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Her Highland Devil
A Highlander seeking revenge. A passionate Lady seeking true love. When they meet, they will soon realize that their search is over.
Lady Gabby MacKenzie has always sought adventure outside the beautiful but boring castle she was born into. Her free-thinking and daring nature has always caused her family trouble. When she is to marry her childhood friend, she will be forced to choose between her family and her desire for true love.
However, the war with the Highlanders will change the plans laid out for her. A horde of barbaric soldiers invades her home. Their plan to rape and kill everyone in Hawkshire is altered when their chief finds a greater prize - her. Callum’s reputation proceeds him – the Devil of the Highlands. He has lost his betrothed by an English hand and so he has vowed to hate and kill every one of them.
However, this red-haired English beauty that his father has brought for him to marry will put his resolve to the test. What will happen when the two of them realize that the true enemy isn’t whom they thought it was…but someone close, lurking in the shadows?
Lady Gabby MacKenzie has always sought adventure outside the beautiful but boring castle she was born into. Her free-thinking and daring nature has always caused her family trouble. When she is to marry her childhood friend, she will be forced to choose between her family and her desire for true love.
However, the war with the Highlanders will change the plans laid out for her. A horde of barbaric soldiers invades her home. Their plan to rape and kill everyone in Hawkshire is altered when their chief finds a greater prize - her. Callum’s reputation proceeds him – the Devil of the Highlands. He has lost his betrothed by an English hand and so he has vowed to hate and kill every one of them.
However, this red-haired English beauty that his father has brought for him to marry will put his resolve to the test. What will happen when the two of them realize that the true enemy isn’t whom they thought it was…but someone close, lurking in the shadows?
347 pages, Paperback
Published December 16, 2024
166 people are currently reading
70 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Bard
88 books286 followersBarbara Bard was born in the Highlands of Scotland but moved to the United States and was raised in the sweltering heat of New Orleans. She studied at Emory University in Atlanta and has worked as a journalist for a small press.
Barbara’s partner is descended from Scottish ancestors and she has been fascinated with all things Scottish for many years. That interest has also helped to propel a blossoming writing career and she is now working on novels with a historical Scottish romance flavor.
The first in her series follows the exploits of the Baird and McCall clans and is full of the type of brave warrior heroes that are romanticized of that era, while her books about the MacDougal clan have a more magic and paranormal feel to them.
When she isn’t working or writing her next book, Barbara enjoys yoga and traveling to new and exciting places. She loves nothing better than immersing herself in the culture of another country and getting to know some of the locals.
Barbara hopes that her novels will soon become self-sustaining and provide her with the full-time career she has always wanted.
Barbara’s partner is descended from Scottish ancestors and she has been fascinated with all things Scottish for many years. That interest has also helped to propel a blossoming writing career and she is now working on novels with a historical Scottish romance flavor.
The first in her series follows the exploits of the Baird and McCall clans and is full of the type of brave warrior heroes that are romanticized of that era, while her books about the MacDougal clan have a more magic and paranormal feel to them.
When she isn’t working or writing her next book, Barbara enjoys yoga and traveling to new and exciting places. She loves nothing better than immersing herself in the culture of another country and getting to know some of the locals.
Barbara hopes that her novels will soon become self-sustaining and provide her with the full-time career she has always wanted.
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January 19, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/19/2021)! 🎁
July 10, 2019
ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE!!!
OMG! Talk about down and out. All the twists and turns, ups and downs, ins and outs, along with a few glitches here and there make for one thrilling experience. One incredible, pulse racing, smooth flowing read with such a compelling storyline and gripping plot that brings this little gem to life beautifully. Barbara brings all of your emotions swirling into play so realistically it's easy to get swept away. So turbulent and swift with so much heart, strenght and uncertainty that leaves you reeling waiting for the next shoe to drop. It grabs your attention from the start and steals your heart in turn. You feel what the characters feel. All the drama, a little mystery and suspense increases steadily while tension spirals. The characters and scenes are written with such realism it makes a perfect backdrop for this amazing read. Incredible job Barbara, thanks for sharing this little treasure with us.
OMG! Talk about down and out. All the twists and turns, ups and downs, ins and outs, along with a few glitches here and there make for one thrilling experience. One incredible, pulse racing, smooth flowing read with such a compelling storyline and gripping plot that brings this little gem to life beautifully. Barbara brings all of your emotions swirling into play so realistically it's easy to get swept away. So turbulent and swift with so much heart, strenght and uncertainty that leaves you reeling waiting for the next shoe to drop. It grabs your attention from the start and steals your heart in turn. You feel what the characters feel. All the drama, a little mystery and suspense increases steadily while tension spirals. The characters and scenes are written with such realism it makes a perfect backdrop for this amazing read. Incredible job Barbara, thanks for sharing this little treasure with us.
July 13, 2020
The elements are there but nothing connects them in any reasonable sense
I like Barbara Bard, I really do but this book is as dry as the Sahara desert, definitely one of her worst that I have read.
There is nothing to connect to and no characters to really care about, motives make no sense and people change just because the plot needs them to, without any growth or logic behind it.
(*examples given below might be SPOILERS*)
The storyline. If I just write it in a few short points, nothing looks amiss but then you read the book and you see nothing actually connects the plot threads and there is no logic behind things happening and everything happens just to connect one point to another disregarding any common sense known to humans.
Example: So this kidnapped woman who was taken deep into Scotland allegedly writes home to telltale about the weakness in the defence of this estate and her father receives the letter and rides of to see the king to get support and gets back home with it and manages to go rescue his daughter in the span of three days and he somehow manages this great feat and since the highlanders were surprised and unprepared they weren't really defending and instead of the English (remember, the King's troops are also there) invading and fully defeating them after their Laird has been beaten to a bloody pulp in front of everyone (and they don't kill him for some reason), no, they just get this insignificant woman and leave. Ah, yes, makes sense (notice the irony).
The characters. What a bunch of dry stale cookie cutter characters. They are not believable, they are not like real humans, we do not connect to them, they are just cardboard printouts to stand there as the so called plot happens around them. I have no idea how this good author have managed to spit out such bland idiotic pieces of s... *coughs... let's be civil here. How she managed to produce these, these ehm... characters in name only. There is nothing about them that makes them believable, it's horrible. They are awful people and only act a certain way when the plot needs them to.
Example 1: Gabby, the main female character, is supposed to be some kind of a progressive thinker in the area where she lives but then people tell her that Highlanders drink blood and eat human flesh and she believes it fully without a second thought. Or she is supposed to be a strong woman who was kidnapped and forced into marriage but then resists and all we see how upset she is that the husband doesn't immediately boink her right there and then.
Example 2: Callum, the main male character, is supposed to be this scarred wounded Highlander whose love died some years back and his world crushed then and he was left a shell of a man and then we see he immediately boinked the dead woman's best friend and kept on boinking her until this English woman disrupted his life somewhat. Such an upstanding good man that is. Totally don't want him to die a horrible death, nope, totally not.
Example 3: Callum's father needs his son to marry so he will secure his future Laird position and it has to be done immediately for some inexplicable reason and so instead of him trying to find him a Highlander woman and takes a bit more time, he just raids an English estate and kidnaps a woman there and thinks that is a good idea. How is that logical to begin with? When bunch of things just make no sense to begin with, how am I supposed to care about any of it?
Characters continuously do a 180 turn whenever the plot calls for it and it's painfully aggravating.
Example 1: Gabby's fiance whom she was supposed to marry (forcefully as well) was her childhood friend whom she saw as a brother. He wanted her and pushed himself on her much worse than the Highlander later on. He did not want to listen to one word she said, no objection or complaint. When Gabby is kidnapped and taken he told her she must be glad she is being kidnapped to get her adventure and laughs evilly. When she is mistakenly brought back, he pushes himself on her again and basically forces her to marry him, again. And then on the wedding day when she is already there somewhat willing, he does a 180 and just says that there are people outside who will escort her back to Scotland. What the actual f*ck? He did not develop as a character in the meantime and nothing happened to him to change his awful almost-rapey behaviour from before. He just becomes a saint so she can be delivered back to her husband.
Example 2: Callum does not give two s$its about Gabby when she is married to him, he even goes to be with his mistress (the dead fiancees best friend if you remember), and tells to Gabby that it is normal for men to have mistresses and he can do as he pleases, then he suddenly loves her a chapter later. Ah yes... love at a hundredth sight that must be.
I could go on and on like this for the whole night. Characters do things just because the plot needs them to. There is nothing to them, they are hollow, empty, non-existent.
There are so many plot points that lead to nothing and waste time that keep coming back to me as I write that I still don't understand how is this possible coming from the great Barbara Bard. Absolutely dumbfounding.
Skip if you can, if you must read it then be prepared to be extremely annoyed. I am not giving it a 1* because it is still written better than some other things I have read, looking more from a technical standpoint but there are really no good points I could now think of and point out. I am just so disappointed and... well... unhappy.
I like Barbara Bard, I really do but this book is as dry as the Sahara desert, definitely one of her worst that I have read.
There is nothing to connect to and no characters to really care about, motives make no sense and people change just because the plot needs them to, without any growth or logic behind it.
(*examples given below might be SPOILERS*)
The storyline. If I just write it in a few short points, nothing looks amiss but then you read the book and you see nothing actually connects the plot threads and there is no logic behind things happening and everything happens just to connect one point to another disregarding any common sense known to humans.
Example: So this kidnapped woman who was taken deep into Scotland allegedly writes home to telltale about the weakness in the defence of this estate and her father receives the letter and rides of to see the king to get support and gets back home with it and manages to go rescue his daughter in the span of three days and he somehow manages this great feat and since the highlanders were surprised and unprepared they weren't really defending and instead of the English (remember, the King's troops are also there) invading and fully defeating them after their Laird has been beaten to a bloody pulp in front of everyone (and they don't kill him for some reason), no, they just get this insignificant woman and leave. Ah, yes, makes sense (notice the irony).
The characters. What a bunch of dry stale cookie cutter characters. They are not believable, they are not like real humans, we do not connect to them, they are just cardboard printouts to stand there as the so called plot happens around them. I have no idea how this good author have managed to spit out such bland idiotic pieces of s... *coughs... let's be civil here. How she managed to produce these, these ehm... characters in name only. There is nothing about them that makes them believable, it's horrible. They are awful people and only act a certain way when the plot needs them to.
Example 1: Gabby, the main female character, is supposed to be some kind of a progressive thinker in the area where she lives but then people tell her that Highlanders drink blood and eat human flesh and she believes it fully without a second thought. Or she is supposed to be a strong woman who was kidnapped and forced into marriage but then resists and all we see how upset she is that the husband doesn't immediately boink her right there and then.
Example 2: Callum, the main male character, is supposed to be this scarred wounded Highlander whose love died some years back and his world crushed then and he was left a shell of a man and then we see he immediately boinked the dead woman's best friend and kept on boinking her until this English woman disrupted his life somewhat. Such an upstanding good man that is. Totally don't want him to die a horrible death, nope, totally not.
Example 3: Callum's father needs his son to marry so he will secure his future Laird position and it has to be done immediately for some inexplicable reason and so instead of him trying to find him a Highlander woman and takes a bit more time, he just raids an English estate and kidnaps a woman there and thinks that is a good idea. How is that logical to begin with? When bunch of things just make no sense to begin with, how am I supposed to care about any of it?
Characters continuously do a 180 turn whenever the plot calls for it and it's painfully aggravating.
Example 1: Gabby's fiance whom she was supposed to marry (forcefully as well) was her childhood friend whom she saw as a brother. He wanted her and pushed himself on her much worse than the Highlander later on. He did not want to listen to one word she said, no objection or complaint. When Gabby is kidnapped and taken he told her she must be glad she is being kidnapped to get her adventure and laughs evilly. When she is mistakenly brought back, he pushes himself on her again and basically forces her to marry him, again. And then on the wedding day when she is already there somewhat willing, he does a 180 and just says that there are people outside who will escort her back to Scotland. What the actual f*ck? He did not develop as a character in the meantime and nothing happened to him to change his awful almost-rapey behaviour from before. He just becomes a saint so she can be delivered back to her husband.
Example 2: Callum does not give two s$its about Gabby when she is married to him, he even goes to be with his mistress (the dead fiancees best friend if you remember), and tells to Gabby that it is normal for men to have mistresses and he can do as he pleases, then he suddenly loves her a chapter later. Ah yes... love at a hundredth sight that must be.
I could go on and on like this for the whole night. Characters do things just because the plot needs them to. There is nothing to them, they are hollow, empty, non-existent.
There are so many plot points that lead to nothing and waste time that keep coming back to me as I write that I still don't understand how is this possible coming from the great Barbara Bard. Absolutely dumbfounding.
Skip if you can, if you must read it then be prepared to be extremely annoyed. I am not giving it a 1* because it is still written better than some other things I have read, looking more from a technical standpoint but there are really no good points I could now think of and point out. I am just so disappointed and... well... unhappy.
April 29, 2020
2.5 STARS
I purchased this as part of a 3 novel bundle the author offered called THE SECRETS OF A HIGHLAND HEART.
I was like the author decided to ruin her ending after setting up a terrific story. I am still dumbfounded over the turn of events which I will explain later.
There are editing problems - but not enough to make me scratch my head.
I didn't care for the h in the beginning. She was selfish and didn't even want to know the people in her village or where she lived.
It was confusing how they kept switching from calling his cousin to brother and vice versa. Then the H's father he was called by the cousin - father or uncle at times. This was very confusing. They were not brothers in the blood sense. I've read many Highland stories and this has never been done before.
The term okay was used and it wasn't a phrase until mid 1810, the series is set in 1718. WOW was used and I was surprised the term was somewhat used in the 1500's.
The H has a mistress who use to be best friends with his almost wife. Now he has no trouble bedding her, but he does his wife - he feels guilty. HELLO - you should feel more guilty taking her ex-betroths best friend to bed, not
your wife.
Now to the part that really ruined the story for me. SPOILER - SPOILER - After our H/h have fallen in love, there is betrayal and the H believes the h is guilty. The H is severely injured as she is taken. She goes back home, not worrying if her husband is alive. She makes plans to marry a man she was to marry before the H takes her. HELLO - you are already married. Nothing was mentioned if the marriage in Scotland wasn't considered valid - maybe it wasn't but this was never discussed or explained to the reader. Totally ruined how easily they both forgot their feelings, especially the h.
END OF SPOILER
There is suspense, a couple fight scenes, romance builds slowly, tad of spice - heat level 3 out of 5, HEA, no cliffhanger and somewhat of adultery. After the H is married, he goes back to his mistress. Now they are in bed and his chest is bare so I am assuming they did the act - it is unclear. (ljb)
I purchased this as part of a 3 novel bundle the author offered called THE SECRETS OF A HIGHLAND HEART.
I was like the author decided to ruin her ending after setting up a terrific story. I am still dumbfounded over the turn of events which I will explain later.
There are editing problems - but not enough to make me scratch my head.
I didn't care for the h in the beginning. She was selfish and didn't even want to know the people in her village or where she lived.
It was confusing how they kept switching from calling his cousin to brother and vice versa. Then the H's father he was called by the cousin - father or uncle at times. This was very confusing. They were not brothers in the blood sense. I've read many Highland stories and this has never been done before.
The term okay was used and it wasn't a phrase until mid 1810, the series is set in 1718. WOW was used and I was surprised the term was somewhat used in the 1500's.
The H has a mistress who use to be best friends with his almost wife. Now he has no trouble bedding her, but he does his wife - he feels guilty. HELLO - you should feel more guilty taking her ex-betroths best friend to bed, not
your wife.
Now to the part that really ruined the story for me. SPOILER - SPOILER - After our H/h have fallen in love, there is betrayal and the H believes the h is guilty. The H is severely injured as she is taken. She goes back home, not worrying if her husband is alive. She makes plans to marry a man she was to marry before the H takes her. HELLO - you are already married. Nothing was mentioned if the marriage in Scotland wasn't considered valid - maybe it wasn't but this was never discussed or explained to the reader. Totally ruined how easily they both forgot their feelings, especially the h.
END OF SPOILER
There is suspense, a couple fight scenes, romance builds slowly, tad of spice - heat level 3 out of 5, HEA, no cliffhanger and somewhat of adultery. After the H is married, he goes back to his mistress. Now they are in bed and his chest is bare so I am assuming they did the act - it is unclear. (ljb)
June 11, 2020
Her Highland Devil: A Historical Scottish Highlander Romance Novel
This was a good book how ever I do wish the author had done more to make it more interesting.I look forward to reading more of this author's work.
This was a good book how ever I do wish the author had done more to make it more interesting.I look forward to reading more of this author's work.
June 25, 2020
Loved This Story So Much!
The only thing that bothered me is the book cover. Callum is blond and this dude has black hair!! That’s a NoNo! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this! Now on to the next one 💜💜💜💜🥰
The only thing that bothered me is the book cover. Callum is blond and this dude has black hair!! That’s a NoNo! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this! Now on to the next one 💜💜💜💜🥰
January 21, 2023
Callum and Gabby
Callum and Gabby's story started off with her being kidnapped from her English home to be brought to Scotland. The true love they found in each other was a lasting one for the both of them.
Callum and Gabby's story started off with her being kidnapped from her English home to be brought to Scotland. The true love they found in each other was a lasting one for the both of them.
October 23, 2021
The story jumped around constantly, and the Kindle formatting was horrible. It was formatted with large gaps after some sentences and paragraphs. Didn’t read like a polished book.
July 3, 2019
English against Scottish again I love the trope. In the beginning Gabby is set to marry Ronnie her childhood friend. This was something her father had arranged in an effort to strengthen defenses at the border should the Scots decide to attack.
Unfortunately Gabby was the last to get the information and received it by chance when she overheard her parents talking about it. She was not pleased. Lucky for her Laird Lachlan Ridell
had a plan to raid to get provisions to see his clan through the winter and get a bride for his son the future Laird. So she was spared from being married to Ronnie her best. Only to be married to Callum the Highland Devil.
Callum was unaware also and though his people were kind to her he was not.
I don’t like it when then Hero continues to bed his mistress after the wedding. Considering the circumstances around Gabby and Callum's marriage and he only did it once I was able to overlook it. Because he didn’t do it again and I knew she would cause trouble down the road. I did feel however it took him a long time to get past his guilt issue with his deceased love. When he did he made up for right up till chapter 22 where he was very quick to jump to conclusions and not even give Gabby chance to answer to his accusations. Now onto Gabby. She started out with so much promise but just like Callum around chapter 22 she lost her mind in chapter 23. In the beginning I found her to be sort of a doormat although she didn’t like the idea of marrying Ronnie she was going to go ahead and do it because that was what was expected of her. Later I liked the way she stood up to his mistress but at the same time I felt she was too easily taken in by his brother Malcolm. Once she was taken back home I wondered what happened to her love for Callum. She just fell back instep doing what was expected of her. For the love the almighty she had been married to Callum for months professed her love for him and had his in return. After all that had happened it was like oh well I don’t understand Callum believes the worst I’ll just marry Ronnie like they wanted me to after all he deserves to be happy. I wanted the slap oh my gosh this girl ugh ! She would make a good scarecrow in the Wizard of Oz. And about Ronnie he struck me as kind of a perv. I know it was a different era but for everyone to keep asking if she’s pregnant/a virgin right off the bat. Luckily someone back in Scotland wasn’t clueless so we we have a surprise reunion and a happy ever after with a lot of excitement in the middle. I really loved this book when an author can bring out so many emotions I’m hooked. I’m looking forward to Barbara Bard’s next book.
Unfortunately Gabby was the last to get the information and received it by chance when she overheard her parents talking about it. She was not pleased. Lucky for her Laird Lachlan Ridell
had a plan to raid to get provisions to see his clan through the winter and get a bride for his son the future Laird. So she was spared from being married to Ronnie her best. Only to be married to Callum the Highland Devil.
Callum was unaware also and though his people were kind to her he was not.
I don’t like it when then Hero continues to bed his mistress after the wedding. Considering the circumstances around Gabby and Callum's marriage and he only did it once I was able to overlook it. Because he didn’t do it again and I knew she would cause trouble down the road. I did feel however it took him a long time to get past his guilt issue with his deceased love. When he did he made up for right up till chapter 22 where he was very quick to jump to conclusions and not even give Gabby chance to answer to his accusations. Now onto Gabby. She started out with so much promise but just like Callum around chapter 22 she lost her mind in chapter 23. In the beginning I found her to be sort of a doormat although she didn’t like the idea of marrying Ronnie she was going to go ahead and do it because that was what was expected of her. Later I liked the way she stood up to his mistress but at the same time I felt she was too easily taken in by his brother Malcolm. Once she was taken back home I wondered what happened to her love for Callum. She just fell back instep doing what was expected of her. For the love the almighty she had been married to Callum for months professed her love for him and had his in return. After all that had happened it was like oh well I don’t understand Callum believes the worst I’ll just marry Ronnie like they wanted me to after all he deserves to be happy. I wanted the slap oh my gosh this girl ugh ! She would make a good scarecrow in the Wizard of Oz. And about Ronnie he struck me as kind of a perv. I know it was a different era but for everyone to keep asking if she’s pregnant/a virgin right off the bat. Luckily someone back in Scotland wasn’t clueless so we we have a surprise reunion and a happy ever after with a lot of excitement in the middle. I really loved this book when an author can bring out so many emotions I’m hooked. I’m looking forward to Barbara Bard’s next book.
July 5, 2019
Her Highland Devil by Barbara Bard is a true love story about Gabby and Callum. Gabby is a Scottish lady, daughter of an Earl, about to be betrothed to her childhood friend, Ronnie, who she just can't see romantically. Lachlan Ridell is a Scottish laird who has two sons, Callum and Malcolm, Callum was is blood son, and Malcolm was his brother's son; the brother who had been laird before him. Callum had lost his betrothed in the last war with the English and was so heartbroken that when he fought, he fought like the devil, and had become known by that name: The Devil. Callum kept a mistress and would have married her if his father would allow it. Lachlan was no longer healthy: his days were numbered. He needed to find a wife for his son. He knew just where to look: he led a raiding party to the home of the Earl, Gabby's father Three days later the siege was over and the Highlanders had won. All Lachlan asked for was Lady Gabby.
This is an endearing story of lost love and of one's willingness to sacrifice for the object of one's love. The characters are good, but flawed, as are real people. Gabby is slow to fall in love but when she does it is with her whole heart. She is not very good at reading other people so she comes away with the wrong impression, often. Callum is strong but not a great communicator. Malcolm lies in order to get what he wants, never worrying about the effects on others. This is a fairly realistic plot although Gabby's ease in giving up her marriage is disconcerting. All in all, it is a good story. One a reader will enjoy. My recommendations are hearty. You will enjoy it.
I received a free ARC of Her Highland Devil. All opinions expressed herein are solely my own.
This is an endearing story of lost love and of one's willingness to sacrifice for the object of one's love. The characters are good, but flawed, as are real people. Gabby is slow to fall in love but when she does it is with her whole heart. She is not very good at reading other people so she comes away with the wrong impression, often. Callum is strong but not a great communicator. Malcolm lies in order to get what he wants, never worrying about the effects on others. This is a fairly realistic plot although Gabby's ease in giving up her marriage is disconcerting. All in all, it is a good story. One a reader will enjoy. My recommendations are hearty. You will enjoy it.
I received a free ARC of Her Highland Devil. All opinions expressed herein are solely my own.
July 8, 2019
Kidnapping and plunder? ✔ Envy, rivalry and jealousy? ✔ Shock and anger? ✔ Subterfuge and betrayal? ✔ War and raids? ✔ Action and Adventure? ✔✔ Enemies to Lovers? ✔✔✔. An exciting story of the enmity between the English and the Scottish people. A forced marriage between a young English lady and a Laird's son was meant to help tone down the blood curdling roar for war from both sides. Lady Gabriella is the daughter of the Earl of Hawkshire. Castle Mackenzie lay on or near the border of Scotland and was always susceptible to being attacked. In order to protect his eldest daughter Gabriella, the Earl arranged for her to marry her childhood friend Ronnie. Ronnie was a neighbor and would not hesitate to assist the Earl to defend his home. Gabriella had always read romances and had fantasized that one day she would meet her true love and marry. Ronnie was not her true love. As a dutiful daughter she agreed to marry him. In Scotland, Laird Lachlan Ridell was dying. He had to move quickly to set things in motion to avoid a battle between his nephew Malcolm and his son Callum for the Lairdship. Lachlan kidnapped Gabriella and forced his son Callum to marry her. He then resigned his Lairdship and turned the reins over to Callum. Malcolm was not only disappointed but infuriated and put his plan into action to usurp the Lairdship from Callum and steal his wife. That means Callum must die in order for him to become Laird. He gained the help of Callum's former mistress Lady Erlyn Banalt. The plan was for Malcolm to become Laird and for Erlyn to resume her relationship with Callum. This is an exhilarating, heart-stopping, mind boggling, thrilling book. You will not be bored and I do recommend it.
July 8, 2019
SETTING: Along the Scotland-England Border, at a time of unrest between the two countries, Gabby’s father decides to marry her so she will be removed from her home, which he thinks will soon be attacked. Gabby loves Ronnie, only just as a brother, a friend she never thought to marry. Acquiescing to her father’s wishes, Gabby is dressed for her wedding when they are attacked, and the attackers demand her, the eldest daughter! To prevent further bloodshed, Gabby’s parents and Gabby agree to having Gabby taken to Scotland, with the stated purpose of her marrying the Laird’s son, known as ‘The Devil’ for his anger and hatred in battle!
Despite such rough beginnings, a tender love story develops, that is ripped apart by deceit of a cousin. Will Gabby’s name and honor be restored so she and her new husband can form a happy marriage? Or will the lies cause irreparable damage to their relationship and each settle for someone else?
CRITIQUE: This is a heart pounding adventure, with evil intrigues and deceits surrounding both Gabby and ‘the Devil’, Callum, making their very shaky relationship shatter just when it is forming. Selfish people manipulate events making Gabby and Callum suspect the other of deceit. The reader can scarcely put down the book, so compelling is the story. Good storyline, strong H & h, with an unique ending.
Despite such rough beginnings, a tender love story develops, that is ripped apart by deceit of a cousin. Will Gabby’s name and honor be restored so she and her new husband can form a happy marriage? Or will the lies cause irreparable damage to their relationship and each settle for someone else?
CRITIQUE: This is a heart pounding adventure, with evil intrigues and deceits surrounding both Gabby and ‘the Devil’, Callum, making their very shaky relationship shatter just when it is forming. Selfish people manipulate events making Gabby and Callum suspect the other of deceit. The reader can scarcely put down the book, so compelling is the story. Good storyline, strong H & h, with an unique ending.
July 6, 2019
Innocence meets the Devil
When Chief Lachlan Ridell conquered Hawkshire, his first and foremost goal was the Earl’s first daughter, Lady Gabriella, as a wife for his son Callum – the Devil of the Highlands – to ensure his place as future Laird of the clan. The invasion occurred in the midst of Gabby’s wedding to her childhood friend, Ronnie, and instead of becoming a wife, she found herself given to the Scottish chief to save her family and their subjects from the barbarians savagery.
Callum is still mourning the death of his first wife Isabella at the hands of the English and is angry when he discovers his father’s intentions but he cannot deny Gabby’s beauty as they pledge their vows in front of his people and the priest. Not everyone in Clan Ridell wants this new union to succeed – there is competition for the Lairdship and for Callum’s affection.
Although the characters are engaging, I felt Gabby’s personality was inconsistent. She alternated between becoming a strong Scottish woman and being an indecisive child who seemed to think Ronnie and Callum were interchangeable. Overall, I enjoyed the book and liked that the author offered an extended epilogue to the readers at the end.
When Chief Lachlan Ridell conquered Hawkshire, his first and foremost goal was the Earl’s first daughter, Lady Gabriella, as a wife for his son Callum – the Devil of the Highlands – to ensure his place as future Laird of the clan. The invasion occurred in the midst of Gabby’s wedding to her childhood friend, Ronnie, and instead of becoming a wife, she found herself given to the Scottish chief to save her family and their subjects from the barbarians savagery.
Callum is still mourning the death of his first wife Isabella at the hands of the English and is angry when he discovers his father’s intentions but he cannot deny Gabby’s beauty as they pledge their vows in front of his people and the priest. Not everyone in Clan Ridell wants this new union to succeed – there is competition for the Lairdship and for Callum’s affection.
Although the characters are engaging, I felt Gabby’s personality was inconsistent. She alternated between becoming a strong Scottish woman and being an indecisive child who seemed to think Ronnie and Callum were interchangeable. Overall, I enjoyed the book and liked that the author offered an extended epilogue to the readers at the end.
July 11, 2019
Highland romantic drama.
A plot twist halfway through ruined this book. It was ridiculous and unbelievable.
Gabby was reluctantly getting married to her childhood friend Ronnie when the Highlanders attacked and she was nicked away by the Laird to wed his son.
Callum, who went by the nickname the devil was none to pleased by getting chackled to an English lass as his betrothed Isabella had been killed by the English.
Gabby was no more pleased than her husband to be and the first half of the book contained some witty banter and the development of their love.
In the background loomed a firmer mistress and a brother that wanted all that Callum had...
The drama shifted into high gear at about 60% and took a turn that ruined the book in my eyes.
***SPOILER***
A forged letter makes the English attack and Gabby willingly let Ronnie take her to England while her most beloved husband is beaten half to death before her eyes. Callum accuses her of betrayal which does not answer with a single word in her defence. Travels back to England and agrees to marry Ronnie!!!
***SPOILER END***
I lost interest and skimmed through to the swift and unplausible ending.
The book left me rather annoyed.
A plot twist halfway through ruined this book. It was ridiculous and unbelievable.
Gabby was reluctantly getting married to her childhood friend Ronnie when the Highlanders attacked and she was nicked away by the Laird to wed his son.
Callum, who went by the nickname the devil was none to pleased by getting chackled to an English lass as his betrothed Isabella had been killed by the English.
Gabby was no more pleased than her husband to be and the first half of the book contained some witty banter and the development of their love.
In the background loomed a firmer mistress and a brother that wanted all that Callum had...
The drama shifted into high gear at about 60% and took a turn that ruined the book in my eyes.
***SPOILER***
A forged letter makes the English attack and Gabby willingly let Ronnie take her to England while her most beloved husband is beaten half to death before her eyes. Callum accuses her of betrayal which does not answer with a single word in her defence. Travels back to England and agrees to marry Ronnie!!!
***SPOILER END***
I lost interest and skimmed through to the swift and unplausible ending.
The book left me rather annoyed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2019
Don't miss out on this one!
Another great read from Barbara Bard. I have yet to be disappointed with any of her books. You will not want to miss out on this amazing story. From the moment you turn the first page to when you realize you have turned the last page you will be on the edge of your seat. Being in the wrong place at the wrong time gets Myra Traders more than just a little trouble, it nearly gets her killed. But then our hero rides to the rescue as Greer MacEllish, heir to the Laird of a Clan on the border of Scotland and northern England, sweeps in to take her away from the murdering scoundrel with dark secrets. Barbara Bard still manages to mix in plenty of humor and sizzling sex while our hero tries to protect his clans women folk from the threat of death. If you have not read any of the other books by Barbara Bard you can start with this one, then I am betting you will want to go back and get a copy her other highlands books.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for involuntarily giving my honest opinion in review of Her Highland Protector.
Another great read from Barbara Bard. I have yet to be disappointed with any of her books. You will not want to miss out on this amazing story. From the moment you turn the first page to when you realize you have turned the last page you will be on the edge of your seat. Being in the wrong place at the wrong time gets Myra Traders more than just a little trouble, it nearly gets her killed. But then our hero rides to the rescue as Greer MacEllish, heir to the Laird of a Clan on the border of Scotland and northern England, sweeps in to take her away from the murdering scoundrel with dark secrets. Barbara Bard still manages to mix in plenty of humor and sizzling sex while our hero tries to protect his clans women folk from the threat of death. If you have not read any of the other books by Barbara Bard you can start with this one, then I am betting you will want to go back and get a copy her other highlands books.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for involuntarily giving my honest opinion in review of Her Highland Protector.
July 5, 2019
The borders of England and Scotland are a precarious place to live. Gabby can’t believe that her parents have arranged marriage with her English cousin and friend Ronnie. She is furious. Lauchlan is an aging Scottish laird who needs his son Callum married quickly to take over leadership of the clan before he dies. Of course there is a raid, a reluctant bride and resistant groom to start the story. The dynamics between Gabby and Callum fluctuate from frigid to fireworks. Malcolm, a disgruntled cousin along with spurned mistress Erlyn band together scheming to gain something more than they have. I found the story engaging and the characters reasonably realistic. It is funny how some form of miscommunication can spin most stories and the emotions of characters out of control. Be prepared to enjoy a trip back to the highlands!
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 2, 2019
When Gabby was forced to marry her childhood friend she wasn’t happy! She just couldn’t think of him that way. Her parents are trying to protect her as they expect another Scottish raid.
Callum’s beloved was killed by the English and he wants them all dead! When his father brings Gabby home to wed him so he can be the next laird he’s furious. When his cousin who was raised as a brother to her starts to get friendly with her he’s furious! He knows his cousin also wants to be laird and if he can disgrace him he gets the top prize. Little does Callum realize he’s slowly getting jealous and despite himself he’s falling for Gabby!
This was a story about prejudging people and believing the worst based on rumors! It also has sibling rivalry, deceit, adventure, love and a HEA! I really enjoyed this book!
Callum’s beloved was killed by the English and he wants them all dead! When his father brings Gabby home to wed him so he can be the next laird he’s furious. When his cousin who was raised as a brother to her starts to get friendly with her he’s furious! He knows his cousin also wants to be laird and if he can disgrace him he gets the top prize. Little does Callum realize he’s slowly getting jealous and despite himself he’s falling for Gabby!
This was a story about prejudging people and believing the worst based on rumors! It also has sibling rivalry, deceit, adventure, love and a HEA! I really enjoyed this book!
July 3, 2019
This is the story of Callum and Gabby, and a secondary main character of Ronnie, and a third main character of Malcolm. On her wedding day, Gabby, was to marry her best friend through life, Ronnie. This was something she didn't want to do. Her wedding was invaded by the Scottish and she was taken to Scotland to marry the upcoming Laird, Callum, which did happen. Callum's cousin, Malcom did everything in his power to stop this. The events that happened were full of action, to say the least. Then, Gabby was captured back by the English through false truths. Gabby ended up back in Scotland again, due to her mother's interference on her wedding day to Ronnie again. It is a great story, and easy to follow with so much going back and forth. This book holds your attention fully. I highly recommend it.
July 5, 2019
Betrayal and Treason
Callum is distraught over the death of his betrothed, Isabella, and is also trying to deal with his cousin Malcolm who also claimed to love 💘 her. Things between Callum and Malcolm becomes even more complicated and when the Laird raids England and brings Gabby MacKenzie to the Highlands to marry his son Callum, Malcolm becomes even more embittered and envious.
Gabby and Callum fall in love 💘💘 after their marriage but circumstances that happen because of Malcolm and Erlyn who is jealous of any woman that Callum has an interest in betray Laird Callum and the clan. With the blame falling on the innocent Gabby for the English soldiers raid and taking Gabby, Callum severely wounded, Malcolm is declared temporary Laird with Erlyn sticking close to Callum.
Callum is distraught over the death of his betrothed, Isabella, and is also trying to deal with his cousin Malcolm who also claimed to love 💘 her. Things between Callum and Malcolm becomes even more complicated and when the Laird raids England and brings Gabby MacKenzie to the Highlands to marry his son Callum, Malcolm becomes even more embittered and envious.
Gabby and Callum fall in love 💘💘 after their marriage but circumstances that happen because of Malcolm and Erlyn who is jealous of any woman that Callum has an interest in betray Laird Callum and the clan. With the blame falling on the innocent Gabby for the English soldiers raid and taking Gabby, Callum severely wounded, Malcolm is declared temporary Laird with Erlyn sticking close to Callum.
July 5, 2019
Gabriella MacKenzie is taken away in the midst of a raid by the Highlanders in her home in England.She is taken back to Scotland to wed Callum Ridell.
Firstly, Gabby is not happy to hear she will be taken from her family. Second, she will wed someone she does not know, no less a Scottish barbarian they call the Highland Devil.
Little does Gabby know Callum is the most handsome and charming barbarian.
After being wed they both have to make adjustments to strengthen their relationship more, and learn trust. Gabby is beginning to fall in love with Callum, and how others look up to her as the lairds wife.
Malcolm, Callum's cousin have always been competitive with each other. Callum's ex-mistress thinks she is still in control him.
A tension filled plot full of deceit,betrayal and sizzling love scenes that will make it impossible for readers to put this book down.
Firstly, Gabby is not happy to hear she will be taken from her family. Second, she will wed someone she does not know, no less a Scottish barbarian they call the Highland Devil.
Little does Gabby know Callum is the most handsome and charming barbarian.
After being wed they both have to make adjustments to strengthen their relationship more, and learn trust. Gabby is beginning to fall in love with Callum, and how others look up to her as the lairds wife.
Malcolm, Callum's cousin have always been competitive with each other. Callum's ex-mistress thinks she is still in control him.
A tension filled plot full of deceit,betrayal and sizzling love scenes that will make it impossible for readers to put this book down.
July 6, 2019
Gabby has the type of personality where you do what is expected of you even though you don't like it. He has a lot of grief for his lost love and has earned the nickname the Highland Devil. His father raids her home and takes her back to be his son the Highland Devil's wife. Her parents had arranged for her to marry her best friend for a lot of reasons. Well things don't get any easier for either of them. Add in a mistress, lies and deceptions and things just go downhill. And then you have a lot of hurt and anger and forgiveness. It takes a lot to overcome these things and find the love again. Then comes the knowledge of who it really is doing these things. I was hooked from the start. A book this emotionally charged with a story this great is one I couldn't miss. And I highly recommend it. I received a review copy and voluntarily review it.
July 12, 2019
Great read! The story is full of unexpected twists and turns, and keeps you on the edge of your chair until the end. You can feel the heartwrenching sorrows and disappointment in each other of the main characters Gabby and Callum. The fact that you know the minds of the other characters, adds a deeper layer to these emotions.
I really liked the use of Scottish brogue throughout the story. I admire that the author kept the lady speaking English, while Callum kept speaking in a Scottish accent. Moreover, there is little to no profanity in the text of the story. There do occur some sex scenes in the book and it is stated that Callum has a mistress.
I received an ARC copy of this book. The views expressed above are my own.
I really liked the use of Scottish brogue throughout the story. I admire that the author kept the lady speaking English, while Callum kept speaking in a Scottish accent. Moreover, there is little to no profanity in the text of the story. There do occur some sex scenes in the book and it is stated that Callum has a mistress.
I received an ARC copy of this book. The views expressed above are my own.
July 5, 2019
Gabby is to marry her best friend, Ronnie. She doesn't want to but it is what her parents want. On her wedding day the Highlanders invade and kidnap Gabby. She is taken to Scotland to marry Callum before his birthday so he can be named Laird. The English call him the Devil. Callum hates the English but Gabby turns his head. This story has a mistress, a jealous brother, action, adventure, romance, integrity, excitement, and twists. Very well thought out and well written. Barbara has another winner with this book.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book and I also own a copy. I'm voluntarily posting a review. My opinion is entirely my own.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book and I also own a copy. I'm voluntarily posting a review. My opinion is entirely my own.
July 16, 2019
Another good read from Barbara Bard
Barbara Bard doesn't just write a good historical novel. She writes novels filled with conflict between two people from opposing sides who come together, fall In love, and persevere in spite of great odds. This is Gabby and Callum's story. They could have lived in any time and you would find yourself rooting for them in the end. I know I did. There is something special about Ms. Bard's books. I find myself getting involved with her characters and waiting for the villain/s to meet an appropriate end. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did. Happy reading!
Barbara Bard doesn't just write a good historical novel. She writes novels filled with conflict between two people from opposing sides who come together, fall In love, and persevere in spite of great odds. This is Gabby and Callum's story. They could have lived in any time and you would find yourself rooting for them in the end. I know I did. There is something special about Ms. Bard's books. I find myself getting involved with her characters and waiting for the villain/s to meet an appropriate end. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did. Happy reading!
July 3, 2019
I love how uncontrollable Callum gets the more he catches feelings fir his wife- Gabby. Lol. It's rich! Mistress against wife, and it gets down and dirty. Add a jealous brother to the mix and things get ugly real fast! Others have secret agendas against Callum and Gabby, but will it come to fruition? I was so distraught when the evil plan seems to be working against the couple!!! Ronnie has such integrity and strength of character and proved it in the end! I am really disappointed that the villains got off too easily for their many crimes.
July 4, 2019
A well written and enjoyable read. The characters and story flow well. It has love,jealousy and mystery in the story. It has Callum and Gabby learning about each other and working to build a strong trusting marriage all the while his cousin and ex-mistress are working together to get them apart.
I really enjoyed the story, it keep me going from start to finish. I am looking forward to more great reads from Barbara Bard.
I really enjoyed the story, it keep me going from start to finish. I am looking forward to more great reads from Barbara Bard.
July 12, 2019
What do you do when your family is marrying you to your best friend thinking it will protect you from Highlanders attacking the family home?? Do you give up your dream of everlasting love or go along with them to marry the person that feels more like a brother than husband??
An original story that will surprise you and not want to put the book down until the last page. Don't forget to go to the extended ending!
An original story that will surprise you and not want to put the book down until the last page. Don't forget to go to the extended ending!
July 12, 2019
BARBARA BARDS NEWEST BOOK IS......
amazing❤👍
Your characters and their story are engaging and believable.
Prearranged marriages were common , ( Gabby / Ronnie ....a brother envious of the other's good fortune ( Callum and Malcolm ) ..throw in some thieving, an unwanted or desired marriage ...and you have all the plots to get you engaged in this book.
Nicely done , Barbara!
amazing❤👍
Your characters and their story are engaging and believable.
Prearranged marriages were common , ( Gabby / Ronnie ....a brother envious of the other's good fortune ( Callum and Malcolm ) ..throw in some thieving, an unwanted or desired marriage ...and you have all the plots to get you engaged in this book.
Nicely done , Barbara!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2019
Enjoyable Highland romance. Gabby and Callum are wonderful characters who must strive against outside influences to make their marriage a happy one. When danger strikes Callum’s clan and Gabby is blamed, can they find the truth before they are separated forever? I loved this story.
July 3, 2019
Callum’s father takes Gabby prisoner and wants them to marry. Callum hates the English and wants nothing to do with her. Soon sparks are flying and the learn who the real enemy is. Fast-paced read with lots of drama and great chemistry. I really liked this historical read.
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