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Marriage Mart Mayhem #5
The Highlander's Choice
The Scottish Highlands, 1815
Lady Sybil Lacey is every inch an English woman. She's horrified her best friend is wedding a barbarian Scot. For aren't Scots naught but brutish, whiskey-swilling lechers? So to find herself secretly attracted to the tall and devastatingly handsome Scottish laird of Bedlay Castle is quite disconcerting...
Liam MacBride is convinced that English ladies are silly sassenachs who think of nothing but social events and clothes. So why is he intensely drawn to Lady Sybil? All they do is quarrel . . . until loathing turns into undeniable lust.
A tempestuous, fiery romance between an English lady and a Scottish laird cannot end well.
Lady Sybil Lacey is every inch an English woman. She's horrified her best friend is wedding a barbarian Scot. For aren't Scots naught but brutish, whiskey-swilling lechers? So to find herself secretly attracted to the tall and devastatingly handsome Scottish laird of Bedlay Castle is quite disconcerting...
Liam MacBride is convinced that English ladies are silly sassenachs who think of nothing but social events and clothes. So why is he intensely drawn to Lady Sybil? All they do is quarrel . . . until loathing turns into undeniable lust.
A tempestuous, fiery romance between an English lady and a Scottish laird cannot end well.
246 pages, Paperback
First published July 14, 2015
109 people are currently reading
1033 people want to read
About the author
Callie Hutton
148 books1,441 followershttp://calliehutton.com/newsletter/ (receive a free book for signing up and be up to date on new releases and sales)
Hi Romance Fans,
My historical romances are full of heat, humor, and quirky characters. I’ve always loved history, which was my college major. Things of the past fascinate me. Not those boring history classes in high school, but the history of people. How they lived their lives, what they ate, what they wore, the challenges they faced, what they worried about.
I have recently delved into Historical Cozy Mysteries. My very first one, For the Love of the Baron, a Historical Romantic Suspense novella, spurred me to try a full length, non-romance focused cozy mystery. A Study in Murder released last year from Crooked Lane Publishing, and the reviews have been excellent. The second book, The Sign of Death, released this year and the next book, The Mystery of Albert E. Finch will release in January of 2022.
I've also been busy keeping up with my Regency/Victorian romances. Check out my latest series, The Rose Room Rogues. Four brothers who own a gambling club and find themselves caught in the net of love.
Watch for my new Highlander series, The Sutherlands of Dornoch. The first book in that series, To Deceive a Highlander, will release March 30th.
Take a look around my website and check out some of the books I write, and their lovely covers. www.calliehutton.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
June 9, 2022
I absolutely love it! I didn’t want to put it down till I finished it! 😍
July 6, 2015
There is so much to love about this book! The characters, the setting, the plot are all excellent! This could have been a novella, but the author takes the well laid out plan and takes the story through to a complete ending.
Both lead characters have such strong preconceived ideas about what defines being ‘English’ and ‘Scottish’ that it was so fun to watch them realize just how wrong they are. Stereotypes exist today and we have all heard ones bandied about that never seem to make much sense. I will never forget going to the Canadian pavilion at Epcot at Disney World as a child and being utterly confused at all the people dressed up as lumberjacks. I have never met a lumberjack in my life, but it seems in the ‘80s that this was the stereotype about Canada. It is similar in this book. Sybil thinks all Scotsmen drink like fish, brawl all the time and swive anything that crosses their paths. Liam thinks that all Englishwomen are princesses and are wilting flowers.
Sybil is anything but a wilting flower. I loved her passion and her exuberance for life. She comes from an untraditional family and relishes the upbringing she has had. She delights in teaching Liam that English women are just as great as the Scots. At times, her English pride got in the way though.
Liam is just what everyone imagines a Laird to be. Strong, big and handsome with a twinkle in his eye. However, he rarely drinks, doesn’t fight and the only woman he wants in his bed is Sybil. I enjoyed the wooing Liam does to win Sybil. They get along on many levels.
The big misunderstanding has to do with those troublesome stereotypes and his mother. His mother is dreadful to Sybil, but I loved her pluck in the face of adversary. She could have broken so many times and ratted out his mother’s behaviour to Liam, but she won’t let his mother win the battle. To be honest, the conflict between Sybil and Liam’s mother was almost as much fun and entertaining as the relationship between the lovers.
Sybil’s family makes an appearance in the book, so if you have read the Marriage Mayhem series, you will enjoy catching up with them and learning about them from Sybil’s perspective.
This was a fun, fast read. I think it was fast because I was enjoying myself too much to put it down! A book that is definitely fun to lay out in the sun and read about the beautiful Highlands of Scotland.
Both lead characters have such strong preconceived ideas about what defines being ‘English’ and ‘Scottish’ that it was so fun to watch them realize just how wrong they are. Stereotypes exist today and we have all heard ones bandied about that never seem to make much sense. I will never forget going to the Canadian pavilion at Epcot at Disney World as a child and being utterly confused at all the people dressed up as lumberjacks. I have never met a lumberjack in my life, but it seems in the ‘80s that this was the stereotype about Canada. It is similar in this book. Sybil thinks all Scotsmen drink like fish, brawl all the time and swive anything that crosses their paths. Liam thinks that all Englishwomen are princesses and are wilting flowers.
Sybil is anything but a wilting flower. I loved her passion and her exuberance for life. She comes from an untraditional family and relishes the upbringing she has had. She delights in teaching Liam that English women are just as great as the Scots. At times, her English pride got in the way though.
Liam is just what everyone imagines a Laird to be. Strong, big and handsome with a twinkle in his eye. However, he rarely drinks, doesn’t fight and the only woman he wants in his bed is Sybil. I enjoyed the wooing Liam does to win Sybil. They get along on many levels.
The big misunderstanding has to do with those troublesome stereotypes and his mother. His mother is dreadful to Sybil, but I loved her pluck in the face of adversary. She could have broken so many times and ratted out his mother’s behaviour to Liam, but she won’t let his mother win the battle. To be honest, the conflict between Sybil and Liam’s mother was almost as much fun and entertaining as the relationship between the lovers.
Sybil’s family makes an appearance in the book, so if you have read the Marriage Mayhem series, you will enjoy catching up with them and learning about them from Sybil’s perspective.
This was a fun, fast read. I think it was fast because I was enjoying myself too much to put it down! A book that is definitely fun to lay out in the sun and read about the beautiful Highlands of Scotland.
September 12, 2021
3 stars, this book was pretty good overall. I liked the plot a lot, and I thought the hero and heroine were both very likable. However, there is something about this author’s writing style that doesn’t quite work for me. I feel a slight disconnect while reading her work… like I can’t fully immerse in the story. Not sure why exactly that is though. 🤷🏻♀️
One part of this book that turned me off was the first time that the hero and heroine were intimate. To me, it read like the hero took advantage of the heroine’s inexperience to complete the act, even though she wasn’t fully willing. It really didn’t seem fully consensual, and it was later swept under the rug as if it never happened.
