As The Devil Dares is the third book in Anna Harrington’s Capturing the Carlisles Regency-era series of historical romance novels. I was excited about the opportunity to read/review this book because I enjoyed the other two books in this series.

Robert Carlisle is the last of the three wild Carlisle brothers. He doesn’t have any plans to marry, but that all changes when he meets Mariah Winslow. Mariah’s father is a prosperous shipping merchant, and he always hoped that his two daughters would have the opportunity to mingle with Proper Society. As the son of a duke, Robert can provide them with introductions- but what he really wants is the opportunity to become a partner in Winslow’s business. This comes as a surprise to Miranda who always assumed that she would be a partner in her father’s business one day, and she resents this interloper, even if he is devilishly handsome!

As The Devil Dares is a cute example of the enemies to lovers trope; there is certainly a great deal of enmity between our hero and heroine. Miranda might have cultivated a reputation for herself, and earned the nickname “The Hellion” for her antics, but she is well aware of her parents’ humble beginnings and she serves as patron to an orphanage for children from shipping families.

This is a sweet story, and Robert and Miranda have good chemistry, but much of the conflict could have been avoided if the characters sat down and had conversations with each other… although it was very funny when Robert was jealous of Miranda’s male friend.

I would recommend As The Devil Dares. This book functions fairly well as a standalone, so readers don’t have to read the other two books in the series before reading this one. It’s nice to see a strong-willed heroine like Miranda who knows what she wants, and isn’t afraid to ask for it. Likewise, Robert is used to getting his way, and he finds himself flummoxed by Miranda. This was a fun and entertaining read, and I’m looking forward to seeing what is next for Harrington! .

 

 

 

 

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own