but I’ve loved the author’s other books So had to read it & I wasn’t disappointed. Strong characters I loved Fern & Cal but disliked almost everyone else. My heart bled so many times for Fern & I was definitely in her court, I loved how strong she was & how she gained confidence throughout the book. I also loved Cal, yes he was a gangster but he saw Fern & I loved how he fell for her & how he was there for her. I found it very hard to put down as it was enthralling, captivating & engrossing
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
I don’t usually read books set in the prohibition era but I’ve loved the author’s other books So had to read it & I wasn’t disappointed. Strong characters I loved Fern & Cal but disliked almost everyone else. My heart bled so many times for Fern & I was definitely in her court, I loved how strong she was & how she gained confidence throughout the book. I also loved Cal, yes he was a gangster but he saw Fern & I loved how he fell for her & how he was there for her. I found it very hard to put down as it was enthralling, captivating & engrossing
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
November 16, 2025
Cara Devlin's new book leaves the Victorian timeline and a murder mysteries for the 1920s. Her words easily paint the scene with discriptions of speakeasys and flapper styles, even the 1920s slang is put to appropriate use. The main characters are opposites but eventually come to see something in each other, I liked that Cal tried to get rid of her, but found himself returning. There is a slow burn to the romance that adds to the realism of the romance. Part of this is due to the fact that the novel is only told from Fern's perspective, and he is a enigmatic figure. Our main character Fern is scared from a childhood fire, and her family try to control every element of her life, causing her to Rebel and find her independence through Cal. The layers of the story that unravels around them is addictive, and shows the research that the author put into the book.
I wasn't sure what I'd find when I started reading this book but I was quickly enthralled in the world and really enjoyed this book. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I wasn't sure what I'd find when I started reading this book but I was quickly enthralled in the world and really enjoyed this book. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 16, 2025
5 stars!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 LOVED THIS BOOK!! A new favourite!! At last!!
This, this book right here is what I’ve been desperate to read for so so long. Brilliantly written with a writing style I love!!
This year has not been a great reading year for me and I thought I was going to end 2025 without adding a single book to my “absolute favourite” shelf…but today for the first time since September 2024 I’m finally able to add a book to this shelf. I was beginning to think the days of finding an “absolute favourite” read was over, but thank goodness Cara Devlin, Fern and Cal have come along and changed that. This book gripped from the very first page and once I started reading I couldn’t stop. That’s very rare for me these days. It’s been a long time since a book consumed me like this.
This is the first Cara Devlin book that I’ve read. She has been on my radar for a while and even though I already have a few of her books on my shelf I’ve just never got round to reading them. The time has never felt quite right. A few weeks back I saw a fellow Goodreads reader post about this book on their feed and after reading the blurb I thought that sounds like a bit of me and I eagerly added it to my “want to read” shelf and then when the book was released on the 15th November I went straight over to Australian kindle store (I’m in the UK) to read the sample and see if this book was for me - I didn’t want wait until midnight U.K. time for the sample to be uploaded and I had a free Friday afternoon off work where I spent a nice time in Pret reading the sample on the Aussie kindle store and of course loving what I read and I immediately went over to UK kindle store and pre ordered the book and then I excitedly waiting until midnight for it to drop onto my kindle so I could continue reading. And continue reading I did, here I am less than 24 hours later finished and am now in love with Cara’s writing and Fern and Cal.
I’m so happy I took a chance on this book, you just never know when a new favourite will land in your lap.
I loved the author note at the end of the book too, I always enjoy reading about how authors (especially historical) go about their research and as this particular time in history is not one I’m really familiar with I really enjoyed learning about the Prohibition era, the speakeasies and bootleggers.
Also I really think more authors should release their books on a Saturday, for me at least it works out really well, especially this time of year when it’s cold, rainy and dark outside and all I want to do is stay in and read, on a Saturday I have no pesky job getting in the way of my reading time.
I’m 100% going to start reading my existing Cara Devlin books that I have on my shelves soon, just as soon as I get over Fern Adair hangover.
This, this book right here is what I’ve been desperate to read for so so long. Brilliantly written with a writing style I love!!
This year has not been a great reading year for me and I thought I was going to end 2025 without adding a single book to my “absolute favourite” shelf…but today for the first time since September 2024 I’m finally able to add a book to this shelf. I was beginning to think the days of finding an “absolute favourite” read was over, but thank goodness Cara Devlin, Fern and Cal have come along and changed that. This book gripped from the very first page and once I started reading I couldn’t stop. That’s very rare for me these days. It’s been a long time since a book consumed me like this.
This is the first Cara Devlin book that I’ve read. She has been on my radar for a while and even though I already have a few of her books on my shelf I’ve just never got round to reading them. The time has never felt quite right. A few weeks back I saw a fellow Goodreads reader post about this book on their feed and after reading the blurb I thought that sounds like a bit of me and I eagerly added it to my “want to read” shelf and then when the book was released on the 15th November I went straight over to Australian kindle store (I’m in the UK) to read the sample and see if this book was for me - I didn’t want wait until midnight U.K. time for the sample to be uploaded and I had a free Friday afternoon off work where I spent a nice time in Pret reading the sample on the Aussie kindle store and of course loving what I read and I immediately went over to UK kindle store and pre ordered the book and then I excitedly waiting until midnight for it to drop onto my kindle so I could continue reading. And continue reading I did, here I am less than 24 hours later finished and am now in love with Cara’s writing and Fern and Cal.
I’m so happy I took a chance on this book, you just never know when a new favourite will land in your lap.
I loved the author note at the end of the book too, I always enjoy reading about how authors (especially historical) go about their research and as this particular time in history is not one I’m really familiar with I really enjoyed learning about the Prohibition era, the speakeasies and bootleggers.
Also I really think more authors should release their books on a Saturday, for me at least it works out really well, especially this time of year when it’s cold, rainy and dark outside and all I want to do is stay in and read, on a Saturday I have no pesky job getting in the way of my reading time.
I’m 100% going to start reading my existing Cara Devlin books that I have on my shelves soon, just as soon as I get over Fern Adair hangover.
November 12, 2025
I started The Daring Times of Fern Adair and couldn't put it down. I got swept up in the romance between Fern and Cal. Cara Devlin is a brilliant author. She can create a world that seems so real and writes characters that are so well developed. I am a fan of historical fiction that takes place during Prohibition Era, Chicago. The author definitely did alot of research on the time.
Fern is a woman badly scared, that was the result of a fire when she was a baby. She has been a recluse in her parents' home. Her mother has been trying to marry her off by arranging for eligible men to come to dinner where she offers incentives in the form of "gifts" to these men. One evening, Calvin Rosetti, comes to dinner. A gangster/criminal with his own agenda and meets Fern.
As Fern and Cal get to know each other, both grow as individuals and fall in love. There are obstacles to overcome and danger to face that will keep you on the edge of your seat. This is definitely a must read!
I received an advance review copy for free, from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Fern is a woman badly scared, that was the result of a fire when she was a baby. She has been a recluse in her parents' home. Her mother has been trying to marry her off by arranging for eligible men to come to dinner where she offers incentives in the form of "gifts" to these men. One evening, Calvin Rosetti, comes to dinner. A gangster/criminal with his own agenda and meets Fern.
As Fern and Cal get to know each other, both grow as individuals and fall in love. There are obstacles to overcome and danger to face that will keep you on the edge of your seat. This is definitely a must read!
I received an advance review copy for free, from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 12, 2025
Caution tape may be needed as you delve into Chicago during prohibition. I am normally not a fan of the 20’s but Fern’s character drew me in. She has led a very sheltered life, and the people around her perceive her as shy. For all her scars, both mentally and physically she is a strong woman. Perhaps she just needed a little push into a different reality. When that tsunami hits, she rises to the waves and engages fully into this new life. By her side, an unlikely ally, Cal draws her in. Both have families, secrets and danger follow them like wolves hunting. This is a page turner. No surprise to me as I have loved all her books. She drew me into this world and I loved every minute. Strong characters, good and bad, secrets uncovered, lives transformed and perhaps justice served. This is a great read and a homage to healing through the transformation of love. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 10, 2025
I was up all night finishing this and it kicked me out of a book funk. I felt immersed in 1920s Chicago between the description of clothes, the lingo and the info regarding Prohibition. Both main characters aren’t the easiest to like. One is sheltered and living a passive life and the other is a criminal/gangster. Honestly, when they first meet I wasn’t sure where we were headed. They both had so many obstacles to deal with-together and individually. There are many twists and turns and it has a satisfying ending.
I received an ARC for review and if you’re looking for a real, emotional historical fiction book to keep you interest so you finish in a day this is it.
I received an ARC for review and if you’re looking for a real, emotional historical fiction book to keep you interest so you finish in a day this is it.
January 1, 2026
1925 CHICAGO
Gangsters, bootlegging, speakeasies, corruption, murder and gang wars. Not the time period I usually read, but Devlin writes some good historical romance books. I stayed up all night to read this one. A young woman with scars from a fire, the daughter of a district court judge, gets involved with a member of a gang. Then it turns into kidnapping,blackmail, redemption and love.
Mild descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from Booksirens.
Gangsters, bootlegging, speakeasies, corruption, murder and gang wars. Not the time period I usually read, but Devlin writes some good historical romance books. I stayed up all night to read this one. A young woman with scars from a fire, the daughter of a district court judge, gets involved with a member of a gang. Then it turns into kidnapping,blackmail, redemption and love.
Mild descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from Booksirens.
January 7, 2026
Extraordinary storytelling. This story is like a crazy, out-of-control roller coaster. The first few pages of set-up are like the first climb but then it’s nonstop from there on. We are given few opportunities to catch our breath.
As for the story itself; it is a combination of Romeo & Juliet, Beauty & the Beast and The Godfather. For those of you as finicky as I am about the details, the book leaves many unanswered questions. But none are disqualifying and would probably have slowed the story. This would be a great movie.
As for the story itself; it is a combination of Romeo & Juliet, Beauty & the Beast and The Godfather. For those of you as finicky as I am about the details, the book leaves many unanswered questions. But none are disqualifying and would probably have slowed the story. This would be a great movie.
December 7, 2025
Cara Devlin does an amazing job in writing this historical romance novel, it had that element that I was looking for from previous writing from Cara Devlin and enjoyed how everything was used in the time-period. I was glad everything flowed well with the characters and how it used the overall concept well. I thought the use of the Mafia was a great addition to this book and was invested in what was happening.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 16, 2025
Enjoyable and original story...
November 16, 2025
The beginning was very good but then it became too soft. I liked the MMC at the beginning, he seemed strong and dark but then he was just a pushover…
November 4, 2025
When I first heard about this book, I was not sure I would want to read it since it sounded so different from the author’s two mystery series, which I absolutely loved. But when I received an advance review copy for free, I decided to give it a go. I am so happy I did and what follows is my honest voluntary review.
This book definitely has a darker tone in language and actions than previous books by this author. It does not fit neatly into a particular genre—it has elements of historical fiction, romance, coming-of-age, and female empowerment.
The story is told entirely from Fern’s perspective. It starts out strong immediately immersing you in Fern’s world, her thoughts and feelings. And the author quickly introduces the male protagonist, Cal, and entangles Fern with him and his world. The middle section of the book started to drag a little for me, but the last third of the book was an action-packed emotional roller coaster. I had been leaning toward a strong four stars until that final third (and the heart-wrenching conclusion) catapulted it to a solid five stars. I was holding my breath through the last few chapters and was in tears by the end.
I wanted to shake Fern every time she started thinking, “I shouldn’t be doing this” or “I shouldn’t be going there.” But given how she was raised and the way everyone close to her used and abused her, it was understandable. Cal, while not exactly a gangster-with-a-heart-of-gold, operated by his own moral code. Everything he did was to protect Fern while walking a razor’s edge trying to keep his brother in line. By the last third of the book, I was rooting for Fern and Cal—these two broken people—to find peace and happiness, both for themselves and as a couple.
In reflecting back the morning after finishing the book, I realized the things that happened in the middle section of the book were actually necessary to get the characters to that final third of the story. Each action and interaction throughout the book led to the next one to set up the final third of the story and bring about the gut-wrenching, heart-stopping, tear-inducing final chapters. All of this is to say give this book a chance and stick with it through the slow build to the satisfying conclusion that will stay with you long after you read the final words.
This book definitely has a darker tone in language and actions than previous books by this author. It does not fit neatly into a particular genre—it has elements of historical fiction, romance, coming-of-age, and female empowerment.
The story is told entirely from Fern’s perspective. It starts out strong immediately immersing you in Fern’s world, her thoughts and feelings. And the author quickly introduces the male protagonist, Cal, and entangles Fern with him and his world. The middle section of the book started to drag a little for me, but the last third of the book was an action-packed emotional roller coaster. I had been leaning toward a strong four stars until that final third (and the heart-wrenching conclusion) catapulted it to a solid five stars. I was holding my breath through the last few chapters and was in tears by the end.
I wanted to shake Fern every time she started thinking, “I shouldn’t be doing this” or “I shouldn’t be going there.” But given how she was raised and the way everyone close to her used and abused her, it was understandable. Cal, while not exactly a gangster-with-a-heart-of-gold, operated by his own moral code. Everything he did was to protect Fern while walking a razor’s edge trying to keep his brother in line. By the last third of the book, I was rooting for Fern and Cal—these two broken people—to find peace and happiness, both for themselves and as a couple.
In reflecting back the morning after finishing the book, I realized the things that happened in the middle section of the book were actually necessary to get the characters to that final third of the story. Each action and interaction throughout the book led to the next one to set up the final third of the story and bring about the gut-wrenching, heart-stopping, tear-inducing final chapters. All of this is to say give this book a chance and stick with it through the slow build to the satisfying conclusion that will stay with you long after you read the final words.
November 13, 2025
A realistic story of what it would be like to have lived during the Roaring 20s with a very different love story added as a bonus. Fern Adair was badly burned in a fire when she was a youngster, a fire in which her nanny died protecting her from even more damage. The socially prominent Adair family really were ashamed of Fern and her scarred visage and kept her in a cage, albeit a luxurious one. When Fern meets George Black, aka Clean Cal Rossetti, she is fascinated by this man she should not like at all, let alone want to know better. How these two people from vastly different social circles, one a socialite and the other a gangster, work out their differences is a terrific read and a very different one from others I've read about this period in our history. Lots of murder and mayhem here, but also loyalty and love as well. I heartily recommend this book, very atypical of the usual romance. Although I received a complimentary review copy of this novel from BookSirens, my opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
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