Emma Marston, daughter of the Earl of Dawaerton, travels to Scotland to marry her childhood foe—a deal arranged by their parents since birth. But fate has different plans…
William, future Laird of Clan MacNair, awaits his betrothed, a distant memory from the past. However Emma, in flesh and bones, is lovelier than he remembers....and steals his heart in an instant.
But when the night of their engagement the Earl gets mysteriously poisoned, everything changes for both of them. With Emma's brother canceling their engagement, she finally sees clearly the odious fate that awaits her.
With all fingers pointing at the MacNairs, William is the only one who can rescue her...
Until the day they both discover that the murder is only the start of a well-thought scheme and they are trapped right in the middle of it.
*Disciplined by the Highlander is a steamy Scottish historical romance novel of 80,000 words (around 400 pages). No cheating, no cliffhangers, lots of steam and a happy ending.
Lydia Kendall has always been passionate about medieval romance. Having traveled to the Scottish Highlands several times as a young girl, she has always been drawn to their unparalleled beauty and history. A history that inspired stories of love and passion, mixed with tradition in the most appealing way for every hopeless romantic - much like herself.
Born in Denver, Colorado, Lydia Kendall has a degree in English Literature and Creative Writing, and over the last decade she has been writing non-stop for several clients - that is until she decided to start publishing her own work. When she isn't writing, Lydia loves spending her time in the beautiful outdoors with her loving husband and baby daughter.
Follow Lydia on this sensational journey of hot highlanders, bonny lassies, and fierce passion...and find sheer pleasure in the magnificent world of the Scottish countryside - one that will sweep you off your feet and keep you begging for more!
The story started off good. I enjoyed the prologue and the original meeting of the hero and heroine. However, by 30% in, there were way too many inconsistencies. One minute a person thought or felt one way; the next minute it was opposite. I decided it is not worth my time to read the rest of the book.
Adult Highlander Romance💕, Murder Mystery🔪, Betrayal English girl Emma is only nine in 1757 when she first sees William MacNair, the son of a influential Laird. As the daughter of an Earl, she is destined for an arranged marriage, yet she vows it will be to William.
Her older brother Thomas, the heir, is bested in a sparring matchup between he and William. The vindictive bully Thomas will never forget, he is mean and cruel just like his father!
Ten years later, Her childhood declaration is about to become true, but Emma💃💋 is angry about the arranged marriage to William🐺🔪 now. She feels used by her father, even though William🐺🔪 is now a huge, handsome, black haired brute of a man and she is excited to see him. It's just that she was given no choice. Can 💘love grow between them?
ARC Received from Bookfunnel🌀 I also got the book with Amazon Free Opinions Expressed here are my own.
I loved the romance and the adventure of this well written Highlander🔪 Romance💕! The book is rather long, but lots of adventure and a true love story is crammed into the pages. I would be happy if it went on forever!
Emma's father, the Earl of of Dawaerton, has contracted with his friend and business associate, the Laird of Clan MacNair, for Emma to be married to the Laird's son, William. Emma is angry and distraught that she is being bartered to a stranger. She and William meet and come to an agreement to tell their fathers that they wish to call off the betrothal. Their fathers refuse and they are forced to attend a feast celebrating both their betrothal and William's birthday. Emma and William find that they are increasingly attracted to each other and are enjoying the feast when the Earl suddenly dies. The story moves forward rapidly into the mystery of who has killed the Earl, who can be trusted and who should be feared. The characters are believable and the portrayal of the different lifestyles from England to Scotland are vivid and draw the reader further into this story of love, loss, family ties, betrayal and loyalty. I highly recommend this book and thus author
"Disciplined by the Highlander" earns 5/5 Scottish Kilts...Engaging!
I have recently become of a fan of historical romance, especially those which include a kilted highlander, but along with political intrigue, historical conflict between Scots and Englanders, and navigating true love this Scottish gem from Lydia Kendall also includes a murder mystery...brilliant!
The prologue, set in 1725, introduces our heroine Emma Marston, a nine-year-old handful, meeting for the first time young William, son of the Laird of Clan MacNair. She leaves a lasting impression when during a mock fight with her brother, she has a fortuitous outburst alerting William to one of her brother's dirty tricks. He's pleased, the brother scowls, and she vows to one day marry young William. Leap ahead ten years and nineteen-year-old Emma is furious to learn the trip to Scotland is more than joining in on the celebration of William's birthday. She learns of the arranged marriage between her and William is set. Angry since she remembers nothing of the man, questions being a pawn in her father's dealings, and demands to have the right of choice, but "what's done is done." It's the way things are for the daughter of an English Earl. The betrothal is to be announced at William's birthday celebration, but the tragic death of Emma's father changes everything...poisoned...murdered.
Lydia Kendall's journey was very enjoyable written in a third-person narrative, although I would have preferred Emma's perspective. Her writing style was engaging with vivid descriptions that highlighted the highlands, the towns, the costumes, and the characters. The historical references to life in the eighteenth century and contrast between Scotland and England were fascinating. Although a trivial critique, I found it difficult to read the Scottish brogue in the dialogue. I admire the author's efforts to represent an air of authenticity, and even though I think I missed out on some details, I got the gist of what was being discussed. Emma is a great character, portraying more of a modern woman wanting more than society dictates, and her strength and cleverness reminds me a bit of Kate in Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew." I the dynamic between Emma and William is enjoyable. The murder mystery was clever and I followed it closely as a fan of cozy mysteries and detective dramas. I recommend this book...it is more than historical romance!
Disclosure: I received an ARC. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
This book has a betrothal a poisoning and a man willing to get revenge . Emma Marston is the daughter of the Earl of Dawaerton her family and Clan MacNair have always held a very thin thread of friendship but when she sees William for the first time when she is nine she thinks this is the man she wants to marry unfortunately her brother Thomas a spiteful bully dosen't feel the same. Ten years later when her family goes to Scotland for a birthday party she finds out instead she is betrothed to William Laird of Clan MacNair there fathers aranged it. She is angry she want's love she doesn't care that William has grown into a handsom man. But she doesn't have longvto contemplate her betrothal when her father is poisoned at dinner and dies. Now the betrothal is broken and William has been accused. She believes the lie for a little while.
William doesn't know he's about to become engaged and accused of murder he hardly remembers his betrothed but he will honor the agreement until his soon to be father in law ends up dead now he will follow his former betrothed family back home and find out what has really happened its a good thing too because Emma will need his help. Sometimes those you think can be trusted end up being your worst enemy
I was allowed to read and advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
Thank you Ms Kendall f9r a delightful Highland romance filled with murder, mystery and adventure that along with two main characters that are so well developed I did not want to put this book down!
Emma And William lives we’re destined to be entwined at a young age , an agreement between an English Earl and a Scottish Laird designed to strengthen their business relationship and ensure future success. However , how should a young women feel when she goes with her family to celebrate a friends birthday whom she has not seen in ten years to find out that she is also to be his bride.! Dumbfounded and feeling betrayed by her father she seeks William out to plead her case that she would like to marry for love, make her own choice and though William is enamored with Emma he understands because he would like to choose his own wife also. Taking the situation to his father and Emma,s father he finds his own father willing to work with them but Emma’s father and brother Thomas the exact opposite and being imposing and demanding only Triggering his need to protect this Bonny lass. The situation only worsens when while celebrating Williams birthday feast Emma.s father is murdered and Williams clan is blamed, setting off a series of events that lead to adventure and love! Worth the read do not miss out!
Lady Emma Marston was hiding from her governess Mrs. Briddle but she was watching the mock fight between her brother and their Highland visitor. Her brother Thomas who very seldom ever lost was losing to William MacNair. William had them on the ground with the practice sword at his throat and told him to give in Thomas replied never William laughed and stood up and turned his back to Thomas. Emma was watching Thomas and Thomas stood and moved to swipe William's legs out from under him and she called watch out them turned to catch her brothers unfair move William captured one of Thomas's legs and dropped him and Emma cheered in the Scott and the Scott thanked the wee rascal and Mrs. Briddle found her and carried her upstairs to get dressed. Emma decided to marry William when she got old enough. When Emma was informed that she was to be married to William MacNair she did not want to marry him or live in Scotland. She was given no choice and at the feast to celebrate their betrothal her father was murdered. To discover who killed her father and who was planning to kill William and whether with her and William would get together or not you have to read the book. It's a very good book...
Emma Marston, the daughter of the Earl of Dawaerton, has decided to marry her to William. He is the heir to the Laird of the MacNair. Emma was upset at first because she had not been told until they arrived at the castle. But she and William begin talking and become somewhat friends and there is an attraction. While they are celebrating, her father falls to the table, with foam coming from his mouth. He has been poisoned. Thomas, Emma's brother accuses the MacNair's of the poisoning of their father. This was an excellent read. It was humorous, and they spent a lot of time on the run. Thomas wanted to sell his sister to a French man for his wife. Needless to say, no way was she going to let him do this. I thought the characters were realistic and grew as the story went along. There are some surprises, twists, and turns. I found the book hard to put down. I loved the romance between the two characters, they were kind to each other and as the love grew, you could see the change in their relationship. they trusted and respected each other more each day. I received a free copy from the author and have willingly reviewed it.
William MacNair, only heir to the MacNair clan has known Emma Marston since she was six years old. Marriage arrangements have already been made for Emma, but she did not know this until it was time to go to Scotland to meet William MacNair again. At the celebration, for their betrothal Emma's father is poisoned. The Marston's leave immediately to return to England. William follows Emma because he has not only come to like her, but is very concerned about her safety. Thomas Marston,Emma's brother has become cruel in his ways of treating his family. Thomas has a serious mean streak running through him since childhood. Emma is running away, but William comes to rescue her. He already knows something is wrong with her brother,Thomas. Both Emma and William are in hiding now. William does not know where or what happened to his best friend. Emma's mother is being ill treated by her very own son, and Thomas is on the hunt still for his sister, Emma to satisfy his selfish and sadistic plans. This story is emotionally intense with great well written characters.Sizzling romantic moments, and the reader will have a hard time putting this book down.
What an enjoyable story of an arranged marriage that turned into true love. The story is moderately paced and when the suspenseful parts came along the pace quickened. There is plenty of drama, action and rough adventure. I really enjoyed the way the author wrote the characters. It was easy to get to know them and understand them. There was a part of a sadistic father mistreating his son that was sad. But the worse part was the young boy was broken and grew up into a very disturbed angry malicious man. Loyalty and trust were the key issues that bound the main characters together. The storyline is well written. The overall romance is woven under the story of murder, suspicion and blame. There are shocking revelations that come to light and it is devastating for all involved. I enjoyed reading about the time the hero and the heroine spent time together and got to know each other under the most dire and dangerous circumstances. The murder is solved, the H/h end up with their HEA. The extended epilogue was a boon as it leaped into the H/h future. A very good read that I do recommend.
I love Lydia Kendall's books because of the way she creates realistic and relatable characters and describes scenes that pull the reader into the story. William and Emma are great characters — brave, loyal, and devoted to one another.
The bad guys are pretty bad, especially one in particular, and though the reader comes to understand why he is the way he is, that doesn't excuse his behavior. Emma's mother is unexpectedly strong and her uncle Henry is a surprising savior. Ultimately, of course, William and Emma save themselves.
I would have given this book five stars except for a few inconsistencies. Without getting too specific, Thomas "realizes" something that he already knew, and Henry explains why he didn't tell someone something earlier, but he had. Also, I think the police should have been involved near the end, and I never quite understood Mrs. Biddle's motivations. Nevertheless, it's a good story, I enjoyed it, and I'd recommend it.
WILDLY INTENSE!!! Crap on toast! A pulsing, churning votex of staggering events and surprising blunders that propels every swirling emotion blasting into play while capturing your attention from start to finish. All the drama, uncertainty, danger and suspense keep you riveted on a razors edge. Lydia and Cobalt totally rocks this little jewel with 100% blazing storyline and gripping plot launch this page turning wonder together perfectly. Struggling with all the trials and tribulations while trying to navigate through rough waters brings this little gem to life flawlessly. The characters are authentic, believable and so realistic it's easy to relate. The scenes are so vividly detailed there's no trouble interpreting each scenario as they play off one another fluidly. Incredible job guys, thanks for sharing this little gem with us.
When Emma and her family went to Scotland to honor the Laird’s son’s birthday she found that she was to marry him. Meeting William he and she finally decided they would be a good match. At the dinner Emma’s father was poisoned. Emma’s brother now being the new Earl took Emma and her mother home and blamed the MacMair clan for the death. William and his friend followed Emma home to ensure her safety. Emma’s brother wanted Emma to marry a Frenchman or go to an asylum. William climbed a balcony to retrieve Emma and flee the area. To prove Emma’s brother Thomas was guilty William’s friend went to France to speak with the Frenchman. When all was done William, Emma and her mother that uncle went to get from Thomas went to see Thomas and a fight broke out and William killed Thomas. Finally the wedding did happen and all were happy.
The parents of Lady Emma and William of Clan McNair arranged their engagement 10 years ago without their knowledge. Lady Emma thought they were visiting to celebrate William's birthday, only to find out she is betrothed to him and it will be announced at his birthday celebration. A chance meeting between the two in the library, sparks fly and William wants to do right by Lady Emma. After meeting with their father's to wait on the announcement to no avail they decide to move on with the engagement. During the celebration, Lady Emma's father was poisoned and no one knows who or why! Her brother calls off the engagement to return home. William decides to follow the procession to make sure Lady Emma is safe from harm. Then the real journey begins... This story has it all- betrayal, drama, loyalty and most important love. It had wonderful character development, you will not put it down.
Disciplined by the Highlander by Lydia Kendall was a well written story, this is a story that will keep you turning the pages. There is a touch of mystery, drama and plenty of twists and turns that captures your attention. Emma and William are some really great characters, William really had me swooning he was just a delightful character. Emma and William are betrothed, but Emma is not happy with this she wants to marry for love. William is quite taken with Emma but is willing to speak to there fathers. This is where the real excitement and intrigue begins. This in my opinion was one great story, I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
This is the story of William and Emma. A marriage between Scotland and England was arranged. It did not happen in the beginning due to dire circumstances. This story grips you from the very beginning and continues throughout. There is action and suspense and mystery, lessons learned and love. The anticipation in this story is very high. What will happen next? The characters are great, as well as the plot. It is an extremely well written book. Anyone interested in a Scottish Romance Novel, this is the book for you. I'm sure you will be as pleased with it as I was.
I enjoyed this story a lot it has adventure, danger, mystery, betrayal, romance and strong characters who are believable and real. Emma travels to Scotland with her family to celebrate William's birthday only to told they are announcing her engagement to William. While there her father is murdered and his family is accused. Liked how the relationship developed between Emma and William and watching her grow. Recieved an ARC of this book and leaving my honest opinion.
I liked the story but was a little disappointed at the same time. I know that this period of time was very hard on women, but I felt that this girl didn't have any grit. She too easily accepted her fate in the beginning but stood up for herself a little later on. Anyway things just didn't add up. When I read I look for a little of the background to have some truth to it. Makes for better reading, I didn't find that I'm this book.
This historical romance will really get you going! So much going on. Marriage on--marriage off because Emma's father was murdered. Her brother takes over and he is really a bad guy. William follows them back to their home and finds he really has to protect Emma and ultimately her Mother!
This is a really fast read and I know I couldn't stop until I read the very last word. Of course I went on to read the extended story--happily ever after!!
An all consuming enjoyable story that drew you in to the plot: Lots going on in this romance murder mystery. I enjoyed William the best. Big strong and witty guy. They took us on a journey to find romance after an arranged marriage but had to deal with solving a murder also. Lots going on in this tory that has a lot of charm, charisma, romance and some humorous moments. The romance was just good but I could have enjoyed and bit more sizzle with this story. A stand alone read.
A roller coaster ride of twists and turns. This well-written storyline incorporates, an arranged marriage, murder mystery, suspense and romance set in the wonderful Highlands. Emma & William are both strong characters who must overcome many trials before they can reach their happy ever after. This is a book not to be missed.
Lady Emma Marston the daughter of the Earl of Dawaerton, England is betrothed to Scotsman William, future Laird of Clan MacNair. Their story has suspense, drama, danger, twists, turns, poison, murder, evil, a villain, and romance. They will have a lot to go through before they get their happy ending. A story I enjoyed reading.
Lydia Kendall has a flare for storytelling. This book has it all romance adventure betrayal and suspense. This is the 1st book that I have read by this author but it won't be the last. I would definitely recommend it to anyone over 18 due to steaminess. I received this ARC in exchange for a voluntary honest review which I have freely written herr
If you like Scot historical romance with betrayal and a murder mystery , this book is for YOU !! I found the plot kept me interested in both the budding romance and the suspense as to who actually did the murder. The characters are nicely defined and believable .
Nicely done , Lydia!
I recieved this book as an ARC and this is my honest thoughts and opinion of this work.
This is a great read, loved the story and the main characters. The murder mystery along with the love story were very enthralling. There were some editing issues, wrong names, but they weren't too bad. Not enough to detract from the story as I was easily able to plug in the right ones and edit as I read.
A gripping tale of love and trust between two people of different cultures. I read this book in one sitting. William and Emma were trapped up in intrigue hate and malice . Their love brought them safely through
Absolutely loved it! What adventure both William and Emma went on to find out who killed her father. This storyline was so devastating,exciting,intriguing and romantic. The ending was just perfect!!
I liked this book the story line flowed well and was believable The characters within seemed to come alive 😊and I found myself enjoying the read.I also liked the extended epilogue at the end which also provided a song that I played.Yes I got my monies worth.
Murder, accusations, engagement shattered, abuse and best of all pure love born from all this grief. You can fall into despair for William and Emma. Having to flee in orderly find the truth and gain justice.