Devil by Daylight

The Heart of a Duke #20

by Christi Caldwell

A lady en route to a winter house party
Mature, sensible Honoria Fairfax has never forgotten the chance meeting she had with a mysterious stranger at a forbidden masquerade years ago. She might be a spinster firmly—and happily—on the shelf, but she cherishes the memory of their illicit embrace. After finding and escorting a lost child home, Honoria is thrilled and worried to find herself face to face with the man who lives in her wicked memories.

A disgraced and cynical earl
Feared and revered, Tormund Stone, the Earl of Rockford, finds himself appointed guardian to his late brother's daughter, just as he is ousted from the Home Office. When the girl arrives, she does so without governess and for all the skills he's attained in service to the Crown, 'taking care of children' was not among them. What's a career-minded man to do?

A holiday romance to remember
Never one to waste an asset, he convinces Honoria to take on the role of temporary governess. Tormund never forgot the woman he met in the shadows during a long ago assignment. His attraction to her burns just as bright, but even more surprising is the way Honoria's warm presence makes the three feel like a family.

Can Honoria and Tormund each set aside their past and create a bright future? It's the holiday season, a time when anything can happen. And for Tormund and Honoria, it promises to be a time of hope...and new beginnings—together!

Genres: Romance, Historical Romance, Adult, Historical Fiction, Regency, Fiction, Historical

181 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 29, 2022

About the author

USA TODAY Bestselling author CHRISTI CALDWELL blames Judith McNaught's "Whitney, My Love!" for luring her into the world of historical romance. While sitting in her graduate school apartment at the University of Connecticut, Christi decided to set aside her notes and pick up her laptop to try her hand at romance. She believes the most perfect heroes and heroines have imperfections, and she rather enjoys torturing them before crafting them a well deserved happily ever after!

Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.

Reviews

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

A chance encounter at a masquerade ball is not forgotten by Tormund Stone, the Earl of Rockford, and Honoria Fairfax. Fate steps in three years later when Honoria rescues his niece. A neglectful uncle, Tormund is despondent over losing his position with the Home Office. What does he do without his work? Honoria, his niece and the spirit of Christmas thaw his frozen heart. Can he overcome fear and keep Honoria in his life. A heartwarming story about the power of love.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

[Elaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honoria Fairfax met a stranger at a masquerade, and she still remembers their illicit embrace. Honoria is still a spinster, left on the shelf, although she meets ("him" again) Tormund, the Earl of Rockford. Tormund is guardian to his late brother's daughter, and Honoria is her temporary governess.
A romantic story. Loved the characters. 4☆

[belle ☆ﾐ (thisbellereadstoo) · Rating 4 out of 5]

quick romantic story starring honoria and tormund. he was a spy for the country until an incident left him scarred and too recognisable to be a secret agent. she is a spinster, on her way to her friend’s when she saw a young girl walking around in the snow unattended. having felt unwanted when she was younger, honoria decided she will become sara’s temporary governess until sara’s uncle found one for her. overall, the relationship developed pretty quickly but it was really sweet. tormund and honoria never thought they would find someone of their own and experience love.

[Sandra R · Rating 4 out of 5]

An engaging historical romance. Mostly dramatic, but some lighthearted scenes. 3.5

[Lou Ambrose’s Library · Rating 4 out of 5]

For what it was I liked it. I wanted more! I wanted some adventure! Explanation on what happened to Charles and what will come of Sara. The novella tho made for quick Xmas read. In October…

[Pam Bereznak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since 2015, I have read hundreds and hundreds of different authors but I only have 31 authors that I consider my favorites and have read all their books (in my genre). Christi Caldwell is definitely one of those authors. This is my 77th book by Christi Caldwell. I read 2 of her books in 2013 but didn’t pick her up again to read faithfully until 2015.

My reviews are different from a lot I see. I don't give reviews that repeat everything in an author’s synopsis. I actually don’t even read those anymore so I am totally surprised on all aspects of the story. No hint of spoilers of any kind. I mostly read my established authors anyway and know they'll write a good story so not a big deal not reading the synopsis. I am also reluctant to say too much in my reviews as to give any hint of what happens. I think I’m a pretty good judge of a good or bad book so I just want people to know if a book is an awesome read, great read, good read, okay read or bad read. 😊

I just love Christi Caldwell’s writing. She always has such great stories, good characters and well written sex scenes. This story was no different. I couldn’t put this book down. I liked Honoria and Tormund. I loved their interactions, their personalities, their story. So damn good.

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mature, sensible Honoria Fairfax has never forgotten the chance meeting she had with a mysterious stranger at a forbidden masquerade years ago. She might be a spinster firmly and happily on the shelf, but she cherishes the memory of their illicit embrace. After finding and escorting a lost child home, Honoria is thrilled and worried to find herself face to face with the man who lives in her wicked memories. Feared and revered, Tormund Stone, the Earl of Rockford, finds himself appointed guardian to his late brother's daughter, just as he is ousted from the Home Office. Never one to waste an asset, he convinces Honoria to take on the role of temporary governess. Tormund never forgot the woman he met in the shadows during a long ago assignment.
A lovely addition to this absolutely amazing series. Whilst it’s the twenty first book in the series it’s easily read on its own, the characters are wonderful & the pace is good. I loved this sort of second chance romance & devoured it in a sitting. I loved both Tormund & Honoria the chemistry between them was electric but it was Sara who stole the book. I loved this quick read & wanted it to be longer & to see Tormund & Honoria tie the knot
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[Tiffany Carden · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been waiting on Honoria's story a long time. Devil by Daylight is a great read with some great secondary characters. I really like the attraction and between Honoria Fairfax and Tormund Stone. I am so glad that fate threw them back together. Honoria has appeared in multiple Heart of a Duke books, and Tormund is a former employee of the home office. He is charged with taking care of his brother's orphan, Sara. Honoria is such a kind soul and helps him care for Sara all the while the chemistry is sizzling. I really like the intrigue that was presented in this book. My only complaint is that I think this book could have been longer and delved into all the spy drama. I find myself with so many questions about that aspect of the book. I am hoping that Sara gets her own story some day and that sooner rather than later, we have a very in depth story with Charles and Mrs. Lawrence that brings us all the answers to these questions because I love a historical romance with a little suspense thrown in. I have loved Christi Caldwell from the beginning, and I highly recommend her Heart of a Duke series.

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adored this book! Honoria has vowed never to marry due to her parent's horrible relationship. Tormund, the Earl of Rockford, has vowed never to love. Honoria is stranded at an inn on her way to visit a friend for Christmas when she sees a child in the snow. She takes the child Sara back to her uncle's home. Sara is a plucky 8-year-old who is wise beyond her years. Sara's Uncle is no longer able to work for the crown since he was scarred. He doesn't trust her, thinking she is working for an enemy. He lets her stay to take care of Sara temporarily. As he watches Sara and Honoria interact with each other his heart begins to melt. There were a few twists and turns in the story that made it very satisfying. It is a wonderful feel-good story. I love all of Christi Caldwell's books and the fact that she dedicated this one to one of her 8-year-old daughters made it even more special.

[Ghazal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was most fortunate to receive an ARC of one of the sweetest stories I have read in a while. Devil by Daylight is written by the incredible and marvelous Christi Caldwell.
Miss Honoria Fairfax believes herself firmly on the shelf at the age of 31. Tormund Stone, Earl of Rockford is a bleak, pessimistic, and grouchy former scarred spy who is suddenly in charge of his very unwanted, but  captivating 8 year old niece, Lady Sara, after the death of her father, his younger brother. I think Miss Sara is the star of this fabulous story with her straight forward no nonsense attitude. I absolutely loved the brooding hero who learned to love without knowing he was loving Sara and her temporary governess, Honoria. The subtle but definite change in Tormund is heartwarming, as is the courageous, independent Honoria whenever she faces off with Tormund. Wonderful characters, superb storyline, a must read.

[Rosemary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honoria first met Tormund at a masquerade party, and they shared an embrace. Honoria is a spinster and around thirty years old. Tormund is an ex-spa who never had or wanted a committed relationship, until he is left with his niece Sara after his brother died. Tormund does not know what to do with Sara until a governess is hired. Honoria meets Sara in town and decides to bring her home to her uncle, but she will not leave her with someone who does not care for her, so she agrees to stay with Sara (and Tormund) until a governess is found. Sara, who is pleasant and strong, turns Tormund from grumpy to nice all the while falling for him. I always enjoy Christi Caldwell’s writing style and her books, and I enjoyed this one also.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am leaving my honest opinion.

[CATHERINE BURHANS · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the Heart of a Duke series and Honoria and Tormund’s story is a wonderful addition! This is such a heartwarming romance between a Spinster, well on the shelf and a mature 41 year old Earl who has given his whole life in service to the crown. Neither have ever been in love before. When he loses his job and inherits his eight year old niece, he is grumpy and depressed. When the little girl wanders off and is returned home by Honoria, she suddenly finds herself the child’s temporary governess, in the middle of Christmastide. It’s a wonderful time of year as singing Christmas carols and snowball fights bring joy to the household. The grumpy Earl observes the interaction between the governess and child, til his heart softens and the possibility of love blooms. Their love story is a delight!

[Marianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very lovely story of Honoria and Tormund. Honoria is a spinster who decided never to marry or love since she saw her parents in a bad marriage. Tormund has retired from the Home Office after over 20 years of being a "spy." He has been alone for so many years. Then we have Lady Sara, Tormund's niece, whose father has perished in service to his country. Sara now lives with the aloof Tormund. I hate reading spoiler reviews, so all I can tell you is that you will fall in love with this sweet, precocious child. You will also enjoy the banter between Tormund and Honoria as they discover that being alone isn't for them! Get this story, make some hot chocolate and sit back and enjoy the beauty of love.

[Suzette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful

Christi Caldwell writes romantic stories with heart and soul. Honoria is a spinster who is wary of men due to her parents relationship. Tormund is an Earl who worked for the Home Office. There is also Sara who is a dynamite 8 year old girl. All together the characters are interesting and a wonderful compilation. They are witty and funny. Honoria and Tormund spend time sparring as the sparks fly in their relationship. There are surprises to discover in the plot that add to the intrigue. It is sweet and happy Christmas for the couple as the story ends.

[Gayla McNicholas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I patiently waited for Honoria's book, confident that Christi would write her a story worth waiting for. I was not disappointed! Tormund Stone was a deliciously tortured hero. In true Christ Caldwell style this book was easy to sink into and become absorbed into the story. I feel like I know these characters. I wish I could get to meet them. Barring that I happily settle for the few hours I get to live in each book.
I received an advanced readers copy of this book and have given my voluntary and honest review.

[Pat Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a lovely story about Honoria, who ,growing up without good examples of Love chooses to forego it and a man groomed to not think of it at all. I loved how Lady Sara, an impish 8 year old ,brings such wisdom into the story. Thormund, our hero thinks he has lost everything, his job, his brother, his life as he knows it, only to discover a different life , if he is willing to reach out and take it. It is a heartwarming story, with some questions not answered, but have a feeling will possibly be another story or one I haven’t read yet. Thoroughly enjoyed this one!

[Susan Sieger · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read

I enjoyed reading about Tormund and Honoria, how they met to how they fell in love. She was a spinster and he was working for the Home Office, he was looking for evidence and she had been looking for her friend at a masquerade party(orgy). He lost his job at the Home Office because he'd been found out and humiliated and on top of that he'd thought he lost his brother, was left with his niece who he had no idea what to do with, then along came Honoria to wake him up. He enjoyed her gumption and joy of living. I very highly recommend this book! 👍👍👍👍👍❤❤❤❤❤

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite hero types - Grumpy McGrumperson and boy did Christi write him spot on. There’s sunshine and hope and giggles sprinkled throughout this lovely story. Tormund, Honoria and Sara form this perfect unit and begin understanding one another until everything changes. Do you like surprises? The story took a turn but in a very good way and I love how Christi turned that surprise into something wonderful. Damn it, had to get out the tissues once again.

I received a complimentary copy from the author.

[Gloria Pastorino · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yes to a grumpy ex spy! And yes to a kind, sunny woman who melts his heart of Stone (pun intended!). I know that I’m repeating myself, but a Christi Caldwell’s book is always a treat for me. I open it and I can’t seem to put it down. Her books are invariably entertaining, refreshing, emotional, gorgeously written, with vivid characters, both main and secondary ones, and this was everything I came to expect from her. I loved it from the first line to the last! A wonderful five star book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Devon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Over twenty books later and I've fucking done it, I've read them all. God, it was so fucking good. Very much enjoyed the entire series as well as every other Christi Caldwell series I've read.

Miss Honoria Fairfax getting her happy ending after waiting years and years, big love to ya sis.

Cute lil moment from Lord Rutland and Pheebs, my favourites, in this. I wanna reread their book but also now need to go read The Brethen series to fill in some plot holes. Also, still waiting for Primly's story which is being released weekly for Americans, bastards.

[Lisa C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing story of Tormund Stone, the Earl of Rockford, a former agent for the Home Office and Honoria Fairfax, a spinster on her way to a friend's house for Christmas. Tormund is a tortured soul, but Honoria's light beckons him to come out of his self-imposed prison and live again. His niece, a lovely, precocious child keeps them both on their toes, and it's lovely to watch. This will be a re-read every Christmas from now on.

[Lori D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another addition to this entertaining series!

A long ago thrilling embrace, stays in the memory of these two fated to find each other again.

Unexpectedly the lady ends up on his doorstep, bringing he niece, now his new ward. What could be better that she become the temporary governess.

With the charming niece and an attraction that cannot be denied, the journey to happiness thoroughly enjoyable!!

[Donald J. Merical · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

I loved this book. But I felt like it was like a cake. You got all mixed up put in cake pans. But for some reason you did not put it in the oven and cook it. I felt like it was rushed and not finished. I went back and checked some of her older heart of the duke books. Which I have all of them and have read them. They are about 100 pages longer and not rushed at the end. Hence the cake was cooked and finished. maybe its just me.

[Nancy T Vega · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Child Alone/A Promise/A Love..

Never having been kissed Honoria feels her life has lost much happiness because she’s never had any one in her life. And the first person she meets feels like a tornado- neither can get along with each other- but there’s something that binds them together & as every thing begins to grow there is a huge surprise that they must both face- & Tormund doesn’t do well with others…

[mary dewan · Rating 4 out of 5]

The love affair between Tormund and Honoria had romantic tension and love. Unfortunately the initial coupling of the lovers was ludicrous. Think sofa and arc. Ms. Caldwell is a good writer and storyteller until we get to the sex scenes.

Whatever happened to the aunt, Lady Margaret, after the duel? One of the duelists married Phoebe a close friend of Honoria's.

[Layne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spies,Governess and Spitfire

As always, Christi Caldwell takes you on a journey that includes a former spy who now has charge of his 7 year old niece who is way smarter than the average youngster and a "governess" who tears into him because he has no idea where his niece really is or what to do with her if he did know. Oh this one has it all and I loved every page!!!

[Joanna Macaulay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun story with humor and good characterization

I enjoy spy stories, even if the character's spying days were over quickly. There was lots of fun things in the story with a spunky little girl interesting in unusual hobbies. Christi always makes you cheer on the heroine and creates interesting and unusual characters. Steamy.

[Tami Fidler · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a much shorter story than I imagined, but I really enjoyed the story regardless. I really liked Honoria, she had so much fire and was so forthright and good. The book even had a little bit of steam. I did not realize it was sorta a Christmas story, so I will make sure to put it in the rotation next Christmas time.

[Nessa · Rating 3 out of 5]

SHORT BUT A LITTLE TOO INSTA-LOVEY DESPITE THE INITIAL FRICTION. I couldn't buy into the romance, even though it's supposed to be something like a Scrooge meets the love of his life. I didn't for a second believe that a cold man like TORMUND could open his heart so easily in a matter of days. This would have been better off as a slow burn, though it read more like romance ON STEROIDS.

[Emily Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars!

Would def read again. And again. Finally we get Honoria’s story! It was soooo worth the wait! An absolute delight to read. This book will captivate you from beginning to end. Loved it!