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Her Highland Defender
While six thousand Scots follow Robert the Bruce to wage war on the English at Bannockburn, Blane Ross is fighting his own war—single-handedly. After the indiscriminate slaughter of his village at the hands of English mercenaries, he wants revenge. However, when he stops at a castle for information and rest, he doesn’t expect to come across a fierce, beautiful lass in sole charge.
Desperate for help, Ceana rejoices at the arrival of this impressive stranger. Dealing with her errant younger sister and her eccentric mother while trying to protect their clan hasn’t been easy. With all the men joining to fight against the English, it’s up to Ceana to ensure their fathers and brothers have a home to return to.
Her one secret doesn’t make matters any easier...
However, Blane doesn’t have time to aid the attractive lass, no matter how much her haunting blue eyes tug at a heart he thought had turned to stone long ago. The only way he’ll ever feel whole again is to ensure the mercenaries pay. But when she reveals her weakness, he has no choice but to offer her a few days of his time.
Before long, Blane receives his chance for revenge, but at what cost? Will Ceana and her family pay the price for his negligence just as his village did? Or can he protect them, even while he finds himself drawn to the stubborn woman and blinded by an attraction deeper than his thirst for English blood?
Desperate for help, Ceana rejoices at the arrival of this impressive stranger. Dealing with her errant younger sister and her eccentric mother while trying to protect their clan hasn’t been easy. With all the men joining to fight against the English, it’s up to Ceana to ensure their fathers and brothers have a home to return to.
Her one secret doesn’t make matters any easier...
However, Blane doesn’t have time to aid the attractive lass, no matter how much her haunting blue eyes tug at a heart he thought had turned to stone long ago. The only way he’ll ever feel whole again is to ensure the mercenaries pay. But when she reveals her weakness, he has no choice but to offer her a few days of his time.
Before long, Blane receives his chance for revenge, but at what cost? Will Ceana and her family pay the price for his negligence just as his village did? Or can he protect them, even while he finds himself drawn to the stubborn woman and blinded by an attraction deeper than his thirst for English blood?
151 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 12, 2015
About the author
Samantha Holt
256 books703 followersSamantha Holt resides in Warwickshire, England, with her twin girls, having followed her soldier husband around the UK for nearly 10 years. Growing up in Hampshire, she was inspired by the authors Jane Austen and Elizabeth Gaskell, both of whom lived and wrote only miles from her home town.
Samantha loves the romance genre and has been devouring romantic literature for as long as she can remember. History is another passion of hers and she loves to combine her love for history and romance into exciting and passionate tales.
Samantha loves the romance genre and has been devouring romantic literature for as long as she can remember. History is another passion of hers and she loves to combine her love for history and romance into exciting and passionate tales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
December 22, 2015
Not a favorite..
This was another cute novella by Ms. Holt BUT I really disliked Kate, and there’s no changing my mind when I start to dislike someone, even if she turns out in the end. She’s a complete brat, just like the kids today and I just hate that. If you’re going to put a teenager in a historical book don’t make them like 21st century teenagers. I’m sure that kids back then could be a little belligerent but I can’t see them being as bad as her.
I did like Ceana. She was so strong, trying to take care of everyone in the keep, while she was nearly blind. And I liked that Blane became so protective of her, once he found out.
AND THEN! The author gave Ceana her TSTL moment. At about 60% I almost stopped reading. I’m so tired of authors giving us brave, smart, strong heroines then making her completely stupid. . This part totally ruined the book for me. It would have been bad enough Ceana could see but with her being blind made it even more stupid. And what she and Blane went through because of her? It was just brutal and unnecessary. It was a decent story but disappointing.
This book didn’t have any sexual tension, to speak of, but it had some good sex in it. It certainly wasn’t one of my favorite reads by Ms. Holt.
This was another cute novella by Ms. Holt BUT I really disliked Kate, and there’s no changing my mind when I start to dislike someone, even if she turns out in the end. She’s a complete brat, just like the kids today and I just hate that. If you’re going to put a teenager in a historical book don’t make them like 21st century teenagers. I’m sure that kids back then could be a little belligerent but I can’t see them being as bad as her.
I did like Ceana. She was so strong, trying to take care of everyone in the keep, while she was nearly blind. And I liked that Blane became so protective of her, once he found out.
AND THEN! The author gave Ceana her TSTL moment. At about 60% I almost stopped reading. I’m so tired of authors giving us brave, smart, strong heroines then making her completely stupid. . This part totally ruined the book for me. It would have been bad enough Ceana could see but with her being blind made it even more stupid. And what she and Blane went through because of her? It was just brutal and unnecessary. It was a decent story but disappointing.
This book didn’t have any sexual tension, to speak of, but it had some good sex in it. It certainly wasn’t one of my favorite reads by Ms. Holt.
December 23, 2019
Her Highland Defender by Samantha Holt is the story of Blane and Ceana.
Blane is out to get revenge against the English mercenaries who destroyed his village. This leads him to come to Cenana family castle to rest. Ceana's is working to keep the castle going after the men in her family leave to war. But when Blane comes she thinks he could be what she needs to help ensure their castle.
I enjoyed this book and hope to read more from Ms. Holt.
Blane is out to get revenge against the English mercenaries who destroyed his village. This leads him to come to Cenana family castle to rest. Ceana's is working to keep the castle going after the men in her family leave to war. But when Blane comes she thinks he could be what she needs to help ensure their castle.
