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Scoundrels of St. James #1
In Bed with the Devil
They call him the Devil Earl—a scoundrel and accused murderer who grew up on the violent London streets. A proper young lady risks more than her reputation when consorting with the roguishly handsome Lucian Langdon, but Lady Catherine Mabry believes she has no choice. To protect those she loves, she would do anything—even strike a bargain with the devil himself. Lucian desires respectability and a wife above all else, but the woman of his choosing lacks the social graces to be accepted by the aristocracy. Catherine can help Lucian gain everything he wants. But what she asks for in exchange will put their very lives in jeopardy. When danger closes in, Catherine discovers a man of immense passion and he discovers a woman of immeasurable courage. As secrets from his dark past are revealed, Lucian begins to question everything he knows to be true, including the yearnings of his own heart.
371 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 4, 2008
391 people are currently reading
12182 people want to read
About the author
Lorraine Heath
90 books4,372 followersAlso writes Young Adult under Rachel Hawthorne, Jade Parker, and with her son as J.A. London.
Lorraine Heath has always had a soft spot for emotional love stories. No doubt because growing up, watching movies with her mom, she was taught that the best movies "won't half make you cry."
She is the daughter of a British beauty (her mom won second place in a beauty contest sponsored by Max Factor® during which she received a kiss from Caesar Romero, (the Joker on the original Batman TV series) and a Texan who was stationed at Bovingdon while serving in the air force. Lorraine was born in Watford, Hertfordshire, England, but soon after moved to Texas. Her "dual" nationality has given her a love for all things British and Texan, and she enjoys weaving both heritages through her stories.
When she received her BA degree in psychology from the University of Texas, she had no idea she had gained a foundation that would help her to create believable characters—characters that are often described as “real people.” She began her career writing training manuals and computer code for the IRS, but something was always missing. When she read a romance novel, she became not only hooked on the genre, but quickly realized what her writing lacked: rebels, scoundrels, and rogues. She's been writing about them ever since.
Her work has been recognized with numerous industry awards including RWA's RITA®. Her novels have appeared on bestseller lists, including USA TODAY and the New York Times.
The author of more than 60 novels, she writes historical and contemporary romance for adults and historical romance for teen readers.
Under the names Rachel Hawthorne and Jade Parker, she writes popular contemporary, historical, and paranormal romance for teens readers. She also writes young adult novels with her son under the name J. A. London.
Lorraine Heath has always had a soft spot for emotional love stories. No doubt because growing up, watching movies with her mom, she was taught that the best movies "won't half make you cry."
She is the daughter of a British beauty (her mom won second place in a beauty contest sponsored by Max Factor® during which she received a kiss from Caesar Romero, (the Joker on the original Batman TV series) and a Texan who was stationed at Bovingdon while serving in the air force. Lorraine was born in Watford, Hertfordshire, England, but soon after moved to Texas. Her "dual" nationality has given her a love for all things British and Texan, and she enjoys weaving both heritages through her stories.
When she received her BA degree in psychology from the University of Texas, she had no idea she had gained a foundation that would help her to create believable characters—characters that are often described as “real people.” She began her career writing training manuals and computer code for the IRS, but something was always missing. When she read a romance novel, she became not only hooked on the genre, but quickly realized what her writing lacked: rebels, scoundrels, and rogues. She's been writing about them ever since.
Her work has been recognized with numerous industry awards including RWA's RITA®. Her novels have appeared on bestseller lists, including USA TODAY and the New York Times.
The author of more than 60 novels, she writes historical and contemporary romance for adults and historical romance for teen readers.
Under the names Rachel Hawthorne and Jade Parker, she writes popular contemporary, historical, and paranormal romance for teens readers. She also writes young adult novels with her son under the name J. A. London.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,350 reviews
September 29, 2020
4 stars
This one was a very nice surprise.
The plot intrigued me and the story didn’t disappoint. Even so, the thing I liked most about this were the characters. Not only are the protagonists very likeable but the side characters were also such an assortment of personalities and they really stood out.
The dialogue was intelligent, witty and funny at times. It really painted a picture as to whom the characters really are.
Another thing I appreciated was the female lead. Whenever I see heroines described as: fierce, independent, intelligent, sassy, “gives as good as she gets”, more than 50% of the time what I get is a wannabe or often enough an idiot who makes stupid decisions because she’s “an independent woman, hear her roar type of attitude”. She usually creates more trouble and ends up needing more help or she’s simply unjustifiably angry and mean(cause apparently, that shows personality).
Anyway, long story short, this heroine was truly great. Smart, cautious, a realist. She was just such a well balanced person, I mean, how did that happen?!
And the couple had chemistry. Yes, he spends more than half the book saying he “loves” another woman, but when you read the book, you can tell that he is not talking about romantic love, but he can’t really differentiate. The other woman knows they are more like brother and sister and deep down he knows it too but he’s trying to make it more because he is lonely. I’m just saying this, in case anyone is put off by that aspect of the story.
This one was a very nice surprise.
The plot intrigued me and the story didn’t disappoint. Even so, the thing I liked most about this were the characters. Not only are the protagonists very likeable but the side characters were also such an assortment of personalities and they really stood out.
The dialogue was intelligent, witty and funny at times. It really painted a picture as to whom the characters really are.
Another thing I appreciated was the female lead. Whenever I see heroines described as: fierce, independent, intelligent, sassy, “gives as good as she gets”, more than 50% of the time what I get is a wannabe or often enough an idiot who makes stupid decisions because she’s “an independent woman, hear her roar type of attitude”. She usually creates more trouble and ends up needing more help or she’s simply unjustifiably angry and mean(cause apparently, that shows personality).
Anyway, long story short, this heroine was truly great. Smart, cautious, a realist. She was just such a well balanced person, I mean, how did that happen?!
And the couple had chemistry. Yes, he spends more than half the book saying he “loves” another woman, but when you read the book, you can tell that he is not talking about romantic love, but he can’t really differentiate. The other woman knows they are more like brother and sister and deep down he knows it too but he’s trying to make it more because he is lonely. I’m just saying this, in case anyone is put off by that aspect of the story.
November 26, 2021
5 Devil Earl Stars
In bed with the Devil was my very first book by Lorraine Heath and I wonder why it took so long for me to give her a try. I absolutely loved this book. This book captured my interest from the first chapter and I couldn't put it down. I not only fell in love with Lucian and Catherine, but the secondary characters too. James, Winnie, Jack, Frannie, William and Sterling were all so intriguing and I can't wait to learn more about each of them.
The chemistry and connection between Lucian and Catherine from the start was off the charts. I loved them as a couple. Catherine was so strong and independent. I loved that she had such dignity in the face of pain and human cruelty. She didn't let her circumstances dictate her actions. I thought Lucian was sweet with just and enough bad boy to make him dangerously yummy! I did want to shake him when it took him so long to figure out that he didn't "love Love" Frannie. Still it was clear as day he adored Catherine and it helped that he never touched Frannie. I thought Catherine and Lucian were not only great together the way they supported each other but that they really brought out the best in the other.
My heart broke for all the of Feagan's gang of kids. I know each have some painful backstories that will come to light when their books come, but just what I know already is heartbreaking. I hated that Jack had kept something so important from Lucian but I was glad they were able to repair their relationship even if not as strong as before. Overall this book took me on a ride. I loved that it brought out all the emotions in me. It had me happy, sad, mad, aching, and swooning. When a book completely envelops me for hours and has me excited for the next one then it's a total 5 star read for me! I can't wait for Jack's story!
In bed with the Devil was my very first book by Lorraine Heath and I wonder why it took so long for me to give her a try. I absolutely loved this book. This book captured my interest from the first chapter and I couldn't put it down. I not only fell in love with Lucian and Catherine, but the secondary characters too. James, Winnie, Jack, Frannie, William and Sterling were all so intriguing and I can't wait to learn more about each of them.
The chemistry and connection between Lucian and Catherine from the start was off the charts. I loved them as a couple. Catherine was so strong and independent. I loved that she had such dignity in the face of pain and human cruelty. She didn't let her circumstances dictate her actions. I thought Lucian was sweet with just and enough bad boy to make him dangerously yummy! I did want to shake him when it took him so long to figure out that he didn't "love Love" Frannie. Still it was clear as day he adored Catherine and it helped that he never touched Frannie. I thought Catherine and Lucian were not only great together the way they supported each other but that they really brought out the best in the other.
My heart broke for all the of Feagan's gang of kids. I know each have some painful backstories that will come to light when their books come, but just what I know already is heartbreaking. I hated that Jack had kept something so important from Lucian but I was glad they were able to repair their relationship even if not as strong as before. Overall this book took me on a ride. I loved that it brought out all the emotions in me. It had me happy, sad, mad, aching, and swooning. When a book completely envelops me for hours and has me excited for the next one then it's a total 5 star read for me! I can't wait for Jack's story!
February 6, 2017
4.53 *
Basic elements of the story are quite familiar. An orphan boy living on the street with his gang of thieves. Becoming a lord someway. Aaand years later, we have a scoundrel of such a greatness, even one dance with him will cause the ruination of the maidens. Enter the heroine, obsessively intrigued by the dark lord. Upon finding herself in a predicament, she visits his house at night and strucks a deal with him. You've read this shit umpteenth times, huh? Well, nope, you didn't! The author took the romance tropes, shook her bosoms, plucked some brains, did her mojo and gave us something different! Well done lady, well done bosoms!
*summary of the paragraph above in the picture format
Don't go into this book, expecting a light, funny HR story. It was gloomy without actually being gloomy. *yes it makes sense. somehow in some alternate universe* There were mentions of rape, murder, abuse. Nothing too graphic but enough to make this more than just a fluffy story. The hero and heroine doesn't get to the naked vals part till the last third of the book and there is a third woman from the start. Hero loves her. Anything else I say would be too spoilery. I hate love triangles and cheating, and this here was neither.
Was it an awesome work of literature? Or even the best HR I've read? Nope. Then why am I all ravey and bubbly about it? I don't know, just go with it.
Basic elements of the story are quite familiar. An orphan boy living on the street with his gang of thieves. Becoming a lord someway. Aaand years later, we have a scoundrel of such a greatness, even one dance with him will cause the ruination of the maidens. Enter the heroine, obsessively intrigued by the dark lord. Upon finding herself in a predicament, she visits his house at night and strucks a deal with him. You've read this shit umpteenth times, huh? Well, nope, you didn't! The author took the romance tropes, shook her bosoms, plucked some brains, did her mojo and gave us something different! Well done lady, well done bosoms!
*summary of the paragraph above in the picture format
Don't go into this book, expecting a light, funny HR story. It was gloomy without actually being gloomy. *yes it makes sense. somehow in some alternate universe* There were mentions of rape, murder, abuse. Nothing too graphic but enough to make this more than just a fluffy story. The hero and heroine doesn't get to the naked vals part till the last third of the book and there is a third woman from the start. Hero loves her. Anything else I say would be too spoilery. I hate love triangles and cheating, and this here was neither.
Was it an awesome work of literature? Or even the best HR I've read? Nope. Then why am I all ravey and bubbly about it? I don't know, just go with it.
October 26, 2020
3.5 stars
“The price you pay for waltzing with the devil is residing in hell.”
This was sweet and really enjoyable. I enjoyed the witty fun dialogue a lot. Catherine, the heroine, was the star of this book. She’s a TRUE strong fierce heroine and not one who changes once she is with a man. My only complain is that the hero’s indecision about his feelings really dragged. I kept hoping that he would make up his mind and realise who he truly love, but it took him so long! Like till the end of the book? The writing was really good and the story was so enjoyable, but I just wanted more of the two main characters without the hero constantly convincing himself that he’s in love with someone else. Because I really liked Catherine and he was being super annoying.
“The price you pay for waltzing with the devil is residing in hell.”
This was sweet and really enjoyable. I enjoyed the witty fun dialogue a lot. Catherine, the heroine, was the star of this book. She’s a TRUE strong fierce heroine and not one who changes once she is with a man. My only complain is that the hero’s indecision about his feelings really dragged. I kept hoping that he would make up his mind and realise who he truly love, but it took him so long! Like till the end of the book? The writing was really good and the story was so enjoyable, but I just wanted more of the two main characters without the hero constantly convincing himself that he’s in love with someone else. Because I really liked Catherine and he was being super annoying.
June 25, 2017
Reread 25/06/2017
I have not been reading for a while and this book popped into my head today for no reasons at all. I reread it and could not describe how this story connects with me on so many levels. This is my favorite book from Lorraine Heath. I love both characters, how they were individually and how they were together. I think Luke is the archetype of my kind of hero: a man who truly was in need of acceptance, and Catherine the archetype of my kind of heroine: level-headed, responsible, kind and gentle.
This time around I didn't even mind Frannie so much. I was thinking about reading Frannie and Sterling's story hoping that there will be more about Catherine and Luke.
The last paragraph of the book still packs a punch. I love it.
Reread (probably the 10th time) 15/06/2016
I am upgrading my original 4 stars rating to 5 stars. I have reread this book many times and every time I love the story, Luke and Catherine a little more.
This book's final sentence has made such an impression on me. I usually dislike a man who talks "pretty". But Lorraine Heath created Luke, whose affections and feelings rang true, who was indeed a lost soul redeemed. I won't spoil it for anyone by writing it down here. I will only say that I am deeply moved, every time I finish the book and read that final paragraph, and feel as if I too, have been rescued by this love story.
Original Review
This is a book, that made me sigh. I turned the last page and sighed.
Why? Because they don't write books like this anymore.
The gentle way the romance was portrayed in this book.......you just don't see it anymore in new authors. There was passion, without a doubt. But the softness, the tenderness, this is the old-school romance that made you feel warm in your heart. The writers of this new romance era like to shock readers with their crude and blatant sexual language to show us passion in the right-in-your-face way. This book has passion in the old-fashioned sense, the sex scenes are explicit but new writers, please take a lesson here for class. The sex scenes are actually there for a reason, not just to entice readers but to actually serve a purpose in the story. I am all for a good romp. But honestly, I am looking for some kind of a connection that does not largely depend on sex in my romances. Heath did that with Luke and Catherine. They were strangers who unknowingly to each other, shared a mutual attraction, then they were partners in "crime", helping each other to achieve goals which did not involve each other, then they were friends, coming to care for each other and wanting to help just because, then they were lovers, who shared passion knowing that it could only live for as long (or short) as a few days, then they were strangers again. Luke left Catherine alone because he did not know his own heart (still thinking that he wanted to marry his childhood friend Frannie) and because he wanted to preserve whatever reputation she had left. Catherine buried herself with taking care of her ailing father, chose to let Luke pursue his "happiness" with a woman he had loved since he was a boy, even
Then came the happily ever after when the idiotic (and I say this with a loving voice) Luke finally realized his love for Frannie was a love of the youth, comfortable and familar, the kind that one grew out of as one matured, whereas his love for Catherine was all-encompassingly desperate and foreign, and you know, the kind you read about in romance novels where they get married and in real life, your worst breakup.
It should be obvious that I loved Luke and Catherine as a couple. My favorite types of characters, hands down. I especially loved Catherine. This is one "tough" heroine. Please God save us all from those fake-tough heroines who throw a hissy fit when things don't go their way. Look to Catherine Mabry for a dignified and strong woman in love.
Luke's "adoration" for his childhood friend Frannie, man, I wanted to throw up whenever Frannie was mentioned. I suppose you could love 2 people at the same time. I know this to be true. But I should hope it is day-and-night clear who you are "in love with". You can love a lot of people but "to be in love with someone", it should be singular, not plural. I think, if you do not know who you are in love with, then you are not in love with anybody. And Heath had this Frannie thing going on for the entire book and Luke was so blind about how he felt about Frannie, it was very frustrating. I know Frannie is supposed to be paired with Catherine's older brother Sterling. And I have long decided that I will not read the story of Sterling Mabry and Frannie Darling. And that is way before I read Luke and Catherine's story. I just did not like Frannie as a character for reasons I cannot explain. This "all her male friends doting on her" thing annoys me. I don't know what is so special about her that everyone of Feagan's boys must devote his life to protecting her. And after I read this book, I suffered from too much frustration in this book with her to want to see her happily ever after.
This book may not be the hit of the month or as original as those overly sexual new romances popping out every month. But it is a gentle love story of 2 great characters, which I gratefully read with a soft smile.
I have not been reading for a while and this book popped into my head today for no reasons at all. I reread it and could not describe how this story connects with me on so many levels. This is my favorite book from Lorraine Heath. I love both characters, how they were individually and how they were together. I think Luke is the archetype of my kind of hero: a man who truly was in need of acceptance, and Catherine the archetype of my kind of heroine: level-headed, responsible, kind and gentle.
This time around I didn't even mind Frannie so much. I was thinking about reading Frannie and Sterling's story hoping that there will be more about Catherine and Luke.
The last paragraph of the book still packs a punch. I love it.
Reread (probably the 10th time) 15/06/2016
I am upgrading my original 4 stars rating to 5 stars. I have reread this book many times and every time I love the story, Luke and Catherine a little more.
This book's final sentence has made such an impression on me. I usually dislike a man who talks "pretty". But Lorraine Heath created Luke, whose affections and feelings rang true, who was indeed a lost soul redeemed. I won't spoil it for anyone by writing it down here. I will only say that I am deeply moved, every time I finish the book and read that final paragraph, and feel as if I too, have been rescued by this love story.
Original Review
This is a book, that made me sigh. I turned the last page and sighed.
Why? Because they don't write books like this anymore.
The gentle way the romance was portrayed in this book.......you just don't see it anymore in new authors. There was passion, without a doubt. But the softness, the tenderness, this is the old-school romance that made you feel warm in your heart. The writers of this new romance era like to shock readers with their crude and blatant sexual language to show us passion in the right-in-your-face way. This book has passion in the old-fashioned sense, the sex scenes are explicit but new writers, please take a lesson here for class. The sex scenes are actually there for a reason, not just to entice readers but to actually serve a purpose in the story. I am all for a good romp. But honestly, I am looking for some kind of a connection that does not largely depend on sex in my romances. Heath did that with Luke and Catherine. They were strangers who unknowingly to each other, shared a mutual attraction, then they were partners in "crime", helping each other to achieve goals which did not involve each other, then they were friends, coming to care for each other and wanting to help just because, then they were lovers, who shared passion knowing that it could only live for as long (or short) as a few days, then they were strangers again. Luke left Catherine alone because he did not know his own heart (still thinking that he wanted to marry his childhood friend Frannie) and because he wanted to preserve whatever reputation she had left. Catherine buried herself with taking care of her ailing father, chose to let Luke pursue his "happiness" with a woman he had loved since he was a boy, even
Then came the happily ever after when the idiotic (and I say this with a loving voice) Luke finally realized his love for Frannie was a love of the youth, comfortable and familar, the kind that one grew out of as one matured, whereas his love for Catherine was all-encompassingly desperate and foreign, and you know, the kind you read about in romance novels where they get married and in real life, your worst breakup.
It should be obvious that I loved Luke and Catherine as a couple. My favorite types of characters, hands down. I especially loved Catherine. This is one "tough" heroine. Please God save us all from those fake-tough heroines who throw a hissy fit when things don't go their way. Look to Catherine Mabry for a dignified and strong woman in love.
Luke's "adoration" for his childhood friend Frannie, man, I wanted to throw up whenever Frannie was mentioned. I suppose you could love 2 people at the same time. I know this to be true. But I should hope it is day-and-night clear who you are "in love with". You can love a lot of people but "to be in love with someone", it should be singular, not plural. I think, if you do not know who you are in love with, then you are not in love with anybody. And Heath had this Frannie thing going on for the entire book and Luke was so blind about how he felt about Frannie, it was very frustrating. I know Frannie is supposed to be paired with Catherine's older brother Sterling. And I have long decided that I will not read the story of Sterling Mabry and Frannie Darling. And that is way before I read Luke and Catherine's story. I just did not like Frannie as a character for reasons I cannot explain. This "all her male friends doting on her" thing annoys me. I don't know what is so special about her that everyone of Feagan's boys must devote his life to protecting her. And after I read this book, I suffered from too much frustration in this book with her to want to see her happily ever after.
This book may not be the hit of the month or as original as those overly sexual new romances popping out every month. But it is a gentle love story of 2 great characters, which I gratefully read with a soft smile.
April 29, 2022
A masterful story and a swoony romance. Absolutely loved this one.
Full thoughts in my next vlog 4/25
Full thoughts in my next vlog 4/25
April 10, 2017
Buenísima. He leído otras novelas ambientadas en los bajos fondos de Londres, pero ninguna con un halo de oscuridad tan bien logrado. Quizá influye mucho la caracterización de Luke; no me costaba para nada imaginarlo bebiendo en su biblioteca, apenas iluminada, tratando de acallar sus propios demonios.
Por eso creo que uno de los principales méritos de la historia es aprender a conocer a este personaje a través de los ojos de Catherine. Él no cambia durante la novela, sino que con ella, poquito a poco, empieza a bajar las barreras con las que siempre se protege y nos permite llegar a su verdadera naturaleza.
Catherine me ha encantado, una mujer de una energía y fortaleza increíbles, capaz de arriesgarse y sacrificarse por lo que cree y por los que quiere. El único “pero” de su caracterización es que a veces me chocaba la libertad que gozaba para una mujer de la aristocracia en la época en que está ambientado el libro. Aunque se trata de justificar por la ausencia de una figura masculina en la casa (padre muy enfermo y un hermano medio desaparecido por el mundo), su comportamiento y actuar me pareció demasiado “moderno”.
La trama y el misterio asociado a los orígenes de Luke están muy bien desarrollados, aunque quizá son un poquito previsibles.
Lo dejo en 4 estrellas porque el final fue demasiado precipitado y después de todo lo que habían pasado los personajes llego a las últimas páginas y me digo “¿¿y eso es todo??”. Porque sí, desde la mitad del libro quería darle unas buenas sacudidas a Luke por ser tan obtuso y no reconocer sus verdaderos sentimientos, tanto hacia Catherine como hacia Frannie, su amiga de la infancia y con quien quería casarse. Y cuando por fin cae, todo se soluciona rápidamente y se acaba. Si la autora le hubiera dedicado unas páginas más y un poco más de tensión al desenlace….
Por eso creo que uno de los principales méritos de la historia es aprender a conocer a este personaje a través de los ojos de Catherine. Él no cambia durante la novela, sino que con ella, poquito a poco, empieza a bajar las barreras con las que siempre se protege y nos permite llegar a su verdadera naturaleza.
Catherine me ha encantado, una mujer de una energía y fortaleza increíbles, capaz de arriesgarse y sacrificarse por lo que cree y por los que quiere. El único “pero” de su caracterización es que a veces me chocaba la libertad que gozaba para una mujer de la aristocracia en la época en que está ambientado el libro. Aunque se trata de justificar por la ausencia de una figura masculina en la casa (padre muy enfermo y un hermano medio desaparecido por el mundo), su comportamiento y actuar me pareció demasiado “moderno”.
La trama y el misterio asociado a los orígenes de Luke están muy bien desarrollados, aunque quizá son un poquito previsibles.
Lo dejo en 4 estrellas porque el final fue demasiado precipitado y después de todo lo que habían pasado los personajes llego a las últimas páginas y me digo “¿¿y eso es todo??”. Porque sí, desde la mitad del libro quería darle unas buenas sacudidas a Luke por ser tan obtuso y no reconocer sus verdaderos sentimientos, tanto hacia Catherine como hacia Frannie, su amiga de la infancia y con quien quería casarse. Y cuando por fin cae, todo se soluciona rápidamente y se acaba. Si la autora le hubiera dedicado unas páginas más y un poco más de tensión al desenlace….
November 2, 2021
4.5 stars
Another Lorraine Heath down and a great start to a new series! This has one of my favorite tropes where the heroine is actually helping the hero get the woman he loves. Katherine approaches Luke and asks him to kill someone for her because she has heard of his reputation for having killed someone in his past. Luke wants nothing to do with Katherine, but he sees an opportunity for her to help his future wife become a lady and integrated into society before he marries her. So they strike a deal two help one another. But he ends up falling for Katherine instead...
I really loved the angst in their relationship and the mystery revolving Luke's true identity. He has a lot of secrets and a really dark past that a lot of society judges him for. It was interesting how this all played out and how Luke detested his high status in society because he felt like he didn't deserve it. I also enjoyed how Katherine was trying to protect her friend and how that all played out. The only thing I didn't necessarily love was how long it took Luke to break up with the women he wanted to marry. Technically there was cheating in here and I thought he definitely could have cut off that relationship much sooner than he did. But overall this was another great book from Lorraine Heath!
Another Lorraine Heath down and a great start to a new series! This has one of my favorite tropes where the heroine is actually helping the hero get the woman he loves. Katherine approaches Luke and asks him to kill someone for her because she has heard of his reputation for having killed someone in his past. Luke wants nothing to do with Katherine, but he sees an opportunity for her to help his future wife become a lady and integrated into society before he marries her. So they strike a deal two help one another. But he ends up falling for Katherine instead...
I really loved the angst in their relationship and the mystery revolving Luke's true identity. He has a lot of secrets and a really dark past that a lot of society judges him for. It was interesting how this all played out and how Luke detested his high status in society because he felt like he didn't deserve it. I also enjoyed how Katherine was trying to protect her friend and how that all played out. The only thing I didn't necessarily love was how long it took Luke to break up with the women he wanted to marry. Technically there was cheating in here and I thought he definitely could have cut off that relationship much sooner than he did. But overall this was another great book from Lorraine Heath!
March 11, 2016
They call him the Devil Earl—a scoundrel and accused murderer who grew up on the violent London streets. A proper young lady risks more than her reputation when consorting with the roguishly handsome Lucian Langdon, but Lady Catherine Mabry believes she has no choice. To protect those she loves, she would do anything—even strike a bargain with the devil himself.
Don't we all love a scoundrel? Enjoyed this one. Strong heroine, which I love. Great set of secondary characters who, I am sure will get their stories in future books.
Beneath his touch, he could feel her pulse quickening, fluttering like a tiny moth that had dared to approach the flame ...
Whether a sinner or a saint, he held her interest as no other man ever had.
Will definitely continue with this series.
He had only the light smattering of hair in the centre of his chest, and she wove her fingers through it.
The rain continued to patter against the pane.
... she saw a beautiful white lily ...
June 22, 2015
I initially wanted to give this book 5 stars, but halfway through it, I reduced my rating to 4, and now I'm giving it 3.
To be honest, I just really wanted a light read; I wasn't in the mood for heavy drama. That's why, when I read about the heroine's real reason for visiting the hero, I thought twice about continuing. I was really tempted to stop reading. But I didn't. This was just so hard to put down, and before I knew it, I was nearing the end of the book.
In Bed with the Devil is a surprisingly deep and complex novel. It touches on sensitive topics such as rape, violence, morality and the nature of love. You would think that combining all these elements together in a single book would prove to be too much--that maybe the writer bit off more than she could chew--but to Ms. Lorraine Heath's credit, she managed to pull it off. Not flawlessly, because the book was definitely not perfect, but satisfactorily. Yes, this book treads on dangerous and risky grounds, but it's a success in the end.It managed to hold my interest up to the last chapter, and entertained me with well developed characters.
Catherine is actually the saviour of this novel, for me. The quiet dignity with which she carried herself, her strength despite everything that happened--these all made the journey worth it for me, even though at times I felt hurt by the hero's indecision. And that strength was consistent throughout the novel; she wasn't strong in one moment and meek or weak-willed in another, a common fault in other historical romance novels. She actually reminded me of Alexandra from Johanna Lindsey's You Belong to Me. Both were willing to fight for what they believed in, and didn't bend for anyone. Their motto seemed to be, "I am my own woman, and if you can't handle that, then I can't be with you."
Luke wasn't bad, too. Actually, he was quite lovable. As in the case of the usual bad boys or devils in HR novels, he hides a gentle and caring side beneath the pile of rumours and scandals that society has dumped on him. He fancied himself in love with Frannie, but he couldn't resist his budding feelings for Catherine. He later on realized that he had a different type of love for the two women. But that was later on in the novel, nearing the end. His indecision about his feelings really proved to be a test for me, especially when I'm particularly put off with stories where the guy loves a different girl. It was more difficult because I really loved Catherine; this fondness for her just made the hurt more painful. I cried when she cried; I was equally devastated when she got her heart broken.
This book was a nice and beautiful read, but it left me wishing that somehow things were different. I wish that this novel didn't have to question my stand about what warrants murder or death. I wish that Luke didn't have to mention Frannie every damn chapter. I wish that the ending wasn't so rushed so that Luke had time to redeem himself for his indecision.
And I wish that he realized his true feelings earlier and didn't take the last few chapters to do so.
Despite all these, I really enjoyed the book. If you like strong heroines, then you should definitely read this!
***
By the way, here are my favourite quotes from the story:
“He was striving to intimidate. I’m not one to be intimidated. It seemed the perfect opportunity to demonstrate that part of my character,” Catherine said.
“What you demonstrated was that you are willful. No man wants a willful wife.”
“Then no man shall have me, for I’ll not change to please him.”
“I’m well aware that I’m not. But I’ll not spend my life cowering. That would be no life at all.”
To be honest, I just really wanted a light read; I wasn't in the mood for heavy drama. That's why, when I read about the heroine's real reason for visiting the hero, I thought twice about continuing. I was really tempted to stop reading. But I didn't. This was just so hard to put down, and before I knew it, I was nearing the end of the book.
In Bed with the Devil is a surprisingly deep and complex novel. It touches on sensitive topics such as rape, violence, morality and the nature of love. You would think that combining all these elements together in a single book would prove to be too much--that maybe the writer bit off more than she could chew--but to Ms. Lorraine Heath's credit, she managed to pull it off. Not flawlessly, because the book was definitely not perfect, but satisfactorily. Yes, this book treads on dangerous and risky grounds, but it's a success in the end.It managed to hold my interest up to the last chapter, and entertained me with well developed characters.
Catherine is actually the saviour of this novel, for me. The quiet dignity with which she carried herself, her strength despite everything that happened--these all made the journey worth it for me, even though at times I felt hurt by the hero's indecision. And that strength was consistent throughout the novel; she wasn't strong in one moment and meek or weak-willed in another, a common fault in other historical romance novels. She actually reminded me of Alexandra from Johanna Lindsey's You Belong to Me. Both were willing to fight for what they believed in, and didn't bend for anyone. Their motto seemed to be, "I am my own woman, and if you can't handle that, then I can't be with you."
Luke wasn't bad, too. Actually, he was quite lovable. As in the case of the usual bad boys or devils in HR novels, he hides a gentle and caring side beneath the pile of rumours and scandals that society has dumped on him. He fancied himself in love with Frannie, but he couldn't resist his budding feelings for Catherine. He later on realized that he had a different type of love for the two women. But that was later on in the novel, nearing the end. His indecision about his feelings really proved to be a test for me, especially when I'm particularly put off with stories where the guy loves a different girl. It was more difficult because I really loved Catherine; this fondness for her just made the hurt more painful. I cried when she cried; I was equally devastated when she got her heart broken.
This book was a nice and beautiful read, but it left me wishing that somehow things were different. I wish that this novel didn't have to question my stand about what warrants murder or death. I wish that Luke didn't have to mention Frannie every damn chapter. I wish that the ending wasn't so rushed so that Luke had time to redeem himself for his indecision.
And I wish that he realized his true feelings earlier and didn't take the last few chapters to do so.
Despite all these, I really enjoyed the book. If you like strong heroines, then you should definitely read this!
***
By the way, here are my favourite quotes from the story:
“He was striving to intimidate. I’m not one to be intimidated. It seemed the perfect opportunity to demonstrate that part of my character,” Catherine said.
“What you demonstrated was that you are willful. No man wants a willful wife.”
“Then no man shall have me, for I’ll not change to please him.”
“I’m well aware that I’m not. But I’ll not spend my life cowering. That would be no life at all.”
January 7, 2010
*sigh*
I was considering ending the review there, but I can't. I have to jabber a bit. What a great reading experience this book was. Very moving, but also amusing. Held my interest the entire time.
*sigh*
It's the story of Luke, the Earl of Claybourne, and Catherine, daughter of the Duke of Greystone. Luke was a poor kid on the streets from the age of around six until about twelve when he killed the heir to the Earl of Claybourne. When the old earl, the victim's father, met with Luke in prison, he recognized him as his grandson. Luke said 'yup, yup, yup' to all the old man's questions and was soon spirited home to a grand title and inheritance, a bounty he definitely doesn't think he deserves. He knows he lied to the old man in order to escape hanging. No matter how badly the man he killed deserved death, the law wasn't on Luke's side and Luke's darn sure he isn't an earl.
But whether he believes it or not, our hero has inherited the earldom, is known as 'the devil earl', co-owns a gambling establishment with his best friend from his street days, Jack Dodger, and is wealthy beyond his imagination.
The story is threaded through with Dickens references. Luke and his friends grew up together in a den of child thieves run by an old rascal named, you guessed it, Feagan. As much as I thought all those references would be groan-worthy, they weren't. I quickly got used to it, especially because it wasn't something Heath was just inspired by, she meant all the references to be obvious and recognizable.
There are twists and turns to the story. It's got a lot of very dark undertones. There's back story of murder, rape, domestic violence, and overly harsh punishment for children. We aren't treated to any of that in a graphic way, but we do experience the aftermath with the characters and it's very movingly rendered.
I feel like I'm giving a lot of five-star reviews lately and gushing more than usual, but I've been picking books by authors I haven't read based on their good reviews. So, it wasn't a surprise that I liked this book. What was a surprise was how much I loved it.
Several of my friends have said it's in their TBR and I hope you all go for it.
Very glad I gave Lorraine Heath a try. I enjoyed her writing very much and found tears in my eyes on reading the final words. Definitely on my keeper shelf. :D
I was considering ending the review there, but I can't. I have to jabber a bit. What a great reading experience this book was. Very moving, but also amusing. Held my interest the entire time.
*sigh*
It's the story of Luke, the Earl of Claybourne, and Catherine, daughter of the Duke of Greystone. Luke was a poor kid on the streets from the age of around six until about twelve when he killed the heir to the Earl of Claybourne. When the old earl, the victim's father, met with Luke in prison, he recognized him as his grandson. Luke said 'yup, yup, yup' to all the old man's questions and was soon spirited home to a grand title and inheritance, a bounty he definitely doesn't think he deserves. He knows he lied to the old man in order to escape hanging. No matter how badly the man he killed deserved death, the law wasn't on Luke's side and Luke's darn sure he isn't an earl.
But whether he believes it or not, our hero has inherited the earldom, is known as 'the devil earl', co-owns a gambling establishment with his best friend from his street days, Jack Dodger, and is wealthy beyond his imagination.
The story is threaded through with Dickens references. Luke and his friends grew up together in a den of child thieves run by an old rascal named, you guessed it, Feagan. As much as I thought all those references would be groan-worthy, they weren't. I quickly got used to it, especially because it wasn't something Heath was just inspired by, she meant all the references to be obvious and recognizable.
There are twists and turns to the story. It's got a lot of very dark undertones. There's back story of murder, rape, domestic violence, and overly harsh punishment for children. We aren't treated to any of that in a graphic way, but we do experience the aftermath with the characters and it's very movingly rendered.
I feel like I'm giving a lot of five-star reviews lately and gushing more than usual, but I've been picking books by authors I haven't read based on their good reviews. So, it wasn't a surprise that I liked this book. What was a surprise was how much I loved it.
Several of my friends have said it's in their TBR and I hope you all go for it.
Very glad I gave Lorraine Heath a try. I enjoyed her writing very much and found tears in my eyes on reading the final words. Definitely on my keeper shelf. :D
March 12, 2018
***5 Porque un Diablo siempre es Mejor STARS ***
Sonrisota tonta en la boca y corazones flotando a mi alrededor así estoy justo al finalizar este libro 😊😄💕❤😍😄💖💜❤💘💟
Me siento afortunada de ser una novata en romance histórico porque todavía me quedan muuuuchas historias buenas como ésta. Thanks God!!🙌
Lorraine Heath me dejó muy buen sabor de boca con Rendida a la Tentación la historia de Rafe que fue un libro maravilloso. Este libro me gustó tanto como el de Rafe, es de esas historias que te atrapa en cuanto empiezas.
No sé si les ha pasado que cuando una historia es tan genialosa, que te quedas en el limbo, bloqueada y no te salen las palabras para expresarte?, así mismito estoy.
ME ENCANTÓ y tengo miedo que me suceda como con Seductora Inocencia de Gaelen Foley que me gustó tanto que los dos siguiente que leí de la serie no los pude disfrutar igual porque sentí que no le llegaban.
Lucian Langdon “El Conde Diablo” como es conocido por su mala reputación ya que siendo un niño creció en las calles robando y luego acusado de asesinato es rescatado de la horca por un hombre que dice ser su abuelo y el padre del hombre al que asesinó así es como se convierte en un Lord y más tarde en un Conde. Aunque él cree que está usurpando un lugar que no le corresponde y engaño al viejo Conde.
Y por otro lado tenemos a Catherine Mobrey hija de un Duque que quiere hacer un trato con el Diablo por tal de proteger a quien tanto quiere.
Lucian/Luke es enigmático, oscuro, un sinvergüenza pero a la vez tiene ese porte que caracteriza a la aristocracia inglesa, como personaje me encantó, me enamoró, es de esos hombres que se creen indignos de amor como me gustan pero que siempre dan todo por las personas que quieren y en este caso su amiga de la infancia Frannie a la que dice amar y con la que quiere casarse.
Catherine como protagonista es maravillosa, tiene un carácter para nada a la época en la que vive, es por eso que ella piensa que nunca se va a casar, es independiente, valiente, protectora y con una gran entereza.
La relación de Luke y Catherine fue lo que más me gustó de todo fue pausada, con una gran atracción y tensión sexual, me encantaba como ello lo sacaba de quicio y a la vez sacaba lo mejor de él como fue derribando sus barreras , son una pareja entrañable y los sexy time me gustaron mucho.
Me gustó mucho leer sobre el bajo y oscuro mundo de Londres, sobre el suspenso de la trama, el maltrato intrafamiliar que era muy común y nada penalizado y que rara vez en leído en este tipo de historias.
Ya sé que sigue la historia de Jack y espero que se me quite lo encorajinada que ando con él y no por lo que hizo de niño sino porque hacer sufrir a Luke durante tanto tiempo no diciéndole la verdad.
Sonrisota tonta en la boca y corazones flotando a mi alrededor así estoy justo al finalizar este libro 😊😄💕❤😍😄💖💜❤💘💟
Me siento afortunada de ser una novata en romance histórico porque todavía me quedan muuuuchas historias buenas como ésta. Thanks God!!🙌
Lorraine Heath me dejó muy buen sabor de boca con Rendida a la Tentación la historia de Rafe que fue un libro maravilloso. Este libro me gustó tanto como el de Rafe, es de esas historias que te atrapa en cuanto empiezas.
No sé si les ha pasado que cuando una historia es tan genialosa, que te quedas en el limbo, bloqueada y no te salen las palabras para expresarte?, así mismito estoy.
ME ENCANTÓ y tengo miedo que me suceda como con Seductora Inocencia de Gaelen Foley que me gustó tanto que los dos siguiente que leí de la serie no los pude disfrutar igual porque sentí que no le llegaban.
Lucian Langdon “El Conde Diablo” como es conocido por su mala reputación ya que siendo un niño creció en las calles robando y luego acusado de asesinato es rescatado de la horca por un hombre que dice ser su abuelo y el padre del hombre al que asesinó así es como se convierte en un Lord y más tarde en un Conde. Aunque él cree que está usurpando un lugar que no le corresponde y engaño al viejo Conde.
Y por otro lado tenemos a Catherine Mobrey hija de un Duque que quiere hacer un trato con el Diablo por tal de proteger a quien tanto quiere.
"—Eres la persona más digna que conozco. En ti hay una parte de diablo y una parte de santo, pero eres todo lo que podría desear en un hombre, en un marido. La respuesta es sí, con mucho gusto."
Lucian/Luke es enigmático, oscuro, un sinvergüenza pero a la vez tiene ese porte que caracteriza a la aristocracia inglesa, como personaje me encantó, me enamoró, es de esos hombres que se creen indignos de amor
"—Te quiero, Catherine Langdon, condesa de Claybourne. Con todo mi corazón y con lo que queda de mi alma"
Catherine como protagonista es maravillosa, tiene un carácter para nada a la época en la que vive, es por eso que ella piensa que nunca se va a casar, es independiente, valiente, protectora y con una gran entereza.
La relación de Luke y Catherine fue lo que más me gustó de todo fue pausada, con una gran atracción y tensión sexual, me encantaba como ello lo sacaba de quicio y a la vez sacaba lo mejor de él como fue derribando sus barreras , son una pareja entrañable y los sexy time me gustaron mucho.
Me gustó mucho leer sobre el bajo y oscuro mundo de Londres, sobre el suspenso de la trama, el maltrato intrafamiliar que era muy común y nada penalizado y que rara vez en leído en este tipo de historias.
Ya sé que sigue la historia de Jack y espero que se me quite lo encorajinada que ando con él y no por lo que hizo de niño sino porque hacer sufrir a Luke durante tanto tiempo no diciéndole la verdad.
June 3, 2018
4,5. A pesar de los muchos libros de romántica que llevo a mis espaldas, es el primer libro que leo de Lorraine Heath y ya puedo decir que no será el último. Me ha gustado mucho su forma de narrar una historia ambienta en el Londres victoriano menos glamouroso, así como sus continuos guiños a Oliver Twist, libro del que los huérfanos de Feagan son grandes deudores. También los temas que trata, desde las desigualdades sociales -tremendamente injustas en esa época- hasta la violencia de género. Y ¿qué decir de sus personajes principales? Ni él es el típico aristócrata ni ella la típica lady y juntos forman una magnífica pareja, potenciando sus mejores cualidades. Una pena ese final tan precipitado para una historia a la que de otro modo hubiera dado 5 estrellas.
March 6, 2018
5 millones de Luke stars.
Vamos a ver es que no sé ni si pararme a hablar un poco del argumento del libro porque es que es tan absolutamente genia, y tanto de lo que necesitaba, que no puedo con la emoción. Y con el enfado, por no haberlo leído y conocido antes. Y lo dice una que no se acercaba ni con un palo de tres metros a cualquier libro de histórica...
Pero haré un esfuerzo y os contaré un poco del libro:
Tenemos al pequeño Luke, en un prólogo sobre su infancia. Nos cuenta que no recuerda nada a parte de vivir en una casa con otros niños, niños que han sido entrenados para ser carteristas. Luke tiene otros amiguitos como él: Jack, Franie, Bill... pero Franie, aquella pequeña niña ha sufrido algo horrible y nuestro querido Luke va a hacer pagar al malnacido que le hizo daño a su amiga. Es así como Luke acaba en la comisaría (que ahora mismo no sé si en esa época ya le llamaban así... pero vosotros me entendéis) cara a cara con el padre del hombre al que acababa de matar. Luke está esperando ser colgado en la horca pero lo que acaba recibiendo es el amor de un abuelo que no recuerda haber tenido.
El primer capítulo sucede años después de este prólogo. Luke ya es un hombre y ha dejado muy atrás el ser un niño carterista. En realidad todos lo han dejado. Su abuelo ha muerto y ahora Luke es un conde (creo que era conde, o duque jaja mi memoria es horrible, solo me quedo con los detalles minimos e importantes jajaj). Lo único que quiere en esta vida es casarse con Franie... eso es hasta que ella lo rechaza porque no cree ser capaz de ser la mujer adecuada para un hombre de la nobleza.
Es aquí cuando conocemos a Catherine, una dama de alta cuna con un hermano de viaje por el mundo, y un padre postrado en una cama. Su único consuelo es su amiga Winnie, solo que la vida de ella ya es bastante complicada... Catherine necesita ayudarla por lo que busca a Luke en busca de un trato. Pero el trato no sale tan bien como pensaban, Catherine se arrepiente de lo que le ha pedido y Luke ya no quiere lo mismo que antes. Las metas finales habían cambiado por el camino...
ME MUEROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO POR LUKE. En serio, me putamente encantan los gruñones, ceñudos y cuanto más difíciles mejor. Cuanto más se oponen a enamorarse y más fácil caen MEJOR! AWWWWW juro por dios que este libro fue lo que me recetó el médico después de lo poco entusiasta que me estaba poniendo en mis lecturas. Me encantó de principio a fin. Es que no tengo ni una sola queja, NI UNA. Me mantuvo atrapada y lo que más, obviamente, fue la tensión entre los protagonistas.
Sí que es verdad que me dolió en el alma lo de Jack... para mi fue una puñalada y ya se que él no lo sabía, pero yo no sé si sería capaz de perdonarle...
En cuanto a Franie, para mi es un personaje tan... meh. No sé es tan buena y modosita y todo que no me ha acabado de gustar. Demasiado tranquila para mi gusto. Me gustan más con el caracter luchador como Catherine.
RECOMIENDO TANTO TANTO ESTE LIBRO. Como algo así necesario para vivir.
Vamos a ver es que no sé ni si pararme a hablar un poco del argumento del libro porque es que es tan absolutamente genia, y tanto de lo que necesitaba, que no puedo con la emoción. Y con el enfado, por no haberlo leído y conocido antes. Y lo dice una que no se acercaba ni con un palo de tres metros a cualquier libro de histórica...
Pero haré un esfuerzo y os contaré un poco del libro:
Tenemos al pequeño Luke, en un prólogo sobre su infancia. Nos cuenta que no recuerda nada a parte de vivir en una casa con otros niños, niños que han sido entrenados para ser carteristas. Luke tiene otros amiguitos como él: Jack, Franie, Bill... pero Franie, aquella pequeña niña ha sufrido algo horrible y nuestro querido Luke va a hacer pagar al malnacido que le hizo daño a su amiga. Es así como Luke acaba en la comisaría (que ahora mismo no sé si en esa época ya le llamaban así... pero vosotros me entendéis) cara a cara con el padre del hombre al que acababa de matar. Luke está esperando ser colgado en la horca pero lo que acaba recibiendo es el amor de un abuelo que no recuerda haber tenido.
El primer capítulo sucede años después de este prólogo. Luke ya es un hombre y ha dejado muy atrás el ser un niño carterista. En realidad todos lo han dejado. Su abuelo ha muerto y ahora Luke es un conde (creo que era conde, o duque jaja mi memoria es horrible, solo me quedo con los detalles minimos e importantes jajaj). Lo único que quiere en esta vida es casarse con Franie... eso es hasta que ella lo rechaza porque no cree ser capaz de ser la mujer adecuada para un hombre de la nobleza.
Es aquí cuando conocemos a Catherine, una dama de alta cuna con un hermano de viaje por el mundo, y un padre postrado en una cama. Su único consuelo es su amiga Winnie, solo que la vida de ella ya es bastante complicada... Catherine necesita ayudarla por lo que busca a Luke en busca de un trato. Pero el trato no sale tan bien como pensaban, Catherine se arrepiente de lo que le ha pedido y Luke ya no quiere lo mismo que antes. Las metas finales habían cambiado por el camino...
ME MUEROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO POR LUKE. En serio, me putamente encantan los gruñones, ceñudos y cuanto más difíciles mejor. Cuanto más se oponen a enamorarse y más fácil caen MEJOR! AWWWWW juro por dios que este libro fue lo que me recetó el médico después de lo poco entusiasta que me estaba poniendo en mis lecturas. Me encantó de principio a fin. Es que no tengo ni una sola queja, NI UNA. Me mantuvo atrapada y lo que más, obviamente, fue la tensión entre los protagonistas.
Sí que es verdad que me dolió en el alma lo de Jack... para mi fue una puñalada y ya se que él no lo sabía, pero yo no sé si sería capaz de perdonarle...
En cuanto a Franie, para mi es un personaje tan... meh. No sé es tan buena y modosita y todo que no me ha acabado de gustar. Demasiado tranquila para mi gusto. Me gustan más con el caracter luchador como Catherine.
RECOMIENDO TANTO TANTO ESTE LIBRO. Como algo así necesario para vivir.
August 6, 2023
Catherine Mabry is desperate, after finding out that her closest friend is being abused, she is at her wits end. Her friend has no choice but to bear the abuse and put a smile on her face, but Catherine has different ideas about getting rid of this tormentor. She goes to the "Devil Earl" Lucian Langdon who is rumored to have killed, so she knows that he is the perfect person on the job. However when she sneaks into his residence but after sharing a sensual embrace, things start to heat up between the two. Lucian is curious by this woman's proposition which has nothing to do with satin sheets and heated nights of passion, but to kill someone, whom he has no idea who this man is or what he has done to deserve such a thing. However he makes a deal with her, one that she won't be able to refuse. Lucian desires the one woman he has loved all of his life to be his wife, but he needs someone to teach her to be a Earls wife and to be accepted into society, and Catherine is the perfect tutor for the job. But as things progress, dark secrets will come to life as well as a deep desire that both these two will discover, one where will help them down the precarious road of love and need.
I have just loved this series, its a favorite of mine by Lorraine Heath. In Bed With The Devil is the first installment of the Scoundrels Of St James series. We have Lucian who was found at a young boy by a man called Feagen and showed him the ropes of the streets which included pick pocketing and stealing. However his grandfather found him and he learned how to become the Earl which is his heritage as well. However he has never had much interest in Society then he meets the beautiful creature Catherine who comes to him with a dangerous proposition. But what he learns is that he is falling in love with a woman he has only known a short time, alot more than the one woman he has vowed to marry. This love story is definitely filled with mystery and conflict and a heated passion that we see grows between these two characters. The interaction between these two are very amusing at time, but connect for the reader. In Bed with the Devil is a engaging read that will swirl you among a deep mystery of secrets, witty interaction, and a love story that will tie up knots in you and leaving you purely satisfied. Lorraine Heath surely delivers!!!
I have just loved this series, its a favorite of mine by Lorraine Heath. In Bed With The Devil is the first installment of the Scoundrels Of St James series. We have Lucian who was found at a young boy by a man called Feagen and showed him the ropes of the streets which included pick pocketing and stealing. However his grandfather found him and he learned how to become the Earl which is his heritage as well. However he has never had much interest in Society then he meets the beautiful creature Catherine who comes to him with a dangerous proposition. But what he learns is that he is falling in love with a woman he has only known a short time, alot more than the one woman he has vowed to marry. This love story is definitely filled with mystery and conflict and a heated passion that we see grows between these two characters. The interaction between these two are very amusing at time, but connect for the reader. In Bed with the Devil is a engaging read that will swirl you among a deep mystery of secrets, witty interaction, and a love story that will tie up knots in you and leaving you purely satisfied. Lorraine Heath surely delivers!!!
September 12, 2016
Este mes sale la tercera entrega de esta saga (por fin!) y me apetecía ponerme en situación y volver a disfrutar de esta maravillosa novela.
Un protagonista masculino que enamora hasta lo más profundo, una protagonista femenina con la que es muy fácil solidarizarse y un argumento muy bien hilado de principio a fin. Los secundarios, bien definidos, encarnan dos de los temas secundarios de la novela, como debe ser. Uno es la fuerza de la amistad verdadera. Cualquier acto es válido para ayudar a un amigo, incluso si ese acto está fuera de la ley o de los principios morales. El otro, la confusión entre amor y amistad, casarse con una amiga (o amigo) porque sientes un gran afecto por ella (o él) y parece lo lógico, lo mejor, lo perfecto. Un error común de todos los tiempos que el protagonista estará a punto de cometer. El tema principal: la violencia de género. Está tratado con un perfecto equilibrio entre la crudeza y la delicadeza, demostrando así que no son necesarios largos párrafos descriptivos de esos ataques de agresividad (que lamentablemente siguen produciéndose hoy en día) para crear determinadas emociones en el lector. La autora tampoco se extiende en la crudeza que sufrían los huérfanos de esa época que acaban viviendo del robo y del timo, pero cuenta lo justo para conmovernos y para que conozcamos esas condiciones de vida que, si las describiera, convertirían la novela en un auténtico drama.
La historia de amor entre los protagonistas avanza sin prisas pero sin pausa y ambos se conducen con una coherencia acorde a sus personalidades y al desarrollo de la trama, sencilla en apariencia pero con unos giros que nos mantienen en vilo hasta la última página. Los guiños a "Oliver Twist" de Dickens me han parecido el broche de oro para esta historia. La recomiendo encarecidamente a las lectoras del romántica, aunque la histórica no sea su subgénero favorito.
Un protagonista masculino que enamora hasta lo más profundo, una protagonista femenina con la que es muy fácil solidarizarse y un argumento muy bien hilado de principio a fin. Los secundarios, bien definidos, encarnan dos de los temas secundarios de la novela, como debe ser. Uno es la fuerza de la amistad verdadera. Cualquier acto es válido para ayudar a un amigo, incluso si ese acto está fuera de la ley o de los principios morales. El otro, la confusión entre amor y amistad, casarse con una amiga (o amigo) porque sientes un gran afecto por ella (o él) y parece lo lógico, lo mejor, lo perfecto. Un error común de todos los tiempos que el protagonista estará a punto de cometer. El tema principal: la violencia de género. Está tratado con un perfecto equilibrio entre la crudeza y la delicadeza, demostrando así que no son necesarios largos párrafos descriptivos de esos ataques de agresividad (que lamentablemente siguen produciéndose hoy en día) para crear determinadas emociones en el lector. La autora tampoco se extiende en la crudeza que sufrían los huérfanos de esa época que acaban viviendo del robo y del timo, pero cuenta lo justo para conmovernos y para que conozcamos esas condiciones de vida que, si las describiera, convertirían la novela en un auténtico drama.
La historia de amor entre los protagonistas avanza sin prisas pero sin pausa y ambos se conducen con una coherencia acorde a sus personalidades y al desarrollo de la trama, sencilla en apariencia pero con unos giros que nos mantienen en vilo hasta la última página. Los guiños a "Oliver Twist" de Dickens me han parecido el broche de oro para esta historia. La recomiendo encarecidamente a las lectoras del romántica, aunque la histórica no sea su subgénero favorito.
January 4, 2022
4.5 stars!
“She was the one he looked forward to talking to each evening. She was the one whose smile made his heart beat a little faster. She was the one he wanted to explore—not only every curve of her body but every facet of her mind. She fascinated, tempted, and beguiled him as he’d never before been fascinated, tempted, or beguiled. He told himself it was because she was new while Frannie was familiar—yet Catherine didn’t feel new. She never had. From the first moment he’d spotted her at that ball all those years ago, when he’d gazed into her eyes, he’d thought that if he still possessed all his soul it would have found its mate in hers.” Lady Catherine Mabry believes that the Devil Earl, Lucian Langdon, is the solution to her problem. Lucian is an accused murderer and if he had killed before, would it be so hard to kill one more? Although he first denied her request, Lucian later on came up with a proposition that would benefit the both of them: Catherine would teach the wife of his choosing proper aristocratic etiquette and in exchange, he would kill the man she so desperately wanted to be dead. It sounds just like the perfect plan, but when feelings get involved and the truth of his past starts to haunt him, Lucian might just rethink everything that he knows to be true about his life - including who he really wants as his wife.
In bed with the Devil is the first book from Lorraine Heath’s historical romance series, Scoundrel of St. James. This is about Lucian Langdon, Earl of Claybourne, and Lady Catherine Mabry. This is Heath’s most popular book on GoodReads and I can see why. What a good read to start the year with! I can see myself reading more from the series. I just hope they’re as good as this one.
Meet Lady Catherine Mabry: She is the daughter of the Duke of Greystone. She is Sterling’s sister, which I believe is the hero of book 3 from the same series. In Lucian’s words, “She was bold, courageous, kind, caring…” but she is also “too opinionated, willful, argumentative.” And I can confirm she is all that! She could come off as a bit of a ninny (e.g. going to a gentleman’s home late in the night). She loves the people in her life very dearly, including her best friend,
Winnie, and she is willing to do anything to ensure that her friend would live a peaceful life. Which leads her path to Claybourne.
Meet Lucian Langdon: He is a disreputable man. Although he is an Earl, his claim to the title is questioned by the Ton. They consider him a shame to the aristocracy. No respectable woman would want to be seen consorting with him, and no gentleman would want to be known as his friend. Which works just fine as he does not want anything to do with them either. He was accused of murdering his uncle, and before he could be killed for the crime, an old gentleman recognized him as his grandson, heir to an earldom. After that, nothing in his life would ever be the same.
