The Devil in the Saddle

Starred review from September 9, 2019
Friends get more than just benefits in London’s second Princes of Texas contemporary (after The Charmer in Chaps), which tackles dynamics of class, wealth, and power while developing a gripping friends-to-lovers romance. The Prince family, owners of the Three Rivers Ranch in Texas, have fallen on hardish times after the death of patriarch Charlie, who gambled away much of their money, and they can barely afford to employ majordomo Martin Fontana. Hallie Prince, Charlie’s daughter, still lives like she’s rich, but that hasn’t stopped her from befriending Rafe Fontana, Martin’s oldest son. Rafe has been “quietly, privately, and desperately” in love with Hallie all his life, but he fears that acting inappropriately could cost his father his job. When Hallie catches her fiancé cheating, she turns to Rafe for support, and, as usual, he’s there for her. But when chemistry develops between them and she challenges him to admit how he feels, he holds back, knowing they can’t escape the difficulties that their professional relationship presents to their personal entanglement. London beautifully captures the essence of the couple’s friendship and the depth of their emotions, making the lovemaking that much more intense. Hallie’s grandma, Dolly, is just as charming and funny as ever, and the Prince family’s financial problems bring more comic relief than pathos. Readers will have a grand ol’ time revisiting Three Rivers.

Hallie Prince's drunken wailings kick-start this Texas ranch romance, narrated by Tieran Wilder. Rafe Fontana, son of the Princes' ranch manager, saves Hallie from a DUI and falls more deeply in love with her than ever. As Hallie recovers from her ex-fianc�'s cheating, she finally realizes how lucky she's been to have Rafe as a lifelong friend. Hallie and Rafe both sport fun Southern twangs, which are distinctive without being overdone. Hallie's despair sometimes borders on whiny, which seems realistic given her privileged upbringing. Wilder gives Rafe a deep, genuine voice with a guarded edge reflecting his worry about overstepping the bounds of friendship. Listeners will soon realize Hallie and Rafe are made for each other and enjoy their bumpy road to a loving relationship. C.A. � AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine