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Highland Knights #1
Highland Heat
Perfect for readers of Maya Banks and Monica McCarty, Jennifer Haymore’s seductive new Highland Knights series begins with an electrifying tale of class warfare, fierce loyalties, and forbidden love.
With blood still drying on the front lines at Waterloo, Lady Grace Carrington helps an injured soldier to a British medical tent. Though she believes she’s pulled him to safety, in fact she has put them both in grave danger: Because when his brilliant blue eyes meet hers, the passionate Scottish sergeant kisses her in a way that leaves her breathless and trembling. As the obedient daughter of an earl, Grace shouldn’t be tempted by someone so far below her station. But as a red-blooded woman, she longs for so much more.
As far as Duncan Mackenzie is concerned, getting stabbed in the arm was the best thing that ever happened to him. When he wakes on the battlefield, the sight of Grace’s lovely face sets his soul aflame. As an enlisted man and a farmer’s son, however, pursuing his guardian angel means facing the wrath of London society, not to mention his own superiors in the British Army. Aye, but he’d risk all that and more just to keep her in his arms.
With blood still drying on the front lines at Waterloo, Lady Grace Carrington helps an injured soldier to a British medical tent. Though she believes she’s pulled him to safety, in fact she has put them both in grave danger: Because when his brilliant blue eyes meet hers, the passionate Scottish sergeant kisses her in a way that leaves her breathless and trembling. As the obedient daughter of an earl, Grace shouldn’t be tempted by someone so far below her station. But as a red-blooded woman, she longs for so much more.
As far as Duncan Mackenzie is concerned, getting stabbed in the arm was the best thing that ever happened to him. When he wakes on the battlefield, the sight of Grace’s lovely face sets his soul aflame. As an enlisted man and a farmer’s son, however, pursuing his guardian angel means facing the wrath of London society, not to mention his own superiors in the British Army. Aye, but he’d risk all that and more just to keep her in his arms.
247 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 24, 2015
49 people are currently reading
788 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
October 31, 2015
Release Date, November 24th 2015
Story Rating ~ 4 Stars
Hero Rating ~ 5 Stars
Heroine Rating ~ 5 Stars
Romance Rating ~ 5 Stars
Heat Level ~ 3.50 Stars
Ending ~ 4 Stars
Overall Rating ~ 4.5 Forbidden Love Stars!
Lady Grace Carrington went with her sister to The Waterloo Battlefield in order for her sister to see her husband. While Grace was there, she searched the Battlefield that was littered with dead bodies from the battle that had taken place. She was trying to find men that were still alive so she could help them to get medical attention. This is where she literally fell upon Duncan Mackenzie who happened to have a serious injury to his arm. While waiting on medical attention for Duncan's arm, these two grow closer. The dialogue between them is very easy and as their conversation flows they start to feel attracted to each other. As some time passes the attraction between them only grows more. The thing is, Grace is a Lady, an Earl’s daughter and there is NO WAY they could possibly have a future seeing that Duncan is a son of a Scottish sheep farmer.
I LOVED both Grace and Duncan. Even though her status was above his, Grace only treated Duncan as an equal. She was kind, tender, caring and brave. Duncan was the perfect hero, strong, protective and very sexy. I loved his brogue and the fact that he did indeed wear a kilt.
There was also a secondary romance added in between Grace's sister Clair and her husband which I also really enjoyed reading about.
I was truly surprised at the amount of heat that oozed off my Kindle while reading this one. I like my books with some good heat and this one did not disappoint me. These two were in fact a PERFECT match!
Near the end there was some good action added in which I was grateful for. I felt it was just what the book needed and without it, the story line just did not have that many exciting moments.
I have to say I’m SO glad I read Highland Heat. I just feel the need to read a really well written historical romance from time to time.
*I received an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
Story Rating ~ 4 Stars
Hero Rating ~ 5 Stars
Heroine Rating ~ 5 Stars
Romance Rating ~ 5 Stars
Heat Level ~ 3.50 Stars
Ending ~ 4 Stars
Overall Rating ~ 4.5 Forbidden Love Stars!
Lady Grace Carrington went with her sister to The Waterloo Battlefield in order for her sister to see her husband. While Grace was there, she searched the Battlefield that was littered with dead bodies from the battle that had taken place. She was trying to find men that were still alive so she could help them to get medical attention. This is where she literally fell upon Duncan Mackenzie who happened to have a serious injury to his arm. While waiting on medical attention for Duncan's arm, these two grow closer. The dialogue between them is very easy and as their conversation flows they start to feel attracted to each other. As some time passes the attraction between them only grows more. The thing is, Grace is a Lady, an Earl’s daughter and there is NO WAY they could possibly have a future seeing that Duncan is a son of a Scottish sheep farmer.
I LOVED both Grace and Duncan. Even though her status was above his, Grace only treated Duncan as an equal. She was kind, tender, caring and brave. Duncan was the perfect hero, strong, protective and very sexy. I loved his brogue and the fact that he did indeed wear a kilt.
There was also a secondary romance added in between Grace's sister Clair and her husband which I also really enjoyed reading about.
I was truly surprised at the amount of heat that oozed off my Kindle while reading this one. I like my books with some good heat and this one did not disappoint me. These two were in fact a PERFECT match!
Near the end there was some good action added in which I was grateful for. I felt it was just what the book needed and without it, the story line just did not have that many exciting moments.
I have to say I’m SO glad I read Highland Heat. I just feel the need to read a really well written historical romance from time to time.
*I received an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
September 13, 2015
4.5 Stars
So this is my first book from this author and I have to say I'm positively surprised at how much I enjoyed it.
I can't wait to read the others in these series.
I absolutely loved Duncan! A must read for sure!
So this is my first book from this author and I have to say I'm positively surprised at how much I enjoyed it.
I can't wait to read the others in these series.
I absolutely loved Duncan! A must read for sure!
June 2, 2016
The first book is definitely a stronger entry than this book. At least for me.
For several reasons:
1. Haymore's style is....well, simple. There aren't a lot twists and turns, the sentiments moderate with occasional peaks. The writing is plain, in a good way, in the sense that you don't need to read the sentence three times to truly appreciate the eloquence. What you read is what you get. I finished the book in less than 3 hours. But it isn't poor writing. It just reads simply but it does read well.
2. Because of the "plain" writing, I think it's more important to have strong leads, whose characters could carry the story. In the first book, Robert and Claire are great characters. They had a real life and relationship problem to work through and their characters were more alive because of that. The "plainness" was already there, but the story was shorter so somehow the story didn't seem so shallow. In this book, Grace and Duncan's only problem was that they were from different social classes. But both were more or less willing to overlook that, with a small dose of reluctance. So the conflict was not a relationship problem. There was no need to struggle. Just accept it or move on. And the book is longer than the first one, which I think should be exactly the opposite. Robert and Claire are much stronger leads than Duncan and Grace.
3. Some ideas in this book sound rather juvenile. Such as "The theory of Scots" (all Scotsmen are great lovers and Englishmen all have no idea about how to please a lady. Well, Grace and Claire, has either of you read anything by Elizabeth Hoyt!?) Or the conversations, sometimes it just sounds like high school kids talking. All that oh I love you and cannot get enough of you. It made me feel so old because I was rolling my eyes reading those paragraphs! lol
I do think the premise of the series interesting. But I hope the later books develop in depth because so far the series seems to be going lighter, which in itself is fine. But I have a gnawing feeling that the story is trying to play adult while being a child, if that metaphor makes sense at all. Stay light and be funny, or be heavy and explore the human condition. A light book pretending to be serious is not attractive.
For several reasons:
1. Haymore's style is....well, simple. There aren't a lot twists and turns, the sentiments moderate with occasional peaks. The writing is plain, in a good way, in the sense that you don't need to read the sentence three times to truly appreciate the eloquence. What you read is what you get. I finished the book in less than 3 hours. But it isn't poor writing. It just reads simply but it does read well.
2. Because of the "plain" writing, I think it's more important to have strong leads, whose characters could carry the story. In the first book, Robert and Claire are great characters. They had a real life and relationship problem to work through and their characters were more alive because of that. The "plainness" was already there, but the story was shorter so somehow the story didn't seem so shallow. In this book, Grace and Duncan's only problem was that they were from different social classes. But both were more or less willing to overlook that, with a small dose of reluctance. So the conflict was not a relationship problem. There was no need to struggle. Just accept it or move on. And the book is longer than the first one, which I think should be exactly the opposite. Robert and Claire are much stronger leads than Duncan and Grace.
3. Some ideas in this book sound rather juvenile. Such as "The theory of Scots" (all Scotsmen are great lovers and Englishmen all have no idea about how to please a lady. Well, Grace and Claire, has either of you read anything by Elizabeth Hoyt!?) Or the conversations, sometimes it just sounds like high school kids talking. All that oh I love you and cannot get enough of you. It made me feel so old because I was rolling my eyes reading those paragraphs! lol
I do think the premise of the series interesting. But I hope the later books develop in depth because so far the series seems to be going lighter, which in itself is fine. But I have a gnawing feeling that the story is trying to play adult while being a child, if that metaphor makes sense at all. Stay light and be funny, or be heavy and explore the human condition. A light book pretending to be serious is not attractive.
April 5, 2023
Love across the class divide in Regency times
Lady Grace Carrington picked her way across the battlefield looking for any survivors. Waterloo and all its imagined gory descriptions! A name to conjure nightmares!
That’s where she finds Scotsman Sergeant Duncan Scott a sheep farmer from the highlands. A world away from home, and centuries away from a woman like Grace.
And yet when Duncan and Grace meet there will be no going back. Soulmates!
Duncan is assigned to be part of a task force to investigate anti monarch organizations back in England with Grace’s brother-in-law Major Sir Robert Campbell. They are all now officially Highland Knights.
Still, how can these two come together separated as they are by class and lineage?
I found the first couple of chapters piqued my interest. a(Although Heyer’s novels dealing with this time and occasion is still the pinnacle as far as I’m concerned.)
The rest of the story is fine if somewhat superficial, yet there’s no doubt about the rightness for each other that these two star crossed lovers have. I could wish for more story and less bedroom scenes. We see no gathering of information about the group the Knights have been assigned to track, only the ending as it affects Grace and Duncan. I’m somewhat confused about how Duncan’s supposedly involved in the gathering of information, yet to my mind the only gathering he does is Grace.
Nonetheless a fine start to a new series with more of the Knights’ tales to come.
A Victory Editing ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Lady Grace Carrington picked her way across the battlefield looking for any survivors. Waterloo and all its imagined gory descriptions! A name to conjure nightmares!
That’s where she finds Scotsman Sergeant Duncan Scott a sheep farmer from the highlands. A world away from home, and centuries away from a woman like Grace.
And yet when Duncan and Grace meet there will be no going back. Soulmates!
Duncan is assigned to be part of a task force to investigate anti monarch organizations back in England with Grace’s brother-in-law Major Sir Robert Campbell. They are all now officially Highland Knights.
Still, how can these two come together separated as they are by class and lineage?
I found the first couple of chapters piqued my interest. a(Although Heyer’s novels dealing with this time and occasion is still the pinnacle as far as I’m concerned.)
The rest of the story is fine if somewhat superficial, yet there’s no doubt about the rightness for each other that these two star crossed lovers have. I could wish for more story and less bedroom scenes. We see no gathering of information about the group the Knights have been assigned to track, only the ending as it affects Grace and Duncan. I’m somewhat confused about how Duncan’s supposedly involved in the gathering of information, yet to my mind the only gathering he does is Grace.
Nonetheless a fine start to a new series with more of the Knights’ tales to come.
A Victory Editing ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
April 9, 2023
The Spinster and Mr. Scott is book one in Jennifer Haymore’s new regency period series, The Highland Knights.
Book one opens on the battelefield the day following the battle at Waterloo, where Lady Grace Carrington is searching for survivors and finds Sergeant Duncan Scott amongst the wounded. Although they are strongly attracted to each other over the coming days they both know that any relationship between them is doomed to failure due to their stations in life.
Soon, Duncan is rewarded for his service by being asked to become part of the newly formed Highland Knights, a group whose goal it will be to root out traitors to England and bring them to justice. With this turn of fortune, Duncan and Grace are brought into each other's company often, because one of the other members of the Highland Knights is Grace's brother in law.
Full of forbidden romance, intrigue, and danger, I found The Spinster and Mr. Scott hard to put down. I'm looking forward to reading more of this series, and this author, in the future.
Thanks to NetGalley and the author for an advanced copy of this book for review.
Book one opens on the battelefield the day following the battle at Waterloo, where Lady Grace Carrington is searching for survivors and finds Sergeant Duncan Scott amongst the wounded. Although they are strongly attracted to each other over the coming days they both know that any relationship between them is doomed to failure due to their stations in life.
Soon, Duncan is rewarded for his service by being asked to become part of the newly formed Highland Knights, a group whose goal it will be to root out traitors to England and bring them to justice. With this turn of fortune, Duncan and Grace are brought into each other's company often, because one of the other members of the Highland Knights is Grace's brother in law.
Full of forbidden romance, intrigue, and danger, I found The Spinster and Mr. Scott hard to put down. I'm looking forward to reading more of this series, and this author, in the future.
Thanks to NetGalley and the author for an advanced copy of this book for review.
September 9, 2015
4.5
Netgalley for honest review
First time reading this author and will be reading more of her books for sure.
This was an all around enjoyable read. I found this hit all the marks. Our heroine, Lady Grace is a strong, controlled young women who's always done what was correct and proper. Our hero Duncan is a Scottish soldier in the British army. Duncan is strong, sweet and swoon worthy.
We open on the battlefield of Waterloo as Grace is looking to help the wounded. She finds Duncan and so their story begins.
Grace and Duncan form a friendship/relationship. They're attracted to each other immediately (yes insta lust/love). Grace's brother-in-law is Duncan's Major. Duncan as well as a group of other soldiers are asked to guard her and her sister back to London. From this point we have a plot forming of an elite group of chosen men, the Highland Knights, they are asked to protect the crown and the interest at home. Duncan becomes part of that elite group. Grace and Duncan navigate and work through their difference of class in society and their love for each other.
I so enjoyed this romance.Reading how these two overcome class differences and how they wrestled through it but yet in the end fought for their love/relationship. These two characters both had depth and were very likable. They had some chemistry and sexual tension that was palpable. Great secondary characters also. This was a well written, great pacing and very engaging read. I highly recommended.
Netgalley for honest review
First time reading this author and will be reading more of her books for sure.
This was an all around enjoyable read. I found this hit all the marks. Our heroine, Lady Grace is a strong, controlled young women who's always done what was correct and proper. Our hero Duncan is a Scottish soldier in the British army. Duncan is strong, sweet and swoon worthy.
We open on the battlefield of Waterloo as Grace is looking to help the wounded. She finds Duncan and so their story begins.
Grace and Duncan form a friendship/relationship. They're attracted to each other immediately (yes insta lust/love). Grace's brother-in-law is Duncan's Major. Duncan as well as a group of other soldiers are asked to guard her and her sister back to London. From this point we have a plot forming of an elite group of chosen men, the Highland Knights, they are asked to protect the crown and the interest at home. Duncan becomes part of that elite group. Grace and Duncan navigate and work through their difference of class in society and their love for each other.
I so enjoyed this romance.Reading how these two overcome class differences and how they wrestled through it but yet in the end fought for their love/relationship. These two characters both had depth and were very likable. They had some chemistry and sexual tension that was palpable. Great secondary characters also. This was a well written, great pacing and very engaging read. I highly recommended.
June 18, 2016
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Summary
Lady Grace Carrington, is in France to be her sister's companion while she tries to reconcile with her husband. Grace after a big battle goes out in search of British soldiers who are alive and need aid. She stumbles across Duncan Mackenzie, a highlander fighting the French. Sparks fly between them, and there is a instant chemistry they feel for each other. But once Duncan is recovered, they travel with the Major, back to England and to receive his orders. Grace and Duncan know that there can never be a relationship between them. Grace is a daughter of a titled lord, and Duncan is a mere Scot's farmers son, serving in the military. Both feel a connection to each other they crave to have, but know its impossible. But soon Duncan and Grace end up interacting with each other, rekindling what they feel for each other, and soon they will have to make a choice: if their love is worth the sacrifice to be together?
The Hero
Duncan Mackenzie is a man who is loyal and true to what he believes in. He is a warrior and a Scot and is dedicated to fighting for the crown if need be. Duncan even though he is close to his family, hasn't seen his parents or his lovely six sisters for a few years and he craves his Scottish homeland. But his duties take precedence. When he meets the lovely Grace, he knows he can never be good enough for her but loves her despite their class differences. What I admired about Duncan is how he embraced life to the fullest. He is loyal to his men and to the Carrington family, and the vows he makes. But he also likes to live life in the moment, and not waste energy on circumstances he can't change.
The Heroine
Grace Carrington, is a woman that has always done her duty and did what was necessary. Even though her father is strict, she does what she can to prove herself to him. Grace is a loyal sister, and I loved how true she is to Claire and helping her when she can. Grace has rarely acted on her inner emotions until she meets Duncan. We see her character open up to her needs and desires, and fighting for what is right for her and not what others expect. I truly liked Grace, and she seemed to be a good match for Duncan. She stretches herself and learns certain aspects of herself that she has never experienced. I grew to respect her quite a bit especially when she learns to fight for her own happiness.
Plot and Story Line
Highland Heat was a fun and satisfying read and I had a good time with this pair!! I am glad that I had read the first book since they go hand in hand. They take place around the same time, so I do recommend reading the first book first, it will make more sense. I can never get enough of Jennifer Haymore, and she does great with writing in this era, I did enjoy the forbidden romance theme the author used. I don't read them too often, so its a real delight to see a couple fight the circumstances to find a way to be together. I loved their class differences, and it worked out in a way I wasn't really expecting, I knew that they would find a way but boy Haymore took me on a ride of adventure before we got there. At the beginning of the story, we see some powerful chemistry and what a first kiss!!! Whew, that really blew me away and I easily got caught up in the moment where these two are concerned. We see once they return to England, that they learn how to fight against what is expected of them and embrace what they have in a almost freeing way. The conflict that they face was just the right amount, not too powerful for the story but not too light either. We also see more of the Highland Knights and I can't wait to read more of these sexy Scots!!!
The Cover
What a delightful cover...I really love the pose. The upside down effect is quite stimulating!! And man look at all that muscle...YUM!!
Overall View
Highland Heat is a powerful romance about defeating the odds and living in the moment!!! Its about passion, zeal and being true to yourself.
Click On Cover For Buy Link To Amazon
[foogallery id="22161"]
Summary
Lady Grace Carrington, is in France to be her sister's companion while she tries to reconcile with her husband. Grace after a big battle goes out in search of British soldiers who are alive and need aid. She stumbles across Duncan Mackenzie, a highlander fighting the French. Sparks fly between them, and there is a instant chemistry they feel for each other. But once Duncan is recovered, they travel with the Major, back to England and to receive his orders. Grace and Duncan know that there can never be a relationship between them. Grace is a daughter of a titled lord, and Duncan is a mere Scot's farmers son, serving in the military. Both feel a connection to each other they crave to have, but know its impossible. But soon Duncan and Grace end up interacting with each other, rekindling what they feel for each other, and soon they will have to make a choice: if their love is worth the sacrifice to be together?
The Hero
Duncan Mackenzie is a man who is loyal and true to what he believes in. He is a warrior and a Scot and is dedicated to fighting for the crown if need be. Duncan even though he is close to his family, hasn't seen his parents or his lovely six sisters for a few years and he craves his Scottish homeland. But his duties take precedence. When he meets the lovely Grace, he knows he can never be good enough for her but loves her despite their class differences. What I admired about Duncan is how he embraced life to the fullest. He is loyal to his men and to the Carrington family, and the vows he makes. But he also likes to live life in the moment, and not waste energy on circumstances he can't change.
The Heroine
Grace Carrington, is a woman that has always done her duty and did what was necessary. Even though her father is strict, she does what she can to prove herself to him. Grace is a loyal sister, and I loved how true she is to Claire and helping her when she can. Grace has rarely acted on her inner emotions until she meets Duncan. We see her character open up to her needs and desires, and fighting for what is right for her and not what others expect. I truly liked Grace, and she seemed to be a good match for Duncan. She stretches herself and learns certain aspects of herself that she has never experienced. I grew to respect her quite a bit especially when she learns to fight for her own happiness.
Plot and Story Line
Highland Heat was a fun and satisfying read and I had a good time with this pair!! I am glad that I had read the first book since they go hand in hand. They take place around the same time, so I do recommend reading the first book first, it will make more sense. I can never get enough of Jennifer Haymore, and she does great with writing in this era, I did enjoy the forbidden romance theme the author used. I don't read them too often, so its a real delight to see a couple fight the circumstances to find a way to be together. I loved their class differences, and it worked out in a way I wasn't really expecting, I knew that they would find a way but boy Haymore took me on a ride of adventure before we got there. At the beginning of the story, we see some powerful chemistry and what a first kiss!!! Whew, that really blew me away and I easily got caught up in the moment where these two are concerned. We see once they return to England, that they learn how to fight against what is expected of them and embrace what they have in a almost freeing way. The conflict that they face was just the right amount, not too powerful for the story but not too light either. We also see more of the Highland Knights and I can't wait to read more of these sexy Scots!!!
The Cover
What a delightful cover...I really love the pose. The upside down effect is quite stimulating!! And man look at all that muscle...YUM!!
Overall View
Highland Heat is a powerful romance about defeating the odds and living in the moment!!! Its about passion, zeal and being true to yourself.
Click On Cover For Buy Link To Amazon
[foogallery id="22161"]
August 29, 2016
Duncan, a son of a Scottish shepherd falls madly in love with Grace the daughter of an English nobleman. They fall for each other but she is a lady and he is a commoner but in spite of the disapproval of Grace's father and society’s scorn they can’t resist true love.
Super sweet love story. Both hero and heroine are adorable and the love scenes steamy! It was nice reading about a heroine from the upper class being so sweet and down to earth instead of snobby and childish. I didn't like the epilogue because I wanted to see them with a cute baby but other than that flawless book!
Super sweet love story. Both hero and heroine are adorable and the love scenes steamy! It was nice reading about a heroine from the upper class being so sweet and down to earth instead of snobby and childish. I didn't like the epilogue because I wanted to see them with a cute baby but other than that flawless book!
December 21, 2016
This review was originally posted on (un)Conventional Bookviews
Highland Heat had a fantastic balance of hot romance and heady mystery, and it kept me interested and flipping the pages fast!
Not everyone can pull of a historical romance heroine who actually helps out at the battleground of Waterloo, without swooning, and without really caring about propriety. Highland Heat featured such a heroine, and she was fascinating to say the least! Her name, Grace, does say it all as she showed both grace and strength as she dealt with wounded and dead soldiers. And when she discovered Duncan alive, it was all she could do to help him to his feet and to see a doctor. Of course, him being a Scottish sheep-farmer, and she a British noble didn't make their instant attraction go away... It rather intrigued them both that they got along so well, and it irritated Grace that the ton was such a snobbish lot as to not let her be with Duncan if she wanted to.
Because Duncan's superior officer has been chosen for a secret project, and includes Duncan in this, Grace and Duncan travel back to England together, and they spend quite a bit of time getting to know each other better. And their attraction just keeps growing - which makes it impossible for them to stop thinking of each other. Highland Heat also has a great mystery, where the Highland Knights are sent to Manchester to stop a possible revolt against the crown at all costs. And this is another place where Grace needs to be strong and fight with all her might.
Crossing boundaries and opening up communication across classes is something I find interesting in historical romances, and this was well done in Highland Heat. There was a lot of reflection both on the class differences and on the fact that women had very little say in their own lives in that period. Haymore managed to introduce these themes into the story with ease and it brought another layer to the characters and kept me enchanted from start to finish. Written in past tense, third person point of view, the story was evenly paced and and touched both my heart and my mind.
Lord, he was a handsome man. Thick and muscular, with a ruggedly masculine face and russet-brown hair. And those startling light blue-green eyes. He wasn't dark or brooding like her brother-in-law; he was quick to smile, and there was a sort of boyishness to him she found intensely appealing.
Was this how it was done? She knew a kiss consisted of one person's lips pressed against another. She'd seen a few kisses in her life. But this... this was... Oh, God.
Highland Heat had a fantastic balance of hot romance and heady mystery, and it kept me interested and flipping the pages fast!
Not everyone can pull of a historical romance heroine who actually helps out at the battleground of Waterloo, without swooning, and without really caring about propriety. Highland Heat featured such a heroine, and she was fascinating to say the least! Her name, Grace, does say it all as she showed both grace and strength as she dealt with wounded and dead soldiers. And when she discovered Duncan alive, it was all she could do to help him to his feet and to see a doctor. Of course, him being a Scottish sheep-farmer, and she a British noble didn't make their instant attraction go away... It rather intrigued them both that they got along so well, and it irritated Grace that the ton was such a snobbish lot as to not let her be with Duncan if she wanted to.
Because Duncan's superior officer has been chosen for a secret project, and includes Duncan in this, Grace and Duncan travel back to England together, and they spend quite a bit of time getting to know each other better. And their attraction just keeps growing - which makes it impossible for them to stop thinking of each other. Highland Heat also has a great mystery, where the Highland Knights are sent to Manchester to stop a possible revolt against the crown at all costs. And this is another place where Grace needs to be strong and fight with all her might.
Crossing boundaries and opening up communication across classes is something I find interesting in historical romances, and this was well done in Highland Heat. There was a lot of reflection both on the class differences and on the fact that women had very little say in their own lives in that period. Haymore managed to introduce these themes into the story with ease and it brought another layer to the characters and kept me enchanted from start to finish. Written in past tense, third person point of view, the story was evenly paced and and touched both my heart and my mind.
Lord, he was a handsome man. Thick and muscular, with a ruggedly masculine face and russet-brown hair. And those startling light blue-green eyes. He wasn't dark or brooding like her brother-in-law; he was quick to smile, and there was a sort of boyishness to him she found intensely appealing.
Was this how it was done? She knew a kiss consisted of one person's lips pressed against another. She'd seen a few kisses in her life. But this... this was... Oh, God.
December 15, 2015
This book delivers on one of my favorite tropes: a hero so beneath the heroine in social status, they believe they can never make it work. Duncan is a Scottish soldier, injured at Waterloo. Lady Grace is sister-in-law to his superior officer. They are light years apart in station, but from the moment she tended him on the battlefield, they were like moths to a flame.
Grace doesn’t consider herself “too good” for Duncan. She is attracted to him and is fascinated by every word he says and every action he makes. She thinks she’ll never see him again after that first day –that first kiss– but circumstances bring him into her life over and over again. And she couldn’t be happier. Stolen moments grow into heated touches and a real emotional connection… all while reality insists they can never have a future.
Duncan knows society will never accept him in Grace’s life, but he can’t force himself to stay away. I really love the way he sees her, especially when juxtaposed with how Grace sees herself. She thinks she is plain and boring. But in Duncan’s eyes, her blonde hair is spun gold. Her height makes her statuesque. And the shyness she feels around the ton, disappears with him. She is everything to him, and yet everything that is out of his reach.
I enjoyed the forbidden element of the romance. There is such longing and real hopelessness between these two. The sexual tension and physical relationship are hot and believable. I was rooting hard for these two, while truly enjoying their uphill battle to be together. I especially enjoyed watching Grace take control of her own future, when it finally occurs to her that she can.
There is a b-plot going on at the same time involving the relationship between Grace’s sister and her husband, which is covered in the novella, “A Highlander’s Heart.” While the romance between Duncan and Grace works easily as a standalone, the references to Claire and Major Campbell did make me feel the lack a little for having not read their story. You can definitely get the jist, but the holes are obvious. There’s also a bit of action thrown in at the end regarding Duncan’s mission with the Highland Knights, though it felt more like an afterthought or maybe a plot device than something really organic to the story.
All that said, I really enjoyed the book, because I liked the romance at its core. It looks like this series will follow all the different members of Duncan’s band of knights, and based on this story, I would definitely give the next installment a try.
Rating: B
*ARC provided by publisher
Grace doesn’t consider herself “too good” for Duncan. She is attracted to him and is fascinated by every word he says and every action he makes. She thinks she’ll never see him again after that first day –that first kiss– but circumstances bring him into her life over and over again. And she couldn’t be happier. Stolen moments grow into heated touches and a real emotional connection… all while reality insists they can never have a future.
Duncan knows society will never accept him in Grace’s life, but he can’t force himself to stay away. I really love the way he sees her, especially when juxtaposed with how Grace sees herself. She thinks she is plain and boring. But in Duncan’s eyes, her blonde hair is spun gold. Her height makes her statuesque. And the shyness she feels around the ton, disappears with him. She is everything to him, and yet everything that is out of his reach.
I enjoyed the forbidden element of the romance. There is such longing and real hopelessness between these two. The sexual tension and physical relationship are hot and believable. I was rooting hard for these two, while truly enjoying their uphill battle to be together. I especially enjoyed watching Grace take control of her own future, when it finally occurs to her that she can.
There is a b-plot going on at the same time involving the relationship between Grace’s sister and her husband, which is covered in the novella, “A Highlander’s Heart.” While the romance between Duncan and Grace works easily as a standalone, the references to Claire and Major Campbell did make me feel the lack a little for having not read their story. You can definitely get the jist, but the holes are obvious. There’s also a bit of action thrown in at the end regarding Duncan’s mission with the Highland Knights, though it felt more like an afterthought or maybe a plot device than something really organic to the story.
All that said, I really enjoyed the book, because I liked the romance at its core. It looks like this series will follow all the different members of Duncan’s band of knights, and based on this story, I would definitely give the next installment a try.
Rating: B
*ARC provided by publisher
December 1, 2022
My first book by this author and it was okay.
Felt their romance moved a bit too quickly and that they fell for each other too fast. Not believable romance. However, I could see the chemistry between them, and the banter they had.
Hero and heroine were nice people, though a bit shallow as author did not dig deeper into their personalities and made them bond more. Conflict fell flat, as the only obstacle between their romance was their difference in stations. I was disappointed when the hero did not try to fight for their love the first time.
Aside from the fact that this book was nothing special, I will be continuing to read this series to see if the next few books will be better.
Felt their romance moved a bit too quickly and that they fell for each other too fast. Not believable romance. However, I could see the chemistry between them, and the banter they had.
Hero and heroine were nice people, though a bit shallow as author did not dig deeper into their personalities and made them bond more. Conflict fell flat, as the only obstacle between their romance was their difference in stations. I was disappointed when the hero did not try to fight for their love the first time.
Aside from the fact that this book was nothing special, I will be continuing to read this series to see if the next few books will be better.
December 17, 2015
3.5 stars
While I enjoyed this, there was something missing for me. I'm not quite sure what it was though. I liked Grace; she was smart, kind and brave. I also liked Duncan. What more do I need to say except he was a Scottish warrior who wears a kilt? The last 20% was fantastic! Lots of action and maybe that is what I felt was missing here. The beginning was a little on the slow side for me. Will this affect me reading more by Jennifer Haymore? of course not! In fact, I want to go find the first book in this series because it should be taking place at the same time as this and I want to read how Claire and Rob get back together :)
ARC received from the publisher via Netgalley.
While I enjoyed this, there was something missing for me. I'm not quite sure what it was though. I liked Grace; she was smart, kind and brave. I also liked Duncan. What more do I need to say except he was a Scottish warrior who wears a kilt? The last 20% was fantastic! Lots of action and maybe that is what I felt was missing here. The beginning was a little on the slow side for me. Will this affect me reading more by Jennifer Haymore? of course not! In fact, I want to go find the first book in this series because it should be taking place at the same time as this and I want to read how Claire and Rob get back together :)
ARC received from the publisher via Netgalley.
May 12, 2023
When this book came out recently, I was so excited because Jennifer Haymore has not really written anything new for awhile. But after looking over this book, I ended up reaching directly out to her via email, because I had already read Highland Knights Book 1 but it was under a different name, therefore causing the confusion. :) She confirmed that they were the same book but had some additions.
I started reading her in Dec 2018 and devoured 19 of her books in 4 1/2 months until April 2019. I didn't see anything of hers again until Oct 2022 when she wrote The Duke's Rules Of Engagement.
I actually read this book in April 2019 and it was before I started leaving reviews so I don't remember it but I do have on the personal notes I keep: love her books; really good stories; great descriptive sex scenes.
So glad she is writing more again.
I started reading her in Dec 2018 and devoured 19 of her books in 4 1/2 months until April 2019. I didn't see anything of hers again until Oct 2022 when she wrote The Duke's Rules Of Engagement.
I actually read this book in April 2019 and it was before I started leaving reviews so I don't remember it but I do have on the personal notes I keep: love her books; really good stories; great descriptive sex scenes.
So glad she is writing more again.
May 1, 2023
I have always enjoyed Jennifer Haymore regency books, I was super excited when I heard she was writing a new Scottish historical series (Highland Knights) my favorite genre! You can read in series order or as a stand alone book.
June 1815, The Waterloo Battlefield
The kind hearted spinster, Lady Grace Carrington, is the heroine of the story and meets Army Sergeant, Duncan Mackenzie on the last day of the Napoleon war at Waterloo where Bonaparte is finally defeated but probably the bloodiest battle! As she decides to see if she can be aid in a field of corpse she trips over Duncan landing directly in his lap! Duncan the father of a sheep farmer in Scotland and Grace the daughter of a wealthy English Earl. Even what priority demands she ignored and gave her given name and took Duncan under her care. As he had been hurt and unconscious thinking at first Grace was only a dream a dream he didn't want to wake up from!
As the story goes in Duncan and Grace keep getting thrown in situation where they are together and alone. You see as the attraction grow and Grace who has accepted a lifetime of spinsterhood just wants to at least feel love once in her life thought she knows it will be short lived and has to be.a secrets due to her family and her own reputation. Not that she cares much about the ton but didn't want to hurt her family. So what shall she do stay a virgin forever or take caution to the wind and go for it.
Optimist Duncan knows he has nothing to offer Grace but can't seem to resist to her but he is an honorable man. He sees the class difference and knows they can't have a future as much as he wishes it were different. He has the attitude of live each day to the fullest and worry about tomorrow later well that is until his status has changed but still not good enough for an Earl daughter.He has no choice but to break her heart.
Also a side story of Grace’s sister Claire is estranged from her husband who is having marital problems due a past tragedy. Her husband Robert is also Captain to Duncan and brother-in-law to Duncan. He is also the reason for Duncan eventual Status claim.
This was fast paced about the problem and prejudices of class difference is still here today in my opinion. I am sure Prince William didn't have an easy time marrying Kate. Maybe not a ton issue today but you still have to fight paparazzi and other villains. Some other aristocrats like Duke of Windsor, gave up his title for the woman he loved, as he did for the divorced Mrs. Simpson! Although the world finds this very romantic, that these romantic aristocratic men defied all in the name of love, as for the women I imagine this was not easy marrying men from such royalty status.
It also has a mini story of Graces sister Claire and her husband Rob who is also brother-in-law to Grace and also Duncan’s Captain in the Army. The couple have been estranged and due to a past tragedy, you will have read this wonderful book to find the details. Also fans of the series will remember them from book one (A Highland Knight Novel) series in Highlanders Heart.
I really enjoyed this book and look forward to more in the series though this is book two and my first in the series I plan on reading book one and keep following the series. In other words you can read in series order or as a stand alone book. Highly recommend it was a delightful read!
The HIGHLAND KNIGHTS series:
(1) A HIGHLANDER'S HEART (Lady Claire and Major Campbell)
(2) HIGHLAND HEAT (Lady Grace and Mackenzie) TBR 4/24/2015
(3) HIGHLAND AWAKENING (Lady Esme and Macleod) TBR 3/29/2016
(3.5) HER WICKED HIGHLANDER (novella in Captured By A Celtic Warrior Collection (Aila and White) TBR
(4) HIGHLAND TEMPTATION (Lady Emilia and Stirling)
Note....The characters from the Highland Knights appear multiple times throughout the books, but each book can be read as a stand-alone.
***The is an arc I got in exchange for honest review from netgalley.com***
June 1815, The Waterloo Battlefield
The kind hearted spinster, Lady Grace Carrington, is the heroine of the story and meets Army Sergeant, Duncan Mackenzie on the last day of the Napoleon war at Waterloo where Bonaparte is finally defeated but probably the bloodiest battle! As she decides to see if she can be aid in a field of corpse she trips over Duncan landing directly in his lap! Duncan the father of a sheep farmer in Scotland and Grace the daughter of a wealthy English Earl. Even what priority demands she ignored and gave her given name and took Duncan under her care. As he had been hurt and unconscious thinking at first Grace was only a dream a dream he didn't want to wake up from!
As the story goes in Duncan and Grace keep getting thrown in situation where they are together and alone. You see as the attraction grow and Grace who has accepted a lifetime of spinsterhood just wants to at least feel love once in her life thought she knows it will be short lived and has to be.a secrets due to her family and her own reputation. Not that she cares much about the ton but didn't want to hurt her family. So what shall she do stay a virgin forever or take caution to the wind and go for it.
Optimist Duncan knows he has nothing to offer Grace but can't seem to resist to her but he is an honorable man. He sees the class difference and knows they can't have a future as much as he wishes it were different. He has the attitude of live each day to the fullest and worry about tomorrow later well that is until his status has changed but still not good enough for an Earl daughter.He has no choice but to break her heart.
Also a side story of Grace’s sister Claire is estranged from her husband who is having marital problems due a past tragedy. Her husband Robert is also Captain to Duncan and brother-in-law to Duncan. He is also the reason for Duncan eventual Status claim.
This was fast paced about the problem and prejudices of class difference is still here today in my opinion. I am sure Prince William didn't have an easy time marrying Kate. Maybe not a ton issue today but you still have to fight paparazzi and other villains. Some other aristocrats like Duke of Windsor, gave up his title for the woman he loved, as he did for the divorced Mrs. Simpson! Although the world finds this very romantic, that these romantic aristocratic men defied all in the name of love, as for the women I imagine this was not easy marrying men from such royalty status.
It also has a mini story of Graces sister Claire and her husband Rob who is also brother-in-law to Grace and also Duncan’s Captain in the Army. The couple have been estranged and due to a past tragedy, you will have read this wonderful book to find the details. Also fans of the series will remember them from book one (A Highland Knight Novel) series in Highlanders Heart.
I really enjoyed this book and look forward to more in the series though this is book two and my first in the series I plan on reading book one and keep following the series. In other words you can read in series order or as a stand alone book. Highly recommend it was a delightful read!
The HIGHLAND KNIGHTS series:
(1) A HIGHLANDER'S HEART (Lady Claire and Major Campbell)
(2) HIGHLAND HEAT (Lady Grace and Mackenzie) TBR 4/24/2015
(3) HIGHLAND AWAKENING (Lady Esme and Macleod) TBR 3/29/2016
(3.5) HER WICKED HIGHLANDER (novella in Captured By A Celtic Warrior Collection (Aila and White) TBR
(4) HIGHLAND TEMPTATION (Lady Emilia and Stirling)
Note....The characters from the Highland Knights appear multiple times throughout the books, but each book can be read as a stand-alone.
***The is an arc I got in exchange for honest review from netgalley.com***
September 15, 2015
Jennifer Haymore is one of my favorite authors in the historical romance genre and with her latest tale, HIGHLAND HEAT, she cements her position on my list.
When Lady Grace Carrington searches the Waterloo battlefield for survivors of the last fight against Napoleon, she witnesses the devastation first hand. Overwrought with the carnage before her, she almost gives up hope of finding survivors when she literally falls upon a soldier.
Peering into the very much alive, blue eyes of Sergeant Duncan Mackenzie is a revelation to the young woman. Helping the injured Scot to medical treatment was her intent, the kiss that happens between the pair is their desire. Nothing can come of that kiss since Grace is a member of the ton and Duncan is nothing more than a farmer's son, but the desire to have one another doesn't fade.
When Mackenzie is given a new directive as a member of the Highland Knights, his first task is to accompany Lady Grace and her sister back to London with his superior officer, who is also Grace's brother-in-law. Placing Grace and Duncan in close proximity causes their attraction to ignite into a passion that neither could ever have imagined and a love that will endure the class separation that divides them. Will Duncan's new status as a Highland Knight bridge the gap that separates them? Will Grace give up her status and her family for Duncan, or will she set aside their love? For the answers to these questions, you need to grab HIGHLAND HEAT by Jennifer Haymore.
I love the ease with which the talented Jennifer Haymore uses to capture my attention and keep me engrossed in her story. HIGHLAND HEAT is a wonderful tale filled with the desperation of class separation and the hope of change. Duncan Mackenzie is an honorable giant with a heart of gold. His admiration for Grace is evident in his actions and Grace's love for him is as clear as day. The frustration of their class difference is half the journey in this eloquent tale and their discovery that those differences really don't make a difference in how they feel about one another is alluring. I am eager to read more of the HIGHLAND KNIGHTS by Jennifer Haymore.
When Lady Grace Carrington searches the Waterloo battlefield for survivors of the last fight against Napoleon, she witnesses the devastation first hand. Overwrought with the carnage before her, she almost gives up hope of finding survivors when she literally falls upon a soldier.
Peering into the very much alive, blue eyes of Sergeant Duncan Mackenzie is a revelation to the young woman. Helping the injured Scot to medical treatment was her intent, the kiss that happens between the pair is their desire. Nothing can come of that kiss since Grace is a member of the ton and Duncan is nothing more than a farmer's son, but the desire to have one another doesn't fade.
When Mackenzie is given a new directive as a member of the Highland Knights, his first task is to accompany Lady Grace and her sister back to London with his superior officer, who is also Grace's brother-in-law. Placing Grace and Duncan in close proximity causes their attraction to ignite into a passion that neither could ever have imagined and a love that will endure the class separation that divides them. Will Duncan's new status as a Highland Knight bridge the gap that separates them? Will Grace give up her status and her family for Duncan, or will she set aside their love? For the answers to these questions, you need to grab HIGHLAND HEAT by Jennifer Haymore.
I love the ease with which the talented Jennifer Haymore uses to capture my attention and keep me engrossed in her story. HIGHLAND HEAT is a wonderful tale filled with the desperation of class separation and the hope of change. Duncan Mackenzie is an honorable giant with a heart of gold. His admiration for Grace is evident in his actions and Grace's love for him is as clear as day. The frustration of their class difference is half the journey in this eloquent tale and their discovery that those differences really don't make a difference in how they feel about one another is alluring. I am eager to read more of the HIGHLAND KNIGHTS by Jennifer Haymore.
November 22, 2015
This is my first read from author Jennifer Haymore, and I foresee much more from this author on my TBR shelf in the future. This is the second book in the Highland Knights series, and I have not (yet) read the first book, A Highlander's Heart. While there is a lot of character crossover, I did not feel too lost. I think maybe the first two books are happening concurrently, or at least there is some crossover in the timeline.
Lady Grace Carrington is the prim and proper eldest daughter of a stodgy old earl. She has always been the dull one, while her younger sister Claire was a bit of a hoyden. Grace has accompanied Claire to the Battle of Waterloo to help Claire reconcile with her estranged husband. After the battle, Claire is searching the field for injured soldiers when she falls upon the braw and bonny Duncan Mackenzie. Duncan is the son of a Highland sheep farmer, the only son with six younger sisters. Duncan is also every bit the Highland warrior - broad shoulders, tight abs, sculpted pecs, and a kilt flirting with his knees.
I was very much in like with this forbidden love story between the earl's daughter and a commoner. Grace and Duncan were both sweet and steamy together. They had an amazing chemistry, and they were both genuinely good people. Grace was torn between duty and love, and Duncan only wanted the best for Grace. I was so happy everything worked out for them.
The secondary plot line has to do with this regiment of Highland soldiers who have been pulled from the army to form the Highland Knights in service to the crown. I think there are seven knights in all, so we have a good bit of material and romance to look forward to with this series. I can't wait to see what kind of danger and intrigue the Knights get into next.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 4 stars / 3 flames.
Lady Grace Carrington is the prim and proper eldest daughter of a stodgy old earl. She has always been the dull one, while her younger sister Claire was a bit of a hoyden. Grace has accompanied Claire to the Battle of Waterloo to help Claire reconcile with her estranged husband. After the battle, Claire is searching the field for injured soldiers when she falls upon the braw and bonny Duncan Mackenzie. Duncan is the son of a Highland sheep farmer, the only son with six younger sisters. Duncan is also every bit the Highland warrior - broad shoulders, tight abs, sculpted pecs, and a kilt flirting with his knees.
I was very much in like with this forbidden love story between the earl's daughter and a commoner. Grace and Duncan were both sweet and steamy together. They had an amazing chemistry, and they were both genuinely good people. Grace was torn between duty and love, and Duncan only wanted the best for Grace. I was so happy everything worked out for them.
The secondary plot line has to do with this regiment of Highland soldiers who have been pulled from the army to form the Highland Knights in service to the crown. I think there are seven knights in all, so we have a good bit of material and romance to look forward to with this series. I can't wait to see what kind of danger and intrigue the Knights get into next.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 4 stars / 3 flames.
September 16, 2015
This ranges from okay read to worse. It came and it went. They met, they felt, they made love as they call it, a little bit of conflict and woosh, it’s the ending already. That’s all.
I wasn’t aware this is a second novel from a series but it’s fine, I will not read the previous or next.
I don’t have much to say in this book because I didn’t see much in it. Alright, there’s the plot. A potential plot. I believe every possible plot has a potential but it’s up to the writer how to make it come true to the life of the story. I find this book dull. Apparently its last clutches on the the bright side is the forbidden heat between the Highlander soldier and the English lady, and it’s on the edge as well.
There could have been more instance where we can glimpse more on each of the character’s personality. Circumstances where we can see the characters’ dispositions sans their romantic exploits or anyway so we can meet more of the characters to make us feel something for each. Unfortunately, I finished the novel without establishing something with the characters.
Even with the relationship of the hero and heroine, all I can say is everything escalated quickly. I know deep connections can likely happen when people are helping out each other at their most vulnerable, but with the events that succeeded their first encounter which is similar to what I put in just now, I cannot say what they felt was love. There’s just so much holes in their relationship I cannot comprehend that they truly, madly, deeply love each other as the author writes it.
Alright, that’s it folks. I really have nothing more to say about this. It passed me by and left me with disappointed hopes.
I wasn’t aware this is a second novel from a series but it’s fine, I will not read the previous or next.
I don’t have much to say in this book because I didn’t see much in it. Alright, there’s the plot. A potential plot. I believe every possible plot has a potential but it’s up to the writer how to make it come true to the life of the story. I find this book dull. Apparently its last clutches on the the bright side is the forbidden heat between the Highlander soldier and the English lady, and it’s on the edge as well.
There could have been more instance where we can glimpse more on each of the character’s personality. Circumstances where we can see the characters’ dispositions sans their romantic exploits or anyway so we can meet more of the characters to make us feel something for each. Unfortunately, I finished the novel without establishing something with the characters.
Even with the relationship of the hero and heroine, all I can say is everything escalated quickly. I know deep connections can likely happen when people are helping out each other at their most vulnerable, but with the events that succeeded their first encounter which is similar to what I put in just now, I cannot say what they felt was love. There’s just so much holes in their relationship I cannot comprehend that they truly, madly, deeply love each other as the author writes it.
Alright, that’s it folks. I really have nothing more to say about this. It passed me by and left me with disappointed hopes.
September 17, 2015
4 stars
I can honestly say that this book was a pleasant surprise. I read the blurb and my interest was instantly piqued. A "forbidden love" involving a highlander and a daughter of an English earl. The chemistry between Duncan and Grace was intense and fun to read. I will admit that the storyline, other than the interactions between the two, was a little weak but I didn't care. I wanted the romance to be main and center and it was. My only warning would be there is violence at the end of the book that may make some people uncomfortable. I wasn't expecting that degree because of the tone of the book,. The drastic turn was unexpected. I almost felt it didn't need to be THAT extreme to add to the story. But, none the less it was still a good book and I would recommend it to my historical-loving-friends.
*** An advance reading copy was provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
I can honestly say that this book was a pleasant surprise. I read the blurb and my interest was instantly piqued. A "forbidden love" involving a highlander and a daughter of an English earl. The chemistry between Duncan and Grace was intense and fun to read. I will admit that the storyline, other than the interactions between the two, was a little weak but I didn't care. I wanted the romance to be main and center and it was. My only warning would be there is violence at the end of the book that may make some people uncomfortable. I wasn't expecting that degree because of the tone of the book,. The drastic turn was unexpected. I almost felt it didn't need to be THAT extreme to add to the story. But, none the less it was still a good book and I would recommend it to my historical-loving-friends.
*** An advance reading copy was provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
November 28, 2015
I read this out of order by mistake, but it can be a stand alone. I really liked it. It was a nice sweet romace. The characters were all likable and the couple were well suited, having good chemistry.
It lost a star because I felt there could have been a bit more conflict/action. All in all it was entertaing, a nice break if you have just completed a book which was an emotional rollercoaster ride.
I plan to read the first one in the series as well.
It lost a star because I felt there could have been a bit more conflict/action. All in all it was entertaing, a nice break if you have just completed a book which was an emotional rollercoaster ride.
I plan to read the first one in the series as well.
dnf
May 19, 2024DNF'd after like three chapters. Mind numbingly boring and the pacing is all off. One of my pet peeves is when characters meet and immediately think of each other in sexual scenarios, without any preamble! I think authors do it to mask inability to write chemistry. Also it feels like the underlying assumption is "men just think about all women they meet in terms of sex," which is not a gender essentialism I believe, or one I find very romantic! But why else would a hero who has no chemistry with a heroine, while he is dazed from battle, think "oh I bet she is a virgin."
I was trying to read this for Waterloo stuff, but the way Waterloo is used is like wallpaper Waterloo. It could be any battle, Duncan could be injured anywhere. I might actually read the prequel because even just Grace's reportage of her sister and her husband's story was more interesting to me then whatever was going on here.
I was trying to read this for Waterloo stuff, but the way Waterloo is used is like wallpaper Waterloo. It could be any battle, Duncan could be injured anywhere. I might actually read the prequel because even just Grace's reportage of her sister and her husband's story was more interesting to me then whatever was going on here.
April 18, 2023
I voluntarily read and reviewed this advanced copy from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Spinster and Mr. Scott was like a tender pork tenderloin and I enjoyed every bite. These two characters were soft as silk and gentle as a moonbeam. I'm a sensitive sponge and it does my delicate heart good when I read tender romances. I knew from the first page that I'd love these two and that adoration persisted until the final page. Grace and Duncan were an enchanting pair and I wanted these two lovebirds to get married as soon as they met on the battlefield. Wartime nurse and injured soldier isn't a trope utilized much in modern romances, but ooh it was juicy. I personally dallied with becoming a nurse but bailed on my final week of training when I realized I didn't want to change adult diapers or bathe octogenarians I just met. Romances featuring protagonists with inclinations towards medicine are so few and far between that I really wanted to shout "Hello, nurse!" when Grace channeled her inner Florence Nightingale.
The Spinster and Mr. Scott worked on so many levels for me and I was hooked from the first chapter. They had an immediate chemistry and their courtship had a natural, steady progression. Duncan was so patient and determined to win her charms. Scottish heroes already make me howl, but when they're kind and understanding? Oof. It's a whole 'nother ball game. I appreciated that their main quarrel was legitimate as they belonged to different classes in a time period where that was a big deal. The story didn't bother to rely on my most dreaded writing crutch: miscommunication. They made mistakes and Duncan gave such a humble, earnest apology that even I wanted to forgive him! My interest started to wane near the notorious third act breakup, but thankfully our dream team reconciled. Can we just completely nix miscommunication and 11th hour separation from the romance handbook? Asking for a friend.
The Spinster and Mr. Scott was like a refreshing glass of sweet tea straight down the gullet. It was sweet, tender, and made me wish I could order these Highlander heroes from a catalog or something. This is the year of our Lord 2023, surely we have the technology? This was my first foray with this author and I hope to read more from her in the future. She really nailed those gentle interactions and I was immediately invested in our couple's eventual nuptials. When I can practically taste the wedding cake, I know I'm in good hands. I would happily attend the completely fictitious wedding of The Spinster and Mr. Scott any day of the week!
The Spinster and Mr. Scott was like a tender pork tenderloin and I enjoyed every bite. These two characters were soft as silk and gentle as a moonbeam. I'm a sensitive sponge and it does my delicate heart good when I read tender romances. I knew from the first page that I'd love these two and that adoration persisted until the final page. Grace and Duncan were an enchanting pair and I wanted these two lovebirds to get married as soon as they met on the battlefield. Wartime nurse and injured soldier isn't a trope utilized much in modern romances, but ooh it was juicy. I personally dallied with becoming a nurse but bailed on my final week of training when I realized I didn't want to change adult diapers or bathe octogenarians I just met. Romances featuring protagonists with inclinations towards medicine are so few and far between that I really wanted to shout "Hello, nurse!" when Grace channeled her inner Florence Nightingale.
The Spinster and Mr. Scott worked on so many levels for me and I was hooked from the first chapter. They had an immediate chemistry and their courtship had a natural, steady progression. Duncan was so patient and determined to win her charms. Scottish heroes already make me howl, but when they're kind and understanding? Oof. It's a whole 'nother ball game. I appreciated that their main quarrel was legitimate as they belonged to different classes in a time period where that was a big deal. The story didn't bother to rely on my most dreaded writing crutch: miscommunication. They made mistakes and Duncan gave such a humble, earnest apology that even I wanted to forgive him! My interest started to wane near the notorious third act breakup, but thankfully our dream team reconciled. Can we just completely nix miscommunication and 11th hour separation from the romance handbook? Asking for a friend.
The Spinster and Mr. Scott was like a refreshing glass of sweet tea straight down the gullet. It was sweet, tender, and made me wish I could order these Highlander heroes from a catalog or something. This is the year of our Lord 2023, surely we have the technology? This was my first foray with this author and I hope to read more from her in the future. She really nailed those gentle interactions and I was immediately invested in our couple's eventual nuptials. When I can practically taste the wedding cake, I know I'm in good hands. I would happily attend the completely fictitious wedding of The Spinster and Mr. Scott any day of the week!
September 2, 2023
Rated 3.5
February 19, 2016
Originally posted on Adria's Romance Reviews
* A copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review.
I feel like I’ve been waiting a long time for this book and it certainly didn’t disappoint me in any way except when I got to the last page!
Lady Grace Carrington is a unique lady. Instead of being concerned about ball gowns, gossip and securing a titled husband, she is busy tending to wounded soldiers on the battlefield. This gave Grace way more maturity than most heroines in a historical romance as well as realistic view of the world instead of the typical rose colored glasses or innocently naïve outlook. For me it eliminated a lot of eye rolling on my part because Grace never said or did anything that made me see her as a child instead of a grown woman. Her compassion and belief that a man’s actions in times of danger determined his worth, not his family bloodline made her such a special character. It was clear why Duncan fell in love with her.
And as far as bold Scotsmen go, Duncan Mackenzie is aces with me. He was both fierce warrior and tender lover with a little mischief thrown in for fun. Heck, Jennifer Haymore had me falling in love with him within a few pages! He was confident but not arrogant, strong but not a bully and humble enough to see himself as unworthy of a woman like Grace. I loved how he didn’t try and change who Grace was even though as a “gently bred” lady, Grace should have been shielded from the horrors of war.
I normally don’t say this but I’m glad that Duncan and Grace’s relationship was more about the physical at first because it put them in close proximity and provided them a chance to get to know more about each other. It wasn’t a scorching hot case of instant lust but it was still strong and suited these two much more than say, animalistic lust. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, it just wouldn’t have fit these two characters because they were in some ways wounded, weary souls that needed more than just a physical connection. Highland Heat made me feel that connection that went beyond the physical and that to me made Duncan and Grace such a great couple.
Because this series revolves around a group of Scottish knights who serve their country by outing and sometimes fighting those who would harm innocent people and overthrow the government, there is some action, suspense and mystery in Highland Heat and those aspects kept the story from getting repetitive or stale. It also gave Duncan and Grace new situations to test them as a couple and as individuals.
Final Verdict: The wait paid off for this book because Duncan and Grace are my favorite couple so far. We’ll have to see if Haymore can out do them in her next book!
* A copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review.
I feel like I’ve been waiting a long time for this book and it certainly didn’t disappoint me in any way except when I got to the last page!
Lady Grace Carrington is a unique lady. Instead of being concerned about ball gowns, gossip and securing a titled husband, she is busy tending to wounded soldiers on the battlefield. This gave Grace way more maturity than most heroines in a historical romance as well as realistic view of the world instead of the typical rose colored glasses or innocently naïve outlook. For me it eliminated a lot of eye rolling on my part because Grace never said or did anything that made me see her as a child instead of a grown woman. Her compassion and belief that a man’s actions in times of danger determined his worth, not his family bloodline made her such a special character. It was clear why Duncan fell in love with her.
And as far as bold Scotsmen go, Duncan Mackenzie is aces with me. He was both fierce warrior and tender lover with a little mischief thrown in for fun. Heck, Jennifer Haymore had me falling in love with him within a few pages! He was confident but not arrogant, strong but not a bully and humble enough to see himself as unworthy of a woman like Grace. I loved how he didn’t try and change who Grace was even though as a “gently bred” lady, Grace should have been shielded from the horrors of war.
I normally don’t say this but I’m glad that Duncan and Grace’s relationship was more about the physical at first because it put them in close proximity and provided them a chance to get to know more about each other. It wasn’t a scorching hot case of instant lust but it was still strong and suited these two much more than say, animalistic lust. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, it just wouldn’t have fit these two characters because they were in some ways wounded, weary souls that needed more than just a physical connection. Highland Heat made me feel that connection that went beyond the physical and that to me made Duncan and Grace such a great couple.
Because this series revolves around a group of Scottish knights who serve their country by outing and sometimes fighting those who would harm innocent people and overthrow the government, there is some action, suspense and mystery in Highland Heat and those aspects kept the story from getting repetitive or stale. It also gave Duncan and Grace new situations to test them as a couple and as individuals.
Final Verdict: The wait paid off for this book because Duncan and Grace are my favorite couple so far. We’ll have to see if Haymore can out do them in her next book!
December 5, 2015
ARC REVIEW
The Highland Knights book Two, Highland Heat can be read as a stand-alone. It runs almost parallel with the book that precedes it, A Highlander's Heart. Jennifer Haymore has written a beautiful book. The storyline is about two people who fall in love but they are from two completely different stations. Lady Grace Carrington and Duncan MacKenzie had no business falling in love with each other but neither could help it. It's a great love story about two people fighting everything and almost everyone to be together.
On the bloody fields of Waterloo Grace found a soldier alive with hardly a scratch on him. Duncan MacKenzie was dubbed the Unbreakable MacKenzie, he only suffered a concussion, a few broken ribs and a bullet grazed his arm. His only weakness it seems is his dammed ankle which if he's going to get injured that is what's going to get injured. There was an immediate attraction between the two, but their obvious differences they never thought they would be together. But as fate would have it Duncan would be called on to be a new kind of hero and the two of them would be kept close together from Waterloo to London and beyond.
A separate division of the Home Office was created to investigate and deal with rumors of treason, the new group of spies formed specifically to be all Scottish, The Highland Knights. Grace's brother in law was Duncan's commanding officer and is also part of the new group. This elevated Duncan up to something more than just a farmer's son. The more time Duncan and Grace spend together the stronger the attachment becomes to the point they both are willing to throw everything away to be together. But the uprisers they are trying to track down in Manchester have a different plan and Duncan will go to great lengths to protect Grace.
Overall, I loved their romance. Grace and Duncan have a lovely and steamy romance. The book in it's entirety is a great story and I really look forward to reading the other Highland Knight's books.
The Highland Knights book Two, Highland Heat can be read as a stand-alone. It runs almost parallel with the book that precedes it, A Highlander's Heart. Jennifer Haymore has written a beautiful book. The storyline is about two people who fall in love but they are from two completely different stations. Lady Grace Carrington and Duncan MacKenzie had no business falling in love with each other but neither could help it. It's a great love story about two people fighting everything and almost everyone to be together.
On the bloody fields of Waterloo Grace found a soldier alive with hardly a scratch on him. Duncan MacKenzie was dubbed the Unbreakable MacKenzie, he only suffered a concussion, a few broken ribs and a bullet grazed his arm. His only weakness it seems is his dammed ankle which if he's going to get injured that is what's going to get injured. There was an immediate attraction between the two, but their obvious differences they never thought they would be together. But as fate would have it Duncan would be called on to be a new kind of hero and the two of them would be kept close together from Waterloo to London and beyond.
A separate division of the Home Office was created to investigate and deal with rumors of treason, the new group of spies formed specifically to be all Scottish, The Highland Knights. Grace's brother in law was Duncan's commanding officer and is also part of the new group. This elevated Duncan up to something more than just a farmer's son. The more time Duncan and Grace spend together the stronger the attachment becomes to the point they both are willing to throw everything away to be together. But the uprisers they are trying to track down in Manchester have a different plan and Duncan will go to great lengths to protect Grace.
Overall, I loved their romance. Grace and Duncan have a lovely and steamy romance. The book in it's entirety is a great story and I really look forward to reading the other Highland Knight's books.
May 4, 2023
When Lady Grace stumpbles upon wounded Duncan Scott on the battlefield of Waterloo, there's an instant spark between the two of them. The only problem: they're too far apart in social classes. A union between the two would never be tolerated.
Oof. Caution, potential spoilers.
I barely know what to say about this book because I feel like I expected the wrong thing ... this is the first I've ever read by this author and whilst I'm partial to regency romances and do not mind the occaisional fun sex scene, I do mind the "she's such an innocent virgin and he's been with so many women"-trope in any of them, which happened in this book, and I mind when there's more sex than plot. I started skipping sex scenes because they started to bore me. I think this could have been such a fun romance read had it had the space for it, especially considering the complications regarding social class and political intruige - with barely 200 pages the story felt very rushed to me, especially considering how close the protagonists got so very fast and how much was going on. I wish it had been longer, and I wish it had been more plot-focused.
Oof. Caution, potential spoilers.
I barely know what to say about this book because I feel like I expected the wrong thing ... this is the first I've ever read by this author and whilst I'm partial to regency romances and do not mind the occaisional fun sex scene, I do mind the "she's such an innocent virgin and he's been with so many women"-trope in any of them, which happened in this book, and I mind when there's more sex than plot. I started skipping sex scenes because they started to bore me. I think this could have been such a fun romance read had it had the space for it, especially considering the complications regarding social class and political intruige - with barely 200 pages the story felt very rushed to me, especially considering how close the protagonists got so very fast and how much was going on. I wish it had been longer, and I wish it had been more plot-focused.
July 1, 2025
I don’t think my reading of this revised version held up quite as well as my initial reading of the original. However, I did still like Grace and Duncan and couldn’t help rooting for them. What did get old though was how often the impossibility of their relationship was mentioned. It became rather repetitive as the enumeration of all the reasons they couldn’t be together went on ad nauseum because Duncan wasn’t good enough. While he did love her, Grace’s father was really just using her to make his life easier and without much thought to her happiness and I would have liked to see him come around in a bigger way somehow. I would’ve liked something to make Duncan feel more worthy. Otherwise, I liked this couple and their determination to be together, and the premise of the series is a good one.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 8, 2015
Review to follow.
June 23, 2023
The Spinster and Mr. Scott. Oh Boy. I think that you will like this story. I found myself lost and the book and I had no intentions of looking back. That’s how great this story was.
The story was engaging. It was very logical and it made sense for a background story to the main characters missions and goals. Duncan and Grace are your main characters. They turn of the heat in so many ways that I don’t know if my mind recovered from it. This story starts at the famous battle that no one wants to remember. Waterloo. Instantly I was intrigued. Their story is one were it gives a small glimpse of war Heroes and the people who did not return from the war. I like that the writer brought forward Rob’s character who fights the disconnecting mental challenges of the post war. Duncan has his wounds too, but it’s a special lass that distracts him. The book focuses around the explorations of romance between Duncan and Grace.
I believe that you will love their story. The interesting plot involves Duncan and other soldiers to be called to duty by the crown. This duty places them in the middle of some high stakes. The excitement comes from the challenges the men face as they race across the country as time runs out. My favorite character is Duncan and if you read the story, you will know why I favor him more.
What’s that saying? Something about how a Scott know’s how to pleasure his woman better than a … Well you get what I’m trying to convey. Don’t worry I'm getting to your burning question. Yes, this book has steam that hits the top of the richter scale. I was happy to read that Grace’s character is a strong woman who is very capable of taking care of herself and her home.
I mean who wouldn’t have respect for a woman who stood in the middle of Waterloo post war?! Grace had her issues too that are mostly family issues. People this is a woman who did not back down. You are going to like her. Duncan had Grace rolling in the sheets so much that there’s no way that the Major didn’t know what was going on.
Grace was thinking that she never felt more alive. Duncan you are the man who I will conjure up every time I read a romance novel. When the writer describes this man I believe the writer actually had a model in front of her while she took notes for the description of Duncan. God that would have been great for me. Why didn’t I take up art?
Man I missed out on so much. This is a very entertaining story that I know you will enjoy reading. The writing is great. The story is a pleaser and the characters are fantastic. I give this story two snaps and a, Tibbets, a word of advice.
Never mess with a Highlander’s woman. The offense is bloody punishable. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on! I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The story was engaging. It was very logical and it made sense for a background story to the main characters missions and goals. Duncan and Grace are your main characters. They turn of the heat in so many ways that I don’t know if my mind recovered from it. This story starts at the famous battle that no one wants to remember. Waterloo. Instantly I was intrigued. Their story is one were it gives a small glimpse of war Heroes and the people who did not return from the war. I like that the writer brought forward Rob’s character who fights the disconnecting mental challenges of the post war. Duncan has his wounds too, but it’s a special lass that distracts him. The book focuses around the explorations of romance between Duncan and Grace.
I believe that you will love their story. The interesting plot involves Duncan and other soldiers to be called to duty by the crown. This duty places them in the middle of some high stakes. The excitement comes from the challenges the men face as they race across the country as time runs out. My favorite character is Duncan and if you read the story, you will know why I favor him more.
What’s that saying? Something about how a Scott know’s how to pleasure his woman better than a … Well you get what I’m trying to convey. Don’t worry I'm getting to your burning question. Yes, this book has steam that hits the top of the richter scale. I was happy to read that Grace’s character is a strong woman who is very capable of taking care of herself and her home.
I mean who wouldn’t have respect for a woman who stood in the middle of Waterloo post war?! Grace had her issues too that are mostly family issues. People this is a woman who did not back down. You are going to like her. Duncan had Grace rolling in the sheets so much that there’s no way that the Major didn’t know what was going on.
Grace was thinking that she never felt more alive. Duncan you are the man who I will conjure up every time I read a romance novel. When the writer describes this man I believe the writer actually had a model in front of her while she took notes for the description of Duncan. God that would have been great for me. Why didn’t I take up art?
Man I missed out on so much. This is a very entertaining story that I know you will enjoy reading. The writing is great. The story is a pleaser and the characters are fantastic. I give this story two snaps and a, Tibbets, a word of advice.
Never mess with a Highlander’s woman. The offense is bloody punishable. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on! I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 9, 2023
The Spinster and Mr. Scott is a sweet, enjoyable read! I think this is the first nursing from war injuries-trope book that I have read-- or at least good enough for me to remember reading!
Grace is a nurse, a daughter of an earl who doesn't think she'll get married. Duncan is a soldier, and is injured at Waterloo. The attraction is instant, and the book follows the two navigate through a myriad of troubles, the biggest one being their class status-- can the two overcome her being a lady and Duncan's non-aristocratic roots?
Ooh, the chemistry is awesome. I love, love, love these two together! It was a fast read, and I was entertained from start to finish. Dialogue is great and flows well!
I have really been enjoying Jennifer Haymore books, thank you to NetGalley for introducing me to them through ARCs! I was given this book for my honest opinion, and I'm excited to seek more of the author's books out from the few that I've read!
Grace is a nurse, a daughter of an earl who doesn't think she'll get married. Duncan is a soldier, and is injured at Waterloo. The attraction is instant, and the book follows the two navigate through a myriad of troubles, the biggest one being their class status-- can the two overcome her being a lady and Duncan's non-aristocratic roots?
Ooh, the chemistry is awesome. I love, love, love these two together! It was a fast read, and I was entertained from start to finish. Dialogue is great and flows well!
I have really been enjoying Jennifer Haymore books, thank you to NetGalley for introducing me to them through ARCs! I was given this book for my honest opinion, and I'm excited to seek more of the author's books out from the few that I've read!
November 28, 2015
It is not very often that a woman meets the love of her life by falling on him while surveying the aftermath of a battle. But in the case of one Lady Grace Carrington, that is precisely what happens.
This is a book that will have you hooked in three chapters or less. The second book in the Highland Knights companion series. This is the story of Grace and Duncan. (A bit of clarification may be in order here...due to the fact that this story breaks the Historical Romance mold in a big way.)
Unlike most HR's where the story is told from either the leading man's or lady's point of view. The points of view found here alternate between the two. These transition happen so seamlessly however, that one is hardly aware that said transition has occurred until well into his or her scene.
Leading Lady Grace
Grace Carrington is a woman who has contented herself with her lot in life. She is very proud of the fact that she acts as right hand to her aristocratic father, and with the fact that while she is a spinster;
she has maintained a reputation that is beyond reproach.
That is not to say however, that Grace is a cold fish. She is just...well practical.
That, and maybe a little gun shy. Given the fact that she was front and center for the marital problems between her sister, Lady Claire Campbell and her husband, Major Robert Campbell.
(See Highland Heart, Highland Knights #1)
But one look into the sparkling aquamarine eyes of Sargent Duncan Mackenzie, and even the blood and suffering of Waterloo all but disappears.
Things between Duncan and Grace develop very quickly, but this breakneck pace is totally justified by both wartime politics and Duncan's later, more covert service to the crown.
The plot pacing is important enough to be mentioned here because it speaks volumes about Grace's adaptability.
She proves time and time again that she is not a woman to be denied or stifled by the hindrances of convention.
She is strong, and unafraid to risk her heart, her body, and her life for Duncan, and their love.
Grace is a fireball of a heroine. She is passionate, loyal, and a fighter
In short, she is perfect of the brave and brawny Scot.
Duncan...Oh Duncan!
Known to the men of his regiment as "Unbreakable Mackenzie", Duncan has the reputation of being the perfect soldier.
Though he someday dreams of life away from the horrors of war, and the heat of battle. He is fully aware that his social standing as an untitled and unlanded Scot, guarantees him a common existence.
A life that would be enough.
Until Grace...
The fact that Grace is a child of the ton, puts an entirely new spin on things for Duncan. Because he wants this woman more than a drowning man wants rescue, Duncan is forced to confront issues of class and social ramifications that have not been issues in his life to this point.
Said issues act as a major point of contention between the two lovers. With him erring on the side of caution, and Grace wanting to throw caution to the wind. There are other factors standing in the way of these two, but in the interest of not being too spoilery... I leave the their discovery to
my readers
The Passion
This gets a section to itself in this review because it is so well written. If you looked up chemistry in the dictionary, you would find these two. The depth of their passion is fathomless as it is, but when you add forbidden fruit issues and dangers of war into the mix!
Whoa!
These are two people that readers will be willing to fight for, because they are so willing to fight for each other.
Another reason that passion and chemistry are allowed to rule the day is that the rules of society don't really apply here. Readers are allowed to see Duncan and Grace as people, rather than social standings.
The Verdict
This is a book that you won't want to end. There is so much emotion threaded throughout the story, that it wraps the reader in a vibrant cloak of visceral experience. The characters are multifaceted beings; written in such a way as to never show their hands at once in any situation.
The pacing is very fast. As a result, there is never a point at which one becomes bored.
This is a book that those who are new to Historical Romance will love. Although it may serve to spoil readers for other books.
Jennifer Haymore is an author of the highest caliber. Her story craft is flawless, and she is more than ready to take her place with the likes of Elosia James, Tessa Dare, and Lorraine Heath.
Reviewer's Note:
Though this is the second book in a series, it may be read as a stand alone.
This is a book that will have you hooked in three chapters or less. The second book in the Highland Knights companion series. This is the story of Grace and Duncan. (A bit of clarification may be in order here...due to the fact that this story breaks the Historical Romance mold in a big way.)
Unlike most HR's where the story is told from either the leading man's or lady's point of view. The points of view found here alternate between the two. These transition happen so seamlessly however, that one is hardly aware that said transition has occurred until well into his or her scene.
Leading Lady Grace
Grace Carrington is a woman who has contented herself with her lot in life. She is very proud of the fact that she acts as right hand to her aristocratic father, and with the fact that while she is a spinster;
she has maintained a reputation that is beyond reproach.
That is not to say however, that Grace is a cold fish. She is just...well practical.
That, and maybe a little gun shy. Given the fact that she was front and center for the marital problems between her sister, Lady Claire Campbell and her husband, Major Robert Campbell.
(See Highland Heart, Highland Knights #1)
But one look into the sparkling aquamarine eyes of Sargent Duncan Mackenzie, and even the blood and suffering of Waterloo all but disappears.
Things between Duncan and Grace develop very quickly, but this breakneck pace is totally justified by both wartime politics and Duncan's later, more covert service to the crown.
The plot pacing is important enough to be mentioned here because it speaks volumes about Grace's adaptability.
She proves time and time again that she is not a woman to be denied or stifled by the hindrances of convention.
She is strong, and unafraid to risk her heart, her body, and her life for Duncan, and their love.
Grace is a fireball of a heroine. She is passionate, loyal, and a fighter
In short, she is perfect of the brave and brawny Scot.
Duncan...Oh Duncan!
Known to the men of his regiment as "Unbreakable Mackenzie", Duncan has the reputation of being the perfect soldier.
Though he someday dreams of life away from the horrors of war, and the heat of battle. He is fully aware that his social standing as an untitled and unlanded Scot, guarantees him a common existence.
A life that would be enough.
Until Grace...
The fact that Grace is a child of the ton, puts an entirely new spin on things for Duncan. Because he wants this woman more than a drowning man wants rescue, Duncan is forced to confront issues of class and social ramifications that have not been issues in his life to this point.
Said issues act as a major point of contention between the two lovers. With him erring on the side of caution, and Grace wanting to throw caution to the wind. There are other factors standing in the way of these two, but in the interest of not being too spoilery... I leave the their discovery to
my readers
The Passion
This gets a section to itself in this review because it is so well written. If you looked up chemistry in the dictionary, you would find these two. The depth of their passion is fathomless as it is, but when you add forbidden fruit issues and dangers of war into the mix!
Whoa!
These are two people that readers will be willing to fight for, because they are so willing to fight for each other.
Another reason that passion and chemistry are allowed to rule the day is that the rules of society don't really apply here. Readers are allowed to see Duncan and Grace as people, rather than social standings.
The Verdict
This is a book that you won't want to end. There is so much emotion threaded throughout the story, that it wraps the reader in a vibrant cloak of visceral experience. The characters are multifaceted beings; written in such a way as to never show their hands at once in any situation.
The pacing is very fast. As a result, there is never a point at which one becomes bored.
This is a book that those who are new to Historical Romance will love. Although it may serve to spoil readers for other books.
Jennifer Haymore is an author of the highest caliber. Her story craft is flawless, and she is more than ready to take her place with the likes of Elosia James, Tessa Dare, and Lorraine Heath.
Reviewer's Note:
Though this is the second book in a series, it may be read as a stand alone.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews