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Highland Brides #1
Amber Flame
All around the border, battle was a way of life as both Englishmen and Scots rode off across the moors to do as their fathers had done and their fathers before them. So when Storm Eldon was kidnapped by her families ancestral enemies, she knew there were rules to be honored by both sides. If her stepmother agreed to the ransom demanded, Storm would not be harmed by Tavis MacLagan, the handsome highland warrior who held her captive. But as days of waiting turned into weeks, it began to be clear that in this contest of wills, no one was fighting fair. Tavis' hands-off policy had changed into an all out siege of the senses, and Storm realized she was less interested in guarding her virtue than becoming...His Bonnie Bride.
363 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 1, 1988
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1695 people want to read
About the author
Hannah Howell
116 books2,644 followersHannah Dustin Howell is a best-selling American author of over 40 historical romance novels. Many of her novels are set in medieval Scotland. She also writes under the names Sarah Dustin, Sandra Dustin, and Anna Jennet (see below).
She has also used the following pseudonyms:
Anna Jennet, Sarah Dustin and Sandra Dustin
She has also used the following pseudonyms:
Anna Jennet, Sarah Dustin and Sandra Dustin
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
January 29, 2013
Ten-year-old Storm is taken hostage by her English family's enemies on the Scottish side of the border. The Macwhatevers are headed by Colin and his eldest son Tavis. Storm's a little hellion, but also a healer and she saves Colin's arm with her special salve before the ransom is paid. Tavis thinks she's kinda hot for a little kid. Give 'er six years or so, and he'll "visit" her again.
FF six years or so, and you got it, Tavis is skulking around the Eldon properties. He gets a point for saving Storm from a rapey suitor who's trying to marry her dowry, but he loses it again because he fully intends to be rapey himself. Oh, he'd like it if she were willing, but he's not prepared to take the time to persuade her. Nope. He gives it a week, then basically decides it's time, even though she's still telling him to go stuff himself. Screw "willing," he'll settle for helpless.
The first "love" scene goes like this:
Tavis, having bathed and donned a robe (I'm envisioning this skeazy porno actor) walks into Storm's guarded chamber and has his men remove her young cousin, who's trying valiantly to protect her.
S: Please don't do this. I'm a virgin. I'd like to be willing (and wedded) my first time.
T: I've been fantasizing about you for years, sweetheart, and I'm way too horny to give it up now.
S: Why don't you go bang your mistress—you know, the nasty bitch who just sucker-punched me a little while ago and you didn't protect me?
T: Been there, did her. Now it's your lucky day, hun. Your stepmum's dragging her feet about paying a ransom, so now you can pay for your board and keep in my bed.
S: I know our families are enemies, but please don't make me whore for my freedom.
T: What I'm going to do with you has nothing to do with your being a prisoner (because this guy would TOTALLY have a shot if S wasn't completely helpless). By the time your ransom's paid I'll be tired of you. This is just because I've had a Jones for you since you were a tyke, and I don't give a rat's bum whether you want this, it's going to happen because *I* do.
So then there's lots of heavy breathing, and of course Storm can't help herself—she's into it. When it's over, she cries out of helpless frustration and he feels guilty for like a second, then he says,
T: I've had your virginity, and even if I could give it back, I'd just take it again. C'mon, I want to have another go, and it's not as much fun if you cry.
And I'm supposed to like this guy.
And then there's the rest of the clan. They talk about how they like her and respect her and they respect her dad even though they're feuding with him, and they don't want to see her hurt, but they all shrug and say "He sure took his time," when Tavis finally forces her.
As for Storm, rather than wishing the lot of them to hell, she's a perfect little saint. Tavis has been eating his guts out with guilt (no, not because he forced an unwilling virgin) because he thinks he got plotzed one night and banged his stepmummy.
God forbid this creep should feel guilty about anything. Storm proves he didn't do it, and also saves Colin's life—again, by proving stepmummy was trying to poison the old coot. Stepmummy tries to kill her and manages to slash her pretty good. Tavis holds her down while she's stitched, then takes her to her room and leaves her (still unconscious) so he can go get plotzed again. What a guy.
OK, so THEN, when Storm starts to recover, the clan is visited by the MacDubhs. As the evening wears on, Storm, sensitive to her "hosts," realizes that if she weren't there they and the MacDubhs could plot more readily against her family. So she politely excuses herself.
Yeah, I totally understand this woman.
Alexander MacDubh has had a lifelong rivalry with Tavis—in fact, years ago, he seduced the first woman Tavis "lurved," so Tavis has a bit of a complex. Alex tries to seduce Storm, and Storm politely refuses. But, natch, Tavis assumes the worst. He calls her a slut, and reminds her that she's HIS slut and sends her to bed. She's pissed and says a bunch of stuff in Irish Gaelic, and when she gets to her room she throws her clothes around (handily making herself naked for when Tavis arrives). He follows, and (now, remember he had to seduce her forcibly) accuses her of being an easy, sleazy whore, and while he rants, she gets past her anger and starts seeing how he must feel unsure of himself (as well he should, since he had to RAPE her), so she's all empathetic, and struggling with how to make HER RAPIST feel better about himself without telling him SHE WUVS him.
The ONE intelligent thing she does is, when he pouts (!) that she would sleep with Alex, she admits it—says if Tavis casts her aside (as he PLANS to do) and she has nowhere to go, she'd go to Alex. But that seems more meant to manipulate Tavis to keep her around. If she'd said it to drive him nuts, I'd be OK with it. But no, she wants to reassure him that she'll only screw Alex when Tavis is done with her.
No, really….
So she's saved the laird's sorry-a$$ed life—twice—and made sure her RAPIST feels like a REAL man. And now the creepy English wannabe fiance steals her back to England. When Storm's young cousin tells the MacScumbags that Hugh (the creepy Englishman) will abuse her until she agrees to marry him, and will keep her alive only long enough to rape her and claim her dowry, what does Colin say?
"Gee, sorry, kid, but can't risk my own lads to save her." It's only after the cousin tells them how to sneak into the Eldon keep without taking any risks that these wusses agree to try.
Meanwhile, S is being beat all to hell. She realizes in the middle of the beating (duh) that Tavis could've made her pregnant and then fears for Tavis's baby, while Tavis and the MacWankers are arguing about whether to exert themselves to rescue her.
I'll be fair one more time. Tavis does end up paying for some of the $hitty things he does, so by the end I was OK (just barely) with the HEA (but I would've liked it a WHOLE lot better if SOMEONE had beat the snot out of him first). I'll give it an extra half star for that. So it gets three.
NOTE: Adding insult to injury, I also bought His Bonnie Bride when I noticed it was a title I hadn't read yet. Turns out it's a re-release of the same dam story. I'm giving that one ONE star because I'm PI$$ED that I spent the dinero for the same book!
FF six years or so, and you got it, Tavis is skulking around the Eldon properties. He gets a point for saving Storm from a rapey suitor who's trying to marry her dowry, but he loses it again because he fully intends to be rapey himself. Oh, he'd like it if she were willing, but he's not prepared to take the time to persuade her. Nope. He gives it a week, then basically decides it's time, even though she's still telling him to go stuff himself. Screw "willing," he'll settle for helpless.
The first "love" scene goes like this:
Tavis, having bathed and donned a robe (I'm envisioning this skeazy porno actor) walks into Storm's guarded chamber and has his men remove her young cousin, who's trying valiantly to protect her.
S: Please don't do this. I'm a virgin. I'd like to be willing (and wedded) my first time.
T: I've been fantasizing about you for years, sweetheart, and I'm way too horny to give it up now.
S: Why don't you go bang your mistress—you know, the nasty bitch who just sucker-punched me a little while ago and you didn't protect me?
T: Been there, did her. Now it's your lucky day, hun. Your stepmum's dragging her feet about paying a ransom, so now you can pay for your board and keep in my bed.
S: I know our families are enemies, but please don't make me whore for my freedom.
T: What I'm going to do with you has nothing to do with your being a prisoner (because this guy would TOTALLY have a shot if S wasn't completely helpless). By the time your ransom's paid I'll be tired of you. This is just because I've had a Jones for you since you were a tyke, and I don't give a rat's bum whether you want this, it's going to happen because *I* do.
So then there's lots of heavy breathing, and of course Storm can't help herself—she's into it. When it's over, she cries out of helpless frustration and he feels guilty for like a second, then he says,
T: I've had your virginity, and even if I could give it back, I'd just take it again. C'mon, I want to have another go, and it's not as much fun if you cry.
And I'm supposed to like this guy.
And then there's the rest of the clan. They talk about how they like her and respect her and they respect her dad even though they're feuding with him, and they don't want to see her hurt, but they all shrug and say "He sure took his time," when Tavis finally forces her.
As for Storm, rather than wishing the lot of them to hell, she's a perfect little saint. Tavis has been eating his guts out with guilt (no, not because he forced an unwilling virgin) because he thinks he got plotzed one night and banged his stepmummy.
God forbid this creep should feel guilty about anything. Storm proves he didn't do it, and also saves Colin's life—again, by proving stepmummy was trying to poison the old coot. Stepmummy tries to kill her and manages to slash her pretty good. Tavis holds her down while she's stitched, then takes her to her room and leaves her (still unconscious) so he can go get plotzed again. What a guy.
OK, so THEN, when Storm starts to recover, the clan is visited by the MacDubhs. As the evening wears on, Storm, sensitive to her "hosts," realizes that if she weren't there they and the MacDubhs could plot more readily against her family. So she politely excuses herself.
Yeah, I totally understand this woman.
Alexander MacDubh has had a lifelong rivalry with Tavis—in fact, years ago, he seduced the first woman Tavis "lurved," so Tavis has a bit of a complex. Alex tries to seduce Storm, and Storm politely refuses. But, natch, Tavis assumes the worst. He calls her a slut, and reminds her that she's HIS slut and sends her to bed. She's pissed and says a bunch of stuff in Irish Gaelic, and when she gets to her room she throws her clothes around (handily making herself naked for when Tavis arrives). He follows, and (now, remember he had to seduce her forcibly) accuses her of being an easy, sleazy whore, and while he rants, she gets past her anger and starts seeing how he must feel unsure of himself (as well he should, since he had to RAPE her), so she's all empathetic, and struggling with how to make HER RAPIST feel better about himself without telling him SHE WUVS him.
The ONE intelligent thing she does is, when he pouts (!) that she would sleep with Alex, she admits it—says if Tavis casts her aside (as he PLANS to do) and she has nowhere to go, she'd go to Alex. But that seems more meant to manipulate Tavis to keep her around. If she'd said it to drive him nuts, I'd be OK with it. But no, she wants to reassure him that she'll only screw Alex when Tavis is done with her.
No, really….
So she's saved the laird's sorry-a$$ed life—twice—and made sure her RAPIST feels like a REAL man. And now the creepy English wannabe fiance steals her back to England. When Storm's young cousin tells the MacScumbags that Hugh (the creepy Englishman) will abuse her until she agrees to marry him, and will keep her alive only long enough to rape her and claim her dowry, what does Colin say?
"Gee, sorry, kid, but can't risk my own lads to save her." It's only after the cousin tells them how to sneak into the Eldon keep without taking any risks that these wusses agree to try.
Meanwhile, S is being beat all to hell. She realizes in the middle of the beating (duh) that Tavis could've made her pregnant and then fears for Tavis's baby, while Tavis and the MacWankers are arguing about whether to exert themselves to rescue her.
I'll be fair one more time. Tavis does end up paying for some of the $hitty things he does, so by the end I was OK (just barely) with the HEA (but I would've liked it a WHOLE lot better if SOMEONE had beat the snot out of him first). I'll give it an extra half star for that. So it gets three.
NOTE: Adding insult to injury, I also bought His Bonnie Bride when I noticed it was a title I hadn't read yet. Turns out it's a re-release of the same dam story. I'm giving that one ONE star because I'm PI$$ED that I spent the dinero for the same book!
August 27, 2015
Tavis MacLagan (Scotsman) is the WEAKEST, most SPINELESS excuse for a hero I've ever read in an HR...possibly ever.
I wish Lord Hugo had gelded him physically because he really lacked balls emotionally, mentally and morally. He never fought for anything other than land. When it came to women, he just took whatever he wanted as long as he didn't have to put much effort in obtaining it.
Tavis was completely undeserving of Storm and was definitely not a brave heart!
I wish Lord Hugo had gelded him physically because he really lacked balls emotionally, mentally and morally. He never fought for anything other than land. When it came to women, he just took whatever he wanted as long as he didn't have to put much effort in obtaining it.
Tavis was completely undeserving of Storm and was definitely not a brave heart!
July 28, 2023
I LOVED THIS BOOK. WOOOOOW!!!!
Damn this shiii had all sorts going on damnnnnn.
The angst was my kind of angst, like I cried at certain parts but it was still within the boundaries of my angst-o-thometer (lol) enough to make your heart go ‘pang pang pang’
I wasn’t expecting this book to contain all my favorite tropes.
1. Highlanders- sword fighting, cattle-theft and all
2. Red-haired lass (personally I LOVE red hair, mine is brown and boring 🥱) she has the sharpest tongue I’ve ever read 🔪 making her funny 😭 and she is petite 🐜
3. Age gaps less that 10 years (she was 17 and he was 26)..i always think that 17 is too young and to be honest it is....but I compare it to myself now...I’m 20 years now and I don’t feel any different even when I was 17 so like yea 🤷🏾♀️🤷🏾♀️ shes old enough I guess
4. Kidnapping the heroine ( I just love the whole ‘you are mine albeit by force’ idea, they get time to know each other and all)
5. I love how interlinked their families are, they were awesome side characters (apart from this one time the hero’s youngest brother attempted the unthinkable but all is well) the heroine saved the hero’s father (the laird) twice, so that gained her acceptance into the enemy clan
6. The rivalry between the two clans which didn’t at all seem hostile, yes there was about 2 war/battle scenes and no one important dies so that okay and since they were ‘best of enemies’ they soon got on fine after they joined forces to fight this third clans so obviously hostility evaporated and they are all jesting, clapping each others backs and shiiii, the two old lairds are gonna be best of fwendsssss 😆
7. Cat fights between the heroine and the OW....no like physically they fought each other, spoiler! our heroine knocks the mistress senseless with a blow, absolutely loved it ❤️❤️❤️(don’t worry the hero is DISGUSTED with his old mistress, they always seem to be crazy)
8. Heavy on the misogyny 😒😒naturally 🥱 unavoidably😠 pushing that aside the hero was soooo nice to the heroine, even though she was his prisoner and could’ve beaten and raped her, he seduces her and they form a bond love love love
9. PREGNANCYYYYYYYYY Gosh we love it when it’s the pregnant heroine that forces them back together after a mild split and they wed oh and major major spoiler
*they have twins *said in a whisper
the only set back is the abuse some of the women have to go through, none from the hero of course, but there are scenes that make you cringe with a guttural ache for the heroine, and afterwards you are like WOOOW she’s so strong dammmmn (no rape involved....several attempts though ....all unsuccessful🎉🎉). However some of the women (not the heroine) who are beaten, has you cheering, especially the villainous women who were plotting against our heroine—- I don’t usually condone such actions towards women...especially since these highlanders are all muscles and the women are all bone and breasts....but heyho, they deserved that shiiii🤷🏾♀️
So to summarize this book has a lot of dark elements going on, such as physical abuse, attempted rape, orgies- and other dark sexually orientated acts, an attempt to cheat (—-gosh that was such a heart panging scene) but all in all, our hero and heroine have a happily ever after (oh and they start there baby making (Only the act but as you know one thing leads to another ☺️) ...early on the book -about page 70 so you don’t have to wait long 😉)
Damn this shiii had all sorts going on damnnnnn.
The angst was my kind of angst, like I cried at certain parts but it was still within the boundaries of my angst-o-thometer (lol) enough to make your heart go ‘pang pang pang’
I wasn’t expecting this book to contain all my favorite tropes.
1. Highlanders- sword fighting, cattle-theft and all
2. Red-haired lass (personally I LOVE red hair, mine is brown and boring 🥱) she has the sharpest tongue I’ve ever read 🔪 making her funny 😭 and she is petite 🐜
3. Age gaps less that 10 years (she was 17 and he was 26)..i always think that 17 is too young and to be honest it is....but I compare it to myself now...I’m 20 years now and I don’t feel any different even when I was 17 so like yea 🤷🏾♀️🤷🏾♀️ shes old enough I guess
4. Kidnapping the heroine ( I just love the whole ‘you are mine albeit by force’ idea, they get time to know each other and all)
5. I love how interlinked their families are, they were awesome side characters (apart from this one time the hero’s youngest brother attempted the unthinkable but all is well) the heroine saved the hero’s father (the laird) twice, so that gained her acceptance into the enemy clan
6. The rivalry between the two clans which didn’t at all seem hostile, yes there was about 2 war/battle scenes and no one important dies so that okay and since they were ‘best of enemies’ they soon got on fine after they joined forces to fight this third clans so obviously hostility evaporated and they are all jesting, clapping each others backs and shiiii, the two old lairds are gonna be best of fwendsssss 😆
7. Cat fights between the heroine and the OW....no like physically they fought each other, spoiler! our heroine knocks the mistress senseless with a blow, absolutely loved it ❤️❤️❤️(don’t worry the hero is DISGUSTED with his old mistress, they always seem to be crazy)
8. Heavy on the misogyny 😒😒naturally 🥱 unavoidably😠 pushing that aside the hero was soooo nice to the heroine, even though she was his prisoner and could’ve beaten and raped her, he seduces her and they form a bond love love love
9. PREGNANCYYYYYYYYY Gosh we love it when it’s the pregnant heroine that forces them back together after a mild split and they wed oh and major major spoiler
*they have twins *said in a whisper
the only set back is the abuse some of the women have to go through, none from the hero of course, but there are scenes that make you cringe with a guttural ache for the heroine, and afterwards you are like WOOOW she’s so strong dammmmn (no rape involved....several attempts though ....all unsuccessful🎉🎉). However some of the women (not the heroine) who are beaten, has you cheering, especially the villainous women who were plotting against our heroine—- I don’t usually condone such actions towards women...especially since these highlanders are all muscles and the women are all bone and breasts....but heyho, they deserved that shiiii🤷🏾♀️
So to summarize this book has a lot of dark elements going on, such as physical abuse, attempted rape, orgies- and other dark sexually orientated acts, an attempt to cheat (—-gosh that was such a heart panging scene) but all in all, our hero and heroine have a happily ever after (oh and they start there baby making (Only the act but as you know one thing leads to another ☺️) ...early on the book -about page 70 so you don’t have to wait long 😉)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 11, 2016
I FINALLY finished reading this one. It has been pretty much years!! LOL It had nothing to do with the story though...I adore Hannah Howell and everything she writes....When I had started this book (way back when) I had started getting into Fifty Shades and books like it....basically "Erotica!!" Of course, these Highlander books are far from that, and at the time I veered away from it. I do miss this genre though, and while I was reading another book that was frustrating me, I decided to finish this one!!
Another great read by the Queen of Historical Romance!!! I love how she writes her Highlanders and also how she writes little children in her stories. This one had a few very cute kids in it, and they melted my heart like usual!!! I will always hold Ms. Howell's books close to my heart...they are a special kind of read!
Another great read by the Queen of Historical Romance!!! I love how she writes her Highlanders and also how she writes little children in her stories. This one had a few very cute kids in it, and they melted my heart like usual!!! I will always hold Ms. Howell's books close to my heart...they are a special kind of read!
December 12, 2013
I actually started out really enjoying this book, despite the fact that Tavis is kind of a man-whore and his current mistress shows up constantly in the story. I'll tell you now, I really hate those kind of heroes, and the fact that I was willing to overlook it should say how much I was digging this book.
Of course, then the author had to go and get stupider than stupid. I think the whole last half of the book was pointless. Seriously? By the end I was absolutely sick of Tavis and sick of his and Storm's relationship. It was full of dumb miscommunications and more male stupidity than was necessary. I just wanted the story to be over with, to the point where I started skipping passages out of boredom. I didn't even fully read the last few pages.
After reading that last half, I now hate Tavis, which is really sad for me, because when I read a romance novel I want to look at the hero and say, "Dude, I so wish you were real so I could have you for myself."
Needless to say, I'm not really feeling that way now. In fact, I hope to gosh I don't ever date someone like this, otherwise I'll probably be forced to deck him.
If you are looking for a good, fuzzy feeling-inducing romance novel where the characters love each other so much they're willing to face down everything that stands in their path and aren't continually acting with enough unfathomable stupidity to make you want to rip your hair out, then this book is not for you.
Of course, then the author had to go and get stupider than stupid. I think the whole last half of the book was pointless. Seriously? By the end I was absolutely sick of Tavis and sick of his and Storm's relationship. It was full of dumb miscommunications and more male stupidity than was necessary. I just wanted the story to be over with, to the point where I started skipping passages out of boredom. I didn't even fully read the last few pages.
After reading that last half, I now hate Tavis, which is really sad for me, because when I read a romance novel I want to look at the hero and say, "Dude, I so wish you were real so I could have you for myself."
Needless to say, I'm not really feeling that way now. In fact, I hope to gosh I don't ever date someone like this, otherwise I'll probably be forced to deck him.
If you are looking for a good, fuzzy feeling-inducing romance novel where the characters love each other so much they're willing to face down everything that stands in their path and aren't continually acting with enough unfathomable stupidity to make you want to rip your hair out, then this book is not for you.
March 18, 2020
3 stars for the book and 1 star for the audio
I listened/read this one…The book is ok-pretty good, and the audio (free with audible escapes) is entertaining enough. This wasn’t exactly what I expected… First, they aren’t married…she’s not a bride; they aren’t even a “couple” for the majority of the book. They have an exclusive sexual relationship, but neither is expecting long term because she will return to England and he’s a Scottish rouge. I also thought there’d be tons of OW drama, and broody male alpha goodness…. not so much.
A 10-year old Storm Eldon is kidnapped by the Maclagan’s to be ransomed back to their families. Storm is a feisty little lass, and catches the eye of a 19-yr Tavis (oldest son of the laird) he is smitten and plans to follow up after she “grows up.” FF a few years ( 6 or 7 ) and Tavis finds Storm fighting off the unwanted advances of Sir Hugh, so he kidnaps her again. The “kidnapping” is all very agreeable with everyone; Storm doesn’t protest, and is friendly with her old captor buds.
Storm and Tavis are instantly attracted to each other, but she isn’t about to be a whore. Enter his mistress of two years Kate, and his MIL Janet (who totally wants to bang him) and I was all excited for some crazy OW drama. Unfortunately, there wasn’t much…Tavis shuts down the mistress (even with her waiting naked in his bed) and sends her home. The MIL drama was dealt with in the same chapter. Actually, all this was wrapped up by the 30% mark.
The rest of the book revolves around Storm and Tavis’s relationship, and the conflict with her evil step mom and Sir Hugh. There are some exciting parts here and there…a couple kidnappings… a couple battles, but everything is tied up fairly quickly. It got a bit boring, and Tavis being “unsure and confused” with his feelings towards Storm got old.
There is plenty of sexytime, but I felt like the author was all over the place which I found annoying. Empowering Storm one minute, and making her a witless hussy the next. I can’t explain without spoilers…so beware..spoilers ahead.
I listened/read this one…The book is ok-pretty good, and the audio (free with audible escapes) is entertaining enough. This wasn’t exactly what I expected… First, they aren’t married…she’s not a bride; they aren’t even a “couple” for the majority of the book. They have an exclusive sexual relationship, but neither is expecting long term because she will return to England and he’s a Scottish rouge. I also thought there’d be tons of OW drama, and broody male alpha goodness…. not so much.
A 10-year old Storm Eldon is kidnapped by the Maclagan’s to be ransomed back to their families. Storm is a feisty little lass, and catches the eye of a 19-yr Tavis (oldest son of the laird) he is smitten and plans to follow up after she “grows up.” FF a few years ( 6 or 7 ) and Tavis finds Storm fighting off the unwanted advances of Sir Hugh, so he kidnaps her again. The “kidnapping” is all very agreeable with everyone; Storm doesn’t protest, and is friendly with her old captor buds.
Storm and Tavis are instantly attracted to each other, but she isn’t about to be a whore. Enter his mistress of two years Kate, and his MIL Janet (who totally wants to bang him) and I was all excited for some crazy OW drama. Unfortunately, there wasn’t much…Tavis shuts down the mistress (even with her waiting naked in his bed) and sends her home. The MIL drama was dealt with in the same chapter. Actually, all this was wrapped up by the 30% mark.
The rest of the book revolves around Storm and Tavis’s relationship, and the conflict with her evil step mom and Sir Hugh. There are some exciting parts here and there…a couple kidnappings… a couple battles, but everything is tied up fairly quickly. It got a bit boring, and Tavis being “unsure and confused” with his feelings towards Storm got old.
There is plenty of sexytime, but I felt like the author was all over the place which I found annoying. Empowering Storm one minute, and making her a witless hussy the next. I can’t explain without spoilers…so beware..spoilers ahead.
June 14, 2011
It was a really great book and I really liked it. The only thing that hesitates me giving it 5 stars was the hero. There were several times I wanted to beat him upside the head. I also didn't too much care for the forced seduction thing. She said no, that should be enough regardless. I find that pill hard to swallow in any book. Also, when the brother hit on the heroine, I wanted to smoosh like a little bug under my shoe. He basically pounced on her and started undoing her laces and taking advantage when she was going to try to save the hero. I found it a little backhanded and he did feel guilty later, but I felt it shouldn't have been an issue at all. It would be one thing if the hero was completely dead and gone, but he was still alive and fairly well and I found his actions to be rather dirty. Otherwise, it was a fairly good book. I just enjoyed Hannah's later novels more, the Murray's especially. Still, this book was packed with action and emotion. The characters were greatly developed, even secondary characters and I loved little Phelan, Storm's cousin, and Tavis's father Colin was great. I understand that some of the book was how it was back then, but it can still be irritating, especially some of the men's views on things, but later Storm kind of spelled it out to her father some of the hypocrisy. I loved the heroine. She was strong, spunky, had a great fire to her, but still was soft enough to love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2012
I really enjoyed the heroine in this book....up until they made her into a sex slave who was sorta "whatever" about the whole situation... I couldn't get over the fact that she wasn't ashamed of it (even though I know its normal at that time as the author reminded us multiple times it doesn't mean I would accept it as a story line). I was trying real hard to ignore it because the story was actually very entertaining but yeah I just couldn't do it....I gotta stop reading these kidnapping stories lol- I just keep getting heartbroken whenever they cross the line and have sex but they're still captive and I end up hating the hero/heroine.
I did enjoy the story enough to almost but not quiet finish it though so I guess it wasn't that hard to ignore that fact for a while.. however I disliked the hero very much at that point and I didn't see redemption so I dropped it.
I did enjoy the story enough to almost but not quiet finish it though so I guess it wasn't that hard to ignore that fact for a while.. however I disliked the hero very much at that point and I didn't see redemption so I dropped it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2018
I absolutely hated this book! I thought Tavis MacLagen was a horrible hero, there was nothing good about him at all. Storm Eldon was a fabulous character, she was funny, feisty, strong and she totally didn't need that loser in her life who pretty much rapes her but the author keeps telling us that it's called making "love". I really enjoyed all of the secondary characters and am happy to see that some of them will be in the next two books in this series.
February 14, 2020
This title popped up in my feed. I checked and discovered that I had not read it. How is that possible? I have read all of Hannah Howell's highlander books years ago. So, I got it and started reading it. It was not long into the book that I recognized the story line. Upon further investigation, I learned that the publisher had re-published it under a new name. It was formerly published as "Amber Flame." Regardless, I continued to read and finished the book. Given that it was a bit dated (first published in 1988), I still enjoyed it. Hannah Howell first introduced me to "Highlanders" back in the 80's, well before other authors picked up on the genre. Highlander books have always been a favorite of mine thanks to her. ;)
December 11, 2013
I’m constantly in search of a good Scottish novel, and this one piqued my interest because it sounded passionate and almost like a Romero/Juliet set up. Who doesn’t love a burgeoning romance between lovers from opposite sides? In this case, the English (Eldon’s) and the Scottish-Lowlanders (MacLagan’s) are generational enemies as their lands are close to the border. Although, I really enjoyed the romance, the rocky ride toward and HEA is not without its painful moments.
WHAT I REALLY LIKED ABOUT THIS BOOK:
1. HERO AND HEROINE--they are both unique and interesting characters. Storm Eldon (who is part Irish and English) is the wealthy daughter of Lord Eldon and finds herself kidnapped by the Scotts as a child (10 years old), and again as a young lady (17 years). Both she, and the hero, Tavis MacLagan (Scottish heir) have this exciting little connection and chemistry. So, upon their second meeting, Tavis plays the role of a savior as well as captor. Even though I found Tavis to be dangerously appealing, I definitely loved Storm a lot more. Tavis has some definite flaws that are showcased throughout the book. Storm is a lot more introspective about her feelings, but as a woman she’s also a lot more vulnerable, and maybe that’s why I really sympathized with her.
2. I thought the romance in the first part of the book was on fire. Even though, I must caution that the hero forcibly seduces the heroine…which is hard to explain, but ultimately, the heroine gives herself completely to the hero and both enjoy a mutually, passionate romance. The romance in the first part of the book is filled with many indulgent and passionate moments that are so nice for the reader who is a helpless romantic.
3. There is a wide expanse of side characters, which are explored with some detail. You can’t help but feel an affinity for the brothers, cousins and fathers on both sides.
4. The narrator, McNab Ashford is fabulous…I enjoy her voicing for both males and females. She does a wonderful job. She has a really good English and Scottish accent.
THE PARTS OF THE BOOK THAT I STRUGGLED WITH:
1. The hero’s flaws are hard to stomach in some areas. His mistress makes a few appearances, and was not dealt with as effectively as I would have liked. The hero DROVE ME FREAKEN NUTS in parts where he couldn’t seem to make up his mind about Storm, in terms of her permanent presence in his life. I kept thinking that perhaps this exhibited a feeling of high anxiety or that he was simply overwhelmed with the complexity of barriers they faced as familial enemies. Many times, Tavis mentioned that he felt like grabbing Storm and running off with her, but there are parts where he did not speak up when he should have. Although there was no doubt that Tavis was smitten with Storm, in terms of love, Storm was the more courageous one.
2. The villains were absolutely despicable and I felt as though their depraved, sexual and violent lifestyle was explored a lot more than I would have liked. Seriously, Lady Mary (Storm’s evil stepmother), and her lover are monsters.
3. It’s weird how Part 2 of the book was littered with so much dialogue among characters. Conversations between characters were really drawn out (pre-battle, during the battle, post-battle, etc.). I found myself forwarding or skipping the long, drawn out parts.
4. The misunderstanding between Tavis and Storm in Part 2 was a little exhausting, time consuming and just angsty. Both Tavis and Storm are good with the physical communication of love, but not the verbal…..lol
Even though I struggled with some parts of the book, overall I found this to be an enjoyable listening/reading experience. I found that I cared about the characters and wanted to see them work things out till the very end. I plan to continue with the series.
WHAT I REALLY LIKED ABOUT THIS BOOK:
1. HERO AND HEROINE--they are both unique and interesting characters. Storm Eldon (who is part Irish and English) is the wealthy daughter of Lord Eldon and finds herself kidnapped by the Scotts as a child (10 years old), and again as a young lady (17 years). Both she, and the hero, Tavis MacLagan (Scottish heir) have this exciting little connection and chemistry. So, upon their second meeting, Tavis plays the role of a savior as well as captor. Even though I found Tavis to be dangerously appealing, I definitely loved Storm a lot more. Tavis has some definite flaws that are showcased throughout the book. Storm is a lot more introspective about her feelings, but as a woman she’s also a lot more vulnerable, and maybe that’s why I really sympathized with her.
2. I thought the romance in the first part of the book was on fire. Even though, I must caution that the hero forcibly seduces the heroine…which is hard to explain, but ultimately, the heroine gives herself completely to the hero and both enjoy a mutually, passionate romance. The romance in the first part of the book is filled with many indulgent and passionate moments that are so nice for the reader who is a helpless romantic.
3. There is a wide expanse of side characters, which are explored with some detail. You can’t help but feel an affinity for the brothers, cousins and fathers on both sides.
4. The narrator, McNab Ashford is fabulous…I enjoy her voicing for both males and females. She does a wonderful job. She has a really good English and Scottish accent.
THE PARTS OF THE BOOK THAT I STRUGGLED WITH:
1. The hero’s flaws are hard to stomach in some areas. His mistress makes a few appearances, and was not dealt with as effectively as I would have liked. The hero DROVE ME FREAKEN NUTS in parts where he couldn’t seem to make up his mind about Storm, in terms of her permanent presence in his life. I kept thinking that perhaps this exhibited a feeling of high anxiety or that he was simply overwhelmed with the complexity of barriers they faced as familial enemies. Many times, Tavis mentioned that he felt like grabbing Storm and running off with her, but there are parts where he did not speak up when he should have. Although there was no doubt that Tavis was smitten with Storm, in terms of love, Storm was the more courageous one.
2. The villains were absolutely despicable and I felt as though their depraved, sexual and violent lifestyle was explored a lot more than I would have liked. Seriously, Lady Mary (Storm’s evil stepmother), and her lover are monsters.
3. It’s weird how Part 2 of the book was littered with so much dialogue among characters. Conversations between characters were really drawn out (pre-battle, during the battle, post-battle, etc.). I found myself forwarding or skipping the long, drawn out parts.
4. The misunderstanding between Tavis and Storm in Part 2 was a little exhausting, time consuming and just angsty. Both Tavis and Storm are good with the physical communication of love, but not the verbal…..lol
Even though I struggled with some parts of the book, overall I found this to be an enjoyable listening/reading experience. I found that I cared about the characters and wanted to see them work things out till the very end. I plan to continue with the series.
September 29, 2017
3 Estrellas. Me gustaría decir que me ha gustado más, pero algo me ha impedido que llegara a las 4 estrellas, puede que sea la actitud de los personajes, o en general que es un libro que no hay que tomarse demasiado en serio, pues está hecho con el fin de entretener y divertir al lector.
La primera mitad ha sido muy movida y rápida de leer, y me estaba enganchando bastante, pero repito, es un libro que no hay que tomar demasiado en serio porque tiene demasiadas incoherencias, respecto a la época, ambientación y situaciones.
Es puramente una novela medieval, no sólo medieval, si no de escoceses. Se trata de dos enemigos, el conde Lord Eldon que mantiene a raya a los escoceses en la frontera, y el clan MacLagan. Durante generaciones han estado enfrentados, pero los primogénitos de cada familia se conocerán y se enamorarán.
Storm me ha gustado bastante como protagonista, pese a que no me creyese en ningún momento que no pudiera sentir miedo por estar secuestrada. Tavis me ha gustado algo menos, sobre todo al final, necesitaba que espabilara un poco y se diera cuenta de lo que tiene delante de sus narices.
Los secundarios han estado bastante bien, desde los padres de ambos protagonistas, hasta la odiosa Lady Mary o el cromañón de Sir Hugh. Son realmente odiosos.
Ha sido la primera vez que he leído un libro de ésta escritora y aunque ha sido grato, me ha faltado algo más, veremos si en el siguiente libro me convence.
La primera mitad ha sido muy movida y rápida de leer, y me estaba enganchando bastante, pero repito, es un libro que no hay que tomar demasiado en serio porque tiene demasiadas incoherencias, respecto a la época, ambientación y situaciones.
Es puramente una novela medieval, no sólo medieval, si no de escoceses. Se trata de dos enemigos, el conde Lord Eldon que mantiene a raya a los escoceses en la frontera, y el clan MacLagan. Durante generaciones han estado enfrentados, pero los primogénitos de cada familia se conocerán y se enamorarán.
Storm me ha gustado bastante como protagonista, pese a que no me creyese en ningún momento que no pudiera sentir miedo por estar secuestrada. Tavis me ha gustado algo menos, sobre todo al final, necesitaba que espabilara un poco y se diera cuenta de lo que tiene delante de sus narices.
Los secundarios han estado bastante bien, desde los padres de ambos protagonistas, hasta la odiosa Lady Mary o el cromañón de Sir Hugh. Son realmente odiosos.
Ha sido la primera vez que he leído un libro de ésta escritora y aunque ha sido grato, me ha faltado algo más, veremos si en el siguiente libro me convence.
December 17, 2011
Una de las mejores novelas de época que he leído.
Hannah logro conquistar mi alma de mujer apasionada por la lectura con su protagonista femenina Storm Pipere Eldon.
No quiero darles spoilers por que esa no es mi meta al hacer un comentario sobre el libro, lo que si quiero decirles es que yo disfrute mucho su lectura.
La manera en que Hannah entreteje la historia de dos familias que se odian y que terminaran unidas (muchos dirán que ese argumento ya esta demasiado gastado en la literatura, pero yo les digo que esta tiene algo especial) por dos personas de carácter difícil, apasionados y bastante obstinados.
Ella, Storm Eldon es una mujer fuerte, compasiva, valiente, decidida, apasionada, honesta, cariñosa, sarcástica, graciosa, obstinada, sensual… en pocas palabras, es una de esas mujeres que una admira por su manera de ser.
Él, Tavis MacLagan un hombre testarudo, decidido, fuerte, protector, arrogante, engreído, pero que en la intimidad y preso de las pasiones se torna cariñoso, complaciente, tierno… un hombre que es capaz de trenzar tiernamente los cabellos de una niña o empuñar valientemente su espada en contra de sus enemigos.
¿Por qué deben leer el libro?
Por que desde el principio es una historia apasiónate, por que sus protagonistas se roban el show con sus discusiones, por que sus personajes secundarios forman parte importante de la novela y en muchos casos pasan a ser las estrellas, por su argumento y por la estupenda manera en que esta narrada.
Lo que más me gusto:
La pasión de Tavis y Storm y no solo en el ámbito sexual, sus discusiones, los comentarios sarcásticos, la manera en que enfrentan las adversidades, las familias de ambos, los padres (par de viejos adorados), hermanos, primos, tíos… todos hacen parte de un amalgama literaria que te dejara con ganas de mas.
Lo que no me gusto:
En algunos momentos se torna lenta, sosa y hasta aburrida pero que a medida que avanzas en la lectura apreciaras esos momentos. El final no me gusto del todo, creo que la autora me quedo debiendo un poco con la reconciliación y de la vida en pareja que YO hubiese deseado entre Tavis y Storm.
La mejor frase:
Escoger una sola no me fue fácil, así que dejos varias de las que mas me gustaron :)
—Esperas para conseguir lo que algunos de nosotros no hemos encontrado nunca.
—Imagino que estabas contando los dientes de Katerine con la lengua para no mojarte los dedos.
— Cuando ansiaba que hablaras, guardaste silencio. La segunda vez estaba dispuesta a escuchar, incluso confiaba en tus vanas palabras, pero ya tenías la boca ocupada en otra cosa.
—Hasta las cosas más vulgares se ansían cuando una se aburre.
Hannah logro conquistar mi alma de mujer apasionada por la lectura con su protagonista femenina Storm Pipere Eldon.
No quiero darles spoilers por que esa no es mi meta al hacer un comentario sobre el libro, lo que si quiero decirles es que yo disfrute mucho su lectura.
La manera en que Hannah entreteje la historia de dos familias que se odian y que terminaran unidas (muchos dirán que ese argumento ya esta demasiado gastado en la literatura, pero yo les digo que esta tiene algo especial) por dos personas de carácter difícil, apasionados y bastante obstinados.
Ella, Storm Eldon es una mujer fuerte, compasiva, valiente, decidida, apasionada, honesta, cariñosa, sarcástica, graciosa, obstinada, sensual… en pocas palabras, es una de esas mujeres que una admira por su manera de ser.
Él, Tavis MacLagan un hombre testarudo, decidido, fuerte, protector, arrogante, engreído, pero que en la intimidad y preso de las pasiones se torna cariñoso, complaciente, tierno… un hombre que es capaz de trenzar tiernamente los cabellos de una niña o empuñar valientemente su espada en contra de sus enemigos.
¿Por qué deben leer el libro?
Por que desde el principio es una historia apasiónate, por que sus protagonistas se roban el show con sus discusiones, por que sus personajes secundarios forman parte importante de la novela y en muchos casos pasan a ser las estrellas, por su argumento y por la estupenda manera en que esta narrada.
Lo que más me gusto:
La pasión de Tavis y Storm y no solo en el ámbito sexual, sus discusiones, los comentarios sarcásticos, la manera en que enfrentan las adversidades, las familias de ambos, los padres (par de viejos adorados), hermanos, primos, tíos… todos hacen parte de un amalgama literaria que te dejara con ganas de mas.
Lo que no me gusto:
En algunos momentos se torna lenta, sosa y hasta aburrida pero que a medida que avanzas en la lectura apreciaras esos momentos. El final no me gusto del todo, creo que la autora me quedo debiendo un poco con la reconciliación y de la vida en pareja que YO hubiese deseado entre Tavis y Storm.
La mejor frase:
Escoger una sola no me fue fácil, así que dejos varias de las que mas me gustaron :)
—Esperas para conseguir lo que algunos de nosotros no hemos encontrado nunca.
—Imagino que estabas contando los dientes de Katerine con la lengua para no mojarte los dedos.
— Cuando ansiaba que hablaras, guardaste silencio. La segunda vez estaba dispuesta a escuchar, incluso confiaba en tus vanas palabras, pero ya tenías la boca ocupada en otra cosa.
—Hasta las cosas más vulgares se ansían cuando una se aburre.
June 25, 2008
When Storm is abducted (again) by her family's mortal enemy, Tavis MacLagan, the tone has changed. Tavis is still fascinated by her, but now his fascination is of a more adult nature.
I wanted to like this a little more than I actually did. Tavis is annoyingly dense, and it takes way too long for a happy ending (including too many odd delays). I'm not sure he ever really expresses his feelings, even at the end. The villains are cliched to the extreme, and it's hard to take them seriously as they sneer and whore about. There are also some unbelievable plot twists that had me shaking my head.
I wanted to like this a little more than I actually did. Tavis is annoyingly dense, and it takes way too long for a happy ending (including too many odd delays). I'm not sure he ever really expresses his feelings, even at the end. The villains are cliched to the extreme, and it's hard to take them seriously as they sneer and whore about. There are also some unbelievable plot twists that had me shaking my head.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 13, 2013
I've been in a Highlander romance kick recently and stumbled on
HIS BONNIE BRIDE
(republished by Zebra Books, 2012) during an ebook sale over Thanksgiving. I was just looking for something light to read while I traveled in the car for 11 hours, and this ebook looked like the perfect escape.
Previously published in 1988 under the title AMBER FLAME, HIS BONNIE BRIDE is the first book in Hannah Howell's HIGHLAND BRIDES SERIES and for me a solid 4 star read. Set in the 14th century, it tells the story of Storm Eldon, a feisty, independent and witty English border woman, and Tavis MacLagan, the confident, good-looking heir of the Scottish castle Caraidland. Their families are enemies and have been stealing cattle, horses and other property from each other for generations. It's at the end of one of these border thefts that Tavis and his brothers save Storm from being raped by one of her stepmother's lovers. The men strip the attacker, strap him to his horse, and send him back to the Eldon stronghold in shame. Once they determine that Storm's father, brothers and male cousins aren't around to protect her from further harm by the man, Tavis decides to put her on his horse and head back to Caraidland. He wants to seduce Storm but waits until his clan has heard whether or not her ransom will be paid. All of Storm's adult male relatives are in another country fighting, leaving her stepmother in charge of the Eldon stronghold. She is a spoiled woman, who kills whenever she wants and spends as much money as the Eldon clan can raise. Storm's future with Tavis is set when her stepmother refuses to pay the ransom, and Tavis begins his seduction of Storm in earnest.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book with all its parallel storylines and interesting characters, particularly since there's something for every taste. A murder plot; a kinky, lusty, evil stepmother; rugged, handsome highlanders; a strong heroine; sensual romance; battles and altercations; secret goings-on; and, some laugh-out-loud humor. I read the whole book in sort of one sitting (not too difficult on an 11-hour car ride) and was glad I discovered this story. It turned out to be just the thing I needed to turn a long trip into a fairly pleasant ride.
* BEWARE: Because of the sex scenes and a bit of gruesome violence, I only recommend HIS BONNIE BRIDE for readers 18 years and above.
If You Like This Book, You May Also Like -- Other Highlander series by Hannah Howell, Highland Adventure Series by Vonda Sinclair, Stolen Bride Series by Eliza Knight, Hot Highlanders Books by Mary Wine, Bad Boys of the Highlands Series by Victoria Roberts.
** The second book in the series is HIGHLAND WEDDING, also reprinted in 2012.
*** Visit Blue Moon Mystery Saloon blog for more book reviews.
Previously published in 1988 under the title AMBER FLAME, HIS BONNIE BRIDE is the first book in Hannah Howell's HIGHLAND BRIDES SERIES and for me a solid 4 star read. Set in the 14th century, it tells the story of Storm Eldon, a feisty, independent and witty English border woman, and Tavis MacLagan, the confident, good-looking heir of the Scottish castle Caraidland. Their families are enemies and have been stealing cattle, horses and other property from each other for generations. It's at the end of one of these border thefts that Tavis and his brothers save Storm from being raped by one of her stepmother's lovers. The men strip the attacker, strap him to his horse, and send him back to the Eldon stronghold in shame. Once they determine that Storm's father, brothers and male cousins aren't around to protect her from further harm by the man, Tavis decides to put her on his horse and head back to Caraidland. He wants to seduce Storm but waits until his clan has heard whether or not her ransom will be paid. All of Storm's adult male relatives are in another country fighting, leaving her stepmother in charge of the Eldon stronghold. She is a spoiled woman, who kills whenever she wants and spends as much money as the Eldon clan can raise. Storm's future with Tavis is set when her stepmother refuses to pay the ransom, and Tavis begins his seduction of Storm in earnest.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book with all its parallel storylines and interesting characters, particularly since there's something for every taste. A murder plot; a kinky, lusty, evil stepmother; rugged, handsome highlanders; a strong heroine; sensual romance; battles and altercations; secret goings-on; and, some laugh-out-loud humor. I read the whole book in sort of one sitting (not too difficult on an 11-hour car ride) and was glad I discovered this story. It turned out to be just the thing I needed to turn a long trip into a fairly pleasant ride.
* BEWARE: Because of the sex scenes and a bit of gruesome violence, I only recommend HIS BONNIE BRIDE for readers 18 years and above.
If You Like This Book, You May Also Like -- Other Highlander series by Hannah Howell, Highland Adventure Series by Vonda Sinclair, Stolen Bride Series by Eliza Knight, Hot Highlanders Books by Mary Wine, Bad Boys of the Highlands Series by Victoria Roberts.
** The second book in the series is HIGHLAND WEDDING, also reprinted in 2012.
*** Visit Blue Moon Mystery Saloon blog for more book reviews.
March 19, 2015
2 stars -- it was OK. There were moments I enjoyed in the book and then some parts that bothered me. I don't know if I can chalk it up to medieval thinking about men and women roles or just poor character development. Sometimes I felt like the women had a "Sh!t happens" attitude while the men were very entitled.
June 25, 2019
Me atrapo muchísimo la historia y todo iba muy bien hasta casi al final Travis como casi la mayoría de hombres es un reverendo idiota. Duda y duda o tal ves no disfruto lo suficiente de sus mujeres, sip yo creo que si. Y Storm es todo lo que admiro en una mujer, me encanta como la autora la creo, se hacía respetar de una manera admirable e ingeniosa...
December 11, 2012
All I recall of this book, is the constant sexorz training by the hero, and the secondary hero trying to seduce the heroine, and she was all for it, but told him if he did it, it would be JUST sexual, that the hero had trained her body to respond to lovin'. XD
October 8, 2024
Wow, the author really packed it in for this novel. So many issues and things happening. I think I have to list them to save time. In no particular order here are the first 100 pages.
1. We meet heroine when she is 10 years old and then held ransom by the McLagens. Apparently this is done quite frequently and no harm is done to the children. Tavis is intrigued in a weird way by the child Storm Eldon, the daughter of his enemy. She is 10 and he is at least 18.
2. Storm (really the name is ridiculous) is now 18 years old and fending off the advances of this tool who her father would never let her marry, but her father is off fighting in France so it is difficult.
3. Tavis saves her from the creep and then kidnaps her again.
4. Stepmom is holding down the fort and having disturbing orgies.
5. Storm figures out who is trying to murder Tavis' father and gets herself nearly killed in the process.
6. Tavis must have Storm and is not trying to force her, but hey, he will if necessary.
7. 2 "other women"
8. Tavis' own brother comes close to raping her, but he's actually a nice guy!
9. And so on and so on... I cannot keep listing
This was certainly action-packed but I liked neither the heroine or hero in this story. She apparently had all the gifts and information available to help solve things for other people. However, she was just cringy to me. Also, Tavis was a loser who basically acted like he had no choice in anything. Both of their reasoning towards the end of the story was stupid and lacked any sort of common sense.
But I will probably try another by this author since it was so crazy.
1. We meet heroine when she is 10 years old and then held ransom by the McLagens. Apparently this is done quite frequently and no harm is done to the children. Tavis is intrigued in a weird way by the child Storm Eldon, the daughter of his enemy. She is 10 and he is at least 18.
2. Storm (really the name is ridiculous) is now 18 years old and fending off the advances of this tool who her father would never let her marry, but her father is off fighting in France so it is difficult.
3. Tavis saves her from the creep and then kidnaps her again.
4. Stepmom is holding down the fort and having disturbing orgies.
5. Storm figures out who is trying to murder Tavis' father and gets herself nearly killed in the process.
6. Tavis must have Storm and is not trying to force her, but hey, he will if necessary.
7. 2 "other women"
8. Tavis' own brother comes close to raping her, but he's actually a nice guy!
9. And so on and so on... I cannot keep listing
This was certainly action-packed but I liked neither the heroine or hero in this story. She apparently had all the gifts and information available to help solve things for other people. However, she was just cringy to me. Also, Tavis was a loser who basically acted like he had no choice in anything. Both of their reasoning towards the end of the story was stupid and lacked any sort of common sense.
But I will probably try another by this author since it was so crazy.
May 16, 2014
When Storm Eldon was very young, she was captured by the MacLagans, sworn Scottish enemies of the English Eldon’s. Bright and precocious, Storm was also something of a healer and even though she was a prisoner, she couldn’t help herself but to take over the dressing of the Clan MacLagan’s chieftain. As ransoming was a common practice between the two feuding families, honor was first and foremost and both family’s felt honor bound to treat their captives well.
Ten years later Storm once again finds herself in desperate straits. With her father off fighting another war, her step-mother was trying to force her into a marriage with Sir Hugh, one of her step-mothers lovers in order to gain control over Storm’s inheritance. In an attempt find solace Storm set out alone, followed and was about to be raped by Sir Hugh in order to force her into marriage. However, Tavis Maclagan and his clan members were out on a raid and saved her from that fate. Storm was captured again and she couldn’t help but notice by one very handsome Highland captor.
*** I loved every single moment of this divine audio book and especially by the performance of MacNab Ashford who brought all of these characters to vivid life! Other than a warning that you may find yourself using more gas than you want because of not wanting to shut off the audio in your car - this will keep you glued to your headset! However - you’ll be loving every minute of it as well!
Right from the very beginning I was charmed by the young beloved daughter of the Eldon’s - a very sprightly bright-haired pixie who in spite of her size was ready to do battle with her captors in order to protect her younger siblings. Now as a young woman, her childhood beauty was totally realized. Storm also knew that given the opportunity, her evil step-mother would never pay a ransom for her return, hoping instead that Storm would be ravaged and sent back and then she could be forced to marry Sir Hugh. Comprehending her precarious situation, Storm knew that she might very well be used and ravished by her captors - one of which she wouldn’t really be too adverse to succumbing to. However, would he use and abuse her only to send her back, or would there be a future for her in the Scottish MacLagan clan.
Basically Ms. Howell created a fast-action, sensually charged and fully tempestuous Scottish romance which I truly enjoyed. Howell’s character development was spot on for the good guys and was quite fervently felt for the evilness and actions of both Storm’s step-mother and her cohorts.
Bottom line: This is a classic Scottish romance that pulls out all the stops and is simply classic Hannah Howell! Long may she write!
Marilyn Rondeau, for www.ck2skwipsandkritiques.com
Ten years later Storm once again finds herself in desperate straits. With her father off fighting another war, her step-mother was trying to force her into a marriage with Sir Hugh, one of her step-mothers lovers in order to gain control over Storm’s inheritance. In an attempt find solace Storm set out alone, followed and was about to be raped by Sir Hugh in order to force her into marriage. However, Tavis Maclagan and his clan members were out on a raid and saved her from that fate. Storm was captured again and she couldn’t help but notice by one very handsome Highland captor.
*** I loved every single moment of this divine audio book and especially by the performance of MacNab Ashford who brought all of these characters to vivid life! Other than a warning that you may find yourself using more gas than you want because of not wanting to shut off the audio in your car - this will keep you glued to your headset! However - you’ll be loving every minute of it as well!
Right from the very beginning I was charmed by the young beloved daughter of the Eldon’s - a very sprightly bright-haired pixie who in spite of her size was ready to do battle with her captors in order to protect her younger siblings. Now as a young woman, her childhood beauty was totally realized. Storm also knew that given the opportunity, her evil step-mother would never pay a ransom for her return, hoping instead that Storm would be ravaged and sent back and then she could be forced to marry Sir Hugh. Comprehending her precarious situation, Storm knew that she might very well be used and ravished by her captors - one of which she wouldn’t really be too adverse to succumbing to. However, would he use and abuse her only to send her back, or would there be a future for her in the Scottish MacLagan clan.
Basically Ms. Howell created a fast-action, sensually charged and fully tempestuous Scottish romance which I truly enjoyed. Howell’s character development was spot on for the good guys and was quite fervently felt for the evilness and actions of both Storm’s step-mother and her cohorts.
Bottom line: This is a classic Scottish romance that pulls out all the stops and is simply classic Hannah Howell! Long may she write!
Marilyn Rondeau, for www.ck2skwipsandkritiques.com
August 11, 2016
Highly enjoyed
Storm Eldon was always wee spitfire, upon capture due to neglect of her stepmom while her father was in battle with the Scots she shows her witty and strong side to her captors seven heals the lairds arm . so his eldest soon decides in 7 years he will be seeing that mass again
Seven years later Ian sees that same spitfire giving her unwanted suitor a lash oif her tongue upon helping her he abducts her and decides he will use her but he refuses to admit his feelings for the lass as the table turns will his hardheqdness make him loose all
I loved this story it funny and Lady Storm is hilarious with her sharp tongue and the battle between two stubborn people are unleashed its a matter if who has won the fight a+
Storm Eldon was always wee spitfire, upon capture due to neglect of her stepmom while her father was in battle with the Scots she shows her witty and strong side to her captors seven heals the lairds arm . so his eldest soon decides in 7 years he will be seeing that mass again
Seven years later Ian sees that same spitfire giving her unwanted suitor a lash oif her tongue upon helping her he abducts her and decides he will use her but he refuses to admit his feelings for the lass as the table turns will his hardheqdness make him loose all
I loved this story it funny and Lady Storm is hilarious with her sharp tongue and the battle between two stubborn people are unleashed its a matter if who has won the fight a+
November 26, 2016
This historical novel has a fairly typical plot line with the exception that the characters have plenty of time to come to know each other and to fall in love. The plot was interesting and had enough villains to keep it moving forward. The only problem I had with it may have been partially an issue with the eBook version. The book tended to run together and I had trouble following it. This could be because the eBook did not have the double space breaks that a normal print book would have to let you know that the scene had changed. The writing in places was just hard to follow as well. So a 3 star rating in that I liked it, but it was not a favorite or one that I would want to read again. It is good enough to want to read the next in the series.
July 5, 2009
I picked this book up planning to enjoy a little "fluff". Instead I found it surprisingly complex and riveting. I ended up re-reading many parts trying to get to the center of the emotions, and ended up concluding the story was rich with feeling but it was too often portrayed as lust and too seldom love.
September 9, 2013
This is my first Hannah Howell read. My library is swamped with them, so I decided to give it a try. Alas, this will also be my last Hannah Howell read.
This historical romance was kind of like being beat in the head with a rock. Instead of allowing readers to define characters by their actions, the author states them outright, and none are unique or particularly witty. Ugh.
This historical romance was kind of like being beat in the head with a rock. Instead of allowing readers to define characters by their actions, the author states them outright, and none are unique or particularly witty. Ugh.
January 17, 2017
This book was meh, i don't why I did not like this book as much, most probably 'cause the H. I did not like him especially the last few chapters. He let the h go without a word,a fight, no spine. H not strong as h is. I gave four stars because of the first chapter, h was badass!! Didn't finish the book, i stopped till the birth ofthe twins thats it.
August 1, 2012
I loved this book! The way Tavis and Storm fought was hilarious and added spice. It's nice to see a very strong heroine in a Scottish romance. Storm is a capable, intelligent woman who knows her mind and makes sure everyone around her does as well!
April 22, 2018
It went on and on. I didn’t like it which is unusual for me with this author.
July 7, 2019
Fair warning - this book was written in 1988 and it shows.
November 26, 2023
First of all, the author made a huge mistake with the hinting of a 19-year-old looking at a 10-year-old in such a manner that he thinks oh, he’ll have to visit when she’s older? Not a good idea to have hint of pedophilia in your book for the H.
Then, later, the same man now 26, pressures the now 17-year-old into having sex with him, but he’s supposed to be better than the common rapist of the time? She said no, she did not want it, yet he continued to pressure her and tell her it’s inevitable, so just give in. Coercion is also sexual assault. What was this author thinking in making him the H of the book? Early on there’s thorough disgust. Author needs to pull this book, and do a rewrite of this beginning. It tainted the H for the rest of the book.
Can’t say it gets better, Tavis is a completely deplorable H. Even later calls the h out her name after he’s the one who is totally in the wrong. The h is written to be strong, sassy, astute, then is turned into spineless. She’s treated horrible by Tavis and dismissed it all. Excused it away.
Did a lot of skimming and skipping to get through this book to the end just to see how things went.
Storm was taken by the man who wants to marry her for her fortune, beat savagely due to her continued refuse to marry him, the Scots go back and get her, and she doesn’t tell that it was Tavis‘ former mistress, who provided the enemy with information for them to be able to come to take her? She gave away the Scot’s information to the enemy, why was she not brought and punished as would happen back in that day? They had suspected it would be her, why wasn’t it told by Storm? Didn’t make sense. Stuff happens, Storm’s status changes, it’s never revealed and never realised by a man who intimately knows he body? Unrealistic. Storm ends up leaving with not a bit of tried intervention by Tavis, he doesn’t try at all, then later she’s back and Tavis is caught with his former lover, the same he was with before Storm, who orchestrated Storm’s abduction, the same that was known had to have a hand in it. (Eye roll here, how droll and cliched, sign of unimaginative writing).
Tavis is captured by the enemy due to his own stupidity, Sholto, one of his brothers, makes a move on Storm and she repeatedly says no and he’s all your body says yes and intends to take her against her protests until she says she loves Tavis and later thinks how he had stopped himself from making love to her?! What? Rape is not making love, can’t believe he’s that delusional. And the other (brother) is also wanting her? So both his brothers are untrustworthy and have no honor, yet they’re supposedly a close knit family who have each other’s back? Doesn’t sound it. Sholto confesses and all Tavis said is all’s alright since Sholto didn’t actually take her? Never mind he tried? Really?
Storm leaves again and Tavis again does nothing, just lets other tell him to leave it until after an event he should be there for?! Because she shouldn’t be stressed? When her father spent the entire time stressing her beforehand? There could have been slight redemption if he had shown up. He’s asked to wait a month after his children are born, so why are they 3 months before he shows up? Ridiculous. Oh just leave her in her hurt and anger so that it festers, yes, that’s the way to go. Asinine is what it is. He comes and all is forgiven within an hour and then the end.
Then, later, the same man now 26, pressures the now 17-year-old into having sex with him, but he’s supposed to be better than the common rapist of the time? She said no, she did not want it, yet he continued to pressure her and tell her it’s inevitable, so just give in. Coercion is also sexual assault. What was this author thinking in making him the H of the book? Early on there’s thorough disgust. Author needs to pull this book, and do a rewrite of this beginning. It tainted the H for the rest of the book.
Can’t say it gets better, Tavis is a completely deplorable H. Even later calls the h out her name after he’s the one who is totally in the wrong. The h is written to be strong, sassy, astute, then is turned into spineless. She’s treated horrible by Tavis and dismissed it all. Excused it away.
Did a lot of skimming and skipping to get through this book to the end just to see how things went.
Storm was taken by the man who wants to marry her for her fortune, beat savagely due to her continued refuse to marry him, the Scots go back and get her, and she doesn’t tell that it was Tavis‘ former mistress, who provided the enemy with information for them to be able to come to take her? She gave away the Scot’s information to the enemy, why was she not brought and punished as would happen back in that day? They had suspected it would be her, why wasn’t it told by Storm? Didn’t make sense. Stuff happens, Storm’s status changes, it’s never revealed and never realised by a man who intimately knows he body? Unrealistic. Storm ends up leaving with not a bit of tried intervention by Tavis, he doesn’t try at all, then later she’s back and Tavis is caught with his former lover, the same he was with before Storm, who orchestrated Storm’s abduction, the same that was known had to have a hand in it. (Eye roll here, how droll and cliched, sign of unimaginative writing).
Tavis is captured by the enemy due to his own stupidity, Sholto, one of his brothers, makes a move on Storm and she repeatedly says no and he’s all your body says yes and intends to take her against her protests until she says she loves Tavis and later thinks how he had stopped himself from making love to her?! What? Rape is not making love, can’t believe he’s that delusional. And the other (brother) is also wanting her? So both his brothers are untrustworthy and have no honor, yet they’re supposedly a close knit family who have each other’s back? Doesn’t sound it. Sholto confesses and all Tavis said is all’s alright since Sholto didn’t actually take her? Never mind he tried? Really?
Storm leaves again and Tavis again does nothing, just lets other tell him to leave it until after an event he should be there for?! Because she shouldn’t be stressed? When her father spent the entire time stressing her beforehand? There could have been slight redemption if he had shown up. He’s asked to wait a month after his children are born, so why are they 3 months before he shows up? Ridiculous. Oh just leave her in her hurt and anger so that it festers, yes, that’s the way to go. Asinine is what it is. He comes and all is forgiven within an hour and then the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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