Laird of Steel

The Warrior Lairds of Rivenloch #1

by Glynnis Campbell

A Highland maidservant's matchmaking efforts on her laird's behalf go awry in this friends-to-lovers medieval romance.

“Grim Gellir” Cameliard of Rivenloch lives for glory on the tournament field, and he may be the greatest warrior in all Scotland. As the son of a laird, he assumes his bride will be chosen for him, and he doesn’t expect it to be a love match. But when the king threatens to wed him to a Sassenach, he is forced to question his loyalty and desperate to find a Scottish wife.

Merraid of Darragh, a spirited sword-wielding maidservant from Gellir’s past, can’t bear to see her childhood hero doomed to a loveless marriage, so she intercedes as his matchmaker. When none of the prospects seem worthy of him, she unwittingly finds herself swept up in a friends-to-lovers romance. And when her passions ensnare her in a dangerous royal conflict, Gellir is forced to choose between his allegiance and his heart as he faces the one intrepid warrior he may not be able to conquer.

Genres: Historical, Historical Romance, Romance, Amazon, Fiction, Friends To Lovers, Scotland

381 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 2, 2023

About the author

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GLYNNIS CAMPBELL is a USA Today bestselling author of swashbuckling "medieval action-adventure romances," mostly set in Scotland, and a charter member of The Jewels of Historical Romance--12 internationally beloved authors. She has over two dozen books published in eight languages. Glynnis once rocked in an all-girl band called The Pinups on CBS Records, did voiceovers for the MTV animated series, "The Maxx," Diablo and Starcraft videogames, and Star Wars audio adventures, and is married to a rock star. She loves to transport readers to a place where the bold heroes have endearing flaws, the women are stronger than they look, the land is lush and untamed, and chivalry is alive and well!

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BOOK LIST

The Warrior Maids of Rivenloch
The Shipwreck
A Yuletide Kiss
Lady Danger
Captive Heart
Knight's Prize
A Rivenloch Christmas

The Warrior Daughters of Rivenloch
The Storming
Bride of Fire
Bride of Ice
Bride of Mist
My Champion
My Warrior
My Hero

The Warrior Lairds of Rivenloch
Laird of Steel
Laird of Flint

Medieval Outlaws
The Reiver
Danger's Kiss
Passion's Exile
Desire's Ransom

Scottish Lasses
The Outcast
MacFarland's Lass
MacAdam's Lass
MacKenzie's Lass

California Legends
The Stowaway
Native Gold
Native Wolf
Native Hawk

Reviews

[Ev · Rating 5 out of 5]

***I received this as an ARC to read and review, should I wish to. The opinions in this review are strictly my own, and are given willingly.***

Another wonderful story of the Rivenloch Clan series. The author has created a world in Scotland filled with members of a clan and each contains characters of family members. In this one we meet Gillir and Merriad. The main secondary characters are clan members. To past readers, it is catching up with old friends. For new readers it is meeting and learning some past history of the family. It is a balanced blend. This story has lots of action and the love story has a lot of humor as the friends realize the love for the other. As with the entire series, the reader learns of this clan filled with fierce warrior women and the honorable men who value them for their intelligence and abilities. Storytelling at it's best from MS Campbell! The plot it tightly woven and the characters very likeable, even the ones who appear briefly. A great addition to the series!

[Suzette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Readers will be gloriously entertained reading this story. Mirread is a wonderfully entertaining character. Coupled with her handsome warrior Gellir they get up to all kinds of mischief. These two fight their feelings for each other in a way that will make you laugh. The author does a magnificent job of keeping the plot moving a great pace as the reader turns the pages. This is definitely a story you will to add to your shelf and read more than once.

[Michelle the Romance Witch · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this story and was thrilled to jump back into the world of Rivenloch and the crazy folks that call it home. Gellir and Merraid were sweet, hilarious, frustrating and ultimately perfect to watch fall in love. Dying for the next one!

[Barbee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book: Laird of Steel
Author: Glynnis Campbell
Series: The Warrior Lairds of Rivenloch, Book 1
Book Length: 371
Publisher: Glynnis Campbell
Overall Rating: 5 Stars
Blog Rating: 5 Saltire Flags

Scotland, 1160

In this book it centers on Sir Gellir Cameliard of Rivenloch, and maid servant Merraid of Darragh. Merraid had been in love since she was 15 years old. Then he had been her champion and done anything to please him but it wasn’t for his expert fighting skills, or his swoon worthy good looks but it was for his honor and caring for others no matter if they were a high ranking nobleman or low level servant. She was heartbroken when he left but as soon as he left his cousin Lady Feiyan was who had married Laird Dougal mac Dougal started training her as warrior.

So four years later Gellir returns only to meet bridal candidates or else his King might force him to marry an English wife. At first he didn’t care as it was like a business arrangement. Then he sees Merraid and his mouth drops, not recognizing the most gorgeous creature he ever set his eyes on. He is surprised it is Merraid the maidservant and is instantly attracted to her. Merraid tried to feign that she no longer cared but that didn’t last long. She also decided to be a good friend and help him pick a wife that would be worthy of him.

Of course Gellir found something wrong with every candidate and knew his feeling for Merraid were growing. The feeling was very mutual but they both knew due to their class difference they could never be more than friends. Yet every time a man was near Merraid he wanted to lop their head off with his sword!

Then a woman named Lady Carenza was perfect for him and everyone loved her even Merraid liked her. As much as she did not want too! Except this woman was miserable always weeping and obviously didn’t want this union any more than Gellir did. Soon she disappears but Gellir takes the blame which will make his an outcast and ruin his reputation. Yet Merraid is determined to save the man she loves but can never have.

Will Gellir and Merraid ever admit their true feelings for each other? Do the nobleman and the maidservant have a chance at love and happiness? Shall Gellir have a loveless arranged marriage never having true love like his Rivenloch clansmen? Read and find out in this phenomenal read that this reader absolutely loved!

Bestselling author Glynnis Campbell pens another breathtaking tale that I absolutely loved. It’s a friends to lovers romance which was beautifully written. Plus if you are like me and have read her other Rivenloch books it is also like a beloved family reunion too. As readers will recognize some familiar characters from previous books. I absolutely loved that too, as always I also find myself giggling, laughing and crying whenever I read a Glynnis Campbell novel! It’s a bit like heaven that sweeps me away!

A book readers definitely do not want to miss. As I have been reading this author since her debut book and her books are so unique and special. I can’t wait to read the next book in this captivating series! I absolutely and unequivocally highly recommend this book!

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[Natward1 · Rating 1 out of 5]

Didn’t finish after chapter 2. I just know what I want in a romance and I can tell quickly if I won’t like it. So it started out fine. I was getting into it. But it took a sharp nose dive for me when Gellir returned and meets m again 4 years later.

So Gellir has been back for all of like an hour, talking to everyone about all of the tournaments he’s won the past few years after they all asked him about it. He’s become the best fighter, nobody can beat him. This makes Merraid mad that he’s talking about his tournament wins and she walks up to him and immediately challenges him to a fight. This really took me out of the story. It felt so forced. Like the author was way too eager to have Merraid show Gellir just how strong she’d become, but couldn’t think of a more natural, organic way to do it. It just felt so clunky and made Merraid look kind of desperate.

Also, small spoiler alert but Merraid wins. Against Gellir. This small girl defeats this big strong literal army commander who is older than her. After the fight Gellir kind of tells everyone that he let her win, that he didn’t use his full force on her of course, but then that just makes Merrick look even dumber that she thinks she actually won. I really was just turned off by this whole scene. The author makes sure to have Gellir explain in detail about what she wants us to think about Merrick and this scene from his perspective (another thing I hate-when authors have their characters explain exactly what to take away from situations instead of just letting us come to our own conclusions) which is that Gellir is impressed that Merrick wasn’t afraid to go up against him. Which that would be fine if it all just happened way more naturally so she didn’t look like she was trying too hard. She looked Like a kid challenging her father while he humors her. And the kid thinks they actually won but everyone else is in on the joke.

Also, for me personally, I wouldn’t want to think I was able to beat my man in a fight haha. That’s just personal preference but I would want my man to be stronger than me and better than me at combat.

Also I hate insta lust. Gellir was lusting over Merrick and her extreme hotness the whole time he’s fighting her. It’s just not my thing. I want something different and unique. I don’t want looks to be the driving force in a romance because that’s how the majority of romance novels do it and I want something more challenging. I want more from a book, not just the obvious. I don’t like when the looks are so over emphasized by the author and when they are described the same way as in every other romance novel. And I don’t like when the guy has a bulge for the girl within the first 30 pages, as was the case here. It just feels too rushed to me.

[Rozzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Merraid of Darragh was fifteen years old, she fell in love with Gellir Cameliard of Rivenloch also known to all as “Grim Gellir”. To Merraid Gellir was the champion of her heart even though he was leaving her by going home. Luckily, Gellir entrusts a special gift to his cousin to give to Merraid his protection. So Merraid is taught how to defend herself by being taught to fight with weapons, how to read, write and even do sums. Gellir comes back four years later, when Merraid is nineteen; he is amazed at how much she has changed from a lovestruck girl to a beautiful strong intelligent woman. Of course, the only reason Gellir is back because he must find a wife quickly before the king betroths him to an Englishwoman. So Merraid decides to help him find the perfect woman to be his wife by wooing a woman chosen by his own brother. Merraid has always loved Gellir so helps him woo his betrothed falling more and more in love with him. So even if it isn’t Merraid, Gellir will marry the right woman that isn’t her.
Another fabulous swashbuckling highland romance that is not only humorous but really a fantastic read! The story is even a type of reverse Cyrano because the handsome guy is trying to woo his betrothed, but the Cyrano is also a beauty all her own just is not noticed because she isn’t of the same class as the hero. Just because the book has some of the same elements as Cyrano doesn’t mean it is a word for word account of that tale, because it has a charm and different take all on its own! Merraid the spirited feisty heroine plays Cyrano that wields weapons yet can write such moving poetry that even I was moved by it. I was beginning to think there was something wrong with Gellir’s betrothed, because even I was falling for it and him or maybe I was being romanticized by Merraid too. Gellir knew how to fight but when it came to love he just didn’t know how to tell his betrothed, much less Merraid what was in heart. So, at times I was thinking Gellir just isn’t Merraid’s equal but he’s still okay in my book. Glynnis Campbell truly has written a wonderful story teeming with colorful unforgettable characters, beautiful landscapes and over-all just a feel-good novel that everyone will not only cheer for but love!

[Kaitlyn Walas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Laird of Steel is a versatile and engaging book that offers readers a captivating literary experience. Written by Glynnis Campbell, this Medieval Historical Romance novel explores Medieval Scotland in a compelling and thought-provoking manner.

One of the strengths of Campbell's writing is the vividness with which the story unfolds. The descriptive prose effortlessly transports readers to Scotland, allowing them to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and emotions of the narrative. The author's attention to detail adds depth and authenticity to the world they have created, making it easy for readers to visualize and connect with the story on a deeper level.

The characters in Laird of Steel are multi-dimensional and well-developed, each with their own unique traits, strengths, and flaws. The author skillfully explores their inner struggles, desires, and growth, creating relatable and dynamic individuals that readers can invest in. Whether it's the protagonist's journey of self-discovery, the complex relationships between the characters, or the intriguing supporting cast, the author ensures that every character serves a purpose within the overarching narrative.

The pacing of the book is well-managed, with a careful balance of tension and resolution. The plot unfolds in a manner that keeps readers engaged and eager to turn the pages. Twists and turns are expertly woven into the story, adding intrigue and suspense, while the author's ability to build and release tension at strategic moments keeps the momentum going throughout.

In conclusion, Laird of Steel by Glynnis Campbell is a versatile and engaging novel that captivates readers from beginning to end. With its excellent prose, well-developed characters, and skillful pacing, this book is sure to appeal to a wide range of readers. Whether you are a fan of romance or simply enjoy a compelling and thought-provoking story, Laird of Steel offers a satisfying literary experience that will leave you wanting more. Campbell's talent for storytelling shines through, making this a recommended read for anyone seeking a versatile and immersive book.

[Linda · Rating 2 out of 5]

**Weak start to the series**

I've read the Warrior Maids and Warrior Daughters series several times and loved them all. But this is my first time dabbling in the Warrior Lairds, and I for one was looking forward to entries with men being the leads, just for the sake of changing things up a bit. Plus, it almost feels like a sort of sequel to the last entry of the Warrior Daughter series, which happens to be my favorite.

What I expected in general laid itself out perfectly fine, like Campbell's writing style, the characters, the dialogue, and pace, etc. I think Glynnis does a remarkable job bringing her characters to life, whether it's by describing their looks and mannerisms, or having them interact together in rather delightful conversations. Those were all well-done and I had no complaints about any of that.

But where this entry failed me is the general premise. Granted, I'm not really into friends-to-lovers tropes, so I admit that may have played a mild role in tainting my appreciation. But even so, I still didn't find the story itself to be all that compelling. I didn't feel the seriousness of anything, didn't find myself being pressed by any memorable drama.

I just found myself too often wishing things had gone in different directions to help me care a bit more. Even when I KNOW it will inevitably be a love story between Gellir and Merraid, that reality is too painfully obvious because nothing truly felt threatening to their inevitable fate. I prefer much more angst than what this delivered, a bit more of a ragged journey so love feels more earned. That didn't really happen here.

So while this entry rated pretty low for me, I'm not at all discouraged to continue. I still look forward to finishing this series and to see if any of them have what it takes to best the Maids and Daughters from yesteryear.

[Naomi Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laird of Steel by Glynnis Cambell - With his heart laid bare and his cock as a compass Hew was constantly wandering into dangerous quarters. Gellir had to protect him. He had to protect the clan. There was only one thing to do. One thing that would salvage Lady Carranza's honor and keep the king's eye off of Hew. Geller would take the blame for Carenza's desertion. He had to claim that it was his idea to call off the wedding. He'd say he had rejected her and that was why she would run away. It wasn't a very convincing story… what man in his right mind would turn away a woman as beautiful and charming as Lady Carenza. But he was Grimm Gellir. He could speak the lie with a grave face especially considering what was at stake. But the situation was far worse than that. Hew was defying the king. What did he think would happen when King Malcolm found out Carenza was a runaway bride and that Hugh helped deliver her to another man? Glynnis weaves together friendship, clan politics, romance and chivalry with an awesome cast of characters in a tale that will keep you captive. I am looking forward to the next installment in the series.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

From their very first meeting, when “Grim Gellir” Cameliard of Rivenloch came to the rescue of an injured Merraid of Darragh, keeping her from further harm, she knew she loved him. But the disparity in their ranks, he a knight and she a lowly servant, made any hope of an HEA for them an impossibility. Still, Merraid is determined to assist Gellir’s quest for a suitable bride, even if it can’t be her. When his chosen bride reveals an awful secret to Merraid, Gellir does the honorable thing to help everyone save face. And Merraid, who has been trained as a warrior, sets out to save him. This is a worthy and delightful successor to the “Warrior Maids of Rivenloch” series, updating the reader on the next generation of warriors. Though it is a complete story that can be read as a stand-alone, I highly recommend the entire series, as they are all well written, with fully fleshed out characters and interesting and unusual plots. This book was provided by the author without any requirement for a review, positive or otherwise. All opinions are 100% my own.

[Carole Burant · Rating 5 out of 5]

My heart absolutely ached for Gellir and Merraid! He is a renowned Knight and she is only a maidservant but she will do everything in her power to be a good friend to him even though her heart wants much more. The King has decreed that Gellir marry an English lady and the hunt is on for the perfect one for him, even though it's the last thing he wants.

Merraid has learned how to be a warrior and has a brilliant mind and although she loves Gellir, she knows a future for them is impossible. I had to giggle at all the ladies brought forth for Gellir's appraisal and all the faults found with them. When Gellir is in danger of ruining his future, Merraid is there to make sure he doesn't....she truly is a brave lass, even facing the King!!

Glynnis Campbell is an author you can always rely on to give you hours of reading pleasure and you just know her characters will be strong and brave.

[Sahar's Honest Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Laird of Steel and a Maid of Iron

Two people are made for one another; however, he is a laird's son, and she is a maidservant. Merraid is no ordinary servant; she wields a sword and fights like a knight. She is a woman of strength and courage. When the man she loves needs her, she answers the call even when it causes her sorrow. She puts her life in peril to save his even though she has no hope he can be hers.

This is a delightful story, full of romance and adventure. My favorite part is the strength of the women. They might be used as pawns, as there is no escaping that throughout history, but the men are pawns in the hands of kings, too, just as Gellir is in this story. I love that the women are fighters, and they play a huge part in the fabric of the story. I look forward to the magic spell Glynnis Campbell will weave in her next story. It is sure to be delightful.

[Cherie S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Knights, Tournaments, Friends, Family. and Honor:
A fun plot with lots of thrills, chills, heat and more. 
Wonderful characters that held my interest and had me at times gripping the pages and my tummy clenching with many terrifying situations.
I truly enjoyed this story and would look forward to reading the rest of the series.
This is one heck of a good story that had me laughing out loud with all the shenanigans with the prospected brides and the romance that grew between Grim and Merraid was like a roller coaster ride with all of its ups and downs, twists and turns.
Passion level medium to high which made this book worth the excellent rating.

[Linda Oleniuk · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book !
Strong women with defined personalities dominate these stories. The characters are believable and fleshed out.
From the beginning to the end I was entranced.

This book has it all , historical detail regarding taboos, marriage outside of your station, sexualized gender roles and male dominance however these rules were broken by the primary character.

The end is a real cliffhanger something I don’t have many patience for.
Come on Glynnis finish the next book quickly, please!

[Shirley Hamlod · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another enjoyable tale by this author. If you enjoyed the stories of the Maids of Rivenloch then you will enjoy tales of their sons. In this first book, Gellir, son of Deidre, is the best knight of his time. He must wed well and wed where he is told. Merraid is a maid at his sister’s castle who has developed feelings for Gellir but he is determined to do his duty. This is the story of how many obstacles are put in the path of true love. A great story with great characters. It is nice to meet the Maids again.

[Jeffrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

THIS NOVEL TAKES PLACE IN MEDIVAL SCOTLAND. THE 2 MAIN CHARACTERS ARE GILLIR AND MERRIAD. GILLAR IS A MAN'S MAN AND MERRIAD IS LOVELY AND WITTY. THESE 2 START OUT AS ENEMIES AND BECOME ROMANTIC PARTNERS.

THE WRITING IS SUCH THAT YOU CAN EASILY FORM A MENTAL IMAGE OF WHAT IS HAPPENING IN THE BOOK.

I WOULD SUGGEST STARTING THIS BOOK IN THE EARLY AFTERNOON TO READ BECAUSE IF YOU START LATE AT NIGHT, YOU WON'T WANT TO PUT IT DOWN. THE BOOK IS ANOTHER GREAT TALE WITH BRAVE SCOTTISH LADS AND LOVELY LASSES.

[Susan Baez Randleman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laird of Steel
Glyniss Campbell

This was a wonderful read. Getting to know Gellar and Merriad further from our little snippet in previous story. It was a thoroughly enjoyable read. I sat up very late reading! I couldn’t find a spot to put down that wasn’t captivating. Definitely an amazing read! Looking forward to the next Warrior Lairds!

[Ann Gonzalez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Entertaining throughout

This was a very easy read. Great characters, fast paced, entertaining throughout, love, passion, and quite a few laughs. Glynnis is very talented and there is rarely a dull moment. This book makes we want to read The Warrior Maids of Rivenloch again and read the stories of their daughters. I look forward to more books in the series.

[Mary Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

From maid to friend and so much more

This was a great historical romance of a young maiden who wad rescued by a young knight. Four years later they became great friends when he came to find a wife before the king found him one. So much under currents, excitement and a lot of love. It's s terrific read.

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

A knight, a maiden, and a beautiful love story - my favorite type of romance. I loved watching Gellir and Merraid’s love bloom as they tried to help each other find happiness. Wonderfully written, this is a great beginning for a new series.

[Nora Griswold · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Rivenloch!!!

This was a return to Rivenloch and a new generation continues! Such a story of deep love and devotion for each other with despair of being together! Cannot wait for next book!

[Cindy Bolen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best Flynn's Campbell book yet.

I love the idea of a warrior maid servant in forbidden love with a future laird of the clan of Rivenloch. She fell in love with him when she was fifteen years old. It is an amazing friends to lovers romance. I recommend this book.

[Sandy Dickinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous read!

Fabulous tale cannot wait to read the next one. You are the best at what you do. Thank you for your talent!!

[Jo-Anne Crook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Glynnis has knocked it out of the ball park yet again, it was so good to hear about the Rivenloch family again,it had everything in it
literally could not put it down

[Marlene Sanders · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely stellar book.

A very unusual book written with humor with compassion with lightness and love and a whole lot of passion. Make sure you read it

[Sylvia Mcclure · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laird of Steel

I thought bring in new blood was a great idea ,what a good addition.I've always enjoyed this family.
Looking forward to the next book.

[Josee A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful

I love Medieval Scottish stories and Glenn is writes some of the best. I loved this book and can't wait for the next one to come out.

[Deborah Dumm · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. I recommend this series.

[Nancy Werner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!!

This is an awesome read of Merraid and Gellir's story will keep you engross until the end. The storyline is fantastic along with great characters.

[Monica Yeavello · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was so fun to dive back into the Rivenloch family complete with lairds, castles, swords, tournaments and strong FCs.