What do you think?
Rate this book
The Tulloch Sgàthán Trilogy #3
A Borrowed Scot
Who Is Montgomery Fairfax?
Though she possesses remarkable talents and astonishing insight, Veronica MacLeod knows nothing about the man who appears from nowhere to prevent her from committing the most foolish and desperate act of her life. Recently named Lord Fairfax of Doncaster Hall, the breathtaking, secretive stranger agrees to perform the one act of kindness that can rescue the Scottish beauty from scandal and disgrace—by taking Veronica as his bride.
Journeying with Montgomery Fairfax to his magnificent estate in the Highlands, Veronica knows deep in her heart that this is a man she can truly love—a noble soul, a caring and passionate lover whose touch awakens feelings she's never before known. Yet there are ghosts in Montgomery's shuttered past that haunt him still. Unless Veronica can somehow unlock the enigma that is her new husband, their powerful passion could be undone by the sins and sorrows of yesterday.
Though she possesses remarkable talents and astonishing insight, Veronica MacLeod knows nothing about the man who appears from nowhere to prevent her from committing the most foolish and desperate act of her life. Recently named Lord Fairfax of Doncaster Hall, the breathtaking, secretive stranger agrees to perform the one act of kindness that can rescue the Scottish beauty from scandal and disgrace—by taking Veronica as his bride.
Journeying with Montgomery Fairfax to his magnificent estate in the Highlands, Veronica knows deep in her heart that this is a man she can truly love—a noble soul, a caring and passionate lover whose touch awakens feelings she's never before known. Yet there are ghosts in Montgomery's shuttered past that haunt him still. Unless Veronica can somehow unlock the enigma that is her new husband, their powerful passion could be undone by the sins and sorrows of yesterday.
356 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
31 people are currently reading
490 people want to read
About the author
Karen Ranney
100 books947 followersI’m a writer who’s been privileged to have attained the New York Times and USA Today Bestseller Lists.
Although I've primarily written historical romance, I've also written contemporary romantic suspense, a murder mystery, and I'm having a wonderful time writing about a vampire who is being challenged by her new state of being. (The Montgomery Chronicles: The Fertile Vampire and The Reluctant Goddess coming March 12, 2015.)
I believe in the power of the individual, the magnificence of the human spirit, and always looking for the positive in any situation. I write about people who have been challenged by life itself but who win in the end.
Newsletter: http://karenranney.com/subscribe-warm...
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/WriterKarenRa...
Website: http://karenranney.com
Email: karen@karenranney.com
Twitter: @Karen_Ranney
Although I've primarily written historical romance, I've also written contemporary romantic suspense, a murder mystery, and I'm having a wonderful time writing about a vampire who is being challenged by her new state of being. (The Montgomery Chronicles: The Fertile Vampire and The Reluctant Goddess coming March 12, 2015.)
I believe in the power of the individual, the magnificence of the human spirit, and always looking for the positive in any situation. I write about people who have been challenged by life itself but who win in the end.
Newsletter: http://karenranney.com/subscribe-warm...
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/WriterKarenRa...
Website: http://karenranney.com
Email: karen@karenranney.com
Twitter: @Karen_Ranney
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
March 30, 2011
This book has one of the pet peeves I should have included on the Top Ten Tuesday list: 'Too Stupid To Live'. In the beginning Veronica seems to fit into this category way too perfectly. We meet her as she's drugged and about to be raped by a group of men part of a secret society. Seriously, how does one get into this kind of situation? And then when she's turned out by her aunt and uncle, she thinks it would be a very good idea to just go around naked looking for someone to take her in.
Yes, this sounds bad. But bear with me and the story. Of course, Montgomery (horrible, horrible first name) saves her and they get married. He is damaged from his past and haunted by the ghosts of said past. He is not a very sociable person, as in he doesn't really talk. When Veronica questions him, he just turns and leaves. The only connection they have is in the marital bed. It was nice to see them grow closer outside of it as well.
Veronica after her moment of brain-loss, is actually a nice, sensible person. She also has the gift of sensing what others are feeling and while for me it wasn't necessary for the storyline, it was interesting.
I'm not really sure why Veronica's family was so nasty to her and it irks me that this wasn't explained. Her cousin was jealous, ok, I can get that. But her aunt and uncle weren't exactly warm and fuzzy either.
There was some wonderful tension and this was an enjoyable read, so I did like it in the end.
My rating: 3 stars
Yes, this sounds bad. But bear with me and the story. Of course, Montgomery (horrible, horrible first name) saves her and they get married. He is damaged from his past and haunted by the ghosts of said past. He is not a very sociable person, as in he doesn't really talk. When Veronica questions him, he just turns and leaves. The only connection they have is in the marital bed. It was nice to see them grow closer outside of it as well.
Veronica after her moment of brain-loss, is actually a nice, sensible person. She also has the gift of sensing what others are feeling and while for me it wasn't necessary for the storyline, it was interesting.
I'm not really sure why Veronica's family was so nasty to her and it irks me that this wasn't explained. Her cousin was jealous, ok, I can get that. But her aunt and uncle weren't exactly warm and fuzzy either.
There was some wonderful tension and this was an enjoyable read, so I did like it in the end.
My rating: 3 stars
September 15, 2022
Ik heb de Nederlands talige uitgave gelezen : Hier hoor ik thuis - Candlelight Historische roman 1016 .
Een spannend begin van het verhaal maar helaas was de rest vrij saai ondanks de vele seks scenes .
Deze hele trilogie over een magische spiegel viel ietwat tegen .
Een spannend begin van het verhaal maar helaas was de rest vrij saai ondanks de vele seks scenes .
Deze hele trilogie over een magische spiegel viel ietwat tegen .
April 4, 2011
I have to start by saying this is one of the best historical romances I have read in a long time. I sat down to read it and could not put it down until it was over.
The story begins with our hero, Montgomery Fairfax, as he rescues Veronica from near-rape. He brings her home, only to watch her family disown her for coming home without her clothes. He takes her in, then finds himself forced to marry her, to keep her from social destruction. Montgomery is a Virginian, who has recently been summoned to London to take over the title as Lord Fairfax. He is a broken man, haunted by memories of the Civil War and the family he has lost.
Veronica is determined to make the most of her marriage. She was an orphan, being raised as a poor relation by her uncle and his family. Now, she is the mistress of her own home. She has a bit of a psychic gift and it allows her to read the emotions of others. In the case of her husband, she can feel his misery, yet he will not open up to her. The only way they relate to each other is in the bedroom. But she wants more.
I have not one single complaint about this book. It captured my attention from the first page and not once did I have to fight the urge to skim ahead. I felt such sympathy for Montgomery. He was so empty. And Veronica is not much better off. She lost the only people who ever loved her when her parents died. It was heartwarming watching them slowly fill the emotional void within each other. And the sex was fan-freaking-tastic. The pacing was great, and so was the minor mystery at the end.
If you like Historical Romance at all, I suggest you give this one a try. I loved it. 4 1/2 stars.
The story begins with our hero, Montgomery Fairfax, as he rescues Veronica from near-rape. He brings her home, only to watch her family disown her for coming home without her clothes. He takes her in, then finds himself forced to marry her, to keep her from social destruction. Montgomery is a Virginian, who has recently been summoned to London to take over the title as Lord Fairfax. He is a broken man, haunted by memories of the Civil War and the family he has lost.
Veronica is determined to make the most of her marriage. She was an orphan, being raised as a poor relation by her uncle and his family. Now, she is the mistress of her own home. She has a bit of a psychic gift and it allows her to read the emotions of others. In the case of her husband, she can feel his misery, yet he will not open up to her. The only way they relate to each other is in the bedroom. But she wants more.
I have not one single complaint about this book. It captured my attention from the first page and not once did I have to fight the urge to skim ahead. I felt such sympathy for Montgomery. He was so empty. And Veronica is not much better off. She lost the only people who ever loved her when her parents died. It was heartwarming watching them slowly fill the emotional void within each other. And the sex was fan-freaking-tastic. The pacing was great, and so was the minor mystery at the end.
If you like Historical Romance at all, I suggest you give this one a try. I loved it. 4 1/2 stars.
October 29, 2017
Ok, I might just need to create a new shelf, titled to-stupid-to-live. This would fit perfectly on said shelf.
The story had the make up for a perfect setting. Grumpy, loner guy saves the pleasant, non-bitchy heroine from a bad situation and because they are caught alone (escaping from the bad situation) they now need to marry. But.... everything went wrong for me.
1 - The bad situation that the heroine finds herself in? Come on, how stupid would she need to be to NOT know it would be totally improper for her to attend this meeting, especially alone.
2 - She was not concerned in the least to be walking around outdoors naked except for wearing a monks robe (while being returned from the bad situation). I don't care if she grew up with loving parents in the Scottish wilds, it would be so improper for that time period. TSTL.
3 - The hero was actually written as a jerk. Such awkward, seemingly incomplete conversations with the heroine. I felt like I was missing pages while reading their conversations with each other. He was not a hero I felt like rooting for, not even remotely.
