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Scots and Swords #1
Highland Gladiator
Truth. Justice. Revenge. Behind these stands The Scotsman's Sword
Gladiator meets Fight Club in the Scottish Highlands in a new romance from USA Today bestselling author Kathryn Le Veque...
When Lor Careston's quiet Highland village was attacked and burned, he felt helpless against the raiders who destroyed his home. Seeking revenge, but lacking the fighting skills he needs to execute his mission, he sets out to find the Ludus Caledonia―a mysterious fight guild that turns men into warriors.
Lor trains hard, proves himself in the ring, and earns a place with the very clan that decimated his home, having decided to set his plan for revenge in motion from inside the clan. But his plan didn't include Isabail Keith, a fiery lass who prefers broadswords to embroidery and isn't afraid to stand with the warriors of her clan. Lor thought the Keiths were his enemies, but when Isabail is threatened, he'll have to decide what he's willing to risk for the woman who has captured his heart and the clan that has become his home.
Gladiator meets Fight Club in the Scottish Highlands in a new romance from USA Today bestselling author Kathryn Le Veque...
When Lor Careston's quiet Highland village was attacked and burned, he felt helpless against the raiders who destroyed his home. Seeking revenge, but lacking the fighting skills he needs to execute his mission, he sets out to find the Ludus Caledonia―a mysterious fight guild that turns men into warriors.
Lor trains hard, proves himself in the ring, and earns a place with the very clan that decimated his home, having decided to set his plan for revenge in motion from inside the clan. But his plan didn't include Isabail Keith, a fiery lass who prefers broadswords to embroidery and isn't afraid to stand with the warriors of her clan. Lor thought the Keiths were his enemies, but when Isabail is threatened, he'll have to decide what he's willing to risk for the woman who has captured his heart and the clan that has become his home.
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published August 25, 2020
232 people are currently reading
366 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Le Veque
325 books2,082 followersJuggernaut Indie author Kathryn Le Veque is a 'tour de force' in publishing.
Kathryn is a critically acclaimed 21-time USA TODAY Bestselling author, a charter Amazon All-Star author, an Indie Reader top seller, and a #1 bestselling, award-winning, multi-published author in Medieval Historical Romance with over 100 published novels.
Among her many accomplishments, she is the CEO of Dragonblade Publishing, the #1 Historical Romance e-book publisher on Amazon. In 2020, Kathryn collaborated with Sourcebooks publishing for a Medieval Fight Club series set in Scotland.
Kathryn is a critically acclaimed 21-time USA TODAY Bestselling author, a charter Amazon All-Star author, an Indie Reader top seller, and a #1 bestselling, award-winning, multi-published author in Medieval Historical Romance with over 100 published novels.
Among her many accomplishments, she is the CEO of Dragonblade Publishing, the #1 Historical Romance e-book publisher on Amazon. In 2020, Kathryn collaborated with Sourcebooks publishing for a Medieval Fight Club series set in Scotland.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
August 3, 2020
HIGHLAND GLADIATOR by Kathryn Le Veque is the first book in the Scots and Swords historical romance series and it is the first book that I have read by this author. It is set in Scotland in the late 1400’s. Lor Careston is a blacksmith working with his grandfather in a quiet Highland village when it is attacked and burned. He wishes to seek revenge, but lacks fighting skills. Will he gain them? Will he exact retribution upon those responsible?
The book is well-written with characters that have depth and there is an exciting plot. Lor and the main secondary characters are compelling and felt three-dimensional. There was enough at stake to keep me engaged throughout the story. The world-building was fantastic and gave a clear sense of time and place including medieval conflicts, ways of life, and more. Themes include family, relationships, grief, revenge, love, lies, romance, friendship, inner conflicts, secrets, and much more.
Overall, this was an engaging and fast-paced read with a few heated scenes, action-packed fight scenes, love that endures and an unbalanced antagonist. I would recommend it to those that enjoy historical romances with action scenes and are looking for a new series to start. I look forward to reading the next book in this series as well as checking out this author’s other books.
Thanks to SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca and Kathryn Le Veque for a digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
The book is well-written with characters that have depth and there is an exciting plot. Lor and the main secondary characters are compelling and felt three-dimensional. There was enough at stake to keep me engaged throughout the story. The world-building was fantastic and gave a clear sense of time and place including medieval conflicts, ways of life, and more. Themes include family, relationships, grief, revenge, love, lies, romance, friendship, inner conflicts, secrets, and much more.
Overall, this was an engaging and fast-paced read with a few heated scenes, action-packed fight scenes, love that endures and an unbalanced antagonist. I would recommend it to those that enjoy historical romances with action scenes and are looking for a new series to start. I look forward to reading the next book in this series as well as checking out this author’s other books.
Thanks to SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca and Kathryn Le Veque for a digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
July 14, 2020
Welcome to the Highlands in Kathryn Le Veque’s HIGHLAND GLADIATOR where revenge, justice and the truth become entangled in a kaleidoscope of action, duty and the power of love. Looking for powerful characters that jump off the pages, an atmosphere of raw survival, a romance that makes two people even strong together? It’s all here.
Lor lost everything when his village’s enemy attacked and slaughtered all he held dear and he has sworn vengeance. The only way to do that is to become the fiercest, most powerful and feared warrior in the land, but does the gentle blacksmith have the fortitude to let his plan play out?
When Lor discovers that all he believed true could be a lie, and his heart is stolen by his enemy’s strong-willed daughter, he must decide what the truth really is and who to trust.
It’s so refreshing to have strong characters that are not over-the-top, moments of humor, loyalty and to feel they are living beings caught up in a time when “might” and inner strength could be the difference between survival and death.
Great reading, a wonderful escape! Well-written storytelling!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Sourcebooks Casablanca! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Series: Scots and Swords - Book 1
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (August 25, 2020)
Publication Date: August 25, 2020
Genre: Historical Romance
Print Length: 314 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Lor lost everything when his village’s enemy attacked and slaughtered all he held dear and he has sworn vengeance. The only way to do that is to become the fiercest, most powerful and feared warrior in the land, but does the gentle blacksmith have the fortitude to let his plan play out?
When Lor discovers that all he believed true could be a lie, and his heart is stolen by his enemy’s strong-willed daughter, he must decide what the truth really is and who to trust.
It’s so refreshing to have strong characters that are not over-the-top, moments of humor, loyalty and to feel they are living beings caught up in a time when “might” and inner strength could be the difference between survival and death.
Great reading, a wonderful escape! Well-written storytelling!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Sourcebooks Casablanca! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Series: Scots and Swords - Book 1
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (August 25, 2020)
Publication Date: August 25, 2020
Genre: Historical Romance
Print Length: 314 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
August 24, 2020
Of clans, betrayals and revenge!______2.5
Sometimes I find medieval highland novels bleak. Given what's happening in Lor Careston's life, times are definitely bleak. The ray of sunshine is the feisty young girl child he'd met years before in 1476 when taking a short cut through the Vale of Morning dubbed by the locals as the Vale of Demons. Unknown to Lor, that child was Isabail Keith, the daughter of the chieftain of Auchnacree. As the years move forward to 1484 they renew their acquaintance, and the attraction between them blooms in secret.
When Lor returns from a neighboring town he discovers his village destroyed and his beloved grandfather dead, supposedly at the hands of Clan Keith. Lor's mind cannot get beyond his anguish and need for vengeance. He looks for help from Drostan Lindsay who suggests he seek warrior training at a gladiator school Lor had heard about years before.
The idea of a gladiator school in the highlands is an interesting hook for the series background. The school was established in 1453 by Sir Clegg de Lave. The "Ludus Caledonia quickly becomes the center of battles for entertainment, but also for opportunity—if a warrior wins, a lord may offer him a lucrative, military position."
Meanwhile Niall Keith, accompanied by Isabail and her brothers, journey to the Ludus seeking a warrior who can train their men and lead them to stave off the harassment of their people and the erosion of their lands at the hands of Clan Lindsay.
Lor sees a chance for his personal vendetta against Clan Keith to come to fruition, but what of his feelings for the fiery, independent Isabail?
Now I really appreciated the character of Isabail but I found Lor somewhat wooden.
I couldn't help but compare this first in the series of Scots and Swordsmen to Monica McCarty's series Highland Guard series about the training of highland warriors, although here in Scots and Swords we have the Roman gladiator school twist. Despite that interesting premise, for me this just wasn't a sleek enough story rendition to gain my undivided attention.
A Sourcebooks Casablanca ARC via NetGalley
Please note: Quotes taken from an advanced reading copy maybe subject to change
Sometimes I find medieval highland novels bleak. Given what's happening in Lor Careston's life, times are definitely bleak. The ray of sunshine is the feisty young girl child he'd met years before in 1476 when taking a short cut through the Vale of Morning dubbed by the locals as the Vale of Demons. Unknown to Lor, that child was Isabail Keith, the daughter of the chieftain of Auchnacree. As the years move forward to 1484 they renew their acquaintance, and the attraction between them blooms in secret.
When Lor returns from a neighboring town he discovers his village destroyed and his beloved grandfather dead, supposedly at the hands of Clan Keith. Lor's mind cannot get beyond his anguish and need for vengeance. He looks for help from Drostan Lindsay who suggests he seek warrior training at a gladiator school Lor had heard about years before.
The idea of a gladiator school in the highlands is an interesting hook for the series background. The school was established in 1453 by Sir Clegg de Lave. The "Ludus Caledonia quickly becomes the center of battles for entertainment, but also for opportunity—if a warrior wins, a lord may offer him a lucrative, military position."
Meanwhile Niall Keith, accompanied by Isabail and her brothers, journey to the Ludus seeking a warrior who can train their men and lead them to stave off the harassment of their people and the erosion of their lands at the hands of Clan Lindsay.
Lor sees a chance for his personal vendetta against Clan Keith to come to fruition, but what of his feelings for the fiery, independent Isabail?
Now I really appreciated the character of Isabail but I found Lor somewhat wooden.
I couldn't help but compare this first in the series of Scots and Swordsmen to Monica McCarty's series Highland Guard series about the training of highland warriors, although here in Scots and Swords we have the Roman gladiator school twist. Despite that interesting premise, for me this just wasn't a sleek enough story rendition to gain my undivided attention.
A Sourcebooks Casablanca ARC via NetGalley
Please note: Quotes taken from an advanced reading copy maybe subject to change
August 17, 2020
***4 Stars***
Historical romance isn’t something I tend to be drawn to, at least not in recent years, but sometimes one pops up and my curiosity is peaked, or in this case, the author kept popping up on various sites and seeing that this was a first in series, I decided to give it a go and I gotta say, I really enjoyed it spending time in the Highlands and learning all about the Ludus Caledonia.
I loved Lor and Isabail. Lor is a sweetheart. I’m not sure if he’d be alright with that description, but he is. He is also a hard worker and once he gets his barings, he is a force to be reckoned with. Isabail is fierce. She isn’t a meek, stay at home type of woman. She is independent and honest and has no problem speaking her mind. Their journey to their HEA as, at it’s heart, a sweet one despite the circumstances surrounding them. I loved how they balanced each other out and how they simply liked the other for exactly who they were, not who they thought they should be.
This was a fun read. The writing was engaging, pacing good and I really liked being in both Lor and Isabail’s heads and getting to see how they viewed the world around them. The concept of the Ludus Caledonia was pretty cool and I definitely want to dig deeper into all that goes on there...and speaking digging deeper. There were quite a few characters that peaked my interest like Clegg, Axel, Milo and even Wendell, but it’s Galan I really want to know more about, so I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for the next book in the series!
~ Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley & voluntarily reviewed ~
Historical romance isn’t something I tend to be drawn to, at least not in recent years, but sometimes one pops up and my curiosity is peaked, or in this case, the author kept popping up on various sites and seeing that this was a first in series, I decided to give it a go and I gotta say, I really enjoyed it spending time in the Highlands and learning all about the Ludus Caledonia.
I loved Lor and Isabail. Lor is a sweetheart. I’m not sure if he’d be alright with that description, but he is. He is also a hard worker and once he gets his barings, he is a force to be reckoned with. Isabail is fierce. She isn’t a meek, stay at home type of woman. She is independent and honest and has no problem speaking her mind. Their journey to their HEA as, at it’s heart, a sweet one despite the circumstances surrounding them. I loved how they balanced each other out and how they simply liked the other for exactly who they were, not who they thought they should be.
This was a fun read. The writing was engaging, pacing good and I really liked being in both Lor and Isabail’s heads and getting to see how they viewed the world around them. The concept of the Ludus Caledonia was pretty cool and I definitely want to dig deeper into all that goes on there...and speaking digging deeper. There were quite a few characters that peaked my interest like Clegg, Axel, Milo and even Wendell, but it’s Galan I really want to know more about, so I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for the next book in the series!
~ Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley & voluntarily reviewed ~
August 5, 2020
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Stunning and outstanding!
I adored this book , it was everything I hoped for and more.
Brilliant characters with great chemistry and passion.
A storyline that was so satisfying, I just couldn’t have been any better.
I love Highland adventures , this was one I’ll definitely be coming back to again and again.
Book Number Two is already on my Preorder list.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋
Stunning and outstanding!
I adored this book , it was everything I hoped for and more.
Brilliant characters with great chemistry and passion.
A storyline that was so satisfying, I just couldn’t have been any better.
I love Highland adventures , this was one I’ll definitely be coming back to again and again.
Book Number Two is already on my Preorder list.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
August 13, 2020
I give this book 2.5 stars.
It was an interesting concept to merge two different historical civilizations; Roman gladiator fighting and Scottish clan wars. I was intrigued with how the author would combine two very different and bloody cultures and find a way to bring about romance. The romance was cute, but the rest was pretty muddled.
Lor and Isabail seemed destined since their first meeting as youths when she knocked him on his butt and demanded payment for crossing into what she deemed as her territory. It had a star-crosses lovers feel to it where they knew they belonged to different clans, but they couldn’t stop thinking about each other. And like most star-crosses lovers, they meet and fall fast. I could have used a bit more backstory; less a “zing” to the heart, more why you actually fall for each other. But it was cute for what it was.
What I had a problem with was the merging of Roman fighting with Scottish clan wars. It didn’t make sense. Why was there a “secret” Roman gladiator training facility hidden in Scotland? And I say “secret” because apparently everyone and their mom knew about it. It was this elite place to train warriors and was apparently exclusive to get into. However, anyone could just come and watch the gladiators fight so that they could purchase them for themselves; to train their warriors or to fight for them.
And I guess Lor happened to be such a prodigy that he got purchased to train a clan only after training there for like two months (if that). He was big and strong, but he had no previous fighting experience and zero technique. Isabail had to tell him how to win a match while she was there watching him, so I guess the trainers weren’t that good either. Also, he has some serious bounce-back from beat-downs. He got his butt whooped his first fight, yet he wasn’t feeling any pain or soreness and was ready to take on his next match the next day. Kind of hard to believe.
How was this novice supposed to train men to fight? Then when he got to where he was supposed to be and he was ready to take his vengeance...meh. Anti-climactic. The author was pushing Lor’s vengeance for so long that I was waiting for some big fight scene or payoff and I was sorely disappointed.
I was looking for Spartacus meets Outlander and didn’t get anywhere near that.
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for releasing this ARC to me in exchange for an honest review.
It was an interesting concept to merge two different historical civilizations; Roman gladiator fighting and Scottish clan wars. I was intrigued with how the author would combine two very different and bloody cultures and find a way to bring about romance. The romance was cute, but the rest was pretty muddled.
Lor and Isabail seemed destined since their first meeting as youths when she knocked him on his butt and demanded payment for crossing into what she deemed as her territory. It had a star-crosses lovers feel to it where they knew they belonged to different clans, but they couldn’t stop thinking about each other. And like most star-crosses lovers, they meet and fall fast. I could have used a bit more backstory; less a “zing” to the heart, more why you actually fall for each other. But it was cute for what it was.
What I had a problem with was the merging of Roman fighting with Scottish clan wars. It didn’t make sense. Why was there a “secret” Roman gladiator training facility hidden in Scotland? And I say “secret” because apparently everyone and their mom knew about it. It was this elite place to train warriors and was apparently exclusive to get into. However, anyone could just come and watch the gladiators fight so that they could purchase them for themselves; to train their warriors or to fight for them.
And I guess Lor happened to be such a prodigy that he got purchased to train a clan only after training there for like two months (if that). He was big and strong, but he had no previous fighting experience and zero technique. Isabail had to tell him how to win a match while she was there watching him, so I guess the trainers weren’t that good either. Also, he has some serious bounce-back from beat-downs. He got his butt whooped his first fight, yet he wasn’t feeling any pain or soreness and was ready to take on his next match the next day. Kind of hard to believe.
How was this novice supposed to train men to fight? Then when he got to where he was supposed to be and he was ready to take his vengeance...meh. Anti-climactic. The author was pushing Lor’s vengeance for so long that I was waiting for some big fight scene or payoff and I was sorely disappointed.
I was looking for Spartacus meets Outlander and didn’t get anywhere near that.
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for releasing this ARC to me in exchange for an honest review.
August 26, 2020
Rating: 4 Highland stars
Kathryn Le Veque is a new-to-me author, but she is not new to the Medieval Historical Romance genre. According to her biographical information on Goodreads, she is the “#1 ranked English Medieval Romance Author on Amazon.” She has multiple Historical Romance series, and they are ALL very highly rated. This book, “Highland Gladiator” is the first book in her new “Scot and Swords” series. This was a fun book that lived up to the stellar reputation Ms. Le Veque has built for herself.
Set in the Scottish Highlands during the late 1400’s, this book is at its heart a Historical Romance. Lor Careston and Isabail meet as teenagers. A band of hooligans accosts Lor. The hooligans turn out to be Keiths who are the sworn enemies of the Lor’s Lindsay clan. It is a brief encounter. Isabail lets Lor go after getting him to promise that he would return with promised birds’ eggs for her. Neither Lor nor the Keith clan teenagers reveal which clan they belong to.
Fast-forward eight years to when Lor sees the brilliant red hair of Isabail on market day. Lor helps her with a transaction, and their relationship is off and running. As the days progress, they learn more about each other. However, neither is willing to share their clan affiliation. They are star-crossed lovers without realizing it.
After just a few clandestine meetings, tragedy strikes. While he is away, Lor’s village of Careston is burned to the ground. His beloved grandfather is nowhere to be found in the ashes of the village. Heartbroken and without any kin, the even-tempered blacksmith is goaded into seeking out an organization that trains warriors. His ultimate goal is to wreak havoc against those he believes caused the ruin and bloodshed in his village, the Keiths. Lor is admitted to the Ludus Caledonia where he learns the skills of a gladiator.
That’s it for plotline details. Some things are better left unsaid. It is so much more fun to discover them on your own. This was romance did have fight scenes and a dastardly villain. It contains explicit adult content. The fight scenes were not gratuitous (I am squeamish about violence.) The love scenes were not overdone. I was pulled into the lives of Lor and Isabail as they tried to traverse the clan loyalties. They were both intelligent and honorable characters that I loved meeting.
This was a fun break from my current spate of dark psychological thrillers. I would recommend this for readers who enjoy well-written Historical Romances. The writing reputation that Kathryn Le Veque has made for herself is spot on. I enjoyed my jaunt to the Scottish Highlands. I eagerly await my return the Highlands when book two in this series is published. Until then, I am looking forward to reading some of the other books in Ms. Le Veque’s large catalog of books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher via NetGalley. These are my honest thoughts.
Kathryn Le Veque is a new-to-me author, but she is not new to the Medieval Historical Romance genre. According to her biographical information on Goodreads, she is the “#1 ranked English Medieval Romance Author on Amazon.” She has multiple Historical Romance series, and they are ALL very highly rated. This book, “Highland Gladiator” is the first book in her new “Scot and Swords” series. This was a fun book that lived up to the stellar reputation Ms. Le Veque has built for herself.
Set in the Scottish Highlands during the late 1400’s, this book is at its heart a Historical Romance. Lor Careston and Isabail meet as teenagers. A band of hooligans accosts Lor. The hooligans turn out to be Keiths who are the sworn enemies of the Lor’s Lindsay clan. It is a brief encounter. Isabail lets Lor go after getting him to promise that he would return with promised birds’ eggs for her. Neither Lor nor the Keith clan teenagers reveal which clan they belong to.
Fast-forward eight years to when Lor sees the brilliant red hair of Isabail on market day. Lor helps her with a transaction, and their relationship is off and running. As the days progress, they learn more about each other. However, neither is willing to share their clan affiliation. They are star-crossed lovers without realizing it.
After just a few clandestine meetings, tragedy strikes. While he is away, Lor’s village of Careston is burned to the ground. His beloved grandfather is nowhere to be found in the ashes of the village. Heartbroken and without any kin, the even-tempered blacksmith is goaded into seeking out an organization that trains warriors. His ultimate goal is to wreak havoc against those he believes caused the ruin and bloodshed in his village, the Keiths. Lor is admitted to the Ludus Caledonia where he learns the skills of a gladiator.
That’s it for plotline details. Some things are better left unsaid. It is so much more fun to discover them on your own. This was romance did have fight scenes and a dastardly villain. It contains explicit adult content. The fight scenes were not gratuitous (I am squeamish about violence.) The love scenes were not overdone. I was pulled into the lives of Lor and Isabail as they tried to traverse the clan loyalties. They were both intelligent and honorable characters that I loved meeting.
This was a fun break from my current spate of dark psychological thrillers. I would recommend this for readers who enjoy well-written Historical Romances. The writing reputation that Kathryn Le Veque has made for herself is spot on. I enjoyed my jaunt to the Scottish Highlands. I eagerly await my return the Highlands when book two in this series is published. Until then, I am looking forward to reading some of the other books in Ms. Le Veque’s large catalog of books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher via NetGalley. These are my honest thoughts.
September 2, 2024
The actual writing style and some of characters development felt a bit surface level for me - if that’s a good way to explain it?
But those are the only things that let it down because honestly, I really enjoyed the story of this book! It was interesting and different to my normal HR.
Lor worked hard to become the man he ended up becoming. Issie was a fiery character that was independent, but was also supportive of Lor in ways you wouldn’t expect her to. Issie always had a soft spot for Lor, from when they were kids and this matured into adulthood.
“Lor Careston was stuff of dreams. Even that young lass of years ago knew that” ❤️
It just took me awhile to read as it was between me travelling to the Cook Islands and losing my e-reader for a spell! I’m definitely considering reading the next book too cause the Ludus Caledonia (Fight Guild) really intrigues me and so does the next storyline
But those are the only things that let it down because honestly, I really enjoyed the story of this book! It was interesting and different to my normal HR.
Lor worked hard to become the man he ended up becoming. Issie was a fiery character that was independent, but was also supportive of Lor in ways you wouldn’t expect her to. Issie always had a soft spot for Lor, from when they were kids and this matured into adulthood.
“Lor Careston was stuff of dreams. Even that young lass of years ago knew that” ❤️
It just took me awhile to read as it was between me travelling to the Cook Islands and losing my e-reader for a spell! I’m definitely considering reading the next book too cause the Ludus Caledonia (Fight Guild) really intrigues me and so does the next storyline
August 16, 2020
Tensions and clan loyalty run high in medieval Scotland. Yet in this tumultuous time a love the likes of Romeo and Juliet sparks as two youths meet in a vale between territories… separated by their clans, Lor and Isabail come to meet again years later and no longer children. The spark is still there until clan warfare burns down Lor’s village and destroys his family.
Now For must push aside romance and seek vengeance for his family. First, he must learn to fight… he ventures to the secretive Scottish fighting guild and pledges his allegiance to learn their ways and methods. After months of training he is surprised to see Isabail and her family appear at the guild in want of a warrior… to seek justice from his clan!
This story was fill ed with action and sweet romance! Lor was a warrior but a he had the true heart of a cinnamon roll hero! Isabail was a tough take no crap lady who got things done. I loved how she had all the men afraid of her and jumping to do her bidding.
I adore a second chance love story and these two definitely deserved their hard earned HEA in the end. A fun paring from the start; it was joy to watch the character evolve and mature as the story progressed.
I wasn’t sure how much I would be into a series based around a fighting guild, but I am hooked! The guild and its leader were fascinating and I can’t wait to hear more stories of theses wayward wares finding HEA’s!
Highland Gladiator by Kathryn Le Veque is scheduled to release August 25th, 2020.
Thanks so much to Sourcebooks Casablanca for gifting me with my review copy. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#HighlandGladiator #KathrynLeVeque #NetGalley #pinkcowlandreads
Now For must push aside romance and seek vengeance for his family. First, he must learn to fight… he ventures to the secretive Scottish fighting guild and pledges his allegiance to learn their ways and methods. After months of training he is surprised to see Isabail and her family appear at the guild in want of a warrior… to seek justice from his clan!
This story was fill ed with action and sweet romance! Lor was a warrior but a he had the true heart of a cinnamon roll hero! Isabail was a tough take no crap lady who got things done. I loved how she had all the men afraid of her and jumping to do her bidding.
I adore a second chance love story and these two definitely deserved their hard earned HEA in the end. A fun paring from the start; it was joy to watch the character evolve and mature as the story progressed.
I wasn’t sure how much I would be into a series based around a fighting guild, but I am hooked! The guild and its leader were fascinating and I can’t wait to hear more stories of theses wayward wares finding HEA’s!
Highland Gladiator by Kathryn Le Veque is scheduled to release August 25th, 2020.
Thanks so much to Sourcebooks Casablanca for gifting me with my review copy. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#HighlandGladiator #KathrynLeVeque #NetGalley #pinkcowlandreads
August 24, 2020
Highland Gladiator by Kathryn Le Veque
Scots and Swords #1
Lor is no warrior. A blacksmith that cares deeply for his father and village, but is also ready to find love. His village is attacked, burned and he is filled with rage. He has heard of a place that will make warriors of men, and he goes to hone his skills. There, he reunites with the lass Isabail, that has caught his heart.
Give this a try if you're in the mood for:
-Scottish romance – both the hero and heroine are from different highland clans
-Rival families – Lor is warned about the Keiths, who are Isabail's family
-Revenge plot – Lor seeks revenge due to the attack on his village
-Mixture of romance and action
-Medium steam – a few kisses and a few scenes. They are explicit but more poetry filled scenes than a detailed account of actions (amount and locations attached at the end of review under spoiler warning)
This was my first Kathryn Le Veque. I have wanted to try her for so long. But I wasn't in love with this story. I wasn't really in love with either character, though they were okay. There were quite a few separations of the main characters. I guess I could see them falling in love with each other, but at the same time I felt zero sexual tension in their relationship. That is one of the most important features for me in a romance I love so that knocked stars for me.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC. All of these thoughts regarding this story are my own opinions.
Specific locations in book of kisses/scenes
Scots and Swords #1
Lor is no warrior. A blacksmith that cares deeply for his father and village, but is also ready to find love. His village is attacked, burned and he is filled with rage. He has heard of a place that will make warriors of men, and he goes to hone his skills. There, he reunites with the lass Isabail, that has caught his heart.
Give this a try if you're in the mood for:
-Scottish romance – both the hero and heroine are from different highland clans
-Rival families – Lor is warned about the Keiths, who are Isabail's family
-Revenge plot – Lor seeks revenge due to the attack on his village
-Mixture of romance and action
-Medium steam – a few kisses and a few scenes. They are explicit but more poetry filled scenes than a detailed account of actions (amount and locations attached at the end of review under spoiler warning)
This was my first Kathryn Le Veque. I have wanted to try her for so long. But I wasn't in love with this story. I wasn't really in love with either character, though they were okay. There were quite a few separations of the main characters. I guess I could see them falling in love with each other, but at the same time I felt zero sexual tension in their relationship. That is one of the most important features for me in a romance I love so that knocked stars for me.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC. All of these thoughts regarding this story are my own opinions.
Specific locations in book of kisses/scenes
July 24, 2020
Highland Gladiator (Scots and Swords Book 1) by Kathryn Le Veque 4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Creative storyline of a smithy who trains to be a gladiator warrior for vengeance, and a heroine who’s battle trained, strong, intelligent, and resilient. I enjoyed the multiple plots filled with angst, secrets, lies, danger, deception, intrigue, and the sweet passion of romance. If you love historical romance you’ll love this one!
Happy Reading ♥️
Adult Content.
Creative storyline of a smithy who trains to be a gladiator warrior for vengeance, and a heroine who’s battle trained, strong, intelligent, and resilient. I enjoyed the multiple plots filled with angst, secrets, lies, danger, deception, intrigue, and the sweet passion of romance. If you love historical romance you’ll love this one!
Happy Reading ♥️
Adult Content.
August 24, 2020
A gentle blacksmith turned vengeful gladiator and a fiery clan chieftain's daughter from rival clans must navigate a few storms to love in the medieval Scottish Highlands. Highland Gladiator caught my eye both for its title and author. I've been meaning to read something of hers since spotting fabulous reviews from fellow book lovers.
Lor comes from a small Highland village and is content to learn his grandfather's blacksmith trade and stay out of the always boiling clan conflicts until the day a vicious attack on his village sets him on a new path- the path to future revenge and the Ludus Caledonia. He once heard of this old Roman-style fight training school and he is determined to learn to fight and take an exacting price for the loss of his grandfather. It is only when he has a second encounter with the fiercely independent Isabail Keith that an equally strong conflicting emotion enters him and the straight path starts to twist and give him choices.
Isabail is taken with Lor from the beginning. He sees her warrior's heart and doesn't judge, but accepts. She sees his gentle soul, but also the steel running through him so doesn't underestimate him like her brother and others. Her clan needs fighting men and a visit to the gladiator school brings her face to face with a now grown up and trained Lor who is hardened and determined. Can she make him see that they belong and that he can get to the heart of the betrayal by joining with her people instead of against them?
Highland Gladiator seemed like a great blend of two historic worlds that I enjoy. I loved that the setting is medieval Scotland, but the Ludus Caledonia also brings a smidge of the Roman Empire to things. This was my first experience with the author's writing and I loved her attention to historical setting and that the gladiators side wasn't just a flash in the pan. There was good action and fighting in the story and a good villain that had Lor fooled. That said, it was a well-built love story and character journey. The author paced it well and didn't stint on developing an all-around strong first in series.
I liked both lead characters from the beginning. Lor was a sweet heart and I just knew this guy was going to go through some heartache. He wanted to be left alone at his simple life and it was obvious that some villain was going to come along and smash all that. It happens swiftly and Lor loses his grandfather in it all. He thinks he knows who is responsible, but to the reader, there is enough to see that it's not cut and dry and that adds to the action side of the plot. Lor is willing to take a long-term approach by getting taught how to fight so he can do the job right. And, yes, he's convinced that it's Isabail's clan and, that's fair, because I wasn't sure at first, either. They are a rowdy fighting group. I thought his training time and time with the other men was as fascinating and engaging as I hoped it would be while it set up for the rest of the series.
As to Isabail, she's pretty special, too. She is a warrior at heart and it was funny how she has all the men cowed because she's skilled and good at the craft, too. She has a good head on her shoulders though and is a worthy leader. I loved that she fell for Lor when she first thought he was a poor village blacksmith and then didn't let this background change her feelings about him years later. They really saw each other and there was respect even when they were from rival clans and Lor was dead-set on his revenge. There is no sappy Romeo and Juliet going on here and I was grateful for that, but we do get some good spicy sexy times.
Highland Gladiator was even better than I anticipated and I was pretty excited about it. I can't wait to see the other men of the Ludus Caledonia getting their stories. I loved the way the author blended action, suspense, historical backdrop, complex characters, and romance all together. I've had her books on my shelf for years and now I know what I've been missing. I can definitely recommend this one to other Highland romance fans.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Lor comes from a small Highland village and is content to learn his grandfather's blacksmith trade and stay out of the always boiling clan conflicts until the day a vicious attack on his village sets him on a new path- the path to future revenge and the Ludus Caledonia. He once heard of this old Roman-style fight training school and he is determined to learn to fight and take an exacting price for the loss of his grandfather. It is only when he has a second encounter with the fiercely independent Isabail Keith that an equally strong conflicting emotion enters him and the straight path starts to twist and give him choices.
Isabail is taken with Lor from the beginning. He sees her warrior's heart and doesn't judge, but accepts. She sees his gentle soul, but also the steel running through him so doesn't underestimate him like her brother and others. Her clan needs fighting men and a visit to the gladiator school brings her face to face with a now grown up and trained Lor who is hardened and determined. Can she make him see that they belong and that he can get to the heart of the betrayal by joining with her people instead of against them?
Highland Gladiator seemed like a great blend of two historic worlds that I enjoy. I loved that the setting is medieval Scotland, but the Ludus Caledonia also brings a smidge of the Roman Empire to things. This was my first experience with the author's writing and I loved her attention to historical setting and that the gladiators side wasn't just a flash in the pan. There was good action and fighting in the story and a good villain that had Lor fooled. That said, it was a well-built love story and character journey. The author paced it well and didn't stint on developing an all-around strong first in series.
I liked both lead characters from the beginning. Lor was a sweet heart and I just knew this guy was going to go through some heartache. He wanted to be left alone at his simple life and it was obvious that some villain was going to come along and smash all that. It happens swiftly and Lor loses his grandfather in it all. He thinks he knows who is responsible, but to the reader, there is enough to see that it's not cut and dry and that adds to the action side of the plot. Lor is willing to take a long-term approach by getting taught how to fight so he can do the job right. And, yes, he's convinced that it's Isabail's clan and, that's fair, because I wasn't sure at first, either. They are a rowdy fighting group. I thought his training time and time with the other men was as fascinating and engaging as I hoped it would be while it set up for the rest of the series.
As to Isabail, she's pretty special, too. She is a warrior at heart and it was funny how she has all the men cowed because she's skilled and good at the craft, too. She has a good head on her shoulders though and is a worthy leader. I loved that she fell for Lor when she first thought he was a poor village blacksmith and then didn't let this background change her feelings about him years later. They really saw each other and there was respect even when they were from rival clans and Lor was dead-set on his revenge. There is no sappy Romeo and Juliet going on here and I was grateful for that, but we do get some good spicy sexy times.
Highland Gladiator was even better than I anticipated and I was pretty excited about it. I can't wait to see the other men of the Ludus Caledonia getting their stories. I loved the way the author blended action, suspense, historical backdrop, complex characters, and romance all together. I've had her books on my shelf for years and now I know what I've been missing. I can definitely recommend this one to other Highland romance fans.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 26, 2020
Another enjoyable historical read by Ms. Le Veque! I like how she combines history with romance, feisty heroines and irresistible heroes! Isabail and Lor meet when they are young and we see how their romance blossoms as they grow, from infatuation to love. However, their clans do not mix and they keep their meetings secret. Lor was a blacksmith, with no interest in learning to fight, but that changed. Lor becomes hardened by the murdering of his village, seeking vengeance on those who killed his grandfather. Lor becomes rather tangled between his revenge and love for Isabail. Isabail never thought a man would see beyond her unladylike abilities, but she has no interest of sitting on the sidelines. She is knowledgeable in defending herself and knows what she wants and lets nothing get in her way. When you find the one you love, you never let them go and Lor will have to decide what means more to him.
I received this novel as an ARC from net galley and the publisher. Thank you! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received this novel as an ARC from net galley and the publisher. Thank you! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 7, 2020
Highland Gladiator by Kathryn Le Veque
Kathryn Le Veque has the writer’s touch when it comes to Highland Clan Romance & English Sword Fighting Battles! However, she has nailed it again with this new Gladiator ultimate secret training center! The Ludus Caledonia fight guild not only gave him the physical training skills of hand to hand combat, but it released the inner spiritedness of his strength. It was as if a bond of harmony between his soul and strength became one connection. This Highland Gladiator, Lor is beyond belief! He is like a mythical God! He is a gentle giant giant with a caring heart, with a face of Adonis and strength of Hercules!
Lor is a untroubled blacksmith and has no greed. He doesn’t see a need to use your brute force because he has no desire to harm others unless he is in defense of his family or his life. Lor doesn’t know how to fight well or with swords or shields. He does know how to use his fists if absolutely necessary. He is just not a violent man, until someone burns his village and within was the only parent he ever knew, his grandfather. That is why he turned to the secret, Ludus Caledonia to teach him how to fight for vengeance!
I just love love Kathryn Le Veque’s LOR! He is my hero! I found that I identified with Lor because he has so many traits that my husband has! My husband is very humble and will do anything for anyone! People like and respect his opinions because he is very fair , but know that he will protect you when it’s necessary. He was military for 23 years and he did see battle and he would die for his family and country, so like Lor they know when it’s time to step up to the plate, but they don’t have to be bullies!
Isabail the love of his life is the exact opposite of him! She is brassy and sassy! She is also a fighter with very good skills and is known to beat up her own brothers. She was even passed over by a suitor because she wasn’t feminine enough!! How sad for someone who that is a tomboy, but still beautiful to be told that because you are better than me at shooting a gun I don’t want you!! I can spell and read faster than my husband, but he can do math problems and put together a entertainment center! We are perfect examples of a couple who are a mix match because he is quiet and laid back and I am more gregarious. I am always outside in the sun and I swim. He likes working in his shop and watching TV . I taught our son to play baseball and fish and he taught him to shoot and watch cartoons!
Lor & Isabail are going to be a great couple like that as well!!! But that is what keeps a relationship interesting and moving forward your differences and the way you make things mesh together!!!
Isabail was a fierce child and a leader even from a young age because she was motherless. She was authoritative, but not mean. When she and Lor met she knew that they were from rival clans and she was careful not to mention her clan name. A lot of women will identify with her because she is not catty or devious. Isabail is straight forward and methodical and what you see is what you get! Isabail knew that when she wanted her father to do something or to get something it was all about how she presented it She realized that her clan needed not someone with brute force, but someone who also had wit and craftiness and most of all she wanted Lor! In my eyes Isabail was only being shrewd and sensible, and perceptive in how to put it across to her father in the right way. There was nothing manipulative about it in my opinion!
I personally think readers are going to root for Lor & Isabail!
I won’t go into the book because that will give too much away!!! Just know this is another epic winner!!!
I received a advanced copy from netgally and I willingly give my thoughts and opinions freely!!!!
Kathryn Le Veque has the writer’s touch when it comes to Highland Clan Romance & English Sword Fighting Battles! However, she has nailed it again with this new Gladiator ultimate secret training center! The Ludus Caledonia fight guild not only gave him the physical training skills of hand to hand combat, but it released the inner spiritedness of his strength. It was as if a bond of harmony between his soul and strength became one connection. This Highland Gladiator, Lor is beyond belief! He is like a mythical God! He is a gentle giant giant with a caring heart, with a face of Adonis and strength of Hercules!
Lor is a untroubled blacksmith and has no greed. He doesn’t see a need to use your brute force because he has no desire to harm others unless he is in defense of his family or his life. Lor doesn’t know how to fight well or with swords or shields. He does know how to use his fists if absolutely necessary. He is just not a violent man, until someone burns his village and within was the only parent he ever knew, his grandfather. That is why he turned to the secret, Ludus Caledonia to teach him how to fight for vengeance!
I just love love Kathryn Le Veque’s LOR! He is my hero! I found that I identified with Lor because he has so many traits that my husband has! My husband is very humble and will do anything for anyone! People like and respect his opinions because he is very fair , but know that he will protect you when it’s necessary. He was military for 23 years and he did see battle and he would die for his family and country, so like Lor they know when it’s time to step up to the plate, but they don’t have to be bullies!
Isabail the love of his life is the exact opposite of him! She is brassy and sassy! She is also a fighter with very good skills and is known to beat up her own brothers. She was even passed over by a suitor because she wasn’t feminine enough!! How sad for someone who that is a tomboy, but still beautiful to be told that because you are better than me at shooting a gun I don’t want you!! I can spell and read faster than my husband, but he can do math problems and put together a entertainment center! We are perfect examples of a couple who are a mix match because he is quiet and laid back and I am more gregarious. I am always outside in the sun and I swim. He likes working in his shop and watching TV . I taught our son to play baseball and fish and he taught him to shoot and watch cartoons!
Lor & Isabail are going to be a great couple like that as well!!! But that is what keeps a relationship interesting and moving forward your differences and the way you make things mesh together!!!
Isabail was a fierce child and a leader even from a young age because she was motherless. She was authoritative, but not mean. When she and Lor met she knew that they were from rival clans and she was careful not to mention her clan name. A lot of women will identify with her because she is not catty or devious. Isabail is straight forward and methodical and what you see is what you get! Isabail knew that when she wanted her father to do something or to get something it was all about how she presented it She realized that her clan needed not someone with brute force, but someone who also had wit and craftiness and most of all she wanted Lor! In my eyes Isabail was only being shrewd and sensible, and perceptive in how to put it across to her father in the right way. There was nothing manipulative about it in my opinion!
I personally think readers are going to root for Lor & Isabail!
I won’t go into the book because that will give too much away!!! Just know this is another epic winner!!!
I received a advanced copy from netgally and I willingly give my thoughts and opinions freely!!!!
August 2, 2020
Highland Gladiator is the first book in the Scots and Swords series by Kathryn Le Veque and what a fabulous start to a series it is.
Lor Careston a blacksmith with his grandfather, first met Isabail Keith when they were just children. It was an unforgettable first meeting, one that neither of them has forgotten. When they meet again as adults their friendship rekindles and it isn't long before they realise that they are in love. She won't tell him which clan she is from which tells him it can't be one allied to his own, but regardless, he won't let allegiances come between them. Their love has to take a back seat though after Lor's home and village are burned to the ground and its people murdered by an enemy clan while Lor was away buying supplies for the blacksmith. He has never been a fighter but in his desolation and anger, Lor knows he must become one if he is to avenge his people and his grandfather.
He was told once about a place called the Ludus Caledonia the ultimate fighting guild where if you can find the place and are invited in you can be trained to be a strong warrior. Each man starts off as a novice and fights his way up the ranks. Lors knows he isn't a fighter but is determined to be trained to be the best so that he can get his revenge on the clan who he believes are the ones who ransacked his village. The clan that could very well be the one that Isabail is part of.
I am not going to say anything else about the storyline because I want you to read first-hand what happens after Lor leaves. Is he accepted into the Ludus, will he be a strong warrior, does he get his revenge? What of Isabail, will they see each other again, will their love be strong enough to survive if Lor is correct that she is part of an enemy clan?
This story is a real page-turner. I really enjoyed the scenes at the Ludus Caledonia. There were no fights to the death there, thank goodness. The fight scenes were really well written and I had to hold my breath a few times when some of those attacks landed between the fighters. I loved watching Lor develop throughout the story and yet still keep his more emotional side, the side that Isabail fell in love with. Their romance was beautiful, passionate and I couldn't help but read quickly to find out what the future would hold for them. There are also a couple of subplots in the book which are very emotional too. I won't say what they are, but suffice to say you might just need a tissue or two for both happy and sad tears.
I can't fault this story at all and I cannot wait to read the next books in the series as they are released.
Lor Careston a blacksmith with his grandfather, first met Isabail Keith when they were just children. It was an unforgettable first meeting, one that neither of them has forgotten. When they meet again as adults their friendship rekindles and it isn't long before they realise that they are in love. She won't tell him which clan she is from which tells him it can't be one allied to his own, but regardless, he won't let allegiances come between them. Their love has to take a back seat though after Lor's home and village are burned to the ground and its people murdered by an enemy clan while Lor was away buying supplies for the blacksmith. He has never been a fighter but in his desolation and anger, Lor knows he must become one if he is to avenge his people and his grandfather.
He was told once about a place called the Ludus Caledonia the ultimate fighting guild where if you can find the place and are invited in you can be trained to be a strong warrior. Each man starts off as a novice and fights his way up the ranks. Lors knows he isn't a fighter but is determined to be trained to be the best so that he can get his revenge on the clan who he believes are the ones who ransacked his village. The clan that could very well be the one that Isabail is part of.
I am not going to say anything else about the storyline because I want you to read first-hand what happens after Lor leaves. Is he accepted into the Ludus, will he be a strong warrior, does he get his revenge? What of Isabail, will they see each other again, will their love be strong enough to survive if Lor is correct that she is part of an enemy clan?
This story is a real page-turner. I really enjoyed the scenes at the Ludus Caledonia. There were no fights to the death there, thank goodness. The fight scenes were really well written and I had to hold my breath a few times when some of those attacks landed between the fighters. I loved watching Lor develop throughout the story and yet still keep his more emotional side, the side that Isabail fell in love with. Their romance was beautiful, passionate and I couldn't help but read quickly to find out what the future would hold for them. There are also a couple of subplots in the book which are very emotional too. I won't say what they are, but suffice to say you might just need a tissue or two for both happy and sad tears.
I can't fault this story at all and I cannot wait to read the next books in the series as they are released.
August 10, 2020
This book was a pleasant surprise for me, as I wasn't sure what to expect and went into it thinking it might feel like a story I had read before. However, although the story started off slow, I loved how it picked up in the second half, and I was thoroughly invested in the characters. There is a lot of drama, but there's not so much that the story is overwhelmed by it. It has a bit of a Romeo and Juliet feel to it, without the tragic ending (because romances have HEAs, of course). The cover is insanely attractive, and I was expecting a bit more "hunky gladiator" in the hero, but as the story progressed, I realized that there was a lot more to this hero than his ability to wield a sword and fight in gladiatorial combat.
Lor Careston and Isabail Keith are not supposed to know each other, let alone be meeting in secret. After meeting as children and then reconnecting years later, their passion sparks quickly, and soon they are beginning to plan a future together. However, Isabail hasn't told Lor who she really is. When tragedy strikes while Lor is away from the village, Isabail fears he is dead. Lor returns to his village devastated, realizing that his grandfather has most likely been killed, and is told that the perpetrators are the rebel Keiths, who live outside the village. He tries to go to Isabail, not realizing that she is a Keith herself, and unable to find her, travels to the Ludus Caledonia, a fighting guild that will allow him to build the skills necessary to destroy his grandfather's murderers. Soon the two lovers reunite, but as secrets are revealed and true love is tested, their futures may not be as bright as they once hoped for.
This story was insta-love, which isn't usually my cup of tea. However, the way the author wrote it still drew me in, and although initially it felt like a teenage romance doomed to fail, I soon realized that there was much more to this story than meets the eye. The secret that lay between Lor and Isabail was devastating, and as the reader, you know about it long before either of them realize it. So the reading is a big agonizing while you're waiting for the shoe to drop and wondering how they're going to take it. Once Lor finds out the truth about Isabail's identity, things begin to speed up considerably. His internal struggle was painful, but it was good to see how he reacted and then how Isabail reacted once she caught up to speed.
Kathryn Le Veque is an engaging writer, who clearly has done her homework on the historical components of the story. I look forward to reading more by her.
**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.**
Lor Careston and Isabail Keith are not supposed to know each other, let alone be meeting in secret. After meeting as children and then reconnecting years later, their passion sparks quickly, and soon they are beginning to plan a future together. However, Isabail hasn't told Lor who she really is. When tragedy strikes while Lor is away from the village, Isabail fears he is dead. Lor returns to his village devastated, realizing that his grandfather has most likely been killed, and is told that the perpetrators are the rebel Keiths, who live outside the village. He tries to go to Isabail, not realizing that she is a Keith herself, and unable to find her, travels to the Ludus Caledonia, a fighting guild that will allow him to build the skills necessary to destroy his grandfather's murderers. Soon the two lovers reunite, but as secrets are revealed and true love is tested, their futures may not be as bright as they once hoped for.
This story was insta-love, which isn't usually my cup of tea. However, the way the author wrote it still drew me in, and although initially it felt like a teenage romance doomed to fail, I soon realized that there was much more to this story than meets the eye. The secret that lay between Lor and Isabail was devastating, and as the reader, you know about it long before either of them realize it. So the reading is a big agonizing while you're waiting for the shoe to drop and wondering how they're going to take it. Once Lor finds out the truth about Isabail's identity, things begin to speed up considerably. His internal struggle was painful, but it was good to see how he reacted and then how Isabail reacted once she caught up to speed.
Kathryn Le Veque is an engaging writer, who clearly has done her homework on the historical components of the story. I look forward to reading more by her.
**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.**
August 28, 2020
Kathryn Le Veque takes readers to Medieval Scotland for an emotional saga of clan feuds, a special place that trains only the best warriors, and a man and woman destined to love only one another. I couldn't put it down.
Le Veque created such a perfectly detailed sense of time and place in this book that I was immersed completely into the lives of those living in the fifteenth century Scottish Highlands. Her characters are fully formed, fully engaging me in their lives. I loved Lor (an endearing hero with a transformative journey) and Isabail (a formidable, take-no-prisoners warrior in her own right) and their sweet, some might say, destined romance. I experienced their journeys with them, laughing, crying, cringing, and loathing (a particularly despicable villain). I may have cheered at the way in which the author served up justice in the case of that despicable villain.
The first half of the book was a bit slow while stages were set and characters formed but by the time the action picked up around the mid-point I was fully invested in both Isabail and Lor and the challenges they faced. Surrounding the main couple is a vividly depicted cast of secondary characters who propel the story forward, helping to reveal characters' hidden depths, of Lor in particular. I enjoyed the brotherhood at Ludus Caledonia and the friendships Lor formed there. Isabail's family provided splashes of humor, with siblings who show pesky brothers have been around in every century, and a father whose reaction to a question from Lor had me laughing out loud. Then there's Lor's grandfather who adds a particularly poignant secondary story line to the mix.
The tag line for this series is "Gladiator meets Fight Club in the Scottish Highlands" which sets pretty high expectations for this lover of Scottish historical romance. Le Veque met my expectations in this emotion-packed story that left me sighing with satisfaction and eagerly anticipating the next book in her Scots and Swords series. That book, Highland Defender, is scheduled to be released January 21, 2021.
4.5 stars
*ARC received via NetGalley for fair and unbiased review
Le Veque created such a perfectly detailed sense of time and place in this book that I was immersed completely into the lives of those living in the fifteenth century Scottish Highlands. Her characters are fully formed, fully engaging me in their lives. I loved Lor (an endearing hero with a transformative journey) and Isabail (a formidable, take-no-prisoners warrior in her own right) and their sweet, some might say, destined romance. I experienced their journeys with them, laughing, crying, cringing, and loathing (a particularly despicable villain). I may have cheered at the way in which the author served up justice in the case of that despicable villain.
The first half of the book was a bit slow while stages were set and characters formed but by the time the action picked up around the mid-point I was fully invested in both Isabail and Lor and the challenges they faced. Surrounding the main couple is a vividly depicted cast of secondary characters who propel the story forward, helping to reveal characters' hidden depths, of Lor in particular. I enjoyed the brotherhood at Ludus Caledonia and the friendships Lor formed there. Isabail's family provided splashes of humor, with siblings who show pesky brothers have been around in every century, and a father whose reaction to a question from Lor had me laughing out loud. Then there's Lor's grandfather who adds a particularly poignant secondary story line to the mix.
The tag line for this series is "Gladiator meets Fight Club in the Scottish Highlands" which sets pretty high expectations for this lover of Scottish historical romance. Le Veque met my expectations in this emotion-packed story that left me sighing with satisfaction and eagerly anticipating the next book in her Scots and Swords series. That book, Highland Defender, is scheduled to be released January 21, 2021.
4.5 stars
*ARC received via NetGalley for fair and unbiased review
August 20, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. I was hooked with the story once I began and could not put it down until I finished it. I normally don’t read these types of books but something about it caught my attention and I am glad I took the time to read it.
Lor and Isabell met when they are young and are also from two different clans. He is a grandson of a blacksmith or smithy she from the clan in the hills. Though he was not to be where he is now caught, she lets him go after a little banter back and forth. They met again older and he is still attracted to her and she to him they agree to meet another day and this goes on for a few days. Until one day he is told by his grandfather to go to another town to exchange what they bought for the better. When he returns his town, the village has been destroyed and he believes his grandfather is dead. He also believes Isabel’s clan is the one who attacked his village.
He goes to a place he heard about when he was younger to hopefully train to be a fighter a warrior. Not knowing how you are picked. It is months later when Isabel and her father and brothers go to this same place for, they want to buy, purchase a warrior for their clan. when she sees him after thinking he had died in the attack as well, she meets him secretly and the fighter she is helping him to be a better one.
The story continues their and then when they leave. He finds out some other happenings that surprise him as well as when you get towards the end you are surprised at how everything is happening. There is so much to this story that you must read it to see and experience the journey yourself. Following Lor and Isabel was a fun and fantastic read and had everything you want in a book. I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 5 stars. Follow us at
www.1rad-readerreviews.com
Lor and Isabell met when they are young and are also from two different clans. He is a grandson of a blacksmith or smithy she from the clan in the hills. Though he was not to be where he is now caught, she lets him go after a little banter back and forth. They met again older and he is still attracted to her and she to him they agree to meet another day and this goes on for a few days. Until one day he is told by his grandfather to go to another town to exchange what they bought for the better. When he returns his town, the village has been destroyed and he believes his grandfather is dead. He also believes Isabel’s clan is the one who attacked his village.
He goes to a place he heard about when he was younger to hopefully train to be a fighter a warrior. Not knowing how you are picked. It is months later when Isabel and her father and brothers go to this same place for, they want to buy, purchase a warrior for their clan. when she sees him after thinking he had died in the attack as well, she meets him secretly and the fighter she is helping him to be a better one.
The story continues their and then when they leave. He finds out some other happenings that surprise him as well as when you get towards the end you are surprised at how everything is happening. There is so much to this story that you must read it to see and experience the journey yourself. Following Lor and Isabel was a fun and fantastic read and had everything you want in a book. I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 5 stars. Follow us at
www.1rad-readerreviews.com
October 23, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up
Blacksmith Lor Careston has lived a simple, peaceful life in a quiet village in the Scottish Highlands with his grandfather, Nikolaus. But when he returns from a supply run to find his village burned and Nikolaus missing and presumed dead, Lor is determined to have vengeance. Even though it means leaving behind the girl he loves, Lor decides he must learn to fight and travels to the Lowlands to seek out the Ludus Caledonia, a fight flub shrouded in mystique and mystery, but known for turning out warriors.
Lor quickly proves himself as a fighter and soon finds himself swearing fealty to the clan who destroyed his home, the Keiths, with the intention of destroying them from within. But when he learns his love, Isabail, is the daughter of the Keith laird, Lor finds his drive for vengeance tested, especially when it seems he may have been totally wrong about the clan who has since welcomed him as one of their own.
Somehow this was my first read from Kathryn LeVeque and I really did enjoy it. This was refreshing and different from what I’ve read before and I loved Lor as a hero. I also appreciated that Isabail was such a strong, fierce heroine, but she never unmanned Lor; if anything, she only showed just how strong he really was. These two were sweet together, but this was definitely low on the romance side with more emphasis on the action and fights. Nonetheless, I loved that Lor and Isabail kept proving themselves and their love for each other, always choosing each other and refusing to be separated. That was lovely and I’ll likely continue the series hoping to see more examples of such strong devotion.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Blacksmith Lor Careston has lived a simple, peaceful life in a quiet village in the Scottish Highlands with his grandfather, Nikolaus. But when he returns from a supply run to find his village burned and Nikolaus missing and presumed dead, Lor is determined to have vengeance. Even though it means leaving behind the girl he loves, Lor decides he must learn to fight and travels to the Lowlands to seek out the Ludus Caledonia, a fight flub shrouded in mystique and mystery, but known for turning out warriors.
Lor quickly proves himself as a fighter and soon finds himself swearing fealty to the clan who destroyed his home, the Keiths, with the intention of destroying them from within. But when he learns his love, Isabail, is the daughter of the Keith laird, Lor finds his drive for vengeance tested, especially when it seems he may have been totally wrong about the clan who has since welcomed him as one of their own.
Somehow this was my first read from Kathryn LeVeque and I really did enjoy it. This was refreshing and different from what I’ve read before and I loved Lor as a hero. I also appreciated that Isabail was such a strong, fierce heroine, but she never unmanned Lor; if anything, she only showed just how strong he really was. These two were sweet together, but this was definitely low on the romance side with more emphasis on the action and fights. Nonetheless, I loved that Lor and Isabail kept proving themselves and their love for each other, always choosing each other and refusing to be separated. That was lovely and I’ll likely continue the series hoping to see more examples of such strong devotion.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 17, 2020
I really enjoyed this story, though it took me a few chapters to really get into the characters. It seemed rushed for the romance right off, but once the story got past the burning of Lor Caresten’s village, and you have him traveling to the fight guild known as Ludus Caledonia, his character becomes much more rounded, and you feel his pain, his motivation, and his love for the the woman from the Kieth clan that his clan has been rivals with generations.
Isabail Keith is a character that is a strong female who is believable to have existed in the time period, though she would have been atypical of most women. Though I feel the story was focused more on the story of Lor and his revenge, I loved it when the point of view was more from Isabail’s perspective. I would have loved to have had more scenes with her, including the gap years from when the two first meet as children, and when they meet again as adults.
I also felt the background stories of some of the minor characters were well done, and could have had their own stories. Which, since this is first in the series, might actually happen. It would be fun to explore them further. Especially those from the Ludus Caledonia.
Overall, this was a well done romance with enjoyable characters, and a well told narrative. If one is reading this, and feels like I did in the first couple chapters, hang on, the ride gets way better. It is worth sticking with the story.
I have not read from this author before, but this first in series whets my appetite for others by her. I highly recommend this book as a nice romantic getaway.
Isabail Keith is a character that is a strong female who is believable to have existed in the time period, though she would have been atypical of most women. Though I feel the story was focused more on the story of Lor and his revenge, I loved it when the point of view was more from Isabail’s perspective. I would have loved to have had more scenes with her, including the gap years from when the two first meet as children, and when they meet again as adults.
I also felt the background stories of some of the minor characters were well done, and could have had their own stories. Which, since this is first in the series, might actually happen. It would be fun to explore them further. Especially those from the Ludus Caledonia.
Overall, this was a well done romance with enjoyable characters, and a well told narrative. If one is reading this, and feels like I did in the first couple chapters, hang on, the ride gets way better. It is worth sticking with the story.
I have not read from this author before, but this first in series whets my appetite for others by her. I highly recommend this book as a nice romantic getaway.
August 25, 2020
When Lor Careston's quiet Highland village was attacked and burned, he felt helpless against the raiders who destroyed his home. Seeking revenge, but lacking the fighting skills he needs to execute his mission, he sets out to find the Ludus Caledonia—a mysterious fight guild that turns men into warriors. Lor trains hard, proves himself in the ring, and earns a place with the very clan that decimated his home, having decided to set his plan for revenge in motion from inside the clan. His plan didn't include Isabail Keith, a fiery lass who prefers broadswords to embroidery and isn't afraid to stand with the warriors of her clan.
The first book in a new series & what a series starter! Not a book to start late in the day if you want to sleep. I found it extremely hard to put down & read it in two sittings. Very well written with vivid descriptions & the characters practically jump out of the page at you. The pace is soo good & Lor & Isabail are wonderful, the chemistry is electric & I absolutely loved their journey to their HEA. I can't wait for the next book in the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The first book in a new series & what a series starter! Not a book to start late in the day if you want to sleep. I found it extremely hard to put down & read it in two sittings. Very well written with vivid descriptions & the characters practically jump out of the page at you. The pace is soo good & Lor & Isabail are wonderful, the chemistry is electric & I absolutely loved their journey to their HEA. I can't wait for the next book in the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
August 25, 2020
Highland Gladiator (Scots and Swords Book 1) by Kathryn Le Veque is a new and exciting series. A romance with, revenge, justice, a demented sociopath, familiar ties, great fight scenes, and an epic love story.
Take a trip to Medieval Scotland to meet, Lor Careston and Isabail Keith on an epic Medieval Scottish Romance. A gripping love story, that's sure to capture a reader's heart.
Filled with dramatic fight scenes, passion, greed, love, and romance. The ending is emotional and compelling.
Another well written and well crafted story, with characters that have depth and strength to endure all that's thrown their way. MAGNIFICENT read! I can't wait for Book 2 of this exciting and intriguing new series. Well done, Kathryn Le Veque!!
#NetGalley,#HighlandGadiator, #KathrynLeVeque,#SourcebooksCasablanca
"I voluntarily received a complimentary copy, however, these are my honest opinions. I was in no way required nor compensated to write a review."
Rating: 5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewer: AprilR
Take a trip to Medieval Scotland to meet, Lor Careston and Isabail Keith on an epic Medieval Scottish Romance. A gripping love story, that's sure to capture a reader's heart.
Filled with dramatic fight scenes, passion, greed, love, and romance. The ending is emotional and compelling.
Another well written and well crafted story, with characters that have depth and strength to endure all that's thrown their way. MAGNIFICENT read! I can't wait for Book 2 of this exciting and intriguing new series. Well done, Kathryn Le Veque!!
#NetGalley,#HighlandGadiator, #KathrynLeVeque,#SourcebooksCasablanca
"I voluntarily received a complimentary copy, however, these are my honest opinions. I was in no way required nor compensated to write a review."
Rating: 5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewer: AprilR
August 29, 2020
What's not to love? A gorgeous cover, author Kathryn LeVeque, a hero name Lor, and first book in a new series, Scots & Swords... Yes you have it right! Pure adventure and bliss!
They met when younger and then again years later. Lor knew that he wanted to marry her, but did not know much about her. Isabail was part of a clan warring with many others and she could only watch as Lor's village was burned down and all were dead. Her dream was gone.
Lor was a blacksmith in his village following in his grandfather's footsteps. He had never been trained to fight because her had no need for it in his profession. But with the burning of his village and the death of his grandfather, her was determined.
The Ludus Caledonia, a powerful and profitable gambling guild, modeled on the gladiatorial schools of ancient Rome. Training men to be some of the fiercest warriors and Lor was going to be one of them..
A story of deceit, secrets, heartache told by famed storyteller Kathryn Le Veque that will pull you in and not let go. It stole my heart!
They met when younger and then again years later. Lor knew that he wanted to marry her, but did not know much about her. Isabail was part of a clan warring with many others and she could only watch as Lor's village was burned down and all were dead. Her dream was gone.
Lor was a blacksmith in his village following in his grandfather's footsteps. He had never been trained to fight because her had no need for it in his profession. But with the burning of his village and the death of his grandfather, her was determined.
The Ludus Caledonia, a powerful and profitable gambling guild, modeled on the gladiatorial schools of ancient Rome. Training men to be some of the fiercest warriors and Lor was going to be one of them..
A story of deceit, secrets, heartache told by famed storyteller Kathryn Le Veque that will pull you in and not let go. It stole my heart!
February 1, 2021
Unfortunately, the story just felt a bit superficial to me. There's instalove, so the MCs relationship is based on very little, but after only two meetings, Lor's repeating "Only ye" to Isabail constantly.
Lor goes to this fight guild, agrees to a seven year "contract," but after only a few weeks of training, he's considered good enough to be hired out to train and protect another clan.
After vowing and training to destroy the Keith clan that killed his grandfather, he arrives within the Keith and they tell him that his own clan is actually responsible for his grandfather's death, with hard no evidence, and he believes them. It took almost nothing for him to thrown aside his entire vendetta against the Keith and turn on his own clan.
And then the entire climax of the book
Frankly the book felt like the author was just churning out another book and going through the motions.
Lor goes to this fight guild, agrees to a seven year "contract," but after only a few weeks of training, he's considered good enough to be hired out to train and protect another clan.
After vowing and training to destroy the Keith clan that killed his grandfather, he arrives within the Keith and they tell him that his own clan is actually responsible for his grandfather's death, with hard no evidence, and he believes them. It took almost nothing for him to thrown aside his entire vendetta against the Keith and turn on his own clan.
And then the entire climax of the book
Frankly the book felt like the author was just churning out another book and going through the motions.
September 13, 2021
A blacksmith looking for revenge against the clan that burned his village and killed his grandfather, seeks the Ludus Caledonia to train to be a warrior. Only the woman from the clan he hates causes the inner turmoil of love versus hate. Little does he know that the hated clan who bought him to fight will be his salvation. Kathryn Le Veque once again writes an engaging fast paced book of medieval conflict and romance. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
August 30, 2021
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Highland Gladiator is the first book of the first series to be taken on by Sourcebooks Casablanca for this author. I am so impressed with this book and I am not sure why it took me so long to read this one because dang Kathryn Le Veque really took this one to the bank on this book. Now I have read previous works from her but I am so happy to see so many readers becoming introduced to her due to this series. She is one of the best talents in historical romance today and she really delves into the settings and eras most authors don't brave. And I love seeing what she did with this book and it definitely was everything that I needed in a book especially in a historical. While I have had some hit or misses with historical romance this year, this one definitely took the cake for me and I couldn't get enough of it.
Highland Gladiator is a story which features:
Lor Careston-Blacksmith, birdkeeper, honest working man that becomes a fighter and gladiator and warrior for his people
Isabail Keith-daughter of the woodland clans, sweet but a defender and fighter, and devoted to the boy and man she knows in Lor.
Highland Gladiator starts off with our two love interests meeting as children and then later meeting as adults as they are more mature but still sweet on each other. Lor is the grandson of a renowned blacksmith for his people and is maturing and ready to take over fully. And then he sees the girl he once teased and played with that fateful day in a full-grown woman and his interest is clear. Even though their families don't approve of the match, they meet in secret and form a bond with each other that is strong and fierce but sweet and loving. But they are willing to find what they are made of but neither Lor nor Isabail ever realized how their love would be tested, and tested in ways that will put their love to the test. When they are separated when Lor's village is attacked and he believes his grandfather is killed, he leaves it all and unable to find Isabail he heads up north to find Ludus Caledonia, a fighting guild that will teach him how to fight, become a warrior, and claim his revenge. But roads to revenge are never what they seem to be and he will have to make a choice, the woman he loves and claiming his sought-after revenge.
Highland Gladiator was such a fierce and passionate love tale and I just wanted more of it. Immersing myself into this book helped me realize how much I MISS reading this author and I am not even sure why I even stopped reading her. I think there are so many books that it can be easy to let some books easily slip through the cracks. And to be honest I just didn't know what this book contained, and hadn't read many reviews of this one, so wasn't sure if I would ever be in the right mood for this but let me tell you.....I should have just read it a year ago and I feel like *banging my head against a wall* in how I should have done this way sooner. I honestly couldn't get enough of this pair. Now I will say that I highly recommend listening to this one, the narration is on point. Brad Wills is one of the best talents I have ever seen in my time of audiobook listening. He just has the perfect deep tone for a medieval, and really handles the dialogue and accents of all the cast members so flawlessly, every time I listen to him, I am amazed by it.
Now Highland Gladiator is a tale of revenge and love and how these two concepts can intermingle especially when the plot builds in such a way. I was intrigued to see how this would develop here and Kathryn LeVeque didn't disappoint. I found the pairing's love story to be so captivatingly sweet yet fierce. I love what they were willing to sacrifice for each other. And your heart just aches to see what they have to face with each other, and I did like that when secrets are kept, it's not done overlong and take up so much of the story. The author really balances out these concepts just perfectly. There are such honest vibes in this relationship, I love that they can sense when something is wrong with the other and the transparency they have for each other is really beautiful. You just don't see that too often in romance. I liked to see where the focus of the conflict in the story was centered on. And then we get our introduction to the fight guild and man I was HOOKED on this fighting guild. Because highlanders plus gladiator training, tactics and fight matches---YES, please. I just wanted to cheer Lor on in his training and fighting matches. This author definitely raised the level where these are concerned. And I hope to see this publisher take on more of this author's books.
Overall I found Highland Gladiator to be a vibrant realistic view on this era, the truths behind clan wars, it contains a unique setup of intrigue, a well-developed revenge subplot, and a romance that showcases the value of fighting for your love in a time where it could come at a great cost....MAGNIFICENT
Highland Gladiator is the first book of the first series to be taken on by Sourcebooks Casablanca for this author. I am so impressed with this book and I am not sure why it took me so long to read this one because dang Kathryn Le Veque really took this one to the bank on this book. Now I have read previous works from her but I am so happy to see so many readers becoming introduced to her due to this series. She is one of the best talents in historical romance today and she really delves into the settings and eras most authors don't brave. And I love seeing what she did with this book and it definitely was everything that I needed in a book especially in a historical. While I have had some hit or misses with historical romance this year, this one definitely took the cake for me and I couldn't get enough of it.
Highland Gladiator is a story which features:
Lor Careston-Blacksmith, birdkeeper, honest working man that becomes a fighter and gladiator and warrior for his people
Isabail Keith-daughter of the woodland clans, sweet but a defender and fighter, and devoted to the boy and man she knows in Lor.
Highland Gladiator starts off with our two love interests meeting as children and then later meeting as adults as they are more mature but still sweet on each other. Lor is the grandson of a renowned blacksmith for his people and is maturing and ready to take over fully. And then he sees the girl he once teased and played with that fateful day in a full-grown woman and his interest is clear. Even though their families don't approve of the match, they meet in secret and form a bond with each other that is strong and fierce but sweet and loving. But they are willing to find what they are made of but neither Lor nor Isabail ever realized how their love would be tested, and tested in ways that will put their love to the test. When they are separated when Lor's village is attacked and he believes his grandfather is killed, he leaves it all and unable to find Isabail he heads up north to find Ludus Caledonia, a fighting guild that will teach him how to fight, become a warrior, and claim his revenge. But roads to revenge are never what they seem to be and he will have to make a choice, the woman he loves and claiming his sought-after revenge.
I faithfully swear to do all that is commanded of me, All that is required of me, And all that is asked of me. May I live both to fight and to protect my brethren. May God smile upon me and grant me courage So that I may not fail myself nor those around me. Thus it is spoken, thus it shall be done.
Highland Gladiator was such a fierce and passionate love tale and I just wanted more of it. Immersing myself into this book helped me realize how much I MISS reading this author and I am not even sure why I even stopped reading her. I think there are so many books that it can be easy to let some books easily slip through the cracks. And to be honest I just didn't know what this book contained, and hadn't read many reviews of this one, so wasn't sure if I would ever be in the right mood for this but let me tell you.....I should have just read it a year ago and I feel like *banging my head against a wall* in how I should have done this way sooner. I honestly couldn't get enough of this pair. Now I will say that I highly recommend listening to this one, the narration is on point. Brad Wills is one of the best talents I have ever seen in my time of audiobook listening. He just has the perfect deep tone for a medieval, and really handles the dialogue and accents of all the cast members so flawlessly, every time I listen to him, I am amazed by it.
Now Highland Gladiator is a tale of revenge and love and how these two concepts can intermingle especially when the plot builds in such a way. I was intrigued to see how this would develop here and Kathryn LeVeque didn't disappoint. I found the pairing's love story to be so captivatingly sweet yet fierce. I love what they were willing to sacrifice for each other. And your heart just aches to see what they have to face with each other, and I did like that when secrets are kept, it's not done overlong and take up so much of the story. The author really balances out these concepts just perfectly. There are such honest vibes in this relationship, I love that they can sense when something is wrong with the other and the transparency they have for each other is really beautiful. You just don't see that too often in romance. I liked to see where the focus of the conflict in the story was centered on. And then we get our introduction to the fight guild and man I was HOOKED on this fighting guild. Because highlanders plus gladiator training, tactics and fight matches---YES, please. I just wanted to cheer Lor on in his training and fighting matches. This author definitely raised the level where these are concerned. And I hope to see this publisher take on more of this author's books.
Overall I found Highland Gladiator to be a vibrant realistic view on this era, the truths behind clan wars, it contains a unique setup of intrigue, a well-developed revenge subplot, and a romance that showcases the value of fighting for your love in a time where it could come at a great cost....MAGNIFICENT
November 24, 2024
Vengeance and love! I grabbed this out of pure curiosity and almost entirely as a joke. It was to my shock this novels storyline was so incredibly well written. I was so invested in Lor and Is. Please read this!
December 26, 2021
I don’t want to put any spoilers in my review. But one thing I will say is that the story seemed incredibly rushed. From the romance side there was zero hesitation and immediately love. I do enjoy a little bit of turmoil when it comes to romances. I didn’t find the sparks particularly electric & they both new and accepted the “love”.
The character development of Lor was FAST. He went from a shy unsure Smithy to a Roman style gladiator within a few short months. That’s the other portion of the story I did not quite get into. I personally did not enjoy the Roman Scottish highbred vibe of the book. However I do like the idea of a cross culture secret to fight club.
It seems as though the Roman style fight club could have been fleshed out more to make more sense. The book took until page 200 before I was really interested. It was an enjoyable read and I intend to read the next two of the series. However it definitely was not a book that I thought about reading every moment.
The character development of Lor was FAST. He went from a shy unsure Smithy to a Roman style gladiator within a few short months. That’s the other portion of the story I did not quite get into. I personally did not enjoy the Roman Scottish highbred vibe of the book. However I do like the idea of a cross culture secret to fight club.
It seems as though the Roman style fight club could have been fleshed out more to make more sense. The book took until page 200 before I was really interested. It was an enjoyable read and I intend to read the next two of the series. However it definitely was not a book that I thought about reading every moment.
July 22, 2020
Reseña en español: https://unalectorasalvaje.blogspot.co...
4/5
I love from the bottom of my heart everything related to the Scottish Highlands, especially in the time period where the clans still existed, because of the Outlander tv series and books. Recently, I have also become quite a huge fan of gladiators because I saw the Spartacus tv series that broke me into a thousand pieces. When I discovered this book, in which the title brings forward that it mixes this two themes that I adore, I knew right away that I needed to read it and that I was going to enjoy it.
Highland Gladiator is the first installment in the Scots and Swords series in which each book follows a different bunch of characters so they can be read separately. Nevertheless, I would recommend to follow the order of publication in case there are references or characters that appear in the following books of the series.
When he was a wee lass, Lor met a girl from the mountains near his home called Isabail. They took different paths but, some time later, they find each other again and start feelings things and becoming closer. Then Lor’s villa is attacked because of some conspiracy and the young man thinks that his grandfather, the one that has been taking care of him for his entire life, died in that attack. He doesn’t have anything left so he decides to look for the Ludus Caledonia, a place where man are turned into warriors because Lor wants to avenge his home and his grandfather. What he doesn’t know is that, maybe, he is planning to hurt the wrong people.
Highland Gladiator has two main characters with pretty different personalities. On one hand, Lor is a blacksmith that has to learn how to fight to become this warrior that will allow him to get his vengeance. He is a very honorable, humble man with his feet on the ground and that evolves a lot throughtout the pages. I think that he is a solid character with complexity and also connected a lot with him. He has this soft and beautiful heart that just made me fall in love with him.
On the other hand, Isabail is the daughter of the clan Keith’s chief that grew up learning strategy and warfare with her two brothers. What shoul I tell you about her? I adored her attitude and her strength to stand up whenever she feels something is not okay. It’s true that at the beginning I didn’t completely trust her but she earned my respect and my love pretty quickly. I think she is a good protagonist even though she is not as complex as Lor is.
Apart from them, there are this huge amount of side characters with different roles in the story. I particulary loved Lor’s mates in the Ludus Caledonia and I would have loved to get to know them better because they were really interesting and the author doesn’t really explore them. I also really liked Lor’s grandfather because he has a plot for himself that I didn’t expect and that I ended up enjoying a lot.
Historical fiction with some romance has become one of my favourite genres in the past few months and Highland Gladiator has earned a place in this list of incredible novels inside this genre that I love. It mixes political tensions and betrayals with the way the Ludus where gladiators train works and also with a pretty intense romance. The romance has importance within the story but these other themes also have relevance and are explored quite a lot. It’s obvious that the author did an extraordinary job at doing research about this period of time and about the culture and the costumes because the details that she brings in the book are very accurate.
This is the first book that I read of this author and I assure you that it won’t be my last. She has a pretty direct and simple writing style because, at the same time, it is elegant and with a lot of intensity that made me feel the same things as the characters. The dialogues are entertaining and I think that the action scenes are fast paced and easy to read without being confusing or something like that. I have to admit that some chapters were kind of slow but, in general, the pacing is good and I ended this book in a couple of days. It was an enjoyable reading.
As I have just mentioned, the romance is one of the foundations of this book so I wanted to talk a little bit about it. I consider that it is kind of rushed, the feelings begin to early in the story and when they don’t know each other much so it was kind of hard to believe it. I ended up liking their love story in spite of this beginning that I didn’t like as much. Lor and Isabail are so different that the interactions between them are so funny and interesting.
4/5
I love from the bottom of my heart everything related to the Scottish Highlands, especially in the time period where the clans still existed, because of the Outlander tv series and books. Recently, I have also become quite a huge fan of gladiators because I saw the Spartacus tv series that broke me into a thousand pieces. When I discovered this book, in which the title brings forward that it mixes this two themes that I adore, I knew right away that I needed to read it and that I was going to enjoy it.
Highland Gladiator is the first installment in the Scots and Swords series in which each book follows a different bunch of characters so they can be read separately. Nevertheless, I would recommend to follow the order of publication in case there are references or characters that appear in the following books of the series.
When he was a wee lass, Lor met a girl from the mountains near his home called Isabail. They took different paths but, some time later, they find each other again and start feelings things and becoming closer. Then Lor’s villa is attacked because of some conspiracy and the young man thinks that his grandfather, the one that has been taking care of him for his entire life, died in that attack. He doesn’t have anything left so he decides to look for the Ludus Caledonia, a place where man are turned into warriors because Lor wants to avenge his home and his grandfather. What he doesn’t know is that, maybe, he is planning to hurt the wrong people.
Highland Gladiator has two main characters with pretty different personalities. On one hand, Lor is a blacksmith that has to learn how to fight to become this warrior that will allow him to get his vengeance. He is a very honorable, humble man with his feet on the ground and that evolves a lot throughtout the pages. I think that he is a solid character with complexity and also connected a lot with him. He has this soft and beautiful heart that just made me fall in love with him.
On the other hand, Isabail is the daughter of the clan Keith’s chief that grew up learning strategy and warfare with her two brothers. What shoul I tell you about her? I adored her attitude and her strength to stand up whenever she feels something is not okay. It’s true that at the beginning I didn’t completely trust her but she earned my respect and my love pretty quickly. I think she is a good protagonist even though she is not as complex as Lor is.
Apart from them, there are this huge amount of side characters with different roles in the story. I particulary loved Lor’s mates in the Ludus Caledonia and I would have loved to get to know them better because they were really interesting and the author doesn’t really explore them. I also really liked Lor’s grandfather because he has a plot for himself that I didn’t expect and that I ended up enjoying a lot.
Historical fiction with some romance has become one of my favourite genres in the past few months and Highland Gladiator has earned a place in this list of incredible novels inside this genre that I love. It mixes political tensions and betrayals with the way the Ludus where gladiators train works and also with a pretty intense romance. The romance has importance within the story but these other themes also have relevance and are explored quite a lot. It’s obvious that the author did an extraordinary job at doing research about this period of time and about the culture and the costumes because the details that she brings in the book are very accurate.
This is the first book that I read of this author and I assure you that it won’t be my last. She has a pretty direct and simple writing style because, at the same time, it is elegant and with a lot of intensity that made me feel the same things as the characters. The dialogues are entertaining and I think that the action scenes are fast paced and easy to read without being confusing or something like that. I have to admit that some chapters were kind of slow but, in general, the pacing is good and I ended this book in a couple of days. It was an enjoyable reading.
As I have just mentioned, the romance is one of the foundations of this book so I wanted to talk a little bit about it. I consider that it is kind of rushed, the feelings begin to early in the story and when they don’t know each other much so it was kind of hard to believe it. I ended up liking their love story in spite of this beginning that I didn’t like as much. Lor and Isabail are so different that the interactions between them are so funny and interesting.
July 12, 2020
This book takes the reader through a fabulous journey from innocence to grief, to revenge and finally to a HEA. The romantic connection between Lor and Isabail is apparent from the start and is sweet and touching. Their relationship is that of equals and she helps him in his quest to become a great fighter. I like that Lor is conflicted and that his struggles are not overshadowed by reason.
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