A review by talknerdybookblog
Devil in Spring by Lisa Kleypas

emotional hopeful lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.25

No strong representations of diverse characters or minority identities.

I find my enjoyment of Devil in Spring is highly dependent on my mood: if I’m feeling particularly picky, the Hero, Gabriel’s know-it-all attitude severely detracts from my enjoyment of the novel. However, other times I find Gabriel charming. So, it really does depend. However, even when Gabriel annoys, Devil in Spring is so well written and has such a great Heroine with Pandora, that the book is never below a 4-star read.

I loved how the main hurdle to Pandora and Gabriel’s nuptials is Pandora’s awareness of the complete loss of legal rights she has once signing her marriage contract/license. I also liked the acknowledgement that it’s every bit as feminist to want to have a partner and share your life with them. Feminism is always about having the choice and equal opportunity as het men.

The romance of Devil in Spring is cute and sweeping and it’s made even better by a subtle suspense plot. I really enjoyed how that part of the story allowed for a further exploration of Gabriel and Pandora—especially the parts where we can break promises out of good intent but, as we all slowly learn, the impact is far more important than intentions.

Devil in Spring is a great romance but I would’ve liked for the OW drama to be addressed more decisively at the end (see Safety Rating for details). Gabriel’s commitment and love of Pandora is never in question but I didn’t think there was closure concerning the OW’s behaviour and Gabriel’s reaction to it (his anger which distracted him from Pandora). Also, while there is an epilogue, there’s no remark on kids or anything like that—I know some romance readers define that inclusion as a *true* HEA. However, I really enjoyed the epilogue as it showed Pandora accomplishing one of her dreams... with Gabriel’s unwavering support.

As a side note, you can read: Gabriel’s parent’s story here: [b:The Devil in Winter|7815842|Devil in Winter, The|Lisa Kleypas|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1347637108l/7815842._SY75_.jpg|1823830].

The rest of the series is comprised of Pandora's family members, hence the series title, The Ravenels.

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Safety Rating: Safe with Exception

• No cheating 
• No OM drama
• Does have OW drama
— The Hero has a mistress who he breaks up with after marrying the Heroine. However, the OW causes issues later in the story by attempting to hurt and humiliate the Heroine in public. 
• Does have the Heroine pushing the Hero away
• No separation


Possible Triggers: Yes

• Violence 
• Attempted murder
• Physical abuse


Ending: 
HEA