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Highland Trouble #1
The Highlander's Bride
Their attraction is forbidden
All Highland warrior Gavin Patrick wants is to get back to his native Scotland. But before he can leave the battlefield, he's given a final mission-escort Lady Marie Colette to her fiancé. Under no circumstances is he to lay hands on the beautiful, clever-tongued heiress...no matter how desperate the temptation.
Their desire, undeniable
Forced to pose as a married couple to make their escape from France, Gavin and Marie Colette find themselves thrown into peril...and each other's arms. As the danger mounts, so does their forbidden passion. But it isn't until Marie Colette is taken from him that Gavin is forced to decide-is he willing to lose the woman who stole his heart, or will he jeopardize his honor, defy his promise, and steal her in return?
All Highland warrior Gavin Patrick wants is to get back to his native Scotland. But before he can leave the battlefield, he's given a final mission-escort Lady Marie Colette to her fiancé. Under no circumstances is he to lay hands on the beautiful, clever-tongued heiress...no matter how desperate the temptation.
Their desire, undeniable
Forced to pose as a married couple to make their escape from France, Gavin and Marie Colette find themselves thrown into peril...and each other's arms. As the danger mounts, so does their forbidden passion. But it isn't until Marie Colette is taken from him that Gavin is forced to decide-is he willing to lose the woman who stole his heart, or will he jeopardize his honor, defy his promise, and steal her in return?
385 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2015
104 people are currently reading
996 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Forester
21 books326 followersAmanda Forester holds a PhD in clinical psychology and a Masters degree in theology. As a psychologist, she has worked as a clinical researcher and a university instructor (what they call you when they don’t want to give you tenure). None of which has anything to do with writing romance novels. After trying for many years to stop the internal storylines floating around her head, she finally gave up and wrote one down. Now when she is caught daydreaming and talking to herself she can just say, “I’m plotting a scene for my next novel,” which sounds so much better than, “I’m hallucinating and responding to internal stimuli.”
Amanda lives in the Pacific Northwest with her officer and a gentleman husband and their two remarkably active, naturally brilliant children. They share their home with two fiendishly destructive cats and one lazy dog.
The Highlander’s Series represents Amanda's first venture into writing historical fiction, so she would greatly enjoy hearing from readers.
Amanda lives in the Pacific Northwest with her officer and a gentleman husband and their two remarkably active, naturally brilliant children. They share their home with two fiendishly destructive cats and one lazy dog.
The Highlander’s Series represents Amanda's first venture into writing historical fiction, so she would greatly enjoy hearing from readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
June 9, 2020
I loved the hero. Took me a while to warm up to the heroine, but she totally grew on me.
This would have been a four star except for the unnecessary angst. There was just too much drama!
This would have been a four star except for the unnecessary angst. There was just too much drama!
December 29, 2015
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Summary
Highland Warrior, Gavin Patrick, fighting in the 100 hundred years war, for France against the English. Gavin ends up saving the life of a French nobleman, a nobleman that has a plan for him and a way to return to his homeland. His duty is to escort Lady Marie Collette, to her Scottish fiancee. Marie Collette, knows that she has never had choices in her life. Never been show any affection accept with her father. Other than that, she lives a lonely existence. Gavin knows that once they start their journey, that his job is going to get tougher. There are English patrols everywhere along their path to the shore. And with the large entourage, Gavin knows their risks are higher. From the start, Gavin and Marie can barely tolerate each other. They don't understand each other, but soon their journey becomes full of danger and peril. Gavin will have to use every tool at his disposal to get Marie to her destination, because if the English find her, her life is forfeit.
The Hero
Gavin Patrick, is a capable and proud Scottish Warrior. Gavin has come to France, to help fight against the English. Gavin's life changed the moment he agreed to escort Marie Collette. Gavin is proud and capable and full of honor and can fight. Gavin is a character you instantly gravitate towards from the get go. He is chivalrous without coming off as being pompous or full of himself. He can be humble when the situation warrants it, and admits when he is wrong but stands by what he thinks is right. Gavin is one of the best heroes I have read in a while. I love the way he stands up to Collette, and makes choices that save lives. Gavin is such a great main character, a well-balanced personality.
The Heroine
Marie Collette, has lived a very sheltered life all of her life. Her mother died giving birth to her, and her father set her up with five maids, all of whom are strict and cool in demeanor and don't have one touch of affection for her. All they care about is that Collette acts with propriety in every situation. She loves books, especially stories that are packed with adventure because she craves adventure. There are many different sides to her character. At first she is very closed off, and comes off as being cold but in reality that is just how she acts on the outside, on the inside she yearns for affection and love and some adventure. This is where we see hidden depths to her character. Like an onion, with each chapter, we see one layer get pulled off and see the true essence of Marie Collette. I will admit, in the beginning I didn't care for her very much. She seemed to have too much hold on material things, but as the story progresses, we see how that is all she has ever known. We see amazing growth and development in her character, and see the kind and loving person she can be.
Plot and Story Line
I have been a fan for Amanda Forester for quite some time but have only read a couple of her works. But when I saw The Highlander's Bride on the shelf, I knew I had to grab it up!! I love highlander romances, but this story line really hooked me in. Many who have read my reviews, know that I love a romance that has some adventure and historical context to it---or what is the point of historical romance???
Well, Amanda Forester has introduced us to a story that is full of historical facts and makes the reader get in touch with events that I knew very little of beforehand. Of course, I was always intrigued by the Hundred Years War, which was a conflict in the 1300's-1400's between England and France. Both sides had other groups of people aiding them in their fight. On France's side Scotland came to their aid (which considering how the English and the Scots felt about each other is no big surprise) The story sets off with seeing a battle between the English and the French and seeing a brave Scot save the life of a nobleman that is surrounded by English troops. There is courage and bravery in the hero of the story. He is eager to get back home and is willing to take on the duty of seeing Collette safely transferred to Scotland.
But the dangers along the way are difficult, and soon the reader is wrapped in a story of adventure, passion, and danger lurking in every corner. There is a pivotal moment in the story, which is where we see fabulous character development when the group comes upon a town that the English burned and pillaged and no one survived except an infant. Which then leads them to five children---all females. They manage to find homes for all of them except for Pippa and the baby. Pippa is outspoken, and has seen much in her small lifetime, but is brave and loving. I really enjoyed Pippa's influence on the story, because she refuses to marry just anyone. I like that she stands up for what is right and this influence is a turning point for Collette.
But even when they get to Scotland, their journey and struggles don't end there, there is something evil waiting for them and it will take working together and finding unexpected allies to hold onto the love that Gavin and Collette both feel for each other.
The Cover
What a wonderful cover, I love the pose here. How strong and formidable it seems, but also has a soft and gentle look about it.
Overall View
A Highlander's Bride is an emotionally driven story that takes us back in time through history, to a time of fighting for what is right. We see a love blossom against all odds, one that is full of strife, turmoil and adventure. A story that will stay with you for a long time. A SPELLBINDING LOVE STORY!!!
Summary
Highland Warrior, Gavin Patrick, fighting in the 100 hundred years war, for France against the English. Gavin ends up saving the life of a French nobleman, a nobleman that has a plan for him and a way to return to his homeland. His duty is to escort Lady Marie Collette, to her Scottish fiancee. Marie Collette, knows that she has never had choices in her life. Never been show any affection accept with her father. Other than that, she lives a lonely existence. Gavin knows that once they start their journey, that his job is going to get tougher. There are English patrols everywhere along their path to the shore. And with the large entourage, Gavin knows their risks are higher. From the start, Gavin and Marie can barely tolerate each other. They don't understand each other, but soon their journey becomes full of danger and peril. Gavin will have to use every tool at his disposal to get Marie to her destination, because if the English find her, her life is forfeit.
The Hero
Gavin Patrick, is a capable and proud Scottish Warrior. Gavin has come to France, to help fight against the English. Gavin's life changed the moment he agreed to escort Marie Collette. Gavin is proud and capable and full of honor and can fight. Gavin is a character you instantly gravitate towards from the get go. He is chivalrous without coming off as being pompous or full of himself. He can be humble when the situation warrants it, and admits when he is wrong but stands by what he thinks is right. Gavin is one of the best heroes I have read in a while. I love the way he stands up to Collette, and makes choices that save lives. Gavin is such a great main character, a well-balanced personality.
The Heroine
Marie Collette, has lived a very sheltered life all of her life. Her mother died giving birth to her, and her father set her up with five maids, all of whom are strict and cool in demeanor and don't have one touch of affection for her. All they care about is that Collette acts with propriety in every situation. She loves books, especially stories that are packed with adventure because she craves adventure. There are many different sides to her character. At first she is very closed off, and comes off as being cold but in reality that is just how she acts on the outside, on the inside she yearns for affection and love and some adventure. This is where we see hidden depths to her character. Like an onion, with each chapter, we see one layer get pulled off and see the true essence of Marie Collette. I will admit, in the beginning I didn't care for her very much. She seemed to have too much hold on material things, but as the story progresses, we see how that is all she has ever known. We see amazing growth and development in her character, and see the kind and loving person she can be.
Plot and Story Line
I have been a fan for Amanda Forester for quite some time but have only read a couple of her works. But when I saw The Highlander's Bride on the shelf, I knew I had to grab it up!! I love highlander romances, but this story line really hooked me in. Many who have read my reviews, know that I love a romance that has some adventure and historical context to it---or what is the point of historical romance???
Well, Amanda Forester has introduced us to a story that is full of historical facts and makes the reader get in touch with events that I knew very little of beforehand. Of course, I was always intrigued by the Hundred Years War, which was a conflict in the 1300's-1400's between England and France. Both sides had other groups of people aiding them in their fight. On France's side Scotland came to their aid (which considering how the English and the Scots felt about each other is no big surprise) The story sets off with seeing a battle between the English and the French and seeing a brave Scot save the life of a nobleman that is surrounded by English troops. There is courage and bravery in the hero of the story. He is eager to get back home and is willing to take on the duty of seeing Collette safely transferred to Scotland.
But the dangers along the way are difficult, and soon the reader is wrapped in a story of adventure, passion, and danger lurking in every corner. There is a pivotal moment in the story, which is where we see fabulous character development when the group comes upon a town that the English burned and pillaged and no one survived except an infant. Which then leads them to five children---all females. They manage to find homes for all of them except for Pippa and the baby. Pippa is outspoken, and has seen much in her small lifetime, but is brave and loving. I really enjoyed Pippa's influence on the story, because she refuses to marry just anyone. I like that she stands up for what is right and this influence is a turning point for Collette.
But even when they get to Scotland, their journey and struggles don't end there, there is something evil waiting for them and it will take working together and finding unexpected allies to hold onto the love that Gavin and Collette both feel for each other.
The Cover
What a wonderful cover, I love the pose here. How strong and formidable it seems, but also has a soft and gentle look about it.
Overall View
A Highlander's Bride is an emotionally driven story that takes us back in time through history, to a time of fighting for what is right. We see a love blossom against all odds, one that is full of strife, turmoil and adventure. A story that will stay with you for a long time. A SPELLBINDING LOVE STORY!!!
May 23, 2024
Just as good the third time around!
August 8, 2024
Review from 2015
A- for narration/ C+ for content.
I don’t have a very good track-record with Highlander Romances. I haven’t read or listened to a great many, it’s true, but those I have read have tended to have identical plotlines (boy-meets-girl-from-opposing-clan, boy-and-girl-hate-each-other, boy-and-girl-fall-in-luurve – that sort of thing), so I’ve been wary about choosing review titles with the word “Highlander” in the title. In fact, I’d seen The Highlander’s Bride on our regular list of new releases and ruled it out – until I saw Mary Jane Wells listed as the narrator. She hasn’t let me down yet, so I waded in, thinking that even if the story was disappointing, I’d at least be able to enjoy her performance.
The story turned out to be a predictable one, but was enjoyable nonetheless. The romance simmers with sexual attraction and longing, although the obstacles that are necessary to every romance are somewhat flimsy here and I could have wished the two protagonists had been little less blandly “nice”.
Sir Gavin Patrick, a Scottish mercenary fighting in France saves the life of another man on the battlefield, not realising at the time that the man is the wealthy Duc de Bergerac. Wishing to thank and honour his saviour, the duke invites Gavin to attend him at his castle. Although he is a knight, Gavin isn’t rich – his family are crofters who work the land in the Highlands – so he hopes for some sort of financial remuneration and is not a little surprised when the duke introduces him to his daughter, the beautiful Lady Marie Colette. Colette and Gavin instantly jump to the conclusion that the duke intends for them to wed, and while there is no denying the instant attraction they feel, Colette has no wish to leave her homeland for the wilds of Scotland, a country whose people – she has heard –are little more than barbarians.
In spite of this, however, she is just the tiniest bit disappointed when her father announces that the honour he intends to bestow upon Sir Gavin is that of escorting her and her humungously large and cumbersome dowry safely to Scotland and into the arms of her betrothed, Laird MacKenzie, who has already dispatched a large number of troops to France to swell Bergerac’s forces.
Lady Marie Collette has lived a sheltered, prescribed life. Her exalted position means that her whole life has been geared towards her doing her duty as laid out by her father and doing the best for the people of Bergerac, so she submits to the duke’s decree and prepares to set out for Scotland with Sir Gavin as her escort and guide.
The story is essentially a road-trip romance, in which Gavin and Colette gradually lose their entire retinue of guards and ladies and end up having to travel alone together but for an abandoned baby they find among the ruins of a burned-out village and a sharp-tongued young woman who acts as Colette’s maid when her ladies-in-waiting decide not to make the channel crossing. To allay suspicion, the pair has to travel as a newly-wed couple, throwing them into unexpectedly intimate situations which, given their growing feelings for each other and the fact that Colette is destined for another – they want desperately to avoid.
My biggest problem with the story is that it’s one of those where there is no real conflict keeping the couple apart other than Colette’s insistence on doing her duty. Of course, duty and honour were exactly the things a young woman of her standing was bred for and are things she holds very dear, so her determination to do the right thing is understandable; but it still creates rather a weak obstacle in a romance novel. There are places I wish the pacing had been a little swifter, and the introduction and conclusion of a secondary romance in injury time (i.e, just before the end) almost gave me whiplash! It was sweet, but ultimately irrelevant and seemed tacked on solely in order to tie up a couple of loose ends.
Gavin and Colette are attractive, decent characters, but don’t have much substance to them. Colette initially comes across as rather cold and condescending, but is quickly revealed to be much kinder and more compassionate than Gavin has assumed; and her goodness and pluck when faced with the problems they encounter on their journey only serve to intensify his attraction to her. Gavin is your bog-standard big, braw, brawny Highlander with a streak of honour a mile wide and a determination to protect his lady at all costs. On paper, I suspect they’d both have been rather bland, but are saved from being so in audio by virtue of a strongly characterised performance by Ms Wells, who has quickly become one of my “go-to” narrators.
Her naturalistic style of delivery is very much to my taste, and I like the way she picks out the humour in the dialogue and narrative. Her pacing is excellent, and she hits all the right emotional notes, especially in the more poignant moments and intimate scenes. The Scottish accent she employs for Gavin is accurate and consistent throughout, bereft of mispronunciations and was a joy to listen to. Colette’s French-accented English is equally good; Ms Wells gives her a slight accent which is convincing but not so thick as to be difficult to understand. All the secondary characters are suitably voiced and differentiated, and she does a good job distinguishing between Colette’s four ladies-in-waiting by varying pitch and timbre so that there is no confusion as to who is speaking in the scenes in which they all appear. The one thing that puzzled me was her interpretation of Pippa, the young maid who joins them en route. Unless I missed something, Pippa is French, but for some reason, Ms Wells doesn’t give her an accent which I found a little odd. That said, it didn’t matter in the end, as it adds variety to the overall performance.
In spite of the reservations I’ve expressed, The Highlander’s Bride is an enjoyable listen. It’s undemanding and well-written, and there is a nice undercurrent of sexual tension between the couple, although the actual sex scenes are pretty tame. Ultimately, however, I’d say this is a story best experienced in audio because Mary Jane Wells’ thoroughly engaging performance lifts it firmly into the “better than average” category.
A- for narration/ C+ for content.
I don’t have a very good track-record with Highlander Romances. I haven’t read or listened to a great many, it’s true, but those I have read have tended to have identical plotlines (boy-meets-girl-from-opposing-clan, boy-and-girl-hate-each-other, boy-and-girl-fall-in-luurve – that sort of thing), so I’ve been wary about choosing review titles with the word “Highlander” in the title. In fact, I’d seen The Highlander’s Bride on our regular list of new releases and ruled it out – until I saw Mary Jane Wells listed as the narrator. She hasn’t let me down yet, so I waded in, thinking that even if the story was disappointing, I’d at least be able to enjoy her performance.
The story turned out to be a predictable one, but was enjoyable nonetheless. The romance simmers with sexual attraction and longing, although the obstacles that are necessary to every romance are somewhat flimsy here and I could have wished the two protagonists had been little less blandly “nice”.
Sir Gavin Patrick, a Scottish mercenary fighting in France saves the life of another man on the battlefield, not realising at the time that the man is the wealthy Duc de Bergerac. Wishing to thank and honour his saviour, the duke invites Gavin to attend him at his castle. Although he is a knight, Gavin isn’t rich – his family are crofters who work the land in the Highlands – so he hopes for some sort of financial remuneration and is not a little surprised when the duke introduces him to his daughter, the beautiful Lady Marie Colette. Colette and Gavin instantly jump to the conclusion that the duke intends for them to wed, and while there is no denying the instant attraction they feel, Colette has no wish to leave her homeland for the wilds of Scotland, a country whose people – she has heard –are little more than barbarians.
In spite of this, however, she is just the tiniest bit disappointed when her father announces that the honour he intends to bestow upon Sir Gavin is that of escorting her and her humungously large and cumbersome dowry safely to Scotland and into the arms of her betrothed, Laird MacKenzie, who has already dispatched a large number of troops to France to swell Bergerac’s forces.
Lady Marie Collette has lived a sheltered, prescribed life. Her exalted position means that her whole life has been geared towards her doing her duty as laid out by her father and doing the best for the people of Bergerac, so she submits to the duke’s decree and prepares to set out for Scotland with Sir Gavin as her escort and guide.
The story is essentially a road-trip romance, in which Gavin and Colette gradually lose their entire retinue of guards and ladies and end up having to travel alone together but for an abandoned baby they find among the ruins of a burned-out village and a sharp-tongued young woman who acts as Colette’s maid when her ladies-in-waiting decide not to make the channel crossing. To allay suspicion, the pair has to travel as a newly-wed couple, throwing them into unexpectedly intimate situations which, given their growing feelings for each other and the fact that Colette is destined for another – they want desperately to avoid.
My biggest problem with the story is that it’s one of those where there is no real conflict keeping the couple apart other than Colette’s insistence on doing her duty. Of course, duty and honour were exactly the things a young woman of her standing was bred for and are things she holds very dear, so her determination to do the right thing is understandable; but it still creates rather a weak obstacle in a romance novel. There are places I wish the pacing had been a little swifter, and the introduction and conclusion of a secondary romance in injury time (i.e, just before the end) almost gave me whiplash! It was sweet, but ultimately irrelevant and seemed tacked on solely in order to tie up a couple of loose ends.
Gavin and Colette are attractive, decent characters, but don’t have much substance to them. Colette initially comes across as rather cold and condescending, but is quickly revealed to be much kinder and more compassionate than Gavin has assumed; and her goodness and pluck when faced with the problems they encounter on their journey only serve to intensify his attraction to her. Gavin is your bog-standard big, braw, brawny Highlander with a streak of honour a mile wide and a determination to protect his lady at all costs. On paper, I suspect they’d both have been rather bland, but are saved from being so in audio by virtue of a strongly characterised performance by Ms Wells, who has quickly become one of my “go-to” narrators.
Her naturalistic style of delivery is very much to my taste, and I like the way she picks out the humour in the dialogue and narrative. Her pacing is excellent, and she hits all the right emotional notes, especially in the more poignant moments and intimate scenes. The Scottish accent she employs for Gavin is accurate and consistent throughout, bereft of mispronunciations and was a joy to listen to. Colette’s French-accented English is equally good; Ms Wells gives her a slight accent which is convincing but not so thick as to be difficult to understand. All the secondary characters are suitably voiced and differentiated, and she does a good job distinguishing between Colette’s four ladies-in-waiting by varying pitch and timbre so that there is no confusion as to who is speaking in the scenes in which they all appear. The one thing that puzzled me was her interpretation of Pippa, the young maid who joins them en route. Unless I missed something, Pippa is French, but for some reason, Ms Wells doesn’t give her an accent which I found a little odd. That said, it didn’t matter in the end, as it adds variety to the overall performance.
In spite of the reservations I’ve expressed, The Highlander’s Bride is an enjoyable listen. It’s undemanding and well-written, and there is a nice undercurrent of sexual tension between the couple, although the actual sex scenes are pretty tame. Ultimately, however, I’d say this is a story best experienced in audio because Mary Jane Wells’ thoroughly engaging performance lifts it firmly into the “better than average” category.
July 23, 2022
3.25 stars
September 2, 2021
I instantly fell in love with the audiobook 😍🥰 The accents and modulation drew me into the story and plunged me directly into the lives of these characters. The narrator (Mary Jane Wells) certainly did this story justice. Audiobook-5 stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I liked Gavin, he was as charming as highlanders come. Colette had a strong personality, so it took me a while to warm to her. However, she proved to be sweet and amenable and I enjoyed the relationship between her and Gavin.
We get an outside view of Gavin and Colette’s relationship through the eyes of Pippa (an orphan girl they rescued). I really enjoyed her POV…her thoughts were funny and so very candid. There were some Christian elements (praying, talk of god and faith, etc.)
The plot was interesting but the story occasionally slowed, causing the pace to be inconsistent. Sadly it fizzled out toward the end 😕 While the story was far fetched it was very entertaining.
Favorite Quotes
“You may not be free to love as you will, but my heart beats true and only for you.” - Gavin 🥰😭
CONTENT
Romance: Kissing, Moderately detailed intimacy (not explicit)
Violence: Mild
Language: None
June 2, 2015
I really loved Gavin, especially the protectiveness in him for Colette, "nay, there must be another way.” Gavin closed his eyes and bowed his head so that his forehead touched hers. “I canna lose ye. I canna watch ye wed another." I mean he was really protective and I found it sexy, "Gavin swept her into his arms. “Are ye hurt? Did he touch ye? If he touched ye, I’ll kill the ***tard, prisoner or no." I liked this book, action, adventure, love, and surprises.
June 22, 2018
This was the first book by Amanda Forester for me, and I loved it! The writing was beautiful, and the narrator was captivating.
Sir Gavin is a very young man with quite a lot of character. Although I don't typically fancy a twenty-two-year-old hero, he was perfect.
Lady Collette has so many good qualities within her, but she is also conditioned for very specific behavior.
I appreciated the change in point of view from him to her and back, so I could gain insights to each of their internal thought processes.
I have already immediately moved on to the second book in the series! Unless a future book causes me to change my mind, I plan to put every book by this author on my to be read pile.
Sir Gavin is a very young man with quite a lot of character. Although I don't typically fancy a twenty-two-year-old hero, he was perfect.
Lady Collette has so many good qualities within her, but she is also conditioned for very specific behavior.
I appreciated the change in point of view from him to her and back, so I could gain insights to each of their internal thought processes.
I have already immediately moved on to the second book in the series! Unless a future book causes me to change my mind, I plan to put every book by this author on my to be read pile.
January 9, 2020
(late late review added) Mostly listened too because Mary Jane Wells narrated it. Which she did perfectly as usual. But I I hardly remember the story. I remember being slightly underwhelmed over all, but it was cute story.
August 31, 2015
There are something like a million books out there (ok, I’m exaggerating, but there are a lot) that share the title or some variation of The Highlander’s Bride. We like our Scottish heroes and imagining what’s under—or not under—their kilts. Come on now, Gerard Butler? Richard Madden? Sam Heughan? Kevin McKidd? *fans herself* So highlanders and their stubborn brides abound. It’s almost its own genre. I admit that I didn’t expect much from Amanda Forester’s version of this historical romance category, but I was very pleasantly surprised. The Highlander’s Bride was, in a word, charming.
Our Highlander in this case is Sir Gavin Patrick. Think of Richard Madden now and sigh. Picture him as your personal guard, spending his every waking moment trying to protect and take care of you.
He is a knight of the highest moral character. His only flaw is that always doing the right thing often means he’s in the middle of conflict, trying to right wrongs, fulfill duty, and keep his word. In The Highlander’s Bride, Gavin’s duty is to see the Lady Marie Collette and her substantial dowry safely to Scotland and deliver her to the contractual fiancé her father has chosen for her. This is the entire plot of the book. You don’t need to read it to know what the main struggle is going to be. For its simplicity, I normally wouldn’t even consider handing out an A+ rating, but Forester surprised me. Gavin is only human, and the lengths to which he goes in trying to do the right thing made him entirely endearing. I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but my favorite moment in this book involved rope and a cold, wet night. It was worthy of an award because in a predictable storyline, I didn’t see that particular moment coming.
It would be easy not to like Collette. She’s been raised as the daughter of nobility that she is, and she most definitely makes Gavin’s life difficult. However, Forester deftly justifies her words and behavior. She is a stubborn charge, but in the feisty, likable tradition of Maureen O’Hara, Sandra Bullock, and Julia Stiles. She was sympathetic, not whiny and annoying. With two such captivating main characters, I wanted to take the journey to Scotland with them.
It was a rocky journey with thieves, enemy soldiers, war lords, madams, orphans, ladies-in-waiting, and elaborate 14th century costumes. Still, it was more love story than rollicking adventure, more 1930’s old Hollywood, less Game of Thrones.
There is some sex along the way which is not overly graphic, for me it rated a two-and-a-half on a scale of one-to-five. It is, however, intense because of the circumstances and who these two characters want to be. There was nothing gratuitous and it felt appropriate to the storyline.
My only criticism is that a third point of view was introduced about a quarter of the way in, that of Pippa. Pippa is a seventeen year old orphan who has been in the suspect care of a whore house madam. Gavin rescues her from this situation and her perspective is oddly tossed in periodically to provide commentary on the star-crossed lovers. She doesn’t do much to move the plot forward, but rather is mostly along for the ride. She seemed out-of-place to me. Since this is book one in the series, I was hoping Forester intended to make her the focus of a future installment, justifying the inclusion of her POV, but her situation seems to be wrapped up and done much too abruptly right in the last chapter. She still could have a story going forward from that point, it would simply be unconventional. That’s not necessarily a bad thing. Let’s hope.
Is this an A+ written book? No. So why am I giving it an A+ rating? Perhaps it was timing—I’ve been reading a lot of contemporary and classics lately. I just really liked this book. I was charmed. Today is my birthday. Perhaps I’m feeling generous, but reading The Highlander’s Bride was a gift to myself. As we head into fall, this is definitely a sweet, rainy day read.
Read this review and others on "That's What I'm Talking About" http://twimom227.com/2015/08/review-t...
Our Highlander in this case is Sir Gavin Patrick. Think of Richard Madden now and sigh. Picture him as your personal guard, spending his every waking moment trying to protect and take care of you.
He is a knight of the highest moral character. His only flaw is that always doing the right thing often means he’s in the middle of conflict, trying to right wrongs, fulfill duty, and keep his word. In The Highlander’s Bride, Gavin’s duty is to see the Lady Marie Collette and her substantial dowry safely to Scotland and deliver her to the contractual fiancé her father has chosen for her. This is the entire plot of the book. You don’t need to read it to know what the main struggle is going to be. For its simplicity, I normally wouldn’t even consider handing out an A+ rating, but Forester surprised me. Gavin is only human, and the lengths to which he goes in trying to do the right thing made him entirely endearing. I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but my favorite moment in this book involved rope and a cold, wet night. It was worthy of an award because in a predictable storyline, I didn’t see that particular moment coming.
It would be easy not to like Collette. She’s been raised as the daughter of nobility that she is, and she most definitely makes Gavin’s life difficult. However, Forester deftly justifies her words and behavior. She is a stubborn charge, but in the feisty, likable tradition of Maureen O’Hara, Sandra Bullock, and Julia Stiles. She was sympathetic, not whiny and annoying. With two such captivating main characters, I wanted to take the journey to Scotland with them.
It was a rocky journey with thieves, enemy soldiers, war lords, madams, orphans, ladies-in-waiting, and elaborate 14th century costumes. Still, it was more love story than rollicking adventure, more 1930’s old Hollywood, less Game of Thrones.
There is some sex along the way which is not overly graphic, for me it rated a two-and-a-half on a scale of one-to-five. It is, however, intense because of the circumstances and who these two characters want to be. There was nothing gratuitous and it felt appropriate to the storyline.
My only criticism is that a third point of view was introduced about a quarter of the way in, that of Pippa. Pippa is a seventeen year old orphan who has been in the suspect care of a whore house madam. Gavin rescues her from this situation and her perspective is oddly tossed in periodically to provide commentary on the star-crossed lovers. She doesn’t do much to move the plot forward, but rather is mostly along for the ride. She seemed out-of-place to me. Since this is book one in the series, I was hoping Forester intended to make her the focus of a future installment, justifying the inclusion of her POV, but her situation seems to be wrapped up and done much too abruptly right in the last chapter. She still could have a story going forward from that point, it would simply be unconventional. That’s not necessarily a bad thing. Let’s hope.
Is this an A+ written book? No. So why am I giving it an A+ rating? Perhaps it was timing—I’ve been reading a lot of contemporary and classics lately. I just really liked this book. I was charmed. Today is my birthday. Perhaps I’m feeling generous, but reading The Highlander’s Bride was a gift to myself. As we head into fall, this is definitely a sweet, rainy day read.
Read this review and others on "That's What I'm Talking About" http://twimom227.com/2015/08/review-t...
September 15, 2015
This isn't presented as Christian fiction, but it kinda is. I say "kinda" because while Scripture quotes and prayer and statements of faith are salted all through the book, there are also some PG13-R scenes that are likely too racy to pass editorial standards at a traditional Christian press. Personally I think those standards are unnecessarily strict, but I know there are readers who prefer their reading material to be squeaky clean, and I'm glad there are publishers who strive to provide that. Anyway, there was nothing to offend here, in my view--the Christian bits were mostly unobtrusive and appropriate in context, and shouldn't bother a secular reader (except those who get all cranky over the mere idea that some people believe in God). Fact is, in the historical period presented here, daily life was very centered around church and practice of faith, and while the Christianity presented here resembles 21st Century Protestantism a bit more than Medieval Catholicism, I rather like the fact that the church and faith are not totally ignored, as too often happens in supposedly "historical" books. As for the sex, if you've spent much time studying the Song of Songs, or considering some of the things that happen in the OT, what's here shouldn't bother you.
The heroine, Marie Colette (cuz every Frenchwoman in those days was Marie Something) has been betrothed by her father to a Scottish Highland baron--in exchange for her rich dowry, the baron is sending soldiers to help her father fight the English. Her father kind of suckers recently knighted Gavin Patrick to escort her to her intended. The journey is perilous, especially since the English have heard of the beautiful heiress who is traveling through the area, and they're after her and the ridiculous cartloads of goodies she insists on bringing along (seriously--why didn't anybody suggest that some of the stuff could stay behind and follow when the roads weren't quite so hazardous?).
It doesn't help that Gavin and Colette inevitably fall in love. There is enough going on to keep the pages turning, but somehow I didn't feel all that invested in the love story--maybe the characters' constantly conflicted feelings caused that problem.
I'll give it 3 stars.
The heroine, Marie Colette (cuz every Frenchwoman in those days was Marie Something) has been betrothed by her father to a Scottish Highland baron--in exchange for her rich dowry, the baron is sending soldiers to help her father fight the English. Her father kind of suckers recently knighted Gavin Patrick to escort her to her intended. The journey is perilous, especially since the English have heard of the beautiful heiress who is traveling through the area, and they're after her and the ridiculous cartloads of goodies she insists on bringing along (seriously--why didn't anybody suggest that some of the stuff could stay behind and follow when the roads weren't quite so hazardous?).
It doesn't help that Gavin and Colette inevitably fall in love. There is enough going on to keep the pages turning, but somehow I didn't feel all that invested in the love story--maybe the characters' constantly conflicted feelings caused that problem.
I'll give it 3 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 23, 2015
I really enjoy Amanda Forester's novels and I also enjoy novels that feature Highlanders as the hero, but for some reason this one just didn't do anything for me. Gavin was ok, but I felt more could have been done to explore (and explain!) his backstory. Collette was a little blah. I understand she's been very strictly raised to present a certain image to her father's people, but this in turn made her boring and cold. Even the secondary cast, while interesting in theory, merely seemed to fill the plot-point-of-the-moment. Which is the unifying issue with this novel.
First, there isn't much conflict to speak of. Gavin and Collette must travel to Scotland where Collette's affianced husband awaits her dowry. That's it. That's the big "problem" of the novel and the rest simply centers around their journey. The sole emotional conflict is Gavin and Collette trying to come up with five hundred and one excuses why they can't be together. Which I realize this is a typical part of most romance novels, but it should never be the *only* emotional conflict.
Secondly - and this is the big sticking point with me - Gavin, Collette, and many other's characters' actions seemed to do little else than fulfill whatever was needed to make that scene's plot point happen. There are numerous times throughout this novel where a character, usually Collette, is speaking vehemently against "point A." Then another character will show up and make a flimsy case for "point A." Suddenly, the first character has changed their mind and is now a firm supporter of "point A." A more specific example: Collette and one of her maids Pippa need to hide in the woods while Gavin explores a castle. So, of course, this means that the baby which hasn't been mentioned for five chapters will suddenly begin screaming for no apparent reason, drawing the enemy.
And finally, what small conflicts do present throughout the book are solved by something or something that "just so happened" to be close by. Collette needs to escape from the tower? Let's introduce the warlord's son who just so happens to be locked in the tower as well and has a working knowledge of engineering. Collette's affianced husband, who has been the primary stumbling block for Gavin and Collette's HEA, just so happens to prefer to marry Collette's maid whom he just met and the two are married immediately.
In conclusion, I never began to really care for Collette and Gavin, so I never began to care for their "problems." When added to a plot that is just too far over the line of ridiculous and convenient, I'm left feeling both bored and cheated. I'm hoping it is a fluke because Ms. Forester's books are usually much better than this.
Originally posted at Plot Twist Reviews [dot] Com
I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
First, there isn't much conflict to speak of. Gavin and Collette must travel to Scotland where Collette's affianced husband awaits her dowry. That's it. That's the big "problem" of the novel and the rest simply centers around their journey. The sole emotional conflict is Gavin and Collette trying to come up with five hundred and one excuses why they can't be together. Which I realize this is a typical part of most romance novels, but it should never be the *only* emotional conflict.
Secondly - and this is the big sticking point with me - Gavin, Collette, and many other's characters' actions seemed to do little else than fulfill whatever was needed to make that scene's plot point happen. There are numerous times throughout this novel where a character, usually Collette, is speaking vehemently against "point A." Then another character will show up and make a flimsy case for "point A." Suddenly, the first character has changed their mind and is now a firm supporter of "point A." A more specific example: Collette and one of her maids Pippa need to hide in the woods while Gavin explores a castle. So, of course, this means that the baby which hasn't been mentioned for five chapters will suddenly begin screaming for no apparent reason, drawing the enemy.
And finally, what small conflicts do present throughout the book are solved by something or something that "just so happened" to be close by. Collette needs to escape from the tower? Let's introduce the warlord's son who just so happens to be locked in the tower as well and has a working knowledge of engineering. Collette's affianced husband, who has been the primary stumbling block for Gavin and Collette's HEA, just so happens to prefer to marry Collette's maid whom he just met and the two are married immediately.
In conclusion, I never began to really care for Collette and Gavin, so I never began to care for their "problems." When added to a plot that is just too far over the line of ridiculous and convenient, I'm left feeling both bored and cheated. I'm hoping it is a fluke because Ms. Forester's books are usually much better than this.
Originally posted at Plot Twist Reviews [dot] Com
I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
July 22, 2015
Confession time... The Highlander's Bride was my first experience with historical romance (unless you count paranormal with centuries old vampires). Quite honestly, I'm not sure what was holding me back from giving historical a try but I'm so glad I did!
Obviously I have nothing to compare The Highlander's Bride to when it comes to the historical factor but it definitely sucked me in and I couldn't put it down until Gavin and Colette got their HEA. The writing did take a little while to get used to and some of the words had me breaking out the dictionary but once I got past my initial awkwardness I absolutely loved this one.
While Gavin is fighting on the battlefield he rescues a man who then invites him to dinner as a thank you to Gavin for saving his life. It is at this dinner that he meets Colette and is instantly enamored by her beauty. After dinner, Colette's father presents her to Gavin and they both assume that he's offering her as Gavin's bride as a thank you for saving his life... Only that's not exactly what her father had in mind.
Colette doesn't want to leave her home and people in France but as the only daughter of the duc de Bergerac it's her duty to marry off to help her father. Their journey to the Highland's to Colette's fiancee (who isn't Gavin) definitely starts off rocky and leaves Gavin and Colette thinking the worst of each other but when push comes to shove they realize that they underestimated each other.
I absolutely loved both Colette and Gavin. Colette was raised to present herself a certain way but Gavin manages to push past all her defenses and see the real Colette behind the perfect facade. Oh Gavin... If I found a Highlander like Gavin I would never let him go. He's protective with a huge heart and isn't afraid to fight for what he wants... Absolutely perfect!
These two, along with their traveling companions, definitely face some obstacles along the way and for a while there I didn't know how they were going to make it. Between thieves trying to steal Colette's dowry, picking up a few orphans along the way, the English invading towns and trying to find Colette in the process, and the storm that nobody thought they'd survive, I was definitely on the edge of my seat wondering how everything was going to work out.
The Highlander's Bride was a great read with a perfect, slow-building forbidden romance and I couldn't be happier with my intro in historical romance. Can't wait for the next book in the series!
*ARC kindly provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Obviously I have nothing to compare The Highlander's Bride to when it comes to the historical factor but it definitely sucked me in and I couldn't put it down until Gavin and Colette got their HEA. The writing did take a little while to get used to and some of the words had me breaking out the dictionary but once I got past my initial awkwardness I absolutely loved this one.
While Gavin is fighting on the battlefield he rescues a man who then invites him to dinner as a thank you to Gavin for saving his life. It is at this dinner that he meets Colette and is instantly enamored by her beauty. After dinner, Colette's father presents her to Gavin and they both assume that he's offering her as Gavin's bride as a thank you for saving his life... Only that's not exactly what her father had in mind.
Colette doesn't want to leave her home and people in France but as the only daughter of the duc de Bergerac it's her duty to marry off to help her father. Their journey to the Highland's to Colette's fiancee (who isn't Gavin) definitely starts off rocky and leaves Gavin and Colette thinking the worst of each other but when push comes to shove they realize that they underestimated each other.
I absolutely loved both Colette and Gavin. Colette was raised to present herself a certain way but Gavin manages to push past all her defenses and see the real Colette behind the perfect facade. Oh Gavin... If I found a Highlander like Gavin I would never let him go. He's protective with a huge heart and isn't afraid to fight for what he wants... Absolutely perfect!
These two, along with their traveling companions, definitely face some obstacles along the way and for a while there I didn't know how they were going to make it. Between thieves trying to steal Colette's dowry, picking up a few orphans along the way, the English invading towns and trying to find Colette in the process, and the storm that nobody thought they'd survive, I was definitely on the edge of my seat wondering how everything was going to work out.
The Highlander's Bride was a great read with a perfect, slow-building forbidden romance and I couldn't be happier with my intro in historical romance. Can't wait for the next book in the series!
*ARC kindly provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 29, 2018
The Highlander’s Bride by Amanda Forester
Narrated by Mary Jane Wells
Series: Highland Trouble Book 1
4 Stars - I picked up this book because it was narrated by Mary Jane Wells. She is a favourite of mine and in this story she did not disappoint. I enjoyed the chemistry and banter between Gavin and Colette. The story was well written and ran smoothly. The secondary characters were fully developed and a wonderful addition. I have not read this author before, but I will be sure to look for her back list. It was great to visit the highlands again… I feel like it's been a while!
~Paragraphs and Petticoats~
Narrated by Mary Jane Wells
Series: Highland Trouble Book 1
4 Stars - I picked up this book because it was narrated by Mary Jane Wells. She is a favourite of mine and in this story she did not disappoint. I enjoyed the chemistry and banter between Gavin and Colette. The story was well written and ran smoothly. The secondary characters were fully developed and a wonderful addition. I have not read this author before, but I will be sure to look for her back list. It was great to visit the highlands again… I feel like it's been a while!
~Paragraphs and Petticoats~
August 23, 2015
ARC REVIEW TO COME
September 28, 2023
Mary Jane Wells masterclass as usual! This was a fun road trip medieval romance. The heroine was understandably very haughty, but her humor was gradually revealed (MJW’s narration picked up on the sarcasm) and I really liked her. The hero was kind and golden retriever personality, and he had a couple of nice development moments. Cute secondary romance tacked on at the end too. Would recommend if you’re looking for a historical with great audio!
January 19, 2022
this book was definitely the best read i have had in a while, and would definitely recommend it for anyone.
there’s action, and at some points i even laughed and was totally not expecting that hahah, it was so good.
there’s action, and at some points i even laughed and was totally not expecting that hahah, it was so good.
Read
December 30, 2021Great audiobook narration by Mary Jane Wells, for this historical romance. I enjoyed the novel’s setting, with the long journey and the Scottish highlands, as well as the side characters that got picked up along the way.
August 31, 2015
I totally got sucked in by this cover. I can't point to one thing that sticks out, but it just caught my eye and put me in the mood for a story about a man in a kilt. Yum.
In the midst of fighting among the French and English, Sir Gavin Patrick (a Highland mercenary) saves the life of the duc de Bergerac. In thanks for this great feat, the duc decides that his daughter, Marie Colette, shall be given over to Gavin... to be escorted to her betrothed in Scotland. Tricky duke, tricky. I'm so glad we don't have to deal with these issues today as I don't think I could go through with marrying some unknown stranger who is likely an old man shopping for a young wife.
Marie Colette is a renowned beauty, and she has been strictly raised to be seen and not heard, and to serve her father in the only way a daughter can - with her beauty, poise and decorum. Colette has been raised by her four ladies maids who are all approximately twice her age. They constantly chastise Colette and she is never allowed any freedom or spark of life. I cannot imagine a life such as this and my heart went out to Colette because she must have been screaming on the inside. I mean good grief, she wasn't allowed to laugh or show any facial expression! I definitely don't have the temperament to deal with that! Colette's greatest desire in all the world is freedom, but she remains steadfast in her duty to her father and people to travel to a new land and marry the unknown Baron Kintail.
Sir Gavin is instantly struck dumb by Colette's beauty. Though her decorous behavior quickly leads him to believe that she is cold and unfeeling. However once Gavin and Colette set out on their adventure, their growing attraction is hard to fight. Sir Gavin sees the strength and character beneath Colette's beauty and his honest admiration of something other than her looks is something new for Colette. I quite liked Gavin - he was protective, honorable, and not afraid to voice his feelings. The struggle between duty and emotion was felt by Gavin and Colette in different ways - but both were deeply troubled by their situation. While Gavin was trying to push past all Colette's defenses, she was worming her way into his heart.
Fate and religion played a great role in this story - the perils of the journey that brought the couple closer and closer together were well-written and integrated into the plot quite well. And the religion aspect was subtle and well-placed with a few prayers, and the Book of Hours (the story of which is included in an author's note at the end). While I don't usually read romance books with undertones in religion, this one was not overpowering so I didn't mind.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. 4 stars / 2 flames.
In the midst of fighting among the French and English, Sir Gavin Patrick (a Highland mercenary) saves the life of the duc de Bergerac. In thanks for this great feat, the duc decides that his daughter, Marie Colette, shall be given over to Gavin... to be escorted to her betrothed in Scotland. Tricky duke, tricky. I'm so glad we don't have to deal with these issues today as I don't think I could go through with marrying some unknown stranger who is likely an old man shopping for a young wife.
Marie Colette is a renowned beauty, and she has been strictly raised to be seen and not heard, and to serve her father in the only way a daughter can - with her beauty, poise and decorum. Colette has been raised by her four ladies maids who are all approximately twice her age. They constantly chastise Colette and she is never allowed any freedom or spark of life. I cannot imagine a life such as this and my heart went out to Colette because she must have been screaming on the inside. I mean good grief, she wasn't allowed to laugh or show any facial expression! I definitely don't have the temperament to deal with that! Colette's greatest desire in all the world is freedom, but she remains steadfast in her duty to her father and people to travel to a new land and marry the unknown Baron Kintail.
Sir Gavin is instantly struck dumb by Colette's beauty. Though her decorous behavior quickly leads him to believe that she is cold and unfeeling. However once Gavin and Colette set out on their adventure, their growing attraction is hard to fight. Sir Gavin sees the strength and character beneath Colette's beauty and his honest admiration of something other than her looks is something new for Colette. I quite liked Gavin - he was protective, honorable, and not afraid to voice his feelings. The struggle between duty and emotion was felt by Gavin and Colette in different ways - but both were deeply troubled by their situation. While Gavin was trying to push past all Colette's defenses, she was worming her way into his heart.
Fate and religion played a great role in this story - the perils of the journey that brought the couple closer and closer together were well-written and integrated into the plot quite well. And the religion aspect was subtle and well-placed with a few prayers, and the Book of Hours (the story of which is included in an author's note at the end). While I don't usually read romance books with undertones in religion, this one was not overpowering so I didn't mind.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. 4 stars / 2 flames.
August 25, 2015
I was absolutely elated when I discovered an historical fiction novel including the MacLaren Clan, my husband’s ancestral lineage!
The author immediately pulled me in with a ferocious battle, holding me captive with superb writing throughout. Gavin and Lady Marie Collette are wonderful characters who exemplify the truest forms of hero and heroine. As each contributes to better their situation, they become closer and more trustful of one another. After a series of unusual events, the lines of proprieties and honor become blurred. With an extraordinary cast of secondary characters, the two try to keep their wits, and their hearts, until they reach the Highland shores.
I loved this book! The cover is gorgeous, the story line is brilliant, and the characters are perfectly written. Although it’s a concept in which most are familiar, the extras give this novel a great boost. Sensual scenes are tasteful, with a touch of naughty, and earned. The use of a medieval religious book was a pleasant perk, as was the author’s note giving more background. The ending wrapped everything up beautifully, and I look forward to reading more from this wonderful author!
I highly recommend for all lovers of the genre!
I was gifted an eArc via Netgalley per Sourcebooks Casablanca, in exchange for an honest review.
The author immediately pulled me in with a ferocious battle, holding me captive with superb writing throughout. Gavin and Lady Marie Collette are wonderful characters who exemplify the truest forms of hero and heroine. As each contributes to better their situation, they become closer and more trustful of one another. After a series of unusual events, the lines of proprieties and honor become blurred. With an extraordinary cast of secondary characters, the two try to keep their wits, and their hearts, until they reach the Highland shores.
I loved this book! The cover is gorgeous, the story line is brilliant, and the characters are perfectly written. Although it’s a concept in which most are familiar, the extras give this novel a great boost. Sensual scenes are tasteful, with a touch of naughty, and earned. The use of a medieval religious book was a pleasant perk, as was the author’s note giving more background. The ending wrapped everything up beautifully, and I look forward to reading more from this wonderful author!
I highly recommend for all lovers of the genre!
I was gifted an eArc via Netgalley per Sourcebooks Casablanca, in exchange for an honest review.
January 14, 2017
Highland Writing in Trouble
Let me preface this review by stating that I love historical novels, particularly historical romance novels set in Scotland. That said, I struggled to get through this one despite a promising plot. Aside from the substandard writing, I was especially put off by the multitude of grammatical errors, typos, subject/predicate disagreement, incorrect verb tenses, and the frequent use of double subjects in the dialogue (perhaps intended to be an affectation of french speakers of English as a 2nd language?) Some examples that really bugged me were; hurling vs. hurtling, gentile vs. genteel, challis vs. chalice, censor vs. censure, and cantor vs canter. And I mustn't forget to note the use of "concussed" - the irregular use of "concussion" a term that originated in the 16th century, 200 years later than the setting in this book, which is 14th century. The same goes for the usage of "stuff" to denote personal belongings - not in use in 14th century in that context. This book badly needed a better copy editor.
Let me preface this review by stating that I love historical novels, particularly historical romance novels set in Scotland. That said, I struggled to get through this one despite a promising plot. Aside from the substandard writing, I was especially put off by the multitude of grammatical errors, typos, subject/predicate disagreement, incorrect verb tenses, and the frequent use of double subjects in the dialogue (perhaps intended to be an affectation of french speakers of English as a 2nd language?) Some examples that really bugged me were; hurling vs. hurtling, gentile vs. genteel, challis vs. chalice, censor vs. censure, and cantor vs canter. And I mustn't forget to note the use of "concussed" - the irregular use of "concussion" a term that originated in the 16th century, 200 years later than the setting in this book, which is 14th century. The same goes for the usage of "stuff" to denote personal belongings - not in use in 14th century in that context. This book badly needed a better copy editor.
February 1, 2017
This is the first story in Highland Trouble series and I found it very easy to read. The characters were well written, plot a bit simplistic and romance sweet and tender.
But what this author does best is bring Highland history to life and that’s been the draw for me. She weaves historical facts and fiction seamlessly and forces the reader to live alongside the people of the world she creates.
If you’ve ever wondered about Hundred Years War, and the sides that fought it, you’ll learn about it in this story. You’ll also get to know our hero, who was one of those Alpha males that were true to their calling and his devotion to it was admirable. I thoroughly enjoyed his dilemma and was chuckling all through the story.
It took me a bit longer to warm up to the heroine, but as the story developed, so was her true nature and by the end of the story I liked her and whole heartedly approved of her character.
Whether you’re into men in kilts or not, I promise that you’ll love this story.
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
But what this author does best is bring Highland history to life and that’s been the draw for me. She weaves historical facts and fiction seamlessly and forces the reader to live alongside the people of the world she creates.
If you’ve ever wondered about Hundred Years War, and the sides that fought it, you’ll learn about it in this story. You’ll also get to know our hero, who was one of those Alpha males that were true to their calling and his devotion to it was admirable. I thoroughly enjoyed his dilemma and was chuckling all through the story.
It took me a bit longer to warm up to the heroine, but as the story developed, so was her true nature and by the end of the story I liked her and whole heartedly approved of her character.
Whether you’re into men in kilts or not, I promise that you’ll love this story.
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
June 9, 2015
This was a book that I seriously considered putting down within a chapter or two....I don't like a bunch of religious quotes or other political content in fiction.
BUT I can say while there were a bunch of quotes especially in the beginning....it is not that far from what you might expect in the time and setting.
I'm not saying that If there were NO bible quotes or pages of prayers I would have loved this book. There were a few sections that made no sense...it was overly perfect...something most readers will let go. The only issue I has was how easy the end was for everyone.
The romance is sensual, not sexual, but that is perfectly okay. Goes back to the religious overtones.
The story was sweet and romantic. The religion was just the wrong mix of historically inaccurate (the prayers and quotes were more modern Protestant than middle age Catholic) and too forceful IMHO.
BUT I can say while there were a bunch of quotes especially in the beginning....it is not that far from what you might expect in the time and setting.
I'm not saying that If there were NO bible quotes or pages of prayers I would have loved this book. There were a few sections that made no sense...it was overly perfect...something most readers will let go. The only issue I has was how easy the end was for everyone.
The romance is sensual, not sexual, but that is perfectly okay. Goes back to the religious overtones.
The story was sweet and romantic. The religion was just the wrong mix of historically inaccurate (the prayers and quotes were more modern Protestant than middle age Catholic) and too forceful IMHO.
August 20, 2015
The Highlander's Bride is the first in the Highland Trouble series. I found this book to be just OK, which was truly disappointing for me as I have enjoyed Amanda Forester books in the past. Gavin and Colette's attraction for each other grows with the pages. But what can happen, does. Sadly, there were no shocking plot twists. Everything that happens to the couple during their journey is expected and seen from far off. I almost DNF'd this book but I simply hate a book to beat me. All-in-all I found this to be a blasé book that should not have been.
I received this ARC from Netgalley for my honest review.
I received this ARC from Netgalley for my honest review.
January 3, 2020
For the first half or more of this book, it was difficult to like Colette. Her upbringing had bred the humanity out of her to the point that she was just an ornament to be seen & not heard. Not her fault, but she didn’t make for a sexy siren or a warm & fuzzy character.
Her maids were totally annoying, controlling her in every way. I almost gave up by this point. But, once they were out of the picture, the storyline picked up it’s pace.
The romance was just wishful thinking until the last quarter, then got shut down again. Ugh.
I hate to give any romance less than 3 stars, but this one is not one that I would ever read again.
Her maids were totally annoying, controlling her in every way. I almost gave up by this point. But, once they were out of the picture, the storyline picked up it’s pace.
The romance was just wishful thinking until the last quarter, then got shut down again. Ugh.
I hate to give any romance less than 3 stars, but this one is not one that I would ever read again.
January 13, 2016
I have had this book sitting on my bookshelf so long I was afraid it would fill with dust... Today I finally took it off the shelf to read. I am a sucker for Highlander stories... it makes me want to learn more about my heritage (if I am part scottish or russian or indian... anything like that). Amanda captured me on the first page, on the first sentence, more like on the first word. There are no words to describe how much I truly enjoyed this story and can't wait to read more by Amanda.
March 5, 2019
3.5* for this lovely little light audible listen while I was doing way too many other things. I chose the book because Mary Jane Wells was the narrator and again she did not disappoint.
Cute couple - very clean romance. There are some unique but silly story elements; however, the humorous dialogue between the two MCs and the presence irascible and impudent Pippa was a win for me.
Cute couple - very clean romance. There are some unique but silly story elements; however, the humorous dialogue between the two MCs and the presence irascible and impudent Pippa was a win for me.
June 13, 2015
Not believable. In a massive storm that tosses them around but not a baby in a hammock. Kept my attention for awhile but the characters seemed a bit shallow.
June 23, 2023
Anyone else worried that the baby got shaken baby syndrome while riding out a storm on a boat in a hammock?
March 10, 2025
So much fun!
This cover is to die for. The shimmery colors, so lush, it immediately grabbed my attention. Plus, I'm always in the mood for a story about a man in a kilt.
In the midst of fighting among the French and English, Sir Gavin Patrick (a Highland mercenary) saves the life of the duc de Bergerac - as in Cyrino. In thanks for this, the duc decides that his daughter, Marie Colette, should be given over to Gavin... to be escorted to her betrothed in Scotland.
Marie Colette is a renowned beauty, and she has been strictly raised to be seen and not heard, and to serve her father in the only way a daughter can - with her beauty, poise and decorum.
Gavin is instantly struck dumb by Colette's beauty. Though her decorous behavior quickly leads him to believe that she is cold and unfeeling. However once Gavin and Colette set out on their adventure, their growing attraction is hard to fight. Sir Gavin sees the strength and character beneath Colette's beauty and his honest admiration of something other than her looks is something new for Colette.
I liked both of our leads - Gavin was protective, honorable, and not afraid to voice his feelings. The struggle between duty and emotion was felt by Gavin and Colette in different ways - but both were deeply troubled by their situation. While Gavin was trying to push past all Colette's defenses, she was worming her way into his heart. Colette was also strong willed and compelling, there was a lot of character growth throughout.
Fate and religion played a great role in this story - the perils of the journey that brought the couple closer and closer together were well-written and integrated into the plot quite well. And the religion aspect was subtle and well-placed with a few prayers, and the Book of Hours (the story of which is included in an author's note at the end).
I also really liked how the author wove in the complicated history between France and Scotland.
This cover is to die for. The shimmery colors, so lush, it immediately grabbed my attention. Plus, I'm always in the mood for a story about a man in a kilt.
In the midst of fighting among the French and English, Sir Gavin Patrick (a Highland mercenary) saves the life of the duc de Bergerac - as in Cyrino. In thanks for this, the duc decides that his daughter, Marie Colette, should be given over to Gavin... to be escorted to her betrothed in Scotland.
Marie Colette is a renowned beauty, and she has been strictly raised to be seen and not heard, and to serve her father in the only way a daughter can - with her beauty, poise and decorum.
Gavin is instantly struck dumb by Colette's beauty. Though her decorous behavior quickly leads him to believe that she is cold and unfeeling. However once Gavin and Colette set out on their adventure, their growing attraction is hard to fight. Sir Gavin sees the strength and character beneath Colette's beauty and his honest admiration of something other than her looks is something new for Colette.
I liked both of our leads - Gavin was protective, honorable, and not afraid to voice his feelings. The struggle between duty and emotion was felt by Gavin and Colette in different ways - but both were deeply troubled by their situation. While Gavin was trying to push past all Colette's defenses, she was worming her way into his heart. Colette was also strong willed and compelling, there was a lot of character growth throughout.
Fate and religion played a great role in this story - the perils of the journey that brought the couple closer and closer together were well-written and integrated into the plot quite well. And the religion aspect was subtle and well-placed with a few prayers, and the Book of Hours (the story of which is included in an author's note at the end).
I also really liked how the author wove in the complicated history between France and Scotland.
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