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Lowlands of Scotland #2
Fair Is the Rose
The Scottish Lowlands, October 1789.
A year has come and gone since Jamie McKie fled for his life, arriving at Auchengray in search of sanctuary and a bonny wife. Young Rose McBride, as fair a lass as any in Scotland, dearly loves her handsome cousin—but so does her older sister, Leana.
Determined to have Jamie all to herself, Rose puts in motion one desperate plan after another, enlisting the aid of Lillias Brown, a wise woman—a wutch, some say—still keen on the old ways. Impetuous Rose ignores the cruel whispers that travel up and down the parish hills, never dreaming of the tragic consequences that await her.
Her sister, Leana, clings to her hard-won sense of peace and assurance by a slender thread of faith. Day and night, Leana’s hours are apent caring for wee Ian and praying that her future will hold more promise than her past.
Jamie McKie is busy making his own plans to return home to Glentrool and claim his inheritance. To do so means facing Evan, the brother whose blessing he stole, and Alec, the father whom he ruthlessly deceived. It is a perilous journey that will test the depth of his courage, the strength of his sword, and the tenacity of his vow to honor Almighty God, no matter the cost.
A year has come and gone since Jamie McKie fled for his life, arriving at Auchengray in search of sanctuary and a bonny wife. Young Rose McBride, as fair a lass as any in Scotland, dearly loves her handsome cousin—but so does her older sister, Leana.
Determined to have Jamie all to herself, Rose puts in motion one desperate plan after another, enlisting the aid of Lillias Brown, a wise woman—a wutch, some say—still keen on the old ways. Impetuous Rose ignores the cruel whispers that travel up and down the parish hills, never dreaming of the tragic consequences that await her.
Her sister, Leana, clings to her hard-won sense of peace and assurance by a slender thread of faith. Day and night, Leana’s hours are apent caring for wee Ian and praying that her future will hold more promise than her past.
Jamie McKie is busy making his own plans to return home to Glentrool and claim his inheritance. To do so means facing Evan, the brother whose blessing he stole, and Alec, the father whom he ruthlessly deceived. It is a perilous journey that will test the depth of his courage, the strength of his sword, and the tenacity of his vow to honor Almighty God, no matter the cost.
464 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2004
127 people are currently reading
2118 people want to read
About the author
Liz Curtis Higgs
76 books1,430 followersFormer Bad Girl, grateful for the grace God offers. Happy wife of Bill, one of the Good Guys. Proud mom of two grown-up kids with tender hearts. Lame housekeeper. Marginal cook. Pitiful gardener. Stuff I love? Encouraging my sisters in Christ—across the page, from the platform, online, in person. Unpacking Scripture. Traveling wherever God leads. Listening to His heart. Leaning into His embrace.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 229 reviews
April 21, 2009
Fair is the Rose is the second part to the Lowlands Series by Liz Curtis Higgs. I did not like the first big, but considering I have all 4 books in the series, I figured I should finish them.
Be warned- spoilers are in this review.
I hated the plot. In the first book, Jamie gets to choose a wife among his two cousins--sisters Leanna and Rose. Leanna is hopelessly in love with Jamie, but he immediately prefers Rose but through a series of deception, events, etc. he is married to Leanna. Rose at first has no feelings but starts to like, love Jamie. His feelings for Rose are so overwhelming he still pretty much cheats on his wife Leanna. Meanwhile Leanna is the perfect, sweet, wife and sister. At the end of the first book, Leanna gives birth and Jamie realizes what a complete a** he has been.
When I picked up the second book, I thought it was going to be about how Rose found her true love. NO, no, no. In the second book, Jamie is completely devoted to Leanna and loves her and their son. Rose is chasing after him. Then through another series of stupid events, the church decides Jamie is actually legally married to Rose and must cast Leanna aside and their son Ian is to be considered Roses'. Leanna, once more the unselfish one, leaves to give Rose and Jamie a chance to fall in love and be a family. And in the end, Ian runs up to Rose and yells out MAMA--like that is supposed to be a happy nice ending. What!
Be warned- spoilers are in this review.
I hated the plot. In the first book, Jamie gets to choose a wife among his two cousins--sisters Leanna and Rose. Leanna is hopelessly in love with Jamie, but he immediately prefers Rose but through a series of deception, events, etc. he is married to Leanna. Rose at first has no feelings but starts to like, love Jamie. His feelings for Rose are so overwhelming he still pretty much cheats on his wife Leanna. Meanwhile Leanna is the perfect, sweet, wife and sister. At the end of the first book, Leanna gives birth and Jamie realizes what a complete a** he has been.
When I picked up the second book, I thought it was going to be about how Rose found her true love. NO, no, no. In the second book, Jamie is completely devoted to Leanna and loves her and their son. Rose is chasing after him. Then through another series of stupid events, the church decides Jamie is actually legally married to Rose and must cast Leanna aside and their son Ian is to be considered Roses'. Leanna, once more the unselfish one, leaves to give Rose and Jamie a chance to fall in love and be a family. And in the end, Ian runs up to Rose and yells out MAMA--like that is supposed to be a happy nice ending. What!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2009
Christian fiction? More like alternate Biblical history...
Here's the thing. You do not take one of the greatest loves in the Bible (Jacob's love for Rachel) and fictionalize it into a great love story between Leah and Jacob.
Biblical fact: Rachel was a shepherdess. This is even what she was doing when Jacob met her. The Bible does not paint her to be a lazy, self-centered, vengeful girl who cares for no one but herself.
In this book, Rose (Rachel) is painted to make everyone hate her, but she is the only innocent one. Everyone tells her to lie about the deception of her wedding night when her husband was stolen from her. Jamie (Jacob) comes to love Leeana (Leah) and despise Rose even though the Bible dictates that Jacob never loved Leah and always loved Rachel.
If this story wasn't based on truth and the Bible, these author liberties wouldn't bother me. She's made Rose (Rachel) evil, searching out witches and doing spells to win back Jaime's love.
You know what the Bible says about Leah? It never mentions her working, but it does mention her weak eyes which sounds like she wasn't good to do much help with anything. But the Bible says that Rachel's profession was a shepherdess. Who exactly is this author basing her characters on? In this trilogy, Leana is the respected hard worker, the best at everything domestic, and the epitome of love while Rose is always trying to put off work so she can flirt with the boys or do something to make herself more beautiful. Honestly, the character dimensions are too flat. Leana is ugly yet loving and Rose is beautiful and selfish - it's way too cliched and unBiblical to boot.
I hated the second wedding. It was completely unfair to Rose. Rose had nothing to do with Leana's deception, but Rose continued to pay for it over and over again.
The ending did give me some piece of mind since Leana finally shows self-sacrificial love and leaves Rose and Jaime alone - too bad she couldn't do that once they became engaged. My heart finally softened for Leana.
I can't understand all these women rooting for Rose's misery and Leana's victory of Jamie's heart. If their sister or best friend slept with their husband on their wedding night, I don't think they'd be rooting for her. If my sister slept with my husband and kept telling me that she loved me, I don't think she'd know what love meant. In this book, Leana's deception is what turns Rose into who she becomes. The funny thing is, Rose doesn't have to be deceptive to get her revenge; just honest.
Here's the thing. You do not take one of the greatest loves in the Bible (Jacob's love for Rachel) and fictionalize it into a great love story between Leah and Jacob.
Biblical fact: Rachel was a shepherdess. This is even what she was doing when Jacob met her. The Bible does not paint her to be a lazy, self-centered, vengeful girl who cares for no one but herself.
In this book, Rose (Rachel) is painted to make everyone hate her, but she is the only innocent one. Everyone tells her to lie about the deception of her wedding night when her husband was stolen from her. Jamie (Jacob) comes to love Leeana (Leah) and despise Rose even though the Bible dictates that Jacob never loved Leah and always loved Rachel.
If this story wasn't based on truth and the Bible, these author liberties wouldn't bother me. She's made Rose (Rachel) evil, searching out witches and doing spells to win back Jaime's love.
You know what the Bible says about Leah? It never mentions her working, but it does mention her weak eyes which sounds like she wasn't good to do much help with anything. But the Bible says that Rachel's profession was a shepherdess. Who exactly is this author basing her characters on? In this trilogy, Leana is the respected hard worker, the best at everything domestic, and the epitome of love while Rose is always trying to put off work so she can flirt with the boys or do something to make herself more beautiful. Honestly, the character dimensions are too flat. Leana is ugly yet loving and Rose is beautiful and selfish - it's way too cliched and unBiblical to boot.
I hated the second wedding. It was completely unfair to Rose. Rose had nothing to do with Leana's deception, but Rose continued to pay for it over and over again.
The ending did give me some piece of mind since Leana finally shows self-sacrificial love and leaves Rose and Jaime alone - too bad she couldn't do that once they became engaged. My heart finally softened for Leana.
I can't understand all these women rooting for Rose's misery and Leana's victory of Jamie's heart. If their sister or best friend slept with their husband on their wedding night, I don't think they'd be rooting for her. If my sister slept with my husband and kept telling me that she loved me, I don't think she'd know what love meant. In this book, Leana's deception is what turns Rose into who she becomes. The funny thing is, Rose doesn't have to be deceptive to get her revenge; just honest.
April 6, 2015
This book just made me sad.
February 4, 2011
Jamie has been spoken to by God. God has told him He will never forsake him. And when the time comes, the Lord gives Jamie strength to do right by Leana, even if he does not love her. But he is trying. He is trying more than ever – and it appears to everyone that he is succeeding, much to Rose’s dismay and heartbreak. Her sister stole what was rightfully hers – her husband! But just when things seem to be working out between Jamie and Leana – right when they fully become one and truly love each other the way they are supposed to – the unthinkable happens.
They will never be the same again.
____________________________________
I’m having a hard time feeling motivated to write this review. It’s a hard book to review when you don’t know if you actually liked the book or not. :/ But I will do my best.
I love Leana. From the second half of the first book, she was my favorite character. She had the love for God, the love for Jamie, and the heart to serve others. I was amazed by her character and I wanted to be like her. It was the same in this book. And Jamie…he’s a wonderful man. Put to the test, he will stand by righteousness. That’s what I love about him. But Rose… Ugh. Rose. I really really reallllly did not like Rose in this story. She was selfish, rude, did not hold her tongue, did stupid things throughout the story, and pretty much drove me up the wall. Jamie realizes that he doesn’t love her anymore, and sees this selfishness, but then that “unthinkable” thing happens and… Yah.
So, I’m not going to say what happens right here. I’m going to write it below this review, so that whoever wishes to read it can, and those who don’t want to can skip it. What I will say is that I found it to be almost…perverse. It not only made me boil with anger, and made me sick to my stomach, but it was inhumane, and totally unbelievable. The characters believe that the elders in their church are good, Godly men, but the choice they make is anything but Godly.
Another thing is this: if you’re going to re-write a Bible story, please please please do it right!!! I don’t mind if you make certain changes as necessary, but if you choose an era to re-write the story in, and the original story is not believable in that time period, then PLEASE don’t use it. It makes no sense at all and it puts the author in a weird situation because then he/she must change the course of the story too much.
But there are really amazing things to this story as well. Leana’s character is one that I will always remember, even if I decide never to read these books again. (Once I get the third one in and read a bit more about it, I’ll make a decision on whether or not I like the series and would recommend it.) Leana showed the most incredible peace and kindness and love and all the other fruits of the spirit in an incredibly difficult time in her life (any mother and wife who loves her children and husband would be horrified by what happens in this story). It is a peace that can only come from God. By that, I was amazed. Another great thing about this story is the writing; Higgs knows how to work her words very well. She’s also an easy read. I am not the fastest reader alive, and I am a senior in highschool – and I still found time to read this book in two days plus finish all my school.
So would I recommend? I haven’t decided yet. I guess that depends on the outcome of the third book…which I’m not even really excited about reading. I no longer care for the story, only to see what happens in the end. I guess I will just have to see if the story grabs me again. I’m disappointed…
SPOILERS!
Don’t read if you still want to read the book. However, if you are curious about what I disliked about the book so much, this will give you a good insight before you make the journey yourself…if you decide to do so…
Jamie is shocked to hear that he is not actually married to Leana, but to Rose, due to a problem with the records. The Reverend comes to him, explains the dilemma and how everything got mixed up, and tells him there’s a way to fix it all. They must sit before the Session and each person must tell his/her side of the story. Rose says one thing that could possibly be against them; Jamie manages to cover it up well, but when Leana goes in, she believes that Rose has said more, and ends up telling them all about how she loved Jamie and thought maybe he loved her, and went and took Rose’s place in his bed after the marriage ceremony. The reason she does it? Because she wants to be blameless before the Lord. I agree 100% with that; in fact, I respected Leana’s character sososososoooo much more because of it. Her courage amazed me. But it’s what they do after that that makes me cringe. First, they say that Leana must relenquish her place as Mistress McKie, and give that to Rose. Then they take her son and give him to Rose. And then they make her sit in front of the whole church audience for three weeks in a row, with unbound hair and in a simple white dress, and confess her sins. And then they make Rose and Jamie get married not even a month later, if I remember correctly. It is heartless, unthinkable, and totally not Biblical. If a man and woman are married by practice, it doesn’t freaking matter what the record says – change the record! It’s not that important! So basically Jamie, who can do nothing to change this, must go from sleeping with one woman to another in three weeks. No mourning period. No time to wait for God to work on his heart. Nothing. (He ends up getting Rose pregnant, and trying to see the good in their forced marriage…I didn’t feel that he mourned Leana enough. Really, that is a major issue. It seemed out of character for Jamie, and yet, it was good of him to seek peace in the Lord even in trials. It just didn’t seem realistic at all – but the story isn’t really realistic in general…) This deeply bothered me and the only reason why I’m not against recommending this series completely is because the third book may have some sort of redemption… I sincerely hope it does.
They will never be the same again.
____________________________________
I’m having a hard time feeling motivated to write this review. It’s a hard book to review when you don’t know if you actually liked the book or not. :/ But I will do my best.
I love Leana. From the second half of the first book, she was my favorite character. She had the love for God, the love for Jamie, and the heart to serve others. I was amazed by her character and I wanted to be like her. It was the same in this book. And Jamie…he’s a wonderful man. Put to the test, he will stand by righteousness. That’s what I love about him. But Rose… Ugh. Rose. I really really reallllly did not like Rose in this story. She was selfish, rude, did not hold her tongue, did stupid things throughout the story, and pretty much drove me up the wall. Jamie realizes that he doesn’t love her anymore, and sees this selfishness, but then that “unthinkable” thing happens and… Yah.
So, I’m not going to say what happens right here. I’m going to write it below this review, so that whoever wishes to read it can, and those who don’t want to can skip it. What I will say is that I found it to be almost…perverse. It not only made me boil with anger, and made me sick to my stomach, but it was inhumane, and totally unbelievable. The characters believe that the elders in their church are good, Godly men, but the choice they make is anything but Godly.
Another thing is this: if you’re going to re-write a Bible story, please please please do it right!!! I don’t mind if you make certain changes as necessary, but if you choose an era to re-write the story in, and the original story is not believable in that time period, then PLEASE don’t use it. It makes no sense at all and it puts the author in a weird situation because then he/she must change the course of the story too much.
But there are really amazing things to this story as well. Leana’s character is one that I will always remember, even if I decide never to read these books again. (Once I get the third one in and read a bit more about it, I’ll make a decision on whether or not I like the series and would recommend it.) Leana showed the most incredible peace and kindness and love and all the other fruits of the spirit in an incredibly difficult time in her life (any mother and wife who loves her children and husband would be horrified by what happens in this story). It is a peace that can only come from God. By that, I was amazed. Another great thing about this story is the writing; Higgs knows how to work her words very well. She’s also an easy read. I am not the fastest reader alive, and I am a senior in highschool – and I still found time to read this book in two days plus finish all my school.
So would I recommend? I haven’t decided yet. I guess that depends on the outcome of the third book…which I’m not even really excited about reading. I no longer care for the story, only to see what happens in the end. I guess I will just have to see if the story grabs me again. I’m disappointed…
SPOILERS!
Don’t read if you still want to read the book. However, if you are curious about what I disliked about the book so much, this will give you a good insight before you make the journey yourself…if you decide to do so…
Jamie is shocked to hear that he is not actually married to Leana, but to Rose, due to a problem with the records. The Reverend comes to him, explains the dilemma and how everything got mixed up, and tells him there’s a way to fix it all. They must sit before the Session and each person must tell his/her side of the story. Rose says one thing that could possibly be against them; Jamie manages to cover it up well, but when Leana goes in, she believes that Rose has said more, and ends up telling them all about how she loved Jamie and thought maybe he loved her, and went and took Rose’s place in his bed after the marriage ceremony. The reason she does it? Because she wants to be blameless before the Lord. I agree 100% with that; in fact, I respected Leana’s character sososososoooo much more because of it. Her courage amazed me. But it’s what they do after that that makes me cringe. First, they say that Leana must relenquish her place as Mistress McKie, and give that to Rose. Then they take her son and give him to Rose. And then they make her sit in front of the whole church audience for three weeks in a row, with unbound hair and in a simple white dress, and confess her sins. And then they make Rose and Jamie get married not even a month later, if I remember correctly. It is heartless, unthinkable, and totally not Biblical. If a man and woman are married by practice, it doesn’t freaking matter what the record says – change the record! It’s not that important! So basically Jamie, who can do nothing to change this, must go from sleeping with one woman to another in three weeks. No mourning period. No time to wait for God to work on his heart. Nothing. (He ends up getting Rose pregnant, and trying to see the good in their forced marriage…I didn’t feel that he mourned Leana enough. Really, that is a major issue. It seemed out of character for Jamie, and yet, it was good of him to seek peace in the Lord even in trials. It just didn’t seem realistic at all – but the story isn’t really realistic in general…) This deeply bothered me and the only reason why I’m not against recommending this series completely is because the third book may have some sort of redemption… I sincerely hope it does.
August 3, 2011
Liz Curtis Higgs is my new favorite author. I absolutely love her books. I cannot stop devouring them. At the end of the last one, I loved the three main characters, something not uncommon for me. They all had their faults, but I love them anyway. But at the end of this one, I really really don't like Rose one little bit. She's a selfish little brat who cares about no one but herself. Especially not her sister, who wronged her all of one time in her life without meaning to, and loved her far beyond what she deserved before and since. Needless to say, I was not happy the way this one ended, I just kept going 'no, no, this is SO wrong!' *sigh* I cannot wait to read the next one. And being that I actually started with #4 and know how things work out - good thing I do or I'd be so angry right now - I'm anxious for what happens to Rose. Not that I'm proud of it, I generally hate it when that happens to a character, especially a main one like her. But for her, I'm anxious for it. I know the end was probably supposed to make us like her a little more and see how she really is trying to be better - but she really isn't, she wants the change but without doing any actual changing. Her thoughts are as selfish as ever. It's very unusual that I hate a main character so much, when you're not really supposed to hate her, but I just love Leana and what Rose does to her is just so so wrong.
August 24, 2014
"Fair is the Rose" is the sequel to "Thorn in My Heart" and picks up exactly where the first book left off. In fact, the first chapter is from Rose's point of view rather than Leana and Jaime's. While Jamie and Leana settle into marriage with their newborn son, Ian, Rose heads to a girl's finishing school in Dumfries. I would have hoped that the author would have given readers a little bit of a break to see our characters grow in their love for a bit. But even with Rose away and Jamie's declaration of love and fidelity, Leana spent so much time obsessing about her sister. Rose does the same thing.
I do have to agree with other reviewers that Rose is not anything like the biblical Rachel and has remained such a static character throughout the two books. I am having a little problem thinking that in the third book we will see a 180 and I don't know how I would feel about that.
It is hard to explain that while I don't really love this series, I am sucked into finding what is going to happen to our characters.
I do have to agree with other reviewers that Rose is not anything like the biblical Rachel and has remained such a static character throughout the two books. I am having a little problem thinking that in the third book we will see a 180 and I don't know how I would feel about that.
It is hard to explain that while I don't really love this series, I am sucked into finding what is going to happen to our characters.
June 11, 2012
Once I found out the plot, I just couldn't get into it, especially since I didn't like any of the characters. Never finished.
March 4, 2013
Couldn't finish this-it made me too mad.
December 11, 2013
I could not read it I admit it. It was too painful, so I just skimmed. I really did not like Rose
October 15, 2011
The plot line in these books is unbelievable! I was a little worried about reading this one because I knew they were loosely based on the story of Jacob, Leah, and Rachel in the bible and wondered how things were going to work out!! I absolutely loved the beginning of this book! I love Leanna - she is just so good and it's great to see how things are finally working out for her. It's such a sweet love story! I wanted things to work out for Rose as well, but I thought the twists and turns this book and story took were just SO SO SO WRONG! I kept expecting there to be a way for things to change so things wouldn't be so horrible! By the end of the book, I hated Rose. She was just so selfish!! And I couldn't believe what happened to everyone because of her and the church! It was just completely maddening!! But, it's so SO well written, and definitely gets you emotionally involved in the story and the characters. This book definitely makes you feel. And because of that, I couldn't put it down. I just HAD to see what was going to happen!! Even though I was disappointed in what did happen, I enjoyed reading it. I have been wondering whether or not to read the next one, though, because things SO did NOT work out how I wanted them to!!! But, some reviews have lead me to believe that things work out, so I'll probably keep reading, because I'm just glued to these characters.
December 11, 2011
For a book with a Christian theme, I was really apalled by the plot twists that the storyline took. I kept hoping that it would redeem itself, but it never did.
I think I could have lived with it if not for the fact that Leana also lost her son to her own sister Rose, who seemed to think that was quite alright.
I kept hoping that Rose would do the right thing, but she was selfish to the end. I couldn't help but intenseley dislike Rose after that, and who can enjoy a book where the protagonist is unlikeable? Answer: no one.
Very disappointing, especially since I have now invested my time to read both the first book in the series as well as this one, the second. I don't know that I have the desire to read the third in the series after this disappointing offering.
I think I could have lived with it if not for the fact that Leana also lost her son to her own sister Rose, who seemed to think that was quite alright.
I kept hoping that Rose would do the right thing, but she was selfish to the end. I couldn't help but intenseley dislike Rose after that, and who can enjoy a book where the protagonist is unlikeable? Answer: no one.
Very disappointing, especially since I have now invested my time to read both the first book in the series as well as this one, the second. I don't know that I have the desire to read the third in the series after this disappointing offering.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2019
Horrible plot twists. Honestly should have given up this series at the slightly happy conclusion of the first book, but I did not see these ridiculous turns coming.
Ridiculous thing after ridiculous thing happens in this horrific love triangle. For some reason no one is able to actually say what they think and no one is able to impact the outcome of their own life except the despicable younger sister.
I hear the next book’s plot improves for the likable characters, but really?! Can’t believe how badly this ended.
Ridiculous thing after ridiculous thing happens in this horrific love triangle. For some reason no one is able to actually say what they think and no one is able to impact the outcome of their own life except the despicable younger sister.
I hear the next book’s plot improves for the likable characters, but really?! Can’t believe how badly this ended.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 17, 2024
A book that elicited many emotions. It brought tears to my eyes more than once. I was so indignant and then honestly angry both at and for the characters. It left me wondering if I could have been so forgiving in such a terrible situation.
March 24, 2024
It's hard to cheer for Rose. But I do like the bigger scope of loving people who don't seem very deserving. It's honorable but disatisfying. Not a very lofty sentiment lol...but an honest one.
Read
August 8, 2019Review and rating to come
December 5, 2022
This is book 2 in a series and I enjoyed it a lot. I've been looking for books 1 and 3 but have had no luck finding them yet. I would recommend reading the series in order if possible.
November 2, 2007
I couldn't put this book down. The story is simple, yet complex. I was honestly mad by the end of the book because so many bad things had happened to one of the characters that I loved, and even more good things to a character I didn't like. In the end I had to admit that this story brought about complicated emotions, because life is complicated. Sin doesn't make things easy and hurts those who commit it just as much as those it is committed against when the sinner realizes how wrong s/he has been. It is also an amazing story about the power of grace and forgiveness. I still don't like the ending for my own selfish reasons, but I am eagerly awaiting the arrival of the next book by interlibrary loan.
December 7, 2010
I absolutely loved this book, the second in the jamie, Rose, and Leana series. However, there were times I found myself in tears. This is truly a heartwrenching story, but so well written you do not want to put it down. Liz manages to weave a Biblical story into a novel of Scotland, that of Jacob, Rachael and Leah, and it is wonderfully told and so moving. The plain Leana is in the shadows of her perky and lovely younger sister, but sje manages to snag a husband by some deceit with her father, and what ensues is a terrific read. I do not know if I could be as brave and kind as Leana is. She has become one of my favorite heroines.I absolutely loved the first two in this series and can't wait to read the third one.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
November 1, 2009
This series is well written without question, but these books toy with your emotions like nothing I've ever read. The angst filled love triangle is one which I love and hate simultaneously. Jamie teeters between Rose and Leana and you never know what the author is going to do with them or how or how much of the bibilical story of Jacob and his family will make it into the mix. I don't always like where the plot goes, but the story is interesting and the setting is unforgettable. I think of Scotland daily now and I find myself thinking of their vocabulary and intriguing historical customs with a smile.
September 25, 2010
Second in the series of the Scottish Lowlands and I must say I enjoyed this book quite a bit more than the first. Okay...so I consider myself pretty level headed, grounded and loyal...so what's up with this author being able to twist and shift my emotions and loyalties!! Wow...how does she do that?? I've read in several of the reviews that the reader had to put the book down and step away for a while!! I can totally understand!! I love it...wait! I hate it!! Angst, angst, angst!! Definitely keeps you turning pages!
Loved it:)
Loved it:)
April 15, 2020
DNF. I had purchased this along with the first in the series, which was a bookclub read. I hoped things would settle down with the ending of the first but it doesn’t. The drama continues and at 55% I couldn’t do it anymore. Skimmed the rest and am glad I decided to discontinue. Not sure if I can blame it on Covid-19 and my irritable moods or if I really hated the story that much.
May 8, 2018
Fantastic book.
This book is so good, I could scarcely put it down, there are parts that are a real tear jerker, so keep your tissues handy.
This book is so good, I could scarcely put it down, there are parts that are a real tear jerker, so keep your tissues handy.
September 21, 2019
This is the second novel in Liz Curtis Higgs' adaptation of the story of Jacob, Leah and Rachel to 18th century Scotland.
In book one, we read how Jamie McKee tricked his father into giving the blessing to him, rather than his slightly older twin and then had to flee to the home of his mother to marry one of her nieces. Jamie picked the younger cousin, charming and vivacious Rose, as his betrothed and worked to win her hand from his uncle. Rose at first was disinterested and tried to get him to fall for her sister Leanna, but then fell for Jamie herself. Leanna's father, thinking he'd never be able to marry off the older sister, persuaded the lovesick lass to stand in for her sister at both the wedding ceremony and the night's celebrations, so Jamie found himself married to the girl he had overlooked.
In book two, Jamie has resigned himself to being a good husband to Leanna and has made that clear to Rose. Leanna has given birth to their son, Ian, and Jamie has grown to deeply love and appreciate both the mother and her child.
Rose, however, still wants her cousin's love. She listens to a "wise woman" (a witch) and a wild young lady from the school for girls which her father sends her to, and continues to pursue the young man's affections, scorning the attempts of other suitors to court and marry her. She resorts to charms and spells to gain his love. A serious illness leaves her sick and possibly barren, but she still desires to marry a bear a child for her cousin.
The questionable methods Leanna and her father used to trick Jamie into marrying her come under investigation by the local church leadership, due to a "clerical oversight," and Jamie and Leanna lose everything they tried to build together. Rose seems to get what she wanted, but Jamie has grown out of his affection for her and resents her meddling to get what she wanted. Leanna is truly repentant and tries to do what is right in the eyes of God, the church, her husband, son and sister--sacrificing everything for their sakes.
This was a very touching story. I found myself identifying with and rooting more for selfless Leanna than for conniving Rose. And yet Higgs makes you feel for all three of her point-of-view characters in this convoluted love triangle. I read it aloud to my husband on an extended road trip, and now we can hardly wait to read the third installment in the series. Some parts of it are hardly believable, yet the author has clearly done her homework. And I love how she weaves old Scottish dialect and customs into her tale.
If you enjoy historical romance with a biblical theme, Liz Curtis Higgs is a master! There's humor, intrigue, suspense and action--something for everyone to be had in this compelling tale of love, betrayal and loss.
In book one, we read how Jamie McKee tricked his father into giving the blessing to him, rather than his slightly older twin and then had to flee to the home of his mother to marry one of her nieces. Jamie picked the younger cousin, charming and vivacious Rose, as his betrothed and worked to win her hand from his uncle. Rose at first was disinterested and tried to get him to fall for her sister Leanna, but then fell for Jamie herself. Leanna's father, thinking he'd never be able to marry off the older sister, persuaded the lovesick lass to stand in for her sister at both the wedding ceremony and the night's celebrations, so Jamie found himself married to the girl he had overlooked.
In book two, Jamie has resigned himself to being a good husband to Leanna and has made that clear to Rose. Leanna has given birth to their son, Ian, and Jamie has grown to deeply love and appreciate both the mother and her child.
Rose, however, still wants her cousin's love. She listens to a "wise woman" (a witch) and a wild young lady from the school for girls which her father sends her to, and continues to pursue the young man's affections, scorning the attempts of other suitors to court and marry her. She resorts to charms and spells to gain his love. A serious illness leaves her sick and possibly barren, but she still desires to marry a bear a child for her cousin.
The questionable methods Leanna and her father used to trick Jamie into marrying her come under investigation by the local church leadership, due to a "clerical oversight," and Jamie and Leanna lose everything they tried to build together. Rose seems to get what she wanted, but Jamie has grown out of his affection for her and resents her meddling to get what she wanted. Leanna is truly repentant and tries to do what is right in the eyes of God, the church, her husband, son and sister--sacrificing everything for their sakes.
This was a very touching story. I found myself identifying with and rooting more for selfless Leanna than for conniving Rose. And yet Higgs makes you feel for all three of her point-of-view characters in this convoluted love triangle. I read it aloud to my husband on an extended road trip, and now we can hardly wait to read the third installment in the series. Some parts of it are hardly believable, yet the author has clearly done her homework. And I love how she weaves old Scottish dialect and customs into her tale.
If you enjoy historical romance with a biblical theme, Liz Curtis Higgs is a master! There's humor, intrigue, suspense and action--something for everyone to be had in this compelling tale of love, betrayal and loss.
April 4, 2025
Ok, so. I want to say up front that I'm not the typical reader of this series, I'm sure, as I'm not of the religious community that it's written for. So let's get that out of the way.
That said, I think, in this case, that actually helps. I'm not so familiar with the source material (Bible stories) that I see all the twists and turns coming. And because of that, the TEA is PIPING hot. I'm not here for the Jesus of it all; I'm here for the ✨drama.✨ Sorry, Liz.
Without spoilers, here are my thoughts. The first 50% of the book - nothing happens. Honestly, the first half could have been cut down by 100 pages and you'd have the same amount of plot. HOWEVER, quite a lot of character development happens in this part of the book. Character development that, had it occurred in book 1, would have saved everyone a whole lot of trouble. Also wouldn't have been much of a story, admittedly, so I can forgive it for coming way too late. Might I say, sans spoilers....: we love a man who simps this hard for his wife. We truly love to see it.
And then the shit hits the fan, and the drama ensues. Again, I won't get into spoilers, but I was GOOPED. I was GAGGED.
At about the 80% mark, I was heartbroken. I was crying literal actual tears. I was leaving one of my friends ranting voice notes of the plot because I had to talk to SOMEBODY about this book. I was sobbing with a highlighter in my hand. What I'm trying to say is that this book had me all the way fucked up. And then the END??? TRASH.
I would love to say lil sis gets some character development but where? From first to last page, it never left my attention that she's an actual fucking child. Her immaturity knows no bounds. I can't get into it, because spoilers, but are you kidding me?
I'm not sure who we're meant to root for but I'm team #leana until there is no breath in my LUNGS. I have no doubt that when I read this as a preteen, I was probably very team Rose. Hysterical. Insane. Leana is an actual saint who deserves the world. She has done no wrong. I will hear no words against her. You can't even come at me with "well she deceived Jamie" because NO, her dad gave her no choice. lalalalala I can't hear you.
Book 3 better have the best redemption arc or I'm burning this series to the GROUUUUUND.
But yeah, anyway, it made me cry. And normally that would automatically boost the book to 5 stars but I'm so angry and annoyed about the ending, it fell back down to 4 stars.
That said, I think, in this case, that actually helps. I'm not so familiar with the source material (Bible stories) that I see all the twists and turns coming. And because of that, the TEA is PIPING hot. I'm not here for the Jesus of it all; I'm here for the ✨drama.✨ Sorry, Liz.
Without spoilers, here are my thoughts. The first 50% of the book - nothing happens. Honestly, the first half could have been cut down by 100 pages and you'd have the same amount of plot. HOWEVER, quite a lot of character development happens in this part of the book. Character development that, had it occurred in book 1, would have saved everyone a whole lot of trouble. Also wouldn't have been much of a story, admittedly, so I can forgive it for coming way too late. Might I say, sans spoilers....: we love a man who simps this hard for his wife. We truly love to see it.
And then the shit hits the fan, and the drama ensues. Again, I won't get into spoilers, but I was GOOPED. I was GAGGED.
At about the 80% mark, I was heartbroken. I was crying literal actual tears. I was leaving one of my friends ranting voice notes of the plot because I had to talk to SOMEBODY about this book. I was sobbing with a highlighter in my hand. What I'm trying to say is that this book had me all the way fucked up. And then the END??? TRASH.
I would love to say lil sis gets some character development but where? From first to last page, it never left my attention that she's an actual fucking child. Her immaturity knows no bounds. I can't get into it, because spoilers, but are you kidding me?
I'm not sure who we're meant to root for but I'm team #leana until there is no breath in my LUNGS. I have no doubt that when I read this as a preteen, I was probably very team Rose. Hysterical. Insane. Leana is an actual saint who deserves the world. She has done no wrong. I will hear no words against her. You can't even come at me with "well she deceived Jamie" because NO, her dad gave her no choice. lalalalala I can't hear you.
Book 3 better have the best redemption arc or I'm burning this series to the GROUUUUUND.
But yeah, anyway, it made me cry. And normally that would automatically boost the book to 5 stars but I'm so angry and annoyed about the ending, it fell back down to 4 stars.
November 16, 2021
Rose is the typical pampered, spoiled girl child in this middle follow-on book of the saga. From her perspective where her sister had "cheated" her out of her husband-to-be, she determined to reclaim what she felt was "hers" no matter the cost. She knew Leana was in love with Jamie, the handsome cousin on a mission to wed one of the two McBride sisters. After a year and a baby, and now Jamie and Leana lived as a deeply in love couple in her old bedroom, yet Rose couldn't leave well enough alone and continued to feel scorned. She had to have her way. Her selfishness and a technicality of missing records paid by her divising father to correct the names in the parish kirk put great ill-intent upon a marriage and a family just like that. Her chasing after a witch to both impress a friend and to predict her future was a naughty event as well as most costly to life and limb. Rose's actions caused quite a high price to all involved in her family, and much scorn within the community. I was not so fond of Rose's character. Two sisters couldn't be more opposite. She was thoroughly selfish, and Leana just as oppositely self-sacrificing. Yet Ms Higgs has a grand way of drawing the reader into this captivating story, and stirring up quite the emotional pictures. I am already into the third and final book of this saga, as it is hard to put down. The Scottish Lowlands, characters filled with lively adventures and brogue come very alive through her stories.
May 15, 2023
Oh my goodness! This is book 2 of the Lowland of Scottland series and continues the retelling of Jacob, Leah, and Rachel in the Bible. I always had a special devotion to Leah and in this re-telling I'm so thankful the author wrote her the way she did. Rose is anything but fair! She turns to witchcraft and will stoop to do anything to anyone who gets in the way of what she wants! The author did a very good job at making the characters believable. I was on the verge of tears and can't wait to get my hands on the next book in this series!
This novel may not be good for those who cannot separate the good of religion with the hardness of the men in charge of religion. Religion means relationship and sometimes those in authority of a church create rules that hinder that relationship.
Oh Leana! Dear, sweet Leana! She is sacrificial, loving but unloved, selfless, abused, manipulated and dare I say scrupulous. I needed several days to process what was written. I understand the story had to be written this way, but I feel sick from the injustice. God's grace accompanies the brokenhearted.
This novel may not be good for those who cannot separate the good of religion with the hardness of the men in charge of religion. Religion means relationship and sometimes those in authority of a church create rules that hinder that relationship.
Oh Leana! Dear, sweet Leana! She is sacrificial, loving but unloved, selfless, abused, manipulated and dare I say scrupulous. I needed several days to process what was written. I understand the story had to be written this way, but I feel sick from the injustice. God's grace accompanies the brokenhearted.
February 23, 2025
This story is inspired by the struggle between Rachel and Leah for Jacob's affection - but the setting demands some significant changes to the story line. Jamie can't be married to two women at once - so who will win his heart and how will God's grace win when all three are caught in a web of lies, deceit, and selfishness? Rose is tempted by the local witch and evil companions at her boarding school while Leana fights to hold onto her faith and hope in Christ. Jamie must fight to become a man of faith and integrity while protecting both women. Higgs writes a winsome and powerful story of faith and redemption in the midst of great sin - without delving unecessarily into descriptions of sin.
This book is not for young readers; even parents of teens need to use discretion. The content is best for mature women as it deals with sin, adultery, marital relationships, and pregnancy.
This book is not for young readers; even parents of teens need to use discretion. The content is best for mature women as it deals with sin, adultery, marital relationships, and pregnancy.
August 13, 2021
Finishing this book is like exiting a dream. Like I'm actually packing up and leaving 18th century Scotland. That's how real this book felt. This has to be some of the best researched books I've ever read. Every detail popped from the page from the sights and sounds to the accents. At times Fair is the Rose felt a little slow, but that was ok to me because I could just soak in the atmosphere.
This book was full of drama which at times I enjoyed and at other times I cringed. The characters all made me like and dislike them at different times (lol), but I think that's what made them human. They definitely were not perfect cookie cutter characters. I've very interested to see what is next for these characters and how Higgs wraps up the series.
This book was full of drama which at times I enjoyed and at other times I cringed. The characters all made me like and dislike them at different times (lol), but I think that's what made them human. They definitely were not perfect cookie cutter characters. I've very interested to see what is next for these characters and how Higgs wraps up the series.
June 30, 2024
Set in 1789 in Scotland, this story is a reimagined classic of the story of Rachel and Lea in the Bible. I felt that the novel was quite lengthy. The story was set in Scotland and the two sisters attended the Kirk or Church of Scotland. Both sisters were in love with a cousin and, of course, the story of Rachel and Lea was repeated in full. I was so surprised at the punishments used by the Church of Scotland in that time period (late 1700's) and found that the forgiveness of the Bible as well as grace weren't practiced as written.
This book may appeal to others, but it was definitely not one of my favorites from an author I usually enjoy.
This book may appeal to others, but it was definitely not one of my favorites from an author I usually enjoy.
November 5, 2017
This author is the real deal!!!! I simply devoured the first book, and immediately read through the second and third books in the series. Book two had me wholly consumed, and broke my heart. I rarely cry in books, but man, this book got to me!!! Ms. Higgs' vivid details and rich character development takes your heart on an arduous journey- that is so worth it... I would highly recommend this series to anyone, though have book 3 on hand. You're not going to want to sleep after finishing book 2!!!!
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