The Devil's Match

The Devil DeVere #4

by Victoria Vane

LIBRARY JOURNAL BEST E-BOOK ROMANCE

Once burned twice shy…but when old flames come together…passion reignites

When burned once … Arriving in London as her goddaughter's chaperone, Baroness Diana Palmerston-Wriothesley wants to avoid her erstwhile lover at all costs. Once nearly consumed by passion, four years has reduced the former inferno to bitterness and ashes.

By an old flame… A world-weary master of seduction, Ludovic "The Devil" DeVere is bored with his life of debauchery. He also recognizes with self-annoyance that the marks of his discontent have only increased upon a certain person's arrival in London. When Diana makes her appearance in his den of iniquity in all of her glorious self-righteous fury, he suddenly feels alive again.

Fire is best fought with fire… When Vesta mysteriously disappears, Diana has little choice but to appeal to DeVere for help. The moment she and DeVere reunite in the devil's lair., their mutual desire reignites with undeniable ferocity. While DeVere is hell-bent to have her back for keeps, Diana is equally determined to bring him to his knees…by acquiring some sensual secrets of her own.

"Damn you to hell, DeVere!" she cried, jerking out of his hold. "Yes, I want you now, but I would despise myself for it the moment we finished."

"Why?" he asked, confounded.

"Why? Because I once confused passion for deeper feeling. I won't make that mistake again."

"But don't you remember how it was between us? I can bring you rapture. You know that. What harm is there?"

She scoffed, "Surely the same words the serpent whispered to Eve."

THE DEVIL DEVERE SERIES:
A Wild Night's Bride #1
The Virgin Huntress#2
The Devil You Know #3
The Devil's Match #4
A Devil's Touch #4.5
Jewel Of the East #5
PREQUEL VIGNETTES:
Devil in the Making #1
The Trouble With Sin #2
Ned's Folly#3(less)

Genres: Historical Romance, Historical, Romance, Erotica, Historical Fiction, Novella, Regency Romance

First published August 23, 2012

About the author

ABOUT VICTORIA VANE

Victoria Vane is a bestselling award-winning author of smart and sexy romance. Her books have received many accolades to include the 2016 Red Carpet Award for Jewel of the East, 2014 RONE Award for Treacherous Temptations as well as Library Journal Best E-Book romance of 2012 for The Devil DeVere series. Victoria also writes romantic historical fiction as Emery Lee. Look for her new Highland saga coming summer of 2017.


Contact info:
Email: victoria.vane@hotmail.com Website: www.victoriavane.com
Blog: www.embracingromance.com
Blog:https://wildandwickedcowboys.wordpres...
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/YVeXrf
Twitter: @authorvictoriav Pinterest: http://bit.ly/1vONQZh
Amazon: http://amzn.to/10QMKT5 Goodreads: http://bit.ly/1sccsM4
YOU TUBE : http://bit.ly/1yNtEMP

AWARDS & ACCOLADES
2016 Red Carpet Finalist for ROUGH RIDER
2016 Red Carpet Finalist for JEWEL OF THE EAST
2015 Red Carpet Finals for SLOW HAND
2014 RONE Award for Treacherous Tempatations
2014 Rone Nomination for The Sheik Retold also LASR Best Book 2013 Nominee
THE DEVIL DEVERE SERIES
Library Journal Best E-Book Romance 2012, LR Cafe Best Series Nominee 2012
A Wild Night's Bride
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
•IRC Reader's Choice historical romance nominee
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
The Virgin Huntress
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
The Devil You Know
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
• The Romance Reviews Best Historical Romance Nominee
• LR Café Best Historical Romance nominee 2012
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
The Devil's Match
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
• The Romance Reviews Top Pick
• LASR Reviews Book of the Month December 2012
• Swept Away by Romance Best Historical Romance of 2012
• LR Café Best Author Nominee 2012
• Swept Away by Romance Favorite Author 2012
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
A Devil's Touch
Swept Away by Romance Best Novella 2013 nominee
A Breach of Promise , December 2011 Ellora's Cave
• Night Owl Reviews “Top Pick”
• Reading Romances 5 flames and “Pen Award”
• TBR Pile 5stars/Book of the month winner September 2012
• LASR Erotic Reviews 5 STAR/Book of the Month Nominee
• The Romance Studio 5 Sweetheart Nominee
• TRS CAPA Nominee 2012

Reviews

[UniquelyMoi ~ BlithelyBookish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once burned twice shy… but when old flames come together…passion reignites...

The Devil’s Match is the fourth and final book in Victoria Vane’s The Devil DeVere series and such a fitting end to Vic and Diana’s story. It's true what they say about "opposites attract" because never have two people been so poorly suited, and yet, so perfectly matched!

When burned once…

Arriving in London as her goddaughter's chaperone, Baroness Diana Palmerston-Wriothesley wants to avoid her erstwhile lover at all costs. Once nearly consumed by passion, four years has reduced the former inferno to bitterness and ashes.

By an old flame...

A world-weary master of seduction, Ludovic "The Devil" DeVere is bored with his chosen life of debauchery. When Diana's charge disappears, she is forced to seek help from the devil's lair, and their mutual desire reignites with undeniable ferocity.

Fire is best fought with fire…

While DeVere is hell-bent to have her back for keeps, Diana is equally determined to bring him to his knees…by acquiring some sensual secrets of her own.

I can’t even begin to tell you how much I enjoyed this story! Vic and Diana are fabulous together, their banter, the sexual tension… loved it! And it was such a treat to spend time with Ned and Phoebe, and Hew and Vesta, while getting even deeper into the very hearts and minds of Vic and Diana.

One of the things I most love about these stories is that Victoria Vane provides just enough period detail to make her readers feel like we’re actually there, not merely reading a story, but living it. A part of it. Many authors write historical romance, but not many do it as well as this author does. And can I just mention, this book has one of the steamiest, most sensual and sexually intimate scenes I’ve read. Beautiful and very, very hot.

The bottom line: Over the course of the series I’ve come to adore Vic and Diana, though at times I wasn’t sure how that could possibly happen. Silly me, I should have never doubted Ms. Vane’s ability to weave a tale sure to draw me in and hold on tight, right to the very end. The Devil’s Match is a funny, heartwarming, passionate ‘end’ to Vic and Diana’s story, and though I was left with a smile on my face, I’m also a bit sad that their tale is complete!

4.5/5 stars

My thanks to Breathless Press and Victoria Vane for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Deliciously, delectable stars!

Baroness Diana Palmerston-Wriothesley finds herself back in London, on DeVere's doorstep, wanting an explanation to the sudden disappearance of her goddaughter Vesta. Only to be confronted with immoral and self-indulgent behaviour from the Devil himself. After no contact from him for the last four years, the passion they once shared has turned to bitterness.

Ludovic "The Devil" DeVere has become bored with his life of debauchery. When Diana is forced to seek his help, he discovers that he still desires her with a passion and is determined to get her back in his life and his bed.

The mutual desire that Diana and Ludovic find themselves feeling, reignites in this book and is scorchingly hot, that it will have you reaching for a fan just to cool off.

"And now that you are here, I intend to lie with you and fuck you senseless day and night in countless ways, until you are either purged from my system completely or branded on my very soul."

This is sensually and seductively written, and is accompanied wtth the wit and humour that Victoria Vane does so well. Enjoy, because I certainly did!

And just to get you in the mood, check out this cool book trailer for the series.

The Devil Series

ARC kindly provided by Victoria Vane for an honest review.

[Karla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review posted at: Swept Away By Romance

5 DeVere-ly Delicious Stars!!! The Devil’s Match set me on FIRE!! Diana is the perfect 'match' for this Devil in every sense of the word. She is the one who lights the flame that IGNITES DeVere’s passion.

Ludovic is wicked, smug, indulges too much, and is devilishly delicious!! BUT, what I love about him most is deep down, he’s a good man, takes care of the ones he loves, no matter the cost to him. His ego might be inflated ten-fold, but we come to see, that underneath it all is a man who’s suffered his fair share of pain and shame.

I love Diana’s strength, but DeVere has cracked her resolve and she is defenseless against the only man who has ever shown her what it feels like to be desired. Now she is determined to have him, not only in body, but win his heart and soul too. What she does and how she does it…well...you might want to read this in a tub filled with ice cubes!!


”“Feel?” she cried out. “What could a man like you possibly feel beyond your—”
“My what?” He brought her hand to his groin. “Say it, Diana. I love hearing vulgar words from your lovely lips.”
“I refuse to gratify that.” She snatched her hand away as if burned.
He laughed. “Then I’ll say it for you—my cock. The part of me that oftimes governs my life. Yes, I feel a great deal there and with great frequency, but each encounter is soon forgotten. You were the exception to that. You were never just a fuck to me. Can’t you understand that? For the first time, I wanted more. I wanted something else from you, Diana, but that something was denied me. And when I knew I couldn’t have it, when it appeared utterly impossible, I was enraged.”


The writing is SUPERB!! The dialogue shines, and with every word you become more attached and invested in the characters. Victoria Vane injects witty, snarky humor and she is the “Mistress of Sensuality”. It’s not just a romp in the sack, but a full out exploration and adventure in sexuality, luscious, delicious erotica which is passionate and leaves you breathless. All that and we get to visit with the darling, sexy Ned, his lovely wife Phoebe, the lively, spirited Vesta and her adoring betrothed, Hew. They are woven nicely into the plot, with some humorous fatherly moments from Ned, and they add another layer to this already rich story.


The epilogue was over-the-top fitting! One I never expected, but was thrilled to read and so deserving of this wonderful couple that I’ve grown to love throughout the series. I hope this is not the last that we read of them. I know they will make appearances as the series goes forward, but I’m hoping that Victoria might consider giving us vignettes that feature Ludovic and Diana, with glimpses into their lives, and knowledge that their passion for each other still burns hot!!

*My thanks to Victoria Vane for an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review*

[♡Karlyn P♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

5+! Holy smokes, this series is so amazingly good! I glommed all four books. And while I really enjoyed book 1 & 2, it turns out they were just the warm up act for book 3 & 4. With each book the plot thickens, the heat gets hotter and hotter, and twists and turns came faster and faster. If you’re a fan of spicy, erotic historical romances, I couldn’t recommend this series enough.

THE DEVILS MATCH (book 4 of The Devil DeVere series) is the conclusion to Lord DeVere and Lady Diana’s story. (If you haven’t read THE DEVIL YOU KNOW, please go back and read it first!) This story takes readers back to the ‘current time’ for the series, and begins where book 2 left off: DeVere and Diana are bitter enemies with a sordid past. Only now we know the full extent of their history and passion for one another, and we can see their situation from a much different perspective.

DeVere and Diana are both god parents to Vesta Chambers, Ned’s 18 y/o daughter and heroine of book 2. When Hew and Vesta’s wedding is moved to the country and near a major race, DeVere and Diana make a wager on whose horse will win. And what does the winner get? I won’t spoil it, but you can only image what a man nicknamed ‘devil’ would do to get a woman he once thought he loved back in his life and bed.

The passion between these two crackled and sizzled. As much of their muddied past becomes clearer and clearer, the walls built between theme slowly erode. Oh, I loved watching these two fight their passion. Yum!

The last half of this book was just pure erotic heaven!! I mean HOT, HOT, HOT!! These were some well written sex scenes; full of passion, chemistry, heat and emotion.

Lastly, I have to say how glad I am that the author told their story in the manner she did; with their past story told in one book, then their current story told in another. I am not a fan of the back-and-forth storytelling as it can be very jarring to follow two stories at one time. So thank you Ms Vane for writing it this way, it was utterly delicious and built so much anticipation for this final book! I had a blast reading this series.

[Victoria Vane · Rating 5 out of 5]

MINI-EXCERPT:

DeVere's gaze narrowed. "Why so concerned for my brother? One might think you have feelings for Hew."
"What if I did?" she retorted. "It's no business of yours! Besides, your abominable machinations have already destroyed any potential of that."
DeVere rose and came to her, perching himself on the arm of the settle. "My honorable and straitlaced brother could never satisfy a woman like you, Diana. He could never plumb the depths of your passion...unlock your secret desires."
His voice was low and seductive, and the flickering blue fire in his eyes heated her insides. Diana fiercely tamped down the smoldering sensation that threatened to reignite feelings she'd struggled to suppress. "And what would you know of my wants and desires after four years?"
"A great deal." He gave her a slow, confident smile. "Given that I was the one to unleash them."
Diana averted her face with a bitter laugh. "Thus you presume to have an exclusive claim to me?"
"Has any other exerted one?" he asked softly. He reached out a hand and traced a long, manicured finger along her jaw. "You are still unwed, Diana. Have you taken another lover in my absence?"
"It is none of your business whether I have or not, and you are grossly impertinent to ask."
He laughed long and low. "I think I have my answer."
She glared at him, and thus they remained, silently challenging one another for an interminable beat. Then suddenly his mouth was on hers, taking, possessing, as if it was indeed, his singular privilege.
Diana leaned into him, teasing his lower lip with her tongue and sucking it eagerly into her mouth before sinking her teeth into it. Hard. Savoring the coppery taste of his blood.
"What the hell!" DeVere jerked back with a cry. He touched his lip and examined the crimson stain on his fingertip, his expression a mix of outrage and bemusement.
"You took without invitation," Diana said. "It was a warning not to do so again."

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review posted at: Swept Away By Romance

Story Rating, 5 AMAZINGINGLY BRIGHT STARS!
Character Rating, 5 of the BRIGHTEST STARS IN THE SKY!
Romance Rating, 5 SPARKING STARS!
Heat Level, 5 BLAZING HOT STARS!
Overall Rating, MORE STARS THAN THE GALAXY!!

Can you tell that I LOVED this book? It was an AMAZING read for me. I LOVED the 3 previous books in this series, but this was the ALMOND OIL ON THE KAMIS :-) If you have no idea what I'm talking about, you’re just going to have to read for yourself to find out. So I urge you to go and buy this series and read for yourselves just why everyone is giving this series rave reviews.

This story takes place after The Devil You Know, and for me this was the BEST of the four books I've read in this series. I LOVED every moment of it. The story line was phenomenal and took me through so many emotions while reading. I did not want to put the book down. I can hardly believe the depth these character had, just fantastic! They were VERY unique and each had their own perfect place in this series. The romance in this book really kicked it up for me. The chemistry between Ludovic and Diana was excellent and once Ludovic finally had Diana agreeing that she wanted him, the heat level exploded like a nuclear bomb! I tell you, I learned a few good sexual tricks to try on my husband reading this book. LOL! Near the end I was a bit worried about how these two would ever be together, but I need not have worried, because Victoria wrote a wonderful ending that made me sigh and put a huge smile on my face.

Thank you Victoria for taking the time with each book in this series to give your readers such an AMAZING read, with original characters, a fantastic romance, plenty of steam and epilogue with an HEA. Every good romance I feel needs an epilogue and that you surely delivered :-)

[KatLynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Luscious Stars

The fourth installment in Victoria Vane's The Devil DeVere Series and my Favorite! We are given Ludovic and Diana's story and I was enthralled! This one sizzles with heat and I held my breath wanting these two together! I loved it from beginning to end and did not want to put it down until finished.

Victoria Vane has done it again and given us a winner! I'm looking forward to reading more by this very talented writer!

There are so many wonderful reviews here from my GR friends. One in particular stood out and I loved it along with Jill's imagination.

http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...

[Lisa Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Attar of Damask Rose
Available at http://www.etsy.com/
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★★★★★ (This is a review of the audiobook.) Eva Hathaway is the narrator again for part two of Ludovic and Diana’s story. I really appreciated her delivery of Salime’s (“Jewel of the East”) accent. She is still hitting her “S” letters harder than necessary, but the story is so good, I got totally drawn into the telling.

Ms. Hathaway does a nice job differentiating the characters, infusing their personalities and appropriate tones for the situation into the voices, and her pacing is very good.

Victoria Vane continues with her witty novel set in Georgian England. Getting the essence of this setting is her forte. Not that her characters aren’t delightful; they are! It is just that not everyone can write this difficult era of the idle rich with all their pomp, fluff, romantic liaisons, and manipulations. She pulled me in completely and made me care about these characters. And all the while it remained fun! Sure, I wanted to talk some sense into Ludovic, but he get’s it right eventually.

