April 6, 2022 - Staff Reviews

Devil in Disguise

By Lisa Kleypas

Release Date: July 27, 2021

Ebook Available from WV Reads!

https://wvreads.overdrive.com/media/5810179

4 Stars - Another lovely regency romance from Kleypas, continuing the long running story of a few families. Merritt's status as a widow won't save her from the possibility of ruin as she meets Keir, a memorable and sweet whiskey distiller from Scotland. Worth a read for anyone but it's a touch better knowing the family tree already.

Merritt's marriage was short lived but turned out to be an important element of the story, beyond just her taking on much of her husband's workload. She was not quite how I would have pictured based on her parents but she does seem to have elements of the two. She's level headed like her dad but her mother's impulsive streak shows up. Merritt's so devoted to Keir, it's sweet. Keir's not the typical cold Kleypas hero. He's definitely got a softer side, especially so for Merritt.

I never read series in order and Kleypas' many intertwining series are no exception. However, I had just devoured books two and three in the Wallflowers that happen to feature Merritt's parents prominently. It was definitely more entertaining with the many points of view that floated around. The big secret revealed about Keir was delicious for Kleypas fans, and no doubt something she was excited to share. This one also mixed up some of the usual plotlines too. Merritt wasn't husband hunting. And yet the sparks flew fast and wild for her and Keir. We didn't have to wait an eternity for them to admit their feelings or anything. Also, the sort of role swap with Merritt helping protect Keir from danger was quite brilliant. Not much more of my favorite and unfavorite things without spoilers. There were aspects dealing with Merritt's first marriage I didn't care for being thrown into the mix. But this was a delightful read with many refreshing aspects, especially for the author's devoted readers.

(NS)