MADreads

Mad, bad and dangerous

August 11th, 2008 Jane J. - Central Library

I was sure I’d read all of Georgette Heyer’s books.  But a recent discussion of her best books (according to readers) made me realize I was wrong.  Somehow, I’d missed The Devil’s Cub.  How I overlooked this sort-of sequel to one of my favorites, These Old Shades, I don’t know.  At this point, I don’t care, ’cause how cool is it that I got to read a new Heyer?

The Devil’s Cub is Dominic Alastair, Marquis of Vidal and the son of the Duke of Avon.  Vidal is mad, bad and dangerous to know (to borrow Lady Caroline’s description of another troubled figure).  His most recent loss of temper has resulted in banishment to France.  And while Vidal is willing to heed his father’s wishes, he decides to do so in his own way. 

His way is to entice Sophia Challoner into running away with him.  Sophia is a silly, scheming young woman who is sure that running off to France with Vidal will lead to marriage.  Sophia’s sister Mary is just as sure that the the escapade will lead to Sophia’s social ruin.  To save her, Mary decides to take her place in hopes of angering the Marquis enough so that he will never see Sophia again.

Vidal is angry, so angry that he kidnaps Mary as revenge.  When he cools down enough (after Mary shoots him!) to see who Mary truly is, Dominic realizes there is only one course of action left.  Marriage.  Mary resists, Dominic persists, members of both their families enter the fray, and chaos ensues.

The Devil’s Cub is Heyer at her best.  Sharp dialogue, incredible characterization, and loads of humor round out a sparkling and fast-paced romance.  And getting to revisit those old Heyer feelings made me smile for hours.

Entry Filed under: Recreational Fiction, Romance