I enjoyed this book and hope to read more from Ms. Holt.
November 17, 2015
Dangerous, passionate and intriguing!
An absolute delight to read with engaging, exciting and passionate characters. I loved how the author integrated a disability, the heroine, into the story. How she dealt with her disability, accepted it and still achieved love and her HEA. The hero was strong, manly and powerful, plus, I loved how he dealt with our heroine's disability.
Fast paced, dangerous, intriguing with Scottish Highlanders and a wickedly delicious storyline. A must read. Fans of Scottish Romance, Historical Romance, Medieval era, the conflict between England and Scotland will definitely enjoy this story. A satisfying and interesting read!
*Personal buy*
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
An absolute delight to read with engaging, exciting and passionate characters. I loved how the author integrated a disability, the heroine, into the story. How she dealt with her disability, accepted it and still achieved love and her HEA. The hero was strong, manly and powerful, plus, I loved how he dealt with our heroine's disability.
Fast paced, dangerous, intriguing with Scottish Highlanders and a wickedly delicious storyline. A must read. Fans of Scottish Romance, Historical Romance, Medieval era, the conflict between England and Scotland will definitely enjoy this story. A satisfying and interesting read!
*Personal buy*
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
December 8, 2019
Second Sight💕. Something To Live💘 For!
Scottish🐑🐂 Highlands 1314...the time of Robert The Bruce and the war with the English King, Edward II.
Alpha Male ADULT Historical Romance💕 and Adventure.
Blane Ross🐺🔪💪👊 is a lone Scottish soldier chasing down the British barbarian mercenaries infesting the highlands. He comes upon a small keep🏰 high above a loch, where he hopes to rest himself and his 🐎horse.
He discovers only two young women💃💃 in the castle🏰. The chief is off with his men fighting the English as are most of the men in the small surrounding village. Many of the rest are Dead💀 from sickness, leaving the keep🏰 open to attack and sacking.
The chief's older daughter, Ceana💃💋, immediately draws him to her. She is beautiful but strange, then he realizes she is nearly blind. Her will is strong, but can one huge highland brute🐺🔪💪👊 protect her from an inevitable attack?
The attraction between the two causes Ceana
💃💋to decide to take her future in her own hands, and go to Blane🐺🍆⛲🔪 during the night. She has nothing left to lose, being a widow💔 and in uncertain times. She wants to have a memory to look back on when Blane🐺🍆⛲🔪💪👊 is gone.
ARC Received from Booksprout🌱
I also got this ebook with KU.
This is a wonderful 💘and emotional love story and is not overly long. I read it in a few hours, and it was well worth the time. I have read a good number of MS Holt's historical romances and they never fail to please!
Scottish🐑🐂 Highlands 1314...the time of Robert The Bruce and the war with the English King, Edward II.
Alpha Male ADULT Historical Romance💕 and Adventure.
Blane Ross🐺🔪💪👊 is a lone Scottish soldier chasing down the British barbarian mercenaries infesting the highlands. He comes upon a small keep🏰 high above a loch, where he hopes to rest himself and his 🐎horse.
He discovers only two young women💃💃 in the castle🏰. The chief is off with his men fighting the English as are most of the men in the small surrounding village. Many of the rest are Dead💀 from sickness, leaving the keep🏰 open to attack and sacking.
The chief's older daughter, Ceana💃💋, immediately draws him to her. She is beautiful but strange, then he realizes she is nearly blind. Her will is strong, but can one huge highland brute🐺🔪💪👊 protect her from an inevitable attack?
The attraction between the two causes Ceana
💃💋to decide to take her future in her own hands, and go to Blane🐺🍆⛲🔪 during the night. She has nothing left to lose, being a widow💔 and in uncertain times. She wants to have a memory to look back on when Blane🐺🍆⛲🔪💪👊 is gone.
ARC Received from Booksprout🌱
I also got this ebook with KU.
This is a wonderful 💘and emotional love story and is not overly long. I read it in a few hours, and it was well worth the time. I have read a good number of MS Holt's historical romances and they never fail to please!
January 3, 2020
Scottish Highlands, 1314
Blane Ross was on a mission to tract with the English who had brutally attacked his clan and caused so many deaths. With Robert the Bruce facing down Edward II, no stranger could be trusted and he was wary. But he had to rest and saw a castle down in the valley.
What he finds is two sisters and a few servants but naught else to defend the castle. Ceana is the eldest and currently the head due to all the men going to war against the English and the ones who had been left had died of the fever. But when Blane arrives, she begins to have hope he will stay until others arrive and she will even tell him her secret.
A fast paced story with wonderful characters that come alive and drew me quickly into their lives. I could not wait to see what would happen to these two, with Blane anxious to leave and catch the English, but Ceara desperate for him to stay.
I have read almost everything Samantha Holt has written since about 2017 so it is wonderful to go back and read some of her older works. She is an amazing writer and once you read one of her tales, you will want to go read everything! Well done!
This author is one I read everytime she has a new book published. So it has been great going back and reading some older stories, with this one being one of the best!
Blane Ross was on a mission to tract with the English who had brutally attacked his clan and caused so many deaths. With Robert the Bruce facing down Edward II, no stranger could be trusted and he was wary. But he had to rest and saw a castle down in the valley.
What he finds is two sisters and a few servants but naught else to defend the castle. Ceana is the eldest and currently the head due to all the men going to war against the English and the ones who had been left had died of the fever. But when Blane arrives, she begins to have hope he will stay until others arrive and she will even tell him her secret.
A fast paced story with wonderful characters that come alive and drew me quickly into their lives. I could not wait to see what would happen to these two, with Blane anxious to leave and catch the English, but Ceara desperate for him to stay.
I have read almost everything Samantha Holt has written since about 2017 so it is wonderful to go back and read some of her older works. She is an amazing writer and once you read one of her tales, you will want to go read everything! Well done!
This author is one I read everytime she has a new book published. So it has been great going back and reading some older stories, with this one being one of the best!
December 9, 2019
A sweet story. Ceana is a fierce lass who is trying to protect her people in the absence of their warriors. She is almost blind but determined to function fully. Blaine is searching for the English who killed his villagers when he stumbles into Ceana’s. The story tells the tale of their growing desire for each other. As they struggle to keep everyone safe by fending off the English without losing their lives. It is a story of fate and accepting people as they are.
December 30, 2019
3.5 stars
It took me a while to get into this book and all the action took part in the second half of the book. The main characters of Blane and Ceana were likeable, although sometimes Ceana acted without thinking through the consequences. Ceana was very protective of her family and kin folk. They had an attraction but Blane had his own mission. Although I enjoyed the story after half way, it just took a little too long to get going for me. I received a copy via Booksprout and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It took me a while to get into this book and all the action took part in the second half of the book. The main characters of Blane and Ceana were likeable, although sometimes Ceana acted without thinking through the consequences. Ceana was very protective of her family and kin folk. They had an attraction but Blane had his own mission. Although I enjoyed the story after half way, it just took a little too long to get going for me. I received a copy via Booksprout and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 7, 2020
Excellent Heroine, Even if Stupid at the End
I have read a fair amount of books by Samantha Holt, and unfortunately, I find that the quality of her books is variable in quality. You never know what you're going to get. But her good ones are good enough that I still check out every one when it shows up on my favorite book review site. Luckily, this is one of the good ones.
This book had an unusual heroine, and I always love it when an author chooses to give a main character a very different trait or physical disability. In this particular book, the heroine has trouble with her vision. She is nearly blind. In good light, she can see shapes and colors, but everything is blurry and indistinct. And in the poor light of the castle where she lives, she can't see much at all. But she is super resilient. She has counted planks and paces, knows every uneven part of the flooring, and has a mental map of the layout of her home. She is but surprisingly independent and works very hard. In the book, we see her not only as the chatelaine (and current protector) but also mucking out stalls and beating laundry at a stream. She tries to be cautious (and still stumbles too often), but her poor vision doesn't keep her from doing what she wants or needs to do. I like the hero in this book, mostly for the way he treated the heroine. He does learn of her vision issues after a little while, but he neither pities nor shuns her, which are both common reactions that have happened to her. He treats her with respect like anybody else, like the strong woman she is, while still trying to protect her and help her protect her people, even if she fights him on it.
There were a few things that I didn't like about this novel. For instance, I don't think that *all* the men of the heroine’s castle would have gone to fight the big battle at the Bruce’s side, leaving the women and children back at the castle and village completely vulnerable and unprotected. In most books I read, a small contingent of warriors is left behind. Of course, this is fiction, so I don't know what it is historically accurate. But it just seems odd.
I enjoyed getting to know the couple as they got to know each other. But towards the last third or quarter of the book, things got a little odd because the heroine acted stupidly. I hate it when the plot turns on the heroine acting stupidly. It happens far too often in romances and some female-driven fantasy as well. She was not foreshadowed as being as impulsive as that moment of stupidity, though I don't know if foreshadowing could have revealed the magnitude needed to justify the stupidity. She had to have known, seriously, that the hero would come after her, endangering himself. Duh! My other issue with a book, as with all of this author's books, is that there were numerous issues with grammar, punctuation, and usage, so much to be distracting at times. Commas were particularly problematic, especially the required one between independent clauses in a compound sentence joined by a coordinating conjunction. This author puts out a ton of books, and she could afford to get these copyedited—or hire a better copyeditor.
All in all, though, I completely enjoyed this story, reading it for longer than I should have when I should have been doing other things. I think it was mostly because the heroine was so well drawn and very sympathetic, and the hero was what you would want him to be for that kind of woman.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
I have read a fair amount of books by Samantha Holt, and unfortunately, I find that the quality of her books is variable in quality. You never know what you're going to get. But her good ones are good enough that I still check out every one when it shows up on my favorite book review site. Luckily, this is one of the good ones.
This book had an unusual heroine, and I always love it when an author chooses to give a main character a very different trait or physical disability. In this particular book, the heroine has trouble with her vision. She is nearly blind. In good light, she can see shapes and colors, but everything is blurry and indistinct. And in the poor light of the castle where she lives, she can't see much at all. But she is super resilient. She has counted planks and paces, knows every uneven part of the flooring, and has a mental map of the layout of her home. She is but surprisingly independent and works very hard. In the book, we see her not only as the chatelaine (and current protector) but also mucking out stalls and beating laundry at a stream. She tries to be cautious (and still stumbles too often), but her poor vision doesn't keep her from doing what she wants or needs to do. I like the hero in this book, mostly for the way he treated the heroine. He does learn of her vision issues after a little while, but he neither pities nor shuns her, which are both common reactions that have happened to her. He treats her with respect like anybody else, like the strong woman she is, while still trying to protect her and help her protect her people, even if she fights him on it.
There were a few things that I didn't like about this novel. For instance, I don't think that *all* the men of the heroine’s castle would have gone to fight the big battle at the Bruce’s side, leaving the women and children back at the castle and village completely vulnerable and unprotected. In most books I read, a small contingent of warriors is left behind. Of course, this is fiction, so I don't know what it is historically accurate. But it just seems odd.
I enjoyed getting to know the couple as they got to know each other. But towards the last third or quarter of the book, things got a little odd because the heroine acted stupidly. I hate it when the plot turns on the heroine acting stupidly. It happens far too often in romances and some female-driven fantasy as well. She was not foreshadowed as being as impulsive as that moment of stupidity, though I don't know if foreshadowing could have revealed the magnitude needed to justify the stupidity. She had to have known, seriously, that the hero would come after her, endangering himself. Duh! My other issue with a book, as with all of this author's books, is that there were numerous issues with grammar, punctuation, and usage, so much to be distracting at times. Commas were particularly problematic, especially the required one between independent clauses in a compound sentence joined by a coordinating conjunction. This author puts out a ton of books, and she could afford to get these copyedited—or hire a better copyeditor.
All in all, though, I completely enjoyed this story, reading it for longer than I should have when I should have been doing other things. I think it was mostly because the heroine was so well drawn and very sympathetic, and the hero was what you would want him to be for that kind of woman.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
January 1, 2020
What a gripping unpredictable romance this is. Blane of Ross Clan of Glenlochan was out for vengeance against a group of rogue English soldiers who slaughtered his native village. Tracking them for days he and his horse needed rest and sustenance. He came across a small village and fortress. He saw that there were no warriors to protect the fortress. All he needed was hospitality and he would be on his way. He would not get involved with the problems of the fortress. Then he met the beautiful Ceana. She is the daughter of the Chief of the Malcolm Clan and was in charge of protecting the castle and the villagers. Ceana believed Blane to be the answer to her prayers and she literally had to beg him to stay and help them. He agreed to three days. Ceana was waiting for her cousin and his men to come to their aid. Five days later Blane was still there. A romance had begun between he and Ceana. But they both knew he would never give up his quest for revenge and one day soon he would leave. Suddenly the rogue warriors were spotted and they had taken Ceana's younger spirited sister hostage. Without Blane's consent Ceana went to the men and traded herself for her sister. Ceana was not shy and she would gladly face any danger to save those she loved and cared for. She was a brave lass. When Blane found out he went to rescue her. He found he had another reason to live. He loved her and would see her safe. There was so much action in this story. It is indeed a page turner. Blane and Ceana made a good match. They both brave and would give their lives to keep those that mattered safe. But what happened after she was captured almost cost her life. So many complications so many dangerous situations and yet Blane and Ceana were determined to deal with it all. Ceana is an inspiration. When you read this, you will understand what I mean. I really enjoyed reading this and do recommend it.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Action-packed
Entertaining
Inspirational
Page-turner
Romantic
Unpredictable
Wonderful characters
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Action-packed
Entertaining
Inspirational
Page-turner
Romantic
Unpredictable
Wonderful characters
December 18, 2019
There are a few Spoilers in me review.
Blane Ross is out for revenge against the English who killed his clan members. As he is tracking them across the Scottish highlands he comes across a castle and a small village. He decides to go to the castle to ask for food and somewhere to rest for himself and his mare. But as he nears the area appears to be deserted but since there is no blood staining the ground decides the people must be hiding.
Ceana Malcolm was left in charge of her people when her father and brother went to fight with the Bruce against the English. Ceana has a secret though, one that not many know. Ceana is near blind, but she doesn't let this stop her from defending and protecting her clan. Which she intends to do against this stranger who has come across their village.
Blane agrees to stay a few days until Ceana's cousin arrives when she reveals that she is near blind. But her cousin doesn't arrive on the day he should and Ceana is taken hostage by the group of English that Blane had been tracking. Blane, determined not to fail the woman he has fallen in love with, sets out to rescue her. But will Blane be able to save Ceana and create a life with her by his side?
Normally I enjoy Samantha Holt's books but this one kind of fell flat for me. To me it's as if some things were left out, Ceana's mother, for instance, starts being referred to as Aileen but up until then her name hadn't been introduced. And when Ceana is taken, her captor suddenly has the name of Sir Guy but until then it hadn't been referenced. Not saying these detract from the story, I just thought it kind of odd.
I do hope others enjoy the book more than I did.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Blane Ross is out for revenge against the English who killed his clan members. As he is tracking them across the Scottish highlands he comes across a castle and a small village. He decides to go to the castle to ask for food and somewhere to rest for himself and his mare. But as he nears the area appears to be deserted but since there is no blood staining the ground decides the people must be hiding.
Ceana Malcolm was left in charge of her people when her father and brother went to fight with the Bruce against the English. Ceana has a secret though, one that not many know. Ceana is near blind, but she doesn't let this stop her from defending and protecting her clan. Which she intends to do against this stranger who has come across their village.
Blane agrees to stay a few days until Ceana's cousin arrives when she reveals that she is near blind. But her cousin doesn't arrive on the day he should and Ceana is taken hostage by the group of English that Blane had been tracking. Blane, determined not to fail the woman he has fallen in love with, sets out to rescue her. But will Blane be able to save Ceana and create a life with her by his side?
Normally I enjoy Samantha Holt's books but this one kind of fell flat for me. To me it's as if some things were left out, Ceana's mother, for instance, starts being referred to as Aileen but up until then her name hadn't been introduced. And when Ceana is taken, her captor suddenly has the name of Sir Guy but until then it hadn't been referenced. Not saying these detract from the story, I just thought it kind of odd.
I do hope others enjoy the book more than I did.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 31, 2019
HER HIGHLAND DEFENDER is a stand-alone, historical romance set in the Highlands of Scotland during the First War of Scottish Independence against England in 1314.
I loved the strength of the Scottish women, left behind to mind the keep while their kin went off to war. This is our legacy. None is stronger than Ceana; near blind since birth, her father still trusted her with castle, keep, and village until someone could be sent to help.
Blane is fighting more than the English. He’s fighting the demons of guilt and revenge, until a blue-eyed lass captures him quicker than any sword could.
I loved reading about Blane and Ceana. They each had strength, loyalty, fearlessness, and compassion, but they also had faults. Ceana was headstrong and so determined to prove that her lack of sight didn’t hinder her, that she failed to “see” that we all need help at times. Blane was allowing revenge to lead him at first.
I loved seeing them grasp the life in front of them with both fists. War has a way of clarifying the timeline of a life. I loved that each was so willing to give for the other; to me, that is a sign of true love that will last.
I enjoyed this story and kept sneaking away from my chores to read… just…one… more….chapter. I look forward to reading more from Samantha Holt!
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via Booksprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: HER HIGHLAND DEFENDER
Series: N/A
Category /Genre: Historical Romance
Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content
Grammar/editing: A – near perfect
Received from: Samantha Holt (as an ARC gifted copy)
I loved the strength of the Scottish women, left behind to mind the keep while their kin went off to war. This is our legacy. None is stronger than Ceana; near blind since birth, her father still trusted her with castle, keep, and village until someone could be sent to help.
Blane is fighting more than the English. He’s fighting the demons of guilt and revenge, until a blue-eyed lass captures him quicker than any sword could.
I loved reading about Blane and Ceana. They each had strength, loyalty, fearlessness, and compassion, but they also had faults. Ceana was headstrong and so determined to prove that her lack of sight didn’t hinder her, that she failed to “see” that we all need help at times. Blane was allowing revenge to lead him at first.
I loved seeing them grasp the life in front of them with both fists. War has a way of clarifying the timeline of a life. I loved that each was so willing to give for the other; to me, that is a sign of true love that will last.
I enjoyed this story and kept sneaking away from my chores to read… just…one… more….chapter. I look forward to reading more from Samantha Holt!
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via Booksprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: HER HIGHLAND DEFENDER
Series: N/A
Category /Genre: Historical Romance
Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content
Grammar/editing: A – near perfect
Received from: Samantha Holt (as an ARC gifted copy)
March 13, 2018
Not bad; not great.
Fairly well-written, but with too many oddly worded sentences to continuously yank me out of the story in order to mentally reword things so that they made sense.
"For many moments, neither of them moved." (sounds like a lifetime to me!)
"rested her ankle for a day was quite the miracle" (huh?)
“I care not what they will think." she refused to think on what they might think of her."
and a whole lot of "She shook her head to herself." and "shook his head to himself."
I also find it impossible to believe that a Laird in that time period (turbulent as well) would leave the fortification of his entire Keep to not only a daughter, but a nearly blind daughter at that.
No. As modern-minded as you wish to believe you are today, and how utterly perfect you believe yourself to be by comparison to those who lived a'for ye, this just wouldn't have occurred.
I felt little connection between the two leads because, as usual, everything occurred way too fast to be believed. Insta-love, insta-sex, and insta-commitment that never sits well with me.
I did not mind the two leads on their own, though, so the author is fairly adept at character development.
However, she wrote the younger sister like some modern day, self-serving brat whose head is loaded with "My mommy said" entitlement crapola.
Again, no. Back then, that type of behavior would have been beaten out of any willful child at a much earlier age for it to be allowed to fester and spawn Satan's lovechild later on, thank you.
Three cheers for the good auld deys! ;-)
Fairly well-written, but with too many oddly worded sentences to continuously yank me out of the story in order to mentally reword things so that they made sense.
"For many moments, neither of them moved." (sounds like a lifetime to me!)
"rested her ankle for a day was quite the miracle" (huh?)
“I care not what they will think." she refused to think on what they might think of her."
and a whole lot of "She shook her head to herself." and "shook his head to himself."
I also find it impossible to believe that a Laird in that time period (turbulent as well) would leave the fortification of his entire Keep to not only a daughter, but a nearly blind daughter at that.
No. As modern-minded as you wish to believe you are today, and how utterly perfect you believe yourself to be by comparison to those who lived a'for ye, this just wouldn't have occurred.
I felt little connection between the two leads because, as usual, everything occurred way too fast to be believed. Insta-love, insta-sex, and insta-commitment that never sits well with me.
I did not mind the two leads on their own, though, so the author is fairly adept at character development.
However, she wrote the younger sister like some modern day, self-serving brat whose head is loaded with "My mommy said" entitlement crapola.
Again, no. Back then, that type of behavior would have been beaten out of any willful child at a much earlier age for it to be allowed to fester and spawn Satan's lovechild later on, thank you.
Three cheers for the good auld deys! ;-)
January 16, 2020
This is a riveting, suspenseful, entertaining and romantic story. After his clan is wiped out by the English, Blane is on the hunt for them. When he comes across a castle that is eerily quiet, he thinks that it's deserted, but then he sees a woman and child. Ceana, as the chief's daughter, feels it's her responsibility to protect the women and children living in the castle and village while the men are away fighting. But she finds herself trusting the stranger, and invites him to the castle for food and rest. Her sister is not so trusting, and that causes tension between them, driving Kate into the arms of a man she's not supposed to be around. Ceana begs Blane to stay with them until her cousin shows up, just in case she needs his help to defend the castle from the English. Blane initially refuses, but after he leaves, he can't help worrying about Ceana, because being almost blind makes her pretty useless in a fight. He stays and they grow closer. When the English show up, they kidnap Kate. Ceana switches places with Kate, and Blane is back to tracking them down. Unfortunately, he isn't all that good in a fight, so nothing goes smoothly or easily. Other than being a bit disappointed in Blane, I loved this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
December 30, 2019
3 1/2 Stars rounded up to 4 Stars - The hero, Blane Ross can think of nothing but revenge against the English who killed his clan members. In his search in the Scotland highlands, he comes across a small village with a castle but no one around to ask for food & resting place for himself & his horse. He realizes that since there is no blood or looks of a battle, the residents must be hidden.
Our heroine, Ceana Malcolm, has been left by her father & brother while they go & fight against the English. She has been left responsible for the safety & welfare of her people. Ceana is almost blind, a secret that only a few people but this will not deter her from protecting her clan when a stranger comes to her village.
Even with her near blindness, I enjoyed Ceana as she made a wonderful heroine as she was feisty, strong but not afraid to ask for aid from the handsome Blane when he appears at the castle. Blane can't deny the need to help Ceane out & agrees to stay a few days until her cousin arrives. Moving on from here, we have romance, a kidnapping & a lot of action with the conflict between Scotland & England but most importantly a HEA.
This is lovely novella that can be read in a few hours & I highly recommend it to all historical romance readers.
Our heroine, Ceana Malcolm, has been left by her father & brother while they go & fight against the English. She has been left responsible for the safety & welfare of her people. Ceana is almost blind, a secret that only a few people but this will not deter her from protecting her clan when a stranger comes to her village.
Even with her near blindness, I enjoyed Ceana as she made a wonderful heroine as she was feisty, strong but not afraid to ask for aid from the handsome Blane when he appears at the castle. Blane can't deny the need to help Ceane out & agrees to stay a few days until her cousin arrives. Moving on from here, we have romance, a kidnapping & a lot of action with the conflict between Scotland & England but most importantly a HEA.
This is lovely novella that can be read in a few hours & I highly recommend it to all historical romance readers.
December 30, 2019
While six thousand Scots follow Robert the Bruce to wage war on the English at Bannockburn, Blane Ross is fighting his own war—single-handedly. After the indiscriminate slaughter of his village at the hands of English mercenaries, he wants revenge. However, when he stops at a castle for information and rest, he doesn’t expect to come across a fierce, beautiful lass in sole charge.
Desperate for help, Ceana rejoices at the arrival of this impressive stranger.
Blane doesn’t have time to aid the attractive lass, no matter how much her haunting blue eyes tug at a heart he thought had turned to stone long ago.
Will Ceana and her family pay the price for his negligence just as his village did? Or can he protect them, even while he finds himself drawn to the stubborn woman and blinded by an attraction deeper than his thirst for English blood?
Though this isn't the type of book I have come to expect from Samantha Holt, it may have been one of her best. This isn't the lighthearted regency but a much more intense book.
After starting this read I simply could not put it down.
I gave this book 4.4 of 5.0 stars for story line and character development. I received a complimentary copy via Booksprout to read. This in no way affected my opinion of this book and all thoughts are my own.
Desperate for help, Ceana rejoices at the arrival of this impressive stranger.
Blane doesn’t have time to aid the attractive lass, no matter how much her haunting blue eyes tug at a heart he thought had turned to stone long ago.
Will Ceana and her family pay the price for his negligence just as his village did? Or can he protect them, even while he finds himself drawn to the stubborn woman and blinded by an attraction deeper than his thirst for English blood?
Though this isn't the type of book I have come to expect from Samantha Holt, it may have been one of her best. This isn't the lighthearted regency but a much more intense book.
After starting this read I simply could not put it down.
I gave this book 4.4 of 5.0 stars for story line and character development. I received a complimentary copy via Booksprout to read. This in no way affected my opinion of this book and all thoughts are my own.
December 31, 2019
ONE EXTREMELY DELIGHTFUL TREAT!!!
Raging! Samantha brought the dynamics, drew out the plan, blazing through the trails, blowing this baby wide open, wielding it together seamlessly. Struggling with the drama, intrigue, vengeance, distress, turmoil, danger and suspense surges as tension spirals thrusting this jewel into a tailspin with stunning results. One jaw dropping, mind blowing, thrilling piece to grace the space and expand the genre. Meting out deliciously, incredible, well rounded scenario's, revving up the anticipation and adrenaline, with such intensity and precision, blazing this bad boy to life spectacularly. Blundering through the trials and tribulations, along with a slew of plot twists and sleek turns, grounding in it's strength and awe inspiring in it's depth. The personalities are well matched and balanced with enough flaws for diversity. The scenes are strikingly sharp with such colorful descriptions it gives you a full understanding and realism that flow smoothly. Awesome job Samantha, thanks for sharing this incredible jewel with us.
Raging! Samantha brought the dynamics, drew out the plan, blazing through the trails, blowing this baby wide open, wielding it together seamlessly. Struggling with the drama, intrigue, vengeance, distress, turmoil, danger and suspense surges as tension spirals thrusting this jewel into a tailspin with stunning results. One jaw dropping, mind blowing, thrilling piece to grace the space and expand the genre. Meting out deliciously, incredible, well rounded scenario's, revving up the anticipation and adrenaline, with such intensity and precision, blazing this bad boy to life spectacularly. Blundering through the trials and tribulations, along with a slew of plot twists and sleek turns, grounding in it's strength and awe inspiring in it's depth. The personalities are well matched and balanced with enough flaws for diversity. The scenes are strikingly sharp with such colorful descriptions it gives you a full understanding and realism that flow smoothly. Awesome job Samantha, thanks for sharing this incredible jewel with us.
December 29, 2019
Blane has a mission, to hunt down the Englishmen that slaughtered his family and make them pay. While tracking them through the woods he comes upon a castle sees and opportunity to get a good nights rest. He doesn’t count on meeting Ceana and her family and feeling the pull to stay.
Ceana, her sister Kate and their mother, are standing guard over her father’s castle while he is out fighting the English. The few men that remained have been lost to fever and the women are struggling to keep the castle running. When Blane arrives, Ceana thinks she sees the light at the end of the tunnel. Which is comical since she is legally blind.
Blane finds himself drawn to helping this settlement in the way he couldn’t help save his own. But are his feelings for Ceana more than just helpful?
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy without expectations, all opinions are my own. This is the first novel I’ve read by the author and I’m comfortable saying I will look for more titles in the future.
The flow of the storyline was great, action kept it moving at a good pace. Not a lot of wasted dialog throughout. Well done for my first experience.
Ceana, her sister Kate and their mother, are standing guard over her father’s castle while he is out fighting the English. The few men that remained have been lost to fever and the women are struggling to keep the castle running. When Blane arrives, Ceana thinks she sees the light at the end of the tunnel. Which is comical since she is legally blind.
Blane finds himself drawn to helping this settlement in the way he couldn’t help save his own. But are his feelings for Ceana more than just helpful?
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy without expectations, all opinions are my own. This is the first novel I’ve read by the author and I’m comfortable saying I will look for more titles in the future.
The flow of the storyline was great, action kept it moving at a good pace. Not a lot of wasted dialog throughout. Well done for my first experience.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 11, 2019
Blane Ross is out for revenge after English mercenaries slaughtered his whole village while he was away. While following them he comes across a castle and village where he asks for a night lodging.
It is here he meets Ceana who has a secret. She asks Blane to stay a few days until her cousin arrives to help defend the village.
I actually read this book a while ago as part of a medieval collection. I have just finished reading it again, and again I enjoyed it.
As usual with Samantha Holt the writing was good. I liked the characters and the way they interacted.
This is a beautiful short steamy medieval romance story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It is here he meets Ceana who has a secret. She asks Blane to stay a few days until her cousin arrives to help defend the village.
I actually read this book a while ago as part of a medieval collection. I have just finished reading it again, and again I enjoyed it.
As usual with Samantha Holt the writing was good. I liked the characters and the way they interacted.
This is a beautiful short steamy medieval romance story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 22, 2019
I really enjoyed this story and I've always loved it when one of the characters has a disability, it proves that love can find you, no matter if you're whole or not.
Even with her disability, Ceana makes quite the heroine and I just loved her character. She's strong but isn't too proud to ask for help when Blane shows up at the keep. He's on a mission of revenge but at the same time, can't resist helping her out. This romantic Highland story takes place during the conflict between Scotland and England so there's a lot of action, adventure, as well as love:) A wonderful novella that can be read in a few hours.
I was given an ARC of this book via Booksprout and am leaving an honest review.
Even with her disability, Ceana makes quite the heroine and I just loved her character. She's strong but isn't too proud to ask for help when Blane shows up at the keep. He's on a mission of revenge but at the same time, can't resist helping her out. This romantic Highland story takes place during the conflict between Scotland and England so there's a lot of action, adventure, as well as love:) A wonderful novella that can be read in a few hours.
I was given an ARC of this book via Booksprout and am leaving an honest review.
January 1, 2020
Even blind, Ceana was strong and smart. I loved her character. Blane is on a mission to get revenge and kill the englishmen responsible for slaughtering his village. After weeks of tracking them, he is tired and finds sanctuary for a night at the home of Ceana. Her father, the laird, and his men are away fighting the English, leaving Ceana in charge of keeping the women and children safe. The renegade Englishmen have been spotted and she needs Blane to stay until her cousin and his men can come to safeguard the keep. But Blane is on a mission of revenge and even though he is attracted to Ceana, will he forgo his mission for several days to keep protect the castle from the English? I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 2, 2020
Blane Ross is on a journey of revenge when he stops at a keep for the night only to discover that it is unprotected from the English soldiers roaming the Scottish Highlands while the men are off fighting against the English with The Bruce. Finding only women and a few old men he is afraid that the same thing that happened to his village will happen to them. Ceana is in charge of the keep until her fathers return.But being a woman and handicapped she is afraid she won't be able to keep them all safe. So she must convince Blane to stay until her kin can arrive. This is a wonderful story and I look forward to more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 11, 2020
When a Highlander loves a woman
Blane has traveled a e fought ever since his village and family was destroyed by Englishmen! Ceana is almost blind but left in charge of the keep! She is fearless and sacrifices much for the safety of her people! Captured by the English by trading places with her sister, almost blind and unable to even see her captors she is taken far from the keep! Blane is determined to go after her! He is fighting with all his might until he believes her gone! His life is not worth living without her! Ceana almost died but the will to live came from knowing Blane couldn't be dead... Her heart would know! If she could just find him blind and wounded can she? Non-stop action it's hard to put down!!!
Blane has traveled a e fought ever since his village and family was destroyed by Englishmen! Ceana is almost blind but left in charge of the keep! She is fearless and sacrifices much for the safety of her people! Captured by the English by trading places with her sister, almost blind and unable to even see her captors she is taken far from the keep! Blane is determined to go after her! He is fighting with all his might until he believes her gone! His life is not worth living without her! Ceana almost died but the will to live came from knowing Blane couldn't be dead... Her heart would know! If she could just find him blind and wounded can she? Non-stop action it's hard to put down!!!
December 30, 2019
This is the third Samantha Holt book, I have read.
Historical romance, intrigue and adventure, make this book really enjoyable.
Blane is intent on revenge. The British destroyed his village.
Blane was on his way to hunt them down, he agrees to help Ceana until her cousin arrives.
Ceana, is blind, whilst the men from the castle are away fighting, its up to Ceana, to run the estate smoothly.
I love books set in the scottish highlands, so this book was already a winner for me.
Well written book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Historical romance, intrigue and adventure, make this book really enjoyable.
Blane is intent on revenge. The British destroyed his village.
Blane was on his way to hunt them down, he agrees to help Ceana until her cousin arrives.
Ceana, is blind, whilst the men from the castle are away fighting, its up to Ceana, to run the estate smoothly.
I love books set in the scottish highlands, so this book was already a winner for me.
Well written book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 31, 2020
Her Highland Defender” by Samantha Holt is a tale of one Blane Ross ...whose motivation is solely based upon revenge. But for the lively blue-eyed lass named Ceana..he encountered at a castle he pauses at ...may very well change his mind. As for Ceana herself...she needs a defender to aid her in defense of her castle from the English invaders ...is this the warrior she needs?!? And IF her castle is safe...will her heart be?!?!? Read and See!! Much enjoyed and Highly Recommended. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Copy of this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 2, 2020
This is the first time in reading this author but has been on my radar for a good long while. What took over to finally give in could not resist the promise of a tale with a Highlander in it. Robert has his hands full but so will they get even fuller with his meeting with Ceana. She too has her hands full with like his will get even fuller once they meet. As this one unfolds so does our heart taking in what blooms from this. This is quite the adventure but also woven with romance you get a escape that satisfies your thirst.
February 1, 2020
Pretty good. Well paced. But a little predictable in places. Considering the time and the setting, I didn't feel the lead female's angst about her "weakness" (a visual impairment) making her an undesirable or incomplete woman was true to the character. She's the clan chief's daughter and she's been left in charge while the men have gone off to war. She's been leading her people and holding everything together, so she's shown amazing strength and courage. Somehow the two don't fit together. Aside from that it was an enjoyable tale and I found it entertaining.
January 3, 2020
i always enjoy Samanthas books and this was no exception. This is not very long but enjoyable nevertheless. It kept me reading to the end. I really liked Blane and Ceana, although she did sometimes act without thinking things through. They fit together quite nicely. The story had romance and adventure along with scattering of humour. It definitely didn't disappoint.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 30, 2020
He was revenge more than anything for the what happened to his village. He enters the raven where he find a line woman running it. She is pleased to see him and she tries to get him to stay longer and protect the village. He wants revenge more than helping her. Will she be able to convince him to stay? Will he leave? See what he will do
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 24, 2021
This book is about Ceana and Blane. Blane wants revenge and he doesn't have time to help anyone else. But when Ceana asks for his help, can he give it when all he wants is revenge. Is Blane able to see that the past doesn't define a person. Will Blane run when he finds out Ceana's secret? Ceana has spunk! Great book with lots of adventure...and of course romance. I received a free copy of this book for my honest review.
December 5, 2019
Novella length stand-alone told in dual POV with HEA. I enjoyed this Scottish Highland romance! With all the men gone to fight the English Ceana is left to keep the village safe from mercenaries. Blane is tracking the English mercenaries that wiped out his village when he meets Ceana. They work together to keep her village safe and fight for one another. Loved the epilogue!
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