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McJames #2
La figlia del nemico
Bronwyn è l'unica figlia del dispotico e avido Erik McQuade, che la tratta come una serva, segregandola per tenersi le terre lasciatele dalla madre. Ma un giorno Bronwyn incontra Cullen McJames, ignara che si tratti dell'acerrimo nemico del padre, e tra i due è subito attrazione. Quando Erik ne viene a conoscenza, coglie l'occasione per infangare l'onore dei McJames di fronte al sovrano e disonorare la figlia, così che nessuno la voglia. Ma Cullen non reagisce secondo le sue aspettative: ammaliato da Bronwyn la rapisce e la sposa, sperando in tal modo di metter fine alla faida. Non ha però fatto i conti con lo spirito fiero e combattivo di sua moglie...
202 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 8, 2010
207 people are currently reading
1158 people want to read
About the author
Mary Wine
83 books817 followersMary Wine has written over twenty novels that take her readers from the pages of history to the far reaches of space. Recent winner of a 2008 EPPIE Award for erotic western romance, her book LET ME LOVE YOU was quoted “Not to be missed…” by Lora Leigh, New York Times best-selling author.
When she’s not abusing a laptop, she spends time with her sewing machines…all of them! Making historical garments is her second passion. From corsets and knickers to court dresses of Elizabeth I, the most expensive clothes she owns are hundreds of years out of date. She’s also an active student of martial arts, having earned the rank of second degree black belt.
When she’s not abusing a laptop, she spends time with her sewing machines…all of them! Making historical garments is her second passion. From corsets and knickers to court dresses of Elizabeth I, the most expensive clothes she owns are hundreds of years out of date. She’s also an active student of martial arts, having earned the rank of second degree black belt.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
June 24, 2017
After realizing that the last 7 romances I read were all written before 1993, I craved something newer. Mary Wine's In the Warrior's Bed is not a bad book, but it lacks that extra something that makes it memorable.
Actually it's memorable for one thing: they didn't get the cover right. If you're anal-retentive like me, this will bother you. As much as I dislike them, a headless torso cover would have been preferable. The heroine is supposed to be blond, and the cover depicts a black-haired woman. (And let's not talk about the inaccurate plaid [grumble, grumble:]). You can't blame the cover artist because the heroine's name is Bronwyn and most Bronwyns in Romancelandia have black hair. Plus the author doesn't give a physical description of her heroine until page 69 of this trade-back, and then it's only to briefly describe her honey-colored hair. If one is writing a romance novel, there is no shame in giving a physical description of your character by page 10.
Anyhoo, onto the actual book. We've seen this plot before: two Scottish clans are feuding, and the hero abducts the heroine, schtupps her silly and they fall in love, while the evil-doers do their bad thing and try to separate them/kill them.
In the Warrior's Bed falters when the main characters are not together, so fortunately, they're together a lot. Cullen McJames is a sexy, masculine hero, but I couldn't really understand Bronwyn. Her loyalty to her family is noble, but not reasonable. They treat her like a slave, humiliate her and want her dead. Here's this hunk with a brogue who wants to treat her like a lady, take her away from her violent clan and give her lots of orgasms. But of course, she just has to fight him every step of the way.
As this is a Brava romance there will be no mention of manhoods, manroots or members, but c***s will be constantly stirring in kilts. For the first half of the book, Cullen is in a constant state of priapism, even when the heroine is nowhere to be found. I thought the guy should have called his doctor because we've all heard what those commercials say about 4 hour erections.
The love scenes are very sexy; the good guys are good and the bad guys are eeevilll! Plus, there's lots of blood and killing and the book ends nice and violently, so that's a plus. I gather this is the second novel in a series, so one day I may pick up the others out of curiosity because Ms. Wine's writing style is to be admired. Still, it took me two weeks to finish this 277 page book, as I kept putting it down and reading something else. I'd give it 3 stars, which rates about a high C+. Not bad, but not a keeper.
Actually it's memorable for one thing: they didn't get the cover right. If you're anal-retentive like me, this will bother you. As much as I dislike them, a headless torso cover would have been preferable. The heroine is supposed to be blond, and the cover depicts a black-haired woman. (And let's not talk about the inaccurate plaid [grumble, grumble:]). You can't blame the cover artist because the heroine's name is Bronwyn and most Bronwyns in Romancelandia have black hair. Plus the author doesn't give a physical description of her heroine until page 69 of this trade-back, and then it's only to briefly describe her honey-colored hair. If one is writing a romance novel, there is no shame in giving a physical description of your character by page 10.
Anyhoo, onto the actual book. We've seen this plot before: two Scottish clans are feuding, and the hero abducts the heroine, schtupps her silly and they fall in love, while the evil-doers do their bad thing and try to separate them/kill them.
In the Warrior's Bed falters when the main characters are not together, so fortunately, they're together a lot. Cullen McJames is a sexy, masculine hero, but I couldn't really understand Bronwyn. Her loyalty to her family is noble, but not reasonable. They treat her like a slave, humiliate her and want her dead. Here's this hunk with a brogue who wants to treat her like a lady, take her away from her violent clan and give her lots of orgasms. But of course, she just has to fight him every step of the way.
As this is a Brava romance there will be no mention of manhoods, manroots or members, but c***s will be constantly stirring in kilts. For the first half of the book, Cullen is in a constant state of priapism, even when the heroine is nowhere to be found. I thought the guy should have called his doctor because we've all heard what those commercials say about 4 hour erections.
The love scenes are very sexy; the good guys are good and the bad guys are eeevilll! Plus, there's lots of blood and killing and the book ends nice and violently, so that's a plus. I gather this is the second novel in a series, so one day I may pick up the others out of curiosity because Ms. Wine's writing style is to be admired. Still, it took me two weeks to finish this 277 page book, as I kept putting it down and reading something else. I'd give it 3 stars, which rates about a high C+. Not bad, but not a keeper.
July 13, 2011
My Review
We first meet Cullen McJames in In Bed With A Stranger, Brodick and Anne’s story, in which he is Laird Brodick McJames’ younger brother. Full of laughter and love for his brother and clan, he takes great pride in teasing Brodick as his relationship with Anne develops from that of an arranged marriage into a union built on love. From the very beginning I just knew that Cullen’s story would be amazing and I was right! I’ve been waiting and waiting to read this book so I could savor it without interruption, certain I would love it every bit as much as In bed With A Stranger. Much to my delight, I loved it even more!
As Cullen watched, his older brother became a different man when he fell in love and started his own family. Cullen had begun thinking that maybe giving his heart to a lady wasn’t such an awful thing after all. However, he also knew that an arranged marriage between himself and Bronwyn McQuade, daughter of Laird McQuade, would help ease tensions between the feuding clans. Then one day, while he was out riding, he spotted beautiful young lass riding on horseback just across the border – NOT on his lands. Her plaid gave her away as belonging to Clan McQuade but that didn’t stop him from crossing the border and approaching her. This is where the trouble – and the excitement – begins.
There’s something so special in Mary Wine’s writing. Her characters come to life on the page, their lives become ours, as do their hopes, dreams and desires. Cullen is such an amazing man; devoted to his clan, full of laughter and simply loving life. If I had to choose one character in all of my reads who I would really want to spend my life with, I think it would be him. He made me smile with his naturally easy going way. And his sensuality, both in and out of bed, makes him one sexy Warrior. Indeed, he is truly drool-worthy.
Bronwyn was a great character – refreshingly real in her actions and reactions to being swept away by Cullen, and not under the best of circumstances. She is loyal to her clan but can see where that loyalty will get her nowhere. Her evolving relationship with Cullen was both heartwarming and entertaining. She was his perfect match in all ways.
I truly enjoy Mary Wine’s stories and am anxiously awaiting Bedding the Enemy and To Conquer a Highlander
We first meet Cullen McJames in In Bed With A Stranger, Brodick and Anne’s story, in which he is Laird Brodick McJames’ younger brother. Full of laughter and love for his brother and clan, he takes great pride in teasing Brodick as his relationship with Anne develops from that of an arranged marriage into a union built on love. From the very beginning I just knew that Cullen’s story would be amazing and I was right! I’ve been waiting and waiting to read this book so I could savor it without interruption, certain I would love it every bit as much as In bed With A Stranger. Much to my delight, I loved it even more!
As Cullen watched, his older brother became a different man when he fell in love and started his own family. Cullen had begun thinking that maybe giving his heart to a lady wasn’t such an awful thing after all. However, he also knew that an arranged marriage between himself and Bronwyn McQuade, daughter of Laird McQuade, would help ease tensions between the feuding clans. Then one day, while he was out riding, he spotted beautiful young lass riding on horseback just across the border – NOT on his lands. Her plaid gave her away as belonging to Clan McQuade but that didn’t stop him from crossing the border and approaching her. This is where the trouble – and the excitement – begins.
There’s something so special in Mary Wine’s writing. Her characters come to life on the page, their lives become ours, as do their hopes, dreams and desires. Cullen is such an amazing man; devoted to his clan, full of laughter and simply loving life. If I had to choose one character in all of my reads who I would really want to spend my life with, I think it would be him. He made me smile with his naturally easy going way. And his sensuality, both in and out of bed, makes him one sexy Warrior. Indeed, he is truly drool-worthy.
Bronwyn was a great character – refreshingly real in her actions and reactions to being swept away by Cullen, and not under the best of circumstances. She is loyal to her clan but can see where that loyalty will get her nowhere. Her evolving relationship with Cullen was both heartwarming and entertaining. She was his perfect match in all ways.
I truly enjoy Mary Wine’s stories and am anxiously awaiting Bedding the Enemy and To Conquer a Highlander
February 11, 2017
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Summary
Cullen McJames evies while out surveying their border, came across a stunning lass, he only wants more after one exchange with her. He sees a passion in her that he resonates with. But when he learns that the Laird of the McQuade has accused him of taking his daughter's virtue Cullen goes to prove the McQuades what he is really capable of. So he kidnaps Bronwyn to convince her that will her reputation in tatters thanks to her father, that they must marry. Bronwyn has only known how men treat women with disdain, greed and lust. She never imagined that her captor, a man she never thought would be capable of such an act. She is shocked when she discovers that she feels something more for him than dislike. He may be her husband, but he isn't going to tame her easily. She will fight for her independence and free will....with the battle of wits who will when it comes to matters of the heart?
The Hero
Cullen is envious of the relationship that his brother has with his wife. But Cullen isn't a meek male to just allow any women to run over him. Cullen has a very dominant and alpha like tendacies. He is a powerful warrior in his own right. Cullen is close to his family and his clan, but he also has a mischevious and playful nature. You never know what he will do next. He has quite a entertaining character and even though he is a bit "he man" and not everyone will like his character I found him highly entertaining and probably a very realistic view of men back in the day.
The Heroine
Bronwyn has lived under her father's cruel rule all of her life. He treats her like a servant, she has learned to work hard. She knows that one day he will barter her for wealth or land. She only has one out of three brothers that treat her like real family. Even though she should view Cullen as the enemy, she is not angry at him for just being a McJames. She knows how her father works. She is furious that he kidnapped her and she was practically forced into marrying him or go against the church. I really had fun with Bronwyn's character. I liked that she was willful and passionate and didn't back down from a fight with Cullen even though it would probably save her tons of drama and tension.
Plot and Story Line
In The Warrior's Bed we get to be drawn back into the McJame's family and clan and we finally get to Cullen's book. I really fell made for this character in the first book. He is very alpha at times and I started to remember why I loved him so much. He isn't a character you take too seriously though. Now this books has quite a bit of angst in it. And the bantering between Cullen and Bronwyn is very very lively and dramatic at times. But with Mary Wine, you just know that you will have a good time with her books, and In The Warrior's Bed was high entertainment. We see the history and the culture of the Scottish clans and the complications of the Scottish Court at this time frame. I was pretty intrigued with seeing how this story played out in the end though. The romance is packed with tension, drama and seeing these two come from being enemies to lovers packs quite a punch.
The Cover
I do love the way this pose is situated here....I love the purple tones and the gold detail on her dress.
Overall View
In The Warrior's Bed is a scottish romance that packs a powerful feel....its lively, historically crafted and riveting!!
Click To Buy On Amazon
[foogallery id="19358"]
Summary
Cullen McJames evies while out surveying their border, came across a stunning lass, he only wants more after one exchange with her. He sees a passion in her that he resonates with. But when he learns that the Laird of the McQuade has accused him of taking his daughter's virtue Cullen goes to prove the McQuades what he is really capable of. So he kidnaps Bronwyn to convince her that will her reputation in tatters thanks to her father, that they must marry. Bronwyn has only known how men treat women with disdain, greed and lust. She never imagined that her captor, a man she never thought would be capable of such an act. She is shocked when she discovers that she feels something more for him than dislike. He may be her husband, but he isn't going to tame her easily. She will fight for her independence and free will....with the battle of wits who will when it comes to matters of the heart?
The Hero
Cullen is envious of the relationship that his brother has with his wife. But Cullen isn't a meek male to just allow any women to run over him. Cullen has a very dominant and alpha like tendacies. He is a powerful warrior in his own right. Cullen is close to his family and his clan, but he also has a mischevious and playful nature. You never know what he will do next. He has quite a entertaining character and even though he is a bit "he man" and not everyone will like his character I found him highly entertaining and probably a very realistic view of men back in the day.
The Heroine
Bronwyn has lived under her father's cruel rule all of her life. He treats her like a servant, she has learned to work hard. She knows that one day he will barter her for wealth or land. She only has one out of three brothers that treat her like real family. Even though she should view Cullen as the enemy, she is not angry at him for just being a McJames. She knows how her father works. She is furious that he kidnapped her and she was practically forced into marrying him or go against the church. I really had fun with Bronwyn's character. I liked that she was willful and passionate and didn't back down from a fight with Cullen even though it would probably save her tons of drama and tension.
Plot and Story Line
In The Warrior's Bed we get to be drawn back into the McJame's family and clan and we finally get to Cullen's book. I really fell made for this character in the first book. He is very alpha at times and I started to remember why I loved him so much. He isn't a character you take too seriously though. Now this books has quite a bit of angst in it. And the bantering between Cullen and Bronwyn is very very lively and dramatic at times. But with Mary Wine, you just know that you will have a good time with her books, and In The Warrior's Bed was high entertainment. We see the history and the culture of the Scottish clans and the complications of the Scottish Court at this time frame. I was pretty intrigued with seeing how this story played out in the end though. The romance is packed with tension, drama and seeing these two come from being enemies to lovers packs quite a punch.
The Cover
I do love the way this pose is situated here....I love the purple tones and the gold detail on her dress.
Overall View
In The Warrior's Bed is a scottish romance that packs a powerful feel....its lively, historically crafted and riveting!!
Click To Buy On Amazon
[foogallery id="19358"]
February 7, 2010
I was torn with rating this book 3 or 4 stars. The beginning and ending of the story made it 4 stars for me.
This book was simple to me. At points Mary reused lines over and that kinda bothered me. I don't need to be told 3 times how nice the bathing room is. She did this a few times with other things through out the book.
Another thing that bothered me was the cover of the book did not match the H&H at all. I don't understand why they do that. The heroine on the cover has black hair and the heroine in the book is blond. The plaid the hero is wearing on the cover is not the same colors used in the book. It may not bother all readers, but it does bother me.
The sex scenes were hot, that is always a plus for me.
The ending was done well and I do look forwars to reading the next book in this series.
This book was simple to me. At points Mary reused lines over and that kinda bothered me. I don't need to be told 3 times how nice the bathing room is. She did this a few times with other things through out the book.
Another thing that bothered me was the cover of the book did not match the H&H at all. I don't understand why they do that. The heroine on the cover has black hair and the heroine in the book is blond. The plaid the hero is wearing on the cover is not the same colors used in the book. It may not bother all readers, but it does bother me.
The sex scenes were hot, that is always a plus for me.
The ending was done well and I do look forwars to reading the next book in this series.
March 18, 2010
I give this 3.75 stars. This book started out a little slow for me but definitely picked up as the book went along. At first I wasn't a fan of Bronwyn. I thought she struggled against Cullen a little too much. However, I can understand her fear of the unknown and fear of how she would be treated in the McJames household after the feuding. Although, from what we knew of her father, how could anything be worse?
It took some time but she did see Cullen for the honorable man that he is truly.
As Dhestiny mentioned in her review, I enjoyed reading about Cullen and Bronwyn learning about and beginning to love each other. I especially loved Cullen's charm. Who couldn't help but fall for him?
This book reads quickly and is an easy read. Even with the "feud" between the two families this isn't a stressful read. Issues are handled quickly.
I'm looking forward to Bonnie's story and I believe she is going to be matched with Alarick.
It took some time but she did see Cullen for the honorable man that he is truly.
As Dhestiny mentioned in her review, I enjoyed reading about Cullen and Bronwyn learning about and beginning to love each other. I especially loved Cullen's charm. Who couldn't help but fall for him?
This book reads quickly and is an easy read. Even with the "feud" between the two families this isn't a stressful read. Issues are handled quickly.
I'm looking forward to Bonnie's story and I believe she is going to be matched with Alarick.
January 23, 2021
scratched the historical-erotica itch i was having, so don't see any reason to give less than 4 stars. the plot was nice and she does give us some cool characters, both good and evil. She could become my go to author for some nice scottish smut.
August 24, 2011
Summary:
I like Cullen - he's an honorable Highland warrior that doesn't try to fight his gentler feelings. Also the fact that he wanted Bronwyn before he actually found out who she was made me feel better about the abduction itself.
Bronwyn is likable as well, she wasn't too stubborn when it came to admitting that she does in fact want Cullen. I like that she didn't just fall in line with his wishes, but did try to resist (although I'm not sure why exactly she wanted to, her home is not a nice place given that most of her family hates her).
Her father and brothers are complete villains there's not a single redeemable thing about them and I find that a bit too neat. Nobody is just that evil and greedy - I like it more when I can see something nice about them - it makes it more real.
I like seeing the couple from the previous book here as well as Sterling. And I really do wish we could get Bonnie's story (sister of the heroine of In Bed With A Stranger).
Rating:
3.5 stars
Cullen McJames will not have his honor sullied, certainly not by his clan's nemesis Laird Erik McQuade. So when McQuade tells the Court of Scotland that Cullen has stolen his daughter's virtue, Cullen steals the daughter instead.
Since his brother wed a fetching lass, Cullen's been thinking he too needs a wife. A marriage could end the constant war between the clans. And looking on Bronwyn McQuade but once has put her in his dreams for a week
But Bronwyn won't go quietly. She won't be punished for what she did not do. Nor is she eager to live among the resentful veterans of McQuade wars. And however brave and beautiful a man Cullen may be, he has much to learn about a woman's fighting spirit. But as Bronwyn will discover, he has much to teach her as well.
I like Cullen - he's an honorable Highland warrior that doesn't try to fight his gentler feelings. Also the fact that he wanted Bronwyn before he actually found out who she was made me feel better about the abduction itself.
Bronwyn is likable as well, she wasn't too stubborn when it came to admitting that she does in fact want Cullen. I like that she didn't just fall in line with his wishes, but did try to resist (although I'm not sure why exactly she wanted to, her home is not a nice place given that most of her family hates her).
Her father and brothers are complete villains there's not a single redeemable thing about them and I find that a bit too neat. Nobody is just that evil and greedy - I like it more when I can see something nice about them - it makes it more real.
I like seeing the couple from the previous book here as well as Sterling. And I really do wish we could get Bonnie's story (sister of the heroine of In Bed With A Stranger).
Rating:
3.5 stars
February 6, 2011
Let me start by mentioning that I didn't read In bed with a Stranger, the book before In the Warrior's Bed, but even with a handful of references to it, I didn't have any trouble follwing this one.
Having said that, the story for the most part is well written but ultimately a let down. It's the same ol' song and dance as every other highlander HR. I kept wating to be surprised but if you're familar at all with Historical Romances the the plot is pretty predictable.
Added to that there are quite a few "huh? Why did he/she do that?" moments that aren't really explained and just left me confused.
Oh! and the love scenes! MW is (was?) a writer for Ellora's Cave so I actually expected hotter scenes then the humdrum ones In the Warrior's Bed offered. Again, they're well written, just a bit too tame.
Overall, I think the best way to describe this is as a comfort read, or an in-between read. Nothing new is offered, there's only a minimum of angst to deal with (no Jealous exes!) and a HEA: Very easy, very light reading.
Having said that, the story for the most part is well written but ultimately a let down. It's the same ol' song and dance as every other highlander HR. I kept wating to be surprised but if you're familar at all with Historical Romances the the plot is pretty predictable.
Added to that there are quite a few "huh? Why did he/she do that?" moments that aren't really explained and just left me confused.
Oh! and the love scenes! MW is (was?) a writer for Ellora's Cave so I actually expected hotter scenes then the humdrum ones In the Warrior's Bed offered. Again, they're well written, just a bit too tame.
Overall, I think the best way to describe this is as a comfort read, or an in-between read. Nothing new is offered, there's only a minimum of angst to deal with (no Jealous exes!) and a HEA: Very easy, very light reading.
August 20, 2015
Blablabla blablabla blablablablablablablablabla.
Bref, j'ai mis 2 mois pour le lire, rien de neuf dans le genre, lecture dispensable.
Bref, j'ai mis 2 mois pour le lire, rien de neuf dans le genre, lecture dispensable.
May 24, 2018
What a disgusting pig the protagonist was! There is nothing that will make me think differently. He had that total creepy raperish vibe going on. Ick!
Okay, I realize things were way different in early 1600s Scotland and men basically owned women but I'm a 21st century reader who isn't going to stand for men forcing themselves on a woman no matter how much he thinks a blush equates to wanting to have sex with him.
Cullen meets Bronwyn while riding on the border of their clan’s lands. Their clans are bitter enemies. He flirts with her but she seems not interested in him. When her clansmen ride over a ridge and spots them talking, she gets back up on her horse and he grabs her ass. His balls would have been in his throat if he did that to me.
Throughout the whole book, Cullen couldn't seem to control his penis. It had control of him. The same was true for Bronwyn. He touched her wrist once and she became horny. What the hell?
It was the way he treated Bronwyn that really had me steaming though. He did some things that were nothing short of abuse, using his power to get his way. And then she would forgive him when he waved his tallywacker around. Man, I hope anyone reading this book knows how wrong that is.
No! I can't accept it. I don't want my heroes to resemble a horny creep at the bar who thinks just because you danced with him means he can rub his dick up against you. I want my heroes to know when to stop and respect the meaning of no.
There was actually a good plot going on here with the two clans rivalry and a few other background stories emerging but the book was ruined by the lecherous behavior of the supposed hero.
www.paranormalromanceslut.com
Okay, I realize things were way different in early 1600s Scotland and men basically owned women but I'm a 21st century reader who isn't going to stand for men forcing themselves on a woman no matter how much he thinks a blush equates to wanting to have sex with him.
Cullen meets Bronwyn while riding on the border of their clan’s lands. Their clans are bitter enemies. He flirts with her but she seems not interested in him. When her clansmen ride over a ridge and spots them talking, she gets back up on her horse and he grabs her ass. His balls would have been in his throat if he did that to me.
Throughout the whole book, Cullen couldn't seem to control his penis. It had control of him. The same was true for Bronwyn. He touched her wrist once and she became horny. What the hell?
It was the way he treated Bronwyn that really had me steaming though. He did some things that were nothing short of abuse, using his power to get his way. And then she would forgive him when he waved his tallywacker around. Man, I hope anyone reading this book knows how wrong that is.
No! I can't accept it. I don't want my heroes to resemble a horny creep at the bar who thinks just because you danced with him means he can rub his dick up against you. I want my heroes to know when to stop and respect the meaning of no.
There was actually a good plot going on here with the two clans rivalry and a few other background stories emerging but the book was ruined by the lecherous behavior of the supposed hero.
www.paranormalromanceslut.com
February 16, 2011
I really wanted to like these characters more. In truth, I was rooting for them most of the way; however, there was just something not quite right. I felt they were not well cemented. Which way would they go in their decision making process, and why? For lack of a better word, they were…'wishy-washy' in the author's depiction. Especially Bronwyn, the heroine. Wishy-washy isn’t quite the right word, but the ‘huh?’ going off repeatedly in my head made her appear so. It certainly slowed down what would otherwise be a fast read. Or maybe it was the fact that I could drive a battering ram through the plot. I usually like Mary Wine, but I found myself questioning whether a characterization was consistent with the way she had painted a character earlier. Maybe I should just stick with her westerns.
May 12, 2017
In the Warrior's Bed
3 Stars
Falsely accused of dishonoring Bronwyn McQuade, Cullen McJames decides to settle the longstanding feud between his clan and the McQuades by kidnapping and wedding her. Unfortunately for Cullen, Bronwyn is no timid miss and refuses to marry and be used as a pawn. Can these two passionate yet stubborn people find some common ground?
Not as enjoyable as the first book in the series.
Bronwyn and Cullen’s scenes together are exceedingly erotic. While this is not necessarily a bad thing, their romance lacks foundation and is based on mutual lust rather than any real love and affection.
Bronwyn’s relationship with her family is underdeveloped and her interactions with the McJames clan are unrealistic. Where is the animosity and the antagonism?
There are intriguing hints at an underlying suspense plot spread throughout, but it never fully materializes and is ultimately resolved rapidly and unsatisfactorily.
All in all, the book does not live up to its potential and the next one will hopefully be better.
3 Stars
Falsely accused of dishonoring Bronwyn McQuade, Cullen McJames decides to settle the longstanding feud between his clan and the McQuades by kidnapping and wedding her. Unfortunately for Cullen, Bronwyn is no timid miss and refuses to marry and be used as a pawn. Can these two passionate yet stubborn people find some common ground?
Not as enjoyable as the first book in the series.
Bronwyn and Cullen’s scenes together are exceedingly erotic. While this is not necessarily a bad thing, their romance lacks foundation and is based on mutual lust rather than any real love and affection.
Bronwyn’s relationship with her family is underdeveloped and her interactions with the McJames clan are unrealistic. Where is the animosity and the antagonism?
There are intriguing hints at an underlying suspense plot spread throughout, but it never fully materializes and is ultimately resolved rapidly and unsatisfactorily.
All in all, the book does not live up to its potential and the next one will hopefully be better.
March 25, 2015
Une nouvelle histoire de clans écossais ennemis, mais je n’ai pas eu une impression de déjà lu. J’ai aimé le couple principal ensemble, j’ai trouvé qu’ils avaient une belle alchimie, et les scènes hot sont jolies sans être trop explicites. La façon dont ils s’apprivoisent l’un l’autre est plutôt mignonne. J’ai un peu moins aimé les doutes persistants de l’héroïne, même s’ils sont compréhensibles vu l’animosité entre les clans, la façon dont le héros l’a enlevée, et le fait qu’elle ne fait pas confiance aux hommes vu son père et ses frères. Par contre la décision du père de l’héroïne de compromettre sa réputation à la Cour pour que personne ne veuille l’épouser m’a parue bizarre et pas très logique. Autre chose, l’ambiance de l’époque est assez bien rendue, y compris le côté violent. Il y a pas mal de sang versé, âmes sensibles s’abstenir.
June 26, 2011
Good story, but I didn't like it as much as the first McJames book. It took me a long time to warm up to Cullen, though I found him sharp and boyishly attractive in the first book. Beautiful imagery and great characters, just not as likeable for me as the first book. I think it was because Bronwyn was humiliated so many times, was lonely and scared, and it took Cullen so long to "get it". And it suffers from the "second verse same as the first" syndrome, where so many scenes and plot devices are the same as previous books. I just didn't feel this book as much. I loved the parts at King James' court, and the ending, though rushed, was pretty good. I loved Bronwyn's brother Keir, especially at the end, and can't wait to read his book.
March 23, 2023
Done with In the Warrior's Bed and had hoped for a big finish to redeem the book but it was just okay.
July 14, 2011
The second book in the McJames series by Mary Wine. Set in Scotland around 1600. It was an okay read. I thought the characters needed a little development. Not sure what it was exactly but I felt it was missing something. The story was good but it didn't grab me like some of her others novels have.
May 12, 2010
Book 2 in Mary Wine's Highlander series!! Just as good as the first and I'm looking forward to the next in the series Bedding the Enemy!!
August 30, 2009
With a bold and lusty hero, a brave heroine, and intrigue at the royal court of Scotland, Mary Wine's IN A WARRIOR'S BED is as sexy and exciting as the highland hills themselves!
October 7, 2022
I had high hopes for this book because the premise caught my attention: captive heroine, arrogant hero, and an almost love-at-first-sight meeting.
But why did this not work for me: I feel that the writing is rushed, the scenes are not as exciting as I thought they would be, and there was so much reluctance coming from the heroine that it made it a bit cringe-y for me at the end.
Brownwyn McQuade was the only daughter of the McQuade clan, but her father is a greedy, heartless man who’d rather see her become a spinster and waste her life away that have her marry- All because land is connected to her name and he’s afraid to lose it to her husband once she marries.
Of course, our hero is a sexy, big blonde Scotsman- the second McJames brother, Cullen. Cullen saw Bronwyn when she was riding in the border of their lands, and they exchanged a few words. He was curious about her, and she was wary of him.
It started out nicely, right? But for some reason this didn’t hook me in. It took me almost 2 months to finish it, which is me picking the book up, read a chapter or half a chapter, then put it down then get back to it 1-2 weeks later. I guess it got boring and predictable, and I wanted something else. The heroine’s character also puts me off- she’s hot then she’s cold. I wanted her to make up her mind already about her marriage and her life.
It’s still a good book, but it does lack depth and substance. I hope the next one is better. 3 stars.
But why did this not work for me: I feel that the writing is rushed, the scenes are not as exciting as I thought they would be, and there was so much reluctance coming from the heroine that it made it a bit cringe-y for me at the end.
Brownwyn McQuade was the only daughter of the McQuade clan, but her father is a greedy, heartless man who’d rather see her become a spinster and waste her life away that have her marry- All because land is connected to her name and he’s afraid to lose it to her husband once she marries.
Of course, our hero is a sexy, big blonde Scotsman- the second McJames brother, Cullen. Cullen saw Bronwyn when she was riding in the border of their lands, and they exchanged a few words. He was curious about her, and she was wary of him.
It started out nicely, right? But for some reason this didn’t hook me in. It took me almost 2 months to finish it, which is me picking the book up, read a chapter or half a chapter, then put it down then get back to it 1-2 weeks later. I guess it got boring and predictable, and I wanted something else. The heroine’s character also puts me off- she’s hot then she’s cold. I wanted her to make up her mind already about her marriage and her life.
It’s still a good book, but it does lack depth and substance. I hope the next one is better. 3 stars.
September 22, 2015
Overall, I enjoyed this far more than I thought I would, but it was not without its flaws.
Pros:
I got this as a Kindle Freebie and it was surprisingly good for a freebie!
The story was entertaining and held my attention from start to finish
The lead H/h were likeable
The secondary characters were likeable
Did not have to read the 1st book in the series to fully understand this one
Nice set-ups for secondary characters to have their own books in the future
Cons:
Cringe worthy title
Unless other books in this series are also free, I don’t feel compelled to rush out and purchase them
I get the dialogue having an accent, but even the narration was riddled with non-stop ‘ye’ ‘nae’ ‘dinna’ and ‘yer’s’. Which I’m sure some probably enjoy because it kept the story even, but for me it slowed me down and gave me a headache (cause I’m simple like that).
There were glaring plot holes and missing scenes
Lots of repetitiveness… lots!
I want to expand upon the “missing scenes and repetitiveness” from my con list;
I truly feel that there has to be an unabridged version of this book out there somewhere because it honestly felt like entire scenes were cut out at the last minute to try to keep the length of the book at a certain page count. Which would have been unnecessary if there were fewer things being repeated over and over and over again! (See, repetitiveness is annoying)
A couple examples (in the form of mini rants); *MAJOR SPOILERS*
There was so much build up for the nuptials and how Bronwyn was going to act and feel about it, but their actual marriage is nowhere to be found. Anywhere. It’s how I felt about the Race Wars build up in the first Fast & the Furious movie… but I digress, sorry. Also, as for a little plot hole, the king made it abundantly clear that in no way was she to be forced into marriage, but essentially that’s exactly what happened and nothing is EVER said about it other than there were witnesses, the likes of which were Cullen’s own cousin and bishop. So I’m to believe that the king is going to question her about her side of the story regarding her father’s accusations that she’s a slut (her father’s words, not mine), but not once is he going to follow up with her on the only condition he gave to Cullen regarding marrying her? Whatever.
Cullen and Kier go to duke it out mano y mano to work some stuff out only guess what, that scene doesn’t actually exist. They just literally go from putting their dukes up and circling each other to miraculously showing up at the chapel to save the day. Now look, I am all for coming to my own conclusions on how something went down, but it is never again mentioned, ever! There are no black eyes or bloodied lips or any knowing looks or dialogue from anyone to suggest that these two men came to an agreement and are now copasetic. And these are the two most important people in Bronwyn’s life, who happen to be sworn enemies. A scene of them reaching an understanding with one another was important! Like, for real! But again, whatever.
Probably the missing scene that completely drives me bonkers is the dice game. The author literally sets up an interesting idea that is so full of potential, one that can provide much character development and actually move the story along, only to literally nix that idea mid paragraph with the heroin randomly deciding she’s tired. WHAT!? Aye ye ye! It was such an abrupt turn about that I was so confused and was instantly disappointed and momentarily taken out of the story. *sigh*
I would have much rather seen the above mentioned scenes play out rather than reading in detail about every single time Bronwyn took a bath, with rose soap, and then brushed and dried her “cloud-like” hair by the fire. And the chick takes a lot of baths!! Or reading about the weird fixation she seemed to have with her chemise. I get that for the majority of the story that’s all she has, but come on, there are like a half dozen scenes describing the exact same thing. It’s transparent when she stands in front of the fire, it hangs around her knees, yadda yadda yadda. I get it, sheesh! There is also a lot of time spent describing the castle plumbing. (LOL What?!) And how Cullen’s kilt is pleaded. And don’t get me started on the number of times it is spoon-fed to the reader the reasons why Bronwyn’s father was such a dick to her. It’s wasn’t that difficult a concept to comprehend. I’m not stupid, I understood the explanation the first time I read it, no need to rehash it over and over again. Sometimes even in the same damn sentence! Honestly, at one point there was a line of dialogue that was something close to this- “I’m going to lock her in her room so no man can marry her therefore no man will marry her because she will be locked in her room.” No shit. SMH
Sorry for the rambles, but the way I see it, if I feel passionately enough about a book I’ve just read to go on a mini rant about it then it must mean that it made me care enough about its story and the characters. Otherwise, I’ve read many a dud where my reaction was simply, “well that was stupid” or “I want those few hours back” and I quickly moved on not giving it another thought. So yeah, not hating on this one. Just merely annoyed by a few things that I feel could have made a good book so much better.
Take from that what you will. But honestly I did enjoy this one.
Cullen was a giant goofy dork (in a good way), when he wasn’t hulking around being a caveman. Bronwyn was an independent lady who fought for herself every single step of the journey (you go girl!), when she wasn’t being wishy-washy… or taking a friggin bath! Druce was adorable. Bonnie was an interesting character, if not a tad random. I liked Alarik and his sister Raelin. I enjoyed every scene with the handmaids, be they in the sewing room or tidying up they were always entertaining to me.
So yeah, 3.5 stars from me (4 stars seemed too high, but 3 stars seemed too low).
Boom! There it is.
Pros:
I got this as a Kindle Freebie and it was surprisingly good for a freebie!
The story was entertaining and held my attention from start to finish
The lead H/h were likeable
The secondary characters were likeable
Did not have to read the 1st book in the series to fully understand this one
Nice set-ups for secondary characters to have their own books in the future
Cons:
Cringe worthy title
Unless other books in this series are also free, I don’t feel compelled to rush out and purchase them
I get the dialogue having an accent, but even the narration was riddled with non-stop ‘ye’ ‘nae’ ‘dinna’ and ‘yer’s’. Which I’m sure some probably enjoy because it kept the story even, but for me it slowed me down and gave me a headache (cause I’m simple like that).
There were glaring plot holes and missing scenes
Lots of repetitiveness… lots!
I want to expand upon the “missing scenes and repetitiveness” from my con list;
I truly feel that there has to be an unabridged version of this book out there somewhere because it honestly felt like entire scenes were cut out at the last minute to try to keep the length of the book at a certain page count. Which would have been unnecessary if there were fewer things being repeated over and over and over again! (See, repetitiveness is annoying)
A couple examples (in the form of mini rants); *MAJOR SPOILERS*
There was so much build up for the nuptials and how Bronwyn was going to act and feel about it, but their actual marriage is nowhere to be found. Anywhere. It’s how I felt about the Race Wars build up in the first Fast & the Furious movie… but I digress, sorry. Also, as for a little plot hole, the king made it abundantly clear that in no way was she to be forced into marriage, but essentially that’s exactly what happened and nothing is EVER said about it other than there were witnesses, the likes of which were Cullen’s own cousin and bishop. So I’m to believe that the king is going to question her about her side of the story regarding her father’s accusations that she’s a slut (her father’s words, not mine), but not once is he going to follow up with her on the only condition he gave to Cullen regarding marrying her? Whatever.
Cullen and Kier go to duke it out mano y mano to work some stuff out only guess what, that scene doesn’t actually exist. They just literally go from putting their dukes up and circling each other to miraculously showing up at the chapel to save the day. Now look, I am all for coming to my own conclusions on how something went down, but it is never again mentioned, ever! There are no black eyes or bloodied lips or any knowing looks or dialogue from anyone to suggest that these two men came to an agreement and are now copasetic. And these are the two most important people in Bronwyn’s life, who happen to be sworn enemies. A scene of them reaching an understanding with one another was important! Like, for real! But again, whatever.
Probably the missing scene that completely drives me bonkers is the dice game. The author literally sets up an interesting idea that is so full of potential, one that can provide much character development and actually move the story along, only to literally nix that idea mid paragraph with the heroin randomly deciding she’s tired. WHAT!? Aye ye ye! It was such an abrupt turn about that I was so confused and was instantly disappointed and momentarily taken out of the story. *sigh*
I would have much rather seen the above mentioned scenes play out rather than reading in detail about every single time Bronwyn took a bath, with rose soap, and then brushed and dried her “cloud-like” hair by the fire. And the chick takes a lot of baths!! Or reading about the weird fixation she seemed to have with her chemise. I get that for the majority of the story that’s all she has, but come on, there are like a half dozen scenes describing the exact same thing. It’s transparent when she stands in front of the fire, it hangs around her knees, yadda yadda yadda. I get it, sheesh! There is also a lot of time spent describing the castle plumbing. (LOL What?!) And how Cullen’s kilt is pleaded. And don’t get me started on the number of times it is spoon-fed to the reader the reasons why Bronwyn’s father was such a dick to her. It’s wasn’t that difficult a concept to comprehend. I’m not stupid, I understood the explanation the first time I read it, no need to rehash it over and over again. Sometimes even in the same damn sentence! Honestly, at one point there was a line of dialogue that was something close to this- “I’m going to lock her in her room so no man can marry her therefore no man will marry her because she will be locked in her room.” No shit. SMH
Sorry for the rambles, but the way I see it, if I feel passionately enough about a book I’ve just read to go on a mini rant about it then it must mean that it made me care enough about its story and the characters. Otherwise, I’ve read many a dud where my reaction was simply, “well that was stupid” or “I want those few hours back” and I quickly moved on not giving it another thought. So yeah, not hating on this one. Just merely annoyed by a few things that I feel could have made a good book so much better.
Take from that what you will. But honestly I did enjoy this one.
Cullen was a giant goofy dork (in a good way), when he wasn’t hulking around being a caveman. Bronwyn was an independent lady who fought for herself every single step of the journey (you go girl!), when she wasn’t being wishy-washy… or taking a friggin bath! Druce was adorable. Bonnie was an interesting character, if not a tad random. I liked Alarik and his sister Raelin. I enjoyed every scene with the handmaids, be they in the sewing room or tidying up they were always entertaining to me.
So yeah, 3.5 stars from me (4 stars seemed too high, but 3 stars seemed too low).
Boom! There it is.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2017
When is honor is sullied by his clan's nemesis Laird Erik McQuade, who tells the Court of Scotland that Cullen McJames, has stolen his daughter's virtue. Cullen McJames does the only thing he can do. He steals the daughter Bronwyn instead. Bronwyn will not go quietly, she will not be punished for something that she didn't do, neither would she be used in these clam wars. Cullen has much to learn about this lass's fighting spirit and Bronwyn will learn that there is much that Cullen can teach her as well.
March 14, 2024
Mon préféré des 3 livres de la saga. Après avoir lu le tome 1, j'ai enchainé avec la suite. C'est l'histoire du frère du héros du 1. Et bien que j'ai un faible pour le personnage de Brodick, j'ai préféré l'histoire de Cullen et Bronwyn.
C'est écrit dans un français soutenu et très agréable à lire.
C'est écrit dans un français soutenu et très agréable à lire.
April 15, 2011
Overall Rating: 4.25 // Action: 3 / Emotion: 3.75 / Romance: 3.75 / Sensuous: 4 / Intrigue: 2 / Medieval Flavor: 3 // Humor: 0 / Tears: 0
In an effort to keep his daughter off the marriage market (and to devalue the name of his hated enemies) Laird Erik McQuade tells the king and his courtiers that Cullen McJames has dishonored his daughter. Boldly, Cullen determines to kidnap Bronwyn McQuade to kill two birds with one stone. Their marriage would clear his name and the family ties would end the thirty-five-year-old long feud between the clans.
In The Warrior's Bed is an enjoyable read about a charming, hunky Scottish rogue who tries to win the heart of a strong-willed, determined Scottish lass who doesn't share his point of view. Although Cullen and Bronwyn share a connection and fight their way towards falling in love, the book features more sexual tension and graphic love making than emotional angst.
A more detailed review of In The Warrior's Bed can be found at my blog
Wolf Bear Does Books.
In an effort to keep his daughter off the marriage market (and to devalue the name of his hated enemies) Laird Erik McQuade tells the king and his courtiers that Cullen McJames has dishonored his daughter. Boldly, Cullen determines to kidnap Bronwyn McQuade to kill two birds with one stone. Their marriage would clear his name and the family ties would end the thirty-five-year-old long feud between the clans.
In The Warrior's Bed is an enjoyable read about a charming, hunky Scottish rogue who tries to win the heart of a strong-willed, determined Scottish lass who doesn't share his point of view. Although Cullen and Bronwyn share a connection and fight their way towards falling in love, the book features more sexual tension and graphic love making than emotional angst.
A more detailed review of In The Warrior's Bed can be found at my blog
Wolf Bear Does Books.
January 17, 2015
A great Book. Cullen and Bronwyn are such a delightful couple and although There was a bit much of distrust during the book I loved all of them to pieces
Can't wait to read all the other books in this series and really hope that the Main secondary characters all will get a Book of their own
Can't wait to read all the other books in this series and really hope that the Main secondary characters all will get a Book of their own
April 2, 2011
Och, too much Scottish accent silliness. I dinnae like it verra much.
And also the antagonists were ridiculously, insanely (literally) over the top. I like a little more subtlety.
And also the antagonists were ridiculously, insanely (literally) over the top. I like a little more subtlety.
August 13, 2021
I enjoyed this book, mostly because of the Hero, Cullen McJames. Through the whole book he behaved in a way that while sometimes arrogant, only had the best intentions in mind for the heroine, Bronwyn. Cullen stole her for a bride from his rival clan after her father falsely accused him of taking her virtue. Erik McQuade made this proclamation before King James and all of the court in order to justify his future attacks on the McJames clan and to hide his daughter away, thus retaining her dowry.
However, Cullen's honor needed to be satisfied, so he wanted to marry Bronwyn. Other factors would be helping to settle the differences between the clans and his raging attraction to the lass that he had interacted with only once. Bronwyn had just been falsely called a slut by her father and brothers in front of their clan and then in front of court and king. Prior to that, she had been treated no better than a servant for her entire life as her father thought her useless as a girl.
So you would think that she would be happy to go with Cullen? No, she spends a good portion of the book thinking about how she wants to get back to her clan and how she does not know Cullen. Meanwhile, he and his clan are nothing but kind to her - except when she acts like a spoiled brat. I mean, I get she did not want to be "stolen", but she was just as captive with her father. It was bizarre. Plus from the very first interaction, Cullen and Bronwyn had amazing chemistry and sexy times. She just was not giving him a chance.
Honestly that part was really annoying, but overall I enjoyed it.
However, Cullen's honor needed to be satisfied, so he wanted to marry Bronwyn. Other factors would be helping to settle the differences between the clans and his raging attraction to the lass that he had interacted with only once. Bronwyn had just been falsely called a slut by her father and brothers in front of their clan and then in front of court and king. Prior to that, she had been treated no better than a servant for her entire life as her father thought her useless as a girl.
So you would think that she would be happy to go with Cullen? No, she spends a good portion of the book thinking about how she wants to get back to her clan and how she does not know Cullen. Meanwhile, he and his clan are nothing but kind to her - except when she acts like a spoiled brat. I mean, I get she did not want to be "stolen", but she was just as captive with her father. It was bizarre. Plus from the very first interaction, Cullen and Bronwyn had amazing chemistry and sexy times. She just was not giving him a chance.
Honestly that part was really annoying, but overall I enjoyed it.
March 23, 2023
dnf @ 27%
I did pick up this book because I wanted it read a kidnapping romance. Yet when I reached the kidnapping part I found it very unsettling. It’s not that it was dark or cruel but more like it wasn’t taking heroine’s predicament seriously, nor did I feel like hero particularly care for her. He only kidnapped her to salvage his pride and fix his reputation. This made it hard for me warm up to hero because even though he didn’t take heroine’s ‘maidenhead’ as her father accused him, he was no innocent. He still groped her and refused to leave her alone because he was acting like a horny teenager. And I’ve read enough books to predict just how the story will progress with hero being an inconsiderate and entitled caveman and heroine will of course become a doormat because the sex is just so hot.
I did pick up this book because I wanted it read a kidnapping romance. Yet when I reached the kidnapping part I found it very unsettling. It’s not that it was dark or cruel but more like it wasn’t taking heroine’s predicament seriously, nor did I feel like hero particularly care for her. He only kidnapped her to salvage his pride and fix his reputation. This made it hard for me warm up to hero because even though he didn’t take heroine’s ‘maidenhead’ as her father accused him, he was no innocent. He still groped her and refused to leave her alone because he was acting like a horny teenager. And I’ve read enough books to predict just how the story will progress with hero being an inconsiderate and entitled caveman and heroine will of course become a doormat because the sex is just so hot.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 9, 2023
I started this while cruising with my husband in the Caribbean because I was on a 45 min. bus ride in the Dominican Republic....not much going on. I liked the author's attention to historical details and her use of the Scots dialect for her characters. She highlighted the plight of women in the 16oo's and how many marriages came to be without the consent of the woman but rather from the monarch or patriarch. This one just happened to involve a love story destined to be from the onset. I figured this was book 2 in a series since Cullen's brother and wife played a supporting role in this story. I will probably check out more in this series and also from this author. It's a sweet story with a nice amount of spice.
June 25, 2024
Une fois n'est pas coutume, j'ai complètement succombé à la plume si fine de Mary Wine. Entre des personnages forts et attachants, une intrigue fort bien menée, un magnifique décor et une bonne dose de tension palpable, d'humour, de complot, de rebondissements, de sensualité et d'émotions vives, je me suis littéralement régalée ! Si vous cherchez un passionnant Highlander vous tienne en haleine du début jusqu'à la fin et qui vous fasse délicieusement vibrer, alors Dans le lit d'un guerrier est exactement ce qu'il vous faut... Une palpitante aventure qui est à découvrir et redécouvrir pour les amateurs de ce genre...
𝑴𝒐𝒏 𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒔 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒑𝒍𝒆𝒕 𝒔𝒖𝒓 𝒍𝒆 𝒃𝒍𝒐𝒈 𝒊𝒄𝒊: https://wp.me/p5AuT9-e9r
𝑴𝒐𝒏 𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒔 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒑𝒍𝒆𝒕 𝒔𝒖𝒓 𝒍𝒆 𝒃𝒍𝒐𝒈 𝒊𝒄𝒊: https://wp.me/p5AuT9-e9r
May 27, 2020
This was more like a bit of story in between sex sessions (way too many). The same emotions were rehashed over and over so it was a bit boring. Can’t really feel the love between the H & h, at best it was affection and lust.
Quite a few elements from the previous book in this series such as h never had a chance to look at a man before, or to get close to any man before, but feels a great deal of interest in and insta lust for the H make it irritating to read the same thing one too many times.
Totally forgettable.
Quite a few elements from the previous book in this series such as h never had a chance to look at a man before, or to get close to any man before, but feels a great deal of interest in and insta lust for the H make it irritating to read the same thing one too many times.
Totally forgettable.
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