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Carre #1
Любов извън закона
Той е неин враг – горд, непокорен и ослепително красив, но изпълва сърцето и с неописуем копнеж и желание. Елизабет би трябвало да се страхува от властния и обигран господар на Рейвънсби, който дръзко я похищава, за да откупи свободата на брат си. Но въпреки че са врагове, тя няма сили да се откаже от неговите ласки.
Тя е един божествен ангел, който разпалва неудържимата му страст. Джони Кари усеща болезнена нужда да я притежава, да открие тайните на тялото и и да я направи своя завинаги.
"Сюзън Джонсън съчетава пленителен сюжет, възпламеняващо привличане и непредвидим съспенс, използвайки борбата на Шотландия за независимост от Британската корона като фон за една наистина вдъхновяваща любовна история."
Publishers Weekly
Тя е един божествен ангел, който разпалва неудържимата му страст. Джони Кари усеща болезнена нужда да я притежава, да открие тайните на тялото и и да я направи своя завинаги.
"Сюзън Джонсън съчетава пленителен сюжет, възпламеняващо привличане и непредвидим съспенс, използвайки борбата на Шотландия за независимост от Британската корона като фон за една наистина вдъхновяваща любовна история."
Publishers Weekly
376 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 1993
35 people are currently reading
845 people want to read
About the author
Susan Johnson
256 books574 followersAnd it all began rather serendipitously. Long ago, as they say, in another time, when fast food hadn't reached our area and the only shopping was what the feed mill offered, I was reading a book that annoyed me .
My husband was lying beside me in bed, watching TV. Turning to him, I sort of petulantly said, "How the hell did this book get published?"
"If you think you're so smart," he replied, with one eye still on the TV, "why don't you write a book?"
So I did. And very badly.
I've since learned how to do, he said, she said, and a great variety of other adverb heavy, sometimes lengthy explanations of why my characters are saying what they're saying, along with finally coming to an understanding of what things like POV means. Point of View for you non-writers}.
Although, I still don't fully comprehend why it matters if you switch POV and I cavalierly disregard it as much as possible. So while my technical skills have hopefully improved, what hasn't changed is my great joy in writing. There's as much pleasure today in listening to my characters talk while I type as fast as I can, as there was the first time I put dialogue to paper--in long-hand, then, in my leather bound sketch-book.
My husband was lying beside me in bed, watching TV. Turning to him, I sort of petulantly said, "How the hell did this book get published?"
"If you think you're so smart," he replied, with one eye still on the TV, "why don't you write a book?"
So I did. And very badly.
I've since learned how to do, he said, she said, and a great variety of other adverb heavy, sometimes lengthy explanations of why my characters are saying what they're saying, along with finally coming to an understanding of what things like POV means. Point of View for you non-writers}.
Although, I still don't fully comprehend why it matters if you switch POV and I cavalierly disregard it as much as possible. So while my technical skills have hopefully improved, what hasn't changed is my great joy in writing. There's as much pleasure today in listening to my characters talk while I type as fast as I can, as there was the first time I put dialogue to paper--in long-hand, then, in my leather bound sketch-book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
August 15, 2017
★★★★★! Carre series, book 1 of 2. Johnnie Carre, Laird of Ravensby captures his enemy’s daughter, Elizabeth Graham for ransom, but letting her go will be his biggest battle yet!
UK EDITION SERIES INFO & REVIEW
Carre series
Book 1
Formats: Kindle & paperback in both US/UK
The Carre series follows two Scottish brothers during the struggle for independence from British rule starting with Johnnie Carre, Laird of Ravensby, year 1704.
Susan Johnson aka C.C. Gibbs has different publishers in the US and UK, hence the different titles and covers.
These are stand-alones, but most enjoyed if read in order:
Book 1: (Year 1704)
Outlaw (US) / Secrets & Sins (UK)
Book 2: (Year 1705)
To Please A Lady (US) / To Please A Lady (UK)
JOHNNIE CARRE, LAIRD OF RAVENSBY:
~30 years/Scottish/Laird/playboy/$$$$/black hair/blue eyes.
ELIZABETH GRAHAM:
~25 years/British/blond hair/green eyes.
Year 1704 were tumultuous times near the Scottish border. Johnnie Carre, Laird of Ravensby is a powerful border Lord and when his baby brother, Robbie is taken hostage by his English enemy, Lord Godfrey he devises a plan to capture and ransom his enemy’s daughter, Elizabeth Graham for his brother.
Sparks fly both in and outside the bedroom. But Johnnie Carre is rake and a key player in Scottish fight for independence against British rule. On opposite sides in a war, Johnnie and Elizabeth’s story is roller-coaster of history-in-the-making, sizzling sex, jealousy, angst, danger, suspense and an against-all-odds love.
Top-10 hero! Captivating and intriguing plot! Spellbinding storytelling! Interesting setting and era!
***
Hero rating: 5+ stars
Heroine rating: 3.5 stars
Sex scenes rating: 5 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 4.5 stars
Storyline concept rating: 4.5 stars
Storytelling skills rating: 5 stars
Story ending rating: 5 stars
******************************
Overall rating: 5 stars
Would I recommend this series: Yes.
Would I re-read this series: Yes.
Would I read future books by this author: Yes.
*In her earlier books Susan Johnson, a master historian, has been known for her abundance of facts and history. She has reference and note section providing further details. I have always found it both interesting and educational. But you don’t have to read in order to enjoy their story.
Be sure to join CCGibbsFANS here on GR for the latest news:
https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
(Public group for members 18 years and older)
March 16, 2020
★★★★★! Carre series, book 1 of 2. Johnnie Carre, Laird of Ravensby captures his enemy’s daughter, Elizabeth Graham for ransom, but letting her go will be his biggest battle yet!
US EDITION SERIES INFO & REVIEW
Carre series
Book 1
Formats: Kindle & paperback in both US/UK
The Carre series follows two Scottish brothers during the struggle for independence from British rule starting with Johnnie Carre, Laird of Ravensby, year 1704.
Susan Johnson aka C.C. Gibbs has different publishers in the US and UK, hence the different titles and covers.
These are stand-alones, but most enjoyed if read in order:
Book 1: (Year 1704)
Outlaw (US) / Secrets & Sins (UK)
Book 2: (Year 1705)
To Please A Lady (US) / To Please A Lady (UK)
JOHNNIE CARRE, LAIRD OF RAVENSBY:
~30 years/Scottish/Laird/playboy/$$$$/black hair/blue eyes.
ELIZABETH GRAHAM:
~25 years/British/blond hair/green eyes.
Year 1704 were tumultuous times near the Scottish border. Johnnie Carre, Laird of Ravensby is a powerful border Lord and when his baby brother, Robbie is taken hostage by his English enemy, Lord Godfrey he devises a plan to capture and ransom his enemy’s daughter, Elizabeth Graham for his brother.
Sparks fly both in and outside the bedroom. But Johnnie Carre is rake and a key player in Scottish fight for independence against British rule. On opposite sides in a war, Johnnie and Elizabeth’s story is roller-coaster of history-in-the-making, sizzling sex, jealousy, angst, danger, suspense and an against-all-odds love.
Top-10 hero! Captivating and intriguing plot! Spellbinding storytelling! Interesting setting and era!
***
Hero rating: 5+ stars
Heroine rating: 3.5 stars
Sex scenes rating: 5 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 4.5 stars
Storyline concept rating: 4.5 stars
Storytelling skills rating: 5 stars
Story ending rating: 5 stars
******************************
Overall rating: 5 stars
Would I recommend this series: Yes.
Would I re-read this series: Yes.
Would I read future books by this author: Yes.
*In her earlier books Susan Johnson, a master historian, has been known for her abundance of facts and history. She has reference and note section providing further details. I have always found it both interesting and educational. But you don’t have to read in order to enjoy their story.
Be sure to join CCGibbsFANS here on GR for the latest news:
https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
(Public group for members 18 years and older)
![Profile Image for Namera [The Literary Invertebrate].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1647896333i%2F31792110._UX200_CR0%2C96%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
September 13, 2022
What I like about Susan Johnson is that she writes stories I'm occasionally in the mood for - namely, historicals where the hero and/or heroine are married to other people and are cheating together. (NB: This isn't one of those). She's not shy about historical realities; the hero often has illegitimate kids running around and the like.
Unfortunately, in her books the hero also frequently cheats on the heroine, or at the very least has copious amount of sex with OW. This is one such book. The hero has (luridly described) sex with two OW in just the first few chapters, and he also continues to have sex with OW after he's been with the heroine. This is not technically cheating because they part on a casual basis, with no intention of seeing each other again, but it's still offputting.
Another reviewer described this book as having an amazing heroine and crap hero in the first half, then they switch roles. This is very accurate. Initially, our Lady Elizabeth is smart and decisive, while Johnny is distressingly weak and wishy-washy. Then it's like a switch flips and his possessive instinct reasserts itself. He carries her off from her wedding to another man, and once they get married he's absolutely the best husband imaginable - not a sniff of an OW, indulgent, caring, and besotted.
I'd give it three stars for the second half and the decently interesting political plot, but unfortunately Susan Johnson's sex writing was bad here. It's like some weird mechanical erotica that's totally unsexy. That, and the fact I don't understand why and when the couple actually fell in love, has yanked it down to two stars.
I'm now a lot more interested in the story of Johnny's younger brother Robbie, who's just 18 and is having a romance with a widowed single mother countess who's a) a decade older than him and b) his brother's ex-mistress.
Unfortunately, in her books the hero also frequently cheats on the heroine, or at the very least has copious amount of sex with OW. This is one such book. The hero has (luridly described) sex with two OW in just the first few chapters, and he also continues to have sex with OW after he's been with the heroine. This is not technically cheating because they part on a casual basis, with no intention of seeing each other again, but it's still offputting.
Another reviewer described this book as having an amazing heroine and crap hero in the first half, then they switch roles. This is very accurate. Initially, our Lady Elizabeth is smart and decisive, while Johnny is distressingly weak and wishy-washy. Then it's like a switch flips and his possessive instinct reasserts itself. He carries her off from her wedding to another man, and once they get married he's absolutely the best husband imaginable - not a sniff of an OW, indulgent, caring, and besotted.
I'd give it three stars for the second half and the decently interesting political plot, but unfortunately Susan Johnson's sex writing was bad here. It's like some weird mechanical erotica that's totally unsexy. That, and the fact I don't understand why and when the couple actually fell in love, has yanked it down to two stars.
I'm now a lot more interested in the story of Johnny's younger brother Robbie, who's just 18 and is having a romance with a widowed single mother countess who's a) a decade older than him and b) his brother's ex-mistress.
November 3, 2021
2 stars is generous!
I've read Susan Johnson before so I expect sex scenes but she outdid herself in this book. I tried so hard to give it a chance. What is sad is there was a potentially good story in this book, but the author decided to focus on lust instead. Everytime the story picked up they had to f*** again and again. It was monotonous!
Conclusion, I'd rather read a 22pg erotica than a 400pg book of unimagined sex scenes! I gave the book an extra star for some interesting history, even if the author didn't explore it.
I've read Susan Johnson before so I expect sex scenes but she outdid herself in this book. I tried so hard to give it a chance. What is sad is there was a potentially good story in this book, but the author decided to focus on lust instead. Everytime the story picked up they had to f*** again and again. It was monotonous!
Conclusion, I'd rather read a 22pg erotica than a 400pg book of unimagined sex scenes! I gave the book an extra star for some interesting history, even if the author didn't explore it.
March 22, 2014
~~~ 3.5 STARS ~~~ OR 7/10
I really wish goodreads had half stars, sigh. It would make trying to round up or round down much easier.
Okay, on to the review! I do love a kidnapping/captor tale! Especially when love comes a' knockin'! Whether it be contemporary or historical, I'm on it. Outlaw was a good book with some seriously swoon-worthy scenes. It was also a book that had me melting over the hero, Johnnie Carre, a Scottish lord, where initially I wanted to punch him. He was a man of Honor, loyalty, charisma and character. He truly became the shining star of this book.
Johnnie decides to kidnap his enemies daughter, Elizabeth Graham, in order to barter the return of his kidnapped brother, Robbie, by said enemy. Johnnie is meticulous in his planning, and believes that once Elizabeth's disappearance is discovered, his brother will be safely returned in exchange for the British beauty. But what he didn't count on was the intensity with which he'd want her. And rather than diminishing with a hot night of passion, his desire ignites.
I won't say much more than that because there is so much that happens. Things are never without complication and every action in this book is followed up by an equal and potentially devastating reaction. There was intrigue, dirty political ploys, action, suspense and hot romance. Steam, you ask? LOADS. And very well done I have to say, it was white-hot!
I loved Johnnie. He was such an intricate and delectable character. He was so sweet and protective. His honour was limitless and I found myself feeling he owned the book, making it what it was. I especially loved the vigilante execution of justice. Sometimes no law can exert enough punishment except the law of an eye for an eye. But my favourite thing was the sensual and addictive quality to Johnnie's and Elizabeth's growing relationship, gorgeous!
So why the 3.5 stars? As much as I loved the hero and heroine, as much as I loved the romance, I wasn't moved by the attention to political detail. Susan Johnson does a fantastic job of setting the political climate of the time between England and Scotland. Her attention to detail is daunting and along with her incredibly rich vocabulary, she did an amazing job to say the least. But I found myself skipping those parts that fell away from the romance and instead gave me a history lesson. I know many people may like that, even attest to the added brevity to the book. It definitely rounds out the reading experience. But I, as a reader, wasn't interested in those details and they ended up taking away from the story rather than enriching it.
The other thing I wished to see was maybe a more angsty approach to the initial relationship between Johnnie and Elizabeth. There were scenes where I thought added angst would elevate the story from good to amazing.
But like I said, everyone is different. What I didn't care for might impress another. Regardless, this was a good, solid read. The pacing was great and I fell in love with Johnnie and Elizabeth. Robbie gets his story in the sequel and I have to say I loved him and his fierce determination to win over a woman 10 years his senior, that is hot! And the epilogue? Very sweet, very tender.
So a good book with a beautiful story and great characters, enjoyed it.
***copy kindly provided by the author through an arc-coordinator ***
I really wish goodreads had half stars, sigh. It would make trying to round up or round down much easier.
Okay, on to the review! I do love a kidnapping/captor tale! Especially when love comes a' knockin'! Whether it be contemporary or historical, I'm on it. Outlaw was a good book with some seriously swoon-worthy scenes. It was also a book that had me melting over the hero, Johnnie Carre, a Scottish lord, where initially I wanted to punch him. He was a man of Honor, loyalty, charisma and character. He truly became the shining star of this book.
Johnnie decides to kidnap his enemies daughter, Elizabeth Graham, in order to barter the return of his kidnapped brother, Robbie, by said enemy. Johnnie is meticulous in his planning, and believes that once Elizabeth's disappearance is discovered, his brother will be safely returned in exchange for the British beauty. But what he didn't count on was the intensity with which he'd want her. And rather than diminishing with a hot night of passion, his desire ignites.
I won't say much more than that because there is so much that happens. Things are never without complication and every action in this book is followed up by an equal and potentially devastating reaction. There was intrigue, dirty political ploys, action, suspense and hot romance. Steam, you ask? LOADS. And very well done I have to say, it was white-hot!
I loved Johnnie. He was such an intricate and delectable character. He was so sweet and protective. His honour was limitless and I found myself feeling he owned the book, making it what it was. I especially loved the vigilante execution of justice. Sometimes no law can exert enough punishment except the law of an eye for an eye. But my favourite thing was the sensual and addictive quality to Johnnie's and Elizabeth's growing relationship, gorgeous!
So why the 3.5 stars? As much as I loved the hero and heroine, as much as I loved the romance, I wasn't moved by the attention to political detail. Susan Johnson does a fantastic job of setting the political climate of the time between England and Scotland. Her attention to detail is daunting and along with her incredibly rich vocabulary, she did an amazing job to say the least. But I found myself skipping those parts that fell away from the romance and instead gave me a history lesson. I know many people may like that, even attest to the added brevity to the book. It definitely rounds out the reading experience. But I, as a reader, wasn't interested in those details and they ended up taking away from the story rather than enriching it.
The other thing I wished to see was maybe a more angsty approach to the initial relationship between Johnnie and Elizabeth. There were scenes where I thought added angst would elevate the story from good to amazing.
But like I said, everyone is different. What I didn't care for might impress another. Regardless, this was a good, solid read. The pacing was great and I fell in love with Johnnie and Elizabeth. Robbie gets his story in the sequel and I have to say I loved him and his fierce determination to win over a woman 10 years his senior, that is hot! And the epilogue? Very sweet, very tender.
So a good book with a beautiful story and great characters, enjoyed it.
***copy kindly provided by the author through an arc-coordinator ***
May 20, 2010
So this was my biggest problem with this book.....I never liked Elizabeth and Johnnie at the same time. Let me explain.
Elizabeth starts out the book in a strong way. She is a wealthy, independent widow who knows what she wants. She isn't looking for a man to rescue her...she doesn't even want a man...until Johnnie. She falls for Johnnie pretty early on...is jealous of him and his mistresses from the beginning. I really liked her. However, after the point where Johnnie and her marry it's all downhill for Elizabeth. She becomes a whinny, dependent, insecure weakling...opposite from the woman she was at the beginning of the book. Not attractive.
Johnnie starts out the book as a complete rake/jerk/self-involved poor excuse of a man. He is hopping in and out of bed after bed with many different women. There is no heart, just a lot of sex....until Elizabeth. Johnnie is in lust with Elizabeth right away, which doesn't set her apart from any other woman, but he comes to care for her in unfamiliar ways. After he and Elizabeth marry, it's all uphill for Johnnie. He becomes a devoted, faithful, considerate husband...opposite from the man he was at the beginning of the book. Very attractive.
To bad I only liked half of each person's image in this book.
Elizabeth starts out the book in a strong way. She is a wealthy, independent widow who knows what she wants. She isn't looking for a man to rescue her...she doesn't even want a man...until Johnnie. She falls for Johnnie pretty early on...is jealous of him and his mistresses from the beginning. I really liked her. However, after the point where Johnnie and her marry it's all downhill for Elizabeth. She becomes a whinny, dependent, insecure weakling...opposite from the woman she was at the beginning of the book. Not attractive.
Johnnie starts out the book as a complete rake/jerk/self-involved poor excuse of a man. He is hopping in and out of bed after bed with many different women. There is no heart, just a lot of sex....until Elizabeth. Johnnie is in lust with Elizabeth right away, which doesn't set her apart from any other woman, but he comes to care for her in unfamiliar ways. After he and Elizabeth marry, it's all uphill for Johnnie. He becomes a devoted, faithful, considerate husband...opposite from the man he was at the beginning of the book. Very attractive.
To bad I only liked half of each person's image in this book.
May 2, 2023
Been a while since I read this one but I've never been tempted to come back and revisit it because the ending SUCKED.
Also the guy was an unrepentant dick to her for half the story and had fluzzies after they met. Then she's becomes just as annoying after they marry. The grovel was one of those 'oh whoa is me I feel sorry for myself because I was such an asshat to you' kind of grovels. I think she grovels in the end too. It was all so maudlin by the end...
Overall it was OK but mostly the first half where he's kind of a dick.
Also the guy was an unrepentant dick to her for half the story and had fluzzies after they met. Then she's becomes just as annoying after they marry. The grovel was one of those 'oh whoa is me I feel sorry for myself because I was such an asshat to you' kind of grovels. I think she grovels in the end too. It was all so maudlin by the end...
Overall it was OK but mostly the first half where he's kind of a dick.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 25, 2012
Holy mother of God. This first chapter is how you write an opening to a book. Seriously wow, I actually felt breathless. Detailed, detailed, detailed writing, hot damn this is the amazing hard to find craft I have been missing in books lately!
Oh wow, Elizabeth afraid of Johnnie's reputation as a ladies man says "I don't want to be forgotten" and he responds with "I never forget". What a wickedly charming S.O.B.
Kudos to the author for making what would seem to be a very accurate account of two people who feel in love back in the day and were too passionate to say no.
Wanted more action. Book completely turned out to be something totally different from I what expected, the first chapter I thought there would be battles galore but it was more relationship than action. I think readers who like to just read mainly about two characters and want to forgo action or more surrounding plot would love this book.
There is great historical content in this book about the Act of Succession between Scotland and England, but it's a lot of talk which even caused my (I Love history) eyes to glaze over at times. More action less talky please.
I really felt like the book started to drag for me but when Johnnie abducts Elizabeth from her wedding I was excited because it felt like the story was going to pick up again. I was wrong. After Johnnie and Elizabeth are married all they seem to do is spend their days in bed. Elizabeth also turns into a clinging mess, which was a tad disappointing since she was previously portrayed as strong woman; the author tries to play it off giving the excuse of Elizabeth's pregnancy but I was still annoyed.
This book was really well written it just wasn't my cup of juice (I don't like tea). I need more story and my characters to be involved in other things other than in each other and the bedroom. The footnotes were strange for me. Some of them interested my historical self and others were plain silly to have, I can't imagine the average person liking them and in fact I bet most people ignored them. This story was at times boring for me but I can see how others might like it. If you just want to read about two characters who are highly sexual and almost never leave the bedroom then the writing is good enough for you to give this one a go. This book was also at times a "blusher" just saying some scenes might be a bit uncomfortable to read in company.
C: for story/A: for writing style quality
Oh wow, Elizabeth afraid of Johnnie's reputation as a ladies man says "I don't want to be forgotten" and he responds with "I never forget". What a wickedly charming S.O.B.
Kudos to the author for making what would seem to be a very accurate account of two people who feel in love back in the day and were too passionate to say no.
Wanted more action. Book completely turned out to be something totally different from I what expected, the first chapter I thought there would be battles galore but it was more relationship than action. I think readers who like to just read mainly about two characters and want to forgo action or more surrounding plot would love this book.
There is great historical content in this book about the Act of Succession between Scotland and England, but it's a lot of talk which even caused my (I Love history) eyes to glaze over at times. More action less talky please.
I really felt like the book started to drag for me but when Johnnie abducts Elizabeth from her wedding I was excited because it felt like the story was going to pick up again. I was wrong. After Johnnie and Elizabeth are married all they seem to do is spend their days in bed. Elizabeth also turns into a clinging mess, which was a tad disappointing since she was previously portrayed as strong woman; the author tries to play it off giving the excuse of Elizabeth's pregnancy but I was still annoyed.
This book was really well written it just wasn't my cup of juice (I don't like tea). I need more story and my characters to be involved in other things other than in each other and the bedroom. The footnotes were strange for me. Some of them interested my historical self and others were plain silly to have, I can't imagine the average person liking them and in fact I bet most people ignored them. This story was at times boring for me but I can see how others might like it. If you just want to read about two characters who are highly sexual and almost never leave the bedroom then the writing is good enough for you to give this one a go. This book was also at times a "blusher" just saying some scenes might be a bit uncomfortable to read in company.
C: for story/A: for writing style quality
July 11, 2024
Outlaw by Susan Johnson (1993) is a thoroughly enjoyable sexy story set during the ongoing Borders conflict between England and Scotland in the early 1700s.
🏴 While the hero Johnnie, Laird of Ravensby is a strong leader of his people, he also leads a dissolute life with many lovers. His younger brother, Robbie gets captured by one of his long standing enemies so he kidnaps his enemy’s daughter, Elizabeth in retaliation. She’s a widow after 8 years of marriage, independent, wealthy.., sparks and lust instantly heat up between them.
🏴❤️🔥 There plenty of explicit erotic sex scenes, typical of a Susan Johnson book. Some folks don’t care for all the sex … they should realize that most of her books are scorching hot. Personally I don’t pay attention to reviews that are critical of sex scenes as long as the steamy bits are integral to the story. Johnnie has sex with others which in this day and age can be off putting for some readers. Again, it’s the author’s decision to show him as a man who loves sex, and the women who love to bed him. Elizabeth enjoys sex as much as Johnnie … as the story evolves so does their attraction as they realize their deep love for each other.
🏴 Nevertheless, the story is more than sex.., there’s plenty of actual events… Scotland’s attempt at independence again, and this moves the plot along. The author has added historical information at the end of the book… very interesting. Another really good Scottish sizzling sexy read!!
🏴 While the hero Johnnie, Laird of Ravensby is a strong leader of his people, he also leads a dissolute life with many lovers. His younger brother, Robbie gets captured by one of his long standing enemies so he kidnaps his enemy’s daughter, Elizabeth in retaliation. She’s a widow after 8 years of marriage, independent, wealthy.., sparks and lust instantly heat up between them.
🏴❤️🔥 There plenty of explicit erotic sex scenes, typical of a Susan Johnson book. Some folks don’t care for all the sex … they should realize that most of her books are scorching hot. Personally I don’t pay attention to reviews that are critical of sex scenes as long as the steamy bits are integral to the story. Johnnie has sex with others which in this day and age can be off putting for some readers. Again, it’s the author’s decision to show him as a man who loves sex, and the women who love to bed him. Elizabeth enjoys sex as much as Johnnie … as the story evolves so does their attraction as they realize their deep love for each other.
🏴 Nevertheless, the story is more than sex.., there’s plenty of actual events… Scotland’s attempt at independence again, and this moves the plot along. The author has added historical information at the end of the book… very interesting. Another really good Scottish sizzling sexy read!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 25, 2024
Still not a fan of the uber weiners that exist under the guise of heros in S. Johnson’s books. There are too many women lined up to tap the magical horn. But I cannot keep myself from still giving all the stars because the story is beyond rich with wonderful historical details. This book even has a real story reference at the end. It is wow awesome!
August 19, 2021
My first Susan Johnson book. I was a bit apprehensive about reading it (due to the mixed reviews) but I found it to be very good. The book is rich in historical details. Ms. Johnson even puts footnotes. You've got to give it to Ms. Johnson. The book is very well-researched.
I do love the heroine, Elizabeth. My kind of heroine - strong and pragmatic. She was sold into marriage at the age of 16 to a 72 year old and she became a widow 8 years after. The husband wasn't exactly a kind person. She also had to deal with murderous and conniving step-sons. And she did not break. She survived the marriage pretty much intact. Johnnie is your typical rake. He changed for the better because he found his soul mate in Elizabeth. They're well matched in many ways.
The book is very long at 400+ pages so you have to set aside some time to read it. The smuttiness is a lot, but I don't find it that explicit. I do love the wealth of historical details and the emotions that the book evoked in me. The writing is really good as well. A solid 4 stars.
I'd like to read her other books, but I'll probably skip the next one in this series. It has the older women/younger man trope which I'm not a fan of.
I do love the heroine, Elizabeth. My kind of heroine - strong and pragmatic. She was sold into marriage at the age of 16 to a 72 year old and she became a widow 8 years after. The husband wasn't exactly a kind person. She also had to deal with murderous and conniving step-sons. And she did not break. She survived the marriage pretty much intact. Johnnie is your typical rake. He changed for the better because he found his soul mate in Elizabeth. They're well matched in many ways.
The book is very long at 400+ pages so you have to set aside some time to read it. The smuttiness is a lot, but I don't find it that explicit. I do love the wealth of historical details and the emotions that the book evoked in me. The writing is really good as well. A solid 4 stars.
I'd like to read her other books, but I'll probably skip the next one in this series. It has the older women/younger man trope which I'm not a fan of.
April 25, 2012
Wow! I really enjoyed this book by an author I hadn't read before.
Johnnie Carre, Laird of Ravensby, is a rich, powerful, totally promiscuous, and utterly charming Scotsman. (Nary a kilt in sight; it's only 1704. He wears trewes.) He becomes obsessed with Lady Elizabeth Graham, after he abducts her to hold in exchange for his brother who has been captured by Elizabeth's father. And although she's a respectable widow, she becomes obsessed with him too. He lets her go, but that's just the beginning.
There's steamy sex, political intrigue, an interrupted wedding (, sword fights, more abductions, and finally, true love. Johnnie is absolutely yummy. It's a fun read!
Johnnie Carre, Laird of Ravensby, is a rich, powerful, totally promiscuous, and utterly charming Scotsman. (Nary a kilt in sight; it's only 1704. He wears trewes.) He becomes obsessed with Lady Elizabeth Graham, after he abducts her to hold in exchange for his brother who has been captured by Elizabeth's father. And although she's a respectable widow, she becomes obsessed with him too. He lets her go, but that's just the beginning.
There's steamy sex, political intrigue, an interrupted wedding (, sword fights, more abductions, and finally, true love. Johnnie is absolutely yummy. It's a fun read!
July 17, 2020
4 - 4.5 stars. Very good read, really enjoyed this, my first by SJ. The heroine in this book embraces her attraction to the hero rather early on, no traitorous body stuff here, which is not the usual. That said there’s no insta love, but rather a little more insta lust, and SJ does a good job of turning it into love, Johnnie’s transformation was believable. Some good action towards the end. I will definitely read another of her books, I think Sinful will be next...
October 15, 2014
A great storyline, with very engaging characters. Packed full of historical information. Indeed, the author's attention to historical facts (as in another of her books, Sinful Dreams) is truly outstanding. Lots of hot scenes too! ;)
April 23, 2023
Steaming sensuality, touching emotions and great historical detail…Amazing!!!
May 4, 2008
Book 1 of 2 in (2) book series. Next is To Please A Lady. Great Book!!!
October 3, 2017
I'm kind of on the fence about this book. I grabbed it at the Lifeline Bookfair because I love me some early 90s crazysauce romance. I definitely got some crazysauce, but I was not expecting quite so much sex. Like damn. I was worried the poor heroine was going to get a UTI.
At the start, the hero was basically a fuckboi. I did like that the heroine was pretty aloof against his shenanigans. She was pragmatic about what she wanted. Then of course when the hero decides he must have her, he kidnaps her (again) even though he knows she has had it with men making decisions for her. And she is rightfully pissed. Of course he convinces her to change her mind with the power of his magic penis. She then becomes a clingy idiot.
The third act actually had some decent plot, and reminded me more of Virginia Henley (although the writing wasn't as good). The heroine finally got back to her woman of action personality. I did like the brother and widow as a secondary couple. I would be tempted to read their book if I came across it.
I'm still not sure about this author. It's clear she puts a lot of time researching her books - I've never seen another romance with end notes - but I'm not sold on her characterisations. And so much sex. Like I will never look at a ruby pendant in the same way again.
At the start, the hero was basically a fuckboi. I did like that the heroine was pretty aloof against his shenanigans. She was pragmatic about what she wanted. Then of course when the hero decides he must have her, he kidnaps her (again) even though he knows she has had it with men making decisions for her. And she is rightfully pissed. Of course he convinces her to change her mind with the power of his magic penis. She then becomes a clingy idiot.
The third act actually had some decent plot, and reminded me more of Virginia Henley (although the writing wasn't as good). The heroine finally got back to her woman of action personality. I did like the brother and widow as a secondary couple. I would be tempted to read their book if I came across it.
I'm still not sure about this author. It's clear she puts a lot of time researching her books - I've never seen another romance with end notes - but I'm not sold on her characterisations. And so much sex. Like I will never look at a ruby pendant in the same way again.
March 1, 2015
Summary
When Johnnie Carre, the Laird of Ravensby, hears word that his brother has been held captive. He decides to kidnap Elizabeth Graham, whose father is holding his brother in an English prison. They spend a week together, and at first Johnnie knows that she is just a pawn to get his brother back, but on her last night, they make passionate love and Johnnie knows that Elizabeth is so much more than just someone to use to get his brother back. He knows with him Scottish and Elizabeth English there is no way for them to even have a remote future. But Johnnie can’t resist seeing her, or tasting her again. Johnnie and Elizabeth begin a love affair, not realizing the danger to them both. There are enemies that would destroy the Laird of Ravensby, with any means. But Johnnie refuses to let Elizabeth go, he loves her and can’t live without her. But soon they both will be caught in a crossfire that will take some creativity to find a way to be together and defeat those that would destroy them.
The Hero
Johnnie Carre, is a Scottish Laird. He has only one family member alive, his younger brother who is barely eighteen years old. Johnnie delves into trade and commerce and has quite a bit of funds for a Scottish Laird. He despises the English, but there is one English he doesn’t hate…Elizabeth. Johnnie is a connoisseur of women, He loves his pleasure and doesn’t mind all of his affairs. Johnnie is quite the hero, he is complex, driven and passionate. He is a fighter and a warrior, and he isn’t afraid to stand on his own and take what he wants. He has never known love, but the moment Elizabeth enters his life, he notices changes within himself and acts accordingly. You see how strong he is, and I loved his personality. Energetic and engaging.
The Heroine
Elizabeth Graham, is a woman of wealth. She is recently widowed, from a man who had much wealth, which her father will do anything to get his hands on. Elizabeth was treated poorly by her late husband, and is determined to not marry again. She refuses to be under a man’s control again, all she wants is have her own home, and live in peace with her guardsmen who are like family to her. But when she meets Johnnie, she is shown desire and passion and tenderness from a man’s touch. Elizabeth was a strong-willed heroine. Despite what she has suffered from her father and her late husband, that doesn’t deter her from making her own happiness. She wants to be independent and free of men. Her character was so spirited and full of life, and I found her to be such a likeable character.
Plot and Story Line
Outlaw is the first of two books in this duo series. These connected books are based on brothers. In this one we have Johnnie’s story. It has been so long since I have read this author. Susan Johnson is an impressionable author, and out of all the authors I have read, she is one of the most talented storyteller’s out there. Her books aren’t lighthearted and fun (although they do have some playful aspects), her stories are the hard to win romances that stimulate the blood and awaken the mind. Years and years I ago I read “Blaze” which was an amazing story, and after finding this treasure, I am going to need to buy the rest of her books. I had forgotten how much I had enjoyed her before. The story starts off a bit slow, but I felt after I finished the book, that it was necessary to build it up. The author here is creating a story that is vividly detailed and full of historical events that are vital to the story. It is set in the early 1700’s, in Scotland. The set up of the story is two people who are enemies but are turned into lovers. But from their first meeting, they have a teasing and playful interaction. This is no angst romance, it has many deep complexities to the plot, that I found riveting from the first chapter. The development of the characters are done very well, and we see the many layers of the two people who you will come to fall in love with. I don’t think there is a big issue I had with this book. I really had such a good time with it, it is over 400 pages, so you need to make sure you have time to read it. It’s not going to be read quickly. You don’t want to skim over this one, because you might miss out on something that is vital to the story. I am so relieved I took my time with this one, and didn’t rush through it. I put on some relaxing classical music, and relaxed for a few hours so that I could fully enjoy this one. Because I knew that I wouldn’t want to skimp out on Susan Johnson. If you have yet to try this author out, you are missing out. She writing stunning historical romances that captivate you in every way.
Cover
The cover is very stunning. I love the simplicity of it, and I do enjoy Johnson’s stepbacks. There are times I miss the older covers, and this is why. There is so much simple beauty in the step back and I just wanted to share it because with the setting, it definitely connects to a scene in the story.
Overall View
Outlaw is a riveting tale that is about sacrifice, loyalty and the true power of love…a tale of sensuality and danger, a intoxicating love story…TOTALLY CAPTIVATING!!!
When Johnnie Carre, the Laird of Ravensby, hears word that his brother has been held captive. He decides to kidnap Elizabeth Graham, whose father is holding his brother in an English prison. They spend a week together, and at first Johnnie knows that she is just a pawn to get his brother back, but on her last night, they make passionate love and Johnnie knows that Elizabeth is so much more than just someone to use to get his brother back. He knows with him Scottish and Elizabeth English there is no way for them to even have a remote future. But Johnnie can’t resist seeing her, or tasting her again. Johnnie and Elizabeth begin a love affair, not realizing the danger to them both. There are enemies that would destroy the Laird of Ravensby, with any means. But Johnnie refuses to let Elizabeth go, he loves her and can’t live without her. But soon they both will be caught in a crossfire that will take some creativity to find a way to be together and defeat those that would destroy them.
The Hero
Johnnie Carre, is a Scottish Laird. He has only one family member alive, his younger brother who is barely eighteen years old. Johnnie delves into trade and commerce and has quite a bit of funds for a Scottish Laird. He despises the English, but there is one English he doesn’t hate…Elizabeth. Johnnie is a connoisseur of women, He loves his pleasure and doesn’t mind all of his affairs. Johnnie is quite the hero, he is complex, driven and passionate. He is a fighter and a warrior, and he isn’t afraid to stand on his own and take what he wants. He has never known love, but the moment Elizabeth enters his life, he notices changes within himself and acts accordingly. You see how strong he is, and I loved his personality. Energetic and engaging.
The Heroine
Elizabeth Graham, is a woman of wealth. She is recently widowed, from a man who had much wealth, which her father will do anything to get his hands on. Elizabeth was treated poorly by her late husband, and is determined to not marry again. She refuses to be under a man’s control again, all she wants is have her own home, and live in peace with her guardsmen who are like family to her. But when she meets Johnnie, she is shown desire and passion and tenderness from a man’s touch. Elizabeth was a strong-willed heroine. Despite what she has suffered from her father and her late husband, that doesn’t deter her from making her own happiness. She wants to be independent and free of men. Her character was so spirited and full of life, and I found her to be such a likeable character.
Plot and Story Line
Outlaw is the first of two books in this duo series. These connected books are based on brothers. In this one we have Johnnie’s story. It has been so long since I have read this author. Susan Johnson is an impressionable author, and out of all the authors I have read, she is one of the most talented storyteller’s out there. Her books aren’t lighthearted and fun (although they do have some playful aspects), her stories are the hard to win romances that stimulate the blood and awaken the mind. Years and years I ago I read “Blaze” which was an amazing story, and after finding this treasure, I am going to need to buy the rest of her books. I had forgotten how much I had enjoyed her before. The story starts off a bit slow, but I felt after I finished the book, that it was necessary to build it up. The author here is creating a story that is vividly detailed and full of historical events that are vital to the story. It is set in the early 1700’s, in Scotland. The set up of the story is two people who are enemies but are turned into lovers. But from their first meeting, they have a teasing and playful interaction. This is no angst romance, it has many deep complexities to the plot, that I found riveting from the first chapter. The development of the characters are done very well, and we see the many layers of the two people who you will come to fall in love with. I don’t think there is a big issue I had with this book. I really had such a good time with it, it is over 400 pages, so you need to make sure you have time to read it. It’s not going to be read quickly. You don’t want to skim over this one, because you might miss out on something that is vital to the story. I am so relieved I took my time with this one, and didn’t rush through it. I put on some relaxing classical music, and relaxed for a few hours so that I could fully enjoy this one. Because I knew that I wouldn’t want to skimp out on Susan Johnson. If you have yet to try this author out, you are missing out. She writing stunning historical romances that captivate you in every way.
Cover
The cover is very stunning. I love the simplicity of it, and I do enjoy Johnson’s stepbacks. There are times I miss the older covers, and this is why. There is so much simple beauty in the step back and I just wanted to share it because with the setting, it definitely connects to a scene in the story.
Overall View
Outlaw is a riveting tale that is about sacrifice, loyalty and the true power of love…a tale of sensuality and danger, a intoxicating love story…TOTALLY CAPTIVATING!!!
May 31, 2020
THIS WAS DELIGHTFUL. I CAN'T REMEMBER MUCH ABOUT THE REST OF SUSAN JOHNSON'S STORIES BUT I DO KNOW I'VE ENJOYED APLENTY. THIS MIGHT BE HER BETTER ONES YET.
JOHNNIE is a unapologetic womanizer who has no qualms about enjoying the many women in his bed wherever and whenever he is, even siring brats foisted on married women he doesn't even care to know about. It doesn't speak much of his character, frankly. In the beginning, Johnnie's frivolous nature won't endear him to anyone but the moment he takes Elizabeth as his captive, their chemistry just leaped off the pages. Their attraction started out sizzling and also predictable, BUT it didn't bore me. Usually when it's insta-love or easy attraction, I'll lose interest but for some reason, Johnnie and Elizabeth's passion only burned brighter, leaving them unable to forget about the other even after another bout of sexual escapade. Johnnie's never fallen in love, and he certainly felt anything for a woman because they are all interchangeable to him. With Elizabeth, he feels differently and only realizes the depths of his feelings when she's pregnant with HIS child and on the verge of marrying another man. It's refreshing to see a hero who will respect his woman, by being thoughtful and putting himself in her shoes. For example, when she's jealous and attacks him for his past with his many women, he reigns in his urge to hit her because he imagined himself feeling the same way if Elizabeth coupled with another man. Hell, he was even jealous of her dead husband. Anyway, after Elizabeth, everyone can see that Johnnie's a reformed rake and one who will do anything to protect his wife and unborn son.
ELIZABETH has been living under the thumb of her father and dead husband for 24 years, 8 for with her husband. She's finally gotten her freedom and the money that came after her husband's death and she won't ever go back to that life again. Unfortunately, fate has other plans when her father's enemy kidnaps her albeit in a polite and friendly manner, keeping her as a GUEST in his home until they got his brother back. Johnnie and Elizabeth's Father have no love between the two and it's one of the impediment between the couple during their marriage. Elizabeth's quite a refreshing heroine to read about. Married for 8 years without children, she assumed herself barren, and no she's not a virginal shy miss either. Her passion matched Johnnie's and you'll find many scenes where they'll both be romping about between the sheets or even a quick fuck anywhere. There was little angst prior to their marriage and after that it was a lot of husband-wife devotion that just makes you want to sigh everytime.
OVERALL this was an enjoyable historical romance by Susan Johnson, one that kept me on the edge wanting to know more about what will happen to the characters, will they get their HEA and well I can just tell you that it was a smoothly written and diverting story.
JOHNNIE is a unapologetic womanizer who has no qualms about enjoying the many women in his bed wherever and whenever he is, even siring brats foisted on married women he doesn't even care to know about. It doesn't speak much of his character, frankly. In the beginning, Johnnie's frivolous nature won't endear him to anyone but the moment he takes Elizabeth as his captive, their chemistry just leaped off the pages. Their attraction started out sizzling and also predictable, BUT it didn't bore me. Usually when it's insta-love or easy attraction, I'll lose interest but for some reason, Johnnie and Elizabeth's passion only burned brighter, leaving them unable to forget about the other even after another bout of sexual escapade. Johnnie's never fallen in love, and he certainly felt anything for a woman because they are all interchangeable to him. With Elizabeth, he feels differently and only realizes the depths of his feelings when she's pregnant with HIS child and on the verge of marrying another man. It's refreshing to see a hero who will respect his woman, by being thoughtful and putting himself in her shoes. For example, when she's jealous and attacks him for his past with his many women, he reigns in his urge to hit her because he imagined himself feeling the same way if Elizabeth coupled with another man. Hell, he was even jealous of her dead husband. Anyway, after Elizabeth, everyone can see that Johnnie's a reformed rake and one who will do anything to protect his wife and unborn son.
ELIZABETH has been living under the thumb of her father and dead husband for 24 years, 8 for with her husband. She's finally gotten her freedom and the money that came after her husband's death and she won't ever go back to that life again. Unfortunately, fate has other plans when her father's enemy kidnaps her albeit in a polite and friendly manner, keeping her as a GUEST in his home until they got his brother back. Johnnie and Elizabeth's Father have no love between the two and it's one of the impediment between the couple during their marriage. Elizabeth's quite a refreshing heroine to read about. Married for 8 years without children, she assumed herself barren, and no she's not a virginal shy miss either. Her passion matched Johnnie's and you'll find many scenes where they'll both be romping about between the sheets or even a quick fuck anywhere. There was little angst prior to their marriage and after that it was a lot of husband-wife devotion that just makes you want to sigh everytime.
OVERALL this was an enjoyable historical romance by Susan Johnson, one that kept me on the edge wanting to know more about what will happen to the characters, will they get their HEA and well I can just tell you that it was a smoothly written and diverting story.
July 15, 2010
Johnnie Carre, a powerful Border Lord in Scotland, kidnaps Elizabeth Graham, widowed daughter of his English enemy Lord Harold Godfrey, to force the release of his brother, Robbie.
Threatened by her father and her dead husband's sons, who plot to gain control of her marital inheritance, Elizabeth discovers she is pregnant with Johnnie's child. She proposes a marriage of convenience to her longtime suitor George Baldwin, who accepts. With an army of 300 men, Johnnie gallops into England to abduct the bride at the altar and ride with Elizabeth back to his country estate, Goldiehouse. But their happiness is threatened by the wicked Godfrey, Elizabeth's father.
Elizabeth starts out the book in a strong way. She is a wealthy, independent widow who knows what she wants. She isn't looking for a man to rescue her, she doesn't even want a man...until Johnnie. She falls for Johnnie pretty early on, is jealous of him and his mistresses from the beginning. I really liked her. However, after the point where Johnnie and her marry it's all downhill for Elizabeth. She becomes a whinny, dependent, insecure weakling--opposite from the woman she was at the beginning of the book.
More of Purplycookie’s Reviews @: http://www.goodreads.com/purplycookie
Book Details:
Title Outlaw (Carre #1)
Author Susan Johnson
Reviewed By Purplycookie
Threatened by her father and her dead husband's sons, who plot to gain control of her marital inheritance, Elizabeth discovers she is pregnant with Johnnie's child. She proposes a marriage of convenience to her longtime suitor George Baldwin, who accepts. With an army of 300 men, Johnnie gallops into England to abduct the bride at the altar and ride with Elizabeth back to his country estate, Goldiehouse. But their happiness is threatened by the wicked Godfrey, Elizabeth's father.
Elizabeth starts out the book in a strong way. She is a wealthy, independent widow who knows what she wants. She isn't looking for a man to rescue her, she doesn't even want a man...until Johnnie. She falls for Johnnie pretty early on, is jealous of him and his mistresses from the beginning. I really liked her. However, after the point where Johnnie and her marry it's all downhill for Elizabeth. She becomes a whinny, dependent, insecure weakling--opposite from the woman she was at the beginning of the book.
More of Purplycookie’s Reviews @: http://www.goodreads.com/purplycookie
Book Details:
Title Outlaw (Carre #1)
Author Susan Johnson
Reviewed By Purplycookie
Read
February 6, 2012This is an older book, so it was really interesting to compare it to current historical romances. The biggest difference in the hero. I've read a ton of romances lately with these Majorly Traumatized heroes (Oh, poor me, I'm a duke with all the money and power in the world and I'm so sad about my dark past....). This hero is different. He's A-OK. He's perfect, he knows it, and he's happy in his perfection. He's got a definite James Bond sort of thing going on. It may make him shallow, but still, he's sexy and it's lots of fun watching him struggle to decide between freedom and the shackles of love.
The heroine, I should add, is strong. Strong willed and whip smart, which is really important for her to be an effective foil to Mr. Big Pants. If she'd been a drooping flower, he would have been unbearable, and the book unreadable.
The most surprising thing about this book was its heat level. I was shocked--shocked I tell you!--by the intensity and creativity of some of the love scenes, especially as it is an older book and not marketed as erotica. Two words: penetrative jewelry. If you're looking for a hot, fun historical, I'd say you've found it.
Caveat: I did find myself skipping through a lot of the historical/political detail.
The heroine, I should add, is strong. Strong willed and whip smart, which is really important for her to be an effective foil to Mr. Big Pants. If she'd been a drooping flower, he would have been unbearable, and the book unreadable.
The most surprising thing about this book was its heat level. I was shocked--shocked I tell you!--by the intensity and creativity of some of the love scenes, especially as it is an older book and not marketed as erotica. Two words: penetrative jewelry. If you're looking for a hot, fun historical, I'd say you've found it.
Caveat: I did find myself skipping through a lot of the historical/political detail.
June 12, 2011
It took me a long time to feel involved in the story of these two people. For a while all it seemed to consist of was a series of sex scenes. Now I've no objection to sensual novels, but there has to be something else. It wasn't till near the end when the plotting and fighting really began that I started to care about their fate. Good job I don't give up on books that easily.
December 16, 2012
Such a vivid storyline, unlike any others historical romance novels where the story was somewhat predictable. I personally admired the author's researches regarded of the story, however some historical explanations that keep the story going can be bored at times. Nonetheless, the author truly have me convinced of Johnnie & Elizabeth love throughout the novel.
January 24, 2012
I really wish there was a way to give books half star ratings because 2.5 stars would probably sum up perfectly what I thought. I mean, it's a bodice ripping romance novel. I don't go into it expecting high literature or anything. So, yeah, it is what it is.
August 11, 2011
This book does not dissapoint. I really liked it and will continue to read books from her.
November 8, 2011
Loved it. It was so good.
August 6, 2017
"He was a wild rogue who filled her with ecstasy -- and impossible longings. She should have been afraid, for he towered over her, holding her captive with eyes that smoldered with barely leashed passion, but what Elizabeth Graham felt instead was an answering fire. He was her enemy, the infamous Laird of Ravensby, a bold privateer who'd abducted her to win his brother's freedom from an English dungeon. Yet even though tomorrow they'd be adversaries once more, tonight she could no9t den herself the pleasure of his touch.
"She was a temptress who made him ache with desire -- and forget they were enemies. The lady was his prisoner, c9ompletely at his mercy, yet when the feisty angel whose hair glittered with moonlight stood proudly before him and insisted he spend the night, Johnnie Carre was shocked to feel a restless, aching need to possess her, to taste her secrets and make her his forever. But keeping her with him would force a battle with treacherous foes -- men who'd vowed to tear his beloved from his arms and send him to the gallows."
~~back cover
Yes, a bodice ripper. An d much more of a bodice ripper than the second book in the series. But still set in a time of Scottish ascendancy and determination to become independent of England's ever worsening grip on the country. Very historically accurate, and a good read.
"She was a temptress who made him ache with desire -- and forget they were enemies. The lady was his prisoner, c9ompletely at his mercy, yet when the feisty angel whose hair glittered with moonlight stood proudly before him and insisted he spend the night, Johnnie Carre was shocked to feel a restless, aching need to possess her, to taste her secrets and make her his forever. But keeping her with him would force a battle with treacherous foes -- men who'd vowed to tear his beloved from his arms and send him to the gallows."
~~back cover
Yes, a bodice ripper. An d much more of a bodice ripper than the second book in the series. But still set in a time of Scottish ascendancy and determination to become independent of England's ever worsening grip on the country. Very historically accurate, and a good read.
August 7, 2022
The trip down memory lane continues. I remember discovering Susan johnson sometime in the late 80’s and she was perfect. All the historical detail (which I have always been a sucker for) and all the sex but without the flowery language of say Bertrice Small. These facts are still true but this book suffers from a lack of any romance. Johnnie Carre is the perfect unrepentant man-whore. He’s young, rich, smart and of course sexy. Elizabeth starts out a strong independent widow. They of course have insta lust that eventually translates to lurv. Any interactions that would show them falling in love are glossed over for more sex. Neither has any intentions of marrying until Johnnie’s magic sperm takes root and Bitsy’s 8 years of barrenness is ended. This proves to Johnnie that it must be love and they must marry. Ugh
Elizabeth is almost completely unnecessary to this story. Once they marry she is nothing more than a sexbot who has jealous fits and cries. We know nothing about her really. Her upbringing by Johnnie’s mortal enemy (who’s a bad guy of course) and her 8 year marriage to a scary guy are mentioned but never fleshed out. Really this book is about Johnnie and reads more like historical fiction with sexy times. Now to go find a copy of his little brother Robbie’s book…
Elizabeth is almost completely unnecessary to this story. Once they marry she is nothing more than a sexbot who has jealous fits and cries. We know nothing about her really. Her upbringing by Johnnie’s mortal enemy (who’s a bad guy of course) and her 8 year marriage to a scary guy are mentioned but never fleshed out. Really this book is about Johnnie and reads more like historical fiction with sexy times. Now to go find a copy of his little brother Robbie’s book…
April 15, 2019
This book is set in the early 1700s, while Scotland and England are fighting, through their Parliaments, over Scottish independence. Johnnie Carre, Laird of Ravensby in Scotland, kidnaps Elizabeth Graham, widowed daughter of his archenemy Lord Harold Godfrey. His purpose is to force Godfrey's release of his 18-year-old brother, Robbie.
I don't have a problem with sensuous bedroom scenes in a novel. However, this book went overboard and I grew bored with the marathon sessions between Johnnie and everybody and Johnnie and Elizabeth. To say Johnnie was promiscuous is an understatement.
I also grew tired of the references to Johnnie's manly physique (ad nauseum). This book (448 pages) could have been whittled down considerably. The exciting plotting and fighting, when it finally came, seemed too late. I'd already decided this was a tedious story. 3.5 stars
Carre Series
** 1. Outlaw (1996)
2. To Please a Lady (1999)
I don't have a problem with sensuous bedroom scenes in a novel. However, this book went overboard and I grew bored with the marathon sessions between Johnnie and everybody and Johnnie and Elizabeth. To say Johnnie was promiscuous is an understatement.
I also grew tired of the references to Johnnie's manly physique (ad nauseum). This book (448 pages) could have been whittled down considerably. The exciting plotting and fighting, when it finally came, seemed too late. I'd already decided this was a tedious story. 3.5 stars
Carre Series
** 1. Outlaw (1996)
2. To Please a Lady (1999)
September 24, 2021
There is no such thing as 'slow burn' at S Johnson 😁 or decent men. Nope, they are all Casanova, they are f*cking around with every woman they want cause all the women want them back 🙄
This book.. Were parts that I loved and parts that I liked less. Too much sex, in a way that it's not real. Like the heroine and hero are both on some drugs that makes them super horny.
But if you like erotica.. Sure this is a book for you cause is pretty complex-sex, hate, intrigue, action and an actual plot.
This book.. Were parts that I loved and parts that I liked less. Too much sex, in a way that it's not real. Like the heroine and hero are both on some drugs that makes them super horny.
But if you like erotica.. Sure this is a book for you cause is pretty complex-sex, hate, intrigue, action and an actual plot.
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