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Hearts of the Highlands #1
Heart of Ashes
Read Book One in a fabulous new Highlander Romance series, only from NYT Bestselling author Paula Quinn!Read for FREE in Kindle Unlimited.A Scottish warrior and a Norman maiden clash in this stunning epic! Cainnech (Cain) MacPherson’s hatred for the English was born when he was a lad of seven, the day they raided his village and killed his family. They took everything from him without mercy and tossed him onto the battlefield, where the memory of love faded to dust and left nothing in its wake but violence. Now, as Robert the Bruce’s most formidable, most lethal warrior, he wreaks havoc on his enemy, taking land by force and without mercy. But when he raids a small castle in Northumberland, he faces his greatest opponent yet—a bold, beautiful Norman lass who will see him dead at any cost rather than give up her home…even if it means tearing open his armored heart and stirring the ashes that remain.Aleysia d’Argentan will do anything to keep the hated Scots out of her castle and away from her villagers. She has prepared for this day for the last four years, building traps in the forest, poisoning the grain, and hiding daggers wherever she could use them to kill her enemy. But she isn’t prepared for the brawny, brooding Highland warlord who invades her life—and her heart. He is an infuriating, irresistible opponent with a curious touch, a smoldering kiss, and a reluctant smile that begins to shine on her alone.Can the ashes of his heart be stirred into flame by his enemy?Books in Heart of AshesHeart of ShadowsHeart of Stone
257 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 14, 2019
About the author
Paula Quinn
64 books1,397 followersPaula Quinn is a NY Times and USA Today bestselling author of medieval, Scottish historical, and paranormal romance. To date, four of her books have garnered a starred review from Publishers Weekly. She has been nominated for Storyteller of the year by RT Book Reviews and every one of her books from the Children of the Mist series have garnered Top Picks from RT Book Reviews. Check out her series, Hearts of the Highlands featuring the brave, romantic MacPhersons on Amazon now!
Also, look for her new time-travel series Echoes In Time coming soon!
Also, look for her new time-travel series Echoes In Time coming soon!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
October 24, 2023
2 😔🤔⭐️s
The timeline was very short and it felt as a long winded prologue… 😞
Also, there were scenes that were so unrealistic or unbelievable!
The timeline was very short and it felt as a long winded prologue… 😞
Also, there were scenes that were so unrealistic or unbelievable!
dnf-too-early-to-mark-it-read
July 8, 2025Not in the mood
I've read the Scot-English enemies to lovers many times before, but for some reason this one is just so depressing.
Both their backgrounds are so similar as well as their wishes for home. But they've both been wronged by the other's country in the same way so I can't choose a side.
Because they're the underdog, and Edward Longshanks was so vicious, it's usually easy to be on the side of the Scot main, whether the hero or heroine. But in this case the Scot hero is pretty vicious himself and it's him and his band of soldiers vs the English heroine and the super old steward... Neither is ever going to get justice from the people who truly hurt them so they're taking it out on each other... Again, pretty depressing. Maybe another time.
I've read the Scot-English enemies to lovers many times before, but for some reason this one is just so depressing.
Both their backgrounds are so similar as well as their wishes for home. But they've both been wronged by the other's country in the same way so I can't choose a side.
Because they're the underdog, and Edward Longshanks was so vicious, it's usually easy to be on the side of the Scot main, whether the hero or heroine. But in this case the Scot hero is pretty vicious himself and it's him and his band of soldiers vs the English heroine and the super old steward... Neither is ever going to get justice from the people who truly hurt them so they're taking it out on each other... Again, pretty depressing. Maybe another time.
February 18, 2019
Enemies to Lovers Between a Scot and an Englishwoman in the time of Robert the Bruce
The story begins in Scotland in 1314 as the Scots are defeating the English at Bannockburn. Cainnech (Cain) MacPherson hates the English for their raid on his village when he was a boy, the day they killed his family and stole his brothers. They took everything including him and brought him up as an English warrior. But those days are now over and Cain serves Robert the Bruce.
When he raids a small castle in Northumberland, he faces a bold Norman lass who will wants him dead at any cost. Aleysia d’Argentan has been planning for four years how she alone will defeat the Scots with traps in the forest, poisoning the grain and wine and daggers hidden all over the castle. However, she did not anticipate Cain’s intelligence or his kindness to her.
For much of the book Aleysia and Cain battled each other but she could not hold out when her affection and respect for him grew. He protected her identity from his men as the women who had killed nine of his men and so his men came to respect her, unaware the castle was hers.
As the story progresses, we are introduced to some loveable characters and a few twists that surprise. When Robert the Bruce shows up, things get really interesting. And the ending is compelling. Great descriptions and well written. Lovers of medieval Scottish historicals will love it.
The story begins in Scotland in 1314 as the Scots are defeating the English at Bannockburn. Cainnech (Cain) MacPherson hates the English for their raid on his village when he was a boy, the day they killed his family and stole his brothers. They took everything including him and brought him up as an English warrior. But those days are now over and Cain serves Robert the Bruce.
When he raids a small castle in Northumberland, he faces a bold Norman lass who will wants him dead at any cost. Aleysia d’Argentan has been planning for four years how she alone will defeat the Scots with traps in the forest, poisoning the grain and wine and daggers hidden all over the castle. However, she did not anticipate Cain’s intelligence or his kindness to her.
For much of the book Aleysia and Cain battled each other but she could not hold out when her affection and respect for him grew. He protected her identity from his men as the women who had killed nine of his men and so his men came to respect her, unaware the castle was hers.
As the story progresses, we are introduced to some loveable characters and a few twists that surprise. When Robert the Bruce shows up, things get really interesting. And the ending is compelling. Great descriptions and well written. Lovers of medieval Scottish historicals will love it.
October 18, 2024
Read: 10/18/24
3.7 stars
Between Okay to good!
SettingAround 1318 Scotland
Enemies to lovers
I'm a sucker for enemies to lovers theme and this book delivered! I loved both the main characters!
Cain was gruff and never allowed himself to care for anyone since the English destroyed his family when he was 7 years old. The English attacked his sleeping Scottish town. He and his brothers were taken as slaves. Years later, he got away and joined King Robert Bruce. He has become one of Robert's best commanders, thanks to his burning hatred in battle. 4 years after the Battle of Bannickburn, Cain is sent to take back an English castle (originally Scottish). It was an easy job until 9 of his men died.
Aleysia was such a badass who planned her defense of her home since her brother died 4 years ago. She sent the villagers away, so it was just her. She was a one man show and would have won if she hadn't missed the leader with her bow or fell for his trap. She never misses! She had poisoned the grain and wine, secret tunnels, and had over 100 weapons hidden all over the Keep. The only reason she got caught was because her old guard didn't leave but tried to come back and got caught. When she tried to free him, she discovered it was a trap. Still, she might have one, but she didn't go for the kill. For some reason, she can't kill him, and she has had other opportunities.
These two don't stop being enemies right away. They have reasons to hate each other. Still love slowly blossoms. Problem is that Cain has survived by not caring for anyone. His heart has become ashes (hint the name of the book 😉). "Tis love is ......tis worse than death" -Cain. Can this two find out how to love an enemy? Not Really a spoiler but this story has a HEA ending, so obviously they find a way.
Loved:
1. All the stunts Aleysia pulls Cain covers up. Instead of being angry, Cain was impressed. I love that! She challenged him, and that made him smile (a rare occurrence).. He respects her courage and determination to defend her home. Cain understands the pain of losing your home. He hids her identity and crimes from his men to protect her. He had never lied to his men, so why is he doing it for an English/Norman woman?
2. I loved the MC! Their conversations and banter were entertaining.
3. Again, I loved the badass h! She was worth the read!
4. This is so well written with excellent pacing.
5. Again, i love how the H never tries to change her.
Disliked:
1. Aleysia seems to be ignorant of the crimes of the English. She talks like they are the innocent ones and the Savage Scots that killed her brother in battle are the butchers. She's too cunning to be this ignorant about the issues.
2. There is a BIG secret revealed near the end. Cain seems to accept it quickly and the whole reveal is kind of glossed over with little fanfare.
3. PQ is great at writing steamy scenes, so i was disappointed that this book is mostly clean. No sex until 87% into the book. Luckily, the story makes up for this flaw with excellent writing.
4. The rushed ending. Why PQ, why?
Conclusion: Most of the book was very well written, but the rushed ending ruined a pretty damn good story. It just needed a few more pages to make it perfect. Why the rush? So I took away a star for that blunder. Still, I would recommend this book and I'll probably read the next book in the series.
3.7 stars
Between Okay to good!
SettingAround 1318 Scotland
Enemies to lovers
I'm a sucker for enemies to lovers theme and this book delivered! I loved both the main characters!
Cain was gruff and never allowed himself to care for anyone since the English destroyed his family when he was 7 years old. The English attacked his sleeping Scottish town. He and his brothers were taken as slaves. Years later, he got away and joined King Robert Bruce. He has become one of Robert's best commanders, thanks to his burning hatred in battle. 4 years after the Battle of Bannickburn, Cain is sent to take back an English castle (originally Scottish). It was an easy job until 9 of his men died.
Aleysia was such a badass who planned her defense of her home since her brother died 4 years ago. She sent the villagers away, so it was just her. She was a one man show and would have won if she hadn't missed the leader with her bow or fell for his trap. She never misses! She had poisoned the grain and wine, secret tunnels, and had over 100 weapons hidden all over the Keep. The only reason she got caught was because her old guard didn't leave but tried to come back and got caught. When she tried to free him, she discovered it was a trap. Still, she might have one, but she didn't go for the kill. For some reason, she can't kill him, and she has had other opportunities.
These two don't stop being enemies right away. They have reasons to hate each other. Still love slowly blossoms. Problem is that Cain has survived by not caring for anyone. His heart has become ashes (hint the name of the book 😉). "Tis love is ......tis worse than death" -Cain. Can this two find out how to love an enemy? Not Really a spoiler but this story has a HEA ending, so obviously they find a way.
Loved:
1. All the stunts Aleysia pulls Cain covers up. Instead of being angry, Cain was impressed. I love that! She challenged him, and that made him smile (a rare occurrence).. He respects her courage and determination to defend her home. Cain understands the pain of losing your home. He hids her identity and crimes from his men to protect her. He had never lied to his men, so why is he doing it for an English/Norman woman?
2. I loved the MC! Their conversations and banter were entertaining.
3. Again, I loved the badass h! She was worth the read!
4. This is so well written with excellent pacing.
5. Again, i love how the H never tries to change her.
Disliked:
1. Aleysia seems to be ignorant of the crimes of the English. She talks like they are the innocent ones and the Savage Scots that killed her brother in battle are the butchers. She's too cunning to be this ignorant about the issues.
2. There is a BIG secret revealed near the end. Cain seems to accept it quickly and the whole reveal is kind of glossed over with little fanfare.
3. PQ is great at writing steamy scenes, so i was disappointed that this book is mostly clean. No sex until 87% into the book. Luckily, the story makes up for this flaw with excellent writing.
4. The rushed ending. Why PQ, why?
Conclusion: Most of the book was very well written, but the rushed ending ruined a pretty damn good story. It just needed a few more pages to make it perfect. Why the rush? So I took away a star for that blunder. Still, I would recommend this book and I'll probably read the next book in the series.
Want to Read
February 18, 2025🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/15/2020)! 🎁
January 16, 2019
Paula Quinn knows how to write knock your socks off historical Scottish romance laced with danger and intrigue, folks. Pure and simple. I nabbed this new release via my very neglected Kindle Unlimited subscription and am so glad I did.
Aleysia was my absolute favorite type of heroine. Bonny, brave, strong, feisty, warrior/combat savvy, and so determined to help her people avoid the evil clutches of her enemies she’s planned meticulously for years. When the inevitable invasion occurs, she surprises them all in a very clever way they never saw coming. Sure, it was rather knuckleheaded and naive to think it was a permanent solution, but I loved her tenacity and clever set-up to becoming a lethal weapon.
Cain was simply sent by his Scottish king to do a job. His war weary body and heart just wants to complete this mission and then take a breather. What he didn’t expect was to have his breath and afraid to love heart stolen right out from under him. His admiration for this willing to sacrifice her own life to help her people was his ultimate undoing. Resistance was futile, folks. So was my ability to put this book down until the very end.
Romance Safety Gang:
Title: Heart of Ashes, Series: Hearts of the Highlands (Book 1), Author: Paula Quinn, Pages: 255, stand-alone but part of a series, beautiful virgin, warrior/combat savvy, determined to help her people heroine, just doing his job warrior soldier hero, afraid to love type hero, no cheating, no OW/OM drama, no love triangle, tries not to fall for her.
(These comments are based on a Kindle Unlimited version. This is not a detailed ARC review.)
Aleysia was my absolute favorite type of heroine. Bonny, brave, strong, feisty, warrior/combat savvy, and so determined to help her people avoid the evil clutches of her enemies she’s planned meticulously for years. When the inevitable invasion occurs, she surprises them all in a very clever way they never saw coming. Sure, it was rather knuckleheaded and naive to think it was a permanent solution, but I loved her tenacity and clever set-up to becoming a lethal weapon.
Cain was simply sent by his Scottish king to do a job. His war weary body and heart just wants to complete this mission and then take a breather. What he didn’t expect was to have his breath and afraid to love heart stolen right out from under him. His admiration for this willing to sacrifice her own life to help her people was his ultimate undoing. Resistance was futile, folks. So was my ability to put this book down until the very end.
Romance Safety Gang:
Title: Heart of Ashes, Series: Hearts of the Highlands (Book 1), Author: Paula Quinn, Pages: 255, stand-alone but part of a series, beautiful virgin, warrior/combat savvy, determined to help her people heroine, just doing his job warrior soldier hero, afraid to love type hero, no cheating, no OW/OM drama, no love triangle, tries not to fall for her.
(These comments are based on a Kindle Unlimited version. This is not a detailed ARC review.)
January 16, 2019
I got Paula Quinn's newest release last night on my Kindle and I stayed up way too late because I could not put it down. The book has intrigue, armies, political tensions, and a love affair between two enemies with Warrior temperments. Aleysia is really a heroine with whom modern-day women can totally relate. She is defender, breadwinner, and caregiver to the people who are servants and tenants on her deceased brother's estate. And she is doing it without physically capable men. Aleysia's brother, a favorite warrior of the English King, died at the Battle of Bannockburn. Before he left, he trained Aleysia in the defensive arts and strategies of Sword/ knife fighting and archery. She has acquired and excelled at these skills because she too, has the spirit of a warrior along with strong leadership skills. Her problem is her attraction for the Invading army's Highlander Commander, Cain MacPherson. This attraction goes against her loyalty to her brother and country. Her other major problem is how is she going to keep possession so she can take care of her people once the Scottish King, Robert the Bruce, takes ownership of her brother's lands? However MacPherson has similar problems, not the least of which is to remain alive with a muderous woman , living among his occupying troops. She clearly states she is going to kill him. Cain has the same warrior spirit and is a Favorite of his Scottish King. He admires Aleysia's beauty, has enough chivalry and honor to know he will never kill a woman, but also respects her warrior talents. He has to fight an attraction and sympathy for his enemy, all the while realizing she is a very dangerous woman. Cain has his own secrets. He has deep pain at his upbringing and both have a deep and justified hatred of the opposing sides. The great thing about this book is the character developement of taking two enemies, and slowly letting them move from hate, mistrust to respect, trust and finally love. It was interesting to see to opposing enemies become trusted partners as equals. This book has political intrigue as both must deal with representatives of their respective Kings. It has comic relief in the form of a scary Nun, an old priest and an old knight. It has a mystery in the true motives and identities of a couple auxiliary characters. It also has wonderful sexual tension and dialog that creates a wonderful intricately woven story. I love this book, and I think you will love it too...I can not wait to read the next book in this series. I am getting attached to some of the side characters already and I want to know more about them...Thank you Paula for such a great reading experience.
January 31, 2019
This book had so much potential, but kind of fell flat to me. A light imitation of books similar written in the 70's/80's. Wish that it had the depth of that era and I would be able to rate it higher. Slow at times, very PG, and slightly underwhelmed.
January 17, 2019
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Paula Quinn writes amazing books . So in-depth and detailed. They take your breath away .
Set on the border between Scotland and England. Cainnech MacPherson has become entangled with the fiery heiress of Lismoor Castle , Aleysia d’Argetaine .
It’s not long before fighting and warfare turn to Kisses and passion.
Being from different worlds and different countries , will they be able to overcome their challenges, and let love find a way .
Awesome book , thoroughly enjoyable and riveting.
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
💋💋
Paula Quinn writes amazing books . So in-depth and detailed. They take your breath away .
Set on the border between Scotland and England. Cainnech MacPherson has become entangled with the fiery heiress of Lismoor Castle , Aleysia d’Argetaine .
It’s not long before fighting and warfare turn to Kisses and passion.
Being from different worlds and different countries , will they be able to overcome their challenges, and let love find a way .
Awesome book , thoroughly enjoyable and riveting.
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
April 30, 2019
I really like this series. A great story and very likeable characters. Look forward to the next one. Recommended
August 2, 2020
Heart of Ashes, by Paula Quinn is a Scottish treasure to read. Her writing moves through the book flawlessly. Every detail that Paula writes is given with enough details to open the readers imagination. Paula, was able to intrigue her readers with drama, action and a little humor. These scenes played well from the beginning of the book to the end of the book.
As the reader, I was pleased with the many different characters in the story. They help carry the playfulness and some of the heart warming moments in the story. Paulas story takes to the hills and borderline of England and Scotland. Here you find Aleysia and her noble Knight Richard last to leave her castle. Aleysia made a vow to her people that she would not give up her castle to the Scottish.
So she fought them. By herself. The Commander of these men Cain, he was beside himself. Cain vowed that he would not back down from the phantom that was taking out his men. Once our two leading characters found out about one another and what role that they played in this battle. The bigger battle was set to begin.
I recommend this book. FYI, you will love the part at the Abbey. Always watch the person who hides their hands. Even if they wear a habit. Until next time my fellow readers... read on! I voluntary reviewed this ARC after receiving a free gifted copy.
As the reader, I was pleased with the many different characters in the story. They help carry the playfulness and some of the heart warming moments in the story. Paulas story takes to the hills and borderline of England and Scotland. Here you find Aleysia and her noble Knight Richard last to leave her castle. Aleysia made a vow to her people that she would not give up her castle to the Scottish.
So she fought them. By herself. The Commander of these men Cain, he was beside himself. Cain vowed that he would not back down from the phantom that was taking out his men. Once our two leading characters found out about one another and what role that they played in this battle. The bigger battle was set to begin.
I recommend this book. FYI, you will love the part at the Abbey. Always watch the person who hides their hands. Even if they wear a habit. Until next time my fellow readers... read on! I voluntary reviewed this ARC after receiving a free gifted copy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2020
Joyful Read
I could totally live in Paula Quinn’s stories forever. This has to be one of the best Happy Ever After Endings I’ve read in a long time.
Aleysia and Cain were the perfect match for each other. Both characters are leaders with honor, respect, and loyalty no matter what side of the war you’re on. I admired them both.
Aleysia is a character I see as myself. A woman who has the balls and will to stand up for what she believes in and at the same time puts action behind her beliefs and words. Cain of course is a sexy and fierce Highlander like most Highlanders always are, however this Highlander showed and gave the respect due to the woman’s intentions of protecting her home and villagers.
This was such a joyful read and had a few touching and emotional moments where I could of cried. I was so happy with the ending that I couldn’t wait to download the second book in the series and start it.
I highly recommend all of Paula Quinn’s books.
Excellent read!
I could totally live in Paula Quinn’s stories forever. This has to be one of the best Happy Ever After Endings I’ve read in a long time.
Aleysia and Cain were the perfect match for each other. Both characters are leaders with honor, respect, and loyalty no matter what side of the war you’re on. I admired them both.
Aleysia is a character I see as myself. A woman who has the balls and will to stand up for what she believes in and at the same time puts action behind her beliefs and words. Cain of course is a sexy and fierce Highlander like most Highlanders always are, however this Highlander showed and gave the respect due to the woman’s intentions of protecting her home and villagers.
This was such a joyful read and had a few touching and emotional moments where I could of cried. I was so happy with the ending that I couldn’t wait to download the second book in the series and start it.
I highly recommend all of Paula Quinn’s books.
Excellent read!
Read
July 31, 2019Loved it!
Kept me interested from beginning to end. Loved the characters , I hope there will a story for Nicholas and Torrin.
Kept me interested from beginning to end. Loved the characters , I hope there will a story for Nicholas and Torrin.
January 17, 2019
Northumberland 1318 Lismoor Castle, the sounds of Bagpipes was haunting as Aleysia D'Argentan knew they signaled the coming of the Scots and a battle. The men sent by Robert the Bruce would be upon them, laying siege to the castle she had refused to forfeit to them after her brother was killed. I was riveted in the first few pages by the author's detailed descriptions and could almost feel the atmosphere and emotions!!
A fierce Norman warrior in her own right, having trained for years, she was ready to defend her home. Would rather die trying than give in! But how could a lass fight all those fierce warriors on her own? Her plan was going well with all the traps she had set until she saw him and knew "he was the most dangerous, the most savagely alluring man she'd ever set eyes on. It was almost a shame that he had to die." She almost killed him with her arrow from the trees and then he went after her.
Cainnech MacPherson, second Highland commander to King Robert the Bruce, was driven by his terrible childhood when everything was taken from him. His heart was in ashes and he wrecked havoc everywhere he went. But as he faces beautiful Aleysia who was willing to sacrifice her life for her home and people.
I just had to set this up because the beginning was so compelling. I could not wait to turn the pages and see how these two could possibly come together and the journey was that each fought against. Intrigue, mistrust, hate, mystery and strong emotions. Could it prevail as their attraction could not be denied?
Wow, just enjoyed this story so much, but how could I not? A brawny highland warrior, a fierce English woman with some side characters who brought humor to the story in a complex tale. Prepare to be enthralled! Cannot wait until the next story in this new series!!
A fierce Norman warrior in her own right, having trained for years, she was ready to defend her home. Would rather die trying than give in! But how could a lass fight all those fierce warriors on her own? Her plan was going well with all the traps she had set until she saw him and knew "he was the most dangerous, the most savagely alluring man she'd ever set eyes on. It was almost a shame that he had to die." She almost killed him with her arrow from the trees and then he went after her.
Cainnech MacPherson, second Highland commander to King Robert the Bruce, was driven by his terrible childhood when everything was taken from him. His heart was in ashes and he wrecked havoc everywhere he went. But as he faces beautiful Aleysia who was willing to sacrifice her life for her home and people.
I just had to set this up because the beginning was so compelling. I could not wait to turn the pages and see how these two could possibly come together and the journey was that each fought against. Intrigue, mistrust, hate, mystery and strong emotions. Could it prevail as their attraction could not be denied?
Wow, just enjoyed this story so much, but how could I not? A brawny highland warrior, a fierce English woman with some side characters who brought humor to the story in a complex tale. Prepare to be enthralled! Cannot wait until the next story in this new series!!
January 17, 2019
Heart of Ashes
By Paula Quinn
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cainnech MacPherson has a healthy hatred for the English. The English raided his village when he was only 7 and killed his family. They took everything from a little boy tossing him out on the battlefield, where his memories of love faded to nothing leaving him only memories of violence.
Now he is Robert the Bruce's most lethal warrior, wreaking havoc on his enemy, taking land by force and without mercy. But when he raids a small castle in Northumberland, he faces off with a beautiful norman lass who will kill him rather then give up her home.
Aleysia d'Argentan has prepared for this day for years and will do anything to keep the Scots out of her castle and away from her villagers. But she isn't prepared for this hansome Highland warlord who has invaded her life and also her heart. He is infuriating as he is irresistible with a curious touch, a fiery kiss, and a reluctant smile that begins to shine for her alone.
This is the first book that I have read from Paula Quinn and I was pleasantly surprised. Ms. Quinn gives you a detailed description of everything she writes giving you the overall feeling that you are there sharing in the story with the characters. As for the characters well they sizzle from the pages and have great chemistry. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from Ms. Quinn in the future.
By Paula Quinn
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cainnech MacPherson has a healthy hatred for the English. The English raided his village when he was only 7 and killed his family. They took everything from a little boy tossing him out on the battlefield, where his memories of love faded to nothing leaving him only memories of violence.
Now he is Robert the Bruce's most lethal warrior, wreaking havoc on his enemy, taking land by force and without mercy. But when he raids a small castle in Northumberland, he faces off with a beautiful norman lass who will kill him rather then give up her home.
Aleysia d'Argentan has prepared for this day for years and will do anything to keep the Scots out of her castle and away from her villagers. But she isn't prepared for this hansome Highland warlord who has invaded her life and also her heart. He is infuriating as he is irresistible with a curious touch, a fiery kiss, and a reluctant smile that begins to shine for her alone.
This is the first book that I have read from Paula Quinn and I was pleasantly surprised. Ms. Quinn gives you a detailed description of everything she writes giving you the overall feeling that you are there sharing in the story with the characters. As for the characters well they sizzle from the pages and have great chemistry. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from Ms. Quinn in the future.
January 22, 2019
Since her brother was killed by the Scottish, Aleysia d'Argentan has prepared herself, her castle and lands for when they descend on them. It has been four years of hard work and planning. Now they are coming and she is ready.
Cainnech MacPherson is a Commander in the army of Robert the Bruce. This latest castle he has been told to take looks abandoned, it should be easy.
Our heroine is a very courageous young lady who is determined to protect her home. She is clever, cunning and well organised.
Our hero is a warrior through and through, with no softer feelings.
A wonderful story with lots of excitement and times where I was thinking "you go girl". All the characters are fun and I hope we will meet them again.
I loved every page.
Cainnech MacPherson is a Commander in the army of Robert the Bruce. This latest castle he has been told to take looks abandoned, it should be easy.
Our heroine is a very courageous young lady who is determined to protect her home. She is clever, cunning and well organised.
Our hero is a warrior through and through, with no softer feelings.
A wonderful story with lots of excitement and times where I was thinking "you go girl". All the characters are fun and I hope we will meet them again.
I loved every page.
July 15, 2019
Paula Quinn has done it again and not disappoints with the first book in the “Hearts of the Highlands” series. What I have enjoyed about her books for many years is that she develops characters you come to care about in a very well researched historical backdrop. If you are a fan of historical fiction, please consider picking this book up the next time you’re online or at the bookstore. Previously I thoroughly enjoyed her multigenerational MacGregor clan saga. You won’t be disappointed.
March 26, 2019
This was one of the better books I have read. It was very entertaining and I was never bored when reading it.
January 16, 2020
Now THAT is my kind of story, my kind of heroine and my kind of hero!!! I loved everything about this book, I can't even think of any one thing that I didn't like! Very well written, kicka$$ hero and heroine, lovable secondary characters, action throughout, in fact everything you would ever want in a historical romance.
Cainnech is such a tortured soul and all he knows is war and killing. Aleysia will do anything to save her home and her village from the Scots. When the two meet, all they want to do is kill each other! lol Soon passions are flaring and it's up to Aleysia to find Cain's heart amidst the ashes and show him that love is not something he should be afraid of feeling. Oh, be still my heart, these two are soooo perfect together!!!
I also have to say the title is one of the most perfect I've ever heard....Heart of Ashes....a must read!
Cainnech is such a tortured soul and all he knows is war and killing. Aleysia will do anything to save her home and her village from the Scots. When the two meet, all they want to do is kill each other! lol Soon passions are flaring and it's up to Aleysia to find Cain's heart amidst the ashes and show him that love is not something he should be afraid of feeling. Oh, be still my heart, these two are soooo perfect together!!!
I also have to say the title is one of the most perfect I've ever heard....Heart of Ashes....a must read!
June 15, 2019
Awesome story
I think the first time in my life I’m stuck speechless this was an outstanding book I absolutely loved reading it and I will read it again in the future it was so well written the characters defined and you love them made me laugh made me cry and made me stay up late so I could finish up excellent book if you really like adventure romance true love read this book you won’t be disappointed
I think the first time in my life I’m stuck speechless this was an outstanding book I absolutely loved reading it and I will read it again in the future it was so well written the characters defined and you love them made me laugh made me cry and made me stay up late so I could finish up excellent book if you really like adventure romance true love read this book you won’t be disappointed
April 10, 2019
4.5/5.0
Ms. Quinn’s phenomenal job brings to life the sights and sounds, the smells and tastes of this extremely complex period of time.
Read full review in the 2019 April issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Ms. Quinn’s phenomenal job brings to life the sights and sounds, the smells and tastes of this extremely complex period of time.
Read full review in the 2019 April issue of InD'tale Magazine.
October 20, 2024
I expected more animosity between the enemies-turned-lovers. Otherwise, this was an enjoyable romance. The ending was kind of abrupt though. It needed an epilogue.
I’m interested in the hero’s youngest brother’s HEA.
I’m interested in the hero’s youngest brother’s HEA.
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March 1, 2019"You Dragged Me Oot Of The Ashes And Into Yer Fire"
Aleysia and Cainnech were two people that lead two completely different lifestyles. He is the Second Commander of the Scottish Military. She is in charge of the Castle and Village that has been her brothers before he was killed in a battle with the Scots. He
is a no nonsense fierce warrior because of the horrors done to him and his family by the English when he was a child. She was raised by the Knights that had served her parents after their deaths and the people of the village with much love and affection.
She and her people know the Scottish army is coming to conquer them so they have prepared the forest with booby traps and poisoned the food and wine to kill them all. She truly believe she can stops them from taking her castle and destroying her village. He is a very wise leader and sees the situations and avoids the pitfalls after losing 9 of his men. They quickly come together in a battle of wills as she tries to kill him with the many hidden knives in the Castle and he avoids her attacks and admires her bravery in her fight for her home. They soon begin a love hate relationship that becomes something more serious as they spend time together. She learns of the terrible atrocities he lived through that has closed his heart and sees him as a man of strength with a kind heart beneath his outward appearance and works to convince him to free her and her people.
This is a struggle between two strong personalities both fighting to do their duties and finding love where it is least expected or wanted.
Aleysia and Cainnech were two people that lead two completely different lifestyles. He is the Second Commander of the Scottish Military. She is in charge of the Castle and Village that has been her brothers before he was killed in a battle with the Scots. He
is a no nonsense fierce warrior because of the horrors done to him and his family by the English when he was a child. She was raised by the Knights that had served her parents after their deaths and the people of the village with much love and affection.
She and her people know the Scottish army is coming to conquer them so they have prepared the forest with booby traps and poisoned the food and wine to kill them all. She truly believe she can stops them from taking her castle and destroying her village. He is a very wise leader and sees the situations and avoids the pitfalls after losing 9 of his men. They quickly come together in a battle of wills as she tries to kill him with the many hidden knives in the Castle and he avoids her attacks and admires her bravery in her fight for her home. They soon begin a love hate relationship that becomes something more serious as they spend time together. She learns of the terrible atrocities he lived through that has closed his heart and sees him as a man of strength with a kind heart beneath his outward appearance and works to convince him to free her and her people.
This is a struggle between two strong personalities both fighting to do their duties and finding love where it is least expected or wanted.
January 17, 2019
Wonderful story, can’t wait for the next in this series!
The beautiful Lady Aleysia knows they’re coming, the Scots that is. Those evil murderers killed her brother, a heroic English knight, in battle four years prior. Aleysia has been expecting them to show up at their family castle and village to attempt to take it all for their king, Robert the Bruce. But she’s had four years to plan, to plot, and prepare and she doesn’t intend to just hand things over without a fight.
Cainnech , commander and battle hardened Scottish warrior loyal to the Bruce, and a small contingent of his men are indeed on the way. He has reason for his extreme hatred for anything or anyone attached to the English. They expect little resistance, but they have a few surprises in store. Few of these unexpected events are going to be good, but Cain will be drawn in by a woman who begins as an enemy who only desires to see him dead.
This is the first in a new series and it has a terrific story, witty banter, colorful characters and it was hard to put down. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and am looking forward to the next book. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a Scottish history with action, humor, and a little bit of heat.
The beautiful Lady Aleysia knows they’re coming, the Scots that is. Those evil murderers killed her brother, a heroic English knight, in battle four years prior. Aleysia has been expecting them to show up at their family castle and village to attempt to take it all for their king, Robert the Bruce. But she’s had four years to plan, to plot, and prepare and she doesn’t intend to just hand things over without a fight.
Cainnech , commander and battle hardened Scottish warrior loyal to the Bruce, and a small contingent of his men are indeed on the way. He has reason for his extreme hatred for anything or anyone attached to the English. They expect little resistance, but they have a few surprises in store. Few of these unexpected events are going to be good, but Cain will be drawn in by a woman who begins as an enemy who only desires to see him dead.
This is the first in a new series and it has a terrific story, witty banter, colorful characters and it was hard to put down. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and am looking forward to the next book. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a Scottish history with action, humor, and a little bit of heat.
January 19, 2019
Aleysia d’Argentan has done everything to keep the hated Scots out of her castle, her brother is gone and it’s up to her to protect their people. She send everyone away and fights the enemy by herself. She is defender and caregiver to the people who are servants and tenants on her land. Her one job is to stop the invasion. Cainnech (Cain) MacPherson is one Robert the Bruce’s most formidable, most lethal warrior whose hatred of the English is legendary and his goal is to take the land by force and without mercy. What Cain doesn’t expect is one determined beautiful Norman lass who has no intent on giving up her home. Aleysia find the Highland warrior all too attractive with smoldering kisses that neither can deny their passions are burning between them. He respects she’s a warrior too and he knows he can never kill a woman who’s determined to keep her castle even though she has threatened to kill him if he doesn’t leave her home. A great story of enemies who are both determined and stubborn to the bone and neither will give in as they fight against mistrust, hatred and a sizzling passion to find their HEA!!! This my honest opinions after I voluntarily read a copy of this book that was provided to me with no requirements for a review.
January 16, 2019
Cainnech (Cain) MacPherson is a highland warrior in charge of a group of King Robert the Bruce’s fighting divisions. Cain has developed a hated of the English, so deep, that he can think of nothing else. He has never known love and family, since his family was wiped out by the English in a terrible raid when he was 7 years old. He is a tough strongminded warrior that lets nothing bother him as he fights for the Bruce. Aleysia d’ Argentan will do anything to keep her home and has done just that for the past 4 years. She knows the Scots are coming to claim her home, and she had laid traps in the forest, poisoned grain and drink in the castle, and sent all her people away. The place is not occupied, and traps are laid everywhere. This is an exciting, emotional and well-developed highland romance that keeps you turning the pages.
March 17, 2019
Clash of Titans🔪💕
Northumberland 1318
Cain🐺🍆⛲🔪 is sent by Robert The Bruce to capture Lismoor castle🏰 held by the Normans in Northumberland. Cain🐺🍆⛲🔪 is a huge Scottish nobleman and warrior with a vendetta. His family and whole village were murdered and burned by Longshanks army👹 when he was a youngster. He will spend years getting his revenge. His heart💔 has only ashes in it, now.
Little does he know Lismoor castle🏰 is now held by Aleysia💃💋🔪, the sister of Giles, killed by the Bruce's men at Bannockburn. She tries to fight Cain🐺🍆⛲🔪 and his knights but it's futile.
Cain🐺🍆⛲🔪 takes the castle but he begins to have feelings for his beautiful and dangerous Norman prisoner. Dinna be afraid......
This is a very Alpha Male🐺🍆⛲🔪 Adult Historical Romance. There are also scenes of bloody and gory fighting🔪.
Loved this book, I couldn't put it down!
Northumberland 1318
Cain🐺🍆⛲🔪 is sent by Robert The Bruce to capture Lismoor castle🏰 held by the Normans in Northumberland. Cain🐺🍆⛲🔪 is a huge Scottish nobleman and warrior with a vendetta. His family and whole village were murdered and burned by Longshanks army👹 when he was a youngster. He will spend years getting his revenge. His heart💔 has only ashes in it, now.
Little does he know Lismoor castle🏰 is now held by Aleysia💃💋🔪, the sister of Giles, killed by the Bruce's men at Bannockburn. She tries to fight Cain🐺🍆⛲🔪 and his knights but it's futile.
Cain🐺🍆⛲🔪 takes the castle but he begins to have feelings for his beautiful and dangerous Norman prisoner. Dinna be afraid......
This is a very Alpha Male🐺🍆⛲🔪 Adult Historical Romance. There are also scenes of bloody and gory fighting🔪.
Loved this book, I couldn't put it down!
January 22, 2019
Cain MacPherson hates the English as much as Aleysia d’Argentan hates Scots. When Cain comes to claim her home in the name of Robert he Bruce Aleysia will fight tooth and nail to stop them. Aleysia has been planning and waiting for them to come for the last four years and she is ready for them. Cain can’t help but be attracted and infuriated at her. Neither Cain nor Aleysia are prepared for the feelings they are having for each other. I couldn’t wait to get to read every night, this was such a good story. I loved all the characters in this book, Aleysia was such a spitfire but made me smile, Cain was hard but had that soft side you knew was in there. It was such a pleasure to read this book. I have always enjoyed Paula Quinn’s books and I was excited to read this one, it did not disappoint! Definitely recommend!
January 21, 2019
Having lost her brother at the Battle of Bannockburn, Aleysia protects what is hers and would be very happy to kill all Scots. She and her people have managed to construct an elaborate method of protection, which kills many of the men sent to overtake her home. Cainnech has been sent to secure the keep for the Bruce, not realizing that he and his men are riding into an ambush.
Cain eventually captures Aleysia, but decides to keep her identity a secret from his men. As they argue, work on their fighting skills, they realize that mutual hate has turned to mutual attraction. Then, the realization that their destiny is with each other.
This was a great first book in the series.
Cain eventually captures Aleysia, but decides to keep her identity a secret from his men. As they argue, work on their fighting skills, they realize that mutual hate has turned to mutual attraction. Then, the realization that their destiny is with each other.
This was a great first book in the series.
January 22, 2019
I always love everything Miss Quinn writes. This book was no different. Aleysia was braver than I could ever have been. Trying her hardest to protect her land and her people. Cain was just following orders to take control of her home. Once Cain finds out she was behind everything he can't help but admire her. I had the same thoughts about William. I hope they are reunited with Torin. I hope Nicholas gets a book but please let him find love with Mattie. I don't think Julianna deserves his love. I can see her sniffing around now that he has Lismoor. Plus Amish and Rauf need to find ladies of their own. Great start to a new series!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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