This is the second novel from Kirsten Bohling, an American writer who has written lots of fan fiction before switching over to writing romance adventure books. Her debut novel “We’s Know By Then” was released in 2022, followed by a special edition that included a bonus novella. Both of her novels have been made into audiobooks, narrated by the incredible actor Lisa Roumain, who can be seen in projects like James Cameron’s Avatar, Grey’s Anatomy, Yellowstone, and more!
There’s never been an evil man that Cassidy Callaghan couldn’t sniff out. Every bounty she ropes in is a stone turned over in her search for the one man she hasn’t been able to find, Jack Ransom—the man who murdered her parents. Outlaw-turned-lawman James Moone dutifully stands guard, always awaiting Cassidy’s return. She’s got a sour disposition and an even worse temper, but he’s loved her longer than he’s realized.
Moone is determined to protect her from the ghosts of his past and Jack Ransom, whether she likes it or not. When Cassidy finally gets her shot at Ransom, she commits to playing the role of a lady she isn’t. If she earns his favor, it’ll be easy to stab him in the heart, especially if she holds it in the palm of her hand. But after Cassidy gets swept away by Jack’s lavish world of theatre, fancy dresses, and regal living, she begins to question what she really wants. Fearing she’s gone too deep into her deceptive role, Moone is desperate to steer Cassidy back to her original plan, but she isn’t about to let anything stand in her way. Not corsets, danger, betrayal, or a complicated craving. Before they both know it, they’re the ones being deceived and a threat to all those they love. With little time on her side, Cassidy must decide if not giving into Jack’s demands is worth risking the lives of the innocent.
The Devil’s Backbone is a Wild West historical romance and the first book in a new series. The story is told through dual POV and multiple timelines, making for very intricate storytelling. The book also features several popular romance tropes, including One Bed, Touch Her and Die, Found Family, Love Triangle, and Slow-burn Romance. The story is filled with adventure, steamy romance, gunslinging battles, and witty, captivating banter. There are also some darker themes explored in this book, including unresolved childhood trauma, toxic relationships, and revenge plotting, making the story multi-layered.
The main characters in this book are all complex, flawed, and extremely compelling. Cassidy Callaghan, the bisexual protagonist, is the epitome of a spitfire. Her resounding belief that she doesn’t need anyone and can singlehandedly avenge her parents murders makes her quite flawed. She’s also bad-tempered, wild-mouthed, and stubborn to such an extent that may make her unlikeable to readers. James Moone, the town’s deputy with a dark past of his own, is Cassidy’s perfect opposite and sidekick. Not only does he keep her in check during their heated banter, but he is determined to protect her from the ghosts of his own past and the dangerous Jack Ransom, whether she likes it or not. James is much more likeable than Cassidy, and he ticks all the boxes of a strong, swoon-worthy fictional male character!
Despite the intense chemistry between Cassidy and James characters, their romantic relationship is very slow-burning. To be somewhat critical, there are some repetitive conversations where they express their feelings for each other and the dangers of pursuing them. By the time their steamy romance begins, there is a definite sense that it won’t last. On the positive, this is the perfect setup for their relationship further evolving in future books in the series. After some exciting conflicts, the book ends with many things unresolved and a new adventure beginning, perfectly paving the way for an exciting second book in this planned trilogy!
Narrator Lisa Roumain does an exceptional job narrating this audiobook. Her professional acting skills are on full display as she fully embodies Cassidy with a performance filled with dramatic outbursts, high emotion, and satire, perfectly suited to this unpredictable character. Roumain also provides very distinct and authentic voices for the large cast of characters, giving the feel of a multicast production. In particular, her performance of Jack Ransom is so cunning and captivating that you may find yourself easily bewitched by this ruthless villain. Roumain’s narration is also well paced, with an increased tempo during the later dramatic confrontational and battle scenes. Overall, Roumain’s creates an engrossing listening experience reminiscent of an epic romantasy audiobook, as she delivers a good balance of suspense, humor, captivating dialogue, and heated romance. Consequently, you’ll likely be fully invested in the characters’ outcomes and eager to listen to the sequel!
Overall, this book is an excellent read for those who enjoy Wild West adventures, steamy romance stories, and strong protagonists. The romance in this book gives off a high-stakes feel that is commonplace in contemporary romantasy novels, and it’s safe to say that this book could be enjoyed by a wider audience than your average western romance. If all of this sounds enriching, don’t hesitate to give this book a read or listen. The audiobook is so expertly and beautifully narrated by actress/audiobook narrator Lisa Roumain that it’s unquestionably the recommended format for enjoying this one!
