Book Review: The Last Duke (1797) by Jess Michaels

The Last Duke is the tenth, and last, book in the 1797 series by Jess Michaels. I have read some, but not all, of the books in this series. While those that have read them all will get more out of each book because of the character building and past situations, they can all stand up well on their own. 

When Christopher “Kit” Collins’ father dies, he is devastated, but he must swiftly take on the title of Duke of Kingsacre and all the responsibility that comes with it. Including the care of his very young illegitimate half-sister, who is now his ward. He is very upset when he discovers the governess his father hired for the child just before his death is Sarah Carlton. Sarah is equally disturbed by the arrival of her new employer, as she and Kit once had an unpleasant encounter when she was at her lowest point. But since she has no other place to go, she can only hope he will not sack her. Thanks to the adoration of his sister, he does not and the two enter into a wary truce because they both care for the child. A truce that explodes one passionate night after a nearly tragic accident. Comfort leads to more and soon the two are engaged in an affair. But when danger comes to threaten the child they both love, they must overcome their deeply rooted mistrust and work together to keep her safe. And perhaps find a way to make a family together.

The Last Duke is a story about second chances, and paying attention to your own heart and mind, not just your responsibilities. Kit has spent his whole life preparing for the day he became Duke, although he would much rather have his father beside him. Over the years he has had friends, but has spent most of his energy on being who he should be. Sarah has spent most of her adult life trying to guarantee her survival while still fitting the expectations of those around her. When they are thrown more closely together they discover what both had hidden from for years, but expectations and assumptions are the biggest obstacles. I liked the characters, and found them well constructed. I think their growth and interactions were also very well done. My only real issues is that I would have liked Sarah to show the backbone in standing up to Kit that she shows elsewhere in the book. I really wanted her to stand up for what she wanted more, rather than being the perfect 'good girl' and trying to fit into the niche that society would have her stay in. 

The Last Duke is a solid conclusion to this series, and a fun read. 

Book Review: A Rose in the Highlands (Highland Roses School) by Heather McCollum

A Rose in the Highlands is the first book in the Highland Roses School series by Heather McCollum. Each book in this series is also a stand alone novel.

Evelyn Worthington leaves England behind to create a school for ladies in her brother's newly purchased Scottish castle. After the long, difficult journey north, Evelyn is shocked to find that not only has the castle been scorched by fire, but a brawny, half-dressed highlander bars her entry – at sword point. Clan chief Greyson "Grey" Campbell would rather die than see his family home, Finlarig Castle, fall into English hands. So when the beautiful Sassenach flashes a bill of sale before him, it's war. But when the battles between them grow hotter, passions flare. Grey has more to worry about than a headstrong English lass and as secrets are revealed and muskets are lit, everything – the fates of the Campbell Clan, Evelyn's school, and their lives – are in jeopardy.

A Rose in the Highlands is a historical romance that hit all the right notes for me. Strong and determined characters with good hearts that need to fight incredible odds to find happiness. There was a good mix of humor, danger, and heart touching moments. I love the independence, strength, and compassion that both Evelyn and Greyson show- even when they are being stubborn and engaged in battle. I liked the depths that even the side characters are given, making the entire story more compelling. I found the fact that once Eve and Grey admitted their feelings to themselves they gave each other the benefit of the doubt and talked over miscommunications or issues rather than ignoring them or believing the worst. I also like that they each could admit their faults, and were not blind the the prejudices that they (and those around them) had and how it might affect everything. That awareness and openness to change was nice to see. The only thing that jarred me a little was the initial jump into bed between Eve and Grey, but it really did work in the story. I think it just felt like they went from zero to sixty in an instant with no shyness or awkward moments that one might expect. However, if that is the only thing that did not flow perfectly for me, that still makes this a wonderful book.

A Rose in the Highlands is an enjoyable and engaging read. I am going to have to pick up a copy of the next book, which tells Scarlet's story, very soon.

Early Book Review: It's Getting Scot in Here (Wild Wicked Highlanders) by Suzanne Enoch

It's Getting Scot in Here is the first book in the Wild Wicked Highlanders series by Suzanne Enoch. It is currently scheduled for release on February 26 2019.

