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Mists of Fate #1
The Winter Laird
THE PRESENT
Successful matchmaker Brianagh O’Rourke believes in happily-ever-afters...just not her own. She’s convinced passion only exists in her dreams. When she reluctantly accepts a marriage proposal, Bri decides she needs a vacation—but she didn't expect it to be in 15th century Ireland.
THE PAST
Laird Nioclas MacWilliam just wants peace for his clan. The time for him to marry has come, and after waiting years for his ally to present their daughter, he’s agreed to marry another. But on the eve of his nuptials, a daring rescue brings his missing betrothed right into his arms.
And she does not want to be there.
THE FUTURE
Brianagh has to return to the future. Nioclas has to marry. He offers a solution for the both of them: She marries him and stays for three months, and they work together to convince his clan they are a love match. In return, he vows to safely return her home. But as the days turn to weeks, they both begin to see what a happily-ever-after could be. And when the time comes, does Brianagh return to the life she’s built, or does she remain in the past for a chance at true love?
Successful matchmaker Brianagh O’Rourke believes in happily-ever-afters...just not her own. She’s convinced passion only exists in her dreams. When she reluctantly accepts a marriage proposal, Bri decides she needs a vacation—but she didn't expect it to be in 15th century Ireland.
THE PAST
Laird Nioclas MacWilliam just wants peace for his clan. The time for him to marry has come, and after waiting years for his ally to present their daughter, he’s agreed to marry another. But on the eve of his nuptials, a daring rescue brings his missing betrothed right into his arms.
And she does not want to be there.
THE FUTURE
Brianagh has to return to the future. Nioclas has to marry. He offers a solution for the both of them: She marries him and stays for three months, and they work together to convince his clan they are a love match. In return, he vows to safely return her home. But as the days turn to weeks, they both begin to see what a happily-ever-after could be. And when the time comes, does Brianagh return to the life she’s built, or does she remain in the past for a chance at true love?
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 17, 2015
1264 people are currently reading
1214 people want to read
About the author
Nancy Scanlon
8 books223 followersBorn and raised near Boston, MA, Nancy wrote her first romance novel at age 16, when she realized that fictional boyfriends were much easier to figure out than real ones. In the time since, she managed to earn her B.A. in English from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, obtain a graduate certificate in creative writing from the University of Cambridge, and marry the man of her dreams (but she still holds tight to her fictional boyfriends).
Nancy adores all things misty, caffeinated, chocolate, and grammatically correct. Currently living in northern Virginia, she spends her time reading, writing, raising her children, and watching too many Hallmark Channel movies.
Nancy adores all things misty, caffeinated, chocolate, and grammatically correct. Currently living in northern Virginia, she spends her time reading, writing, raising her children, and watching too many Hallmark Channel movies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
November 12, 2015
Did I just got conned into reading this book? I didn't realize it was a clean romance because it has a heat rating of 3! That's just mean. I think I'm suffering some serious lady blue balls now.
This is my third time travel/historical romance. I remember loving both A Knight in Shining Armor and Transcendence. Both have modern days heroine and man from the past. I can't wait to start on The Winter Laird because I simply love this premise.
Brianagh O’Rourke is a successful matchmaker for the elite. When her millionaire boyfriend proposed to her, Brianagh decided to head to Ireland with her closest friend, Reilley to do some soul searching.
Like all other women, Brianagh dreams of her very own toe curling passionate love story and HEA, but she worried she is destine to settle for to be less because she is already successful in so many other areas.
When Reilley brought Brianagh to Ireland and then start sprouting about her legacy and destiny and time travelling, she thought they are in a Reenactment play. But then she found herself back in the 15th century with Reilley in tow and things just get seriously wrong from then onwards.
Laird Nioclas MacWilliam, the leader of the MacWilliam clan, one of the most powerful and prosperous clan in Ireland. When O'Rourke clan finally bring forth Brianagh to be his wife as promised, he was left speechless because the woman look exactly like the one in his dreams.
Brianagh was not exactly thrilled that she was thrown in 15th century and to find out she was arranged to be married to Nioclas. Despite Reilley's persuading her to stay and fulfilled her destiny, she is adamant to make her way back to her real home. Thank goodness Nioclas make a deal with her to stay married for only three months before he will let her go.
There is this instant awareness and attraction between them because they appeared in each other dreams for years. But common sense and reality was taking a front seat for Brianagh because she think she simply can't stay here for long. So is better for her not to start anything with the sinfully sexy warrior.
There is just something about these warrior brute that is so endearing. I simply love Nioclas. He's such a fearless leader and respected by all his men. If Brianagh actually give him a chance, I bet he can be a devoted husband too. Some of the romantic words he sprout honestly can only be found in his generation. For example:
"If the lass I loved married another, I would ride to the end of the world to find her. Then I would slay the fool who thought to steal her from me."
I enjoyed their interaction, the way they tip toeing around each other and sometimes Niclas will try to woo his wife. If there is actual sex scene without the whole fade to black deal, I would have love this book even more. Nancy did manage to tease me with some really hot kissing scene, but I hope she will venture into the smutt territory next. Pretty please.
By the way, there is a villain of course. The story won't be complete without them. There are some danger and suspense towards the end with the villain wanting to take over MacWilliams clan and get Brianagh time travelling power. I love Aidan and Reilley as the secondary characters assisting in the smackdown. Can't wait for their story next.
This is my third time travel/historical romance. I remember loving both A Knight in Shining Armor and Transcendence. Both have modern days heroine and man from the past. I can't wait to start on The Winter Laird because I simply love this premise.
Brianagh O’Rourke is a successful matchmaker for the elite. When her millionaire boyfriend proposed to her, Brianagh decided to head to Ireland with her closest friend, Reilley to do some soul searching.
Like all other women, Brianagh dreams of her very own toe curling passionate love story and HEA, but she worried she is destine to settle for to be less because she is already successful in so many other areas.
When Reilley brought Brianagh to Ireland and then start sprouting about her legacy and destiny and time travelling, she thought they are in a Reenactment play. But then she found herself back in the 15th century with Reilley in tow and things just get seriously wrong from then onwards.
Laird Nioclas MacWilliam, the leader of the MacWilliam clan, one of the most powerful and prosperous clan in Ireland. When O'Rourke clan finally bring forth Brianagh to be his wife as promised, he was left speechless because the woman look exactly like the one in his dreams.
Brianagh was not exactly thrilled that she was thrown in 15th century and to find out she was arranged to be married to Nioclas. Despite Reilley's persuading her to stay and fulfilled her destiny, she is adamant to make her way back to her real home. Thank goodness Nioclas make a deal with her to stay married for only three months before he will let her go.
There is this instant awareness and attraction between them because they appeared in each other dreams for years. But common sense and reality was taking a front seat for Brianagh because she think she simply can't stay here for long. So is better for her not to start anything with the sinfully sexy warrior.
There is just something about these warrior brute that is so endearing. I simply love Nioclas. He's such a fearless leader and respected by all his men. If Brianagh actually give him a chance, I bet he can be a devoted husband too. Some of the romantic words he sprout honestly can only be found in his generation. For example:
"If the lass I loved married another, I would ride to the end of the world to find her. Then I would slay the fool who thought to steal her from me."
I enjoyed their interaction, the way they tip toeing around each other and sometimes Niclas will try to woo his wife. If there is actual sex scene without the whole fade to black deal, I would have love this book even more. Nancy did manage to tease me with some really hot kissing scene, but I hope she will venture into the smutt territory next. Pretty please.
By the way, there is a villain of course. The story won't be complete without them. There are some danger and suspense towards the end with the villain wanting to take over MacWilliams clan and get Brianagh time travelling power. I love Aidan and Reilley as the secondary characters assisting in the smackdown. Can't wait for their story next.
November 16, 2015
Brianagh O’Rourke is one of the most coveted matchmakers in the business. It's only a shame that she herself cannot find a love match. When a family secret comes to light, the last thing Bri expects was to be thrown back into the past, without warning, by a man she trusted her entire life.
Now she is back somewhere in the 1400s, and must fulfill her sire's promise to the laird of the MacWilliams clan in joining their clans in marriage and her duty of producing children in order to save history. There, Bri comes to face to face with literally with the man of her dreams and the revelation stuns Nick just as much.
I liked the story. I thought the romance was sweet. I liked how Nick went out of his way to try and woo Bri into loving him because he realized he could not fulfill his promise to her of letting her go. Bri was a strong woman, but not powerful enough to deny the depth of the attraction between them. Her personality is to take charge and no sooner after arriving at the castle, does the boredom of being the lady of the castle, drives her into taking charge and making some changes.
Overall, as far as the story goes and the romance it was a good read. It was clean, and I came to admire both Bri and Nick. I liked watching their love for each other grow into something undeniable. I also really loved Reilly in this book and hope he eventually get's his own story.
My only gripe is the historical accuracy with this book. First, the blurb mentions 13th century Ireland, but in the book Bri goes back to the 15th Century Ireland. Second, the Irish heads of the clans during that period were often called the Irish Lords. Lairds were a Scottish term for the highlander clan lords in Scotland, not Ireland. If you are looking for a highlander romance, this is NOT it as Highlanders originated in the Scottish Highlands. Also, Irish lords didn't really wear kilts, which is what it looks like on the cover. They did wear leine, which is accurate in the book.
I also wished that Bri wasn't so accepting of her faith so quickly. For a modern girl, she did not act like being thrown into 15th century Ireland and having everything ripped away from her was a problem.
Also don't believe okay excited in 15th century ;)
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July 1, 2019
Brianagh O’Rourke is a star in the matchmaker business and strongly believes in happily-ever-afters…. just not herself. She’s convinced passion only exists in her dreams, and so agrees to marry a guy who at best she has lacklustre feelings for, luckily, she finds herself transported to Ireland, in the 15th century, before she can make any more mistakes – like marry the idiot.
Laird Nioclas MacWilliam just wants peace and happiness for his clan. The time for him to marry has come, and after waiting years for his ally to present their daughter he’s agreed to marry another (thank goodness when the alternative bride turns up, he knows not to marry her). But on the eve of his nuptials, a daring rescue brings his missing betrothed right into his arms. The two agree to play a game of being happily wed for 3 months and then Nioclas agrees to help her return home – to the future, but what neither count on is the growing feelings they develop for each other. However, before they can reach their HEA, they’re going to have to embrace their feelings and overcome an enemy that wants to destroy Nioclas and use Brianagh for her powers.
I used to love reading the subgenre of time-travel HR books, but it’s been an age since I have done so, when I came across this book to say I was excited was would be no understatement. It was a nice light read, but it lacked the crackle and hiss I wanted, when it came to the chemistry between the main characters and their interactions. I didn’t find myself spellbound, rather I was lightly engaged.
I did feel that Brianagh’s reaction to being in the past was far too smooth/calm, and the potential for some fun banter/interactions between the main characters, due to their cultural differences, was missed.
Laird Nioclas MacWilliam just wants peace and happiness for his clan. The time for him to marry has come, and after waiting years for his ally to present their daughter he’s agreed to marry another (thank goodness when the alternative bride turns up, he knows not to marry her). But on the eve of his nuptials, a daring rescue brings his missing betrothed right into his arms. The two agree to play a game of being happily wed for 3 months and then Nioclas agrees to help her return home – to the future, but what neither count on is the growing feelings they develop for each other. However, before they can reach their HEA, they’re going to have to embrace their feelings and overcome an enemy that wants to destroy Nioclas and use Brianagh for her powers.
I used to love reading the subgenre of time-travel HR books, but it’s been an age since I have done so, when I came across this book to say I was excited was would be no understatement. It was a nice light read, but it lacked the crackle and hiss I wanted, when it came to the chemistry between the main characters and their interactions. I didn’t find myself spellbound, rather I was lightly engaged.
I did feel that Brianagh’s reaction to being in the past was far too smooth/calm, and the potential for some fun banter/interactions between the main characters, due to their cultural differences, was missed.
March 24, 2016
WOW! Simply: WOW!!!
I enjoyed immensely this time travel book! One of the best I've readd! Really!!!
The story is very simple, but writen in a way that made me devour the pages!
Both MCs, Brianagh and Nioclas, were fantastic in their own way!
By the way, I kept calling Nioclas - Nicolas in my head while reading! LOL
It's very tame in the hotness department, but it is so sweet and tender that I didn't mind at all! The heat was there, but it was the love, the attention and the tenderness that made the romance so good!
I'm so looking forward to reading the next book!
I enjoyed immensely this time travel book! One of the best I've readd! Really!!!
The story is very simple, but writen in a way that made me devour the pages!
Both MCs, Brianagh and Nioclas, were fantastic in their own way!
By the way, I kept calling Nioclas - Nicolas in my head while reading! LOL
It's very tame in the hotness department, but it is so sweet and tender that I didn't mind at all! The heat was there, but it was the love, the attention and the tenderness that made the romance so good!
I'm so looking forward to reading the next book!
December 9, 2015
This is such a well written book a great story and characters. Highly recommended
April 11, 2020
The perfect word to describe this book is okay. I didn’t love it, I didn’t hate it, it was just mediocre. It’s pretty much identical to every time travel romance I’ve read and I think that’s mainly why it was just okay, it didn’t offer anything new. But it was a relatively quick, painless read that passed the time so I can’t complain too much!
November 20, 2015
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Summary
Brianagh O'Rourke is a successful matchmaker and runs a business matching couples in the most professional way. She wants passion and romance, but might just have to settle for less that what she has dreamed of to find. She has a dream mate, a man that is strong and passionate and cherishes her. She only wishes that her most recent fiancee could produce more feeling than platonic. When traveling with her cousin, Ry, she is shocked to learn that her true parents are still alive, she is a legacy, and in order to save their family line, she must go back in time for good. At first she thinks her cousin must be a little crazy, but when he brings her clothing to wear from the 1400's, and she is caught up in a whirlwind, and is kidnapped by men with swords....she knows that this is the real thing and she has never been more scared than now. She has always known safety and love from her family, but now she is brought into a world so unknown to her. The man she will need to marry is the man from her dreams, and her fate has been sealed....but Brianagh is determined to fight fate and return back to her home and family.
The Hero
Laird Nioclas MacWilliam is the laird of his clan, and all he wants to have is peace and security for those he protects and cares for. Every man, woman and child matter to him. Even if that means marrying a woman he doesn't know or love, so that his clan is safe. Nioclas is shocked to learn that the woman with whom he has been betrothed to for years, has returned and has been kidnapped by his enemy, he joins with the O'Rourke's clan to go rescue her. He marries her but makes a pact with her since she is so determined to return to her home...wherever that may be. But Nioclas cares for Brianagh and wants to keep her for life, is she would have him. Nioclas is one of those swoon-worthy heroes you just want more of. He is passionate, driven, protective and a bit possessive. He is a leader and has a commanding presence, but is also kind and understanding. He deals fairly with those he interacts with. He has a playful and mischievous side at times.
The Heroine
Brianagh, is close to her family. She believes her parents were killed when she was young, and was raised by her aunt and uncle and their children, and was loved as one of them. Brianagh runs her own business and she has a sense of which people would be best matched. She is a believer in true love and passion...she has seen it happen for many couples that she has matched, but she has yet to find that desire and love for a man other than her mysterious dream lover. Brianagh is a heroine you can easily relate with. She is kind, she has a talent when working with people, and she is driven to succeed. Her family is the most important thing in her life, and will do anything to be with them. What I grew to admire about her was her inner strength and fortitude.
Plot and Story Line
The Winter Laird is the first of a new series and is the first debut novel of this author, and what an adventurous ride this book turned out to be. I wasn't sure what I was expecting from it, but I am impressed with this author's ability to get this reader so drawn into a story and I couldn't put it down, I was having way too much with this one. I don't get a chance to read time travel romance too often, but Nancy Scanlon has created a beautifully woven story that will melt your heart and make you want more of this world she has created for us.
The romance is so emotionally driven, that is the primary focus of their relationship. The sexual tension is slowly built up, but it is very light in heat but I was A-okay with that one. Mostly because it had a different tone to it, and it was quite refreshing to just read a love story without a ton of sex in it. The writing is well mastered and will have you wrapped around its finger instantly. I loved the history, the story is based in the 1400's and I love this time period. Its a great setting for a historical romance, and it was quite moving to see the way this clan is with each other. I loved the commadarie between the characters most especially between Nioclas, Aiden ( his brother) and Donovan.
I really loved seeing Nioclas and Brianagh work through their issues, and come to common ground. In the beginning of their relationship, they have an agreement between them. But there is tension between them, they don't always agree and sometimes Nioclas can be a bit overbearing at times but Brianagh (being a modern woman) won't stand for it....which tends to amuse our hero rather than infuriate him. And the kisses....I will say this, for the lack of heat in the book, this author knows how to write a good kissing scene. I mean literally, I just wanted more kisses against the wall.
There is quite a bit of adventure and mysterious and a hint of danger that is put into the story that makes you just want more with each page you read. I couldn't get enough of the clan, of Nioclas and Brianagh, and the friendship between the three men. I enjoyed the way that Brianagh makes her place in the clan, by taking a professional look at what needs to be done. Because quite frankly, she is bored and needs something more to do than taking walks and stitching. She wants to be productful and she begins matchmaking---which was very entertaining. The story does leave us with a teaser, of the brother Aiden. I do hope in the next book we get to see him with his brother again. But who knows??!! If its anything like this book....we will be in for a wild and lively adventure!
The Cover
I really like this cover, mostly because of the background....I love the snow on the mountains and the lake. Makes me want to just enter the cover, so pretty. Love the blue themed colors, really adds the whole "winter" setting in a perfect way. And look at that lovely male specimen....I love his stance so confident and self-assured. I wouldn't want to go against him in battle that is for sure.
Overall View
The Winter Laird is a vibrant and stimulating romance that will make you sigh, it's a sweet romance that is packed with adventure, magic and a poignant love!! GUARANTEED TO MAKE YOU FALL HEAD OVER HEELS.
“The women are spying on us from under the benches,” Aidan said as he bounced on the balls of his feet, waiting for Nioclas to finish his drink. Admiring his sword, he added, “Been there for about ten minutes or so. I give them another twenty before they get cold and head back into the castle.”
Nioclas sighed. “I’m unsurprised. Does Erin still think no one knows about her forays into the lists?”
Aidan shrugged and quickly crossed swords with his brother. “Of course. I’m certainly not going to tell her. She’ll skewer me on the end of her sewing needle whilst I sleep.”
“Are you that afraid of a wee lass?” Nioclas mocked, jumping back and just avoiding the tip of Aidan’s blade. “I don’t think Donovan has much trouble with her.”
“Oh, I’m sure Donovan has complete control over his wife,” Aidan replied, and they both grinned as they hacked away at each other. “I don’t think he’s ever been privy to the full extent of Erin’s talents, though.”
Nioclas ducked and rolled out of Aidan’s path, springing back up and crossing blades once more. “I—oof—doubt he would’ve agreed to marry her, had he known.”
“Marriage. I don’t envy you, brother. Shackled for life. I hope she is worth it.” Aidan ducked, narrowly avoiding the at of Nioclas’s blade, then spun to avoid it again. “Saints, Nick, I was only—oof— is there something you care to talk about?” he asked sardonically as Nioclas’s attack intensified.
“No,” Nioclas replied curtly, swinging his arm relentlessly.
“Hmm. I believe there’s a tale there.” Aidan plunged his sword toward his brother, who leapt backward.
“None I care to tell you,” Nioclas replied, wiping the sweat off his forehead with the back of his hand.
“Well, you’re putting on quite a show for her.” They circled each other. “Mayhap this will be a love match yet—” Aidan’s sword went flying. He watched, open-mouthed, as it soared through the air. Someone called out, and men scattered as the blade went hilt-over-tip, landing about twenty feet from where they stood.
He looked at his brother in alarm. Nioclas had never bested him by forcing his sword from his hand. That was something they’d agreed long ago was unnecessary between them. War was never far, and neither wanted the other without his sword if it broke.
“Love is for fools,” Nioclas growled before stalking off.
It was a rare thing for Nioclas to lose his temper, especially in the lists. Bemused, Aidan watched him go, then threw a wink over to the source of his brother’s obvious discomfort.
Smirking at the feminine gasps, Aidan collected his sword and sauntered off.
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Summary
Brianagh O'Rourke is a successful matchmaker and runs a business matching couples in the most professional way. She wants passion and romance, but might just have to settle for less that what she has dreamed of to find. She has a dream mate, a man that is strong and passionate and cherishes her. She only wishes that her most recent fiancee could produce more feeling than platonic. When traveling with her cousin, Ry, she is shocked to learn that her true parents are still alive, she is a legacy, and in order to save their family line, she must go back in time for good. At first she thinks her cousin must be a little crazy, but when he brings her clothing to wear from the 1400's, and she is caught up in a whirlwind, and is kidnapped by men with swords....she knows that this is the real thing and she has never been more scared than now. She has always known safety and love from her family, but now she is brought into a world so unknown to her. The man she will need to marry is the man from her dreams, and her fate has been sealed....but Brianagh is determined to fight fate and return back to her home and family.
The Hero
Laird Nioclas MacWilliam is the laird of his clan, and all he wants to have is peace and security for those he protects and cares for. Every man, woman and child matter to him. Even if that means marrying a woman he doesn't know or love, so that his clan is safe. Nioclas is shocked to learn that the woman with whom he has been betrothed to for years, has returned and has been kidnapped by his enemy, he joins with the O'Rourke's clan to go rescue her. He marries her but makes a pact with her since she is so determined to return to her home...wherever that may be. But Nioclas cares for Brianagh and wants to keep her for life, is she would have him. Nioclas is one of those swoon-worthy heroes you just want more of. He is passionate, driven, protective and a bit possessive. He is a leader and has a commanding presence, but is also kind and understanding. He deals fairly with those he interacts with. He has a playful and mischievous side at times.
The Heroine
Brianagh, is close to her family. She believes her parents were killed when she was young, and was raised by her aunt and uncle and their children, and was loved as one of them. Brianagh runs her own business and she has a sense of which people would be best matched. She is a believer in true love and passion...she has seen it happen for many couples that she has matched, but she has yet to find that desire and love for a man other than her mysterious dream lover. Brianagh is a heroine you can easily relate with. She is kind, she has a talent when working with people, and she is driven to succeed. Her family is the most important thing in her life, and will do anything to be with them. What I grew to admire about her was her inner strength and fortitude.
Plot and Story Line
The Winter Laird is the first of a new series and is the first debut novel of this author, and what an adventurous ride this book turned out to be. I wasn't sure what I was expecting from it, but I am impressed with this author's ability to get this reader so drawn into a story and I couldn't put it down, I was having way too much with this one. I don't get a chance to read time travel romance too often, but Nancy Scanlon has created a beautifully woven story that will melt your heart and make you want more of this world she has created for us.
The romance is so emotionally driven, that is the primary focus of their relationship. The sexual tension is slowly built up, but it is very light in heat but I was A-okay with that one. Mostly because it had a different tone to it, and it was quite refreshing to just read a love story without a ton of sex in it. The writing is well mastered and will have you wrapped around its finger instantly. I loved the history, the story is based in the 1400's and I love this time period. Its a great setting for a historical romance, and it was quite moving to see the way this clan is with each other. I loved the commadarie between the characters most especially between Nioclas, Aiden ( his brother) and Donovan.
I really loved seeing Nioclas and Brianagh work through their issues, and come to common ground. In the beginning of their relationship, they have an agreement between them. But there is tension between them, they don't always agree and sometimes Nioclas can be a bit overbearing at times but Brianagh (being a modern woman) won't stand for it....which tends to amuse our hero rather than infuriate him. And the kisses....I will say this, for the lack of heat in the book, this author knows how to write a good kissing scene. I mean literally, I just wanted more kisses against the wall.
There is quite a bit of adventure and mysterious and a hint of danger that is put into the story that makes you just want more with each page you read. I couldn't get enough of the clan, of Nioclas and Brianagh, and the friendship between the three men. I enjoyed the way that Brianagh makes her place in the clan, by taking a professional look at what needs to be done. Because quite frankly, she is bored and needs something more to do than taking walks and stitching. She wants to be productful and she begins matchmaking---which was very entertaining. The story does leave us with a teaser, of the brother Aiden. I do hope in the next book we get to see him with his brother again. But who knows??!! If its anything like this book....we will be in for a wild and lively adventure!
The Cover
I really like this cover, mostly because of the background....I love the snow on the mountains and the lake. Makes me want to just enter the cover, so pretty. Love the blue themed colors, really adds the whole "winter" setting in a perfect way. And look at that lovely male specimen....I love his stance so confident and self-assured. I wouldn't want to go against him in battle that is for sure.
Overall View
The Winter Laird is a vibrant and stimulating romance that will make you sigh, it's a sweet romance that is packed with adventure, magic and a poignant love!! GUARANTEED TO MAKE YOU FALL HEAD OVER HEELS.
“The women are spying on us from under the benches,” Aidan said as he bounced on the balls of his feet, waiting for Nioclas to finish his drink. Admiring his sword, he added, “Been there for about ten minutes or so. I give them another twenty before they get cold and head back into the castle.”
Nioclas sighed. “I’m unsurprised. Does Erin still think no one knows about her forays into the lists?”
Aidan shrugged and quickly crossed swords with his brother. “Of course. I’m certainly not going to tell her. She’ll skewer me on the end of her sewing needle whilst I sleep.”
“Are you that afraid of a wee lass?” Nioclas mocked, jumping back and just avoiding the tip of Aidan’s blade. “I don’t think Donovan has much trouble with her.”
“Oh, I’m sure Donovan has complete control over his wife,” Aidan replied, and they both grinned as they hacked away at each other. “I don’t think he’s ever been privy to the full extent of Erin’s talents, though.”
Nioclas ducked and rolled out of Aidan’s path, springing back up and crossing blades once more. “I—oof—doubt he would’ve agreed to marry her, had he known.”
“Marriage. I don’t envy you, brother. Shackled for life. I hope she is worth it.” Aidan ducked, narrowly avoiding the at of Nioclas’s blade, then spun to avoid it again. “Saints, Nick, I was only—oof— is there something you care to talk about?” he asked sardonically as Nioclas’s attack intensified.
“No,” Nioclas replied curtly, swinging his arm relentlessly.
“Hmm. I believe there’s a tale there.” Aidan plunged his sword toward his brother, who leapt backward.
“None I care to tell you,” Nioclas replied, wiping the sweat off his forehead with the back of his hand.
“Well, you’re putting on quite a show for her.” They circled each other. “Mayhap this will be a love match yet—” Aidan’s sword went flying. He watched, open-mouthed, as it soared through the air. Someone called out, and men scattered as the blade went hilt-over-tip, landing about twenty feet from where they stood.
He looked at his brother in alarm. Nioclas had never bested him by forcing his sword from his hand. That was something they’d agreed long ago was unnecessary between them. War was never far, and neither wanted the other without his sword if it broke.
“Love is for fools,” Nioclas growled before stalking off.
It was a rare thing for Nioclas to lose his temper, especially in the lists. Bemused, Aidan watched him go, then threw a wink over to the source of his brother’s obvious discomfort.
Smirking at the feminine gasps, Aidan collected his sword and sauntered off.
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November 29, 2015
What a fabulous debut! From the first page I was completely sucked in...and I had no desire to put it down! Bri was such a likable heroine, I really found myself laughing at her reactions to her new "circumstances"! Nicolas was just...can we say Tasty? No...ok...quite tempting? The description of Nicolas would make any woman want to travel back into time!
If you follow my blog, you know I'm not really a big historical or time travel reader, but Nancy's writing was so remarkable that I didn't feel lost and the time travel aspect made it so much fun! For a Debut author, you will be surprised at how well written THE WINTER LAIRD is, the humor, the chemistry and the characters make for a perfect read!
If you follow my blog, you know I'm not really a big historical or time travel reader, but Nancy's writing was so remarkable that I didn't feel lost and the time travel aspect made it so much fun! For a Debut author, you will be surprised at how well written THE WINTER LAIRD is, the humor, the chemistry and the characters make for a perfect read!
December 26, 2015
**I received a free eARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Brianagh O'Rourke is a very successful matchmaker, every single one of her clients gets their own happily-ever-after, and all of them wish for her to find the same kind of happiness with her boyfriend. Matthew and Brianagh have been dating for a while, until one day he decides to pop the question and Bri says "okay".
Matthew is supposed to be perfect, but for some reason Bri isn't crazy about him, she just feels "comfortable" in their relationship. I never saw why she thought him perfect though, the guy didn't care one bit about her, and it was very obvious. We also get to know more about him later on and he just keeps getting worse. I really disliked him, especially because he blames Bri's personality for his own behavior (even though he obviously doesn't know her as well as he thinks) and I can't stand people like that.
So Bri agrees to marry Matthew, because what they have is "nice" and she thinks that's as good as it gets. She helps her clients get their happy ending, but she doesn't believe in her own. The only time she's really happy about her love life is during her dreams, next to the same man every single time, until one day he's killed in one of her dreams and she's supposed to be at fault for that.
Bri decides she needs a break, so she leaves Boston and goes on a trip to Ireland, the land of her ancestors, where she finds out that the story about the O'Rourke clan being time passage keepers is not just an old tale. Bri is suddenly brought to 15th century Ireland, and she can't believe her eyes when she sees the man of her dreams in the flesh.
Nioclas MacWilliam has been dreaming about the same woman for years, his brother's made him believe that those dreams are a sign from their mother, who was killed with the rest of her clan by her own husband. Because of his father's ruthlessness, Nioclas makes him leave the clan and becomes laird in his place, just at the young age of twelve, the same age he was when he promised to marry O'Rourke's daughter. But more than 20 years have passed and she's still nowhere to be seen, so he needs to find a wife soon, since he's expected to be married for his clan. Until one night he's part of a rescue mission, and the woman of his dreams is right in front of him.
Neither of them can understand what's happening. But they're supposed to be engaged since they were children, so they make a deal: three months they're to be married, then Nioclas will make sure Bri gets back home.
It's great to see that, even though she was sent to the past, Bri still manages to be her usual self, I think it'd be pretty hard for an independent woman of the 21st century to go back to a time where women were sold like cattle to the highest bidder. And the matchmaker in her just can't help but try to find a suitable partner for her new cook.
The romance plays a big part in the story, but we don't get to see too much of it. It's not exactly about them being together, but about them struggling with their feelings until they realize they love each other. It was actually pretty sweet.
Something I really enjoyed about this was that it's fast-paced. I hate it when something takes too long in a book to finally happen and you're just sitting there suffering, waiting for it to be over! Also, it was not too predictable, there were a few things that I didn't expect and I just wanted to keep reading to know how it would all end. And I know that books about time travel can easily get confusing, but this was very well done.
Definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys books about time travel :)
More reviews on my blog: Lipstick and Mocha
Brianagh O'Rourke is a very successful matchmaker, every single one of her clients gets their own happily-ever-after, and all of them wish for her to find the same kind of happiness with her boyfriend. Matthew and Brianagh have been dating for a while, until one day he decides to pop the question and Bri says "okay".
Matthew is supposed to be perfect, but for some reason Bri isn't crazy about him, she just feels "comfortable" in their relationship. I never saw why she thought him perfect though, the guy didn't care one bit about her, and it was very obvious. We also get to know more about him later on and he just keeps getting worse. I really disliked him, especially because he blames Bri's personality for his own behavior (even though he obviously doesn't know her as well as he thinks) and I can't stand people like that.
So Bri agrees to marry Matthew, because what they have is "nice" and she thinks that's as good as it gets. She helps her clients get their happy ending, but she doesn't believe in her own. The only time she's really happy about her love life is during her dreams, next to the same man every single time, until one day he's killed in one of her dreams and she's supposed to be at fault for that.
Bri decides she needs a break, so she leaves Boston and goes on a trip to Ireland, the land of her ancestors, where she finds out that the story about the O'Rourke clan being time passage keepers is not just an old tale. Bri is suddenly brought to 15th century Ireland, and she can't believe her eyes when she sees the man of her dreams in the flesh.
Nioclas MacWilliam has been dreaming about the same woman for years, his brother's made him believe that those dreams are a sign from their mother, who was killed with the rest of her clan by her own husband. Because of his father's ruthlessness, Nioclas makes him leave the clan and becomes laird in his place, just at the young age of twelve, the same age he was when he promised to marry O'Rourke's daughter. But more than 20 years have passed and she's still nowhere to be seen, so he needs to find a wife soon, since he's expected to be married for his clan. Until one night he's part of a rescue mission, and the woman of his dreams is right in front of him.
Neither of them can understand what's happening. But they're supposed to be engaged since they were children, so they make a deal: three months they're to be married, then Nioclas will make sure Bri gets back home.
It's great to see that, even though she was sent to the past, Bri still manages to be her usual self, I think it'd be pretty hard for an independent woman of the 21st century to go back to a time where women were sold like cattle to the highest bidder. And the matchmaker in her just can't help but try to find a suitable partner for her new cook.
The romance plays a big part in the story, but we don't get to see too much of it. It's not exactly about them being together, but about them struggling with their feelings until they realize they love each other. It was actually pretty sweet.
Something I really enjoyed about this was that it's fast-paced. I hate it when something takes too long in a book to finally happen and you're just sitting there suffering, waiting for it to be over! Also, it was not too predictable, there were a few things that I didn't expect and I just wanted to keep reading to know how it would all end. And I know that books about time travel can easily get confusing, but this was very well done.
Definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys books about time travel :)
More reviews on my blog: Lipstick and Mocha
November 19, 2015
The Winter Laird is an exceptional debut novel from Nancy Scanlon. This author will go on my must read list for her future works. This is a time travel romance set (for the most part) in 15th Century Ireland.
Brianagh O'Rourke runs a successful matchmaking business in present-day Boston, called Celtic Connections. While she is great at matching other couples, her own perfect match is eluding her. Plus she has some really intense dreams of a captivating Irish warrior who makes all real men pale in comparison. Then Bri learns a family legend about time travel and a child who is spirited away to safety. Could Bri be the key to the O'Rourke legend? I loved the way that Bri had with people - she could make the most prickly pear beam at her praise or diplomatic way of settling disputes. I wish I had this talent with people as it would come in mighty handy in my day to day life.
Nioclas MacWilliam has been laird of his clan since the age of 12, when he banished his sire for killing his mother. Nioclas has always put the clan first so when they start pressuring him to marry, Nioclas knows that he must do his duty. As he is preparing to marry for an alliance, the O'Rourke's show up demanding he carry through with an old agreement to marry the sole O'Rourke daughter. Nioclas and Bri are both stunned when they see one another for the first time as they both have a strong feeling of deja vu. Nioclas was a great hero - but what's not to love about an honorable Celtic warrior? One of the funniest parts of the book for me was Nioclas' reaction to the things Bri brought with her from the future... I found myself chuckling out loud at his observations regarding zippers, Coach purses and cell phones.
This was a sweet romance, low on the sultry scale, but fun all the same. A little more passion between our romantic interests would not have been amiss, but there was enough there to get my imagination going. The secondary characters in this story were great - I loved Aidan, Donovan, Reilly, Colin, and Erin. The villian, Burke, was also sufficiently demented and creepy.
One thing that threw me off was what seemed to be the rampant use of the English language. It was not clear whether Bri spoke predominantly in gaelic or English... but she would often use English slang and they would respond that they didn't know this word (i.e. "okay")... words which I am not sure have a gaelic translation. But as long as I overlooked that, the dialogue was engaging and well-written.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. 4 stars / 1 flame.
Brianagh O'Rourke runs a successful matchmaking business in present-day Boston, called Celtic Connections. While she is great at matching other couples, her own perfect match is eluding her. Plus she has some really intense dreams of a captivating Irish warrior who makes all real men pale in comparison. Then Bri learns a family legend about time travel and a child who is spirited away to safety. Could Bri be the key to the O'Rourke legend? I loved the way that Bri had with people - she could make the most prickly pear beam at her praise or diplomatic way of settling disputes. I wish I had this talent with people as it would come in mighty handy in my day to day life.
Nioclas MacWilliam has been laird of his clan since the age of 12, when he banished his sire for killing his mother. Nioclas has always put the clan first so when they start pressuring him to marry, Nioclas knows that he must do his duty. As he is preparing to marry for an alliance, the O'Rourke's show up demanding he carry through with an old agreement to marry the sole O'Rourke daughter. Nioclas and Bri are both stunned when they see one another for the first time as they both have a strong feeling of deja vu. Nioclas was a great hero - but what's not to love about an honorable Celtic warrior? One of the funniest parts of the book for me was Nioclas' reaction to the things Bri brought with her from the future... I found myself chuckling out loud at his observations regarding zippers, Coach purses and cell phones.
This was a sweet romance, low on the sultry scale, but fun all the same. A little more passion between our romantic interests would not have been amiss, but there was enough there to get my imagination going. The secondary characters in this story were great - I loved Aidan, Donovan, Reilly, Colin, and Erin. The villian, Burke, was also sufficiently demented and creepy.
One thing that threw me off was what seemed to be the rampant use of the English language. It was not clear whether Bri spoke predominantly in gaelic or English... but she would often use English slang and they would respond that they didn't know this word (i.e. "okay")... words which I am not sure have a gaelic translation. But as long as I overlooked that, the dialogue was engaging and well-written.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. 4 stars / 1 flame.
April 4, 2017
If you like time travel stories I am sure you will like The Winter Laird by Nancy Scanlon. I really enjoyed this light hearted fast pace no nonsense story. This is a "Very Clean Romance" story. Sex between husband and wife is implied but not described in any way. I would have liked a bit of sexual heat and interaction between Laird Nicolas MacWilliam's and Brianagh O'Rourke. After all he was her dream lover. The story follows all the same story patterns as most time travel. There was nothing in this one I haven't read in other similar genre stories. But it still was a good enough story to hold my interest!! I like all the characters well enough. I didn't like the Villain of the story Burke always getting the upper hand and winning over Nicolas and the MacWilliams Clan. I also would have like more interaction with Brianagh birth parents of the medieval times she was sent back too. There was just nothing there when she is sent back in the past and meets her mother Kathryn, her father Kierman and brother Brody and Reeves. Her mother did speak to her and explain why she was sent in the future with Reilly O'Malley has her protector. But then her family just ups and leaves.
May 17, 2016
Wonderful debut novel. Perfect for those who love adventure without a lot of steam.
Life was moving along well for Brianagh O’Rourke. Her matchmaking business was soaring, and her boyfriend just proposed to her. So why was she feeling trapped? A getaway was in order, but Brianagh had no idea just how far away her getaway would take her.
Laird Nioclas MacWilliams had waited as long as possible for the woman promised him over twenty years earlier to return to Ireland and be his wife. If he didn’t take another for a bride soon, there could be trouble within the clans. When the O’Rourke daughter suddenly appears, speaking strangely, and telling him tales of a faraway world much different from his own in 13th Century Ireland, he only begins to understand the meaning of trouble.
It takes Brianagh a while to believe where her cousin, Reilly, has taken her but it only takes a moment to recognize the man who has lived, and loved her, in her dreams for nearly a lifetime. Together, can they protect the future by saving the past? When it’s time to leave Nick to return to the future, will she be able to, or will love urge her stay?
With a delightful sense of OUTLANDER time travel, THE WINTER LAIRD is quite different actually. Unlike Claire, Brianagh discovers she is actually from the past rather than the future even though she has a hard time believing it. Her destiny lies with Nioclas MacWilliams in the past yet she is spoiled by the delights of living in the future. So which will she choose, the love of her Irish Warrior or hot running water and the spoils of the 21st Century? You’ll have to read this amazing debut novel by Nancy Scanlon to find out.
Mind you, I usually read books with steamy sex scenes in them but rarely mention them except in passing unless the book is a truly page melting, but you’ll not find any of that in THE WINTER LAIRD. I have to admit, it hinted at some steam between Nick and Brianagh but that existed only in their dreams. The heat level of this one is very low but if you’re looking for a good story, a well thought out time travel plan, and wonderful characters, THE WINTER LAIRD by Nancy Scanlon is a must read. I am eager to see what comes next. Nancy left us with some mysteries that have me intrigued and I do hope she follows up on them in the rest of the series. Aidan couldn’t have just disappeared…or could he?
I highly recommend THE WINTER LAIRD, book one in the Mists of Fate series by Nancy Scanlon to anyone who loves something different, something thought provoking, action-filled, humorous, charming, and starring some characters that you just want to revisit again and again.
***eARC provided by author in exchange for an honest and unscripted review.
Life was moving along well for Brianagh O’Rourke. Her matchmaking business was soaring, and her boyfriend just proposed to her. So why was she feeling trapped? A getaway was in order, but Brianagh had no idea just how far away her getaway would take her.
Laird Nioclas MacWilliams had waited as long as possible for the woman promised him over twenty years earlier to return to Ireland and be his wife. If he didn’t take another for a bride soon, there could be trouble within the clans. When the O’Rourke daughter suddenly appears, speaking strangely, and telling him tales of a faraway world much different from his own in 13th Century Ireland, he only begins to understand the meaning of trouble.
It takes Brianagh a while to believe where her cousin, Reilly, has taken her but it only takes a moment to recognize the man who has lived, and loved her, in her dreams for nearly a lifetime. Together, can they protect the future by saving the past? When it’s time to leave Nick to return to the future, will she be able to, or will love urge her stay?
With a delightful sense of OUTLANDER time travel, THE WINTER LAIRD is quite different actually. Unlike Claire, Brianagh discovers she is actually from the past rather than the future even though she has a hard time believing it. Her destiny lies with Nioclas MacWilliams in the past yet she is spoiled by the delights of living in the future. So which will she choose, the love of her Irish Warrior or hot running water and the spoils of the 21st Century? You’ll have to read this amazing debut novel by Nancy Scanlon to find out.
Mind you, I usually read books with steamy sex scenes in them but rarely mention them except in passing unless the book is a truly page melting, but you’ll not find any of that in THE WINTER LAIRD. I have to admit, it hinted at some steam between Nick and Brianagh but that existed only in their dreams. The heat level of this one is very low but if you’re looking for a good story, a well thought out time travel plan, and wonderful characters, THE WINTER LAIRD by Nancy Scanlon is a must read. I am eager to see what comes next. Nancy left us with some mysteries that have me intrigued and I do hope she follows up on them in the rest of the series. Aidan couldn’t have just disappeared…or could he?
I highly recommend THE WINTER LAIRD, book one in the Mists of Fate series by Nancy Scanlon to anyone who loves something different, something thought provoking, action-filled, humorous, charming, and starring some characters that you just want to revisit again and again.
***eARC provided by author in exchange for an honest and unscripted review.
November 25, 2015
Debut novel? Well you sure fooled me. The Winter Laird is so well written, flowing smoothly with a wonderful cast of characters, a well thought out plot plenty of suspense and a touch of humor...and even had me tearing up in a few spots. And it's all done without explicit scenes (this is closed-door intimacy)...but still has you desperate for every single page. It reads like it came from a seasoned author, which has me really excited for more books in this series (or just from the author in general!).
Brianagh is one heck of a feisty female lead...it's always fun to have a modern-day female character catapulted back in time, then watch as she copes with medieval-era challenges. I hate though how she expects to just settle for modern-day Matthew (yeah, I'll tell you now I didn't care for his character right from the start). Nioclas at first seems a bit aloof, but as time goes on we get to see him warm up toward Brianagh, and though their relationship slowly develops, there's so much else going on to keep your attention that you don't even realize when they've become so important to each other.
The Winter Laird is packed with suspense, tension, some fun humor that you'll only get with a time travel romance, and a sweet relationship that will tug at your heart...and for me it was a wonderfully satisfying read that I'll definitely be re-reading in the future. 5 stars, and I'd definitely recommend this for anyone who loves time travel/historical romance stories! I can't wait to read Aidan and Colin's stories once they come out...and I'm really hoping we get one for Reilly and James as well!
Brianagh is one heck of a feisty female lead...it's always fun to have a modern-day female character catapulted back in time, then watch as she copes with medieval-era challenges. I hate though how she expects to just settle for modern-day Matthew (yeah, I'll tell you now I didn't care for his character right from the start). Nioclas at first seems a bit aloof, but as time goes on we get to see him warm up toward Brianagh, and though their relationship slowly develops, there's so much else going on to keep your attention that you don't even realize when they've become so important to each other.
The Winter Laird is packed with suspense, tension, some fun humor that you'll only get with a time travel romance, and a sweet relationship that will tug at your heart...and for me it was a wonderfully satisfying read that I'll definitely be re-reading in the future. 5 stars, and I'd definitely recommend this for anyone who loves time travel/historical romance stories! I can't wait to read Aidan and Colin's stories once they come out...and I'm really hoping we get one for Reilly and James as well!
November 7, 2025
Well... I didn't love it, but it was ok.
I really wanted to read a love story and the time travel is always a good idea (at least for me). I also enjoy reading books at the seasons they take part in, so The Winter Laird was a winner, a sure choice for December.
Brianagh is a successful modern woman that just got engaged, but isn't quite sure she wants to be married to her boyfriend. There's also the thing that she has those vivid dreams about a soldier of some sort that he's very hot and sexy and really, everything she wishes could find in a man.
Who would have thought, this man actually exists and shares the same dreams. The only problem, he lives in 1400s and in another country. Thankfully, Brianagh, without knowing it, is actually from that time, but was saved and hidden in the future - for safety.
Aaaaaanyway, this wasn't exactly my cup of tea, but it was nice to mentally travel to 1400s Ireland. It was a cosy winter romance, but I didn't really care for the characters.
I really wanted to read a love story and the time travel is always a good idea (at least for me). I also enjoy reading books at the seasons they take part in, so The Winter Laird was a winner, a sure choice for December.
Brianagh is a successful modern woman that just got engaged, but isn't quite sure she wants to be married to her boyfriend. There's also the thing that she has those vivid dreams about a soldier of some sort that he's very hot and sexy and really, everything she wishes could find in a man.
Who would have thought, this man actually exists and shares the same dreams. The only problem, he lives in 1400s and in another country. Thankfully, Brianagh, without knowing it, is actually from that time, but was saved and hidden in the future - for safety.
Aaaaaanyway, this wasn't exactly my cup of tea, but it was nice to mentally travel to 1400s Ireland. It was a cosy winter romance, but I didn't really care for the characters.
November 23, 2015
WINTER LAIRD is an entertaining time travel page turner with the feel of an old school historical romance. Even with all of the jumping through time this read like a good historical romance. I got the same joy from reading it as I do when I reread one of Julie Garwood's historical romances. Yes, it was that good!
WINTER LAIRD is more sweet than spicy, so there aren't any overly descriptive sex scenes. Although I am a connoisseur of good smut, the lack of erotic detail was not missed at all. The romance and the well written and developed story is the main focus. If you are looking for a little break from overt sex, billionaires, bikers, and shifters it's hard to not enjoy a man in a kilt. WINTER LAIRD is a winner for readers who enjoy old fashioned romance with a twist.
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
You can find more from me at
•(♥).•*Monlatable Book Reviews*•.(♥)•
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/
WINTER LAIRD is more sweet than spicy, so there aren't any overly descriptive sex scenes. Although I am a connoisseur of good smut, the lack of erotic detail was not missed at all. The romance and the well written and developed story is the main focus. If you are looking for a little break from overt sex, billionaires, bikers, and shifters it's hard to not enjoy a man in a kilt. WINTER LAIRD is a winner for readers who enjoy old fashioned romance with a twist.
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
You can find more from me at
•(♥).•*Monlatable Book Reviews*•.(♥)•
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/
November 14, 2021
For Love 💘 of the Laird
ADULT Historical Medieval Irish 🏰🔪🍀 Time Travel Romance💕 and Adventure.
I don't normally read time travel romances💕 anymore, but this one is so good, so well written, that I might start again!
This is a great book that has Brianagh💃💋 O'Rourke, a present day wedding consultant and matchmaker, sent back in time to become the bride of Laird Nioclas MacWilliam🐺🍆⛲🔪, in an effort to fix the timeline of her people and descendents.
Well worth reading, it's a well thought out and executed novel by author Nancy Scanion📚.
The one thing I was disappointed in was the lack of use of the vernacular speech common to the time period. The author used contemporary English dialogue throughout, which hurt the story.
ADULT Historical Medieval Irish 🏰🔪🍀 Time Travel Romance💕 and Adventure.
I don't normally read time travel romances💕 anymore, but this one is so good, so well written, that I might start again!
This is a great book that has Brianagh💃💋 O'Rourke, a present day wedding consultant and matchmaker, sent back in time to become the bride of Laird Nioclas MacWilliam🐺🍆⛲🔪, in an effort to fix the timeline of her people and descendents.
Well worth reading, it's a well thought out and executed novel by author Nancy Scanion📚.
The one thing I was disappointed in was the lack of use of the vernacular speech common to the time period. The author used contemporary English dialogue throughout, which hurt the story.
November 11, 2015
A time travel romance has always been one of my most absolute favorite themes of stories. It saddens me to think that authors of the modern world of shy away from this unique and wonderful plot. So when I discovered that this book featured a time travel romance I knew I had to read this book and I am so happy that I did because I am still unbelievably stunned by how beautiful this story turned out to be.
This is my first introduction to Scanlon as an author and I was not disappointed by what I found. The entire book is so well written that is so some of the best writing that I have ever had the pleasure of reviewing. The story itself as such a strong, bold structure of a plot that the romance just lifted into time itself. Needless to confess I am hooked for life on the author's books.
My one flaw with the story is that at the beginning it did seem to drag on a little more than I wanted it too. This might be my own personal fault however because I was eager to get moving forward in my readings. Yet, I wish the author would have speed up the beginning a little more if nothing more than to feed my anxious behavior.
I would highly recommend reading this romance novel this season. I loved every moment of it. This book has everything that romance lovers have learned to fall in love with and I could not ask for a better story than what Scanlon has delivered to her readers.
-This review was submitted to all respectable parties PRIOR to posting the review to GoodReads.
This is my first introduction to Scanlon as an author and I was not disappointed by what I found. The entire book is so well written that is so some of the best writing that I have ever had the pleasure of reviewing. The story itself as such a strong, bold structure of a plot that the romance just lifted into time itself. Needless to confess I am hooked for life on the author's books.
My one flaw with the story is that at the beginning it did seem to drag on a little more than I wanted it too. This might be my own personal fault however because I was eager to get moving forward in my readings. Yet, I wish the author would have speed up the beginning a little more if nothing more than to feed my anxious behavior.
I would highly recommend reading this romance novel this season. I loved every moment of it. This book has everything that romance lovers have learned to fall in love with and I could not ask for a better story than what Scanlon has delivered to her readers.
-This review was submitted to all respectable parties PRIOR to posting the review to GoodReads.
August 10, 2023
The usual trouble with such romances - lacking research and resulting anachronisms, but also not believable romantic interest between the leads.
The potato the cook and the heroine were peeling at one point was introduced to Ireland in 1590, not in 1440s, since Columbus did not reach the Americas yet. This one makes me look at the author and the proofreader with deep disappointment. I can perhaps give them a pass on the bottled wine collection of the laird, but it too makes my eye twitch in annoyance because wine was usually shipped in barrels - regular shipments in glass bottles began in 17th century when it was possible to produce quality thick glass on a larger scale without bankrupting yourself. I confirmed the date with just one search on google.
No doubt there are other problems with historical research and problems with architecture, clothing, and furniture, but just like the author, I can't be bothered to reasearch it. I could forgive lots if the story were any good, but it isn't. The chemistry between the leads is not convincing at all, and the ending is so stupid - there shoudl be some tension, some high stakes but it just fizzles out. Not to mention the people are magically free of the common childhood diseases and common pests (like lice, fleas, smallpox, various fevers...). I'd hope they innoculated the heroine agains smallpox at least, if they wish her to survive.
So, not recommended for people who remember some of their elementary school history, or who wish for a good romance story. Expect zero heat.
The potato the cook and the heroine were peeling at one point was introduced to Ireland in 1590, not in 1440s, since Columbus did not reach the Americas yet. This one makes me look at the author and the proofreader with deep disappointment. I can perhaps give them a pass on the bottled wine collection of the laird, but it too makes my eye twitch in annoyance because wine was usually shipped in barrels - regular shipments in glass bottles began in 17th century when it was possible to produce quality thick glass on a larger scale without bankrupting yourself. I confirmed the date with just one search on google.
No doubt there are other problems with historical research and problems with architecture, clothing, and furniture, but just like the author, I can't be bothered to reasearch it. I could forgive lots if the story were any good, but it isn't. The chemistry between the leads is not convincing at all, and the ending is so stupid - there shoudl be some tension, some high stakes but it just fizzles out. Not to mention the people are magically free of the common childhood diseases and common pests (like lice, fleas, smallpox, various fevers...). I'd hope they innoculated the heroine agains smallpox at least, if they wish her to survive.
So, not recommended for people who remember some of their elementary school history, or who wish for a good romance story. Expect zero heat.
May 2, 2021
Outlander-lite was how I described it to a friend, nice light read to offset some of my other reading.
December 8, 2020
Great story, and lovely explanation of the time travel and prophecy. The only thing that brought this story down was how unlikely the heroine was. Very frustrating, stubborn and insistent on disregarding traditions etc.
March 5, 2023
Completely predictable but a fun, fast read.
January 1, 2022
⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I really loved this book. The plot was intriguing and entire story, especially that ending, had me on the edge of my seat. I loved the concept of time travel and how it was explained and I enjoyed the family & friend dynamics.
I admired how hard working Bri was. Her situation wasn’t ideal but she made the most of it and assisted Nick and his clan in any way she could. Ry & Bri’s relationship was so cute. He was the big brother she never had and many of their scenes together had me close to tears. He was protective of her and ensured that she got her happily ever after. He was also snarky and had a penchant for angering/annoying others (Aiden & Nioclas) 😆
The relationship between Nioclas and Brianagh was incredibly romantic and the chemistry was insane. I loved their banters and teasing and although they started off on the wrong foot, I enjoyed watching Nick woo his wife and seeing them both fall in love. Nioclas was so romantic and charming that he easily made his way on my list of favorite book boyfriends 🥰 Can’t wait to read more of this series. (BOOK BOYFRIEND #12 🥰)
CONTENT
Romance: Clean, Kissing (PG-13), Off page intimacy.
Violence: Moderate
Language: Mild
I admired how hard working Bri was. Her situation wasn’t ideal but she made the most of it and assisted Nick and his clan in any way she could. Ry & Bri’s relationship was so cute. He was the big brother she never had and many of their scenes together had me close to tears. He was protective of her and ensured that she got her happily ever after. He was also snarky and had a penchant for angering/annoying others (Aiden & Nioclas) 😆
The relationship between Nioclas and Brianagh was incredibly romantic and the chemistry was insane. I loved their banters and teasing and although they started off on the wrong foot, I enjoyed watching Nick woo his wife and seeing them both fall in love. Nioclas was so romantic and charming that he easily made his way on my list of favorite book boyfriends 🥰 Can’t wait to read more of this series. (BOOK BOYFRIEND #12 🥰)
CONTENT
Romance: Clean, Kissing (PG-13), Off page intimacy.
Violence: Moderate
Language: Mild
December 5, 2017
I feel really bad giving this book only 2 stars, especially as the author replied to my previous question about it (which was really nice) but I just could not like it.
I think I went in with too high expectations due to all the positive reviews I read about it, but didn't realize it was so PG (which is fine! Just not what I was looking for).
I think I would have LOVED this book when I was 14, but not as a 27 year old. And I still love good YA.
My biggest problem with this book was the main character. She thinks she "doesn't deserve" a happily ever after and people like her just don't get to have passion in their lives and agrees to marry a man she CLEARLY doesn't like, but she is so.... disconnected she doesn't even realize she doesn't like him? If that makes any sense. And then seems unfazed by time travel, doesn't miss her family or "fiance" and there is very little mention of missing 2015. There is maybe a sentence apiece on how she misses these things but she never seems to actually feel it. Yet remains adamant she needs to return to the future (why? all the fun you were having there? Oh wait) and completely ignores the man LITERALLY from her dreams being all over her.
I wanted more sex, more passion (for ANYTHING, not just sex) and more character development. Everything seems to just be told to the reader, not felt at all.
Even though Brianagh was a successful woman, she seemed really dumb. Like she witnesses celebrations for the pagan new year and asks Nioclas about it, and then a few chapters later she wonders how they celebrate Christmas and thinks "surely not the commercialized way we do in 2015". Uh, no shit? It's the 1400's. That's not even worth wondering.
A shame as it started off pretty decent, but started going downhill around the time Brianagh seemed to be lusting after all her cousins, yet seemed to not feel those same emotions with Nioclas.
I wanted to love this, but I won't be reading any sequels. I skimmed the last few chapters as I just found I didn't care about the characters that much.
I think I went in with too high expectations due to all the positive reviews I read about it, but didn't realize it was so PG (which is fine! Just not what I was looking for).
I think I would have LOVED this book when I was 14, but not as a 27 year old. And I still love good YA.
My biggest problem with this book was the main character. She thinks she "doesn't deserve" a happily ever after and people like her just don't get to have passion in their lives and agrees to marry a man she CLEARLY doesn't like, but she is so.... disconnected she doesn't even realize she doesn't like him? If that makes any sense. And then seems unfazed by time travel, doesn't miss her family or "fiance" and there is very little mention of missing 2015. There is maybe a sentence apiece on how she misses these things but she never seems to actually feel it. Yet remains adamant she needs to return to the future (why? all the fun you were having there? Oh wait) and completely ignores the man LITERALLY from her dreams being all over her.
I wanted more sex, more passion (for ANYTHING, not just sex) and more character development. Everything seems to just be told to the reader, not felt at all.
Even though Brianagh was a successful woman, she seemed really dumb. Like she witnesses celebrations for the pagan new year and asks Nioclas about it, and then a few chapters later she wonders how they celebrate Christmas and thinks "surely not the commercialized way we do in 2015". Uh, no shit? It's the 1400's. That's not even worth wondering.
A shame as it started off pretty decent, but started going downhill around the time Brianagh seemed to be lusting after all her cousins, yet seemed to not feel those same emotions with Nioclas.
I wanted to love this, but I won't be reading any sequels. I skimmed the last few chapters as I just found I didn't care about the characters that much.
June 13, 2023
Put on your traveling shoes
Brianagh O'Rourke runs a successful matchmaking business, Celtic Connections, in Boston. When she travels to Ireland and is transported to 1467, she learns that she must fulfill the O'Rourke legacy by marrying Nioclas MacWilliam. From that point on, nothing goes smoothly.
This is the first in a series of time-traveling stories, and the storyline, the setting, the characters, everything about it is a pleasure to read.
13
Brianagh O'Rourke runs a successful matchmaking business, Celtic Connections, in Boston. When she travels to Ireland and is transported to 1467, she learns that she must fulfill the O'Rourke legacy by marrying Nioclas MacWilliam. From that point on, nothing goes smoothly.
This is the first in a series of time-traveling stories, and the storyline, the setting, the characters, everything about it is a pleasure to read.
13
October 25, 2015
Delightful debut novel by Nancy Scanlon! This first book in a magical time travel series provides enough characters to keep going for quite some time. I am eager to see which one of the characters will have his or her story told next.
Brianagh O’Rourke heads off to Ireland for some R&R with her cousin Reilly only to find herself in a completely different time period. She is not happy with her situation and believes she will return to the present and the life she left behind even though her cousin indicates that this is not an option. Meeting Laird Nioclas “Nick” MacWilliams throws a wrench into her plans and also stirs her in more ways than one.
This book has a villain to hate, strong warriors with soft hearts, women with purpose and a story that made me smile, made me happy and made me want…
Thank you to NetGalley and Diversion Books for the copy of this book to read and review.
Brianagh O’Rourke heads off to Ireland for some R&R with her cousin Reilly only to find herself in a completely different time period. She is not happy with her situation and believes she will return to the present and the life she left behind even though her cousin indicates that this is not an option. Meeting Laird Nioclas “Nick” MacWilliams throws a wrench into her plans and also stirs her in more ways than one.
This book has a villain to hate, strong warriors with soft hearts, women with purpose and a story that made me smile, made me happy and made me want…
Thank you to NetGalley and Diversion Books for the copy of this book to read and review.
June 23, 2017
This book series is like watching black n white tv after your used to coloured. It lacks all the details that make u engage and get lost in a story. Example of missed opportunity 21 century girl time travels to 15 th century Ireland but did hardly registers, she hardly reacts to the new environment, language or culture. A mother who has not seen her daughter in two decades hardly shows any emotions. The story is okay but without details it does nothing for me.
October 22, 2015
Finally a good time travel! Can't wait to read the rest in the series.
June 7, 2016
3.5 Stars
October 12, 2016
No thanks
The story had great potential. Sadly zero details in the romance department . If you don't care about sex scenes it was ok
The story had great potential. Sadly zero details in the romance department . If you don't care about sex scenes it was ok
May 31, 2022
Brianagh runs a matchmaking company and she is successful in matching her clients with love. She has been having dreams about her a medieval warrior whom she loved and saw him getting killed by a sword. Her aunt tells her a story about their family's legacy and the O'Rourke clan can travel through time. She has been given a brooch that was crafted with fine details and it has a symbol of a hawk on it. When she and Reilly went to Dowth, he told her that she was not from the future and that he protected her by taking her away from her parents to ensure that she lives. Brianagh does not believe what he says and pretends that they are doing a role play. Then, everything changes when they travelled back in time and her cousin fights with a warrior wearing the same clothes which he later killed during the fight. Nioclas made a vow to marry the O'Rourke when he was young. It's been years when he made that promised but the clan did not sent any news of whether his betrothed has been seen so he agreed to marry someone else. Bri recognizes that the man was the same person from her dreams and she is surprised that he is real and not just an imagination. Nioclas is astonished to see the woman in his dreams and he denies to himself that it was not possible that she was the same woman. Brianagh still cannot believe of concept of time travel as she asks her cousin about the reason why he took her to this particular time. She was told that her true destiny was here and not about her business back at her home. Later on, Nioclas tells her about the betrothal agreement and they proved that she is indeed the same daughter whom they believed is the chosen one. He declares that they married tonight and they made a deal for her to stay for three months to sent her back home as she wishes. Nioclas cannot resist the temptation to kiss his beautiful wife and he is afraid that he might find their agreement to be real instead. He is intrigued by Brianagh's personality especially her intelligence in dealing with the clan. Brianagh keeps refusing that she is not a legacy and she is not destined to be with him. 
The story is well-written and I love how it has a good plot. Brianagh and Nioclas has a great chemistry and the sparks ignite between them. Nioclas is such a romantic man who makes Bri's heart full of love whereas Brianagh is a strong, intelligent, and diligent woman. It has some action scenes, sweet moments, banters, and tension that makes the book interesting and enjoyable to read. I love how they finally have a HEA epilogue I definitely recommend reading this book for those who love to read time travel romance.
The story is well-written and I love how it has a good plot. Brianagh and Nioclas has a great chemistry and the sparks ignite between them. Nioclas is such a romantic man who makes Bri's heart full of love whereas Brianagh is a strong, intelligent, and diligent woman. It has some action scenes, sweet moments, banters, and tension that makes the book interesting and enjoyable to read. I love how they finally have a HEA epilogue I definitely recommend reading this book for those who love to read time travel romance.Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews