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Scandalous Scots #1
To Love a Highlander
For fans of New York Times bestselling authors Sabrina Jeffries, Cathy Maxwell, and Karen Hawkins...
A TEMPTING PROPOSITION
As one of the bastards born to the Stirling court, Sorley the Hawk has never known his mother or father. It's a burning quest he has devoted himself to uncovering at any cost. But as a roguish warrior who serves at the pleasure of the King, his prowess-both on the battlefield and in his bedchamber-is legendary. So when a flame-haired Highland lass sneaks into his quarters with a tantalizing proposition, he can't resist taking her up on her offer . . .
AN UNQUENCHABLE DESIRE
Lady Mirabelle MacLaren will do anything to keep from marrying her odious suitor, even sully her own good name. And who better to despoil her than his sworn enemy, the one they call "Hawk?" As they set about the enjoyable task of ruining her reputation, Hawk and Mirabelle soon learn that rebellion never tasted so sweet.
A TEMPTING PROPOSITION
As one of the bastards born to the Stirling court, Sorley the Hawk has never known his mother or father. It's a burning quest he has devoted himself to uncovering at any cost. But as a roguish warrior who serves at the pleasure of the King, his prowess-both on the battlefield and in his bedchamber-is legendary. So when a flame-haired Highland lass sneaks into his quarters with a tantalizing proposition, he can't resist taking her up on her offer . . .
AN UNQUENCHABLE DESIRE
Lady Mirabelle MacLaren will do anything to keep from marrying her odious suitor, even sully her own good name. And who better to despoil her than his sworn enemy, the one they call "Hawk?" As they set about the enjoyable task of ruining her reputation, Hawk and Mirabelle soon learn that rebellion never tasted so sweet.
400 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 29, 2014
17 people are currently reading
1149 people want to read
About the author
Sue-Ellen Welfonder
86 books323 followersSue-Ellen MacDuffie Welfonder
aka
Sue-Ellen Welfonder & Allie Mackay
Sue-Ellen MacDuffie was born and raided in Florida. She is a card-carrying Scotophile whose burning wish to make frequent (free) trips to the land of her dreams led her to a twenty year career with the airlines. Bi-lingual, she flew international all those years, working her flights as foreign language speaker. Her flying career allowed her to see the world, but it was always to Scotland that she returned.
Now a full-time writer, she’s quick to admit that she much prefers wielding a pen to pushing tea and coffee. She spent fifteen years living in Europe and used that time to explore as many castle ruins, medieval abbeys, and stone circles as possible. Anything ancient, crumbling, or lichened caught her eye. She makes annual visits to Scotland, insisting they are a necessity as each trip gives her inspiration for new books.
Proud of her own Hebridean ancestry, she belongs to two clan societies: the MacFie Clan Society and the Clan MacAlpine Society. In addition to Scotland, her greatest passions are medieval history, the paranormal, and dogs. She never watches television, loves haggis, and writes at a four-hundred-and-fifty year old desk that once stood in a Bavarian castle.
Sue-Ellen is married and currently resides with her husband and Jack Russell Terrier in Florida. Readers can learn more about her and the world of her books at: www.welfonder.com.
aka
Sue-Ellen Welfonder & Allie Mackay
Sue-Ellen MacDuffie was born and raided in Florida. She is a card-carrying Scotophile whose burning wish to make frequent (free) trips to the land of her dreams led her to a twenty year career with the airlines. Bi-lingual, she flew international all those years, working her flights as foreign language speaker. Her flying career allowed her to see the world, but it was always to Scotland that she returned.
Now a full-time writer, she’s quick to admit that she much prefers wielding a pen to pushing tea and coffee. She spent fifteen years living in Europe and used that time to explore as many castle ruins, medieval abbeys, and stone circles as possible. Anything ancient, crumbling, or lichened caught her eye. She makes annual visits to Scotland, insisting they are a necessity as each trip gives her inspiration for new books.
Proud of her own Hebridean ancestry, she belongs to two clan societies: the MacFie Clan Society and the Clan MacAlpine Society. In addition to Scotland, her greatest passions are medieval history, the paranormal, and dogs. She never watches television, loves haggis, and writes at a four-hundred-and-fifty year old desk that once stood in a Bavarian castle.
Sue-Ellen is married and currently resides with her husband and Jack Russell Terrier in Florida. Readers can learn more about her and the world of her books at: www.welfonder.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
did-not-finish
December 27, 2023Terrible, long winded and boring. Didn't like the characters, the setting or anything. It took forever to get into any story and there was way too much time spent describing how much the female protagonist plagued the male without them ever really interacting. Do not waste your money on this book. Won't be reading this author again. I didn't even get halfway through before I abandoned it.
March 27, 2014
Once upon a time, in medieval Scotland, one charming highlander impregnated four of the King’s favorite mistresses; banished, these four bastards lived and thrived at the royal court at Stirling Castle, the leader amongst them being Sorley the Hawk. And this is his tale.
Despite living at court, royal bastards had their place, and stripling young Sorley was again reminded of his place when a desired female publically humiliated him. Yet, providence came to him when Lady Mirabelle MacLaren, daughter of a Highland laird, offered to dance with him. From that moment on, he was smitten with her.
Years later, they meet again, though under strange circumstances. Mirabelle sneaked into his bedchamber, asking him to take her virtue, to prevent her marriage with Sir John Sinclair, a contemptuous man who happens to be Sorley’s nemesis. Tempted beyond belief, Sorley’s honor made him decline, yet his and Mirabelle’s path would cross again, and with the aid of a wandering ghost, might a business proposal turn into true love?
I absolutely love this novel. Everything, from the characters, to the setting, is so beautifully detailed that I felt at home in this erstwhile unfamiliar setting. In the majestic Stirling Castle, Sorley, despite being a renowned lover, has never felt truly content with his life. He is a one of the Fenris Guards, the King’s best and secret warriors, yet bravery and honor could not fill the void in his heart. His stubbornness in admitting that he’s in love (as we know he had fallen a long time ago) is nicely complimented with Mirabelle’s own determination, making them a most wonderful pair.
In truth, Mirabelle’s insistence of Sorley being the one to take her virtue was carefully made. Not only could she also not forget him, she knew of his innate gentleness. Her kindness and inner strength are exhibited time and time again, and her intelligence when it comes to Sorley is infinitely dear. She admires how Sorley made himself into a name and rose above his bastard status, and sees the real man behind the legendary lover facade. It is rather adorable how Sorley and Mirabelle both think the other wouldn’t be interested in love, which introduces our delightful cast of secondary characters – namely the rumored Pink Lady, a sad ghost who vicariously lives through people finding their true loves.
With the flair of a true wordsmith, Sue-Ellen Welfonder has penned an utterly enchanting tale of two characters slowly falling in love with all the honor and tenderness in the world. When Sorley and Mirabelle come together, magic bursts out, illuminating the forlornness of the tale’s beginning, and bringing an amazing well-crafted ending to this tale. The plot has literal fantastical elements, yet the story itself feels so as well. Being one to rarely read Scottish historicals, I am forever making a space for Sue-Ellen Welfonder on my keeper shelf.
Readers, as for my obscuring the plot, well, you will have to read this to discover the magic for yourself!
*Review copy courtesy of the publisher for an honest review
Posted on Buried Under Romance for a blog tour. Visit to win great prizes!! 3-25 - 4/8
Despite living at court, royal bastards had their place, and stripling young Sorley was again reminded of his place when a desired female publically humiliated him. Yet, providence came to him when Lady Mirabelle MacLaren, daughter of a Highland laird, offered to dance with him. From that moment on, he was smitten with her.
Years later, they meet again, though under strange circumstances. Mirabelle sneaked into his bedchamber, asking him to take her virtue, to prevent her marriage with Sir John Sinclair, a contemptuous man who happens to be Sorley’s nemesis. Tempted beyond belief, Sorley’s honor made him decline, yet his and Mirabelle’s path would cross again, and with the aid of a wandering ghost, might a business proposal turn into true love?
I absolutely love this novel. Everything, from the characters, to the setting, is so beautifully detailed that I felt at home in this erstwhile unfamiliar setting. In the majestic Stirling Castle, Sorley, despite being a renowned lover, has never felt truly content with his life. He is a one of the Fenris Guards, the King’s best and secret warriors, yet bravery and honor could not fill the void in his heart. His stubbornness in admitting that he’s in love (as we know he had fallen a long time ago) is nicely complimented with Mirabelle’s own determination, making them a most wonderful pair.
In truth, Mirabelle’s insistence of Sorley being the one to take her virtue was carefully made. Not only could she also not forget him, she knew of his innate gentleness. Her kindness and inner strength are exhibited time and time again, and her intelligence when it comes to Sorley is infinitely dear. She admires how Sorley made himself into a name and rose above his bastard status, and sees the real man behind the legendary lover facade. It is rather adorable how Sorley and Mirabelle both think the other wouldn’t be interested in love, which introduces our delightful cast of secondary characters – namely the rumored Pink Lady, a sad ghost who vicariously lives through people finding their true loves.
With the flair of a true wordsmith, Sue-Ellen Welfonder has penned an utterly enchanting tale of two characters slowly falling in love with all the honor and tenderness in the world. When Sorley and Mirabelle come together, magic bursts out, illuminating the forlornness of the tale’s beginning, and bringing an amazing well-crafted ending to this tale. The plot has literal fantastical elements, yet the story itself feels so as well. Being one to rarely read Scottish historicals, I am forever making a space for Sue-Ellen Welfonder on my keeper shelf.
Readers, as for my obscuring the plot, well, you will have to read this to discover the magic for yourself!
*Review copy courtesy of the publisher for an honest review
Posted on Buried Under Romance for a blog tour. Visit to win great prizes!! 3-25 - 4/8
May 1, 2014
Sorley the Hawk has never forgot Lady Mirabelle MacLaren and the harsh lesson he learned at believing she saw past his station in life. Now that she is in his room and he is naked, but not for any pleasurable reasons, he wants answers.
Lady Mirabelle wants Sorley to debauch her in order to lose the interest of a vile man who is pursuing her. Sorley though knows that if he touches the highborn lass it will be met with another set of problems. When they make a different sort of arrangement, Sorley finds that the temptation of Lady Mirabelle is more than he bargained for and on his honor will prove why he is the right man for her even if he may not necessarily believe it himself.
Full review on Single Titles
http://singletitles.com/?p=9783
Lady Mirabelle wants Sorley to debauch her in order to lose the interest of a vile man who is pursuing her. Sorley though knows that if he touches the highborn lass it will be met with another set of problems. When they make a different sort of arrangement, Sorley finds that the temptation of Lady Mirabelle is more than he bargained for and on his honor will prove why he is the right man for her even if he may not necessarily believe it himself.
Full review on Single Titles
http://singletitles.com/?p=9783
May 4, 2014
I would give this book 1000 stars if allowed yes a thousand stars as it was that fabulous and captivating to read pure brilliance in my opinion.
I have been reading Sue-Ellen Welfonder since her debut Devil in a Kilt in 2001 and I can honestly say her books only get better and better as I have read every single book she has written. I must say is one of the most talented authors in this genre which happened to my favorite Scottish historical romance.
In this story it starts off in the past long with the King of Sterling Castle loving this bard Archie as is one of his favorites Archie MacNab who is loved by all at court especially the ladies until he beds four of the kings favorite mistresses and impregnants all four mistresses. Of course the king is furious which then leads to Archies downfall and King banishes him to from court to the faraway highlands and orders he is never to see the mistresses or his unborn children again. This is not Archies story so much but those of his illegitimate sons as this book 1 in the Scadalous Scots which is Sorley the Hawks story as we watch him from age 14 and then again as a man full grown and see how he changes his own circumstance but still with a lot of resentment and a chip on his shoulder or should I say a dent in his armor.
At age 14 Sorley was a bit full of himself refusing to think less of himself due to his birth circumstance and thought he could charm any lady no matter how high born he is given the direct cut and another beautiful highborn lass grabs his hand and ask for a dance. Unfortunatley her champerone and her guard run-interference and stop them from dancing at once. For Sorley not once, but twice he gets the cut and never forgets that humiliating night and all due to his birth circumstances and his friends all given him the look of sympathy. He decides to change his circimstance as he is not allowed to practice with the other young squires so he would practice thier movements as he excelled in everything he did. At sixteen he saves the Kings life and his circumstsnces do change as do the circumstances of the three illegitimate friends Roag the bear, Caelen the fox and Andrew the addar as they all become the Kings warriors of a secret team for the greater good.
Now as a man he is known for his superior skills on both the battlefield and in the boudoir. His main rule is no emotional attachments as he ends the relationshp when any of his bed partners who spouts words of love or feelings. Also he is still obsessed with finding his birth parents although he gave up on that loving father and son reunion as a boy he now wants revenge on their abandonment of him!
Of course his life starts to spins out of control when the beautiful highland lass,Mirabelle MacLaren he who once gave him the direct cut and doesn't even seem to remember him yet gives him a proposition that is damn hard to refuse even if she is a virgin. As she wants him to ruin her so an so an evil corrupt unwanted suitor will not wish to ask for her hand in marriage as long as she is no longer a vigin. plus given the fact is also one of Hawk's arch enemies! A man he suspects of a lot of foul play concerming missing women in the area.
I hope I have given you enough to whet your appetite for this spectacular book as the writing is suberb!!I love when the writer has a true love of Scotland as Ms. Welfonder does you can feel it. Also I love when a writer puts some true historical facts about Scotland mixed in with their own fictional story which i find totally brilliant. I also loved the antics of Little Heart the adorable kitty Miranda is gifted with.
On a personal note I would like to thank her for putting in my ancestoral seat Eilean Donan Castle under the fictional name of Eilean Creag Castle in this book and also Kintail, Scotland for Clan Macrae is one of the children of Kintail, which is near Skye, Scotland. I actually jumped out of my chair as I read this being so thrilled and filled with happiness.
This book is one of the best reads I have read all year it was like having several storylines in one even though they are all connected. I felt all the powerful emotions when reading this magnificent book. I laughed, cried, felt the sympathy, empathy, anger, terror, fear, hestiation and of course love. This only happens when reading a truly captivating and brillant book. I really wont be surprised if "To Love A Highlander" wins some awards as it was sinply that fabulous! Pure brilliance!
I loved it and look forward to reading To Desire A Highlander in November which will be book 2 in the Scadalous Scots series this time Roag the bear's story.
I definitely recommend "To Love A Highlander"by Sue-Ellen Welfonder this was an absolute joy to read as I can not praise it enough, if it was a painting I would call it a masterpiece! ~ B
I have been reading Sue-Ellen Welfonder since her debut Devil in a Kilt in 2001 and I can honestly say her books only get better and better as I have read every single book she has written. I must say is one of the most talented authors in this genre which happened to my favorite Scottish historical romance.
In this story it starts off in the past long with the King of Sterling Castle loving this bard Archie as is one of his favorites Archie MacNab who is loved by all at court especially the ladies until he beds four of the kings favorite mistresses and impregnants all four mistresses. Of course the king is furious which then leads to Archies downfall and King banishes him to from court to the faraway highlands and orders he is never to see the mistresses or his unborn children again. This is not Archies story so much but those of his illegitimate sons as this book 1 in the Scadalous Scots which is Sorley the Hawks story as we watch him from age 14 and then again as a man full grown and see how he changes his own circumstance but still with a lot of resentment and a chip on his shoulder or should I say a dent in his armor.
At age 14 Sorley was a bit full of himself refusing to think less of himself due to his birth circumstance and thought he could charm any lady no matter how high born he is given the direct cut and another beautiful highborn lass grabs his hand and ask for a dance. Unfortunatley her champerone and her guard run-interference and stop them from dancing at once. For Sorley not once, but twice he gets the cut and never forgets that humiliating night and all due to his birth circumstances and his friends all given him the look of sympathy. He decides to change his circimstance as he is not allowed to practice with the other young squires so he would practice thier movements as he excelled in everything he did. At sixteen he saves the Kings life and his circumstsnces do change as do the circumstances of the three illegitimate friends Roag the bear, Caelen the fox and Andrew the addar as they all become the Kings warriors of a secret team for the greater good.
Now as a man he is known for his superior skills on both the battlefield and in the boudoir. His main rule is no emotional attachments as he ends the relationshp when any of his bed partners who spouts words of love or feelings. Also he is still obsessed with finding his birth parents although he gave up on that loving father and son reunion as a boy he now wants revenge on their abandonment of him!
Of course his life starts to spins out of control when the beautiful highland lass,Mirabelle MacLaren he who once gave him the direct cut and doesn't even seem to remember him yet gives him a proposition that is damn hard to refuse even if she is a virgin. As she wants him to ruin her so an so an evil corrupt unwanted suitor will not wish to ask for her hand in marriage as long as she is no longer a vigin. plus given the fact is also one of Hawk's arch enemies! A man he suspects of a lot of foul play concerming missing women in the area.
I hope I have given you enough to whet your appetite for this spectacular book as the writing is suberb!!I love when the writer has a true love of Scotland as Ms. Welfonder does you can feel it. Also I love when a writer puts some true historical facts about Scotland mixed in with their own fictional story which i find totally brilliant. I also loved the antics of Little Heart the adorable kitty Miranda is gifted with.
On a personal note I would like to thank her for putting in my ancestoral seat Eilean Donan Castle under the fictional name of Eilean Creag Castle in this book and also Kintail, Scotland for Clan Macrae is one of the children of Kintail, which is near Skye, Scotland. I actually jumped out of my chair as I read this being so thrilled and filled with happiness.
This book is one of the best reads I have read all year it was like having several storylines in one even though they are all connected. I felt all the powerful emotions when reading this magnificent book. I laughed, cried, felt the sympathy, empathy, anger, terror, fear, hestiation and of course love. This only happens when reading a truly captivating and brillant book. I really wont be surprised if "To Love A Highlander" wins some awards as it was sinply that fabulous! Pure brilliance!
I loved it and look forward to reading To Desire A Highlander in November which will be book 2 in the Scadalous Scots series this time Roag the bear's story.
I definitely recommend "To Love A Highlander"by Sue-Ellen Welfonder this was an absolute joy to read as I can not praise it enough, if it was a painting I would call it a masterpiece! ~ B
March 26, 2014
Scandalously Intriguing!
What an intriguing tale. I’ve read many stories where we find the rogue being scandalous, but in this magnificent read the author has turned the tables and immersed the readers into a courtly triad where the damsel (Mirabelle) manipulates a ruse with the aid from a sexy highlander named Sorley to save herself from being the victim of abuse and torture from an evil lordly sociopath called John Sinclair.
The reader is captivated immediately from the beginning with the introduction of a sexy highlander (Lord Archie) that was favored by the King at one point and then suffering the Kings wrath of banishment from court the next for his indiscretions of his sexual interludes with one of the Kings favorite mistresses and leaving her and others with child. Then a scandalous story begins years later as the bastards from court grow up and secrets unfold truths.
The characters are full of vigor and humor that keep you drawn to them throughout the whole story. This first story introduces the readers to the bastards Sorley the Hawk, Roag the Bear, Caelen the Fox, and Andrew the Addar. Sorley’s story begins.
Sorley the Hawk has a well known reputation for his sexual escapades and has the best descriptive demeanor that I loved – guaranteed it will have you swooning (sigh). His charisma, charm, and masculinity radiate an electrifying current that sends his seductive sexuality in magnitudes of shockwaves throughout the air around him. Just one look at him and you’re climaxing with want and aching for a touch. He is fierce in his fighting and passionate about the things he cares about as well as loyal to the ones he respects. Though he knows Mirabelle is out of his league so he thinks, he cannot resist her lure or should I say his heart can’t deny the truth in wanting her for his own. Before he realizes it, the acting is no longer a farce and his feelings become an open book as passion drives him madly in love once he takes her as his own. Heat Level 3 Flames.
Mirabelle is one feisty lass who reminds me of our women of today, she is out spoken and nothing scares her. She knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to go after it. Smart lass indeed as she sees right through the wickedness and demise of each character within the courts. She is innocent yet she is brave, respectable, and caring. Her planning sounds wonderful within her mind but when put to action, her heart unexpectedly has a mind of its own and her true reason for seeking the aid of one handsome highlander bears fruit to a passion that not even with all her acting can she hide her secret of love and true feelings.
Within the plot several other scenes were going on. The evil lord John had his wicked eye on Mirabelle and put his plan in action by trying to kidnap her but is short lived. The ghostly presence (Rosalind) within the castle at court finds some happiness and seems to help the romantic couple reach their goals. Lord Archie’s friend from a neighboring clan reaches out and makes a trip to find the son he knows about to bring back some happiness for his loyal friend. The Kings brother and his secret spies known as Fenris carry out several missions filled with sleek action and humorous disguises.
Overall, I loved the way the author built up the scenes leaving the readers with anticipation for that unfolding climax at the end where the characters have captured your heart and have your emotions flying high.
The ending was beautiful with an happy ever after causing my eyes to get all misty knowing that not only Mirabelle and Sorley end up together regardless of their courtly status but because Lord Archie and Sorley finally get to meet and learn about each other. Just goes to show that sometimes Scandals whether accident or not make for a future full of trifle adventures but eventually turn into a heartwarming story full of love and forgiveness in the end.
Great Read!
**Provided by Publisher/Author for a Fair and Honest Review**
What an intriguing tale. I’ve read many stories where we find the rogue being scandalous, but in this magnificent read the author has turned the tables and immersed the readers into a courtly triad where the damsel (Mirabelle) manipulates a ruse with the aid from a sexy highlander named Sorley to save herself from being the victim of abuse and torture from an evil lordly sociopath called John Sinclair.
The reader is captivated immediately from the beginning with the introduction of a sexy highlander (Lord Archie) that was favored by the King at one point and then suffering the Kings wrath of banishment from court the next for his indiscretions of his sexual interludes with one of the Kings favorite mistresses and leaving her and others with child. Then a scandalous story begins years later as the bastards from court grow up and secrets unfold truths.
The characters are full of vigor and humor that keep you drawn to them throughout the whole story. This first story introduces the readers to the bastards Sorley the Hawk, Roag the Bear, Caelen the Fox, and Andrew the Addar. Sorley’s story begins.
Sorley the Hawk has a well known reputation for his sexual escapades and has the best descriptive demeanor that I loved – guaranteed it will have you swooning (sigh). His charisma, charm, and masculinity radiate an electrifying current that sends his seductive sexuality in magnitudes of shockwaves throughout the air around him. Just one look at him and you’re climaxing with want and aching for a touch. He is fierce in his fighting and passionate about the things he cares about as well as loyal to the ones he respects. Though he knows Mirabelle is out of his league so he thinks, he cannot resist her lure or should I say his heart can’t deny the truth in wanting her for his own. Before he realizes it, the acting is no longer a farce and his feelings become an open book as passion drives him madly in love once he takes her as his own. Heat Level 3 Flames.
Mirabelle is one feisty lass who reminds me of our women of today, she is out spoken and nothing scares her. She knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to go after it. Smart lass indeed as she sees right through the wickedness and demise of each character within the courts. She is innocent yet she is brave, respectable, and caring. Her planning sounds wonderful within her mind but when put to action, her heart unexpectedly has a mind of its own and her true reason for seeking the aid of one handsome highlander bears fruit to a passion that not even with all her acting can she hide her secret of love and true feelings.
Within the plot several other scenes were going on. The evil lord John had his wicked eye on Mirabelle and put his plan in action by trying to kidnap her but is short lived. The ghostly presence (Rosalind) within the castle at court finds some happiness and seems to help the romantic couple reach their goals. Lord Archie’s friend from a neighboring clan reaches out and makes a trip to find the son he knows about to bring back some happiness for his loyal friend. The Kings brother and his secret spies known as Fenris carry out several missions filled with sleek action and humorous disguises.
Overall, I loved the way the author built up the scenes leaving the readers with anticipation for that unfolding climax at the end where the characters have captured your heart and have your emotions flying high.
The ending was beautiful with an happy ever after causing my eyes to get all misty knowing that not only Mirabelle and Sorley end up together regardless of their courtly status but because Lord Archie and Sorley finally get to meet and learn about each other. Just goes to show that sometimes Scandals whether accident or not make for a future full of trifle adventures but eventually turn into a heartwarming story full of love and forgiveness in the end.
Great Read!
**Provided by Publisher/Author for a Fair and Honest Review**
July 24, 2014
5 STARS
This is one of the most intriguing books Ive read in such a long time. The scandal was so ironic because usually writers always have the male in the tale be the scandalous one. But NO! This time the damsel is in distress and she manipulates the sexy highlander into aiding her so she doesn’t have to be with a terrible man named John Sinclair. John plans on evilly abusing her and torturing her. Readers will be captivated from the beginning because you will be introduced to where these highlanders stem from. There was a highlander named Lord Archie that was favored by the king but then he was thrown out of court because he was sleeping with all the ladies and impregnating them. So there are four highlanders which are Lord Archie’s sons. Their names are: Sorley the Hawk, Roag the Bear, Caelen the Fox, and Andrew the Addar.
This is Sorley the Hawks beautiful and touching story:
This first book is dedicated to Sorley the Hawk. I love the way the writer introduces we readers to where these men come from and a little history on their father. You understand things better when you are aware of their background. I can personally say I absolutely loved Sorley the Hawk and his description and assests only make you want to swoon from the very start. The way Sorley can beckon a lady is just indescribable! Just one look and you are ready from him to throw you on a table and just have his way with you. Sorley has charisma, charm, an air of sex just radiates around him like his own little personal halo. He is fierce and a brave man that will not back down from a fight and he protects the one he loves. Who could go wrong with this one?
Sorley the Hawk has always been a man that knows how to use all his look and charm to get what he wants. But for the first time in his world he thinks Mirabelle is out of his league. Mirabelle just needs his help to trick the abusing John into thinking she is with Sorley so the man will leave off and know that she is not up for grabs. Although, soon things start to take a turn. Sorley goes along with the acting, but soon this acting turns into a real budding romance for him. He begins to have strong feelings for Mirabelle. But he hides this because he doesn’t think Mirabella would want him.
Mirabelle is one vivacious, proud, intelligent lass with a eye for calling out people who try to manipulate others. She’s always caring to others and will attempt to defend anyone in distress. She reminds me of the way we ladies are today. Mirabelle does not back down and she goes after what she wants no matter the consequences. But she is innocent and respectable and all the men in court can’t help but want to catch her eye. The plan she concocts with Sorley the Hawk is all great and dandy inside of her pretty brain. But when the plan she conducts goes into action, things aren’t always what they seem. Mirabelle is good at acting and thinks she can cover up her developing feelings for this sexy highlander. But only acting can take you so far before real feelings emerge and her heart is also in the game.
Can they admit their feelings for one another?
I absolutely loved this book. The author knew just how to build up each scene where you were sitting on the edge of your seat trying your best to see what would happen next. I couldn’t predict anything, it was all a surprise and I love that about a romance novel. My emotions while reading this book were reeling and I was speed reading through some of the pages just because I had to know what was going to happen next. I would read this book again, and suggest it to anyone! This book has captured my heart and I know all you other readers will love it just like I did. This book reaches out and grabs your being and envelops your soul. You will never forget a story like this. The ending had me tearful and happy for the future. I cannot wait to see whats next in this amazing series.
-Secret Realm Book Reviews
my site: www.thesecretrealm.com
This is one of the most intriguing books Ive read in such a long time. The scandal was so ironic because usually writers always have the male in the tale be the scandalous one. But NO! This time the damsel is in distress and she manipulates the sexy highlander into aiding her so she doesn’t have to be with a terrible man named John Sinclair. John plans on evilly abusing her and torturing her. Readers will be captivated from the beginning because you will be introduced to where these highlanders stem from. There was a highlander named Lord Archie that was favored by the king but then he was thrown out of court because he was sleeping with all the ladies and impregnating them. So there are four highlanders which are Lord Archie’s sons. Their names are: Sorley the Hawk, Roag the Bear, Caelen the Fox, and Andrew the Addar.
This is Sorley the Hawks beautiful and touching story:
This first book is dedicated to Sorley the Hawk. I love the way the writer introduces we readers to where these men come from and a little history on their father. You understand things better when you are aware of their background. I can personally say I absolutely loved Sorley the Hawk and his description and assests only make you want to swoon from the very start. The way Sorley can beckon a lady is just indescribable! Just one look and you are ready from him to throw you on a table and just have his way with you. Sorley has charisma, charm, an air of sex just radiates around him like his own little personal halo. He is fierce and a brave man that will not back down from a fight and he protects the one he loves. Who could go wrong with this one?
Sorley the Hawk has always been a man that knows how to use all his look and charm to get what he wants. But for the first time in his world he thinks Mirabelle is out of his league. Mirabelle just needs his help to trick the abusing John into thinking she is with Sorley so the man will leave off and know that she is not up for grabs. Although, soon things start to take a turn. Sorley goes along with the acting, but soon this acting turns into a real budding romance for him. He begins to have strong feelings for Mirabelle. But he hides this because he doesn’t think Mirabella would want him.
Mirabelle is one vivacious, proud, intelligent lass with a eye for calling out people who try to manipulate others. She’s always caring to others and will attempt to defend anyone in distress. She reminds me of the way we ladies are today. Mirabelle does not back down and she goes after what she wants no matter the consequences. But she is innocent and respectable and all the men in court can’t help but want to catch her eye. The plan she concocts with Sorley the Hawk is all great and dandy inside of her pretty brain. But when the plan she conducts goes into action, things aren’t always what they seem. Mirabelle is good at acting and thinks she can cover up her developing feelings for this sexy highlander. But only acting can take you so far before real feelings emerge and her heart is also in the game.
Can they admit their feelings for one another?
I absolutely loved this book. The author knew just how to build up each scene where you were sitting on the edge of your seat trying your best to see what would happen next. I couldn’t predict anything, it was all a surprise and I love that about a romance novel. My emotions while reading this book were reeling and I was speed reading through some of the pages just because I had to know what was going to happen next. I would read this book again, and suggest it to anyone! This book has captured my heart and I know all you other readers will love it just like I did. This book reaches out and grabs your being and envelops your soul. You will never forget a story like this. The ending had me tearful and happy for the future. I cannot wait to see whats next in this amazing series.
-Secret Realm Book Reviews
my site: www.thesecretrealm.com
April 29, 2014
Donna‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
5 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
Sorley grew up a Sterling castle bastard not knowing his mother or his father. He had no sir name and no blood line. This young man was full of spirit and fire and planned to one day make a name for himself. One way in which he did that was with the ladies. Sorley was known as a ladies man and quite talented in this endeavor. At the young age of sixteen, he saved the King’s life making him “a royal favorite. His reputation soared and almost overnight, those who’d shunned him sought his friendship.”
Mirabelle MacLaren was a young girl when her father was called to Sterling Castle to “assist the King’s scribes in translating ancient Gaelic medicinal text”. It was then that she first saw Sorley, the young rouge full of swagger and knew no other man would do. Being that she was a lady and he a bastard, her chaperone ran him off. Years later, when she is being perused by a snake of a man, she seeks out the one man she wants hoping he will help her soil her reputation and thus put an end the other man’s pursuit.
“I have ne’er in my life been more honest. No’ with anyone, no’ in all my days.”
(Sniff) this story is beautiful! In all honesty when I agreed to read it I assumed it would be an erotic tale of alpha male helps young virgin set in the Scottish Highlands. Boy was I wrong! This is a very touching story of Sorley’s desire to know who he is, show the world he won’t be kept down, and the good heart that lies underneath the tough exterior. It is also the story of a strong, independent woman who is not afraid to go after what she wants and won’t be held back because what she wants doesn’t fall into the accepted category of proper.
“’If I cross this threshold, there’ll be no going back. No restraint.’ He gave her a final chance. ‘I will ravish you in there, as I have e’er dreamt of doing. Thoroughly, completely, and until we are both so replete, so sated, that we cannae move. Then we shall begin again.’”
At first the old English language made reading difficult, but after some research to learn meaning of the outdated phrases, I began to hear the accent in my head and even think using those phrases! Sue-Ellen Welonder has a gift for weaving a beautiful love story full of lust, adventure, treachery, villains, friendship and desire. Although I do have to say that there are some questions not answered at the end of this book that left me feeling bereft, but I hope they are addressed in future stories. I give this book 5 stars with 3 hands down the pants and I look forward to reading more by this author.
5 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
Sorley grew up a Sterling castle bastard not knowing his mother or his father. He had no sir name and no blood line. This young man was full of spirit and fire and planned to one day make a name for himself. One way in which he did that was with the ladies. Sorley was known as a ladies man and quite talented in this endeavor. At the young age of sixteen, he saved the King’s life making him “a royal favorite. His reputation soared and almost overnight, those who’d shunned him sought his friendship.”
Mirabelle MacLaren was a young girl when her father was called to Sterling Castle to “assist the King’s scribes in translating ancient Gaelic medicinal text”. It was then that she first saw Sorley, the young rouge full of swagger and knew no other man would do. Being that she was a lady and he a bastard, her chaperone ran him off. Years later, when she is being perused by a snake of a man, she seeks out the one man she wants hoping he will help her soil her reputation and thus put an end the other man’s pursuit.
“I have ne’er in my life been more honest. No’ with anyone, no’ in all my days.”
(Sniff) this story is beautiful! In all honesty when I agreed to read it I assumed it would be an erotic tale of alpha male helps young virgin set in the Scottish Highlands. Boy was I wrong! This is a very touching story of Sorley’s desire to know who he is, show the world he won’t be kept down, and the good heart that lies underneath the tough exterior. It is also the story of a strong, independent woman who is not afraid to go after what she wants and won’t be held back because what she wants doesn’t fall into the accepted category of proper.
“’If I cross this threshold, there’ll be no going back. No restraint.’ He gave her a final chance. ‘I will ravish you in there, as I have e’er dreamt of doing. Thoroughly, completely, and until we are both so replete, so sated, that we cannae move. Then we shall begin again.’”
At first the old English language made reading difficult, but after some research to learn meaning of the outdated phrases, I began to hear the accent in my head and even think using those phrases! Sue-Ellen Welonder has a gift for weaving a beautiful love story full of lust, adventure, treachery, villains, friendship and desire. Although I do have to say that there are some questions not answered at the end of this book that left me feeling bereft, but I hope they are addressed in future stories. I give this book 5 stars with 3 hands down the pants and I look forward to reading more by this author.
April 18, 2014
Originally reviewed for Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy.
Sue-Ellen Welfonder writes a tale of Romance and intrigue captured in the Scottish court of Robert Stewart. While this isn't based in the Scottish Highlands it does retain the theme that there is just something special about the highlands and the people that live there.
To Love A Highlander is book one in Ms. Welfonder's Scandalous Scots Series and most definitely starts out with a bang.
Sorely the Hawk was raised a Bastard at court. Not a Royal bastard rather an unnamed, unwanted child living on the fringes. Neither servant nor aristocracy. Over the years Sorely has grown into a man of consequence even though he remains on the social outskirts, except in the bedroom of course. When a gorgeous woman approaches him and asks him to ruin her, he is appalled. That it is the woman who as a girl saved him from humiliation only to cause him a greater one makes his decision easy.
Lady Mirabelle MacLaren is kind and gentle of heart but she's not naive. When she realizes that the scum of the earth is wooing her father (with the intention of eventually marrying her) she knows drastic measures are needed. Coming up with a diabolical plan to get herself ruined seemed to be perfect. And she knows just the man to help her.
As can only be expected this plan is doomed to fail..or is it? Can two people from such different social standings cross the social divide? Can they come together for more than a moment?
A sometimes fun, sometimes serious book I really enjoyed it. Of course there were moments of frustration. Sorely was brash, arrogant and sometimes annoying. He had a chip on his shoulder that is understandable but it can detract from the story.
Dealing with his friends, who I am sure will end up as his brothers, he is often just plain awful. And of course having to face his deepest desire and acknowledge a father he always wanted but never admitted it was painful but somewhat anticlimactic.
There was a lot going on and it flowed reasonably well. Some funny secondary characters and a lot of promise for this series.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of To Love A Highlander, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on April 29, 2014
Sue-Ellen Welfonder writes a tale of Romance and intrigue captured in the Scottish court of Robert Stewart. While this isn't based in the Scottish Highlands it does retain the theme that there is just something special about the highlands and the people that live there.
To Love A Highlander is book one in Ms. Welfonder's Scandalous Scots Series and most definitely starts out with a bang.
Sorely the Hawk was raised a Bastard at court. Not a Royal bastard rather an unnamed, unwanted child living on the fringes. Neither servant nor aristocracy. Over the years Sorely has grown into a man of consequence even though he remains on the social outskirts, except in the bedroom of course. When a gorgeous woman approaches him and asks him to ruin her, he is appalled. That it is the woman who as a girl saved him from humiliation only to cause him a greater one makes his decision easy.
Lady Mirabelle MacLaren is kind and gentle of heart but she's not naive. When she realizes that the scum of the earth is wooing her father (with the intention of eventually marrying her) she knows drastic measures are needed. Coming up with a diabolical plan to get herself ruined seemed to be perfect. And she knows just the man to help her.
As can only be expected this plan is doomed to fail..or is it? Can two people from such different social standings cross the social divide? Can they come together for more than a moment?
A sometimes fun, sometimes serious book I really enjoyed it. Of course there were moments of frustration. Sorely was brash, arrogant and sometimes annoying. He had a chip on his shoulder that is understandable but it can detract from the story.
Dealing with his friends, who I am sure will end up as his brothers, he is often just plain awful. And of course having to face his deepest desire and acknowledge a father he always wanted but never admitted it was painful but somewhat anticlimactic.
There was a lot going on and it flowed reasonably well. Some funny secondary characters and a lot of promise for this series.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of To Love A Highlander, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on April 29, 2014
November 12, 2014
Book Review-To Love A Highlander Before reading this one, I had heard many high reviews on this latest works from a favorite author of mine. I have adored her older books, and just had such a fun time with her work. She does one of my favorite sub genres...Medieval Scottish Highlands...I love this period in history, and its such a great starting point for a romance novel, and Sue Ellen Welfonder does a fantastic job in creating a world that takes you back in time, to a time of mystery, magic, and passion for the glens and the land. The beginning of the story starts off with Sorley and Mirabelle, who met when they were mere teenagers, but Mirabelle hurt Sorley that night and he hasn't seen her until she comes into his room demanding that he bed her. Sorley is a man known as the "Hawk", he is well known to love women and be quite talented in the bedding. However he knows he can't just bed Mirabelle, she is innocent and he refuses to do it...at first. But he can't resist Mirabelle, she is beauty personified, and he knows that he can't resist the temptation. Mirabelle will do anything to escape a unwanted marriage, and sharing a night in bed with Sorley wouldn't be a hardship. As Mirabelle and Sorley enter into a battle of who surrenders first, a fierce love erupts and soon they will have to decide if their love is strong enough to face the future and an enemy that seeks to destroy them. What I truly enjoyed about this story was seeing these two really find a working relationship. At first there is resistance and I enjoyed the sexual tension between the two. Quite a entertainment seeing the battle of wits...and I also liked the other plot of seeing Sorely's past and the past history we learn surrounding his birthright. I loved seeing Sorley's character develop as you dig deeper into the book. I liked the intensity and drama that this author places in the plot. It was so fun reading this one, and seeing the richness of the storyteller's voice that is evident on every page. Overall a winner of a romance, that is vivid in detail, rich in history, characters written in depth and emotion, and a love story that will leave you with a tear in your eye, and a smile on your face!! SIMPLY LOVELY!!
April 4, 2014
Normally, I absolutely love historical romances. Unfortunately, I just couldn't click with this one and ended up spending five days trying to get through it. Maybe I wanted more from the romance from the beginning, but I simply couldn't connect with the characters like I usually do.
Lady Mirabelle will do anything to escape marrying the vile Lord John who she knows is vying for her hand. Mirabelle goes to his rival Sorley the Hawk, a bastard of Stirling court who she had danced with many years ago, to help her. How? By ruining her virtue so that her suitor won't want anything to do with her. Sorley is used to ravishing women and leading on the battlefield, but he isn't ready for such a request from the fiery redhead who he hadn't forgotten after that dance so many years ago. With much more on the line than mere physical pleasure, Sorley and Mirabelle uncover their undeniable attraction as Sorley fights to protect his King.
Like I said, I was missing the intense romance historical romances usually have. Yeah, Mirabelle and Sorley were insanely attracted to each other, but nothing really went anywhere with them for way too long. Seriously, I was waiting and waiting for something to finally happen between them and it never really did until much later on in the book.
I enjoyed how Sorley had a lot more to worry about than his feelings for Mirabell, specifically concerning his work for the King, but I found myself drifting off throughout the book and not being able to really engage with the story. The only part I really enjoyed was more towards the end, where Mirabelle and Sorley find themselves crossing paths with Lord John and having to deal with his wretched ways. Other than that, I found the story just okay and the romance even less intriguing.
Overall, this one was a miss for me. Though the cover is gorgeous, the romance and story didn't sweep me often my feet like historicals normally do. I love some of Sue Ellen's other novels, but this story just couldn't hold my interest. Hopefully I'll enjoy her next one more, because I know she can write one good historical romance!
Lady Mirabelle will do anything to escape marrying the vile Lord John who she knows is vying for her hand. Mirabelle goes to his rival Sorley the Hawk, a bastard of Stirling court who she had danced with many years ago, to help her. How? By ruining her virtue so that her suitor won't want anything to do with her. Sorley is used to ravishing women and leading on the battlefield, but he isn't ready for such a request from the fiery redhead who he hadn't forgotten after that dance so many years ago. With much more on the line than mere physical pleasure, Sorley and Mirabelle uncover their undeniable attraction as Sorley fights to protect his King.
Like I said, I was missing the intense romance historical romances usually have. Yeah, Mirabelle and Sorley were insanely attracted to each other, but nothing really went anywhere with them for way too long. Seriously, I was waiting and waiting for something to finally happen between them and it never really did until much later on in the book.
I enjoyed how Sorley had a lot more to worry about than his feelings for Mirabell, specifically concerning his work for the King, but I found myself drifting off throughout the book and not being able to really engage with the story. The only part I really enjoyed was more towards the end, where Mirabelle and Sorley find themselves crossing paths with Lord John and having to deal with his wretched ways. Other than that, I found the story just okay and the romance even less intriguing.
Overall, this one was a miss for me. Though the cover is gorgeous, the romance and story didn't sweep me often my feet like historicals normally do. I love some of Sue Ellen's other novels, but this story just couldn't hold my interest. Hopefully I'll enjoy her next one more, because I know she can write one good historical romance!
May 1, 2014
This is the first in the series and it sets the stage beautifully and without being wordy! You are transported to 1386 and life in the Royal castle. The fragile ego of a king and his whims and raids by neighboring clans complete the stage for the series with four illegitimate sons of Royal mistresses.
As a royal illegitimate, Sorley has lived in the castle of the King on the fringes as a young man, but over the years he establishes himself as a warrior, earning acclaim and money for himself. He is able to rise above his upbringing and has his own moral code and fights for those less fortunate. Secretly he believes his father is a Highland Chieftain and is drawn to the lore, traditions and what he has been told of the beauty of the Highlands.
Lady Mirabelle MacLean is the daughter of a lesser knight who is a scholar and herbalist working for the king. She is in need of ruination and because of bad blood between Sorley and Sir John Sinclair, the man she believes to soon be her betrothed, she has chosen Sorley for that task. She is a Highland lady that has a strong sense of herself and what she wants. She is not a flighty or faint hearted person.
They first meet when Sorely is fourteen and she is a few years older and would have shared a dance, but she walked away. Thirteen years later while they are getting to know each other better she explains why she walked away. During the middle of the story, while Sorley is trying to avoid actually ruining Mirabelle, more back story and secondary characters are built up, so his avoidance did not frustrate me. The friendship Sorley has with the three other illegitimate sons, his half brothers but they do not know that, brings in humor, honor, and loyalty. They are a charming, incorrigible group. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the rest of the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
As a royal illegitimate, Sorley has lived in the castle of the King on the fringes as a young man, but over the years he establishes himself as a warrior, earning acclaim and money for himself. He is able to rise above his upbringing and has his own moral code and fights for those less fortunate. Secretly he believes his father is a Highland Chieftain and is drawn to the lore, traditions and what he has been told of the beauty of the Highlands.
Lady Mirabelle MacLean is the daughter of a lesser knight who is a scholar and herbalist working for the king. She is in need of ruination and because of bad blood between Sorley and Sir John Sinclair, the man she believes to soon be her betrothed, she has chosen Sorley for that task. She is a Highland lady that has a strong sense of herself and what she wants. She is not a flighty or faint hearted person.
They first meet when Sorely is fourteen and she is a few years older and would have shared a dance, but she walked away. Thirteen years later while they are getting to know each other better she explains why she walked away. During the middle of the story, while Sorley is trying to avoid actually ruining Mirabelle, more back story and secondary characters are built up, so his avoidance did not frustrate me. The friendship Sorley has with the three other illegitimate sons, his half brothers but they do not know that, brings in humor, honor, and loyalty. They are a charming, incorrigible group. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the rest of the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
February 14, 2014
Sorley is one of the court bastards. He and the other court bastards have been raised at the royal court of King Robert III of Scotland, they knew neither their true father nor in Sorely's case, his mother. A rough and tumble lot as teens, Sorely disgraced himself at a castle ball by asking his "true love" to dance only to be turned down, then saved by the teen-aged daughter of a noble lord, Lady Mirabelle who then also gives him the cold shoulder. Meeting again as adults, Mirabelle sneaks into Sorely's chamber with an unusual proposition, to ruin her so she won't have to marry the dastardly Sir John Sinclair who's reputation with women is most vile. Unfortunately, Sorely is honorable even though he knows Sir John is worse than that and puts Mirabelle off. So starts a story filled with danger, twists and turns, some magic and a passion to last a lifetime. As Sorely tries to curb his attention to Mirabelle while attending to the danger that Sir John presents and his obligations to the Crown, Mirabelle is intelligent enough to see through every argument he presents. The secondary characters really flesh out the story and the settings are so well-drawn that you are transported into the scenes. This story is one that the reader won't want to put down! I can't wait for the rest!
May 22, 2014
free book for honest review. juliesbookreview.blogspot.com
As one of the bastards born to the Stirling court, Sorley the Hawk has never known his mother or father. It's a burning quest he has devoted himself to uncovering at any cost. But as a roguish warrior who serves at the pleasure of the King, his prowess-both on the battlefield and in his bedchamber-is legendary. So when a flame-haired Highland lass sneaks into his quarters with a tantalizing proposition, he can't resist taking her up on her offer . . .
Lady Mirabelle MacLaren will do anything to keep from marrying her odious suitor, even sully her own good name. And who better to despoil her than his sworn enemy, the one they call "Hawk?" As they set about the enjoyable task of ruining her reputation, Hawk and Mirabelle soon learn that rebellion never tasted so sweet.
I truly love this book!! anything with highlander's in it lol... This book was amazing well-written with old English language.. tons of passion not just for two couple in this story but tales and the history, language and how they lived.. most of all the honor that we not see anymore this days..
Olivia R.
As one of the bastards born to the Stirling court, Sorley the Hawk has never known his mother or father. It's a burning quest he has devoted himself to uncovering at any cost. But as a roguish warrior who serves at the pleasure of the King, his prowess-both on the battlefield and in his bedchamber-is legendary. So when a flame-haired Highland lass sneaks into his quarters with a tantalizing proposition, he can't resist taking her up on her offer . . .
Lady Mirabelle MacLaren will do anything to keep from marrying her odious suitor, even sully her own good name. And who better to despoil her than his sworn enemy, the one they call "Hawk?" As they set about the enjoyable task of ruining her reputation, Hawk and Mirabelle soon learn that rebellion never tasted so sweet.
I truly love this book!! anything with highlander's in it lol... This book was amazing well-written with old English language.. tons of passion not just for two couple in this story but tales and the history, language and how they lived.. most of all the honor that we not see anymore this days..
Olivia R.
May 5, 2014
As usual Ms Wellfonder writes stories that grip you and make you feel as though you are inside the book, seeing and feeling all that happens yourself. I've read all of her books starting with Devil In A Kilt, enjoyed that so much that I just had to continue reading her other books. Ms Welfonder's writing captivates you so that you can't put it down, and this book is no different.
Follow Sorley the Hawk and Mirabelle through the stigma of illegitimacy, the finding of a parent and the realisation of love.
This is the first book in the Scandalous Scot series, and I can't wait for the other three.
Follow Sorley the Hawk and Mirabelle through the stigma of illegitimacy, the finding of a parent and the realisation of love.
This is the first book in the Scandalous Scot series, and I can't wait for the other three.
May 7, 2014
Ms. Welfonder does a really nice job of setting the scene of medieval Scotland, including the sight and sounds of everyday life at court. I thought the battle scenes were exceptionally well done. I’m looking forward to reading about more of Welfonder’s Scandalous Scots.
My Rating:
4.0/5.0 for a tale of a introverted warrior finding love and acceptance (and a kitten).
Full review on my blog: polishedbookworm.com
My Rating:
4.0/5.0 for a tale of a introverted warrior finding love and acceptance (and a kitten).
Full review on my blog: polishedbookworm.com
September 28, 2014
Excellent!
I love this book! a Great read
it had a very good story line!
Was very sexy and Hot!!!
I am telling everyone that I think they should read this book!!!
I didn't want it to end it was that good!!!
I felt like I was in the book and I was the heroine!!!
That is the way I like the books I read to be like this one!!!
I would definitely tell anyone to read this book it is Excellent!!!
I love this book! a Great read
it had a very good story line!
Was very sexy and Hot!!!
I am telling everyone that I think they should read this book!!!
I didn't want it to end it was that good!!!
I felt like I was in the book and I was the heroine!!!
That is the way I like the books I read to be like this one!!!
I would definitely tell anyone to read this book it is Excellent!!!
May 25, 2014
This is my first time reading this author's work. She was able to capture my interest with the first few pages. Her words came to life right before my eyes. Great development of characters on scene building.
August 27, 2015
Sorley and Maribel' s story was great. Page after page was filled with hot and steamy scenes. He is a bastard who did not know his mother or father. She is a woman who had loved him forever. They meet again and she has a sizzling proposition for him. What a grand love story. I loved it.
October 14, 2018
Duncreag Castle
Long ago, Archibald MacNab was driven from court never to return. He sired four baseborn sons with four of the King's mistresses. He knows they are somewhere in Scotland but was never allowed to see them or know them. Someone is determined to bring them into his life.
Sterling Castle - Summer - 1386
Sorley, the Hawk, is 14. He's in the Great Hall and has just been turned down for a dance with a knight's daughter because she deemed him unworthy being base-born as he is. Mirabelle MacLaren sees this and walks up to him asking him for a dance. He is thinking she is the most beautiful girl he's ever seen and soon finds Mirabelle shunning him when a woman and one of her father's guards approach telling her to end the dance and leave. She fears the guard will hurt Sorley if she doesn't shun him so she leaves. He swears that day never to trust Mirabelle's schemes again. She knows this day that she will never forget him. So starts their story.
He feels the Highlands calling him. He's always felt his father was a Highland Chieftain that didn't want a bastard son. His mother died when he was young and no one ever spoke who his father was. He knows in his heart that he will one day head for the hills and find his place in this world.
Sterling Castle - Summer 1399
Sorley is now 27. He awakes to find Mirabelle in his chamber. She's there to proposition him. She wants him to ruin her so she doesn't have to marry an older man who is determined to take her to wife. He refuses and even feels offended when she offers to pay him. He learns the man that wants Mirabelle is John Sinclair, one of Sorley's greatest enemies and he finally agrees to compromise her in front of everyone in the hall one night knowing that once John thinks she's been ruined that he will leave off with wanting her.
I really enjoyed reading as I watched these two accept the fact that they have loved each other for years. There were obstacles along the way, some dangerous, that they both grabbed by the horns and overcame. Sorley had my heart melting when it came to a kitten named Little Heart. Only a real man would do what he did and I was falling in love with him myself along the way, always with this huge grin on my face.
There is Rosalind, the Pink Lady, who is a ghost and her story itself broke my heart. Alexander Stewart, the Wolf of Badenoch and his mistress, Lady Mariota de Athyn, walked their way right into my reader heart as well. What a couple, these two, not to be messed with and God forbid you made an enemy of them for you will surely wish you never had. The Fenris Guards and the story behind them. Roag, Caelen, and Andrew, men that Sorley grew up with who have stories of their own I'd love to hear. William the inn owner. Maili, one of Sorley's closest friends. All these people warmed my heart along the way and gave greatly to the story.
Grim MacIntosh.... my heart just bursts with love for this man. He comes down from Duncreag Castle on a mission and as soon as he walks into the inn looking for Sorley, he has the women falling all over themselves. There also comes a time where he is needed with his battle ax and just the sight of him in my mind as I read the instance had me sitting here in awe of the man. My favorite two lines in the book were about Grim. The first is when Sorley is talking to one of his best friends, Maili, and she's telling him that Grim had been asking about him. She was describing him as this fierce looking warrior and this is Sorley's thought to that.....
"He also bit his tongue rather than tell Maili he didn't care if the man had the Norse God's lightning bolts shooting out his arse".
Sue-Ellen never fails to have me howling in laughter with some of the responses and lines her characters have or say. They are unique and hilarious! The next line helps describe how Maili was going on and on about Grim....
"Have done, lass!" Sorley scowled at her. "There's more to a man than his burr."
Maili sighed dreamily. "Say you."
"I do. I'll also say I'm surprised you aren't in a hurry to race back to the Red Lion. If this Grim is such a paragon" ---- Sorley didn't hide his annoyance ---- "I'd think you'd be eager to return to his bed. Sakes, you look close to needing to fan your face each time you speak of him."
Now if you've read anything about Grim, we all know how deeply he loves his lady wife, Breena, and that he would never be anything but true to her. I'm here to tell you that I, myself, have to fan myself when Grim comes on the scene. Needless to say, he stands with Sorley to right wrongs. Sorley finds himself with several wrongs righted in this story and each and every one lead him to realize all these years he has been a worthy man. Mirabelle has spunk and knows how to use it. I say that smiling. I love her strength and the way that her and Sorley compliment the other with their strengths.
Again, I was taken in with Scotland and it's beauty, for I can see it in my mind as I read Sue-Ellen's words. The people, the land, castles, and inn....the food, the clothing, the battles, all of it imprinted clearly within. One of my greatest loves about her writing is the way she describes things so clearly and it comes from her love of the place, the times, and the people. This is one book that you won't want to put down until you've finished. I am so excited to continue this series following these Scandalous Scots!
Long ago, Archibald MacNab was driven from court never to return. He sired four baseborn sons with four of the King's mistresses. He knows they are somewhere in Scotland but was never allowed to see them or know them. Someone is determined to bring them into his life.
Sterling Castle - Summer - 1386
Sorley, the Hawk, is 14. He's in the Great Hall and has just been turned down for a dance with a knight's daughter because she deemed him unworthy being base-born as he is. Mirabelle MacLaren sees this and walks up to him asking him for a dance. He is thinking she is the most beautiful girl he's ever seen and soon finds Mirabelle shunning him when a woman and one of her father's guards approach telling her to end the dance and leave. She fears the guard will hurt Sorley if she doesn't shun him so she leaves. He swears that day never to trust Mirabelle's schemes again. She knows this day that she will never forget him. So starts their story.
He feels the Highlands calling him. He's always felt his father was a Highland Chieftain that didn't want a bastard son. His mother died when he was young and no one ever spoke who his father was. He knows in his heart that he will one day head for the hills and find his place in this world.
Sterling Castle - Summer 1399
Sorley is now 27. He awakes to find Mirabelle in his chamber. She's there to proposition him. She wants him to ruin her so she doesn't have to marry an older man who is determined to take her to wife. He refuses and even feels offended when she offers to pay him. He learns the man that wants Mirabelle is John Sinclair, one of Sorley's greatest enemies and he finally agrees to compromise her in front of everyone in the hall one night knowing that once John thinks she's been ruined that he will leave off with wanting her.
I really enjoyed reading as I watched these two accept the fact that they have loved each other for years. There were obstacles along the way, some dangerous, that they both grabbed by the horns and overcame. Sorley had my heart melting when it came to a kitten named Little Heart. Only a real man would do what he did and I was falling in love with him myself along the way, always with this huge grin on my face.
There is Rosalind, the Pink Lady, who is a ghost and her story itself broke my heart. Alexander Stewart, the Wolf of Badenoch and his mistress, Lady Mariota de Athyn, walked their way right into my reader heart as well. What a couple, these two, not to be messed with and God forbid you made an enemy of them for you will surely wish you never had. The Fenris Guards and the story behind them. Roag, Caelen, and Andrew, men that Sorley grew up with who have stories of their own I'd love to hear. William the inn owner. Maili, one of Sorley's closest friends. All these people warmed my heart along the way and gave greatly to the story.
Grim MacIntosh.... my heart just bursts with love for this man. He comes down from Duncreag Castle on a mission and as soon as he walks into the inn looking for Sorley, he has the women falling all over themselves. There also comes a time where he is needed with his battle ax and just the sight of him in my mind as I read the instance had me sitting here in awe of the man. My favorite two lines in the book were about Grim. The first is when Sorley is talking to one of his best friends, Maili, and she's telling him that Grim had been asking about him. She was describing him as this fierce looking warrior and this is Sorley's thought to that.....
"He also bit his tongue rather than tell Maili he didn't care if the man had the Norse God's lightning bolts shooting out his arse".
Sue-Ellen never fails to have me howling in laughter with some of the responses and lines her characters have or say. They are unique and hilarious! The next line helps describe how Maili was going on and on about Grim....
"Have done, lass!" Sorley scowled at her. "There's more to a man than his burr."
Maili sighed dreamily. "Say you."
"I do. I'll also say I'm surprised you aren't in a hurry to race back to the Red Lion. If this Grim is such a paragon" ---- Sorley didn't hide his annoyance ---- "I'd think you'd be eager to return to his bed. Sakes, you look close to needing to fan your face each time you speak of him."
Now if you've read anything about Grim, we all know how deeply he loves his lady wife, Breena, and that he would never be anything but true to her. I'm here to tell you that I, myself, have to fan myself when Grim comes on the scene. Needless to say, he stands with Sorley to right wrongs. Sorley finds himself with several wrongs righted in this story and each and every one lead him to realize all these years he has been a worthy man. Mirabelle has spunk and knows how to use it. I say that smiling. I love her strength and the way that her and Sorley compliment the other with their strengths.
Again, I was taken in with Scotland and it's beauty, for I can see it in my mind as I read Sue-Ellen's words. The people, the land, castles, and inn....the food, the clothing, the battles, all of it imprinted clearly within. One of my greatest loves about her writing is the way she describes things so clearly and it comes from her love of the place, the times, and the people. This is one book that you won't want to put down until you've finished. I am so excited to continue this series following these Scandalous Scots!
May 9, 2014
3 ½ Stars
Originally posted at The Bookaholic Cat
To Love a Highlander is the first book in the Scandalous Scots series by Sue-Ellen Welfonder.
To Love a Highlander starts in the past with the story of Archibald MacNab and his time as the barb of Sterling Castle. Archibald was not only the king’s favorite bard, he was also a favorite of many ladies, including the King’s four favorite mistresses. His love for these ladies (he impregnated them) causes him to lose the king’s favoritism and more. The king can forgive many things but not this. He’s banishes Archibald from court and orders him to never look for the women or for his bastards, if he disobeys he will not only lose his title and lands but also his life.
Archibald made a life in Duncreag Castle, where he found the love of a good woman who gave him many children, but everything changed one day when his castle was attacked and his wife and children were killed. With nothing to live for Archibald is ready to give up on life, but his good friend Grim MacIntosh has other plans for him.
To Love a Highlander is the story of one of his bastards, Sorley the Hawk. The other bastards are Roag the Bear, Caelen the Fox, and Andrew the Addar
Sorley grew up in Sterling Castle next to his half-brothers not knowing the connection between them. Being a bastard in a court is not easy. Day after day since he can remember he has to prove his worth. Being part of a secret guard known as the Fenris has helped him somehow to find a place in court, still the stigma of being a bastard follows him wherever he goes. The hardest part about it is not been able to court the woman he has desired since he was fourteen, the beautiful Lady Mirabelle Maclaren.
Sorley can’t believe his eyes when years later he finds her in his room and is even more astonished by her request. Lady Mirabelle wants him to ruin her. She is desperate because she doesn’t want to be betrothed to Sir John Sinclair, a man she despises. Lady Mirabelle knows Sorley and Sir John are enemies and is sure Sir John will not go forward with the betrothal if he learns of her indiscretion with Sorley. The only problem is Sorley doesn’t want to ruin her, he may be a ladies man, but he has strict rules about what kind of women he beds and a virgin Lady is not one of those. Still, Sorley knows what kind of man Sir John is and comes with a plan to help Lady Mirabelle, a plan that if they are not careful can backfire with dire consequences.
I liked Sorley, I liked that he is a man with honor and protective of those he cares for, but sometimes he was a bit too headstrong for my taste, especially towards his friends (half-brothers).
Lady Mirabelle is gentle and has a good heart. She’s bit modern for the times, but maybe growing up with a scholar for a father made her like that. I liked that she took matters on her hands and wasn’t a weak flower. My only problem with her was that during the course of the story she had a clear opportunity to get rid of Sir John without involving Sorley and she didn’t take it, that diminished her a bit on my eyes, because it made her feel like an infatuated child, instead of the smart woman she’s supposed to be.
Since their first encounter it is obvious there is chemistry between Sorley and Lady Mirabelle, a chemistry that only increases as they spend more time together, but they don’t come together until very late in the story. This helps to create tension, but it also drags the story a bit much.
I liked almost all the secondary characters, especially Grim MacIntosh, the innkeeper, William Wyldes and Sorley’s friend, Maili. We don’t see much of Sorley’s half brothers, but the little we see is very promising.
I had problems with two of the secondary characters, Sir John, the villain and Rosalind, the ghost of the Pink Lady.
My problem with Sir John was that from his physical description to his behavior he felt like a caricature. My problem with the Pink Lady was that even though she was mention many times and we also see her point of view in reality she didn’t bring anything to the story. She never interacted with the characters or had any part in the story; her presence was completely pointless in my opinion.
To Love a Highlander is a sweet, well-written and enjoyable historical romance. I’m sure fans of this genre will like this book.
Second book in the series, To Desire a Highlander, will be Roag the Bear’s book and it’ll be release on November 25th.
Originally posted at The Bookaholic Cat
To Love a Highlander is the first book in the Scandalous Scots series by Sue-Ellen Welfonder.
To Love a Highlander starts in the past with the story of Archibald MacNab and his time as the barb of Sterling Castle. Archibald was not only the king’s favorite bard, he was also a favorite of many ladies, including the King’s four favorite mistresses. His love for these ladies (he impregnated them) causes him to lose the king’s favoritism and more. The king can forgive many things but not this. He’s banishes Archibald from court and orders him to never look for the women or for his bastards, if he disobeys he will not only lose his title and lands but also his life.
Archibald made a life in Duncreag Castle, where he found the love of a good woman who gave him many children, but everything changed one day when his castle was attacked and his wife and children were killed. With nothing to live for Archibald is ready to give up on life, but his good friend Grim MacIntosh has other plans for him.
To Love a Highlander is the story of one of his bastards, Sorley the Hawk. The other bastards are Roag the Bear, Caelen the Fox, and Andrew the Addar
Sorley grew up in Sterling Castle next to his half-brothers not knowing the connection between them. Being a bastard in a court is not easy. Day after day since he can remember he has to prove his worth. Being part of a secret guard known as the Fenris has helped him somehow to find a place in court, still the stigma of being a bastard follows him wherever he goes. The hardest part about it is not been able to court the woman he has desired since he was fourteen, the beautiful Lady Mirabelle Maclaren.
Sorley can’t believe his eyes when years later he finds her in his room and is even more astonished by her request. Lady Mirabelle wants him to ruin her. She is desperate because she doesn’t want to be betrothed to Sir John Sinclair, a man she despises. Lady Mirabelle knows Sorley and Sir John are enemies and is sure Sir John will not go forward with the betrothal if he learns of her indiscretion with Sorley. The only problem is Sorley doesn’t want to ruin her, he may be a ladies man, but he has strict rules about what kind of women he beds and a virgin Lady is not one of those. Still, Sorley knows what kind of man Sir John is and comes with a plan to help Lady Mirabelle, a plan that if they are not careful can backfire with dire consequences.
I liked Sorley, I liked that he is a man with honor and protective of those he cares for, but sometimes he was a bit too headstrong for my taste, especially towards his friends (half-brothers).
Lady Mirabelle is gentle and has a good heart. She’s bit modern for the times, but maybe growing up with a scholar for a father made her like that. I liked that she took matters on her hands and wasn’t a weak flower. My only problem with her was that during the course of the story she had a clear opportunity to get rid of Sir John without involving Sorley and she didn’t take it, that diminished her a bit on my eyes, because it made her feel like an infatuated child, instead of the smart woman she’s supposed to be.
Since their first encounter it is obvious there is chemistry between Sorley and Lady Mirabelle, a chemistry that only increases as they spend more time together, but they don’t come together until very late in the story. This helps to create tension, but it also drags the story a bit much.
I liked almost all the secondary characters, especially Grim MacIntosh, the innkeeper, William Wyldes and Sorley’s friend, Maili. We don’t see much of Sorley’s half brothers, but the little we see is very promising.
I had problems with two of the secondary characters, Sir John, the villain and Rosalind, the ghost of the Pink Lady.
My problem with Sir John was that from his physical description to his behavior he felt like a caricature. My problem with the Pink Lady was that even though she was mention many times and we also see her point of view in reality she didn’t bring anything to the story. She never interacted with the characters or had any part in the story; her presence was completely pointless in my opinion.
To Love a Highlander is a sweet, well-written and enjoyable historical romance. I’m sure fans of this genre will like this book.
Second book in the series, To Desire a Highlander, will be Roag the Bear’s book and it’ll be release on November 25th.
May 10, 2014
I loved this book! As a newcomer to Sue-Ellen's books, I am thoroughly impressed by her writing, world building, and storytelling! I was hooked from page one and stayed hooked through the end! It's definitely a novel that is hard to put down because it is a beautiful Highland love story with plenty of romance, sensuality, and second chances.
The plot and pacing of this story are absolutely amazing. The plot is both fun and scandalous. I thoroughly enjoyed the back story that opens the book and was really glad to get more information and to see the prologue be brought full circle. From the beginning, the reader is shown that book is deeply driven by emotion- sadness, desire, passion, love. Each character brings something to the story and most are quite likable. Mirabelle is as fiery as her hair is. She is brave and intelligent and a really great main female character. She is a character that I would love to befriend and one that is easy to see why Sorley falls for her. Sorley on the other hand is incredibly sexy, fearless, and passionate. I loved is the difference in their station, and how love overcame that difference. And did I mention that To Love A Highlander is as sexy as it is romantic? Mirabelle and Sorley have wonderful chemistry that is undeniable from the moment they meet.
One of my favorite things about this story is that the two main characters have met before; they have a past that is key in the larger part of the story. I also loved Sorley's progression through the novel. I've never read a story that focused on a bastard before, but I loved how he rose in ranks and in favor, and strove to be more than a bastard. It is equally satisfying to see Sorley, quite the ladies man, fall head over heels in love for Mirabelle. (Watching him struggle with and fight his desire for her was very entertaining.) I find that with characters like Sorley, it makes the story even more beautiful and powerful when they truly fall in love.
This was a great novel and a fantastic introduction to a new series that I will definitely be reading more of!
The plot and pacing of this story are absolutely amazing. The plot is both fun and scandalous. I thoroughly enjoyed the back story that opens the book and was really glad to get more information and to see the prologue be brought full circle. From the beginning, the reader is shown that book is deeply driven by emotion- sadness, desire, passion, love. Each character brings something to the story and most are quite likable. Mirabelle is as fiery as her hair is. She is brave and intelligent and a really great main female character. She is a character that I would love to befriend and one that is easy to see why Sorley falls for her. Sorley on the other hand is incredibly sexy, fearless, and passionate. I loved is the difference in their station, and how love overcame that difference. And did I mention that To Love A Highlander is as sexy as it is romantic? Mirabelle and Sorley have wonderful chemistry that is undeniable from the moment they meet.
One of my favorite things about this story is that the two main characters have met before; they have a past that is key in the larger part of the story. I also loved Sorley's progression through the novel. I've never read a story that focused on a bastard before, but I loved how he rose in ranks and in favor, and strove to be more than a bastard. It is equally satisfying to see Sorley, quite the ladies man, fall head over heels in love for Mirabelle. (Watching him struggle with and fight his desire for her was very entertaining.) I find that with characters like Sorley, it makes the story even more beautiful and powerful when they truly fall in love.
This was a great novel and a fantastic introduction to a new series that I will definitely be reading more of!
May 21, 2014
To Love a Highlander is the first in the Scandalous Scots series by Sue-Ellen Welfonder. It takes place in 1399 which might be the earliest highlander timeframe I've read. In terms of language, I think it was rather authentic. I find there can be very little Scots speak or too much and this one balances it well.
I'm not sure if it was because of the language that I had sort of a hard time reading the book. I found the lust addled protagonists to just be that. From the premise, it said Mirabelle was going to seek out Sorley in order to ruin her so that she could prevent marriage to an odious man. But other than that, there's not much conflict. So much is of the temptation Mirabelle poses to Sorley and all the things he would do to her, but doesn't and shouldn't do. And so much of Mirabelle is how attracted and how much desire is building within her. There's the side story of Sorley's parentage, but the villain of John Sinclair, but what else is there?
I thought the first two chapters were promising. The tale of the bard and his amours and children. And of Mirabelle and Sorley has young children. But the language is so dense and so repetitive that if you cut down a lot of it, there would hardly be any story to it.
I think what got is that when the two characters are together, it's more about the lust and attraction than anything deeper. Maybe this is suppose to be a characteristic of medieval Scotland. There's so much description of the earth and of the battlements, which is great because you really do get a sense of what it looks like. And also, having been to Stirling and to its castle, it's nice to read of a place I've been too.
There were parts that seemed like storytelling. Sorley's father was the king's bard, so there were times where I got that sense. Like this is part of some kind of oral storytelling. Which isn't bad, but not my usual cup of historical romance.
I'm not sure if it was because of the language that I had sort of a hard time reading the book. I found the lust addled protagonists to just be that. From the premise, it said Mirabelle was going to seek out Sorley in order to ruin her so that she could prevent marriage to an odious man. But other than that, there's not much conflict. So much is of the temptation Mirabelle poses to Sorley and all the things he would do to her, but doesn't and shouldn't do. And so much of Mirabelle is how attracted and how much desire is building within her. There's the side story of Sorley's parentage, but the villain of John Sinclair, but what else is there?
I thought the first two chapters were promising. The tale of the bard and his amours and children. And of Mirabelle and Sorley has young children. But the language is so dense and so repetitive that if you cut down a lot of it, there would hardly be any story to it.
I think what got is that when the two characters are together, it's more about the lust and attraction than anything deeper. Maybe this is suppose to be a characteristic of medieval Scotland. There's so much description of the earth and of the battlements, which is great because you really do get a sense of what it looks like. And also, having been to Stirling and to its castle, it's nice to read of a place I've been too.
There were parts that seemed like storytelling. Sorley's father was the king's bard, so there were times where I got that sense. Like this is part of some kind of oral storytelling. Which isn't bad, but not my usual cup of historical romance.
April 28, 2014
I have read several stories that Ms. Welfonder has written about the romance of the Highlands and I have enjoyed each one, she takes us to a wonderful land full of beauty, magic and of course those Highland men. This is the start of the Scandalous Scots series and with such a great beginning I am ready for more.
Archie MacNab was banished from Stirling Castle several years ago, his love for women and the fact that he can be irresistible caused him the lose favor with the King. He has lived in the Highlands,
Duncreag Castle, happily with his wife and children until recently when it was attacked and most were killed. He is now older and sorry for his ways but his friend Grim wants to help him, so travels to Stirling Castle for the truth.
Sorley the Hawk was born a court bastard, he does not know who his father or mother were and thus was looked down upon his whole life. He has grown up proud but always believes he belongs somewhere different. He is a great warrior and has been a part of the Fenris Guard, a secret organization that works for the King.
Lady Mirabelle MacLaren is from the Highlands, she is traveling with her father, a scholar for the King. She is afraid of what the future holds so has a plan that involves Sorley; she wants him to ruin her so Sir John Sinclair will not want to marry. Sorley is intrigued and agrees to the plan, not only to crush Sir John but also to be near Mirabelle.
I truly enjoyed this story of these two lovers set in the Highlands. This is the start of a new series about four men who start out life on the wrong side of legitimacy but rise about it, living life to the fullest and along the way finding their true loves.
Complete review at: Ramblings from a Chaotic Mind
Copy from publisher for an honest review
Archie MacNab was banished from Stirling Castle several years ago, his love for women and the fact that he can be irresistible caused him the lose favor with the King. He has lived in the Highlands,
Duncreag Castle, happily with his wife and children until recently when it was attacked and most were killed. He is now older and sorry for his ways but his friend Grim wants to help him, so travels to Stirling Castle for the truth.
Sorley the Hawk was born a court bastard, he does not know who his father or mother were and thus was looked down upon his whole life. He has grown up proud but always believes he belongs somewhere different. He is a great warrior and has been a part of the Fenris Guard, a secret organization that works for the King.
Lady Mirabelle MacLaren is from the Highlands, she is traveling with her father, a scholar for the King. She is afraid of what the future holds so has a plan that involves Sorley; she wants him to ruin her so Sir John Sinclair will not want to marry. Sorley is intrigued and agrees to the plan, not only to crush Sir John but also to be near Mirabelle.
I truly enjoyed this story of these two lovers set in the Highlands. This is the start of a new series about four men who start out life on the wrong side of legitimacy but rise about it, living life to the fullest and along the way finding their true loves.
Complete review at: Ramblings from a Chaotic Mind
Copy from publisher for an honest review
November 19, 2018
I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
I've only read a few Scottish romances before this, and most were by the same two authors. So this one had me a bit off put by a word (can't find it now) in place of are in the dialogue, but only at first.
The second thing was that this series is connected with the Highland Warriors series. Not that you can't read this one alone, you can.
There were many subplots to this book. Grim's arrival. Their missions. But the main plot was of Mirabelle wanting to be ruined so Sinclair did not ask for her hand. So she goes to Sorley to be ruined.
The subplots made the story complex and sometimes confusing with people going hither and yon, and a lot of the time, the romance fell to the wayside. I'm not talking about the physical aspects (okay, maybe I am just a little). I'm talking about the interaction between them. There was a lot of it, but it wasn't the relationship-buildy kind. It was more her saying he was a part of something and him denying it, or they spoke of Sinclair.
In the end, we get the lovely confrontation between the good guys and bad guys and HEA that we all love.
The book for me was a good read.
2018-- as I haven't touched this book in years, I've found that I missed out the first time on the hint of him getting revenge on her from an incident when they were younger. And that he thinks she doesn't remember him (that came up from time to time when he hinted) That plot fizzled quickly and the the former only comes back as his thoughts that quickly disappear and at the end where she tells him she loved him since that moment. And a hurried explanation as to why she did what she did.
Still a good book.
I've only read a few Scottish romances before this, and most were by the same two authors. So this one had me a bit off put by a word (can't find it now) in place of are in the dialogue, but only at first.
The second thing was that this series is connected with the Highland Warriors series. Not that you can't read this one alone, you can.
There were many subplots to this book. Grim's arrival. Their missions. But the main plot was of Mirabelle wanting to be ruined so Sinclair did not ask for her hand. So she goes to Sorley to be ruined.
The subplots made the story complex and sometimes confusing with people going hither and yon, and a lot of the time, the romance fell to the wayside. I'm not talking about the physical aspects (okay, maybe I am just a little). I'm talking about the interaction between them. There was a lot of it, but it wasn't the relationship-buildy kind. It was more her saying he was a part of something and him denying it, or they spoke of Sinclair.
In the end, we get the lovely confrontation between the good guys and bad guys and HEA that we all love.
The book for me was a good read.
2018-- as I haven't touched this book in years, I've found that I missed out the first time on the hint of him getting revenge on her from an incident when they were younger. And that he thinks she doesn't remember him (that came up from time to time when he hinted) That plot fizzled quickly and the the former only comes back as his thoughts that quickly disappear and at the end where she tells him she loved him since that moment. And a hurried explanation as to why she did what she did.
Still a good book.
June 19, 2014
The book started out fine, but right from the beginning, something seemed familiar about the book - well at least the hero.
About two chapters in, the feeling for stronger and then i remembered - I read Monica Mccarty's book The Hawk: A Highland Guard Novel and the hero in that book was Erik MacSorley aka the Hawk.
Honestly, this could have been the best book ever written - but I kept thinking of Ms Mccarty's Hawk and this book fell short. The similarities were too much - the name, the secret kings guard, the code name, the hero's rep as a great lover (oh wait - that is the same in every HR - so that gets a pass)
Then at the end of the book after the bad guy gets his due - Sorley wants to protect the villains family - because they are blameless and tells Mirabelle that he is protecting his "lady wife" and family - hold the phone! The villains lady wife? Doesn't that destroy the entire reason Mirabelle asked Sorley to help her in the first place? Because the villain wanted to marry her? And if Sorley knew he had a wife, why didn't he just say so in the beginning? I think that was just a mistake - but how did that slip by?
I am not giving up on this series. Ms Welfonder is a talented author and writes a good book, it is just unfortunate that this book has so many similarities to Ms Mccarty's book - that I could help comparing the two and found this one lacking.
About two chapters in, the feeling for stronger and then i remembered - I read Monica Mccarty's book The Hawk: A Highland Guard Novel and the hero in that book was Erik MacSorley aka the Hawk.
Honestly, this could have been the best book ever written - but I kept thinking of Ms Mccarty's Hawk and this book fell short. The similarities were too much - the name, the secret kings guard, the code name, the hero's rep as a great lover (oh wait - that is the same in every HR - so that gets a pass)
Then at the end of the book after the bad guy gets his due - Sorley wants to protect the villains family - because they are blameless and tells Mirabelle that he is protecting his "lady wife" and family - hold the phone! The villains lady wife? Doesn't that destroy the entire reason Mirabelle asked Sorley to help her in the first place? Because the villain wanted to marry her? And if Sorley knew he had a wife, why didn't he just say so in the beginning? I think that was just a mistake - but how did that slip by?
I am not giving up on this series. Ms Welfonder is a talented author and writes a good book, it is just unfortunate that this book has so many similarities to Ms Mccarty's book - that I could help comparing the two and found this one lacking.
May 1, 2014
Review Posted on Harlequin Junkies.com
To Love A Highlander by Sue-Ellen Welfonder: Sue-Ellen Welfonder is an author who is well-known for her Highland based romances. To Love A Highlander is a great addition to her collection and the first book of her Scandalous Scots series. It is a quirky and cheerful book, entertainingly written and sweetly dedicated to a kitten who had a sad fate, but lives on in this book.
Set in the late 1300s this is the story of Sorley the Hawk, a royal court bastard who has worked his way up in the ranks of service to the king. Although now in his late twenties, when he was fourteen he happened to dance with Mirabelle MacLaren, the daughter of the Highland Lord. Although the dance didn’t end well, Sorley never forgot her. Read More
To Love A Highlander by Sue-Ellen Welfonder: Sue-Ellen Welfonder is an author who is well-known for her Highland based romances. To Love A Highlander is a great addition to her collection and the first book of her Scandalous Scots series. It is a quirky and cheerful book, entertainingly written and sweetly dedicated to a kitten who had a sad fate, but lives on in this book.
Set in the late 1300s this is the story of Sorley the Hawk, a royal court bastard who has worked his way up in the ranks of service to the king. Although now in his late twenties, when he was fourteen he happened to dance with Mirabelle MacLaren, the daughter of the Highland Lord. Although the dance didn’t end well, Sorley never forgot her. Read More
April 30, 2014
Really enjoyed their love story!!!
Sorley and Mirabelle had meet in their teens in one memorable incident that neither forgot. Years later Mirabelle is facing somewhat of a crisis and decides Sorley is her help/answer out. Well let me tell you when they reconnect.... sparks fly, chemistry permeates the atmosphere whenever they are together and they challenge each other to no end. Wow talk about a build up and slow burn. Loved these two together. They are both intellegent and have great conversations, sweet together, oh hot too and each is very likeable.
I love medieval romance and the author did an excellent job not only on the romance portion but setting up the visual and scenic back drop. I pictured what she described in her scenes whether a room, clothing or the beautiful hills of the highlands.
Great book and looking forward to her next.
Sorley and Mirabelle had meet in their teens in one memorable incident that neither forgot. Years later Mirabelle is facing somewhat of a crisis and decides Sorley is her help/answer out. Well let me tell you when they reconnect.... sparks fly, chemistry permeates the atmosphere whenever they are together and they challenge each other to no end. Wow talk about a build up and slow burn. Loved these two together. They are both intellegent and have great conversations, sweet together, oh hot too and each is very likeable.
I love medieval romance and the author did an excellent job not only on the romance portion but setting up the visual and scenic back drop. I pictured what she described in her scenes whether a room, clothing or the beautiful hills of the highlands.
Great book and looking forward to her next.
May 26, 2014
Wonderful book that keeps you turning the pages long after the clock has struck 10pm. I read all of Sue-Ellens books and the characters come to life on the pages. You are cheering them on, laughing with them and crying with them. And the Scottish countryside springs to life around you and makes me miss it every time I read one of the books. Since I visited Stirling castle this book in particular makes me want to go back and spend more time there.
June 30, 2014
Pretty cute!
September 21, 2014
Dnf. Read to about page 150 and couldn't stand it anymore .
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