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The Brides of Skye #1
The Beast's Bride
The beauty who refuses to be wed. The beast who loves her in vain. A twist of fate that brings them together.
Rhona MacLeod is the beautiful, willful daughter of a clan-chief upon the Isle of Skye. Desperate to remain free and bow to no man, she refuses all the suitors who ask for her hand.
Taran MacKinnon is one of Clan-chief MacLeod's most trusted warriors. He carries a secret passion for his chief's middle daughter. However, Rhona has never been able to see beyond his scars and forbidding appearance that have earned him the name 'The Beast of Dunvegan'.
Frustrated by Rhona's defiance, her father makes a decision that will force his daughter to take a husband—games that will bring warriors from all over the island, and from the mainland, to compete. Rhona must wed the victor. Finally, Taran has a chance to prove himself. If he wins the games, he can possess the woman he wants—but can he win her heart?
The Beast's Bride is Book #1 in The Brides of Skye series set in 14th Century Isle of Skye, Scotland. Readers who enjoy Diana Gabaldon, Hazel Hunter, and Kathryn Le Veque will love this emotional, passionate Scottish Medieval Historical Romance.
Rhona MacLeod is the beautiful, willful daughter of a clan-chief upon the Isle of Skye. Desperate to remain free and bow to no man, she refuses all the suitors who ask for her hand.
Taran MacKinnon is one of Clan-chief MacLeod's most trusted warriors. He carries a secret passion for his chief's middle daughter. However, Rhona has never been able to see beyond his scars and forbidding appearance that have earned him the name 'The Beast of Dunvegan'.
Frustrated by Rhona's defiance, her father makes a decision that will force his daughter to take a husband—games that will bring warriors from all over the island, and from the mainland, to compete. Rhona must wed the victor. Finally, Taran has a chance to prove himself. If he wins the games, he can possess the woman he wants—but can he win her heart?
The Beast's Bride is Book #1 in The Brides of Skye series set in 14th Century Isle of Skye, Scotland. Readers who enjoy Diana Gabaldon, Hazel Hunter, and Kathryn Le Veque will love this emotional, passionate Scottish Medieval Historical Romance.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 16, 2019
1440 people are currently reading
683 people want to read
About the author
Jayne Castel
95 books398 followersMulti-award-winning author Jayne Castel writes epic Historical and Fantasy Romance. Her vibrant characters, richly researched historical settings and action-packed adventure romance transport readers to forgotten times and imaginary worlds.
Jayne is the author of a number of best-selling series. In love with all things Scottish, she writes romances set in both Dark Ages and Medieval Scotland.
When she's not writing, Jayne is reading (and re-reading) her favorite authors, cooking Italian feasts, and going on long walks with her husband. She's from New Zealand, but now lives in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Sign up to Jayne's newsletter and get a free bundle of short stories! https://www.jaynecastel.com/
Jayne loves to hear from her readers - email her at: contact@jaynecastel.com
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Follow Jayne on BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jayne...
Jayne is the author of a number of best-selling series. In love with all things Scottish, she writes romances set in both Dark Ages and Medieval Scotland.
When she's not writing, Jayne is reading (and re-reading) her favorite authors, cooking Italian feasts, and going on long walks with her husband. She's from New Zealand, but now lives in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Sign up to Jayne's newsletter and get a free bundle of short stories! https://www.jaynecastel.com/
Jayne loves to hear from her readers - email her at: contact@jaynecastel.com
Connect with Jayne on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaynecastel...
Connect with Jayne on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JayneCastelR...
Follow Jayne on Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/jaynecastel/...
Follow Jayne on BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jayne...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
November 4, 2019
2.5 stars.
This book would be more aptly titled: The Life of a Scottish Lass in the 1300s Is Vastly Unfair and Will Enrage You". Too long? Ah well. But it does illustrate how I felt during the reading of this story. The writing style of this author was engaging enough, but I can't say I liked this story much. The h wasn't very likable, but at least she was willing to admit her faults and apologize. The H was a good man, but I do with the author let us see more of his attempts to woo his wife. All in all, I will give this series another try. Hopefully, the h of next one will be more likable.
Safety
This book would be more aptly titled: The Life of a Scottish Lass in the 1300s Is Vastly Unfair and Will Enrage You". Too long? Ah well. But it does illustrate how I felt during the reading of this story. The writing style of this author was engaging enough, but I can't say I liked this story much. The h wasn't very likable, but at least she was willing to admit her faults and apologize. The H was a good man, but I do with the author let us see more of his attempts to woo his wife. All in all, I will give this series another try. Hopefully, the h of next one will be more likable.
Safety
March 4, 2020
Wow.. what a bonny story. Loved the kindhearted hero more than anything. The story and all the characters had different shades and hidden depth. I liked the three sisters bond.
Recommended.
Recommended.
July 7, 2020
Nice!
The H is better than I expected, the h is not so bad - you get her after a while but still the book is not greatly rememberable.
The H is better than I expected, the h is not so bad - you get her after a while but still the book is not greatly rememberable.
July 28, 2019
Oh how I love a good beauty and the beast tale! 🥰👸👹
March 14, 2023
This was a new-to-me author, and I loved it! Taran was a wonderful hero, and I liked Rhona's spunk. I am looking forward to the rest of the trilogy.
February 14, 2021
Lady Rhona MacLeod has no desire to marry. Ever. She's seen what it has done to her elder sister and doesn't want to face the same fate. She's seen how cruel men can be and longs for her freedom instead. Her father, Chief of Clan MacLeod is fed up with his daughter's stubborn willfulness and when she humiliates him by publicly refusing the suit of one of his allies he is infuriated. In his rage, the Chief decides to hold games for Rhona's hand. Men will come from all over the Isle of Skye and Mainland Scotland to compete and Rhona will be forced to wed the winner.
Heavily scarred and fiercely loyal, Taran MacKinnon carries several nicknames in his role as a member of Chief MacLeod's personal guard, not the worst of which is 'The Beast of Dunvegan.' Rhona has trained secretly with him and seems him as something of a friend, but never as a man, leaving Taran's longtime feelings for her a well-guarded secret.
Though he is loathe to compete because he knows this is not what Rhona wants, these games could be Taran's one chance to prove himself and to protect Rhona, even if it does mean she may never return his feelings. He knows she'll likely hate him for this but at least he'll know she won't be mistreated, even if she'll only see him as an ugly brute and he'll be tortured by his unrequited feelings for her.
This book had me tense and frustrated from the get go. Poor Taran tugged at my heartstrings - I'm a sucker for the strong and silent type - and I wanted to know his story. Rhona's callous father just wants to get rid of her and doesn't really care what's best for her so he infuriated me. Rhona is quick to believe the worst of Taran when he enters the competition and cannot see past his ruined face at first. She feels betrayed and is nothing but angry with Taran without giving him a chance and her immediate hatefulness started to annoy me rapidly. Fortunately Rhona did grow on me the more she got to know Taran and it made the progression of their relationship believable and I appreciated her growth as a character.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Heavily scarred and fiercely loyal, Taran MacKinnon carries several nicknames in his role as a member of Chief MacLeod's personal guard, not the worst of which is 'The Beast of Dunvegan.' Rhona has trained secretly with him and seems him as something of a friend, but never as a man, leaving Taran's longtime feelings for her a well-guarded secret.
Though he is loathe to compete because he knows this is not what Rhona wants, these games could be Taran's one chance to prove himself and to protect Rhona, even if it does mean she may never return his feelings. He knows she'll likely hate him for this but at least he'll know she won't be mistreated, even if she'll only see him as an ugly brute and he'll be tortured by his unrequited feelings for her.
This book had me tense and frustrated from the get go. Poor Taran tugged at my heartstrings - I'm a sucker for the strong and silent type - and I wanted to know his story. Rhona's callous father just wants to get rid of her and doesn't really care what's best for her so he infuriated me. Rhona is quick to believe the worst of Taran when he enters the competition and cannot see past his ruined face at first. She feels betrayed and is nothing but angry with Taran without giving him a chance and her immediate hatefulness started to annoy me rapidly. Fortunately Rhona did grow on me the more she got to know Taran and it made the progression of their relationship believable and I appreciated her growth as a character.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
July 15, 2019
I really like the hero. Heroine was prideful to a dangerous and silly point. Book was extremely unrealistic in some aspects.
Was the hero basically a servant? That wasn't clear to me, nor were their roles and status in the father's household after they married. Was she no longer a lady?
I will read the next book.
Was the hero basically a servant? That wasn't clear to me, nor were their roles and status in the father's household after they married. Was she no longer a lady?
I will read the next book.
May 15, 2020
Great first in the Brides of Skye trilogy!
Set in 1346, this is the story of Rhona MacLeod, the headstrong daughter of a clan chief on the Isle of Skye. She has no wish to wed and so refuses all the suitors her father offers her. Finally fed up, her father decides to hold two days of games, the winner to get Rhona’s hand.
Taran MacKinnon is known to all as “the Beast of Dunvegan” because of his facial scars but he is the best warrior of the MacLeod. Taran is secretly in love with Rhona and never thinks to have her until the games. When he wins, he knows he faces an uphill battle for her love as she did not want to marry him or anyone.
The story is well-written and is guaranteed to hold your interest. Historical details add to its authenticity, and there are some exciting scenes. I did find the wedding night’s “we must consummate” or face your father’s wrath a bit unbelievable. (All Taran needed was a knife to cut his finger and voila! He’d have blood on the sheet.) But no matter. He is a hero you can love and Rhona comes to do just that. It’s a good story and a great start to the trilogy.
Set in 1346, this is the story of Rhona MacLeod, the headstrong daughter of a clan chief on the Isle of Skye. She has no wish to wed and so refuses all the suitors her father offers her. Finally fed up, her father decides to hold two days of games, the winner to get Rhona’s hand.
Taran MacKinnon is known to all as “the Beast of Dunvegan” because of his facial scars but he is the best warrior of the MacLeod. Taran is secretly in love with Rhona and never thinks to have her until the games. When he wins, he knows he faces an uphill battle for her love as she did not want to marry him or anyone.
The story is well-written and is guaranteed to hold your interest. Historical details add to its authenticity, and there are some exciting scenes. I did find the wedding night’s “we must consummate” or face your father’s wrath a bit unbelievable. (All Taran needed was a knife to cut his finger and voila! He’d have blood on the sheet.) But no matter. He is a hero you can love and Rhona comes to do just that. It’s a good story and a great start to the trilogy.
June 2, 2019
There didn't seem to be much chemistry and Rhona wasn't an easy character to like. Taran was better however was a little flat. Unfortunately there was nothing new in this story.
April 14, 2019
"Beauty in not in the face; beauty is a light in the heart." Prepare to be transported to the Isle of Skye 1346 and only come back to reality as you turn the last page! Mesmerized, captured and fully engaged in the brilliant writing of Jayne Castel that only made me long for more. Her characters came alive with so many feelings and hidden depths that I could feel their anguish and longings.
This is the tale of the realities of women and men during this time in history, when the women had little to no choices and the men ruled with an iron fist. Lady Rhona McLeod was the middle daughter of Clan Chief of the McLeod's and her father was forcing her to marry since she would not choose a man of her own. He deemed there would be a contest of strength between warriors and the victor could claim her as his wife.
Taran MacKinnon was one of he father's trusted warriors who was known as the "Beast of Drunvegan" due to the horrible scarring on his face of which none knew the cause. He secretly loved Rhona but knew she would never consider him due to his fierce appearance.
But fate has a way of stepping in and when the chance comes up to fight for her, he decides to compete for her hand.
There were so many emotions in this story that pulled at my heart and made me love the characters who went through so much. This story is so powerful that when I started, I literally did not get up until I finished. I highly recommend this book and cannot wait until the next in this series! This deserves more than 5 stars!
This is the tale of the realities of women and men during this time in history, when the women had little to no choices and the men ruled with an iron fist. Lady Rhona McLeod was the middle daughter of Clan Chief of the McLeod's and her father was forcing her to marry since she would not choose a man of her own. He deemed there would be a contest of strength between warriors and the victor could claim her as his wife.
Taran MacKinnon was one of he father's trusted warriors who was known as the "Beast of Drunvegan" due to the horrible scarring on his face of which none knew the cause. He secretly loved Rhona but knew she would never consider him due to his fierce appearance.
But fate has a way of stepping in and when the chance comes up to fight for her, he decides to compete for her hand.
There were so many emotions in this story that pulled at my heart and made me love the characters who went through so much. This story is so powerful that when I started, I literally did not get up until I finished. I highly recommend this book and cannot wait until the next in this series! This deserves more than 5 stars!
August 29, 2020
I did finish it. I can't tell I read every word (I skipped some repetitions, cliché, etc.) but a part of me forced me to go on.
The book wasn't totally badly written, I tried worse one. But it was one of a romance historical genre, where a hero could move with frightening swiftness, that the heroine never knew such a big man could move so fast. Although she knew him for years. And, of course, every few pages he let out a soft growl, etc. A typical example of the sentence: Rhona watched her husband dress, admiring the way the muscles in his back and shoulders rippled as he reached for his léine. I am sure you got the gist.
I was also a bit irritated by a mix of modern language with older words, like 'aye', 'ye'. I am far from being an expert, but if an author tries to use more adequate language in historical fiction she should do it better or don't do it at all.
Summarizing, I don't recommend to buy it, but if you got it for free (like me) and you are in a mood for a stereotyped Highlander/Scottish/medieval hero and a very typical, simple romance - you can give it a try. But don't tell I didn't warn you ;-)
PS As I wrote on my profile description, one star for finished book means in my case: "There was something that made me finish it but I can't tell: 'it was ok'."
The book wasn't totally badly written, I tried worse one. But it was one of a romance historical genre, where a hero could move with frightening swiftness, that the heroine never knew such a big man could move so fast. Although she knew him for years. And, of course, every few pages he let out a soft growl, etc. A typical example of the sentence: Rhona watched her husband dress, admiring the way the muscles in his back and shoulders rippled as he reached for his léine. I am sure you got the gist.
I was also a bit irritated by a mix of modern language with older words, like 'aye', 'ye'. I am far from being an expert, but if an author tries to use more adequate language in historical fiction she should do it better or don't do it at all.
Summarizing, I don't recommend to buy it, but if you got it for free (like me) and you are in a mood for a stereotyped Highlander/Scottish/medieval hero and a very typical, simple romance - you can give it a try. But don't tell I didn't warn you ;-)
PS As I wrote on my profile description, one star for finished book means in my case: "There was something that made me finish it but I can't tell: 'it was ok'."
February 7, 2021
This book gave me two of my favorite tropes in one: a scarred hero and a hero beneath the heroine in station.
Here, Taran is a soldier in the service of Rhona's father. He's been in love with her for years, but told himself he was content to adore her from afar. But when she rejects one prospective groom too many, her father sets up a competition for her hand. Taran still might not have presumed to inflict his ugly face upon her, but he knew some of the other competitors sought to crush her spirit. She might never love him, but at least he could ensure no harm would come to her if she was his wife.
Of course, he wins. And it takes a while for Rhona to come around. But at least she wasn't cruel to him while she worked through her feelings. She is headstrong for her time, and wants to choose her own husband. But women have absolutely no agency in this world, and her father (or anyone, really) doesn't care what she wants. Thankfully, Taran is a thousand percent more evolved than any other guy in the book and he values her thoughts and feelings.
There are some frustrating parts, as there are in any books where women are made subservient. But the romance is solid. The hero is great. And the HEA is satisfying.
I will read from this author again.
Here, Taran is a soldier in the service of Rhona's father. He's been in love with her for years, but told himself he was content to adore her from afar. But when she rejects one prospective groom too many, her father sets up a competition for her hand. Taran still might not have presumed to inflict his ugly face upon her, but he knew some of the other competitors sought to crush her spirit. She might never love him, but at least he could ensure no harm would come to her if she was his wife.
Of course, he wins. And it takes a while for Rhona to come around. But at least she wasn't cruel to him while she worked through her feelings. She is headstrong for her time, and wants to choose her own husband. But women have absolutely no agency in this world, and her father (or anyone, really) doesn't care what she wants. Thankfully, Taran is a thousand percent more evolved than any other guy in the book and he values her thoughts and feelings.
There are some frustrating parts, as there are in any books where women are made subservient. But the romance is solid. The hero is great. And the HEA is satisfying.
I will read from this author again.
May 20, 2022
just ok.
I liked the hero. He was scarred, strong and stoic and had loved the heroine for a while. The heroine never saw him as a man and never took notice of him as anything other than her father’s most faithful warrior.
I didn’t care for the heroine all that much. She was shallow, needlessly obnoxious and seemed to look for ways to make her life more difficult.
Safe. Nothing is mentioned of the hero’s past except to say he has been with others, although he never kissed anyone other than the heroine. I didn’t like that no details were given if he’s been celibate since knowing he loves the heroine. Heroine is a virgin. She has other suitors but spurns them all. There’s on page abuse of the heroine by her father. He hits her several times. No others or cheating after they are together. HEA but no epilogue and no babies.
I liked the hero. He was scarred, strong and stoic and had loved the heroine for a while. The heroine never saw him as a man and never took notice of him as anything other than her father’s most faithful warrior.
I didn’t care for the heroine all that much. She was shallow, needlessly obnoxious and seemed to look for ways to make her life more difficult.
Safe. Nothing is mentioned of the hero’s past except to say he has been with others, although he never kissed anyone other than the heroine. I didn’t like that no details were given if he’s been celibate since knowing he loves the heroine. Heroine is a virgin. She has other suitors but spurns them all. There’s on page abuse of the heroine by her father. He hits her several times. No others or cheating after they are together. HEA but no epilogue and no babies.
November 23, 2019
3 1/2 "Men are jerks!" Stars!
Overall I liked this, but boy oh boy did most of the men in this book make me mad! The only two out of a bunch I liked were Taran and Gordon. I actually loved Taran from the beginning and he's the person that kept me reading because Rhona worked my nerves too. I really did like it though. I'll be reading book 2 very soon. Happy reading!
Overall I liked this, but boy oh boy did most of the men in this book make me mad! The only two out of a bunch I liked were Taran and Gordon. I actually loved Taran from the beginning and he's the person that kept me reading because Rhona worked my nerves too. I really did like it though. I'll be reading book 2 very soon. Happy reading!
Want to read
August 5, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (8/3/2020)! 🎁
July 19, 2022
Not my cup of tea.
July 7, 2020
This book was kind of a mixed bag for me.
I really liked the character of Rhona, even though she was headstrong to the point of practically shooting herself in the foot (figuratively speaking) a few times. She was fierce and determined to do what she loved (fighting, learning how to defend herself, etc), even though her culture was pretty opposed to it at the time.
Taran was a good character.
I have to also say that the pacing felt a little off. Too little of the story felt like it was devoted to romance. MOAR KISSING PLZ. XD
I'm not sure if I'm going to read the rest of the books in the series, but this one was good. It isn't something that I want to add to my physical library, but it was a good way to pass a few hours.
I really liked the character of Rhona, even though she was headstrong to the point of practically shooting herself in the foot (figuratively speaking) a few times. She was fierce and determined to do what she loved (fighting, learning how to defend herself, etc), even though her culture was pretty opposed to it at the time.
Taran was a good character.
I have to also say that the pacing felt a little off. Too little of the story felt like it was devoted to romance. MOAR KISSING PLZ. XD
I'm not sure if I'm going to read the rest of the books in the series, but this one was good. It isn't something that I want to add to my physical library, but it was a good way to pass a few hours.
April 17, 2019
I really enjoyed The Beast's Bride by Jayne Castle. Very happy to find a medieval historical romance. Rhona is a strong, independent woman when she should be meek, mild and under the control of her father or husband. She doesn't really want to marry, but if she does, she wants to marry a man who will love her and respect her for her intelligence and strength.
Taran is Rhona's father's head guardsman. And in love with Rhona. She is oblivious and he knows that one such as her will never look upon a scarred, beastly man like him with love. When Rhona's rebelliousness lands her in a heap of trouble and her father forces her to accept a marriage, Taran steps in to see if he can win her as his prize.
A very sweet story with some passionate scenes. The love scenes could have been hotter for my taste, but I loved the characters, the setting, the story moved along at a nice pace and I rooted for the couple to fall in love.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Taran is Rhona's father's head guardsman. And in love with Rhona. She is oblivious and he knows that one such as her will never look upon a scarred, beastly man like him with love. When Rhona's rebelliousness lands her in a heap of trouble and her father forces her to accept a marriage, Taran steps in to see if he can win her as his prize.
A very sweet story with some passionate scenes. The love scenes could have been hotter for my taste, but I loved the characters, the setting, the story moved along at a nice pace and I rooted for the couple to fall in love.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 7, 2019
Now THAT was an excellent book to read! Such a compelling story and one that grips your attention from start to finish. You can't help but fall in love with Taran MacKinnon, the badly scarred hero of the story. When you find out how he got those scars, you can't help but cry. He has been in love with Rhona MacLeod ever since he became her father's most trusted warrior but she can't see beyond the scars and he doubts he'll ever have a chance with her.
His chance does come when he decides to enter the competition set out by Rhona's father in which she must marry the victor of the games. I just loved the way he tries to woo her, for such a big, strong warrior, he has a very tender heart. It doesn't take long before she sees the real him and not the scars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
His chance does come when he decides to enter the competition set out by Rhona's father in which she must marry the victor of the games. I just loved the way he tries to woo her, for such a big, strong warrior, he has a very tender heart. It doesn't take long before she sees the real him and not the scars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
July 24, 2019
THE BEAST’S BRIDE : is just okay. None of the characters appealed to me. The heroine was too haughty and the beast, meh.
April 9, 2019
The Beast's Bride
The Brides of Skye #1
By Jayne Castel
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rhona MacLeod is a beautiful middle daughter with a fiery temper that matches her hair. She is also the daughter of a clan chief of the Isle of Skye. She wants nothing more then to remain free and live her life the way she wants to without having to bow down to any man, especially a husband, so she refuses all of the would be suitors that have asked for her hand. It also doesn't help that she just seems to know that these men are not right for her and would only stifle her way of life.
Taran MacKinnon is one of Cheiftan MacLeod's most trusted warriors and some may say that he is the chiefs dog. He does anything and everything that he is asked to do by the chief. He has a secret though. He carries a secret passion for his chief's middle daughter. However he bears some horrible scars on his face and sometimes that's all that people see. They see the scars and not the man. Rhona is one of those people and she has never been able to see past his scars and forbidding appearance that has earned him the horrible name of 'The Beast of Dunvegan'.
Then when Rhona's father has had enough of her defiance, he makes a decision that will force his daughter to take a husband weather she wants to or not. He decides to hold some games. These games will bring warriors from far and wide to compete for the fair Rhona's hand and she has no choice, but to wed the victor whoever he may be. Taran finally sees his chance to not only prove himself, but win as well. If he wins he gets the woman he has always wanted, but can he win her heart as well?
Wow this is the first book that I have ever read from Jayne Castel and I am totally floored. It doesn't get better then this. There was never a dull moment and it was so good that I'm almost ready to cry now that it's done. It took me on a roller coaster of emotions that I can't even begin to explain. There were times I smiled and there were times I wanted to jump in the book and smack someone upside the head. This is what makes a perfect book to me. I can't wait to read the next story because I truly feel like I personally know these characters now.
The Brides of Skye #1
By Jayne Castel
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rhona MacLeod is a beautiful middle daughter with a fiery temper that matches her hair. She is also the daughter of a clan chief of the Isle of Skye. She wants nothing more then to remain free and live her life the way she wants to without having to bow down to any man, especially a husband, so she refuses all of the would be suitors that have asked for her hand. It also doesn't help that she just seems to know that these men are not right for her and would only stifle her way of life.
Taran MacKinnon is one of Cheiftan MacLeod's most trusted warriors and some may say that he is the chiefs dog. He does anything and everything that he is asked to do by the chief. He has a secret though. He carries a secret passion for his chief's middle daughter. However he bears some horrible scars on his face and sometimes that's all that people see. They see the scars and not the man. Rhona is one of those people and she has never been able to see past his scars and forbidding appearance that has earned him the horrible name of 'The Beast of Dunvegan'.
Then when Rhona's father has had enough of her defiance, he makes a decision that will force his daughter to take a husband weather she wants to or not. He decides to hold some games. These games will bring warriors from far and wide to compete for the fair Rhona's hand and she has no choice, but to wed the victor whoever he may be. Taran finally sees his chance to not only prove himself, but win as well. If he wins he gets the woman he has always wanted, but can he win her heart as well?
Wow this is the first book that I have ever read from Jayne Castel and I am totally floored. It doesn't get better then this. There was never a dull moment and it was so good that I'm almost ready to cry now that it's done. It took me on a roller coaster of emotions that I can't even begin to explain. There were times I smiled and there were times I wanted to jump in the book and smack someone upside the head. This is what makes a perfect book to me. I can't wait to read the next story because I truly feel like I personally know these characters now.
August 24, 2020
Ugh. I usually don't review but there are so few reviews here that I feel I need to. A lot of things I disliked.
1. We literally know nothing about either of the characters. We know Tarans dad was abusive. He mentions it one time in the whole book about how his dad carved his face up with a knife and then that's it.
2. No chemistry
3. I feel like this had so much room for potential. I feel like this book was itching to be a HISTORICAL romance instead of a romance just set somewhere in the distant past. Instead it was boring and flat. I had to skim the last 30% of the book to say I at least finished it. Bland. There were portions(like after the handfasting) where weeks passed in a mere sentence. So much room for potential! Could have built their relationship and some kind of chemistry in that time. Or like when she escaped and Taran had to travel to find her and drag her back home. Had a lot of potential for adventure and to build some sexual tension. Sharing a tent. Talking around a campfire. Getting to know each other. Evading bandits? Idk. Instead the trip home took a few paragraphs
4. All the characters were annoying. There were no morally ambiguous characters. Everyone was a bad guy or a good guy with little in between.
1. We literally know nothing about either of the characters. We know Tarans dad was abusive. He mentions it one time in the whole book about how his dad carved his face up with a knife and then that's it.
2. No chemistry
3. I feel like this had so much room for potential. I feel like this book was itching to be a HISTORICAL romance instead of a romance just set somewhere in the distant past. Instead it was boring and flat. I had to skim the last 30% of the book to say I at least finished it. Bland. There were portions(like after the handfasting) where weeks passed in a mere sentence. So much room for potential! Could have built their relationship and some kind of chemistry in that time. Or like when she escaped and Taran had to travel to find her and drag her back home. Had a lot of potential for adventure and to build some sexual tension. Sharing a tent. Talking around a campfire. Getting to know each other. Evading bandits? Idk. Instead the trip home took a few paragraphs
4. All the characters were annoying. There were no morally ambiguous characters. Everyone was a bad guy or a good guy with little in between.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 22, 2019
This is a riveting, dramatic, entertaining and romantic. Taran is kind, stubborn, tough and a little naive. Rhona is feisty, determined, protective and brave. Her father gets angry because she keeps telling suitors no, then he catches her and Taran practicing self-defense moves and loses it. He decides that there will be a competition for her hand. Shocked and hurt, she runs away. Her father sends Taran after her and she tries to talk him into either letting her go, or going with her, but he says no. Come the day of competition Rhona is angry and hurt to find Taran participating. Unbeknownst to her Taran has been in love with her for years, but he knew he didn't have a chance with her because of his scarred face, and he can't bear to see her given to a man who would kill her spirit. A marriage full of trust issues and misunderstandings follows.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Booksprout. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Booksprout. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
August 22, 2019
Debo confesar que cuando agarré este libro lo hice con muy pocas o nada de expectativas, pues me llamó la atención el argumento que se me hizo algo parecido a la trama a la película de Disney la Princesa Valiente, y hasta llegué a pensar: Ufff otra historia que seguro no me terminará gustando, pero cual fue mi sorpresa que aunque sí tuvo su par de cosillas que no me convencieron del todo, me atrapó desde las primeras páginas, tenía mucho tiempo que un libro no me lo terminaba en un día de lo enganchada que me tenía.
Los personajes de Rhona y Taran simplemente me enamoraron, ambos de carácter fuerte, luchadores a pesar de sus circunstancias. Simplemente bellos personajes. Otros que odie por completo fueron el padre de Rhona y otros indeseables que me hacen dar gracias que no nací en esas épocas, que terrible tiempo eran esos para las mujeres en general.
Ahora estoy deseosa por seguir leyendo los siguientes libros, la historia de la hermana de Rhona, Adaira me llama muchisimo y ni qué decir la de Caitrin.
Mi calificación 4.5 ESTRELLAS
Los personajes de Rhona y Taran simplemente me enamoraron, ambos de carácter fuerte, luchadores a pesar de sus circunstancias. Simplemente bellos personajes. Otros que odie por completo fueron el padre de Rhona y otros indeseables que me hacen dar gracias que no nací en esas épocas, que terrible tiempo eran esos para las mujeres en general.
Ahora estoy deseosa por seguir leyendo los siguientes libros, la historia de la hermana de Rhona, Adaira me llama muchisimo y ni qué decir la de Caitrin.
Mi calificación 4.5 ESTRELLAS
June 23, 2022
Wow! I liked this a lot more than I thought I would. I don’t love reading medieval histrom but I liked the story and the 2 MCs. There was a lot of violence and abuse, on page. There was an abusive husband, abusive father, off page abuse in the past, and a forced marriage. But, I got sucked in to the story pretty quickly and am pretty interested in reading the rest of the series if only to find out how the other 2 sisters get their HEA.
August 21, 2020
A bit conflicted
It’s good to be tough especially as a woman but sometimes you have to know when to quit. And Rhona just didn’t ever stop. I like Taran way better he was a well rounded character. All the others were either very angry or depressed and I couldn’t dig it even with the depicted times.
It’s good to be tough especially as a woman but sometimes you have to know when to quit. And Rhona just didn’t ever stop. I like Taran way better he was a well rounded character. All the others were either very angry or depressed and I couldn’t dig it even with the depicted times.
September 12, 2023
I can’t decide if I appreciate that this book felt different than others by the author or not. I REALLY LIKED tartan but I disliked Rhona for at least 50% of the book, if not more. But she did grow on me! And I think I’m really going to enjoy the rest of the series especially seeing all three of the sisters grow.
August 10, 2019
good. but some odd characters. Da, what's the problem??? OTT. also, every guy ever. kinda ridiculous, especially in the area.
I'm interested in the next book.
I'm interested in the next book.
February 25, 2023
2.5 Stars
First time author for me. Overall it was a solid read. Decent writing and storytelling. The MCs were interesting and carried the story along.
However, the biggest issue of this book or perhaps this author's writing style was that for such an interesting story it lacked true feeling. It never felt like it engaged me or made me feel any emotions for what was happening on the pages. Which was a tragedy in itself tbh. That was my biggest disappointment after finishing the story. The lack of real feeling and emotion along with the steady pacing which never peaked, just simply flowed along.
The highlight for me was the hero Taran. He was the perfect tortured hero but without the hard demeanor. He was certainly no ray of sunshine but he was more along the lines of the quiet strong type. He was fiercely loyal and was a firm believer in saying as little as possible when only a few words will suffice. He had a cool temper and a masterful sword hand.
He was also very much in love with the heroine Rhona when the book begins. I actually liked that slight spin on the story. It was sweet, I'll admit. But sadly it didn't quite live up to the type of romantic story you hope to read. We learn Taran came to love Rhona shortly after her sixteenth birthday when he first met her. After that we never receive any flashbacks or references to special key moments or conversations where deeper feelings might have developed. We're simply TOLD it happened and is still a current thing. That's it.
Which was pretty underwhelming. Much like the overall "romance" between Rhona and Taran. Sad to say it was barely a blip in the story. Even after they marry and and Taran asks if he can woo Rhona we get told about one or two things in the current timeline he began doing or did for her and then jump three weeks to them going on a picnic he planned for them. Literally we didn't get to experience any of the said wooing! Tell me, what was the point then?
Then later Rhona begins stressing about how she now believes Taran either regrets marrying her or prefers their marriage to remain chaste because he hasn't had sex with her since their wedding night. Nor had they kissed once, not even on their wedding night. For me this was incredibly obnoxious and a blatant play for contrived drama because all Rhona had to do was communicate with Taran! Instead she made assumptions and whined in her thoughts about how it was unfair he would introduce her to the sexual side of their relationship and leave her wanting more. She was really curious and wanted to have sex with her husband but never once attempted to speak to him. She just simply expected him to make all the moves and then when he continued wooing her without sex and kissing she assumed he didn't want her. Cry me a river.
I really hated that silly drama. It was so easily solved. And when Taran's about to go into battle weeks later she finally conronts him in the stables and apologizes for yelling at him in the garden about how he hadn't kissed her yet. Because you see? Silly Rhona hadn't considered perhaps her big scarred husband who had been dubbed "beast" by most folk might not have a lot of experience with women. Sweet Taran had never kissed a woman, because what woman would want to kiss him with his scars? He had never kissed the women he'd had sex with. And once this was explained they kissed and had sex against the wall in the stables.
Which usually would have been a fascinating scene to read, am I right? 😏 Alas it was not. It was detailed enough to know what was happening but it once again lacked much feeling or portrayed the intimacy they shared with one another. It was mere words on a screen for me.
I actually didn't mind the more chaste love scenes for as few as there were. I just wish they'd carried some form of emotion or feeling. Specifically the romance between Rhona and Taran was superficial at best. Taran was already in love with her, true. But Rhona barely saw him as a man for half the book! He was simply her father's man, his loyal hound. 🙄 It seemed she saw him but looked right through him. While Taran never once thought he could have Rhona whether because the scars on his face because she would never look upon him in that way or because he figured she'd eventually choose a man she could love to marry and it would make losing her easier.
That for me was sad. Taran, as much as I liked him, he didn't really fight for Rhona. Not in the ways that mattered. Yes he technically fought in the tournament to win her hand in marriage and won. True. But he didn't stand up to her father when he realized her father had smacked her around and made her lip bleed. He didn't disobey bringing her back to the castle when she ran away and he was sent to retrieve her. He was a little too quiet in times I wanted him to speak up and truly protect her. He never made a true grand gesture where it counter and was needed most.
Because through it all the actual romance between Taran and Rhona was tepid at best. Hugely lacking in depth and true feeling. They lacked any true chemistry as a couple. They were flat and one dimensional.
Then there was the heroine Rhona. I actually liked her for the most part. At times I felt she acted rashly and childishly but she would later admit her wrongdoing, even calling herself on her own actions by naming them as childish or a tantrum and actually apologize. She was a strong young woman trying to control her fate in a world where women were simply used for bargaining and breeding. I understood her frustration and I did respect her.
But did I believe she actually fell in love with Taran? Not so much. If perhaps I don't think much on it then yes, she was very much in love by the end of the story. But I did think on it and fact is it was simply too soon IMO for Rhona's love to be believable. Partially because the author time jumped important relationship building scenes when Taran was wooing her. And second because how little Rhona felt for Taran as a man from the beginning of the story. She never once thought of him as more than her father's trusted man. She didn't see him as a possible suitor or marriageable man. She had him train her behind her father's back but still didn't think of him any differently than other men. It was a bit ridiculous for the author to expect me to believe that Rhona suddenly began to notice him and care for him in a matter of weeks when she literally felt nada for him. Only indifference.
Though my most frustrating moment was throughout the entire story Rhona's father was portrayed as a somewhat caring father to his children if not firm and strict. But from all his accumulated scenes I felt he was more a villain. He was just plain awful yet despite how he speaks down to his daughters and cares absolutely nothing for their happiness and even smacks Rhona I'm supposed to feel warm and fuzzy because he seemed proud of her ability to fight when Taran brought her to the battle at the end? Nah, no thanks. Especially with how he treated the youngest daughter Adaira at the end. What a asshole.
It felt like the author was trying to write their father like three different types all in one and honestly all of them were assholes and not worth any love or respect from his children. Or hell, even Taran's loyalty. Certainly made me question his way of thinking if he found something to admire in Rhona's father.
All in all it was an alright story. Passed the time. I plan to check out the second book and decide for sure if me and this author will have a future.
First time author for me. Overall it was a solid read. Decent writing and storytelling. The MCs were interesting and carried the story along.
However, the biggest issue of this book or perhaps this author's writing style was that for such an interesting story it lacked true feeling. It never felt like it engaged me or made me feel any emotions for what was happening on the pages. Which was a tragedy in itself tbh. That was my biggest disappointment after finishing the story. The lack of real feeling and emotion along with the steady pacing which never peaked, just simply flowed along.
The highlight for me was the hero Taran. He was the perfect tortured hero but without the hard demeanor. He was certainly no ray of sunshine but he was more along the lines of the quiet strong type. He was fiercely loyal and was a firm believer in saying as little as possible when only a few words will suffice. He had a cool temper and a masterful sword hand.
He was also very much in love with the heroine Rhona when the book begins. I actually liked that slight spin on the story. It was sweet, I'll admit. But sadly it didn't quite live up to the type of romantic story you hope to read. We learn Taran came to love Rhona shortly after her sixteenth birthday when he first met her. After that we never receive any flashbacks or references to special key moments or conversations where deeper feelings might have developed. We're simply TOLD it happened and is still a current thing. That's it.
Which was pretty underwhelming. Much like the overall "romance" between Rhona and Taran. Sad to say it was barely a blip in the story. Even after they marry and and Taran asks if he can woo Rhona we get told about one or two things in the current timeline he began doing or did for her and then jump three weeks to them going on a picnic he planned for them. Literally we didn't get to experience any of the said wooing! Tell me, what was the point then?
Then later Rhona begins stressing about how she now believes Taran either regrets marrying her or prefers their marriage to remain chaste because he hasn't had sex with her since their wedding night. Nor had they kissed once, not even on their wedding night. For me this was incredibly obnoxious and a blatant play for contrived drama because all Rhona had to do was communicate with Taran! Instead she made assumptions and whined in her thoughts about how it was unfair he would introduce her to the sexual side of their relationship and leave her wanting more. She was really curious and wanted to have sex with her husband but never once attempted to speak to him. She just simply expected him to make all the moves and then when he continued wooing her without sex and kissing she assumed he didn't want her. Cry me a river.
I really hated that silly drama. It was so easily solved. And when Taran's about to go into battle weeks later she finally conronts him in the stables and apologizes for yelling at him in the garden about how he hadn't kissed her yet. Because you see? Silly Rhona hadn't considered perhaps her big scarred husband who had been dubbed "beast" by most folk might not have a lot of experience with women. Sweet Taran had never kissed a woman, because what woman would want to kiss him with his scars? He had never kissed the women he'd had sex with. And once this was explained they kissed and had sex against the wall in the stables.
Which usually would have been a fascinating scene to read, am I right? 😏 Alas it was not. It was detailed enough to know what was happening but it once again lacked much feeling or portrayed the intimacy they shared with one another. It was mere words on a screen for me.
I actually didn't mind the more chaste love scenes for as few as there were. I just wish they'd carried some form of emotion or feeling. Specifically the romance between Rhona and Taran was superficial at best. Taran was already in love with her, true. But Rhona barely saw him as a man for half the book! He was simply her father's man, his loyal hound. 🙄 It seemed she saw him but looked right through him. While Taran never once thought he could have Rhona whether because the scars on his face because she would never look upon him in that way or because he figured she'd eventually choose a man she could love to marry and it would make losing her easier.
That for me was sad. Taran, as much as I liked him, he didn't really fight for Rhona. Not in the ways that mattered. Yes he technically fought in the tournament to win her hand in marriage and won. True. But he didn't stand up to her father when he realized her father had smacked her around and made her lip bleed. He didn't disobey bringing her back to the castle when she ran away and he was sent to retrieve her. He was a little too quiet in times I wanted him to speak up and truly protect her. He never made a true grand gesture where it counter and was needed most.
Because through it all the actual romance between Taran and Rhona was tepid at best. Hugely lacking in depth and true feeling. They lacked any true chemistry as a couple. They were flat and one dimensional.
Then there was the heroine Rhona. I actually liked her for the most part. At times I felt she acted rashly and childishly but she would later admit her wrongdoing, even calling herself on her own actions by naming them as childish or a tantrum and actually apologize. She was a strong young woman trying to control her fate in a world where women were simply used for bargaining and breeding. I understood her frustration and I did respect her.
But did I believe she actually fell in love with Taran? Not so much. If perhaps I don't think much on it then yes, she was very much in love by the end of the story. But I did think on it and fact is it was simply too soon IMO for Rhona's love to be believable. Partially because the author time jumped important relationship building scenes when Taran was wooing her. And second because how little Rhona felt for Taran as a man from the beginning of the story. She never once thought of him as more than her father's trusted man. She didn't see him as a possible suitor or marriageable man. She had him train her behind her father's back but still didn't think of him any differently than other men. It was a bit ridiculous for the author to expect me to believe that Rhona suddenly began to notice him and care for him in a matter of weeks when she literally felt nada for him. Only indifference.
Though my most frustrating moment was throughout the entire story Rhona's father was portrayed as a somewhat caring father to his children if not firm and strict. But from all his accumulated scenes I felt he was more a villain. He was just plain awful yet despite how he speaks down to his daughters and cares absolutely nothing for their happiness and even smacks Rhona I'm supposed to feel warm and fuzzy because he seemed proud of her ability to fight when Taran brought her to the battle at the end? Nah, no thanks. Especially with how he treated the youngest daughter Adaira at the end. What a asshole.
It felt like the author was trying to write their father like three different types all in one and honestly all of them were assholes and not worth any love or respect from his children. Or hell, even Taran's loyalty. Certainly made me question his way of thinking if he found something to admire in Rhona's father.
All in all it was an alright story. Passed the time. I plan to check out the second book and decide for sure if me and this author will have a future.
August 25, 2019
MARVELLOUS BECAUSE IT STARTED OFF WITH THE CHARACTERS BEING CLOSE TO STRANGERS YET SOON THEY WERE WEDDED. I am a sucker for marriage before Iove troupes and this one was great if not the best.
HERO is scarred and has had a tough upbringing that shaped him into a cold, seasoned warrior. That's what you would think, but he's actually a man in love...well unrequited love. This time, our hero isn't a Chieftain or a man with means or power, he's merely the heroine's father's personal guard, his Guard dog in a way. He never aspired to reach above his station but when all bets are off and Rhona's hand will be won in a match then he will try his luck. Taran is the kind of male you know you can trust to have your back and be protected from. He will make a splendid father. While the marriage wasn't what he had in mind, he didn't hesitate to woo his wife and win her heart. He also respects her and let's her be herself without caging her.
HEROINE is the second daughter and is being forced to wed suitors whom she has no interest or chemistry with. In fact they are either old or lecherous. Rhona has never looked at Taran with the eyes of a woman. She only knows him by the rumours and apart from their clandestine training sessions, they were quite profound strangers. When she tries to escape her father's crazy scheme of marrying her off to a winner of a match for her hand, Taran was the one who captured her back. Needless to say, when he joins the match himself, she's angered and also betrayed. I'm only happy to say that while she can be a shrew, Rhona does give Taran a chance and soon warms up to him and his love confession.
OVERALL the characters may not have shown a deeper connection in their relationship but it was enough. Both respected and cared for the other, they were two of them against the world and had each other's back. It was wonderful.
HERO is scarred and has had a tough upbringing that shaped him into a cold, seasoned warrior. That's what you would think, but he's actually a man in love...well unrequited love. This time, our hero isn't a Chieftain or a man with means or power, he's merely the heroine's father's personal guard, his Guard dog in a way. He never aspired to reach above his station but when all bets are off and Rhona's hand will be won in a match then he will try his luck. Taran is the kind of male you know you can trust to have your back and be protected from. He will make a splendid father. While the marriage wasn't what he had in mind, he didn't hesitate to woo his wife and win her heart. He also respects her and let's her be herself without caging her.
HEROINE is the second daughter and is being forced to wed suitors whom she has no interest or chemistry with. In fact they are either old or lecherous. Rhona has never looked at Taran with the eyes of a woman. She only knows him by the rumours and apart from their clandestine training sessions, they were quite profound strangers. When she tries to escape her father's crazy scheme of marrying her off to a winner of a match for her hand, Taran was the one who captured her back. Needless to say, when he joins the match himself, she's angered and also betrayed. I'm only happy to say that while she can be a shrew, Rhona does give Taran a chance and soon warms up to him and his love confession.
OVERALL the characters may not have shown a deeper connection in their relationship but it was enough. Both respected and cared for the other, they were two of them against the world and had each other's back. It was wonderful.
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