[Keri · Rating 5 out of 5]

An awesome ending! Ludvic “The Devil” De Vere is a very bad man or a very good man depending on he is giving you pleasure or pain. To Diane he is evil incarnate as he broke her heart four years ago, when he abruptly cut their romance short, but of course she never forgot him or the feelings that he awakened in her. When a turn of events brings her back into his life, she is determined to be as cold as ice and twice as frosty when it comes to dealing with the “The Devil”. Ludvic has his own agenda with the lovely Diane and he has never forgotten the one person in his life that he put first that he wasn’t related to. Was it love, well he wasn’t willing to go that far, but he felt something. Ludvic had horrible parents, so it colored his entire outlook on marriage, fidelity and love. But once he and Diane go to war, as you know there is a thin line between love and hate and when they touch one another hate isn’t what keeps coming up. ;-) The ending was different on how Ludvic and Dianne got around his issues with marriage and thought the ending was extremely sweet and one of my favs. If you haven’t read the series, do pick it up, but pick up the first 3 first, as this are short stories, but they all work tightly in tandem with one another. The love scenes are spicy and I am looking forward to the next in the series.

[Duchess Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am just so, SO impressed with this book series. I've never read anything like it before, and I was hesitant at first to start a series made up of nothing but novellas. But they each were so closely tied together, and Ms. Vane just has such a way of cutting the extra, unneeded junk out and condensing the dialogue, the setting, the worthless characters and villains. Every word moves you on to the next thought or action. And every word makes you want more. DeVere and Diana's story has been slowly building throughout the series, so if you haven't read the first three, I highly recommend that you do.

After reading the previous book, The Devil You Know, I fell in instant lust with Ludovic DeVere. The ultimate playboy of London, and the way the book ended I was just certain that the author couldn't make me fall in LOVE with him. He just has the demeanor of a solid player...he cares for no woman. He allows them the use of his body, that's all. There is something truly sexy about complete confidence and a complete lack of inhibitions. Even when it came to Diana, I kept feeling as if he held back. He never spoke to her of feelings; it was always visceral and visual. The look in his eyes, their mutual feelings when they were together...but the way it all ended!!!! Break my heart!! Poor Diana! And poor DeVere...until I remembered what a hoochie he was being while Diana secluded herself away from society.

Without giving away spoilers, let me say that I am officially won over. And it didn't even happen until the last bit of the story. The way this couple dances around each other is painful but so fun to watch! Again, this book has a more serious feel to it than the first two of the series. We get background info on DeVere which really helps the reader to understand the why's of the way he is.

I just loved this series. Erotic and refreshing, I will for sure keep an eye out for more by this wonderful author!

One big defense here...I've seen a rash of publishers doling out a measly two or three chapters at a time...releasing one every month or so and charging for each...the ebook ends up costing the reader a bundle for an ebook that is no bigger than normal. THIS IS NOT ONE OF THOSE! These novellas are each around 130-150 pages, and tell a completely self contained story. You won't put your reader down and grumble about a cliffhanger...even between The Devil You Know and this one...they are both about DeVere and Diana, and although that installment makes you WANT more D&D, you're still satisfied with the end.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This final, delicious novella picks right up after The Virgin Huntress with Lady Diana confronting her former lover, the devil himself, Lord DeVere. With her goddaughter missing she knows that DeVere, her goddaughter godfather, surely had something to do with it and she walks into his den of pleasure and all the buried feelings between them, fire right back up. However as DeVere broke Diana's heart, she has no interest in letting him back into her life or her bed...no matter how she yearns to. Diana wants more from him and DeVere has a checkered past that he refuses to let continue on with him and refuses to marry and have an heir, so they seem to come to an impasse... until a wager gives Diana the idea to show DeVere some sensual tricks she has recently learned. Hoping to finally bring him to his knees, will he turn the tables on her and leave her shattered again or can this couple find long awaited happiness together?

Victoria Vane has written and delivered a delightful series and The Devil's Match is the perfect conclusion to this group (she did announce there is more to come next year!). There has been build up in the previous stories for what will happen between Diana and DeVere and I am so happy it ended so wonderfully! I wasn't sure about Diana in the beginning of the series but as she was revealed I really grew to like her and want her to have the happy ending she so deserved after a loveless marriage. As for the DeVere, underneath his rakish, devil may care attitude, is a strong heart that loves very deeply within a protective nature. He didn't have the best childhood and he wants to stay away from repeating the same mistakes. But when he realizes the truth of his heart, his promise to his brother holds his steadfast and almost costs him everything. I so loved seeing more real depth to DeVere and made his love for Diana all the more real for me. The added return of all the previous characters from the previous stories add a wonderful balance. If you have not read this series yet--what are you waiting for? It is filled with sizzling passion, heartbreak, humor and triumph and is a must read for all romance fans. A Devil's Match has all that written within the scrumptious Georgian setting and with Ms Vane's trademark eye for detail that make her stories come alive. I devoured this latest installment and am so excited she announced she is writing more in this series! 4 1/2 stars

Thanks so much to Ms Vane for providing me with this ebook early!!

[~V~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED!!! The perfect conclusion to Ludovic DeVere and Diana's love story!!! It also made me sooooo happy to have the couples from the first two books be such a big part of this one, it gave me the closure i was looking for! Everyone's HEAs are now complete!! :)

[Daisy Sloan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Devil has met his match!

The Devil’s Match is the fourth installment of the Devil Devere Series by Victoria Vane. This one had me crying. Devil DeVere and Diana keep ending up at odds with each other and it just made me cry! They need and want each other so much and it just kept falling apart!

As the series has continued, the heat level has risen, until it’s pretty dang hot! The passion between Devil and Diana has grown until it’s scorching and I felt like I was going to combust just reading about their sexcapades! Of course, Diana can’t just give in to Devil, her honor won’t allow that. So, how does she give in to him while maintaining her honor? Why, a wager of course!

I thoroughly enjoyed Devil and Diana’s story. It was the most heart-wrenching and passion filled of all the DeVere stories. I came to love Devil for he has honor, but he doesn’t play by the rules set forth by anyone else. He takes care of his own while playing by his own rules. Diana is everything society expects her to be. Devil encourages her to give in to her passion and live her life they way she wants.

The question now is will Devil give in and follow society’s dictates or will he convince Diana to live the hedonistic lifestyle he embraces?

Victoria Vane’s characters embody everything that is right and wrong with proper society in the 1780’s. On the one hand we have honor and society’s expectations. On the other, we have the wants and desires of people. The two do not always meet in the middle. Finding a way to meet the needs of society and people is not always easy. It is a struggle and sacrifice to make it happen. Ms. Vane does an outstanding job of bringing the reader into the story and making them feel everything the characters are feeling. She also helps the reader understand restrictions placed on people as they move through society.

I’m also very pleased to find out the Devil DeVere series will continue for at least 2 more stories! I’m eagerly awaiting the next ones! Write faster Ms. Vane, write faster!

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Miranda Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have a miserable, end of the cold season cold. But I have forgotten all about it. Why? Other reviews may dance around why they like this series, and this book in it. I'll just put it out there: This author writes the steamiest, tease and denial erotica I've come across. Seriously.

It starts with little things. Devil Devere kisses Diana his temptress and bete noire, but it doesn't happen as I expect. The heroine's response is better -- I respect her for it tremendously -- and righter, given her opinion of him. And it's hooooot.

Then bigger things. They race their horses against each other for high personal stakes, I think one thing is going to happen, but it doesn't; something else does and something even less expected happens after that, so while the outcome is what I might've guessed it would be (rather, I was hoping it would be), it comes about after three left turns. (And the author was just warming up for things to come.)

Then there's a Turkish theme happening and this is where the serious, symptom-relieving mojo starts happening. I mean, Turkish hammam (traditional baths&massage), almond oil, harem skills and 6 denials of ecstasy (his). I was wheezing and sweating and it had nothing to do with my cold.

That's not to say this romance didn't work at the clothes-on levels, too. It did. Much baggage, much unspoken but understandable longing and distance, a rake using debauchery to disguise his pain and need, his act of self-sacrifice to help the helpless, requiring another surprising sacrifice, he's revealed to be a genuine keeper. She's a spitfire, this Diana the huntress, a woman who comes to terms with disappointments handed to her but with spine enough to hold a proper grudge despite her inconvenient itch for the devil she knows. Naturally, she intends to win at the game, though she's lost a wager to him. And her method of fighting back made for a truly rousing read.

BTW, I read this as a stand alone and it worked for me.

[(Nat) Reading Romances · Rating 5 out of 5]

I ran out of adjectives for Victoria's books. I conclude this series still thinking, now more than ever, that it's a must read for historical erotic romance fans.
Attention, you must read the previous 3 books before The Devil's Match. And to respect my reader, I can't give away anything, cause everything is so spoilery!
(...)
The Devil's Match was an elegant closure to the Devil DeVere series, and warped it up fantastically. It set a high standard from start to finish in a fabulous way. Congratulations to Victoria Vane for this highly successful journey, through carefully crafted stories penned with magnificent sexuality.
(...)

Read the full review here: http://wp.me/p27N1w-1t3

[Zusi · Rating 5 out of 5]

After finishing The Devil You Know, I got a little upset because I didn't realize there was going to be a sequel. I mentioned that in my review and Victoria offered to send me The Devil's Match even before it was out. I was so excited that I stayed up another night to finish it.
Finally the ending I was hoping for! :)
Diana and Ludovic are perfect for each other. If you are a sucker for amazing epilogues, don't miss out on this little gem!!

[Carol Cork *Young at Heart Oldie* · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Devil’s Match deserves all these accolades because Ms Vane has definitely struck gold with the final part of DeVere and Diana’s story. It’s innovative, compelling, heart-breaking, passionate, romantic, and funny. An unforgettable experience.

The things I LOVED about this novella:

Setting

Once again I was swept back to the Georgian era; an age of elegance, decadence, self-indulgence and extravagance which Ms Vane captures so brilliantly.

Story

SPOILER FREE

Nothing more than a few teasers:-

The sting of a viper, a pair of lovebirds, a pitcher of water, a malevolent stare, a minuet, locked French doors, pieces of a puzzle, family secrets, a wager, almond oil, a veiled figure, a romantic idyll, a heart-rending decision, a tear-stained letter, a desperate man…

Writing

I never fail to be impressed by Ms Vane’s writing. It is highly evocative,deeply sensual and delightfully wicked, creating a real sense of mood and atmosphere

DeVere

I love watching DeVere emerge into the man I knew he could be. There were glimpses of that man in The Devil You Know; as a loyal friend and a protective brother as well as a man willing to make a personal sacrifice in order to protect Diana from scandal. Now Ms Vane gradually peels away those final layers to a reveal a sensitive, kind, generous and loving man. But I love how he still manages to retain that devilish charm and sharp wit. A truly heart-stopping romantic hero!

Diana

It is a stronger, more confident Diana who emerges in this book. I love how she challenges DeVere at every opportunity and refuses to play by his rules. This time she’ll be the one to set the rules and she has a few surprises in store for DeVere! She is certainly the perfect woman to tame this ‘Devil’ forcing him to open up his heart to her and prove that he is indeed worthy of her love.

Those ‘X’ Rated Moments

I LOVE, LOVE the sizzling sexual tension Ms Vane manages to create between DeVere and Diana with:

That sexy dialogue -

Diana spun toward the door. “You will call, my lord, or you will much regret my methods of rousing you.”
“I doubt that, my dear,” he replied. “You may rouse me any way you like.”

Those heated looks -

… and the flickering blue fire in his eyes heated her insides.

Those simple touches -

She felt his hard thighs against her backside and his hands on her waist, slowly ascending, the heat of his touch infusing her skin through the light silk of her gown. His thumbs brushed the outsides of her breasts, making her body rack with tiny but undeniable quivers of sensation.

Those wicked thoughts –

Her lush, full breasts moved freely. He could make out the hint of dusky nipple thatteased his flesh as she reached across his body. He restrained the urge to grasp one of those magnificent mounds by clenching his fists by his sides.

Ms Vane's combination of raw sensuality and emotional intensity in the love scenes really made me believe they truly love each other.

Secondary Characters

I enjoyed meeting up with Hew, Vesta, Ned and Phoebe again and they certainly added their own particular charm to the mixture. I particularly like Vesta’s devious attempts at matchmaking, Ned’s outraged father act and it is nice to see Diana and Phoebe becoming friends.

Humour

Ms Vane’s wonderful humour is very much in evidence again in this book and here are just a few of my favourite quotes.

“I confess I am impressed, Hew. I never knew that beneath that hardened soldier’s veneer lay the heart of a poet. Such a touching display. I was almost moved to retrieve my handkerchief.”
“Sod off, Vic.” Hew glowered.
“Not my usual preference,” Ludovic shot back. “Now if you lovebirds are quite finished, I have a pledge to keep. Let us depart for Upper Grosvenor.”

“Good God, Ned! Can’t a man even gather his wits before you begin the harangue? At least let me cover my arse.”
“I’ll grant you a moratorium of ten minutes, DeVere.” Ned fixed him with a menacing glare. “No more, or I’ll be dragging you through the streets bare arsed by your bollocks. I’ll be waitingin that so-called library of yours.”
“I take exception to that, Ned.” DeVere looked affronted. “Some of those books are priceless. I happen to have the finest collection of erotology in London.”

“Just look at them, Hew,” Vesta gushed as Diana and DeVere departed the dance floor. “Have you ever seen a more handsome couple? Who would ever have thought?”
“Couple? I see no couple,” said Hew, remarking Diana’s flight. “She has left my brother standing there gaping. To all appearances, she could not leave him fast enough.”


Epilogue

I have to mention this because it is just the perfect ending and so funny as well.


x 4!!!


I was so delighted to learn that Ms Vane has announced there will be three more titles for the Devil DeVere series:

Devil in the Making , Devil by Another Name and A Devil in Diamonds

It seems she’s not ready to say goodbye yet and neither am I!

VERDICT: AMAZING! FABULOUS! FANTASTIC!

RATING: ★★★★★



The Assembled Cast

DeVere


Diana


Ned


Phoebe


Hew



Vesta


My sincere thanks to Ms Vane for kindly providing me with an ARC in return for an honest review.

[Joy (Cheery♡Reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very big thank you to Victoria Vane for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. You know I love you lots ♡

After those fateful moments, four years later, Diana has grown angry and bitter. Expecting too see her attraction to Ludovic wane and diminish after all these years, she was dismayed that it has grown stronger and fiercer than before but she was very adamant in avoiding and denying it.

On the other hand, Ludovic has traveled abroad during those missing years and engaged in every manner of debauchery to purge himself of his feeling of something for Diana. Alas, it failed as when he meets her again, he becomes restless and bored of his usual activities. They became meaningless. All he could think of was wanting Diana.

It was awesome to see the fiery interactions between our beloved hero and heroine. I was also glad to see that our main characters from the first two books were regulars in this book. I had only two issues for this book. Salime played a pretty distinct role somewhere towards the middle but she quickly disappeared from her role after that as I was pretty much looking forward to Diana dancing. Another is the transition to the "fourteen months later". I didn't mind the time transition. I just thought that the flow towards it was rather abrupt. But these are just very, very minor issues because I A.D.O.R.E.D the epilogue. It was really sweet and utterly complete.

The Devil's Match has been a delightful, exciting and naughty read. I can definitely say that it is the hottest and sexiest book among the rest in the series. I am really sad to this amazing series finally come to an end. I hope Victoria Vane will continue to deliver many more tantalizing treats of the same kind in the near future.

[Lady Wesley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow! This one is hot, hot, hot! As always, Victoria Vane magically transports the reader back into the 18th century with pitch-perfect dialogue and descriptions. It's such fun to see Diana and DeVere finally get their HEA (although, really, the epilogue was quite over the top!). This entire series has been lots of fun. And we just recently learned that there's more to come!

Thanks Victoria for offering me the opportunity for this delightful advance read.

[Vikki Vaught · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an excellent finish to this great series. I really enjoyed reading Ludovic and Diana's story. Ms. Vane did not disappoint with this one. She has such a way with words, it makes me green with envy. I loved the epilogue. I always find it so satisfying when the author closes all the questions that were raised in their story, and Ms. Vane is a master at this. I highly recommend this book. I rarely give 5 star ratings, but this book well deserved it. I can't wait for her next project.

[Mitzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 4 in series. I love this author's style of writing...What a great series. Can't wait to read more of her books!!! Loved this one!!!

[CaroleDee · Rating 5 out of 5]

There absolutely could not have been a better conclusion to Diana and Ludovic DeVere's tale!

The 'Devil's' past is finally revealed. From his shocking beginnings to compassionate actions it becomes clear that DeVere isn't exactly the villain that Diana and society think him to be.

Diana finally learns to overcome her insecurities and embrace her long denied feelings.

The Devil's Match has certain turned out to be the most erotic in the DeVere series. Not because of the frequency of sexual encounters but more from the sensuality conjured. An intimate look into the world of 'Eastern' erotic arts takes place in the latter half of the novella and it is absolutely carnal ;)

I've said it before and I'll say it again, The Devil DeVere series is an absolute must read for lovers of the romance genre. In under 150 pages Vane is somehow able to evoke the passion, heartache, and drama that is usually found in full length novels!

*originally posted on http://www.bittenbyparanormalromance....

[Jae · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it, but not as much as book #3.

Call me vicious, but Ludovic needed to suffer and grovel a whole lot more before Diana should take him back. Then only I could shelf this in my LOVVIT slot. I'm blood thirsty like that.

All in all, I had a great time with the series. Victoria Vane, you are on my radar now (thanks to Jill the Aussie koala bear for that) and I will read more of you in the future.

[Christy English · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book. The fabulous conclusion to a fabulous series. As I was reading it, I had one of those tough moments when a novel is so good, I don't want to put it down, but if I don't stop reading, it will end too soon. I had to start rationing it out. What a fabulous problem to have.

[Nessa · Rating 4 out of 5]

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR PASSION AND ANGST? THIS IS THE ONE. IT'S NOT TOO LONG AND NOT SHORT LIKE A NOVELLA, MAKING IT A GREAR QUICKIE READ.

HERO is the Devil DuVere who isn't ashamed of his wicked ways as a man and has travelled around the world sampling the glorious palette of women from all places. But there is only one woman he can never forget and lately he's gotten jaded and antsy. Back in Diana's life after four years of having left their affair hanging...Well sort of, he wants her back and he's determined to have her or he will expire from blue balls since no one else will do. It's clear he loves her and wants her badly but just doesn't seem aware of it. When a bet leads her back into his arms, he wants to keep her there for good yet he can't marry her! Dilemma dilemma.

HEROINE fell into an affair with DuVere after her husband's death and developed feelings for him only to have him leaving her suddenly, resulting in her hurt and bitterness. Four years later she is ready to spurn him at every turn but the man wants her back and she's hard pressed to resist!

OVERALL I seriously just read this for the angst. The passion was smouldering and I loved how the heroine didn't give an inch and DuVere had to do all the work and winning her back. Certainly gratifying to see a grown alpha male desperate for Diana's love.

[Darbella · Rating 1 out of 5]

Story ends as a cliff hanger. No hfn or hea. This is the middle part of this story. Meh to me. I regret buying this series.

[Jenny Q · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a double review of THE DEVIL YOU KNOW and THE DEVIL'S MATCH ~ No Spoilers!

I read these back-to-back and thought I'd post my thoughts on them in one review since the novellas in this series flow right into one another. From the very first installment, A Wild Night's Bride, I've been dying to find out what happened all those years ago between the very prim and proper Lady Diana and Ludovic "the Devil" DeVere. The tension between them continued throughout The Virgin Huntress and was hot enough to burn up the pages. Thankfully, both The Devil You Know and The Devil's Match are devoted to Diana and Ludovic, who have become one of my favorite historical romance match-ups!

You know that old saying, opposites attract? Never has that been more true than with these two. Diana's straight-laced and proper, resigned to her role as dutiful wife in a loveless marriage, whereas Ludovic is debauchery and self-indulgence defined. But you know there's more to each of them than that, and they know it too, from the first time they meet. Over the course of The Devil You Know their relationship begins. Against the backdrop of a country getaway, a very important horse race, and a life-altering chain of events with tragic consequences, Diana breaks free into the woman she's always wanted to be, while Ludovic discovers that there is something worth having and sacrificing everything for, even if it means he has to let go of that which he most wants. The Devil You Know is a meaty and emotional installment in the series, where the real crux of their story appears, and I couldn't put it down. It's probably my favorite. These are two really complex characters whom I've really grown attached to, but it's a rocky road to happiness for these two, and what follows is a period of separation, grief, and anger.

And that's where The Devil's Match picks up their story again in the present day. Diana and Ludovic have spent the past five years trying to forget about each other, but now that their lives have intersected again, they can't stop thinking about each other. Diana decides she deserves a little gratification and she's willing to do whatever it takes to make sure Ludovic never forgets their encounter. But Ludovic has plans of his own, to make sure that once Diana's back in his bed, she never wants to leave him again. Sparks fly in a smokin' hot sensual battle of wills, but The Devil's Match was not quite as satisfying for me as the other novellas in the series, possibly because it's the one I'd been most looking forward to and I had high expectations for it. I was a little frustrated that so much emphasis was placed on the sexuality of their relationship when I wanted more meaningful substance and emotional payoff after the build-up of their story throughout the whole series.

But, all's well that ends well -- and I really can't complain about those sex scenes since they were scorch-the-pages-take-your-husband-upstairs HOT! I have really enjoyed reading this set of four inter-connected novellas. They're the perfect length, easily readable in an evening, and full of passion, wit, and luscious Georgian England historical detail. And there's good news! Victoria Vane has plans in the works for four more novellas connected to this series next year!

[Kristin Anders · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Devil DeVere series rating: 4 out of 5 stars

"The Devil's Match" is novella #4 in this novella series and
can be read as a stand-alone novel.

How are the sex scenes?
A twist for Georgian romance.
The East's Harem has an influence in this novella as the heroine learns there are many benefits to a...erm, massage.

How are the story lines?
Wonderful, if a bit rushed. There's a strict word count
and sometimes the scenes would read better with more transition.

Setting

"The Devil's Match" is a Georgian historical romance based mostly in Woodcote Park, Epson, Surrey, England. It prologues in 1778 with a scene from The Devil You Know, then jumps to 1783, just days after The Virgin Huntress ends.

(Remember, novella #3 is a prequel to the entire series.)

The Epilogue starts in 1794, and to tell you the location would be a spoiler.

Review

The Virgin Huntress's couple, Captain Hugh and Lady Vesta, are being wedded and everyone's attending Woodcote Park for the big celebration. Diana is making plans to leave Hugh's estate since her place as Vesta's caretaker is no longer needed. The Devil is determined to have Diana back in his bed after five (or four?) years.

A wager forces our love birds to confront their still-burning attraction and the novella takes a turn for the exotic, erotic and unpredictable. (Sorry - more detail would spoil the story.)

Our Devil has a juicy, juicy secret and it's revealed quickly - hidden during a conversation between him and Diana. It tempts me to reread the series and confirm if he's telling truth. Given his preference for receiving oral sex, I think he might be.

Vane's strength lies in creating lifelike, complex characters who are not always heroes or villians. Vesta is irritatingly spoiled, yet finds understanding for Phoebe. DeVere shows random acts of kindness, but is still The Devil at heart. Like real people.

Remember to stay tuned for the Epilogue, because it's not the blissful cherry on top of the story you'd imagine.


There are two errors. Read about them here.


Originally, there were only 4 novellas to this series, but author Victoria Vane is now writing at least another two novellas, probably more. Contact her for details!



Disclaimer: No compensation was received for this review. eARC courtesy of Victoria Vane.

[Sophia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow! Oh, was I supposed to say more? Ah, well! Let’s see-
Diana and DeVere together was combustible caliente. I have been waiting for the final match and conclusion to their story since book one of the series. The story arc built and built with mystery and intensity through the last book to finally explode in a very erotic battle of wits to determine who would call the shots for what kind of relationship they were to have. Was it to be DeVere who only sought to sate his lust and explore this unique feeling that he only had with Diana so he could get her out of his system? Or was it to be Diana who knew what she had with DeVere, but had been left with a shattered heart that she has no desire to offer him to crush all over again?

The story opens with the return of Captain Hew and Vesta to declare they intend to marry. Diana, Ned, Phoebe and DeVere are all involved in the happy couple’s marriage arrangements. But the real passion smoldering under the surface is that of DeVere and Diana. They both have a real push-pull thing going on for different reasons and this leads to many scenes where it is a real contest of wills. My favorite scene was the horse race that held an intriguing bet attached to it. I was really hoping for a certain end result and got it.

The next part of the story is so sensual. Diana wants to bring DeVere to his knees so she decides to take a Turkish beauty trained in the erotic arts up on her offer of instruction. And whoo-boy did she score high marks with her first opportunity to show what she had learned.

The final segment begs to ask the fifty dollar question. Will they or won’t they? Will they get together or will DeVere’s hang-ups be too much?

Now, I really loved this second part and ending story. The intense battle of wills between DeVere and Diana was strong and well written. I was intrigued by the adding in of the Ottoman Empire harem culture aspect. DeVere’s past was laid bare finally for Diana to really see him in a sympathetic light and not just as a selfish man taking his empty pleasures. I only had one disappointment and it didn’t ruin the story or anything. It was the rushed feeling I got at the end of their first night in his home. I felt like I had whiplash when it went from Diana determined to finish out her stay and get away from him to protect her heart and then with no mention of a change of mind on her part, it segued to them being together in Italy under his terms (I actually scrolled back to see if I skipped a page). The ending was all I could want it to be- ah yes! I cracked up at the epilogue- ironic ending for them.

This was a hot intense read that I heartily recommend for those who love their historical romance extra spicy.

[Heather Book Savvy Babe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved this entire series by Victoria Vane. Each installment in The Devil DeVere series is a novella, but each story is fully developed, very fun to read, and leaves you wanting more. The Devil's Match is the 4th novella in the series, and wraps up the story around the Viscount DeVere himself.

The Devil's Match picks up where book two, The Virgin Huntress left off. Vesta, DeVere's god-daughter had absconded with Hew, DeVere's brother, leaving Diana thoroughly angered at DeVere for aiding her charge. DeVere is not sorry in the least for his actions and becomes determined to have Diana again, to clear her from his head. Diana is still very hurt by DeVere's leaving her and is not inclined to give into him again. However, DeVere and Diana still feel the attraction between them and their gambling natures get the better of them. The question then becomes, can DeVere overcome his insecurities and sense of honor to find his own happiness?

The Devil's Match proved to be another excellent read. This historical is full of humor, calculating characters, and smoking hot intimate scenes. Not only is The Devil's Match fun to read, but the story is touching. Through the series, there is depth added to the characters personalities and as I learned more about them, I grew more attached to them. In the first 2 books of the series, I was not much of a Diana fan. However, after book 3 (The Devil You Know), Diana's personality and mannerisms made more sense to me. Diana proved to be a much bolder person than I ever would have thought. She goes out of her comfort zone in The Devil's Match to gain more control of her life and her situations. The results are some very steamy, erotically-charged scenes.

Victoria Vane wrapped up the Devil DeVere series with The Devil's Match, but she also set the foundations for future books. I am thrilled that there will more stories stemming from this series in the future. The combination of wit, humor, and romance in this historical setting provides quality reading experiences. For historical romance fans, if you like your books on the steamier side, you can't go wrong with the Devil DeVere series. This series is meant to be read in order, the books will not make much sense story-line wise if you skip around. So, pick up book 1, A Wild Night's Bride, and start reading!