What do you think?
Rate this book
The MacGregors #3
All The Possibilities
Former First Daughter, and current potter/shop owner Shelby Campbell is wary of U.S. Senator Alan MacGregor's attention. She knows all too well what life in the public eye is like, and the life of a politician. But Alan is persistent. He's determined to win her over and show her that their future is worth all the potential drawbacks.
250 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published July 1, 1985
1268 people are currently reading
2822 people want to read
About the author
Nora Roberts
1,209 books59.6k followersNora Roberts is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of more than 200 novels, including Hideaway, Under Currents, Come Sundown, The Awakening, Legacy, and coming in November 2021 -- The Becoming -- the second book in The Dragon Heart Legacy. She is also the author of the futuristic suspense In Death series written under the pen name J.D. Robb. There are more than 500 million copies of her books in print.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews
November 1, 2020
U.S. Senator Alan MacGregor is attending another political evening soirée, thinking it’s just going to be another run-of-the-mill party when he gets a glimpse of a young woman with flaming, curly red hair who is dressed unconventionally and exudes personality. She has an immediate connection with him, too, not recognizing who he is. But once Shelby Campbell becomes aware of his identity, she tries desperately to put on the brakes, despite her undeniable feelings for Alan.
Shelby has really good reasons for wanting to abandon her relationship with Alan before it gets started. However, Alan is equally persistent in his determination for just the opposite. I’ve had my struggles with this series because of the “hands-y” men and thankfully Alan is much better behaved. I really liked his quiet but perceptive nature. But what was even more likable about him was the way he “got” Shelby, who is definitely a free spirit, and refreshingly so.
I really enjoyed this story and how the conflict in the relationship between these two was realistic yet didn’t interfere with their deep affection for each other. I loved how Shelby handled Daniel MacGregor and the long-standing “feud” between the MacGregor and Campbell clans. This was a fun and lovely story.
Shelby has really good reasons for wanting to abandon her relationship with Alan before it gets started. However, Alan is equally persistent in his determination for just the opposite. I’ve had my struggles with this series because of the “hands-y” men and thankfully Alan is much better behaved. I really liked his quiet but perceptive nature. But what was even more likable about him was the way he “got” Shelby, who is definitely a free spirit, and refreshingly so.
I really enjoyed this story and how the conflict in the relationship between these two was realistic yet didn’t interfere with their deep affection for each other. I loved how Shelby handled Daniel MacGregor and the long-standing “feud” between the MacGregor and Campbell clans. This was a fun and lovely story.
February 7, 2020
Free-spirited Heroine with Big, Traumatic Past falls in love with a serious-minded, potential POTUS. That’s pretty much it. Though there is no OW on the scene, author makes it a point to underline several times that the heroine is NOT beautiful like hero’s usual, beautiful, blonde girlfriends. But the heroine is more “interesting.” I could have maybe accepted it once, upon their initial meeting, but when the hero keeps thinking that and even outright compares her to other women, I wanted to bash his face in.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2019
This is neither the best Nora Roberts series nor my favorite. Although I admit that this book is not as bad as some others in this series.
This book was written in the 1980s and you feel it very clearly. First of all, in the way the characters are constructed. In their behavior, personality and dynamics of their relationship. Alan's behavior is pretty often very close to stalking and even sexual harassment. He doesn't take no for an answer. Even when it is clear and unambiguous no. In his defense, however, I can say that Shelby almost never means it. She is the crown example of a woman who says no when she thinks yes. Watching it is painful.
This is a rather short story so you can expect that the characters will not be well developed. And you would be right. This is especially true for Alan. In fact, I can't say much more about him than that he is a senator. We also learn from Shelby and other characters that he is responsible, conservative (although I do not about what - politically? In life? In the moral code?) and stiff. The only thing I could see is that he treats his work responsibly. I don't think he is particularly stiff or boring.
And then there's Shelby. I am not sure if the author intentionally made her a terrifyingly hesitant woman. Shelby is to be a crazy artist with a restless and colorful soul. Instead, she is an annoying stubborn woman who changes her mind every two minutes. She’s driving me crazy in the first half of the book. I think she should be a strong woman but in my opinion she is only stubborn and convinced that she knows everything better.
This is of course a story of love at first sight. Although I hate this motive, here it is that bad. I am much more annoyed by the first half of the book in which the characters struggle with affection. This part is written awkwardly and unconvincingly. Their emotional dilemmas are terribly exaggerated and the inconsistency of their behavior irritates. The second half when everything starts to run more smoothly is much better and more fun.
