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MacGruder Brothers #3
His Conquest
The Only Man Who Could Save Her...
Linet Dancort will not be sold. But that's essentially what her brother intends to do - to trade her like so much chattel to widen his already vast scope of influence. Linet will seize any opportunity to escape her fate - and opportunity comes in the form of a rebel prisoner locked in her brother's dungeon, predatory and fearsome, and sentenced to hang in the morning.
Would First Need Saving Himself...
Seathan MacGruder, Earl of Grey, is not unused to cheating death. But even this legendary Scottish warrior is surprised when a beautiful Englishwoman creeps to his cell and offers him his freedom. What Linet wants in exchange, though - safe passage to the Highlands - is a steep price to pay. For the only thing more dangerous than the journey through embattled Scotland is the desire that smolders between these two fugitives the first time they touch...
328 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 1, 2010
86 people are currently reading
340 people want to read
About the author
Diana Cosby
22 books329 followers A retired Navy Chief, Diana Cosby is an international bestselling author of Scottish medieval romantic suspense. Books in her award-winning MacGruder Brothers series are translated in five languages. Diana has spoken at the Library of Congress, Lady Jane’s Salon in NYC, and appeared in Woman’s Day, on USA Today’s romance blog, “Happy Ever After,” MSN.com, Atlantic County Women Magazine, and Texoma Living Magazine.
After her career in the Navy, Diana dove into her passion – writing romance novels. With 34 moves behind her, she was anxious to create characters who reflected the amazing cultures and people she’s met throughout the world. With the release of her 1st book in her new Scottish medieval The Oath Trilogy, An Oath Taken, which hit bestseller lists in Canada and the United Kingdom, as well as the release of the e Box Set of the MacGruder Brothers series, she’s now preparing for the last two books in The Oath trilogy, An Oath Broken – 22 June, and, An Oath Sworn – 23 December, 2015!
Diana looks forward to the years of writing ahead and meeting the amazing people who will share this journey.
After her career in the Navy, Diana dove into her passion – writing romance novels. With 34 moves behind her, she was anxious to create characters who reflected the amazing cultures and people she’s met throughout the world. With the release of her 1st book in her new Scottish medieval The Oath Trilogy, An Oath Taken, which hit bestseller lists in Canada and the United Kingdom, as well as the release of the e Box Set of the MacGruder Brothers series, she’s now preparing for the last two books in The Oath trilogy, An Oath Broken – 22 June, and, An Oath Sworn – 23 December, 2015!
Diana looks forward to the years of writing ahead and meeting the amazing people who will share this journey.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
May 4, 2015
"How had he ever been so blessed to have been gifted with her in his life?"
Plot:
Series - Grandmother's room in the tower is enchanted. The stones within would draw the one person meant for each of them, "a woman who would teach them to love and make them whole."
Book - Linet saves Seathen from the dungeon and certain death. But why? Can he trust her? Will he betray her? Will his actions destroy any possibility of a future between them?
Comments:
- Historical (medieval) romance. Scotland, 1297.
- 4428 kindle locations, 349 pages.
- m/f - explicit, but not frequent. First occurs late in the book. Caring.
- Book 3 of the series. There's a larger focus on Patrik, whose death occurred in Book 1, leading strongly into Book 4. However "His Conquest" would comfortably stand alone, or be read out of sequence.
- The history. Cosby has included references to historic events, with a heavy focus on Wallace and giving the reader the impression the MacGruder's have a pivotal role in Scotland's defence. I found it heavy handed.
Opinion:
There are a few things about this book I found difficult to accept:
- The dream sequence: "God's teeth, his making love to her had been a dream!". Really? Was that truly necessary?
- When they finally get together it's all "I believes you now! Let's do the wild thing". And she said yes. Honestly? Then? and There?
- He pushes her into the "I can force you to want me" and she lets her body over-rule her head. Argh! I'm not after a Modern Miss, but some consistency of character!
And these difficulties add up, and make it difficult to fully enjoy the clever story the author is trying to tell. I *want* to enjoy it. I *love* the stone story line. I like the characters, mostly. But it just tries too hard and drags on. Particularly when we are having history lessons forced down our throats.
So I keep on going, looking for the inspired within the dregs. I wish it were better. I wish the characters' from previous books, when they make their appearances, were more likeable (I liked them before, why are they so annoying now?). I wish the magic of the stones wasn't so forced. I wish the history was blended with the story rather than shoe-horned in. *sigh*
It could be so much better!
- The MacGruders -
Book 1 His Captive - Nichola and Alexander
Book 2 His Woman - Isabel and Duncan
Book 3 His Conquest - Linet and Seathen
Book 4 His Destiny - Emma and Patrik
Book 5 His Seduction - Griffin (Wulfe)
Book 6 His Enchantment - Catarine MacLaren MacGruder (Grandmother)
-CR-
Plot:
Series - Grandmother's room in the tower is enchanted. The stones within would draw the one person meant for each of them, "a woman who would teach them to love and make them whole."
Book - Linet saves Seathen from the dungeon and certain death. But why? Can he trust her? Will he betray her? Will his actions destroy any possibility of a future between them?
Comments:
- Historical (medieval) romance. Scotland, 1297.
- 4428 kindle locations, 349 pages.
- m/f - explicit, but not frequent. First occurs late in the book. Caring.
- Book 3 of the series. There's a larger focus on Patrik, whose death occurred in Book 1, leading strongly into Book 4. However "His Conquest" would comfortably stand alone, or be read out of sequence.
- The history. Cosby has included references to historic events, with a heavy focus on Wallace and giving the reader the impression the MacGruder's have a pivotal role in Scotland's defence. I found it heavy handed.
Opinion:
There are a few things about this book I found difficult to accept:
- The dream sequence: "God's teeth, his making love to her had been a dream!". Really? Was that truly necessary?
- When they finally get together it's all "I believes you now! Let's do the wild thing". And she said yes. Honestly? Then? and There?
- He pushes her into the "I can force you to want me" and she lets her body over-rule her head. Argh! I'm not after a Modern Miss, but some consistency of character!
And these difficulties add up, and make it difficult to fully enjoy the clever story the author is trying to tell. I *want* to enjoy it. I *love* the stone story line. I like the characters, mostly. But it just tries too hard and drags on. Particularly when we are having history lessons forced down our throats.
So I keep on going, looking for the inspired within the dregs. I wish it were better. I wish the characters' from previous books, when they make their appearances, were more likeable (I liked them before, why are they so annoying now?). I wish the magic of the stones wasn't so forced. I wish the history was blended with the story rather than shoe-horned in. *sigh*
It could be so much better!
- The MacGruders -
Book 1 His Captive - Nichola and Alexander
Book 2 His Woman - Isabel and Duncan
Book 3 His Conquest - Linet and Seathen
Book 4 His Destiny - Emma and Patrik
Book 5 His Seduction - Griffin (Wulfe)
Book 6 His Enchantment - Catarine MacLaren MacGruder (Grandmother)
-CR-
August 28, 2011
Lady Linet Dancourt is not a woman to stand idly by while her brother sells her for his own gain. Still, she has little hope of escaping her tyrannical brother and running away to the Highlands on her own. As luck would have it, her brother holds a man of great importance prisoner and Linet knows he is just the man to help her. She offers to release Seathan MacGruder, Earl of Grey and save him from being executed the next morn only if he agrees to escort her to the Highlands. This Scottish rebel is always a man of his word, but if he finds out the real connection Linet has to his sworn enemy, this hot passion they feel may die a cold death.
Diana Cosby has a wonderful talent for crafting a superb tale of romance and adventure. His Conquest is the kind of novel that captures your interest right at the start and doesn’t let go until you finish it. The suspense and drama throughout this novel make the story very interesting as well. It is a beautifully told story that captures the best aspects of a highlander romance.
The characters were absolutely lovable. Linet had the strength and determination of any great heroine and was an impressive match for the fierce Scotland warrior. It was easy to admire her spark and fiery spirt. Seathan was resilient, but gentle which was an irresistible combination. When facing his enemy he was fierce and unstoppable, but otherwise was a kind and honorable man. Both characters were perfectly charming and absolutely perfect together.
His Conquest was stunningly sexy and passionate throughout which made it a very exciting read. Cosby does a great job of building the connection between the characters by firing up the sexual tension. It was not obvious or ill placed, but very natural and stunning attraction between two characters.
Fans of Cosby will recognize most of the secondary characters from previous novels and will be thrilled to catch up on their lives. But not having read the first two novels about the MacGruder Brothers will not set you back at all. This book could easily be read as a stand alone.
His Conquest is a great read if you love a charming highlander romance. It’s not overwhelming emotional, but rather a fairly light read which was a something I really admired about this book. Sometimes the inner dialogue of the characters was a little repetitive, but this was easy to overlook as the book moved quickly and was always entertaining. Ultimately, it has everything you could possibly want; an exciting time period, a thrilling romance and a wonderful cast of characters. The historical background was a wonderful addition as well. Cosby uses a tumultuous time in European history to showcase a dashing hero, a fiery heroine and wonderful romance. What more could a girl ask for?
Overall Rating: 4/5
Heat Level: 4/5
Lisa @ Once Upon A Chapter
Diana Cosby has a wonderful talent for crafting a superb tale of romance and adventure. His Conquest is the kind of novel that captures your interest right at the start and doesn’t let go until you finish it. The suspense and drama throughout this novel make the story very interesting as well. It is a beautifully told story that captures the best aspects of a highlander romance.
The characters were absolutely lovable. Linet had the strength and determination of any great heroine and was an impressive match for the fierce Scotland warrior. It was easy to admire her spark and fiery spirt. Seathan was resilient, but gentle which was an irresistible combination. When facing his enemy he was fierce and unstoppable, but otherwise was a kind and honorable man. Both characters were perfectly charming and absolutely perfect together.
His Conquest was stunningly sexy and passionate throughout which made it a very exciting read. Cosby does a great job of building the connection between the characters by firing up the sexual tension. It was not obvious or ill placed, but very natural and stunning attraction between two characters.
Fans of Cosby will recognize most of the secondary characters from previous novels and will be thrilled to catch up on their lives. But not having read the first two novels about the MacGruder Brothers will not set you back at all. This book could easily be read as a stand alone.
His Conquest is a great read if you love a charming highlander romance. It’s not overwhelming emotional, but rather a fairly light read which was a something I really admired about this book. Sometimes the inner dialogue of the characters was a little repetitive, but this was easy to overlook as the book moved quickly and was always entertaining. Ultimately, it has everything you could possibly want; an exciting time period, a thrilling romance and a wonderful cast of characters. The historical background was a wonderful addition as well. Cosby uses a tumultuous time in European history to showcase a dashing hero, a fiery heroine and wonderful romance. What more could a girl ask for?
Overall Rating: 4/5
Heat Level: 4/5
Lisa @ Once Upon A Chapter
September 14, 2011
Cosby crafts a sensual novel full of excitement, adventure, and love with "His Conquest." Set in Scotland, 1297, the Scots are fighting for their freedom from the oppressive English King, Edward I. Lord Fulke Tearleach, has been given Breac Castle and holds the Scottish Lord, Seathan Grey in it's dungeon. When Tearleach's sister, Linet, frees the Scot, she sets herself and Seathan on a path full of danger and sizzling with heat.
The novel opens with Linet making a life changing decision. She chooses to go against her brother's wishes to marry, and frees Fulke's (her brother) hostage, Lord Seathan Grey from the dungeon, extracting Seathan's promise to take her to the Highlands to be with her mother's clan.
Seathan suspects her motives, but agrees since the alternative is death. Using secret passageways, Linet escorts Seathan out of the castle, but the path is fraught with danger as her brother's knights search the keep. Linet also has another problem - her overwhelming attraction to Seathan.
Seathan is grateful for Linet's actions and he soon finds himself giving her a certain amount of trust. He's stimulated by the brave noblemen, wanting to explore what is growing between them. After evading Tearleach's men and hiding in a cave. Seathan's brothers find him and escort the couple back to Lochshire Castle, Seathan's home.
Seathan is torn between duty and Linet, wanting to claim the Englishwoman for his own. However, when he discovers Linet's secret - that she's Tearleach's sister, his trust is shattered. Can Seathan find it in his heart to forgive Linet, or will he push her away and deny the smoldering desire he has for her?
Cosby's novel starts off with an action packed opening that immediately grabs the reader's attention. Along with a forbidden kiss, she creates a pulse-pounding romance, finding just the right mix of plot and character driven storytelling.
The descriptions use a great economy of words to paint 1297 Scotland and the dialogue adds an extra layer of authenticity to the story.
Both Seathan and Linet are compelling characters. Linet is loyal to the bone and embodies a true noblewoman with her courage and steadfast belief in her heart. Seathan doubts the power of love, not trusting it, but with Linet, he dares to believe.
The novel is sophisticated for romance readers. The love scenes are hot, sexy, and seductive, embodying the passion the couple has discovered. "His Conquest" is a delicious romp to another time and place and will have the reader believing in the power of love. I simply did not want to put it down.
The novel opens with Linet making a life changing decision. She chooses to go against her brother's wishes to marry, and frees Fulke's (her brother) hostage, Lord Seathan Grey from the dungeon, extracting Seathan's promise to take her to the Highlands to be with her mother's clan.
Seathan suspects her motives, but agrees since the alternative is death. Using secret passageways, Linet escorts Seathan out of the castle, but the path is fraught with danger as her brother's knights search the keep. Linet also has another problem - her overwhelming attraction to Seathan.
Seathan is grateful for Linet's actions and he soon finds himself giving her a certain amount of trust. He's stimulated by the brave noblemen, wanting to explore what is growing between them. After evading Tearleach's men and hiding in a cave. Seathan's brothers find him and escort the couple back to Lochshire Castle, Seathan's home.
Seathan is torn between duty and Linet, wanting to claim the Englishwoman for his own. However, when he discovers Linet's secret - that she's Tearleach's sister, his trust is shattered. Can Seathan find it in his heart to forgive Linet, or will he push her away and deny the smoldering desire he has for her?
Cosby's novel starts off with an action packed opening that immediately grabs the reader's attention. Along with a forbidden kiss, she creates a pulse-pounding romance, finding just the right mix of plot and character driven storytelling.
The descriptions use a great economy of words to paint 1297 Scotland and the dialogue adds an extra layer of authenticity to the story.
Both Seathan and Linet are compelling characters. Linet is loyal to the bone and embodies a true noblewoman with her courage and steadfast belief in her heart. Seathan doubts the power of love, not trusting it, but with Linet, he dares to believe.
The novel is sophisticated for romance readers. The love scenes are hot, sexy, and seductive, embodying the passion the couple has discovered. "His Conquest" is a delicious romp to another time and place and will have the reader believing in the power of love. I simply did not want to put it down.
March 6, 2011
This is the third book in the MacGruder series. This story is about Seathan MacGruder (Laird and Earl of Grey) and Linet (sister of Lord Tearach).
Laird Seathan MacGruder, a powerful Scottish rebel, was taken prisoner by Lord Tearach. Lord Tearach and Seathan tortured to gain information on the rebel forces of Wallace. When Seathan did not break, he was to be hanged.
Linet, a intelligent and independent women, that was promised by her father that she could choose the man she was to marry. Upon her father's death, her brother gave her that same promise. Only her brother had no intention of following through on that promised and arranged a marriage contract with another Earl. This Earl was known for his brutality and had killed his last wife.
Linet seeks revenge and freedom. She frees Seathan the night before he is to hang and makes him promise to take her to her mother's clan in the highlands. He reluctantly agrees and is suspicious because Linet will not divulge who she is and why she freed him. Linet is scared to tell him who she really is, for if he knew she was the sister of the man who had him tortured and sentenced him to hang, that he would think her freeing him was a trap and she would never be free of her brother.
You will follow Seethan and Linet as they struggle to trust and eventually love each other for a happily ever after.
I was disappointed in this book. Though Duncan remains my favorite brother, Seathan showed strength and humor in the prior books. The romantic tension was missing and though Linet was suppose to be stubborn and brazen, she fizzled towards the end of the book. If you are reading the series, I would definitely read this book for closure. The book ties the other books together and I would read if only for closure, just don't expect to be as intrigued as the first two books
Laird Seathan MacGruder, a powerful Scottish rebel, was taken prisoner by Lord Tearach. Lord Tearach and Seathan tortured to gain information on the rebel forces of Wallace. When Seathan did not break, he was to be hanged.
Linet, a intelligent and independent women, that was promised by her father that she could choose the man she was to marry. Upon her father's death, her brother gave her that same promise. Only her brother had no intention of following through on that promised and arranged a marriage contract with another Earl. This Earl was known for his brutality and had killed his last wife.
Linet seeks revenge and freedom. She frees Seathan the night before he is to hang and makes him promise to take her to her mother's clan in the highlands. He reluctantly agrees and is suspicious because Linet will not divulge who she is and why she freed him. Linet is scared to tell him who she really is, for if he knew she was the sister of the man who had him tortured and sentenced him to hang, that he would think her freeing him was a trap and she would never be free of her brother.
You will follow Seethan and Linet as they struggle to trust and eventually love each other for a happily ever after.
I was disappointed in this book. Though Duncan remains my favorite brother, Seathan showed strength and humor in the prior books. The romantic tension was missing and though Linet was suppose to be stubborn and brazen, she fizzled towards the end of the book. If you are reading the series, I would definitely read this book for closure. The book ties the other books together and I would read if only for closure, just don't expect to be as intrigued as the first two books
December 5, 2010
Action-packed Scottish historical romance
Lady Linet Dancort grew up with more freedom and education than most women in her lifetime. After her parents' death, her brother, Lord Tearlach, promises her that she would be free to choose her husband. Linet learns of her brother's vicious nature and greed when Lord Tearlach forces her to marry an abusive nobleman in order to gain a political alliance. Linet's only chance to escape such a fate is to seek refuge with her dead mother's clan in the Highlands. Being in the middle of the First War of Scottish Independence, her chances of surviving the journey by herself are minimum. Furious with her brother's treachery, she takes revenge by freeing Seathan MacGruder, Earl of Grey, from Lord Tearlach's dungeon, in exchange for being escorted to her destination.
Hours before being executed, a mysterious and beautiful English woman, who claims to be half Scottish, offers Seathan a deal he cannot refuse. Injured and weak after being tortured, he needs Linet's support and knowledge of the secret tunnels under the castle to survive. He suspects her motives, but respects her secrecy, ignoring the immensity of it, she's the sister of his worse enemy. A woman who saves his life, who he desires and who later will mistrust, believing she's a spy acting in collusion with her brother.
A breathtaking adventure with great fighting scenes and creative hideouts begins. From the first page to the last, they are closely pursued or attacked. Chases and battles interwoven with abundant sexual tension and passionate kissing. When they finally make love, the scene is one of the most touching I'd ever read. An engaging page-turner, the kind of book to take along for a ride.
Lady Linet Dancort grew up with more freedom and education than most women in her lifetime. After her parents' death, her brother, Lord Tearlach, promises her that she would be free to choose her husband. Linet learns of her brother's vicious nature and greed when Lord Tearlach forces her to marry an abusive nobleman in order to gain a political alliance. Linet's only chance to escape such a fate is to seek refuge with her dead mother's clan in the Highlands. Being in the middle of the First War of Scottish Independence, her chances of surviving the journey by herself are minimum. Furious with her brother's treachery, she takes revenge by freeing Seathan MacGruder, Earl of Grey, from Lord Tearlach's dungeon, in exchange for being escorted to her destination.
Hours before being executed, a mysterious and beautiful English woman, who claims to be half Scottish, offers Seathan a deal he cannot refuse. Injured and weak after being tortured, he needs Linet's support and knowledge of the secret tunnels under the castle to survive. He suspects her motives, but respects her secrecy, ignoring the immensity of it, she's the sister of his worse enemy. A woman who saves his life, who he desires and who later will mistrust, believing she's a spy acting in collusion with her brother.
A breathtaking adventure with great fighting scenes and creative hideouts begins. From the first page to the last, they are closely pursued or attacked. Chases and battles interwoven with abundant sexual tension and passionate kissing. When they finally make love, the scene is one of the most touching I'd ever read. An engaging page-turner, the kind of book to take along for a ride.
November 24, 2010
His Conquest is the newest MacGruder brothers adventure. D. Cosby revisits her heroes, still in the thick of all things related to William Wallace and the Scottish rebels.
Seathan is the oldest in the household, and while I liked him, my favorite brother remains Duncan. (This might be because I LOVE His Woman?)
While there are some familiar threads here - the hero is injured, they must sneak through the castle undetected, etc - the story grows into its own. Linet isn't as fiery as Isabel, or as sweet as Nichola - but she is a perfect foil for Seathan.
With several fun plot twists, D. Cosby spins yet another fun and entertaining read. If you're a fan of men in kilts - you'll love this latest tale by Lady D.
Seathan is the oldest in the household, and while I liked him, my favorite brother remains Duncan. (This might be because I LOVE His Woman?)
While there are some familiar threads here - the hero is injured, they must sneak through the castle undetected, etc - the story grows into its own. Linet isn't as fiery as Isabel, or as sweet as Nichola - but she is a perfect foil for Seathan.
With several fun plot twists, D. Cosby spins yet another fun and entertaining read. If you're a fan of men in kilts - you'll love this latest tale by Lady D.
January 4, 2011
When I read for pleasure, I want to be transported from the reality of my ho-hum everyday life to another world, another life, and just for a few hours "be" someone else. (I like to forget that I'm even reading!) His Conquest grabbed me from the first page and held me until I'd finished the last. I love the way Diana Cosby weaves history and long-ago settings into her stories, and I really enjoyed this group of characters. I'd already read "His Woman," but now I'm going to go back and pick up the others in the series.
March 14, 2011
so the sony ebook store didn't have #1 and I started w/#2. These are nice little books. They delve into the actual historical aspects and politics more than other historical romances I've read before. Which is nice but I tended to skim over those parts :)
I wish I could have read #1 because I really do like these brothers. #4 should be coming out in October. I read the teaser chapter in the back of this book and it sounds good but I'm going to need a really good reason that the missing presumed dead brother didn't come back to his family that seems so tight.
I wish I could have read #1 because I really do like these brothers. #4 should be coming out in October. I read the teaser chapter in the back of this book and it sounds good but I'm going to need a really good reason that the missing presumed dead brother didn't come back to his family that seems so tight.
August 10, 2014
OMG! The point that Linet realizes she is in love and Seathan didn't return the feeling just about made me cry. She forced him face his vulnerabilities and it was a beautifully written passage. I came close to crying.
Linet's brother wanted to force her into a marriage so she ran away, taking his most fierce and hated prisoner with her. They bonded traveling to his home and the adventure ensues.
I haven't read the other's in the series yet, but I didn't feel like I was missing anything reading this one first. I can't wait to read the others now!!
LOVED IT!
Linet's brother wanted to force her into a marriage so she ran away, taking his most fierce and hated prisoner with her. They bonded traveling to his home and the adventure ensues.
I haven't read the other's in the series yet, but I didn't feel like I was missing anything reading this one first. I can't wait to read the others now!!
LOVED IT!
March 13, 2011
I really enjoyed this book! It took me awhile to get into it-at first I had trouble believing the emotional connection between the characters, which just seemed to appear without any development (though that may be explained later). But once I did get into it, the story grabbed me and I was very caught up in the characters. I was also intrigued enough by the bits said about characters from previous books, so I'll be buying those and reading them soon.
May 30, 2011
What a great book, like an adult version of a fairytale. The strong princess meets the Strong rebel of a Scottish Prince and they fight against their love and finally at the end Love wins out. I didn't realize this was a series and I read this one first, but no worries the story stands on its own....but I did hurry and buy book one and two on my Kindle to learn more of the MacGruder men. I love the history mixed into this plot and I can't wait to read the others.
February 28, 2025
Again, the story wraps around me and I feel like I am right there along with the characters. I keep wondering how Diana Cosby will make the next book different, since the story lines are similar, but she again has written a wonderful tale. The characters are full of personality and the story line is quite believable. As soon as I finished this book, I started reading the next installment. I am sure going to be sad when I reach the last book of the series.
October 26, 2015
Same old story
Nothing new here...nothing special about the writing, either. I am tired of reading this overdone plot about the hero previously wronged by a woman to explain why he swears the will never love another...blah, blah...and the gorgeous female who not only saves his life but falls deeply in love with him in spite of his mistreatment of her. Please!
Nothing new here...nothing special about the writing, either. I am tired of reading this overdone plot about the hero previously wronged by a woman to explain why he swears the will never love another...blah, blah...and the gorgeous female who not only saves his life but falls deeply in love with him in spite of his mistreatment of her. Please!
July 24, 2014
Excellent medieval detail. Great romantic suspense.
January 31, 2014
Good and easy read.
October 11, 2020
Spineless Heroine
This is the third book in the MacGruder series. There are six books in all. Overall, this story made for a decent read. There is no doubt that Ms. Cosby is an extremely talented story teller. I actually really enjoyed the first half of the book. Unfortunately, as it progressed, my enjoyment began to deteriorate as time and again the heroine exhibited such lack of pride when it came to the hero, I honestly wanted to smack her! And when the story finally got to the scene where the two have sex, it cast such a pall over the book as to almost completely ruin the reading experience for me.
The story is set in 1297 Scotland, during the time of the Scottish rebel, William Wallace. Seathan a Scottish Earl, and rebel, is caught and is being held prisoner by Linet's brother, Viscount Tearlach, who is English. Seathan is scheduled to be hung the following morning, when Linet shows up at his cell door telling him she is going to help him escape. Seathan is very suspicious of Linet's motives for helping him—he thinks that maybe this is a plot by Lord Tearlach to uncover secrets of the Scottish rebels—but jumps at the chance of freedom. In exchange for helping him, Linet asks him to see her safely to her mother's clan in the Highlands. Seathan agrees and the two set off. Linet's reasons for freeing Seathan didn't ring true for me. I couldn't understand this deep-seated hatred she had for brother. Other than the fact that he had gone back on his word to allow her a choice in whom she married, he'd never done anything to her. So, I could see why she'd be angry with him, but hate?
In any event, what really killed the story for me was the sexual aspect—no I'm not one of those people who don't enjoy sex in my romance novels. Actually, the opposite is true—I love it, so long as it doesn't overwhelm the romance. It's not the sex itself that bothered me, rather it was the heroine's behavior as a result of the sexual attraction she feels towards the hero, that made this a painful read for me. She had absolutely no pride! I mean the man doesn't trust her. He called her a liar, deceitful, accused her of being a spy, and finally tells her she's his prisoner. The sexual attraction between the two is intense, but Seathan is a man of honor and knows it would be wrong to take her virginity when there's no future for the two of them. So what does our heroine do? Why she throws herself at him of course—yes, she initiates the sexual relationship. Linet's behavior wasn't consistent with a gently-reared medieval female, who is raised to guard her virtue and to believe that only certain women have sex outside of marriage. But what really really bothered me is the fact that at the time she asks him to make love to her, Linet is still of the belief that Seathan doesn't trust her. To Seathan's credit, before he consummates the relationship, he tells Linet that he believes her, but it didnt' matter because she was already willing to bed him no matter what. I couldn't stand Linet at this point. She just came across too whorish--I hate to use that word, but that's an apt description--for my taste. One scene in particular that left a bad taste in my mouth was when, after Linet confesses her love for him to Seathan, he tells her there is nothing between them but lust, and in her attempt to prove to him that he too felt "the magic" in their joining, Linet proceeds to give him a blowjob! Ugh!
Sometime after I read this book, I actually started reading the second book in the series, His Captive, although I didn't realize the connection between the two until afterwards. I hated the heroine in that book too as she was pretty much another Linet; the hero's captive who throws herself at him even though he is trying to be honorable and not defile her and even after he repeatedly tells her she is his prisoner and nothing more. I didn't even finish that book, I was so disgusted. I'm not sure if this is the case with all of Ms. Cosby's book, just this series, or if it's a coincidence, but so far she's two for two with spineless heroines who throw themselves at men who seem to want nothing but sex from them. Whatever the case may be, I won't be reading anymore books in this series. FYI, if you haven't already guessed, this is not a clean romance. LOL Happy reading!
This is the third book in the MacGruder series. There are six books in all. Overall, this story made for a decent read. There is no doubt that Ms. Cosby is an extremely talented story teller. I actually really enjoyed the first half of the book. Unfortunately, as it progressed, my enjoyment began to deteriorate as time and again the heroine exhibited such lack of pride when it came to the hero, I honestly wanted to smack her! And when the story finally got to the scene where the two have sex, it cast such a pall over the book as to almost completely ruin the reading experience for me.
The story is set in 1297 Scotland, during the time of the Scottish rebel, William Wallace. Seathan a Scottish Earl, and rebel, is caught and is being held prisoner by Linet's brother, Viscount Tearlach, who is English. Seathan is scheduled to be hung the following morning, when Linet shows up at his cell door telling him she is going to help him escape. Seathan is very suspicious of Linet's motives for helping him—he thinks that maybe this is a plot by Lord Tearlach to uncover secrets of the Scottish rebels—but jumps at the chance of freedom. In exchange for helping him, Linet asks him to see her safely to her mother's clan in the Highlands. Seathan agrees and the two set off. Linet's reasons for freeing Seathan didn't ring true for me. I couldn't understand this deep-seated hatred she had for brother. Other than the fact that he had gone back on his word to allow her a choice in whom she married, he'd never done anything to her. So, I could see why she'd be angry with him, but hate?
In any event, what really killed the story for me was the sexual aspect—no I'm not one of those people who don't enjoy sex in my romance novels. Actually, the opposite is true—I love it, so long as it doesn't overwhelm the romance. It's not the sex itself that bothered me, rather it was the heroine's behavior as a result of the sexual attraction she feels towards the hero, that made this a painful read for me. She had absolutely no pride! I mean the man doesn't trust her. He called her a liar, deceitful, accused her of being a spy, and finally tells her she's his prisoner. The sexual attraction between the two is intense, but Seathan is a man of honor and knows it would be wrong to take her virginity when there's no future for the two of them. So what does our heroine do? Why she throws herself at him of course—yes, she initiates the sexual relationship. Linet's behavior wasn't consistent with a gently-reared medieval female, who is raised to guard her virtue and to believe that only certain women have sex outside of marriage. But what really really bothered me is the fact that at the time she asks him to make love to her, Linet is still of the belief that Seathan doesn't trust her. To Seathan's credit, before he consummates the relationship, he tells Linet that he believes her, but it didnt' matter because she was already willing to bed him no matter what. I couldn't stand Linet at this point. She just came across too whorish--I hate to use that word, but that's an apt description--for my taste. One scene in particular that left a bad taste in my mouth was when, after Linet confesses her love for him to Seathan, he tells her there is nothing between them but lust, and in her attempt to prove to him that he too felt "the magic" in their joining, Linet proceeds to give him a blowjob! Ugh!
Sometime after I read this book, I actually started reading the second book in the series, His Captive, although I didn't realize the connection between the two until afterwards. I hated the heroine in that book too as she was pretty much another Linet; the hero's captive who throws herself at him even though he is trying to be honorable and not defile her and even after he repeatedly tells her she is his prisoner and nothing more. I didn't even finish that book, I was so disgusted. I'm not sure if this is the case with all of Ms. Cosby's book, just this series, or if it's a coincidence, but so far she's two for two with spineless heroines who throw themselves at men who seem to want nothing but sex from them. Whatever the case may be, I won't be reading anymore books in this series. FYI, if you haven't already guessed, this is not a clean romance. LOL Happy reading!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2023
Very good, but maybe I need a history lesson.
I enjoyed this book quite a lot. My only reservation is that I don’t know a ton about Scottish history, and this book seems to lean heavily on the reader having some knowledge of the Scottish fight for independence. I also read the third book in the series first, because I’m a trash person and never read things in order, so maybe the other books explain somethings in more detail. Finally, the book switches POVs and time jumps paragraph to paragraph and doesn’t have any formatting to indicate that is about to happen, it was a little confusing at first. But don’t let any of that stop you from reading this, the story was great!
I enjoyed this book quite a lot. My only reservation is that I don’t know a ton about Scottish history, and this book seems to lean heavily on the reader having some knowledge of the Scottish fight for independence. I also read the third book in the series first, because I’m a trash person and never read things in order, so maybe the other books explain somethings in more detail. Finally, the book switches POVs and time jumps paragraph to paragraph and doesn’t have any formatting to indicate that is about to happen, it was a little confusing at first. But don’t let any of that stop you from reading this, the story was great!
March 10, 2023
It was ok
I nearly gave up at 30% of the book, too much thinking for me. She's thinks about him, he thinks about her over and over and over again. Lol! It got better. Towards the end was kind of hurried. But I enjoyed the action scenes. Medieval is my favorite, men hewn from steel. But I think too many knights in this story. You may think differently. Imho it was ok. Well written. I bought this based on Hannah Howells recommend. Great storyline I just as a reader think it could have been better. Happy reading! Lori😸
I nearly gave up at 30% of the book, too much thinking for me. She's thinks about him, he thinks about her over and over and over again. Lol! It got better. Towards the end was kind of hurried. But I enjoyed the action scenes. Medieval is my favorite, men hewn from steel. But I think too many knights in this story. You may think differently. Imho it was ok. Well written. I bought this based on Hannah Howells recommend. Great storyline I just as a reader think it could have been better. Happy reading! Lori😸
November 29, 2014
My thoughts: From the first page of this exciting, well-paced, tension-filled adventure, the reader is drawn into the stench of the very bowls of Breac Castle--the dungeon where Seathan MacGruder is held, awaiting his execution. There is no hope, no way to escape. He is trapped like a feral animal. And the way it is written the reader can see and feel his frustration and desperation.
We see in Seathan a person who does not give up even when there is no hope. Yet, hope comes the night before his morning execution in the form of the lovely Lady Linet Dancort, sister of the executioner, Viscount of Tearlach. Dare and should he trust her?
Lady Linet knows the way out of the dungeon through a secret passage way. And she needs him to help her travel to the Highlands to be with her family, to escape her brother and his plans for her. The tension of being caught leaving the dungeon was palpable. It was a marvelously written scene, keeping me on edge.
Lady Linet is as desperate as Seathan, making very good bed fellows, indeed. She must escape her brother for he is betrothing her to an earl much her senior with abusive tendencies. His previous wife died by his hand. The clever woman she is, she drugs the guards to release Seathan from prison in exchange for her own freedom. Seathan agrees to help her travel to the Highlands. After all, this is his chance to escape certain death. Lots of mistrust here between the two, but they must join forces if both are to succeed.
I was whirled into an escape that almost didn’t happen. Lady Linet is in awe of the strength of will and physical strength of this battered man. They almost aren’t able to get out of the tunnel. As we know what is in Linet’s head and what she’s thinking, we also know that Seathan is astounded by this woman’s bravery, for if she were caught, she would face certain death.
Lady Linet's brother, Fulke Dancort, Viscount of Tearlach is a cruel man, where once Linet had fond childhood memories, they have shriveled to naught. As she gazes at the man in the foul-smelling dungeon, she sees a man tortured beyond what he can endure, yet Lord Grey did not break. Yes, she WOULD foil her brother’s plans to gain favor with King Edward in killing Lord Grey. Her brother was all about power where he even sought to gain more by marrying his sister to an earl known for his abuse and brutality.
Lady Linet is petite, but has a will as large as Seathan’s. Seathan struggles between trying to protect her and throttle her. (always love that) When Lady Linet raises her voice in panic during the descent into the tunnel, he knew no way better to silence her except with his mouth. Surprise from Seathan that he enjoyed it so, forgetting his surroundings, being hunted by knights and surprise from Lady Linet that a kiss could contain so much. A nicely written scene.
It was gratifying to watch such a powerful man as Seathan find his Achilles’ heel in a slip of a woman. Yes, I use the word gratifying, for I simply love to read of the strength and power a woman can have over a man who holds the outcome of a situation through his stance in society and his physical strength.
I love the turn of phrase in the dialog. I feel very much a part of this ancient world. The story is well paced with danger lurking, continually raising the tension of the read. Diana Cosby is extremely talented with words, telling a story easily enjoyed and leaving the reader wanting to continually read to finish the novel only wanting to move to the next once complete. The next is His Destiny. Oh yes, I’m reading it, too!
Excerpt:
Through the carved window, Lady Linet Dancort scanned the midnight sky battered by hard, spring-fed rain. She must hurry. With a steadying breath, Linet pushed back her hood and stepped into the torchlight. A slight scrape sounded as her slipper touched the stone floor.
The Scottish rebel whirled to face her.
Lightening split the sky. Thunder snarled in its wake. Lord Grey’s eyes, feral like a wolf’s, locked on hers.
A tremor rocked her as potent as the next blast of thunder. Her body commanded she retreat. Linet refused. Like the air pulsing with energy, her every sense became charged with awareness.
The urge to shield her face from his unapologetic glare stunned her. Throughout her life she’d been given the freedom to study alongside her peers. Her father had encouraged her to speak her mind. Never had a man’s presence, much less his gaze, incited her interest to a mind-spinning degree. It was illogical this prisoner could make her feel anything by a mere look.
But standing paces away, with his warrior’s dark gaze burning into hers, her body trembled. She owed her reaction to nerves. And rightly so. By the rebels formidable height, scathing look and arrogant stance, there was little safe about the Scot. And with orders for Seathan MacGruder to be hung at first light, he must be desperate.
As was she.
Head held high, she stepped to within a hand’s length of the cell door. Lightning illuminated the chamber, exposing he’d shifted his body, his feet now braced in an aggressive stance.
“I have come to set you free.” Thunder rumbled, this time closer, an ominous backdrop to her quiet offer.
The earl remained silent, his expression raw with distrust.
The rebel doubted her. She’d expected as much. God forbid if he discovered Lord Tearlach, his sworn enemy, was her brother.
We see in Seathan a person who does not give up even when there is no hope. Yet, hope comes the night before his morning execution in the form of the lovely Lady Linet Dancort, sister of the executioner, Viscount of Tearlach. Dare and should he trust her?
Lady Linet knows the way out of the dungeon through a secret passage way. And she needs him to help her travel to the Highlands to be with her family, to escape her brother and his plans for her. The tension of being caught leaving the dungeon was palpable. It was a marvelously written scene, keeping me on edge.
Lady Linet is as desperate as Seathan, making very good bed fellows, indeed. She must escape her brother for he is betrothing her to an earl much her senior with abusive tendencies. His previous wife died by his hand. The clever woman she is, she drugs the guards to release Seathan from prison in exchange for her own freedom. Seathan agrees to help her travel to the Highlands. After all, this is his chance to escape certain death. Lots of mistrust here between the two, but they must join forces if both are to succeed.
I was whirled into an escape that almost didn’t happen. Lady Linet is in awe of the strength of will and physical strength of this battered man. They almost aren’t able to get out of the tunnel. As we know what is in Linet’s head and what she’s thinking, we also know that Seathan is astounded by this woman’s bravery, for if she were caught, she would face certain death.
Lady Linet's brother, Fulke Dancort, Viscount of Tearlach is a cruel man, where once Linet had fond childhood memories, they have shriveled to naught. As she gazes at the man in the foul-smelling dungeon, she sees a man tortured beyond what he can endure, yet Lord Grey did not break. Yes, she WOULD foil her brother’s plans to gain favor with King Edward in killing Lord Grey. Her brother was all about power where he even sought to gain more by marrying his sister to an earl known for his abuse and brutality.
Lady Linet is petite, but has a will as large as Seathan’s. Seathan struggles between trying to protect her and throttle her. (always love that) When Lady Linet raises her voice in panic during the descent into the tunnel, he knew no way better to silence her except with his mouth. Surprise from Seathan that he enjoyed it so, forgetting his surroundings, being hunted by knights and surprise from Lady Linet that a kiss could contain so much. A nicely written scene.
It was gratifying to watch such a powerful man as Seathan find his Achilles’ heel in a slip of a woman. Yes, I use the word gratifying, for I simply love to read of the strength and power a woman can have over a man who holds the outcome of a situation through his stance in society and his physical strength.
I love the turn of phrase in the dialog. I feel very much a part of this ancient world. The story is well paced with danger lurking, continually raising the tension of the read. Diana Cosby is extremely talented with words, telling a story easily enjoyed and leaving the reader wanting to continually read to finish the novel only wanting to move to the next once complete. The next is His Destiny. Oh yes, I’m reading it, too!
Excerpt:
Through the carved window, Lady Linet Dancort scanned the midnight sky battered by hard, spring-fed rain. She must hurry. With a steadying breath, Linet pushed back her hood and stepped into the torchlight. A slight scrape sounded as her slipper touched the stone floor.
The Scottish rebel whirled to face her.
Lightening split the sky. Thunder snarled in its wake. Lord Grey’s eyes, feral like a wolf’s, locked on hers.
A tremor rocked her as potent as the next blast of thunder. Her body commanded she retreat. Linet refused. Like the air pulsing with energy, her every sense became charged with awareness.
The urge to shield her face from his unapologetic glare stunned her. Throughout her life she’d been given the freedom to study alongside her peers. Her father had encouraged her to speak her mind. Never had a man’s presence, much less his gaze, incited her interest to a mind-spinning degree. It was illogical this prisoner could make her feel anything by a mere look.
But standing paces away, with his warrior’s dark gaze burning into hers, her body trembled. She owed her reaction to nerves. And rightly so. By the rebels formidable height, scathing look and arrogant stance, there was little safe about the Scot. And with orders for Seathan MacGruder to be hung at first light, he must be desperate.
As was she.
Head held high, she stepped to within a hand’s length of the cell door. Lightning illuminated the chamber, exposing he’d shifted his body, his feet now braced in an aggressive stance.
“I have come to set you free.” Thunder rumbled, this time closer, an ominous backdrop to her quiet offer.
The earl remained silent, his expression raw with distrust.
The rebel doubted her. She’d expected as much. God forbid if he discovered Lord Tearlach, his sworn enemy, was her brother.
December 29, 2021
That was pretty good! Some stressful moments, but overall a great read. Linet was brave and likable and Seathan was heroic and typical (in the best way). It’s always so silly when they pull the “a woman wronged me so now I believe all women are liars,” but it was pretty good regardless. Evil brother and unwanted marriage to abusive man were pretty expected as well. I liked this one.
December 8, 2020
good - historical romance set in Scotland
August 5, 2021
Well written with characters that bring this story to life.
Betrayal, hatred, vengeance and the fight for Scottish independence are the backdrop for Linet & Seathen’s journey to their HEA
Betrayal, hatred, vengeance and the fight for Scottish independence are the backdrop for Linet & Seathen’s journey to their HEA
December 26, 2021
Very boring
Far to many meaningless descriptions of places and things with no real action or connection between characters .. I would not recommend this book.
Far to many meaningless descriptions of places and things with no real action or connection between characters .. I would not recommend this book.
November 3, 2014
I'm going to go on record here as saying that Highland romances are kinda a guilty pleasure of mine. I'm not enamoured of them to the point where I must have every single one that crosses my path but I tend to view them a fun, fluffy diversion from all that real-life stuff that crops up from time to time. I mean, there's something about a brawny guy that can ride a horse and swing a sword while nearly naked that makes my breath catch in my throat.
That said, there's a lot of backstory and history in this book that, while interesting, almost made me feel like I was back in school being forced to learn things. Egad! The horror! Not that I'm knocking historical accuracy, but I want it a little less in my face and more an organic part of the scenery. I will say that all the rebellion set a good back drop for Linet and Seathan's story but... fluffy diversion, guys. I wanted a fluffy diversion and I got a history lesson.
Now I feel really shallow. I mean, it's good to learn things. I should want to learn things. Yet sometimes I want nothing more than sweaty Scottish sex with a lot of thrusting and parrying. I'm talking about swordplay, guys. I swear! No, you're right. I wasn't.
In all, while this was a interesting story, I could have done with a little less history and a little more of that unresolved sexual tension. Wait. I didn't mean that. Any more sexual tension and those two would have combusted on the spot. I guess I'm saying that it was good, just a little deeper and more real than I was expecting.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
That said, there's a lot of backstory and history in this book that, while interesting, almost made me feel like I was back in school being forced to learn things. Egad! The horror! Not that I'm knocking historical accuracy, but I want it a little less in my face and more an organic part of the scenery. I will say that all the rebellion set a good back drop for Linet and Seathan's story but... fluffy diversion, guys. I wanted a fluffy diversion and I got a history lesson.
Now I feel really shallow. I mean, it's good to learn things. I should want to learn things. Yet sometimes I want nothing more than sweaty Scottish sex with a lot of thrusting and parrying. I'm talking about swordplay, guys. I swear! No, you're right. I wasn't.
In all, while this was a interesting story, I could have done with a little less history and a little more of that unresolved sexual tension. Wait. I didn't mean that. Any more sexual tension and those two would have combusted on the spot. I guess I'm saying that it was good, just a little deeper and more real than I was expecting.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
March 15, 2015
This is another great book by Diana Cosby. Not quite as excellent as "His Captive", but I might be biased - I really like Nichola. Linet is another strong heroine, feisty and feminine, a character that this author has a knack for developing. And one we need so many more of in this world. Maybe if women read them, they'll realize they can also be them.
As with all her books, character development is fast, keeping pace with the plot as it twists and turns. A wonderful feature of this author is that the villains frequently turn into heroes. Sadly, another feature is that people who seemed to be friends sometimes turn out to be enemies. The heartbreak for the other characters is usually a major part of the story.
As with all her books, character development is fast, keeping pace with the plot as it twists and turns. A wonderful feature of this author is that the villains frequently turn into heroes. Sadly, another feature is that people who seemed to be friends sometimes turn out to be enemies. The heartbreak for the other characters is usually a major part of the story.
November 23, 2011
Historical romance with a little "magic" at the end.
The book kept my interest and the main characters were quite likeable. The historical part of the novel was not overwhelming, which I like.
The pace of the book may have been a little slower that I would like, but it was not so boring that I wanted to skip pages ;o)
For a couple of days reading, this was a good one. Nothing too scarey or to sexy to worry about in this one ;o)
The book kept my interest and the main characters were quite likeable. The historical part of the novel was not overwhelming, which I like.
The pace of the book may have been a little slower that I would like, but it was not so boring that I wanted to skip pages ;o)
For a couple of days reading, this was a good one. Nothing too scarey or to sexy to worry about in this one ;o)
May 9, 2012
I enjoyed this book better than #2...It was nice to see a woman stand up to Seathan. I liked how strong of a character Linet was and that she didn't back down. I also enjoyed the magical aspect in the story with the jewels and the room that their grandma owned when she was alive. I think it adds something different into the story.
January 25, 2015
Quick read. Heart warming love stories in this series. I have now read two. Not necessarily historically accurate, though, in terms of the relationships and/or way women were viewed/treated. Still, a good read.
December 31, 2015
Wanted to give this series another try. The writing style is just not my cuppa. A lot of yo-yo-ing and repeating of the stand the characters took and why it could never be. Then it actually was. Nothing bad, just not for me.
February 10, 2016
I loved this book! So far the books in this series have not disappointed!!! I highly recommend this book & the first 2 books in this series!! They can all be read as standalone books but I say that it's better if you read all the books, in order, from the beginning!!
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