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The Return of the Highlanders #2
The Sinner
THE RETURN OF THE HIGHLANDERS: BOOK 2
Four fearless warriors return to the Highlands to claim their lands and legacies. But all their trials on the battlefield can't prepare them for their greatest challenge yet: winning the hearts of four willful Scottish beauties.
IRRESISTIBLE DESIRE
Alex MacDonald is known for his skill as a warrior, his prowess with women, and his vow to never take a wife. But now his chieftain has asked him to make the ultimate sacrifice: wed Glynis MacNeil, a lass famed throughout the Highlands for her exquisite beauty-and defiant ways.
Familiar with heartbreak, Glynis refuses to fall for another handsome scoundrel. Yet when Alex's past sins force an unlikely union, Glynis gives in to temptation and becomes his wife. Will their newfound passion be strong enough to fight the enemy that threatens their home, their clan, and their very lives?
Four fearless warriors return to the Highlands to claim their lands and legacies. But all their trials on the battlefield can't prepare them for their greatest challenge yet: winning the hearts of four willful Scottish beauties.
IRRESISTIBLE DESIRE
Alex MacDonald is known for his skill as a warrior, his prowess with women, and his vow to never take a wife. But now his chieftain has asked him to make the ultimate sacrifice: wed Glynis MacNeil, a lass famed throughout the Highlands for her exquisite beauty-and defiant ways.
Familiar with heartbreak, Glynis refuses to fall for another handsome scoundrel. Yet when Alex's past sins force an unlikely union, Glynis gives in to temptation and becomes his wife. Will their newfound passion be strong enough to fight the enemy that threatens their home, their clan, and their very lives?
416 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2011
105 people are currently reading
2499 people want to read
About the author
Margaret Mallory
24 books1,070 followersMargaret Mallory, a recovering lawyer, is thrilled to be writing exciting tales with sword-wielding heroes rather than briefs and memos. Since abandoning the law for romance, she's become a USA Today bestselling author, and her Scottish and medieval romances have won numerous honors, including National Readers' Choice Awards, RT Book Reviews' Best Scotland-Set Historical Romance, and a RITA© nomination.
Margaret lives with her husband in the beautiful (and rainy) Pacific Northwest. Now that her children are off on their own adventures, she spends most of her time with her handsome Highlanders, but she also likes to hike and travel. You can find information about Margaret’s books, photos of Scotland, historical tidbits, and links to Margaret on Facebook and Twitter on her website, www.MargaretMallory.com. She loves to hear from readers!
Margaret lives with her husband in the beautiful (and rainy) Pacific Northwest. Now that her children are off on their own adventures, she spends most of her time with her handsome Highlanders, but she also likes to hike and travel. You can find information about Margaret’s books, photos of Scotland, historical tidbits, and links to Margaret on Facebook and Twitter on her website, www.MargaretMallory.com. She loves to hear from readers!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 238 reviews
February 23, 2020
4 reformed manwhore stars
As a boy, Alex MacDonald ventured with his cousins and friend to the seer to learn of his future hoping to hear of his prowess on both the battle field and with women; instead, he is told that he will court a homely, plump lady one day. Undeterred, Alex travels with his close knit warrior group to France until his cousin Connor is called back after learning that both his father and elder brother have been killed at Flodden. Though Alex would do anything to assist Connor in securing his role as the clan laird, the one thing he absolutely refuses to do is wed to strengthen clan alliances. As the product of a bitter marriage, he refuses to subject himself or any child to the kind of tug-of-war of which he was the center knot. As his father told him from a young age, women are for fun, but never let one steal your heart or she shall also steal your joy.
Glynis is the eldest daughter of the MacNeil chieftain who escaped an abusive and humiliating marriage by stabbing her husband in the leg and fleeing back to her homeland. Since returning home, she has refused to entertain any marriage alliances and has done all she can to discourage potential suitors. When Alex and Duncan arrive from the MacDonald clan, she pads her dress and fashions large puss-filled splotches on her face to ensure that neither man is interested in her. Her ploy is quickly uncovered by Alex, though he assures her that she is in no fear of his proposal; thus, they decide to become friends. But when next they meet and Glynis's life is in danger, Alex finds himself agreeing to help her escape and travel with him to Edinburgh so that she can meet up with her mother's relations while Alex completes a mission there. The journey is long and fraught with danger, which only serves to push them closer together until they can no longer resist the pull of the other and succumb to their desires. But what will happen when they reach their destination? Is Glynis truly out of danger or has she only traded one misery for another? And what "gift" that awaits Alex has the ability to completely transform his life?
What I liked:
--- Fast-moving story line with action and adventure galore
--- Likeable characters - even though Alex was an admitted manwhore, he was not vulgar about it and he quickly changed his ways once he met the right woman
--- LOTS of steamy goodness (early and often, please and thank you)
What I didn't like as much:
--- I felt that Glynis was a little too quick to condemn Alex for something he did not do, especially when he had never given her any cause to believe otherwise - seemed over the top
Overall, a very steamy read with action, adventure, and intrigue along the way to keep the reader engaged. I could have done without so much angst and distrust on the h's part, but you can't have everything, right? ;)
Plot --- 4/5
Main Characters --- 4/5
Supporting Cast --- 4.5/5
Steam Level* --- 4/5
Violence --- nothing graphic
Language --- not egregious
POV --- 3rd
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild; 2/5 - sensual but nothing descriptive; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere; 4/5 - yes please! ; 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
As a boy, Alex MacDonald ventured with his cousins and friend to the seer to learn of his future hoping to hear of his prowess on both the battle field and with women; instead, he is told that he will court a homely, plump lady one day. Undeterred, Alex travels with his close knit warrior group to France until his cousin Connor is called back after learning that both his father and elder brother have been killed at Flodden. Though Alex would do anything to assist Connor in securing his role as the clan laird, the one thing he absolutely refuses to do is wed to strengthen clan alliances. As the product of a bitter marriage, he refuses to subject himself or any child to the kind of tug-of-war of which he was the center knot. As his father told him from a young age, women are for fun, but never let one steal your heart or she shall also steal your joy.
Glynis is the eldest daughter of the MacNeil chieftain who escaped an abusive and humiliating marriage by stabbing her husband in the leg and fleeing back to her homeland. Since returning home, she has refused to entertain any marriage alliances and has done all she can to discourage potential suitors. When Alex and Duncan arrive from the MacDonald clan, she pads her dress and fashions large puss-filled splotches on her face to ensure that neither man is interested in her. Her ploy is quickly uncovered by Alex, though he assures her that she is in no fear of his proposal; thus, they decide to become friends. But when next they meet and Glynis's life is in danger, Alex finds himself agreeing to help her escape and travel with him to Edinburgh so that she can meet up with her mother's relations while Alex completes a mission there. The journey is long and fraught with danger, which only serves to push them closer together until they can no longer resist the pull of the other and succumb to their desires. But what will happen when they reach their destination? Is Glynis truly out of danger or has she only traded one misery for another? And what "gift" that awaits Alex has the ability to completely transform his life?
What I liked:
--- Fast-moving story line with action and adventure galore
--- Likeable characters - even though Alex was an admitted manwhore, he was not vulgar about it and he quickly changed his ways once he met the right woman
--- LOTS of steamy goodness (early and often, please and thank you)
What I didn't like as much:
--- I felt that Glynis was a little too quick to condemn Alex for something he did not do, especially when he had never given her any cause to believe otherwise - seemed over the top
Overall, a very steamy read with action, adventure, and intrigue along the way to keep the reader engaged. I could have done without so much angst and distrust on the h's part, but you can't have everything, right? ;)
Plot --- 4/5
Main Characters --- 4/5
Supporting Cast --- 4.5/5
Steam Level* --- 4/5
Violence --- nothing graphic
Language --- not egregious
POV --- 3rd
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild; 2/5 - sensual but nothing descriptive; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere; 4/5 - yes please! ; 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
October 16, 2012
The Sinner is the second book in Margaret Mallory’s Return of the Highlanders series. Set in 16th century Scotland, the turmoil of clan feuding, alliances by marriage and political unrest of the times makes this an exciting, funny, and sexy story.
Alex MacDonald is the Highland’s version of a rake, and proudly so, because if there was one thing he had learned from his parent’s marriage it was to avoid getting caught in one of his own at all cost. He sees nothing wrong with taking many a lass to his bed because, as his father told him, “men like us needed women like we need the sea—and that one woman would never do for us.” But as often happens to these blissfully bedded men, it’s become apparent that he may have no choice when it comes to matrimony. The only problem is, the woman he’s set his sights on, Glynis McNeil, wants no part of Alex or marriage.
Glynis escaped one abusive husband and isn’t about to give marriage a second try, regardless of how much a good union would benefit her clan. Her reputation as an untamable, knife wielding woman has embarrassed her family, and she knows she should marry again, if for no other reason than to remove some of the shame, but she just can’t do it. Not even the handsome, charming, verra sexy Alex MacDonald can tempt her… Okay, okay, she’s tempted by him alright, but marriage has nothing to do with it!
I'll mention this for those who might be wondering, I have not read the first book in the series, The Guardian, and had no problem following this story whatsoever. It works very well as a stand alone novel, and that’s saying a lot coming from me, one who suffers from a chronic case of MR.BIOs – Must Read Books In Order syndrome.
The bottom line - The Sinner is a fast paced, entertaining tale that had me laughing, sighing and fanning myself. I love the historical elements used as a backdrop, the blending of fact and fiction. I've read a few book by Margaret Mallory and I've truly enjoyed each and every one because she knows how to write stories and characters I can’t help but love. I’m very much looking forward to reading more in this series.
This book was provided by netgalley.com in behalf of Forever, an Imprint of Grand Central Publishing.
January 16, 2012
http://www.demonloversbooksandmore.co...
”Four fearless warriors return to the Highlands to claim their lands and legacies. But all their trials on the battlefield can't prepare them for their greatest challenge yet: winning the hearts of four willful Scottish beauties.”
I loved The Guardian, so I was super excited to read this one. The Sinner is about Alex, and he didn’t disappoint. I liked the banter between our hero and heroine. Glynis is a stubborn and sassy lass who was sent back to her clan in shame after stabbing her husband of 3 months (she stabbed his inner thigh, guess where she was aiming?). Her father wants to marry her off again, but she has sworn to never marry again.
Enter Alex, who has sworn a similar vow. The two of them hit it off, even though they didn't want to...isn't that just the way of it? You aren't looking for love, then POW! hit upside the head with all these feelings and emotions.
I liked Glynis’ father, even though I’m not sure we’re meant to like him until later on, but he was a very realistic laird, and he acted like it. I wish we’d seen more of the other 3 warriors, the bits we got of Duncan, Connor, and Ian were good scenes—I just wanted more of them.
At one point, Glynis has conned Alex into taking her into Edinburgh to live with her mother’s family. But she’s never met them. She never even thought to ask to stay with them for a visit. So while they are very welcoming to have her as a guest, they also want to marry her off. She’d never thought in a million years that they wouldn’t just allow her to be the spinster relative who grows old in the attic. I laughed at that, just because it made more sense than having rude relatives, or super sweet ones. When Alex came to say goodbye, she threw herself at him, begging him to take her home—cracked me up!
Loved Alex, and I really liked Glynis, but after they got married, her whole personality changed, or reverted, I guess. It bugged me because she kept saying she trusted Alex, but then she wouldn’t trust him. His actions were definitely hard to ignore, but at the same time, why why WHY just bail? She just froze up inside, refusing to talk anything over with him at all. At least, until it was almost too late. But that ending was tense, and had me turning the pages as fast as I could.
There were several surprises, and it’s action-packed. I really have begun to love Margaret Mallory’s storytelling. Whenever someone asks me what a good Highlander book is that they should read, I usually suggest something like Monica McCarty’s highlanders. I think Margaret Mallory’s writing reminds me a lot of Monica McCarty’s. It has that historically descriptive prose that instantly transports me to the wilds of Scotland, and weaves in everything from Gaelic phrases to actual historical events without making it feel tedious.
All in all, a great story, a fabulous Scottish Romance, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who loves a good Romance.
***ARC courtesy of netgalley.com
”Four fearless warriors return to the Highlands to claim their lands and legacies. But all their trials on the battlefield can't prepare them for their greatest challenge yet: winning the hearts of four willful Scottish beauties.”
I loved The Guardian, so I was super excited to read this one. The Sinner is about Alex, and he didn’t disappoint. I liked the banter between our hero and heroine. Glynis is a stubborn and sassy lass who was sent back to her clan in shame after stabbing her husband of 3 months (she stabbed his inner thigh, guess where she was aiming?). Her father wants to marry her off again, but she has sworn to never marry again.
Enter Alex, who has sworn a similar vow. The two of them hit it off, even though they didn't want to...isn't that just the way of it? You aren't looking for love, then POW! hit upside the head with all these feelings and emotions.
I liked Glynis’ father, even though I’m not sure we’re meant to like him until later on, but he was a very realistic laird, and he acted like it. I wish we’d seen more of the other 3 warriors, the bits we got of Duncan, Connor, and Ian were good scenes—I just wanted more of them.
At one point, Glynis has conned Alex into taking her into Edinburgh to live with her mother’s family. But she’s never met them. She never even thought to ask to stay with them for a visit. So while they are very welcoming to have her as a guest, they also want to marry her off. She’d never thought in a million years that they wouldn’t just allow her to be the spinster relative who grows old in the attic. I laughed at that, just because it made more sense than having rude relatives, or super sweet ones. When Alex came to say goodbye, she threw herself at him, begging him to take her home—cracked me up!
Loved Alex, and I really liked Glynis, but after they got married, her whole personality changed, or reverted, I guess. It bugged me because she kept saying she trusted Alex, but then she wouldn’t trust him. His actions were definitely hard to ignore, but at the same time, why why WHY just bail? She just froze up inside, refusing to talk anything over with him at all. At least, until it was almost too late. But that ending was tense, and had me turning the pages as fast as I could.
There were several surprises, and it’s action-packed. I really have begun to love Margaret Mallory’s storytelling. Whenever someone asks me what a good Highlander book is that they should read, I usually suggest something like Monica McCarty’s highlanders. I think Margaret Mallory’s writing reminds me a lot of Monica McCarty’s. It has that historically descriptive prose that instantly transports me to the wilds of Scotland, and weaves in everything from Gaelic phrases to actual historical events without making it feel tedious.
All in all, a great story, a fabulous Scottish Romance, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who loves a good Romance.
***ARC courtesy of netgalley.com
October 22, 2021
DNF (10%)
The hero is too much of a man-whore for my liking. IMO, he's almost on the brink of bring called as a loose man.
Yup, he's the biggest spoiler in the book.
Whereas, heroine is a normal woman with ambition to be free from all of her so-called relations and family.
I think the book could have done better if Alex was a bit less of a Casanova.🙄
The hero is too much of a man-whore for my liking. IMO, he's almost on the brink of bring called as a loose man.
Yup, he's the biggest spoiler in the book.
Whereas, heroine is a normal woman with ambition to be free from all of her so-called relations and family.
I think the book could have done better if Alex was a bit less of a Casanova.🙄
November 3, 2012
Alex Ban MacDonald owns me!!! I loved, loved, loved this book! He was the epitome of a sexy, virile, alpha Scottish warrior, and the heroine Glynis was strong and assertive--a great match for Alex. The first half of the book was hot and playful. The second half of the book was filled with more conflict and tension--both between Alex and Glynis, and between warring clans. I was hooked the whole time. My only nitpick was that I thought Glynis should've apologized more for what turned out to be her false assumptions about Alex's behavior--I never thought he received the full recognition and justice he should've had for that, BUT it was a minor bump in a journey I otherwise loved! Can't wait to read the third book!
October 30, 2019
The hero is an utterly dense knobby idiot. And the heroine is not much better going around constantly accusing him of cheating on her. That's not romantic angst. If these two really fell in love then I have a bridge to sell you.
October 24, 2011
Alex MacDonald loves the ladies. And why shouldn't he? He fights hard and plays hard too. He never wants to marry; he doesn't believe any woman could ever hold his heart... until he meets Glynis.
Though most Highland women want a husband, one marriage was more than enough for Glynis. Her first husband was a nightmare. He treated her cruelly and openly kept mistresses. When she could take it no more, Glynis left him with a dirk in his leg and vowed never to wed again. But her father has other ideas. He is pushing her so hard to remarry, that she blackmails Alex into helping her run away.
Though Glynis and Alex both oppose marriage, they don't hold the same reservations about sex.. And their trip to Edinburgh has plenty of that. Of course, it's only a matter of time before that translates into something more.
I enjoyed this story quite a bit. Alex was suave and sexy and it was charming to watch him fumble about as he learned to be in a relationship. The love scenes are good --and I'm always a sucker for a good brogue. Plus, this was a couple easy to root for... especially once a child was brought into the story.
And then came The Big Misunderstanding. I hate these. And it was made worse, because it was so obvious that something like this would happen. Glynis went on and on about how she could never forgive infidelity. It was such an issue, there was no doubt in my mind that somehow she would end up thinking Alex cheated. It was very frustrating --and disappointing-- that this progressed in the predictable fashion. And it was a shame because I was pretty invested in the story by then --and I liked it. Grr.
I was satisfied by the end. It didn't quite live up to its potential, but it had a lot of action, some pretty good steam, and a healthy dose of heart. A little less than 4 stars.
P.S. This is the 2nd book in Anne Mallory's Return of the Highlanders series. It was designed to be read after The Guardian, but works easily as a standalone.
*ARC Provided by NetGalley
Though most Highland women want a husband, one marriage was more than enough for Glynis. Her first husband was a nightmare. He treated her cruelly and openly kept mistresses. When she could take it no more, Glynis left him with a dirk in his leg and vowed never to wed again. But her father has other ideas. He is pushing her so hard to remarry, that she blackmails Alex into helping her run away.
Though Glynis and Alex both oppose marriage, they don't hold the same reservations about sex.. And their trip to Edinburgh has plenty of that. Of course, it's only a matter of time before that translates into something more.
I enjoyed this story quite a bit. Alex was suave and sexy and it was charming to watch him fumble about as he learned to be in a relationship. The love scenes are good --and I'm always a sucker for a good brogue. Plus, this was a couple easy to root for... especially once a child was brought into the story.
And then came The Big Misunderstanding. I hate these. And it was made worse, because it was so obvious that something like this would happen. Glynis went on and on about how she could never forgive infidelity. It was such an issue, there was no doubt in my mind that somehow she would end up thinking Alex cheated. It was very frustrating --and disappointing-- that this progressed in the predictable fashion. And it was a shame because I was pretty invested in the story by then --and I liked it. Grr.
I was satisfied by the end. It didn't quite live up to its potential, but it had a lot of action, some pretty good steam, and a healthy dose of heart. A little less than 4 stars.
P.S. This is the 2nd book in Anne Mallory's Return of the Highlanders series. It was designed to be read after The Guardian, but works easily as a standalone.
*ARC Provided by NetGalley
April 16, 2017
This is the second book I have read from this author and it's another low rating. I don't think she will work for me at all. The men are all assholes. They are highlanders and they are suppose to be cave man ish but Alex was a douche. Which is exactly what I said about Ian in the last book.
Alex proposes and in his proposal he tells Glynis that he won't embarrass her. He will be deseret when he sleeps with other women... I understand that that's just how things were and that at least he was being honest about it.. but gah come on man.
The start of this book was actually okay. I enjoyed the story until they actually slept together. Alex was upfront saying he would never want anything more than sex. Glynis agrees she wants nothing else either but of course she changes her mind and she gets all whiney about it. Some things happen that I won't say because it gives things away but they end up getting married. And that's where it REALLY goes downhill for me. Glynis jumps to conclusions and she is a freaking crying ninny. Alex actually turns out to be somewhat okay after they get married. He promised not to sleep around and he doesn't. There was just so many stupid arguments between the couple. I was so annoyed. I almost stopped reading the book at 80% because it was unbearable.
I don't think I will read the next one.. I think I am done with this series and this author.
Alex proposes and in his proposal he tells Glynis that he won't embarrass her. He will be deseret when he sleeps with other women... I understand that that's just how things were and that at least he was being honest about it.. but gah come on man.
The start of this book was actually okay. I enjoyed the story until they actually slept together. Alex was upfront saying he would never want anything more than sex. Glynis agrees she wants nothing else either but of course she changes her mind and she gets all whiney about it. Some things happen that I won't say because it gives things away but they end up getting married. And that's where it REALLY goes downhill for me. Glynis jumps to conclusions and she is a freaking crying ninny. Alex actually turns out to be somewhat okay after they get married. He promised not to sleep around and he doesn't. There was just so many stupid arguments between the couple. I was so annoyed. I almost stopped reading the book at 80% because it was unbearable.
I don't think I will read the next one.. I think I am done with this series and this author.
February 22, 2019
Rated 4.8 Seductive Stars
I will say again, I am not a Historical Romance fan. I am though, a Highlander fan.
This is Alex's story. He's one of 'The Four Friends'. They've been together since childhood and are bound to one another out of a incredibly close friendship. They will do anything for one another and have on many occasions.
Alex is the ladies, rather lasses man. He can and has charmed the lasses out of their clothes. He's known as 'the sinner' to many. He's the blonde one, or rather fair headed one, from his Viking ancestors. The warrior with the the beautiful face who can't resist a pretty lass. He's both a lover as well as a fighter. He also has a talent for telling stories too. He leaves people of all ages hanging on to his every word, then wanting more when he's done.
No, this story is not all about seduction! There is quite an awesome story told here, just as there was in the first book. Lots of surprise twists.
I loved it! Hopefully you will too.
I will say again, I am not a Historical Romance fan. I am though, a Highlander fan.
This is Alex's story. He's one of 'The Four Friends'. They've been together since childhood and are bound to one another out of a incredibly close friendship. They will do anything for one another and have on many occasions.
Alex is the ladies, rather lasses man. He can and has charmed the lasses out of their clothes. He's known as 'the sinner' to many. He's the blonde one, or rather fair headed one, from his Viking ancestors. The warrior with the the beautiful face who can't resist a pretty lass. He's both a lover as well as a fighter. He also has a talent for telling stories too. He leaves people of all ages hanging on to his every word, then wanting more when he's done.
No, this story is not all about seduction! There is quite an awesome story told here, just as there was in the first book. Lots of surprise twists.
I loved it! Hopefully you will too.
July 11, 2020
The book started with the hero leaving the house of a married woman and I was skeptical as I hate infidelity in books -worse when the hero is involved as I believe he’s never going to be loyal. However, things changed when he met the heroine and I really enjoyed reading about their relationship during the journey to Edinburgh. It was warm, steamy, and just lovely altogether. I was touched when he first met his daughter and by the relationship the heroine built with her. Then everything spiraled down the drain after they married.
Their fights were horrible and the mistrust was just too much for me. It got to a point where I just couldn’t see the love they supposedly had for each other because of the bitter words exchanged. I disliked how the heroine was abruptly turned into an insecure nag and how she more or less punished the hero for nothing.
I stuck with 3 stars because I really loved the first half of the book even though the 2nd half really disappointed me.
Their fights were horrible and the mistrust was just too much for me. It got to a point where I just couldn’t see the love they supposedly had for each other because of the bitter words exchanged. I disliked how the heroine was abruptly turned into an insecure nag and how she more or less punished the hero for nothing.
I stuck with 3 stars because I really loved the first half of the book even though the 2nd half really disappointed me.
February 6, 2019
Dedicato al seduttore del gruppo, in questo volume l’autrice ci racconta come Alex, bellissimo, biondo, dai tratti vichinghi a cui nessuna donna ha mai saputo negarsi, sarà conquistato, domato e piegato dall’unica donna che avrà almeno inizialmente la forza di negarsi. Alex è un bel personaggio perennemente in bilico tra il suo essere seduttore e il suo essere innamorato, guerriero instancabile, dalla battuta pronta, ha non solo l’aspetto ma anche l’animo vichingo. Non si arrende di fronte alle difficoltà che paiono insormontabili, e accetta i rapidi cambiamenti che la vita gli riserva con coraggio e determinazione.
L’arrivo inaspettato di una figlia, ne rivela in pieno il bisogno di amare e di essere amato che trova negli occhi della stessa. Con le donne è un altro discorso. Alex è certo di aver ereditato dal DNA paterno la volubilità e si comporta di conseguenza, niente sentimenti nei confronti di quelle donne che dividono con lui il letto, ma dal primo sguardo scambiato con Glynis, beh è fritto.
Nessuna potrà mai sostituire nel suo cuore il volto di quella donna affascinante. Glynis però tutto ha in testa tranne che le nozze. Separata dal primo marito che le ha lasciato uno spiacevole ricordo, ha portato la sua fiducia nel genere maschile a 0, ma durante il viaggio verso Edimburgo da sola con Alex non può lasciarsi sfuggire l’occasione di possedere anche solo per poche ore l’uomo che avrebbe sempre voluto, fin dal loro primo incontro.
Separati dagli eventi, il ricordo di quelle notti li legherà per sempre fino a far loro comprendere che occorre superare le apparenze, occorre credere al proprio partner e avere fiducia in lui. Nulla a questo punto li potrà fermare, né i clan avversari, né gli ex assetati di vendetta, ne le faide interne. E la seconda coppia predetta dalla vecchia indovina è nata!
E nel prossimo volume Duncan.
L’arrivo inaspettato di una figlia, ne rivela in pieno il bisogno di amare e di essere amato che trova negli occhi della stessa. Con le donne è un altro discorso. Alex è certo di aver ereditato dal DNA paterno la volubilità e si comporta di conseguenza, niente sentimenti nei confronti di quelle donne che dividono con lui il letto, ma dal primo sguardo scambiato con Glynis, beh è fritto.
Nessuna potrà mai sostituire nel suo cuore il volto di quella donna affascinante. Glynis però tutto ha in testa tranne che le nozze. Separata dal primo marito che le ha lasciato uno spiacevole ricordo, ha portato la sua fiducia nel genere maschile a 0, ma durante il viaggio verso Edimburgo da sola con Alex non può lasciarsi sfuggire l’occasione di possedere anche solo per poche ore l’uomo che avrebbe sempre voluto, fin dal loro primo incontro.
Separati dagli eventi, il ricordo di quelle notti li legherà per sempre fino a far loro comprendere che occorre superare le apparenze, occorre credere al proprio partner e avere fiducia in lui. Nulla a questo punto li potrà fermare, né i clan avversari, né gli ex assetati di vendetta, ne le faide interne. E la seconda coppia predetta dalla vecchia indovina è nata!
E nel prossimo volume Duncan.
April 11, 2020
I knew that this would be one that I was very very into and o wasn’t disappointed. There’s some things that happen here that I want to gush about because they are so amazing but it’s also spoilers so let’s just say. This is about a stubborn strong woman who wants to live as she chooses and a man who thinks he’s worth nothing more but a good time because of a broken family life. Their coming together was amazing and I was into the angst that it gave us.
May 14, 2019
A very nice second in the series from Ms. Mallory whom I must say is a first time author for me. Narration was good and story was very nice as well. Deciding to finish out the series.
5-Stars
5-Stars
September 13, 2014
Liked this a lot more than the first book. For some reason, the narrators voice wasn't as bothersome here. Great story, lots of movement and action. Damsel in distress, reluctant (but not too reluctant) hero, lots of clan politics and pride.
November 6, 2021
I read a book! finally! after a week or more something told me to pick up a historical romance and i ate it up, this had good characters (with their eye roll moments admittedly), a well paced intriguing story, and just the right kind of romance to get me out of a slump! i think my rating leans more towards a 4.5 :)
February 13, 2012
"I see three women, Alex Ban MacDonald," She said in a far-off voice.
"On your journey, three woman will call on ye for help, and ye must give it," She said. "But beware! One brings danger and another deceit."
"What about the third lass?" he asked.
"Ack." Tearlag gave him a sour look. "One has the the power to fulfill your deepest desires."
"Ye are a sinner, Alexander Ban," she called out. "And the time will come soon when ye will pay for your sins."
Alex MacDonald was a love 'em and leave 'em type a guy. Never sticking with just one woman for very long. He had no desire to ever settle down. When he got a letter from one of his former lovers, Sabine, letting him know she would be in Scotland and had a gift for him, he decided to consult Tearlag to see if making the journey to see Sabine would be worth it. Tearlag was a seer with a reputation for being fairly accurate with her readings. Even with the seers warning he never could have foreseen what was coming. His life was about to change...
"Your chances of catching a chieftan are poor now," her father said, his eyes traveling the room. "If ye had proven yourself a better breeder, it might be different."
Glynis MacNeil was an obedient daughter. When her father asked her to marry the chieftain of another clan, she dutifully did. Saying marriage didn't agree with her, would be putting it mildly. Her former husband ended up with a knife in his hip (not what she'd been aiming for) and she'd gotten a divorce and been disgraced. Her father's wish for her to marry again did not coincide with her own. If she had her way, she'd never marry again.
This was a extremely fun tale that had be smiling, laughing, and shaking my head. Alex was the ultimate playboy who knew no boundaries except that he wouldn't stick around for too long. When he met Glynis who seemed equally set on avoiding marriage, to the extent of disguising herself to look ugly, he was intrigued. When circumstances threw the two together, well as they say, sparks ignited.
Glynis is headstrong and loyal. Convinced her aunt would help prevent her from being forced to marry, she asks Alex to let her accompany him to Edinburgh. When circumstances put both of them in positions where marriage seems like their best option, they decide to wed each other. As Tearlag predicted, Alex's past will come back to haunt him throwing hurtles in their way, and the two will have to work through them to get a chance at happiness. Plus, Glynis' ex may not want her, but he sure as heck doesn't want anyone else to have her.
On the Lisarenee Romance Rating Scale, this one get a Steam rating - too hot for a fan, but you still have a handle on things. You should use extreme caution when reading a book with this rating in public. People may inquire as to why you looked flustered and flushed. Overall, this one gets 4 1/2 out of 5 roses. A very fun and entertaining read.
"On your journey, three woman will call on ye for help, and ye must give it," She said. "But beware! One brings danger and another deceit."
"What about the third lass?" he asked.
"Ack." Tearlag gave him a sour look. "One has the the power to fulfill your deepest desires."
"Ye are a sinner, Alexander Ban," she called out. "And the time will come soon when ye will pay for your sins."
Alex MacDonald was a love 'em and leave 'em type a guy. Never sticking with just one woman for very long. He had no desire to ever settle down. When he got a letter from one of his former lovers, Sabine, letting him know she would be in Scotland and had a gift for him, he decided to consult Tearlag to see if making the journey to see Sabine would be worth it. Tearlag was a seer with a reputation for being fairly accurate with her readings. Even with the seers warning he never could have foreseen what was coming. His life was about to change...
"Your chances of catching a chieftan are poor now," her father said, his eyes traveling the room. "If ye had proven yourself a better breeder, it might be different."
Glynis MacNeil was an obedient daughter. When her father asked her to marry the chieftain of another clan, she dutifully did. Saying marriage didn't agree with her, would be putting it mildly. Her former husband ended up with a knife in his hip (not what she'd been aiming for) and she'd gotten a divorce and been disgraced. Her father's wish for her to marry again did not coincide with her own. If she had her way, she'd never marry again.
This was a extremely fun tale that had be smiling, laughing, and shaking my head. Alex was the ultimate playboy who knew no boundaries except that he wouldn't stick around for too long. When he met Glynis who seemed equally set on avoiding marriage, to the extent of disguising herself to look ugly, he was intrigued. When circumstances threw the two together, well as they say, sparks ignited.
Glynis is headstrong and loyal. Convinced her aunt would help prevent her from being forced to marry, she asks Alex to let her accompany him to Edinburgh. When circumstances put both of them in positions where marriage seems like their best option, they decide to wed each other. As Tearlag predicted, Alex's past will come back to haunt him throwing hurtles in their way, and the two will have to work through them to get a chance at happiness. Plus, Glynis' ex may not want her, but he sure as heck doesn't want anyone else to have her.
On the Lisarenee Romance Rating Scale, this one get a Steam rating - too hot for a fan, but you still have a handle on things. You should use extreme caution when reading a book with this rating in public. People may inquire as to why you looked flustered and flushed. Overall, this one gets 4 1/2 out of 5 roses. A very fun and entertaining read.
August 12, 2012
Favourite!
As a self-confessed Urban Fantasy fanatic it probably seems weird that I have this big soft spot for historical romance. Not all the time, but every now and again I just need some real romance, you know? And to me, no one does that better than a hunky highlander or a fearsome knight. They have to be warriors of some sort for my liking- no rakes, rogues, fops or dandies for me, thank you. I want battle-worn men with the scars to prove it. This is for two reasons: Reason one. Hello? Warriors, swords, big muscles, yeah, yeah, yeah, I really am that shallow. And reason two: slightly less shameful, it's because this generally means that the book will contain some kind of battle/conflict/fight scenes to keep my action-loving tomboy alter ego happy.
This book is quite simply one of the best of this genre I have read. It pretty much had everything I could hope for in a highlander romance.
The dialogue was one of my favourite parts. So authentic (or at least it seemed so to me). The banter was excellent, the stories that the characters would tell around a camp fire really served to bring them to life for me. I could imagine their lilting brogue as if I were sat amongst them.
The characters themselves were very enjoyable. After my initial worry over Alex's womanising ways - I'm not always a big fan of men who believe themselves God's gift to women- I grew to greatly appreciate his character and the changes he went through during the course of the book. The transformation was convincing and I genuinely believed it was sincere, which often isn't the case with former "sinners". Once a player, always a player as Jerry Springer would say.
Equally delightful was Glynis. From the initial encounter in her "disguise" to the very last pages, she was someone whom I respected and could easily empathise with. There was not a moment of whining from her regardless of the circumstances. She really was a great female lead.
I was very invested in both of these characters. Although sometimes I did want to scream at them to talk to each other, and indeed there were some painful, heart-rending moments to go through along the way, but to me, this just proves how good the book was. That I was so engrossed I felt the heartache right along with them.
The main story and the two or three sub-plots were all well paced. There was a great climactic finish which was very satisfying also. And a lovely epilogue as the cherry on the cake.
This is book two in a four-part series featuring each of the four warriors I met in this book. I know now that I will be reading the rest of them at some point. And I recommend that you do, too.
Review Copy: Received from the publisher for an honest review
As a self-confessed Urban Fantasy fanatic it probably seems weird that I have this big soft spot for historical romance. Not all the time, but every now and again I just need some real romance, you know? And to me, no one does that better than a hunky highlander or a fearsome knight. They have to be warriors of some sort for my liking- no rakes, rogues, fops or dandies for me, thank you. I want battle-worn men with the scars to prove it. This is for two reasons: Reason one. Hello? Warriors, swords, big muscles, yeah, yeah, yeah, I really am that shallow. And reason two: slightly less shameful, it's because this generally means that the book will contain some kind of battle/conflict/fight scenes to keep my action-loving tomboy alter ego happy.
This book is quite simply one of the best of this genre I have read. It pretty much had everything I could hope for in a highlander romance.
The dialogue was one of my favourite parts. So authentic (or at least it seemed so to me). The banter was excellent, the stories that the characters would tell around a camp fire really served to bring them to life for me. I could imagine their lilting brogue as if I were sat amongst them.
The characters themselves were very enjoyable. After my initial worry over Alex's womanising ways - I'm not always a big fan of men who believe themselves God's gift to women- I grew to greatly appreciate his character and the changes he went through during the course of the book. The transformation was convincing and I genuinely believed it was sincere, which often isn't the case with former "sinners". Once a player, always a player as Jerry Springer would say.
Equally delightful was Glynis. From the initial encounter in her "disguise" to the very last pages, she was someone whom I respected and could easily empathise with. There was not a moment of whining from her regardless of the circumstances. She really was a great female lead.
I was very invested in both of these characters. Although sometimes I did want to scream at them to talk to each other, and indeed there were some painful, heart-rending moments to go through along the way, but to me, this just proves how good the book was. That I was so engrossed I felt the heartache right along with them.
The main story and the two or three sub-plots were all well paced. There was a great climactic finish which was very satisfying also. And a lovely epilogue as the cherry on the cake.
This is book two in a four-part series featuring each of the four warriors I met in this book. I know now that I will be reading the rest of them at some point. And I recommend that you do, too.
Review Copy: Received from the publisher for an honest review
July 23, 2025
Story: 3.5 Stars
Audio: 4 Stars.
Overall the story was fun, steamy, romantic, action-packed, with interesting MCs. Both Alex and Glynnis were great characters in the beginning, their chemistry was amazing, the plot twists were intriguing and the sense of imminent danger at every turn kept me hooked onto every word. However, around 80%; the plot sort of slid into some tedious jealousy from Glynnis.. and added some miscommunication to that. It was boring and very cliche and I did not like it at all. Even though they got their hard fought HFN, I ended up feeling that Glynnis would probably never fully trust Alex and would always suffer from some form of inferiority complex and be susceptible to drawing the wrong conclusions wherever Alex is concerned.
Audio: 4 Stars.
Overall the story was fun, steamy, romantic, action-packed, with interesting MCs. Both Alex and Glynnis were great characters in the beginning, their chemistry was amazing, the plot twists were intriguing and the sense of imminent danger at every turn kept me hooked onto every word. However, around 80%; the plot sort of slid into some tedious jealousy from Glynnis.. and added some miscommunication to that. It was boring and very cliche and I did not like it at all. Even though they got their hard fought HFN, I ended up feeling that Glynnis would probably never fully trust Alex and would always suffer from some form of inferiority complex and be susceptible to drawing the wrong conclusions wherever Alex is concerned.
February 4, 2012
3.5 starts
Alexander MacDonald has sworn he will never marry and certainly never fall in love; after a childhood spent in a house where his parent hate eachother, he vows he will never do the same. However, that doesn't stop him from enjoying a woman, as long as she wants no more then a night, and he is well known for his philandering ways. The beautiful Glynis MacNeil has also sworn never to marry again, her first husband was a brute who humiliated her and she would never go through that again; no matter what her father says. Both their resolves are tested as they are thrown together and find themselves drawn to eachother and they start considering the unthinkable. Marriage.
This is my first Margaret Mallory book and although I wasn't blown away by it I did really enjoy it. Especially the parts with Alex....nekkid.... how can I resist a hot Highland warrior?
This was essentially a reformed rake story, only Highlander style, and I enjoyed reading as the very stubborn main characters, Alex and Glynnis, fell in love. They were both very likable characters, Alex was charming and gallant and although he was a womanizer he wasn't as intense and complicated as rakes can often be potrayed, and Glynnis was strong minded and beautiful. You could feel the connection between them and see how it grew through the book as although they were instantly attracted to eachother, it was great to see it grow into a frienship and deepened in to love.
This book also had a little action and although there wasn't really much of a plot that wasn't directly about the romance, it had enough adventure in it to appease my bloodlust. You could also tell it was a well researched book, although I am definitely no expert on Scottish history, there was a depth about the settings and characters surrounding the main couple as well as mentions of the political climate of the time as to give it the air of authenticity.
The reason this gets 3.5 stars and not 4 or 5 is that although I did like it, I found it a little slow to start and it took me a good 100 pages to get into it. Also, although I liked the characters and the romance which was sweet and sexy, it also wasn't something extrodinairy or original. But it was well written and fun to read, and I will be reading more of Margaret Mallory's book in the future.
Alexander MacDonald has sworn he will never marry and certainly never fall in love; after a childhood spent in a house where his parent hate eachother, he vows he will never do the same. However, that doesn't stop him from enjoying a woman, as long as she wants no more then a night, and he is well known for his philandering ways. The beautiful Glynis MacNeil has also sworn never to marry again, her first husband was a brute who humiliated her and she would never go through that again; no matter what her father says. Both their resolves are tested as they are thrown together and find themselves drawn to eachother and they start considering the unthinkable. Marriage.
This is my first Margaret Mallory book and although I wasn't blown away by it I did really enjoy it. Especially the parts with Alex....nekkid.... how can I resist a hot Highland warrior?
This was essentially a reformed rake story, only Highlander style, and I enjoyed reading as the very stubborn main characters, Alex and Glynnis, fell in love. They were both very likable characters, Alex was charming and gallant and although he was a womanizer he wasn't as intense and complicated as rakes can often be potrayed, and Glynnis was strong minded and beautiful. You could feel the connection between them and see how it grew through the book as although they were instantly attracted to eachother, it was great to see it grow into a frienship and deepened in to love.
This book also had a little action and although there wasn't really much of a plot that wasn't directly about the romance, it had enough adventure in it to appease my bloodlust. You could also tell it was a well researched book, although I am definitely no expert on Scottish history, there was a depth about the settings and characters surrounding the main couple as well as mentions of the political climate of the time as to give it the air of authenticity.
The reason this gets 3.5 stars and not 4 or 5 is that although I did like it, I found it a little slow to start and it took me a good 100 pages to get into it. Also, although I liked the characters and the romance which was sweet and sexy, it also wasn't something extrodinairy or original. But it was well written and fun to read, and I will be reading more of Margaret Mallory's book in the future.
August 29, 2013
It's official! I love Margaret Mallory
Goodness sakes, I'm just in a HR fog right now, and reading through them quicker than ever! Discovering this latest author is beyond amazing, must like this series!!
This one focuses on Alex MacDonald, and ladies...
that's right! Alex is ladies man extraordinaire!!! Player to the extreme, sworn never to be married, that is until circumstances beyond his control thrust him on the same path with Glynis. I absolutely adored her! She's stubborn, fiesty, strong, fearless, sexy and I was totally able to relate to her many insecurities with Alex's Fidelity.
I won't say much other than, this was an exceptionally written love story about a man who is afraid to make the same mistakes his parents did, a woman determine to settle for nothing less, a little girl who found her rescuer and all the steamy scenes that burn up the pages along the way! The one against the wall?
Great series!Seriously, what girl doesn't love her knight in shining armor rescuing her from the bad guy then pledging her love to her?!
Goodness sakes, I'm just in a HR fog right now, and reading through them quicker than ever! Discovering this latest author is beyond amazing, must like this series!!
This one focuses on Alex MacDonald, and ladies...
that's right! Alex is ladies man extraordinaire!!! Player to the extreme, sworn never to be married, that is until circumstances beyond his control thrust him on the same path with Glynis. I absolutely adored her! She's stubborn, fiesty, strong, fearless, sexy and I was totally able to relate to her many insecurities with Alex's Fidelity.
I won't say much other than, this was an exceptionally written love story about a man who is afraid to make the same mistakes his parents did, a woman determine to settle for nothing less, a little girl who found her rescuer and all the steamy scenes that burn up the pages along the way! The one against the wall?
Great series!Seriously, what girl doesn't love her knight in shining armor rescuing her from the bad guy then pledging her love to her?!
July 29, 2014
1 STAR - I DIDN'T LIKE IT
AUDIOBOOK
This was your basic, run of the mill, 16th century, highlander romance. When the book first started it seemed like there was going to be a pretty decent storyline taking place but as soon as the leading couple hit the sheets, maybe 1/3 - 1/2 way through, the storyline went bye bye and the typical misunderstandings... non-communication... keeping secrets... trying to make the other jealous... shenanigans began. I really don't like books like this. Books like this make me think that the "author" can't come up with an actual story, she just piles drama upon drama and when you think that finally the couple has gotten past their trust issues the author starts over again with more drama. And it's not even good or interesting drama, it's just ridiculousness to drag out a "book".
I don't recommend this book, even if you love silly highlander romance like I do. There are better options out there!!
August 11, 2011
3.5/5.0..... she says dejectedly.
For a complete review, visit Affaire de Coeur magazine, hard copy or online at http://affairedecoeur.com/ November 2011 issue
For a complete review, visit Affaire de Coeur magazine, hard copy or online at http://affairedecoeur.com/ November 2011 issue
October 29, 2011
The Return of the Highlanders series by Margaret Mallory is an exciting and engaging series about 4 Highland warriors who return home from their adventure and travels to take care of their clan and defeat their enemies. Each of the 4 warriors have their own strengths and faults, but they are all fiercely loyal and dedicated to their clan. The Sinner is Alex's book, his story about finding love and his place in the world, his home.
Alex comes from an unpleasant home life, his parents argued constantly and his father was always unfaithful to his wife. Alex had always grown up enjoying the company of women, and had vowed never to get trapped in marriage. However, when tensions between the clans run high, Connor (Alex's friend and chieftain) asks Alex to marry to form an alliance for the good of the clan. Glynis is a disgraced woman, she left her cheating, horrible husband and vowed never to marry again. However, as the oldest daughter of her clan's chieftain, marriage may be inevitable. Alex and Glynis are attracted to each other, but their relationship might never work if they can't overcome their distaste for marriage and Alex's wondering ways.
Alex is a very likable character, he has a bright personality, he is a fierce warrior, and he is loyal to his clan and his friends. Unfortunately, he is not loyal to women. He likes to love them and leave them, and keep women at a distance. However, as he gets to know Glynis, he slowly begins to change and he grows into an excellent hero. Glynis is a strong woman, she won't put up with bad treatment, she will defend herself when necessary, and she is very caring to everyone except for wandering men. She is very hesitant towards Alex, with good reason, but she is very stubborn, which is not always an asset.
I really enjoyed reading Alex and Glynis's story. They both grow and they both have unexpected soft-sides to temper their highlander fierceness. From the minute I began reading The Sinner, I was absorbed in the story. Margaret Mallory manages to incorporate historical figures and events into her books that give the books that little something more. The story fits the time period, and while reading it is easy to be transported back in time and place and vicariously experience the world of the Highlanders. The story flows along very nicely, and it is a fairly quick read.
After reading both Ian (book 1, the Guardian) and Alex's stories, I am only more interested in reading the future books. Connor and Duncan are the characters left. I am very curious about Connor's story, as he is the Chieftain of the clan and there is much responsibility on his shoulders. As for Duncan, he is a bit of a mystery, and finding out who is truly is promises to be a very good story as well.
Historical Romance readers, if you are looking for a good Highlander novel or series, I highly recommend giving this Return of the Highlanders series a try. Highlander fans, you can't go wrong with this series filled with loyal warriors, intrigue, and romance.
This book was provided for review by NetGalley
Alex comes from an unpleasant home life, his parents argued constantly and his father was always unfaithful to his wife. Alex had always grown up enjoying the company of women, and had vowed never to get trapped in marriage. However, when tensions between the clans run high, Connor (Alex's friend and chieftain) asks Alex to marry to form an alliance for the good of the clan. Glynis is a disgraced woman, she left her cheating, horrible husband and vowed never to marry again. However, as the oldest daughter of her clan's chieftain, marriage may be inevitable. Alex and Glynis are attracted to each other, but their relationship might never work if they can't overcome their distaste for marriage and Alex's wondering ways.
Alex is a very likable character, he has a bright personality, he is a fierce warrior, and he is loyal to his clan and his friends. Unfortunately, he is not loyal to women. He likes to love them and leave them, and keep women at a distance. However, as he gets to know Glynis, he slowly begins to change and he grows into an excellent hero. Glynis is a strong woman, she won't put up with bad treatment, she will defend herself when necessary, and she is very caring to everyone except for wandering men. She is very hesitant towards Alex, with good reason, but she is very stubborn, which is not always an asset.
I really enjoyed reading Alex and Glynis's story. They both grow and they both have unexpected soft-sides to temper their highlander fierceness. From the minute I began reading The Sinner, I was absorbed in the story. Margaret Mallory manages to incorporate historical figures and events into her books that give the books that little something more. The story fits the time period, and while reading it is easy to be transported back in time and place and vicariously experience the world of the Highlanders. The story flows along very nicely, and it is a fairly quick read.
After reading both Ian (book 1, the Guardian) and Alex's stories, I am only more interested in reading the future books. Connor and Duncan are the characters left. I am very curious about Connor's story, as he is the Chieftain of the clan and there is much responsibility on his shoulders. As for Duncan, he is a bit of a mystery, and finding out who is truly is promises to be a very good story as well.
Historical Romance readers, if you are looking for a good Highlander novel or series, I highly recommend giving this Return of the Highlanders series a try. Highlander fans, you can't go wrong with this series filled with loyal warriors, intrigue, and romance.
This book was provided for review by NetGalley
April 4, 2013
Alex MacDonald, is a very powerful and skilled warrior, but even more than that he is well known for his sensual gifts with women. Since he was young he vowed to himself to never get married...no matter what. But then he meets a young lass...Glynis. Glynis was once married but he was vile and abusive and ending up living back with her father. She has been getting pressure from her father to get married. Glynis has had a miserable experience with men, and the last thing she want to do is get married again. When she meets Alex, his powerful kisses make her go weak in the knee's, and all she wants to do is hold him in her arms. Alex tempts her so verra much, but she knows he has a middle name "Trouble". Then when they are both forced in a situation where they will have to wed. Glynis knows she has deep feelings for this handsome highlander, but can she trust him to love her back? or will Alex end up breaking her heart? The Sinner is the second installment in the series. After reading the first one and I just was utterly captivated, I was very much excited to read The Sinner. The Sinner is the type of story that will curl your toes and give you a feeling of excitement. Alex is a very sexy hero, a skilled warrior and is a very talented lover, able to find a woman everywhere. However once a woman starts to get clingy he flee's as if his clothes are on fire. Then we see Alex so resistant to caring for a woman, and we see it happen. I really loved how this author weaved such a powerful story. This was a very enthralling read, no dull moments in this one. Full of sensual bed scenes, heartwarming love story, exciting battle scenes and a story that will pull at your heartstrings!! A vividly portrayed read that will excite every lover of highlander romances. A MUST READ!!!!!!!
My Favorite Quote
"I thought your first marriage would have cured ye of unreasonable expectations," he said--and knew at once he had made another mistake.
"So, I am the unreasonable one?" Her eyes were narrow slits like a wildcat's ready to strike. "And yet, ye would expect me to mother your daughter, manage your household, and be your bedmate for as long as ye like. And then, when ye tire of having me in your bed, I'm to stand aside while ye have one 'discreet' affair after another with every willing woman in the Western Isles?"
Alex shifted from foot to foot. He did not sleep with every willing woman, but it seemed best not to mention that just now.
My Favorite Quote
"I thought your first marriage would have cured ye of unreasonable expectations," he said--and knew at once he had made another mistake.
"So, I am the unreasonable one?" Her eyes were narrow slits like a wildcat's ready to strike. "And yet, ye would expect me to mother your daughter, manage your household, and be your bedmate for as long as ye like. And then, when ye tire of having me in your bed, I'm to stand aside while ye have one 'discreet' affair after another with every willing woman in the Western Isles?"
Alex shifted from foot to foot. He did not sleep with every willing woman, but it seemed best not to mention that just now.
October 30, 2019
Second book in the series and it's just full of drama and manufactured conflict.
April 15, 2024
SO SO GOOD ❤️🔥🏴❤️🔥🏴 I was so engrossed in this one 5/5 loving this series
August 2, 2012
This is the second book in this series and I absolutely loved it. Alex Ban MacDonald is a confirmed bachelor and in this novel he finds just the right woman to upset that certain fact. Glynis MacNeil is just as dead set against marriage as Alex is, so of course this couple is just right for one another. Mallory gives us both an exciting and very romantic read. Light spoilers, read at your own risk.
What I loved most about this novel was the character development. I really got to know Alex and it irked me tremendously that Glynis could doubt him. I mean sure, he was a notorious rake but everything throughout this novel demonstrated over and over again that Alex was a man of his word. She wanted him to take her to Edinburgh, and he does. She wanted him to take her back home, and he does. So it bugged me that she is so quick to assume he’s strayed from her, and more importantly to her, his promise to be faithful to her. It really bothered me that it took so much from Alex to get her to finally believe in him. It also irritated the hell out of me that she not only didn’t trust his word, but that she couldn’t see how much he loved her. I know the words are important, but Alex showed her in a thousand different ways that he absolutely one hundred percent loved her and she just couldn’t get it into her head. She knew it but she couldn’t quite bring herself to believe it and I just didn’t get why.
Enough on her. She annoyed me. She had her good points, I admired her stubborn insistence on having a faithful husband, and her courage, but grrrrOn to Alex. This is a man you don’t want to fall in love with because you know he’s the sort who only hangs around for a night of heated passion and then is gone with the light of day. But heck, this is romance so we can safely fall in love with Alex. He’s dead set against marriage because of his parents’ bad marriage which was fraught with disagreements and shouting matches and separate living arrangements. As a child, both of his parents warned him he was exactly like his father (a skirt chaser) and Alex grows into a man who discovers he loves women and they love him so he thinks himself utterly unsuited for marriage. This fact alone wins my heart. Deserving man in need of healing? I always fall for that sort. But seeing Alex as a gentle father and such a loyal lover (to Glynis anyway) made my heart melt. When he told Glynis she could go and take his little girl (and their unborn child) with her because he couldn’t bear to keep Glynis against her will and thought himself incapable of providing a peaceful home for his daughter, a home he’d always wanted as a child and never had? Such a loving, gentle nature so unjustly treated by the love of his life instantly soured me on Glynis and made me all fiercely protective of this character. I’m such a sucker for this type of hero.
And then the rescue of Glynis from her ex-husband was the icing on the cake. After he has Glynis safe and sound and he tells her he couldn’t bear it if he lost her, I sighed at how raw that emotion was. Thank God Glynis’s response was appropriate to the declaration or I would have thrown my ereader at the wall.
Five glittering stars
What I loved most about this novel was the character development. I really got to know Alex and it irked me tremendously that Glynis could doubt him. I mean sure, he was a notorious rake but everything throughout this novel demonstrated over and over again that Alex was a man of his word. She wanted him to take her to Edinburgh, and he does. She wanted him to take her back home, and he does. So it bugged me that she is so quick to assume he’s strayed from her, and more importantly to her, his promise to be faithful to her. It really bothered me that it took so much from Alex to get her to finally believe in him. It also irritated the hell out of me that she not only didn’t trust his word, but that she couldn’t see how much he loved her. I know the words are important, but Alex showed her in a thousand different ways that he absolutely one hundred percent loved her and she just couldn’t get it into her head. She knew it but she couldn’t quite bring herself to believe it and I just didn’t get why.
Enough on her. She annoyed me. She had her good points, I admired her stubborn insistence on having a faithful husband, and her courage, but grrrrOn to Alex. This is a man you don’t want to fall in love with because you know he’s the sort who only hangs around for a night of heated passion and then is gone with the light of day. But heck, this is romance so we can safely fall in love with Alex. He’s dead set against marriage because of his parents’ bad marriage which was fraught with disagreements and shouting matches and separate living arrangements. As a child, both of his parents warned him he was exactly like his father (a skirt chaser) and Alex grows into a man who discovers he loves women and they love him so he thinks himself utterly unsuited for marriage. This fact alone wins my heart. Deserving man in need of healing? I always fall for that sort. But seeing Alex as a gentle father and such a loyal lover (to Glynis anyway) made my heart melt. When he told Glynis she could go and take his little girl (and their unborn child) with her because he couldn’t bear to keep Glynis against her will and thought himself incapable of providing a peaceful home for his daughter, a home he’d always wanted as a child and never had? Such a loving, gentle nature so unjustly treated by the love of his life instantly soured me on Glynis and made me all fiercely protective of this character. I’m such a sucker for this type of hero.
And then the rescue of Glynis from her ex-husband was the icing on the cake. After he has Glynis safe and sound and he tells her he couldn’t bear it if he lost her, I sighed at how raw that emotion was. Thank God Glynis’s response was appropriate to the declaration or I would have thrown my ereader at the wall.
Five glittering stars
September 11, 2012
j'appréhendais un peu la lecture de ce tome 2, car le tome 1 m'avait laissé un sentiment mitigé . Mais celui ci relatant l'histoire d'Alex , que l'on découvre dans le 1er tome, je ne pouvais pas passer à côté . Et j'ai adoré ! La lecture est très plaisante, l'aventure, l'humour, l'amour et la passion sont au rendez vous.
Glynis n'a d'autre choix que de devoir se remarier en raison de l'échec monumental de son premier mariage, mais cette idée ne lui plait pas du tout. Comme on dit "chat échaudé craint l'eau froide"! C'est sans compter l'arrivée d'Alex Macdonald encore plus allergique au mot "mariage". Mais ces 2 là vont se rapprocher progressivement d'abord pour fuir les perspectives de mariages qui s'imposent à Glynis et ensuite part l'attirance réciproque qu'ils ne peuvent nier ni l'un ni l'autre.
Glynis est une jeune fille, rebelle, forte, tétue et combative mais également meurtrie dans sa chair, douce et entière.
Connaissant la réputation de coureur de jupons d'Alex elle va tout faire pour combattre ses sentiments pour ne pas souffrir une nouvelle fois.
Alex lui c'est le séducteur de la bande. Fidèle jusqu'à la mort pour son chef Connor et ses compars Ian et Duncan , il n'a aucun sens de l' honneur pourtant lorsqu'il s'agit des femmes. Beau à se damner , les femmes lui tombent dans les bras sans aucuns efforts, alors lorsque la jeune et belle Glynis le repousse et lui demande son aide il est déstabilisé .
Mais comme tout héros au caractère de Dom Juan , Alex a également une faille qui va démolir toutes les idées qu'il a sur l'amour et le mariage. Et bien des surprises vont se présenter à lui, auxquelles ils ne s'attendait pas.
Le rythme de l'histoire est très enlevé. Pas de temps mort, il se passe beaucoup de choses et c'est un régal de suivre leurs aventures.
Tous les ingrédients d'une belle romance historique sont là : l'aventure, le complot, la trahison, la jalousie, mais aussi la tendresse, l'honneur, l'amour et la passion. Glynis et Alex remplissent très bien leur rôle de héros et j'ai été émue par leur histoire.
J'espère que les tomes suivants sur Connor et Duncan seront à la hauteur de celui ci
Glynis n'a d'autre choix que de devoir se remarier en raison de l'échec monumental de son premier mariage, mais cette idée ne lui plait pas du tout. Comme on dit "chat échaudé craint l'eau froide"! C'est sans compter l'arrivée d'Alex Macdonald encore plus allergique au mot "mariage". Mais ces 2 là vont se rapprocher progressivement d'abord pour fuir les perspectives de mariages qui s'imposent à Glynis et ensuite part l'attirance réciproque qu'ils ne peuvent nier ni l'un ni l'autre.
Glynis est une jeune fille, rebelle, forte, tétue et combative mais également meurtrie dans sa chair, douce et entière.
Connaissant la réputation de coureur de jupons d'Alex elle va tout faire pour combattre ses sentiments pour ne pas souffrir une nouvelle fois.
Alex lui c'est le séducteur de la bande. Fidèle jusqu'à la mort pour son chef Connor et ses compars Ian et Duncan , il n'a aucun sens de l' honneur pourtant lorsqu'il s'agit des femmes. Beau à se damner , les femmes lui tombent dans les bras sans aucuns efforts, alors lorsque la jeune et belle Glynis le repousse et lui demande son aide il est déstabilisé .
Mais comme tout héros au caractère de Dom Juan , Alex a également une faille qui va démolir toutes les idées qu'il a sur l'amour et le mariage. Et bien des surprises vont se présenter à lui, auxquelles ils ne s'attendait pas.
Le rythme de l'histoire est très enlevé. Pas de temps mort, il se passe beaucoup de choses et c'est un régal de suivre leurs aventures.
Tous les ingrédients d'une belle romance historique sont là : l'aventure, le complot, la trahison, la jalousie, mais aussi la tendresse, l'honneur, l'amour et la passion. Glynis et Alex remplissent très bien leur rôle de héros et j'ai été émue par leur histoire.
J'espère que les tomes suivants sur Connor et Duncan seront à la hauteur de celui ci
June 1, 2012
I have no idea why it took me so long to read because this book is utterly wonderful. The characters were very well developed. The plot is well developed and kept me turning pages till late night. I really enjoyed reading Alex and Glynis's story. I'm looking forward her next book "The Warrior" .
Ruins of Dunscaith Castle... the ancestral seat of the MacDonald of Sleat family
Ruins of Dunscaith Castle... the ancestral seat of the MacDonald of Sleat family
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