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Lairds Of The Loch #2
The Knight's Temptress
DARING ESCAPE
Sir Ian Colquhoun has never feared danger. So when Lady Lachina MacFarlan is captured by a ruthless enemy, mounting a daring rescue seems only natural for the courageous knight. But once he has Lina safe in his arms, he sees that the prim young girl from his youth has grown into an alluring woman of extraordinary gifts. When circumstances force him to take her as his wife, the stakes-for her life and their growing love-rise even higher.
DANGEROUS DESIRE
Grateful for Ian's bravery, though wary of his recklessness, Lina agrees to his unexpected proposal. As the two begin to know each other as husband and wife, Lina realizes that she desires more than a passionate protector. But when evil threatens both her family and the knight she has come to love, the lady must take the greatest chance of all . . .
Sir Ian Colquhoun has never feared danger. So when Lady Lachina MacFarlan is captured by a ruthless enemy, mounting a daring rescue seems only natural for the courageous knight. But once he has Lina safe in his arms, he sees that the prim young girl from his youth has grown into an alluring woman of extraordinary gifts. When circumstances force him to take her as his wife, the stakes-for her life and their growing love-rise even higher.
DANGEROUS DESIRE
Grateful for Ian's bravery, though wary of his recklessness, Lina agrees to his unexpected proposal. As the two begin to know each other as husband and wife, Lina realizes that she desires more than a passionate protector. But when evil threatens both her family and the knight she has come to love, the lady must take the greatest chance of all . . .
432 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
24 people are currently reading
752 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Scott
172 books382 followersAmanda Scott, USA Today Bestselling Author and winner of Romance Writers of America’s RITA/Golden Medallion (LORD ABBERLEY'S NEMESIS) and Romantic Times’ Awards for Best Regency Author and Best Sensual Regency (RAVENWOOD'S LADY), Lifetime Achievement (2007) and Best Scottish Historical (BORDER MOONLIGHT, 2008), began writing on a dare from her husband. She has sold every manuscript she has written.
Amanda is a fourth-generation Californian, who was born and raised in Salinas and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in history from Mills College in Oakland. She did graduate work at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, specializing in British History, before obtaining her Master’s in History from California State University at San Jose. She now lives with her husband and son in northern California.
As a child, Amanda Scott was a model for O’Connor Moffatt in San Francisco (now Macy’s). She was also a Sputnik child, one of those selected after the satellite went up for one of California’s first programs for gifted children. She remained in that program through high school. After graduate school, she taught for the Salinas City School District for three years before marrying her husband, who was then a captain in the Air Force. They lived in Honolulu for a year, then in Papillion, Nebraska, for seven. Their son was born in Nebraska. They have lived in northern California since 1980.
Scott grew up in a family of lawyers, and is descended from a long line of them. Her father was a three-term District Attorney of Monterey County before his death in 1955 at age 36. Her grandfather was City Attorney of Salinas for 36 years after serving two terms as District Attorney, and two of her ancestors were State Supreme Court Justices (one in Missouri, the other the first Supreme Court Justice for the State of Arkansas). One brother, having carried on the Scott tradition in the Monterey County DA’s office, is now a judge. The other is an electrician in Knoxville, TN, and her sister is a teacher in the Sacramento area.
The women of Amanda Scott’s family have been no less successful than the men. Her mother was a child actress known as Baby Lowell, who performed all over the west coast and in Hollywood movies, and then was a dancer with the San Francisco Opera Ballet until her marriage. Her mother’s sister, Loretta Lowell, was also a child actress. She performed in the Our Gang comedies and in several Loretta Young movies before becoming one of the first women in the US Air Force. Scott's paternal grandmother was active in local and State politics and served as president of the California State PTA, and her maternal grandmother was a teacher (and stage mother) before working for Monterey County. The place of women in Scott’s family has always been a strong one. Though they married strong men, the women have, for generations, been well educated and encouraged to succeed at whatever they chose to do.
Amanda Scott’s first book was OMAHA CITY ARCHITECTURE, a coffee-table photo essay on the historical architecture of Omaha, written for Landmarks, Inc. under her married name as a Junior League project. Others took the photos; she did the research and wrote the text on an old Smith-Corona portable electric. She sold her first novel, THE FUGITIVE HEIRESS - likewise written on the battered Smith-Corona in 1980. Since then, she has sold many more books, but since the second one she has used a word processor and computer. Twenty-five of her novels are set in the English Regency period (1810-1820). Others are set in 15th-century England and 14th- through 18th-century Scotland, and three are contemporary romances. Many of her titles are currently available at bookstores and online.
Amanda is a fourth-generation Californian, who was born and raised in Salinas and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in history from Mills College in Oakland. She did graduate work at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, specializing in British History, before obtaining her Master’s in History from California State University at San Jose. She now lives with her husband and son in northern California.
As a child, Amanda Scott was a model for O’Connor Moffatt in San Francisco (now Macy’s). She was also a Sputnik child, one of those selected after the satellite went up for one of California’s first programs for gifted children. She remained in that program through high school. After graduate school, she taught for the Salinas City School District for three years before marrying her husband, who was then a captain in the Air Force. They lived in Honolulu for a year, then in Papillion, Nebraska, for seven. Their son was born in Nebraska. They have lived in northern California since 1980.
Scott grew up in a family of lawyers, and is descended from a long line of them. Her father was a three-term District Attorney of Monterey County before his death in 1955 at age 36. Her grandfather was City Attorney of Salinas for 36 years after serving two terms as District Attorney, and two of her ancestors were State Supreme Court Justices (one in Missouri, the other the first Supreme Court Justice for the State of Arkansas). One brother, having carried on the Scott tradition in the Monterey County DA’s office, is now a judge. The other is an electrician in Knoxville, TN, and her sister is a teacher in the Sacramento area.
The women of Amanda Scott’s family have been no less successful than the men. Her mother was a child actress known as Baby Lowell, who performed all over the west coast and in Hollywood movies, and then was a dancer with the San Francisco Opera Ballet until her marriage. Her mother’s sister, Loretta Lowell, was also a child actress. She performed in the Our Gang comedies and in several Loretta Young movies before becoming one of the first women in the US Air Force. Scott's paternal grandmother was active in local and State politics and served as president of the California State PTA, and her maternal grandmother was a teacher (and stage mother) before working for Monterey County. The place of women in Scott’s family has always been a strong one. Though they married strong men, the women have, for generations, been well educated and encouraged to succeed at whatever they chose to do.
Amanda Scott’s first book was OMAHA CITY ARCHITECTURE, a coffee-table photo essay on the historical architecture of Omaha, written for Landmarks, Inc. under her married name as a Junior League project. Others took the photos; she did the research and wrote the text on an old Smith-Corona portable electric. She sold her first novel, THE FUGITIVE HEIRESS - likewise written on the battered Smith-Corona in 1980. Since then, she has sold many more books, but since the second one she has used a word processor and computer. Twenty-five of her novels are set in the English Regency period (1810-1820). Others are set in 15th-century England and 14th- through 18th-century Scotland, and three are contemporary romances. Many of her titles are currently available at bookstores and online.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
March 13, 2014
I enjoyed this book more than the first one, but it was still rather dull for me. Lina wasn't a bad character at all, but Ian was a decent character until he married Lina, and Lizzie was annoying while she and Lina were captured. The relationship between Lina and Ian was great at the beginning. The flirtation was enjoyable. Then they got married and meh.
I really started having trouble keeping interested in the book near the end. The short sections that weren't annoying at the beginning were suddenly driving me nuts. I felt like I couldn't relax into the story.
I'll still read the third book but I don't know if I'll read Scottish romance again, or if I'll just find another author to do so with.
I really started having trouble keeping interested in the book near the end. The short sections that weren't annoying at the beginning were suddenly driving me nuts. I felt like I couldn't relax into the story.
I'll still read the third book but I don't know if I'll read Scottish romance again, or if I'll just find another author to do so with.
January 16, 2017
Let's be clear. That's 0 stars.
At the very start I knew this wasn't going to do it for me. I wished I had opened this at the bookstore, just scanned through and seen how the writing was. It was so prim and proper and hard to follow. I kept getting so lost and had no idea what they were talking about. It was equal parts their speech, with things like "ken fine" and "nowt."
and the author couldn't relate historical information like how battles and rebels' plans worked. I was so confused. Anytime anyone mentioned the rebel army and where Ian's castle was in relation to the rebels, I was lost. Add that to the fact that 100 names had been dumped out before the first chapter ended and I had no hope of ever understanding this book. Each page listed about a million different people. I had no chance of keeping up with anyone and so was completely lost as to who was talking and who they were talking about. Terrible storytelling to be sure.
Lizzie annoyed the crap out of me, and therefore Lachina did too, for letting her get away with her stunt and not reprimanding her more harshly. They had been warned by family, perhaps their dad or brother, not sure cuz I can't keep up with anyone, that rebels were in the area and it was dangerous to be there. So Lizzy, who apparently has fluff for brains, took off on her horse for a joy ride, not stopping or slowing when Lachina chased after her. She told Lizzy about the rebels, and even after they heard the sounds of approaching horses with weapons clanging, Lizzy was sure it was the nearby duchess or someone, or it could be family. Then, to make me even more aggravated, once they're captured, by rebels, the leader winks at them and Lizzy was blushing and enjoying the flirtation. Lachina was a complete dolt not making clear the gravity of the situation. She told her not to flirt with their captor, but then went on to say "Such men think they have only to smile at a woman to make her swoon at their feet, Liz. Doubtless they also imagine they can bend any lass to their ill-doings just as easily."
Yeah. I'm sure captors wouldn't hesitate to rape a woman, but if you want to say they'll bend them to their "ill-doings" then we'll go with that. How lame was that?
And I sensed a book coming for the stupid Lizzy who has no sense and the flirtatious captor. Won't be reading that. Bcuz I didn't even want to be reading this.
When Peter went to the castle to tell Mag, whoever that was, that the women had been captured, Ian actually remembered who Lachina was, from a brief glimpse he had of her 10 years ago. Um, really? That was 10 years ago? I had no idea 10 years had passed bcuz there was no sense of time passing in this book. It was awful storytelling. Nothing went together and it was a jumbled mess.
The use of the word "forebye," meaning however or besides, was so overdone it wasn't even funny. She used it at least once on every page. I had never heard of it before and regretted learning it. Their speech made me cringe.
"They rode hither and yon, just showing theirselves and their arms now and now. I saw nowt else save they ended at Dumbarton. When we reached the flatlands betwixt the castle..."
Ugh.
It is such a pet peeve of mine when authors use historically inaccurate phrases. "her train of thought." This is the 1400s, long before trains were invented, so how could that expression be out???
Lizzy, the spoiled brat, complained about her hair being in tangles and wanted someone to start a fire and bring them blankets. Guess she didn't understand she was captured. Yet, Lina said she had behaved fearlessly... I'll be the judge of that. I can't stand when authors tell me how to feel. If Lizzy is complaining and views being kidnapped as an adventure, she's a brainless dolt and fearless doesn't have anything to do with being an idiot.
What utter unrealistic garbage that mere hours or so after they're captured and before they've even had to spend one night of suffering, Ian managed to get into the castle and pose as a servant to bring them peat to burn. You have got to be kidding me. How about some pain and torture before they rescued? Because that's actually realistic. There was no buildup or tension bcuz the author doused it as quick as she could with a quick rescue operation, with no details either. We didn't even get to know how Ian managed the feat. It was kind of cute how she noticed him right away and as he turned his blue eyes met her and he asked if they'd hurt her. Then as he left he turned back and blew a kiss to her.
"Doucely now," "I'll see this chap outside yon gates the noo," and "Coo, I ken fine..." WTF is anybody saying?
Ian came off about as manly as a little girl when while hiding in the stables under straw tried to avoid being seen by Lizzy's brother, Patrick, and bought of a fawn drinking water and "lap-lapping." How utterly lame.
The author seemed to think having Ian stumble not once, not twice, but three times while going down the rope over the castle wall was a good idea. I was bored and just wanted to get on with things, so having him slip with his right foot, then with his left foot, and then have the rock crumble under him, was not action. It was a waste of time.
Dougal McPharlan, the flirty captor, went to crazy in a second. When he visited them in the cage he turned threatening and cruel, promising violence. Lizzy stupidly told him Alina's identity, and apparently his dad stole land or something from her dad. His dad wanted him to marry Lina or her sister Andrena. Lina was a total fool in pacifying him. She got a couple strong comments out, one of hem being "Have you lost the power of speech, sir?" when he just stared at her. "I think you would want a gey beautiful wife who thinks just as you do, sir. To satisfy your needs, she would also have to be obedient to your will in every way." And "I doubt that you would deal kindly with an unhappy wife, sir. You would just order her to happy. Lame. Lame. Lame.
Proving how stupid Lizzy really is, she doesn't know what Dougal was talking about when he said he'd enjoy their favors and let his men do so too. And Lina actually said "He speaks of sexual favors, Liz. The sort a husband enjoys from his wife in their bedchamber."
Doubt a lady would use the word sexual. And go ahead and describe it a little more.
Lizzy was a dumbass. There. This book inspired profanity so there it is. She actually said that she knew Dougal had been about to strike Lina but he stopped when she spoke quietly to him. So, it's okay if you're with a man that thinks it's okay to abuse women; you just have to be nice to him so he won't hit you? Wtf kind of dumbass logic is that? That's like telling women it's their fault that they made the man hit her, and she needs to be obedient so he won't. She encouraged Lina to speak quietly to him, talked on and on about him, how he was he most handsomest man she'd ever seen and how nice he was. And he wasn't mean that he hadn't fed them; he, like most men, didn't think about food...
Typo pg. 71 even suggesting and some of its residents possessed rich powers.
Lizzie made the comment that they were given soup with only barley and leeks in it and said it's a servant's fare, then when Lina said they can't get supplies easily Lizzy said she doesn't care what they eat as long as they do. Okayy.
Having Tur Meiloach be a magical place where people have powers to read ppls thoughts didn't fit.
Seen better days.
Typo Pg. 106 ..to the floor. You had best take the other portion now, Gorry, lest I forget later."
No quotation mark.
The style of the writing grated. Just as you're getting used to a scene, it ends. I hate books that are written like this. It's just a bunch of choppy, short scenes that keep ending before they should, which jolts you out of what you were reading.
Over 100 pages and they finally got out of that castle and I got to stop hearing about darning and mending clothes. Ugh.
Typo pg. 124 "When she paused expectantly, Lina sobered at once and shook her head.
It was ridiculous and so unrealistic that Ian could go in the castle, up the steps with all of those people coming and going, go back outside with both women in tow, unnoticed. It was explained away that no one was paying attention bcuz of the miserable weather. Yeah, I'm sure the rain had all those trained men at their jobs suddenly not caring if the enemy gets in. Such logic. Then, if that wasn't ridiculous enough, after Ian's dad sent them away bcuz it was too dangerous, Lizzy's dad sent them all away bcuz it was too dangerous for them to be there..Lizzy in her own house. He can't order Ian, Alex, Rob, or Lina around. And how would it be dangerous for his daughter to be safely ensconced in her own home?
Rob was cool tho, bcuz he had his own men and said that some of them had seen Ian on the way to the castle, but that he'd take a dim view of loose talk. Which is why I was so mad when he carried Lizzie on his horse with him bcuz she fell asleep, and then put his hand on her shoulder to urge her forward when she was afraid to face her dad. He deserved way better than her. She doesn't deserve anyone, least of all the strong Rob, bcuz she's an idiot.
I hated when as Lina and Ian were talking as they rode to Lizzie's place that he felt guilty remembering a time when Lina's sister had read his thoughts. I wondered what thoughts he had about her. Lina had mentioned to Lizzy during their captivity that someone had flirted with Andrena, Lina's sister, and Mag, Lizzy's brother, so much that Mag threw him in the loch. She said nothing whatsoever that it had been Ian. And then at the castle after they'd changed out of nowhere she asked what he did to make Mag throw him in the loch. Wtf. 2 instances where he was with her sister.
I couldn't stand that Ian told his friends he'd had a brief flirtation with Andrena. Wtf is up with people having the guy like her sister? Wtf is romantic about the woman getting with a guy that was with her sister in any way?
Typo pg. 179 Take Lizzie on on wi' ye, and tell Malcolm she'll be staying for a time."
It was cute how when Ian rode his horse alongside Lina and her sister Muriella, Lina noticed he was looking at her, and Muriella was watching him knowingly, and then looked at Lina. He tried to find somewhere else to look and found Rob, rode back to him and asked What's amiss and and Rob said "Nowt. Was just wondering the same about you."
I kept waiting and waiting to see how "circumstances force him to take her as his wife" and it was such a total let down that her dad was the one who casually asked him and Rob if either of them would marry her. It was just to save her reputation, bcuz Dougal, their captor, came and asked her dad for her hand in marriage and he refused, so Dougal said he'd tell everyone he had his way with her and so did all of his men. Her reputation would be ruined, and before that can even happen, her dad was already asking two men if they'd "marry the poor lassie" as if marriage should be decided upon that quickly, just to save someone from a threat someone hasn't even acted on yet.
Typo pg. 191 "Nodding, Rob went out and shut the door behind him.
The writing irritated the crap out of me. I can't stand when historical novels use phrases that aren't accurate to the time period.
Racking her brain.
Get your just desserts.
Never hear the end of it.
Put his foot down.
Nerves of steel
I hated that he was surprised he didn't regret agreeing to marry, and that he was surprised he looked forward to his wedding night. That shouldn't be a surprise. That's no way to get married. It seemed like he was just looking forward to sex, what with looking forward to what came afterward and talking about his cock twitching. I didn't think the author would go there bcuz of how dry and prim and proper she was writing. She even wrote Lina's breasts swelled and nipples tightened. Um, ew. Her dad was in the room. And totally ew that he said his cock leaped and "the damned thing was practically crowing!" So gross to compare it to an animal.
It was so freaking unrealistic and inaccurate that her mom would tell Lina to eat up bcuz she'd be glad of it later and they would consummate their marriage after supper. And then for Lina to repeat it to Ian, at the table, with her mom on one side and her dad on Ian's side. Ladies did not speak of sex like that.
Ian turned into a bit of a bossy jerk which I didn't care for at all. I don't like the orders. He told her to push her kirtle and shift down and when she didn't he told her to push them off or he'd strip her of them himself. Wth. Then he told her to turn around, walk away from him and get on the bed bcuz he wanted to watch her. Then he handed out more orders in telling her to shake her hair out, then move it in front as she climbed on the bed bcuz it was blocking his view. What is attractive about that?
I was hoping the whole time that he was a virgin. It would have made the story so much better. Him having a past just didn't fit and it didn't need to be. But all authors have to write one type of hero or else the world would tip off its axis. I wonder if authors even know why they write this type of man, like it's the only character that can be created. I hated it when he thought he hadn't dreamt of her but he lied to her in saying he didn't remember his dreams and he remembered the sexy ones. It was disgusting to learn he had experience with women but not maidens bcuz knightly honor forbade him from messing with any women but the most experienced. And he wasn't a dolt bcuz he'd asked them many questions and considered himself to be knowledgeable. I was so disappointed in him. I expected better out of his character, bcuz this came out of nowhere.
And wow, talk about no reason in the slightest to have him be experienced. This was some of the shittiest lovemaking I've ever read. I realize some authors like experienced men bcuz it's all about having a pleasure-fest the first time, but jeez, this had none of that. I knew there would be no details and it was worse than a book I put down in which the words "he plunged into her" were used and the man had tricked her into marrying him to get an alliance or something. Idk what happened to Ian but in his place an experienced bastard after his own pleasure and uncaring of a virgin's pain took over and I wanted no part of it.
Everything he said was about as unromantic as he could get.
“Push your kirtle and shirt all the way off now, lass.”
“Push them off, or I will strip them from you myself.”
“Now,” he said, his voice harsh, even raspy, “turn around and walk away from me to the bed. I want to watch you climb into it. Don’t pull up the covers.”
“Stop and shake out the rest of your plaits. Show me how long your hair is.”
“Pull your hair forward now.” “I want to see all of you, and it’s in my way.”
“Now lie back, leave the covers as they are, and wait for me.”
“You are impatient,” he said, grinning. “I like that in a lass. Move over a wee bit more, though. I’m larger than the space you’ve left for me.”
No. Those orders are not hot in the slightest. Totally not working for me.
“He had experience with women but not with maidens, since knightly honor forbade trifling with any but the most willing and experience females. But he was no dolt. He had asked those women many questions and considered himself knowledgeable.”
“He had one hand on her belly then and fingers of the other tickling one of her nipples. Moving to claim that nipple with his lips, he eased his hand to the fork of her legs and tickled the opening there.”
Wtf. He tickled her? I have never heard of a man tickling a woman are foreplay and I have read hundreds and hundreds of romance books. It was disgusting. This is an experienced man? Bahahaha! He sounds like a bumbling jerk, only concerned with his own pleasure.
“You’re too big!”
“Be easy, lass, a woman’s body adjusts itself.”
If, in the end, it was not that easy, he was skillful and she remained submissive. So the task was done.
Pounding to his culmination, he knew he must have hurt her. But coupling was necessary for any husband and wife, and initiating it was the duty of any new husband. In any event, Lina seemed relaxed afterward and made no complaint.
In fact, he thought, she seemed strangely distracted. Too sated to twitch a muscle, let alone to talk, he concentrated on recovering enough energy to move.”
Um, what part of calling it a task is making me like him? He turned into an unlikable prick. And she’s spineless if she’s just going to be okay with submitting to him. I don’t like a dutiful woman that thinks her place is letting her husband control everything. And I don’t want someone expecting their wife to be submissive. Then he just laid there, not touching her or saying anything, too obsessed with his own pleasure. I don’t think so. Through in a sighting of her mom, as they in bed naked together, (she actually saw her mom in the room, some psychic thing or other) and I said screw this.
This is when I said arrivederci to this piece of crap that had been taking up too much of my time.
And to think that I was actually starting to enjoy it more as Ian teased Lina, when the author finally seemed to remember that books are supposed to be interesting.
I am so pissed I had the cruel misfortune to even set eyes on this book and I want my dollar back.
At the very start I knew this wasn't going to do it for me. I wished I had opened this at the bookstore, just scanned through and seen how the writing was. It was so prim and proper and hard to follow. I kept getting so lost and had no idea what they were talking about. It was equal parts their speech, with things like "ken fine" and "nowt."
and the author couldn't relate historical information like how battles and rebels' plans worked. I was so confused. Anytime anyone mentioned the rebel army and where Ian's castle was in relation to the rebels, I was lost. Add that to the fact that 100 names had been dumped out before the first chapter ended and I had no hope of ever understanding this book. Each page listed about a million different people. I had no chance of keeping up with anyone and so was completely lost as to who was talking and who they were talking about. Terrible storytelling to be sure.
Lizzie annoyed the crap out of me, and therefore Lachina did too, for letting her get away with her stunt and not reprimanding her more harshly. They had been warned by family, perhaps their dad or brother, not sure cuz I can't keep up with anyone, that rebels were in the area and it was dangerous to be there. So Lizzy, who apparently has fluff for brains, took off on her horse for a joy ride, not stopping or slowing when Lachina chased after her. She told Lizzy about the rebels, and even after they heard the sounds of approaching horses with weapons clanging, Lizzy was sure it was the nearby duchess or someone, or it could be family. Then, to make me even more aggravated, once they're captured, by rebels, the leader winks at them and Lizzy was blushing and enjoying the flirtation. Lachina was a complete dolt not making clear the gravity of the situation. She told her not to flirt with their captor, but then went on to say "Such men think they have only to smile at a woman to make her swoon at their feet, Liz. Doubtless they also imagine they can bend any lass to their ill-doings just as easily."
Yeah. I'm sure captors wouldn't hesitate to rape a woman, but if you want to say they'll bend them to their "ill-doings" then we'll go with that. How lame was that?
And I sensed a book coming for the stupid Lizzy who has no sense and the flirtatious captor. Won't be reading that. Bcuz I didn't even want to be reading this.
When Peter went to the castle to tell Mag, whoever that was, that the women had been captured, Ian actually remembered who Lachina was, from a brief glimpse he had of her 10 years ago. Um, really? That was 10 years ago? I had no idea 10 years had passed bcuz there was no sense of time passing in this book. It was awful storytelling. Nothing went together and it was a jumbled mess.
The use of the word "forebye," meaning however or besides, was so overdone it wasn't even funny. She used it at least once on every page. I had never heard of it before and regretted learning it. Their speech made me cringe.
"They rode hither and yon, just showing theirselves and their arms now and now. I saw nowt else save they ended at Dumbarton. When we reached the flatlands betwixt the castle..."
Ugh.
It is such a pet peeve of mine when authors use historically inaccurate phrases. "her train of thought." This is the 1400s, long before trains were invented, so how could that expression be out???
Lizzy, the spoiled brat, complained about her hair being in tangles and wanted someone to start a fire and bring them blankets. Guess she didn't understand she was captured. Yet, Lina said she had behaved fearlessly... I'll be the judge of that. I can't stand when authors tell me how to feel. If Lizzy is complaining and views being kidnapped as an adventure, she's a brainless dolt and fearless doesn't have anything to do with being an idiot.
What utter unrealistic garbage that mere hours or so after they're captured and before they've even had to spend one night of suffering, Ian managed to get into the castle and pose as a servant to bring them peat to burn. You have got to be kidding me. How about some pain and torture before they rescued? Because that's actually realistic. There was no buildup or tension bcuz the author doused it as quick as she could with a quick rescue operation, with no details either. We didn't even get to know how Ian managed the feat. It was kind of cute how she noticed him right away and as he turned his blue eyes met her and he asked if they'd hurt her. Then as he left he turned back and blew a kiss to her.
"Doucely now," "I'll see this chap outside yon gates the noo," and "Coo, I ken fine..." WTF is anybody saying?
Ian came off about as manly as a little girl when while hiding in the stables under straw tried to avoid being seen by Lizzy's brother, Patrick, and bought of a fawn drinking water and "lap-lapping." How utterly lame.
The author seemed to think having Ian stumble not once, not twice, but three times while going down the rope over the castle wall was a good idea. I was bored and just wanted to get on with things, so having him slip with his right foot, then with his left foot, and then have the rock crumble under him, was not action. It was a waste of time.
Dougal McPharlan, the flirty captor, went to crazy in a second. When he visited them in the cage he turned threatening and cruel, promising violence. Lizzy stupidly told him Alina's identity, and apparently his dad stole land or something from her dad. His dad wanted him to marry Lina or her sister Andrena. Lina was a total fool in pacifying him. She got a couple strong comments out, one of hem being "Have you lost the power of speech, sir?" when he just stared at her. "I think you would want a gey beautiful wife who thinks just as you do, sir. To satisfy your needs, she would also have to be obedient to your will in every way." And "I doubt that you would deal kindly with an unhappy wife, sir. You would just order her to happy. Lame. Lame. Lame.
Proving how stupid Lizzy really is, she doesn't know what Dougal was talking about when he said he'd enjoy their favors and let his men do so too. And Lina actually said "He speaks of sexual favors, Liz. The sort a husband enjoys from his wife in their bedchamber."
Doubt a lady would use the word sexual. And go ahead and describe it a little more.
Lizzy was a dumbass. There. This book inspired profanity so there it is. She actually said that she knew Dougal had been about to strike Lina but he stopped when she spoke quietly to him. So, it's okay if you're with a man that thinks it's okay to abuse women; you just have to be nice to him so he won't hit you? Wtf kind of dumbass logic is that? That's like telling women it's their fault that they made the man hit her, and she needs to be obedient so he won't. She encouraged Lina to speak quietly to him, talked on and on about him, how he was he most handsomest man she'd ever seen and how nice he was. And he wasn't mean that he hadn't fed them; he, like most men, didn't think about food...
Typo pg. 71 even suggesting and some of its residents possessed rich powers.
Lizzie made the comment that they were given soup with only barley and leeks in it and said it's a servant's fare, then when Lina said they can't get supplies easily Lizzy said she doesn't care what they eat as long as they do. Okayy.
Having Tur Meiloach be a magical place where people have powers to read ppls thoughts didn't fit.
Seen better days.
Typo Pg. 106 ..to the floor. You had best take the other portion now, Gorry, lest I forget later."
No quotation mark.
The style of the writing grated. Just as you're getting used to a scene, it ends. I hate books that are written like this. It's just a bunch of choppy, short scenes that keep ending before they should, which jolts you out of what you were reading.
Over 100 pages and they finally got out of that castle and I got to stop hearing about darning and mending clothes. Ugh.
Typo pg. 124 "When she paused expectantly, Lina sobered at once and shook her head.
It was ridiculous and so unrealistic that Ian could go in the castle, up the steps with all of those people coming and going, go back outside with both women in tow, unnoticed. It was explained away that no one was paying attention bcuz of the miserable weather. Yeah, I'm sure the rain had all those trained men at their jobs suddenly not caring if the enemy gets in. Such logic. Then, if that wasn't ridiculous enough, after Ian's dad sent them away bcuz it was too dangerous, Lizzy's dad sent them all away bcuz it was too dangerous for them to be there..Lizzy in her own house. He can't order Ian, Alex, Rob, or Lina around. And how would it be dangerous for his daughter to be safely ensconced in her own home?
Rob was cool tho, bcuz he had his own men and said that some of them had seen Ian on the way to the castle, but that he'd take a dim view of loose talk. Which is why I was so mad when he carried Lizzie on his horse with him bcuz she fell asleep, and then put his hand on her shoulder to urge her forward when she was afraid to face her dad. He deserved way better than her. She doesn't deserve anyone, least of all the strong Rob, bcuz she's an idiot.
I hated when as Lina and Ian were talking as they rode to Lizzie's place that he felt guilty remembering a time when Lina's sister had read his thoughts. I wondered what thoughts he had about her. Lina had mentioned to Lizzy during their captivity that someone had flirted with Andrena, Lina's sister, and Mag, Lizzy's brother, so much that Mag threw him in the loch. She said nothing whatsoever that it had been Ian. And then at the castle after they'd changed out of nowhere she asked what he did to make Mag throw him in the loch. Wtf. 2 instances where he was with her sister.
I couldn't stand that Ian told his friends he'd had a brief flirtation with Andrena. Wtf is up with people having the guy like her sister? Wtf is romantic about the woman getting with a guy that was with her sister in any way?
Typo pg. 179 Take Lizzie on on wi' ye, and tell Malcolm she'll be staying for a time."
It was cute how when Ian rode his horse alongside Lina and her sister Muriella, Lina noticed he was looking at her, and Muriella was watching him knowingly, and then looked at Lina. He tried to find somewhere else to look and found Rob, rode back to him and asked What's amiss and and Rob said "Nowt. Was just wondering the same about you."
I kept waiting and waiting to see how "circumstances force him to take her as his wife" and it was such a total let down that her dad was the one who casually asked him and Rob if either of them would marry her. It was just to save her reputation, bcuz Dougal, their captor, came and asked her dad for her hand in marriage and he refused, so Dougal said he'd tell everyone he had his way with her and so did all of his men. Her reputation would be ruined, and before that can even happen, her dad was already asking two men if they'd "marry the poor lassie" as if marriage should be decided upon that quickly, just to save someone from a threat someone hasn't even acted on yet.
Typo pg. 191 "Nodding, Rob went out and shut the door behind him.
The writing irritated the crap out of me. I can't stand when historical novels use phrases that aren't accurate to the time period.
Racking her brain.
Get your just desserts.
Never hear the end of it.
Put his foot down.
Nerves of steel
I hated that he was surprised he didn't regret agreeing to marry, and that he was surprised he looked forward to his wedding night. That shouldn't be a surprise. That's no way to get married. It seemed like he was just looking forward to sex, what with looking forward to what came afterward and talking about his cock twitching. I didn't think the author would go there bcuz of how dry and prim and proper she was writing. She even wrote Lina's breasts swelled and nipples tightened. Um, ew. Her dad was in the room. And totally ew that he said his cock leaped and "the damned thing was practically crowing!" So gross to compare it to an animal.
It was so freaking unrealistic and inaccurate that her mom would tell Lina to eat up bcuz she'd be glad of it later and they would consummate their marriage after supper. And then for Lina to repeat it to Ian, at the table, with her mom on one side and her dad on Ian's side. Ladies did not speak of sex like that.
Ian turned into a bit of a bossy jerk which I didn't care for at all. I don't like the orders. He told her to push her kirtle and shift down and when she didn't he told her to push them off or he'd strip her of them himself. Wth. Then he told her to turn around, walk away from him and get on the bed bcuz he wanted to watch her. Then he handed out more orders in telling her to shake her hair out, then move it in front as she climbed on the bed bcuz it was blocking his view. What is attractive about that?
I was hoping the whole time that he was a virgin. It would have made the story so much better. Him having a past just didn't fit and it didn't need to be. But all authors have to write one type of hero or else the world would tip off its axis. I wonder if authors even know why they write this type of man, like it's the only character that can be created. I hated it when he thought he hadn't dreamt of her but he lied to her in saying he didn't remember his dreams and he remembered the sexy ones. It was disgusting to learn he had experience with women but not maidens bcuz knightly honor forbade him from messing with any women but the most experienced. And he wasn't a dolt bcuz he'd asked them many questions and considered himself to be knowledgeable. I was so disappointed in him. I expected better out of his character, bcuz this came out of nowhere.
And wow, talk about no reason in the slightest to have him be experienced. This was some of the shittiest lovemaking I've ever read. I realize some authors like experienced men bcuz it's all about having a pleasure-fest the first time, but jeez, this had none of that. I knew there would be no details and it was worse than a book I put down in which the words "he plunged into her" were used and the man had tricked her into marrying him to get an alliance or something. Idk what happened to Ian but in his place an experienced bastard after his own pleasure and uncaring of a virgin's pain took over and I wanted no part of it.
Everything he said was about as unromantic as he could get.
“Push your kirtle and shirt all the way off now, lass.”
“Push them off, or I will strip them from you myself.”
“Now,” he said, his voice harsh, even raspy, “turn around and walk away from me to the bed. I want to watch you climb into it. Don’t pull up the covers.”
“Stop and shake out the rest of your plaits. Show me how long your hair is.”
“Pull your hair forward now.” “I want to see all of you, and it’s in my way.”
“Now lie back, leave the covers as they are, and wait for me.”
“You are impatient,” he said, grinning. “I like that in a lass. Move over a wee bit more, though. I’m larger than the space you’ve left for me.”
No. Those orders are not hot in the slightest. Totally not working for me.
“He had experience with women but not with maidens, since knightly honor forbade trifling with any but the most willing and experience females. But he was no dolt. He had asked those women many questions and considered himself knowledgeable.”
“He had one hand on her belly then and fingers of the other tickling one of her nipples. Moving to claim that nipple with his lips, he eased his hand to the fork of her legs and tickled the opening there.”
Wtf. He tickled her? I have never heard of a man tickling a woman are foreplay and I have read hundreds and hundreds of romance books. It was disgusting. This is an experienced man? Bahahaha! He sounds like a bumbling jerk, only concerned with his own pleasure.
“You’re too big!”
“Be easy, lass, a woman’s body adjusts itself.”
If, in the end, it was not that easy, he was skillful and she remained submissive. So the task was done.
Pounding to his culmination, he knew he must have hurt her. But coupling was necessary for any husband and wife, and initiating it was the duty of any new husband. In any event, Lina seemed relaxed afterward and made no complaint.
In fact, he thought, she seemed strangely distracted. Too sated to twitch a muscle, let alone to talk, he concentrated on recovering enough energy to move.”
Um, what part of calling it a task is making me like him? He turned into an unlikable prick. And she’s spineless if she’s just going to be okay with submitting to him. I don’t like a dutiful woman that thinks her place is letting her husband control everything. And I don’t want someone expecting their wife to be submissive. Then he just laid there, not touching her or saying anything, too obsessed with his own pleasure. I don’t think so. Through in a sighting of her mom, as they in bed naked together, (she actually saw her mom in the room, some psychic thing or other) and I said screw this.
This is when I said arrivederci to this piece of crap that had been taking up too much of my time.
And to think that I was actually starting to enjoy it more as Ian teased Lina, when the author finally seemed to remember that books are supposed to be interesting.
I am so pissed I had the cruel misfortune to even set eyes on this book and I want my dollar back.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2014
Lady Lachina (Lina, thank God) MacFarlan is out for a ride with Elizabeth Galbraith. Unfortunately, Lizzie isn't the type who thinks things through before she acts, and before they know it, she's hared off and straight into trouble—and sensible Lina can only try to catch up with her before she finds it.
Sure enough, they end up captured—by none other than Dougal Pharlain (if you think there's a similarity between their names, there is—cuz he's one of the "other" MacFarlans, who conveniently spell their names funny so nobody will confuse them). Dougie's in league with James Mor Stewart, who has captured Dunbarton castle in rebellion against King James. The two ladies will make keen hostages for their cause.
Did I mention that Lizzie has feathers for brains? No, really…
She decides that Dougal is too hawt to be evil, so she is all
And she runs off at the mouth, and sticks her foot in it for Lina. Cuz once Dougal knows who Lina is, he has even eviler plans for her.
Sir Ian Colquhoun (yeah, say THAT three times fast!) decides to rescue them, and after a good deal of falderal over the politics of it, he does. Which makes the girls political hot potatoes. Anybody who shelters them will appear to be taking sides against James Mor, and most of the bigwigs roundabouts are a bit too spineless for that. So Ian has no choice but to squire them around until he can find a safe place to put them. Which gives him and Lina plenty of time to get better acquainted (though not in any fun way). And then they "have" to get married (hah—I bet you think I lied earlier, but I didn't).
Meanwhile, Ian has a mission to complete. And Dougal isn't done being evil.
This isn't as history-rich as some other books of Amanda Scott's but she has set the story around some real events. Dougal makes for a satisfying villain I'll give this one another 4 star rating.
Sure enough, they end up captured—by none other than Dougal Pharlain (if you think there's a similarity between their names, there is—cuz he's one of the "other" MacFarlans, who conveniently spell their names funny so nobody will confuse them). Dougie's in league with James Mor Stewart, who has captured Dunbarton castle in rebellion against King James. The two ladies will make keen hostages for their cause.
Did I mention that Lizzie has feathers for brains? No, really…
She decides that Dougal is too hawt to be evil, so she is all
And she runs off at the mouth, and sticks her foot in it for Lina. Cuz once Dougal knows who Lina is, he has even eviler plans for her.
Sir Ian Colquhoun (yeah, say THAT three times fast!) decides to rescue them, and after a good deal of falderal over the politics of it, he does. Which makes the girls political hot potatoes. Anybody who shelters them will appear to be taking sides against James Mor, and most of the bigwigs roundabouts are a bit too spineless for that. So Ian has no choice but to squire them around until he can find a safe place to put them. Which gives him and Lina plenty of time to get better acquainted (though not in any fun way). And then they "have" to get married (hah—I bet you think I lied earlier, but I didn't).
Meanwhile, Ian has a mission to complete. And Dougal isn't done being evil.
This isn't as history-rich as some other books of Amanda Scott's but she has set the story around some real events. Dougal makes for a satisfying villain I'll give this one another 4 star rating.
September 7, 2013
I received The Knight's Temptress as part of a Goodreads giveaway.
When Lady Lachina (Lina) and her brother-in-law's younger sister are captured by the leader of an enemy clan, her childhood acquaintance Sir Ian sets out to rescue her. When her captor comes in search of Lina, offering to marry her, the pair are forced into a quick marriage that, of course, doesn't stay a union of convenience very long.
To be frank, the book didn't really grab me. While a lot of action happened in the plot, I didn't feel like the main characters spent all that much time together, so their chemistry sort of fell flat for me. Plus, as a personal preference, I really don't like books with supernatural elements--I prefer to read about plain old human beings. I know it's an unpopular opinion in this day and age, so take that with a grain of salt.
That said, I did appreciate how Scott incorporated some real history into the book, moreso than most other authors. It was an okay way spend a few hours on a quiet afternoon, but I'm not sure this one will stick with me.
When Lady Lachina (Lina) and her brother-in-law's younger sister are captured by the leader of an enemy clan, her childhood acquaintance Sir Ian sets out to rescue her. When her captor comes in search of Lina, offering to marry her, the pair are forced into a quick marriage that, of course, doesn't stay a union of convenience very long.
To be frank, the book didn't really grab me. While a lot of action happened in the plot, I didn't feel like the main characters spent all that much time together, so their chemistry sort of fell flat for me. Plus, as a personal preference, I really don't like books with supernatural elements--I prefer to read about plain old human beings. I know it's an unpopular opinion in this day and age, so take that with a grain of salt.
That said, I did appreciate how Scott incorporated some real history into the book, moreso than most other authors. It was an okay way spend a few hours on a quiet afternoon, but I'm not sure this one will stick with me.
November 28, 2013
Even though I am not a great fan of Scottish historicals, I enjoyed this one but it took a while to get into and understand the story. The characters gave off a feel of a younger-man-older-female trope, yet the hero matures as he battles through his wits and weapons with the enemy, and learns to cherish the heroine. The heroine's role didn't give her much chance to showcase her complexity, but I liked her nonetheless.
My only problem is that I had to search up some of the historical background to get an understanding of Scotland's wars and the one in which the hero was involved. So I wish the introduction gave less of an in medias ras feel and gave some prologue or explanation so readers can better understand the ongoings at the start of the book, even if that took away a bit of the story's action.
*Review copy from the publisher via Netgalley for an honest review
**For a multitude of reasons this is a shortened version of my regular reviews.**
My only problem is that I had to search up some of the historical background to get an understanding of Scotland's wars and the one in which the hero was involved. So I wish the introduction gave less of an in medias ras feel and gave some prologue or explanation so readers can better understand the ongoings at the start of the book, even if that took away a bit of the story's action.
*Review copy from the publisher via Netgalley for an honest review
**For a multitude of reasons this is a shortened version of my regular reviews.**
September 6, 2013
Overall, there was a lot to the overall series plot arc in this story, but the focus on the relationship between Ian and Lina was lacking for me. It was awesome to get to see more of Mag and Dree (the H/H from book one) and to get more hints about Muriella and what her story might entail. Getting to experience Ian’s military mind and his challenges and struggles to aid King Jaime was pretty interesting too. If there had been more time spent between Ian and Lina—though the time they spent together in bed was certainly fun to read—the story would have been a hit for me. I look forward to the next in the series and hope for a return of relationship building like there was in book one.
Rating: 3 stars
for full review see my blog at:
http://romancewitchreviews.blogspot.c...
Rating: 3 stars
for full review see my blog at:
http://romancewitchreviews.blogspot.c...
September 10, 2015
I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway, in exchange for an honest review. I was excited by the fact that the chapters were divided in short sections. I also love Historical Romance Fiction. I just could not get past the first two pages. Even with with author's guide to various words, the dialogue written in the characters' actual speaking accents threw off my attention. I know others will not be bothered by this and will enjoy the book.
September 28, 2013
Scottish brogue, hunky highlanders and feisty females takes readers on a romp through medieval Scotland. Actually rated 4.5! Taken from my review at RomanceJunkies.com:
Sir Ian Colquhoun is known for his brave, but reckless, feats. Meeting with King Jamie Stewart, King of Scots, Ian relays the news that Jamie Mor and his rebels have taken Dumbarton. In the process they murdered the governor, who was the king’s uncle, and Jamie’s cousin, the captain of the guard. The Colquhoun seat of Dunglass is less than three miles from Dumbarton. So, the king orders Ian to use his reputation for mischief to win back Dumbarton castle. Meanwhile, Dougal MacPharlain, one of James Mor’s rebels, is watching Dunglass, looking for a chance to capture a hostage.
Eighteen-year-old Lachina ‘Lina’ MacFarland’s older sister, Andrena, and her husband, Mags, the Laird of Galbraith, are away, having been summoned to Dunglass and left orders not to stray from the castle. With rebels in the area, it is just too dangerous. While her sister is away, Lina is spending time with Mag’s fourteen-year-old sister, Lizzie Galbraith. She has only known the girl for six days, so she is not sure what to expect from her. But when the two girls, against orders, venture out for a wee ride, Lina is shocked when headstrong Lizzie throws caution to the wind and gallops off. By the time Lina catches up with her, it is too late. The girls are taken captive, but fortunately, Lina has the farsightedness to warn the gillie who accompanied them, so he can escape and take word back. Lina and her two sisters always know when one of them is in trouble, so she knows it is only a matter of time before her two sisters make an appearance.
Lina is familiar with the Colquhouns of Dunglass since their estates adjoin her father’s acreage. In fact, Ian had once pursued Andrena, before she met and married Mags. Although Lina admires the knight’s bravery, she considers him too reckless. This is proven out when Ian suddenly appears as a peat man in the room where they are being held captive, and manages to help the girls escape before James Mor can use them to convince the Colquhouns and Galbraiths to side with him. With her father’s bitter enemy, Douglas MacPharlain, threatening to either make Lina his wife or ruin her reputation, preventative measures are taken as she and Ian are promptly wed.
Lina and her sisters each have powers of their own. In Lina’s case, she can gauge a person’s trustworthiness. But since her wedding night, Lina’s powers seem to be growing and now she also has the gift of foresight. As she and Ian adjust to married life, passion escalates and they begin to fall in love. But a threat has entered their midst. Between Ian’s bravery and Lina’s powers, can they defeat it, or will they lose the love they have just found?
A delicious tale, THE KNIGHT’S TEMPTRESS, the second book in author Amanda Scott’s LAIRD OF THE LOCH series, is a clever, sensual historical romance that takes readers on a romp across the medieval Scottish highlands. It is a joy to watch as the relationship and love between Ian and Lina grows. The two are perfectly suited for each other.
The Scottish brogue, hunky highlanders, feisty females, mystical powers, bravery, knights, tender romance and love lend an air of credibility to the story. The use of genuine persons and facts to the fictional elements adds even more realism to Ms. Scott’s writing. This story can be read as a standalone, but fans of this series will be thrilled to be reunited with Mags and Dree from the first story, THE LAIRD’S CHOICE. An enticing saga, THE KNIGHT’S TEMPTRESS is one you will not want to miss!
Dottie, RomanceJunkies.com
Sir Ian Colquhoun is known for his brave, but reckless, feats. Meeting with King Jamie Stewart, King of Scots, Ian relays the news that Jamie Mor and his rebels have taken Dumbarton. In the process they murdered the governor, who was the king’s uncle, and Jamie’s cousin, the captain of the guard. The Colquhoun seat of Dunglass is less than three miles from Dumbarton. So, the king orders Ian to use his reputation for mischief to win back Dumbarton castle. Meanwhile, Dougal MacPharlain, one of James Mor’s rebels, is watching Dunglass, looking for a chance to capture a hostage.
Eighteen-year-old Lachina ‘Lina’ MacFarland’s older sister, Andrena, and her husband, Mags, the Laird of Galbraith, are away, having been summoned to Dunglass and left orders not to stray from the castle. With rebels in the area, it is just too dangerous. While her sister is away, Lina is spending time with Mag’s fourteen-year-old sister, Lizzie Galbraith. She has only known the girl for six days, so she is not sure what to expect from her. But when the two girls, against orders, venture out for a wee ride, Lina is shocked when headstrong Lizzie throws caution to the wind and gallops off. By the time Lina catches up with her, it is too late. The girls are taken captive, but fortunately, Lina has the farsightedness to warn the gillie who accompanied them, so he can escape and take word back. Lina and her two sisters always know when one of them is in trouble, so she knows it is only a matter of time before her two sisters make an appearance.
Lina is familiar with the Colquhouns of Dunglass since their estates adjoin her father’s acreage. In fact, Ian had once pursued Andrena, before she met and married Mags. Although Lina admires the knight’s bravery, she considers him too reckless. This is proven out when Ian suddenly appears as a peat man in the room where they are being held captive, and manages to help the girls escape before James Mor can use them to convince the Colquhouns and Galbraiths to side with him. With her father’s bitter enemy, Douglas MacPharlain, threatening to either make Lina his wife or ruin her reputation, preventative measures are taken as she and Ian are promptly wed.
Lina and her sisters each have powers of their own. In Lina’s case, she can gauge a person’s trustworthiness. But since her wedding night, Lina’s powers seem to be growing and now she also has the gift of foresight. As she and Ian adjust to married life, passion escalates and they begin to fall in love. But a threat has entered their midst. Between Ian’s bravery and Lina’s powers, can they defeat it, or will they lose the love they have just found?
A delicious tale, THE KNIGHT’S TEMPTRESS, the second book in author Amanda Scott’s LAIRD OF THE LOCH series, is a clever, sensual historical romance that takes readers on a romp across the medieval Scottish highlands. It is a joy to watch as the relationship and love between Ian and Lina grows. The two are perfectly suited for each other.
The Scottish brogue, hunky highlanders, feisty females, mystical powers, bravery, knights, tender romance and love lend an air of credibility to the story. The use of genuine persons and facts to the fictional elements adds even more realism to Ms. Scott’s writing. This story can be read as a standalone, but fans of this series will be thrilled to be reunited with Mags and Dree from the first story, THE LAIRD’S CHOICE. An enticing saga, THE KNIGHT’S TEMPTRESS is one you will not want to miss!
Dottie, RomanceJunkies.com
August 14, 2013
If you have a love of Scottish Romance Novels and have never read Amanda Scott you are seriously missing out. Her romances are sweeping sagas telling the history of Scotland through the lives of those who lived it. Interspersing her fiction with fact makes each story a learning experience.
The Knight's Temptress is the second book in her Lairds of the Loch Series, a series which follows the loves and lives of three sisters and the men who love them. While this in no way is a paranormal romance Amanda does a wonderful job of bringing the legends of Scotland into the fray. We all know Scotland is a mystical magical place and Amanda shares the wonder of such magic with us.
While this book is the second book in the Lairds of the Loch series it is part of the ongoing saga that is Scotland and also connects with some of her other series. When I reviewed her book The Laird's Choice I commented on what seemed like a lack of continuity.. that it was more of an introduction than an exciting new story. With The Knight's Temptress it seems I have been proven correct. The Knight's Temptress takes us back into the fray.. but it also answers my number one question from The Laird's Choice.. I wanted to know if Will had survived to serve Jaimie, if those that had served his father were still around to serve him. and within moments of starting the book we see Will now a knight and serving Jaimie.. made me proud of both Ms Scott (for adding that detail) and of Jaimie for honoring his old friend.
Sir Ian Colquhoun is a man of action, daring plans and sometimes impossible feats.. he has been charged with retaking the fortress at Dumbarton for King Jaimie.. An almost impossible feat.. as the fortress is considered impenetrable. While considering his options and researching all the facts he discovers a fact far more sinister two ladies, daughters and sisters of his friends and allies have been captured and are being held hostage in the very fortress he has been charged to retake.
Lady Lachina MacFarlan the quiet sister, the middle child, the responsible one. Known for her weaving and knowledge of herbs and potions. Not the mystical ways of her sister and mother, nor the storytelling talent of her youngest sister.. she is just a normal woman. Yet, when she is captured and held hostage her very calmness is what saves her from going quietly insane. It also helped her deal with irresponsible nit wit lizzie.. the reason they were in this mess..
Ian realized that there were some things more important than retaking the castle, the lives and reputations of these two women were involved. Aside from becoming political captives one of Lina's nefarious cousins has decided he wants her for his own purposes.
Ian and Lina are thrown together in a vast and varied of ways until the only way to save Lina is for her to marry.. Suddenly easy going Ian is not so happy with her marrying anyone else.. She is his and his alone...
Together these two must learn to appreciate the talents and gifts of the other.. to learn when to listen and when to stand firm.. How to live life among the sweeping saga that was Scotland..
A great book.. I can not wait for the next one.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of The Knight's Temptress provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on August 27, 2013
The Knight's Temptress is the second book in her Lairds of the Loch Series, a series which follows the loves and lives of three sisters and the men who love them. While this in no way is a paranormal romance Amanda does a wonderful job of bringing the legends of Scotland into the fray. We all know Scotland is a mystical magical place and Amanda shares the wonder of such magic with us.
While this book is the second book in the Lairds of the Loch series it is part of the ongoing saga that is Scotland and also connects with some of her other series. When I reviewed her book The Laird's Choice I commented on what seemed like a lack of continuity.. that it was more of an introduction than an exciting new story. With The Knight's Temptress it seems I have been proven correct. The Knight's Temptress takes us back into the fray.. but it also answers my number one question from The Laird's Choice.. I wanted to know if Will had survived to serve Jaimie, if those that had served his father were still around to serve him. and within moments of starting the book we see Will now a knight and serving Jaimie.. made me proud of both Ms Scott (for adding that detail) and of Jaimie for honoring his old friend.
Sir Ian Colquhoun is a man of action, daring plans and sometimes impossible feats.. he has been charged with retaking the fortress at Dumbarton for King Jaimie.. An almost impossible feat.. as the fortress is considered impenetrable. While considering his options and researching all the facts he discovers a fact far more sinister two ladies, daughters and sisters of his friends and allies have been captured and are being held hostage in the very fortress he has been charged to retake.
Lady Lachina MacFarlan the quiet sister, the middle child, the responsible one. Known for her weaving and knowledge of herbs and potions. Not the mystical ways of her sister and mother, nor the storytelling talent of her youngest sister.. she is just a normal woman. Yet, when she is captured and held hostage her very calmness is what saves her from going quietly insane. It also helped her deal with irresponsible nit wit lizzie.. the reason they were in this mess..
Ian realized that there were some things more important than retaking the castle, the lives and reputations of these two women were involved. Aside from becoming political captives one of Lina's nefarious cousins has decided he wants her for his own purposes.
Ian and Lina are thrown together in a vast and varied of ways until the only way to save Lina is for her to marry.. Suddenly easy going Ian is not so happy with her marrying anyone else.. She is his and his alone...
Together these two must learn to appreciate the talents and gifts of the other.. to learn when to listen and when to stand firm.. How to live life among the sweeping saga that was Scotland..
A great book.. I can not wait for the next one.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of The Knight's Temptress provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on August 27, 2013
August 30, 2013
This is the second in the Lairds of the Loch series and continues the saga in the time of Jamie, King of Scots and the struggle of land ownership, politics and love. This is more about the history of Scotland with a wonderful romance between two engaging people weaved into this tale. A must for Amanda Scott fans as she does not disappoint with another story from a forbidden landscape.
Ian Colquhoun enjoys his life as a knight of the realm and is busy with duties for Jamie, King of Scots. He will eventually succeed his father as the Colquhoun and does not feel the need for a wife now. He recently returned from a visit with Jamie and he plans to recapture Dumbarton Castle from James Mor who keeps it for his rebels.
Lina MacFarlan and Lizzie Galbraith are out for a ride when they are captured by the rebels and taken to Dumbarton, James Mor plans to use them as collateral to get the Colquhoun's and
MacFarlan's to side with him. Fortunately Ian hears about the girls, visits them to see that they are treated well and decides that when the talks fail between his father and James Mor, as he knows they will, he has plans to rescue them.
Ian's father is angry with the rescue because it jeopardizes the neutrality he has always pretended to have with James Mor. Ian takes the girls back to Lina's family at Tur Meiloach where they must face the danger that Dougal MacParlain, a rebel, brings when he asks for Lina's hand in marriage, and forces Ian to marry her instead.
What a wonderful picture Ms. Scott weaves through her writing as she brings ancient Scotland alive for us with interesting characters and intriguing old Scotland politics.
Complete review at: Ramblings from a Chaotic Mind
Coopy from publisher for an honest review
Ian Colquhoun enjoys his life as a knight of the realm and is busy with duties for Jamie, King of Scots. He will eventually succeed his father as the Colquhoun and does not feel the need for a wife now. He recently returned from a visit with Jamie and he plans to recapture Dumbarton Castle from James Mor who keeps it for his rebels.
Lina MacFarlan and Lizzie Galbraith are out for a ride when they are captured by the rebels and taken to Dumbarton, James Mor plans to use them as collateral to get the Colquhoun's and
MacFarlan's to side with him. Fortunately Ian hears about the girls, visits them to see that they are treated well and decides that when the talks fail between his father and James Mor, as he knows they will, he has plans to rescue them.
Ian's father is angry with the rescue because it jeopardizes the neutrality he has always pretended to have with James Mor. Ian takes the girls back to Lina's family at Tur Meiloach where they must face the danger that Dougal MacParlain, a rebel, brings when he asks for Lina's hand in marriage, and forces Ian to marry her instead.
What a wonderful picture Ms. Scott weaves through her writing as she brings ancient Scotland alive for us with interesting characters and intriguing old Scotland politics.
Complete review at: Ramblings from a Chaotic Mind
Coopy from publisher for an honest review
February 25, 2014
Amanda Scott is welcome to pull me out of my regency world anytime she damn well pleases and this Scottish historical did just that. It pulled me in and didn’t let go until I read the last page.
This is the second story in “The Lairds of the Loch” series, and although it can be read as a standalone, I really wished to have read the first book, ‘The Laird’s Choice’ which was Lady Andrena MacFarlan’s and Magnus “Mag” Galbraith’s story.
I loved this story, especially Lina and Ian. Watching these two create love from a forced marriage was pure joy. The steady pace of their relationship gave time for their love to grow and the chemistry between the two set of sparks that you could feel it through the pages.
I have to say that once I finish reading one of Amanda Scott’s books, I feel somehow smarter [STOP laughing! I’m serious!]. She seamlessly weaves history with fiction and has me eating up the story that is fast paced and filled with action and adventure. She has me craving more history, more knowledge of the world I can only imagine ever living in.
If you’re looking for all that, then this is a story for you. Try it and you’ll see what I mean.
*Melanie for b2b
*Book provided by the publisher through NetGalley
This is the second story in “The Lairds of the Loch” series, and although it can be read as a standalone, I really wished to have read the first book, ‘The Laird’s Choice’ which was Lady Andrena MacFarlan’s and Magnus “Mag” Galbraith’s story.
I loved this story, especially Lina and Ian. Watching these two create love from a forced marriage was pure joy. The steady pace of their relationship gave time for their love to grow and the chemistry between the two set of sparks that you could feel it through the pages.
I have to say that once I finish reading one of Amanda Scott’s books, I feel somehow smarter [STOP laughing! I’m serious!]. She seamlessly weaves history with fiction and has me eating up the story that is fast paced and filled with action and adventure. She has me craving more history, more knowledge of the world I can only imagine ever living in.
If you’re looking for all that, then this is a story for you. Try it and you’ll see what I mean.
*Melanie for b2b
*Book provided by the publisher through NetGalley
September 23, 2013
I haven't read the 1st book in this series, wasn't sure I wanted to read this one right away. I did read this, however, and I loved it!! I like the relationship between Ian and Lina, the fact that he listens to her when she explains her "ability". I like the way that Lina feels comfortable enough to be honest with him. (Not a big fan of the book-long misunderstandings that happen in some books.) I enjoy the way Scott writes the same scene from multiple points of view - so we can get a complete feel for the thoughts and motivations for all the characters. I also enjoyed many of the peripheral characters and their development. (Can't wait to read Rob and Murie's story next.) I hope that Alex will get his own book in the future.
Why did the book not get a 5th star from me? A few too many unanswered questions! (Who is the big, dark-haired Highlander in the prologue? What is the rest of the conversation between Lady Aubrey and Lina, where Aubrey is going to explain about the visions that Lina's been having? Why is Aubrey so certain that Dougal's father would not want him to harm her?) If, by some chance, we get answers in the next book, I may upgrade the score here........
Why did the book not get a 5th star from me? A few too many unanswered questions! (Who is the big, dark-haired Highlander in the prologue? What is the rest of the conversation between Lady Aubrey and Lina, where Aubrey is going to explain about the visions that Lina's been having? Why is Aubrey so certain that Dougal's father would not want him to harm her?) If, by some chance, we get answers in the next book, I may upgrade the score here........
July 25, 2013
THE KNIGHT'S TEMPTRESS by Amanda Scott is an exciting Scottish Historical Romance set in 1425 Stirling, Scotland. #2 in "The Lairds of the Loch" series, but can be read as a stand alone. See, "Laird's Choice". A fast paced,action packed story of Sir Ian Colquhoun and Lady Lachina MacFarlan. When Lady Lachina is captured Sir Ian must not only rescue her but take her as his wife and become her protector. But Lina realizes she wants more than a protector she wants a husband,lover and family. Filled with passion,danger, Scottish allure,treason,and love. The romance and passion sizzles off the page,as this daring couple learn to navigate their passion and a way of life. I loved it! With her usual flare for the Scottish world, Ms. Scott has yet again created a dazzling story with a bigger than life hero and a feisty heroine. A must read for anyone who enjoys not only Scottish romance, or historical romance but a compelling story of Scottish hardships. Received an ARC for an honest review from the publisher and Net Galley.
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: MILD
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, Review courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: MILD
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, Review courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
January 9, 2014
Missed the first installment of this trilogy but so far as the sisters are concerned not necessary to have read it. The history, though somewhat easy to surmise, might have been better understood if it had been. Love the description of the Scottish countryside, the Scot's burr in the dialogue and the character development. The relationships among the characters are also well drawn and the good guys and gals easy to love, while the rebels against Jamie, James I, easy to dislike.
Pleased to say I also won the last installment of the trilogy---which will be released next month --so am hurriedly reading it so that I may write a more timely review for it. The first few pages are very intriguing. The main characters of Rob MacAulay and Lady Muriella MacFarlan have already been introduced, probably in the first book, but also in this Knight's Temptress. He is the best friend from childhood of Sir Ian Colquhoun, the main male character, and she is the impish youngest MacFarlan girl, sister to Sir Ian's new wife, the Lady Lucina.
Rob is very mature and serious, Muriella is a story teller and impish. I look forward to the development of this unlikely romance in the next book.
Pleased to say I also won the last installment of the trilogy---which will be released next month --so am hurriedly reading it so that I may write a more timely review for it. The first few pages are very intriguing. The main characters of Rob MacAulay and Lady Muriella MacFarlan have already been introduced, probably in the first book, but also in this Knight's Temptress. He is the best friend from childhood of Sir Ian Colquhoun, the main male character, and she is the impish youngest MacFarlan girl, sister to Sir Ian's new wife, the Lady Lucina.
Rob is very mature and serious, Muriella is a story teller and impish. I look forward to the development of this unlikely romance in the next book.
March 3, 2014
I was lucky enough to receive a copy of The Knight's Temptress through Goodreads, and I am so glad that I did. The Knight's Temptress is the first book that I have read by Scott, and I found that I really enjoyed it. I usually don't read a whole lot of romance without paranormal elements in it so I am usually selective about the ones I do chose to read. This book appealed to me because I was looking for a good Scottish romance, and Scott definitely delivered that in this book. Scott has created two memorable characters in Ian and Lina making it easy to root for this couple. I also liked the secondary characters that she introduces as well. Scott does a great job at combining action, adventure, romance, and even some humor into a wonderfully romantic read that proved hard to put down. I look forward to checking out more books in this series as well as other works by this author. If you are looking for a great romantic Scottish love story, then you will definitely want to check out this book.
February 9, 2017
There's nothing like being kidnapped to know who your enemies are. Sn who among your friends are the bravest. Not to mention who should receive a lady's favor. Lachina MacFarlan should have known they were riding into a trap. Yet although spoils of war, the girls were treated well until ransom notes could be posted. Therefore Lina was surprised when courageous Sir Ian Colquhoun penetrated the castle. Not just once. But twice in order to free her and Lizzie. The price of freedom became high when Lina's captor began spreading vicious tales that could only ruin her
Amanda Scott has an amazing storage of history that comes alive in her fictional tales.
Forever (Grand Central Publishing)
August 2013
--the bookworm
Amanda Scott has an amazing storage of history that comes alive in her fictional tales.
Forever (Grand Central Publishing)
August 2013
--the bookworm
September 16, 2013
This was a nice continuation of the story of the MacFarlan sisters. Although, I enjoyed book one's story of Adrena and Mag more than Ian's and Lina's love story...this book was more about the conflict than romance. The conflict and twists and turns make for a fun read. I like how much research Amanda Scott puts into learning about the actual people with whom her characters share names. I liked that Dree wasn't the only sister to have "strong" powers, when we were introduced to the sisters in the first book I felt bad for the other 2 sisters since their powers seemed to be so weak compared to hers. I enjoyed seeing Lina'a character grow and how Amanda Scott makes the reader care about hercharacters and empathize with their struggles.
September 29, 2013
I received this book through a Good Reads First Reads Giveaway. I love reading historical romance, and I have read many different authors. My favorite historical romance books tend to be set in Scotland, so I was excited for the chance to try a new author. For me, the book was a slow read, it was hard to get interested because there was more about the fighting and so much information about different battling families for land than the love story between the two main characters. When I read historical romance I want more of the romance, more of a connection to the two main characters and I felt I didn't get that here. But overall it wasn't a bad read, I just wanted more of a story for Lina and Ian.
September 4, 2013
I liked Lina and Ian's story. It was well written and the story moved right along but it didn't hold my attention as much as Mag and Dree's book did.
I am not sure if this is a spoiler - but I felt a bit cheated in the romance department - I never really saw the H/h fall in love - not even through inner dialogue - there was no real declarations (from either of them) and their passion was lukewarm at best.
This story seemed more focused on Lina's "gift" and Ian's quest than the development of their romance. I will read Rob and Muriella's story (even though I find her incredibly annoying) mostly to find out what happens to the villain and to see if her father gets his chiefdom back.
I am not sure if this is a spoiler - but I felt a bit cheated in the romance department - I never really saw the H/h fall in love - not even through inner dialogue - there was no real declarations (from either of them) and their passion was lukewarm at best.
This story seemed more focused on Lina's "gift" and Ian's quest than the development of their romance. I will read Rob and Muriella's story (even though I find her incredibly annoying) mostly to find out what happens to the villain and to see if her father gets his chiefdom back.
July 26, 2013
Lady Lachina “Lina” MacFarlan finds herself and her new sister-in-law taken by men who wish to do them harm, she finds an unusual rescuer Sir Ian Colquhoun. Ian sees no harm in flirting with Lina, her quick ability to speak her mind and the beauty she bestows are agreeable, however he had not expected to take her as wife. With both Lina and Ian easing into married life, Lina seems to be centered around the ability to find herself in trouble, and Ian has some very inventive ways of keeping her safe and making her listen.
Full review on Single Titles
http://singletitles.com/?p=9049
Full review on Single Titles
http://singletitles.com/?p=9049
August 10, 2016
Lady Lina MacFarlan and Sir Ian Colquhoun are an unlikely pair but, after he stages a daring rescue to save herself and her sister-in-law from capture, their interest in one another grows. I enjoyed not only the relationship between the Lina and Ian, but also the background story that takes place throughout the novel. The King tasks Sir Ian with taking back Castle Dumbarton and there is plenty of adventure and danger because of it.
It is the first in the series that I have read, so I now want to go back and read Andrena’s book. Can’t wait for the next one in the series after the teaser!
It is the first in the series that I have read, so I now want to go back and read Andrena’s book. Can’t wait for the next one in the series after the teaser!
August 11, 2016
I have to say at this point I can only give this a three.....I am a very avid reader and I don't have much problem reading books even if boring. This one I just could not get into....I know it is a second book and I just can't get into it. I will have to try and find the first one and see if I can then read it. So for now it will have to be placed in the To be read after I read the first book pile....yes I have one of those.....
August 6, 2013
I just finished this book I won through first reads and I am definitely going to pick up the others in the series! There is so much action mixed in with the romance in the story. I stayed up way too late because I couldn't put it down; I had to know what was going to happen next! I love the Scottish terms used throughout (there is a brief glossary in the front for some of the more obscure words). It was wonderfully written and very exciting.
July 26, 2016
This was a GoodReads FirstRead. While I don't generally care for romance novels, I did enjoy the setting and historical elements of this novel. The cultural elements also seemed authentic which made this an enjoyable read about two head strong people who fall in love with each other against their own best intentions. Giving the main female characters the ability to see or sense the future was also a nice touch.
So kudos to Amanda Scott for an entertaining history romance story.
So kudos to Amanda Scott for an entertaining history romance story.
September 19, 2013
This is my Second book I've read my Amanda Scott and I'm looking foreword to reading more I really enjoyed this book I loved Lina and Ian in the first book and glad to see this book about them they are perfect for each other I really liked learning more about the unusual powers that Lina, her sisters and mother all have. I also enjoyed reading about Ian's bravery for going into a dangerous situation to save Lina and Lizzy
July 30, 2013
I received this book free for an honest review. The Knight's Temptress is the second book in " The Lairds of the Loch" series. It can be read as a stand alone book. Amanda Scott has once again provided us with an adventurous and romantic story. I enjoyed the book and loved the characters Sir Ian and Lina. I recommend this book and can't wait to see if there are any more books in the series.
October 6, 2013
I found it hard to keep track of the characters initially, as so many were presented in short order. Perhaps it would have been less confusing had I read the first book in the series before this one. But once it got rolling, it followed a pretty predictable path. I was intrigued to learn the characters were based on historical figures.
September 13, 2013
This book started out with a lot of promise however it failed to keep my attention through the rest of the book. I did not like how quickly the main character agreed to marry, even though two pages before she said she wouldn't marry him.
September 17, 2013
It was an exciting Scottish Historical Romance. I found myself not able to put the book down. It was full of action as well as passion. A must read for those who enjoy historical romance.
October 15, 2013
It was good, a little to heavy on the "magic" element when I was expecting just historical fiction.
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