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Highlander #1
The Highlander's Sword
A quiet, flame-haired beauty with secrets of her own...
Lady Aila Graham is destined for the convent, until her brother's death leaves her an heiress. Soon she is caught between hastily arranged marriage with a Highland warrior, the Abbot's insistence that she take her vows, the Scottish Laird who kidnaps her, and the traitor from within who betrays them all.
She's nothing he expected and everything he really needs...
Padyn MacLaren, a battled-hardened knight, returns home to the Highlands after years of fighting the English in France. MacLaren bears the physical scars of battle, but it is the deeper wounds of betrayal that have rocked his faith. Arriving with only a band of war-weary knights, MacLaren finds his land pillaged and his clan scattered. Determined to restore his clan, he sees Aila's fortune as the answer to his problems...but maybe it's the woman herself.
Lady Aila Graham is destined for the convent, until her brother's death leaves her an heiress. Soon she is caught between hastily arranged marriage with a Highland warrior, the Abbot's insistence that she take her vows, the Scottish Laird who kidnaps her, and the traitor from within who betrays them all.
She's nothing he expected and everything he really needs...
Padyn MacLaren, a battled-hardened knight, returns home to the Highlands after years of fighting the English in France. MacLaren bears the physical scars of battle, but it is the deeper wounds of betrayal that have rocked his faith. Arriving with only a band of war-weary knights, MacLaren finds his land pillaged and his clan scattered. Determined to restore his clan, he sees Aila's fortune as the answer to his problems...but maybe it's the woman herself.
354 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2010
183 people are currently reading
1439 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Forester
21 books328 followersAmanda Forester holds a PhD in clinical psychology and a Masters degree in theology. As a psychologist, she has worked as a clinical researcher and a university instructor (what they call you when they don’t want to give you tenure). None of which has anything to do with writing romance novels. After trying for many years to stop the internal storylines floating around her head, she finally gave up and wrote one down. Now when she is caught daydreaming and talking to herself she can just say, “I’m plotting a scene for my next novel,” which sounds so much better than, “I’m hallucinating and responding to internal stimuli.”
Amanda lives in the Pacific Northwest with her officer and a gentleman husband and their two remarkably active, naturally brilliant children. They share their home with two fiendishly destructive cats and one lazy dog.
The Highlander’s Series represents Amanda's first venture into writing historical fiction, so she would greatly enjoy hearing from readers.
Amanda lives in the Pacific Northwest with her officer and a gentleman husband and their two remarkably active, naturally brilliant children. They share their home with two fiendishly destructive cats and one lazy dog.
The Highlander’s Series represents Amanda's first venture into writing historical fiction, so she would greatly enjoy hearing from readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
December 15, 2024
2024'ün son kitabı olarak uzun zamandır okumadığım tarihi-romantik bir kitap okuyarak bitirmek istedim. Kitap, serinin ilk kitabı olduğu için giriş niteliğindeydi. Aşktan ziyade daha çok kurgulanan evreni okuduk. Çok bayılmadım ama yine de keyifliydi.
April 17, 2010
Lady Aila Graham is shocked when her father arranges for her to marry a stranger, Padyn MacLaren. Aila had been trained her whole life to become a nun, so she's unprepared to be any one's wife. Padyn and Aila's sudden marriage is only the first in a string of fast-paced adventures they have together, including kidnapping, a besieged castle, a secret passageway, and many high speed chases on horseback. Among their many adventures, the two find themselves falling in love.
I really enjoyed this highland story, the action was non-stop! I'm surprised by how much I liked the book because the romance really wasn't the strongest part of the story.
I loved the character Chaumont, the French knight who was Padyn's sidekick. He really made the book entertaining for me, he stole the show! I liked Chaumont a lot better than Padyn, and I was hoping he would get his book, but that seems unlikely. Chaumont was always quick to make light of the situation, but later, we find out why he acts this way. A few times, I thought Chaumont acted more admirably than Padyn, even towards Aila.
I loved Aila's character too. She was a strong, intelligent woman who could take care of herself-especially on horseback! She was independent and took risks often. However, she admitted her mistakes also.
Unfortunately, the romance was a little lacking and seemed awkward at times. The love scenes, especially, were uncomfortable, and somewhat immature. There were long periods of time when the couple were separated and even towards the end, Aila had to ask others what her husband was like because she didn't know him well enough. The romantic gestures between the two of them didn't really flow and felt uncomfortable.
There was a Christian theme in the book which was unusual for this type of romance, but I think it fit well, especially since Aila studied to be a nun. In no way is the religious theme overbearing.
Overall, I recommend this book to fans of highland romance because it's a lot of fun and action packed. Too bad Chaumont isn't the star of the story though, and he's relegated to second banana. Chaumont alone is worth picking up this book!
I won this book in a contest and it was provided to me by Sourcebooks.
reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com/
I really enjoyed this highland story, the action was non-stop! I'm surprised by how much I liked the book because the romance really wasn't the strongest part of the story.
I loved the character Chaumont, the French knight who was Padyn's sidekick. He really made the book entertaining for me, he stole the show! I liked Chaumont a lot better than Padyn, and I was hoping he would get his book, but that seems unlikely. Chaumont was always quick to make light of the situation, but later, we find out why he acts this way. A few times, I thought Chaumont acted more admirably than Padyn, even towards Aila.
I loved Aila's character too. She was a strong, intelligent woman who could take care of herself-especially on horseback! She was independent and took risks often. However, she admitted her mistakes also.
Unfortunately, the romance was a little lacking and seemed awkward at times. The love scenes, especially, were uncomfortable, and somewhat immature. There were long periods of time when the couple were separated and even towards the end, Aila had to ask others what her husband was like because she didn't know him well enough. The romantic gestures between the two of them didn't really flow and felt uncomfortable.
There was a Christian theme in the book which was unusual for this type of romance, but I think it fit well, especially since Aila studied to be a nun. In no way is the religious theme overbearing.
Overall, I recommend this book to fans of highland romance because it's a lot of fun and action packed. Too bad Chaumont isn't the star of the story though, and he's relegated to second banana. Chaumont alone is worth picking up this book!
I won this book in a contest and it was provided to me by Sourcebooks.
reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com/
August 12, 2010
Ah, the brooding misunderstood Highlander and the well-dowered damsel in distress. As much as I wanted to enjoy this book, I could not. It started out really well, but then Lady Aila runs away to the convent and it was pretty much down hill from there for me. The story was too predictable and I did not like Aila or Padyn. I know this is a romance book and all of that, but these two were exasperating to read about. Padyn sees Aila looking like a nun and thinks that he probably can't trust her because she's a woman. She will use her beauty to dazzle him. Aila, although very adept at being chatelaine of the castle, runs and hides at the convent because she is super confused and doesn't know what to do. Aila seems weak at times, but then does a bold thing. It's like I couldn't get a read on these two. Both Padyn and Aila have these flashes of brilliance I liked, then they would do something silly, and I would be disappointed.
I did like the secondary characters of Chaumont and Aila's father Graham. Chaumont provided snarky commentary and Graham was the laird of his clan I expected him to be. The details about dress, the countryside, and the castle were interesting. The overall feel of the story was definitely Scottish.
I'm not exactly sure why I had this reaction to the book. Maybe I like my female characters to have stronger personalities. Maybe this type of romance wasn't for me, even though I have read Scottish romances before. Whatever the case may be, don't let my dissatisfaction totally sway you. Other bloggers have read this book and enjoyed it.
Amanda, I'm sorry I didn't like your book but if you write featuring Chaumont as the lead, I'm there!
I did like the secondary characters of Chaumont and Aila's father Graham. Chaumont provided snarky commentary and Graham was the laird of his clan I expected him to be. The details about dress, the countryside, and the castle were interesting. The overall feel of the story was definitely Scottish.
I'm not exactly sure why I had this reaction to the book. Maybe I like my female characters to have stronger personalities. Maybe this type of romance wasn't for me, even though I have read Scottish romances before. Whatever the case may be, don't let my dissatisfaction totally sway you. Other bloggers have read this book and enjoyed it.
Amanda, I'm sorry I didn't like your book but if you write featuring Chaumont as the lead, I'm there!
July 25, 2023
Upon reread, I am upping to 5 stars. This is such a well-written debut! I am happy I decided to read this series again this year.
Amanda Forester is a woman after my own heart. I think you either like her writing or not. I love how she incorporated Bible verses into the story. I like that her heroes are not manwhores. I loved Aila. She was the right balance of strong-willed and brave while also respectful and loyal. However, I have read many others who did not care for the book as much as I did. To each his own. For me, on to book two!
Amanda Forester is a woman after my own heart. I think you either like her writing or not. I love how she incorporated Bible verses into the story. I like that her heroes are not manwhores. I loved Aila. She was the right balance of strong-willed and brave while also respectful and loyal. However, I have read many others who did not care for the book as much as I did. To each his own. For me, on to book two!
June 21, 2018
Birbirini dinlemeyen, herkesin kendi kafasına göre olaylardan sonuç çıkarıp hareket ettiği; laf kalabalığından öteye geçmeyen bir kitaptı.
İletişimsizlik, nefret ettiğim bir nokta. Kitap bunun dibini görmüştü.
Üzülerek söylüyorum; kâğıt israfı olmuş. Bir sürü güzel historical yazarı dururken, hepsinden önemlisi bir sürü mükemmel Scottish-man yazan yazar varken gidip bunu basmak neyin kafasıdır, sorarlar adama.
Şu vakitsizliğimin içinde buna ayırdığım vakte oturup bir an üzüldüm.
İletişimsizlik, nefret ettiğim bir nokta. Kitap bunun dibini görmüştü.
Üzülerek söylüyorum; kâğıt israfı olmuş. Bir sürü güzel historical yazarı dururken, hepsinden önemlisi bir sürü mükemmel Scottish-man yazan yazar varken gidip bunu basmak neyin kafasıdır, sorarlar adama.
Şu vakitsizliğimin içinde buna ayırdığım vakte oturup bir an üzüldüm.
May 8, 2011
There were a lot of biblical scripture quotes throughout this book which I am certainly not accustomed to in "Highlander" books. I will also add that there was no "heat" exhibited between the main characters. I'm adding these comments for those who are hard core "Highlander" book readers, like myself, who expect certain elements. However, this is in no way disparaging of the book. It was well written, the characters were fully developed and the story was enjoyable. I thought it was important to point out certain things, i.e., the religious overtones, because this is not something I would be interested in and would not have purchased the book knowing those elements were present. That is just me and my personal tastes when reading my favorite "Highlander" books and something I would have appreciated knowing.
November 29, 2012
I hated that the main characters didn't interact until practically the end of the book. I liked the characters themselves, but the plot was the same old same old....It was like reading a long episode of Three's Company. One misunderstanding after another. Gah! The pages and pages of scripture also made me feel squidgy. I couldn't tell if it was a religious novel or a romance or a dark comedy. Probably won't read any more from this author. Boring.
March 30, 2016
Ok read with occasional highlights. probably won't read again. Some skimming helped me finish the book.
February 3, 2010
The Highlander's Sword by Amanda Forester is a surprisingly radiant gem from a debut author. If you love stories of Highlander's then you will most certainly love this.
Lady Aila Graham has her heart set on being a nun because of her mother drumming this into her since she was but a wee bairn. She has been a loyal daughter to both parents even though there is a rift between her mother and father. Unfortunately now, Aila is caught between the two and can only do what her father tells her no matter how furious her mother will be with the results of her obedience. Hmm...or should I say disobedience or even perhaps both. Arg, talk about being between a rock and a hard place.
Padyn MacLaren has returned from France a knight and is very happy to be home even though what is left of his clan and homeland is mostly in ruins. As Laird to his clan it is up to him to rebuild, strengthen and expand to secure the future of all his people. Upon receiving a missive from the Laird Graham, Padyn sees a future that not only looks promising by doing what he needs for his clan but also it leaves him feeling like a trapped mouse awaiting it's death.
The story is quick paced and quite a wonderful surprise from a debut author. The sentences and paragraphs flow so smoothly that it takes every ounce of will power to put this book down before going googly eyed from fatigue. Let me tell you that this is such a wonderful story that it invaded my dreams making me long for a highlander of my own.
The author has done a better than superb job at giving us a wonderful romp through the Highlands of Scotland with lots of action, misunderstanding's, deceit, frustration, longings, love and the promise of what is in store for those with the patience of a Saint. If you like a lighthearted tale of adventure and a hero and heroine that give off enough friction to ignite a campfire from fifty paces away, then you most assuredly love this novel.
Lady Aila Graham has her heart set on being a nun because of her mother drumming this into her since she was but a wee bairn. She has been a loyal daughter to both parents even though there is a rift between her mother and father. Unfortunately now, Aila is caught between the two and can only do what her father tells her no matter how furious her mother will be with the results of her obedience. Hmm...or should I say disobedience or even perhaps both. Arg, talk about being between a rock and a hard place.
Padyn MacLaren has returned from France a knight and is very happy to be home even though what is left of his clan and homeland is mostly in ruins. As Laird to his clan it is up to him to rebuild, strengthen and expand to secure the future of all his people. Upon receiving a missive from the Laird Graham, Padyn sees a future that not only looks promising by doing what he needs for his clan but also it leaves him feeling like a trapped mouse awaiting it's death.
The story is quick paced and quite a wonderful surprise from a debut author. The sentences and paragraphs flow so smoothly that it takes every ounce of will power to put this book down before going googly eyed from fatigue. Let me tell you that this is such a wonderful story that it invaded my dreams making me long for a highlander of my own.
The author has done a better than superb job at giving us a wonderful romp through the Highlands of Scotland with lots of action, misunderstanding's, deceit, frustration, longings, love and the promise of what is in store for those with the patience of a Saint. If you like a lighthearted tale of adventure and a hero and heroine that give off enough friction to ignite a campfire from fifty paces away, then you most assuredly love this novel.
February 27, 2011
I thought this was a fun, sexy, suspenseful story and I devoured it in less than 8-hours time. Padyn MacLaren is all wounded alpha male, with a scar and long-ass sword to boot (hehe). Lady Aila Graham is unique and likable--educated, her secret pre-dawn horse rides the source of neighborhood ghost stories that Robert the Bruce rides among the Highlands still, and she's the fastest damn horseman of ANY character in the book. I love that every man she rides with eats her dust. Many of the secondary characters were also likable and well developed--Chaumont the Frenchman was total win and offered so much perfectly timed comic relief, Aila's parents were compelling and had their own interesting subplot, and there are bad guys and schemes galore. You might get a little frustrated (right alongside Padyn and Aila) with the number of times they are, er, ----blocked from consummating their marriage, but I thought it was often cute and upped the sexual tension between them, such that by the time they finally dewww eeet he's nearly in tears to get all those pesky layers of medieval garb off his fine warrior bum.
I can't say enough about this story. I found it hugely entertaining and romantic, and it left me wanting more. Highly recommmend!
I can't say enough about this story. I found it hugely entertaining and romantic, and it left me wanting more. Highly recommmend!
July 5, 2013
I had no idea when I bought this that this would be sweet Christian fiction. It was refreshing, really, to be able to read a whole story that didn't revolve around heavy breathing. I'm no prude but I really prefer a story that can keep the reader's interest without resorting to that every five pages. And this one does it pretty well, with a few little nit-picky exceptions.
Padyn MacLaren was in France, fighting the English when he met and fell in love with the lovely Countess Marguerite. The witch betrayed him, but not before his cousin died in a fight to defend her lands. So like all angst-ridden heroes of romantic lore, he's determined never to like or trust another woman.
Aila Graham, is the only surviving child of the Graham laird. As a child she was promised to the convent, and her plan is to take care of her mother (who has something like a bad case of rheumatoid arthritis) until she passes, then take her vows. Because her mother had ambitions for her in the convent, Aila has been educated—she can read and speak Latin and not a few other languages, and she knows her Scriptures.
What she doesn't know is that because she IS the only surviving child, her importance to her family has radically shifted. So when her father calls for her to attend him (rare enough), then tells her she's marrying MacLaren—right now—she's a bit
Everything she's expected of her life is on its head in a second. Either she defy her volatile father, a truly daunting—and immediately threatening—proposition, or she break the promises she made to the church. On one hand, before she understood that "'nun' meant 'no men,'" (this cutie comes from the author), she kinda crushed on MacLaren, who was a friend of her late brother. On the other hand, he's not giving her much reason to think the feeling's mutual—in fact he's giving her the cold shoulder.
Another thing she doesn't know is that all the odd mishaps that have been happening are intentional. Someone's been burning the crops. Someone attacked the stable master and left him badly injured. Someone means to bring her father to his knees—and use her to do it. This marriage with MacLaren isn't in the plan.
Between the emotional issues—MacLaren's distrust, Aila's fears—and the betrayals, sabotages, and other mishaps, the story is a grand adventure.
The author goes to some effort to make the story authentic in some ways. Like she makes sure we know that Aila is uncommonly educated, so it makes sense she would know the Bible. And we always get the verses first in Latin first (even tho 99.9% of us are going to scowl at that paragraph and jump to the translation), because the Church frowned on translation into common language in those days. Lots of nice little details that were factual for the time (the story of King David, for example).
In other words, there's lots to like about this story, and I'm going to recommend it.
Still and all, there were a few nits to pick. Like (and this bugged me) we see the hero get his face sliced open and then take a swim through a moat that was more of a sewer (because remember where the privies flushed to in those days), then (without any apparent effort to clean the wound) being stitched closed. But there's not even a mention of the risk of infection. Granted, they didn't know any better at the time, and these were, after all, guys. But even so, I'd think it would just be natural to want to clean the poo out of a gaping wound before stitching it closed. And, while I did find the dearth of "heavy breathing" scenes refreshing, I felt a little manipulated (teased) by all the near-misses and the "hurry up and consummate before the bad guys win." When they finally did it, the author's efforts to avoid the graphic details got a little silly.
So OK , I'm giving this 4 stars, mostly because I'm allowing some leeway for the strictures of the "Christian market." But, as a Christian reader, I think that the strictures are dumb. If the standards set for Christian fiction were applied to the Bible, whole, lengthy passages would be censored (indeed, modern translators do actually clean up GOD's language in a spots—I personally think that is almost the definition of hubris). Anyway, if the author could've told her story without having to worry about readers who would get the bends at the first hint of "s.e.x," this could've bypassed a few spots where my eyes rolled a little.
Padyn MacLaren was in France, fighting the English when he met and fell in love with the lovely Countess Marguerite. The witch betrayed him, but not before his cousin died in a fight to defend her lands. So like all angst-ridden heroes of romantic lore, he's determined never to like or trust another woman.
Aila Graham, is the only surviving child of the Graham laird. As a child she was promised to the convent, and her plan is to take care of her mother (who has something like a bad case of rheumatoid arthritis) until she passes, then take her vows. Because her mother had ambitions for her in the convent, Aila has been educated—she can read and speak Latin and not a few other languages, and she knows her Scriptures.
What she doesn't know is that because she IS the only surviving child, her importance to her family has radically shifted. So when her father calls for her to attend him (rare enough), then tells her she's marrying MacLaren—right now—she's a bit
Everything she's expected of her life is on its head in a second. Either she defy her volatile father, a truly daunting—and immediately threatening—proposition, or she break the promises she made to the church. On one hand, before she understood that "'nun' meant 'no men,'" (this cutie comes from the author), she kinda crushed on MacLaren, who was a friend of her late brother. On the other hand, he's not giving her much reason to think the feeling's mutual—in fact he's giving her the cold shoulder.
Another thing she doesn't know is that all the odd mishaps that have been happening are intentional. Someone's been burning the crops. Someone attacked the stable master and left him badly injured. Someone means to bring her father to his knees—and use her to do it. This marriage with MacLaren isn't in the plan.
Between the emotional issues—MacLaren's distrust, Aila's fears—and the betrayals, sabotages, and other mishaps, the story is a grand adventure.
The author goes to some effort to make the story authentic in some ways. Like she makes sure we know that Aila is uncommonly educated, so it makes sense she would know the Bible. And we always get the verses first in Latin first (even tho 99.9% of us are going to scowl at that paragraph and jump to the translation), because the Church frowned on translation into common language in those days. Lots of nice little details that were factual for the time (the story of King David, for example).
In other words, there's lots to like about this story, and I'm going to recommend it.
Still and all, there were a few nits to pick. Like (and this bugged me) we see the hero get his face sliced open and then take a swim through a moat that was more of a sewer (because remember where the privies flushed to in those days), then (without any apparent effort to clean the wound) being stitched closed. But there's not even a mention of the risk of infection. Granted, they didn't know any better at the time, and these were, after all, guys. But even so, I'd think it would just be natural to want to clean the poo out of a gaping wound before stitching it closed. And, while I did find the dearth of "heavy breathing" scenes refreshing, I felt a little manipulated (teased) by all the near-misses and the "hurry up and consummate before the bad guys win." When they finally did it, the author's efforts to avoid the graphic details got a little silly.
So OK , I'm giving this 4 stars, mostly because I'm allowing some leeway for the strictures of the "Christian market." But, as a Christian reader, I think that the strictures are dumb. If the standards set for Christian fiction were applied to the Bible, whole, lengthy passages would be censored (indeed, modern translators do actually clean up GOD's language in a spots—I personally think that is almost the definition of hubris). Anyway, if the author could've told her story without having to worry about readers who would get the bends at the first hint of "s.e.x," this could've bypassed a few spots where my eyes rolled a little.
February 7, 2010
Amanda Forester tells a gripping tale of love, betrayal, and redemption in the beautiful highlands of Scotland.
Sir Padyn MacLaren left Scotland a young lad to fight with the French against the English.
Betrayed by his fiancee and forced to kill her lover, he flees back to Scotland with a a vow to never trust a woman again.
Lady Aila Graham has been groomed since birth to enter the convent.
When her father summons her she is shocked to learn that he has promised her hand in marriage for the security of their clan to MacLaren.
Aila and Padyn get off to to a rocky start with a misunderstanding on their wedding night that disintegrates quickly into heartache with the help of others.
Aila, not understanding what she has done wrong ,sets to rectify the situation. But Padyn, due to his mistrust of woman, believes the worse of her.
She is kidnapped by a spurned suitor and Padyn is convinced she left him.
Aila frees herself (you go girl) but has to convince Padyn that she has not betrayed him.
Once the whole story comes out, Aila and Padyn realize that their is a traitor in their clan and work together to root him out. Along the way they find love and hope for happiness.
I enjoyed this story. Set in the 1300's, you are transported mid evil Scotland without pages of boring historical facts and lectures.
I liked the fact that while Aila is a proper lady for the times, she has a stubborn independent streak and a good sense of human that makes her interesting.
When Padyn accuses Aila of being a traitor she decides she's going home.
"Hold there!" "What do ye ken ye're doing?" demanded Padyn
"I am returning to Dundaff." she said defiantly
"Get off that horse now. I'll no' have yr running away again."
"I'm no' running away. I told ye where I go.You can go where e'er it suits ye, but I'll be taking myself home now."
On the same note, while Padyn proves to be your dye in the wool warrior who sleeps, eats and pees with the sword, he is willing to listen to Aila and open his heart to her.
In trying to ease Aila, Padyn asks about her faith. Aila answers that verses pop into her mind and she believes those are from God.
"Do ye have any verses in mind now?" asked MacLaren asked softly
"Well, I'm no' sure these verses are from God. They may be naught but my own thoughts."
"What is the verse?"
"Tis from Solmon's Song of Songs. It translates to something like, 'Let him kiss me with kisses of his mouth-for your love is more delightful than wine.'"
"Well." MacLaren smiled with surprise. "God's will be done."
Supporting characters are well thought out and descriptive; bringing depth and a touch of reality to the story.
There is some comic relief; such as Padyn's second in command-Charmount. A french man who seems to have a savor fair attitude towards life but helps out Padyn and Aila's romance as best he can.
In one scene Aila has been reunited with Padyn after escaping her kidnapper. Padyn is trying to consummate their marriage in the middle of a field surrounded by his warriors. Aila is rightfully embarrassed and yells, "Nay."
Paryn begs her not to refuse him saying everyone is asleep.
Charmount announces he's not asleep and this starts a loud debate between the men as the whether a woman should submit to her husband or if a husband be more respectful of his wife then to take her in the hearing of some 50 plus men.
One man comments that's it been awhile for his Padyn and maybe he's "out of practice". The whole scene had me laughing out loud.
Aila's father Graham is gruff and grizzy but you are able to see his love for his daughter and knows what he does is to protect her. Aila's mother is a spoiled vain woman but redeems herself in the end.
The villain of the story was well thought out and properly dastardly. :) Well hidden too because it took me almost to the end to figure it out.
There were some juicy foreplay going on, but you more or less had to imagine the smex scenes. Thank god I have an over active imagination. More descriptions next time please. :)
Most historical romances have a similar love lost thru misunderstandings then regained theme; the flow and ebb of this story holds you enchanted till the last page.
I give it 3.5 stars :)
Sir Padyn MacLaren left Scotland a young lad to fight with the French against the English.
Betrayed by his fiancee and forced to kill her lover, he flees back to Scotland with a a vow to never trust a woman again.
Lady Aila Graham has been groomed since birth to enter the convent.
When her father summons her she is shocked to learn that he has promised her hand in marriage for the security of their clan to MacLaren.
Aila and Padyn get off to to a rocky start with a misunderstanding on their wedding night that disintegrates quickly into heartache with the help of others.
Aila, not understanding what she has done wrong ,sets to rectify the situation. But Padyn, due to his mistrust of woman, believes the worse of her.
She is kidnapped by a spurned suitor and Padyn is convinced she left him.
Aila frees herself (you go girl) but has to convince Padyn that she has not betrayed him.
Once the whole story comes out, Aila and Padyn realize that their is a traitor in their clan and work together to root him out. Along the way they find love and hope for happiness.
I enjoyed this story. Set in the 1300's, you are transported mid evil Scotland without pages of boring historical facts and lectures.
I liked the fact that while Aila is a proper lady for the times, she has a stubborn independent streak and a good sense of human that makes her interesting.
When Padyn accuses Aila of being a traitor she decides she's going home.
"Hold there!" "What do ye ken ye're doing?" demanded Padyn
"I am returning to Dundaff." she said defiantly
"Get off that horse now. I'll no' have yr running away again."
"I'm no' running away. I told ye where I go.You can go where e'er it suits ye, but I'll be taking myself home now."
On the same note, while Padyn proves to be your dye in the wool warrior who sleeps, eats and pees with the sword, he is willing to listen to Aila and open his heart to her.
In trying to ease Aila, Padyn asks about her faith. Aila answers that verses pop into her mind and she believes those are from God.
"Do ye have any verses in mind now?" asked MacLaren asked softly
"Well, I'm no' sure these verses are from God. They may be naught but my own thoughts."
"What is the verse?"
"Tis from Solmon's Song of Songs. It translates to something like, 'Let him kiss me with kisses of his mouth-for your love is more delightful than wine.'"
"Well." MacLaren smiled with surprise. "God's will be done."
Supporting characters are well thought out and descriptive; bringing depth and a touch of reality to the story.
There is some comic relief; such as Padyn's second in command-Charmount. A french man who seems to have a savor fair attitude towards life but helps out Padyn and Aila's romance as best he can.
In one scene Aila has been reunited with Padyn after escaping her kidnapper. Padyn is trying to consummate their marriage in the middle of a field surrounded by his warriors. Aila is rightfully embarrassed and yells, "Nay."
Paryn begs her not to refuse him saying everyone is asleep.
Charmount announces he's not asleep and this starts a loud debate between the men as the whether a woman should submit to her husband or if a husband be more respectful of his wife then to take her in the hearing of some 50 plus men.
One man comments that's it been awhile for his Padyn and maybe he's "out of practice". The whole scene had me laughing out loud.
Aila's father Graham is gruff and grizzy but you are able to see his love for his daughter and knows what he does is to protect her. Aila's mother is a spoiled vain woman but redeems herself in the end.
The villain of the story was well thought out and properly dastardly. :) Well hidden too because it took me almost to the end to figure it out.
There were some juicy foreplay going on, but you more or less had to imagine the smex scenes. Thank god I have an over active imagination. More descriptions next time please. :)
Most historical romances have a similar love lost thru misunderstandings then regained theme; the flow and ebb of this story holds you enchanted till the last page.
I give it 3.5 stars :)
July 18, 2010
I don't spend much time in the mainstream romance aisle of Barnes and Noble, so if I hadn't read author Amanda Forester's guest post at the Seekerville blog I might have missed this gem completely.
Lady Aila Graham's future is laid out for her. She will care for her ailing mother until she passes, then join the convent and devote her life to God. But when her father unexpectedly marries her off to Scottish Laird, Padyn MacLaren, Aila must trust that God will not leave her or forsake her. It's a good thing she has her faith to hold onto, because getting married was just the beginning of a very bumpy ride. She still needs to escape from a kidnapper, help prevent the siege of her land, and thaw the heart of her new husband.
Forester crafted a rich setting, filled it with likable, well rounded characters and threw them into an adventure that I couldn't put down. I loved the banter between MacLaren and his right hand man, Chaumont, a French knight with a spotty heritage. Chaumont nearly stole the show as my favorite character (in my head his name was Charmant, French for charming).
This book is saucier than an inspirational romance (the genre I normally read), and the message of faith is more subtle, but this book holds crossover appeal and fans of edgy inspirational will not be disappointed. Although it is a mainstream romance, there is no explicit sex (eventually the hero and heroine do get to "know" each other but it is described tastefully using pretty general terms) and there is only an occasional crude word (there are a few arses and the hero confuses his manhood with a rooster once).
All things considered, I highly encourage fans of edgy inspirational fiction to give this mainstream romance a try.
Lady Aila Graham's future is laid out for her. She will care for her ailing mother until she passes, then join the convent and devote her life to God. But when her father unexpectedly marries her off to Scottish Laird, Padyn MacLaren, Aila must trust that God will not leave her or forsake her. It's a good thing she has her faith to hold onto, because getting married was just the beginning of a very bumpy ride. She still needs to escape from a kidnapper, help prevent the siege of her land, and thaw the heart of her new husband.
Forester crafted a rich setting, filled it with likable, well rounded characters and threw them into an adventure that I couldn't put down. I loved the banter between MacLaren and his right hand man, Chaumont, a French knight with a spotty heritage. Chaumont nearly stole the show as my favorite character (in my head his name was Charmant, French for charming).
This book is saucier than an inspirational romance (the genre I normally read), and the message of faith is more subtle, but this book holds crossover appeal and fans of edgy inspirational will not be disappointed. Although it is a mainstream romance, there is no explicit sex (eventually the hero and heroine do get to "know" each other but it is described tastefully using pretty general terms) and there is only an occasional crude word (there are a few arses and the hero confuses his manhood with a rooster once).
All things considered, I highly encourage fans of edgy inspirational fiction to give this mainstream romance a try.
November 17, 2015
2.5 stars
This book wasn't horrible, but there were some huge problems with me. The main one being, the H/H hardly spend any time together in the book. They don't talk; they kiss like twice and at the very end they have sex but it's hardly a sex "scene". This whole book takes place over five days and between them hardly talking or seeing each other, they claim everlasting love. *rolls eyes* This felt more like a historical fiction novel with a very small side of romance.
The only character I cared about was Chaumont. MacLaren and Aila were just okay for me. Aila was a tad too timid and....well, boring. She never stood up for herself. MacLaren was a little bit better, but there were times where he was a thick headed asshat. He was always comparing Aila to his ex-fiance. It got to a point where she could be combing her hair or picking berries, and he would instantly think she is just like every other woman, "Rotten to the core" (direct quote from MacLaren). Needless to say, it got pretty repetitive and annoying. Not only that but he ran hot and cold so fast. I have bipolar, and I don't give my family that much of emotional whiplash. Jeez.
It kept me reading because I was interested in the plot, and by Chaumont. But during the last chapter or two it wound down and was pretty anti-climactic. There weren't any surprises or revelations, which considering there are a few mysteries in this book, sucks. The writing wasn't bad, but the characters and plot could have used work.
This book wasn't horrible, but there were some huge problems with me. The main one being, the H/H hardly spend any time together in the book. They don't talk; they kiss like twice and at the very end they have sex but it's hardly a sex "scene". This whole book takes place over five days and between them hardly talking or seeing each other, they claim everlasting love. *rolls eyes* This felt more like a historical fiction novel with a very small side of romance.
The only character I cared about was Chaumont. MacLaren and Aila were just okay for me. Aila was a tad too timid and....well, boring. She never stood up for herself. MacLaren was a little bit better, but there were times where he was a thick headed asshat. He was always comparing Aila to his ex-fiance. It got to a point where she could be combing her hair or picking berries, and he would instantly think she is just like every other woman, "Rotten to the core" (direct quote from MacLaren). Needless to say, it got pretty repetitive and annoying. Not only that but he ran hot and cold so fast. I have bipolar, and I don't give my family that much of emotional whiplash. Jeez.
It kept me reading because I was interested in the plot, and by Chaumont. But during the last chapter or two it wound down and was pretty anti-climactic. There weren't any surprises or revelations, which considering there are a few mysteries in this book, sucks. The writing wasn't bad, but the characters and plot could have used work.
August 8, 2016
Kaçırılma olayından sonra Dundaff'e dönüş kısmına gelene dek kitabı oldukça beğenmiş, hatta insanların neden kitabı bu kadar sevmediğini anlayamamıştım. Ondan sonra her şey saçmalaşmaya başladı. Moira Graham'ın hastalığı yüzünden kocasından 15 sene boyunca - 15! - uzak durabilmesi çok saçmaydı. Üstelik birbirlerini severken. Hadi kadını geçtim ama kocası nasıl olur da çok sevdiği karısının bir gün yanına gelmez, bir gün hatrını sormaz. Padyn ve "bütün kadınlar haindir" konusuna gelecek olursak, tamam sevdiği kadının ihaneti onu temkinli olmaya iter de bu kadar basit bir nedenden bütün kadınlardan uzak durması -hele ki annesi ve kuzeninin karısı gibi çok sevdiği kadınlar varken- saçmalıktı. "Ama sen kadınsın." gibi cümleler kurduğu her an saçlarımı yolasım geldi. Moira ve Padyn'in pazarlık sahnesine gelirsek... Neyin pazarlığını yaptılar? Padyn ne dedi de Moira bir anda fikrini değiştirdi? Bu kısım biraz havada kalmıştı. Bir de Moira'nın kızını rahibe olmaya yönlendirme olayı var. Moira mutlu bir evliliği varken kızına neden erkeklerin çocuklar ve hayvanları arzulayan iğrenç yaratıklar olduğunu ve bu yüzden evlenmemesi gerektiğini söyledi? Kızının yanında kalması için olsa onu manastıra da yollamak istemezdi.
Kısacası kitap bana göre bir yerden sonra aceleye getirilip üstünde çok düşünülmemiş gibiydi.
Kısacası kitap bana göre bir yerden sonra aceleye getirilip üstünde çok düşünülmemiş gibiydi.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 17, 2012
This is like other highlander romances but I love it no less. Unlike other novels, I did not realize the traitor until he was revealed. And I enjoyed the added pressure from the church at the end.
I do notice how half the book, the characters are apart, but that just emphasizes and facilitates their miscommunications. After all, lack of communication, as seen here, tends to be the number one problem in real life relationships; maybe readers can be warned against it.
The epilogue was my favorite part.
I do notice how half the book, the characters are apart, but that just emphasizes and facilitates their miscommunications. After all, lack of communication, as seen here, tends to be the number one problem in real life relationships; maybe readers can be warned against it.
The epilogue was my favorite part.
December 21, 2012
Bitti ama nasıl bitti bir ben bilirim birde Allah:)Biraz ondan biraz bundan alınıp ortaya bir karışık sunulmaz.Beğenmedim malesef.Umarım serinin diğer kitapları daha iyidir.
Not:
Burada mı?
Burda.
Şimdi mi ?
Şimdi.
Bu replikler neydi ya.Tekerleme gibi sürekli kullanıp durmuş yazar.Deli oldum:(
Not:
Burada mı?
Burda.
Şimdi mi ?
Şimdi.
Bu replikler neydi ya.Tekerleme gibi sürekli kullanıp durmuş yazar.Deli oldum:(
November 27, 2012
Kendimle gurur duyuyorum . Bu kitabı da bitirdim. Tam bir vasat ötesi. Bazı yerlerin de yazar resmen tekrar yazmamak için kopyala yapıştır yapmış ya . " Şimdi mi ? Şimdi . Burada mi ? Burada . " Bu kısımların tekrar etmesi ve özellikle o aptal "bana söz ver " muhabbeti gerçekten kitabın içine etmiş. Çok fazla beklentiyle okunmaması gereken bir kitap.
April 25, 2025
If I could give this zero stars I would. I really should have just DNF’d and I don’t know why I didn’t, that’s on me. They didn’t even LIKE each other until like the last fifty fucking pages—I was about to annul the fucking marriage myself. And it was so fucking preachy with all the religious shit?? I’ve read a lot of medieval highland romance and Christianity is present, of course, but this was over the top. Worst HR I’ve ever read by far. Sent me into a reading slump it’ll probably take months to fix.
January 6, 2018
Great read
Absolutely loved this book. Froze the first page you are pulled in. I loved the drama and hard earned love. It was great watching this couple grow and learn to love again.
Absolutely loved this book. Froze the first page you are pulled in. I loved the drama and hard earned love. It was great watching this couple grow and learn to love again.
March 12, 2010
REVIEWED BY TORI
Amanda Forester tells a suspenseful tale of love, betrayal, and redemption in the beautiful highlands of Scotland.
Sir Padyn MacLaren left Scotland a young lad to fight with the French against the English.
Betrayed by his fiancée and forced to kill her lover, he flees back to Scotland with a a vow to never trust a woman again.
Lady Aila Graham has been groomed since birth to enter the convent. When her father summons her she is shocked to learn that he has promised her hand in marriage to MacLaren in exchange for security of their clan. Aila and MacLaren get off to to a rocky start with a misunderstanding on their wedding night that disintegrates quickly into heartache. Aila, not understanding what she has done wrong ,sets to rectify the situation. But MacLaren, due to his mistrust of women, believes the worse of her.
She is kidnapped by a spurned suitor and MacLaren is convinced she left him.
Aila frees herself (you go girl) but has to convince MacLaren that she has not betrayed him. Once the whole story comes out, Aila and MacLaren realize that their is a traitor in their clan and work together to root him out. Along the way they find love and hope for happiness.
I enjoyed this story. Set in the 1300's, you are transported medieval Scotland without pages of boring historical facts and lectures. Lady Aila is a proper lady for the times but she has a stubborn independent streak and a good sense of humor that makes her interesting. When MacLaren accuses Aila of being a traitor she decides she's going home.
"Hold there!" "What do ye ken ye're doing?" demanded Padyn
"I am returning to Dundaff." she said defiantly
"Get off that horse now. I'll no' have yr running away again."
"I'm no' running away. I told ye where I go.You can go where e'er it suits ye, but I'll be taking myself home now."
On the same note, while MacLaren proves to be your dye in the wool warrior who sleeps, eats and pees with the sword, he is willing to listen to Aila and open his heart to her. In trying to ease Aila, MacLaren asks about her faith. Aila answers that verses pop into her mind and she believes those are from God.
"Do ye have any verses in mind now?" asked MacLaren asked softly
"Well, I'm no' sure these verses are from God. They may be naught but my own thoughts."
"What is the verse?"
"Tis from Solmon's Song of Songs. It translates to something like, 'Let him kiss me with kisses of his mouth-for your love is more delightful than wine.'"
"Well." MacLaren smiled with surprise. "God's will be done."
Supporting characters are well thought out and descriptive, bringing depth and a touch of reality to the story. There is some comic relief; such as MacLaren's second in command-Charmount. A french man who seems to have a savior fair attitude towards life but helps out MacLaren and Aila's romance as best he can. In one scene Aila has been reunited with MacLaren after escaping her kidnapper. MacLaren is trying to consummate their marriage in the middle of a field surrounded by his warriors. Aila is rightfully embarrassed and yells, "Nay."
MacLaren begs her not to refuse him saying everyone is asleep. Charmount announces he's not asleep and this starts a loud debate between the men as the whether a woman should submit to her husband or if a husband be more respectful of his wife then to take her in the hearing of some 50 plus men.
One man comments that's it been awhile for MacLaren and maybe he's "out of practice". The whole scene had me laughing out loud.
Aila's father Graham is gruff and grizzly but you are able to see his love for his daughter and knows what he does is to protect her. Aila's mother is a spoiled vain woman but the past will right itself.
The villain of the story is properly dastardly and vanquished accordingly. Well hidden too because it took me almost to the end to figure it out. There is some juicy foreplay, but you more or less had to imagine the smex scenes. Thank goodness I have an over active imagination. More descriptions next time please!
Most historical romances have a similar love lost thru misunderstanding then regained theme; the flow and ebb of The Highlander’s Sword holds you enchanted till the last page.
Rating: 3.5/5
November 29, 2011
Amanda Forester weaves a beautiful tale in The Highlander’s Sword, of the wilds of the Scottish Highlands where distrust and betrayal come together with love and redemption.
Lady Aila Graham always expected to join the church when the time came, but when her brother and father’s heir is killed in war Aila unexpectedly finds herself betrothed to a handsome but hardened knight. Betrayed by his fiancé and grieving the loss of his cousin while at war in France, Sir Padyn MacLaren has sworn never to love again. But to save his clan from squalor he agrees to wed the Graham’s daughter. Always assuming the worst of Aila, their marriage is a tremulous one from the start, rife with distrust and misunderstandings, but can they overcome it and bond together when a traitor is revealed and their clan is threatened?
The Highlander’s Sword is set in the 1300’s of medieval Scotland. The shining point of the novel is the author’s knowledge and expert penmanship of this time period. It was very easy to immerse yourself into the world building. The character’s were well placed and fit their surroundings. Aila is not all that young for the times, but naïve to the world, though she does secretly have an independent streak that we see more of as the story progresses. There are strong religious undertones to the tale, which I thought fit well. Aila is a pious woman who often turns to prayer when she needs an answer and then certain scriptures come to her that relate to the situation and most times help her out of a tight spot. I thought this brought a unique quality to the overall story and though the scriptures where written in both Latin and then English which sometimes seemed redundant, I still enjoyed how they fit each setting.
Padyn was not an endearing protagonist. He comes off heartless in the beginning, always seeing the worst possible side of Aila’s actions and never allowing her to explain herself. Though his reasons are understandable some instances were a bit harsh. Padyn is redeemed somewhat by the end but I would of liked to see more of his better qualities earlier, so that I could have connected with him easier. With so many conflicts in their relationship, Padyn and Aila’s romance was rocky and a weak point in the story, often over shadowed by the action. The sexual encounters were light, well written but not descriptive enough; and I say this because I didn’t even realize that they were finally doing the deed until it was over with.
I did enjoy the side story of Chaumont, the French knight and Padyn's second. It was sweet and Chaumont often contributed to many LOL scenes in the book lightening the mood and easing awkward scenes between Padyn and Aila.
Overall, The Highlander’s Sword was a good read but I would of like to see more romance to the story then what it was.
Lady Aila Graham always expected to join the church when the time came, but when her brother and father’s heir is killed in war Aila unexpectedly finds herself betrothed to a handsome but hardened knight. Betrayed by his fiancé and grieving the loss of his cousin while at war in France, Sir Padyn MacLaren has sworn never to love again. But to save his clan from squalor he agrees to wed the Graham’s daughter. Always assuming the worst of Aila, their marriage is a tremulous one from the start, rife with distrust and misunderstandings, but can they overcome it and bond together when a traitor is revealed and their clan is threatened?
The Highlander’s Sword is set in the 1300’s of medieval Scotland. The shining point of the novel is the author’s knowledge and expert penmanship of this time period. It was very easy to immerse yourself into the world building. The character’s were well placed and fit their surroundings. Aila is not all that young for the times, but naïve to the world, though she does secretly have an independent streak that we see more of as the story progresses. There are strong religious undertones to the tale, which I thought fit well. Aila is a pious woman who often turns to prayer when she needs an answer and then certain scriptures come to her that relate to the situation and most times help her out of a tight spot. I thought this brought a unique quality to the overall story and though the scriptures where written in both Latin and then English which sometimes seemed redundant, I still enjoyed how they fit each setting.
Padyn was not an endearing protagonist. He comes off heartless in the beginning, always seeing the worst possible side of Aila’s actions and never allowing her to explain herself. Though his reasons are understandable some instances were a bit harsh. Padyn is redeemed somewhat by the end but I would of liked to see more of his better qualities earlier, so that I could have connected with him easier. With so many conflicts in their relationship, Padyn and Aila’s romance was rocky and a weak point in the story, often over shadowed by the action. The sexual encounters were light, well written but not descriptive enough; and I say this because I didn’t even realize that they were finally doing the deed until it was over with.
I did enjoy the side story of Chaumont, the French knight and Padyn's second. It was sweet and Chaumont often contributed to many LOL scenes in the book lightening the mood and easing awkward scenes between Padyn and Aila.
Overall, The Highlander’s Sword was a good read but I would of like to see more romance to the story then what it was.
June 22, 2013
First off, I want to say how much I loved this book! I find it hard to believe that this is Ms. Forester's first novel, but if you love historical romance, you won't want to miss this one. It's amazing!!
Padyn MacLaren is a Highlander who was betrayed by his French fiance' to the English. Now wearing a scar across his face from that fiasco, his heart bruised and swearing to never trust another woman again, Padyn makes his way back home to the Scottish Highlands. He had fought for five years.
On his return to his home, he finds devastation. His crops are fallow, his land has been raided and most of his clansmen have left. He immediately submerges himself into hard work to rebuild his home. But when he returned, he brought his warriors with him and Padyn knows he must have more land.
Dundaff Castle has had their crops burnt repeatedly recently and if it continues, they will starve through the winter. Laird Graham does not have the warriors to defend his land, so he sends a proposal to Sir Padyn. If Padyn marries Graham's daughter Aila, then he will inherit Graham land, and help defend it. It seems like a wonderful business transaction to Padyn and he readily agrees.
But unbeknownst to Padyn, Aila was bound for the Church. She was raised to be a nun, but marries Padyn as her father orders. But when Padyn doesn't visit Aila on their wedding eve, Aila is devastated and runs away to the Church to beg an annulment. Before she gets there, she is kidnapped by McNab, a clansman who wants Dundaff Castle for his own.
Padyn and Aila are two diverse characters who emotional well being are compromised. Their love story unfolds against the beautiful backdrop of Scotland and it has it's humorous moments, and it's ups and downs, much like any relationship. Ms. Forester does an excellent job of keeping the plot going and you don't figure out who is the perpetrator until the final pages. Romance, humor and a Highland mystery all rolled into one. I'm looking forward to reading more from Amanda Forester. Her writing just warms the soul.
Padyn MacLaren is a Highlander who was betrayed by his French fiance' to the English. Now wearing a scar across his face from that fiasco, his heart bruised and swearing to never trust another woman again, Padyn makes his way back home to the Scottish Highlands. He had fought for five years.
On his return to his home, he finds devastation. His crops are fallow, his land has been raided and most of his clansmen have left. He immediately submerges himself into hard work to rebuild his home. But when he returned, he brought his warriors with him and Padyn knows he must have more land.
Dundaff Castle has had their crops burnt repeatedly recently and if it continues, they will starve through the winter. Laird Graham does not have the warriors to defend his land, so he sends a proposal to Sir Padyn. If Padyn marries Graham's daughter Aila, then he will inherit Graham land, and help defend it. It seems like a wonderful business transaction to Padyn and he readily agrees.
But unbeknownst to Padyn, Aila was bound for the Church. She was raised to be a nun, but marries Padyn as her father orders. But when Padyn doesn't visit Aila on their wedding eve, Aila is devastated and runs away to the Church to beg an annulment. Before she gets there, she is kidnapped by McNab, a clansman who wants Dundaff Castle for his own.
Padyn and Aila are two diverse characters who emotional well being are compromised. Their love story unfolds against the beautiful backdrop of Scotland and it has it's humorous moments, and it's ups and downs, much like any relationship. Ms. Forester does an excellent job of keeping the plot going and you don't figure out who is the perpetrator until the final pages. Romance, humor and a Highland mystery all rolled into one. I'm looking forward to reading more from Amanda Forester. Her writing just warms the soul.
August 5, 2011
This is a well written debut novel for Amanda Forester. The book is entertaining and full of adventure, at least for Lady Aila Graham. It seems that Padyn MacLaren has his hands full. The characters are interesting and the story moves at a good pace. if you like Scottish Highlander romances this is a good one. As of this posting Barnes & Noble have the eBook for .99 cents.
Set against the backdrop of the rugged Scottish Highlands and the tumultuous 14th century, Lady Aila Graham is destined for the convent until her brother's death leaves her an heiress and her father hastily arranges a marriage for her with a Highland warrior she's never met. Misunderstandings between the battle-hardened knight and his lady are exploited by their enemies and threaten the entire clan. Only by throwing caution to the winds and forging a powerful bond together can they rout a traitor and save their people and their love from destruction.
Set against the backdrop of the rugged Scottish Highlands and the tumultuous 14th century, Lady Aila Graham is destined for the convent until her brother's death leaves her an heiress and her father hastily arranges a marriage for her with a Highland warrior she's never met. Misunderstandings between the battle-hardened knight and his lady are exploited by their enemies and threaten the entire clan. Only by throwing caution to the winds and forging a powerful bond together can they rout a traitor and save their people and their love from destruction.
June 16, 2010
Aila is going about her day and preparing to join a nunnery when one day she finds herself suddenly married. After going back and forth between choosing marriage to MacLaren or becoming a nun, and having a few quick adventures, she finally settles down. A quick, light read with a happy and satisfying ending. This was exactly what I was looking for.
When Aila encounters a choice or any difficulty at all, a quote from from the bible (in Latin) pops into her head to help guide her. Aila is not always bright enough to heed the advice and I find the quotes break up the flow of the story. I find it hard to believe that Aila was really brought up to become a nun.
This book was an easy and entertaining read with the all-around happy ending that I needed after a heavy, depressing book. One time read.
When Aila encounters a choice or any difficulty at all, a quote from from the bible (in Latin) pops into her head to help guide her. Aila is not always bright enough to heed the advice and I find the quotes break up the flow of the story. I find it hard to believe that Aila was really brought up to become a nun.
This book was an easy and entertaining read with the all-around happy ending that I needed after a heavy, depressing book. One time read.
February 24, 2010
For many years now, Aila has been destined for the church, she knows nothing else. But on St. John's Eve she's summoned by her father. He informs her that she will be marrying Padyn MacClaren. Not only that... there will be no engagement period, for she will be getting married today, this moment in fact. Needless to say her world is shaken and her journey takes a different turn with this highlander.
The Highlander's Sword is a lighthearted page-turner. I had a hard time putting the book down. The story is lush in detail from the landscape to everyday life. Amanda Forester weaves an interesting tale. She brings the beautiful and rough Scottish Highlands to life. I thought this was an enjoyable read, I definitely recommend it.
The Highlander's Sword is a lighthearted page-turner. I had a hard time putting the book down. The story is lush in detail from the landscape to everyday life. Amanda Forester weaves an interesting tale. She brings the beautiful and rough Scottish Highlands to life. I thought this was an enjoyable read, I definitely recommend it.
February 8, 2013
I really liked this highlander's book as much as I did book 2, probably more actually. It is humorous, and it moves in a much faster pace than highlander's heart. However, 3/4 of the way in, the hero falls madly in love with Aila -- as to when this actually happened -- escapes me. I felt like I missed something. Sure he finds her physically attractive, but there was somewhat a lack of chemistry between them- in my opinion. I missed that spark that would make their encounters pull on my heartstrings. Having said that, I do love the author's writing; it's engaging, active, and funny-- something that I'm not accustomed to find in highlander books. I found myself laughing out loud at times ;). I will probably end up reading book 3 --despite my intense dislike for the Macnab clan.
August 19, 2010
Wow, what an awesome read by this debut author, Amanda Forester. I love reading Medieval Romances and it was so beautiful to read Lady Aila Graham and Laird Padyn MacLaren's romance. I found it so refreshing to read the growth of their romance after the arranged marriage by her father to strengthen their clan (Graham). It was truly beautiful to see this in the hero and that he didn't fight these feelings throughout the book but did need to learn to trust again and gave that chance with Lila. You too will be thrilled to read another romance within this romance! I so look forward of more from this author. Hopefully SOON!
April 18, 2012
I think, "Eh" is my overall response. It was nice but not memorable. There were a few too many plot turns .
And this wasn't "hot" - it's actually fairly sedate as romance novels go these days. Definitely no purple prose here.
And this wasn't "hot" - it's actually fairly sedate as romance novels go these days. Definitely no purple prose here.
June 20, 2012
The heroine Aila suddenly found out that she was not going to be a nun. Her father had arranged a marriage for her to ensure that as his heir (after her brother's death) his property would remain in his family not become the property of the church. Author is historically accurate. Aila has biblical quotes through out the story. When she is in trouble the quotes come to help her decide what to do.
Basically a G rating.
Basically a G rating.
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