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A woman running from her past. An outlaw determined to triumph over his. The twisted clan-chief who hunts them both. Redemption and healing wounded hearts in Medieval Scotland.
Sister Coira has a secret. She once worked in a brothel and was the favorite plaything of the MacKinnon clan-chief. But since fleeing the hardship of her old life, she has made a new one for herself—as a nun.
Unfortunately, the past has a way of catching up with you.
Coira's new identity is put in peril the day the leader of an outlaw band turns up badly hurt at the abbey. The clan-chief has put a price on his head, and although she can't turn an injured man away, Coira knows his presence at Kilbride will put them all in danger.
Craeg MacKinnon has tainted blood. He's the clan-chief's bastard brother. Driven by vengeance, Craeg has become a thorn in his half-brother's side—stealing from him and giving his wealth to the poor.
Despite that she knows she shouldn't, Coira finds herself irresistibly drawn to the outlaw. Likewise, Craeg can't keep away from the enigmatic yet alluring healer who has saved his life—a woman who is forbidden to him.
But as the clan-chief closes in, and the Black Death ravages the Isle of Skye, both Coira and Craeg's lives will be changed forever.
FALLEN is the heartfelt conclusion to The Sisters of Kilbride—a Scottish Medieval Romance series in 14th Century Isle of Skye, Scotland.
Sister Coira has a secret. She once worked in a brothel and was the favorite plaything of the MacKinnon clan-chief. But since fleeing the hardship of her old life, she has made a new one for herself—as a nun.
Unfortunately, the past has a way of catching up with you.
Coira's new identity is put in peril the day the leader of an outlaw band turns up badly hurt at the abbey. The clan-chief has put a price on his head, and although she can't turn an injured man away, Coira knows his presence at Kilbride will put them all in danger.
Craeg MacKinnon has tainted blood. He's the clan-chief's bastard brother. Driven by vengeance, Craeg has become a thorn in his half-brother's side—stealing from him and giving his wealth to the poor.
Despite that she knows she shouldn't, Coira finds herself irresistibly drawn to the outlaw. Likewise, Craeg can't keep away from the enigmatic yet alluring healer who has saved his life—a woman who is forbidden to him.
But as the clan-chief closes in, and the Black Death ravages the Isle of Skye, both Coira and Craeg's lives will be changed forever.
FALLEN is the heartfelt conclusion to The Sisters of Kilbride—a Scottish Medieval Romance series in 14th Century Isle of Skye, Scotland.
241 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 19, 2020
178 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
About the author
Jayne Castel
94 books398 followersMulti-award-winning author Jayne Castel writes epic Historical and Fantasy Romance. Her vibrant characters, richly researched historical settings and action-packed adventure romance transport readers to forgotten times and imaginary worlds.
Jayne is the author of a number of best-selling series. In love with all things Scottish, she writes romances set in both Dark Ages and Medieval Scotland.
When she's not writing, Jayne is reading (and re-reading) her favorite authors, cooking Italian feasts, and going on long walks with her husband. She's from New Zealand, but now lives in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Sign up to Jayne's newsletter and get a free bundle of short stories! https://www.jaynecastel.com/
Jayne loves to hear from her readers - email her at: contact@jaynecastel.com
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Follow Jayne on BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jayne...
Jayne is the author of a number of best-selling series. In love with all things Scottish, she writes romances set in both Dark Ages and Medieval Scotland.
When she's not writing, Jayne is reading (and re-reading) her favorite authors, cooking Italian feasts, and going on long walks with her husband. She's from New Zealand, but now lives in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Sign up to Jayne's newsletter and get a free bundle of short stories! https://www.jaynecastel.com/
Jayne loves to hear from her readers - email her at: contact@jaynecastel.com
Connect with Jayne on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaynecastel...
Connect with Jayne on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JayneCastelR...
Follow Jayne on Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/jaynecastel/...
Follow Jayne on BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jayne...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
June 4, 2020
Coira has intrigued me from early on in this series, and I was thrilled she got to tell her story. This author has become my go to for HR, I love the periods she sets her stories in as far back as the Picts.
Coira and Craeg's story is just as I'd hoped it would be, Coira the strong but sweet heroine and Craeg her perfect hero.
Coira and Craeg's story is just as I'd hoped it would be, Coira the strong but sweet heroine and Craeg her perfect hero.
May 25, 2020
Though her faith is indeed strong, Sister Coira has ulterior motives for joining the Abbey of Kilbride. She once worked in a brothel where she drew the unyielding notice of Duncan, Chief of the MacKinnon clan. Taking the veil was the best way to escape his cruelty and Coira has never looked back.
Coira's identity has already risked revelation given MacKinnon's increasing interest in the Abbey and its inhabitants. When Craeg MacKinnon, the chief's illegitimate brother and an outlaw with a price on his head, arrives grievously wounded at the Abbey, Coira knows she can't turn him away, even if it puts the sisters in more peril.
Craeg has always known himself to be inferior and ever since an attack from MacKinnon in their youth nearly killed him, he has been after revenge. He has spent years taunting his half-brother, stealing the clan Chief's ill-gotten gains and returning them to the poor. Craeg knows she is forbidden, but he cannot help the intense pull he feels toward Coira and she struggles with similar feelings for her handsome patient. With the arrival of the Black Death on the shores of Skye and Duncan MacKinnon's increasing fervor in his search for Craeg, there is every chance life will drastically change for both Coira and Craeg and their futures are far from certain.
This was a lovely conclusion to the series. I loved seeing women who were strong without being shrewish and a hero who was valiant and brave but also vulnerable. These two were lovely together and I'm looking forward to the epilogue novella as well.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Coira's identity has already risked revelation given MacKinnon's increasing interest in the Abbey and its inhabitants. When Craeg MacKinnon, the chief's illegitimate brother and an outlaw with a price on his head, arrives grievously wounded at the Abbey, Coira knows she can't turn him away, even if it puts the sisters in more peril.
Craeg has always known himself to be inferior and ever since an attack from MacKinnon in their youth nearly killed him, he has been after revenge. He has spent years taunting his half-brother, stealing the clan Chief's ill-gotten gains and returning them to the poor. Craeg knows she is forbidden, but he cannot help the intense pull he feels toward Coira and she struggles with similar feelings for her handsome patient. With the arrival of the Black Death on the shores of Skye and Duncan MacKinnon's increasing fervor in his search for Craeg, there is every chance life will drastically change for both Coira and Craeg and their futures are far from certain.
This was a lovely conclusion to the series. I loved seeing women who were strong without being shrewish and a hero who was valiant and brave but also vulnerable. These two were lovely together and I'm looking forward to the epilogue novella as well.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 26, 2020
Fallen: A Medieval Scottish Romance (The Sisters of Kilbride Book 3) by Jayne Castel.
Fantastic Writing! One of the best I’ve read this year! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Well Done! Highly Recommended Read!
This medieval historical romance has it all! The story grabbed my attention right from the start and didn’t let go until well after the very emotional ending. There’s multiple exciting plots with great world building, and an unbelievable cast of complex and endearing characters I just loved. While the people of Kilbride face uncertain times with their constant struggle to survive against the growing evil acts of the Clan-Chief, a new threat has arrived at their shores. The “Black Death” begins slowly waging fear and panic through the villages with a disease no one understands or knows how to fight or contain. The author has masterfully created such a heart-wrenching and beautifully written story that is gripping, engaging, and emotional with a romantic balance I find amazingly well done! I feel I can’t give this story enough justice in my review. I’m sad to see this series end but, wow, what an ending! This book can definitely be read as a stand alone, but in my opinion it’s better to read in order of the three book series.
Happy Reading♥️
Content Notes: Adult content. Steamy open door romance with some explicit details. Mention of rape (the act or details were not described).
Fantastic Writing! One of the best I’ve read this year! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Well Done! Highly Recommended Read!
This medieval historical romance has it all! The story grabbed my attention right from the start and didn’t let go until well after the very emotional ending. There’s multiple exciting plots with great world building, and an unbelievable cast of complex and endearing characters I just loved. While the people of Kilbride face uncertain times with their constant struggle to survive against the growing evil acts of the Clan-Chief, a new threat has arrived at their shores. The “Black Death” begins slowly waging fear and panic through the villages with a disease no one understands or knows how to fight or contain. The author has masterfully created such a heart-wrenching and beautifully written story that is gripping, engaging, and emotional with a romantic balance I find amazingly well done! I feel I can’t give this story enough justice in my review. I’m sad to see this series end but, wow, what an ending! This book can definitely be read as a stand alone, but in my opinion it’s better to read in order of the three book series.
Happy Reading♥️
Content Notes: Adult content. Steamy open door romance with some explicit details. Mention of rape (the act or details were not described).
May 20, 2020
I would give this a rating of 10 stars if I could! Wow, what an amazing read this was and as usual, Jayne Castel has outdone herself once again. I absolutely loved this story and I was so into it, I even growled at my hubby when he interrupted me a couple of times! lol
Coira and Craeg's story is filled with so many emotional scenes and not only have they got to overcome their past, they're also dealing with the Black Death which is causing devastation through Scotland and the rest of the world. With the Covid-19 situation we are living through right now, this brings it close to home!
Coira is such a strong character and I loved how she handled everything, good or bad. As for Craeg, be still my heart, such a swoon worthy hero! Even though he resembled the villain of the story, he was 100% the better man. When they finally declare their love to each other....yesssssss! lol I also must say that I loved Mother Shona and her kick a$$ nuns:) Oh and that epilogue? Absolutely perfect!!
I'm now looking forward to reading Drew and Carr's story!!
I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Coira and Craeg's story is filled with so many emotional scenes and not only have they got to overcome their past, they're also dealing with the Black Death which is causing devastation through Scotland and the rest of the world. With the Covid-19 situation we are living through right now, this brings it close to home!
Coira is such a strong character and I loved how she handled everything, good or bad. As for Craeg, be still my heart, such a swoon worthy hero! Even though he resembled the villain of the story, he was 100% the better man. When they finally declare their love to each other....yesssssss! lol I also must say that I loved Mother Shona and her kick a$$ nuns:) Oh and that epilogue? Absolutely perfect!!
I'm now looking forward to reading Drew and Carr's story!!
I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
June 2, 2020
Fitting End to Trilogy
I have read the three books of this trilogy (though I haven't read the extended epilogue yet). While I wasn't wild about the first one, I thoroughly enjoyed book 2 and book 3, this one. This one I felt was different than the other ones; the focus seemed to be on the whole arc of the story, not the romance. The author drew you right in with Coira’s story, with the first scene showing her after she suffered at the hands of the villain of this trilogy when she worked at a brothel. We see the day she escapes that life and finds refuge with the sisters of Kilbride. This isn't your standard romance that focuses strictly on the couple. It is really about bringing some various themes and subplots that have been going on the entire series together to their rightful end. As such, we see quite a bit more of the evil MacKinnon. The issues with the bubonic plague that were hinted at in the other books came into full play. The abbott Inquisitor becomes a thorn in everybody's side. Much of the first half, in fact, seems to be taken up with issues about him. So, not much really happens with the romance for the first half of the book or so, though we do see some of their interaction as he heals at the abbey. We do see a nascent attraction between them that neither truly feels they can act on, of course, as she is a nun and he is an outlaw. In fact, I actually thought the author did a good job showing how uncomfortable the heroine was with his attention and her feelings about it. After all, as a prostitute, she did not have good experiences with men.
Once the romance did get started, it had such sweet and beautiful elements; it does get steamy in the end, but those sensual scenes were perfectly in character. The hero was precisely the man that the heroine needed to be able to let go of her past. I loved the way he treated and respected her; he gave her grace with an open heart. I think one of my favorite lines in the book is when they're having a frank discussion about their feelings and their future. She says that she is broken, and he says something along the lines of that they will heal together. What a lovely idea. And I have to say that the final clash between the hero and his evil half-brother was epic! The abbess certainly surprised me with what she did on several counts, and it added tremendously to the scene.
My only real quibble with this book is that the author didn't handle some medical aspects appropriately. I am an RN, and we did do some study of historical medicine in nursing school. Some of what Sister Coira did as a healer would have never happened in medieval Scotland. They didn't know or use certain techniques, and they didn't have anywhere close to this sense of what infection was back then as we do today. They did not understand how disease was transmitted, so therefore they didn't know how to prevent it or how to actually cure infectious disease. And, of course, they didn't have the medications to do so. Certainly, healers back in that day would not be so preoccupied with hand washing or essentially wearing a mask (Coira wore a scarf). Hand-washing wasn't even advocated until the mid-1800s, and even then it was poo-pooed for decades. I'm not sure when wearing masks came into play in medicine, but it certainly was not in medieval times. The plague doctors did wear masks of a sort, but they weren't to fight transmission of disease but rather so that the doctor could smell something more pleasant than decaying flesh and puss. Those masks had a place in the beak-like nose for herbs. Disease was not thought to be transmitted person-to-person or through body fluids and effluents back then; disease was thought to be a result of fetid air or ill humors. (The fetid air theory even competed head-to-head with germ theory in the late 1800s.) The author does touch on this briefly but then has the healing nun act as if this weren't the way they thought it was. I won't keep belaboring this point, but it bothers me that authors give modern sensibilities about disease, infection, treatment, and medicine to times where those ideas just would have never existed. Characters often seem to have an almost mystical ability to know the far distant future of medicine and act because of this prescience. I would love to see a story that is truly factual in this regard because I think it would actually be compelling.
All in all, though, I thought this was a great end to the trilogy’s story arc. We get a little bonus at the end after the epilogue where we have a short story showing the three women of this series coming together to have a Christmas celebration. That felt like a nice wrap-up. There was a bit of an anachronism here as well as the idea of the Christmas tree was not popularized until the Victorian era; one of the women mentions something about all the pine trees being indoors at her home.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
I have read the three books of this trilogy (though I haven't read the extended epilogue yet). While I wasn't wild about the first one, I thoroughly enjoyed book 2 and book 3, this one. This one I felt was different than the other ones; the focus seemed to be on the whole arc of the story, not the romance. The author drew you right in with Coira’s story, with the first scene showing her after she suffered at the hands of the villain of this trilogy when she worked at a brothel. We see the day she escapes that life and finds refuge with the sisters of Kilbride. This isn't your standard romance that focuses strictly on the couple. It is really about bringing some various themes and subplots that have been going on the entire series together to their rightful end. As such, we see quite a bit more of the evil MacKinnon. The issues with the bubonic plague that were hinted at in the other books came into full play. The abbott Inquisitor becomes a thorn in everybody's side. Much of the first half, in fact, seems to be taken up with issues about him. So, not much really happens with the romance for the first half of the book or so, though we do see some of their interaction as he heals at the abbey. We do see a nascent attraction between them that neither truly feels they can act on, of course, as she is a nun and he is an outlaw. In fact, I actually thought the author did a good job showing how uncomfortable the heroine was with his attention and her feelings about it. After all, as a prostitute, she did not have good experiences with men.
Once the romance did get started, it had such sweet and beautiful elements; it does get steamy in the end, but those sensual scenes were perfectly in character. The hero was precisely the man that the heroine needed to be able to let go of her past. I loved the way he treated and respected her; he gave her grace with an open heart. I think one of my favorite lines in the book is when they're having a frank discussion about their feelings and their future. She says that she is broken, and he says something along the lines of that they will heal together. What a lovely idea. And I have to say that the final clash between the hero and his evil half-brother was epic! The abbess certainly surprised me with what she did on several counts, and it added tremendously to the scene.
My only real quibble with this book is that the author didn't handle some medical aspects appropriately. I am an RN, and we did do some study of historical medicine in nursing school. Some of what Sister Coira did as a healer would have never happened in medieval Scotland. They didn't know or use certain techniques, and they didn't have anywhere close to this sense of what infection was back then as we do today. They did not understand how disease was transmitted, so therefore they didn't know how to prevent it or how to actually cure infectious disease. And, of course, they didn't have the medications to do so. Certainly, healers back in that day would not be so preoccupied with hand washing or essentially wearing a mask (Coira wore a scarf). Hand-washing wasn't even advocated until the mid-1800s, and even then it was poo-pooed for decades. I'm not sure when wearing masks came into play in medicine, but it certainly was not in medieval times. The plague doctors did wear masks of a sort, but they weren't to fight transmission of disease but rather so that the doctor could smell something more pleasant than decaying flesh and puss. Those masks had a place in the beak-like nose for herbs. Disease was not thought to be transmitted person-to-person or through body fluids and effluents back then; disease was thought to be a result of fetid air or ill humors. (The fetid air theory even competed head-to-head with germ theory in the late 1800s.) The author does touch on this briefly but then has the healing nun act as if this weren't the way they thought it was. I won't keep belaboring this point, but it bothers me that authors give modern sensibilities about disease, infection, treatment, and medicine to times where those ideas just would have never existed. Characters often seem to have an almost mystical ability to know the far distant future of medicine and act because of this prescience. I would love to see a story that is truly factual in this regard because I think it would actually be compelling.
All in all, though, I thought this was a great end to the trilogy’s story arc. We get a little bonus at the end after the epilogue where we have a short story showing the three women of this series coming together to have a Christmas celebration. That felt like a nice wrap-up. There was a bit of an anachronism here as well as the idea of the Christmas tree was not popularized until the Victorian era; one of the women mentions something about all the pine trees being indoors at her home.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
April 22, 2024
This book is why I read romance. I've enjoyed all the books in the series, even though some characters made me mad and some heros undeserving... I'm looking at you LACHLANN! This book, if I could give it more stars I would.
Coira has a secret that she hopes lays buried in the past, but when Mckinnon recognizes her, her peace is shattered. Coira is forced out of the walls of Kilbride to face her fears. How? By the appearance of Craeg the B@st@rd who is the half brother of the awful clan chief. In the last skirmish with his brother, Craeg was gravely injured and fell at the gates of Kilbride.
At first, Coira is startled that her patient looks so much like the clan chief, but in spending more time with him and nursing his injury back to health Coira finds out that he's a man who has empathy for others. This empathy makes folks flock to Craeg and support him.
When the Abbott shows up to investigate Mother Shona and her Convent, they have to keep Craeg hidden, and also the fact that Mother Shona has taught the nuns to defend themselves. The Abbott finds out anyway, of course, but everything is disrupted by the plague hitting the isle.
Coira is a healer, and when Craeg's Outlaw band approaches her to assist with their sick, Coira makes up her mind she'd leave the convent for good, because not only is the Abbott hot on her tail, so is the awful clan chief who threatens to claim her after the war with his brother is done.
Coira's surprise when Craeg voices his feelings is priceless, and her running away in fright was as well. How can she feel this way about a man? Not only is she a bride of Christ, but her past also included her time as a prostitute (which is where Duncan Mackinnon knows her from) How can anyone feel that way about her?
Craeg is a sweetheart, and I loved him even more than Taran. I loved Coira as well.
The supporting characters were top notch and there's even a bonus story about Mother Shona after Coira's story concludes.
The only part I question is lancing the pustules. Morbidly curious, I did a quick Google search and it said that this treatment is likely to backfire and introduce toxins back into the body. Coira did say that some people died from the treatment... so maybe it was that. Ugh, but how very gruesome.
The author had a note at the end where she wrote this in 2020 when we were in the grips of Covid. Even before I read that note, the fear the characters expressed "is this gonna take me?" reached out to me. That was an awful fear. Maybe another reason this book grabbed my heart.
I need more heros like Craeg and more heroines like Coira. Thank you, Jayne Castel for writing this book. I'll remember this story for years. 100 stars.
Coira has a secret that she hopes lays buried in the past, but when Mckinnon recognizes her, her peace is shattered. Coira is forced out of the walls of Kilbride to face her fears. How? By the appearance of Craeg the B@st@rd who is the half brother of the awful clan chief. In the last skirmish with his brother, Craeg was gravely injured and fell at the gates of Kilbride.
At first, Coira is startled that her patient looks so much like the clan chief, but in spending more time with him and nursing his injury back to health Coira finds out that he's a man who has empathy for others. This empathy makes folks flock to Craeg and support him.
When the Abbott shows up to investigate Mother Shona and her Convent, they have to keep Craeg hidden, and also the fact that Mother Shona has taught the nuns to defend themselves. The Abbott finds out anyway, of course, but everything is disrupted by the plague hitting the isle.
Coira is a healer, and when Craeg's Outlaw band approaches her to assist with their sick, Coira makes up her mind she'd leave the convent for good, because not only is the Abbott hot on her tail, so is the awful clan chief who threatens to claim her after the war with his brother is done.
Coira's surprise when Craeg voices his feelings is priceless, and her running away in fright was as well. How can she feel this way about a man? Not only is she a bride of Christ, but her past also included her time as a prostitute (which is where Duncan Mackinnon knows her from) How can anyone feel that way about her?
Craeg is a sweetheart, and I loved him even more than Taran. I loved Coira as well.
The supporting characters were top notch and there's even a bonus story about Mother Shona after Coira's story concludes.
The only part I question is lancing the pustules. Morbidly curious, I did a quick Google search and it said that this treatment is likely to backfire and introduce toxins back into the body. Coira did say that some people died from the treatment... so maybe it was that. Ugh, but how very gruesome.
The author had a note at the end where she wrote this in 2020 when we were in the grips of Covid. Even before I read that note, the fear the characters expressed "is this gonna take me?" reached out to me. That was an awful fear. Maybe another reason this book grabbed my heart.
I need more heros like Craeg and more heroines like Coira. Thank you, Jayne Castel for writing this book. I'll remember this story for years. 100 stars.
September 20, 2024
My first time reading Jayne Castel’s work and I’m absolutely head over heels! A tale of a forbidden love between an outlaw and a nun. A relationship that blossoms beyond a healer and her patient. I remember reading a similar story from Madeline Baker called Hawk’s Woman. And I’ve been looking for more of such premise in other books that would offer me such solace but to no avail.
This story features a very multifaceted heroine ; a former prostitute turned nun who is also a talented healer. She used to work at a brothel where she was kept as a constant plaything to a Mackinnon clan chief named Duncan. He had an affinity in a costume role play where he’d have Coira dressing up as a nun. Often during their roleplay, Coira would end up in bruises because he was so rough on her during the intercourse. Deciding that she’d end his torment once and for all, she escaped the brothel and took off to Kilbride abbey in the nun’s costume and took her vow.
Fast forward 10 years later, an outlaw named Craeg was found lying with an arrow shot to his side near the abbey. One of the sisters brought him to Coira to be nursed. Looking at Craeg’s limp figure, she was struck dumb at how similar he looked to Duncan. But it was made known to her at the time that Craeg was actually the illegitimate brother of Duncan whose father had slept with a prostitute from the same brothel Coira used to work at. Craeg grew up with a lot resentment from the father and his half brother which carried on till his adulthood. In fact, the arrow wound that he suffered from was from being hunted by Duncan during his escape from the Mackinnons.
My favourite part of the story would be when Coira was tending to Craeg. This was when the romance slowly blossomed between them and how both shared a similar tragic backstory with living in a brothel (while his mother was servicing the clients, he helped clean up the brothel and acted as a bodyguard to the other prostitutes in case any of the clients become rough and temperamental). There is no insta-lust happening here but rather a slowburn one. I have always been into a steamy romance but for some reason, glimpses and fleeting glances shared between Coira and Craeg prove to be far more sensual than any erotica romance I’ve read. The sexual tension between them is so well done without hovering over the line of vulgarity. Coira was fully covered for 70% of the book so there was no mention of her beautiful hair, her nudity which so often becomes the case with HR when it comes to romance and lust. As much as Craeg was fantasising about her, he learned to reign in his lust and keep his desires at bay out of respect for Coira’s chastity vows to God (although he has yet to learn about her former occupation).
This story features a very multifaceted heroine ; a former prostitute turned nun who is also a talented healer. She used to work at a brothel where she was kept as a constant plaything to a Mackinnon clan chief named Duncan. He had an affinity in a costume role play where he’d have Coira dressing up as a nun. Often during their roleplay, Coira would end up in bruises because he was so rough on her during the intercourse. Deciding that she’d end his torment once and for all, she escaped the brothel and took off to Kilbride abbey in the nun’s costume and took her vow.
Fast forward 10 years later, an outlaw named Craeg was found lying with an arrow shot to his side near the abbey. One of the sisters brought him to Coira to be nursed. Looking at Craeg’s limp figure, she was struck dumb at how similar he looked to Duncan. But it was made known to her at the time that Craeg was actually the illegitimate brother of Duncan whose father had slept with a prostitute from the same brothel Coira used to work at. Craeg grew up with a lot resentment from the father and his half brother which carried on till his adulthood. In fact, the arrow wound that he suffered from was from being hunted by Duncan during his escape from the Mackinnons.
My favourite part of the story would be when Coira was tending to Craeg. This was when the romance slowly blossomed between them and how both shared a similar tragic backstory with living in a brothel (while his mother was servicing the clients, he helped clean up the brothel and acted as a bodyguard to the other prostitutes in case any of the clients become rough and temperamental). There is no insta-lust happening here but rather a slowburn one. I have always been into a steamy romance but for some reason, glimpses and fleeting glances shared between Coira and Craeg prove to be far more sensual than any erotica romance I’ve read. The sexual tension between them is so well done without hovering over the line of vulgarity. Coira was fully covered for 70% of the book so there was no mention of her beautiful hair, her nudity which so often becomes the case with HR when it comes to romance and lust. As much as Craeg was fantasising about her, he learned to reign in his lust and keep his desires at bay out of respect for Coira’s chastity vows to God (although he has yet to learn about her former occupation).
May 28, 2020
Fallen
The Sisters of Killbride #3
Jayne Castel
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Sister Coira has quite the secret. Once, she worked in a brothel and he was the favorite of the MacKinnon clan-chief, but since fleeing from the brothel one day, she has made a new life for herself. The life of a nun.
Coira's world is about to come crashing down. Her new identity is put in peril the day the leader of an outlaw band turns up almost dead at the abbey. The clan-cheif has put a price on his head, and although she can't turn an injured man away, Coira knows that his presence at Killbride Abbey will put them all in danger.
Craeger MacKinnon has tainedted blood. He is the clan-chiefs's bastard brother after all. Driven by vengeance, Craeg has become a thorn in his half brother's side by stealing from him and giving his wealth to the poor.
Even though Coira knows she shouldn't she finds herself drawn to the Outlaw. Craeg himself is having the same reaction and is drawn to Coira just as much and not able to keep away from the young healer who saves his life and helps him escape.
But as the clan chief closes in and the black death ravages the Isle of Skye, both Coira and Craeg's lives will be changed forever.
Wow once again Jayne Castel brings a nother trilogy to a close very neatly leaving me thinking no...please....I want more. This was absolutely fantastic. These two main characters were made for eachother. Coira deserved someone to love her and Craeg knew how to fill those shoes. They just seemed to both click and away they went. Their story blended so well and I love the way that Ms. Castel brought everyone together at the end. I was very satisfied reading this book and can't wait to see what comes our way next.
The Sisters of Killbride #3
Jayne Castel
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Sister Coira has quite the secret. Once, she worked in a brothel and he was the favorite of the MacKinnon clan-chief, but since fleeing from the brothel one day, she has made a new life for herself. The life of a nun.
Coira's world is about to come crashing down. Her new identity is put in peril the day the leader of an outlaw band turns up almost dead at the abbey. The clan-cheif has put a price on his head, and although she can't turn an injured man away, Coira knows that his presence at Killbride Abbey will put them all in danger.
Craeger MacKinnon has tainedted blood. He is the clan-chiefs's bastard brother after all. Driven by vengeance, Craeg has become a thorn in his half brother's side by stealing from him and giving his wealth to the poor.
Even though Coira knows she shouldn't she finds herself drawn to the Outlaw. Craeg himself is having the same reaction and is drawn to Coira just as much and not able to keep away from the young healer who saves his life and helps him escape.
But as the clan chief closes in and the black death ravages the Isle of Skye, both Coira and Craeg's lives will be changed forever.
Wow once again Jayne Castel brings a nother trilogy to a close very neatly leaving me thinking no...please....I want more. This was absolutely fantastic. These two main characters were made for eachother. Coira deserved someone to love her and Craeg knew how to fill those shoes. They just seemed to both click and away they went. Their story blended so well and I love the way that Ms. Castel brought everyone together at the end. I was very satisfied reading this book and can't wait to see what comes our way next.
May 26, 2020
Oh WOW! Jayne Castel sure delivered with this book!!! What a fabulous finale for the Sisters of Kilbride trilogy! Best book ever!!! And I don't say that lightly! This author's books are always well written with well-developed characters that just come alive on the page. She enables you to see, smell, taste, and almost touch the world she creates. She understands and writes of the feelings and anguish of the broken, afraid and vulnerable but through their inner strength and perseverance they can triumph over any obstacle and ultimately find true love.
This is the poignant and heartwarming story of Coira and Craeg, two people with tortured backgrounds who are brought together by fate. They face the Black Death too which I found very profound as we are dealing with our own modern day plague right now! They also deal with Craeg's half-brother, clan-chief Duncan, who is an evil, nasty piece of work who has tormented the heroines in all three books. He finally gets what he deserves in this one!
I loved the whole trilogy but this book is icing on the cake! They are standalone stories but I recommend reading the other books to get the full scope and backstory of these wonderful heroes and heroines as they are all intertwined and are all gems. I also loved how they were all brought back together again in the Epilogue. Great touch, Ms. Castel! I rated this 5 Stars although it deserves so much more! I look forward to reading whatever books she has in store for us in the future. Please give us more!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the poignant and heartwarming story of Coira and Craeg, two people with tortured backgrounds who are brought together by fate. They face the Black Death too which I found very profound as we are dealing with our own modern day plague right now! They also deal with Craeg's half-brother, clan-chief Duncan, who is an evil, nasty piece of work who has tormented the heroines in all three books. He finally gets what he deserves in this one!
I loved the whole trilogy but this book is icing on the cake! They are standalone stories but I recommend reading the other books to get the full scope and backstory of these wonderful heroes and heroines as they are all intertwined and are all gems. I also loved how they were all brought back together again in the Epilogue. Great touch, Ms. Castel! I rated this 5 Stars although it deserves so much more! I look forward to reading whatever books she has in store for us in the future. Please give us more!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 2, 2020
There is just something that I love about the way Jayne Castel writes. She does have a way with words and this has been a fantastic series! I love everything about it starting with the Prologue which gives the reader an interesting background to the main character, Coira. Then there is the Epilogue which is also a very nice touch.
The author starts chapter one 10 1/2 years into the future of this character. Coira is tending an elderly man who fears he may have the plague. But, he only has the grippe. The plague has not reached this area yet. After helping the man, Coira goes home to the abbey and is greeted by a novice nun with the news that there is an injured man .
Craig the Bastard, the outlaw leader, is injured and finds himself at the abbey where Coira, a healer helps him recover from his wounds. I loved the way they interacted with each other. There is a lot of chemistry between these two characters. But also a lot of obstacles they must conquer.
Duncan McKinnon, the clan chief is Craig's half brother. He is an evil man who hates Craig and will do anything to get what he wants and has a past with Coira.
The battle between Craig and his half-brother, Duncan the rightful heir and ruler of the area was epic with a surprise ending. I held my breath while reading every word.
Mother Shona, the abbess of Kilbride Abbey is a great character with many surprises. She teaches the women under her care some very interesting skills.
I am sorry this series has ended but will find her other books to read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The author starts chapter one 10 1/2 years into the future of this character. Coira is tending an elderly man who fears he may have the plague. But, he only has the grippe. The plague has not reached this area yet. After helping the man, Coira goes home to the abbey and is greeted by a novice nun with the news that there is an injured man .
Craig the Bastard, the outlaw leader, is injured and finds himself at the abbey where Coira, a healer helps him recover from his wounds. I loved the way they interacted with each other. There is a lot of chemistry between these two characters. But also a lot of obstacles they must conquer.
Duncan McKinnon, the clan chief is Craig's half brother. He is an evil man who hates Craig and will do anything to get what he wants and has a past with Coira.
The battle between Craig and his half-brother, Duncan the rightful heir and ruler of the area was epic with a surprise ending. I held my breath while reading every word.
Mother Shona, the abbess of Kilbride Abbey is a great character with many surprises. She teaches the women under her care some very interesting skills.
I am sorry this series has ended but will find her other books to read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 23, 2020
A heart pounding suspenseful romance.
Although some pasts are more colorful than others, everyone has one. What really matters is what truth one learns from his or her past experiences.
Before making her escape and entering the order at Kilbride Abbey, Sister Coira never dreamed of having a safe and serene life. Now that she has enjoyed the protection from her past, Coira will do whatever she must to secure a safe future.
Before escaping an ambush and taking refuge at the Kilbride Abbey, Craeg could only dream of exacting his revenge against his evil brother, Duncan MacKinnon. Now that Craeg has healed enough to leave the abbey, he still intends to do whatever he must to rid Dunan of its oppressive laird.
The fourteenth century was a hard and unforgiving time. Within the pages of Fallen, Jayne Castel has build a world that is the perfect backdrop for Coira and Craeg's heart pounding and suspenseful love story. Filled with historical events, this well written and engrossing read has several close calls and a number of surprises. With all the odds stacked against Coira and Craeg, they will need to be both courageous and resourceful if they are to have a chance at a happy ever after. Thankfully they are up for the challenge and their ever after is a satisfying one.
Content 411: Although there are no vulgarities, this book does allude to abusive behavior, catastrophic illness and some moderately described sexual intimacies.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the author via Booksprout. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
Although some pasts are more colorful than others, everyone has one. What really matters is what truth one learns from his or her past experiences.
Before making her escape and entering the order at Kilbride Abbey, Sister Coira never dreamed of having a safe and serene life. Now that she has enjoyed the protection from her past, Coira will do whatever she must to secure a safe future.
Before escaping an ambush and taking refuge at the Kilbride Abbey, Craeg could only dream of exacting his revenge against his evil brother, Duncan MacKinnon. Now that Craeg has healed enough to leave the abbey, he still intends to do whatever he must to rid Dunan of its oppressive laird.
The fourteenth century was a hard and unforgiving time. Within the pages of Fallen, Jayne Castel has build a world that is the perfect backdrop for Coira and Craeg's heart pounding and suspenseful love story. Filled with historical events, this well written and engrossing read has several close calls and a number of surprises. With all the odds stacked against Coira and Craeg, they will need to be both courageous and resourceful if they are to have a chance at a happy ever after. Thankfully they are up for the challenge and their ever after is a satisfying one.
Content 411: Although there are no vulgarities, this book does allude to abusive behavior, catastrophic illness and some moderately described sexual intimacies.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the author via Booksprout. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
June 1, 2020
💘Love Is A Memory No One Can Steal
ADULT Highlander Romance and Adventure
Isle of Skye, Scotland 1338 AD
Coira💃💋 is an orphan, a young prostitute who must put up with the cruelty of Laird Duncan MacKinnon👺🔪 of Castle Dunan🏰. He is handsome but arrogant and cruel, especially to women. He's a sadist. Coira💃💋 dreams of stabbing🔪 Duncan👺🔪. Instead, she runs away to the sanctuary of Kilbride Abbey.
1348 AD. The plague💀, the black death is coming. It will even hit the relatively isolated Isle of Skye.
Coira💃💋 is a nun and an accomplished healer now, even though she isn't particularly religious.
One day a badly wounded stranger is found at the fortified gate of the abbey. Coira💃💋 is asked to tend to him, he has a terribly infected arrow wound in his side. When she sees him, she nearly faints with dread, she thought he was Duncan👺🔪, the abusive laird! But she realizes he just looks like him. As he recovers in her care, she finds out he is Craeg🐺🍆⛲💪🔪, the illegitimate half brother of Duncan👺🔪 and a bandit who skirmishes with Duncan👺🔪 and his men. Craeg🐺🍆⛲💪🔪 and the people who follow him want to be free of Duncan👺🔪, the oppressive and cruel laird.
Now the abbess will be accused of harboring a criminal!
Coira💃💋 lives four lifetimes in one, first as a homeless orphan forced into prostitution, then as a nun and healer. Her third lifetime is as a rebel against the hated Laird👺🔪 and healer for her lover💕 Craeg🐺🍆⛲💪🔪 and his freedom fighters. Her fourth lifetime, and surely the best, is......well you'll just have to read this exceptional medieval Scottish romance to find out!
ARC Provided by Booksprout🌱
I also got This ebook with KU.
ADULT Highlander Romance and Adventure
Isle of Skye, Scotland 1338 AD
Coira💃💋 is an orphan, a young prostitute who must put up with the cruelty of Laird Duncan MacKinnon👺🔪 of Castle Dunan🏰. He is handsome but arrogant and cruel, especially to women. He's a sadist. Coira💃💋 dreams of stabbing🔪 Duncan👺🔪. Instead, she runs away to the sanctuary of Kilbride Abbey.
1348 AD. The plague💀, the black death is coming. It will even hit the relatively isolated Isle of Skye.
Coira💃💋 is a nun and an accomplished healer now, even though she isn't particularly religious.
One day a badly wounded stranger is found at the fortified gate of the abbey. Coira💃💋 is asked to tend to him, he has a terribly infected arrow wound in his side. When she sees him, she nearly faints with dread, she thought he was Duncan👺🔪, the abusive laird! But she realizes he just looks like him. As he recovers in her care, she finds out he is Craeg🐺🍆⛲💪🔪, the illegitimate half brother of Duncan👺🔪 and a bandit who skirmishes with Duncan👺🔪 and his men. Craeg🐺🍆⛲💪🔪 and the people who follow him want to be free of Duncan👺🔪, the oppressive and cruel laird.
Now the abbess will be accused of harboring a criminal!
Coira💃💋 lives four lifetimes in one, first as a homeless orphan forced into prostitution, then as a nun and healer. Her third lifetime is as a rebel against the hated Laird👺🔪 and healer for her lover💕 Craeg🐺🍆⛲💪🔪 and his freedom fighters. Her fourth lifetime, and surely the best, is......well you'll just have to read this exceptional medieval Scottish romance to find out!
ARC Provided by Booksprout🌱
I also got This ebook with KU.
May 27, 2020
Jayne Castel at her best!!
Two individuals damaged both physically and mentally find each other after many years of trying to find peace for their tormented lives. Craeg McKinnon, Craeg the Bastard as he is commonly known, is a man who has tried to do right to all that have been tormented by his half-brother Duncan McKinnon. Duncan McKinnon rules with an evil and vindictive hand. Coira a woman who has spent her many years as a whore has never known love and kindness and is badly mistreated as Duncan McKinnon's favorite whore. She escapes this life and takes refuge at Kilbride Abbey for many years. Craig has been badly wounded during an attack by Duncan McKinnon. He is brought to the Abbey in hopes the nuns will be able to save him. Coira is the healer at Kilbride and takes over the care of Craig.
The chemistry between Craig and Coira is beautiful. Craig realizes the damage done to Coira and is patient, loving and kind. Their journey together is so well written by Jayne Castell. Another Kilbride Abbey story brought to life as only she can write it. This journey will bring tears.
This story takes place during the Black Plague which resembles the Corvus-19 virus we are now fighting. Their attempts at avoiding and controlling. This book should not be missed and I enthusiastically recommend it!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Two individuals damaged both physically and mentally find each other after many years of trying to find peace for their tormented lives. Craeg McKinnon, Craeg the Bastard as he is commonly known, is a man who has tried to do right to all that have been tormented by his half-brother Duncan McKinnon. Duncan McKinnon rules with an evil and vindictive hand. Coira a woman who has spent her many years as a whore has never known love and kindness and is badly mistreated as Duncan McKinnon's favorite whore. She escapes this life and takes refuge at Kilbride Abbey for many years. Craig has been badly wounded during an attack by Duncan McKinnon. He is brought to the Abbey in hopes the nuns will be able to save him. Coira is the healer at Kilbride and takes over the care of Craig.
The chemistry between Craig and Coira is beautiful. Craig realizes the damage done to Coira and is patient, loving and kind. Their journey together is so well written by Jayne Castell. Another Kilbride Abbey story brought to life as only she can write it. This journey will bring tears.
This story takes place during the Black Plague which resembles the Corvus-19 virus we are now fighting. Their attempts at avoiding and controlling. This book should not be missed and I enthusiastically recommend it!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 22, 2020
Fallen is the third book in a medieval historical fiction series about three nuns who come to the convent of Kilbride to escape painful events in their past and in the process, find peace and friendship with their sister nuns. That is, until their past catches up with them. All three stories are excellent, and though they can be read as stand alones, reading all three is more satisfying and definitely worth it.
Fallen is Sister Coira’s story and, in my opinion, is the most poignant and heartwarming of the three. She meets Craeg when he staggers into the convent nearly dying from a wound, inflicted by his half-brother, Duncan. In the course of nursing him he finds a kindred spirit in Coira, who also suffered abuse in the past from Duncan.
Circumstances bring them together and although Coira fears men, Craeg helps her overcome her fear, just as she helps him see that he is a worthy person, in spite of his lowly origins.
I loved this book, and the epilogue brought the three former sisters and their husbands together for a heartwarming ending. Jayne Castel is one of my favorite writers so I asked if I could review an ARC of Fallen. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Fallen is Sister Coira’s story and, in my opinion, is the most poignant and heartwarming of the three. She meets Craeg when he staggers into the convent nearly dying from a wound, inflicted by his half-brother, Duncan. In the course of nursing him he finds a kindred spirit in Coira, who also suffered abuse in the past from Duncan.
Circumstances bring them together and although Coira fears men, Craeg helps her overcome her fear, just as she helps him see that he is a worthy person, in spite of his lowly origins.
I loved this book, and the epilogue brought the three former sisters and their husbands together for a heartwarming ending. Jayne Castel is one of my favorite writers so I asked if I could review an ARC of Fallen. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 28, 2020
Absolutely, perfectly amazing! Two people who are totally imperfect, one illegitimate and one a former brothel worker, find love during a pandemic while taking down one of the most horrid and evil villains I have ever read about. There is no down time for the characters or the readers because Jayne has crafted an exemplary plot that pulls everyone (characters and readers) through emotional and physical highs and lows.
Once I started reading, I could not stop. This is one of those books that you ask yourself, do you really need that snack from the kitchen (the answer is no, so grab everything before you begin reading) and even though I am only at 22% do I really need to use the restroom (again, the answer is no, so go before you start).
When I finally read the last word, I literally sighed with almost 100% contentment, it was like 99%, but the next book due out in two weeks takes it to 100%. This was such an amazing, brilliant, breathtaking story that I cannot urge you enough to read it. You will not be sorry you did.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Once I started reading, I could not stop. This is one of those books that you ask yourself, do you really need that snack from the kitchen (the answer is no, so grab everything before you begin reading) and even though I am only at 22% do I really need to use the restroom (again, the answer is no, so go before you start).
When I finally read the last word, I literally sighed with almost 100% contentment, it was like 99%, but the next book due out in two weeks takes it to 100%. This was such an amazing, brilliant, breathtaking story that I cannot urge you enough to read it. You will not be sorry you did.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 2, 2020
Every time I read a new story by Jayne Castel, I am in awe of her magical words that create scenes and characters that come alive, as if you are there with them. She never fails to grab my heart from the very first page and invest my imagination for hours.
Coira has survived a hard life since she was orphaned at ten years old and had survived or rather endured torture from a beast of a man, until she finally was able to escape and took refuge in Kilbride Abbey to serve as a nun and healer.
Now ten years later the past seems to have invaded her sanctuary, Craeg McKinnon, known as Craeg the bastard due to being the bastard brother of the Evil Laird McKinnon, landed at their gate, almost dead and the nuns took him in for sanctuary and healing. Craeg was known to the people for taking from his brother and the rich and giving to the poor or those in need and thought highly of for his good deeds. He was hunted by the Laird who was out to kill him and almost had.
Two souls who had endured so much are brought together and it is wonderful to see it unfold. There is a journey they will take that may seem insurmountable, but I could only sigh at the end..
Coira has survived a hard life since she was orphaned at ten years old and had survived or rather endured torture from a beast of a man, until she finally was able to escape and took refuge in Kilbride Abbey to serve as a nun and healer.
Now ten years later the past seems to have invaded her sanctuary, Craeg McKinnon, known as Craeg the bastard due to being the bastard brother of the Evil Laird McKinnon, landed at their gate, almost dead and the nuns took him in for sanctuary and healing. Craeg was known to the people for taking from his brother and the rich and giving to the poor or those in need and thought highly of for his good deeds. He was hunted by the Laird who was out to kill him and almost had.
Two souls who had endured so much are brought together and it is wonderful to see it unfold. There is a journey they will take that may seem insurmountable, but I could only sigh at the end..
February 27, 2023
2.5/3 Stars
This one was okay. A decent wrap up to the series. I wasn't sure what to expect for Coira tbh because in the previous books the way the author described her it didn't paint her in a particularly flattering light. But I actually really liked her.
I really liked Craeg. I wish we could have spent more time in his head and really gotten to know him and his past. He was such a fascinating hero.
I found them as a couple more believable than most this author usually writes. I felt they actually did form a bond while she helped care for him from his wound. It felt genuine. Especially so when Coira found herself struggling with her new feelings and thoughts for him that no nun should have.
I thought they truly fit well as a couple and I loved that Craeg was essentially gone for her after their brief time together.
I think this book was the highlight because of Mother Shona. She was probably the most interesting character of all.
Sadly the book was a bit of a downer because the backdrop heavily centered on the feud between Craeg and Duncan coming to a head but more so the plague that began killing so many. It was a bit depressing with the surroundings but what can ya do?
This one was okay. A decent wrap up to the series. I wasn't sure what to expect for Coira tbh because in the previous books the way the author described her it didn't paint her in a particularly flattering light. But I actually really liked her.
I really liked Craeg. I wish we could have spent more time in his head and really gotten to know him and his past. He was such a fascinating hero.
I found them as a couple more believable than most this author usually writes. I felt they actually did form a bond while she helped care for him from his wound. It felt genuine. Especially so when Coira found herself struggling with her new feelings and thoughts for him that no nun should have.
I thought they truly fit well as a couple and I loved that Craeg was essentially gone for her after their brief time together.
I think this book was the highlight because of Mother Shona. She was probably the most interesting character of all.
Sadly the book was a bit of a downer because the backdrop heavily centered on the feud between Craeg and Duncan coming to a head but more so the plague that began killing so many. It was a bit depressing with the surroundings but what can ya do?
May 27, 2020
Just finished Fallen! Oh my!
This is the third book in the series. Definitely a more dramatic and grim setting. It takes place during the time of the plague. With all that is going on in our time period it made the book and situations more realistic or understandable for me. Cleaning, sanitizing, covering with scarfs....
The sensitive nature of the relationship that builds in this book was done very well. Coira’s upbringing leads her to a place and time in her life that she’d rather leave it behind- and it’s clear for a while she was safe. Life threatening circumstances lead her to Craeg, who also has a past which links them, and from there their budding relationship begins. Healing, trust and unconditional love are four words that come to mind while reading this book. It was very well written and was a great third book to the series! I loved it!
I did receive an ARC of this book for an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the third book in the series. Definitely a more dramatic and grim setting. It takes place during the time of the plague. With all that is going on in our time period it made the book and situations more realistic or understandable for me. Cleaning, sanitizing, covering with scarfs....
The sensitive nature of the relationship that builds in this book was done very well. Coira’s upbringing leads her to a place and time in her life that she’d rather leave it behind- and it’s clear for a while she was safe. Life threatening circumstances lead her to Craeg, who also has a past which links them, and from there their budding relationship begins. Healing, trust and unconditional love are four words that come to mind while reading this book. It was very well written and was a great third book to the series! I loved it!
I did receive an ARC of this book for an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 31, 2020
Fascinating story that brings the story of the MacKinnon clan and Kilbride Abbey to a satisfying conclusion. Along the way, the reader will learn a bit of the horrors of the bubonic plague as experienced in medieval Scotland/Isle of Skye, that actually makes one feel lucky to only be dealing with COVID-19! The depiction of the disease course, signs and symptoms, and “treatments” of the day are accurate—-be prepared to learn! The human experience aspect is, however, ever the focus of the story, with a love story the theme around which all else occurs.
Our heroine, Sister Coira, and our Hero, Craeg MacKinnon, are both people born at the bottom of society. Hard work and having strength of character with an unselfish commitment to helping their fellow men and women, set wonderful examples of what one can do with such humble beginnings. Although adult material appears near the end, I was able to skip over it and finish the book. In all, a very good series which was well worth reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Our heroine, Sister Coira, and our Hero, Craeg MacKinnon, are both people born at the bottom of society. Hard work and having strength of character with an unselfish commitment to helping their fellow men and women, set wonderful examples of what one can do with such humble beginnings. Although adult material appears near the end, I was able to skip over it and finish the book. In all, a very good series which was well worth reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 25, 2020
I have loved everyone of the books so far and this one did not disappoint. This books picks up straight after the one before and has Craeg found outside the Abbey suffers from his battle injuries. Coira as the healer then looks after him. Both have many mutual links in their pasts and a number of shared experiences. It is only a matter of time before Duncan MacKinnon, who grows ever more obsessive, shatters their worlds again. Loads of action, humour, battle scenes, evil in many forms alongside love and loyalty. Lots of parallels between the plague and the current coronavirus. Great book and beautiful epilogue.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 26, 2020
This has been the most wonderous series, and although I was very sad to see it all come to an end, it was terrific that Coira finally got her much deserved HEA. Craeg too. I've loved all the women in these books, but Coira and Mother Shona became my favorites after reading this story. Although, it would be nice to hear more about what happened to the rest of the nuns in the future, so perhaps there is hope that the series will continue afterall :) Courage, survival, overcoming hardship and trauma, sorrow, loss, revenge, justice, friendship, #metoo, the bubonic plague, tyranny, corruption, sexism, sacrifice, loyalty, hope, and love were some of the underlying themes in this bingeworthy adventure.
I received a free copy of Fallen, but that did not affect my review.
I received a free copy of Fallen, but that did not affect my review.
May 26, 2020
Wow! A great third book in this series. Jayne Castel is such a fantastic writer who keeps you enthralled from page one till Finnish.
In this story we meet up with Sister Coira again and learn more about her and how she came to be at the Abbey. We also meet up again with Creag MacKinnon who has suffered a bad injury and is at the Abby to seek help to recover. Here Coira and Creag start to form a bond and as he heals there are tough decisions to be made.
The story is well written with strong characters, great detail about surroundings. The story is full of surprises, challenges, loyalty to be challenged and love. This is a must read book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In this story we meet up with Sister Coira again and learn more about her and how she came to be at the Abbey. We also meet up again with Creag MacKinnon who has suffered a bad injury and is at the Abby to seek help to recover. Here Coira and Creag start to form a bond and as he heals there are tough decisions to be made.
The story is well written with strong characters, great detail about surroundings. The story is full of surprises, challenges, loyalty to be challenged and love. This is a must read book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 2, 2020
If you love historical romance but a. don't want to get too bogged down in the details of war but want just enough action and description to take you there, and b. appreciate quality writing, the Sisters of Kilbride is the series for you.
Ms. Castel combines a unique premise--a convent run by an unconventional abbess who teaches her nuns how to protect themselves with weaponry--with a classic tale of Scottish clan rivalry. Her characters are beautifully developed, the settings lushly described, heart-wrenching romance, and a pace that keeps you up at night reading "just one more chapter."
I only recently discovered Jayne Castel, and I am so glad I did. I highly recommend her Sisters of Kilbride books, and look forward to beginning one of her other historical romance series.
Ms. Castel combines a unique premise--a convent run by an unconventional abbess who teaches her nuns how to protect themselves with weaponry--with a classic tale of Scottish clan rivalry. Her characters are beautifully developed, the settings lushly described, heart-wrenching romance, and a pace that keeps you up at night reading "just one more chapter."
I only recently discovered Jayne Castel, and I am so glad I did. I highly recommend her Sisters of Kilbride books, and look forward to beginning one of her other historical romance series.
May 27, 2020
The final battle between the brothers. Craeg has shown up at the abbey and Coira is healing them. He looks so much like his half-brother that at first Coira was scared. But only good things have been told about the outlaw and what he has done to help the people his brother has hurt. But while hiding him in the abbey, Father Cameron shows up, always ready to find fault with Abbess Shona. As soon as he is able they get Craeg out, but then his half-brother shows up, and now Coira is in danger from both Father Cameron and the MacKinnon. The abbey is surrounded by men. How can she escape? I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
May 27, 2020
Sister Coira, a healer, is called upon to heal Craeg The Bastard, the outlaw leader after a surprise attack from his brother Duncan MacKinnon. Duncan is an evil man who once abused Coira when she worked in the local brothel. She fled to become a nun and find peace. But now that peace is threatened as Duncan finds and threatens her again.
Craeg hates his brother and has been a thorn in his side for quite a while. Now he has decided to take the fight to Duncan and settle it once and for all.
But the plague has descended onto the Island and nothing will be quite the same when it has finished with them.
This was an action packed, by the seat of your pants, book – I loved it start to finish.
Craeg hates his brother and has been a thorn in his side for quite a while. Now he has decided to take the fight to Duncan and settle it once and for all.
But the plague has descended onto the Island and nothing will be quite the same when it has finished with them.
This was an action packed, by the seat of your pants, book – I loved it start to finish.
May 28, 2020
Wow, this is a wonderful book in the Sisters of Kilbride Series. Sister Coira has not always been the sweet nun she is today but once a time she worked as a whore where Duncan, Chief of MacKinnon, was a regular visitor and he was brutal to the girls. She ran away to the Abby never wanting another man to treat her the way he did. Duncan is a bitter man because he knows that his father's son birthed by a whore is a better man than he. Craeg MacKinnon vowed to fight Duncan to his dying breath because he and his friends beat him when they were all younger and left him to die and now Duncan is tracking him down. Loved this suspenseful story with a romance between Coira and Craeg.
June 10, 2020
Craig and coira
Well written and an exceptional story courage had and hard life from a young child into adulthood and Duncan MacKinnon was a mean spirited devil who disliked women in general craeg his half brother was the exact opposite when craeg becomes wounded he winds up at the Abby with sister coira as the healer who heals him and craeg falls a little in love with her for the fascinating women she is would have liked to seen an extended epilogue but as readers we always want a little more craeg and coira are two lost souls who come together with love and also get their HEA would highly recommend this author and series
Well written and an exceptional story courage had and hard life from a young child into adulthood and Duncan MacKinnon was a mean spirited devil who disliked women in general craeg his half brother was the exact opposite when craeg becomes wounded he winds up at the Abby with sister coira as the healer who heals him and craeg falls a little in love with her for the fascinating women she is would have liked to seen an extended epilogue but as readers we always want a little more craeg and coira are two lost souls who come together with love and also get their HEA would highly recommend this author and series
May 28, 2020
Oh, this is so good! It is nonstop action with heartstopping and heartbreaking moments. There is a self-righteous Abbot, a fearless Abbess and her sisters, Coira the healer, Craeg the outlaw and the horrid Duncan MacKinnon....all of whom will evoke an emotional response from the reader. It is impossible to read this book without getting swept up in all that is happening. Make sure you carve out enough time to read this, as you will not be able to put it down!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 4, 2021
Great Medieval story
This has been an interesting series. I was thrilled Coors got her own story. A very good story it was, too. Such great details of the Abbey of Kilbride and surrounding area helps put you in the story. The story felt Medieval, not just says it is. Between Court's struggles, Craeg's war with his half a brother, and the plague, the story held my attention throughout. Shona's story at the end was a wonderful added bonus. So glad she got her own story and a well deserved ending. I look forward to Drew's book.
This has been an interesting series. I was thrilled Coors got her own story. A very good story it was, too. Such great details of the Abbey of Kilbride and surrounding area helps put you in the story. The story felt Medieval, not just says it is. Between Court's struggles, Craeg's war with his half a brother, and the plague, the story held my attention throughout. Shona's story at the end was a wonderful added bonus. So glad she got her own story and a well deserved ending. I look forward to Drew's book.
May 28, 2020
The third book in The Sisters of Kilbride series a well written story with a very good storyline, I was not putting this book down until I had finished reading it. Sister Coira has a very sordid past she meets outlaw Craeg MacKinnon when he comes to the abbey when he is badly injured. What a story! I want to read the next book. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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