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The Highlander's Bride #1
The Highlander's Accidental Bride
He married the woman the king commanded to end the feud--or did he?
Scotland. 1375 A.D. A generations-long feud rages between the Scott and Barde clans. Weary of the strife along his border, King Robert II decrees a marriage between Laird Eaden Scott and Lord Barde’s daughter, Miriam. But when marriage negotiations fail, Eaden takes matters into his own hands and kidnaps his bride.
Mary Marsh only wanted to help her friend. Sleeping in Miriam’s bed whilst she slipped away for the evening had seemed simple enough—until a stranger enters the chamber in the dead of night, and a misstep lands Mary with more than a bump on her head and a temporary loss of memory.
With no recourse for their accidental marriage, the hardheaded laird and shy lady’s companion must either live in strife or find common ground. Will Eaden be able to convince Mary of his growing love? Or will she find the ghosts of his past too much to bear?
If you enjoy enemies to lovers romance mixed with an arranged marriage and a plot full of twists and turns, you’ll love this second chance romance between a rugged, stubborn Scot and a young woman determined to create something worthwhile out of a doomed marriage.
Scotland. 1375 A.D. A generations-long feud rages between the Scott and Barde clans. Weary of the strife along his border, King Robert II decrees a marriage between Laird Eaden Scott and Lord Barde’s daughter, Miriam. But when marriage negotiations fail, Eaden takes matters into his own hands and kidnaps his bride.
Mary Marsh only wanted to help her friend. Sleeping in Miriam’s bed whilst she slipped away for the evening had seemed simple enough—until a stranger enters the chamber in the dead of night, and a misstep lands Mary with more than a bump on her head and a temporary loss of memory.
With no recourse for their accidental marriage, the hardheaded laird and shy lady’s companion must either live in strife or find common ground. Will Eaden be able to convince Mary of his growing love? Or will she find the ghosts of his past too much to bear?
If you enjoy enemies to lovers romance mixed with an arranged marriage and a plot full of twists and turns, you’ll love this second chance romance between a rugged, stubborn Scot and a young woman determined to create something worthwhile out of a doomed marriage.
357 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 27, 2013
494 people are currently reading
402 people want to read
About the author
Cathy MacRae
71 books407 followersAmazon best-selling author Cathy MacRae enjoys weaving tales of romance in the Highland mists. Her stories feature strong heroes and feisty heroines in pursuit of their happy-ever-afters in medieval Scotland.
When not writing, Cathy can be found curled up in a chair with a book or enjoying the outdoors with a German Shepherd or two. She is currently working on another Highland romance novel and planning her next trip to Scotland.
Sign up for her newsletter here: https://www.cathymacraeauthor.com/con...
When not writing, Cathy can be found curled up in a chair with a book or enjoying the outdoors with a German Shepherd or two. She is currently working on another Highland romance novel and planning her next trip to Scotland.
Sign up for her newsletter here: https://www.cathymacraeauthor.com/con...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
January 12, 2017
Wonderful Scottish medieval story. Eaden, Laird Scott, kidnaps Lady Miriam Barde as he has been ordered to marry her to end the feud between their clans. However, when she awakens at his castle she has no memory of who she is. After a quick bedding he's off to see the King and get his lands back.
While he's gone, his bride remembers who she is and it's not Lady Miriam, but her companion, Mary. She doesn't want the marriage but the king insists. I won't ruin the rest of this love story for you. I hope you'll read it. It's a very well written historical romance.
While he's gone, his bride remembers who she is and it's not Lady Miriam, but her companion, Mary. She doesn't want the marriage but the king insists. I won't ruin the rest of this love story for you. I hope you'll read it. It's a very well written historical romance.
November 21, 2018
Enjoyable read
I did enjoy this book. The book stayed true two the story of Mary And Eaden but it felt hard to follow at times. The switching between the important characters in the story was confusing at times. I had to keep track of who was talking. I did love these two and and the rest of the people that lived in Castle Scott. Thank goodness for an HEA
I did enjoy this book. The book stayed true two the story of Mary And Eaden but it felt hard to follow at times. The switching between the important characters in the story was confusing at times. I had to keep track of who was talking. I did love these two and and the rest of the people that lived in Castle Scott. Thank goodness for an HEA
January 21, 2024
3.75 stars
I think I overdosed on the highlanders with forced marriages. This story was an example of the theme, and although I enjoyed it, it didn’t create a spark of originality for me to rate it higher.
I think I overdosed on the highlanders with forced marriages. This story was an example of the theme, and although I enjoyed it, it didn’t create a spark of originality for me to rate it higher.
January 4, 2016
3 1/2
If you look on both Goodreads and Amazon you will find totally different reviews with mixed feeling for this book. I myself enjoyed it.
Spoiler
The mixed feeling is at the start of the book where the heroine wakes up with the loss of memory and is forced to marry a Laird.
Some reader say that he was the one who hit her over the head and rapped her on their wedding night. I myself read this book and didn’t find anywhere where he claims hit her. He says it was unintentional accident but it never says what truly happened. As for the rape again I don’t know what they read but I didn’t take it that way. Of course, she doesn't know him and she is scared because of her memory lost but the Laird is zealous and he makes a bit of a mess out of it to save his people and land and as you're reading about him he really doesn't seem to know how to really treat a lady but he does learn as time goes by. She never told him no, she just said be done with it. There is no real details of the scene and so you can’t just say he rapped her because there is no real detail that there was a rape.
Now, I know some people are touchy about this stuff, so if you are, you might want to stay clear of this book, but if you’re not then go for it. I myself loved how things turned for these two and how they were able to find love with everything going against them and to be that is romance finding love against all odds.
Spoiler stop.
I really enjoyed the story being told by Cathy but the publisher needs better editors. With a good editor they can really execute their stories and this is why my rating is lower.
I recommend this book to the readers that likes more of a bodice ripper novels style book.
If you look on both Goodreads and Amazon you will find totally different reviews with mixed feeling for this book. I myself enjoyed it.
Spoiler
The mixed feeling is at the start of the book where the heroine wakes up with the loss of memory and is forced to marry a Laird.
Some reader say that he was the one who hit her over the head and rapped her on their wedding night. I myself read this book and didn’t find anywhere where he claims hit her. He says it was unintentional accident but it never says what truly happened. As for the rape again I don’t know what they read but I didn’t take it that way. Of course, she doesn't know him and she is scared because of her memory lost but the Laird is zealous and he makes a bit of a mess out of it to save his people and land and as you're reading about him he really doesn't seem to know how to really treat a lady but he does learn as time goes by. She never told him no, she just said be done with it. There is no real details of the scene and so you can’t just say he rapped her because there is no real detail that there was a rape.
Now, I know some people are touchy about this stuff, so if you are, you might want to stay clear of this book, but if you’re not then go for it. I myself loved how things turned for these two and how they were able to find love with everything going against them and to be that is romance finding love against all odds.
Spoiler stop.
I really enjoyed the story being told by Cathy but the publisher needs better editors. With a good editor they can really execute their stories and this is why my rating is lower.
I recommend this book to the readers that likes more of a bodice ripper novels style book.
March 23, 2014
Laird Scott is commanded by the king to marry Lady Miriam Barde to ensure Scott retains possession of his lands. Because of the hesitation of Lady Miriam, Laird Scott kidnaps her. Too bad Scott kidnaps the wrong woman. And marries her. As soon as it discovered, Cathy write of the tangles they try to untangle and the growth of each off them and their relationship. I felt this is wrote very well, with knowledge of the time. She brought the H/h full circle to discover their love that grows between them. I enjoyed everything about this book and would highly recommend it if you enjoy highlander books.
March 24, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Cathy Macrae's characters and descriptions painted a vivid picture of the challenges of living in a Scottish castle in the 17th century when your were more likely to be at war with your neighbors than not. The main characters had a rocky start to their relationship with a kidnapping, forced marriage and confusion over the identity if the bride, but an h.e.a. saved the day.
December 26, 2020
I Loved It! From the first page to the last you will spellbound by The Highlander's Accidental Bride!
Cathy MacRae has woven a story from beginning to end with threads of intrigue, anguish, kidnapping and passion... It's an unforgettable Highland romance that brims with tension-building twists, remarkable emotions, with characters that come off the pages and pull you into their tale, great dialogue and with one fantastic plot! Eaden must marry Lord Barde's daughter by decree of King Robert. What better way to get a stubborn lass to the alter... kidnap her. Mary wakes to find she has lost her memory and must married Eaden, Laird of clan Scott! As Eaden and Mary face off, sparks begin to fly between them as someone from Eaden's past deviously sets out to destroy their marriage. As Eaden and Mary find themselves on a rollercoaster ride of heights of passion swirling down into a vortex of secrets, lies and desperation as the tensions escalates the suspense builds and mayhem abound this story unfolds beautifully with the Magical Highlands paints an incredible backdrop that makes you feel like you are one with the story which brings this read together perfectly.
Cathy MacRae has woven a story from beginning to end with threads of intrigue, anguish, kidnapping and passion... It's an unforgettable Highland romance that brims with tension-building twists, remarkable emotions, with characters that come off the pages and pull you into their tale, great dialogue and with one fantastic plot! Eaden must marry Lord Barde's daughter by decree of King Robert. What better way to get a stubborn lass to the alter... kidnap her. Mary wakes to find she has lost her memory and must married Eaden, Laird of clan Scott! As Eaden and Mary face off, sparks begin to fly between them as someone from Eaden's past deviously sets out to destroy their marriage. As Eaden and Mary find themselves on a rollercoaster ride of heights of passion swirling down into a vortex of secrets, lies and desperation as the tensions escalates the suspense builds and mayhem abound this story unfolds beautifully with the Magical Highlands paints an incredible backdrop that makes you feel like you are one with the story which brings this read together perfectly.
September 4, 2024
I read this thru KU. I was a bit nervous to read this after reading through some of the one-star reviews, but it was okay. The main guy was so unlikeable at the start that it's hard to root for him even after he changes for the better (some things are so bad they are hard to forgive). Also, I did not like the ending much. I felt it was too open for my personal taste (I thought more than a couple things I wanted to know were left unstated). However, this book was the first in series that is otherwise fantastic. You may want to skip this one, but the others are really great and you can enjoy them fully even without the first book.
*****SPOILERS*****
As a final note, some reviewers have said they viewed the main guy's actions in the beginning as rape. While his actions were completely deplorable I'm not sure they were as bad as that as the main girl did give her consent. Had she not given her consent I would never have read past that page.
*****SPOILERS*****
As a final note, some reviewers have said they viewed the main guy's actions in the beginning as rape. While his actions were completely deplorable I'm not sure they were as bad as that as the main girl did give her consent. Had she not given her consent I would never have read past that page.
July 31, 2025
The Highlander’s Accidental Bride features Mary, bride and Eaden, highlander. When the king orders Eaden to marry a woman from another clan, he kidnaps her out of her bed and marries her even though she has no memory. When she realizes she’s not who she’s supposed to be, she’s stuck in a marriage.
This was… strange. It actually started out really well and I was invested, but then it crumbled midway and things began to not make sense. Mary is the most impressionable and gullible and then all of a sudden she knows exactly what is happening around her - figuring it out based on… feelings? I’m not sure. The miscommunication and lack of communication and a weird letter miscommunication was just too much for me.
Overall, fun Scottish historical with no follow through
This was… strange. It actually started out really well and I was invested, but then it crumbled midway and things began to not make sense. Mary is the most impressionable and gullible and then all of a sudden she knows exactly what is happening around her - figuring it out based on… feelings? I’m not sure. The miscommunication and lack of communication and a weird letter miscommunication was just too much for me.
Overall, fun Scottish historical with no follow through
February 6, 2022
It Was Good But... Contains Spoilers
Why are the Heroes so ignorant to leave a former mistress (obsessed one) still at the castle for his bride to contend with? Why does the Heroine end up running off by her self, no food, etc.?Why does the Laird ride off alone in a gallant and foolish attempt to save his wife and almost kills his faithful horse only to be caught (surprise) ? Then he was beaten nearly to death and able to mount a horse and take time (an hour) to kiss his wife all while being pursued by the enemy? And why didn't the king help? It doesn't help the story when the characters behave so. And it's a reoccurring part of a highland romance.
Why are the Heroes so ignorant to leave a former mistress (obsessed one) still at the castle for his bride to contend with? Why does the Heroine end up running off by her self, no food, etc.?Why does the Laird ride off alone in a gallant and foolish attempt to save his wife and almost kills his faithful horse only to be caught (surprise) ? Then he was beaten nearly to death and able to mount a horse and take time (an hour) to kiss his wife all while being pursued by the enemy? And why didn't the king help? It doesn't help the story when the characters behave so. And it's a reoccurring part of a highland romance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2024
This wasn't terrible. I liked the main characters and the situation they're in, but...
It's not as spicy as I'm used to, which is fine. Except...
He basically rapes her in the beginning, to legitimize the marriage. We skip over that, yet it sets the scene for all their problems thereafter. When his ex maliciously tells her she has to be passive and quiet in bed, and he thinks she doesn't like it-- we skip over that as well.
I even understand closing the bedroom door, metaphorically, but we never hear those characters mull over what's going on. We don't hear the advice, like it's a secret plot twist. If so it was handled poorly and did not help the narrative.
It's not as spicy as I'm used to, which is fine. Except...
He basically rapes her in the beginning, to legitimize the marriage. We skip over that, yet it sets the scene for all their problems thereafter. When his ex maliciously tells her she has to be passive and quiet in bed, and he thinks she doesn't like it-- we skip over that as well.
I even understand closing the bedroom door, metaphorically, but we never hear those characters mull over what's going on. We don't hear the advice, like it's a secret plot twist. If so it was handled poorly and did not help the narrative.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2025
I love the Scottish Highlands romance genre. In earlier years, there were quite a few good ones (my favorite is still Ransom by Julie Garwood). I've found that more recent books of this genre range from sub-par to so-so to okay. This one was okay, but definitely not in the same category as Ransom. To me, this one is okay but not one of the best. For one thing, the romantic feelings between the main characters developed very rapidly considering they were complete strangers when she was kidnapped. I know there is love at first sight, but it seemed rushed. There was a bit of intrigue and mystery. It has a HEA.
January 13, 2021
It was a great book. I loved the story line and the romance. The ending was disappointing just because I prefer epilogues and long winded endings and this ending was short and sweet. The book ended on a sour note because of the short ending but it did not hinder the overall book.
February 28, 2018
Another exciting book by this author! ❤⭐❤⭐❤⭐❤⭐❤⭐
This is the second book is this series I have read (read them out of order). This one is just as exciting as the second one. Again I was a nervous wreck waiting to find out what was next. The hero and heroine were wonderful. I loved them both! The HEA was very satisfying.
This is the second book is this series I have read (read them out of order). This one is just as exciting as the second one. Again I was a nervous wreck waiting to find out what was next. The hero and heroine were wonderful. I loved them both! The HEA was very satisfying.
November 30, 2017
Another HEA
An arranged marriage, kidnapping, and a victim of mistaken identity, our damsel definitely needed the mettle and stubbornness she portrays to not only survive but finally realize she’s right where she belongs...(sighs) lol
An arranged marriage, kidnapping, and a victim of mistaken identity, our damsel definitely needed the mettle and stubbornness she portrays to not only survive but finally realize she’s right where she belongs...(sighs) lol
January 8, 2021
Love story with a twist
I enjoyed this story, I found my self falling in to the story, and thinking what I would do. Strong woman and she wants to only be true to herself, but some surprises can change everything
I enjoyed this story, I found my self falling in to the story, and thinking what I would do. Strong woman and she wants to only be true to herself, but some surprises can change everything
June 15, 2022
Good read
Creative, sweet storyline. The main characters come from two clans and the English are added to the mix to antagonize them, but in the end all is well and the clans are joined together.
Creative, sweet storyline. The main characters come from two clans and the English are added to the mix to antagonize them, but in the end all is well and the clans are joined together.
June 12, 2023
3.75 Poor Mary had a rough time of it. I was so happy with how it ended up but I wish we got to see more of her thought process towards the end. It seemed a bit jumpy. This was good but I wished we got more from the cast of characters.
July 28, 2024
More twists and turns than a drunken mules trail.
Sorcha was my favorite, but Mary was a fresh breeze for a heroine. The Laird could have been quicker of wit, which seems to be a trait for all the lairds of this genre.
Sorcha was my favorite, but Mary was a fresh breeze for a heroine. The Laird could have been quicker of wit, which seems to be a trait for all the lairds of this genre.
December 28, 2017
Better than I expected
At first I thought this would be a cheesy romance novel. I was faintly surprised at what a good story it turned out to be.
At first I thought this would be a cheesy romance novel. I was faintly surprised at what a good story it turned out to be.
January 10, 2021
Exciting
I enjoyed reading this story. It give everything, suspense, anger, a twisted plot that takes you over that Pentacle of hope for them to finally find love.
I enjoyed reading this story. It give everything, suspense, anger, a twisted plot that takes you over that Pentacle of hope for them to finally find love.
January 31, 2022
Great historical romance
This was a good story. Scotland went through a rough years and marriage kept the families together. I will read the next soon.
This was a good story. Scotland went through a rough years and marriage kept the families together. I will read the next soon.
May 17, 2022
I loved this book! Fantastic story and super exciting! I am thrilled I bought this whole series! Can’t wait to read the next one!
January 31, 2023
Extraordinary story, worth a reread!!
Read
March 22, 2023Very good book. Really enjoyed it
More please
More please
November 6, 2023
Great Ending
It’s very very good as you get to the ending , but not enough happening with the story line before that .
It’s very very good as you get to the ending , but not enough happening with the story line before that .
February 24, 2024
Cute! Not much spice, but def not bad. It was a little hard to read through all the Scottish dialect, but still nothing too bad. But this is def not my usual trope/setting lol.
March 26, 2025
lovely read!
It was a lovely read from beginning to end. The twist was surprising and had me tearing at times! Can’t wait to read the next story!
It was a lovely read from beginning to end. The twist was surprising and had me tearing at times! Can’t wait to read the next story!
November 17, 2025
A quick read. Gothic romance: kidnapping, marriage, happy ending, medieval Scotland
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews