The Chief's Maiden by Cecelia Mecca

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I read this book because it was promoted as a free giveaway and I was looking for new authors to try. I have to say that I will absolutely be reading more of Cecelia Mecca's books! I haven't read any of the other books in the series, which is likely why I found the beginning a little slow. I'm certain many of these characters were introduced in earlier books, and I will be backtracking to read those. I'm particularly excited to read Catrina's romance after meeting her in this book.

That being said, it was easy to follow for being read as a standalone (by me) when it was actually Book 3 in the series. I was impressed that there were clearly complex story lines preceding this book and yet the plot was able to stand on its own two feet. Read as a standalone, it took a little while before the characters really popped for me and became their own forces within the story. Once they did, though, it really took off. It was steamy and sweet, and unlike many romances it didn't lose me at the 60% mark. I was curious enough as to how the plot would resolve that it pulled me through. The romance was well-developed and the side characters entertaining. It had a good mixture of tropes and innovations to keep everyone satisfied.

As a historian I enjoyed just how much historical detail she included. The heroine is a bibliophile, and Mecca's descriptions of the books loved by her characters were beautifully done. My biggest criticism is that I would've loved more similar descriptions of the rest of the setting, though I know many readers feel those bog down the story and slow the action. But, I'm a fantasy nerd as well as a medieval nerd so I like a good helping of both.

I have tried reading a number of newer Highland romances (I'm a life-long Julie Garwood follower), and this is the first one I not only finished within a couple of days, but also really enjoyed. I absolutely recommend reading this series - I know I will!



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