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All the King's Men #3
A Temptress in Tartan
Can two sworn enemies run from a fate that was thrust upon them…or surrender to each other?
Lachlan Douglas’ hatred for the Ruthvens was born when he was a lad of seven, the day that clan murdered his mother and father. They took everything from him without mercy, leaving him with nothing but a heart of stone. Now, one of King James VI’s mightiest warriors, Lachlan wreaks havoc on enemies of the Scottish crown. When the Ruthvens stir up trouble for the king and the Douglas clan once more, Lachlan faces his greatest opponent yet—a bold, beautiful lass who wants to see him dead at any cost.
When Elizabeth Ruthven finds herself at the royal court to be used as a peace offering between the Ruthven and Douglas clans, she has no interest in marrying her enemy. Elizabeth is determined to continue the family feud, but she isn’t prepared for the brawny, brooding warrior who invades her life—and her heart. He is an infuriating, irresistible opponent with a curious touch, a smoldering kiss, and a reluctant smile that begins to shine on her alone.
As Elizabeth tries to sort out her feeling for her enemy, danger and treachery loom when her clansmen accuse Lachlan of sorcery. In a time when witches are hunted with fanatical zeal, Elizabeth must choose between forgiveness and love, or a chance at revenge at the end of the hangman’s noose.
Lachlan Douglas’ hatred for the Ruthvens was born when he was a lad of seven, the day that clan murdered his mother and father. They took everything from him without mercy, leaving him with nothing but a heart of stone. Now, one of King James VI’s mightiest warriors, Lachlan wreaks havoc on enemies of the Scottish crown. When the Ruthvens stir up trouble for the king and the Douglas clan once more, Lachlan faces his greatest opponent yet—a bold, beautiful lass who wants to see him dead at any cost.
When Elizabeth Ruthven finds herself at the royal court to be used as a peace offering between the Ruthven and Douglas clans, she has no interest in marrying her enemy. Elizabeth is determined to continue the family feud, but she isn’t prepared for the brawny, brooding warrior who invades her life—and her heart. He is an infuriating, irresistible opponent with a curious touch, a smoldering kiss, and a reluctant smile that begins to shine on her alone.
As Elizabeth tries to sort out her feeling for her enemy, danger and treachery loom when her clansmen accuse Lachlan of sorcery. In a time when witches are hunted with fanatical zeal, Elizabeth must choose between forgiveness and love, or a chance at revenge at the end of the hangman’s noose.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 6, 2019
43 people are currently reading
36 people want to read
About the author
Gerri Russell
35 books227 followersGerri Russell is the award-winning author of historical and contemporary novels including the Brotherhood of the Scottish Templars series and Flirting with Felicity. A two-time recipient of the Romance Writers of America’s Golden Heart Award and winner of the American Title II competition sponsored by RT Book Reviews magazine, she is best known for her adventurous and emotionally intense novels set in the thirteenth- and eighteenth-century Scottish Highlands. Before Gerri followed her passion for writing romance novels, she worked as a broadcast journalist, a newspaper reporter, a magazine columnist, a technical writer and editor, and an instructional designer. She lives in Bellevue, Washington, with her husband and three black cats.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
August 3, 2019
“How did two people whose lives up to this point had been filled with trauma and pain find a way to each other when everything around them conspired against them?”
This was an entertaining and surprisingly educational read! Set in the Scottish historical period of the witch trials, the story followed Elizabeth Ruthvel and Lachlan Douglas in an arranged marriage trope that hoped to end the feud that had been escalating between their clans for decades.
“The hatred between their two families ran too deep for the fighting to end.”
While I am always a fan of arranged marriage tropes (as I love to see how they learn to rely on one another and slowly fall in love) this one just wasn’t a very big hit for me. I enjoyed the slow burn between the characters as well as their unending loyalty to their families, but I just felt like something was missing from this. A special spark that would really capture my attention and have me eagerly awaiting to find out what happened next. Sadly, this wasn’t the case.
Despite this, I did still enjoy the book. The characters were highly likeable and had a good growth over the period of the story. Elizabeth was a strong woman who had not been given freedom or experiences up until her arranged marriage, so I felt it hard to judge her actions too harshly. While they were not actions I would normally support or wish for in a character, I could not entirely fault her for them considering how her family had brought her up. Having lived a very sheltered, controlled life (except for her mother’s death) she had not had much exposure with complicated dating situations. This made the unrealistic and feeble decisions she made during certain events in the book, a bit hard to support. Despite this though, she was always loyal to Lachlan and for that she still had my vote!
“Feeling alone was not a new sensation for her. She’d never really had a place where she belonged, even in her own clan. And still, the sensation cut deep. This was her new life now – a captive surrounded by her enemies.”
Lachlan was by far the best character in this book. He was the epitome of good, noble and honourable. A guy who would certainly take the shirt off his back for you – yes please! His ripped physique was definitely a plus point in this book. Who doesn’t love a nice toned warrior that’s also incredibly sweet on the inside? His support of Elizabeth and unconventional opinions on women’s rights (for the time period) were also a tick in the pro column for me!
“Your place is wherever you choose it to be…Life is short and often filled with difficulty. It is our dreams that make our lives worth living.” – Lachlan
While most of this book was enjoyable, I would have liked for there to have been more down-time for the two main characters. It wasn’t that this story was written badly – not at all. I just didn’t connect as well to the characters because there were too many obstacles between their start and happily ever after. It felt like the characters were jumping from one obstacle to the next and never really hitting pause to get to know each other. By default, the reader didn’t get to connect with them a lot either, which was a shame. I would have liked to have seen more of Elizabeth and Lachlan getting to know each other (and his clan) before things went downhill.
Additionally, the ending left me a little bummed. I wasn’t going to get what I had expected – but maybe that was for the best? Something new and fresh is generally better than cut and dry predictability, but I was looking forward to finally getting a chance to connect with the characters. The lack of this in the ending threw me off a bit.
Despite everything, this was still an enjoyable read and I do intend to give the next book in the series a go!
This was an entertaining and surprisingly educational read! Set in the Scottish historical period of the witch trials, the story followed Elizabeth Ruthvel and Lachlan Douglas in an arranged marriage trope that hoped to end the feud that had been escalating between their clans for decades.
“The hatred between their two families ran too deep for the fighting to end.”
While I am always a fan of arranged marriage tropes (as I love to see how they learn to rely on one another and slowly fall in love) this one just wasn’t a very big hit for me. I enjoyed the slow burn between the characters as well as their unending loyalty to their families, but I just felt like something was missing from this. A special spark that would really capture my attention and have me eagerly awaiting to find out what happened next. Sadly, this wasn’t the case.
Despite this, I did still enjoy the book. The characters were highly likeable and had a good growth over the period of the story. Elizabeth was a strong woman who had not been given freedom or experiences up until her arranged marriage, so I felt it hard to judge her actions too harshly. While they were not actions I would normally support or wish for in a character, I could not entirely fault her for them considering how her family had brought her up. Having lived a very sheltered, controlled life (except for her mother’s death) she had not had much exposure with complicated dating situations. This made the unrealistic and feeble decisions she made during certain events in the book, a bit hard to support. Despite this though, she was always loyal to Lachlan and for that she still had my vote!
“Feeling alone was not a new sensation for her. She’d never really had a place where she belonged, even in her own clan. And still, the sensation cut deep. This was her new life now – a captive surrounded by her enemies.”
Lachlan was by far the best character in this book. He was the epitome of good, noble and honourable. A guy who would certainly take the shirt off his back for you – yes please! His ripped physique was definitely a plus point in this book. Who doesn’t love a nice toned warrior that’s also incredibly sweet on the inside? His support of Elizabeth and unconventional opinions on women’s rights (for the time period) were also a tick in the pro column for me!
“Your place is wherever you choose it to be…Life is short and often filled with difficulty. It is our dreams that make our lives worth living.” – Lachlan
While most of this book was enjoyable, I would have liked for there to have been more down-time for the two main characters. It wasn’t that this story was written badly – not at all. I just didn’t connect as well to the characters because there were too many obstacles between their start and happily ever after. It felt like the characters were jumping from one obstacle to the next and never really hitting pause to get to know each other. By default, the reader didn’t get to connect with them a lot either, which was a shame. I would have liked to have seen more of Elizabeth and Lachlan getting to know each other (and his clan) before things went downhill.
Additionally, the ending left me a little bummed. I wasn’t going to get what I had expected – but maybe that was for the best? Something new and fresh is generally better than cut and dry predictability, but I was looking forward to finally getting a chance to connect with the characters. The lack of this in the ending threw me off a bit.
Despite everything, this was still an enjoyable read and I do intend to give the next book in the series a go!
July 30, 2019
A very well writen story about two sworn enemies who are forced into a marriage they never wanted.
As they began knowing each other better they fall hopelessly in love, but to have a happy marriage with the peace they want they have to work to end the tremendous rift that exists between their families once and for all.
I adore how this couple feel in love, i truly did and i thought this book to be pretty entertaing the only thing i have to warn is that this is not totally a safe read, this had some REALLY hard to read moments that made me cry and totally broke my heart, it was not easy for me to go through the pages where these hard moments happens because i am pretty sensible with books that have descripitive tellings of horrible happenings in the story. Overall it was a good read with a romance that is more slow to happen, for the most part of the book they act more as friends starting to trust each other and when they see that they do can have a happy marriage if they started to be open with what they were feeling. I received an ARC of this book by NetGalley and am giving my completely honest review.
As they began knowing each other better they fall hopelessly in love, but to have a happy marriage with the peace they want they have to work to end the tremendous rift that exists between their families once and for all.
I adore how this couple feel in love, i truly did and i thought this book to be pretty entertaing the only thing i have to warn is that this is not totally a safe read, this had some REALLY hard to read moments that made me cry and totally broke my heart, it was not easy for me to go through the pages where these hard moments happens because i am pretty sensible with books that have descripitive tellings of horrible happenings in the story. Overall it was a good read with a romance that is more slow to happen, for the most part of the book they act more as friends starting to trust each other and when they see that they do can have a happy marriage if they started to be open with what they were feeling. I received an ARC of this book by NetGalley and am giving my completely honest review.
January 22, 2020
Laird Lachlan Douglas and the rest of his clan have hated the Ruthven clan since they murdered his parents and left him with nothing but a hardened heart. Now he's one of King James VI's top warriors and lives for battle. But when the Ruthvens stir up trouble once more for his clan and King James, the king comes up with his own solution to end the ongoing feud: Lachlan will marry the Ruthven laird's daughter, Elizabeth.
Unfortunately, Elizabeth is less than willing to marry her enemy and would rather see him dead. She's unprepared to have her every view of her clan and her sheltered notions of the world around her challenged by a surprisingly gentle warrior. While Elizabeth is still trying to decide how she feels about Lachlan after coming to know him better, one of her clansmen accuses him of being a warlock. In the ensuing chaos it seems Lachlan's vaunted status as an earl and a king's man won't be enough to save him. With betrayal all around them, Elizabeth must decide if she will try to save the new husband she is growing to care for or let her clan's revenge come at the hands of a fanatical and disloyal king.
I did not like Elizabeth at first but she did grow on me, and much quicker than the heroine in the previous book. I think Lachlan was a great man who deserved better from everyone he was loyal to, especially the treacherous king. It's sickening to think that this sort of fanaticism was a real thing in this time period. So with that in mind, this story has much more focus on the historical setting, action, betrayal, etc., than it does on the actual romance, though there were some good steamy scenes as well. I still didn't enjoy this one as much as the first book in the series, but I did like it more than the second installment and it's a solid addition to the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Unfortunately, Elizabeth is less than willing to marry her enemy and would rather see him dead. She's unprepared to have her every view of her clan and her sheltered notions of the world around her challenged by a surprisingly gentle warrior. While Elizabeth is still trying to decide how she feels about Lachlan after coming to know him better, one of her clansmen accuses him of being a warlock. In the ensuing chaos it seems Lachlan's vaunted status as an earl and a king's man won't be enough to save him. With betrayal all around them, Elizabeth must decide if she will try to save the new husband she is growing to care for or let her clan's revenge come at the hands of a fanatical and disloyal king.
I did not like Elizabeth at first but she did grow on me, and much quicker than the heroine in the previous book. I think Lachlan was a great man who deserved better from everyone he was loyal to, especially the treacherous king. It's sickening to think that this sort of fanaticism was a real thing in this time period. So with that in mind, this story has much more focus on the historical setting, action, betrayal, etc., than it does on the actual romance, though there were some good steamy scenes as well. I still didn't enjoy this one as much as the first book in the series, but I did like it more than the second installment and it's a solid addition to the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 8, 2019
Scotland 1592 An arranged marriage by decree of the King, Elizabeth Ruthvan could only feel sadness and fear. The man she was to marry was none other than Lachland Douglas, one of her clans sworn enemies. The King thought to bring a truce between their waring clans?
This story was so enjoyable with the author's words that brought the characters alive and this period in history that was very stressful. They were killing people they thought were witches or warlochs and it was truly scary. With the feud between their families having began many years past, she was determined to not put it aside and try to be happy.
Lachlan was one of the King's strongest warriors, but his life had been changed since his parents were murdered by the Ruthvens. But there was no way not to feel for him and Elizabeth, but how could she resist the handsome, brooding warrior who was determined to make her want him.
Their journey is anything but easy. Filled with strong emotions, betrayal, trust issues and a romance that sparks off the pages.. Loved this book and I highly recommend!
This story was so enjoyable with the author's words that brought the characters alive and this period in history that was very stressful. They were killing people they thought were witches or warlochs and it was truly scary. With the feud between their families having began many years past, she was determined to not put it aside and try to be happy.
Lachlan was one of the King's strongest warriors, but his life had been changed since his parents were murdered by the Ruthvens. But there was no way not to feel for him and Elizabeth, but how could she resist the handsome, brooding warrior who was determined to make her want him.
Their journey is anything but easy. Filled with strong emotions, betrayal, trust issues and a romance that sparks off the pages.. Loved this book and I highly recommend!
July 28, 2019
Mortal enemies, kilts, and witchcraft? Oh my!
This book is the third installment of Gerri Russell's All the King's Men series but the first I have read, which I plan on changing really soon. The book begins with a marriage arranged by King James between members of two feuding clans, the Douglas and Ruthvens, in hopes of creating a truce. Perfect plan, right? Would could possibly go wrong?
Russell draws you into her world by creating characters with heart and of course sex appeal, this is a historical romance after all. The story unfolds with many surprises from forgotten memories of the past, lost loves, to life saving antics. For Elizabeth, the marriage causes her finally discover who she really is separate from her clan and her father. For Lachlan, the marriage allows him an opportunity to reconcile with his past.
This book is highly recommended for those that love historical romance and an alpha male with a softer side.
This book is the third installment of Gerri Russell's All the King's Men series but the first I have read, which I plan on changing really soon. The book begins with a marriage arranged by King James between members of two feuding clans, the Douglas and Ruthvens, in hopes of creating a truce. Perfect plan, right? Would could possibly go wrong?
Russell draws you into her world by creating characters with heart and of course sex appeal, this is a historical romance after all. The story unfolds with many surprises from forgotten memories of the past, lost loves, to life saving antics. For Elizabeth, the marriage causes her finally discover who she really is separate from her clan and her father. For Lachlan, the marriage allows him an opportunity to reconcile with his past.
This book is highly recommended for those that love historical romance and an alpha male with a softer side.
July 27, 2019
I loved the scenery. Perfect time period for this type of romance. Loved the detailed descriptions. However, didn’t love the historical language and as someone who’s usually a fan of historical fiction it irked me slightly. I did love the careful attention to details when it came to the historical details was very nice though. As for the plot line, it was good but not for me. I did really like that he kept her “virtue” in tact until she wished for it not be. But I didn’t like how Elizabeth was so hostile towards her new husband from the beginning. It definitely wasn’t an insta romance and more of a slow burn. 3/5 stars.
April 3, 2021
Wow! How brutal. The times in Scotland during the times of King James IV were lawless in a way. Turns out anyone could claim someone was a witch or warlock if they wanted to get even with someone. Women were totally not worth anything except to become beholden to someone because the King decided so to solve a problem or reward someone.
As long the King was in power and you were in his good graces you had riches. If the King is overthrown you could lose everything.
The stories in this series are similar to the Scottish tales in Outlander.
All Kings had his seven guards that were the best warriors and keep him alive. There are many parts of Games of Thrones type actions except in Scotland
Elizabeth from Clan Ruthvens was betrothed to Lachlan of Clan Douglas by King James to try and unite the two clans who have been at war for years. The Ruthvens killed Lachlan’s parents and Reid’s wife and unborn child.
Elizabeth hated the Douglas Clan and her father had every intention if kidnapping her back and killing Lachlan. When that did not work, he lied about him being a warlock. He is tried as a Warlock and is tortured and almost dies. Can Elizabeth realize her father has lied to her all her life about the Douglas Clan and is so disappointed she is not a male int time to help Lachlan? There is a lot of detail what the times were like and the horror of innocents being put to death. Read in for the ending.
As long the King was in power and you were in his good graces you had riches. If the King is overthrown you could lose everything.
The stories in this series are similar to the Scottish tales in Outlander.
All Kings had his seven guards that were the best warriors and keep him alive. There are many parts of Games of Thrones type actions except in Scotland
Elizabeth from Clan Ruthvens was betrothed to Lachlan of Clan Douglas by King James to try and unite the two clans who have been at war for years. The Ruthvens killed Lachlan’s parents and Reid’s wife and unborn child.
Elizabeth hated the Douglas Clan and her father had every intention if kidnapping her back and killing Lachlan. When that did not work, he lied about him being a warlock. He is tried as a Warlock and is tortured and almost dies. Can Elizabeth realize her father has lied to her all her life about the Douglas Clan and is so disappointed she is not a male int time to help Lachlan? There is a lot of detail what the times were like and the horror of innocents being put to death. Read in for the ending.
September 18, 2019
Book: A Temptress in Tartan
By Gerri Russell
Series: All the Kings Men, #3
Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook of
1.Tartan Book Reviews
2. Purple Tulip Book Reviews
3. Celtic World of Historical Book Reviews
4.Celtic Barb’s Tartan Book Review Blog
Heat Rating: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Overall Rating: 5 Stars and 5 Kilts
Scotland, 1592
Summer, Falkland Palace
Elizabeth Ruthven had just gotten news she was to marry her clan’s deepest darkest enemy to a hated Douglas. As King James and Queen Anne felt this was the best way to force a truce between two feuding clans. His name was Lachlan Douglas who was Laird of the Douglas Clan that she was to marry. A man. She had never seen or met before. Elizabeth had never met him but heard horrible things about this Clan her entire life. The only reason her father agreed was the King was holding his purse strings. As his father was paid he had other evil intentions planned for the Douglas Clan.
Elizabeth thought she cared for another clan member and now that dream was over too. What did she have to bring her love and happiness though her only solution was to end her short life. Yet she was saved by the most handsome stranger she had ever seen. The following day she walks down the isle and sees the handsome stranger is Laird Lachlan Douglas. She feels used and frightened and even tries to assault her husband. Yet he does not try to hurt or damage her in any way for the assault. He actually comes up with a compromise. Even when she sees and meets the kind Douglas kin she realizes in her sheltered life she’s been told nothing but lies all her life.
It was also a dangerous time to live in Scotland as King James obsession with witch hunts. People just spread lies about people and they would be killed. Plus the King had hired these religious fanatics who who would torture the innocent and found them all guilty! Thousands of men and and women but the majority. The year 1590 witnessed the largest and most high-profile witch trials in Scottish history. True history where no fewer than 70 suspects were rounded up in North Berwick, on suspicion of raising a storm to destroy King James’s fleet as he conveyed his new bride, Anne of Denmark, across the North Sea. Convinced the tempest that had almost cost his life had been summoned by witchcraft, James was intent upon bringing the perpetrators to justice.
Now Elizabeth’s evil father knew exactly how to destroy Lachlan and appealing to The King’s obsession of witchcraft. In 1597 he became the only monarch in history to publish a treatise on witchcraft. Daemonologie (literally, the science of demons) was the result of painstaking and meticulous work on James’s part, and must have taken years to complete. So Elizabeth’s father knew just how to make people believe Lachlan was a warlock just when Elizabeth knew she was in love with this kind man. The problem was her father forced a childhood memory that could destroy Lachlan. Yet Lachlan was one of The Kings magnificent seven. His protectors as many would like to see him dead.
Will his past relationship with King help or hurt him. Will Lachlan be able to open his heart to a lass whose clan killed his parents. Plus having a father-in-law that just wants him dead. Do these star crossed lovers even have the slightest chance at a marriage or will it end in a horrendous death?
Again Gerri Russell absolutely blew me away with this emotional heartbreaking romance. I love that she puts true history in her novels as King James and his obsession with witchcraft in Scotland in the late sixteenth century is very true. I applaud this author for all the difficult but amazing research she did. It is truly a phenomenal novel that I highly recommend. If you love true Scottish history and a delightful romance. You don’t want to miss this exhilarating novel. One of my favorite reads of the year.
Again the setting made my heart race, the dialogue was magnificent, and the characters were so captivating . Now there were several plots happening which was absolutely brilliant. As I was never sure what might happen next. This book is a total gift from start to finish!
I have been read this authors historical novels for over thirteen years and I am never disappointed. Each and every book has been a masterpiece!
All the King's Men by Gerri Russell
1.Seven Nights with a Scot - Quinn & Vivian
2.Romancing the Laird - Reid & Lucy
3.A Temptress in Tartan - Lachlan & Elizabeth
I can’t wait for book #4!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary ARC copy from the publisher through Netgalley. I voluntarily agreed to read, review and blog an advance copy of this book. All thoughts, ideas and opinions are my own.
BUY LINKv
https://www.amazon.com/Temptress-Tart...
https://m.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-temp...
https://books.apple.com/us/book/a-tem...
https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/a-te...
By Gerri Russell
Series: All the Kings Men, #3
Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook of
1.Tartan Book Reviews
2. Purple Tulip Book Reviews
3. Celtic World of Historical Book Reviews
4.Celtic Barb’s Tartan Book Review Blog
Heat Rating: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Overall Rating: 5 Stars and 5 Kilts
Scotland, 1592
Summer, Falkland Palace
Elizabeth Ruthven had just gotten news she was to marry her clan’s deepest darkest enemy to a hated Douglas. As King James and Queen Anne felt this was the best way to force a truce between two feuding clans. His name was Lachlan Douglas who was Laird of the Douglas Clan that she was to marry. A man. She had never seen or met before. Elizabeth had never met him but heard horrible things about this Clan her entire life. The only reason her father agreed was the King was holding his purse strings. As his father was paid he had other evil intentions planned for the Douglas Clan.
Elizabeth thought she cared for another clan member and now that dream was over too. What did she have to bring her love and happiness though her only solution was to end her short life. Yet she was saved by the most handsome stranger she had ever seen. The following day she walks down the isle and sees the handsome stranger is Laird Lachlan Douglas. She feels used and frightened and even tries to assault her husband. Yet he does not try to hurt or damage her in any way for the assault. He actually comes up with a compromise. Even when she sees and meets the kind Douglas kin she realizes in her sheltered life she’s been told nothing but lies all her life.
It was also a dangerous time to live in Scotland as King James obsession with witch hunts. People just spread lies about people and they would be killed. Plus the King had hired these religious fanatics who who would torture the innocent and found them all guilty! Thousands of men and and women but the majority. The year 1590 witnessed the largest and most high-profile witch trials in Scottish history. True history where no fewer than 70 suspects were rounded up in North Berwick, on suspicion of raising a storm to destroy King James’s fleet as he conveyed his new bride, Anne of Denmark, across the North Sea. Convinced the tempest that had almost cost his life had been summoned by witchcraft, James was intent upon bringing the perpetrators to justice.
Now Elizabeth’s evil father knew exactly how to destroy Lachlan and appealing to The King’s obsession of witchcraft. In 1597 he became the only monarch in history to publish a treatise on witchcraft. Daemonologie (literally, the science of demons) was the result of painstaking and meticulous work on James’s part, and must have taken years to complete. So Elizabeth’s father knew just how to make people believe Lachlan was a warlock just when Elizabeth knew she was in love with this kind man. The problem was her father forced a childhood memory that could destroy Lachlan. Yet Lachlan was one of The Kings magnificent seven. His protectors as many would like to see him dead.
Will his past relationship with King help or hurt him. Will Lachlan be able to open his heart to a lass whose clan killed his parents. Plus having a father-in-law that just wants him dead. Do these star crossed lovers even have the slightest chance at a marriage or will it end in a horrendous death?
Again Gerri Russell absolutely blew me away with this emotional heartbreaking romance. I love that she puts true history in her novels as King James and his obsession with witchcraft in Scotland in the late sixteenth century is very true. I applaud this author for all the difficult but amazing research she did. It is truly a phenomenal novel that I highly recommend. If you love true Scottish history and a delightful romance. You don’t want to miss this exhilarating novel. One of my favorite reads of the year.
Again the setting made my heart race, the dialogue was magnificent, and the characters were so captivating . Now there were several plots happening which was absolutely brilliant. As I was never sure what might happen next. This book is a total gift from start to finish!
I have been read this authors historical novels for over thirteen years and I am never disappointed. Each and every book has been a masterpiece!
All the King's Men by Gerri Russell
1.Seven Nights with a Scot - Quinn & Vivian
2.Romancing the Laird - Reid & Lucy
3.A Temptress in Tartan - Lachlan & Elizabeth
I can’t wait for book #4!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary ARC copy from the publisher through Netgalley. I voluntarily agreed to read, review and blog an advance copy of this book. All thoughts, ideas and opinions are my own.
BUY LINKv
https://www.amazon.com/Temptress-Tart...
https://m.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-temp...
https://books.apple.com/us/book/a-tem...
https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/a-te...
January 17, 2020
I enjoyed this book a lot. Like all of Russell's books, she does a tremendous job of weaving historical facts into her well crafted stories. As an historian, I greatly appreciate that. I have to admit, I didn't really like Elizabeth at first because she was kind of a brat, but she grew on me once she was willing to open up and let herself be vulnerable. On the other hand, I love Lachlan! I loved his easy going spirit and good nature in spite of all he'd been through in his life.
Some other reviews I read have complained about the "lack" of action in the story which for me seems a little shallow. The author, throughout this series, has tried to highlight the real fear and terror, and superstitious beliefs in Scotland at this time in history which I think she does a remarkable job of. I did have trouble reading some of the torture and witch trial scenes, but that stuff is hard. As it should be. I also liked the reversal of gender when it came to who was on trial. Most author's don't do that.
I was a little unsatisfied with the ending, but only because I want to know where they sail off to!
Some other reviews I read have complained about the "lack" of action in the story which for me seems a little shallow. The author, throughout this series, has tried to highlight the real fear and terror, and superstitious beliefs in Scotland at this time in history which I think she does a remarkable job of. I did have trouble reading some of the torture and witch trial scenes, but that stuff is hard. As it should be. I also liked the reversal of gender when it came to who was on trial. Most author's don't do that.
I was a little unsatisfied with the ending, but only because I want to know where they sail off to!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2019
What are the necessary ingredients for a successful and happy marriage? Love? Mutual attraction? King James VI’s orders? Certainly not the third, or is it?
The Douglas and Ruthven clans have been at war for nearly the entire lives of both Lachlan Douglas and Elizabeth Ruthven and for good reason. The Ruthven clan killed both of Lachlan’s parents when he was a lad of just seven. The King had grown weary of the feuding between the two clans and ordered Lachlan to be married to Elizabeth. The wedding occurs but it is far from blessed by either clan. The story really begins as these two young people attempt to find their way toward each other in spite of their waring clans. It’s an action packed adventure fraught with many perils of the time not the least of which is the fear of anything that might be seen as witchcraft.
I always appreciate Russell’s historical research that is woven into her every tale. Each story gives me a greater appreciation of the historical events in the time period she is writing about and adds great depth to the story. A Temptress in Tartan is another triumph in the All the Kings Men series! Each book can be read as a stand-alone yet I appreciate the connection of characters as they grow in depth which each new release. Job well done! I am looking forward to reading the next books in the series. Give the Temptress in Tartan a read, you won’t be disappointed.
The Douglas and Ruthven clans have been at war for nearly the entire lives of both Lachlan Douglas and Elizabeth Ruthven and for good reason. The Ruthven clan killed both of Lachlan’s parents when he was a lad of just seven. The King had grown weary of the feuding between the two clans and ordered Lachlan to be married to Elizabeth. The wedding occurs but it is far from blessed by either clan. The story really begins as these two young people attempt to find their way toward each other in spite of their waring clans. It’s an action packed adventure fraught with many perils of the time not the least of which is the fear of anything that might be seen as witchcraft.
I always appreciate Russell’s historical research that is woven into her every tale. Each story gives me a greater appreciation of the historical events in the time period she is writing about and adds great depth to the story. A Temptress in Tartan is another triumph in the All the Kings Men series! Each book can be read as a stand-alone yet I appreciate the connection of characters as they grow in depth which each new release. Job well done! I am looking forward to reading the next books in the series. Give the Temptress in Tartan a read, you won’t be disappointed.
August 10, 2019
A Temptress in Tartan, third in author Gerri Russell’s All The King’s Men series, is set in sixteenth century Scotland during the reign of King James I. While it is part of a series it stands alone well.
This story has a bit of a Romeo and Juliet theme to it as warrior Lachlan Douglas is forced to marry Elizabeth Ruthven, the daughter of his sworn enemy in a bid to bring a halt to the longstanding feud between these two clans.
The plot was well developed with enough twists and turns to keep me turning the pages. I loved the way the witch trials which were ongoing in Scotland at that time were interwoven into the story. Of particular interest for me was that in this story it was a man accused of witchcraft rather than a woman.
I thought author Gerri Russell created a very plausible scenario and while the solutions to clearing the charges were pretty obvious that didn’t detract from the story.
I have been enjoying this series both because each story so far has been intriguing and because they are set during a period in Scottish history that hasn’t been done to death. It’s been fascinating getting a glimpse of life at that time through the pages of three thoroughly enjoyable books.
This story has a bit of a Romeo and Juliet theme to it as warrior Lachlan Douglas is forced to marry Elizabeth Ruthven, the daughter of his sworn enemy in a bid to bring a halt to the longstanding feud between these two clans.
The plot was well developed with enough twists and turns to keep me turning the pages. I loved the way the witch trials which were ongoing in Scotland at that time were interwoven into the story. Of particular interest for me was that in this story it was a man accused of witchcraft rather than a woman.
I thought author Gerri Russell created a very plausible scenario and while the solutions to clearing the charges were pretty obvious that didn’t detract from the story.
I have been enjoying this series both because each story so far has been intriguing and because they are set during a period in Scottish history that hasn’t been done to death. It’s been fascinating getting a glimpse of life at that time through the pages of three thoroughly enjoyable books.
August 3, 2019
Elizabeth Ruthven was being forced to marry a Douglas. They had an ongoing feud for about twenty years. The King and Queen of Scotland wanted the feud stopped and this was the only they could think to do it,
Lachlan Douglas was the Laird of Clan Douglas, he also wanted to stop the feud. But they both had reasons to hate each other. The Ruthven's had killed Lachlan's mother and father and it was believed that Lachlan had killed Elizabeth's mother.
A complicated story, There are witches and torture. I was up most of the night trying to finish the tale I had to know what was going to happen. It was exciting and frightening, The characters were intriguing and the descriptions were excellent. It flowed smoothly and was concise. I am glad I got a chance to read such a mesmerizing book.
I received this ARC from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed
Lachlan Douglas was the Laird of Clan Douglas, he also wanted to stop the feud. But they both had reasons to hate each other. The Ruthven's had killed Lachlan's mother and father and it was believed that Lachlan had killed Elizabeth's mother.
A complicated story, There are witches and torture. I was up most of the night trying to finish the tale I had to know what was going to happen. It was exciting and frightening, The characters were intriguing and the descriptions were excellent. It flowed smoothly and was concise. I am glad I got a chance to read such a mesmerizing book.
I received this ARC from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed
August 13, 2019
A Temptress in Tartan is another strong heroine story that takes place in the time of King James VI reign. It is the third in Gerri Russell’s All the Kings Men Series. A family enemy to peace offering to love story with the couple fighting all the way to their happily ever after.
This well-written story is another reminder of how difficult life could be for women. At times, Elizabeth wants revenge when perhaps forgiveness and becoming the peacemaker would be better. Witch accusations are part of the time so the consequences of such charges are also part of the story. Difficult times where love can make the difference for Lachlan Douglas and Elizabeth Ruthven.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This well-written story is another reminder of how difficult life could be for women. At times, Elizabeth wants revenge when perhaps forgiveness and becoming the peacemaker would be better. Witch accusations are part of the time so the consequences of such charges are also part of the story. Difficult times where love can make the difference for Lachlan Douglas and Elizabeth Ruthven.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 30, 2019
Elizabeth Ruthven is being forced by the King to marry her clan's most hated enemy to try and create peace. She would rather die than give herself to such a monster.
Lachlan Douglas is one of the King's bodyguards and as a reward he has been given lands and a title. The only problem is the family of the bride that comes with it.
This is a difficult time in the kingdom when the witch hunters are powerful and anyone can accuse a neighbour just to get rid of them.
Our characters have a dangerous and trouble filled journey ahead. Trust is nowhere to be found, and friends are few and far between.
A very exciting adventure that is part of a series but can be read on it's own.
Lachlan Douglas is one of the King's bodyguards and as a reward he has been given lands and a title. The only problem is the family of the bride that comes with it.
This is a difficult time in the kingdom when the witch hunters are powerful and anyone can accuse a neighbour just to get rid of them.
Our characters have a dangerous and trouble filled journey ahead. Trust is nowhere to be found, and friends are few and far between.
A very exciting adventure that is part of a series but can be read on it's own.
August 7, 2019
This book was so good! It kept me on the edge of my seat and completely glued to see what the whole outcome would be. I was completely mesmerized.
It’s a first class roller coaster ride that kept me on the edge of my seat and my nose in the book. This story is full of angst, betrayal and deception.
Elizabeth and Lachlan were such great characters. I connected with them early on and pulled for them till the last page. Even though they go through hell and back, they persevere.
Grab a bottle of wine and settle in because it a wild ride and one it starts you won’t want to move!
It’s a first class roller coaster ride that kept me on the edge of my seat and my nose in the book. This story is full of angst, betrayal and deception.
Elizabeth and Lachlan were such great characters. I connected with them early on and pulled for them till the last page. Even though they go through hell and back, they persevere.
Grab a bottle of wine and settle in because it a wild ride and one it starts you won’t want to move!
August 8, 2019
A Temptress in Tartan is the third book in Gerri Russell's All the King's Men series. In this book, we uncover Lachlan and Elizabeth's love story. A love that may have seemed unlikely, but is made all the sweeter by sparkling. Set against the backdrop of the Scottish Witch Trials, Lachlan and Elizabeth will battle against the odds in search of their happily ever after. Along the way, they are aided by several other familiar faces. With just the right amount of suspense and sizzle, I.found myself unable to put this book down.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2019
A Temptress in Tartan is the 3rd book in this series. However you do not need to read the first or second to know what is going on. this book has no trouble standing alone. Its about two mortal enemies who are forced to marry each other and their journey in them falling in love. This book is a page turner and you won't be able to put it down. The author has a way to catch your interest immediately and just make you want to read more and more. As usual with her books I am always sad they end. This series All the Kings Men is my favorite by far.
August 22, 2019
Pleasant read, but I think I would've loved to have read some more Scottish accents ;)
I also think not much happened in the book, which technically wasn't necessary, but I think I would've liked to have seen some more action.
I also think not much happened in the book, which technically wasn't necessary, but I think I would've liked to have seen some more action.
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