In Devil’s Deal (Devil’s Duet #1) by Aleatha Romig, Everett “Rett” Ramses is the new reigning king of New
Orleans. A feat that took time, sweat, and even some blood. Coming from one of the most powerful families in NOLA gave him a small advantage over his rivals, but it’s when Rett realizes an heir from one of the city’s other well-known crime families has been found that his plans come into focus. Emma O’Brien has no idea what she’s in for when Rett offers her a deal. And with all of the New Orleans underground watching and waiting to see what happens, Rett will need to forge a union with Emma that is unbreakable. One that will withstand attacks against them as well as the lore, secrets, and lies regarding her previously unknown family history.
“I’m not a good man. You may be an angel, but I’m the devil. Never forget that.”
Devil’s Deal was the first dark and erotic book in Aleatha Romig’s newest duet. Set in the seedier side of New Orleans, with a crime boss for a hero and a heroine whose entire world had recently crumbled, there was danger–and chemistry–aplenty right from page one.
“Submission given is sweeter than submission taken.”
Trigger warning: View Spoiler »
I should first mention that there is currently a free short story–Fate’s Demand–on most platforms that sets this book up nicely, so it is definitely worth a read. It’s basically the entire first scene when Rett and Emma met. And it really showed the dynamic between them as well as the instant attraction the couple had. There was a power struggle right from the start where Rett was used to calling the shots and Emma was used to being independent, so that was interesting to watch play out in that initial meeting.
I was honestly a bit put off by something Rett did in Fate’s Demand, something that comes up again during Devil’s Duet, which kept me from giving this a higher rating. It might just be me, but Rett crossed a line with Emma that hit me wrong. He actually did redeem himself to a certain degree in this full-length novel–but then again, Rett’s still not a “good” guy, being the king of New Orleans, including its underworld.
The location and its rich culture and history played a definite part in Emma and Rett’s story, which I loved. We got to see it through Emma’s somewhat naive eyes where she’d never been there before. And the secondary cast was great. Rett’s team, as well as those loyal to his family, were all unique and brought something important to the story. I liked getting to see how badass Rett interacted with some of the house staff who had been around since he was born–it added some lighthearted moments to a pretty intense book.
A decadent romantic suspense with thrilling secrets, dirty dealings, and an intriguing dominant/submissive struggle between the lead characters, Devil’s Duet was certainly a page-turner.
QOTD: New Orleans played a big part in Devil’s Duet, and it’s a setting that I’ve enjoyed in many books. Do certain cities or countries spark your interest in a novel? Or does the location not matter as long as the story itself holds your attention?
Book Info:
Publication: Published May 18, 2021 | by Romig Works LLC | Devil’s Duet #1
I’m Everett “Rett” Ramses.
New Orleans is my world, my realm, and my domain.
After what I’ve done, some people say I’m the devil.
I say I’m a man who knows what he wants, and nothing stops me from getting what I desire.
I took New Orleans, and now I want Emma O’Brien.
As the daughter of my father’s rival and sworn enemy, her fate is to be my wife.
Emma is in my world now.
It’s time she makes a deal with the devil.
Have you been Aleatha’d?
Enter the dangerous and mysterious world of New Orleans in this all new full-length romantic suspense novel, DEVIL’S DEAL. For a sneak peek into their first meeting with no spoilers, check out the enticing prequel, “Fate’s Demand” available everywhere.
Rett and Emma’s intriguing story begins with DEVIL’S DEAL, book one of the Devil Series Duet, and concludes with ANGEL’S PROMISE. Don’t miss a word of this new and exciting duet.
