Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

The Devil's Kiss #3

The Devil's Wife

Rate this book
No one claims marriage is easy. That is especially true for Kayla Sutton, because she's married to a sadist who takes the meaning of the word "dominance" to new heights.

But Kayla should have known. She fell for his wicked ways after he blackmailed her, stayed after he kidnapped her, went back to him after he almost destroyed them both with his unpredictable fury.

Then she married him.

A year has passed since Kayla agreed to love, honor, and obey. Day after day, she survives his volatile nature. On her knees at his feet, underneath him between the sheets, bent over the bed to receive the fiery lash of his belt. But she's beginning to miss the one thing she promised Gage Channing when she married him: her freedom.

NOTE TO READERS: The Devil's Wife is a dark romance with a BDSM edge that does NOT conform to safe, sane, and consensual practices. Includes explicit content and subject matter that may offend some readers. Intended for mature audiences. Please begin with The Devil's Kiss and The Devil's Claim before reading The Devil's Wife.

220 pages, ebook

First published January 1, 2016

332 people are currently reading
1207 people want to read

About the author

Gemma James

60 books2,572 followers
Gemma James is a USA Today bestselling author of sexy contemporary and dark romance. She loves to explore the darker side of human nature in her fiction, and she’s morbidly curious about anything dark and edgy, from deviant seduction to fascinating villains. Readers have described her stories as being “not for the faint of heart.”

She warns you to heed their words! Her playground isn’t full of rainbows and kittens, though she loves both. She lives in Oregon with her husband and children, a gaggle of animals, and bipolar weather.

Like her on Facebook or sign up for her newsletter so you don't miss out on future releases!

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
487 (34%)
4 stars
421 (29%)
3 stars
295 (20%)
2 stars
118 (8%)
1 star
99 (6%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
Profile Image for Ms reads a lot.
498 reviews
October 16, 2021
This had everything that I HATE in books:
- OM/OW drama
- love triangle
- needless angst
- too much internal monologue
- cheating

I thought we were done with that BS when Gage and Kayla got married, but NOPE! It was back to the same bullshit, but this time it was worse because the OM/OW/cheating drama was literally the entire plot of this book.

The only saving Grace in this books was Gage. I like him enough to read the next, and final book in this story.
Profile Image for Natalie  ~ The Biblioholic.
2,713 reviews1,419 followers
December 25, 2016
By now, most of you are familiar with the fact that I'll be ranting about this book/series, not dissecting the plot. I'm going purely off emotion and I don't care. I absolutely love and respect the writing of this series because it has drawn strong feelings out of me!

I pitied Kayla and I hate to pity anyone. I don't mind offering sympathy to people because life can be tragic sometimes and there are circumstances beyond our control. I can even be empathetic regarding certain situations that I've lived through. But when I start to pity the fool?! That's when you know it's a sad state of affairs.
"I've spent more time on my knees than at your side." ~ Kayla to Gage

She makes that statement and still does nothing to improve her station in life. Her weak attempts at rebellion were weak and pathetic, especially because soon after she was all "Yes Master" and "Punish me, Master". Not to be too belittling, but her life, to me, was a joke and the only one allowed to laugh was Gage.

I get that I don't understand the dynamic of their relationship and I accept that. I'm sure many people read and appreciated the outright wrongness of what they shared. However, I wish that I could see more of the so-called love that is spoken of so freely. Words are great but in the end they're just words. I'm looking for a convincing tender moment, not one that Kayla and her psychosis feel is tender (when it so isn't). I get that Gage is a sadist, but he does have those moments when he is just a man and I cannot accept the fact that he refuses to treat Kayla as a woman, a human being deserving of so much more than what he is offering. I'm annoyed by how easily she allows him to quash her discontent. I'm irritated with the way that she tries to rationalize the irrational.

When all is said and done though... I freaking love this series!! I know... how could I when I feel this way? But it's because it's making me feel that I'm enjoying it so much. I'm ready to read the conclusion!

*Copy generously provided in exchange for an honest review*

Release Date: April 22,2016
Genre: Erotica
POV: Heroine - 1st person
Steam: 5 out of 5
Series or Standalone: Book 3 of the Devil's Kiss series
Profile Image for Kira.
1,292 reviews139 followers
May 31, 2017
DNF @33%

The first two books were so good. This doesn't have the same feel to it. It's drama for the sake of drama. Gage and Kayla are two screwed up people. Drama doesn't need to be manufactured to create issues for them. They have enough already. Kayla has become whiny. Her life sucks but it is the one she chose. Why is she a slave to her own sexual desires? Just because a guy is good in bed doesn't mean your brain stops functioning when he's in the room, but apparently that's how it is with her, which is why she's in this situation. I'm annoyed the potential love triangle with Ian is still being dragged out. After learning about the situation with Katherine I'm done.
95 reviews2 followers
June 17, 2016
This isnt erotic, its flat out abuse and sickness

Be warned this trash shouldn't even be in the romance genre, not dark bdsm either. I have read dark but this is just abusive beyond sadistic. The fact that this author tries to pass this perversive plot as romance is lie. This was the worst story I have read. Gage does not love his wife, never did. He admits he stole her from his brother (probably for revenge), locks her in a cage for MONTHS, doesn't tell her if Ian lives or dies and then acts like he is going to have sex with another woman (that she hates) in front of her while she is tied up. Yep. Spoiler for all the readers who might be fooled from the ratings saying this is even worth the read. Don't be fooled! I promise you there is nothing and I honestly mean nothing redeeming, romantic,loving or human about Gage. It isn't one of those stories where there is pain and pleasure, he literally treats her like a slave! She is a bad pArent for how she allows herself to be whipped and hurt as punishment and locked in a cage. The h is also beyond redemption for allowing hot s*x to make her stay in this abusive relationship that she admits she doesn't want to be in.
What did she see in Gage besides money?! She is a slave to him and she allows it. This author really needs to do ome research about Dom/sub relationships. Obviously a sub would not hate the things he does it would make her happy to do them not resentful. Gage doesn't care for her after he punishes her and he certainly doesn't cherish her submission. He forces it and she is the most irritating character I have ever read. This is just a sick story passed off as dark romance! Getting a refund!
Profile Image for Debra Johnson.
11k reviews179 followers
July 12, 2025
Purch Amazon March 9, 2018
The Devil's Wife by Gemma James
Genres; Adult, Dark Erotica, Romance, Suspense
4.75 Stars

I liked this one much more than book #2.

Kayla was a mess in that one and I almost gave up on this series. I'm glad I didn't.
This one was oh so much better.

Kayla is growing and becoming much stronger as she begins to accept herself. It is mentally and emotionally painful as she starts to mature and open her mind.

Yes, Gage is a sadist, but Kayla is his perfect partner.

She actually becomes strong enough to hold her own against Gage and turn the tables on him a bit.

“You’ve learned too fucking much from me.”

Payback time in the bedroom!

I lost respect for Kayla's character in book 2. She redeemed herself in this book.

Ms. James definitely knows how to write Hot, Steamy, Naughty, Mind Blowing, Down-&-Dirty Adult sex scenes.

There was one section where it looked like Kayla was losing her courage that irritated me. I also found 1 typo. Other than that I can't think of any negatives.

The story and writing flowed smooth and I was at the end before I knew it. I went straight to book 4 without a pause. Without stopping to write this review.
I may have not breathed for a minute or two. I was that eager to get to book 4.

I highly recommend these books to lovers of Dark Erotica.
Just make sure you can take it.
Ms. Gemma James does not hold back on these books.

They Are Dark & Twisted.
Profile Image for EpicRomanceReviews.
768 reviews142 followers
January 4, 2017
"Nothing can break you, not even me. You’re my miracle.”

OBSESSIVE LOVE. DECEPTION. JEALOUSY. UNBRIDLED PASSION. SUFFOCATING CONTROL. HEARTACHE. THE CATASTROPHIC QUEST FOR FREEDOM.... These are the intertwining themes of the third deliciously twisted installment in the Devil's Kiss series by dark romance goddess Gemma James!

THE DEVIL'S WIFE opens nearly a year into the marriage of Gage and his beloved wife, Kayla. They are on the threshold of celebrating their first wedding anniversary, are as CRAZY-IN-LOVE as ever, and have settled into their warped version of domestic bliss. They have built a devoted family’s unit with Kayla's sweet daughter Eve. Gage would lay down his life for them both but his UNRELENTING need for total control over every aspect of Kayla's life--and complete ownership of her heart, body and soul--is beginning to whittle away at her psyche, have her questioning the sanctity of their marriage, filling her with rising panic that submitting to Gage comes at the ultimate cost-- forfeiting every single ounce of her own identity.

"I realized how harrowing our lives had become. But maybe that was the cost of harboring such intense passion. We felt things deeply. Loved with depth, lusted with insanity, angered with the burn of an inferno, hurt with the force of a blast. We were both a little insane."

She knows deep does in her marrow that no one has the ability to bring her to the throes of ecstasy, to quench her secret, dark forbidden desires, or make her feel as cherished and protected and loved as Gage.

"He was the center of my solar system, the God of my gravity, the devil of my desire. The Master of my mind."

But he is also the one man on earth who can crush her heart, obliterate her soul, HURT her, and bring her to the depth of agony and despair. As shattering revelations come to light, eroding their seemingly impenetrable bond, reigniting old jealousies, testing their faith, the roiling tension between them reaches a BOILING POINT!!!!! Driving Kayla nearly to the brink with the need to reclaim a piece of herself, while her rebellion incites a desperate Gage to lock his manacles even tighter around his wayward bride.

"Like a flash going off behind my eyes, it all became devastatingly clear. Control. It would always whittle down to his thirst for complete control over every aspect of his life, and now mine."

The notion of forever being at her master's cruel mercy, always subjected to his no-holds-barred brand of obsessive love and sadistic punishments, causes her to flirt with the temptation to do the unthinkable: resort to secrets and lies to get a tiny tantalizing taste of freedom! But one taste of liberation can never be enough and in the Devil’s severely regimented world, disobedience NEVER goes unpunished!! When a tragic turn of events causes Kayla to commit the ultimate sin, will it blow their entire world to smithereens, or help them build a new foundation of love and trust??

Holy hell! The EXCRUCIATING feels! The BLAZING passion!! The torturous, yet undeniably SCINTILLATING merry go round of pleasure/pain. Gemma James BESTED herself in this enthralling third book!! It was mind-blowing intense and heartbreaking and so scorching hot it melted my kindle and brought me to my knees!! Once again, I was helplessly swept up in Gage and Kayla's deliciously dysfunctional worlds but just as their love reached extraordinary heights so did my hopeless addiction for this couple. Their fierce battle of wills is as toxic as ever but at its core is an all-consuming love that CANNOT BE CONTAINED.

And OMFG Gage! Gah! I have stark, raving MAD love for him! This roguishly handsome, wickedly depraved devil makes me quiver uncontrollably and will forever reside in my heart!!! He’s sadistic, controlling, domineering, possessive, and INSANELY jealous. But he's also incredibly loyal, oh-so passionate and exquisitely tender.

"It was those sparks of gentleness, of compassion, that kept me forever under his spell."

Yes, Gage commands COMPLETE submission, but in return he offers her his heart on a silver platter.

“You'll also get me, Kayla. Every part of me. You have my f*king soul.”

As always, this couple’s chemistry is so raw and palpable throughout, throbbing with so much heat and bristling emotion, it is almost unbearable at times. Interestingly enough, I got much more frustrated with Kayla in this book than I did with Gage. (#TEAMDEVIL all the way!!!!!) She knew what she signed up for when she breathlessly said "I do" so how DARE she change the rules of the game now?

Although a part of me empathized with her impossible predicament--she's unexpectedly caught between loyalty to a past love and her insatiable desire for her husband --her choices were beyond foolish and in many ways just as heartless and cruel as the atrocities Gage committed against her. Repairing what was broken would not come without a world of pain, and I think in this case she reaped what she sowed!!

Gage is a true tortured soul, in many ways damaged beyond repair, yet on the flip side he loves SO DEEPLY that I positively ACHED when the full devastating impact of his beloved's soul-shattering betrayal came to light. We finally see cracks in his steely armor, and come to see that inside that ice cold persona lurks a flesh and blood man who is far from infallible. But never in her worst nightmares did Kayla ever imagine she alone had the power to break the seemingly invincible master who wielded such formidable power over her life…or that the fateful decisions she makes throughout the novel can end up destroying them both.

"Gage had a heart—fragile and infested with love for me. I’d stomped on it by not giving him all of mine."

This couple faces a pivotal juncture in this third novel and it is perhaps the classic case of can't live with each other but can't live without each other either. Now the big question is whether their marriage can survive the ULTIMATE test. Does the formidable dark lord, who slays his enemies with a mere laser-sharp look, have the capacity to loosen his suffocating bonds, and more importantly, can he forgive the unforgivable? But atonement does not come without a price. And a severe penance must be paid. Can Kayla, who had proven to have a backbone of steel muster the inner resilience to face up to the dire consequences of her actions at her master's iron hand???? Or will she finally find the resolve to break free from him forever?

Umm...not saying! Just brace yourself for the WRATH of the devil, prepare to shed many anguished tears, and, of course, bask in the sheer bliss of this spectacularly dark and twisted and oh so titillating journey that I never want to see come to an end!!!

5+ THE DEVIL SLAYS MY SOUL STARS!
Profile Image for Renee.
5,193 reviews73 followers
December 26, 2016
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

The Devils Wife is the third book in Gemma James Devils Kiss Series.You must read the first two books enforce the Devils Wife.

Kayla Sutton is married to a sadist. Gage takes the word dominance to a whole other level. She should have realized thought since he kidnapped her and forced his way into her life. When he almost destroyed both of them she still went back to him. Then she married him. Now almost a year has passed. A year on her knees at his feet and bent over to take the lashes of his belt. Now though she's beginning to miss her freedom.. Her free will. That's just so going to be a huge problem for them both.

Good grief I have never hated a character so much in my entire life. Gage Channing is a horrible soulless monster. I've read a lot of BDSM books. A lot of dark books, their about my most favorite books to read. With that said Gage is just not a redeemable character in my eyes and I question Kayla's sanity at this point. He can do what he told her not to? He controls her every move and she melts when he gets a certain look in his eyes. I so badly wanted her to have a back bone. To stand up for herself and her daughter. Grow a pair woman!!! I kept thinking and a whole lot of oh no he didn't. I get it. She loves him. I've been in love and would do anything for that person but a person shouldn't be treated like a non human being. This book made me mad but I sat right here and read every single word in a matter of hours. I'll dive into the Devils Spawn the second I finish this review so how could I not give it five stars. I'm not happy about it but I also know what a good book is and how it affects me when I read it.
Profile Image for Becky Rendon.
3,855 reviews81 followers
December 23, 2016
What a mess!

Kayla is being stifled by her choice. Freedom screams in her ears but she is held back by her reality. Fear keeps her in line but hope strangled her. Their love isn't traditional and lately it seems to be diminishing.

As she's slowly being choked by all of the thoughts swirling in her head, Kayla makes a choice that will change everything.

This series has me so intrigued. Most have the hero changing in a more drastic way but Gage doesn't. He can't it's the core of his being. Yes he's growing but he's still a sadistic bast@rd. Their love is intense and something that just can't be described. I can't wait to see what Spawn brings...

reviewed for the Sweet Spot Sisterhood
Profile Image for Rhonda.
1,276 reviews4 followers
September 19, 2018
This was 100% my least favorite book of the series... Kayla drove me nuts...she either needed to believe and trust or leave... the constant battle, back and forth wishy washy crap drove me nuts the whole book! And seriously Gage needs to get rid of Kathryn doesn’t he get that she is causing so much unneeded drama!
Profile Image for Mandy Desay.
266 reviews12 followers
March 6, 2017
The Devil's Kiss Series Bundle by Gemma James

The Boxset included:
The Devil's Kiss
The Devil's Claim
The Devil's Wife
The Devil's Spawn

Kayla will do anything to save her daughter Eve. Kayla is desperate to get her hands on the money for Eve's treatment no matter what the cost, When she steals the money from her boss, Gage Channing, she never saw the deal he would offer to keep her out of jail. He would keep paying Eve's medical bills and she was to become his slave. Agreeing, Kayla never expected just what she was getting herself into.

This was a great read in my opinion, it is a very dark read with heavy and harrowing BDSM scenes. But be warned it deals with consensual and sometimes non consensual acts so this is not for the faint hearted. Gage Channing makes Christian Grey look like a pussy-cat.

I'm a big fan of Dark Erotica, and this didn't disappoint, it was my first Gemma James read but it won't be my last. There are tender moments, but it is very gritty, raw and emotional and harrowing. The perfect read for Dark lovers but don't say I didn't warn you.
Profile Image for Marie Vasquez.
1,598 reviews78 followers
February 7, 2017
review logo

This series is so damn good. Kayla has bound herself to the one man she never expected. She's made her choice. Gage, despite all his sadistic behavior, has won her heart. He's good to her daughter and for the most part, he's good to Kayla. But his control issues are as present as ever and each day, that control makes it so hard to keep that love she has for him.

Being the strong woman she is, she tests those rules every chance she gets because she's determined to get a win on her side. She loves the man...deeply, but he makes it darn difficult.

I just can't get enough of these characters. I can't decide how I feel about them. I'm in awe of Kayla's fortitude but am puzzled by her decision to put up with everything she must go through. I'm in love with Gage when that small part of him shows soft side and I hate him more when he turns into the Mr. Hyde that can make an appearance at the drop of a hat. This is truly a fascinating story and I just LOVE it!


Profile Image for Michelle.
2,082 reviews895 followers
May 15, 2016
I am trying to sort out of if I’m just a sap or if I’m just fucked up. I had tears. Motherfuckingtears.

We’ve all come to terms with our love/hate relationship with Gage. But it doesn’t seem that he’s made too many changes to himself as he entered the marriage with Kayla. But nearly a year into their marriage, the constant control and punishment is wearing on Kayla. As she becomes more and more restless, Kayla has to battle between her emotions, freedom or love that comes with weekly beatings and built in dungeon?

Okay. So Gage is an asshole. We know this and we all sort of love him for it. We know that he is loving Kayla in the only way he really knows how. We know that it’s not easy – we know that. It was accepted. But watching Kayla waiver and Gage be emotionally affected was heartbreaking. Until a particular moment, then I hated Gage again (just for like a paragraph.... but I saw red).

For those reading this book, it’s obvious you are already a fan of this series – it’s not an easy read for those that have limits – but for those that are checking out reviews, thinking about starting this series – I say go for it. It is not easy to like or love Gage. You have to be able to allow the story to fully play out before drawing conclusions.

I loved this ending to the series!
Profile Image for Expresso.
876 reviews138 followers
April 24, 2016
OHMYFREAKING good googlymoogly! Five freaking fantastic "somebody please help me read slower because I don't want this story to end in this lifetime" stars!

Gage is beyond perfection. Kayla is the perfect wife. The perfect submissive. Well....almost. Something isn't wired right in her head but she is perfect for this series. Kayla's insecurities and inability to stay focused and on the right path tipped the drama jar into oblivion!

Gage is not without his drama however! His secret once revealed is a doozy! Oh yeah this story is syrup on the pancakes! Sweet and thick! You need the knife and fork to waddle though this deliciousness!

Gahhhhhhhhh this story is by far my fave in the series! You gotta read the series in order though because if you don't, you'll miss pertinent information that is detrimental to the drama jar and your sanity! Trust me......this entire series is A freaking 1!
Profile Image for Cécile Smits .
1,460 reviews287 followers
January 22, 2018
The problem being married to a sadist like Gage,is that Kayla lives her life in fear of failing him. And what kind of punishment that failure would bring. But she wouldn’t trade it for anything....If she didn’t love him so much,and he didn’t love her and her daughter as much as he did.....she would be lost. Gemma showed me what happens after the vows of forever,what a couple like this needs to make a marriage work and how to overcome obstacles. Now i want to find out what happens in The Devil’s Spawn!
Profile Image for Rachael.
2,279 reviews10 followers
April 24, 2021
Out of all of the books in this series, this one was the best for me. I thought it was really cool to see Kayla grapple with how much she’s willing to submit and really ask herself some of the questions I’ve been asking since book 1! Gage’s character has definitely grown since the last two books as well and he’s marginally more pleasant to deal with reading about.
Profile Image for Tabatha Reed.
1,687 reviews196 followers
May 9, 2020
The Katherine stuff was too much for me.
Profile Image for Judy Lewis.
1,566 reviews55 followers
June 23, 2016
DELICIOUSLY DARK AND SINFULLY WICKED !!!
Title: The Devil's Wife
Series: The Devil's Kiss
Designation: Book Three of Serial, Not A Standalone, HFN
Author: Gemma James
My Rating: FIVE SINFULLY WICKED STARS ****
***Content Warning: I would like to preface my review by saying, if you have sexual triggers and object to explicit adult content and disturbing subject matter including bondage, domination, sadism, masochism, extreme acts of punishment, nonconsensual sex and rape, this is probably NOT the series for you. However, although the author does give the reader a very realistic accounting of the subject matter, it's written tactfully, skillfully and exquisitely. Make no mistake, this is a deliciously dark and sinfully wicked erotic romance with elements of suspense and multiple plot twists that will both shock you and leave you breathless. And I loved every single minute. Also, please be aware, this is a one hundred sixty page story that is the third release in The Devil's Kiss Serial. It is not a standalone read. The Devil's Kiss and The Devil's Claim should be read before reading The Devil's Wife. Although the author does leave several questions unanswered, the book does conclude with a happy for now ending..And this well may be what the author intended since it leaves the door wide open for another book in the series. And if there is, I'll be the first in line to purchase it!!!

After reading the first book of this series, I was somewhat conflicted about the rating. But after reading the entire series which to date consists of three books, The Devil's Kiss(Book One), The Devil's Claim(Book Two) and The Devil's Wife(Book Three), I'm totally smitten! Having never read anything written by Gemma James, I had no idea what to expect, but I've always been a real sucker for a freebie. I'm a voracious reader and there's nothing I enjoy more than discovering a great new author. So after reading the blurb and free sample, I was very intrigued and decided since the book was offered as a free download by Amazon, I would give it a whirl. And I'm so glad I did. James is a skilled wordsmith and a remarkably gifted storyteller as evidenced by the fact that I not only read the first free book, but quickly raced back to Amazon to purchase the second and third. I found some of the content rather disturbing but I will concede, it's very realistically portrayed. I was immediately drawn into this story by the two protagonists, Kayla Sutton and Gage Channing. These two characters were absolutely fascinating, completely mesmerizing and played off each other brilliantly. Wealthy businessman, Gage Channing is a sadist in the truest sense of the word, deriving sexual pleasure from the pain and punishment of others and more specifically, Kayla Sutton, his personal assistant. The cast includes several other intriguing characters, all of whom are pivotal to the story. These characters are dark, complex and engaging but the author does an exceptional job of building and developing each player perfectly through the book. And just when you think you have an understanding of each character and their nature - WHAM - the author blows your mind with another revelation. I was glued to my seat, gasping for my next breath with my heart hammering in my chest, and turning the pages so fast, my Kindle couldn't keep up! I hated it...I loved it...I abhorred it...I was enthralled by it...I was sickened by it...I was fascinated by it. I wanted to throw my Kindle against the wall....but couldn't stop reading it! But please allow me to make something perfectly clear, this is not erotica but so much more. It is a divinely dark erotic romance with a hypnotic underlying story of heartache and pain featuring a very complex and psychologically damaged cast of players. They are quite simply magnificent. The story is enthralling, spellbinding, addictive, suspenseful and erotic. The dialogue is shocking, raw, seductive, exceptionally well executed and flows effortlessly. The entire narrative is beautifully written in the first person from the perspective of Kayla Sutton, a beautiful twenty eight year old divorcee and single mother with a very painful and troubled past who has a three year old daughter named Eve suffering from a life threatening illness. All the traditional treatments have failed and Eve is in desperate need of a costly experimental treatment not covered by insurance which forces Kayla to resort to the theft of company funds in order to pay for her daughter's treatment expenses. Her crime is discovered by her boss, Gage Channing, owner of Channing Enterprises. Gage confronts Kayla with evidence of her crime but rather than report her to the police, he offers her a deal...sign a six week contract to become his sexual slave or go to jail. In Gage Channing's eyes, he's offering Kayla a deal, a choice, but in reality he's a sadistic master manipulator who has been searching for a way to blackmail Kayla into becoming his willing submissive and sex slave. And not just because she's beautiful. Initially, there are other, darker motivations at play which are slowly revealed over the course of the series. In the first book, we see Gage arrange and finance the much needed experimental treatment for Kayla's daughter which thankfully, is successful thereby saving her daughter's life. Gage's contract of convenience and Kayla's forced submission immediately become so much more. Neither Kayla nor Gage expected to be completely drawn in by their explosive yet undeniable attraction to each other and neither planned to ever fall in love. Although both try desperately to ignore the truth, its outcome is inevitable. When Kayla's ex-husband returns and places her life at jeopardy, Gage risks his own life to save her and her daughter, Eve. Gage is shot during the struggle and while fighting to live, Kayla sees this as her opportunity to escape her life and Gage. She takes her daughter, packs their meager belongings and just starts driving. She ends up in Texas where she begins a new life with her daughter. At the beginning of the second book, Dr Ian Kaplan, Kayla's former college friend as well as lover and Gage's estranged brother(shocker!), travels to Texas in an attempt to reclaim her heart. Unfortunately, Gage finally finds her by following Ian, and is more determined than ever to possess Kayla for himself. The word no does not exist in Gage Channing's world. He kidnaps Kayla and her daughter and returns them both to his home where he holds Kayla prisoner. But Gage now wants more than a sex slave to punish, he wants Kayla forever as his wife. Kayla eventually surrenders to Gage's coercion and consents to marry him but trouble is always on the horizon for these two deeply troubled souls who seem to feed off each other's darkness. Unfortunately, there are others who have a vested interest in seeing their relationship fail and sadly, are willing to do whatever it takes to tear them apart. But the efforts of others pale in comparison to the destructive effect of Kayla's self recriminations and Gage's possessiveness, toxic temperament, sadism and need for control. Is it possible to fall in love with someone you hate? Is it conceivable that the need for revenge can lead to an all consuming love, one you can't live without? And is it imaginable to truly love someone yet desire to punish and hurt them? Yes, yes and yes, in this story it is, but nothing in this story is as it seems. There is so much more at play that is carefully, masterfully and skillfully revealed over the course of the series. And OMG! I could not stop reading it! I cried! I sobbed! I screamed profanities and shook my fists in anger! And several times, I wanted to throttle the characters and throw my Kindle at the wall but isn't that what entertainment actually is? Engaging with the characters, empathizing with them and becoming so caught up in the story itself that you completely lose track of time? That's exactly what happened to me as I read this story. So in reviewing this book, I ask myself, what did I love about this story? Pretty much everything, even the parts that were hard to read! What didn't I like? Again, some of the scenes were almost too painful to read but I couldn't stop, I had to continue. I had to know what happened! I would really liked to have known Ian's fate but could care less about Katherine. As far as I'm concerned, she can take a short walk off a long pier. Just kidding! Would I recommend this book? You bet and I am but only to adult readers! Will I read this author again? Absolutely! As I said, I've already purchased the second and third books. And I'm sure I'll be reading many more books from this author in the future! Fabulous entertainment and an awesome read!

***I'm not a professional reviewer but I do know what I like, what love and what I don't and I loved this story. And if I truly love a story, I give it five stars. This is only my humble opinion which is based not only on my enjoyment of this book but also on its exceptional presentation and craftsmanship.
Profile Image for Amanda.
151 reviews1 follower
July 7, 2024
I should have stopped at book 2. At this point I was mostly just reading this in stunned disbelief and hoping for a redemption arc that I was pretty sure wasn’t coming…

The author does state that The Devil’s Kiss series is a dark romance with a BDSM edge that does not conform to safe, sane, and consensual practices. And it so fucking doesn’t.

Marry me or I won’t let you see your child. Kept prisoner in his home. Hard limits? Those are obliterated and used as punishments. And then just when I thought it couldn’t get more fucked to, the author said ‘hold my beer’ and we get the scene with Kayla’s first love from college who also turned out to be the mmc’s brother. Kayla cheated and normally I would never justify or follow that behaviour up with a but - BUT the way Gage punishes Kayla is so beyond words. This woman doesn’t love him. She’s broken. She’s been psychologically groomed into believing this is love and that she couldn’t possibly survive without his twisted sadist ways. Gage is a sadist but Kayla is not a true masochist. She endures the pain because she loves him. But he acts loving towards her daughter and says he loves her so I guess it’s all okay? (It’s not okay)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Marzia.
212 reviews27 followers
December 23, 2021
Unnecessary drama to keep the story going imo. However, i did like it when Kayla made Gage submit to her for a change lol. It was hilarious.
I also pretty much disliked Gage throughout the whole book. Ik he'supposed to be this way but some things just pissed me off. At least the books are short so i didn't have suffer through his behavior much.

“I’m in charge,” I reminded him. “You don’t get to shove your cock into my mouth. You’ll get what I give you when I give it to you.”

“You’ve learned too fucking much from me.”

“You’re the best teacher, Gage. Just think of all the things I’ll pick up before our next anniversary.”


“You don’t need to be fixed. You just need to be loved.”

“Kayla, I need to be fucked. Stop toying with me.”
May 29, 2024
yh my ass lying I did not finish this book in 1 day because all the sex scenes in acc getting TIREDDD of it but at least there was low-key plot this book and Kayla is still dumb,Katherine is and forever will be the biggest bitch EVERRRR, Ian is dead, (I know his ass Alive somewhere) and gage apparently ‘learned to love again’ which we all know is a lie, and overall part from eve all these nggas are FUCKED UPP!!!
Profile Image for Dawnreya.
165 reviews9 followers
May 19, 2023
This book made me angry and triggered. I understand what the author was trying to accomplish but some of the actions of the MC had me cursing up a storm. I didn’t the like the one sidedness of the book but it was a train wreck I couldn’t stop reading. Smh. On to the last book, hoping it gets better.
668 reviews5 followers
December 30, 2016
"He was the center of my solar system, the God of my gravity, the devil of my desire. The Master of my mind. He was the dean of my discipline."

With each book, I fall even harder for Gage Channing and THE DEVIL'S WIFE was no exception!!!! Gemma James has quickly become one of my favourite dark romance writers with her fast paced, highly additive narrative! Her books always consume me and leave me NEEDING MORE!!!! Gage is PERFECT with a capital P!! Despite his need for control and punishments, I absolutely LOVED that he was SOOO very much in love with Kayla. He was devoted, loyal and would do anything for her. And his love for Eve had my ovaries exploding and heart fluttering!!! As for Kayla, well she drove me crazy throughout this book with her insecurities and lies. I wanted to grab her by the shoulders, and shake some sense into her!! I wanted to scream at her!! Let's just say I was all for the final punishments she received!!!!! This was another fanfreakingtastic addition to the much loved series and I can't wait for the next book!!!! 5+ lock me in the dungeon stars!!!!
Profile Image for Rough Draft Book Blog.
475 reviews53 followers
May 2, 2016
The Devil's Wife by Gemma James
Gage & Kayla
HOLY FUCKING HELL!!
5 Stars

So, this one blew my fucking mind! It's taken me this long to write this review! I thought I might fucking smash something if I had to talk about Gage to early! Gemma, girl... you really outdid yourself with this one! You have captured a total asshole alpha in all his splendor! I can hardly believe it, but this book actually made my blood pressure go up! Wow!

Gage Channing is an egotistical asshole with a major control issue. I have never been so fucking pissed off at a character in all my life! He's mean, he's selfish, he's offensive, he's condescending, and he's just enough alpha and sexiness to wipe all that spitefulness away. How Gemma still manages to make me attracted to this fuck, I'll never know! I want to grab hold of his lapel, rip his mug up to mine, and scream in his fucking face until he agrees to be kind to Kayla. Jaysus Fekking Croist!!!

Kayla is a fucking doormat. A well-dressed doormat, but a doormat all the same. I loved her for the way she handled Gage in some circumstances and I hated her for the times she folded when I know she could have prevailed. She always has that power, but very rarely uses it. This in itself drove me bat-shit crazy! So, I'll leave you with this... I loved to hate her!

The supporting character cast was very small... Ian... God, Ian... what to say! I love him and I wish I knew more about what became of him. Is he ok? Is he alive? My heart can't take much more of this! Katherine! You gotta be fist fucking me here! This would have been the straw that broke the camels back for me... Total jaw dropping moment! Simone is a great friend of Kayla's but I'm afraid doesn't do enough for her. I know there's only so much she CAN do, but jeeze... I think she could have done more, but that's just me!

So, what can I say! This story has been so compelling since the first installment that once I pick it up, I can't put it down. The characters are very commanding and heartbreaking, but sometimes make me see red! The dialogue flows and feels natural and makes the hair on the back of my neck stand up! The entire book had me on the edge of my seat, constantly waiting for the other shoe to drop. It's has plenty of plot twists and turns and keeps you engaged from cover to cover.
Profile Image for Rachel Hill.
853 reviews36 followers
August 13, 2016
I freaking loved The Devil's Kiss...Ok, I've absolutely LOVED this entire series and Gemma James knows it. She hit me up and asked me if I wanted to look this over, make sure I didn't see any mistakes, nothing glaringly obvious...Like I'd tell her no. Huh, she knows Gage Channing is my ultimate book boyfriend. Not to mention, Gemma delivers dark, devious, twisted tales that I loved to get wrapped up in.
This isn't as dark, but there's twists and devious, that's for sure...and I guess dark is dependent upon our own emotions...because Gage sure does take it to Kayla in this one.
It's coming upon their one year anniversary and man is that weekend fun.
Kayla is tired. She's missing her "old" self. The one where she didn't have to have Gage's permission to do EVERYTHING. She misses her self reliant, independent, FREE self. She's questioning their very existence together...yet she loves him with every beat of her heart. She just doesn't necessarily like his extreme dominance anymore.
Gage knows Kayla is up to something, and he can't understand WHY. She and Eve are his reason for breathing, he gives her everything she could possibly want and more. He's just not sure why she is suddenly rebelling. Yet when he finds out who she's seeing...he see's red.
Weeks and weeks of gagged, drooling, degrading....Perfect!
I'm already missing Gage....I think I've been a bad girl. LOL
5 Spanking Stars
Profile Image for Judy Miracle.
1,198 reviews12 followers
April 22, 2016
This entire series has had me on the edge of my seat and feeling any and all emotions possible. Gemma has done it again giving us another amazing read with The Devil's Wife. Its dark, twisted and one that will stick with you for the near future. Gage and Kayla have been married for a year and although she knew what she was getting into with Gage being obsessive and sadistic the spark and intensity is still in full effect between them. They both have secrets they are keeping from one another. Kayla is starting to miss her freedom so in return she starts pushing the rules making Gage push back. Gage has grown on me since the first book where I hated him but you get to see different sides of him.

This book has a twist in it that threw me as i never saw it coming. If you are new to this series then you will need to read the first two of this series in order to understand what is going on with the characters in this book.
Profile Image for Johnnie-Marie Howard.
1,137 reviews38 followers
July 20, 2016
This story was intense and very very jaw dropping amazing. Not my first book by this author wont be my last, I loved everything about it. She did an outstanding job with the story, how the characters interact with each other was like magic. They haven't changed from book 1 all the same no one new. Nothing about this story was soft at all, hard edges all around. My shock factor was through the roof, I couldn't get enough. My craving was there on every page not going anywhere, hell by the end I still wanted more and more. Everything about this story was great its most definitely a MUST READ!!! so totally worth every word from start to finish.

***I received this story for free in exchange for an honest review***
Profile Image for Monique.
713 reviews55 followers
June 18, 2020
Rating: 5+ Stars

Kayla and Gage are married now and are in a 24/7 master/slave relationship. Kayla is having some trouble adjusting to Gage's new level of control, the rules, etc. She does the unthinkable and pays a serious price for it. This was another cringe worthy part of the series for me. Gemma James just keeps it coming. Gage's punishments are the absolute worst. I wanted to feel bad for Kayla, but she knew what she signed up for. Gage does not play! There was some more drama that continued to keep me interested in the story. I continue to root for Kayla and Gage to win in their relationship.

Re-Read June, 2020: Still one of my favorite series!
Profile Image for Marie.
919 reviews4 followers
June 11, 2018
This a recview for the whole series. Why and How in the hell did I get sucked into Gage and Kayla's story? I spent five wasted hours reading the four books. I read the first cover to cover, then was so disgusted with Gage and Kayla's BS I skimed the last four books. Kayla is a pussy and Gage is absolutely disgusting. If you do read this, you MUST suspend reality. COMPETELY. There are plot lines that are never tied up too. But I will say something kept me reading this even though I wanted to throw up, literally, for the way Gage treats Kayla. Spoiler ahead: he keeps her in a damn cage during the day for MONTHS! He honestly made my stomach turn.
Profile Image for Laura Lee.
957 reviews174 followers
April 19, 2016
WOW!!! Ever want to know what it's like to be married to The Devil? This series has had me in every emotion possible. Now we are into the 1st year of being married...The happiest years...The Honeymoon year. As we prepare for the 1 year anniversary celebration, Gage and Kayla have both been keeping secrets... Secrets that hurt.... Secrets that affect both... Secrets are never good in a marriage... Gage is the Most INtense man I have ever met. Kayla just wants to be herself...

Fantastic Book!!! Loved this series <3 Hopefully there will be more.... (Hint Hint Ms. James)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.