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Scottish Medieval #1
Highlanders
Get swept away by the romance of the Highlands in three historical romance novellas from Harlequin!
The Warrior and the Rose (Scottish Medieval #1) by Brenda Joyce
Lady Juliana MacDougall prays for her loved ones to survive battle against Robert Bruce...but the battle comes to her when her lands are attacked by a band of Highlanders, including a man wearing the colors of her clan’s worst enemy. Taken hostage by Alasdair Og, Juliana quickly learns he’s as exceptional a lover as he is a ruthless warrior.But how can she ever love Alasdair when he’s her blood enemy?
The Forbidden Highlander (The MacLeries #6.5)by Terri Brisbin
Honor-bound by an arranged betrothal, James Murray never anticipated falling in love with his intended bride’s dearest friend instead.The passion between James and Elizabeth MacLerie is undeniable, but they are torn between love and loyalty to their clans....
Rescued by the Highland Warrior (MacKinloch Clan #3.5) by Michelle Willingham
Celeste de Laurent is determined to never again live in poverty. After sacrificing love for a secure marriage, she now stands to lose everything as a widow. Her only hope is to bear an heir - and what better man to father her child, and save her from a terrible fate, than Dougal MacKinloch, the only man she ever loved?
244 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2013
24 people are currently reading
485 people want to read
About the author
Brenda Joyce
106 books1,298 followersBrenda Joyce is the bestselling author of forty-one novels and five novellas. She has won many awards, and her debut novel, Innocent Fire, won a Best Western Romance award. She has also won the highly coveted Best Historical Romance award for Splendor and Two Lifetime Achievement Awards from Romantic Times BOOKreviews. There are over 14 million copies of her novels in print and she is published in over a dozen foreign countries.
A native New Yorker, she now lives in southern Arizona with her son, dogs, and her Arabian and half-Arabian reining horses. Brenda divides her time between her twin passions—writing powerful love stories and competing with her horses at regional and national levels. For more information about Brenda and her upcoming novels, please visit her Web sites: www.brendajoyce.com, www.thedewarennedynasty.com and http://mastersoftimebooks.com.
A native New Yorker, she now lives in southern Arizona with her son, dogs, and her Arabian and half-Arabian reining horses. Brenda divides her time between her twin passions—writing powerful love stories and competing with her horses at regional and national levels. For more information about Brenda and her upcoming novels, please visit her Web sites: www.brendajoyce.com, www.thedewarennedynasty.com and http://mastersoftimebooks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 33 reviews
May 31, 2013
Do you like a highlander? They are a particular weakness of mine. Brenda Joyce has a way with writing them and their romantic stories.
The Warrior and the Rose, is just another stunning example of how this woman can wield a story with words, even in this short story. This did not make it any less powerful.
The other stories in this collection were interesting as well, both had the highland personalities in there characters down pat. I have to say this was a very pleasurable little collection of Highland romance stories.
If you are a lass after my own heart and go weak at the knees over a Scottish burr, pick up this Highlanders collection.
The Warrior and the Rose, is just another stunning example of how this woman can wield a story with words, even in this short story. This did not make it any less powerful.
The other stories in this collection were interesting as well, both had the highland personalities in there characters down pat. I have to say this was a very pleasurable little collection of Highland romance stories.
If you are a lass after my own heart and go weak at the knees over a Scottish burr, pick up this Highlanders collection.
November 1, 2016
I read only the MacKinloch Clan installment from Michelle Willingham. The other two stories did not interest me so they are not reviewed.
This was the final installment of the MacKinloch Clan series. It was a short novella that told the tale of the youngest MacKinloch brother, Dougal. Dougal never really stuck out to me in the previous stories because he was so much younger and he really wasn't that memorable here either.
In this novella, Dougal is reunited with the woman who rejected him for a wealthier man years ago. The woman is now widowed and in dire need of protection for her and her sister from her brother-in-law and his wife. Dougal is still resistant to the woman even though their attraction is still there. Throughout the story, Willingham provided glimpses of the other couples in the MacKinloch clan.
Ultimately, the two put their pasts behind them, but I thought that the threat to the woman (I can't even remember her name now) was wrapped up too neatly. I will warn you, there was a lot of misunderstanding and jumping to conclusions that occurred in this tale.
I'm glad I read this to say goodbye to a fun series, but it was not as much of a reunion story for the entire clan as I'd hoped it would be.
This was the final installment of the MacKinloch Clan series. It was a short novella that told the tale of the youngest MacKinloch brother, Dougal. Dougal never really stuck out to me in the previous stories because he was so much younger and he really wasn't that memorable here either.
In this novella, Dougal is reunited with the woman who rejected him for a wealthier man years ago. The woman is now widowed and in dire need of protection for her and her sister from her brother-in-law and his wife. Dougal is still resistant to the woman even though their attraction is still there. Throughout the story, Willingham provided glimpses of the other couples in the MacKinloch clan.
Ultimately, the two put their pasts behind them, but I thought that the threat to the woman (I can't even remember her name now) was wrapped up too neatly. I will warn you, there was a lot of misunderstanding and jumping to conclusions that occurred in this tale.
I'm glad I read this to say goodbye to a fun series, but it was not as much of a reunion story for the entire clan as I'd hoped it would be.
January 17, 2016
Maybe it was the novella length, I did not buy into any of the stories. I did not like the characters. Their stories were flat. I felt like I have read hundreds of stories like them before. Nothing memorable.
I may have to call it quits on Brenda Joyce and Terri Brisbin. I have given them a few tries and always walked away disappointed.
I may have to call it quits on Brenda Joyce and Terri Brisbin. I have given them a few tries and always walked away disappointed.
September 15, 2013
This is a trio of novellas by Brenda Joyce (yay!) Terri Brisbin, and Michelle Willingham. I’m not normally a great buyer of anthologies but when I really love one of the authors I see it as a good way to check out others I’m not as familiar with.
The first novella is The Warrior And the Rose by Brenda Joyce. As usual, Joyce sets her story in well-researched history, in the days when Robert de Brus (Robert the Bruce's grandpa) competed for the throne of Scotland, following the death of Alexander III (The Great Cause). The story revolves around the unlikely marriage of Juliana MacDougall and Alasdair Og MacDonald. I say unlikely because the MacD’s were
It seems like Joyce’s sex scenes are almost always fraught with all kinds of tension—there are a million reasons the heroine ought to be telling the guy to go eff himself, but she’s all
As a result I’m usually a bit frustrated with her. On the other hand, I tend to flip past about 90% of other authors’ sex scenes because I find them either boring, silly (all the gawdawful euphemisms for body parts), or TMI. It’s like looking through someone else’s bedroom window—some folks find it a turn-on. Me, not so much. Joyce is usually one of the 10% whose scenes are fun to read. This time, the scene was hot, but I was still more irritated with the heroine than entertained. This man has murdered a harmless priest, burned a cathedral, and abducted her, her pregnant sister, and sister’s children, and she’s wild with lust for him? Exactly when did she lose her mind? This may be the biggest problem with novellas—there’s not enough pages to develop the sexual tension to the point where the heroine’s inevitable seduction works in the context of the “hero’s” assholery.
That said, I still enjoyed the read, and by the time we got to the HEA I was OK with it.
Next up is The Forbidden Highlander by Terri Brisbin.
The hero, James, is in love with Elizabeth, but betrothed to her best friend Ciara, who is in love with Tavis. James decides to run off with Elizabeth, who has a secret. She was “indiscreet” a year or so ago and let’s just say he won’t be seeing blood on the bed linens. She doesn’t tell him, just waits for him to figure it out for himself. Naturally, he feels she played him. Just about the time he starts thinking that maybe he ought to hear her out, her brother, sent by their laird, arrives. The brother has her snatched up by one of his men to get her out of the way, even though she’s screaming at him to back off, then he beats James into a three-day coma. He then learns that his man had to tie her up and gag her after she put up a hell of a fight. What does he do? He leaves her bound and gagged all night, refusing to let her tend her lover. He doesn’t release her until HE decides she probably needs to relieve herself.
Then he lets her go—and expects her to cook.