Marry or lose their estate; that’s the devil’s bargain he and his brothers must follow. But wild Highlander Niall MacTaggert’s stubborn oldest brother wants nothing to do with marrying the sophisticated, pinky-out Lady Amelia-Rose his mother has chosen for him, even to save their land. Niall’s only goal is to soften up the London socialite, and show his brother the warm beauty behind the shiny, polished front. But what Niall doesn’t expect to find is the woman of his dreams.

It's Getting Scot in Here is a historical romance that had me smiling throughout. Niall and his brothers are less than thrilled with the prospect of marrying, never mind having to quickly pick a bride in London. As the peacemaker Niall finds himself stuck in the middle trying to limit arguments and hurt feelings, and the possibility of losing the needed support for his home. Part of this involves smoothing the way when his oldest brother and his potential bride clash. I enjoyed getting to know Niall, and seeing him struggle with himself and doing the right thing. I really connected with, and felt for, Amelia-Rose as she deals with controlling parents and the expectations of others. Seeing Niall and Amy find themselves and each other slowly was wonderful. I liked the bantering and wit, and they way readers could feel the relationship grow even as the characters were in denial or fought against it. I also liked seeing the way London society showed the good and the bad- the people that would do anything for the acceptance (or to keep the power it brings) alongside those that try to help others through the same channels. Showing both sides of a society I would have not enjoyed at all was well done and important, because we often only see one side. I really enjoyed getting to know the cast of characters introduced in this book, and I look forward to continuing the series.

It's Getting Scot in Here is a fast and fun historical romance that hit all the right notes for me. I am looking forward to seeing Niall's brother find their own happy endings as the series continues.

Book Review: Forgetting the Scot (Highlanders of Balforss) by Jennifer Trethewey

Forgetting the Scot is the third book in the Highlanders of Balforss series by Jennifer Trethewey. While I have read the previous books, each stands up on its own as well.

Virginia Whitebridge is trapped in a loveless, abusive marriage. The law says her husband can have whatever he wants from her—so he's taken her inheritance. And he tried to kill her. After a close escape, Virginia feels protected for the first time in forever, thanks to the Scottish Highlands and the Highlander Magnus Sinclair. But she must go back to England, regardless of the danger, to reclaim what's hers. Even if it means leaving her heart in Scotland. It's just Magnus's luck that he's fallen for a woman he can't have. Virginia is rich and titled, and English. To keep her safe, he must follow her to the one place he loathes—England. Where the bowing, preening London Society has a secret language of manners unknown to him. Where he is too large, too uncivilized, too everything. Despite omens that death awaits him there, Magnus vows to help Virginia go to London and restore her fortune. Get in. Get out. Or die trying.

Forgetting the Scot is an engaging and entertaining read. I really enjoyed the characters, and I think newcomers to the series will enjoy the cast of characters and find them interesting, I think returning readers with enjoy the return of favorite characters and the overlapping of stories even more. I liked Virginia's character and how she is always willing to put others first, even to her own detriment, without being foolish about it. Magnus consistently made me smile. The juxtaposition of his size and protective anger with his sweet and occasionally naive nature made me love him as soon as I read from his point of view.  The problems that Virginia and crew face are pretty daunting, but I love that friendship, determination, and honest are what overcome them in the end. There were some unexpected twists and surprises, and some moments that I am hoping to see in the future. I really enjoyed the read, and and rather looking forward to more about some of the secondary characters that are still unattached or working through the problems that are keeping them from their happily ever after.

Forgetting the Scot is another enjoyable, and well researched, read from Trethewey. I look forward to what ever comes next.

Book Review: Last Night With the Earl (Devils of Dover) by Kelly Bowen

Last Night With the Earl is the second book in the Devils of Dover series by Kelly Bowen. I did read the first book in this series, but think that while some of the characters and situations are set up and developed in the first book, they can be read alone as well.

Earl. War hero. Notorious rake. After the Battle of Waterloo, Eli Dawes was presumed dead-and would have happily stayed that way. He's no longer the reckless young man he once was, and only half as pretty. All he wants is to hide away in his country home, where no one can see his scars. But when he tries to sneak into his old bedroom in the middle of the night, he's shocked to find someone already there. Rose Hayward remembers Eli as the arrogant lord who helped her late fiance betray her. Finding him stealing into her art studio doesn't correct her impression. Her only thought is to get him to leave immediately. Yet the tension between them is electric, and she can't help but be drawn to him. He might be back from the dead, but it's Rose who is suddenly feeling very, very much alive.

Last Night With the Earl is an engaging read and I found myself very interested in the characters and what makes them tick from the very beginning. Eli might have once been a golden boy and a rake, but war and life have forced him to grow up, and he wants to do better, be better. He is reluctant to face his demons, but does what he must to gain what he wants. Rose has been hurt, and has emotional scars, but has turned her lesson into fodder for art and helping others see themselves as they truly are rather than how society talks about them. She still has her own issues with taking her own advice, but does the best she can. When these old friends come together they have to face those demons and issues, as well as betrayals. I like how honest and open they were with each other, and how hard they each had to work with their own issues, and helping each other face up to the things they did not really deal with. That pushing each other and coming to terms with their own faults, wounds, and worries was very well done. I thought Eli and Rose were well matched, and complemented each other, and challenged each other, almost perfectly. I enjoyed the read, and was glad that I picked this one up. I think I will be continuing the series, mostly because of my curiosity about just what is going on with Rose's brother Harland. 

Last Night With the Earl is an entertaining read. I enjoyed returning to a good group of characters, and am curious about what will happen next.

Book Review: The Duke with the Dragon Tattoo (Victorian Rebels) by Kerrigan Byrne

The Duke with the Dragon Tattoo is the sixth book in the Victorian Rebels series by Kerrigan Byrne.  I have read three of the previous books, and recognized some of the secondary characters because of it, but think those fresh to the series will be able to fully enjoy this installment without having read the previous books. 

He is known only as The Rook. A man with no name, no past, no memories. He awakens in a mass grave, a magnificent dragon tattoo on his muscled forearm the sole clue to his mysterious origins. His only hope for survival—and salvation—lies in the deep, fiery eyes of the beautiful stranger who finds him. Who nurses him back to health. And who calms the restless demons in his soul. Lorelai will never forget the night she rescued the broken dark angel in the woods, a devilishly handsome man who haunts her dreams to this day. Crippled as a child, she devoted herself to healing the poor tortured man. And when he left, he took a piece of her heart with him. Now, after all these years, The Rook has returned. Like a phantom, he sweeps back into her life and avenges those who wronged her. But can she trust a man who’s been branded a rebel, a thief, and a killer? And can she trust herself to resist him when he takes her in his arms?

The Duke with the Dragon Tattoo is a historical romance about redemption and second chances. I liked Lorelai, and how she is both optimistic and smart about her own survival. She faces the ugly things in her world and finds a way to do as much good as she can and survive at the same time. The Rook, Ash, or whatever you want to call our leading man has been through hell. He was imprisoned, beaten and left for dead, and more. He should be a sympathetic character, and sometimes I really do fear for him and empathize with the positions he finds himself in. However, more often than not he rubs me the wrong way and I just find him creepy. As awesome as Lorelai is, and how much love and caring she has, it is not her job to fix him (or anyone). Nothing about his obsession with her, and his envisioning her as so perfect and pure, seems romantic to me. It feels like it will lead to a different kind of captivity and abuse rather than the partnership real love and relationships should have. Others might not have such a strong reaction to this, but it hit me hard and left me almost rooting for those that wanted to keep the pair apart, although for different reasons. I think the action, danger, and secondary characters were all very well done, and while I guessed at the treasure very early in the book, I thought the reveal was satisfying. 

The Duke with the Dragon Tattoo is a book that left me conflicted. I enjoyed some of it, but found our 'hero' to be more than a little problematic and a bit creepy to be honest. I remember liking the previous books more, so I will be willing to give the author another go. 

Book Review: Highland Wolf (Murray Clan) by Hannah Howell

Highland Wolf is the fifteenth book in the Murray Clan series by Hannah Howell. While reading this books as a series can give readers some early understanding of the characters and relationships, each book can stand well on its own. I have read several books from the series, but far from all of them.

Annora MacKay senses a disturbing evil in Dunncraig Keep, the estate acquired by her cousin, a cruel and ruthless man. Only her affection for the tiny girl he claims is his daughter stops her from fleeing. Then a mysterious woodcarver arrives at the castle, and she cannot stop thinking about him. James Drummond, once a laird, now an outcast, wants what was stolen from him; his good name, his lands, and his child. His disguise for getting into Dunncraig is step one of his plan, but the enticing raven-haired woman who cares for his daughter is an unwelcome surprise. For he has come seeking justice, not love.

Highland Wolf is an entertaining read. I liked Annora's character, she had a nice mixture of strong and sweet and made good choices. I liked James as well, although I feel like I was less connected with him than Annora. He was strong but compassionate, and like most men in the Murray clan throughout the series, it is he acceptance and care for others that gave him the tools he needed to come out on top. I thought the intrigue and danger was well done, although some moments did feel a little over the top. I liked the growth of relationship between Annora and James. Even though there was instant attraction, both tried to be smart about the danger involved in forging any kind of relationship. I also liked how much of a role little Meggie had in the story, and how important she was to the major players. 

Highland Wolf is exactly what fans of the author and series will be looking for. There is danger, love, and a touch of something special in the characters. Not the best highland historical, but an enjoyable read with plenty of action and emotion. 

Book Review: Luck of the Bride (Cavensham Heiresses) by Janna MacGregor

Luck of the Bride is the third book in the Cavensham Heiresses series by Janna MacGregor. I have not read the previous books in the series, but was able to fully enjoy the read. While I think that those that have been following the series will have a better understanding of some of the characters and relationships, this book does stand up perfectly well on its own.

March Lawson is an orphan who, for the past eight years, has struggled to raise her siblings on a meager allowance. Most women March’s age would be picking out ball gowns for the upcoming season. But March’s focus is not on finding a husband. First, she must devote her energies to just one man: the coldhearted skinflint who refuses to release her inheritance. Michael Cavensham, the Marquess of McCalpin, is not a heartless man. When he learns that Miss Lawson has been forging his name to procure funds, he can’t bring himself to have her arrested—not when the bold-faced embezzler is so enchantingly beautiful. Instead, McCalpin agrees to visit her home to assess the situation more closely. March has no choice but to accept. But how can she manage the handsome trustee who controls her purse strings—when he tugs at her heart strings as well?

Luck of the Bride is a historical romance that takes one hardworking and intelligent woman, determined to protect her siblings and one stubborn but basically good hearted man and tosses them together. For the most part, I really liked March, her hard work and loyalty to her family was well done and admirable- and even when she did less than ethical things it was for good reason. Her self doubt is realistic and understandable- and I could completely understand where she was coming from in that respect- but some of her wishy washy moments with Michael left me less than impressed. Micheal is haunted by his difficulties with numbers, and has a hard time trusting. His brother and champion William is even less trusting, and I think the pair feed off each other and while realistic that just made me want to kick the pair. I did like how Michael really did love and want to protect March, and how determined he was to have her understand how beautiful she was. However, I have to admit that while his lack of trust was kind of understandable, it really bothered me how quickly he believed the worst of March- and how quickly she forgave him when it was time for the HEA. It just left me a little disheartened and cold rather than happy for them. 

Luck of the Bride was hit and miss for me. I liked the premise and most of the characters, but little things disappointed me throughout and left me less engaged than I wanted to be. It was an entertaining read, but I think it fell short of what it could have been.

Book Review: The Undercover Duke (1797 Club) by Jess Michaels

The Undercover Duke is the sixth book in the 1797 Club series by Jess Michaels. I have not read all of the books in this series, and have found that there is some connections with characters to make reading as a series rewarding- but each can stand up well on its own.

Lucas Vincent may be the Duke of Willowby but he’s never acted as such. He’s been too busy working for the War Department as a spy. But years of dangerous work has finally caught up to him and he was involved in a violent attack that nearly killed him. Forced home, his angry, aggressive desire to get back in the field and find out to who betrayed him is keeping him from healing. Diana Oakford was raised by a physician who served the King’s War Department and she knows better than most the dangers that job entails. She was also trained in healing, so when she’s asked to come and assist with Lucas’s recovery she has a hard time refusing. Once they’re alone together an unexpected connection begins to grow between these two people who have fought their emotions all their lives and more begins to heal than just Lucas’s broken body. But just when they start to believe they could find some kind of happiness, the past rears its ugly head and Lucas will have to choose between the life he once led and the woman who has changed his world.

The Undercover Duke is a story that offers good characters and some serious complications. Lucas is a spy that has been seriously injured, and has some underlying emotional wounds. Diana has her own grief to deal with, and is willing to help because of who asked and the connection of both men to her father. I liked watching the pair get to know each other, and become partners in more than one way. I found the emotional struggles they share, and the barriers that they need to break down to trust each other well done. I will admit that I had a good idea about who the danger was, and some of the details, well before the climax. I was not thrilled with how it all unfolded,. but it worked in the story. I did enjoy the banter between Lucas and Diana, and the inclusion of some characters from previous books. I like the support and friendship they offer, and thought that they might have played a bigger role than they did. I did enjoy the read, but it did not live up to the expectations I had for the author.

The Undercover Duke is a good, but not great, addition to the series. 

Book Review: One for the Rogue (Studies in Scandal) by Manda Collins

One for the Rogue is the fourth book in the Studies in Scandal series by Manda Collins. I have not read the previous books, and think that the romance stands well on its own. However, I think that those that read the series in order will enjoy it more than newcomers because of the knowledge of the characters, setting, and circumstances. 

Geologist Gemma Hastings has no interest in pursuing romance, and no patience for Lord Cameron Lisle- an esteemed fossil hunter who has a way of always honing in on her territory. But when a shocking attack puts Gemma in very real danger, she may have to accept Lisle’s offers of protection. Even if that means entering into a dangerous flirtation. Lisle was once amused by Gemma’s dedication to her work. But now that he understands how much he’s underestimated her—a woman whose beauty is matched only by her genius—Lisle is desperate to prove his respect and prove himself worthy of her. But is he too late? A bitter rival, desperate to steal Gemma’s scientific findings, is still at-large. Can Lisle help uncover the culprit and keep her safe—forever, in his loving arms?

One for the Rogue is aq fast, fun romance with a dash of enemies turn lover in the mix. Gemma and Cameron have been at odds since the first met. However, Cam is a better man than he might have appeared and is much more respectful towards the intelligence and accomplishments of the women around him than his peers. Unfortunately, he is only made aware of how far he has to go in this vein when he hears his colleagues belittle Gemma and other women he respects. Gemma is proud, and wants her work and discoveries to get the credit they deserve, which is near impossible in her field and time. When greed and conspiracy puts everything at risk Can and Gemma end up working together, and becoming friends.  I loved watching the two dance around each other, respect, friendship, and attracting making things both easier and more difficult as they try to solve the mystery of murder and theft. I like that both characters have faults, and need to work through them. I really enjoyed watching them work together, and get frustrated with each other and the secondary characters that offered either frustrating interruptions or substantial dangers. There was a nice balance of humor and suspense, with a nice dash of  extremely intelligent characters. 

One for the Rogue is a fun and engaging read that has me curious about the previous books in the series. I just might go back and start the series from the start, when I find the time.

Book Review: Tempting The Laird (Highland Grooms) by Julia London

Tempting The Laird is the fifth book in the Highland Grooms series by Julia London. I felt like I might have read other books in the series, and I know I have read more from this author, but I cannot find any related reviews in my archives.

Catriona Mackenzie’s reputation as unruly precedes her everywhere she goes. Her beloved late aunt Zelda taught Cat to live out loud and speak her mind, and that’s exactly what she does when Zelda’s legacy, a refuge for women in need, comes under fire. When her quest puts her in the path of the disturbingly mysterious Hamlin Graham, Duke of Montrose, Cat is soon caught up in the provocative rumors surrounding the dark duke. Shrouded in secrets, a hostage of lies, Hamlin must endure the fear and suspicion of those who believe he is a murderer. The sudden disappearance of his wife and the truth he keeps silent are a risk to his chances at earning a coveted parliamentary seat. But he’s kept his affairs tightly held until a woman with sparkling eyes and brazen determination appears unexpectedly in his life. Deadly allegations might be his downfall, but his unleashed passion could be the duke’s ultimate undoing.

Tempting The Laird is an engaging read, and I enjoyed Catriona's character (and her family) more than anything else from the book. Cat is in her thirties and while her family loves her, they want jher to find the love and life they have all found. Cat is certain that is not to be, so focuses on helping the women and children in her care after her aunt passes away. Loving family also being a meddling family, Cat is tossed into an unwanted adventure. I love that even when she should, she does not care what other people say or think about her. She will do what she considered best and ignore the looks and comments. Hamlin has often tried to do the same, but trying to win a seat in parliament makes him a little more cautious. I thought it had a nice hint of Gothic romance, which resolved itself nicely. The conclusion made me very happy, and I liked that  Cat's independence and honest lasted until the very end, rather than her caving to someone else's demands, which often happens.  I I loved the pair's banter and the secondary character's effect on their relationship.  I have to admit that I read another book fairly recently with several similar secondary characters, which honestly confused me for a bit and sent me down the rabbit hole trying to figure out if the stories are connected and whatnot- but I could find no reason for it.

Tempting The Laird is at well done historical romance, it has well done characters and an entertaining plot. I have to admit that I was so distracted by the secondary character similarities distracted me from the story and led to my mind wandering. I think if I had not read the other book (which I actually highly enjoyed) I might have liked this one more. 

Book Review: Laird of the Black Isle (The MacGregors: Highland Heirs) by Paula Quinn

Laird of the Black Isle is the seventh book in The MacGregors: Highland Heirs series by Paula Quinn. I think I have read some of the other books in this series, but not all of them. I think having read the series will help with some character information, each book can largely stand on their own and be enjoyed in their own right. 

Lachlan MacKenzie has nothing left to lose since his wife and daughter were killed. But when a shadowy figure reveals his little girl might still be alive, Lachlan will do whatever it takes to find her, even abduct a lass from the MacGregor clan for an exchange. But the laird of the Black Isle won't let anything interfere with his mission, not even his beautiful, stubborn captive. All Mailie MacGregor wants is to return home to her family. And the Highland beast who captured her can go to the devil. Her plan: to thwart him at any cost and win her freedom. But she never expected to be so drawn to the fierce warrior and the desire in his eyes. 

Laird of the Black Isle is a nice historical novel about redemption for someone that has faced war, done and seen horrible things, and faced terrible losses. Lachlan has nothing to lose, is willing to go against honor to kidnap an innocent woman for the slim hope of finding his daughter. Mallie is smart, kind, and independent with plenty of strong and honorable men in her family so she has high expectations. Despite being kidnapped, she softens towards Lachlan as she learns more about him, and he grows and softens as she forces him to face his losses and how his past has changed him. I enjoyed both characters, as well as the secondary characters that cropped up in the village and through Mallie's family. I like that there was no instant love, but rather a slow getting to know and understand each other. I also liked the extra dash of danger, but thought that could have come about a little sooner, I just kept expecting the man behind all the bad things in the story to pop around the corner at any moment, and I felt like it took forever for it to finally happen. I will admit that I was glad to get such a complete happy ending. 

Laird of the Black Isle is a historical romance with a good dash of danger and plenty of sweetness. I liked the balance, and think that fans of the genre, and this author in particular, will enjoy the read.

Book Review: Highland Conquest (Sons of Gregor McLeod) by Alyson McLayne

Highland Conquest is the second book in the Sons of Gregor McLeod series by Alyson McLayne. I did not read the first book in the series, but the important happenings of the first book are well explained, and newcomers can easily enjoy the read without feeling the loss- although they might want to go back and read it after some of the female characters that feature in that story are described. 

Laird Lachlan MacKay never planned on leading his clan, but when his older brother was murdered, he was left with no choice. His vow to avenge his brother has led him to the MacPherson clan—and their bewitching healer, Amber. Amber MacPherson is desperate. Dressed as a boy to escape her clan's treacherous leader, she runs right into Lachlan—who orders her detained. At first she causes him nothing but frustration, especially when she blackmails him into helping her clan. But when she's threatened by the same man who murdered his brother, Lachlan will do whatever it takes to keep her safe—and by his side. 

Highland Conquest captured my attention from the start, and kept it through the entire read. I loved the unconventional meeting between Lachlan and Amber, and the slow growth of the relationship between the pair. Neither are looking for love, or plans to marry.  I like how much they have in common, and the way they argue and spar their way through the book. Amber is strong and smart, and sometimes a little too perfect and beloved by her clan. I understand how that kind of adoration came to be, but it also felt a little at odds with the way some moments of the story played out. I like that Amber is independent and willing to do anything to protect or heal others. Lachlan is well written as well, and I enjoyed his patient and resilient pursuit of Amber. I also like that he was not perfect, he was impatient in his pursuit of his brother's killer, and did not always say or do the perfect thing. However, this just made him a more real and complex character. The secondary characters were interesting and just as well constructed as the main players. The complexity of the search for the bad guy, and the effort he puts into death, destruction, and depravity is quite stunning. So much more than I expected, and watching it all play out had me on the edge of my sit. I will admit that I spent most of the last moments of the book waiting for the last shoe to drop, and was still surprised with some of the turns the final showdown took. I enjoyed the ride as the pair found their happy ever after, and think that the small details that were left unanswered will be handled as the series continues.

Highland Conquest is a heart wrenching and warming romance with a slow burn. I think the complex, independent characters really made the read, and I just might need to further explore the series.

Book Review: Rescued by a Highlander (Grant Clan) by Keira Montclair

Rescued by a Highlander is the first book in the Grant Clan series of historical romances by Keira Montclair. While it was originally published in 2013, it has been newly revised and updated with a new editor.

Madeline MacDonald has been a victim of her stepbrother's cruelty ever since her parents' death in a fire two years ago. Forced into a betrothal to a man she hates, her only way out is to escape to a convent. Laird Alexander Grant is honor bound to rescue Maddie after seeing the bruises on her face. What he doesn't realize is that once he holds the beaten lass in his arms, his heart will never be the same. He vows revenge for the abuse she was forced to endure and yearns to make the sweet woman with an iron will his, but can he help her fight the demons in her mind left behind by her abusers' horrid treatment?

Rescued by a Highlander is a book that I thought I would love, but it never really worked for me. Let's start with the good. I love books that have a abuse survive finding peace, love, and a happy ever after. I really do. I adore books were the other half of that couple is working towards understanding and helping, and while they make mistakes (like yelling at them when worried about their safety) they work on it. I was thrilled with Alex's patience with Maddie, and willingness to take things super slow and to always check in with consent rather than forging ahead and assuming at any point. What I did not like was Maddie. While her ability to survive abuse stoically and deal with everything dealt to her was likely intended to show her as strong, I was left wondering why this woman that is strong, caring, and very pain tolerant would stay rather than trying to make an escape? She came off as a doormat rather than a survivor. Otherwise she was painted as perfect, sweet and so patient and kind that she did not even want her tormentors hurt. The characters felt a little flat, there was no real motivation for the bad guys, other than just being evil. In fact I read another historical with an abuse survive shortly after this, and I had trouble remembering much about this book other than what bothered me about Maddie. I had several other little things that irked me- but my biggest issue is that I was fully expecting to love this story and the characters. The disappointment of the heroine being a too perfect but passive, and a dig at homosexuality really left me less than happy with my read. 

Rescued by a Highlander is not for everyone. The characters are lacking depth but the idea of the story and the patience and thoughts of Alex in helping Maddie deal with her past might make it worth the read for some.