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The Warrior Maids of Rivenloch #1
Lady Danger
Raised to fear no man, Deirdre of Rivenloch never backs down from a clash of steel or a threat to her lands and family. But when she tricks Sir Pagan Cameliard into marrying her in order to save her younger sister, she's faced with a new kind of enemy: a husband who would turn her resistance into a fire that heats her blood...and who would use all his cunning to make her cry his name in ultimate abandon. For Pagan has made his own wedding vow. he will best his sword-wielding bride in the field by day and make hersurrender in his arms by night. Her heart will be his.. even if it means being conquered by hers.
368 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2006
1676 people are currently reading
4145 people want to read
About the author
Sarah McKerrigan
4 books138 followersFrom http://www.sarahmckerrigan.com/index...
Sarah McKerrigan is another pen name of GLYNNIS CAMPBELL. When she isn’t writing historical romance, she’s the voice of several cartoon characters, the wife of a rock star, and the mother of two nerdy kids.
She started her eclectic career as a ballerina in her hometown of Paradise, California, where she became the city’s Gold Nugget Queen. She graduated from CSU Chico with a degree in Music with Distinction, singing arias by day and playing rock and roll at night.
A lifelong love of towering castles, trusty swords, and knights (and damsels) in shining armor prompted Glynnis to try writing historical romance. Her premiere novel, MY CHAMPION, was a finalist for a RITA award. Her subsequent MY WARRIOR, MY HERO, and A KNIGHT’S VOW received multiple awards and critical acclaim.
Under the nom de plume of Sarah McKerrigan, Glynnis has written three medieval romance novels for Warner Books featuring kick-ass warrior wenches: LADY DANGER, CAPTIVE HEART, and KNIGHT’S PRIZE
Sarah McKerrigan is another pen name of GLYNNIS CAMPBELL. When she isn’t writing historical romance, she’s the voice of several cartoon characters, the wife of a rock star, and the mother of two nerdy kids.
She started her eclectic career as a ballerina in her hometown of Paradise, California, where she became the city’s Gold Nugget Queen. She graduated from CSU Chico with a degree in Music with Distinction, singing arias by day and playing rock and roll at night.
A lifelong love of towering castles, trusty swords, and knights (and damsels) in shining armor prompted Glynnis to try writing historical romance. Her premiere novel, MY CHAMPION, was a finalist for a RITA award. Her subsequent MY WARRIOR, MY HERO, and A KNIGHT’S VOW received multiple awards and critical acclaim.
Under the nom de plume of Sarah McKerrigan, Glynnis has written three medieval romance novels for Warner Books featuring kick-ass warrior wenches: LADY DANGER, CAPTIVE HEART, and KNIGHT’S PRIZE
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 382 reviews
July 27, 2016
I don't normally rate or review books I don't finish, but since I couldn't find any other reviews that mention what bothered me, I thought I'd do one for all those other readers like me.
The story in general did seem interesting: three sisters trying to keep their castle running and safe in face of possible invasion while hiding their father's mental incapacity.
The problem was the "romance." The male lead rapes the female lead, but it is clear that the author doesn't view her own scene as rape, either because she thinks rape can only happen through penile penetration or that it has to be physically violent to count.
At the end of the scene, the reader is bombarded with praise, some by the victim herself, about the male lead being such a gentleman for only raping her with his hands and because he gave her a foot massage first.
I stopped there (about 1/3 through the book) in disgust. Maybe somehow the story redeems itself, but it's difficult for me to imagine how. If you don't like stories where rape is treated as an act of seduction, then this book isn't for you.
The story in general did seem interesting: three sisters trying to keep their castle running and safe in face of possible invasion while hiding their father's mental incapacity.
The problem was the "romance." The male lead rapes the female lead, but it is clear that the author doesn't view her own scene as rape, either because she thinks rape can only happen through penile penetration or that it has to be physically violent to count.
At the end of the scene, the reader is bombarded with praise, some by the victim herself, about the male lead being such a gentleman for only raping her with his hands and because he gave her a foot massage first.
I stopped there (about 1/3 through the book) in disgust. Maybe somehow the story redeems itself, but it's difficult for me to imagine how. If you don't like stories where rape is treated as an act of seduction, then this book isn't for you.
November 3, 2015
I tried getting into this one, I mean it mentioned bad-ass warrior maidens and stubborn alpha hunks who fall hard for their ladies and I was sure it was going to be awesome. Unfortunately the opening scene kind of set the mood for this one and it didn't whole-heartedly improve by the end.
The scene that started the downward spiral of disappointment for me is that the Hero spies the two sisters (eventually sister #3 joins them) while they are bathing naked in a lake/pond or something. He isn't alone, of course his buddy is with him and we get the gist that the Hero is there to choose a bride among the sisters. That doesn't bother me, I like reading about marriages of convenience that turn to love, but what I don't like is hearing the Hero along with his friend get hard-ons for the sisters. They basically make douche bag comments about how their both hot and basically interchangable. I get their attractive but there is something just wrong about your guy lusting after your sister(s) and you in the same breathe. I like a distinct line between rival attractions and I don't like reading about it happening between sisters.
Another thing that I didn't like was that the Hero doesn't really do anything endearing or sweeet to win his lady. He basically bullies her and threatens her and belittles her character because she chooses to be different. I never could trust his affection or declaration of love because it all seemed centered on the sex. I often wondered if the younger sister hadn't been timid and thus no longer stirred him sexually and if the middle sister hadn't disappeared for a large chunk of the story, would he have remained in love/lust exclusively with the heroine? There was nothing that showed me he wouldn't have traded her in for someone else it there was someone available. He pretty much proved it when he groped that maid in the closet - there he only stopped because of his pride, not so much for respect or guilt over the heroine/wife.
I don't care to read anymore of this trilogy.
The scene that started the downward spiral of disappointment for me is that the Hero spies the two sisters (eventually sister #3 joins them) while they are bathing naked in a lake/pond or something. He isn't alone, of course his buddy is with him and we get the gist that the Hero is there to choose a bride among the sisters. That doesn't bother me, I like reading about marriages of convenience that turn to love, but what I don't like is hearing the Hero along with his friend get hard-ons for the sisters. They basically make douche bag comments about how their both hot and basically interchangable. I get their attractive but there is something just wrong about your guy lusting after your sister(s) and you in the same breathe. I like a distinct line between rival attractions and I don't like reading about it happening between sisters.
Another thing that I didn't like was that the Hero doesn't really do anything endearing or sweeet to win his lady. He basically bullies her and threatens her and belittles her character because she chooses to be different. I never could trust his affection or declaration of love because it all seemed centered on the sex. I often wondered if the younger sister hadn't been timid and thus no longer stirred him sexually and if the middle sister hadn't disappeared for a large chunk of the story, would he have remained in love/lust exclusively with the heroine? There was nothing that showed me he wouldn't have traded her in for someone else it there was someone available. He pretty much proved it when he groped that maid in the closet - there he only stopped because of his pride, not so much for respect or guilt over the heroine/wife.
I don't care to read anymore of this trilogy.
February 18, 2014
This was one tough wench!
What an entertaining read this turned out to be!! I thought it would be just another cheesy freebie, but oh how wrong I was. This book has it all:
* A strong heroine
* A creative plot unlike anything I have read before
* A hot alpha male with some heart
* Sword fighting princesses who play by their own rules
* Excitement (I never once grew tiresome of this plot)
* No insta-love - it was nice seeing a relationship develop over time
* It even managed to have some humorous moments
I was incredibly impressed with this read! It was just fun and one of a kind. Throw in the fact it was offered as a freebie and I am one happy camper! I can't recommend this enough!
What an entertaining read this turned out to be!! I thought it would be just another cheesy freebie, but oh how wrong I was. This book has it all:
* A strong heroine
* A creative plot unlike anything I have read before
* A hot alpha male with some heart
* Sword fighting princesses who play by their own rules
* Excitement (I never once grew tiresome of this plot)
* No insta-love - it was nice seeing a relationship develop over time
* It even managed to have some humorous moments
I was incredibly impressed with this read! It was just fun and one of a kind. Throw in the fact it was offered as a freebie and I am one happy camper! I can't recommend this enough!
February 20, 2017
DNF (10%)
The book starts off with the hero spying on the warrior sisters while they're bathing, which makes him regret he didn't bed a woman he met at his last stop.
When he's discovered, he blames the girls, for showing themselves so wantonly in public.
Shortly after that, he decides he'll imprison Deirdre for challenging him after she found him spying on them (as if the place didn't belong to her and her sisters until now, but him, by the way), and marry the quiet, innocent youngest sister, because she would be easy to manage and won't complain about him keeping as many mistresses as he pleases.
Please tell me, how could someone like this guy? How are we supposed to like him??!!
More reviews on my blog: Lipstick and Mocha
The book starts off with the hero spying on the warrior sisters while they're bathing, which makes him regret he didn't bed a woman he met at his last stop.
When he's discovered, he blames the girls, for showing themselves so wantonly in public.
Shortly after that, he decides he'll imprison Deirdre for challenging him after she found him spying on them (as if the place didn't belong to her and her sisters until now, but him, by the way), and marry the quiet, innocent youngest sister, because she would be easy to manage and won't complain about him keeping as many mistresses as he pleases.
Please tell me, how could someone like this guy? How are we supposed to like him??!!
More reviews on my blog: Lipstick and Mocha
January 4, 2023
This Scottish HR was quite a bit of fun. Yes, it is unrealistic- warrior maids? Really?
Suspend your disbelief! I enjoyed the two MCs, and the hero's efforts to win over his bride were by turns hilarious and sweet, especially as they went against everything he had ever done before in the winning-the-girl department. Yes, he was arrogant and domineering, but Deidre led him a merry dance.
I was in the mood for something light and easy, and this definitely did the job.
Suspend your disbelief! I enjoyed the two MCs, and the hero's efforts to win over his bride were by turns hilarious and sweet, especially as they went against everything he had ever done before in the winning-the-girl department. Yes, he was arrogant and domineering, but Deidre led him a merry dance.
I was in the mood for something light and easy, and this definitely did the job.
July 11, 2017
Deirdre is one of three sisters known as the Warrior Maids of Rivenloch. Good with the sword and other implements of war, she defends Castle Rivenloch along side her sister, Helena. Deirdre, being the oldest, feels she must sacrifice herself as bride to the conquering Normans.
Sir Pagan of Cameliard with his Norman knights have come at the King's request to secure Castle Rivenloch from the renegade English. Pagan doesn't believe in maidens fighting in battle. When he claims stewardship of the castle, he also claims his bride among the Warrior Maids of Rivenloch.
Deirdre and Pagan's Norman-Scots battle rears its head in the marriage bed as well as the castle proper. He plans a patient seige campaign of his wife. But will the campaign work or will they remain warriors to the bitter end? What will happen when the English attack? Will the Warrior Maids of Rivenloch fight beside the Knights of Cameliard?
I found this novel captivating. Deirdre and Pagan, along side the secondary characters Helena, Colin and Muriel, were well drawn and compelling. The plot and subplots kept the reader turning pages. The pace was just right for the action. I look forward to the next book by Glynnis Campbell.
Sir Pagan of Cameliard with his Norman knights have come at the King's request to secure Castle Rivenloch from the renegade English. Pagan doesn't believe in maidens fighting in battle. When he claims stewardship of the castle, he also claims his bride among the Warrior Maids of Rivenloch.
Deirdre and Pagan's Norman-Scots battle rears its head in the marriage bed as well as the castle proper. He plans a patient seige campaign of his wife. But will the campaign work or will they remain warriors to the bitter end? What will happen when the English attack? Will the Warrior Maids of Rivenloch fight beside the Knights of Cameliard?
I found this novel captivating. Deirdre and Pagan, along side the secondary characters Helena, Colin and Muriel, were well drawn and compelling. The plot and subplots kept the reader turning pages. The pace was just right for the action. I look forward to the next book by Glynnis Campbell.
September 3, 2017
Great fun to be had in this detail-laden romance set in a Scots Borders castle. The three daughters of the laird are stewarding the castle Rivenloch as their elderly father becomes increasingly bewildered. The King of Scotland however decides that a Norman knight and his troop must be sent to hold the castle against English invaders, and this means marrying the knight to any of the girls in order that her people will be loyal. All does not go smoothly. A bit confusing as the Normans ruled England at this time.
The tale follows sword-wielding Deirdre, eldest and chatelaine, who grudgingly weds Pagan and refuses to bed him. The sexual tensions are played out through their armed sparring bouts and disagreements, Deirdre hating to give up commander status and her troops wary of the newcomers. This is an adult romance with moderate strong language in keeping with the times.
I love all the medieval Scots references, like 'packed as tight as a barrel of herring' which was very tight indeed, the Normans introducing Toledo steel swords from Spain, which were the finest in the world, and I've seen a trebuchet fired at Warwick Castle so I go along with the description of its power.
As the book has been out a while the author may not mind my being picky. Someone says his parents died suddenly of a murrain. This was a cattle disease associated with the wet cold weather of the Little Ice Age particularly, but generally affecting livestock across Europe. I suppose the parents might have died of hunger after their sheep or cattle died, but it seems to be stretching it for their son to say this when a fever, ague or pox (meaning smallpox) would answer.
Also a few times people go to the buttery for cheese or notice the smell of cheese there. Again, it's always possible cheese was temporarily put there on this occasion, but a buttery was not a dairy. The Norman French terms pantry and buttery, found in any castle, including Rivenloch, come from pain and bouttaile, bread and bottles. Pantry for prepared food and buttery for ale, wine, mead etc. The Butler ran the buttery and decanted the drink from casks into flagons for serving. See 'In Search of Chester's Medieval Castle' by Philip Jones for more detail.
Don't mind me, enjoy the swordfights and growing romance. The next books will focus on each of the other sisters.
This is an unbiased review.
The tale follows sword-wielding Deirdre, eldest and chatelaine, who grudgingly weds Pagan and refuses to bed him. The sexual tensions are played out through their armed sparring bouts and disagreements, Deirdre hating to give up commander status and her troops wary of the newcomers. This is an adult romance with moderate strong language in keeping with the times.
I love all the medieval Scots references, like 'packed as tight as a barrel of herring' which was very tight indeed, the Normans introducing Toledo steel swords from Spain, which were the finest in the world, and I've seen a trebuchet fired at Warwick Castle so I go along with the description of its power.
As the book has been out a while the author may not mind my being picky. Someone says his parents died suddenly of a murrain. This was a cattle disease associated with the wet cold weather of the Little Ice Age particularly, but generally affecting livestock across Europe. I suppose the parents might have died of hunger after their sheep or cattle died, but it seems to be stretching it for their son to say this when a fever, ague or pox (meaning smallpox) would answer.
Also a few times people go to the buttery for cheese or notice the smell of cheese there. Again, it's always possible cheese was temporarily put there on this occasion, but a buttery was not a dairy. The Norman French terms pantry and buttery, found in any castle, including Rivenloch, come from pain and bouttaile, bread and bottles. Pantry for prepared food and buttery for ale, wine, mead etc. The Butler ran the buttery and decanted the drink from casks into flagons for serving. See 'In Search of Chester's Medieval Castle' by Philip Jones for more detail.
Don't mind me, enjoy the swordfights and growing romance. The next books will focus on each of the other sisters.
This is an unbiased review.
April 26, 2018
Siamo in Scozia, sulla frontiera. È l’estate del 1136, Sir Pagan Cameliard ha ricevuto l’ordine di Re David di recarsi e Rivenloch. Il castello è di proprietà di Lord Gellir. Il vecchio gentiluomo è molto debole, sconvolto nell’animo dalla morte della sua amata moglie, Lady Edwina. Lord Gellis non ha un erede ma solo tre figlie Deirdre, Helena e Miriel. Sir Pagan deve sposarne una per prendere possesso del castello che si trova in una posizione strategica importante. L’ordine del re è la sua priorità e non importa quale delle tre sposerà, una vale l’altra, le donne sono tutte uguali. Questo pensa Sir Pagan prima di arrivare a Rivenloch. Al castello scoprirà di essersi sbagliato in molti modi. A Rivenloch troverà tre donne particolari, quasi fuori dal loro tempo, tre ragazze straordinarie, determinate e coraggiose, che combattono ognuna a suo modo per salvare le terre di famiglia e la vita di tutti i membri della comunità.
Scoprirà che nessuna donna è uguale all’altra e che solo una particolare ragazza è in grado di catturare il suo interesse. La conoscenza e il rapporto con questa creatura straordinaria non saranno facili all’inizio. Sir Pagan dovrà impegnarsi molto per conquistare la fiducia e l’amore di Deirdre, dovrà usare tutta la pazienza disponibile e cambiare ogni sua certezza nell’idea generale del rapporto con l’altro sesso. Le ragazze di Rivenloch non sono uguali a nessun’altra donna del tempo.
Il libro è molto carino, la storia propone un rapporto diverso e molto interessante tra i protagonisti, le loro schermaglie dialettiche sono davvero divertenti. La narrazione è molto scorrevole, appassionante e ricca di azione. Tutti i personaggi, specialmente quelli femminili, sono delineati con carattere, personalità e coraggio. Una lettura spassosa e piacevole che consiglio. Credo che leggerò anche le storie di Helena e Miriel
E.L. CORNER - per RFS
Scoprirà che nessuna donna è uguale all’altra e che solo una particolare ragazza è in grado di catturare il suo interesse. La conoscenza e il rapporto con questa creatura straordinaria non saranno facili all’inizio. Sir Pagan dovrà impegnarsi molto per conquistare la fiducia e l’amore di Deirdre, dovrà usare tutta la pazienza disponibile e cambiare ogni sua certezza nell’idea generale del rapporto con l’altro sesso. Le ragazze di Rivenloch non sono uguali a nessun’altra donna del tempo.
Il libro è molto carino, la storia propone un rapporto diverso e molto interessante tra i protagonisti, le loro schermaglie dialettiche sono davvero divertenti. La narrazione è molto scorrevole, appassionante e ricca di azione. Tutti i personaggi, specialmente quelli femminili, sono delineati con carattere, personalità e coraggio. Una lettura spassosa e piacevole che consiglio. Credo che leggerò anche le storie di Helena e Miriel
E.L. CORNER - per RFS
August 16, 2016
Re-Read
Taste Have Changed And Now I Hate It.
Safety Gang
Taste Have Changed And Now I Hate It.
Safety Gang
May 9, 2018
· “Marriage was man and wife, side by side as they were now, sharing life’s adventures and battling its challenges…together. It was an alliance forged of the finest steel, tempered in the fires of adversity, and thus blessed by unrivaled strength.” ·
Let me start by saying…
This was so much better than I anticipated! I’m gonna go ahead and confess that what I love the most about Historical Romance as a genre is that it’s full of clichés and it rarely ever lets me down. I know I’m gonna have some adventures, some laughs and a lot of “aw” moments. I know I’m not gonna have to do a lot of thinking or a lot of emotional processing, which is why I choose these novels when I’m swamped with work or just can’t deal with “heavier” reads.
Anyways, back to Lady Danger (which you can and SHOULD get for free on Amazon), let’s start with the biggest cliché breaker—cover and blurp already anticipate damsels that, far from being in distress, are wearing shinning armours and willing to fight and die for those they love ♥
This is true to the point that even the sister that seems more “fragile” ends up being a complete bad-ass and I would completely enjoy to read their stories!
When Deirdre marries Pagan to protect her younger (“fragile”) sister from a marriage without love, she’ll find herself fighting the heardest battles—proving her husband that she’s cut out for the battlefield and not giving in to the strange feelings he awakes in her… especially when he kisses her.
On his behave, Pagan fears for his wife’s life and strongly believes a woman’s place is not in the arena. He’s commited to keep Deirdre safe… even if that means breaking her most precious belonging to keep her from sparring—her sword.
As I said, this book was most enjoyable and if you’re into the genre and would like a refreshing twist or two, this is definitely for you
Let me start by saying…
This was so much better than I anticipated! I’m gonna go ahead and confess that what I love the most about Historical Romance as a genre is that it’s full of clichés and it rarely ever lets me down. I know I’m gonna have some adventures, some laughs and a lot of “aw” moments. I know I’m not gonna have to do a lot of thinking or a lot of emotional processing, which is why I choose these novels when I’m swamped with work or just can’t deal with “heavier” reads.
Anyways, back to Lady Danger (which you can and SHOULD get for free on Amazon), let’s start with the biggest cliché breaker—cover and blurp already anticipate damsels that, far from being in distress, are wearing shinning armours and willing to fight and die for those they love ♥
This is true to the point that even the sister that seems more “fragile” ends up being a complete bad-ass and I would completely enjoy to read their stories!
When Deirdre marries Pagan to protect her younger (“fragile”) sister from a marriage without love, she’ll find herself fighting the heardest battles—proving her husband that she’s cut out for the battlefield and not giving in to the strange feelings he awakes in her… especially when he kisses her.
On his behave, Pagan fears for his wife’s life and strongly believes a woman’s place is not in the arena. He’s commited to keep Deirdre safe… even if that means breaking her most precious belonging to keep her from sparring—her sword.
As I said, this book was most enjoyable and if you’re into the genre and would like a refreshing twist or two, this is definitely for you
February 28, 2014
Deidre of Rivenloch is one of the most compelling, kick ass, medieval heroines that I have EVER come across. Not only has she spent her entire life defending her family in their remote Scottish castle but she is now faced with the prospect of having to reluctantly dupe the shagtastic Sir Pagan Cameliard into marriage in order to spare her younger sister from the ordeal of marrying him. ORDEAL. What ordeal? This guy is absolutely oozing sex appeal!
Unlike a lot of the hastily written bodice rippers which currently dominate this chunk of the romantic fiction market, Campbell has successfully written a book which is not only well plotted, but absolutely brimming with characters that literally jump out of the page and grab you. I even found the serving wenches to be feisty and interesting and thought they could easily have carried significant sub-plots on their own.
I LOVED Deidre's relationship with Pagan as well as her two sisters. I read this book in one go last night and cannot wait to read the next two books in the series about her two sisters.
The ONLY thing that I found fault with, and to be fair it actually made me chuckle was the author's use of the word "Ballocks." Being Californian, I guess she wasn't to know that the correct expression is actually "Bollocks." I also could have maybe done without the use of the word "shite" as while it is frequently used in modern day Scotland, I am not entirely convinced it would have been common place in the twelfth century! As a brief aside, I am also confused why if the author is writing under a pseudonym, i.e Sarah McKerrigan she puts her own name first?? Surely the whole point of using a different name is so that you don't use your own name????
Anyway, download these books if you get a chance... Also make sure that you look out for "The Shipwreck The Warrior Maids of Rivenloch Novella" which charts the tale of a lusty Viking and dates back to a time before the three sisters as it is currently free on Amazon.
Unlike a lot of the hastily written bodice rippers which currently dominate this chunk of the romantic fiction market, Campbell has successfully written a book which is not only well plotted, but absolutely brimming with characters that literally jump out of the page and grab you. I even found the serving wenches to be feisty and interesting and thought they could easily have carried significant sub-plots on their own.
I LOVED Deidre's relationship with Pagan as well as her two sisters. I read this book in one go last night and cannot wait to read the next two books in the series about her two sisters.
The ONLY thing that I found fault with, and to be fair it actually made me chuckle was the author's use of the word "Ballocks." Being Californian, I guess she wasn't to know that the correct expression is actually "Bollocks." I also could have maybe done without the use of the word "shite" as while it is frequently used in modern day Scotland, I am not entirely convinced it would have been common place in the twelfth century! As a brief aside, I am also confused why if the author is writing under a pseudonym, i.e Sarah McKerrigan she puts her own name first?? Surely the whole point of using a different name is so that you don't use your own name????
Anyway, download these books if you get a chance... Also make sure that you look out for "The Shipwreck The Warrior Maids of Rivenloch Novella" which charts the tale of a lusty Viking and dates back to a time before the three sisters as it is currently free on Amazon.
March 14, 2020
Amazing read!
February 14, 2014
GENRE: Historical Romance
SETTING: 12th century Scotland; Norman invaders
CENTRAL FEMALE CHARACTERS: (3) sisters; Deirdre, known for deceit and evasion fighting tactics; Helena is strong and quick with weapons; Miriel, a gentle spirit that prefers to take care of the matters of the home.
CENTRAL MALE CHARACTER: Pagan, an arrogant Norman and a quick and clever fighter. Colin, Pagan’s best friend, is humorous but also dangerous with weapons .
SYNOPSIS: He has come to Rivenloch to be the new Steward and husband to one of the 3 daughters but two of the 3 sisters have other plans for the taking over of Rivenloch .
SEXUAL EXPLICITNESS: (12) cocks; (6) nipples. Some oral sex. Some sucking of breasts. I found passion, not XXXXX and double X.
WHAT I LIKED: “The Shadow”. Annulment (I can only guess). Reciting the alphabet backwards.
WHAT I DID NOT LIKE: Author over the top about Deirdre’s fighting capabilities. A little tiresome.
I give this book (FIVE) stars because a really great romance read with a nice “I like know my direction without you having to show me there. As with its predecessor, “ The Shipwreck”, this book is on my list of favs and will be a re-read.
SETTING: 12th century Scotland; Norman invaders
CENTRAL FEMALE CHARACTERS: (3) sisters; Deirdre, known for deceit and evasion fighting tactics; Helena is strong and quick with weapons; Miriel, a gentle spirit that prefers to take care of the matters of the home.
CENTRAL MALE CHARACTER: Pagan, an arrogant Norman and a quick and clever fighter. Colin, Pagan’s best friend, is humorous but also dangerous with weapons .
SYNOPSIS: He has come to Rivenloch to be the new Steward and husband to one of the 3 daughters but two of the 3 sisters have other plans for the taking over of Rivenloch .
SEXUAL EXPLICITNESS: (12) cocks; (6) nipples. Some oral sex. Some sucking of breasts. I found passion, not XXXXX and double X.
WHAT I LIKED: “The Shadow”. Annulment (I can only guess). Reciting the alphabet backwards.
WHAT I DID NOT LIKE: Author over the top about Deirdre’s fighting capabilities. A little tiresome.
I give this book (FIVE) stars because a really great romance read with a nice “I like know my direction without you having to show me there. As with its predecessor, “ The Shipwreck”, this book is on my list of favs and will be a re-read.
March 3, 2015
This is the first book I've read by this author, and is set in Scotland. I've thoroughly enjoyed the story of Deirdre a Warrior maid, she was taught to fight as good as any knight by her father. She and her two sisters run their fathers keep and lands, as his grieving for the loss of their mother and age has taken it's toll on him. The keep is in a prominent position and needs to be kept under Scots rule, it can't fall to the English. The King gives the keep and lands to the care and protection of a noble knight Pagan. There is just one thing Pagan must do to secure this position, marry one of the Warrior maids. The youngest daughter agrees to marry him, trying to protect her older sisters. Deirdre has other plans.
I absolutely loved the sisters, the older two were not your average maid, and men certainly underestimated them. They didn't take kindly to Pagan and his men invading their Keep. So funny at times, the story just had me hooked from page one. I am certainly going to read the next book.
I absolutely loved the sisters, the older two were not your average maid, and men certainly underestimated them. They didn't take kindly to Pagan and his men invading their Keep. So funny at times, the story just had me hooked from page one. I am certainly going to read the next book.
February 27, 2017
I'm not saying you won't like this, but I recommend making sure you're a misogynist before you get into this.
If you believe, a wife should by no means her husbands equal and leave handling her life, reponsibilities and body to her husband to decide what to do with them, this book is for you.
The rape is spot on, the emotional abuse is perfect and the male lead is to die for, if the abusive brute is your type.
Honestly, do yourself a favor and don't spent your money on this.
If you do, make sure to have enough feminist literature at hand, to cure yourself of the cancer that is this book after reading it.
If you believe, a wife should by no means her husbands equal and leave handling her life, reponsibilities and body to her husband to decide what to do with them, this book is for you.
The rape is spot on, the emotional abuse is perfect and the male lead is to die for, if the abusive brute is your type.
Honestly, do yourself a favor and don't spent your money on this.
If you do, make sure to have enough feminist literature at hand, to cure yourself of the cancer that is this book after reading it.
April 21, 2020
No puedo estar más contenta de haberle dado esta nota a este libro. Lleva en mi casa unos añitos ya y la verdad es que lo compré porque era de 2ª mano, highlanders y me encantó la edición. Me parecen unas portadas preciosas y unos lomos moniiiiiiisimos -sí, muy superficial-. Pero, claro, seamos sinceros, yo sólo podía pensar: ay madre como sea una de estas chorradas de highlanders machistas y cansinos que me ponen negra... No me los quedo ni muerta, con lo bonicos que son. Y NO, me los voy a quedar y los voy a recomendar. Y SOY MUY FELIS.
Tenemos a un par de guerreras, Deirdre y Helena, que desde pequeñas han tenido potestad en su clan para mandar, aprender a combatir, defender su castillo, salir a cazar... en su pueblo lo ven como algo normal y todas los respetan. Y luego está Miriel, la pequeña, que es toda una damita. Me ha gustado la diferencia entre las 3, porque luego resultará que Miriel con toda esa templanza, sacará carácter y la voy a amar -lo sé-.
Entonces con este inicio, llegan al clan un par de soldados normandos con sus guerreros para sellar una unión. Sir Pagan tiene que casarse con una de las hijas, y Deirdre y Helena hacen todo lo posble para que la elegida no sea Miriel. Así que finalmente Pagan se casa con Deirdre.
Este libro es el ejemplo perfecto que se puede escribir sobre una época profundamente machista, según quién la mire obviamente -ya que hay suficientes vestigios e información sobre la situación de la mujer en los clanes escoceses y en general en la mitología celta, mucho más allá de lo que era normal en otros mundos contemporáneos europeos supuestamente más civilizados-, y no romantizar mierdas. Pagan se casa con Deirdre, pero desde la primera noche le dice que no va a tocarla sin su consentimiento. Y lo hace. A raíz de eso, le pide un beso al día, y la va seduciendo poco a poco. Obviamente se pelean, pero también conversan. Aprenden el uno del otro, se conocen. Hay un pequeño momento en que Pagan rompe un poco su corazón haciendo algo que casi me hizo llorar, pero errar es humano, y luego se disculpa y "subsana" el error.
Es una historia bonita. Con 2 personajes muy interesantes y bien construidos. Con secundarios que aportan sin ser un cliché con patas. Sin que aparezca la secundaria putilla de turno a interferir. Con momentos de acción y momentos de pasión. Con un pequeño avance de lo que será el siguiente libro, pero sin darte casi apenas nada, lo justo para pillarte. Y personalmente, he disfrutado mucho de Pagan y Deirdre y cómo evoluciona su relación.
Deseando estoy de leer el siguiente.
Tenemos a un par de guerreras, Deirdre y Helena, que desde pequeñas han tenido potestad en su clan para mandar, aprender a combatir, defender su castillo, salir a cazar... en su pueblo lo ven como algo normal y todas los respetan. Y luego está Miriel, la pequeña, que es toda una damita. Me ha gustado la diferencia entre las 3, porque luego resultará que Miriel con toda esa templanza, sacará carácter y la voy a amar -lo sé-.
Entonces con este inicio, llegan al clan un par de soldados normandos con sus guerreros para sellar una unión. Sir Pagan tiene que casarse con una de las hijas, y Deirdre y Helena hacen todo lo posble para que la elegida no sea Miriel. Así que finalmente Pagan se casa con Deirdre.
Este libro es el ejemplo perfecto que se puede escribir sobre una época profundamente machista, según quién la mire obviamente -ya que hay suficientes vestigios e información sobre la situación de la mujer en los clanes escoceses y en general en la mitología celta, mucho más allá de lo que era normal en otros mundos contemporáneos europeos supuestamente más civilizados-, y no romantizar mierdas. Pagan se casa con Deirdre, pero desde la primera noche le dice que no va a tocarla sin su consentimiento. Y lo hace. A raíz de eso, le pide un beso al día, y la va seduciendo poco a poco. Obviamente se pelean, pero también conversan. Aprenden el uno del otro, se conocen. Hay un pequeño momento en que Pagan rompe un poco su corazón haciendo algo que casi me hizo llorar, pero errar es humano, y luego se disculpa y "subsana" el error.
Es una historia bonita. Con 2 personajes muy interesantes y bien construidos. Con secundarios que aportan sin ser un cliché con patas. Sin que aparezca la secundaria putilla de turno a interferir. Con momentos de acción y momentos de pasión. Con un pequeño avance de lo que será el siguiente libro, pero sin darte casi apenas nada, lo justo para pillarte. Y personalmente, he disfrutado mucho de Pagan y Deirdre y cómo evoluciona su relación.
Deseando estoy de leer el siguiente.
March 26, 2021
Ogni tanto vado di lettura trashissima, e ogni volta mi trovo piegata in due dal ridere.
Per un romance la trama poteva pure starci ma gli eventi che si susseguono sembrano presi da Wattapad. Eh niente almeno fa ridere.
Per un romance la trama poteva pure starci ma gli eventi che si susseguono sembrano presi da Wattapad. Eh niente almeno fa ridere.
January 11, 2023
Es una novela cursi, pero a ratos es divertida y entretenida. Aunque es muy predecible, para desconectar un rato de lecturas pedantoras esta relativamente bien.
November 14, 2015
I have a bit of a love / hate relationship going on with this book. There are moments of brilliance in this book that had me so emotionally invested in the Hero/heroine, that it was truly beautiful. The way that Pagan finally breaks through Deidre's defenses and wins her heart was truly lovely and the tender moments they shared together were well worth the frustrations I experienced with other aspects of the story. A great hero will carry me through a book, and Pagan certainly did that for me. I was completely on his side in the battle of wills between H/h. Kudos to the author for that.
So here comes the hate part - I absolutely despised Deidre for more than half of the book. I seriously considered stopping mid-way. She was childish and self-centered and thought way too highly of herself. Her decisions were rash and her choices were poor - but she considered herself a great leader. Ha - stupid wench. And I think her actions were completely inconsistent with how she viewed herself. She wanted to believe she was as worthy as any male warrior, and she prided herself on being straight-forward and honest. Yet she tricked Pagan into marrying her and then she refused to let him bed her. A truly honorable Scotswoman who entered into a marriage of her own will would have done her duty and consummated the marriage. What Deidre did was not honorable in any way, shape or form. Pagan, on the other hand, was completely honorable and trustworthy. So it pissed me off the way Deidre treated him, and for one of the very first times ever I would have been absolutely OKAY with the hero if he had swived another woman. That says a lot, because I normally go ballistic if there is cheating in a relationship. More power to him, because Deidre was a selfish bitch who was full of herself. Alas, my hero was a true hero and weathered the storm.
Enter into this story at your own peril - but if you don't like heroines that act immature, you might want to steer clear of this one. I can't say I'm sorry I read it though, because the parts that are great are really, really great.
So here comes the hate part - I absolutely despised Deidre for more than half of the book. I seriously considered stopping mid-way. She was childish and self-centered and thought way too highly of herself. Her decisions were rash and her choices were poor - but she considered herself a great leader. Ha - stupid wench. And I think her actions were completely inconsistent with how she viewed herself. She wanted to believe she was as worthy as any male warrior, and she prided herself on being straight-forward and honest. Yet she tricked Pagan into marrying her and then she refused to let him bed her. A truly honorable Scotswoman who entered into a marriage of her own will would have done her duty and consummated the marriage. What Deidre did was not honorable in any way, shape or form. Pagan, on the other hand, was completely honorable and trustworthy. So it pissed me off the way Deidre treated him, and for one of the very first times ever I would have been absolutely OKAY with the hero if he had swived another woman. That says a lot, because I normally go ballistic if there is cheating in a relationship. More power to him, because Deidre was a selfish bitch who was full of herself. Alas, my hero was a true hero and weathered the storm.
Enter into this story at your own peril - but if you don't like heroines that act immature, you might want to steer clear of this one. I can't say I'm sorry I read it though, because the parts that are great are really, really great.
April 26, 2018
This book in one sentence: Fierce scottish warrior Deirdre becomes engaged to Sir Pagan Cameliard, a norman knight who doesn't believe women should be allowed to fight; sparks ensue.
My rating: ⭐⭐
Steaminess: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Would I recommend: If you're really into historical romances, sure? It's not typically my favourite genre, but this one was available for free on Kobo. Be prepared for the overuse of the word "loins" and this kind of sex scene: "Like a pinecone exploding upon the fire, his body seemed to burst into a hundred bright sparks. The heat was excruciating, unbearable. Yet he craved its purifying fire.".
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, insta-lust, racist caricature of an asian elder who just spurts words of wisdom, somehow pregnant after a few days...
Content warnings: questionnable consent during sex scenes
My rating: ⭐⭐
Steaminess: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Would I recommend: If you're really into historical romances, sure? It's not typically my favourite genre, but this one was available for free on Kobo. Be prepared for the overuse of the word "loins" and this kind of sex scene: "Like a pinecone exploding upon the fire, his body seemed to burst into a hundred bright sparks. The heat was excruciating, unbearable. Yet he craved its purifying fire.".
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, insta-lust, racist caricature of an asian elder who just spurts words of wisdom, somehow pregnant after a few days...
Content warnings: questionnable consent during sex scenes
Read
July 13, 2014I couldn't finish this, sadly. The premise (warrior women in medieval Scotland!) is great. However...
The sex scene chapter is sooooo far out of my comfort zone when it comes to consent issues. The protagonist says "no." Then she's coerced into continuing because her husband has a right to her body. While this was true at the time, and he's probably a nice guy by the cultural standards of the day, I got way too much values dissonance for a supposedly sexy scene in a fluffy romance novel. If this were meant to be a dark and creepy moment where we're exposed to our "hero's" true character, then I'd be all over something like this. But it isn't.
I might try to pick up the book again later (after skipping the sex), but right now I'm too disturbed by what seems to be a rape-in-progress.
The sex scene chapter is sooooo far out of my comfort zone when it comes to consent issues. The protagonist says "no." Then she's coerced into continuing because her husband has a right to her body. While this was true at the time, and he's probably a nice guy by the cultural standards of the day, I got way too much values dissonance for a supposedly sexy scene in a fluffy romance novel. If this were meant to be a dark and creepy moment where we're exposed to our "hero's" true character, then I'd be all over something like this. But it isn't.
I might try to pick up the book again later (after skipping the sex), but right now I'm too disturbed by what seems to be a rape-in-progress.
April 24, 2013
Holy Wow! Finished up this baby last night. I did stay up later than I intended but that's okay because this book was worth the loss of sleep.
I give this one five fantastic stars! Glynnis Campbell is a talented author and I am already started on the second one in this series. First time I've read anything by her. I HIGHLY recommend this book if you like Scottish romances.
The characters absolutely smolder on the pages and the chemistry is stellar. To say the hero is yummy is an understatement. Seriously. *swoon* Give this one a go. You will not regret it.
I give this one five fantastic stars! Glynnis Campbell is a talented author and I am already started on the second one in this series. First time I've read anything by her. I HIGHLY recommend this book if you like Scottish romances.
The characters absolutely smolder on the pages and the chemistry is stellar. To say the hero is yummy is an understatement. Seriously. *swoon* Give this one a go. You will not regret it.
May 21, 2021
What a silly book. I mean this lovingly.
Modern historical romance writers seem to me to lack the research and accuracy that their predecessors used.
That being said, this is purely fluff, enjoyable only for its silliness. These characters act very modern. The writing is full of anachronisms. Dumb fun, but dumb nonetheless.
Modern historical romance writers seem to me to lack the research and accuracy that their predecessors used.
That being said, this is purely fluff, enjoyable only for its silliness. These characters act very modern. The writing is full of anachronisms. Dumb fun, but dumb nonetheless.
October 8, 2015
Pagan and Deirdre are my new favorite book couple. I loved this story and can not wait to read the rest of the series. All of the characters are unique and entertaining and the pacing of the plot is excellent. I highly recommend this read!!
November 22, 2015
Awesome!
September 22, 2020
SO GOOD! Best historical romance I’ve read in a while. A Norman knight is sent to marry one of 3 sisters (didn’t matter which) and become lord of a small castle in a deal between the French and Scottish kings to hold the land against the British. The sisters were raised by their Viking-descendant father to battle. The sisters have been running the castle and leading their small band of knights for some time and don't feel the need for a husband, let alone a new lord for their tiny castle. Total enemies to lover awesomeness!
This is steamy, so not for those who like clean romance, but it's also not a sex romp guised in historical dressing. The details seem well researched and the character arcs for both the heroine and hero were independent of the romance.
I'm continuing on with the series and this author. :)
This is steamy, so not for those who like clean romance, but it's also not a sex romp guised in historical dressing. The details seem well researched and the character arcs for both the heroine and hero were independent of the romance.
I'm continuing on with the series and this author. :)
May 20, 2020
Highland Romance
Entertaining book albeit somewhat one tracked.
The Norman warrior Pagan had been given Rivenloch and his pick of the keeps three beautiful daughters by King David. The combat-trained maidens were not particularly pliable to his suit, fights and cunning ensued and it was an engaging read. However, the plot mainly evolved around would they/wouldn't they have sex? It gets boring after a while and our heroine had a few too many tantrums but both hero and heroine were strong characters and I appreciate that...
A skirmish with the English towards the end was entertaining.
Worthwhile!
Rated: Mature
Entertaining book albeit somewhat one tracked.
The Norman warrior Pagan had been given Rivenloch and his pick of the keeps three beautiful daughters by King David. The combat-trained maidens were not particularly pliable to his suit, fights and cunning ensued and it was an engaging read. However, the plot mainly evolved around would they/wouldn't they have sex? It gets boring after a while and our heroine had a few too many tantrums but both hero and heroine were strong characters and I appreciate that...
A skirmish with the English towards the end was entertaining.
Worthwhile!
Rated: Mature
January 15, 2023
Deirdre's naivety goes on and on and on until it's beyond ridiculous. I'm all for historical novels touting women's empowerment out of time, but the idea that a 10th-century noblewoman has no clue how marriage and dowries work and possession of a motherfucking castle now belonging to her husband by right, is ludicrous. She is simply SHOCKED that her new husband takes over. Were you hit on your head during your mock battles? Pagan is a man (and all the nonsense that entails) and a fine book hero; She dumb. So dumb in fact, she falls headfirst into finally consumating her marriage, just because Pagan played her right into his hand. She soooo dumb. Even Chapter 21 shows how dumb the author think Deidre is 😂
But it's cute too.
But it's cute too.
October 1, 2017
I liked how stubborn Deirdre was and I can only imagine how she felt making the sacrifice to marry Pagan, who's a Norman. From early on she didn't relinquish control and while she was sometimes unreasonable, it's really endearing because she's strong-willed with conviction.
Pagan was an Alpha male without being an ass. Sure at first he underestimated Deirdre and Helena but eventually she earned his respect because of her ferocity and Loyalty.
I was really excited about the battle scenes and since this is the first book set in Rivenloch, I'm interested in the possibilities of the sisters, specially Miriel who's meek and mild, but definitely has a lot going for her. I'm off to read the next!
Pagan was an Alpha male without being an ass. Sure at first he underestimated Deirdre and Helena but eventually she earned his respect because of her ferocity and Loyalty.
I was really excited about the battle scenes and since this is the first book set in Rivenloch, I'm interested in the possibilities of the sisters, specially Miriel who's meek and mild, but definitely has a lot going for her. I'm off to read the next!
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