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Princes of Texas #2
The Devil in the Saddle
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Julia London brings readers a charming, sexy contemporary western, where a Texas princess learns that love may burn brightest for the devil who steps in your path...
No one cheats on a Prince and gets away with it. And Hallie--Texas socialite, would-be ballerina, and the only daughter of Cimarron County's renowned Prince family--is ready to give her two-timing fiance a piece of her mind. But fate plants hot, sexy ranch hand and ex-Army Ranger Rafael Fontana quite literally in her way. Her childhood friend is all grown up. He's sexy, he's handsome, and suddenly, after all these years, Hallie is taking notice.
Rafe has been in love with Hallie since they were kids, but he was always the help--and she was glamorous and popular, seemingly off-limits to a lowly cowboy. But now he's back at Three Rivers Ranch to help his family and Hallie is there too--and she needs his support. Of course, Rafe agrees, but soon long-buried feelings boil to the surface, and the desire between them is hot and palpable and undeniable. Rafe realizes he wants Hallie for keeps... he just has to convince her to give true love another shot.
No one cheats on a Prince and gets away with it. And Hallie--Texas socialite, would-be ballerina, and the only daughter of Cimarron County's renowned Prince family--is ready to give her two-timing fiance a piece of her mind. But fate plants hot, sexy ranch hand and ex-Army Ranger Rafael Fontana quite literally in her way. Her childhood friend is all grown up. He's sexy, he's handsome, and suddenly, after all these years, Hallie is taking notice.
Rafe has been in love with Hallie since they were kids, but he was always the help--and she was glamorous and popular, seemingly off-limits to a lowly cowboy. But now he's back at Three Rivers Ranch to help his family and Hallie is there too--and she needs his support. Of course, Rafe agrees, but soon long-buried feelings boil to the surface, and the desire between them is hot and palpable and undeniable. Rafe realizes he wants Hallie for keeps... he just has to convince her to give true love another shot.
333 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 22, 2019
88 people are currently reading
285 people want to read
About the author
Julia London
190 books3,141 followersJulia London is the New York Times and USA Today best selling author of more than two dozen romantic fiction novels. She is the author of the popular historical romance series, the Cabot Sisters, including The Trouble with Honor, The Devil Takes a Bride, and The Scoundrel and the Debutante. She is also the author of several contemporary romances, including Homecoming Ranch, Return to Homecoming Ranch, and The Perfect Homecoming.
Julia is the recipient of the RT Bookclub Award for Best Historical Romance and a six-time finalist for the prestigious RITA award for excellence in romantic fiction. To keep up with all the Julia London news, please visit http://www.julialondon.com. Follow her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/julialondon
Julia is the recipient of the RT Bookclub Award for Best Historical Romance and a six-time finalist for the prestigious RITA award for excellence in romantic fiction. To keep up with all the Julia London news, please visit http://www.julialondon.com. Follow her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/julialondon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
December 2, 2025
The Devil in the Saddle is a cute and endearing second chance at love romance.
Hallie Prince’s fiancé cheated on her right after she lost her father and discovered that her father had left the family with gambling burdens. Distraught over the betrayal, Hallie returns home to lick her wounds only to be caught off guard by her childhood friend Rafael.
Rafael is a retired Army Ranger who has returned home to assist is father with the Prince’s family ranch, Three Rivers Ranch. Rafael has always been in love with Hallie since they grew up, but understands that he will always be the ranch hand and employee and not the social elite that Hallie deserves.
When things turn difficult Hallie turns to Rafael only to discover there could be more to their relationship then she ever could imagine, only to find Rafael taking one step forward to two steps back.
Now, the fun begins, with Hallie and Rafe both unequivocally draw to each other but knowing where they stand.
Lots of heart, some agonizing hurt and some fantastic chemistry makes The Devil in the Saddle a great cowboy contemporary romance.
I received this ARC copy of The Devil in the Saddle from Berkley Publishing Group. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Hallie Prince’s fiancé cheated on her right after she lost her father and discovered that her father had left the family with gambling burdens. Distraught over the betrayal, Hallie returns home to lick her wounds only to be caught off guard by her childhood friend Rafael.
Rafael is a retired Army Ranger who has returned home to assist is father with the Prince’s family ranch, Three Rivers Ranch. Rafael has always been in love with Hallie since they grew up, but understands that he will always be the ranch hand and employee and not the social elite that Hallie deserves.
When things turn difficult Hallie turns to Rafael only to discover there could be more to their relationship then she ever could imagine, only to find Rafael taking one step forward to two steps back.
Now, the fun begins, with Hallie and Rafe both unequivocally draw to each other but knowing where they stand.
Lots of heart, some agonizing hurt and some fantastic chemistry makes The Devil in the Saddle a great cowboy contemporary romance.
I received this ARC copy of The Devil in the Saddle from Berkley Publishing Group. This is my honest and voluntary review.
March 11, 2020
I read the previous book in this series after seeing a glowing recommendation for this one. I'm happy to have read the books in order, because the first story sets up the overarching story line about a family that along with having lost their patriarch, have also lost their uber-wealthy status. With that comes grief and adjusting to a slightly different lifestyle. Gratefully, the author doesn't dwell in gloom and doom, but often finds the advantages and humor in their lifestyle shifts.
First, I would like to note that the title does not suit the story at all. The hero is lovely and an all-around good guy. He is nothing that could be described as a devil, rake, or rascal. Personally, that doesn't bother me, because I love a strong, but gentle and noble hero just as much as I enjoy a brooding and grumpy one.
This story is youngest sibling, Hallie's story. She's discovering herself after her father death and leaving her fiance. All this, while unaware of childhood friend, Rafe's unrequited love for her. Rafe is there to help as he does with most everyone else in his life. This is a friends-to-lovers romance that hits all the right notes with me. I like Hallie's straightforward honesty and spunky personality and Rafe is a fantastic hero with his generous-to-a-fault spirit. The story is full of romantic tension and the two of them together are often playful and always endearing. The whole book is full of funny and feisty characters, as well as some subtle and honorable ones. It strikes the perfect balance and keeps the story from being boring or over-the-top. I'm really and truly enjoying this series, so far, and I’m looking forward to the third and final book.
October 18, 2019
ARC received via Netgalley for an honest review
This is only my second Julia London read (and no, the first read was not the first in the Princes of Texas Series, however this did not affect my reading of book 2).
Hallie Prince is the princess of this family. However to me, for a lot of the first half of the book, I was more inclined to think spoiled brat. I found her quite unlikable for a long time, however she did get better as the book progressed.
Rafe, sometimes he annoyed me, but mostly I adored this guy. Even when I wanted to slap some sense into him lol
I did enjoy watching these best friends become more - slowly but surely anyway. Though there was a time or two where I wanted to bang their heads together and tell them to get their act together.
I don't think at all the Rafe was a "devil in the saddle" - he's way too good of a man to be a devil anywhere at all.
I will go back and read the first book, and want to read the next book in this series.
This is only my second Julia London read (and no, the first read was not the first in the Princes of Texas Series, however this did not affect my reading of book 2).
Hallie Prince is the princess of this family. However to me, for a lot of the first half of the book, I was more inclined to think spoiled brat. I found her quite unlikable for a long time, however she did get better as the book progressed.
Rafe, sometimes he annoyed me, but mostly I adored this guy. Even when I wanted to slap some sense into him lol
I did enjoy watching these best friends become more - slowly but surely anyway. Though there was a time or two where I wanted to bang their heads together and tell them to get their act together.
I don't think at all the Rafe was a "devil in the saddle" - he's way too good of a man to be a devil anywhere at all.
I will go back and read the first book, and want to read the next book in this series.
November 1, 2019
The Devil in the Saddle is a friend to lover story and is one of my favorite tropes. Hallie has just cancelled her wedding after catching her fiancé cheating. Now she is adrift and doesn’t know what to do with her life. She finds herself getting support from her lifelong friend Rafe Fontana. Rafe is helping his father on the Three Rivers Ranch while he waits for his job in Chicago to start. He doesn’t mind helping Hallie figure things out but finds it hard to keep his love for her a secret. Should he finally man up and tell her? What if she doesn’t feel the same and he ruins a good friendship?
Hallie was an interesting character to see develop over the course of the story. She had a lot of growing up to do. Growing up as a rich girl she did what was expected and not necessarily what she wanted to do. Now she has time to think about what she likes and start to take steps to set a plan in motion. I have to admire a person who pulls a plan together gradually to go back to school in order to teach ballet and build a ballet studio. She gets help from old rivals and friends but she does it and makes her feel good about herself for a change. When she starts to notice Rafe in a new light she is tentative to change their friendship status but what does she have to lose if this is the one and only chance to be with him. And when that happens sparks fly. The chemistry is hot and the connection is sweet. I had to hand it to Hallie when she put herself first for a change instead of pursuing a relationship with Rafe. She wanted him to be there for her and no other reason. It was a gutsy move and it turned out wonderful in the end.
Rafe was a man of many layers. You know the saying still waters run deep. That is Rafe to a tee. He’s an ex-Army Ranger, a part-time cowboy ranch hand, and a caretaker for his family and friends. He puts his needs second for his family and does what he can to support them. When Hallie becomes single he isn’t sure what to do at first since he knew she was out of his league and he was only the hired help. When he decides to come forward and let the chips fall where they may, he can’t believe how right it feels to be with Hallie. Rafe made a few changes himself and realized that the job in Chicago isn’t exactly what he wants anymore. Being with Hallie changed things. It took some time to get over this feeling of not being good enough but he had some help to understand that what they had together was meant to be.
One of the things I loved about this story is the ease in which the author made the transition from friend to lover. Based on a childhood friendship they had a comfortableness between Hallie and Rafe that allowed the intimacy to grow. The Devil in the Saddle is a fun, sweet story and an enjoyable read. I’m looking forward to older brother Nate’s story.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Hallie was an interesting character to see develop over the course of the story. She had a lot of growing up to do. Growing up as a rich girl she did what was expected and not necessarily what she wanted to do. Now she has time to think about what she likes and start to take steps to set a plan in motion. I have to admire a person who pulls a plan together gradually to go back to school in order to teach ballet and build a ballet studio. She gets help from old rivals and friends but she does it and makes her feel good about herself for a change. When she starts to notice Rafe in a new light she is tentative to change their friendship status but what does she have to lose if this is the one and only chance to be with him. And when that happens sparks fly. The chemistry is hot and the connection is sweet. I had to hand it to Hallie when she put herself first for a change instead of pursuing a relationship with Rafe. She wanted him to be there for her and no other reason. It was a gutsy move and it turned out wonderful in the end.
Rafe was a man of many layers. You know the saying still waters run deep. That is Rafe to a tee. He’s an ex-Army Ranger, a part-time cowboy ranch hand, and a caretaker for his family and friends. He puts his needs second for his family and does what he can to support them. When Hallie becomes single he isn’t sure what to do at first since he knew she was out of his league and he was only the hired help. When he decides to come forward and let the chips fall where they may, he can’t believe how right it feels to be with Hallie. Rafe made a few changes himself and realized that the job in Chicago isn’t exactly what he wants anymore. Being with Hallie changed things. It took some time to get over this feeling of not being good enough but he had some help to understand that what they had together was meant to be.
One of the things I loved about this story is the ease in which the author made the transition from friend to lover. Based on a childhood friendship they had a comfortableness between Hallie and Rafe that allowed the intimacy to grow. The Devil in the Saddle is a fun, sweet story and an enjoyable read. I’m looking forward to older brother Nate’s story.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
October 23, 2019
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog: https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....
If you haven't yet started this series I have no clue why not. It's been so good so far. I love flawed families. I think because who's isn't? I don't want the perfect family all the time, sometimes I want to ones that are so messed up you wonder why they get up in the morning.
The Princes have whats called 'rich peoples problems'. At the moment they aren't as rich as they thought they were but they are also not poor either.
This is the second book in the Princes of Texas series and I just loved it. Maybe even more than the first book. I'm really not sure. In this one, Hallie has called off her wedding for good reasons. Even with those good reasons shes still very unhappy. Sad really. But who walks into her life and makes her happy but Rafe.
What I loved so much about this book is the fact that these two have been in love with each other for a very long time and one of them hasn't even realized it. That's Hallie by the way. I know, we are so used to the guy not know. Not in this case.
I did feel bad for Rafe because he knew he loved her and had to deal with her having a life that wasn't with him. Of course, he's the son of the help so how would these two ever really be able to fall in love.
You see touches of Hallie loving him too when you realize just how close they are. She talks to him a lot, he's there when she needs someone. She also sent him care packages when he was away for the military. He was often in her thoughts. Let she didn't know she was in love. This is the stuff that makes a good romance story.
When these two finally decide to get together neither family is happy about it. It's crazy that her family came around quicker than his. Silly how things like that work. There are a lots of ups and downs for them and at one point you wonder if it will ever happen then you remember this is a romance so there will be an HEA.
I'm so glad I took the time to read The Devil in the Saddle. I loved visiting with the Prince family. Mom and grandma will crack you up! I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
Follow me on:
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ARC received for an honest review
If you haven't yet started this series I have no clue why not. It's been so good so far. I love flawed families. I think because who's isn't? I don't want the perfect family all the time, sometimes I want to ones that are so messed up you wonder why they get up in the morning.
The Princes have whats called 'rich peoples problems'. At the moment they aren't as rich as they thought they were but they are also not poor either.
This is the second book in the Princes of Texas series and I just loved it. Maybe even more than the first book. I'm really not sure. In this one, Hallie has called off her wedding for good reasons. Even with those good reasons shes still very unhappy. Sad really. But who walks into her life and makes her happy but Rafe.
What I loved so much about this book is the fact that these two have been in love with each other for a very long time and one of them hasn't even realized it. That's Hallie by the way. I know, we are so used to the guy not know. Not in this case.
I did feel bad for Rafe because he knew he loved her and had to deal with her having a life that wasn't with him. Of course, he's the son of the help so how would these two ever really be able to fall in love.
You see touches of Hallie loving him too when you realize just how close they are. She talks to him a lot, he's there when she needs someone. She also sent him care packages when he was away for the military. He was often in her thoughts. Let she didn't know she was in love. This is the stuff that makes a good romance story.
When these two finally decide to get together neither family is happy about it. It's crazy that her family came around quicker than his. Silly how things like that work. There are a lots of ups and downs for them and at one point you wonder if it will ever happen then you remember this is a romance so there will be an HEA.
I'm so glad I took the time to read The Devil in the Saddle. I loved visiting with the Prince family. Mom and grandma will crack you up! I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
Follow me on:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
https://twitter.com/Romancingreader
ARC received for an honest review
October 14, 2019
I received an ARC of this book to read through NetGalley in exchange for a fair review. The Devil in the Saddle is the second book in Julia London’s contemporary cowboy series The Princes of Texas. Hallie Prince is at a crossroads with plans for the wedding of the year in ruin after she catches her fiancé in bed with her bridesmaid while still grieving the the loss of her father. She feels like a failure at everything she’s attempted and is unsure of what to do next. When her childhood best friend Rafe Fontana rescues her from a drunken disaster in the making she begins to see him in a new light, but Rafe has a secret and plans that will take him away from Texas to Chicago. I enjoyed this story with it’s theme of starting over and finding your dream and if things go well, love along the way. Medium Steam Publishing Date October 29, 2019.
#NetGalley #TheDevilInTheSaddle #JuliaLondon #BerkleyPublishingGroup #Bookstagram #CowboyRomance #ContemporaryRomance
#NetGalley #TheDevilInTheSaddle #JuliaLondon #BerkleyPublishingGroup #Bookstagram #CowboyRomance #ContemporaryRomance
August 8, 2019
Rafe's woman doesn't need to speak more than once, “what are we doing on the floor? We should find a bed.” He stared down at her with surprise. Yes, a bed. A big bed so they could roll all over it. He stood up, then reached down and picked her up off the ground, swinging her up into his arms." Rafe is a sentimental mam, "...and I don’t want to ravish you in your childhood room. Or mine. Or in a car. I want to ravish you in a soft bed with clean sheets.” I liked this book, I loved Rafe.
October 28, 2019
3.5 stars
I had read the previous book in this series and enjoyed the characters, so I was eager for this one.
I liked Hallie and Rafe well enough. They’re both good, honorable people and I liked their history together. They had some great chemistry and I loved reading them figure out how a new facet to their friendship would work. Of course, Grandma Dolly stole everything and it was delightful to see Luca again.
Plot wise, it was a bit dramatic. Lots of push and pull, loads of inner monologue, and a few plot threads that seemed to be added as an afterthought. I would have liked to see more conversations instead of them basically hoping the other person would just know what was needed or wanted.
Overall, again it was the characters who kept me reading. It was easy to root for Hallie and Rafe and I hope we get to see more of their HEA in the next book.
**Huge thanks to Berkley Books for providing the arc free of charge**
I had read the previous book in this series and enjoyed the characters, so I was eager for this one.
I liked Hallie and Rafe well enough. They’re both good, honorable people and I liked their history together. They had some great chemistry and I loved reading them figure out how a new facet to their friendship would work. Of course, Grandma Dolly stole everything and it was delightful to see Luca again.
Plot wise, it was a bit dramatic. Lots of push and pull, loads of inner monologue, and a few plot threads that seemed to be added as an afterthought. I would have liked to see more conversations instead of them basically hoping the other person would just know what was needed or wanted.
Overall, again it was the characters who kept me reading. It was easy to root for Hallie and Rafe and I hope we get to see more of their HEA in the next book.
**Huge thanks to Berkley Books for providing the arc free of charge**
November 8, 2019
https://openbooksociety.com/article/t...
The Devil in the Saddle
Princes of Texas, Book #2
by Julia London
ISBN: 9780451492371
Author Website: julialondon(.)com
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Caro
Synopsis:
No one cheats on a Prince and gets away with it. And Hallie–Texas socialite, would-be ballerina, and the only daughter of Cimarron County’s renowned Prince family–is ready to give her two-timing fiance a piece of her mind. But fate plants hot, sexy ranch hand and ex-Army Ranger Rafael Fontana quite literally in her way. Her childhood friend is all grown up. He’s sexy, he’s handsome, and suddenly, after all these years, Hallie is taking notice.
Rafe has been in love with Hallie since they were kids, but he was always the help–and she was glamorous and popular, seemingly off-limits to a lowly cowboy. But now he’s back at Three Rivers Ranch to help his family and Hallie is there too–and she needs his support. Of course, Rafe agrees, but soon long-buried feelings boil to the surface, and the desire between them is hot and palpable and undeniable. Rafe realizes he wants Hallie for keeps… he just has to convince her to give true love another shot.
Review:
There cannot be a better follow up book to The Charmer in Chaps than The Devil in the Saddle. In the previous book, readers hardly got a glimpse into Hallie Prince’s character. The reader is briefly introduced to her as Luca’s twin sister that will be getting married soon. Now, in her own book, readers can dive deep and get to know the kind of girl Hallie really is.
“The dreams that happen just before waking, the ones that take weird turns into hippie-dippie landscapes, are the strangest of all.”
To begin off with, Hallie is no longer engaged. Her fiance cheated on her with one of her bridesmaids. The event reminds her of what her mother went through with her father and
Hallie does not desire to live that kind of life. Her fiance insists that he made a mistake and that it won’t happen again, stating that the distance between them drove him to his actions. Hallie’s past family’s experiences make up her mind and she breaks up her engagement and contact with her fiance. She also comes to realize that all he was looking for was a trophy-wife.
With no more wedding and new found time on her hands, Hallie takes advantage of a college email encouraging students to finish their degrees, to go back to school, and pursue their passion. She receives little support from her family but finds a great ally on her childhood friend Rafe. Rafe who is starting his new life after the military is back home for a while to help around the ranch. He has always had a crush on Hallie, but social statues always held him back from being anything more than a friend. Now, with Hallie’s new life maybe there’s a chance of something more.
I loved this book! As soon as I started reading it, I felt compelled by Hallie. She was going through all these emotional stages and I was there with her. After ending her engagement she was lost for a moment but found a great way to overcome it. And I liked that she realized that drinking was not the way to overcome a situation like hers. I also enjoyed the direction the author took her character. Hallie found the best ways to continue with her life and deal with how her ex-fiance was reacting.
“[…] You’re my sister, and I love you and I want to help you and I don’t like to see you hurt. It kills me.”
“I’m not a big fan of being hurt, either, but I’m over it. Now I’m just filled with rage and a very strong desire to be different. Plus, my instagram page is going viral and I need to add some stuff before I lose my audience.”
I also liked the chemistry and mischievousness between Hallie and Rafe. He knew what kind of person she was and always tried to make her see how good she was and her true talent. I was a little worried about how Hallie’s mother would react to her choices but Mrs. Prince is turning out to be a box of surprises. I’m interested in seeing her character develop in the next book. Mrs. Prince needs some peace in her life as well. And let us not forget the Prince’s grandmother, she is hilarious as ever! I want to go shopping with her to Walmart 🙂
This book was amazing from start to end. Hallie lost her father, her fiance, her relationship with her mother isn’t the best but they’re working on it, she had no job or a backup plan, but at the end everything worked out in an interesting sort of way. And Rafe is the best support she could have asked for. If you are not reading the Princes of Texas series, you are missing out on some great characters and a hilarious grandma.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
The Devil in the Saddle
Princes of Texas, Book #2
by Julia London
ISBN: 9780451492371
Author Website: julialondon(.)com
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Caro
Synopsis:
No one cheats on a Prince and gets away with it. And Hallie–Texas socialite, would-be ballerina, and the only daughter of Cimarron County’s renowned Prince family–is ready to give her two-timing fiance a piece of her mind. But fate plants hot, sexy ranch hand and ex-Army Ranger Rafael Fontana quite literally in her way. Her childhood friend is all grown up. He’s sexy, he’s handsome, and suddenly, after all these years, Hallie is taking notice.
Rafe has been in love with Hallie since they were kids, but he was always the help–and she was glamorous and popular, seemingly off-limits to a lowly cowboy. But now he’s back at Three Rivers Ranch to help his family and Hallie is there too–and she needs his support. Of course, Rafe agrees, but soon long-buried feelings boil to the surface, and the desire between them is hot and palpable and undeniable. Rafe realizes he wants Hallie for keeps… he just has to convince her to give true love another shot.
Review:
There cannot be a better follow up book to The Charmer in Chaps than The Devil in the Saddle. In the previous book, readers hardly got a glimpse into Hallie Prince’s character. The reader is briefly introduced to her as Luca’s twin sister that will be getting married soon. Now, in her own book, readers can dive deep and get to know the kind of girl Hallie really is.
“The dreams that happen just before waking, the ones that take weird turns into hippie-dippie landscapes, are the strangest of all.”
To begin off with, Hallie is no longer engaged. Her fiance cheated on her with one of her bridesmaids. The event reminds her of what her mother went through with her father and
Hallie does not desire to live that kind of life. Her fiance insists that he made a mistake and that it won’t happen again, stating that the distance between them drove him to his actions. Hallie’s past family’s experiences make up her mind and she breaks up her engagement and contact with her fiance. She also comes to realize that all he was looking for was a trophy-wife.
With no more wedding and new found time on her hands, Hallie takes advantage of a college email encouraging students to finish their degrees, to go back to school, and pursue their passion. She receives little support from her family but finds a great ally on her childhood friend Rafe. Rafe who is starting his new life after the military is back home for a while to help around the ranch. He has always had a crush on Hallie, but social statues always held him back from being anything more than a friend. Now, with Hallie’s new life maybe there’s a chance of something more.
I loved this book! As soon as I started reading it, I felt compelled by Hallie. She was going through all these emotional stages and I was there with her. After ending her engagement she was lost for a moment but found a great way to overcome it. And I liked that she realized that drinking was not the way to overcome a situation like hers. I also enjoyed the direction the author took her character. Hallie found the best ways to continue with her life and deal with how her ex-fiance was reacting.
“[…] You’re my sister, and I love you and I want to help you and I don’t like to see you hurt. It kills me.”
“I’m not a big fan of being hurt, either, but I’m over it. Now I’m just filled with rage and a very strong desire to be different. Plus, my instagram page is going viral and I need to add some stuff before I lose my audience.”
I also liked the chemistry and mischievousness between Hallie and Rafe. He knew what kind of person she was and always tried to make her see how good she was and her true talent. I was a little worried about how Hallie’s mother would react to her choices but Mrs. Prince is turning out to be a box of surprises. I’m interested in seeing her character develop in the next book. Mrs. Prince needs some peace in her life as well. And let us not forget the Prince’s grandmother, she is hilarious as ever! I want to go shopping with her to Walmart 🙂
This book was amazing from start to end. Hallie lost her father, her fiance, her relationship with her mother isn’t the best but they’re working on it, she had no job or a backup plan, but at the end everything worked out in an interesting sort of way. And Rafe is the best support she could have asked for. If you are not reading the Princes of Texas series, you are missing out on some great characters and a hilarious grandma.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
October 29, 2019
The Devil in the Saddle by Julia London is the 2nd book in her Princes of Texas series. Hallie Prince, our heroine, is a socialite daughter of the renowned Prince family, who in the first book lost their patriarch and the family has been living in hard times due the father’s gambling debts. Hallie recently broke off her engagement to her cheating ex fiancée, and has been totally in disarray, even drinking, which is not her norm. But when her best friend since childhood returns home, she immediately begins to perk up.
Rafe Fontana, our hero and an ex army ranger, returns to of Cimarron County and the Three Rivers Ranch, where his father helps run the Prince ranch. He runs into Hallie, who happily embraces Rafe, but he has a secret he will never tell her…he has always been in love with her. Rafe is a gorgeous hunk, with a smile that would melt anyone; but Hallie has always looked at him just as a friend. But now that she has broken off her engagement, she has begun to look at Rafe in a different light. Rafe enjoys being with Hallie, but plans to leave for a new business in Chicago; as he cannot stay near her, knowing that he loves her, and feels he is beneath her.
Hallie was a bit spoiled early on, but she was also a riot, especially when she puts on Instagram pictures of her destroying her wedding invitations, gown, shoes, etc. It becomes a very popular site, and also brings back her ex trying to win her back. But once cheated on, Hallie will never take him back. Hallie is determined to find herself, and along the way she totally changes, and embarks on possibility resuming her ballerina dance lessons to start her own business in training children. When she starts to feel the strong attraction to Rafe, they will both eventually succumb to their feelings, but she doesn’t understand why Rafe pulls away.
What follows was a sweet, heartwarming, fun romance between two people destined to live other lives. Hallie and Rafe were a great couple, and their chemistry was hot. Throughout the story though, we didn’t see any chance for them to find a way to stay together, but fate always wins. Rafe was a wonderful hero, always there for Hallie, even if he felt she deserved better. It was great to see Hallie begin to change and discover what she has been missing is right in front of her. Will the two find a way to stay together?
The Devil in the Saddle (why that title??) was a perfect small town romance that Julia London does so well. I suggest you read this series, and start with the first book, The Charmer in Chaps.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
Rafe Fontana, our hero and an ex army ranger, returns to of Cimarron County and the Three Rivers Ranch, where his father helps run the Prince ranch. He runs into Hallie, who happily embraces Rafe, but he has a secret he will never tell her…he has always been in love with her. Rafe is a gorgeous hunk, with a smile that would melt anyone; but Hallie has always looked at him just as a friend. But now that she has broken off her engagement, she has begun to look at Rafe in a different light. Rafe enjoys being with Hallie, but plans to leave for a new business in Chicago; as he cannot stay near her, knowing that he loves her, and feels he is beneath her.
Hallie was a bit spoiled early on, but she was also a riot, especially when she puts on Instagram pictures of her destroying her wedding invitations, gown, shoes, etc. It becomes a very popular site, and also brings back her ex trying to win her back. But once cheated on, Hallie will never take him back. Hallie is determined to find herself, and along the way she totally changes, and embarks on possibility resuming her ballerina dance lessons to start her own business in training children. When she starts to feel the strong attraction to Rafe, they will both eventually succumb to their feelings, but she doesn’t understand why Rafe pulls away.
What follows was a sweet, heartwarming, fun romance between two people destined to live other lives. Hallie and Rafe were a great couple, and their chemistry was hot. Throughout the story though, we didn’t see any chance for them to find a way to stay together, but fate always wins. Rafe was a wonderful hero, always there for Hallie, even if he felt she deserved better. It was great to see Hallie begin to change and discover what she has been missing is right in front of her. Will the two find a way to stay together?
The Devil in the Saddle (why that title??) was a perfect small town romance that Julia London does so well. I suggest you read this series, and start with the first book, The Charmer in Chaps.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
April 3, 2020
Hallie Prince socialite, would be ballerina, and the love of Rafe Fontana's life. Just ditched her cheating fiancee, Chris. Called a no-go on what was slated to the social event of the century. A.k.a. her wedding. And can't remember trying to drive to Houston. While blitzed out of her mind on Tequila.
But to him...
She is just as perfect as ever.
The trouble. He doesn't think that he is good enough for her.
Even though he knows her like the back of his hand. Loves her with his whole heart. And has been in her life for the majority of his.
Now the sexy ex-Army Ranger is once again working at the Prince family ranch. And is ready and able to support her in whatever way she needs. But he still can't help feeling that his "working-class white night just doesn't measure up to her "platinum princess."
This second offering in Julia London's Princes Of Texas series. Is steam up your eyeballs sexy. Full of more romantic angst than the best soap opera. And bound to send readers into face splitting grins more than a time or two.
Watching Hallie and Rafe cat and mouse their way to forever. As Rafe proves time and time again that his strong, honest, compassionate, and unflappable brand of hero is more than tailor-made for Hallie's unique damsel in distress.
Is more than worth the price of admission to the show.
The real issue here however. Rafe's coming to the same conclusion about himself before it's too late.
This is an awesome one-sitting wonder of a sequel. And this reviewer is literally chomping at the bit for more from the Princes Of Texas.
I received a copy of the above referenced work. In exchange for the honest review provided. My thanks to Berkley Books.
But to him...
She is just as perfect as ever.
The trouble. He doesn't think that he is good enough for her.
Even though he knows her like the back of his hand. Loves her with his whole heart. And has been in her life for the majority of his.
Now the sexy ex-Army Ranger is once again working at the Prince family ranch. And is ready and able to support her in whatever way she needs. But he still can't help feeling that his "working-class white night just doesn't measure up to her "platinum princess."
This second offering in Julia London's Princes Of Texas series. Is steam up your eyeballs sexy. Full of more romantic angst than the best soap opera. And bound to send readers into face splitting grins more than a time or two.
Watching Hallie and Rafe cat and mouse their way to forever. As Rafe proves time and time again that his strong, honest, compassionate, and unflappable brand of hero is more than tailor-made for Hallie's unique damsel in distress.
Is more than worth the price of admission to the show.
The real issue here however. Rafe's coming to the same conclusion about himself before it's too late.
This is an awesome one-sitting wonder of a sequel. And this reviewer is literally chomping at the bit for more from the Princes Of Texas.
I received a copy of the above referenced work. In exchange for the honest review provided. My thanks to Berkley Books.
February 27, 2021
Hallie has caught her soon to be husband in bed with her best friend. Now the wedding has been called off and Hallie realizes that she has been doing everything to please her ex. She really has lost herself in all of that. Now she is doing some crazy things to find herself. Rafe has always loved Hallie. His family is the hired help and so he will keep his distance and keep his mouth shut. He has something he has been doing with some friends up in Chicago. It will keep him away from Hallie and a whole bunch of heartache. The problem is, he doesn't want to stay away from Hallie. After a wild few days in Colorado, Hallie knows that she loves Rafe, but he keeps his distance. Hallie has a surprise for Rafe, but she wants to be sure that Rafe really loves her. She wants to be with him forever and he feels the same way. Will they tell each other? Can they overcome their families?
September 9, 2019
Hallie Prince is the princess of the Prince clan but ever since her father died she's been restless. She broke her engagement when she walked in on her fiance and one of the bridesmaids and has been drifting since then. Rafe is Hallie's lifelong friend, son of the ranch majordomo, former Army Ranger and general good guy. He splits his time between Chicago and San Antonio where he's working on a project with some fellow vets. Hallie doesn't know what she's supposed to do in life. She starts projects and doesn't finish them. She needs a purpose. Rafe helps her see that she has a lot to offer. She just needs to follow through. Oh and he's been in love with her his entire life. He decides her can't tell her because his father works for her family. Hallie finds her groove but is it too late for them to be together? Rafe returns to Chicago to finish his project but his heart isn't in it any longer. A great second book in the series.
November 1, 2019
This was a fun cowboy romance. There was a plot point in the last 50 pages that I just hated, though.
Spoiler:
Spoiler:
January 1, 2020
Loved this book so much! I guess it's because of the friends to lovers thing. If I can give a .5 rating, I'd give this a 4.5.
October 31, 2019
2.5
Publishers Weekly just named this one of 2019's best romances, describing it as an "interracial, friends-to-lovers story that turns typical romance novel power dynamics on their head." That description intrigued me, so I picked it up and gave it a read, despite not having been all that impressed by London's historical romances. Unfortunately, I found Devil hardly lived up to this description, or to its title, given that its male protagonist, Rafe Fontana, is a quiet do-gooder type, not a devil at all. Or perhaps the title is meant to refer to the female protagonist, Hallie Prince??
Hallie hails from an extremely wealthy family, and is on the verge of making a big splash at her high society wedding to a handsome heart surgeon. But after catching her fiancé in bed with one of her bridesmaids, Hallie has called off the wedding, returned to her family's Texas ranch/mansion, and spends most of her time whining and complaining about her life, especially to her former best friend Rafe. Though we, like Rafe, are supposed to admire Hallie for her kindness and sunny spirits, her immaturity and lack of awareness of her own privilege just grated.
Hallie is a totally clueless type, with absolutely no idea that Rafe, two years older than she is, has been quietly, desperately in love with her ever since they were 12 and ten. But because his father works as the "majordomo" (?) for the wealthy Prince family, Rafe's always believed that a relationship between himself and Hallie is impossible. Rafe joined the army to escape the pain of his unrequited love; now that he's left the military, he's made plans to move to Chicago to start a charity for underprivileged kids once he's finished with his social work degree.
Hallie gradually begins to figure out that she's been living her life for other people's expectations, and takes small steps to break free of them (her Instagram campaign, "Deconstructing a High Society Wedding," is quite funny). And she begins to wonder if the long glances she and Rafe have been exchanging of late, and the electric sparks whenever they touch, might mean that they are meant to be more than just best friends.
Hallie's obliviousness, both to other people's emotions and to her own privilege, annoyed the heck out of me. She's hardly a model of an actively feminist character throughout much of the book; only at book's end, when she finally decides to find out what she really wants, and to stop relying so heavily on her family and Rafe, does she finally show a bit of independence and strength.
The "interracial" aspect of the book is very lightly sketched; Rafe describes himself as "Hispanic," rather than pointing to the particular country/culture/heritage from which his family hails, and there is very little suggesting that the Fontana family differs culturally from the Prince family besides a few mentions of Latino foods. Class, not race or ethnicity or culture, is presented as the differentiating factor here, a factor that the story suggests is easily overcome.
Does the "turning typical romance power dynamics on their head" refer to the fact that it is Hallie who is reluctant to give up her life and follow Rafe to Chicago after he declares his feelings and the start a sexual relationship? I really am not sure. And I wasn't at all sure why Hallie and Rafe decide to break up near the end of the book, either, without even having a conversation about the possibility of a temporary long-distance relationship—seemed more in the interest of just extending the plot/angst than based on any sensible reason.
I also found Hallie's mother, Delia, who is still mourning the death of her philandering husband, and who tells Hallie that he was still the man for her even in spite of his constant cheating, offputting. Have a little self-respect, why don't you?
The friendship/enemy-ship between Delia and her mother-in-law, the foul-mouthed wisecracking Dolly, was played for laughs but didn't appeal to my sense of humor. Dolly is the stereotyped comic relief here, rather than a fleshed-out human being.
All in all, not a book that will be on my "Best of 2018" list.
Publishers Weekly just named this one of 2019's best romances, describing it as an "interracial, friends-to-lovers story that turns typical romance novel power dynamics on their head." That description intrigued me, so I picked it up and gave it a read, despite not having been all that impressed by London's historical romances. Unfortunately, I found Devil hardly lived up to this description, or to its title, given that its male protagonist, Rafe Fontana, is a quiet do-gooder type, not a devil at all. Or perhaps the title is meant to refer to the female protagonist, Hallie Prince??
Hallie hails from an extremely wealthy family, and is on the verge of making a big splash at her high society wedding to a handsome heart surgeon. But after catching her fiancé in bed with one of her bridesmaids, Hallie has called off the wedding, returned to her family's Texas ranch/mansion, and spends most of her time whining and complaining about her life, especially to her former best friend Rafe. Though we, like Rafe, are supposed to admire Hallie for her kindness and sunny spirits, her immaturity and lack of awareness of her own privilege just grated.
Hallie is a totally clueless type, with absolutely no idea that Rafe, two years older than she is, has been quietly, desperately in love with her ever since they were 12 and ten. But because his father works as the "majordomo" (?) for the wealthy Prince family, Rafe's always believed that a relationship between himself and Hallie is impossible. Rafe joined the army to escape the pain of his unrequited love; now that he's left the military, he's made plans to move to Chicago to start a charity for underprivileged kids once he's finished with his social work degree.
Hallie gradually begins to figure out that she's been living her life for other people's expectations, and takes small steps to break free of them (her Instagram campaign, "Deconstructing a High Society Wedding," is quite funny). And she begins to wonder if the long glances she and Rafe have been exchanging of late, and the electric sparks whenever they touch, might mean that they are meant to be more than just best friends.
Hallie's obliviousness, both to other people's emotions and to her own privilege, annoyed the heck out of me. She's hardly a model of an actively feminist character throughout much of the book; only at book's end, when she finally decides to find out what she really wants, and to stop relying so heavily on her family and Rafe, does she finally show a bit of independence and strength.
The "interracial" aspect of the book is very lightly sketched; Rafe describes himself as "Hispanic," rather than pointing to the particular country/culture/heritage from which his family hails, and there is very little suggesting that the Fontana family differs culturally from the Prince family besides a few mentions of Latino foods. Class, not race or ethnicity or culture, is presented as the differentiating factor here, a factor that the story suggests is easily overcome.
Does the "turning typical romance power dynamics on their head" refer to the fact that it is Hallie who is reluctant to give up her life and follow Rafe to Chicago after he declares his feelings and the start a sexual relationship? I really am not sure. And I wasn't at all sure why Hallie and Rafe decide to break up near the end of the book, either, without even having a conversation about the possibility of a temporary long-distance relationship—seemed more in the interest of just extending the plot/angst than based on any sensible reason.
I also found Hallie's mother, Delia, who is still mourning the death of her philandering husband, and who tells Hallie that he was still the man for her even in spite of his constant cheating, offputting. Have a little self-respect, why don't you?
The friendship/enemy-ship between Delia and her mother-in-law, the foul-mouthed wisecracking Dolly, was played for laughs but didn't appeal to my sense of humor. Dolly is the stereotyped comic relief here, rather than a fleshed-out human being.
All in all, not a book that will be on my "Best of 2018" list.
September 2, 2019
I just finished reading The Devil In the Chaps and I have to say it was my favorite Julia London book ever. The 2nd in the Princes of Texas series Rafe and Hallie’s book was a heartwarming, romantic, and funny story. The book starts off with laughter at Hallie’s broken engagement and resulting reaction, then onto a friendship that has stood the test of time, to long time secret love. I hated to see this story end, but know that it will continue into The Billionaire in Boots, Nick Princes story and I can’t wait. This is a must read book if you love Julia London as much as I do!
August 16, 2019
I loved The Devil in the Saddle. Julia London creates the most loveable characters in this story. Hallie is finding herself. Being a Texas socialite isn't working for her. Her father's death and the financial fall out makes living the easy life much harder and her breakup with her cheating fiance makes her rethink her life of volunteerism and shopping.
Rafe has worked hard. He's been special forces in the Army, is finishing his college degree, setting up a charity and helping his dad on the Prince ranch. He's been in love with Hallie forever. He's so determined that he doesn't measure up in her world or eyes that he's his own worse enemy when it comes to building a relationship with Hallie.
Hallie is torn between her love of Rafe and her need to determine who she is and find her passion in life. With a couple of slow starts she does find find what she wants to do and who she wants to be. Now it's time to convince Rafe that they should be together.
I laughed, I cried (more than once) and was so glad to see these two get their HEA.
Rafe has worked hard. He's been special forces in the Army, is finishing his college degree, setting up a charity and helping his dad on the Prince ranch. He's been in love with Hallie forever. He's so determined that he doesn't measure up in her world or eyes that he's his own worse enemy when it comes to building a relationship with Hallie.
Hallie is torn between her love of Rafe and her need to determine who she is and find her passion in life. With a couple of slow starts she does find find what she wants to do and who she wants to be. Now it's time to convince Rafe that they should be together.
I laughed, I cried (more than once) and was so glad to see these two get their HEA.
November 4, 2019
The Devil in the Saddle is the second book in the Princes of Texas series by Julia London, it can be read as a stand alone, and revolves around the story of Hallie and Rafe.
Hallie Prince, a well-known Texas socialite, has called off her high society wedding after finding her husband in bed with one of her bridesmaids. She decided to escape society for a bit and camp out at her family’s mansion in the county where she is delighted to find that one of her closest friends is back in town.
Rafael Fontana is an ex-Army Ranger who is back in his hometown to help out his dad at the Prince ranch. Rafe has been in love with Hallie for as long as he can remember, but he has always held back since him and his family are technically the “help”. Hallie and Rafe get back into their old best friends rhythm and both begin to notice the subtle change in their relationship and the new sexual tension that is getting harder to ignore.
This was my first Julia London novel and it was okay. Okay is the best way that I can describe this book. When it came time for me to write this review, I had in all honestly forgotten what it was even really about, and had to go back and read through the first bit to remind myself. That in itself should tell you a lot about the book. It is good, but to me it just was not very captivating, I read it and then went away and immediately forgot all about it. There is nothing inherently wrong with any of the characters or the writing, but it was all just a bit blah to me.
I liked Hallie a lot, even though she really is a big spoiled brat in the beginning. But this is to be expected from the only female child of an extremely wealthy southern family. Even with her not quite realizing her privilege, I think she really grew as a person throughout the course of the story. She went from being dependent on others to starting to value herself as a person and respect her own wishes for her future. I also liked Rafe, he was the sort of guy that I don’t think actually exist in real life: quiet, very handsome, can work with his hands to fix things, and was very nice. I did not really know who exactly the “devil in the saddle” was supposed to be in this story, as Rafe is quiet the angel and Hallie is not really devilish herself. Even though Rafe has always known that he has loved Hallie, I enjoyed going on the journey with Hallie as she slowly discovered the same for herself.
Overall, the story is a good one, but just a bit bland for me. Nothing really stood out as extraordinary but nothing was really terrible about it either. I recommend if you are just looking for a nice and easy read.
~ Harshita
Hallie Prince, a well-known Texas socialite, has called off her high society wedding after finding her husband in bed with one of her bridesmaids. She decided to escape society for a bit and camp out at her family’s mansion in the county where she is delighted to find that one of her closest friends is back in town.
Rafael Fontana is an ex-Army Ranger who is back in his hometown to help out his dad at the Prince ranch. Rafe has been in love with Hallie for as long as he can remember, but he has always held back since him and his family are technically the “help”. Hallie and Rafe get back into their old best friends rhythm and both begin to notice the subtle change in their relationship and the new sexual tension that is getting harder to ignore.
This was my first Julia London novel and it was okay. Okay is the best way that I can describe this book. When it came time for me to write this review, I had in all honestly forgotten what it was even really about, and had to go back and read through the first bit to remind myself. That in itself should tell you a lot about the book. It is good, but to me it just was not very captivating, I read it and then went away and immediately forgot all about it. There is nothing inherently wrong with any of the characters or the writing, but it was all just a bit blah to me.
I liked Hallie a lot, even though she really is a big spoiled brat in the beginning. But this is to be expected from the only female child of an extremely wealthy southern family. Even with her not quite realizing her privilege, I think she really grew as a person throughout the course of the story. She went from being dependent on others to starting to value herself as a person and respect her own wishes for her future. I also liked Rafe, he was the sort of guy that I don’t think actually exist in real life: quiet, very handsome, can work with his hands to fix things, and was very nice. I did not really know who exactly the “devil in the saddle” was supposed to be in this story, as Rafe is quiet the angel and Hallie is not really devilish herself. Even though Rafe has always known that he has loved Hallie, I enjoyed going on the journey with Hallie as she slowly discovered the same for herself.
Overall, the story is a good one, but just a bit bland for me. Nothing really stood out as extraordinary but nothing was really terrible about it either. I recommend if you are just looking for a nice and easy read.
~ Harshita
October 29, 2019
How lucky was I to get an ARC of Devil In The Saddle? This is the second in Julia London’s Princes of Texas series and it’s every bit as good as the first. I was grinning like a loon before I’d even finished the first page of this story. It is oner of those books that has the ability to lift your mood immediately thanks not just to the witty conversations that swirl across the pages but also to the situations in which the hero and heroine find themselves in and the imagery that goes along with it.
I loved that Hallie, trained as a ballerina, had difficulty with her posture for running. I also loved that her mother and grandmother, who’d spent most of their lives buying the best that designer labels had to offer them, would find joy in browsing the shelves of Walmart.
Beneath this light and entertaining surface a deeper story unfolds as both Rafe and Hallie deal with self image and perception problems on their road to true love. Hallie has been brought up to be a society wife but struggles with a low sense of self worth as she’s always bowed to the wishes of others and never achieved anything for herself. Rafe is the son of Martin, the property manager of the Prince family ranch. He’s been head over heels in love with Hallie for years but worries that with all the privilege and opportunity Hallie has had she might not consider him good enough for her.
This was one book I wanted to go on forever. Sadly it didn’t but I can look forward to the joy of reading it again and again. Highly recommended.
I loved that Hallie, trained as a ballerina, had difficulty with her posture for running. I also loved that her mother and grandmother, who’d spent most of their lives buying the best that designer labels had to offer them, would find joy in browsing the shelves of Walmart.
Beneath this light and entertaining surface a deeper story unfolds as both Rafe and Hallie deal with self image and perception problems on their road to true love. Hallie has been brought up to be a society wife but struggles with a low sense of self worth as she’s always bowed to the wishes of others and never achieved anything for herself. Rafe is the son of Martin, the property manager of the Prince family ranch. He’s been head over heels in love with Hallie for years but worries that with all the privilege and opportunity Hallie has had she might not consider him good enough for her.
This was one book I wanted to go on forever. Sadly it didn’t but I can look forward to the joy of reading it again and again. Highly recommended.
November 11, 2019
Julia London is an author I haven’t read too much from. She’s very popular and has won many accolades. I have enjoyed every book of hers that I have read but the opportunities have been few for whatever reason. That being said I would definitely recommend her new novel, The Devil in the Saddle. This in the second book in the Princes of Texas series. London brings readers a friends to lovers story that is both heartwarming and steamy. With tons of witty banter and characters that will win your heart, this one is a keeper!
What I liked:
The friends to lovers trope is always a favorite of mine. This is a situation that often happens in real life and I think readers enjoy the idea that hey maybe this could happen to me. It’s easy to relate to and it’s engaging. In Devil in the Saddle our hero, Rafe has always had secret feelings for his long time friend, Hallie. But there seemed to be something standing the way. I thought London did an excellent job of showing how this couples feelings for each other changed over the course of the story. How they moved beyond Rafe being Hallie’s shoulder to cry on, to becoming her support for a new life choice and kept going from there. It wasn’t a slow start at all just a nice easy flow.
One thing that stood out to me about this book is that the story was more than just your run of the mill romance. Hallie is the only daughter in the Prince family, who are practically considered royalty in their Texas community. Rafe is the son of one of the Ranch employees. Readers will feel and understand Rafe’s struggle to see himself as good enough for Hallie because of the social class barriers and the good intentions of those who want to see Hallie marry well. I thought London did a wonderful job showing the reader that it doesn’t matter whether you come from money or from a hard working family, love doesn’t see the obstacles. It sees the possibilities.
Hallie has really been through the wringer when this book begins. After a hard night of drinking tequila and sleeping in her fancy wedding gown, she finds herself rescued by her long time friend, Rafe. She’s been through a lot from losing her father to getting rid of her cheating fiancé . I loved the way Hallie took some time. She pulled herself together and decided to move on with her life much to the chagrin of her family. Her choices aren’t what they want but Rafes support allows her safety while she redefines her dreams. Loved that aspect of the story! London fosters the idea that it is up to you to change your life both in Hallie’s story and in Rafe’s.
What I didn’t:
At first our heroine doesn’t come off as a sweet Texas girl. She’s a little bit spoiled. A little bit catty. And a whole lot of trouble. Some readers may have a hard time deciding if they like Hallie. But give it some time. Believe me, she grows on you and she grows up.
Rafe was a great character in every way but it did take him a little while to get out of his own way. Yes, he’s the employee and she’s the bosses daughter but in 2019, does that really matter? Sometimes I wonder...
Bottom Line:
Julia London is a great writer! This book had a good storyline. The characters were believable, their struggles palpable. The character growth throughout the book was excellent. I felt like it wasn’t predictable nor was it way off base. I’m gonna have read more from this lady... I really enjoyed this one!
What I liked:
The friends to lovers trope is always a favorite of mine. This is a situation that often happens in real life and I think readers enjoy the idea that hey maybe this could happen to me. It’s easy to relate to and it’s engaging. In Devil in the Saddle our hero, Rafe has always had secret feelings for his long time friend, Hallie. But there seemed to be something standing the way. I thought London did an excellent job of showing how this couples feelings for each other changed over the course of the story. How they moved beyond Rafe being Hallie’s shoulder to cry on, to becoming her support for a new life choice and kept going from there. It wasn’t a slow start at all just a nice easy flow.
One thing that stood out to me about this book is that the story was more than just your run of the mill romance. Hallie is the only daughter in the Prince family, who are practically considered royalty in their Texas community. Rafe is the son of one of the Ranch employees. Readers will feel and understand Rafe’s struggle to see himself as good enough for Hallie because of the social class barriers and the good intentions of those who want to see Hallie marry well. I thought London did a wonderful job showing the reader that it doesn’t matter whether you come from money or from a hard working family, love doesn’t see the obstacles. It sees the possibilities.
Hallie has really been through the wringer when this book begins. After a hard night of drinking tequila and sleeping in her fancy wedding gown, she finds herself rescued by her long time friend, Rafe. She’s been through a lot from losing her father to getting rid of her cheating fiancé . I loved the way Hallie took some time. She pulled herself together and decided to move on with her life much to the chagrin of her family. Her choices aren’t what they want but Rafes support allows her safety while she redefines her dreams. Loved that aspect of the story! London fosters the idea that it is up to you to change your life both in Hallie’s story and in Rafe’s.
What I didn’t:
At first our heroine doesn’t come off as a sweet Texas girl. She’s a little bit spoiled. A little bit catty. And a whole lot of trouble. Some readers may have a hard time deciding if they like Hallie. But give it some time. Believe me, she grows on you and she grows up.
Rafe was a great character in every way but it did take him a little while to get out of his own way. Yes, he’s the employee and she’s the bosses daughter but in 2019, does that really matter? Sometimes I wonder...
Bottom Line:
Julia London is a great writer! This book had a good storyline. The characters were believable, their struggles palpable. The character growth throughout the book was excellent. I felt like it wasn’t predictable nor was it way off base. I’m gonna have read more from this lady... I really enjoyed this one!
October 16, 2019
Hallie Prince thought she life all planned out with a high society wedding to become a doctor’s wife flitting through life as a social butterfly. As the only daughter of a wealthy ranching family, Hallie learned early on what was expected of her in that rarified atmosphere. After having given up her dream of being ballerina, Hallie pinned everything on this relationship. Everything comes crashing down when her fiancé turns out to be a lying cheater. Now Hallie is quite adrift at the family ranch burying her sorrows in ice cream and one particularly bad night, too much tequila.
Rafael Santana, whose father has worked at the Prince ranch his whole life, grew up with Hallie and in all that time, he secretly loved her. Rafael comes to Hallie’s rescue preventing her from driving drunk to go take a piece out of her ex. As Hallie comes out of her funk, she sees Rafe in a new light; however, she has a lot of angsty emotional mess to work through before they could ever be a reality as a couple. Rafe keeps focusing on their societal differences thinking that he could never provide Hallie with the lifestyle she is accustomed to from day one. While they keep bouncing off each other in a complicated dance, desire and strong emotions culminate in a steamy way.
Rafe has his own dreams of taking his newly minted degree in Social Work to help underprivileged kids with some army buddies, but that is proving to be a challenge coupled with some serious family problems, and then there is Hallie. There are several entertaining family members including Hallie’s irascible grandmother and domineering mother. Hallie and Rafe have some very major hurdles to overcome to realize that they are meant for each other. Some of the problems are their own blind-sided stubbornness and Hallie’s lack of emotional maturity. This book is the second in the Princes of Texas series, but can be read as a standalone, the first being The Charmer in Chaps.
Rafael Santana, whose father has worked at the Prince ranch his whole life, grew up with Hallie and in all that time, he secretly loved her. Rafael comes to Hallie’s rescue preventing her from driving drunk to go take a piece out of her ex. As Hallie comes out of her funk, she sees Rafe in a new light; however, she has a lot of angsty emotional mess to work through before they could ever be a reality as a couple. Rafe keeps focusing on their societal differences thinking that he could never provide Hallie with the lifestyle she is accustomed to from day one. While they keep bouncing off each other in a complicated dance, desire and strong emotions culminate in a steamy way.
Rafe has his own dreams of taking his newly minted degree in Social Work to help underprivileged kids with some army buddies, but that is proving to be a challenge coupled with some serious family problems, and then there is Hallie. There are several entertaining family members including Hallie’s irascible grandmother and domineering mother. Hallie and Rafe have some very major hurdles to overcome to realize that they are meant for each other. Some of the problems are their own blind-sided stubbornness and Hallie’s lack of emotional maturity. This book is the second in the Princes of Texas series, but can be read as a standalone, the first being The Charmer in Chaps.
September 27, 2020
I have read this series totally out of order, starting with book 3, but that was never a problem, since enough backstory is provided. The characters could provide a psychiatrist with a full time job, yet they are appealing enough for the reader to care what happens to them. Cordelia Prince and her mother-in-law Dolly are hysterical as they entertain themselves at the family cemetery plot.
Three Rivers Ranch is a large Texas ranch, but after the death of the patriarch, Charlie Prince, it is revealed that he not only was a philanderer, separated from his wife at the time of his death, but also a bad gambler. His family finds themselves land rich but money poor and they are having problems coping. This book is about Hallie. Hallie's dream had been to be a ballerina, but while she had the drive she didn't have the talent. Aimless, she followed her mother's expectation into society and became engaged to a doctor, planning a lavish New Year's Eve wedding, until she walks in on him having sex with her bridesmaid. Now hit with another disappointment, she starts deconstructing her wedding on InstaGram and builds a large following, but she needs to find herself and what she wants to do with her life. Then her best friend from childhood, Rafe Fontana returns from Afghanistan. He has been in loved with Hallie, since she was a little girl, and joined the Rangers to get her out of his mind. Now she needs his support, while he fights to keep them as friends. He is in town, finishing up his degree in social work and then heading to Chicago to start a business with some Army buddies. And then there is that point, where they admit that they love each other and there is still a third of the book left to go, and you realize that there will not be smooth sailing before they get their HEA.
But I still don't know who the devil in the saddle is, as Rafe has always been nothing but kindness and caring.
Three Rivers Ranch is a large Texas ranch, but after the death of the patriarch, Charlie Prince, it is revealed that he not only was a philanderer, separated from his wife at the time of his death, but also a bad gambler. His family finds themselves land rich but money poor and they are having problems coping. This book is about Hallie. Hallie's dream had been to be a ballerina, but while she had the drive she didn't have the talent. Aimless, she followed her mother's expectation into society and became engaged to a doctor, planning a lavish New Year's Eve wedding, until she walks in on him having sex with her bridesmaid. Now hit with another disappointment, she starts deconstructing her wedding on InstaGram and builds a large following, but she needs to find herself and what she wants to do with her life. Then her best friend from childhood, Rafe Fontana returns from Afghanistan. He has been in loved with Hallie, since she was a little girl, and joined the Rangers to get her out of his mind. Now she needs his support, while he fights to keep them as friends. He is in town, finishing up his degree in social work and then heading to Chicago to start a business with some Army buddies. And then there is that point, where they admit that they love each other and there is still a third of the book left to go, and you realize that there will not be smooth sailing before they get their HEA.
But I still don't know who the devil in the saddle is, as Rafe has always been nothing but kindness and caring.
November 12, 2019
The Devil in the Saddle is the second book in the Princes of Texas series by Julia London. The heart of this series is set at the Three Rivers Ranch where stereotypes and family expectations have set the course for decades. Without equal, it’s also one of the best modern romances Ms. London has ever written as she manages to capture the delicate balance of family expectations against being true to oneself. It was such a heartwarming, entertaining story to read.
Hallie Prince is the darling socialite who finds herself totally lost at 30. Her fiancé cheated on her. Her family’s fortune has dwindled. And her Instagram followers love her as she posts a deconstruction of wedding plans via artfully placed yet utterly destroyed wedding items. Hallie wakes up to the reality that her life has been a bit aimless, maybe even selfish. Her constant savior from childhood and best friend, Rafe Fontana serves up a dose of reality and support at the same time. Rafe’s family has worked for the Princes for decades and his life has been a path of leadership, selflessness, and kindness –nicely wrapped up in a hot as heck package. All the while, Rafe kept his love of Hallie a secret with no hope for a happily ever after. Is it time for both of them to turn over a new leaf in life?
While there are some social class undertones with the backdrop of the steadfastness of the Fontana family, this is a rom-com with a ton of humor to be found in the dysfunctional Prince family. Ms. London has beautifully constructed both the Fontana and Prince families with rich, redeemable characters, such that there is much to love and hate at the same time. It’s classic.
This one is a keeper – one that will be read again and again.
I received an ARC of this story. Opinions are my own. I also purchased it!
Hallie Prince is the darling socialite who finds herself totally lost at 30. Her fiancé cheated on her. Her family’s fortune has dwindled. And her Instagram followers love her as she posts a deconstruction of wedding plans via artfully placed yet utterly destroyed wedding items. Hallie wakes up to the reality that her life has been a bit aimless, maybe even selfish. Her constant savior from childhood and best friend, Rafe Fontana serves up a dose of reality and support at the same time. Rafe’s family has worked for the Princes for decades and his life has been a path of leadership, selflessness, and kindness –nicely wrapped up in a hot as heck package. All the while, Rafe kept his love of Hallie a secret with no hope for a happily ever after. Is it time for both of them to turn over a new leaf in life?
While there are some social class undertones with the backdrop of the steadfastness of the Fontana family, this is a rom-com with a ton of humor to be found in the dysfunctional Prince family. Ms. London has beautifully constructed both the Fontana and Prince families with rich, redeemable characters, such that there is much to love and hate at the same time. It’s classic.
This one is a keeper – one that will be read again and again.
I received an ARC of this story. Opinions are my own. I also purchased it!
October 29, 2019
This book had me from page one! Rafe’s reminders to Hallie of what she had done the night before had me laughing so hard there were tears. Hallie Prince broke her engagement when she walked in on her fiancé and her one of her bridesmaids in the middle of things. For Hallie, it was just the icing on the cake after losing her father and finding out the family wasn’t as rich as they thought they were. Unmoored, Hallie realizes it’s past time to figure out what she wants to do with her life. Luckily she has Rafe, her long-time friend, to lean on. Rafe has loved Hallie forever, but as the son of the “help” he knows he has no chance, and has planned his life so he doesn’t have to watch Hallie with anyone else. All Hallie knows is that Rafe has always been there for her, and spending more time with him makes her realize that he could be more than a friend. Hallie doesn’t know where things will end up with Rafe, but one thing is for certain: she needs to figure out her life and who she is.
The Prince family is one of a kind. Full of quirky characters, this is a fun read from beginning to end. Julia London has created characters you become invested in and the situations they find themselves in will keep you turning pages to find out where they will end up next. Hallie is a strong character, but she’s drifted along for most of her life. It was exciting to watch each step as she figured out who she was and where she wanted to be.
This was the second book in the Princes of Texas series, but could easily stand alone (but, if you missed the first, you should really check it out…). I really can’t wait to read the third in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
The Prince family is one of a kind. Full of quirky characters, this is a fun read from beginning to end. Julia London has created characters you become invested in and the situations they find themselves in will keep you turning pages to find out where they will end up next. Hallie is a strong character, but she’s drifted along for most of her life. It was exciting to watch each step as she figured out who she was and where she wanted to be.
This was the second book in the Princes of Texas series, but could easily stand alone (but, if you missed the first, you should really check it out…). I really can’t wait to read the third in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
September 26, 2019
4 stars to this great story!!!
The Devil in the Saddle is the second book in the Princes of Texas series. I truly enjoyed reading about how Hallie Prince found her HEA with Rafe Fontana. Hallie has had the worst recent months. She has lost her father and she caught her fiance cheating on her with one of the bridesmaids.
Hallie feels distraught and out of sorts. It is during this time that she reaches out to Rafe. He has been one of her closest friends since they were young. His family has worked for hers for a long time. I liked how real their friendship was. I can see a true connection between them. Though Rafe was what Hallie needed at the moment to help her in her life, it was so sad to see the hardship Rafe was going through. We learn that Rafe has been in love with her for the longest time, but he always set his feelings aside to be the friend she needed.
I loved Rafe! I loved how he was with her and treated her. He was always there for her. It was painful to see how his feelings towards her had to be pushed back because it was never the right time to confess his feelings.
Although she was unable to accomplish some of her dreams in the end she tried her best to make them a reality. I admired Hallie's tenacity to work out her problems on her own and her way. She took her own time to heal and truly discover what she wanted to do with her life. When she finally realized what made her truly happy, she went out and got it.
I highly recommend this series and I can't wait to read about our grumpy Nick!
Thank you to the author/publisher for sending the ARC for an honest review.
The Devil in the Saddle is the second book in the Princes of Texas series. I truly enjoyed reading about how Hallie Prince found her HEA with Rafe Fontana. Hallie has had the worst recent months. She has lost her father and she caught her fiance cheating on her with one of the bridesmaids.
Hallie feels distraught and out of sorts. It is during this time that she reaches out to Rafe. He has been one of her closest friends since they were young. His family has worked for hers for a long time. I liked how real their friendship was. I can see a true connection between them. Though Rafe was what Hallie needed at the moment to help her in her life, it was so sad to see the hardship Rafe was going through. We learn that Rafe has been in love with her for the longest time, but he always set his feelings aside to be the friend she needed.
I loved Rafe! I loved how he was with her and treated her. He was always there for her. It was painful to see how his feelings towards her had to be pushed back because it was never the right time to confess his feelings.
Although she was unable to accomplish some of her dreams in the end she tried her best to make them a reality. I admired Hallie's tenacity to work out her problems on her own and her way. She took her own time to heal and truly discover what she wanted to do with her life. When she finally realized what made her truly happy, she went out and got it.
I highly recommend this series and I can't wait to read about our grumpy Nick!
Thank you to the author/publisher for sending the ARC for an honest review.
October 30, 2019
Hallie and Rafe’s story is an emotional and moving tale in Devil in the Saddle by Julia London, book two in The Princes of Texas series. After the death of her father, Hallie Prince finds her fiancé cheating with one of her friends. Well, no one cheats on a Prince and gets away with it; Hallie breaks off her engagement and flounders for a bit. She tries getting drunk, becoming a hermit, and an instagram account about deconstructing a wedding before she lets her best friend Rafael, Rafe, Fontana help her find herself. Rafe has loved Hallie since they were kids, but he was always considered the help while Hallie was the beautiful, popular, off-limits daughter of the ranch owner. This ex-Army Ranger is back to help his family but is soon helping Hallie since she needs his support. The problem – after all these years, Hallie is finally noticing the handsome, sexy, and caring Rafe. As feelings arise, lighting the desire between them, Rafe realizes that he wants and deserves Hallie. Now he just has to convince her to give true love another chance, but with him this time.
Ms. London wrote a wonderful, emotional story that is not to be missed. She provided a tale rich with sexual chemistry, amusing banter, and endearing characters giving Hallie and Rafe a chance at love, happiness, and a future neither expected as they both work to overcome the struggles and direction of their lives. I highly recommend Devil in the Saddle to other readers and look forward to reading the next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Ms. London wrote a wonderful, emotional story that is not to be missed. She provided a tale rich with sexual chemistry, amusing banter, and endearing characters giving Hallie and Rafe a chance at love, happiness, and a future neither expected as they both work to overcome the struggles and direction of their lives. I highly recommend Devil in the Saddle to other readers and look forward to reading the next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
September 9, 2019
For over half the book, I really disliked Hallie. She came off as a spoiled, bratty, entitled, pushy and manipulative (no means no goes both ways, ladies) brat. I wanted Rafe to get as far away from her as possible. Thankfully she changed, grew up it seemed.
Now don’t get me wrong, Rafe was no angel. He and Hallie weren’t in a relationship, and despite his ‘undying love’ for her, he is with another woman. I can’t root for an H after that. Perhaps I am naïve, I still believe that if you claim to love someone, you don’t hop into bed with another.
There was mention again about how the family was in such financial peril, yet Hallie, instead of returning clothes and wedding things, she destroys them. That’s not what us normal folks would do if we were strapped for cash.
I have noticed that authors have latched onto a troupe for their characters, something to make them appear like great people, using the ‘they are working with disabled kids’ angle. I was worried that Ms. London was going to overuse it throughout the book, but I was relieved to see that she kept it tasteful and not preachy. I’ve read a few books where it was the center of every other paragraph, which takes it from nice to opportunistic.
One question I have, why ‘Devil in the Saddle’? Rafe is in no way a devil, he’s not even a rude alpha type. Angel in the saddle would have been more descriptively accurate.
The ending was satisfying. And, book three looks good!
Now don’t get me wrong, Rafe was no angel. He and Hallie weren’t in a relationship, and despite his ‘undying love’ for her, he is with another woman. I can’t root for an H after that. Perhaps I am naïve, I still believe that if you claim to love someone, you don’t hop into bed with another.
There was mention again about how the family was in such financial peril, yet Hallie, instead of returning clothes and wedding things, she destroys them. That’s not what us normal folks would do if we were strapped for cash.
I have noticed that authors have latched onto a troupe for their characters, something to make them appear like great people, using the ‘they are working with disabled kids’ angle. I was worried that Ms. London was going to overuse it throughout the book, but I was relieved to see that she kept it tasteful and not preachy. I’ve read a few books where it was the center of every other paragraph, which takes it from nice to opportunistic.
One question I have, why ‘Devil in the Saddle’? Rafe is in no way a devil, he’s not even a rude alpha type. Angel in the saddle would have been more descriptively accurate.
The ending was satisfying. And, book three looks good!
October 29, 2019
Hallie Prince has been the spoiled princess of the Prince famly for her entire life. She is set to marry an up and coming doctor in a big old Texas wedding until she discovers said doctor in a rather compromising position with one of her best girlfriends. End of wedding planning on to wallowing in self pity. Enter Rafe Fontana, Hallie's best friend since forever. Rafe has spent his entire life on the Prince ranch outside of his stint in the Marines. Rafe and Hallie grew up playing together and being friends until Rafe discovered at a tender young age that he was in love with Hallie, a fact he never shared with her because of their differing social status. That didn't stop him from spending as much with the Hallie as he possibly could.
So while Hallie decides what to do with her life post wedding planning she relies on Rafe and his friendship and moral support rather heavily. After awhile, spending so much time together as adults has that sobering effect of bringing out the true feelings of those involved. Hallie finally realizes she's in love with Rafe and then things get really complicated. Both of them have plans for their lives that don't include the other (logistics). When they finally decide to come clean and admit their feelings to each other things begin to fall into place. They manage to overcome many obstacles and we get our happily ever after.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
So while Hallie decides what to do with her life post wedding planning she relies on Rafe and his friendship and moral support rather heavily. After awhile, spending so much time together as adults has that sobering effect of bringing out the true feelings of those involved. Hallie finally realizes she's in love with Rafe and then things get really complicated. Both of them have plans for their lives that don't include the other (logistics). When they finally decide to come clean and admit their feelings to each other things begin to fall into place. They manage to overcome many obstacles and we get our happily ever after.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 28, 2019
This is book 2 in the Princes of Texas series and while you probably could read it as a standalone, I would read book 1 first so you not only understand how this book comes about but the things they speak of that happened in book 1. In this one we get Hallie Prince and Rafael (Rafe) Fontana's story. Rafe and Hallie have been best friends since they were kids. Hallie has called of her wedding and is feeling sorry for herself and the life she is living. Rafe is home to visit his parents while trying to get his own dreams to come to reality. And while home, he spends time with Hallie again and rescues her yet again.
I absolutely loved this one! Hallie is this young woman who is desperately trying to figure out what to do with her life in order to not only be happy but to figure out who she really is. Rafe is this beautiful man who is trying to make his own dreams happen while still keeping his heart intact. I really felt for them both but at the same time wanted to smack them sometimes to get them to wake up and understand that together they are not only perfect but strong and able to make both of their dreams come true! This book has a lot of funny parts but there are also parts that make you want to cry and parts that make you smile knowing that finally love wins! I loved it!! And after that little snippet in the back for the next one? I can't wait for that one!!
I absolutely loved this one! Hallie is this young woman who is desperately trying to figure out what to do with her life in order to not only be happy but to figure out who she really is. Rafe is this beautiful man who is trying to make his own dreams happen while still keeping his heart intact. I really felt for them both but at the same time wanted to smack them sometimes to get them to wake up and understand that together they are not only perfect but strong and able to make both of their dreams come true! This book has a lot of funny parts but there are also parts that make you want to cry and parts that make you smile knowing that finally love wins! I loved it!! And after that little snippet in the back for the next one? I can't wait for that one!!
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