Review: The Devil’s Waltz by Anne Stuart

Official Blurb: 

Christian Montcalm was a practical man, if a destitute scoundrel, but his plan to bed and wed the delectable Miss Hetty Chipple would take care of that sticky wicket. However, there was a most intriguing obstacle to his success.

Annelise Kempton desired nothing more than to come between this despicable rogue and the fortune (and virtue) of her young charge. Certainly, Annelise understood the desperation that comes from hard times, but Montcalm would fail—she would personally see to it. All that stands in her way is a man whose rakish charm could tempt a saint to sin, or consign a confirmed spinster to sleepless nights of longing…to give the devil his due.

My Thoughts: 

It’s a breath of fresh air when both hero and heroine are upfront at the very beginning of what rolls they play in this world to everyone they meet. Christian Montcalm is rake and fortune hunter. He makes it very well known that he is looking for a fortune in exchange for title he will inherit. The honorable Anneleise Kempton is 29 year old penniless spinster with impeccable manners that has no prospects of marriage. Her job is to help guide and chaperone heiress Miss Hetty Chipple through society and help secure the best possible match.

From the start Christian and Anneleise are enemies. Christian who has affectionately given Anneleise the nickname “dragon” wants her charge Hetty’s money. The most effective way for him to get it is to compromise the young girl and force a marriage. Hetty a very naive young lady that likes the idea of marrying Christian because he is soooo pretty. Christian and Anneleise begin a dance of keeping the young charge away from the rake. However in this middle of this dance feelings come to the surface and danger looms over them where action is required. The question that runs through your mind while reading this book is, is money really that important when love is on the line?

“I hate to tell you, dragon, but that’s an integral part of the whole usiness,” he whispered. “If you’re afraid to touch me then we’re not going to get very far.”She lifted her head to look at him. “I thought I could lie back and let you ravish me,” she said with complete honesty.He shook his head, the smile hovering around his lips, his eyes intent. “This is a cooperative effort, my love. You have to do your part.” ― Anne Stuart, The Devil’s Waltz

I enjoyed this story by Anne Stuart. Her books for me tend to be really dark and yes this while this book is dark there is a lot of funny moments in it. I really liked the banter between all the characters. And of course, how can you not love the endearment “dragon” for a spinster heroine!? There is action in this book that comes out of no where which is a fun element for a regency. It was a good read and change of pace from Anne Stuart’s really dark stories.

Purchase The Devil’s Waltz by Anne Stuart on Amazon or B&N.

-Romance Reader Girl