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Made to Marry #1
Caught by the Scot
Caught by the Scot is a fabulously witty and irresistibly sexy Scottish historical romance from New York Times bestseller Karen Hawkins. Fans of Julia Quinn, Monica McCarty and Julie Garwood will be won over by the spellbinding Made to Marry series.
When the dark Duke of Hamilton loses his beloved wife, he heeds her dying wish that he make certain her three brothers marry well for she fears they are all headed to ruin. Heartsick, the Duke approaches the task with a heavy hand, ordering the three brothers to marry within three months or forego their inheritance.
The middle brother, the dashing Conner Douglas, is not about to give up his independence, but he knows marriage doesn't always mean one must change, does it? If anything, being married to a pliable sort of female would give him even more opportunity to seduce the married women of the ton. So he heads straight for the most pliable female he knows - a childhood acquaintance and now mousy spinster, the English born and bred Miss Theodora Cumberbatch-Snowe.
Conner is so certain Theodora will joyously agree to marry him, that he takes his time traveling to her house and has only one month to secure her hand and marry. Yet when he arrives at her parents' house he discovers that Theodora has just run away with a local landowner—a farmer, no less! Unknown to Conner, Theodora has been wildly, passionately in love with him for years. But she's accepted that he sees her only as a friend. Unable to sit forever in her parents' front parlor and wait for what will never happen, Theodora decided to marry someone comfortable in the hopes they might at least become good partners.
Unaware of Theodora's feelings, Conner isn't about to let 'the perfect wife' get away so easily. But as Conner seduces Theodora, his own feelings stir. And after surviving a trip of mishaps and traps, he discovers that he can't image her marrying anyone but him.
When the dark Duke of Hamilton loses his beloved wife, he heeds her dying wish that he make certain her three brothers marry well for she fears they are all headed to ruin. Heartsick, the Duke approaches the task with a heavy hand, ordering the three brothers to marry within three months or forego their inheritance.
The middle brother, the dashing Conner Douglas, is not about to give up his independence, but he knows marriage doesn't always mean one must change, does it? If anything, being married to a pliable sort of female would give him even more opportunity to seduce the married women of the ton. So he heads straight for the most pliable female he knows - a childhood acquaintance and now mousy spinster, the English born and bred Miss Theodora Cumberbatch-Snowe.
Conner is so certain Theodora will joyously agree to marry him, that he takes his time traveling to her house and has only one month to secure her hand and marry. Yet when he arrives at her parents' house he discovers that Theodora has just run away with a local landowner—a farmer, no less! Unknown to Conner, Theodora has been wildly, passionately in love with him for years. But she's accepted that he sees her only as a friend. Unable to sit forever in her parents' front parlor and wait for what will never happen, Theodora decided to marry someone comfortable in the hopes they might at least become good partners.
Unaware of Theodora's feelings, Conner isn't about to let 'the perfect wife' get away so easily. But as Conner seduces Theodora, his own feelings stir. And after surviving a trip of mishaps and traps, he discovers that he can't image her marrying anyone but him.
384 pages, Paperback
First published September 26, 2017
135 people are currently reading
785 people want to read
About the author
Karen Hawkins
57 books2,971 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Karen Hawkins writes novels that have been praised as touching, witty, charming, and heartwarming. A native Southerner who grew up in the mountains of East Tennessee where storytelling is a way of life, Karen recently moved to frosty New England with her beloved husband and multiple foster dogs. The Dove Pond books are a nod to the thousands of books that opened doors to more adventures, places, and discoveries than she ever imagined possible. To find out more about Karen, follow her at:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 219 reviews
September 26, 2017
3.5 Sexy Scot Stars
Connor Douglas has a problem. Viewed as not fit for society due to their pirating and misbehavior, Connor and his brothers are hit with a bit of shocking news after the passing of their older sister and guardian: find wives and settle down or the family money goes to their horrible cousins. Faced with that unacceptable option, Connor devises a plan to marry and keep the lifestyle he’s grown accustomed to (drinking, sailing and general whoring around) in-tact.
Did I mention he’s Scottish?
“A lass with the guid sense nae to try and change us. Someone nae demanding. A woman of calm disposition, nae given to dramatic scenes or possessive tantrums, who—” Good God, he knew a woman like that. Only one, but one was enough. Thea.
Theodora Cumberbatch-Snowe has been in love with her brother’s best friend Connor since she was a young teenager. Unfortunately she realizes he’s never seen her as a romantic possibility, no matter how well they get along.. Now twenty six and unmarried, Thea knows her chance for love and marriage with Connor has sailed. Forced to travel with her diplomat father for most of her life, Thea longs to put down roots and start a family of her own. When a handsome vicar proposes an elopement, she readily agrees and the two start their journey to get hitched.
When Connor arrives seeking marriage to Thea (she’ll be so grateful, doncha know) and finds out she’s on her way to elope, he sets out to prove to her that if she’s going to marry anyone, it should be him.
Cards on the table, I love me some Scottish highlanderish action. I tell myself it’s because I’m a quarter Scottish and I’m just being loyal to my genetic makeup but I think my affection may be a little more lascivious than that. As much as I enjoyed Connor and all of his kilt-wearing hotness, the romance fell a little flat for me. Connor’s gradual realization that Thea’s pretty wonderful and she’s been under his nose for a good portion of his life was one of my favorite aspects of the story but Thea’s constant “he travels too much for work” laments felt a little like the same song on repeat after a while. After that much time spent loving him, you’d think she’d try and find a way to make it work.
That being said, I did enjoy how strong minded Thea was. She wasn’t afraid to voice her opinions and fight for her best interests when necessary and her scenes with her new fiancé gave the book some levity. I would’ve enjoyed a little more time spent with her and Connor as a couple so I could enjoy some of their happily ever after.
This is my first Karen Hawkins historical romance and I was not disappointed. I’m already looking forward to Connor’s brothers fighting their own marriage battles.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Connor Douglas has a problem. Viewed as not fit for society due to their pirating and misbehavior, Connor and his brothers are hit with a bit of shocking news after the passing of their older sister and guardian: find wives and settle down or the family money goes to their horrible cousins. Faced with that unacceptable option, Connor devises a plan to marry and keep the lifestyle he’s grown accustomed to (drinking, sailing and general whoring around) in-tact.
Did I mention he’s Scottish?
“A lass with the guid sense nae to try and change us. Someone nae demanding. A woman of calm disposition, nae given to dramatic scenes or possessive tantrums, who—” Good God, he knew a woman like that. Only one, but one was enough. Thea.
Theodora Cumberbatch-Snowe has been in love with her brother’s best friend Connor since she was a young teenager. Unfortunately she realizes he’s never seen her as a romantic possibility, no matter how well they get along.. Now twenty six and unmarried, Thea knows her chance for love and marriage with Connor has sailed. Forced to travel with her diplomat father for most of her life, Thea longs to put down roots and start a family of her own. When a handsome vicar proposes an elopement, she readily agrees and the two start their journey to get hitched.
When Connor arrives seeking marriage to Thea (she’ll be so grateful, doncha know) and finds out she’s on her way to elope, he sets out to prove to her that if she’s going to marry anyone, it should be him.
Cards on the table, I love me some Scottish highlanderish action. I tell myself it’s because I’m a quarter Scottish and I’m just being loyal to my genetic makeup but I think my affection may be a little more lascivious than that. As much as I enjoyed Connor and all of his kilt-wearing hotness, the romance fell a little flat for me. Connor’s gradual realization that Thea’s pretty wonderful and she’s been under his nose for a good portion of his life was one of my favorite aspects of the story but Thea’s constant “he travels too much for work” laments felt a little like the same song on repeat after a while. After that much time spent loving him, you’d think she’d try and find a way to make it work.
That being said, I did enjoy how strong minded Thea was. She wasn’t afraid to voice her opinions and fight for her best interests when necessary and her scenes with her new fiancé gave the book some levity. I would’ve enjoyed a little more time spent with her and Connor as a couple so I could enjoy some of their happily ever after.
This is my first Karen Hawkins historical romance and I was not disappointed. I’m already looking forward to Connor’s brothers fighting their own marriage battles.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
July 12, 2021
It was dragged to the moon and back.
September 16, 2017
So let me start with what I liked about this book.
1. Thea. I thought she was wonderful. She was sticking to her guns till the very end. She knew what she wanted and felt that Conner could not be the one to give it to her so she held firm and refused to give in. Good for her.
2. Everyone else but Connor. The rest of the cast was fun and quirky although Jane was a little whinny.
3. Connor. In the end he grew on me but I hated him for 90% of the book. Why did I hate Connor so much? Well now for spoilers.......
Before I get into it let me say that i am not a fan of manwhores heros but since HR is my favorite genre I have come to expect them. This book did not hit my triggers of cheating or detailed sex scenes with other women so that was good. But Connor was a definite manwhore. Ready for the spoiler? After deciding to marry Thea he goes off on a 5 week drinking and whoring binge which I may have been able to brush aside but...... then he shows up at her house to tell her he has decided to marry her with his "nether regions" exposed and a naked woman asleep in his coach. So gross. Even one of his shipmates that work for him commented that might not be the best idea. But he is so arrogant that he brushes him off and goes inside to find out that Thea has eloped with another man. So he immediately goes after her because she is his (obviously he is not hers) and catches up to her where he then kisses her. Are you serious. Have you washed the other woman from your body. Where has his mouth been. I was disgusted. If that's not bad enough he loans Thea and Lance is carriage to "help" them elope so he can sabotage the whole thing. So let me get this straight you now want the woman you want to marry (and he really wants her now that they shared a passionate kiss) to get in the carriage where you f***ed another woman two days ago. Again has this thing been cleaned? Disgusting.
I was so disgusted I couldn't get over it. It ruined the whole book for me. I kept flip flopping between not wanting Thea to find out because I don't want her hurt and wanting her to find out so she could leave his ass. The fact that he had so little respect for his "friend" and future wife really turned me off.
So while Connor did grow on me and he did have some excellent character development I can not give this more than a 2.5. This scene had no bearing on the story. It added nothing to the plot. If he had gone on his drinking and whoring binge and then left it behind and shown up clean and sober and alone I would have been fine with it and this would have been a solid 4.
1. Thea. I thought she was wonderful. She was sticking to her guns till the very end. She knew what she wanted and felt that Conner could not be the one to give it to her so she held firm and refused to give in. Good for her.
2. Everyone else but Connor. The rest of the cast was fun and quirky although Jane was a little whinny.
3. Connor. In the end he grew on me but I hated him for 90% of the book. Why did I hate Connor so much? Well now for spoilers.......
Before I get into it let me say that i am not a fan of manwhores heros but since HR is my favorite genre I have come to expect them. This book did not hit my triggers of cheating or detailed sex scenes with other women so that was good. But Connor was a definite manwhore. Ready for the spoiler? After deciding to marry Thea he goes off on a 5 week drinking and whoring binge which I may have been able to brush aside but...... then he shows up at her house to tell her he has decided to marry her with his "nether regions" exposed and a naked woman asleep in his coach. So gross. Even one of his shipmates that work for him commented that might not be the best idea. But he is so arrogant that he brushes him off and goes inside to find out that Thea has eloped with another man. So he immediately goes after her because she is his (obviously he is not hers) and catches up to her where he then kisses her. Are you serious. Have you washed the other woman from your body. Where has his mouth been. I was disgusted. If that's not bad enough he loans Thea and Lance is carriage to "help" them elope so he can sabotage the whole thing. So let me get this straight you now want the woman you want to marry (and he really wants her now that they shared a passionate kiss) to get in the carriage where you f***ed another woman two days ago. Again has this thing been cleaned? Disgusting.
I was so disgusted I couldn't get over it. It ruined the whole book for me. I kept flip flopping between not wanting Thea to find out because I don't want her hurt and wanting her to find out so she could leave his ass. The fact that he had so little respect for his "friend" and future wife really turned me off.
So while Connor did grow on me and he did have some excellent character development I can not give this more than a 2.5. This scene had no bearing on the story. It added nothing to the plot. If he had gone on his drinking and whoring binge and then left it behind and shown up clean and sober and alone I would have been fine with it and this would have been a solid 4.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2017
B-, so 3.5 stars rounded up.
Caught by the Scot is the first in a new series from Karen Hawkins which features a trio of brothers who are given four months in which to get married if they are to receive their respective inheritances under the terms of their sister’s will. It’s an undemanding and very readable friends-to-lovers story in which the principal conflict comes from the fact that the hero and heroine want different things from life, and it’s touch-and-go as to whether they are prepared to compromise in order to be together.
In a sombre, almost heart-breaking opening chapter, we learn of the death in childbed of Anna, the Duchess of Hamilton, who has left behind a baby son, a grieving widower and the three younger brothers to whom she was more of a mother than a sister. One of Anna’s dearest wishes was to see her brothers happily settled with families of their own, and in order to honour that wish, her husband presents Connor, Jack and Declan Douglas with an ultimatum; get married within four months or forfeit the fortune left them by their sister. The brothers aren’t best pleased and, as each of them is quite secure financially, they aren’t too worried at the prospect of forfeiting the money – until the Duke tells them that he will give it to their family’s greatest enemies, the Campbells, if they do not do as Anna wished.
The brothers agree to the terms and are discussing the sort of wives they want when Conner hits upon the perfect solution to his situation. Theodora Cumberbatch-Snowe, the sister of one of his best friends is well-born, practical and pretty enough, although rather quiet - and, as the daughter of a diplomat, will have no trouble managing his household in his frequent and lengthy absences overseas. She’s on the shelf and is sure to be grateful for his offer, so Connor confidently expects to be able to do as his sister wanted within the time limit and decides to enjoy the last of his bachelorhood, nonchalantly waving off his brothers’ surprise that he isn’t going to propose to Thea straight away. But Conner isn’t worried. Thea’s safely stowed at her father’s house and will be waiting for him when he eventually shows up, right?
Wrong.
When Conner finally emerges from his month long carouse and arrives at Cumberbatch House, it’s to find the place in uproar following Thea’s elopement with a local squire. Needless to say, Connor is shocked – and furious – that Thea hasn’t been calmly sitting there waiting for him, and sets off in pursuit, determined to bring her to her senses and make her his bride.
Thea has been in love with Conner for years, but knows he has never seen her as anything but his best friend’s little sister. She also knows that Conner loves nothing so much as his career as a highly successful privateer; he loves the freedom to come and go as he pleases and doesn’t like staying in one place too long, things which are diametrically opposed to those Thea wants from life. Having spent most of her life travelling with her parents as her father moved from one ambassadorial post to another, she is tired of not having anywhere she can really call home. So when the handsome and very agreeable Squire Lance Fox starts courting her, she encourages his interest and accepts his proposal of marriage.
For once, Thea is going to do something exciting and unexpected… except she bargains without Lance’s inept driving which lands them in a ditch and their vehicle in need of repair. This delay enables Conner to catch up with them at the first inn he comes to – and he almost immediately makes Thea the most arrogant, condescending marriage offer ever, to which she, not surprisingly, says an emphatic “no”.
Once Conner has recovered from the shock of being turned down in favour of another man he decides to try to convince Thea to break her engagement by proving to her that there is true passion between them. But no matter how knee-weakening Conner’s kisses, Thea knows he’s wedded to the sea and is not the man to make her a home and spend his life at her side. She continues to resist his sensual blandishments, at which point Conner realises he needs to change tack. Rather than trying to sweep her off her feet, she needs to spend enough time with Lance to see what Conner has already seen – that she and her devoted fiancé are completely ill-suited. Lance believes Thea to be something she’s not and Conner knows that he’ll drive her barmy within weeks. Lance has the idea that Thea is a perfect specimen of demure womanhood and will meekly accept his every instruction and suggestion without complaint, whereas Conner knows all too well that Thea has a brain and knows how to use it; she’s not afraid to voice her own opinions and most definitely won’t appreciate being treated like some sort of delicate flower.
Conner’s machinations – which include engaging the most unsuitable chaperone in the history of chaperones – are devious and sometimes amusing, especially when they backfire and only make the likelihood of Thea’s changing her mind even more remote. I liked that Thea is wise to his game, and also that as the ill-fated elopement continues, she sheds her rose-tinted view of Conner and sees him as the man he really is. And Conner, well… he starts out seeming like a conceited git; he’s so sure that Thea will fall into his arms and weep with gratitude at the prospect of marrying him, yet it’s telling that she’s the first – and only – woman he thinks of when he learns he has to find a wife. Of course, it takes the prospect of losing Thea to open Conner’s eyes to the truth of his feelings for her and for him to realise that he wants her enough to consider making some substantial changes to his way of life so that they can be together.
Ms. Hawkins writes with a very sure hand; the relationship between Conner and Thea is well drawn and the dialogue is sharp and often funny, but while I enjoyed Caught by the Scot, it didn’t have that certain something that elevated it from the merely “good”, and didn’t really offer anything I haven’t read hundreds of times before. I also got very tired very quickly of the written out dialect; all the “dinnae”s and “cannae”s and “mon”s and “verra”s that are so often found in stories featuring Scottish characters, and which are completely unnecessary. It’s not that I found the text difficult to read or understand, it’s just an affectation that annoys me; the author tells us this character is a Scot, so unless I’m told otherwise, they have a Scottish accent which I’m quite capable of imagining for myself.
With that said, fans of sexy Scottish heroes should find much to enjoy in Caught by the Scot, which is by turns poignant, sensual and funny. I may well stick around for the next book to see how the next Douglas brother is Made to Marry .
Caught by the Scot is the first in a new series from Karen Hawkins which features a trio of brothers who are given four months in which to get married if they are to receive their respective inheritances under the terms of their sister’s will. It’s an undemanding and very readable friends-to-lovers story in which the principal conflict comes from the fact that the hero and heroine want different things from life, and it’s touch-and-go as to whether they are prepared to compromise in order to be together.
In a sombre, almost heart-breaking opening chapter, we learn of the death in childbed of Anna, the Duchess of Hamilton, who has left behind a baby son, a grieving widower and the three younger brothers to whom she was more of a mother than a sister. One of Anna’s dearest wishes was to see her brothers happily settled with families of their own, and in order to honour that wish, her husband presents Connor, Jack and Declan Douglas with an ultimatum; get married within four months or forfeit the fortune left them by their sister. The brothers aren’t best pleased and, as each of them is quite secure financially, they aren’t too worried at the prospect of forfeiting the money – until the Duke tells them that he will give it to their family’s greatest enemies, the Campbells, if they do not do as Anna wished.
The brothers agree to the terms and are discussing the sort of wives they want when Conner hits upon the perfect solution to his situation. Theodora Cumberbatch-Snowe, the sister of one of his best friends is well-born, practical and pretty enough, although rather quiet - and, as the daughter of a diplomat, will have no trouble managing his household in his frequent and lengthy absences overseas. She’s on the shelf and is sure to be grateful for his offer, so Connor confidently expects to be able to do as his sister wanted within the time limit and decides to enjoy the last of his bachelorhood, nonchalantly waving off his brothers’ surprise that he isn’t going to propose to Thea straight away. But Conner isn’t worried. Thea’s safely stowed at her father’s house and will be waiting for him when he eventually shows up, right?
Wrong.
When Conner finally emerges from his month long carouse and arrives at Cumberbatch House, it’s to find the place in uproar following Thea’s elopement with a local squire. Needless to say, Connor is shocked – and furious – that Thea hasn’t been calmly sitting there waiting for him, and sets off in pursuit, determined to bring her to her senses and make her his bride.
Thea has been in love with Conner for years, but knows he has never seen her as anything but his best friend’s little sister. She also knows that Conner loves nothing so much as his career as a highly successful privateer; he loves the freedom to come and go as he pleases and doesn’t like staying in one place too long, things which are diametrically opposed to those Thea wants from life. Having spent most of her life travelling with her parents as her father moved from one ambassadorial post to another, she is tired of not having anywhere she can really call home. So when the handsome and very agreeable Squire Lance Fox starts courting her, she encourages his interest and accepts his proposal of marriage.
For once, Thea is going to do something exciting and unexpected… except she bargains without Lance’s inept driving which lands them in a ditch and their vehicle in need of repair. This delay enables Conner to catch up with them at the first inn he comes to – and he almost immediately makes Thea the most arrogant, condescending marriage offer ever, to which she, not surprisingly, says an emphatic “no”.
Once Conner has recovered from the shock of being turned down in favour of another man he decides to try to convince Thea to break her engagement by proving to her that there is true passion between them. But no matter how knee-weakening Conner’s kisses, Thea knows he’s wedded to the sea and is not the man to make her a home and spend his life at her side. She continues to resist his sensual blandishments, at which point Conner realises he needs to change tack. Rather than trying to sweep her off her feet, she needs to spend enough time with Lance to see what Conner has already seen – that she and her devoted fiancé are completely ill-suited. Lance believes Thea to be something she’s not and Conner knows that he’ll drive her barmy within weeks. Lance has the idea that Thea is a perfect specimen of demure womanhood and will meekly accept his every instruction and suggestion without complaint, whereas Conner knows all too well that Thea has a brain and knows how to use it; she’s not afraid to voice her own opinions and most definitely won’t appreciate being treated like some sort of delicate flower.
Conner’s machinations – which include engaging the most unsuitable chaperone in the history of chaperones – are devious and sometimes amusing, especially when they backfire and only make the likelihood of Thea’s changing her mind even more remote. I liked that Thea is wise to his game, and also that as the ill-fated elopement continues, she sheds her rose-tinted view of Conner and sees him as the man he really is. And Conner, well… he starts out seeming like a conceited git; he’s so sure that Thea will fall into his arms and weep with gratitude at the prospect of marrying him, yet it’s telling that she’s the first – and only – woman he thinks of when he learns he has to find a wife. Of course, it takes the prospect of losing Thea to open Conner’s eyes to the truth of his feelings for her and for him to realise that he wants her enough to consider making some substantial changes to his way of life so that they can be together.
Ms. Hawkins writes with a very sure hand; the relationship between Conner and Thea is well drawn and the dialogue is sharp and often funny, but while I enjoyed Caught by the Scot, it didn’t have that certain something that elevated it from the merely “good”, and didn’t really offer anything I haven’t read hundreds of times before. I also got very tired very quickly of the written out dialect; all the “dinnae”s and “cannae”s and “mon”s and “verra”s that are so often found in stories featuring Scottish characters, and which are completely unnecessary. It’s not that I found the text difficult to read or understand, it’s just an affectation that annoys me; the author tells us this character is a Scot, so unless I’m told otherwise, they have a Scottish accent which I’m quite capable of imagining for myself.
With that said, fans of sexy Scottish heroes should find much to enjoy in Caught by the Scot, which is by turns poignant, sensual and funny. I may well stick around for the next book to see how the next Douglas brother is Made to Marry .
September 26, 2017
'Caught by the Scot' by Karen Hawkins is the First Book in the New Series "Made to Marry". This is the story of Conner Douglas and Theodora Cumberbatch-Snowe.
Conner's sister has died and with that has left in her last wishes that her three brothers marry. If they do not marry then their inheritance will go to the Campbell's who they hate. Conner knows he has the perfect 'wife' for him, his best friends sister Thea. Thea has loved Conner much of her life. But she has since given up on him noticing her or making a move toward her. So she has settle to accept Lance's proposal to run off to Scotland to marry. When Conner finally makes it to where home to claim Theo he learns she has left with Lance. So now Conner heads out to claim his bride.
I love Ms. Hawkins writing and so happy for this new series!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
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Conner's sister has died and with that has left in her last wishes that her three brothers marry. If they do not marry then their inheritance will go to the Campbell's who they hate. Conner knows he has the perfect 'wife' for him, his best friends sister Thea. Thea has loved Conner much of her life. But she has since given up on him noticing her or making a move toward her. So she has settle to accept Lance's proposal to run off to Scotland to marry. When Conner finally makes it to where home to claim Theo he learns she has left with Lance. So now Conner heads out to claim his bride.
I love Ms. Hawkins writing and so happy for this new series!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H...
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR...
September 26, 2017
A truly delightful read. CAUGHT BY THE SCOT delivers a story full of charm, wit, and love.
Upon the death of their beloved sister, the Douglas brothers are faced with her dying wish to see them all settled and well married. It is a wish her widow, the Duke of Hamilton, plans to see to fruition. He gives each of the brothers mere months to find a respectable bride or lose their inheritance to the Campbells, their arch-rivals.
As a successful privateer and incorrigible rake, Conner Douglas has no need for the income and responsibilities that come with his inheritance, but he will not stand for it to go to their rivals. He needs a biddable, respectable wife that will allow him his freedom… Fast.
And he has the perfect candidate in mind. His dear friend’s sister, Thea.
Secretly in love with Conner for years, Thea Cumberbatch-Snowe has grown tired of being alone and has given up hope that he will one day return her affections. So, when the handsome and friendly local Squire, Lancelot Fox, proposes, she accepts and they elope to Gretna Green.
When Conner arrives at her family home just in time to find her gone, he’s dumbfounded. His one and only option, he races the path to Gretna Green determined to stop her and make her his wife. Only when he finds her, she’s not as grateful as he expected her to be.
It’s here that the fun began for me. I had an expectation of how the book would go and the author surprised me by going in a slightly different direction. The lengths Conner goes to, to achieve his goal of splitting up Thea and Lance while winning her hand, is hilarious. Witty banter between these two is rapid fire and so much fun. And the cast of secondary characters had me in fits of giggles with their antics.
If you are looking for a lighthearted, fast read with loads of wit and charm, grab this book. I’m looking forward to the antics of the other Douglas brothers as they search for their wives in the next books. CAUGHT BY THE SCOT is the first book in the Made to Marry series.
A copy was provided to CGSR Book Blog via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Upon the death of their beloved sister, the Douglas brothers are faced with her dying wish to see them all settled and well married. It is a wish her widow, the Duke of Hamilton, plans to see to fruition. He gives each of the brothers mere months to find a respectable bride or lose their inheritance to the Campbells, their arch-rivals.
As a successful privateer and incorrigible rake, Conner Douglas has no need for the income and responsibilities that come with his inheritance, but he will not stand for it to go to their rivals. He needs a biddable, respectable wife that will allow him his freedom… Fast.
And he has the perfect candidate in mind. His dear friend’s sister, Thea.
Secretly in love with Conner for years, Thea Cumberbatch-Snowe has grown tired of being alone and has given up hope that he will one day return her affections. So, when the handsome and friendly local Squire, Lancelot Fox, proposes, she accepts and they elope to Gretna Green.
When Conner arrives at her family home just in time to find her gone, he’s dumbfounded. His one and only option, he races the path to Gretna Green determined to stop her and make her his wife. Only when he finds her, she’s not as grateful as he expected her to be.
It’s here that the fun began for me. I had an expectation of how the book would go and the author surprised me by going in a slightly different direction. The lengths Conner goes to, to achieve his goal of splitting up Thea and Lance while winning her hand, is hilarious. Witty banter between these two is rapid fire and so much fun. And the cast of secondary characters had me in fits of giggles with their antics.
If you are looking for a lighthearted, fast read with loads of wit and charm, grab this book. I’m looking forward to the antics of the other Douglas brothers as they search for their wives in the next books. CAUGHT BY THE SCOT is the first book in the Made to Marry series.
A copy was provided to CGSR Book Blog via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 26, 2024
Review from 2017
I've given this an A- for narration and a B for content at AudioGals. Good narration enhanced the story and bumped the content grade up a bit.
Caught by the Scot is the first book in a new series from Karen Hawkins and in it, we meet the three Douglas brothers, Declan, Conner and Jack, who are told they have to marry within a few months or forfeit the inheritance due to them as part of their late sister’s will. It’s an enjoyable friends-to-lovers romance that, while not offering anything new, is nonetheless very well-written; and the hero’s journey, as he comes to realise what is really important to him, is nicely done.
Having lost their parents when they were quite young, the Douglas brothers were more or less brought up by their older sister, Anna, who has just died giving birth to a son, her husband’s heir. The Duke of Hamilton is devastated by his wife’s death and is in no mood for argument from his brothers-in-law; Anna desperately wanted to see them all settled with wives and families, and to honour her memory that’s what is going to happen. If the men don’t marry within four months, the considerable legacy left them by Anna will be given to the Campbells, sworn enemies of the Douglas clan.
None of the brothers is happy, but agree that they will try to fulfil the terms of the bequest – and Conner announces that he has the ideal candidate. Theodora Cumberbatch-Snowe is one of his oldest friends; she’s sensible, demure, biddable and, given her experience as the daughter of an ambassador, will be more than capable of running his household while he is away at sea pursuing his profession as a privateer. She’s also on the shelf and is thus sure to be extremely grateful for his offer of marriage – the perfect solution to his problem. Declan and Jack are a bit surprised when Conner doesn’t make plans to offer for Thea immediately, but reasoning she’ll be ready and willing whenever he deigns to turn up, Conner instead heads to London where he embarks upon a month long carouse to mark the end of his bachelorhood.
Unfortunately for Conner, he’s made a major miscalculation. When he finally arrives – somewhat the worse for wear – to pop the question, it’s to find Cumberbatch House in uproar following Thea’s elopement with a local squire. Conner is furious – how dare she not be sitting there waiting for him, and how dare she run off with someone else? He sets off in pursuit, determined to make Thea see sense and get her to marry him instead.
At twenty-seven, Thea is fed up with waiting for her life to start. She has spent most of the past decade travelling the world with her parents and acting as their general factotum; she has made travel arrangements, organised their accommodation, arranged decoration and furnishings, employed servants… in short, she’s tired of living for her family and wants to have an adventure and life of her own. When the very handsome, very eligible Squire Lancelot Fox started showing an interest and courting her, Thea accepted his proposal immediately and agreed to elope with him.
But Thea’s adventure quickly comes unstuck when Lance’s less than top notch driving skills send their carriage careening into a ditch, necessitating a stop at the nearest inn for repairs. Knowing that she’s by far the better driver frustrates Thea no end, but Lance has very set ideas about what proper ladies should do – and driving a gentleman’s equipage is not one of them. The unexpected arrival of Conner Douglas at the same inn does nothing to stem Thea’s irritation. At first, she thinks he has come after her at her family’s behest – an idea which is quickly laid to rest when Conner makes her probably the least enticing proposal of marriage ever. Not surprisingly, on being told that she should marry Conner because they’ll be comfortable together and it will help him to claim his inheritance, Thea turns him down flat, leaving Conner bewildered, yet intent on changing her mind.
Thea has been in love with Conner ever since she was fourteen, but knows he sees her as a sister. His first love is – and always will be – the sea, and Thea is well aware of how he would hate to be tied to just one place, especially after Conner shows how badly he misunderstands her desire for a home and family of her own when he suggests she must want a change from being with the same people all the time. Thea stands fast in the face of Conner’s insistence that she marry him; he tries showing her the depth of the passion that lies between them, but no matter how knee-weakening Conner’s kisses, Thea knows they want different things from life and that marriage to him would be a disaster.
While it’s fair to say that the storyline itself offers nothing new, Ms. Hawkins nonetheless crafts an enjoyable tale which is amusing, poignant, tender and sensual by turns. The central characters have great chemistry and are attractive and engaging; even though Conner starts out as something of an arrogant git, it says much that Thea is the first – and only – woman that comes to mind when he’s told he must marry, and while he does have his own agenda to start with, it gradually fades into the background as his concern for her happiness comes to the fore. Thea is a spirited, intelligent and very capable heroine, who comes to realise that no matter how much she loves Conner, she deserves someone who will love her for herself and not because she is the means to an end. The central conflict that lies between them – that they want different things from life – feels very real, and it’s clear that they are both going to have to make compromises if they want to make a life together.
I’ve listened to Gary Furlong a few times now, and he’s rapidly making himself a place on my “narrators to trust” list. In fact, it was seeing his name attached to this project that made me request a review copy of the audiobook, and I’m pleased to report that he acquits himself very well indeed. His slightly husky voice is easy on the ear, his pacing in both narrative and dialogue is excellent, all the characters are clearly differentiated and his female voices are extremely good. I’ve only heard him so far in m/m historical romances in which the female roles have been secondary characters who don’t appear often, so I was keen to hear how he would portray the heroine in an m/f romance. And he does it very well, adopting a softer timbre and a slight raise in pitch, both of them quite subtle but enough to convey femininity. His portrayal of Conner, however, is the real star-turn; his gentle Scottish burr is accurate, consistent and very sexy, and he has also chosen to perform the narrative using a Scottish accent, which again, he maintains very well.
I do have a couple of minor quibbles though, one being that although the story obviously takes place in the north of England/south of Scotland, the servants almost all have bog-standard, “ooh-aar” West Country accents. Mr. Furlong isn’t alone in doing this, but it’s pretty clear that British accents are something of a speciality of his, and I just wondered why he hadn’t employed northern accents instead. The other thing is something I’ve mentioned before, which is that he does tend to perform the narrative in a very… low key way, and I sometimes wish he’d inject a little more expression into it. That said, it’s not something that bothers me to any great extent and didn’t impact on my enjoyment of the audiobook as a whole. Also, it’s not an issue with the dialogue, which is suitably nuanced and adroitly delivered.
Caught by the Scot is one of those cases in which the narration elevated the story into something I enjoyed much more in audio than in print. I really hope Mr. Furlong returns to narrate future instalments in the series, and if he does, I’ll be picking them up for sure.
I've given this an A- for narration and a B for content at AudioGals. Good narration enhanced the story and bumped the content grade up a bit.
Caught by the Scot is the first book in a new series from Karen Hawkins and in it, we meet the three Douglas brothers, Declan, Conner and Jack, who are told they have to marry within a few months or forfeit the inheritance due to them as part of their late sister’s will. It’s an enjoyable friends-to-lovers romance that, while not offering anything new, is nonetheless very well-written; and the hero’s journey, as he comes to realise what is really important to him, is nicely done.
Having lost their parents when they were quite young, the Douglas brothers were more or less brought up by their older sister, Anna, who has just died giving birth to a son, her husband’s heir. The Duke of Hamilton is devastated by his wife’s death and is in no mood for argument from his brothers-in-law; Anna desperately wanted to see them all settled with wives and families, and to honour her memory that’s what is going to happen. If the men don’t marry within four months, the considerable legacy left them by Anna will be given to the Campbells, sworn enemies of the Douglas clan.
None of the brothers is happy, but agree that they will try to fulfil the terms of the bequest – and Conner announces that he has the ideal candidate. Theodora Cumberbatch-Snowe is one of his oldest friends; she’s sensible, demure, biddable and, given her experience as the daughter of an ambassador, will be more than capable of running his household while he is away at sea pursuing his profession as a privateer. She’s also on the shelf and is thus sure to be extremely grateful for his offer of marriage – the perfect solution to his problem. Declan and Jack are a bit surprised when Conner doesn’t make plans to offer for Thea immediately, but reasoning she’ll be ready and willing whenever he deigns to turn up, Conner instead heads to London where he embarks upon a month long carouse to mark the end of his bachelorhood.
Unfortunately for Conner, he’s made a major miscalculation. When he finally arrives – somewhat the worse for wear – to pop the question, it’s to find Cumberbatch House in uproar following Thea’s elopement with a local squire. Conner is furious – how dare she not be sitting there waiting for him, and how dare she run off with someone else? He sets off in pursuit, determined to make Thea see sense and get her to marry him instead.
At twenty-seven, Thea is fed up with waiting for her life to start. She has spent most of the past decade travelling the world with her parents and acting as their general factotum; she has made travel arrangements, organised their accommodation, arranged decoration and furnishings, employed servants… in short, she’s tired of living for her family and wants to have an adventure and life of her own. When the very handsome, very eligible Squire Lancelot Fox started showing an interest and courting her, Thea accepted his proposal immediately and agreed to elope with him.
But Thea’s adventure quickly comes unstuck when Lance’s less than top notch driving skills send their carriage careening into a ditch, necessitating a stop at the nearest inn for repairs. Knowing that she’s by far the better driver frustrates Thea no end, but Lance has very set ideas about what proper ladies should do – and driving a gentleman’s equipage is not one of them. The unexpected arrival of Conner Douglas at the same inn does nothing to stem Thea’s irritation. At first, she thinks he has come after her at her family’s behest – an idea which is quickly laid to rest when Conner makes her probably the least enticing proposal of marriage ever. Not surprisingly, on being told that she should marry Conner because they’ll be comfortable together and it will help him to claim his inheritance, Thea turns him down flat, leaving Conner bewildered, yet intent on changing her mind.
Thea has been in love with Conner ever since she was fourteen, but knows he sees her as a sister. His first love is – and always will be – the sea, and Thea is well aware of how he would hate to be tied to just one place, especially after Conner shows how badly he misunderstands her desire for a home and family of her own when he suggests she must want a change from being with the same people all the time. Thea stands fast in the face of Conner’s insistence that she marry him; he tries showing her the depth of the passion that lies between them, but no matter how knee-weakening Conner’s kisses, Thea knows they want different things from life and that marriage to him would be a disaster.
While it’s fair to say that the storyline itself offers nothing new, Ms. Hawkins nonetheless crafts an enjoyable tale which is amusing, poignant, tender and sensual by turns. The central characters have great chemistry and are attractive and engaging; even though Conner starts out as something of an arrogant git, it says much that Thea is the first – and only – woman that comes to mind when he’s told he must marry, and while he does have his own agenda to start with, it gradually fades into the background as his concern for her happiness comes to the fore. Thea is a spirited, intelligent and very capable heroine, who comes to realise that no matter how much she loves Conner, she deserves someone who will love her for herself and not because she is the means to an end. The central conflict that lies between them – that they want different things from life – feels very real, and it’s clear that they are both going to have to make compromises if they want to make a life together.
I’ve listened to Gary Furlong a few times now, and he’s rapidly making himself a place on my “narrators to trust” list. In fact, it was seeing his name attached to this project that made me request a review copy of the audiobook, and I’m pleased to report that he acquits himself very well indeed. His slightly husky voice is easy on the ear, his pacing in both narrative and dialogue is excellent, all the characters are clearly differentiated and his female voices are extremely good. I’ve only heard him so far in m/m historical romances in which the female roles have been secondary characters who don’t appear often, so I was keen to hear how he would portray the heroine in an m/f romance. And he does it very well, adopting a softer timbre and a slight raise in pitch, both of them quite subtle but enough to convey femininity. His portrayal of Conner, however, is the real star-turn; his gentle Scottish burr is accurate, consistent and very sexy, and he has also chosen to perform the narrative using a Scottish accent, which again, he maintains very well.
I do have a couple of minor quibbles though, one being that although the story obviously takes place in the north of England/south of Scotland, the servants almost all have bog-standard, “ooh-aar” West Country accents. Mr. Furlong isn’t alone in doing this, but it’s pretty clear that British accents are something of a speciality of his, and I just wondered why he hadn’t employed northern accents instead. The other thing is something I’ve mentioned before, which is that he does tend to perform the narrative in a very… low key way, and I sometimes wish he’d inject a little more expression into it. That said, it’s not something that bothers me to any great extent and didn’t impact on my enjoyment of the audiobook as a whole. Also, it’s not an issue with the dialogue, which is suitably nuanced and adroitly delivered.
Caught by the Scot is one of those cases in which the narration elevated the story into something I enjoyed much more in audio than in print. I really hope Mr. Furlong returns to narrate future instalments in the series, and if he does, I’ll be picking them up for sure.
March 23, 2021
It's been a long time since I read a real "bodice ripper" and this one ended up being pretty cute. Follows the traditional plan, but there are some nicely original touches which beef up the story.
Enhanced by Gary Furlong's wonderful narration, definitely do this one as an audiobook. Four stars for the audio.
Enhanced by Gary Furlong's wonderful narration, definitely do this one as an audiobook. Four stars for the audio.
October 20, 2017
Coffee Dates with Caught by the Scot
First Date: The Douglas boys lost their parents at a young age, and their sister took on the role of mother. Each is successful in their own right. Conner is a privateer, and rumors abound about pirating, women and misbehavior. He comes up with the perfect plan. He will marry, his best friend's sister, Theodora Cumberbatch-Snowe. She is practical, quiet and companionable. Only he will wait a month before delighting her with the news. When he arrives, she is on her way to Gretna Green to get married to a Squire. And thus our tale begins. I have a feeling Conner has a lot to learn if he wants to woo this woman!
Second Date: Thea has been in love with Conner since, well, forever. She has finally decided to put those feelings aside and marry a dependable, safe, kind man. Only the coach loses a wheel; her clothes are soaked and blast it all Conner is here! I absolutely loved the back and forth banter, the sizzling chemistry, and our feisty, stubborn heroine. Despite needing a slap on the back of the head, Conner is swoon-worthy, and I quickly began rooting for him.
Third Date: Secondary characters, accidents, illnesses and stolen kisses kept me flipping the pages. I loved seeing Conner awaken too Thea. Hawkins treated us to several threads and introduced secondary characters from maids to pirates providing an entertaining read from start to finish. I felt the cause of the conflict was valid. I was cheering Thea on for knowing what she wanted and refusing to settle. Hawkins brought all the threads together and had me ending my dates with a smile.
Copy provided by the publisher. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
First Date: The Douglas boys lost their parents at a young age, and their sister took on the role of mother. Each is successful in their own right. Conner is a privateer, and rumors abound about pirating, women and misbehavior. He comes up with the perfect plan. He will marry, his best friend's sister, Theodora Cumberbatch-Snowe. She is practical, quiet and companionable. Only he will wait a month before delighting her with the news. When he arrives, she is on her way to Gretna Green to get married to a Squire. And thus our tale begins. I have a feeling Conner has a lot to learn if he wants to woo this woman!
Second Date: Thea has been in love with Conner since, well, forever. She has finally decided to put those feelings aside and marry a dependable, safe, kind man. Only the coach loses a wheel; her clothes are soaked and blast it all Conner is here! I absolutely loved the back and forth banter, the sizzling chemistry, and our feisty, stubborn heroine. Despite needing a slap on the back of the head, Conner is swoon-worthy, and I quickly began rooting for him.
Third Date: Secondary characters, accidents, illnesses and stolen kisses kept me flipping the pages. I loved seeing Conner awaken too Thea. Hawkins treated us to several threads and introduced secondary characters from maids to pirates providing an entertaining read from start to finish. I felt the cause of the conflict was valid. I was cheering Thea on for knowing what she wanted and refusing to settle. Hawkins brought all the threads together and had me ending my dates with a smile.
Copy provided by the publisher. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
September 13, 2017
Series: Made To Marry #1
Publication Date: 9/26/17
The plot:
A sister and three brothers lost their parents. The sister is older and basically raises the three boys. She frets and worries about how wild they are and fears they are wasting and ruining their lives. She wants them to marry – now. She has married a duke who loves her very much and when she dies in childbirth, he implements her plan to force her brothers to marry. He’s not polite about it. They have three months to marry good, suitable brides. If they do not, their inheritance will go to their family enemies, the Campbell’s.
NOTE: Love the book, but there is something I don’t understand here. This is the Regency period and I thought that it was against the law (or at least a standard requirement) for a female to inherit over the males in her family AND that any underage children, particularly the males, must have a male guardian. This was a wealthy family, though evidently not of the titled variety. So, I wonder how the sister ended up responsible for her younger brothers and particularly their inheritance. How is it that she, rather than her parent's wills, determined when and how the brothers would receive their inheritance. I don’t know – just seemed a bit off to me. It didn’t intrude on my enjoyment of the story but puzzled me enough to make me think about it all through the story. I thought it might be explained somewhere, but it wasn’t. Maybe it has to do with Scottish law rather than English.
The Story:
When Connor Douglas receives the news that he and his brothers Jack and Declan must marry within three months or forfeit their inheritance to the Campbell’s. He rejects the idea outright and argues. However, the duke, who is carrying out his wife’s final wishes, will not budge. Finally, he relents because, even though he doesn’t need the money, he cannot abide the idea of the Campbell’s getting it.
Connor knows just the bride for him, Thea (Theodora Cumberbatch-Snowe), who is the younger sister of his best friend Derrick. He’s sure she’ll accept him right away and will be happy to live in the country managing his home while he continues his life as it is. Yes, we all know how well that is going to work out, don’t we? So, Connor spends some time drinking, womanizing and carousing around and finally decides to go and get his bride. Only, when he gets there he finds she has eloped to Gretna Green with the local squire. Well – shut my mouth!!!
Thea has been in love with Connor since she first met him when he came home from school with her brother. He’s been a constant visitor to them ever since – even visiting them when they were posted in other countries. However, she has finally determined that Connor doesn’t even notice she is alive much less holding any tender feelings for her. So she decides that if she wants a home and family of her own, she must look elsewhere. Enter the young, wealthy and handsome squire who lives about an hour away. He’s pretty staid and dull, but Thea has convinced herself that she at least has an affection for him and he’s in love with her. When he proposes that they elope, she accepts and off they go.
Connor goes tracking Thea and the squire down in order to convince Thea to marry him instead. Thus begins the adventure. You’ll love the way Connor keeps convincing the squire to do things that will irritate Thea – and the way Thea thwarts him. There are lots of humorous times interspersed with some angst – just enough of each to keep you flipping the pages to see what happens next. I just know you’ll love the story as much as I did.
The Characters:
Connor – I just loved him. I loved that he was absolutely flummoxed when Thea didn’t just fall into his arms when he asked her to marry him. I also enjoyed watching him grow and realize that he actually loved Thea, then realize that he could very easily lose her.
Thea – she was very smart and stubborn. Once she made up her mind it was almost impossible to change it. She had decided that she would not marry Connor even if she didn't end up marrying the squire. She fought the idea that she still loved him, but finally realized she did. However, she’s also decided that she cannot live the life he wants for them, so she still refuses to marry him.
The Squire – Lancelot (Lance) Fox. He’s young, handsome, wealthy, predictable and a bit dull. He was raised by a dominant mother along with his sisters. He was a bit deferential to females – especially his mother – she ruled the roost. He wasn’t sure what to do with headstrong, forceful Thea. Maybe he needed someone more retiring.
Miss Simmons – Lance is persuaded (by Connor) to hire a companion for Thea in order to protect Thea’s reputation. That chaperone is Miss xxx. She is diminutive, shy and retiring – and she gets overtaxed and ill easily.
Alice – Connor hires one of the maids from an Inn they stopped at – she is to be Thea’s Ladies Maid. She is brash and outspoken, but remarkably efficient. You’ll get a kick out of her.
Connor’s Crew – they are all wonderful and in on the plot to slow Thea and Lance’s progress to Gretna Green.
I can highly recommend this book. There are a number of quotes I’d love to share with you, but since this is a pre-release version, I cannot do so. I’m sure you’ll find those gems as you read through the book!
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
Publication Date: 9/26/17
The plot:
A sister and three brothers lost their parents. The sister is older and basically raises the three boys. She frets and worries about how wild they are and fears they are wasting and ruining their lives. She wants them to marry – now. She has married a duke who loves her very much and when she dies in childbirth, he implements her plan to force her brothers to marry. He’s not polite about it. They have three months to marry good, suitable brides. If they do not, their inheritance will go to their family enemies, the Campbell’s.
NOTE: Love the book, but there is something I don’t understand here. This is the Regency period and I thought that it was against the law (or at least a standard requirement) for a female to inherit over the males in her family AND that any underage children, particularly the males, must have a male guardian. This was a wealthy family, though evidently not of the titled variety. So, I wonder how the sister ended up responsible for her younger brothers and particularly their inheritance. How is it that she, rather than her parent's wills, determined when and how the brothers would receive their inheritance. I don’t know – just seemed a bit off to me. It didn’t intrude on my enjoyment of the story but puzzled me enough to make me think about it all through the story. I thought it might be explained somewhere, but it wasn’t. Maybe it has to do with Scottish law rather than English.
The Story:
When Connor Douglas receives the news that he and his brothers Jack and Declan must marry within three months or forfeit their inheritance to the Campbell’s. He rejects the idea outright and argues. However, the duke, who is carrying out his wife’s final wishes, will not budge. Finally, he relents because, even though he doesn’t need the money, he cannot abide the idea of the Campbell’s getting it.
Connor knows just the bride for him, Thea (Theodora Cumberbatch-Snowe), who is the younger sister of his best friend Derrick. He’s sure she’ll accept him right away and will be happy to live in the country managing his home while he continues his life as it is. Yes, we all know how well that is going to work out, don’t we? So, Connor spends some time drinking, womanizing and carousing around and finally decides to go and get his bride. Only, when he gets there he finds she has eloped to Gretna Green with the local squire. Well – shut my mouth!!!
Thea has been in love with Connor since she first met him when he came home from school with her brother. He’s been a constant visitor to them ever since – even visiting them when they were posted in other countries. However, she has finally determined that Connor doesn’t even notice she is alive much less holding any tender feelings for her. So she decides that if she wants a home and family of her own, she must look elsewhere. Enter the young, wealthy and handsome squire who lives about an hour away. He’s pretty staid and dull, but Thea has convinced herself that she at least has an affection for him and he’s in love with her. When he proposes that they elope, she accepts and off they go.
Connor goes tracking Thea and the squire down in order to convince Thea to marry him instead. Thus begins the adventure. You’ll love the way Connor keeps convincing the squire to do things that will irritate Thea – and the way Thea thwarts him. There are lots of humorous times interspersed with some angst – just enough of each to keep you flipping the pages to see what happens next. I just know you’ll love the story as much as I did.
The Characters:
Connor – I just loved him. I loved that he was absolutely flummoxed when Thea didn’t just fall into his arms when he asked her to marry him. I also enjoyed watching him grow and realize that he actually loved Thea, then realize that he could very easily lose her.
Thea – she was very smart and stubborn. Once she made up her mind it was almost impossible to change it. She had decided that she would not marry Connor even if she didn't end up marrying the squire. She fought the idea that she still loved him, but finally realized she did. However, she’s also decided that she cannot live the life he wants for them, so she still refuses to marry him.
The Squire – Lancelot (Lance) Fox. He’s young, handsome, wealthy, predictable and a bit dull. He was raised by a dominant mother along with his sisters. He was a bit deferential to females – especially his mother – she ruled the roost. He wasn’t sure what to do with headstrong, forceful Thea. Maybe he needed someone more retiring.
Miss Simmons – Lance is persuaded (by Connor) to hire a companion for Thea in order to protect Thea’s reputation. That chaperone is Miss xxx. She is diminutive, shy and retiring – and she gets overtaxed and ill easily.
Alice – Connor hires one of the maids from an Inn they stopped at – she is to be Thea’s Ladies Maid. She is brash and outspoken, but remarkably efficient. You’ll get a kick out of her.
Connor’s Crew – they are all wonderful and in on the plot to slow Thea and Lance’s progress to Gretna Green.
I can highly recommend this book. There are a number of quotes I’d love to share with you, but since this is a pre-release version, I cannot do so. I’m sure you’ll find those gems as you read through the book!
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
August 26, 2017
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
In Caught By The Scot, we have an entertaining and witty romance that is perfect for kicking your legs up, with a cup of tea and immersing yourself into. Karen Hawkins has delivered another wonderful story that kept me smiling all the way through and left me wanting more from these two.
Our story begins when Connor Douglas, has come home to visit his sister, with a new baby on the way. But when Connor and his brothers arrive, they learn that their beloved sister has passed away in giving birth and has left behind a husband and an infant son. Their emotions are rattled, but then they learn about their sister's desires for them all, which their brother in law intends on carrying out to honor the woman he loved. They have three months to find a bride or lose their inheritance which will be given to their bitter enemies, a fellow clan. At first, Connor and his brothers are furious, but Connor knows of one woman he could marry. A woman he grew up with, a sister to one of his closest friends. He just knows that she is a spinster and will be grateful for his offer---or that is what he assumes. But upon arriving at her home, he learns that she has eloped with a farmer. So he chases after her and her "fiancee" to convince her his suit is way better than anything she could have with this landowner. Thea has loved Connor for many years, but she is tired of him never seeing her. She craves adventure and to take charge of her own life. And when Lance, a man who is handsome and kind and in love with her, she agrees to marry him. But she never expected the drama, a turned vehicle, or her secret love to be wanting her hand instead. She knows he sees her as a spinster, not a real woman worth of his attention.
Now I won't say that this is my favorite book from this author, but this book packs a punch in so many ways. At the beginning, I really really shouldn't read books in public, because I was crying buckets of tears. There was so much emotion that begins the story, seeing how much these brothers loved their sister and seeing the way they are grieving for her. It just broke my heart to see these strong and wild Scots be so humbled and broken. You may think that Connor isn't your honest and good hero...but think again because I was so on his side during this book. He has a passion for living on the seas, be he also has great admiration for Thea. He has never wanted marriage EVER....but she is the only woman he would ever marry. He respects her and admires her in many ways and they have become good friends over the years. But we see how Connor sees Thea in a different way. We see how it humbles him and he starts to pursue her, to court her and be very devious in various ways. Connor doesn't expect his competition "Lance" to be so good looking or charming.
Withoot you, I'm a ship with nae crew. A sail with nae wind. A mon with nae heart. I love you Thea.
I understood Thea's reaction to Connor at first, about why she was so against him. I mean she wants a home and family, and Connor is a man that lives and breathes the sea. It's like the fish and the bird falling in love with each other. Even though she does love him, she wants more than just love. She wants a man to rely on, a man who will be there for her and vice versa. She wants a true partnership and won't take anything less and I LOVED that about her character. She isn't afraid to go after what she wants even if that means losing a man she loves. I did admire her values for life, and what her goals were. We see some growth and changes in both characters. Connor starts to realize that courting Thea isn't going to be easy and he may lose anyway. It was interesting to see these two come together. Because both of them have hot tempers and boy do things sizzle between them. I laughed so hard at their antics, and the "creative" ways Connor goes to separate Lance and Thea from each other.
This story just proves why I have fallen in love with this author over the years. She is a marvel at mixing up true depth of emotion with enough lightheartedness and building up characters you want to cheer on. Caught By The Scot is a feisty and lively romance that will keep you fascinated, teary eyed, smiles full of laughter and a love story that proves the fish and the bird can build a nest together!
In Caught By The Scot, we have an entertaining and witty romance that is perfect for kicking your legs up, with a cup of tea and immersing yourself into. Karen Hawkins has delivered another wonderful story that kept me smiling all the way through and left me wanting more from these two.
Our story begins when Connor Douglas, has come home to visit his sister, with a new baby on the way. But when Connor and his brothers arrive, they learn that their beloved sister has passed away in giving birth and has left behind a husband and an infant son. Their emotions are rattled, but then they learn about their sister's desires for them all, which their brother in law intends on carrying out to honor the woman he loved. They have three months to find a bride or lose their inheritance which will be given to their bitter enemies, a fellow clan. At first, Connor and his brothers are furious, but Connor knows of one woman he could marry. A woman he grew up with, a sister to one of his closest friends. He just knows that she is a spinster and will be grateful for his offer---or that is what he assumes. But upon arriving at her home, he learns that she has eloped with a farmer. So he chases after her and her "fiancee" to convince her his suit is way better than anything she could have with this landowner. Thea has loved Connor for many years, but she is tired of him never seeing her. She craves adventure and to take charge of her own life. And when Lance, a man who is handsome and kind and in love with her, she agrees to marry him. But she never expected the drama, a turned vehicle, or her secret love to be wanting her hand instead. She knows he sees her as a spinster, not a real woman worth of his attention.
Now I won't say that this is my favorite book from this author, but this book packs a punch in so many ways. At the beginning, I really really shouldn't read books in public, because I was crying buckets of tears. There was so much emotion that begins the story, seeing how much these brothers loved their sister and seeing the way they are grieving for her. It just broke my heart to see these strong and wild Scots be so humbled and broken. You may think that Connor isn't your honest and good hero...but think again because I was so on his side during this book. He has a passion for living on the seas, be he also has great admiration for Thea. He has never wanted marriage EVER....but she is the only woman he would ever marry. He respects her and admires her in many ways and they have become good friends over the years. But we see how Connor sees Thea in a different way. We see how it humbles him and he starts to pursue her, to court her and be very devious in various ways. Connor doesn't expect his competition "Lance" to be so good looking or charming.
Withoot you, I'm a ship with nae crew. A sail with nae wind. A mon with nae heart. I love you Thea.
I understood Thea's reaction to Connor at first, about why she was so against him. I mean she wants a home and family, and Connor is a man that lives and breathes the sea. It's like the fish and the bird falling in love with each other. Even though she does love him, she wants more than just love. She wants a man to rely on, a man who will be there for her and vice versa. She wants a true partnership and won't take anything less and I LOVED that about her character. She isn't afraid to go after what she wants even if that means losing a man she loves. I did admire her values for life, and what her goals were. We see some growth and changes in both characters. Connor starts to realize that courting Thea isn't going to be easy and he may lose anyway. It was interesting to see these two come together. Because both of them have hot tempers and boy do things sizzle between them. I laughed so hard at their antics, and the "creative" ways Connor goes to separate Lance and Thea from each other.
This story just proves why I have fallen in love with this author over the years. She is a marvel at mixing up true depth of emotion with enough lightheartedness and building up characters you want to cheer on. Caught By The Scot is a feisty and lively romance that will keep you fascinated, teary eyed, smiles full of laughter and a love story that proves the fish and the bird can build a nest together!
Read
December 14, 2018I wasn't completely sold on the sample.
Karen Hawkins has never stood out as a top romance author for me, tho I've read several of her books. So I hesitate.
I really like the premise of the book, and I like the trope - guy and girl who are friends, girl who loves guy forever, and guy needs to discover that he loves her back.
HOWEVER...
1) There were way too many "nae"s - even before I left the first page I was inundated with countless "nae"s!! I get that we want to reflect the Scottish accent, but there are plenty of Scottish romances without this distracting affectation that I enjoy a lot more!
2) The guy enjoys womanizing right before going off to seek his bride. I HATE womanizers.
3) And by the end of the sample, I still haven't even caught a glimpse of the heroine! Not good...
Karen Hawkins has never stood out as a top romance author for me, tho I've read several of her books. So I hesitate.
I really like the premise of the book, and I like the trope - guy and girl who are friends, girl who loves guy forever, and guy needs to discover that he loves her back.
HOWEVER...
1) There were way too many "nae"s - even before I left the first page I was inundated with countless "nae"s!! I get that we want to reflect the Scottish accent, but there are plenty of Scottish romances without this distracting affectation that I enjoy a lot more!
2) The guy enjoys womanizing right before going off to seek his bride. I HATE womanizers.
3) And by the end of the sample, I still haven't even caught a glimpse of the heroine! Not good...
September 22, 2017
I enjoyed this story for its dialogue and moments of levity. I disliked the light historical details, its dependence on tropes, and the frustrating long time it takes for characters to actually admit to things.
November 1, 2017
Caught By The Scot was a thoroughly Enjoyable Story.
After the death of there beloved sister Anna Duchess of Hamilton. The Douglas brother Connor, Jack and Declan are told there sister, whom had controlled of there inheritances that they must marry within 3 months or there inheritance will be giving to there enemies the Campbells. This part didn't make much sense because if they are clan enemies who would leave there money and lands to them. Anyway this does prompt the brothers to go look for wives.
Connor knows who he will marry his best friends sister Lady Theodora Cumberbach-Snowe. They have been close friends for many years and she would make the perfect wife. She a spinster well on the shelf at 27.
Connor gets to her home only to find out she has eloped to Gretna Green with a Squire Lance Fox. A neighboring farmer. Connor takes off after them to stop the elopement. Once he tells Theo that he needs a wife in order to get his inheritance she will marry him. His proposal does not go off like he would like and Theo says no. Connor and his brother are already very rich in there own endeavors . But he refuse to lose his inheritance so he does everything he can to delay Theo and Lance from getting to Gretna Green.
This is a very good story but its totally unbelievable. Theo's new Companion takes up most of the story because she is so sickly. Most aristocrats would have sent her back home at best and fired her at worse. Theo waits on her hand and foot which is kind but unbelievable. I would have like more interaction between the H/H and less about Jane the Companion. Eventually you see where the author is going with this storyline and everyone gets the HEA. Very will written story and very enjoyable.
After the death of there beloved sister Anna Duchess of Hamilton. The Douglas brother Connor, Jack and Declan are told there sister, whom had controlled of there inheritances that they must marry within 3 months or there inheritance will be giving to there enemies the Campbells. This part didn't make much sense because if they are clan enemies who would leave there money and lands to them. Anyway this does prompt the brothers to go look for wives.
Connor knows who he will marry his best friends sister Lady Theodora Cumberbach-Snowe. They have been close friends for many years and she would make the perfect wife. She a spinster well on the shelf at 27.
Connor gets to her home only to find out she has eloped to Gretna Green with a Squire Lance Fox. A neighboring farmer. Connor takes off after them to stop the elopement. Once he tells Theo that he needs a wife in order to get his inheritance she will marry him. His proposal does not go off like he would like and Theo says no. Connor and his brother are already very rich in there own endeavors . But he refuse to lose his inheritance so he does everything he can to delay Theo and Lance from getting to Gretna Green.
This is a very good story but its totally unbelievable. Theo's new Companion takes up most of the story because she is so sickly. Most aristocrats would have sent her back home at best and fired her at worse. Theo waits on her hand and foot which is kind but unbelievable. I would have like more interaction between the H/H and less about Jane the Companion. Eventually you see where the author is going with this storyline and everyone gets the HEA. Very will written story and very enjoyable.
February 19, 2018
What a fun, lighthearted easy read! All characters were extremely likeable and tons of entertaining dialogue. This was a case of the heroine's brother's BFF falling in love with her. I love this trope, one of my favs. This one was different though, as the heroine's brother, and whole family actually, were not involved throughout the whole story. So it was odd for me that big brother was not off in the corner threatening his rake-hell BFF to stay away from his sister. Another thing to mention is that it does not get kissy kissy until the very end... but it was such a great fun story, that I actually didn't notice that detail. I can't wait for book #2 to come out :)
September 26, 2017
Conner sometimes just blurts his feelings out, “aye, me,” he snapped. “Every time we’re alone, I end up kissing you. At this very moment, you’re fortunate we’re in full view of those blasted women and my servants, or I’d have you in my arms right now. For much more than a kiss.” Theodora can be a bold one at times, “you, sir, are many things , but staid is not one of them.” As she spoke, she slipped her hand to his hip and then around to his—" I really liked this book, I fell in love with conner and this book.
December 14, 2018
Lovely HEA. Entertaining and very enjoyable to read. Waiting for Connor's brothers stories!
5☆
5☆
September 4, 2017
ARC received from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair review
Plot: 4/5
Characterisation: 4/5
Prose: 4/5
How much I enjoyed it: 5/5
I started this book with low expectation. The blurb painted the heroine, Theodora as a shy and easily influenced spinster. While the hero, Conner as an opportunistic jerk who doesn't care much beyond what he wants. It doesn't help that in the beginning of the story, he arrives at the heroine's house drunk with a naked drunk married lady in the carriage. I was ready to give up on the hero at that moment.
But then the story took an interesting twist. Thea is a worldly spinster who knows her own mind and is just tired of wandering and travelling with her diplomat family and wishes to put down roots of her own. Having loved Conner since she was young, she understood that his life as a privateer and his love of the sea, is not for her.
And thus begin the story of how Conner tries to sabotage and rerouting their journey to Gretna Green and all sorts of plans to break up Thea and Lance. And slowly he begins to see how much Thea meant to him.
Personally, I'm ambivalent to his change of heart since it seems superficial. But I have to give props to Thea for sticking to her principles and what she wants even when she realises Conner might have some affection for her.
That aside, I would recommend those who wants to pass the time with a story where the hero is chasing after the heroine.
Plot: 4/5
Characterisation: 4/5
Prose: 4/5
How much I enjoyed it: 5/5
I started this book with low expectation. The blurb painted the heroine, Theodora as a shy and easily influenced spinster. While the hero, Conner as an opportunistic jerk who doesn't care much beyond what he wants. It doesn't help that in the beginning of the story, he arrives at the heroine's house drunk with a naked drunk married lady in the carriage. I was ready to give up on the hero at that moment.
But then the story took an interesting twist. Thea is a worldly spinster who knows her own mind and is just tired of wandering and travelling with her diplomat family and wishes to put down roots of her own. Having loved Conner since she was young, she understood that his life as a privateer and his love of the sea, is not for her.
And thus begin the story of how Conner tries to sabotage and rerouting their journey to Gretna Green and all sorts of plans to break up Thea and Lance. And slowly he begins to see how much Thea meant to him.
Personally, I'm ambivalent to his change of heart since it seems superficial. But I have to give props to Thea for sticking to her principles and what she wants even when she realises Conner might have some affection for her.
That aside, I would recommend those who wants to pass the time with a story where the hero is chasing after the heroine.
September 24, 2017
Connor has been instructed that he must marry within three months. He’s a man of the sea and a scoundrel with the women when on land so he knows the perfect malleable woman to make his wife. He will continue to live his life as it is and still receive his inheritance.
Thea has loved Connor since she was fourteen. She grew up in a family that was constantly on the move and all she wants now is to settle down and make a home of her own. She knows that home will never be with the man she loves so she accepts the proposition of a squire to elope.
This sets this story up for a wild romp across much of England and Scotland as Connor realizes his biddable friend isn’t so biddable after all. However, as lighthearted as the premise seems, this book never quite carried off the fun adventure of the chase for this couple. I kept waiting for it to pick up in the fun factor, and it’s apparent it’s meant to be, but it never quite hit the mark for me.
The fact that Connor never saw Thea in any kind of romantic way until she chose another man was a disappointment to me. The author shared some of Thea’s memories of him throughout the years and the potential for Connor to have felt more during those times was there but never admitted to or addressed. Yes, that was extremely disappointing. I like my heroes to be all in for their woman and while Connor appeared to be so once the chase began, it is clear he never considered her in any other way prior to his predicament that set him up to require a wife.
This author has always been one of my HR favorites so I was extremely excited to read Caught by the Scot and I will continue to read her work. Unfortunately for me, while this one was an okay read, it never pushed me over into loving it.
This is an honest review of an advanced copy provided by NetGalley
Dual POV which is all mixed in together sometimes making it difficult to remember whose POV we’re reading
Safety – while the h is eloping, there is no true connection between her and her fiancé; no ow drama
No triggers
HEA
Thea has loved Connor since she was fourteen. She grew up in a family that was constantly on the move and all she wants now is to settle down and make a home of her own. She knows that home will never be with the man she loves so she accepts the proposition of a squire to elope.
This sets this story up for a wild romp across much of England and Scotland as Connor realizes his biddable friend isn’t so biddable after all. However, as lighthearted as the premise seems, this book never quite carried off the fun adventure of the chase for this couple. I kept waiting for it to pick up in the fun factor, and it’s apparent it’s meant to be, but it never quite hit the mark for me.
The fact that Connor never saw Thea in any kind of romantic way until she chose another man was a disappointment to me. The author shared some of Thea’s memories of him throughout the years and the potential for Connor to have felt more during those times was there but never admitted to or addressed. Yes, that was extremely disappointing. I like my heroes to be all in for their woman and while Connor appeared to be so once the chase began, it is clear he never considered her in any other way prior to his predicament that set him up to require a wife.
This author has always been one of my HR favorites so I was extremely excited to read Caught by the Scot and I will continue to read her work. Unfortunately for me, while this one was an okay read, it never pushed me over into loving it.
This is an honest review of an advanced copy provided by NetGalley
Dual POV which is all mixed in together sometimes making it difficult to remember whose POV we’re reading
Safety – while the h is eloping, there is no true connection between her and her fiancé; no ow drama
No triggers
HEA
September 28, 2017
Wow, I did not expect to find a new favorite historical romance author when I received this audiobook for review, but that's exactly what happened. Now I want to read ALL of Karen Hawkins' novels. Or listen to them, if you can promise me they're all narrated by Gary Furlong, whose narration I fell hard for when I listened to
Timekeeper
earlier this year and even more so with this story. I loved the premise and the hero's cheekiness and the heroine's attempts not to fall for it, and even the secondary cast of characters was fun. But I might have only enjoyed this story half as much had I not listened to it, that's how great I found the audio. Still, I'm eager to read the author's other books, even if I don't get to experience Furlong's Scottish brogue again. :P
October 20, 2017
Humor and happenstance!
Another ultimatum type story where the hero/protagonist must marry in order to secure his fortune. Unfortunately his target bride will not go quietly into the night!
Miss Theodora Cumberbatch-Snowe has always adored her brother's friend Connor Douglas but marriage to him would be that of a sometime bride as the dashing Scots privateer hied off on more adventures leaving her behind.
Hence the idea to settle for the steadfast squire Lancelot Fox. He has little imagination and great expectations of a wife who knows her womanly place. He has forgotten to tell Theodora all this. Her answer to her Connor problem is an elopement. An elopement with mishaps, where the spurned suitor catches up with them. Connor is about to have his comeuppance, delivered by that supposedly biddable young woman.
After a month's carousing Connor returns to find his targeted bride had fled the coop. This cannot be allowed to happen, she is after all the perfect bride; respectable, meek and mild--NOT!
A delightful somewhat sensual romp with a goodly dose of humor!
A NetGalley ARC
Another ultimatum type story where the hero/protagonist must marry in order to secure his fortune. Unfortunately his target bride will not go quietly into the night!
Miss Theodora Cumberbatch-Snowe has always adored her brother's friend Connor Douglas but marriage to him would be that of a sometime bride as the dashing Scots privateer hied off on more adventures leaving her behind.
Hence the idea to settle for the steadfast squire Lancelot Fox. He has little imagination and great expectations of a wife who knows her womanly place. He has forgotten to tell Theodora all this. Her answer to her Connor problem is an elopement. An elopement with mishaps, where the spurned suitor catches up with them. Connor is about to have his comeuppance, delivered by that supposedly biddable young woman.
After a month's carousing Connor returns to find his targeted bride had fled the coop. This cannot be allowed to happen, she is after all the perfect bride; respectable, meek and mild--NOT!
A delightful somewhat sensual romp with a goodly dose of humor!
A NetGalley ARC
September 26, 2017
4.5 stars
I love Ms. Hawkins writing style - funny and light one page and then deep and emotional the next. This book was no exception, Connor and Theodora aka Thea are very likable leads with an undeniable chemistry. Their banter was vastly amusing but there was a lot of deep emotion as well.
Connor must marry, his sister has just passed away and has stipulated that if the three brothers do not marry within 3 months, their inheritance will be given to the Campbell's - their greatest enemy! None of the three really need the money, but they will be damned if they let the Campbell's have it!
Connor has the perfect woman in mind for his bride - his best friend's sister, Theodora. They have been friends for ages and she would be the perfect wife for him. She would be no hardship to live with and even less to leave behind when he goes to sea. Thinking she will jump at the chance to marry him, he takes his time setting out for her home. When he finally arrives he learns that Thea is not home - she has eloped! Determined to retrieve his bride, Connor follows them.
Thea is having a really bad day and is wondering if she has made the biggest mistake of her life by eloping with Lance. She is not in love with him, but he will give her a stable home and a family, which is what she longs for after years of moving with her family from one diplomatic post to another. But now sitting in an inn in the middle of nowhere, banged up from a carriage mishap and drenched from being tossed into a ditch - she is rethinking her decision. And to make matters worse - the only man she has ever loved has just walked into the inn. When Connor enters the room, her heart leaps and she has to remind herself that she cannot love him anymore - so imagine her shock when Connor announces that he has decided to marry her!
The tale that follows is a delightful road trip romance of sorts - with Connor scheming to win his lady and Thea neatly deflecting him.
I really enjoyed the story, it is well written and covers just about the entire emotional spectrum - but it did kind of stall a little in the middle, but once you get past the 65% mark, the story gets its second wind and takes off without stopping until the very last page! With an entertaining cast of secondary characters, some passionate kisses and a couple of warmish love scenes this was a delight to read.
I would be happy to recommend this book and look forward to the rest of the series!
* I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by Netgalley and the publisher*
I love Ms. Hawkins writing style - funny and light one page and then deep and emotional the next. This book was no exception, Connor and Theodora aka Thea are very likable leads with an undeniable chemistry. Their banter was vastly amusing but there was a lot of deep emotion as well.
Connor must marry, his sister has just passed away and has stipulated that if the three brothers do not marry within 3 months, their inheritance will be given to the Campbell's - their greatest enemy! None of the three really need the money, but they will be damned if they let the Campbell's have it!
Connor has the perfect woman in mind for his bride - his best friend's sister, Theodora. They have been friends for ages and she would be the perfect wife for him. She would be no hardship to live with and even less to leave behind when he goes to sea. Thinking she will jump at the chance to marry him, he takes his time setting out for her home. When he finally arrives he learns that Thea is not home - she has eloped! Determined to retrieve his bride, Connor follows them.
Thea is having a really bad day and is wondering if she has made the biggest mistake of her life by eloping with Lance. She is not in love with him, but he will give her a stable home and a family, which is what she longs for after years of moving with her family from one diplomatic post to another. But now sitting in an inn in the middle of nowhere, banged up from a carriage mishap and drenched from being tossed into a ditch - she is rethinking her decision. And to make matters worse - the only man she has ever loved has just walked into the inn. When Connor enters the room, her heart leaps and she has to remind herself that she cannot love him anymore - so imagine her shock when Connor announces that he has decided to marry her!
The tale that follows is a delightful road trip romance of sorts - with Connor scheming to win his lady and Thea neatly deflecting him.
I really enjoyed the story, it is well written and covers just about the entire emotional spectrum - but it did kind of stall a little in the middle, but once you get past the 65% mark, the story gets its second wind and takes off without stopping until the very last page! With an entertaining cast of secondary characters, some passionate kisses and a couple of warmish love scenes this was a delight to read.
I would be happy to recommend this book and look forward to the rest of the series!
* I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by Netgalley and the publisher*
September 4, 2017
This is the first book of Karen Hawkins’ new series and it’s wonderful! Brothers Conner, Jack and Declan Douglas arrive at the home of their brother-in-law, Lachlan (Duke of Hamilton) to discover their sister died giving birth to a baby boy who survived. According to her will they have 4 months to marry or their inheritance goes to the hated Campbells. Anna raised them after the death of their parents and wanted them to settle down. This book is Conner’s story.
Conner decides he’ll marry Thea (Theodora Cumberbatch-Snowe), his friend Derrick’s younger sister. He spent lots of his school breaks at Derrick’s house and likes Thea. However, he doesn’t go to her until the 4 months are almost up and discovers she’s eloped with a neighboring squire, Lancelot Fox. So, he goes after her. He finds her at an inn after the squire’s curricle lost a wheel.
As a young girl, Thea fell in love with Conner but he never paid her much attention. She finally accepts that he won’t ever love her and since she is “on the shelf” agrees to elope with a local squire. When Conner finds her at an inn she realizes he is upset about something. Since the curricle is broken, he offers Thea and Lance his carriage. He also convinces Lance she must have a chaperone. His driver is told to take the long way to Gretna Green and somehow he keeps meeting up with them.
I hope I’ve enticed you to read this really good book as the rest of it just gets better and better. Miscommunications, kisses and maybe more than one HEA. I can easily recommend this book. One of the best lines is from Conner: “Tis easier to read the intentions of a nor’easter than it is to follow a woman’s thinking.”
Thank you to Karen Hawkins, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC. No one has influenced my review or required I write one. I can’t wait for the brothers’ stories and maybe even a HEA for the now widowed Duke.
Conner decides he’ll marry Thea (Theodora Cumberbatch-Snowe), his friend Derrick’s younger sister. He spent lots of his school breaks at Derrick’s house and likes Thea. However, he doesn’t go to her until the 4 months are almost up and discovers she’s eloped with a neighboring squire, Lancelot Fox. So, he goes after her. He finds her at an inn after the squire’s curricle lost a wheel.
As a young girl, Thea fell in love with Conner but he never paid her much attention. She finally accepts that he won’t ever love her and since she is “on the shelf” agrees to elope with a local squire. When Conner finds her at an inn she realizes he is upset about something. Since the curricle is broken, he offers Thea and Lance his carriage. He also convinces Lance she must have a chaperone. His driver is told to take the long way to Gretna Green and somehow he keeps meeting up with them.
I hope I’ve enticed you to read this really good book as the rest of it just gets better and better. Miscommunications, kisses and maybe more than one HEA. I can easily recommend this book. One of the best lines is from Conner: “Tis easier to read the intentions of a nor’easter than it is to follow a woman’s thinking.”
Thank you to Karen Hawkins, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC. No one has influenced my review or required I write one. I can’t wait for the brothers’ stories and maybe even a HEA for the now widowed Duke.
September 24, 2017
Don't you just love when you read a book from an author that is new to you, and it is so good that the author is immediately added to your "must read all new books" list? Well, that is what this book did for me and Karen Hawkins. Fortunately, my first Hawkins is also the first in her new "Made to Marry" series which is a great retread of a fave trope: some hot Scottish brothers are forced to marry in order to inherit.
The Story-
The first brother in this series, Conner is a young roustabout rogue who is absolutely certain that an old family friend, Theodora, will be tickled pink to marry him, if only he offers. In a funny twist, Theodora has just eloped with a local guy and is not about to swoon at Conner's feet now that he is finally giving her the time of day.
My Thoughts-
I adore the humor in this book. There are some truly hysterical situations and scenes, but the wit is also there. Also, I am so glad that Hawkins didn't make Theodora's fiance some jerky guy. She took a way better, more interesting route in his character development that felt just perfect. Conner and Theodora are super duper hot, which I love. He's so surprised by their heat, and she's so true to herself; the inner conflicts shine and make you root for both characters. Hawkins' writing kept me rapt; I couldn't quit reading. The plot feels fresh. Even though it has been done before, it hasn't been done in this way with this humor. And yet, though there is humor, the heart is still here.
The Bottom Line-
If you love historical and haven't read Karen Hawkins, this is an EXCELLENT choice to start with. If you are a fan of hers, you probably already have this on pre-order. I cannot wait to read more from her. I highly recommend her to fans of Tessa Dare, Eloisa James, Loretta Chase, and Julie Garwood. And, to top it off, she writes Scots, which happens to be one of my fave historical sub-groups. 5 stars!
The Story-
The first brother in this series, Conner is a young roustabout rogue who is absolutely certain that an old family friend, Theodora, will be tickled pink to marry him, if only he offers. In a funny twist, Theodora has just eloped with a local guy and is not about to swoon at Conner's feet now that he is finally giving her the time of day.
My Thoughts-
I adore the humor in this book. There are some truly hysterical situations and scenes, but the wit is also there. Also, I am so glad that Hawkins didn't make Theodora's fiance some jerky guy. She took a way better, more interesting route in his character development that felt just perfect. Conner and Theodora are super duper hot, which I love. He's so surprised by their heat, and she's so true to herself; the inner conflicts shine and make you root for both characters. Hawkins' writing kept me rapt; I couldn't quit reading. The plot feels fresh. Even though it has been done before, it hasn't been done in this way with this humor. And yet, though there is humor, the heart is still here.
The Bottom Line-
If you love historical and haven't read Karen Hawkins, this is an EXCELLENT choice to start with. If you are a fan of hers, you probably already have this on pre-order. I cannot wait to read more from her. I highly recommend her to fans of Tessa Dare, Eloisa James, Loretta Chase, and Julie Garwood. And, to top it off, she writes Scots, which happens to be one of my fave historical sub-groups. 5 stars!
July 31, 2017
I got this ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Karen Hawkins did another great job though it’s not a typical Highland novel. Conner needs to marry an eligible woman – within three months – and there’s only one woman he can think of Thea, his best friend’s sister. If he doesn’t win her hand the family fortune might go to their rivals. But the story isn’t that easy. Conner is a privateer and Thea just eloped with a squire when Conner arrives to ask for his hand.
The problem is that Conner and Thea know each other quite well and she knows that he cannot live without his ships and the sea. He wants a biddable wife, so he can sail the seven seas and keep his mistresses.
But there is a magnetism between Conner and Thea, one that isn’t between Lance, the squire, and her at all but he was there and he asked for her hand.
It’s a funny story with lots of funny small intrigues, a well done novel but for me there was too little Highland flair in it, nevertheless Conner was a hot dude!
Karen Hawkins did another great job though it’s not a typical Highland novel. Conner needs to marry an eligible woman – within three months – and there’s only one woman he can think of Thea, his best friend’s sister. If he doesn’t win her hand the family fortune might go to their rivals. But the story isn’t that easy. Conner is a privateer and Thea just eloped with a squire when Conner arrives to ask for his hand.
The problem is that Conner and Thea know each other quite well and she knows that he cannot live without his ships and the sea. He wants a biddable wife, so he can sail the seven seas and keep his mistresses.
But there is a magnetism between Conner and Thea, one that isn’t between Lance, the squire, and her at all but he was there and he asked for her hand.
It’s a funny story with lots of funny small intrigues, a well done novel but for me there was too little Highland flair in it, nevertheless Conner was a hot dude!
June 18, 2022
Hero Connor, a privateer, also into shipping, was dark,
dangerous & used innuendo. Heroine Thea was thought
plain, mousy, demure and practical. Her squire suitor
Lance was a massive Adonis.
Hero bet his brothers he could get long-standing friend
Thea to accept his marriage proposal (no luck). What
followed was Thea and Lance eloping, & hero following.
And the 2 men competing for her affection, with wit &
strength, & cleverness.
Connor was a dreamy hero who won Thea over w/ his
intelligence, gentleness, vulnerability & virility. He
originated a compromise romance heroes are seldom
inclined to entertain, much less carry out. This was a
nearly perfect book, with a few reservations. Sorry I
can't recall when I finished this, so I will use today's
date.
dangerous & used innuendo. Heroine Thea was thought
plain, mousy, demure and practical. Her squire suitor
Lance was a massive Adonis.
Hero bet his brothers he could get long-standing friend
Thea to accept his marriage proposal (no luck). What
followed was Thea and Lance eloping, & hero following.
And the 2 men competing for her affection, with wit &
strength, & cleverness.
Connor was a dreamy hero who won Thea over w/ his
intelligence, gentleness, vulnerability & virility. He
originated a compromise romance heroes are seldom
inclined to entertain, much less carry out. This was a
nearly perfect book, with a few reservations. Sorry I
can't recall when I finished this, so I will use today's
date.
January 29, 2019
I couldn't get past the third chapter. The heroine is a bloody moron. She's had a crush on the guy for 15 years and hasn't ever found one other guy to even kiss? I don't care if it's Brad Pitt, if the man has zero interest in a girl for 15 years, it's not going to happen. Any woman that dumb needs heavy medication or someone to beat the crap out of her.
Then there was the usual bullshit where every girl loves him and it's waaaay overdone. Puke.
Then there was the usual bullshit where every girl loves him and it's waaaay overdone. Puke.
September 26, 2017
The beginning of a new series is always exciting, meeting new characters and being swept along into their adventures. Karen has written a wonderful start to this new series "The Made to Marry Series".
I am a big fan of "Love and Laughter" and that is what you will always get when you read Karen's books. Also, who doesn't love a handsome, brawny Scot in a kilt?
Connor Douglas is grieving the loss of his only sister, who died in childbirth when he is told that he must marry in three months time or lose his inheritance to his clan's enemies, the Campbells. Since he doesn't really want to get married or take the time to court a woman he comes up with a plan that will get him a wife who will agree to a marriage of convenience. He knows just the woman who will fit the bill. The younger sister of his best friend is a perfect choice, They have been friends for years and he knows that she is responsible and sensible and she is the only woman who won't demand love and fidelity. Only when he arrives at her home to propose he finds out she has eloped with another man.
He sets out after her in the hope he can stop the marriage.
Theodora Cumberbatch-Snowe is a young lady who is tired of being sensible and responsible. She wants a home of her own, a husband and children. On a whim, she elopes with a man that she has only known for weeks, She is having second thoughts about the man but she doesn't want to turn around and go home. Then Connor shows up and proposes to her while she is eloping with another man. She has secretly been in love with Connor for years and now he wants to marry her to secure his inheritance. This is where the fun starts. Connor makes friends with the man Thea eloped with to find out how he can sabotage their elopement. As their journey continues to Gretna Green Thea is regretting her decision, but she will not give Connor the satisfaction of knowing that she no longer wants to marry the Squire.
Thea fights the attraction because she knows that if she marries Connor he will sail away on one of his ships and leave her alone for months at a time. She realizes she still loves him but cannot marry him if doesn't give up the sea. Connor wants Thea with a passion that he never expected but he is afraid to love and he doesn't know if he can give up his wandering ways for her.
This is vintage Karen Hawkins. Characters who know each other and assume that they know how each other thinks. Witty dialogue back and forth, and a sexual attraction which is new to both of them. I love Karen's books because her stories are unique and her characters amazing. She makes me laugh out loud when I am reading her books. I highly recommend this book and cannot wait for the next book in the series.
I am a big fan of "Love and Laughter" and that is what you will always get when you read Karen's books. Also, who doesn't love a handsome, brawny Scot in a kilt?
Connor Douglas is grieving the loss of his only sister, who died in childbirth when he is told that he must marry in three months time or lose his inheritance to his clan's enemies, the Campbells. Since he doesn't really want to get married or take the time to court a woman he comes up with a plan that will get him a wife who will agree to a marriage of convenience. He knows just the woman who will fit the bill. The younger sister of his best friend is a perfect choice, They have been friends for years and he knows that she is responsible and sensible and she is the only woman who won't demand love and fidelity. Only when he arrives at her home to propose he finds out she has eloped with another man.
He sets out after her in the hope he can stop the marriage.
Theodora Cumberbatch-Snowe is a young lady who is tired of being sensible and responsible. She wants a home of her own, a husband and children. On a whim, she elopes with a man that she has only known for weeks, She is having second thoughts about the man but she doesn't want to turn around and go home. Then Connor shows up and proposes to her while she is eloping with another man. She has secretly been in love with Connor for years and now he wants to marry her to secure his inheritance. This is where the fun starts. Connor makes friends with the man Thea eloped with to find out how he can sabotage their elopement. As their journey continues to Gretna Green Thea is regretting her decision, but she will not give Connor the satisfaction of knowing that she no longer wants to marry the Squire.
Thea fights the attraction because she knows that if she marries Connor he will sail away on one of his ships and leave her alone for months at a time. She realizes she still loves him but cannot marry him if doesn't give up the sea. Connor wants Thea with a passion that he never expected but he is afraid to love and he doesn't know if he can give up his wandering ways for her.
This is vintage Karen Hawkins. Characters who know each other and assume that they know how each other thinks. Witty dialogue back and forth, and a sexual attraction which is new to both of them. I love Karen's books because her stories are unique and her characters amazing. She makes me laugh out loud when I am reading her books. I highly recommend this book and cannot wait for the next book in the series.
February 19, 2020
Conner Douglas ve kardeşleri vefat eden ablasının son arzusu üzerine evlenmeye karar veriyor. Connor denizlerde olduğu vakitlerde ona sorun çıkarmayacak, kendi halinde, aklı başında bir gelin olarak da en yakın arkadaşının kardeşi Theodora Cumberbatch-Snowe'u seçiyor.
Bilmediği şey ise bir büyükelçi kızı olan Thea'nın babasının görevi hasebiyle sürüklenip sürekli farklı yerlerde yaşamaktan yorulmuş olduğu. Sabit bir evi, yuvası olsun isteyen Thea evlenmek için genç bir toprak beyi olan Lance ile kaçmıştır.
Connor, kaçak Thea ve Lance'i Gretna Green yollarında yakalıyor. Fakat Thea'nın çantada keklik olmadığını bir kere daha anlıyor. Lance'in ona uygun olmadığını kanıtlamaya karar veriyor ve bunun için de türlü numaralarla yollarını uzatıyor.
Aşk üçgeni okumaya katlanamayanlar için açıklık getireyim, aşk üçgeni yok.
Diyaloglarıyla, karakterleriyle, gidişatıyla eğlenceli bir kitaptı. Keyifle okudum.
Bilmediği şey ise bir büyükelçi kızı olan Thea'nın babasının görevi hasebiyle sürüklenip sürekli farklı yerlerde yaşamaktan yorulmuş olduğu. Sabit bir evi, yuvası olsun isteyen Thea evlenmek için genç bir toprak beyi olan Lance ile kaçmıştır.
Connor, kaçak Thea ve Lance'i Gretna Green yollarında yakalıyor. Fakat Thea'nın çantada keklik olmadığını bir kere daha anlıyor. Lance'in ona uygun olmadığını kanıtlamaya karar veriyor ve bunun için de türlü numaralarla yollarını uzatıyor.
Aşk üçgeni okumaya katlanamayanlar için açıklık getireyim, aşk üçgeni yok.
Diyaloglarıyla, karakterleriyle, gidişatıyla eğlenceli bir kitaptı. Keyifle okudum.
September 26, 2017
Karen, you have really pulled out a deep story. I love your books and this tops this serious one with some fun along the way. Connor and his two brothers have to marry before 3 months sends their inheritance to their top enemy. It is from their just buried sister, Anna. They are mad but Connor goes first. He wants to choose his friend Theodora for his wife. Oops! She is eloping with a Squire! Major Spoiler! Connor got off, with an order to marry. NOT! Now he is always trying to goad her to marry him. Theo has always loved Connor but he didn't pay attendance to her. Connor is a privateer chasing the enemies at sea. She wants a man to live on land. This is where the twists and turns begin. I loved this book. Karen must have done a lot of research for this book as this book shows that. Do Not let this first book get away! There is another book coming! I hope you will enjoy reading this story! You won't regret it! I volunteered to read and review this book.
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