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Highland Brides #2

The Highlander's Reluctant Bride

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Determined to keep the Macrory clan holdings out of the clutches of the Lord of the Isles and marauding pirates, King Robert II sends his man, Lord Ranald Scott, to hold Scaurness Castle. There, Laird Macrory lies dying, awaiting word from his son who is missing on the battlefields of France. If the son is not found before the old laird dies, Ranald will take over as laird--and marry Laird Macrory's headstrong daughter.

Lady Caitriona sees no reason she cannot rule the clan in her brother's stead, and is bitterly disappointed with the king's decision to send a man to oversee the castle and its people. Not only is Ranald Scott only distantly related to the Macrory clan, but he was her childhood nemesis. She has little trust or like for him.

Her disappointment turns to panic when the king's plan is completely revealed and she realizes she must wed Ranald. Pirates, treachery, and a 4-year-old girl stand between her and Ranald's chance at happiness. What will it take for them to learn to trust each other and find the love they both deserve?

318 pages, ebook

First published March 15, 2014

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About the author

Cathy MacRae

39 books401 followers
Amazon best-selling author Cathy MacRae enjoys weaving tales of romance in the Highland mists. Her stories feature strong heroes and feisty heroines in pursuit of their happy-ever-afters in medieval Scotland.

When not writing, Cathy can be found curled up in a chair with a book or enjoying the outdoors with a German Shepherd or two. She is currently working on another Highland romance novel and planning her next trip to Scotland.

Sign up for her newsletter here: https://www.cathymacraeauthor.com/con...

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5 stars
297 (41%)
4 stars
253 (35%)
3 stars
120 (16%)
2 stars
40 (5%)
1 star
12 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
Profile Image for Celestine.
949 reviews104 followers
September 6, 2016
Familiar

There was nothing terribly original about this story, and pieces felt borrowed from other, better Highlander books. Nothing reached in and grabbed me, and maybe I felt this detachment due to the familiarity. At times I skimmed, especially near the end. 2.5 rounded to 3 stars.
Profile Image for Regan Walker.
Author 35 books767 followers
May 7, 2020
Set in the Highlands in 1377, this is the story of Lady Caitriona whose father, the laird, has just died. Unbeknownst to her, her father had asked King Robert II for help. The king sends Lord Ranald Scott to hold Scaurness Castle on Scotland’s western coast. Ranald has been told if the old king dies before his son returns from France, then he must take over as laird and marry the old laird’s daughter.

Caitriona would prefer to rule the clan in her brother’s stead and is not happy about being forced to wed her childhood friend she never liked. Added to that, she has a 4-year-old daughter, the product of a rape when she was 15, that she fears Ranald—like one of her other suitors—will reject.
This is a well-written story, albeit long at times. The author has done her research to make it authentic and that is good. I enjoyed Ranald and his friends and the castle life MacRae has created. Caitriona (“Riona” for short and pronounced “Ree-na”) is a worthy heroine who has overcome great difficulties to take her place at the head of her people, that is until Ranald arrived.
Treachery, battles, celebrations, a Highland wedding and an adorable child will keep you turning pages!
Profile Image for C.D. Hersh.
Author 8 books35 followers
July 7, 2014
Ranald the hero is sent by the King Robert of Scotland, at the request of Laird Macrory who is dying, to secure the Macory clan’s castle and marry the laird’s daughter. A marriage that is not well received by all concerned as Ranald is not of the clan.

Riona is the heroine, who has been allowed to learn about the workings of the clan and weapons by an indulgent father. Her brother has gone off to fight the English in France and is believed dead. She now becomes a pawn among the clans of the area who want to take control of the castle. When Ranald arrives he has grown into a man from the boy who used to visit on occasion and torment her life.

A story of intrigue, secrets, fighting, and love. This book keeps you wondering what is going to happen next and how the characters are going to react. They are multidimensional individuals who make mistakes in the action of the moment but then ask for forgiveness. The entwining of Riona and Ranald’s past with their present and the problems they encounter keeps you interested throughout the book.
Profile Image for Jane.
Author 6 books79 followers
December 30, 2016
Lord Ranald Scott comes to Scaurness Castle to hold it for the King. The old Laird Macrory, head of the clan is dying and with the strategic location of the castle at the opening of an important river and port it is important to keep it out of pirates hands and the Lord of the Isles.

He arrives to find the castle under attack and that is just the start of his troubles. He is also ordered by the kin to marry the old Laird's daughter to keep the Macrory Clan loyal to him and the king. Lady Caitriona has other idea until she finally becomes The Highlander's Reluctant Bride.

If you like strong alpha male Scottish heroes, beautiful strong women and loyal clans with an added bonus of a wee small girl full of fun and questions that add humor, this is wonderful book for you.
Profile Image for MaryD.
1,697 reviews3 followers
November 14, 2016
Excellent story! I liked that Lady Caitriona was strong, despite being raped when she was 15, yet not a brat. Even when she is told she has to marry Lord Ranald Scott at the king's command, she is willing to give him the benefit of the doubt and maybe learn to love him. What they don't know is that there are traitors in their midst and that an evil from the past is going to return.
Profile Image for Raine Balkera.
Author 3 books13 followers
March 15, 2018
Is this another of those originally published back in the 70s novels re-written to soothe today's butt-hurt crowd?
It read that way to me.
Although not badly written and with fewer GPS issues than normal for most Romance novels, I still did not enjoy this one.
Too predictable, what with the author dropping major hints straight away, thus taking from me any chance for what-if's or an element of surprise later in the story.
Too much modern, PC-minded bull for me to become immersed in what is supposed to be 1377 Scotland Romance.
The thoroughly 21st Century thoughts, feelings, and mannerisms of the heroine, and the Metrosexual-behaving Hero who was about as flawless and thoughtful a 1377 Scottish Highlander as they came.
Adding a child to the mix made it worse, further sealing my not-interested opinion of this surprisingly well-written tale of Reluctance at every turn.
Nothing screams romance louder than a toddler running around in almost every scene to jolt the reader out of woo-hoo, eh Moms?
I'm likely to be in the minority here, but why don't authors who truly believe in feminism, modern mentality without question, and Men Just Suck Because... stick to the Contemporary Romance genre, where they are more suited to voice their personal opinion in every chapter and create characters who fully agree with everything the author believes?
Please, kindly stop cramming your modern moral outlook down my throat in your FICTIONAL ROMANCE novels!
I cannot see Fictional Romance written this way (opinion-laden and 21st Century) as being able to stand the test of time, and that is a real shame.
Or, will it still be a 'thing' in 30 years for opinionated strangers to re-write someone else's work to better suit their own moral outlook on life?
*Sigh
127 reviews3 followers
November 22, 2017
Catriona takes 20% of the story to get

over her bad temper and accept that.she is a fourteenth century , rather old to be still unmarried and not a twenty first century free to choose shrew .
Anyhow , the Lairdy is " no sae bad" Good with dogs and horses and her wee accidental daughter . Not bad looking either .
So a non eventful few long days preparing for the wedding , a long long wedding , with under tones of been here said that . A standard first night bedroom scene .
So while they are putting off going back to the castle , maybe to get some peace from wee Gilda , it is taken by.pirates and the rest is worth reading , well., sort of

I admit I did a lot of speed reading.
393 reviews
February 27, 2018
Exciting and romantic! ⭐️❤⭐❤⭐❤⭐❤⭐❤

I believe this is the most exciting book I have ever read! I could hardly bear the tension at times. I could bear to have it end but the I couldn't bear not knowing what was going to happen next! Both the hero and heroine were fantastic and deserving of the bale. Just wow! This was a reference to the previous book and it sounded very interesting so I'm reading that next.
Profile Image for Katherine B..
852 reviews23 followers
November 2, 2021
What the Heck?

Okay, so I just really didn’t enjoy this book. It started out decently enough, even if the Scottish accent being written out so heavily is annoying. However, this book went from an interesting story to a drama fest with so many plot holes there was practically nothing that could be done to salvage it. The only reason I finished it was because I was enjoying making fun of it with my friend.
180 reviews9 followers
November 28, 2017
Reluctant Bride

For centuries, women were but pawns used by men. Riona lived in a castle which was important to both King Robert of Scotland and the King of the Isles. Who will gain the lands of her birth after her father, The Laird, dies?
Profile Image for Charlotte Lowe.
808 reviews
January 14, 2018
The Highlander's Reluctant Bride

Castles, pirates, treachery, dictates and trust all mix together to tell the story of Ranald and Ree. It's a good story with twists and turns along the way.
1,985 reviews6 followers
April 26, 2018
Excellent

Plenty of excitement, always something different going on. The treachery was almost to much, but it went with the times. To be pressed into marriage by you king, you forget that women were property.
Profile Image for Joanne Moynihan.
272 reviews1 follower
December 3, 2017
Romance in the Highlands

The story had much substance among the characters. It had various twists and turns which kept my attention. Always like a happy ending
49 reviews
December 20, 2017
A Wonderful Story!

Riona and Ronald are great characters! Loved the castle by the sea and the fight scenes had me holding my breath. Couldn’t put the book down.
Profile Image for Jan Herman.
51 reviews
December 23, 2017
Good Parents

Good story of how a nontraditional family came into being. There could have been a little more depth presented in the clans interrelationships.
2 reviews
December 28, 2017
Great read

Well written. You will become one with the characters. Get ready to live the life of Highlander and all those around him.
Profile Image for Kim.
97 reviews
June 1, 2018
Well written, story is not very unique but it was good because of the quality of the writing
Profile Image for Sharon.
1,252 reviews16 followers
July 15, 2018
Tragedy, dislike, numerous foes, attraction, This one keeps you reading non-stop. On to the next in this series.
38 reviews
April 5, 2020
Love Scottish

Great love of the times of my ancestors. It is good for a love story of the time of Scotland.
329 reviews5 followers
January 27, 2021
I like the ending better in this book but it was just a regular romance. Nice but nothing shocking.
Profile Image for Sandy S.
6,676 reviews171 followers
May 15, 2014
4.25 stars


ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 15, 2014

Determined to keep the Macrory clan holdings out of the clutches of the Lord of the Isles and marauding pirates, King Robert II sends his man, Lord Ranald Scott, to hold Scaurness Castle. There, Laird Macrory lies dying, awaiting word from his son who is missing on the battlefields of France. If the son is not found before the old laird dies, Ranald will take over as laird--and marry Laird Macrory's headstrong daughter.

Lady Caitriona sees no reason she cannot rule the clan in her brother's stead, and is bitterly disappointed with the king's decision to send a man to oversee the castle and its people. Not only is Ranald Scott only distantly related to the Macrory clan, but he was her childhood nemesis. She has little trust or like for him.

Her disappointment turns to panic when the king's plan is completely revealed and she realizes she must wed Ranald. Pirates, treachery, and a 4-year-old girl stand between her and Ranald's chance at happiness. What will it take for them to learn to trust each other and find the love they both deserve?

~~~~~~~~~~

REVIEW: THE HIGHLANDER’S RELUCTANT BRIDE is the second instalment in Cathy MacRae’s Highlander historical romance series. This is Lord Ranald Scott and Lady Riona Macrory’s story. Following the death of Laird Macrory, King Robert sends Ranald to Scaurness Castle to secure and assume the position of Laird. To establish ownership, Ranald is ordered to marry Lady Macrory and is not surprise when she denies any claim of marriage. The two have a prior history that goes back a number of years.

The premise focuses on the building relationship between Ranald and Riona as well as defending the castle from would be claimants-a one time friend of the former Laird: and the head of the Laird’s guards. When treachery and treason is suspected Ranald must ensure his position of authority or lose control of the castle and the men.

The relationship between Ranald and Riona began as children but neither had seen one another in years. Their attraction to one another is immediate although both deny feelings or their emotions. But Riona hides a secret that she believes will push Ranald away and in doing so will discover that her past has come back to claim what he believes belongs to him. When Riona chooses her past over her present Ranald knows that the future he promised was never going to happen.

The world building continues with the inclusion of Laird Eaden Scott (Ranald’s brother) from the first storyline. With the backdrop of Scottish castles and the salt water ocean you can feel the moisture and dew on the misty shores. The secondary characters include family, friends and enemies all carefully placed who reveal bits and pieces about the history of the family and the guards.

Cathy MacRae pulls the reader into a romantic storyline of struggle, betrayal, heartbreak and love. The Highlander storylines are always a favorite genre for many romance readers and THE HIGHLANDER’S RELUCTANT BRIDE is the perfect romance read for love in the afternoon.

copy supplied by the author

www.thereadingcafe.com
Profile Image for Mary Yarde.
Author 6 books146 followers
July 29, 2016
dying and his only son, Kennon, is missing, presumed dead. Not wanting Macrory's lands to fall to the Lord of the Isles, or heaven forbid, pirates, King Robert II sends Lord Ranald Scott, to not only secure the lands but also to marry Laird Macrory's only daughter, Lady Caitriona ( Riona).

All Riona remembers of Ranald Scott is that he found her an annoying nuisance as a child and once, accidently, pushed her over a cliff! Riona does not like the man, why on earth would she want to marry him? There are other reasons why she shy's from marriage, when she was 15 she was cruelly raped. That rape resulted in a little girl, Gilda. Riona will do everything within her power to protect her daughter.

This story is so full of atmosphere. MacRae has crafted a beautiful love story set in a desperate time where treachery seems to lurk around every corner. This book had it all, a great romance, a fantastic plot and characters that were believable.

I thought the budding romance between Ranald And Riona was lovely, and I liked the way their relationship developed over the course of the novel.

There were a few historical inaccuracies that I would like not to have seen. Contrary to popular belief, the kilt didn't become a popular form of men’s wear until the late 17th Century - Braveheart has a lot to answer for! Instead, they wore brats or tartan cloaks. However, I can understand, for the sake of the romance, why the kilts were included - we all love a Scot in a kilt!

I enjoyed this novel. It was fast paced and so full of drama that it kept me turning those pages.

A well executed and engaging read.
Profile Image for Jeene Hobbs.
558 reviews1 follower
July 23, 2015
Ranald's story

In book 2, Ranald is sent by the king to secure Saurness Castle and marry Riona upon the old laird's death. Ranald and Riona knew each other as children and weren't especially fond of each other. Also there is the presence of little Gilda and her unhappy conception. There are many who wish to claim the castle, the laird ship, or Riona, as well.

This is another good story of an understanding man attempting to help a woman live her life after sexual abuse. It's about rebuilding trust and learning to live and love.

The treachery and sword fighting near the end are good additions and well written.

If you liked this book, try Ceci Geltenan, Duncurra book 2, Tadgh and Mairead's story.
Profile Image for Kat Green.
1,015 reviews14 followers
October 25, 2015
Redheads can be reluctant.

I loved this book filled with excitement, history, love and romance. Set in Scotland of course, it's difficult not to insinuate yourself into the story. Standing on the sidelines, not visible, but there makes you feel included with the characters! All were well developed, and the plot fell right into many historical facts. Well done, to say the least! This is a must read in my opinion, and I don't want to give away any of the story... but I will say... I grew attached to Guilda. (If there are errors in my reviews, it's this stupid auto correct.)
Profile Image for Tracey.
771 reviews2 followers
December 30, 2015
4.5 stars I loved the first book in this series and hoped this one would be as good it was even better.Ranald and Riona's story had drama, romance, tension,pirates and an adorable little girl that steals the show.A tale of love overcoming obstacles past and present well written characters and a heroine with strength and character in spades would definitely recommend Historical romance at it's best.Looking forward to the next one.
Profile Image for Jalyn C. Wade.
26 reviews
January 1, 2016
Well written

I really enjoyed the pacing of this novel. She does a great job with dialogue. The only reason for a four star rating is the lack of formatting between points of view. Sometimes it was difficult to discern what was happening and who was speaking because of it. Overall, a great read. Loved the characters and their relationship. Well done. I will read more from this author.
Profile Image for Ann Gonzalez.
1,267 reviews12 followers
June 26, 2016
This book was just as good as book one. It is a stand alone, but I recommend reading book one first. Riona is the heroine that is being forced to marry after her father's death. She has trust issues and secrets. Ranald is the hero that was sent to become Laird and Fiona's husband. He is fierce, but loving. Great story full of suspense, conflict, and action.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews

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