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Clan MacKinlay #2
Her Reluctant Highlander Husband
After nine lonely years as her father’s prisoner, Dorie McCurdy is forced to marry the new war chief of clan MacKinlay. Terrified and unwilling to speak, she imagines the worst of her handsome, imposing new husband.
Bryce MacKinlay Campbell’s wife and child were taken by illness years ago, and all he’s wanted since is to be alone. Unfortunately, he is ordered to marry the McCurdy laird’s daughter for an alliance between their clans. He’s appalled by the way his bride is treated by her family when she shows up looking like a ragged, homeless waif. Bryce can provide for her needs, and offer his name, but not his heart—that will never happen again.
In her husband’s strong arms, Dorie slowly emerges from her silence...and gradually the ice around Bryce’s heart begins to melt. But when she is unexpectedly offered an annulment, she must choose—stay with Bryce, who she’s fallen in love with but who never wanted her, or choose the unknown possibilities of a different future.
Bryce MacKinlay Campbell’s wife and child were taken by illness years ago, and all he’s wanted since is to be alone. Unfortunately, he is ordered to marry the McCurdy laird’s daughter for an alliance between their clans. He’s appalled by the way his bride is treated by her family when she shows up looking like a ragged, homeless waif. Bryce can provide for her needs, and offer his name, but not his heart—that will never happen again.
In her husband’s strong arms, Dorie slowly emerges from her silence...and gradually the ice around Bryce’s heart begins to melt. But when she is unexpectedly offered an annulment, she must choose—stay with Bryce, who she’s fallen in love with but who never wanted her, or choose the unknown possibilities of a different future.
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 30, 2020
122 people are currently reading
291 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
February 18, 2021
The hero was hard to like
I had a great review but it disappeared again on my Kindle. I hate that. I will finish it later but the hero was such a jerk. His wife and child died nine years before and he will never love again. He is forced to marry the poor abused heroine and of course he ignores her until she almost gets killed. Then they go at it like rabbits until he tells her he will never love her. She hies off to England with her real Father and the hero let's her go. It was heartbreaking. Seriously. He even signed annulment papers and I truly hated him for most of the second half of the book. He almost redeems himself. The heroine thought he did but I didn't really agree. Lol very nice epilogue and I loved the dog Rascal. He stole The show to speak. Dead love tropes are not my favorite because the wife part of me wants my husband to never remarry after I am gone or have relations with anyone else but I guess that is unrealistic. That's why I will have to take mine with me but that is a whole different story! Very good read and the first time I read this author and I plan to again.
I had a great review but it disappeared again on my Kindle. I hate that. I will finish it later but the hero was such a jerk. His wife and child died nine years before and he will never love again. He is forced to marry the poor abused heroine and of course he ignores her until she almost gets killed. Then they go at it like rabbits until he tells her he will never love her. She hies off to England with her real Father and the hero let's her go. It was heartbreaking. Seriously. He even signed annulment papers and I truly hated him for most of the second half of the book. He almost redeems himself. The heroine thought he did but I didn't really agree. Lol very nice epilogue and I loved the dog Rascal. He stole The show to speak. Dead love tropes are not my favorite because the wife part of me wants my husband to never remarry after I am gone or have relations with anyone else but I guess that is unrealistic. That's why I will have to take mine with me but that is a whole different story! Very good read and the first time I read this author and I plan to again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2021
Excellent! This book has everything you need for a great Highlander romance.
March 7, 2022
Overall: 3.5 rounded ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥🔥 if you’re generous
Humor: Yes, there is, though it’s not a light hearted book
(These are all personal preference on a scale of 1-5 (yours ratings may vary depending what gives you feels and how you prefer you sex scenes written, etc) except the Steam Scale which follows our chart from The Ton and Tartans Book Club )
Should I read in order?
This one is all right as a stand alone but I think you’ll get more enjoyment reading the series in order. The Clan lives and works together, so the characters from book 1 are here and referenced to a number of times
Basic plot:
A bargain is struck between the McCurdys and MacKinlays – marriage to Dorie McCurdy by Bryce Campbell will gain their clan access to an important seaport. Bryce lost his wife and child to illness ten years ago and is not interested in marrying again – he does it at the order of his laird but knows he will never love her.
Give this a try if you want:
- Medium steam – there are a handful of scenes but I found them on the short side (I listened to audio so it’s harder for me to tell length)
- Older hero/younger heroine
- Arranged marriage
- Highlanders!
- Disability featured – heroine has selective mutism due to trauma when she was 9 years old
- You have to be okay with some heavy content warnings (at end under spoiler warning)
- Hero nurses heroine back to health
- Stuart era Scotland – 1662 (There is some brief time of the book in London)
Ages:
- Heroine is 18, hero is 31
My thoughts:
I am conflicted about this book. It did tug on my heart a big, especially in the beginning with learning about Dorie’s background. But as it went on I got frustrated with a number of things. Ultimately I can’t say I loved the story and I don’t think ever reread this. But I do find it memorable so I decided to round my rating up.
Hero:
Bryce is drowning in grief. It still consumes his life after ten years – he has guilt over what happened to his family and has never found closure. He shuts himself off from everyone to keep the pain inside and this is a major plot point of the story. He is war chief of the clan that has adopted him in after his father basically gave him up after the death of his mother. Basically this guy desperately needs some therapy to work through his emotional trauma. I struggled with a lot of his behavior throughout the book – but I had guilt for feeling this way. The man had been through a lot, it just made it difficult to like him. Though I did love that he was willing to repeatedly look at his behavior and apologize soon after. He realizes when he hurts and makes amends. I don’t see this often in romance unless it’s a grand gesture at the end of the book (or nothing at all :P)
Heroine:
Dorie was an absolute delight to me. I loved her, so much. She had been through extreme abuse and seclusion. My heart really attached to her in the beginning and I was rooting for her to be able to heal and find happiness. She is repeatedly let down by Bryce but has a forgiving and understand heart. She helps heal him and eventually he helps heal her too, though in the end I just really wanted a bit more from Bryce.
The story had some things I enjoyed – a bit of humor, rich back story for the characters, supporting side characters that brought the story to life. Overall though I wanted more from the hero and got a bit bogged down with the non stop attempts on the heroine's life in the beginning, somewhat boring plot aspects (hero and heroine spent quite a bit of time apart, and I got to read about the heroine burning food, etc - and they also had a long separation towards the end of the story)
I think if you’ve liked Maya Banks you should definitely give this series a try. This was my first read of this author's work. I would try her again.
Here’s a few random parts that I wanted to note from the book
Content Warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥🔥 if you’re generous
Humor: Yes, there is, though it’s not a light hearted book
(These are all personal preference on a scale of 1-5 (yours ratings may vary depending what gives you feels and how you prefer you sex scenes written, etc) except the Steam Scale which follows our chart from The Ton and Tartans Book Club )
Should I read in order?
This one is all right as a stand alone but I think you’ll get more enjoyment reading the series in order. The Clan lives and works together, so the characters from book 1 are here and referenced to a number of times
Basic plot:
A bargain is struck between the McCurdys and MacKinlays – marriage to Dorie McCurdy by Bryce Campbell will gain their clan access to an important seaport. Bryce lost his wife and child to illness ten years ago and is not interested in marrying again – he does it at the order of his laird but knows he will never love her.
Give this a try if you want:
- Medium steam – there are a handful of scenes but I found them on the short side (I listened to audio so it’s harder for me to tell length)
- Older hero/younger heroine
- Arranged marriage
- Highlanders!
- Disability featured – heroine has selective mutism due to trauma when she was 9 years old
- You have to be okay with some heavy content warnings (at end under spoiler warning)
- Hero nurses heroine back to health
- Stuart era Scotland – 1662 (There is some brief time of the book in London)
Ages:
- Heroine is 18, hero is 31
My thoughts:
I am conflicted about this book. It did tug on my heart a big, especially in the beginning with learning about Dorie’s background. But as it went on I got frustrated with a number of things. Ultimately I can’t say I loved the story and I don’t think ever reread this. But I do find it memorable so I decided to round my rating up.
Hero:
Bryce is drowning in grief. It still consumes his life after ten years – he has guilt over what happened to his family and has never found closure. He shuts himself off from everyone to keep the pain inside and this is a major plot point of the story. He is war chief of the clan that has adopted him in after his father basically gave him up after the death of his mother. Basically this guy desperately needs some therapy to work through his emotional trauma. I struggled with a lot of his behavior throughout the book – but I had guilt for feeling this way. The man had been through a lot, it just made it difficult to like him. Though I did love that he was willing to repeatedly look at his behavior and apologize soon after. He realizes when he hurts and makes amends. I don’t see this often in romance unless it’s a grand gesture at the end of the book (or nothing at all :P)
Heroine:
Dorie was an absolute delight to me. I loved her, so much. She had been through extreme abuse and seclusion. My heart really attached to her in the beginning and I was rooting for her to be able to heal and find happiness. She is repeatedly let down by Bryce but has a forgiving and understand heart. She helps heal him and eventually he helps heal her too, though in the end I just really wanted a bit more from Bryce.
The story had some things I enjoyed – a bit of humor, rich back story for the characters, supporting side characters that brought the story to life. Overall though I wanted more from the hero and got a bit bogged down with the non stop attempts on the heroine's life in the beginning, somewhat boring plot aspects (hero and heroine spent quite a bit of time apart, and I got to read about the heroine burning food, etc - and they also had a long separation towards the end of the story)
I think if you’ve liked Maya Banks you should definitely give this series a try. This was my first read of this author's work. I would try her again.
Here’s a few random parts that I wanted to note from the book
Content Warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
November 6, 2020
It's okay.
Not my favourite troupe, Hero still in love with his dead wife.
Hero's first wife and child have died and he's not moved on.
Heroine is a virgin.
He's not a man-whore type.
I felt the lack of moving went on too long, to at least 85%.
HEA?
Epilogue.
ARC.
Not my favourite troupe, Hero still in love with his dead wife.
Hero's first wife and child have died and he's not moved on.
Heroine is a virgin.
He's not a man-whore type.
I felt the lack of moving went on too long, to at least 85%.
HEA?
Epilogue.
ARC.
December 7, 2020
3.5 stars
Hmmmm, I’m conflicted about this one. On one hand, I liked the characters and the story, but on the other hand, it moved slowly, with the main characters repeatedly going over the same territory in their heads, and to a certain extent, in their interactions with each other. When the story was moving along and into new territory, I enjoyed it quite a lot, but then we’d be back to either Bryce or Dorie blaming themselves for things beyond their control, or hiding very important—life or death!- information from each other. If you have patience to stick with it through the repetition, or if that doesn’t bother you, there is much to enjoy in this book. The main and secondary characters, setting, and plot are interesting and engaging. Dorie was horribly mistreated by her family, yet somehow is still caring, sweet, and kind, desperately seeking a family connection. It’s nearly impossible not to love and root for her, she deserves so much better than what she’s had. Bryce’s story is heartbreaking; he’s still not recovered from the loss of his wife and young daughter ten years ago, and is determined not to open himself up to devastating pain and loss again, but he struggles to maintain his distance from Dorie, especially when it becomes clear her life is in danger. While their love story was the primary focus, the battles and bad blood between their two clans added an element of danger, intensity, and tension to the story that made it nearly impossible for me to put down. This is the second book in a series, but it can be read as a standalone (I did). The characters were well-written, the plot was interesting. I think if the writing was just a little tighter, with less repetition, I would have enjoyed it even more and rated it a little higher, but I still recommend for historical romance/Scottish highlander fans.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Hmmmm, I’m conflicted about this one. On one hand, I liked the characters and the story, but on the other hand, it moved slowly, with the main characters repeatedly going over the same territory in their heads, and to a certain extent, in their interactions with each other. When the story was moving along and into new territory, I enjoyed it quite a lot, but then we’d be back to either Bryce or Dorie blaming themselves for things beyond their control, or hiding very important—life or death!- information from each other. If you have patience to stick with it through the repetition, or if that doesn’t bother you, there is much to enjoy in this book. The main and secondary characters, setting, and plot are interesting and engaging. Dorie was horribly mistreated by her family, yet somehow is still caring, sweet, and kind, desperately seeking a family connection. It’s nearly impossible not to love and root for her, she deserves so much better than what she’s had. Bryce’s story is heartbreaking; he’s still not recovered from the loss of his wife and young daughter ten years ago, and is determined not to open himself up to devastating pain and loss again, but he struggles to maintain his distance from Dorie, especially when it becomes clear her life is in danger. While their love story was the primary focus, the battles and bad blood between their two clans added an element of danger, intensity, and tension to the story that made it nearly impossible for me to put down. This is the second book in a series, but it can be read as a standalone (I did). The characters were well-written, the plot was interesting. I think if the writing was just a little tighter, with less repetition, I would have enjoyed it even more and rated it a little higher, but I still recommend for historical romance/Scottish highlander fans.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
November 19, 2020
Dorie McCurdy has lived for years as a prisoner, terrified and unwilling to speak. Bryce MacKinlay Campbell, war chief of Clan MacKinlay, is a widower shrouded in grief, clinging to pain and loneliness after the loss of his beloved wife and daughter. When Bryce is forced to marry Dorie for an alliance between their clans, he pledges to provide for her, but not live with her or love her. Dorie finds herself building a new life, and thawing her husband's frozen heart...but when family secrets are revealed, Bryce has to choose to love her or let her go.
This is the second book in the Clan MacKinlay series. It can be read as a stand alone. The first book is great, but this one is even better! I really enjoy the author's writing style. It's completely engaging and emotional. I'm not usually a book-crier, but this one definitely had me in tears.
Bryce is broken. He's content to live with the pain of his loss and doesn't have any intention of moving forward...until his laird pushes him. Dorie is equally damaged, living as a mute because of the consequences of her childhood words. Bryce and Dorie learn to respect and admire each other. Little by little, they build each other back up. I was rooting for them the whole time!
Tropes: Arranged Marriage, Feuding Families, Widower, Protector, Rags to Riches
Trigger warning: thoughts of suicide
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #HerReluctantHighlanderHusband #NetGalley
This is the second book in the Clan MacKinlay series. It can be read as a stand alone. The first book is great, but this one is even better! I really enjoy the author's writing style. It's completely engaging and emotional. I'm not usually a book-crier, but this one definitely had me in tears.
Bryce is broken. He's content to live with the pain of his loss and doesn't have any intention of moving forward...until his laird pushes him. Dorie is equally damaged, living as a mute because of the consequences of her childhood words. Bryce and Dorie learn to respect and admire each other. Little by little, they build each other back up. I was rooting for them the whole time!
Tropes: Arranged Marriage, Feuding Families, Widower, Protector, Rags to Riches
Trigger warning: thoughts of suicide
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #HerReluctantHighlanderHusband #NetGalley
November 30, 2020
I did feel sorry for Dorie McCurdy, she had such an horrendous life at home and now she was to be a bride to a man who didn’t want to marry again. Bryce MacKinley Campbell was the war chief for his clan. He had lost his beloved first wife and child and had build a wall around his heart to protect himself from further loss. Although Dorie and Bryce had an active physical relationship, Dorie longed for more. Unfortunately, Bryce was determined not to succumb to his feelings for Dorie. This was an entertaining read, it had some dangerous moments, a surprising event and a good amount of action. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 16, 2021
It’s not a bad book but I found the H to be an asshole through most of the book. Eventually the epiphany struck but it was too dragged out in my opinion.
October 23, 2021
ARC received for review
Almost as good as the previous book. I didn't shed tears, but my heart did hurt for Bryce and Dorie. They have both had a rough past, hers more so than his, but in the end true love wins. Loved seeing the previous couples and their help with this relationship. Can't wait to see who's next.
Almost as good as the previous book. I didn't shed tears, but my heart did hurt for Bryce and Dorie. They have both had a rough past, hers more so than his, but in the end true love wins. Loved seeing the previous couples and their help with this relationship. Can't wait to see who's next.
November 23, 2020
Her Reluctant Highlander Husband is a fantastic historical romance that follows two wounded people from enemy clans who find each other under the most unlikely circumstances. When Bryce, war chief of Clan MacKinlay, and Dorie, the daughter of an enemy clan leader, learn that they are to marry, neither is happy. However, Bryce, who lost his first wife and child years ago and has no desire to remarry, sees how maltreated Dorie seems and vows to marry and protect her. With secrets, lost love, and past abuse plaguing Dorie and Bryce, can this reluctant pair find love or will fear and the past keep them apart?
I love Dorie and Bryce! They are so different, yet they relate to each other well. They both struggle to open up, trust others, and examine their true feelings. They fear losing the people they love, and they both understand the pain and grief of loss and the guilt of surviving. I think that their connection grows deeper and stronger because of their shared experiences.
I also like how much Bryce and Dorie respect and admire each other. Bryce knows Dorie’s secret but waits for her to reveal it to the others. He also knows about the decade of abuse Dorie received at the hands of her father and brother, and he does what he can to help her. Dorie understands Bryce’s conflicting and complex feelings when it comes to love, marriage, and commitment, and she gives him the time and patience to heal. They are both self-sacrificing and determined to do what’s best for the other before thinking of their own wants and feelings.
There’s another character in the book that stole the show for me – Rascal. I loved Dorie’s loyal, protective, fearsome, and lovable dog! Rascal helped Dorie to heal and was Dorie’s first real friend. He helped her feel safe and loved, and she helped her and Bryce more times than I can count. Rascal is an endearing and heroic pup that I absolutely adored!
Her Reluctant Highlander Husband is a heart-warming and, at times, heartbreaking story that I very much enjoyed. It made me feel all of the feels, especially when it came to Bryce and Dorie’s pasts. He mourned his wife and daughter so much and felt such guilt about moving on. Dorie’s story of guilt, abuse, neglect, and subsequent PTSD is equally heart-wrenching. They are a couple that deserves a happy ending, which I so hoped for!
Finally, I have to comment on the poignant messages about understanding different kinds of love, learning to live again after loss, escaping and healing from abusive people, and supporting family. The author weaves powerful and thought-provoking messages throughout the story. Plus, the romance is positively swoon-worthy! Thanks so much to Netgalley, Entangled Publishing, and the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
I love Dorie and Bryce! They are so different, yet they relate to each other well. They both struggle to open up, trust others, and examine their true feelings. They fear losing the people they love, and they both understand the pain and grief of loss and the guilt of surviving. I think that their connection grows deeper and stronger because of their shared experiences.
I also like how much Bryce and Dorie respect and admire each other. Bryce knows Dorie’s secret but waits for her to reveal it to the others. He also knows about the decade of abuse Dorie received at the hands of her father and brother, and he does what he can to help her. Dorie understands Bryce’s conflicting and complex feelings when it comes to love, marriage, and commitment, and she gives him the time and patience to heal. They are both self-sacrificing and determined to do what’s best for the other before thinking of their own wants and feelings.
There’s another character in the book that stole the show for me – Rascal. I loved Dorie’s loyal, protective, fearsome, and lovable dog! Rascal helped Dorie to heal and was Dorie’s first real friend. He helped her feel safe and loved, and she helped her and Bryce more times than I can count. Rascal is an endearing and heroic pup that I absolutely adored!
Her Reluctant Highlander Husband is a heart-warming and, at times, heartbreaking story that I very much enjoyed. It made me feel all of the feels, especially when it came to Bryce and Dorie’s pasts. He mourned his wife and daughter so much and felt such guilt about moving on. Dorie’s story of guilt, abuse, neglect, and subsequent PTSD is equally heart-wrenching. They are a couple that deserves a happy ending, which I so hoped for!
Finally, I have to comment on the poignant messages about understanding different kinds of love, learning to live again after loss, escaping and healing from abusive people, and supporting family. The author weaves powerful and thought-provoking messages throughout the story. Plus, the romance is positively swoon-worthy! Thanks so much to Netgalley, Entangled Publishing, and the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
November 16, 2020
Her Reluctant Highlander Husband is the second book in the Clan MacKinlay series. A lot of what I liked from the first book is found here: a marriage of convenience (family alliance), a fast-paced beginning that grabs you into the story, and an emotional read that has characters dealing with real loss and trauma but yet the book was never too angsty for me to take.
This book pairs Dorie, the abused daughter from the terrible clan McCurdy, with Bryce, the war chief of clan MacKinlay. Bryce had lost his first wife and child 9 years ago and says he cannot love again. He reluctantly agreed to the marriage as his duty but makes sure Dorie never expects more than protection and safety from him. After a time, and events forcing them together, they come to care for each other. Then they are offered a chance at annulment, and they each have to decide whether this forced marriage could be one of their own choosing.
I like that the men in this series are not two dimensional alpha types. The struggle Bryce faces reconciling his past with his future adds a lot of depth to his character. I liked the additional characters of Dorie's real father and stepmother. Dorie herself was a great heroine though she made some really bad choices at times. But I do see how the additional drama helped move the plot along.
While I didn't like this one quite as much as the first book, I really appreciate the entertainment value. It's fast paced, and full of drama and love. If you're looking for a fun and emotional Highlander book, this series fits the bill.
This book pairs Dorie, the abused daughter from the terrible clan McCurdy, with Bryce, the war chief of clan MacKinlay. Bryce had lost his first wife and child 9 years ago and says he cannot love again. He reluctantly agreed to the marriage as his duty but makes sure Dorie never expects more than protection and safety from him. After a time, and events forcing them together, they come to care for each other. Then they are offered a chance at annulment, and they each have to decide whether this forced marriage could be one of their own choosing.
I like that the men in this series are not two dimensional alpha types. The struggle Bryce faces reconciling his past with his future adds a lot of depth to his character. I liked the additional characters of Dorie's real father and stepmother. Dorie herself was a great heroine though she made some really bad choices at times. But I do see how the additional drama helped move the plot along.
While I didn't like this one quite as much as the first book, I really appreciate the entertainment value. It's fast paced, and full of drama and love. If you're looking for a fun and emotional Highlander book, this series fits the bill.
November 26, 2020
After nine lonely years locked in her room as her father’s prisoner, Dorie McCurdy is forced to marry the new war chief of clan MacKinlay. Terrified and unwilling to speak, she imagines the worst of her handsome, imposing new husband. Bryce MacKinlay Campbell’s wife Maggie and child were taken by illness years ago, and all he’s wanted since is to be alone. Unfortunately, he is ordered to marry the McCurdy laird’s daughter for an alliance between their clans. He’s appalled by the way his bride is treated by her family when she shows up looking like a ragged, homeless waif. Bryce can provide for her needs, and offer his name, but not his heart.
The second book in this enjoyable series, it could easily be read on its own, however we do catch up with the characters from the first book. My heart went out to Dorie for how she's suffered for almost a decade & I applauded her for how she wasn't bitter. Bryce was still grieving & full of guilt not wanting to move on. I loved the road to their HEA which wasn’t easy but it was an emotional,enjoyable Read & I was routing for them all the way through
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The second book in this enjoyable series, it could easily be read on its own, however we do catch up with the characters from the first book. My heart went out to Dorie for how she's suffered for almost a decade & I applauded her for how she wasn't bitter. Bryce was still grieving & full of guilt not wanting to move on. I loved the road to their HEA which wasn’t easy but it was an emotional,enjoyable Read & I was routing for them all the way through
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
December 1, 2020
Her Reluctant Highlander, byAllison B. Hanson. I found this historical romance novel a joy to read. Allison supplies her readers with action and betrayal that will have you shocked and perhaps angry. I liked the slow build up of the romance between Dorie and Bryce, but once Bryce was able to let down his walls, the passion and love that blossoms between to gets a little to hot for the castle. Alison did a great job of writing this romance story and I look forward to reading more from her. I am also pleased to give this book a awesome rating.
December 2, 2020
The accurate, well written synopsis says it all, folks. If it appeals to you, I think there is a verra good chance this author’s seamless writing will bring this Scottish relationship angst romantic tale to life for you, as it did for me. I stayed fully engaged and was thankful when tragic past, heart hardened Bryce, the hero, finally admitted and allowed himself permission to love again. You’ll have to be patient though, because this stubborn, reluctant, afraid to love, brawny lad makes the heroine and us wait a verra long time indeed.
It’s amazing Dorie, the heroine, is still standing. This just wants to be loved fully and completely heroine has been through the wringer. Living under what you could definitely call life’s rock bottom circumstances, this resilient lass’s future had only one way to go and that was up. She was quick to be genuinely grateful and happy with the littlest things granted her. I loved the rags to riches aspect that was woven in for her. Her heart, however, demanded an unconditional, priceless, full surrender type love she knew she not only needed but deserved.
Again, you’ll have to be patient with this stubborn, knocks his own head against the wall, knucklehead hero. It may not be romance safe for those who don’t abide a hero holding on so tightly to a deceased love. At least you are clearly warned in the synopsis. I don’t usually travel that road myself, but this author’s writing made it worth it. My only regret is I wish Bryce would have had to work harder, longer, grovel more to secure their HEA at the end. Here’s hoping this review has been helpful in some way, so you can decide for yourself if this book is a good fit for you.
Romance Safety Gang:
Title: Her Reluctant Highlander Husband, Series: Clan MacKinlay (Book 2), Author: Allison B. Hanson, Pages: 400, pub date: 11/20/20, widow hero very reluctant to love again, deeply in love with dead wife, some violence, get to know each other first, very steamy scenes, pushing away, relationship angst read, celibate awhile hero, virgin heroine.
Book 1 - Her Accidental Highlander Husband
Book 2 - Her Reluctant Highlander Husband
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review. There is no affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author, publisher, NetGalley, or any PR firm.)
It’s amazing Dorie, the heroine, is still standing. This just wants to be loved fully and completely heroine has been through the wringer. Living under what you could definitely call life’s rock bottom circumstances, this resilient lass’s future had only one way to go and that was up. She was quick to be genuinely grateful and happy with the littlest things granted her. I loved the rags to riches aspect that was woven in for her. Her heart, however, demanded an unconditional, priceless, full surrender type love she knew she not only needed but deserved.
Again, you’ll have to be patient with this stubborn, knocks his own head against the wall, knucklehead hero. It may not be romance safe for those who don’t abide a hero holding on so tightly to a deceased love. At least you are clearly warned in the synopsis. I don’t usually travel that road myself, but this author’s writing made it worth it. My only regret is I wish Bryce would have had to work harder, longer, grovel more to secure their HEA at the end. Here’s hoping this review has been helpful in some way, so you can decide for yourself if this book is a good fit for you.
Romance Safety Gang:
Title: Her Reluctant Highlander Husband, Series: Clan MacKinlay (Book 2), Author: Allison B. Hanson, Pages: 400, pub date: 11/20/20, widow hero very reluctant to love again, deeply in love with dead wife, some violence, get to know each other first, very steamy scenes, pushing away, relationship angst read, celibate awhile hero, virgin heroine.
Book 1 - Her Accidental Highlander Husband
Book 2 - Her Reluctant Highlander Husband
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review. There is no affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author, publisher, NetGalley, or any PR firm.)
November 20, 2020
I received a free copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Bryce Mackinlay Campbell is the war chief of Clan Mackinlay. He lost his wife and daughter ten years ago. And the only thing he can think about is to be reunited with them.
But the laird of the clan who is is cousin, too, has another plans for Bryce. He must get married.
Dorie McCurdy is not happy about the wedding either. But she knows that her life will be better with Bryce. Little by little she falls in love with Bryce. But he has told her that he will never be ablo to love her back. Is that enough for Dorie?
Will they be happy together? Will Bryce learn to love Dorie?
I liked this book. It easy to read. And I loved how Bryce changes throughout the book.
Bryce Mackinlay Campbell is the war chief of Clan Mackinlay. He lost his wife and daughter ten years ago. And the only thing he can think about is to be reunited with them.
But the laird of the clan who is is cousin, too, has another plans for Bryce. He must get married.
Dorie McCurdy is not happy about the wedding either. But she knows that her life will be better with Bryce. Little by little she falls in love with Bryce. But he has told her that he will never be ablo to love her back. Is that enough for Dorie?
Will they be happy together? Will Bryce learn to love Dorie?
I liked this book. It easy to read. And I loved how Bryce changes throughout the book.
November 15, 2020
This was cute! Bryce and Dorie's backstories were touching and heartwarming. Their journey was nothing short of charming. I really enjoyed the premise and the pacing kept my attention. Bryce was chivalrous and a good man though not without his flaws. And Dorie's sweet spirit was adorable even though she was naive at times. It hit a bit of a wall for me around the 50% mark where the plot seemed to slow down, but overall a very satisfying read.
August 24, 2024
The book presents a classic trope: a forced marriage between two unwilling individuals. The initial setup, with both the hero and heroine resisting the arrangement, is executed well, creating a compelling atmosphere filled with conflict and angst. The characters' internal struggles and external pressures are relatable, making their journey engaging for readers.
However, once the hero begins to fall for the heroine, the narrative loses some of its momentum. While the transition is a natural progression, the lack of new challenges and obstacles after this point can make the story feel flat. To improve the overall experience, the author could have introduced additional conflicts, explored the characters' emotional depths further, and maintained a balance between romance and tension.
Despite these shortcomings, the book still offers a satisfying read due to its strong start and well-developed characters. If the author had managed to maintain the momentum and develop the story further, it could have been a truly memorable novel.
However, once the hero begins to fall for the heroine, the narrative loses some of its momentum. While the transition is a natural progression, the lack of new challenges and obstacles after this point can make the story feel flat. To improve the overall experience, the author could have introduced additional conflicts, explored the characters' emotional depths further, and maintained a balance between romance and tension.
Despite these shortcomings, the book still offers a satisfying read due to its strong start and well-developed characters. If the author had managed to maintain the momentum and develop the story further, it could have been a truly memorable novel.
November 9, 2020
This book was given to me as an arc from netgalley in return for my honest review. This is my voluntary review. My thoughts and opinions.
4.5 stars rounded up to 5
Trope: second chance at love
If you know me, you know I love me a good historical Scottish romance. It's been awhile since I read a good one too. I gave this book a high rating not because I'm partial to liking Scottish Romance but in truth, I thought this book was wonderful and beautifully written. There will also be alot left out, as this is a 400 page book. You'll have to read this lovely book to get all the full details. But bear with me, I'll do my best to explain. Here it goes.
The character background and character build up was so intense. Because of that it went into great emotional depths. 32% into the book I cried for the first time. It was the first love scene. I only expected bliss. But this is what I felt and got. There was so much anguish yet it was balanced out by happiness. I felt the hurt, quilt, and the shame that radiated from the hero. I also the pain the heroine suffered through as a child, and the light that finally sheds through giving her hope, and lastly happiness.
Bryce was married before, and was deeply in love with Maggie. She was his first love, and to him she was also the last. His late wife and child died of a fever while he was called away on duty. On his return he found them both dead in the home they shared. From that day forward, He became a broken person. He lived with quilt, and pain. He was alive and but dead. Yes, his lungs were breathing air, but his heart was long gone.
Dorie was not always mute. But when her mother died, she chose to never speak again. In her mind, she thought that the last words she'd spoken were the words that condemned her mother to her early grave. To keep safe, she lost her voice. For nine years she was a mute, and out of all those years she was also kept prisoner under lock and key.
The two clans needed to form alliance. Therefore the clans arranged the marriage between Bryce war chief of MacKinlay who would be expected to marry Dorie, daughter to the laird of the McCurdy. Bryce did not ever want to marry again. It didn't set right with him, Knowing he could never love another woman. His heart was already taken. To love another would be considered disrespect to his dead wife Maggie. As for Dorie, she had no idea what was going on until the last moments. As she was kept prisoner and treated morbidly bad. To her this was her chance to finally escape. Anything would be better than being locked away. When they first lay eyes on eachother he was appalled. To be a laird's daughter she was in rags, looked malnourished, had no shoes, was mute, and was physically abused right in front of his eyes. He being who was put a immediate stop to it. For her she thought he was handsome.
Although Bryce did not want to marry he had a duty and he would carry it out. He would provide for Dorie. He would give her home, food, and money. But that was it. She would be on her own. It would be a marriage only through name.
Little did he know he would fall truly and madly in love. He had to fight with his own inner demons just to be with her, and to be free of Maggie. His inner demons were consisted of quilt, and forbiddance of loving another woman. He had to fight himself to get over the death of Maggie and his child. In his heart he felt if he was there, he could've saved them both. He had to forgive himself before he could love again. Dorie finally separated from him to give him peace and to relieve him of his duty. That was when he finally realized he wanted her. Not only did he wanted her, he needed, and he loved her.
Dorie learns to trust again. She starts to speak again not to humans but to her beloved dog. Although Bryce never wanted to marry her, he treats her extremely well with all due respect. He also tells her, I will do my best to keep you happy as I am now your husband but I could never love you. I give you no reason to ever love me in return. It doesn't bother her at first because they are nothing but mere strangers. As time passes by, feelings starts to form. He knows that she could talk but doesn't push her until they finally make love. He tells her you have to tell me in words that you want me for me to make love to you. That's when she speaks for the first time to human in nine years. She begins to talk to him but only with him .She begins to trust, wait for him, and her love begins to bloom. At first she thinks that her love would be enough for the both of them. Seeing all the beautiful couples around her, and seeing how it is to have their love returned makes a huge impact on her heart. She decides to give him his freedom. She will not settle, and she felt she deserved to be loved in return. So she leaves....
From there on out they both fight for their love, especially him. Their happily after was hard won considering everything they've ever been through. I was so happy for them.
This was my first book by this author, and I will continue to read her. I only hope the rest are as good as this one.
4.5 stars rounded up to 5
Trope: second chance at love
If you know me, you know I love me a good historical Scottish romance. It's been awhile since I read a good one too. I gave this book a high rating not because I'm partial to liking Scottish Romance but in truth, I thought this book was wonderful and beautifully written. There will also be alot left out, as this is a 400 page book. You'll have to read this lovely book to get all the full details. But bear with me, I'll do my best to explain. Here it goes.
The character background and character build up was so intense. Because of that it went into great emotional depths. 32% into the book I cried for the first time. It was the first love scene. I only expected bliss. But this is what I felt and got. There was so much anguish yet it was balanced out by happiness. I felt the hurt, quilt, and the shame that radiated from the hero. I also the pain the heroine suffered through as a child, and the light that finally sheds through giving her hope, and lastly happiness.
Bryce was married before, and was deeply in love with Maggie. She was his first love, and to him she was also the last. His late wife and child died of a fever while he was called away on duty. On his return he found them both dead in the home they shared. From that day forward, He became a broken person. He lived with quilt, and pain. He was alive and but dead. Yes, his lungs were breathing air, but his heart was long gone.
Dorie was not always mute. But when her mother died, she chose to never speak again. In her mind, she thought that the last words she'd spoken were the words that condemned her mother to her early grave. To keep safe, she lost her voice. For nine years she was a mute, and out of all those years she was also kept prisoner under lock and key.
The two clans needed to form alliance. Therefore the clans arranged the marriage between Bryce war chief of MacKinlay who would be expected to marry Dorie, daughter to the laird of the McCurdy. Bryce did not ever want to marry again. It didn't set right with him, Knowing he could never love another woman. His heart was already taken. To love another would be considered disrespect to his dead wife Maggie. As for Dorie, she had no idea what was going on until the last moments. As she was kept prisoner and treated morbidly bad. To her this was her chance to finally escape. Anything would be better than being locked away. When they first lay eyes on eachother he was appalled. To be a laird's daughter she was in rags, looked malnourished, had no shoes, was mute, and was physically abused right in front of his eyes. He being who was put a immediate stop to it. For her she thought he was handsome.
Although Bryce did not want to marry he had a duty and he would carry it out. He would provide for Dorie. He would give her home, food, and money. But that was it. She would be on her own. It would be a marriage only through name.
Little did he know he would fall truly and madly in love. He had to fight with his own inner demons just to be with her, and to be free of Maggie. His inner demons were consisted of quilt, and forbiddance of loving another woman. He had to fight himself to get over the death of Maggie and his child. In his heart he felt if he was there, he could've saved them both. He had to forgive himself before he could love again. Dorie finally separated from him to give him peace and to relieve him of his duty. That was when he finally realized he wanted her. Not only did he wanted her, he needed, and he loved her.
Dorie learns to trust again. She starts to speak again not to humans but to her beloved dog. Although Bryce never wanted to marry her, he treats her extremely well with all due respect. He also tells her, I will do my best to keep you happy as I am now your husband but I could never love you. I give you no reason to ever love me in return. It doesn't bother her at first because they are nothing but mere strangers. As time passes by, feelings starts to form. He knows that she could talk but doesn't push her until they finally make love. He tells her you have to tell me in words that you want me for me to make love to you. That's when she speaks for the first time to human in nine years. She begins to talk to him but only with him .She begins to trust, wait for him, and her love begins to bloom. At first she thinks that her love would be enough for the both of them. Seeing all the beautiful couples around her, and seeing how it is to have their love returned makes a huge impact on her heart. She decides to give him his freedom. She will not settle, and she felt she deserved to be loved in return. So she leaves....
From there on out they both fight for their love, especially him. Their happily after was hard won considering everything they've ever been through. I was so happy for them.
This was my first book by this author, and I will continue to read her. I only hope the rest are as good as this one.
May 11, 2024
I love the stories of Bryce and Dorie together, and their separate lives before. Allison did a fantastic job again! Can't wait to read book #3.
August 10, 2024
Not bad.
December 2, 2020
Her Reluctant Highlander Husband by Allison B. Hanson
A Clan MacKinley Novel #3
An arranged marriage sees widow Bryce MacKinley Campbell wed to Dorrie McCurdy. She arrives barefoot and in rags and he drags his feet to the altar. It is not a bright beginning for the two and it takes a LONG time for them to find their way to an eventual HEA. I think I preferred book one in the series but enjoyed this one, too. If you are willing to suspend belief and think of this as a fairy tale then it works.
What I liked:
* Dorrie: Even after 9 years in what was essentially solitary confinement, she seemed resilient. I might have questioned it, but I did admire her.
* Bryce: warrior, widow, mired in grief or regret or perhaps guilt. Living but not alive. He had a lot of growing to do.
* The slow coming together of the couple, although it wore after awhile
* Rascal: a brave, friendly, courageous rescue dog
* Dorrie’s biological father’s family – was on the fence for awhile about Dorien, her father
* The location and MacKinley tribe
* That the McCurdy’s received their just desserts
* That there was finally a happy ending
* Wondering who might star in book three of the series…Liam or Rory or someone else
What I didn’t like:
* The McCurdy’s
* That it took so long for Bryce to “wake up”
* That I had more trouble investing in this couple – not sure why – I wanted them to figure it out but I really wanted to sit them down, especially Bryce, and tell them to get one with things and see what was before them.
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled-Amara for the ARC – This is my honest review.
3-4 Stars
A Clan MacKinley Novel #3
An arranged marriage sees widow Bryce MacKinley Campbell wed to Dorrie McCurdy. She arrives barefoot and in rags and he drags his feet to the altar. It is not a bright beginning for the two and it takes a LONG time for them to find their way to an eventual HEA. I think I preferred book one in the series but enjoyed this one, too. If you are willing to suspend belief and think of this as a fairy tale then it works.
What I liked:
* Dorrie: Even after 9 years in what was essentially solitary confinement, she seemed resilient. I might have questioned it, but I did admire her.
* Bryce: warrior, widow, mired in grief or regret or perhaps guilt. Living but not alive. He had a lot of growing to do.
* The slow coming together of the couple, although it wore after awhile
* Rascal: a brave, friendly, courageous rescue dog
* Dorrie’s biological father’s family – was on the fence for awhile about Dorien, her father
* The location and MacKinley tribe
* That the McCurdy’s received their just desserts
* That there was finally a happy ending
* Wondering who might star in book three of the series…Liam or Rory or someone else
What I didn’t like:
* The McCurdy’s
* That it took so long for Bryce to “wake up”
* That I had more trouble investing in this couple – not sure why – I wanted them to figure it out but I really wanted to sit them down, especially Bryce, and tell them to get one with things and see what was before them.
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled-Amara for the ARC – This is my honest review.
3-4 Stars
December 28, 2020
A touching read that shows the depth of loss and pain but also how love can help you heal. Dorie and Bryce have bother suffered loss and pain so they are hesitant to trust again. However, when Bryce realizes that Dorie's life is in danger he must keep her close. As they are forced together they soon think about trusting again but is it worth it?
Dorie is strong women for all she has been through and she remains kind. Bryce is hurt but also able to show Dorie compassion. The secondary characters really enhance the story and make is such a good read.
Dorie is strong women for all she has been through and she remains kind. Bryce is hurt but also able to show Dorie compassion. The secondary characters really enhance the story and make is such a good read.
December 2, 2020
Tags: second chances, arranged marriage
TW: abuse
For fans of whump, the heroine is put through a lot by her family. Almost too much? And yet, the only true HEA she gets is in the epilogue. Most of the story deals with how the hero still mourns his first wife and child. Not really a fan of the dead wife trope since it’s hard to “compete” with the memory of a ghost when the surviving partner is not ready to move on.
TW: abuse
For fans of whump, the heroine is put through a lot by her family. Almost too much? And yet, the only true HEA she gets is in the epilogue. Most of the story deals with how the hero still mourns his first wife and child. Not really a fan of the dead wife trope since it’s hard to “compete” with the memory of a ghost when the surviving partner is not ready to move on.
December 14, 2020
This was a fun, steamy read about two people overcoming their fears to find happiness and love together. I felt there was a minor plot hole, but overall I enjoyed revisiting Clan MacKinlay, with a broody hero and an interesting heroine. My thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for giving me a copy in exchange for my honest review.
May 17, 2022
I went into this book slightly skeptical! The whole late wife and child is something I usually try to avoid in books, but this really tore at my heart! The whole book was beautiful and sweet and I loved seeing Dorie do what she thought was right for her and the growth that Bryce went through.
Our hero, Bryce, lost his wife and child to illness while he was away and it is a guilt he has lived with for ten years. This loss affects him the whole book. In the beginning he considers suicide when his cousin promises him in marriage to a young girl. He never wanted to remarry again but he was kind to Dorie from the moment he saw her. He was kind of crappy to her at first, leaving her in the cottage alone but when it proved too dangerous he got over himself and shared a bed with her. His grief was understandable and absolutely heartbreaking. Although never having gone through this experience myself, I could see why he was so tore up letting himself feel for Dorie because he felt like he would be betraying his first wife. While this is a conflict pretty much the whole book for him, I felt like it added to the emotional depth and conflict for the characters.
Dorie, our heroine, has selective mutism due to a childhood trauma. At first I wasn’t sure how the relationship would grow if she wouldn’t speak, but it was sweet to see them communicate through hand gestures and eventually he earned her trust enough for her to speak. She was very strong and kind and I like that she knew her self worth and did what she thought was best for her. It was so saddening to see Bryce’s distance through her eyes and how it affected her. She was so understanding of his inner turmoil and I think the fact that she was so resilient really pushed the relationship.
The relationship itself was rife with sadness and inner turmoil. Knowing each of the couple really helped me to be sympathetic to both. I love that she showed that she was there for him. I liked that he opened up to her bit by bit willing to give her what he could, even if he didn’t think he could love her. I loved how happy they were together, all the small touches he gave her and the thought he put into her feelings.
It was so obvious he loved her. I wish the both could’ve seen in, there was a scene where she asked for an annulment, and if he hadn’t loved her he would’ve said okay and been on his merry way, but for a while he just kept on bringing up stupid reasons for her to stay. He wasn’t willing to admit that he loved her but he also wasn't so ready to let her go as she thought he would be. All she wanted to hear was he wanted her to stay and in his own way he did tell her. His grasps at silly but valid reasons for her to stay were his way of begging her to say. It was heartbreaking to know he didn’t want her to go but didn’t have the right words to say it.
Overall, this book was so good and full of emotion, high and low. Highly recommend and I’ll definitely be reading the other books in this trilogy!
Safety: Ow drama- H is hung up on his late wife, this causes him to be distant sometimes physically and emotionally to the h and he swears he will never be able to love again, this causes some separation. OM drama- not really but the h leaves with her father to find someone who will love her in London but you don’t see interaction with other men and she isn’t interested in anyone else.
Our hero, Bryce, lost his wife and child to illness while he was away and it is a guilt he has lived with for ten years. This loss affects him the whole book. In the beginning he considers suicide when his cousin promises him in marriage to a young girl. He never wanted to remarry again but he was kind to Dorie from the moment he saw her. He was kind of crappy to her at first, leaving her in the cottage alone but when it proved too dangerous he got over himself and shared a bed with her. His grief was understandable and absolutely heartbreaking. Although never having gone through this experience myself, I could see why he was so tore up letting himself feel for Dorie because he felt like he would be betraying his first wife. While this is a conflict pretty much the whole book for him, I felt like it added to the emotional depth and conflict for the characters.
Dorie, our heroine, has selective mutism due to a childhood trauma. At first I wasn’t sure how the relationship would grow if she wouldn’t speak, but it was sweet to see them communicate through hand gestures and eventually he earned her trust enough for her to speak. She was very strong and kind and I like that she knew her self worth and did what she thought was best for her. It was so saddening to see Bryce’s distance through her eyes and how it affected her. She was so understanding of his inner turmoil and I think the fact that she was so resilient really pushed the relationship.
The relationship itself was rife with sadness and inner turmoil. Knowing each of the couple really helped me to be sympathetic to both. I love that she showed that she was there for him. I liked that he opened up to her bit by bit willing to give her what he could, even if he didn’t think he could love her. I loved how happy they were together, all the small touches he gave her and the thought he put into her feelings.
It was so obvious he loved her. I wish the both could’ve seen in, there was a scene where she asked for an annulment, and if he hadn’t loved her he would’ve said okay and been on his merry way, but for a while he just kept on bringing up stupid reasons for her to stay. He wasn’t willing to admit that he loved her but he also wasn't so ready to let her go as she thought he would be. All she wanted to hear was he wanted her to stay and in his own way he did tell her. His grasps at silly but valid reasons for her to stay were his way of begging her to say. It was heartbreaking to know he didn’t want her to go but didn’t have the right words to say it.
Overall, this book was so good and full of emotion, high and low. Highly recommend and I’ll definitely be reading the other books in this trilogy!
Safety: Ow drama- H is hung up on his late wife, this causes him to be distant sometimes physically and emotionally to the h and he swears he will never be able to love again, this causes some separation. OM drama- not really but the h leaves with her father to find someone who will love her in London but you don’t see interaction with other men and she isn’t interested in anyone else.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 20, 2023
I can’t stand dead wife books. But I was actually looking forward to this one. Maybe because I enjoyed the first book so much, I figured this one would be just as good.
It was good. The author really does a great job of bringing the characters to life. But I didn’t connect with it like I did the first book because of the dreaded dead wife storyline. This im is why I like to read about J/P Alpha Heroes. I kind of hate reading about a Hero who is willing to give up the heroine at 75% of the way through the book because of his love and loyalty to his dead wife. And this theme was really reinforced over and over again. All the men who tried to move on from their first loves but couldn’t quite recapture that spark that their first love inspired.
It left me feeling bad for Dory because I felt like she was always going to be living in the shadow of Bryce’s childhood sweetheart. Even though he realized he loves her too in a different way… his first wife still took up a lot of real estate in his thoughts and him realizing he actually DOES love Dory (only after she had decided to go back and settle for what she could get from him. 🙄) with only an hour left in a 9 hour and 30 minute book just wasn’t enough for me. I spent 8.5 hours hearing over and over that Bryce could never love again. I was over hearing about his love for Maggie hours before that.
This is why I avoid dead wife books.
It was good. The author really does a great job of bringing the characters to life. But I didn’t connect with it like I did the first book because of the dreaded dead wife storyline. This im is why I like to read about J/P Alpha Heroes. I kind of hate reading about a Hero who is willing to give up the heroine at 75% of the way through the book because of his love and loyalty to his dead wife. And this theme was really reinforced over and over again. All the men who tried to move on from their first loves but couldn’t quite recapture that spark that their first love inspired.
It left me feeling bad for Dory because I felt like she was always going to be living in the shadow of Bryce’s childhood sweetheart. Even though he realized he loves her too in a different way… his first wife still took up a lot of real estate in his thoughts and him realizing he actually DOES love Dory (only after she had decided to go back and settle for what she could get from him. 🙄) with only an hour left in a 9 hour and 30 minute book just wasn’t enough for me. I spent 8.5 hours hearing over and over that Bryce could never love again. I was over hearing about his love for Maggie hours before that.
This is why I avoid dead wife books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 30, 2020
ARC received from Entangled through Netgalley. Voluntarily reviewing and all opinions are objective and my own.
Even better than the first book! These two are the definition of historical angst!
While Byrce agrees to the marriage, he is reluctant to her. He vows to treat her well and provide for her, but doesn’t plan on living with her whatsoever, or even treating her as a wife should be treated. They do end up in the same room, and slowly become friends. I typically don’t go for the whole widow thing in novels, but I think Byrce’s hesitation was really well done. Frustrating at times for sure, but good overall, and fun to read.
Dorie is the epitome of trauma. After her mother dies, she vows to never speak again. This vow carries forward to her marriage and the first half of it is done in silence. She has had a horrible life, but I do give her props for how she handles the whole marriage.
As expected, they do grow close, but the angst doesn’t stop there! No, no. In fact, this book had me in tears at one point. My stomach was in knots!
Such a good read and I can’t wait for more. I assume the next one will be about the third war chief. Poor Lachlan; he keeps having to pick new ones.
Even better than the first book! These two are the definition of historical angst!
While Byrce agrees to the marriage, he is reluctant to her. He vows to treat her well and provide for her, but doesn’t plan on living with her whatsoever, or even treating her as a wife should be treated. They do end up in the same room, and slowly become friends. I typically don’t go for the whole widow thing in novels, but I think Byrce’s hesitation was really well done. Frustrating at times for sure, but good overall, and fun to read.
Dorie is the epitome of trauma. After her mother dies, she vows to never speak again. This vow carries forward to her marriage and the first half of it is done in silence. She has had a horrible life, but I do give her props for how she handles the whole marriage.
As expected, they do grow close, but the angst doesn’t stop there! No, no. In fact, this book had me in tears at one point. My stomach was in knots!
Such a good read and I can’t wait for more. I assume the next one will be about the third war chief. Poor Lachlan; he keeps having to pick new ones.
December 2, 2020
Outstanding Highlander romance!
This enthralling book was a beautiful character study, an intense romance, and a tribute to the best examples of valor and virtue all wrapped up in a sweet story that was pure joy to read.
Dorie is quite literally rescued from hell by her marriage to the stalwart Bryce, a man who has vowed never to love again after losing his wife and daughter years before. But he's an honorable man, and he will do his duty to his clan and to his new wife.
The writing was so beautiful as the author brought us right into the hearts of her characters. Bryce is content to keep Dorie at arm's length emotionally, until her courage to live for more challenges him to confront the demons that still haunt him so he can move on and embrace a new future.
The complex storyline skillfully wove in life-threatening attacks, battles, clan politics, and multi-generational history that propelled the story to a beautifully triumphant HEA. I loved every bit of it, and I highly recommend this book and author for anyone who loves historical Scottish Highlander romances. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
This enthralling book was a beautiful character study, an intense romance, and a tribute to the best examples of valor and virtue all wrapped up in a sweet story that was pure joy to read.
Dorie is quite literally rescued from hell by her marriage to the stalwart Bryce, a man who has vowed never to love again after losing his wife and daughter years before. But he's an honorable man, and he will do his duty to his clan and to his new wife.
The writing was so beautiful as the author brought us right into the hearts of her characters. Bryce is content to keep Dorie at arm's length emotionally, until her courage to live for more challenges him to confront the demons that still haunt him so he can move on and embrace a new future.
The complex storyline skillfully wove in life-threatening attacks, battles, clan politics, and multi-generational history that propelled the story to a beautifully triumphant HEA. I loved every bit of it, and I highly recommend this book and author for anyone who loves historical Scottish Highlander romances. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
October 14, 2021
Grief vs. Love.
Bryce is the war chief of clan MacKinlay. He has been grieving the loss of his wife and daughter for 9 years and has blocked his heart from ever loving again. Lachlan, the laird has set an arranged marriage for Bryce without his knowledge and he is forced, by honor and duty to wed Dorie, the daughter of the McCurdy chief. When she arrives at the wedding shoeless and dressed in clothes that don’t fit her and being abused by her brother, Bryce feels he needs to protect her. He soon finds out she does not speak. Once they are wed he still has no intention of living as husband and wife. Marriage in name only. He sets her up in his cottage and he continues to stay in the castle until there are 2 attempts on her life. Then they begin to share his room at the castle and their tough journey begins. Most of the book I wanted to shake Bryce senseless but he is a good example of how grief can consume and immobilize us. He was lucky to have Dorie to save him.
Bryce is the war chief of clan MacKinlay. He has been grieving the loss of his wife and daughter for 9 years and has blocked his heart from ever loving again. Lachlan, the laird has set an arranged marriage for Bryce without his knowledge and he is forced, by honor and duty to wed Dorie, the daughter of the McCurdy chief. When she arrives at the wedding shoeless and dressed in clothes that don’t fit her and being abused by her brother, Bryce feels he needs to protect her. He soon finds out she does not speak. Once they are wed he still has no intention of living as husband and wife. Marriage in name only. He sets her up in his cottage and he continues to stay in the castle until there are 2 attempts on her life. Then they begin to share his room at the castle and their tough journey begins. Most of the book I wanted to shake Bryce senseless but he is a good example of how grief can consume and immobilize us. He was lucky to have Dorie to save him.
September 22, 2024
Bryce & Dory: triggers: domestic violence, arson, infidelity. Well this book was awesome. I wasn't expecting half of the things that happened in this book so I can say that the plot twists are twisting with this one. Bryce is a widow and the war chief to Lachlan and because Cam was accidentally handfasted in the previous book, that leaves Bryce to marry the McCurdy girl for the rights to the sea. Bryce is not having this at all but because his Laird said so, he does his duty. Dory is the daughter of the McCurdy Laird and has been offered on an arrangement that if she is married to a McKinley then the McKinley clan will have access to the the waters. But when they arrive the McKinley's notice how mistreated she is and that she is mute. The story goes through so much drama with the agreement and now someone trying to kill Dory and to top it all off, Bryce is going back and forth with both his guilt and his feelings for his new wife. It's a really good story. I enjoyed it.
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