Now, me, if I’m Elizabeth?
But Liz? She contemplates burning dinner but decides against it. And she feels sorry for her brother when she realizes that what he did to James will probably cost him his position in the clan. Even when James finally wakes up, he’s pissing blood (meaning, literally, that while the swelling in his brain might not kill him now, he’s still bleeding internally), and STILL she isn’t angry enough for payback.
Seriously, I want the heroines to act as my proxies in these stories, and if the writer has done a good enough job (in just a few pages, no less!) that I’m LIVID on the heroine's behalf, I want her to exact some vengeance! Call me a vengeful bitch—I’ll answer—but I’m not content to leave stuff like that to karma. I want to see her hands get dirty.
The HEA is also a bit too neatly tied for my liking, but the fact that I was caught up in the story emotionally means that I’ll probably buy Brisbin’s next book, especially since it’s a Highlander story. I am so heartily sick of Regencies I might just
Rescued by the Highland Warrior
Newly widowed Celeste de Laurent is desperate. Unless she can produce evidence that she carries her husband’s baby, within a fortnight she and her sister will be cast out of her husband’s home. The heir apparent, her husband’s brother, and his greedy wife, are already spiking her wine with abortifacients to make sure. And it’s not necessary—she’s already getting a visit from Aunt Flo.
She’s been poor and hungry before and she’s not doing that again. A crazy idea comes to her—what if she finds another guy and gets herself knocked up (cuz THAT’s gonna happen while she’s on her period) and passes the kid off as her husband’s? And who better to father the child than Dougal MacKinloch, the poor man she dumped for the wealthy man she married?
Thing is, Dougal isn’t easy—he’s still grumpy about being dumped. And while he’s busy resisting her, her brother-in-law is chasing after her—and shooting at her.
There were a few logic issues in this one, starting with the notion that she was going to get herself knocked up while on her period (they did know about the rhythm method in those days)—which by the way didn’t seem to slow down the sex any—and ending with . Despite this, I liked the way things ended up . I was emotionally engaged enough that I actually shed a tear or two. I’ll watch for more Medieval and Scotty romances by this author.
I'll give the whole thing 4 stars.
The first novella is The Warrior And the Rose by Brenda Joyce. As usual, Joyce sets her story in well-researched history, in the days when Robert de Brus (Robert the Bruce's grandpa) competed for the throne of Scotland, following the death of Alexander III (The Great Cause). The story revolves around the unlikely marriage of Juliana MacDougall and Alasdair Og MacDonald. I say unlikely because the MacD’s were
It seems like Joyce’s sex scenes are almost always fraught with all kinds of tension—there are a million reasons the heroine ought to be telling the guy to go eff himself, but she’s all
As a result I’m usually a bit frustrated with her. On the other hand, I tend to flip past about 90% of other authors’ sex scenes because I find them either boring, silly (all the gawdawful euphemisms for body parts), or TMI. It’s like looking through someone else’s bedroom window—some folks find it a turn-on. Me, not so much. Joyce is usually one of the 10% whose scenes are fun to read. This time, the scene was hot, but I was still more irritated with the heroine than entertained. This man has murdered a harmless priest, burned a cathedral, and abducted her, her pregnant sister, and sister’s children, and she’s wild with lust for him? Exactly when did she lose her mind? This may be the biggest problem with novellas—there’s not enough pages to develop the sexual tension to the point where the heroine’s inevitable seduction works in the context of the “hero’s” assholery.
That said, I still enjoyed the read, and by the time we got to the HEA I was OK with it.
Next up is The Forbidden Highlander by Terri Brisbin.
The hero, James, is in love with Elizabeth, but betrothed to her best friend Ciara, who is in love with Tavis. James decides to run off with Elizabeth, who has a secret. She was “indiscreet” a year or so ago and let’s just say he won’t be seeing blood on the bed linens. She doesn’t tell him, just waits for him to figure it out for himself. Naturally, he feels she played him. Just about the time he starts thinking that maybe he ought to hear her out, her brother, sent by their laird, arrives. The brother has her snatched up by one of his men to get her out of the way, even though she’s screaming at him to back off, then he beats James into a three-day coma. He then learns that his man had to tie her up and gag her after she put up a hell of a fight. What does he do? He leaves her bound and gagged all night, refusing to let her tend her lover. He doesn’t release her until HE decides she probably needs to relieve herself.
Then he lets her go—and expects her to cook.
Now, me, if I’m Elizabeth?
But Liz? She contemplates burning dinner but decides against it. And she feels sorry for her brother when she realizes that what he did to James will probably cost him his position in the clan. Even when James finally wakes up, he’s pissing blood (meaning, literally, that while the swelling in his brain might not kill him now, he’s still bleeding internally), and STILL she isn’t angry enough for payback.
Seriously, I want the heroines to act as my proxies in these stories, and if the writer has done a good enough job (in just a few pages, no less!) that I’m LIVID on the heroine's behalf, I want her to exact some vengeance! Call me a vengeful bitch—I’ll answer—but I’m not content to leave stuff like that to karma. I want to see her hands get dirty.
The HEA is also a bit too neatly tied for my liking, but the fact that I was caught up in the story emotionally means that I’ll probably buy Brisbin’s next book, especially since it’s a Highlander story. I am so heartily sick of Regencies I might just
Rescued by the Highland Warrior
Newly widowed Celeste de Laurent is desperate. Unless she can produce evidence that she carries her husband’s baby, within a fortnight she and her sister will be cast out of her husband’s home. The heir apparent, her husband’s brother, and his greedy wife, are already spiking her wine with abortifacients to make sure. And it’s not necessary—she’s already getting a visit from Aunt Flo.
She’s been poor and hungry before and she’s not doing that again. A crazy idea comes to her—what if she finds another guy and gets herself knocked up (cuz THAT’s gonna happen while she’s on her period) and passes the kid off as her husband’s? And who better to father the child than Dougal MacKinloch, the poor man she dumped for the wealthy man she married?
Thing is, Dougal isn’t easy—he’s still grumpy about being dumped. And while he’s busy resisting her, her brother-in-law is chasing after her—and shooting at her.
There were a few logic issues in this one, starting with the notion that she was going to get herself knocked up while on her period (they did know about the rhythm method in those days)—which by the way didn’t seem to slow down the sex any—and ending with . Despite this, I liked the way things ended up . I was emotionally engaged enough that I actually shed a tear or two. I’ll watch for more Medieval and Scotty romances by this author.
I'll give the whole thing 4 stars.
September 27, 2013
Posted on Buried Under Romance
Highlanders is a nice anthology by three original voices in Scottish historical romance. In the first and last story, the romance is wonderfully developed and written with lyrical, moving prose. The second story, while nicely-written, has a slower pacing and, in my opinion, a boring story.
Brenda Joyce's The Warrior and the Rose sets up the stage for her upcoming series, and focuses more on the historical background behind Clan Dougall (the Comyn family) and Clan Donald. Lady Juliana MacDougall is a brave and strong woman, whose goal was to protect her and nephews in the midst of clan war, when Alasdair Og took them hostage. Juliana's display of courage towards Alasdair, and Alasdair's growing understanding that Juliana was just an innocent caught in the war lit the sparks between them. The conclusion of their love was sweet, and provided an interesting interlude amidst the continuing war.
In The Forbidden Highlander by Terri Brisbin, Elizabeth MacLerie is in love with James Murray, who is equally in love with her but honor bound to marry her friend, Ciera Robertson. Ciera is also miserable in the arranged marriage, as she loves Tavis MacLerie, who in turn loves her. The mismatched couple is introduced within the first pages of the story, its setup complete clamoring for a predictable ending. The resolution is naturally obvious, but having the characters already being in love by the beginning of the story does not leave a great deal to tell, aside from how much James was willing to throw away his betrothal in order to marry his love. For the above reason, I did not much like this story.
Rescued by the Highland Warrior by Michelle Willingham is my favorite out of the three. With the death of her husband, Celeste de Laurent, Lady of Eiloch, is given a fortnight by her devious brother-in-law and his wife to prove her pregnancy else be rid of a home. In order to protect herself and her younger sister from poverty, she decided to take a lover in order to conceive, eventually arriving at the MacKinloch keep, where she again meets her only love, Dougal MacKinloch. Dougal is bitter towards Celeste for abandoning a future with him, but as his clan grows fond of Celeste, he cannot help the streak of jealousy within him. While he understands Celeste's choosing to marry for security, it took him a long time to get over his bitterness and give their future another try. Celeste's mental fortitude is admirable, as is her ability to sacrifice her happiness for that of her sister's future. The love between Dougal and Celeste never diminished, and their ending was akin to two lost souls coming to find each other again; a sweet and moving story.
*ARC provided from The Romance Reviews
Highlanders is a nice anthology by three original voices in Scottish historical romance. In the first and last story, the romance is wonderfully developed and written with lyrical, moving prose. The second story, while nicely-written, has a slower pacing and, in my opinion, a boring story.
Brenda Joyce's The Warrior and the Rose sets up the stage for her upcoming series, and focuses more on the historical background behind Clan Dougall (the Comyn family) and Clan Donald. Lady Juliana MacDougall is a brave and strong woman, whose goal was to protect her and nephews in the midst of clan war, when Alasdair Og took them hostage. Juliana's display of courage towards Alasdair, and Alasdair's growing understanding that Juliana was just an innocent caught in the war lit the sparks between them. The conclusion of their love was sweet, and provided an interesting interlude amidst the continuing war.
In The Forbidden Highlander by Terri Brisbin, Elizabeth MacLerie is in love with James Murray, who is equally in love with her but honor bound to marry her friend, Ciera Robertson. Ciera is also miserable in the arranged marriage, as she loves Tavis MacLerie, who in turn loves her. The mismatched couple is introduced within the first pages of the story, its setup complete clamoring for a predictable ending. The resolution is naturally obvious, but having the characters already being in love by the beginning of the story does not leave a great deal to tell, aside from how much James was willing to throw away his betrothal in order to marry his love. For the above reason, I did not much like this story.
Rescued by the Highland Warrior by Michelle Willingham is my favorite out of the three. With the death of her husband, Celeste de Laurent, Lady of Eiloch, is given a fortnight by her devious brother-in-law and his wife to prove her pregnancy else be rid of a home. In order to protect herself and her younger sister from poverty, she decided to take a lover in order to conceive, eventually arriving at the MacKinloch keep, where she again meets her only love, Dougal MacKinloch. Dougal is bitter towards Celeste for abandoning a future with him, but as his clan grows fond of Celeste, he cannot help the streak of jealousy within him. While he understands Celeste's choosing to marry for security, it took him a long time to get over his bitterness and give their future another try. Celeste's mental fortitude is admirable, as is her ability to sacrifice her happiness for that of her sister's future. The love between Dougal and Celeste never diminished, and their ending was akin to two lost souls coming to find each other again; a sweet and moving story.
*ARC provided from The Romance Reviews
July 1, 2013
These are three short stories. They stand on their own, but have ties to other book series by the three authors.
If you enjoy Highlanders, with their kilts and swords and alpha male ways, this is the anthology for you.
The Warrior and the Rose by Brenda Joyce was a light read. I thought that Julianna fell a bit too fast in this one and I would have liked a bit more fleshing out of the romance. Not the loving scenes, but why they fell in love. As a short story, it did stand on its own, I just wanted more.
The Forbidden Highlander by Terri Brisbin had a hint of cheating in it. James is betrothed to Elizabeth's best friend. It's most definitely not a love match and his betrothed also loves someone else, someone of lower status. While James and Elizabeth didn't consummate their love, they did have a dalliance. I'm not all that fond of that sort of thing. While it ends with all parties happy (which is why we read this type of book) I would have preferred them not to have acted upon their urges until everyone was free, and I do realize that I may be in the minority about this.
Rescued by the Highland Warrior by Michelle Willingham is part of a series that I've read before. The Mackinloch Clan had some lovely moments and it was nice to see several of the characters from that series in this one. This one was my favorite of the three. Some truly heart clenching moments, and then the payoff of an HEA.
I thought the pacing in all three could have been "pepped" up a bit, but all in all it was nice to read about these Highlanders and their spunky women.
FOUR BOOKMARKS for the men in kilts!
*Thank you, NetGalley and Harlequin Historical, for the opportunity to read HIGHLANDERS.
If you enjoy Highlanders, with their kilts and swords and alpha male ways, this is the anthology for you.
The Warrior and the Rose by Brenda Joyce was a light read. I thought that Julianna fell a bit too fast in this one and I would have liked a bit more fleshing out of the romance. Not the loving scenes, but why they fell in love. As a short story, it did stand on its own, I just wanted more.
The Forbidden Highlander by Terri Brisbin had a hint of cheating in it. James is betrothed to Elizabeth's best friend. It's most definitely not a love match and his betrothed also loves someone else, someone of lower status. While James and Elizabeth didn't consummate their love, they did have a dalliance. I'm not all that fond of that sort of thing. While it ends with all parties happy (which is why we read this type of book) I would have preferred them not to have acted upon their urges until everyone was free, and I do realize that I may be in the minority about this.
Rescued by the Highland Warrior by Michelle Willingham is part of a series that I've read before. The Mackinloch Clan had some lovely moments and it was nice to see several of the characters from that series in this one. This one was my favorite of the three. Some truly heart clenching moments, and then the payoff of an HEA.
I thought the pacing in all three could have been "pepped" up a bit, but all in all it was nice to read about these Highlanders and their spunky women.
FOUR BOOKMARKS for the men in kilts!
*Thank you, NetGalley and Harlequin Historical, for the opportunity to read HIGHLANDERS.
June 2, 2013
Highlanders is a very enjoyable trio of novellas about those fierce warriors we know and love ;)
The Warrior and the Rose by Brenda Joyce
3 stars
Lady Juliana MacDougall and her sister are taken hostage by Alasdair Og, an enemy of her family. She cannot help being drawn to him though, both his strong form and his strength of character, even as she is a forced "guest."
This story is based a bit on real-life historical characters, and it's enjoyable to read Ms. Joyce's spin on their unusual meeting and "courtship." Juliana is a spirited heroine, and while I'm not sure how true-to-life that would be for her time, Alasdair certainly is helpless to resist her bold speaking and actions.
The Forbidden Highlander by Terri Brisbin
4 stars
James Murray and Elizabeth MacLerie are betrothed... unfortunately to other people. They have no choice but to be loyal to their families and clans. Or can they find another way?
Ms. Brisbin's novella is a treat. James and Elizabeth feel bound to carry through with the promises they have made, but at the same time, feel emotions that bind them together. It's lovely to see how Ms. Brisbin leads them as they try to find a way to be true to their hearts while also remaining true to their original promises.
Rescued by the Highland Warrior by Michelle Willingham
4 and a half stars
Celeste de Laurent is newly widowed, and unfortunately, her in-laws want her out. And although she'd been married, Dougal MacKinloch has always had her heart, so she seeks him out to find protection for herself and her sister.
Ms. Willingham's story about this pair of lovers feels very true--there are definitely former hurts that don't magically disappear, but there is also the strength of the passion and love that don't disappear either. A very lovely story of second chances.
Overall, I enjoyed this anthology, and look forward to reading more from all three authors!
The Warrior and the Rose by Brenda Joyce
3 stars
Lady Juliana MacDougall and her sister are taken hostage by Alasdair Og, an enemy of her family. She cannot help being drawn to him though, both his strong form and his strength of character, even as she is a forced "guest."
This story is based a bit on real-life historical characters, and it's enjoyable to read Ms. Joyce's spin on their unusual meeting and "courtship." Juliana is a spirited heroine, and while I'm not sure how true-to-life that would be for her time, Alasdair certainly is helpless to resist her bold speaking and actions.
The Forbidden Highlander by Terri Brisbin
4 stars
James Murray and Elizabeth MacLerie are betrothed... unfortunately to other people. They have no choice but to be loyal to their families and clans. Or can they find another way?
Ms. Brisbin's novella is a treat. James and Elizabeth feel bound to carry through with the promises they have made, but at the same time, feel emotions that bind them together. It's lovely to see how Ms. Brisbin leads them as they try to find a way to be true to their hearts while also remaining true to their original promises.
Rescued by the Highland Warrior by Michelle Willingham
4 and a half stars
Celeste de Laurent is newly widowed, and unfortunately, her in-laws want her out. And although she'd been married, Dougal MacKinloch has always had her heart, so she seeks him out to find protection for herself and her sister.
Ms. Willingham's story about this pair of lovers feels very true--there are definitely former hurts that don't magically disappear, but there is also the strength of the passion and love that don't disappear either. A very lovely story of second chances.
Overall, I enjoyed this anthology, and look forward to reading more from all three authors!
December 20, 2013
Highlanders is an anthology of three novellas by as many writers of historical romance novels published by Harlequin, in this case we can read about our beloved Highlanders.
The stories are part of different series written by Brenda Joyce, Terri Brisbin and Michelle Willingham, but the nobels can also be read as a standalone short stories.
The Warrior And The Rose by Brenda Joyce
Lady Juliana MacDougall prays for her loved ones to survive battle against Robert Bruce... but the battle comes to her when her lands are attacked by a band of Highlanders, including a man wearing the colors of her clan’s worst enemy. Taken hostage by Alasdair Og, Juliana quickly learns he’s as exceptional a lover as he is a ruthless warrior. But how can she ever love Alasdair when he’s her blood enemy?
Of the three this is the story that I preferred, I liked a lot both the protagonists Juliana and Alasdair and their story. She is intelligent, determined, brave and impulsive; Alasdair is without any scruples when he must defend his clan, loyal, polite and very compelling. If he puts in the head one thing, he makes everything to get it, and in this case bis target is on Juliana.
Short novel, with a very passionate story, well written.
The Forbidden Highlander (The MacLeries #6.5), by Terri Brisbin
James and Elizabeth MacLerie is undeniable, but they are tornHonor-bound by an arranged betrothal, James Murray never anticipated falling in love with his intended bride’s dearest friend instead. The passion between between love and loyalty to their clans….
I read about this series of Brisbin from the last books of it, but deserves to be appreciated from the beginning. The MacLerie have their chieftain: The Beast of the Highland and already by his nickname you can understand how James Murray's decision not to marry the women who is tied by agreements between the clans can be hard to take. I prefer the character of James, more assertive since the beginning of the story, while I think Elisabeth is a little too hesitant, but at a distance I enjoyed her too. Their story is very nice, to be read without a doubt for readers who enjoy Ms Brisbin; her characters are always so conflicted, but the stories of love between them passionate and romantic.
Rescued By The Highland Warrior (MacKinloch Clan #3.5), by Michelle Willingham
Celeste de Laurent is determined to never again live in poverty. After sacrificing love for a secure marriage, she now stands to lose everything as a widow. Her only hope is to bear an heir - and what better man to father her child, and save her from a terrible fate, than Dougal MacKinloch, the only man she ever loved?
This story is the one I liked less, with the brilliant idea with whom Celeste wanted to save her propierty. Dougal is an amazing male character, strong, a little dark, but irresistible, and after the pain of the past due to Celeste, the mere fact that she thought about him as the first candidate to conceive a "fake" heir it's too bad.
The story is well written, Ms Willingham is really talented at telling stories of love so passionate, but I didn't love Celeste and this fact has influenced my opinion about the novel a lot.
Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin for the book.
RATING: 3.5 stars
Highlanders è un'antologia di tre novelle di altrettante scrittrici di romanzi historical romance pubblicati dalla Harlequin, in questo caso la fanno da padrone i nostri amati Highlanders.
I racconti si inseriscono nel panorama delle diverse serie scritte da Brenda Joyce, Terri Brisbin e Michelle Willingham, ma possono si possono leggere anche come brevi storie a sé stanti.
The Warrior and the Rose by Brenda Joyce
Lady Juliana MacDougall prega che i suoi cari possano fare ritorno sani e salvi dalla battaglia contro Robert Bruce... Ma la battaglia la raggiunge quando le sue terre vengono attaccate da un gruppo di Highlander, nel quale è presente un uomo che indossa i colori del peggior nemico del suo clan. Presa in ostaggio da Alasdair Og, Juliana ben presto scopre che oltre a essere uno spietato guerriero è anche uno straordinario amante. Ma come può Juliana amare Alasdair che è il suo nemico mortale?
Dei tre questo è il racconto che ho preferito, mi sono piaciuti molto sia i protagonisti Juliana e Alasdair, che la loro storia. Lei è intelligente, determinata, coraggiosa e impulsiva; Alasdair è senza scrupoli quando deve difendere il suo clan, leale, gentile e molto attraente. Se si mette in testa una cosa fa di tutto per ottenerla e in questo caso ha puntato Juliana.
Novella breve, ma appassionante e ben scritta.
The Forbidden Highlander (The MacLeries #6.5) by Terri Brisbin
Fidanzato a una donna in base a un accordo di mutuo interesse tra clan, James Murray non si sarebbe mai aspettato di innamorarsi, invece, della più cara amica della sua futura sposa. La passione che nasce tra James ed Elisabeth MacLerie non si può negare, ma entrambi si ritrovano combattuti tra il loro amore e la lealtà verso i loro clan.
Ho imparato a conoscere questa serie della Brisbin dai libri più recenti, ma merita di essere apprezzata sin dall'inizio. I MacLerie hanno un capoclan di tutto rispetto: The Beast of the Highland e, già dal suo soprannome, si può capire quanto la decisione di James Murray, di non voler sposare la donna a cui è legato dagli accordi tra i clan, possa essere difficile da prendere. Preferisco il personaggio di James, più deciso sin dall'inizio della storia, mentre Elisabeth l'ho trovata un po' troppo titubante, ma alla distanza mi è piaciuta molto anche lei. Bellina la loro storia, da leggere senza dubbio per i lettori appassionati della Brisbin; i suoi personaggi sono sempre molto combattuti, ma le storie d'amore tra di loro appassionate e romantiche.
Rescued by the Highlander Warrior (MacKinloch Clan #3.5) by Michelle Willingham
Celeste de Laurent è determinata a non dover più affrontare la vita in condizioni di povertà. Dopo aver sacrificato l'amore in cambio di un matrimonio sicuro, adesso si ritrova, vedova, con il rischio di perdere tutto. La sua unica speranza è di mettere al mondo un erede... e quale uomo migliore, per mettere al mondo un figlio, e salvarla da un orribile destino, che Dougal MacKinloch, l'unico uomo che abbia mai amato?
Questo racconto, invece, è quello che ho gradito un po' meno, visto la "brillante" idea con la quale Celeste voleva salvare l'eredità lasciatale dal marito.
Dougal è un personaggio maschile stupendo, un bel tenebroso, un po' scostante, ma irresistibile e dopo la delusione del passato a causa di Celeste, il solo fatto che lei abbia pensato a lui come primo candidato per concepire un erede "falso" mi è sembrata un po' una cosa meschina.
Il racconto è ben scritto, la Willingham è davvero bravissima nel raccontare storie d'amore così appassionate, ma a me Celeste proprio non è andata giù.
Ringrazio Netgalley e la Harlequin per il libro.
VOTO: 3.5 stelle
The stories are part of different series written by Brenda Joyce, Terri Brisbin and Michelle Willingham, but the nobels can also be read as a standalone short stories.
The Warrior And The Rose by Brenda Joyce
Lady Juliana MacDougall prays for her loved ones to survive battle against Robert Bruce... but the battle comes to her when her lands are attacked by a band of Highlanders, including a man wearing the colors of her clan’s worst enemy. Taken hostage by Alasdair Og, Juliana quickly learns he’s as exceptional a lover as he is a ruthless warrior. But how can she ever love Alasdair when he’s her blood enemy?
Of the three this is the story that I preferred, I liked a lot both the protagonists Juliana and Alasdair and their story. She is intelligent, determined, brave and impulsive; Alasdair is without any scruples when he must defend his clan, loyal, polite and very compelling. If he puts in the head one thing, he makes everything to get it, and in this case bis target is on Juliana.
Short novel, with a very passionate story, well written.
The Forbidden Highlander (The MacLeries #6.5), by Terri Brisbin
James and Elizabeth MacLerie is undeniable, but they are tornHonor-bound by an arranged betrothal, James Murray never anticipated falling in love with his intended bride’s dearest friend instead. The passion between between love and loyalty to their clans….
I read about this series of Brisbin from the last books of it, but deserves to be appreciated from the beginning. The MacLerie have their chieftain: The Beast of the Highland and already by his nickname you can understand how James Murray's decision not to marry the women who is tied by agreements between the clans can be hard to take. I prefer the character of James, more assertive since the beginning of the story, while I think Elisabeth is a little too hesitant, but at a distance I enjoyed her too. Their story is very nice, to be read without a doubt for readers who enjoy Ms Brisbin; her characters are always so conflicted, but the stories of love between them passionate and romantic.
Rescued By The Highland Warrior (MacKinloch Clan #3.5), by Michelle Willingham
Celeste de Laurent is determined to never again live in poverty. After sacrificing love for a secure marriage, she now stands to lose everything as a widow. Her only hope is to bear an heir - and what better man to father her child, and save her from a terrible fate, than Dougal MacKinloch, the only man she ever loved?
This story is the one I liked less, with the brilliant idea with whom Celeste wanted to save her propierty. Dougal is an amazing male character, strong, a little dark, but irresistible, and after the pain of the past due to Celeste, the mere fact that she thought about him as the first candidate to conceive a "fake" heir it's too bad.
The story is well written, Ms Willingham is really talented at telling stories of love so passionate, but I didn't love Celeste and this fact has influenced my opinion about the novel a lot.
Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin for the book.
RATING: 3.5 stars
Highlanders è un'antologia di tre novelle di altrettante scrittrici di romanzi historical romance pubblicati dalla Harlequin, in questo caso la fanno da padrone i nostri amati Highlanders.
I racconti si inseriscono nel panorama delle diverse serie scritte da Brenda Joyce, Terri Brisbin e Michelle Willingham, ma possono si possono leggere anche come brevi storie a sé stanti.
The Warrior and the Rose by Brenda Joyce
Lady Juliana MacDougall prega che i suoi cari possano fare ritorno sani e salvi dalla battaglia contro Robert Bruce... Ma la battaglia la raggiunge quando le sue terre vengono attaccate da un gruppo di Highlander, nel quale è presente un uomo che indossa i colori del peggior nemico del suo clan. Presa in ostaggio da Alasdair Og, Juliana ben presto scopre che oltre a essere uno spietato guerriero è anche uno straordinario amante. Ma come può Juliana amare Alasdair che è il suo nemico mortale?
Dei tre questo è il racconto che ho preferito, mi sono piaciuti molto sia i protagonisti Juliana e Alasdair, che la loro storia. Lei è intelligente, determinata, coraggiosa e impulsiva; Alasdair è senza scrupoli quando deve difendere il suo clan, leale, gentile e molto attraente. Se si mette in testa una cosa fa di tutto per ottenerla e in questo caso ha puntato Juliana.
Novella breve, ma appassionante e ben scritta.
The Forbidden Highlander (The MacLeries #6.5) by Terri Brisbin
Fidanzato a una donna in base a un accordo di mutuo interesse tra clan, James Murray non si sarebbe mai aspettato di innamorarsi, invece, della più cara amica della sua futura sposa. La passione che nasce tra James ed Elisabeth MacLerie non si può negare, ma entrambi si ritrovano combattuti tra il loro amore e la lealtà verso i loro clan.
Ho imparato a conoscere questa serie della Brisbin dai libri più recenti, ma merita di essere apprezzata sin dall'inizio. I MacLerie hanno un capoclan di tutto rispetto: The Beast of the Highland e, già dal suo soprannome, si può capire quanto la decisione di James Murray, di non voler sposare la donna a cui è legato dagli accordi tra i clan, possa essere difficile da prendere. Preferisco il personaggio di James, più deciso sin dall'inizio della storia, mentre Elisabeth l'ho trovata un po' troppo titubante, ma alla distanza mi è piaciuta molto anche lei. Bellina la loro storia, da leggere senza dubbio per i lettori appassionati della Brisbin; i suoi personaggi sono sempre molto combattuti, ma le storie d'amore tra di loro appassionate e romantiche.
Rescued by the Highlander Warrior (MacKinloch Clan #3.5) by Michelle Willingham
Celeste de Laurent è determinata a non dover più affrontare la vita in condizioni di povertà. Dopo aver sacrificato l'amore in cambio di un matrimonio sicuro, adesso si ritrova, vedova, con il rischio di perdere tutto. La sua unica speranza è di mettere al mondo un erede... e quale uomo migliore, per mettere al mondo un figlio, e salvarla da un orribile destino, che Dougal MacKinloch, l'unico uomo che abbia mai amato?
Questo racconto, invece, è quello che ho gradito un po' meno, visto la "brillante" idea con la quale Celeste voleva salvare l'eredità lasciatale dal marito.
Dougal è un personaggio maschile stupendo, un bel tenebroso, un po' scostante, ma irresistibile e dopo la delusione del passato a causa di Celeste, il solo fatto che lei abbia pensato a lui come primo candidato per concepire un erede "falso" mi è sembrata un po' una cosa meschina.
Il racconto è ben scritto, la Willingham è davvero bravissima nel raccontare storie d'amore così appassionate, ma a me Celeste proprio non è andata giù.
Ringrazio Netgalley e la Harlequin per il libro.
VOTO: 3.5 stelle
February 6, 2018
Read for The MacLerie Clan #6.5 Teri Brisbane
June 7, 2020
Only read The Forbidden Highlander - think it more logically should be The MacLerie Clan #5.5
Read
January 2, 2024Chatham library
March 4, 2017
The Warrior and the Rose - Brenda Joyce - 3 out of 5 - The MacDougal and the Donald clan have always opposed each other and even now stand on different sides of a conflict regarding who will be king of Scotland. In the midst of this war, Alisdair Og of clan Donald seiges Juliana MacDougal’s castle and takes her and her sister and nephews as hostages, demanding a ransom of her older brother. But Alisdair had an alternative motive, having fallen in love with Juliana. She’s conflicted about her feelings - desiring him at the same time as she insists that they remain enemies. This was a pretty great little story - the angst comes mostly from the desperate situations of war, men leaving and not being sure they’ll return and the Romeo & Juliet type situation with two members of feuding families falling in love. I was a bit disconcerted with how quickly Juliana jumps into bed with Alisdair and also how quick and spontaneous it all was. It was kind of passionate, but not very romantic. At that point it felt too much like insta-lust. We also never get to experience Alisdair’s POV, so at times, it’s really difficult to understand his actions or even to know whether he loves Juliana or not. I’m still not completely sure if I liked that or not.
The Forbidden Highlander - Terri Brisbin - 3 out of 5 - This picks up where #5 in the series left off. We have Elizabeth MacLerie, Ciara’s friend, who elopes with James Murray, heir to the Murray clan and Ciara’s former betrothed (before he ran off). So both of them dishonored themselves, their families and risked their lives to be together. But Elizabeth didn’t mention to James that she’d already lost her virginity and when he found out, he wasn’t so pleased. And Dougal, Elizabeth’s brother isn’t happy about their elopement either, so things get a bit worse when he shows up. This was okay. It was interesting to see the other side of duty and how sometimes when you really want those characters to just seize happiness, you don’t realize how very selfish it ends up being. That’s kind of the case here. This also holds that double standard where James gets all pissy about Elizabeth not being a virgin - it’s typical of the historical genre and more accurate of the attitude of the time period I suppose, but I don’t really care for it. The story itself is pretty enjoyable, but I could definitely see how this might be a confusing mess if you hadn’t read the first part of it (Book # 5 in the series…).
Rescued by the Highlander - Michelle Willingham - 4 out of 5 - Lady Celeste once had to choose between two men - one she loved the other she knew could offer her a lavish life, where she’d never again know poverty. She chose the practical choice to save herself and her sister, leaving Dougal Mackinloch heartbroken. 2 years later, after the death of her husband, Celeste is about to lose her home, unless she can prove that she carries a child. So she seeks out Dougal to help her, hoping that he’ll give her a child that she can use to keep her home. Only she finds Dougal not so ready to forgive her and she soon realizes that her plan will never work with a man like Dougal. The author writes a very angsty and very engaging story. She also manages to walk the fine line with the heroine - I honestly still don’t know if I disliked her for her seemingly mercenary attitude or if I like her despite it, especially given her reasons. So probably, because of all of this, Dougal’s anger feels absolutely justified, despite the fact that he’s overly stubborn about it. And despite how happy I was at their finally forgiving each other, I still ended the story feeling that she hadn’t quite apologized enough for hurting him. Delightfully entertaining.
The Forbidden Highlander - Terri Brisbin - 3 out of 5 - This picks up where #5 in the series left off. We have Elizabeth MacLerie, Ciara’s friend, who elopes with James Murray, heir to the Murray clan and Ciara’s former betrothed (before he ran off). So both of them dishonored themselves, their families and risked their lives to be together. But Elizabeth didn’t mention to James that she’d already lost her virginity and when he found out, he wasn’t so pleased. And Dougal, Elizabeth’s brother isn’t happy about their elopement either, so things get a bit worse when he shows up. This was okay. It was interesting to see the other side of duty and how sometimes when you really want those characters to just seize happiness, you don’t realize how very selfish it ends up being. That’s kind of the case here. This also holds that double standard where James gets all pissy about Elizabeth not being a virgin - it’s typical of the historical genre and more accurate of the attitude of the time period I suppose, but I don’t really care for it. The story itself is pretty enjoyable, but I could definitely see how this might be a confusing mess if you hadn’t read the first part of it (Book # 5 in the series…).
Rescued by the Highlander - Michelle Willingham - 4 out of 5 - Lady Celeste once had to choose between two men - one she loved the other she knew could offer her a lavish life, where she’d never again know poverty. She chose the practical choice to save herself and her sister, leaving Dougal Mackinloch heartbroken. 2 years later, after the death of her husband, Celeste is about to lose her home, unless she can prove that she carries a child. So she seeks out Dougal to help her, hoping that he’ll give her a child that she can use to keep her home. Only she finds Dougal not so ready to forgive her and she soon realizes that her plan will never work with a man like Dougal. The author writes a very angsty and very engaging story. She also manages to walk the fine line with the heroine - I honestly still don’t know if I disliked her for her seemingly mercenary attitude or if I like her despite it, especially given her reasons. So probably, because of all of this, Dougal’s anger feels absolutely justified, despite the fact that he’s overly stubborn about it. And despite how happy I was at their finally forgiving each other, I still ended the story feeling that she hadn’t quite apologized enough for hurting him. Delightfully entertaining.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2013
I am a sucker for a Highlander novel, so I was delighted to review this anthology. Normally, I only read anthologies when they include stories that belong to a series that I already read. All three of these novels are stand alones and although I have heard of the authors, they are not any that I remember reading before.
The common thread between all these stories is that the couples are not supposed to fall in love. For whatever reason, their relationship is forbidden or doomed.
In The Warrior and the Rose, Lady Juliana and Alasdair Og (I had a really hard time getting past his name) meet when he lays siege to her brother-in-law’s home. Their families are at war and Alasdair takes her and her family as hostages. They quickly fall into lust and then into love although his father hates her because of her family.
Of the three stories, this is the one I liked the best. I liked both Juliana and Alasdair who were not responsible for the feud between their families. Unlike the other couples, these two did not bring their problems on themselves.
The couple in The Forbidden Highlander, however, are responsible for their problems.
Although betrothed to her best friend, James in falls in love with Elizabeth and she returns his feelings. It does not really matter to me that his fiance is also in love with another man, I have a hard time getting past the dishonesty in the relationship.
To compound it, instead of standing up to the laird, the couple run away together and hide. They plan to marry and present their relationship as a fait accompli. Of course, things never run as smoothly as hoped.
I just couldn’t like either one of these characters. I realize the laird had the power of life and death over them, but I felt they both acted cowardly.
I guess I have read too many Highlander novels where the male protagonist was the laird, so I am not used to reading about someone who has so little power.
The final novel, Rescued by a Highland Warrior, is not as easy to classify.
Celeste chose another man over the one she truly loved simply because he was able to support her financially. When she is widowed, she returns to Dougal because she needs him to get her pregnant so she will not lose her inheritance.
She seems to be a thoroughly unlikable character.
However, Celeste was raised in poverty. She lost one sibling to starvation and is the only thing standing between her sister and life in the streets. She is terrified of returning to the life she knew as a child.
I couldn’t help but feel sorry for her . . . and for Dougal.
Dougal always loved her and was crushed when she chose another man. His pride was hurt when he realized she didn’t trust him to provide for her.
I am glad they end up back together because they do love each other. I just wish Celeste had not hurt Dougal so badly to start with.
If you are a fan of any of these authors, I recommend you get this book. However, I don’t think you should let it be the introduction to their writing if you are like me and unfamiliar with their previous works. From reading reviews of their other books, I know these are excellent authors. I just don’t think this anthology does them justice.
Ratings:
Overall: 3
Sensuality level: 3
The common thread between all these stories is that the couples are not supposed to fall in love. For whatever reason, their relationship is forbidden or doomed.
In The Warrior and the Rose, Lady Juliana and Alasdair Og (I had a really hard time getting past his name) meet when he lays siege to her brother-in-law’s home. Their families are at war and Alasdair takes her and her family as hostages. They quickly fall into lust and then into love although his father hates her because of her family.
Of the three stories, this is the one I liked the best. I liked both Juliana and Alasdair who were not responsible for the feud between their families. Unlike the other couples, these two did not bring their problems on themselves.
The couple in The Forbidden Highlander, however, are responsible for their problems.
Although betrothed to her best friend, James in falls in love with Elizabeth and she returns his feelings. It does not really matter to me that his fiance is also in love with another man, I have a hard time getting past the dishonesty in the relationship.
To compound it, instead of standing up to the laird, the couple run away together and hide. They plan to marry and present their relationship as a fait accompli. Of course, things never run as smoothly as hoped.
I just couldn’t like either one of these characters. I realize the laird had the power of life and death over them, but I felt they both acted cowardly.
I guess I have read too many Highlander novels where the male protagonist was the laird, so I am not used to reading about someone who has so little power.
The final novel, Rescued by a Highland Warrior, is not as easy to classify.
Celeste chose another man over the one she truly loved simply because he was able to support her financially. When she is widowed, she returns to Dougal because she needs him to get her pregnant so she will not lose her inheritance.
She seems to be a thoroughly unlikable character.
However, Celeste was raised in poverty. She lost one sibling to starvation and is the only thing standing between her sister and life in the streets. She is terrified of returning to the life she knew as a child.
I couldn’t help but feel sorry for her . . . and for Dougal.
Dougal always loved her and was crushed when she chose another man. His pride was hurt when he realized she didn’t trust him to provide for her.
I am glad they end up back together because they do love each other. I just wish Celeste had not hurt Dougal so badly to start with.
If you are a fan of any of these authors, I recommend you get this book. However, I don’t think you should let it be the introduction to their writing if you are like me and unfamiliar with their previous works. From reading reviews of their other books, I know these are excellent authors. I just don’t think this anthology does them justice.
Ratings:
Overall: 3
Sensuality level: 3
June 4, 2013
Highlanders was a wonderful highlander anthology. Hot Scottish warriors and wonderful romance...what's not to like?
"The Warrior and the Rose" was a prequel to The Rose in the Storm. Juliana was an independent heroine who knew her own heart and wasn't afraid to follow it. Alasdair was a wonderful hero who was loyal to his cause, but even more loyal to the woman he loves. The romance was sweet and clean. I really liked this novella.
"The Forbidden Highlander" was a story of forbidden love. This one was a little shaky for me. For a couple who was in love enough to defy a betrothal, they weren't sure of each other's love. It seemed like they doubted each other very quickly. But, other than that, it was a romance about the overwhelming power of love. The romance was steamy. And, in the end, I like the story.
"Rescued by the Highland Warrior" was a story of second chances. I wasn't sure what to think of Celeste at first. I didn't get why she would give up Dougal. I know she wanted to protect her sister, but why did she doubt that Dougal would be able to do just that? And I thought she had a lot of never to ask (or force) him to help her after rejecting him. So, I stared off not liking her. But, throughout the story, she humbled herself and realized how wrong she was. I ended up being okay with her. Dougal was lovable immediately. The romance was well done. And, after getting over my initial frustration with Celeste, I enjoyed the story.
Highlanders was a wonderful highland anthology. If you like sexy highlanders, you'll want to read this.
*Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin for a copy!
"The Warrior and the Rose" was a prequel to The Rose in the Storm. Juliana was an independent heroine who knew her own heart and wasn't afraid to follow it. Alasdair was a wonderful hero who was loyal to his cause, but even more loyal to the woman he loves. The romance was sweet and clean. I really liked this novella.
"The Forbidden Highlander" was a story of forbidden love. This one was a little shaky for me. For a couple who was in love enough to defy a betrothal, they weren't sure of each other's love. It seemed like they doubted each other very quickly. But, other than that, it was a romance about the overwhelming power of love. The romance was steamy. And, in the end, I like the story.
"Rescued by the Highland Warrior" was a story of second chances. I wasn't sure what to think of Celeste at first. I didn't get why she would give up Dougal. I know she wanted to protect her sister, but why did she doubt that Dougal would be able to do just that? And I thought she had a lot of never to ask (or force) him to help her after rejecting him. So, I stared off not liking her. But, throughout the story, she humbled herself and realized how wrong she was. I ended up being okay with her. Dougal was lovable immediately. The romance was well done. And, after getting over my initial frustration with Celeste, I enjoyed the story.
Highlanders was a wonderful highland anthology. If you like sexy highlanders, you'll want to read this.
*Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin for a copy!
May 14, 2013
The Warrior and the Rose by Brenda Joyce, prequel to A ROSE IN THE STORM.
This is the story of Juliana and Alasdair. The two families have been feuding for years, but it comes to a head when Alasdair kills a priest in front of Juliana and later abducts her. However, the Highlands are known for breeding passion from strife.
The Forbidden Highlander by Terri Brisbin, book 9 in the MacLerie series.
When James is on the path to marry Elizabeth's best friend Ciara, both must make desperate choices to ensure everyone's happiness. Ciara is in love with Tavis. I like that this is not the typical romance where the hero and heroine develop their feelings slowly...they're already there. It brings a different sort of tension to the story that is nice.
Rescued by the Highland Warrior by Michelle Willingham, book 4.5 in the MacKinloch Clan series.
When her husband dies, Celeste must seek refuge from former love, Dougal. After she turned down his marriage proposal two years ago, though, Dougal is not inclined to get involved with her again. Well, love isn't such an easy thing to tame. This is a story of second and third chances at love.
The anthology as a whole flows well. Each story has intrigue and suspense with lots of romance! If you're looking for some quick reads that show a range of the Highlands, this is for you.
This is the story of Juliana and Alasdair. The two families have been feuding for years, but it comes to a head when Alasdair kills a priest in front of Juliana and later abducts her. However, the Highlands are known for breeding passion from strife.
The Forbidden Highlander by Terri Brisbin, book 9 in the MacLerie series.
When James is on the path to marry Elizabeth's best friend Ciara, both must make desperate choices to ensure everyone's happiness. Ciara is in love with Tavis. I like that this is not the typical romance where the hero and heroine develop their feelings slowly...they're already there. It brings a different sort of tension to the story that is nice.
Rescued by the Highland Warrior by Michelle Willingham, book 4.5 in the MacKinloch Clan series.
When her husband dies, Celeste must seek refuge from former love, Dougal. After she turned down his marriage proposal two years ago, though, Dougal is not inclined to get involved with her again. Well, love isn't such an easy thing to tame. This is a story of second and third chances at love.
The anthology as a whole flows well. Each story has intrigue and suspense with lots of romance! If you're looking for some quick reads that show a range of the Highlands, this is for you.
June 3, 2013
The Warrior and the Rose by Brenda Joyce, prequel to A ROSE IN THE STORM. This story really Had a true life feeling to it and Brenda Joyce really shows that in her Writing.. Juliana is a very spirited Heroine making Alistar unable to resist her bold charms.
The Forbidden Highlander by Terri Brisbin, book 9 in the MacLerie series. Let me first say that i have never read a Terri Brisbin book. Her Story about The mismatched couples is introduced within the first pages of the story. She did a wonderful Job Portraying it and look Foward to more of her readings now.. I have already ordered a few more of her books.. New FAN NOW!!!!
Rescued by the Highland Warrior by Michelle Willingham, book 5 in the MacKinloch series. When her husband dies, Celeste seeks out her former love, Dougal. she had previously turned down his marriage proposal two years ago. This story is how 2nd and third chances can be made when it comes to love!! I loved Michelles writing and I have read all of the Mackinloch Series.
Each story really does intrigue you and makes you wanting more!!! GREAT JOB to all three ladies..
The Forbidden Highlander by Terri Brisbin, book 9 in the MacLerie series. Let me first say that i have never read a Terri Brisbin book. Her Story about The mismatched couples is introduced within the first pages of the story. She did a wonderful Job Portraying it and look Foward to more of her readings now.. I have already ordered a few more of her books.. New FAN NOW!!!!
Rescued by the Highland Warrior by Michelle Willingham, book 5 in the MacKinloch series. When her husband dies, Celeste seeks out her former love, Dougal. she had previously turned down his marriage proposal two years ago. This story is how 2nd and third chances can be made when it comes to love!! I loved Michelles writing and I have read all of the Mackinloch Series.
Each story really does intrigue you and makes you wanting more!!! GREAT JOB to all three ladies..
June 22, 2013
Anthologies aren’t my normal fare, but honestly, how can I go wrong with one titled Highlanders? Honestly, they are my favorite subject! I sat back. prepared to enjoy and this is what I found…
The Warrior and the Rose
Juliana MacDougall and her sister hid in the Cathedral as her guards were brutally killed and then, as she was trying to flee, Alasdair MacDonald, a long time enemy, entered and all hell broke loose! He took the bishop out, claiming he was a spy and had him murdered in cold blood, then set fire to the Cathedral. His parting words to her as her brother’s ships came into view were, “I am sorry you were here today.” She wanted nothing but revenge.
This was by far my favorite of the three novellas. I enjoyed the way Juliana fought her feelings for Alasdair, kicking and screaming all the way. I loved the emotions that Ms. Joyce was able to wring from me in such a short period of time. She made me love a man and cheer on a doomed love. The passion of Alasdair and Juliana was, well, just steaming hot! I wanted this novella to go on much longer.
For the full review, please go to http://www.thewindowseat13.com/2013/0...
The Warrior and the Rose
Juliana MacDougall and her sister hid in the Cathedral as her guards were brutally killed and then, as she was trying to flee, Alasdair MacDonald, a long time enemy, entered and all hell broke loose! He took the bishop out, claiming he was a spy and had him murdered in cold blood, then set fire to the Cathedral. His parting words to her as her brother’s ships came into view were, “I am sorry you were here today.” She wanted nothing but revenge.
This was by far my favorite of the three novellas. I enjoyed the way Juliana fought her feelings for Alasdair, kicking and screaming all the way. I loved the emotions that Ms. Joyce was able to wring from me in such a short period of time. She made me love a man and cheer on a doomed love. The passion of Alasdair and Juliana was, well, just steaming hot! I wanted this novella to go on much longer.
For the full review, please go to http://www.thewindowseat13.com/2013/0...
May 27, 2013
I don't think I give out many 5 star ratings but this book hooked me and I finished it in one day.
It melted your heart and twisted your stomach into knots. I could not put it down. Dinner was late for I was so deep into the story that I did not realize what time it was. The book got finished before dinner even got started.
I have read Michelle Willingham's stories in the past and loved them. I keep going back for more for I loved them and was not let down with the stories.
I have read a few from Terri Brisbin and Brenda Joyce. I will be honest I normally don't get that many of theirs. Maybe now after reading this one I might have to change that.
These three stories draws you in. There was no letting go.
I am glad Michelle's story was last. (Normally I would love her story first)Rescued by the Highland Warrior just pulled and twisted those strings attached to the heart and stomach. I had to hold my breath a few times. The chance at second love makes it even better.
I have to thank these ladies for a set of well written stories. I really enjoyed them.
It melted your heart and twisted your stomach into knots. I could not put it down. Dinner was late for I was so deep into the story that I did not realize what time it was. The book got finished before dinner even got started.
I have read Michelle Willingham's stories in the past and loved them. I keep going back for more for I loved them and was not let down with the stories.
I have read a few from Terri Brisbin and Brenda Joyce. I will be honest I normally don't get that many of theirs. Maybe now after reading this one I might have to change that.
These three stories draws you in. There was no letting go.
I am glad Michelle's story was last. (Normally I would love her story first)Rescued by the Highland Warrior just pulled and twisted those strings attached to the heart and stomach. I had to hold my breath a few times. The chance at second love makes it even better.
I have to thank these ladies for a set of well written stories. I really enjoyed them.
June 2, 2013
Michelle has done it again. She has the ability to send you to another time and place. Her descriptions of characters and locations really make you feel that you are there. Her warriors are truly strong and dedicated to family, home and clan. They have shown they will die to protect what is theirs. This also goes for the women. Her story lines are always believable. Not every family was loving. It was all about taking what you wanted. Celeste was torn about what she needed to do for Mellisande, her only local family. That meant she had to give up what was dear to her heart. Dougal was a true hard headed highlander. As a youngest son he was always overlooked which made him self conscious. They almost lost their chance to a life together. Sometimes you have to give to get. While this is part of a series it is also a stand alone story. You don't have to read the earlier books. But...It will make you want to. I can't wait for her Vikings.
July 21, 2020
So the main storyline wasn’t bad, I kinda liked it and the characters was pretty likeable. But!
The story was too fast, we couldn’t know our hero and heroine well. Their relationship... hiw can I explain it? The writer said they fell in love after a few nights... they didn’t talk much, we didn’t know them, their true feelings. They are good people, that’s it.. ok.
At the beginning my main problem was the overcomplicated historical facts. I love historical romances, but this was waaay too much for me. I don’t care historical things, who is who and what clans we have... I care about the lovestory! It was too complex. The many name and who is with who ruined the story, I can’t enjoy this kind of writing method, sorry.
This book could have been a very nice romance... It wasn’t bad, but I expected more, much more.
The story was too fast, we couldn’t know our hero and heroine well. Their relationship... hiw can I explain it? The writer said they fell in love after a few nights... they didn’t talk much, we didn’t know them, their true feelings. They are good people, that’s it.. ok.
At the beginning my main problem was the overcomplicated historical facts. I love historical romances, but this was waaay too much for me. I don’t care historical things, who is who and what clans we have... I care about the lovestory! It was too complex. The many name and who is with who ruined the story, I can’t enjoy this kind of writing method, sorry.
This book could have been a very nice romance... It wasn’t bad, but I expected more, much more.
Read
February 9, 2017From three fabulous authors comes a book direct from history.
Hostages. Betrothals. Heirs. Straight from their historical analytically minds come three compelling novellas. Each has a different plot. Each shares the scenery. And each proves that no matter the era, true love will find the way. Especially in the pens of notorious authors ready to unleash their own brand of justice. The highlands are sacred. While it is true the medieval era was not altogether friendly, each of these fine authors take the brash and add a hefty doe of woman to bring about stories that touch the heartstrings.
Harlequin
June 2013
9781459243255
The Warrior and The Rose by Brenda Joyce
The Forbidden Highlander by Terri Brisban
Rescued by the Highland Warrior by Michelle Willingham
-the bookworm
Hostages. Betrothals. Heirs. Straight from their historical analytically minds come three compelling novellas. Each has a different plot. Each shares the scenery. And each proves that no matter the era, true love will find the way. Especially in the pens of notorious authors ready to unleash their own brand of justice. The highlands are sacred. While it is true the medieval era was not altogether friendly, each of these fine authors take the brash and add a hefty doe of woman to bring about stories that touch the heartstrings.
Harlequin
June 2013
9781459243255
The Warrior and The Rose by Brenda Joyce
The Forbidden Highlander by Terri Brisban
Rescued by the Highland Warrior by Michelle Willingham
-the bookworm
July 20, 2016
Celeste de Laurent is determined to never again live in poverty. After sacrificing love for a secure marriage, she now stands to lose everything as a widow. Her only hope is to bear an heir - and what better man to father her child, and save her from a terrible fate, than Dougal MacKinloch, the only man she ever loved?
I cannot help but feel cheated by the short story of Dougal and Celeste.
For me Dougal deserved a better story, a full story. He was present throughout the series and was a lonely and quiet lad.
It was not enough for me that he got his happy ending. I wanted to read about the times when he was courting Celeste and how they separated to make sense for their getting back together.
I feel that the MacKinloch series didn't get the same attention like the MacEgan lads.
I cannot help but feel cheated by the short story of Dougal and Celeste.
For me Dougal deserved a better story, a full story. He was present throughout the series and was a lonely and quiet lad.
It was not enough for me that he got his happy ending. I wanted to read about the times when he was courting Celeste and how they separated to make sense for their getting back together.
I feel that the MacKinloch series didn't get the same attention like the MacEgan lads.
July 5, 2013
I really liked this book. There were two stories in here (The Forbidden Highlander by Terri Brisbin and Rescued by the Highland Warrior by Michelle Willingham) with characters from their other books that I wondered about and wanted to know what happened to them. I got the answers, happily, from this book. I also thoroughly enjoyed The Warrior and the Rose by Brenda Joyce and want to read the next book in this series.
Yep, an enjoyable read!
Yep, an enjoyable read!
June 18, 2013
Amo i romanzi storici e amo gli Highlanders; tuttavia questa raccolta per me è stata una deluzione. Non mi ha trasmesso niente. E dubito che sia per la lunghezza delle storie, stavolta sono proprio le trame e i personaggi a non funzionare. Delusione.
Si ringrazia NetGalley e Harlequin per la gentile preview!
Voto: 2 stelle
Si ringrazia NetGalley e Harlequin per la gentile preview!
Voto: 2 stelle
October 26, 2015
I only read the story by Michelle Willingham, "Rescued by the Highland Warrior," since this tale is the only part of the MacKinloch Clan series that I hadn't yet read. Of all the stories in this series, this is the one I liked the least. Maybe because it was a short story, but I didn't feel as involved with either of the characters as I have in previous books by Ms. Willingham.
June 2, 2013
Michelle Willingham is one of my favorite authors. I devour her books and I am never disappointed. This anthology was 3 times the awesome. Not only did I get to read a new story from Michelle that I loved, but I was also introduced to 2 new authors that I will definitely read more from.
June 23, 2013
Highlander passion abound............
5 STARS for the heated sizzling intense passion of Rescued by the Highlander Warrior by Michelle Willingham
4 STARS for Brenda Joyce's The Warrior and the Rose, 3 STARS for Theresa Brisbin's The Forbidden Highlander.
5 STARS for the heated sizzling intense passion of Rescued by the Highlander Warrior by Michelle Willingham
4 STARS for Brenda Joyce's The Warrior and the Rose, 3 STARS for Theresa Brisbin's The Forbidden Highlander.
February 2, 2015
This is an introduction to three highlander romance authors. Brenda Joyce's The Warrior and the Rose is a prequel to A Rose in the storm and it would be helpful to read this book first.
I also enjoyed my introduction to Michelle Willingham and will read more of hers.
I also enjoyed my introduction to Michelle Willingham and will read more of hers.
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