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The Sutherlands #3
How to Handle a Highlander
Moira Frazer is betrothed to a man who is old enough to be her father, but it's her duty to her clan to marry him, and she's determined to see this through…until she meets Gahan Sutherland.
Gahan knows this match is designed to start a feud between the clans, which is why he decides to stop the wedding. But when Moira awakens a passion within him that he never knew existed, he realizes that the outcome of this perilous situation will determine the future of his own happiness.
As trust and honor clash with forbidden attraction, manipulations, rivalries, and schemes will threaten to blow the Highlands sky high…
Gahan knows this match is designed to start a feud between the clans, which is why he decides to stop the wedding. But when Moira awakens a passion within him that he never knew existed, he realizes that the outcome of this perilous situation will determine the future of his own happiness.
As trust and honor clash with forbidden attraction, manipulations, rivalries, and schemes will threaten to blow the Highlands sky high…
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 5, 2013
104 people are currently reading
587 people want to read
About the author
Mary Wine
83 books815 followersMary Wine has written over twenty novels that take her readers from the pages of history to the far reaches of space. Recent winner of a 2008 EPPIE Award for erotic western romance, her book LET ME LOVE YOU was quoted “Not to be missed…” by Lora Leigh, New York Times best-selling author.
When she’s not abusing a laptop, she spends time with her sewing machines…all of them! Making historical garments is her second passion. From corsets and knickers to court dresses of Elizabeth I, the most expensive clothes she owns are hundreds of years out of date. She’s also an active student of martial arts, having earned the rank of second degree black belt.
When she’s not abusing a laptop, she spends time with her sewing machines…all of them! Making historical garments is her second passion. From corsets and knickers to court dresses of Elizabeth I, the most expensive clothes she owns are hundreds of years out of date. She’s also an active student of martial arts, having earned the rank of second degree black belt.
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November 22, 2013
How to Handle a Highlander by Mary Wine
Story Rating ~ 4 Stars
Hero Rating ~ 4 Stars
Heroine Rating ~ 5 Stars
Romance Rating ~ 4 Stars
Heat Level ~ 4.5 Stars
Ending ~ 3.5 Stars
Overall rating ~ 4 Stars
I’ve been a huge fan of Mary Wine’s Highlander series for quite some time. I’ve read everyone and have really enjoyed them all.
This book completely held my attention from start to finish. It was packed with FANTASTIC characters my favorite being the heroine Moira. I really liked how smart she was but also how she coped with the situations that she was put through. She always’ put the safety of others before herself and gave into what she felt was her duty even if it was something she did not want to do. She held her head high even around people who thought badly about her.
The hero Gahan was also a fantastic character. He was very leery of Moira when they first met but it did not take long for him to realize that she was an honorable woman. These two fit each other perfectly in every way. Of course as with any Scottish romance the hero’s are strong, fierce, loyal, honorable, protective, sexy and very lusty, Gahan was all those things and so much more.
These two had excellent chemistry together and I loved reading about every stolen encounter. The love scenes were many and VERY sensual.
The ending was good but I felt there was a few questions in my mind that were not answered, hence the 3.5 rating. I felt that an epilogue would have added the bit more I was craving. I’m thinking that maybe those questions may be answered for me in the next book, The Highlanders Bride Trouble that is scheduled for release June 3, 2014.
How To Handle a Highlander is book 6 in the Highlander series. There are many of characters that crossed over from book to book. I feel that it’s does help to read the previous books first however I also feel that you can read this as a standalone if you so desire.
Overall my feelings on this book are that Mary Wine writes her Scottish romance just the way I love them to be, with good story lines, excellent characters, truly evil villains and plenty of heat.
Story Rating ~ 4 Stars
Hero Rating ~ 4 Stars
Heroine Rating ~ 5 Stars
Romance Rating ~ 4 Stars
Heat Level ~ 4.5 Stars
Ending ~ 3.5 Stars
Overall rating ~ 4 Stars
I’ve been a huge fan of Mary Wine’s Highlander series for quite some time. I’ve read everyone and have really enjoyed them all.
This book completely held my attention from start to finish. It was packed with FANTASTIC characters my favorite being the heroine Moira. I really liked how smart she was but also how she coped with the situations that she was put through. She always’ put the safety of others before herself and gave into what she felt was her duty even if it was something she did not want to do. She held her head high even around people who thought badly about her.
The hero Gahan was also a fantastic character. He was very leery of Moira when they first met but it did not take long for him to realize that she was an honorable woman. These two fit each other perfectly in every way. Of course as with any Scottish romance the hero’s are strong, fierce, loyal, honorable, protective, sexy and very lusty, Gahan was all those things and so much more.
These two had excellent chemistry together and I loved reading about every stolen encounter. The love scenes were many and VERY sensual.
The ending was good but I felt there was a few questions in my mind that were not answered, hence the 3.5 rating. I felt that an epilogue would have added the bit more I was craving. I’m thinking that maybe those questions may be answered for me in the next book, The Highlanders Bride Trouble that is scheduled for release June 3, 2014.
How To Handle a Highlander is book 6 in the Highlander series. There are many of characters that crossed over from book to book. I feel that it’s does help to read the previous books first however I also feel that you can read this as a standalone if you so desire.
Overall my feelings on this book are that Mary Wine writes her Scottish romance just the way I love them to be, with good story lines, excellent characters, truly evil villains and plenty of heat.
October 25, 2013
Who could resist the history and romance of a Highlander Clan? Face it, there’ll be battles for sure, deceit, conniving, treachery, the handsome hero and the feisty heroine who share a forbidden love! What’s not to love? Moira knows her duty to her clan, her family and her half-brother. She will do anything for the safety of those in her clan even if it means being forced into marrying a decrepit old Laird who unbeknownst to her, has his own agenda in the quest for power and land. Enter hot and handsome Gahan Sutherland, the son of a Laird who nearly died at the hands of Moira’s evil half-sister. He arrives just in time to see the beautiful Moira and witness the humiliation she must face from her “betrothed.” In spite of her family ties, Gahan finds he is drawn to this young woman, but can he trust her? Moira never thought she could find a soul-deep love, until she saw Gahan. Will betrayals, revenge and her evil and demented family keep them apart or will love find a way with help from the young king?
Mary Wine’s How to Handle a Highlander is a standout in the historical romance genre! Her world feels historic, her men are manly, the women have grit, and the romantic tension is off the charts! The plot had enough twists to make a pretzel look like the shortest distance between two points!
Be honest, who doesn’t like a guy who can pull off wearing a kilt and still be swoon worthy while meeting his match in a woman half his size? Great entertainment, great reading, gotta love the Scots for good romance!
I received this ARC edition in exchange for my honest review from Sourcebooks Casablanca.
Expected Publication Date: November 5, 2013
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
ISBN: 9781402264771
Genre: Adult Historical Romance
Page Count: 352
Available from: Amazon / Barnes & Noble
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
Mary Wine’s How to Handle a Highlander is a standout in the historical romance genre! Her world feels historic, her men are manly, the women have grit, and the romantic tension is off the charts! The plot had enough twists to make a pretzel look like the shortest distance between two points!
Be honest, who doesn’t like a guy who can pull off wearing a kilt and still be swoon worthy while meeting his match in a woman half his size? Great entertainment, great reading, gotta love the Scots for good romance!
I received this ARC edition in exchange for my honest review from Sourcebooks Casablanca.
Expected Publication Date: November 5, 2013
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
ISBN: 9781402264771
Genre: Adult Historical Romance
Page Count: 352
Available from: Amazon / Barnes & Noble
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
October 6, 2013
How to Handle a Highlander was a wonderful historical romance. With steamy romance, sneaky manipulation, and a couple of psychopaths, this book is sure to be a hit. It was a fantastic read and I totally loved it!
Moira was a heroine determined to do what's best for her clan. Even if it means marrying a lecherous old man. And denying what she really wanted. I thought she was a strong character. She's dealt with years of being put down by her siblings and survived with her kindness intact. She was a likable heroine. I thought she was lovely and I really liked her.
Gahan was a highlander that was determined to have his way. And that, included stopping a clan war, taking down a corrupt laird, and marrying the woman he loves, who just so happens to already be married. Impossible, you say? Tell that to the stubborn highlander :) I adored him. I loved that he was so determined to do what was right, even if others didn't see it that way. He was super sweet and strong and absolutely adorable. I thought he was a wonderful hero.
The romance was very sweet. Moira and Gahan were adorable together. Because both of them had common roots, while they lived the nobility's world, they understood each other and I thought that was really sweet. And the sparks between them were hot, made even hotter by they very forbidden element of it. There were definitely some steamy scenes with these two. They were a lovely couple.
The plot was fast paced. I was kept interested the entire way through. The manipulations and secrets agendas that were going on had me on the edge of my seat, anxious to find out how all the schemes would turn out. The villains of this book, Felicity's siblings, were easy to hate and their ending was very satisfying. I really enjoyed the story and the ending was perfect.
How to Handle a Highlander was a fantastic historical romance. I really enjoyed this book. It was absolutely lovely. Lovers of romance, if you want some highlander fun and a brilliant read, then this is a book you'll want to check out.
*I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Moira was a heroine determined to do what's best for her clan. Even if it means marrying a lecherous old man. And denying what she really wanted. I thought she was a strong character. She's dealt with years of being put down by her siblings and survived with her kindness intact. She was a likable heroine. I thought she was lovely and I really liked her.
Gahan was a highlander that was determined to have his way. And that, included stopping a clan war, taking down a corrupt laird, and marrying the woman he loves, who just so happens to already be married. Impossible, you say? Tell that to the stubborn highlander :) I adored him. I loved that he was so determined to do what was right, even if others didn't see it that way. He was super sweet and strong and absolutely adorable. I thought he was a wonderful hero.
The romance was very sweet. Moira and Gahan were adorable together. Because both of them had common roots, while they lived the nobility's world, they understood each other and I thought that was really sweet. And the sparks between them were hot, made even hotter by they very forbidden element of it. There were definitely some steamy scenes with these two. They were a lovely couple.
The plot was fast paced. I was kept interested the entire way through. The manipulations and secrets agendas that were going on had me on the edge of my seat, anxious to find out how all the schemes would turn out. The villains of this book, Felicity's siblings, were easy to hate and their ending was very satisfying. I really enjoyed the story and the ending was perfect.
How to Handle a Highlander was a fantastic historical romance. I really enjoyed this book. It was absolutely lovely. Lovers of romance, if you want some highlander fun and a brilliant read, then this is a book you'll want to check out.
*I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
November 14, 2013
Might be spoilerish - I submitted review from my phone so I don't have the option to hide it. Sorry!
This book was not what I expected after reading the book description.
I have one steadfast rule - no cheating/adultery - no exceptions. Since this book features a married heroine who has a sexual relationship with the hero - there is adultery - I don't care how it is justified - it is adultery plain and simple.
And Gahan (weird name) certainly tries to justify it. Moira at least admits that they are wrong - but it doesn't stop her from breaking her vows - repeatedly.
I liked the characters - I really did and my heart broke for them, but that doesn't make it ok and yes, I can see Gahan's point that her marriage wasn't valid per highland code - but she made vows and those should matter - highland code or no
Anyway - the story was fast paced, extremely well written and it was great to see Norris and Daphne again (loved them!). It was also GREAT to see the villains get what they deserved (yes, I am a blood thirsty wench ). The love scenes were hot - I am still fanning myself!!
If I could get past the whole adultery thing - I would have rated this 5 stars, but I just couldn't - I believe in the sanctity of marriage and don't take vows lightly - even fictional ones.
I am really looking forward to Saer's (another weird name) book - he intrigues me - gotta love a man who thinks of himself as a savage :)
This book was not what I expected after reading the book description.
I have one steadfast rule - no cheating/adultery - no exceptions. Since this book features a married heroine who has a sexual relationship with the hero - there is adultery - I don't care how it is justified - it is adultery plain and simple.
And Gahan (weird name) certainly tries to justify it. Moira at least admits that they are wrong - but it doesn't stop her from breaking her vows - repeatedly.
I liked the characters - I really did and my heart broke for them, but that doesn't make it ok and yes, I can see Gahan's point that her marriage wasn't valid per highland code - but she made vows and those should matter - highland code or no
Anyway - the story was fast paced, extremely well written and it was great to see Norris and Daphne again (loved them!). It was also GREAT to see the villains get what they deserved (yes, I am a blood thirsty wench ). The love scenes were hot - I am still fanning myself!!
If I could get past the whole adultery thing - I would have rated this 5 stars, but I just couldn't - I believe in the sanctity of marriage and don't take vows lightly - even fictional ones.
I am really looking forward to Saer's (another weird name) book - he intrigues me - gotta love a man who thinks of himself as a savage :)
September 27, 2017
Moria Fraser has been given an ultimatum, marry the elderly Laird Achaius Morris or risk another deadly clan war. Gahan Sutherland knows that there is a dangerous plot afoot. Gahan will do all he can to stop this wedding, however, a hot-headed, fiery Highland Lass is involved, trust and honor will clash with a forbidden passion, which might blow the Highlands sky high.
January 2, 2021
Encore un coup de coeur ! Cette série est vraiment géniale, et ici, j'ai vraiment aimé qu'on soit du coté de l'ennemis et qu'on sache les points de vu et de comment la romance allait se mettre en place ect... Surtout qu'ici, je trouve que le contexte de la romance est plutôt original, en tout cas je pense pas en avoir lu des similaires.
November 14, 2013
Any book with a highland setting has to take into account the strong clan bonds and the sense of loyalty and honor to clan that is so inherent in the highland people. Mary Wine pays homage to that highland spirit in her latest book, How to Handle a Highlander, the third book in the Sutherland series. Wine not only does research into the costumes and customs of the times for her writing but she is skilled at understanding the highland way of life and the makeup of the people. These men were warriors and their women were strong and resilient. Wine brings readers a tale of love and betrayal and what it means to be family.
As always I have a keen interest in how books about the highlands describe and portray the highland people because of my own ancestry. It is always important to me that not only does an author get the scenario right and how things are done, but also the spirit of the people and Mary Wine does an excellent job of getting to the heart of her characters and showing her readers a side of the highland people they might not otherwise see.
In How to Handle a Highlander Wine gives us a woman who is deeply devoted to her clan. Moira Frasier is willing to sacrifice her own happiness to see that her clan is protected and not thrust into a war, despite the fact that her heart belongs to Gahan Sutherland. She will marry an aging Laird with schemes of his own because her half brother who has nothing but contempt for her wishes it to be so. Moira is a woman after my own heart. She is strong and courageous and knows that the good of the many sometimes outweighs the good of the few. She is steadfast in her loyalty to the people she cares for and that includes Gahan. I liked the fact that Wine makes her beautiful, but capable of just about anything.
Gahan is also an interesting character who knows what he wants and how to get it, or so he thinks. He is thwarted at every turn as he tries to free Moira from a loveless marriage to man whose greed knows no bounds. Gahan understands that he is taking a huge risk in loving Moira Frasier but he isn't willing to give her up. I liked the fact that he was focused and didn't let anything stand in his way. He was resourceful and tried a good many things before he finds what works. He didn't give up and Wine knows that's how a true highlander would be. They are passionate people who love just as hard as they fight and Gahan proved that out in this book.
There is so much going on in this novel. There are schemes and plans on top of plans. Bari Frasier wants his half sister to marry Matherson so they can unite and destroy the Sutherland's in retribution for his sister Sandra's death. Matherson realizes that Gahan loves Moira and will stop at nothing to get her. His agenda is more about taking the Frasier lands. It's all a game of cat and mouse and who will win the final prize. It's like the three clans are in a struggle with each other and each one is focusing on a different one. When it all starts to shake out and it's apparent that war is looming, the pace of the book really ramps up giving the reader not only an excellent romance, but a great adventure as well. I enjoyed that part of Wine's book very much.
The romance between Gahan and Moira is very hard won. But I think readers will love all of the things these two must go through to get their happy ending. It makes every scene between them literally spark with anticipation. When they come together the chemistry is palpable even through the pages of a book. I think Wine places just the right amount of emphasis on the love scenes, creating a good balance between action and romance. This one is definitely hot. There are scenes that will curl your toes, but that's to be expected when you have passionate characters and life and death often hangs in the balance.
Overall I thought this was a well written and researched novel. Wine knows her stuff and that's why it is always enjoyable to read any of her books. I recommend them all to readers who are looking for a good accurate idea of the highland spirit and clan dynamics. How to Handle a Highlander is my favorite of this series.
As always I have a keen interest in how books about the highlands describe and portray the highland people because of my own ancestry. It is always important to me that not only does an author get the scenario right and how things are done, but also the spirit of the people and Mary Wine does an excellent job of getting to the heart of her characters and showing her readers a side of the highland people they might not otherwise see.
In How to Handle a Highlander Wine gives us a woman who is deeply devoted to her clan. Moira Frasier is willing to sacrifice her own happiness to see that her clan is protected and not thrust into a war, despite the fact that her heart belongs to Gahan Sutherland. She will marry an aging Laird with schemes of his own because her half brother who has nothing but contempt for her wishes it to be so. Moira is a woman after my own heart. She is strong and courageous and knows that the good of the many sometimes outweighs the good of the few. She is steadfast in her loyalty to the people she cares for and that includes Gahan. I liked the fact that Wine makes her beautiful, but capable of just about anything.
Gahan is also an interesting character who knows what he wants and how to get it, or so he thinks. He is thwarted at every turn as he tries to free Moira from a loveless marriage to man whose greed knows no bounds. Gahan understands that he is taking a huge risk in loving Moira Frasier but he isn't willing to give her up. I liked the fact that he was focused and didn't let anything stand in his way. He was resourceful and tried a good many things before he finds what works. He didn't give up and Wine knows that's how a true highlander would be. They are passionate people who love just as hard as they fight and Gahan proved that out in this book.
There is so much going on in this novel. There are schemes and plans on top of plans. Bari Frasier wants his half sister to marry Matherson so they can unite and destroy the Sutherland's in retribution for his sister Sandra's death. Matherson realizes that Gahan loves Moira and will stop at nothing to get her. His agenda is more about taking the Frasier lands. It's all a game of cat and mouse and who will win the final prize. It's like the three clans are in a struggle with each other and each one is focusing on a different one. When it all starts to shake out and it's apparent that war is looming, the pace of the book really ramps up giving the reader not only an excellent romance, but a great adventure as well. I enjoyed that part of Wine's book very much.
The romance between Gahan and Moira is very hard won. But I think readers will love all of the things these two must go through to get their happy ending. It makes every scene between them literally spark with anticipation. When they come together the chemistry is palpable even through the pages of a book. I think Wine places just the right amount of emphasis on the love scenes, creating a good balance between action and romance. This one is definitely hot. There are scenes that will curl your toes, but that's to be expected when you have passionate characters and life and death often hangs in the balance.
Overall I thought this was a well written and researched novel. Wine knows her stuff and that's why it is always enjoyable to read any of her books. I recommend them all to readers who are looking for a good accurate idea of the highland spirit and clan dynamics. How to Handle a Highlander is my favorite of this series.
December 30, 2013
An intriguing, sexy historical romance! Taken from my review at RomanceJunkies.com:
Moira Fraser has lived under the thumbs of her half-mad brother, Laird Bari Fraser, and her evil half-sister, Sandra, most of her life. The report that Sandra is now dead has driven Bari even more insane and he wants vengeance against the Sutherlands, who he blames for her death. When Bari demands that Moira marry an elderly laird, Achaius Matheson, to gain them an ally against their enemy, she feels she has no choice. After all, among the Scottish clans, honor and duty comes first. Still, she is drawn to another…Gahan.
Gahan Sutherland is the illegitimate son of Laird Lytge Sutherland, but he is regarded the same as any of the laird’s legitimate sons since his father has acknowledged him as his own. Gahan and Bari are bitter enemies. After Sandra tried to poison his father, Gahan was given the decision on how to punish her, so Bari blames him specifically for her death. But from the moment Gahan meets Moira, he wants her for his own. However, she is about to wed someone else. Although he tries to convince her not to go through with the wedding, Moira can see no way out of it.
Gahan’s reasons for breaking up the marriage are not altogether altruistic, because he figures that the uniting of the two clans in marriage will have them descending upon his clan. By stopping the marriage, he hopes to bring peace and end further bloodshed. Still, he would do anything to have Moira by his side. Is there a way that they can have a future together and still keep the peace?
A compelling tale, HOW TO HANDLE A HIGHLANDER, the third book in author Mary Wine’s THE SUTHERLANDS series, is a stimulating, passionate historical romance that will leave readers longing for a Gahan of their own. Deceit and betrayal abound among the clans as the two lairds, Fraser and Matheson, each have their own secret plans for using Moira to get what they want. Meanwhile, Gahan and the Sutherlands have a secret of their own…one that may be the key to solving their problems. Readers will find themselves quickly caught up in this delectable tale.
Packed with hunky Highlanders, humor, clan dynamics, an arranged marriage, danger, adultery, manipulation, evil villains, romance and love, this well-written story will keep readers avidly turning the pages to see what happens next. Although this book can be read as a standalone, I am sure that after reading this one, you will seek out the rest of this series. This is an exciting, fast-paced tale! Take my advice and give it a try!
Dottie, RomanceJunkies.com
Moira Fraser has lived under the thumbs of her half-mad brother, Laird Bari Fraser, and her evil half-sister, Sandra, most of her life. The report that Sandra is now dead has driven Bari even more insane and he wants vengeance against the Sutherlands, who he blames for her death. When Bari demands that Moira marry an elderly laird, Achaius Matheson, to gain them an ally against their enemy, she feels she has no choice. After all, among the Scottish clans, honor and duty comes first. Still, she is drawn to another…Gahan.
Gahan Sutherland is the illegitimate son of Laird Lytge Sutherland, but he is regarded the same as any of the laird’s legitimate sons since his father has acknowledged him as his own. Gahan and Bari are bitter enemies. After Sandra tried to poison his father, Gahan was given the decision on how to punish her, so Bari blames him specifically for her death. But from the moment Gahan meets Moira, he wants her for his own. However, she is about to wed someone else. Although he tries to convince her not to go through with the wedding, Moira can see no way out of it.
Gahan’s reasons for breaking up the marriage are not altogether altruistic, because he figures that the uniting of the two clans in marriage will have them descending upon his clan. By stopping the marriage, he hopes to bring peace and end further bloodshed. Still, he would do anything to have Moira by his side. Is there a way that they can have a future together and still keep the peace?
A compelling tale, HOW TO HANDLE A HIGHLANDER, the third book in author Mary Wine’s THE SUTHERLANDS series, is a stimulating, passionate historical romance that will leave readers longing for a Gahan of their own. Deceit and betrayal abound among the clans as the two lairds, Fraser and Matheson, each have their own secret plans for using Moira to get what they want. Meanwhile, Gahan and the Sutherlands have a secret of their own…one that may be the key to solving their problems. Readers will find themselves quickly caught up in this delectable tale.
Packed with hunky Highlanders, humor, clan dynamics, an arranged marriage, danger, adultery, manipulation, evil villains, romance and love, this well-written story will keep readers avidly turning the pages to see what happens next. Although this book can be read as a standalone, I am sure that after reading this one, you will seek out the rest of this series. This is an exciting, fast-paced tale! Take my advice and give it a try!
Dottie, RomanceJunkies.com
February 24, 2016
I enjoyed this entire series (I read them out of order, but not on purpose). I gave this book 5 stars. However, I wanted to point out that I think there were way too many sex scenes and I nearly gave it 4 stars. Don't get me wrong, I love historical romance books, but I found myself skimming over the last two sex scenes just to get back to the story. I was like...geez...again? It could have been left assumed, without all the detail and taking me away from the story, but that's just me. Besides that, I enjoyed the book and a few surprises near the end, had me re-reading certain passages. Yeah, I like it when an author can be brave and unpredictable enough to absolutely floor the reader. For that reason, I bumped my rating back up to 5 stars! Well done!
A side note, because I'm being brave and a bit outspoken recently: Before posting this review, I also read a few others, but didn't change mine. I wanted to add a few comments about some reviews talking about adultery (on Amazon). Well, I really must laugh at that, lol. Why? OMG, really people? How many historical romance books have you read that most of he women are de-flowered/losing their virginity BEFORE they're married? A ton of them! They all talk about keeping their virtue, but in the end they ALL had premarital sex. Yeah, that's just as bad during that era. And speaking of this book, how can it be considered adultery, when the marriage was never even consummated? Also, what about all the historical romance books that talk about a husband or a wife having a lover outside of their marriage? I've never seen a reviewer say anything bad about that, so why scream adultery about this book? Geez! Anyway, my opinion only. To each his/her own.
A side note, because I'm being brave and a bit outspoken recently: Before posting this review, I also read a few others, but didn't change mine. I wanted to add a few comments about some reviews talking about adultery (on Amazon). Well, I really must laugh at that, lol. Why? OMG, really people? How many historical romance books have you read that most of he women are de-flowered/losing their virginity BEFORE they're married? A ton of them! They all talk about keeping their virtue, but in the end they ALL had premarital sex. Yeah, that's just as bad during that era. And speaking of this book, how can it be considered adultery, when the marriage was never even consummated? Also, what about all the historical romance books that talk about a husband or a wife having a lover outside of their marriage? I've never seen a reviewer say anything bad about that, so why scream adultery about this book? Geez! Anyway, my opinion only. To each his/her own.
February 20, 2014
This is the continuing saga of the Sutherlands. They are an overlord family of Scottish Highlanders. This story Is about Gahan and Moira. Gahan is the illegitimate son of the Sutherland chieftain. He was acknowledged by his father so he could be a semi titled man. After his father recovered from the attempt made on his life by the Frasers, they have been obsessed over safety and watching the Frazers closely. Due to this watching, Gahan notices that Bari Frazer is going to marry off his half sister to the Matheson family. This marriage will bring an army with the Frazers against Gahan's family.
Gahan is instantly drawn to Moira, the bride. Moira's husband is impotent at his advanced age and therefore their marriage is never consummated. The two start an affair and it causes quite the situation. The story is about duty to your clan, family loyalty and revenge.
I'm a big fan of Mary Wine and I get giddy when she releases one of her Highlander books. My problem with this one has to due with the infidelity throughout the story. I know that they thought back then that a marriage wasn't a marriage without consummation but the marriage in this book took place in a Church. This left me uneasy. I absolutely do not like adultery in my historical romances. Despite the fact that the story and love scenes were good, my rating was less because of this. I hope this won't be a continued themed in her following books.
Gahan is instantly drawn to Moira, the bride. Moira's husband is impotent at his advanced age and therefore their marriage is never consummated. The two start an affair and it causes quite the situation. The story is about duty to your clan, family loyalty and revenge.
I'm a big fan of Mary Wine and I get giddy when she releases one of her Highlander books. My problem with this one has to due with the infidelity throughout the story. I know that they thought back then that a marriage wasn't a marriage without consummation but the marriage in this book took place in a Church. This left me uneasy. I absolutely do not like adultery in my historical romances. Despite the fact that the story and love scenes were good, my rating was less because of this. I hope this won't be a continued themed in her following books.
October 22, 2013
I do think Mary Wine writes my favorite highlander stories. The men are just so very manly and the women are gutsy.
This is book 6 but sure we meet lots of old friends but you can still jump right in (my memory is bad anyway so I forget things). Moira is the half sister of the idiot Fraser (and the very evil Sandra who everyone hated.) She had been pretty neglected but likes her life anyway and wanted to do what was best for her clan. Even if that was to marry some smelly old man.
Gahan is the old enemy (but it's the Frasers who are asses). He liked her gutsy self after he got over the first Fraser woman! shock. And he did not give up in his pursuit, can't blame a guy for trying.
There are plots as the Frasers want to take down the Sutherlands. There is the whole Moira is married to the old guy and Gahan wants her plot. And then some other things I will not mention. So good things everywhere.
A good, passionate story about two lovers from feuding families.
Would I read more (I just saw this mentioned by someone so hey better than any rating)
Yes, and especially since I think that might be Saer's book yay
Cover
He does look good
This is book 6 but sure we meet lots of old friends but you can still jump right in (my memory is bad anyway so I forget things). Moira is the half sister of the idiot Fraser (and the very evil Sandra who everyone hated.) She had been pretty neglected but likes her life anyway and wanted to do what was best for her clan. Even if that was to marry some smelly old man.
Gahan is the old enemy (but it's the Frasers who are asses). He liked her gutsy self after he got over the first Fraser woman! shock. And he did not give up in his pursuit, can't blame a guy for trying.
There are plots as the Frasers want to take down the Sutherlands. There is the whole Moira is married to the old guy and Gahan wants her plot. And then some other things I will not mention. So good things everywhere.
A good, passionate story about two lovers from feuding families.
Would I read more (I just saw this mentioned by someone so hey better than any rating)
Yes, and especially since I think that might be Saer's book yay
Cover
He does look good
June 8, 2017
Despite the goofy title, this was another well-written, hardy Highlander romance. With plenty of intrigue, men in kilts, a strong heroin and surprisingly good plot twists... and one of the better villainesses I've encountered in HF romance.
July 11, 2015
Great Romance...lots of angst and interesting plot! Great Read!
November 8, 2019
A decent read!!!
But Unnecessary lengthiness can really spoil a good book. I’ve read too many highland books and I’ve kinda lost my “wow” factor when reading them so I seek something that can bring back that excitement. While this didn’t bring it back, it was nice enough to make me feel I wasn’t wasting my time. If I was reading it a few months ago, I might have appreciated it better.
I liked Moira’s character. She was cheating on her husband but somehow the author didn’t make her look so bad for doing so. I thought the fact that a hawk was her pet really weird though. How do hawks comfort anyone? Athens definitely wasn’t comforting.
Gahan was also really cool. There was just this air of humility that always clung to him. Although the writer never really let us know when exactly he started getting attached to Moira. He hardly ever thought of her as beautiful or sexy. They often just hopped right into the “act”.
Altogether the plot was really nice and I believe it would’ve been better if it was shorter.
But Unnecessary lengthiness can really spoil a good book. I’ve read too many highland books and I’ve kinda lost my “wow” factor when reading them so I seek something that can bring back that excitement. While this didn’t bring it back, it was nice enough to make me feel I wasn’t wasting my time. If I was reading it a few months ago, I might have appreciated it better.
I liked Moira’s character. She was cheating on her husband but somehow the author didn’t make her look so bad for doing so. I thought the fact that a hawk was her pet really weird though. How do hawks comfort anyone? Athens definitely wasn’t comforting.
Gahan was also really cool. There was just this air of humility that always clung to him. Although the writer never really let us know when exactly he started getting attached to Moira. He hardly ever thought of her as beautiful or sexy. They often just hopped right into the “act”.
Altogether the plot was really nice and I believe it would’ve been better if it was shorter.
May 6, 2017
Picked this up at the poolside lending library. While I realize this is the 3rd in a series and I may have missed some finer points in character development, I found it to be lacking in both character and plot development. Additionally, it was difficult to read with the old English nomenclature. I also somehow find it hard to believe they used the term "slut" in the 1400s.
June 20, 2017
Nope, didn't like this one.
I guess it's a tough act to follow the wedding series (highland spitfire, highland vixen, highland hellion) but I just did not like this one. I didn't like the plot and the characters were so so.
I guess it's a tough act to follow the wedding series (highland spitfire, highland vixen, highland hellion) but I just did not like this one. I didn't like the plot and the characters were so so.
January 9, 2021
Yes Another Wonderful Story!
I so loved this one. Actually I’ve loved all of Mary Wine’s Books! I stayed up all night to finish it! It’s 5:36am I’m off to sleep and wake up to read the 4th Book with Saer!! 💜💜💜💜💜🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰😊😊😊
I so loved this one. Actually I’ve loved all of Mary Wine’s Books! I stayed up all night to finish it! It’s 5:36am I’m off to sleep and wake up to read the 4th Book with Saer!! 💜💜💜💜💜🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰😊😊😊
November 25, 2016
I really liked...
The characters. The good and the bad ones. The plot was interesting. I'm looking forward to more by this author.
The characters. The good and the bad ones. The plot was interesting. I'm looking forward to more by this author.
February 11, 2017
I loved this book!
October 16, 2018
Everyone's scheming I think Moira is the only one trying to stay true.
October 19, 2018
I love this series! Such a great series! The murder, the mystery, the deceit and most importantly, Love. This series has it all!
December 10, 2018
Alright, although the romance was not suspenseful at all and the characters were a bit 1D
July 31, 2019
This was a great read. Full of excitement and romance. I am loving this series.
February 23, 2020
This was my favorite of the four stories in the series!
May 9, 2021
3.8***
Read
August 11, 2023It's kind of embarrassing how enjoyable a book can be. Total fluff
March 24, 2021
This one wasn't that good..
The hero and heroine...they just.. didn't seem to have chemistry..or true love..
The hero was selfish.. and the heroine confused...
The story was just going..
Nothing that really intrigued me..
Few things just didn't make sense at all...
The hero and heroine...they just.. didn't seem to have chemistry..or true love..
The hero was selfish.. and the heroine confused...
The story was just going..
Nothing that really intrigued me..
Few things just didn't make sense at all...
October 19, 2013
Usually people, and when I say 'people' I mean my mom and my sister, criticize me over my ability to determine who looks like who. According to them, the two people I often think look alike are very obviously different, and yet the similarity is clear as a sunny day to me.
The point of this three lined introduction is that I thought the cover guy of this book looked pretty similar to the famous-and very nice- tennis player Roger Federer. Can anyone else see the similarity? Or is it just me, and my mom and sister are right? Anyway, that was why this book struck me while I was looking for my next read.
Who doesn't love a story about Highlanders? Not me. The idea of men in kilts and the possibility of wink wink at the quick lift of said kilt is pretty attractive to me. I mean, think of all the naughty! And so I try not to ever say 'no' to any Highlander stories. Enter, the story of our hero and heroine, Gahan and Moira.
Moira is the poor good natured young woman who's forced to marry a man twice-or perhaps even thrice- her age just so her evil half brother can unite with the groom's army to defeat his enemy who happens to be our hero's father. Moira was hell bent on doing her duty to her people, and reading her parts, her desperation on the face of her marriage was a challenge. It made me so angry that she faced such a situation, and I expected some kind of reaction from her also. I may be a die hard romantic, but for the sake of the story, I could well do with some realistic situations. I did, however, expect more from Moira. As a reader, I had the privilege of being inside her head, peeking into her innermost thoughts and emotions, but what did I find there? Not much. Apart from her fear of marrying a man old enough to be her grandfather, her fear of her psychotic brother, and her sense of what I can only call an automatic responsibility towards her people were the only things in there.
The villains had more personality reflected than the hero and the heroine. In fact, all the characters except for the two, I'm sad to say, had more personality shining through the book. I loved to hate the slightly insane evil Bari and his equally evil sister Sandra, yet failed to love Moira and Gahan with the same intensity. And their love felt more like love at first fuck-pardon my French. It seemed like all they did was sneak around to find an opportunity for a tumble in the sheets, and how they found a way and the time to fall in love? Beats me. Actually, would anyone judge me if I said, for all their villainous ways and insanity, I liked the evil brother sister duo better? At least they stood their ground, and their intentions and reasoning for whatever they did was definitely much clearer.
Other than the bad gang, I liked the supporting good guys. I haven't read any other books from this series but I liked some of Gahan's half brothers, and I can say I'm actually looking forward to reading stories for a few of them. I think after I finished writing this, I might go see who's already got a book and who has not.
Since we're still somewhat on the subject of couples, I can't say I appreciated the way Gahan and Moira's relationship began. I know I said I didn't much like the way it went on but the start wasn't complementary towards Moira either. Call me a cliche lover-or I might lack the knowledge of the ways of the Highlanders- but I do like my romance a little on the side of the usual. I don't necessarily mean they see each other, they fall in love, get married and live happily ever after, they don't even have to be each other's first love or marriage, no, but in a time where a couple show the soiled sheet on their first night as husband and wife, I don't particularly appreciate the son of a laird taking the wife of another man-albeit the marriage being unconsummated.
In the end, I can't really say Moira handled her Highlander that well, and all of this seems to have pointed me towards a low rating, however, I have come across series or authors whose different works I've enjoyed on different levels. So, I'll be on the lookout for the rest. Every book tells another story, and every other story is of another couple. Who knows, maybe these guys didn't do it for me, but perhaps a love story between, say, a member of a different clan *cough*MacLeod*cough* and a headstrong woman might interest me more.
*Arc provided by publisher
The point of this three lined introduction is that I thought the cover guy of this book looked pretty similar to the famous-and very nice- tennis player Roger Federer. Can anyone else see the similarity? Or is it just me, and my mom and sister are right? Anyway, that was why this book struck me while I was looking for my next read.
Who doesn't love a story about Highlanders? Not me. The idea of men in kilts and the possibility of wink wink at the quick lift of said kilt is pretty attractive to me. I mean, think of all the naughty! And so I try not to ever say 'no' to any Highlander stories. Enter, the story of our hero and heroine, Gahan and Moira.
Moira is the poor good natured young woman who's forced to marry a man twice-or perhaps even thrice- her age just so her evil half brother can unite with the groom's army to defeat his enemy who happens to be our hero's father. Moira was hell bent on doing her duty to her people, and reading her parts, her desperation on the face of her marriage was a challenge. It made me so angry that she faced such a situation, and I expected some kind of reaction from her also. I may be a die hard romantic, but for the sake of the story, I could well do with some realistic situations. I did, however, expect more from Moira. As a reader, I had the privilege of being inside her head, peeking into her innermost thoughts and emotions, but what did I find there? Not much. Apart from her fear of marrying a man old enough to be her grandfather, her fear of her psychotic brother, and her sense of what I can only call an automatic responsibility towards her people were the only things in there.
The villains had more personality reflected than the hero and the heroine. In fact, all the characters except for the two, I'm sad to say, had more personality shining through the book. I loved to hate the slightly insane evil Bari and his equally evil sister Sandra, yet failed to love Moira and Gahan with the same intensity. And their love felt more like love at first fuck-pardon my French. It seemed like all they did was sneak around to find an opportunity for a tumble in the sheets, and how they found a way and the time to fall in love? Beats me. Actually, would anyone judge me if I said, for all their villainous ways and insanity, I liked the evil brother sister duo better? At least they stood their ground, and their intentions and reasoning for whatever they did was definitely much clearer.
Other than the bad gang, I liked the supporting good guys. I haven't read any other books from this series but I liked some of Gahan's half brothers, and I can say I'm actually looking forward to reading stories for a few of them. I think after I finished writing this, I might go see who's already got a book and who has not.
Since we're still somewhat on the subject of couples, I can't say I appreciated the way Gahan and Moira's relationship began. I know I said I didn't much like the way it went on but the start wasn't complementary towards Moira either. Call me a cliche lover-or I might lack the knowledge of the ways of the Highlanders- but I do like my romance a little on the side of the usual. I don't necessarily mean they see each other, they fall in love, get married and live happily ever after, they don't even have to be each other's first love or marriage, no, but in a time where a couple show the soiled sheet on their first night as husband and wife, I don't particularly appreciate the son of a laird taking the wife of another man-albeit the marriage being unconsummated.
In the end, I can't really say Moira handled her Highlander that well, and all of this seems to have pointed me towards a low rating, however, I have come across series or authors whose different works I've enjoyed on different levels. So, I'll be on the lookout for the rest. Every book tells another story, and every other story is of another couple. Who knows, maybe these guys didn't do it for me, but perhaps a love story between, say, a member of a different clan *cough*MacLeod*cough* and a headstrong woman might interest me more.
*Arc provided by publisher
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