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Blakeley Manor #2
Lady Briar Weds the Scot
From the bestselling Regency romance author Fenna Edgewood comes an enchanting and passionate story about a mismatched young lady and a stubborn laird who surrender their hearts to one another despite their best endeavors…
Beautiful and eligible, Briar Blakeley is the beloved youngest sister of a duke. Eschewing the London marriage mart, she has no plans to wed anytime soon... until she’s abducted alongside her family's handsome Scottish gardener and cast into a web of intrigue and secrets.
Swept Away to Scotland…
Wren Spencer returned from the wars with the French to find a bitter feud has split him from his clan—and his birthright. Putting the rejection behind him, he takes up a quiet life at Blakeley Manor tending shrubbery as the gardner. Three years later, a group of loyal Highlanders are determined to bring Wren home—whether he wishes to go or not. The other problem? They've mistaken Briar for his wife and kidnapped her along with him.
Forced to Wed…
Now that Briar has been compromised and carried off to Scotland, she must wed one of two men. The only question is who will she choose?
When Wren proposes a marriage of convenience, he tells himself honor drives him—not the ripe lips and bright spirit of the young woman who has resurrected his heart with something he thought he would never feel again. A rare and passionate love. But when dark deeds threaten his new bride, the Scottish laird finds himself caught up in a dangerous game and must risk his legacy and even his life to save the woman who has become most precious to him.
An unforgettable journey to the Highlands, in a tale replete with romance, mystery, and laughter.
Beautiful and eligible, Briar Blakeley is the beloved youngest sister of a duke. Eschewing the London marriage mart, she has no plans to wed anytime soon... until she’s abducted alongside her family's handsome Scottish gardener and cast into a web of intrigue and secrets.
Swept Away to Scotland…
Wren Spencer returned from the wars with the French to find a bitter feud has split him from his clan—and his birthright. Putting the rejection behind him, he takes up a quiet life at Blakeley Manor tending shrubbery as the gardner. Three years later, a group of loyal Highlanders are determined to bring Wren home—whether he wishes to go or not. The other problem? They've mistaken Briar for his wife and kidnapped her along with him.
Forced to Wed…
Now that Briar has been compromised and carried off to Scotland, she must wed one of two men. The only question is who will she choose?
When Wren proposes a marriage of convenience, he tells himself honor drives him—not the ripe lips and bright spirit of the young woman who has resurrected his heart with something he thought he would never feel again. A rare and passionate love. But when dark deeds threaten his new bride, the Scottish laird finds himself caught up in a dangerous game and must risk his legacy and even his life to save the woman who has become most precious to him.
An unforgettable journey to the Highlands, in a tale replete with romance, mystery, and laughter.
254 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 24, 2022
459 people are currently reading
622 people want to read
About the author
Fenna Edgewood
21 books182 followersUSA TODAY bestselling author Fenna Edgewood writes steamy, swoon-worthy stories of love, family, and adventure. Fenna lives on the Canadian Prairies with her husband and two tiny tots (who are adorable but generally terrible research assistants). She is an award-winning retired academic who has studied English literature for most of her life. Before becoming a full-time author, her last "real" job was teaching high school students above the Arctic Circle. After a long hiatus from writing make-believe as a twelve-year-old, she has returned to the genre with a bang!
For a FREE book from Fenna, join her NL: https://fennaedgewood.com/newsletter/
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And be sure to follow her on Bookbub for the latest deals! https://www.bookbub.com/authors/fenna...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 185 reviews
October 23, 2022
Ohhh I loved this one. Set in the early 1800s, Lady Briar Weds the Scot provides not only (tons of) amazing emotional spice🌶, but also action, suspense, adventure, and sweet romance. Once again Fenna adds a thrilling plot to an adorable (and spicy) regency romance.
Also, I don’t know exactly how to say "mo chridhe” but as soon as I figure it out, I’ll answer to nothing else.
What I loved:
🏰 Dual 3rd person perspective
🏰The most amazing MMC!! Wren might be my favorite yet. And he’s Scottish 👀 and he GROWLS.
🏰 Caring, confident, supportive FMC
🏰 Their nicknames for each other
🏰 The descriptions of Scotland
🏰 The underlying feminist themes
🏰 The characters’ support of women who may have been outcasted in the 1800s
🏰 The character redemption arcs
🏰 The sibling relationships
🏰 The characters’ inner thoughts
Why not 5 stars?
⛺️ The only thing I didn’t like was the naïvety of the FMC. There were a few instances where I was screaming at her for doing or saying something she shouldn’t have.
⛺️Just a note (not a negative): Wren speaks with a Scottish accent and I had to say some of his sentences aloud like “willna = will not.” I got used to it quickly 😂
Tropes
- class differences
- sister’s husband’s brother
- he falls first
- grumpy sunshine
- marriage of convenience
- forced proximity
- redemption arcs
🛑 TW
- mis0gyny
- brief mention of war memories
- Scottish prejudice
- insinuation of r*pe
- descriptive spicy scenes
- childbirth (side character)
- brief mention of early m!scarriages
- vi0lence + d3ath
- dxmestic abxse (non-descriptive)
Also, I don’t know exactly how to say "mo chridhe” but as soon as I figure it out, I’ll answer to nothing else.
What I loved:
🏰 Dual 3rd person perspective
🏰The most amazing MMC!! Wren might be my favorite yet. And he’s Scottish 👀 and he GROWLS.
🏰 Caring, confident, supportive FMC
🏰 Their nicknames for each other
🏰 The descriptions of Scotland
🏰 The underlying feminist themes
🏰 The characters’ support of women who may have been outcasted in the 1800s
🏰 The character redemption arcs
🏰 The sibling relationships
🏰 The characters’ inner thoughts
Why not 5 stars?
⛺️ The only thing I didn’t like was the naïvety of the FMC. There were a few instances where I was screaming at her for doing or saying something she shouldn’t have.
⛺️Just a note (not a negative): Wren speaks with a Scottish accent and I had to say some of his sentences aloud like “willna = will not.” I got used to it quickly 😂
Tropes
- class differences
- sister’s husband’s brother
- he falls first
- grumpy sunshine
- marriage of convenience
- forced proximity
- redemption arcs
🛑 TW
- mis0gyny
- brief mention of war memories
- Scottish prejudice
- insinuation of r*pe
- descriptive spicy scenes
- childbirth (side character)
- brief mention of early m!scarriages
- vi0lence + d3ath
- dxmestic abxse (non-descriptive)
no-way-jose
March 12, 2024I’m so disappointed, this is a new author for me and from the cute colorful covers to the book blurbs I read of this series, all seem that they would be cute and fluffy yet very steamy stories. Yet, I am on page 60 and I have not stopped cringing ever since I started on page 1. Not a good sign….
My disappointment all boils down to this being straight up over-the-top cheesy in its attempt at political correctness/modern thinking and speech. You can only suspend your disbelief so far… Absolutely nothing even remotely realistic or plausible for the Regency time period has happened in these first few chapters. And I am NOT a stickler for historical accuracy. As long as there is a great love story with plausible conversations and emotions, I’m all for whatever.
But this was bad, in my opinion.. No way would people have spoken or reacted as such back then during that era. A powerful duke cheerfully letting his sisters marry stable hands, gardeners, housekeepers…. I could buy into it if the duke was resistant to some point, yet gives in when true love conquers all, but he’s extremely open-minded for this era.
Speaking of the gardener, our hero, he was sighing impatiently and irritatedly when meeting the heroine for the first time. She was his employer, she called his name to stop him and ask him a question, and he gets all huffy and belligerent, yeah right.
Then the whole contrived plot of the random village girl that became pregnant by a member of the aristocracy. So this heroine berates the perpetual drunk peer for not marrying the poor village girl, yeah right. Then her brother, the duke, and her are so worried about the pregnant village girl, and feel horrible that the peer abandoned her after impregnating her, so they send baskets of baby gifts and offer financial assistance to the poor girl and her family, seems oddly generous and forward-thinking of them. Then the heroine is shocked that the pregnant girl’s father is upset and embarrassed about his daughter being unmarried and pregnant, and she tries to preach to him how wrong he is to treat his daughter that way. I mean, she’s not wrong, but that’s not how society was back then. Way too contemporary for my historical tastes and none of it rang authentic.
As the heroine had another unrealistic eyeroll-worthy conversation with her big brother, the duke, after her horseback ride with the hero, I realized I didn’t care for any character or any aspect of the story.
As Gloria would advise me, time to abandon ship! Maybe the old 2010 Lori would have enjoyed this, but the 2024 Lori expects to not cringe while reading 😖
The next book has got to be better!
My disappointment all boils down to this being straight up over-the-top cheesy in its attempt at political correctness/modern thinking and speech. You can only suspend your disbelief so far… Absolutely nothing even remotely realistic or plausible for the Regency time period has happened in these first few chapters. And I am NOT a stickler for historical accuracy. As long as there is a great love story with plausible conversations and emotions, I’m all for whatever.
But this was bad, in my opinion.. No way would people have spoken or reacted as such back then during that era. A powerful duke cheerfully letting his sisters marry stable hands, gardeners, housekeepers…. I could buy into it if the duke was resistant to some point, yet gives in when true love conquers all, but he’s extremely open-minded for this era.
Speaking of the gardener, our hero, he was sighing impatiently and irritatedly when meeting the heroine for the first time. She was his employer, she called his name to stop him and ask him a question, and he gets all huffy and belligerent, yeah right.
Then the whole contrived plot of the random village girl that became pregnant by a member of the aristocracy. So this heroine berates the perpetual drunk peer for not marrying the poor village girl, yeah right. Then her brother, the duke, and her are so worried about the pregnant village girl, and feel horrible that the peer abandoned her after impregnating her, so they send baskets of baby gifts and offer financial assistance to the poor girl and her family, seems oddly generous and forward-thinking of them. Then the heroine is shocked that the pregnant girl’s father is upset and embarrassed about his daughter being unmarried and pregnant, and she tries to preach to him how wrong he is to treat his daughter that way. I mean, she’s not wrong, but that’s not how society was back then. Way too contemporary for my historical tastes and none of it rang authentic.
As the heroine had another unrealistic eyeroll-worthy conversation with her big brother, the duke, after her horseback ride with the hero, I realized I didn’t care for any character or any aspect of the story.
As Gloria would advise me, time to abandon ship! Maybe the old 2010 Lori would have enjoyed this, but the 2024 Lori expects to not cringe while reading 😖
The next book has got to be better!
November 8, 2023
“I didna ken what love was, Briar. It is tender and sweet, never jealous, never cruel. It doesna betray. I would never betray ye. Never.”
I have been in a reading slump for a little bit, so I finally decided to shift genres and I'm so glad that I did. It was definitely what I needed in order to feel fully engrossed in my reading material once again. I thoroughly enjoyed this regency romance. It had everything that makes this genre so wonderful. An innocent, sweet, caring, and kind heroine, that has the capacity to love so passionately... A possessive, OTT, masculine Hero that will do anything to protect his lady! We had characters that redeemed themselves, twists and misunderstandings, and a really satisfying finish to the villain. Let's take a little closer look at all of this, shall we?
MMC/Hero/H: Wren/Renfrew was a gardener at Blakeley Manor. After the war, for personal reasons, he decided not to return to Scotland and instead chose to stay in England and help his half siblings. His half sister is already married into the Blakely family and, despite the scandal that pairing caused, he and his other half sister were employed by the estate.
FMC/heroine/h: Briar is the youngest of the Blakely siblings. She is unmarried and a lady in every sense of the word.
The story opens with Briar's best childhood friend, Percy (yet now estranged and also a blaggard) proposing marriage between the two of them. She absolutely refuses and then chastises him over a rumor that she heard about him impregnating a young lady and then abandoning her. He all but confirms this to be true and Briar is appalled, further cementing her refusal. Percy is dismissed from the estate and Briar decides to go visit the young lady because she just so happens to be the daughter of one of their tenant's. She uses this as an opportunity to ask the gardener and now family by marriage, to escort her because she wants to get to know him better. Wren, the gardener, is very uncomfortable by this because he cannot help but be attracted to the young lady, whom he knows is way out of his league.
"She was sweet as honey, probably twice as naive, and something about her was making his blood pound and his loins tighten. The sooner he could get rid of her the better."
After their visit to the young lady and her family, they are stopped by a drunk and enraged Percy who is blocking the roadway not permitting their carriage to pass. Wren has no choice but to unhitch a horse and ride with Briar back to the manor. Not too long after all of this, Briar finds herself needing an escort once more and she returns to ask Wren for his assistance. As much as he doesn't want to be alone with the lady once more, he cannot bring himself to tell her no.
"Lady Briar had gotten more than she bargained for today. Little did she know that, when she asked Wren to go visiting her tenants, she would be binding herself to him. Not only for the span of one afternoon but quite possibly for the rest of her life."
It is during this excursion that the pair of them are kidnapped along with Percy who originally sold the information of Wren's whereabouts to the rogues. Briar was originally mistaken for Wren's wife and was forced to travel along, thus compromising herself by being alone with a group of men for days on end. She has no choice but to choose between Percy and Wren as to who she will willingly wed.
“When we get to Scotland, ye needs must be wed, Lady Briar,” Wren said quietly, “to one of us.” He ran a hand over his face. “I may no’ be able to protect ye otherwise.”
This is where our romance between Wren and Briar officially starts. They're forced to wed because Briar needs the protection only marriage will provide and Wren feels responsible for the situation she finds herself in. Despite the origins of their union, though, they do fall for each other.
"No other woman had ever made him feel this way. No other woman had ever induced this heady combination in him—white-hot desire mixed with fierce tenderness."
"He wanted to protect her, always. He wanted to hold her in his arms, wrap her in his plaid, comfort her, shelter her. And, he had to confess, he wanted to take her as he had last night, again and again."
Once they arrive in Scotland, the two of them, together, face the danger that awaits them head on. Will their newfound love be strong enough to hold them together in the midst of so much deceit and chaos?
"Their connection was strong. She was reassured of that now. He loved her. Together, they were unbreakable."
I have absolutely nothing negative to say about this story whatsoever and wouldn't want anything changed about it. I highly recommend this one to anyone that is a fan of regency romance, marriages of convenience, and the union of two different social classes.
March 14, 2023
So sad
This as a good book and I loved the dynamics of the main couple. The brother was truly evil. He lied and schemed and killed his way to being the Laird. He did pay for his sins but the part that was awful was the Percy part. He started out as just a bad man but grew so much in the story. He started being a good man and revealed his strengths and I just thought I hope he goes back a better man. But no. He didn't and I was really sad that his event towards the end was just barely mentioned. He deserved better than that. I really did enjoy the book though and will read this author again.
This as a good book and I loved the dynamics of the main couple. The brother was truly evil. He lied and schemed and killed his way to being the Laird. He did pay for his sins but the part that was awful was the Percy part. He started out as just a bad man but grew so much in the story. He started being a good man and revealed his strengths and I just thought I hope he goes back a better man. But no. He didn't and I was really sad that his event towards the end was just barely mentioned. He deserved better than that. I really did enjoy the book though and will read this author again.
December 29, 2022
THE REVIEW
Lady Briar Blakeley is the sister to the Duke of Darefield. She is happy to postpone her come out and enjoy her independence a while longer. But a childhood friend appears claiming that they have been betrothed for years and he is ready to marry her. Briar is shocked, appalled and kicks Percy out. But he will not give up easily and attempts to force her to accept his hand.
Wren Spencer is the gardener at the Blakey estate, but he has his secrets. He fought in the wars for Scotland and never returned home. When trouble with Percy causes Briar to seek out Wren as an escort, he starts to soften towards her. But Percy goes to far and engages some ruffians to kidnap Briar and Wren, only Percy is caught in the mix as well. And this unfolds a wild tale of discovering deceit within Wrens family and hopefully restoring him to his rightful place as Laird!
This was a very very enjoyable read. It was a great mix of romance, adventure, plot and swoon! Wren was just such a love and he protected Briar from the start and, although he didn’t want to love, he wasn’t too stubborn when it inevitably happened. Briar was probably my favorite though. She was independent and didn’t want to marry right away, but she wasn’t pushy and feminist about it. She wasn’t thrilled to be forced to marry Percy or Wren after being kidnapped and thus compromised, but she wasn’t completely adverse to Wrens charms. Over all, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I cannot wait to dive into the next in the series featuring Briar’s brother, Dare the Duke of Darefield!
TROPES
Historical Romance, Regency Era, Scotland, Beta/Cinnamon Roll Hero, Damaged/Tortured Hero, Highland Warrior Hero, Soldier/War Hero, Protective Hero, Runaway/Jilted Groom, Orphan Heroine, Virgin Heroine, First Cut is the Deepest, Married in Scandal/Forced Marriage, Abduction/Kidnapped, Forced Proximity, Hidden Identity, Lost heir, Road Trip Trope, Romantic Ride Sharing, Betrayal Trope, Suspense/Danger/Murder, Outdoor Steam, Five Star, Two Flame
Lady Briar Blakeley is the sister to the Duke of Darefield. She is happy to postpone her come out and enjoy her independence a while longer. But a childhood friend appears claiming that they have been betrothed for years and he is ready to marry her. Briar is shocked, appalled and kicks Percy out. But he will not give up easily and attempts to force her to accept his hand.
Wren Spencer is the gardener at the Blakey estate, but he has his secrets. He fought in the wars for Scotland and never returned home. When trouble with Percy causes Briar to seek out Wren as an escort, he starts to soften towards her. But Percy goes to far and engages some ruffians to kidnap Briar and Wren, only Percy is caught in the mix as well. And this unfolds a wild tale of discovering deceit within Wrens family and hopefully restoring him to his rightful place as Laird!
This was a very very enjoyable read. It was a great mix of romance, adventure, plot and swoon! Wren was just such a love and he protected Briar from the start and, although he didn’t want to love, he wasn’t too stubborn when it inevitably happened. Briar was probably my favorite though. She was independent and didn’t want to marry right away, but she wasn’t pushy and feminist about it. She wasn’t thrilled to be forced to marry Percy or Wren after being kidnapped and thus compromised, but she wasn’t completely adverse to Wrens charms. Over all, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I cannot wait to dive into the next in the series featuring Briar’s brother, Dare the Duke of Darefield!
TROPES
Historical Romance, Regency Era, Scotland, Beta/Cinnamon Roll Hero, Damaged/Tortured Hero, Highland Warrior Hero, Soldier/War Hero, Protective Hero, Runaway/Jilted Groom, Orphan Heroine, Virgin Heroine, First Cut is the Deepest, Married in Scandal/Forced Marriage, Abduction/Kidnapped, Forced Proximity, Hidden Identity, Lost heir, Road Trip Trope, Romantic Ride Sharing, Betrayal Trope, Suspense/Danger/Murder, Outdoor Steam, Five Star, Two Flame
February 8, 2024
This was fun, but the rampant sexism grew really annoying really fast. Fun, and good writing with believable characters. 3 ⭐
October 16, 2022
Absolutely loved it. (Not surprised, Fenna’s amazing.)
The characters were well written and very likeable. The story was compelling. Percy, ugh! 😭.
The duel. 😰 Esme. 🥺
I truly hope to see Esme and Angus again. 🙏
Love the mythological allusions. Love how clean her writing is. I know it’s not a contest, but I was rereading the Bridgerton books again, and I think Fenna’s stories are better than Julia Quinn’s. 😳 I did not expect that— but I stand by it.
I’ve been reading historical fiction since I was like 12. I’ve read a lot, and this was one of my absolute favourites. It brings me back to why I started reading romance in the first place.
Definitely swoon worthy! 💓💗
November 8, 2022
Sometimes it’s hard to see what’s right in front of you. It might take a kidnapping, misperceptions of marriage, and forced proximity to make two people realize they’re meant for one another. Lady Briar Weds the Scot is a charming tale of two people who stumble into love when circumstances move them beyond their societal standings and their assumptions of one another.
The title gives away the crux of the plot: Wren and Briar must wed when Wren’s kidnappers assume she’s his wife (they are riding in a closed carriage, after all). But those kidnappers also bring along Briar’s spurned suitor, they turn out to be not just kidnappers but double-crossers of Wren’s double-crossing relative, and they’re actually returning Wren to a legacy he didn’t realize he had. Talk about a fair amount to unpack!
I liked both Briar and Wren, though Briar’s assumptions of the best of everyone made her at times seem very young and naïve to me. Then she’d have a moment of great wisdom and insight. So I wasn’t quite sure what to make of her. Wren has the opposite problem—he doesn’t tell Briar enough about what they’re facing, and that leads to some unexpected difficulties when they finally reach their Scottish destination. The cast of secondary characters features some stereotypes but also some nicely rounded and surprising characterizations. And I did wish for more of a sense of closure with Wren’s family.
But charm can go a long way, and the amount of charm Edgewood invests Lady Briar Weds the Scot with is plenty to make for an enjoyable romance read.
The title gives away the crux of the plot: Wren and Briar must wed when Wren’s kidnappers assume she’s his wife (they are riding in a closed carriage, after all). But those kidnappers also bring along Briar’s spurned suitor, they turn out to be not just kidnappers but double-crossers of Wren’s double-crossing relative, and they’re actually returning Wren to a legacy he didn’t realize he had. Talk about a fair amount to unpack!
I liked both Briar and Wren, though Briar’s assumptions of the best of everyone made her at times seem very young and naïve to me. Then she’d have a moment of great wisdom and insight. So I wasn’t quite sure what to make of her. Wren has the opposite problem—he doesn’t tell Briar enough about what they’re facing, and that leads to some unexpected difficulties when they finally reach their Scottish destination. The cast of secondary characters features some stereotypes but also some nicely rounded and surprising characterizations. And I did wish for more of a sense of closure with Wren’s family.
But charm can go a long way, and the amount of charm Edgewood invests Lady Briar Weds the Scot with is plenty to make for an enjoyable romance read.
October 19, 2022
“Lady Briar Weds the Scot,” by Fenna Edgewood, was an agreeable book. I really enjoyed the introduction. I could feel the chemistry between Briar and Wren right away. I really enjoyed Briar, she was strong willed, funny, and very level headed. While Wren was not my favorite character, I really liked how caring and considerate he was. While he could be intense, he always made sure that Briar’s thoughts were heard and needs were met. The story kind of dragged in the middle, I wish I could have learned more about the characters backgrounds instead. But the drag was worth the wait, the ending was amazing. It was perfect for the plot and the characters. It was perfectly paced and I felt all of my questions were answered. I really appreciated the migraine scenes, as a migraine sufferer I feel very seen. I enjoyed the book and I look forward to learning more about Briar’s family in upcoming series.
* I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGallery in exchange for my honest review.
* I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGallery in exchange for my honest review.
December 1, 2024
When the duke’s little sister is mistaken for the gardener’s wife, she finds herself unexpectedly on a life-changing one-way trip to Scotland...
~ Briar & Wren ~
She’s a determined young woman; determined to make her own choices, to choose the right man, to help where and when she can, to meddle in her brothers and sister’s lives - even those who married into the family’s family – and that’s who he draws her attention.
Tall, taciturn and tantalising, he’s her brother’s gardener, but also her brother-in-law’s half-brother. A man who survived the war and chose to remain in England instead of returning home to Scotland. But why?
I love how easily this story slipped from high-class Regency England into rugged rough almost medieval Scotland - it’s not a time travel romance, it just feels that way.
The couple gets kidnapped alongside their nemesis Percy - her sleezy neighbour who knocked up a tenant girl and then tried to claim Briar’s hand - by Scottish ruffians – his clansmen - and the trip up north isn’t a doozy. A marriage of convenience, mercenaries, al fresco nights, megrims and mermaid moments. And when they finally make it to the castle, there’s his devious cousin, clan envy and long-ago betrayal. The green-eyed monster is ready to dine, and it ain’t pretty.
Briar and Wren’s slow burn romance is marvellous! At first he’s the lesser of two evils, but she really can’t deny he’s one delectable giant - especially once the kilt comes on, or was it off? And he - this gentle caring but brutal warrior - is so smitten by his forbidden English rose... not that he’ll fall in love again. Never. Ever!
Percy’s redemption arc is a thing of beauty! A little sad, but also heartwarming.
I loved the colour and folklore in this story, the brogue, the loyalty and the sizzling steam!
Action-packed, entertaining, witty and swoony romantic, this was an utterly enthralling read!
~ Briar & Wren ~
She’s a determined young woman; determined to make her own choices, to choose the right man, to help where and when she can, to meddle in her brothers and sister’s lives - even those who married into the family’s family – and that’s who he draws her attention.
Tall, taciturn and tantalising, he’s her brother’s gardener, but also her brother-in-law’s half-brother. A man who survived the war and chose to remain in England instead of returning home to Scotland. But why?
I love how easily this story slipped from high-class Regency England into rugged rough almost medieval Scotland - it’s not a time travel romance, it just feels that way.
The couple gets kidnapped alongside their nemesis Percy - her sleezy neighbour who knocked up a tenant girl and then tried to claim Briar’s hand - by Scottish ruffians – his clansmen - and the trip up north isn’t a doozy. A marriage of convenience, mercenaries, al fresco nights, megrims and mermaid moments. And when they finally make it to the castle, there’s his devious cousin, clan envy and long-ago betrayal. The green-eyed monster is ready to dine, and it ain’t pretty.
Briar and Wren’s slow burn romance is marvellous! At first he’s the lesser of two evils, but she really can’t deny he’s one delectable giant - especially once the kilt comes on, or was it off? And he - this gentle caring but brutal warrior - is so smitten by his forbidden English rose... not that he’ll fall in love again. Never. Ever!
Percy’s redemption arc is a thing of beauty! A little sad, but also heartwarming.
I loved the colour and folklore in this story, the brogue, the loyalty and the sizzling steam!
Action-packed, entertaining, witty and swoony romantic, this was an utterly enthralling read!
October 20, 2022
This is the first book I have read by this author and I'm hooked! The story itself is sweet, funny, spicey, a bit of a tear jerker, action filled and well written. There is enough drama to keep you turning the pages but not so much to overcome your senses. Briar is such a sweet character and gives the impression of being both spoiled and self-centered but the more you get to know her, the more you see an honest, truly ethical and principled gem of a person. Wren is just so perfectly written, strong, hard, arrogant but a true gentle giant, loyal and loving. The secondary characters are equally interesting and often surprising in their own way. I especially love Percy. But what I loved most about this author's writing style is her lack of pages and pages of detail. She puts just enough in to set the stage without overwhelming the reader, especially if you are a non imaginative person like me. I love the dialogue, thoughts of the characters and the communication so much more than pages filled with setting the scenes. I have a handful of favorite authors because of this and Ms. Edgewood just got added to my short list. Can't wait for more on the Spencer's and Blakeleys.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 2, 2022
Beautiful and eligible, Briar Blakeley is the beloved youngest sister of Edmund the Duke of Dareford . Eschewing the London marriage mart, she has no plans to wed anytime soon until she’s abducted alongside her family's handsome Scottish gardener and cast into a web of intrigue and secrets. Wren Spencer returned from the wars with the French to find a bitter feud has split him from his clan and his birthright. Putting the rejection behind him, he takes up a quiet life at Blakeley Manor tending shrubbery as the gardener. Three years later, a group of loyal Highlanders are determined to bring Wren home, whether he wishes to go or not. They mistake Briar for his wife and kidnapped her along with him as well as Percy Briar's childhood friend & rejected suitor. Now that Briar has been compromised and carried off to Scotland, she must wed one of two men. The only question is who will she choose? When Wren proposes a marriage of convenience, he tells himself honour drives him but when dark deeds threaten his new bride, the Scottish laird finds himself caught up in a dangerous game and must risk his legacy and even his life to save the woman who has become most precious to him.
The start of a new series & it was a delight. The characters are well developed & have depth, the pace is good & never lags & the chemistry between Wren & Briar just grows & grows. I found myself engrossed in the book & found it hard to put down, it also took me on a range of emotions from laughing to shedding a tear. I loved both Wren & briar & thoroughly enjoyed their rocky road to a HEA. I also really liked it that Wren & Briar actually talked & were supportive of each other. The villain was horrid but got his just desserts. I would have loved an epilogue as so wanted to know what happened to Angus & Esme – I hope we find out in a future book
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The start of a new series & it was a delight. The characters are well developed & have depth, the pace is good & never lags & the chemistry between Wren & Briar just grows & grows. I found myself engrossed in the book & found it hard to put down, it also took me on a range of emotions from laughing to shedding a tear. I loved both Wren & briar & thoroughly enjoyed their rocky road to a HEA. I also really liked it that Wren & Briar actually talked & were supportive of each other. The villain was horrid but got his just desserts. I would have loved an epilogue as so wanted to know what happened to Angus & Esme – I hope we find out in a future book
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
October 19, 2022
Beautiful and eligible, Briar Blakeley is the beloved youngest sister of a duke. Eschewing the London marriage mart, she has no plans to wed anytime soon... until she’s abducted alongside her family's handsome Scottish gardener and cast into a web of intrigue and secrets.
Swept Away to Scotland…
Wren Spencer returned from the wars with the French to find a bitter feud has split him from his clan—and his birthright. Putting the rejection behind him, he takes up a quiet life at Blakeley Manor tending shrubbery as the gardner. Three years later, a group of loyal Highlanders are determined to bring Wren home—whether he wishes to go or not. The other problem? They've mistaken Briar for his wife and kidnapped her along with him.
Forced to Wed…
Now that Briar has been compromised and carried off to Scotland, she must wed one of two men. The only question is who will she choose?
When Wren proposes a marriage of convenience, he tells himself honor drives him—not the ripe lips and bright spirit of the young woman who has resurrected his heart with something he thought he would never feel again. A rare and passionate love. But when dark deeds threaten his new bride, the Scottish laird finds himself caught up in a dangerous game and must risk his legacy and even his life to save the woman who has become most precious to him.
Wren could not contain himself to go through with a marriage of convenience. Briar was in love with Wren but couldn't let him know.
Fenna Edgewood writes a compelling romance.
I received this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Swept Away to Scotland…
Wren Spencer returned from the wars with the French to find a bitter feud has split him from his clan—and his birthright. Putting the rejection behind him, he takes up a quiet life at Blakeley Manor tending shrubbery as the gardner. Three years later, a group of loyal Highlanders are determined to bring Wren home—whether he wishes to go or not. The other problem? They've mistaken Briar for his wife and kidnapped her along with him.
Forced to Wed…
Now that Briar has been compromised and carried off to Scotland, she must wed one of two men. The only question is who will she choose?
When Wren proposes a marriage of convenience, he tells himself honor drives him—not the ripe lips and bright spirit of the young woman who has resurrected his heart with something he thought he would never feel again. A rare and passionate love. But when dark deeds threaten his new bride, the Scottish laird finds himself caught up in a dangerous game and must risk his legacy and even his life to save the woman who has become most precious to him.
Wren could not contain himself to go through with a marriage of convenience. Briar was in love with Wren but couldn't let him know.
Fenna Edgewood writes a compelling romance.
I received this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
January 13, 2025
4 1/2*STARS
Lady Briar has no interest in getting married, especially to Percy Quintrell. In Percy's "clever" move to get Lady Briar to marry him, he hires some Scots to hijack her coach, only there is a Scot in the coach with her. In a twist of plans, the hijackers really want the Scot in the coach, Robert Renfrew (Wren) Spencer, and not Lady Briar. Unfortunately Percy and Briar are forced to go with Wren and the kidnappers to Scotland. To save her reputation, Briar must marry Percy or Wren. Briar weds Wren and finds out he is the new laird. He wasn't supposed to survive the kidnapping, but those loyal to him have vowed to guard his life. An untrustworthy cousin puts Wren and Briar in danger and an unlikely hero plays an important part in their happiness. A favorite trope where the two lead characters are of a different class.
HEAT LEVEL 4.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lady Briar has no interest in getting married, especially to Percy Quintrell. In Percy's "clever" move to get Lady Briar to marry him, he hires some Scots to hijack her coach, only there is a Scot in the coach with her. In a twist of plans, the hijackers really want the Scot in the coach, Robert Renfrew (Wren) Spencer, and not Lady Briar. Unfortunately Percy and Briar are forced to go with Wren and the kidnappers to Scotland. To save her reputation, Briar must marry Percy or Wren. Briar weds Wren and finds out he is the new laird. He wasn't supposed to survive the kidnapping, but those loyal to him have vowed to guard his life. An untrustworthy cousin puts Wren and Briar in danger and an unlikely hero plays an important part in their happiness. A favorite trope where the two lead characters are of a different class.
HEAT LEVEL 4.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 17, 2022
First in a new cross-class
historical romance. Lady Briar has is abducted alongside their Scottish gardener Wren Spencer, who’s been separated from his clan due to a feud and has lived quietly for three years after coming home from Waterloo. I read the prequel in a Christmas anthology and while it wasn’t my favorite, I wanted to give a full-length read a shot.
I struggle with the concept in this time period. Employee and employer being related by marriage with zero repercussions? The in-laws are just supposed to use first names like they’re family and pretend what one isn’t a servant of the other. It’s a weird relationship and power dynamic in heavily stratified regency society.
If you can suspend disbelief about the class difference, the local drunk Percy who wants to marry Briar, Wren, and Briar are abducted together when Percy’s scheme to help mercenaries bring Wren back to Scotland goes awry.
Wren was far too trusting when he returned home. There’s some romanticizing of Scottish people, which is why I don’t always love highland-set romances. I wanted more interactions with Loghain and Wren to raise the tension. A few things were told that should have been shown, like Wren’s recounting of his history and his challenge to Loghain.
I enjoyed the intrigue plot and the pacing, especially Wren’s backstory. Briar is sweet and assertive, if a little naïve, and Wren is protective and struggling to accept all the lies. It’s nice to read a romance where the MCs have conversations and the misunderstandings aren’t overdone.
3.5 stars I received an arc from NetGalley
historical romance. Lady Briar has is abducted alongside their Scottish gardener Wren Spencer, who’s been separated from his clan due to a feud and has lived quietly for three years after coming home from Waterloo. I read the prequel in a Christmas anthology and while it wasn’t my favorite, I wanted to give a full-length read a shot.
I struggle with the concept in this time period. Employee and employer being related by marriage with zero repercussions? The in-laws are just supposed to use first names like they’re family and pretend what one isn’t a servant of the other. It’s a weird relationship and power dynamic in heavily stratified regency society.
If you can suspend disbelief about the class difference, the local drunk Percy who wants to marry Briar, Wren, and Briar are abducted together when Percy’s scheme to help mercenaries bring Wren back to Scotland goes awry.
Wren was far too trusting when he returned home. There’s some romanticizing of Scottish people, which is why I don’t always love highland-set romances. I wanted more interactions with Loghain and Wren to raise the tension. A few things were told that should have been shown, like Wren’s recounting of his history and his challenge to Loghain.
I enjoyed the intrigue plot and the pacing, especially Wren’s backstory. Briar is sweet and assertive, if a little naïve, and Wren is protective and struggling to accept all the lies. It’s nice to read a romance where the MCs have conversations and the misunderstandings aren’t overdone.
3.5 stars I received an arc from NetGalley
November 10, 2022
Briar is the youngest of the brood at Blakely Manor. In no hurry to get married and change her quaint existence, things get tossed about when the family gardener, Wren, comes back from war.
What is a befuddled kidnapping plot, where Briar is accidentally caught up in, she finds herself with Wren.
Not a bad bloke to be stuck with. But still.
Fenna Edgewood is a master at Historical European Romance Fiction. This time the author whisks us away to Scotland and yes, I read this book with a Scottish inner monologue. Try it.
And once again, as always with a Fenna Edgewood novel, you will instantly see and feel a connection between the characters. There is enough steam to keep you reading and enough of a "what if they don't get together in time" gut punch to keep reading.
What is a befuddled kidnapping plot, where Briar is accidentally caught up in, she finds herself with Wren.
Not a bad bloke to be stuck with. But still.
Fenna Edgewood is a master at Historical European Romance Fiction. This time the author whisks us away to Scotland and yes, I read this book with a Scottish inner monologue. Try it.
And once again, as always with a Fenna Edgewood novel, you will instantly see and feel a connection between the characters. There is enough steam to keep you reading and enough of a "what if they don't get together in time" gut punch to keep reading.
May 6, 2024
Over the years, while I am waiting for new releases from my "regular" authors to come out, I look for other books to read. There are few I have made my “go to” authors. These are authors I don't read on a regular basis but have researched and enjoyed their books. Fenna Edgewood is a fairly new author to this list. This is my 5th book by her and I have really enjoyed her books. I feel she gets great depth in her characters and sex is pretty decent.
I enjoyed this story. I liked Briar and Wren's characters. They both had great personalities. I liked the adventurous tale. Not a huge fan of Scottish stories but I did like this one. Sex scenes were well written. They weren't long but nicely done and there were a few of them.
I enjoyed this story. I liked Briar and Wren's characters. They both had great personalities. I liked the adventurous tale. Not a huge fan of Scottish stories but I did like this one. Sex scenes were well written. They weren't long but nicely done and there were a few of them.
October 16, 2022
*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
I read the novella prequel to this series in the Naughty or Nice collection but if you haven't read that don't worry, you'll be able to pick up what's going on pretty easily. I really liked Briar when I met her in Kat's story so I was excited to get to see what the author had in store for her. I liked that she was trying so hard to get Wren to like her because they were now family-by-marriage. She is such a genuine and caring person you knew he wouldn't be able to resist her for long. Their romance, although forced by the circumstance of being kidnapped, was actually really sweet. It was also great to see Percy's transformation from spoiled brat to good man. I'm not sure how I feel about what ultimately happens to him. It certainly raised the stakes, but didn't need to occur in order to move that part of the story forward. It ultimately felt like such a waste of what could have been a really great character. I'm not sure why Wren hadn't told Briar about his cousin's past behaviors as it would have protected her from his machinations. But, other than that this was a pretty great book. It certainly made me want to read more not just from this series but from the author as well.
I read the novella prequel to this series in the Naughty or Nice collection but if you haven't read that don't worry, you'll be able to pick up what's going on pretty easily. I really liked Briar when I met her in Kat's story so I was excited to get to see what the author had in store for her. I liked that she was trying so hard to get Wren to like her because they were now family-by-marriage. She is such a genuine and caring person you knew he wouldn't be able to resist her for long. Their romance, although forced by the circumstance of being kidnapped, was actually really sweet. It was also great to see Percy's transformation from spoiled brat to good man. I'm not sure how I feel about what ultimately happens to him. It certainly raised the stakes, but didn't need to occur in order to move that part of the story forward. It ultimately felt like such a waste of what could have been a really great character. I'm not sure why Wren hadn't told Briar about his cousin's past behaviors as it would have protected her from his machinations. But, other than that this was a pretty great book. It certainly made me want to read more not just from this series but from the author as well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 18, 2022
I struggled to rate this because I really enjoyed it. It's definitely a solid 4.5 to me. It was a fascinating take on a kidnapping romance that went all the way to Scotland. I enjoy a good Scottish road trip with a cast of unique characters and tons of drama. This one had it all.
Briar came from a very forward-thinking family. She was pretty comfortable in her own skin. Even though she was of the age to have her first season, her older brother didn't make her do so. Perhaps it was because of her parent's death or he wasn't really into all that kind of stuff. Briar does have a "fiance" that comes drunkenly to her house trying to force her hand in marriage. Percy, the fiance has also been spending time with a young lady from the village. He isn't aware that Briar also knows this and that there is a baby coming. So she lets him know she won't be doing anything with him. Well, Percy is just a pitiful human and is kicked out of the house after insulting her. While ranting and raving outside, the gardener overhears and Percy ends up with a bloodied nose. Now the gardener has his own secrets and isn't who he says he is...
The reader gets a peak of Wren's, the gardener, character when he accompanies Briar to the mother of Percy's child's house. Even though Percy is a jerk and quite immature, Briar is still concerned about the young lady and the baby. She desires to be helpful. I really think she was happy she didn't have to marry Percy's, childish self.
Anyway, this is where I end my review because what happens next is unbelievable and quite hilarious in some parts. If you enjoy Highland/Scottish romance with an interesting class of characters and tent action, definitely pick this up. You won't be disappointed.
I just reviewed Lady Briar Weds the Scot by Fenna Edgewood. #LadyBriarWedstheScot #NetGalley
Briar came from a very forward-thinking family. She was pretty comfortable in her own skin. Even though she was of the age to have her first season, her older brother didn't make her do so. Perhaps it was because of her parent's death or he wasn't really into all that kind of stuff. Briar does have a "fiance" that comes drunkenly to her house trying to force her hand in marriage. Percy, the fiance has also been spending time with a young lady from the village. He isn't aware that Briar also knows this and that there is a baby coming. So she lets him know she won't be doing anything with him. Well, Percy is just a pitiful human and is kicked out of the house after insulting her. While ranting and raving outside, the gardener overhears and Percy ends up with a bloodied nose. Now the gardener has his own secrets and isn't who he says he is...
The reader gets a peak of Wren's, the gardener, character when he accompanies Briar to the mother of Percy's child's house. Even though Percy is a jerk and quite immature, Briar is still concerned about the young lady and the baby. She desires to be helpful. I really think she was happy she didn't have to marry Percy's, childish self.
Anyway, this is where I end my review because what happens next is unbelievable and quite hilarious in some parts. If you enjoy Highland/Scottish romance with an interesting class of characters and tent action, definitely pick this up. You won't be disappointed.
I just reviewed Lady Briar Weds the Scot by Fenna Edgewood. #LadyBriarWedstheScot #NetGalley
October 26, 2022
I just loved this book, it ticked all the boxes for the perfect spicy read. Briar Blakeley turned down a marriage proposal from the despicable Percy and ends up being kidnapped with him along with the gardener Wren and are on their way to Scotland. To save her reputation she has to marry one of them. She choses the Scottish gardener.
If you wanted to be married in Scotland, you just had to say you were, and you were married. No paperwork, no ceremony as such. So they married but Wren didn't want to rush the relationship so he held back. I loved the build up from friends to lovers as they travelled to Scotland.
It really does pack a lot in from an ambush and duals, highs and sad lows, to an apothecary I need to know more about. I'm hoping she appears in the next book. I just loved this read and I'm looking forward to more from this author.
If you wanted to be married in Scotland, you just had to say you were, and you were married. No paperwork, no ceremony as such. So they married but Wren didn't want to rush the relationship so he held back. I loved the build up from friends to lovers as they travelled to Scotland.
It really does pack a lot in from an ambush and duals, highs and sad lows, to an apothecary I need to know more about. I'm hoping she appears in the next book. I just loved this read and I'm looking forward to more from this author.
July 9, 2023
I liked the story of Wren and Briar. The story moved along with romance at the forefront. Wren was a strong Scotsman who felt it was sworn duty to protect Briar from Percy. The story is a page turner. I thought that story does have its moments of surprises from the characters, but other moments that book feels somber. The story is an interesting read.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 19, 2022
LADY BRIAR WEDS THE SCOT is my first novel by Fenna Edgewood. I am pleasantly surprised by this story. It's witty, adventurous and tragic.
Wren is a Scot so that's an automatic win in my book. He's a born leader, compassionate and a charismatic hero.
Briar starts off a bit childish but she has a generous nature that can't be overlooked. In the end she is a well-developed character that is a great match for Wren.
The cover got my attention but the story sealed the deal.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Wren is a Scot so that's an automatic win in my book. He's a born leader, compassionate and a charismatic hero.
Briar starts off a bit childish but she has a generous nature that can't be overlooked. In the end she is a well-developed character that is a great match for Wren.
The cover got my attention but the story sealed the deal.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 24, 2022
It was an accident. Really it was. The strong willed girl would never. Well she actually might but thats besides the point. She didn't mean to. It was really his fault. But once she did that was all it took. I enjoyed how this book was going and then it happened. I am still not sure I am excited about it. But its already written. I hope she follows through on the next book..... I did really enjoy the ending except one thing. I enjoyed how he redeemed himself.
I recieved a free copy so that I might tell you what I honestly think. Hope you enjoyed my review. Now go enjoy the book
I recieved a free copy so that I might tell you what I honestly think. Hope you enjoyed my review. Now go enjoy the book
October 26, 2022
Lady Briar was a naive young woman until she married a hunky Scottish man, Wren (odd nickname). She leaves England with him on a long trip to Scotland. She believes the worst is behind her once they reach Renfrew Castle, however, she finds being trustworthy almost costs her her life. This novel has it all—family; adventure; evil, corrupt men; death; a dual; and love! Verra, verra entertaining!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 24, 2022
What a fantastic new series! I loved the coupling of Briar and Wren. Their story was absolutely believable and not as stereotypical as some period romances can be.
I shed a few tears when Percy died, he truly had become a beloved character by the time of his demise.
I'll be honest, I'm hoping the setup for the next book is Angus and Esme. They were fantastic supporting characters and deserve a story line of their own.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I shed a few tears when Percy died, he truly had become a beloved character by the time of his demise.
I'll be honest, I'm hoping the setup for the next book is Angus and Esme. They were fantastic supporting characters and deserve a story line of their own.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2022
This is a wonderful cross class story of love, passion and redemption. Briar is the beloved youngest sister of a Duke and Wren is a displaced Laird returned from the wars. Split from his clan Wren finds work as a gardener at Briar's home and soon an attraction springs drawing them together. Until fate steps in as Wren's loyal clans men abducts them both to Scotland. Compromised Briar has no choice, but to marry. Will their marriage be one of convenience or love.
October 22, 2022
Ms Fenna does it again with a thoroughly delightful, original story! Lady Briar is a feisty, loving and sympathetic soul who wants to help those in need and bring people in to the family, regardless of their station in life. Wren is a grumpy soul, hiding from family or so he thought! I loved how he was so protective of her, even when he wanted to stay away from her. Percy was written perfectly! Absolutely loved how his arc in life was given a chance to grow. This was a wonderful story and will be looking for book #2!
February 6, 2023
Readers who enjoy Victorian Romance, will have scored with this novel!
Read full review in the 2023 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2023 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
October 17, 2022
I like a good Regency romance and this is slightly different to most books of that genre as it takes place away from the pomp of the Ton (who don't even receive a mention!).
The pairing took a while to grow on me, and you have to take some of the events with a pinch of salt (everyone seems very relaxed about the reputation of a Lady being absolutely ruined) but it's an enjoyable story which clearly links to others in a series (which I haven't read) but was easily read as a standalone.
The pairing took a while to grow on me, and you have to take some of the events with a pinch of salt (everyone seems very relaxed about the reputation of a Lady being absolutely ruined) but it's an enjoyable story which clearly links to others in a series (which I haven't read) but was easily read as a standalone.
November 7, 2023
I received this novel, Lady Briar Weds the Scot by Fenna Edgewood, as an ARC by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
I liked this novel, but I didn’t love it as much as I’d hoped I would, based on other’s reviews. For me, the novel started out with a bang, and I was cruising along, enjoying it immensely and on board with this being a 5-star review for perhaps the first half of the novel. For that part of the novel, there were many things to recommend it: it was well-written and interesting. I liked the main characters mostly and thought they were well-developed. I liked that even some of the questionable characters had a growth arc, and I thought the author did a great job with the Scots dialect. I could hear the characters’ way of speaking in my head, and it felt true but wasn’t so over the top that it became difficult to understand or interrupted the flow of reading.
What I didn’t like after the first half of the story centered on things that I don’t like in my historical romances, that the characters, both main and secondary became morally gray, and that there was too much violence in this story for me. The villain is a smiling sociopath, but even his long-suffering wife made me mistrust her motives right up until the very end, making her less sympathetic to me overall. Several characters end up killing other people - and while one case may have been justified, the other time or two by the hero did not necessarily, in my mind, have to take place. I think I would have appreciated Wren showing more restraint as a man and new laird than killing men who could have been taken captive rather than killed. I also had a really hard time accepting a certain character death - and I‘m not sure that part even needed to happen, especially after substantial character growth. I was almost done reading at that point - with about 20% left of the novel to go. I’m not sure redeemed secondary characters need to meet a terrible end - that’s like killing your darlings. I personally don’t like that in my romance novel, but other readers perhaps don’t mind. I would say - just be forewarned because it did my heart in.
Which leads into my next problem with this novel. It starts out in the early 19th century, but then it feels like it then goes back in time to medieval times in Scotland, where people may have been more likely to commit violence and banish people for their misdeeds than put them in gaol. And this is when the story started to drag for me a bit - when I lost my connection to the hero, Wren and wasn’t as invested as I had been in the first part of the novel. I also didn’t appreciate him calling his wife “a silly lass” the first time he tells her he loves her - a little harsh for such a big moment between the two of them. A little demeaning for her, and I was taken back to not thinking of them as being on the same level emotionally as man and wife - but as a 30+ year old man sort of belittling his 19 year-old wife. I have to admit, it was a little bit of a disconnect for me.
That being said, the story was original and had some really good parts. I liked the author’s writing style, but I personally don’t like my hero being overprotective to the point of fatally harming others, no matter if it comes from a place of devotion and love. There are other ways of dealing with “bad men” than merely eliminating their existence in this world.
3-3.5 stars
I liked this novel, but I didn’t love it as much as I’d hoped I would, based on other’s reviews. For me, the novel started out with a bang, and I was cruising along, enjoying it immensely and on board with this being a 5-star review for perhaps the first half of the novel. For that part of the novel, there were many things to recommend it: it was well-written and interesting. I liked the main characters mostly and thought they were well-developed. I liked that even some of the questionable characters had a growth arc, and I thought the author did a great job with the Scots dialect. I could hear the characters’ way of speaking in my head, and it felt true but wasn’t so over the top that it became difficult to understand or interrupted the flow of reading.
What I didn’t like after the first half of the story centered on things that I don’t like in my historical romances, that the characters, both main and secondary became morally gray, and that there was too much violence in this story for me. The villain is a smiling sociopath, but even his long-suffering wife made me mistrust her motives right up until the very end, making her less sympathetic to me overall. Several characters end up killing other people - and while one case may have been justified, the other time or two by the hero did not necessarily, in my mind, have to take place. I think I would have appreciated Wren showing more restraint as a man and new laird than killing men who could have been taken captive rather than killed. I also had a really hard time accepting a certain character death - and I‘m not sure that part even needed to happen, especially after substantial character growth. I was almost done reading at that point - with about 20% left of the novel to go. I’m not sure redeemed secondary characters need to meet a terrible end - that’s like killing your darlings. I personally don’t like that in my romance novel, but other readers perhaps don’t mind. I would say - just be forewarned because it did my heart in.
Which leads into my next problem with this novel. It starts out in the early 19th century, but then it feels like it then goes back in time to medieval times in Scotland, where people may have been more likely to commit violence and banish people for their misdeeds than put them in gaol. And this is when the story started to drag for me a bit - when I lost my connection to the hero, Wren and wasn’t as invested as I had been in the first part of the novel. I also didn’t appreciate him calling his wife “a silly lass” the first time he tells her he loves her - a little harsh for such a big moment between the two of them. A little demeaning for her, and I was taken back to not thinking of them as being on the same level emotionally as man and wife - but as a 30+ year old man sort of belittling his 19 year-old wife. I have to admit, it was a little bit of a disconnect for me.
That being said, the story was original and had some really good parts. I liked the author’s writing style, but I personally don’t like my hero being overprotective to the point of fatally harming others, no matter if it comes from a place of devotion and love. There are other ways of dealing with “bad men” than merely eliminating their existence in this world.
3-3.5 stars
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