To sum up, this is not the worst book in this series (I was unlucky to read, among others, the love story of Alan's parents). If you like the specific style of romances written in the 1980s, then you may like it. For me it's definitely not my style. But at least the second half of the book I read fairly quickly.
February 22, 2021
3 to 3.5 stars. Alan and Shelby. Better than the previous ones in the series. Doesn't feel as cheesy or quite as dated, in spite of the heavy smoking and lack of contraception.
An up-and-coming senator (in 1980s Washington LOL) falls for a slightly unconventional woman who makes her living as a potter, and she falls right back. There was chemistry between them from their first meeting, but it didn't feel like stupid instalust, just the spark of genuine mutual attraction. Roberts builds the romantic relationships in her books very well and convincingly.
A light but quite enjoyable read, 80s flavour and all.
An up-and-coming senator (in 1980s Washington LOL) falls for a slightly unconventional woman who makes her living as a potter, and she falls right back. There was chemistry between them from their first meeting, but it didn't feel like stupid instalust, just the spark of genuine mutual attraction. Roberts builds the romantic relationships in her books very well and convincingly.
A light but quite enjoyable read, 80s flavour and all.
September 15, 2019
Scottish families and sizzling romance. Count me in. Despite being on the more older side for the story it was a compelling romance. Considering I read it almost 35 years after its original publication I imagined Alan and Shelby happily married for 34 years with grandkids running around by this time.
Nora Roberts never disappoints.
Nora Roberts never disappoints.
June 1, 2014
A typical Nora Roberts book; I really enjoyed the heroine Shelby. She is an artist, lives as she pleases and refuses to be bored. Her father was a Senator, running for President, when he was murdered in front of his children. Shelby adored her father, she was only eleven, but she was determined to live life to the fullest, and never marry a politician. She would not risk that kind of heartbreak again. Nor would she be molded to be a polished politician’s wife.
But when she met Alan MacGregor, another Senator who would undoubtedly run for President one day, she had to make the hardest decision of her life. She told him in no uncertain ways that she was not interested in him, in dating him, going out with him, but Alan did just not take no for an answer, and forced his way in her life and in her heart.
He knew that Shelby was the one for him, and he would have her as his wife. Sure, she was nothing like the cool blondes he usually dated, poised and elegant, Shelby was fire and life and unique. But he had to overcome her fear to get her to accept.
I liked Shelby a lot, determined to go her own way, not giving in to pressure. But I had a hard time with liking Alan. I know this is an 80’s book, but he really did not take no for an answer. He kept pushing and sometimes pushing to far. He did not accept her reasons. In my eyes, even if the woman loves you and desires you, no means no, and just pushing on, bedroom wise until she gives in at last, is just not the right thing to do.
It is just a short story, so Alan did not have all that much time to sway Shelby with more gentle ways, but it pushed the wrong buttons for me. I did love it when Shelby and Alan visited the MacGregor castle though, and the MacGregor tried to intimidate her with his loud ways, but as a true Campbell, Shelby was not afraid of him and stood up against him. He loved her for that, and accepted her in his family immediately. But Alan still had to make her accept his proposal at that time.
But well, what woman can say no to a man who gives her a rainbow instead of the standard roses?
I have read this book in Dutch, many years ago, and now I am slowly making my way through Nora’s backlist in English. And I am afraid I will never catch up with the pace she writes in. But like Alan, I will persevere.
6 stars.
But when she met Alan MacGregor, another Senator who would undoubtedly run for President one day, she had to make the hardest decision of her life. She told him in no uncertain ways that she was not interested in him, in dating him, going out with him, but Alan did just not take no for an answer, and forced his way in her life and in her heart.
He knew that Shelby was the one for him, and he would have her as his wife. Sure, she was nothing like the cool blondes he usually dated, poised and elegant, Shelby was fire and life and unique. But he had to overcome her fear to get her to accept.
I liked Shelby a lot, determined to go her own way, not giving in to pressure. But I had a hard time with liking Alan. I know this is an 80’s book, but he really did not take no for an answer. He kept pushing and sometimes pushing to far. He did not accept her reasons. In my eyes, even if the woman loves you and desires you, no means no, and just pushing on, bedroom wise until she gives in at last, is just not the right thing to do.
It is just a short story, so Alan did not have all that much time to sway Shelby with more gentle ways, but it pushed the wrong buttons for me. I did love it when Shelby and Alan visited the MacGregor castle though, and the MacGregor tried to intimidate her with his loud ways, but as a true Campbell, Shelby was not afraid of him and stood up against him. He loved her for that, and accepted her in his family immediately. But Alan still had to make her accept his proposal at that time.
But well, what woman can say no to a man who gives her a rainbow instead of the standard roses?
I have read this book in Dutch, many years ago, and now I am slowly making my way through Nora’s backlist in English. And I am afraid I will never catch up with the pace she writes in. But like Alan, I will persevere.
6 stars.
© 2014 Reviews by Aurian
May 28, 2019
Traditional romance, one of my least favorite genres but I thought it would be a light, quick read which is what I needed. The cringe-worthy lovers dialogue is the big downside along with the description of any passionate scenes. I did like the repartee between Shelby & the MacGregor patriarch, Daniel. Nothing new in the storyline. Woman meets man whom she does not want a relationship with due to differences in lifestyle and career ambition, he is determined to have her & eventually wears her down. Happy ending.
August 3, 2017
Despite the shortened time-line of the romance and the hero in pursuit this book worked for me. A nice oldie.
January 27, 2019
This is still, forever, etc, my favorite of the MacGregor series. It's wild reading about 80s politics in 2019, though, let me tell you that. But Alan and Shelby, they are forever.
February 6, 2021
Nora Roberts has learned a lot as a writer since this series was written. She has learned how to make her characters live, instead of just speaking from the pages of the book. She has learned to curb the angst factor significantly. Both have made her more recent romances so much better. "All the Possibilities" suffers from both one dimensional characters and a high angst factor. t just wasn't a pleasant experience, even though I was intrigued with her many allusions to the Kennedy family.
Rising star politician, Senator Alan MacGregor from Massachusetts, sees free spirit artist Shelby Campbell at a DC party and is instantly smitten. Shelby is smitten too and determined to run as fast as possible in the opposite direction. The rest of the book is the story of Alan making sure that Shelby doesn't outrun true love.
Rising star politician, Senator Alan MacGregor from Massachusetts, sees free spirit artist Shelby Campbell at a DC party and is instantly smitten. Shelby is smitten too and determined to run as fast as possible in the opposite direction. The rest of the book is the story of Alan making sure that Shelby doesn't outrun true love.
April 16, 2019
What a book! Loved this book and loved Shelby and Alan
This H and h fit and complemented ... their chemistry is white hot and passionate ... amazing banter and loved h's eccentricities ... she was truly lovely while H was suitably dashing, serious and definitely hero material ...
Loved h's banter with H's father ... she is double minded about visiting his family until he tells her his father mentioned something about her being a Campbell and how they are inferior to Macgregors ... absolutely loved the bit about the Macgregor and Campbell fued that is such an important part of Scottish history ...
Goes on the keeper shelf ...
This H and h fit and complemented ... their chemistry is white hot and passionate ... amazing banter and loved h's eccentricities ... she was truly lovely while H was suitably dashing, serious and definitely hero material ...
Loved h's banter with H's father ... she is double minded about visiting his family until he tells her his father mentioned something about her being a Campbell and how they are inferior to Macgregors ... absolutely loved the bit about the Macgregor and Campbell fued that is such an important part of Scottish history ...
Goes on the keeper shelf ...
November 22, 2017
o carte foarte simplu de citit
o iubire clasica (imposibila la prima vedere ;) ),
un el cu o viata calculata, si o ea schimbatoare
genu de carte care are cel putin cite o gluma reusita pe fiecare pagina, nu o poti citi fara sa zambesti cu gura pana la urechi, sa simti fiorii dragostei, si, in final, sa fii "fericita pana la adanci batraneti" prin prizma eroilor :)
o iubire clasica (imposibila la prima vedere ;) ),
un el cu o viata calculata, si o ea schimbatoare
genu de carte care are cel putin cite o gluma reusita pe fiecare pagina, nu o poti citi fara sa zambesti cu gura pana la urechi, sa simti fiorii dragostei, si, in final, sa fii "fericita pana la adanci batraneti" prin prizma eroilor :)
Read
March 16, 2020finally done! of course I left it at school and had to find the audio version on Scribd... But it was of course amazing. I loved the parts with Daniel and his being appalled that Alan would be so moved by a lying, theiving Campbell (!!) of all people!
May 19, 2023
My beautiful late nan owned every single one of Nora’s books.
So when she moved in with us for her last few years we spent the time reading our way through every single one together.
Granted they are not the type of books I like to read, but they were still really good and sweet.
November 29, 2025
Alan MacGregor is a US Senator and Shelby Campbell’s father was a politician and now owns a pottery shop to sell her art. When they met, there was an instant connection. However, Shelby didn’t want anything to do with a politician. Alan was persistent and Shelby fell hard for him. I really like the MacGregor family, Alan and Shelby, and the romance. The plot was also solid.
June 10, 2016
Romanul scriitoarei Nora Roberts a aparut in limba romana cu titlul " Posibilitati nenumarate" publicat de editura Litera in colectia " Carti romantice". Face parte din romanele inchinate familiei MacGregor. Acum i-a venit randul celui mai mare dintre fratii MacGregor, Alan, senator cu perspective de a candida la presendintie dupa inca un numar de ani, respectat in mediile politice dar si in saloanele la fel de politice ale Washingtonului sa si traiasca propria lui poveste de dragoste. Trecut deja de 30 de ani atat familia cat si confratii de partid care isi pun sperante in cariera lui politica, considera ca e timpul sa se insoare. Toti sperau sa gasesca o femeie la fel de calculata ca el, precisa si de o frumusete standard care sa-i fie sprijin in cariera. Dar asta doar pana in seara cand o cunoaste pe Shelby Campbell la cocktailul senatorului Write. Shelby Campbell este departe de a fi o frumsete standard de o eleganta standard. Fiica a senatorului Richard Campbell asasinat pe cand ea avea 11 ani, Shelby detesta tot ce tine de politica si de functiile politice pe care le considera periculoase si plicticoase. Ea este artista ceramista, are micul ei magazin in care isi vinde propriile productii si o locuinta micuta dar placuta chiar deasupra magazinului. Nu prea agreaza sa participe la intalniri simandicaose ca cea organizata de Carol Write dar ii promisese mamei ei ca o va face si se tine de cuvant. La aceasta petrecere o vede Alan Macgregor pe mica frumusete neconventionala cu parul rosu ca focul si se indragosteste pe loc. Shelby il place si ea de la prima intalnire dar faptul ca este senator o determina sa respinga cu obstinatie orice incercare a lui Alan de a o concinge sa se casatoreasca cu el. Modul in care va lupta Alan MacGregor cu incapatanarea si temerile frumoasei Shelby merita sa fie urmarit citind acest roman simplu, curat si placut care vorbeste numai si numai despre dragoste.
December 22, 2016
É já certo e sabido que Nora Roberts não é uma autora a seguir por todo o tipo de leitores. No entanto, para leitores como eu, são livros que de certa forma nos permitem relaxar sem qualquer tipo de pressão associada. Na maioria das vezes sabemos exactamente o que nos espera. E esta obra não é excepção.
"Todas as possibilidades" é o terceiro livro da série "Os MacGreggor", facto que só descobri depois de pegar nele! Mas, como seria de esperar, é um livro que se lê de forma independente dos seus anteriores, No entanto, teria sido mais interessante se tivesse começado por conhecer "Os MacGreggor" por ordem cronológica :).
Nesta obra ficamos a conhecer Shelby Campbell e Alan MacGreggor - duas personagens que não poderiam ser mais diferentes uma da outra. Como é característico da autora, temos aqui a criação de duas personalidades fortes e de toda a faísca previsível entre as duas! No entanto, contrariamente aos livros da autora que já li este apenas se foca na relação entre os dois, o que de certa forma desilude o leitor.
Assim, em "Todas as possibilidades" temos mais um romance capaz de despertar alguns sorrisos pela relação entre as suas personagens, sendo muito fácil empatizar com Alan MacGreggor e sorrir com Shelby Campbell. Deixo também aqui o meu agradecimento à HarperCollins Ibérica que gentilmente nos cedeu um exemplar para leitura e opinião.
http://bloguinhasparadise.blogspot.pt...
"Todas as possibilidades" é o terceiro livro da série "Os MacGreggor", facto que só descobri depois de pegar nele! Mas, como seria de esperar, é um livro que se lê de forma independente dos seus anteriores, No entanto, teria sido mais interessante se tivesse começado por conhecer "Os MacGreggor" por ordem cronológica :).
Nesta obra ficamos a conhecer Shelby Campbell e Alan MacGreggor - duas personagens que não poderiam ser mais diferentes uma da outra. Como é característico da autora, temos aqui a criação de duas personalidades fortes e de toda a faísca previsível entre as duas! No entanto, contrariamente aos livros da autora que já li este apenas se foca na relação entre os dois, o que de certa forma desilude o leitor.
Assim, em "Todas as possibilidades" temos mais um romance capaz de despertar alguns sorrisos pela relação entre as suas personagens, sendo muito fácil empatizar com Alan MacGreggor e sorrir com Shelby Campbell. Deixo também aqui o meu agradecimento à HarperCollins Ibérica que gentilmente nos cedeu um exemplar para leitura e opinião.
http://bloguinhasparadise.blogspot.pt...
July 8, 2012
The MacGregors Ailesinin tiryakisi oldum ben..Şu ana kadar en beğendiğim hikayee bu oldu..Hele Alan MacGregor kişiliği kararlılığı ile tam da karizmatik ne istediğini bilen bir erkek modeli idi..
Shelby Camppbell o da bir İskoçyalı ama Klanı farklı biri ötekinin topraklarını almış:)) Ama asıl derdi Shelby'nin başka babasıda Alan gibi siyasetçi imiş ama kızının gözlerinin önünde bir suikast sonucu öldürüldüğünde Shelby on yaşında..Ömür boyu sürecek bir travmaya sebep olan bu olay yüzünden Shelby Alan'ı hayatına sokmamakta kararlı..Ama Alan'da vazgeçmeiyor o da çok kararlı..
Bazen duygulandığım,bazende kahkahalarımı tutamadığım bir hikaye idi..Serinin ilk kitabından itibaren seri yi okurken giderek daha fazla zevk almaya başlıyorum..Ama bu hikayelerse en sevdiğim karakter Daniel MacGregor bu babaya bayılıyorum okurken..
Şimdi bakalım hangi hikayeyi okuyacağız? Sırada sanırım Grant var onu da bir an önce okumak istiyorum..
Shelby Camppbell o da bir İskoçyalı ama Klanı farklı biri ötekinin topraklarını almış:)) Ama asıl derdi Shelby'nin başka babasıda Alan gibi siyasetçi imiş ama kızının gözlerinin önünde bir suikast sonucu öldürüldüğünde Shelby on yaşında..Ömür boyu sürecek bir travmaya sebep olan bu olay yüzünden Shelby Alan'ı hayatına sokmamakta kararlı..Ama Alan'da vazgeçmeiyor o da çok kararlı..
Bazen duygulandığım,bazende kahkahalarımı tutamadığım bir hikaye idi..Serinin ilk kitabından itibaren seri yi okurken giderek daha fazla zevk almaya başlıyorum..Ama bu hikayelerse en sevdiğim karakter Daniel MacGregor bu babaya bayılıyorum okurken..
Şimdi bakalım hangi hikayeyi okuyacağız? Sırada sanırım Grant var onu da bir an önce okumak istiyorum..
March 3, 2018
O lectură frumoasă și relaxantă. Mi-au plăcut cei doi eroi total diferiți, Alan - calcutat, cu o cariera de succes și Shelby - nonconformistă,vulcanică, total diferită de frumusețea elegantă și convențională la care se aștepta toată lumea. Împreună descoperă dragostea adevarată, formând perechea perfectă.
Replicile drăguțe și, pe alocuri, pline de umor, împreună cu personajul haios Daniel MacGregor nu lipsesc nici din acesta carte, ceea ce îi adaugă câteva puncte în plus.
Replicile drăguțe și, pe alocuri, pline de umor, împreună cu personajul haios Daniel MacGregor nu lipsesc nici din acesta carte, ceea ce îi adaugă câteva puncte în plus.
July 2, 2018
I normally love Nora Roberts' books but I just could not love this one. My issue with it is the lack of respect for "no" as an answer. Yes, it worked out for Alan and Shelby in the end, but Alan would not take no for an answer, literally. He practically forced himself on her as well as basically abducted her. That made me not feel as invested in their relationship because it feels like a potentially abusive one.
June 2, 2016
Un clásico de Nora Roberts, puro romance en el que la protagonista me resulta perfecta. Hasta el momento el mejor de esta serie...
February 17, 2018
Mysig & söt Nora Roberts. Man får vad man förväntar sig & det är rätt charmigt de med.
May 24, 2019
I vaguely remember reading this series in the early 90s, passed to me by my mom as she finished them. Still excellent stories.
July 14, 2023
i liked it a lot. it was so much better than the previous one. my favorite part was the family reunion with daniel being daniel.
February 12, 2013
George Bernard Shaw once said: "The possibilities are numerous once we decide to act and not react." . In the third book of the MacGregor series, this is pretty much the hidden and often implied moral.
Alan MacGregor, Daniel's firstborn, is the only child of his that hasn't found his sweetheart yet. His career as a Senator is a success, and he has a very promising path to presidency ahead of him, should he decide to tread that way. Marriage is not something he cares for, at least not until his soul mate is found, much to his father's dismay. They say careful what you wish for. Well, in this case, both men must have wished really hard, as they get to deal with a woman no one expected they would associate with. Shelby Campbell is a bohemian merchant who sells her own pottery, daughter of former President-to-be Campbell who was assassinated right in front of her eyes, and descendant of the "thieving, murdering Campbells", as Daniel often puts it. In other words, her blood is the enemy's blood, the kind the MacGregor patriarch would rather NOT see mixed with his own. And yet Alan falls in love with her the very moment he sees her, and his mind is made up; he will marry this Campbell, and make her USA's First Lady, or he'll go down fighting. But Shelby isn't a woman to be claimed easily, and with her father's death still looming over her, she'd rather die than get close to any politician again - no matter how much Alan is making her resistance seem like child's play...
I have to say, I was waiting anxiously to read Alan's story, seeing as he was my favorite of the siblings, and I really enjoyed his character, even if he seemed like a love-sick stalker at times. However, I'm forced to admit that, yes, at the very last chapter, a guy just...came in and stole the spotlight. Grant Campbell is like...my dream caveman of sorts, and honestly, even if his appearance was brief, I fell in love with his rudeness, his grumpy attitude, and how much of a sulking hermit he is. Makes me want to take a bite *licks her lips*. And the fact remains that as soon as I read his description, I was mentally assaulted with Aidan Turner's image for his face:
[image error]
Is it my fault? Tell me, is it? I heard the next book is about him, and boy, I would sell my soul to the devil to see Grant in love. I bet he's gonna cuss like a sailor to his beloved and growl like crazy. Oh, the images my mind is getting...
But back to Alan! He was sweet, and while his profession required him to be serious, there were times his playful tricks almost got him on Caine's childish level - almost. The fact he fell in love with Shelby immediately kind of threw me off at first, but then I realized that the MacGregors are people who really know their minds well, so time was not something they would need to confirm it - given they are Daniel's flesh and blood. His family bonds are strong, and I enjoyed seeing him troll his father side-by-side with his siblings - damn, Daniel is a real sucker when it comes to being played with. And while I personally don't care for politicians, Alan was one that I would kill for, should his kind ever decide to take over Earth. Just saying... He has a way to make everyone do what he wants, and he's not even trying! That, of course, doesn't mean he doesn't take the others around him into consideration. His way of courting Shelby would be downright creepy if it happened to anyone of us in real life, but he always did that special something that made the stalker look like the romancer. A man who sends you rainbows, stuffed pigs and balloons and takes you to the zoo for the first date is simply irresistible! My favorite gift was the strawberries. It was kind of symbolic, as he said they reminded him of Shelby, and her own thoughts on them were that they were, and I quote "brilliantly red and begging to be tasted". Ironic, don't you think? [image error]
Shelby was a character that really confused me. At times, I just wanted to bite her head off, and I was that close to putting her in the same category of annoying bitches as Diana - who actually seemed nicer in this book (guess regular lawyer sex really did the trick in this one). But then I would remember that Alan did act like a stalker, and that she at least had some excuse, not like Diana who just was "restricted" by her aunt because she had no back bone to lead her own life. Shelby's fear to get involved with Alan had nothing to do with him as a man, but with his job. If she was a downright hater, I would have no problem cursing her to hell and back, but, as it stands, I can't really blame someone who was a mere child when her father was killed in front of her because of what he did for a living. And she was right, if Alan was to campaign for the top spot, there would be people who would attempt to end him in many and dangerous ways. Thus, her fear and her self-denial was based on something somewhat logical and acceptable, even if she acted like a moody child whenever she tried to turn the Senator down. Her choice of a job was unique, and I guess it explained some of her quirks - artists are very tormented and often irritating souls. And before I forget, I know her eyes may not match, but in my dream cast Karen Gillan would be perfect for Shelby's part
The firstborn of the MacGregor siblings and his sweetheart were amazing and very intriguing characters as individuals, but as a couple they were even better. I think, along with Serena and Justin, they are one of those couples that just...clicks together. Their meeting was cute, the way they sneaked out of that party like a pair of kids trying to have fun in an adults' boring dinner meeting, and how they introduced themselves so casually, just their first names. The marriage proposal had me doing a double-take, it was so natural and sudden, I nearly fainted at how proper and practical Alan sounded, all the while trying to look nonchalant and laid-back so as not to scare Shelby off. Shelby's interactions with Daniel at the family gathering were my favorites, and I'd be surprised if the old pirate doesn't have a soft spot reserved for that "backstabbing Campbell" in his heart already. Though it seems that all those around his age have gone down with his matchmaking syndrome, seeing as all of Alan and Shelby's common friends were desperately trying to get them together...
Alan's story was a refreshing one, focusing on romance mainly, even if at first Shelby's surname looked like it would bring more trouble than necessary. Shelby was someone who looked for all the possibilities at almost everything she encountered, yet she could never bring herself to do so when it came to her relationship with Alan. It's a good thing he was a man who knew what he wanted and how to approach it.
I can't resist starting Grant's story right now. I'm afraid the man is circling in my head, snarling and glaring, and I simply have to read what he'll do once the Cupid's arrows bring him to his knees. So without further delay, I'm off to get myself better acquainted *winks*
Alan MacGregor, Daniel's firstborn, is the only child of his that hasn't found his sweetheart yet. His career as a Senator is a success, and he has a very promising path to presidency ahead of him, should he decide to tread that way. Marriage is not something he cares for, at least not until his soul mate is found, much to his father's dismay. They say careful what you wish for. Well, in this case, both men must have wished really hard, as they get to deal with a woman no one expected they would associate with. Shelby Campbell is a bohemian merchant who sells her own pottery, daughter of former President-to-be Campbell who was assassinated right in front of her eyes, and descendant of the "thieving, murdering Campbells", as Daniel often puts it. In other words, her blood is the enemy's blood, the kind the MacGregor patriarch would rather NOT see mixed with his own. And yet Alan falls in love with her the very moment he sees her, and his mind is made up; he will marry this Campbell, and make her USA's First Lady, or he'll go down fighting. But Shelby isn't a woman to be claimed easily, and with her father's death still looming over her, she'd rather die than get close to any politician again - no matter how much Alan is making her resistance seem like child's play...
I have to say, I was waiting anxiously to read Alan's story, seeing as he was my favorite of the siblings, and I really enjoyed his character, even if he seemed like a love-sick stalker at times. However, I'm forced to admit that, yes, at the very last chapter, a guy just...came in and stole the spotlight. Grant Campbell is like...my dream caveman of sorts, and honestly, even if his appearance was brief, I fell in love with his rudeness, his grumpy attitude, and how much of a sulking hermit he is. Makes me want to take a bite *licks her lips*. And the fact remains that as soon as I read his description, I was mentally assaulted with Aidan Turner's image for his face:
[image error]
Is it my fault? Tell me, is it? I heard the next book is about him, and boy, I would sell my soul to the devil to see Grant in love. I bet he's gonna cuss like a sailor to his beloved and growl like crazy. Oh, the images my mind is getting...
But back to Alan! He was sweet, and while his profession required him to be serious, there were times his playful tricks almost got him on Caine's childish level - almost. The fact he fell in love with Shelby immediately kind of threw me off at first, but then I realized that the MacGregors are people who really know their minds well, so time was not something they would need to confirm it - given they are Daniel's flesh and blood. His family bonds are strong, and I enjoyed seeing him troll his father side-by-side with his siblings - damn, Daniel is a real sucker when it comes to being played with. And while I personally don't care for politicians, Alan was one that I would kill for, should his kind ever decide to take over Earth. Just saying... He has a way to make everyone do what he wants, and he's not even trying! That, of course, doesn't mean he doesn't take the others around him into consideration. His way of courting Shelby would be downright creepy if it happened to anyone of us in real life, but he always did that special something that made the stalker look like the romancer. A man who sends you rainbows, stuffed pigs and balloons and takes you to the zoo for the first date is simply irresistible! My favorite gift was the strawberries. It was kind of symbolic, as he said they reminded him of Shelby, and her own thoughts on them were that they were, and I quote "brilliantly red and begging to be tasted". Ironic, don't you think? [image error]
Shelby was a character that really confused me. At times, I just wanted to bite her head off, and I was that close to putting her in the same category of annoying bitches as Diana - who actually seemed nicer in this book (guess regular lawyer sex really did the trick in this one). But then I would remember that Alan did act like a stalker, and that she at least had some excuse, not like Diana who just was "restricted" by her aunt because she had no back bone to lead her own life. Shelby's fear to get involved with Alan had nothing to do with him as a man, but with his job. If she was a downright hater, I would have no problem cursing her to hell and back, but, as it stands, I can't really blame someone who was a mere child when her father was killed in front of her because of what he did for a living. And she was right, if Alan was to campaign for the top spot, there would be people who would attempt to end him in many and dangerous ways. Thus, her fear and her self-denial was based on something somewhat logical and acceptable, even if she acted like a moody child whenever she tried to turn the Senator down. Her choice of a job was unique, and I guess it explained some of her quirks - artists are very tormented and often irritating souls. And before I forget, I know her eyes may not match, but in my dream cast Karen Gillan would be perfect for Shelby's part
The firstborn of the MacGregor siblings and his sweetheart were amazing and very intriguing characters as individuals, but as a couple they were even better. I think, along with Serena and Justin, they are one of those couples that just...clicks together. Their meeting was cute, the way they sneaked out of that party like a pair of kids trying to have fun in an adults' boring dinner meeting, and how they introduced themselves so casually, just their first names. The marriage proposal had me doing a double-take, it was so natural and sudden, I nearly fainted at how proper and practical Alan sounded, all the while trying to look nonchalant and laid-back so as not to scare Shelby off. Shelby's interactions with Daniel at the family gathering were my favorites, and I'd be surprised if the old pirate doesn't have a soft spot reserved for that "backstabbing Campbell" in his heart already. Though it seems that all those around his age have gone down with his matchmaking syndrome, seeing as all of Alan and Shelby's common friends were desperately trying to get them together...
Alan's story was a refreshing one, focusing on romance mainly, even if at first Shelby's surname looked like it would bring more trouble than necessary. Shelby was someone who looked for all the possibilities at almost everything she encountered, yet she could never bring herself to do so when it came to her relationship with Alan. It's a good thing he was a man who knew what he wanted and how to approach it.
I can't resist starting Grant's story right now. I'm afraid the man is circling in my head, snarling and glaring, and I simply have to read what he'll do once the Cupid's arrows bring him to his knees. So without further delay, I'm off to get myself better acquainted *winks*
August 25, 2024
I liked meeting Shelby and her family and seeing her get unravel by Alan's persistence. I liked seeing more of Alan as well, as he's had a fairly limited role in the previous books. His quiet charm and dedication, I felt, added to the attraction Shelby felt for him and the recognition of his profession, which she was originally against. I liked that he kept on going, eliciting her affection, and then when she finally came to him, I was so elated. I recognized her fears and doubts and felt she showed a lot of bravery throughout the book as she processed her feelings for him and their shared desires for the future. Overall, another great book!
November 8, 2024
Published in 1985, this book has most of the elements that were typical of 80s category length contemporary romances, but it doesn’t cross too many lines that make you go yikes. And it’s Nora Roberts, so the writing is decent if a bit melodramatic. Not a whole lot happens except the main characters getting to know one another, developing feelings, and working through an emotional obstacle to get to their HEA. But overall, I liked the characters, the banter was good, and it was an enjoyable quick read. Sometimes this is exactly what I’m looking for.
June 5, 2025
This book annoyed the heck out of me! The manhandling, the “I don’t accept NO for an answer”, the squeezes on her arms firmly enough to leave marks… I’m so glad we don’t live like that anymore. It’s a shame that the female hero actually accepted bending her boundaries to accommodate him. I supposed women used to think that would make them happy.
March 5, 2025
Enjoyable and kept me want g to read more. I enjoyed meeting the family and friends as it was a bit too intense at time between Alan and Shelby. It would be hard in her situation to marry a potential Presidential candidate after what happened in her past.
March 14, 2025
Throughly Enjoyable
Another awesome novel by Nora Robert’s. Fascinating storyline with a deep rooted traumatic event that leaves Shelby afraid to follow her heart. Afraid of what the future might hold for her and the man she adores. A must read if you’re a fan.
Another awesome novel by Nora Robert’s. Fascinating storyline with a deep rooted traumatic event that leaves Shelby afraid to follow her heart. Afraid of what the future might hold for her and the man she adores. A must read if you’re a fan.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews