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Sheep Are Simply Less Trouble Than Scotsmen
Kittie always hoped she'd marry for love. But her father had other plans...
It is 1794, and Scotland is in turmoil. Almost fifty years after the battle of Culloden and subsequent decimation of the clans, new landowners are mercilessly clearing their tenants to make way for more lucrative sheep.
Married off to a debaucherous Duke twice her age and thrust into the wilds of Scotland, Kittie enjoys a comfortable though passionless life. Yet she's a valuable pawn in a dangerous game of power and greed.
Abruptly torn from her home by a band of Highlanders determined to preserve their way of life at all costs, Kittie must navigate desolate captivity while struggling against a growing attraction towards her enigmatic captor, Moehill. Passionate, handsome, and tender, he's nothing like the Scotsmen her husband always warned her about. But she's a bargaining chip in a game she hardly understands and falling for him would be a very bad idea...
He'll stop at nothing to protect his clan. She'll stop at nothing to escape.
As passions ignite and her husband's arrogance casts a dark shadow over negotiations, Kittie must weave the treacherous paths of loyalty, betrayal, and forbidden attraction – but at what cost?
A captivating work of historical fiction that will keep you riveted until the very last page.
It is 1794, and Scotland is in turmoil. Almost fifty years after the battle of Culloden and subsequent decimation of the clans, new landowners are mercilessly clearing their tenants to make way for more lucrative sheep.
Married off to a debaucherous Duke twice her age and thrust into the wilds of Scotland, Kittie enjoys a comfortable though passionless life. Yet she's a valuable pawn in a dangerous game of power and greed.
Abruptly torn from her home by a band of Highlanders determined to preserve their way of life at all costs, Kittie must navigate desolate captivity while struggling against a growing attraction towards her enigmatic captor, Moehill. Passionate, handsome, and tender, he's nothing like the Scotsmen her husband always warned her about. But she's a bargaining chip in a game she hardly understands and falling for him would be a very bad idea...
He'll stop at nothing to protect his clan. She'll stop at nothing to escape.
As passions ignite and her husband's arrogance casts a dark shadow over negotiations, Kittie must weave the treacherous paths of loyalty, betrayal, and forbidden attraction – but at what cost?
A captivating work of historical fiction that will keep you riveted until the very last page.
256 pages, Paperback
Published November 4, 2023
8 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
April 16, 2025
3.5 stars.
My friend sent me this book from Australia, and of course, I loved the title. I finally sat down to read it, and I'm so glad I did. I really enjoyed reading this book and I was in to the story. I especially loved William. But I didn't love the book. This could be (and I realize unfair to say) that it's because I read all of the Outlander books, and I just felt like it was a better written story and cast of characters. This was also roughly the same time period as the later books. And unfortunately, I kept comparing Kitty to Claire and Alasdair (Moehill) to Jaime. There really was no comparison. There connecction was kind of blah and I didn't really buy it. And I think this is why I liked William the best, because he reminded me more of Jaime. Plus, Kitty was all over the place. The sex was kind of weirdly written. The ending was rushed, but it could set up for a sequel.
But overall, I did really enjoy the book. I would definitely read from this author again. I just thought it was a bit slow, because I probably should have finished this sooner than I did. And I wished she built their romance better.
My friend sent me this book from Australia, and of course, I loved the title. I finally sat down to read it, and I'm so glad I did. I really enjoyed reading this book and I was in to the story. I especially loved William. But I didn't love the book. This could be (and I realize unfair to say) that it's because I read all of the Outlander books, and I just felt like it was a better written story and cast of characters. This was also roughly the same time period as the later books. And unfortunately, I kept comparing Kitty to Claire and Alasdair (Moehill) to Jaime. There really was no comparison. There connecction was kind of blah and I didn't really buy it. And I think this is why I liked William the best, because he reminded me more of Jaime. Plus, Kitty was all over the place. The sex was kind of weirdly written. The ending was rushed, but it could set up for a sequel.
But overall, I did really enjoy the book. I would definitely read from this author again. I just thought it was a bit slow, because I probably should have finished this sooner than I did. And I wished she built their romance better.
November 3, 2023
For a first endeavor this novel is admirable. While slightly tainted and in awe of Ms. Gabaldon's Outlander series, I mostly enjoyed this novel. It is a much better book than others in recent years revealing the Highlander life post Culloden, linked with a lovely romance.
Lisa Brookhouse had some prosaic, flowery writing, adept dialogues and narratives, with lovely descriptions, especially for the landscape and weather of Scotland. The Highlander dialogues were amusing, in part with their innate sagacity, cheekiness, and droll wit. As an Outlander reader, we've become knowledgeable in some of the Gaelic, and Ms. Brookhouse kept us entertained and helped to spread the language. Most of the Scotsmen were well-described, indicative of their natures, familial relationships, and attributes. And what is not to like about 'Moehill' and his jocular cousins?
The narrative and plot is a classic Stockholm Syndrome, affecting the Duchess, a silly, naive, ornamental fandangle, and the reader. We feel not only concern and pity for the Scottish highlands and it's people but soon for this young woman, too. She is a prisoner in her sad marriage. Her husband, the Duke, is an unimportant fop, selfish and concerned only for his pocket and pleasures. We, the readers might question Duke Dudley's choices including not helping to find his wife! He has only dislike for anyone beneath him and no pity for the displacement of ancestral Scottish highlands tenants upon the land that he has obtained.
Brookhouse does a decent job letting the reader fall into like with the people of the land, and despising the high-handed and cruel treatment by the British aristocracy and governments.
I had a couple of peevish comp!aints; some terms (words) were misused or misspelled. These I noted in comments, and perhaps can be modified before the final. I questioned some words considering if it was a British usage, but these did not seem to be the case.
The ending left me with ennui, and hopeful that the situation and characters got a better deal. But not everyone and everything can be perfect. This is not the magical kingdom of Oz or a fairy tale. Even there, nothing is perfect! Oh well, I still found the book a good effort and worth my time.
I received this novel as a free ARC for an honest voluntary review.
October 30, 2023
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Every now and then I’ll pick myself a surprise book where I don’t read anything about it beforehand, not even the plot. All I knew about this going in is that it was tagged Scottish romance – which I’m 100% here for. This book was sooo not what I was expecting, nor what I’m used to. But I kind of loved that. The research done by this author was apparent as FACTS were dropped showing the devastating impact of the Scottish clearances in the late 18th century.
This was a slow burn in the best of ways. Spoiled duchess, Kittie, is kidnapped by the Scottish tenants on her husband’s estate and ends up being held hostage by the taciturn, but competent and kind, Moehill. I had thoughts about the undeniable allure of being held “hostage” in a quaint stone cottage in the middle of a field of wildflowers in the highlands..
But this book has me STRESSED Also, what I REALLY MISSED was that we didn’t get anything from Moehill’s POV. That was a loss to me.. what I would have given for a peek inside his head! Also, the title implies that this will be a light romp and it’s anything but. It was well written and it made me FEEL with equal parts exasperation, poignancy, and ANGST – I will definitely read more from this author.
After finishing this book
Every now and then I’ll pick myself a surprise book where I don’t read anything about it beforehand, not even the plot. All I knew about this going in is that it was tagged Scottish romance – which I’m 100% here for. This book was sooo not what I was expecting, nor what I’m used to. But I kind of loved that. The research done by this author was apparent as FACTS were dropped showing the devastating impact of the Scottish clearances in the late 18th century.
This was a slow burn in the best of ways. Spoiled duchess, Kittie, is kidnapped by the Scottish tenants on her husband’s estate and ends up being held hostage by the taciturn, but competent and kind, Moehill. I had thoughts about the undeniable allure of being held “hostage” in a quaint stone cottage in the middle of a field of wildflowers in the highlands..
But this book has me STRESSED Also, what I REALLY MISSED was that we didn’t get anything from Moehill’s POV. That was a loss to me.. what I would have given for a peek inside his head! Also, the title implies that this will be a light romp and it’s anything but. It was well written and it made me FEEL with equal parts exasperation, poignancy, and ANGST – I will definitely read more from this author.
After finishing this book
November 2, 2023
I received an ARC of this book with thanks and freely provide an honest review.
I like that it's a new Australian author and the setting is in the Scottish Highlands during the clearances of the late 18th century. The descriptions of Highland geography, culture and customs of the time are accurate and excellent. They are not overdone, but provide good context, whether or not the reader knows the geography and the history. The weather is so well described, it's like being there. I enjoyed the use of Scots language as well as the Gaidhlig, and how they are woven into the story. The play on the word 'Moehill' is fun and cute.
I like the structure of the book, especially the titles of each chapter and how there is a purpose for each title that manifests itself to the reader. The book cover is of a beautiful location that is well captured. The book is well edited, although it would have been more realistic to have the UK spelling eg for 'colour', rather than the American spelling, which wasn't introduced until at least 1828. I found this jarring because it was so obvious, especially for UK/Australian readers. I was relieved to see the correct spelling of 'whisky'!
The female protagonist is a little different than expected, and at first appeared trite and superficial, but she shows intelligence and the ability to adapt once her eyes are opened and she learns what's important in life. The cousins are feisty, braw, stubborn and strong, as expected. But they also adapt throughout the book and learn to work with someone outside their clan. It's good to see the recognition of a difficult time in Scottish history with elaboration about the impact at a personal level.
It's an interesting ending, different than expected, and while not entirely 'Happily Ever After', is not necessarily sad, and leaves the door open for a sequel. I enjoyed the book very much and found it easy to read. I'd be happy to read another book by the author in the future.
I like that it's a new Australian author and the setting is in the Scottish Highlands during the clearances of the late 18th century. The descriptions of Highland geography, culture and customs of the time are accurate and excellent. They are not overdone, but provide good context, whether or not the reader knows the geography and the history. The weather is so well described, it's like being there. I enjoyed the use of Scots language as well as the Gaidhlig, and how they are woven into the story. The play on the word 'Moehill' is fun and cute.
I like the structure of the book, especially the titles of each chapter and how there is a purpose for each title that manifests itself to the reader. The book cover is of a beautiful location that is well captured. The book is well edited, although it would have been more realistic to have the UK spelling eg for 'colour', rather than the American spelling, which wasn't introduced until at least 1828. I found this jarring because it was so obvious, especially for UK/Australian readers. I was relieved to see the correct spelling of 'whisky'!
The female protagonist is a little different than expected, and at first appeared trite and superficial, but she shows intelligence and the ability to adapt once her eyes are opened and she learns what's important in life. The cousins are feisty, braw, stubborn and strong, as expected. But they also adapt throughout the book and learn to work with someone outside their clan. It's good to see the recognition of a difficult time in Scottish history with elaboration about the impact at a personal level.
It's an interesting ending, different than expected, and while not entirely 'Happily Ever After', is not necessarily sad, and leaves the door open for a sequel. I enjoyed the book very much and found it easy to read. I'd be happy to read another book by the author in the future.
October 1, 2024
I struggled to even finish this book. The plot is boring and it's obvious that Brookhouse has never been to Scotland. Or even looked at a map.
Many of the mentioned places, if they're even mentioned (it's incredibly vague) aren't in the right place. Bristol is not next to Cornwall, in fact, it's nowhere near Cornwall.
"The sight pierced her heart with a sudden pang, reminding her of her old home–of Bristol, close to Cornwall. She recalled the scent of Cornish curlew pie..."
Bristols would not have eaten Cornish food. Because they're nowhere near Cornwall. And they wouldn't have called it Cornish food either since that's a modern term. What did they do? Do they just say 'oh no, I ran out of Cornish food; I'll just pop next door to Cornwall'? That's ridiculous. Please look at a map.
Yes, this is only a small portion from the beginning of the book, but it was more memorable than the actual plot, and it's what stuck with me the entire time. I should have just dnfed at that point.
The plot was boring and the romance even more so. After being kidnapped, Kittie tries to seduce her captor and forces herself on him constantly. He doesn't want what she's giving but he also doesn't say no, so of course that's okay, right? No. That's not the romance I wanted to read.
It's hardly more historical fiction than those cheap bodice-rippers but with less spice.
Many of the mentioned places, if they're even mentioned (it's incredibly vague) aren't in the right place. Bristol is not next to Cornwall, in fact, it's nowhere near Cornwall.
"The sight pierced her heart with a sudden pang, reminding her of her old home–of Bristol, close to Cornwall. She recalled the scent of Cornish curlew pie..."
Bristols would not have eaten Cornish food. Because they're nowhere near Cornwall. And they wouldn't have called it Cornish food either since that's a modern term. What did they do? Do they just say 'oh no, I ran out of Cornish food; I'll just pop next door to Cornwall'? That's ridiculous. Please look at a map.
Yes, this is only a small portion from the beginning of the book, but it was more memorable than the actual plot, and it's what stuck with me the entire time. I should have just dnfed at that point.
The plot was boring and the romance even more so. After being kidnapped, Kittie tries to seduce her captor and forces herself on him constantly. He doesn't want what she's giving but he also doesn't say no, so of course that's okay, right? No. That's not the romance I wanted to read.
It's hardly more historical fiction than those cheap bodice-rippers but with less spice.
November 8, 2023
Sheep are simply less trouble than Scotsmen is a romantic historical fiction set in the 18th century Scottish Highlands by Lisa Brookhouse.
The author has taken real care with the historical details and the descriptions of the landscape, people and surroundings left me feeling like I was there.
The story follows main character Kittie through her privileged married life into the Highlands through kidnapping, where she is forced to confront everything she knows and believes. A handsome & strong captor Moehill poses threat to her existence as desire and passion ignite.
This book will take you on a journey. The vivid descriptions made for a captivating read, a real page turner that kept me guessing up to the very last page!
I am excited to read more from this author.
The author has taken real care with the historical details and the descriptions of the landscape, people and surroundings left me feeling like I was there.
The story follows main character Kittie through her privileged married life into the Highlands through kidnapping, where she is forced to confront everything she knows and believes. A handsome & strong captor Moehill poses threat to her existence as desire and passion ignite.
This book will take you on a journey. The vivid descriptions made for a captivating read, a real page turner that kept me guessing up to the very last page!
I am excited to read more from this author.
March 25, 2024
Great title for a book and also loved the chapter titles as well.
The author has a lovely descriptive style which blends the historical and romance genres together beautifully. The Scottish/English dialogue throughout the book created an authentic touch, anyone who has read Outlander won't have a problem with the Scottish slang and will enjoy this book. There is a small amount of Scots Gaelic but the author has kindly included interpretations for us. The sex scenes were raunchy but tastefully done.
Sheep are simply less trouble than Scotsmen is a thoroughly enjoyable read with a good amount of action, romance and historical references to keep you turning the page.
I look forward to reading the next in the series, 'Beyond The Rough Bounds'.
The author has a lovely descriptive style which blends the historical and romance genres together beautifully. The Scottish/English dialogue throughout the book created an authentic touch, anyone who has read Outlander won't have a problem with the Scottish slang and will enjoy this book. There is a small amount of Scots Gaelic but the author has kindly included interpretations for us. The sex scenes were raunchy but tastefully done.
Sheep are simply less trouble than Scotsmen is a thoroughly enjoyable read with a good amount of action, romance and historical references to keep you turning the page.
I look forward to reading the next in the series, 'Beyond The Rough Bounds'.
October 26, 2023
I loved this book! Lisa's first book is a wonderful and unusual story from 18th century Scotland during the Highland Clearances. Told from the point of view of a spoiled Duchess, wife to the Duke and landowner clearing people from his lands. There is love, sadness, beauty and a clear understanding for the lives and plight of the people. It took me a while to get into it but when I did, I couldn't put it down. I highly recommend this and look forward to reading more from Lisa. I received an advance copy of this book and this is an honest review.
November 13, 2023
I adored this beautiful debut novel by Lisa Brookhouse. It was easy to fall into the beautiful Scottish setting, she describes it so well and I found the story refreshing and the relationship development between the two main characters exhilarating! The dialogue throughout was entertaining and realistic and I loved learning more about Scottish history and culture. I found myself at the end of the story, but not wanting it to end and am so happy to learn there's a sequel! I was completely swept up in the world of Kittie and Moehill!
November 12, 2023
I will start with saying that the title of this book is just awesome! First thing that made me grab the book.
Sadly the story is kind of boring. For the first 50% not much is happening, in the plot and in the romance department. And romance itself is not very believable. I like to feel the connection between the characters and here I just didn't feel it. Not enough build up.
It was an ok story.
Sadly the story is kind of boring. For the first 50% not much is happening, in the plot and in the romance department. And romance itself is not very believable. I like to feel the connection between the characters and here I just didn't feel it. Not enough build up.
It was an ok story.
January 31, 2025
I really enjoyed this. It was beautifully written. I purchased this book from Lisa at Eumundi markets and you can tell that this book was written with so much love and for the fun of it. I enjoyed how Kitties character evolved, the plot twist on the last page(!!!!!!), the saucy parts with some prisoner role play (!!!) the sense of community and the Scottish dialogue. Definitely would recommend and will pass this onto another to read!
Thank you Lisa!
Thank you Lisa!
November 13, 2023
The struggles between what’s known and what you really want can be a big fight. However getting what you deserve in the end can be worth all the aches in .the end. This book captures a lot of mind bulging experience and gives a glimpse into what life in Scotland would have been like in the 16th century.
February 14, 2024
I adored this book. Just what I needed while relaxing on sabbatical. I have Scottish heritage so it really touched my heart. Amazing descriptions of the highlands and scenes that touched my soul and made me laugh out loud … so excited to see what Lisa does next.
July 8, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I felt like I was actually there and experiencing what was happening. Loved the banter and beautiful descriptions of the landscape. Also great to learn about what happened in those times. Can’t wait for the sequel. Alannah McLellan
October 24, 2023
Received an ARC of this book. Enjoyed the characters, the story line the laughter and the tears.
The Scottish highlands. A beautiful wild country with romance. A great read.
The Scottish highlands. A beautiful wild country with romance. A great read.
October 28, 2023
This book was a wonderful mix of history and romance. I enjoyed the storyline and the characters. Once I got into the book, I couldn't put it down.
October 30, 2023
A fabulous read from the very beginning. When do I get the sequel?
November 1, 2023
Received an ARC of this book . Loved this book , the characters and story line kept me hooked I couldn’t put it down.
April 4, 2024
fabulous
I read this in 1 day. It was really good. Such a story teller you are. Love the Scottish history in the Scottish ways
I read this in 1 day. It was really good. Such a story teller you are. Love the Scottish history in the Scottish ways
July 28, 2024
It was a slow burn but I really enjoyed it. I did meet the author Lisa so it made the book a little more personal to read. Great writing too. Now I need to read the sequel!
April 30, 2025
Great read. Loved the two main characters. Learned a few Gaelic sayings I might use. Couldn't put it down and can't wait for the sequel.
August 2, 2025
Enjoyed reading this book over two days.
October 1, 2025
I enjoyed this story and let it take me where the author wanted me to go.
May 11, 2025
Beautifully written historical romance, by a fellow local in Sunshine Coast! 🫶
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews