Hey Mona, great to see you here and that you love the Devote!
Yes, the two leathers are very different but Auburn will definitely break in. I would have never have thought to put it in the dryer but I'm glad (and relieved) to know that it helped. Yes, condition it and hang it with books and wear it to death -- it'll break in in no time. Your Edith is gorgeous and with your side by side comparison, it's made me consider the Auburn color. Congrats!