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Rogue Warriors #3
Claiming Her
She's an English lady who knows her duty to the Crown. He's a disreputable, dishonorable and sinfully handsome Irish warlord. When honor and passion collide, who will win their test of wills?
Not What She Wants…
Lady Katarina has safeguarded the Irish barony of Rardove for the queen of England with audacity and sheer will, bending to no man. But when the worst of the Irish warlords breaches the impenetrable castle walls through trickery, he threatens her personal wall of cool reserve as well. Aodh Mac Con is the most formidable man she's ever met, but the deeper danger of this Irish scoundrel is that only Aodh can see—and appreciate—the deepest, most hidden parts of her. Only Aodh can unleash her secret passions.
Can she stand firm, or will she fall too—straight into his arms?
Not What He Expects…
Aodh Mac Con, The Hound, is through serving the English Crown and waiting to be granted the barony he sees as his birthright. After taking control of the remote castle with his bold men, he turns his attention on Katarina, intending to conquer the cool, reserved chatelaine as he's done everything else in his life: by making her bend to his irresistible will.
Can he conquer her in time, before the armies of England come marching, or will the fire that fuels her defiance put everything he's fought for in peril?
Not What She Wants…
Lady Katarina has safeguarded the Irish barony of Rardove for the queen of England with audacity and sheer will, bending to no man. But when the worst of the Irish warlords breaches the impenetrable castle walls through trickery, he threatens her personal wall of cool reserve as well. Aodh Mac Con is the most formidable man she's ever met, but the deeper danger of this Irish scoundrel is that only Aodh can see—and appreciate—the deepest, most hidden parts of her. Only Aodh can unleash her secret passions.
Can she stand firm, or will she fall too—straight into his arms?
Not What He Expects…
Aodh Mac Con, The Hound, is through serving the English Crown and waiting to be granted the barony he sees as his birthright. After taking control of the remote castle with his bold men, he turns his attention on Katarina, intending to conquer the cool, reserved chatelaine as he's done everything else in his life: by making her bend to his irresistible will.
Can he conquer her in time, before the armies of England come marching, or will the fire that fuels her defiance put everything he's fought for in peril?
369 pages, Paperback
First published April 26, 2011
62 people are currently reading
987 people want to read
About the author
Kris Kennedy
15 books162 followersUSA Today bestselling historical romance author writing super sexy, big adventure romances set in the ages when big bad knights in armor and questionable chivalry reigned supreme.
The heroes are hard, the heroines strong, and the passion burns.
http://kriskennedy.net
I also write sweet & dirty fun romantic comedies as Bella Love!
http://bellalovebooks.com
Open to conversations here on Goodreads or over on the blog! Happy to friend everyone who loves romance. I love talking heroes, heroines, tropes, and...everything romance.
Absolutely the best way to get book news is to sign up for the newsletter. Sign up at the website, or sign up direct here: http://www.kriskennedy.net/newslettergr
Stop by the website for news & excerpts: http://kriskennedy.net
Twitter: @KrisKennedy
http://kriskennedy.net
The heroes are hard, the heroines strong, and the passion burns.
http://kriskennedy.net
I also write sweet & dirty fun romantic comedies as Bella Love!
http://bellalovebooks.com
Open to conversations here on Goodreads or over on the blog! Happy to friend everyone who loves romance. I love talking heroes, heroines, tropes, and...everything romance.
Absolutely the best way to get book news is to sign up for the newsletter. Sign up at the website, or sign up direct here: http://www.kriskennedy.net/newslettergr
Stop by the website for news & excerpts: http://kriskennedy.net
Twitter: @KrisKennedy
http://kriskennedy.net
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
March 26, 2017
4.5 stars
I waited years for this book and so I wanted to stretch it out and savor it, I'm happy to report it was very much worth the wait.
Katarina's parents were killed because of treasonous acts against the crown. Queen Elizabeth grew fond of her however, and seeing a little bit of herself in Katarina sent her to be chatelaine of Rardove, a castle in the wilds of Ireland. Aodh is originally a son of Ireland but after his father was killed in an uprising, he presented himself to the Queen and has traveled the world in her service. When Katarina's father's legacy brings about treason rumors against her, the Queen decides to gift the castle and Katarina to one of her supporters. Being passed over for what Aodh thought was promised him and what he considers his birthright, he decides to take what was denied him. Ireland is not for the weak and when Katarina and Aodh meet, the spark and burn will be hot enough to be felt by a monarch.
Then, soft and menacing, he whispered by her ear, "You want to fight, Katarina?"
I don't know Kris Kennedy and she doesn't know me but her stories always make me feel like she writes them exclusively for me. They are typically centered on Ireland or its people, set in the middle ages, and rich with history. I found this one to be slightly different from her others in that it focused more on the emotional aspects between our leads rather than the heavily intricate story plot and threads that make up the others. This book is set a couple generations after her others, specifically The Irish Warrior, but still ties into their story. It can definitely be read as a standalone but I loved how The Irish Warrior was almost a set-up with its complex building of plot and relationships that created a storyline and characters interwoven in a way that was all leading up to this moment.
"You said you were mine, Katy. When I was in you, as deep as a man can be, you looked in my eyes and said you were mine."
She peered at him. "You are not the sole possessor of me, Aodh."
He forced himself to breathe slowly. "What does that mean?"
"I too possess me."
She was the most infuriating woman alive."And so you do. But you said you were mine. I thought that meant…"
She straightened a little more. "I am not responsible for your thoughts. I am, indeed yours in…in that way." Her face flushed a delicate color. "That does not mean I am not also my own. And I am not marrying you."
I often bemoan missing the feeling of the time period in historicals, Ms. Kennedy nails it. The visions of sets and scenes transport me to her time and place. It goes beyond describing a gleaming sword or smelling of horse, there is a scene where Aodh sets up a series of maps for Katarina to look at. During this time where America is newly discovered and the world as a whole is a vastly mysterious place, this scene helps the reader to feel middle ages Europe through Katarina's wonderment and curiosity about a world she can barely comprehend. It also brings our leads together with Aodh providing knowledge to Katarina, which she finds sexy. This scene sets the time period and enhances our lead's chemistry in a natural flowing and feeling way (it also was extremely hot :).
"Leave us," he ordered quietly.
"You are always clearing the room," she complained as everyone left.
"You keep saying and doing such room-clearing things," he replied, drawing her toward the fire.
Along with bemoaning the feel of time period, I too often find myself in complaint with the modern bent of character's views and actions. Katarina is chatelaine of a castle and used to commanding and leading but there are limits to her freedom, which are addressed. Her actions and attitude are strong, smart, and brave, which any women, any time and place can demonstrate but she also operates within the feeling of her time period and space. She doesn't strap on a sword and demand to ride out into battle; she spends years training the women of the castle to help defend the walls. Aodh was the same amazing way of earning the title of hero without feeling anachronistic. After witnessing Katarina's abilities and knowledge he listens to her, invites her to his council to contribute but also doesn't like Katarina to contradict him in public. He values Katarina's knowledge and abilities but also knows how he must be seen. They have amazing push and pull moments of Aodh being impressed and turned on by Katarina's thoughts and actions and also being frustrated with them.
She sighed back. "I will try to be docile, but I fear it will fail."
"I know the sentiment," he admitted grimly.
As I mentioned earlier, this story is very character driven with the focus being solidly on Katarina and Aodh's relationship. If you want sizzling chemistry, push and pull, and desire spilling off the pages, you'll get it in spades here. What I loved was the inclusion of a lighter side to our characters that are living and going through a fairly dark time. The two immediate quotes showcased the humor and playfulness that existed between our leads that helped round out their relationship and made it feel more real. This is not what I would call erotic but there is an abundance of sensual scenes in this story. I would also say though, that it is the emotion between Katarina and Aodh that make the scenes hot and not the actual description of what is taking place.
As they said their vows, they could hear the sounds of the army coming down over the hills outside.
Even with the focus being more on our couple's relationship you still get the side addition of world politics and action. Elizabeth I is a significant secondary character and she brings along the sense of danger for our couple. All this helps to keep the story moving along as there is a definite time limit for our leads to debate their actions. There could have been a few intimate scenes that might have been cut out to help the middle part move along as it sagged a tiny bit but I wouldn't want to be the one to have to make that decision.
Brilliantly historical, emotional, hot, and engaging Claiming Her is one of the best books I've read all year. I thought Aodh was a little too lusty at times, there was a spanking scene that felt slightly out of place, and having read the author's other books, I missed more of her incredible complex storylines that seemed shunted here in favor of a more emotional feel. The epilogue left my heart feeling full and craving the next book. One of Aodh's friends speaks this line:
"Mayhap I will be the one to make it to the New World after all, Aodh, aye?"
Aodh began to grin. "You will be."
This might not be a tease as to what is next but how I want it to be. If you're craving a quality middle ages historical, Kris Kennedy needs to be your go to.
I waited years for this book and so I wanted to stretch it out and savor it, I'm happy to report it was very much worth the wait.
Katarina's parents were killed because of treasonous acts against the crown. Queen Elizabeth grew fond of her however, and seeing a little bit of herself in Katarina sent her to be chatelaine of Rardove, a castle in the wilds of Ireland. Aodh is originally a son of Ireland but after his father was killed in an uprising, he presented himself to the Queen and has traveled the world in her service. When Katarina's father's legacy brings about treason rumors against her, the Queen decides to gift the castle and Katarina to one of her supporters. Being passed over for what Aodh thought was promised him and what he considers his birthright, he decides to take what was denied him. Ireland is not for the weak and when Katarina and Aodh meet, the spark and burn will be hot enough to be felt by a monarch.
Then, soft and menacing, he whispered by her ear, "You want to fight, Katarina?"
I don't know Kris Kennedy and she doesn't know me but her stories always make me feel like she writes them exclusively for me. They are typically centered on Ireland or its people, set in the middle ages, and rich with history. I found this one to be slightly different from her others in that it focused more on the emotional aspects between our leads rather than the heavily intricate story plot and threads that make up the others. This book is set a couple generations after her others, specifically The Irish Warrior, but still ties into their story. It can definitely be read as a standalone but I loved how The Irish Warrior was almost a set-up with its complex building of plot and relationships that created a storyline and characters interwoven in a way that was all leading up to this moment.
"You said you were mine, Katy. When I was in you, as deep as a man can be, you looked in my eyes and said you were mine."
She peered at him. "You are not the sole possessor of me, Aodh."
He forced himself to breathe slowly. "What does that mean?"
"I too possess me."
She was the most infuriating woman alive."And so you do. But you said you were mine. I thought that meant…"
She straightened a little more. "I am not responsible for your thoughts. I am, indeed yours in…in that way." Her face flushed a delicate color. "That does not mean I am not also my own. And I am not marrying you."
I often bemoan missing the feeling of the time period in historicals, Ms. Kennedy nails it. The visions of sets and scenes transport me to her time and place. It goes beyond describing a gleaming sword or smelling of horse, there is a scene where Aodh sets up a series of maps for Katarina to look at. During this time where America is newly discovered and the world as a whole is a vastly mysterious place, this scene helps the reader to feel middle ages Europe through Katarina's wonderment and curiosity about a world she can barely comprehend. It also brings our leads together with Aodh providing knowledge to Katarina, which she finds sexy. This scene sets the time period and enhances our lead's chemistry in a natural flowing and feeling way (it also was extremely hot :).
"Leave us," he ordered quietly.
"You are always clearing the room," she complained as everyone left.
"You keep saying and doing such room-clearing things," he replied, drawing her toward the fire.
Along with bemoaning the feel of time period, I too often find myself in complaint with the modern bent of character's views and actions. Katarina is chatelaine of a castle and used to commanding and leading but there are limits to her freedom, which are addressed. Her actions and attitude are strong, smart, and brave, which any women, any time and place can demonstrate but she also operates within the feeling of her time period and space. She doesn't strap on a sword and demand to ride out into battle; she spends years training the women of the castle to help defend the walls. Aodh was the same amazing way of earning the title of hero without feeling anachronistic. After witnessing Katarina's abilities and knowledge he listens to her, invites her to his council to contribute but also doesn't like Katarina to contradict him in public. He values Katarina's knowledge and abilities but also knows how he must be seen. They have amazing push and pull moments of Aodh being impressed and turned on by Katarina's thoughts and actions and also being frustrated with them.
She sighed back. "I will try to be docile, but I fear it will fail."
"I know the sentiment," he admitted grimly.
As I mentioned earlier, this story is very character driven with the focus being solidly on Katarina and Aodh's relationship. If you want sizzling chemistry, push and pull, and desire spilling off the pages, you'll get it in spades here. What I loved was the inclusion of a lighter side to our characters that are living and going through a fairly dark time. The two immediate quotes showcased the humor and playfulness that existed between our leads that helped round out their relationship and made it feel more real. This is not what I would call erotic but there is an abundance of sensual scenes in this story. I would also say though, that it is the emotion between Katarina and Aodh that make the scenes hot and not the actual description of what is taking place.
As they said their vows, they could hear the sounds of the army coming down over the hills outside.
Even with the focus being more on our couple's relationship you still get the side addition of world politics and action. Elizabeth I is a significant secondary character and she brings along the sense of danger for our couple. All this helps to keep the story moving along as there is a definite time limit for our leads to debate their actions. There could have been a few intimate scenes that might have been cut out to help the middle part move along as it sagged a tiny bit but I wouldn't want to be the one to have to make that decision.
Brilliantly historical, emotional, hot, and engaging Claiming Her is one of the best books I've read all year. I thought Aodh was a little too lusty at times, there was a spanking scene that felt slightly out of place, and having read the author's other books, I missed more of her incredible complex storylines that seemed shunted here in favor of a more emotional feel. The epilogue left my heart feeling full and craving the next book. One of Aodh's friends speaks this line:
"Mayhap I will be the one to make it to the New World after all, Aodh, aye?"
Aodh began to grin. "You will be."
This might not be a tease as to what is next but how I want it to be. If you're craving a quality middle ages historical, Kris Kennedy needs to be your go to.
December 14, 2017
4.5 stars.
So I found a new author - thanks to Kyraraker - whose backlist I'll go through now, because, quite honestly, Claiming Her was an absolute treat I was not prepared for.
From the first page till the very last, Kris Kennedy has spun a story which is utterly delightful on so many levels that had me - messy, unreliable and impatient reader that I am - gripped from the very beginning. Now that I've finished it, I wonder why this author isn't more popular. Monica McCarty, who is so well loved, could and should learn a thing or two about pacing and writing, not to mention characterisation. It may be impolite to make comparisons, I may have read only this book by Ms Kennedy, and granted, Claiming Her covers a completely different time Era and conflict, but both authors use historical figures and events to tell their stories. And let me tell you, Ms Kennedy's characters didn't make me want to bang the book against the wall because one of the main characters or both acted stupidly beyond belief, which happened with at least half of Ms McCarty's characters of her Highland Guard series.
No, I was with Lady Katarina of Rardove and Aodh Mac Con at all times, getting to know them and love them. But most importantly, I understood their motivations; they weren't childishly stubborn and didn't let personal grudges turn to pettiness. Both their fathers' executed for treason, for different reasons however, both their mothers' dead in the struggle of and for their husbands, these two have been living their lives at the mercy of none other than Queen Elizabeth I. herself. And it is the Queen's unexpected (fickle?) decision that throws Katarina and Aodh together.
Holding the castle of Rardove in the name of the Queen, Katarina shows a tenacity that impresses even Elizabeth. But when rumours spread that Katarina may be helping traitorous Catholic priests, she will have to face the Queen's wrath in the form of Bertrand of Bridge who will interrogate her and, if she proves to be innocent, wed her. In any case, Bertrand will be the new Lord of Rardove. Now, this Aodh cannot allow. Having pirated and fought for Elizabeth for the past 16 years in the hope of getting his ancestral home back and having vaguely been promised Rardove Castle if he proves himself worthy, he sets out to take the castle against the expressed wishes of the Queen, thus committing treason. When he arrives at the castle, Katarina opens the gates for him, mistaking Aodh for Bertrand. Let the battle of wills begin!
Aodh, knowing the Queen well, sets up his own schemes to keep the castle, one of them being to marry Katarina. Katarina, however, well aware of how quickly the Queen's favour can turn, finds herself between a rock and a hard place. If she marries Aodh, she will commit treason. If she doesn't marry him, she will lose her home and may still face charges of treason.
Ms Kennedy's writing really shines here. It's fantastic; the way she sets up the scenes between Katarina and Aodh cleverly done, compelling and beautifully put into words. One scene in particular had me grinning from one ear to another:
The major themes throughout the book are loyalty and betrayal, and the choices one has to make. Now, Ms Kennedy could have gone the easy route and made loyalty and betrayal a clear black and white statement. But we're in the Elizabethan Era, the ever shifting alliances a dangerous ground to move on, and it's Katarina who has the hardest time of it. Whilst Aodh knows exactly where his loyalties lie, in general as well as in his personal life, Katarina is the one who comes to understand that loyalty may just as well mean betrayal, while betrayal may just as well mean loyalty. One only has to choose, if it were up to Aodh. He tries to push her, he does push her, but Katarina is no pushover! She has a mind of her own, a pretty one at that, and - this is where I seriously cheered for this woman - as hot as Aodh may be, she doesn't let him manipulate her into something she's unsure of. You go, girl!
There's attraction right from the start. But let me assure you, whatever fierce attraction/lust Katarina may feel for Aodh, she doesn't lose her senses because of it. She acknowledges it, but knows it will have dire consequences should she give in to it. She is feisty and intelligent; well aware of how much is at stake, not only for herself, but for those within the castle who are loyal to her. Her bitter past not making her bitter, but, in her own words: "she’d hammered herself anew. She was akin to steel now. Tempered, capable of great harm." And I loved her for it.
Aodh, on the other hand, equally traumatised by the past, is a hard, driven and single-minded man, who, nonetheless, inspires loyalty, even - in time - from those who have been conquered. He can be heavy handed (quite literally), but hey, given the times he lives in, I would have been taken aback if he had been a softer man. This makes him almost sound like a jerk. He isn't. Not at all. He quickly realises that he has found his match in Katarina, although admitting it is another matter. He's a wonderful hero who doesn't belittle Katarina, doesn't disrespect her, but he has to come to terms with the fact that Katarina needs to be convinced, not controlled or pushed. It's a lovely character development. If Katarina has to learn the murky lines between loyalty and betrayal, then Aodh has to learn the fine differences of a partnership. That's another point I loved about this book: without her support, he won't be able to win the support of the other tribes. His fate is just as much in her hands, as hers is in his.
Katarina and Aodh share a sensuality and chemistry that felt natural, and the moment they finally come together is more about their growing emotions for each other, rather than the obligatory sex scene(s) that needs to be there. Let me quote Kyraraker here, who described it beautifully in one of her status updates:
A spoiler warning for the more sensitive readers:
However descriptive they may be - and just to make this clear, I never felt overwhelmed by them or skipped them - Ms Kennedy's story doesn't rely on the sex scenes. Once their emotional and sexual relationship has been established, Katarina and Aodh must learn to trust each other's judgement, which is brilliantly done and the story comes back to the initial themes of loyalty and betrayal. How they are to get to stay together, keep the castle and win the Queen's approval, is a matter that dominates the last 40% of the book. As I said earlier, considering that the first 30% covered just the very first day Katarina and Aodh meet, I was concerned that the romance and/or backstory would suffer. I didn't know I was in for a surprise! The author masterfully redirects the focus on the issue of treason which is always lurking in the background, never forgotten or sacrificed for the sexy times.
Whilst initially the secondary characters are simply persons in which Katarina and Aodh reflect their relationship upon, their characterisation in the second half takes more centre stage without becoming overwhelming. Actually, I loved their interactions. Especially Aodh's lieutenants, Ré and Cormac, and his squire Bran, all play their parts in helping Katarina and Aodh not only stay together but win the castle back. Elizabeth has a few scenes, but it's the last one where she comes face to face with the traitors, Katarina and Aodh, that is fantastic. Ms Kennedy's talent captures the complexity of such a historical figure (what an understatement!) so much so that I was glued to the pages.
Claiming Her is a Historical Romance which is still my favourite romance sub genre, it feels like a Historical Romance and it breathes like a Historical Romance. Something that I sorely miss these days, thanks to the endless cookie cutter Regencies. Furthermore, it had drama! I mentioned it in another review the other day that I'm not opposed to drama if it's not for drama's sake. Nope, the drama here feels quite real, and although knowing it's a romance and there will be a HEA, the dramatic events towards the end had me all twisted up and going 'Oh no, no, no! Please, no!!!' I loved every moment of it.
The book showed me how rudimentary my knowledge of Irish history is, if not actually non-existent up until Oliver Cromwell. But I shall pick up on that, thanks to Kris Kennedy. She also provides some background knowledge to her book in her author's note.
Lovely, lovely book.
So I found a new author - thanks to Kyraraker - whose backlist I'll go through now, because, quite honestly, Claiming Her was an absolute treat I was not prepared for.
From the first page till the very last, Kris Kennedy has spun a story which is utterly delightful on so many levels that had me - messy, unreliable and impatient reader that I am - gripped from the very beginning. Now that I've finished it, I wonder why this author isn't more popular. Monica McCarty, who is so well loved, could and should learn a thing or two about pacing and writing, not to mention characterisation. It may be impolite to make comparisons, I may have read only this book by Ms Kennedy, and granted, Claiming Her covers a completely different time Era and conflict, but both authors use historical figures and events to tell their stories. And let me tell you, Ms Kennedy's characters didn't make me want to bang the book against the wall because one of the main characters or both acted stupidly beyond belief, which happened with at least half of Ms McCarty's characters of her Highland Guard series.
No, I was with Lady Katarina of Rardove and Aodh Mac Con at all times, getting to know them and love them. But most importantly, I understood their motivations; they weren't childishly stubborn and didn't let personal grudges turn to pettiness. Both their fathers' executed for treason, for different reasons however, both their mothers' dead in the struggle of and for their husbands, these two have been living their lives at the mercy of none other than Queen Elizabeth I. herself. And it is the Queen's unexpected (fickle?) decision that throws Katarina and Aodh together.
Holding the castle of Rardove in the name of the Queen, Katarina shows a tenacity that impresses even Elizabeth. But when rumours spread that Katarina may be helping traitorous Catholic priests, she will have to face the Queen's wrath in the form of Bertrand of Bridge who will interrogate her and, if she proves to be innocent, wed her. In any case, Bertrand will be the new Lord of Rardove. Now, this Aodh cannot allow. Having pirated and fought for Elizabeth for the past 16 years in the hope of getting his ancestral home back and having vaguely been promised Rardove Castle if he proves himself worthy, he sets out to take the castle against the expressed wishes of the Queen, thus committing treason. When he arrives at the castle, Katarina opens the gates for him, mistaking Aodh for Bertrand. Let the battle of wills begin!
Aodh, knowing the Queen well, sets up his own schemes to keep the castle, one of them being to marry Katarina. Katarina, however, well aware of how quickly the Queen's favour can turn, finds herself between a rock and a hard place. If she marries Aodh, she will commit treason. If she doesn't marry him, she will lose her home and may still face charges of treason.
Ms Kennedy's writing really shines here. It's fantastic; the way she sets up the scenes between Katarina and Aodh cleverly done, compelling and beautifully put into words. One scene in particular had me grinning from one ear to another:
He bent to the floor beside him, lifted something, and tossed it onto the table. It was a lightweight sword belt, blades attached.These two are actually fantastic. The first 30% (!) of the book covers the first day, and it had me a little worried. I had read another book (can't remember which anymore), set up in the same way, and it was too much page time for the author to pick up the story and move it forward. Not here.
Her blades.
Other weapons followed behind, hitting the table with muted thuds: the long clumsy dagger; the short, fierce knife; the sleek, keen-edged misericorde. Her wheel-lock pistol. The newer snaphances. Five of them.
Why, he’d found everything. How… unsettling.
They stared at the deadly cache together in silence a moment. Then she cleared her throat. “Ireland is a dangerous land.”
He gave a low laugh. “Aye, Katarina. With you in it.”
The major themes throughout the book are loyalty and betrayal, and the choices one has to make. Now, Ms Kennedy could have gone the easy route and made loyalty and betrayal a clear black and white statement. But we're in the Elizabethan Era, the ever shifting alliances a dangerous ground to move on, and it's Katarina who has the hardest time of it. Whilst Aodh knows exactly where his loyalties lie, in general as well as in his personal life, Katarina is the one who comes to understand that loyalty may just as well mean betrayal, while betrayal may just as well mean loyalty. One only has to choose, if it were up to Aodh. He tries to push her, he does push her, but Katarina is no pushover! She has a mind of her own, a pretty one at that, and - this is where I seriously cheered for this woman - as hot as Aodh may be, she doesn't let him manipulate her into something she's unsure of. You go, girl!
There's attraction right from the start. But let me assure you, whatever fierce attraction/lust Katarina may feel for Aodh, she doesn't lose her senses because of it. She acknowledges it, but knows it will have dire consequences should she give in to it. She is feisty and intelligent; well aware of how much is at stake, not only for herself, but for those within the castle who are loyal to her. Her bitter past not making her bitter, but, in her own words: "she’d hammered herself anew. She was akin to steel now. Tempered, capable of great harm." And I loved her for it.
Aodh, on the other hand, equally traumatised by the past, is a hard, driven and single-minded man, who, nonetheless, inspires loyalty, even - in time - from those who have been conquered. He can be heavy handed (quite literally), but hey, given the times he lives in, I would have been taken aback if he had been a softer man. This makes him almost sound like a jerk. He isn't. Not at all. He quickly realises that he has found his match in Katarina, although admitting it is another matter. He's a wonderful hero who doesn't belittle Katarina, doesn't disrespect her, but he has to come to terms with the fact that Katarina needs to be convinced, not controlled or pushed. It's a lovely character development. If Katarina has to learn the murky lines between loyalty and betrayal, then Aodh has to learn the fine differences of a partnership. That's another point I loved about this book: without her support, he won't be able to win the support of the other tribes. His fate is just as much in her hands, as hers is in his.
Katarina and Aodh share a sensuality and chemistry that felt natural, and the moment they finally come together is more about their growing emotions for each other, rather than the obligatory sex scene(s) that needs to be there. Let me quote Kyraraker here, who described it beautifully in one of her status updates:
[The book] has the deep emotional aspect of wonderful historical romance books but a lot of it comes out during sensual scenes, which like I said, there is a lot. They don't have a heavy erotic feel, they're more emotional and less fixated on the act but they're also pretty descriptive. Did you ever watch the movie 300? The sex scene between Gerald Butler and Lena Headly is the best comparison I can make, deeply emotional but also spine tingling erotic.The sex is truly a natural development of their relationship, mirroring their growing emotions, bonding them beyond the physical act. It's not love for lust's sake that we sadly see so often in romances, but love slowly building its way through the time spent together, the growing respect, the understanding for each other.
A spoiler warning for the more sensitive readers:
However descriptive they may be - and just to make this clear, I never felt overwhelmed by them or skipped them - Ms Kennedy's story doesn't rely on the sex scenes. Once their emotional and sexual relationship has been established, Katarina and Aodh must learn to trust each other's judgement, which is brilliantly done and the story comes back to the initial themes of loyalty and betrayal. How they are to get to stay together, keep the castle and win the Queen's approval, is a matter that dominates the last 40% of the book. As I said earlier, considering that the first 30% covered just the very first day Katarina and Aodh meet, I was concerned that the romance and/or backstory would suffer. I didn't know I was in for a surprise! The author masterfully redirects the focus on the issue of treason which is always lurking in the background, never forgotten or sacrificed for the sexy times.
Whilst initially the secondary characters are simply persons in which Katarina and Aodh reflect their relationship upon, their characterisation in the second half takes more centre stage without becoming overwhelming. Actually, I loved their interactions. Especially Aodh's lieutenants, Ré and Cormac, and his squire Bran, all play their parts in helping Katarina and Aodh not only stay together but win the castle back. Elizabeth has a few scenes, but it's the last one where she comes face to face with the traitors, Katarina and Aodh, that is fantastic. Ms Kennedy's talent captures the complexity of such a historical figure (what an understatement!) so much so that I was glued to the pages.
Claiming Her is a Historical Romance which is still my favourite romance sub genre, it feels like a Historical Romance and it breathes like a Historical Romance. Something that I sorely miss these days, thanks to the endless cookie cutter Regencies. Furthermore, it had drama! I mentioned it in another review the other day that I'm not opposed to drama if it's not for drama's sake. Nope, the drama here feels quite real, and although knowing it's a romance and there will be a HEA, the dramatic events towards the end had me all twisted up and going 'Oh no, no, no! Please, no!!!' I loved every moment of it.
The book showed me how rudimentary my knowledge of Irish history is, if not actually non-existent up until Oliver Cromwell. But I shall pick up on that, thanks to Kris Kennedy. She also provides some background knowledge to her book in her author's note.
Lovely, lovely book.
April 29, 2018
3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was an enjoyable read. I read in reviews words like "banter" and "hot" and was sold. I do think that the tension was hot and the banter was spot on, so in terms of hr for me that makes this a winner. I did, however, feel like it dragged a little at times. It took me a few days to complete, and for me that says something. I did appreciate that there wasn't a ton of back history about the area or timeframe, but it felt like just enough to get me set up for this story. I liked the author's voice, so I do think I will try her works again in the future -- if any of you have recommendations I'm all for it!
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Katarina and Aodh's story. Katarina has been the keeper of a castle in Ireland for the Queen of England for many years. The Queen had decided to send one of her counselors to investigate a claim that Katarina has been involved in treason and to either detain her or marry her and take control of the castle. Katarina is shocked to find her castle overtaken by Aodh, who the Queen had betrayed by not giving the castle to him instead of the other nobleman. There is some fighting but eventually neither of them can deny the strong connection they feel towards one another, but Katarina knows that by marrying Aodh she will be seen as a traitor by the Queen for sure. There are some suspenseful moments, some sexy times, and some sweet moments...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between focusing mainly on Katarina and Aohd in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Okay. It did feel slow at times and as it was on the longer side it kinda felt that way too (364 pages in my kindle app).
Instalove: No. Instalust? Yes.
H rating: 4 stars. Aodh. I liked him! He was sweet at times, but also sexy and alpha.
h rating: 4.5 stars. Katarina. I really liked her! She was a great combination of tough, smart, and sweet.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Physically yes, but not in the relationship.
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had good closure and what I would call a HEA ending
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Overall Opinion: This was an enjoyable read. I read in reviews words like "banter" and "hot" and was sold. I do think that the tension was hot and the banter was spot on, so in terms of hr for me that makes this a winner. I did, however, feel like it dragged a little at times. It took me a few days to complete, and for me that says something. I did appreciate that there wasn't a ton of back history about the area or timeframe, but it felt like just enough to get me set up for this story. I liked the author's voice, so I do think I will try her works again in the future -- if any of you have recommendations I'm all for it!
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Katarina and Aodh's story. Katarina has been the keeper of a castle in Ireland for the Queen of England for many years. The Queen had decided to send one of her counselors to investigate a claim that Katarina has been involved in treason and to either detain her or marry her and take control of the castle. Katarina is shocked to find her castle overtaken by Aodh, who the Queen had betrayed by not giving the castle to him instead of the other nobleman. There is some fighting but eventually neither of them can deny the strong connection they feel towards one another, but Katarina knows that by marrying Aodh she will be seen as a traitor by the Queen for sure. There are some suspenseful moments, some sexy times, and some sweet moments...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between focusing mainly on Katarina and Aohd in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Okay. It did feel slow at times and as it was on the longer side it kinda felt that way too (364 pages in my kindle app).
Instalove: No. Instalust? Yes.
H rating: 4 stars. Aodh. I liked him! He was sweet at times, but also sexy and alpha.
h rating: 4.5 stars. Katarina. I really liked her! She was a great combination of tough, smart, and sweet.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Physically yes, but not in the relationship.
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had good closure and what I would call a HEA ending
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
December 13, 2017
This book starts with a bang!
You put yourself in our heroine place when a sixty knights appear at your door and you know that you’re doomed to marry their leader…
What would you do?
Open the portcullis and welcome him, no?
And then, when you discover that he’s not the one you’re expecting, what would you do?
Acquiesce, no? He’s strong, a mountain of man and you’re a frail pampered lady…
But NO, not here and not Katarina! She just seems like a frail lady, but if you underestimate her, you’ll end with your own dagger at your throat. And not once, but twice!
Ah, folks, what an adventure this book is! I LOVED everything here. Every. Single. Page!
Both Aodh and Katarina were magnificent. Both were strong, but not uselessly stubborn. Both were intelligent and cunning. And ready to understand each other’s views without meaningless drama and angst!
Boy, I loved both of them! Their sexy times, their arguing, their fights, their passion and love! And their humor too! Because this book is not dry but vibrant and interesting and full of life!
It is a MUST READ for all HR fans! Really! Believe me and run to get a copy!
March 1, 2018
4.5
Sigh.
I am a sucker for a book of political intrigue and the like-not just in romance but I am finding it especially fun in romance.
This book was set in the 1580s and it was so lovely and frankly exciting. This was one of those best types of couples, well-matched, lovely, funny, and let's not forget, lusty. The secondary characters in this were equally compelling and lively. One of the things I really enjoy in characters is an element of loyalty and it was lovely to see how it played out here in a somewhat complicated, yet wonderful way.
I guess I don't have much to say other than I really enjoyed this and look forward to rereading.
Sigh.
I am a sucker for a book of political intrigue and the like-not just in romance but I am finding it especially fun in romance.
This book was set in the 1580s and it was so lovely and frankly exciting. This was one of those best types of couples, well-matched, lovely, funny, and let's not forget, lusty. The secondary characters in this were equally compelling and lively. One of the things I really enjoy in characters is an element of loyalty and it was lovely to see how it played out here in a somewhat complicated, yet wonderful way.
I guess I don't have much to say other than I really enjoyed this and look forward to rereading.
May 24, 2018
2.5 Stars
I know this is a well-loved book among my friends, but I really struggled to get into it. I love Irish history and was excited to read an Irish HR, but it did not satisfy my cravings in either sense. Besides a few small details, it felt like it was set in a Castle that could have been Scotland or Wales. It DID NOT feel Irish to me.
There were moments I enjoyed, and moments are what they stayed. Every time I felt momentum gaining something derailed it. One of those derailing features was the character of the Queen. There were times where her thoughts were featured as a POV. That really bothered me. In general, I prefer major historical figures featured in as small of a role as possible, and I didn’t feel the degree in which her perspective was shown was necessary nor did it feel genuine.
The romance was only OK. It was too push and pull for me, too yes and no. I thought the dialogue sort of fun but also basic. Ultimately, I would not have finished without having joined a buddy read. It was disappointing and unsatisfying for me, though it was likely due in large part to the too high expectations I had.
I know this is a well-loved book among my friends, but I really struggled to get into it. I love Irish history and was excited to read an Irish HR, but it did not satisfy my cravings in either sense. Besides a few small details, it felt like it was set in a Castle that could have been Scotland or Wales. It DID NOT feel Irish to me.
There were moments I enjoyed, and moments are what they stayed. Every time I felt momentum gaining something derailed it. One of those derailing features was the character of the Queen. There were times where her thoughts were featured as a POV. That really bothered me. In general, I prefer major historical figures featured in as small of a role as possible, and I didn’t feel the degree in which her perspective was shown was necessary nor did it feel genuine.
The romance was only OK. It was too push and pull for me, too yes and no. I thought the dialogue sort of fun but also basic. Ultimately, I would not have finished without having joined a buddy read. It was disappointing and unsatisfying for me, though it was likely due in large part to the too high expectations I had.
May 5, 2022
Rebels with a cause.
This was delightfully sexy and action-packed.
I got this recommendation from WhiskeyInTheJar and she never steers me wrong on a good historical romance. Thanks! See her link for a more in-depth review.
Katarina is the Lady March lord, holding a castles for Queen Bess just beyond the Pale in Ireland. She is not a fake strong women, she is clever, a good tactician, and fine leader. Plus, the sexy times with Aodh are verra, verra nice.
A gift from my Secret Valentine - much thanks :)
(\_/)
(o.o)
c♥️
This was delightfully sexy and action-packed.
I got this recommendation from WhiskeyInTheJar and she never steers me wrong on a good historical romance. Thanks! See her link for a more in-depth review.
Katarina is the Lady March lord, holding a castles for Queen Bess just beyond the Pale in Ireland. She is not a fake strong women, she is clever, a good tactician, and fine leader. Plus, the sexy times with Aodh are verra, verra nice.
A gift from my Secret Valentine - much thanks :)
(\_/)
(o.o)
c♥️
May 8, 2016
Rating 3.75
Real quick review with a more detailed one to come.
Great start with strong characters and writing. The hero was wonderful and I liked the heroine as well,both had depth and evolved. But as I progressed further into the book it seemed to get bogged down with dialogue and at times seemed too wordy. But all in all a well written and character driven historical read!!!
Real quick review with a more detailed one to come.
Great start with strong characters and writing. The hero was wonderful and I liked the heroine as well,both had depth and evolved. But as I progressed further into the book it seemed to get bogged down with dialogue and at times seemed too wordy. But all in all a well written and character driven historical read!!!
June 3, 2016
Favorite Quote: He was magnificent. What a terrible, terrible thing. Any moment now, he was going to do something wild and barbaric.
What a fun book. A rebel Irish hero, with the sides of his head shaved and tattoos covering his body. And a heroine, loyal to the English throne, who has kept her Irish castle from invaders for years....until the hero tricks her. Let me set it up.
After her father was beheaded and her mother died of a broken heart, the Queen of England took pity on Katarina, and let her reside, and control the English stronghold castle, Rardove in Ireland. She has held this castle with very few, but very loyal men and is happy to be in a part of Ireland where no one really bothers her. But when the Queen decides she needs to marry, Katarina accepts her fate, as she has true devotion to the queen. When her betrothed arrives, she welcomes him - but soon realizes the man and the army standing in front of her, is not her betrothed - it is Aodh Mac Con, the Hound. Aodh claims this castle is his - and belongs to Ireland, and without much of a fight - takes the castle as his own and he feels victorious. He has been known as many things - Councilor to the queen, a warlord, an Irish pirate - but now he is home in his castle, and basically tells the Queen to shove it (except more in a sixteenth century way). What he is not expecting is Katarina. She is gorgeous, and while he stares at her, she takes both of his knives and holds them to his throat. Her fiery passion makes his loins burn. (but in a non-cheesy way).
“If I were a man, sir,” she whispered back, “you would already be dead.”
Goddammit.
It was his dagger, one of many strapped to his body. In the mêlée, she’d succeeded in getting it free. In the distraction of staring into her eyes, trying to ascertain if she were mad, she’d succeeded in lifting it to his throat.
A rush went through him, hot and intense. “You are left-handed,” he observed grimly.
“When necessary.”
A humming filled his stomach, deep and low. He’d come for battle, and that this slim audacious woman had given it to him, undefended, in a hopeless situation, outmatched and overpowered, bespoke great boldness.
Katarina will have none of this rebel in her castle. The problem is, his men far outweigh hers - and soon this sexy beast is luring her with his savage ways. Aodh wants her badly - but he is a moral savage. Women are to be treated with respect - and as long as Katarina does everything he says, all is well. Except she pretty much does nothing he says and chaos ensues. When she pushes back, he locks her up - there are many moments of them just conversing alone in a room which worked really well in this book.
I love it when an author writes a villainous hero just right. She allows him to stay a villain long enough to you want him to suffer a bit, but then slowly turns him into a great romantic hero. And Aodh does just that. And while I loved him and he made me swoon, Katarina steals the show.
I love that she recognizes her lusty feelings for Aodh, but she still remains her own person:
"You said you were mine, Katy. When I was in you, deep as a man can be, you looked in my eyes and said you were mine."
She peered at him. "You are not the sole possessor of me, Aodh"
He forced himself to breathe slowly. "What does that mean?"
"I too possess me."
Aodh falls hard for Katarina, but he also knows, if she marries him, they will have a united front against the queen. However, Katarina is loyal to the queen, and terrified of committing treason (as her father did). While she is greatly attracted to Aodh.....
Why must this Irish rebel be so precisely the manifestation of her secret desires?
...she can't bear to commit treason.
It's not just Aodh's sexy looks or naughty behavior that gets her going. It's the promise of adventure. He has seen a lot of the world. He has experienced things she can only dream of. He stimulates her mind:
“It is beautiful,” she whispered.
“It is a map. Of the world.”
The softest intake of breath passed across her lips, not quite surprise. A little higher pitched, a little more silvery, a little more feminine, nigh onto a gasp of…pleasure.
His map had pleased her.
Savage satisfaction roared through him. Standing in a great hall, looking down at a map, he felt blown back by a wind.
Aodh wants to give this all to her - and his cock - but she is a stubborn, stubborn woman.
In time, they truly fall in love and I found it very well done.
We also get really fun supporting characters in best friends and fellow soldiers of Aodh:
“The queen’s going to want your pretty head, Aodh, and a few other body parts as well.” Cormac eyed him appraisingly. “Your frightfully big bollocks, to start with. Dangle ’em right off the Tower if she gets a chance.”
Aodh nodded. “Your insights are fascinating. Recall to me why I bring you with me?”
Smart dialogue and witty banter made me smile throughout the book. As these two fall in love, England comes marching to take the castle back. It adds some adventure and conflict into the book.
Did I mention this book is also.....wicked?
“So hard,” she whispered.
“Aye. Hard. That’s how I like it.”
A little pant broke from her as she tried it herself, moved her fist up him, a fine, hard stroke, then looked up at him.
“Is that proper?” she whispered, trembling.
He smiled. “Not a’tall, lass. ’Tis quite wicked.” He moved their hands again.
“Wicked,” she echoed, her lips parted in a pretty, wet pant.
“You like wicked, Katy girl?”
Passion-heavy eyes lifted to his. “I like your wicked.”
“Then take me in your mouth. You look good. I want to feel you.”
Super fun. Love this author's voice.
Grade: B+
What a fun book. A rebel Irish hero, with the sides of his head shaved and tattoos covering his body. And a heroine, loyal to the English throne, who has kept her Irish castle from invaders for years....until the hero tricks her. Let me set it up.
After her father was beheaded and her mother died of a broken heart, the Queen of England took pity on Katarina, and let her reside, and control the English stronghold castle, Rardove in Ireland. She has held this castle with very few, but very loyal men and is happy to be in a part of Ireland where no one really bothers her. But when the Queen decides she needs to marry, Katarina accepts her fate, as she has true devotion to the queen. When her betrothed arrives, she welcomes him - but soon realizes the man and the army standing in front of her, is not her betrothed - it is Aodh Mac Con, the Hound. Aodh claims this castle is his - and belongs to Ireland, and without much of a fight - takes the castle as his own and he feels victorious. He has been known as many things - Councilor to the queen, a warlord, an Irish pirate - but now he is home in his castle, and basically tells the Queen to shove it (except more in a sixteenth century way). What he is not expecting is Katarina. She is gorgeous, and while he stares at her, she takes both of his knives and holds them to his throat. Her fiery passion makes his loins burn. (but in a non-cheesy way).
“If I were a man, sir,” she whispered back, “you would already be dead.”
Goddammit.
It was his dagger, one of many strapped to his body. In the mêlée, she’d succeeded in getting it free. In the distraction of staring into her eyes, trying to ascertain if she were mad, she’d succeeded in lifting it to his throat.
A rush went through him, hot and intense. “You are left-handed,” he observed grimly.
“When necessary.”
A humming filled his stomach, deep and low. He’d come for battle, and that this slim audacious woman had given it to him, undefended, in a hopeless situation, outmatched and overpowered, bespoke great boldness.
Katarina will have none of this rebel in her castle. The problem is, his men far outweigh hers - and soon this sexy beast is luring her with his savage ways. Aodh wants her badly - but he is a moral savage. Women are to be treated with respect - and as long as Katarina does everything he says, all is well. Except she pretty much does nothing he says and chaos ensues. When she pushes back, he locks her up - there are many moments of them just conversing alone in a room which worked really well in this book.
I love it when an author writes a villainous hero just right. She allows him to stay a villain long enough to you want him to suffer a bit, but then slowly turns him into a great romantic hero. And Aodh does just that. And while I loved him and he made me swoon, Katarina steals the show.
I love that she recognizes her lusty feelings for Aodh, but she still remains her own person:
"You said you were mine, Katy. When I was in you, deep as a man can be, you looked in my eyes and said you were mine."
She peered at him. "You are not the sole possessor of me, Aodh"
He forced himself to breathe slowly. "What does that mean?"
"I too possess me."
Aodh falls hard for Katarina, but he also knows, if she marries him, they will have a united front against the queen. However, Katarina is loyal to the queen, and terrified of committing treason (as her father did). While she is greatly attracted to Aodh.....
Why must this Irish rebel be so precisely the manifestation of her secret desires?
...she can't bear to commit treason.
It's not just Aodh's sexy looks or naughty behavior that gets her going. It's the promise of adventure. He has seen a lot of the world. He has experienced things she can only dream of. He stimulates her mind:
“It is beautiful,” she whispered.
“It is a map. Of the world.”
The softest intake of breath passed across her lips, not quite surprise. A little higher pitched, a little more silvery, a little more feminine, nigh onto a gasp of…pleasure.
His map had pleased her.
Savage satisfaction roared through him. Standing in a great hall, looking down at a map, he felt blown back by a wind.
Aodh wants to give this all to her - and his cock - but she is a stubborn, stubborn woman.
In time, they truly fall in love and I found it very well done.
We also get really fun supporting characters in best friends and fellow soldiers of Aodh:
“The queen’s going to want your pretty head, Aodh, and a few other body parts as well.” Cormac eyed him appraisingly. “Your frightfully big bollocks, to start with. Dangle ’em right off the Tower if she gets a chance.”
Aodh nodded. “Your insights are fascinating. Recall to me why I bring you with me?”
Smart dialogue and witty banter made me smile throughout the book. As these two fall in love, England comes marching to take the castle back. It adds some adventure and conflict into the book.
Did I mention this book is also.....wicked?
“So hard,” she whispered.
“Aye. Hard. That’s how I like it.”
A little pant broke from her as she tried it herself, moved her fist up him, a fine, hard stroke, then looked up at him.
“Is that proper?” she whispered, trembling.
He smiled. “Not a’tall, lass. ’Tis quite wicked.” He moved their hands again.
“Wicked,” she echoed, her lips parted in a pretty, wet pant.
“You like wicked, Katy girl?”
Passion-heavy eyes lifted to his. “I like your wicked.”
“Then take me in your mouth. You look good. I want to feel you.”
Super fun. Love this author's voice.
Grade: B+
dnf
February 14, 2023DNF @ 33%
Just not feeling this.
Just not feeling this.
June 3, 2018
It has been so god-damned long since I got to read an amaze-balls medieval historical romance; I simply did not want Claiming Her to end! New readers, do ignore the bodice ripper-esque title , for Kris Kennedy writes stuff miles and miles superior.
Katarina holds Rardove Castle in the remote wilds of Ireland, in honour of Queen Elizabeth of England - who executed her parents for treason but spared Katarina. Underequipped and understaffed, Katarina nevertheless manages to eke out a living - Rardove's isolation keeping its enemies none too wiser. But that is all about to change. The mercurial Queen hears rumours of Katarina planning treason, and promptly dispatches her interrogator Betrand of Bridge to Rardove - to bring her to justice, or if innocent, to marry Katarina... Which leads it to be an opportunity of a lifetime for Aodh Mac Con. A son of Rardove by blood, Aodh's family were also slaughtered by the Queen. Now, after 16 years as her trusted counselor and champion, Aodh grows tired of her inconstant reassurances to his birthright. When he arrives at Rardove, Katarina allows him inside mistaking him for Betrand. Having staged a bloodless coup, Aodh installs himself as the new Master of Rardove - a title Katarina has no intention of reliquishing without a fight!
At the outset, Claiming Her is a story of two people at cross purposes forced to live together. Kris Kennedy could have taken the easy way out and made this into a staunch loyalist vs roguish rebel plot. Mind you, this is an era where politics was a minefield of opportunistic power-players, and a seemingly fickle Queen made life-or-death decisions for her subjects. While Aodh may have his priorities sorted out, Katarina is mortally afraid of being judged as a traitor by the Queen and subjected to her father's fate. I appreciated that we gota layered narrative on what drives Aodh and Katarina to the choices they wish to stand by.
Another aspect I just have to squee over is the sense of atmosphere that the author delivers. I was transported to Rardove in all its glory - with its sudden, chilling gusts of drafty wind and the way it made the embers in the fireplace pop and crackle. Or the way information and knowledge were treated like pure, precious pearls - Aodh spreading across by the candle light, an intricate, hand-painted map of the world; and Katarina's sense of wonder and unadulterated joy at seeing the world at her fingertips.
XXX
Her blades.
Other weapons followed behind, hitting the table with muted thuds: the long clumsy dagger; the short, fierce knife; the sleek, keen-edged misericorde. Her wheel-lock pistol. The newer snaphances. Five of them.
Why, he’d found everything. How… unsettling.
They stared at the deadly cache together in silence a moment. Then she cleared her throat. “Ireland is a dangerous land.”
He gave a low laugh. “Aye, Katarina. With you in it.”
XXX
Which gets us to the spine-tingling chemistry that Aodh and Katarina discover. Undoubtedly, the intense attraction between the leads is the driving force behind the story - however, I wouldn't term it as insta-lust. It was more of a meeting of two people who were meant to be, and the conflict is played out beautifully -
XXX
"You said you were mine, Katy. When I was in you, as deep as a man can be, you looked in my eyes and said you were mine."
She peered at him. "You are not the sole possessor of me, Aodh."
He forced himself to breathe slowly. "What does that mean?"
"I too possess me."
She was the most infuriating woman alive."And so you do. But you said you were mine. I thought that meant…"
She straightened a little more. "I am not responsible for your thoughts. I am, indeed yours in…in that way." ... "That does not mean I am not also my own. And I am not marrying you."
XXX
I totally love that while the lust is an important part of their relationship, the leads can acknowledge it and it doesn't come in the way of their' sticking up for oneself and having differing opinions. Having been the chateleine of Rardove her entire life, Katarina is used to having a unilateral command of her domain. The author has made her incredibly period-appropriate - she does not strap on a broadsword and run into battle; however her very important trade alliances with the neighbours and grasp of the terrain makes her invaluable and important in her own right. More so for Aodh, who again is a very period - appropriate hero. He finds Katarina's skills and knowledge attractive, and even invites her into his trusted council meetings. At the same time, he wants to remain the sole, unchallenged master of Rardove and hates it when Katarina disagrees with him in public.
XXX
What I am telling you, Katy, is your path is laid, and it is my path. Our path. And battle is coming, whether you wish it or no. So knowing that, you stand fast. And Jesus God”—his voice broke—“you do not let them lure you.”
His hands gripped her elbows so hard, his knuckles were almost white. His face was taut, his voice rasping, the eyes staring into hers so filled with emotion, it almost broke her heart.
He was afraid for her.
XXX
A must read for all HR fans!
Katarina holds Rardove Castle in the remote wilds of Ireland, in honour of Queen Elizabeth of England - who executed her parents for treason but spared Katarina. Underequipped and understaffed, Katarina nevertheless manages to eke out a living - Rardove's isolation keeping its enemies none too wiser. But that is all about to change. The mercurial Queen hears rumours of Katarina planning treason, and promptly dispatches her interrogator Betrand of Bridge to Rardove - to bring her to justice, or if innocent, to marry Katarina... Which leads it to be an opportunity of a lifetime for Aodh Mac Con. A son of Rardove by blood, Aodh's family were also slaughtered by the Queen. Now, after 16 years as her trusted counselor and champion, Aodh grows tired of her inconstant reassurances to his birthright. When he arrives at Rardove, Katarina allows him inside mistaking him for Betrand. Having staged a bloodless coup, Aodh installs himself as the new Master of Rardove - a title Katarina has no intention of reliquishing without a fight!
At the outset, Claiming Her is a story of two people at cross purposes forced to live together. Kris Kennedy could have taken the easy way out and made this into a staunch loyalist vs roguish rebel plot. Mind you, this is an era where politics was a minefield of opportunistic power-players, and a seemingly fickle Queen made life-or-death decisions for her subjects. While Aodh may have his priorities sorted out, Katarina is mortally afraid of being judged as a traitor by the Queen and subjected to her father's fate. I appreciated that we gota layered narrative on what drives Aodh and Katarina to the choices they wish to stand by.
Another aspect I just have to squee over is the sense of atmosphere that the author delivers. I was transported to Rardove in all its glory - with its sudden, chilling gusts of drafty wind and the way it made the embers in the fireplace pop and crackle. Or the way information and knowledge were treated like pure, precious pearls - Aodh spreading across by the candle light, an intricate, hand-painted map of the world; and Katarina's sense of wonder and unadulterated joy at seeing the world at her fingertips.
XXX
Her blades.
Other weapons followed behind, hitting the table with muted thuds: the long clumsy dagger; the short, fierce knife; the sleek, keen-edged misericorde. Her wheel-lock pistol. The newer snaphances. Five of them.
Why, he’d found everything. How… unsettling.
They stared at the deadly cache together in silence a moment. Then she cleared her throat. “Ireland is a dangerous land.”
He gave a low laugh. “Aye, Katarina. With you in it.”
XXX
Which gets us to the spine-tingling chemistry that Aodh and Katarina discover. Undoubtedly, the intense attraction between the leads is the driving force behind the story - however, I wouldn't term it as insta-lust. It was more of a meeting of two people who were meant to be, and the conflict is played out beautifully -
XXX
"You said you were mine, Katy. When I was in you, as deep as a man can be, you looked in my eyes and said you were mine."
She peered at him. "You are not the sole possessor of me, Aodh."
He forced himself to breathe slowly. "What does that mean?"
"I too possess me."
She was the most infuriating woman alive."And so you do. But you said you were mine. I thought that meant…"
She straightened a little more. "I am not responsible for your thoughts. I am, indeed yours in…in that way." ... "That does not mean I am not also my own. And I am not marrying you."
XXX
I totally love that while the lust is an important part of their relationship, the leads can acknowledge it and it doesn't come in the way of their' sticking up for oneself and having differing opinions. Having been the chateleine of Rardove her entire life, Katarina is used to having a unilateral command of her domain. The author has made her incredibly period-appropriate - she does not strap on a broadsword and run into battle; however her very important trade alliances with the neighbours and grasp of the terrain makes her invaluable and important in her own right. More so for Aodh, who again is a very period - appropriate hero. He finds Katarina's skills and knowledge attractive, and even invites her into his trusted council meetings. At the same time, he wants to remain the sole, unchallenged master of Rardove and hates it when Katarina disagrees with him in public.
XXX
What I am telling you, Katy, is your path is laid, and it is my path. Our path. And battle is coming, whether you wish it or no. So knowing that, you stand fast. And Jesus God”—his voice broke—“you do not let them lure you.”
His hands gripped her elbows so hard, his knuckles were almost white. His face was taut, his voice rasping, the eyes staring into hers so filled with emotion, it almost broke her heart.
He was afraid for her.
XXX
A must read for all HR fans!
June 17, 2016
If you look through my shelves, you'll notice I barely read historical romances but since this one was highly rated by a couple of friends I trust, I decided to make the jump and boy am I glad that I did. This was one engaging novel, featuring a spitfire heroine and equally great hero. The heroine has been holding a castle in Ireland in the name of the Queen of England. It is important to her to be loyal to the Queen especially since disloyalty got her father killed. The hero on the other hand is a swash-buckler, who wants to claim the castle since it belongs to his ancestors. The heroine mistaking him for someone else opens her doors and finds herself captured yet pulled towards the hero. All in all a fun book with good secondary characters.
May 15, 2018
4.5/5. The start of this book was explosive, the chemistry between the leads off the page!
For seven years, Katarina has been the keeper and defender of Rardove, an isolated Irish castle beyond the Pale and yet still under the sphere of the mighty Queen Elizabeth. Katarina was the only child of the English Baron of Rardove and his Irish bride. Their love and loyalty to one another above that of his love for his Queen lead to her father's execution as a traitor and her mother's death soon after of a broken heart. Katarina was taken in by the Queen after their death and she now lives to serve her Regent loyally, curbing all of her natural impulses of passion, because she is all too aware of the danger of unleashing such nature after her parents' fates.
However, despite Katarina's examplary behaviour these past years as Her Majesty's loyal subject, Rardove cannot escape its ongoing association with treason through unsubstantiated rumours. And so she finds herself opening the gates of Rardove to welcome in the Queen's representative, the repulsive Bertrand, whom the Regent has awarded the title and land of Rardove as well as Katarina's hand in marriage. However, instead of the Englishman and his people entering Rardove, she inadvertently lets in Aodh Mac Con, Irish Warrior extraordinaire who lays claim to be the true heir of Rardove. Aodh has laid down his sword for the Queen from boyhood, served her well through many battles and political negotiations for the implied promise of regaining his ancient title. So when he found out that Bess has awarded his heritage to an Englishman, he decides to simply seize what he feels is rightfully his. It is a swift takeover of the castle, for the few young, albeit enthusiastic and highly devoted, soldiers under Katarina's command is no match in number or experience to his battle-seasoned men.
Katarina herself puts up a far greater and fierce resistance. Physically, she battles him with the expert use of hers and his various weapons. Emotionally, she remains determined not to give in to the dangerous passion and heated feelings this contradictory man with the compelling body art arouses in her. Politically, she refuses to give in to his tempting offer of an allegiance of mind and body because it would mean forsaking her pledge of loyalty to her Queen.
Marry Aodh Mac Con, thief of castles, warlord who made her blood boil and who did not punish her, soldier unafraid of the Queen of England, who had trekked across hostile lands and—I do not disapprove—dispensed velvety wine and said her name like a hymn?
Aodh was a good man, a disciplined man, a loyal man, but not blinded by his loyalty to the Crown to lose sight of himself and what his name represented - hope for his people, for Ireland. In Katarina, he saw a worthy match, her fiery nature to be nurtured and her flame encouraged to shine brightly, not to be extinguished or dampened like others have tried to in the past.
Who was this man, who conquered with gowns and wheat seed and maps of the world?
Aodh fought her with weapons of tenderness, with caresses, with gifts of glass prisms and the spectrum of light. Katarina fought a valiant but ultimately hopeless battle against him.
Without another word, he turned and strode out, leaving her standing, bereft against the wall, the sword at her feet. But it mattered not at all, for she’d already been disarmed.
I love Katarina initially, for who doesn't cheer for a woman who carried a veritable armoury on her person, who drew the hero's own weapon and threatened him with it and who was only defeated by him due to the unforeseeable lick of his tongue on her ear! She was resourceful and held her own in a man's world and she handled her whisky better than any stout full-blooded Irishman ever did - which the hero learnt the hard way! I did end up getting somewhat irritated by her stubbornness to give up on Bess, when the Regent gave up on her a long time ago and sold her out to the slimy Bertrand.
There were some inconsistencies in the plot and in the behaviour of Katerina, especially towards the end. In fact, the beginning was inconsistent too, because why on earth would she open her gates to Aodh and his army then divulge her castle's secrets without verifying his identity first, after successfully holding off enemies for seven years through sheer wit and ingenuity.
The prose is absolutely beautiful and a treat to read and savour. This is an author I will return to again and again.
For seven years, Katarina has been the keeper and defender of Rardove, an isolated Irish castle beyond the Pale and yet still under the sphere of the mighty Queen Elizabeth. Katarina was the only child of the English Baron of Rardove and his Irish bride. Their love and loyalty to one another above that of his love for his Queen lead to her father's execution as a traitor and her mother's death soon after of a broken heart. Katarina was taken in by the Queen after their death and she now lives to serve her Regent loyally, curbing all of her natural impulses of passion, because she is all too aware of the danger of unleashing such nature after her parents' fates.
However, despite Katarina's examplary behaviour these past years as Her Majesty's loyal subject, Rardove cannot escape its ongoing association with treason through unsubstantiated rumours. And so she finds herself opening the gates of Rardove to welcome in the Queen's representative, the repulsive Bertrand, whom the Regent has awarded the title and land of Rardove as well as Katarina's hand in marriage. However, instead of the Englishman and his people entering Rardove, she inadvertently lets in Aodh Mac Con, Irish Warrior extraordinaire who lays claim to be the true heir of Rardove. Aodh has laid down his sword for the Queen from boyhood, served her well through many battles and political negotiations for the implied promise of regaining his ancient title. So when he found out that Bess has awarded his heritage to an Englishman, he decides to simply seize what he feels is rightfully his. It is a swift takeover of the castle, for the few young, albeit enthusiastic and highly devoted, soldiers under Katarina's command is no match in number or experience to his battle-seasoned men.
Katarina herself puts up a far greater and fierce resistance. Physically, she battles him with the expert use of hers and his various weapons. Emotionally, she remains determined not to give in to the dangerous passion and heated feelings this contradictory man with the compelling body art arouses in her. Politically, she refuses to give in to his tempting offer of an allegiance of mind and body because it would mean forsaking her pledge of loyalty to her Queen.
Marry Aodh Mac Con, thief of castles, warlord who made her blood boil and who did not punish her, soldier unafraid of the Queen of England, who had trekked across hostile lands and—I do not disapprove—dispensed velvety wine and said her name like a hymn?
Aodh was a good man, a disciplined man, a loyal man, but not blinded by his loyalty to the Crown to lose sight of himself and what his name represented - hope for his people, for Ireland. In Katarina, he saw a worthy match, her fiery nature to be nurtured and her flame encouraged to shine brightly, not to be extinguished or dampened like others have tried to in the past.
Who was this man, who conquered with gowns and wheat seed and maps of the world?
Aodh fought her with weapons of tenderness, with caresses, with gifts of glass prisms and the spectrum of light. Katarina fought a valiant but ultimately hopeless battle against him.
Without another word, he turned and strode out, leaving her standing, bereft against the wall, the sword at her feet. But it mattered not at all, for she’d already been disarmed.
I love Katarina initially, for who doesn't cheer for a woman who carried a veritable armoury on her person, who drew the hero's own weapon and threatened him with it and who was only defeated by him due to the unforeseeable lick of his tongue on her ear! She was resourceful and held her own in a man's world and she handled her whisky better than any stout full-blooded Irishman ever did - which the hero learnt the hard way! I did end up getting somewhat irritated by her stubbornness to give up on Bess, when the Regent gave up on her a long time ago and sold her out to the slimy Bertrand.
There were some inconsistencies in the plot and in the behaviour of Katerina, especially towards the end. In fact, the beginning was inconsistent too, because why on earth would she open her gates to Aodh and his army then divulge her castle's secrets without verifying his identity first, after successfully holding off enemies for seven years through sheer wit and ingenuity.
The prose is absolutely beautiful and a treat to read and savour. This is an author I will return to again and again.
April 27, 2018
OMG. I have been a fan of Kris Kennedy from day one with The Conqueror. But this read?
I haven't highlighted this many parts of a book...in 4ever!!! Here is a sampling of what I loved about this read, just from the thirty-two phrases/words of my thirty-two (yes, 32!) highlights:
"Mad Irishy."
"He was all wild thing, untethered and unafraid."
"Aodh Mac Con emanated a presence like air or light. Elemental...Water. Wine. Aodh."
"Now, Katy, let me show you the truth of us," he said, and bent to her neck."
*holy swoonworthyness*
"Women were from Lucifer."
This proves how intelligent our hero is ;)
"Choose me," he said, so simply it almost broke her heart."
OMG, yes, yes, yes, Katy...choose Aodh!!!
So now that I've made clear my absolute devotion and deep, deep crush-love on our hero, can I say that our heroine totally ROCKS!!!
OMG. Katarina is kick ass!
Seriously. Hair flying, arrow shooting, innocent/not-so-innocent, guardian of the castle, KICK ASS "Clever Katarina."
I love her hard. And wait...she's a real woman...like us!
"But when he put out a hand to draw her back into his lap, instead of taking it, she dropped to her knees between his legs. He closed his eyes and said a silent prayer of thanks. He would have to ensure this woman drank whisky every day."
OMG. Kris Kennedy. You are a seductive wordsmith. Seriously. Chills all over.
Please never stop writing historicals. Please. Never. Stop.
You transport me with your words and I am happy to take the journey. Again, and again. 4everfangirl4life
I haven't highlighted this many parts of a book...in 4ever!!! Here is a sampling of what I loved about this read, just from the thirty-two phrases/words of my thirty-two (yes, 32!) highlights:
"Mad Irishy."
"He was all wild thing, untethered and unafraid."
"Aodh Mac Con emanated a presence like air or light. Elemental...Water. Wine. Aodh."
"Now, Katy, let me show you the truth of us," he said, and bent to her neck."
*holy swoonworthyness*
"Women were from Lucifer."
This proves how intelligent our hero is ;)
"Choose me," he said, so simply it almost broke her heart."
OMG, yes, yes, yes, Katy...choose Aodh!!!
So now that I've made clear my absolute devotion and deep, deep crush-love on our hero, can I say that our heroine totally ROCKS!!!
OMG. Katarina is kick ass!
Seriously. Hair flying, arrow shooting, innocent/not-so-innocent, guardian of the castle, KICK ASS "Clever Katarina."
I love her hard. And wait...she's a real woman...like us!
"But when he put out a hand to draw her back into his lap, instead of taking it, she dropped to her knees between his legs. He closed his eyes and said a silent prayer of thanks. He would have to ensure this woman drank whisky every day."
OMG. Kris Kennedy. You are a seductive wordsmith. Seriously. Chills all over.
Please never stop writing historicals. Please. Never. Stop.
You transport me with your words and I am happy to take the journey. Again, and again. 4everfangirl4life
May 6, 2012
Solid 4.5 stars here. This was excellent. Kris Kennedy has a wonderful and unique writing style. She creates wonderful characters with intelligence and charm, and a well thought out storyline. A hero that is as rough and rugged as they come, but canny and sophisticated and absolutely to die for. A heroine that is intelligent, strong but feminine, capable and resourceful. She rescues as much as she gets rescued, and its done realistically. There is no way you cannot visualize every characteristic of the cast, even the bystanders come to life. The story had grit and wonderful texture, and some of the best dialoguing I have read in a while. KK brings you into the realm of King John and all the intricate deceit and politics at a such a palatable level, you can feel evening mist in forest and the parchment holding all the damaging evidence against an insane king. This is not a heavy novel but it's not exactly a light read either. Very enjoyable story of romance, adventure and a perfect (and rather sexy) knight in shining armor. I have read only two books of Kennedy's, and she is now an auto buy for me. Definite recommend.
October 11, 2017
2.5 stars. A few words come to mind when I think of this book.. Boring, uninspiring, forgettable. The writing wasn't bad, it's just not a memorable book for me. The leads were just so dull and two-dimensional. The best word I can describe them with is safe. What do I mean by that? Well they had no depth, no emotion, zero angst. I mean he did sort of spank her, but besides that, it was almost like the author was trying too hard to please everyone with likable characters and somewhat modern actions. It just left me feeling cold and disbelieving. (spoilers ahead)
The whole book was actually very unbelievable and at times silly. Aodh storms the castle and Katarina just lets him in, yet has protected the castle for years. Then she attacks him once and all of a sudden he's obsessed with her and she with him. Then he locks her in a tower and she eventually has sex with him, lots of sex. I mean gosh, even the sex was boring! No foreplay, just cuts right to the chase. I can get past blah sex scenes if the rest of the book is good, but I ended up skimming the sex scenes and the last 30% of the book really. For some reason they swap "I love yous" and her fierce loyalty to the queen is over (which was literally the only plot line in the whole book). And don't even get me started with Katarina's female guards lol!! The ending was very predictable and lame, although by that time I was happy the author just wrapped it up neatly.
Will I read a book by this author again? Maybe. But she really has to step up the quality of her characters if she's going to write a character-driven story.
The whole book was actually very unbelievable and at times silly. Aodh storms the castle and Katarina just lets him in, yet has protected the castle for years. Then she attacks him once and all of a sudden he's obsessed with her and she with him. Then he locks her in a tower and she eventually has sex with him, lots of sex. I mean gosh, even the sex was boring! No foreplay, just cuts right to the chase. I can get past blah sex scenes if the rest of the book is good, but I ended up skimming the sex scenes and the last 30% of the book really. For some reason they swap "I love yous" and her fierce loyalty to the queen is over (which was literally the only plot line in the whole book). And don't even get me started with Katarina's female guards lol!! The ending was very predictable and lame, although by that time I was happy the author just wrapped it up neatly.
Will I read a book by this author again? Maybe. But she really has to step up the quality of her characters if she's going to write a character-driven story.
June 21, 2018
Favorite Elizabethan book ever
I read this for the 2018 RATA Challenge. I will admit that I am not a fan of the Tudor / Elizabethan time period. Maybe I don't like Queen Elizabeth machinations.?
This was my first book by Kris Kennedy. I will definitely read more!
While I admit the language and setting did not feel uniquely Irish, I loved the characters and the storyline. The hero and the heroine both had character. Their love was sweet, and their sex was hot. In general, I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys erotic historical romance. It struck a nice balance of descriptive setting, intriguing characters, and exciting plot.
I read this for the 2018 RATA Challenge. I will admit that I am not a fan of the Tudor / Elizabethan time period. Maybe I don't like Queen Elizabeth machinations.?
This was my first book by Kris Kennedy. I will definitely read more!
While I admit the language and setting did not feel uniquely Irish, I loved the characters and the storyline. The hero and the heroine both had character. Their love was sweet, and their sex was hot. In general, I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys erotic historical romance. It struck a nice balance of descriptive setting, intriguing characters, and exciting plot.
September 9, 2016
Finally!!! Found and fallen in lurve with a hero. About time. The last time I ejoyed a hero was a hundred books ago. I like my hero tough with a bit of sweet and filth.
Kris Kennedy is da BOMB. I loved everything about this book. I can't believe I'd love a Celtic romance as I did this one.
Gonna stalk her books some more now.
Kris Kennedy is da BOMB. I loved everything about this book. I can't believe I'd love a Celtic romance as I did this one.
Gonna stalk her books some more now.
May 4, 2016
So…where do I even start with CLAIMING HER. Part of me just wants to say, this book is
bloody brilliant
. Go buy it and you’ll see what I mean. That’s enough right? But as reviews go, I guess it’s not. But let me warn you, you’re going to have to put up with a lot of gushing for the next bunch of paragraphs.
Kris Kennedy, as I mentioned in a recent review, was one of only two authors whose medieval romances I would read. Remember, I’ve only become keen on medieval and Scottish highlander books since I became addicted to Outlander. Kris’s debut was fabulous. I loved it. In CLAIMING HER, Kris well and truly outdid herself. It is, to date, the best book she’s written.
Aodh Mac Con, is a to-die-for hero. I fell for him like a ton of bricks. To tell you the truth, I think I’m still falling. The guy is potent. Completely addictive. Sexy as hell. Katarina didn’t stand a chance when he rode through the open gates of Rardove. But then neither did he.
I’ll give you a quick summary of the plot if you haven’t read the blurb. The year is 1589 and Queen Elizabeth is restoring the Rardove title to an undeserving Bertrand of Bridge (hideous man). Lady Katharina, in whose hands the barony is being safeguarded, is to marry Bertrand. At least that was the queen’s plan. Aodh, however, says otherwise. The queen had promised Rardove to him, it is, after all, his birthright. So he does what a bold, rebellious Irishman would do, he goes and takes it. Katharina included.
But Aodh (I have no idea how to pronounce his name, btw) is not about pillaging and plundering. Not the lands and certainly not Katharina. He’s not going to take her by force, he wants her to bend to his will, and then persuade her to marry him. And boy is it fun to see him try to seduce our very headstrong heroine. Not that she has an easy time resisting him. She doesn’t. I told you, the guy is potent. Irresistible. Get a fan ladies, he’s scorching hot, and so are the love scenes in this book.
And not only that, they are as brilliantly written as is the entire novel. Honestly, this book is a treat to all the senses. The scenes literally jump off the pages. I could feel the harshness of the winds as they roared across the land. I could clearly visualize the great hall of Rardove Keep in my mind’s eye. There wasn’t a sentence in this book that I did not like. I absolutely savored every single word. The writing was that good. As a historical author myself, I won’t lie to you, I was envious as hell.
What hooked me and kept me reading all day (I finished this book in one day. I could not put it down.) was the romance between Aodh and Katharina. Yes there is much intrigue when it comes to Aodh rebelling against the queen he swore loyalty to, and Katharine’s staunch refusal to join him in the heresy of treason, but this is largely a book about their romance. How he manages to bend her to his will, and how he inevitably does the same because of her. Watching them fall in love is an experience. Then you get to hold your breath, heart in throat, as that love is tested. Kris loves to put her readers through this, sadist that she is. I was on tenterhooks near the end. Cursing. Terrified. I read like I was watching a suspense movie through the slits of my fingers, ready to clamp them together at the first sign of trouble. But when trouble came, my eyes were riveted to every word.
What a rollercoaster of emotions. This was definitely one of the best romances I’ve ever read. It’s the kind I will reread again and again. And I just discovered by forging Kris’s website, that it’s the first in a series. So there is more to come. Thank GOD. And you’re going to LOVE the epilogue, which was the icing on top of an already spectacular cake.
In closing, I want to say this. Even if you don’t normally read or like medieval romances, give this one a try. Right now it’s an absolute steal at $2.99.
Oh, and you’re welcome. :)
Originally posted here on Smitten by Books site.
Kris Kennedy, as I mentioned in a recent review, was one of only two authors whose medieval romances I would read. Remember, I’ve only become keen on medieval and Scottish highlander books since I became addicted to Outlander. Kris’s debut was fabulous. I loved it. In CLAIMING HER, Kris well and truly outdid herself. It is, to date, the best book she’s written.
Aodh Mac Con, is a to-die-for hero. I fell for him like a ton of bricks. To tell you the truth, I think I’m still falling. The guy is potent. Completely addictive. Sexy as hell. Katarina didn’t stand a chance when he rode through the open gates of Rardove. But then neither did he.
I’ll give you a quick summary of the plot if you haven’t read the blurb. The year is 1589 and Queen Elizabeth is restoring the Rardove title to an undeserving Bertrand of Bridge (hideous man). Lady Katharina, in whose hands the barony is being safeguarded, is to marry Bertrand. At least that was the queen’s plan. Aodh, however, says otherwise. The queen had promised Rardove to him, it is, after all, his birthright. So he does what a bold, rebellious Irishman would do, he goes and takes it. Katharina included.
But Aodh (I have no idea how to pronounce his name, btw) is not about pillaging and plundering. Not the lands and certainly not Katharina. He’s not going to take her by force, he wants her to bend to his will, and then persuade her to marry him. And boy is it fun to see him try to seduce our very headstrong heroine. Not that she has an easy time resisting him. She doesn’t. I told you, the guy is potent. Irresistible. Get a fan ladies, he’s scorching hot, and so are the love scenes in this book.
“I’m going to take you now.” She felt as if he’d strung her up on bolts of lightning. “Hard and deep.” Her wrists hung in his hands as he leaned forward and flicked is tongue across her breast. “I’m not going to stop.” He grazed her with his teeth, and her head dropped forward. “Until you’re laid out, tossing your head and crying my name.” His gaze swept up. “And then I’m going to take you harder.”
And not only that, they are as brilliantly written as is the entire novel. Honestly, this book is a treat to all the senses. The scenes literally jump off the pages. I could feel the harshness of the winds as they roared across the land. I could clearly visualize the great hall of Rardove Keep in my mind’s eye. There wasn’t a sentence in this book that I did not like. I absolutely savored every single word. The writing was that good. As a historical author myself, I won’t lie to you, I was envious as hell.
What hooked me and kept me reading all day (I finished this book in one day. I could not put it down.) was the romance between Aodh and Katharina. Yes there is much intrigue when it comes to Aodh rebelling against the queen he swore loyalty to, and Katharine’s staunch refusal to join him in the heresy of treason, but this is largely a book about their romance. How he manages to bend her to his will, and how he inevitably does the same because of her. Watching them fall in love is an experience. Then you get to hold your breath, heart in throat, as that love is tested. Kris loves to put her readers through this, sadist that she is. I was on tenterhooks near the end. Cursing. Terrified. I read like I was watching a suspense movie through the slits of my fingers, ready to clamp them together at the first sign of trouble. But when trouble came, my eyes were riveted to every word.
What a rollercoaster of emotions. This was definitely one of the best romances I’ve ever read. It’s the kind I will reread again and again. And I just discovered by forging Kris’s website, that it’s the first in a series. So there is more to come. Thank GOD. And you’re going to LOVE the epilogue, which was the icing on top of an already spectacular cake.
In closing, I want to say this. Even if you don’t normally read or like medieval romances, give this one a try. Right now it’s an absolute steal at $2.99.
Oh, and you’re welcome. :)
Originally posted here on Smitten by Books site.
December 19, 2017
4.5 - This book really pulled me in and I had a hard time putting it down. I also rarely read romances set in the early modern period and so it was a nice change for me. At the start of the novel, Lady Katarina of Rardove is holding onto a remote Irish castle on behalf of Queen Elizabeth I, even after the Queen has destroyed Katarina's family. At times Katarina seems more like a person living in denial about her own obsequious willingness to serve the Queen rather than a self-willed ruler in her own right, but then again, the historical contingencies required all to tread carefully where the Queen was concerned. The tensions between Elizabeth and her minions is one of the more interesting aspects of this book. Aodh Mac Con also struggles between serving his ruler faithfully and not succumbing to duty above his own integrity and personal goals. Thus, from the first pages, the story delves into these tensions as Aodh defects from the Queen's ranks to capture the Irish castle, and in the process, fulfill his lifelong desire to return to his family's land and control his own destiny. It is a little unclear to me still though what Aodh's initial plan was for Katarina, as there are indications he meant to send her packing back to London and also that he had his eye potentially on a political marriage. In any case, the first meeting between the two main characters subsumes any goals Aodh might have had because Katarina's goals have a way of taking over, which is above all what this book explores.
What I most loved about this book is that Katarina constantly surprises Aodh and he mostly is two steps behind her at all times. He vacillates constantly between anger, bemusement, lust, and finally adoration, whereas Katarina is more stable and self-knowing, despite the fact that Rardove is her home and it is her rule that is under siege. I think Kennedy has done a fine job of showing the capacity of female power rather than just telling us it can exist. I did have some queasy moments every time Katarina is manhandled or is thrust into ever more restrictive containment spaces. If the hero cannot bully or seduce her into submission, then imprisonment becomes his only option. But the way in which Kennedy writes these scenes, Katarina's imprisonment feels more a sign of Aodh's weakness than Katarina's, and that depiction left me feeling reassured that patriarchy in this novel is a glass house. Katarina is the figure rooted in Ireland with ties to long-standing families, and Aodh needs her to secure his own rule. There are satisfying moments too when Aodh is informed that the natives are restless at Katarina's public absence, alerting him to the fact that imprisoning their ruler is not going to be an option for long. Ultimately though, since this is a romance, imprisoning Katarina takes an emotional toll on him. Every encounter creates more ties to each other. The author does such a nice job of juggling a battle of wills that takes place in the midst of two people falling in love. The middle of the novel is complex and absolutely riveting.
I had a few minor issues though, and one of them does concern the theme of imprisonment. In a very telling and cunning discussion that Katarina has with Aodh, she lets him know that a rival suitor was rejected partly because he wanted to control her. Aodh quickly feels discomfort and has to work to shake off the distasteful similarity between his own overbearing presence in her life and the abysmal way in which Bertrand treated Katarina. I kept wanting and hoping the novel would come back to this and allow Aodh to explore more how his early actions made it impossible for a romance to take shape, but the novel moves on and romance elides the conflict. I also lost a bit of interest in the last part of the novel where Katarina and Aodh are immersed in love and sex, as it felt too much like a typical romance. I did though like the cleverness of the resolution to the conflict of how Katarina and Aodh are able to appease Elizabeth while having the life they want. I did not foresee that resolution and found it very satisfying.
Overall, I loved the examination of conflict between the two main characters. It went far beyond a typical battle of wills between the sexes because it is rooted in history and cultural constructions of gender disparity. It is also a beautiful romance and I am so happy that I finally read a Kris Kennedy novel.
What I most loved about this book is that Katarina constantly surprises Aodh and he mostly is two steps behind her at all times. He vacillates constantly between anger, bemusement, lust, and finally adoration, whereas Katarina is more stable and self-knowing, despite the fact that Rardove is her home and it is her rule that is under siege. I think Kennedy has done a fine job of showing the capacity of female power rather than just telling us it can exist. I did have some queasy moments every time Katarina is manhandled or is thrust into ever more restrictive containment spaces. If the hero cannot bully or seduce her into submission, then imprisonment becomes his only option. But the way in which Kennedy writes these scenes, Katarina's imprisonment feels more a sign of Aodh's weakness than Katarina's, and that depiction left me feeling reassured that patriarchy in this novel is a glass house. Katarina is the figure rooted in Ireland with ties to long-standing families, and Aodh needs her to secure his own rule. There are satisfying moments too when Aodh is informed that the natives are restless at Katarina's public absence, alerting him to the fact that imprisoning their ruler is not going to be an option for long. Ultimately though, since this is a romance, imprisoning Katarina takes an emotional toll on him. Every encounter creates more ties to each other. The author does such a nice job of juggling a battle of wills that takes place in the midst of two people falling in love. The middle of the novel is complex and absolutely riveting.
I had a few minor issues though, and one of them does concern the theme of imprisonment. In a very telling and cunning discussion that Katarina has with Aodh, she lets him know that a rival suitor was rejected partly because he wanted to control her. Aodh quickly feels discomfort and has to work to shake off the distasteful similarity between his own overbearing presence in her life and the abysmal way in which Bertrand treated Katarina. I kept wanting and hoping the novel would come back to this and allow Aodh to explore more how his early actions made it impossible for a romance to take shape, but the novel moves on and romance elides the conflict. I also lost a bit of interest in the last part of the novel where Katarina and Aodh are immersed in love and sex, as it felt too much like a typical romance. I did though like the cleverness of the resolution to the conflict of how Katarina and Aodh are able to appease Elizabeth while having the life they want. I did not foresee that resolution and found it very satisfying.
Overall, I loved the examination of conflict between the two main characters. It went far beyond a typical battle of wills between the sexes because it is rooted in history and cultural constructions of gender disparity. It is also a beautiful romance and I am so happy that I finally read a Kris Kennedy novel.
May 6, 2016
Claiming Her by Kris Kennedy is an exciting Medieval Historical Romance. Fast paced tale from beginning to end! A tatooed Rebel and an half-English, half-Irish Lady, match wits and passion. This is a story of true passion, love of a country, coming home, finding love and so much more. From an Irish rebellion against England, treason, betrayal, rebels, redemption, healing and most of all, finding the love of a lifetime, to treachery and did I mention passion.
The H/H are fantastic, very engaging, strong-willed, determined and awe-inspiring. A tug-of-war couple! Don't get me wrong, I wanted to slap both the H/H at times, for their complete and utter stubbornness and need to win at all cost.
The secondary characters, well, they help carry the story, but the intense passion and strong willpower between the H/H, well that was just fantastic. Well written with vivid descriptions, vivid imagery, intriguing and an epic romance.
Will their blossoming love destroy them all, and cost them everything they've ever wanted, including their blossoming love, or bring them a bit of peace in paradise and an everlasting love? An epic love story! Ms. Kennedy is a truly magnificent storyteller who brought the characters to life through the pages of "CLAIMING HER". Ms. Kennedy tied up all the characters' stories, both secondary and main characters, to the reader's satisfaction. I can't wait to read more on Re' and his story! I would highly recommend "Claiming Her", especially to fans of Ireland, England, Historical Romance, rebels, hot, steamy passion, and an epic love story. Very entertaining, enjoyable and satisfying! More, please!
Received for an honest review from the author.
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Hot/Steamy
Reviewed by: AprilR
The H/H are fantastic, very engaging, strong-willed, determined and awe-inspiring. A tug-of-war couple! Don't get me wrong, I wanted to slap both the H/H at times, for their complete and utter stubbornness and need to win at all cost.
The secondary characters, well, they help carry the story, but the intense passion and strong willpower between the H/H, well that was just fantastic. Well written with vivid descriptions, vivid imagery, intriguing and an epic romance.
Will their blossoming love destroy them all, and cost them everything they've ever wanted, including their blossoming love, or bring them a bit of peace in paradise and an everlasting love? An epic love story! Ms. Kennedy is a truly magnificent storyteller who brought the characters to life through the pages of "CLAIMING HER". Ms. Kennedy tied up all the characters' stories, both secondary and main characters, to the reader's satisfaction. I can't wait to read more on Re' and his story! I would highly recommend "Claiming Her", especially to fans of Ireland, England, Historical Romance, rebels, hot, steamy passion, and an epic love story. Very entertaining, enjoyable and satisfying! More, please!
Received for an honest review from the author.
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Hot/Steamy
Reviewed by: AprilR
July 13, 2011
Despite loathing nekkid manchest covers, picked this up on basis of good buzz and having just reviewed the relevant history fact nuggets of the time period for my boy's school assignments and wanting to hear about it in a more entertaining way. The author delivered.
Really enjoyed the writing style, the heroine's refusal to be intimidated or acquiesce to instructions delivered by patronizing and/or protective men if she didn't agree with them, her total disregard for all things fashionable, and especially her memorable manner of speech (which reminded me a little of the heroine of 'The Spymaster's Lady', a story which I also loved.)
My quibble (apart from intensely wishing for different cover art) was Gog. Given how he and Eva had lived as a unit for so long, "Sheath and blade" I think was the term, there were three points where I had trouble understanding how abruptly he seemed to abandon a lifelong point of view. Still, this didn't detract from overall enjoyment and am looking forward to Ry's story.
Really enjoyed the writing style, the heroine's refusal to be intimidated or acquiesce to instructions delivered by patronizing and/or protective men if she didn't agree with them, her total disregard for all things fashionable, and especially her memorable manner of speech (which reminded me a little of the heroine of 'The Spymaster's Lady', a story which I also loved.)
My quibble (apart from intensely wishing for different cover art) was Gog. Given how he and Eva had lived as a unit for so long, "Sheath and blade" I think was the term, there were three points where I had trouble understanding how abruptly he seemed to abandon a lifelong point of view. Still, this didn't detract from overall enjoyment and am looking forward to Ry's story.
July 8, 2012
Defiant is going straight onto my keeper shelf. It's that good. I can't say enough wonderful things about it. The dialogue is fantastic, the characters are well-developed, and the pace just doesn't let up. I whipped through the book in a day, and know that I'll probably read it again in a couple of weeks. As far as I'm concerned, Kris Kennedy is medieval romance these days.
Okay, enough with the gushing accolades--the heroine is what makes the book. She reminds me very much of Annique, the heroine of The Spymaster's Lady by Joanna Bourne. Like Annique, Eva has survived by her wits and the hero is the first man she's ever met who's a match for her. Their constant sparring makes for great dialogue--with sexual tension running just beneath the surface of every exchange.
I bought this book in paperback and ebook, because I liked it that much. I'm really looking forward to Kennedy's upcoming books, and I hope she writes Ry's story sometime in the future.
Okay, enough with the gushing accolades--the heroine is what makes the book. She reminds me very much of Annique, the heroine of The Spymaster's Lady by Joanna Bourne. Like Annique, Eva has survived by her wits and the hero is the first man she's ever met who's a match for her. Their constant sparring makes for great dialogue--with sexual tension running just beneath the surface of every exchange.
I bought this book in paperback and ebook, because I liked it that much. I'm really looking forward to Kennedy's upcoming books, and I hope she writes Ry's story sometime in the future.
May 26, 2016
Overall: MEH
After I finished it, I didn't know how to rate it. I kept thinking, "Did I like this?" And after a few days I realized that if I didn't know if I liked it.... that probably meant I didn't like it.
So, the preview on Amazon sucked me in. I really liked how it started and how the H/h met.
But it went downhill from there for me. Here's why:
* Disliked how the main dude (what's his name?) basically tried to fuck the lady into submission.
* His extensive tattoos ARE NEVER EXPLAINED
* He was butthurt that she wouldn't bone him
* He couldn't fathom (????) why she wouldn't COMMIT TREASON -_-
* Suddenly they love each other a lot
* The pull off a sneaky thing with the Queen and I'm like *eye roll*
After I finished it, I didn't know how to rate it. I kept thinking, "Did I like this?" And after a few days I realized that if I didn't know if I liked it.... that probably meant I didn't like it.
So, the preview on Amazon sucked me in. I really liked how it started and how the H/h met.
But it went downhill from there for me. Here's why:
* Disliked how the main dude (what's his name?) basically tried to fuck the lady into submission.
* His extensive tattoos ARE NEVER EXPLAINED
* He was butthurt that she wouldn't bone him
* He couldn't fathom (????) why she wouldn't COMMIT TREASON -_-
* Suddenly they love each other a lot
* The pull off a sneaky thing with the Queen and I'm like *eye roll*
May 23, 2011
Kris Kennedy has written another exceptional Medieval romance. Defiant has the same strengths that made Kennedy’s first two books stellar examples of the sub-genre: a richly storied, historically accurate background; compellingly developed characters, primary and secondary; great chemistry between the hero and heroine; and superb prose. While I found Defiant less emotionally engaging than The Irish Warrior, which is tied with Teresa Medeiros’s Charming the Prince (a very different book) as my favorite Medieval romance ever, jamie and Eva’s story is still a keeper and a book I highly recommend.
February 22, 2013
Loved it! Totally fell for Eva and Jamie's story. Their attraction is sizzeling and the action is fast paced.
Some readers didn't like the language, but it was not my case.
And the French is almost faultless (the only typo I saw is "Jésu" : we pronounce it "Jésu", but we write it "Jésus" - maybe it's the old French spelling? I'm not sure).
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves feisty heroines and medieval romance.
Some readers didn't like the language, but it was not my case.
And the French is almost faultless (the only typo I saw is "Jésu" : we pronounce it "Jésu", but we write it "Jésus" - maybe it's the old French spelling? I'm not sure).
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves feisty heroines and medieval romance.
June 2, 2016
England May 1215
Jamie is hoping to catch his quarry, a priest, Eva is hoping to do the same, both for different reasons or are they.
This is a magnificent story in the time of King John, the rebellion and Magna Carta. We follow Jamie and Eva on a rollercoaster of intrigue, betrayal and trust, where no one is who we think they are, I was hooked until the very last page and it is one I will keep and read over again.
Jamie is hoping to catch his quarry, a priest, Eva is hoping to do the same, both for different reasons or are they.
This is a magnificent story in the time of King John, the rebellion and Magna Carta. We follow Jamie and Eva on a rollercoaster of intrigue, betrayal and trust, where no one is who we think they are, I was hooked until the very last page and it is one I will keep and read over again.
June 3, 2018
Dnf @ 75%
Not what I'm looking for in an historical romance. The historical setting was flat and the romance wasn't great.
Not what I'm looking for in an historical romance. The historical setting was flat and the romance wasn't great.
May 12, 2016
Wow! Blew me away! Another brilliant, clever, amazing, hot sizzling, beautiful read by best selling author, Kris Kennedy! She really has a rare gift indeed with her golden pen and outdid herself in this totally brilliant and powerful-story. 'Claiming Her" in her new Renegades & Outlaws series, is when Ireland was under English rule. I love when true history is weaved into a fabulous fictional romance. Plus nothing better then a true historical facts weaved into a fictional Irish historical romance with famous iconic figures in it. In this case Elizabeth Tudor, Queen Elizabeth I , daughter of Queen Anne Boleyn and King Henry VIII! Love!Love! Loved!
1589 Norhtern Ireland, Beyond the Pale ( when part of Ireland was under English rule)
Queen Elizabeth I, the Virgin Queen or Queen Bess to others expects everyone to yield to her. Even if she doesn't keep her word in her favors and rewards she previously promised. As a lad of fourteen, Aodh Mac Con bowed down to the English Queen, laid down his bloody sword, promised to be true to England. This was in agreement as long as he eventually would be given back his ancestral home Rardove castle and his lands in Ireland. Aodh Mac Con is one of the Queen's loyal Captains, courtier, councilor and favorite is furious and will no longer be her puppet and plaything! Especially when he finds out she has betrayed him and given Rardove Castle, his Irish ancestral lands to another! Queen Bess has rewarded Rardove to nobleman interrogator, Bertrand of Bridge! After interrogation can prove her chatelaine Katarina is not rebel as the rumors the Queen is hearing claim. Bertrand will then be allowed to wed her chatelaine.
Aodh is extremely clever in his next steps have the impregnable gates opened to him and his men. Once Katarina sees his Irish mullet, a partly shaved head on the sides with long hair and half his body is painted ( tattoos) Katarina sees her mistake! This was not uncommon among Medieval Irish and Celtic tribes. After his perfidy is recognized Aodh Mac Con ( The Hound) then finds himself with a knife to his throat, by the Lady of the keep with his own blade! This beautiful, calm, serene woman becomes a bezerker wildcat, not the hysterical or frightened Queens lady he was expecting. Yet he finds she light a fire in him that had been extinguished for years maybe never even lit ! He want her for more then his ancestral keep she seems to make him feel alive like never before! He definitely wants her!
Katarina de Macie of Rardove who feels duped and is furious at herself! This for being duped so easily by this handsome rebel Irishman, with the brightest blue eye and a painted body! The attraction is immediate, but she refuses to be a traitor like her parents who are dead for only loving each other. Her father had also been the Queens man, was to settle things in Ireland, instead he fell in love with an Irish Princess! Married Katarina's mother without the Queens permission and the looses his head for it! Her mother then dies of a broken heart and eight year old heiress, Katarina, is left abandoned, alone and an orphan. This child reminds Elizabeth of herself, being ignored and abandoned so she offers the keep of castle Rardove in Ireland as chatelaine. Now the one thing Katerina fears most - repeating her parents mistakes and being called a traitor! Rumors reached the Queens ears are calling her exactly that.....a traitor!
Aodh decides wooing and gifts is the way to the ladies heart, but locked in a tower? Will she turn traitor like her father? Is Katherina, her father's daughter after-all? Can she keep this handsome Irish rebel at arms length with all his wooing and gifts? Plus seeing all he has accomplished in Ireland after a short amount of time which she hasn't been able to do in years! It is beyond impressive, it is remarkable and unbelievable! Katerina is confused and knows the Queen's Army will be arriving at her gates soon! She has decisions to make and quickly before it is too late!
Loved the motley crew or you might call secondary characters of the story. Englishman Ré, Scottish Cormac, plus Bran plus Katrina's friend Susanna and wee Dickon. I really enjoyed all the characters for different reasons, but mostly their loyalty, honor, caring and protectiveness of their fierce leader and lady.
Will Katarina choose love or honor? Will Aodh be punished by the Queen with a traitors death? Will Katarina betray the Irish rebel and turn Aodh in to the Queen? The lady who took her in and gave her a castle in Ireland. Will Aodh ever truly get a chance to truly claim her - his warrior woman? Will she ignite a fire or extinguish it forever? You will have to read this sizzling passionate romantic tale lined with true historical history to find out!
I absolutely and unequivocally loved this story about Irish history and when Ireland was under England's rule ( beyond the pale). Brilliant and accurate research in this this spectacular. riveting captivating adventure. I simply could not put this book down! H/H were both heartwarming and endearing, yet had similar heartaches of the past that you can't help, but root for them! Filled with riveting adventure, mystery, suspense, betrayal, emotional, historical facts, passion that sizzles off the page and of course love. Ms. Kennedy did an outstanding job creating this brilliant tale - lined with true history in sixteenth century Ireland. This is one of those rare stories that stays with you long after you have read it. I loved this sexy, Irish rebel, Aodh Mac Con he is true alph male and definitely swoon and drool worthy! I highly recommend "Claiming Her" by Kris Kennedy, as I have been reading her books since her debut and her books just get better! That says a lot considering I have loved each book she has released! I must say Claiming Her is a total breathtaking masterpiece in my opinion and my favorite to date! It's totally brilliant!
Renegades & Outlaws Series by Kris Kennedy
0.5)The Kings Outlaw - Captured by a Celtic Warrior anthology
1) Claiming Her
1589 Norhtern Ireland, Beyond the Pale ( when part of Ireland was under English rule)
Queen Elizabeth I, the Virgin Queen or Queen Bess to others expects everyone to yield to her. Even if she doesn't keep her word in her favors and rewards she previously promised. As a lad of fourteen, Aodh Mac Con bowed down to the English Queen, laid down his bloody sword, promised to be true to England. This was in agreement as long as he eventually would be given back his ancestral home Rardove castle and his lands in Ireland. Aodh Mac Con is one of the Queen's loyal Captains, courtier, councilor and favorite is furious and will no longer be her puppet and plaything! Especially when he finds out she has betrayed him and given Rardove Castle, his Irish ancestral lands to another! Queen Bess has rewarded Rardove to nobleman interrogator, Bertrand of Bridge! After interrogation can prove her chatelaine Katarina is not rebel as the rumors the Queen is hearing claim. Bertrand will then be allowed to wed her chatelaine.
Aodh is extremely clever in his next steps have the impregnable gates opened to him and his men. Once Katarina sees his Irish mullet, a partly shaved head on the sides with long hair and half his body is painted ( tattoos) Katarina sees her mistake! This was not uncommon among Medieval Irish and Celtic tribes. After his perfidy is recognized Aodh Mac Con ( The Hound) then finds himself with a knife to his throat, by the Lady of the keep with his own blade! This beautiful, calm, serene woman becomes a bezerker wildcat, not the hysterical or frightened Queens lady he was expecting. Yet he finds she light a fire in him that had been extinguished for years maybe never even lit ! He want her for more then his ancestral keep she seems to make him feel alive like never before! He definitely wants her!
Katarina de Macie of Rardove who feels duped and is furious at herself! This for being duped so easily by this handsome rebel Irishman, with the brightest blue eye and a painted body! The attraction is immediate, but she refuses to be a traitor like her parents who are dead for only loving each other. Her father had also been the Queens man, was to settle things in Ireland, instead he fell in love with an Irish Princess! Married Katarina's mother without the Queens permission and the looses his head for it! Her mother then dies of a broken heart and eight year old heiress, Katarina, is left abandoned, alone and an orphan. This child reminds Elizabeth of herself, being ignored and abandoned so she offers the keep of castle Rardove in Ireland as chatelaine. Now the one thing Katerina fears most - repeating her parents mistakes and being called a traitor! Rumors reached the Queens ears are calling her exactly that.....a traitor!
Aodh decides wooing and gifts is the way to the ladies heart, but locked in a tower? Will she turn traitor like her father? Is Katherina, her father's daughter after-all? Can she keep this handsome Irish rebel at arms length with all his wooing and gifts? Plus seeing all he has accomplished in Ireland after a short amount of time which she hasn't been able to do in years! It is beyond impressive, it is remarkable and unbelievable! Katerina is confused and knows the Queen's Army will be arriving at her gates soon! She has decisions to make and quickly before it is too late!
Loved the motley crew or you might call secondary characters of the story. Englishman Ré, Scottish Cormac, plus Bran plus Katrina's friend Susanna and wee Dickon. I really enjoyed all the characters for different reasons, but mostly their loyalty, honor, caring and protectiveness of their fierce leader and lady.
Will Katarina choose love or honor? Will Aodh be punished by the Queen with a traitors death? Will Katarina betray the Irish rebel and turn Aodh in to the Queen? The lady who took her in and gave her a castle in Ireland. Will Aodh ever truly get a chance to truly claim her - his warrior woman? Will she ignite a fire or extinguish it forever? You will have to read this sizzling passionate romantic tale lined with true historical history to find out!
I absolutely and unequivocally loved this story about Irish history and when Ireland was under England's rule ( beyond the pale). Brilliant and accurate research in this this spectacular. riveting captivating adventure. I simply could not put this book down! H/H were both heartwarming and endearing, yet had similar heartaches of the past that you can't help, but root for them! Filled with riveting adventure, mystery, suspense, betrayal, emotional, historical facts, passion that sizzles off the page and of course love. Ms. Kennedy did an outstanding job creating this brilliant tale - lined with true history in sixteenth century Ireland. This is one of those rare stories that stays with you long after you have read it. I loved this sexy, Irish rebel, Aodh Mac Con he is true alph male and definitely swoon and drool worthy! I highly recommend "Claiming Her" by Kris Kennedy, as I have been reading her books since her debut and her books just get better! That says a lot considering I have loved each book she has released! I must say Claiming Her is a total breathtaking masterpiece in my opinion and my favorite to date! It's totally brilliant!
Renegades & Outlaws Series by Kris Kennedy
0.5)The Kings Outlaw - Captured by a Celtic Warrior anthology
1) Claiming Her
May 8, 2016
Aodh Mac Con believes he is Rardove’s rightful heir. For years, he has served Queen Elizabeth as her counselor, assuming she would grant him his ancestral homeland one day. Angered over the queen choosing another over him, Aodh sends the man on a wild goose chase while he lays seige to Rardove in his absence. Katarina not only captivates Aodh but challenges him. He sets out to woo the stubborn woman into marrying him, however, Katarina proves obstinate in denying them their shared attraction. Aodh chips away at her resistance, slowly persuading Katarina to his side as they prepare for Queen Elizabeth’s army. He realizes what a beneficial asset she is to him and Rardove by helping to gather allies for the upcoming confrontation with the queen.
Katarina of Rardove is the sole daughter of an English baron and an Irish princess. She has been defending and ruling Rardove for five years since her older, half brother’s death. Katarina awaits the man Queen Elizabeth sent to test her loyalty and expects to marry him once she proves loyal. She mistakes the contingent of armed men heading to the castle as belonging to her new betrothed. Aodh tempts Katarina to give in to recklessness and her inner base nature. Fearful of the queen’s wrath, she continually refuses to wed or relent to the charismatic Irish warlord’s temptations. Unfairly branded a traitor, Katarina sides with Aodh and helps him negotiate alliances with the other Irish marshlords against the English queen’s advancing army.
Aodh’s tattooed skin reminds me somewhat of the Pictish people. For all his faults, I could not help but be charmed into liking Aodh Mac Con. I easily empathize with what drove Aodh to his many choices, the chief one among them is dedicating himself to becoming the English Queen’s lackey when the English were the ones that did him wrong. I especially like how he is not afraid to tweak or risk Queen Elizabeth’s royal ire by going after what Aodh views as his. I love how despite his wants and desires, Aodh still honors his father and grandfather’s dying wish of reclaiming Rardove. Aodh won me when he approves of Katarina’s unladylike talents with weapons and encourages her to be true to her nature.
I love that Katarina is not the ordinary-type noblewoman. She manages to exceed everyone’s expectation of her, including her own queen’s, with her ingenuity of holding Rardove against war-like tribes with only a handful of men. Katarina proves continuously that she thinks first of her men and servants before herself. I like that about her person. She also knows her Irish neighbors and customs, enough to counsel Aodh on after the rascal manages to win her trust and allegiance. I respect Katarina’s loyalty to her queen but her steadfast dedication to a queen that had wronged her on so many occasions annoyed me. I do understand her hesitation on accepting Aodh, how her fear of Queen Elizabeth’s renowned displeasure determines her conduct and behavior.
CLAIMING HER is the first book in Kris Kennedy’s new series RENEGADES AND OUTLAWS. I love this author’s stories. Kris Kennedy is my go-to author whenever I crave a book taking place in medieval Ireland. I wish more authors would consider writing in this mystical time period.
CLAIMING HER is a spellbinding story that delves into the wilds and murkiness of Irish history. Kris Kennedy waves such magic in her historicals, reminding me anew what it is about her writing that draws me. I cannot wait for more adventures in this series starting with Re.
REVIEW COURTESY OF ROMANCE JUNKIES
Katarina of Rardove is the sole daughter of an English baron and an Irish princess. She has been defending and ruling Rardove for five years since her older, half brother’s death. Katarina awaits the man Queen Elizabeth sent to test her loyalty and expects to marry him once she proves loyal. She mistakes the contingent of armed men heading to the castle as belonging to her new betrothed. Aodh tempts Katarina to give in to recklessness and her inner base nature. Fearful of the queen’s wrath, she continually refuses to wed or relent to the charismatic Irish warlord’s temptations. Unfairly branded a traitor, Katarina sides with Aodh and helps him negotiate alliances with the other Irish marshlords against the English queen’s advancing army.
Aodh’s tattooed skin reminds me somewhat of the Pictish people. For all his faults, I could not help but be charmed into liking Aodh Mac Con. I easily empathize with what drove Aodh to his many choices, the chief one among them is dedicating himself to becoming the English Queen’s lackey when the English were the ones that did him wrong. I especially like how he is not afraid to tweak or risk Queen Elizabeth’s royal ire by going after what Aodh views as his. I love how despite his wants and desires, Aodh still honors his father and grandfather’s dying wish of reclaiming Rardove. Aodh won me when he approves of Katarina’s unladylike talents with weapons and encourages her to be true to her nature.
I love that Katarina is not the ordinary-type noblewoman. She manages to exceed everyone’s expectation of her, including her own queen’s, with her ingenuity of holding Rardove against war-like tribes with only a handful of men. Katarina proves continuously that she thinks first of her men and servants before herself. I like that about her person. She also knows her Irish neighbors and customs, enough to counsel Aodh on after the rascal manages to win her trust and allegiance. I respect Katarina’s loyalty to her queen but her steadfast dedication to a queen that had wronged her on so many occasions annoyed me. I do understand her hesitation on accepting Aodh, how her fear of Queen Elizabeth’s renowned displeasure determines her conduct and behavior.
CLAIMING HER is the first book in Kris Kennedy’s new series RENEGADES AND OUTLAWS. I love this author’s stories. Kris Kennedy is my go-to author whenever I crave a book taking place in medieval Ireland. I wish more authors would consider writing in this mystical time period.
CLAIMING HER is a spellbinding story that delves into the wilds and murkiness of Irish history. Kris Kennedy waves such magic in her historicals, reminding me anew what it is about her writing that draws me. I cannot wait for more adventures in this series starting with Re.
REVIEW COURTESY OF ROMANCE JUNKIES
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