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Highlanders of Darkness #1
Daring the Highlander
He wanted to make her his; for now and infinity to come...
Bernadine Nibley grows up in a household nurturing an insurmountable hatred for Scots. When her father insults a Highland Laird while attending the ball of the year, her reality shifts abruptly in the most unexpected way.
Donnan Young, powerful Laird of his clan, leads the brutish life of a Highland warrior. Short-tempered as a bull, he loses his mind when an obnoxious Englishman attacks him, speaking badly of his kin. Deciding to avenge him, he kidnaps his daughter from under his nose.
But while the lass ultimately wins his heart, he fights to win hers…
Until the day mysterious occurrences start happening in Vernuit Castle. With an unseen con man lurking in the shadows, the couple has only a few hours to outrun the evil that has been unleashed upon them...
*Daring the Highlander is a steamy Scottish historical romance novel of 80,000 words (around 400 pages). No cheating, no cliffhangers, lots of steam and a happy ending.
Get this book for free with Kindle Unlimited!
Bernadine Nibley grows up in a household nurturing an insurmountable hatred for Scots. When her father insults a Highland Laird while attending the ball of the year, her reality shifts abruptly in the most unexpected way.
Donnan Young, powerful Laird of his clan, leads the brutish life of a Highland warrior. Short-tempered as a bull, he loses his mind when an obnoxious Englishman attacks him, speaking badly of his kin. Deciding to avenge him, he kidnaps his daughter from under his nose.
But while the lass ultimately wins his heart, he fights to win hers…
Until the day mysterious occurrences start happening in Vernuit Castle. With an unseen con man lurking in the shadows, the couple has only a few hours to outrun the evil that has been unleashed upon them...
*Daring the Highlander is a steamy Scottish historical romance novel of 80,000 words (around 400 pages). No cheating, no cliffhangers, lots of steam and a happy ending.
Get this book for free with Kindle Unlimited!
410 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 7, 2019
About the author
Lydia Kendall
112 books123 followersLydia Kendall has always been passionate about medieval romance. Having traveled to the Scottish Highlands several times as a young girl, she has always been drawn to their unparalleled beauty and history. A history that inspired stories of love and passion, mixed with tradition in the most appealing way for every hopeless romantic - much like herself.
Born in Denver, Colorado, Lydia Kendall has a degree in English Literature and Creative Writing, and over the last decade she has been writing non-stop for several clients - that is until she decided to start publishing her own work. When she isn't writing, Lydia loves spending her time in the beautiful outdoors with her loving husband and baby daughter.
Follow Lydia on this sensational journey of hot highlanders, bonny lassies, and fierce passion...and find sheer pleasure in the magnificent world of the Scottish countryside - one that will sweep you off your feet and keep you begging for more!
Born in Denver, Colorado, Lydia Kendall has a degree in English Literature and Creative Writing, and over the last decade she has been writing non-stop for several clients - that is until she decided to start publishing her own work. When she isn't writing, Lydia loves spending her time in the beautiful outdoors with her loving husband and baby daughter.
Follow Lydia on this sensational journey of hot highlanders, bonny lassies, and fierce passion...and find sheer pleasure in the magnificent world of the Scottish countryside - one that will sweep you off your feet and keep you begging for more!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
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February 24, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (2/24/2021)! 🎁
February 28, 2021
Daring the Highlander earns 4/5 Bare Bannocks...Entertaining Fun!
After reading dozens of cozy mysteries, police procedurals, and romcoms, I decided to heat up my weekend with a bit of steamy Highlander romance from Lydia Kendall. I couldn’t be more entertained with this “daring” page-turner drama and men in kilts! I was intrigued by the descriptive language of the long-ago era when bold men, strong women, family conflicts, and a smoldering romance were king. The dialogue used the Scottish brogue which provided an air of realism, immersing me in the drama, yet at times it was cumbersome and slowed me down a bit. Lydia Kendall does provide a mini language lesson with a Scottish Brogue Glossary at the beginning of the book; I suggest perusing it before starting to better prepare for their use. The story is quite engaging with egos bruised, culture animosities, kidnappings, hearts entangled, and a happy ending. However, the link to the “Extended Epilogue” didn’t work, and there were issues with inconsistencies in some details and pacing, and although disappointing from a technical point of view, it didn’t effect my overall enjoyment.
After reading dozens of cozy mysteries, police procedurals, and romcoms, I decided to heat up my weekend with a bit of steamy Highlander romance from Lydia Kendall. I couldn’t be more entertained with this “daring” page-turner drama and men in kilts! I was intrigued by the descriptive language of the long-ago era when bold men, strong women, family conflicts, and a smoldering romance were king. The dialogue used the Scottish brogue which provided an air of realism, immersing me in the drama, yet at times it was cumbersome and slowed me down a bit. Lydia Kendall does provide a mini language lesson with a Scottish Brogue Glossary at the beginning of the book; I suggest perusing it before starting to better prepare for their use. The story is quite engaging with egos bruised, culture animosities, kidnappings, hearts entangled, and a happy ending. However, the link to the “Extended Epilogue” didn’t work, and there were issues with inconsistencies in some details and pacing, and although disappointing from a technical point of view, it didn’t effect my overall enjoyment.
October 27, 2022
To love her captor.
Bernadine was attending a ball with her father who was very outspoken and very prejudice. There were many Scots at the ball including Laird Donnan. When Bernadine’s eyes met Donnan’s there was an instant attraction. Unfortunately her father was so full of hate for the Scots that he could not control the vile insults that spewed from his mouth. Donnan decided to retaliate by kidnapping Bernadine and taking her back to Scotland. She hated him for it until she couldn’t control her attraction any longer. When she began to see the good man he was the relationship between them changed. Unfortunately her father had not changed. This book has kidnapping, smuggling, anger, control issues, passion, love and forgiveness. Worth reading.
Bernadine was attending a ball with her father who was very outspoken and very prejudice. There were many Scots at the ball including Laird Donnan. When Bernadine’s eyes met Donnan’s there was an instant attraction. Unfortunately her father was so full of hate for the Scots that he could not control the vile insults that spewed from his mouth. Donnan decided to retaliate by kidnapping Bernadine and taking her back to Scotland. She hated him for it until she couldn’t control her attraction any longer. When she began to see the good man he was the relationship between them changed. Unfortunately her father had not changed. This book has kidnapping, smuggling, anger, control issues, passion, love and forgiveness. Worth reading.
August 6, 2020
Daring the Highlander is a Wonderful story! Lynda Kendall's characters never fail to delight; they are likeable (and not so likable), engaging individuals with real flaws who seem very realistic. It hooks you from the start and keeps you on the edge of your seat for the duration. I could not wait for the story to unfold. Throw in all the drama, adventure, deceit, kidnapping, sizzling romance , danger and suspense. This book will hold your attention to the fullest. Remarkable emotions, and unforgettable characters.
March 29, 2021
Inconsistent
This was just OK. It was the inconsistency that bothered me the most. The girl is described as blonde, then some chapters later, the hero is intrigued by her dark hair - then later she is blonde again. She is wearing a gown - then night rail - then a gown again.
The business of her father was odd. He went from bad to worse to repentance. And the thing with the smugglers wasn't needed at all.
This was just OK. It was the inconsistency that bothered me the most. The girl is described as blonde, then some chapters later, the hero is intrigued by her dark hair - then later she is blonde again. She is wearing a gown - then night rail - then a gown again.
The business of her father was odd. He went from bad to worse to repentance. And the thing with the smugglers wasn't needed at all.
March 2, 2021
After reading the first few chapters I realized that I had read this book previously, but I decided to finish it because I had enjoyed it so much. The characters were so well described, especially Lord Nibley, the hate, anger and his loss of control was mind numbing. The twists and turns turns throughout this story keep you on edge until the end, don’t miss out.
August 4, 2021
Sue review
This book kept me reading kept me interested couldn’t put it down the characters were interactive it was really good I like the part where she gets the young lad the coin because he needed it for his family all in all good reading good job
This book kept me reading kept me interested couldn’t put it down the characters were interactive it was really good I like the part where she gets the young lad the coin because he needed it for his family all in all good reading good job
March 25, 2022
Exciting
Quite the dramatic story, one of those don't put it down cause you can't wait for what's next. An epic love story.
Quite the dramatic story, one of those don't put it down cause you can't wait for what's next. An epic love story.
July 10, 2019
ONE THRILLING TREAT!!!
OMG! As all the turmoil and distress run rampant, feeling as though you've been put through the wringer more often than not. Riveted on a razors edge, frozen to your seat as everything falls into place with such perfection it leaves you craving more. All the uncertainty, revelations and speculation blast this baby to life brilliantly. Sparks fly as the chemistry sizzles, while drama and suspense ensues in epic proportions. Throw in a little intrigue and you have one dynamic page flipping, prize winning delight that launch this gem to a whole new level. One refreshing spin with an exhilarating storyline and gripping plot propels this bad boy to life flawlessly. Twists and turns abound with vexing circumstances and a bounty of inadvertent surprises that thrust all of your emotions bursting into play front and center. The dynamics and presentation in layer upon layer as you peel back with each page you stare in total awe at the spins, twirls and explosive events that leave you craving more. The characters are authentic, consistent and realistic with depth and qualities makes it easy to relate. Tangible individuals that balance out as they blend and flow. The scenes are so graphically detailed in such colorful descriptions to give you a full understanding and realism that flows smoothly from each scenario without a hitch. Amazing job Lydia, thanks for sharing this incredible jewel.
OMG! As all the turmoil and distress run rampant, feeling as though you've been put through the wringer more often than not. Riveted on a razors edge, frozen to your seat as everything falls into place with such perfection it leaves you craving more. All the uncertainty, revelations and speculation blast this baby to life brilliantly. Sparks fly as the chemistry sizzles, while drama and suspense ensues in epic proportions. Throw in a little intrigue and you have one dynamic page flipping, prize winning delight that launch this gem to a whole new level. One refreshing spin with an exhilarating storyline and gripping plot propels this bad boy to life flawlessly. Twists and turns abound with vexing circumstances and a bounty of inadvertent surprises that thrust all of your emotions bursting into play front and center. The dynamics and presentation in layer upon layer as you peel back with each page you stare in total awe at the spins, twirls and explosive events that leave you craving more. The characters are authentic, consistent and realistic with depth and qualities makes it easy to relate. Tangible individuals that balance out as they blend and flow. The scenes are so graphically detailed in such colorful descriptions to give you a full understanding and realism that flows smoothly from each scenario without a hitch. Amazing job Lydia, thanks for sharing this incredible jewel.
July 17, 2019
I enjoyed the book, particularly the emotions I could feel between Bernadine and Donnan. but there were a couple of problems. Bernadine had blonde hair and blue eyes. At one point in the book, Donnan noticed her dark hair and how it contrasted with her porcelain skin. I understand sometimes an author might decide to change something like that, but when she does, it's vital that every instance that contradicts the new description be rooted out and made consistent.
Another inconsistency occurred when Donnan received a letter from Bernadine and had "never seen her handwriting before," but he had when he intercepted a different letter — and made the same observations about the perfect loops and swirls.
In addition to inconsistencies, I also felt the torment may have been dragged out a bit longer than necessary. The ending felt a bit rushed, and the epilogue started where a new chapter could have been, then jumped ahead to what would ordinarily be the epilogue. As I said, I enjoyed the book. I liked the characters and how their relationship developed, but it wasn't as good as some of Lydia Kendall's other books so I can't give it 5 stars. Without the previously mentioned inconsistencies, I would have given it 4.
Another inconsistency occurred when Donnan received a letter from Bernadine and had "never seen her handwriting before," but he had when he intercepted a different letter — and made the same observations about the perfect loops and swirls.
In addition to inconsistencies, I also felt the torment may have been dragged out a bit longer than necessary. The ending felt a bit rushed, and the epilogue started where a new chapter could have been, then jumped ahead to what would ordinarily be the epilogue. As I said, I enjoyed the book. I liked the characters and how their relationship developed, but it wasn't as good as some of Lydia Kendall's other books so I can't give it 5 stars. Without the previously mentioned inconsistencies, I would have given it 4.
July 12, 2019
Three Times A Lady💃💋
I liked the book but the three excessive back and forth trips from Bernadine💃 to her father bothered me.
I know there was a lot of vitriol in real history between the English and the Scots during and after the wars and fighting over the lands and crown, but her dithering over her father got old.
The Laird, Donnan🐺, knows that he wants Bernadine💃 the minute he sees her. His reasons for kidnapping her are twofold. One is to get revenge on her anti-Scot biased father, and the other is because he wants Bernadine💃💋 for his own.
It's Bernadine💃💋 that is the source of all the angst in this book. Tall, handsome and ripped💪, Donnan🐺🍆⛲ bends over backwards to appease Bernadine💃, but it takes him a long time to bring her around.
Angst factor is a 7 out of a possible ten.
This is an adult book with adult situations.
ARC Received from Bookfunnel🌀
I also got this book with Amazon free!
Opinions Expressed here are my own.
I liked the book but the three excessive back and forth trips from Bernadine💃 to her father bothered me.
I know there was a lot of vitriol in real history between the English and the Scots during and after the wars and fighting over the lands and crown, but her dithering over her father got old.
The Laird, Donnan🐺, knows that he wants Bernadine💃 the minute he sees her. His reasons for kidnapping her are twofold. One is to get revenge on her anti-Scot biased father, and the other is because he wants Bernadine💃💋 for his own.
It's Bernadine💃💋 that is the source of all the angst in this book. Tall, handsome and ripped💪, Donnan🐺🍆⛲ bends over backwards to appease Bernadine💃, but it takes him a long time to bring her around.
Angst factor is a 7 out of a possible ten.
This is an adult book with adult situations.
ARC Received from Bookfunnel🌀
I also got this book with Amazon free!
Opinions Expressed here are my own.
July 12, 2019
She is all he never knew he needed.
Enduring her second season, Miss Bernadine Nibley is in no hurry to pick a husband. Still, she expects she will need to make a choice soon. Her papa will not wait forever.
Laird Donnan Young, a powerful clan leader is not looking for a lass, but a lass is what he now has on his hands. He feels powerfully drawn to her, so what happens when he is forced to let her go.
Daring the Highlander by Lydia Kendall an entertaining romance that is well written. It has likable characters and a simple but compelling plot. This stand-alone read is both character and plot driven with a satisfying happy ending that includes both an epilogue and extended epilogue.
Content alert: No vulgar language, but there is descriptive intimacy.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book set from the author. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
Enduring her second season, Miss Bernadine Nibley is in no hurry to pick a husband. Still, she expects she will need to make a choice soon. Her papa will not wait forever.
Laird Donnan Young, a powerful clan leader is not looking for a lass, but a lass is what he now has on his hands. He feels powerfully drawn to her, so what happens when he is forced to let her go.
Daring the Highlander by Lydia Kendall an entertaining romance that is well written. It has likable characters and a simple but compelling plot. This stand-alone read is both character and plot driven with a satisfying happy ending that includes both an epilogue and extended epilogue.
Content alert: No vulgar language, but there is descriptive intimacy.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book set from the author. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
July 8, 2019
I found this book to be of good quality . The story of Donnan and Bernadine flowed with its banter between the two whether it was her spewing daggers or smiling honey at him . There's some prejudices here , thst being the English mindset toward the Scots , and vice versa but nothing I think strange for the time period set forth in the book.
So we have kidnapping, seduction , a bit of blackmail and smuggling and I'm not saying who's doing what , but it's a plot within a plot and the destinies all these factors play toward the final chapters made this book an enjoyable read for me.
Thanks to Lydia Kendall ! She is becoming a force to reckon with in the literary world.
*This is my honest review freely given for this ARC book*
So we have kidnapping, seduction , a bit of blackmail and smuggling and I'm not saying who's doing what , but it's a plot within a plot and the destinies all these factors play toward the final chapters made this book an enjoyable read for me.
Thanks to Lydia Kendall ! She is becoming a force to reckon with in the literary world.
*This is my honest review freely given for this ARC book*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2019
Bernardine Nibley was brought up to be an independent young lady by her father, Lord Nibley, a high ranking and wealthy member of England's aristocracy. At a ball the young Scottish Laird sees Bernadine and is instantly enthralled. She spies him as well and looks forward to the possibility of a dance. However, all goes awry when Lord Nibley goes on a rant about the Scots in general and Donnan Young in particular. Donnan kidnaps Bernadine from her bed and spirits her away to his castle as payback for the insults. Can these two become more than captive and captor? Can anything change Lord Nibley's hatred for all Scotsmen? The author takes you on a journey with her characters and brings them to life vividly. I recommend this book and this author
July 14, 2019
Daring the Highlander
Bernadine war tired of the balls she had to attend. Laird Donnan Young was at this ball and felt he needed to know Bernadine. Her father stepped in and called the Laird terrible names. The Laird then decided to kidnap Bernadine to get even with her father Lord Nibley. Bernadine and the Laird fought like cats and dogs after she got to the castle. Finally they fell in love. Her father got her back and the Laird took her again and married. Her father got her back again but found that his daughter was with child. He then asked the Laird to come get his wife. They all forgave each other.
Bernadine war tired of the balls she had to attend. Laird Donnan Young was at this ball and felt he needed to know Bernadine. Her father stepped in and called the Laird terrible names. The Laird then decided to kidnap Bernadine to get even with her father Lord Nibley. Bernadine and the Laird fought like cats and dogs after she got to the castle. Finally they fell in love. Her father got her back and the Laird took her again and married. Her father got her back again but found that his daughter was with child. He then asked the Laird to come get his wife. They all forgave each other.
July 10, 2019
This is the story of Donnan & Bernadine. He is Scotish, and she is English. The obstacles they face because of her father's hatred for Scots was unbearable for both of them, even though one his friends were friends with Donnan as well. He insulted Donnan terribly, and Donnan sought to teach him a lesson. There were many obstacles to face for the two of them. This is a sad story at times. It is also a happy story at times, also. It was easy to follow because of how well written it was. Looking forward to the next book by Lydia Kendall.
August 4, 2019
This story is well written and the chemistry between the two characters is steamy. I'm not sure about Donnan, although the author tries to redeem him near the end of the story. Sarah is naive and stubborn and Donnan tries to tame her without success. Like the description of the book, Donnan is a bull in a china shop. He is temperamental and impetuous. The wonder is he didn't start a border war with the English. The writer is devious in how she gets her happily ever after. I enjoyed the story despite the immaturity of the our hero and heroine.
July 12, 2019
This is a well written book with strong characters and an entertaining story line. The author does a great job building the story and bringing it to life with her descriptive writing . She paints her scenes vividly and takes you back in time. She brings tons of action and emotions and delivers an exciting story.I enjoyed and would recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
July 12, 2019
Lydia has done it again. Her storyline has realistic characters starting with the cover which reminds me of beauty and the beast. It's love at first sight for Bernadine and the Laird. There are plenty of twists and turns to their HEA. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in a good read. I received this ARC in exchange for a voluntary honest review which I have freely written here.
July 13, 2019
Another great story that is well written and kept me turning pages. Donnan and Bernadine will have a lot to go through to get their happy ending. There is suspense, drama, danger, twists, turns, a villain, attempted murder, and romance. I liked Camdyn's part in the story. I received a copy of this book and I am voluntarily reviewing.
July 15, 2019
WOW... This book is filled with action, adventure, kidnapping, prejudice, anger and fury. This also tells of two hearts that get to know each other as they bare their souls to each other leading to true love. There are so many surprising twists and turns as well as unpredictable scenarios. An excellent read and I highly recommend it.
July 15, 2019
I liked this story and it has action, adventure and romance. It had me from the start and kept me wanting more. The characters were well written with some likeable and not so likeable. It is an interesting and enjoyable story and I would recommend it. Recieved an Advanced Copy of the book and am leaving my honest review.
August 8, 2019
Very Romantic and enjoyable book
This is a very enjoyable and romantic book, with a bit of spice. The whole story held me tight from beginning to end. I fell in love with the Hero and cared deeply about the Heroine. He was a very gentle, tender, kind man, with very deep emotions. This is the first book by this author I have read, but won’t be the last. I do recommend it.
This is a very enjoyable and romantic book, with a bit of spice. The whole story held me tight from beginning to end. I fell in love with the Hero and cared deeply about the Heroine. He was a very gentle, tender, kind man, with very deep emotions. This is the first book by this author I have read, but won’t be the last. I do recommend it.
August 26, 2019
Good Story!
Enjoyable from beginning to end. Being kidnapped and falling in love with your captor is not a new concept. The difficulties faced afterward and the fact of the female not feeling rushed in her own mind about marriage was unique. Making the male counterpart feel inadequate and unsure is unique. The happy ending, my favorite thing.....yes!
Enjoyable from beginning to end. Being kidnapped and falling in love with your captor is not a new concept. The difficulties faced afterward and the fact of the female not feeling rushed in her own mind about marriage was unique. Making the male counterpart feel inadequate and unsure is unique. The happy ending, my favorite thing.....yes!
July 8, 2019
Strong Highland Laird meets determined English Lass and everything changes. Can they overcome the problems facing them and will she forgive him for kidnapping her? This story keeps you turning the pages to find out what comes next.
July 15, 2019
Oh wow!
Talk about a hot,exciting,intriguing and passion filled storyline. This book had everything from kidnapping to a despicable father. What Donnan did was way wrong,but his heart and soul tell him love at first sight was the right thing to do. Absolutely great ending!
Talk about a hot,exciting,intriguing and passion filled storyline. This book had everything from kidnapping to a despicable father. What Donnan did was way wrong,but his heart and soul tell him love at first sight was the right thing to do. Absolutely great ending!
July 26, 2019
Wonderful book!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Love conquers all. After all the hardships this couple endured they had their happy ending. I loved it and highly recommend reading this book.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Love conquers all. After all the hardships this couple endured they had their happy ending. I loved it and highly recommend reading this book.
August 24, 2019
Fantastic!
This is a fabulous read! Such good writing I teared up at one point. I fell in love with these characters and my heart broke when theirs did! I highly recommend this book. An exceptional read!
This is a fabulous read! Such good writing I teared up at one point. I fell in love with these characters and my heart broke when theirs did! I highly recommend this book. An exceptional read!
September 19, 2019
A good read for a rainy day
It was written well but for me it became a little confusing as to her father's behaviour and how the treatment of his only daughter went from loving to something dark
It was written well but for me it became a little confusing as to her father's behaviour and how the treatment of his only daughter went from loving to something dark
September 27, 2019
Dating the High A Steamy Scottish Hoi Romance Novel
A very good story about love between a young English woman and a Scottish laird and the many strives they endured before a life of happiness This is a very good writer and a extended epilogue that is enjoyable
A very good story about love between a young English woman and a Scottish laird and the many strives they endured before a life of happiness This is a very good writer and a extended epilogue that is enjoyable
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews