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The Devil of Jedburgh
Raised on rumours of The Devil of Jedburgh, Breghan McAllen doesn't want an arranged marriage to the beast. The arrogant border laird is not the romantic, sophisticated husband Breghan dreams of-despite the heat he stirs within her.In need of an heir, Arran has finally agreed to take a wife, but when he sees Breghan's fragile beauty, he's furious. He will not risk the life of another maiden by getting her with child. Lust prompts him to offer a necessary precautions, and handfasting for a year and a day, after which Breghan will be free. For a chance to control her own future, Breghan makes a deal with the Devil.Passion quickly turns to love, but Arran still has no intention of keeping the lass, or making her a mother. He loves her too much to lose her. But when a treasonous plot threatens queen and country, Breghan has to prove only she is woman enough to stand by his side.95,000 words
337 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 6, 2012
5 people are currently reading
255 people want to read
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Claire Robyns
40 books118 followersClaire Robyns writes mystery, romance and adventure, because sometimes one life really can have it all (between the pages of a book, at least.)
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 33 reviews
February 7, 2012
I really enjoyed this one, provided by netgalley. What's not to like about a hottie in a plaid? Even the cover's hot, although I'll be honest, I don't think they really went in for chest waxes in those days.
The plot was a leetle bit formulaic (Scottish hottie seeks bride, marries into the clan next door to resident spitfire, we follow their attempts to make it work etc. etc), but there were a couple of things that made this much more enjoyable than that cynical synopsis (try saying that with your mouth full..) let's on.
Now, I had to admit, about 50% of the way in I was pondering to myself "I really hope this one comes up with a more interesting way to finish this book than I think it is". After the heroine and hero settle into life in his place, start coming to terms with one another, and she's lost her cherry and decided that having sex with a super-hunk isn't actually half bad, I really couldn't figure out how this book was going to hold my interest. Well, this author came up with a really good way of doing just that!
The author uses the historical aspect really, really well. She's got it right that in Scotland, both the Highlanders and those on the Borders (with England) were considered equally fearsome, equally aggressive and equally uncontrollable. It was the ones who inhabited the areas around Edinburgh, Perth, Stirling, Glasgow who were considered the most civilized. Our hero is a Border lord, with the EQ of an ant and a body to lust over!
Also, the author makes some of the best use of real historical figures that I've read. She effortlessly weaves Mary, Queen of Scots, her husband "King" Henry Darnley, and the Earl of Moray (Mary's far more effective half-brother) into the plot, in a way that is probably as fair as I've seen. She doesn't fall into the old Mary-Queen-of-Scots-Is-A-Tart line and she makes Darnley as insecure as a spoilt, teenage boy is. The hero isn't just prancing around on the side of all this political mayhem either - the author has taken a very specific event in history and plonked the hero front and center, and focuses just on his experience of what happens. It's really great stuff!
I also love how the hero has some hang-ups about childbirth. Too many historicals just pretend that childbirth was as it is today, when it was incredibly dangerous. I just checked that one study suggests that between 1400 and 1800 women had a 1-3% chance of dying with each birth, and since they averaged about 5 births, then about 10% died directly as a result of childbirth. That's a grim figure. No wander so many women wanted to be nuns.
Now, I did have one gripe about this book. I just couldn't stand the heroine. I had two issues with her. First off, and most irritatingly, she was a spoilt brat. She wanted absolutely everything her own way, and even when she got her own way, she was horrible. Apparently she was beautiful, but I just couldn't shake the mental picture of her being like a Tudor Naomi Campbell, all pouty lips, sour face and raging temper tantrums. This was Scotland in the 1500s for heaven's sake - she belonged to her father. That's how it was! Even better for her, her Dad thinks the sun shines out of her backside, despite being a wicked little selfish madam, so she got an easy ride. Couldn't the little witch just be happy with that?
The other issue was that I couldn't help thinking how much more I would have enjoyed this one if the heroine hadn't been a spitfire, but just an intelligent woman of her times, who actually knew when to keep her trap shut and could actually influence her husband rationally rather than hitting his chest all the time. But I suspect that the highland historical romance WITHOUT the heroine-as-spitfire trope doesn't actually exist. Please let me know if I'm wrong...
Anyway, 4 stars, despite all my grumbling, and if you want to know more about the Stewarts, who really were an interesting, flawed family, with more than one or two naughty members over the years, check out The Royal Stuarts: A History of the Family That Shaped Britain.
It's available to buy NOW.
The plot was a leetle bit formulaic (Scottish hottie seeks bride, marries into the clan next door to resident spitfire, we follow their attempts to make it work etc. etc), but there were a couple of things that made this much more enjoyable than that cynical synopsis (try saying that with your mouth full..) let's on.
Now, I had to admit, about 50% of the way in I was pondering to myself "I really hope this one comes up with a more interesting way to finish this book than I think it is". After the heroine and hero settle into life in his place, start coming to terms with one another, and she's lost her cherry and decided that having sex with a super-hunk isn't actually half bad, I really couldn't figure out how this book was going to hold my interest. Well, this author came up with a really good way of doing just that!
The author uses the historical aspect really, really well. She's got it right that in Scotland, both the Highlanders and those on the Borders (with England) were considered equally fearsome, equally aggressive and equally uncontrollable. It was the ones who inhabited the areas around Edinburgh, Perth, Stirling, Glasgow who were considered the most civilized. Our hero is a Border lord, with the EQ of an ant and a body to lust over!
Also, the author makes some of the best use of real historical figures that I've read. She effortlessly weaves Mary, Queen of Scots, her husband "King" Henry Darnley, and the Earl of Moray (Mary's far more effective half-brother) into the plot, in a way that is probably as fair as I've seen. She doesn't fall into the old Mary-Queen-of-Scots-Is-A-Tart line and she makes Darnley as insecure as a spoilt, teenage boy is. The hero isn't just prancing around on the side of all this political mayhem either - the author has taken a very specific event in history and plonked the hero front and center, and focuses just on his experience of what happens. It's really great stuff!
I also love how the hero has some hang-ups about childbirth. Too many historicals just pretend that childbirth was as it is today, when it was incredibly dangerous. I just checked that one study suggests that between 1400 and 1800 women had a 1-3% chance of dying with each birth, and since they averaged about 5 births, then about 10% died directly as a result of childbirth. That's a grim figure. No wander so many women wanted to be nuns.
Now, I did have one gripe about this book. I just couldn't stand the heroine. I had two issues with her. First off, and most irritatingly, she was a spoilt brat. She wanted absolutely everything her own way, and even when she got her own way, she was horrible. Apparently she was beautiful, but I just couldn't shake the mental picture of her being like a Tudor Naomi Campbell, all pouty lips, sour face and raging temper tantrums. This was Scotland in the 1500s for heaven's sake - she belonged to her father. That's how it was! Even better for her, her Dad thinks the sun shines out of her backside, despite being a wicked little selfish madam, so she got an easy ride. Couldn't the little witch just be happy with that?
The other issue was that I couldn't help thinking how much more I would have enjoyed this one if the heroine hadn't been a spitfire, but just an intelligent woman of her times, who actually knew when to keep her trap shut and could actually influence her husband rationally rather than hitting his chest all the time. But I suspect that the highland historical romance WITHOUT the heroine-as-spitfire trope doesn't actually exist. Please let me know if I'm wrong...
Anyway, 4 stars, despite all my grumbling, and if you want to know more about the Stewarts, who really were an interesting, flawed family, with more than one or two naughty members over the years, check out The Royal Stuarts: A History of the Family That Shaped Britain.
It's available to buy NOW.
February 8, 2012
Breghan's father has promised her hand in marriage to a neighboring laird with a fierce reputation. Arran is known as the Devil of Jedburg for his ruthlessness, his skill in battle, and a string of terrible rumors that follow his family. Breghan is a headstrong young woman, with her own ideas of how she wants to spend her future. Ideas that don't have anything to do with a wild beast of a man. She runs away, but only manages to incense her husband-to-be. Instead the marriage everyone expected, the two become handfasted for a year and a day.
Despite the fact that Breghan drives him crazy, Arran becomes quite taken with her. He uses their time together to become her lover. But he is terribly afraid of getting her pregnant. His father went through wife after wife who died in childbirth and believes Breghan would meet the same fate.
It's only a matter of time before these two are truly in love with each other, but Arran cannot see reason. His fears rend him unable face a future with Breghan, and leaves everyone wondering how the relationship can make it.
The story is set on the backdrop of some Scottish royal intrigue. But the real draw is the evolution of our main characters. I have to admit, Arran did get on my nerves from time to time with his overbearing ways, but I tried to remind myself of the time frame in which the book is set. He makes for a pretty sexy hero and it was very gratifying to watch him slowly drop his defenses with Breghan.
The direction of the plot is pretty predictable. If the guy's big issue is fear over pregnancy, it's no big leap to guess what's going to happen and how it will all turn out. But I did enjoy getting there. And I was surprised to find I also liked the little side plot of Arran's brutish friend and Breghan's maid. Plus --there were kilts. (And a hint of a brogue.) 3 1/2 stars.
*ARC Provided by NetGalley
Despite the fact that Breghan drives him crazy, Arran becomes quite taken with her. He uses their time together to become her lover. But he is terribly afraid of getting her pregnant. His father went through wife after wife who died in childbirth and believes Breghan would meet the same fate.
It's only a matter of time before these two are truly in love with each other, but Arran cannot see reason. His fears rend him unable face a future with Breghan, and leaves everyone wondering how the relationship can make it.
The story is set on the backdrop of some Scottish royal intrigue. But the real draw is the evolution of our main characters. I have to admit, Arran did get on my nerves from time to time with his overbearing ways, but I tried to remind myself of the time frame in which the book is set. He makes for a pretty sexy hero and it was very gratifying to watch him slowly drop his defenses with Breghan.
The direction of the plot is pretty predictable. If the guy's big issue is fear over pregnancy, it's no big leap to guess what's going to happen and how it will all turn out. But I did enjoy getting there. And I was surprised to find I also liked the little side plot of Arran's brutish friend and Breghan's maid. Plus --there were kilts. (And a hint of a brogue.) 3 1/2 stars.
*ARC Provided by NetGalley
February 4, 2012
Arran is on his way to claim his bride when he is side tracked by a girl found hiding along the road. One of his men stabbed her thinking she was a boar. The girl is actually his betrothed who was running away from the pending marriage due to his reputation as the Devil... Every choice she makes from then on spirals her fate downward.
I got so caught up thinking... geez! shut your mouth! Everytime she started, she ended up sticking her foot in her mouth & getting into more trouble & with higher priced consequences. I was so frustrated with the both of them that I wanted to shake them.
This story was not the kind of frustrating that took away from the story with the back and forth that just goes no where & has an HOA at the end. This had a build up of murphey's law choices & had a constant roll to the story.
It was great & I cannot wait to read more!
I got so caught up thinking... geez! shut your mouth! Everytime she started, she ended up sticking her foot in her mouth & getting into more trouble & with higher priced consequences. I was so frustrated with the both of them that I wanted to shake them.
This story was not the kind of frustrating that took away from the story with the back and forth that just goes no where & has an HOA at the end. This had a build up of murphey's law choices & had a constant roll to the story.
It was great & I cannot wait to read more!
February 10, 2012
This is my 1st book by Claire Robyns and it was a very good book from start to end. This is a "read in a day" kind of book. It was hard to put down. I really enjoyed this book and was entertained with their characters as well as their interactions.
There are many humorous parts that will have you chuckling. So I highly recommend this novel, then judge for yourself if you liked it or not! Great book to read about Scottish Highlands.
** I would like to thank the publishers and the folks at Net Galley for making this advance copy available to me for review. **
There are many humorous parts that will have you chuckling. So I highly recommend this novel, then judge for yourself if you liked it or not! Great book to read about Scottish Highlands.
** I would like to thank the publishers and the folks at Net Galley for making this advance copy available to me for review. **
January 21, 2012
I received an ARC from the publisher through NetGalley. This review does not include any mention of spelling and/or grammatical errors.
This book seems at first glance simply a historical romance like so many others, yet it appealed to me for two reasons - a strong-minded, strong-willed female MC and an equally stubborn, pigheaded male MC.
Arran aka the Devil of Jedburgh, Laird of the Kerrs, must marry to produce an heir. His search for a wife is not defined by love but by finding a woman strong enough to not die while giving birth. He has heard of the McAllen's wife's proclivity to bear lots of strong, strapping sons and assumes that the lone daughter, the last born, will thus also be able to produce his heir without dying in the process. Apparently, even the Scots in the middle of the 16th century had an idea of genetics.
On his ride to fetch his promised bride, he chances upon Breghan who's run off so she won't have to marry Arran since the stories she's heard about him don't paint a pretty picture. While she recognizes him, he does not, and she doesn't correct him when he assumes she's a lady's maid.
Rumors abound about Arran having killed four wives and his own mother, about him being cruel and heartless and in cahoots with the devil. Who would want to marry such a man, right?
Upon learning who Bree really is, Arran insists on a handfasting instead of a marriage, which binds Breghan to him for a year and a day. He's half mad with want for her yet refuses to risk impregnating her since she's, in his eyes, too fragile to bear children. Obviously, he can't marry her since she won't be able to give him heirs.
Arrogant, know-it-all male? Check.
The book progresses much like a typical historical romance, with rather witty, bantering dialogue between the two MCs and a fair amount of intimate encounters as Arran sets about wooing his reluctant wife and simultaneously despising himself for doing so. He wants her in his bed but also knows that he can't keep her and mustn't get her pregnant. Some of the book deals with the prevention of unwanted pregnancy and the author seems to have spent some time researching this information, as indicated in the afterword.
Between the amusing banter and the well-researched historical facts around the reign of Mary, Queen of Scots, this is a very entertaining read. At the same time, you can see the characters grow towards each other to finally confess their love. There are moments when my heart broke for Arran, for the pain he experienced early in his adulthood that shaped him into the man he is now and the reason why he's so deathly afraid of losing his wife if she were to become pregnant.
There is a huge breach of trust that Bree commits toward the last third of the book which then fortuitously serves as the breakthrough these two need to get past Arran's fears and end the discussion about Bree's leaving after the handfasting period is over.
The book is well written, with good forward movement and emotional descriptions of not only the female but also the male character. I held my breath, I laughed, I cheered, I feared right along with them. Their final scenes made me tear up. It's a good author who can evoke those kinds of strong emotions while I'm reading.
A few things I wasn't too happy about:
- the average male height during the 1500s was approx. 5'8". For any woman during that time period to produce 12 sons who all stand over 6', sorry - that's research fail. I understand that all romance males must be strapping, broad-shouldered, hunky specimen but it's not historically accurate.
- the location of the hymen. In so many romance books, including this one, the authors write the defloration as the male organ entering the female channel to some extent before breaking the barrier. That simply is not correct. A quick search on Google will tell you exactly where the hymen is located and half-way up isn't it. This myth is perpetuated again and again, and it's one of my pet peeves. I'm sure there is a romantic reason for why it's written this way, but it eludes me.
Overall, this was a great read for a rainy afternoon or a sunny day at the beach. I enjoyed spending time with Arran and Breghan and will be searching out this author for more of her work.
I think you would too.
This book seems at first glance simply a historical romance like so many others, yet it appealed to me for two reasons - a strong-minded, strong-willed female MC and an equally stubborn, pigheaded male MC.
Arran aka the Devil of Jedburgh, Laird of the Kerrs, must marry to produce an heir. His search for a wife is not defined by love but by finding a woman strong enough to not die while giving birth. He has heard of the McAllen's wife's proclivity to bear lots of strong, strapping sons and assumes that the lone daughter, the last born, will thus also be able to produce his heir without dying in the process. Apparently, even the Scots in the middle of the 16th century had an idea of genetics.
On his ride to fetch his promised bride, he chances upon Breghan who's run off so she won't have to marry Arran since the stories she's heard about him don't paint a pretty picture. While she recognizes him, he does not, and she doesn't correct him when he assumes she's a lady's maid.
Rumors abound about Arran having killed four wives and his own mother, about him being cruel and heartless and in cahoots with the devil. Who would want to marry such a man, right?
Upon learning who Bree really is, Arran insists on a handfasting instead of a marriage, which binds Breghan to him for a year and a day. He's half mad with want for her yet refuses to risk impregnating her since she's, in his eyes, too fragile to bear children. Obviously, he can't marry her since she won't be able to give him heirs.
Arrogant, know-it-all male? Check.
The book progresses much like a typical historical romance, with rather witty, bantering dialogue between the two MCs and a fair amount of intimate encounters as Arran sets about wooing his reluctant wife and simultaneously despising himself for doing so. He wants her in his bed but also knows that he can't keep her and mustn't get her pregnant. Some of the book deals with the prevention of unwanted pregnancy and the author seems to have spent some time researching this information, as indicated in the afterword.
Between the amusing banter and the well-researched historical facts around the reign of Mary, Queen of Scots, this is a very entertaining read. At the same time, you can see the characters grow towards each other to finally confess their love. There are moments when my heart broke for Arran, for the pain he experienced early in his adulthood that shaped him into the man he is now and the reason why he's so deathly afraid of losing his wife if she were to become pregnant.
There is a huge breach of trust that Bree commits toward the last third of the book which then fortuitously serves as the breakthrough these two need to get past Arran's fears and end the discussion about Bree's leaving after the handfasting period is over.
The book is well written, with good forward movement and emotional descriptions of not only the female but also the male character. I held my breath, I laughed, I cheered, I feared right along with them. Their final scenes made me tear up. It's a good author who can evoke those kinds of strong emotions while I'm reading.
A few things I wasn't too happy about:
- the average male height during the 1500s was approx. 5'8". For any woman during that time period to produce 12 sons who all stand over 6', sorry - that's research fail. I understand that all romance males must be strapping, broad-shouldered, hunky specimen but it's not historically accurate.
- the location of the hymen. In so many romance books, including this one, the authors write the defloration as the male organ entering the female channel to some extent before breaking the barrier. That simply is not correct. A quick search on Google will tell you exactly where the hymen is located and half-way up isn't it. This myth is perpetuated again and again, and it's one of my pet peeves. I'm sure there is a romantic reason for why it's written this way, but it eludes me.
Overall, this was a great read for a rainy afternoon or a sunny day at the beach. I enjoyed spending time with Arran and Breghan and will be searching out this author for more of her work.
I think you would too.
August 14, 2012
Reviewed By BlackTulip for Booked Up
The story takes place in the Scottish Lowlands, in a context of high instability and open rebellion. The reign of Mary Queen of Scots was marked with murder and scandal, her court was a viper's nest, where betrayal and plot were commonplace and where murder was often the easiest and quickest way to erase obstacles along the way to power.
The superb opening scene definitely gives the tone for the rest of this compelling story that keeps you in suspense page after page.
Two prominent families, loyal to the Queen made a pledge, one day, Breghan McAllen and Arran Kerr of Ferniehurst would have to marry... In a week's time Breghan will be the wife of the Devil that haunts her nightmares and Arran Kerr has even more terrible and frightening names attached to him ...
Breghan is the only daughter in a family populated with twelve brothers, she was rather spoiled but not to the point of being capricious. She's only young, impulsive, and a bit wild. Their first unexpected encounter is dramatic and explosive and it's only the beginning!
Arran has need of sons to inherit the land and responsibility and that's why he wants Breghan, whose mother produced a dozen sons without apparent problem; well that's what he thought until he saw Breghan!
Breghan had romantic ideas about the man who would love and cherish her; but there would be no companionable nights before a fire here, because Arran Kerr is a devil and a beast!
Before they met, they both had strong views about their future but now that they have met, it has become much more complicated.
These are very harsh times where some brutal acts will demand even more brutal retribution but thank God there are also some moments of softness. There's a deeply moving paragraph in the middle of the story that says:
"Do you believe in love, Arran?" Breghan asked more softly. "Do you believe there can be more between a man and woman than practicalities and necessities? Have you ever wondered if there's someone out there who could make your heart beat faster with a mere look, who could take your breath away with a simple caress, who could fill your life with even a handful of memories that grow richer with time instead of fading?"
Arran's gaze went over her shoulder, to some point on the blank wall behind her. He was silent so long, Breghan began to hear her own erratic pulse thunder inside her head.
"Such wistful emotions are a fatal luxury." His gaze came back to rest on her, a cool and calm green. "I would run from such a person rather than seek her out."
At this stage of the story he cannot answer her otherwise. A moment later, he gives a silent answer to Breghan earlier question:
. "Do you believe in love, Arran?
When I look into your eyes, darling, when I hold you in my arms, when I pretend reality can be changed and I'm allowed to have my heart's desire...then, yes, I believe in love."
Claire Robyns delivers a wonderful, exciting, and poignant story with two very likable and strong main characters. And despite their doubts, their fears, danger always being present, and a curse that will almost tear them apart they won't be able to stand up to the irresistible force of their passion. The author has proven here to be a great storyteller who knows how to balance very skillfully history and fiction. I give 5 big stars!
The story takes place in the Scottish Lowlands, in a context of high instability and open rebellion. The reign of Mary Queen of Scots was marked with murder and scandal, her court was a viper's nest, where betrayal and plot were commonplace and where murder was often the easiest and quickest way to erase obstacles along the way to power.
The superb opening scene definitely gives the tone for the rest of this compelling story that keeps you in suspense page after page.
Two prominent families, loyal to the Queen made a pledge, one day, Breghan McAllen and Arran Kerr of Ferniehurst would have to marry... In a week's time Breghan will be the wife of the Devil that haunts her nightmares and Arran Kerr has even more terrible and frightening names attached to him ...
Breghan is the only daughter in a family populated with twelve brothers, she was rather spoiled but not to the point of being capricious. She's only young, impulsive, and a bit wild. Their first unexpected encounter is dramatic and explosive and it's only the beginning!
Arran has need of sons to inherit the land and responsibility and that's why he wants Breghan, whose mother produced a dozen sons without apparent problem; well that's what he thought until he saw Breghan!
Breghan had romantic ideas about the man who would love and cherish her; but there would be no companionable nights before a fire here, because Arran Kerr is a devil and a beast!
Before they met, they both had strong views about their future but now that they have met, it has become much more complicated.
These are very harsh times where some brutal acts will demand even more brutal retribution but thank God there are also some moments of softness. There's a deeply moving paragraph in the middle of the story that says:
"Do you believe in love, Arran?" Breghan asked more softly. "Do you believe there can be more between a man and woman than practicalities and necessities? Have you ever wondered if there's someone out there who could make your heart beat faster with a mere look, who could take your breath away with a simple caress, who could fill your life with even a handful of memories that grow richer with time instead of fading?"
Arran's gaze went over her shoulder, to some point on the blank wall behind her. He was silent so long, Breghan began to hear her own erratic pulse thunder inside her head.
"Such wistful emotions are a fatal luxury." His gaze came back to rest on her, a cool and calm green. "I would run from such a person rather than seek her out."
At this stage of the story he cannot answer her otherwise. A moment later, he gives a silent answer to Breghan earlier question:
. "Do you believe in love, Arran?
When I look into your eyes, darling, when I hold you in my arms, when I pretend reality can be changed and I'm allowed to have my heart's desire...then, yes, I believe in love."
Claire Robyns delivers a wonderful, exciting, and poignant story with two very likable and strong main characters. And despite their doubts, their fears, danger always being present, and a curse that will almost tear them apart they won't be able to stand up to the irresistible force of their passion. The author has proven here to be a great storyteller who knows how to balance very skillfully history and fiction. I give 5 big stars!
January 28, 2012
Probabaly 4 1/2 stars. A hot love interest who wears a kilt and talks with a Scottish accent? Um, yes, please!!
I've been reading outside my YA genre lately, and since I love historical fiction, I decided to give historical romance a try. The Devil of Jedburgh didn't disappoint.
I loved that Breghan was a sassy, spunky woman of the 17th century. Even though she'd heard horrible stories about Arran, she always stood her ground and stood up to him and the patriarchal society she found herself in. Their chemistry was red hot from the first moment they met(even though he didn't know who she was). Of course, her spunk sometimes drove her away from Arran and would have served her a few times to read things between them a little differently.
Arran's devil reputation was only the product of legends. Instead of being a beast, he's a hottie with a sad past in love that leaves him emotionally stunted when it comes to love. Sure, he wouldn't mind a roll in the hay with Breghan, but he doesn't want to marry her bc he totally separates marriage and love. Plus, he only wants a wife to give him heirs.
Would totally recommend this to anyone who loves historical romance, and even though I read the eARc, I'll probably buy this one when it comes out. Great steamy scenes, historical tidbits interspersed(had never heard of handfasting, which is where a man would take a woman for a year as a trial marriage. If he liked her, he'd marry her, if not, he'd send her back to her family), and swoonworthy hero....and a sweet romance!
I've been reading outside my YA genre lately, and since I love historical fiction, I decided to give historical romance a try. The Devil of Jedburgh didn't disappoint.
I loved that Breghan was a sassy, spunky woman of the 17th century. Even though she'd heard horrible stories about Arran, she always stood her ground and stood up to him and the patriarchal society she found herself in. Their chemistry was red hot from the first moment they met(even though he didn't know who she was). Of course, her spunk sometimes drove her away from Arran and would have served her a few times to read things between them a little differently.
Arran's devil reputation was only the product of legends. Instead of being a beast, he's a hottie with a sad past in love that leaves him emotionally stunted when it comes to love. Sure, he wouldn't mind a roll in the hay with Breghan, but he doesn't want to marry her bc he totally separates marriage and love. Plus, he only wants a wife to give him heirs.
Would totally recommend this to anyone who loves historical romance, and even though I read the eARc, I'll probably buy this one when it comes out. Great steamy scenes, historical tidbits interspersed(had never heard of handfasting, which is where a man would take a woman for a year as a trial marriage. If he liked her, he'd marry her, if not, he'd send her back to her family), and swoonworthy hero....and a sweet romance!
January 23, 2012
Breghan McAllen's father has promised her hand in marriage to the Laird of Kerrs, Arran. He is known as the Devil of Jedburgh, because of rumors of his evilness. He's finally looking for a wife in order to get an heir. He choose's Breghan thinking she will be someone who can handle giving birth to a large baby. When he finally meets Breghan, though, he finds a much tinier woman than he expected. He suggests a handfasting instead of a marriage. Breghan agrees, looking forward to the freedom to choose her next husband after a year with Arran.
This one started a little rough for me. I found the hero a bit too unforgiving and rough around the edges in the beginning. And though Arran doesn't change a whole lot by the end, he grew on me. If I were in his circumstances, I might be grumpy too. He did have some great moments of sweetness with Breghan.
I really enjoyed the historical aspects of this book. Robyns integrated Mary, Queen of Scots and the politics and royal drama of that time very well, I thought.
Definitely recommended to fans of highlander romances.
ARC provided by NetGalley.
This one started a little rough for me. I found the hero a bit too unforgiving and rough around the edges in the beginning. And though Arran doesn't change a whole lot by the end, he grew on me. If I were in his circumstances, I might be grumpy too. He did have some great moments of sweetness with Breghan.
I really enjoyed the historical aspects of this book. Robyns integrated Mary, Queen of Scots and the politics and royal drama of that time very well, I thought.
Definitely recommended to fans of highlander romances.
ARC provided by NetGalley.
May 17, 2021
Reread 17th May, 2021: Still an amazing read filled with strong emotions and blazing passion.
——
First read;
This was such a good read!!
The beginning might get on your edge a bit with how stubborn both hero and heroine were but the end is as rewarding as a book can be! I love the plot so much, it’s so different from what I’m used to!
4.5 stars, highly recommend!
——
First read;
This was such a good read!!
The beginning might get on your edge a bit with how stubborn both hero and heroine were but the end is as rewarding as a book can be! I love the plot so much, it’s so different from what I’m used to!
4.5 stars, highly recommend!
February 24, 2012
3.5
Favorite Lines: “He wants to dally for a while afore choosing a more appropriate wife and I want to earn my freedom. We both win.” (p. 71, egalley)
Men are convoluted thinkers and the most alpha of them all is Arran. Known as the “Devil of Jedburgh” he is a vicious fighter who will do whatever it takes to secure his family’s hold on its land, Ferniehirst. Even if it means marrying an ugly, stout woman to give birth to his sons. He’s even found the perfect woman, Breghan McAllen. Her mother had given birth to 12 sons and one daughter. Too bad for him Breghan plans to be brood mare to no man.
There were a few nail-biting moments in The Devil of Jedburgh. I was concerned with how Breghan would confront the issue between her and Arran. There really was only one way to do so, but it involved Breghan tricking her hero. In reality I hate women who do as Breghan did. Did it affect my enjoyment of the story? Yep. It lowered my opinion of Breghan and even though I know it was necessary to resolve the conflict, I found it a bit distasteful.
Before all the conflict began to be resolved I enjoyed every bit of tension. I liked watching the fiery heroine running from a future she wanted no part of and I smiled as she found a way to make peace with the idea of being a woman of her time period. I even teared up when Breghan had issues with her father. The characters are inviting and well-written. The setting is vivid. The Devil of Jedburgh is a straight up classic Scottish romance. It’s love and action rolled into a tale set in my favorite place, the highlands of Scotland.
There are political machinations (not my favorite plot line), misunderstandings and hints at a possible second book set in the same world. Overall, it’s a nice story. Again, my problem is with the sneaky, chick trick the heroine played on the hero to move the story forward toward a happily ever after. It is a dirty, underhanded thing to have done.
So now that I’ve made you want to know what she did it’s time for you to go buy the story. I don’t regret reading it and one day may read it again.
Scooper Speaks
Favorite Lines: “He wants to dally for a while afore choosing a more appropriate wife and I want to earn my freedom. We both win.” (p. 71, egalley)
Men are convoluted thinkers and the most alpha of them all is Arran. Known as the “Devil of Jedburgh” he is a vicious fighter who will do whatever it takes to secure his family’s hold on its land, Ferniehirst. Even if it means marrying an ugly, stout woman to give birth to his sons. He’s even found the perfect woman, Breghan McAllen. Her mother had given birth to 12 sons and one daughter. Too bad for him Breghan plans to be brood mare to no man.
There were a few nail-biting moments in The Devil of Jedburgh. I was concerned with how Breghan would confront the issue between her and Arran. There really was only one way to do so, but it involved Breghan tricking her hero. In reality I hate women who do as Breghan did. Did it affect my enjoyment of the story? Yep. It lowered my opinion of Breghan and even though I know it was necessary to resolve the conflict, I found it a bit distasteful.
Before all the conflict began to be resolved I enjoyed every bit of tension. I liked watching the fiery heroine running from a future she wanted no part of and I smiled as she found a way to make peace with the idea of being a woman of her time period. I even teared up when Breghan had issues with her father. The characters are inviting and well-written. The setting is vivid. The Devil of Jedburgh is a straight up classic Scottish romance. It’s love and action rolled into a tale set in my favorite place, the highlands of Scotland.
There are political machinations (not my favorite plot line), misunderstandings and hints at a possible second book set in the same world. Overall, it’s a nice story. Again, my problem is with the sneaky, chick trick the heroine played on the hero to move the story forward toward a happily ever after. It is a dirty, underhanded thing to have done.
So now that I’ve made you want to know what she did it’s time for you to go buy the story. I don’t regret reading it and one day may read it again.
Scooper Speaks
May 10, 2017
Ms. Robyns demonstrate an excellent command of historical detail in this romantic tale set in the midst of the royal intrigue of Queen Mary of Scotland’s court. The intertwining of actual characters with the fictional characters (and some dramatic scenes of the harsh cruelty of the age) contributes to the realism and magnetism of the growing relationship between spirited Breghan McAllen and the Devil of Jedburgh, Laird Arran Kerr.
Frightened by the dark rumours of the Laird’s reputation, Breghan runs away when her parents refuse to withdraw their marriage arrangement with the Devil…straight into the arms of a golden virile stranger!
From that first meeting between the fiery Breghan and the (deliciously) arrogant Arran, Ms.Robyns successfully tells a gentle and passionate love story threaded through with the danger of a threatening civil war.
I was quickly drawn into this richly detailed story: the tender but strong women who are more than a match for the brave, but tough, warriors who love as wildly as they fight.
This is a fast-paced, exciting read. THE DEVIL OF JEDBURGH transported me back into the heart of the Scottish Lowlands during a time when men would give their lives to protect their country and their families, and the women they loved were as brave as the warriors who fell in love with them.
A wonderful read, with plenty of heat between Arran and Breghan. This is the kind of romance I love reading.
Frightened by the dark rumours of the Laird’s reputation, Breghan runs away when her parents refuse to withdraw their marriage arrangement with the Devil…straight into the arms of a golden virile stranger!
From that first meeting between the fiery Breghan and the (deliciously) arrogant Arran, Ms.Robyns successfully tells a gentle and passionate love story threaded through with the danger of a threatening civil war.
I was quickly drawn into this richly detailed story: the tender but strong women who are more than a match for the brave, but tough, warriors who love as wildly as they fight.
This is a fast-paced, exciting read. THE DEVIL OF JEDBURGH transported me back into the heart of the Scottish Lowlands during a time when men would give their lives to protect their country and their families, and the women they loved were as brave as the warriors who fell in love with them.
A wonderful read, with plenty of heat between Arran and Breghan. This is the kind of romance I love reading.
June 20, 2012
A lovely read - good historical with passion, gripping plot and deep characters. The hero took me by surprise - he wasn't the usual cliche romantic hero, but I could see why the heroine loved him - he was sexy, fully male, passionate and real. It had smackerings of a 'beauty and the beast' theme which I love.
January 26, 2012
4.25 out of 5
March 10, 2013
Loved it!
January 7, 2021
To find this review and others visit http://www.wholelatteromance.blogspot...
Publisher: Carina Press
Published: February 6, 2012
ISBN: 9781426893162
Genre: Historical Romance
May I just say that I loved this novel. I didn't feel disappointed at any point during it. Claire Robyns' weaves a tale that has you unable to put the book down from the start. She's created vivid and lively characters that complement each other well.
The Blurb:
Raised on rumours of The Devil of Jedburgh, Breghan McAllen doesn't want an arranged marriage to the beast. The arrogant border laird is not the romantic, sophisticated husband Breghan dreams of, despite the heat he stirs within her.
In need of an heir, Arran has finally agreed to take a wife, but when he sees Breghan's fragile beauty, he's furious. He will not risk the life of another maiden by getting her with child. Lust prompts him to offer a compromise: necessary precautions, and handfasting for a year and a day, after which Breghan will be free. For a chance to control her own future, Breghan makes a deal with the Devil.
Passion quickly turns to love, but Arran still has no intention of keeping the lass, or making her a mother. He loves her too much to lose her. But when a treasonous plot threatens queen and country, Breghan has to prove only she is woman enough to stand by his side.
My Take:
Breghan, right from the beginning you can tell she's independent and full of life and imagination and even when confronted with her biggest fear, being married to the Devil of Jedburgh (just one of many names her betrothed has all referring to how evil he is), she takes him on only to find that though he can be infuriating, he really isn't evil and is in fact just what she's been looking for her.
Arran, what can I say about him, he's sexy and kind and authoritative and totally alpha without being too overbearing. You can truly feel his emotions and love for Bree and see his mind and heart tearing him in two different directions as he realizes that because he doesn't want to hurt her or see her killed, he can't bear to be apart from her either.
Both are afraid to fall for each other, knowing that eventually they'll have to part ways and I enjoyed the experience of watching these two grow both individually and as a couple.
This story kept you turning the pages and I don't believe I found a dull moment in it at all. If I did, then all the great parts far outweighed the dull parts so much so that they've left my mind. The author has a gift with words and the perfect voice for a historical romance. Normally, I have a hard time reading historical's that take place in Scotland due to the fact that some authors go a little heavy on the accents of their characters to the point of distraction. Ms. Robyns did not. She weaved just enough of their accents in so that you could hear the voices in you head and still enjoy the story.
The brief side stories of Bree's ladies maids finding their own romances were cute and charming and did not take away from the main storyline at all. I, for one, cannot wait for another story by Ms. Robyns.
My Rating: 4/5 Lattes
Publisher: Carina Press
Published: February 6, 2012
ISBN: 9781426893162
Genre: Historical Romance
May I just say that I loved this novel. I didn't feel disappointed at any point during it. Claire Robyns' weaves a tale that has you unable to put the book down from the start. She's created vivid and lively characters that complement each other well.
The Blurb:
Raised on rumours of The Devil of Jedburgh, Breghan McAllen doesn't want an arranged marriage to the beast. The arrogant border laird is not the romantic, sophisticated husband Breghan dreams of, despite the heat he stirs within her.
In need of an heir, Arran has finally agreed to take a wife, but when he sees Breghan's fragile beauty, he's furious. He will not risk the life of another maiden by getting her with child. Lust prompts him to offer a compromise: necessary precautions, and handfasting for a year and a day, after which Breghan will be free. For a chance to control her own future, Breghan makes a deal with the Devil.
Passion quickly turns to love, but Arran still has no intention of keeping the lass, or making her a mother. He loves her too much to lose her. But when a treasonous plot threatens queen and country, Breghan has to prove only she is woman enough to stand by his side.
My Take:
Breghan, right from the beginning you can tell she's independent and full of life and imagination and even when confronted with her biggest fear, being married to the Devil of Jedburgh (just one of many names her betrothed has all referring to how evil he is), she takes him on only to find that though he can be infuriating, he really isn't evil and is in fact just what she's been looking for her.
Arran, what can I say about him, he's sexy and kind and authoritative and totally alpha without being too overbearing. You can truly feel his emotions and love for Bree and see his mind and heart tearing him in two different directions as he realizes that because he doesn't want to hurt her or see her killed, he can't bear to be apart from her either.
Both are afraid to fall for each other, knowing that eventually they'll have to part ways and I enjoyed the experience of watching these two grow both individually and as a couple.
This story kept you turning the pages and I don't believe I found a dull moment in it at all. If I did, then all the great parts far outweighed the dull parts so much so that they've left my mind. The author has a gift with words and the perfect voice for a historical romance. Normally, I have a hard time reading historical's that take place in Scotland due to the fact that some authors go a little heavy on the accents of their characters to the point of distraction. Ms. Robyns did not. She weaved just enough of their accents in so that you could hear the voices in you head and still enjoy the story.
The brief side stories of Bree's ladies maids finding their own romances were cute and charming and did not take away from the main storyline at all. I, for one, cannot wait for another story by Ms. Robyns.
My Rating: 4/5 Lattes
June 27, 2018
I absolutely loved this book. Claire Robyns has an amazing way of telling the story, creating relationships btw the characters that are so realistic and genuine in their interactions that you can’t help but be drawn into their lives. From the very first few pages I was sucked into the story and found it nearly impossible to stop reading for the basic necessities of life! The more I read, the more I wished the book and story would go on. Even in that I think the length of the story was perfect, not to short or too long, dragging on. So even though I’m sad it’s come to an end, I loved that too...I’m a sucker for a “happily ever after” kind of ending..
Now I’m just sad for whatever I’m going to read next, bcs it will take awhile to stop comparing things to such a well written story!
Now I’m just sad for whatever I’m going to read next, bcs it will take awhile to stop comparing things to such a well written story!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2012
See all my reviews at http://www.readingreality.net/
The Devil of Jedburgh is a title granted by superstition to Arran Kerr in Claire Robyns' historical romance set in the Scottish Lowlands during Mary, Queen of Scots reign. There are no actual devils or demons involved. But if you have a taste for historical romance, this story is wickedly good.
Breghan McAllen's father has promised Arran Kerr of Ferniehurst that he will give his daughter to him in marriage. The marriage will unite two of the strongest families in the Scottish Lowlands, families that are both loyal to Mary, Queen of Scots.
Bree is 19 years old, and has been indulged by her parents all of her life. She is the youngest of her parents' 13 children, and the only daughter. She's a little spoiled and a little wild. And she's scared to death of marrying Arran Kerr.
Not because she's afraid of men (she has 12 older brothers, after all). She's not afraid of marriage itself. Or sex. She's still a virgin, which is expected in that time for a woman of her class, but again, 12 older brothers, and there are horses and cattle and sheep. Some of her older brothers are married. She's not stupid. Far from it.
But Arran Kerr is known far and wide as the Black-Hearted Kerr. The Curse of Roxburgh. Or the Devil of Jedburgh.
Breghan does not want to marry the demon-spawn who acquired all those horrible names.
Arran, on the other hand, wants to marry the daughter of Laird McAllen's wife. Not because he's ever met the Lady McAllen. Or her daughter. But because Lady McAllen gave her Laird 12 strapping sons and lived. Arran's met some of the sons, and the Laird himself. Arran assumes the Lady must be a big, buxom woman to survive that much childbearing. And that's just what he needs. He doesn't care what her daughter looks like.
All those nicknames? Arran can be the very devil in battle. But that's not unusual for the Scottish borderlands during the 1500s. His real problem is that he believes there is a curse on the Kerrs. He is the last of the Kerrs of Ferniehurst. Because of the curse. The curse that all of the Kerr women, wives or not, die in childbirth with the baby.
So the rumor that Arran killed his mother? Well, it's true. After a fashion. His mother died in childbirth. His birth. Not that death in childbirth was uncommon in the 1500s.
But Arran believes in the curse. So he wants to marry McAllen's daughter, thinking that the McAllen women must be veritable brood mares, not just capable of bearing an entire clan all by themselves, but looking like it, too. Arran figures he'll just blow the candle out every night.
That's what he tells Breghan when he meets her. While she's running away--from marrying him. She tells him that her name is "Bree" and claims to be, well, her own servant. And Arran takes one look at her and falls, well, deeply in lust, at the very least. But decides he can't have her, even to dally with, because of that curse. Because Bree isn't big and buxom. She's feminine enough, but on the slim and athletic side. (We'd call her a tomboy today.)
In the morning Arran arrives at the McAllen home, after Bree has run away from him. Again. Only to discover that 1) Bree is the woman he was supposed to marry and 2) the Lady McAllen is built along the same lines as her daughter, in spite of that fine brood of strapping sons, and 3) he wants Bree anyway, in spite of, or because of, her defiant spirit. At least for a while, and he'll have his sons with some broodmare of a woman, later.
Arran and Bree are handfast by the priest who was supposed to marry them. A handfast was a trial marriage. A year and a day, unless there was a child. (Handfastings did exist, and were quite legal.)
Arran and Bree go into the marriage with very different expectations. Arran expects to have Bree, just for a while. Then find some other woman, and quite probably have her die in childbirth. He already cares too much for Bree to let her die bearing his child.
Bree has Arran's word that after the year is over, he will let her go, and let her marry whoever she wishes. Her dream is to live in Edinburgh, to live a relatively civilized life in the city and be near Court.
So Arran brings Bree to Ferniehurst as his handfast Lady. And Bree discovers that the fearsome "devil of Jedburgh" is not quite as black as the rumors have painted him. But the Court in Edinburgh, that, on the other hand, might be worse than any evil she ever imagined.
Escape Rating B+: There's a lot going on in this love story. It's complicated and it mixes in some very real history from a period that has always fascinated me. Which is what made me get seriously sucked in to the story.
First there's the love story between Arran and Bree. These are two really strong-willed people. They both think they can have their trial marriage and walk away unscathed after the "year and a day". Watching them learn otherwise is a major part of the fun in this story. They both need to learn a few lessons before they're right for each other. But watching their journey is very much worth reading!
The icing on the cake for me was the events that occur in Edinburgh. This story ties into some of the real history of Mary, Queen of Scots and her second husband Henry, Lord Darnley. This period of Scottish and English history has always been one of my favorites, so visiting again was a special treat for me, even if Arran's and Bree's involvement with the Court was somewhat problematic for them.
The Devil of Jedburgh is a title granted by superstition to Arran Kerr in Claire Robyns' historical romance set in the Scottish Lowlands during Mary, Queen of Scots reign. There are no actual devils or demons involved. But if you have a taste for historical romance, this story is wickedly good.
Breghan McAllen's father has promised Arran Kerr of Ferniehurst that he will give his daughter to him in marriage. The marriage will unite two of the strongest families in the Scottish Lowlands, families that are both loyal to Mary, Queen of Scots.
Bree is 19 years old, and has been indulged by her parents all of her life. She is the youngest of her parents' 13 children, and the only daughter. She's a little spoiled and a little wild. And she's scared to death of marrying Arran Kerr.
Not because she's afraid of men (she has 12 older brothers, after all). She's not afraid of marriage itself. Or sex. She's still a virgin, which is expected in that time for a woman of her class, but again, 12 older brothers, and there are horses and cattle and sheep. Some of her older brothers are married. She's not stupid. Far from it.
But Arran Kerr is known far and wide as the Black-Hearted Kerr. The Curse of Roxburgh. Or the Devil of Jedburgh.
Breghan does not want to marry the demon-spawn who acquired all those horrible names.
Arran, on the other hand, wants to marry the daughter of Laird McAllen's wife. Not because he's ever met the Lady McAllen. Or her daughter. But because Lady McAllen gave her Laird 12 strapping sons and lived. Arran's met some of the sons, and the Laird himself. Arran assumes the Lady must be a big, buxom woman to survive that much childbearing. And that's just what he needs. He doesn't care what her daughter looks like.
All those nicknames? Arran can be the very devil in battle. But that's not unusual for the Scottish borderlands during the 1500s. His real problem is that he believes there is a curse on the Kerrs. He is the last of the Kerrs of Ferniehurst. Because of the curse. The curse that all of the Kerr women, wives or not, die in childbirth with the baby.
So the rumor that Arran killed his mother? Well, it's true. After a fashion. His mother died in childbirth. His birth. Not that death in childbirth was uncommon in the 1500s.
But Arran believes in the curse. So he wants to marry McAllen's daughter, thinking that the McAllen women must be veritable brood mares, not just capable of bearing an entire clan all by themselves, but looking like it, too. Arran figures he'll just blow the candle out every night.
That's what he tells Breghan when he meets her. While she's running away--from marrying him. She tells him that her name is "Bree" and claims to be, well, her own servant. And Arran takes one look at her and falls, well, deeply in lust, at the very least. But decides he can't have her, even to dally with, because of that curse. Because Bree isn't big and buxom. She's feminine enough, but on the slim and athletic side. (We'd call her a tomboy today.)
In the morning Arran arrives at the McAllen home, after Bree has run away from him. Again. Only to discover that 1) Bree is the woman he was supposed to marry and 2) the Lady McAllen is built along the same lines as her daughter, in spite of that fine brood of strapping sons, and 3) he wants Bree anyway, in spite of, or because of, her defiant spirit. At least for a while, and he'll have his sons with some broodmare of a woman, later.
Arran and Bree are handfast by the priest who was supposed to marry them. A handfast was a trial marriage. A year and a day, unless there was a child. (Handfastings did exist, and were quite legal.)
Arran and Bree go into the marriage with very different expectations. Arran expects to have Bree, just for a while. Then find some other woman, and quite probably have her die in childbirth. He already cares too much for Bree to let her die bearing his child.
Bree has Arran's word that after the year is over, he will let her go, and let her marry whoever she wishes. Her dream is to live in Edinburgh, to live a relatively civilized life in the city and be near Court.
So Arran brings Bree to Ferniehurst as his handfast Lady. And Bree discovers that the fearsome "devil of Jedburgh" is not quite as black as the rumors have painted him. But the Court in Edinburgh, that, on the other hand, might be worse than any evil she ever imagined.
Escape Rating B+: There's a lot going on in this love story. It's complicated and it mixes in some very real history from a period that has always fascinated me. Which is what made me get seriously sucked in to the story.
First there's the love story between Arran and Bree. These are two really strong-willed people. They both think they can have their trial marriage and walk away unscathed after the "year and a day". Watching them learn otherwise is a major part of the fun in this story. They both need to learn a few lessons before they're right for each other. But watching their journey is very much worth reading!
The icing on the cake for me was the events that occur in Edinburgh. This story ties into some of the real history of Mary, Queen of Scots and her second husband Henry, Lord Darnley. This period of Scottish and English history has always been one of my favorites, so visiting again was a special treat for me, even if Arran's and Bree's involvement with the Court was somewhat problematic for them.
February 14, 2012
3.5 Stars
The beautiful Breghan McAllen has been having nightmare about the Devil of Jedburgh since she was a child, so when she finds out she is to wed him, she finds herself giving serious consideration to running away. But, whilst on a long ride she unknowingly runs into him. Arran, Devil of Jedburgh needs a wife, a sturdy wife who will bear him sons and daughters without imperiling their lifes. Breghan, however, with her slender beauty isn't what he is looking for despite the raging desire and the growing respect he has for her fiery nature. Instead they agree to a handfasting for a year and a day, but will either of them be able to walk away once the year is out?
Another book with a verra sexy yet troubled Laird, I can't get enough of 'em! This was an entertaining read, although it wasn't something that WOWed me. Arran, although he did annoy me by being too overbearing at times, was pretty swoonworthy, and Bree, again, although she had a few moments that peeved me, was a likable character. The romance between them was surprisingly sweet, but they were still had plenty of sexual chemistry going on and the sex scenes were hot.
Also mentioned quite frequently in this books were the politics of the time. Although I do like the book to have a sense and feel of the time it is set in, it didn't seem necessary to add that level of detail and to involve the characters as much as it did, perhaps I wouldn't have felt this way if the way the political climate was explained wasn't quite so dry, it was all long conversations inwhich I felt my eyes start to glaze over until it got back to the Bree and Arran parts.
But, this book also had a secondary romance! I love secondary romances, although it didn't get very much page time, it still made an impression and their HEA was important to me as well.
A good read, especially if you like Scottish romances and sexy arrogant Lairds, however, it isn't a book that sticks out for me in this genre.
The beautiful Breghan McAllen has been having nightmare about the Devil of Jedburgh since she was a child, so when she finds out she is to wed him, she finds herself giving serious consideration to running away. But, whilst on a long ride she unknowingly runs into him. Arran, Devil of Jedburgh needs a wife, a sturdy wife who will bear him sons and daughters without imperiling their lifes. Breghan, however, with her slender beauty isn't what he is looking for despite the raging desire and the growing respect he has for her fiery nature. Instead they agree to a handfasting for a year and a day, but will either of them be able to walk away once the year is out?
Another book with a verra sexy yet troubled Laird, I can't get enough of 'em! This was an entertaining read, although it wasn't something that WOWed me. Arran, although he did annoy me by being too overbearing at times, was pretty swoonworthy, and Bree, again, although she had a few moments that peeved me, was a likable character. The romance between them was surprisingly sweet, but they were still had plenty of sexual chemistry going on and the sex scenes were hot.
Also mentioned quite frequently in this books were the politics of the time. Although I do like the book to have a sense and feel of the time it is set in, it didn't seem necessary to add that level of detail and to involve the characters as much as it did, perhaps I wouldn't have felt this way if the way the political climate was explained wasn't quite so dry, it was all long conversations inwhich I felt my eyes start to glaze over until it got back to the Bree and Arran parts.
But, this book also had a secondary romance! I love secondary romances, although it didn't get very much page time, it still made an impression and their HEA was important to me as well.
A good read, especially if you like Scottish romances and sexy arrogant Lairds, however, it isn't a book that sticks out for me in this genre.
February 18, 2012
Breghan McAllen decides to leave her home when he father insists she marry Arran Kerr (aka The Devil of Jedburgh). She has heard all the rumors about him, how he murders women, killed his own mother and in general is considered the devil himself. Unfortunately for her, circumstances didn't bode in her favor and instead of marrying Arran she ends up hand-fasted to him for a year. Her father promised that if she remained hand-fasted for the year that when she returned she could pick and choose her own man to woo her.
To me, there was a reminiscent tale of the beauty and the beast. Arran of course was the beast, but that was just what people thought. When the truth started becoming clearer, it was obvious that Arran was nothing but a good man that bad things happened to. He acted like a bear, and was definitely a tortured hero, but there was nothing evil about him. From the beginning I liked Breghan, and I loved that although she was terrified of the image of Arran, she tried hard to learn the truth of him. And then she pushed other people to look past the stories and learn the truth.
I also loved that she wasn't afraid of her own sexuality, sometimes in historical romances women are so innocent and can't accept the marriage bed. But although Bree was an innocent she also accepted that she liked sex and that she wanted it with Arran. That was a refreshing perspective.
One the back burner was the story of the Queen versus the King. I wasn't that interested in all the political jumbo going on and I actually felt that took away from the romance in the story. Although it did create a few tense situations that I found intriguing, for the most part there was a lot of talking going on.
Other than that minor issue, I really enjoyed the story and I will definitely read other books by this author.
Thanks to netgalley for providing this copy to me to read and review at the compliments of Carina Press.
To me, there was a reminiscent tale of the beauty and the beast. Arran of course was the beast, but that was just what people thought. When the truth started becoming clearer, it was obvious that Arran was nothing but a good man that bad things happened to. He acted like a bear, and was definitely a tortured hero, but there was nothing evil about him. From the beginning I liked Breghan, and I loved that although she was terrified of the image of Arran, she tried hard to learn the truth of him. And then she pushed other people to look past the stories and learn the truth.
I also loved that she wasn't afraid of her own sexuality, sometimes in historical romances women are so innocent and can't accept the marriage bed. But although Bree was an innocent she also accepted that she liked sex and that she wanted it with Arran. That was a refreshing perspective.
One the back burner was the story of the Queen versus the King. I wasn't that interested in all the political jumbo going on and I actually felt that took away from the romance in the story. Although it did create a few tense situations that I found intriguing, for the most part there was a lot of talking going on.
Other than that minor issue, I really enjoyed the story and I will definitely read other books by this author.
Thanks to netgalley for providing this copy to me to read and review at the compliments of Carina Press.
April 3, 2012
The only thing worse than being handfasted to the Devil of Jedburgh was falling in love with him.
Cresciuta con i pettegolezzi che circolano sull’immagine del Diavolo di Jedburgh, Breghan McAllen non vuole un matrimonio d’interessi con quella bestia. Quell’arrogante signorotto dei confini non è il marito romantico e sofisticato che lei sogna… nonstante il calore che riesce a farle provare.
Avendo bisogno di un erede, Arran si è finalmente detto d’accordo a prendere moglie, ma quando vede la fragile bellezza di Breghan, è furibondo. Non rischierà la vita di un’altra ragazza innocente mettendola incinta. Il desiderio però lo spinge ad offrire un compromesso: precauzioni, e un handfasting che li legherà per un anno e un giorno, dopo di chè Breghan sarà libera.
Per la possibilità di controllare il suo destino, Breghan fa un patto col Diavolo. Ma la passione presto si trasforma in amore, eppure Arran non ha nessuna intenzione di tenerla con sè, o di renderla madre. La ama troppo per rischiare di perderla. Ma quando un tradimento minaccia la regina e il paese, Breghan dovrà provare che è abbastanza donna per restare al suo fianco.
Devo dire che all’inizio ho apprezzato i dialoghi arguti fra i protagonisti, anche se il piacere si è presto tramutato in noia quando la trama è diventata scontata e confusionaria. Ad una storia romantica come tante, ambientate nella scozia del 1700, si aggiunge una continua confusione durante gli stacchi temporali, mal programmati e improvvisi, ed una certa irragionevoleza nel pretendere che il lettore “sappia” cose che probabilmente la scrittrice sapeva, mentre scriveva il romanzo, e noi no. Per questo motivo il mio godimento di questo libro è stato altamente dimuito. Peccato, aveva potenzialità.
Si ringraziano NetGalley e Carina Press per la gentile preview.
Cresciuta con i pettegolezzi che circolano sull’immagine del Diavolo di Jedburgh, Breghan McAllen non vuole un matrimonio d’interessi con quella bestia. Quell’arrogante signorotto dei confini non è il marito romantico e sofisticato che lei sogna… nonstante il calore che riesce a farle provare.
Avendo bisogno di un erede, Arran si è finalmente detto d’accordo a prendere moglie, ma quando vede la fragile bellezza di Breghan, è furibondo. Non rischierà la vita di un’altra ragazza innocente mettendola incinta. Il desiderio però lo spinge ad offrire un compromesso: precauzioni, e un handfasting che li legherà per un anno e un giorno, dopo di chè Breghan sarà libera.
Per la possibilità di controllare il suo destino, Breghan fa un patto col Diavolo. Ma la passione presto si trasforma in amore, eppure Arran non ha nessuna intenzione di tenerla con sè, o di renderla madre. La ama troppo per rischiare di perderla. Ma quando un tradimento minaccia la regina e il paese, Breghan dovrà provare che è abbastanza donna per restare al suo fianco.
Devo dire che all’inizio ho apprezzato i dialoghi arguti fra i protagonisti, anche se il piacere si è presto tramutato in noia quando la trama è diventata scontata e confusionaria. Ad una storia romantica come tante, ambientate nella scozia del 1700, si aggiunge una continua confusione durante gli stacchi temporali, mal programmati e improvvisi, ed una certa irragionevoleza nel pretendere che il lettore “sappia” cose che probabilmente la scrittrice sapeva, mentre scriveva il romanzo, e noi no. Per questo motivo il mio godimento di questo libro è stato altamente dimuito. Peccato, aveva potenzialità.
Si ringraziano NetGalley e Carina Press per la gentile preview.
July 19, 2016
This was a pretty good story. I am a complete sucker for anything to do with Scotland so I jumped at the chance to read this story from NetGalley.
Arran has a reputation, a HUGE reputation. He is known as the Devil of Jedburgh. Breghan's father sets up a marriage between the two of them and being afraid Breghan runs from her house the night before the wedding. She meant to cool her head and return but she gets shot by an arrow and is cared for by a gentleman and his two companions. When she finds out that the gentleman that helps her is the one that she is to marry she decides to hide her identity and try to get away.
I really liked Arran. Of course he is a strong man and he leads his people fairly, even if there is a lot of fear involved. He also has a lot of fears of his own. He is deeply attracted to Breghan and he wants to be with her but he is afraid. Breghan is so small of frame that his is afraid of ever letting her carry a child. Then there is an insecurity of her using the handfasting to barter with her dad for a future right to marry another man.
Breghan is the youngest in a large family of all boys. She has been immensely spoiled by both her parents and all of her brothers. She is quick to speak her opinion and is very sarcastic. She hates the idea of being forced into marriage and to top that she is now joined with the subject of all her darkest nightmares.
I loved reading the interaction between these two. It was cute how both characters wanted the other but the misunderstandings and pride would get in the way. This is a great romance and I loved that I could read their happily ever after.
Arran has a reputation, a HUGE reputation. He is known as the Devil of Jedburgh. Breghan's father sets up a marriage between the two of them and being afraid Breghan runs from her house the night before the wedding. She meant to cool her head and return but she gets shot by an arrow and is cared for by a gentleman and his two companions. When she finds out that the gentleman that helps her is the one that she is to marry she decides to hide her identity and try to get away.
I really liked Arran. Of course he is a strong man and he leads his people fairly, even if there is a lot of fear involved. He also has a lot of fears of his own. He is deeply attracted to Breghan and he wants to be with her but he is afraid. Breghan is so small of frame that his is afraid of ever letting her carry a child. Then there is an insecurity of her using the handfasting to barter with her dad for a future right to marry another man.
Breghan is the youngest in a large family of all boys. She has been immensely spoiled by both her parents and all of her brothers. She is quick to speak her opinion and is very sarcastic. She hates the idea of being forced into marriage and to top that she is now joined with the subject of all her darkest nightmares.
I loved reading the interaction between these two. It was cute how both characters wanted the other but the misunderstandings and pride would get in the way. This is a great romance and I loved that I could read their happily ever after.
December 23, 2016
I went into this expecting just another typical bodice ripper, but it ended up being so much more. I loved the Scottish history and the appearance of Queen Mary and a few other historical figures. My thing is royal history, so those details only sweetened the deal for me.
Hot, hot, hot love scenes! Arran is a swoon worthy brooding hero that will probably become your new book boyfriend. His issues and troubled past had the potential to be lame, but instead they were believable, heart wrenching, and well written.
Bree is my favorite kind of heroine. I know the feisty beautiful female tends to be overused in historicals, but I'd rather have that than a doormat. She was smart, witty, and willing to fight for love.
This book has it all, in my opinion. An actual plot stirred in amongst the very steamy, erotic love scenes, scarred brooding hero, independent heroine, and some awesome secondary characters.
Hot, hot, hot love scenes! Arran is a swoon worthy brooding hero that will probably become your new book boyfriend. His issues and troubled past had the potential to be lame, but instead they were believable, heart wrenching, and well written.
Bree is my favorite kind of heroine. I know the feisty beautiful female tends to be overused in historicals, but I'd rather have that than a doormat. She was smart, witty, and willing to fight for love.
This book has it all, in my opinion. An actual plot stirred in amongst the very steamy, erotic love scenes, scarred brooding hero, independent heroine, and some awesome secondary characters.
March 4, 2012
The Devil of Jedburgh was just OK. I liked the characters, especially Breghan. She was a strong woman who knew what she wanted and went for it. Arran was an alpha male but I found him to be a little too unyielding in his opinions and attitudes. The story had familiar elements and Claire Robyns did her research before including historical elements. If I had a problem with the story it was with historical political elements. The elements were correct but they seemed to be inserted without any build up and only included to provide an element of danger to Arran. I would have liked to see them part of the story from the first. In a romance it is not the destination but the journey and I found the journey to be a little uneven. Even so, all in all it was an entertaining historical romance.
February 8, 2012
I LOVED reading 'The Devil of Jedburgh'! It's a real page-turner, and has all the classic ingredients of a Scottish Medieval Romance: a dramatic plot with lots of spice and historical intrigue; a gorgeous hero (strong, sexy, arrogant, yet loyal and honourable); and a brave and feisty heroine who's determined to fight for the man she loves and the principles she holds dear. I found the characters in this book very engaging, and the dialogue was both witty and entertaining. The rich historical detail (clearly well-researched) adds a really authentic flavour to the story. If you're a fan of Scottish Medieval Romance, I can highly recommend this book, as well as Ms. Robyns' previous book of the same genre('Betrayed').
February 19, 2012
Enjoyed the witty conversation between Bree & Arran at the beginning, but soon Bree seemed spoiled and bratty. After a while, she was really getting on my nerves. I tolerated her.
Some points, love and sex, for example, were discussed and beaten to death. Others, like interactions with England or even certain omens (yule log), relatives, etc. were kind of just thrown out there and then dropped. The inclusion of the politics of the time seemed forced and I think the story would have been fine with more focus on the main characters.
There was a bit of action towards the end that made the end go quickly.
3 stars out of 5
Some points, love and sex, for example, were discussed and beaten to death. Others, like interactions with England or even certain omens (yule log), relatives, etc. were kind of just thrown out there and then dropped. The inclusion of the politics of the time seemed forced and I think the story would have been fine with more focus on the main characters.
There was a bit of action towards the end that made the end go quickly.
3 stars out of 5
October 22, 2015
the book started as a possible 4+ star and I very much enjoyed it but a few things left me disappointed, especially the heroine deciding by herself to get pregnant without talking to her hand-fasted husband. That was totally out of the line.
Still I enjoyed it and I will definitely check more book by this author.
Still I enjoyed it and I will definitely check more book by this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2012
3.25/3.5 full review to come soon
January 26, 2014
Took a long time for me to finish this book. The writing seemed flat and dry. I just didn't care for it.
March 28, 2015
I adored this book! there were funny parts, loving parts and it all blended well. the characters were just made for each other. I'm probably going to reread this several times.
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