The Sinner (Return of the Highlanders #2) by Margaret Mallory

Oct 15, 2012 UniquelyMoi *Dhestiny* BlithelyBookish rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-for-review, historical-romance-highlanders, location-scotland, author-margaret-mallory, series-return-of-the-highlanders-ma, 2012-reads, 4-stars, reviewed-by-me, reviewed-for-netgalley, sexy-highland-heroes

The Sinner is the second book in Margaret Mallory’s Return of the Highlanders series. Set in 16th century Scotland, the turmoil of clan feuding, alliances by marriage and political unrest of the times makes this an exciting, funny, and sexy story.

Alex MacDonald is the Highland’s version of a rake, and proudly so, because if there was one thing he had learned from his parent’s marriage it was to avoid getting caught in one of his own at all cost. He sees nothing wrong with taking many a lass to...more
The Sinner is the second book in Margaret Mallory’s Return of the Highlanders series. Set in 16th century Scotland, the turmoil of clan feuding, alliances by marriage and political unrest of the times makes this an exciting, funny, and sexy story.

Alex MacDonald is the Highland’s version of a rake, and proudly so, because if there was one thing he had learned from his parent’s marriage it was to avoid getting caught in one of his own at all cost. He sees nothing wrong with taking many a lass to his bed because, as his father told him, “men like us needed women like we need the sea—and that one woman would never do for us.” But as often happens to these blissfully bedded men, it’s become apparent that he may have no choice when it comes to matrimony. The only problem is, the woman he’s set his sights on, Glynis McNeil, wants no part of Alex or marriage.

Glynis escaped one abusive husband and isn’t about to give marriage a second try, regardless of how much a good union would benefit her clan. Her reputation as an untamable, knife wielding woman has embarrassed her family, and she knows she should marry again, if for no other reason than to remove some of the shame, but she just can’t do it. Not even the handsome, charming, verra sexy Alex MacDonald can tempt her… Okay, okay, she’s tempted by him alright, but marriage has nothing to do with it!

I'll mention this for those who might be wondering, I have not read the first book in the series, The Guardian, and had no problem following this story whatsoever. It works very well as a stand alone novel, and that’s saying a lot coming from me, one who suffers from a chronic case of MR.BIOs – Must Read Books In Order syndrome.

The bottom line - The Sinner is a fast paced, entertaining tale that had me laughing, sighing and fanning myself. I love the historical elements used as a backdrop, the blending of fact and fiction. I've read a few book by Margaret Mallory and I've truly enjoyed each and every one because she knows how to write stories and characters I can’t help but love. I’m very much looking forward to reading more in this series.

This book was provided by netgalley.com in behalf of Forever, an Imprint of Grand Central Publishing.
(less)

15 likes · like · see review

Aug 12, 2012 Lynsey (The Demon Librarian) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: received-for-review, hunky-highlanders, squee-worthy, favourites, book-boyfriend, boo-hoo-grab-a-tissue, bad-ass-dude, netgalley

Favourite!

As a self-confessed Urban Fantasy fanatic it probably seems weird that I have this big soft spot for historical romance. Not all the time, but every now and again I just need some real romance, you know? And to me, no one does that better than a hunky highlander or a fearsome knight. They have to be warriors of some sort for my liking- no rakes, rogues, fops or dandies for me, thank you. I want battle-worn men with the scars to prove it. This is for two reasons: Reason one. Hello? Warr...more Favourite!

As a self-confessed Urban Fantasy fanatic it probably seems weird that I have this big soft spot for historical romance. Not all the time, but every now and again I just need some real romance, you know? And to me, no one does that better than a hunky highlander or a fearsome knight. They have to be warriors of some sort for my liking- no rakes, rogues, fops or dandies for me, thank you. I want battle-worn men with the scars to prove it. This is for two reasons: Reason one. Hello? Warriors, swords, big muscles, yeah, yeah, yeah, I really am that shallow. And reason two: slightly less shameful, it's because this generally means that the book will contain some kind of battle/conflict/fight scenes to keep my action-loving tomboy alter ego happy.

This book is quite simply one of the best of this genre I have read. It pretty much had everything I could hope for in a highlander romance.

The dialogue was one of my favourite parts. So authentic (or at least it seemed so to me). The banter was excellent, the stories that the characters would tell around a camp fire really served to bring them to life for me. I could imagine their lilting brogue as if I were sat amongst them.

The characters themselves were very enjoyable. After my initial worry over Alex's womanising ways - I'm not always a big fan of men who believe themselves God's gift to women- I grew to greatly appreciate his character and the changes he went through during the course of the book. The transformation was convincing and I genuinely believed it was sincere, which often isn't the case with former "sinners". Once a player, always a player as Jerry Springer would say.

Equally delightful was Glynis. From the initial encounter in her "disguise" to the very last pages, she was someone whom I respected and could easily empathise with. There was not a moment of whining from her regardless of the circumstances. She really was a great female lead.

I was very invested in both of these characters. Although sometimes I did want to scream at them to talk to each other, and indeed there were some painful, heart-rending moments to go through along the way, but to me, this just proves how good the book was. That I was so engrossed I felt the heartache right along with them.

The main story and the two or three sub-plots were all well paced. There was a great climactic finish which was very satisfying also. And a lovely epilogue as the cherry on the cake.

This is book two in a four-part series featuring each of the four warriors I met in this book. I know now that I will be reading the rest of them at some point. And I recommend that you do, too.

Review Copy: Received from the publisher for an honest review(less)

3 likes · like · see review

Jan 15, 2012 Laura the Highland Hussy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: highlander-books

http://www.demonloversbooksandmore.co...

”Four fearless warriors return to the Highlands to claim their lands and legacies. But all their trials on the battlefield can't prepare them for their greatest challenge yet: winning the hearts of four willful Scottish beauties.”

I loved The Guardian, so I was super excited to read this one. The Sinner is about Alex, and he didn’t disappoint. I liked the banter between our hero and heroine. Glynis is a stubborn and sassy lass who was sent back to her clan...more http://www.demonloversbooksandmore.co...

”Four fearless warriors return to the Highlands to claim their lands and legacies. But all their trials on the battlefield can't prepare them for their greatest challenge yet: winning the hearts of four willful Scottish beauties.”

I loved The Guardian, so I was super excited to read this one. The Sinner is about Alex, and he didn’t disappoint. I liked the banter between our hero and heroine. Glynis is a stubborn and sassy lass who was sent back to her clan in shame after stabbing her husband of 3 months (she stabbed his inner thigh, guess where she was aiming?). Her father wants to marry her off again, but she has sworn to never marry again.

Enter Alex, who has sworn a similar vow. The two of them hit it off, even though they didn't want to...isn't that just the way of it? You aren't looking for love, then POW! hit upside the head with all these feelings and emotions.

I liked Glynis’ father, even though I’m not sure we’re meant to like him until later on, but he was a very realistic laird, and he acted like it. I wish we’d seen more of the other 3 warriors, the bits we got of Duncan, Connor, and Ian were good scenes—I just wanted more of them.

At one point, Glynis has conned Alex into taking her into Edinburgh to live with her mother’s family. But she’s never met them. She never even thought to ask to stay with them for a visit. So while they are very welcoming to have her as a guest, they also want to marry her off. She’d never thought in a million years that they wouldn’t just allow her to be the spinster relative who grows old in the attic. I laughed at that, just because it made more sense than having rude relatives, or super sweet ones. When Alex came to say goodbye, she threw herself at him, begging him to take her home—cracked me up!

Loved Alex, and I really liked Glynis, but after they got married, her whole personality changed, or reverted, I guess. It bugged me because she kept saying she trusted Alex, but then she wouldn’t trust him. His actions were definitely hard to ignore, but at the same time, why why WHY just bail? She just froze up inside, refusing to talk anything over with him at all. At least, until it was almost too late. But that ending was tense, and had me turning the pages as fast as I could.

There were several surprises, and it’s action-packed. I really have begun to love Margaret Mallory’s storytelling. Whenever someone asks me what a good Highlander book is that they should read, I usually suggest something like Monica McCarty’s highlanders. I think Margaret Mallory’s writing reminds me a lot of Monica McCarty’s. It has that historically descriptive prose that instantly transports me to the wilds of Scotland, and weaves in everything from Gaelic phrases to actual historical events without making it feel tedious.

All in all, a great story, a fabulous Scottish Romance, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who loves a good Romance.

***ARC courtesy of netgalley.com
(less)

7 likes · like · see review

Feb 10, 2012 Avry15 rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical, romance, reviewed

originally appeared on:Bookshelf Confessions

“The Sinner”

It’s actually the title that lead me to read the book, and sure enough I find myself reading this, just in one sitting. Sure, I’ve read a lot of historical romances, but this is my first time to be faced with a Highland romance.. and I say this definitely blow me up...

I know this book comes in 4, and that this is the 2nd. I may not be able to compare it to the first, but since this is a stand-alone, I find myself totally engrossed with the...more

1 like · like · see review

Feb 12, 2012 Lisarenee rated it 5 of 5 stars

"I see three women, Alex Ban MacDonald," She said in a far-off voice.
"On your journey, three woman will call on ye for help, and ye must give it," She said. "But beware! One brings danger and another deceit."
"What about the third lass?" he asked.
"Ack." Tearlag gave him a sour look. "One has the the power to fulfill your deepest desires."

"Ye are a sinner, Alexander Ban," she called out. "And the time will come soon when ye will pay for your sins."

Alex MacDonald was a love 'em and leave 'em type a...more "I see three women, Alex Ban MacDonald," She said in a far-off voice.
"On your journey, three woman will call on ye for help, and ye must give it," She said. "But beware! One brings danger and another deceit."
"What about the third lass?" he asked.
"Ack." Tearlag gave him a sour look. "One has the the power to fulfill your deepest desires."

"Ye are a sinner, Alexander Ban," she called out. "And the time will come soon when ye will pay for your sins."

Alex MacDonald was a love 'em and leave 'em type a guy. Never sticking with just one woman for very long. He had no desire to ever settle down. When he got a letter from one of his former lovers, Sabine, letting him know she would be in Scotland and had a gift for him, he decided to consult Tearlag to see if making the journey to see Sabine would be worth it. Tearlag was a seer with a reputation for being fairly accurate with her readings. Even with the seers warning he never could have foreseen what was coming. His life was about to change...

"Your chances of catching a chieftan are poor now," her father said, his eyes traveling the room. "If ye had proven yourself a better breeder, it might be different."

Glynis MacNeil was an obedient daughter. When her father asked her to marry the chieftain of another clan, she dutifully did. Saying marriage didn't agree with her, would be putting it mildly. Her former husband ended up with a knife in his hip (not what she'd been aiming for) and she'd gotten a divorce and been disgraced. Her father's wish for her to marry again did not coincide with her own. If she had her way, she'd never marry again.

This was a extremely fun tale that had be smiling, laughing, and shaking my head. Alex was the ultimate playboy who knew no boundaries except that he wouldn't stick around for too long. When he met Glynis who seemed equally set on avoiding marriage, to the extent of disguising herself to look ugly, he was intrigued. When circumstances threw the two together, well as they say, sparks ignited.

Glynis is headstrong and loyal. Convinced her aunt would help prevent her from being forced to marry, she asks Alex to let her accompany him to Edinburgh. When circumstances put both of them in positions where marriage seems like their best option, they decide to wed each other. As Tearlag predicted, Alex's past will come back to haunt him throwing hurtles in their way, and the two will have to work through them to get a chance at happiness. Plus, Glynis' ex may not want her, but he sure as heck doesn't want anyone else to have her.

On the Lisarenee Romance Rating Scale, this one get a Steam rating - too hot for a fan, but you still have a handle on things. You should use extreme caution when reading a book with this rating in public. People may inquire as to why you looked flustered and flushed. Overall, this one gets 4 1/2 out of 5 roses. A very fun and entertaining read.(less)

1 like · like · see review

May 01, 2012 Tam rated it 5 of 5 stars

I really enjoy the Highland Romance genre and this is easily one of the best books of its kind yet (personal opinion, and I've read quite a number of series in this genre). In addition to a captivating and entertaining storyline, the beauty of this series comes from the fluid flow of story telling that sweeps you through the hours and also the perfect balance. I find it is well-balanced between action and romance, mystery and logic, suspense and humor.I've read some other series that were enjoya...more

like · see review

Feb 28, 2012 Stevie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: animosity-to-lovers, favorite-author, favorites, feisty-heroine, historical-scotland, kinda-steamy, super-alpha-male

4.5 all the way. This one is my absolute favorite. Loved the story, the plot, the characters and most of all Alex. The chemistry between Alex and Glynis was easy and immediate. Already attached to the four Highlanders, that affection only deepens as you see more sides to each character. The secondary characters and legends weaved in based on real history is one of my most favorite parts of Mallory's writing. That, and she really does highlanders well and of all the books of her's I have read, Al...more

like · see review

Jan 18, 2012 Shauni added it

When they were boys, Alex and his two cousins and best Friend Duncan went to have their fortunes told. Each was given a different promise. Alex, the charmer, was told to beware a woman sitting on a rock by the sea as she might be a selkie ready to take his life. The second part of his fortune was that he would someday court a pockmarked woman, one who was stout and far from comely... What a lovely promise.. The boys grew and went off to battle after years away they came home only to learn that t...more When they were boys, Alex and his two cousins and best Friend Duncan went to have their fortunes told. Each was given a different promise. Alex, the charmer, was told to beware a woman sitting on a rock by the sea as she might be a selkie ready to take his life. The second part of his fortune was that he would someday court a pockmarked woman, one who was stout and far from comely... What a lovely promise.. The boys grew and went off to battle after years away they came home only to learn that their clan had been decimated and Scotland was once again on the brink of war.

In the Sinner, Margaret Mallory’s second book of the Return of the Highlanders Series.. we find Alex, a grown man, a charmer, a rake at his very best or worst.. ready to love ‘em and leave ‘em and no way is he ready to even remotely settle down. Add to the fact that his father was a womanizing pig and his mother’s heart was broken over and over again.. No way did he believe in marriage. He had grown up in turmoil, being fought over by his parents doted on and yet on the other hand constantly being told that he was destined to stray. While Alex loved women, he was sure there was no way he would ever remain faithful to one woman, it was an impossibility, he was predestined to be unfaithful.

Glynnis was forced into marriage against her will to the Laird of a local clan. He was an arrogant, overbearing, abusive pig of a man and when he humiliated her she stabbed him, returned home and dissolved their marriage. No way was she ever going to marry again. Especially not for any purpose but her own.

**************************************************************

It was fun to watch Alex and Glynnis come together and rather interesting to see which would fall first and which would admit to it first. There were issues of Clan Loyalty, family loyalty and trust.. each had to learn how to leave the past behind and live for each other.

It’s nice to escape from PNR and return to my roots with this wonderful historical romance. Of course if you can’t have vamps, werewolves and time traveling all you need is a man in a kilt! Another great read by Ms Mallory. Can’t wait to see what happens with Duncan..

To see this review in it's entirety go to
Tea and Book
(less)

like · see review

Jan 01, 2012 Judy & Marianne from Long and Short Reviews rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical, non-erotic

Originally posted at: http://longandshortreviews.blogspot.c...

‘The oar that is close at hand, row with it” is a Gaelic proverb that serves as a rule of thumb in much of the action in The Sinner. Also the seer’s prediction of three women that bring danger, deceit, and deep desire to Alex MacDonald plus the gift he receives being brightness itself weave theirs way through this action-packed, emotionally intense tale.

Alex Ban MacDonald fights with surety, skill, and zeal. He loves a good fight. He...more Originally posted at: http://longandshortreviews.blogspot.c...

‘The oar that is close at hand, row with it” is a Gaelic proverb that serves as a rule of thumb in much of the action in The Sinner. Also the seer’s prediction of three women that bring danger, deceit, and deep desire to Alex MacDonald plus the gift he receives being brightness itself weave theirs way through this action-packed, emotionally intense tale.

Alex Ban MacDonald fights with surety, skill, and zeal. He loves a good fight. He is the same about loving the ladies (note the plural). He balks at being “leg shackled”. His father reared him to believe that it is in his genes to need many women, that like his father, one woman could never satisfy his sexual appetite. Alex saw his father’s blatant infidelity make a virtual battlefield out of marriage. His parents fought like cats and dogs, and Alex wants no part of that kind of life.

Glynis MacNail, once the wife of the cruel, abusive Magnus Clanrandad, has been humiliated and hurt enough to last a lifetime. She never wants to marry again, but her father wants her to wed to secure an alliance with another clan. Consequently, when men from the MacDonald clan show up to parley, Glynis tries to disguise her beauty. However, fate, destiny, a mischievous fairy, or some such steps in to thwart both Glynis’ and Alex’s evasive actions.

She remains steadfast in her determination to stay unwed but says to herself, “What was God thinking, allowing a man to be this handsome?” when she sees Alex. He is a “golden warrior”, and looks like a blazing Viking marauder with breathtaking green eyes. He radiates a sensual heat. He is a rogue without question, but has a sense of humor that charms and a storytelling ability that enchants.

The Sinner is replete with beautiful, expressive metaphors and imagery that awaken all the senses so the reader is pulled into the setting and propelled into the vicious fighting, the furtive planning, and the exquisite love scenes that are breathtaking.

Margaret Mallory weaves history, superstitions, the plight of women in that era, greed for money and power, and the unique culture of the Scottish Clans into the story, all of which enrich the sparkling love story of Glynis and Alex. She creates strong secondary characters with personalities that add, intrigue, joy, humor, magic, disgust, and terror to the happenings. Two of Alex’s past lovers create their share of chaos, each in her own way. However, the little girl Claire that appears in the prologue, a character that I almost forgot, changes priorities for many as she nestles her way into the hearts of most—but not all. To a few she is not wanted, creating intense scenes.

The hero and the heroine’s love shimmer and sizzles with scenes that make the heart sing and sigh with satisfaction. The Sinner is a keeper—a captivating read!

(less)

1 like · like · see review

Nov 18, 2011 April rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance-scotland

THE SINNER by Margaret Mallory is an exciting historical romance set in 1515 Scotland. It is book #2 in “The Return of the Highlanders”,but can be read as a stand alone. See “The Guardian”. “The Return of the Highlanders” is the story of four fearless highland warriors,Alex,Connor,Duncan,and Ian who return to their Highland home to claim their lands and their legacies. This is the story of Alex MacDonald,a sexy,skill warrior as well as a skilled lover who vows never to take a wife,but enter the...more

1 like · like · see review

Nov 07, 2011 Becca rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: arc-s, books-read-in-2011, highland-warriors-romance, historical, netgalley, romance

This was a great highland romance. Alex was an amazing hero and I always enjoyed reading about him. Glynis was also an amazing character she had spunk and was not easily swayed which was great. Alex and Glynis shared an instant attraction but both agreed to be friends due to the fact that they both never wanted to marry. Alex had proclaimed all his life that he never wanted to marry, after having witnessed his parents own horrendous marriage Alex never wanted to go through that. Glynis had a dis...more

1 like · like · see review

Nov 06, 2011 Mary Gramlich rated it 5 of 5 stars

THE SINNER by Margaret Mallory
Return of the Highlanders Series #2
11/1 – Grand Central Forever - Mass Market Paperback, 416 pages

What do you do with something you never thought you wanted?

Glynis MacNeil is fighting her father with every trick she knows because there is no way she is getting married again. Having driven the last husband away by doing her best to unman him will hopefully deter any future suitors her father might find.

Alex Ban MacDonald is a man that does not like to lose and makes...more THE SINNER by Margaret Mallory
Return of the Highlanders Series #2
11/1 – Grand Central Forever - Mass Market Paperback, 416 pages

What do you do with something you never thought you wanted?

Glynis MacNeil is fighting her father with every trick she knows because there is no way she is getting married again. Having driven the last husband away by doing her best to unman him will hopefully deter any future suitors her father might find.

Alex Ban MacDonald is a man that does not like to lose and makes sure that the deck is always stacked in his favor. As such, Alex has complete confidence in his bet that he is never getting married, ah those best laid plans, they have been the undoing of many a confident man.

To avoid marriage Glynis enlists Alex to take her to mother’s family that will not make her have to hurt another husband just to forge an alliance. Alex is not fond of the idea but with he sees her determination and knows that with or without him, Glynis is going to run away and at least secure her safety. He is superstitious enough to get some good karma, as Alex is going to need all the help he can get with this determined woman because the journey in front of them is long and dangerous.

Alex reminds himself to keep a check on his passion and control his feelings because Glynis is the absolute last thing he needs in his life. But her feisty nature is showing him how a sassy, determined female can be an attractor not a deterrent to even someone like Alex.

When Alex is blindsided by a former lover's announcement, he becomes aware that Glynis is pivotal in securing the safety of his new family member but convincing her of that is another event. Having his entire work turned upside down may set other men back but Alec is moving forward with Glynis and a plan. Alex just needs to convince the woman his plan makes sense.

The Sinner is another winning combination by Margaret Mallory giving readers the perfect connection of characters to story. It is always difficult to be the second book in a series but The Sinner stands with The Guardian as much as it can work on its own due to the brilliance of Ms. Mallory for ability to write such great books!(less)

1 like · like · see review

Dec 11, 2012 Patacaisse rated it 5 of 5 stars

J’avais adoré le premier tome de cette série et j’avais hâte de retrouver ces quatre amis. Dans ce tome, c’est Alex qui est le héros. Alex, le beau gosse, le charmeur qui a plus de femmes à ses pieds qu’il lui en faut et qui rencontre comme seul problème le fait de vouloir les quitter sans que ça fasse des histoires. Son cousin, Duncan, l’envoie chez les MacNeil pour essayer de savoir ce qui se passe chez les rebelles.
Il rencontre la fille aînée de MacNeil, Glynis qui est fermement décidée à ne...more

like · see review

Feb 04, 2012 Suzanne the Mighty ~Satin Seductress~ rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romance, highlander-hotness, lover-the-cover, rake-man-whore

3.5 starts

Alexander MacDonald has sworn he will never marry and certainly never fall in love; after a childhood spent in a house where his parent hate eachother, he vows he will never do the same. However, that doesn't stop him from enjoying a woman, as long as she wants no more then a night, and he is well known for his philandering ways. The beautiful Glynis MacNeil has also sworn never to marry again, her first husband was a brute who humiliated her and she would never go through that again;...more 3.5 starts

Alexander MacDonald has sworn he will never marry and certainly never fall in love; after a childhood spent in a house where his parent hate eachother, he vows he will never do the same. However, that doesn't stop him from enjoying a woman, as long as she wants no more then a night, and he is well known for his philandering ways. The beautiful Glynis MacNeil has also sworn never to marry again, her first husband was a brute who humiliated her and she would never go through that again; no matter what her father says. Both their resolves are tested as they are thrown together and find themselves drawn to eachother and they start considering the unthinkable. Marriage.

This is my first Margaret Mallory book and although I wasn't blown away by it I did really enjoy it. Especially the parts with Alex....nekkid.... how can I resist a hot Highland warrior?

This was essentially a reformed rake story, only Highlander style, and I enjoyed reading as the very stubborn main characters, Alex and Glynnis, fell in love. They were both very likable characters, Alex was charming and gallant and although he was a womanizer he wasn't as intense and complicated as rakes can often be potrayed, and Glynnis was strong minded and beautiful. You could feel the connection between them and see how it grew through the book as although they were instantly attracted to eachother, it was great to see it grow into a frienship and deepened in to love.

This book also had a little action and although there wasn't really much of a plot that wasn't directly about the romance, it had enough adventure in it to appease my bloodlust. You could also tell it was a well researched book, although I am definitely no expert on Scottish history, there was a depth about the settings and characters surrounding the main couple as well as mentions of the political climate of the time as to give it the air of authenticity.

The reason this gets 3.5 stars and not 4 or 5 is that although I did like it, I found it a little slow to start and it took me a good 100 pages to get into it. Also, although I liked the characters and the romance which was sweet and sexy, it also wasn't something extrodinairy or original. But it was well written and fun to read, and I will be reading more of Margaret Mallory's book in the future.(less)

3 likes · like · see review

Oct 24, 2011 Jen (Red Hot Books) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: highlander, arcs

Alex MacDonald loves the ladies. And why shouldn't he? He fights hard and plays hard too. He never wants to marry; he doesn't believe any woman could ever hold his heart... until he meets Glynis.

Though most Highland women want a husband, one marriage was more than enough for Glynis. Her first husband was a nightmare. He treated her cruelly and openly kept mistresses. When she could take it no more, Glynis left him with a dirk in his leg and vowed never to wed again. But her father has other idea...more

6 likes · like · see review

Apr 27, 2012 Lorraine rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I am loving this series. I think I liked this book more than the first. The different views on historical characters make the books feel fresh and unique. The hero and heroine I find very appealing and their journey one I did not want to end.

Alex Ban MacDonald is cousin to the newly elected Chief of his clan. He is a close adviser to his Chief. He is also a lady’s man with no desire or inclination to ever get married. He enjoys a lady for a while and moves on never getting attached. His own pare...more I am loving this series. I think I liked this book more than the first. The different views on historical characters make the books feel fresh and unique. The hero and heroine I find very appealing and their journey one I did not want to end.

Alex Ban MacDonald is cousin to the newly elected Chief of his clan. He is a close adviser to his Chief. He is also a lady’s man with no desire or inclination to ever get married. He enjoys a lady for a while and moves on never getting attached. His own parents failed marriage and continued animosity towards each other is enough to put any sane highlander off marriage for good. But when his Chief, who has no wife or children of his own, and no other siblings save his sister who was married off to an Irish man years ago, ask him to consider a list of women to marry to strengthen alliances with neighboring clans. Alex is hard press to give in.

Glynis MacNeil is the oldest daughter to the Chieftain of the MacNeil Clan. Having already failed at her trial marriage that ended with her sticking a dirk in her would be faithless husband hip and believing she is barren. Glynis is content to never try marriage again. But her father has other plans for her, he wants to see her married to strengthen his clans alliances and see her with a family of her own.

While on a journey for his chief to satisfy neighboring clans with different views and the rebellion. Alex meets Glynis at the McNeil stronghold. He finds her tactics for dissuading possible suitors intriguing, and finds himself drawn to her. He is relieved to find her feelings on marriage mirror his own and they form a mutual friendship. But upon Glynis discovering her father plans to marry her off again, Glynis insist that Alex take her with him on this continued journey to Edinburgh and deliver her to her deceased mothers family to save her from her fate. Alex, who must go to Edinburgh to answer the call of the regent in place of his new Chief, for fear their plan is to hold the Chief prisoner until he swears allegiance to the crown, must now travel with Glynis.

Their journey brings many surprises and dangers, the most being their growing affection for each other. Their discovery and their journey brings them many rewards, but the soon realize they more you have, the more you have to lose. Can they trust themselves and their hearts to survive all they must face together.

I look forward to the next book in this series. Duncan can be a gentle giant, I can not wait to see what he does when he is sent to help the only woman he ever loved.
(less)

like · see review

Nov 08, 2011 Miranda rated it 4 of 5 stars

The Sinner was a great continuation to where things left off in the Guardian. Alexander Ban Macdonald was a phenomenal, multi-dimensional side character; who's warmth, rapscallion reputation, and scandalous behavior stole my heart in the first installment to this series.

I came into this novel, expecting that Alex would be a strong male protagonist in his own story. I looked forward to discovering the hidden facets to this jokester, and was not left disappointed. The danger, and intelligence lur...more The Sinner was a great continuation to where things left off in the Guardian. Alexander Ban Macdonald was a phenomenal, multi-dimensional side character; who's warmth, rapscallion reputation, and scandalous behavior stole my heart in the first installment to this series.

I came into this novel, expecting that Alex would be a strong male protagonist in his own story. I looked forward to discovering the hidden facets to this jokester, and was not left disappointed. The danger, and intelligence lurking beneath the polished veneer of Alexander's humor, was quite compelling to witness. I found the opening scene with which our hero and heroine meet incredibly original, and their banter had me grinning from ear to ear. Glynis and Alex share the commonality of wishing to avoid marriage, both for very valid, yet different reasons. I found the author's use of this platform very clever, and she contructed the relationship of these two vibrant personalities brilliantly.

More than half way through this novel, my appreciation of this journey ran so deep, I knew I would be rating this book a full 5 stars...but alas, the repeated foreshadowing of Glynis's inability to forgive--if ever Alex's eye roamed--came into play. The interwoven sub plot which caused this misunderstanding was well done, and emotionally charged, yet I was put off with the length with which the author carried out this misunderstanding. While Glynis's doubt was to be understood, considering Alex's history with women...I felt that the nature of the situation with which this was caused, required a more profound chain reaction, than what we readers received in Glynis's very predictible judgment delivered upon Alex.

Regardless of this sole set back in the momentum, the climax was filled with action, the ending was utterly thrilling, and the book left me well satisfied overall. I anxiously await book 3 of the Return of the Highlanders, The Warrior, due out in 2012. My beloved, solemn, broken hearted Duncan...I look greatly foward to the coming of his Happily ever after.

(less)

1 like · like · see review

Oct 29, 2011 Heather Book Savvy Babe rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: romance, netgalley, historical-romance, review-on-blog

The Return of the Highlanders series by Margaret Mallory is an exciting and engaging series about 4 Highland warriors who return home from their adventure and travels to take care of their clan and defeat their enemies. Each of the 4 warriors have their own strengths and faults, but they are all fiercely loyal and dedicated to their clan. The Sinner is Alex's book, his story about finding love and his place in the world, his home.

Alex comes from an unpleasant home life, his parents argued consta...more The Return of the Highlanders series by Margaret Mallory is an exciting and engaging series about 4 Highland warriors who return home from their adventure and travels to take care of their clan and defeat their enemies. Each of the 4 warriors have their own strengths and faults, but they are all fiercely loyal and dedicated to their clan. The Sinner is Alex's book, his story about finding love and his place in the world, his home.

Alex comes from an unpleasant home life, his parents argued constantly and his father was always unfaithful to his wife. Alex had always grown up enjoying the company of women, and had vowed never to get trapped in marriage. However, when tensions between the clans run high, Connor (Alex's friend and chieftain) asks Alex to marry to form an alliance for the good of the clan. Glynis is a disgraced woman, she left her cheating, horrible husband and vowed never to marry again. However, as the oldest daughter of her clan's chieftain, marriage may be inevitable. Alex and Glynis are attracted to each other, but their relationship might never work if they can't overcome their distaste for marriage and Alex's wondering ways.

Alex is a very likable character, he has a bright personality, he is a fierce warrior, and he is loyal to his clan and his friends. Unfortunately, he is not loyal to women. He likes to love them and leave them, and keep women at a distance. However, as he gets to know Glynis, he slowly begins to change and he grows into an excellent hero. Glynis is a strong woman, she won't put up with bad treatment, she will defend herself when necessary, and she is very caring to everyone except for wandering men. She is very hesitant towards Alex, with good reason, but she is very stubborn, which is not always an asset.

I really enjoyed reading Alex and Glynis's story. They both grow and they both have unexpected soft-sides to temper their highlander fierceness. From the minute I began reading The Sinner, I was absorbed in the story. Margaret Mallory manages to incorporate historical figures and events into her books that give the books that little something more. The story fits the time period, and while reading it is easy to be transported back in time and place and vicariously experience the world of the Highlanders. The story flows along very nicely, and it is a fairly quick read.

After reading both Ian (book 1, the Guardian) and Alex's stories, I am only more interested in reading the future books. Connor and Duncan are the characters left. I am very curious about Connor's story, as he is the Chieftain of the clan and there is much responsibility on his shoulders. As for Duncan, he is a bit of a mystery, and finding out who is truly is promises to be a very good story as well.

Historical Romance readers, if you are looking for a good Highlander novel or series, I highly recommend giving this Return of the Highlanders series a try. Highlander fans, you can't go wrong with this series filled with loyal warriors, intrigue, and romance.

This book was provided for review by NetGalley(less)

3 likes · like · see review

Oct 16, 2011 Jaime rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: fresh-fiction-reads, 2011-read

Review from www.FreshFiction.com

The MacDonald cousins have found countless battles watching each other's backs. Connor MacDonald is chieftain and must battle on the political front to protect his people from the civil unrest that surrounds their lands. Political alliances are needed and the easiest way to develop one is through marriage and the Chieftain’s cousins are not in favor to being placed on the chopping block.

Alex MacDonald is known for two things. His skill in a battle and talent in b...more Review from www.FreshFiction.com

The MacDonald cousins have found countless battles watching each other's backs. Connor MacDonald is chieftain and must battle on the political front to protect his people from the civil unrest that surrounds their lands. Political alliances are needed and the easiest way to develop one is through marriage and the Chieftain’s cousins are not in favor to being placed on the chopping block.

Alex MacDonald is known for two things. His skill in a battle and talent in bedroom. He laughs off his Chieftain cousin’s attempts of locking him in a marriage with another chieftain’s daughter. All who know him know that he never wants to get married. He saw what the oath did to his parents. His world is turned upside down when he meets Glynis, the eldest daughter of the Maclean chieftain. Desire over powers his control driving him to make improper advances towards the beautiful lady.

Glynis Maclean was married off to a brutal man at the benefit of her clan. She removed herself from the vicious marriage and made sure no man would ever want to marry her again. Or so she thought. When you are known as one of the most beautiful well breed ladies in Scotland, assault on a former husband must not be a strong deterrent to future suitors. Her father has placed her on the auction block once again, trying to marry her to anyone who she will consent too. Drastic situations lead to drastic measures and blackmailing Alex MacDonald to remove you from the castle can be considered most drastic.

The Sinner was a wonderful novel lead by two powerful personalities who are vocal about that they want out of life. Neither want to marry and will do anything in their power to keep from those around them from forcing the life step upon them. The way the characters grew to enjoy each others company in the mist of an exciting adventure made this an enjoyable read. The side characters were also a treat. You fall in love with the cousins and make the reader want to read their stories as soon as possible. The banter between them is humorous and entertaining. The action drives the reader to continue reading until resolution. The Sinner is an exciting, turbulent read from beginning to end. I will be waiting impatiently for the next installment of this story. (less)

1 like · like · see review

Jun 25, 2012 Ellen W-S rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: netgalley, must-review

The Sinner by Margaret Mallory, the second installment of the Return of the Highlanders series, centers on Alex, one of the 4 MacDonald men who protect their clan's interests, land and safety. Alex is a ladies man and has vehemently sworn off marrying despite the alliances that need to made for the clan. Having been raised by parents who were constantly at each others' throat, he vows that nothing good can come from marriage. Along comes Glynis, daughter of the McNeil chieftain, is newly separat...more

like · see review

Mar 20, 2012 Bodea rated it 3 of 5 stars

I'm really not down with the highlander craze, but I enjoyed this book. I didn't read book one. I was just browsing and this cover caught my attention so I checked it out. I wasn't sure if I was going to like it or not because I tend to avoid these kind of books. I'm happy to say that Mallory delivers a solid story here.

The plot is pretty well put together. There's a lot of action, romance, and intrigue. I like the setting and the writing paints a vivid picture. I think this story's strength li...more

like · see review

Sep 11, 2012 Lisa rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

j'appréhendais un peu la lecture de ce tome 2, car le tome 1 m'avait laissé un sentiment mitigé . Mais celui ci relatant l'histoire d'Alex , que l'on découvre dans le 1er tome, je ne pouvais pas passer à côté . Et j'ai adoré ! La lecture est très plaisante, l'aventure, l'humour, l'amour et la passion sont au rendez vous.
Glynis n'a d'autre choix que de devoir se remarier en raison de l'échec monumental de son premier mariage, mais cette idée ne lui plait pas du tout. Comme on dit "chat échaudé cr...more j'appréhendais un peu la lecture de ce tome 2, car le tome 1 m'avait laissé un sentiment mitigé . Mais celui ci relatant l'histoire d'Alex , que l'on découvre dans le 1er tome, je ne pouvais pas passer à côté . Et j'ai adoré ! La lecture est très plaisante, l'aventure, l'humour, l'amour et la passion sont au rendez vous.
Glynis n'a d'autre choix que de devoir se remarier en raison de l'échec monumental de son premier mariage, mais cette idée ne lui plait pas du tout. Comme on dit "chat échaudé craint l'eau froide"! C'est sans compter l'arrivée d'Alex Macdonald encore plus allergique au mot "mariage". Mais ces 2 là vont se rapprocher progressivement d'abord pour fuir les perspectives de mariages qui s'imposent à Glynis et ensuite part l'attirance réciproque qu'ils ne peuvent nier ni l'un ni l'autre.
Glynis est une jeune fille, rebelle, forte, tétue et combative mais également meurtrie dans sa chair, douce et entière.
Connaissant la réputation de coureur de jupons d'Alex elle va tout faire pour combattre ses sentiments pour ne pas souffrir une nouvelle fois.
Alex lui c'est le séducteur de la bande. Fidèle jusqu'à la mort pour son chef Connor et ses compars Ian et Duncan , il n'a aucun sens de l' honneur pourtant lorsqu'il s'agit des femmes. Beau à se damner , les femmes lui tombent dans les bras sans aucuns efforts, alors lorsque la jeune et belle Glynis le repousse et lui demande son aide il est déstabilisé .
Mais comme tout héros au caractère de Dom Juan , Alex a également une faille qui va démolir toutes les idées qu'il a sur l'amour et le mariage. Et bien des surprises vont se présenter à lui, auxquelles ils ne s'attendait pas.
Le rythme de l'histoire est très enlevé. Pas de temps mort, il se passe beaucoup de choses et c'est un régal de suivre leurs aventures.
Tous les ingrédients d'une belle romance historique sont là : l'aventure, le complot, la trahison, la jalousie, mais aussi la tendresse, l'honneur, l'amour et la passion. Glynis et Alex remplissent très bien leur rôle de héros et j'ai été émue par leur histoire.
J'espère que les tomes suivants sur Connor et Duncan seront à la hauteur de celui ci(less)

1 like · like · see review

Nov 28, 2011 Ellie rated it 4 of 5 stars

The Sinner, Return of the Highlanders #2, by Margaret Mallory
Grade: B

“Glynis’s grey eyes searched his, as if she were trying to see into the heart of a sinner. But this sinner’s heart was buried far too deep for her to find it.”

Glynis MacNeil has already survived one horrible marriage and she refuses to let her father sell her off into another, that is until she meets the handsome rouge Alex MacDonald. Alex helps Glynis escape to her mother’s family in Edinburgh where she is once again forced to...more The Sinner, Return of the Highlanders #2, by Margaret Mallory
Grade: B

“Glynis’s grey eyes searched his, as if she were trying to see into the heart of a sinner. But this sinner’s heart was buried far too deep for her to find it.”

Glynis MacNeil has already survived one horrible marriage and she refuses to let her father sell her off into another, that is until she meets the handsome rouge Alex MacDonald. Alex helps Glynis escape to her mother’s family in Edinburgh where she is once again forced to marry. When Alex finds out he has a daughter from an affair five years earlier, he propositions Glynis to marry him and help him raise his daughter but Glynis has a few stipulations of her own that require Alex to be faithful to her always but with his past this might be impossible.

Alex MacDonald has always had it easy with woman that is until he meets the beautiful, grey eyed Glynis MacNeil. Glynis is everything Alex has never known he wanted and he finds himself willing to give up all woman forever to have by his side and help him raise his daughter. Alex soon finds it much harder to shed his former reputation and earn his new wife’s trust and simple mistakes could cost him everything he’s fought so hard for.
The Sinner is the great second addition to Margaret Mallory’s Return of the Highlanders series. I am a very big fan of the first book The Guardian and this books picks up right were we left off. There is a lot going on in this book besides love and romance and a lot of inter clan fighting, rebellion and the chance of war. All of this combined makes for a very fun but action packed book with lots of adventure, suspense and romance.

Alex is introduced in the first book, The Guardian, and he was a favorite of mine because he is very funny and provided almost all of the humor. In his own book he his a little more subdued and serious with the discovery of his daughter Sorcha. I loved reading about Alex and his daughter and she brought out a wonderful side to him that he never showed before. I felt that Alex grew and matured lot in this book and finally found a strong woman that could get him to stop his womanizing ways.

I loved everything about Glynis MacNeil. She is a very strong woman who refuses to be bullied by the men in her life. I loved that she didn’t fold right away for Alex and she made sure that he knew it was all or nothing with her. She might be called stubborn by some but I found her to be a woman who refused to settle for anything less then she deserved and demanded full trust from her husband. I really hope the next heroines in this series can live up to Glynis.

I am a very, very big fan of highlanders and this is one of my favorite series about them. Mrs. Mallory does a great job of making you feel like you’re right in the highlands and her characters are always wonderful. I recommend reading the first book before picking up this one or you will be confused but both are fun, fast reads that I’m sure everyone will love.(less)

1 like · like · see review

Jan 13, 2013 Christine rated it 4 of 5 stars

4.5 stars. So, finding this book in my to read pile was interesting. I had just tried another historical romance and discarded it in disgust after 20 pages. I looked at the cover of this book, and thought it had to be better because the guy on the front was kind of hot!

I don't read a lot of historical books but I gave this one a shot, and was very happy that I did. I found the characters and story very interesting and really enjoyed the writing. It's a bit refreshing reading a story that contin...more

like · see review

Nov 22, 2011 Gaby rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance, summer-reading

While Highland Hero mixes high politics and the struggle for the Scottish crown, The Sinner focuses on the two romantic leads.

Alex is forced to ally himself with a powerful family to protect his clan. Glynis's family is pressuring her to do the same. But Glynis is young and high spirited and determined to marry for love. So, she plays tricks to discourage her suitors, tries her best to avoid Alex.

Alex is attracted to Glynis's spirit, humor and beauty. It is clear from the start that Alex and Gl...more

1 like · like · see review

Oct 26, 2011 Kat ~ Forever Book Lover ♥ rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, highlander, romance

Review courtesy of netgalley. I received an free ARC in exchange for a honest review.

For a complete review go to http://foreverbklover.blogspot.com

In order to solidify his clan, Connor asked his cousin Alex to enter into a marriage alliance with a neighboring clan. Alex would do anything Connor asks of him, but marriage, he had the wrong guy.

Meet our heroine:
The last thing on Glynis mind is to marry again. Her first marriage ended after just a few months, she had enough of her abusive husband's...more

1 like · like · see review

May 20, 2012 Tracy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, netgalley, historical-romance

A Grand Highland Romp
There is only one thing that Alexander Bàn MacDonald does with more frequency, skill, and enthusiasm than swiving the lasses, and that's fighting. Though it's a narrow margin. Now that the skilled fighter is back in the Highlands, his cousin Connor settling in as clan chieftan, it is up to Alex and his best friend Duncan to aid their friend in securing alliances while all of Scotland rumbles with the discord between Crown and rebellion.

Paying favor to the neighboring MacNeil...more

like · see review

Nov 03, 2012 Laura Kaye rated it 5 of 5 stars

Alex Ban MacDonald owns me!!! I loved, loved, loved this book! He was the epitome of a sexy, virile, alpha Scottish warrior, and the heroine Glynis was strong and assertive--a great match for Alex. The first half of the book was hot and playful. The second half of the book was filled with more conflict and tension--both between Alex and Glynis, and between warring clans. I was hooked the whole time. My only nitpick was that I thought Glynis should've apologized more for what turned out to be her...more

2 likes · like · see review

Mar 29, 2013 Galleane rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Le verdict final : j'ai passé une nouvelle fois un sacré fichtrement bon moment. Certes les bémols sont plus nombreux, pour une suite qui plus est après un tome 1 que j'ai adoré, la comparaison est venue naturellement. Mais tant que ça fonctionne toujours aussi bien, ça me va. L'auteur par le biais de ses personnages amène de nouvelles situations parfois marrantes, parfois plaisantes mais aussi parfois agaçantes. Pourtant me voilà fan de cette série et j'ai hâte surtout de voir l'histoire de Con...more

like · see review

Dec 08, 2011 Dabney rated it 3 of 5 stars

Alex MacDonald, the Scots hero of Margaret Mallory’s The Sinner, has every attribute one could dream up for the perfect alpha male hero. He’s a “blindingly handsome” golden haired sex god with a killer wit and a deadly claymore. He can easily defeat, singlehandedly, groups of ferocious warriors and, still dripping his enemies’ blood, kiss a chieftain’s gorgeous daughter witless. He’s intensely loyal, skilled with children, and has a perfect “arse.” His only blemish: a profound resistance to matr...more Alex MacDonald, the Scots hero of Margaret Mallory’s The Sinner, has every attribute one could dream up for the perfect alpha male hero. He’s a “blindingly handsome” golden haired sex god with a killer wit and a deadly claymore. He can easily defeat, singlehandedly, groups of ferocious warriors and, still dripping his enemies’ blood, kiss a chieftain’s gorgeous daughter witless. He’s intensely loyal, skilled with children, and has a perfect “arse.” His only blemish: a profound resistance to matrimony born from years of watching his parents’ carriage-wreck of a marriage.

This aversion to matrimony is shared by the novel’s heroine, Glynnis MacNeil. Glynnis has already been married once to a slopsucker of a man whom she stabbed in the thigh — she missed — then deserted. (Under Highland law, a spouse has the right to leave within the first year of the marriage for any reason.) Unfortunately for Glynnis, neither her father, the Chieftain of the MacNeil clan, nor her ex-husband is pleased with her response to her first round of nuptial non-bliss. Her derelict husband Magnus would like to kill her — or just settle for letting his men rape her repeatedly — and her father adamantly insists she marry again.

The Sinner is the second book in Ms. Mallory’s series Return of the Highlanders and, like the first, The Guardian, much of the plot revolves around the MacDonald Clan and its efforts to preserve itself amidst the political turmoil of early 1500’s Highlands Scotland. Alex and his friends Duncan and Ian (the hero of The Guardian) all are sworn to serve their cousin Connor, the head of the MacDonald clan. Alex would do anything for Connor except wed a lass from another clan in order to form a political alliance. Given that Alex won’t do the one thing Connor really needs him to do, Connor consigns Alex another charge. Alex is to travel to Edinburgh to meet with Sabine, a French noblewoman who was once Alex’s lover. Sabine has written Alex with the message that she has a special gift for him. Alex and Connor believe the mysterious gift may have something to do with the rebellion fomented by many clans from the Western Isles against the Scottish Crown. The MacDonald Clan is walking a fine line by supporting neither the rebellion nor the Crown. Connor and Alex wonder if Sabine — or their mutual French friend D’Arcy - has information for them regarding the views of the current regent, the Duke of Albany, on the stance the MacDonald Clan has taken.

Alex and Duncan head to Edinburgh by way of Duart Castle on the island of Mull, the seat of the Maclean clan, where many of the leaders of the rebellious clans are meeting. (I remain in the dark about why the two went there — Alex asks Duncan why they’re making this detour and Duncan just whistles a sad song.) Glynnis is there with her father whom she is trying to convince not to join the rebellion or force her to marry one of the chieftains there. Magnus is there too and, when he attacks Glynnis, Alex fights him almost to the death — Alex of course wins — while Glynnis watches and tries not to faint with desire. Later that day, after accidentally seeing Alex in all his astonishingly splendid naked male glory, Glynnis asks Alex to meet her behind the kitchens at midnight where she asks if he’ll take her to Edinburgh. She’s decided to run away from her match-making father and move in with her dead mother’s family whom she’s never met. (I’m sure this has nothing to do with wishing to see more of Alex’s perfect arse.) When Alex tells her no, she threatens to tell Shaggy Maclean, the chieftain of Duart, she saw Alex swiving Catherine, Shaggy’s routinely unfaithful wife. Alex, who this time had turned down Catherine’s offer of afternoon delight, reluctantly agrees to take Glynnis with him.

to read the rest of my review, go to All About Romance:

http://www.likesbooks.com/cgi-bin/boo...(less)

like · see review

title link	preview: The Sinner
avg rating	preview: The Sinner Goodreads rating: 4.22 (602 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11261198-the-sinner?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1328333510l/11261198.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11261198-the-sinner?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]The Sinner by Margaret Mallory[/url]

The Sinner (Return of the Highlanders #2)

Friend Reviews

Lists with This Book

Community Reviews

new topic
Discuss This Book

combine
Other Editions (6)

Genres

Readers also enjoyed similar books

About Margaret Mallory

Books by Margaret Mallory

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website

Trivia About The Sinner