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Claimed by the Highlander #2
When a Laird Takes a Lady
In the Highlands of Scotland, honor and loyalty are worth more than life itself. But when a haunted woman meets a wronged warrior, love will prove more powerful than anything they have ever known.
Isabail Grant has had to be strong all her life. Over the years, she has lost everyone close to her, and now she’s seeking justice for her brother’s murder. But en route to Edinburgh to petition the king, she is kidnapped by a fierce warrior—and is shocked to find herself irresistibly drawn to her captor.
Aiden MacCurran is an outlaw. The laird of a small clan, he’s been falsely accused of killing the king’s courier and stealing the Crown’s property—and the key to clearing his name and redeeming his clan lies in Isabail’s memories. But Aiden and Isabail must first weather deceit and treachery before they can find the truth and claim the love that’s growing between them.
Isabail Grant has had to be strong all her life. Over the years, she has lost everyone close to her, and now she’s seeking justice for her brother’s murder. But en route to Edinburgh to petition the king, she is kidnapped by a fierce warrior—and is shocked to find herself irresistibly drawn to her captor.
Aiden MacCurran is an outlaw. The laird of a small clan, he’s been falsely accused of killing the king’s courier and stealing the Crown’s property—and the key to clearing his name and redeeming his clan lies in Isabail’s memories. But Aiden and Isabail must first weather deceit and treachery before they can find the truth and claim the love that’s growing between them.
368 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published May 6, 2014
About the author
Rowan Keats
9 books60 followersProfessional daydreamer. Part-time wordsmith. Lover of movie theater popcorn, quiet sunrises, and all things medieval.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
August 11, 2016
This one gets a D from me at AAR. I was considering a C- simply because of the fact that one of the characters is mauled by badgers, but nah, it's still a D.
I’ve said elsewhere that novels set in the Medieval Highlands aren’t really my cup of tea, given the fact that they all seem to utilise the same plot: Hero and heroine from opposing clans are thrown together and swear eternal hatred while trying not to screw each other stupid at every opportunity.
For some reason, I just can’t seem to get on with that particular trope, whereas in other historicals I’m quite content to read a marriage-of-convenience/ duke-marries-governess/ second-chance romance or other well-used plotline. Maybe it’s the proliferation of feisty heroines who insist on disobeying the very alpha hero, thereby placing themselves in dangerous situations of their own making.
This is the second book in Ms Keats’ Claimed by a Highlander series, and almost immediately, I felt at a disadvantage in not having read the first book (Taming a Wild Scot - not that I have any intention of subjecting myself to it). There is a plotline concerning a stolen necklace which I’ve discovered runs through both books (and presumably any subsequent ones, as the mystery is not solved in this one), which appears out of nowhere, and the significance of which continues to elude me.
Lady Isabail Macintosh is on her way to Edinburgh in order to attempt to obtain justice for her brother’s murder when she is captured by Aiden MacCurran, the very man she suspects is responsible for her brother’s death. MacCurran is the laird of a small clan and is now outlawed and under suspicion of theft and murder. If his clan is to survive, he must clear his name and be restored to his rightful place and property, and he kidnaps Isabail and takes her to his camp in the belief that she has information that can help him to do so.
She tries – and fails – to escape. She challenges him. He scares her. She tries not to notice his muscular warmth. He tries not to think about getting under her skirt.
In the couple of days or so that they have known each other, she starts to doubt her conviction that Aiden is guilty of her brother’s murder and is giving credence to his story that there was a mysterious man in black at the castle on the same day that the necklace was stolen and the murder took place. Aiden suddenly decides Isabail is intelligent, loyal, and just plain incredible – although as they’re mid-snog up against a wall at the time, it’s possible his judgement might be slightly impaired. And she hasn’t had a shag in the four years since her husband died, so she might not be thinking straight, either.
Shortly after this, her brother’s most loyal servant, Daniel, is found near the camp, having been seriously wounded in a badger attack.
Yes, you read that right.
He was attacked by badgers. I know they can be vicious little bastards, but I really couldn’t help laughing my head off at that part!
Daniel makes Isabail start to doubt Aiden and he convinces her to search the tunnels at the edge of the camp for the necklace – but she manages to get herself locked into a secret room and would have died, but for the efforts of Ana Bisset (heroine of the first book) who has magical healing powers.
I’m really struggling to remember much more about this mess of a book. The characters are two-dimensional at best and the romance – if one can call it that – is under-developed and unconvincing. There is no chemistry whatsoever between the leads and the one very lacklustre sex scene is completely pointless. The heroine has the brilliant idea, following a battle, of moving the bodies of the opposing warriors before burying them, so the clan chief won’t blame the MacCurrans for their deaths. Aiden is so delighted with this amazingly clever thought that he promises Isabail a proper thank you, which, it turns out, takes the form of “playing the instrument of her desire with his tongue.”
Obviously, in the days before chocolates and flowers, men needed to be a bit more creative.
But when the couple does the actual deed – or I should say, “if”, because it’s not all that clear – it happens off screen. Huh? Ms. Keats, you can (tamely) write cunnilingus but not actual sex?
I feel cheated of double-entendres about sizeable sporrans, descriptions of throbbing members, and dewy, unfolding petals.
Even after a night of passion – possibly – Isabail still can’t bring herself to completely trust Aiden and helps Daniel to escape. But that goes horribly wrong, Daniel betrays her and – wait for it – runs her through with his sword. (That’s not a euphemism, I mean an actual sword!) This happens on page 238, but the book is 332 pages, so it’s obvious she doesn’t die. Cue Ana’s magical healing powers again, I suspect, although that also happens off-screen.
Just a couple of days after suffering a near-fatal stomach wound, Isabail is heaving herself up out of bed, walking, and mounting a horse, when I couldn’t even vacuum the house or drive a car for at least six weeks after a caesarean. She is intent on helping Aiden to track down Daniel and retrieve the stolen necklace, because a seriously injured woman is just what he needs to “help” him when he’s got to face a dangerous foe.
I lost patience with both Isabail and the book before that point and probably wouldn’t have finished it had I not been reviewing it. There are large chunks of the story where nothing really happens; because of the overarching plot, it doesn’t work as a standalone and the ending is rather anticlimactic. I wasn’t engaged by the writing, which was workmanlike, but nothing special, and don’t care enough about the characters to want to find out what happens next. Needless to say, I won’t be picking up the next book in the series. I have plenty of books I know I’ll enjoy on my TBR pile to want to waste time on another uninspiring effort.
I’ve said elsewhere that novels set in the Medieval Highlands aren’t really my cup of tea, given the fact that they all seem to utilise the same plot: Hero and heroine from opposing clans are thrown together and swear eternal hatred while trying not to screw each other stupid at every opportunity.
For some reason, I just can’t seem to get on with that particular trope, whereas in other historicals I’m quite content to read a marriage-of-convenience/ duke-marries-governess/ second-chance romance or other well-used plotline. Maybe it’s the proliferation of feisty heroines who insist on disobeying the very alpha hero, thereby placing themselves in dangerous situations of their own making.
This is the second book in Ms Keats’ Claimed by a Highlander series, and almost immediately, I felt at a disadvantage in not having read the first book (Taming a Wild Scot - not that I have any intention of subjecting myself to it). There is a plotline concerning a stolen necklace which I’ve discovered runs through both books (and presumably any subsequent ones, as the mystery is not solved in this one), which appears out of nowhere, and the significance of which continues to elude me.
Lady Isabail Macintosh is on her way to Edinburgh in order to attempt to obtain justice for her brother’s murder when she is captured by Aiden MacCurran, the very man she suspects is responsible for her brother’s death. MacCurran is the laird of a small clan and is now outlawed and under suspicion of theft and murder. If his clan is to survive, he must clear his name and be restored to his rightful place and property, and he kidnaps Isabail and takes her to his camp in the belief that she has information that can help him to do so.
She tries – and fails – to escape. She challenges him. He scares her. She tries not to notice his muscular warmth. He tries not to think about getting under her skirt.
In the couple of days or so that they have known each other, she starts to doubt her conviction that Aiden is guilty of her brother’s murder and is giving credence to his story that there was a mysterious man in black at the castle on the same day that the necklace was stolen and the murder took place. Aiden suddenly decides Isabail is intelligent, loyal, and just plain incredible – although as they’re mid-snog up against a wall at the time, it’s possible his judgement might be slightly impaired. And she hasn’t had a shag in the four years since her husband died, so she might not be thinking straight, either.
Shortly after this, her brother’s most loyal servant, Daniel, is found near the camp, having been seriously wounded in a badger attack.
Yes, you read that right.