4 - Back to the heroine. So they get married, husband avoids her for a total of 24 hours (because he doesn't want to bed a stranger) and that doesn't fly with the heroine. She confronts him in the parlor about it (extremely straightforward if I might say, esp to this guy who is a complete stranger and treats her as if she is dirt) complaining that she still hasn't even gotten a kiss yet. That challenge does the magic trick for the hero and he suddenly can't breath unless he kisses her. (after hating her for the last 100 pages...) So he lightly kisses her and tried to use a little tongue action, she complains that is NOT what a kiss is (her thinking that he doesn't know what he is doing), he goes in for a second and she starts batting at him and reprimanding him that it is improper to kiss in the parlor. Hmmm....ok. (eye roll)
5 - It was alluded too that the heroine's evil cousin Amanda was going to be visiting Scotland to blackmail the heroine for money, that was a turn off. Stupid scenario that I had no interest in reading about.
So I stopped at this point to look back on GR to remind myself how I had like books 1 and 2 in this series. I read them before Goodreads, so I had no reviews written about them but I had given book one a 3-stars and book two a 1-star. So long story short, if I could sum this book up with one emoticon, it would be the one with the frowny mouth and the eyes looking sideways in disgust. (my fav)
The story had the make up for a perfect setting. Grumpy, loner guy saves the pleasant, non-bitchy heroine from a bad situation and because they are caught alone (escaping from the bad situation) they now need to marry. But.... everything went wrong for me.
1 - The bad situation that the heroine finds herself in? Come on, how stupid would she need to be to NOT know it would be totally improper for her to attend this meeting, especially alone.
2 - She was not concerned in the least to be walking around outdoors naked except for wearing a monks robe (while being returned from the bad situation). I don't care if she grew up with loving parents in the Scottish wilds, it would be so improper for that time period. TSTL.
3 - The hero was actually written as a jerk. Such awkward, seemingly incomplete conversations with the heroine. I felt like I was missing pages while reading their conversations with each other. He was not a hero I felt like rooting for, not even remotely.
4 - Back to the heroine. So they get married, husband avoids her for a total of 24 hours (because he doesn't want to bed a stranger) and that doesn't fly with the heroine. She confronts him in the parlor about it (extremely straightforward if I might say, esp to this guy who is a complete stranger and treats her as if she is dirt) complaining that she still hasn't even gotten a kiss yet. That challenge does the magic trick for the hero and he suddenly can't breath unless he kisses her. (after hating her for the last 100 pages...) So he lightly kisses her and tried to use a little tongue action, she complains that is NOT what a kiss is (her thinking that he doesn't know what he is doing), he goes in for a second and she starts batting at him and reprimanding him that it is improper to kiss in the parlor. Hmmm....ok. (eye roll)
5 - It was alluded too that the heroine's evil cousin Amanda was going to be visiting Scotland to blackmail the heroine for money, that was a turn off. Stupid scenario that I had no interest in reading about.
So I stopped at this point to look back on GR to remind myself how I had like books 1 and 2 in this series. I read them before Goodreads, so I had no reviews written about them but I had given book one a 3-stars and book two a 1-star. So long story short, if I could sum this book up with one emoticon, it would be the one with the frowny mouth and the eyes looking sideways in disgust. (my fav)
January 14, 2020
Last in a trilogy I liked this best because, Scotland. A very weird beginning, but all us explained. Montgomery Fairfax has been found in America to take up his position as Lord Fairfax, and he meets Veronica and he is basically made to marry her. They go to Scotland and eventually all their secrets are told. Scotland is like a character in this book, and as I love Scotland, I enjoyed this book.
August 4, 2018
There were things in this book that just didn't make sense to me. Veronica has lived with her aunt, uncle and cousins for the past two years, since her parents died in a fire. They didn't like her parents because they felt her mother married beneath her. They treat her like a poor relation. She wears the same clothes as the servants. One of her cousins extorts money from her. BUT, then the cousin, Amanda, says she's jealous because Veronica got the biggest room. What? Why would Veronica get the nicest room but be forced to wear servant's clothing? That made no sense.
Veronica has a Gift. She's an empath (although that's never stated). Frankly, aside from getting her in the position of being raped at a weird Society's meeting, it doesn't seem to play into the story much. Yes, she "feels" Montgomery's rage, etc. but it doesn't look like you'd need an empath to do that.
Montgomery brings her home after saving her from the near rape. Her uncle and aunt won't listen to Veronica's explanation and assume she's been intimate with Montgomery - who then concedes to marry Veronica to prevent her from being destitute since they refuse to let her back into the house. Amanda, for some reason apparently known only to herself, ratted Veronica out - did she wait in the window waiting for her to come home? What's her motive? She'll lose her extra pin money.
Then this supposed hero ignores Veronica (besides having wild sex with her) and concentrates on innovating air balloons while ignoring his new found duties as a land owner.
There are more events that just don't seem to make sense but I don't have time to write them all down.
I didn't particularly like the ending either - it didn't wrap things up to me.
Veronica has a Gift. She's an empath (although that's never stated). Frankly, aside from getting her in the position of being raped at a weird Society's meeting, it doesn't seem to play into the story much. Yes, she "feels" Montgomery's rage, etc. but it doesn't look like you'd need an empath to do that.
Montgomery brings her home after saving her from the near rape. Her uncle and aunt won't listen to Veronica's explanation and assume she's been intimate with Montgomery - who then concedes to marry Veronica to prevent her from being destitute since they refuse to let her back into the house. Amanda, for some reason apparently known only to herself, ratted Veronica out - did she wait in the window waiting for her to come home? What's her motive? She'll lose her extra pin money.
Then this supposed hero ignores Veronica (besides having wild sex with her) and concentrates on innovating air balloons while ignoring his new found duties as a land owner.
There are more events that just don't seem to make sense but I don't have time to write them all down.
I didn't particularly like the ending either - it didn't wrap things up to me.
July 18, 2011
"A Borrowed Scot", by Karen Ranney, begins with a daring rescue, and the story line remains well-paced. Montgomery Fairfax, native of Virginia, now finds himself the reluctant 11th Lord of Fairfax. When a mission to find information suddenly becomes a rescue mission, Montgomery has no honorable choice other than to save lovely Veronica MacLeod from her own dangerous misstep. He soon finds himself a disgruntled bridegroom, pressured by Veronica's family into making her his wife. Veronica has long wanted to escape her suffocating and controlling relatives. Marriage to Lord Fairfax is a way out of her situation, but what issues will she face as the wife of her sometimes silent and secretive new husband? Veronica's "gift", her ability to read the inner emotions of others, shows her that her husband is a man in deep emotional conflict. She is as attracted to Montgomery as he is to her, and his passion as a lover makes her long for a deeper connection with the man she has married. Will the "borrowed Scot" stay in Scotland and claim his heritage, or will the call of the land of his birth be too strong to resist? Karen Ranney has written a passionate and touching romance. Once you have your "borrowed Scot", you will be most unwilling to let him go!
February 21, 2015
While I did ultimately enjoy this book, I was a bit disappointed. There were a lot of possible plotlines set up: the mirror, the accident, the lawyer as a potential heir. All of these promised to be very interesting...but then weren't. I liked Veronica, but there were times when I expected her to be much more forceful and independent. Overall, it was better than okay, but not quite great.
February 5, 2013
I tried this book and couldn't hack it. The heroine is wimpy, her family are a bunch of cardboard villains, and the hero is just kind of an annoying jerk. I really couldn't get into it!
July 2, 2020
Lady Veronica MacLeod has a gift of empathy and she has questions about this gift so she goes to a meeting of the Society of the Mercaii. Veronica is drugged and stripped and about to be raped when a man appears out of nowhere and saves her.
Lord Montgomery Fairfax of Doncaster Hall, has come from Virginia only recently to receive his title. Fairfax is quiet and secretive and wants no bride, especially one with family. But agrees to marry Veronica to save her from scandal and being thrown out on the street.
After the marriage they travel to his estate in the Highlands, Scotland. Fairfax has made it clear he wants nothing to do with Veronica and that he will never love her. Veronica knows that she could love him if he would only communicate with her instead of just bedding her then walking away. Fairfax is a war hero with a caring and passionate soul. He has ghosts that haunt him and Veronica needs to find a way into his heart and convince him to make Scotland his home.
Lord Montgomery Fairfax of Doncaster Hall, has come from Virginia only recently to receive his title. Fairfax is quiet and secretive and wants no bride, especially one with family. But agrees to marry Veronica to save her from scandal and being thrown out on the street.
After the marriage they travel to his estate in the Highlands, Scotland. Fairfax has made it clear he wants nothing to do with Veronica and that he will never love her. Veronica knows that she could love him if he would only communicate with her instead of just bedding her then walking away. Fairfax is a war hero with a caring and passionate soul. He has ghosts that haunt him and Veronica needs to find a way into his heart and convince him to make Scotland his home.
January 7, 2018
Ceritanya bagus.., awal2nya agak unik. Saya sebel banget dengan Paman dan bibinya Veronica juga sepupunya yang bernama Amanda, kayaknya kok jahat banget. Tapi untuk kejahatan berbuah manis karena akhirnya Veronica malah menikah dengan Montgomery. Walau awal2nya pernikahan mereka karena terpaksa untungnya lama2 mereka saling melengkapi san akhirnya jatuh cinta. Suka banget dengan sedikit unsur magical disini karrena kaca Tulloch itu. Yang agak menganggu saya cuma adegan memanggil para hantu. Ohh dengan sedikit suspence juga walau saya bener2 tak menduga pelakunya.
September 28, 2020
I was full of anticipation because the start was exciting and mysterious. But as I navigate through the story, that immediately plummeted and I was left disappointed. I thought there would be more explanation about the cult, the Gift and the past but meh, this story was more about inner monologues and description of things around the characters. Got some steamy scenes and thank goodness for something that wasn't boring.
June 12, 2023
It's entertaining, but there is really not much to it.
Montgomery Fairfax is not really likeable, not really a hero material. Sure he is doing the right thing by rescuing Veronica, but other than that he seems rather irresponsible. He cares only about his balloon and neglecting pretty much everything else. When something goes wrong, he immediately accuses Veronica.
Veronica's family is so bad that they feel more like caricatures than real persons.
The plot itself doesn't really make sense. The motive is not quite enough, and the method is flawed.
One really annoying scene in the book: if you are trying not to get caught, why do you linger in front of the door yakking?
Montgomery Fairfax is not really likeable, not really a hero material. Sure he is doing the right thing by rescuing Veronica, but other than that he seems rather irresponsible. He cares only about his balloon and neglecting pretty much everything else. When something goes wrong, he immediately accuses Veronica.
Veronica's family is so bad that they feel more like caricatures than real persons.
The plot itself doesn't really make sense. The motive is not quite enough, and the method is flawed.
One really annoying scene in the book: if you are trying not to get caught, why do you linger in front of the door yakking?
December 29, 2017
This was a good book I enjoyed it.
October 24, 2019
I enjoyed the plot.
August 12, 2020
Baguuusss...meski langsung loncat baca buku ketiga (berhubung di Ipusnas adanya satu buku itu), ceritanya enak aja buat diikutin. Pengin baca buku 1 dan 2, tapi mesti beli dulu nih.
October 11, 2020
Was okay. Might reread. Nothing too big happened. No strong conflict.
January 27, 2024
This book makes me feel things
November 15, 2024
I was hoping for more paranormal elements and was disappointed. The love story was satisfactory. The lead characters were portrayed fairly decently. I just felt so-so about the overall book.
September 2, 2022
Not much plot outside of characters struggling with their past and their relationship. Honestly, though, I'm here for it. There weren't any lies to create drama, instead it was a lack of communication, but there were numerous steamy scenes. It was a nice balance for a light sexy read. The plot was very tame, but kind of refreshing, and the characters were likeable.
March 15, 2011
Set in 1866, A Borrowed Scot is a romance that allows two people forced together by circumstances the time they need to fall in love. It is full of lust and yearning for a future that seems out of reach. It is a romance between a woman who had no future and a man who yearned for the past. The romance grows on you and leaves you feeling satisfied with a conclusion that both characters worked to create.
Veronica is a woman not content to hide in the shadows. She has the gift of sight and wants to investigate it, but as a poor relation she is to keep her mouth closed and remain in the background. She had no hope of being married or having her own home. I wanted her to have a life. I wanted her to be happy and to get away from the relatives who treated her like crap.
Montgomery was different though. I didn’t really understand him for a good portion of the book. I never truly knew what he wanted ‘till the book was almost over. I didn’t know who he was or why he acted the way he did. He closed himself off from the possibility of love and the only way for my heroine to have her HEA was for him to come to terms with the past and choose a future.
Montgomery treated Veronica poorly at times, but she wasn’t content to let the slights go by unaddressed. I liked that about her. She was never rude or in his face. She preferred to be the polite, smiley character who returned the treatment. When her hero ignored her, she returned the favor and ignored him. Her ability to not make a big deal out bad situations allowed her to avoid looking hysterical. It caught her hero’s attention without forcing her to sacrifice the actions of a true lady.
A Borrowed Scot is not full of action. It has some, but if you are looking for an action packed book don’t pick it up. The book is like all relationships. There are steps forward and misunderstandings that take it back a step. The book is for lovers of the romance genre who want a story that guarantees a believable HEA.
Would I recommend this book? Yeah, to friends who love historical romances. This story is full of the hangups from the past. The roles of servants, ladies, lords, men and women were clearly defined. Stepping out of those roles created issues and while I had a hard time controlling my temper when the consequences became clear, it was par for the time. Women couldn’t just jump up and run out. There needed to be chaperons and if there weren’t there were consequences. If you are okay with that, then you might have fun reading Ranney’s latest book, A Borrowed Scot.
Scooper Speaks
Veronica is a woman not content to hide in the shadows. She has the gift of sight and wants to investigate it, but as a poor relation she is to keep her mouth closed and remain in the background. She had no hope of being married or having her own home. I wanted her to have a life. I wanted her to be happy and to get away from the relatives who treated her like crap.
Montgomery was different though. I didn’t really understand him for a good portion of the book. I never truly knew what he wanted ‘till the book was almost over. I didn’t know who he was or why he acted the way he did. He closed himself off from the possibility of love and the only way for my heroine to have her HEA was for him to come to terms with the past and choose a future.
Montgomery treated Veronica poorly at times, but she wasn’t content to let the slights go by unaddressed. I liked that about her. She was never rude or in his face. She preferred to be the polite, smiley character who returned the treatment. When her hero ignored her, she returned the favor and ignored him. Her ability to not make a big deal out bad situations allowed her to avoid looking hysterical. It caught her hero’s attention without forcing her to sacrifice the actions of a true lady.
A Borrowed Scot is not full of action. It has some, but if you are looking for an action packed book don’t pick it up. The book is like all relationships. There are steps forward and misunderstandings that take it back a step. The book is for lovers of the romance genre who want a story that guarantees a believable HEA.
Would I recommend this book? Yeah, to friends who love historical romances. This story is full of the hangups from the past. The roles of servants, ladies, lords, men and women were clearly defined. Stepping out of those roles created issues and while I had a hard time controlling my temper when the consequences became clear, it was par for the time. Women couldn’t just jump up and run out. There needed to be chaperons and if there weren’t there were consequences. If you are okay with that, then you might have fun reading Ranney’s latest book, A Borrowed Scot.
Scooper Speaks
July 26, 2016
3 and 1/2 stars - Entertaining Story
This story had some interesting elements and the writing was excellent but it didn't grab me.
The story begins in 1866 as Veronica MacLeod, a Scot orphaned by the death of her parents and now a "poor relation" of her relatives in London, goes (alone) to a meeting of a secret society to inquire about her gift for understanding people's emotions and to learn about contacting the dead. When she arrives, she is drugged and is about to be raped by a circle of lecherous men when she is suddenly rescued by a man visiting the group to ask about a magical mirror. The man, Montgomery Fairfax is an American Civil War hero, who has just inherited the title Lord Fairfax and Doncaster Hall, a beautiful estate in the Scottish Highlands. When he returns Veronica home, clad only in his cloak, her uncle the earl insists that Montgomery marry her. So he does, taking her to Scotland. Haunted by the ghosts of his past and not wanting a wife, he pays her little attention to Veronica except in bed. Veronica, on the other hand, is happy to be away from her miserable family and back in her beloved Highlands and vows to become a good wife. Montgomery has little desire to be the lord of a going concern and wants only to continue his scientific endeavor to develop a steering mechanism for his hot air balloons he worked on during the war.
I can't tell you why this story never grabbed me. But it didn't. Once they were in Scotland, not much seemed to happen outside of ordinary life. Perhaps that was it. I didn't like her family who visited them (she didn't either). Also, the "black moment" where he thought she might be behind a plot to do him harm seemed contrived. All that detracted from what might have been a better story. Certainly she writes very well and the concept was novel for which I give her full marks. But I'm rating it as 3 and 1/2 stars. If you are a Ranney fan, you likely won't be disappointed. But I would have liked more.
This story had some interesting elements and the writing was excellent but it didn't grab me.
The story begins in 1866 as Veronica MacLeod, a Scot orphaned by the death of her parents and now a "poor relation" of her relatives in London, goes (alone) to a meeting of a secret society to inquire about her gift for understanding people's emotions and to learn about contacting the dead. When she arrives, she is drugged and is about to be raped by a circle of lecherous men when she is suddenly rescued by a man visiting the group to ask about a magical mirror. The man, Montgomery Fairfax is an American Civil War hero, who has just inherited the title Lord Fairfax and Doncaster Hall, a beautiful estate in the Scottish Highlands. When he returns Veronica home, clad only in his cloak, her uncle the earl insists that Montgomery marry her. So he does, taking her to Scotland. Haunted by the ghosts of his past and not wanting a wife, he pays her little attention to Veronica except in bed. Veronica, on the other hand, is happy to be away from her miserable family and back in her beloved Highlands and vows to become a good wife. Montgomery has little desire to be the lord of a going concern and wants only to continue his scientific endeavor to develop a steering mechanism for his hot air balloons he worked on during the war.
I can't tell you why this story never grabbed me. But it didn't. Once they were in Scotland, not much seemed to happen outside of ordinary life. Perhaps that was it. I didn't like her family who visited them (she didn't either). Also, the "black moment" where he thought she might be behind a plot to do him harm seemed contrived. All that detracted from what might have been a better story. Certainly she writes very well and the concept was novel for which I give her full marks. But I'm rating it as 3 and 1/2 stars. If you are a Ranney fan, you likely won't be disappointed. But I would have liked more.
July 19, 2011
RATING:4.5)A BORROWED SCOT by Karen Raney is a exciting historical romance set in Scotland. It is a wonderfully written story of love and romance. It has romance,love,forgivness,sorrow,hope,guilt,sweet sensuality,honor,mending hearts one emotion at a time, hopelessness and becoming "A Borrowed Scot". This is the story of a Virginia man who becomes a borrowed Scot. Montgomery Fairfax,has just become the 11th Lord of Fairfax,through his grandfather,but he is a native of Virginia,he is a civil war hero,loves aircrafts,stars,lost not only family but also his home in Virgina.He has much guilt,many memories,and loves stars and aircrafts. He travels to Scotland to claim his inheritance,finds more that he wanted,including a new wife. Veronica MacLeod,is a bonny lass of Scotland,who lost her family to a tragic fire,is a poor relation to her mother's brother's family,who lives in England,she longs to go back to Scotland.She also has a "gift to be able to read other's emotions".Due to a misunderstanding Montgomery is forced to wed Veronica.While Veronica hopes for love,and happiness,Montgomery wishes to be left alone with his memories,guilt,sorrow and his aircrafts.But danger lurks in the background for Veronica but affects Montgomery,as the attraction grows between Montgomery and Veronica.They will have to learn to trust each other. This is a wonderful story.Wheree hopelessness grows into happiness,peace and true love. What a heartwarming,passionate story of love,forgiveness,and a call to the land...Scottish land that is."A Borrowed Scot" is a must read that is fast paced,while the characters capture your heart.Some of them anyway. This book was received for the purpose of review from Net Galley and the publisher.Details can be found at Avon,an imprint of Harper Collins Publishing and My Book Addiction Reviews.
June 27, 2011
I read a LOT of highland romances, cliche many may be. Even so, it's not often I find a highland romance with an American in the starring role. And, of these mostly the Americans are perceived with distaste by the characters.
Being American is one of the themes of this novel, and is entangled with belongingness. From the very start, Montgomery Fairfax has always belonged to the new world. The feeling of isolation is one of his constant companions, due to his sudden reclamation as a lord, the other one being guilt - the reason for remains a mystery for much of the book but is eventually revealed towards the end. To say Montgomery is confused is inadequate I think, as he is erratic, cynical and is often times guarded.
Veronica is a little naive - as one would normally expect - but she is also fiercely persistent. Throughout the book Veronica tries to break down her husband's walls, discover his past and spare him the guilt that so obviously gnaws at him. She appears to be the driving force of their marriage and her efforts continually surprises her husband. While there is nothing particularly spectacular about the journey it is nonetheless exciting, sweet and terribly romantic!
Interestingly, one of the integral parts of this book is a mirror - which I believe is its link to the previous books in the series. It's interesting to say the least and is integrated well into the story, although frankly it does little difference to how the overall book turned out. Perhaps I am missing a metaphor for it, but I believe that isn't very likely, from what I gather in the plot.
Being American is one of the themes of this novel, and is entangled with belongingness. From the very start, Montgomery Fairfax has always belonged to the new world. The feeling of isolation is one of his constant companions, due to his sudden reclamation as a lord, the other one being guilt - the reason for remains a mystery for much of the book but is eventually revealed towards the end. To say Montgomery is confused is inadequate I think, as he is erratic, cynical and is often times guarded.
Veronica is a little naive - as one would normally expect - but she is also fiercely persistent. Throughout the book Veronica tries to break down her husband's walls, discover his past and spare him the guilt that so obviously gnaws at him. She appears to be the driving force of their marriage and her efforts continually surprises her husband. While there is nothing particularly spectacular about the journey it is nonetheless exciting, sweet and terribly romantic!
Interestingly, one of the integral parts of this book is a mirror - which I believe is its link to the previous books in the series. It's interesting to say the least and is integrated well into the story, although frankly it does little difference to how the overall book turned out. Perhaps I am missing a metaphor for it, but I believe that isn't very likely, from what I gather in the plot.
March 28, 2011
My Thoughts:
We start the story off with Veronica and Montgomery at a secret society meeting. Neither knows about the other at this point, but that will all change!
Veronica gets herself into a bit of trouble with the Society Of The Mercaii. American Montgomery Fairfax, the new Lord of Dorchester Hall is there observing and rescues Veronica from a rather unpleasant situation.
Upon returning to Veronica's family residence - her Uncles. Her cousin Amanda has raised the alarm.. forcing the couple into an unwanted marriage. The couple leaves for Scotland to Montgomery's newly acquired estate.
I enjoyed the story, but just was left wanting more from the characters. Amanda - Veronica's cousin started out as possible villain. She was blackmailing Veronica for extra pin money. Using threats of telling on Veronica to get what she wanted. I was hoping for more out of this character.
I liked Veronica, she was witty and had some spunk. She kept Montgomery on his toes. Sadly she was not well treated by her husband. He shamefully used her and kept her at arms length. Both characters had a sad past that neither wanted to share with the other. Which created some major tension and problems with their relationship. I liked this - it gave Veronica and Montgomery a way to connect.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys historical and Scottish romances.
My Rating:
3 / 5
We start the story off with Veronica and Montgomery at a secret society meeting. Neither knows about the other at this point, but that will all change!
Veronica gets herself into a bit of trouble with the Society Of The Mercaii. American Montgomery Fairfax, the new Lord of Dorchester Hall is there observing and rescues Veronica from a rather unpleasant situation.
Upon returning to Veronica's family residence - her Uncles. Her cousin Amanda has raised the alarm.. forcing the couple into an unwanted marriage. The couple leaves for Scotland to Montgomery's newly acquired estate.
I enjoyed the story, but just was left wanting more from the characters. Amanda - Veronica's cousin started out as possible villain. She was blackmailing Veronica for extra pin money. Using threats of telling on Veronica to get what she wanted. I was hoping for more out of this character.
I liked Veronica, she was witty and had some spunk. She kept Montgomery on his toes. Sadly she was not well treated by her husband. He shamefully used her and kept her at arms length. Both characters had a sad past that neither wanted to share with the other. Which created some major tension and problems with their relationship. I liked this - it gave Veronica and Montgomery a way to connect.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys historical and Scottish romances.
My Rating:
3 / 5
July 13, 2011
Montgomery Fairfax is the new 11th Lord Fairfax of Doncaster Hall. He is also to new England, new to Scotland and he finds himself a new husband when he didn't intend to be. That's what happens when you rescue a damsel in distress. Montgomery is from America. The time period is right after the Civil War.
Montgomery has secrets from his past he doesn't want to share with anyone. Not even his new bride Veronica MacLeod. Veronica has her share of secrets and guilt. The characters grow quite nicely as the plot develops. The time period is very interesting.
I was not into the occult in this book. There wasn't much to it, but it was important to the hero and heroin's meeting.
I thought the epilogue was a waste on me. I almost gave the book a 4 because of it, but alas decided on a 5 because it was an interesting book with several interesting historical facts included.
Montgomery has secrets from his past he doesn't want to share with anyone. Not even his new bride Veronica MacLeod. Veronica has her share of secrets and guilt. The characters grow quite nicely as the plot develops. The time period is very interesting.
I was not into the occult in this book. There wasn't much to it, but it was important to the hero and heroin's meeting.
I thought the epilogue was a waste on me. I almost gave the book a 4 because of it, but alas decided on a 5 because it was an interesting book with several interesting historical facts included.
September 3, 2016
I found Veronica a delight. She has not had an easy time since her parents died and she came to live with her aunt and uncle and their brood of arrogant progeny. Veronica has a "gift" of sensing peoples emotions which has supported her natural sense of sympathy for others. How she met Montgomery was a bit "out there" but the author ties it up in the end. It is a beautiful story of two hurting people healing each other. It happens slowly, no big epiphany, so it is completely believable. Montgomery is a man you just want to hug, then hug again. There are so many ghosts in his past. The two of them are absolutely in lust with each other. They can't figure out why they work so well intimately yet struggle to connect otherwise. How they eventually fall in love was a treat to read.
May 19, 2011
I was unsure how to rate this book. On one hand, I enjoyed the story and absolutely loved the independet and outspoken nature of Veronica. As well as, watching the relationship grow and develop between the two lead characters. On the other hand though, I found it hard to lose myself in the story, and thought the other characters okay, but not remarkable. Ofcoure, I like the ending, and thought the epilogue wrapped up the trilogy nicely. If asked, I would recommend this book to fans of the author or the "trilogy".
January 9, 2012
1866 is a very good year. A BORROWED SCOT takes us from the streets of London to the beauty & wilds of Scotland. We meet Veronica Moira MacLeod and Montgomery Fairfax in a most unexpected and intriguing situation. Veronica quickly became a favourite of mine. She is adventurous and spirited. While Montgomery is bold and direct, though troubled and haunted by his past. The interactions between the two are honest, amusing, frustrated and seductive. The story dips into some very interesting areas of history which I relished. A BORROWED SCOT is a delicious read.
June 30, 2011
Veronica lost her parents in a tragic accident and is living as a poor relative with family. Montgomery is an American who served honorably in the Civil War. He is tortured by memories of his family who were torn apart by the same war. He has come to Europe to claim his birthright. The two meet when Montgomery "saves" Veronica's reputation. Thru lusty adventures, the two find themselves and each other. It's well worth the read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews