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MacEgan Brothers #3
Her Irish Warrior
Genevieve de Renalt "must" escape her betrothed, even if that means putting her trust in the hands of the enemy!
Irish warrior Bevan MacEgan cannot leave a lady in danger, but how far will he go to keep her safe? Marriage would benefit them both, yet he has sworn never to love again.
Proud and strong, he keeps Genevieve at a distance but, as she begins to melt his heart, a shocking discovery forces Bevan to make a choicea choice that could mean losing her forever!"
Irish warrior Bevan MacEgan cannot leave a lady in danger, but how far will he go to keep her safe? Marriage would benefit them both, yet he has sworn never to love again.
Proud and strong, he keeps Genevieve at a distance but, as she begins to melt his heart, a shocking discovery forces Bevan to make a choicea choice that could mean losing her forever!"
304 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2007
36 people are currently reading
621 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Willingham
188 books620 followersRita® Award Finalist Michelle Willingham has published over fifty books and novellas. Currently, she lives in Virginia with her family and is working on more historical romance novels. When she's not writing, Michelle enjoys baking, playing the piano, and avoiding exercise at all costs. Visit her website at: www.michellewillingham.com or interact with her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/michellewillinghamfans.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
April 16, 2011
I felt as though I traveled back to medieval Ireland when I read this book, which is definitely a plus for this history buff. Ireland in the Norman conquest is an under-utilized setting. I felt as though I learned some things about the ancient Irish, which is always good, especially when the lesson comes in an enjoyable story.
Storyline:
Bevan is a man who lost much of what he loved in his life. His beloved daughter dead from fever, and his wife burned to death in a Norman raid. And his land appropriated by some of the Norman invaders. He is determined to take his keep and lands back, and that’s how he meets Genevieve. Genevieve is on the run from her betrothed, a man who beats and abuses her physically. She has smuggled missives back to her father in England, but she can’t wait any longer to be rescued, sure that Hugh will kill her or rape her soon. She begs the rough-looking Irish warrior she encounters to save her, but he walks away (he is afraid he will endanger his mission and his men). Later on, he breaks into the keep (having determined he will help the woman), and is captured. Genevieve helps to free him, and gets a beating from her betrothed for her trouble, which Bevan reacts to by beating up Sir Hugh. Her only choice is to flee with the Irish warrior.
Bevan has no desire for another woman, even one as beautiful and as brave as Genevieve, although she is one of the hated Normans. He buried his heart with his beloved wife Fiona, and he is determined to remain true to her. But he cannot stand to see a woman be beaten. Bevan asserts that no honorable Irishman would lay a hand on a woman, and it’s just another reason to despise the Normans. He offers her safe passage back to England to her parents, although Genevieve fears that Bevan will fight against her father and his men, for the keep that is now her dowry.
Bevan is the brother of one of the kings of Ireland. There is a high king and smaller kings (probably what would be considered a duke or lesser peer in England). His brother, King Patrick, has determined to make a marriage alliance with Genevieve’s family. Bevan ends up between a rock and a hard place, especially when England’s King Henry and the High King of Ireland agree to the match. Either that or the evil Sir Hugh will gain his lands and Genevieve as his wife, and will surely kill her with his brutality. Genevieve agrees to the marriage, even knowing that Bevan cannot love her the way she wishes, and does not want a real marriage with her, only the alliance. However, Bevan cannot keep her heart closed to the loving, courageous woman he married.
My thoughts on this story:
I had mixed feelings about Bevan. He was a very honorable man, capable of loving very deeply. I truly respected his faithfulness to his wife. You don’t see that many heroes who remain devoted to their departed spouses the way he does. However, I wish he hadn’t taken so long to open his heart to Genevieve. It’s clear that she is a really good woman for him, and his younger brother Ewan actually thinks she’s more devoted and loves him more than Fiona ever did. This is one of those books where the character has this false perfect image of their past spouse that the hero or heroine has to break past. It made me sad how Bevan hurt Genevieve again and again by pushing her away. Initially, Genevieve is afraid of men after how Hugh beat her and hurt her, but Bevan is kind and takes care of her so well, that he works his way into her heart. Now Genevieve has to break down the walls around Bevan’s heart, and show him that he can love again.
This was a good book. I found myself sucked in from the beginning. Genevieve and Bevan had excellent chemistry. I found Hugh to be a despicable villain, and I wanted him to get his just deserts, after seeing him beating and hurting Genevieve the way he did. I was afraid that her father would take Hugh’s side, but fortunately, he didn’t, standing by his daughter and believing her when she said Hugh was abusing her. I can’t imagine a father who would willingly let his daughter get abused by a man, so I was glad Genevieve’s father wasn’t like that.
I enjoyed this book. I liked reading about medieval Ireland, which had some customs and ways of looking at things that were distinct from England at this time. I liked both of the characters. The romance between Genevieve and Bevan was engaging, and I felt their emotional struggles and anguish. It was good to see Bevan grow to acknowledge his feelings for Genevieve and make those gestures she badly needed. He had to learn that his love for Fiona didn’t have to close his heart to loving again. I’m looking forward to reading about the other MacEgan brothers, particularly Ewan. I have a feeling he’s going to grow up to be quite a warrior. It should be interesting to see the woman he ends up with.
Storyline:
Bevan is a man who lost much of what he loved in his life. His beloved daughter dead from fever, and his wife burned to death in a Norman raid. And his land appropriated by some of the Norman invaders. He is determined to take his keep and lands back, and that’s how he meets Genevieve. Genevieve is on the run from her betrothed, a man who beats and abuses her physically. She has smuggled missives back to her father in England, but she can’t wait any longer to be rescued, sure that Hugh will kill her or rape her soon. She begs the rough-looking Irish warrior she encounters to save her, but he walks away (he is afraid he will endanger his mission and his men). Later on, he breaks into the keep (having determined he will help the woman), and is captured. Genevieve helps to free him, and gets a beating from her betrothed for her trouble, which Bevan reacts to by beating up Sir Hugh. Her only choice is to flee with the Irish warrior.
Bevan has no desire for another woman, even one as beautiful and as brave as Genevieve, although she is one of the hated Normans. He buried his heart with his beloved wife Fiona, and he is determined to remain true to her. But he cannot stand to see a woman be beaten. Bevan asserts that no honorable Irishman would lay a hand on a woman, and it’s just another reason to despise the Normans. He offers her safe passage back to England to her parents, although Genevieve fears that Bevan will fight against her father and his men, for the keep that is now her dowry.
Bevan is the brother of one of the kings of Ireland. There is a high king and smaller kings (probably what would be considered a duke or lesser peer in England). His brother, King Patrick, has determined to make a marriage alliance with Genevieve’s family. Bevan ends up between a rock and a hard place, especially when England’s King Henry and the High King of Ireland agree to the match. Either that or the evil Sir Hugh will gain his lands and Genevieve as his wife, and will surely kill her with his brutality. Genevieve agrees to the marriage, even knowing that Bevan cannot love her the way she wishes, and does not want a real marriage with her, only the alliance. However, Bevan cannot keep her heart closed to the loving, courageous woman he married.
My thoughts on this story:
I had mixed feelings about Bevan. He was a very honorable man, capable of loving very deeply. I truly respected his faithfulness to his wife. You don’t see that many heroes who remain devoted to their departed spouses the way he does. However, I wish he hadn’t taken so long to open his heart to Genevieve. It’s clear that she is a really good woman for him, and his younger brother Ewan actually thinks she’s more devoted and loves him more than Fiona ever did. This is one of those books where the character has this false perfect image of their past spouse that the hero or heroine has to break past. It made me sad how Bevan hurt Genevieve again and again by pushing her away. Initially, Genevieve is afraid of men after how Hugh beat her and hurt her, but Bevan is kind and takes care of her so well, that he works his way into her heart. Now Genevieve has to break down the walls around Bevan’s heart, and show him that he can love again.
This was a good book. I found myself sucked in from the beginning. Genevieve and Bevan had excellent chemistry. I found Hugh to be a despicable villain, and I wanted him to get his just deserts, after seeing him beating and hurting Genevieve the way he did. I was afraid that her father would take Hugh’s side, but fortunately, he didn’t, standing by his daughter and believing her when she said Hugh was abusing her. I can’t imagine a father who would willingly let his daughter get abused by a man, so I was glad Genevieve’s father wasn’t like that.
I enjoyed this book. I liked reading about medieval Ireland, which had some customs and ways of looking at things that were distinct from England at this time. I liked both of the characters. The romance between Genevieve and Bevan was engaging, and I felt their emotional struggles and anguish. It was good to see Bevan grow to acknowledge his feelings for Genevieve and make those gestures she badly needed. He had to learn that his love for Fiona didn’t have to close his heart to loving again. I’m looking forward to reading about the other MacEgan brothers, particularly Ewan. I have a feeling he’s going to grow up to be quite a warrior. It should be interesting to see the woman he ends up with.
May 17, 2016
No. Nope.
The H was so freaking cold towards the h until the very end, probably for 95% of the story.
Then, he finds out his ex-wife is alive and leaves the h to go find her. He even tells her that their marriage is not legal and she should go back to her parents. What an ass!
Sorry but the H is such a disappointment.
The H was so freaking cold towards the h until the very end, probably for 95% of the story.
Then, he finds out his ex-wife is alive and leaves the h to go find her. He even tells her that their marriage is not legal and she should go back to her parents. What an ass!
Sorry but the H is such a disappointment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 6, 2025
Genevieve needs to escape her abusive betrothed. Bevan cannot leave a lady in distress.
Lots happening in this story.
Genevieve find the strength to overcome the abuse, and to trust Bevan to help her.
Lots happening in this story.
Genevieve find the strength to overcome the abuse, and to trust Bevan to help her.
November 22, 2015
My Review
I really enjoyed this book! Bevan MacEgan is a wonderful character, though I wanted to smack him upside the head when he wouldn’t let go of the memory of his dead wife, Fiona, who was killed during a Norman attack. But it was refreshing to see a man remain faithful to his beloved and not fall instantly in love with the story's heroine. He fought his feelings for Genevieve - feelings he never expected to have for a woman again, which made him mourn Fiona's death all the more. By giving into his emotions and feeling for Genevieve, he somehow felt he was betraying Fiona.
Genevieve de Renault was also a splendid character when she finally stopped being wimpy and fought for her man. I appreciated her strength and determination to do what was best for the Irish and the Normans, and at the same time stay true to herself.
The storyline was really good, full of action, adventure, loving family ties and a happily ever after that left me smiling. I’d say this is my favorite of the MacEgan Brothers’ series, so far.
I really enjoyed this book! Bevan MacEgan is a wonderful character, though I wanted to smack him upside the head when he wouldn’t let go of the memory of his dead wife, Fiona, who was killed during a Norman attack. But it was refreshing to see a man remain faithful to his beloved and not fall instantly in love with the story's heroine. He fought his feelings for Genevieve - feelings he never expected to have for a woman again, which made him mourn Fiona's death all the more. By giving into his emotions and feeling for Genevieve, he somehow felt he was betraying Fiona.
Genevieve de Renault was also a splendid character when she finally stopped being wimpy and fought for her man. I appreciated her strength and determination to do what was best for the Irish and the Normans, and at the same time stay true to herself.
The storyline was really good, full of action, adventure, loving family ties and a happily ever after that left me smiling. I’d say this is my favorite of the MacEgan Brothers’ series, so far.
October 22, 2019
When Bevan MacEgan's beloved wife and daughter died, he swore he'd never marry again adn remain faithful to his wife's memory. While attempting to gain back his land, Bevan is taken prisoner by Hugh Marstowe, a Norman lord betrothed to the daughter of the Norman who now controls Bevan's land. He sees Hugh beating and abusing his betrothed, Genevieve, and can't stand it. When she offers to rescue him if she can escape with him, he accepts, willing to protect even the hated Norman enemy. Initially, it seems she'll return to England to be with her family. But Genevieve's dowry is the land that Bevan wants returned to him and Genevieve insists that if she returns to her parents, Hugh will find a way to get to her. The only solution, it seems, is marriage. The High King and Genevieve's father agree and Bevan is coerced into marrying a woman he's coming to love and is definitely attracted to, but from whom he needs to maintain his distance if he's to keep his vow. Genevieve wants Bevan's heart, not his attachment to a dead wife. But what can she do?
This was a good, solid story. I typically don't like romances where the main character pines for and constantly thinks of a formerly living beloved, because it makes me think of the other main lead as only second best. Fortunately, this story throws a wrench in the works that really takes care of that (and which I didn't see coming). There is pretty much no doubt by the end of this that Genevieve is Bevan's first choice, but I really like that she didn't let him off the hook once she thought he'd made his choice...that she made him state it clearly. That being said, Bevan still did spend way too much of this book thinking of the lovely Fiona instead of Genevieve...and his reasons for treating her like crap for a good part of the story were a mishmash - she was Norman, she was attractive and tempting, she "owned" his land, she was causing him to forget Fiona, etc. There was an awful lot of him rejecting her and sending mixed signals and being overall hot and cold with the heroine. This author's heroes have PMS worse than I do. But I did enjoy this on the whole and will likely be continuing the series.
This was a good, solid story. I typically don't like romances where the main character pines for and constantly thinks of a formerly living beloved, because it makes me think of the other main lead as only second best. Fortunately, this story throws a wrench in the works that really takes care of that (and which I didn't see coming). There is pretty much no doubt by the end of this that Genevieve is Bevan's first choice, but I really like that she didn't let him off the hook once she thought he'd made his choice...that she made him state it clearly. That being said, Bevan still did spend way too much of this book thinking of the lovely Fiona instead of Genevieve...and his reasons for treating her like crap for a good part of the story were a mishmash - she was Norman, she was attractive and tempting, she "owned" his land, she was causing him to forget Fiona, etc. There was an awful lot of him rejecting her and sending mixed signals and being overall hot and cold with the heroine. This author's heroes have PMS worse than I do. But I did enjoy this on the whole and will likely be continuing the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2016
I really want to give this book a one star rating, because the more I read on, the more I disliked the lead characters Bevan and Genevieve.
The book itself is not bad. The tension held on well for the first 60%. Bevan, a widower, was frustrating as the hero. His obsession over his first wife Fiona really bothered me. I am rarely bothered by assholey or boorish behaviors of men in romance stories. Most of the time their actions speak louder than words. As long as I can be convinced of their true feelings, it matters not to me what they say, even if they say really outrageous things.
But Bevan oh Bevan I wanted to kick him. I don't know why Michelle Willingham wrote him this way. This guy is so obviously not over his first wife. If you want to have a widower as a hero, he has to be at least like Sir Ross Cannon in Lady Sophia's Lover. He doesn't need to have an unhappy first marriage, but I find it distasteful how Bevan held on to Fiona's memories and held them against Genevieve.
And Genevieve, I have nothing against her character. But I also wanted to kick her because, woman, can you not see that this man is still grieving his wife? Why would you want to "win his heart"? If you have to "win" him, you are the loser. Matters of the heart are like this. It either happens or does not happen. As I read on I became more and more furious at Genevieve. Can you not think of other people's pains except for your desires and longings? If he chose to live in the past, what right do you have to tell him otherwise? Genevieve married Bevan, promising that they would live separate lives. Then she changed her mind, all of a sudden. No no why wouldn't Bevan love her? She was jealous but at the same time oh she could not help but want him. I don't know how to describe my disgust. Take it or leave it, woman. You made your bed, now lie in it. All the useless whining is humiliating.
And the plots. Man I did not see that coming.
I mean their actions just don't make sense to me. Why would Genevieve tolerate Bevan's obsession over Fiona and why would Bevan held on to Fiona for as long as he did? It was infuriating to say the least.
I really must mention another fact that bothered me about Genevieve. Bevan refused to consummate the marriage because he vowed to remain faithful to Fiona. So what does our Genevieve do? She went around holding babies and looking at them longing for one for her own. I mean the sentiment is easily understood, but woman, have you not chosen this yourself? What is the point of lamenting something of your own doing? If anything, Bevan did not bring this on you. You did this to yourself, to want love from a man who cannot love you.
Ah I wanted to give this book 3 stars. But after writing this review I despised the lead characters too much. It really is a shame because the story was interesting itself. Alas, I find Bevan and Genevieve 2 outrageously unlikable characters. I truly dislike both of them. Bevan's brothers though seem much more tolerable. I shall move on from Bevan and Genevieve. Rarely do I encounter a couple like them in romance stories. I had a mind to break their fictional necks.
The book itself is not bad. The tension held on well for the first 60%. Bevan, a widower, was frustrating as the hero. His obsession over his first wife Fiona really bothered me. I am rarely bothered by assholey or boorish behaviors of men in romance stories. Most of the time their actions speak louder than words. As long as I can be convinced of their true feelings, it matters not to me what they say, even if they say really outrageous things.
But Bevan oh Bevan I wanted to kick him. I don't know why Michelle Willingham wrote him this way. This guy is so obviously not over his first wife. If you want to have a widower as a hero, he has to be at least like Sir Ross Cannon in Lady Sophia's Lover. He doesn't need to have an unhappy first marriage, but I find it distasteful how Bevan held on to Fiona's memories and held them against Genevieve.
And Genevieve, I have nothing against her character. But I also wanted to kick her because, woman, can you not see that this man is still grieving his wife? Why would you want to "win his heart"? If you have to "win" him, you are the loser. Matters of the heart are like this. It either happens or does not happen. As I read on I became more and more furious at Genevieve. Can you not think of other people's pains except for your desires and longings? If he chose to live in the past, what right do you have to tell him otherwise? Genevieve married Bevan, promising that they would live separate lives. Then she changed her mind, all of a sudden. No no why wouldn't Bevan love her? She was jealous but at the same time oh she could not help but want him. I don't know how to describe my disgust. Take it or leave it, woman. You made your bed, now lie in it. All the useless whining is humiliating.
And the plots. Man I did not see that coming.
I mean their actions just don't make sense to me. Why would Genevieve tolerate Bevan's obsession over Fiona and why would Bevan held on to Fiona for as long as he did? It was infuriating to say the least.
I really must mention another fact that bothered me about Genevieve. Bevan refused to consummate the marriage because he vowed to remain faithful to Fiona. So what does our Genevieve do? She went around holding babies and looking at them longing for one for her own. I mean the sentiment is easily understood, but woman, have you not chosen this yourself? What is the point of lamenting something of your own doing? If anything, Bevan did not bring this on you. You did this to yourself, to want love from a man who cannot love you.
Ah I wanted to give this book 3 stars. But after writing this review I despised the lead characters too much. It really is a shame because the story was interesting itself. Alas, I find Bevan and Genevieve 2 outrageously unlikable characters. I truly dislike both of them. Bevan's brothers though seem much more tolerable. I shall move on from Bevan and Genevieve. Rarely do I encounter a couple like them in romance stories. I had a mind to break their fictional necks.
December 5, 2008
Michelle Willingham’s debut novel for Harlequin Historicals is a passionate tale of divided loyalties and a fierce battle for daily existence. The novel is set in the aftermath of the Norman Conquest and explores the hatred that existed between the Norman conquerors and the native Irish who did everything in their power to repel the invaders. Into this backdrop is woven a story of romance between Bevan, the Irish hero, who is a tough and battle-scarred warrior and Genevieve, a Norman lady whose impending marriage to a cruel Norman lord must be averted at all costs.
Michelle Willingham has a great grasp of character and her skills really show as the story progresses. Bevan is an authentic hero and remains a tough, violent man throughout the story, thus making his character more believable than if he had developed a soft side halfway through. Genevieve is an equally strong character, but one who is constrained by the lack of equality for women during the period this is set. Readers will immediately empathise with her plight and be backing her from the offset.
The windswept locales are engaging and the story is interspersed with bloody battles and fighting that serves as a reminder of the violence and lawlessness of the day. Michelle Willingham does well to put across a feel of the mortality and uncertainty surrounding one’s fate on a daily basis. There are also some great supporting characters, including the ruthless villain Hugh Marstowe and Bevan’s younger brother, Ewan, who is thoroughly sympathetic. All said and done, His Irish Warrior is a solid read, a great debut and an all-round good story.
Michelle Willingham has a great grasp of character and her skills really show as the story progresses. Bevan is an authentic hero and remains a tough, violent man throughout the story, thus making his character more believable than if he had developed a soft side halfway through. Genevieve is an equally strong character, but one who is constrained by the lack of equality for women during the period this is set. Readers will immediately empathise with her plight and be backing her from the offset.
The windswept locales are engaging and the story is interspersed with bloody battles and fighting that serves as a reminder of the violence and lawlessness of the day. Michelle Willingham does well to put across a feel of the mortality and uncertainty surrounding one’s fate on a daily basis. There are also some great supporting characters, including the ruthless villain Hugh Marstowe and Bevan’s younger brother, Ewan, who is thoroughly sympathetic. All said and done, His Irish Warrior is a solid read, a great debut and an all-round good story.
November 19, 2023
This was very much underwhelming. Well over the first half was about talking and travelling and sending messages and negotiating without a hint of actual romantic tension. I had no problem putting it down and forgetting about it for months which I usually never do.
And when they finally got married, Bevan was still way too hung up on his first wife. Which could've been okay since he loved her and he and Genevieve agreed on a marriage on paper only anyway, but stubbornly wanting to remain faithful to his dead wife when he really desires his second is kinda foolish.
And then came that twist that showed him to be a total idiot.
So yeah, the beginning and middle were very slow and the ending was just full of stupidity. Bevan was stupid, and Genevieve was stupid, but he was even more stupid. Disappointing.
And when they finally got married, Bevan was still way too hung up on his first wife. Which could've been okay since he loved her and he and Genevieve agreed on a marriage on paper only anyway, but stubbornly wanting to remain faithful to his dead wife when he really desires his second is kinda foolish.
And then came that twist that showed him to be a total idiot.
So yeah, the beginning and middle were very slow and the ending was just full of stupidity. Bevan was stupid, and Genevieve was stupid, but he was even more stupid. Disappointing.
April 13, 2009
To look for a great review for this superb debut novel "HER IRISH WARRIOR" by MICHELLE WILLINGHAM look to the review done by GRAHAM in December of 2008. He sums up beautifully the heart and soul of this book.
There is nothing I can add other than my own opinion. This is a fantastic novel and even more so due to the fact that is was Willingham's debut. Usually IMHO it takes a few books to warm up, for the author to find their voice and flow with a consistent writing style, this is not the case with HER IRISH WARRIOR. From the start in flowed beautifully and and it kept the momentum going. Is it the best historical romance book ever? No, however it is a TERRIFIC read and I feel given time to develop more as a writer I think Willingham will be a strong voice in the world of great Historical Fiction/Historical Romance.
There is nothing I can add other than my own opinion. This is a fantastic novel and even more so due to the fact that is was Willingham's debut. Usually IMHO it takes a few books to warm up, for the author to find their voice and flow with a consistent writing style, this is not the case with HER IRISH WARRIOR. From the start in flowed beautifully and and it kept the momentum going. Is it the best historical romance book ever? No, however it is a TERRIFIC read and I feel given time to develop more as a writer I think Willingham will be a strong voice in the world of great Historical Fiction/Historical Romance.
March 3, 2012
4 ½ Stars! ~~~ What is it about a tortured hero that is so appealing? This is Bevan's story and he's plagued by guilt that he had been unable to protect his wife from the raiding Normans. He's vowed never to wed or bed another woman and this vow tortures him when he rescues Genevieve from her brutal betrothed. Wedding her himself is not what he desires, however it is the only way to return his lands to his ownership and to see that she is safe from harm. A delicious lovestory! I loved how Genevieve captures his heart!
May 17, 2009
Well written H/R I liked the characters both the Hero and the Heroine. The hero stayed true to his person throughout the book didn't all of a sudden think "Gee I love her now I am a new man!" which was real and refreshing for a romance!
March 29, 2011
About a women who's fiance is abusing her. She asks a stranger to help her. At first it seems he won't, but later he shows up and that's when things start getting interesting. Takes place in Ireland. There is a twist at the end I kind of wished didn't happen, but otherwise loved it.
December 29, 2017
Disappointing
My two stars is rounded up from a bare 1.5. There were a number of promising elements to the story (such as the emerging mystery surrounding Fiona's"death", and Ewan's desire to prove himself) but ultimately the writing was too clunky and the characters too flat for me to enjoy this book. I frequently had a sense of being disconnected from the characters' surroundings, and their actions seemed to jump around confusingly. There was no logical progression or buildup of tension in Bevan or Genevieve's feelings or actions. They seemed to change their minds and hearts seemingly at random. The first half of the book, before the Fiona conflict was introduced, was also almost unbearably boring, with no conflict, tension, or even interesting prose.
My two stars is rounded up from a bare 1.5. There were a number of promising elements to the story (such as the emerging mystery surrounding Fiona's"death", and Ewan's desire to prove himself) but ultimately the writing was too clunky and the characters too flat for me to enjoy this book. I frequently had a sense of being disconnected from the characters' surroundings, and their actions seemed to jump around confusingly. There was no logical progression or buildup of tension in Bevan or Genevieve's feelings or actions. They seemed to change their minds and hearts seemingly at random. The first half of the book, before the Fiona conflict was introduced, was also almost unbearably boring, with no conflict, tension, or even interesting prose.
June 3, 2020
(Explícito). No me gustó, así de sencillo. Hay muchos altos y bajos para mi gusto, aunque tomando en cuenta la época del libro, siguió sin parecerme entretenida. Lo único que me gustó un poco fue el final y el epílogo. ... narrado en tercera persona y ofrece varios puntos de vista de los personajes. ambos debían de superar o enfrentarse a su pasado, pero no hablaban entre ellos para ayudarse; Fiona es un personaje que no me gustó.
April 27, 2022
This book takes place in 12th century Ireland, and I must say, with my studies, I have a bit of a soft spot for this book, even if the history isn't perfect. All in all, this is an enjoyable book. A bit corny in places, not all that historically accurate, but fun and emotionally satisfying nonetheless. The relationship between Bevan and Genevieve is convincing and sweet, and who can't love a troubled warrior? Not a perfect book, by any means, but thoroughly entertaining.
June 9, 2022
ellen and i picked out this book last summer at the dayton dollar book swap bc i was curious about mass market paperback romances and i didn’t want to go up to the cash register with a shirtless cowboy on the cover lmao
i finally got around to reading this and honestly? it wasn’t that bad! it had a lot of historical stuff which made it fun and all the characters were interesting. the plot twist was hella predictable but i wasn’t really reading it to be surprised u know? lol
i finally got around to reading this and honestly? it wasn’t that bad! it had a lot of historical stuff which made it fun and all the characters were interesting. the plot twist was hella predictable but i wasn’t really reading it to be surprised u know? lol
August 9, 2021
The challenges that I thought would be big, with lots of tension and suspense, were quickly and neatly dealt with, and the challenges that I thought would be small or dealt with in a more ... realistic manner (through time and getting to know the other person) were resurrected as completely different (random, even?) challenges, which then also neatly died away. Although these latter challenges caught me unawares, which is generally good for a story, it felt like a bunch of plots forced into one story. I felt the action parts to be short and far between and the dawdling about and musings to be prevalent, which slowed the story and were somewhat annoying. As such, I felt the overall story lacked balance, timing, and priority.
February 7, 2025
Una novela que, tras un comienzo un poco lento, me enganchó hasta el final.
Una trama con gran contexto histórico de la Irlanda en la época de la ocupación normanda que reflexiona sobre lo difícil que es deshacerse de los miedos y las culpas del pasado, darse una nueva oportunidad para empezar otra vez.
Una trama con gran contexto histórico de la Irlanda en la época de la ocupación normanda que reflexiona sobre lo difícil que es deshacerse de los miedos y las culpas del pasado, darse una nueva oportunidad para empezar otra vez.
June 17, 2017
Me mantengo leyendo estos libros, siempre y cuando sean de vikingos o irlandeses, porque siento que aprendo algo nuevo de la cultura, y algún día me gustaría escribir una novela histórica con estas culturas
April 10, 2025
Her Irish Warrior
This was a different story. It had a surprise at the end. I figured Fiona was alive. But I was surprised that his daughter was alive. Fiona lied to him and said she died. I was glad Fiona was not alive. Guilt took her in the end.
This was a different story. It had a surprise at the end. I figured Fiona was alive. But I was surprised that his daughter was alive. Fiona lied to him and said she died. I was glad Fiona was not alive. Guilt took her in the end.
September 18, 2018
Good read
Enjoyed this book. Liked the characters and story line. I started with this book because it was a free read. May read another of her books.
Enjoyed this book. Liked the characters and story line. I started with this book because it was a free read. May read another of her books.
July 13, 2020
Pretty good. Wish I had read the book series in order. Will read more by this author.
March 22, 2017
frustrated cause looked at dates in front of book so read them in order and this one said 2008 and the other 2 2007. So I started the others first then turns out should have read this one first
August 4, 2016
This was a good story - it was very entertaining - however, I had many issues with it (mainly the two main characters) that made me dislike it a lot from time to time.
At first, Genevieve and Bevan seemed like good, strong characters that I'd eventually come to really appreciate, but it seemed that their general attitudes towards things just really irritated me.
I hate it when characters go into something knowing what they should expect, but then react too strongly when it doesn't go the way they wanted it to go. This was Genevieve.
Bevan, while I understood his grief for his former wife, was utterly stupid during the last part of this novel.
Despite the characters, the story was enjoyable. I mean that looking at the story as a whole instead of just the main character's stories was entertaining and was what got me through it.
At first, Genevieve and Bevan seemed like good, strong characters that I'd eventually come to really appreciate, but it seemed that their general attitudes towards things just really irritated me.
I hate it when characters go into something knowing what they should expect, but then react too strongly when it doesn't go the way they wanted it to go. This was Genevieve.
Bevan, while I understood his grief for his former wife, was utterly stupid during the last part of this novel.
Despite the characters, the story was enjoyable. I mean that looking at the story as a whole instead of just the main character's stories was entertaining and was what got me through it.
July 2, 2012
I have been wanting to read the MacEgan series for so so long but have experienced difficulty in getting my hands on them here in Australia. Thanks to a wonderful friend they have finally come my way and I am currently working my way through this series....or I should say devouring this series.
Michelle Willingham is a favourite author of mine and I always love her stories. The MacEgan series in set in Ireland of which I've not read a lot about. Mostly I read historical romances set in Scotland, so it was a nice change for me. Also set in a time period I love, the early 1100's, which I haven't had a lot of that time period coming my way recently.
This is a great story...I will say that at times I wished I could get my hands on Bevan and slap him silly to make him realise the treasure he had right in front of him. If I was Genevieve I would have given up on him.
I won't give away any spoilers but I was left hanging until the end not knowing which way this story would go.
If you're a fan of historical medieval romances then I would highly recommend this series.
Michelle Willingham is a favourite author of mine and I always love her stories. The MacEgan series in set in Ireland of which I've not read a lot about. Mostly I read historical romances set in Scotland, so it was a nice change for me. Also set in a time period I love, the early 1100's, which I haven't had a lot of that time period coming my way recently.
This is a great story...I will say that at times I wished I could get my hands on Bevan and slap him silly to make him realise the treasure he had right in front of him. If I was Genevieve I would have given up on him.
I won't give away any spoilers but I was left hanging until the end not knowing which way this story would go.
If you're a fan of historical medieval romances then I would highly recommend this series.
January 10, 2013
On reste dans le même registre que le tome précédent, un amour contrarié, car les deux héros sont ennemis, et un rapprochement qui se fait pour des raisons autres que l'amour à la base. L'histoire est plutôt sympathique, avec des personnages qui ont des blessures très dures dans leur chair, mais je n'ai pas été plus emportée que ça. Alors peut-être l'époque de l'histoire joue un rôle dans cela, car elle se passe dans les années 1100 et je dois dire que le côté "amour courtois" n'est pas franchement ma tasse de thé. Leur histoire manque de piquant et de passion! L'héroïne est trop pliée à ses devoirs et pas assez passionnée, et le héros a quelques réactions des plus étonnantes à cause d'un sens de l'honneur excessif.
Bref, c'est une romance pour celles qui aiment les histoires d'amour du Moyen-Âge qui mêlent honneur, devoir et droiture. Celles qui recherchent des histoires passionnées avec des héros qui tentent de sortir des diktats de leur époque... lisez autre chose.
Bref, c'est une romance pour celles qui aiment les histoires d'amour du Moyen-Âge qui mêlent honneur, devoir et droiture. Celles qui recherchent des histoires passionnées avec des héros qui tentent de sortir des diktats de leur époque... lisez autre chose.
January 16, 2016
For my #15 challenge ('W' For Winter), I read Her Irish Warrior by Michelle Willingham. Genevieve de Renalt must escape her abusive betrothed, even if it means putting her trust in the hands of the enemy. Irish warrior Bevan MacEgan has sworn to fight the Norman enemy and regain his castle Rionallis after he had witnessed the death of his wife two years before.
When the attack of Rionallis goes awry, Bevan finds that he can't leave a Norman lady in danger, but how far will he go to keep her safe? Bevan had sworn to never love again, yet marriage would benefit them both. Genevieve begins to slowly break through to his heart. However, will a terrible secret break their hearts and will Bevan end up losing Genevieve forever? I give this historical romance a B+!
When the attack of Rionallis goes awry, Bevan finds that he can't leave a Norman lady in danger, but how far will he go to keep her safe? Bevan had sworn to never love again, yet marriage would benefit them both. Genevieve begins to slowly break through to his heart. However, will a terrible secret break their hearts and will Bevan end up losing Genevieve forever? I give this historical romance a B+!
October 2, 2009
Enjoyed this one, about an Irish warrior who leaves his lands undefended after the death of his first wife and has to marry a Norman woman in order to gain it back. Genevieve de Renault's father captures an empty fort and surrounding land, and it becomes part of her dowry. Her betrothal to Sir Hugh, however, turns sour as the Norman knight shows his true colors as a sadistic abuser. And so when the Irish Bevan returns to regain his lands and rescues her in the process, her enemy becomes much more than that.
February 9, 2012
With the MacEgan Brothers series, I either really love them, or am just kinda indifferent to them. This one, I loved. A tortured past for the man, betrayal and pain (both physical as well as mental) for the woman, and in the end, they are perfect to heal one another... Willingham's usual M.O.
And as per usual, it's cleverly spun into a story where the characters are clear, understandable, and ones that you sympathize with and root for all the way through.
And as per usual, it's cleverly spun into a story where the characters are clear, understandable, and ones that you sympathize with and root for all the way through.
June 17, 2014
Historical I return to again and again. This was released first, despite it saying it's book 3 in the order of the series.
I really enjoyed Bevan's love for his first wife, and the struggle with his evolving feelings for Genevieve. I thought this provided great tension throughout the book.
Willingham's writing is strong and poignant throughout, which makes it so enjoyable to keep re-reading.
Some of the minor characters were slightly annoying, however, even upon re-readings.
I really enjoyed Bevan's love for his first wife, and the struggle with his evolving feelings for Genevieve. I thought this provided great tension throughout the book.
Willingham's writing is strong and poignant throughout, which makes it so enjoyable to keep re-reading.
Some of the minor characters were slightly annoying, however, even upon re-readings.
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