The Scottish Witch

The Chattan Curse #2

by Cathy Maxwell

New York Times bestselling author Cathy Maxwell continues her most powerful series with the latest novel about the Chattan Curse

Every woman has her dreams
Portia Maclean believes she is beyond love and marriage. Then one moonlit night, while attempting a daring masquerade in a desperate bid to protect her family, she finds herself swept off her feet by a powerful stranger. His very touch makes her long for much more. But what will he do once he discovers she has betrayed him?

Every man has his demons
Harry Chattan is fighting for his family-their honor and their lives. For two hundred years the Chattan men have been destroyed by love and now he's come to Scotland on the hunt for a witch who can break the legend's curse. Instead he finds himself bewitched by the tantalizing Portia. Determined to right legendary wrongs, Harry has vowed to fight the demons that torture him.
But will that battle destroy her as well?

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Audiobook, Historical Fiction, Scotland, Regency

384 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published January 1, 2012

About the author

CATHY MAXWELL spends hours in front of her computer pondering the question, "Why do people fall in love?" It remains for her the mystery of life and the secret to happiness.

She lives in the Austin, TX area where she is having the time of her life.

Visit her on Instagram, Twitter, FB, and TikTok at maxwellcathy (Yes, some other Cathy Maxwell nabbed the handle. However, she does own www.cathymaxwell.com and she'd love for you to swing by.)

Reviews

[Madison Warner Fairbanks · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Scottish Witch by Cathy Maxwell

A curse, a witch and a book of spells. And a cat. Maybe.
Historical romance set in Scotland. 2nd book in the Chattan Curse series. It can be read as a stand-alone romance.
Harry Chattan believes his family is cursed so he goes in search of a witch to remove it. Portia overhears the amount of money that is being offered to a witch that can remove a curse and after finding a book of spells, decides to try her hand at deceit.

First, historical romance is not my favorite genre. So saying that, there were several things that pissed me off in this book. Her deceit and not much guilt at taking money for it, but more the need for her to do that in the first place. No money left in the household because the women are supported by family, paying rent to a landlord that isn’t keeping the property up, and having to host properly simply because they are of a certain class.
Soapbox...
It also made me mad that he “forcefully” had to have her (yep, sex) with no foreplay whatsoever, and she still liked it? Ugh. More than once!
A relationship starts, and it does have a happy ending and a surprising twist that was interesting to the curse.
Overall an entertaining romance, probably best tho if you like the genre. For me, I couldn’t really like Harry after his forcefulness.

3.5

[UniquelyMoi ~ BlithelyBookish · Rating 5 out of 5]

This second book in Cathy Maxwell’s The Chattan Curse series – or is it a trilogy? – is more than just a romance novel, it's a wonderful love story that, once I started, I couldn't put down.

From the Cover:

Every woman has her dreams

Portia Maclean believes she is beyond love and marriage. Then one moonlit night, while attempting a daring masquerade in a desperate bid to protect her family, she finds herself swept off her feet by a powerful stranger. His very touch makes her long for much more. But what will he do once he discovers she has betrayed him?

Every man has his demons

Harry Chattan is fighting for his family-their honor and their lives. For two hundred years the Chattan men have been destroyed by love and now he's come to Scotland on the hunt for a witch who can break the legend's curse. Instead he finds himself bewitched by the tantalizing Portia. Determined to right legendary wrongs, Harry has vowed to fight the demons that torture him.

But will that battle destroy her as well?

Oh, how I loved this book! Given what we learned of Harry in Lyon’s Bride, I was pretty sure his story would be amazing, and I was right! That said, I had also worried that it would be dark – darker than I like to read – but thankfully, it wasn’t! Harry overcame most of his demons early on, and then resolved the things that were within his power to resolve, and left the rest in Fate's hands.

My favorite thing about these books is the profound message of love being the most important thing, for without it, nothing else matters. One by one this generation of Chattans are falling victim to the Chattan Curse, but refuse to give up, refuse to turn their backs on true love, no matter the cost. And. I. LOVE. That!!!!!

Up next is Margaret’s story. She’s Neal and Harry’s sister, and will not stand by while a bitter old witch destroys her family. She’s the Chattan’s last hope to break the curse, and I can’t wait to read all about how she does it in The Devil's Heart!!

The bottom line: The Scottish Witch is such a feel good story. Filled with hope, inspiration, romance and steamy goodness, it was everything I had hoped for, and more! Harry and Portia are amazing together, perfect for one another, and I love their happily ever after!

My thanks to Avon Books for providing me with a copy of this wonderful book in exchange for an honest review.

[SOS Aloha · Rating 5 out of 5]

The course of true love never did run smooth - A Midsummer Night's Dream, Act 1, Scene 2

Cathy Maxwell's THE SCOTTISH WITCH is Book Two in the Chattan Curse series. The series focuses on a 17th century curse cast by a Scottish witch, Finella, on the Chattan family,

When a Chattan male falls in love,
strike his heart with fire from Above.

Book 1, LYON'S BRIDE, introduces us to the Chattan Family in the Regency Era - Neal, Harry, and Margaret. Neal, Lord Lyon, wants children, so he seeks a bride he cannot love. He falls in love with his matchmaker and falls ill from the curse. Inspired by his brother's love, Harry sets out to save his brother in Book 2, THE SCOTTISH WITCH.

Hear my soul speak. Of the very instant that I saw you, Did my heart fly at your service - The Tempest, Act 3, Scene 1

Maxwell provides readers new to the series with another prologue (different from LYON'S BRIDE) to join Harry in his desperate mission. He travels to Scotland to search for a witch to reverse the curse, leading him to Portia Maclean. Like Harry, Portia has Scottish blood but lived in England. Like Harry, she came to Scotland to save her family. Like Harry, she feels romantic love has no room in her heart. When they first meet, with Portia in disguise as a witch, they feel a mutual bond. In their second meeting, at the Christmas assembly, they feel a mutual attraction. As they engage in a passionate affair, they inadvertently open their hearts to the other ... but also to the curse. They feel Finella's wrath surrounding them .... but they find an unexpected ally.

Doubt that the stars are fire, Doubt that the sun doth move his aides, Doubt truth to be a liar, But never doubt I love - Hamlet, Act 2, Scene 2

Maxwell steps outside the Regency Ballroom with the "paranormal elements" akin to Shakespeare's MacBeth. I applaud her for settingTHE SCOTTISH WITCH in Glenfinnan - oh, the symbolism! Glenfinnan is where Bonnie Prince Charlie returned to Scotland to reclaim the throne ... and Glenfinnan is where Colonel Harry Chattan returns to his ancestor's crime to reclaim his brother's life. The Glenfinnan Viaduct delivered Harry Potter aboard Hogwart's Express to his destiny ... and Glenfinnan delivers Harry to his destiny with Portia. I have walked through Glenfinnan, traveled over the viaduct, and scoured the Highlands in search of crumbling castles - Maxwell's storytelling took me back to this beloved vacation.

A heart to love, and in that heart, Courage, to make's love known - MacBeth, Act 2, Scene 3

Maxwell is known for her heartfelt characters and she delivers in THE SCOTTISH WITCH. Readers will sympathize with sweet sisters Portia and Minera; hiss at the selfish gentry Lady Maclean and Lady Emma; and cheer for the hapless dog loving General. Harry is the pièce de résistance with his transformation from the alcoholic womanizer to the desperate brother begging for Neal's life - a scene that I will never forget. Or as a lovestuck rogue bursting through the church door to ... oh, you have to read the book yourself. I also applaud Maxwell for subtly addressing social issues of addiction, loneliness, and post traumatic stress of war weary veterans.

Thank you, Cathy, for reminding us that love is everlasting!

I received a print copy of THE SCOTTISH WITCH from Avon for this review.

[Mei · Rating 3 out of 5]

Better than the first one, but still...
Maybe these are older books, but I found them all to simplicistic...

[Angelc · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such exactly what many readers are looking for when it comes to historical romance. It's a page turner with not just a great romance, but also a mystery, and a supernatural element as well. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough as I learned more about the curse. The chemistry between the two leads was fantastic! At times it felt like it was the curse that had the sparks flying, but I think it was just the curse that brought them together, and the sparks they made all on their own.

I am so curious to go back and read the first book in this series now, because I became so caught up with the characters. I never felt like I was missing anything by not reading the first book though. This one can definitely stand on its own. However, there are definitely cliffhangers at the end of the story, so the third book is a must-read!

Owl, the cat, is such a great addition to the story, but you will have to read the books to find out why. Portia is a fantastic heroine, and I can't say enough how much I loved that she wore glasses. Even when her mother wanted her to stop wearing them to 'improve' her appearance, she didn't listen. Harry may be stubborn and indomitable at first, but he does stand up for those he loves, and doesn't waver in his loyalty. The supporting characters are equally well-drawn and really round out the story.

Overall, this is a wonderful historical romance, with lots of otherworldly charm and mystery, too. I can't wait to read the other books in the series!


book sent by publisher in exchange for an honest review

reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com

[Caz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review from 2014

A for narration / B- for content.

At the end of Lyon’s Bride, Harry Chattan, a somewhat cynical and bitter former Cavalry officer, had some serious thinking to do and obstacles to overcome. By the time we meet him again, he’s firmly back-in-the-saddle, so to speak, and hunting desperately for a way to break the curse and restore his brother to health. His search takes him to Glenfinnan in Scotland, where he rather foolishly announces that he’s looking for a witch and offers a substantial financial reward to any who can help him. One of those who decides to do so is Portia Maclean who arranges to meet him under cover of darkness and induces him to believe that she is Fenella Macnachtan.

Not only is Portia not Fenella, she’s not a witch either. She, her younger sister, Minnie, and their mother have had to leave London in order to live more cheaply at Camber Hall, a somewhat neglected property belonging to the Duke of Moncrieffe. Portia’s sister is the beauty of the family while their mother is one of those so-called invalid mamas so often found in historical romances. Lady Maclean either cannot or will not bring herself to take an interest in the running of their household so naturally, all the decisions and worries fall to Portia who, while being quite capable, would nonetheless appreciate some help occasionally, even if that help came in the form of her mother’s being willing to economise and not be so concerned with keeping up appearances. Portia longs for more, for a life of her own – even as she knows she’s doomed to be the spinster daughter, firmly on the shelf and destined to be her mother’s support (and unpaid servant) for the rest of her days.

Harry is a man with much in his past about which he is not proud. His army service was brutal and bloody and I thought the author handled that aspect of his character well. She made it clear that he had issues with the things he’d seen and done and that they led him to believe himself to be less deserving than his brother – but she didn’t continually hit us over the head with it.

While Harry and Portia’s first meeting is somewhat inauspicious, she soon begins to feel respect, and more, for this strong, proud man who is so desperate to save his brother that he will get on his knees and offer his own life in exchange for Neal’s. Not that she believes in the curse – far from it, but she believes in Harry’s conviction and soon decides to help him to try to find a way to help Neal.

The romance between them begins to grow at a sensible pace and I enjoyed the way the author developed their growing awareness and attraction. But then suddenly (and, it would seem, with some supernatural intervention as things escalated so quickly as to make me wonder if I’d missed a couple of chapters), Harry and Portia begin a clandestine affair.

It seemed out of character for both of them. I think it’s supposed to feel that way, given what I’ve said about the fact they appear to have been given a magical push in that direction (not that they needed much pushing) but I did find it rather jarring.

Before long, Portia realises that she has fallen head-over-heels in love with Harry and, finally accepting the reality of the curse, realises that he can’t afford to fall for her, so she attempts to break things off with him. Being a man and thus somewhat dim (!), it takes him a while to work out why she has spurned him, even when the local witch more or less spells it out for him.

But once Harry does realise the truth, he – like Neal – admits to the importance of love in his life and instead of shutting himself away to mope, wants to spend whatever time he has with the woman he loves.

So now, it’s all up to Margaret, their somewhat sharp-tongued, waspish sister, to do what she can to break the curse in the final book, The Devil’s Heart.

Ms. Landor once again brings her considerable range and interpretative skill to this audiobook. The female roles are especially well done, with Portia and Minnie both voiced in ways which are well suited to their respective ages and dispositions. She gives Lady Maclean a rather bored-sounding drawl at the start of the story that expertly conveys her weariness and disinterest in those around her. Where Harry often sounded curt and abrasive in the previous book, here, Ms Landor has effected a slight softening in tone, which definitely helps to show how much he’s changed from the harsh, self-centred man he had been and has become a man who is prepared to do absolutely anything for the people he loves.

The secondary characters are so distinctly defined as to be immediately identifiable, and Ms. Landor does a very good job with the various Scottish accents she uses to portray the villagers. There is also the added challenge of voicing Rowan, Harry’s Indian servant, which she does well, and without resorting to caricature.

I enjoyed listening to these stories, although as I’ve said, I did have reservations about certain events which took place in both. But even so, they were very entertaining and beautifully told and the central couple in each book was likeable and well rounded. I definitely plan to listen to the final story in the trilogy in the near future.

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

There is a lot about this book, and this series in particular that I like, but I’m beginning to find that the same frustations I’ve had with the last several Cathy Maxwell books are repeated here. So let me start from the beginning: The Scottish Witch is the second book in the Chattan Curse series. It has a fabulous and intriguing premise: The Chattan line has been cursed for centuries because their ancestor hand fasted to the daughter of Fenella, and then abandoned her for a wealthy English heiress. Fenella cursed the Chattan men that once they have married and fallen in love, and ensured the continuation of their line with an heir, they die. For centuries, this has proved to be true up to and including the last Earl of Lyon, who died after a second marriage to an opera dancer.

Neal’s story in Lyon’s Bride was so-so, and I wasn’t entirely fond of that book either. This one is better, because it has the one character that I really liked — Harry. He’s introduced as a former military officer, who had glorious victories but many casualties. The weight of which are on his mind, causing an addiction to opium and alcohol. The problem with The Scottish Witch is that all the development for Harry’s character is in the first book, which really short changed first-time readers. The scene at the end of Lyon’s Bride in which Harry kicks his habit should have been reprinted or in the second book altogether. He faced a huge daunting task to kick his addiction, and a reader who’d never read the first book has no way of knowing, other than Maxwell offering some brief references to it. He never tells Portia the extent of his proble — and in the beginning of the book, Harry is determined to return to his former life after finding the witch Fenella and saving his brother’s life. So I’m supposed to believe he meets Portia and all is well? Maxwell cheats the reader on a wonderful character. An entire star is lost here.

Portioa, on the other hand, is a wonderful character with a lot of complexity whom I found vastly entertaining. She’s fiercely devoted to her family and keeping them solvent, which leads her to pose as Fenella so her family can pay the rent. My problem with Portia is that the consummation scene feels wrong. She’s not much of an active participant and it bordered on…not force exactly, but she was never quite swept away. She later becomes Harry’s mistress without ever asking him for more and never asking him to clarify his position with her. That felt wrong for me. Portia becomes passive once she hooks up with Harry.

And my final problem with this story is the same frustrating one I had in the last book, and several others: There’s too much telling. Maxwell glosses over entire events, does little to develop the character’s relationship once they’re actually together. Harry only offers for Portia’s hand once they’re caught together. This book felt underdeveloped, like it was missing huge chunks. It doesn’t feel complete.

Maxwell is still an engaging writer, and I enjoyed the first half of the novel quite well, until the leads came together and began their affair. After that, it’s a slow slide into annoying without much payoff. I’ll finish the trilogy to see how it turns out, but I’m not entirely satisfied because I’ve read all of her books. I know she can do better. She has.

[Zoe]

No rating because I only read to 17%. Hero and heroine still have not met. I don't have the patience to read on and go through the entire "getting to know you" phase and finally come to the point at 50% where they kiss and think: "oh my god I cannot be attracted to him/her, denial and lots of mentions of a hardened penis and heat pulling in her lower abdomen area".

I don't know anything about what happened after 17% but it reads like this kind of story. Pass.

[Miranda · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars!

When a Chattan falls in love, he is struck dead.

No curse is a good curse, right?

Harry's brother is dying and there is nothing Harry can do about it... not until he finds a witch that can break the centuries old spell put upon his family.

He finds himself searching for a witch. Who he finds is Portia Maclean masquerading as one. She's doing it for money to keep her family afloat and to keep a roof over their heads.

Eventually Harry discovers that Portia was the "witch" he met that night under the giant oak. From there witty banter turns to passionate kisses and more. Much more. Their secret affair is soon discovered though.

He was handsome. Noble. A man unlike any other.
A man every woman wished to kiss.
A man who captured her imagination in a way she'd not believed possible. A man who brought his lips down to hers...

Cathy Maxwell has such a passionate way of writing. The characters come alive off the pages and you're left with a smile on your face when you finish the ending.

I loved the characters and even the animals in this story. Owl is so mysterious and Monty's pack of dogs had me giggling throughout.

Lady Emma is one of those characters that you just love to hate.

Minnie (Portia's sister) is pure sweetness and you can't help but love her.

Portia is a strong willed heroine to a certain point. She grows with confidence as the story progresses and I found that I rather enjoyed her character a lot.

Harry is just an ok kinda hero. I didn't swoon over him and quite often I found myself wondering if he would ever become an interesting character. There's nothing really special about him and his character is forgettable. I felt like he needed more spark and personality. Having said that, I still think that this book is a superb read. I really enjoyed getting away to Scotland for a few hours and cheering on the hero and heroine.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review is also posted at www.thebawdybookblog.com.

Do you ever read a book and want to throw it across the room at the end of it? This book would have gone flying if it wasn’t for the fact that it was an ebook copy and that would have meant I would of have to throw my precious e-reader.
Now I know you’re asking yourself, Why? Why, throw a perfectly good book? What did that book ever do to you?
Why? WHY!?!? … I’ll tell you why. The ending pissed me off so much that I just wanted to chuck it. Stupid effin cliff hanger… I know that it’s a series but really, that’s where you’re going to end it Cathy. Right there, you couldn’t have gone on just a little bit further. AAAARRRGGGHHHHH…..
I was so mad at the ending , that when I sat down to write this review I realized that my brain had thrown up a big blinking sign that said “STUPID %&$*@* ENDING!!!” I actually reread the book just so I could write a semi coherent review. You know what, I loved the book the second time just as much as the first time I read it. That says a lot for a book as I typically don’t reread many.
I have fallen completely in love with this series. As I wrote in my review of the first in the series, Maxwell’s writing is superb. She just pulls you in and you are thrown headfirst into her world. The fullness of her writing style is even better in this second one. You really do feel that you are right there with her characters, feeling every pain they feel, each soft caress, the hardness of…. okay so I’m getting off track.
Harry is now clean and sober and on the path of finding a cure for the Chattan Curse. He has ended up in Scotland to try to find something of Fenella that will help. That is where he meets Portia. She is trying to keep her family from falling from society. She meets Harry after posing as a witch to try and earn some money for her family. Unbeknownst to them other forces are at play and sparks begin to fly. As the story progresses….
You know what; I keep writing and erasing this review. I can’t seem to talk about the story without giving too much away. There are some great bits in this one that add to the overall Chattan story line that are just too juicy to spill. So you know what, I’m not even going to try to keep this up.
I enjoyed this book, I loved the characters and the story. Go read it. Oh and just so you know, the next one comes out in May 2013!

*Disclaimer* This book was provided by the publisher in exchange of an honest review

[Nonieღserenity2bliss · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great one by Ms. Maxwell!

This one is a bit more witchy than the first book, but the witch stuff is not so dominant that you might confuse this with a paranormal romance. So for those who is not a fan of PNR, worry not! There's a lot of Historical romance goodies in the story that will make your heart flutter since the invention of chocolate fudge ice-cream.

Harry has come a long way from his drunken self in the first book. I like him, he's strong, determine and loyal. Portia's not a bad character herself. As the eldest daughter of a trouble family, the responsibility to keep the family (and their house) together fell on her shoulder. I expect her to be this uptight and rigid character. But I was wrong. She's level-headed, a bit uptight, and quite the romantic. She and Harry have combustible chemistry and that makes their story interesting, tenfold.

[Jess · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review posted: Happily Ever After - Reads
Blog rating: 2.5/5

The curse of death is still following the Chattan men once they find love. First, Neal (Lyon’s Bride) fell in love but now he’s growing weaker by the day. This time around, it’s his brother Harry’s turn. But Harry’s a rake, never staying with a woman for longer than a day or two so he, along with their sister Margaret, think that they’ll be safe. They refuse to fall in love and in an attempt to find a way to lift the curse, Harry goes off in search of a witch who can help him help his brother. He travels back to the area where the original curse, hundreds of years ago, took place and runs across Portia. A woman who deceives him, pretending initially to be a witch in order to earn money her family desperately needs. Harry soon sees her for who she truly is and they both start to experience something very intense as though their meeting was meant to be.

Portia is on the way to becoming a spinster. Her father was notorious for being unfaithful and having to support many different women and kids. After his death, Portia, her mother and her sister have no money and are struggling to keep a roof over their heads. Portia is keeping everything together, barely, so when she hears that a man is in town looking for a witch and is willing to pay, she becomes witchy, is convincing and comes away with a bit of money from Harry. Portia has always lived in her beautiful sister’s shadow. Her feelings are rarely taken into consideration and it’s just expected that she’ll always be the one to take care of their mother as both her mother and her sister don’t even consider that Portia might long for something more in her life. But Portia is resigned to the life she’s living until she crosses paths with Harry. There’s certainly something in the air because these two characters are such opposites, Harry a handsome playboy, Portia a plain wallflower, but they come together one night and it’s almost like magic pulls them together and they have a very intense night together. Of course, the curse is hanging heavy over Harry’s head and once love comes into the picture, his death becomes something that’s heading towards him quickly.

I knew going in that this is a series centered around this Chattan curse and since there are three Chattan siblings, it would only figure that the curse would be a main storyline throughout all three books. I was good with this in book 1, even though it ends in a happy for now moment since, well, the hero is dying. I guess I had hoped as I read this book that there would be a more definite outcome with the curse, something to move that storyline along quickly, but it’s still hanging out there just as it was after book 1 and we’re left again with a happy ending, but a dying hero.

Early on, I had a few issues with some of the supporting characters, specifically the mother. I couldn’t stand her and she took away from the enjoying the story for me. She’s very much “woe is me”, wallowing in pity that a husband who never showed her or their family true love or devotion has died and she’s all alone. She leaves everything to Portia, expects her to take care of her and their house and the tipping point for me was when Portia brings home the money she got from Harry, money they need to pay back rent and save for future bills. The mother takes the bulk of the money and goes dress shopping. I still can’t decide if I’m more annoyed at the mother for being oblivious and self-absorbed or at Portia for telling her mother about the money to being with. I didn’t find her character to be appealing at all and yet she even finds a happy ending, but I couldn’t buy into that relationship for her as it happens with a man who’s loved her from afar for years and who is truly too good for the woman.

As for the main romance between Harry and Portia, it has some sexy moments, but there really wasn’t anything that wowed me with their relationship. Early on, Harry takes Portia’s virginity and they keep meeting in secret. Portia knows she should stop as her reputation is already ruined but neither person can stay away. Harry is a fine hero, there’s just nothing about him that really stands out or will make me remember him. My heart softened a little more towards Portia. I think it’s easier to identify with the everyday heroine, the one who needs spectacles, worries about the bills, does the cleaning, it’s easy to feel for the character who does the thankless jobs and isn’t the belle of the ball. I wished for Portia to be happy and while we get a happy ending, I'd have liked something more solid. Not another to be continued into the next story.

I felt like this was a good story but not a stand out. The romance had its moments but was a bit underwhelming. My attention was drawn to Portia throughout and her own personal story. I wanted her happy, I wanted her to be taken care of since she’s been doing the care taking for years on her own and she gets that. For now. But I’m in this until the end and even though I’m a little ‘eh’ about the ending, I’ll be picking up book 3 and hoping that the curse finally comes to a conclusion.

[Kimberly · Rating 3 out of 5]

In the seventeenth century, Charles Chattan broke the heart of Rose of the Macnachtan, who then committed suicide. Her mother, a powerful witch, cursed not only Charles, but his entire line. When a Chattan male falls in love, he will die. The curse has proved true for centuries, and by 1814, Neal, Harry, and Margaret Chattan are the last of Charles’s line. Neal, Earl of Lyon, has already fallen in love and he’s growing weaker by the day. It’s up to his brother, Harry, to find a way to break the curse before it’s too late. Harry is desperate to save his brother and his search brings him to Scotland…and Portia Maclean.

Portia Maclean doesn’t believe in magic, but when she hears a rich Englishman is searching for a witch, she masquerades as one to save her family from ruin. Only Colonel Harry Chattan isn’t the arrogant, deluded Englishman she expects to find. Soon, Portia is drawn into Harry’s quest…and into his arms. But will their closeness help bring about an end to the curse? Or will it cost Harry his life?

Curses, witches, and a love destined to be all blend together in The Scottish Witch. Harry is a man who has battled personal demons and come out the victor. He’ll need his strength, for in The Scottish Witch he’s racing against time to break a powerful curse. I loved the first half of The Scottish Witch, for author Cathy Maxwell gave a great sense of urgency to Harry’s search. The energy of the story is reduced in the second half as the romance becomes the central part of the story. It isn’t that I didn’t like Portia; I adored her. She’s smart, resourceful, and protective of a family who doesn’t appreciate her as they should. I wanted her to find happiness with Harry. But the love story felt a bit disjointed. I felt like I was being told the relationship developed rather than seeing it, which made the second half of The Scottish Witch slightly less entertaining than the first half of the book.

The Scottish Witch is the second book in the Chattan Curse series. It can be read as a standalone, but I would recommend reading the series in order, starting with Lyon’s Bride, because of the overarching storyline. Ms. Maxwell has an interesting and problematic premise with The Chattan Curse series. I admit, the tension in both Lyon’s Bride (Neal’s book) and The Scottish Witch is high since you don’t know how the heroes will live. However, the storyline which makes the series unique also makes the romance a bit bittersweet since the heroes are dying and you don’t really get a sense of “happily ever after.” I hope when the curse is broken in the final book that readers will get a better sense of the future of the Chattan family as a whole.

Overall I enjoyed The Scottish Witch. Harry and Portia are likeable characters and Ms. Maxwell has me invested in the overall series plot. I’m looking forward to seeing how Margaret will break the curse in The Devil’s Heart.

Reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed.

[kris · Rating 2 out of 5]

Harry is looking for a witch to de-cursify his family. Portia dresses up as that witch for the $$$s. THEY FALL IN LOVE, MAYBE, IF YOU SQUINT.

This book was pretty gross! It had a lot of campy-fun potential, but then a frantic make-out session turns into unconsenting sex on the floor of a barn! It was at this point that I had to stop what I was about to see how much I had left. I had assumed I was like 30% of the way through; NOPE. 55%.

From there, it's a torrid affair with all the emotional development done off page. There's a public declaration of feelings, and then The Curse starts its evil work; Harry's sister shows up and has a good tantrum; and the book ends with Harry succumbing to the curse, Portia giddy because they love each other, and Harry's sister racing off to Somewhere else in Scotland to Defeat the Curse (but really to Fall In Love herself).

Did anyone follow that?

[Cathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

rating 2.5

"The Scottish Witch" Cathy Maxwell can be framed within the paranormal historical romance genre. Despite being in a trilogy, I felt that I hadn’t missed anything by not having read the first book. However, it is effectively an unfinished book.
I liked the general idea of this story. The plot and the character development was quite good during the first ¾ of the book. However, the author finished it too quickly. I ended up not realizing most of the changes of feelings of the characters. I was quite unhappy with the final progression of the book.

[Mary · Rating 1 out of 5]

Drawn in by the title, in which I was promised something "Scottish." Obviously, I need to stop being so gullible. Will someone please write something about Scotland that does not necessitate characters wrapped in tartan sheets?

[Yara · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read a book with almost the exact same premise earlier this year, and, while Cathy Maxwell did it better, I am still underwhelmed with the result.

The story is based on a fascinating idea, and it deserves detailed character and plot development. I would’ve expected that had I known this was part of a trilogy, but the plot felt rushed.

Overall, I just wanted *more.* I plan to read the last book to find out how it all wraps up, but I’m a little upset I have to do so lol.

[Amber · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this one. Historical romance with a generational curse? Hell yeah

[Dottie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A magical, suspense-filled, historical novel, which I gave a rating of 4.5. Taken from my review at RomanceJunkies.com:

Over two hundred years ago, Charles Chattan broke the heart of a woman who loved and trusted him. The brokenhearted woman, Rose, who had the gift of sight like her mother, Fenella, committed suicide. Devastated, her mother cursed him and his descendants so that any Chattan male, who fell in love, would have his heart struck with fire from Heaven. Then Fenella threw herself onto her daughter’s body, which lay upon a blazing funeral pyre. Six months later, after having recently declared to his friends that he had fallen in love with his bride, his heart just stopped during dinner with guests. Afterwards, generation after generation tried to break the curse, without success.

At twenty-seven and lacking a dowry, Portia MacLean was a penniless spinster. She had made peace with that. After all, her father, Blackjack MacLean, had taught her how selfish men could be. A captain in the army, he had had several families scattered around and when he died, he left them destitute. Exiled to Scotland by her uncle, who considered living in the ramshackle place there would be cheaper, Portia, with her sister, Minnie, and their self-absorbed mother, Lady MacLean, were about to be thrown out into the streets. The pension due from their uncle was long overdue and a representative of the landlord had just left, giving her one week to come up with the money. On top of that, the landlord’s daughter, Lady Emma, did not want them there due to her jealousy of Portia’s beautiful sister, Minnie. Desperate, she searches her brain for a way to come up with the money. While searching the estate, she discovers a book of spells and a cat resembling an owl that seems to be listening and understanding everything that Portia says. Then, hearing about the Chattan Curse and Harry Chattan’s current mission, she figures she may just have the answer to her dilemma.

Harry Chattan, a colonel in the British army, returned to Glenfinnan in Scotland, where Charles, the first cursed Chattan, had lived. He was searching for a witch, Fenella, or someone connected to her to break the curse as his brother is dying. He was certain that some part of Fenella was still around, even after over two hundred years, or else the curse would not be as strong as it is. He is so desperate to find this person that he has offered three hundred pounds sterling to have the curse removed. But, after a week of searching, the only thing he had found was that Highlanders had long memories. However, his brother has fallen in love and his wife is about to have a child, so Harry does not have long to find a way to have the curse lifted. Just as he is about to leave town, he receives a message.

Three hundred pounds would set up Portia and her family for a while, so, believing she can use the spell book she found to help her, she sends a message to Harry, asking him to meet her, and signs it Fenella. Harry meets with ‘Fenella,’ gives her fifty pounds and promises her the rest when she lifts the curse. Promising to meet him the very next night, she goes home, but when the next day arrives, she is unable to meet with him. Feeling that he has been used, he searches for her, although he doesn’t know what she looks like. However, he begins to realize that she wore spectacles. But even that does not help until he gets a little mystical help.
As he suspects that Portia may be the ‘Fenella’ who met with him in disguise, things turn heated and Portia finds herself falling in love. But, unfortunately, if he feels the same, he will die, unless they can find a way to end the curse. Will Portia be the cause of his death, or will they find a way to end the curse?

A magical tale, THE SCOTTISH WITCH, the second book in New York Times bestselling author Cathy Maxwell’s CHATTAN CURSE series, is a sensual, suspense-filled historical romance that is sure to captivate readers from the very first page. I absolutely loved this story and devoured it in the space of one day. These two were meant for each other. Harry is so self-sacrificing, willing to give his life to save that of his brother’s, whereas Portia has sacrificed her chance at a life of her own to provide for her family. I could not help from cheering them on as I eagerly turned the pages. Packed with interesting characters, a curse, a book of spells, clever banter, magic, passion, reincarnation, Scotland, romance and love, including that between siblings as well as the love of a man and a woman, this story is one you will not soon forget. Although this story is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone, but for additional insight into the series and for additional enjoyment, I advise also reading the first book in the series, LYON’S BRIDE. Now I am anxiously awaiting the release of the final book in this trilogy, THE DEVIL’S HEART, due out in May, 2013. In the meantime, for a terrific story with plenty of spice, wit and magic; do not miss THE SCOTTISH WITCH!

Dottie, RomanceJunkies.com

[Elis Madison · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you read my review of the first installment in this series, you'll know I was not enamored. It's a good thing I'd had enough time to forget that one before I saw this one on the shelf in my grocery store and snagged it on impulse. Because this one (maybe I'm just in a better mood this time) is a dam good read!



The backstory goes like this: Back in the early 17th Century, a sweet Scottish girl named Rose loved a man named Charles Chattan. He'd handfasted with her, and she was expecting his child. But then he left to marry a rich Englishwoman. Rose waited faithfully until the day of his wedding, believing he loved her, that he would surely return and claim her as his wife. When he didn't, she took a long step off a parapet.



It wasn't pretty.

The lady's mother was a witch—in both senses of the term. Her beloved daughter couldn't be buried on hallowed ground (because of the suicide) so she had an "old-style" funeral pyre made. As the flames were touched to tinder, Fenella (the mom) placed a curse on the man and all men of his line. If they fall in love, they go toes-up in a very short amount of time. This is the Chattan Curse (cuz the ancestral name of the men is Chattan).

FF a couple hundred years (more or less). Neal Chattan has gone and fallen in love. His wife is expecting and he's dying. His younger brother Harry has come to Scotland to find a way to break the curse.

In Glenfinnan Scotland, Portia MacLean does her best to keep a roof over her family's head. Doesn't help that her mother and sister are a couple of self-absorbed ninnies (sister Minnie less so, but still definitely in the running). Portia mucks the stables and cleans the house and begs coin from penny-pinching relations to pay the rent on a house that barely keeps the rain out.



One day while she's cleaning, a little white cat with strange folded-down ears appears in her house and knocks a book off a high shelf. It's a book of recipes and spells. And it has the name Fenella written in it.

A few days later, an Englishman nearly runs her down on the road, and curses at her because she got in his way. When she gets to town, she hears that the jerk is looking for a witch to break a curse—and he's willing to pay a nice penny. With any other guy she might wrestle with the morality of it, but this guy…

She sets up a clandestine meeting and comes up with a kind of witchy-forest-nymph costume.



He surprises her by turning up early before she can put on the funny hat, but under her cloak, the moonlight reflects off her spectacles, and he just sees these empty, glowing moons where her eyes should be. Between that and the strange white cat that guards her, he's impressed—this, finally, must really be Fenella. Or something.

Portia takes some of his money—but only agrees to "think about" breaking the curse. When the day comes for their next appointment, she's a no-show. The money he did give her is enough to pay the rent and buy Minnie a nice dress for a big soiree that's coming up. Portia's mum doesn't see a point in buying dresses for Portia—she's the daughter who will stay home and tend her aging parent.

Harry's lassoed into going to the soiree with a good friend, who is madly in love with Portia's bitch of a mom—no accounting for taste. And while the local Duke's daughter is intent on claiming him, he's somehow drawn to Portia. Who is somehow familiar—and who, for some reason, keeps trying to duck his attentions (first woman ever to do that, we're told—no, Harry doesn't think too much of himself).



And the first second they're alone, they're tearing off each other's clothes. They can't seem to help it. And the cat is purring….



I don't think it's too much of a spoiler to warn you that, like the last one, this book ends with a cliffhanger. But either I was prepared for it this time around, or the wrap-up was much more satisfying. I am waiting eagerly for the third installment, which is coming April 2013!

[Jamie Heustess · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Scottish Witch: The Chattan Curse by Cathy Maxwell is the second book in the “Chattan Curse” series. After a young woman commits suicide due to an unfaithful lover, her mother places a curse on the man and his family. If a Chattan man falls in love, he will die after siring a son to continue the witche's prophesy. Harry and his two siblings, Neal and Margaret, are the first in the Chattan line to be more than a one child generation. It is because of this that they hope to change what they see as their fate…to live without love and a family to avoid death.

Harry Chattan is a man on a mission. He has traveled to the wilds of Scotland to find a witch to reverse the family curse. His older brother is succumbing to the mystery illness that has claimed all the previous Chattan men after they sired a son. Harry is determined to find an answer and believes against all hope he will find the cure in Scotland. A decorated war hero, Harry has his own demons that have haunted him.

Portia Maclean has much more mundane problems to worry about than a family curse. Thanks to a adulterous and wastrel father, the family has been left bouncing from family member to family member as poor relations. After being sent to the country and renting a small cottage home that is falling down around their ears, they are facing eviction because their family has conviently forgotten to send money to support them. Add to that a mother that is in denial about her late husband, and a sister that has managed to anger the landlord's jealous daughter with her beauty and to fall in love with the homely town doctor, and you have a distressing mess. Portia devises a plan to pretend to be the witch Harry is searching for, believing the money she will gain will make her conscious feel better about fooling an Englishman. Little does she know a mysterious cat has other plans for her, much less that she finds the Englishman in question to be humble and genuinely concerned for his family.

I found this book to be a little slower paced than the first in the series. Although it took a little longer to pick up, I wouns up really enjoyed this mix of characters. Portia is the main provider for the Maclean family; she cares for each member, makes sure to pay the bills and doles out what little she has saved in the way of money as she can. She is fiercely devoted to her beautiful sister, who is just as pretty on the inside as she is outside. She tries to keep her meddling mother from ruining the blossoming romance of the town doctor and Minnie, her sister. Portia reminds me a lot of most women I meet: devoted, headstrong, and sometimes a little derogatory to herself. She tries to provide for her family's needs before her own happiness.

Harry is a devil-may-care rake, albeit a disillusioned and fearful one. I expected a lot of things of Harry - none of them overly great. I must admit that I was pleasantly fooled. His love for his brother touched my heart. He was truthful to the point of pain, humbling himself before a “witch” in order to save his brother's life. Harry made me remember the bonds that siblings have and the overwhelming need of all people to love and be loved, no matter the obstacles in the way. His war memories and coping mechanisms, alcohol and opium, made me feel like I was reading a story about a 21st century soldier with PTSD and the spiral into an abyss of his own making.

Ms. Maxwell again delivers a compelling and heartfelt read to her fans. I can't wait to read the next in the series, The Devil's Heart: The Chattan Curse.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book. Harry has come to Scotland, where the curse began, in hopes of finding a way to break it. Now he is traveling all over the area looking for anyone who could be a witch. Portia and her mother and sister have come to live in Scotland to save money. Her father had left them destitute and reliant on the charity of family members. When she stumbles across what looks like a book of spells with the name Fenella in it, she decides to impersonate a witch and take some of Harry's money. This leads to them working together to find the answers Harry needs.

I liked both Harry and Portia. She is the practical backbone of the family. Her sister Minnie is beautiful and in love with the local doctor. Mom refuses to admit the dire straits they are in and is pushing Minnie to marry well, trying to drive away the doctor. One rainy day Portia discovers a book of recipes and spells and a small white cat. When she hears about Harry's search for a witch she decides to take advantage. When she meets Harry in her disguise she doesn't expect the zing of attraction. She also doesn't expect the impassioned plea for help from the arrogant Englishman. When he discovered who she was and confronted her, their passion overwhelmed them both and they began meeting secretly. I liked the way that Portia had put her family first for so long, but has come to realize that she wants something for herself too. She is sure this time with Harry won't end well but she's willing to risk it. I also like the way that she helps Harry even though she doesn't believe in witches and curses. As their affair heats up Portia discovers she's losing her heart to Harry, even though he has said he will not fall in love. I loved the way that she tried to protect him at the end.

Harry has changed a lot from the first book (Lyon's Bride). In that he was trying to fight his memories of the war with alcohol, opium and women. Now he has cleaned up his act and is determined to find a way to end the curse that is killing his brother. He has come to Glenfinnan in hopes of finding someone connected to the original Fenella who made the curse. When he receives a note from a "Fenella" who claims to be able to help him, he meets with her. He is desperate enough to beg for her help and agrees to meet with her the next night, but she doesn't show up. This infuriates him as he feels that she took advantage of his desperation and he tries to find her. When he does his anger turns to passion. He feels a connection to Portia that he has never felt with another woman, but because of the curse he refuses to allow himself to take a chance on love. I liked the way that they worked together to see what they could find out about the curse. I could see that Harry's connection to Portia was turning into love but he was still stubbornly denying it to her and himself. I loved the ending with his big declaration.

I also enjoyed the two secondary romances of Portia's mother and sister. Portia was furious at her mother's interference and I loved the pep talk that she gave to Minnie's suitor. Her mother was a real piece of work that I found to be terribly self-centered through most of the book. I loved the way that Portia finally stood up to her and told her off. I also liked Harry's part in the way that he encouraged the General in his pursuit of Portia's mother. The little white cat is an interesting twist. I have a suspicion about her place in the story so it will be interesting to see if I'm right.

[Tabitha (Bows & Bullets Reviews) · Rating 3 out of 5]

The review is also available on my blog, Bows & Bullets Reviews

Portia Mclean is long past the years of debutante balls and searching for marriage. Her time for that has passed and since her father left their small family with absolutely nothing to live on when he died, they have moved to Scotland, where life is a bit cheaper and maybe they can find someone who is willing to marry her beautiful, but penniless, sister. Portia works hard to keep the financially stable, which is a difficult feat when her mother refuses to accept they are too poor to waste money on fancy dresses when the landlord is demanding rent or they’ll be thrown out. Harry Chattan is on a mission. He must find a way to break the Chattan curse and save his brother, who is fading fast. Whenever a Chattan male falls in love, he dies. Not instantly, but usually within 6 months, he is buried and he cannot tolerate the idea of burying his brother. He thinks he has finally found Fenella in Scotland, but later learns it was simply a girl masquerading as her to get money. But he becomes so captivated by this imposter that he can’t leave and he’s convinced that this girl really can help.

It’s as difficult for me to write this review as it was for the first book in this series. Generally, when I read a HR from an author I’ve enjoyed, I love them. There is rarely a case where I just don’t love it and this is the second book in a row that it has happened with. I had so many issues with this. The characters were fine for the first half of the novel and then it’s like when Portia and Harry finally got together, everything went to hell. Portia went from being headstrong to blindly following Harry. Harry went from being a one night stand guy to having multiple clandestine meetings with the same woman. Even Portia’s mother changes, going from a stubborn woman with interests only for herself to appearing to truly care about her children’s happiness.

The plot was entirely predictable. You could see where it was going from page one, which isn’t normally a complaint for HR because with all of them, you know the hero and the heroine will end up together at the end, that’s always a given, but this one was even more so. Another issue I had was with the first time Harry and Portia have sex. It read less like consensual fornicating and more like rape. They just start making out and then suddenly they are fucking. He gives Portia no real warning and there is barely any foreplay. I mean, I get that Harry felt a sense of need and urgency, but he had to know that Portia was innocent and that she wouldn’t realize the implications of what she was doing or what his intentions were until after the fact. It just felt wrong.

Really, this novel isn’t all that bad, which is why it gets three stars, but I just didn’t love it. I’m going to finish this series, but I don’t have overly high hopes for the final book. Thus far, I am highly disappointed in this series and I cannot believe that cliffhangers are invading this section of fiction. I thought they were better than that…..maybe I was wrong.

****Thank you to Avon, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers, for providing me with an eARC via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review****

[Angela Carr · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Feathers
Review also posted at Under The Covers Book Blog


"Watchers of the threshold, Watch of the gate, open hell and seal Chattan's Fate.
When a Chattan male falls in love, strike his heart with fire from above.
Crush his heart, destroy his line; only then will justice be mine".
~Fenella, Lyon's Bride/The Scottish Witch

Fenella cursed the Chattan line to never find happiness. Her daughter Rose had committed suicide due to broken heart caused by Charles Chattan. True to her words, as soon as any of the Chattan men falls in love, death comes soon after.

The last of the Chattan’s; Lyon, Harry and Margaret had promised not to fall in love and to finally end the curse. But love will always find a way, as they say and it has found Lyon. Now, love will work its way to Harry’s heart.

Unfortunately, the Chattan curse continues to exist and now Lyon' health deteriorates. Harry is determined to find a way to save his brother. It is great to see him really come out of his “daze” of drinking and nights out gallivanting with women. Unlike in Lyon’s Bride, Harry is not just in limbo. He now has a purpose and swears to find a powerful witch that would break the curse.

Portia, this selfless heroine, is determined to support her self-centered, single mom and beautiful sister. After her father past away, she felt obligated to do the right thing by them. On a verge of eviction, she must do what she can to earn extra cash even if it means to pose as something she is not.

I was captivated in Harry’s journey to finding ways to break the Chattan Curse. Though the curse was not broken in this installment, Harry and Portia found their HEA, which was the least they had expected. The romance was moderate and there was a fair amount sexual tension between the lead characters.

The only thing is that I wish Harry realized he is in love with Portia sooner. It broke my heart that his proposal was initially due to obligation. I thought he was too comfortable with their status that commitment was the least of his intensions though it was obvious that he felt more for her.

There were two side stories that I thought was a sweet addition to this book. It’s Portia’s mom, Lady Mclean and sister, Minnie’s story to their HEA. Their love stories slowly brewed in the background but woven nicely into Harry and Portia’s Story. Ms. Maxwell also revealed Charles Chattan's POV and I thought that was an interesting treat.

Oh and I cannot forget a very mysterious, very cute cat named Owl. Ms Maxwell actually posted a picture of a "Scottish Cat" and it really looked like an owl, very cute! I have a feeling this feline will have quite an impact on what is to come of the Chattan Curse.

Ms. Maxwell is a talented storyteller and I cannot wait what she has in store for Margaret in The Devil’s Heart. Seems like she will be the very thing to finally break the tragic curse.

*ARC provided by publisher

[Desirae · Rating 2 out of 5]

This cover is positively orgasmic, I mean, just look at it!!!!



But beyond that, I didn't really find a lot to enjoy within. The story opens in 16th century Scotland, where young Rose has been abandoned by her handfasted lover Charles so he can marry another woman. In her greif she flings herself off the parapets of her ancestral home, and her witch mother Finella curses Charles and all of his line to die when they find true love.

Skip ahead to 18th century Scotland, where Charles descended Harry is on a hunt for a witch who can end the curse before his beloved brother Neil (who's wife Thea is "big with child") dies as yet another victim of the curse.

Portia is a smart, snappy, spinster in spectacles who finds Finellas ancient spell book in the attic and begins to dabble. Portia's situation, however, is not sound, her rouge of a father has died, leaving her mother and beautiful little sister Minnie in abject poverty. Her mother is desperate to get Minnie wed to a ditch man, even though she's already in love with a modest country doctor.

The story heats up when Portia sees that Harry has posted a notice that he will pay hansomly for any information on a real witch who can help him break his curse, and in order to pay the rent she dresses up as an old hag and tells him what he wants to hear.

I had several issues with this book, firstly, the atmosphere very off. At times it gave the appearance of a Jane Austen small town full of quirky characters such as Monty with his many dogs and " crazy Lizzie" but I never got a since of the landscape or the culture. This is Scotland, for Christ sake, where are the Moors? The heath?

I didn't feel any real connection between Harry and Portia either. This wasn't a case of install love but it wasn't a slow sizzle either. I had a hard time feeling with their attitude to each other during their coupling; during their first time together, she struggles and pushes him away, but he continues anyway - it was borderline rape, almost - and then he casually refers to her as his mistress which I thought Portia took too lightly.

I would have liked more intrigue about the curse and more character and relationship development.

There was also a super adorable little wide eyed kitten named Owl who is not what it seems

[Linda Hays-Gibbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Scottish Witch Review authored by Cathy
Maxwell
Review by Linda Hays-Gibbs
This is a story within a story. The beginning in 1632 has a jilted Rose of Macnachtan brooding over her lover who has left her with a baby in her belly after he hand fasted her to marry an English heiress for his family. Charles Chattan has no idea the evil unleashed on him and his family to come.
Rose's mother, Fenella is a witch and she curses Charles after her daughter kills herself and jumps into the funeral fire with her daughter.
That was not the end for every generation of Chattan's die as soon as they fall in love.
Next we are in 1814 and a Portia Maclean, who is taking care of her mother and sister in a poor rundown house with leaks in the roof. Portia goes to empty the buckets of rainwater in the attic and finds a very strange cat and a book if spells with Fenella's name on it.
A frantic Colonel Harry Chattan is searching for a way to break the curse and save his older brother who has fallen in love and is dying. He begs everyone for a witch to help him. Portia needs rent money and when she hears he is offering a lot of money she decides to pretend to be a witch.
However; when he kneels before her and begs her to take his life so his brother can live she falls in love.
Portia hid her identity and thought her secret safe but he finds her out.
Portia's sister Minnie is in love with Oliver Tolliver and she assists her sister to have her man. Chattan saw her efforts and realizes his heart falls a little for her, as she is so good and kind.
He follows her and becomes enchanted. He tells himself he will never fall in love but he is under her spell.
This is an exciting and lovely tales, especially if you like witches and magic with a lot of romance. I loved Portia and her glasses with her determination to help everyone but herself until she finds herself in love. I love Harry and his selflessness for his family and his stubbornness.
They make a lovely pair but they still have a curse to contend with and hope to save their family.
This was a beautiful Scottish tale of magic and love. I felt like I was there witnessing Fenella in her rage. I could not stop reading it. I give it Five stars out if Five . It was a pleasure to read.
Linda Hays-Gibbs
The Romance Reviews
Author Eternal Press

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I very much enjoyed this one!

Magic surrounds this story from the beginning, with a second remembrance of the story of the curse from Rose's point of view to Portia's discovery of Fenella's book of spells to the appearance of a strange cat, named Owl, who appears, disappears, then reappears mysteriously. Owl, the cat becomes a very intricate part of the story and the mystery. We soon discover that only Harry Chattan and Portia MacLean seem to be able to see it - and Monty's dogs!

Whereas LYON'S BRIDE alone was only good read, it was a great setup for this novel. Having read it, I thoroughly enjoyed THE SCOTTISH WITCH, the second book in the Chattan Curse series by Cathy Maxwell because of the history known of the story and having already met Harry. Not only is the relationship between Harry Chattan and Portia MacLean much more vibrant and magical, in that I got the definite impression that Owl might very well have a lot to do with their instant and passionate attraction to each other, but because I had already found myself attracted to Harry from the first book. After he meets Portia, who I so very strongly related to, Harry brings her alive and as she does him. The pair are wonderful together, charming and endearing. Harry is a good man with a loyalty that cannot be struck down by the meanest curse and when he extends that loyalty to Portia, you just want to embrace the man and wish him for your own.

THE SCOTTISH WITCH by Cathy Maxwell is fast-paced, character rich, and leads the reader into an even greater mystery with a teaser end that will have clamouring for the next installment. We are definitely left with an I NEED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS NEXT yearning to read the next book in the Chattan Curse series, THE DEVIL'S HEART - which won't come to us until the end of April - darn it!!

I highly recommend THE SCOTTISH WITCH by Cathy Maxwell, if you've read LYON'S BRIDE. If you haven't then do and get yourself caught up in this series. It's truly bewitching!

** Print copy provided by publisher for private reading without expectation of a review but this is an honest and unscripted review.

[Mary Gramlich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can we change our fate?

Harry Chattan knows he must accomplish two things: find the witch that cursed his family and never fall in love. Both are proving to be a challenge even beyond his diverse military expertise as the witch eludes him and a woman is haunting his dreams. When Harry meets Portia she claims to have the “cure” for this terrible plague that has haunted his family, and nothing will stop him from getting it. The problem it turns out is she is not a witch but a woman in possession of a “recipe book” for cooking up something that is not bread. Portia is trying to keep many lives together as she helps her mother and sister manage from the disaster her rogue father created and she is willing to sell what she knows to stay afloat.

While Harry and Portia search for an answer to his dilemma, they find the hardest part is staying out of each other’s arms. The last thing either is looking for is a relationship, but is that what they have or just a clandestine affair? Harry knows his family is suffering and his search for answers continues even with the wicked witch he seeks one step ahead of him. There are times when the worries of his life are at rest but only when he is with Portia and this scares him for their future looks so dark. Harry cannot stay away from Portia, as she appears to be the warmth his heart has needed for too many years. Always running is a great idea but when you stop you have to hope someone will be there waiting for you with a kiss good night.

Love apparently is in the air everywhere in Scotland. This book also follows the romance between two young lovers as well as two mature adults who rediscover the magic of capturing the moment.

Every Cathy Maxwell book is a delight to readers as she provides the glory that is love along a bumpy road. Ms. Maxwell takes you on a journey to discover not only why the characters act a certain why but why. No detail is every left out as every one of them is vital to the story.

[My Book Addiction and More MBA · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE SCOTTISH WITCH by Cathy Maxwell is an intriguing and interesting historical romance with paranormal elements. Book #2 of “The Chattan Curse”,See “Lyon’s Bride”. While, “A Scottish Witch” can be read as a stand alone, I would suggest reading Book 1 first, to get the just of the curse and why the three siblings are on a guest to find the witch who cursed them and their loved ones. Three siblings,Lyon,Harry and Margaret Chattan,whose ancestors,The Chattan’s, where cursed centuries ago by a witch,if they fall in love, they will die.The original Chattan,Charles, marries an English bride after being hand fasted to a Scottish lass,who later commits suicide,on the day of his wedding. Thus,cursed by her Scottish mother,who dies with her daughter.

In “The Scottish Witch” Harry,sets out to save his older brother,Lyon from the curse and find a way to break the curse. But what he finds is Portia Maclean,while both Portia and Harry believe they are beyond love,moonlit nights,enchanting dances,find them not so immune after all. “The Scottish Witch” is full of twists and turns,magic,a force to reckon with,love for family,love of siblings,the desire to break a curse from centuries ago,save a family,and love forever. A must read for anyone who enjoys Scottish lore,curses,historical romance and a lot of love. Filled with passion,danger,and desire. “The Scottish Witch” is a absolute pleasure to read.Fast paced with enchanting characters who will steal your heart away. I can hardly wait for Margaret’s story. Can the curse be broken in time to save the siblings? Ms. Maxwell has written a story that not only holds your attention but holds your heart also. Received for an honest review from the publisher. Details can be found at the author’s website,Avon Books,an imprint Harper Collins Publishers,and My Book Addiction and More.

RATING: 5

HEAT RATING: MILD

REVIEWED BY: AprilR, My Book Addiction and More/My Book Addiction Reviews

[Annette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Portia is the manager in her family. She must be the manager, because there is no one else. Her family has come to a home in Scotland that is falling down and even in this dire strait, they are unable to pay the bills.

Harry is a war hero who has come to Scotland to find a solution for a curse that has been on his family for over 200 years. Each man in the family dies shortly after falling in love. Harry's brother (who evidently is the hero of the first book in this series) is dying because of the curse and his love for his wife.

I have not read the first book, but even without that knowledge, it was pretty easy for me to follow the story.

Portia passes herself off as a witch who can help Harry find his cure. There is an immediate emotional response between the 2 and from there the pair become lovers.

The book is the first by Cathy Maxwell that I have read.

This book may not have been the best one for me to become a fan of Ms Maxwell's. Because it is part of a series, there are things that will be answered in the next book in order to find out the outcome of the curse.

I can recommend this book to anyone who likes Scottish historical backgrounds. The characters of both Portia and Harry are well developed. The secondary characters are not all wonderful people, sort of like real life.

I would have liked to have more of a conclusion to the story, but understand how a series works.

The plot of the next book will be the final chapter in the story of the Chattan family curse and whether or not Harry and his brother both live in order to enjoy a happy family life with wives whom they love.

I received this book as the winner of a contest with the only expectation being that I would write an honest review.