Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Devilish Debutantes #2

Hell in a Hand Basket

Rate this book
Thus reads the Banns of marriage between Lord Harold Brookes and Miss Sophia Babineaux.
"If any of you know cause why these two should not be joined in Holy matrimony, ye are to declare it."

Would anyone declare it?

Please?

THE BRIDE wants to declare it. The heat Sophia feels for another man has given her a bad case of cold feet! She’d never even been kissed, how was she to know the importance of sizzle? By the time she realizes her mistake it may be too late...

THE GROOM never wanted to marry Sophia in the first place. His interests (ahem) lie elsewhere. Unfortunately, with a duke for a father, Lord Harold has no say in the matter at all.

So it’s up to war hero and rake, Captain Devlin Brookes to set matters right. He’s just returned from war and ready to settle down, unfortunately the girl he wants is, well, ah… unavailable.

But he has a plan.

Once set in motion, one lie turns into a spiral of deceit and guilt. Was one shot at heaven worth a lifetime of hell?

Because love endures but the heart has it’s limits.

Or does it?

311 pages, ebook

First published January 21, 2018

Loading interface...
Loading interface...

About the author

Annabelle Anders

66 books1,270 followers
Married to the same man for over 25 years, I am a mother to three children and two Miniature Wiener dogs.

After owning a business and experiencing considerable success, my husband and I got caught in the financial crisis and lost everything in 2008; our business, our home, even our car. 

At this point, I put my B.A. in Poly Sci to use and took work as a waitress and bartender (Insert irony). Unwilling to give up on a professional life, I simultaneously went back to college and obtained a degree in Energy Management.

And then the energy market dropped off.

And then my dog died.

I can only be grateful for this series of unfortunate events, for, with nothing to lose and completely demoralized, I sat down and began to write the romance novels which had until then, existed only my imagination.
After publishing over twenty novels now, with one having been nominated for RWA’s Distinguished ™RITA Award in 2019, I am happy to tell you that I have finally found my place in life.

Thank you so much for being a part of my journey!

To find out more about my books, and also to download a free novella, get all the info at my website!

www.annabelleanders.com
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER: https://www.annabelleanders.com/newsl...
FOLLOW ME ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Annabelle-Ande...
AND FACEBOOK: :https://www.facebook.com/Annabelle.An...
AND BOOKBUB: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/annab...

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
363 (50%)
4 stars
247 (34%)
3 stars
82 (11%)
2 stars
24 (3%)
1 star
9 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
Profile Image for Annabelle Anders.
Author 66 books1,270 followers
August 2, 2022
Okay, as the author, I've got to say 5 stars, right? I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I did writing it. I've fallen in love with these characters and am working on Emily's story next. :) I'll wrap up the series with Rhoda... dear, dear Rhoda... :)
Profile Image for Becky (romantic_pursuing_feels).
960 reviews1,058 followers
February 24, 2024
Note: Some of my goodreads shelves can be spoilers

Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞 (There’s something really romantic about an enduring love like this – the obstacles this couple overcomes is rather astounding)
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥
Humor: A bit but overall it’s a heavier book
Perspective: Third person from both the hero and heroine
More character focused or plot focused? a mix but maybe more plot?
How did the speed of the story feel? medium
When mains are first on page together: almost immediately – Chapter 1 (about 2-3% in)
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: Yes, a few months in the future (4 months or so)
Format: listened to the audiobook from the library (Hoopla)
(Descriptions found at end of my review)

Should I read in order?
I think overall this series would be better in order as there’s some character cross over and events referenced, but overall this one does focus mostly on the main couple so rebel readers will probably be fine.

Basic plot:
Sophia finds herself in a total muddle when she realizes she doesn’t love her betrothed, but his cousin instead...

Give this a try if you want:
- Regency (?)
- forbidden love/taboo vibes – heroine is engaged to hero’s cousin
- affair
- captain hero
- pets – heroine has a dog
-
- LGBT positive
- low to mid steam – 2 full scenes

Ages:
- heroine is 20, didn’t catch hero

First line:
Sophia tugged at the leading string to draw Peaches closer to the hem of her dress.

My thoughts:
I think I said the first book of this series put me on a roller coaster and I had a variety of feelings about it – I feel similarly about this book! I think I liked it a bit more than book, but it’s still such a unique story and a bit crazy.

I don’t mind the ‘adultery’ aspect here, but I think the plot points and separations of the mains dwindled my enjoyment a bit. This couple had so much working against them and I was on my toes the whole time and was left wanting to just have the time to get to know the mains well and enjoy some longing between them.

I cannot help but think that this series would make absolutely amazing TV.

I did really love both main characters! I think I wouldn’t reread this one, but again another really memorable book unlike anything else I’ve read in HR.

Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.


Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:


Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
Profile Image for Sissy's Romance Book Review .
8,912 reviews16 followers
January 20, 2018
Hell in a Hand Basket by Annabelle Anders is book Two in the "Devilish Debutantes" series.
I have read the previous book (and loved it!) "Hell Hath No Fury", but feel you can make this a standalone book if you choose to do so.
Captain Devlin Brookes has sold his commission after being in service for about eleven years and has bought property near Surrey, Dartmouth Place which he has coveted for most of his life. Dev who is nephew of a Duke is thinking of taking the next step in addition to buying property is to take a wife.
Just as that thought entered his mind he came upon an accident that Sophia Babineaux was involved in. Dev helped to save Sophia and her dog Peaches. Dev did steal some kisses from Sophia during the rescue and wondering if she wouldn't be the women to court.
Sophia is a smart caring women who didn't know anything of sparks when kissing a man so when Lord Harold Brookes asked her to marry him a while back she was content. But after her encounter with Dev she knows there is more out there than what she first thought. Harold has never drawn these feelings forward as Dev has. Harold hasn't even kissed her and only does an air kiss to her hand. With Dev he makes her feel that he would die without her touch.
I so loved the first book in this series but I might have to lean toward this one being my favorite. I just know I cannot wait for more books from this author!!
Loved it!!

Profile Image for Violet.
20 reviews
July 27, 2018
Full disclosure, I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Ok, what to say besides wow. I burnt thru this book in one sitting.
An excellent read that keeps you on edge trying to figure out what in heck is going to happen next.

These characters are relatable, likeable (for the most part) and believable. Ms Anders attention to detail is obvious from page one. She isn’t afraid to tackle difficult topics and address them in a manner that works with the time period.

After reading her first novel in the Devilish Debutants series I was hooked and couldn’t wait for the 2nd book to appear, and was not disappointed (as often happens with some series). If you like historical romance, strong characters, unpredictable happenings, and all things resolved by the end of a book you’ll enjoy this book and series. Can’t recommend this enough.
Profile Image for Lisa.
467 reviews13 followers
January 23, 2018
Amazing! In Ms. Anders’ second book her style and skill with twists, turns, surprises and grace in handling delicate situations and issues shines through. I adore her willingness not to let the bad guys get away with their poor/bad behavior. While sometimes a little dark, there are moments of laughter, caring and watching dear friendships grow. I have been privileged to read both books by Ms. Anders and she has become one of my authors to follow closely.

Miss Sophia Babineaux is a trusting and naïve soul with a heart that tries to always see the best in everyone. She is betrothed to Lord Harold. She thinks her life is going to be wonderful. She is unaware of the charade that is being perpetrated with her marriage.

Captain Devlin Brookes, nephew of a duke and no title in his future, has just sold his commission and purchased an estate. He is a no nonsense military man. Devlin’s plans for a quiet life in the country are turned upside down by Sophia and a caged lion.

This story is filled with good intentioned deceptions and concerned loved ones. There are secrets that should have been shared, but work themselves out. The pace of the story had me turning pages and wanting to see what would happen next. Ms. Anders brings a delicate subject into the light and has me cheering for her solution. Granted the solution causes some unforeseen emotions, but Ms. Anders uses those emotions to help the characters grow and their love to become deeper.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

4.5 Stars
Profile Image for Tracy Emro.
1,917 reviews51 followers
January 23, 2018
3.5 stars.

This is an incredibly difficult review to write, I liked the idea of the story, but it is not a light, easy read and the HEA is bittersweet and tainted with incredible heartbreak. I also feel obligated to mention that this book has several "triggers" that might be upsetting to some readers, such as homosexuality, child molestation, rape and adultery.

Devlin Brooks and Sophia Babineaux meet when Dev saves her. Sophia is trapped under an overturned circus wagon - complete with a lion! Dev organizes men to move the wagon and climbs down to Sophia. He calms her and claims a kiss. He is immediately smitten with her and asks to call on her. Sophia is equally taken by him, but replies that her fiancée would most likely object to him calling on her. Sophia introduces Dev to her friend Rhoda and is annoyed when they flirt. But when Dev cuddles her dog, she knows her heart is lost to him.

Dev leaves Sophia and goes to visit his family. He is shocked to learn his cousin Harold is engaged to be married - he knows that Harold is not attracted to women and is in a relationship with his longtime lover and valet. He agrees to join the family at the theater and then takes his leave. He visits the park the next day, hoping to find Sophia, even knowing she is promised to another, he tells himself to think of her as a friend, but he knows in his heart that what he feels for her is much more than friendship. They talk and a bond forms, he asks about her betrothed and she is vague. They seem to be getting along fine, until Sophia sees her stepbrother Dudley. Not wanting him to tell her parents, she rushes home and tells her mother she is having second thoughts about marrying Harold. This is when she learns the truth - Harold's family has paid hers to ensure they marry. Sophia cannot back out of the marriage without ruining her family.

Things become more complicated when they attend the theater. Sophia finds out that Dev is Harold's cousin and Dudley attempts to make trouble. Thankfully, Rhoda has attended with them and steps in. Harold seems agitated and tells Sophia they are moving up the wedding. Sophia is feeling desperate and when they return home, her stepfather tells her that she already signed the license and cannot back out - basically she is already married.

Dev talks to Harold and learns that he tricked Sophia, she doesn't know the real reason he needs to marry her, he feels badly about it, but says it is too late, the license is signed.

Dev sends Sophia a message via Rhoda and asks her to meet him. When they meet, he tells her that Harold doesn't want to marry her and that they are forming a plan to end the marriage. Sophia blurts out that she loves Dev, he is touched by her admission and asks her to trust him.

Sophia tries to speak to Harold, but the opportunity doesn't arise until the night before the wedding. She asks him if it is true that he is in love with another and he nods, but they are interrupted before she can question him further. She dances with Dev and again he tells her to trust him.

The wedding takes place and on her wedding night, Sophia learns the truth about Harold. She returns to her room and tries to take in what she has witnessed, confused and restless, she decides to sneak down to the kitchen for something to eat. She ends up trapped and needs to be rescued again. Dev finds her and once he frees her, takes her to her room. He brings her something to eat and they talk. She tells him that knows about Harold and Dev tells her that they have a plan. She thinks he means annulment and begins to cry, she tells him that it won't work because she is not a virgin - she was raped by Dudley. Dev calms her and tells her that the plan is not annulment. Harold will fake his own death and go into hiding with his lover. Then they can marry. Dev then repeats the marriage vows to Sophia and they make love.

The next day, Harold and Sophia leave for the family's country estate. They talk and over the course of a few days, they form a true friendship. Sophia is worried about the plan and tells Harold that they can find another way - but Harold is firm in his resolve to carry through with the plan.

They carry out the plan and then are overcome with guilt for the pain it causes the family. Dev leaves the estate and promises Sophia that they will be together, they just need to let some time pass. But when tragedy strikes again, can their love be enough to overcome the guilt they feel?

I like this story, but I did have some issues - One there is adultery, I don't care that they didn't want to marry, I don't care that they didn't consummate it - they took vows, they are married and they sleep with other people - that is adultery. Two, the whole marriage license angle is questionable and frankly, unbelievable, but I can chalk that up to creative license by the author for the sake of the story. This was an incredibly emotional story and the cost for their HEA is extremely high and frankly, I was not satisfied with how it played out. I did believe that Dev and Sophia were in love, but I don't know if I believe their love was worth the pain it caused so many others. I would recommend this book, but be warned, it is not an easy read. It is well written and flows nicely, but it is an emotional rollercoaster and you might want to have some tissues at the ready.

*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by the author*
Profile Image for Lesanamar.
29 reviews4 followers
January 12, 2018
I must admit that I'm usually a little disappointed by the second book of a series. BUT NOT THIS ONE! Such a great book! Great characters and twists I've never come across in any other Regency Romance. I love that the characters are multi-dimensional... Not all Good, or all bad. I like that this author makes me think about what I might do in similar circumstances... Read this book in one long sitting... Now all I can do is wait for the next one...

Disclosure: I was given an Advanced Readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Tracy.
684 reviews22 followers
January 19, 2018
Hell in a Hand Basket is a fun, unique historical tale. It is a standalone that is part of the Devilish Debutantes Series. This was my introduction to the series, and I had no issues jumping right in. Paced quickly, the story really gets under your skin.

An intriguing plot with developed characters, we immediately fall in love with Sophia. Th excitement starts in chapter one, and continues throughout the story. I couldn’t put it down and was dying to find out the resolution. I was gasping in shock and even teared up. Hell in a Hand Basket is different from your average historical read, and I’m looking forward to reading the first book and anymore that come.

*Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads”

1,561 reviews4 followers
January 10, 2018
She better be working on a new book! I think it should be required reading for people to understand different kinds of love.She makes it so beautiful! I didn't want to stop reading this book I loved it that much , but it took me a couple days. it was funny in a way very hot, you would be so happy if you got this book hopefully you read the other one, not that you have to.I can't wait for the next one ! Thank you for being an author. You are so talented!
Profile Image for Paula Shene.
Author 35 books31 followers
January 14, 2018
My initial reaction was WOWOWOWOWOWOWOWOWOW!

From the author of Hell Hath No Fury... I was expecting a good read but one that might not be as 'good' as her debut book. Well, no fear, this author is going on as she started.

Hell In A Hand Basket also draws you in quickly and firmly to the characters, including the foils, the friends, the ones not as central to the plot because each one has a role to play and is a fleshed out person in their own right.

There is a scene that left my emotions raw and my eyes leaking. An author that can evoke tears of joy or sorrow has done a job few even try to attempt.

Now, I understand from covert rumblings there are more stories already in progress and while I may reserve judgment until those too are read, my fear that they will be less than Anders' debut is no longer a worry.

This writer seems to have fallen into her genre and is leading her readers on one merry romp after another.
Profile Image for Gwessie Tee.
452 reviews14 followers
January 22, 2018
Naughtiness 3 *

Absolutely love this series and most definitely adore this book very much. Lady Anders has indeed out done herself and I highly recommend it but also recommend book one first as they do link though could be read as stand alones.

As always I will not give spoilers, however I will say this awesome book has most definitely everything, love, intrigue, villans, heroes, heroines and adventure aswell as an adorable little mischief maker in the most innocent way. I defy anyone to not adore this book and series as much as I do.

Thank you dear lady for writing it and the honour of reading it. 😍
Profile Image for 🦉Maggie Whitworth.
3,021 reviews99 followers
November 26, 2019
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
This is a wonderful book , a perfect accompaniment to the first Hell Hath No Fury .
Annabelle has a gift with words , her complex plots leave you spinning in a very good way ,
A addictive read that leaves you begging for more and dreading the end of the book .
“I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
Profile Image for Debbie.
293 reviews
January 11, 2018
In full disclosure I received an ARC for a truthful and honest review. The opinions and views in this review are mine and mine alone.

Oh My Gosh! This is one of the best books I have read. Annabelle does not disappoint with any of her writing. I read her first book and was so impressed but she has out done herself with this one. All of the characters work so well together to tell this story of love. I fell in love with all of them and was rooting for everyone to have their hearts desire.
She handled a very tricky subject in this book so tastefully well it brought tears to my eyes. This is a book that will make you rush to find out how it ends then kick yourself because you miss everyone when it does. This is a must read!!
I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes historical romance.
Profile Image for Patricia King.
605 reviews15 followers
January 26, 2018
What a ride this storyline takes the reader on! Wow! Love, trust, secrets, betrayal and adventure!!!

This, the second novel, in Ms. Anders Devilish Debutantes series was simply engrossing. I didn't want to put the book down. It dealt with one issue after another for the heroine, Sophie Babineaux. What strength this amazing young woman demonstrated.

The opening scene occurred with a bang and somewhat tense. But oh, did Sophie get the much needed help from one handsome, muscled and strong, Captain Delvin Brookes. Hummmm.... will there be more of these two in this novel?

There are many dynamics to this story-line. The trust and strong friendships between Sophia and Rhoda, the arranged marriage for Sophie and Lord Harold Brookes of Prescott; (but whoops, Sophie doesn't realize this at first), the secret she carries with her and oh those secrets to come as the story evolves. Now, Sophie thinks the Lord of Prescott loves her and believes herself to be in love with him. But oh, how the web is spun in this story. Nope, that's enough of a teaser folks. Read this intense, intriguing and delicious story to fine the answers for yourself. Will Sophia learn the truth before she actually walks down the isle to wed Lord Harold? Will be live happily ever after?

I can hardly wait for the next novel in this series. Ms. Anders has certainly gotten off to a great start with her first two novels in this series. She maintains true to the Regency era with her character development and their mannerisms, as well as, the correct use of period language and happenstance. This was such an enjoyable, yet at times, emotional, easy, flowing read.

I was afforded an advanced reader copy of this novel by Ms. Anders in exchange for my voluntary honest review.
Profile Image for Louise.
435 reviews16 followers
February 2, 2018
Another fab regency romance from Annabelle. When I first read Hell Hath No Fury, (the first book in this series) it wasn't a book I'd normally read. I haven't read many historical/regency romances before, so I was admittedly very sceptical. However, after reading and loving Hell Hath No Fury, I sort of came around to the idea of this genre. When I saw that Hell in a Hand Basket had been released, I knew I had to read it.

These books to me are like little satires. They're hidden gems. They have the comedy, the love, the sex, the heartache but they feel like a more serious version of Black Adder (a well known British satire comedy.) And that's a fabulous thing because that was a brilliant show.
In Hell in a Hand Basket, the characters come alive. The author has depicted the personalities, the clothing, the mannerisms down to a tee, so you can clearly get a HD visual as you're reading. I loved the whole vibe the book left me in.

The storyline itself is touching. The heroine Sophia has a lot of responsibility on her shoulders without even being aware of it in the beginning. The hero Devlin, has the charm, the wit and the wherewithal to provide the love for our heroine, even if it's unavailable at first.

I can't wait to see what the author has in store for us next. If the first book converted me to regency romance, this has just confirmed my steadfast love of it.
Profile Image for Space Cowgirl.
3,991 reviews130 followers
June 3, 2019
Cousin Dev🐺🍆⛲🔪🔫 Gets The Girl

Captain Devlin Brookes🐺🍆⛲🔪🔫 is a man who has just retired from the service and wants to settle down in the country.
He is cousin to Lord Harold, but doesn't spend much time at Harolds father's estate. He doesn't know Harold is betrothed to Sophia💃💋 in an arranged marriage👰 deal. Her family needs money and Harold's father is giving them an infusion💰 before the knot is even tied! Is There some reason why Harold needs a wife👰 that desperately?

Dev🐺🍆⛲ saves Sophia's life when a wagon tips over and traps her against a building. He hadn't planned on marriage👰 right away but Sophia💃💋 intrigues him and he makes all sorts of excuses to see her and meet her in various places around London.

Sophia💃💋 tells him she is betrothed, but Dev🐺🍆⛲ doesn't care! He is going to make her choose...

The author keeps the two men involved in the triangle unknown to each other for much of the book. Sophia💃💋 doesn't even know that Harold and Dev🐺🍆⛲ are cousins!
This is a well written and interesting story which plays largely on the political and social correctness of high society at that time. Society keeps Sophia💃💋 from being able to marry for love, and It keeps her from talking honestly with Devlin🐺🍆⛲.
Dev🐺🍆⛲ knows what he wants, but does Sophia💃💋?

This is the first book I have read by this author and I loved it!
Profile Image for Lori D.
3,880 reviews112 followers
January 23, 2018
I have been anticipating this story since I read the first in this series, Hell Hath No Fury. Thinking there was no way it could be as great as that one, boy was I wrong!! When your first scene involves our heroine Sophia, her small dog Peaches and a Lion in a cage falling over and trapping her, what more can you ask for? A hero to rescue you of course by the name of Captain Devlin Brookes!! That was really a strange way to meet but it was destiny. There was an immediate attraction when he kissed her.. yes he did! The descriptions and visuals that the author gives you is priceless because I could see it happening! Devlin and Sophia manage to meet again several times and Sophia decides to stop her wedding due to the feelings they develop for each other. This is the story of an arranged marriage with Sophia feeling her betrothed, Lord Harold loved her and she had great affection for him until she met Devlin and realized how it could be. Funny how things play out though and in the end, Sophia was basically being forced into marriage due to money. In a twist that can only happen when meant to be, Sophia learns that Devlin is actually Harold's cousin and nephew of the Duke, Harold's father. There are many surprises, secrets revealed and unexpected outcomes that you will be wondering what can happen next! It really does not stop and the outcome is anybody's guess. But I encourage you to read this exciting story because when you turn the last page, you will have a smile on your face. Cannot wait until the rest of the series!!!
Profile Image for Behind Closed Doors Book Review.
1,243 reviews160 followers
January 30, 2018
Amount of sex 1 / 5
How explicit 1 / 5
Story 5 / 5
Overall: 5 / 5

Review: Another 5 star story by Annabelle Anders! I loved Hell in a Handbasket! This time the focus is on Sophia, a young innocent girl about to marry into a ducal family. She is happy with her pending nuptials until her puppy, Peaches, decides to set off a course of events that change Sophia's delight at marrying Harold (second son of a duke) to remorse at meeting the right man too late. Dev is a retired military captain not ready to settle down until he meets and kisses (gasp) Sophia while in a precarious situation. It all changes for him as he falls for the delightful Sophia, despite her being engaged to another man.

What makes it a 5 star? It's not because there is a lot of spicy action (there is some but not a lot), rather it is the wonderful characters and the exciting story! Without giving any spoilers, Hell in a Handbasket is a quick-paced historical romance with a unique plot and well-defined characters. It is fun with a bit of a conscious. The main characters are interesting and far from cookie cutter romance heroes and heroines that just find themselves in a situation that they have to work themselves out of. The have to make life or death decisions that impact everyone around them. I loved the twist and turns in the story that creates obstacles for our couple.

While the book is part of a series, it can be definitely read as a standalone. Characters of the first book are mentioned as is their outcome, but there are no details to detract from reading the books out-of-order. I am guessing the next book will be about Rhoda (Sophia's friend) as she is highlighted in this story, but her outcome was left unresolved.

i can't really say enough about how much I love this book. I have fallen in love with Ms. Anders' world and look forward to the next story!
Profile Image for Liberty.
387 reviews
January 16, 2018
Annabelle Anders weaves another sinfully delightful tale of love, betrayal, loss, new beginnings, friendship and family. Though some of the content was not in line with my taste and it was spicier than I normally read, Miss Sophia Babineaux' tale is an absorbing story that will keep you riveted until the very end!
Profile Image for Saynab.
193 reviews
January 23, 2018
What can I say I've been waiting for this book since I read Hello hath no fury and I loved it.
It was entertaining and kept you guessing on what happens next.Absolutely love this series and most definitely adore this book very much. This author has indeed out done herself
227 reviews2 followers
July 8, 2018
Excellent!

I really liked Dev and Sophia’s story. It really had some interesting twists and turns to it! Very original. I truly enjoyed this book.
724 reviews2 followers
December 17, 2018
Basket

I loved this story, I recommend everyone to read this book, I look forward to reading more of her books. Kattie
Profile Image for Pontiki.
2,215 reviews8 followers
September 10, 2018
I enjoyed this book, got a bit sidetracked in the middle, when the plot wavered, but then came back strongly.

I love Sophia’s ability to be strong for her mother, compassionate to Harold, and openly loving to Dev. He was honourable, consistently reassuring, and solid for his family and his secret love, Sophia.

I love the twists in the story, and the modern issue of lack of acceptance of homosexuality plays true, for then and now. It adds poignancy and relevance to a sweet romance.

Really well done.

KU
Profile Image for Kathy Stephenson.
25 reviews2 followers
January 24, 2018
Love this book

I fell in love with Dev and Sophia love Annabelle Anders books. Hope for more books about the Devilish Debutantes
Profile Image for Kiley.
1,625 reviews20 followers
May 19, 2021
Before I begin my review let me just say...I am so very glad I wasn't born during the time when a man was legally believed to OWN his wife and children (daughters) to the point that the men controlled the women's very existence and every move they made!
Oh, and one more thing. About Annabelle Anders. She does not always write soft, easy-to-read, simple love stories. She also tends to write about things that touch the heart, things that scour the mind, and torments the emotions that every real human has ever felt or ever will feel...and that's a good thing. She writes about the hard things in life that many people tend to overlook or just plain ignore. The stories she writes give each and every reader pause for thought on the contents of her books and make them actually think about the issues she includes every time.
Knowing all of that to be true, this was another book destined to rip open the heart, awaken the mind, and touch the very soul of the reader...and it did. It was a remarkably well-thought-out plot, story, and characters. It was definitely a heart-rending love story.
With all of that said, this was a rough love story. I won't go into too great a detail as I don't want to give anything away. However, I will say there was intrigue, passion, chemistry, drama, romance, heartache, angst, love, as well as humor. This book was an emotional roller coaster...but in a good way. It kept the reader intrigued from beginning to end and had so many twists and turns that it could easily be called a nail-biter.
Unlike its predecessor, this book did, indeed, earn the right to be considered for the Keeper for the Shelves award...and it earned it in the end. There were still some issues that many will argue about, though. Yes, there were some points that weren't cut and dried honorable, but with all things considered...when you think about the time period in which this story took place...then one must think a bit about their restrictive ideals.
2,094 reviews21 followers
June 23, 2018
I thoroughly the first book in this series and this was no exception. It had quite an unusual storyline and it did have me wondering how it would be resolved. I liked the character of Sophia, she had such a caring nature but had an inner strength when needed. Dev was all you could ask for, strong, dependable, resourceful with a wicked side as well. It did make me think about how some suffered because of the laws at that time. This was an engrossing story and I look forward to the next in the series.
Profile Image for Carlene Michalk.
71 reviews3 followers
January 25, 2018
The author has done it again and weaved a wonderful story

I had an ARC book and I’m leaving an honest review!This is the second book of the series by this author. It can stand alone, but it is much more fun to read the first book which was also her debut novel. Which is also very well-done and I highly recommend!

This book it definitely got me with the feels. It made me shed a couple tears and squealed with joy. I did not want to put it down so many times but alas I had to work. But I did not fail to keep on reading it after. Another fun fact is some occurring characters from the last book also mentioned in this novel.

Dev and Sophia, I really did love their chemistry. Their passion ignited when he Trying to save her from a tiger in a cage from a falling wagon! Sophia is supposed to be Intended to another. But she’s having doubts on her intended. Instead she is growing feelings for the man who saved her,and she can I get him out of her head.

But it turns out that she is intended to The man who saved her life‘s cousin. Dev is planning on how he and Sophia can be together. But, there is a problem. Sophie is trapped in this marriage with no way out otherwise her family will have to pay back all the money from her intended‘s family!

Just watching all of the characters bond. You would think the intended would be a cold dark person but he’s not. I ended up loving him a lot in the book but, he has secrets of his own and he’s very important for the relationship between Dev and Sophia.

This book has really touched my heart. The same as the first in the series. If you haven’t read the first book of this series called ‘Hell Hath No Fury’ I suggest reading that one. It was really good and it was full of laughs but this story is full of feels! And I absolutely adore the authors writing style as well!

I will be waiting for anything that the author cooks up in the future!

Profile Image for Polly Barreto.
653 reviews7 followers
January 27, 2018
I fell in love with the Regency Romance genre after reading Hell Hath no Fury (Devilish Debutantes #1) and Ms. Anders has kept that love going for me! I read this book in one long sitting, but I had to find out what happened!

Sophia Babineaux is betrothed to Lord Harold Brooks. She believes that he loves her, but rarely shows her much affection other than a light kiss to her gloved hand, and of course, his proffered elbow when the occasion prompts him.

Both are hiding secrets from one another, their thoughts and actions are hidden behind closed doors. Enter one devilishly handsome Captain Devlin Brooks. Can he be the answer they are both hoping for? Can he help uncover said secrets without more harm and injury to other persons?

Captain Brooks’ military skills are of use when he and Lord Harold devise a plan in which all parties would come out unharmed – or do they? Some complications arise and some are put to rest. Come along and take a stroll with the rest of characters to find out what happens.

I was left with two questions floating through my mind
1. Did Sohpia have that baby? Gender?
2. What really did happen to Dudley Scofield? Maybe an accident or did Rhoda help in this matter?
Perhaps these questions will be answered in the next book? I cannot wait to find out!
Profile Image for Sassy Smut Lover.
424 reviews22 followers
January 22, 2018
*I received a copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.

OMG, the emotional rollercoaster and feels from this book! It wins the award for the unique and different first meeting that will suck you and have you wondering what will happen next. I wanted to hate Lord Harald and his family, but just couldn't. They really had the best intentions especially the Duchess. There are many twists that will make you cry, cheer and be shocked throughout the story. I had my fingers crossed about the stepbrother and was very pleased, but shocked in the end. I held my breath so many times when it came to the plan and worried about how it would play out. The ending was perfect, but I didn't want it to end!

Sophia just wants to be safe and happy and feels that will happen with her fiance until she meets Devlin. She was stronger than she looked and could take anything thrown at her. I loved that she found her voice and started to take control of her life more and more. She always saw the good and never judged.

Devlin never thought he would find the love the way he did. He had so many things thrown at him and he kept going. I loved that looked for answers and saw her as the sweet girl she was. I was afraid he would give up, but he never did. I loved that he clearly loved his family.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.