If you crave the darkest side of old-school romance, Devil’s Embrace delivers a wild, emotional ride. It’s unapologetically ’80s bodice-ripper - think taboo themes, relentless anti-hero, and a heroine caught between passion and peril. Fans of intense, morally grey stories like early Johanna Lindsey or Kathleen Woodiwiss will find this a daringly dramatic throwback. For readers who want their romance stormy and unforgettable, this book is hard to put down.

Who May Not Like This Book:

Those who are sensitive to graphic depictions of violence, non-consent, and emotional manipulation should absolutely steer clear. Many readers found the book’s treatment of rape and abuse deeply disturbing and outdated, and some were so uncomfortable they couldn’t finish. If you prefer your romance with clear boundaries around consent or want to avoid highly problematic heroes, this one isn’t for you.

An infamously dark, divisive classic of historical romance - riveting for some, offensive for others. Only pick this up if you know you can handle the toughest of taboo topics.

About:

Devil's Embrace by Catherine Coulter is a dark romance novel that delves into gritty and taboo themes, not suitable for sensitive readers. The story revolves around Cassie being kidnapped by Anthony just before her wedding to her fiancee, Edward, leading to a tumultuous journey filled with disturbing scenes including rape and abuse. Despite the controversial and shocking content, the book is praised for its captivating storyline, interesting characters, and the believable love that develops between the hero and heroine by the end.

Characters:

The characters are complex, with Cassie showcasing strength in adversity and Anthony transforming from villain to a more relatable figure by the end.

Writing/Prose:

The prose captures the essence of traditional romance novels of its time, blending shock value with emotional storytelling.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative centers on a kidnapping scenario that unfolds a dark romance, exploring themes of love, trauma, and survival.

Setting:

The setting is varied and historical, enhancing the escapism typical of romance novels from this era.

Pacing:

The pacing experiences fluctuations, particularly as the story progresses; initial engagement can wane but maintains intrigue through its dark themes.

Edward Forsythe Lyndhurst, fifth Viscount Delford, drew a deep breath of sea air and guided his bay mare closer to the rocky cliff. The day was unusually warm for the end of March, and the early after...

Notes:

The book is a dark historical romance set in the early 1980s.

It features themes of kidnapping, rape, and emotional abuse.

Characters include an 18-20 year old heroine named Cassie and an anti-hero named Anthony.

It has been described as a typical 'bodice ripper' with controversial and politically incorrect themes.

The plot includes Cassie's abduction just before her wedding to another man.

Some readers found the story captivating despite its dark subject matter, while others were turned off by the violence.

The writing includes shocking scenes that challenge traditional romance norms.

Many readers warn that it is not suitable for those sensitive to topics like rape and abuse.

Despite its issues, some found the emotional journey satisfying and engaging.

The book explores the complex relationship between the characters, with many mixed feelings about their actions.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include high levels of violence, rape (both by the protagonist and others), emotional abuse, and manipulation.

Has Romance?

Romance plays a significant role throughout the narrative, despite its dark themes.

explicit steam level

From The Publisher:

Lord Anthony Welles kidnaps Cassandra Brougham, takes her away from her English fiance to Italy, and attempts to force her to marry him.

August 1982

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443 pages

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Devil's Embrace

Catherine Coulter

Book 1 in the series:Devil

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