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The Oxenburg Princes #3
Mad for the Plaid
Nikolai Romanovin, a royal prince of Oxenburg, has travelled to the deepest wilds of Scotland to rescue his grandmother the Grand Duchess, who was abducted while visiting an old friend in the Highlands. Wanting to avoid an international incident, Nik plans to quietly slip into enemy territory disguised as a groom at Castle Cromartie. But his plans go awry when he falls under the cool gray gaze of the laird’s daughter.
Pragmatic and clever, Mairi MacKenzie has been left in charge of the family estate and her unruly grandmother in her father’s absence. Something about the new groom catches her eyes, and makes her think he’s not who he pretends to be—and even more shockingly, stirs her senses. Is it his obviously educated manners? His arrogant, non-servant-like presence? It’s certainly not his towering, powerful form, or slumberous, inviting green eyes!
After confronting the imposter and learning the truth, Mairi agrees to help Nik—for she, too, understands difficult relatives and would do anything for family. Soon their secret partnership leads to growing respect, searing kisses, and then something far more perilous. And when their quest turns dangerous, Mairi and Nik must discover this unknown enemy while facing the dangerous demands of their own unruly hearts.
Pragmatic and clever, Mairi MacKenzie has been left in charge of the family estate and her unruly grandmother in her father’s absence. Something about the new groom catches her eyes, and makes her think he’s not who he pretends to be—and even more shockingly, stirs her senses. Is it his obviously educated manners? His arrogant, non-servant-like presence? It’s certainly not his towering, powerful form, or slumberous, inviting green eyes!
After confronting the imposter and learning the truth, Mairi agrees to help Nik—for she, too, understands difficult relatives and would do anything for family. Soon their secret partnership leads to growing respect, searing kisses, and then something far more perilous. And when their quest turns dangerous, Mairi and Nik must discover this unknown enemy while facing the dangerous demands of their own unruly hearts.
368 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 30, 2016
83 people are currently reading
1299 people want to read
About the author
Karen Hawkins
59 books2,978 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Karen Hawkins writes novels that have been praised as touching, witty, charming, and heartwarming. A native Southerner who grew up in the mountains of East Tennessee where storytelling is a way of life, Karen recently moved to frosty New England with her beloved husband and multiple foster dogs. The Dove Pond books are a nod to the thousands of books that opened doors to more adventures, places, and discoveries than she ever imagined possible. To find out more about Karen, follow her at:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
August 30, 2016
3.5 stars
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Ailsa has been given the heavy responsibility of running her family's estate while her father is in London. Her youth and gender are against her but through her wits and determination, she is winning the people over. When two guests of hers get kidnapped, she feels personally responsible and wants to lead the charge to get them back.
Nik is a royal prince from Oxenburg and the heir; he has always known responsibility. When he learns that his beloved grandmother has been kidnapped he advises a way to personally go and rescue her.
Ailsa and Nik have a lot in common and sparks fly when they're together but their stubbornness might just keep them apart.
"Kisses are never to be regretted."
Third in the Oxenburg Princes series, we finally get to the future king's story, Nik. He has previously been shown to be stoic, impervious, and a bit of a playboy. Here we see that he has learned to wear many faces as he is consciously aware that the fate of his country and its people rests on his shoulders. The intrigues of constant maneuvering in the Oxenburg court, along with a betrayal in his youth, have made him build a wall around himself and his trust is hard won. I liked how the author showcased his character, whether he was made aware of his privileges by Ailsa, how much he took to heart his responsibilities, or the way Ailsa challenged him and intrigued him; he felt real. Ailsa's character also had wonderful depth, if not a bit side-eyeing with how she's in charge and traveling alone with a group of men. She wasn't feisty and head strong simply to relay "strength" but wonderfully smart, capable, and willing to listen. It was refreshing and delightful to have two characters that didn't vie to save or overtake one another but worked together.
Now, he found himself intrigued by a woman. Intrigued, challenged, and interested.
The story started off with a more gradual pace as the set-up builds and we learn the characters separately. If you're looking for an opposition to the many insta-love/lust stories out there, this is it. As our couple travels together, they slowly learn one another and we the reader begin to see how good they will be for another. Ailsa has one idea with how to deal with the kidnappers while Nik has another and through their individual directions we see how, even though both have dealt with responsibility, Nik's has been more worldly and Ailsa still has a bit of overly trusting to her. This comes into play with Nik pushing her away because he doesn't want to see her crushed by his courts devious maneuverings.
She'd never wanted a man before. Not in this way. But that first kiss had haunted her nights and ruled her days. He was just so damned delicious, and she'd never been able to turn away from a dessert.
This is mostly a road romance with our couple traveling to rescue the hostages with a bit of mystery added in as to why they were kidnapped and two secondary characters being played off one another for a possible secret villain. I didn't mind the slower pace as our couple got to know one another but I can see a few readers finding the middle a bit slow, the biggest problem I had with the story was the ending, it kind of fell apart. The villain didn't make a lot of sense, it seems they could have achieved what they wanted by staying loyal and the organization of the whole kidnapping had a lot of loose ends (reason for ransom note, the people who actually did the kidnapping - who and why were they helping). While I very much appreciated the slower building of Nik and Ailsa's relationship, I would have liked to have seen more passion from them towards the end but that could be my more fairy tale drama piece of heart talking. The two sex scenes felt rushed and it almost felt like Nik had to be bullied into the decision to be with Ailsa instead of coming to it on his own.
I felt this was the best book of the series with a hero who was handsomely stalwart and a heroine who beautifully showcased the calm strength of women. If looking to escape the abundant insta-love/lust out there, this would be a lovely slow burning choice.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Ailsa has been given the heavy responsibility of running her family's estate while her father is in London. Her youth and gender are against her but through her wits and determination, she is winning the people over. When two guests of hers get kidnapped, she feels personally responsible and wants to lead the charge to get them back.
Nik is a royal prince from Oxenburg and the heir; he has always known responsibility. When he learns that his beloved grandmother has been kidnapped he advises a way to personally go and rescue her.
Ailsa and Nik have a lot in common and sparks fly when they're together but their stubbornness might just keep them apart.
"Kisses are never to be regretted."
Third in the Oxenburg Princes series, we finally get to the future king's story, Nik. He has previously been shown to be stoic, impervious, and a bit of a playboy. Here we see that he has learned to wear many faces as he is consciously aware that the fate of his country and its people rests on his shoulders. The intrigues of constant maneuvering in the Oxenburg court, along with a betrayal in his youth, have made him build a wall around himself and his trust is hard won. I liked how the author showcased his character, whether he was made aware of his privileges by Ailsa, how much he took to heart his responsibilities, or the way Ailsa challenged him and intrigued him; he felt real. Ailsa's character also had wonderful depth, if not a bit side-eyeing with how she's in charge and traveling alone with a group of men. She wasn't feisty and head strong simply to relay "strength" but wonderfully smart, capable, and willing to listen. It was refreshing and delightful to have two characters that didn't vie to save or overtake one another but worked together.
Now, he found himself intrigued by a woman. Intrigued, challenged, and interested.
The story started off with a more gradual pace as the set-up builds and we learn the characters separately. If you're looking for an opposition to the many insta-love/lust stories out there, this is it. As our couple travels together, they slowly learn one another and we the reader begin to see how good they will be for another. Ailsa has one idea with how to deal with the kidnappers while Nik has another and through their individual directions we see how, even though both have dealt with responsibility, Nik's has been more worldly and Ailsa still has a bit of overly trusting to her. This comes into play with Nik pushing her away because he doesn't want to see her crushed by his courts devious maneuverings.
She'd never wanted a man before. Not in this way. But that first kiss had haunted her nights and ruled her days. He was just so damned delicious, and she'd never been able to turn away from a dessert.
This is mostly a road romance with our couple traveling to rescue the hostages with a bit of mystery added in as to why they were kidnapped and two secondary characters being played off one another for a possible secret villain. I didn't mind the slower pace as our couple got to know one another but I can see a few readers finding the middle a bit slow, the biggest problem I had with the story was the ending, it kind of fell apart. The villain didn't make a lot of sense, it seems they could have achieved what they wanted by staying loyal and the organization of the whole kidnapping had a lot of loose ends (reason for ransom note, the people who actually did the kidnapping - who and why were they helping). While I very much appreciated the slower building of Nik and Ailsa's relationship, I would have liked to have seen more passion from them towards the end but that could be my more fairy tale drama piece of heart talking. The two sex scenes felt rushed and it almost felt like Nik had to be bullied into the decision to be with Ailsa instead of coming to it on his own.
I felt this was the best book of the series with a hero who was handsomely stalwart and a heroine who beautifully showcased the calm strength of women. If looking to escape the abundant insta-love/lust out there, this would be a lovely slow burning choice.
September 11, 2016
“She was a graceful woman, this Ailsa of Castle Leod. She moved in a way that made him wish to see her on the dance floor. And in his bed.”
This was another new to me author that I thoroughly enjoyed. Mad for the plaid is the 3rd book in the Oxenburg Princes series. Ailsa is basically on the shelf, a spinster in the making. She manages her family home, while her father sees to his political agendas. All her sisters are married and the only person she has to worry about is her grandmother Lady Edna. Until Natasha Romanovin a Russian Duchess, grandmother to the crown prince and good friend to Lady Edna is kidnapped while visiting.
Which is how Nikolai Romanovin enters the story. When he receives a letter from Lady Ailsa in Scotland he immediately leaves to rescue his grandmother. From the very beginning Ailsa and Nik are at each others throats and the sexual tension is palpable! Their banter was hilarious and their few heated and sensual moments were scorching.
“She gasped against his mouth, pulling back as she fought for breath.
He reluctantly stopped the kiss, though his body ached. “I burn for you.” Never had he felt such desire. It crackled along his senses everytime she was near.
The story revolves around the kidnap of Nik's grandmother and a friend, and also the mystery surrounding the motive of the kidnap and the reason behind Nik's secrecy. As I read the book I was pretty sure I know who the enemy was and what the motive was but I'm glad to say that I never saw the outcome coming.
The story was loads of fun, romantic, suspenseful and comedic! I'll definitely be continuing this series!
September 9, 2016
I love the slow building romance in this book the best!
It is a road romance, where the characters travel to save two kidnapped people (one is the grandmother of the hero).
The hero, Nik, is the heir to the throne of Exenburg, while the heroine is the youngest daughter of a Scottish (I hope this is the correct term...) Lord.
Nik is world weary, while Lyssa is very unusual for her time: she's successfully managing her father's estate all by herself, she's thus strong willed, opinionated and very, very intelligent!
Here I adimired Lyssa much more than Nik, even if I could understand some of his behaviour. Still Lyssa is the main protagonist here!
The weakest part of the story is the why and who's the perpetuator of the kidnapping. I saw this part as an excuse for Nik and Lyssa to travel together and get to know each other. So I wasn't very interested in it, and just overlooked it in my rating.
I loved best reading about a heroine who's clever, but at the same time willing to listen and accept suggestions, able to compromise, but also stubborn enough to know when to make her opinion heard and accepted!
All in all a well worth read!
It is a road romance, where the characters travel to save two kidnapped people (one is the grandmother of the hero).
The hero, Nik, is the heir to the throne of Exenburg, while the heroine is the youngest daughter of a Scottish (I hope this is the correct term...) Lord.
Nik is world weary, while Lyssa is very unusual for her time: she's successfully managing her father's estate all by herself, she's thus strong willed, opinionated and very, very intelligent!
Here I adimired Lyssa much more than Nik, even if I could understand some of his behaviour. Still Lyssa is the main protagonist here!
The weakest part of the story is the why and who's the perpetuator of the kidnapping. I saw this part as an excuse for Nik and Lyssa to travel together and get to know each other. So I wasn't very interested in it, and just overlooked it in my rating.
I loved best reading about a heroine who's clever, but at the same time willing to listen and accept suggestions, able to compromise, but also stubborn enough to know when to make her opinion heard and accepted!
All in all a well worth read!
October 29, 2019
3.5 stars
This is the first book I have read ny Karen Hawkins. It definitely required suspension of disbelief as it did not seem historically accurate. That did not bother me. I don't mind a story that is barely believable.
What bothered me
This is the first book I have read ny Karen Hawkins. It definitely required suspension of disbelief as it did not seem historically accurate. That did not bother me. I don't mind a story that is barely believable.
What bothered me
August 18, 2016
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Summary
Prince Nikolai is finding politics and social circumstances boring and dull. He is wanting for something more than what he has. When he receives word that his grandmother has been kidnapped he goes straight to the estate she had been staying at up in the Scotland mountains. Where he meets the unique and strong willed Lyssa. Lyssa has five sisters that enjoyed their own seasons, met their husbands, fell in love and have plenty of babies. But Lyssa, knows that life will never be for her. She knows she is plain to look at, and she is content to hide away at her fathers estate and take care of the those depending on her. Its a very practical and satisfactory life. But from the moment that she meets Prince Nikolai, she wants something more, a life with passion. As Nikolai and Lyssa journey together with their small group in an attempt to rescue his grandmother, they will discover treachery, mystery, danger and above all a love to fight for!
Plot and Story Line
Mad For The Plaid is the final full novel of the Oxenburg Princes series and boy what a blast I have had with this book!! I tell ya, I always forget the fun banter that this author creates and BOOM ---I get swept back up into one of her romantic tales that sweep me off my feet. This is Nikolai's story, and I have been excited to read his story ever since we stumbled upon these delectable princes. Nikolai has a different course set for him, as he is the crown prince...his life has been a hard one. Even though he has had his family, it hasn't been easy not being able to play or have fun like his brothers have had. So Nikolai has a more serious toned personality than the others have. But Lyssa brings out the playful side of him out. At first, the argue ALOT....sometimes over the silliest things. And their bantering was so fun, I honestly couldn't get enough of it. They have some great chemistry but don't know exactly how to explore it quite yet and they learn as they go along. This story did turn into a more "forbidden love" theme which I wasn't fully expecting. For Nikolai, even when he realizes how much he truly loves Lyssa, he doesn't want his life for her. He doesn't want it to change her in any way. But Lyssa is strong and has a temper even if she has a more sweet toned nature, she stands her ground. And the grandmother really helps these two out. Now we don't see much of her until the end of the book, so there is more focus on the actual romance that develops between Nikolai and Lyssa. Such a wonderful conclusion to a fabulous series, I hope it the final novella we get more of these four brothers and their wives!!!
The Cover
Sweet and charming!! I love how romantic it feels....it gives off such a happy and cheerful tone!!!
Overall View
Mad For The Plaid is a romance you can get behind and will give you the feels! Its a love story that delights, charms, and enchants!!!
Click On Title For Buy Link
[foogallery id="20249"]
Summary
Prince Nikolai is finding politics and social circumstances boring and dull. He is wanting for something more than what he has. When he receives word that his grandmother has been kidnapped he goes straight to the estate she had been staying at up in the Scotland mountains. Where he meets the unique and strong willed Lyssa. Lyssa has five sisters that enjoyed their own seasons, met their husbands, fell in love and have plenty of babies. But Lyssa, knows that life will never be for her. She knows she is plain to look at, and she is content to hide away at her fathers estate and take care of the those depending on her. Its a very practical and satisfactory life. But from the moment that she meets Prince Nikolai, she wants something more, a life with passion. As Nikolai and Lyssa journey together with their small group in an attempt to rescue his grandmother, they will discover treachery, mystery, danger and above all a love to fight for!
Plot and Story Line
Mad For The Plaid is the final full novel of the Oxenburg Princes series and boy what a blast I have had with this book!! I tell ya, I always forget the fun banter that this author creates and BOOM ---I get swept back up into one of her romantic tales that sweep me off my feet. This is Nikolai's story, and I have been excited to read his story ever since we stumbled upon these delectable princes. Nikolai has a different course set for him, as he is the crown prince...his life has been a hard one. Even though he has had his family, it hasn't been easy not being able to play or have fun like his brothers have had. So Nikolai has a more serious toned personality than the others have. But Lyssa brings out the playful side of him out. At first, the argue ALOT....sometimes over the silliest things. And their bantering was so fun, I honestly couldn't get enough of it. They have some great chemistry but don't know exactly how to explore it quite yet and they learn as they go along. This story did turn into a more "forbidden love" theme which I wasn't fully expecting. For Nikolai, even when he realizes how much he truly loves Lyssa, he doesn't want his life for her. He doesn't want it to change her in any way. But Lyssa is strong and has a temper even if she has a more sweet toned nature, she stands her ground. And the grandmother really helps these two out. Now we don't see much of her until the end of the book, so there is more focus on the actual romance that develops between Nikolai and Lyssa. Such a wonderful conclusion to a fabulous series, I hope it the final novella we get more of these four brothers and their wives!!!
The Cover
Sweet and charming!! I love how romantic it feels....it gives off such a happy and cheerful tone!!!
Overall View
Mad For The Plaid is a romance you can get behind and will give you the feels! Its a love story that delights, charms, and enchants!!!
Click On Title For Buy Link
[foogallery id="20249"]
March 2, 2017
Cute historical romance with fairy tale prince. Funny read! :)
August 28, 2016
I received an ARC from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I'm not sure where to start. I feel like a list format would work best for this review.
1. There was a lot of the improbable here, really past the point of me being able to suspend belief. I doubt very much that a 22-year-old young woman in the 1820's would be left to run a castle with her father still very much alive. I also doubt very much that she would be allowed to go on a mission to rescue abducted houseguests with a bunch of men. So....the basic gist of the plot didn't work for me. I just don't think this would have happened. I'm not even sure why Nik and/or his grandmother were in Scotland in the first place. It seemed a bit forced.
2. For me, the writing had some serious problems. At times, Ailsa was rocking some serious Scottish dialect- "aboots" and "oots" and "cannas" galore. At other times, nary one to be heard. It was incredibly inconsistent and thereby distracting. Even for an ARC, there were lots of typos- everything from punctuation errors or ommisions to incorrect pronouns (using "his" to refer to Ailsa, for example) or just the wrong word entirely being replaced with one that has similar letters a la autocorrect. Stuff like this really bothers me, because it takes me out of the world of the story. Also, someone who's been traveling in the wilderness for days would not smell like lavender and honey. That was just absurd. Also,
3. I actually didn't mind Ailsa and Nik together. They were both stubborn and used to getting their way, and I liked the dynamic of them coming to trust each other and the ensuing ST that followed. They were definitely the strongest thing this book had going. Nik seemed a bit...of an uptight jerk at the beginning, but he grew on me. I liked Ailsa from beginning to end- she was smart and tough and strong without being bossy or reckless or a know-it-all. The one thing I didn't like was the whole "plain girl turned pretty" trope that I've run across a few times. Either she's plain or she's pretty. She can't be both. I know, I know, Nik could have seen her anew through love goggles, but I find the plain girl/handsome stud combo hard to believe. Especially when he's literally a handsome prince.
4. I thought Nik's reason for was a bit weak. I mean, he's the prince, next in line to the throne. He shouldn't seem so intimidated by the people at court. And get over being the victim of a golddigger over a decade ago, already. I mean, that should have been to be expected.
5. Since it's fresh in my mind, I am still salty that a Darcy quote was dropped in for shiz and giggles. Just...no.
6. Were we supposed to be able to guess who the actual mastermind behind the kidnappings was before we were told? I feel like the hints were a bit overt.
7. The whole middle slogged a bit. There were a few chapters of travel where nothing really happened that I felt could've been cleaned up a bit.
8. Despite everything I wrote above, I didn't hate this. It wasn't terrible. It just wasn't something that stands out amongst other HR's I've read. The letters at the beginning were cute. Tata Natasha was funny. There is some potential buried here. But as it is, I'd say it's pretty average.
*I almost forgot- the guy on the cover is actually cute and not creepy, unlike many HR cover leading men. The girl is too pretty to be Ailsa as described, but it makes for a nice cover.
I'm not sure where to start. I feel like a list format would work best for this review.
1. There was a lot of the improbable here, really past the point of me being able to suspend belief. I doubt very much that a 22-year-old young woman in the 1820's would be left to run a castle with her father still very much alive. I also doubt very much that she would be allowed to go on a mission to rescue abducted houseguests with a bunch of men. So....the basic gist of the plot didn't work for me. I just don't think this would have happened. I'm not even sure why Nik and/or his grandmother were in Scotland in the first place. It seemed a bit forced.
2. For me, the writing had some serious problems. At times, Ailsa was rocking some serious Scottish dialect- "aboots" and "oots" and "cannas" galore. At other times, nary one to be heard. It was incredibly inconsistent and thereby distracting. Even for an ARC, there were lots of typos- everything from punctuation errors or ommisions to incorrect pronouns (using "his" to refer to Ailsa, for example) or just the wrong word entirely being replaced with one that has similar letters a la autocorrect. Stuff like this really bothers me, because it takes me out of the world of the story. Also, someone who's been traveling in the wilderness for days would not smell like lavender and honey. That was just absurd. Also,
3. I actually didn't mind Ailsa and Nik together. They were both stubborn and used to getting their way, and I liked the dynamic of them coming to trust each other and the ensuing ST that followed. They were definitely the strongest thing this book had going. Nik seemed a bit...of an uptight jerk at the beginning, but he grew on me. I liked Ailsa from beginning to end- she was smart and tough and strong without being bossy or reckless or a know-it-all. The one thing I didn't like was the whole "plain girl turned pretty" trope that I've run across a few times. Either she's plain or she's pretty. She can't be both. I know, I know, Nik could have seen her anew through love goggles, but I find the plain girl/handsome stud combo hard to believe. Especially when he's literally a handsome prince.
4. I thought Nik's reason for was a bit weak. I mean, he's the prince, next in line to the throne. He shouldn't seem so intimidated by the people at court. And get over being the victim of a golddigger over a decade ago, already. I mean, that should have been to be expected.
5. Since it's fresh in my mind, I am still salty that a Darcy quote was dropped in for shiz and giggles. Just...no.
6. Were we supposed to be able to guess who the actual mastermind behind the kidnappings was before we were told? I feel like the hints were a bit overt.
7. The whole middle slogged a bit. There were a few chapters of travel where nothing really happened that I felt could've been cleaned up a bit.
8. Despite everything I wrote above, I didn't hate this. It wasn't terrible. It just wasn't something that stands out amongst other HR's I've read. The letters at the beginning were cute. Tata Natasha was funny. There is some potential buried here. But as it is, I'd say it's pretty average.
*I almost forgot- the guy on the cover is actually cute and not creepy, unlike many HR cover leading men. The girl is too pretty to be Ailsa as described, but it makes for a nice cover.
August 13, 2016
I think Mad for the Plaid is my favorite of The Oxenburg Princes series (and a nice closure, since all the princes had had their happy-ever-afters now. At least that's my take). Overall I enjoyed the camaraderie and battle of wits between Lady Ailsa and Prince Nikolai, or even with other supporting characters. But what I really loved the most was the heroine character. Ailsa might not be a beauty, but she was a strong young lady who knew what she wanted and didn't sit around waiting for things to happen. This has been one of the traits I love about Karen Hawkins's books!
That Tata Natasha - Nik's grandmother - being less annoying here helped a lot. The side effect of that was not many laugh-inducing moments caused by this nosy Duchess; but fear not, readers still get to see her hassled her grandsons a bit. And less Tata Natasha meant more of Ailsa and Nik's moments through good, bad, and steamy climates!
Yes, I had my vexation over the betrayal part of the story. It baffled me that Nik never suspected anything with so many hints thrown in (of course, readers saw the bigger pictures that we were able to guess by putting two and two together). Yet again, this put the moment of glory on the heroine's side. Gosh, I just loved Ailsa MacKenzie - she could have me overlooked less desirable details in this books! I also gave credit to that lovely ending to her - of course, with the interference of you-know-who - although to be fair, Nik showed a promising inclination by that point.
I don't know whether there's more Oxenburgian stories in store. But even if there isn't, I'm sure Karen Hawkins would come up with others; spin-offs, tied-in, new series, I don't care; so long as there's new stories to come, I'll grab whatever she writes! :D
Advanced copy of this book is kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
That Tata Natasha - Nik's grandmother - being less annoying here helped a lot. The side effect of that was not many laugh-inducing moments caused by this nosy Duchess; but fear not, readers still get to see her hassled her grandsons a bit. And less Tata Natasha meant more of Ailsa and Nik's moments through good, bad, and steamy climates!
Yes, I had my vexation over the betrayal part of the story. It baffled me that Nik never suspected anything with so many hints thrown in (of course, readers saw the bigger pictures that we were able to guess by putting two and two together). Yet again, this put the moment of glory on the heroine's side. Gosh, I just loved Ailsa MacKenzie - she could have me overlooked less desirable details in this books! I also gave credit to that lovely ending to her - of course, with the interference of you-know-who - although to be fair, Nik showed a promising inclination by that point.
I don't know whether there's more Oxenburgian stories in store. But even if there isn't, I'm sure Karen Hawkins would come up with others; spin-offs, tied-in, new series, I don't care; so long as there's new stories to come, I'll grab whatever she writes! :D
Advanced copy of this book is kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 29, 2016
The premise of The Oxenburg Princes series always struck me as a bit unusual. Eastern European princes finding love with women from the Scottish Highlands is a strange mix of cultures and character types but somehow Karen Hawkins makes it all work. The final book, Mad for the Plaid, uses this same formula to the greatest effect by focusing on the dangerous political aspects of a prince’s life and just how strong a true love must be to overcome those challenges.
Lady Alisa Mackenzie has been playing hostess to the Grand Duchess of Oxenburg for several weeks, dealing with her direct ways and the challenging requests for her comfort. In order to secure all the items the duchess claims she needs during her visit Alisa, has been corresponding with the Crown Prince of Oxenburg, Nikolai Romanovin. Unimpressed by the prince’s reputation Alisa writes to him with only the barest of formalities and hopes with each letter it will be the last time they have to talk with each other. Her wish is ignored when the duchess goes missing from Castle Leod and Alisa has to report to the prince that she is now searching for his missing grandmother.
Please read the full review at Romantic Historical Reviews
Lady Alisa Mackenzie has been playing hostess to the Grand Duchess of Oxenburg for several weeks, dealing with her direct ways and the challenging requests for her comfort. In order to secure all the items the duchess claims she needs during her visit Alisa, has been corresponding with the Crown Prince of Oxenburg, Nikolai Romanovin. Unimpressed by the prince’s reputation Alisa writes to him with only the barest of formalities and hopes with each letter it will be the last time they have to talk with each other. Her wish is ignored when the duchess goes missing from Castle Leod and Alisa has to report to the prince that she is now searching for his missing grandmother.
Please read the full review at Romantic Historical Reviews
August 14, 2016
Este es uno de esos casos en los que la descripción de la historia no se corresponde con la historia en sí. Y aunque no le veo mucho sentido al asunto tampoco es algo que me haya importado. Pero quede dicho para quien pueda interesar.
Cuando Nikolai recibe la tropecienta carta firmada por Ailsa esta vez diciéndole que su querida abuela ha sido extraviada y que se va a hacer lo posible para recuperarla y que en caso de que sus esfuerzos no sean suficientes se llamara a las autoridades pertinentes para que se tomen medidas, Nikolai decide que es el momento de hacer una visita a Castle Leod y tomar cartas en el asunto. Debido a las turbulentas negociaciones en las que está metido, Nikolai teme que se trate de un secuestro con tintes políticos y desea hacer un control de daños antes de que el secuestro se haga público. Y la única manera de hacer todo esto sin levantar las sospechas de los secuestradores es viajar haciéndose pasar por un sirviente.
Esta ha sido la mejor parte de la historia. Las cartas entre Nikolai y Ailsa son divertidas y estimulantes. Ailsa está dispuesta a demostrar que puede hacerse cargo de la situación y que es merecedora de la responsabilidad que su padre le ha otorgado: gestionar Castle Leod.
A partir de aquí la historia pierde su encanto, su precisión histórica y su originalidad.
La primera vez que Ailsa ve al sirviente Nikolai sabe que es un príncipe y lo besa y entonces él, que pensaba que Ailsa era fea, ya no lo piensa.
Se embarcan en un viaje especialmente diseñado para que los protagonistas pasen tiempo juntos y se comporten como si fuesen nuestros contemporáneos. Prácticamente esta frase resume tanto la historia como lo que no me ha gustado de la misma.
Ha habido muchas repeticiones, como que el color del pelo de Ailsa era rubio oscuro (creo que hasta en 7 ocasiones nos lo dicen) o que el príncipe parecía más un pirata que un príncipe, totalmente entendible debido a la falta de establecimientos en los que atender la higiene personal durante el viaje. Y me ha despistado muchísimo el acento escocés que la autora se ha empeñado en transcribir, al ser foránea no sé si esto será un problema para los autóctonos.
Y por último y más importante voy a hablar de la escena en la que tienen sexo. La pondré bajo spoilers pero creo que dice mucho acerca del tipo de historia que ésta es.
Ha sido todo demasiado contemporáneo para mi gusto.
ARC provided by Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books via Netgalley.
This is one of those cases in which the blurb does not describe the story at all. And although it does not matter to me I neither can think of a good reason to do it. But it is said to whom it may concern.
When Nikolai receives the umpteen letter signed by Ailsa this time telling him that his beloved grandmother has been misplaced and that all kind of efforts are going to be made to recover her and that in the event that their efforts are not enough the authorities will be called to take measures, Nikolai decides it's time to pay a visit to Castle Leod and take matters into his own hands. Due to the turbulent negotiations in which his kingdom is involved in, Nikolai fears that the kidnapping will have a political tinge and wants to make a damage´s control before the kidnapping is made public. And the only way to do that without raising the suspicions of the kidnappers is to travel to Castle Leod posing as a servant.
This has been the best part of the story. Letters between Nikolai and Ailsa are fun and exciting. Ailsa is prepared to demonstrate she can manage the situation and that she is worthy of the responsibility that her father has given her: manage Castle Leod.
From here on out, the story loses its charm, its historical accuracy and its originality.
The first time that Ailsa sees Nikolai, the groom , she instantly knows that he is a prince and kisses him and then him, who first though Ailsa was plain and plumb, no longer think that and kissed her back.
They enlist in a journey especially designed so that the MC´s spend time together and they can behave as if they were our contemporaries. Practically this phrase encapsulates both the story and what I didn´t like about it.
There have been many repetitions, like that Ailsa´s hair color was dark blonde (I think is said at least 7 times) or that the prince looked more than a pirate that a prince (understandable due to the lack of toilette´s facilities during the journey, isn´t it?) And it had bothered me a lot the Scottish accent that the author insisted on to transcribe literally, maybe being a foreign like I am is the problem and this won´t be a problem for the natives.
And last and most important I am going to
It has been too contemporary for my taste.
August 21, 2016
*I received an e-ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
Oh my goodness!!! What a whizz-bang ending to a delightful series. I assume it is the ending of the series since all of the princes are now married. I will really miss Tata Natasha who is absolutely delightful and steals whatever scenes she is in! Maybe the author will decide to continue with a series where Tata Natasha marries off all of the bachelors in Oxenburg now that she has her grandsons married off -- she did state that was her next goal!
Crown Prince Nikolai Romanovin is certainly jaded. With all of the intrigues at court, he's come to believe that he can never let anyone be close to him in order to avoid getting hurt. He's built walls to protect himself and keep everyone out.
Lady Ailsa Mackenzie, is the youngest in her family, is unmarried and acts as the estate manager for her father's estate. She is an excellent at many things -- hunting, shooting, riding -- all those 'manly' skills. She isn't an outstanding beauty but she is calm, thoughtful and very, very determined.
Nik's grandmother, Tata Natasha, goes missing while visiting with Ailsa's grandmother at Castle Cromartie. Nik, Ailsa and several others take off on a long journey across some forbidding terrain in order to rescue Tata Natasha. Frankly, in the beginning I thought Tata Natasha might have staged her own kidnapping in order to bring Nik and Ailsa together, but that wasn't the case. Little by little Ailsa worms her way under Nik's walls and into his heart, but he fights it all the way.
Nik barely survives a number of 'accidents' and brigands during the journey. Is he the ultimate target of a larger plot???? Well -- read the book to find out.
I really enjoyed this book and hope you'll give it a read!
Oh my goodness!!! What a whizz-bang ending to a delightful series. I assume it is the ending of the series since all of the princes are now married. I will really miss Tata Natasha who is absolutely delightful and steals whatever scenes she is in! Maybe the author will decide to continue with a series where Tata Natasha marries off all of the bachelors in Oxenburg now that she has her grandsons married off -- she did state that was her next goal!
Crown Prince Nikolai Romanovin is certainly jaded. With all of the intrigues at court, he's come to believe that he can never let anyone be close to him in order to avoid getting hurt. He's built walls to protect himself and keep everyone out.
Lady Ailsa Mackenzie, is the youngest in her family, is unmarried and acts as the estate manager for her father's estate. She is an excellent at many things -- hunting, shooting, riding -- all those 'manly' skills. She isn't an outstanding beauty but she is calm, thoughtful and very, very determined.
Nik's grandmother, Tata Natasha, goes missing while visiting with Ailsa's grandmother at Castle Cromartie. Nik, Ailsa and several others take off on a long journey across some forbidding terrain in order to rescue Tata Natasha. Frankly, in the beginning I thought Tata Natasha might have staged her own kidnapping in order to bring Nik and Ailsa together, but that wasn't the case. Little by little Ailsa worms her way under Nik's walls and into his heart, but he fights it all the way.
Nik barely survives a number of 'accidents' and brigands during the journey. Is he the ultimate target of a larger plot???? Well -- read the book to find out.
I really enjoyed this book and hope you'll give it a read!
February 11, 2017
As the lovely gif illustrates, Mad for the Plaid could be summed up in one word: BORING. So, very, very boring. I skipped ahead numerous times on account of the sluggish pace which was extremely difficult for me to do since I usually inhale Karen Hawkins’s books. This particular book however lacked any of the magic I’ve come to associate with the Oxenburg Princes series. Its deficiencies were especially obvious since it was the follow-up to The Prince and I, which was damn near perfect in my opinion.
There were some positives...okay, maybe ONE positive and that was the heroine, Ailsa. Her take charge attitude and no nonsense approach to everything, including pigheaded princes, had me wishing she had been given the story she no doubt deserved. And really there were a few glimpses of what this book could have been, most notably in Ailsa and Nik’s banter and sparring matches which were quite enjoyable. There was also the fact that this was in large part a road trip type scenario which is almost always a winning trope for me. Oh! And the passive aggressive prologue letters Ailsa and Nik exchanged were hilarious and should have been a good indicator of things to come. Should, woulda, coulda.
Where the book stumbled the most was in Nik’s confusing characterization. In the novella Twelve Kisses to Midnight, Nik is portrayed as a charming rake with a widow obsession who had, I thought, a lot of potential as a hero. In Mad for the Plaid however, Nik inexplicably transformed into this bossy, stubborn, pole up his ass douchebag who distrusted all women after ONE woman broke his heart. UGH. So with that revelation, there was of course no way in hell I was getting on board with the romance as I didn’t feel Nik deserved Ailsa. A fact which he proves on a number of occasions and one moment in particular stood out the most. It came the morning after Nik and Ailsa made love for the first time and Nik belatedly discovers Ailsa was a virgin. He IMMEDIATELY jumps to the conclusion that she purposely kept this fact from him as a means of trapping him into marriage, which has happened before, or so he says. Ailsa said this gem of a quote in response:
“Then lock your cock in a box and throw away the key. But dinnae come here and accuse me of doing anything other than enjoying what you freely offered. And until now I thought I had enjoyed it. Now I wish it had never happened.”
LOCK YOUR COCK IN A BOX AND THROW AWAY THE KEY. I think that should be in the HR quotes hall of fame, if such a thing existed, don’t you think? Brava, Ailsa!
It’s the worst feeling in the world when you don’t enjoy a book by one of your favorite authors and are then forced to write a mostly negative review in response. What hurts the most is that I KNOW Karen Hawkins is capable of so much more than what was presented here because I’ve read it. All I can do know now is hope that this book was just a blimp and that her next one will be better.
P.S. The lack of Tata Natasha was a crime and a travesty.
March 31, 2018
Questo libro fa parte della miniserie ” I Principi di Oxenburg”: ambientata nella Scozia di inizi ottocento, ha come protagonisti i rampolli di una casa reale russa.
I protagonisti di questo libro sono il principe Nikolai Romanovin di Oxenburg e Lady Ailsa Mackenzie: un frivolo e superficiale nobile, all’apparenza, e una caparbia e perspicace gentildonna. I due sono coinvolti in una rocambolesca avventura, che li vede all’inseguimento dei rapitori della zia di lui. Passano gran parte del tempo a bisticciare su chi deve essere a capo della compagnia, ma i numerosi “incidenti” sul loro cammino li avvicinano sempre di più.
Lei è un bel personaggio: una ragazza intelligente e in grado di prendere in mano le redini in qualsiasi situazione. Dotata di grande acume, riconosce subito il travestimento dietro cui si nasconde Nikolai. Lui si presenta come un principe po’ arrogante e pieno di sé, che considera la giovane lady solo un impiccio per la sua missione, ma alla fine dovrà ricredersi.
La trama è molto interessante, non così scontata come può sembrare all’inizio: ricca di piccoli e grandi colpi di scena che tengono vivo l’interesse del lettore fino alla fine e il cattivo della situazione non è così facilmente individuabile. Il finale non tanto prevedibile e immediato, la rende ancora più apprezzabile e piacevole.
Nel complesso una bella storia, con una protagonista un po’ anticonvenzionale per l’epoca in cui la vicenda è ambientata e con quella vena di suspence che intriga e stuzzica il lettore.
I protagonisti di questo libro sono il principe Nikolai Romanovin di Oxenburg e Lady Ailsa Mackenzie: un frivolo e superficiale nobile, all’apparenza, e una caparbia e perspicace gentildonna. I due sono coinvolti in una rocambolesca avventura, che li vede all’inseguimento dei rapitori della zia di lui. Passano gran parte del tempo a bisticciare su chi deve essere a capo della compagnia, ma i numerosi “incidenti” sul loro cammino li avvicinano sempre di più.
Lei è un bel personaggio: una ragazza intelligente e in grado di prendere in mano le redini in qualsiasi situazione. Dotata di grande acume, riconosce subito il travestimento dietro cui si nasconde Nikolai. Lui si presenta come un principe po’ arrogante e pieno di sé, che considera la giovane lady solo un impiccio per la sua missione, ma alla fine dovrà ricredersi.
La trama è molto interessante, non così scontata come può sembrare all’inizio: ricca di piccoli e grandi colpi di scena che tengono vivo l’interesse del lettore fino alla fine e il cattivo della situazione non è così facilmente individuabile. Il finale non tanto prevedibile e immediato, la rende ancora più apprezzabile e piacevole.
Nel complesso una bella storia, con una protagonista un po’ anticonvenzionale per l’epoca in cui la vicenda è ambientata e con quella vena di suspence che intriga e stuzzica il lettore.
August 29, 2016
'Mad for the Plaid' by Karen Hawkins is book three of "The Oxenburg Princes" series. This is the story of Prince Nikolai Romanovin and Ailsa. I read all the books in this series but I do think this is a standalone book.
Ailsa has been writing a few letters back and forth to Nik at his grandmothers request for a trunk she left behind when leaving to visit Ailsa and her grandmother. So they have a kind of presumption of each other from those letters. When Nik Grandmother goes missing Ailsa has to let Nik know that she is missing. This brings him to her house while undercover of being a groom. Nik doesn't want his people to know that he has left the area but wants to come and find his grandmother. Ailsa is pretty smart and figures out who Nik really is and they pretend that they will work together at first. I though this was another great book by Ms. Hawkins. I also love the secondary characters as they are just as fun as the main ones.
I received an eARC, from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
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Ailsa has been writing a few letters back and forth to Nik at his grandmothers request for a trunk she left behind when leaving to visit Ailsa and her grandmother. So they have a kind of presumption of each other from those letters. When Nik Grandmother goes missing Ailsa has to let Nik know that she is missing. This brings him to her house while undercover of being a groom. Nik doesn't want his people to know that he has left the area but wants to come and find his grandmother. Ailsa is pretty smart and figures out who Nik really is and they pretend that they will work together at first. I though this was another great book by Ms. Hawkins. I also love the secondary characters as they are just as fun as the main ones.
I received an eARC, from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H...
https://www.facebook.com/sally.mae.39...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/17091...
http://booklikes.com/
https://romancebookreviewforyou.wordp...
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
August 18, 2016
***I received this arc from Netgallery in exchanged for an honest review***
I did not read the last book neither do I remember details from the first one but still I enjoyed this book. I really enjoyed the bickering between Nik and Ailsa, some might find it annoying but reading about it is one of my guilty pleasure.
It dragged a little at the middle. I love a good mystery as well as the next person but it got really tedious in this case. The camping went on forever, they were always camping. With the amount of time they spent getting there they might have journeyed to the end of the world for all I know. I have no idea of time passage, they might have spent a week there or a month . It worked in it's favor when the "I love you" was uttered and I had no idea if I could classify it as instant love.
The end was cute, almost too cute with all the family coming together and what not. All in all, not a bad book to read.
I did not read the last book neither do I remember details from the first one but still I enjoyed this book. I really enjoyed the bickering between Nik and Ailsa, some might find it annoying but reading about it is one of my guilty pleasure.
It dragged a little at the middle. I love a good mystery as well as the next person but it got really tedious in this case. The camping went on forever, they were always camping. With the amount of time they spent getting there they might have journeyed to the end of the world for all I know. I have no idea of time passage, they might have spent a week there or a month . It worked in it's favor when the "I love you" was uttered and I had no idea if I could classify it as instant love.
The end was cute, almost too cute with all the family coming together and what not. All in all, not a bad book to read.
December 31, 2016
This historical romance had a great beginning with lots of exciting action and both a hero and heroine with strong character but when their relationship heats up, the hero turned into a jerk seducing her and not supporting her in front of her clan then leaving her while she accepted it all. Prince Nikolai's grandmother is abducted while she is visiting Ailsa's estate in Scotland.
August 30, 2016
Book:Mad for the Plaid by Karen Hawkins
Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook
Heat Rating: Mild
Overall Rating: five stars
In this story Prince Nikolai Romanovin, of Oxenburg finds London society life - dull tedious and boring. He is uninterested in politics and the social structures expected from him.These are forced upon him due to his royal title unfortunately for him! Of course his guise worked and got plenty of useful information from people thinking he was a useless empty headed flop who only care about seducing women and carousing. It was amazing how many people would talk and reveal useful imperative information when they thought he wasn't listening. Yet he was so tired and felt ill and thought he would go insane if he has to take and dance with one more empty headed Virgin he will go mad! He needs some excitement in his life.
Careful for what you wish for! As he discovers his Grandmother, the Grand Duchess, Natasha Nikolaevna may be in danger! He then takes off and heads straight to Castle Cromartie, where she had been visiting. Nikolai goes in the disguise as a groom, a member of the his honor guard on the Scottish estate where his Grandmother was visiting her friend Countess Cromartie. Though with some eavesdropping and his actions there is one Scottish lass he does not fool with this disguise.
Lady Ailsa Mackenzie, Laird Mackenzie's youngest unmarried daughter, is the heroine in this story. She is left in charge with all the duties and responsibilities of the estate in her father's absence. As her father is gone most of the time. She has not been impressed with her previous correspondence with Prince Nicolai, plus the rumors and reputation of his character does not impress her in the least. Due to her previous dealings with him, was not surprised he was missing, when members of his honor guard arrived on her family's estate. She figured he couldn't tear himself always from carousing or his latest conquest of the week. Then she notices his new grooms bold behavior and then see how his superiors treat him as if he were above their station. Then to be sure she puts him to a wee test which is rather hilarious! Ailsa corners him - there is no use lying, so he comes clean and admits his little ruse.
Nik is nothing at all like what she has heard about him. As being a handsome, spoiled, shameless, womanizing profligate who cares about nothing, but his own selfish pursuits - which is pretty common among the nobility. Yet he didn't seem to have any of these traits besides being verra verra bonny indeed! He obviously loved his grandmother very much or he wouldn't of traveled to personally help in the aid and rescue of her. Though each of them have have very different ideas of how to do this and each one is stubborn thinking their way is the correct way!
Obviously the gossipers and newspapers got it his behavior very wrong indeed. Though Ailsa could see how this his behavior can drop in a moments notice depending on the situation he is put in.This only proved his keen insight, calculation and intelligence to get the upper hand. Yet Lady Ailsa was also very intelligent and no fool and knew when he was playing her! Plus very soon he would realize she was like no other woman Prince Nicolai Romanovin has ever met!
As they begin this journey they find out they are both stubborn and they bump heads. Ailsa agrees to keep his true identity secret. except for a couple close to her for his safety. In the beginning Nik finds Ailsa just bothersome and irritating and not his type at all. As they travel to rescue together as each felt they other would just be in the others way and argue in the way the rescue attempt should be done. Nik soon finds out Ailsa is also not what he expected this brave, passionate, independent, and stubborn that all her people seem to love and respect. A bit ironic, being a woman, yet very true indeed, Nik soon realizes this special Scotswoman is exactly his type! They soon learn to respect and care for each both on the physical and mental planes. Its is totally exhilarating to read, how their opinions of each other changes and love blossoms!
Yet this story is not without it's ups and downs, conflicts, mayhem and danger . As Ailsa believes there is one who would like nothing more but to start clan war with Ailsa’s family to get a hold of the MacKenzie lands. Then you realize it could be enemies of Prince Nikolai as he is negotiations with the wicked Tsar. Plus there are several attempts on his life by unknown assassins or is just some random brigands scheme? So is this abduction just random or planned? Do they want to murder Nik, Ailsa or possibly both? Who is the true target of this devious plan?
Nik loves his Grandmother, as Prince is hoping to retrieve his Grandmother quickly and quietly. This is done to avoid an international incident. Is that even possible? As there seems to be danger joined with mayhem at every turn and corner! Will they even survive? Readers will have to read this delightful tale to find out.
Another Karen Hawkins winner I absolutely loved! This is the third book in the fabulous Oxenburg Prince's series. I think is my favorite in the series. It has all the elements readers of historical romance look for with splendid settings, breathtaking dialogues and plotting that makes your heart race! Another captivating fast paced-page turner, a total win in my opinion!
All the characters in this story definitely comes to life! As even the honorable secondary characters are so endearing. Nicolai’s Grandmother is a definite scene stealer! She who loves to complain, nag and insult whenever the needs arrives. Plus her ill smelling healing potions is absolutely hilarious! Though the Grand Duchess’s heart is always in the right place - when it comes to her Grandson and those she loves. This riveting novel is filled with non-stop action, moments of humor, suspense, mystery, drama, intrigue, treachery betrayal, emotional heartbreak and love. It touches all the emotions to us faint of heart and believe in love! In addition. a hot swoon worthy handsome Prince! Yet this Prince is not always “charming” in the decisions he has to make.. A definite heartstring puller. with a surprise ending that readers won't be able to tear away from!
I highly recommend the spectacular novel “Mad for the Plaid” by Karen Hawkins ( The Oxenburg Prince's series #3). A New York Times and USA Today bestselling who is an extremely gifted storyteller. Believe me this is one tale readers don't want to miss!
*I was given this book from Gallery Threshold Pocket Books. A division of Simon and Schuster publishers through netgalley for an honest review.
Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook
Heat Rating: Mild
Overall Rating: five stars
In this story Prince Nikolai Romanovin, of Oxenburg finds London society life - dull tedious and boring. He is uninterested in politics and the social structures expected from him.These are forced upon him due to his royal title unfortunately for him! Of course his guise worked and got plenty of useful information from people thinking he was a useless empty headed flop who only care about seducing women and carousing. It was amazing how many people would talk and reveal useful imperative information when they thought he wasn't listening. Yet he was so tired and felt ill and thought he would go insane if he has to take and dance with one more empty headed Virgin he will go mad! He needs some excitement in his life.
Careful for what you wish for! As he discovers his Grandmother, the Grand Duchess, Natasha Nikolaevna may be in danger! He then takes off and heads straight to Castle Cromartie, where she had been visiting. Nikolai goes in the disguise as a groom, a member of the his honor guard on the Scottish estate where his Grandmother was visiting her friend Countess Cromartie. Though with some eavesdropping and his actions there is one Scottish lass he does not fool with this disguise.
Lady Ailsa Mackenzie, Laird Mackenzie's youngest unmarried daughter, is the heroine in this story. She is left in charge with all the duties and responsibilities of the estate in her father's absence. As her father is gone most of the time. She has not been impressed with her previous correspondence with Prince Nicolai, plus the rumors and reputation of his character does not impress her in the least. Due to her previous dealings with him, was not surprised he was missing, when members of his honor guard arrived on her family's estate. She figured he couldn't tear himself always from carousing or his latest conquest of the week. Then she notices his new grooms bold behavior and then see how his superiors treat him as if he were above their station. Then to be sure she puts him to a wee test which is rather hilarious! Ailsa corners him - there is no use lying, so he comes clean and admits his little ruse.
Nik is nothing at all like what she has heard about him. As being a handsome, spoiled, shameless, womanizing profligate who cares about nothing, but his own selfish pursuits - which is pretty common among the nobility. Yet he didn't seem to have any of these traits besides being verra verra bonny indeed! He obviously loved his grandmother very much or he wouldn't of traveled to personally help in the aid and rescue of her. Though each of them have have very different ideas of how to do this and each one is stubborn thinking their way is the correct way!
Obviously the gossipers and newspapers got it his behavior very wrong indeed. Though Ailsa could see how this his behavior can drop in a moments notice depending on the situation he is put in.This only proved his keen insight, calculation and intelligence to get the upper hand. Yet Lady Ailsa was also very intelligent and no fool and knew when he was playing her! Plus very soon he would realize she was like no other woman Prince Nicolai Romanovin has ever met!
As they begin this journey they find out they are both stubborn and they bump heads. Ailsa agrees to keep his true identity secret. except for a couple close to her for his safety. In the beginning Nik finds Ailsa just bothersome and irritating and not his type at all. As they travel to rescue together as each felt they other would just be in the others way and argue in the way the rescue attempt should be done. Nik soon finds out Ailsa is also not what he expected this brave, passionate, independent, and stubborn that all her people seem to love and respect. A bit ironic, being a woman, yet very true indeed, Nik soon realizes this special Scotswoman is exactly his type! They soon learn to respect and care for each both on the physical and mental planes. Its is totally exhilarating to read, how their opinions of each other changes and love blossoms!
Yet this story is not without it's ups and downs, conflicts, mayhem and danger . As Ailsa believes there is one who would like nothing more but to start clan war with Ailsa’s family to get a hold of the MacKenzie lands. Then you realize it could be enemies of Prince Nikolai as he is negotiations with the wicked Tsar. Plus there are several attempts on his life by unknown assassins or is just some random brigands scheme? So is this abduction just random or planned? Do they want to murder Nik, Ailsa or possibly both? Who is the true target of this devious plan?
Nik loves his Grandmother, as Prince is hoping to retrieve his Grandmother quickly and quietly. This is done to avoid an international incident. Is that even possible? As there seems to be danger joined with mayhem at every turn and corner! Will they even survive? Readers will have to read this delightful tale to find out.
Another Karen Hawkins winner I absolutely loved! This is the third book in the fabulous Oxenburg Prince's series. I think is my favorite in the series. It has all the elements readers of historical romance look for with splendid settings, breathtaking dialogues and plotting that makes your heart race! Another captivating fast paced-page turner, a total win in my opinion!
All the characters in this story definitely comes to life! As even the honorable secondary characters are so endearing. Nicolai’s Grandmother is a definite scene stealer! She who loves to complain, nag and insult whenever the needs arrives. Plus her ill smelling healing potions is absolutely hilarious! Though the Grand Duchess’s heart is always in the right place - when it comes to her Grandson and those she loves. This riveting novel is filled with non-stop action, moments of humor, suspense, mystery, drama, intrigue, treachery betrayal, emotional heartbreak and love. It touches all the emotions to us faint of heart and believe in love! In addition. a hot swoon worthy handsome Prince! Yet this Prince is not always “charming” in the decisions he has to make.. A definite heartstring puller. with a surprise ending that readers won't be able to tear away from!
I highly recommend the spectacular novel “Mad for the Plaid” by Karen Hawkins ( The Oxenburg Prince's series #3). A New York Times and USA Today bestselling who is an extremely gifted storyteller. Believe me this is one tale readers don't want to miss!
*I was given this book from Gallery Threshold Pocket Books. A division of Simon and Schuster publishers through netgalley for an honest review.
August 10, 2016
*I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
I loved 90% of this book and I was in thrall until the very end.
Grand Duchess Natasha has been abducted while visiting with Ailsa MacKenzie's grandmother at Castle Leod. Ailsa (I am not 100% sure what her name is going to end up as in the final product - on Goodreads the heroine for this book is named Lyssa, in the blurb at the beginning of this book she is Mairi and in the actual story she is Ailsa - so that is what I am referring to her as) has written to her grandson Nikolai to let him know that his grandmother has been taken and that she will find her and keep him informed.
Nik loves his grandmother and is not sure if her abduction is as straightforward as Ailsa claims. He decides to go to Castle Leod in disguise as a groom and mount a rescue of his own.
Nik is quickly found out by Ailsa and they share a blindingly passionate kiss. Ailsa agrees to let Nik "help" but Ailsa is determined to rescue Natasha on her own - she is the youngest of her father's children and has been left to run the castle on her own. She portrays herself as completely in control - but inside she worries and second guesses herself constantly.
These two try to outmaneuver each other from the onset - it is really quite amusing. And when they finally agree to work together - it is oblivious that they are meant to be. However, nothing comes easy in love and Nik will have to move pass years of betrayals and mistrust - he will have to open himself up to Ailas and risk heartache.
When they finally make love - Ailsa expects nothing from Nik. But the years of intrigue and deceit have jaded Nik and he accuses Ailsa of trying to trap him. Ailas is furious and sets Nik straight. She is deeply hurt because she loves him and thought that he trusted her. After she leaves him Nik realizes the huge mistake he has made - but he doesn't know how to fix it. He knows he loves Ailas, but he believes that her spirit will be destroyed by the deceit and betrayals of royal court - he decides that he loves her too much to let that happen.
Later when they rescue his grandmother, Nik is dealt another devastating betrayal, which only cements his earlier thoughts. Ailsa doesn't understand why Nik is avoiding her - she knows he was hurt by the betrayal but instead of letting her comfort him - he pushes her away.
Nik leaves with his grandmother and makes it clear that he will never see Ailsa again - she is heartbroken. As they are leaving Natasha takes Ailsa aside and tells her not to worry and that Ailsa will write to her and she will write back.
This is where the story nose dived for me - I really don't like endings where I don't believe the H/h will be together without the interference of a third party - it reminded me of the ending of Tracy Anne Warren's book The Trouble with Princesses. I am not sure Nik would have ended up with Ailsa if his grandmother hadn't interfered and that makes me sad and in a way diminishes the belief that he really loved her - I am more of a love conquers all type of person and not a fan of martyrs - I totally understand his reasons for leaving her, but I felt that if he really loved her - he would find a way to protect her and that didn't happen.
That is really the only complaint I have with the book - because it is well written, flows perfectly, has some steamy moments, some funny moments, life and death moments, wonderful character devolvement and some heartbreak and FINALLY a sweet HEA.
This is part of a series, but it could easily be read as a stand alone title with no problems. I would recommend this book and even though I was not happy with the ending, that is just me and has nothing to do with the actual writing.
I loved 90% of this book and I was in thrall until the very end.
Grand Duchess Natasha has been abducted while visiting with Ailsa MacKenzie's grandmother at Castle Leod. Ailsa (I am not 100% sure what her name is going to end up as in the final product - on Goodreads the heroine for this book is named Lyssa, in the blurb at the beginning of this book she is Mairi and in the actual story she is Ailsa - so that is what I am referring to her as) has written to her grandson Nikolai to let him know that his grandmother has been taken and that she will find her and keep him informed.
Nik loves his grandmother and is not sure if her abduction is as straightforward as Ailsa claims. He decides to go to Castle Leod in disguise as a groom and mount a rescue of his own.
Nik is quickly found out by Ailsa and they share a blindingly passionate kiss. Ailsa agrees to let Nik "help" but Ailsa is determined to rescue Natasha on her own - she is the youngest of her father's children and has been left to run the castle on her own. She portrays herself as completely in control - but inside she worries and second guesses herself constantly.
These two try to outmaneuver each other from the onset - it is really quite amusing. And when they finally agree to work together - it is oblivious that they are meant to be. However, nothing comes easy in love and Nik will have to move pass years of betrayals and mistrust - he will have to open himself up to Ailas and risk heartache.
When they finally make love - Ailsa expects nothing from Nik. But the years of intrigue and deceit have jaded Nik and he accuses Ailsa of trying to trap him. Ailas is furious and sets Nik straight. She is deeply hurt because she loves him and thought that he trusted her. After she leaves him Nik realizes the huge mistake he has made - but he doesn't know how to fix it. He knows he loves Ailas, but he believes that her spirit will be destroyed by the deceit and betrayals of royal court - he decides that he loves her too much to let that happen.
Later when they rescue his grandmother, Nik is dealt another devastating betrayal, which only cements his earlier thoughts. Ailsa doesn't understand why Nik is avoiding her - she knows he was hurt by the betrayal but instead of letting her comfort him - he pushes her away.
Nik leaves with his grandmother and makes it clear that he will never see Ailsa again - she is heartbroken. As they are leaving Natasha takes Ailsa aside and tells her not to worry and that Ailsa will write to her and she will write back.
This is where the story nose dived for me - I really don't like endings where I don't believe the H/h will be together without the interference of a third party - it reminded me of the ending of Tracy Anne Warren's book The Trouble with Princesses. I am not sure Nik would have ended up with Ailsa if his grandmother hadn't interfered and that makes me sad and in a way diminishes the belief that he really loved her - I am more of a love conquers all type of person and not a fan of martyrs - I totally understand his reasons for leaving her, but I felt that if he really loved her - he would find a way to protect her and that didn't happen.
That is really the only complaint I have with the book - because it is well written, flows perfectly, has some steamy moments, some funny moments, life and death moments, wonderful character devolvement and some heartbreak and FINALLY a sweet HEA.
This is part of a series, but it could easily be read as a stand alone title with no problems. I would recommend this book and even though I was not happy with the ending, that is just me and has nothing to do with the actual writing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2016
Before reading this book, I had never read a book by Karen Hawkins. Since finishing Mad for the Plaid , I have decided that I need to read every book she has ever written. This book was witty, action packed, exciting, charming, romantic, steamy, and so much more. Everything I have ever wanted in a historical romance was granted to me with this book. It is safe to say that I throughly enjoyed this book.
Right from the beginning, I was hooked to this book. The plot was just so addictive! Every time I finished a chapter, I just HAD to read the next chapter so I could figure out what was going to happen next. There was a bit of a lull in the plot near the middle of the book. However, it was thankfully very short-lived. There were also some predictable storylines, but I still enjoyed the story nonetheless!
Nikolai and Lyssa were fantastic together. Their banter was hilarious and filled with chemistry. I was laughing out loud at some of the things they said to each other. Also, the passion they shared was incredible!
The development of the romance was great. I thought Karen did a great job at pacing their relationship so it felt believable. I was shipping Lyssa and Nikolai so hard! I got to a point where I would internally scream anytime they would look at each other. Just thinking about them is making me fangirl as I write this review!
Lyssa and Nikolai were fantastic characters. Nikolai was a bit dark and serious, but he had a secret playful side. It was so nice to see Lyssa expose that side of him. I loved getting to know Nikolai more, and I fell in love with him right alongside Lyssa. Lyssa was kind and considerate, but she stood her ground. I loved how fierce and determined she was. She was the perfect woman to be by Nikolai's side. I thought they balanced each other so well. I could read about them forever and ever!
Overall, this was a fantastic read. I am so glad I decided to pick this book up. If you are a fan of historical romances, then this is a book you definitely need to check out!
4 / 5 Fangs
*This ebook was given to me in exchange for a honest review. *
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It
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Right from the beginning, I was hooked to this book. The plot was just so addictive! Every time I finished a chapter, I just HAD to read the next chapter so I could figure out what was going to happen next. There was a bit of a lull in the plot near the middle of the book. However, it was thankfully very short-lived. There were also some predictable storylines, but I still enjoyed the story nonetheless!
Nikolai and Lyssa were fantastic together. Their banter was hilarious and filled with chemistry. I was laughing out loud at some of the things they said to each other. Also, the passion they shared was incredible!
The development of the romance was great. I thought Karen did a great job at pacing their relationship so it felt believable. I was shipping Lyssa and Nikolai so hard! I got to a point where I would internally scream anytime they would look at each other. Just thinking about them is making me fangirl as I write this review!
Lyssa and Nikolai were fantastic characters. Nikolai was a bit dark and serious, but he had a secret playful side. It was so nice to see Lyssa expose that side of him. I loved getting to know Nikolai more, and I fell in love with him right alongside Lyssa. Lyssa was kind and considerate, but she stood her ground. I loved how fierce and determined she was. She was the perfect woman to be by Nikolai's side. I thought they balanced each other so well. I could read about them forever and ever!
Overall, this was a fantastic read. I am so glad I decided to pick this book up. If you are a fan of historical romances, then this is a book you definitely need to check out!
4 / 5 Fangs
*This ebook was given to me in exchange for a honest review. *
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It
September 17, 2016
ARC REVIEW
I have been waiting for Nikolai's story from the very beginning. I was not let down you get to see the many facets of Nik from his Prince Nikolai Romanovian of Oxenburg to just Nik. I love books that start of with letters between the two main characters. Nik and Ailsa are both headstrong and stubborn, Nik however is use to knowing when to argue his point and when to drop it for later. Ailsa is use to being in charge, her father gave her the job of manager of the house and grounds and she has excelled at it. Ailsa and Nik are alike in many ways. Alisa is constantly pushing Nik's buttons to see how far she can push him. Nik has had years of court experience behind him the little Scottish woman shouldn't be able to push his buttons yet something about her just sets them all off.
Tata Natasha has gone off to visit an old friend while on this visit she disappears, not like she did the last time but kidnapped, along with a local landowner. Ailsa does her duty by informing HRH Nikolai explaining she has it handled. Nik not trusting an inexperienced person and not wanting this information to get out for fear someone might exploit the opportunity. So Nik and two of his most trusted friends and guards sneak off to help find and return Tata. Ailsa is worried that Nik might take charge and just run roughshod over her but he doesn't and even though she tries her best to do the rescue without him he's not a fool and is able to keep up with her and her men. Ailsa received a ransom note and to get to the rendezvous point in plenty of time the take the quickest but more dangerous route their. Along the way Nik and Ailsa argue over whether or not they should pay the ransom and it turns out there is a traitor in their midst. Nik and Ailsa are trying to keep from falling in each other's arms but the attraction is too strong and when they get separated from the group they admit their lust and spend what time they have together and what come after they rescue Tata will be dealt with later. Ailsa doesn't want to leave her home and Nik doesn't want the corruption of court to taint the sweet and naive Ailsa. But never fear Tata knows best.
Overall, I really liked this one, it's not my favorite of the series but it was perfect for Nik.
I have been waiting for Nikolai's story from the very beginning. I was not let down you get to see the many facets of Nik from his Prince Nikolai Romanovian of Oxenburg to just Nik. I love books that start of with letters between the two main characters. Nik and Ailsa are both headstrong and stubborn, Nik however is use to knowing when to argue his point and when to drop it for later. Ailsa is use to being in charge, her father gave her the job of manager of the house and grounds and she has excelled at it. Ailsa and Nik are alike in many ways. Alisa is constantly pushing Nik's buttons to see how far she can push him. Nik has had years of court experience behind him the little Scottish woman shouldn't be able to push his buttons yet something about her just sets them all off.
Tata Natasha has gone off to visit an old friend while on this visit she disappears, not like she did the last time but kidnapped, along with a local landowner. Ailsa does her duty by informing HRH Nikolai explaining she has it handled. Nik not trusting an inexperienced person and not wanting this information to get out for fear someone might exploit the opportunity. So Nik and two of his most trusted friends and guards sneak off to help find and return Tata. Ailsa is worried that Nik might take charge and just run roughshod over her but he doesn't and even though she tries her best to do the rescue without him he's not a fool and is able to keep up with her and her men. Ailsa received a ransom note and to get to the rendezvous point in plenty of time the take the quickest but more dangerous route their. Along the way Nik and Ailsa argue over whether or not they should pay the ransom and it turns out there is a traitor in their midst. Nik and Ailsa are trying to keep from falling in each other's arms but the attraction is too strong and when they get separated from the group they admit their lust and spend what time they have together and what come after they rescue Tata will be dealt with later. Ailsa doesn't want to leave her home and Nik doesn't want the corruption of court to taint the sweet and naive Ailsa. But never fear Tata knows best.
Overall, I really liked this one, it's not my favorite of the series but it was perfect for Nik.
August 19, 2016
Whenever you read a Karen Hawkins book you can count on being entertained by a witty, fast paced story that will capture your heart. Her words flow smoothly with lots of fun, laughter and a great sensual love
story. This is the fourth book in The Oxenburg Princes. The first three were amazing (The Prince Who Loved Me, The Prince and I, and The Princess Word Plaid) and this one is no different.
This story starts off with Prince Nikolai Romanovin of Oxenburg and Lady Alisa Mackenzie corresponding with each other while his Grandmother is in Scotland visiting an old friend and needs a trunk that apparently was not where it should be. The back and forth in this correspondence is hysterical and sets the tone for their future together.
When his Grandmother is kidnapped from Lady Alisa's home she notifies Nik that she is going to pay the ransom and she would let him know when his Grandmother is safe. There is no way that Nik is going to stand by and let a woman he doesn't know recover his Grandmother. He shows up at the home of Alisa's and the fireworks begin.
On their journey they come to know each other and find that they cannot keep their hands off each other. Nik is mystified about his attraction to Alisa and they both know that when his Grandmother is safe he has to go back to being a Prince and return to his country. Even though Alisa tells herself that a future with Nik is impossible she falls in love with him. Will she live her life in Scotland without her Prince, keeping her love for him a secret? Will Nick decide that Alisa is strong enough to handle the intrigue and constant demands of being married to Royalty? Oh and don't forget Nik's Grandmother the Duchess Natasha, she will play a major role in what happens.
I have always loved Karen's writing and look forward impatiently for her next book. Do not miss Karen's newest (dare I say) masterpiece!
Received a complimentary copy from the publisher for an honest review.
story. This is the fourth book in The Oxenburg Princes. The first three were amazing (The Prince Who Loved Me, The Prince and I, and The Princess Word Plaid) and this one is no different.
This story starts off with Prince Nikolai Romanovin of Oxenburg and Lady Alisa Mackenzie corresponding with each other while his Grandmother is in Scotland visiting an old friend and needs a trunk that apparently was not where it should be. The back and forth in this correspondence is hysterical and sets the tone for their future together.
When his Grandmother is kidnapped from Lady Alisa's home she notifies Nik that she is going to pay the ransom and she would let him know when his Grandmother is safe. There is no way that Nik is going to stand by and let a woman he doesn't know recover his Grandmother. He shows up at the home of Alisa's and the fireworks begin.
On their journey they come to know each other and find that they cannot keep their hands off each other. Nik is mystified about his attraction to Alisa and they both know that when his Grandmother is safe he has to go back to being a Prince and return to his country. Even though Alisa tells herself that a future with Nik is impossible she falls in love with him. Will she live her life in Scotland without her Prince, keeping her love for him a secret? Will Nick decide that Alisa is strong enough to handle the intrigue and constant demands of being married to Royalty? Oh and don't forget Nik's Grandmother the Duchess Natasha, she will play a major role in what happens.
I have always loved Karen's writing and look forward impatiently for her next book. Do not miss Karen's newest (dare I say) masterpiece!
Received a complimentary copy from the publisher for an honest review.
September 4, 2016
Right recipe for great romance, but it just didn't work for me. Perhaps because I thought that Alisa was a great, strong character, but I wasn't so into Nik. Plus, their romantic situations seemed forced to me. But I do love this author and will continue to wait for more.
February 6, 2017
...streched like chewing gum, that sticks to the sole of your shoes...
usually i like karen hawkins books very much and this series started out great and promising, but this story did nothing for me.
too much travelling, too little tata natasha !!!
usually i like karen hawkins books very much and this series started out great and promising, but this story did nothing for me.
too much travelling, too little tata natasha !!!
September 28, 2016
4.5 stars. It's fairly predictable, and there are some editing inconsistencies, but I liked it.
September 27, 2017
Another wonderful story from Karen Hawkins!! This is the first book in a new series and it promises to be amazing especially starting with the first story being about Conner Douglas! Conner and his three brothers travel to the home of their sister who is marred to a Duke. What they find is their sister has died giving birth and they are left with an inheritance from her that has stipulations! The brothers all have 4 months to wed in order to obtain those funds or they will go to another relative. Conner, being the most adventurous, feels he can just marry Theodora, who was a childhood friend and would probably never marry if he did not rescue her. That way he can still do all the things he is use to and not worry about Thea making objections! Well, so much for thinking that, because he finds Thea has eloped to Gretna Green with a local Squire and Douglas has to stop her! When he catches up with Thea he finds is a beautiful woman that pulls at his heart. What follows is an entertaining and heartfelt story that you need to read and be pulled into the story. I have read all of Karen's books and they are all in my "keep" stack to be reread one day! She is a wonderful storyteller and this is one that does not disappoint. Loved it! This book was furnished from the publisher for an honest review.
June 5, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed the book. With the exception of one tiny error. While out on a long horseback riding trip, our heroine is in breeches to make the long ride easier. Yet at one point it says she stopped and smoothed her skirts. (page 179). Oops. Otherwise, loved the book and the series.
March 14, 2017
DNF at 50%
I just couldn't get into this book. I really tried but at 50% I had to admit defeat and give up. If I had to sum this book up in one word I'd say boring. I came to expect more from Karen Hawkins book and I am very disappointed in this one.
I just couldn't get into this book. I really tried but at 50% I had to admit defeat and give up. If I had to sum this book up in one word I'd say boring. I came to expect more from Karen Hawkins book and I am very disappointed in this one.
August 30, 2016
This third installment of the Oxenburg Princes series has been much anticipated, as we are finally getting the story of the Crown Prince Nikolai Romanovin. This series has been a lot of fun and I'm a little sad that it's coming to an end. I would love to see more of Tata Natasha!
Nikolai Romanovin, heir to the throne of Oxenburg, is a man of many faces. Nikolai must play these many roles by necessity, as he is surrounded by betrayers, hangers on and those who want something from him. He has carefully cultivated his public persona of a carefree womanizing prince who doesn't take things seriously, and this serves him well when he must engage in cunning negotations. Having to play these parts has taken a toll on Nik, to the extent that when he stops playing the role around his closest friends and advisors, he often comes off as cold and abrupt. When Nik's grandmother, Tata Natasha, is abducted, traveling incognito allows Nik the freedom that he has not experienced in quite some time. Nikolai has been one of my favorite characters through the series, I was really looking forward to finding out the story behind our serious and broody prince. Unfortunately we didn't get much of Nik's backstory and I was missing a connection with his character. While I liked what we did get out of Nik, I would have loved a little more.
Lady Ailsa MacKenzie is the baby of the MacKenzie clan, the only unmarried sister with no plans to become so entangled in the future. She is serious, independent and stubborn beyond all measure. At only twenty-three years old, Ailsa's father has made her caretaker of Castle Leod. As this is an uncommon position for a woman, Ailsa feels she has something to prove. She needs to win over the castle staff and show all those bloody menfolk that she can do as good a job as any of them. I am down with the independent heroine and proving something to all the silly men... but I felt like Ailsa took it a bit too far at times. Her stubbornness knew no bounds, and she was determined to maintain her course of action despite the logic of other ideas.
The mystery behind the abduction of Tata Natasha was good... there was some misdirection thrown in so I wasn't quite sure of the culprit until the big reveal. Mad about the Plaid was an entertaining read and I enjoyed the time I spent reading it, but I was also missing some of the humor from the previous installments. The crazy matchmaking antics and Romany theatrics from Tata Natasha were limited in this story. Tata Natasha is my favorite character of the series so I really would have loved to see more from her. I think it would be fun if she had her own book, perhaps a romance with Lord Hamilton.
I received an advanced copy of this book from Pocket Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 3.5 stars / 3 flames. Full review posted at Bambi Unbridled.
Nikolai Romanovin, heir to the throne of Oxenburg, is a man of many faces. Nikolai must play these many roles by necessity, as he is surrounded by betrayers, hangers on and those who want something from him. He has carefully cultivated his public persona of a carefree womanizing prince who doesn't take things seriously, and this serves him well when he must engage in cunning negotations. Having to play these parts has taken a toll on Nik, to the extent that when he stops playing the role around his closest friends and advisors, he often comes off as cold and abrupt. When Nik's grandmother, Tata Natasha, is abducted, traveling incognito allows Nik the freedom that he has not experienced in quite some time. Nikolai has been one of my favorite characters through the series, I was really looking forward to finding out the story behind our serious and broody prince. Unfortunately we didn't get much of Nik's backstory and I was missing a connection with his character. While I liked what we did get out of Nik, I would have loved a little more.
Lady Ailsa MacKenzie is the baby of the MacKenzie clan, the only unmarried sister with no plans to become so entangled in the future. She is serious, independent and stubborn beyond all measure. At only twenty-three years old, Ailsa's father has made her caretaker of Castle Leod. As this is an uncommon position for a woman, Ailsa feels she has something to prove. She needs to win over the castle staff and show all those bloody menfolk that she can do as good a job as any of them. I am down with the independent heroine and proving something to all the silly men... but I felt like Ailsa took it a bit too far at times. Her stubbornness knew no bounds, and she was determined to maintain her course of action despite the logic of other ideas.
The mystery behind the abduction of Tata Natasha was good... there was some misdirection thrown in so I wasn't quite sure of the culprit until the big reveal. Mad about the Plaid was an entertaining read and I enjoyed the time I spent reading it, but I was also missing some of the humor from the previous installments. The crazy matchmaking antics and Romany theatrics from Tata Natasha were limited in this story. Tata Natasha is my favorite character of the series so I really would have loved to see more from her. I think it would be fun if she had her own book, perhaps a romance with Lord Hamilton.
I received an advanced copy of this book from Pocket Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 3.5 stars / 3 flames. Full review posted at Bambi Unbridled.
September 21, 2016
First, the blurb gives somewhat wrong impression of this story, but the story itself is highly entertaining and fascinating.
So Nik's grandmother goes to visit her acquaintance in Scotland and Nik is forced to exchange several letters with the acquaintance grandchild, since his grandmother forgot her "small" trunk behind and she needed it urgently. When the trunk is finally sent, another letter comes and this letter makes Nik urgently leave his dealings and go to Scotland since his grandmother is missing, possibly kidnapped.
Alisa has been the laird of the castle since her sister were married and her father went to city to live an easier life. She likes what she does and she is proud of her castle and she has steeled with the knowledge, that she will never marry, since she is not as pretty as her sisters and she has better to do than to look for a husband.
When her grandmothers annoying guest goes missing one morning with their neighbor and later on they discover they were kidnapped, she must act at once to prevent clan war. When the quest's grandchild's bodyguards arrive, her troubles are doubled, since now she also has to prevent an international scandal. With the bodyguards arrives an strange stabelboy, only this stabelboy is not really a stabelboy, but a prince dressed like a stabelboy, so nobody would know that Nik has left with minimum of his guards.
Against Alisa's wish she has to agree to take prince and his guards with her, but she really does not want to involve them, so she sets out hours earlier than was agreed, but she is not the only one with sly plans, so they all leave together, just shy after each other.
By the evening they are all together and together they continue from there on. But their journey is not without strange accidents. During their week long journey the are set up on by brigands, they are shot at, they got caught in snow, in thunder storm and Nik's horse looses his footing. But they will arrive in agreed up on place at the end.
During this journey Nik and Alisa find time to growl at each other, to care gently at each other, to make war plans, to fall deeply in love and still love/hate each other. Through all the story there are couple of hints who could be behind all of this or why wold somebody so this, but for me the culprit was total surprise.
So when grandmother is rescued and culprit is chained, it's time for Nik and Alisa to say good byes, it does not matter, that they long for each other, Alisa will not leave her castle and Nik, as crown prince, must marry somebody suitable. Grandmother calls them stupid children, but she will not push them, not jet anyway :).
It was fun and interesting read. Seriously I had at least for possibilities why was the kidnapping happening and who was behind it and I thoroughly enjoyed the journey to the end, even if I knew from the beginning that the end will be with happily ever after for Nik and Alisa.
So Nik's grandmother goes to visit her acquaintance in Scotland and Nik is forced to exchange several letters with the acquaintance grandchild, since his grandmother forgot her "small" trunk behind and she needed it urgently. When the trunk is finally sent, another letter comes and this letter makes Nik urgently leave his dealings and go to Scotland since his grandmother is missing, possibly kidnapped.
Alisa has been the laird of the castle since her sister were married and her father went to city to live an easier life. She likes what she does and she is proud of her castle and she has steeled with the knowledge, that she will never marry, since she is not as pretty as her sisters and she has better to do than to look for a husband.
When her grandmothers annoying guest goes missing one morning with their neighbor and later on they discover they were kidnapped, she must act at once to prevent clan war. When the quest's grandchild's bodyguards arrive, her troubles are doubled, since now she also has to prevent an international scandal. With the bodyguards arrives an strange stabelboy, only this stabelboy is not really a stabelboy, but a prince dressed like a stabelboy, so nobody would know that Nik has left with minimum of his guards.
Against Alisa's wish she has to agree to take prince and his guards with her, but she really does not want to involve them, so she sets out hours earlier than was agreed, but she is not the only one with sly plans, so they all leave together, just shy after each other.
By the evening they are all together and together they continue from there on. But their journey is not without strange accidents. During their week long journey the are set up on by brigands, they are shot at, they got caught in snow, in thunder storm and Nik's horse looses his footing. But they will arrive in agreed up on place at the end.
During this journey Nik and Alisa find time to growl at each other, to care gently at each other, to make war plans, to fall deeply in love and still love/hate each other. Through all the story there are couple of hints who could be behind all of this or why wold somebody so this, but for me the culprit was total surprise.
So when grandmother is rescued and culprit is chained, it's time for Nik and Alisa to say good byes, it does not matter, that they long for each other, Alisa will not leave her castle and Nik, as crown prince, must marry somebody suitable. Grandmother calls them stupid children, but she will not push them, not jet anyway :).
It was fun and interesting read. Seriously I had at least for possibilities why was the kidnapping happening and who was behind it and I thoroughly enjoyed the journey to the end, even if I knew from the beginning that the end will be with happily ever after for Nik and Alisa.
August 31, 2016
I received a free ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion.
Ailsa wants nothing more than to run the family estate while her father is away, which he is most of the time. Her grandmother also lives with her and be quite the handful.
Nikolas, Prince of Oxenburg receives word from Ailsa that his grandmother, Tatiana, is missing. She was visiting with Ailsa's grandmother and apparently left with a friend and neighbor.
Nik basically comes to Scotland undercover, as a groom, with 2 of his men. He doesn't want anyone from Oxenburg to know where he is.
Ailsa has received a ransom note and plans on paying it. Nik doesn't agree so they are immediately butting heads. Ailsa tries to sneak away earlier on the day they are to leave to deliver the ransom money but Nik is already thinking her way.
The trip will take 4-5 days in cold, snowy weather. Plus they run the risk of being robbed or more by bandits. As Ailsa and Nik continue to butt heads, their attraction grows. Danger is also with them...
Will they survive each other and the danger?
Nik comes from a country where women do as they are told. Although, due to the time in history, it happens like this in Scotland also Aisla is her own woman. This is a standalone book and part of a series. I have read many of Ms Hawkin's books and enjoyed this also.
I liked that Ailsa wasn't the classic beauty that men fall over their feet for. She was good looking and smart. She'd had marriage offers in the past but she wanted love.
Nik was down on love. When he was a teen and thought he was in love, he later learned that the woman was only after him because he would run the country someday. Due to his position, he'd had many people try and use him.
Besides love, I liked that both characters learned much about themselves on this journey. They didn't realize that there were areas that they were lacking in when dealing with staff and countrymen.
This is a good read as Ms. Hawkins writes very well.
Ailsa wants nothing more than to run the family estate while her father is away, which he is most of the time. Her grandmother also lives with her and be quite the handful.
Nikolas, Prince of Oxenburg receives word from Ailsa that his grandmother, Tatiana, is missing. She was visiting with Ailsa's grandmother and apparently left with a friend and neighbor.
Nik basically comes to Scotland undercover, as a groom, with 2 of his men. He doesn't want anyone from Oxenburg to know where he is.
Ailsa has received a ransom note and plans on paying it. Nik doesn't agree so they are immediately butting heads. Ailsa tries to sneak away earlier on the day they are to leave to deliver the ransom money but Nik is already thinking her way.
The trip will take 4-5 days in cold, snowy weather. Plus they run the risk of being robbed or more by bandits. As Ailsa and Nik continue to butt heads, their attraction grows. Danger is also with them...
Will they survive each other and the danger?
Nik comes from a country where women do as they are told. Although, due to the time in history, it happens like this in Scotland also Aisla is her own woman. This is a standalone book and part of a series. I have read many of Ms Hawkin's books and enjoyed this also.
I liked that Ailsa wasn't the classic beauty that men fall over their feet for. She was good looking and smart. She'd had marriage offers in the past but she wanted love.
Nik was down on love. When he was a teen and thought he was in love, he later learned that the woman was only after him because he would run the country someday. Due to his position, he'd had many people try and use him.
Besides love, I liked that both characters learned much about themselves on this journey. They didn't realize that there were areas that they were lacking in when dealing with staff and countrymen.
This is a good read as Ms. Hawkins writes very well.
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