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MacGruder Brothers #1
His Captive
STRANGERS
With a wastrel brother and a treacherous former fiancee, Lady Nichola Westcott hardly expects the dangerously seductive Scot who kidnaps her to be a man of his word. Though Sir Alexander MacGruder promises not to hurt her, Nichola's only value is as a pawn to be ransomed.
ENEMIES
Alexander's goal is to avenge his father's murder, not to become entangled with the enemy. But his desire to keep Nichola with him, in his home-in his bed-unwittingly make her a target for those who have no qualms about shedding English blood.
LOVERS
Now Nichola is trapped-by her powerful attraction to a man whose touch shakes her to the core. Unwilling and unable to resist each other, can Nichola and Alexander save a love that has enslaved them both?
317 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 7, 2012
110 people are currently reading
939 people want to read
About the author
Diana Cosby
22 books328 followers A retired Navy Chief, Diana Cosby is an international bestselling author of Scottish medieval romantic suspense. Books in her award-winning MacGruder Brothers series are translated in five languages. Diana has spoken at the Library of Congress, Lady Jane’s Salon in NYC, and appeared in Woman’s Day, on USA Today’s romance blog, “Happy Ever After,” MSN.com, Atlantic County Women Magazine, and Texoma Living Magazine.
After her career in the Navy, Diana dove into her passion – writing romance novels. With 34 moves behind her, she was anxious to create characters who reflected the amazing cultures and people she’s met throughout the world. With the release of her 1st book in her new Scottish medieval The Oath Trilogy, An Oath Taken, which hit bestseller lists in Canada and the United Kingdom, as well as the release of the e Box Set of the MacGruder Brothers series, she’s now preparing for the last two books in The Oath trilogy, An Oath Broken – 22 June, and, An Oath Sworn – 23 December, 2015!
Diana looks forward to the years of writing ahead and meeting the amazing people who will share this journey.
After her career in the Navy, Diana dove into her passion – writing romance novels. With 34 moves behind her, she was anxious to create characters who reflected the amazing cultures and people she’s met throughout the world. With the release of her 1st book in her new Scottish medieval The Oath Trilogy, An Oath Taken, which hit bestseller lists in Canada and the United Kingdom, as well as the release of the e Box Set of the MacGruder Brothers series, she’s now preparing for the last two books in The Oath trilogy, An Oath Broken – 22 June, and, An Oath Sworn – 23 December, 2015!
Diana looks forward to the years of writing ahead and meeting the amazing people who will share this journey.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
May 13, 2008
I liked this book, but wouldn't rave about it and certainly wouldn't pick it up again.
SPOILERS
Alexandra kidnaps Nichola in place of her drunken brother. From the moment he sees her he's instantly in lust. Nichola starts to have hot thoughts about him a wee bit later (and I mean wee). The first 1/3 of this book is mostly their arrival to his castle and is a repetition of him lusting after her but pulling away cos he knows he shouldn't and she wondering why she is having such thoughts about her kidnapper.
Alexandra is portrayed early as a hard man, but as the trip to his castle continues, we start to see him as a more likeable guy. Nichola, was the better character of the 2 for me. I liked her, felt her and empathized with her. However, the nearly instant attraction to Alexandra was just a wee bit ho-hum.
Once arriving at the castle, Nichola is placed in the tower room and is kept there for her own protection. Things continue to heat up between Alexander and Nichola (of course) and reach a very satisfying conclusion.
Points I didn't like about this book:
- It was a bit repetitive in the first part, I found myself getting impatient.
- Although the premise was there for some really interesting bits in the storyline, the author seemed to miss them. Eg. I thought the castle peoples' hatred of the English was far too easy overcome by Nichola - esp since hardly any of them actually see her. Also Nicholas' fear of storms/dark could have been given a bit more bite.
- Overall the book seemed to 'skim' along and took a while to move forward in places.
Points I liked about this book:
- The sexual tension, though at times repetitive, built very nicely through the story.
- I really liked the 3 brothers interaction with each other. This was written very well and gave more punch to what happens at the end of the story.
- Nice little twist at the end. I literally didn't see it coming.
This was a nice light read. Although my review may seem a bit negative, I liked this story far more than I disliked. I have just read some great books lately and maybe this had a detrimental affect when I read this one. I will definetly keep an eye out for her next one and see how she goes.
SPOILERS
Alexandra kidnaps Nichola in place of her drunken brother. From the moment he sees her he's instantly in lust. Nichola starts to have hot thoughts about him a wee bit later (and I mean wee). The first 1/3 of this book is mostly their arrival to his castle and is a repetition of him lusting after her but pulling away cos he knows he shouldn't and she wondering why she is having such thoughts about her kidnapper.
Alexandra is portrayed early as a hard man, but as the trip to his castle continues, we start to see him as a more likeable guy. Nichola, was the better character of the 2 for me. I liked her, felt her and empathized with her. However, the nearly instant attraction to Alexandra was just a wee bit ho-hum.
Once arriving at the castle, Nichola is placed in the tower room and is kept there for her own protection. Things continue to heat up between Alexander and Nichola (of course) and reach a very satisfying conclusion.
Points I didn't like about this book:
- It was a bit repetitive in the first part, I found myself getting impatient.
- Although the premise was there for some really interesting bits in the storyline, the author seemed to miss them. Eg. I thought the castle peoples' hatred of the English was far too easy overcome by Nichola - esp since hardly any of them actually see her. Also Nicholas' fear of storms/dark could have been given a bit more bite.
- Overall the book seemed to 'skim' along and took a while to move forward in places.
Points I liked about this book:
- The sexual tension, though at times repetitive, built very nicely through the story.
- I really liked the 3 brothers interaction with each other. This was written very well and gave more punch to what happens at the end of the story.
- Nice little twist at the end. I literally didn't see it coming.
This was a nice light read. Although my review may seem a bit negative, I liked this story far more than I disliked. I have just read some great books lately and maybe this had a detrimental affect when I read this one. I will definetly keep an eye out for her next one and see how she goes.
June 21, 2017
Forgettable book. Forgettable story. I can barely remember the plot except for the cliche hero 'kidnapping' his enemy's daughter and forcing her to stay with him. As typical set up as it is, it got really redundant with the push/pull between the hero and heroine and her constantly trying to run away. Wasn't much of a love story for me.
April 23, 2020
Review posted on Got Fiction?
There are spoilers in this review.
The beginning of this book really had me intrigued. Lady Nichola has been slowly selling off heirlooms to keep her and her wastrel brother afloat. He’s never home and she has no idea where he goes, but she’s doing her best to keep their heads above water. The latest rumors are that he killed a man he’d fought with over gambling debts. She’s trying to get him to stop for a minute and talk to her when he leaves through a secret passage and she’s at a loss for words.
And there’s a man in the room with her. In case he’s here for money that she doesn’t have, she’s cold and haughty. He wants her brother but decides he’ll take Nichola for ransom instead.
I liked Nichola. She was scared out of her mind, but she still found ways to try to escape. Alexander never once acted like he understood how scared she truly was. Her repeated escape attempts didn’t make sense to him, after all, he’d promised not to hurt her and that as soon as the ransom was paid, she could go home (eyeroll). I got so frustrated with him for not ever trying to put her at ease other than the fact that he gave her his word. But I still liked him and thought he behaved like any 13c warrior would around her. He even stole her a new gown every time hers ripped. And seriously, were her gowns made of paper because every single one ripped or tore and with the exception of the first one, none of the instances made sense.
The journey to Scotland was interesting and I was really into the story, even with Nichola’s ridiculous escape attempts (I mean she doesn’t even know which direction England is and she’s walking through a forest), and Alexander having no empathy. And then we got to his home. His eldest brother is the earl, and he’s just kidnapped a baron’s sister. His brother is furious. His other two brothers are very opposite. One is fun and flirty, and the other is livid. He hates the English so how dare Alexander bring an Englishwoman to their keep. And that whole brother plot? It was unnecessary.
This is where I feel like the story went downhill. Nichola got locked in the tower room and for the next 4 days, Alexander ignores her trying to get his head on straight-you know, she’s only here for her ransom, support William Wallace and the rebels, that sort of thing. Except Nichola doesn’t take to being held captive well and she starts to starve herself and withdraw. This is where I almost DNF’d (did not finish). Alexander found her in bed weak from not eating for a couple days and then he’s all over her? She’s whispering and weak one moment, then ready for sexytimes the next? I’m not okay with that whole scene. So he forces her to eat and they go on a walk and more sexytimes, before being interrupted by his brothers. The one who hates the English decides that he needs to get rid of Nichola. Seriously. And for Alexander to believe his brother that far into the book? It didn’t work with the trust that he and Nichola had built up, and it felt wrong. That whole brother side plot was unnecessary. I’m really mad at this book.
I won’t be continuing on with this series. It’s not for me. The second book is only $.99 if you want to, but I’m out.
***I bought this book
There are spoilers in this review.
The beginning of this book really had me intrigued. Lady Nichola has been slowly selling off heirlooms to keep her and her wastrel brother afloat. He’s never home and she has no idea where he goes, but she’s doing her best to keep their heads above water. The latest rumors are that he killed a man he’d fought with over gambling debts. She’s trying to get him to stop for a minute and talk to her when he leaves through a secret passage and she’s at a loss for words.
And there’s a man in the room with her. In case he’s here for money that she doesn’t have, she’s cold and haughty. He wants her brother but decides he’ll take Nichola for ransom instead.
I liked Nichola. She was scared out of her mind, but she still found ways to try to escape. Alexander never once acted like he understood how scared she truly was. Her repeated escape attempts didn’t make sense to him, after all, he’d promised not to hurt her and that as soon as the ransom was paid, she could go home (eyeroll). I got so frustrated with him for not ever trying to put her at ease other than the fact that he gave her his word. But I still liked him and thought he behaved like any 13c warrior would around her. He even stole her a new gown every time hers ripped. And seriously, were her gowns made of paper because every single one ripped or tore and with the exception of the first one, none of the instances made sense.
The journey to Scotland was interesting and I was really into the story, even with Nichola’s ridiculous escape attempts (I mean she doesn’t even know which direction England is and she’s walking through a forest), and Alexander having no empathy. And then we got to his home. His eldest brother is the earl, and he’s just kidnapped a baron’s sister. His brother is furious. His other two brothers are very opposite. One is fun and flirty, and the other is livid. He hates the English so how dare Alexander bring an Englishwoman to their keep. And that whole brother plot? It was unnecessary.
This is where I feel like the story went downhill. Nichola got locked in the tower room and for the next 4 days, Alexander ignores her trying to get his head on straight-you know, she’s only here for her ransom, support William Wallace and the rebels, that sort of thing. Except Nichola doesn’t take to being held captive well and she starts to starve herself and withdraw. This is where I almost DNF’d (did not finish). Alexander found her in bed weak from not eating for a couple days and then he’s all over her? She’s whispering and weak one moment, then ready for sexytimes the next? I’m not okay with that whole scene. So he forces her to eat and they go on a walk and more sexytimes, before being interrupted by his brothers. The one who hates the English decides that he needs to get rid of Nichola. Seriously. And for Alexander to believe his brother that far into the book? It didn’t work with the trust that he and Nichola had built up, and it felt wrong. That whole brother side plot was unnecessary. I’m really mad at this book.
I won’t be continuing on with this series. It’s not for me. The second book is only $.99 if you want to, but I’m out.
***I bought this book
May 4, 2015
"How had he ever been so blessed to have been gifted with her in his life?"
Plot:
Series - Grandmother's room in the tower is enchanted. The stones within would draw the one person meant for each of them, "a woman who would teach them to love and make them whole."
Book - Alexander, sent to abduct Lord Westcott, finds instead his sister. But money is money, right? So he takes her back to their castle, sends the ransom, and proceeds to fall for her. But an English lass in a Scottish stronghold, especially one without the funds to pay the ransom, does not have a safe and peaceful life. Will Alexander admit that she holds her heart before all is lost?
Comments:
- Historical (medieval) romance. Northumberland and Scottish Borderlands, 1296.
- 2856 kindle locations, 315 pages.
- m/f - not overly frequent nor overly explicit. While she is a willing partner, there is a bit of a feeling of seducing her to get his own way - she'll enjoy it even when she doesn't want to.
- As the first book in a series we are introduced to our future main characters and we start to learn their motivations. For example, this book is likely to be pivotal to Book 4. But it would also happily stand alone. There isn't really an over-arching plot, other than historic events and the MacGruder's role in them.
- The history. Cosby has included references to historic events. Eg Berwick and Wallace's death. They are a little clumsy at times, I'm afraid. It does help to place us in the time and give the reader the impression the MacGruder's have a pivotal role in Scotland's defence. But I found it heavy handed.
Opinion:
Stockholm Syndrome. Nichola is abducted from her home, her life is threatened frequently. She is shown infrequent care and support from Alexander as they trek to his castle. Once there her life is completely under his control - her fears, her comfort, her food, her freedom. And so she feels empathy for him. She is forced to trust in him, defend him, support him, and love him. *grimace*
Look, as a book it works. It is believable. Trauma bonding is real and he does truly care for her. She survived. And she learnt to love him. But I struggled to suspend my disbelief.
I love the premise of this series. The enchanted room with magic stones which lead each of the men to that which they need the most. Alexander's stone is azurite. "It is said to aid in control over your emotions and reactions, and to give the wearer greater insight." There is something in this that I really want to work.
But in "His Captive" it didn't. I found the story clumsy and forced, and I simply couldn't get past the abduction. Hoping Book 2 will be better, because I really, really want it to be.
- The MacGruders -
Book 1 His Captive - Nichola and Alexander
Book 2 His Woman - Isabel and Duncan
Book 3 His Conquest - Linet and Seathen
Book 4 His Destiny - Emma and Patrik
Book 5 His Seduction - Griffin (Wulfe)
Book 6 His Enchantment - Catarine MacLaren MacGruder (Grandmother)
-CR-
Plot:
Series - Grandmother's room in the tower is enchanted. The stones within would draw the one person meant for each of them, "a woman who would teach them to love and make them whole."
Book - Alexander, sent to abduct Lord Westcott, finds instead his sister. But money is money, right? So he takes her back to their castle, sends the ransom, and proceeds to fall for her. But an English lass in a Scottish stronghold, especially one without the funds to pay the ransom, does not have a safe and peaceful life. Will Alexander admit that she holds her heart before all is lost?
Comments:
- Historical (medieval) romance. Northumberland and Scottish Borderlands, 1296.
- 2856 kindle locations, 315 pages.
- m/f - not overly frequent nor overly explicit. While she is a willing partner, there is a bit of a feeling of seducing her to get his own way - she'll enjoy it even when she doesn't want to.
- As the first book in a series we are introduced to our future main characters and we start to learn their motivations. For example, this book is likely to be pivotal to Book 4. But it would also happily stand alone. There isn't really an over-arching plot, other than historic events and the MacGruder's role in them.
- The history. Cosby has included references to historic events. Eg Berwick and Wallace's death. They are a little clumsy at times, I'm afraid. It does help to place us in the time and give the reader the impression the MacGruder's have a pivotal role in Scotland's defence. But I found it heavy handed.
Opinion:
Stockholm Syndrome. Nichola is abducted from her home, her life is threatened frequently. She is shown infrequent care and support from Alexander as they trek to his castle. Once there her life is completely under his control - her fears, her comfort, her food, her freedom. And so she feels empathy for him. She is forced to trust in him, defend him, support him, and love him. *grimace*
Look, as a book it works. It is believable. Trauma bonding is real and he does truly care for her. She survived. And she learnt to love him. But I struggled to suspend my disbelief.
I love the premise of this series. The enchanted room with magic stones which lead each of the men to that which they need the most. Alexander's stone is azurite. "It is said to aid in control over your emotions and reactions, and to give the wearer greater insight." There is something in this that I really want to work.
But in "His Captive" it didn't. I found the story clumsy and forced, and I simply couldn't get past the abduction. Hoping Book 2 will be better, because I really, really want it to be.
- The MacGruders -
Book 1 His Captive - Nichola and Alexander
Book 2 His Woman - Isabel and Duncan
Book 3 His Conquest - Linet and Seathen
Book 4 His Destiny - Emma and Patrik
Book 5 His Seduction - Griffin (Wulfe)
Book 6 His Enchantment - Catarine MacLaren MacGruder (Grandmother)
-CR-
July 6, 2012
It sounded so good in a purely naughty way. She is his captive. This book was frustrating not because of any sexually tension being built but my the pure annoyance of the characters. Nichola is just to weak seeming and while she is supposedly falling in love with Alexander she is so against every move he makes going as far as to wish him ill. Their many arguments are tedious at best.
Alexander and his brothers are to carbon copy of other, better, stories. Once meeting certain characters, you know the outcome of the book, who will do what and who is actually someone else. Cosby tries to throw you off the trail of Wulfe's secret identity but it is so obvious it hurts.
The reason I originally snagged this book was because it sounded good. The back of the book is more interesting than the whole of it. In the description it says that Alexander's goal is to avenge his father's death so you almost assume against Nichola's family but he vengefulness is a general attitude towards the English, Longshanks in particular. It doesn't even seem like a major factor in the story. And the whole "making her a target for those who have no qualms shedding English blood" make it sound like a huge danger lurks around any corner, when in truth the danger only manifests itself a few chapters from the end and is obvious and doesn't make you scared one wit for her life.
Cosby was very new to me but I doubt I'll be reading anything by her again. I do plan on swapping this book if anyone will ever take it off my hands. I would recommend ignoring this book even if it is currently selling for $3.99 rather than $6.99. It isn't worth that much.
Alexander and his brothers are to carbon copy of other, better, stories. Once meeting certain characters, you know the outcome of the book, who will do what and who is actually someone else. Cosby tries to throw you off the trail of Wulfe's secret identity but it is so obvious it hurts.
The reason I originally snagged this book was because it sounded good. The back of the book is more interesting than the whole of it. In the description it says that Alexander's goal is to avenge his father's death so you almost assume against Nichola's family but he vengefulness is a general attitude towards the English, Longshanks in particular. It doesn't even seem like a major factor in the story. And the whole "making her a target for those who have no qualms shedding English blood" make it sound like a huge danger lurks around any corner, when in truth the danger only manifests itself a few chapters from the end and is obvious and doesn't make you scared one wit for her life.
Cosby was very new to me but I doubt I'll be reading anything by her again. I do plan on swapping this book if anyone will ever take it off my hands. I would recommend ignoring this book even if it is currently selling for $3.99 rather than $6.99. It isn't worth that much.
abandoned
April 9, 2010**Update**
I yield at page 75, as tired as my mind was yesterday and not in the mood to read anything but fluff I could go no further. Bad, unbelievably bad.
Sigh....
Over and above 1) this medieval Baron's sister called off her own engagement (!!) along with 2) her brother leaves by the *secret passage* that is described as dark with dying rushes fluttering about yet when she's kidnapped by the Scot the second he walks in the door there's a lit torch on the wall just-a-waiting for him. Finally on pages 8-9:
"A stranger stood near the far wall, his feet braced shoulder width apart, his muscled body drawn to its full height. His hair, black as midnight, disappeared behind broad well-muscled shoulders. A scar slashed down his left cheek; an aged line adding to his daunting presence.
Cobalt eyes, half shielded by long, thick black lashes studied her with unapologetic interest. Eyes of a man who'd seen too much devastation.
As she continued to stare at him, a scowl carved the man's strong-boned face, an expression as unwelcoming as it was dangerous."
Gawd, let's hope there's no no snarls, grunts or furrowed eyebrows in this one.
I yield at page 75, as tired as my mind was yesterday and not in the mood to read anything but fluff I could go no further. Bad, unbelievably bad.
Sigh....
Over and above 1) this medieval Baron's sister called off her own engagement (!!) along with 2) her brother leaves by the *secret passage* that is described as dark with dying rushes fluttering about yet when she's kidnapped by the Scot the second he walks in the door there's a lit torch on the wall just-a-waiting for him. Finally on pages 8-9:
"A stranger stood near the far wall, his feet braced shoulder width apart, his muscled body drawn to its full height. His hair, black as midnight, disappeared behind broad well-muscled shoulders. A scar slashed down his left cheek; an aged line adding to his daunting presence.
Cobalt eyes, half shielded by long, thick black lashes studied her with unapologetic interest. Eyes of a man who'd seen too much devastation.
As she continued to stare at him, a scowl carved the man's strong-boned face, an expression as unwelcoming as it was dangerous."
Gawd, let's hope there's no no snarls, grunts or furrowed eyebrows in this one.
July 2, 2010
Sometimes you just pick up a book and can't put it down and this book did just that to me. I have read many books with the plot Scottish Warrior for one reason or another comes in possession of an English Lady, both try and deny their attraction but somehow live happily ever after, and some authors manage to hold your attention better than others.
This book really held my attention and I really felt the chemistry between the characters. If you like a bit of romance in the Scottish Highlands then give this one a go.
I am looking forward to reading more from this author and have my fingers crossed she will be writing about our hero, Alexander's brothers.
This book really held my attention and I really felt the chemistry between the characters. If you like a bit of romance in the Scottish Highlands then give this one a go.
I am looking forward to reading more from this author and have my fingers crossed she will be writing about our hero, Alexander's brothers.
August 14, 2011
Lady Nichola Wescott is kidnapped by Alexander MacGruder in hopes that her wastrel brother will come up with much needed money to help his cause. But he does not expect the feelings he has for Nichola, and he must fight these feelings in order to get the ramsome money, in spite of many of his men wanting to see her dead.
Add a treacherous ex-fiance to the mix, and a good story ensues. Recommended.
Add a treacherous ex-fiance to the mix, and a good story ensues. Recommended.
March 27, 2016
Uninteresting medieval (?) story. Chemistry seemed rather forced. I can't recommend it. I didn't like it or dislike it. The book couldn't keep my interests long enough for me to form a strong opinion either way. I took a lot of breaks with this book.
April 20, 2011
I really enjoyed this book! I loved the sweet heroine and the conflicted brooding Scottish hero!
March 6, 2023
With her brother a drunk, a rake and perhaps even a murderer, the heroine is left to manages what remains of her family's fortune-which is nothing. She is penniless and it's only a matter of time before everyone body finds out. Then one night she in confronted by a stranger in her house. Thinking him to be a man whom her brother owes money to, she tells him her brother is not home. At which point, the hero makes a quick decision to kidnap the sister in place of his originally target. Thus, their tale of distrust, passion and forbidden desire begins. From their first meeting there is a strange and not entirely welcome lust between them. The heroine fights tooth and nail to be free of her captor and doesn't go quietly into her prison but there are times on the journey when her captor is tender and kind. In times of trouble she looks to him as the lesser of 2 evils because though he should be her enemy, he treats her with a level of respect. He vows not to hurt her or to allow harm to come to her while she's in his custody but what good is the word of an enemy? Of course, she doesn't trust him and at the first opportunity she tries to escape.
The hero in turn is frustrated and actually angry that the woman he's stolen doesn't willingly believe in him or acknowledge the strange desire between them. He knows in his mind that it's unreasonable for her to even like him considering what he's done but at the same time he's not used to his honor being questioned. Yet regardless of how angry he becomes with her, even after she knocks him out and steals his horse, he couldn't bring himself to remain so. When they arrive at the keep, his brothers are angry with him for failing to bring his original target- the Scottish advisor to the King- and instead brings back the sister. They believe him under some spell, that this wench has made him forget his loyalty to William Wallace and Scotland. But the hero may be confused regarding what is growing between himself and his prisoner yet that won't interfere with his loyalty. In a bid to stop himself from kissing her every time they come into contact, he stays away for 4 days. Only when she nearly starves herself while locked away in her room does he relent and bring her outside. From then on, they continue with their clumsy romance, neither party wanting to acknowledge what they are feeling. They fight constantly, and with every given chance, they're willing to believe the worst of the other. With their one minds and everyone around them screaming that any desire between them is wrong it's hard to justify what's in their hearts. When everything comes to a boiling point, they must finally decide to relinquish their hearts and their trust or everything will come to naught.
Though this is a discount book and a typically Historical romance, I appreciated the struggle the characters went through on their journey to a happy ending. It certainly wasn't easy and it certainly wasn't smooth but that's what made it real. First off, the heroine didn't immediately surrender or fall for her kidnapper. Yes, she found herself caving at times to her desire for him but from start to finish and every way, she fought him. She demanded her freedom, kept a level head in regards to all the promises he was making, not believing them just because he got incensed about it. Secondly, they did make serious attempts to keep away from each other. Their kisses and spur of the moment intimacy were always like a blip in thought, something they couldn't seem to stop from happening no matter how hard they tried to remain distant. I really enjoyed the tension between them and liked that it took them the whole book to finally succumb to what was seemingly inevitable. The characters themselves were lovely and each had their faults and virtues. The hero's habit of remaining emotionally unavailable and expecting more from the heroine than he was willing to give himself. The heroine with her habit of lashing out at the hero and blaming him for all the wrongs in her world and afterwards feeling guilty and apologizing. And I enjoyed the fact that the heroine had a plan and that everything was tied up neatly in the end with everything in its place. Over all it was a surprising book. 3.5 stars is what I would rate it but I put it down as 4 stars just cause I'm feeling generous.
The hero in turn is frustrated and actually angry that the woman he's stolen doesn't willingly believe in him or acknowledge the strange desire between them. He knows in his mind that it's unreasonable for her to even like him considering what he's done but at the same time he's not used to his honor being questioned. Yet regardless of how angry he becomes with her, even after she knocks him out and steals his horse, he couldn't bring himself to remain so. When they arrive at the keep, his brothers are angry with him for failing to bring his original target- the Scottish advisor to the King- and instead brings back the sister. They believe him under some spell, that this wench has made him forget his loyalty to William Wallace and Scotland. But the hero may be confused regarding what is growing between himself and his prisoner yet that won't interfere with his loyalty. In a bid to stop himself from kissing her every time they come into contact, he stays away for 4 days. Only when she nearly starves herself while locked away in her room does he relent and bring her outside. From then on, they continue with their clumsy romance, neither party wanting to acknowledge what they are feeling. They fight constantly, and with every given chance, they're willing to believe the worst of the other. With their one minds and everyone around them screaming that any desire between them is wrong it's hard to justify what's in their hearts. When everything comes to a boiling point, they must finally decide to relinquish their hearts and their trust or everything will come to naught.
Though this is a discount book and a typically Historical romance, I appreciated the struggle the characters went through on their journey to a happy ending. It certainly wasn't easy and it certainly wasn't smooth but that's what made it real. First off, the heroine didn't immediately surrender or fall for her kidnapper. Yes, she found herself caving at times to her desire for him but from start to finish and every way, she fought him. She demanded her freedom, kept a level head in regards to all the promises he was making, not believing them just because he got incensed about it. Secondly, they did make serious attempts to keep away from each other. Their kisses and spur of the moment intimacy were always like a blip in thought, something they couldn't seem to stop from happening no matter how hard they tried to remain distant. I really enjoyed the tension between them and liked that it took them the whole book to finally succumb to what was seemingly inevitable. The characters themselves were lovely and each had their faults and virtues. The hero's habit of remaining emotionally unavailable and expecting more from the heroine than he was willing to give himself. The heroine with her habit of lashing out at the hero and blaming him for all the wrongs in her world and afterwards feeling guilty and apologizing. And I enjoyed the fact that the heroine had a plan and that everything was tied up neatly in the end with everything in its place. Over all it was a surprising book. 3.5 stars is what I would rate it but I put it down as 4 stars just cause I'm feeling generous.
February 18, 2012
His Captive (MacGruders #1)
by Diana Cosby
3 of 5 stars
http://angelswithattitudebookreviews-...
With a wastrel brother and a treacherous former fiancé, Lady Nichola Westcott hardly expects the dangerously seductive Scot who kidnaps her to be a man of his word. Though Sir Alexander MacGruder promises not to hurt her, Nichola's only value is as a pawn to be ransomed.
Alexander's goal is to avenge his father's murder, not to become entangled with the enemy. But his desire to keep Nichola with him, in his home—in his bed—unwittingly make her a target for those who have no qualms about shedding English blood.
Now Nichola is trapped—by her powerful attraction to a man whose touch shakes her to the core. Unwilling and unable to resist each other, can Nichola and Alexander save a love that has enslaved them both?
My thoughts & Review
This was a cute fast read but not much substance would have like to see more of a plot. Its about a kidnapping of a Lords sister who they plan to ransom.The characters of this story are drawn to each other right from the beginning.Although both parties try to fight this attraction to each other as they are suppose to be enemies.I found myself laughing a lot throughout the book Nichola antics while being held prisoner we hilarious.I found the tender hear Ted Alexander to be endearing his love and attraction for Nicola was a surprise to see for a harden Highland warrior.Found Alexander to be a noble warrior in his decision on choosing between his family and Nicola turned out to be the right one even if it was a hard choice and tore his heart out in doing so.Look forward to catching up on the other books in the series.I new author added to a list of growing new comers for me.
by Diana Cosby
3 of 5 stars
http://angelswithattitudebookreviews-...
With a wastrel brother and a treacherous former fiancé, Lady Nichola Westcott hardly expects the dangerously seductive Scot who kidnaps her to be a man of his word. Though Sir Alexander MacGruder promises not to hurt her, Nichola's only value is as a pawn to be ransomed.
Alexander's goal is to avenge his father's murder, not to become entangled with the enemy. But his desire to keep Nichola with him, in his home—in his bed—unwittingly make her a target for those who have no qualms about shedding English blood.
Now Nichola is trapped—by her powerful attraction to a man whose touch shakes her to the core. Unwilling and unable to resist each other, can Nichola and Alexander save a love that has enslaved them both?
My thoughts & Review
This was a cute fast read but not much substance would have like to see more of a plot. Its about a kidnapping of a Lords sister who they plan to ransom.The characters of this story are drawn to each other right from the beginning.Although both parties try to fight this attraction to each other as they are suppose to be enemies.I found myself laughing a lot throughout the book Nichola antics while being held prisoner we hilarious.I found the tender hear Ted Alexander to be endearing his love and attraction for Nicola was a surprise to see for a harden Highland warrior.Found Alexander to be a noble warrior in his decision on choosing between his family and Nicola turned out to be the right one even if it was a hard choice and tore his heart out in doing so.Look forward to catching up on the other books in the series.I new author added to a list of growing new comers for me.
own-need-to-read
November 22, 2015First in series/trilogy
Free today for Kindle: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004THLPP4/r...
Strangers
With a wastrel brother and a treacherous former fiancé, Lady Nichola Westcott hardly expects the dangerously seductive Scot who kidnaps her to be a man of his word. Though Sir Alexander MacGruder promises not to hurt her, Nichola's only value is as a pawn to be ransomed.
Enemies
Alexander's goal is to avenge his father's murder, not to become entangled with the enemy. But his desire to keep Nichola with him, in his home--in his bed--unwittingly make her a target for those who have no qualms about shedding English blood.
Lovers
Now Nichola is trapped--by her powerful attraction to a man whose touch shakes her to the core. Unwilling and unable to resist each other, can Nichola and Alexander save a love that has enslaved them both?
August 6, 2013
I'm not much of a romance reader, but I needed something lighter between two novels about serial killers and a Stephen King novel, so this was it. I got it as a Nook Free Friday selection. The story kept me fairly interested. I thought the ending was a little weird, but, other than that, it was an entertaining story.
May 6, 2012
I thought this was a good book and the sexual tension was off the charts! I look forward to reading about the other brothers and am hoping Griffin will get a story too.
June 6, 2012
A little predictable, but what you would expect from an historical romance. A fun break from all the graduate school and professional reading I am doing.
July 28, 2014
An entertaining historical romance. I loved the whole series.
March 23, 2021
The majority of the plot is intriguing.
Until it stopped being intriguing and got annoying. I realize the lines between lust, romance, and love are very blurred in these books, but ffs.
Until it stopped being intriguing and got annoying. I realize the lines between lust, romance, and love are very blurred in these books, but ffs.
March 5, 2018
I read this book many years ago and it welcomed you into the adventure right away. A little bit of history, a wave of romance, independent women in conflict with the man they are drawn it by a hint of magic. The series is a must read!! The Brothers MacGruders and the search for justice and women of their heart. Intriguing events, spies, kid napping and many secrets!
March 20, 2021
A solid historical
I enjoyed this but Nicola was so infuriating at times.
Alexander kidnaps her to use her for ransom. He swears that she is safe with him but she has no reason to believe her abductor.
While they travel to his home they both realize that they are attracted to one another.
But will she be able to continue resisting their attraction.
I enjoyed this but Nicola was so infuriating at times.
Alexander kidnaps her to use her for ransom. He swears that she is safe with him but she has no reason to believe her abductor.
While they travel to his home they both realize that they are attracted to one another.
But will she be able to continue resisting their attraction.
June 30, 2019
Kidnapped for ransom instead of her brother, a young English woman becomes the captive of a Scotman desperate to save Scotland. As each mile brings them closer to his home, it also brings them together for a lifetime.
Very good Scottish romance!
Very good Scottish romance!
December 2, 2017
Good if you want an easy smutty read; I got the whole set super cheap as ebooks. Lots of it is ridiculous and predictable but I just can’t get enough of Scottish highlander romances.
January 8, 2018
Historical Romance
Learning a little of the Times between England & Scotland unrest as well as
Romances that could been at this time in History
Learning a little of the Times between England & Scotland unrest as well as
Romances that could been at this time in History
March 22, 2019
Great read
Love all the twist and turns the story takes and the surprise ending. Will read more very soon. I enjoyed.
Love all the twist and turns the story takes and the surprise ending. Will read more very soon. I enjoyed.
April 1, 2019
2.5 stars rounded up. The story while done to death could have been more enjoyable. It fell very flat and never rallied.
Read
March 24, 2020Wonderful easy read. Strong characters with intriguing plot.
December 8, 2020
not very good
March 14, 2017
This series has me craving the next book!
I took a chance on a new author and am delighted with her work! In this action packed adventure a young lady is dealing with an apparently deadbeat brother, shrinking castle coffers and being kidnapped for ransom. Full of intrigue and action this book explores Nicolas stubborn nature and her captor, Alexanders equally stubborn pride . For a lively and exciting romp through Scotland you definatly want to grab this series.
I took a chance on a new author and am delighted with her work! In this action packed adventure a young lady is dealing with an apparently deadbeat brother, shrinking castle coffers and being kidnapped for ransom. Full of intrigue and action this book explores Nicolas stubborn nature and her captor, Alexanders equally stubborn pride . For a lively and exciting romp through Scotland you definatly want to grab this series.
June 13, 2014
About the Story: Lady Nichola Westcott, the younger sibling of Griffin, Baron of Monceaux, saw much troubling her brother. He obviously had taken up with the wrong people--drinking, whoring and gambling away their funds until she feared they would be penniless. When she confronted him one evening, he left suddenly down the secret passage that hadn’t been used for years. What was she to do? She was already selling off priceless heirlooms of the family just to keep afloat.
“Over the years, since her parents’ horrible death, trying to save her brother from his self-destructive ways had shattered her beliefs of love and happiness she’d once held as a child. The betrayal of her fiancé severed any remaining belief.”
From bad to worse, she found herself kidnapped for ransom by a Scot who needed funds to help stage a war against England and King Edward. Would it be better to tell her captor that her brother had no money and could never pay a ransom or better to find a way to escape? Would they kill her outright if they knew?
Sir Alexander MacGruder, one of three brothers, was sent to England to kidnap Griffin but when he wasn’t at his castle as he was told, he kidnapped his sister. Alexander was honorable and would not harm Lady Nichola. He wasn’t even sure it was a good idea to capture the sister. But once he did, rather than feel animosity to her as she was English and his captive, why did he feel protective?
Lady Nichola knew she couldn’t trust men. Her ex-fiancé was one such man. She’d never let a man control her—EVER! She had to get away from Alexander; easier said than done. However, there would be a moment he’d let his guard down and then she’d run. But struggle she did with her feelings. How had he gotten so quickly under her skin?
“A tight ache built in her chest as she remembered leaning against his muscled frame, seeking support. And if she was honest, wanting more. To taste his kiss, to heel his hands gentle upon her skin. How with a mere touch, he could make her forget her fears and think only of her needs. She shivered. Thank Mary he’d spoke of her brother.”
My Thoughts: Diana Cosby writes with passion and seeming ease as the story moves effortlessly forward. The reader is drawn into a world where cruelty reigns. Can honor survive and prevail? Does hatred allow love to choose? Can trust be borne in mistrust? Ms. Cosby leads us to the answers.
Her poetic, descriptive words tantalize the senses.
“A sudden gust of wind, cool and thick with the scent of rain, blustered past. The field of grass, which was scattered with heather, bowed beneath its force.”
Even though Lady Nichola seems to be fragile, she has a strong inner shell, a sharp tongue when necessary, but finally a heart caught in a web of love. We see clearly we do not choose love, rather love chooses us.
I can well understand the popularity her series has and shall enjoy reading its continuation.
“Over the years, since her parents’ horrible death, trying to save her brother from his self-destructive ways had shattered her beliefs of love and happiness she’d once held as a child. The betrayal of her fiancé severed any remaining belief.”
From bad to worse, she found herself kidnapped for ransom by a Scot who needed funds to help stage a war against England and King Edward. Would it be better to tell her captor that her brother had no money and could never pay a ransom or better to find a way to escape? Would they kill her outright if they knew?
Sir Alexander MacGruder, one of three brothers, was sent to England to kidnap Griffin but when he wasn’t at his castle as he was told, he kidnapped his sister. Alexander was honorable and would not harm Lady Nichola. He wasn’t even sure it was a good idea to capture the sister. But once he did, rather than feel animosity to her as she was English and his captive, why did he feel protective?
Lady Nichola knew she couldn’t trust men. Her ex-fiancé was one such man. She’d never let a man control her—EVER! She had to get away from Alexander; easier said than done. However, there would be a moment he’d let his guard down and then she’d run. But struggle she did with her feelings. How had he gotten so quickly under her skin?
“A tight ache built in her chest as she remembered leaning against his muscled frame, seeking support. And if she was honest, wanting more. To taste his kiss, to heel his hands gentle upon her skin. How with a mere touch, he could make her forget her fears and think only of her needs. She shivered. Thank Mary he’d spoke of her brother.”
My Thoughts: Diana Cosby writes with passion and seeming ease as the story moves effortlessly forward. The reader is drawn into a world where cruelty reigns. Can honor survive and prevail? Does hatred allow love to choose? Can trust be borne in mistrust? Ms. Cosby leads us to the answers.
Her poetic, descriptive words tantalize the senses.
“A sudden gust of wind, cool and thick with the scent of rain, blustered past. The field of grass, which was scattered with heather, bowed beneath its force.”
Even though Lady Nichola seems to be fragile, she has a strong inner shell, a sharp tongue when necessary, but finally a heart caught in a web of love. We see clearly we do not choose love, rather love chooses us.
I can well understand the popularity her series has and shall enjoy reading its continuation.
January 21, 2012
[3.5 STARS]
I would have rated it a 4STARS if only I didn't have trouble concentrating on the story so harshly almost as if I'm forcing myself to finish it. There is nothing wrong with the writing--actually--I enjoyed the author's writing quite much. It was a fast and good pace reading. However, I sometimes feel myself reading too much "telling" and not enough "actions" to convince the development of the story. Eventually, it came to the point of comparing works and similar stories with other authors that I love dearly and "His Captive" just didn't outrank it. I am still debating rather or not to continue the series.
Another bad point to this story was half of the entire book was traveling from point A to point B--which isn't bad in some cases. And I actually enjoyed it fairly quite well since you get to see the development of the two main leads. And then the other half came and it's almost as if the author didn't have enough room to relate the delicious details therefore it's best to tell it straightly without any good commitment on the actions to go along with it. Especially when the two main characters found out that they love each other--that part just didn't fit correctly. There was no special bonding or prior reasons to force their minds to accept that what they're feeling is love and not lust.
Nonetheless--I did enjoy the relationships of the brothers. Deliciously written out that I might just consider reading the continuation of the series to see how each brothers end up. ^^
I would have rated it a 4STARS if only I didn't have trouble concentrating on the story so harshly almost as if I'm forcing myself to finish it. There is nothing wrong with the writing--actually--I enjoyed the author's writing quite much. It was a fast and good pace reading. However, I sometimes feel myself reading too much "telling" and not enough "actions" to convince the development of the story. Eventually, it came to the point of comparing works and similar stories with other authors that I love dearly and "His Captive" just didn't outrank it. I am still debating rather or not to continue the series.
Another bad point to this story was half of the entire book was traveling from point A to point B--which isn't bad in some cases. And I actually enjoyed it fairly quite well since you get to see the development of the two main leads. And then the other half came and it's almost as if the author didn't have enough room to relate the delicious details therefore it's best to tell it straightly without any good commitment on the actions to go along with it. Especially when the two main characters found out that they love each other--that part just didn't fit correctly. There was no special bonding or prior reasons to force their minds to accept that what they're feeling is love and not lust.
Nonetheless--I did enjoy the relationships of the brothers. Deliciously written out that I might just consider reading the continuation of the series to see how each brothers end up. ^^
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