Between the Devil and the Duke

By: Kelly Bowen

Narrated by: Ashford McNab

A card counter and a rumored assassin gamble on working together in this thrilling romance from award-winning author Kelly Bowen.

He should have thrown her out. But when club owner Alexander Lavoie catches a mysterious blonde counting cards at his vingt-et-un table, he's more intrigued than angry. He has to see more of this beauty—in his club, in his office, in his bed. But first he'll have to devise a proposition she can't turn down.

Gossip said he was an assassin. Common sense told her to stay away. But Angelique Archer was desperate, and Lavoie's club offered a surefire way to make quick money—until she got caught. Instead of throwing her out though, the devil offers her a deal: come work for him. Refusing him means facing starvation, but with a man so sinfully handsome and fiercely protective, keeping things professional might prove impossible ...

2018 RITA award-winning author!

"Wonderful! A charming, clever, and engaging storyteller not to be missed." —Sarah MacLean, New York Times bestselling author

Critic reviews

"Wonderful! A charming, clever, and engaging storyteller not to be missed."—Sarah MacLean, New York Times bestselling author

"Where have you been all my life, Kelly Bowen? If Julia Quinn, Sarah MacLean, and Lisa Kleypas were to extract their writing DNA, mix it in a blender, and have a love child, Kelly Bowen would be it."—HeroesandHeartbreakers.com

"Bowen's irresistible Regency is like the most popular debutante at the ball: pretty, witty, mysterious, and full of coquettish allure. From the first line to the happy dénouement, Bowen builds enough romantic heat to melt midwinter snow... Good reading is assured as Bowen weaves wonderful romantic fiction."—Publishers Weekly (starred review) on Duke of My Heart

"4 1/2 Stars! Top Pick! Bowen begins her Season for Scandal series with a nonstop murder-mystery that sizzles with sexual tension. This suspenseful tale unfolds quickly, and readers will be captivated by the well-drawn characters who move Bowen's inventive plot forward. Readers will savor this unconventional romance."—RT Book Reviews on Duke of My Heart

"This story has it all: romance, suspense, wit, and Bowen's trademark smart and slightly quirky characters. Bowen's thrilling plot, spot-on pacing, and savvy characterization will delight her current fans and seduce new ones."—Publishers Weekly (starred review) on You're the Earl That I Want

"Kelly Bowen is a fresh new voice with a shining future!"—Teresa Medeiros, New York Times bestselling author

"Fans of Julia Quinn and Sarah MacLean will adore Kelly Bowen!"—Lauren Willig, New York Times bestselling author

"With this unforgettable debut, Bowen proves she is a writer to watch. A truly remarkable romance well worth savoring."—Booklist on I've Got My Duke to Keep Me Warm

"In this delightful, poignant debut that sets Bowen on the path to become a beloved author, the innovative plotline and ending are only superseded by the likable, multidimensional characters: a strong-willed heroine and a heart-stealing hero. Get set to relish Bowen's foray into the genre."—RT Book Reviews on I've Got My Duke to Keep Me Warm

"Fans of romance with a touch of suspense will enjoy the work of this new author."—Publishers Weekly on I've Got My Duke to Keep Me Warm

Didn’t see that coming! Love it!

Loved this whole series. Intriguing characters, hot scenes, and a twist I didn’t see coming! Excellent!

Enjoyable finish to series

I enjoyed reading this series, but wasn't quite as happy with the narration.

I really liked that all three stories in this series featured strong, level-headed, capable female characters. The only real drawback was the ridiculousness of every female lead becoming muddled, tongue tied, and totally befuddled because a man looks at, touches, and/or kisses her. Even during the Regency Era, most women weren't that stupid. It's something every female Regency author writes, and it needs to stop. It has become so formulistic that it's beginning to border on being insulting to female intelligence. I would expect such brainless characterization from a male author, but really, ladies, all of you can do much better.

For the most part, I like Ashford McNab's narration, except when she drops into that breathy, can barely hear her whispery voice for different scenes. Then it becomes annoying and a little creepy. I found myself wanting to yell, "omg just speak in a normal voice".

The series is an entertaining read and a good listen, if you can overlook the occasional creep factor in the narration.

Great story and performance

Loved how the characters from the previous books in this series were interwoven into this story. The heroine and hero of the story were great characters. Very interesting. Highly recommend not only this story but the entire series.

What duke?

Enjoyed it. Not sure why the title mentions a Duke? No main character is a Duke.

The best in the series!!!

I enjoyed the first two books, but this was my absolute favorite! I loved the heroine, was already besotted with the hero, and it was great fun to see (almost) all of the usual cast of Chegarre & Associates turn up in the course of the story. Love love love!