Demon’s Bride

Archer’s second 18th-century paranormal (after Devil’s Kiss) does not disappoint, striking an impressive balance among plot, character development, and sizzling sensuality. Leopold Bailey is as common as dirt and driven to rub everyone’s noses in it. Already deep in a pact with the Devil, whose gift of precognition makes Leo infallible in business, Leo decides to advance himself socially and open up new marks to exploit. Hence his whirlwind marriage to the Honorable Anne Hartfield, penniless daughter of a baron, whose intelligence and strength take Leo far out of his reckoning for the first time in years. Will his infatuation prove enough motivation to reform his wicked ways? There are no surprises in the plot, but Archer is confident enough not to need them—the tendrils and thorns of the blossoming relationship between Leo and Anne are engrossing enough. Agent: Kevan Lyon, Marsal Lyon Literary Agency. (May)