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Highland Force #3
Beauty and the Barbarian
Born with the mark of the devil, Merrin has been hidden on the islet of Eilean Fladda for near twenty years. When the body of a Highlander washes ashore, the innocent lass presumes him dead. Brushing the hair from the rugged warrior’s face, her fingers connect with warm flesh. Warm.
Ian MacLeod wakes to a woman so radiant, he believes her an angel. But when the lass recoils from him, he fears she knows of his evil deeds. While he heals, Ian is stunned when he exposes her witch’s mark, yet he’s spellbound by Merrin’s allure. He’d do anything to erase his haunting past and earn her love.
But there’s a henchman after Ian’s head, and when that man learns the Highlander is still alive, the couple is forced to flee Merrin’s sheltered world. Fighting for survival, destiny demands they each face their demons, but doing so may forever ruin them both.
Ian MacLeod wakes to a woman so radiant, he believes her an angel. But when the lass recoils from him, he fears she knows of his evil deeds. While he heals, Ian is stunned when he exposes her witch’s mark, yet he’s spellbound by Merrin’s allure. He’d do anything to erase his haunting past and earn her love.
But there’s a henchman after Ian’s head, and when that man learns the Highlander is still alive, the couple is forced to flee Merrin’s sheltered world. Fighting for survival, destiny demands they each face their demons, but doing so may forever ruin them both.
340 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 23, 2014
541 people are currently reading
1254 people want to read
About the author
Amy Jarecki
113 books1,713 followersKnown for her action-packed, passionate romances, USA TODAY Bestselling Author Amy Jarecki has received reader and critical praise throughout her writing career. She won the prestigious RT Reviewers' Choice award for THE HIGHLAND DUKE and a RONE award from InD’tale Magazine for Best Time Travel for her novel RISE OF A LEGEND. In addition to being a USA TODAY Bestselling Author, Amy has earned the designation as an Amazon All Star Author. She holds an MBA from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland and now resides in Wisconsin with her husband where she writes immersive historical and contemporary romance novels.
Become a part of her world and learn more about Amy’s books on amyjarecki.com!
Become a part of her world and learn more about Amy’s books on amyjarecki.com!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
June 16, 2018
I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH.
Huge thanks to Renee (@Addicted to Romance) for recommending this one to me. I love the healer/knight trope in romance, and she gave me a long list of romance novels with the trope, and this one was one of them. To the surprise of no one, I absolutely loved the book. Ugh. It was perfect!
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Beauty and the Barbarian by Amy Jarecki
Book Three of the Highland Force series
Publisher: Rapture Books
Publication Date: May 28, 2014
Rating: 5 stars
Source: Purchased Kindle copy
Summary (from Goodreads):
Born with the mark of the devil, Merrin has been hidden on the islet of Eilean Fladda for near twenty years. When the body of a Highlander washes ashore, the innocent lass presumes him dead. Brushing the hair from the rugged warrior’s face, her fingers connect with warm flesh. Warm.
Ian MacLeod wakes to a woman so radiant, he believes her an angel. But when the lass recoils from him, he fears she knows of his evil deeds. While he heals, Ian is stunned when he exposes her witch’s mark, yet he’s spellbound by Merrin’s allure. He’d do anything to erase his haunting past and earn her love.
But there’s a henchman after Ian’s head, and when that man learns the Highlander is still alive, the couple is forced to flee Merrin’s sheltered world. Fighting for survival, destiny demands they each face their demons, but doing so may forever ruin them both.
What I Liked:
Here I go with another backlist read! This book was recently recommended to me by a dear blogging pal, Renee (Addicted to Romance), who is the queen of romance reading and knows just about everything there is to know about romance novels. I had asked her for romance recommendations involving the healer maiden/knight trope, and she delivered! She listed four or five different titles - this being one of them. I recognized Jarecki's name from her books with Forever Romance, but I'd not read anything by her. This book is $3.99 on Amazon (the Kindle version) and it came recommended by a friend, so I decided to give it a chance. I'm glad I did!
Ian MacLeod, second son of Laird Calum MacLeod and Lady Anne, didn't intend to get shot in the back and wash up on the shores of Fladda. He spirited away his uncle's young wife, after discovering that his uncle beat her. Janet is safe with her kinsmen, but Ian is injured, and at large. It is luck that he washes up on the shores of the home of a healer and his daughter. Merrin and her father live in an isolated cottage, because many fear that Merrin is a witch (due to an unusual birthmark on her neck). Niall (Merrin's father) is a skilled healer, and Merrin is quite good as well. They take in Ian without knowing who he is, though they suspect he is a well-bred Highlander. Unfortunately for all three of them, Ian's uncle won't stop hunting Ian until he knows that Ian is dead. Ian, Merrin, and Niall are forced to flee for their lives. Merrin has never known life outside Fladda, but now she must give up everything to stay alive.
I would first like to take a moment to appreciate the cover and all of the fineness that is Ian MacLeod (well, his model, anyway). I loooove how the model doesn't have facial hair, because that's so true to the character - Ian hates facial hair! It's hilarious. I'm not usually a fan of completely clean-shaven looks, but I think it's fantastic that the cover has that small part of the character represented. So much smoothness on that cover!
Ian the man is such a wonderful hero. He is clearly very selfless and brave, having given no thought but to rescue a woman who is being abused, even if the woman is his uncle's wife. He protects Merrin and Niall with all his strength, which isn't much, given his musket gunshot wound. Ian is loyal, upstanding, chivalrous, and caring - everything a knight should be. He's a good man with a good heart - not to mention charming and swoon-worthy as well. I swooned a lot!
Merrin is timid at first, given her sheltered lifestyle. She has lived in isolation and fear, expecting everyone to want to kill her because of her birthmark. But Merrin is sweet and kind and gentle, with all the qualities of a good healer. She is soft where Ian is hard, kind where he is fierce, caring where he is stubborn. She develops her will as the journey goes on. Her selflessness shines throughout the story, even among those that want her dead.
As a couple, Ian and Merrin are both smoldering and sweet. They have amazing chemistry from the start, and they also get along well. Jarecki builds the chemistry slow at first, and then it's an inferno. I liked this progression! Things get heated between Ian and Merrin, and there are a number of sexy times in this book. Jarecki knows how to cook up good tension and chemistry.
And of course I was really satisfied with the healer/knight trope. Merrin is a gentle maiden and a good healer, and Ian is an alpha knight who isn't an alpha-hole, but is brawny, cunning, skilled, and also charming. They are foils, and they balance well. The trope was executed perfectly!
The story is exciting from start to finish! The kind of exciting that has you biting your nails and sitting at the edge of your seat. Ian, Merrin, and Niall are fleeing for their lives for most of the book, with almost nowhere to go. There is a desperate undertone to the book - will they make it? Will Ian turn himself over in order to save Merrin and Niall? Will Ian's brother grant them sanctuary? There were many pieces in play, and nothing was guaranteed.
The ending was a very good one, with a nice happily-ever-after. I loved reading Ian and Merrin's journey, and was happy that they finally got to sit and rest, at bare minimum. The story is lovely and the HEA is fitting. Though I wouldn't mind an epilogue or check-in of some sort!
What I Did Not Like:
The only complaint I had (and it's a minor one) is the amount of crying in this book. Gosh, Merrin cried a lot! Now, it's not like she cried in every scene - that would have been crazy. I'd say a character could cry made two or three times in the book, and that's not too much. But Merrin cried maybe four or five times? I think it's her personality/character - she gets sad or frustrated and that's her immediate reaction. But I wanted to shake her a little! Get a grip, lady! It wasn't so bad though. Some of the crying was death-related (but then some of it was like, jealousy-related.).
Would I Recommend It:
I loved this Highlander romance, and I would definitely loved the gentle healer/tough knight trope. That trope is one of my "guilty" pleasures, and it worked well in this story. I've not read anything else in this series or by this author, but I highly recommend this book. It's the third book in the series but all of the books are companion novels. I imagine the first two books will feature characters I've seen in books one and two. Perhaps I will give those two a shot as well!
Rating:
5 stars. I loved this book so much! I am already planning to reread it. I've been in a bit of a reading slump, and I picked this one up on a whim. I'm glad I did because I really enjoyed it. I will definitely return to this series, but for now, I will hunt down some of Renee's other recommendations that feature a gentle healer and an alpha knight!
Huge thanks to Renee (@Addicted to Romance) for recommending this one to me. I love the healer/knight trope in romance, and she gave me a long list of romance novels with the trope, and this one was one of them. To the surprise of no one, I absolutely loved the book. Ugh. It was perfect!
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Beauty and the Barbarian by Amy Jarecki
Book Three of the Highland Force series
Publisher: Rapture Books
Publication Date: May 28, 2014
Rating: 5 stars
Source: Purchased Kindle copy
Summary (from Goodreads):
Born with the mark of the devil, Merrin has been hidden on the islet of Eilean Fladda for near twenty years. When the body of a Highlander washes ashore, the innocent lass presumes him dead. Brushing the hair from the rugged warrior’s face, her fingers connect with warm flesh. Warm.
Ian MacLeod wakes to a woman so radiant, he believes her an angel. But when the lass recoils from him, he fears she knows of his evil deeds. While he heals, Ian is stunned when he exposes her witch’s mark, yet he’s spellbound by Merrin’s allure. He’d do anything to erase his haunting past and earn her love.
But there’s a henchman after Ian’s head, and when that man learns the Highlander is still alive, the couple is forced to flee Merrin’s sheltered world. Fighting for survival, destiny demands they each face their demons, but doing so may forever ruin them both.
What I Liked:
Here I go with another backlist read! This book was recently recommended to me by a dear blogging pal, Renee (Addicted to Romance), who is the queen of romance reading and knows just about everything there is to know about romance novels. I had asked her for romance recommendations involving the healer maiden/knight trope, and she delivered! She listed four or five different titles - this being one of them. I recognized Jarecki's name from her books with Forever Romance, but I'd not read anything by her. This book is $3.99 on Amazon (the Kindle version) and it came recommended by a friend, so I decided to give it a chance. I'm glad I did!
Ian MacLeod, second son of Laird Calum MacLeod and Lady Anne, didn't intend to get shot in the back and wash up on the shores of Fladda. He spirited away his uncle's young wife, after discovering that his uncle beat her. Janet is safe with her kinsmen, but Ian is injured, and at large. It is luck that he washes up on the shores of the home of a healer and his daughter. Merrin and her father live in an isolated cottage, because many fear that Merrin is a witch (due to an unusual birthmark on her neck). Niall (Merrin's father) is a skilled healer, and Merrin is quite good as well. They take in Ian without knowing who he is, though they suspect he is a well-bred Highlander. Unfortunately for all three of them, Ian's uncle won't stop hunting Ian until he knows that Ian is dead. Ian, Merrin, and Niall are forced to flee for their lives. Merrin has never known life outside Fladda, but now she must give up everything to stay alive.
I would first like to take a moment to appreciate the cover and all of the fineness that is Ian MacLeod (well, his model, anyway). I loooove how the model doesn't have facial hair, because that's so true to the character - Ian hates facial hair! It's hilarious. I'm not usually a fan of completely clean-shaven looks, but I think it's fantastic that the cover has that small part of the character represented. So much smoothness on that cover!
Ian the man is such a wonderful hero. He is clearly very selfless and brave, having given no thought but to rescue a woman who is being abused, even if the woman is his uncle's wife. He protects Merrin and Niall with all his strength, which isn't much, given his musket gunshot wound. Ian is loyal, upstanding, chivalrous, and caring - everything a knight should be. He's a good man with a good heart - not to mention charming and swoon-worthy as well. I swooned a lot!
Merrin is timid at first, given her sheltered lifestyle. She has lived in isolation and fear, expecting everyone to want to kill her because of her birthmark. But Merrin is sweet and kind and gentle, with all the qualities of a good healer. She is soft where Ian is hard, kind where he is fierce, caring where he is stubborn. She develops her will as the journey goes on. Her selflessness shines throughout the story, even among those that want her dead.
As a couple, Ian and Merrin are both smoldering and sweet. They have amazing chemistry from the start, and they also get along well. Jarecki builds the chemistry slow at first, and then it's an inferno. I liked this progression! Things get heated between Ian and Merrin, and there are a number of sexy times in this book. Jarecki knows how to cook up good tension and chemistry.
And of course I was really satisfied with the healer/knight trope. Merrin is a gentle maiden and a good healer, and Ian is an alpha knight who isn't an alpha-hole, but is brawny, cunning, skilled, and also charming. They are foils, and they balance well. The trope was executed perfectly!
The story is exciting from start to finish! The kind of exciting that has you biting your nails and sitting at the edge of your seat. Ian, Merrin, and Niall are fleeing for their lives for most of the book, with almost nowhere to go. There is a desperate undertone to the book - will they make it? Will Ian turn himself over in order to save Merrin and Niall? Will Ian's brother grant them sanctuary? There were many pieces in play, and nothing was guaranteed.
The ending was a very good one, with a nice happily-ever-after. I loved reading Ian and Merrin's journey, and was happy that they finally got to sit and rest, at bare minimum. The story is lovely and the HEA is fitting. Though I wouldn't mind an epilogue or check-in of some sort!
What I Did Not Like:
The only complaint I had (and it's a minor one) is the amount of crying in this book. Gosh, Merrin cried a lot! Now, it's not like she cried in every scene - that would have been crazy. I'd say a character could cry made two or three times in the book, and that's not too much. But Merrin cried maybe four or five times? I think it's her personality/character - she gets sad or frustrated and that's her immediate reaction. But I wanted to shake her a little! Get a grip, lady! It wasn't so bad though. Some of the crying was death-related (but then some of it was like, jealousy-related.).
Would I Recommend It:
I loved this Highlander romance, and I would definitely loved the gentle healer/tough knight trope. That trope is one of my "guilty" pleasures, and it worked well in this story. I've not read anything else in this series or by this author, but I highly recommend this book. It's the third book in the series but all of the books are companion novels. I imagine the first two books will feature characters I've seen in books one and two. Perhaps I will give those two a shot as well!
Rating:
5 stars. I loved this book so much! I am already planning to reread it. I've been in a bit of a reading slump, and I picked this one up on a whim. I'm glad I did because I really enjoyed it. I will definitely return to this series, but for now, I will hunt down some of Renee's other recommendations that feature a gentle healer and an alpha knight!
August 12, 2016
Weird story. The heroine sees what she thinks is a dead body, and is sexually attracted to it. Not the best start.
Not saying more than that, as I don't need any more of the author's "Street Team" members leaving rude comments here because of a personal status update.
Not saying more than that, as I don't need any more of the author's "Street Team" members leaving rude comments here because of a personal status update.
June 25, 2014
Another absolute winner by the talented Amy Jarecki as this is the third book in this fabulous Highland Force Series as you can read this book alone. My recommendation is to read the two prior books as well as each book is as wonderful as the one before as I have 5 star reviews in each one. I personally find it more fun to read this way, but that is a personal choice. You just have more insight to some of the minor and secondary characters and the connections, but it won't effect the main story the reader choice of course. Either way I have enjoyed this series immensely and find Amy Jarecki a rare talent in the Scottish historical romance fiction genre and a pure joy to read!
This book starts off in the year of our lord 1584,in Eilean Fladda, Scotland. The body of Ian MacLeod second son of the former legendary Laird of Raasay Callum after being shot by his evil Uncle Ruari's henchman Rewan. The heroine of this story "Beauty and The Barbarian" is the dark haired, blue eyed beauty is Merrin, daughter of Niall who is the healer. Due to living in such a superstitious time in history added with ugly gossip and fear of the unknown,since birth Merrin has been hidden due to an innocent birthmark. My heart really went out to the heroine and the unfair treatment of her. As she has never left Eilean Flodden a small islet of Eilean Flodden. Niall her father makes sure she keeps the mark hidden by wearing a scarf fearing her death as the prejudice townspeople call it the mark of the devil and would order her burned at the stake or worse. Poor Merrin just wants a friend of her own age and the only other being she comes in contact with is the aging jovial Friar Pat. My favorite man of the cloth whom I first met and loved in Book1 Captured by the Pirate Laird the story of Ian's parents Laird Callum MacLeod and Lady Anne.
When it turns out Ian is not dead both Merrin and her healer Father start healing him round the clock, as even Friar Pat does not recognize him as Ian had been sent to be fostered for the past ten years by his Uncle the ancient evil Chieftain of the isle of Lewis. Also the one who ordered for his head on a platter by his henchman for helping his wife Janet MacKensie escape his abuse. As Ian is a second son, but a good and compassionate man he cannot abide any woman or child to be abused and beaten. For this Rauri will not be satisfied just hearing he is dead he wants proof of his death as well whether it be his head and bones.
My favorite secondary character is Tar Merrin's deerhound dog, who seems to be a war dog that nobody had any idea of. Niall brought him to Merrin one day from the castle to keep her company. Niall did this for when he had to go into town for supplies and leave her alone. Even though she calls him a useless hound at times, but you can feel her everlasting love for her pet and best friend. I did chuckle at a few scenes and was rooting for Tar in some dangerous scenes as well. If your an animal lover like myself , but especially for dogs theses scenes will definitely pull your heart string as it did mine,
As both Ian and Merrin have secrets and are hiding so how can this couple have a happy ending of will they? All Ian had dreamed about was returning to his home Castle Brochel in Raasay and being a good sword arm for his brother who is now The Laird of Raasay. Yet he realizes that now he has put Merrin and her father in immediate danger since they have assisted and helped heal his wound. They go on a merry chase, but Ian knows the sooner they separate the safer his angel and her father will be or will it. As Merrin also feels this happy time is just for a short limited time, as she is marked as a witch, and no one will ever accept her true self, and she could never ask Ian to leave his family and Raasay. Merrin also feels he is too high born and she is too lowborn for anything to happen between to them on a permanent basis more then a distant friendship.
So will they go their separates ways or worse. Will the witch hunters and superstitious townspeople and Clan burn Merrin? They think her dead for the past twenty years, but if find out she lives will they burn the woman with the witches marks as they call it? What about Ian? Will Rauri get his revenge too? The ancient chieftain who is rumored to of sold his soul to the devil for immortality. Will Ruari's get his henchman Reman to retrieve Ian's head on platter to prove he is really dead this time? You will have to read this amazing wonderful book and find the answers.
I read this book in one sitting as I could not put it down and yes it was that magnificent!Each book is a wee bit better, but they all excel in excellence outstanding reads in my opinion that you will be totally dazzled by.
Author Amy Jarecki has turned into one of my favorite authors in the Scottish historical fiction genre and even though you can read each book alone I highly recommend you read the entire series and here is the series order:
Highland Force Series
1. Captured By the Laird Pirate ( Laird Callum & Lady Anne)
2 The Highland Henchman (Bran & Enya)
3. Beauty and The Barbarian. (Ian & Merrin
4. Return of The Highland Laird (Laird Alexander & Jane) Novella Coming Soon
Amy Jarecki is one of those writers you can feel her passion and love of Scotland. If you love Scotland Amy covers here tracks about the history Herbrides and even Eilean Donan Castle and Clan Macrae, plus her, beautiful,description of Alba. OF COURSE WHO DOES NOT LOVE A HIGHLANDER IN A KILT! Plus Amy has a wonderful imagination and gifted storyteller and to me it doesn't get any better then that! I highly recommend "Beauty and The Barbarian" By Amy Jarecki and look forward to future books by this magnificent author!!!~B.
*On a personal note: My Scottish ancestors got a brief part in this book. Even the connection to Clan Mackenzie whom clan Macrae supported and fought under there flag many times. I really enjoyed that, as I rarely have seen Clan Macrae or Eilean Donan Castle mentioned in the fictional books I have read. Had a big smile on my face during that part! I know there are a lot people in the world who also are ancestors of Clan Macrae and Mackenzie another reason I am putting a personal note in my review which I never do. Plus the fact that many friends on Scotland holidays visit Eilean Donan Castle each year which is open to the public if your ever in Kintail Scotland or near Skye, Scotland. :)
August 12, 2018
LMFAOO I can’t believe I read the majority of this mess. And let me tell ya, it was a mess. Y i k e s
May 19, 2014
I enjoyed this book so damned much! I loved Ian, I loved that he's so caring, "Ian's heart twisted into a knot. Christ strike him dead on the spot. Poor Merrin. Poor, giving, selfless Merrin thought herself a demon, a marked woman." The boy is very hands on when it comes to Merrin, "he wanted to show her pleasure, take her places of passion and watch her blossom as she experience all that womanhood had to offer. His hand slid to her buttock. Merrin moaned and pressed against his rock-hard erection." I loved the conversation they had about love making:
"I want ye to show me how a man breeds with a woman."
A low chuckle rumbled from his throat. "Only ye would find the words to attack me most basal desires."
She brushed the hair from his face. "I want ye to."
"Make love to you?"
"Is that what they call it....making love?"
I also loved the fact that Ian couldn't get enough of his woman, "they'd made love all morning, but he still could go another round with Merrin - or forty. "That's no' the only thing I want in your belly." I can't wait to see more from this author. I loved her writing.
"I want ye to show me how a man breeds with a woman."
A low chuckle rumbled from his throat. "Only ye would find the words to attack me most basal desires."
She brushed the hair from his face. "I want ye to."
"Make love to you?"
"Is that what they call it....making love?"
I also loved the fact that Ian couldn't get enough of his woman, "they'd made love all morning, but he still could go another round with Merrin - or forty. "That's no' the only thing I want in your belly." I can't wait to see more from this author. I loved her writing.
June 9, 2014
If I could give this farce negative stars then I would! I haven't read a book this badly scripted in quite sometime. The author tries her best to make the characters like able and I suppose they are to a certain degree but they are also so idiotic that my eyes were rolling every few paragraphs. Ian is a self-professed ladies man, falling in and out of love at the drop of a hat. He saves his young aunt by marriage and spirits her away to her clan because his uncle is an abusive ass. In this endeavor he is shot and washes on shore to Merrin's island. Merrin, the poor girl has been led to believe that she is a witch because she has a mark on her neck. So far the story was good, which is only like page two, then it just went down hill. The two main characters are so weird!! He's-so-hot-I-want-him... She's-so-pretty-but-I-can't-have-her... Ugh!! Nope, nope, nope! Save your sanity and read something better!
May 28, 2014
CAUTION: Get your chores done before you start this book!!!! I didn't put it down until the last page! Fantastic, just fantastic!!!!
There is so much fantastic chemistry between Merrin and Ian in this book and I can't get over how real these characters were! Merrin made me LOL so many times and Ian is hot hot hot. They're an amazing couple together and holy cow could there be any more action in this book! Just when they get a chance to catch their breath (and get on with the kissing already!) they're on the run again for their lives.
Ian is a wonderful protector, and Merrin is no slouch when it comes to defending herself -- I LOVE a character with this much heart and sass!
My only complaint is that Amy doesn't write faster so I have another book to read RIGHT NOW!!!!!!
There is so much fantastic chemistry between Merrin and Ian in this book and I can't get over how real these characters were! Merrin made me LOL so many times and Ian is hot hot hot. They're an amazing couple together and holy cow could there be any more action in this book! Just when they get a chance to catch their breath (and get on with the kissing already!) they're on the run again for their lives.
Ian is a wonderful protector, and Merrin is no slouch when it comes to defending herself -- I LOVE a character with this much heart and sass!
My only complaint is that Amy doesn't write faster so I have another book to read RIGHT NOW!!!!!!
May 31, 2014
Another winner by Amy Jarecki!
Once I stared reading it I couldn't put it down. Amy is one of my absolute favorite writers!
This book is filled with sensual passion and gripping action, Beauty and the Barbarian holds its own as single highhandedly being one of the best historical romances I have read in a very long time. Of course, it WAS written by Amy Jarecki which means she could write the same word over and over and it would be wonderful. Beauty and the Barbarian is a much loved addition to my ever expanding keeper shelf!
I highly recommend this book!
This is one of her best yet! Amy is truly are a master weaver who pulls me under her spell!
Once I stared reading it I couldn't put it down. Amy is one of my absolute favorite writers!
This book is filled with sensual passion and gripping action, Beauty and the Barbarian holds its own as single highhandedly being one of the best historical romances I have read in a very long time. Of course, it WAS written by Amy Jarecki which means she could write the same word over and over and it would be wonderful. Beauty and the Barbarian is a much loved addition to my ever expanding keeper shelf!
I highly recommend this book!
This is one of her best yet! Amy is truly are a master weaver who pulls me under her spell!
May 27, 2014
A sweet and enjoyable historical romance, Beauty and the Barbarian was a wonderful read. I really liked this book. It was a lovely addition to a great series.
Merrin was a lovely heroine. Despite the fear and hatred she got from people because of a mark on her neck, she was a strong and kind woman. She was a very sympathetic character, because of all the hatred she endured from almost everyone who saw her mark. It made it even more remarkable that she was still determined to help everyone she could. And, she was tougher than she appeared. I really liked her. I thought she was a great character.
Ian was also wonderful. He was a very kind and compassionate man, the kind who couldn't turn his back on a person in need and wouldn't let superstition dictate his judgement of others. Not to mention the fact that he was quite a formidable opponent if you managed to get on his bad side. He was such a sweetie, and I totally adored him.
The romance was great. Merrin and Ian were perfect together, such a sweet couple. And, the chemistry between them was sizzling with some heat to go along with it. I thought they were wonderful together.
The plot was good. The only weak part of this book was that there were some parts that dragged and it kept me from being totally hooked. However, I was still kept interested the entire way through. There were a few twists along the way that kept things interesting. I enjoyed the story and the ending was perfect.
Beauty and the Barbarian was a wonderful historical romance. I really liked this book and I really enjoyed reading it. It was a delight of a read. Romance lovers, this is a book you'll want to check out.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Merrin was a lovely heroine. Despite the fear and hatred she got from people because of a mark on her neck, she was a strong and kind woman. She was a very sympathetic character, because of all the hatred she endured from almost everyone who saw her mark. It made it even more remarkable that she was still determined to help everyone she could. And, she was tougher than she appeared. I really liked her. I thought she was a great character.
Ian was also wonderful. He was a very kind and compassionate man, the kind who couldn't turn his back on a person in need and wouldn't let superstition dictate his judgement of others. Not to mention the fact that he was quite a formidable opponent if you managed to get on his bad side. He was such a sweetie, and I totally adored him.
The romance was great. Merrin and Ian were perfect together, such a sweet couple. And, the chemistry between them was sizzling with some heat to go along with it. I thought they were wonderful together.
The plot was good. The only weak part of this book was that there were some parts that dragged and it kept me from being totally hooked. However, I was still kept interested the entire way through. There were a few twists along the way that kept things interesting. I enjoyed the story and the ending was perfect.
Beauty and the Barbarian was a wonderful historical romance. I really liked this book and I really enjoyed reading it. It was a delight of a read. Romance lovers, this is a book you'll want to check out.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
August 15, 2015
A beautiful, exciting, captivating story.
This story is so much more than a man meeting a woman. I was captivated the first page and taken back in time with exquisite detail of the magical and superstitious Hebrides Isles of Scotland. A beautiful young woman hides away from the rest of the world because she is declared 'marked'. In a time and place where old superstitions truly are a matter of life and death, Merrin lives her entire life in a small cottage with her father. Merrin works daily, learning her father's trade of healing. I completely enjoyed learning the historical use of herbs and cures for ailments, as I went on this fantastic adventure, starting from the moment Ian MacLeod washes ashore and instantly becomes an intricate part of Merrin's world. As Merrin aids her father in nursing Ian's badly injured body back to health, Merrin see's, feel's and discovers the dream of possibilities she never dared to dream before. Ian MacLeod awakes in horrific pain from a musket wound in his back and finds himself gazing upon the most beautiful woman. Not knowing where he is, or how he's even alive, that doesn't stop Ian from instantly desiring the woman his eyes rest upon. This story is filled with excitement, suspense, intrigue and yes, a beautiful and passionate love story.
A must read. I loved every minute of it and didn't want the book to end.
This story is so much more than a man meeting a woman. I was captivated the first page and taken back in time with exquisite detail of the magical and superstitious Hebrides Isles of Scotland. A beautiful young woman hides away from the rest of the world because she is declared 'marked'. In a time and place where old superstitions truly are a matter of life and death, Merrin lives her entire life in a small cottage with her father. Merrin works daily, learning her father's trade of healing. I completely enjoyed learning the historical use of herbs and cures for ailments, as I went on this fantastic adventure, starting from the moment Ian MacLeod washes ashore and instantly becomes an intricate part of Merrin's world. As Merrin aids her father in nursing Ian's badly injured body back to health, Merrin see's, feel's and discovers the dream of possibilities she never dared to dream before. Ian MacLeod awakes in horrific pain from a musket wound in his back and finds himself gazing upon the most beautiful woman. Not knowing where he is, or how he's even alive, that doesn't stop Ian from instantly desiring the woman his eyes rest upon. This story is filled with excitement, suspense, intrigue and yes, a beautiful and passionate love story.
A must read. I loved every minute of it and didn't want the book to end.
July 19, 2014
Third Book In The Series.
This story was amazing! This is the third book in the series. It is about Ian MacLeod, the second son of the late Callum MacLeod and Lady Anne. Having lived and fostered with his uncle Ruari, he was a mighty warrior. He could not stand the abuse his uncle had inflicted upon his wife, so he rescues her at his own peril. He washes a shore and a beautiful lass discovers him.
The lass, Merrien, has lived in seclusion with her da. Her mother died while giving birth to her. She is deemed a witch because she was born with a red birthmark and her mother did not survive her birth. She finds Ian who washes a shore and from there, their journey begins. The passion ignites from the pages. I loved how descriptive the scenes were.
This is one of this author's best. I have read now all three books in this series and this is by far her best. The author continues to put out great stories.
I would highly recommend this book to you. You will not be disappointed, you will want to continue this saga. A fabulous read.
This story was amazing! This is the third book in the series. It is about Ian MacLeod, the second son of the late Callum MacLeod and Lady Anne. Having lived and fostered with his uncle Ruari, he was a mighty warrior. He could not stand the abuse his uncle had inflicted upon his wife, so he rescues her at his own peril. He washes a shore and a beautiful lass discovers him.
The lass, Merrien, has lived in seclusion with her da. Her mother died while giving birth to her. She is deemed a witch because she was born with a red birthmark and her mother did not survive her birth. She finds Ian who washes a shore and from there, their journey begins. The passion ignites from the pages. I loved how descriptive the scenes were.
This is one of this author's best. I have read now all three books in this series and this is by far her best. The author continues to put out great stories.
I would highly recommend this book to you. You will not be disappointed, you will want to continue this saga. A fabulous read.
August 20, 2014
Another great book from this series. Truly a wonderful series if you love highlander romances. Characters are very well formed and stories are just great! Highly recommended. Hope this series goes on longer!!
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June 14, 2014Author and street team drama over a 1 star review that someone else posted. No thanks.
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April 2, 2022
I can't even imagine being shunned just because you have a birthmark but that's how superstitious folks were back in the medieval days. A birthmark symbolized evil and you were considered a witch!! My heart really went out to Merrin and I felt so badly for what she'd been through. The best thing for her was for Ian to come into her life but there was still many struggles to get through.
I love Amy Jarecki's style of writing and this book is no exception. As soon as I start reading one of her stories, I get instantly lost in the world she writes about. Her characters are always so interesting and the action never ceases. A solid 5 stars from me!!
I love Amy Jarecki's style of writing and this book is no exception. As soon as I start reading one of her stories, I get instantly lost in the world she writes about. Her characters are always so interesting and the action never ceases. A solid 5 stars from me!!
August 9, 2018
Mom and I had fun listening to the delightful story. It had a fun adventure about it but it felt like it was two stories in one, with a little thread connecting them, more than it was one official story. Mom also thought the heroine was a little to willing to run away rather than keep calm or at least talk to people at the end of the book. Over all though it was a good book and a enjoyable listen.
July 1, 2021
This was a very interesting historical romance with great characters and a wonderful story about acceptance. The plot was exciting and suspenseful, but I felt it was a tad too long. At times, I felt I was skipping ahead to get to the good parts. The bad parts for me were the fight scenes.
If you don't mind fight scenes or some violence in your historical romance, then this one may be for you!
If you don't mind fight scenes or some violence in your historical romance, then this one may be for you!
August 18, 2015
Cursed as a witch Merrin have been kept hidden and secret from the rest of the clan from Rasaay. Alone and sad, she struggles through her days on Fladda, just around the corner of Rasaay. But all of that is about to change. Merrin just found a man badly injured on the beach. Merrin nature immediately kicks in and she and her father gets the nearly dead scot into their small cottage. Her healer father does the honorable thing and saves the young warriors life, hoping it would not cost them their lives.
Ian, awakes with the voice of a goddess, a goddess that is washing him. He has never seen such beauty and believes her to be an angel. As his strength returns, he finds his angel more alluring then even a goddess. But he also discover the reason why such beauty was kept will hidden on a small island. She wears the mark of the devil - the witch his clan whispered about. But Ian finds that the dreadful whispers was all but rumor, and that this beauty was as kind and beautiful inside as outside. But with his enemy hunting him down, did he place her and her father at deaths door? Ian refuses to let his enemy get their hands on the woman that stole his heart with her kindness.
Oh my, this series is just getting better and better! Holly cow, this was good! Did I read it in one sitting? You bet your ass I did! An amazingly kind and innocent woman, begging to be loved and accepted by the world. A warrior falling head over heels and then refuses to let his enemy gets their hands on her. Swoon, Swoon and double swoon. Amy once again created some amazing characters that stole my heart within the first two chapters. My heart broke for poor Merrin and how badly she wanted the world to except her. Even more when the clan discovers her, and tries to hurt her. There was a few places when I wanted Ian to beat the crap out of a few people. Ian of course was the perfect gentleman, most worthy of dreaming over a few nights. The plot is thrilling, fast past and keep you glued to the pages. Amy did it again, another master piece just for us. Her talent to capture a reader and just taking you away on amazing adventure, is just bloody amazing. I was a bit sad when read Calum passed away, I had to quickly grab a tissue and damp away the heartache. If you haven’t started to read this series, you are missing out on an amazing series! I can easy put this at the number one spot for Historical Romance series I have read so far, beating even the Highland Series of KMM. It’s just that bloody amazing! I can’t wait to read Alexander’s story! Amy well done, well bloody done!
January 30, 2015
Oh. My. God. I didn’t read Amy Jarecki’s Beauty and the Barbarian before I listened to the audiobook. I had listened to Captured By the Pirate by Amy Jarecki, and really enjoyed that listen. But I can only say this was such an experience! The story in and of itself, was more than I anticipated and Brad Wills drove it above the top of the charts! What an amazing story and production!
So what makes a great story? And why do I love the historical romance with a medieval sub-genre? We women love to be strong, let’s face it. I do. But when a man steps up to the plate and makes life more bearable, willingly and with love protect and cherish, I’m willing to lean into him and take the warmth and comfort where I can. Does that make me weak? Nope, I don’t believe so. Does it makes me a woman who can appreciate the maleness and need of a man to protect his own? Yes, I do believe it does.
Amy Jarecki has written a wonderful and compelling story that draws the best out of the feminine gender and the best of man when he’s honorable and compassionate, weaving a story that captures the heart and more. Ian is just such a man and I could hug him around the block and back (if there were such things as blocks in 1500’s!) I absolutely adore Gar and his warrior-like protection of Merrin. This is a story that will long remain with me.
I am remiss to not have read The Henchman, book 2 before this one, which I shall forthwith remedy, however, it didn't detract from book 3.
Brad Wills has again amazed me as a narrator. I listened to his narration of The White Lord of Wellsbourne by Kathryn Le Veque and was not disappointed. Here he makes me forget that it’s a man narrating this story, and even forget it is a narration! I am a hairs-breath from Ian and Merrin. He is so good with the female voice and with all the voices he’s able to produce, I am truly amazed.
When the people of the Keep became ill, I truly felt they were. The evil women who were ready to burn the ‘so-called’ witch cackled with malevolence; Brad Wills illuminated their evil, I could feel their presence next to me. How can he produce all those voices from his own?
Amy Jerecki is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. If you have the chance to sample her work, don't hesitate. If you are a lover of historical romance and in particular the sub-genre of medieval stories, make sure to include her in your reads.
So what makes a great story? And why do I love the historical romance with a medieval sub-genre? We women love to be strong, let’s face it. I do. But when a man steps up to the plate and makes life more bearable, willingly and with love protect and cherish, I’m willing to lean into him and take the warmth and comfort where I can. Does that make me weak? Nope, I don’t believe so. Does it makes me a woman who can appreciate the maleness and need of a man to protect his own? Yes, I do believe it does.
Amy Jarecki has written a wonderful and compelling story that draws the best out of the feminine gender and the best of man when he’s honorable and compassionate, weaving a story that captures the heart and more. Ian is just such a man and I could hug him around the block and back (if there were such things as blocks in 1500’s!) I absolutely adore Gar and his warrior-like protection of Merrin. This is a story that will long remain with me.
I am remiss to not have read The Henchman, book 2 before this one, which I shall forthwith remedy, however, it didn't detract from book 3.
Brad Wills has again amazed me as a narrator. I listened to his narration of The White Lord of Wellsbourne by Kathryn Le Veque and was not disappointed. Here he makes me forget that it’s a man narrating this story, and even forget it is a narration! I am a hairs-breath from Ian and Merrin. He is so good with the female voice and with all the voices he’s able to produce, I am truly amazed.
When the people of the Keep became ill, I truly felt they were. The evil women who were ready to burn the ‘so-called’ witch cackled with malevolence; Brad Wills illuminated their evil, I could feel their presence next to me. How can he produce all those voices from his own?
Amy Jerecki is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. If you have the chance to sample her work, don't hesitate. If you are a lover of historical romance and in particular the sub-genre of medieval stories, make sure to include her in your reads.
July 17, 2014
Let me start by saying I love her books. She can write just about anything and I think she would suck me in. This book was so good. I liked that in the end everyone had to eat their words. How anyone would allow anyone else to be treated like this is beyond me, but it happens even to this day. This is a story about Ian MacLoed trying to earn his place back in his clan. His brother, The clan chief, doesn't know what is going on but learns through sources. Ian is on the run from his uncle. His uncle has a death sentence for him, for taking his bride and sending her back to her clan. Thus embarrassing him. Men and their pride, huh... The Heroine is Merrin, and she was born with a birthmark. Since her mother died due to childbirth sickness everyone blamed the baby, so she and her father lived on a small island away from the clan. She was considered the devils spawn, a witch. Ian ends up on the small island almost dead. I read this book in less than 24 hours. Yes it is THAT good. It was action, redemption, understanding and forgiveness. Learning how much one person can take and give. I really like this book and cannot wait for the next one. I wish only one thing for this book., That it never ended. I just wanted to keep reading. I am not sugar coating it or trying to earn bonus points. I really did not want this book to end. I wanted to know everything about them and there future. If you have a chance to read her series. Don't just pick up book 1, get them all. It will be so worth it.
December 11, 2015
ok i'm only 3.5hrs in and i HAVE to say. There were a few things said that made me say "WHAT?!" But i don't remember so i guess while it was a wtf moment i kept it moving. I will say that while I usually enjoy Brad Wills performances this time it's pissing me off. His scottish brogue for the characters (men and women) was so thick it reminded me of the differences between a "proper" southern accent and then the backwoods hick shit you expect from an poor encampment of pot growers in the mountains. NIGHT AND DAY. There were times when I had NO IDEA what the characters were saying.
back to the book....
ok all done. le sigh. I've liked the other Amy Jarecki books I heard but this book just left me wanting. The two main characters were so freaking horny all they thought about was touching the other one and sex. The whole witch thing annoyed me but **shrugs** i guess it's a part of the time.
This book just left me wanting.
back to the book....
ok all done. le sigh. I've liked the other Amy Jarecki books I heard but this book just left me wanting. The two main characters were so freaking horny all they thought about was touching the other one and sex. The whole witch thing annoyed me but **shrugs** i guess it's a part of the time.
This book just left me wanting.
June 19, 2014
PERFECT BLEND of KILTED HIGHLANDERS, NON-STOP ACTION, HUMOR, and ROMANCE!
BEAUTY AND THE BARBARIAN is another Scottish storytelling masterpiece by Amy Jarrecki! This is the third book in her Highland Force series of sexy highlander historical romances. BEAUTY AND THE BARBARIAN can easily be read as a standalone as the story stands on its own. However, to exponentially increase your reading pleasure, I would highly recommend that the series be read in order as each have been awesome reads with interconnected characters.
My full review has been posted to Reading Between the Wines Book Club. Check it out here: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
BEAUTY AND THE BARBARIAN is another Scottish storytelling masterpiece by Amy Jarrecki! This is the third book in her Highland Force series of sexy highlander historical romances. BEAUTY AND THE BARBARIAN can easily be read as a standalone as the story stands on its own. However, to exponentially increase your reading pleasure, I would highly recommend that the series be read in order as each have been awesome reads with interconnected characters.
My full review has been posted to Reading Between the Wines Book Club. Check it out here: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
September 24, 2014
H: Ian
h: Merrin
This book is the 3rd book of the Highland Force Series, but I haven't read the other too and i wasn't lacking any info so you could totally read this book alone.
This is another first time author for me. I really liked her writing style. I think I may have found a new author to add to my short list of must read books.
So lets start. Ian is kinda a bad A$$. A henchman ruffs him up and think he dead. When Merrin finds him washed ashore she thinks the same thing.
This is their story of how they come together in a bad time and find love while flee from a evil Henchman who wants them dead.
Like I said great read! I recommend to all Romance readers but especially to all Historical romance reader!
Well Done!
h: Merrin
This book is the 3rd book of the Highland Force Series, but I haven't read the other too and i wasn't lacking any info so you could totally read this book alone.
This is another first time author for me. I really liked her writing style. I think I may have found a new author to add to my short list of must read books.
So lets start. Ian is kinda a bad A$$. A henchman ruffs him up and think he dead. When Merrin finds him washed ashore she thinks the same thing.
This is their story of how they come together in a bad time and find love while flee from a evil Henchman who wants them dead.
Like I said great read! I recommend to all Romance readers but especially to all Historical romance reader!
Well Done!
July 13, 2014
Highland barbarian that can come a knocking on my door any day of the week. Ian MacLeod & Merrin joining provides intense action, extreme drama, fiery passion, and sensuality out of there time. On this isle for twenty years, Merri felt as if she was not worthy of anyone to love her, much less to see her. She has the heart of an angel and the spirit of one. Ian is not the total beast one makes him out to be. There are many sides to each of them and they allow each to see more than expect of the other.
Jarecki can write me more Scottish Highlander Historical romances any day and any time. I will make every effort to make sure I attain it an devour the read completely.
NetGalley ARC read.
Next book bring it own. Just have to be patient.
Jarecki can write me more Scottish Highlander Historical romances any day and any time. I will make every effort to make sure I attain it an devour the read completely.
NetGalley ARC read.
Next book bring it own. Just have to be patient.
June 9, 2014
A book of love as there are so many, the two characters are not bad but in the end they are far from being unforgettable. The history of the brand of Satan also has seemed to me a bit too overused in a blurred plot.
Un libro d'amore come ce ne sono tanti, i due personaggi non sono male ma alla fine nemmeno indimenticabili. La storia del marchio di satana inoltre, mi é sembrata leggermente troppo sfruttata per spiegare una trama un pochino labile.
THANKS TO NETGALLEY AND RUPTURE BOOKS FOR THE PREVIEW!
Un libro d'amore come ce ne sono tanti, i due personaggi non sono male ma alla fine nemmeno indimenticabili. La storia del marchio di satana inoltre, mi é sembrata leggermente troppo sfruttata per spiegare una trama un pochino labile.
THANKS TO NETGALLEY AND RUPTURE BOOKS FOR THE PREVIEW!
August 7, 2014
This novel just had all the right elements: a fantastic story, and characters that offer a depth that I look for in HR novels. Jarecki has a way of playing with my emotions... one moment I'm smiling, the next I'm feeling sadness or horror. Her characters may be in the past with issues that are no longer pertinent today, but substitute them for something more current: AIDS, religion, politics, and those themes come back to life. We'll always be fearful of what we're afraid of; Jarecki hits that straight on the nail with this novel.
June 20, 2014
What?!?! Calum is dead?!?! Okay I know she doesn't stick with the same time, but talk about breaking my heart! Well, I must say at least she found me a new hot highland man to gawk over! I honestly can't think of one negative thing to say about this book, other than the fact that I have to wait for more!!!!
June 15, 2014
Ian is an immensely loveable hero and Merrin is an amazing heroine, especially when she's determined to save him regardless of any personal cost. Granted, it's the third in the series and you probably should read them in order, but the book can stand alone. Still, this is a great addition to the Highland Force series and I can't wait for the next one! What an adventure!
August 31, 2014
Highland romance at the finest! “Beauty and the Barbarian” brings the reader into the story from the first paragraph and holds them fast until the very end.
Read full review in the 2014 September issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2014 September issue of InD’tale Magazine.
November 17, 2014
Nice, a Scottish love story.;)
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