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Scoundrels of St. James #2
Between the Devil and Desire
London's most notorious rogue—decadent, depraved, forbidden...
The ladies of the ton won't stop whispering about deliciously wicked Jack Dodger—once a thieving street urchin, now the wealthy owner of London's most exclusive gentleman's club. There's no pleasure he hasn't enjoyed, no debauchery the handsome scoundrel won't provide for the lords who flock to his house of carnal intrigue.
London's most virtuous lady—honorable, uncorrupted, and all too human...
Olivia, Duchess of Lovingdon, would never associate with such a rogue. So when Jack is named sole heir to the duke's personal possessions, the beautiful, well-bred lady is outraged. Now, Olivia is forced to share her beloved home with this despicable man.
Caught between the devil and desire...
But Olivia's icy disdain is no match for Jack's dangerous charm. His touch awakens desire. His kiss demands surrender. She will struggle to bar Jack from her heart...but her body, coveting divine release, will not let her bar him from her bed.
The ladies of the ton won't stop whispering about deliciously wicked Jack Dodger—once a thieving street urchin, now the wealthy owner of London's most exclusive gentleman's club. There's no pleasure he hasn't enjoyed, no debauchery the handsome scoundrel won't provide for the lords who flock to his house of carnal intrigue.
London's most virtuous lady—honorable, uncorrupted, and all too human...
Olivia, Duchess of Lovingdon, would never associate with such a rogue. So when Jack is named sole heir to the duke's personal possessions, the beautiful, well-bred lady is outraged. Now, Olivia is forced to share her beloved home with this despicable man.
Caught between the devil and desire...
But Olivia's icy disdain is no match for Jack's dangerous charm. His touch awakens desire. His kiss demands surrender. She will struggle to bar Jack from her heart...but her body, coveting divine release, will not let her bar him from her bed.
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 30, 2008
About the author
Lorraine Heath
70 books4,214 followersAlso writes Young Adult under Rachel Hawthorne, Jade Parker, and with her son as J.A. London.
Lorraine Heath has always had a soft spot for emotional love stories. No doubt because growing up, watching movies with her mom, she was taught that the best movies "won't half make you cry."
She is the daughter of a British beauty (her mom won second place in a beauty contest sponsored by Max Factor® during which she received a kiss from Caesar Romero, (the Joker on the original Batman TV series) and a Texan who was stationed at Bovingdon while serving in the air force. Lorraine was born in Watford, Hertfordshire, England, but soon after moved to Texas. Her "dual" nationality has given her a love for all things British and Texan, and she enjoys weaving both heritages through her stories.
When she received her BA degree in psychology from the University of Texas, she had no idea she had gained a foundation that would help her to create believable characters—characters that are often described as “real people.” She began her career writing training manuals and computer code for the IRS, but something was always missing. When she read a romance novel, she became not only hooked on the genre, but quickly realized what her writing lacked: rebels, scoundrels, and rogues. She's been writing about them ever since.
Her work has been recognized with numerous industry awards including RWA's RITA®. Her novels have appeared on bestseller lists, including USA TODAY and the New York Times.
The author of more than 60 novels, she writes historical and contemporary romance for adults and historical romance for teen readers.
Under the names Rachel Hawthorne and Jade Parker, she writes popular contemporary, historical, and paranormal romance for teens readers. She also writes young adult novels with her son under the name J. A. London.
Lorraine Heath has always had a soft spot for emotional love stories. No doubt because growing up, watching movies with her mom, she was taught that the best movies "won't half make you cry."
She is the daughter of a British beauty (her mom won second place in a beauty contest sponsored by Max Factor® during which she received a kiss from Caesar Romero, (the Joker on the original Batman TV series) and a Texan who was stationed at Bovingdon while serving in the air force. Lorraine was born in Watford, Hertfordshire, England, but soon after moved to Texas. Her "dual" nationality has given her a love for all things British and Texan, and she enjoys weaving both heritages through her stories.
When she received her BA degree in psychology from the University of Texas, she had no idea she had gained a foundation that would help her to create believable characters—characters that are often described as “real people.” She began her career writing training manuals and computer code for the IRS, but something was always missing. When she read a romance novel, she became not only hooked on the genre, but quickly realized what her writing lacked: rebels, scoundrels, and rogues. She's been writing about them ever since.
Her work has been recognized with numerous industry awards including RWA's RITA®. Her novels have appeared on bestseller lists, including USA TODAY and the New York Times.
The author of more than 60 novels, she writes historical and contemporary romance for adults and historical romance for teen readers.
Under the names Rachel Hawthorne and Jade Parker, she writes popular contemporary, historical, and paranormal romance for teens readers. She also writes young adult novels with her son under the name J. A. London.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 772 reviews
May 21, 2022
Reread/listened to the audiobook version May'2022:
This is a beautiful, poignant romance that tackles serious subject matter with honesty and grace. Still a big 5 star read for me!
Original rating/review Jan'2010:
5+ stars – Historical Romance
I loved this evocative story of two very different people from opposite social classes who form a deep, emotional connection and share an explosive passion that heals them both. It’s a poignant, romantic story with remarkable characters that stays with you long after you’ve finished reading it.
Notorious, devilishly wicked rogue Jack Dodger is the rich, powerful owner of London’s most famous, exclusive gentleman’s club, but no matter how much wealth he accumulates, he can’t escape the haunts of his tarnished, tortured past. Jack was orphaned to the rough streets of London’s dangerous rookeries as a boy of five and found refuge in a gang of child thieves under the tutelage of a man named Feagan. After living the life of a street urchin, enduring abuses and hardships, and engaging in numerous crimes, he eventually grew his fortune and has vowed to never let anyone harm him ever again, which also means never letting anyone past his hardened defenses or in his heart.
Olivia, Duchess of Lovingdon, is a lady bound by virtue, honor, and duty who has lived a stifled, strict existence, always in accordance with society’s rules and expectations, even at the sacrifice of her own will, desires, and happiness. Olivia is shocked to learn that her recently deceased (much older) husband has named debauched scoundrel Jack Dodger guardian of her five-year-old-son Henry and their estate. Now, the Duchess Olivia, a well-bred lady of upmost propriety, finds herself literally in the hands of a depraved scamp who holds no value in the rules of society.
The Duchess is appalled at having to share her home and the raising of her beloved son Henry with a deviant scoundrel like Jack, and he’s none too happy with the idea of having to tolerate and live with a stuffy, snobby, uptight, cold lady of society. But their mutual disdain doesn’t keep them from feeling a volatile, albeit unwanted and complicated, attraction that eventually evolves into cordial respect and something much deeper that neither expected and that has the potential for disaster, especially when devastating past secrets are revealed.
This story tackles some heavy, unpleasant, painful subjects, like child abuse, class differences, prejudice, and poverty, with an emotional honesty and intensity that’s heartbreaking, humbling, and inspiring. The story is affecting and brought tears to my eyes, but I didn’t feel like the author manipulated my emotions. There are just some harsh facts and realities of life that can’t be hidden or swept down the gutter. I think this story demonstrates beautifully that a person isn’t simply a product of their past or social position and how the choices we make in life can have irrevocable consequences.
This is the second book in the Scoundrels of St. James series, and although I enjoyed it immensely; I think I would have gotten even more out of it had I read the first book prior to this since there are some fairly significant plot points that carry on throughout the series.
Between the Devil and Desire is the type of story that stays with you long after it ends, and although there is a HEA, it’s more thought provoking and reflective, which I admired. I’m looking forward to reading the rest of this wonderful series.
This is a beautiful, poignant romance that tackles serious subject matter with honesty and grace. Still a big 5 star read for me!
Original rating/review Jan'2010:
5+ stars – Historical Romance
I loved this evocative story of two very different people from opposite social classes who form a deep, emotional connection and share an explosive passion that heals them both. It’s a poignant, romantic story with remarkable characters that stays with you long after you’ve finished reading it.
Notorious, devilishly wicked rogue Jack Dodger is the rich, powerful owner of London’s most famous, exclusive gentleman’s club, but no matter how much wealth he accumulates, he can’t escape the haunts of his tarnished, tortured past. Jack was orphaned to the rough streets of London’s dangerous rookeries as a boy of five and found refuge in a gang of child thieves under the tutelage of a man named Feagan. After living the life of a street urchin, enduring abuses and hardships, and engaging in numerous crimes, he eventually grew his fortune and has vowed to never let anyone harm him ever again, which also means never letting anyone past his hardened defenses or in his heart.
Olivia, Duchess of Lovingdon, is a lady bound by virtue, honor, and duty who has lived a stifled, strict existence, always in accordance with society’s rules and expectations, even at the sacrifice of her own will, desires, and happiness. Olivia is shocked to learn that her recently deceased (much older) husband has named debauched scoundrel Jack Dodger guardian of her five-year-old-son Henry and their estate. Now, the Duchess Olivia, a well-bred lady of upmost propriety, finds herself literally in the hands of a depraved scamp who holds no value in the rules of society.
The Duchess is appalled at having to share her home and the raising of her beloved son Henry with a deviant scoundrel like Jack, and he’s none too happy with the idea of having to tolerate and live with a stuffy, snobby, uptight, cold lady of society. But their mutual disdain doesn’t keep them from feeling a volatile, albeit unwanted and complicated, attraction that eventually evolves into cordial respect and something much deeper that neither expected and that has the potential for disaster, especially when devastating past secrets are revealed.
This story tackles some heavy, unpleasant, painful subjects, like child abuse, class differences, prejudice, and poverty, with an emotional honesty and intensity that’s heartbreaking, humbling, and inspiring. The story is affecting and brought tears to my eyes, but I didn’t feel like the author manipulated my emotions. There are just some harsh facts and realities of life that can’t be hidden or swept down the gutter. I think this story demonstrates beautifully that a person isn’t simply a product of their past or social position and how the choices we make in life can have irrevocable consequences.
This is the second book in the Scoundrels of St. James series, and although I enjoyed it immensely; I think I would have gotten even more out of it had I read the first book prior to this since there are some fairly significant plot points that carry on throughout the series.
Between the Devil and Desire is the type of story that stays with you long after it ends, and although there is a HEA, it’s more thought provoking and reflective, which I admired. I’m looking forward to reading the rest of this wonderful series.
November 28, 2021
This book was a good read but the end reveal was a bit much for me. Just saying It didn't ruin the book or anything but I could have done without it.
April 12, 2017
¡Advertencia! Esta serie puede provocar adicción… y yo ya me confieso seguidora incondicional.
Esta entrega me gustó muchísimo más que la primera. Inicia con dos personajes principales tan incompatibles como el agua y el aceite, por lo que asistir a su evolución, página tras página, es realmente delicioso.
A Jack ya lo conocíamos del primer libro, en que la verdad no me cayó muy bien, tanto por su personalidad como por la responsabilidad que tuvo en los hechos que afectaron la vida de Luke. Pero en este libro se cuenta su verdadera historia, los motivos que forjaron su temperamento… me conmovió que también fuera el único que siguiera preocupándose del líder de banda de ladrones que los cuidó cuando eran niños. En resumen, me enamoró y pasó a mi “salón de la fama” de protas masculinos.
Olivia también me encantó, aunque al principio era bastante irritante, pero eso también era absolutamente consecuente con su educación aristocrática y con la situación que se vio obligada a enfrentar a la muerte de su marido. Afortunadamente para ella, fue absolutamente "corrompida" por Jack.
Un desenlace muy emotivo, con importantes revelaciones, y con la tensión que quizá faltó en el primer libro.
Muy pero requete muy bueno.
Esta entrega me gustó muchísimo más que la primera. Inicia con dos personajes principales tan incompatibles como el agua y el aceite, por lo que asistir a su evolución, página tras página, es realmente delicioso.
A Jack ya lo conocíamos del primer libro, en que la verdad no me cayó muy bien, tanto por su personalidad como por la responsabilidad que tuvo en los hechos que afectaron la vida de Luke. Pero en este libro se cuenta su verdadera historia, los motivos que forjaron su temperamento… me conmovió que también fuera el único que siguiera preocupándose del líder de banda de ladrones que los cuidó cuando eran niños. En resumen, me enamoró y pasó a mi “salón de la fama” de protas masculinos.
Olivia también me encantó, aunque al principio era bastante irritante, pero eso también era absolutamente consecuente con su educación aristocrática y con la situación que se vio obligada a enfrentar a la muerte de su marido. Afortunadamente para ella, fue absolutamente "corrompida" por Jack.
Un desenlace muy emotivo, con importantes revelaciones, y con la tensión que quizá faltó en el primer libro.
Muy pero requete muy bueno.
December 28, 2020
The first 70% of the story was definitely heading towards a 5 star rating. Jack and Olivia were an unlikely pair but Lorraine Heath can really work her magic. The sexual tension between them was pretty hot. It doesn't help that I'm a sucker for the widow/single parent trope. And Jack Dodger easily captured my heart. Oh my word, the way he was around Henry made me SWOOOOON. Although I didn't like Olivia as much as I liked Catherine (the heroine from the first book), I did appreciate her protective spirit and the loyalty she had for Jack once she got to know him. One thing I didn't appreciate as much was all that shrieking she did. Not cool.
I found this book to be lacking in many areas, especially in the areas concerning abuse. Henry's first nanny was physically and emotionally abusing him but the only punishment she got was getting fired. Given Olivia's protectiveness of Henry, I was surprised she didn't do more after discovering what was happening.
Now in the area concerning the sexual abuse Jack suffered... I felt like it was a neglected part of the story. Unfortunately, I really don't believe romantic love can 'heal' the abuse and trauma one has suffered. I would've loved to have seen more of a development with that. The killing of Jack's abuser felt very rushed and if it was meant to bring closure, it certainly wasn't written in a way that portrayed that. Jack deserved so much more...
Ultimately it was the ending that ruined the story for me. Oh boy, I wanted to throw my Kindle across the room. I'm surprised it wasn't brought up more in other reviews. It's weird that Olivia's late husband turned out to be Jack's father... which means that Olivia is technically Jack's step-mother... and Henry is Jack's brother. That's seriously one fucked up family tree. This also means that Olivia and Jack can't be together because it's against the law for one to marry his father's ex-wife. This part was skimmed over. Do what you will with this information but it's a little too weird for me.
Ultimately, it was the lack of development where it mattered most and the icky ending that let this book down for me. I'm just really disappointed because I LOVED JACK and was prepared to rate this book 5 stars. The 2 stars are basically for him and Henry. I'm still going to finish this series but I hope the rest of the series doesn't have twists like this book.
Rating: 2/5
I found this book to be lacking in many areas, especially in the areas concerning abuse. Henry's first nanny was physically and emotionally abusing him but the only punishment she got was getting fired. Given Olivia's protectiveness of Henry, I was surprised she didn't do more after discovering what was happening.
Now in the area concerning the sexual abuse Jack suffered... I felt like it was a neglected part of the story. Unfortunately, I really don't believe romantic love can 'heal' the abuse and trauma one has suffered. I would've loved to have seen more of a development with that. The killing of Jack's abuser felt very rushed and if it was meant to bring closure, it certainly wasn't written in a way that portrayed that. Jack deserved so much more...
Ultimately it was the ending that ruined the story for me. Oh boy, I wanted to throw my Kindle across the room. I'm surprised it wasn't brought up more in other reviews. It's weird that Olivia's late husband turned out to be Jack's father... which means that Olivia is technically Jack's step-mother... and Henry is Jack's brother. That's seriously one fucked up family tree. This also means that Olivia and Jack can't be together because it's against the law for one to marry his father's ex-wife. This part was skimmed over. Do what you will with this information but it's a little too weird for me.
Ultimately, it was the lack of development where it mattered most and the icky ending that let this book down for me. I'm just really disappointed because I LOVED JACK and was prepared to rate this book 5 stars. The 2 stars are basically for him and Henry. I'm still going to finish this series but I hope the rest of the series doesn't have twists like this book.
Rating: 2/5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2016
Another solid read from this author. We met Jack in the previous book and had an inkling that he had a not so nice childhood.
London's most notorious rogue—decadent, depraved, forbidden...
The ladies of the ton won't stop whispering about deliciously wicked Jack Dodger—once a thieving street urchin, now the wealthy owner of London's most exclusive gentleman's club. There's no pleasure he hasn't enjoyed, no debauchery the handsome scoundrel won't provide for the lords who flock to his house of carnal intrigue.
London's most virtuous lady—honorable, uncorrupted, and all too human...
Olivia, Duchess of Lovingdon, would never associate with such a rogue. So when Jack is named sole heir to the duke's personal possessions, the beautiful, well-bred lady is outraged. Now, Olivia is forced to share her beloved home with this despicable man.
"You should visit sometime ..."
"Pardon?"
"Visit my world of depravity. I would do all in my power to welcome you properly.
Would he even wear a nightshirt?
Of course he would.
All gentlemen did.
But then Jack Dodger was no gentleman.
June 22, 2016
Jack is the bad boy of the scoundrels. He owns a gaming hell, and revels in sin and vice. He has very few morals or scruples. In fact, he starts the book out as quite the unfeeling ass hole. Olivia's husband has recently died and the resulting mess that he leaves her in is pretty wild. She and Jack Dodger are thrown together, along with her young son. The best part about this story was watching the cynical, loner man fall in love with both the proper Duchess and the precocious little boy. Lorraine Heath did a great job at making Dodger's change of heart so gradual that I didn't even realize it was happening until he was head over heels already. She's got subtlety down to perfection.
May 17, 2022
Absolutely fantastic. I LOVED Jack's story! Full review in my next vlog 5/16/22
March 4, 2020
Audio: 4 STARS!
Story: 4 STARS!
I loved how solid the premise was and the epilogue was AMAZING.
Story: 4 STARS!
I loved how solid the premise was and the epilogue was AMAZING.
November 13, 2021
TW for child abuse and pedophelia
Ummm I need more books with the "he was now my child's ward and I had to spend time with him" trope. Because this was amazing. I loved how Olivia is a Duchess, but she's now a widow and is appalled to find Jack Dodger named as her child's ward by her husband's will. She has no idea how her husband even knew Jack, who was a child criminal and now owns a gaming hell, or why he would name him in his will. That means that Olivia and Jack have to spend quite a bit of time together. I loved Olivia's son and how Jack was so good with him. Jack was dealing with a lot of trauma from his youth and was trying to work through those things while also uncovering why Olivia's son was such a nervous boy. It was cute watching her son open up to Jack and also watch Olivia start to fall for Jack. They were definitely different social classes, but I loved how Olivia pushes back against Jack and how Jack learns to trust her. It's no surprise, but this is another hit from Lorraine Heath for me!
Ummm I need more books with the "he was now my child's ward and I had to spend time with him" trope. Because this was amazing. I loved how Olivia is a Duchess, but she's now a widow and is appalled to find Jack Dodger named as her child's ward by her husband's will. She has no idea how her husband even knew Jack, who was a child criminal and now owns a gaming hell, or why he would name him in his will. That means that Olivia and Jack have to spend quite a bit of time together. I loved Olivia's son and how Jack was so good with him. Jack was dealing with a lot of trauma from his youth and was trying to work through those things while also uncovering why Olivia's son was such a nervous boy. It was cute watching her son open up to Jack and also watch Olivia start to fall for Jack. They were definitely different social classes, but I loved how Olivia pushes back against Jack and how Jack learns to trust her. It's no surprise, but this is another hit from Lorraine Heath for me!
August 9, 2023
Jack Dodger, a wealthy man who owns a prestigious gentleman's club. Having lived on the streets when he was younger, he craves wealth. So when he hears that the Duke of Lovingdon has died, but his will leaves him all his entailed wealth, if he agrees to be guardian to his son, he agrees but meets resistance with the mother, Olivia. Olivia is furious, after hearing the will and that she has no power, even as the mother of her son, to repute the offer to Jack Dodger. Jack is only doing this for the power and wealth, but despite tension between him and Olivia escalate, he starts to care for this young boy he is responsible for. And he starts to realize that there are a lot more important things besides wealth, but when desire and passion are cultivated between these two, they come to realize that love is the most dangerous weapon of all when it comes to defeating the shield around one's heart.
This is the second in the series, and I just fell in love with Jack Dodgers story. Jack grew up on the streets being a pickpocket and now he is more than ever determined to make as much money as he possibly can. So when he hears that he is supposed to be the guardian to a young impressionable boy. But his mother Olivia matches his strong will, and tension flows between them both. But as time continues there is a desire that rises and unable for either of them to resist. I truly fell in love with this story and the characters as well. Not only Olivia and Jack but the little boy, Henry. From the beginning Jack starts to learn what it means to have a family, and the bond between Jack and Henry become undeniably strong. At first, Jack's goal is to get Olivia married off to someone so he can just enjoy the rewards and not have to bear the responsibilities, but time passes and his relationship with Olivia strengthens to the point where he doesn't know if he can live without her in his life. This is such a heartwarming story, where love can melt the ice of any hardened heart and teach the true value of the healing power of love. This is probably one of my favorite series written by Lorraine Heath, for the plot flows and the characters are engaging, and the passion and love these two feel will brighten up any stormy day. Such a wonderful read!!!
This is the second in the series, and I just fell in love with Jack Dodgers story. Jack grew up on the streets being a pickpocket and now he is more than ever determined to make as much money as he possibly can. So when he hears that he is supposed to be the guardian to a young impressionable boy. But his mother Olivia matches his strong will, and tension flows between them both. But as time continues there is a desire that rises and unable for either of them to resist. I truly fell in love with this story and the characters as well. Not only Olivia and Jack but the little boy, Henry. From the beginning Jack starts to learn what it means to have a family, and the bond between Jack and Henry become undeniably strong. At first, Jack's goal is to get Olivia married off to someone so he can just enjoy the rewards and not have to bear the responsibilities, but time passes and his relationship with Olivia strengthens to the point where he doesn't know if he can live without her in his life. This is such a heartwarming story, where love can melt the ice of any hardened heart and teach the true value of the healing power of love. This is probably one of my favorite series written by Lorraine Heath, for the plot flows and the characters are engaging, and the passion and love these two feel will brighten up any stormy day. Such a wonderful read!!!
April 2, 2017
Si esta serie sigue con este nivel, ninguno de los libros van a bajar de las 4 estrellas!!!
Al igual que con el primer libro, la historia nos introduce en el mundo turbio de Londres como un guiño a Charles Dickens. En esta ocasión la historia trata de Jack Dodger, mejor amigo de Lucian, el protagonista de primer libro y que tiene el nivel más alto en ese grupo de amigos huérfanos.
Jack es un personaje muy complejo y que me ha gustado mucho como la autora ha escrito su evolución. Con un pasado traumático, este hombre que a ojos de la sociedad solamente es un bribón y un libertino redomado, en realidad es leal como el que más a las personas que el considera sus amigos y no hace más que ayudar a todas aquellas personas y sobre todo niños que viven en situaciones parecidas a las que él vivió. Y solamente dejará ver esa parte de su vida a Olivia, la mujer que el destino pone en su camino y que no solo cambiará su forma de ver la vida y sus sentimientos, sino también su fortuna.
Olivia es un personaje que, aunque fuerte, me ha gustado mucho menos que el personaje masculino. Y es que no me gustan aquellas protagonistas que desde un primer momento juzgan sin preguntarse si los rumores o los hechos son verdad y que siguen en sus trece a pesar de ver que no todo es como aparenta ser. Aún así, sus escenas con Jack sobre todo al final, han hecho que se redima bastante
Sobre la trama, solo puedo decir que me ha tenido en vilo en todo momento. El único pero que me ha hecho no ponerle 5 estrellas, ha sido que se ha solucionado todo demasiado rápido y me he quedado con una sensación un poco agridulce. Eso sí, el final ha sido lacrimógeno y ha hecho que me enamorara aún más de la historia.
Deseando leer el siguiente!!
Al igual que con el primer libro, la historia nos introduce en el mundo turbio de Londres como un guiño a Charles Dickens. En esta ocasión la historia trata de Jack Dodger, mejor amigo de Lucian, el protagonista de primer libro y que tiene el nivel más alto en ese grupo de amigos huérfanos.
Jack es un personaje muy complejo y que me ha gustado mucho como la autora ha escrito su evolución. Con un pasado traumático, este hombre que a ojos de la sociedad solamente es un bribón y un libertino redomado, en realidad es leal como el que más a las personas que el considera sus amigos y no hace más que ayudar a todas aquellas personas y sobre todo niños que viven en situaciones parecidas a las que él vivió. Y solamente dejará ver esa parte de su vida a Olivia, la mujer que el destino pone en su camino y que no solo cambiará su forma de ver la vida y sus sentimientos, sino también su fortuna.
Olivia es un personaje que, aunque fuerte, me ha gustado mucho menos que el personaje masculino. Y es que no me gustan aquellas protagonistas que desde un primer momento juzgan sin preguntarse si los rumores o los hechos son verdad y que siguen en sus trece a pesar de ver que no todo es como aparenta ser. Aún así, sus escenas con Jack sobre todo al final, han hecho que se redima bastante
Sobre la trama, solo puedo decir que me ha tenido en vilo en todo momento. El único pero que me ha hecho no ponerle 5 estrellas, ha sido que se ha solucionado todo demasiado rápido y me he quedado con una sensación un poco agridulce. Eso sí, el final ha sido lacrimógeno y ha hecho que me enamorara aún más de la historia.
Deseando leer el siguiente!!
February 5, 2012
**********SPOILER ALERT*********
This was such an un-enjoyable disturbing book to read! First of all, the romance between the leads had no chemistry what. So. ever! It was rather dull. The whole plot was implausible and way too over the top. In what part of 1800 England would a past criminal and thief with the letter T branded on his thumb live with a Lady without there being an uproar? And in what Bizarro world would it turn out that in the end what should happen but that the heroine’s dead husband turns out to be the hero’s father!!! Or that the heroine’s son turns out to be the hero’s brother!!! WAAAAAAT?!!! Yes that is exactly what happened. Can someone call the Jerry Springer show?
One of my pet peeves in romance novels is reading about sexual abuse of children in the story. I just cannot stomach it and hate it when authors just throw it in a book implying that the hero or heroine was molested as a child to drive some stupid plot. I read to get away from that kind of sickness and I hate reading about it in my romance. If you’re not going to do it right like,Redeeming Love, then don't do it at all!It wasn't done right in this book that I regretted buying after reading 15%.
This was such an un-enjoyable disturbing book to read! First of all, the romance between the leads had no chemistry what. So. ever! It was rather dull. The whole plot was implausible and way too over the top. In what part of 1800 England would a past criminal and thief with the letter T branded on his thumb live with a Lady without there being an uproar? And in what Bizarro world would it turn out that in the end what should happen but that the heroine’s dead husband turns out to be the hero’s father!!! Or that the heroine’s son turns out to be the hero’s brother!!! WAAAAAAT?!!! Yes that is exactly what happened. Can someone call the Jerry Springer show?
One of my pet peeves in romance novels is reading about sexual abuse of children in the story. I just cannot stomach it and hate it when authors just throw it in a book implying that the hero or heroine was molested as a child to drive some stupid plot. I read to get away from that kind of sickness and I hate reading about it in my romance. If you’re not going to do it right like,Redeeming Love, then don't do it at all!It wasn't done right in this book that I regretted buying after reading 15%.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2023
This one hurt. 🤧 No review until HarperCollins enters a fair bargain with their union.
March 14, 2018
*** 4 Te Prohíbo que me gustes Jack ***
Obviamente este libro no me gustó tanto como el de Luke ese libro fue especial, una historia redonda donde los dos protagonistas me encantaron.
En cambio aquí Olivia no me gustó en gran parte del libro al principio era demasiado estirada y prejuiciosa y Jack al principio iba predispuesta con él por lo que le hizo a Luke soy muy rencorosa pero me terminó gustando mucho su personaje y sé que no la tuvo fácil.
Los secretos y plot twist fue bastante predecible ya me las olía a más de 5 km, no fue tan sorprendente y siento que le faltó profundidad a lo que le pasó a Jack de niño.
Obviamente este libro no me gustó tanto como el de Luke ese libro fue especial, una historia redonda donde los dos protagonistas me encantaron.
En cambio aquí Olivia no me gustó en gran parte del libro al principio era demasiado estirada y prejuiciosa y Jack al principio iba predispuesta con él por lo que le hizo a Luke soy muy rencorosa pero me terminó gustando mucho su personaje y sé que no la tuvo fácil.
Los secretos y plot twist fue bastante predecible ya me las olía a más de 5 km, no fue tan sorprendente y siento que le faltó profundidad a lo que le pasó a Jack de niño.
December 21, 2014
Me ha gustado mucho, quizás más que el primero
Esos dos protagonists tan opuestos, tanto en clase social como en ideas de conducta. Ese corazón de oro que tiene Jack, ese pasado. En el fondo los dos comparten una existencia prácticamente vacía.
Me encantan las novelas de tiras y aflojas, y los diálogos irónicos.
Quizás no tenga un argumento muy original, pero los dos personajes se comen la historia
Esos dos protagonists tan opuestos, tanto en clase social como en ideas de conducta. Ese corazón de oro que tiene Jack, ese pasado. En el fondo los dos comparten una existencia prácticamente vacía.
Me encantan las novelas de tiras y aflojas, y los diálogos irónicos.
Quizás no tenga un argumento muy original, pero los dos personajes se comen la historia
January 8, 2010
4.5 for this one. It was as difficult to put down as "In Bed with the Devil" but I didn't love the heroine as much.
Olivia, the Duchess of Lovingdon, is recently widowed. As the story opens she waits for the reading of her much older husband's will. The only other person present is notorious scoundrel, Jack Dodger, who is there at Lovingdon's request.
As her husband's solicitor reads the will we know that Olivia most strongly wants the house she's been living in for herself and her son. Her son will be inheriting the entailed properties as the new, five-year-old, Duke. But what happens is that, not only has Jack Dodger inherited the house she's made a home, he's inherited every single unentailed property the duke owned.
He's also been named the guardian of the heir. WTF?!
Well it seems like the explanation is obvious, but as back story comes in it really isn't quite so much. There are other possibilities. By the time the 'reveal' happens, however, there's little doubt about what's going on so it's only a surprise to the characters. Still, it's a good setup and moving conclusion.
So what was my problem? I completely understood Olivia's shock and anger at what her husband did with his will. She remained at the house with her son at Jack's pleasure. She had no reason to trust him. He was insolent and rude and I doubt I'd have been any nicer about it. So that's not really the problem. The problem was that the acrimony lasted a bit longer than I had hoped it would. Which made her eventual turn around (and it's a big one by the end) feel sort of shallow and abrupt.
With "In Bed with the Devil" the heroine, Catherine, was already a woman who bucked society's expectations. Olivia is the exact opposite and she ends up with an infamous scoundrel who doesn't even have a title! Seems like there should be a longer period of transition needed to make a decision like that.
Another little problem I had was that Olivia was the sister of the villain of the last book. But that was never used in any way. None of the other characters even raised an eyebrow or stumbled over a word when he was brought up. Granted, she didn't know that her brother was an uber-villain, but several others did and the man was brought up a couple of times in their presence. If it wasn't going to impact the story, why bother? It's a mild distraction, but a distraction it is.
I really love this series. It's got some very difficult subject matter and not all the threads are tied up nicely by the end. There's a lingering bittersweetness to some of the story, but that only serves to make the HEA that much more moving. Because the 'happily' is tempered with a dark reality that makes the 'ever after' appreciated in the extreme. And this makes the conclusion feel more joyous than it would if we were expected to forget the past and only look to the future.
Both of the stories I've read in this series have haunted me after I've finished reading them. I'm definitely excited about this author.
Olivia, the Duchess of Lovingdon, is recently widowed. As the story opens she waits for the reading of her much older husband's will. The only other person present is notorious scoundrel, Jack Dodger, who is there at Lovingdon's request.
As her husband's solicitor reads the will we know that Olivia most strongly wants the house she's been living in for herself and her son. Her son will be inheriting the entailed properties as the new, five-year-old, Duke. But what happens is that, not only has Jack Dodger inherited the house she's made a home, he's inherited every single unentailed property the duke owned.
He's also been named the guardian of the heir. WTF?!
Well it seems like the explanation is obvious, but as back story comes in it really isn't quite so much. There are other possibilities. By the time the 'reveal' happens, however, there's little doubt about what's going on so it's only a surprise to the characters. Still, it's a good setup and moving conclusion.
So what was my problem? I completely understood Olivia's shock and anger at what her husband did with his will. She remained at the house with her son at Jack's pleasure. She had no reason to trust him. He was insolent and rude and I doubt I'd have been any nicer about it. So that's not really the problem. The problem was that the acrimony lasted a bit longer than I had hoped it would. Which made her eventual turn around (and it's a big one by the end) feel sort of shallow and abrupt.
With "In Bed with the Devil" the heroine, Catherine, was already a woman who bucked society's expectations. Olivia is the exact opposite and she ends up with an infamous scoundrel who doesn't even have a title! Seems like there should be a longer period of transition needed to make a decision like that.
Another little problem I had was that Olivia was the sister of the villain of the last book. But that was never used in any way. None of the other characters even raised an eyebrow or stumbled over a word when he was brought up. Granted, she didn't know that her brother was an uber-villain, but several others did and the man was brought up a couple of times in their presence. If it wasn't going to impact the story, why bother? It's a mild distraction, but a distraction it is.
I really love this series. It's got some very difficult subject matter and not all the threads are tied up nicely by the end. There's a lingering bittersweetness to some of the story, but that only serves to make the HEA that much more moving. Because the 'happily' is tempered with a dark reality that makes the 'ever after' appreciated in the extreme. And this makes the conclusion feel more joyous than it would if we were expected to forget the past and only look to the future.
Both of the stories I've read in this series have haunted me after I've finished reading them. I'm definitely excited about this author.
October 17, 2016
From the blurb:
Now, you my poor Jack Dodger, had everything going for you. I was looking forward to your story; in fact, I was hoping that you, at least, would show some true bad-boy attitude, with you being the owner of London's most notorious gaming hell and all. Unfortunately, you've been pressed into the same boring and predictable cookie-cutter hero style that your creator seems to prefer. Apart from a few swear words (nothing heavy, of course: Bloody hell or Damn are indeed extremely offensive!), your love for whiskey and your threat that you 'wouldn't stop at a simple kiss', you're a pretty tame guy. So tame, in fact, that I couldn't stop rolling my eyes whenever you were 'threatening' Olivia again. On top of it, you've been forced into constant self-flegellation, feeling unworthy of the angelic Olivia. You know, it's okay to have some self-doubts, but your author kept it up for almost 90% of the story. To call it exhausting is a slight understatement.
I so wish you'd been given into the hands of a different author who knows how to write decadent, depraved and forbidden heroes.
What can I say about Olivia? Errr, at the moment, nothing comes to my mind. Again, any attempts of the author to make her a little more daring are instantly smothered by endless repetitions of how sinful and shameful her feelings were.
Yet, how they managed to lust after each other from the first moment on, is a mystery to me. These two should have joined a convent/monastery, for all I care. No, seriously, if I consider how much time is spent by the main characters about thoughts of lust, I would have expected my Kindle to be on fire. But I didn't feel it. Zero. Nada. No sexual chemistry.
I think it's time to dust off my copy of Devil in Winter.
London's most notorious rogue—decadent, depraved, forbidden...Oh, Jack Dodger, I've had such high hopes for you. That description above alone...But then, you had some big shoes to fill. Why is it again that Lisa Kleypas' characters Derek Craven and Sebastian, Lord St. Vincent are so popular again? Or think of Dain from Lord of Scoundrels. Ah yeah, there was enough naughtiness and wickedness in them that I, as the reader knew, that - despite their redemption - they'd always stay a little wicked, a little naughty.
Now, you my poor Jack Dodger, had everything going for you. I was looking forward to your story; in fact, I was hoping that you, at least, would show some true bad-boy attitude, with you being the owner of London's most notorious gaming hell and all. Unfortunately, you've been pressed into the same boring and predictable cookie-cutter hero style that your creator seems to prefer. Apart from a few swear words (nothing heavy, of course: Bloody hell or Damn are indeed extremely offensive!), your love for whiskey and your threat that you 'wouldn't stop at a simple kiss', you're a pretty tame guy. So tame, in fact, that I couldn't stop rolling my eyes whenever you were 'threatening' Olivia again. On top of it, you've been forced into constant self-flegellation, feeling unworthy of the angelic Olivia. You know, it's okay to have some self-doubts, but your author kept it up for almost 90% of the story. To call it exhausting is a slight understatement.
I so wish you'd been given into the hands of a different author who knows how to write decadent, depraved and forbidden heroes.
What can I say about Olivia? Errr, at the moment, nothing comes to my mind. Again, any attempts of the author to make her a little more daring are instantly smothered by endless repetitions of how sinful and shameful her feelings were.
Yet, how they managed to lust after each other from the first moment on, is a mystery to me. These two should have joined a convent/monastery, for all I care. No, seriously, if I consider how much time is spent by the main characters about thoughts of lust, I would have expected my Kindle to be on fire. But I didn't feel it. Zero. Nada. No sexual chemistry.
I think it's time to dust off my copy of Devil in Winter.
March 19, 2015
Poor Jack... I knew since the first book that he has suffered greatly... Poor boy... I hate !!!
I admired him for his courage and his overcoming everything that happened to him. Obviously that left scars on his body and soul, but I loved that he was so tender with Olivia and Henry.
He was also fun and his teasing Olivia made me laugh. And she was so easy to tease! LOL
Olivia, at the beginning, was like an example of women from that era: straitlaced, proper, snob, cold... a bore. The only positive think I could see then was her love for her son. But, as the book went on, Jack managed to make her inner personaly, which she was so successfully hiding, come out and shine.
Even if they're so very ill suted at the beginning, they were just perfect at the end! I loved how Ms. Heath made that happen! Brava!
I admired him for his courage and his overcoming everything that happened to him. Obviously that left scars on his body and soul, but I loved that he was so tender with Olivia and Henry.
He was also fun and his teasing Olivia made me laugh. And she was so easy to tease! LOL
Olivia, at the beginning, was like an example of women from that era: straitlaced, proper, snob, cold... a bore. The only positive think I could see then was her love for her son. But, as the book went on, Jack managed to make her inner personaly, which she was so successfully hiding, come out and shine.
Even if they're so very ill suted at the beginning, they were just perfect at the end! I loved how Ms. Heath made that happen! Brava!
January 15, 2024
2nd Read, Jan 2024
Ughhh LH just makes these books hurt so good. I love this series so much, this book and characters are top tier. Immaculate, amazing, perfection. Doing the audios this time for my reread and just so good!
1st Read, Oct 2021
Between the Devil and Desire is book 2 in Lorraine Heath’s Scoundrels of St. James series. And I loved it to pieces! This series centers around a group of friends who came from the streets as children, stealing and thieving as “Feagan’s Children”. The series does have darker content and some of the CW includes: violence, murder, rape, selling of children, pedophilia. The characters in this series have dark pasts and seeing each of them get their HEA is so satisfying. This book I was especially excited to get to as I loved the spin-off series, Scandalous Gentleman of St. James, and the first book in that series (When the Duke was Wicked) is one of my all-time favs from LH and features the son of the heroine of this story. So I loved seeing him as a young child here and of course seeing all the family/friends in this universe.
Jack Dodger owns and runs a successful private club/gambling hall, Dodger’s Drawing Room. But Jack’s success had not come easy: his mother sold him at 5-years-old and he eventually ended up on the streets being raised and taught my Feagan to steal and pickpocket with other children (who remain his friends in adulthood), he then served in prison at just 10-years-old. Imagine Jack’s surprise when he is informed to attend the reading of a will of a Duke he barely knew…and then to find out the late Duke gave the rest of his estate to Jack as well as the guardianship of his 5-year-old son Henry. Olivia Stanford, Duchess of Lovingdon, is 25-years old and a widow. She’s shocked and infuriated to learn of Jack’s guardianship over her young son Henry and Jack’s presence in her life now that he plans to move in to oversee what parts of the estate he’s inherited.
I loved Jack and Olivia’s relationship. She definitely has animosity towards him in the beginning, this stranger of a man coming in and having a say over her life and possessions. But overtime they’re relationship grows and their slow burn of a romance was so delicious. Olivia was the daughter of a Duke and raised to be a dutiful daughter who married her father’s friend (25 years older than her). She’s always done what is right and proper for her station and while there was no love between her and the late Duke, she has a fondness for him and plans to properly mourn him. And Jack just comes in and ruffles her proper-feathers and turns her life upside down. I love that this series changes the aristocratic characters instead of trying “to better” the characters who grew up on the streets. I loved all the moments in this with Olivia’s son Henry, he and Jack form a friendship and I loved every minute of seeing their bond grow (Jack getting him a puppy 🥰). It was also fun to see Jack convince Livy to join he and Henry on their outing to the Great Exhibition and gives her menswear to disguise herself. I loved that Jack is trying to help young orphaned boys, giving them proper jobs so they don’t get themselves into trouble on the streets. And the epilogue with Jack’s journal entry! 🥺 I just loved everything about this book (and series) and don’t even have all the words to express it.
Ughhh LH just makes these books hurt so good. I love this series so much, this book and characters are top tier. Immaculate, amazing, perfection. Doing the audios this time for my reread and just so good!
1st Read, Oct 2021
Between the Devil and Desire is book 2 in Lorraine Heath’s Scoundrels of St. James series. And I loved it to pieces! This series centers around a group of friends who came from the streets as children, stealing and thieving as “Feagan’s Children”. The series does have darker content and some of the CW includes: violence, murder, rape, selling of children, pedophilia. The characters in this series have dark pasts and seeing each of them get their HEA is so satisfying. This book I was especially excited to get to as I loved the spin-off series, Scandalous Gentleman of St. James, and the first book in that series (When the Duke was Wicked) is one of my all-time favs from LH and features the son of the heroine of this story. So I loved seeing him as a young child here and of course seeing all the family/friends in this universe.
Jack Dodger owns and runs a successful private club/gambling hall, Dodger’s Drawing Room. But Jack’s success had not come easy: his mother sold him at 5-years-old and he eventually ended up on the streets being raised and taught my Feagan to steal and pickpocket with other children (who remain his friends in adulthood), he then served in prison at just 10-years-old. Imagine Jack’s surprise when he is informed to attend the reading of a will of a Duke he barely knew…and then to find out the late Duke gave the rest of his estate to Jack as well as the guardianship of his 5-year-old son Henry. Olivia Stanford, Duchess of Lovingdon, is 25-years old and a widow. She’s shocked and infuriated to learn of Jack’s guardianship over her young son Henry and Jack’s presence in her life now that he plans to move in to oversee what parts of the estate he’s inherited.
I loved Jack and Olivia’s relationship. She definitely has animosity towards him in the beginning, this stranger of a man coming in and having a say over her life and possessions. But overtime they’re relationship grows and their slow burn of a romance was so delicious. Olivia was the daughter of a Duke and raised to be a dutiful daughter who married her father’s friend (25 years older than her). She’s always done what is right and proper for her station and while there was no love between her and the late Duke, she has a fondness for him and plans to properly mourn him. And Jack just comes in and ruffles her proper-feathers and turns her life upside down. I love that this series changes the aristocratic characters instead of trying “to better” the characters who grew up on the streets. I loved all the moments in this with Olivia’s son Henry, he and Jack form a friendship and I loved every minute of seeing their bond grow (Jack getting him a puppy 🥰). It was also fun to see Jack convince Livy to join he and Henry on their outing to the Great Exhibition and gives her menswear to disguise herself. I loved that Jack is trying to help young orphaned boys, giving them proper jobs so they don’t get themselves into trouble on the streets. And the epilogue with Jack’s journal entry! 🥺 I just loved everything about this book (and series) and don’t even have all the words to express it.
November 29, 2021
cw: child abuse & pedophilia
August 15, 2019
Loved it!!!! This series so far is amazing! Highly recommend it if you like Historical Romance.
March 16, 2018
Tan pendiente dejé la reseña que hasta ahora vengo a hacerla... Confieso que cada día estoy más vaga para reseñar pero venga, allá que voy.
ARGUMENTO
Por un lado tenemos a Olivia, una mujer que acaba de quedarse viuda y con un hijo de 5 años.
Y por el otro tenemos a nuestro ya conocido Jack, otro de los niños de Feagan (creo que se escribía así, ya sabéis, los nombres y yo...) o por si no lo entendéis la pandilla de niños carteristas. Y pensaréis ¿que tienen que ver el uno con el otro? Pues eso se están preguntando ambos, cuando se ven sentados el uno al lado del otro cuando se lee el testamento del difunto marido de Olivia. Jack no sabe que pinta allí, no habló más que una vez con el tipo, así que no tenía ni idea de a que venía que lo mandasen llamar. Olivia estaba igual, Jack era el epítome de los escándalos entre la sociedad: dueño de un casino y demás pecados que escondía aquel edificio, no podía entender porque estaba en la lectura del testamento de su marido.
Hasta que las cosas se vuelven claras: ahora Jack es el tutor de Henry, el hijo de Olivia y también quien llevará las riendas de la mayoría de las propiedades de Olivia al menos hasta que esta se case con otro hombre.
¿Alguien estará de acuerdo? Pues no, y no va a ser un camino de rosas para estos dos.
Bueno veréis, os voy a resumir perfectamente el primer 60% del libro: OLIVIA ERES UNA MALDITA PETARDA, TOCAHUEVOS, REPELENTE, CAPRICHOSA, TONTA Y DEMÁS ADJETIVOS DESCALIFICATIVOS PARA TI. Fue tal la manera en la que esta mujer me consumía la paciencia que por más de una vez me planteé abandonar el libro. Fue muy, muy difícil mantenerme leyendo a una persona que no sabía hacer otra cosa que quejarse, juzgar a los demás y volver a quejarse. Llega a un punto que a parte de hartar, cansa.
Pero bueno, una vez que a Olivia le vuelve el riego al cerebro o algo por el estilo, la cosa mejora bastante. Aún así, sigue sin ser Luke. Nada puede superar a ese hombre. Que no digo que este libro no tuviese sus cosas buenas, lo que más me gustaba fue leer las partes en las que Jack se dedicaba a enseñarle cosas a Henry, me ablandaba el corazón totalmente.
En fin, que ha estado bien, pero sin más. Ya no venía yo con muchas ganas a leerlo así que es posible que eso también influyese en mi opinión, por lo que, como digo siempre, cada uno que se forme su propia opinión que la opinión de la mayoría no siempre tiene que ser la correcta.
ARGUMENTO
Por un lado tenemos a Olivia, una mujer que acaba de quedarse viuda y con un hijo de 5 años.
Y por el otro tenemos a nuestro ya conocido Jack, otro de los niños de Feagan (creo que se escribía así, ya sabéis, los nombres y yo...) o por si no lo entendéis la pandilla de niños carteristas. Y pensaréis ¿que tienen que ver el uno con el otro? Pues eso se están preguntando ambos, cuando se ven sentados el uno al lado del otro cuando se lee el testamento del difunto marido de Olivia. Jack no sabe que pinta allí, no habló más que una vez con el tipo, así que no tenía ni idea de a que venía que lo mandasen llamar. Olivia estaba igual, Jack era el epítome de los escándalos entre la sociedad: dueño de un casino y demás pecados que escondía aquel edificio, no podía entender porque estaba en la lectura del testamento de su marido.
Hasta que las cosas se vuelven claras: ahora Jack es el tutor de Henry, el hijo de Olivia y también quien llevará las riendas de la mayoría de las propiedades de Olivia al menos hasta que esta se case con otro hombre.
¿Alguien estará de acuerdo? Pues no, y no va a ser un camino de rosas para estos dos.
Bueno veréis, os voy a resumir perfectamente el primer 60% del libro: OLIVIA ERES UNA MALDITA PETARDA, TOCAHUEVOS, REPELENTE, CAPRICHOSA, TONTA Y DEMÁS ADJETIVOS DESCALIFICATIVOS PARA TI. Fue tal la manera en la que esta mujer me consumía la paciencia que por más de una vez me planteé abandonar el libro. Fue muy, muy difícil mantenerme leyendo a una persona que no sabía hacer otra cosa que quejarse, juzgar a los demás y volver a quejarse. Llega a un punto que a parte de hartar, cansa.
Pero bueno, una vez que a Olivia le vuelve el riego al cerebro o algo por el estilo, la cosa mejora bastante. Aún así, sigue sin ser Luke. Nada puede superar a ese hombre. Que no digo que este libro no tuviese sus cosas buenas, lo que más me gustaba fue leer las partes en las que Jack se dedicaba a enseñarle cosas a Henry, me ablandaba el corazón totalmente.
En fin, que ha estado bien, pero sin más. Ya no venía yo con muchas ganas a leerlo así que es posible que eso también influyese en mi opinión, por lo que, como digo siempre, cada uno que se forme su propia opinión que la opinión de la mayoría no siempre tiene que ser la correcta.
February 14, 2009
Reviewed for queuemyreview.com; book release Jan09
Lorraine Heath’s books are a bit of a treat for me. Her characters are always interesting (both male AND female), the plots always have a bit of a twist, and the heat between the hero and heroine is always sizzling. “Between the Devil and Desire” lives up to all of the above and includes a subplot of heroes in rags-to-riches circumstances in her ‘Scoundrels of St James’ series.
Olivia is a Duchess who prides herself on her proper behavior. She was a dutiful daughter who married a much older man at her father’s behest and provided the required heir. Her husband never visited her bed again and she spends all her love and devotion on her young son. After her husband dies, she’s shocked to find out that the man her husband the Duke named as guardian to her five year old son and the future Duke is none other than the “deliciously wicked Jack Dodger”. How long can a woman who’s never experienced real pleasure hold out against a man who’s an expert at delivering it?
Jack Dodger’s mother sold him when he was a boy of five. He escaped from his cruel ‘owner’, renamed himself, and found a new home and family under the tutelage of Feagan—manager of the best gang of child thieves in London’s rookeries. He’s come a long way since those days, as have his childhood friends. He’s currently the owner and manager of the best and most exclusive ‘men’s club’ in London, Dodger’s Drawing Room, where for a high fee, men can safely and anonymously indulge their vices. They can gamble, drink, dance…but no one, NO ONE is allowed to harm anyone who works for Jack, he protects what’s his because he remembers being vulnerable. Jack’s life revolves around his quest for more money—because money equals safety. When he’s offered a king’s fortune to act as guardian for the son of a Duke he hardly knew, Jack’s suspicious…but he’s also not about to let a nagging virago of a Duchess keep him from earning a fortune!
Jack was such a complex character. The bad boy with a heart of gold…badly tarnished and totally wicked, but only in the best ways! Heath did a great job of portraying the gradual change in her lead characters’ relationship; once you accept the premise of her plot, the unfolding of the story is believable and gradual. I must confess that I found Olivia mostly forgettable and I did find the connections at the ending a bit dubious, but after enjoying the rest of the story I won’t quibble.
“Between the Devil and Desire” provided me a few hours of enjoyable escapism. It made me laugh and smile and even the bit of danger at the end wasn’t too terribly menacing. That’s another point in Lorraine Heath’s favor, in my opinion, she writes stories that don’t try TOO hard. They’re smooth, they’re hot, they’re enjoyable, and they just make me feel lighter when I’m done.
Lorraine Heath’s books are a bit of a treat for me. Her characters are always interesting (both male AND female), the plots always have a bit of a twist, and the heat between the hero and heroine is always sizzling. “Between the Devil and Desire” lives up to all of the above and includes a subplot of heroes in rags-to-riches circumstances in her ‘Scoundrels of St James’ series.
Olivia is a Duchess who prides herself on her proper behavior. She was a dutiful daughter who married a much older man at her father’s behest and provided the required heir. Her husband never visited her bed again and she spends all her love and devotion on her young son. After her husband dies, she’s shocked to find out that the man her husband the Duke named as guardian to her five year old son and the future Duke is none other than the “deliciously wicked Jack Dodger”. How long can a woman who’s never experienced real pleasure hold out against a man who’s an expert at delivering it?
Jack Dodger’s mother sold him when he was a boy of five. He escaped from his cruel ‘owner’, renamed himself, and found a new home and family under the tutelage of Feagan—manager of the best gang of child thieves in London’s rookeries. He’s come a long way since those days, as have his childhood friends. He’s currently the owner and manager of the best and most exclusive ‘men’s club’ in London, Dodger’s Drawing Room, where for a high fee, men can safely and anonymously indulge their vices. They can gamble, drink, dance…but no one, NO ONE is allowed to harm anyone who works for Jack, he protects what’s his because he remembers being vulnerable. Jack’s life revolves around his quest for more money—because money equals safety. When he’s offered a king’s fortune to act as guardian for the son of a Duke he hardly knew, Jack’s suspicious…but he’s also not about to let a nagging virago of a Duchess keep him from earning a fortune!
Jack was such a complex character. The bad boy with a heart of gold…badly tarnished and totally wicked, but only in the best ways! Heath did a great job of portraying the gradual change in her lead characters’ relationship; once you accept the premise of her plot, the unfolding of the story is believable and gradual. I must confess that I found Olivia mostly forgettable and I did find the connections at the ending a bit dubious, but after enjoying the rest of the story I won’t quibble.
“Between the Devil and Desire” provided me a few hours of enjoyable escapism. It made me laugh and smile and even the bit of danger at the end wasn’t too terribly menacing. That’s another point in Lorraine Heath’s favor, in my opinion, she writes stories that don’t try TOO hard. They’re smooth, they’re hot, they’re enjoyable, and they just make me feel lighter when I’m done.
February 5, 2024
So no. I did not like this book at all. I've had the book for awhile. I got it right after I finished the last book in the series because I loved that one so much and I was so excited to learn more about Jack. But god I hated Olivia. She was your typical woman of the ton. She followed the rules to a T. Everything everyone did was improper and everything she did was perfect. I hated the banter between Jack and Olivia. They poked at each other and I understand that it was meant to be humorous but to me it just sounded ridiculous and most of it was childish and it kind of made me hate Jack.
The storyline goes incredibly slow. Which I get because Olivia is in mourning and they are complete opposites. I did love the relationship of Jack and Henry. I think they were cute and that Jack actually made a fantastic guardian. But I hated Olivia's transformation. She goes from this prissy proper lady to having sex on a train while her son and nanny are a few cars away. Just doesn't seem plausible. But whatever.
This is what I really hated. What was incredibly disgusting, was the ending. Even though you can kind of see it coming. The whole time I thought there is no way the author is going to do this. It just can't happen. Its freaking nasty. It's just very messed up and made me want to throw up a little bit.
I've read a few reviews and I do not understand why people aren't more freaked about it. Maybe I'm making too big a deal about it. But I just don't think I am. This book was a complete train wreck.
The storyline goes incredibly slow. Which I get because Olivia is in mourning and they are complete opposites. I did love the relationship of Jack and Henry. I think they were cute and that Jack actually made a fantastic guardian. But I hated Olivia's transformation. She goes from this prissy proper lady to having sex on a train while her son and nanny are a few cars away. Just doesn't seem plausible. But whatever.
This is what I really hated. What was incredibly disgusting, was the ending. Even though you can kind of see it coming. The whole time I thought there is no way the author is going to do this. It just can't happen. Its freaking nasty. It's just very messed up and made me want to throw up a little bit.
I've read a few reviews and I do not understand why people aren't more freaked about it. Maybe I'm making too big a deal about it. But I just don't think I am. This book was a complete train wreck.
August 3, 2019
5 This is what I am talking about Stars
It’s very hard for me to find a historical romance book that I can give 5 stars. There has to be a little bit of everything to make it great.
Between the Devil and Desire just sucked me in. It was simply a good story.
First off, I love a single mama book and you throw in a widow well that’s full on if you ask me.
Olivia was amazing Heroine. She did her duty and married for the sake of the family. She liked her husband but didn’t love him. Now she’s a widow with a 5-year own son. I didn’t know back in the day women didn’t even have guardianship of your own child!
Jack Dodger was introduced a little in the first book. Usually you could read these books out of order, but I wouldn’t with this one. The backstory is everything.
Jack is named the guardian of Olivia’s son and oh boy, the kicker is that they don’t know each other. Who does that? Why did her late husband name Jack the guardian?
That was the mystery element of the book and I simply gobbled it up. I liked how different Jack was to Olivia. He was rough, unrefined and very intense.
This is a slow-burn read, but once you get into it, it’s like fireworks.
I liked the way the book was written. I felt the chemistry between Jack and Olivia was good, I liked the storyline and I liked the overall tension. I liked how I never knew where things were going to go and I liked that we still get a little bit of the gang in the book. I will 100% keep reading the series.
It’s very hard for me to find a historical romance book that I can give 5 stars. There has to be a little bit of everything to make it great.
Between the Devil and Desire just sucked me in. It was simply a good story.
First off, I love a single mama book and you throw in a widow well that’s full on if you ask me.
Olivia was amazing Heroine. She did her duty and married for the sake of the family. She liked her husband but didn’t love him. Now she’s a widow with a 5-year own son. I didn’t know back in the day women didn’t even have guardianship of your own child!
Jack Dodger was introduced a little in the first book. Usually you could read these books out of order, but I wouldn’t with this one. The backstory is everything.
Jack is named the guardian of Olivia’s son and oh boy, the kicker is that they don’t know each other. Who does that? Why did her late husband name Jack the guardian?
That was the mystery element of the book and I simply gobbled it up. I liked how different Jack was to Olivia. He was rough, unrefined and very intense.
This is a slow-burn read, but once you get into it, it’s like fireworks.
I liked the way the book was written. I felt the chemistry between Jack and Olivia was good, I liked the storyline and I liked the overall tension. I liked how I never knew where things were going to go and I liked that we still get a little bit of the gang in the book. I will 100% keep reading the series.
March 25, 2020
Between the Devil and Desire
4 Stars
As the owner of a gaming hell, Jack Dodger is the last person one would entrust with the care of a small child. Yet, he not only inherits the late Duke of Lovingdon's fortune, but is named guardian to his young son. Olivia Stanford, the boy's mother, is not amused that a debauched scoundrel is living in her home and is not shy about voicing her opinion. The only problem is her incomprehensible attraction to the rogue...
While the plot twists are obvious from miles away, the journey toward the actual revelations is entertaining nonetheless.
Jack and Olivia have exceptional chemistry and their love/hate banter is fun. Jack is charming and witty, and his obvious affection for young Henry makes him all the more appealing. The fact that he is tortured to boot is icing on the cake.
Olivia is a likable heroine overall, but her preoccupation with society's dictates and tendency toward self-righteousness is tiresome at times. Thankfully, this doesn't last too long and she does eventually get over herself.
The romance and minor suspense plot deal with some darker issues, such as child abuse, poverty and the vagaries of social class, with tact and sensitivity.
In sum, another well-written and engaging story by Lorraine Heath and I really need to read more of her books.
4 Stars
As the owner of a gaming hell, Jack Dodger is the last person one would entrust with the care of a small child. Yet, he not only inherits the late Duke of Lovingdon's fortune, but is named guardian to his young son. Olivia Stanford, the boy's mother, is not amused that a debauched scoundrel is living in her home and is not shy about voicing her opinion. The only problem is her incomprehensible attraction to the rogue...
While the plot twists are obvious from miles away, the journey toward the actual revelations is entertaining nonetheless.
Jack and Olivia have exceptional chemistry and their love/hate banter is fun. Jack is charming and witty, and his obvious affection for young Henry makes him all the more appealing. The fact that he is tortured to boot is icing on the cake.
Olivia is a likable heroine overall, but her preoccupation with society's dictates and tendency toward self-righteousness is tiresome at times. Thankfully, this doesn't last too long and she does eventually get over herself.
The romance and minor suspense plot deal with some darker issues, such as child abuse, poverty and the vagaries of social class, with tact and sensitivity.
In sum, another well-written and engaging story by Lorraine Heath and I really need to read more of her books.
September 29, 2016
Maravillosa. Ya me fascinó cuando la leí hace algunos años y ahora me ha vuelto a dejar con esa sensación de felicidad que debería causar siempre la novela romántica. Él es un personaje tan bien construido que te atrapa desde el primer momento y de lo único que tienes ganas es de estar en el lugar de la viuda que es la protagonista de la historia. Ella encaja perfectamente en su época y en sus circunstancias, por lo que el contraste entre ambos es perfecto. La pareja por sí sola sostendría la novela, pero la autora nos regala un pequeño misterio que también engancha, además de los secundarios (algunos ya los conocemos de la anterior entrega) que están donde tienen que estar, en la medida justa para colaborar en el avance de la historia. El estilo de escritura es ágil sin ser extremadamente sencillo y la combinación de diálogos y narración, muy equilibrada. La recomiendo encarecidamente. Imprescindible, si te gusta la romántica histórica.
March 2, 2022
Με Βάσω κ Ιουλία 🥰
January 29, 2019
Me alegra haber reprimido mi entusiasmo y elegir dar cuatro estrellas a la primera parte pese a que me encantó porque esta me ha gustado incluso más y la he devorado; las cinco estrellas son merecidísimas. Jack es un personaje fantástico; ya me había gustado como secundario en la anterior entrega, pero aquí me ganó por completo. Tiene muchos defectos y eso lo hace aun mejor, más humano y alguien por quien es sencillo sentir empatía; su relación con Henry es hermosa y me atrevería a decir que a veces el romance con Olivia palidecía en comparación, pero en realidad se trata de un todo muy bonito que conmueve ♥ Como hizo en la primera entrega, la autora trata temas muy difíciles con buen oficio y eso es un plus enorme a una historia que de por sí enamora. Quiero más de los chicos de Feegan, así que espero ponerme pronto con los que siguen.
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