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Duncurra #2
Highland Courage
Plain in comparison to her siblings and extremely reserved, Mairead has been called “MacKenzie’s Mouse” since she was a child. No one knows the reason for her timidity and she would just as soon keep it that way. When her parents arrange a betrothal to Laird Tadhg Matheson she is horrified. She only sees one way to prevent an old secret from becoming a new scandal.
Tadhg Matheson admires and respects the MacKenzies. While an alliance with them through marriage to Mairead would be in his clan’s best interest, he knows Laird MacKenzie seeks a closer alliance with another clan. When Tadhg learns of her terrible shyness and her youngest brother’s fears about her, Tadhg offers for her anyway.
Secrets always have a way of revealing themselves. With Tadhg’s unconditional love, can Mairead find the strength and courage she needs to handle the consequences when they do?
Tadhg Matheson admires and respects the MacKenzies. While an alliance with them through marriage to Mairead would be in his clan’s best interest, he knows Laird MacKenzie seeks a closer alliance with another clan. When Tadhg learns of her terrible shyness and her youngest brother’s fears about her, Tadhg offers for her anyway.
Secrets always have a way of revealing themselves. With Tadhg’s unconditional love, can Mairead find the strength and courage she needs to handle the consequences when they do?
231 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 3, 2014
387 people are currently reading
808 people want to read
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February 1, 2014
This book "Highland Courage" by Ceci Giltenan is another winner as much as I loved "Highland Solution" I think I love this one even more. Plus this book tangled a sensitive subject close to my heart. Also this book brings back Laird Tadhg Matheson from Highland Solution, the nice laird that had abducted Catherine and was being blamed for things his clan did not do. I always remembered a line in the book where Tadhg tells Niall he just wants a sweet and biddable wife after seeing what a handful Catherine was! I believe Niall snickered or did an eye roll at that comment if I remember correctly. Hmm, I wonder if Laird Tadhg Matheson will get one this time?
I recommend you read Highland Solution first the debut book of this series as there are characters from Solution that make appearances in Highland Courage plus I think readers will have a better understanding of the type of man Tadhg Matheson our hero really is. Of course you can also read this book alone as well it's a personal choice I find it it more complete and fun to read books that are connected in series order.
Mairead Mackenzie is the heroine in this book, but yes she has issues like being afraid to leave her home and being around people. Seven years ago at a fair where she was to watch her young brother, but as a game he hid from her. As little lads will be little lads she tries to find him, but something horrific happens to 14 year old Mairead and since then she has never been the same! Mairead has never shared this dark shameful secret with anyone but a priest who also was a witness to this horrid event in her past.Mairead's parents have no idea what happened to their daughter all those years ago which made their daughters personality and outlook on life change so drastically. They have let her live this life of solitude for a very long time, but her father Cathal Mackenzie thinks it high time she get married and have bairns of her own and makes an alliance with a nearby clan.
Mairead's brother is now a squire for "Laird Tadhg Matheson"and only wants his sister to be happy and does some match making of his own, as he is not happy with their father Cathal's choice and tells Tadgh not realizing Tadgh had his eye on his sister already. Thinking it's just shyness thinking Mairead is the perfect biddable wife! Of course Cathal realizes Tadgh is an even better alliance to side with as the betrothal and marriage contracts are not signed with the previous arrangement, yet he still luckily has an out and agrees to this.
Of course a marriage to any man has Mairead terrified! Even if she did have a crush on Tadgh for years and recognizes the good and honorable man he is, plus she decides he won't want her once he finds out the truth about her and will break off the betrothal agreement. It must be done she decides she must tell him the truth from all those years ago which will be the hardest thing she has ever had to do being her most darkest horrifying shameful secret and as introverted she is and uncomfortable around people it won't be easy for her. To put it mildly she is not looking forward to this conversation, but feels it's the only way and also feels Tadhg should know the truth and be free of her. Of course with her low self esteem she feels he is way too good for her soiled self as well.
Now what will this honorable man do kick her to the curb or realize what happened all these years ago was not her fault, but was the buggers who abused her all those years ago!
This book is actually about Mairead and how she finds the strength and courage to stick up for herself and not blame herself for the violent actions of others and finds courage and how she starts believe in herself with help. This story was so touching and yes it will pull at your heart strings too. I absolutely loved this story and I know anyone who reads this that has a heart will love it too.
Again Ceci Giltenan weaves a beautifully written and touching story and this is only her second book she has written and yet she writes like a pro who has been doing it for years!
Yes Ms. Giltenan blows me away once again with this type of fabulous writing and had me captivated from the very start until the last word of the last chapter. I look forward to the next and future books in this series as Ceci Giltenan has reeled me in and has me totally hooked!!!
Note* A woman is abused every three minutes on our planet earth which is a so sad and horrific, but remember if you are ever in the situation scream, run if possible and there are people that will help you at National Sexual Assault Hotline and Crisis Center- 1.800.656.HOPE or look up online at rain.org which is anonymous and connected to trained professionals at a crisis center in your area. It's so unfortunate in centuries past they didn't have this type of help as they do now thank goodness! God Bless! ~B
I recommend you read Highland Solution first the debut book of this series as there are characters from Solution that make appearances in Highland Courage plus I think readers will have a better understanding of the type of man Tadhg Matheson our hero really is. Of course you can also read this book alone as well it's a personal choice I find it it more complete and fun to read books that are connected in series order.
Mairead Mackenzie is the heroine in this book, but yes she has issues like being afraid to leave her home and being around people. Seven years ago at a fair where she was to watch her young brother, but as a game he hid from her. As little lads will be little lads she tries to find him, but something horrific happens to 14 year old Mairead and since then she has never been the same! Mairead has never shared this dark shameful secret with anyone but a priest who also was a witness to this horrid event in her past.Mairead's parents have no idea what happened to their daughter all those years ago which made their daughters personality and outlook on life change so drastically. They have let her live this life of solitude for a very long time, but her father Cathal Mackenzie thinks it high time she get married and have bairns of her own and makes an alliance with a nearby clan.
Mairead's brother is now a squire for "Laird Tadhg Matheson"and only wants his sister to be happy and does some match making of his own, as he is not happy with their father Cathal's choice and tells Tadgh not realizing Tadgh had his eye on his sister already. Thinking it's just shyness thinking Mairead is the perfect biddable wife! Of course Cathal realizes Tadgh is an even better alliance to side with as the betrothal and marriage contracts are not signed with the previous arrangement, yet he still luckily has an out and agrees to this.
Of course a marriage to any man has Mairead terrified! Even if she did have a crush on Tadgh for years and recognizes the good and honorable man he is, plus she decides he won't want her once he finds out the truth about her and will break off the betrothal agreement. It must be done she decides she must tell him the truth from all those years ago which will be the hardest thing she has ever had to do being her most darkest horrifying shameful secret and as introverted she is and uncomfortable around people it won't be easy for her. To put it mildly she is not looking forward to this conversation, but feels it's the only way and also feels Tadhg should know the truth and be free of her. Of course with her low self esteem she feels he is way too good for her soiled self as well.
Now what will this honorable man do kick her to the curb or realize what happened all these years ago was not her fault, but was the buggers who abused her all those years ago!
This book is actually about Mairead and how she finds the strength and courage to stick up for herself and not blame herself for the violent actions of others and finds courage and how she starts believe in herself with help. This story was so touching and yes it will pull at your heart strings too. I absolutely loved this story and I know anyone who reads this that has a heart will love it too.
Again Ceci Giltenan weaves a beautifully written and touching story and this is only her second book she has written and yet she writes like a pro who has been doing it for years!
Yes Ms. Giltenan blows me away once again with this type of fabulous writing and had me captivated from the very start until the last word of the last chapter. I look forward to the next and future books in this series as Ceci Giltenan has reeled me in and has me totally hooked!!!
Note* A woman is abused every three minutes on our planet earth which is a so sad and horrific, but remember if you are ever in the situation scream, run if possible and there are people that will help you at National Sexual Assault Hotline and Crisis Center- 1.800.656.HOPE or look up online at rain.org which is anonymous and connected to trained professionals at a crisis center in your area. It's so unfortunate in centuries past they didn't have this type of help as they do now thank goodness! God Bless! ~B
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December 16, 2017DNF at 18%. The premise of the story is that she was raped at 14 and for the last 10 years, has refused to leave home. When her father tells her she is to marry, she is completely terrified. Somehow the act of telling her bridegroom what happens makes it all better and she is able to be intimate with him. I just didn't buy it.
Glad this was a KU freebie.
Glad this was a KU freebie.
May 24, 2017
Whenever I am in a book slump, I either read a PNR/UF or Historical Romance book. This time I decided on reading Highland Courage, I am glad I did because it really helped me. What I liked most about this book were the main characters, they both had such a great personality. I loved how Mairead transformed from a very timid, and scared young lady to a strong and courageous woman. Tadhg was not your typical historical romance male character, he was so understanding and supportive of Mairead. I loved how he helped her get over her fears and insecurities. These two were a perfect match, and I loved that the author didn't add any unnecessary drama to the story. I also loved that there was a bit of a suspense/mystery aspect to the story, which was created and carried out perfectly.
February 2, 2019
3.5 stars.
It was good but not great. I expected more from the book. The first book has a strong plotline but failed to build a strong personality for a hero. Whereas the second book plotline was not that strong. The book was based on a rape victim child of 14 years. Concerning the book timing which is the 14th century, I believe it would have been a very strong plotline. But It failed because of the plot holes. And the middle part of the story was a bit dragging for me. But then the last part of the story was very engaging. I liked the hero who has a strong personality and he was very understanding. The character development of the heroine is good. I admit the couples love was too sweet for me and sometimes it feels cliché.
The ending note of the author is very good and she also gives some logical explanation.
It was good but not great. I expected more from the book. The first book has a strong plotline but failed to build a strong personality for a hero. Whereas the second book plotline was not that strong. The book was based on a rape victim child of 14 years. Concerning the book timing which is the 14th century, I believe it would have been a very strong plotline. But It failed because of the plot holes. And the middle part of the story was a bit dragging for me. But then the last part of the story was very engaging. I liked the hero who has a strong personality and he was very understanding. The character development of the heroine is good. I admit the couples love was too sweet for me and sometimes it feels cliché.
The ending note of the author is very good and she also gives some logical explanation.
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April 2, 2014Review to come in upcoming issue of InD'tale Magazine.
www.indtale.com
www.indtale.com
January 4, 2015
Lllooovvveeeeddd this book! It had it all!!!!!!!!
November 26, 2021
Тайг Матисън и Марейд МакКензи
Марейд е наричана Мишката на МакКензи, заради плахото си поведение. Но тя има причина да е такава. Когато на 14 е на панаир заедно с цялото си семейство Марейд излиза скришом с малкият си брат, а когато го губи в тълпата бива нападната от няколко по-големи момчета. Марейд вярва, че след бруталното нападение, където е спасена от един свещеник, тя вече не е девствена. По тази причина вярва, че никога няма да се омъжи, защото ще донесе само срам на семейството си. През всичките години след нападението тя се крие в дома си, ужасена, че може да се сблъска отново с нападателите си и не споделя с никой тайната, която носи от страх баща й да не принуди нападателя й да се ожени за нея. Но сега родителите й са твърдо решени да уредят брака й, и може би ще й се наложи да каже на някой истината за това, което е преживяла преди години.
Когато Тайг е помолен от своят оръженосец да се ожени за сестра му той мисли, че идеята е смехотворна. Макар клана и дома му да имат нужда от господарка, той няма никакво намерение скоро да се жени. Когато обаче оръженосеца му, му разказва историята за това как умишлено се е скрил от сестра си преди години по време на панаир и как от този ден тя се е променила, Тайг започва да преосмисля убежденията й. Оръженосецът му вярва, че сестра му е била нападната в онзи ден и знае, че Марейд има нужда от добър и разбран съпруг, някой който няма да я отведе много далеч от дома, за разлика от годеника, който й е избрал баща им, и който ще откъсне Марейд от дома и семейството й. Тайг решава, че може да помогне на момичето и с това да затвърди връзките си с клана МакКензи, а щом се запознава с Марейд, той разбира, че е направил най-правилният избор, защото тя въплъщава всичко, което някога е търсил в една жена.
Охххх още от предишната книга харесвах Тейг, но тук, той беше просто прекрасен. Най-страхотният, мил, грижовен и разбран герой на света. Той беше опората на Марейд, позволяваше й да разтвори крила без да се бои, че може да падне, даваше й сигурност и свобода, които бяха просто страхотни. Марейд бързо преодоля страха си . Хареса ми колко уверена в себе си стана тя и как малко по малко започна да печели новият си клана. Почти всички в клана се отнасяха зле с нея, защото никога не са очаквали леърда им да се ожени така бързо и много от момичетата са се надявали, че Тайг ще избере някоя от тях, затова Марейд срещна доста сериозен отпор, те я обиждаха, подиграваха й се зад гърба, саботираха усилията й и гледаха как да я наранят най-силно, но в крайна сметка всичко се подреди и ми беше супер интересно как всичко се случи. Разбира се сблъскахме се и с нападателя й от преди години, и тук също беше доста интересно как се развиха нещата. Много харесах грамадното шумно семейство на Марейд. Ще ми се и за тях да има книги, но имайки предвид, че имаше само 2ма останали необвързани братя, и единият се ожени в тази книга, с другият ще се ожени в следващата, изглежда ще си останат само странични персона��и.
В заключение, много ми хареса точно тази книга от поредицата, с нетърпение смятам да прочета още от творчеството на тази авторка.
Марейд е наричана Мишката на МакКензи, заради плахото си поведение. Но тя има причина да е такава. Когато на 14 е на панаир заедно с цялото си семейство Марейд излиза скришом с малкият си брат, а когато го губи в тълпата бива нападната от няколко по-големи момчета. Марейд вярва, че след бруталното нападение, където е спасена от един свещеник, тя вече не е девствена. По тази причина вярва, че никога няма да се омъжи, защото ще донесе само срам на семейството си. През всичките години след нападението тя се крие в дома си, ужасена, че може да се сблъска отново с нападателите си и не споделя с никой тайната, която носи от страх баща й да не принуди нападателя й да се ожени за нея. Но сега родителите й са твърдо решени да уредят брака й, и може би ще й се наложи да каже на някой истината за това, което е преживяла преди години.
Когато Тайг е помолен от своят оръженосец да се ожени за сестра му той мисли, че идеята е смехотворна. Макар клана и дома му да имат нужда от господарка, той няма никакво намерение скоро да се жени. Когато обаче оръженосеца му, му разказва историята за това как умишлено се е скрил от сестра си преди години по време на панаир и как от този ден тя се е променила, Тайг започва да преосмисля убежденията й. Оръженосецът му вярва, че сестра му е била нападната в онзи ден и знае, че Марейд има нужда от добър и разбран съпруг, някой който няма да я отведе много далеч от дома, за разлика от годеника, който й е избрал баща им, и който ще откъсне Марейд от дома и семейството й. Тайг решава, че може да помогне на момичето и с това да затвърди връзките си с клана МакКензи, а щом се запознава с Марейд, той разбира, че е направил най-правилният избор, защото тя въплъщава всичко, което някога е търсил в една жена.
Охххх още от предишната книга харесвах Тейг, но тук, той беше просто прекрасен. Най-страхотният, мил, грижовен и разбран герой на света. Той беше опората на Марейд, позволяваше й да разтвори крила без да се бои, че може да падне, даваше й сигурност и свобода, които бяха просто страхотни. Марейд бързо преодоля страха си . Хареса ми колко уверена в себе си стана тя и как малко по малко започна да печели новият си клана. Почти всички в клана се отнасяха зле с нея, защото никога не са очаквали леърда им да се ожени така бързо и много от момичетата са се надявали, че Тайг ще избере някоя от тях, затова Марейд срещна доста сериозен отпор, те я обиждаха, подиграваха й се зад гърба, саботираха усилията й и гледаха как да я наранят най-силно, но в крайна сметка всичко се подреди и ми беше супер интересно как всичко се случи. Разбира се сблъскахме се и с нападателя й от преди години, и тук също беше доста интересно как се развиха нещата. Много харесах грамадното шумно семейство на Марейд. Ще ми се и за тях да има книги, но имайки предвид, че имаше само 2ма останали необвързани братя, и единият се ожени в тази книга, с другият ще се ожени в следващата, изглежда ще си останат само странични персона��и.
В заключение, много ми хареса точно тази книга от поредицата, с нетърпение смятам да прочета още от творчеството на тази авторка.
March 19, 2016
I read the first book in the series Highland Solution and liked it well enough, I decided to read book 2. Now I know I have erred. I still have book 3 on the shelf and I am not sure I can convince myself to read another book from the writer.
The writing itself is actually pretty good. It reads rather well. I have however, major issues with how the story progresses. This book, despite being well written, is BORING. To write a story about sexual assault, such an emotionally charged theme, the book is shockingly bland. In the first half of the story, we read about how the heroine deals with a clan who is not exactly welcoming to their new lady. We read about the steward, the bitter maids, and stupid villagers. We read about how a maid tried to embarrass her by entering the master bedroom when principal characters were naked in bed. We read about a too good to be true hero who seemed way too soft for me. I am all about men treating women well and especially handling their special ladies with extra care. But the way the hero is portrayed, he might be as well her older brother, or even older sister. The interactions between lead characters are weak. All that there ever was, was sex. With such a softly written hero and a timid heroine, I really had trouble picturing heaven-and-earth-rocking sex.
I decided to stop reading the book at about 50%. I would venture to guess that the second half of the story would feature 1. how the heroine wins the hearts of her new clan and 2. the heroine's confrontation of the men who assulted her at a young age. Throw in a few boring sex scence, there, you have a book.
I have the utmost respect for writers who tackle the sexual assault topic in their stories. As aversed as I usually am from suffering in my romance novels, I am willing to read about how a female slowly works her way through and rises above such horrors and I am pained at the face of their struggles and humbled by the emergence of their triumph. This book, cannot claim to have tackled this topic. It is a wanna-be romance novel which resorted to discussing details of how a woman fits in her new environment after marriage. Rape (or attempted rape in this book), romance, love, even lust, are poorly explored in this story. I beg for forgivness if my review seems harsh to the writer. As a reader I really had to push myself to muddle through 50%. I would have given 1 star if it wasn't for the attempt to address sexual assult and the ok writing. The writing is not the problem. Plot and character developments are.
The writing itself is actually pretty good. It reads rather well. I have however, major issues with how the story progresses. This book, despite being well written, is BORING. To write a story about sexual assault, such an emotionally charged theme, the book is shockingly bland. In the first half of the story, we read about how the heroine deals with a clan who is not exactly welcoming to their new lady. We read about the steward, the bitter maids, and stupid villagers. We read about how a maid tried to embarrass her by entering the master bedroom when principal characters were naked in bed. We read about a too good to be true hero who seemed way too soft for me. I am all about men treating women well and especially handling their special ladies with extra care. But the way the hero is portrayed, he might be as well her older brother, or even older sister. The interactions between lead characters are weak. All that there ever was, was sex. With such a softly written hero and a timid heroine, I really had trouble picturing heaven-and-earth-rocking sex.
I decided to stop reading the book at about 50%. I would venture to guess that the second half of the story would feature 1. how the heroine wins the hearts of her new clan and 2. the heroine's confrontation of the men who assulted her at a young age. Throw in a few boring sex scence, there, you have a book.
I have the utmost respect for writers who tackle the sexual assault topic in their stories. As aversed as I usually am from suffering in my romance novels, I am willing to read about how a female slowly works her way through and rises above such horrors and I am pained at the face of their struggles and humbled by the emergence of their triumph. This book, cannot claim to have tackled this topic. It is a wanna-be romance novel which resorted to discussing details of how a woman fits in her new environment after marriage. Rape (or attempted rape in this book), romance, love, even lust, are poorly explored in this story. I beg for forgivness if my review seems harsh to the writer. As a reader I really had to push myself to muddle through 50%. I would have given 1 star if it wasn't for the attempt to address sexual assult and the ok writing. The writing is not the problem. Plot and character developments are.
January 31, 2014
This is an Awesome book!!!
Mairead MacKenzie is being married to Laird Tadgh Matheson. She doesn't want to marry anyone. To do so would mean that she would have to face an unspeakable experience. What Mairead doesn't realize is that Tadgh is an amazing man who will help her face anything.
This book is so full of feelings. The feelings you have when you are scared. The feelings you have when you realize that you trust someone and that the trust is given back tenfold. The feelings you have when you know you are loved and that loving back is a wonderous thing. The feelings you have when you finally are able to face your greatest fear and conquer it. The feelings you have when you are happy.
Those of us who have faced a fear will see themselves as Mairead and hopefully everyone will have a Tadgh to love them as well as Tadgh loves her.
Mairead MacKenzie is being married to Laird Tadgh Matheson. She doesn't want to marry anyone. To do so would mean that she would have to face an unspeakable experience. What Mairead doesn't realize is that Tadgh is an amazing man who will help her face anything.
This book is so full of feelings. The feelings you have when you are scared. The feelings you have when you realize that you trust someone and that the trust is given back tenfold. The feelings you have when you know you are loved and that loving back is a wonderous thing. The feelings you have when you finally are able to face your greatest fear and conquer it. The feelings you have when you are happy.
Those of us who have faced a fear will see themselves as Mairead and hopefully everyone will have a Tadgh to love them as well as Tadgh loves her.
March 5, 2014
Highland Courage is the story of a woman Mairead who through an unfortunate event closes herself to the people around her. Her father decides it's time to marry and sets about planning her betrothal, enter the handsome Tadgh Matheson who marries Mairead and helps her to overcome her fears and become the strong woman he knew she was. This story makes a refreshing change from the predictable, there is no pussy footing around and from the start you can see the strength of the main characters and journey with them through their ups and downs, its a story of honesty, courage, justice but most of all love. To understand what I mean, you need to read it for yourself, you won't be disappointed.
I enjoyed Highland Solution tremendously and this book is even better, I couldn't put it down.
I enjoyed Highland Solution tremendously and this book is even better, I couldn't put it down.
March 11, 2014
This book is a sequel to Highland Solution, though you don't need to read the first book to understand the second. This book touches on stuff that most people are afraid to talk about. I truly loved this book. It has a bit of mystery and crime. Then there is Tadhg and Mairead. You fall in love with them both instantly. He is every bit what you would want in a man. Understanding loving and strong yet very protective. She learns to become something she thought she could never be. I read this book in 24 hours. I was hooked from the time I started reading it, all the way to the end. I am hoping there will be more to this series and work off of the MacKenzies, Matheson's, and also the MacIan's. I would recommend this series to everyone. You will just love it.
May 25, 2017
From MacKenzies mouse to lady of the keep.
The terror & consequences of living with sexual assault is not a fun read. However, the courage this young woman has, the risk & trust she puts in her new husband she's just met, determination to win over her new disgruntled clan is tremendous & the strength she has to learn to how to protect herself is inspiring.
The story is well written & characters well developed. I look forward to the authors other works.
The terror & consequences of living with sexual assault is not a fun read. However, the courage this young woman has, the risk & trust she puts in her new husband she's just met, determination to win over her new disgruntled clan is tremendous & the strength she has to learn to how to protect herself is inspiring.
The story is well written & characters well developed. I look forward to the authors other works.
September 11, 2017
Mairead Mackenzie had a secret, that she wanted no one to know about. Her family wanted a betrothed and married. Tadhg Matherson admires and respects Mairead, also aware that she has a terrible shyness about her. Secrets have a way of coming to the light. With unconditional love, will she be able to handle the consequences?
January 20, 2016
“Fear and courage are brothers.” Quote from Highland Courage
The adage, you reap what you sow comes to mind in this wonderful Highland tale.
I was so excited when I finished this audio, I immediately purchased Highland Intrigue, third in the series.
Mairead came to Tadhg’s keep with rumors and gossip aplenty. Many thought her nickname was given as weakness. Rather it was given for her coloring compared to her family. The memories of a painful experience when but fourteen had turned the vivacious young, tender-hearted girl into one that feared people, therefore her seemingly timid demeanor. If she ventured forth from her home, would she run into the young men, now much older, who had attacked her and taken what she didn’t willingly give?
I love how this ‘mouse’ of a woman made her way into the hearts of her new clan, whether it be taking part in knowing the elders of the clan or winning over the steward. She had so many skills to benefit this clan, but she tread carefully. They hadn’t had a chatelain since Tadhg’s mother passed away some ten years previous.
Mairead was a pure heroine in my eyes. She sought people out, helping the village people. She’d listen to their problems and tried to solve them. Her heart was only full of forgiveness when she dealt with the animosity of her clansmen.
Ceci Giltenan kept me listening intensely, cheering Mairead on as she approaches her marriage with total truth, open heart and strong will. However, her past will haunt her once again. This time she has the support and respect of Tadhg as well as his new founded love.
Truly this was an inspirational book. Mairead had learned to take care of herself and speak up for herself. There were many facets of this story and characters which added to the suspense. Flan, Mairead’s brother played a huge part in the new direction of Mairead’s life. Oren, the steward, once won over, could not do other than see only the good in Mairead. Two village women exhibited how important loyalty is to their Laird. Mairead overcomes much with her steadfast character.
Narrator Paul Woodson did a marvelous job telling this story. He was fully engaged with each character’s personality and emotion which engages the reader. Pacing was perfect. His voice for women is certainly believable and his Scottish accent adds to the pleasure of the listening placing the listener within the Highlands.
The adage, you reap what you sow comes to mind in this wonderful Highland tale.
I was so excited when I finished this audio, I immediately purchased Highland Intrigue, third in the series.
Mairead came to Tadhg’s keep with rumors and gossip aplenty. Many thought her nickname was given as weakness. Rather it was given for her coloring compared to her family. The memories of a painful experience when but fourteen had turned the vivacious young, tender-hearted girl into one that feared people, therefore her seemingly timid demeanor. If she ventured forth from her home, would she run into the young men, now much older, who had attacked her and taken what she didn’t willingly give?
I love how this ‘mouse’ of a woman made her way into the hearts of her new clan, whether it be taking part in knowing the elders of the clan or winning over the steward. She had so many skills to benefit this clan, but she tread carefully. They hadn’t had a chatelain since Tadhg’s mother passed away some ten years previous.
Mairead was a pure heroine in my eyes. She sought people out, helping the village people. She’d listen to their problems and tried to solve them. Her heart was only full of forgiveness when she dealt with the animosity of her clansmen.
Ceci Giltenan kept me listening intensely, cheering Mairead on as she approaches her marriage with total truth, open heart and strong will. However, her past will haunt her once again. This time she has the support and respect of Tadhg as well as his new founded love.
Truly this was an inspirational book. Mairead had learned to take care of herself and speak up for herself. There were many facets of this story and characters which added to the suspense. Flan, Mairead’s brother played a huge part in the new direction of Mairead’s life. Oren, the steward, once won over, could not do other than see only the good in Mairead. Two village women exhibited how important loyalty is to their Laird. Mairead overcomes much with her steadfast character.
Narrator Paul Woodson did a marvelous job telling this story. He was fully engaged with each character’s personality and emotion which engages the reader. Pacing was perfect. His voice for women is certainly believable and his Scottish accent adds to the pleasure of the listening placing the listener within the Highlands.
March 9, 2014
The Western Highlands - 1360
Mairead's father decides he has waited long enough and is picking a husband for her at the Michaelmas Festival. She isn't happy with this news at all. Something happened to her that changed her life, making her withdraw into the safety of her home, and she declares she will not go with him when he goes. Tadhg hears of the match her father is wanting to make and offers for her. Her father returns with news that she will marry within the month. Tadhg has my heart by the third chapter. Mairead tells him her secret and although she fears rejection from her family, and him, he wants her anyway. The wedding takes places and she sets in trying to earn the trust of his clan. While I find myself wanting to bash a few heads in the clan, several others left me feeling all warmhearted inside and smiling. I think I should take a few notes from Mairead on how to treat rude people and do it graciously for I would have had them all quaking in their shoes and hate in their hearts for me. I loved watching her realize she was worthy and brave with the courage of a lioness. This, she finds, is tested around every corner. Tadhg is so understanding with her while at the same time is so blind to things going on within his own clan. There is a little bit of deceiving and shunning going on. Hackles get raised and when things get worked out and everything is set to right, they leave for her brother Rowan's wedding. Once there, all hell breaks loose. Rowan has been injured and lies unconscious, Mairead is attacked, and the clans are almost to the point of war. There are several people at this point that make me want to crawl into the story and kill them slowly with my own sword. Everything comes clean once again and marriage ties are once again made between the Frasers and the Mackenzies.
This story had a ton of humor that had me Hee-Hawing. I love when I find my cheeks aching from smiling and laughing so much. The fact that Ceci Giltenan had me laughing one moment, in the "aw" mode the next, then directly into a feeling of rage, shows the depth of emotion in the story and her ability to make you 'feel' it too. The Epilogue brings it all full circle with a welcome surprise... or two... that left this reader very content. Thank you, Ceci, for the adventure!
Mairead's father decides he has waited long enough and is picking a husband for her at the Michaelmas Festival. She isn't happy with this news at all. Something happened to her that changed her life, making her withdraw into the safety of her home, and she declares she will not go with him when he goes. Tadhg hears of the match her father is wanting to make and offers for her. Her father returns with news that she will marry within the month. Tadhg has my heart by the third chapter. Mairead tells him her secret and although she fears rejection from her family, and him, he wants her anyway. The wedding takes places and she sets in trying to earn the trust of his clan. While I find myself wanting to bash a few heads in the clan, several others left me feeling all warmhearted inside and smiling. I think I should take a few notes from Mairead on how to treat rude people and do it graciously for I would have had them all quaking in their shoes and hate in their hearts for me. I loved watching her realize she was worthy and brave with the courage of a lioness. This, she finds, is tested around every corner. Tadhg is so understanding with her while at the same time is so blind to things going on within his own clan. There is a little bit of deceiving and shunning going on. Hackles get raised and when things get worked out and everything is set to right, they leave for her brother Rowan's wedding. Once there, all hell breaks loose. Rowan has been injured and lies unconscious, Mairead is attacked, and the clans are almost to the point of war. There are several people at this point that make me want to crawl into the story and kill them slowly with my own sword. Everything comes clean once again and marriage ties are once again made between the Frasers and the Mackenzies.
This story had a ton of humor that had me Hee-Hawing. I love when I find my cheeks aching from smiling and laughing so much. The fact that Ceci Giltenan had me laughing one moment, in the "aw" mode the next, then directly into a feeling of rage, shows the depth of emotion in the story and her ability to make you 'feel' it too. The Epilogue brings it all full circle with a welcome surprise... or two... that left this reader very content. Thank you, Ceci, for the adventure!
March 13, 2022
An attack during her childhood left Mairead feeling ashamed and tainted, so when her father and mother told her of her betrothal her honor would not allow her to enter into the marriage. Tadhg, who had already guessed what had happened from what her brothers related to him, listen to her tell him why he should call off the betrothal then told her he would honor the betrothal. In my mind that makes him a great and honorable man. From there is was awesome to watch her and her new clan learn to trust each other, it was kind of like watching a Rocky movie where everyone was rooting for the other guy at the beginning of the big fight but by the time the fight was over they were rooting for Rocky.
I think my favorite part of the story was when Mairead’s recorder was broken and Jock, who happens to be my favorite character in the story, threw his clansmen under the bus they deserved to be under as he enlightened the Laird to their misdeeds. There were many other points in the story that are worth telling you about but then you wouldn’t read it your self and you really should.
This is one of those picks where I go to look over my notes and there were none so of course I just had to read it again even though I had just read it a short time ago. Then I realized as soon as I finished it the second time that again there were no notes. I was so thoroughly involved in the story that I never came up for air. The lack of edits that usually create bumps in the story were not there, in this beautifully written story.
This review posting contains the body of the review, which is only a portion of the original review which is posted here https://laurasbookbinge.wordpress.com...
I think my favorite part of the story was when Mairead’s recorder was broken and Jock, who happens to be my favorite character in the story, threw his clansmen under the bus they deserved to be under as he enlightened the Laird to their misdeeds. There were many other points in the story that are worth telling you about but then you wouldn’t read it your self and you really should.
This is one of those picks where I go to look over my notes and there were none so of course I just had to read it again even though I had just read it a short time ago. Then I realized as soon as I finished it the second time that again there were no notes. I was so thoroughly involved in the story that I never came up for air. The lack of edits that usually create bumps in the story were not there, in this beautifully written story.
This review posting contains the body of the review, which is only a portion of the original review which is posted here https://laurasbookbinge.wordpress.com...
January 18, 2015
This book is difficult to rate for me for different reasons:
1. I loved Tadhg. He won my Heart in the first book and I could not wait to read his story. His character was very consistent and he was the strong, tender hero, full of honor, whom I expected. The way he treated Mairead was great, especially after he knew her story.
The problem was, we did not really see a lot of his perspective, so I am not sure, I really know more about him than After the first
2. Mairead was a beautiful heroine and definitely the center of this story. It is most of all her story about how to conquer fear and find love, happiness and a place of your own. Her character was the most defined and well developed
3. The love story: That was beautiful without misunderstandings or fall outs but I missed the spark and the Real development within the relationship
4. The story behind is a bit weak. There is a bit of intrigue at the end but not really a lot of a plot. I love medeival love stories but although I want hot and sizzeling chemistry I also want a Bit of suspense with it
5. We see the characters from the first book and I definitely loved that
So, every beautiful perspective in this book was also a Bit disappointing for me.
Ceci Giltenan tells really beautiful stories full of love but there is always a bit missing. I liked the First book with its weaknesses and this second book definitely improves on These points.
All in all this book is a good read and I will read the next one as well as it is Fingals story
1. I loved Tadhg. He won my Heart in the first book and I could not wait to read his story. His character was very consistent and he was the strong, tender hero, full of honor, whom I expected. The way he treated Mairead was great, especially after he knew her story.
The problem was, we did not really see a lot of his perspective, so I am not sure, I really know more about him than After the first
2. Mairead was a beautiful heroine and definitely the center of this story. It is most of all her story about how to conquer fear and find love, happiness and a place of your own. Her character was the most defined and well developed
3. The love story: That was beautiful without misunderstandings or fall outs but I missed the spark and the Real development within the relationship
4. The story behind is a bit weak. There is a bit of intrigue at the end but not really a lot of a plot. I love medeival love stories but although I want hot and sizzeling chemistry I also want a Bit of suspense with it
5. We see the characters from the first book and I definitely loved that
So, every beautiful perspective in this book was also a Bit disappointing for me.
Ceci Giltenan tells really beautiful stories full of love but there is always a bit missing. I liked the First book with its weaknesses and this second book definitely improves on These points.
All in all this book is a good read and I will read the next one as well as it is Fingals story
March 21, 2014
OK, so I'm in love with Tadhg! Such a brave, brawny Highland chief of his clan. Tough, but yet sensitive and gentle, Yep I'm in love! Too bad he has met the love of his life, Maired MacKenzie,. I truly loved this story. In other reviews, the story line is told very well, so I won't go there. I want to write of the emotions this book allows you to experience. Upon first meeting, Tadhg takes to Maired. He senses her reserve and doesn't push her. He wins her trust and love. Maired, though thought shy and mousy, isn't that at all. A strong woman, wanting to take care of the problems she encounters in her life as mistress in a new clan. Maired shows her strength and growth along with the love she has grown into for Tadhg. Tadhg has grown in love with his wife and protects her in all ways. Highland Courage write of love, growth, respect, hidden secrets and a bit of mystery and justice served. I enjoyed the way Ceci wrote this. Her writing is knowledgeable of historical times and I really liked how she wrote of sensitive subjects to some. I highly, highly, recommend her books.
May 15, 2014
It was ok. Mairead was a victim of a sexual assault 7 years ago but she never told anyone about it. Her father thinks its high time that she finally got married because she has been babied had home long enough. In comes Tadhg, Laird of the Mathesons clan who offers for Mairead after a conversation with his squire, Flan, younger brother of Mairead. Flan was worried for Mairead and expressed his concerns to Tadhg and said he'd be less worried if she married Tadhg because his lands borders theirs and is within riding distance. Tadhg is like one giant bear - a lovable softy. He didn't mind that his shy wife Mairead was touched before and helped give her courage to face her fears. Mairead as a character was ok. I sort of wished her character was stronger.
January 3, 2015
What was the author thinking when writing the interactions between the main characters and the character development. Respectfully, it didn't make sense at all. I seriously appreciated that the author was bringing awareness to sexual abuse/violence (the only redeeming quality in the entire book), but the heroine's behavior had giant inconsistencies and was just not decently written.
I tried really hard to be nice and forgiving, but this book just wasn't worth reading at all. There's no way to look past it. No engaging or interesting plot, no unique characters, no nice dialogue, too many characters, etc.
Would not recommend to anyone.
I tried really hard to be nice and forgiving, but this book just wasn't worth reading at all. There's no way to look past it. No engaging or interesting plot, no unique characters, no nice dialogue, too many characters, etc.
Would not recommend to anyone.
August 25, 2016
I really enjoyed this story. It's nice to see a seemingly meek heroine come into her own throughout the book. I would recommend this book to historical romance fans but I suggest you read the first book in the series so that you have a better understanding of some of the characters and how they tie together.
June 26, 2014
The characterization of both Mairead and Tadhg really shines in this sweet and sexy historical.
Read full review in the 2014 May issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2014 May issue of InD’tale Magazine.
May 15, 2020
I loved how Tadhg helped Mairead move beyond her past to become a confident woman. This was a fun and interesting read. I enjoyed the information about traditions that Ms. Giltenan wove into the story. I will be reading more of her stories.
March 1, 2015
I found the book well written but often boring, possibly because the characters were one note [violent, meek, strident, witchy etc] and the resolutions mostly implausible. I'm also tired of people falling in LOVE so quickly.
February 21, 2016
Much better than the first. Tadig was a true highland laird. He put his wife's love and feelings first. The H/h were both very likeable the characters and the story were good. A good highland romance!! On to book 3!
March 29, 2014
Lovely book.
I really enjoyed this book. Each character's story is one that makes you feel like you know them personally. like you want to protect and help them.
I really enjoyed this book. Each character's story is one that makes you feel like you know them personally. like you want to protect and help them.
October 6, 2015
All's well that ends well.
You may find yourself creating an ending, but you'll find a few surprises along the way some you didn't think of.
You may find yourself creating an ending, but you'll find a few surprises along the way some you didn't think of.
November 13, 2017
Once one thinks more on this book the more rage inducing it gets and then I start to hate it. I wanted to give it a higher rating because I really like Tadhg and Mairead, but there was just things about this book that I just couldn't. For one the whole problem with the clan accepting her was a bit ridiculous. She wasn't even from a rivaled/hated clan even! No, they just wanted Tadhg to marry within the clan!? That was just stupid as obviously he wouldn't! If it was just the girls who stupidly wished to be his wife, and ambitious mothers/fathers of marriage-aged girls, then that would make sense. But almost the whole stinkin' clan?
And the villain, he should have been killed! Seriously, I can't believe that Tadhg and Mairead's father would not kill him no matter the reason! He deserved to be killed and honor demanded, especially back then, for him to be killed! And then said villain protects this other girl. This author has trouble with keeping characters within character as that was so unbelievable. And that maid that aided him, she did so many horrible things and gets practically rewarded at the end! At least that other girl had some punishment (though should have been more for what she did).
This is a book that shows you can get off lightly for the worse of crimes and receive little to no punishment. Well, between this and another book, I will never read another book from this author.
And the villain, he should have been killed! Seriously, I can't believe that Tadhg and Mairead's father would not kill him no matter the reason! He deserved to be killed and honor demanded, especially back then, for him to be killed! And then said villain protects this other girl. This author has trouble with keeping characters within character as that was so unbelievable. And that maid that aided him, she did so many horrible things and gets practically rewarded at the end! At least that other girl had some punishment (though should have been more for what she did).
This is a book that shows you can get off lightly for the worse of crimes and receive little to no punishment. Well, between this and another book, I will never read another book from this author.
July 9, 2017
Will secrets destroy a family and their reputation?
Mairead is hunted from her past. One silly event as a child left her terrified. Her parents want the best for her and try to wed her to another clan. Ensuring a bonding between the clans.
The betrothed her parents found for her is a heir to the laird and her brothers fear for her when she has to be so far away from her family. They talk with Tadhg, another laird, an ally of the clan whose home is closer. Since it would be in his clans best interest, he offers for her.
But with the betrothal, secrets will be revealed, secrets that threaten to destroy the lives of so many.
Sweet little highland story with good characters and a solid plot.
Mairead is hunted from her past. One silly event as a child left her terrified. Her parents want the best for her and try to wed her to another clan. Ensuring a bonding between the clans.
The betrothed her parents found for her is a heir to the laird and her brothers fear for her when she has to be so far away from her family. They talk with Tadhg, another laird, an ally of the clan whose home is closer. Since it would be in his clans best interest, he offers for her.
But with the betrothal, secrets will be revealed, secrets that threaten to destroy the lives of so many.
Sweet little highland story with good characters and a solid plot.
June 11, 2019
Slept about 2 hrs...
After reading the 1 1st book o.j. this series, I left a review stating I read it straight through last night. I then exchanged the 1st book for this one, at about 50%, I finally feel asleep...for only 2 hrs, then I was back to reading! I loved this book just as much as the 1st. It was amazing how Tadhg was so understanding with Mairead before the wedding as she tried to explain what had happened to her 7 yrs earlier when she was but 14. LOVE THIS SERIES, can't wait to get through and start the Legacy series!
Mrs. Giltenan, you are an amazingly talented author & I truly can't wait too read more from you!
After reading the 1 1st book o.j. this series, I left a review stating I read it straight through last night. I then exchanged the 1st book for this one, at about 50%, I finally feel asleep...for only 2 hrs, then I was back to reading! I loved this book just as much as the 1st. It was amazing how Tadhg was so understanding with Mairead before the wedding as she tried to explain what had happened to her 7 yrs earlier when she was but 14. LOVE THIS SERIES, can't wait to get through and start the Legacy series!
Mrs. Giltenan, you are an amazingly talented author & I truly can't wait too read more from you!
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