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The Scots #1
Perfect Strangers
A devoted lady-in-waiting to Queen Elizabeth, Gabrielle Carelton is commanded to marry Scotsman Collin Douglas, but on the eve of her wedding, Gabrielle is abducted by Collin's twin brother, Connor, the Black Douglas. Original.
319 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 1, 1996
50 people are currently reading
312 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Sinclair
63 books61 followersReb published her first book in 1989. She is the bestselling author of CALIFORNIA CARESS, PERFECT STRANGERS, MONTANA WILDFIRE ... & a bunch of other historical romance novels.
She lives on the southeast coast of New England in a big house built in 1865—haunted, of course (this is New England, aren't they're ALL haunted?—and only a five minute walk from the ocean, with a husband she loves almost as much as he loves football, fishing & firearms.
Roaming the internet is only one of her obsessions.
She lives on the southeast coast of New England in a big house built in 1865—haunted, of course (this is New England, aren't they're ALL haunted?—and only a five minute walk from the ocean, with a husband she loves almost as much as he loves football, fishing & firearms.
Roaming the internet is only one of her obsessions.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
January 13, 2014
Basic plot run-down: Elizabeth Tudor desires peace at the Scottish borders and orders lady in waiting Gabrielle Carelton to marry Scotsman Collin Douglas, but twin brother Connor has a mind to marry her himself and has her kidnapped. Despite Gabrielle being a bit plain and pudgy (at least Elizabeth's court thought her so), Connor is instantly taken with her womanly charms and can't keep his hands off of her.
I was in asleep deprived state brain-candy kind of mood and was looking for a lighter read and thought this might suit, but unfortunately I wasn't able to make it past page 200 or so. I didn't feel any chemistry between the pair, and while it was a nice change have a less-than-perfect heroine, Connor's instant attraction didn't sit well with me. Perhaps if he'd had time to know Gabrielle on the inside as well as the outside instead of insta-lust for her well-padded charms it might have worked better for me. I also felt I was being clubbed over the head with the Scottish dialect with all those cannas, doonas, maons, 'tis's. And then there's the overkill on the adjectives and flowery prose:
"Like pieces of driftwood being swept away on a forceful current..."
"Like the colors on an artist's pallet being washed away by a heavy rain, electrifying streaks of blues and reds and purples trickled together and merged."
Life's too short to finish bad books. Moving on...
I was in a
"Like pieces of driftwood being swept away on a forceful current..."
"Like the colors on an artist's pallet being washed away by a heavy rain, electrifying streaks of blues and reds and purples trickled together and merged."
Life's too short to finish bad books. Moving on...
September 15, 2015
This is one of those "late night downloads" which I succumb to after midnight, not wanting the night to end. I read the first 20 pages and thought the brogue really cool. It has an interesting premise and good start, but does not manage to keep my interest.
Connor was supposed to be this great warrior in the Borders. To avenge something against his brother Colin, which I could not figure out, he abducted his brother's English bride, Gabrielle and intended to marry her himself. Thinking all English are weak, Connor was already planning on Gabrielle's untimely death because he never though a delicate English rose would be able to survive the winter.
Gabrielle was the unfortunate podgy lady-in-waiting for Queen Elizabeth. Apparently she was often humiliated for her plus size and believed that she was, in modern day terms, too fat to be attractive.
I thought, the characterization is really interesting. Let's see how that would work out. Let no one say that I only like "traditionally pretty" girls as my heroines. I really wanted a good story for Gabrielle.
But somehow the plots really failed Connor and Gabrielle. I am not sure where the writer was going with the story. So Connor abducted Garbrielle, and? I kept waiting for the "I wonder what is special about this girl" moment and was just left hanging in the air. Other than being unfashionably overweight, I did not know what was special about Gabrielle. Other than some more abduction and some supposedly hot sex scenes, I kept wondering: so Connor is just one of those guys who like "a little more meat on his woman"? Then where was my "I don't know why but I think she is so sexy" moment? I mean either she entices with her brain or with her beauty. What is it? And Connor, other than giving really hot kisses and acting very surprised about creepily rejoicing in her "overflowing flesh filling your hands", what exactly is your role in this story?
I am sorry, this review appears to be another internal dialogue that I carry on when I meet characters who I have trouble understanding.
Overall, cool idea in terms of characterization. The lead characters are not half bad. But the plot development really failed to give Connor and Gabrielle the opportunity to become the couple they could have been.
Connor was supposed to be this great warrior in the Borders. To avenge something against his brother Colin, which I could not figure out, he abducted his brother's English bride, Gabrielle and intended to marry her himself. Thinking all English are weak, Connor was already planning on Gabrielle's untimely death because he never though a delicate English rose would be able to survive the winter.
Gabrielle was the unfortunate podgy lady-in-waiting for Queen Elizabeth. Apparently she was often humiliated for her plus size and believed that she was, in modern day terms, too fat to be attractive.
I thought, the characterization is really interesting. Let's see how that would work out. Let no one say that I only like "traditionally pretty" girls as my heroines. I really wanted a good story for Gabrielle.
But somehow the plots really failed Connor and Gabrielle. I am not sure where the writer was going with the story. So Connor abducted Garbrielle, and? I kept waiting for the "I wonder what is special about this girl" moment and was just left hanging in the air. Other than being unfashionably overweight, I did not know what was special about Gabrielle. Other than some more abduction and some supposedly hot sex scenes, I kept wondering: so Connor is just one of those guys who like "a little more meat on his woman"? Then where was my "I don't know why but I think she is so sexy" moment? I mean either she entices with her brain or with her beauty. What is it? And Connor, other than giving really hot kisses and acting very surprised about creepily rejoicing in her "overflowing flesh filling your hands", what exactly is your role in this story?
I am sorry, this review appears to be another internal dialogue that I carry on when I meet characters who I have trouble understanding.
Overall, cool idea in terms of characterization. The lead characters are not half bad. But the plot development really failed to give Connor and Gabrielle the opportunity to become the couple they could have been.
January 20, 2012
Feuds go back a long way....
Gabrielle Carelton is ordered to marry a Scotmans named Colin Douglas to reacquaint alliances between England and Scotland Borders. Their marriage would put an end to the vengeful feuds that have been getting worse by the day between the English and Scottish. This is one feud that's on the verge of being repaired by one simple marriage. Till.....
Connor Douglas also known as the Black Douglas,(his notorious name is enough to make you quiver) takes refuge and steals the spotlight and ruins his brother Colin's plan to marry Gabrielle by abducting his bride and wanting to marry her himself.All plans are set into motion. Till ........
Yet, another Feud begins, between the Douglas and Maxwell's. As you can see, lots of coins are being flipped,this novel was a page turner. It's been a while since I've read an Historical Romance. It took me a while to get used to the heavy Scottish accents, but, Boy oh Boy! It was worth it! The plot of the story was very dramatic and eventful which kept me reading it non-stop.There's love, romance, jealousy and suspense.
First off, if you love Scottish Hotties, with a possessive streak and all man from head to toe, you'll love Connor! Gabrielle, (his heroine)was soft in the beginning of the novel, but she grows stronger by each page I turned. I loved her for her willingness,strong and easy going character that she was. The one woman to snag Connor's heart and bring him to his knees with just a smile is what made her a perfect heroine. I loved it!! The emotional conflicts between this couple, was hot tensioned,strong,sexy,intriguing and all together just DELICIOUS!! Their relationship becomes stronger & stronger as the book progressed. Charming couple!
This was my first go,at reading a novel written by Rebecca Sinclair. She put a lot of thought, determination and time to write this novel,so therefore by me giving it a 5star rating,it's a definite "HECK YES" I will read another wonderful well written novel by this author.
Gabrielle Carelton is ordered to marry a Scotmans named Colin Douglas to reacquaint alliances between England and Scotland Borders. Their marriage would put an end to the vengeful feuds that have been getting worse by the day between the English and Scottish. This is one feud that's on the verge of being repaired by one simple marriage. Till.....
Connor Douglas also known as the Black Douglas,(his notorious name is enough to make you quiver) takes refuge and steals the spotlight and ruins his brother Colin's plan to marry Gabrielle by abducting his bride and wanting to marry her himself.All plans are set into motion. Till ........
Yet, another Feud begins, between the Douglas and Maxwell's. As you can see, lots of coins are being flipped,this novel was a page turner. It's been a while since I've read an Historical Romance. It took me a while to get used to the heavy Scottish accents, but, Boy oh Boy! It was worth it! The plot of the story was very dramatic and eventful which kept me reading it non-stop.There's love, romance, jealousy and suspense.
First off, if you love Scottish Hotties, with a possessive streak and all man from head to toe, you'll love Connor! Gabrielle, (his heroine)was soft in the beginning of the novel, but she grows stronger by each page I turned. I loved her for her willingness,strong and easy going character that she was. The one woman to snag Connor's heart and bring him to his knees with just a smile is what made her a perfect heroine. I loved it!! The emotional conflicts between this couple, was hot tensioned,strong,sexy,intriguing and all together just DELICIOUS!! Their relationship becomes stronger & stronger as the book progressed. Charming couple!
This was my first go,at reading a novel written by Rebecca Sinclair. She put a lot of thought, determination and time to write this novel,so therefore by me giving it a 5star rating,it's a definite "HECK YES" I will read another wonderful well written novel by this author.
August 24, 2021
2 stars for putting pen to paper.
Unfortunately this book was not for me, I can compare the experience to drinking warm coffee, not bad but not good either.
Authentic Scottish dialog almost defeated me but my main complaint with this book is why make the heroine a full figured woman only to emphasise on how large and heavy set she on almost every page. Literally, everyone who meets her comments on her size and figure in uncomplimentary terms.
I wanted to abandoned it but forced myself to finish….
Unfortunately this book was not for me, I can compare the experience to drinking warm coffee, not bad but not good either.
Authentic Scottish dialog almost defeated me but my main complaint with this book is why make the heroine a full figured woman only to emphasise on how large and heavy set she on almost every page. Literally, everyone who meets her comments on her size and figure in uncomplimentary terms.
I wanted to abandoned it but forced myself to finish….
September 18, 2021
Perfect Strangers by Rebecca Sinclair started off very well in the beginning but tend to drag a bit in a few places. Mistaken identity, voluptuous heroine and hero warrior made for a nice read. Was it great...no but it was very good. This is one that I thought would be a page turner for me but because it slowed in pace in parts, it ended up a two day read.
January 14, 2012
This is a must read historical romance.
I completely fell in love with this book and I'm certain you will too.
Perfect Strangers is set in the beautiful 16th Century lands of England and Scotland.
It's the sotry of Gabrielle Carelton who is on her way to Scotland from England to wed Colin Douglas to end all feuds between the Maxwells and the Douglases that have been going on for the past century. But on her way she is kidnapped by Colin's twin brother, The Black Douglas, Connor
Connor kidnaps Gabrielle because he needs an heir and also loves to anger his brother.
I cannot tell you to much without giving away too much of the story.
But when Gabrielle sees Connor, she feels the heat rise in her as she has never felt this feeling before.
And Connor, well, need I say more?..
But sparks fly between these two, that's for certain.
This book is filled with action, love, and oh yes, a few well written and quite respectful love/sex scenes. Nothing distasteful, but on the contrary so preciously romantic.
I must warn you that it is written in some Scottish burr but you will get the hang of it quite fast.
I mean I'm French and I understood it quite fast, so if I did, anyone can too.
The other thing I really enjoyed about the story, is that the author Rebecca chose to make her leading lady not very beautiful or not the perfect body. Which is one of her main concerns when she first gets really close for the first time with Connor, but he has a way of making her feel very beautiful, because he truly does find her beautiful and he loves that she is shapely and curvy because that makes her stronger and healthier. It also makes her perfect to have children. Through his eyes, Gabrielle eventually finds herself beautiful.
I myself am 6 feet and am curvaceous and big boned and at 47 years old, I can say that I still hold my own.
I totally loved this character for these reasons, because it made her feel so real and close to me.
Except that my husband is not taller then me but a bit shorter, lol....
But even though, this story moved me to the core, I truly enjoyed it.
I cannot wait to read another one of Rebecca Sinclair's books.
I completely fell in love with this book and I'm certain you will too.
Perfect Strangers is set in the beautiful 16th Century lands of England and Scotland.
It's the sotry of Gabrielle Carelton who is on her way to Scotland from England to wed Colin Douglas to end all feuds between the Maxwells and the Douglases that have been going on for the past century. But on her way she is kidnapped by Colin's twin brother, The Black Douglas, Connor
Connor kidnaps Gabrielle because he needs an heir and also loves to anger his brother.
I cannot tell you to much without giving away too much of the story.
But when Gabrielle sees Connor, she feels the heat rise in her as she has never felt this feeling before.
And Connor, well, need I say more?..
But sparks fly between these two, that's for certain.
This book is filled with action, love, and oh yes, a few well written and quite respectful love/sex scenes. Nothing distasteful, but on the contrary so preciously romantic.
I must warn you that it is written in some Scottish burr but you will get the hang of it quite fast.
I mean I'm French and I understood it quite fast, so if I did, anyone can too.
The other thing I really enjoyed about the story, is that the author Rebecca chose to make her leading lady not very beautiful or not the perfect body. Which is one of her main concerns when she first gets really close for the first time with Connor, but he has a way of making her feel very beautiful, because he truly does find her beautiful and he loves that she is shapely and curvy because that makes her stronger and healthier. It also makes her perfect to have children. Through his eyes, Gabrielle eventually finds herself beautiful.
I myself am 6 feet and am curvaceous and big boned and at 47 years old, I can say that I still hold my own.
I totally loved this character for these reasons, because it made her feel so real and close to me.
Except that my husband is not taller then me but a bit shorter, lol....
But even though, this story moved me to the core, I truly enjoyed it.
I cannot wait to read another one of Rebecca Sinclair's books.
May 7, 2012
Didn't like the abrupt ending;(
However, the plot line was nice, better than a lot of romance books I have read, but I still felt like it could have been a bit more exciting and intriguing, which would have automatically made this 5 stars.
Overall 4 stars, a good read;)
However, the plot line was nice, better than a lot of romance books I have read, but I still felt like it could have been a bit more exciting and intriguing, which would have automatically made this 5 stars.
Overall 4 stars, a good read;)
February 28, 2017
I was really looking forward to this book and started right away .... and I can't even say that it wasn't good. The characters were very loveable and I really liked Gabrielle and Connor and they had some very very sweet (and very long) romantic scenes but - the story itself was somewhat flat.
Oh, sure all the ingredients for a good book were there but somehow I felt as if there should be a bit more then just Gabrielle getting kidnapped over and over again and when ...well, let's just say that I wouldn't have made myself THAT vulnerable again especially right THEN.
I know, I know, that's a bit cryptic but I don't want to spoil the story for other readers, so cryptic it is.
A bit more intense, a bit more real action that feels like action and all bits and parts a bit more linked ( I still don't know why Marghereid reacted in that very peculiar way, for example) and the story a bit more ...flowing... I liked the book well enough but I won't read it again and I won't run off to read another one by the author. So I'm not convinced but nontheless it's weak three stars...
Oh, sure all the ingredients for a good book were there but somehow I felt as if there should be a bit more then just Gabrielle getting kidnapped over and over again and when ...well, let's just say that I wouldn't have made myself THAT vulnerable again especially right THEN.
I know, I know, that's a bit cryptic but I don't want to spoil the story for other readers, so cryptic it is.
A bit more intense, a bit more real action that feels like action and all bits and parts a bit more linked ( I still don't know why Marghereid reacted in that very peculiar way, for example) and the story a bit more ...flowing... I liked the book well enough but I won't read it again and I won't run off to read another one by the author. So I'm not convinced but nontheless it's weak three stars...
May 25, 2017
I found this a lovely quick read. Lots of twists and turns in this romantic story about Gabrielle who is sent by Elizabeth to Scotland to marry Colin Douglas as a means to end a longstanding feud. Along the way she is kidnapped by Connor Douglas. Kidnapped again by her ancestral kinsmen and Colin. Who wins her heart? ...
February 22, 2018
Perfect Strangers (A Historical Romance)
A really good tale, even though it took longer to read because of the dialect. Strong characters and a good plot. An enjoyable romp indeed.
A really good tale, even though it took longer to read because of the dialect. Strong characters and a good plot. An enjoyable romp indeed.
June 21, 2018
I thought this book was a fun read and a perfect stereotypical romance novel, but the author's choice to actually write out the dialect phonetically was, in my opinion, extremely annoying and made the book much harder to get through.
June 28, 2022
Dated
March 4, 2017
Enjoyably read
I enjoyed this book. It has a lot of humor not just sex with a hot highlander. Waiting for next book.
I enjoyed this book. It has a lot of humor not just sex with a hot highlander. Waiting for next book.
June 10, 2012
In 1603, Gabrielle Carelton was a lady in Queen Elizabeth's court for 6 years. Black of hair, green of eye, heavy of weight, Gabrielle sees herself as a plain looking, plump woman. While she will devoted to her queen and her country, she is not afraid of speaking her mind when occasions warrant it. After the Queen compares her to a stuffed goose, she suffers even more from insecurities about herself.
When Queen Elizabeth calls a meeting with Gabrielle to take place in the early morning, Gabby is worried, very worried. Queen Elizabeth is not an early riser so Gabby knows that it can't be good news. When Queen Elizabeth tells Gabby that she is to wed a Scotsman, she is shocked, when she discovers the Scotsman is Colin Douglas of the Douglas clan, she is horrified! Queen Elizabeth will not take no for an answer and Gabby, who has always been loyal to the Queen, knows that she will have to accept what she has been ordered to do.
The Maxwell clan and the Douglas clan have been enemies for decades. Gabrielle with her small drop of Maxwell blood is perfect for the Queen's plan. Not only will it hopefully settle some of the strife on the borderlands by uniting the 2 clans, but it also rids the Queen of Gabby, who rumor has it, has been friendly with Robert Devereaux whom the Queen looks on as her special suitor. The only way Gabby can get out of this is if she goes against the Queen and that she will not do.
On the border, Colin Douglas' twin Connor, known far and wide as The Black Douglas, devises a plan that will get him payback against his twin, and help to settle some of the unrest on the border. His plan includes kidnapping and then marrying Gabby, begetting a son, and having her die (he believes that all Englishwomen are frail, helpless beings).
When a feverish and sick Gabby first lays eyes on Connor, she is instantly attracted. Little does she know, but Connor also sees something in her, something he wasn't expecting. Gabby is slowly getting better and getting to know Connor. Things heat up when a kidnapping is carried out in Connor's castle. Will he go after the kidnappers? What will happen to Gabby when she finally meets Colin? And if the rumor is true and the Queen is dead, is Gabby still obligated to marry?
Great scenes, good descriptions, and fun characters all make for an entertaining read. I enjoyed the historical facts that were incorporated into the story. A great historical romance novel.
October 24, 2011
I was asked to read/review this book and since Historical Romance is one of my favorite generes to read besides Paranormal, I jumped at the chance. I have to say the cover art for the book is absolutely beautiful, makes you want to dive right into the story.
I have to say this is a Historical Romance at it's finest, It has everything you want in a Historical Romance, I love reading from the 16th Century England/Scotland. Gabrielle Carelton is on her way to meet Collin Douglas her betrothed, but, on her journey she is kidnapped by a man named Black Douglas. Black Douglas has a reputation of being one of the most fierce men with our mercy for anyone, but, he just happens to also be Collin Douglas's twin brother.
I am not going to spill all the details and if I go to deep I will spoil it for you and I don't want to do that, but I will say this is an absolute MUST READ, if you like Historical Romance then you will love this book, I love the two main characters Rebecca has built, very strong, strong willed characters, Gabrielle is a "sturdy" woman who has lots of self doubts and more worries than a lady should have, Collin, so different from his brother. In the beginning of the story of two people that were strangers, enemies in fact, only to be into a love story you will think about long after this book is done.
I myself being not a perfectly shaped lady, truly loved this story more as Gabrielle was described the same, and to be recognized for her inner beauty is more than what's on the outside, when a story is written like this I feel it hits more readers as it makes the character more real, more identifiable with. It has everything you want in a book, romance, action packed, the right amount of danger, twits and turns that made me hold my breath and it was full of humour, just the right amount of everything that makes a good book great.
I hope you will all pick up your copy and enjoy it as much as I did. Enjoy!!!!
I have to say this is a Historical Romance at it's finest, It has everything you want in a Historical Romance, I love reading from the 16th Century England/Scotland. Gabrielle Carelton is on her way to meet Collin Douglas her betrothed, but, on her journey she is kidnapped by a man named Black Douglas. Black Douglas has a reputation of being one of the most fierce men with our mercy for anyone, but, he just happens to also be Collin Douglas's twin brother.
I am not going to spill all the details and if I go to deep I will spoil it for you and I don't want to do that, but I will say this is an absolute MUST READ, if you like Historical Romance then you will love this book, I love the two main characters Rebecca has built, very strong, strong willed characters, Gabrielle is a "sturdy" woman who has lots of self doubts and more worries than a lady should have, Collin, so different from his brother. In the beginning of the story of two people that were strangers, enemies in fact, only to be into a love story you will think about long after this book is done.
I myself being not a perfectly shaped lady, truly loved this story more as Gabrielle was described the same, and to be recognized for her inner beauty is more than what's on the outside, when a story is written like this I feel it hits more readers as it makes the character more real, more identifiable with. It has everything you want in a book, romance, action packed, the right amount of danger, twits and turns that made me hold my breath and it was full of humour, just the right amount of everything that makes a good book great.
I hope you will all pick up your copy and enjoy it as much as I did. Enjoy!!!!
October 25, 2011
Ok – I have to admit, the picture perfect specimen on the cover captured my attention before anything. Did you look?! Well, go back and LOOK!
I also have a predisposed fascination with Scotland as my ancestors hail from the great country of Scotland. I love the brogue. I love the bagpipes. I love the kilts. I would someday like to visit Scotland, and I would like one of those men (from the cover).
Perfect Strangers captured the love between Gabrielle Carleton and Connor Douglas magnificently. What sets this book apart from previous books I’ve read is that the author did not make Gabrielle a picture perfect woman. Gabby is a complex young woman who as part of Queen Elizabeth’s court, was ridiculed, and judged based on her lack of outer beauty. The “Black Douglas’” piercing gray eyes saw passed the outer shell to the beautiful woman beneath (and mine will too).
The author not only captured the essence of Gabby but the complex humanity of the highland clans and their way of life in 16th century Scotland and England.
Perfect Strangers is a story of a young woman, sent by her queen, to marry in hopes of ending the border feuds. Her betrothed’s twin brother, the notorious Black Douglas, whom ballads of his fierceness have been written and sung, kidnaps her.
Soon after arriving at his castle, a battle breaks out and Connor’s old aunt is kidnapped. In her goodness and innocence, Gabrielle sets off to rescue her. Before the night has time to set, Connor comes upon her camp, and after a night of giving in to the passion that has been threatening to consume them, Gabby and Connor, are captured by a neighboring clan.
Through the twists and turns of a great story, love trumps all. I will definitely be reading more from Rebecca Sinclair. The characters are well written and developed. The Scottish dialogue spoke of authenticity. The story draws the reader in and leaves you wanting more at the end.
Well done Ms. Sinclair!
I also have a predisposed fascination with Scotland as my ancestors hail from the great country of Scotland. I love the brogue. I love the bagpipes. I love the kilts. I would someday like to visit Scotland, and I would like one of those men (from the cover).
Perfect Strangers captured the love between Gabrielle Carleton and Connor Douglas magnificently. What sets this book apart from previous books I’ve read is that the author did not make Gabrielle a picture perfect woman. Gabby is a complex young woman who as part of Queen Elizabeth’s court, was ridiculed, and judged based on her lack of outer beauty. The “Black Douglas’” piercing gray eyes saw passed the outer shell to the beautiful woman beneath (and mine will too).
The author not only captured the essence of Gabby but the complex humanity of the highland clans and their way of life in 16th century Scotland and England.
Perfect Strangers is a story of a young woman, sent by her queen, to marry in hopes of ending the border feuds. Her betrothed’s twin brother, the notorious Black Douglas, whom ballads of his fierceness have been written and sung, kidnaps her.
Soon after arriving at his castle, a battle breaks out and Connor’s old aunt is kidnapped. In her goodness and innocence, Gabrielle sets off to rescue her. Before the night has time to set, Connor comes upon her camp, and after a night of giving in to the passion that has been threatening to consume them, Gabby and Connor, are captured by a neighboring clan.
Through the twists and turns of a great story, love trumps all. I will definitely be reading more from Rebecca Sinclair. The characters are well written and developed. The Scottish dialogue spoke of authenticity. The story draws the reader in and leaves you wanting more at the end.
Well done Ms. Sinclair!
September 1, 2015
I really enjoyed this book, and yet thinking back on what I've read I can't say the story was intricate of even had a lot going on. The appeal was the writing and knowing the major plot line was that Gabrielle was being sent to wed Colin Douglas by Elizabeth I. Only she doesn't make it to her betrothed but instead is whisked away by his brother's men. And his brother is none other than The Black Douglas.
What I really liked is the book felt very intimate. You are along for the ride when Gabrielle is being sent off to marry someone she'd rather not. And the best part is Gabrielle isn't described as some skinny, blonde woman with perfectly shimmering blue eyes. Nope. She's sturdy and dark haired and not normally considered a beauty but she really is. See beauty isn't always about outward appearance. Sometimes your appearance is enhanced by who you are as a person.
Having said that Conner (The Black Douglas) is pleased Gabrielle, his stolen bride, isn't a stick figure. He seems taken with her right away though he'd never admit it. And as Gabrielle speaks her mind and interacts with his family, his attraction to her flames out of control.
Conner and Gabrielle's quick passion for one another is entrancing and another reason why I enjoyed the story.
There were a few drawback. First, I hate when smart women make epically stupid mistakes and Gabrielle does by riding out to save someone she barely knows, in a country she doesn't know, and with skills she doesn't have.
Second, Conner is so wrapped up in Gabrielle and making love to her he is taken unaware. This wouldn't be so bad if Conner hadn't ridden out to find Gabrielle because of the danger in the area. So now it is okay to strip bare and make love. I think not.
Third, while the story was entertaining, there also seemed to be a lack of story and I did feel there was more to be told as I reached the end.
Overall entertaining!
What I really liked is the book felt very intimate. You are along for the ride when Gabrielle is being sent off to marry someone she'd rather not. And the best part is Gabrielle isn't described as some skinny, blonde woman with perfectly shimmering blue eyes. Nope. She's sturdy and dark haired and not normally considered a beauty but she really is. See beauty isn't always about outward appearance. Sometimes your appearance is enhanced by who you are as a person.
Having said that Conner (The Black Douglas) is pleased Gabrielle, his stolen bride, isn't a stick figure. He seems taken with her right away though he'd never admit it. And as Gabrielle speaks her mind and interacts with his family, his attraction to her flames out of control.
Conner and Gabrielle's quick passion for one another is entrancing and another reason why I enjoyed the story.
There were a few drawback. First, I hate when smart women make epically stupid mistakes and Gabrielle does by riding out to save someone she barely knows, in a country she doesn't know, and with skills she doesn't have.
Second, Conner is so wrapped up in Gabrielle and making love to her he is taken unaware. This wouldn't be so bad if Conner hadn't ridden out to find Gabrielle because of the danger in the area. So now it is okay to strip bare and make love. I think not.
Third, while the story was entertaining, there also seemed to be a lack of story and I did feel there was more to be told as I reached the end.
Overall entertaining!
February 17, 2012
PERFECT STRANGERS by Rebecca Sinclair is an exciting re-release historical romance set in 16th century England and Scotland, exact date 1603. It is the love story of Connor Douglas,"The Black Douglas" and Gabrielle Carelton. Gabrielle, is one of Queen Elizabeth's ladies-in-waiting and the most unlikely to find a match. Gabrielle is a relation to the Maxwell clan,which has had a feud with the Douglas clad for decades. Gabrielle's match will stop a century old feud and add an alliance between Scotland and England. However, she is instructed by the Queen to marry Colin Douglas, the Scottish twin brother of Connor Douglas. But Connor has her kidnapped and taken to his keep. Gabrielle,is not what Connor expected. She is not a tiny,silly lady,but a strong-will,determined,unconventional, complex lady,who has been judged,and ridiculed at Court for her size. Together, Connor and Gabrielle will embark on an adventure,where Gabrielle is kidnapped again,Connor is imprisoned in a dungeon,and they meet their desires for each other. "Perfect Strangers" is a delightful Scottish romance. The plot is fast paced,emotional,with witty authentic dialogue,valor,romance,sweet sensuality and passion. I love the way this author made the heroine,Gabrielle,a woman with both inner and outer beauty,although,some thought she was not a beauty. And the way the hero,Connor,loved Gabrielle for both her inner and outer beauty,to him she was beautiful and he loved her strength. "Perfect Strangers"is a must for anyone who enjoys Scottish adventure,historical romance,and love. Reviewed for an honest review from the author. Details can be found at ePublishing Works!,the author's website, and My Book Addiction and More/My Book Addiction Reviews.
RATING: 5
HEAT RATING: MILD
REVIEWED BY: AprilR,My Book Addiction and More/My Book Addition Reviews
RATING: 5
HEAT RATING: MILD
REVIEWED BY: AprilR,My Book Addiction and More/My Book Addition Reviews
February 17, 2014
Reviewed by Deana
Book provided by the author for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Reading historical romance is new for me. I think I made the right choice in reading Rebecca Sinclair’s Perfect Strangers, which is a delightful Scottish romance (this was a first for me). Perfect Strangers has a well written plot, the characters are well written and developed authentic and witty dialogue and full of emotions that pulled me from the beginning. The book is written with Scottish burr, it took a few chapters to get used to, but once I did it just adds that much more to the story.
I enjoy that our lead lady, Gabrielle, was not the beauty of the day. She was your average girl. She had self-esteem issues as most of us do. We see Gabrielle, learn what inner beauty is and how to learn to like herself and find love in the process.
Connor our lead man, has issues of his own. He is known for his fierceness and ability to get what he wants to matter what. What other people don’t see is the soft, caring, compassionate man beneath the hard exterior. Gabriella sees that and in the process sees him for what he truly is.
I really enjoyed watching their relationship develop and felt it was very believable. It starts off as lusty and quickly moves towards something much deeper filled with passion and emotions. Through the twists and turns of this great story, love over comes all. I will definitely be reading more from Rebecca Sinclair.
Book provided by the author for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Reading historical romance is new for me. I think I made the right choice in reading Rebecca Sinclair’s Perfect Strangers, which is a delightful Scottish romance (this was a first for me). Perfect Strangers has a well written plot, the characters are well written and developed authentic and witty dialogue and full of emotions that pulled me from the beginning. The book is written with Scottish burr, it took a few chapters to get used to, but once I did it just adds that much more to the story.
I enjoy that our lead lady, Gabrielle, was not the beauty of the day. She was your average girl. She had self-esteem issues as most of us do. We see Gabrielle, learn what inner beauty is and how to learn to like herself and find love in the process.
Connor our lead man, has issues of his own. He is known for his fierceness and ability to get what he wants to matter what. What other people don’t see is the soft, caring, compassionate man beneath the hard exterior. Gabriella sees that and in the process sees him for what he truly is.
I really enjoyed watching their relationship develop and felt it was very believable. It starts off as lusty and quickly moves towards something much deeper filled with passion and emotions. Through the twists and turns of this great story, love over comes all. I will definitely be reading more from Rebecca Sinclair.
January 10, 2013
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Perfect Strangers by Rebecca Sinclair is the tale of love between a Scottish laird and one of the queen’s maids. My favourite part of the story is that Rebecca made Gabrielle a stout and sturdy woman whose self image has been damaged by cutting remarks made by Queen Elisabeth. Gabrielle travels on orders from the queen to be betrothed to Colin Douglas when she is kidnapped by his brother, Connor, who plans to marry her instead. Connor had no plans on falling in love with the woman, but does so in spite of himself. What follows is a romantic adventure in the Scottish landscape.
Throughout the novel, Gabrielle’s poor self image makes her doubt Connor’s affections. Connor’s kindness and attentiveness to her make him very likeable. At the very end, I thought she protested a bit too much about whether he loved her, but this only happened at one point in the story.
The scenes between Connor and Gabrielle are steaming hot, and the story was engaging, entertaining, and lots of fun to read.
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January 28, 2012
Queen Elizabeth of England has asked Gabrielle to marry the Scotsman, Colin Douglas, in order to help end an on going feud. Once Gabrielle has accepted her fate, she decides to just be glad she is not marring Colin's twin brother, Conner Douglas, aka the Black Douglas.
On the other side of things, Conner has decided to steal his brother's bride. Mostly to get back at Colin for the past, but also in effort to make peace with the warring Maxwell clan and benefit with an heir in the process.
This book had adventure, kidnapping, love and love scenes. Gabrielle had low self-esteem and did not view herself very highly, mostly due to the Queen's put downs. I liked how Connor builds her up and once he gets to know her, he becomes attracted to her for her kindness and passion. Ella is the stubborn, determined cousin and I wish the book would have had more about how her life continues in the closing but maybe we will see a book about her. I also felt the second love scene dragged on and I found myself skimming parts of it. Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book and I plan to read more books by Rebecca Sinclair. I give this book 4 of 5 stars!
On the other side of things, Conner has decided to steal his brother's bride. Mostly to get back at Colin for the past, but also in effort to make peace with the warring Maxwell clan and benefit with an heir in the process.
This book had adventure, kidnapping, love and love scenes. Gabrielle had low self-esteem and did not view herself very highly, mostly due to the Queen's put downs. I liked how Connor builds her up and once he gets to know her, he becomes attracted to her for her kindness and passion. Ella is the stubborn, determined cousin and I wish the book would have had more about how her life continues in the closing but maybe we will see a book about her. I also felt the second love scene dragged on and I found myself skimming parts of it. Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book and I plan to read more books by Rebecca Sinclair. I give this book 4 of 5 stars!
June 27, 2012
RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:
All I have to say is, WOW! This book blurb doesn’t do this book justice. It seems that the author has published this story in 1996, and did some ‘ironing’ of it and re-published it last year. I’ve never had the pleasure to read this author before, but that will certainly change right now.
This was such a warm and touching story. It’s so much more than just romance. It’s a painting of a time long gone, yet brought to life in such vivid detail. I was made to want to belong to Elizabeth’s court only because I wanted to shelter our heroine from the Queen, who only knew how to humiliate her.
Oh, and then she meets the hero, and what a hero he turns out to be! He is one alpha male all the way, and the only man that would make sure she would become a strong woman, and his equal.
This is very, very well written and paced to perfection, character driven, and filled with humor and romance in equal measures.
I highly recommend it.
Melanie
All I have to say is, WOW! This book blurb doesn’t do this book justice. It seems that the author has published this story in 1996, and did some ‘ironing’ of it and re-published it last year. I’ve never had the pleasure to read this author before, but that will certainly change right now.
This was such a warm and touching story. It’s so much more than just romance. It’s a painting of a time long gone, yet brought to life in such vivid detail. I was made to want to belong to Elizabeth’s court only because I wanted to shelter our heroine from the Queen, who only knew how to humiliate her.
Oh, and then she meets the hero, and what a hero he turns out to be! He is one alpha male all the way, and the only man that would make sure she would become a strong woman, and his equal.
This is very, very well written and paced to perfection, character driven, and filled with humor and romance in equal measures.
I highly recommend it.
Melanie
February 28, 2025
I was lured in by a Scot. Seriously. That should be on a bumper sticker.
Gabrielle gets shipped off to the Highlands to marry a Douglas. Trouble is, she ends up at the keep of the WRONG Douglas. He's tall, he's muscular. And he's called THE BLACK DOUGLAS. (That's got to mean something, right? Something...dastardly.) Except he's hot. And really, he's just misunderstood.
I wanted to love this book. Hot guy in a kilt -- hello!!! Gabrielle was nothing but a bunch of tropes stuck together. She's plain and she's hefty. He laughs at her. She hates him. Except that after she gets sick, he suddenly finds himself lusting after her.
The have sex in the mud.
Seriously.
Okay, there's some moss in there, too. You know, to act as a cushion. And then they sleep in the wet, cold, rainy Highlands. Naked. In his plaid.
Hello, pneumonia.
Anyway, I'll pass.
Gabrielle gets shipped off to the Highlands to marry a Douglas. Trouble is, she ends up at the keep of the WRONG Douglas. He's tall, he's muscular. And he's called THE BLACK DOUGLAS. (That's got to mean something, right? Something...dastardly.) Except he's hot. And really, he's just misunderstood.
I wanted to love this book. Hot guy in a kilt -- hello!!! Gabrielle was nothing but a bunch of tropes stuck together. She's plain and she's hefty. He laughs at her. She hates him. Except that after she gets sick, he suddenly finds himself lusting after her.
The have sex in the mud.
Seriously.
Okay, there's some moss in there, too. You know, to act as a cushion. And then they sleep in the wet, cold, rainy Highlands. Naked. In his plaid.
Hello, pneumonia.
Anyway, I'll pass.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2012
This story completely took me by surprise as it was authentic, unpredictable, and cute. Gabrielle must marry against her wishes, but there is a mix up and she ends up with the wrong brother. There are lots of twists and turns so any additional plot synopsis would give the fun away. I thought the romance was sweet. the plot engaging, and the characters fun. I liked how all the characters were different and had a more complex side than what was initially introduced to the reader. I was slightly irritated at the constant reminders that Gabrielle was overweight and not very pretty. I got it but I didn't need it on every page. I understood that it played into her self-esteem but really, I just wanted to focus on the romance.
May 9, 2012
So, I've tried to read this book twice now. As much as I hate to admit it, I just can't get into it. It's very well written and I like the characters, but for osme reason, I just can't seem to get more than a couple chapters in.
I hate this because I haven't read far enough for the book to even begin to kick off. I feel like I'm not really giving it the chance that it properly deserves.
So in fairness, I've decided that in the future, I will come back to this book and give it another shot. Hopefully then I can get into it more.
Perfect Strangers, I apologize. I promise to try and read you again someday.
I hate this because I haven't read far enough for the book to even begin to kick off. I feel like I'm not really giving it the chance that it properly deserves.
So in fairness, I've decided that in the future, I will come back to this book and give it another shot. Hopefully then I can get into it more.
Perfect Strangers, I apologize. I promise to try and read you again someday.
January 10, 2014
I liked this book quite a bit. The story is a little different than many romance novels. Gabrielle isn't devastatingly beautiful and is a little over weight. She doesn't want to marry Colin, and she really doesn't want to marry his twin brother Conner who kidnaps her.
It was nice to see Gabby and Conner fall in love. I liked her, she didn't always feel so great about herself, but she knew she was worth more than being a brood mare. Good story, not too much sex, I like my stories a little hotter than this one.
It was nice to see Gabby and Conner fall in love. I liked her, she didn't always feel so great about herself, but she knew she was worth more than being a brood mare. Good story, not too much sex, I like my stories a little hotter than this one.
December 6, 2011
What a wonderful Historical romance story, I was hooked the entire time. It was sexy, sweet and very HOT. The characters were very believable, and easy to fall in love with. The storyline was fascinating; with turns that kept you hooked. I felt the story was written so well, that you felt like you were there with the characters through their journey! I would recommend this to anyone who likes a good Historical romance novel.
Rating:5 out of 5 stars
Rating:5 out of 5 stars
September 10, 2012
"You've flipped your kilt!"
I've read hundreds of Highlander books and I have never heard that before! This was a very cute story about the descendant of The Black Douglas (he, too, referred to as such because he was a notorious, fierce Laird) and a plain, plump girl from Queen Elizabeth's court he was forced to marry. I thoroughly enjoyed it. :)
I've read hundreds of Highlander books and I have never heard that before! This was a very cute story about the descendant of The Black Douglas (he, too, referred to as such because he was a notorious, fierce Laird) and a plain, plump girl from Queen Elizabeth's court he was forced to marry. I thoroughly enjoyed it. :)
February 28, 2012
3,5 stars
Read
March 31, 2014DNF
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