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Shame the Devil
England, 1643. The Civil War has created a great divide between those who support King Charles and those who would rather see his head on the block. Young Scot Colin Blackburne finds himself caught in the middle when he witnesses Parliamentarians murder his mother because of his father’s allegiance to the king. As further punishment, the family is sent to Yorkshire as indentured servants.
Mistreated by his master and tormented by a Parliamentarian soldier, Colin vows to take up arms for the king and seek vengeance against the men who killed his mother. The only bright spot in his life is his unexpected, and forbidden, friendship with his master’s daughter, Emma Hardcastle.
With her father constantly away on campaign and her mother plagued by madness, Emma is drawn to Colin and his brother, Roddy. She introduces them to her troubled neighbor Alston Egerton, who has a clandestine relationship with Stephen Kitts, the soldier out for Colin’s blood.
As they all become entangled in a twisted web of love, jealousy, desire, and betrayal, the war rages on around them. Resentful at being forced into servitude and forbidden from being with the woman he loves, Colin puts his plan for vengeance into motion, though it will have disastrous consequences for all of them.
Secrets are revealed and relationships are torn apart. With the country teetering on the brink of ruin, Emma fights to survive, Alston is forced to confront his demons, and Colin must decide whether his burning desire to fight for justice is worth sacrificing a future with the woman he loves.
Mistreated by his master and tormented by a Parliamentarian soldier, Colin vows to take up arms for the king and seek vengeance against the men who killed his mother. The only bright spot in his life is his unexpected, and forbidden, friendship with his master’s daughter, Emma Hardcastle.
With her father constantly away on campaign and her mother plagued by madness, Emma is drawn to Colin and his brother, Roddy. She introduces them to her troubled neighbor Alston Egerton, who has a clandestine relationship with Stephen Kitts, the soldier out for Colin’s blood.
As they all become entangled in a twisted web of love, jealousy, desire, and betrayal, the war rages on around them. Resentful at being forced into servitude and forbidden from being with the woman he loves, Colin puts his plan for vengeance into motion, though it will have disastrous consequences for all of them.
Secrets are revealed and relationships are torn apart. With the country teetering on the brink of ruin, Emma fights to survive, Alston is forced to confront his demons, and Colin must decide whether his burning desire to fight for justice is worth sacrificing a future with the woman he loves.
415 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 25, 2020
28 people are currently reading
467 people want to read
About the author
Donna Scott
3 books55 followersDonna Scott is an award-winning author of 17th and 18th century historical fiction. Before embarking on a writing career, she spent her time in the world of academia. She earned her BA in English from the University of Miami and her MS and EdD (ABD) from Florida International University. She has two sons and lives in sunny South Florida with her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
September 14, 2020
You know when you finish a book so amazing that you cannot find the adequate words to express just how much you loved it?! Yep, that's what happened to me with Shame the Devil by Donna Scott! I mean, it just took my expectations and absolutely exceeded them. I know Shame the Devil will be in the top 5, if not the Top 3, books I read this year, and one of THE best historical fiction novels I have read to date.
The action kicks off right away when English soldiers rush upon Colin's family home, kill his mother, and take him, his brother, and his father off to England to serve as stablehands at an English manor called Appleton Hall. It's a time of civil unrest in the country - one side is for King Charles I and the other is against. Colin's father fought to keep the King on the throne and is being punished for it.
Emma Hardcastle is the Viscount's daughter at Appleton Hall. Unlike her cold, calculating father and unstable mother, Emma is sweet and charming and smart. Colin and his family are scheduled to serve at Appleton Hall for seven years and during that time, Colin and Emma become close friends and eventually fall in love. But his heart has also been set on leaving England and fighting against the men that killed his mother.
In addition to Emma and Colin's storyline, I was also entranced by Alston and Stephen Kitts' story, as well as Roddy's. I sure hope to see Roddy in the next book :)
Donna is currently working on the sequel and despite all attempts she is staying mum on what we can expect. She's such a tease :) All I know is that it's going to be brilliant and I absolutely am counting down the days until it's released!
Shame the Devil is exceptional reading! It brings all the feelings and will have you entralled throughout! I seriously inhaled the last 80% in one sitting and growled at anyone that dare interrupt me :)
If I could give it a million stars I would! Kudos to Donna Scott - I am now your official fan-girl!
The action kicks off right away when English soldiers rush upon Colin's family home, kill his mother, and take him, his brother, and his father off to England to serve as stablehands at an English manor called Appleton Hall. It's a time of civil unrest in the country - one side is for King Charles I and the other is against. Colin's father fought to keep the King on the throne and is being punished for it.
Emma Hardcastle is the Viscount's daughter at Appleton Hall. Unlike her cold, calculating father and unstable mother, Emma is sweet and charming and smart. Colin and his family are scheduled to serve at Appleton Hall for seven years and during that time, Colin and Emma become close friends and eventually fall in love. But his heart has also been set on leaving England and fighting against the men that killed his mother.
In addition to Emma and Colin's storyline, I was also entranced by Alston and Stephen Kitts' story, as well as Roddy's. I sure hope to see Roddy in the next book :)
Donna is currently working on the sequel and despite all attempts she is staying mum on what we can expect. She's such a tease :) All I know is that it's going to be brilliant and I absolutely am counting down the days until it's released!
Shame the Devil is exceptional reading! It brings all the feelings and will have you entralled throughout! I seriously inhaled the last 80% in one sitting and growled at anyone that dare interrupt me :)
If I could give it a million stars I would! Kudos to Donna Scott - I am now your official fan-girl!
July 21, 2020
I don’t typically read historic fiction. I’m more of a biography girl, but I thought I’d give it a go with this book. I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised. I guess it wasn’t what I was expecting because pretty early on, the book took a turn (without giving too much away) in a direction that you don’t normally see in historicals. Two characters get involved in a relationship that, if you’re on the prude side, can be a little shocking, but it was so well done that it made it difficult to put the book down. I also liked the fact that it took place during a time I don’t know much about, and that was refreshing. It seems like every book out today is based on WW2. All I can say is I would definitely recommend this book!
April 11, 2022
I absolutely loved this! I can’t wait to read this author’s other books.
May 6, 2020
Beautifully written. The story is engaging and the characters come alive. Perfect escape into another moment in time. I am looking forward to reading the next novel by Donna Scott.
September 24, 2020
Thank you HFVBT and the author for a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Shame The Devil
By: Donna Scott
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆
~Tell the truth, and shame the devil.~
In Donna Scott's Shame The Devil, we step back to 1643 and the English Civil War. Are you for or against King Charles?
Unfortunately, for Colin Blackburne, his father supported supported the king. Now, Colin's mother has been murdered, and he, along with his father and brother, are taken to Yorkshire to serve as indentured servants. Colin is badly treated by the man who has power over him. But, this man's daughter, Emma, and Colin fall in love.
Colin now has love, and he seeks justice for his mother. There are others after him, too. And, there are other forbidden relationships in the shadows. It gets complicated with secrets, lies, betrayals and revenge. This story is much more about the situation between Colin, Emma and several other characters than it is about battle. I'm glad because I dislike reading battle scenes. The pace is nice and even. I was not prepared for some of the twists that the story threw at me. There are a couple of aspects that I rarely see in historical fiction, making the story all the more authentic and interesting.
The characters will attach to your mind, and you will have to know what happens to them. This is why the book is hard to put down for a minute. You'll see what I mean. This book is historical fiction in a kind of different, but good, way. Colin, Emma and the others have truths to follow, and they do just that. To whatever end. You must read Shame The Devil because it's fantastic!
Shame The Devil
By: Donna Scott
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆
~Tell the truth, and shame the devil.~
In Donna Scott's Shame The Devil, we step back to 1643 and the English Civil War. Are you for or against King Charles?
Unfortunately, for Colin Blackburne, his father supported supported the king. Now, Colin's mother has been murdered, and he, along with his father and brother, are taken to Yorkshire to serve as indentured servants. Colin is badly treated by the man who has power over him. But, this man's daughter, Emma, and Colin fall in love.
Colin now has love, and he seeks justice for his mother. There are others after him, too. And, there are other forbidden relationships in the shadows. It gets complicated with secrets, lies, betrayals and revenge. This story is much more about the situation between Colin, Emma and several other characters than it is about battle. I'm glad because I dislike reading battle scenes. The pace is nice and even. I was not prepared for some of the twists that the story threw at me. There are a couple of aspects that I rarely see in historical fiction, making the story all the more authentic and interesting.
The characters will attach to your mind, and you will have to know what happens to them. This is why the book is hard to put down for a minute. You'll see what I mean. This book is historical fiction in a kind of different, but good, way. Colin, Emma and the others have truths to follow, and they do just that. To whatever end. You must read Shame The Devil because it's fantastic!
May 23, 2020
My guilty pleasure is a good historical fiction. This book was for me a weekend escape I couldn’t put down. The author clearly did her research on England in the 1600’s. You are transported into a different time and place with well developed characters. You could really empathize with them while they navigate life in a time when society and social norms often controlled ones destiny. There are various relationships crossing paths and twists along the way which make this a hard book to put down.
May 24, 2020
What I enjoyed the most about this book was the lesson in history. It is set in 1600’s England. I liked the time period because I knew very little about English history and the Civil War. The author does a good job at explaining with detail everything from the clothing people wore at the time, to architecture and political issues. There is of course several love stories, which makes it even more interesting to read. I got lost in the pages of this book and recommend it if you want a different historical novel to read.
May 4, 2020
From the first time I picked up this book I was enthralled by the story. I enjoyed every bit of the historical details. I found the author’s writing descriptive, lively and vivid. As I read this story, I felt I was not just looking at these characters lives and the era they lived in, but I was able to share in the sights, sounds, and their love and pain. I had a hard time putting it down. I HIGHLY recommend to lovers of Historical Fiction.
May 15, 2020
Enjoyed this book set in 1600’s England. This book was a love story of forbidden love. Colin, a Scottish indentured servant, and Emma, the English viscount’s daughter form a relationship that starts as a friendship and ends up as so much more. Without too many spoilers, their love is tested in many ways over the years. There are also other relationships in this book that are forbidden and unlikely, but I wouldn’t say the love was reciprocal. I liked both sets of relationships for different reasons. I also liked the time period because I knew very little about the English Civil War before reading this book. I’ve read a lot of Tudor England books in the past and this was refreshingly different. If you want to get lost in the pages of a book, then I highly recommend this one. It was a page turner!
May 10, 2020
Perfect for Droughtlander!
While this book is NOT about a time traveling nurse, I can’t help but compare it to Outlander. It is similar in that it is an epic adventure and the author, much like Diana Gabaldon, has created characters that you care for, that you root for, and stay with you long after the pages have finished. She has similarly penned historical events and places and breathed life into them. I feel like I’ve been there and feel like I know these people and experienced their hardships, their failures, but most of all their love and ultimate successes with them. Read it. I highly recommend for those suffering from Droughtlander or just love a great story.
While this book is NOT about a time traveling nurse, I can’t help but compare it to Outlander. It is similar in that it is an epic adventure and the author, much like Diana Gabaldon, has created characters that you care for, that you root for, and stay with you long after the pages have finished. She has similarly penned historical events and places and breathed life into them. I feel like I’ve been there and feel like I know these people and experienced their hardships, their failures, but most of all their love and ultimate successes with them. Read it. I highly recommend for those suffering from Droughtlander or just love a great story.
May 28, 2020
I love a good revenge story! And in historical fiction? Yes, please! This is one of those rare historical novels that tells both an epic romance and a good old-fashioned tale of vengeance. Stephen Kitts is one of the nastiest villains I’ve read in a long time. While some of the sexual content is disturbing, it’s not graphic. I thought the author did a great job with that. Overall, would highly recommend to historical fiction enthusiasts who love a sassy, spirited read!
May 22, 2020
I am not a big reader, but when I find something I begin to read and love, I treasure and gobble it up. It is the only thing I can think about and can't wait to get back to and then disappointed when it ends.
Shame the Devil has been one of those books for me.
My guilty pleasure. One that when you can't sleep in the middle of the night you sneak a chapter in.
I have bought several copies and sent to friends and family. In today's world, I find I keep getting caught up with current events, but what much needed great escape Shame the Devil has been for me.
Fantastic!
Shame the Devil has been one of those books for me.
My guilty pleasure. One that when you can't sleep in the middle of the night you sneak a chapter in.
I have bought several copies and sent to friends and family. In today's world, I find I keep getting caught up with current events, but what much needed great escape Shame the Devil has been for me.
Fantastic!
May 13, 2020
Once you start this book, you will not be able to put it down. Chapter Four will have you hooked for sure, but it’s not for the prude. The relationship between Alston and Captain Kitts takes this book on a path you don’t see coming. This book is like riding a roller coaster, every turn and twist you get more drawn to the characters and what they are going through.
May 23, 2020
While I really enjoy historical fiction, this one was more engaging than any in recent memory. The twist and turns of the plot, the characters brought to life so true and interesting, the historical events woven in, were all so real I felt like I was living it myself. Everything rang true, from her wonderful descriptions of the setting, to the language of the day written in here and there, I felt like I was transported to another time.
Bravo! I'll be on the lookout for her next book.
Bravo! I'll be on the lookout for her next book.
May 24, 2020
This book is a must-read for your next book club. It is a historical fiction novel that identifies the desperate need for love. Each character searches for that connection that is wired in each of us. The tangled weave and dance that we do to find that love is what makes this a page-turner. The love of family, power and money, a ruler, and the love of your soulmate is creatively designed into a beautiful story during the mid-1600s. The characters were so well depicted- we spent the night digesting each one. So be taken back in time and feel the life of the noble and common come together in a search of love.
May 24, 2020
I confess that although I am a lover of historical fiction, I was not sure I would like this book since it was based on a period I knew nothing about.- The English Civil War. But, despite my concerns , it had me hooked from the start. The countryside settings and descriptions of life in the 1640s created a beautiful backdrop for the forbidden love story between Colin and Emma. I must say that there is a magical coming of age love scene that was so artfully written and moving which I thought was a highlight of the book. There are true villains and heroes in this saga , and it had me rooting for the good guys until the end . A terrific escape !
May 28, 2020
I typically do not choose historical fiction but I was pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed this book. It kept me engaged and wanting to read more from the very beginning. The characters come alive and the unexpected relationships make this book hard to put down. I thoroughly enjoyed it!!
May 30, 2020
Amazing! Read it cover to cover in 3 days. This is a book that I feel even people who may not love historical fiction will truly enjoy. Some historical fiction authors tend to write too much detail that slows down the story which may turn people away from the genre. However, this book has just the right balance of detail and plot. But it also has characters that I felt so connected to from the very beginning. So much so that I couldn’t stop thinking about them long after the book was finished. I also learned a lot about that period in history without even realizing it because I was completely engrossed in the story. The book is written so beautifully and brilliantly and I could literally not put it down. A little warning though...it’s not for the prude ;). It’s been a long time since I’ve felt this way about a book.
May 21, 2020
Warning: You won’t be able to put this book down!!
Very well written. My first historical fiction and I was hooked two pages in. The twists, turns, and jaw droppers kept me clinging to this read all the way to the very last page. Highly recommend this book.
Very well written. My first historical fiction and I was hooked two pages in. The twists, turns, and jaw droppers kept me clinging to this read all the way to the very last page. Highly recommend this book.
May 23, 2020
If you like Historical Fiction you will surely enjoy Shame the Devil by Donna Scott. As you read this book you feel as if you are in this era and can picture these characters as if you know them. It is a page turner. I didn’t want to put it down because it held my interest in every chapter.
July 24, 2020
Although I don't normally write reviews, Shame The Devil is such a fun, fast paced, enjoyable read, I want to encourage other readers to dive in. Ms Scott takes time to develop her characters, employ engaging references and language, and keep the story moving. At it's heart, this is a love story set in 17th century England- I should say a tale of forbidden love- with the class/caste system of the period playing a central role. The violence, romance and changing fates of characters drive the story line, while the setting, period and language reliably play supporting roles.
Thank you Ms Scott. Your love of the subject comes through and helps the reader both cringe and smile as we travel from the English country side, to Stuart London, and finally across the Atlantic to the newly formed Colonies. I'm now a fan and would happily join your next journey.
Thank you Ms Scott. Your love of the subject comes through and helps the reader both cringe and smile as we travel from the English country side, to Stuart London, and finally across the Atlantic to the newly formed Colonies. I'm now a fan and would happily join your next journey.
June 16, 2020
Outlander fans will love this historically accurate period piece. I am not a big reader of historical fiction, but couldn't put this down.Showtime and HBO should adapt this one!
June 28, 2020
Incredible! I love a good historical fiction novel and this one did not disappoint! From the first chapter I was hooked and wasn’t able to put the book down! This book has the perfect blend of history, romance and mystery! Would absolutely recommend!
June 7, 2020
This was a great book! It is a well written page turner that I could not put down. I highly recommend this book not only to historical fiction lovers, but to anyone who enjoys a good love story with engaging well thought out characters.
June 23, 2020
Wonderfully written. The storyline was created so well & each character held my interest where I couldn’t put the book down. I hope that there will be more books written by Donna Scott.
June 15, 2020
I thought the first 4 chapters were very slow, and then after that I couldn't put the book down. The character development was amazing. I felt like I was part of each of their lives. I have a whole new perspective on reading historical fiction books ( which I never chose before ) . I can say that Shame the Devil is a must read. I truly hope that Donna Scott is writing a sequel so that we can continue to follow Colin, Emma, and Tristan.
Reviewed by Elyse Gordon
Reviewed by Elyse Gordon
June 16, 2020
I love historical fiction so when I started this book I was a little skeptical, but after a few chapters I couldn't put this book down. The writing was so descriptive that I felt I was right there with Colin. I felt the hearbreak of Emma and suffered with Alston his demons. It was a great read!
June 12, 2020
A friend of mine recommended this book to me because she had read the entire book in two days. I wanted a juicy book to get my mind off of the quarantine. I typically read women’s fiction and thought this may be a long shot, however, it was NOT! I loved this story. Although it took me maybe 5 days to read it, I thoroughly enjoyed the romance between Colin and Emma and all the evil that transpired between Stephen and Alston. (Felt so sorry for Alston). I would highly recommend this book to anyone that wants an escape.
June 11, 2020
An entertaining and educational read with real emotional depth. Donna Scott weaves a can't-put-it-down story into a fascinating historical construct. I love reading a book with characters whose lives speak across the centuries, and make me want to both learn about the past and be thankful for the time I am born into. This was one of those books.
June 17, 2024
This was another of my bedtime reads, and it's easy to say I didn't get much sleep that week as I was fully engaged and gripped by every page!
I have loved each book of Donna Scott's I've read and this was no different, it's a real doozy! Though, saying that now I have read all three of her books, I do lean more towards The London Monster (which is a sensation!!) if you get the chance to read it please do it's fabulous!
Set during the English Civil War, Shame the Devil tells the forbidden love story between Colin and Emma. After witnessing the brutal murder of his mother by parliamentarian soldiers young Colin is uprooted from his native Scotland and sent to be a stablehand at Appleton Hall in Yorkshire where he meets his master's daughter; Emma. Colin is determined to seek his vengeance on those who have wronged him, and his family and murdered his mother in the only way he can, by taking up arms for the King.
The only problem with that, is his complex feelings for Emma, here she is the woman he has fallen in love with and yet it's her father who is his cruel, tormenting master, Colin wants revenge, he wants retribution and justice for his mother but at what cost?
Emma and Colin are a very likeable couple, their relationship evolves and grows naturally it's tender and a little saucy, I also liked the friendship between Colin's brother Roddy, Emma and their neighbour Alston who has a deadly secret of his own, the multiple branches of the relationships between the characters keeps the plot fresh and intriguing.
It's been way too long since I read a book set during the English Civil War, I'd forgotten just how great and darkly riveting these stories are. I do think Shame the Devil leans more towards the romance between Emma and Colin than focusing too heavily on the politics of the time, something which I prefer as much as I enjoy the historical facts and figures I have now come to the stage in my reading when I don't want to be pinned down with the complex backstabbing political endeavours of it's more colourful characters (I think it's easy to say we all have enough of that in real life) and this is where Donna Scott comes into her own. I have always liked Donna Scott's ability to toe the line between heavy and entertaining historical fiction and this time with a bit of added spice.
Shame the Devil has a large cast of characters which some readers may not like that aspect, I do as long as the main plot isn't bogged down by too many personalities chattering at once, this is the perfect balance of intriguing and fascinating secondary and leading characters.
Donna Scott is a master narrator, her clever way with words instantly draws you in and transports you to another era, it's like magic how easily you fall under the spell of her eloquent writing (it's easy to say I'm a fan!) Shame the Devil is gritty and saucy, full of passion, drama historical intrigue and atmosphere it's a full-on romp in the 17th century which will leave you gasping and wanting more.
This is such a great book, it has a bit of everything from love and revenge to betrayal and secrets, the constant undercurrent of war and never knowing who is friend or foe. I can't recommend Shame the Devil enough and urge all those who love their historical fiction to add this one to their bookshelves!
I have loved each book of Donna Scott's I've read and this was no different, it's a real doozy! Though, saying that now I have read all three of her books, I do lean more towards The London Monster (which is a sensation!!) if you get the chance to read it please do it's fabulous!
Set during the English Civil War, Shame the Devil tells the forbidden love story between Colin and Emma. After witnessing the brutal murder of his mother by parliamentarian soldiers young Colin is uprooted from his native Scotland and sent to be a stablehand at Appleton Hall in Yorkshire where he meets his master's daughter; Emma. Colin is determined to seek his vengeance on those who have wronged him, and his family and murdered his mother in the only way he can, by taking up arms for the King.
The only problem with that, is his complex feelings for Emma, here she is the woman he has fallen in love with and yet it's her father who is his cruel, tormenting master, Colin wants revenge, he wants retribution and justice for his mother but at what cost?
Emma and Colin are a very likeable couple, their relationship evolves and grows naturally it's tender and a little saucy, I also liked the friendship between Colin's brother Roddy, Emma and their neighbour Alston who has a deadly secret of his own, the multiple branches of the relationships between the characters keeps the plot fresh and intriguing.
It's been way too long since I read a book set during the English Civil War, I'd forgotten just how great and darkly riveting these stories are. I do think Shame the Devil leans more towards the romance between Emma and Colin than focusing too heavily on the politics of the time, something which I prefer as much as I enjoy the historical facts and figures I have now come to the stage in my reading when I don't want to be pinned down with the complex backstabbing political endeavours of it's more colourful characters (I think it's easy to say we all have enough of that in real life) and this is where Donna Scott comes into her own. I have always liked Donna Scott's ability to toe the line between heavy and entertaining historical fiction and this time with a bit of added spice.
Shame the Devil has a large cast of characters which some readers may not like that aspect, I do as long as the main plot isn't bogged down by too many personalities chattering at once, this is the perfect balance of intriguing and fascinating secondary and leading characters.
Donna Scott is a master narrator, her clever way with words instantly draws you in and transports you to another era, it's like magic how easily you fall under the spell of her eloquent writing (it's easy to say I'm a fan!) Shame the Devil is gritty and saucy, full of passion, drama historical intrigue and atmosphere it's a full-on romp in the 17th century which will leave you gasping and wanting more.
This is such a great book, it has a bit of everything from love and revenge to betrayal and secrets, the constant undercurrent of war and never knowing who is friend or foe. I can't recommend Shame the Devil enough and urge all those who love their historical fiction to add this one to their bookshelves!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews