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The Devil Wears Tartan
Some couples are a match made in heaven.
Moira and Kenzie are convinced the only place they’re a match is in hell.
Raised as the shining prodigies of warring highland dance schools, the two grew up with blaring bagpipes as the backing track for a feud that took them all the way to the world championships.
Moira could never keep Kenzie’s icy glares from getting under her skin, and Kenzie could never hold back an eye-roll as she watched the crowds fawn over her rival’s happy-go-lucky charm.
Starting college has forced both women to hang up their kilts, but when their local highland dance association announces a scholarship for a life-changing amount of money, they find themselves back onstage for one last season.
The stakes are higher than ever, but between shooting daggers at each other’s backs and insults at each other’s faces, their eyes start lingering, their hearts start pounding, and the sparks begin to build into a fire neither of them can control.
Hell could freeze before either woman would admit their attraction, but that won’t stop them from using it to play dirty—and getting caught in the crossfire of their feelings along the way.
After all, sometimes the devil wears tartan.
The Devil Wears Tartan is a New Adult, F/F dramedy from Katia Rose featuring more bagpipes than anyone asked for and two fiercely competitive heroines caught in a sizzling shift from enemies to lovers.
Moira and Kenzie are convinced the only place they’re a match is in hell.
Raised as the shining prodigies of warring highland dance schools, the two grew up with blaring bagpipes as the backing track for a feud that took them all the way to the world championships.
Moira could never keep Kenzie’s icy glares from getting under her skin, and Kenzie could never hold back an eye-roll as she watched the crowds fawn over her rival’s happy-go-lucky charm.
Starting college has forced both women to hang up their kilts, but when their local highland dance association announces a scholarship for a life-changing amount of money, they find themselves back onstage for one last season.
The stakes are higher than ever, but between shooting daggers at each other’s backs and insults at each other’s faces, their eyes start lingering, their hearts start pounding, and the sparks begin to build into a fire neither of them can control.
Hell could freeze before either woman would admit their attraction, but that won’t stop them from using it to play dirty—and getting caught in the crossfire of their feelings along the way.
After all, sometimes the devil wears tartan.
The Devil Wears Tartan is a New Adult, F/F dramedy from Katia Rose featuring more bagpipes than anyone asked for and two fiercely competitive heroines caught in a sizzling shift from enemies to lovers.
358 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 16, 2022
226 people are currently reading
3505 people want to read
About the author
Katia Rose
25 books991 followersKatia Rose is not much of a Pina Colada person, but she does like getting caught in the rain. She loves to write romances that make her readers laugh, cry, and swoon (preferably in that order). She’s rarely found without a cup of tea nearby, and she’s more than a little obsessed with tiny plants. Katia is proudly bisexual and has a passion for writing about love in all its forms.
Join the Club Katia community and grab your romance freebies! katiarose.com/club-katia
Join the Club Katia community and grab your romance freebies! katiarose.com/club-katia
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 272 reviews
September 25, 2022
TW//
She makes my whole body light up in ways it’s never done for anyone else. She makes me feel like the sun and the sky and the stars all at once. She makes me feel limitless, even when so much of the world has tried to tell me just how limited I am.
This is only my second book by Katia Rose, but I already feel like she’s slowly becoming one of my favorite authors. She has a way with romances that make you root for the lovers from the first page and I love how her books have some flirty fun while also adding in some more serious topics. Katia’s writing style is so easy to get sucked into. I fly through her books really quickly and I can’t wait to read more of her books in the future.
My favorite part about this book was Kenzie and Moira’s relationship. Their bantering was super fun to read and they had great chemistry from the first chapter. Their relationship had its ups-and-downs and they had to learn to trust each other, but I was captivated by their romance throughout the whole story.
This book also had a great relationship between Moira and her mother. I’m so used to reading stories where parents are out of the picture, but Moira’s mom is a prevalent character in this story and she provides support for Moira when Moira needs it. It was so sweet to see this supportive relationship play out on the page.
There was one conversation in this book that I loved in particular. It occured between Moira and Kenzie where Moira reveals that she’s not 100% sure if lesbian is the right label for herself and Kenzie voices her support for Moira. That whole conversation was something that I felt seen by. I still don’t know which label fits my romantic attraction the best, so to have representation of somoene who’s not entirely sure which label describes them best means a lot to me.
The only downside to this book and the reason why I had to dock a star off my rating is the third act conflict. Third act conflicts happen in nearly every romance book, but I was pissed with how this conflict played out. A lot of things that were said are things that you can’t just go back from. I’ve had some of those things said to me and it took me ages to recover. Yet somehow they get back together in just a few short weeks? I get it, okay? It’s a romance. Every reader wants that happily every after. I just wish there would’ve been more time between the fight and them getting back together or I wish the third act conflict was a little less harsh. I’m not going to spoil exactly what went down, but I will say that Moira deserves better. If Moira were a real person, I’d protect her at all costs. Also, if this ever gets made into a movie, I really want Eliot Salt from Fate: The Winx Saga to play Moira. She’s who I pictured as Moira while I was reading this book.
Overall I’d really recommend this book. Besides the one issue I had with this story, this book was a fantastic read. It’s on Kindle Unlimited (like most of Katia’s other books), so if you have Kindle Unlimited, give this one a try. You won’t be disappointed.
She makes my whole body light up in ways it’s never done for anyone else. She makes me feel like the sun and the sky and the stars all at once. She makes me feel limitless, even when so much of the world has tried to tell me just how limited I am.
This is only my second book by Katia Rose, but I already feel like she’s slowly becoming one of my favorite authors. She has a way with romances that make you root for the lovers from the first page and I love how her books have some flirty fun while also adding in some more serious topics. Katia’s writing style is so easy to get sucked into. I fly through her books really quickly and I can’t wait to read more of her books in the future.
My favorite part about this book was Kenzie and Moira’s relationship. Their bantering was super fun to read and they had great chemistry from the first chapter. Their relationship had its ups-and-downs and they had to learn to trust each other, but I was captivated by their romance throughout the whole story.
This book also had a great relationship between Moira and her mother. I’m so used to reading stories where parents are out of the picture, but Moira’s mom is a prevalent character in this story and she provides support for Moira when Moira needs it. It was so sweet to see this supportive relationship play out on the page.
There was one conversation in this book that I loved in particular. It occured between Moira and Kenzie where Moira reveals that she’s not 100% sure if lesbian is the right label for herself and Kenzie voices her support for Moira. That whole conversation was something that I felt seen by. I still don’t know which label fits my romantic attraction the best, so to have representation of somoene who’s not entirely sure which label describes them best means a lot to me.
The only downside to this book and the reason why I had to dock a star off my rating is the third act conflict. Third act conflicts happen in nearly every romance book, but I was pissed with how this conflict played out. A lot of things that were said are things that you can’t just go back from. I’ve had some of those things said to me and it took me ages to recover. Yet somehow they get back together in just a few short weeks? I get it, okay? It’s a romance. Every reader wants that happily every after. I just wish there would’ve been more time between the fight and them getting back together or I wish the third act conflict was a little less harsh. I’m not going to spoil exactly what went down, but I will say that Moira deserves better. If Moira were a real person, I’d protect her at all costs. Also, if this ever gets made into a movie, I really want Eliot Salt from Fate: The Winx Saga to play Moira. She’s who I pictured as Moira while I was reading this book.
Overall I’d really recommend this book. Besides the one issue I had with this story, this book was a fantastic read. It’s on Kindle Unlimited (like most of Katia’s other books), so if you have Kindle Unlimited, give this one a try. You won’t be disappointed.
March 9, 2022
A story about highland dances and self-acceptance.
I honestly didn't know what Scottish Highland Dances were and had to youtube it to find out, and hey, they're pretty cool!
Kenzie and Moira are about twenty, which places this book under the New Adult label. Both women have an established reputation in the highland dance circles but the route they take to get there is very different. Moira is the golden child whereas Kenzie has a much tougher background and has risen above all odds to get there and they have some sort of rivalry going on that is fueled by envy on both sides. This story is about a journey of self-acceptance as much as it's about two rivals falling in love, and I love that Kenzie has a strong growth arc. I also really enjoyed watching Kenzie and Moira together. There's some sexual tension between them and good chemistry.
Katia Rose writes really decent young adult / new adult novels, a genre I don't particularly fancy but absolutely don't mind when it comes to authors like Rose.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I honestly didn't know what Scottish Highland Dances were and had to youtube it to find out, and hey, they're pretty cool!
Kenzie and Moira are about twenty, which places this book under the New Adult label. Both women have an established reputation in the highland dance circles but the route they take to get there is very different. Moira is the golden child whereas Kenzie has a much tougher background and has risen above all odds to get there and they have some sort of rivalry going on that is fueled by envy on both sides. This story is about a journey of self-acceptance as much as it's about two rivals falling in love, and I love that Kenzie has a strong growth arc. I also really enjoyed watching Kenzie and Moira together. There's some sexual tension between them and good chemistry.
Katia Rose writes really decent young adult / new adult novels, a genre I don't particularly fancy but absolutely don't mind when it comes to authors like Rose.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 22, 2022
Moira Murray and Kenzie Andrianakis have known each other since childhood and have been rivals almost from the start. Moira was born in the Scottish Highland Dance scene, her mother the founder of one of the best schools in Ottawa. At twenty, she tries to juggle college and teaching at her mom’s school, after an ill-fated gap year and the stop of her dancing career due to an injury. Kenzie came late – relatively speaking, at eight – to Highland Dance but hard work and mentoring brought her to the top. When a scholarship is announced for a college-aged dancer, both young women apply. Moira sees it as a way to boost her self-confidence and sense of worth. For Kenzie, the scholarship is synonymous with a real future, despite her mom’s depression and the financial issues they face.
As they meet again two years after their last encounter, Moira and Kenzie slowly come to understand that there is more to their rivalry than meets the eye. Life has thrown them together again and again, and maybe the reason isn’t competing against each other. As Moira puts it, there’s this “constant pull between [them], like life has circled [them] in the same rubber band, and every step [they] take away from each other just builds and builds the tension as [they] wait to see who’ll be the first to snap right back into place”.
From the very first pages, you know how the story is going to go because it’s a romance set in a competitive environment and MC1 and MC2 are going to fight and argue until the angry tension transforms into sexual tension and they go from enemies to lovers. Katia Rose’s talent lies in her capacity to turn this very basic – albeit lovely – plot into something more complex and moving.
Character growth is paramount in New Adult fiction and Rose writes it well. Over the course of the story, Kenzie and Moira learn about each other, with each other, and about themselves. They learn to love and to support and that love and support start with oneself.
I received a copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
As they meet again two years after their last encounter, Moira and Kenzie slowly come to understand that there is more to their rivalry than meets the eye. Life has thrown them together again and again, and maybe the reason isn’t competing against each other. As Moira puts it, there’s this “constant pull between [them], like life has circled [them] in the same rubber band, and every step [they] take away from each other just builds and builds the tension as [they] wait to see who’ll be the first to snap right back into place”.
From the very first pages, you know how the story is going to go because it’s a romance set in a competitive environment and MC1 and MC2 are going to fight and argue until the angry tension transforms into sexual tension and they go from enemies to lovers. Katia Rose’s talent lies in her capacity to turn this very basic – albeit lovely – plot into something more complex and moving.
Character growth is paramount in New Adult fiction and Rose writes it well. Over the course of the story, Kenzie and Moira learn about each other, with each other, and about themselves. They learn to love and to support and that love and support start with oneself.
I received a copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 21, 2022
Katia Rose has been on my automatic author-to-read list since I’ve read her novel Catch and Cradle. I especially like the Canadian settings and her approach to new adult romance, with characters who are still trying to figure out their place in life.
Moira and Kenzie have been rivals since they were little girls competing in opposite highland dance schools. Now that they are in their early twenties, they find themselves opposite each other again fighting to win a big college scholarship. But as they spend their time plotting against each other, they also realise that underneath their mutual hate hides a lingering attraction…
This is an enemies-to-lovers new adult romance. Despite the title, this book has nothing to do with The Devil Wears Prada, maybe with the exception of the presence of an ice queen. But because the novel is written in first person from the point of view of both main characters, the reader realises quickly after being in Kenzie’s headspace, that behind her cool facade there’s more to her than you can initially think.
The book has the background of a Scottish Highland dance environment which is quite unusual. I don’t recall reading any sapphic fiction featuring this dance before, at least with that much prominence. I liked the way the author described the dance competition setting, it looked very much like the Irish dancing competitions that I used to take my son to, the outfit preparations, the nervous excitement before the competition, the parents’ pressure for their children to win, etc. Everything surrounding the dance competition world sounded very plausible and realistic.
Despite the initial levity of the meet-cute and the interactions between the mains, this is not a light read. The Devil Wears Tartan deals with difficult issues such as depression, substance abuse, family pressure and life choices. In the fashion of an opposite-attracts romance, Moira and Kenzie couldn’t be more different, but the story goes beyond the superficial opposing traits to reveal the reasons behind them. Both characters experienced very different family situations and the beauty of the story is how each of them tries to rise beyond that and meet in the middle. It’s very easy to empathise with both of them and root for a happy resolution. The chemistry development from hate to love is very well done too.
If you are looking for a new adult enemies-to-lovers romance with a good side of angst and lovely characters, this one is for you. No need to be a dance fan. 4.5 stars.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Moira and Kenzie have been rivals since they were little girls competing in opposite highland dance schools. Now that they are in their early twenties, they find themselves opposite each other again fighting to win a big college scholarship. But as they spend their time plotting against each other, they also realise that underneath their mutual hate hides a lingering attraction…
This is an enemies-to-lovers new adult romance. Despite the title, this book has nothing to do with The Devil Wears Prada, maybe with the exception of the presence of an ice queen. But because the novel is written in first person from the point of view of both main characters, the reader realises quickly after being in Kenzie’s headspace, that behind her cool facade there’s more to her than you can initially think.
The book has the background of a Scottish Highland dance environment which is quite unusual. I don’t recall reading any sapphic fiction featuring this dance before, at least with that much prominence. I liked the way the author described the dance competition setting, it looked very much like the Irish dancing competitions that I used to take my son to, the outfit preparations, the nervous excitement before the competition, the parents’ pressure for their children to win, etc. Everything surrounding the dance competition world sounded very plausible and realistic.
Despite the initial levity of the meet-cute and the interactions between the mains, this is not a light read. The Devil Wears Tartan deals with difficult issues such as depression, substance abuse, family pressure and life choices. In the fashion of an opposite-attracts romance, Moira and Kenzie couldn’t be more different, but the story goes beyond the superficial opposing traits to reveal the reasons behind them. Both characters experienced very different family situations and the beauty of the story is how each of them tries to rise beyond that and meet in the middle. It’s very easy to empathise with both of them and root for a happy resolution. The chemistry development from hate to love is very well done too.
If you are looking for a new adult enemies-to-lovers romance with a good side of angst and lovely characters, this one is for you. No need to be a dance fan. 4.5 stars.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
unfinished
May 10, 2022I gave up on this at around 15%. Mostly because of Kenzie. Kenzie doesn't make sense on a couple of levels and the ones she does make sense on bother me.
The first is why she is even into Highland dance. She doesn't love it so much as she just got competitive with Moira. This is particularly glossed over for her youth where her family had no money so were all those expenses are just waived by the top-end dance school she attended? Why? And why don't we see more connection there when she's otherwise so alone?
But what's really killing me is how Kenzie is one of those characters who does the mean things and then thinks "I don't even know why I'm being so mean". And that just never works for me. I know that people don't always know the reasons why they do things. But they always think they do. That's kind of what the ego is for; justifying all the stupid things we do on impulse. The problem is that the mean things she does are bad enough that any of the excuses she could tell herself would likely be off-putting to readers.
But I could have put up with that, probably. I realized I was done the more Kenzie interacted with her mother. Depression is awful, and having someone who doesn't want to get better is killer. Kenzie has to babysit her mother and it's destroying her own prospects along the way. And I hate this as a thing. The purpose of parents is to give their kids the best shot they can at starting their own lives. Sacrificing children for the sake of their parents is abhorrent to me on pretty much every level. Yes, mom is alone (because she has driven everyone else in her life away). And that degree of pathetic is heartbreaking. But sacrificing a child to that pit is just wrong. There's no good answer to someone self-destructive enough that they literally don't care about basic life maintenance. But while I don't know any good answers, one of the worst is making children fill the black void.
I get the sense that taking care of mom is supposed to make up for the unsourced meanness Kenzie shows to Moira. Like, look how compassionate she is for taking care of the useless person. Like that balances the crappy treatment of a good person. But I found both annoying and that pushed me away from being able to pick this up after putting it down a bit.
I'm not going to rate this because my reaction to the mom thing is my own hangup and one I'm reluctant to put on the book. I'm sad it didn't work out because Moira was just lovely and I'd have loved seeing her come out of her self-judgment and finding confidence (which was clearly her character arc—and I mean that in a good way).
The first is why she is even into Highland dance. She doesn't love it so much as she just got competitive with Moira. This is particularly glossed over for her youth where her family had no money so were all those expenses are just waived by the top-end dance school she attended? Why? And why don't we see more connection there when she's otherwise so alone?
But what's really killing me is how Kenzie is one of those characters who does the mean things and then thinks "I don't even know why I'm being so mean". And that just never works for me. I know that people don't always know the reasons why they do things. But they always think they do. That's kind of what the ego is for; justifying all the stupid things we do on impulse. The problem is that the mean things she does are bad enough that any of the excuses she could tell herself would likely be off-putting to readers.
But I could have put up with that, probably. I realized I was done the more Kenzie interacted with her mother. Depression is awful, and having someone who doesn't want to get better is killer. Kenzie has to babysit her mother and it's destroying her own prospects along the way. And I hate this as a thing. The purpose of parents is to give their kids the best shot they can at starting their own lives. Sacrificing children for the sake of their parents is abhorrent to me on pretty much every level. Yes, mom is alone (because she has driven everyone else in her life away). And that degree of pathetic is heartbreaking. But sacrificing a child to that pit is just wrong. There's no good answer to someone self-destructive enough that they literally don't care about basic life maintenance. But while I don't know any good answers, one of the worst is making children fill the black void.
I get the sense that taking care of mom is supposed to make up for the unsourced meanness Kenzie shows to Moira. Like, look how compassionate she is for taking care of the useless person. Like that balances the crappy treatment of a good person. But I found both annoying and that pushed me away from being able to pick this up after putting it down a bit.
I'm not going to rate this because my reaction to the mom thing is my own hangup and one I'm reluctant to put on the book. I'm sad it didn't work out because Moira was just lovely and I'd have loved seeing her come out of her self-judgment and finding confidence (which was clearly her character arc—and I mean that in a good way).
March 14, 2022
Featured presentation: The Devil Wears Tartan by Katia Rose
Sometimes you just need to dance with the devil…
Cast: Moira Murray feels like a failure. She is teaching highland dance at her mother’s dance studio and that is the extent of her life. Kenzie Andrianakis is juggling college, part time work and her family life with teaching highland dance at the Murrays’ rival studio.
The Plot: Moira returned to her mother’s dance studio after traveling the world and getting her heart broken. She encounters her nemesis from her dancing days in the form of Kenzie. Moira struggles to figure out what she wants from life. Kenzie knows what she wants, but the chances of making it come to life seems to be dwindling. A surprise scholarship for an advanced dancer might just be the answer they are both looking for.
The blazing: Ms Rose’s love for dancing shines throughout the book! I have no background in dance, but I could picture every dancing scene (even though I suspect the actual dances look slightly differently from my imagined sequences).
The bright: Both Moira and Kenzie are well-written and fully three-dimensional. Ms Rose’s signature style of alternating first person narrative works well in this case and it gives us the chance to really get to know the MCs. They come from different backgrounds and face different challenges and Ms Rose handles each with the reverence they deserve! Kenzie’s family life was exceptionally handled. Moira and Kenzie are both only twenty years old and at times they seem like twenty year olds. They are both acting tough while they are actually vulnerable and they have insecurities about their sexuality, mainly how to classify it… But they deal with their problems in various ways which shows growth and Ms Rose shows new levels of depth in these characters.
The bleak: I battled with Catherine as Kenzie’s boss and role-model… She was the perfect character for the role of the head of the Murrays’ rival school Rebecca Stewart Highland Dance Academy. I understand her role in the overall scheme things, but we see too little of the woman Kenzie admires…
The burned-to-ashes: Nothing.
And then The Plot Thickens into a tartan donning blend of dance moves as Moira and Kenzie first circle each other as rivals and then fall into the rhythm of their hearts, both personally and professionally.
The book is touted as an enemies-to-lovers romance, but I think “enemies” is a bit strong. Yes, they were rivals and fierce competitors, but at no point did it feel like they would do something to cause the other harm. Once they start to spend time together for the scholarship, they quickly realise that their rivalry was mainly professional.
I had a moment of geriatric anxiety when I saw both MCs were twenty, which meant they’re young enough to be my daughters… At no point, however, did it seem to matter. Their battles were issues a myriad of young (and not so young) people deal with every day. Ms Rose strives to make readers “laugh, cry and swoon (in that order)” and she managed all three in The Devil wears Tartan!
Studio: Independent
Closing credits: I willingly leave this review based on an eARC copy graciously granted to me by the author.
Sometimes you just need to dance with the devil…
Cast: Moira Murray feels like a failure. She is teaching highland dance at her mother’s dance studio and that is the extent of her life. Kenzie Andrianakis is juggling college, part time work and her family life with teaching highland dance at the Murrays’ rival studio.
The Plot: Moira returned to her mother’s dance studio after traveling the world and getting her heart broken. She encounters her nemesis from her dancing days in the form of Kenzie. Moira struggles to figure out what she wants from life. Kenzie knows what she wants, but the chances of making it come to life seems to be dwindling. A surprise scholarship for an advanced dancer might just be the answer they are both looking for.
The blazing: Ms Rose’s love for dancing shines throughout the book! I have no background in dance, but I could picture every dancing scene (even though I suspect the actual dances look slightly differently from my imagined sequences).
The bright: Both Moira and Kenzie are well-written and fully three-dimensional. Ms Rose’s signature style of alternating first person narrative works well in this case and it gives us the chance to really get to know the MCs. They come from different backgrounds and face different challenges and Ms Rose handles each with the reverence they deserve! Kenzie’s family life was exceptionally handled. Moira and Kenzie are both only twenty years old and at times they seem like twenty year olds. They are both acting tough while they are actually vulnerable and they have insecurities about their sexuality, mainly how to classify it… But they deal with their problems in various ways which shows growth and Ms Rose shows new levels of depth in these characters.
The bleak: I battled with Catherine as Kenzie’s boss and role-model… She was the perfect character for the role of the head of the Murrays’ rival school Rebecca Stewart Highland Dance Academy. I understand her role in the overall scheme things, but we see too little of the woman Kenzie admires…
The burned-to-ashes: Nothing.
And then The Plot Thickens into a tartan donning blend of dance moves as Moira and Kenzie first circle each other as rivals and then fall into the rhythm of their hearts, both personally and professionally.
The book is touted as an enemies-to-lovers romance, but I think “enemies” is a bit strong. Yes, they were rivals and fierce competitors, but at no point did it feel like they would do something to cause the other harm. Once they start to spend time together for the scholarship, they quickly realise that their rivalry was mainly professional.
I had a moment of geriatric anxiety when I saw both MCs were twenty, which meant they’re young enough to be my daughters… At no point, however, did it seem to matter. Their battles were issues a myriad of young (and not so young) people deal with every day. Ms Rose strives to make readers “laugh, cry and swoon (in that order)” and she managed all three in The Devil wears Tartan!
Studio: Independent
Closing credits: I willingly leave this review based on an eARC copy graciously granted to me by the author.
March 15, 2022
Who knew Highland Dancing could be so cut throat and competitive? Katia Rose did but she added romance and a bit more!
Lead characters Kenzie and Moira were dance rivals particularly through high school and the last time they met competitively was in Scotland. At that premier event, Kenzie won, Moira was carted off injured. A couple years have gone by - life experiences have molded thoughts and minds and they meet again at a competition, this time as dance teachers. Moira's been happily welcomed back to the dance fold after time abroad. She is helping out her Mom at the family dance school while coming to grips with what she considers emotional failings and trying to figure out her university plans. Kenzie teaches at a dance academy (mentored by the iron willed manager) working multiple jobs, trying to finish her university degree while dealing with family/life stresses. Two fierce competitors, both vulnerable for different reasons, who eventually open up to each other in tentative friendship working towards love.
Without going into more detail, this is a layered storyline that deals with heavy issues such as drugs and mental health without weighing down the overall plot - highland dance, rival academies, humor, angst, rivals to friends to lovers and the reality that a hand up is not always charity - it is all handled with care. I now have an appreciation of that particular dance style and the intricacies and meaning behind various costumes.
I recommend this worthwhile read with a HEA.
I rec'd an ARC from the author and this is my completely unbiased, voluntary review.
Lead characters Kenzie and Moira were dance rivals particularly through high school and the last time they met competitively was in Scotland. At that premier event, Kenzie won, Moira was carted off injured. A couple years have gone by - life experiences have molded thoughts and minds and they meet again at a competition, this time as dance teachers. Moira's been happily welcomed back to the dance fold after time abroad. She is helping out her Mom at the family dance school while coming to grips with what she considers emotional failings and trying to figure out her university plans. Kenzie teaches at a dance academy (mentored by the iron willed manager) working multiple jobs, trying to finish her university degree while dealing with family/life stresses. Two fierce competitors, both vulnerable for different reasons, who eventually open up to each other in tentative friendship working towards love.
Without going into more detail, this is a layered storyline that deals with heavy issues such as drugs and mental health without weighing down the overall plot - highland dance, rival academies, humor, angst, rivals to friends to lovers and the reality that a hand up is not always charity - it is all handled with care. I now have an appreciation of that particular dance style and the intricacies and meaning behind various costumes.
I recommend this worthwhile read with a HEA.
I rec'd an ARC from the author and this is my completely unbiased, voluntary review.
June 14, 2022
This was really good! I'm glad I found this author, I'll definitely be checking out her other works.
Moira and Kenzie have been rival Scottish Highland dancers forever. But when they start competing for a scholarship, their passionate hatred for each other has a little less hatred and a lot more passion.
I enjoyed both characters. Both are dealing with their own issues; Moira with self-doubt and feeling like she should do more with her life despite being content where she is and Kenzie with a mother who is struggling with depression and leaving a lot on Kenzie's shoulders. Both of these were realistic and the story arcs were satisfying.
I do wish we had a little more rivalry between them before they started dancing around each other (pun intended) but I still enjoyed it all.
Also, random, but both characters are Canadian, who say mom, right? Half way through one of Moira's chapters she switches to mum. It was really weird. The whole obsession Moira's mum had with Scotland was a bit weird too, but 🤷♀️
I can't wait to read the author's other books!
Moira and Kenzie have been rival Scottish Highland dancers forever. But when they start competing for a scholarship, their passionate hatred for each other has a little less hatred and a lot more passion.
I enjoyed both characters. Both are dealing with their own issues; Moira with self-doubt and feeling like she should do more with her life despite being content where she is and Kenzie with a mother who is struggling with depression and leaving a lot on Kenzie's shoulders. Both of these were realistic and the story arcs were satisfying.
I do wish we had a little more rivalry between them before they started dancing around each other (pun intended) but I still enjoyed it all.
Also, random, but both characters are Canadian, who say mom, right? Half way through one of Moira's chapters she switches to mum. It was really weird. The whole obsession Moira's mum had with Scotland was a bit weird too, but 🤷♀️
I can't wait to read the author's other books!
March 22, 2022
Moira and Kenzie don't like each other. Since the third grade they have been rivals, competing against each other in Scottish Highland dance. Both are now instructors but a scholarship opportunity has them putting their tartan back on to compete one against each other one more time. Old habits die hard as the two once again engage in insults, Only this time, maybe there's something beneath the surface besides rivalry.
I don't usually read YA books but this looked interesting so I decided to give it a try. I'm glad I did because it's a really entertaining read. I love a book where the MC's hurl insults at each other to hide their attraction and these two were masterful with the barbs they throw at each other. Moira comes from a family of Scottish folk dancers, it's in her blood. She's always seen Kenzie as the girl she had to defeat. She never thought about who Kenzie was or what she was dealing with. It's eye opening for Moira when Kenzie allows her vulnerability to show and reveals how difficult her life has been.
I always find myself drawn to the icier characters in a story featuring the sweetheart and the icy woman. Because there is always so much going on beneath the surface that leads a character to be more standoffish. In this instance, Kenzie is weighed down by so many obligations, it's no wonder she comes across as a bit snarky. It's only when she opens up do we see the wonderful woman she is behind her protective shield. I really enjoyed the dynamic between Kenzie and Moira. They make each other better, not just as dancers but as people.
This book is a wonderful read. It has humor and extremely likable characters, while also dealing with subjects like depression, substance abuse, family dynamics and labeling sexuality with sensitivity and care. This was my first Katia Rose book, but it won't be my last.
An ARC was received via StoryOrigin for an honest review.
I don't usually read YA books but this looked interesting so I decided to give it a try. I'm glad I did because it's a really entertaining read. I love a book where the MC's hurl insults at each other to hide their attraction and these two were masterful with the barbs they throw at each other. Moira comes from a family of Scottish folk dancers, it's in her blood. She's always seen Kenzie as the girl she had to defeat. She never thought about who Kenzie was or what she was dealing with. It's eye opening for Moira when Kenzie allows her vulnerability to show and reveals how difficult her life has been.
I always find myself drawn to the icier characters in a story featuring the sweetheart and the icy woman. Because there is always so much going on beneath the surface that leads a character to be more standoffish. In this instance, Kenzie is weighed down by so many obligations, it's no wonder she comes across as a bit snarky. It's only when she opens up do we see the wonderful woman she is behind her protective shield. I really enjoyed the dynamic between Kenzie and Moira. They make each other better, not just as dancers but as people.
This book is a wonderful read. It has humor and extremely likable characters, while also dealing with subjects like depression, substance abuse, family dynamics and labeling sexuality with sensitivity and care. This was my first Katia Rose book, but it won't be my last.
An ARC was received via StoryOrigin for an honest review.
Read
March 22, 2022
AND WE ARE LIIIIIIVE! The Devil Wears Tartan has officially ARRIVED. Did I bust out some of my old highland dance medals to wear around the house in celebration> Yes, yes I did. I could not be more freaking excited to finally share the book with everyone. This sapphic enemies to lovers romance is filled with new adult feels, self-discovery, swoon-worthy moments, and some pretty steamy scenes in a dance studio;) Highland dance was a very special part of my life growing up, and it means so much to share a bit about the community with my readers. Moira and Kenzie took me along for a wild ride with their love story, and I can't wait for them to take you with them down the road from lifelong rivals to falling head over heels for each other too.
March 3, 2022
My first ARC!
This was a really fun read. Honestly, I had no idea Highland dancing was a thing and reading this book led me to looking up a lot of videos on YouTube about it and it looks really fun to watch.
I think I would have enjoyed the romance more if we had a bit more perspective from Moira's point of view rather than mostly Kenzie's point of view and growth.
Overall, this was a quick and engaging read with fun characters, some really heartwarming and funny moment and a bit of spice for those looking for it.
This was a really fun read. Honestly, I had no idea Highland dancing was a thing and reading this book led me to looking up a lot of videos on YouTube about it and it looks really fun to watch.
I think I would have enjoyed the romance more if we had a bit more perspective from Moira's point of view rather than mostly Kenzie's point of view and growth.
Overall, this was a quick and engaging read with fun characters, some really heartwarming and funny moment and a bit of spice for those looking for it.
December 7, 2022
This is an enemies-to-lovers new adult romance with a background of a Scottish Highland dance environment… I enjoyed reading!
April 20, 2022
Katia Rose does it again! Dang, her romances always deliver so much. This time, I loved learning about highland dance and enjoyed Katia’s take on a spicy rivals-to lovers story.
Down-to-earth Moira Murray (20) is the golden girl of the Murray School of Highland Dance, and now that she’s in college, she’s teaching instead of competing. Prickly Kenzie Andrianakis (20) is one of the top teachers at the Rebecca Stewart Academy, the Murray School’s rival dance school. Kenzie and Moira were arch rivals when they competed against each other, but when they find themselves competing for the same Highland dance scholarship, their rivalry is resurfaced.
Okay, Katia, I see you! 🔥👀. This has to be her spiciest sapphic book yet, and she sure knows how to make those steamy scenes engaging! The romance itself heartwarming, with top-notch chemistry and lots of emotional depth. While their interactions start off heated, Moira and Kenzie aren’t enemies for long, and I loved seeing them switch to being understanding and supportive of each other.
Once again, Katia Rose is great at writing how the new adult experience affects different people. Moira grew up with a supportive family who provided the means for her to be anything she wanted, but because she doesn’t want to branch out from highland dance, she thinks she’s boring and lackluster. Kenzie’s situation is the opposite: her mother is battling depression and needs lots of support, and their family doesn’t have a lot of money. Kenzie’s dreams are bigger than what she feels she’s been dealt, and she works hard for everything she has. I loved following these women on their respective journeys, and I could relate to them both in different ways.
While I prefer Katia’s other sapphic books to this one, the fact that it’s still a top-notch romance shows what a brilliant writer she is. And as always, I’m anxiously awaiting her next book!
(Question for those who've read the book: would you agree that on the cover, Moira is on the left and Kenzie is on the right?)
content warnings: depression, guilt, fat shaming, drug overdose, graphic sex, alcohol, toxic relationship (past)
I received an ARC from Katia Rose via StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Down-to-earth Moira Murray (20) is the golden girl of the Murray School of Highland Dance, and now that she’s in college, she’s teaching instead of competing. Prickly Kenzie Andrianakis (20) is one of the top teachers at the Rebecca Stewart Academy, the Murray School’s rival dance school. Kenzie and Moira were arch rivals when they competed against each other, but when they find themselves competing for the same Highland dance scholarship, their rivalry is resurfaced.
Okay, Katia, I see you! 🔥👀. This has to be her spiciest sapphic book yet, and she sure knows how to make those steamy scenes engaging! The romance itself heartwarming, with top-notch chemistry and lots of emotional depth. While their interactions start off heated, Moira and Kenzie aren’t enemies for long, and I loved seeing them switch to being understanding and supportive of each other.
Once again, Katia Rose is great at writing how the new adult experience affects different people. Moira grew up with a supportive family who provided the means for her to be anything she wanted, but because she doesn’t want to branch out from highland dance, she thinks she’s boring and lackluster. Kenzie’s situation is the opposite: her mother is battling depression and needs lots of support, and their family doesn’t have a lot of money. Kenzie’s dreams are bigger than what she feels she’s been dealt, and she works hard for everything she has. I loved following these women on their respective journeys, and I could relate to them both in different ways.
While I prefer Katia’s other sapphic books to this one, the fact that it’s still a top-notch romance shows what a brilliant writer she is. And as always, I’m anxiously awaiting her next book!
(Question for those who've read the book: would you agree that on the cover, Moira is on the left and Kenzie is on the right?)
content warnings: depression, guilt, fat shaming, drug overdose, graphic sex, alcohol, toxic relationship (past)
I received an ARC from Katia Rose via StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 13, 2022
I came for the enemies-to-lovers trope but stayed for their growth arc.
Kenzie and Moira start off as highland dance rivals. They've competed against each other for years and they only know that side of each other. The one that is giving their absolute best to defeat the other. But when an assignment makes them work together, they learn that there is much more to the other than they cared to imagine before.
Their lives off stage couldn't have been more different. While Moira had her family's unlimited emotional and financial support, Kenzie had to fight every step of the way to establish her reputation. But when the walls start coming down, and their struggles start coming up, they start trusting, sharing and creating a bond that goes way beyond rivalry. It gave me all the warm and fuzzy feelings.
Kenzie and Moira start off as highland dance rivals. They've competed against each other for years and they only know that side of each other. The one that is giving their absolute best to defeat the other. But when an assignment makes them work together, they learn that there is much more to the other than they cared to imagine before.
Their lives off stage couldn't have been more different. While Moira had her family's unlimited emotional and financial support, Kenzie had to fight every step of the way to establish her reputation. But when the walls start coming down, and their struggles start coming up, they start trusting, sharing and creating a bond that goes way beyond rivalry. It gave me all the warm and fuzzy feelings.
April 5, 2022
I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH!!!! sapphic rivals to lovers will always be my favorite trope! It was a little slow to get into, not because of the book but because I was reading it on my tiny little phone and wondering why I did that to myself haha. after I got over that I flew through the book! It was my first time reading about highland dancing so I was a little confused but after watching a video on it, I understood the book a lot more lmaooo. this was my first time getting an ARC so I was really excited to read it!
This ARC was received via StoryOrigin for an honest review!
This ARC was received via StoryOrigin for an honest review!
October 11, 2022
3 stars
Well the Goodreads summary definitely wasn't wrong. There were significantly more bagpipes than I ever asked for. Like a lot more.
Otherwise it was fine.
Sadly I didn't manage to muster up much interest for highland dancing (which was something I didn't even know existed until I saw this book), which wasn't ideal for a book centered around it, but even I enjoyed the writing. The MCs weren't half-bad either.
So if the topic of highland dancing is your cup of tea, go for it, it's well written.
If you're like me and will try the book not knowing what the hell highland dancing is and whether it's something that interests you, don't be disheartened if you don't enjoy it all that much. It happens, no one's fault.
Well the Goodreads summary definitely wasn't wrong. There were significantly more bagpipes than I ever asked for. Like a lot more.
Otherwise it was fine.
Sadly I didn't manage to muster up much interest for highland dancing (which was something I didn't even know existed until I saw this book), which wasn't ideal for a book centered around it, but even I enjoyed the writing. The MCs weren't half-bad either.
So if the topic of highland dancing is your cup of tea, go for it, it's well written.
If you're like me and will try the book not knowing what the hell highland dancing is and whether it's something that interests you, don't be disheartened if you don't enjoy it all that much. It happens, no one's fault.
March 5, 2024
She tastes like music, like sunshine bouncing through an open window frame, like candle smoke and church bells and the glimmer of dawn on the snow. I want to drink her up. I want bottles and bottles of her.3.5 stars. An unexpected new adult win! One day I'll pin down exactly why I rarely like new adult books, or why reading about college settings, and that limbo after secondary school is so unappealing to me (far more unappealing to me than YA) but for now, I just take every win I can. This was an introduction to a new-to-me author, and a type of dance/competition I knew very little about, wrapped up in an enemies to lovers lesbian romance.
The main characters are Moira and Kenzie, who have been competing against each other in highland dance competitions since they were young. There's always been a layer of animosity and rivalry between them. Now they're both 20, both instructors at their respective schools, and both looking for more direction in their lives. They end up in the running for a scholarship; Kenzie because she really needs the money, and Moira because she really wants the purpose and direction. This takes on a lot of YA/NA themes about finding your place and being the type of person you want to be and growing up, themes which are great, but I'm not always in the mood for. But it was also just really FUN, and the characters made me smile so much. It's grumpy/sunshine of a sort. Kenzie is a cold mini ice queen, and Moira is sweet and liked by everyone. They play off of each other in interesting ways, and their banter was really good, especially in their little mini-competitions. So much good tension. The animosity wasn't too over-the-top, but understandable because of their backgrounds and age. And the attraction was really grounded and organic, paced exactly right for me.
I loved the way this talked about coming out and discovering yourself, and the pressure there is to just KNOW, when it doesn't always work like that. I liked that they were thrown together because of the scholarship, and I did kinda want a few more scenes of them working on stuff for it, but their chemistry managed to shine through in the scenes we did get. The romance was just REALLY swoony. This could have gotten a higher rating, but I didn't love all of it. There were some conversations that... it's not that I think they were badly handled; I just get prickly when I see them in books. Kenzie's whole attitude about accepting 'handouts' or whatever was really tiresome. There was growth to be had, but the journey to getting there was a little annoying, and the way it played into the third act conflict wasn't my favourite.
Listened to the audiobook as read by Sophie Daniels, who I really enjoyed! She made it a quick and light listen. I really appreciate the creativity that went into this, and I did enjoy the growth that the characters went through. There were so many moments that made me smile or gave me butterflies. I'm really glad I tried this author out, and I'll definitely look into her backlist more.
Content warnings:
August 25, 2022
This was a very wholesome, sweet read. Extra points for being about 🇨🇦🍁CANADIANS!🍁🇨🇦
March 21, 2022
4.5*
Enjoyable read! The tension between Moira and Kenzie was well written and made for a steamy romance when they finally gave in. Both Moira and Kenzie had good character growth independent of the relationship as well, touching on some heavier topics for Kenzie in particular. The book was well paced and had me looking forward to what was next through it all. Can’t wait for Rose’s next book
Note: I received an ARC in exchange for this review. The review is my honest opinion
Enjoyable read! The tension between Moira and Kenzie was well written and made for a steamy romance when they finally gave in. Both Moira and Kenzie had good character growth independent of the relationship as well, touching on some heavier topics for Kenzie in particular. The book was well paced and had me looking forward to what was next through it all. Can’t wait for Rose’s next book
Note: I received an ARC in exchange for this review. The review is my honest opinion
June 1, 2022
This was a fun read with just the right amount of angst. I thought from the blurb it would take place in Scotland, wrong - the setting is in Ottawa, Canada.
Lots of good dialogue between the MCs.
Lots of good dialogue between the MCs.
March 6, 2022
I rarely read young adult books these days, but whenever Katia Rose has a new book out, I don’t have to think twice about reading it.
And what can I say. The first thing that comes to my mind when I think about this book is wow. Wow what a fantastic enemies to lovers story this is. Wow how much chemistry these two two characters have. Wow how much depth both characters have and so many more wows.
I probably have to start at the beginning. Moira and Kenzie definitely couldn’t be more different. Moira always was and still is the golden child (especially when it comes to highland dance), she has a wonderful family and never had to worry about much (at least that’s what everyone else thinks about her). Kenzie on the other hand always had to fight so much more, be it about highland dance but also when it comes to everything else in her life (money, family and so on).
But they actually have some things in common. Mainly excelling in highland dance. What they also have in common is judging each other the wrong way. Kenzie always thought Moira had it all, while deep inside Moira is totally insecure about herself. She sees herself as boring and not chasing any dreams. When she lived dreams it were the dreams of others because hers were not big enough in her eyes. Just like she isn’t enough. Moira on the other hand was always jealous of Kenzie how put together Kenzie was, how she was able to get what she wanted and being the amazing highland dancer she is after only starting late with it.
They were always the biggest competitors and when they get back to dancing because of a competition to win a scholarship, sparks fly in every way. Did I already mention their chemistry? It definitely didn’t leave me cold. 🥵 All while they are also opening up about themselves, actually not even wanting to do that. ☺️
The layers that slowly get revealed made me turn the pages and couldn’t stop reading. What comes to the surface touched me deeply. Both bottled up things for a long time, I was able to relate to so much. Especially Kenzie dealing with her mother who suffers from depression. She always held everything together all by herself. Help and support isn’t something she knows. It’s about pretending because she is ashamed. She loves her mum and does almost everything for her. But the thing is when it comes to mental health issues, you can only help someone until a specific point. At some point the other person needs to also want help. Getting there and saying no to a loved one, putting yourself first for once is one of the hardest things. Having a mum who has her own mental health issues I know what it means. All of this means Kenzie does at some point what she knows best, which is hiding. Letting Moira in is actually one of the biggest challenges for her. Moira doesn‘t understand what I means having to deal with things like Kenzie had to. But I loved how she tried to understand and being there.
I was touched deeply by this story of self discovery and growth. And that’s where I better stop writing. 🙈☺️ Or almost stop writing because there is one side character I wanna point out besides Moira & Kenzie. It’s Moira‘s mum Margaret. She is the mum you wanna have in your life, who is just the best support. I totally loved her. And last but not least I wanna mention that I didn’t only learn so much about highland dance. I also got to see Nickelback‘s music in a different light. ☺️ So better get this book as soon as you can and start reading. It’s another wonderful read by Katia Rose that includes all the feelings and that I highly recommend.
I received an ARC of this book via StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving a review.
And what can I say. The first thing that comes to my mind when I think about this book is wow. Wow what a fantastic enemies to lovers story this is. Wow how much chemistry these two two characters have. Wow how much depth both characters have and so many more wows.
I probably have to start at the beginning. Moira and Kenzie definitely couldn’t be more different. Moira always was and still is the golden child (especially when it comes to highland dance), she has a wonderful family and never had to worry about much (at least that’s what everyone else thinks about her). Kenzie on the other hand always had to fight so much more, be it about highland dance but also when it comes to everything else in her life (money, family and so on).
But they actually have some things in common. Mainly excelling in highland dance. What they also have in common is judging each other the wrong way. Kenzie always thought Moira had it all, while deep inside Moira is totally insecure about herself. She sees herself as boring and not chasing any dreams. When she lived dreams it were the dreams of others because hers were not big enough in her eyes. Just like she isn’t enough. Moira on the other hand was always jealous of Kenzie how put together Kenzie was, how she was able to get what she wanted and being the amazing highland dancer she is after only starting late with it.
They were always the biggest competitors and when they get back to dancing because of a competition to win a scholarship, sparks fly in every way. Did I already mention their chemistry? It definitely didn’t leave me cold. 🥵 All while they are also opening up about themselves, actually not even wanting to do that. ☺️
The layers that slowly get revealed made me turn the pages and couldn’t stop reading. What comes to the surface touched me deeply. Both bottled up things for a long time, I was able to relate to so much. Especially Kenzie dealing with her mother who suffers from depression. She always held everything together all by herself. Help and support isn’t something she knows. It’s about pretending because she is ashamed. She loves her mum and does almost everything for her. But the thing is when it comes to mental health issues, you can only help someone until a specific point. At some point the other person needs to also want help. Getting there and saying no to a loved one, putting yourself first for once is one of the hardest things. Having a mum who has her own mental health issues I know what it means. All of this means Kenzie does at some point what she knows best, which is hiding. Letting Moira in is actually one of the biggest challenges for her. Moira doesn‘t understand what I means having to deal with things like Kenzie had to. But I loved how she tried to understand and being there.
I was touched deeply by this story of self discovery and growth. And that’s where I better stop writing. 🙈☺️ Or almost stop writing because there is one side character I wanna point out besides Moira & Kenzie. It’s Moira‘s mum Margaret. She is the mum you wanna have in your life, who is just the best support. I totally loved her. And last but not least I wanna mention that I didn’t only learn so much about highland dance. I also got to see Nickelback‘s music in a different light. ☺️ So better get this book as soon as you can and start reading. It’s another wonderful read by Katia Rose that includes all the feelings and that I highly recommend.
I received an ARC of this book via StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 23, 2022
I went into this expecting a cute enemies-to-lovers romance but this book definitely had a lot more substance to it.
The enemies-to-lovers trope is possibly my favourite and Moira and Kenzie were excellent enemies. There’s an intense rivalry set up in the highland dance world and their snarkiness towards each other initially made me giggle. This shifts pretty quickly though from enemies to friends and then lovers. Even though it was quick, I thought the romance developed organically and I really liked the way it played out in the novel.
This book is a romance, absolutely, but it also features some heavy topics within. Moira was struggling with self-acceptance when we met her, but it was Kenzie who tug at my heartstrings throughout. Her home life was incredibly sad to watch as well as how it impacted her during the novel. The character development and story arc of Kenzie alone was exceptional. Hats off to Katia Rose for this feat alone.
As it’s a New Adult novel, both characters are 20 years old and at times, you can really see how young these characters are still. I typically shy away from the genre due to this, but I really enjoyed reading this novel as it kept me engaged throughout and I loved the characters.
Many thanks to Katia Rose for providing me a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
The enemies-to-lovers trope is possibly my favourite and Moira and Kenzie were excellent enemies. There’s an intense rivalry set up in the highland dance world and their snarkiness towards each other initially made me giggle. This shifts pretty quickly though from enemies to friends and then lovers. Even though it was quick, I thought the romance developed organically and I really liked the way it played out in the novel.
This book is a romance, absolutely, but it also features some heavy topics within. Moira was struggling with self-acceptance when we met her, but it was Kenzie who tug at my heartstrings throughout. Her home life was incredibly sad to watch as well as how it impacted her during the novel. The character development and story arc of Kenzie alone was exceptional. Hats off to Katia Rose for this feat alone.
As it’s a New Adult novel, both characters are 20 years old and at times, you can really see how young these characters are still. I typically shy away from the genre due to this, but I really enjoyed reading this novel as it kept me engaged throughout and I loved the characters.
Many thanks to Katia Rose for providing me a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
March 22, 2022
This NA sapphic rivals-to-lovers is great! The characters were both so interesting and well developed. I grew to love both of them so deeply as they grew to love each other.
The setting of the competitive Highland Dance world is so unique and fascinating and was written with such authority and nuance. I loved seeing a young curvy girl in such a competitive athletic world and in a sapphic relationship where her body was desired and celebrated. The mentorship and maternal relationships were so beautiful and compelling, and I think the book did such a great job of exploring what rivalry actually is - complex, emotional relationship that is so caught up in one's feelings of their own self worth and worthiness all mixed up with a projection of who the other person is (or who you want them to be). I was also really invested in the way the book explored class dynamics between the heroines.
If you're in search of funny and emotional new adult sapphic romances (which, of course you are! What's better than that??), do not sleep on Katia Rose.
Thanks to the author for this ARC.
CW: depression of a side character, overdoes of a side character (off page), substance abuse of a side character (past)
The setting of the competitive Highland Dance world is so unique and fascinating and was written with such authority and nuance. I loved seeing a young curvy girl in such a competitive athletic world and in a sapphic relationship where her body was desired and celebrated. The mentorship and maternal relationships were so beautiful and compelling, and I think the book did such a great job of exploring what rivalry actually is - complex, emotional relationship that is so caught up in one's feelings of their own self worth and worthiness all mixed up with a projection of who the other person is (or who you want them to be). I was also really invested in the way the book explored class dynamics between the heroines.
If you're in search of funny and emotional new adult sapphic romances (which, of course you are! What's better than that??), do not sleep on Katia Rose.
Thanks to the author for this ARC.
CW: depression of a side character, overdoes of a side character (off page), substance abuse of a side character (past)
March 21, 2023
Rounding up.
I liked that this featured an athletic lead with a larger body type and while there was a little commentary on how her body shape may have lead to some disparaging comments, that was not the point of the angst.
The chemistry and playfulness of the mains was well done. While the characters had some communication issues it was fairly understandable as to why. There was pretty decent communication overall and it was not the main issue.
One problem I had was that we spent more time on Moira instead of Kenzie. I felt like Kenzie had quite a bit going on and it would have been nice to spend more time with her and slowly watch the buildup to that character growth.
I know very little about highland dancing so I was a little bummed that there was not more of an introduction of the sport. I didn't feel that connection and passion that I usually do with other sport related stories. It served as a decent introduction overall but not something that really sparked my interest.
Overall, a fine medium angst sapphic romance.
An ARC was given to me for an honest review.
I liked that this featured an athletic lead with a larger body type and while there was a little commentary on how her body shape may have lead to some disparaging comments, that was not the point of the angst.
The chemistry and playfulness of the mains was well done. While the characters had some communication issues it was fairly understandable as to why. There was pretty decent communication overall and it was not the main issue.
One problem I had was that we spent more time on Moira instead of Kenzie. I felt like Kenzie had quite a bit going on and it would have been nice to spend more time with her and slowly watch the buildup to that character growth.
I know very little about highland dancing so I was a little bummed that there was not more of an introduction of the sport. I didn't feel that connection and passion that I usually do with other sport related stories. It served as a decent introduction overall but not something that really sparked my interest.
Overall, a fine medium angst sapphic romance.
An ARC was given to me for an honest review.
March 17, 2022
Rating: 4.25
This is a well written book, as are all of Katia Rose books. She did well developing the two main characters and I enjoyed the enemies to lovers for the most part. There were some parts that I was bit apprehensive about.
The two main characters are 20 years old. They are new adults and still really trying to figure out their place in life. They both have some issues to contend with and for the most part they do a pretty good job for their age.
When the intimate scenes came around I felt that they were a bit young for the confidence and sexiness of the scenes. They just came off a little too experienced to be realistic to me.
Otherwise, I really enjoyed this book. It surprised me with things I didn’t expect and also had some real life issues that I think many readers will be able to relate to.
Rose always does a wonderful job being inclusive and creates diverse characters.
This is a well written book, as are all of Katia Rose books. She did well developing the two main characters and I enjoyed the enemies to lovers for the most part. There were some parts that I was bit apprehensive about.
The two main characters are 20 years old. They are new adults and still really trying to figure out their place in life. They both have some issues to contend with and for the most part they do a pretty good job for their age.
When the intimate scenes came around I felt that they were a bit young for the confidence and sexiness of the scenes. They just came off a little too experienced to be realistic to me.
Otherwise, I really enjoyed this book. It surprised me with things I didn’t expect and also had some real life issues that I think many readers will be able to relate to.
Rose always does a wonderful job being inclusive and creates diverse characters.
April 8, 2022
4.5 stars
This is my first ARC and I absolutely loved it. I didn't even know highland dancing was a thing and while reading this book I probably watched way too many YT videos about it and it was amazing.
I loved the dynamic between Kenzie and Moira. I love how competitive they both were and their chemistry was off the chart and I don't think that I'll ever look at pancakes and not think about this book lol.
Also, I love Moira's mom and the way she cared about both Moira and Kenzie.
The truth is, I’ve never really felt like enough.
"I’ve always felt like the whole world is telling me to, like, be more, you know? To seize the day and take every opportunity I can because I’m supposed to want this huge and majestic life." I relate so much with Moira.
A perfect read for people who are fans of Rivals/enemies to lovers trope and I will definitely recommend this to my friends.
This is my first ARC and I absolutely loved it. I didn't even know highland dancing was a thing and while reading this book I probably watched way too many YT videos about it and it was amazing.
I loved the dynamic between Kenzie and Moira. I love how competitive they both were and their chemistry was off the chart and I don't think that I'll ever look at pancakes and not think about this book lol.
Also, I love Moira's mom and the way she cared about both Moira and Kenzie.
The truth is, I’ve never really felt like enough.
"I’ve always felt like the whole world is telling me to, like, be more, you know? To seize the day and take every opportunity I can because I’m supposed to want this huge and majestic life." I relate so much with Moira.
A perfect read for people who are fans of Rivals/enemies to lovers trope and I will definitely recommend this to my friends.
March 22, 2022
This book was just the pick me up I needed after a tough week. Moira and Kenzie have been highland dancing rivals since childhood. Neither are what they appear on the surface and neither believe they’re enough. But how can you judge what is and isn’t enough in life? Moira and Kenzie battle themselves and each other to win a scholarship believing the answers they seek can be found in the reward. But can they?
I loved this book, the two characters were so endearing in their own unique ways whilst trying to hide their fears by letting their feet do the talking.
Full of wonderful humour, bickering, battles and buns, this book is a delight.
I loved this book, the two characters were so endearing in their own unique ways whilst trying to hide their fears by letting their feet do the talking.
Full of wonderful humour, bickering, battles and buns, this book is a delight.
March 1, 2023
Good book. As I always say, I probably would have been more invested if I had gotten to see more of the rivalry before Moira and Kinzie started to fall for each other. It’s still good! I just love seeing the full span of the characters and their history with each other which is more my issue than the book’s issue!! One day I’ll find the perfect balance! Anyway, read the book! They are still cute!
April 5, 2022
This is not a lesbian historical romance, which I thought because of the name - it's a contemporary romance between two long-standing highland dance rivals.
The colorful background we get really helps the story - the juxtaposition between Moira's family's school - hodge podge, hominess - and the school where Kenzie grew up - more cold and professional - mirrors them as well. Moira is sweet and bubbly and is basically a Scottish legacy. Kenzie is a bit more reserved and severe, who feels she needs to fight to stake her "claim" in being a part of the community. Moira is plus sized and looks at Kenzie as being thin, poised, and put together; Kenzie feels everyone falls over themselves to adore Moira.
Enemies to lovers used to be my favorite trope. I'll blame it on The Hating Game being one of the first adult romances I ever read. I thought it was genius!
But after a while, I've realized I prefer a romance where the characters don't start out with a long standing hatred because often times they're... genuinely mean to one another.
The slow transition from enemies to antagonists to begrudging friends to something more was well paced.
To me, this book was missing a little something as a romance. BUT, it was great as a coming-of-age story of self acceptance. Moira feels lost, like she doesn't know what she wants to do with her future and is trying to play catch-up. Kenzie feels she's missing out on life - she doesn't want to get close to anyone or for anyone to know her family struggles. Because of that, to me the romance felt secondary and less flushed out.
The colorful background we get really helps the story - the juxtaposition between Moira's family's school - hodge podge, hominess - and the school where Kenzie grew up - more cold and professional - mirrors them as well. Moira is sweet and bubbly and is basically a Scottish legacy. Kenzie is a bit more reserved and severe, who feels she needs to fight to stake her "claim" in being a part of the community. Moira is plus sized and looks at Kenzie as being thin, poised, and put together; Kenzie feels everyone falls over themselves to adore Moira.
Enemies to lovers used to be my favorite trope. I'll blame it on The Hating Game being one of the first adult romances I ever read. I thought it was genius!
But after a while, I've realized I prefer a romance where the characters don't start out with a long standing hatred because often times they're... genuinely mean to one another.
The slow transition from enemies to antagonists to begrudging friends to something more was well paced.
To me, this book was missing a little something as a romance. BUT, it was great as a coming-of-age story of self acceptance. Moira feels lost, like she doesn't know what she wants to do with her future and is trying to play catch-up. Kenzie feels she's missing out on life - she doesn't want to get close to anyone or for anyone to know her family struggles. Because of that, to me the romance felt secondary and less flushed out.
April 26, 2022
The Devil Wears Tartan is about Moira and Kenzie, they were two rival highland dancers since they were growing up. Now they have a chance to win a life-changing scholarship, which refuels their past rivalry. Although they’ve been enemies, there is something that draws Moira and Kenzie together after all this time.
This is the third book I’ve read from Katie Rose and it definitely did not disappoint. While I resonated more with the other two books, The Devil Wears Tartan was not too far behind. I don’t normally read too many books of opposites-attract/enemies-to-lovers romance but I thought that this one was well-written.
I really enjoyed the moments when they were alone and learning more about each other and their interactions. It was a sweet love story between two young women trying to find their way.
The author touches on a myriad of topics like mental illness and substance abuse, just to name a few. While they are difficult subjects, it was done in a tasteful way.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is the third book I’ve read from Katie Rose and it definitely did not disappoint. While I resonated more with the other two books, The Devil Wears Tartan was not too far behind. I don’t normally read too many books of opposites-attract/enemies-to-lovers romance but I thought that this one was well-written.
I really enjoyed the moments when they were alone and learning more about each other and their interactions. It was a sweet love story between two young women trying to find their way.
The author touches on a myriad of topics like mental illness and substance abuse, just to name a few. While they are difficult subjects, it was done in a tasteful way.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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