What do you think?
Rate this book
Fallen #2
The Devil's Submission
Disinherited by his parents and estranged from his wife, Fallen pleasure club co-owner Lord Grayson ‘Devil’ Deveraux long ago learned to place his trust in ledgers rather than people. But his ice-cold reserve hides the scandalous truth: he’s a man who craves pain with his pleasure, and a loving lady to instruct him.
Banished to the country when her whirlwind marriage collapsed, Lady Eliza Deveraux never knew why Grayson fell out of love with her: she’d tried so damned hard to quell her fiery self and be a proper, obedient wife. But when Eliza is forced to return to London and back into Grayson’s intoxicating world, banked passions reignite. Can a marriage built on secrets and pretense truly get a second chance?
Fun fact: the Fallen pleasure club is inspired by three real-life Regency-era clubs in London. The White House in Soho Square (madam Theresa Berkley specialized in flagellation, birching, caning etc); The Nunneries in King's Place (madam Catherine Windsor, very exclusive and a favorite of royals, MPs, diplomats, and peers); and Miss Fawkland's Temples in St. James's St.
Banished to the country when her whirlwind marriage collapsed, Lady Eliza Deveraux never knew why Grayson fell out of love with her: she’d tried so damned hard to quell her fiery self and be a proper, obedient wife. But when Eliza is forced to return to London and back into Grayson’s intoxicating world, banked passions reignite. Can a marriage built on secrets and pretense truly get a second chance?
Fun fact: the Fallen pleasure club is inspired by three real-life Regency-era clubs in London. The White House in Soho Square (madam Theresa Berkley specialized in flagellation, birching, caning etc); The Nunneries in King's Place (madam Catherine Windsor, very exclusive and a favorite of royals, MPs, diplomats, and peers); and Miss Fawkland's Temples in St. James's St.
114 pages, ebook
First published February 6, 2017
127 people are currently reading
1659 people want to read
About the author
Nicola Davidson
38 books726 followersUSA Today bestselling author Nicola Davidson worked for many years in media and government communications, but hasn't looked back since she decided writing erotic historical romance was infinitely more fun. When not chained to a computer, she can be found ambling along one of New Zealand’s beautiful beaches, cheering on the All Blacks rugby team, history geeking on the internet, or daydreaming. If this includes dessert—even better!
Her books have appeared in USA Today, NPR, and Entertainment Weekly.
Keep up with Nicola’s news on Twitter (@NicolaMDavidson) Facebook (Nicola Davidson – Author) Instagram (nicoladauthor) or her website www.nicola-davidson.com
Her books have appeared in USA Today, NPR, and Entertainment Weekly.
Keep up with Nicola’s news on Twitter (@NicolaMDavidson) Facebook (Nicola Davidson – Author) Instagram (nicoladauthor) or her website www.nicola-davidson.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 277 reviews
February 12, 2022
UM YES!!!! This was such an amazing marriage in trouble romance that delivered so much in such a short amount of pages. We have a curvy heroine who is estranged from her husband. Eliza's mother blames her for her marriage not going well and for the family business's failure. Eliza finally decides enough is enough and shows up to be with her husband. She learns so much more about his past and his desires and does everything she can to understand what he needs. It was so good!! I loved how they communicated with each other and Eliza went out of her way to figure out how to be there for her husband. I would definitely recommend this novella!
April 9, 2022
the miscommunication trope makes clowns of us all
1.5 stars
1.5 stars
February 24, 2022
Okay this was honestly erotica to me. I didn't really like the premise of the man owning a pleasure club and assisting and watching the shows. He sent his wife away because he's a sub but doesn't want to tell her. I would not call this a true romance but that is just me. I got a little squikked out at some of the scenes and the coarse language. I kind of felt naughty and.... Dear Lord in Heaven I have become my Mother!!!!! EEK!!! I'm officially a prude now. I need to go have a serious talk with myself. I am way to young to be this old or am I!??!?? Totally disappointed in myself. I am a totally bad girl !!! Oh geez that squikked me out too. I am doomed. I am destined to be a missionary. 🙊🙉🙈
February 17, 2018
As a short erotic historical, this book does its job. The writing was good and I feel the characters were fleshed out well considering this was little over 100 pages.
But that's a boring review, and I'm actually a jerk who sometimes nitpicks books.
"Fuck" and "pussy" were thrown around like this was a dirty contemporary published in the last year or so. It was so. Incredibly. Jarring. I feel like I've seen this a lot in several newer HRs, and it annoys me to no end. I don't even know if "pussy" was used to describe a woman's vagina in 1814, but there are other words that are truer to the time period AND are just as erotic. As for fuck, well, I'm fairly certain it wasn't bandied about in the conversations of 1814, even in pleasure houses.
(Note: I'm well aware that "fuck" existed as a word long before this book took place... like, duh, who doesn't know that? That doesn't mean I want to read it in HR. It pulls me out of the story every single time, and I'll always say so.)
I was really excited about the setup. I enjoy stories where the main couple is already married but estranged for some reason, and they have to reconcile. I'm also a fan of a well-done misunderstanding plot, because sometimes it's hard as fuck to talk to people. However, the miscommunication in this book was too much even for me to bear.
At the beginning of the book, Grayson and Eliza have been separated for several months. Even though their marriage started out hot and heavy, something went awry, and he eventually sent her away to live at another property. Except the thing that went awry is that he likes to be dominated in bed, and instead of continuing to order him around she began acting like a demure wife. So of course the only thing to do was send her away.
Grayson must be the stupidest person on the planet. Not only are wives of the time period expected to be submissive to their husband's wills and all that, Eliza's mother runs a finishing school with the motto "Delightful, Decorous, and Demure." Like, why the fuck does he think she's reining in her dominant nature? And he's too ashamed to voice his desires to her... even though he runs a pleasure house where people get up to all sorts of things they don't want to tell everyone, and she lived with him there. So, yeah, she'll never understand, and you should make yourself miserable by sending your wife away with no explanation. Good idea.
All of Grayson's friends act like Eliza needs to step up her game and fix the marriage stat, when all that needs to happen is for Grayson to calmly explain his desires (instead of having a tantrum when he eventually does it). The entire burden falls to Eliza.
I do wish this had been a full-length novel in order to spend more time on Grayson and Eliza getting to know one another again. Instead, since it's so short, they're having the kind of sex Grayson likes five minutes after they reunite. Also, I'm not a fan of the hero having a close female friend who everyone assumes is his mistress, but she's really not, and he never feels the need to inform his wife of this, causing her much unneeded stress.
But that's a boring review, and I'm actually a jerk who sometimes nitpicks books.
"Fuck" and "pussy" were thrown around like this was a dirty contemporary published in the last year or so. It was so. Incredibly. Jarring. I feel like I've seen this a lot in several newer HRs, and it annoys me to no end. I don't even know if "pussy" was used to describe a woman's vagina in 1814, but there are other words that are truer to the time period AND are just as erotic. As for fuck, well, I'm fairly certain it wasn't bandied about in the conversations of 1814, even in pleasure houses.
(Note: I'm well aware that "fuck" existed as a word long before this book took place... like, duh, who doesn't know that? That doesn't mean I want to read it in HR. It pulls me out of the story every single time, and I'll always say so.)
I was really excited about the setup. I enjoy stories where the main couple is already married but estranged for some reason, and they have to reconcile. I'm also a fan of a well-done misunderstanding plot, because sometimes it's hard as fuck to talk to people. However, the miscommunication in this book was too much even for me to bear.
At the beginning of the book, Grayson and Eliza have been separated for several months. Even though their marriage started out hot and heavy, something went awry, and he eventually sent her away to live at another property. Except the thing that went awry is that he likes to be dominated in bed, and instead of continuing to order him around she began acting like a demure wife. So of course the only thing to do was send her away.
Grayson must be the stupidest person on the planet. Not only are wives of the time period expected to be submissive to their husband's wills and all that, Eliza's mother runs a finishing school with the motto "Delightful, Decorous, and Demure." Like, why the fuck does he think she's reining in her dominant nature? And he's too ashamed to voice his desires to her... even though he runs a pleasure house where people get up to all sorts of things they don't want to tell everyone, and she lived with him there. So, yeah, she'll never understand, and you should make yourself miserable by sending your wife away with no explanation. Good idea.
All of Grayson's friends act like Eliza needs to step up her game and fix the marriage stat, when all that needs to happen is for Grayson to calmly explain his desires (instead of having a tantrum when he eventually does it). The entire burden falls to Eliza.
I do wish this had been a full-length novel in order to spend more time on Grayson and Eliza getting to know one another again. Instead, since it's so short, they're having the kind of sex Grayson likes five minutes after they reunite. Also, I'm not a fan of the hero having a close female friend who everyone assumes is his mistress, but she's really not, and he never feels the need to inform his wife of this, causing her much unneeded stress.
December 5, 2022
⭐⭐
2 stars.
➕ What I liked :
Curvy heroine.
Submissive Hero/Dominant Heroine.
➖ What I disliked:
Too much miscommunication and misunderstandings.
Anachronistic.
The story was too short and rushed. (would have been better as a full-length novel)
Somewhat insecure curvy heroine. (too influenced by her horrible mother)
The chemistry and the romantic build up was rushed and lacking.
2 stars.
➕ What I liked :
Curvy heroine.
Submissive Hero/Dominant Heroine.
➖ What I disliked:
Too much miscommunication and misunderstandings.
Anachronistic.
The story was too short and rushed. (would have been better as a full-length novel)
Somewhat insecure curvy heroine. (too influenced by her horrible mother)
The chemistry and the romantic build up was rushed and lacking.
September 1, 2018
Ooookay...
This was desperately anachronistic. I mean, this used the Regency era just as a back drop, a tapestry for what essentially amounts to a modern BDSM erotic romance.
I went in knowing that, and sort of "forgave" the book that major fault (it cost it 2 stars though) and decided to instead enjoy what there was. And enjoy I did. The BDSM was sensitively and well-written, well enough to stir me (which is very high praise!), the plot was one I'd read before, especially that sort of misunderstanding, but it was intelligently resolved and I loved the resolution to the secondary conflict. I also liked all of the characters, and for once a male sub was truly well written and with insight into male submission.
My advice: accept the historical part is simply a tapestry, and enjoy the rest.
This was desperately anachronistic. I mean, this used the Regency era just as a back drop, a tapestry for what essentially amounts to a modern BDSM erotic romance.
I went in knowing that, and sort of "forgave" the book that major fault (it cost it 2 stars though) and decided to instead enjoy what there was. And enjoy I did. The BDSM was sensitively and well-written, well enough to stir me (which is very high praise!), the plot was one I'd read before, especially that sort of misunderstanding, but it was intelligently resolved and I loved the resolution to the secondary conflict. I also liked all of the characters, and for once a male sub was truly well written and with insight into male submission.
My advice: accept the historical part is simply a tapestry, and enjoy the rest.
July 11, 2022
Nah. I don't think she is quite for me. The tone of the book is too sweet for me despite the darker themes. I'd like my books to have a bit more edge to it. Still, not a bad read. It is simply not my cup of tea.
February 7, 2017
This was quite a naughty book. Quite fun as well. I love that the main theme is accepting who you are and also finding someone who can love you for you. Eliza and Dev struggled and were trying to hide themselves from each other but once they revealed their desires and their true selves to each other, sparks were flying. I also loved seeing a male character that preferred to be dominated as usually the female character is the one but there was a turnabout and I really enjoyed seeing the change up. This was a wonderful quick read and now I am going to go back to read the first book.
I received this ARC via NetGalley.
I received this ARC via NetGalley.
October 9, 2021
The Devil's Submission is an erotic historical romance novella following an estranged married couple coming back together and finally being who they truly are.
For Lady Eliza this means letting go of attempts to be the sweet and submissive woman her mother and society want her to be, and coming to realize that her husband fell in love with her bold and brash ways. Lord Grayson has always felt pressure to be dominant in and out of the bedroom, despite the fact that he owns a secret pleasure club devoted to people getting what they truly desire. When his wife comes back to town, it's an opportunity to open up about his past and what he truly wants. Note that this book includes some BDSM elements, on the relatively milder end. I liked this pretty well, though the very modern language sometimes felt jarring and I wanted a little more character development for both Eliza and Grayson. I do appreciate that this author is writing historicals that branch out a bit.
For Lady Eliza this means letting go of attempts to be the sweet and submissive woman her mother and society want her to be, and coming to realize that her husband fell in love with her bold and brash ways. Lord Grayson has always felt pressure to be dominant in and out of the bedroom, despite the fact that he owns a secret pleasure club devoted to people getting what they truly desire. When his wife comes back to town, it's an opportunity to open up about his past and what he truly wants. Note that this book includes some BDSM elements, on the relatively milder end. I liked this pretty well, though the very modern language sometimes felt jarring and I wanted a little more character development for both Eliza and Grayson. I do appreciate that this author is writing historicals that branch out a bit.
February 6, 2017
'The Devil's Submission' by Nicola Davidson is the story of Lord Grayson ‘Devil’ Deveraux and Lady Eliza Deveraux. This is a Novella with about 85 pages and is book Two in the "Fallen' series. Devil and Eliza came into their marriage pretending to be something they were not but pretended to be something they were suppose to be per society. Eliza is a strong women who finds it hard to be a demure, quiet, and submissive. Devil who is a part owner in the Fallen pleasure club has a few secrets himself. Devil has things from his past but also he likes to be dominated. He hides this from his wife and Eliza has been hiding her true self from him. This caused their marriage after just a short time to become to much and they separated her going to the country and him staying. Now though Eliza finds that due to her parents she has to try to give her marriage another go when she agreed to attend a wedding where he will be at.
This book did deal with some hot issue but also some hidden sad issue that had been causing some of their issues. "My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
This book did deal with some hot issue but also some hidden sad issue that had been causing some of their issues. "My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
May 29, 2022
3.25 stars
Nice historical romance novella. I really liked that Davidson wrote a hero who likes to be submissive in the bedroom—I think this is the first time I've read a romance book that had that. Unfortunately, I think it suffered from a few things that just didn't run smoothly: for example, the heroine thinks that the hero has been sleeping with other women, yet all of a sudden forgets this (despite it previously upsetting her greatly) when they jump into bed again and she never actually brings it up and it doesn't get clarified ever (though it is cleared up that the woman she thinks is her husband's mistress is actually nothing of the kind). I also found it a little eye-rolling that he and his friends are nicknamed Devil, Sin, and Vice. I mean, come on. Finally, I hate romances with miscommunication or misunderstandings; if they would just TALK to each other, everything would be better!! Worth a read though, for its originality if nothing else. Is a bit of a scorcher on the heat level.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book
Nice historical romance novella. I really liked that Davidson wrote a hero who likes to be submissive in the bedroom—I think this is the first time I've read a romance book that had that. Unfortunately, I think it suffered from a few things that just didn't run smoothly: for example, the heroine thinks that the hero has been sleeping with other women, yet all of a sudden forgets this (despite it previously upsetting her greatly) when they jump into bed again and she never actually brings it up and it doesn't get clarified ever (though it is cleared up that the woman she thinks is her husband's mistress is actually nothing of the kind). I also found it a little eye-rolling that he and his friends are nicknamed Devil, Sin, and Vice. I mean, come on. Finally, I hate romances with miscommunication or misunderstandings; if they would just TALK to each other, everything would be better!! Worth a read though, for its originality if nothing else. Is a bit of a scorcher on the heat level.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book
March 15, 2022
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
The Devil’s Submission is a story that I have been eager of since I first read the first book of the series: Surrender to Sin. I have adored what the author delivered in the first book, and what I was able to consume within this story was such a treat. I just love seeing a marriage being reconciled such as what we see here. We also have some BDSM type of kink that happens in this story but I really adored the way in which this one was written. The Devil’s Submission is a story that features a married couple but are separated from each other. But the heroine’s mother is compelling her to get the funds and yes her mother is manipulating her into doing this. But she adores her father and is doing it for him. When she comes to London and meets her estranged husband, she and Grayson will have to adapt to each other again, and a passion is kindled between them. Seeing the way in which these two reconnect was so beautiful. Our hero is a natural submissive in the bedroom, and we see how our heroine naturally grows into this and is able to give what he needs the most, in and out of the bedroom. There is quite a bit of emotional depth that while the intimate sex scenes are the ones that are the most focused you also see how much these two really come together for each other. It was so interesting to see the way in which this romance develops. I was cheering these two on from beginning to end and I will say that the narrator is truly magnificent on this one. She really captivates on the emotion and the layers so very well. If you are looking for a well written erotic historical, then you definitely need to look this author up.
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
The Devil’s Submission is a story that I have been eager of since I first read the first book of the series: Surrender to Sin. I have adored what the author delivered in the first book, and what I was able to consume within this story was such a treat. I just love seeing a marriage being reconciled such as what we see here. We also have some BDSM type of kink that happens in this story but I really adored the way in which this one was written. The Devil’s Submission is a story that features a married couple but are separated from each other. But the heroine’s mother is compelling her to get the funds and yes her mother is manipulating her into doing this. But she adores her father and is doing it for him. When she comes to London and meets her estranged husband, she and Grayson will have to adapt to each other again, and a passion is kindled between them. Seeing the way in which these two reconnect was so beautiful. Our hero is a natural submissive in the bedroom, and we see how our heroine naturally grows into this and is able to give what he needs the most, in and out of the bedroom. There is quite a bit of emotional depth that while the intimate sex scenes are the ones that are the most focused you also see how much these two really come together for each other. It was so interesting to see the way in which this romance develops. I was cheering these two on from beginning to end and I will say that the narrator is truly magnificent on this one. She really captivates on the emotion and the layers so very well. If you are looking for a well written erotic historical, then you definitely need to look this author up.
March 28, 2021
2.5 stars
What I liked:
✗ marriage in trouble trope
✗ plus-size heroine
✗ sub Hero / dom heroine
What I didn't like:
✗ miscommunication trope
✗ super modern dialogue
✗ basically modern BDSM erotica pretending to be historical
What I liked:
✗ marriage in trouble trope
✗ plus-size heroine
✗ sub Hero / dom heroine
What I didn't like:
✗ miscommunication trope
✗ super modern dialogue
✗ basically modern BDSM erotica pretending to be historical
May 2, 2018
Meh.
Insubstantial, anachronous fluff with horrid pretence at being historical by repeatedly using the word ton.
Insubstantial, anachronous fluff with horrid pretence at being historical by repeatedly using the word ton.
June 25, 2020
Yes yes yes!
Marriage in Trouble.
Historical Romance.
BBW Heroine
Submissive Hero.
I want nothing more from life.
Marriage in Trouble.
Historical Romance.
BBW Heroine
Submissive Hero.
I want nothing more from life.
March 20, 2017
Oh, my goodness. I'm so glad I followed a fellow writer's suggestion to buy and read the novella THE DEVIL'S SUBMISSION by Nicola Davidson.
It's hard to find well-written and edited erotic romance (that I haven't written myself) with a switch or submissive male. Almost like hunting for unicorns, to be honest.
It's a regency historical too, and the author got the details RIGHT. I could actually enjoy the story instead of having to shove the part of me that reveled in obtaining a Masters in Teaching with a concentration on World History deep down where it wouldn't bother my reading. I could… just read. That is becoming sort of like the one-horned wonder hunt in itself these days.
Ms. Davidson captured me quickly with her voice, within two pages she'd hooked me hard and I knew I wouldn't be doing the dishes tonight.
It's a fast, easy read at about 83 pages and my editor brain slept through most of it. (I'm annoyed, as I always am that lending isn't an option. My book, I bought it, should be able to lend it.)
I would have preferred a bit more aftercare shown after the BDSM scenes, especially the one with a cane. They're well-written, and the author knows her stuff about where and how to use a cane, but aftercare is something I really like to see in books containing BDSM.
If you, like me, lust for well-written kink stories that are also well-edited, you'll want to pick this one up.
It's the second in the series, but you don't actually have to read the first one to thoroughly enjoy it. (I didn't even know it WAS the second book because I didn't pay attention.) That said, Ms. Davidson handles this magnificently and I'm not left wanting more information like some series I've reviewed on here.
I'm certainly going to be looking for more of Ms. Davidson's work. (Read as I already bought two more.)
Scores:
Readability: 5/5 Fast, easy commercial level read. Hooked me hard at the beginning and I sat here on the couch tonight reading it instead of doing what I was supposed to be doing.
Arcs: 5/5 It's a novella, which some authors seem to struggle with. Ms. Davidson doesn't. The arcs are well written and fleshed out enough that regardless of length, they're perfect. I'm satisfied after reading it.
Craft: 5/5 Also a high score here, my only caveats are lack of aftercare in the BDSM scenes, I honestly only caught one use of passive voice and two filter words.
It's hard to find well-written and edited erotic romance (that I haven't written myself) with a switch or submissive male. Almost like hunting for unicorns, to be honest.
It's a regency historical too, and the author got the details RIGHT. I could actually enjoy the story instead of having to shove the part of me that reveled in obtaining a Masters in Teaching with a concentration on World History deep down where it wouldn't bother my reading. I could… just read. That is becoming sort of like the one-horned wonder hunt in itself these days.
Ms. Davidson captured me quickly with her voice, within two pages she'd hooked me hard and I knew I wouldn't be doing the dishes tonight.
It's a fast, easy read at about 83 pages and my editor brain slept through most of it. (I'm annoyed, as I always am that lending isn't an option. My book, I bought it, should be able to lend it.)
I would have preferred a bit more aftercare shown after the BDSM scenes, especially the one with a cane. They're well-written, and the author knows her stuff about where and how to use a cane, but aftercare is something I really like to see in books containing BDSM.
If you, like me, lust for well-written kink stories that are also well-edited, you'll want to pick this one up.
It's the second in the series, but you don't actually have to read the first one to thoroughly enjoy it. (I didn't even know it WAS the second book because I didn't pay attention.) That said, Ms. Davidson handles this magnificently and I'm not left wanting more information like some series I've reviewed on here.
I'm certainly going to be looking for more of Ms. Davidson's work. (Read as I already bought two more.)
Scores:
Readability: 5/5 Fast, easy commercial level read. Hooked me hard at the beginning and I sat here on the couch tonight reading it instead of doing what I was supposed to be doing.
Arcs: 5/5 It's a novella, which some authors seem to struggle with. Ms. Davidson doesn't. The arcs are well written and fleshed out enough that regardless of length, they're perfect. I'm satisfied after reading it.
Craft: 5/5 Also a high score here, my only caveats are lack of aftercare in the BDSM scenes, I honestly only caught one use of passive voice and two filter words.
May 11, 2017
In stark contrast to Surrender to Sin, The Devil’s Submission (okay so Grayson wasn’t the least bit devilish imo, but that didn’t stop me from picturing Tom Ellis as I read) did not rely on blind heat to see it through, but was instead guided by lots of heart and even more feels. I think the already established backstory of how Grayson and Eliza first came to be married, and later estranged, as well as glimpses into their own unique characterizations, helped a lot development-wise which again, was very unlike the previous book’s insta-love approach. These changes were definitely welcome ones.
The main plot was also a pleasing departure from what's typically found in many bdsm eroticas. That being that in this case, the heroine was the dominant force in the relationship while the hero relished in being under her complete control. Talk about flipping role expectations, especially in the ultra stuffy Regency era. This had the added benefit in creating a good amount of emotional conflict and depth to what was on the surface, a fairly straightforward setup.
I had a lot of love for this couple, and their journey together. To see flame haired Eliza embrace the fire within her and thereby helping to rid Grayson of his icy exterior to the point where they could both just utterly be themselves with each other; this meeting of the minds, bodies and souls made their second chance romance something truly special indeed. Ahh, marrieds who fall in love all over again, is there anything better? Their sexy times weren’t too shabby either.
I do think the book would’ve greatly benefited if it had been longer and written in a less modernistic tone. These were just small nitpicks, but distracting enough to influence the final rating. Bottom line, if you’re in the mood for a quick read heartfelt erotica, this one would get my rec. Now all I need in my life is Vice’s book. Give me that Scottish viscount in all his kilted, ginger glory now!!!
The main plot was also a pleasing departure from what's typically found in many bdsm eroticas. That being that in this case, the heroine was the dominant force in the relationship while the hero relished in being under her complete control. Talk about flipping role expectations, especially in the ultra stuffy Regency era. This had the added benefit in creating a good amount of emotional conflict and depth to what was on the surface, a fairly straightforward setup.
I had a lot of love for this couple, and their journey together. To see flame haired Eliza embrace the fire within her and thereby helping to rid Grayson of his icy exterior to the point where they could both just utterly be themselves with each other; this meeting of the minds, bodies and souls made their second chance romance something truly special indeed. Ahh, marrieds who fall in love all over again, is there anything better? Their sexy times weren’t too shabby either.
I do think the book would’ve greatly benefited if it had been longer and written in a less modernistic tone. These were just small nitpicks, but distracting enough to influence the final rating. Bottom line, if you’re in the mood for a quick read heartfelt erotica, this one would get my rec. Now all I need in my life is Vice’s book. Give me that Scottish viscount in all his kilted, ginger glory now!!!
February 7, 2017
Lady Eliza Deveraux has earned the scorn of her mother, Countess Brimley, when she left her husband after six months, Lord Grayson Devereaux, better known as Devil or Dev by his friends. Eliza has fought her nature all her life; she has never quite managed to be the demure, prim and proper a husband craves, she feels she has failed Dev as a wife; she knew she made him miserable, and she simply gave up trying. Eliza’s father has made bad investments, her mother made even worse decisions, and now the Countess is imploring Eliza to go to the wedding of Grayson’s friends, Grace and Sin, and to try to reconcile with her husband; Countess Brimley desperately needs a favour. It’s the last thing Eliza wants, but her family faces ruin, so off to London she is. Devil owns a pleasure club – Fallen – with his friends Sin and Vice (oh those nicknames!). Dev is a wealthy man, but shunned by society for his choice of trade. He is also miserable: he loves his wife, but his secret is destroying him.
When it comes to erotic romance, I can take it or leave it. It all comes down to the subject matter and the writing; the fact that Dev is a submissive man had me grabbing that book in a matter of seconds, and Ms. Davidson handles her subject splendidly! Devil’s sexual preference is intrinsic to the story, this being realistic given that it was not something that was openly discussed in the Regency era, to say the least, especially as it is viewed as a weakness in men. Nicola Davidson’s prose is simply sublime! Eloquent and vivid, the era is depicted very faithfully, and the author breathes life into her characters in such a way that we know immediately who they are and what they are, whether the selfish Countess, Grayson’s friends, the tortured Devil himself, or the baffled Eliza, who struggles to remain true to herself while desperately trying to bend to society’s edicts and be a meek female. Eliza sparkles and shines when she is authentic; she is a flirtatious, graceful, enticing feline presence, and a very powerful woman who gives Dev what he desperately craves.
Dev has a heartbreaking backstory, and my heart ached at how difficult it was for him to simply be. The chemistry between Dev and Eliza is explosive, and the sex scenes are amazing: tender, erotic, loving, and freeing. THE DEVIL’S SUBMISSION is one of those very rare books where I never felt like there was a space with “insert sex scene here”; it was all very organic, and seamless. And bear in mind that this is an erotic romance, BDSM to boot, and a novella that was meatier than most full-length novels. Ms. Davidson has an eye for detail and the talent to describe everything succinctly and clearly. The dialogues are splendid: natural and witty, playful and sexy, the author’s vocabulary is irreproachable, and the overall writing is gorgeousness itself.
THE DEVIL’S SUBMISSION is wonderfully entertaining, the story is very emotional, there is a plot twist that brought tears to my eyes, and the love is very real between Eliza and Grayson. This book is an ode to empowerment, honesty, and true love. I hope this series has at least two more books; while Vice’s story will most likely be next – and it will be glorious! – I would love to see Peter’s story as well; he is quite an intriguing character. THE DEVIL’S SUBMISSION is a wickedly, delightful, and most excellent erotic romance!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
When it comes to erotic romance, I can take it or leave it. It all comes down to the subject matter and the writing; the fact that Dev is a submissive man had me grabbing that book in a matter of seconds, and Ms. Davidson handles her subject splendidly! Devil’s sexual preference is intrinsic to the story, this being realistic given that it was not something that was openly discussed in the Regency era, to say the least, especially as it is viewed as a weakness in men. Nicola Davidson’s prose is simply sublime! Eloquent and vivid, the era is depicted very faithfully, and the author breathes life into her characters in such a way that we know immediately who they are and what they are, whether the selfish Countess, Grayson’s friends, the tortured Devil himself, or the baffled Eliza, who struggles to remain true to herself while desperately trying to bend to society’s edicts and be a meek female. Eliza sparkles and shines when she is authentic; she is a flirtatious, graceful, enticing feline presence, and a very powerful woman who gives Dev what he desperately craves.
Dev has a heartbreaking backstory, and my heart ached at how difficult it was for him to simply be. The chemistry between Dev and Eliza is explosive, and the sex scenes are amazing: tender, erotic, loving, and freeing. THE DEVIL’S SUBMISSION is one of those very rare books where I never felt like there was a space with “insert sex scene here”; it was all very organic, and seamless. And bear in mind that this is an erotic romance, BDSM to boot, and a novella that was meatier than most full-length novels. Ms. Davidson has an eye for detail and the talent to describe everything succinctly and clearly. The dialogues are splendid: natural and witty, playful and sexy, the author’s vocabulary is irreproachable, and the overall writing is gorgeousness itself.
THE DEVIL’S SUBMISSION is wonderfully entertaining, the story is very emotional, there is a plot twist that brought tears to my eyes, and the love is very real between Eliza and Grayson. This book is an ode to empowerment, honesty, and true love. I hope this series has at least two more books; while Vice’s story will most likely be next – and it will be glorious! – I would love to see Peter’s story as well; he is quite an intriguing character. THE DEVIL’S SUBMISSION is a wickedly, delightful, and most excellent erotic romance!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
September 6, 2022
Tropes: Second Chance Romance, Erotic Novella, Historical Romance, Submissive Hero/Dominant Heroine, BDSM elements
I absolutely adore this entire series. It's a BDSM novella series that takes place during Regency England. In total there are three books that follows our three hero's who own a BDSM Club. Grayson our hero is a shy, nerdy, accountant of the BDSM club. Out of all three of them this one is my absolute FAVORITE.
This is a second chance romance/marriage in trouble. Grayson our hero falls in love with his wife Eliza because she is a little more dominant and he is more submissive. However, society pressures them into filling roles that they are not. Eliza's mother pressures her to be a "gentle English lady" which is not who Grayson fell in love with and they end up drifting apart. Years later they come together to save their marriage and fall back in love with one another.
"They're accepting it." he said wonderingly. "Well of course they are," she said smoothing his hair in her supremely calming way. "Because you and Sin and Vice accepted them. You've never judged or mocked their desires, so they are returning the favor. Fallen really is a sanctuary for everyone, including you, and you helped make it what it is."
I absolutely adore a submissive hero! This was such a unique historical romance and I could not read it enough. I genuinely love everything Nicola Davidson writes.
I absolutely adore this entire series. It's a BDSM novella series that takes place during Regency England. In total there are three books that follows our three hero's who own a BDSM Club. Grayson our hero is a shy, nerdy, accountant of the BDSM club. Out of all three of them this one is my absolute FAVORITE.
This is a second chance romance/marriage in trouble. Grayson our hero falls in love with his wife Eliza because she is a little more dominant and he is more submissive. However, society pressures them into filling roles that they are not. Eliza's mother pressures her to be a "gentle English lady" which is not who Grayson fell in love with and they end up drifting apart. Years later they come together to save their marriage and fall back in love with one another.
"They're accepting it." he said wonderingly. "Well of course they are," she said smoothing his hair in her supremely calming way. "Because you and Sin and Vice accepted them. You've never judged or mocked their desires, so they are returning the favor. Fallen really is a sanctuary for everyone, including you, and you helped make it what it is."
I absolutely adore a submissive hero! This was such a unique historical romance and I could not read it enough. I genuinely love everything Nicola Davidson writes.
April 30, 2017
This was a wonderful mix of hotness and charm. Devil and Eliza were pretty good together, and though this book was a quick read, I felt as if I learned a good bit about each character. Lizzie was a charming mmix of strength and vulnerability, and Devil though a sub was so yummy. I enjoyed their HEA and I would recommend.
February 6, 2017
Naughty fun, scorching heat, reckless abandon, with a sprinkle of submission and delightful games. Erotic intoxication of historic proportions. Lord and Lady Devaraux both have desires unfulfilled and need that special hand to get them both going. Lady Deveruax (Eliza) loves her man and cannot understand where things went wrong for them. They love was more than just a convenient match. Or so she thought. Then life brings her back into close proximity of her wayward husband. Things begin to heat up and take on a new meaning all together.
Not understanding much of the world around him. Lord Deveraux longed for that something that would give him the peace and pleasure with pain he so desired/craved/needed. Getting that chance with his wife and having all the walls come crashing down opened a door to something he never dreamed of.
This one got on my top list basically because this time it was a man that craved that forbidden. It was a woman that wanted to give that ultimate pleasure. The give and take of the two together made their reunion that much more intense, special, memorable. It may have been a short novella but it most certainly packed a deliciously decadent punch.
Not understanding much of the world around him. Lord Deveraux longed for that something that would give him the peace and pleasure with pain he so desired/craved/needed. Getting that chance with his wife and having all the walls come crashing down opened a door to something he never dreamed of.
This one got on my top list basically because this time it was a man that craved that forbidden. It was a woman that wanted to give that ultimate pleasure. The give and take of the two together made their reunion that much more intense, special, memorable. It may have been a short novella but it most certainly packed a deliciously decadent punch.
March 17, 2017
Full review at Smart Bitches, Trashy Books
Oh, how I loved The Devil’s Submission. I wished it were longer than just a novella.
First of all, it’s one of the few erotic romances, let alone historicals, that I’ve read that features a submissive hero.
The reason I loved The Devil’s Submission so much was that it depicts two adults finding comfort and joy together in a shared kink. It’s about a healthy exploration of sexuality and acceptance of the results of that exploration. Sex positivity for the win!
If you like your historicals steamy or are looking for a submissive hero, then definitely check out The Devil’s Submission.
- Elyse
Oh, how I loved The Devil’s Submission. I wished it were longer than just a novella.
First of all, it’s one of the few erotic romances, let alone historicals, that I’ve read that features a submissive hero.
The reason I loved The Devil’s Submission so much was that it depicts two adults finding comfort and joy together in a shared kink. It’s about a healthy exploration of sexuality and acceptance of the results of that exploration. Sex positivity for the win!
If you like your historicals steamy or are looking for a submissive hero, then definitely check out The Devil’s Submission.
- Elyse
February 11, 2017
I've become a huge fan of Nicola's work, especially after the release of the FALLEN series and The Devil's Submission did not disappoint. What a great, fast paced, but meaningful book. I love how Nicola can make her readers feel for her characters in such a short span of time. I can't wait for the third book in this series. May can't get here soon enough.
November 23, 2022
I’m not crying, you’re crying! 🥹🥹
I’ll try not to blubber too much.. Here’s the setup: Grayson (yes, I’m just ignoring that he was called Devil) knows he’s a sub and a masochist. In fact, he fell in love with his wife Eliza for her stubborn and bossy-boots personality. But in the awkward early stage their marriage, they reverted to more gender-appropriate stereotypes: Eliza trying to be demure and deferential and Grayson becoming cold and distant. Enter our marriage in trouble story.
Ugh! Eliza’s Femme Dom awakening, Grayson opening up about his closeted kinky-ness, the love they felt for each other, the relief and acceptance they experienced in each other. My heart!!
When it finally clicked for Eliza that Grayson was attracted to her bossiness in the bedroom, I cried 🥲 And the scene was so hot… I was hot-scene-crying 😭🥵
If you only ever read one male sub/masochist story in your life, make it this one! There wasn’t one discordant note when it came to Grayson and Eliza’s characterization, in and out of the bedroom, kinky or not. This was so well-written, so steamy, so heartfelt. And just.. so dang important! The discussion of gender, of kink, of relationships. I loved everything.
You have to read this!!
I’ll try not to blubber too much.. Here’s the setup: Grayson (yes, I’m just ignoring that he was called Devil) knows he’s a sub and a masochist. In fact, he fell in love with his wife Eliza for her stubborn and bossy-boots personality. But in the awkward early stage their marriage, they reverted to more gender-appropriate stereotypes: Eliza trying to be demure and deferential and Grayson becoming cold and distant. Enter our marriage in trouble story.
Ugh! Eliza’s Femme Dom awakening, Grayson opening up about his closeted kinky-ness, the love they felt for each other, the relief and acceptance they experienced in each other. My heart!!
When it finally clicked for Eliza that Grayson was attracted to her bossiness in the bedroom, I cried 🥲 And the scene was so hot… I was hot-scene-crying 😭🥵
If you only ever read one male sub/masochist story in your life, make it this one! There wasn’t one discordant note when it came to Grayson and Eliza’s characterization, in and out of the bedroom, kinky or not. This was so well-written, so steamy, so heartfelt. And just.. so dang important! The discussion of gender, of kink, of relationships. I loved everything.
You have to read this!!
March 8, 2019
Sexy, emotional and SO satisfying!
Having read 'Surrender to Sin' (which I adored) I dived straight into the sequel.
It not only lived up to the gorgeous sensuality of the first volume but delivered an extra large dollop of cream on top.
🔥 Volcanic. The hottest book I've read in a very long time. I loved a hero who isn't afraid to let his heroine take control, and this story was right up there, with Lord Deveraux delighting in submission, as well as taking pleasure in experiencing pain. Great handling of backstory, and showing how the hero and heroine were matched in their kink.
🔥 A hero to swoon over, and a heroine with moxie. I was reading late into the night, wanting to see how Lord Grayson ‘Devil’ Deveraux and Lady Eliza would heal the wounds in their marriage.
🔥 Emotionally intense. I was totally invested, choking back the tears at times. Loved that.
🔥 Great setting. Love the premise of the 'Fallen' pleasure club and 'Devil's' fellow owners.
Am writing this having also just finished Volume 3 of the series - review to follow.
While this volume (2) of the trilogy is my favourite of the three, they are all excellent.
Ms. Davidson's three novellas make a delicious collection.
She shows us how to capture a full story arc in a short space of words.
No easy task. There are serious writing skills here.
Brava!
April 29, 2023
This is the marriage-in-trouble romance between Grayson and Eliza. They were married a few years ago, but haven't seen each other in a while. Eliza finally makes her way to London for various reasons, but the main one is to hopefully bring her husband back to her.
This was a great read!! Love the setting and love the marriage in trouble trope. Just wasn't the biggest fan of the conflict. I just wanted them to sit down and talk 🤣
TROPES: dom heroine, historical romance, marriage in trouble, plus size rep
This was a great read!! Love the setting and love the marriage in trouble trope. Just wasn't the biggest fan of the conflict. I just wanted them to sit down and talk 🤣
TROPES: dom heroine, historical romance, marriage in trouble, plus size rep
June 23, 2022
Oh. My. GOD!!! This was so so soooo freaking good!!!
November 19, 2022
Submissive heroes satisfy me in a way nothing else does
December 30, 2017
The Devil’s Submission is the second erotic romance novella by Nicola Davidson that is set with the pleasure club Fallen as its background. The first story, Surrender to Sin, was an excellent introduction to the characters and club, and this one takes us on an equally steamy ride as an estranged married couple finds their way back to each other.
Grayson ‘Devil’ Devereaux is weary of pretending that being a dominant male is his calling, though he still plays at it in the Fallen Club when required, part of his job as a co-owner. In truth, he’d like nothing more than to be at the feet of his wife, a woman who shows signs of dominant tendencies when they first married, but then became more and more like a simpering society woman, to the point where he suggested she move to their country estate and she obliged.
Lady Eliza is heartbroken when her husband, a man she truly loves, becomes more and more withdrawn, even as she tries harder and harder to be the perfect lady wife. The passion that existed in their courtship when her more bossy tendencies came out is dormant. When she receives an invitation from Dev’s best friend Sin to Sin and Grace’s wedding, she believes her husband won’t want her there. But her parents run a finishing school that is in deep debt, and her mother forces Eliza’s hand, asking her to return to her wealthy husband to get the money. Reluctantly Eliza agrees. But when faced in the flesh with the man she adores, the intensity of her feelings makes her behave more like she did when they were courting – and Dev instantly responds. Can they recapture the relationship they once had, and get their happy ever after?
If I have a guilty pleasure in erotic romances, it’s ones with a Domme/sub-theme, so this one is definitely right up my alley. Dev’s penchant for pain with his pleasure resulted in horrible family turmoil that caused him to be kicked out his home, leading eventually to where he is now as co-owner of Fallen. But the shame of his feelings is still strong and he’s never admitted them to anyone, even in the privacy and security of a club that caters to all manner of sexual desires. Because of this, he was never fully open with Eliza about his wants and is responsible for the damage done to his marriage. Given this chance to make things right, his response to her more dominant nature (that she just can’t hide all the time) puts them on the right path. Eliza is quick to realize that being herself makes things between her and Dev so much better. There is the requisite conflict, a few secrets and some bumps in the road, but their happy ending is deeply satisfying.
One must take the historical background with a grain of salt, as I doubt there were pleasure clubs that were always insistent on women’s full consent before sex play – that’s a nod to the sensibilities of the current reading audience. Similarly, the idea that the club takes in disadvantaged women to help give them a more stable income is pretty fanciful. The nobility is fairly generic, as is the country versus city locales. But it’s well written and entertaining regardless. The sex scenes are super hot and involve both the couple in question as well as scenes in the club itself, definitely putting this in the erotic category. Overall, it’s a very enjoyable romance. I’m definitely looking forward to more in this series!
This review appears at: https://straightshootinbookreviews.co...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
Grayson ‘Devil’ Devereaux is weary of pretending that being a dominant male is his calling, though he still plays at it in the Fallen Club when required, part of his job as a co-owner. In truth, he’d like nothing more than to be at the feet of his wife, a woman who shows signs of dominant tendencies when they first married, but then became more and more like a simpering society woman, to the point where he suggested she move to their country estate and she obliged.
Lady Eliza is heartbroken when her husband, a man she truly loves, becomes more and more withdrawn, even as she tries harder and harder to be the perfect lady wife. The passion that existed in their courtship when her more bossy tendencies came out is dormant. When she receives an invitation from Dev’s best friend Sin to Sin and Grace’s wedding, she believes her husband won’t want her there. But her parents run a finishing school that is in deep debt, and her mother forces Eliza’s hand, asking her to return to her wealthy husband to get the money. Reluctantly Eliza agrees. But when faced in the flesh with the man she adores, the intensity of her feelings makes her behave more like she did when they were courting – and Dev instantly responds. Can they recapture the relationship they once had, and get their happy ever after?
If I have a guilty pleasure in erotic romances, it’s ones with a Domme/sub-theme, so this one is definitely right up my alley. Dev’s penchant for pain with his pleasure resulted in horrible family turmoil that caused him to be kicked out his home, leading eventually to where he is now as co-owner of Fallen. But the shame of his feelings is still strong and he’s never admitted them to anyone, even in the privacy and security of a club that caters to all manner of sexual desires. Because of this, he was never fully open with Eliza about his wants and is responsible for the damage done to his marriage. Given this chance to make things right, his response to her more dominant nature (that she just can’t hide all the time) puts them on the right path. Eliza is quick to realize that being herself makes things between her and Dev so much better. There is the requisite conflict, a few secrets and some bumps in the road, but their happy ending is deeply satisfying.
One must take the historical background with a grain of salt, as I doubt there were pleasure clubs that were always insistent on women’s full consent before sex play – that’s a nod to the sensibilities of the current reading audience. Similarly, the idea that the club takes in disadvantaged women to help give them a more stable income is pretty fanciful. The nobility is fairly generic, as is the country versus city locales. But it’s well written and entertaining regardless. The sex scenes are super hot and involve both the couple in question as well as scenes in the club itself, definitely putting this in the erotic category. Overall, it’s a very enjoyable romance. I’m definitely looking forward to more in this series!
This review appears at: https://straightshootinbookreviews.co...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
February 10, 2017
This is the second quick romance novella in this author's Fallen series. It can be read as a standalone - because I was able to follow the story just fine and I did not read the first book (but I am sure going to go read it now!). For those that did read Surrender to Sin, we get a quick glimpse at Sin & Grace. But this story focuses on Grayson & Eliza's life. Their marriage is on the rocks because Grayson has wants that he doesn't feel he can share with Eliza & Eliza is being told by her mother that the perfect wife has to be subdued and demure. Throughout the story both characters reminisce on their courtship and wish for their marriage to return to the way it was in the beginning but both are nervous to speak out about what they want from their marriage.
The author puts a new spin on a historical romance. Normally we read about a young, helpless woman and the suave, debonair man who swoops into her life. I don't know that I've read many books where the man is submissive to the woman, let alone a historical romance where this is the case. This was a very quick read but it was worth every minute I spent on it. I wish there was a little more to it, but even the shortness of it can't take away from how much I enjoyed this book. I loved the characters of Eliza & Grayson; the chemistry between them is undeniable and I love how the author wrote their story
The author puts a new spin on a historical romance. Normally we read about a young, helpless woman and the suave, debonair man who swoops into her life. I don't know that I've read many books where the man is submissive to the woman, let alone a historical romance where this is the case. This was a very quick read but it was worth every minute I spent on it. I wish there was a little more to it, but even the shortness of it can't take away from how much I enjoyed this book. I loved the characters of Eliza & Grayson; the chemistry between them is undeniable and I love how the author wrote their story
Displaying 1 - 30 of 277 reviews