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The Deville Brothers #3
Protected By A Devil
From USA Today bestselling author Wendy Vella comes a sizzling new series full of passion, scandals, and intrigue. Tasked with protecting the King, the Deville brothers are part of a secret alliance forged centuries ago, but when it comes to affairs of the heart, they are yet to be tamed.
He was a man who liked order and control. No Highland Hoyden was wrestling that from him!
Michael Deville prides himself on being ordered, controlled and the voice of reason amongst his fiery Deville brothers. Which is all true, until Freya MacDougall storms into his life and completely shakes his composure.
Beautiful, infuriating, and reckless, Freya evokes emotions he’s never let himself feel before. She knows nothing of society or the correct way a lady should behave. In fact, she’s the exact opposite of everything he believed he wanted in a wife.
His protective instincts toward her demand he seeks out her secrets. She’s up to something, and Michael is determined to find out what. But protecting her from the enemy lurking in the shadows may be harder on his heart than he ever anticipated.
She will yield to no man, especially not one of society’s most eligible bachelors.
Freya has no wish to come to horrid London for the season and have her great aunt, the Duchess of Yardly, turn her into a lady. It is a hopeless proposition, she knows, but she acquiesces to her parents’ demands. Unbeknownst to them, her ulterior motive is to find her missing uncle Dougal, not secure a pale, boring Englishman as a husband.
She submits and allows the endless fittings and tutors, and tries to hide the longing for the green fields of her homeland. Remarkably, she finds solace in her nightly sparring with the darkly handsome Michael Deville. He’s wicked, insolent, and intriguing. He also, annoyingly, keeps turning up where he is not wanted!
The man is ruthless at being her protector, for some unknown reason. But Freya will not be thwarted, not when her uncle’s life is in peril.
She cares nothing for decorum, the ton’s whispers, nor the desire that flares between her and Michael. She’s not marriage material. Surely he knows that.
The greatest risk Freya and Michael face may not be from society, or the danger that lurks in the shadows, but from the love they battle to deny.
<
He was a man who liked order and control. No Highland Hoyden was wrestling that from him!
Michael Deville prides himself on being ordered, controlled and the voice of reason amongst his fiery Deville brothers. Which is all true, until Freya MacDougall storms into his life and completely shakes his composure.
Beautiful, infuriating, and reckless, Freya evokes emotions he’s never let himself feel before. She knows nothing of society or the correct way a lady should behave. In fact, she’s the exact opposite of everything he believed he wanted in a wife.
His protective instincts toward her demand he seeks out her secrets. She’s up to something, and Michael is determined to find out what. But protecting her from the enemy lurking in the shadows may be harder on his heart than he ever anticipated.
She will yield to no man, especially not one of society’s most eligible bachelors.
Freya has no wish to come to horrid London for the season and have her great aunt, the Duchess of Yardly, turn her into a lady. It is a hopeless proposition, she knows, but she acquiesces to her parents’ demands. Unbeknownst to them, her ulterior motive is to find her missing uncle Dougal, not secure a pale, boring Englishman as a husband.
She submits and allows the endless fittings and tutors, and tries to hide the longing for the green fields of her homeland. Remarkably, she finds solace in her nightly sparring with the darkly handsome Michael Deville. He’s wicked, insolent, and intriguing. He also, annoyingly, keeps turning up where he is not wanted!
The man is ruthless at being her protector, for some unknown reason. But Freya will not be thwarted, not when her uncle’s life is in peril.
She cares nothing for decorum, the ton’s whispers, nor the desire that flares between her and Michael. She’s not marriage material. Surely he knows that.
The greatest risk Freya and Michael face may not be from society, or the danger that lurks in the shadows, but from the love they battle to deny.
<
294 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 31, 2022
503 people are currently reading
1400 people want to read
About the author
Wendy Vella
96 books830 followersWendy Vella is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author of historical romances filled with mystery, intrigue, unconventional heroines, and dashing heroes.
Connect with Wendy in her Facebook reader group facebook.com/groups/wendyvellareaders or sign up for her reader newsletter at WendyVella.com to get goodies, exclusive excerpts and behind-the-scenes peeks.
Wendy also writes small town contemporary romances under the name Lani Blake.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
March 27, 2024
⭐⭐
2 stars.
➕ What I liked :
The pets.
Somewhat interesting hero.
Interesting side characters.
➖ What I disliked:
Annoying/unlikable heroine.
Repetitive.
Cringey.
Too much tell and too little show.
Stilted.
Abrupt ending.
The romantic build up/romance was unconvincing/lacking.
No chemistry.
Dull main character.
(The heroine)
The plot lacked some depth, it needed more suspense/mystery and romance.
Formulaic in the character description/visual appearance/character choice.
2 stars.
➕ What I liked :
The pets.
Somewhat interesting hero.
Interesting side characters.
➖ What I disliked:
Annoying/unlikable heroine.
Repetitive.
Cringey.
Too much tell and too little show.
Stilted.
Abrupt ending.
The romantic build up/romance was unconvincing/lacking.
No chemistry.
Dull main character.
(The heroine)
The plot lacked some depth, it needed more suspense/mystery and romance.
Formulaic in the character description/visual appearance/character choice.
July 5, 2023
Michael is the quiet brother, he comes across Freya in the rain at the cake stall . They start to talk, and feel at ease with each other, knowing they probably won’t meet again. Till the day they meet once again.
March 27, 2022
He was a man who liked order and control. No Highland Hoyden was wrestling that from him!
Michael Deville prides himself on being ordered, controlled and the voice of reason amongst his fiery Deville brothers. Which is all true, until Freya MacDougall storms into his life and completely shakes his composure.
Beautiful, infuriating, and reckless, Freya evokes emotions he’s never let himself feel before. She knows nothing of society or the correct way a lady should behave. In fact, she’s the exact opposite of everything he believed he wanted in a wife.
His protective instincts toward her demand he seeks out her secrets. She’s up to something, and Michael is determined to find out what. But protecting her from the enemy lurking in the shadows may be harder on his heart than he ever anticipated.
She will yield to no man, especially not one of society’s most eligible bachelors.
Freya has no wish to come to horrid London for the season and have her great aunt, the Duchess of Yardly, turn her into a lady. It is a hopeless proposition, she knows, but she acquiesces to her parents’ demands. Unbeknownst to them, her ulterior motive is to find her missing uncle Dougal, not secure a pale, boring Englishman as a husband.
She submits and allows the endless fittings and tutors, and tries to hide the longing for the green fields of her homeland. Remarkably, she finds solace in her nightly sparring with the darkly handsome Michael Deville. He’s wicked, insolent, and intriguing. He also, annoyingly, keeps turning up where he is not wanted!
The man is ruthless at being her protector, for some unknown reason. But Freya will not be thwarted, not when her uncle’s life is in peril.
Freya and Michael are meant to be. With her uncles life in danger this is an amazing book.
She cares nothing for decorum, the ton’s whispers, nor the desire that flares between her and Michael. She’s not marriage material. Surely he knows that.
The greatest risk Freya and Michael face may not be from society, or the danger that lurks in the shadows, but from the love they battle to deny.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Michael Deville prides himself on being ordered, controlled and the voice of reason amongst his fiery Deville brothers. Which is all true, until Freya MacDougall storms into his life and completely shakes his composure.
Beautiful, infuriating, and reckless, Freya evokes emotions he’s never let himself feel before. She knows nothing of society or the correct way a lady should behave. In fact, she’s the exact opposite of everything he believed he wanted in a wife.
His protective instincts toward her demand he seeks out her secrets. She’s up to something, and Michael is determined to find out what. But protecting her from the enemy lurking in the shadows may be harder on his heart than he ever anticipated.
She will yield to no man, especially not one of society’s most eligible bachelors.
Freya has no wish to come to horrid London for the season and have her great aunt, the Duchess of Yardly, turn her into a lady. It is a hopeless proposition, she knows, but she acquiesces to her parents’ demands. Unbeknownst to them, her ulterior motive is to find her missing uncle Dougal, not secure a pale, boring Englishman as a husband.
She submits and allows the endless fittings and tutors, and tries to hide the longing for the green fields of her homeland. Remarkably, she finds solace in her nightly sparring with the darkly handsome Michael Deville. He’s wicked, insolent, and intriguing. He also, annoyingly, keeps turning up where he is not wanted!
The man is ruthless at being her protector, for some unknown reason. But Freya will not be thwarted, not when her uncle’s life is in peril.
Freya and Michael are meant to be. With her uncles life in danger this is an amazing book.
She cares nothing for decorum, the ton’s whispers, nor the desire that flares between her and Michael. She’s not marriage material. Surely he knows that.
The greatest risk Freya and Michael face may not be from society, or the danger that lurks in the shadows, but from the love they battle to deny.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
March 19, 2022
I absolutely loved Michael and Freya's story, it was full of ups, downs and secrets. Freya has been hurt and used before by Egan the Awful and doesn't believe that marriage, family and children of her own are in her future. She believes that she is destined for spinsterhood and the role of doting sister to her three younger brothers.
Michael's life is full of mystery, danger and the usual round of parties, balls etc. His work to protect the King as a member of Alexius is all consuming.
Freya is in London staying with her aunt Duchess of Yardley rather unwillingly and will do all she can to thwart her family’s plans.
A chance meeting in the rain at a renowned spiced cake stall changes everything, soon they are meeting more and their simmering attraction grows. However Michael's mission for Alexius stands in their way as secrets unfold as unbeknownst to Freya her missing uncle Callum is part of his task. Michael, his brothers and the members of Alexius must find the missing peers, subvert the Harkners plot and somehow stop Freya from discovering the truth that Michael has known all along that her uncle had been kidnapped and was not visiting his estates or detained by another peer.
Who are the Harkners? Where is her uncle and can their love survive the revelations to come.
I loved catching up with all the Devilles, Ravens, Sinclairs and Ryders and their spouses.
Michael's life is full of mystery, danger and the usual round of parties, balls etc. His work to protect the King as a member of Alexius is all consuming.
Freya is in London staying with her aunt Duchess of Yardley rather unwillingly and will do all she can to thwart her family’s plans.
A chance meeting in the rain at a renowned spiced cake stall changes everything, soon they are meeting more and their simmering attraction grows. However Michael's mission for Alexius stands in their way as secrets unfold as unbeknownst to Freya her missing uncle Callum is part of his task. Michael, his brothers and the members of Alexius must find the missing peers, subvert the Harkners plot and somehow stop Freya from discovering the truth that Michael has known all along that her uncle had been kidnapped and was not visiting his estates or detained by another peer.
Who are the Harkners? Where is her uncle and can their love survive the revelations to come.
I loved catching up with all the Devilles, Ravens, Sinclairs and Ryders and their spouses.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2022
Protected by a Devil is the third in Wendy Vella’s Deville Brother’s series. The Deville brothers are part of an ancient order called Alexius created to centuries ago to protect King and country. Michael Deville is the calm and controlled brother and the voice of reason. He meets his match in the spirited Freya MacDougall. Brought down from Scotland to live with her great aunt for the Season, Freya is the complete opposite of what Michael imagined his wife would be. But Freya is keeping secrets and is up to something. When Michael finds out what Freya is searching for, his duty to the King is in conflict with the dictates of his heart. He must lie to Freya to keep her safe. Will she forgive his deception when she finds out?
Freya MacDougall wants nothing to do with finding a husband. Having been disappointed in love before, she only agreed to come because her beloved Uncle would be there. She plans to visit, endure the Season and go home. When she arrives her uncle is missing and no-one seems to know what has happened to him. Outwardly submitting to the endless fittings and society evenings, Freya decides to conduct her own investigations. The only solace she has is in her meetings with the handsome Michael Deville. Her heart slowly thaws and Freya finds herself in love. But when she finds out that Michael had information about her uncle and deceived her, can she ever forgive him?
Michael and Freya are a lovely couple. Their natures complement each other and the development of their relationship comes naturally. Freya is understandably wary of relationships because of her first disappointment but Michael’s charm, honour and strength win her over.
This is an enjoyable instalment in Wendy Vella’s Regency world. As ever, there is close involvement with previous characters from her stories and it is a pleasure to delve back in their world full of warmth, banter, humour and strong sense of family. You can read this book as a stand alone but I would definitely recommend that you go back and read the previous books. I look forward to the next instalment. I received an ARC of this story in return for my honest opinion.
Freya MacDougall wants nothing to do with finding a husband. Having been disappointed in love before, she only agreed to come because her beloved Uncle would be there. She plans to visit, endure the Season and go home. When she arrives her uncle is missing and no-one seems to know what has happened to him. Outwardly submitting to the endless fittings and society evenings, Freya decides to conduct her own investigations. The only solace she has is in her meetings with the handsome Michael Deville. Her heart slowly thaws and Freya finds herself in love. But when she finds out that Michael had information about her uncle and deceived her, can she ever forgive him?
Michael and Freya are a lovely couple. Their natures complement each other and the development of their relationship comes naturally. Freya is understandably wary of relationships because of her first disappointment but Michael’s charm, honour and strength win her over.
This is an enjoyable instalment in Wendy Vella’s Regency world. As ever, there is close involvement with previous characters from her stories and it is a pleasure to delve back in their world full of warmth, banter, humour and strong sense of family. You can read this book as a stand alone but I would definitely recommend that you go back and read the previous books. I look forward to the next instalment. I received an ARC of this story in return for my honest opinion.
March 26, 2022
This is the third book of The Deville Brothers and let me tell you it was an amazing treat!
This is Micheal Devilles journey to love, he meets Freya MacDougall his destiny at Mr. Silac’s vendor cart waiting for his favourite spiced cake. Their first meeting and how Micheal was intrigued by her was my favourite part.
Freya is oblivious to him standing in the rain imearsed in her thoughts until Micheal’s hat drips all over her jolting her to her senses and to him. The attraction was almost instantanous unbeknowst to both of them. Their paths cross again at a London society event and from then on a web of mystery drags them ever closer to her finding her uncle and to each other.
Wendy Vella has done a fantastic job at weaving mystery, intrigue and a plot that has the reader turning the pages in anticipation of the climatic end. The characters have a strong connection and attraction to each other, and lastly we see some favourite Raven /Sinclair characters. I strongly recommend all of Wendy Vellas books you will not be disapointed.
i received an ARC for my honest opinion, all opionions are my own and freely given.
This is Micheal Devilles journey to love, he meets Freya MacDougall his destiny at Mr. Silac’s vendor cart waiting for his favourite spiced cake. Their first meeting and how Micheal was intrigued by her was my favourite part.
Freya is oblivious to him standing in the rain imearsed in her thoughts until Micheal’s hat drips all over her jolting her to her senses and to him. The attraction was almost instantanous unbeknowst to both of them. Their paths cross again at a London society event and from then on a web of mystery drags them ever closer to her finding her uncle and to each other.
Wendy Vella has done a fantastic job at weaving mystery, intrigue and a plot that has the reader turning the pages in anticipation of the climatic end. The characters have a strong connection and attraction to each other, and lastly we see some favourite Raven /Sinclair characters. I strongly recommend all of Wendy Vellas books you will not be disapointed.
i received an ARC for my honest opinion, all opionions are my own and freely given.
March 28, 2022
The calm port in a storm. The peacemaker at the heart of his volatile family. Michael Deville is able to keep his head while all others around him are losing theirs. He fascinated me from the beginning of the series, and I knew I needed to read more about him. Fiery, stubborn, opinionated, willful Freya was not who I pictured would be the answer to his forever. Yet, I can see exactly how the pair of them work together. They have more in common than they initially believe, but it’s through their differences that they challenge each other to be more than they were. They kept me guessing at what would happen next, laughing at their outrageous friends and family, and crossing my fingers that it would all work out in the end. I can’t wait to see what else the author has in store for us.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author.
March 25, 2022
What a wonderful addition to the Deville brothers series. Freya is in London for the season but she’s hiding her true self from everyone because she wants to return home to Scotland. Michael meets Freya at a cake cart and sees the true Freya before she knows who he is. This book was really interesting, there’s the intrigue of where is her missing uncle, the back and forth banter between Michael and Freya as he tries to get beneath the facade that she’s showing to the Ton. I loved it when they finally admit to each other what they’re truly feeling. And, as always there’s the exciting finale when all is revealed. Great book, wonderful series. I can’t wait to read the next instalment. I received this book from the Author. I’m voluntarily leaving my honest review.
March 29, 2022
My Favorite Deville
Michael has jumped up on my scale of Vella heroes, right to the top near Ace and Dev. He is just the perfect middle child. But that's the best part of the novel is the family and frienly interactions. I lived seeing all the past characters show up to hang. The wedding scene was especially memorable as I could see them bantering as if I were really there.
Freya was also a wonderful character who was strong and capable. No, she did not exactly need Michael, and that was amazing.
Michael has jumped up on my scale of Vella heroes, right to the top near Ace and Dev. He is just the perfect middle child. But that's the best part of the novel is the family and frienly interactions. I lived seeing all the past characters show up to hang. The wedding scene was especially memorable as I could see them bantering as if I were really there.
Freya was also a wonderful character who was strong and capable. No, she did not exactly need Michael, and that was amazing.
August 14, 2022
What an enjoyable read. The two main characters are Michael Deville and Freya MacDougall. They fall in love, but there is a lot of danger for them. Lovely characters, including some Sinclairs and Ravens. A wonderful story. 5☆
July 30, 2022
Another story that once started could not stop.
Really enjoying the Deville Brothers and their circle of friends, along with the women they learn to accept, protect, and love.
I especially enjoy the mix of intrigue, laughter, fear, anger, but especially romance that all blends together to enhance each storyline.
Michael and Freya battled a lot, but eventually found once another.
Really enjoying the Deville Brothers and their circle of friends, along with the women they learn to accept, protect, and love.
I especially enjoy the mix of intrigue, laughter, fear, anger, but especially romance that all blends together to enhance each storyline.
Michael and Freya battled a lot, but eventually found once another.
March 20, 2022
Welcome back to the adventures of the Devilles! I was asked to be on the ARC team to review Wendy Vella's new book & I'm pleased to say, Protected By A Devil has arrived!! I loved the storyline (as always) and got to visit to some of my favorite Raven & Sinclair characters as an added bonus. Love her characters the most. Each is well-developed and relatable. So happy to see the return of my favorite Duchess making life interesting to everyone around her! 🥰
March 23, 2022
Let me just start out saying that this book can easily be read as a standalone, but I would highly recommend reading the entire series. Many of the characters appear in each book - the Deville brothers make you laugh at their banter & antics with each other but then you sigh at their love & trust for one another. The Duchess of Yardly is another ongoing character - she is a senior that is mouthy, opinionated, dresses outrageously and makes many titled or non-titled gentlemen nervous but still brings the right touch of humor to the scenes!
Michael Deville is happy with his life - he is single, handsome with a smile that sends the ladies swooning, enjoying his freedom, is happy to serve his King, loves his brothers, cousin, niece, and the new sisters-in-law & their families. Life is good and then he meets a Scottish miss, Freya MacDougall, who storms into his comfortable life and turns his world upside down!
Freya MacDougall has been sent to London by her Scottish parents for one reason and that is to find a husband. She is spending the season with her aunt, the Duchess of Yardley, who will help her navigate the Ton and advise her on acceptable husband material. Problem is that Freya does not want to marry, hates London, and wants to return to Scotland and her parent and three younger brothers. Her uncle, the Earl of Buchanan, also lives in London and they are very close, but he has disappeared, and she is worried.
Michael and Freya's accidental and instant bantering meeting at Mr. Silac's Spice Cake Cart began their rocky, dangerous, suspenseful romance. The humor, fun bantering, kisses with some cloak and dagger kept me turning pages - I could not put it down until "The End"! I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
Michael Deville is happy with his life - he is single, handsome with a smile that sends the ladies swooning, enjoying his freedom, is happy to serve his King, loves his brothers, cousin, niece, and the new sisters-in-law & their families. Life is good and then he meets a Scottish miss, Freya MacDougall, who storms into his comfortable life and turns his world upside down!
Freya MacDougall has been sent to London by her Scottish parents for one reason and that is to find a husband. She is spending the season with her aunt, the Duchess of Yardley, who will help her navigate the Ton and advise her on acceptable husband material. Problem is that Freya does not want to marry, hates London, and wants to return to Scotland and her parent and three younger brothers. Her uncle, the Earl of Buchanan, also lives in London and they are very close, but he has disappeared, and she is worried.
Michael and Freya's accidental and instant bantering meeting at Mr. Silac's Spice Cake Cart began their rocky, dangerous, suspenseful romance. The humor, fun bantering, kisses with some cloak and dagger kept me turning pages - I could not put it down until "The End"! I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
March 26, 2022
This is the third book in the series about the Deville Brothers. Once again, Wendy Vella doesn’t disappoint. I love the mystery and intrigue associated with the Deville brothers being part of a secret alliance forged to protect the King. It adds a different aspect to the romance part of the story.
Michael Deville likes order and control but when he meets Freya his calm demeanor goes right out the window. Freya is beautiful and challenging and Michael doesn’t know quite how to handle her. Neither is looking for love, Freda has been hurt in the past and Michael is enjoying the single life. However, when Freya’s Uncle is not in London to meet her when she arrives she knows something is wrong and will not stop until she finds him. Michael is aware of what has happened to her Uncle and tries to keep her safe. As they are work together to solve the mystery of her Uncle’s disappearance will they accept what is developing between them? Will Freya forgive Michael when she realizes he knew that her Uncle was kidnapped?
I loved the interactions between Michael and Freya, the Duchess of Yardley adds humor to the story and it was lovely to have the added bonus of some of the Raven and Sinclair characters.
A truly enjoyable read and so looking forward to more books in this series. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book and am providing my honest assessment.
Michael Deville likes order and control but when he meets Freya his calm demeanor goes right out the window. Freya is beautiful and challenging and Michael doesn’t know quite how to handle her. Neither is looking for love, Freda has been hurt in the past and Michael is enjoying the single life. However, when Freya’s Uncle is not in London to meet her when she arrives she knows something is wrong and will not stop until she finds him. Michael is aware of what has happened to her Uncle and tries to keep her safe. As they are work together to solve the mystery of her Uncle’s disappearance will they accept what is developing between them? Will Freya forgive Michael when she realizes he knew that her Uncle was kidnapped?
I loved the interactions between Michael and Freya, the Duchess of Yardley adds humor to the story and it was lovely to have the added bonus of some of the Raven and Sinclair characters.
A truly enjoyable read and so looking forward to more books in this series. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book and am providing my honest assessment.
March 27, 2022
Their lives are about to forever change.
Freya MacDougall has secrets and a determination to never marry.
Micheal Deville has secrets and likes his life just as it is.
Too bad...because their lives are about to forever change.
She will challenge him at every turn, and he will protect her with his life.
Ain't love grand?
I adore romances with just the right mix of suspense, humorous dialogue, action, charming characters, passion, animals and a happily ever after.
Protected by a Devil has it all in spades. Wendy Vella's latest book, which is the third in The Deville Brothers series, is a page turner. I was so wrapped up in this book, I actually felt annoyed with each “necessary” interruption. But then again reading is my favorite pass time.
Each book has been outstanding, but I do believe that I have fallen in love with Michael Deville, and Freya is his equal in so many ways. Of course, the Duchess is her usual self, and all of the other Devilles are present to assist in solving the current mystery. There are a few new faces and creatures that threaten to steal scenes. But in the end, all turns out well. Also, readers of this book will be offered a bonus epilogue that is oh so very sweet.
Content 411: This book is pretty clean. There is a little bit of swearing, some passionate kissing and one mild intimacy scene.
Disclosure: I received a complementary of this book from the author via BookFunnel. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
Freya MacDougall has secrets and a determination to never marry.
Micheal Deville has secrets and likes his life just as it is.
Too bad...because their lives are about to forever change.
She will challenge him at every turn, and he will protect her with his life.
Ain't love grand?
I adore romances with just the right mix of suspense, humorous dialogue, action, charming characters, passion, animals and a happily ever after.
Protected by a Devil has it all in spades. Wendy Vella's latest book, which is the third in The Deville Brothers series, is a page turner. I was so wrapped up in this book, I actually felt annoyed with each “necessary” interruption. But then again reading is my favorite pass time.
Each book has been outstanding, but I do believe that I have fallen in love with Michael Deville, and Freya is his equal in so many ways. Of course, the Duchess is her usual self, and all of the other Devilles are present to assist in solving the current mystery. There are a few new faces and creatures that threaten to steal scenes. But in the end, all turns out well. Also, readers of this book will be offered a bonus epilogue that is oh so very sweet.
Content 411: This book is pretty clean. There is a little bit of swearing, some passionate kissing and one mild intimacy scene.
Disclosure: I received a complementary of this book from the author via BookFunnel. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
March 28, 2022
Wendy Vella is one of my favorite writers and she never fails to provide her readers with beautiful, historical romantic suspense. This book is another wonderful example of this. This book was just a joy to read and I ended up binge reading the whole thing in one afternoon. I loved the previous 2 Deville Brothers books, however of the 3 this is my favorite. I loved the banter and slowly growing tension between Michael and Freya as they struggle against acknowledging their attraction and developing feelings between them. Freya is visiting London and just wants to return to Scotland but has the mystery of her missing Uncle she is desperate to solve. Michael is every the controlled negotiator of the family but as he works to solve the mystery and keep Freya safe, he finds that control hard to maintain. I love how his brothers poke at him yet are supportive. I love seeing characters from her other books make an appearance (Sinclairs!). The story moves at a wonderful pace and the growth of Michael and Freya's relationship feels right and not rushed. The climatic ending had me sitting on the edge of my seat. Just a wonderful book that I highly recommend.
March 23, 2022
The early “Meet Cute” that Michael Deville and Freya MacDougall experience is anything but, as they disagree on pretty much everything. But Michael is still entranced by the fiery Scot. When their paths cross again in London society, Freya is a mere shadow of the impassioned woman that so intrigued Michael, and he is determined to find out why the change. When danger stalks a member of Freya’s family, Michael and his brothers, in their role as protectors of the monarchy, attempt to shield her from danger without revealing the secret world that they inhabit. This is a wonderful love story between these two who are more alike than even they realize. This book was provided by the author without any requirement for a review, positive or otherwise. All opinions are 100% my own.
March 26, 2022
This addition to the series is a page turner. It lays the foundation for this couple to fall in love. This mystery drives the plot and did a great job of entertaining and engaging me into their story. I love Freya's independence and drive to figure out the mystery although her past seems to dim her confidence to trust herself to love again. Love Michael, he's all alpha yet polite, he's consistently driven in all things and very protective of his loved ones. They have great chemistry, bump heads and have common personality traits but I think the romance is an afterthought and wish there had been more actual romancing time for them as a couple. Regardless, this story is very good and an attention grabber well worth reading. I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to read and leave a review.
March 21, 2022
FANTASTIC SERIES!
This is a stand alone, but I urge you to read this series. They all are filled with intrigue, suspense, villains, romance, great main and secondary character's, with cloak and dagger thrown in.
Oh how I love the Duchess of Yardly! She is such a feisty old broad who loves to shock people with her dress and mouth. She brings just the right touch of laughter to a scene. The Deville brother's give it right back to her so their banter is perfect.
This is a clean story with only kisses and one touch above the waist. Romance builds slowly and they are perfect together.
Nasty villains, no cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, romance and clean. I can't improve on the blurb, just recommending this story, series and author.
I received an advanced copy and all opinions are my own and freely given. (ljb)
This is a stand alone, but I urge you to read this series. They all are filled with intrigue, suspense, villains, romance, great main and secondary character's, with cloak and dagger thrown in.
Oh how I love the Duchess of Yardly! She is such a feisty old broad who loves to shock people with her dress and mouth. She brings just the right touch of laughter to a scene. The Deville brother's give it right back to her so their banter is perfect.
This is a clean story with only kisses and one touch above the waist. Romance builds slowly and they are perfect together.
Nasty villains, no cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, romance and clean. I can't improve on the blurb, just recommending this story, series and author.
I received an advanced copy and all opinions are my own and freely given. (ljb)
March 26, 2022
I was so excited to read about another one of the Deville brothers, and I was not disappointed! I could not put this book down, and even stayed up past my bedtime because I just wanted to keep reading! It is so clever and funny. I loved the instant chemistry and comfort between Freya and Michael, and of course the relationship between all the Devilles and the Duchess of Yardly is always enjoyable. Always fun to have characters from the other series pop in as well! I can't wait for more from this series! I absolutely loved this story!
March 18, 2022
I received and ARC of this book in exchange for a review.
I absolutely love this book. It is full of the mystery, intrigue and romance we have come to expect from Mrs. Vella. Both the heroine and and the hero are strong willed and tenacious. Freya has been hurt before and will attempt to guard her heart from Michael who does not wish to fall in love either. They both will try to find answers to missing noblemen while steadfastly denying their attraction. So jump in and enjoy the journey in store for these two.
I absolutely love this book. It is full of the mystery, intrigue and romance we have come to expect from Mrs. Vella. Both the heroine and and the hero are strong willed and tenacious. Freya has been hurt before and will attempt to guard her heart from Michael who does not wish to fall in love either. They both will try to find answers to missing noblemen while steadfastly denying their attraction. So jump in and enjoy the journey in store for these two.
March 28, 2022
Who wouldn’t fall in love with Michael??
A chance encounter in the pouring rain, spice cake, a conversation and a cat bring the “Scottish shrew” into Michael’s life. Michael leaves the encounter with a new member of the family and a woman he can’t forget. A mystery involving her cherished uncle and secrets Michael is forced to keep can bring them together or tear them apart.
A chance encounter in the pouring rain, spice cake, a conversation and a cat bring the “Scottish shrew” into Michael’s life. Michael leaves the encounter with a new member of the family and a woman he can’t forget. A mystery involving her cherished uncle and secrets Michael is forced to keep can bring them together or tear them apart.
March 27, 2022
Reaction
I always look forward to a new release and again I wasn't disappointed. What I love is the historical background interwoven with the characters. I love seeing friends from her other novels and the dynamics of friends and family. The author is on my mandatory preorder list and has never disappointed.
I always look forward to a new release and again I wasn't disappointed. What I love is the historical background interwoven with the characters. I love seeing friends from her other novels and the dynamics of friends and family. The author is on my mandatory preorder list and has never disappointed.
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March 26, 2022Available to read on Amazon now!
March 27, 2022
I received this book as an arc. This is my honest review. Michael and Freyr are very strong characters that will keep you entertained. This was the perfect story with plenty of chemistry and action. I highly recommend this story.
March 21, 2022
I absolutely loved this book! I have long been a fan of Wendy Vella, but hadn't read the Deville books. Can't wait to read the first two now! Loved the strong characters and the intrigue, and as always, the humor - I laughed out loud several times! And what a treat to have some of the Raven and Sinclair characters involved! Loved it!
March 24, 2022
4.5 stars
Michael Deville is my kind of hero! He's handsome, cool under pressure, and vicious if that's what the situation necessitates. Freya is his match in every way. She's beautiful, determined, and cunning. Most importantly, they both love full-throttle. Watching them lock horns, open up, and fall head over heels was a real treat. Getting a chance to catch up with some of the Raven and Sinclair family was also a nice bonus.
I received an ARC of this book from the author. This review is fair, honest, and entirely of my own making.
Michael Deville is my kind of hero! He's handsome, cool under pressure, and vicious if that's what the situation necessitates. Freya is his match in every way. She's beautiful, determined, and cunning. Most importantly, they both love full-throttle. Watching them lock horns, open up, and fall head over heels was a real treat. Getting a chance to catch up with some of the Raven and Sinclair family was also a nice bonus.
I received an ARC of this book from the author. This review is fair, honest, and entirely of my own making.
March 27, 2022
A lovely well crafted romance, the story felt fresh and the characters kept me engaged. Michael and Freya felt right for each other and this came across in the story.
May 2, 2023
Hilarious Dialogue
Amazingly witty and hilarious dialogue. This author really has a gift for Regency period humor.
The ending was a little predictable and Freya’s reaction was out of character and forced on the story.
Amazingly witty and hilarious dialogue. This author really has a gift for Regency period humor.
The ending was a little predictable and Freya’s reaction was out of character and forced on the story.
June 4, 2022
Love
Michael's story was so good. It was hard to put down and a page turner. He is the most calm of the brothers. She is the opposite of him. You can feel the pull between them.
Michael's story was so good. It was hard to put down and a page turner. He is the most calm of the brothers. She is the opposite of him. You can feel the pull between them.
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