Bethoc Matheson has been responsible for the boys her step father has stolen and use for work. They all suffer under his abusive fist. Bethoc is desperate to find a way for them to escape, especially with a couple of the boys getting older and standing up to him more which she knows can only bring death to them. Bethoc is willing to do anything to help her adoptive brothers and her younger sister who she keeps with her all the time. But then Bethoc stumbles across a young man who has a broken leg and been beaten and she helps him heal and hide him from his enemies in a cave closeby. As the weeks roll by, Bethoc and Callum realize the powerful connection they have to each other. And right when it seems like their relationship is going somewhere, the mysteries and dangers that surround the area will come to betray them. And Bethoc and Callum will need to rely on their love for each other for strength and courage and to fight the evils that would destroy their lives if given the chance and they must put a stop to it...
Plot and Story Line
It has been some time since I have read anything by this author and man it was so good to connect with this Murray Family and some characters I have missed seeing. And oh boy, have I forgotten how Hannah Howell can sweep me up in a story and I just loved the way that this author captivates you with Callum and Bethoc. Now there is some suspense, danger and mystery that has you on edge at times and I quite had a fun time seeing the way this family comes together and helps each other. Callum is a hero you can depend on, and he would make the perfect "book boyfriend" because he is a man that you could easily see yourself marrying. He is strong, capable, reliable and kind. He makes the perfect hero for Bethoc, because even while he is injured and can't move, he doesn't act like an idot and make rash decisions even knowing the type of situation at home she is living with. He listens and is understanding, and I fell hard for this hero who is definitely swoon worthy. Now Bethoc is just as strong as Callum is but in different ways. She has a certain inner strength that is vibrant and real. She has a healing touch, and does everything she can to make the situation with the boys easier for them. The story really gets some flavor when events turn in a unique way toward the end and you really see what Bethoc is capable of. The romance that develops between Callum and Bethoc is slow though. They have some great chemistry but it takes a while for the emotional element to really kick in but when it does....watch out because it might blow you away!!!
The Cover
I like it.....I LOVE the hair and you know not many men can pull of the necklace....but this one can!!!
Overall View
Simply delightful in every way.....historically real with a romance that is packed with compelling emotion and sizzling chemistry.
Highland Commander is a brilliant and stunning work that Amy Jarecki has brought to us. In Highland Commander, we have a story of two people that meet at a masqued Scottish dance. They have a vibrant and stunning connection to each other, but Aiden--our delicious hero is a sea commander for England, even though he considers himself Scottish. Our heroine, Magdalen is the illegitimate daughter of a Scottish Earl. But later on, when Magdalen's father is accused of commiting treason and sent to London Tower, she must find a way to free him and so she looks to Aiden's help. But soon Madgalen's father won't be the only one at risk, and only with Aiden's help and love will they find a way to be free and together...
What a stunning story and I simply had a ball of fun with this book. Of course, Amy Jarecki never ceases to amaze me and she definitely wowed me into this book. What I admire about her is the historical details she puts into a story. I love learning about various periods of history especially the conflicts between the English and the Scots during this time. And she wrote it in such a way that pulls you back in time almost. The romance that builds between Aiden and Madgalen is passion and sweet and tender. It isn't an easy road for them however, and they really are tested here. But I loved seeing how devoted they are to each other and what they are willing to do to aid each other. Its not all roses and daises in this book. There is quite a bit of conflict in the story that tests this couple, but Amy Jarecki has the ability to pull me right into a story and I just don't want to let go of it.
I think what I truly loved most about this book was the mix of history and romance. Some might not prefer so much historic details, mostly because many authors don't use it like Amy Jarecki does. However, I am not one of those readers. I like the story to be realistic and true, and not sugar coated on the details. Because this time period is NOT an easy one. Its rough and hard, many injustices happened in this time especially toward the Scots. However I also felt that it wasn't too hard either, at least for myself. I really enjoyed seeing the way the history and the romance really worked well together in this one.
Overall a stunning and brilliant romance that will leave the reader breathless, stimulated and eager for more!!!
This review was originally posted on Addicted To RomanceI received this book for free from St. Martins Press in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Highland Crown is the first book in this trilogy and WHAT A BOOK. I simple adored this story in every way. There was so much delicious moments and great historical adventures. First off SALUTE to this couple writing team (and yes the name May McGoldrick is for a couple that have been writing romances since I got hooked on them) they definitely were in depth with all their research that came into play with this book here. I simply loved it in so many ways. It might not be for everyone though, there is plenty of focus on the romance but there is just as much romance as there is historical plot but at least for myself, I didn’t feel like the romance was neglected in any form but its style might not work for everyone. But seriously, I was on the edge of my seat while reading this book and I have no complaints here.
The story begins with our heroine whose husband has been captured and viewed a traitor to the crown, and so she and her sister and stepdaughter are on the run and Isabella is now in hiding but then a ship captain ends up injured on the shore near where they live and as a Doctor, Isabella aids him but through a series of events she and Cinead will be forced to go on the run and find help with his mentor and friend. Along the way of their journey there is a connection that forms that is sweet and sensual but also each of them discover many elements of their own lives and the history and where they are heading in the future.
Highland Crown is a great beginning to a fabulous story and I am thrilled to be able to pick up books two and three and see where this journey takes our characters and those people that are connected to Cinead and Isabella. I have a feeling May McGoldrick will be taking us on quite a ride and I am totally ready for that. It’s really so fascinating the history that is shown here but its a history that is not easy to read at times to be honest. This is the WORST time for the Scot’s (in my humble opinion) the regency era while in Scotland is full of turmoil and hardship for the great people of Scotland. And McGoldrick really showed this so well but at the same time they also show the true strength, zest and courage they had to fight for what they believed in.
Overall I found Highland Crown to be elemental reading for anyone who loves a historical rich romance that elevates and illuminates the beauty and strength of the Scottish people!! Beautifully portrayed in every way!!
Akira Ayres, a poor healer while out searching for any wounded after a battle near her home, stumbles across a wounded Scot, that pleads for her help to not only save his life but keep his identity unknown to the "red coats" searching for any traitors. Akira, is a kind hearted woman and couldn't resist helping this man even if it means traveling across the lands of Scotland away from her mother and sisters who need her, to keep this man safe. A man that makes her feel like the most beautiful woman inside and out. A man that awakens feelings of desire that she has never even imagined. Geordie knew that it was a mistake fighting in a war he believed in to bring back the rightful heir to the throne of Scotland once again, but by doing so he put not only himself but his children and their future in jeopardy and he must make it back home with no suspicion tied to his name. He can't ever marry again, but for the first time in his life he wishes he could give Akira his name and protection....but there is more at risk because he might lose more if he doesn't win over her heart for his to keep....
The Hero
Gordon, "Geordie" has always been loyal to his country but has had to tread carefully all of his life. Geordie may have power and wealth and a title that is highly respected, but he has lost favor with Queen Anne. But Geordie will do anything for his children, despite the fact that their mother demanded a divorce so she could enter the nunnery in France. There was so much to love about this hero. First off, he makes the best highlander especially when you take in account the era this story takes place. He is titled, but he does have to tread very very carefully, because it could be taken from him in a heartbeat. I loved how loyal to his cause he is, especially to those he is over. But we also see his faults too, and see some changes in him especially when he is faced with the aspect of falling in love for the first time.
The Heroine
Akira is devoted to taking care of her mother and her younger sisters. Akira comes from gypsy heritage, and even though her mother insists they let go of the old ways if they want to survive, we see some hints of it in her character. Akira learns the healing arts from her family, and her healing is what keeps the family afloat but just barely. Akira was a truly wonderful heroine. She is so kind and caring, and is concerned for others above herself and I just loved her nature comes out. And the way she does inspire and motivate others. She doesn't have a mean bone in her body but she also stands up for her values too. We see some personal growth in her character as well especially when it comes to discovering passion and true love.
The time had passed for teaching the woman about kissing a man, the time had come to show her the power she had over him--the power she could have over any man of her choosing. And, by God, Geordie wanted the object of her desire to him and only him.
Plot and Story Line
Oh man, what a story!!! I have only had the opportunity to read this author a couple of times, but each time I have picked her up I amazed by how wonderful of an author she truly is and she makes highlander romances burst alive in so many ways. In many ways, The Highland Duke brings about so many emotions and feels I honestly didn't know what I was feeling most of the time. And boy can she write some sizzling chemistry that doesn't overshadow the actual emotional intimacy of growth this couple shares with each other.
"A man could lose himself in those eyes of yours." Her mysterious Highland lord brushed his finger along Akira's chin, sending gooseflesh down the length of her neck. "Let us enjoy the gathering this evening and forget our worries about things to come. For tonight you are a queen and I am a king. The world is ours"
But what really makes Amy Jarecki stand out is the historical elements. Now, this may not be an aspect for everyone. But I just love it when an author knows her history and knows the culture and take the time to do the proper research needed for a book and it shows in this one. The story sets off with our hero being shot in the thigh and our heroine a 'healer' coming to save his life and not just in one way. Yes, she proves the physical healing but she also helps protect him from those that hunt him. So from the very beginning, we have some levels of intensity and intrigue. The brogue used in the story is well balanced, and easy to follow along and doesn't overwhelm the reader. I just became swept away with this story pretty quickly. Like within two paragraphs I was fully ingrained in the story and didn't want to let go of it. The romance was simply beautiful. The chemistry builds so perfectly. From the beginning, they have a strong connection to each other. And man some of the kisses and more sensual scenes were written so well, "curl your toes" type of scenes that kept you reaching for more.
"I want to kiss you, lass."
Her chin inched up ever so slightly.
His hand moved back and cradled her head while his mouth inclined toward her rose petal lips, then lightly brushed his mouth over the most delectable lips in all the world. Her wee moan made a fire hotter than the flames of Hades burn deep and low inside him. Every fiber of his body stirred to life. But the woman in his arms was the young maid who'd saved him. The lass who'd cast aside her doubts to help a wounded man she hardly knew flee from a mob of redcoats. Moreover, the lass cared not an iota about Government of Jacobite agendas. She cared about her family and finding the next meal. Akira wasn't to be taken like a harlot, but to be cherished and savored.
These two have a long road ahead of them before reaching their happy ever after though. There is the issue of our hero not able to marry unless he gets permission from the Queen who would do anything to see him unhappy. Our heroine really struggles with this. Because she loves him but doesn't want to be seen as his "mistress" even if it would mean her family not living in a hovel or barely making it by to survive. She has an inner battle she fights within herself. Because she is a poor healer who can barely find food to feed her family and the man she has fallen for is a rich and titled Duke, right below royalty. So we see the problems that come with the "opposites attract" scenario here.
"I prefer you, lass. Your parentage matter not to me. All that matters is you...and me.
But our hero....Geordie is so wonderful especially when he realizes that he will fight for her heart. I love how he is willing to prove to her he is worthy of her love, and loved the way he wins the hearts of her family too. It does get pretty dramatic and intense toward the end though, and man the ending was heart stopping and pulls at your emotions in a very meaningful way.
The Cover
What a gorgeous and breathtaking cover....I love the colors and the pretty castle in the backdrop but I love the pose of the male model here. And I love his celtic like tats, and his HAIR.... I love his hair hehe
Overall View
The Highland Duke is a heart stopping and sensually intriguing romance that takes you on an adventure of a lifetime....back to the wilds and dangers of georgian era Scotland. A tale that weaves its way through to your heart and mind and soul....A love story that tugs at your heartstrings! BREATHTAKINGLY BEAUTIFUL!!!
I received a ARC copy in exchange for a honest review, thanks to Netgalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca. I have always loved paranormal historical romances...a mixture of my two favorite sub genres in romance, but I hate to say that I had a hard time with this one. There were some aspects that I enjoyed, aspects that was different and unique in a way that really pulls you in at the beginning, but when I got to the middle of the book, I really had to force my way through portions of it, because I did want to find out how these find their HEA. This author can be a hit or miss for me, and this story really felt off for me, and so I had a difficult time keeping my attention on the story, I felt like the consistency of the writing was a little off, and that threw me off kilter as I was reading. The story is pretty well set up and I enjoyed seeing the paranormal element mixed in with it, a element of not just a shifter dragon (who is sexy hot!) but also of haunting ghosts, as I was reading this I kept thinking that I wished that I had been able to read this during "All Hallows Eve" the theme of the story would have been perfect. I did like the characters, they added some fun elements to the plot, and they were the reason I wanted to keep going...I loved this pair and seeing them together was enchanting. Overall, even though the story didn't fully meet my expectations, there were many exciting and sensual moment that were engaging, with paranormal twists and turns....STUNNING!
This review was originally posted on Addicted To RomanceI received this book for free from Library in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
X Marks The Scot was a delightful story and this is a book I have been wanting to read so badly for so long. As some of you may know I am trying to work through my backlogged Netgalley books needed for review. Now, this is one of those that I never even downloaded, so I did have to look for it in other places and it was published back in 2013...so yes this has been in my archives for a long time, probably one of the beginning books I had requested and just forgot about. But as my percentage is at 98% I am so close to being done with them and this is one of the few actually left. But I will also say it's a book I have been wanting to read so badly and I am so happy that I finally picked this one up here. Because it was so delightful and I had forgotten how fun Victoria Robert's writing actually is. Now it's not one of those that will pull you in right away, but I was drawn into these characters and their bantering was on point.
X Marks The Scot is a story that features:
Declan MacGregor-Youngest Son, Warrior, Loyal To His King, And A Rogue With The Ladies
Lady Liadain Campbell-Sister to the Evil Campbell, Has Integrity, Used to Being Ignored, A Healer
In X Marks The Scot we have a story where our heroine Liadain has been under the shadow of the evils of her brothers. But she braved and helped save some innocents from his evil, she was saved from the wrath of those he had wronged...most specifically the clan MacGregor. And now she is at the court of the King, under the watchful eye of the youngest brother Declan. He is a womanizer and a rogue and flits from one woman to another but there is a slow-building friendship that is building between them. But when rumors are spread that her healing arts are witchcraft, and a scandal erupts about her past and a mistake she made, she must now marry and by order of the king, she is ordered to marry Declan MacGregor. There is a high animosity tension now between Declan and Liadain that didn't exist before. But Liadain won't be ignored or trodden upon this time and stands up to Declan and reveals his prejudices on her past. And then they start a new truce but as they forge a new pact in their marriage, there is a danger on the rise, one that would put the King in danger as well as Declan being harmed and only with the cunning of Liadain and his brothers will they be able to save those involved and pave a safe future for themselves.
X Marks The Scot was a delightful story and I had so much fun with this book here and seeing all the characters that come into play here. I had forgotten about these brothers (it's been quite a few years since I have read them) and I just fell in love with this family all over again. It was such a delight to return to the highlands with the MacGregors. I did enjoy seeing the aspects that this author implements. This definitely had the type of plotline I really love in my historical romances and more specifically highlander romance. Our heroine is a healer, suffered from trauma and scandal in her past but has courage and tenacity to rescue those in need. Our hero is a playboy of historic Stewart era times. So he definitely likes his women and bedplay, but he does have substance. When he is married to Liadain there is something that softens him, he has a willingness and drive to carve a real relationship with her. He is truly dedicated when he puts his mind to it and I truly appreciated seeing his devotion to her and their marriage. The plotline was pretty expected until the last few chapters and then it was a whirlwind of events that keeps you so fascinated and intrigued. I like that this author can shock me in ways I don't expect or see coming.
Overall I found X Marks The Scot to be a delightful read and I can't recommend this highland romance enough. Its packed with historical relevance, relatable characters, a strong plot, authentic dialogue, and a sweet and sexy romance to keep you engaged all the way through.
This review was originally posted on Addicted To RomanceI received this book for free from Avon in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Mile High With A Vampire is the newest addition to the Argeneau series and it had the same tones of flair, humor, and action that we have come to expect from this series and this author. I actually had a fun time with this book and while it's not the most impressionable of the recent books in the series, I found myself entertained and quite drawn into the series and this unique pairing. I will say that the pair that we come to know in this book is not your typical couple, and quite frankly at first, I had no clue how Lynsay Sands would make them work but somehow by the end they just fit right for each other so bravo to this author for redeeming them in such an equal fair way for me.
Mile Hi With A Vampire features:
Jet Lassiter-Pilot, military background, martial arts training, aware of immortals and works for Bastien and company.
Quinn Peters-Asian (Chinese) descent, single mother, new to being vampire(immortal)
Mile High With A Vampire sets off with Jet and Quinn sharing a flight with a few other vampires but during their journey their plane crashes, there are injuries of other vampires who once awaken will be full of blood lust. With Jet being mortal his life is in peril from those that will be going insane with blood lust. Quinn is instructed to take Jet and run as far as they can find a way to contact Bastien or Lucien and wait for help to arrive. As they flee into the mountains they will have to rely on each other's strengths to get them through the ordeal. But through their journey in the mountains, they start to connect as lifemates, passing through each other's dreams. Even though Quinn is the one with vampire immortal like strength she is green to her world. She has kept herself locked away for years, hiding from the trauma of her past and the truth of her new identity. It is Jet that keeps them focused and helps her with her abilities and knowledge. But as they fight their way to staying alive and protecting the mortal who aids them, their bond will strengthen. But Quinn will have to come to face with her past and fight for the man who loves her deeply. But will her past and that which haunts her keep her from finalizing their connection and push away this strong gentle man away forever?
Mile High With A Vampire was such a different romance than I have come to expect from this author. And yes we have seen these types of pairings occasionally with Lynsay Sands before which features the heroine being the vampire and the hero being the mortal (human). But this one was different in that even though our heroine is the vampire, she is new and has neglected to learn about who she has become. I did love seeing the depths of her past come to light and seeing her face up to that. And our hero is no weakling either. He has a history of military service and martial arts training, so he is more than capable in many ways. He is the solid and true one in the relationship but also will stand up for himself. He lets Quinn know when she is treating him wrong and sets healthy boundaries for their relationship, and Quinn has to really face up to her own actions especially in how she treats him, and re-evaluate her decisions. I really loved seeing this aspect in their relationship.
So...I'm not perfect. No one is. We're all just doing the best we can. However, I think you're brilliant, beautiful, a wonderful mother, and perfect for me
Seeing the growth in Quinn was truly phenomenal and I admire the way it played out in this story. I also had a blast with other secondary characters and we got some laughs with Lucien. Man, he cracks me up every time he comes into one of these books. I LOVE it. As he is one of my favorites of the series, His dry sense of humor just added the right flair to the story and had me having bursts of laughter in all the best of ways.
Overall I found Mile High With A Vampire is a fascinating, high thrilling adventure of a romance, that takes us through the forests, a perfect fit love story that delves into deeper issues, with diverse characters, laughter and light to balance it through it all. A true piece of art that only Lynsay Sands can deliver.
For The Love of a Goblin Warrior was such an interesting story and yes this is one of my other backlogged reviews and I am not sure why I had never read this one, I think I had been intimidated by the title and the fact that it was the third in the series and back then I had preferred to read books in order. And you just don’t see goblin romances very often, in fact, they are very rare when reading fantasy romance but I was highly intrigued in seeing how this author would treat this book and I will be honest it was NOT at all what I expected it to be. I really thought this would be more “otherworldly” but the book actually takes place in a contemporary setting. So I guess it’s borderline paranormal romance as well because we don’t see much of the fantastical world here. But I did find the setup so interesting. To paraphrase our hero, is from a different realm, and his king was betrayed and he and his cousins lost everything they held dear and now are settling in the human world. But our hero Meryn is still recovering from the change from a goblin, and readjusting to this life, and healing from past wounds including losing his wife and children. But then he meets a nurse, and she heals the wounds that are deep. A deep friendship forms and even though he holds secrets, and she has a past that connects to his, they have a sweet love.
I really found this book so intriguing and even though it wasn’t a page-turner type of reader, I was really drawn into the story and didn’t want to leave Meryn and Nadine. Their romance is not what I was expecting, i definitely didn’t see a sweet romance happening in this one, but that is exactly how it evolved. I am highly intrigued by the previous books and their ladies. While its not my typical style of fantastical romance, I am intrigued and yearning for more. So bravo to Shona Husk for enticing my curiosity and crafting an unusual romance.
Emma, Duchess and a recent widow, is still in her mourning period, but about to come out of it. Then he uncle informs her that she is to be married again, willingly or not, she has no choice in the matter. Then that night, a stranger comes into her bedroom and kidnaps her for he is in search of a mirror, a gift from her late husband, that she had practically forgotten about. Now Emma is his captive, and send her uncle a ransom: the mirror, for his niece. However it is apparent that her uncle could care less if she ends up not returning to him dead or alive, ever since her husbands death, has gambled away her fortune and if she were dead he would have full access to it. Emma even though captured, has felt more at home with Ian that she has ever been with anyone else, and she opens her heart to him, even knowing that there is no future for them, for she is to marry another, as is he.....but sometimes the matters of the heart have a way of disrupting best laid plans.... A Highland Duchess is the most recent book from Karen Ranney. As far as romances go, this was a average read for me. I could get into the story, but it wasn't like I couldn't put it down, I actually ended up pausing multiple times through the story. It wasn't a enlightening read or enchanting, but there was a drama about the story that held a certain appeal for me. I have usually enjoyed reading books from this author, so I was surprised when I had such a challenging time getting through this one. I found that there wasn't much consistency of engaging the reader much. The story had some flow, but it could be erratic at times. I did enjoy the characters and the emotional side of the story. There were parts of the story that drew me, but there were other parts, where I had to force myself to read through it. Overall it was a enjoyable read, but not one I would want to buy or re read....
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