He was attacked by badgers. I know they can be vicious little bastards, but I really couldn’t help laughing my head off at that part!
Daniel makes Isabail start to doubt Aiden and he convinces her to search the tunnels at the edge of the camp for the necklace – but she manages to get herself locked into a secret room and would have died, but for the efforts of Ana Bisset (heroine of the first book) who has magical healing powers.
I’m really struggling to remember much more about this mess of a book. The characters are two-dimensional at best and the romance – if one can call it that – is under-developed and unconvincing. There is no chemistry whatsoever between the leads and the one very lacklustre sex scene is completely pointless. The heroine has the brilliant idea, following a battle, of moving the bodies of the opposing warriors before burying them, so the clan chief won’t blame the MacCurrans for their deaths. Aiden is so delighted with this amazingly clever thought that he promises Isabail a proper thank you, which, it turns out, takes the form of “playing the instrument of her desire with his tongue.”
Obviously, in the days before chocolates and flowers, men needed to be a bit more creative.
But when the couple does the actual deed – or I should say, “if”, because it’s not all that clear – it happens off screen. Huh? Ms. Keats, you can (tamely) write cunnilingus but not actual sex?
I feel cheated of double-entendres about sizeable sporrans, descriptions of throbbing members, and dewy, unfolding petals.
Even after a night of passion – possibly – Isabail still can’t bring herself to completely trust Aiden and helps Daniel to escape. But that goes horribly wrong, Daniel betrays her and – wait for it – runs her through with his sword. (That’s not a euphemism, I mean an actual sword!) This happens on page 238, but the book is 332 pages, so it’s obvious she doesn’t die. Cue Ana’s magical healing powers again, I suspect, although that also happens off-screen.
Just a couple of days after suffering a near-fatal stomach wound, Isabail is heaving herself up out of bed, walking, and mounting a horse, when I couldn’t even vacuum the house or drive a car for at least six weeks after a caesarean. She is intent on helping Aiden to track down Daniel and retrieve the stolen necklace, because a seriously injured woman is just what he needs to “help” him when he’s got to face a dangerous foe.
I lost patience with both Isabail and the book before that point and probably wouldn’t have finished it had I not been reviewing it. There are large chunks of the story where nothing really happens; because of the overarching plot, it doesn’t work as a standalone and the ending is rather anticlimactic. I wasn’t engaged by the writing, which was workmanlike, but nothing special, and don’t care enough about the characters to want to find out what happens next. Needless to say, I won’t be picking up the next book in the series. I have plenty of books I know I’ll enjoy on my TBR pile to want to waste time on another uninspiring effort.
September 26, 2020
Candlelight Historische roman 1178 .
Om te beginnen wil ik adviseren om deel 1 in deze serie eerst te lezen .
In dit deel volgen we Aiden MacCurran die samen met zijn clan uit zijn voorouderlijk kasteel is gezet omdat hij wordt beschuldigt van moord en diefstal . Om zijn onschuld te bewijzen moet hij Isabail Grant ontvoeren om haar uit te kunnen horen over welke gasten er nog meer aanwezig waren op de dag van de moord en diefstal . Deze verhaallijn is gestart in boek 1 en wordt gedeeltelijk opgelost in dit deel , dus deel 3 lezen is noodzakelijk , helaas is dit deel uitgekomen nadat de uitgeverij besloten had om te stoppen met uitgifte van C.H.r .
Om te beginnen wil ik adviseren om deel 1 in deze serie eerst te lezen .
In dit deel volgen we Aiden MacCurran die samen met zijn clan uit zijn voorouderlijk kasteel is gezet omdat hij wordt beschuldigt van moord en diefstal . Om zijn onschuld te bewijzen moet hij Isabail Grant ontvoeren om haar uit te kunnen horen over welke gasten er nog meer aanwezig waren op de dag van de moord en diefstal . Deze verhaallijn is gestart in boek 1 en wordt gedeeltelijk opgelost in dit deel , dus deel 3 lezen is noodzakelijk , helaas is dit deel uitgekomen nadat de uitgeverij besloten had om te stoppen met uitgifte van C.H.r .
October 11, 2016
Boring, boring, boring. The characters are boring, the plots are boring. I don't know what else to say. I will shut up now.
October 25, 2014
Also posted at TBRMountainRange.com with series links.
Once again we're immersed in Scottish Highlands history, enhanced by fun characters who are aided in their quest with a bit of magic. Enjoyable series!
Book two in the CLAIMED BY THE HIGHLANDER series continues where book one left off. WHEN A LAIRD TAKES A LADY reads fine as a standalone novel but reading or re-reading TAMING A WILD SCOT, first, will renew your excitement when reacquainted with familiar characters.
I'm not always crazy about fantasy or magic in historical fiction but in this time period, it mixes fairly well. I especially enjoy stories with healers in them and the fact that these characters are aided by a bit of the mystical enhances their abilities. Without it, the harsh realities of wounds and infection can be a gruesome and sad outcome, whereas the magic adds hope and light to the dangers of everyday survival, especially during the adversity of warring clans.
This book begins in the Eastern Highlands in January of 1286. Widowed Lady Isabail Grant is on her way to the king's court when three men attack her party and hold her and her maid captive. Lady Isabail assumes these warriors intend to ransom her to obtain the reward her cousin will surely pay for her safe return. When Isabail realizes that they are taking her to Dunstoras, home of the MacCurrans clan who are responsible for her brother's death, she's not so sure that she'll live through this experience and can't imagine what they want from her. The only option is to try to escape.
Wrongly accused of murder and theft, Aiden MacCurran is a man on a mission. He must find the proof that the man in black, whom he remembers standing next to Isabail's brother, is the one who is responsible for framing him, causing the loss of his lands. As laird, he is not just responsible for himself and his immediate family, but his entire clan who depend on him to clear his name and regain Dunstoras, their home, before it's too late.
Aiden is positive that Lady Isabail knows the man in black's identity and he will use whatever means to get the proof from her lips. Even if he has to seduce the lass into giving him answers. The question remains whether seduction will get him what he wants or something else entirely!
For those who read book one, Niall and Ana have key roles in Isabail and Aiden's story, as well as some other characters who continue the storyline. Niall is funny in his reaction to his brother dragging him off on another adventure. Their mother is an entertaining character, too. You'll also get some answers to the mystery launched in book one as well as feel teased enough to be hopeful for more resolutions in book three. And there's a dog! The author got to me with that one. I'm so sappy when there's a dog involved and Aiden's reactions to him are so cute.
Overall, I enjoy this author's style. She entertains me and I read her books quite quickly. Although the magical elements sometimes pull me out of an otherwise engaging story, I think that's more of a personal preference on my part. I haven't quite figured out why. Maybe I'm more of a historical purist than I thought I was?
I don't feel the romance as much as the adventure in these books but maybe it's because they remind me more of Robin Hood and his merry men, even more so in this book. Good adventure starring brave men who love to fight for what they feel belongs to them. We get a glimpse of the next couple and their obstacles so that teaser increases the anticipation for book three. Rowan Keats' storytelling skills always keep me captivated. They're just fun stories and I easily gobble them up. My attention was held solidly in the first half of the book. Then the story slowed down for me in some spots after the halfway mark but that doesn't calm my need for answers in book three, TO KISS A KILTED WARRIOR, due out in December 2014.
For those who love Highlander adventure with some mystical elements, Rowan Keats satisfies that craving with a deft hand.
Reviewed by Dorine, courtesy of Romance Junkies.
Once again we're immersed in Scottish Highlands history, enhanced by fun characters who are aided in their quest with a bit of magic. Enjoyable series!
Book two in the CLAIMED BY THE HIGHLANDER series continues where book one left off. WHEN A LAIRD TAKES A LADY reads fine as a standalone novel but reading or re-reading TAMING A WILD SCOT, first, will renew your excitement when reacquainted with familiar characters.
I'm not always crazy about fantasy or magic in historical fiction but in this time period, it mixes fairly well. I especially enjoy stories with healers in them and the fact that these characters are aided by a bit of the mystical enhances their abilities. Without it, the harsh realities of wounds and infection can be a gruesome and sad outcome, whereas the magic adds hope and light to the dangers of everyday survival, especially during the adversity of warring clans.
This book begins in the Eastern Highlands in January of 1286. Widowed Lady Isabail Grant is on her way to the king's court when three men attack her party and hold her and her maid captive. Lady Isabail assumes these warriors intend to ransom her to obtain the reward her cousin will surely pay for her safe return. When Isabail realizes that they are taking her to Dunstoras, home of the MacCurrans clan who are responsible for her brother's death, she's not so sure that she'll live through this experience and can't imagine what they want from her. The only option is to try to escape.
Wrongly accused of murder and theft, Aiden MacCurran is a man on a mission. He must find the proof that the man in black, whom he remembers standing next to Isabail's brother, is the one who is responsible for framing him, causing the loss of his lands. As laird, he is not just responsible for himself and his immediate family, but his entire clan who depend on him to clear his name and regain Dunstoras, their home, before it's too late.
Aiden is positive that Lady Isabail knows the man in black's identity and he will use whatever means to get the proof from her lips. Even if he has to seduce the lass into giving him answers. The question remains whether seduction will get him what he wants or something else entirely!
For those who read book one, Niall and Ana have key roles in Isabail and Aiden's story, as well as some other characters who continue the storyline. Niall is funny in his reaction to his brother dragging him off on another adventure. Their mother is an entertaining character, too. You'll also get some answers to the mystery launched in book one as well as feel teased enough to be hopeful for more resolutions in book three. And there's a dog! The author got to me with that one. I'm so sappy when there's a dog involved and Aiden's reactions to him are so cute.
Overall, I enjoy this author's style. She entertains me and I read her books quite quickly. Although the magical elements sometimes pull me out of an otherwise engaging story, I think that's more of a personal preference on my part. I haven't quite figured out why. Maybe I'm more of a historical purist than I thought I was?
I don't feel the romance as much as the adventure in these books but maybe it's because they remind me more of Robin Hood and his merry men, even more so in this book. Good adventure starring brave men who love to fight for what they feel belongs to them. We get a glimpse of the next couple and their obstacles so that teaser increases the anticipation for book three. Rowan Keats' storytelling skills always keep me captivated. They're just fun stories and I easily gobble them up. My attention was held solidly in the first half of the book. Then the story slowed down for me in some spots after the halfway mark but that doesn't calm my need for answers in book three, TO KISS A KILTED WARRIOR, due out in December 2014.
For those who love Highlander adventure with some mystical elements, Rowan Keats satisfies that craving with a deft hand.
Reviewed by Dorine, courtesy of Romance Junkies.
September 21, 2014
I had a penchant for a historical medieval romance and it was just a bonus that it was set in the Highlands of Scotland. I haven't read this author's work yet so I eagerly dived right in and got lost in the surprising story because I didn't realize that I was also getting a strong intrigue element along with a slight magical one on top of the period backdrop and romance. The story's tone isn't one that stayed put in that many of the events and situations should have made for a more serious, darker tone, but yet the way the main characters were drawn and the relationship between them was lighter with lots of passionate encounters.
This is the second story in a series. Yep, I did it again. I saw a story that sounded appealing and I snapped it up for a read before paying attention to see if it was part of a series. Luckily, I didn't have trouble. In fact, it looked like this story sort of paralleled the other one chronologically in ways. The characters from the first book are strong minor characters in this one and their story didn't seem to have reached its resolve yet. Just like the hero and heroine from the third book have a separate plot thread going along through this one showing their story also parallels the first and second one. All that to say that this can be read out of order without any wailing or gnashing of teeth.
The story opens when Isabail Grant's coach is attacked and her outriding defenders are killed or incapacitated by her family's greatest enemy, Aidan MacCurran. MacCurran stole the jeweled necklace meant to be a gift from the king to his future queen, was caught and her brother as judiciary sentenced him for it. Then someone helped him escape and he poisoned several people so that they died including her brother. He was deemed an outlaw and forfeited his lands with his clan scattered. His fiercesome face and huge warrior body terrify her, but he claims that he is innocent of all charges and wants to prove his innocence. He requires the names of the five strangers that came to her brother's keep that knight because he is looking for the mysterious man in black who is responsible for it all. There is no way that she believes any of this and will hold to silence while looking for a chance to escape.
Aidan is so angry at the injustices done to him and the misery meted out on his clan because of the decision of John Grant. He wants his innocence proven and restoration made, but most of all he wants to avenge himself on the shadowy man in black who caused it all. Grant's sister holds the clue to the man's identity, but she is not forthcoming. Indeed she is terrified of him and seeking her escape. He is the laird of his clan and personal considerations have to be set aside for his clan's welfare if that includes any means necessary to get Isabail talking then so be it. Now he just has to convince himself not to inwardly cringe every time she flinches or swoons out of fear of him.
The plot on this one had a tendency to swing between crystal clear to fuzzy vagary as the story unfolded. Some things stand out sharply while others that seemed important are allowed to be set aside with the story progression on without addressing them. Because of the intrigue element, I'm going to give the benefit of the doubt that much of this vaguery is on purpose. It was just an odd sensation as I was reading which is why I point it out.
The historical backdrop is interesting since its 13th Century Scotland. I loved it because it was both medieval and highlander. The way of life is depicted though this is only a minimal part of the story- just a piece of interest to a history lover like me.
The intrigue is political in nature as it involves the King and shifting in power and allegiances among the clans. There were several clues given, but it is obvious that this is meant to be the ongoing connecting story arc through the series. Each book offers further clues and advancements toward the final solution.
The characters are engaging and I liked them though they are only lightly sketched since this is more of an action-driven than character-driven plot. Aidan and Isabail are enemies, but only for as long as it takes her to see him with his people and even the way he is with her. She outwardly resists the truth, but it’s really no contest. She can see the evidence that he is not the black-hearted killer he was painted to be. So, for me, the added tension that an enemies to lovers romance wasn't really there and Isabail’s fence-riding did her no favors though fortunately it wasn’t enough to bring on more than mild boredom and irritation. There is really a lack of significant romantic development, but- now this may seem odd- I wasn’t really bothered by this. I liked it just the way it was between these two. I was actually relieved for a less complicated almost insta-love relationship. Isabail is a widow and no shy virgin so the passion had some heat to it between the two. Isabail might swoon at the sight of a scowl, but she still has some sass and backbone when it counts and Aidan might have a temper, but he is truly smitten by Isabail and he tries to court her in his own bumbling, rough way.
The other characters, Niall, Ana, Magnus, Jamie and even the deerhound, were favorites that I will be glad to read about when I go back for Niall and Ana's book and then read on to Magnus/Wulf and Morag's story. Even the villain was a surprise when I cottoned to the identity well before Isabail did. This person was only the open villain and I look forward to discovering who the one in the shadows is though I have my suspicions.
The hint of mysticism with Ana's healing arts and the druid's prophetic words was pretty cool too.
All in all, I had a good time with this one and I will gladly pick up more from this author particularly in this series. It wasn't deep or meticulous, but it hit the spot as a rousing good medieval Highland adventure and romance.
My thanks to Penguin Group for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second story in a series. Yep, I did it again. I saw a story that sounded appealing and I snapped it up for a read before paying attention to see if it was part of a series. Luckily, I didn't have trouble. In fact, it looked like this story sort of paralleled the other one chronologically in ways. The characters from the first book are strong minor characters in this one and their story didn't seem to have reached its resolve yet. Just like the hero and heroine from the third book have a separate plot thread going along through this one showing their story also parallels the first and second one. All that to say that this can be read out of order without any wailing or gnashing of teeth.
The story opens when Isabail Grant's coach is attacked and her outriding defenders are killed or incapacitated by her family's greatest enemy, Aidan MacCurran. MacCurran stole the jeweled necklace meant to be a gift from the king to his future queen, was caught and her brother as judiciary sentenced him for it. Then someone helped him escape and he poisoned several people so that they died including her brother. He was deemed an outlaw and forfeited his lands with his clan scattered. His fiercesome face and huge warrior body terrify her, but he claims that he is innocent of all charges and wants to prove his innocence. He requires the names of the five strangers that came to her brother's keep that knight because he is looking for the mysterious man in black who is responsible for it all. There is no way that she believes any of this and will hold to silence while looking for a chance to escape.
Aidan is so angry at the injustices done to him and the misery meted out on his clan because of the decision of John Grant. He wants his innocence proven and restoration made, but most of all he wants to avenge himself on the shadowy man in black who caused it all. Grant's sister holds the clue to the man's identity, but she is not forthcoming. Indeed she is terrified of him and seeking her escape. He is the laird of his clan and personal considerations have to be set aside for his clan's welfare if that includes any means necessary to get Isabail talking then so be it. Now he just has to convince himself not to inwardly cringe every time she flinches or swoons out of fear of him.
The plot on this one had a tendency to swing between crystal clear to fuzzy vagary as the story unfolded. Some things stand out sharply while others that seemed important are allowed to be set aside with the story progression on without addressing them. Because of the intrigue element, I'm going to give the benefit of the doubt that much of this vaguery is on purpose. It was just an odd sensation as I was reading which is why I point it out.
The historical backdrop is interesting since its 13th Century Scotland. I loved it because it was both medieval and highlander. The way of life is depicted though this is only a minimal part of the story- just a piece of interest to a history lover like me.
The intrigue is political in nature as it involves the King and shifting in power and allegiances among the clans. There were several clues given, but it is obvious that this is meant to be the ongoing connecting story arc through the series. Each book offers further clues and advancements toward the final solution.
The characters are engaging and I liked them though they are only lightly sketched since this is more of an action-driven than character-driven plot. Aidan and Isabail are enemies, but only for as long as it takes her to see him with his people and even the way he is with her. She outwardly resists the truth, but it’s really no contest. She can see the evidence that he is not the black-hearted killer he was painted to be. So, for me, the added tension that an enemies to lovers romance wasn't really there and Isabail’s fence-riding did her no favors though fortunately it wasn’t enough to bring on more than mild boredom and irritation. There is really a lack of significant romantic development, but- now this may seem odd- I wasn’t really bothered by this. I liked it just the way it was between these two. I was actually relieved for a less complicated almost insta-love relationship. Isabail is a widow and no shy virgin so the passion had some heat to it between the two. Isabail might swoon at the sight of a scowl, but she still has some sass and backbone when it counts and Aidan might have a temper, but he is truly smitten by Isabail and he tries to court her in his own bumbling, rough way.
The other characters, Niall, Ana, Magnus, Jamie and even the deerhound, were favorites that I will be glad to read about when I go back for Niall and Ana's book and then read on to Magnus/Wulf and Morag's story. Even the villain was a surprise when I cottoned to the identity well before Isabail did. This person was only the open villain and I look forward to discovering who the one in the shadows is though I have my suspicions.
The hint of mysticism with Ana's healing arts and the druid's prophetic words was pretty cool too.
All in all, I had a good time with this one and I will gladly pick up more from this author particularly in this series. It wasn't deep or meticulous, but it hit the spot as a rousing good medieval Highland adventure and romance.
My thanks to Penguin Group for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 14, 2014
Leaps and bounds better than the first one. However, I still felt like it suffered from pacing issues. Very slow moving and it felt like nothing was going on even though there is a swirling mess of "who dunnit?" afoot.
Aiden, the lead Laird and Isabail, the lead Lady, were good (not great) characters. Aiden had definite potential in the beginning and there were flashes of strong, caring, and dark/complexity, but his character suffered from a lack of actions. He growled a lot but even that couldn't save him as in the end he felt very thin.
Isabail tried to go from a very naive, having no idea what is really going on, to a woman ready to take on the world for her man. She didn't quite make it and ended up never shedding her naiveness and seemingly still a bit confused.
The mystery storyline started in the first book, who is the murderous necklace stealing man in black, is not resolved in this book. Will this keep me up at night wondering? No. Will I buy the next book in the series to find out who it was? Maybe. I am a sucker for historical Scottish books (there is a sad lack of new ones to come out lately) and like I said, I found this book to be better than the first, so eh, maybe the third time will be the charm.
Aiden, the lead Laird and Isabail, the lead Lady, were good (not great) characters. Aiden had definite potential in the beginning and there were flashes of strong, caring, and dark/complexity, but his character suffered from a lack of actions. He growled a lot but even that couldn't save him as in the end he felt very thin.
Isabail tried to go from a very naive, having no idea what is really going on, to a woman ready to take on the world for her man. She didn't quite make it and ended up never shedding her naiveness and seemingly still a bit confused.
The mystery storyline started in the first book, who is the murderous necklace stealing man in black, is not resolved in this book. Will this keep me up at night wondering? No. Will I buy the next book in the series to find out who it was? Maybe. I am a sucker for historical Scottish books (there is a sad lack of new ones to come out lately) and like I said, I found this book to be better than the first, so eh, maybe the third time will be the charm.
July 5, 2014
Originally Posted At My Blog Addicted To Romance
Isabail on route to see the King in order to make a plea to find justice for her brothers murderer, finds herself kidnapped and at the mercy of a outlaw, Aiden MacCurran. The man who is known as a traitor and the man who murdered her brother. Aiden, was framed and now he and the few people left from his clan alive are just trying to stay ahead of those that hunt them. Aiden needs the information that he knows Isabail is keeping from him and he will do anything to get those answers. Imprisoned and not knowing what is in her future, so doesn't want to trust Aiden. Even though Isabail is a prisoner, a slow and burning passion builds between herself and Aiden. A Desire so fierce that she starts to believe in a future together, with a man that has made her believe and trust again. Isabail and Aiden although enemies, find a more powerful love than anything they could have dreamed.
When A Laird Takes A Lady is the second book in the series, and it continues on right from where the last book leaves off. The three books are all connected to each other from what I gathered from reading this one and the previous book "Taming A Wild Scot". In When A Laird Takes A Lady we see Aiden's story. Aiden is the MacCurran clan's laird. Aiden feels responsible for his people, and has a week to get the answers he needs from Isabail so he can get his land back and have his people safe again. There is one thing he doesn't count on. the way that Isabail would turn his world topsy turvy in one day. I enjoyed the first book, but boy did I enjoy this one even more than the previous book. Rowan Keats knows how to write a good highlander romance. There was a feeling of passion and history involved in the story, and I loved the sweet romantic note to the story that just sings to you as your reading it. The characters in the story are moving and full of emotion. There is a way that this author weaves a story and with Aiden and Isabail at the helm, you see such a level of sensuality and a rich story line to keep you engaged until the very end.
Overall a stunning display of romance, history, and a story full of flavor and spice. GUARANTEED TO CAPTURE YOUR HEART!!
Isabail on route to see the King in order to make a plea to find justice for her brothers murderer, finds herself kidnapped and at the mercy of a outlaw, Aiden MacCurran. The man who is known as a traitor and the man who murdered her brother. Aiden, was framed and now he and the few people left from his clan alive are just trying to stay ahead of those that hunt them. Aiden needs the information that he knows Isabail is keeping from him and he will do anything to get those answers. Imprisoned and not knowing what is in her future, so doesn't want to trust Aiden. Even though Isabail is a prisoner, a slow and burning passion builds between herself and Aiden. A Desire so fierce that she starts to believe in a future together, with a man that has made her believe and trust again. Isabail and Aiden although enemies, find a more powerful love than anything they could have dreamed.
When A Laird Takes A Lady is the second book in the series, and it continues on right from where the last book leaves off. The three books are all connected to each other from what I gathered from reading this one and the previous book "Taming A Wild Scot". In When A Laird Takes A Lady we see Aiden's story. Aiden is the MacCurran clan's laird. Aiden feels responsible for his people, and has a week to get the answers he needs from Isabail so he can get his land back and have his people safe again. There is one thing he doesn't count on. the way that Isabail would turn his world topsy turvy in one day. I enjoyed the first book, but boy did I enjoy this one even more than the previous book. Rowan Keats knows how to write a good highlander romance. There was a feeling of passion and history involved in the story, and I loved the sweet romantic note to the story that just sings to you as your reading it. The characters in the story are moving and full of emotion. There is a way that this author weaves a story and with Aiden and Isabail at the helm, you see such a level of sensuality and a rich story line to keep you engaged until the very end.
Overall a stunning display of romance, history, and a story full of flavor and spice. GUARANTEED TO CAPTURE YOUR HEART!!
April 16, 2014
Alright, apparently my theme this time around is to read books from authors I have never even heard about. So far, I am having fun enjoying new things whilst discovering new authors; but one thing I would LOVE to know, is their a sequel to this book because seriously, Rowan Keats left me hanging.
Check out my blog for the rest of my review at:
http://swanangel15home.blogspot.com/2...
Check out my blog for the rest of my review at:
http://swanangel15home.blogspot.com/2...
June 25, 2014
She falls in bed with the villain awfully rapidly, which I was dubious of.
Although our two lovers reach their Happily Ever After, the book ending does not wrap the mystery up, leaving me feeling like I'm still hanging. This incentivizes the reader to read the next book, To Kiss a Kilted Warrior, which will be released in December 2014.
Check out my full review at Fresh FIction:
http://freshfiction.com/review.php?id...
Although our two lovers reach their Happily Ever After, the book ending does not wrap the mystery up, leaving me feeling like I'm still hanging. This incentivizes the reader to read the next book, To Kiss a Kilted Warrior, which will be released in December 2014.
Check out my full review at Fresh FIction:
http://freshfiction.com/review.php?id...
August 19, 2019
I rather enjoyed this book. the only thing that bothered me though, was that Isabail was "run through" with a sword. And a day later she went riding off to save another character. I don't think that is an injury that just goes away because the character (or writer) wants it to. She should have struggled with to get where she was going due to blood loss or pain or both. But none of that happened. Almost like it didn't happen.
Other than that the book was well written and enjoyable.
Other than that the book was well written and enjoyable.
September 1, 2026
This was a good second book in the series, I listed to the audiobook narrated by Kirsten Potter. I liked the first book in this series better. I didn't really feel the chemistry between the two main leads in this one. But it continued the story from the first book about the missing necklace and wanting to restore the clan's legacy and try to take back their castle. I'm looking forward to reading the other books in this series.
May 2, 2019
I recommend these books read in order and there is a bit of a cliffhanger the h & H's story is complete but the mystery that started in book 1 is not and there are 2 more books from the series. Fortunately the books are all offered in the audible romance package so I will finish this series because both books so far are pretty good.
July 22, 2026
I read these books when I was young and I liked them, but I don’t think I can anymore. In this one the MMC kidnaps the FMC then they are kissing two days later. She even has the thought “why am I okay with this?” Idk, you tell me because this makes no sense. In similar stories they at least have time to get to know each other. This one? Nope. It’s pretty stupid, if you ask me.
August 14, 2026
Enjoyable enough that I'll keep an eye out for other books by this author... But was this book part of a series? The magic was brought up so casually at least halfway or more through the book and not really explained or seen as a shock, it didn't really come up again either, and I'm wondering if I missed something or if I wasn't supposed to read this book first/as a standalone
July 20, 2018
Didn't like this one as much as the first book in the series. I had difficulty feeling the connection between the characters in both books, but the plot and setting kept me reading. I'm a sucker for historically accurate medievals and they will always draw me in because history!
August 10, 2018
Deception and greed seems to be the trait of that time.
It was very difficult to live than.... anyone could tarnish your name for their own gain without pause.
It was very difficult to live than.... anyone could tarnish your name for their own gain without pause.
March 20, 2017
Liked the first book in the series much better. The heroine of this story was hard to like.
March 29, 2014
Originally posted on my fabulous blog, FANGS, WANDS & FAIRY DUST on March 26, 2014: http://fangswandsandfairydust.com/201...
WHO DO YOU TRUST?
Disclosure: E-Galley provided by publisher via Net Galley for review purposes. No remuneration was exchanged and all opinions presented herein are my own except as noted.
This story grabbed me immediately with the paradox of how it is going to be possible to overcome the way this couple meets with the probability they will hook up. It’s a romance novel, so the way that’s going to go is in the book description, but still I was immediately hooked. I mean, it’s always possible it’s going to go another way, right?
Quick note under “Is a Title Important?” I heard the first measure of “When a Man Loves a Woman” the entire time I read this book. And I bring it up now because every time I see the cover it starts up again!
As the case against the MacCurran chief comes to light, it obviously has a ton of holes in it. Today, it wouldn’t stand up in court, but I have a good idea things were very different then. This story would have been under the rule of Alexander III whose second wife was Queen Yolande who is mentioned in the book. His first wife, Margaret of England, was the daughter of the English monarch Henry III who demanded homage. This is obliquely referenced in the story. Alexander III died in 1266, just a year after his marriage to Yolande while traveling in bad weather to visit her for her birthday. Just for the heck of it, here’s an illustration from the period depicting Alexander III’s coronation as King of the Scots ( read about it here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexande...).
That picture gives you a much better idea of the time period of the novel than the very romantic book cover. However, I felt the representation of life in a colder, draftier, and much more dangerous world than ours was well represented. Keats takes time to explain what a woman’s role in a castle would be and what could happen if that person slacked off. And she does this with perfectly accessible, non-accented language, sometimes the Gaelic names are a mystery of pronunciation but I just imagine how they would be pronounced.
There are a few mystical elements to the story. Some of the healers have magical powers that are cool, and very useful in a place where a simple cut could fester and kill you.
The story’s timeline fits into the days and nights allotted to it but it feels like it should be accounted for as a longer period of time. That feeling probably arises due to the speed with which the relationship develops. There’s good foreshadowing: enough to give me an inkling of what would be happening, but not so much that I would think the characters stupid for not seeing it. A lot of this story has to do with trusting the wrong person and being betrayed. Big time. It does answer some of the questions in the story, but I assume the story will continue as loose ends remain and it will affect the relationship between these two characters. And it does bring up the question of how Isabail and Aiden would know who they could trust; and how they could come to trust each other. That brings me back to the initial paradox that grabbed my attention.
I will definitely try to read the follow up; hoping for an answer to the mystery! I recommend this as a good romance with mystical elements and reasonable historic veracity while maintaining its relatability.
May 20, 2014
When a Laird Takes a Lady is the second book in the Claimed by a Highlander series written by Rowan Keats. This is a novel based on the ideas of honor, loyalty and trust, which are themes common in Scottish romance novels. Keats writes the highland people with respect to their way of life and understanding of the essential values that governed them. Romance readers and Scottish enthusiasts alike will find this book irresistible. Keats has a way with dialogue and originality that keeps her books realistic and true to the highland spirit.
What I liked:
I am of Scottish descent as many of you who read my blog often, know. I have read many books about the Highlands and the people who live there. I have stories of my own from my grandfather as well, that influence how I review any book set in Scotland. I have some pretty high standards when it comes to Scottish romance and not too many authors live up to them. Rowan Keats has got my interest peaked with this series. It is of course set in the highlands and Keats has done her homework as far as customs of the day, traditional dress and that sort of thing, but she has also written books that speak to the spirit of the highlander. Her characters embody the virtues and the flaws of the highland people, which is so much harder to capture than whether highlanders used the word know or kin.
In When a Laird Takes a Lady you have a typical Scottish romance theme, laird kidnaps a lady and falls in love, but it's so much more than that. I get tired of reading the same old stereo-typical Scottish characters and Keats gives readers something new fresh and new in Isabail Grant. Most highland ladies are written as with more heart than intelligence and most of them have been married off to men who are twice their age for clan conquest and not love. Isabail is neither of those things. She is a smart, stubborn woman with a lot of resilience and a heart of iron. She loved her husband and still mourns his death. I liked her instantly. She stood toe to toe with her abductor and came up with a pretty good plan of escape. Luckily, that wasn't in the cards!
Aiden was a warrior through and through. He had a small clan that he was trying to restore to it's former glory. He fought hard to prove that he was innocent of Isabail's brother's murder and needed her cooperation. When she finally realized that he was an honorable man and that he was not going to do her any harm, her attitudes toward him started to change. I liked his strength and his determination, his raw power and charisma. He didn't threaten her safety but he certainly laid to waste the guard she had on her heart. I liked them as a couple, because it was almost as if they were made for each other. They had their struggles and the mystery surrounding Isabail's brothers murder tried the patience of them both, but Keats eventually works it all out in the end much to the satisfaction of the reader.
What I didn't like:
This book relied heavily on the ideas of honor and trust, yet Isabail was willing to become Aiden's lover before she became completely convinced of his innocence. I found that detail a little hard to swallow because we weren't talking about something little, this was the murder of her brother. I'm pretty sure he would have had to prove to her without a doubt that he did not do it, before she would even remotely consider the idea of being with him.
Bottom Line:
For the most part I think Keats writes a Scottish romance with more originality than most. I think she understands the highland heart and what it needs better than some authors, but there were still a couple of things lacking with this novel. That's not to say that I don't recommend it. I definitely do, especially to Scottish romance fans. Like I said... I'm a bit picky!
What I liked:
I am of Scottish descent as many of you who read my blog often, know. I have read many books about the Highlands and the people who live there. I have stories of my own from my grandfather as well, that influence how I review any book set in Scotland. I have some pretty high standards when it comes to Scottish romance and not too many authors live up to them. Rowan Keats has got my interest peaked with this series. It is of course set in the highlands and Keats has done her homework as far as customs of the day, traditional dress and that sort of thing, but she has also written books that speak to the spirit of the highlander. Her characters embody the virtues and the flaws of the highland people, which is so much harder to capture than whether highlanders used the word know or kin.
In When a Laird Takes a Lady you have a typical Scottish romance theme, laird kidnaps a lady and falls in love, but it's so much more than that. I get tired of reading the same old stereo-typical Scottish characters and Keats gives readers something new fresh and new in Isabail Grant. Most highland ladies are written as with more heart than intelligence and most of them have been married off to men who are twice their age for clan conquest and not love. Isabail is neither of those things. She is a smart, stubborn woman with a lot of resilience and a heart of iron. She loved her husband and still mourns his death. I liked her instantly. She stood toe to toe with her abductor and came up with a pretty good plan of escape. Luckily, that wasn't in the cards!
Aiden was a warrior through and through. He had a small clan that he was trying to restore to it's former glory. He fought hard to prove that he was innocent of Isabail's brother's murder and needed her cooperation. When she finally realized that he was an honorable man and that he was not going to do her any harm, her attitudes toward him started to change. I liked his strength and his determination, his raw power and charisma. He didn't threaten her safety but he certainly laid to waste the guard she had on her heart. I liked them as a couple, because it was almost as if they were made for each other. They had their struggles and the mystery surrounding Isabail's brothers murder tried the patience of them both, but Keats eventually works it all out in the end much to the satisfaction of the reader.
What I didn't like:
This book relied heavily on the ideas of honor and trust, yet Isabail was willing to become Aiden's lover before she became completely convinced of his innocence. I found that detail a little hard to swallow because we weren't talking about something little, this was the murder of her brother. I'm pretty sure he would have had to prove to her without a doubt that he did not do it, before she would even remotely consider the idea of being with him.
Bottom Line:
For the most part I think Keats writes a Scottish romance with more originality than most. I think she understands the highland heart and what it needs better than some authors, but there were still a couple of things lacking with this novel. That's not to say that I don't recommend it. I definitely do, especially to Scottish romance fans. Like I said... I'm a bit picky!
June 26, 2014
Title: When a Laird Takes a Lady
Series: Claimed By the Highlander bk 2
Author: Rowan Keats
Genre: Historical Romance
Blurb:
In the Highlands of Scotland, honor and loyalty are worth more than life itself. But when a haunted woman meets a wronged warrior, love will prove more powerful than anything they have ever known.
Isabail Grant has had to be strong all her life. Over the years, she has lost everyone close to her, and now she’s seeking justice for her brother’s murder. But en route to Edinburgh to petition the king, she is kidnapped by a fierce warrior—and is shocked to find herself irresistibly drawn to her captor.
Aiden MacCurran is an outlaw. The laird of a small clan, he’s been falsely accused of killing the king’s courier and stealing the Crown’s property—and the key to clearing his name and redeeming his clan lies in Isabail’s memories. But Aiden and Isabail must first weather deceit and treachery before they can find the truth and claim the love that’s growing between them.
Alright, apparently my theme this time around is to read books from authors I have never even heard about. So far, I am having fun enjoying new things whilst discovering new authors; but one thing I would LOVE to know, is their a sequel to this book because seriously, Rowan Keats left me hanging.
Isabail Grant was abducted from her entourage, when she was on her way to the King, with her lady maid. They were taken into the mountains to either await to be ransomed or raped and killed. After a failed attempt of escaping almost got them killed, when the leader of her kidnappers arrived to take her back, Isabail is more inclined to follow him than die. She already lost everything, she did not want to also lose her life.
Aiden MacCurran must find evidence of the innocence of his clan or lose his land and forever be outcasts. Falsely accused of a crime he did not commit, Aiden must find answers to what he seeks and he can get it from none other than Miss Isabail Grant's memory, but she was not co-operative.
With bad blood between the both of them and the lies that were told, they do not trust each other. But when they both witnessed how the both of them act, can they distinguish between the lies that were told or the truth that they can see with their own eyes.
When someone unexpected entered the camp, are they friend or are they foe. I will tell you this much, they did not sit right with me from day one, but that is just my assumption. Now time is running out before Aiden's land is given to a new laird and the growing attraction between the two was not helping matters much.
Can they find out who is really telling the truth and who is lying before it's to late? Read to find out.
I thought that I was not going to enjoy this book. It started out really strong, with the ending of a battle and people dead. Then the burning of her clothes right in front of Isabail, she had a right to be terrified of them.
Rowan Keats wrote a marvelous story that had me frustrated at the end. I won't say why I was frustrated, you have to get the frustration yourself and I cannot wait for more work from her. The story was engaging and had me wanting to know what's going to happen next. I especially want to know what happens between Wulf and his lady, lol.
Thoughts: This book ended a little to abruptly for me
Grade: B
Review by: Nathifa
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
Series: Claimed By the Highlander bk 2
Author: Rowan Keats
Genre: Historical Romance
Blurb:
In the Highlands of Scotland, honor and loyalty are worth more than life itself. But when a haunted woman meets a wronged warrior, love will prove more powerful than anything they have ever known.
Isabail Grant has had to be strong all her life. Over the years, she has lost everyone close to her, and now she’s seeking justice for her brother’s murder. But en route to Edinburgh to petition the king, she is kidnapped by a fierce warrior—and is shocked to find herself irresistibly drawn to her captor.
Aiden MacCurran is an outlaw. The laird of a small clan, he’s been falsely accused of killing the king’s courier and stealing the Crown’s property—and the key to clearing his name and redeeming his clan lies in Isabail’s memories. But Aiden and Isabail must first weather deceit and treachery before they can find the truth and claim the love that’s growing between them.
Alright, apparently my theme this time around is to read books from authors I have never even heard about. So far, I am having fun enjoying new things whilst discovering new authors; but one thing I would LOVE to know, is their a sequel to this book because seriously, Rowan Keats left me hanging.
Isabail Grant was abducted from her entourage, when she was on her way to the King, with her lady maid. They were taken into the mountains to either await to be ransomed or raped and killed. After a failed attempt of escaping almost got them killed, when the leader of her kidnappers arrived to take her back, Isabail is more inclined to follow him than die. She already lost everything, she did not want to also lose her life.
Aiden MacCurran must find evidence of the innocence of his clan or lose his land and forever be outcasts. Falsely accused of a crime he did not commit, Aiden must find answers to what he seeks and he can get it from none other than Miss Isabail Grant's memory, but she was not co-operative.
With bad blood between the both of them and the lies that were told, they do not trust each other. But when they both witnessed how the both of them act, can they distinguish between the lies that were told or the truth that they can see with their own eyes.
When someone unexpected entered the camp, are they friend or are they foe. I will tell you this much, they did not sit right with me from day one, but that is just my assumption. Now time is running out before Aiden's land is given to a new laird and the growing attraction between the two was not helping matters much.
Can they find out who is really telling the truth and who is lying before it's to late? Read to find out.
I thought that I was not going to enjoy this book. It started out really strong, with the ending of a battle and people dead. Then the burning of her clothes right in front of Isabail, she had a right to be terrified of them.
Rowan Keats wrote a marvelous story that had me frustrated at the end. I won't say why I was frustrated, you have to get the frustration yourself and I cannot wait for more work from her. The story was engaging and had me wanting to know what's going to happen next. I especially want to know what happens between Wulf and his lady, lol.
Thoughts: This book ended a little to abruptly for me
Grade: B
Review by: Nathifa
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
September 27, 2014
Recently, I've become obsessed with the show Outlander and all I want to do is read books about highlanders. There's just something about a strong man in a kilt that just gets to me…so I knew it was about time I picked up my copy of this book from my shelf.
Isabail Grant has lost those closest to her throughout the past couple of years and she'll to anything to seek justice over her brother's murder. On her way to Edinburgh to petition the king, though, she's kidnapped by a fierce highlander who is wanted for her brother's murder. Aiden MacCurren has been marked an outlaw after being framed for the murder of the king's courier and he'll stop at nothing to clear his name, which means capturing the only person who may know the identity of the man who actually committed the murder. Isabail isn't as willing to trust the man who she's learned to hate, but she can't deny the slow-burning attraction she has for the big and strong, yet surprisingly gentle man. Aiden and Isabail have to work together to find the truth over who really committed the murders, which leads to an attraction that's becoming harder and harder to resist.
I love romances where the main couple are enemies that end up getting to know each other and fall for the person they discover beneath the rumors and lies. Aiden is so scary and intimidating in the beginning that Isabail is physically terrified of him before she gets to know him. I loved how she had to get to know him and see his gentler side before she finally realizes that she's attracted to the fierce warrior. I think their romance did come a bit out of no where in regards to how Aiden acted around Isabail, but I still enjoyed how they both tried to fight their attraction since they were supposed to be enemies. Isabail sure was a feisty one when she was Aiden's prisoner and I loved how she wouldn't let him boss her around when she was living with his clan. Isiabail was very headstrong and was determined to either get answers or attempt to escape so that she could return to where she really belongs. She soon learned, though, that home may not be where she really belonged after all...
While the romances is always my favorite part of novels, I loved the mystery behind who really committed the murder that Aiden was accused of. There were so many secrets revolving around who Isabail could trust and what Aiden was hiding within his clan. There were a lot of action-filled moments where you didn't know who would live and who wouldn't. Oh my gosh, and there's an adorable dog that becomes attached to Aiden and it's absolutely adorable. The other characters were great, too, and I especially liked Anna and how she had to work to earn the trust of others just like Aiden had to do with Isabail. No relationships are easy in this book and they really have to try hard in order to make them work.
Overall, When a Laird Takes a Lady is an engaging highland romance that has plenty of action and an attraction that is impossible to deny. Isabail and Aiden have a very complicated relationship and the secrets and scandal that revolve around both of their lives make it difficult for either of them to trust one another, despite their intense attraction for one another. If you want a romance full of outlawed highlanders and a bitter hatred that turns into a passionate romance, you should check out When a Laird Takes a Lady.
Isabail Grant has lost those closest to her throughout the past couple of years and she'll to anything to seek justice over her brother's murder. On her way to Edinburgh to petition the king, though, she's kidnapped by a fierce highlander who is wanted for her brother's murder. Aiden MacCurren has been marked an outlaw after being framed for the murder of the king's courier and he'll stop at nothing to clear his name, which means capturing the only person who may know the identity of the man who actually committed the murder. Isabail isn't as willing to trust the man who she's learned to hate, but she can't deny the slow-burning attraction she has for the big and strong, yet surprisingly gentle man. Aiden and Isabail have to work together to find the truth over who really committed the murders, which leads to an attraction that's becoming harder and harder to resist.
I love romances where the main couple are enemies that end up getting to know each other and fall for the person they discover beneath the rumors and lies. Aiden is so scary and intimidating in the beginning that Isabail is physically terrified of him before she gets to know him. I loved how she had to get to know him and see his gentler side before she finally realizes that she's attracted to the fierce warrior. I think their romance did come a bit out of no where in regards to how Aiden acted around Isabail, but I still enjoyed how they both tried to fight their attraction since they were supposed to be enemies. Isabail sure was a feisty one when she was Aiden's prisoner and I loved how she wouldn't let him boss her around when she was living with his clan. Isiabail was very headstrong and was determined to either get answers or attempt to escape so that she could return to where she really belongs. She soon learned, though, that home may not be where she really belonged after all...
While the romances is always my favorite part of novels, I loved the mystery behind who really committed the murder that Aiden was accused of. There were so many secrets revolving around who Isabail could trust and what Aiden was hiding within his clan. There were a lot of action-filled moments where you didn't know who would live and who wouldn't. Oh my gosh, and there's an adorable dog that becomes attached to Aiden and it's absolutely adorable. The other characters were great, too, and I especially liked Anna and how she had to work to earn the trust of others just like Aiden had to do with Isabail. No relationships are easy in this book and they really have to try hard in order to make them work.
Overall, When a Laird Takes a Lady is an engaging highland romance that has plenty of action and an attraction that is impossible to deny. Isabail and Aiden have a very complicated relationship and the secrets and scandal that revolve around both of their lives make it difficult for either of them to trust one another, despite their intense attraction for one another. If you want a romance full of outlawed highlanders and a bitter hatred that turns into a passionate romance, you should check out When a Laird Takes a Lady.
June 2, 2014
When a Laird Takes a Lady, Claimed by the Highlander #2, by Rowan Keats
Grade: C-
“I would dispute who is the prisoner,” he responded quietly. “I have but to look into your eyes and I am captured.”
Isabail Grant is the key to Aiden McCurran clearing his name and getting his land back for his outlawed clan. After being falsely accused of stealing a present meant for the king’s fiance, Aiden and the rest of the McCurran clan is outlawed with Aiden jailed. With help from his brother, Aiden is able to escape and knows that the key to finding the true thief lies in the memories of Lady Isabail Grant. Taking Isabail prisoner is easy but resisting the intriguing woman is more than Aiden can bare and he soon finds himself in love with a woman who holds both his and his clan’s fate.
Isabail Grant has suffered through many losses including her family but being taken prisoner by the McCurran clan is a new low. Isabail may be frightened but she is also drawn to Aiden and the more time she spends with him the more she starts to believe his innocence. With a clan’s future in her hands, Isabail must find the facts she needs to make her decision and hopefully win her freedom without losing the man she has grown to love.
I love a good highlander book and was very intrigued with this book in the beginning. I found the story to be very interesting and both Isabail and Aiden to be very strong but at the same time fun characters to read about. Isabail is a lady of her time but also has a backbone and sticks up for what she believes is right. i loved that she did everything she could to try to escape Aiden and never accepted defeat. Isabail kept me reading when I felt the story fell apart and without her I would not have finished this book.
I really liked Aiden but for some reason I didn’t really connect to his character. I found him annoying at times and his mood swings were all over the place. I didn’t read the first book in this series and I really wish I had. I felt that I missed a lot of the McCurran clan’s backstory and a lot of what drove Aiden to do what he did in regards to Isabail. My biggest problem was how he treat Isabail. One second he was entranced by her and the next he wanted nothing to do with her. I found this back and forth to be very irritating and made me not what to continue reading.
About halfway through this book I felt the story fell apart and things got very boring. As I mentioned before I kept reading because I really liked Isabail but she is not enough for me to keep reading the series. The ending of this book also bothered me because there is a conclusion but not for everything that is occurring. Sadly this book did not work for me at all.
Grade: C-
“I would dispute who is the prisoner,” he responded quietly. “I have but to look into your eyes and I am captured.”
Isabail Grant is the key to Aiden McCurran clearing his name and getting his land back for his outlawed clan. After being falsely accused of stealing a present meant for the king’s fiance, Aiden and the rest of the McCurran clan is outlawed with Aiden jailed. With help from his brother, Aiden is able to escape and knows that the key to finding the true thief lies in the memories of Lady Isabail Grant. Taking Isabail prisoner is easy but resisting the intriguing woman is more than Aiden can bare and he soon finds himself in love with a woman who holds both his and his clan’s fate.
Isabail Grant has suffered through many losses including her family but being taken prisoner by the McCurran clan is a new low. Isabail may be frightened but she is also drawn to Aiden and the more time she spends with him the more she starts to believe his innocence. With a clan’s future in her hands, Isabail must find the facts she needs to make her decision and hopefully win her freedom without losing the man she has grown to love.
I love a good highlander book and was very intrigued with this book in the beginning. I found the story to be very interesting and both Isabail and Aiden to be very strong but at the same time fun characters to read about. Isabail is a lady of her time but also has a backbone and sticks up for what she believes is right. i loved that she did everything she could to try to escape Aiden and never accepted defeat. Isabail kept me reading when I felt the story fell apart and without her I would not have finished this book.
I really liked Aiden but for some reason I didn’t really connect to his character. I found him annoying at times and his mood swings were all over the place. I didn’t read the first book in this series and I really wish I had. I felt that I missed a lot of the McCurran clan’s backstory and a lot of what drove Aiden to do what he did in regards to Isabail. My biggest problem was how he treat Isabail. One second he was entranced by her and the next he wanted nothing to do with her. I found this back and forth to be very irritating and made me not what to continue reading.
About halfway through this book I felt the story fell apart and things got very boring. As I mentioned before I kept reading because I really liked Isabail but she is not enough for me to keep reading the series. The ending of this book also bothered me because there is a conclusion but not for everything that is occurring. Sadly this book did not work for me at all.
May 7, 2014
Originally posted on Adria's Romance Reviews
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
It’s been a long time since I read a Scottish romance novel, let alone a good one like When a Laird Takes a Lady. It was a long time coming but I’m glad that at the last minute I asked to review this book. I missed the previous book and I didn’t want to pass up the chance to check out new to me author Rowan Keats.
Even though it’s a historical romance, it leans heavily on the themes of honor and loyalty and I really enjoyed that because it gave more depth to the overall story and gave the lead characters a bigger obstacle to overcome.
Falsely accused of murder and theft, Aiden MacCurran is determined to clear his name and the reputation of his clan. The only way he feels he can do this is by kidnapping Isabail Grant. Her memories are the key to Aiden and his clan’s salvation. Unfortunately for him, Isabail isn’t easily manipulated or forced to do anything she doesn’t want and the two butt heads continuously.
Both Aiden and Isabail believe in doing what’s right, though after they meet it starts to become clear that neither one of them has all the facts to back up their claims. They start off butting heads and disliking each other but as the story unfolds, they develop an uneasy truce/friendship that holds an intense attraction. Both characters are kind but stubborn and it was interesting to watch them learn to compromise and learn to trust one another.
I liked the plot, it was interesting and strong enough to support a believable mystery and romance. I didn’t get lost and am grateful that author Rowan Keats didn’t decide to give Aiden a thick Scottish brogue as I’m sorely out of practice in reading it. Along with the romance, there was plenty of action and battle scenes that were described so well that I felt like I was watching a movie in my mind, yet they didn’t drag on and on into boredom.
Final Verdict: When a Laird Takes a Lady should be read by historical romance fans and especially Scottish Romance fans who like a big strong Scotsman who is loyal, loving and honorable and a lovely lady who has her own ideas about justice and honor.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
It’s been a long time since I read a Scottish romance novel, let alone a good one like When a Laird Takes a Lady. It was a long time coming but I’m glad that at the last minute I asked to review this book. I missed the previous book and I didn’t want to pass up the chance to check out new to me author Rowan Keats.
Even though it’s a historical romance, it leans heavily on the themes of honor and loyalty and I really enjoyed that because it gave more depth to the overall story and gave the lead characters a bigger obstacle to overcome.
Falsely accused of murder and theft, Aiden MacCurran is determined to clear his name and the reputation of his clan. The only way he feels he can do this is by kidnapping Isabail Grant. Her memories are the key to Aiden and his clan’s salvation. Unfortunately for him, Isabail isn’t easily manipulated or forced to do anything she doesn’t want and the two butt heads continuously.
Both Aiden and Isabail believe in doing what’s right, though after they meet it starts to become clear that neither one of them has all the facts to back up their claims. They start off butting heads and disliking each other but as the story unfolds, they develop an uneasy truce/friendship that holds an intense attraction. Both characters are kind but stubborn and it was interesting to watch them learn to compromise and learn to trust one another.
I liked the plot, it was interesting and strong enough to support a believable mystery and romance. I didn’t get lost and am grateful that author Rowan Keats didn’t decide to give Aiden a thick Scottish brogue as I’m sorely out of practice in reading it. Along with the romance, there was plenty of action and battle scenes that were described so well that I felt like I was watching a movie in my mind, yet they didn’t drag on and on into boredom.
Final Verdict: When a Laird Takes a Lady should be read by historical romance fans and especially Scottish Romance fans who like a big strong Scotsman who is loyal, loving and honorable and a lovely lady who has her own ideas about justice and honor.
August 3, 2014
3.75 Stars!!!!
What's not to like? Aiden, a strong, handsome, tough, Laird who is wrongly accused kidnaps Isabell, the sister of the man he is accused of killing. She is blond, beautiful, widow and she may be the key to proving his innocence. She knows the names of several "men dressed in black" were the night her brother died. And Aiden will trade her freedom for those names. But Isabell will not tell him and save the man who killed her brother. As the story moves along, she lives among the poverty of his people as they live the life of outcasts and starts to sway to his side of thinking. She also starts to have feelings for him. This book has lots of intrigue, a developed storyline, lots of good characters and sub plots. In fact the characters from book 1 in this series played a part in the story as well as those from book 3. The only area where it could have been a bit better was the pacing. There were times where the tension lessened and I found myself skimming. Not bad...Oh, and note that the entire mystery started in book 1 is not entirely resolved....you have to keep reading this series. I will read more of this series if nothing but to find out how it all ends.
What's not to like? Aiden, a strong, handsome, tough, Laird who is wrongly accused kidnaps Isabell, the sister of the man he is accused of killing. She is blond, beautiful, widow and she may be the key to proving his innocence. She knows the names of several "men dressed in black" were the night her brother died. And Aiden will trade her freedom for those names. But Isabell will not tell him and save the man who killed her brother. As the story moves along, she lives among the poverty of his people as they live the life of outcasts and starts to sway to his side of thinking. She also starts to have feelings for him. This book has lots of intrigue, a developed storyline, lots of good characters and sub plots. In fact the characters from book 1 in this series played a part in the story as well as those from book 3. The only area where it could have been a bit better was the pacing. There were times where the tension lessened and I found myself skimming. Not bad...Oh, and note that the entire mystery started in book 1 is not entirely resolved....you have to keep reading this series. I will read more of this series if nothing but to find out how it all ends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 31, 2014
When a Laird takes a Lady was a Great Highlander Historical read.
It follows Strong willed Isabail Grant , who is looking for vengance against the person responsable for her Brothers death. When she is kidnapped by Aiden MacCurran, a Fierce warrior Accused of stealing precious jewlery and killing the kings Courier.The only way to clear his name is to find out who that person is and Isabail is the one who has to remember that night.
I enjoyed the Story , at times aiden was a Rogue to the core , but Isabail is a feiry force who hides her feelings well. At times in the book, like when they got to Aiden's land and Isabail wanted her clothing satchels so she could change, only to find they were given out to the woman of his clan. I myself would have Thrown a fit of Rage and Cried on the spot , but she pushed on even though it hurt , and worn the same clothes over , and over again.
Rowan Keats writes Beautifully and i cannot wait to read more books from this series and hopefully many more .
It follows Strong willed Isabail Grant , who is looking for vengance against the person responsable for her Brothers death. When she is kidnapped by Aiden MacCurran, a Fierce warrior Accused of stealing precious jewlery and killing the kings Courier.The only way to clear his name is to find out who that person is and Isabail is the one who has to remember that night.
I enjoyed the Story , at times aiden was a Rogue to the core , but Isabail is a feiry force who hides her feelings well. At times in the book, like when they got to Aiden's land and Isabail wanted her clothing satchels so she could change, only to find they were given out to the woman of his clan. I myself would have Thrown a fit of Rage and Cried on the spot , but she pushed on even though it hurt , and worn the same clothes over , and over again.
Rowan Keats writes Beautifully and i cannot wait to read more books from this series and hopefully many more .
August 13, 2014
Though I read this book prior to reading book one, I loved this book. Who wouldn't want to be kidnapped by a tall handsome warrior, held captive yet not violated, at least not until you were willing. Ms. Keats paints a vivid picture of the time era, her scenes come to life and the characters are well developed. The struggle Isabail goes through, having lost a brother and believing Aiden is responsible for that death is believable. Living now among him and his people, seeing how he fiercely protects them, the gentleness in which he handles her is in direct conflict with the man she thought cold heartedly murdered her brother just to steal a necklace. Aiden is what every woman dreams of, strong, fierce, protective, loyal and yet gentle, with a heart a woman would be proud to hold in her hands. There is romance, intrigue, deception and delicious sex. I plan now to go back and read book one while anticipating the third book's release. Well done!
May 16, 2014
The story continues when Aiden MacCurran kidnaps Isabail Grant in order for her to give him the names of all that were there the night his life changed. Of course she is the sister of John Grant, the man who accused him of stealing the Queen's necklace. He wants answers before his land and his clan's home is given to someone else. Isabail doesn't cooperate at first but she ends up confused for her feelings for her kidnaper. Ana and Niall are involved in this story as well and play a part in Isabail's story.
The love came quick and the immediate problem solved but the mystery isn't over yet. Good storytelling and look forward to the next one.
The love came quick and the immediate problem solved but the mystery isn't over yet. Good storytelling and look forward to the next one.
September 22, 2014
I won this book in a giveaway and though it's not required I felt I should give back in a way.
This book was great in the sense of action and romance! The love story of Aiden and Isabail is quiet eventful with the charges against Aiden and Isabail's grief over the loss of her brother. With the circumstance of events I felt the mood in some parts of the book should have been a little more serious than they were. I felt the parts with Morag and Magnus/Wulf were more random than important until the moment he aids Isabail, it could have been more tied together. As a result I gave this book 3 out of 5 stars.
This book was great in the sense of action and romance! The love story of Aiden and Isabail is quiet eventful with the charges against Aiden and Isabail's grief over the loss of her brother. With the circumstance of events I felt the mood in some parts of the book should have been a little more serious than they were. I felt the parts with Morag and Magnus/Wulf were more random than important until the moment he aids Isabail, it could have been more tied together. As a result I gave this book 3 out of 5 stars.
January 21, 2015
This second novel in the series deals with the disposed Laird searching for the Man in Black, the man who killed the Kings messenger and stole the ruby necklace. Lady Isabelle believes Aden is the man who killed her brother so when he kidnaps her to force her to tell what she knows about the Man in BLack, she is confused. They journey to his home land but upon arrival her brother's lover, Daniel, is found to have followed them. He is obsessed with the ruby necklace he believes Aden and his family stole. Lots of mystery and romance ensue.
May 5, 2015
This book has an interesting plot with a few twists, action, a believable mystery (not resolved), and a good cast of characters. It took me a while to connect with the heroine. Her chemistry with the hero lacked the tension and excitement I like in romance novels. The chapters told from the point-of-view of minor characters were well written but slowed the pace. That said, I did enjoy the story.
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