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Highland Brides #1
The Protector
The Scottish Highlands meet The Bachelorette in this new historical romance from Allison Butler…
Heiress of clan Gordon, Mairi has been given a gift: the choice of her husband. Her father has found three worthy suitors and each is coming to the Keep. She will spend time with every man and make her decision. But love is not a luxury Mairi allows herself: she is driven by duty, driven by the memory of the failure eleven years earlier that cost her father everything. She will choose a worthy husband, one who will serve the clan wisely, and take nothing for herself – especially not the dark-haired stranger tasked with her protection while she makes her decision.
Lowlander Duff may not know his origins, but he knows how to wield his sword. Granted one year’s leave from his duties to the Elliot Clan, Duff travels to the Highlands in search of his past. Instead he finds an arrogant beauty in need of rescue. Impressing her father, the head of clan Gordon, he is named her temporary protector and must keep her safe as she is courted by three potential husbands. What Duff doesn’t expect is the low hum of jealousy and the rising wave of attraction that makes protecting Mairi easy, but keeping his distance impossible.
Allison Butler kicks off a brand new Scottish Historical series with brave lowland warriors, spirited highland brides, and what exactly goes on underneath those kilts.
Heiress of clan Gordon, Mairi has been given a gift: the choice of her husband. Her father has found three worthy suitors and each is coming to the Keep. She will spend time with every man and make her decision. But love is not a luxury Mairi allows herself: she is driven by duty, driven by the memory of the failure eleven years earlier that cost her father everything. She will choose a worthy husband, one who will serve the clan wisely, and take nothing for herself – especially not the dark-haired stranger tasked with her protection while she makes her decision.
Lowlander Duff may not know his origins, but he knows how to wield his sword. Granted one year’s leave from his duties to the Elliot Clan, Duff travels to the Highlands in search of his past. Instead he finds an arrogant beauty in need of rescue. Impressing her father, the head of clan Gordon, he is named her temporary protector and must keep her safe as she is courted by three potential husbands. What Duff doesn’t expect is the low hum of jealousy and the rising wave of attraction that makes protecting Mairi easy, but keeping his distance impossible.
Allison Butler kicks off a brand new Scottish Historical series with brave lowland warriors, spirited highland brides, and what exactly goes on underneath those kilts.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 8, 2015
119 people are currently reading
140 people want to read
About the author
Allison Butler
6 books86 followersAllison Butler is an author of Scottish historical romance. She spent her early years in country NSW building pretend castles with hay bales and leaping white posts with her army of two older sisters and a younger brother. Many years later, with her mother's influence, she discovered a passion for words and history, read her first historical romance and was inspired to write her own. She writes each morning and cares for the elderly in the afternoon. Her love of travel has given her the gift of many amazing sights but none more heart-stirring than the rugged beauty of Scotland. Allison lives in a small town in NSW, Australia, with her very own Scottish hero and a Jack Russell named Wallace. Their two beautiful daughters have left the nest and have begun their own adventures. Allison loves travelling, dancing like no-one's watching, taking photos and seeing the sights from the back of her husband's motorcycle.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
December 31, 2015
Mairi and Duff find each other due to unfortunate circumstances. He is forced to watch others court her while not divulging his feelings. Mairi is struggling with feelings of her own and not towards her suitors. It's a typical take of the burden of responsibilities and class. Good story.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
June 21, 2024
Kobo+. Favorite Book Cover. Mad About Series Challenge 2024 HRBC. This is the first book in this series of three Highland Medieval Romances. The h is Lady Mairi Gordon daughter of the Laird Allistair Gordon and the H is Duff an orphan but taken in by the clan Elliott on the Borders Lowlands. Mairi is to be wed in a fortnight to one of three men of her father’s choosing. She gets to choose the one herself. Duff was passing through and saw a band of men attacking the Gordon’s and he lent a hand and drove them off. He met Mairi as she was galloping at full speed dangerously and he rode to rescue her. Her father asked Duff to stay on and be her Protector.
The romance develops slowly and finally escalates in the last three chapters. This could called an extremely slow 🔥 burn. The story was well written but unfortunately dragged for 90% of the tale. I gave it three ⭐️ stars.
The romance develops slowly and finally escalates in the last three chapters. This could called an extremely slow 🔥 burn. The story was well written but unfortunately dragged for 90% of the tale. I gave it three ⭐️ stars.
January 1, 2016
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 STARS
Oh the cover… How I immediately fell in love with it. The Protector. Yes!
A few of my favorite lines in the book:
"A daughter with spellbinding blue eyes.."
"Eyes the same hue as a frozen mountain loch that would numb a man to his soul with a single dip."
"She couldn't deny that she liked what she saw and while his attention unsettled her, it awakened her something new. Something exciting… Something forbidden…"
"But it was her eyes that lured him. Even when she was out of sight. Haunted eyes. Devastating blue eyes that seemed to warn him away, yet begged him to stay." (SWOON, right?!)
"Protecting is what I do. Protecting is what I am good at. But who will protect me from myself?"
"He said not a word, yet he consumed her."
"He was like stepping into the sun's light first thing in the morning. You didn't have to view the sun to know it was there. You could feel it." (My favorite!)
In this book you will meet Mairi & Duff. Mairi is set to choose one of three bachelors that her father has picked out for her. As laird, he is growing ill and needs to keep his clan going. Mairi has had a very troubled past. One evening Mairi and part of her clan were ambushed by the enemy. Duff, alone searching for his identity happens to be in the right place at the right time. He is able to save her clan members and take her to safety in his own arms. After returning her to her home, the Laird has come to find that Mairi's protector was gravely injured during the attack. The Laird asks Duff to stay along until her protector has healed. What he doesn't know is that in the next couple of days Mairi is to take a HUSBAND! Both Duff and Mairi slowly fall in love with one another, yet both know that they can't have another… But can they? Mairi is scared to show her true feelings, she is terrified to let her father down. Duff knows she's untouchable, yet his heart is yearning and pulling for Mairi.
As the book progresses you see such an amazing relationship that bonds not only her with Duff, but between the Laird and Duff as well.
Duff as her protector has the duty of going on Mairi's "day dates" with her eligible bachelors. He tries to find the good in each man, but knows that they will never love Mairi as much as he does.
Then came a HUGE twist in the story, a great mystery that you'll want to solve.
Mairi and Duff were characters that I really enjoyed reading about. I felt like I was right there the whole time I read the book and experienced it all. I will definitely be reading more by this author!
If I had to give one suggestion, it would be repetitive sentences.. Its not constant, but throughout the book either he or she is "clenching their fist" "white knuckles"…
Thanks for the amazing opportunity to review your book! Look forward to reading more :)
4.5 STARS
Oh the cover… How I immediately fell in love with it. The Protector. Yes!
A few of my favorite lines in the book:
"A daughter with spellbinding blue eyes.."
"Eyes the same hue as a frozen mountain loch that would numb a man to his soul with a single dip."
"She couldn't deny that she liked what she saw and while his attention unsettled her, it awakened her something new. Something exciting… Something forbidden…"
"But it was her eyes that lured him. Even when she was out of sight. Haunted eyes. Devastating blue eyes that seemed to warn him away, yet begged him to stay." (SWOON, right?!)
"Protecting is what I do. Protecting is what I am good at. But who will protect me from myself?"
"He said not a word, yet he consumed her."
"He was like stepping into the sun's light first thing in the morning. You didn't have to view the sun to know it was there. You could feel it." (My favorite!)
In this book you will meet Mairi & Duff. Mairi is set to choose one of three bachelors that her father has picked out for her. As laird, he is growing ill and needs to keep his clan going. Mairi has had a very troubled past. One evening Mairi and part of her clan were ambushed by the enemy. Duff, alone searching for his identity happens to be in the right place at the right time. He is able to save her clan members and take her to safety in his own arms. After returning her to her home, the Laird has come to find that Mairi's protector was gravely injured during the attack. The Laird asks Duff to stay along until her protector has healed. What he doesn't know is that in the next couple of days Mairi is to take a HUSBAND! Both Duff and Mairi slowly fall in love with one another, yet both know that they can't have another… But can they? Mairi is scared to show her true feelings, she is terrified to let her father down. Duff knows she's untouchable, yet his heart is yearning and pulling for Mairi.
As the book progresses you see such an amazing relationship that bonds not only her with Duff, but between the Laird and Duff as well.
Duff as her protector has the duty of going on Mairi's "day dates" with her eligible bachelors. He tries to find the good in each man, but knows that they will never love Mairi as much as he does.
Then came a HUGE twist in the story, a great mystery that you'll want to solve.
Mairi and Duff were characters that I really enjoyed reading about. I felt like I was right there the whole time I read the book and experienced it all. I will definitely be reading more by this author!
If I had to give one suggestion, it would be repetitive sentences.. Its not constant, but throughout the book either he or she is "clenching their fist" "white knuckles"…
Thanks for the amazing opportunity to review your book! Look forward to reading more :)
January 3, 2016
This book was really bad. I can't believe I read the whole thing.
January 4, 2016
The Protector is a new Highlander series by Allison Butler and this is the first book The Protector. I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The main characters in this book is Mairi. an heiress of Clan Gordon, and her Father, the Laird, and a Lowlander named Duff, who comes upon Mairi when she is in trouble, and her father who gets there just in time to see how impressive a man Duff is. Duff himself is a lowlander that came upon them while out looking for clues to his real identity, he had been given a year off from the clan Elliot which he was a part of.
Duff wins the Laird's thanks and approval in the way he protected his daughter, and asks him to see his daughter home while he helps the injured clan members being brought home.
Mairi from the beginning of seeing Duff, is snippy to him, and does not want him around her. despite what her father thinks. Mairi keeps thinking what happened over 10 years ago when a tragedy happens and she has no time for happiness or love she thinks, just wanting her Father's approval at how good she is at running things for him. They are all each other has and Mairi has always worked at being a help to the Laird, as she thinks if she is, he will love her more.
The Laird asks Duff to stay the night after what he has done for them, and they have several conversations, and an exhibition of how to fight: the Laird is fascinated with Duff. Without Mairi's knowledge, her father appoints Duff as her protector while her regular protector heals from the battle. It is necessary, the Laird tells Duff, as three men will be visiting the castle for a week to court Mairi, so she can get to know them better so she can choose which one she will wed.
From the beginning Mairi is rude and has no time for Duff. she acts so submissive towards her father, never questioning his decisions, and so boldly towards Duff, who did nothing but save her life. Duff on the other hand is enamored of her from the beginning. He is also a very honorable man, he was asked the three things that mattered most to him and he said his horse, his sword and his honor. He clearly displays this time and again in the book!
The plot moves at a steady pace and there is a lot of mental and sexual angst in the book and it also is hair-raising in places. It is questionable what will happen between Duff and Mairi, until the last fourth of the book. On top of all this, Mairi watches her father declining before her eyes and is scared she will lose what little family she has left.
While Duff is looking out for Mairi he has to be strong enough to keep his opinions to himself, but he gets so jealous! Mairi on the other hand realizes the man she wants to spend her life with is not included in the ones her father has selected.
I love how the book ends, and I know you will too as well! In the last part of the book some things happen that have me holding my breath and other things leave me emotionally a wreck. When I was through reading the book, I just wish there was more! I look forward to the next book in this series!
I gave this book 4**** historical stars!
The main characters in this book is Mairi. an heiress of Clan Gordon, and her Father, the Laird, and a Lowlander named Duff, who comes upon Mairi when she is in trouble, and her father who gets there just in time to see how impressive a man Duff is. Duff himself is a lowlander that came upon them while out looking for clues to his real identity, he had been given a year off from the clan Elliot which he was a part of.
Duff wins the Laird's thanks and approval in the way he protected his daughter, and asks him to see his daughter home while he helps the injured clan members being brought home.
Mairi from the beginning of seeing Duff, is snippy to him, and does not want him around her. despite what her father thinks. Mairi keeps thinking what happened over 10 years ago when a tragedy happens and she has no time for happiness or love she thinks, just wanting her Father's approval at how good she is at running things for him. They are all each other has and Mairi has always worked at being a help to the Laird, as she thinks if she is, he will love her more.
The Laird asks Duff to stay the night after what he has done for them, and they have several conversations, and an exhibition of how to fight: the Laird is fascinated with Duff. Without Mairi's knowledge, her father appoints Duff as her protector while her regular protector heals from the battle. It is necessary, the Laird tells Duff, as three men will be visiting the castle for a week to court Mairi, so she can get to know them better so she can choose which one she will wed.
From the beginning Mairi is rude and has no time for Duff. she acts so submissive towards her father, never questioning his decisions, and so boldly towards Duff, who did nothing but save her life. Duff on the other hand is enamored of her from the beginning. He is also a very honorable man, he was asked the three things that mattered most to him and he said his horse, his sword and his honor. He clearly displays this time and again in the book!
The plot moves at a steady pace and there is a lot of mental and sexual angst in the book and it also is hair-raising in places. It is questionable what will happen between Duff and Mairi, until the last fourth of the book. On top of all this, Mairi watches her father declining before her eyes and is scared she will lose what little family she has left.
While Duff is looking out for Mairi he has to be strong enough to keep his opinions to himself, but he gets so jealous! Mairi on the other hand realizes the man she wants to spend her life with is not included in the ones her father has selected.
I love how the book ends, and I know you will too as well! In the last part of the book some things happen that have me holding my breath and other things leave me emotionally a wreck. When I was through reading the book, I just wish there was more! I look forward to the next book in this series!
I gave this book 4**** historical stars!
January 3, 2016
All my reviews are available on my blog (along with giveaways, excerpts, chapters, features, cover reveals and more). http://chaptersandexcerpts.blogspot.com/
This book was provided to me at no charge from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions are 100% my own and 100% my own.
What I liked: Nothing really jumped out to me in this book as “wonderful – I LOVE it.”
What I didn’t like: 1) Mairi was too submissive with her father and far too stubborn with Duff.
2) Most of the book talks about something terrible that happened that Mairi feels was all her fault, but we don’t find out what that was until almost the end.
What bugged me: 1) A bit too much “runaround” with the feelings the main characters have for one another.
2) Starting around the middle of the book and continuing to the end, I had a feeling that I’ve read a very similar storyline somewhere before.
Review: The storyline was ok. It wasn’t super-fast paced or anything, but it did move enough to have me read the entire book in one sitting. The main drama focused around a beginning of the book attack, the mental wanting of each other of the main characters, and a couple of problems in the end. So, not an entirely action packed book with anything major to try to figure out.
I did, however, like Duff’s character. He was strong and had a sense of honor (well, until almost the end lol – but you’ll have to read it to find out for yourself). You don’t learn a whole lot about him, but I think that’s what makes him all the more interesting.
Have I read the beginning books in the series?: This is the first book in the series.
Will I read more in the series?: Yes – I’d love to see the author grow and watch her work improve.
This book was provided to me at no charge from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions are 100% my own and 100% my own.
What I liked: Nothing really jumped out to me in this book as “wonderful – I LOVE it.”
What I didn’t like: 1) Mairi was too submissive with her father and far too stubborn with Duff.
2) Most of the book talks about something terrible that happened that Mairi feels was all her fault, but we don’t find out what that was until almost the end.
What bugged me: 1) A bit too much “runaround” with the feelings the main characters have for one another.
2) Starting around the middle of the book and continuing to the end, I had a feeling that I’ve read a very similar storyline somewhere before.
Review: The storyline was ok. It wasn’t super-fast paced or anything, but it did move enough to have me read the entire book in one sitting. The main drama focused around a beginning of the book attack, the mental wanting of each other of the main characters, and a couple of problems in the end. So, not an entirely action packed book with anything major to try to figure out.
I did, however, like Duff’s character. He was strong and had a sense of honor (well, until almost the end lol – but you’ll have to read it to find out for yourself). You don’t learn a whole lot about him, but I think that’s what makes him all the more interesting.
Have I read the beginning books in the series?: This is the first book in the series.
Will I read more in the series?: Yes – I’d love to see the author grow and watch her work improve.
January 5, 2016
an enjoyable highland romance
Mairi's struggle is what strikes me. She struggles to make amends, to holds at bay her emotional burdens. She struggles to be the pleasing daughter who will obey her father. She holds herself together--too tightly.
The one who sees this about her is a lowlander, Duffy who has taken a year off from the Elliot clan trying to discover his true name and heritage. The silences about this are more telling than explanations. He is one of three from that clan who is on a quest. They were all to meet up at a certain time.
Duff saves Laird Alistair Gordon from ambush and the laird's daughter Mairi from a spooked horse. Mairi it seems has been given the chance by her father to choose her own husband--from three likely candidates. An unusual occurrence. Most daughters are married off for political reasons with no choice. Laird Gordon asks Duff to stay on to be Marie's protector. She is spending a day with each potential groomsman to aid in her choosing. There must be no hint of scandal. Duff decides he can afford three days before meeting up with his comrades.
The choosing is made the harder for Mairi. She finds herself thinking more and more about Duff. She is drawn to him. But she knows her duty, a duty heavily fuelled by guilt. A guilt that stops her from enjoying life.
Duff is finding it harder to hold himself apart. Honour demands he stay until Marie has set her course. And perhaps Duff will find a new heritage.
A NetGalley ARC
Mairi's struggle is what strikes me. She struggles to make amends, to holds at bay her emotional burdens. She struggles to be the pleasing daughter who will obey her father. She holds herself together--too tightly.
The one who sees this about her is a lowlander, Duffy who has taken a year off from the Elliot clan trying to discover his true name and heritage. The silences about this are more telling than explanations. He is one of three from that clan who is on a quest. They were all to meet up at a certain time.
Duff saves Laird Alistair Gordon from ambush and the laird's daughter Mairi from a spooked horse. Mairi it seems has been given the chance by her father to choose her own husband--from three likely candidates. An unusual occurrence. Most daughters are married off for political reasons with no choice. Laird Gordon asks Duff to stay on to be Marie's protector. She is spending a day with each potential groomsman to aid in her choosing. There must be no hint of scandal. Duff decides he can afford three days before meeting up with his comrades.
The choosing is made the harder for Mairi. She finds herself thinking more and more about Duff. She is drawn to him. But she knows her duty, a duty heavily fuelled by guilt. A guilt that stops her from enjoying life.
Duff is finding it harder to hold himself apart. Honour demands he stay until Marie has set her course. And perhaps Duff will find a new heritage.
A NetGalley ARC
January 25, 2016
Mairi has to choose one of three men her sick father, the Laird has picked for her in order to maintain the Clan. . Happenstance brings Duff smack in the middle of an attack on the clan and is able to save her and her clan, and of course wisks her to safety in his very strong and muscled arms. During the attack Mairi's guard was severely injured and the Laird asks Duff to take his place temporarily... But he is not aware that Mairi is to take a husband within days. Duff and Mairi fall hard. Mairi is scared to show her true feelings and disappoint her father. Duff knows she's untouchable but aches for her.. Great Character development and a twist to boot!
September 1, 2020
Touching and passionate
I really loved the book! It made me feel so in love! It is an engaging love story about knowing your true self and trusting your heart.
A good lesson learnt here is about communication and sincerity in all our relationships.
You are worthy, despite of what the world make you feel about it. You are worthy of love and of happiness.
I really loved the book! It made me feel so in love! It is an engaging love story about knowing your true self and trusting your heart.
A good lesson learnt here is about communication and sincerity in all our relationships.
You are worthy, despite of what the world make you feel about it. You are worthy of love and of happiness.
September 8, 2021
2.5 stars.
This was fine, but the story was really let down by the writing. It needed a really good edit. There was so much repetition of the the hero and heroines inner thoughts. We get it! Honour. Duty. He doesn't know his family. She feels the guilt of the death of hers. This annoyed me pretty quickly and it is throughout the entire story. Ignoring that, the main characters were good, but yeah, pretty one note.
Like with the other book I've read by Butler, I mostly read this for the time period and setting.
This was fine, but the story was really let down by the writing. It needed a really good edit. There was so much repetition of the the hero and heroines inner thoughts. We get it! Honour. Duty. He doesn't know his family. She feels the guilt of the death of hers. This annoyed me pretty quickly and it is throughout the entire story. Ignoring that, the main characters were good, but yeah, pretty one note.
Like with the other book I've read by Butler, I mostly read this for the time period and setting.
April 20, 2023
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars
This was a nice read. I know 3 stars has become associated with it not being liked. But 3 stars on GoodReads means "I like it" (Hover over the stars...it even says it). I use 3 stars as a rating, when I like something but it wasn't memorable or likely to be re-read or it didn't make me want to slow down my reading or go fan girl over. There is nothing wrong with it, it just didn't take me personally to the next level.
I think the issue is more me at the moment as I look for the book to get me out of a slump and the pacing of this was a little slow to work for me. I like the setting (Scotland). I liked the time period (1400s). I liked the writing and main characters (especially the father). I struggled with the lead male being called Duff as I am a massive Simpsons fan so when I hear Duff my brain automatically goes to "Duff Man" so it was a little hard to take him seriously when my brain just kept picturing Duff man gyrating around when I read his name (I am not normal...).
A nice read. I will pick up book 2 as some stage as I bought the first 2 books in a Kindle Sale and it is always good to come across another talented Aussie Author that I can follow her writings.
Reading Challenge
Aussie Readers 2023 Aussie Author "Opposites Attract" challenge: Read a current book and a historical book
Aussie Readers 2023 Colour Challenge: "Purple" - Read a book with a title starting with P (ignoring the)
Aussie Readers 2023 Calendar of Books Challenge: "April" - Read a book by an author with an initial starting with A (Allison)
Aussie Readers 2023 Autumn "Read your friends Challenge": Read books with authors that initials spell out a Goodreads friend (Butler: B = Bennett)
Aussie Readers 2023 Annual A-Z "Follow the Clues" Challenge: "H" Read a Historical book
This was a nice read. I know 3 stars has become associated with it not being liked. But 3 stars on GoodReads means "I like it" (Hover over the stars...it even says it). I use 3 stars as a rating, when I like something but it wasn't memorable or likely to be re-read or it didn't make me want to slow down my reading or go fan girl over. There is nothing wrong with it, it just didn't take me personally to the next level.
I think the issue is more me at the moment as I look for the book to get me out of a slump and the pacing of this was a little slow to work for me. I like the setting (Scotland). I liked the time period (1400s). I liked the writing and main characters (especially the father). I struggled with the lead male being called Duff as I am a massive Simpsons fan so when I hear Duff my brain automatically goes to "Duff Man" so it was a little hard to take him seriously when my brain just kept picturing Duff man gyrating around when I read his name (I am not normal...).
A nice read. I will pick up book 2 as some stage as I bought the first 2 books in a Kindle Sale and it is always good to come across another talented Aussie Author that I can follow her writings.
Reading Challenge
Aussie Readers 2023 Aussie Author "Opposites Attract" challenge: Read a current book and a historical book
Aussie Readers 2023 Colour Challenge: "Purple" - Read a book with a title starting with P (ignoring the)
Aussie Readers 2023 Calendar of Books Challenge: "April" - Read a book by an author with an initial starting with A (Allison)
Aussie Readers 2023 Autumn "Read your friends Challenge": Read books with authors that initials spell out a Goodreads friend (Butler: B = Bennett)
Aussie Readers 2023 Annual A-Z "Follow the Clues" Challenge: "H" Read a Historical book
July 23, 2018
The Protector
Here is another wonderful story by Allison Butler. It's about thinking that a name makes you but it's your character and beliefs that makes who you are. It's also about believing with the way people think about you because you think they should. Allison is a wonderful storyteller. She makes me believe that I am there watching everything that is happening. I hope you enjoy reading this story as much as I did.
Here is another wonderful story by Allison Butler. It's about thinking that a name makes you but it's your character and beliefs that makes who you are. It's also about believing with the way people think about you because you think they should. Allison is a wonderful storyteller. She makes me believe that I am there watching everything that is happening. I hope you enjoy reading this story as much as I did.
February 26, 2018
much more of a story than other romance novels but why didn't the father ever talk to his daughter? the whole "I wanted you to become independent and stand up for yourself" is bullshit, especially because it didn't work. they spent 11 years blaming themselves for the same mistake when a quick conversation would have saved them both 11 years of guilt 😬
Read
April 15, 2020DNF.
IT'S CHAPTER 6, AND THE MCs STILL HAVEN'T HAD ANY NOTABLE INTERACTION. THEY KEEP RUNNING AROUND THEIR FEELINGS, AND IT'S BEING DRAGGED FOR 5 CHAPTERS. OMG! WHERE IS THE CHEMISTRY BUILDING?! SHOULDN'T WE BE GETTING SOMEWHERE NOW?
IT WASN'T EVEN A SLOW BURN. MORE LIKE THE HEROINE'S IN BIG DENIAL AND SHE'S SO SHREWISH TO THE HERO.
HERO WAS THE ONLY GOOD SPORT IN THIS BOOK.
IT'S CHAPTER 6, AND THE MCs STILL HAVEN'T HAD ANY NOTABLE INTERACTION. THEY KEEP RUNNING AROUND THEIR FEELINGS, AND IT'S BEING DRAGGED FOR 5 CHAPTERS. OMG! WHERE IS THE CHEMISTRY BUILDING?! SHOULDN'T WE BE GETTING SOMEWHERE NOW?
IT WASN'T EVEN A SLOW BURN. MORE LIKE THE HEROINE'S IN BIG DENIAL AND SHE'S SO SHREWISH TO THE HERO.
HERO WAS THE ONLY GOOD SPORT IN THIS BOOK.
June 28, 2021
4 stars. This was just the kind of highlands book I haven’t read in a while but wanted to. Strong hero. Strong, capable heroine. A tad bit of danger. Glad I found this author.
This book has an especially interesting plot, reminding one of a dating show. The heroine’s father picked three suitors whom she had one week to get to know before choosing one as her husband.
This book has an especially interesting plot, reminding one of a dating show. The heroine’s father picked three suitors whom she had one week to get to know before choosing one as her husband.
January 28, 2019
Mairi needs to make a choice out of three potential husbands, at a time she is falling for Duff. It's a good conflict at a time when women didn't have a choice.
I like that the history is correct and that women of worth had arranged marriages. A lovely read.
I like that the history is correct and that women of worth had arranged marriages. A lovely read.
March 13, 2019
oh wow what a read, Duff protector swoon................... great story had me hooked !!!
October 8, 2016
A Time Gone By
Reading this Historical saga takes a person back in time when Women were considered a prize to win, yet every person even down to the Stable lad was considered family and taken care of. I really enjoyed the time I have spent reading this book.
Reading this Historical saga takes a person back in time when Women were considered a prize to win, yet every person even down to the Stable lad was considered family and taken care of. I really enjoyed the time I have spent reading this book.
December 30, 2015
This is the first book I have ready by Allison Butler, but she has been on my list of authors I want to try for a while now. I did enjoy the book, I liked the story, and I liked Duff the hero, but it really took time to warm up to the heroine, Mairi.
Duff is from the Border area of Scotland and he is returning home after spending a year in the Highlands looking for his family. He must be illegitimate and not know who his father is, but the story doesn’t cover any of his background and why he doesn’t know this information. I would have liked to know, did his mother refuse to tell him, or did he never have anyone at all? On his way home, he sees a small party about to be attacked and he decides to help the people and make it more of a fair fight. This was the first time he rescues Mairi.
Mairi was a hard character to get to know and I wanted more of her back story and wanted to know more about her feelings. For years she has blamed herself for her mother and brother’s deaths, but this is all alluded to until the end of the book, and she has decided that doing her duty by her father is the only thing that matters. Her father has chosen three men he believes will be a good husband to her and will be able to run the clan as laird when he is gone. Her father is giving her the choice out of the three who will be her husband, but he asks Duff to be her personal guard while she is getting to know these men.
For me, it took too long for these characters to get together and too long to actually see Mairi as a real person. It was understandable for her to be closed off to other characters, but as the reader I wanted to know what was in her mind. I liked Mairi and Duff’s story and I could feel them falling in love and understood why they fell in love and this wasn’t instant lust and not true love. For me, the love scene could have been more passionate and there is a villain or two that was a surprise so I enjoyed that portion as well. I will read more books by Allison Butler, I did enjoy her writing style and this book kept my interest. Rounding up to four stars, but this would be a solid 3.5 for me.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Duff is from the Border area of Scotland and he is returning home after spending a year in the Highlands looking for his family. He must be illegitimate and not know who his father is, but the story doesn’t cover any of his background and why he doesn’t know this information. I would have liked to know, did his mother refuse to tell him, or did he never have anyone at all? On his way home, he sees a small party about to be attacked and he decides to help the people and make it more of a fair fight. This was the first time he rescues Mairi.
Mairi was a hard character to get to know and I wanted more of her back story and wanted to know more about her feelings. For years she has blamed herself for her mother and brother’s deaths, but this is all alluded to until the end of the book, and she has decided that doing her duty by her father is the only thing that matters. Her father has chosen three men he believes will be a good husband to her and will be able to run the clan as laird when he is gone. Her father is giving her the choice out of the three who will be her husband, but he asks Duff to be her personal guard while she is getting to know these men.
For me, it took too long for these characters to get together and too long to actually see Mairi as a real person. It was understandable for her to be closed off to other characters, but as the reader I wanted to know what was in her mind. I liked Mairi and Duff’s story and I could feel them falling in love and understood why they fell in love and this wasn’t instant lust and not true love. For me, the love scene could have been more passionate and there is a villain or two that was a surprise so I enjoyed that portion as well. I will read more books by Allison Butler, I did enjoy her writing style and this book kept my interest. Rounding up to four stars, but this would be a solid 3.5 for me.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
January 4, 2016
When Duff saves Mairi from an attack, her father honors Duff by making him her personal guard for a week. During this week, Mairi is expected to choose a husband between the three suitors her father has picked. Its lust at first sight between Mairi and Duff, however, they both know duty must come first, and try their best to tame their feelings for one another. As the week comes to an end, and Mairi must make her choice for a husband, she is torn between honoring her father and clan, and love.
I found this to be a good and very light read. I had a hard time putting the book down as I wanted to see what would happen between Duff and Mairi. Throughout the majority of the book, the relationship between Mairi and all other characters is distant and cordial. There are very few conversations in this book. We could likely count on one or two hands the number of conversations between Mairi and Duff; and those conversations are typically once sentence followed by a one sentence reply. I really wish there were more conversations between them, or anyone else for that matter. It prevents the reader from forming any deep attachment to the characters, or really even believing in their love for one another. Instead, the vast majority of the book is centered on Mairi’s ever present guilt from an unknown family accident (which we finally learn about around 80% in), and how much she does – but shouldn’t – want Duff. It’s all inner turmoil here, and not much else, unless you count the title of Personal Guard being used 123 times. If the author had cut out the redundant pages of emotional struggle and added more backstory to the main characters, and well as more in-depth interactions between the characters, this book would easily be worthy of 5 stars.
With all that aside, the book is easy to read and follow. I did enjoy the story; it was a refreshing change from the typical, overdone plots from other books in this genre. Reading about a jealous hero who must watch his love interest be courted by 3 suitors does make an amusing read. Especially when said hero has no family, surname, or even a home of his own.
My thanks to NetGalley and Escape Publishing for the pleasure of reading and reviewing The Protector by Allison Butler.
I found this to be a good and very light read. I had a hard time putting the book down as I wanted to see what would happen between Duff and Mairi. Throughout the majority of the book, the relationship between Mairi and all other characters is distant and cordial. There are very few conversations in this book. We could likely count on one or two hands the number of conversations between Mairi and Duff; and those conversations are typically once sentence followed by a one sentence reply. I really wish there were more conversations between them, or anyone else for that matter. It prevents the reader from forming any deep attachment to the characters, or really even believing in their love for one another. Instead, the vast majority of the book is centered on Mairi’s ever present guilt from an unknown family accident (which we finally learn about around 80% in), and how much she does – but shouldn’t – want Duff. It’s all inner turmoil here, and not much else, unless you count the title of Personal Guard being used 123 times. If the author had cut out the redundant pages of emotional struggle and added more backstory to the main characters, and well as more in-depth interactions between the characters, this book would easily be worthy of 5 stars.
With all that aside, the book is easy to read and follow. I did enjoy the story; it was a refreshing change from the typical, overdone plots from other books in this genre. Reading about a jealous hero who must watch his love interest be courted by 3 suitors does make an amusing read. Especially when said hero has no family, surname, or even a home of his own.
My thanks to NetGalley and Escape Publishing for the pleasure of reading and reviewing The Protector by Allison Butler.
December 13, 2015
The opening blurb referring to the Bachelorette almost made me not read this book. But, I hadn't read a Scottish historical in so long and I really, really wanted one. Unfortunately, this was not a good selection for me.
The plot is sparse and it could have been finished in half the time or even a third with less recanting of the same thoughts. The story is primarily told via internal dialogue,which is repetitive and some of it silly. Both on Duff's and Mairi's part. It's the same four lines reiterated every few paragraphs. There is so much musing that there's little action.
Mairi comes off more like a shrew than a bachelorette. She's childish and waspish in a way that belies her position as laird's daughter and acting chatelaine. I prefer my Scottish heroines with a bit more backbone, that's why I read highlander novels. But, Mairi is whimpering masquerading as stalwart, and disappointed me.
Both Mairi and Duff are carrying baggage, heavy baggage. We hear about it incessantly, as two of the four refrains, and yet, neither really has the right to it. I don't want to spoil it, but the guilt they strapped to their backs is unwarranted and by the end seemed borderline ridiculous.
There's a grand conflict at the end which comes out of no where and failed to save the book for me. Along with Duff and Mari's decision near the end that came out of left field, the capitulation was unconvincing on both characters' parts.
1.5-2 Stars
Overall, repetitive woe is me-ing.
~Copy provided by Netgalley~
The plot is sparse and it could have been finished in half the time or even a third with less recanting of the same thoughts. The story is primarily told via internal dialogue,which is repetitive and some of it silly. Both on Duff's and Mairi's part. It's the same four lines reiterated every few paragraphs. There is so much musing that there's little action.
Mairi comes off more like a shrew than a bachelorette. She's childish and waspish in a way that belies her position as laird's daughter and acting chatelaine. I prefer my Scottish heroines with a bit more backbone, that's why I read highlander novels. But, Mairi is whimpering masquerading as stalwart, and disappointed me.
Both Mairi and Duff are carrying baggage, heavy baggage. We hear about it incessantly, as two of the four refrains, and yet, neither really has the right to it. I don't want to spoil it, but the guilt they strapped to their backs is unwarranted and by the end seemed borderline ridiculous.
There's a grand conflict at the end which comes out of no where and failed to save the book for me. Along with Duff and Mari's decision near the end that came out of left field, the capitulation was unconvincing on both characters' parts.
1.5-2 Stars
Overall, repetitive woe is me-ing.
~Copy provided by Netgalley~
July 12, 2016
Duff is twenty six and was on his horse Duncan. He had to give up all hope of finding out who he was. It was very hard on him as he never failed. He was still an orphan with no family name. Duff saw six men who were ready to jump four strangers even though he should stay out of it he decided to even up the odds. One of the travelers was Laird Allister Gordan. Then another person is close her hood falls off and it is a woman her father is the Laird and she recognizes him. Duff doesn’t know any of this but he does help her also. Mairi the woman had came to welcome her father home. Laird Gordon lets Mairi know they are indebted to Duff results may have been different if he hadn’t helped. Mairi’s guard had been badly hurt and the Laird asked Duff to protect Maira for a week til her guard was better. Laird Gordon is the leader of their clan and has three suitors and Mairi would have to chose one. She has to carry on for the clan. Mairi and Duff fall in love yet he has to be there while she dates other men during the day. So it is hard for him to see Mairi with another man.
I didn’t love this but I also didn’t hate it, The story just didn’t WOW me . The story dragged a little for me. I also don’t believe you fall in love in a week. Mairi was so stubborn with Duff yet very submissive to her dad and this is really important it is the rest of her but also Duffs life. I loved the way Duff was willing to help strangers. With no thought of any kind of gain just to help. I did like the ins and outs of the story.
I received an ARC of this story for an honest review.
I didn’t love this but I also didn’t hate it, The story just didn’t WOW me . The story dragged a little for me. I also don’t believe you fall in love in a week. Mairi was so stubborn with Duff yet very submissive to her dad and this is really important it is the rest of her but also Duffs life. I loved the way Duff was willing to help strangers. With no thought of any kind of gain just to help. I did like the ins and outs of the story.
I received an ARC of this story for an honest review.
December 22, 2015
For avid Scottish historical romance readers who prefer an instant attraction with fleeting glances of longing, discreet innocent touches, and a “want what you can’t have” theme opposed to overly graphic steamy scenes, you will likely love The Protector by Allison Butler. This author proves you don’t need a lot of dirty talk to speak the language of love. Honestly, my fellow romance book-loving friends, I think this couple didn’t even share their first kiss until 80% into it. However, it didn’t seem to matter because you felt their chemistry and invisible magnetic pull towards one another pretty much all the time, as Duff was Mairi’s 24/7 bodyguard.
Things got off to a great start, that’s for certain. Our handsome, dashing hero rushed in and saved the beautiful heroine, instantly earning the trust and respect of her Laird father. Duff fought off six attackers but that seemed easy compared to his increasing desire to thwart marriage proposals of three suitors brought in to woo the hand of Lady Mairi.
With an interesting cast of supporting characters and some surprising plot twists near the end, I think you will likely enjoy this one verra, verra much.
Title: The Protector, Series: Highland Brides (Book 1), Author: Allison Butler, Pages: 247, stand-alone, HEA, only one very steamy scene, no cheating.
(This review is based on NetGalley ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion.)
Things got off to a great start, that’s for certain. Our handsome, dashing hero rushed in and saved the beautiful heroine, instantly earning the trust and respect of her Laird father. Duff fought off six attackers but that seemed easy compared to his increasing desire to thwart marriage proposals of three suitors brought in to woo the hand of Lady Mairi.
With an interesting cast of supporting characters and some surprising plot twists near the end, I think you will likely enjoy this one verra, verra much.
Title: The Protector, Series: Highland Brides (Book 1), Author: Allison Butler, Pages: 247, stand-alone, HEA, only one very steamy scene, no cheating.
(This review is based on NetGalley ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion.)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 1, 2016
I received an arc through NetGalley
The Scottish Highlands meet The Bachelorette in this new historical romance from Allison Butler…
I didn't see it as that. Yes Duff is a natural protector. His instincts and the way he can read people quick come in handy. However he wasn't really competing for Mairi's affection. Not out in public. He had issues with her barking out commands, and her not doing what she was told. When it came to her father she melted. She would do anything and everything for him.
There were some parts that were slow for me. Other parts picked up. When Mairi went out on her daily outing with each guest. Duff was there. He could read her so well, he knew she was happy, sad or even scared. He was right by her side when she needed saving.
Mairi being a strong willed, strong headed female. The lady of the house. She had duties to fulfill. She was to pick her husband out of the three guests her father chose. Little did she know the one she didn't want was actually THE ONE!!
Their relationship was professional. They both fought their feelings for one another. In the end it would be their feelings that would save them both.
The Scottish Highlands meet The Bachelorette in this new historical romance from Allison Butler…
I didn't see it as that. Yes Duff is a natural protector. His instincts and the way he can read people quick come in handy. However he wasn't really competing for Mairi's affection. Not out in public. He had issues with her barking out commands, and her not doing what she was told. When it came to her father she melted. She would do anything and everything for him.
There were some parts that were slow for me. Other parts picked up. When Mairi went out on her daily outing with each guest. Duff was there. He could read her so well, he knew she was happy, sad or even scared. He was right by her side when she needed saving.
Mairi being a strong willed, strong headed female. The lady of the house. She had duties to fulfill. She was to pick her husband out of the three guests her father chose. Little did she know the one she didn't want was actually THE ONE!!
Their relationship was professional. They both fought their feelings for one another. In the end it would be their feelings that would save them both.
January 25, 2016
I was given this book as an advanced reader copy (ARC) for an honest review. Thank you Net Galley & Escape Publishing - great read.
I love historical romance novels, so I was hooked from premise. I also love Scotland so that helps as well. I was hooked from the beginning, you go straight into the action and it just continued from there on. Yes the story has been done over and over again, but it worked for me. I don't on the other hand like the Bachelorette. Yes I understand that most people do, but it is not me. If that was what you are hoping for you are out of luck. If your not looking for some retelling of a cheesy TV show then this is the book for you.
Mairi and Duffs relationship is the biggest part of the story. Yes they go back and forth, that's what makes this book fun. No its not going to win any grand writing prize anytime soon. But if you are looking for a good read to snuggle and read on the couch this book is for you.
This is the first part book in the Highland Brides Series. Looking forward to book 2.
I love historical romance novels, so I was hooked from premise. I also love Scotland so that helps as well. I was hooked from the beginning, you go straight into the action and it just continued from there on. Yes the story has been done over and over again, but it worked for me. I don't on the other hand like the Bachelorette. Yes I understand that most people do, but it is not me. If that was what you are hoping for you are out of luck. If your not looking for some retelling of a cheesy TV show then this is the book for you.
Mairi and Duffs relationship is the biggest part of the story. Yes they go back and forth, that's what makes this book fun. No its not going to win any grand writing prize anytime soon. But if you are looking for a good read to snuggle and read on the couch this book is for you.
This is the first part book in the Highland Brides Series. Looking forward to book 2.
December 30, 2015
At the very beginning of The Protector I though I was really going to dislike Duff. He was overbearing and disrespectful of a woman's wishes, and arrogant about it. Not a very likable quality to start a book with. But that was the beginning and we quickly overcome that and find he is capable of putting his arrogance aside and be the dutiful warrior he is supposed to be. Mairi is really a shell of her former self. Biddable and yet wanting to be the woman she is supposed to be. Eleven years of suppressed wants and needs are finally coming to a head and it is about time! The way Duff's personality changes into protector and nurturer is truly heartwarming. Mairi is such a fledgling to allowing herself to feel and Duff is very much aware of this. I loved him with her. I loved her awakening, it brought tears to my eyes. Great story and great feel.
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC for my honest review.
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC for my honest review.
February 13, 2016
This starts a new series "Highland Brides Book" by Allison Butler. I have read a few other book by Ms. Butler and have loved them..this book is now added to that list. I am excited to start this new series and can't wait for the next book! Our hero, Duff who is a lowlander has head for the Highlander area to track down his origins as they are a mystery to him and others. Once there he find himself in charge of protecting Mairi, Heiress of clan Gordon. Mairi has been set to choose a husband and her father has narrowed it down to three men. While Mairi is looking at the possible new husband, Duff is to protect her. But Duff never thought he would become jealous of the men that are fighting for her hand. This starts their story of what the overcame to be together. I enjoyed this book and hope that you will too!
January 7, 2016
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
So I had a tough time with this one. I really had to push myself to continue through to the end. It was an okay read; honestly, it was much of the usual or same ol’, same ol’ to me. The idea behind the story was interesting and that was what originally caught my eye but the actual delivery - eh, not so much. I didn’t feel any sort of connection to the characters. I just didn’t care and I’ve never really had that happen before. I just wanted it to be over. There was also a whole lot of dragging on happening throughout the story - this takes away from the story as well as the characters’ build up. Cutting out much of the lag and repetitiveness would reduce the story in size and might help with connectivity between the readers and the characters, and could make for a more neat and concise read.
So I had a tough time with this one. I really had to push myself to continue through to the end. It was an okay read; honestly, it was much of the usual or same ol’, same ol’ to me. The idea behind the story was interesting and that was what originally caught my eye but the actual delivery - eh, not so much. I didn’t feel any sort of connection to the characters. I just didn’t care and I’ve never really had that happen before. I just wanted it to be over. There was also a whole lot of dragging on happening throughout the story - this takes away from the story as well as the characters’ build up. Cutting out much of the lag and repetitiveness would reduce the story in size and might help with connectivity between the readers and the characters, and could make for a more neat and concise read.
January 27, 2016
If you like action and Scotland you will enjoy this book. This is a mature read due to graphic scenes and some sex near the end. Allison did a good job developing her characters so the reader can't put it down. Duff was adopted as a child and he is seeking his real relatives. He sees a group riding to flee for their lives. He rides in to help. That is how Lady Mairi met Duff. Big Spoiler. She is to meet 3 suitors for her marriage and while they are good she is trying to like them. Spoiler. Someone is trying to kidnap Mairi. Duff is now her Protector. He stays close to her side. Spoiler. I like Scotland and I could see in my mind the landscape that Allison writes. I hope you will want to read this story. I finished in a day and a half. Please give this a chance and don't let it get away from you. Enjoy your reading! I have this book for an honest review for NetGalley.
December 23, 2015
Mairi and Duff's story
I really wanted to give this 4 1/2 stars but that didn't seem to be an option. Originally, I bought this book because I loved the cover, then enjoyed reading the story because of the characters. They were well developed and seemed realistic, as if the readers could easily picture/see them moving about while reading. Probably due to the things I personally had going in my life, it seemed to move at a slightly slower pace than I had anticipated. Don't let that make you hesitant about buying and reading however, as I am very glad I read it, because I enjoyed it, and bought the rest of the series. Ms Butler is a wonderful author who researches her topics so that she is able to include details in her stories.
I really wanted to give this 4 1/2 stars but that didn't seem to be an option. Originally, I bought this book because I loved the cover, then enjoyed reading the story because of the characters. They were well developed and seemed realistic, as if the readers could easily picture/see them moving about while reading. Probably due to the things I personally had going in my life, it seemed to move at a slightly slower pace than I had anticipated. Don't let that make you hesitant about buying and reading however, as I am very glad I read it, because I enjoyed it, and bought the rest of the series. Ms Butler is a wonderful author who researches her topics so that she is able to include details in her stories.
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