Sonny Fareham’s lover – and also her boss – is the charismatic Tony Bridgeman, a successful and ruthless man who usually gets what he wants. But for Sonny, the affair that has promised a future of hope and happiness must end in desperate fear. Late one evening, Sonny overhears a private conversation between Tony Bridgeman and his wife. Only then does she realise she is in great danger.Pregnant and afraid, Sonny flees her home to make a new life in the north of England, where she meets a gregarious and motherly new friend, Ellie Kenny. When the mysterious and handsome David Langham seems drawn to her, Sonny almost dares to believe that she could be happy again. But never far away is the one person who wants to destroy everything that she now holds dear…
Uncover a gripping tale of betrayal, escape, and the enduring power of hope in J. Cox's compelling novel, "The Devil You Know." This first edition hardcover, published in 1996, weaves a captivating narrative of a woman caught in a web of deceit and forced to forge a new identity against the odds. Sonny Fareham finds herself entangled in a passionate affair with her boss, the magnetic and ambitious Tony Bridgeman. Blinded by the promise of a brighter future, she believes in their love, until a fateful evening shatters her illusions. Overhearing a clandestine conversation between Tony and his wife, Sonny uncovers a chilling truth she is not merely a lover, but a pawn in a dangerous game. Suddenly pregnant and fearing for her life, Sonny makes the courageous decision to flee her past, seeking refuge in the anonymity of northern England. In this unfamiliar landscape, Sonny encounters Ellie Kenny, a warm and welcoming woman who offers friendship and a semblance of family. As Sonny begins to rebuild her life, the enigmatic David Langham enters the picture, drawn to her quiet strength and resilience. For the first time, Sonny dares to imagine a future filled with happiness and love. But the past casts a long shadow, and Tony Bridgeman is not one to let go of what he desires. He is relentless in his pursuit, determined to reclaim what he believes is his and destroy the new life Sonny has painstakingly created. "The Devil You Know" is more than just a romance novel; it is a thrilling exploration of the complexities of love, power, and the lengths one will go to protect themselves and their loved ones. J. Cox crafts a compelling story with richly drawn characters, exploring themes of courage, resilience, and the enduring human spirit. The novel seamlessly blends elements of family saga, historical context (likely rooted in the social and economic realities of 1990s England), and contemporary drama, creating a truly immersive reading experience. Readers have praised the book's suspenseful plot twists and turns, along with the author's ability to evoke a strong sense of atmosphere and emotion. Prepare to be captivated from the first page to the last as you follow Sonny's journey of self-discovery and her fight for a future free from the clutches of "The Devil You Know." This is a must-read for fans of gripping family sagas and suspenseful novels with strong female leads.