Lady Catherine Mabry has been drawn to Lucian Langdon ever since she saw him at the ball five years ago. The earl made an appearance but danced with no one. However, his gaze had settled on Catherine longer than was proper. And Catherine did not look away or flinched. After that, he left the ballroom. And to her shame, it irritated Catherine. The earl intrigued her. He was an enigma, and in her deepest darkest desire, she dreamt of him dancing with her. Many years had passed since the event and Catherine is still drawn to him, but she sought him out for another reason: All of London knew that he was a killer, and she had a plan that included him. To ensure her beloved friend’s safety, the best plan she could think of is to get rid of her friend's husband, a Duke. She believes the only person that can do her bidding is the devil earl. After all, he had done it before, for sure, he can do it again. However, Lucian rebuffed her offer for he has no need of her money. But She does have something that he needs - Catherine can teach Frannie how to be a proper Lady of Society and in exchange, he will do her bidding once her part of the deal is finished. Clandestine meetings, pretending they don’t know each other in daylight, longing, the truth of Lucian’s past, the truth of whom his heart belongs to…and finally we have a HEA!
I loved the heroine! I liked how she was intrigued by Lucian from the very beginning. She is aware of his reputation: how he was capable of murder and killed his own uncle. But of course, that wasn’t the full story. I find it cute how after the ball, she has invitations hand-delivered to him, hoping he’d appear at one of her balls and dinners. Aside from that, she was a caring friend and loving daughter. I loved how determined she was to help Winnie out of her situation. Yes, she does seem very foolish, risking her reputation and going to an Earl who’s a rumored murderer to help with her situation, but she is doing it out of thinking it was the only way to save her friend. I agree that she was a bit inconsiderate with her approach to Lucian, it is offensive to ask him to kill someone, but then again, she was not aware of the reasons he murdered someone before. I loved how she was sensible, independent (not in an annoying way), and was in touch with her emotions. She did not try to fight whatever she was feeling for Lucian. So often we see characters who do not try to fight how they feel, it is refreshing to see a heroine who’s not constantly pushing away the hero in fear of getting hurt. And she is aware that Lucian might hurt her, but she does not hold it against him because she knows it is not his intention to make her fall in love and he was not aware of her affection towards him. When she realized she loved him, she was not bitter about it, she wanted the best for him even if that meant that Frannie would be the person beside him instead of her. Although she does something stupid towards the end! It is like all the sensibility went out of her person and decided for her…but then again it is what she believed was best for Lucian and she loved him dearly. She was not a martyr, she was simply one who loved people dearly and was willing to do anything to protect those people she loved.
I loved the hero equally! I liked his back story, although it was tragic. He was not sure of his place in the world. He felt like a scoundrel masquerading as a gentleman. He murdered someone, and with very good reasons too. He was someone devoted to his friend. He was in many ways just like Catherine. He was caring, loving and willing to do anything to protect the people he loved. He thinks that he is not the real Claybourne and he admitted, even to Catherine, that he was a thief and that when he saw the opportunity to live a better life, he took it. I can’t even fault him for that. One’s gotta do what they have to do to have a good life and to get out of death’s way. I felt very sad for him because he killed a man (although well-deserved) . It haunted him and he never felt like the same man since then, like a piece of his soul was missing. Of course, no matter one’s intentions, one would carry the guilt of killing someone. But I know that he would do it again if it meant protecting the people dear to him. I think he is very much like the, “Do you think you’ll kill for me one day?”(cue the Lana lyrics) “Yes, of course, I will, my darling.” This is not to romanticize murder! It is wrong! But we can all agree that the man he killed deserved it. I generally hate when either of the main characters are in love with other people, but in this book, it did not bother me very much. Firstly, because I knew that Frannie married Sterling and she has her own book. Secondly, it is obvious that the love he feels for Frannie is the love one would feel for a friend: purely platonic. But of course, he would not be able to tell as it is obvious Frannie was the only woman he cared about until Catherine showed up in his life. And lastly, I loved the added angst. Although I must admit that I was annoyed that it took him too long to realize that it was Catherine he loved, not Frannie. But other than that, he was a good hero who cared for the heroine as much as she cared for him.
I really really enjoyed the whole book. I devoured it. I read it in one sitting! It was exactly the type of book I needed to read. If I listened to the negative reviews, I never would’ve read it but I am glad I did not because I ended up loving it so much. The heroine and hero are just the type of characters I love when reading a book. They’re likable in their own ways and although frustrating at times, they never bored me. I loved how they pretended not to know each other in that one scene…I was screaming! And of course, that part where he danced with her in a ballroom even if it was costing him his pride. So good!
I really love Lorraine Heath’s books. They are always dependable reads. I just know that when I read her, the book won’t be rated less than 3 stars. She writes such good romance books. I’ve been in a Lorraine Heath mood lately and I am enjoying it very much. I have to stop though cause I don’t want to run out of good HR books. What I just don’t like about her books is that sometimes the way things are resolved are very rushed? It has been like that for almost all books I’ve read from her. It is the reason why I have not rated her books 5 stars, so far. I wish the events leading up to the ending would stop being so rushed. I loved the epilogue of this though! I like how the prologue and epilogue are from Lucian’s journal entries. Overall, this was a really enjoyable book. I really loved the main characters, even the side characters (who are all main characters in their own book). The right amount of angst and a delicious romance between the main characters and I’m sold!
Some quotes:
“And then I spied her. Her. Lovely, elegant, and daring, she not only met my gaze, but she held it as though she was as fascinated with me as I was with her. For the briefest of moments, I contemplated asking her for the honor of a dance, but I knew such an action would tarnish her reputation. That night, for the first time in my life, I understood the sacrifices that were required to truly be a gentleman. With regret, I turned away, the wonder of her in my arms to remain a mystery that would often haunt me.”
“Where do you find your faith in me, Catherine?” “From coming to know you.” She stayed with him, just as she’d promised. In his bed. Doing nothing more than holding him, allowing him to hold her. Something more than friendship, something less than lovers. But it was comforting.
“Never in his life had he ever known such peace, such joy. He’d thought once more with her would be enough. But as he held her, and listened to her breathing, he feared he might never have enough of her.”
“She knew the very worst about him, and yet still she came to him. Knew the very worst about him, yet still she welcomed him. No hesitation, no turning him aside because she feared his world or worried that she wasn’t good enough.”
“Of course I care. To a certain extent we all care, but we can’t care to the point that we live in fear of others’ opinions, that we allow them to change who we are. We must be willing to stand up and defend what represents the very core of our being. Otherwise what is the purpose of individuality? We’d be nothing but imitations of each other, and I daresay we’d all be rather boring.”
“She was the one he looked forward to talking to each evening. She was the one whose smile made his heart beat a little faster. She was the one he wanted to explore—not only every curve of her body but every facet of her mind. She fascinated, tempted, and beguiled him as he’d never before been fascinated, tempted, or beguiled. He told himself it was because she was new while Frannie was familiar—yet Catherine didn’t feel new. She never had. From the first moment he’d spotted her at that ball all those years ago, when he’d gazed into her eyes, he’d thought that if he still possessed all his soul it would have found its mate in hers.” Lady Catherine Mabry believes that the Devil Earl, Lucian Langdon, is the solution to her problem. Lucian is an accused murderer and if he had killed before, would it be so hard to kill one more? Although he first denied her request, Lucian later on came up with a proposition that would benefit the both of them: Catherine would teach the wife of his choosing proper aristocratic etiquette and in exchange, he would kill the man she so desperately wanted to be dead. It sounds just like the perfect plan, but when feelings get involved and the truth of his past starts to haunt him, Lucian might just rethink everything that he knows to be true about his life - including who he really wants as his wife.
In bed with the Devil is the first book from Lorraine Heath’s historical romance series, Scoundrel of St. James. This is about Lucian Langdon, Earl of Claybourne, and Lady Catherine Mabry. This is Heath’s most popular book on GoodReads and I can see why. What a good read to start the year with! I can see myself reading more from the series. I just hope they’re as good as this one.
Meet Lady Catherine Mabry: She is the daughter of the Duke of Greystone. She is Sterling’s sister, which I believe is the hero of book 3 from the same series. In Lucian’s words, “She was bold, courageous, kind, caring…” but she is also “too opinionated, willful, argumentative.” And I can confirm she is all that! She could come off as a bit of a ninny (e.g. going to a gentleman’s home late in the night). She loves the people in her life very dearly, including her best friend,
Winnie, and she is willing to do anything to ensure that her friend would live a peaceful life. Which leads her path to Claybourne.
Meet Lucian Langdon: He is a disreputable man. Although he is an Earl, his claim to the title is questioned by the Ton. They consider him a shame to the aristocracy. No respectable woman would want to be seen consorting with him, and no gentleman would want to be known as his friend. Which works just fine as he does not want anything to do with them either. He was accused of murdering his uncle, and before he could be killed for the crime, an old gentleman recognized him as his grandson, heir to an earldom. After that, nothing in his life would ever be the same.
Lady Catherine Mabry has been drawn to Lucian Langdon ever since she saw him at the ball five years ago. The earl made an appearance but danced with no one. However, his gaze had settled on Catherine longer than was proper. And Catherine did not look away or flinched. After that, he left the ballroom. And to her shame, it irritated Catherine. The earl intrigued her. He was an enigma, and in her deepest darkest desire, she dreamt of him dancing with her. Many years had passed since the event and Catherine is still drawn to him, but she sought him out for another reason: All of London knew that he was a killer, and she had a plan that included him. To ensure her beloved friend’s safety, the best plan she could think of is to get rid of her friend's husband, a Duke. She believes the only person that can do her bidding is the devil earl. After all, he had done it before, for sure, he can do it again. However, Lucian rebuffed her offer for he has no need of her money. But She does have something that he needs - Catherine can teach Frannie how to be a proper Lady of Society and in exchange, he will do her bidding once her part of the deal is finished. Clandestine meetings, pretending they don’t know each other in daylight, longing, the truth of Lucian’s past, the truth of whom his heart belongs to…and finally we have a HEA!
I loved the heroine! I liked how she was intrigued by Lucian from the very beginning. She is aware of his reputation: how he was capable of murder and killed his own uncle. But of course, that wasn’t the full story. I find it cute how after the ball, she has invitations hand-delivered to him, hoping he’d appear at one of her balls and dinners. Aside from that, she was a caring friend and loving daughter. I loved how determined she was to help Winnie out of her situation. Yes, she does seem very foolish, risking her reputation and going to an Earl who’s a rumored murderer to help with her situation, but she is doing it out of thinking it was the only way to save her friend. I agree that she was a bit inconsiderate with her approach to Lucian, it is offensive to ask him to kill someone, but then again, she was not aware of the reasons he murdered someone before. I loved how she was sensible, independent (not in an annoying way), and was in touch with her emotions. She did not try to fight whatever she was feeling for Lucian. So often we see characters who do not try to fight how they feel, it is refreshing to see a heroine who’s not constantly pushing away the hero in fear of getting hurt. And she is aware that Lucian might hurt her, but she does not hold it against him because she knows it is not his intention to make her fall in love and he was not aware of her affection towards him. When she realized she loved him, she was not bitter about it, she wanted the best for him even if that meant that Frannie would be the person beside him instead of her. Although she does something stupid towards the end! It is like all the sensibility went out of her person and decided for her…but then again it is what she believed was best for Lucian and she loved him dearly. She was not a martyr, she was simply one who loved people dearly and was willing to do anything to protect those people she loved.
I loved the hero equally! I liked his back story, although it was tragic. He was not sure of his place in the world. He felt like a scoundrel masquerading as a gentleman. He murdered someone, and with very good reasons too. He was someone devoted to his friend. He was in many ways just like Catherine. He was caring, loving and willing to do anything to protect the people he loved. He thinks that he is not the real Claybourne and he admitted, even to Catherine, that he was a thief and that when he saw the opportunity to live a better life, he took it. I can’t even fault him for that. One’s gotta do what they have to do to have a good life and to get out of death’s way. I felt very sad for him because he killed a man (although well-deserved) . It haunted him and he never felt like the same man since then, like a piece of his soul was missing. Of course, no matter one’s intentions, one would carry the guilt of killing someone. But I know that he would do it again if it meant protecting the people dear to him. I think he is very much like the, “Do you think you’ll kill for me one day?”(cue the Lana lyrics) “Yes, of course, I will, my darling.” This is not to romanticize murder! It is wrong! But we can all agree that the man he killed deserved it. I generally hate when either of the main characters are in love with other people, but in this book, it did not bother me very much. Firstly, because I knew that Frannie married Sterling and she has her own book. Secondly, it is obvious that the love he feels for Frannie is the love one would feel for a friend: purely platonic. But of course, he would not be able to tell as it is obvious Frannie was the only woman he cared about until Catherine showed up in his life. And lastly, I loved the added angst. Although I must admit that I was annoyed that it took him too long to realize that it was Catherine he loved, not Frannie. But other than that, he was a good hero who cared for the heroine as much as she cared for him.
I really really enjoyed the whole book. I devoured it. I read it in one sitting! It was exactly the type of book I needed to read. If I listened to the negative reviews, I never would’ve read it but I am glad I did not because I ended up loving it so much. The heroine and hero are just the type of characters I love when reading a book. They’re likable in their own ways and although frustrating at times, they never bored me. I loved how they pretended not to know each other in that one scene…I was screaming! And of course, that part where he danced with her in a ballroom even if it was costing him his pride. So good!
I really love Lorraine Heath’s books. They are always dependable reads. I just know that when I read her, the book won’t be rated less than 3 stars. She writes such good romance books. I’ve been in a Lorraine Heath mood lately and I am enjoying it very much. I have to stop though cause I don’t want to run out of good HR books. What I just don’t like about her books is that sometimes the way things are resolved are very rushed? It has been like that for almost all books I’ve read from her. It is the reason why I have not rated her books 5 stars, so far. I wish the events leading up to the ending would stop being so rushed. I loved the epilogue of this though! I like how the prologue and epilogue are from Lucian’s journal entries. Overall, this was a really enjoyable book. I really loved the main characters, even the side characters (who are all main characters in their own book). The right amount of angst and a delicious romance between the main characters and I’m sold!
Some quotes:
“And then I spied her. Her. Lovely, elegant, and daring, she not only met my gaze, but she held it as though she was as fascinated with me as I was with her. For the briefest of moments, I contemplated asking her for the honor of a dance, but I knew such an action would tarnish her reputation. That night, for the first time in my life, I understood the sacrifices that were required to truly be a gentleman. With regret, I turned away, the wonder of her in my arms to remain a mystery that would often haunt me.”
“Where do you find your faith in me, Catherine?” “From coming to know you.” She stayed with him, just as she’d promised. In his bed. Doing nothing more than holding him, allowing him to hold her. Something more than friendship, something less than lovers. But it was comforting.
“Never in his life had he ever known such peace, such joy. He’d thought once more with her would be enough. But as he held her, and listened to her breathing, he feared he might never have enough of her.”
“She knew the very worst about him, and yet still she came to him. Knew the very worst about him, yet still she welcomed him. No hesitation, no turning him aside because she feared his world or worried that she wasn’t good enough.”
“Of course I care. To a certain extent we all care, but we can’t care to the point that we live in fear of others’ opinions, that we allow them to change who we are. We must be willing to stand up and defend what represents the very core of our being. Otherwise what is the purpose of individuality? We’d be nothing but imitations of each other, and I daresay we’d all be rather boring.”
August 17, 2019
Audio: 2 STARS
Story: 4 STARS!
Plot:
I really loved the heroine, Catherine.
I recommend!
Story: 4 STARS!
"The price you pay for waltzing with the devil is residing in hell."Another winner by Lorraine Heath!
Plot:
She risked more than just her reputation with him; she risked her heart.Okay, yes, I'm oversimplifying things a bit. . . or a lot, because the plot was actually quite complex, but the quote above encapsulates the part of the story that I enjoyed the most.
I really loved the heroine, Catherine.
"I'm not very skilled at being biddable."And I really loved, Claybourne.
He liked the rooms in his house lit. He'd had too many nights in utter darkness.Together, they were a force to be reckoned with.
"No one has ever challenged me as you do, Catherine."The only reason I can't give it 5 stars is the aforementioned complex plot. It went a bit too far to be wholly believable for me. On the other hand, there wasn't a single dull moment.
"No one has ever intrigued me as you do, my lord."
I recommend!
February 29, 2016
I actually really enjoyed this book! It wasn't overly mushy with romance and the woman was assertive and headstrong which I love.
February 5, 2016
This was lovely. Everything I've come to expect from Lorraine Heath. It's always a pleasure to read one of her books. Catherine and Lucian seem to be complete opposites but find that they're really not. There is a little intrigue along with a slow burning romance. Lucian lost his memory when he was very young, and grew up on the streets, taken in along with a small group of homeless children, by a kindhearted street man. When Lucian kills a man who rapes his friend, it starts a random chain of events that leads to him being mistaken for a lost lordling. Needless to say, he doesn't feel at home either with high society or on the street, nor does he feel deserving of the refined Lady Catherine. But Catherine sees the goodness in him and is also intrigued by him. She begins their relationship by using his killer reputation to save a friend in need, but ends up falling for the gentle soul that she eventually uncovers.
Friendships are tested, the rest of the Scoundrels are introduced and already prove to be somewhat heroic. I'm so glad I've got a new Historical series to look forward to.
Friendships are tested, the rest of the Scoundrels are introduced and already prove to be somewhat heroic. I'm so glad I've got a new Historical series to look forward to.
October 7, 2021
4 STARS
As the introduction into a series, I really enjoyed this one. With our scoundrel falling into a rather Dickens-like childhood. He went from riches to rags then rags to riches. A strong heroine in this one, who I felt was really more the star of the book than Luke was. He was not as strong a male character as I would have liked. He did have quite a lot to over-come, but I didn't like his dependance on his childhood girlfriend. And then the way he just disregarded her when it was convenient for him.
All in all it was an enjoyable read. I am definitely looking forward to the rest of the series.
Have you ever wanted something so badly that you would do anything, believe anything in order to acquire it?
As the introduction into a series, I really enjoyed this one. With our scoundrel falling into a rather Dickens-like childhood. He went from riches to rags then rags to riches. A strong heroine in this one, who I felt was really more the star of the book than Luke was. He was not as strong a male character as I would have liked. He did have quite a lot to over-come, but I didn't like his dependance on his childhood girlfriend. And then the way he just disregarded her when it was convenient for him.
All in all it was an enjoyable read. I am definitely looking forward to the rest of the series.
December 16, 2014
Lo bueno de tener mala memoria es que relees libros y los disfrutas igual.
Quizás ahora le he encontrado un final demasiado precipitado y una protagonista demasiado "moderna". Pero igual que en el momento de mi primera lectura me ha parecido una novela fresca, tierna con un amor que va creciendo poco a poco (de los que yo disfruto).Solo por eso le vuelvo a dar 5 estrellas, que últimamente no hay muchas novelas de esas.
Unos protagonistas que me han gustado mucho con unos secundarios que se merecen su propia historia, Lucian es de esos protagonistas que directamente me conquistan y ella está siempre a la altura. Valiente y con arrojo.
Quizás ahora le he encontrado un final demasiado precipitado y una protagonista demasiado "moderna". Pero igual que en el momento de mi primera lectura me ha parecido una novela fresca, tierna con un amor que va creciendo poco a poco (de los que yo disfruto).Solo por eso le vuelvo a dar 5 estrellas, que últimamente no hay muchas novelas de esas.
Unos protagonistas que me han gustado mucho con unos secundarios que se merecen su propia historia, Lucian es de esos protagonistas que directamente me conquistan y ella está siempre a la altura. Valiente y con arrojo.
January 31, 2021
In Bed with the Devil was an enthralling read that captured my attention every step of the way. And it turns out, this wasn't actually my first Lorraine Heath book! It came as a pleasant surprise to find out that Heath also writes under the pen name Jade Parker who wrote one of my all time favorite YA pirate romances, To Catch a Pirate. Although, I read it as a teen, it's always stayed with me for some reason.
Anyway, back to the book... I found Catherine to be a very likeable heroine. She's intelligent, witty and quite daring at times. With her father bed-ridden and her brother globe-trotting, she's basically responsible for all the household affairs. Her devotion to her family and her protectiveness of her friend made me respect her a lot. And while she knows her role in the aristocracy, she isn't bound by it and is able to think for herself. Luke was a very likeable hero, too. He was a very well-written character with many layers. Underneath his rakish and devilish exterior, was a sensitive man with a bold and protective heart. Luke and Catherine were so perfect for each other. Both of them ultimately desire to do what's best for those around them, even though it might not always be what's morally right.
Heath did an amazing job at building the sexual tension between the hero and the heroine. I could feel the undeniable longing in all their stolen moments. While I often found myself impatient for them to finally get together, the anticipation made the slow-burn romance all the more rewarding. Even more so, I loved all the moments they were able to be vulnerable with each other. I was so immersed with this story, I actually had to refrain from reading this book in pubic because I knew I probably looked like a mad woman grinning like The Cheshire Cat.
The author has such a way with writing and bringing her characters to life, I felt like I had truly stepped into her world. Even though my attention was entirely focused on Luke and Catherine, I found myself wanting to know about the secondary characters too. Everyone had interesting back stories with motives and intentions. I'm glad the next book is starring Jack because he certainly possesses an air of mystery.
The last few chapters did feel a bit rushed and I don't feel like nitpicking this book. But the main reason I deducted half a star is a spoiler which I will discuss here: .
In Bed with the Devil was highly enjoyable for me. I can't sing enough praises. But be warned, it definitely deals with some dark themes . If you're looking for a passionate romance with a compelling plot and wonderfully crafted characters, I highly recommend this one. On with the series I go!
Rating: 4.5/5
Anyway, back to the book... I found Catherine to be a very likeable heroine. She's intelligent, witty and quite daring at times. With her father bed-ridden and her brother globe-trotting, she's basically responsible for all the household affairs. Her devotion to her family and her protectiveness of her friend made me respect her a lot. And while she knows her role in the aristocracy, she isn't bound by it and is able to think for herself. Luke was a very likeable hero, too. He was a very well-written character with many layers. Underneath his rakish and devilish exterior, was a sensitive man with a bold and protective heart. Luke and Catherine were so perfect for each other. Both of them ultimately desire to do what's best for those around them, even though it might not always be what's morally right.
Heath did an amazing job at building the sexual tension between the hero and the heroine. I could feel the undeniable longing in all their stolen moments. While I often found myself impatient for them to finally get together, the anticipation made the slow-burn romance all the more rewarding. Even more so, I loved all the moments they were able to be vulnerable with each other. I was so immersed with this story, I actually had to refrain from reading this book in pubic because I knew I probably looked like a mad woman grinning like The Cheshire Cat.
The author has such a way with writing and bringing her characters to life, I felt like I had truly stepped into her world. Even though my attention was entirely focused on Luke and Catherine, I found myself wanting to know about the secondary characters too. Everyone had interesting back stories with motives and intentions. I'm glad the next book is starring Jack because he certainly possesses an air of mystery.
The last few chapters did feel a bit rushed and I don't feel like nitpicking this book. But the main reason I deducted half a star is a spoiler which I will discuss here: .
In Bed with the Devil was highly enjoyable for me. I can't sing enough praises. But be warned, it definitely deals with some dark themes . If you're looking for a passionate romance with a compelling plot and wonderfully crafted characters, I highly recommend this one. On with the series I go!
Rating: 4.5/5
December 19, 2022
⭐
1 star.
The chemistry and the romantic build up was lacking.
Too much miscommunication/misunderstandings.
Flat/bland and annoying main characters.
Somewhat jumbled and verbose.
Cringe-worthy.
Sensitive issues are written/handled in a rather light-hearted and thoughtless way. (psychological abuse, physical abuse, abuse etc.)
Dragged/boring.
May 22, 2018
Nuestra reseña en A la cama con... un libro
😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍
😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍
February 26, 2017
4,5 estrellas en realidad, pero me ha gustado tanto y me ha enamorado tanto Lucien que soy generosa y le pongo el 5.
No sé cómo he podido dejar esta serie por tanto tiempo cogiendo polvo en la estantería; bueno sí lo sé, no sabía lo que me estaba perdiendo.
En la cama con el diablo puede parecer un libro más de romántica, pero me ha encantado el trasfondo que la autora le ha dado a la trama y el carácter de los personajes, tanto principales como secundarios, al igual que la ambientación; ese ambiente de un Londres que muchas autoras no suelen explorar y es el Londres cruel, pobre e injusto que muchas personas sufrieron. El Londres de las calles y las leyes beneficiosas solo para las personas de gran poder.
A Lucien le introducen como un conde que es el mismísimo Diablo, pero gracias a la inesperada visita de Catherine proponiéndole un pacto digno de su nombre a cambio de su cooperación en un asesinato, se nos empieza a desvelar el verdadero Lucien, aquel que la sociedad no consigue ver por juzgar solo las apariencias y gracias a Catherine también podemos ver cómo los amigos de Lucien interaccionan y son una parte importante de su pasado, presente y futuro.
A todo este, hay que añadir una historia de amor que va creciendo con el tiempo y no de forma precipitada que ha hecho que no pudiera dejar de leer para ver cómo iba a acabar todo.
Si hay que ponerle el pero que ha hecho que bajara media estrella mi puntuación oficial, ha sido el final; demasiado precipitado en muchos sentidos que ha hecho que me quedara con una sensación agridulce en algunos momentos.
A pesar de todo, es una novela y una serie que recomiendo. Porque si el primer libro ya te engancha, la historia de los demás personajes son igual de intrigantes.
No sé cómo he podido dejar esta serie por tanto tiempo cogiendo polvo en la estantería; bueno sí lo sé, no sabía lo que me estaba perdiendo.
En la cama con el diablo puede parecer un libro más de romántica, pero me ha encantado el trasfondo que la autora le ha dado a la trama y el carácter de los personajes, tanto principales como secundarios, al igual que la ambientación; ese ambiente de un Londres que muchas autoras no suelen explorar y es el Londres cruel, pobre e injusto que muchas personas sufrieron. El Londres de las calles y las leyes beneficiosas solo para las personas de gran poder.
A Lucien le introducen como un conde que es el mismísimo Diablo, pero gracias a la inesperada visita de Catherine proponiéndole un pacto digno de su nombre a cambio de su cooperación en un asesinato, se nos empieza a desvelar el verdadero Lucien, aquel que la sociedad no consigue ver por juzgar solo las apariencias y gracias a Catherine también podemos ver cómo los amigos de Lucien interaccionan y son una parte importante de su pasado, presente y futuro.
A todo este, hay que añadir una historia de amor que va creciendo con el tiempo y no de forma precipitada que ha hecho que no pudiera dejar de leer para ver cómo iba a acabar todo.
Si hay que ponerle el pero que ha hecho que bajara media estrella mi puntuación oficial, ha sido el final; demasiado precipitado en muchos sentidos que ha hecho que me quedara con una sensación agridulce en algunos momentos.
A pesar de todo, es una novela y una serie que recomiendo. Porque si el primer libro ya te engancha, la historia de los demás personajes son igual de intrigantes.
November 21, 2022
Very enjoyable start to the series. This book was written in 2008 so has been reviewed many times. I found the first 1/3 book a bit slow laying out the plot but when it hit its stride was fast moving and entertaining. Loose ends are tied up and the storyline comes together. Enjoyed how they took care of the one who shall not be named....till later in the story lol!
September 9, 2015
Written December 26, 2014
4 1/2 Stars - In all parts tasteful, charming and entertaining. A lovely historical.
I’ve been listening to a wonderful 10 hrs audibook narrated by Susan Ericksen (and in parts Antony Ferguson) these Christmas days.
'In Bed With the Devil' was not just a very amusing listening when doing xmas-stuff it was also my first historical by Lorraine Heath. There will be more.
Enjoyed, liked and next to loved...
As I always do when I completely and fully imbibe an good and well written historical romances
***********************************************************
London 1851
About the roguishly handsome man they call the Devil Earl, Lucian Langdon, Earl of Claybourne and a, so to be, proper young lady, Catherine Mabry.
# He, Luce is the man who is assumed to be a evil scoundrel and is an accused murderer. The man (boy) who grew up on the violent London streets and whose life changed at thirteen.
# She, Catherine first saw him at an ball just seventeen and she was astonished. He becomes the dark man in her forbidden dreams. Five years later does she need him to help her to do something awful. - Murder a man.
***********************************************************
Short and sweet: (I must hurry on with Christmas chores)
This was a wonderful, both cute and funny, very tender romantic and well told romance (..in text by L Heath and narration by S Ericksen). Lovely characters, a hot hero and in all parts simply perfect. No complaints from me.
Enjoy, read or listen!!
I LIKE - **nodding** affirmative
4 1/2 Stars - In all parts tasteful, charming and entertaining. A lovely historical.
I’ve been listening to a wonderful 10 hrs audibook narrated by Susan Ericksen (and in parts Antony Ferguson) these Christmas days.
'In Bed With the Devil' was not just a very amusing listening when doing xmas-stuff it was also my first historical by Lorraine Heath. There will be more.
“The price you pay for waltzing with the devil is residing in hell.”
Enjoyed, liked and next to loved...
As I always do when I completely and fully imbibe an good and well written historical romances
***********************************************************
London 1851
About the roguishly handsome man they call the Devil Earl, Lucian Langdon, Earl of Claybourne and a, so to be, proper young lady, Catherine Mabry.
# He, Luce is the man who is assumed to be a evil scoundrel and is an accused murderer. The man (boy) who grew up on the violent London streets and whose life changed at thirteen.
# She, Catherine first saw him at an ball just seventeen and she was astonished. He becomes the dark man in her forbidden dreams. Five years later does she need him to help her to do something awful. - Murder a man.
‘Sighing, she looked out at the fog. It was like life, preventing her from seeing what was beyond reach. She wasn’t unhappy. She simply felt that something important was missing from her life.’
***********************************************************
Short and sweet: (I must hurry on with Christmas chores)
This was a wonderful, both cute and funny, very tender romantic and well told romance (..in text by L Heath and narration by S Ericksen). Lovely characters, a hot hero and in all parts simply perfect. No complaints from me.
Enjoy, read or listen!!
“Have you ever wanted something so badly that you would do anything, believe anything in order to acquire it?”
I LIKE - **nodding** affirmative
October 4, 2015
My first Heath novel not set in America didn't disappoint. The same strong storytelling and well-developed characters show up here in England.
Lucian Langdon, known unaffectionately as the Devil Earl, is shunned by society because of his murky ancestry and dubious past. Lady Catherine Mabry seems to be the only one in their high circles who's not intimidated by him or feels threatened by society's disapproval of her acceptance of him. When she approaches him for help with an outrageous task, their destinies are sealed.
There are strong connections to Dickens' Oliver Twist, even some hints that these characters may have been the basis for the story. Lucian's closest friends are from his days in the streets of London and they strengthen and add spice to the tale. His relationship with Catherine is fraught with tension, adding layers of sizzle to their romance. The dialogue is pithy and the underlying danger and mystery are wonderful elements, making this an intriguing and delicious story. Other themes (spousal abuse, child endangerment, etc.) also add weight.
I've wanted to start this series for a long time, especially since there are now two more connected series out there. It exceeded my expectations and I'm anxious to continue.
Lucian Langdon, known unaffectionately as the Devil Earl, is shunned by society because of his murky ancestry and dubious past. Lady Catherine Mabry seems to be the only one in their high circles who's not intimidated by him or feels threatened by society's disapproval of her acceptance of him. When she approaches him for help with an outrageous task, their destinies are sealed.
There are strong connections to Dickens' Oliver Twist, even some hints that these characters may have been the basis for the story. Lucian's closest friends are from his days in the streets of London and they strengthen and add spice to the tale. His relationship with Catherine is fraught with tension, adding layers of sizzle to their romance. The dialogue is pithy and the underlying danger and mystery are wonderful elements, making this an intriguing and delicious story. Other themes (spousal abuse, child endangerment, etc.) also add weight.
I've wanted to start this series for a long time, especially since there are now two more connected series out there. It exceeded my expectations and I'm anxious to continue.
April 3, 2023
4 Stars
Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise, the characters, the h, and the connection.
The Not-So-Good: The H not realizing what he really wanted sooner. I got a little frustrated tbh.
The Bad: The ending left me wanting. I wanted to experience
Overall: This was a fun surprise! I enjoyed this one. I liked their dialogue and the overall story. I think I need to look into more of this author's works...
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Catherine and Luke's story. Rumors say that Luke has killed a man, so when Catherine needs to have someone dealt with, that is who she turns to. Luke remembers Catherine because, while never properly introduced, she has never backed down from his bad reputation and that has made him drawn to her. When Luke realizes that Catherine can help polish his future betrothed to be in titled society, he strikes up an agreement with her. There is a friendship formed, some lines crossed, some suspenseful moments, and some secrets revealed...and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between focusing on Catherine and Luke in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Good, I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No, but they have an instant attraction and connection
H (Hero) rating: 4 stars. Luke. I liked him. I did want to shake him at a few points, but I appreciated how he took care of people and was humble.
h (heroine) rating: 4.5 stars. Catherine. I really liked her. She was smart, independent, loyal, and sassy.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: It's complicated...
Separation: No, I don't consider them to be "together" for them to be separated
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends a little abruptly with what I would call a HEA , though I would've really liked for a more detailed and farther glimpse into their future.
Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences
Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise, the characters, the h, and the connection.
The Not-So-Good: The H not realizing what he really wanted sooner. I got a little frustrated tbh.
The Bad: The ending left me wanting. I wanted to experience
Overall: This was a fun surprise! I enjoyed this one. I liked their dialogue and the overall story. I think I need to look into more of this author's works...
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Catherine and Luke's story. Rumors say that Luke has killed a man, so when Catherine needs to have someone dealt with, that is who she turns to. Luke remembers Catherine because, while never properly introduced, she has never backed down from his bad reputation and that has made him drawn to her. When Luke realizes that Catherine can help polish his future betrothed to be in titled society, he strikes up an agreement with her. There is a friendship formed, some lines crossed, some suspenseful moments, and some secrets revealed...and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between focusing on Catherine and Luke in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Good, I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No, but they have an instant attraction and connection
H (Hero) rating: 4 stars. Luke. I liked him. I did want to shake him at a few points, but I appreciated how he took care of people and was humble.
h (heroine) rating: 4.5 stars. Catherine. I really liked her. She was smart, independent, loyal, and sassy.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: It's complicated...
Separation: No, I don't consider them to be "together" for them to be separated
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends a little abruptly with what I would call a HEA , though I would've really liked for a more detailed and farther glimpse into their future.
Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,350 reviews