X Marks the Scot (Bad Boys of the Highlands, #2) by Victoria Roberts

Jun 01, 2013 Arlena rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 4-stars, a-good-book, adult-read, ebooks, historical, my-reviews, part-of-series, twist-and-turns

By: Victoria Roberts
Published By: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Book Blog For: GMTA
Series: Bad Boys of the Highlands #2
Review:

"X Marks the Scot" by Victoria Roberts was a good 'Scottish Medieval historical romance and is the second in this series: 'Bad boys of the Highlands #2. This was a fast paced read and will kept you hooked all the way through the novel. The plot coming from both point of views was quite intriguing and I found all of the charac...more

1 like · like · see review

May 04, 2013 Sandy rated it 4 of 5 stars

X MARKS THE SCOT is the second storyline (February 2013 release) in Victoria Roberts’s Bad Boys of the Highland series.

At the end of Temptation in a Kilt, the Laird MacGregor had killed the “Bloody Campbell” for abducting and threatening his wife, child and extended family. But the fact that Campbell’s half-sister is now without protection and a guardian, the MacGregor clan must make arrangements to escort the woman to King James’ court until the time comes when James decides what will be done...more X MARKS THE SCOT is the second storyline (February 2013 release) in Victoria Roberts’s Bad Boys of the Highland series.

At the end of Temptation in a Kilt, the Laird MacGregor had killed the “Bloody Campbell” for abducting and threatening his wife, child and extended family. But the fact that Campbell’s half-sister is now without protection and a guardian, the MacGregor clan must make arrangements to escort the woman to King James’ court until the time comes when James decides what will be done with Lady Liadain Campbell. And it is Declan MacGregor who will volunteer to be the traveling companion and guardian to the beautiful Liadain. Until the King choses a suitor, Declan finds himself reluctantly attracted to the heir to the Campbell Castle, but that still does not stop his roguish ways.

Declan MacGregor has always been the family bad boy. Known as the third son, his prospects in life left little with regard to the MacGregor clan and its’ holdings. Bedding down any available female and partaking in heavy drinking and ‘wenching’ it was only a matter of time before Declan would find himself in trouble once again. But Declan’s skill with a bow and arrow, would win him the King James’s archery competition and the prize was the Campbell Castle and wedded bliss with the Lady Liadain. Although a tepid friendship had slowly developed, a forced marriage was something neither one had considered. But to their surprise, someone from Laidain’s past would be the instigator behind the King’s declaration, and although on the surface it looks like betrayal and revenge, Declan will soon discover that Liadain is risking her life the longer she stays at King james’s court.

Meanwhile, King James’s enemies were devising a plan to remove the monarch ‘permanently’ from the throne and what better way to frame Declan MacGregor than to use his prowess with a bow to send King James to an early grave. But Liadain will discover a secret at Campbell Castle that could either win Declan his freedom or kill them all.

The relationship between Declan and Liadain is slow to build. At the end of Temptation in a Kilt, Declan had already attempted to slit Liadain’s throat when he was under the mistaken belief she was partly responsible for the abduction of his nephew and sisters in law. And Declan’s penchant for hurting Liadain continues, when in a drunken stupor he mistakes her for an intruder in his own bedroom. Declan’s lack of respect for his new wife becomes rather apparent when he all but calls her a whore because of her past and the local wenches continue to avail themselves to Declan for services of the sexual kind. Liadain is a strong woman who is not willing to go down without a fight and when her husband is imprisoned for treason, it will be Liadain who embarks on a mission to clear her husband’s name knowing that the man may never accord her the love and respect in reverse.

I adore Victoria Roberts’s Bad Boys of the Highland series. I found myself emotionally drawn to the characters as well as their imperfections and personality quirks. Declan believes himself to be without the support of his family and clan, and will go about working towards a self-fulfilling prophecy of the useless son with his disruptive behavior and wenching ways. The women, each with their own failings and insecurities, are otherwise strong and supportive of the men who have promised to love and protect with their lives. In the end, it will be the women who have control of their men’s hearts and souls. Victoria Roberts writes amazing story of love and revenge, betrayal and hurt.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

see all of my reviews at : thereadingcafe.com(less)

like · see review

Mar 25, 2013 Julie rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: highland-heroes, historical-romance, historical-scotland, medieval-romance

After buying this Victoria Roberts romance based off the beautiful rogue on the cover and the quick excerpt on the back, I was rather disappointed from the story itself. The romance just doesn't live up to the "heat" the cover illustration puts off. The developing relationship between the hero and heroine was never able transmit the sexual/emotional desire and passion the writer attempted to portray to the reader. There was just very little, if any, sexual tension produced. Although there was gr...more

1 like · like · see review

Mar 20, 2013 Sharon Tyler rated it 4 of 5 stars

X Marks the Scot by Victoria Roberts is a historical romance currently scheduled for release on February 5 2013. This highland romance is the follow up to Temptation in a Kilt, but is still a solid read to those that might not have read the prior book. In X Marks the Scot we met Declan MacGregor, a classic and not unexpected highland rouge. He has some serious skills with a bow and arrow, as well as with the ladies. Although, he seems to have trouble getting himself out of the connections he for...more X Marks the Scot by Victoria Roberts is a historical romance currently scheduled for release on February 5 2013. This highland romance is the follow up to Temptation in a Kilt, but is still a solid read to those that might not have read the prior book. In X Marks the Scot we met Declan MacGregor, a classic and not unexpected highland rouge. He has some serious skills with a bow and arrow, as well as with the ladies. Although, he seems to have trouble getting himself out of the connections he forges with the willing ladies. Lady Liadain Campbell is in Declan's care, an responsibility he takes seriously even though she is the sister to his greatest enemy, who just happens to be recently deceased. Liadain is nothing like the lasses Declan knows, she does not want his protection or his company, she just wants to be left alone and to return to her home. She is used to having freedom, and the English court is a place no one is fully free. Plots and whispered rumors arise, binding the pair together in a way neither anticipated. Now they need to either trust each other and become lost in the danger that surrounds them.

X Marks the Scot is a well researched and fun historical romance. There are recognizable names and moments in history tied to the deceptions and plotting that surround Declan and Liadain, which I appreciated. I really enjoyed the characters. While Declan was fairly predictable, a handsome lady's man bound by duty and honor for the most part, he also had a couple really cute moments when Liadain had to extract him from romantic difficulties of his own making. I absolutely loved Liadain, she was raised in a home with very little love, but plenty of time for her to understand herself and her skills. She is confident in her skills and intelligence and is never left doubting her own worth, I found that to be a nice change from the standard fair of women doubting their looks and own minds when facing obstacles on the romantic front. I also like that the pair had a friendship of sorts, and did not fall into bed without having figured out some of their issues.

Readers that worry about this being the second book in the Bad Boys of the Highlands series will be relieved on several fronts. If you have not read Temptation in a Kilt, do not worry. The only thing you will be missing in this read is a feeling of dread when some secondary characters come into play, and the full story behind how Liadain's bother died and Declan gained a sister in law. Although, the short version is given in the context of X Marks the Scot, so you will understand the undercurrents those moments cause here. Readers that did pick up Temptation in a Kilt and felt it was a little lacking, have no fear! Roberts is growing as a writer, and I found myself caring about and liking the characters more in the second book than in the first. I look forward to seeing if the trend continues with her third book To Wed a Wicked Highlander. If the trend continues, she will soon be on my must read list for fans of heroes in kilts.

I recommend X Marks the Scot to readers that enjoyed Temptation in a Kilt, or liked it but thought it could have been more, because this second novel is even better. I look forward to Roberts' continued story and when this current group of characters will head next. I have high hopes for this author!(less)

like · see review

Feb 25, 2013 Judy & Marianne from Long and Short Reviews rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical, non-erotic

Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.com/bo...

The strength and love of a good woman hold firm to save a rogue from himself and from false accusations.

Both Liadain Campbell and Declan MacGregor are like fish out of water at King James’ Court. They long for their Highlands far from the court intrigues, gossip, vindictiveness, and chicanery.

Liadain, the sister of the dead seventh earl of Argyll, Archie (The Bloody) Campbell, is a healer and had avoided the attention of brother as mu...more Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.com/bo...

The strength and love of a good woman hold firm to save a rogue from himself and from false accusations.

Both Liadain Campbell and Declan MacGregor are like fish out of water at King James’ Court. They long for their Highlands far from the court intrigues, gossip, vindictiveness, and chicanery.

Liadain, the sister of the dead seventh earl of Argyll, Archie (The Bloody) Campbell, is a healer and had avoided the attention of brother as much as possible. She’d lived a quiet, useful life healing the villagers and whoever needed her care. While Liadain is a raven-haired, green-eyed beauty who is kind and delicate, she is not a pushover if crossed. Her tongue is sharp when she is riled but her humor makes her eyes sparkle when sparring with Declan in a easy give-and-take way. They have a unique friendship.

Declan MacGregor, the third son, has tried the patience of his family since the death of his father. Drink and women are his main interests. His Laird, his older brother Ciaran, sends him to escort their dead enemy’s sister to court. Declan feels he must stay to protect the naïve Liadain from the machinations that abound at court. He tries to do the right thing but doesn’t always succeed. Also, he does not realize there is an evil web being woven around him that could prove deadly.

Some of the secondary characters with ties back to The Bloody Campbell are devious and cunning antagonists. Even the disgusting Dunnehl and Caroline Armstrong that you may have met in a previous book, show up. Moreover, they have allies that add to the danger that threatens Declan.

Other secondary characters like Rosalia and Aisling, wives of Ciaran and Aiden MacGregor add humor, wisdom, and unswerving loyalty to the hero and heroine. The intrepid little boy John brings a special type of loyalty to the story.

Victoria Roberts blends in just enough seventeenth-century English history to set the reader firmly in the time and place but doesn’t overdo it. She uses it to augment the development of the characters making them vibrant and compelling. As the plot unfolds, her characters seem to come alive.

If you have read her previous books about the MacGregor clan, you will recognize some of the characters. It is captivating to catch up with how their lives are progressing. But most enchanting is getting to share an adventure with the irascible Declan and the determined Liadain as they mature and come into their own through emotional upheavals, near-death experiences, and an awakening of love that revs up the heart rate and heats the blood—love scenes sizzle.

Like the previous books in this series, X Marks the Scot is a keeper.(less)

like · see review

Feb 11, 2013 Romancing the Book rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: highlanders, historical, romance

posted on Romnacing the Books blog
reviewed by Robin
from Netgalley

As a big fan of Highland stories, I jumped at the chance to read this one. You can never read too many. But, as it seems to happen at times sometimes you choose a book by the picture, title or even the name of the author thinking this is going to be great and although you tried to find the greatness it just didn’t capture your heart like you were hoping. It was a good story, but nothing special that stood out.

In X Marks the Scot, w...more

like · see review

Jan 26, 2013 Becky Mrs Condit Reads Books rated it 5 of 5 stars

5 stars and a Recommended Book!

While I loved the plot, I loved even more the characters. For as different as Declan and Liadain are they are perfect together. They would be getting along famously one moment and then the next at odds. They are both attracted to each other but Declan can’t get over her being a Campbell. Throughout the novel they would each say things that were really innocuous but to the other it would hit a raw nerve. It seriously made my heart ache in parts because you could fee...more

like · see review

Jan 25, 2013 Blodeuedd Finland rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance

We have a healer from an enemy clan, and the rake who has bedded half of Scotland. As you can imagine they bicker constantly ;)

Declan is a no good rogue who loves to bed women. Liadan is a gentle healer who only wants to help people. They met in book 1, but you do not need to read book 1 to follow the story. This is a new story, their story.

At first we have court intrigues, and a sinister plot in the making. You will see what when a certain character shows up, and you will know at once. The rom...more

like · see review

Jan 22, 2013 Shauni rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: netgalley, reading-romance-challenge

In Book two of Victoria Roberts Bad Boys of the Highlands Series we meet the every smexy Declan MacGregor *sigh* excuse me while I swoon just a bit. and the oh so unique Lady Liadain Campbell, a Campbell with a conscience.

Declan MacGregor, the womanizing Rake.. ready to tup just about anything in a skirt. Fun loving, passionate and loyal, To clan, country and king. Because of that loyalty he was left at court to stand for his clan while the rest of the family returned home. While he found it an...more In Book two of Victoria Roberts Bad Boys of the Highlands Series we meet the every smexy Declan MacGregor *sigh* excuse me while I swoon just a bit. and the oh so unique Lady Liadain Campbell, a Campbell with a conscience.

Declan MacGregor, the womanizing Rake.. ready to tup just about anything in a skirt. Fun loving, passionate and loyal, To clan, country and king. Because of that loyalty he was left at court to stand for his clan while the rest of the family returned home. While he found it an annoying bother he understood the importance. And he figured while he was there he would act as the unofficial guardian of Lady Liadain Campbell.. after all, she became a ward of the court because she did the right thing and saved Declan's family from her rather twisted brother.

Lady Liadain Campbell, a lady used to being ignored. She has spent her entire life learning how to become invisible. Making sure neither her father or brother really paid much attention to her. It was safer that way.. but when she decides to make a stand boy does she make a stand. Only problem is, she ends up a ward of the court. While there she discovers the man who took her innocence and promised her marriage before he went on his merry way. And as a healer she is asked to care for his wife and unborn child. It just seems the burdens keep piling up.

When Declan wins an archery contest he wins Castle Campbell as his reward, oh and Liadain as well. As a MacGregor her really doesn't want a Campbell as a wife even if she is everything he could ever dream of. Little does he know that having a Campbell bride is the least of his problems, that he is being set up to take the fall for killing the king.

I enjoyed this book quite a bit and found Ms Roberts use of Guy Fawkes and the history of Guy Fawkes day to be really well done. Of course being a huge V for Vendetta fan, I couldn't help but quote remember remember the 5th of November.. every time I read his name.. but that's what good literature can do for you. Make you think, of other things, and Ms Roberts does a good job.

I really enjoyed this book and most definitely recommend it.

Shauni

This review is based on the ARC of X Marks the Scot provided by netgalley and is scheduled for release on February 5, 2013

For more reviews by Shauni check out Tea and Book and
Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy (less)

2 likes · like · see review

Jan 23, 2013 The Window Seat rated it 2 of 5 stars

I chose this book because it was “right in my sweet spot!” It had all the earmarks of a perfect book for me - early 17th century Scotland, kilted warriors that were more bonny than the women, intrigue, nefarious plots, evil lurking around every corner… but I was disappointed. The idea was wonderful; the execution just fell a little short.

Declan MacGregor, third son and notorious rake was sent from Glen Orchy in the Highlands, to the King’s Palace at his brother, the Laird’s request. He was to wa...more

1 like · like · see review

Jun 09, 2013 Diane rated it 5 of 5 stars

Another thrilling novel from Victoria Roberts. The second book in a series finds us revisiting the MacGregor and Campbell clans. Declan MacGregor would rather be anywhere by at court babysitting a Campbell, but that is exactly where he is. Sent in place of his brother he is there to make the King away of what happened between the two clans.

Liadain has come with MacGregor to confirm the actions of her dead brother. Now with no family she is a ward of the court until the King decides her fate. How...more

like · see review

Jan 23, 2013 Terree rated it 3 of 5 stars

I chose this book because it was “right in my sweet spot!” It had all the earmarks of a perfect book for me; early 17th century Scotland, kilted warriors that were more bonny than the women, intrigue, nefarious plots, evil lurking around every corner… but I was disappointed. The idea was wonderful; the execution just fell a little short.

Declan MacGregor, third son and notorious rake was sent from Glen Orchy in the Highlands, to the King’s Palace at his brother, the Laird’s request. He was to wat...more

like · see review

Feb 24, 2013 Kathie (katmom) rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: netgalley-request

This looked to be right up my alley. A Scottish Laird and a strong willed healer, forced to marry.

This is book two in the Bad Boys of the Highlands series. And that title (and modern phrasing) should have given me a bit of warning. The language was a show stopper in my opinion. I do like a bit of brogue in a book set in this area, but this was over the top. It was also written with a modern turn of phrase. So here we have brogue, but wrapped around modern ways of saying things. It stopped me in...more This looked to be right up my alley. A Scottish Laird and a strong willed healer, forced to marry.

This is book two in the Bad Boys of the Highlands series. And that title (and modern phrasing) should have given me a bit of warning. The language was a show stopper in my opinion. I do like a bit of brogue in a book set in this area, but this was over the top. It was also written with a modern turn of phrase. So here we have brogue, but wrapped around modern ways of saying things. It stopped me in my tracks more than once. Also, a character would say something in Gaelic (I assume), and then the translation of it would be written immediately afterwards. Very odd.

Declan likes women. Lots of women. He probably can't even tell a person how many women he's slept with. Have to give him credit, the women are always satisfied at the end of their encounters, so he gets points for that. His response to Liadain a few times made me want to slap him.

He's taken it upon himself to guard Liadain, the sister of The Bloody Campbell from the first book and a very bad man from all accounts. She's a healer, too. There are whispers that she is actually a witch. But he doesn't like her much, even though he feels the need to guard her at court. And she's not overly fond of him, either. Their clans have been at war for ages, with some good reasons.

Imagine her surprise when the man who promised to marry her, and the one she gave her innocence to years ago, arrives. But now he's married to a lovely woman with a child on the way. He has a hand in their marrying and neither Declan or Liadain are happy about that. In my opinion, he never gets his comeuppance for what he did to her.

There's a subplot about Guy Fawkes that was used to make Declan look like he committed treason and I found to be not very interesting.

I have to say that I had to force myself to finish this book. Between the language issue, the pacing of the plot, small issues with regard to a boy named John and the rushed ending, I had a hard time finishing.

There were several small issues that brought this down from a 3 to a 2 star. They are spoilerish, so won't list them.

Of course, this is just one reader's opinion and others may love it. In fact, many other reviewers found it very enjoyable. For some the language used won't be a bother and they won't mind the pacing. Apparently this author did not write this book for me.

Thank you, NetGalley and Sourcebooks, for giving me the opportunity to read X MARKS THE SCOT.(less)

like · see review

Feb 07, 2013 Lori McD rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2013_read, action, bad-boy, celtic, chick-lit, cozy-mystery, easy-read, female-bonding, highlander, historical-fiction, intrigue, jammf_2013_challenge, kindle-book, own, romance, scottish-lit, some-steam, spies, suspense

3.5 stars

There's something very comfortable about this book... it plays by the rules of both Highland stories and romance stories. But it's... predictable. Well-written (I've come to expect that ebooks have typos in them) and picking up with Declan and Liadan from the 1st book, it's a great afternoon read with your favorite hot beverage and decadent box of chocolates.

Declan isn't as swoon-worthy as in the 1st book, but that's because, despite being a "bad boy", Declan is really the hero and lova...more

1 like · like · see review

Apr 06, 2013 Sandy M rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical

I really liked Declan MacGregor in the first book in this series, Temptation in a Kilt. He was a real bad boy – drinking, wenching, and rebelling against older brother Ciarnan’s rule. I had high hopes for that bad boy to give us a good time in his own book.

And while he does deliver on one level a good story, it’s not as the bad boy I’d hoped for. In fact, in the beginning he’s a tad on the mean side, but he does realize that early on and tries to tone down. He’s at court looking out for Liadain...more I really liked Declan MacGregor in the first book in this series, Temptation in a Kilt. He was a real bad boy – drinking, wenching, and rebelling against older brother Ciarnan’s rule. I had high hopes for that bad boy to give us a good time in his own book.

And while he does deliver on one level a good story, it’s not as the bad boy I’d hoped for. In fact, in the beginning he’s a tad on the mean side, but he does realize that early on and tries to tone down. He’s at court looking out for Liadain Campbell, sister of the recently deceased Earl of Argyll and now a ward of the court. Having his drinking and wenching curtailed some, he still partakes when he gets the chance, which is a relief to be away from the healer for a while. The woman pushes his buttons something fierce.

Liadain is nervous about her future, now knowing what the king will decide to be done with her. More than likely she’ll be married off, though she hopes it’s not to a stuffy English lord. She misses her Highlands and her home and realizes she may never see either again. MacGregor is as vexing as a man can be, despite his charm that hides behind his arrogant attitude. Having just made a breakthrough with the man so they now enjoy each other when together, the king drops a huge bomb on them.

Declan is known for his prowess with a bow and is a competitor. So when a contest is set up, he’s the winner hands down. The king’s prize is Castle Campbell, and Declan is elated. A home of his own – without his pushy brothers. This is the beginning of a life he never thought he’d have, and having a family in that house might not be a bad idea. Then another bomb explodes. Not only does the winner get Castle Campbell, he also is commanded to wed Liadain. Declan is mad as a wet hen at the twist fate has taken his life and Liadain isn’t super happy, but she’s willing to try to make things work.

This is where some of the fun comes in. It’s amusing to see them argue and flirt their way to love. Declan begins to take all his new responsibilities seriously, while realizing his new wife is exactly what he needs. But then mystery and intrigue interrupt – Declan is arrested and carted back to court to face the king. Both he and Liadain begin to realize how deep their feelings truly go and what the future will be like without each other. Liadain is one of those heroines who doesn’t do as the menfolk demand, like stay home and out of danger, so she’s right in the thick of things trying to free her husband, right along with his brothers.

Though Declan isn’t a downright bad boy, as was my nitpick about Ciaran in the first book, he has his moments. That, along with the banter and court intrigue, make this story a bit better than the first. I still wonder, though, if I’ll get my total bad boy of the Highlands yet. There’s still hope with another book in the series due out later this year.

See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com (less)

1 like · like · see review

Jun 06, 2013 Connie N. rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: medieval-romance

This is my first book by this author, and it won't be the last. Roberts creates a strong sense of the family ties and Scottish pride of the Highland people in the 1600's. It was a man's world and a dangerous one, but this particular family respects the strong women in their lives. Declan, the playboy, becomes involved with the sister of his family's enemy. There are many hurdles to overcome, not the least of which is their unintentional involvement in a plot against the king. Since this is Book...more

like · see review

Mar 14, 2013 Sarah - Exploring All Genres rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: romance, netgalley

The publisher provided me with a copy of this book to review via NetGalley.

X Marks The Scot is the second book in the Bad Boys of the Highlands series, however I found that it could be read easily as a stand alone novel.

I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book to start with. Honestly the only reason I even read it was so that I could have a book that started with the letter X in my A-Z Reading Challenge. However once I started to read this book I found it fairly enjoyable. I can’t say that it...more The publisher provided me with a copy of this book to review via NetGalley.

X Marks The Scot is the second book in the Bad Boys of the Highlands series, however I found that it could be read easily as a stand alone novel.

I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book to start with. Honestly the only reason I even read it was so that I could have a book that started with the letter X in my A-Z Reading Challenge. However once I started to read this book I found it fairly enjoyable. I can’t say that it jumped out at me as something downright amazing, nor was it something I disliked or struggled to read. The story flowed smoothly enough that I found myself sailing through the pages at a quick rate.

As far as characters go I liked Liadian as the female lead. She was strong, willing to do things herself and didn’t hold her thoughts back when speaking with others, especially when talking to Declan. She had a bit of spunk to her which made her more likeable that most female characters where they are too weak and ladylike to do things for themselves. Declan was a decent enough male lead character. He looked out for Liadian from the get go even if he wasn’t too happy about having to watch her or the fact that she wandered off without escort all the time.

There were some amusing portions of this book, the one that sticks out the most to me is when Liadain was showing Declan all the hidden tunnels under her family castle. They had a humorous exchange in the dark that made the scene progress past the boring feel of wandering blackened hallways.

One part of the book I didn’t enjoy was reading the dialog. Since most of the characters are Scottish their dialog was done with a Scottish accent which made reading the first half of the book a bit agonizing for the first half. I found it interrupted the flow of the story since my reading would come to an almost standstill as I read over the dialog. This was easier int he second half of the book since by that time I was used to the way they spoke and could quickly get through all the dialog.

Overall this was a fairly good book. I’d certainly recommend it to those who enjoy romances, especially those who like Scottish men and landscapes. Would I read the previous novel and the upcoming one in the series? Possibly, though I’m in no rush to do so.(less)

like · see review

Nov 04, 2012 Mary Beth rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: net-galley-arc

I received this book for free from NetGalley for an honest review.
This book is the second in a series, which I didn't read, and relies on the fact that the reader is familiar with all the characters. Since I had no idea who anyone was, it took a while to get into it. Once I did it was a decent story, but nothing new or original. It followed the same formula of most highland novels.
1. Roguish gorgeous highlander that all the women want
2. Female that is different than all the others because she is...more

1 like · like · see review

Nov 11, 2012 *Babs* rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: highlander

Recieved via Netgalley

My thoughts:

Declan and Lady Liadian did not get along to well in the beginning. Declan had to keep an eye on Liadian but wanted to do his own thing. When he would leave her alone she wanted him to stay. She was growing an attachment to him. When they started to try and like each other the King order the two to bed wed after she gave her statement about her brother and how he was killed.

Now they arrive back to the MacGregor land and things start to take place. Can the two co...more

like · see review

May 24, 2013 Regan Walker rated it 3 of 5 stars

3 and ½ stars Entertaining Scottish Tale of the Youngest MacGregor Brother

I was initially put off by the book’s title as I thought it might be more farce than historical romance (there are many like that out there), but, in fact, this is historical romance.

Set in England in 1604, it is the story of Lady Liadain Campbell, who became the ward of King James when Ciaran MacGregor righteously took her half brother’s life. Stranded at court, Liadain fears she will never again see the Highlands she lo...more 3 and ½ stars Entertaining Scottish Tale of the Youngest MacGregor Brother

I was initially put off by the book’s title as I thought it might be more farce than historical romance (there are many like that out there), but, in fact, this is historical romance.

Set in England in 1604, it is the story of Lady Liadain Campbell, who became the ward of King James when Ciaran MacGregor righteously took her half brother’s life. Stranded at court, Liadain fears she will never again see the Highlands she loves. Meanwhile, Declan MacGregor, the youngest of the three MacGregor brothers, feels obligated to see to Liadain’s safety and remains at court as her protector. In the course of events, Declan wins an archery contest and the king’s prize is Campbell Castle—and Liadain. While neither wants the other, Liadain and Declan are wed by the king’s order.

Faced with a husband who is unenthusiastic about having her as his wife, Liadain is encouraged by Rosalia and Aisling (two women presumably from book 1 and the wives of Declan’s brothers), to resort to tempting her husband to want her. (I wasn’t crazy about that manipulation on the part of the heroine and the other women and it seemed unnecessary as he continually lusted after her.) There is also a plot against the king which comes into play at the beginning and the end.

Roberts can write well and definitely has worked hard to capture the Scottish feel with the language, and for that I give her full marks. Yet there were some things that didn’t seem in period (some modern phrasing). Also, one annoying feature: all the women giggle in this story. And, while I liked both the hero and the heroine, I didn’t see them together. So, when one of the women tells Liadain her husband loves her, it didn’t seem believable. Lust yes, love no. I also thought the story was best at the beginning and the end and lagged in the middle. All of that makes up for a mixed review. Good writing but a story with a few issues.

With many references to the first book, I’d suggest you read the series in order.

Bad Boys of the Highlands series thus far

Temptation in a Kilt
X Marks the Scot
To Wed a Wicked Highlander
(less)

like · see review

Jun 13, 2013 Dottie rated it 5 of 5 stars

An exhilarating Highlander romance! Taken from my review at RomanceJunkies.com:

Liadain Campbell, a healer, is the half-sister of Archie, the Earl of Argyll, the enemy of the MacGregor clan. After Archie imprisons two of the MacGregor women, along with a baby, in his dungeon under vile conditions, he is killed by Ciardan, the MacGregor laird. In the meantime, Liadain helps the captives escape. Archie had been one of the king’s men, so the MacGregors face charges. However, Liadain travels to the c...more An exhilarating Highlander romance! Taken from my review at RomanceJunkies.com:

Liadain Campbell, a healer, is the half-sister of Archie, the Earl of Argyll, the enemy of the MacGregor clan. After Archie imprisons two of the MacGregor women, along with a baby, in his dungeon under vile conditions, he is killed by Ciardan, the MacGregor laird. In the meantime, Liadain helps the captives escape. Archie had been one of the king’s men, so the MacGregors face charges. However, Liadain travels to the court and testifies for them, against her half-brother. Her life with Archie and father had not been an easy one, as she struggled to keep from drawing their attentions. With the death of Archie, she no longer has any family so she has become a ward of the king. Wanting nothing more than to return home, she anxiously awaits to see what the king plans for her, fearing that she will be married off to an English lord, unable to see her beloved Highlands again. Three years prior, she had lost her innocence to Robert, a man who promised to marry her and then disappeared without even saying goodbye. She is shocked when she sees him at the court with his bride, who is heavily pregnant.

Declan MacGregor of Glenorchy, the brother of the MacGregor laird, is known for his drinking and wenching, but he travels to the court to clear his clan’s name. He stays there to watch over Liadain and protect her. After all, she has done for his clan, he figures this is the least he can do. While at the court, he is approached by a few men who are surreptitiously plotting to kill the king, but he will have nothing to do with their plot. As he lingers at the court, he enters an archery contest, in which the winner will be awarded the Campbell estate and the surrounding acreage. Being the third son in his family, this would be a great boost for him. But when he wins the contest, he discovers that he has also won a bride…Liadain. As much as he desires her, she is a Campbell. He is angry, unable to believe that he has been saddled with a bride, much less a Campbell. With an impromptu wedding, he and Liadain are soon on their way home amid rumors that Liadain is a witch, after she comes to the rescue of Robert’s ailing wife.

At first, things are very strained between the couple, but slowly, with their close proximity, sparks begin to fly between them. But before they even get a chance to get settled into their home together, an attempt is made on the king’s life and MacGregor, with his superior skill with the bow, is fingered as the villain and taken into custody. Will Liadain be able to save her husband, or will she lose the man she has come to love?

An exhilarating tale, X MARKS THE SCOT, the second book in talented author Victoria Roberts’ BAD BOYS OF THE HIGHLANDS series, is an adventure-packed, sensual historical romance that I could not put down until I reached the very satisfying ending. Although this kept me up late into the night, the loss of sleep was well worth it. Liadain is the exact opposite of her half-brother; being kind, loyal and loving. But although Declan flirts with her, he becomes very angry when he is forced to marry her, only seeing that she is a Campbell. However, this did not keep the sparks from flying between them and heightening their awareness of each other. These two were great together as a couple. By combining bad boy Highlanders, pride, trust, betrayal, adventure, scandal, intrigue, witty banter, passion, romance and love, Ms. Roberts has penned a wonderfully exciting story that you will not want to miss. As a fan of Ms. Roberts’ BAD BOYS OF THE HIGHLANDS series, I look forward to reading the next addition to this delightful collection, TO WED A WICKED HIGHLANDER, which is due out in September, 2013. Although X MARKS THE SCOT is part of a series, it can be read alone, but I suggest also reading the first book, TEMPTATION IN A KILT, for additional enjoyment. Above all, be sure to pick up your own copy of X MARKS THE SCOT. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great read with plenty of sass, spice and adventure, not to mention the sexy Highlanders.

Dottie, RomanceJunkies.com(less)
(less)

like · see review

Feb 04, 2013 My Book Addiction and More MBA rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance, medieval-era, scotland

X MARKS THE SCOT by Victoria Roberts is an exciting Scottish Medieval historical romance. #2 in the "Bad Boys of the Highlands",but can be read as a stand alone. See,"Temptation in a Kilt". Declan MacGregor,is wicked with the ladies as well as with a bow,which could be deadly. Lady Liadain Campbell,a healer,whose brother was a traitor and an evil man. Follow them on a journey of treason,betrayal,danger,Scottish Highlanders,secrets,intrigue at court,passion and love. As treason is on every corner...more

like · see review

Feb 16, 2013 Nicole Laverdure rated it 5 of 5 stars

Captivating!
I just finished reading “X Marks the Scot” by Victoria Roberts.
I really enjoyed Ms. Roberts’s first book “Temptation in a kilt” of her Bad Boys of the
Highlands and was not disappointed with this one either.
I loved her characters Declan MacGregor, a Rogue and Liadain Campbell, a Healer.
His two passions in life are womens and drinking. He feels misunderstood by all.
As for her, she leads quiet life as a healer for her people, but she is also a sharp tongue woman.
Ciaran, Declan’s broth...more

like · see review

Jan 06, 2013 Farrah rated it 5 of 5 stars

This review also appears on my blog at http://www.thegoldenruleof666.blogspo...

I LOVED this book. It was an excellent historical romance, just wonderful.

I adored the first in the series, so I hoped for the best with book 2. And, wow, did it deliver. With its combinations of delicious romance and nefarious plots, this book keeps you on your toes.

Liadain is a strong woman. After all she has gone through, she refuses to let it get her down. She held strong through all the political intrigue and plo...more

like · see review

Jun 16, 2013 Aisha Oaktree rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2013-reviews, 2013-tbr-pile-challenge, for-review-netgalley, netgalley-reviews, read-in-2013, romance, historical-romance

Originally posted on Bewitching Bibliophile

I was totally looking forward to reading Declan's story especially after he annoyed me a bit and intrigued me in the first book, Temptation In A Kilt. When I dived in, the story moved pretty fast in the beginning, then dragged a little in the middle then quickly wrapped up in the end.

Declan is the irresponsible child because he is the third son, nothing much is required of him and so he spends his days wenching, drinking and dithering his life away, af...more Originally posted on Bewitching Bibliophile

I was totally looking forward to reading Declan's story especially after he annoyed me a bit and intrigued me in the first book, Temptation In A Kilt. When I dived in, the story moved pretty fast in the beginning, then dragged a little in the middle then quickly wrapped up in the end.

Declan is the irresponsible child because he is the third son, nothing much is required of him and so he spends his days wenching, drinking and dithering his life away, after his brother's life changed & he found that he wasn't as fond of his own life as he thought he made it his mission to look out for the Bloody Campbell's little sister until King James made a decision about her fate. Once the major players were mentioned I kind of knew what was going to happen especially because I'm a huge history fanatic lover. I still read on because I wanted to see how Victoria (the author) was going to spin the tale, how each character was going to react and just what was going to happen within her story.

This was perhaps the longest story to get to the point, I know she had to build the characters, but at times I was tempted to skip ahead and see what was happening on the action front, especially after they left court. Perhaps because I knew the history of the events; I found it to be a bit predictable ( I mean you can only do so much when it's historical facts and not just conjecture) I was a little impatient and it made me rush the story a little. About 3/4s of the way into the story the tone kind of changed and I wasn't really fond of the change.

I loved this side of Declan & I really enjoyed seeing his growth and even how much Liadain kept him on his toes. I enjoyed reading their tale because they were such a fun couple to read. I liked that they were enemies, then uneasy friends and that they built up from that. It made it a little more awesome that there was a little bit of familiarity already there. Although Liadain kept surprising

As I read however I noted that Liadain was using words which wouldn't necessarily have been around at that time like "dolt", in her thinking towards men, especially towards Declan, which was out of character for her, at least from what we have read so far, when she started using it. The other women's insistence on 'girl' power, and their demand to wear pants <~~~ yeah at that time it wasn't going to happen, let's be real. I know it's a romance and we want the characters to be strong, feminine women in charge of themselves but historical that wasn't going to happen at all. It was way too modern and didn't really enhance the story at all.

My other pet peeve in reading was the lack of names used, Delan insisted on calling her "healer" the whole time, instead of her name or title which would have been more accurate for the time period. Which made for an interesting love story read, because by doing that aren't you creating distance m?? between them? Hmmm, then again Liadain called him MacGregor the whole time as well.

Beyond my own quirky issues, the book actually flowed well, had great dialogue and moved well enough to keep you engaged. There wasn't much action in this one, and what little there was, was reserved for the end of the novel, as the bulk of it was about Declan and Liadain's courtship (I mean that's why we're here isn't it??). An enjoyable read.
★★★1/2☆☆(less)

like · see review

Feb 17, 2013 Diana Leigh rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: kindle, historical-romance, men-in-kilts

I love me some Declan. *swoon*

X MARKS THE SCOT picks up where the first book (TEMPTATION IN A KILT) ended. Laird Ciaran MacGregor's youngest brother Declan is sent to the English court as an escort for Lady Liadain Campbell, and neither one is happy about the arrangement. It *might* be because their clans have been mortal enemies forever and ever, and Declan would rather drink and bed the lasses than be responsible for anything.

In spite of the fact that he's a naughty rogue, Declan takes his job...more

like · see review

Apr 18, 2013 Marcia rated it 4 of 5 stars

Declan MacGregor is the third son and all around ladies man. The only care he has is for family, which is the only reason he is at an English court chaperoning a Campbell. Lady Liadain Campbell saved his sisters by marriage lives. The healer, Lady Liadain is used to doing as she pleases, as the healer for the Campbell and all but forgotten half-sister, she is displeased with her new MaGregor bodyguard. When the two end up bound together for life in circumstances neither of them expected, they wi...more

like · see review

Jan 31, 2013 Proserpine rated it 5 of 5 stars

As you may know now, I do not only crave Paranormal Romance stories, but also Historical Romance and the ones with sexy Highlanders or Scotsmans are my favorite. I knew when I picked up X Marks the Scot, I wouldn't be disappointed.

First of all, this book is the sequel of Temptation in a Kilt, who was release in last September 2012 and I adored this book. I was easy to convince: the story combined everything I love in this genre. X Marks the Scot is Declan's story, Ciaran little brother and Liada...more

like · see review

Feb 11, 2013 Jackie rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: e-book-edition-for-review, arc-galley-copy, netgalley-e-book, read-in-2013, full-review-to-come-soon, read-for-review-2013

BOOK SYNOPSIS

He was a Highland rogue—
wicked with a bow and just as wicked with the ladies.

Declan MacGregor hadn’t a care in the world beyond finding a soft bed and willing woman…until he had to escort Lady Liadain Campbell to the English court. The woman needles him at every turn, but he can’t just abandon her to that vipers’ nest without protection.

She never asked for a bodyguard…

Liadain wasn’t thrilled to be left in the care of her clan’s archrival. It was as if the man never had a lady tel...more

like · see review

Jun 06, 2013 .þµŋψà. [Punya Reviews...] rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: For charming rogues and smart heroines...

Shelves: victoria-roberts, highlander-scot, omg-was-it-fun-or-what

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. My review contains spoilers and they're mostly my thoughts as I went with the book...

X Marks the Scot by Victoria Roberts was pretty damned good! Since my experience with book 1 wasn’t inspiring, I didn’t know what to expect from this one. But, VR made it all worthwhile for me! I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline, but mostly, I loved seeing Declan and Liadain together. They were SO hilarious at times that I had a constant grin on my face throughout the story. These funny moments were definitely a...more

like · see review

title link	preview: X Marks the Scot
avg rating	preview: X Marks the Scot Goodreads rating: 4.03 (120 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15838783-x-marks-the-scot?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1358055473l/15838783.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15838783-x-marks-the-scot?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]X Marks the Scot by Victoria Roberts[/url]

X Marks the Scot (Bad Boys of the Highlands #2)

Friend Reviews

Lists with This Book

Community Reviews

new topic
Discuss This Book

combine
Other Editions (2)

Genres

Readers also enjoyed similar books

About Victoria Roberts

Books by Victoria Roberts

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website

Trivia About X Marks the Scot