Safety was fine in general, there’s a lot of mentions of all the OW the hero has been with in the past (no specifics but the constant reminders were just irritating and unnecessary). Heroine virgin, and hero definitely has gotten around. No others for either of them. TW: OM makes unwanted advances on the heroine
One part of this book that turned me off was the first time that the hero and heroine were intimate. To me, it read like the hero took advantage of the heroine’s inexperience to complete the act, even though she wasn’t fully willing. It really didn’t seem fully consensual, and it was later swept under the rug as if it never happened.
Safety was fine in general, there’s a lot of mentions of all the OW the hero has been with in the past (no specifics but the constant reminders were just irritating and unnecessary). Heroine virgin, and hero definitely has gotten around. No others for either of them. TW: OM makes unwanted advances on the heroine
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2022
I’m well and truly blown away.
This is my first historical romance in decades-yes decades! A random and unexpected read that I think I needed today.
Aside from sharing the same first name as the heroine 😅, I loved this story. It captured so much in an average length audiobook and the story felt true it’s time-ish.
I’m not a fan of 3rd person writing for Romance books but it was easy to get into and the narrator did an excellent job capturing the accents.
Since I don’t typically read historical romance, or maybe because I don’t 🤔, I find this story well paced with a plot that flowed. The early banter mixed with humour that turned the electric under current to heat 🥵 and enough angst and family drama to keep things interesting with being too much.
I highly recommend this title and I’m off to find more audiobooks in this series.
4.5 YER MINE STARS
5 STARS for AUDIOBOOK narration.
This is my first historical romance in decades-yes decades! A random and unexpected read that I think I needed today.
Aside from sharing the same first name as the heroine 😅, I loved this story. It captured so much in an average length audiobook and the story felt true it’s time-ish.
I’m not a fan of 3rd person writing for Romance books but it was easy to get into and the narrator did an excellent job capturing the accents.
Since I don’t typically read historical romance, or maybe because I don’t 🤔, I find this story well paced with a plot that flowed. The early banter mixed with humour that turned the electric under current to heat 🥵 and enough angst and family drama to keep things interesting with being too much.
I highly recommend this title and I’m off to find more audiobooks in this series.
4.5 YER MINE STARS
5 STARS for AUDIOBOOK narration.
May 31, 2022
Great Story!! 🥰
So glad I decided to read the first twin story after having read the 2nd twin story. This was so good. I absolutely loved the characters and storyline so much. Sybil and Liam and the babes. Loved it! 💜💜💜💜💜
So glad I decided to read the first twin story after having read the 2nd twin story. This was so good. I absolutely loved the characters and storyline so much. Sybil and Liam and the babes. Loved it! 💜💜💜💜💜
August 11, 2016
The Marriage Mart Mayhem series has been a hit or miss for me but Highlander's Choice was a Big Hit!!
Lady Sybil Lacey has traveled to Scotland with her best friend Lady Margaret Somerville. Lady Margaret is marrying The McKinnon Laird Duncan. Over the two weeks before the wedding Lady Sybil begins to overcome her prejudice and dislike of the Scottish people and there ways. She learns through her gradual romance with Liam MacBride The Laird of the MacBride clan that all she has heard about Scottish Lairds and Scottish people is not quite true. Liam has also has to overcome his prejudice of The English. His mother's intense hatred of anything English especially English titled Lady's has taught him to hate and pre judge the English. Until he meets and falls head over heals in love with Lady Sybil.
The Highlander's Choice touches on issues of prejudice and pre conceived notions passed on by parents about other people. This story is very well done and very moving. It is also, very well written with lively believable characters. I loved how all the myths that the H/H believed are proven to be ridiculous and what they had been taught to believe was based oh hateful people and family that hated people they didn't understand. Believe me I know a little of what the Scottish suffered at the hands of the British. So I do understand how the hatred on the Scottish side could happen. But Liam and Sybil overcome all of this. They are one of the best written couples I have read in awhile!!
The Romance between Liam and Sybil is lovely, sexy, sensual and believable. I loved both of these characters!!
I Highly Recommend The Highlander's Choice by Callie Hutton!!
Lady Sybil Lacey has traveled to Scotland with her best friend Lady Margaret Somerville. Lady Margaret is marrying The McKinnon Laird Duncan. Over the two weeks before the wedding Lady Sybil begins to overcome her prejudice and dislike of the Scottish people and there ways. She learns through her gradual romance with Liam MacBride The Laird of the MacBride clan that all she has heard about Scottish Lairds and Scottish people is not quite true. Liam has also has to overcome his prejudice of The English. His mother's intense hatred of anything English especially English titled Lady's has taught him to hate and pre judge the English. Until he meets and falls head over heals in love with Lady Sybil.
The Highlander's Choice touches on issues of prejudice and pre conceived notions passed on by parents about other people. This story is very well done and very moving. It is also, very well written with lively believable characters. I loved how all the myths that the H/H believed are proven to be ridiculous and what they had been taught to believe was based oh hateful people and family that hated people they didn't understand. Believe me I know a little of what the Scottish suffered at the hands of the British. So I do understand how the hatred on the Scottish side could happen. But Liam and Sybil overcome all of this. They are one of the best written couples I have read in awhile!!
The Romance between Liam and Sybil is lovely, sexy, sensual and believable. I loved both of these characters!!
I Highly Recommend The Highlander's Choice by Callie Hutton!!
July 10, 2015
3.5*
I love this series so much. Callie Hutton has such a way with historical romance, whether it be Regency or Western. Her words take you to that time and place and your totally wrapped up in the story.
While this is not my favorite book in the series so far I did truly enjoy it. It's was a good story of not judging a book by its cover and getting to know the person for who they are not what they are...Scottish vs English. Sybil has grown up being told the barbarian ways of the Scots and Liam the entitled and demanding ways of the English. After spending time together they begin to see the good in each other and how this might just be the future they've been looking for if they can get passed their prejudice.
I am looking forward to reading Sarah's book next.
I highly recommend this series they are not stand alone books and should be read in order to fully enjoy each book.
I love this series so much. Callie Hutton has such a way with historical romance, whether it be Regency or Western. Her words take you to that time and place and your totally wrapped up in the story.
While this is not my favorite book in the series so far I did truly enjoy it. It's was a good story of not judging a book by its cover and getting to know the person for who they are not what they are...Scottish vs English. Sybil has grown up being told the barbarian ways of the Scots and Liam the entitled and demanding ways of the English. After spending time together they begin to see the good in each other and how this might just be the future they've been looking for if they can get passed their prejudice.
I am looking forward to reading Sarah's book next.
I highly recommend this series they are not stand alone books and should be read in order to fully enjoy each book.
July 13, 2015
I received an ARC of this book for my honest opinion.
Callie Hutton writes a great regency story about an English lady and a Scottish laird. Both have animosity and preconceived notions about the other. But they must get along for their friends mutual wedding. Throw in an angry mother and things escalate quickly. Can a love grow and survive in this climate?
I really enjoy Ms. Hutton's regency series. It is not my usual genre but I couldn't put this story down. A job well done!
Callie Hutton writes a great regency story about an English lady and a Scottish laird. Both have animosity and preconceived notions about the other. But they must get along for their friends mutual wedding. Throw in an angry mother and things escalate quickly. Can a love grow and survive in this climate?
I really enjoy Ms. Hutton's regency series. It is not my usual genre but I couldn't put this story down. A job well done!
July 20, 2015
Very sweet and enjoyable read. Liam and Sybil were great together. My only disappointment was that Liam mother was not given three slaps. But I am a very bloodthirsty person, so there is that. She was a horrid woman who tried to drive away the love of his life. The fact Sybil even allowed his mother to get away with her rubbish, showed Sybil gentle strength, dignity and grace. I loved her for it. I would recommend to lovers of historical romance.
August 4, 2015
I'd say 3.5 stars. It is a nice quick read and I enjoyed the story. The Scottish hero and English heroine both have preconceived notions about the other one's country. The attraction between them is strong enough to overcome all odds. I'm not sure if this book is truly a novella, but it is a nice read. I enjoyed it.
June 23, 2015
I read this book prior to the release. Regency romance at its absolute best. Callie Hutton does it again and only gets better. I can't wait for the next book!
July 1, 2015
I enjoyed this book. Full review to come
July 14, 2015
Review coming soon to a computer screen near you.
October 9, 2019
Reviewed by Lori
Book provided by the author
This is book 5 in the Marriage Mart Mayhem series, and I believe this can be read as a standalone book. None of the books prior needs to be read before reading this one, and the author provides the information needed in order to understand what happened to characters in prior books, but I have to say that I won't be opposed to reading those books anyway.
I think before I start this review, I need to define what the term Sassenach means, because I have no idea and it's driving me crazy. According to dictionary.com: Sassenach: noun, Often Disparaging. 1. a term used by the Gaelic inhabitants of the British Isles to refer to the English inhabitants.
There, that's better, I can continue with my review now knowing what that word means. This was such a fast entertaining read. I found myself forgetting where I was and being totally immersed in the story and I felt like I was in the Highlands myself. I love it when a book can do that for me. I was totally entertained.
This book was just so well written and the story itself I totally loved. I believe that a sign of a truly great book is one where the author can transport someone to another place without leaving home, and this one fits the bill. At least in my opinion. I like that a reader can take the crux of the story, which is acceptance of others despite what you think you know, and we can apply it to modern day. I think we can all take a page out of this book and apply it to our own lives.
Before I get to the main characters, I have to say that the secondary characters are just as entertaining and deserve a mention in this review. The secondary characters help move the plot along and are helpful to the main characters personal growth and maturity. They are also funny as heck and are truly entertaining too.
Sybil and Liam both have a lifetime of beliefs that have been drummed into their heads that they have to overcome. They both have misguided beliefs about the other that aren't necessarily true about everyone from that group. We all are guilty of that, and fictional characters aren't exempt from that as well. Both Sybil and Liam learn and grow together as the new couple they become as well as individually and they learn that not everyone is the same, and that the actions of one doesn't dictate the actions of many.
If historical romance is something that the reader loves, if it's something the reader wants to explore, then give this book a whirl, it's really good, and I think it's worth a shot.
Book provided by the author
This is book 5 in the Marriage Mart Mayhem series, and I believe this can be read as a standalone book. None of the books prior needs to be read before reading this one, and the author provides the information needed in order to understand what happened to characters in prior books, but I have to say that I won't be opposed to reading those books anyway.
I think before I start this review, I need to define what the term Sassenach means, because I have no idea and it's driving me crazy. According to dictionary.com: Sassenach: noun, Often Disparaging. 1. a term used by the Gaelic inhabitants of the British Isles to refer to the English inhabitants.
There, that's better, I can continue with my review now knowing what that word means. This was such a fast entertaining read. I found myself forgetting where I was and being totally immersed in the story and I felt like I was in the Highlands myself. I love it when a book can do that for me. I was totally entertained.
This book was just so well written and the story itself I totally loved. I believe that a sign of a truly great book is one where the author can transport someone to another place without leaving home, and this one fits the bill. At least in my opinion. I like that a reader can take the crux of the story, which is acceptance of others despite what you think you know, and we can apply it to modern day. I think we can all take a page out of this book and apply it to our own lives.
Before I get to the main characters, I have to say that the secondary characters are just as entertaining and deserve a mention in this review. The secondary characters help move the plot along and are helpful to the main characters personal growth and maturity. They are also funny as heck and are truly entertaining too.
Sybil and Liam both have a lifetime of beliefs that have been drummed into their heads that they have to overcome. They both have misguided beliefs about the other that aren't necessarily true about everyone from that group. We all are guilty of that, and fictional characters aren't exempt from that as well. Both Sybil and Liam learn and grow together as the new couple they become as well as individually and they learn that not everyone is the same, and that the actions of one doesn't dictate the actions of many.
If historical romance is something that the reader loves, if it's something the reader wants to explore, then give this book a whirl, it's really good, and I think it's worth a shot.
February 10, 2023
This is by far my favorite book of this series. It was so sweet & scandalous! Enemies (in a way) to lovers is my favorite. The way Sybil didn't let the MIL get to her was so funny. Can't wait to read the next book of the series.
March 18, 2022
the entire time i was imagining Liam as sam heughan because he's described exactly like jamie fraser. it was great.
September 6, 2022
Cute. Somewhat irritating, but fine.
June 28, 2015
Review copy courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley.
I've recently started reading Scottish Highlander-type romances. I can't really remember why I never wanted to read them before. I guess I just thought that English Regency romances were so wonderful, that there was no room for improvement. It's books like this one that has changed my mind about that and that have opened me up to trying even more new stuff!
Sybil was a pretty decent hero. The Scottish and English really don't like each other very much so I thought it was occasionally fun to watch Sybil overcome her biases. But I didn't love that she had them to begin with. I really loved Sybil's reaction to the first time she saw the hero: her mouth gaped and she was a little worried about drool! LOL! Sybil and the hero's mom REALLY didn't get along but I liked the fact that Sybil decided to be the better person and refused to fight with his mom. His mom hates the English with a passion and never hid her disdain for Sybil. So I liked that Sybil was trying to take the high road but after a while, it felt like she was just being a doormat. I wanted her to at least call the hero's mom out about her behavior. Not run to the hero or anything, but to handle it herself. Sybil never did that and it was disappointing.
Liam was a good hero. He sounded manly and sexy and VERY Highlander-ish. That's a compliment, by the way! I liked how Liam was slowly charmed by Sybil and that he let some of his prejudices go as he spent time with her. I really didn't like how blind he let himself be in regards to his mom's behavior. He left Sybil at his home with his mom for a few days, knowing that she hated Sybil. I can't believe that he thought things would be fine. I was glad that he finally put his foot down with his mom at practically the end of the book but it was a little too late for me. I lost a bit of my liking of Liam by that point and there wasn't really enough time for me to get it back.
The Sexy Time was decent but nothing amazing. I enjoyed the steady progression of the relationship between Sybil and Liam at the start of the book. They met, disliked each other due to their heritage, irritated each other and then started to like each other more and more as they spent more time together. I thought Sybil was a lot of fun so I felt like she and Liam were a really great match. It was tough to see them have to go through the trials they did to get over their prejudices but I was glad that they eventually came to an understanding of each other.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I ended up feeling like Liam's mom was overboard in her hatred for the English. It was worse once I realized that the things she hated about the English were all events that happened before she was even born. I think if his mom's character could have had a smaller part or had been less intense, I would have liked the book a lot more. I just couldn't get over how poorly she treated Sybil and how the things she did to Sybil were never really specifically addressed. But, Sybil and Liam were seriously funny and cute together and that went a long way to make up for how much I disliked Liam's mom. There were a few laughs and plenty of drama in this story. Although this is the fifth book in the Marriage Mart Mayhem series, I feel like it could be read as a stand-alone. I've not read any of the previous novels and had no difficulty keeping up. I liked this book and will probably read more from this author in the future.
Rating: 3.5 stars
I've recently started reading Scottish Highlander-type romances. I can't really remember why I never wanted to read them before. I guess I just thought that English Regency romances were so wonderful, that there was no room for improvement. It's books like this one that has changed my mind about that and that have opened me up to trying even more new stuff!
Sybil was a pretty decent hero. The Scottish and English really don't like each other very much so I thought it was occasionally fun to watch Sybil overcome her biases. But I didn't love that she had them to begin with. I really loved Sybil's reaction to the first time she saw the hero: her mouth gaped and she was a little worried about drool! LOL! Sybil and the hero's mom REALLY didn't get along but I liked the fact that Sybil decided to be the better person and refused to fight with his mom. His mom hates the English with a passion and never hid her disdain for Sybil. So I liked that Sybil was trying to take the high road but after a while, it felt like she was just being a doormat. I wanted her to at least call the hero's mom out about her behavior. Not run to the hero or anything, but to handle it herself. Sybil never did that and it was disappointing.
Liam was a good hero. He sounded manly and sexy and VERY Highlander-ish. That's a compliment, by the way! I liked how Liam was slowly charmed by Sybil and that he let some of his prejudices go as he spent time with her. I really didn't like how blind he let himself be in regards to his mom's behavior. He left Sybil at his home with his mom for a few days, knowing that she hated Sybil. I can't believe that he thought things would be fine. I was glad that he finally put his foot down with his mom at practically the end of the book but it was a little too late for me. I lost a bit of my liking of Liam by that point and there wasn't really enough time for me to get it back.
The Sexy Time was decent but nothing amazing. I enjoyed the steady progression of the relationship between Sybil and Liam at the start of the book. They met, disliked each other due to their heritage, irritated each other and then started to like each other more and more as they spent more time together. I thought Sybil was a lot of fun so I felt like she and Liam were a really great match. It was tough to see them have to go through the trials they did to get over their prejudices but I was glad that they eventually came to an understanding of each other.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I ended up feeling like Liam's mom was overboard in her hatred for the English. It was worse once I realized that the things she hated about the English were all events that happened before she was even born. I think if his mom's character could have had a smaller part or had been less intense, I would have liked the book a lot more. I just couldn't get over how poorly she treated Sybil and how the things she did to Sybil were never really specifically addressed. But, Sybil and Liam were seriously funny and cute together and that went a long way to make up for how much I disliked Liam's mom. There were a few laughs and plenty of drama in this story. Although this is the fifth book in the Marriage Mart Mayhem series, I feel like it could be read as a stand-alone. I've not read any of the previous novels and had no difficulty keeping up. I liked this book and will probably read more from this author in the future.
Rating: 3.5 stars
August 1, 2015
Vikki’s Musings
The Highlander’s Choice is not the first book I have read by Callie Hutton. I read A Baron’s Betrayal and enjoyed it a great deal. When I received a request from the publisher to read and review this book in exchange for an honest review, I agreed immediately. This is a lovely romance novel set in the beautiful highlands of Scotland.
When Lady Sybil Lacey accompanies her friend to Scotland for her wedding to a Scottish laird, the last thing she expects or wants is to be attracted to a barbaric Scots, but when she meets Liam, Laird MacBride, that is exactly what happens.
Will Sybil and Liam find a way to move beyond their prejudices and find true love, or will they let those issues drive them apart forever?
This story is a sweetly developing tale of two individuals with preconceived ideas based on what they grew up believing. Liam, Laird McBride thinks all Sassenach females act entitled and are not concerned over anything besides balls and parties with an endless line of servants waiting on them all the time. Lady Sybil believes all Scottish men are barbarians, drink huge quantities of whiskey and bed any woman they can find. Obviously, they are worlds apart in their thinking.
I liked Lady Sybil’s character quite a lot. She is loyal to her friend, loves her brother and sisters, and is in tune with nature and the beauty of Scotland. She is no young miss without a thought in her head besides attending parties and participating in idle gossip. She quickly shows Liam that she is no pampered miss. I liked her determination to remain calm and not react to what Liam’s mother tries to do. Even though she is a bit of a hoyden, she is quite feminine, a female after my own heart.
Liam makes a great hero. He is a man of honor and integrity. He is loyal to his friends and treats women with a great deal of respect, while still having a touch of a daring twist to his character. He is fairly uncomplicated and straight forward. When he makes up his mind to woo Sybil, he sets out to do that in a big way. He allows her to see the real Liam without any hidden agendas. This may sound like he is a bit boring, but he is not at all. It is a refreshing change for the hero to be a straight up kind of guy, so many of the heroes in romance novels are terrible rakes.
That is not to say, he is above taking his wooing as far as need be to win his lady. Ms. Hutton does a superb job of building sexual tension, and when Sybil and Liam do crawl between the sheets, sparks fly. While the love scenes are mildly explicit, they are deeply emotional, satisfying this reader’s romantic heart.
The Highlander’s Choice is a tale that bridges the gap between cultures. Still to this day, Scotland strains under the yolk of British rule. At the time of this story, there were still people alive in Scotland who had lived through the aftermath of Culloden. It’s no wonder some Scots like Liam’s mother, still hated the English. Ms. Hutton was able to handle this delicate issue with great expertize. I have high hopes that now that the Scottish people have voted to stay a part of Great Britain, there can be lasting acceptance and collaboration between England and Scotland and old wounds can be healed at last.
At one point in the story, I greatly feared the couple would not be able to bridge their differences, but thank goodness this is romance so they do manage to attain their “happily ever after.” I thoroughly enjoyed this delightful love story, and I cannot wait to read Sarah’s story. Happy reading!
The Highlander’s Choice is not the first book I have read by Callie Hutton. I read A Baron’s Betrayal and enjoyed it a great deal. When I received a request from the publisher to read and review this book in exchange for an honest review, I agreed immediately. This is a lovely romance novel set in the beautiful highlands of Scotland.
When Lady Sybil Lacey accompanies her friend to Scotland for her wedding to a Scottish laird, the last thing she expects or wants is to be attracted to a barbaric Scots, but when she meets Liam, Laird MacBride, that is exactly what happens.
Will Sybil and Liam find a way to move beyond their prejudices and find true love, or will they let those issues drive them apart forever?
This story is a sweetly developing tale of two individuals with preconceived ideas based on what they grew up believing. Liam, Laird McBride thinks all Sassenach females act entitled and are not concerned over anything besides balls and parties with an endless line of servants waiting on them all the time. Lady Sybil believes all Scottish men are barbarians, drink huge quantities of whiskey and bed any woman they can find. Obviously, they are worlds apart in their thinking.
I liked Lady Sybil’s character quite a lot. She is loyal to her friend, loves her brother and sisters, and is in tune with nature and the beauty of Scotland. She is no young miss without a thought in her head besides attending parties and participating in idle gossip. She quickly shows Liam that she is no pampered miss. I liked her determination to remain calm and not react to what Liam’s mother tries to do. Even though she is a bit of a hoyden, she is quite feminine, a female after my own heart.
Liam makes a great hero. He is a man of honor and integrity. He is loyal to his friends and treats women with a great deal of respect, while still having a touch of a daring twist to his character. He is fairly uncomplicated and straight forward. When he makes up his mind to woo Sybil, he sets out to do that in a big way. He allows her to see the real Liam without any hidden agendas. This may sound like he is a bit boring, but he is not at all. It is a refreshing change for the hero to be a straight up kind of guy, so many of the heroes in romance novels are terrible rakes.
That is not to say, he is above taking his wooing as far as need be to win his lady. Ms. Hutton does a superb job of building sexual tension, and when Sybil and Liam do crawl between the sheets, sparks fly. While the love scenes are mildly explicit, they are deeply emotional, satisfying this reader’s romantic heart.
The Highlander’s Choice is a tale that bridges the gap between cultures. Still to this day, Scotland strains under the yolk of British rule. At the time of this story, there were still people alive in Scotland who had lived through the aftermath of Culloden. It’s no wonder some Scots like Liam’s mother, still hated the English. Ms. Hutton was able to handle this delicate issue with great expertize. I have high hopes that now that the Scottish people have voted to stay a part of Great Britain, there can be lasting acceptance and collaboration between England and Scotland and old wounds can be healed at last.
At one point in the story, I greatly feared the couple would not be able to bridge their differences, but thank goodness this is romance so they do manage to attain their “happily ever after.” I thoroughly enjoyed this delightful love story, and I cannot wait to read Sarah’s story. Happy reading!
July 8, 2015
Something I learned from reading romance novels and history books is that the United Kingdom had a lot of internal political issues that spanned generations. Sybil is British to the core, and was secretly horrified when her best friend, Margaret, agreed to marry a Highlander. Sybil's family believes in love and, after four successful seasons, Sybil is still hoping she would find her one true love the same way her siblings have. It comes as a surprise to Sybil when she feels an instant (and intense) attraction to Liam McBride, the friend of Margaret's intended -- and also happens to be a Highlander.
This novel really plays up on the idea of preconceived notions and prejudices that people have and how we overcome it. It was interesting to read how Liam and Sybil surprised each other as they spent more time together -- and Hutton really used this to reveal wonderful aspects of her characters. (I loved that Liam read Jane Austen and wasn't really ashamed to admit it to Sybil. ^_^)
But the struggle is real, and Liam and Sybil both had to figure out how to remain "loyal" to their respective cultures, but, at the same time, to listen to their hearts and follow happiness. I thought it was a wonderful point of reflection how deep-seated the enmity ran between the two "cultures" and this served as the main conflict of the story.
I admired Sybil's resolve, and how she didn't allow Liam to seduce convince her to marry him. She really held her ground and used her own experiences to make certain she was making the correct decision. (And, when something unacceptable happens, Sybil had no problems packing up her things and leaving.)
Liam's mother is the personification of the conflict between Scotland and England, and she really gave Sybil a difficult time when she stayed at Bedlay Castle. However, I felt a little disappointed when the source of Liam's mother's anger was revealed. (Part of me felt it was a bit unequal to the venom she unleashed on Sybil.)
Overall, this was a quick and pleasant read. My regret is that this is already book 5 in the Marriage Mart Mayhem series, and, when Sybil talked about her other siblings and their love matches, I thought they all sounded very, very interesting.
The Highlander's Choice is Book 5 in Callie Hutton's Marriage Mart Mayhem series and will be released on July 14, 2015.
Disclosure: I received a review copy via Netgalley. Thank you to Entangled Publishing and Callie Hutton for the opportunity. Yes, this is an honest review.
This novel really plays up on the idea of preconceived notions and prejudices that people have and how we overcome it. It was interesting to read how Liam and Sybil surprised each other as they spent more time together -- and Hutton really used this to reveal wonderful aspects of her characters. (I loved that Liam read Jane Austen and wasn't really ashamed to admit it to Sybil. ^_^)
Liam held the door open to the bookstore, and Lady Sybil passed through. So far the lass had done everything counter to what he'd expected. Riding in pants, joining the men for an early breakfast, and now when the other ladies were inspecting ribbons and bows, this unusual Englishwoman was strolling the aisles of the bookstore.
- loc 202
But the struggle is real, and Liam and Sybil both had to figure out how to remain "loyal" to their respective cultures, but, at the same time, to listen to their hearts and follow happiness. I thought it was a wonderful point of reflection how deep-seated the enmity ran between the two "cultures" and this served as the main conflict of the story.
I admired Sybil's resolve, and how she didn't allow Liam to seduce convince her to marry him. She really held her ground and used her own experiences to make certain she was making the correct decision. (And, when something unacceptable happens, Sybil had no problems packing up her things and leaving.)
But she wanted them to more than "suit." She hadn't spent her life thus far waiting for love to give up on it now. Love had to be part of the proposal, or she would indeed return home.
- loc 1038
Liam's mother is the personification of the conflict between Scotland and England, and she really gave Sybil a difficult time when she stayed at Bedlay Castle. However, I felt a little disappointed when the source of Liam's mother's anger was revealed. (Part of me felt it was a bit unequal to the venom she unleashed on Sybil.)
Overall, this was a quick and pleasant read. My regret is that this is already book 5 in the Marriage Mart Mayhem series, and, when Sybil talked about her other siblings and their love matches, I thought they all sounded very, very interesting.
The Highlander's Choice is Book 5 in Callie Hutton's Marriage Mart Mayhem series and will be released on July 14, 2015.
Disclosure: I received a review copy via Netgalley. Thank you to Entangled Publishing and Callie Hutton for the opportunity. Yes, this is an honest review.
May 8, 2017
I feel like I'm quite literally the only one that didn't love this book. Looking at the ratings, I'm not really exaggerating. I'm not sure about everyone else but for me this book was just...awful. Not the worst book I've read by a long shot, but nothing about it was good. Everyone loved this book! I was so sure this was just going to be great. Within 5 pages it all went to hell.
One of my favorite tropes is the good ol' "I'm going to shatter all your preconceived notions of who I am or what I am". He thinks she stupid? She turns out to be a secret best-selling novelist. She thinks he's a hard-hearted douche? He writes sigh worthy poetry. He thinks she can't so much as hold a bow properly because she's a woman? She beats him in an archery competition. You know the type. This book falls under that category, but all it did was tell me over and over and over that this is exactly what the book was. It was the most glaringly obvious case of telling not showing that I've read in quite a while. She complains that riding in a carriage for 5 days was uncomfortable, he thinks to himself that she is a horrible harridan that complains too much. Not two pages later, she's in the rain riding a horse in breeches (astride of course) Why? I have no idea. I guess going out in the rain on horseback by yourself in men's clothing in a new country (Scotland) just sounded like a good idea. Or perhaps it was was that he would think to himself how wrong he was. Everyone decides to go shopping and the hero is so very surprised when the heroine decides to go into a bookstore instead of a ribbon shop. GASP. Even worse, the hero goes with her, and it turns out GASP, he reads too! I feel like I'm being harsh, I don't mean to be, but it was like there was a checklist for expectations and prejudices that were systematically ticked off and challenged, and nothing else. The book was literally one expectation shattered after another. I suppose that isn't a bad thing if done well, but in my opinion, it wasn't. After a while, I was starting to feel a little insulted the way everything was spelled out and explained.
I get it. Most of the time I read romance because I don't want to work for it. Sometimes I need some of it spoon-fed to me. I don't want to have to dig for the deeper meaning and look for themes. That's different. This felt like someone explaining a book they'd once read that they really liked. I found the romance a bit underwhelming considering how long I had to read about how much Liam wanted a strong and sturdy Scottish lass to bear him children and how Sybil was so sure that Liam just wanted to drink and have lusty sex with any woman in the vicinity. Even as they each moved passed their own ignorance and stupidity I just didn't care. I wanted to, I just didn't.
I guess it just wasn't for me. Oh well. Better luck next time.
One of my favorite tropes is the good ol' "I'm going to shatter all your preconceived notions of who I am or what I am". He thinks she stupid? She turns out to be a secret best-selling novelist. She thinks he's a hard-hearted douche? He writes sigh worthy poetry. He thinks she can't so much as hold a bow properly because she's a woman? She beats him in an archery competition. You know the type. This book falls under that category, but all it did was tell me over and over and over that this is exactly what the book was. It was the most glaringly obvious case of telling not showing that I've read in quite a while. She complains that riding in a carriage for 5 days was uncomfortable, he thinks to himself that she is a horrible harridan that complains too much. Not two pages later, she's in the rain riding a horse in breeches (astride of course) Why? I have no idea. I guess going out in the rain on horseback by yourself in men's clothing in a new country (Scotland) just sounded like a good idea. Or perhaps it was was that he would think to himself how wrong he was. Everyone decides to go shopping and the hero is so very surprised when the heroine decides to go into a bookstore instead of a ribbon shop. GASP. Even worse, the hero goes with her, and it turns out GASP, he reads too! I feel like I'm being harsh, I don't mean to be, but it was like there was a checklist for expectations and prejudices that were systematically ticked off and challenged, and nothing else. The book was literally one expectation shattered after another. I suppose that isn't a bad thing if done well, but in my opinion, it wasn't. After a while, I was starting to feel a little insulted the way everything was spelled out and explained.
I get it. Most of the time I read romance because I don't want to work for it. Sometimes I need some of it spoon-fed to me. I don't want to have to dig for the deeper meaning and look for themes. That's different. This felt like someone explaining a book they'd once read that they really liked. I found the romance a bit underwhelming considering how long I had to read about how much Liam wanted a strong and sturdy Scottish lass to bear him children and how Sybil was so sure that Liam just wanted to drink and have lusty sex with any woman in the vicinity. Even as they each moved passed their own ignorance and stupidity I just didn't care. I wanted to, I just didn't.
I guess it just wasn't for me. Oh well. Better luck next time.
July 19, 2015
When prejudices you gave grown up with clash with your heart and the possibility of love, what do you do? You go for the love and learn that your prejudices were misplaced and you should not have generalized.
Lady Sybil Lacey is the daughter and sister of the Duke of Manchester and is venturing into Scotland to attend the wedding of her best friend. She has been waiting for the “one” to come along and has been through four seasons waiting. Along comes this Scot, this very handsome, smart, and intriguing, Scot. He blasts her preconceived ideas of what a Scotsman is out of the water. Sybil was raised in a very unconventional fashion and her family is very untraditional, so she is able to start to see past her notions. Her unconventional upbringing also enables her to blow-up Liam’s ideas of Sassenach’s. It also gives her a leg up when dealing with Liam’s mean-spirited, spiteful and just plain nasty mother.
At 31 Liam needs to set up his nursery and is not impressed with any of the women that his mother is constantly throwing in his path. As laird and Chieftain for the clan MacBride there are duties that he must uphold. He is attending the same wedding and is worried that his best friend, the groom is making a huge mistake marrying a Sassenach. When he meets Sybil he finds baiting her is not only great fun, she is not the wilting miss he was prepared for.
This is a fun, delightful and fast paced read. The interaction between Sybil and Liam had me smiling from their first meeting. Watching them learn to look past preconceived notions and change their views was heartwarming. As the story progressed and they passed hurdle after hurdle in the background were Liam’s doubts about his mother’s ability to change and accept Sybil. That added a good level of tension to the story so it was not just a case of he said, she said. The history of the English versus the Scots was briefly touched on, but was not pounded on, there was just enough mentioned to keep things rolling.
This is the fifth in the Marriage Mart Mayhem series and I will be going back to catch up. It was still a charming read as a standalone book. Ms. Hutton has a wonderful sense of humor and creates characters that you want to meet in person and some that you are grateful are confined to the pages of her book! Thank you for a lovely summer day read! I am looking forward to learning about what happened to Sarah, Sybil’s twin sister on her journey to visit Sybil.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Lady Sybil Lacey is the daughter and sister of the Duke of Manchester and is venturing into Scotland to attend the wedding of her best friend. She has been waiting for the “one” to come along and has been through four seasons waiting. Along comes this Scot, this very handsome, smart, and intriguing, Scot. He blasts her preconceived ideas of what a Scotsman is out of the water. Sybil was raised in a very unconventional fashion and her family is very untraditional, so she is able to start to see past her notions. Her unconventional upbringing also enables her to blow-up Liam’s ideas of Sassenach’s. It also gives her a leg up when dealing with Liam’s mean-spirited, spiteful and just plain nasty mother.
At 31 Liam needs to set up his nursery and is not impressed with any of the women that his mother is constantly throwing in his path. As laird and Chieftain for the clan MacBride there are duties that he must uphold. He is attending the same wedding and is worried that his best friend, the groom is making a huge mistake marrying a Sassenach. When he meets Sybil he finds baiting her is not only great fun, she is not the wilting miss he was prepared for.
This is a fun, delightful and fast paced read. The interaction between Sybil and Liam had me smiling from their first meeting. Watching them learn to look past preconceived notions and change their views was heartwarming. As the story progressed and they passed hurdle after hurdle in the background were Liam’s doubts about his mother’s ability to change and accept Sybil. That added a good level of tension to the story so it was not just a case of he said, she said. The history of the English versus the Scots was briefly touched on, but was not pounded on, there was just enough mentioned to keep things rolling.
This is the fifth in the Marriage Mart Mayhem series and I will be going back to catch up. It was still a charming read as a standalone book. Ms. Hutton has a wonderful sense of humor and creates characters that you want to meet in person and some that you are grateful are confined to the pages of her book! Thank you for a lovely summer day read! I am looking forward to learning about what happened to Sarah, Sybil’s twin sister on her journey to visit Sybil.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
June 29, 2015
Sybil and Liam face an uphill battle if their love for each other is going to survive and progress to a happy marriage. Both have to overcome their own prejudices about the other's heritage. They also have to contend with Liam's mother who has no liking for the English.
The teasing and witty banter between Sybil and Liam was cute and funny. They disliked each other on sight but they also found themselves attracted to each other and their way of dealing with that was to spar with words. But instead of creating a distance between them, the more they teased each other the more they liked and respected the other.
I liked that the romance between the two wasn't dragged out before Liam proposed to Sybil. Even though they'd only known each other a short time I liked that the story moved on to a second phase. Sybil gets to spend time at his estate and meet his family before coming to a decision about their future. A lot happens at the castle because her presence isn't met with enthusiasm. Liam also leaves her there with his nasty mother while he goes off to attend estate business. This part of the novel reminds me of the gothic romances of Victoria Holt. Sybil is not treated very well and she has to think on her feet and deal with it quietly. Liam is not much help to her.
I enjoyed all the drama at the end of the story. Liam has some pleading to do to convince Sybil to marry him. Her family are involved at this stage and her brother's response to Liam was both appropriate and a bit of entertainment before the inevitable happily ever after.
The Highlander's Choice is part of a series but can be equally enjoyed as a stand alone novel.
I received a copy from netgalley in return for a review.
August 2, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
I really enjoyed this story! There was great chemistry between Liam and Sybil, which kept me hooked from start to finish. I absolutely adored Liam, he was such a sweetheart, constantly trying his best to make Sybil feel at home, and eventually falling hopelessly in love with her, completely unaware of how much his horrible mother was working against him. What a dreadful woman she was. Honestly, I would have sent her away for good!
I do wish the pregnancy had played a slightly bigger role in the story, as it felt like such an important moment that could have been explored more deeply. That said, it was still an incredibly entertaining read, and I couldn’t put it down.
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Summary;
(Spoilers)
Lady Sybil Lacey is the daughter of the late Duke of Manchester. She travels to Scotland for the wedding of her best friend, Lady Margaret, who is marrying the Scottish Laird Duncan McKinnon. They arrive in Scotland two weeks before the wedding to stay until the big day. From the moment they arrive, Duncan’s best friend, Laird Liam MacBride, immediately catches Sybil’s attention, and the feeling is mutual. Liam is intrigued by Sybil, he teases her and constantly challenges her, trying to make her confirm his belief about how all English ladies behave. Raised by a mother who deeply despises the English because of the war years ago, Liam has inherited some of that prejudice. But every day, Sybil proves him wrong.
She is unlike any woman he has met. She is the only lady at breakfast, eating full plates without shame, something most other women would never dare to do. When he encounters her while she’s out riding, he is shocked to find her wearing trousers, highly unusual for a lady, and can’t help but notice her everywhere she goes.
Sybil, for her part, also has her prejudices. She believes Scots are brutes, loud, drunken, and ill-mannered. But Liam doesn’t behave as she expected. In many ways, he could easily pass for an English gentleman, except for his shameless flirting, which throws her off balance.
After days of playful banter, teasing, and growing tension, Liam can no longer hold back. He kisses Sybil, and she reacts nothing like the virginal Englishwoman he expected, but exactly as he had secretly hoped. From that moment, he can’t get enough of her.
Though Liam had often thought about marriage as it is expected of him, he had always imagined marrying a Scottish lass. Yet none of the Scottish women had ever caught his interest. Sybil, however, is quickly becoming everything he wants in a wife.
The day of Margaret and Duncan’s wedding arrives, and Sybil is scheduled to return home the next day. After several intimate moments together, Liam decides to propose to her. Sybil is stunned by his proposal. She explains that she cannot give an answer yet, she wants to marry for love and isn’t sure what exactly is between them. Liam suggests that she stay in Scotland for a while longer, to spend more time with him and decide what she truly wants.
Liam returns to Bedlay Castle ahead of Sybil to inform his mother and two younger sisters that an English lady will be staying with them. His mother is furious and refuses to accept it, but as laird, Liam has the final say, and Sybil is coming.
When Sybil arrives, she is eager to meet Liam’s family and finds it strange that his mother, as the lady of the house, is not there to welcome her. It quickly becomes clear why; she is not welcome. She is given the dirtiest and coldest room in the castle, is not woken for breakfast, and when she finally makes her way to the dining room, there is no food left, only old, cold scraps are offered. But Sybil refuses to be defeated. Liam’s mother wants her to act like a spoiled English princess, but Sybil won’t give her the satisfaction.
Soon, Sybil wins over Liam’s younger sisters and enjoys her time getting to know Liam better. He tries to make her stay as pleasant as possible, unaware that his mother is secretly sabotaging him at every turn. Sybil says nothing.
Liam, meanwhile, is growing impatient. He wants to know her answer. Over the days Sybil has spent at Bedlay Castle, his feelings for her have deepened. He may even be falling in love.
One night in the library, their passion overcomes them, and they sleep together for the first time. For Liam, it is unlike anything he has ever experienced, and he becomes certain that Sybil must be his wife. In the days that follow, he keeps reminding her that she could be carrying his child and repeatedly presses her for an answer. Sybil, torn between her growing feelings for him and the hostility of his mother, begins to imagine what life at Bedlay Castle as Liam’s wife could be like.
Eventually, she says yes. They begin planning the wedding. At first, it seems that Liam’s mother is softening, until she shocks Liam by announcing that she has invited a Scottish Lady to Bedlay Castle for him to marry instead. Enraged, Liam declares that he will marry Sybil and no one else. His mother protests, insisting that his children would be English and that it would bring shame to their family. The argument escalates until Liam shouts that his children will be Scottish and absolutely not raised as English. Unbeknownst to him, Sybil has overheard. Heartbroken by his words, she enters the room in tears, breaks off their engagement, and leaves for home.
Weeks pass, and both are miserable. Liam, who has been away from home, finally decides to return to Bedlay Castle to resume his duties. Upon arrival, he finds the Scottish Lady his mother invited has arrived. He takes her aside and makes it clear that he will not marry her, his heart belongs to someone else. Realizing how foolish he has been, Liam decides to go to Manchester to win Sybil back.
His mother rages against his decision, but he has had enough. He sends her to another wing of the castle, forbidding her from interfering with his life with Sybil ever again.
When Liam arrives in Manchester, he sees Sybil for the first time in weeks and is overwhelmed with emotion. He confesses how foolish he was, explaining that his mother provoked him into saying those hurtful things. He tells her that he loves her and begs for a second chance. Noticing that Sybil looks unwell, he suspects that she is pregnant.
Sybil forgives him. They marry a few days later and return to Bedlay Castle, where they hold another ceremony for his clan and family. Sybil has an honest conversation with Liam’s mother, who begins to accept her and even attends the wedding.
A few months later, Sybil gives birth to twins.
July 9, 2015
I received a copy of this story through NetGalley from Entangled Publishing for an honest review (thank you!). I don't read a lot of historical romance books, but when I do I prefer the highlander/Scottish genre. This was a great story told from Sylvia and Liam's perspectives. I have not read the previous books in the series (this is book 5) primarily centered around her siblings, but I had no trouble following along or feeling like I missed something.
Both characters were strong and independent, and although clashed at times due to their independence and pride, they were perfect together. The book had light hearted and humorous moments and it also had times where my heart hurt. In a way the book felt like it was broken into 2 parts. The first when they meet at their friends' wedding. This was a little slow for me, but it also established the characters and their preconceived notions of each other. The 2nd part begins with them giving into their attraction and feelings for each other. Once Sylvia agrees to return to Liam's home, I found myself really immersed in the story.
I suspect the next story is about Sylvia's identical twin sister, Sarah, who seems to be delayed on her visit to Scotland. I will finish this review with one last thought - I need to go hug my mother-in-law and tell her how much I appreciate her. Good grief, "that woman" needed to be put in a headlock.
Both characters were strong and independent, and although clashed at times due to their independence and pride, they were perfect together. The book had light hearted and humorous moments and it also had times where my heart hurt. In a way the book felt like it was broken into 2 parts. The first when they meet at their friends' wedding. This was a little slow for me, but it also established the characters and their preconceived notions of each other. The 2nd part begins with them giving into their attraction and feelings for each other. Once Sylvia agrees to return to Liam's home, I found myself really immersed in the story.
I suspect the next story is about Sylvia's identical twin sister, Sarah, who seems to be delayed on her visit to Scotland. I will finish this review with one last thought - I need to go hug my mother-in-law and tell her how much I appreciate her. Good grief, "that woman" needed to be put in a headlock.
July 12, 2015
Since I can not go to Scotland right now, on occasion I like to read a book that will take me there. The dialect also has to be part of it which this author does have. In this novel this author takes you along with Sybil who has went with her friend Margaret because she is to be married. Sybil though has a preconceived notion about men in Scotland that will change in the course of this novel. Her friend's intended has a guest that will do the changing of the mind and the heart. He though also has the same problem but with English thanks to his mother. Liam also likes to rile her up especially right away. Her reaction though is unexpected and she will also do many things that are not what he has heard. As the time goes on this author will give you a humorous lovely journey through the building of their relationship that will eventually be him asking her to marry him. He will also have her come to his home but the mother will make things darn difficult. The things that were present in those times also adds to the delight in the reading that takes you really away to it becoming quite the adventure. Through it all the trials and obstacles though love will prevail and this ending will be the icing on the trip.
July 15, 2015
A quick, enjoyable read. I have a real soft spot for Scotland (and for Scottish men), so I was sold from the moment I read the blurb. I really loved Liam, and although it's set in a different era I couldn't help but picture Sam Heughan, aka Jamie Fraser from Outlander. I suspect that this was written with that particular fan base in mind. There's real chemistry between Sybil and Liam from the start, and the battle of wills between Sybil and her future mother-in-law made for interesting reading. However I wasn't keen on the way things ended - it felt more like a shotgun wedding to me despite their being a love match. That said it is well written and brought a smile to my face, and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series, which tells the story of Sybil's twin sister Sarah!
*I was granted a free copy of this book by Entangled Publishing in exchange for a review!*
http://lilmissvixreads.blogspot.com/2...
*I was granted a free copy of this book by Entangled Publishing in exchange for a review!*
http://lilmissvixreads.blogspot.com/2...
July 9, 2015
My favorite book by Callie Hutton to date.
Lady Sybil is holding out for love but she won’t find it at her friend’s wedding—only those barbaric, whiskey-swilling Scots will be in attendance. Oh, but the sexy, strapping, tallness of a Scottish Highlander will win even the most pro-English lass out there.
I started reading this on the beach over the holiday weekend and was instantly transported from the sand to the chill of the highlands. Great writing—you actually felt that you were in attendance—like a fly on the wall. Filled with passion, emotions, love.
Did not want to put it down (had to because it’s hard to drive and read at the same time) but started reading it again as soon as I could. My favorite Callie Hutton novel to date.
While part of a series, The Highlander’s Choice is a stand-along novel. I would recommend it to those who like the Scottish historical romance novels or to those looking to read one for the first time.
Review copy provided for honest review.
Lady Sybil is holding out for love but she won’t find it at her friend’s wedding—only those barbaric, whiskey-swilling Scots will be in attendance. Oh, but the sexy, strapping, tallness of a Scottish Highlander will win even the most pro-English lass out there.
I started reading this on the beach over the holiday weekend and was instantly transported from the sand to the chill of the highlands. Great writing—you actually felt that you were in attendance—like a fly on the wall. Filled with passion, emotions, love.
Did not want to put it down (had to because it’s hard to drive and read at the same time) but started reading it again as soon as I could. My favorite Callie Hutton novel to date.
While part of a series, The Highlander’s Choice is a stand-along novel. I would recommend it to those who like the Scottish historical romance novels or to those looking to read one for the first time.
Review copy provided for honest review.
February 13, 2016
This is the fifth book in the "Marriage Mart Mayhem" series. I have not read the previous books, so for me this was a stand alone book. This book is about 200 pages also which for me made it the right size for a quick read. The heroine, Lady Sybil Lacey is a very English lady and is put off by Scottish Men, but her friend is marring one and Lady Sybil will be going with her friend to the wedding. There she meets our hero, Liam MacBride a Scottish laird of Bedlay Castle. Liam too is put of by English Ladies due to his mother not liking the English. They both set off with each other, with her being English and him being Scottish. But their attraction is easily making their heritage a non-issue. They have a lot to over come with each other feelings and their family for this love match to be complete. I truly enjoyed this book, now I am looking for more!!
June 30, 2015
A beautiful historical romance love about an English lady and a Scott Laird. Story line is very good and well executed. All characters are well-developed and will keep readers interested. I couldn't put it down once I started reading. It is full of humour and romance between two very unlikely people. Sybil has very low opinion about Scottish "barbarians", she did not expect that she will like let alone love one of them. Things weren't so different for Liam either. He was brought up with hatred for English "princesses" and never thought he would marry one of them. But they both were proved wrong. After getting to know each other, it was very hard for them to resist the attraction they felt.
P.S. I received a complementary copy of this book.
P.S. I received a complementary copy of this book.
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