What do you think?
Rate this book
Regency Rascals #1
Julia and the Devil
Sir Lucius Gordon is down to his last sixpence and facing the debtor's gaol! He needs to marry money, but his reputation is damaged, so he needs to look outside Society for a bride. He finds one in widowed Julia Willoughby, who has her own reasons for needing a husband. She's not enthusiastic about wedding a dissolute aristocrat but her choices are limited as well. Neither Lucius nor Julia expected the heat of passion to flare between them, or to find themselves in the midst of adventures that will take them from London to Lucius's country home - and into a bout of fisticuffs in a cold and snowy field. Will trust bloom? And can love steer these mis-matched newlyweds onto the right path?
212 pages, Paperback
Published December 30, 2015
90 people are currently reading
53 people want to read
About the author
Sahara Kelly
242 books155 followersI'm really rather boring... Honestly. I live a pretty hum-drum life as a wife and mother. I shop at the local supermarket and use coupons now and again. See? Boring stuff.
I live in Virginia now, so I am learning all kinds of new things - such as being able to buy beer and wine along with bread and toothpaste. Wow!
Having been born and raised in England, I do possess a well-developed feel for the English countryside. Comes in handy for those Regency tales.
Even though I was transplanted over to the US side of the Atlantic, I still have ties to all things Brit. I bake sausage rolls and make Christmas pudding. You can take the girl out of England, but not England out of the girl, I guess.
I'm not sure anyone can write really well unless they read. A lot. I read anything and everything these days. And mostly on my couch with a book on my knees. Yes, the technology is out there for electronic versions, but there's not much to compare with a shiny new hardcover from a favorite author.
I live in Virginia now, so I am learning all kinds of new things - such as being able to buy beer and wine along with bread and toothpaste. Wow!
Having been born and raised in England, I do possess a well-developed feel for the English countryside. Comes in handy for those Regency tales.
Even though I was transplanted over to the US side of the Atlantic, I still have ties to all things Brit. I bake sausage rolls and make Christmas pudding. You can take the girl out of England, but not England out of the girl, I guess.
I'm not sure anyone can write really well unless they read. A lot. I read anything and everything these days. And mostly on my couch with a book on my knees. Yes, the technology is out there for electronic versions, but there's not much to compare with a shiny new hardcover from a favorite author.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
February 8, 2016
The language in this book was a big turn off...I lost count of the number of times the f word was used...the love between the characters was not really established and was almost unbelievable...why did they fall in love?
It was not a bad story...I just couldn't get over the vulgar language....not my kind of book....did people even use that word in this era...in public or infront of a lady?
It was not a bad story...I just couldn't get over the vulgar language....not my kind of book....did people even use that word in this era...in public or infront of a lady?
April 19, 2016
I was rather impressed by this book.
I had previously read some stories by Sahara Kelly and I liked her overall style (and her talent for sexy scenes), but her plots were... a bit lacking sometimes and at times even uninspired ("Miss Beatrice's Bottom" - don't even get me started!) Sure, those were erotica stories and a good, solid plot and believable characters and situations aren't really all that necessary, but they are appreciated. Sahara Kelly was better then some in that genre, so I generally enjoyed her books.
But this story, "Julia and the Devil" is really good. And it's truly a Regency! There still are sexy scenes, but they don't detract from the story, I believe in fact they add to it and to the characters' personalities. I quite liked Julia and Lucius and I grew fond of his valet, too! I sensed an accomplished author, sure of herself, in the writing. And the plot was logical, the situations believable. I liked that there was no insta-love, but there was almost instant attraction, which is realistic enough. The love story was satisfying and the sub-plot of who was the real heir was not melodramatic and didn't become cliché.
All in all, a light and truly enjoyable read.
PS: And I really want to know what happened to Charles!
I had previously read some stories by Sahara Kelly and I liked her overall style (and her talent for sexy scenes), but her plots were... a bit lacking sometimes and at times even uninspired ("Miss Beatrice's Bottom" - don't even get me started!) Sure, those were erotica stories and a good, solid plot and believable characters and situations aren't really all that necessary, but they are appreciated. Sahara Kelly was better then some in that genre, so I generally enjoyed her books.
But this story, "Julia and the Devil" is really good. And it's truly a Regency! There still are sexy scenes, but they don't detract from the story, I believe in fact they add to it and to the characters' personalities. I quite liked Julia and Lucius and I grew fond of his valet, too! I sensed an accomplished author, sure of herself, in the writing. And the plot was logical, the situations believable. I liked that there was no insta-love, but there was almost instant attraction, which is realistic enough. The love story was satisfying and the sub-plot of who was the real heir was not melodramatic and didn't become cliché.
All in all, a light and truly enjoyable read.
PS: And I really want to know what happened to Charles!
April 22, 2019
A rake’s reform.
Basically a good story but the side plot was based on an incorrect premise. Francis Gordon was the son of Sir Lucius grandfather and born on or about the same time as Sir Lucius. L called him a kind of cousin but, in actual fact, he would have been a half great uncle. He would have to have been born before Lucius’ father to have a chance of being the heir. He wasn’t, Sir Percival was legitimately married to L’s grandmother. They had a son, L’s father, who died before his father leaving L as the heir to the baronetcy. All that is only strengthened when it becomes clear that Francis was illegitimate.
Another point is that a baronet is never referred to as My Lord. He is not a lord.
Despite these errors the story was quite amusing although I would have liked to have seen a better description of the ball and any reactions to the gown that Julia was wearing. I would have also wished to see her take a prouder stance with the ton since she was an intelligent, strong woman!
Somewhat risqué but nowhere near the erotica that many authors trot out today.
I’ve given it 4 stars because the majority of readers will be American and will not care about plot inconsistencies such as I have outlined. 18+
Basically a good story but the side plot was based on an incorrect premise. Francis Gordon was the son of Sir Lucius grandfather and born on or about the same time as Sir Lucius. L called him a kind of cousin but, in actual fact, he would have been a half great uncle. He would have to have been born before Lucius’ father to have a chance of being the heir. He wasn’t, Sir Percival was legitimately married to L’s grandmother. They had a son, L’s father, who died before his father leaving L as the heir to the baronetcy. All that is only strengthened when it becomes clear that Francis was illegitimate.
Another point is that a baronet is never referred to as My Lord. He is not a lord.
Despite these errors the story was quite amusing although I would have liked to have seen a better description of the ball and any reactions to the gown that Julia was wearing. I would have also wished to see her take a prouder stance with the ton since she was an intelligent, strong woman!
Somewhat risqué but nowhere near the erotica that many authors trot out today.
I’ve given it 4 stars because the majority of readers will be American and will not care about plot inconsistencies such as I have outlined. 18+
July 27, 2018
I couldn't decide if I liked this book. I've read other of Sahara Kelly's books, so I knew there'd be some sex, but this book had a lot more than the others. Not that I'm a prude, but I felt she used the sex to establish the romance. Also, there's a lot of cursing, that felt out of place for the era of the novel. The liberal use of the word "fuck" by both men and women was off putting, and distracted from the story. I also couldn't figure out why the heroine fell in love with the hero. It was pretty obvious why he fell in love with her, but I felt like all she felt for him was lust.
June 7, 2021
Fun and racy!
The characters in this book are very likable. Even the villain ends up showing his good side. I like that the main characters worked together in their marriage instead of fighting all the time. They were supportive and caring toward each other even before they fell in love.
The characters in this book are very likable. Even the villain ends up showing his good side. I like that the main characters worked together in their marriage instead of fighting all the time. They were supportive and caring toward each other even before they fell in love.
November 19, 2017
Couldn't finish this. The hero was too vulgar, kept using the f word. Not romantic at all.
February 17, 2019
Pretty good
I’ve been working my way through books by this author. While this is probably my least favorite so far, it’s a solid 4 stars. She’s very talented.
I’ve been working my way through books by this author. While this is probably my least favorite so far, it’s a solid 4 stars. She’s very talented.
August 14, 2019
An enjoyable story of having to marry for money. The story of Julia and Lucius sees the rise of a great love and passion! Really good storytelling.
August 29, 2020
I enjoyed this story, a marry for money with a bit of blackmail thrown in before the passion turns into an all consuming love. I enjoyed the characters of Lucius and Julia.
April 17, 2020
Fate finds those who need them
Women in Regentcy England had to be brilliant and be able to hide it. Unless they were fortunate enough to agree to the right arranged marriage.
Women in Regentcy England had to be brilliant and be able to hide it. Unless they were fortunate enough to agree to the right arranged marriage.
January 8, 2017
The widow and the Mad Devil
This is a beautiful love story (too steamy for some of you) about Lucius "Mad Devil" Gordon, a thoroughly debauched lord on the brink of bankruptcy, and Julia Willoughby, an intelligent and independent widow who must marry for other reasons.
Lucius needs to marry for money to pay his debts and save his estate, and Julia, although without a title, has money. An agreement is reached and they are wed. Surprises are in store for the couple as each discovers the other's secrets.
If I had proofread this book, I would have corrected 24 errors.
This is a beautiful love story (too steamy for some of you) about Lucius "Mad Devil" Gordon, a thoroughly debauched lord on the brink of bankruptcy, and Julia Willoughby, an intelligent and independent widow who must marry for other reasons.
Lucius needs to marry for money to pay his debts and save his estate, and Julia, although without a title, has money. An agreement is reached and they are wed. Surprises are in store for the couple as each discovers the other's secrets.
If I had proofread this book, I would have corrected 24 errors.
January 3, 2016
I really enjoyed this book! Julia is refreshing in the world of regency romances. Being a widow, she was able to fly beneath the radar of the Ton for several years but her time has run out. Rumors are floating around that she is in charge of the family investment firm. She is, of course, but it just would not do for the Ton to know about it. Enter Sir Lucius "Mad Devil" Gordon. He is the last of his line, one with huge scandal in its past. In the face of the dishonor, Lucius decided not to do anything and wasted the family fortune on women, booze, gambling and more really expensive women. Except now, the properties are mortgaged, the furniture sold, the staff dismissed and the debtors are calling. The only solution for both of them is to marry each other. She has the money to restore the Gordon name and he will provide her a cover for her business. It will only be a marriage of convenience. That lasts only until they meet each other and then the sparks are flying.
I really enjoyed this book. It was fabulously written and I flew through the pages, needing to see how it turned out. There were several clever and unexpected twists in this book that I really didn't see coming. It was definitely a regency romance but it didn't follow the mold, making it more satisfying. From the characters to the resolution to the little details, it was wonderfully done! I also must mention that it seemed to end on a note that might be open to a second book in a series. For the record, I would definitely be open to that and would love to see how Julia and Lucius do in the future.
I really enjoyed this book. It was fabulously written and I flew through the pages, needing to see how it turned out. There were several clever and unexpected twists in this book that I really didn't see coming. It was definitely a regency romance but it didn't follow the mold, making it more satisfying. From the characters to the resolution to the little details, it was wonderfully done! I also must mention that it seemed to end on a note that might be open to a second book in a series. For the record, I would definitely be open to that and would love to see how Julia and Lucius do in the future.
January 2, 2016
I am new to this author and new to this genre of book.
I must say I loved it!!
The story takes place in the early 1800's when a man, Sir Lucius is down on his luck. Lost all his money drinking and all. Realizes that he needs to marry into money in order to not lose his home.
Julia a wealthy widow of 5 years agrees to marry Lucius so that she can keep her secret. She is a brilliant investor. She is willing to marry so that she may continue to invest but making it look like a man is doing the investing since it's frowned upon in those days having a woman so invested in the money making for the household.
He is determined to make her fall for him but not return her love.
She is determined to not fall for him and keep her marriage one of convenience.
Little do they know what is in store for them!!
I recommend this book to all 18+
:)
I must say I loved it!!
The story takes place in the early 1800's when a man, Sir Lucius is down on his luck. Lost all his money drinking and all. Realizes that he needs to marry into money in order to not lose his home.
Julia a wealthy widow of 5 years agrees to marry Lucius so that she can keep her secret. She is a brilliant investor. She is willing to marry so that she may continue to invest but making it look like a man is doing the investing since it's frowned upon in those days having a woman so invested in the money making for the household.
He is determined to make her fall for him but not return her love.
She is determined to not fall for him and keep her marriage one of convenience.
Little do they know what is in store for them!!
I recommend this book to all 18+
:)
Read
January 3, 2016I have read this author before, alone as in this book, and in combination with other authors, and I must say, she found her niche.
Julia and the Devil is about a widowed woman, a woman with money, not the least because she has a head for finances, something not expected nor accepted in England at the time of the story. Her Uncle and advisor thinks she needs to get remarried to alleviate the whispers. Also, there's a take, a drunken Lord whose sexual escapades are the talk of the town, and who has nearly drunk and debauched himself into ruin. A marriage of convenience, becomes so much more.
I really loved this book, and I think others will find it as delightful as I did.
Julia and the Devil is about a widowed woman, a woman with money, not the least because she has a head for finances, something not expected nor accepted in England at the time of the story. Her Uncle and advisor thinks she needs to get remarried to alleviate the whispers. Also, there's a take, a drunken Lord whose sexual escapades are the talk of the town, and who has nearly drunk and debauched himself into ruin. A marriage of convenience, becomes so much more.
I really loved this book, and I think others will find it as delightful as I did.
January 2, 2016
Julia is a rich widowed woman who has to marry a rake to keep her business mind a secret. With a mind for business and a quick wit to go with it. She hopes that she can keep herself in check while around Sir Lucius.
Sir Lucius was a rich aristocratic of the ton but with a gambling and drinking problem he is down on his luck. And has no choice to marry a woman beneath his status, who is rich in her own way.
Will they be able to find love together in a kinda forced marriage business arrangement? Or will they grow apart and hate each other for what they have done to the other?
Sir Lucius was a rich aristocratic of the ton but with a gambling and drinking problem he is down on his luck. And has no choice to marry a woman beneath his status, who is rich in her own way.
Will they be able to find love together in a kinda forced marriage business arrangement? Or will they grow apart and hate each other for what they have done to the other?
January 3, 2016
It is a very good read.. some parts were alittle bit slower for me but then it would turn around in the next page and surprise me. I enjoyed the characters.. they made me laugh, and made me sad.. they made me feel with them. The author's writing was very good.. i felt as if i was transported into the book with the characters and really enjoyed it all. I am so glad I got to review it
January 21, 2016
Truly enjoyable book
I really enjoyed reading this book. It has great characters, wonderful, intelligent and funny dialogue and a good plot. I found myself laughing aloud more than once. Love scenes are sizzling and the romance is sweet and sensual. Absolutely recommend this very highly.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It has great characters, wonderful, intelligent and funny dialogue and a good plot. I found myself laughing aloud more than once. Love scenes are sizzling and the romance is sweet and sensual. Absolutely recommend this very highly.
July 24, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It has a titled hero with no money, a heroine with money but from the middle class. Their marriage is an arranged one and they find that it can be so much more. Lucius had to find a way to survive his past, and Julia is strong enough to help him.
I received a copy of this story from Candid Book Reviews in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this story from Candid Book Reviews in exchange for an honest review.
September 25, 2016
And a Devil of a good time!
Oh such fun! I've been enjoying reading this series of books by Ms. Kelly very much! Even if I managed to read the first book last. LoL!! Julia and the now reformed Devil Lucius are wonderful characters. Totally enjoyable series. Each one was simply great to read. I would highly recommend them all!!
Oh such fun! I've been enjoying reading this series of books by Ms. Kelly very much! Even if I managed to read the first book last. LoL!! Julia and the now reformed Devil Lucius are wonderful characters. Totally enjoyable series. Each one was simply great to read. I would highly recommend them all!!
January 13, 2016
Great book
I really enjoyed this book. The characters are interesting and I felt the story was entertaining. It kept me turning the pages. I would like to read the next book in the series.
I really enjoyed this book. The characters are interesting and I felt the story was entertaining. It kept me turning the pages. I would like to read the next book in the series.
January 6, 2017
Super read. Enjoyable!
4*
4*
April 17, 2017
Julia and the Devil is a novel that is set back in the 1800s. I have always loved reading books that are set in this time period, and this is no exception. I loved how everything prim and proper turns into steamy romance.
Julia and Lucius were thrown together in a marriage out of necessity. Julia needed Lucius for his title and a husband to keep up the facade that Danforth Investments was not run by a woman. That type of thing was not viewed as proper. Lucius needed Julia for her money. He almost bankrupted himself by drinking and gambling all his money away. They have a long, hard road ahead quelching rumors and paying debts, but little did they know that this joining could be more than just an arrangement.
I loved this book. I think the story was fantastic and it was extremely well written. The characters were fantastic. I really recommend this book.
Julia and Lucius were thrown together in a marriage out of necessity. Julia needed Lucius for his title and a husband to keep up the facade that Danforth Investments was not run by a woman. That type of thing was not viewed as proper. Lucius needed Julia for her money. He almost bankrupted himself by drinking and gambling all his money away. They have a long, hard road ahead quelching rumors and paying debts, but little did they know that this joining could be more than just an arrangement.
I loved this book. I think the story was fantastic and it was extremely well written. The characters were fantastic. I really recommend this book.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews