Virtue: Sons of Scotland, Book 1

Sons of Scotland #1

by Victoria Vane

A man without a past....

Abandoned at a monastery as a young child, Alexander serves two masters - God and the fading memories of his past life - the one he never got to live. As he nears the day to take his vows, he’s sent on a last sojourn into the real world, but what begins as a test of faith becomes a journey to manhood.

And a woman who doesn’t know her own heart....

Born from the line of two kings, Lady Sibylla Mac William is abandoned by her sire as a child and then ruled illegitimate. Though she lives a happy life under her uncle’s protection, Sibylla craves something more, but never could she imagine losing her heart to the would-be monk who unexpectedly arrives to tutor her brother.

Together, they will forge the future of a kingdom....

When dark secrets from the past come to light, Alex and Sibylla’s fates become inextricably entwined. Will Alex choose the safe and secure path he knows, or will he reject holy orders to embrace his true destiny...and the woman he loves?

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Historical Fiction, Amazon, Medieval

Audible Audio

First published September 15, 2017

About the author

ABOUT VICTORIA VANE

Victoria Vane is a bestselling award-winning author of smart and sexy romance. Her books have received many accolades to include the 2016 Red Carpet Award for Jewel of the East, 2014 RONE Award for Treacherous Temptations as well as Library Journal Best E-Book romance of 2012 for The Devil DeVere series. Victoria also writes romantic historical fiction as Emery Lee. Look for her new Highland saga coming summer of 2017.


Contact info:
Email: victoria.vane@hotmail.com Website: www.victoriavane.com
Blog: www.embracingromance.com
Blog:https://wildandwickedcowboys.wordpres...
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/YVeXrf
Twitter: @authorvictoriav Pinterest: http://bit.ly/1vONQZh
Amazon: http://amzn.to/10QMKT5 Goodreads: http://bit.ly/1sccsM4
YOU TUBE : http://bit.ly/1yNtEMP

AWARDS & ACCOLADES
2016 Red Carpet Finalist for ROUGH RIDER
2016 Red Carpet Finalist for JEWEL OF THE EAST
2015 Red Carpet Finals for SLOW HAND
2014 RONE Award for Treacherous Tempatations
2014 Rone Nomination for The Sheik Retold also LASR Best Book 2013 Nominee
THE DEVIL DEVERE SERIES
Library Journal Best E-Book Romance 2012, LR Cafe Best Series Nominee 2012
A Wild Night's Bride
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
•IRC Reader's Choice historical romance nominee
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
The Virgin Huntress
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
The Devil You Know
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
• The Romance Reviews Best Historical Romance Nominee
• LR Café Best Historical Romance nominee 2012
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
The Devil's Match
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
• The Romance Reviews Top Pick
• LASR Reviews Book of the Month December 2012
• Swept Away by Romance Best Historical Romance of 2012
• LR Café Best Author Nominee 2012
• Swept Away by Romance Favorite Author 2012
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
A Devil's Touch
Swept Away by Romance Best Novella 2013 nominee
A Breach of Promise , December 2011 Ellora's Cave
• Night Owl Reviews “Top Pick”
• Reading Romances 5 flames and “Pen Award”
• TBR Pile 5stars/Book of the month winner September 2012
• LASR Erotic Reviews 5 STAR/Book of the Month Nominee
• The Romance Studio 5 Sweetheart Nominee
• TRS CAPA Nominee 2012

Reviews

[Arlena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Virtue
Author: Victoria Vane
Publisher: Dragonblade Publishing
Series: Sons of Scotland # 1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Virtue" by Victoria Vane

MY SYNOPSIS

As always this author gives her readers another well written read that will keep one thrilled and intrigued with a story that also keeps one turning the pages to see what will happen next in this Highlander Scottish Romance series. The story features two main characters...Sibylla Mac William and Alexander. It was very interesting that when these two meet you will be able to feel the connection that is their between them. We find Alexander not really knowing of his heritage, left to leave as a monk but goes as a teacher to help a Highland family that needed a Tudor. After arriving and seeing and meeting Lady Sibylla his finds that his heart is conflicted. Now, why is that? This is where I say I don't want to spoil it for you so, you will have to pick up this read to see if these two will get their HEA.

I liked how the twist and turns, fast pace and surprises that were feed into the story that really keeps the reader on the edge of there seats wondering how this story will come out in the end. Be prepared for a little bit of it all from... 'secrets, betrayals, danger, passion and love' that will take the reader into the next series of 'Sons of Scotland.'

[Sophia · Rating 4 out of 5]

When a throne is within grasp, men will do brutal and cunning actions to take it and hold it. Now, the man on the throne is weakening and the wolves are circling. Highland Scotland of the Middle Ages comes to exciting and colorful life in this first installment to the Sons of Scotland series. I anticipated a good Highlander story, but the author produced a fantastic work that carried me away into the story so well that I could not stop reading.

The backdrop of the story was probably the strongest character of the book though I did enjoy following along as young Alexander experienced a coming of age and the first leg of his journey to destiny. Yes, this book was very much the set up for a much larger story. It introduced the setting, situation, players, and the first moves in this next part of Scotland's history. Alexander and Sybilla are at the center of it all, but its obvious that its a much broader story.

My only niggle for the whole story was the wish to have an ancestry chart or list of characters because at first I was rather confused as to the connections of all the people mentions and its a big part of the story to know how the present folks connect to the previous generations. I eventually got it sorted in my mind and just had to pay close attention to who was related to whom and who was supporting whom.

This felt more like a historical fiction with a strong romantic element than a straight up Highlander Romance. I think that's important to know because the romance is sweet and slow burn and it takes the back seat a few times. The romance shares the focus with all the other things going on from Alexander learning the secrets of his past to the action and intrigue going on with those who are maneuvering to change who controls Scotland.

Alexander was an instant favorite for me. He is intelligent, resourceful, and has a quiet courage unlike many of the hot-headed, impetuous people around him. And, that group includes the fiery, beautiful Sybilla. I took a bit to warm up to her because she had a tendency to push at Alexander and attempt to force him into things when he said no or was reluctant just because she wanted something. But, she was young and there was clear growth as the story progressed and she saw how actions or words bred consequences. She wasn't mean or self-centered and she was courageous enough to sacrifice to help her family and Alexander. I ended up liking them both and look forward to what is to come for them. Things were at a dark and dangerous place when this story ended and set up for what is to come.

And, yes, that means that it reads like a first volume of one story rather than as its own self-contained story. I can't wait to see what comes next. I'm not sure if Alexander and Sybilla will continue to be the leads or if the spotlight will shift a little to a couple of the other pivotal characters in the next book. Either way, I can't wait to see what comes next.

Those who enjoy deep and well-developed historical background, attention to the details of the time, and a plot that is taking its time to build the excitement and tension for what is to come, and of course a solid romance pair in their historical romances should definitely give Virtue a try.

My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Monique · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alexander was sent in great haste to Portmahomack monastery when he was a small child. And in 1151, MacAeth, thane of Kilmuir, came to the monastery needing a tutor for his son Domnall. Alexander is the chosen one, as Father Gregor thinks it a good idea for Alexander to see the world before taking his vows. At Castle Kilmuir, Lady Sybilla and her cousin Ailis notice visitors approaching: it’s Alexander, whom Sybilla thinks quite handsome. Alexander has barely seen anything beyond the walls of the monastery and is shaken to his core by Sybilla’s existence; he starts to question whether becoming a man of the cloth is really what he should become, even before he learns of secrets that had been hidden from him, and could alter his destiny.

Victoria Vane paints a delightful portrait of medieval Scotland, the characters are crisply drawn, and plenty of relevant historical details are provided, and Ms. Vane’s writing is even more gorgeous than ever. Sybilla and Alexander, as well as some other characters, have extremely complex backstories. I loved that Alexander had planned to become an illuminator and a scribe, which demonstrates the seriousness of the author in establishing an accurate historical context. Ms. Vane’s prose is marvellous, so fluid and elegant, although I had an issue with the dialogues. I will not take this into account in my rating because it’s personal and quite a few authors also do it: when most characters are Scottish, I fail to see the necessity of conveying the accent, such as: “Nae, ye dinna ken”. Especially in this case, I felt it broke the marvellous flow of the narrative, to me it felt like hiccups, and I somewhat lost my concentration.

Victoria Vane entirely captures the atmosphere of medieval Scotland, whether in the descriptions of the building, the clothes, the politically charged atmosphere, and the conflicts between Church and State, England and Scotland, and local clan disputes. The romance is lovely, and Sybilla and Alexander have unusual and difficult hurdles to conquer, which were not those I had predicted; their romance is pure and true. My favourite characters were strangely enough not the leads, but Malcolm, Sybilla’s father, and Domnall, who is so complex and unpredictable, I have no idea what will happen to him, what he will do.

VIRTUE owes as much to historical fiction as to historical romance, although the romance plays a pivotal part in the story. VIRTUE is a book that should appeal to fans of Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett, not because of similar storylines, far from it, but because of the authenticity of the story.



I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.

[Jaci · Rating 5 out of 5]

Before I start my review I just have to say that I might be acquiring an addiction to Audiobooks. The narrator has a wonderful sexy deep voice with an authentic Scottish accent. The Gaelic language is one that I have never really pronounced properly and now I don't have to. Joshua Manning does it for me. Now on to my review.

I am sure that I am not the first American to get frustrated by the complicated history of the British Isles. It seemed that everyone thought they had a legitimate right to the throne of Scotland. All the politics, treachery, betrayal that went on sometimes had me giving up on a book. When I was in school we were taught American History, and I am woefully ignorant of the history of a Country that has been around for thousands of years.

But I am learning, and Victoria's Virtue is a stunning novel of Love, Beauty, and Faith with the backdrop of a time and place she invites you into, I was enthralled from start to finish. This is a truly a love story for all time. Alexander has spent his life in a Monastery since he was 4 years old. He only has vague memories of his family. He has never thought about leaving the monastery because he has nowhere to go. Then he is sent to the Castle Kilmuir to tutor the heir.

Sybylla lives at Castle Kilmuir with her brother and cousin. She has never been kissed and has not met any man that tempts her. She is expected to make a advantages marriage that will be an ally and support her brother's ambitions. Just when she thought that she would never find love she meets Alexander. They are instantly attracted to each other. Alexander knows that he can never have her, he is penniless and has no way to support her. Sybylla doesn't care about that, she loves him.

They will become hostages of the expectations of Sybylla's brother, the King and the politics and dangers of the time that they live in. There are no love matches, only arranged marriages that will benefit a family, clan or throne.

Victoria's descriptions of the Highlands of Scotland are magnificent. The story is wonderfully intricate and the characters unforgettable. I have always been a fan of Victoria's Historical Romance and consider myself her #1 fan. If you love romance, stunning writing and Scotland you have to read this book.

[Lori D · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an amazing story that I literally could not put down. It is rich with history and descriptions of people and places that made you feel you were there with the characters. Alexander, was a boy when he was left by his mother at a monastery to be raised by the monks. He has devoted his life to God but has many unanswered questions as to why his mother never sent for him. Alex is asked to leave the monastery to become a tutor for MacAedh,Thane of Kilmuir's nephew and begins a journey with no guarantees of what is to come. Lady Sibylla Mac William is the niece of MacAedh and is striving to to find her place in the world She was left in care of her uncle and feels like she does not belong anywhere. When Alexander and Sibylla meet, they feel an attraction as two souls in search of answers and a place to belong. The attraction is almost palpable but Alex is torn because he has only known the monastery and knows not what God's plans are for him. Forces are in play with the actual lineage of these two, which comes to light and changes everything. Victoria Vane has written a powerful and intriguing novel that depicts the life and times in great deal of 1100's Scotland. This story holds you mesmerized turning each page as quickly as you can to see what will happen. The ending leaves the reader with a longing to read the next book in this series as the journey will continue. I would highly recommend this book.

[C Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secrets. History. Betrayal.

I love this new historical by Victoria Vane, it really captivated me and sustained my attention, that if I didn't need to work, I'd have read this in one sitting.

Until now, I'm still thinking of how to express my feelings towards the story, more than a week after finishing it. The mastery of the story, the intrigue and strategy specially when it comes to the Royal Court, I felt like I was there alongside the characters. Their emotions were expressed vividly - the fear and anxiety, waiting for answers, the worry, and elation.

The only spoiler I can give is this: it's a semi-cliffhanger. The author didn't really leave me breathless, but left me in anticipation. From the start, a mystery surrounded Alex and growing up with the monks, he really had an advantage. The time came when he needed to know his roots, and there was excitement behind it.

I was on the edge, when Sibylla went to the King and ended up imprisoned. I didn't expect an HEA with the way things were going but there is one. The ending opened a lot of possibilities, they could succeed or fail. Should they succeed, then they'll go through a lot of hurdles. I can't wait for the next!

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

Virtue: Sons of Scotland by Victoria Vane is an exciting and highly anticipated Highland Romance. Book 1 in her new "Sons of Scotland" series, and it promises to be a very intriguing and interesting series. Ms. Vane is a multi- genre author, but this is her first foray into the world of Medieval Highland Romance and in my humble opinion, she nailed "Virtue".

This is the story of Lady Sibylla Mac William, who has the bloodline of two kings, but she is ruled as illegitimate, she, her mother and her brother were all abandoned by their sire, but they have come to live comfortably under their uncle's protection. Alexander, was sent to a monastery as a young child, to protect him from enemies, who has killed his father and possibly his mother. Due to creed, more land and a title. Alexander aka Alex is sent on a sojourn to tutor Sibylla's brother, who is ready to accept his heritage, and his uncle feels he needs book knowledge as well as, how to handle a sword, thus begins Sibylla and Alexander's journey to finding their HEA. When secrets of his parents and his past are revealed to Alexander, he and Sibylla's lives are put in danger, should anyone learn who Alexander truly is, and who is father was, Alexander's life will be forfeited, as well as Sibylla's . Thus begins this incredible story of love, sacrifice, friendship, turmoil, and incredible conflict.

Well written, fast paced, with an enjoyable and engaging cast of characters. The plot flows seamlessly and is executed effortlessly, in my opinion. This story was well written with twists and turns, and a few surprises along the way. If you enjoy Highland Romance, then "Virtue" is your next exciting adventure into a world of passion, danger, the turmoil within the Highlands, secrets, betrayal, conflict and a forever kind of love. Alexander and Sibylla must flee her uncle's protection and his castle. This chapter of Alexander and Sibylla's life comes to a satisfying conclusion.The next chapter of their life is only beginning!

"Virtue" is a powerful, compelling and intriguing story. I for one, look forward to the next chapter in this mesmerizing Highland Romance. A must read Medieval Highland Romance. Well done, indeed, Victoria Vane!! I can hardly wait for the next chapter of this highly anticipated series. A definite keeper with a treasure of Scottish history. I absolutely loved Alexander and Sibylla's story!!
I received a complimentary copy, however, all opinions are my own. I also pre-ordered a copy.

*Please note: Virtue" is NOT sexuality explicit but it does have sensual content.*



Rating: 5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR

[Aoi · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

I'm so completely stoked to have read a Highland romance after ages! This series is a bit of a slow burn, but with the kind of rich detailing & era- feel the author has worked into this novel, one shouldn't complain.

[Coco.V]

🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/17/2020)! 🎁

[Lacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

***ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review***

As a woman in love with Scotland and the romanticism of days past, I cannot express how excited I was to immerse myself in this Historical Romance by one of my most favorite authors. As someone who's had the pleasure of seeing the wonder of the highlands, the culture, and beauty I loved every moment devoted to reading this piece of literature. Victoria Vane stuns and wows with lush, vivid imagery; painting pictures with deep and fascinating depictions of setting from page to page. With the introduction of each character and their subsequent development I found myself falling ever so deeply.

Alexander, our hero as a Scottish highlander is brave, honest, kind, and intelligent. He is also alarmingly beautiful, both in and out, ensuring that every reader will fall for his endearing nature and handsomely described physical attributes. As a man on the path to take vows at a monastery and an orphan, he has never held himself above others, never wanted for anything, never truly understood the human proclivity for selfishness or revenge. However, with his freshly assigned post as a tutor for a young man who has ties to one of the former Scottish kings, a chance to learn of his past arises and with it comes danger as secrets are uncovered. As Alexander's lineage and past come to haunt his every waking moment, he realizes that his fate may not lie with the Monks at Portmahomack Monastery, but as a man destined to save his people by right. What's more, the potential for experiencing the wonder of life through hearth, love, and sacrifice begin to weave into his path, should he yield to them.

Lady Sibylla, a beautiful and headstrong maiden, with wits that induce coy smiles and audible laughter brings light and tenderness to a world filled with deceit, hate, and treachery as she gives her heart and hope to Alexander. She is bright and forthcoming, with a heart of gold and a fearless strength. As she attempts to reconcile with what is expected and what must be done to preserve her way of life and save her family, she finds herself in an unexpected position steeped in harsh reality with hard choices begging to be made.

As these two strive for passion, safety, and truths their fates intertwine into love despite the danger and heartbreak that may lay waste to everything they hold dear. The journey is as painful as it is wondrous and watching their love unfold amidst the murderous intentions, nefarious acts, and traitorous dealings as England and Scotland come to a head while Scotland fights for freedom and liberation of their country will hold you in place until the final page is turned.

If you have any love for rich and beautifully written stories full of love with historical settings and elements, this book is most certainly for you. I always love Victoria's work, and Virtue is no exception. From the main to the secondary characters, I couldn't help but become inexplicably attached to each and every one, their fates a constant concern for me. The feelings stirred by history and romantic fiction is one to behold. It takes talent to manage both, to create a world so full of life with a dose of reality thrown in and this book provides the reader with the chance to learn and enjoy a tale of love simultaneously. I absolutely loved it and cannot wait for the next installment!

[Eileen Dandashi · Rating 4 out of 5]

How is Virtue Born?

Alexander is a pure soul.  He hasn’t experienced the desires of the body.  But he understands the Latin words on his dagger, Truth, Valor and Vengeance, a dagger given him by his mother on the last day he saw her when he was only four years old.  He’s a man of the heart and very willingly I supported his cause!

His world his rocked with so many events, he knew not before.  His understanding of truth no longer holds true.  But will his belief in God remain strong? In his essence, he seeks what feels right, even though uncertain of its direction.

His feelings of connection to Lady Sibylla propels the story forward. Her presence awakens the man he could not be. He hasn’t experienced the love of family.  He sees it in Lady Sibylla’s.  His groin warms when he thinks of the lovely lady.  Will they be able to reach beyond the machinations of politics?

Author Vane explains well the intrigues of the times.  It’s complicated and dangerous. I learned several Scottish words I hadn’t know before, definitely a plus, since this is Vane’s first book in the Highlands.

Lady Sibylla looks to Alexander, thinking him weak, but subconsciously knowing otherwise.

But deep down, she knew it was strength rather than weakness that drove his action. Alexander was a man of integrity who would only be directed by his own moral code—and that was exactly why she loved him. She understood his need to confront his past, and desperately hoped that, once he had the answers he sought, he would make his way back to her.

Male pride, political conspiracies, and simple love drives the story forward. Lady Sibylla is in the middle of this tangle, a woman unable to direct her own future, which definitely pulls on my heartstrings. Does she have the strength of her forebears to take what she wants?
Much is left unresolved as the book ends. Who will be the next king? Who will be his queen? Where will Vane take us in book two of the series?

[L J · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great series beginning!


This book is the first in a series of a story of seven Scottish brothers from an ancient time whose descendants are now in conflict over leadership of Scotland. In this first book, Alexander has been raised as an orphan in a monastery and he is a year from taking his religious vows. He is sent to a castle to act as a tutor to a future clan leader and while the trip to the castle gives Alex keys to his actual identity, he also meets said leader's sister, Sibylla. The two become embroiled in a perilous situation and must engage in subterfuge while risking their lives to save themselves and others. They also have an attraction between them that might keep Alexander from those final vows....
The plot is enthralling, the characters are interesting, and this book was a thoroughly engaging read from start to finish! I highly recommend this book to readers of historical romance novels who enjoy the history as much as the love story. I am looking forward to the next book to see what happens with this group of people and their future.

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hidden at a Monastery by his mother, Alexander plans to take his vows and dedicate his life to God. Summoned and sent to tutor a possible King of Scotland, his life takes a surprising turn. Sibylla, drawn to her brother's tutor, strives to become his friend and the romance begins. As this was a time of unrest in Scotland, Alexander doesn't realize his roll in the future of his country, until MacAedh provides the truth of his heritage to him. A decision is his to make-take vows, but which ones? This is a very well written romance, set in the beauty of Scotland, with a Hero and Heroine to cheer on as you make the journey with them.

[Tammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great start to a new series. Alexander grew up at Portmahomack Monastery and is sent to tutor at Castle Kilmuir where he meets Sibylla. There Sibylla grandmother predicts Alex’s future, will it come true? This historical read is fast-paced with plenty of drama and suspense. The story really draws you in and takes you back in time. Looking forward to more in the series.

[Sarah · Rating 2 out of 5]

I hate that the end is just a cliffhanger for the next book. Too many plot points totally unresolved.

[Vikki Vaught · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Musings

Outstanding romance. It kept me engaged from the beginning to the end. Unforgettable characters and an intriguing plot. Can't wait to read the next one in this series. Happy ☺reading 📚!

[Twinsie Talk Angie J · Rating 4 out of 5]

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I received this book from the author for an honest review.

I love Highland Romances. I love Historical Romances so to take this book was an easy pick for me!!

This book is told in 2 parts. Part one was a nice, slow ,and steady pace of a book where our couple are getting to know each other.

This book is about Alexander who has no clue about his heritage because his mother sent him away to live with the monks to protect him. He is forced to go into the “world” by his mentor before he takes his vows. Father Gregory has his go to help another Highlands family. The eldest son needs a Tudor. Once Alexander arrives his heart is conflicted between what he was raised to belied and his wants and desires of Lady Sibylla. The couple have a few scenes where she is making him face what he wants and what he feels he needs. While we have all of this happening, Alexander is discovering is true heritage. Lemme tell ya it’s a great one!!

Part two if the book is where a lot of things begin to happen and to be honest I started to get a little bit confused because soooo many names are being thrown at you. We also don’t really see our main couple together much and when we do it seemed rushed toward the end. I felt like the end of the book should have said to be continued????? I am hoping for more from this couple because I totally enjoyed it. Plus, I didn’t feel that Alexander’s story is finished?????

Even though the book was fast paced and “busy” I did enjoy it and I am looking forward to knowing what happened to Sibylla’s family. I also would love to know if the visions of Sibylla and Alexanders future will hold true!!

[Sahar's Honest Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romance and Intrigue

This was an enjoyable read. There are some questions left unanswered, but this did not take away from the romance. This is the first book in a series, and I look forward to reading the next book. This book had it all: History, mystery, and romance.

[Petula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alexander is quite comfortable with his life in the monastery surrounded by books. However before he takes his vows he is sent to be a tutor. There is a reason he has been sent to that particular place that he will soon discover. His ancestry and that of the people he is working for will cause them all a great deal of problems.
Lady Sibylla and her brother have the blood of two kings running through them, but because they have been declared illegitimate their claim to the throne of Scotland can never be.
Her brother carries a grudge about it that could see them all in great danger.
Set in a complicated part of Scottish history this is the start of a series that needs to be read in order. We have a very unlikely hero and a headstrong heroine. Both will put their lives on the line for those they love. Political intrigue and self serving villains make this an exciting read.
I can't wait to read the rest in the series.

[Roslyn Stillman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book of Ms Vanes medieval stories that I have read. I very much enjoyed the development of the characters and the story line. I found the innocence of both the hero and heroine to be very much to my liking and the fact that it was a fairly clean book. The story had much to keep the reading interested with mystery, suspense, adventure and of course romance. The thing that I didn’t like was that Ms Vane used many Scottish words and names which I had trouble with figuring out how to pronounce them. In saying that it is not a reason not to read the book and as this is the first of a series and finished with a bit of a cliffhanger I will am looking forward to reading the next one. I feel this would make a very good audio book 

[kathy gartlan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like this book. Very detailed and lots of twists and turns.

[TJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5/5.0
Although this story didn’t capture me as others have done, there is no disputing this author can write riveting stories!

[Carole Burant · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love any book that deals with Medieval Scotland and this one doesn't disappoint! Not only do you get history of those trying times but you also get the love story between Alexander and Sybilla. I'm very much looking forward to the next book in this series "Valor" which I have on order:) Definitely recommend this book.

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Readers who pick up “Virtue” are in for an amazing adventure!

Read full review in the 2017 December issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Virtue

Very excited about this series. The characters and plot are well done and keep you turning pages. Looking forward to more!!

[Maria · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars - I want to start by saying this is a brand new author for me.

Alexander, as a young child was whisked away by a priest who his mother had intrusted with his well-being and safety. She told Alex she would return for him when it was safe to do so but his identity was to remain a secret.

16 years later, prior to taking his vows as a monk, he is asked to go and tutor a young man at a castle for a period of time. There his path in life is tested. He begins to discover secrets about his past and also begins to discover brand new feelings and emotions for a beautiful lass who is the niece of the chieftain who retrieved him from the monestary to tutor his nephew.

Lady Sibylla McWilliam and her brother are descendants of two lines of Kings, but both have been officially ruled illegitimate because of political strife. This is fine with Sibylla for she is content with living with her Uncle. She is now at the age of marriage but really does not take to the idea, until she meets a young man who is to become a monk very soon. He is there to serve as a tutor to her brother.

Her feelings start to strongly develop for Alex. He is the lad she feels in her heart she wants. She feels there is hope in fulfilling her dreams with Alex because he has not taken his vows yet.

These two strong characters must overcome so much! Alex, the more he learns of his past history, the more he needs to make things right, while figuring out his path in life and sorting out his feelings for the beautiful lass that has gotten under his skin. Sibylla has to determine how far she is willing to go to have Alex in her life while juggling her duty to her uncle, brother and Clan.

This story kept me on my toes for most of it. As soon as I started reading, I realized I had read part of the story before and at the time I had felt lost because of the way it had ended. I almost was not going to continue reading "Virtue" because of that... but I wanted to read it with an open mind which I feel I did. The story was called "The Maiden of Moray" and it was in an anthology I had read back in April 2017. "Virtue" has two parts in it. Part 1 of "Virtue", I believe is the story of "The Maiden of Moray" with slight changes. Then it continues with part 2, which is where it continues with the rest of the story. I am assuming The Maiden of Moray was the prequel.

I was very happy to see the story get better and better and it kept me wanting to know more, but unfortunately it ended with a very large Cliffhanger, which I will not spoil here. That left me lost because I did not expect that at all. I personally do not like Cliffhangers at all.

I hope in book 2 all is addressed and revealed. After reading the story, kind of a second time around, I feel invested in the hero and heroine, Alexander and Sibylla. The book by all means is very good, but I was left hanging.

For my review ratings a 4-star to me is a great story that left me completely satisfied. A 5-star, is an exceptional story one that not only satisfied me, but moved me and touched my heart. One that I would keep in my personal Library.

3.5 Stars is still a good rating, I just could not fully give it 4 stars because I felt I was fully invested and then there was the cliffhanger that left me unsatisfied as a reader.

Will I buy book 2? Of course! I am hoping everything will be addressed in book 2. I read over 300 books a year and I am completely honest in all of my reviews. I review every single book I read, never do I not. So with this said, I do look forward to book 2 in "The Sons of Scotland" series by this author.

[Lin Lyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

VIRTUE
Victoria Vane

A man without a past… Abandoned at a monastery as a young child, Alexander serves two masters—God and the fading memories of his past life—the one he never got to live. As he nears the day to take his vows, he’s sent on a last sojourn into the real world, but what begins as a test of faith becomes a journey to manhood.

And a woman who doesn’t know her own heart… Born from the line of two kings, Lady Sibylla Mac William is abandoned by her sire as a child and then ruled illegitimate. Though she lives a happy life under her uncle’s protection, Sibylla craves something more, but never could she imagine losing her heart to the would-be monk who unexpectedly arrives to tutor her brother.

Together, they will forge the future of a kingdom… When dark secrets from the past come to light, Alex and Sibylla’s fates become inextricably entwined. Will Alex choose the safe and secure path he knows, or will he reject holy orders to embrace his true destiny… and the woman he loves?

The story started 1134 A.D. in Dunnottar Castle, Kingdom of Scotland. Young Alex was taken by Father Gregor to Portmahomack Monastery for safety and protection. He lived as a monk for years not remembering his past. His story started 17 years later when he was taken as tutor to Castle Kilmuir, Black Isle.

He met Lady Sibylla Mac William. And fell in love with her.

The Prophecy of Lady Olith
“She carries the blood of two kings, but yer bairns will bear the blood of three. Ye will have many bairns. From yer loins will spring two sons and many daughters. They will sire two great clans that will spread across the Highlands from east to west… but with this great blessing also comes a curse. Yer son’s sons will ever be at odds. Relentlessly, they will make war upon one another—until the verra last drop of blood is shed.”

Well written.
Intriguing.
Promising.

Be warned that this is only Book 1 and you will be left with many questions at the end of the book. Then you will yearn for Book 2.

[NhaughtyV says Damn the Zon Save the Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Ye could be queen of this entire kingdom.”
“What good is a kingdom if I lose my heart and soul in the bargain? I love ye, Alexander MacMalcolm. There will ne’er be any other for me.”

Alexander was whisked away in the dead of night when he was a small child to live his days hidden in a monastery. Unbeknownst to him, his lineage is one linked to a powerful family, but one that could cost him his life if his true identity is discovered.

Lady Sibylla lost her heart the day she looked upon the young monk, Alexander. It’s as if their love was meant to be. But when her family is in danger, she risks all to rescue her uncle from the wrath of the King, and it’s up to Alexander to save her.

Virtue is the first in the Sons of Scotland series, and is a well written historical fiction romance…WITH A CLIFFHANGER!!! This reader was speeding along enjoying this epic tale full of intrigue, suspense, romance and a CLIFFHANGER! I’m amazed my Kindle is still in one piece.

Recommend this story, but if you are NOT a fan of cliffhangers, you have been warned.

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an amazing, detailed story of war and intrigue to crown a king of Scotland. Multiple characters are in the running including the least likely Alexander, who has been living in a monastery since he was young.
Danger and plotting are everywhere you turn in this book and you wonder if any of the good guys are going to make it out alive.
This book is just the beginning of the series (which Victoria Vane told me is based on actual events in history - with some embellishments) and so while there is a Happily Ever After for now - the main characters are still in danger at the end of this book. I can't wait to see how the story progresses.

[Marlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disappointed !....3.5 Stars!

Alexander and Sybilla. This is a story of love, intrigue, a bit of mystery and some suspense. I’m disappointed with the ending but I guess we’re being set-up for the next book to find out what happened to them. Who became king?