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Wild Wicked Highlanders #3
Hit Me With Your Best Scot
The MacTaggert brothers have one task:
Find English brides or lose their land!
Coll MacTaggert, Viscount Glendarril, is a big, brawny Highlander who doesn’t like being told what to do—not even by his exasperated English mother who is determined to see her eldest son wedded and bedded. However, when he comes to the rescue of an irresistibly beautiful woman, Coll discovers that he may have found his perfect match…
The challenge isn’t that Persephone Jones is famous, wealthy, independent, and smarter than anyone he knows. The problem is that she is not interested in marrying any man---especially not a hot-headed Scot—even if he is the only man who seems to understand who she really is even when she’s not sure herself. When Coll learns that Persephone is actually a lady-in-hiding and someone is willing to kill her for what she stands to inherit…Well, Coll has never been one to turn down a fight. When hearts are involved, nothing comes between a Highlander and his lady.
Find English brides or lose their land!
Coll MacTaggert, Viscount Glendarril, is a big, brawny Highlander who doesn’t like being told what to do—not even by his exasperated English mother who is determined to see her eldest son wedded and bedded. However, when he comes to the rescue of an irresistibly beautiful woman, Coll discovers that he may have found his perfect match…
The challenge isn’t that Persephone Jones is famous, wealthy, independent, and smarter than anyone he knows. The problem is that she is not interested in marrying any man---especially not a hot-headed Scot—even if he is the only man who seems to understand who she really is even when she’s not sure herself. When Coll learns that Persephone is actually a lady-in-hiding and someone is willing to kill her for what she stands to inherit…Well, Coll has never been one to turn down a fight. When hearts are involved, nothing comes between a Highlander and his lady.
331 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 9, 2021
About the author
Suzanne Enoch
94 books2,470 followersSuzanne was born in Southern California sometime in the latter half of the 20th century. In the way that some people are born knowing they want to be astronauts or cellists, Suzanne always knew she wanted to be a writer. Early dreams of becoming a zoologist and writing true stories about her adventures in Africa were crushed, however, after she viewed a television special about the world’s most poisonous snakes; she did NOT want to write about how she’d been bitten and lost a limb to a cobra. Thankfully at the same time the movie “Star Wars” premiered, and she realized that she could make up adventures and write about them, and not be eaten by deadly predators while doing research.
She dabbled in romantic fantasy writing for a year or two after graduating with a degree in English from the University of California, Irvine, until her affection for traditional Regency romances led her to write one for fun. After several encouraging rejections from publishers, she snared the interest of the world’s best and most patient literary agent, who advised her to revise the manuscript. This ultimately led to the publication of her first book, The Black Duke’s Prize, from Avon Books in the Spring of 1995. A second Regency, Angel’s Devil, followed that Fall.
When Avon folded its traditional Regency line, Suzanne was encouraged to try her hand at historical romance. As she remained keenly interested in England’s Regency period, she decided to attempt another manuscript set in that time. Lady Rogue hit the shelves in March of 1997. She wrote a total of 29 books for Avon, including two anthologies and a five-part contemporary series which received a pair of starred reviews from Publishers Weekly. One of those books, Twice the Temptation, was named one of the five best romances of the year by PW in 2007.
In 2002 her well-known love of all things “Star Wars” led to an invitation to appear on the E! channel in the television special “Star Wars: The Force Is Back”, where she discussed the romance in the movie series and ended up with more air time than George Lucas.
In 2010 Suzanne left Avon Books for St. Martin’s Press, where she continues to pen historical romance novels. Her 31st book, Taming an Impossible Rogue, is set to arrive in March 2012.
Suzanne is known for her humorous characters, sexy bad boys, and whip-sharp, witty dialogue. She currently resides in Placentia, California with several hundred guppies and various other tropical fish, and handful of very loud, spinach-loving finches. And her collection of action figures and statues from “Star Wars”, “Lord of the Rings”, “X-Men”, and “Pirates of the Caribbean”. Everybody needs some inspiration, after all.
www.facebook.com/SuzanneEnoch
She dabbled in romantic fantasy writing for a year or two after graduating with a degree in English from the University of California, Irvine, until her affection for traditional Regency romances led her to write one for fun. After several encouraging rejections from publishers, she snared the interest of the world’s best and most patient literary agent, who advised her to revise the manuscript. This ultimately led to the publication of her first book, The Black Duke’s Prize, from Avon Books in the Spring of 1995. A second Regency, Angel’s Devil, followed that Fall.
When Avon folded its traditional Regency line, Suzanne was encouraged to try her hand at historical romance. As she remained keenly interested in England’s Regency period, she decided to attempt another manuscript set in that time. Lady Rogue hit the shelves in March of 1997. She wrote a total of 29 books for Avon, including two anthologies and a five-part contemporary series which received a pair of starred reviews from Publishers Weekly. One of those books, Twice the Temptation, was named one of the five best romances of the year by PW in 2007.
In 2002 her well-known love of all things “Star Wars” led to an invitation to appear on the E! channel in the television special “Star Wars: The Force Is Back”, where she discussed the romance in the movie series and ended up with more air time than George Lucas.
In 2010 Suzanne left Avon Books for St. Martin’s Press, where she continues to pen historical romance novels. Her 31st book, Taming an Impossible Rogue, is set to arrive in March 2012.
Suzanne is known for her humorous characters, sexy bad boys, and whip-sharp, witty dialogue. She currently resides in Placentia, California with several hundred guppies and various other tropical fish, and handful of very loud, spinach-loving finches. And her collection of action figures and statues from “Star Wars”, “Lord of the Rings”, “X-Men”, and “Pirates of the Caribbean”. Everybody needs some inspiration, after all.
www.facebook.com/SuzanneEnoch
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 499 reviews
March 16, 2022
i have severe dental anxiety and i’d rather go to the dentist than be forced to read this book again. bad? no. boring as fuck? yeah
February 26, 2021
I've been really enjoying the Wild Wicked Highlanders series by Suzanne Enoch (and those book titles always make me smile), but while I liked Hit Me With Your Best Scot, it wasn't my favorite in the series.
I think my biggest issue with this book was the pacing. It took me a little over a week to read, which is unusual for me, and I think the problem was that the plot seemed to drag on. I feel like the author had to draw things out as much as possible and didn't have quite enough material to do so. There were some manufactured-feeling twists and turns that didn't feel organic that turned me off slightly as well.
I also had a harder time getting to know Coll. I think he was the most difficult of the brothers for me to relate to, and I found his romance with the heroine to be the most underwhelming. I liked the fact that Coll is big and burly (natch), but his personality wasn't my thing.
Despite my issues, I still enjoyed Suzanne Enoch's writing a great deal, and I liked getting to visit with the MacTaggert family. The plot had some bright spots and some energy sprinkled about, but I don't think it quite lived up to its potential.
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I think my biggest issue with this book was the pacing. It took me a little over a week to read, which is unusual for me, and I think the problem was that the plot seemed to drag on. I feel like the author had to draw things out as much as possible and didn't have quite enough material to do so. There were some manufactured-feeling twists and turns that didn't feel organic that turned me off slightly as well.
I also had a harder time getting to know Coll. I think he was the most difficult of the brothers for me to relate to, and I found his romance with the heroine to be the most underwhelming. I liked the fact that Coll is big and burly (natch), but his personality wasn't my thing.
Despite my issues, I still enjoyed Suzanne Enoch's writing a great deal, and I liked getting to visit with the MacTaggert family. The plot had some bright spots and some energy sprinkled about, but I don't think it quite lived up to its potential.
goodreads|instagram|twitter|blog
February 7, 2021
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Perhaps he wasn’t Macbeth, but Coll MacTaggert might have been some perfect, pagan god of the old Highlands, lit by yellow lamplight and chiseled to stunning perfection by some unknown hand. Trouble, her heart beat in a fast tattoo. Trouble.
Third in the Wild Wicked Highlanders series, eldest brother Coll MacTaggert, Viscount Glendarril, is the only brother to have not found a bride. If you've read the other two books in the series, you'll know that the three MacTaggert brothers have come to London from the Highlands to fulfill a contract that their parents signed when they married. Their mother, Francesca, left the Highlands seventeen years ago after a fight with their father and they haven't seen her since. The contract stipulates that the three brothers all have to be married before their younger sister Eloise or their mother's money will stop funding their home Aldriss Park. With Eloise set to marry in four weeks, Coll is feeling the pressure as his other two brothers have found their wives. When he is escaping two women his mother is pushing at him at the theater, he ends up backstage and meets the one woman who makes him want to get to know her.
“If you’re not careful,” she said aloud, “I’m going to begin liking you.”
Persephone is the toast of the London stage and has been for the last eight years after she seemed to come out of nowhere. She's used to having to dodge unwanted attention but when the striking Highlander saves her from a particularly ardent aristocrat and doesn't force anything from her, she's interested. She's protective of her independence but when a string of accidents that seem to target her, she starts to think someone is after her and keeping Coll close is a good idea. Coll would never leave a damsel in distress and tweaking his mother by claiming her contract didn't say a he had to marry a Lady Englishwoman has him claiming to be Persephone's protector and fiancé. It's a fake relationship that is starting to get some emotional strings attached.
He’d saved her life at least once, had left a grand ball and his best chance to find a wife to be certain she wasn’t injured. No, she didn’t quite know how to classify him, but she did know one thing. She trusted him.
After reading and enjoying the first two in the series, I was a little worried that “let my fists do the talking” Coll might stomp about too much for me, but while he bloodies some noses, he's the strong but listening hero Persephone needed. The first half wanders a bit that slows the pace down while the author sets the story and makes sure to give Persephone's theater setting time and spotlight, if you're willing to sit and settle instead of wanting to rush, it does fill out instead of bog down the story. By the 30% mark, Persephone and Coll have hit the sheets (or rather the hay cart) and their hearts are well on the way to love, even if their minds are still caught up in actress and Viscount. Throughout, there is a some alluding to Persephone having a big secret and the hints drop to a reveal at about 60%. The reveal is nothing surprising for seasoned romance readers as the way to a happily ever after is clear.
Persephone Jones was the lass he wanted. Damn all propriety and tradition that said he couldn’t have her. And damn anyone who tried to stop him.
Persephone and Coll are, rightly, the best part of this book and at times I wished they could have just been left to be together. There's some of the emotional angst from Coll and feelings of abandonment from his mother and since this was the connecting thread throughout the series, I do think we should have gotten more of a conversation healing this not only between Coll and his mother but all three brothers hugging it out or something together with her. I just felt like there was still some unresolved angst from this. I also thought the wrap-up and danger from Persephone's secret didn't quite stick the landing at the end. When something is slowly carried throughout a story and built up to have importance, it's easy for it to feel too quickly wrapped up and anti-climatic when it only takes a couple pages to reveal and deal with villains, which happened for me here.
Evidently, she’d been luckier than she deserved. She’d hoped to find a capable man. What she’d found had been an honorable one.
There were times I thought the story could have been tightened and cleaned up because of how it favors a slower pace instead of snappy but I greatly enjoyed how Persephone and Coll dealt with each other honestly (Persephone has her secret but she's honest with her intentions) and with care. I can't help but hope for Eloise to get her own book, with the appearance of their father Angus I hope she travels to the Highlands to replace her English fiancé with a Scot. The MacTaggerts are a family I became fond of and would gladly read more about.
Perhaps he wasn’t Macbeth, but Coll MacTaggert might have been some perfect, pagan god of the old Highlands, lit by yellow lamplight and chiseled to stunning perfection by some unknown hand. Trouble, her heart beat in a fast tattoo. Trouble.
Third in the Wild Wicked Highlanders series, eldest brother Coll MacTaggert, Viscount Glendarril, is the only brother to have not found a bride. If you've read the other two books in the series, you'll know that the three MacTaggert brothers have come to London from the Highlands to fulfill a contract that their parents signed when they married. Their mother, Francesca, left the Highlands seventeen years ago after a fight with their father and they haven't seen her since. The contract stipulates that the three brothers all have to be married before their younger sister Eloise or their mother's money will stop funding their home Aldriss Park. With Eloise set to marry in four weeks, Coll is feeling the pressure as his other two brothers have found their wives. When he is escaping two women his mother is pushing at him at the theater, he ends up backstage and meets the one woman who makes him want to get to know her.
“If you’re not careful,” she said aloud, “I’m going to begin liking you.”
Persephone is the toast of the London stage and has been for the last eight years after she seemed to come out of nowhere. She's used to having to dodge unwanted attention but when the striking Highlander saves her from a particularly ardent aristocrat and doesn't force anything from her, she's interested. She's protective of her independence but when a string of accidents that seem to target her, she starts to think someone is after her and keeping Coll close is a good idea. Coll would never leave a damsel in distress and tweaking his mother by claiming her contract didn't say a he had to marry a Lady Englishwoman has him claiming to be Persephone's protector and fiancé. It's a fake relationship that is starting to get some emotional strings attached.
He’d saved her life at least once, had left a grand ball and his best chance to find a wife to be certain she wasn’t injured. No, she didn’t quite know how to classify him, but she did know one thing. She trusted him.
After reading and enjoying the first two in the series, I was a little worried that “let my fists do the talking” Coll might stomp about too much for me, but while he bloodies some noses, he's the strong but listening hero Persephone needed. The first half wanders a bit that slows the pace down while the author sets the story and makes sure to give Persephone's theater setting time and spotlight, if you're willing to sit and settle instead of wanting to rush, it does fill out instead of bog down the story. By the 30% mark, Persephone and Coll have hit the sheets (or rather the hay cart) and their hearts are well on the way to love, even if their minds are still caught up in actress and Viscount. Throughout, there is a some alluding to Persephone having a big secret and the hints drop to a reveal at about 60%. The reveal is nothing surprising for seasoned romance readers as the way to a happily ever after is clear.
Persephone Jones was the lass he wanted. Damn all propriety and tradition that said he couldn’t have her. And damn anyone who tried to stop him.
Persephone and Coll are, rightly, the best part of this book and at times I wished they could have just been left to be together. There's some of the emotional angst from Coll and feelings of abandonment from his mother and since this was the connecting thread throughout the series, I do think we should have gotten more of a conversation healing this not only between Coll and his mother but all three brothers hugging it out or something together with her. I just felt like there was still some unresolved angst from this. I also thought the wrap-up and danger from Persephone's secret didn't quite stick the landing at the end. When something is slowly carried throughout a story and built up to have importance, it's easy for it to feel too quickly wrapped up and anti-climatic when it only takes a couple pages to reveal and deal with villains, which happened for me here.
Evidently, she’d been luckier than she deserved. She’d hoped to find a capable man. What she’d found had been an honorable one.
There were times I thought the story could have been tightened and cleaned up because of how it favors a slower pace instead of snappy but I greatly enjoyed how Persephone and Coll dealt with each other honestly (Persephone has her secret but she's honest with her intentions) and with care. I can't help but hope for Eloise to get her own book, with the appearance of their father Angus I hope she travels to the Highlands to replace her English fiancé with a Scot. The MacTaggerts are a family I became fond of and would gladly read more about.
November 21, 2020
NB: Spoiler free ARC review – expected publication Feb 9th 2021
I am not a big fan of SE’s highlander series. I find the brothers unappealing, and Coll is the worst. Although he says he isn’t, he comes off exactly as someone describes him “a man who walks with his hands”.
Big and brawny is not my cup of tea. One who thinks all Britts are fops, with nothing to back up the theory just makes my eyes roll. He is the worst highlander in London cliché.
The relationship with the heroine seemed entirely based on lust, there was no charm, I was not smitten. If I wasn’t reading this for NetGalley I would have abandoned the book before I reached midways.
It’s such a shame as I am a fan of SE’s other series.
1.5 stars
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I am not a big fan of SE’s highlander series. I find the brothers unappealing, and Coll is the worst. Although he says he isn’t, he comes off exactly as someone describes him “a man who walks with his hands”.
Big and brawny is not my cup of tea. One who thinks all Britts are fops, with nothing to back up the theory just makes my eyes roll. He is the worst highlander in London cliché.
The relationship with the heroine seemed entirely based on lust, there was no charm, I was not smitten. If I wasn’t reading this for NetGalley I would have abandoned the book before I reached midways.
It’s such a shame as I am a fan of SE’s other series.
1.5 stars
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
November 6, 2020
So much love for this one!!!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
How great is this title anyway? The author really hit the mark with this book and series as a whole. I just love reading this author and she is quickly becoming a go-to favorite of mine!
Hit Me With Your Best Scot is wonderfully unique and just a refreshing, fun story. The characters are developed with deeply crafted detail and are so likable you really want the story to just keep going and going. Even though we have an awesome outcome, I want to read more!
This story is engaging and packed with energy that makes it hard to put it down. With splashes of romance, suspense, mystery, twists of all types, and in-depth detail, you find yourself with a rare and unique treat of a book.
Written with a nod towards old English/Gaelic language from Coll who is fresh from the Highlands, Enoch sets the stage with the right atmosphere for this story. Looking for a bride is not an easy task until he finds just the right person to help him land a Lady; or so he thinks.
Their connection is perfect and I love that they are intelligent and not what you expect. This is such a delightful book! I feel like I am gushing, I loved it so!
Definitely start from book one to get the full effect on this clan! It is worth every minute!
* copy received for review consideration
Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/hit-me-with-...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
How great is this title anyway? The author really hit the mark with this book and series as a whole. I just love reading this author and she is quickly becoming a go-to favorite of mine!
Hit Me With Your Best Scot is wonderfully unique and just a refreshing, fun story. The characters are developed with deeply crafted detail and are so likable you really want the story to just keep going and going. Even though we have an awesome outcome, I want to read more!
This story is engaging and packed with energy that makes it hard to put it down. With splashes of romance, suspense, mystery, twists of all types, and in-depth detail, you find yourself with a rare and unique treat of a book.
Written with a nod towards old English/Gaelic language from Coll who is fresh from the Highlands, Enoch sets the stage with the right atmosphere for this story. Looking for a bride is not an easy task until he finds just the right person to help him land a Lady; or so he thinks.
Their connection is perfect and I love that they are intelligent and not what you expect. This is such a delightful book! I feel like I am gushing, I loved it so!
Definitely start from book one to get the full effect on this clan! It is worth every minute!
* copy received for review consideration
Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/hit-me-with-...
April 29, 2022
We agreed on everything except how much we enjoyed reading this book. Coll and his brothers continue to have great character consistency; Persephone is a fun heroine; we HATE Matthew and wish he would die. Meg was meh while Laine absolutely loved this one.
39 Word Summaries:
Laine: The last Scottish brother meets his match in the form of an actress who is actually a lady. The Shakespeare references are subtle, as are the attempts at murder. I don't know why I was into an alpha brute.
Meg: Coll has to marry an English woman to keep his inheritance, so he chooses one: Persephone, London’s premiere actress. Of course Persie’s a lady in disguise so everything works out in the end. Matthew and Eloise still get married.
www.linktr.ee/plottrysts
39 Word Summaries:
Laine: The last Scottish brother meets his match in the form of an actress who is actually a lady. The Shakespeare references are subtle, as are the attempts at murder. I don't know why I was into an alpha brute.
Meg: Coll has to marry an English woman to keep his inheritance, so he chooses one: Persephone, London’s premiere actress. Of course Persie’s a lady in disguise so everything works out in the end. Matthew and Eloise still get married.
www.linktr.ee/plottrysts
January 2, 2021
What an action filled read! This had so much going on from the very beginning. There were family issues, mysteries inside mysteries, and the romance between the hero and heroine. The divide that was automatically between Coll and Persephone made the development of their relationship much more angsty than I anticipated.
I loved Coll and his big growly ways. He did attempt to do what was requested of him but through it all he couldn’t stop thinking about Persephone. That made him even more amazing to me. His character was written in such a way that I couldn’t help but fall in love with him. I did not read the previous book(s) so I missed whatever had him running down the street naked, but I loved him for it, whatever it was.
Persephone was an interesting heroine, especially for the time. She was dependent but in a way I was expecting. She also has a secret that I never saw coming and which had me turning pages faster.
I liked that there were no games between Persephone and Coll. They might have recognized their feelings and continued on with the charade of their relationship but even then they were still open and honest in every other way with each other.
This is filled with lots of friends and plenty of MacTaggerts and their wild but loyal ways, which I loved. The steam level is pretty intense and the heroine is pretty bold. I do wish there had been an epilogue but I suspect the author will give an update on them in a future book. Not my favorite, but at least we get Persephone’s and Coll’s happy ever after.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
I loved Coll and his big growly ways. He did attempt to do what was requested of him but through it all he couldn’t stop thinking about Persephone. That made him even more amazing to me. His character was written in such a way that I couldn’t help but fall in love with him. I did not read the previous book(s) so I missed whatever had him running down the street naked, but I loved him for it, whatever it was.
Persephone was an interesting heroine, especially for the time. She was dependent but in a way I was expecting. She also has a secret that I never saw coming and which had me turning pages faster.
I liked that there were no games between Persephone and Coll. They might have recognized their feelings and continued on with the charade of their relationship but even then they were still open and honest in every other way with each other.
This is filled with lots of friends and plenty of MacTaggerts and their wild but loyal ways, which I loved. The steam level is pretty intense and the heroine is pretty bold. I do wish there had been an epilogue but I suspect the author will give an update on them in a future book. Not my favorite, but at least we get Persephone’s and Coll’s happy ever after.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
November 10, 2021
Hit Me With Your Best Scot was my first pick as part of the "Historical Romance Read A Thon" hosted by Lisa, Lacey, and Jessica on YouTube. And my historical romance reading of late has definitely been lacking this year, 2021 has NOT been the year of reading historical romance and I definitely needed this read a thon to push me into reading this genre way more. I also received this as an ARC but never got around to actually reading it until now. Now I did alternate reading this from the audiobook and the ebook. I wasn't a huge fan of the narrator to be honest, I am not sure exactly what it was that bothered me, but the narration just wasn't my favorite and I ended up switching to the ebook format.
This story begins with our two main characters, our hero, Coll MacTaggert, who is the oldest of his siblings and the last one to marry. He knows that he must marry within the month or he and his brothers will have to forfeit their inheritance. But when he sees a woman that catches his eye, he wants her passionately and especially in knowing it would upset his parents in seeing his pair up with an actress for a wife. So he makes a bargain with her, and at first their relationship is one where its a business proposition but chemistry between them is hot and their is something deeper that builds between the two and what begins as business soon turns into both revealing secrets of the heart and soul and learning to fight for each other, no matter what the cost may be. But when strange occurrences start to happen to Persephone, Coll's protective instincts go into overdrive and he will do anything to protect the woman he loves, and also increase in his determination to keep her for a lifetime.
Hit Me With Your Best Scot was quite a fun historical romp and I had a blast in seeing what this author delivered. Now I will be honest this isn't my favorite work from this author, but I found it quite diverging in many respects. The pacing of the plot could be slow going at times but I did find that it increased as you delve deeper within the story. The humor of the dialogue definitely had the "Suzanne Enoch" stamp on it and she definitely portrayed her normal flair which I found quite entertaining and so many moments that I was highly amused. I really found this pairing to be quite unique. It's not common to see a highland noble and a famous actress find a HEA together, but somehow Enoch found a way to bring them their well-deserved ending, and the climax of bringing all the pieces together was blended in such a way that brings the reader to a culmination of satisfaction.
I was quite drawn to both of these characters and their relationship developed on a deeper level pretty quickly, but more quickly than I actually expected. We see them really unify in their feelings for each other earlier in the story and I found that spect more refreshing than having it all drawn out until the very end. The side characters of the family were quite the "cherry on the top" of the desert. We see how much flair of drama they bring to the table and I quite enjoyed seeing their contributions to the story and see our old favorites enter into the story. The siblings really gather together in this book and unify and I really loved seeing that aspect here. And also a small side story of the parents reconciling together which I wasn't expecting to see happen.
Overall I found Hit Me With Your Best Scot to be an adventurous, witty, and unique plot point to deliver a satisfying read of a romance and with some unexpected growths along the way. A story you definitely need to take advantage of and buckle up for the ride.
This story begins with our two main characters, our hero, Coll MacTaggert, who is the oldest of his siblings and the last one to marry. He knows that he must marry within the month or he and his brothers will have to forfeit their inheritance. But when he sees a woman that catches his eye, he wants her passionately and especially in knowing it would upset his parents in seeing his pair up with an actress for a wife. So he makes a bargain with her, and at first their relationship is one where its a business proposition but chemistry between them is hot and their is something deeper that builds between the two and what begins as business soon turns into both revealing secrets of the heart and soul and learning to fight for each other, no matter what the cost may be. But when strange occurrences start to happen to Persephone, Coll's protective instincts go into overdrive and he will do anything to protect the woman he loves, and also increase in his determination to keep her for a lifetime.
Hit Me With Your Best Scot was quite a fun historical romp and I had a blast in seeing what this author delivered. Now I will be honest this isn't my favorite work from this author, but I found it quite diverging in many respects. The pacing of the plot could be slow going at times but I did find that it increased as you delve deeper within the story. The humor of the dialogue definitely had the "Suzanne Enoch" stamp on it and she definitely portrayed her normal flair which I found quite entertaining and so many moments that I was highly amused. I really found this pairing to be quite unique. It's not common to see a highland noble and a famous actress find a HEA together, but somehow Enoch found a way to bring them their well-deserved ending, and the climax of bringing all the pieces together was blended in such a way that brings the reader to a culmination of satisfaction.
I was quite drawn to both of these characters and their relationship developed on a deeper level pretty quickly, but more quickly than I actually expected. We see them really unify in their feelings for each other earlier in the story and I found that spect more refreshing than having it all drawn out until the very end. The side characters of the family were quite the "cherry on the top" of the desert. We see how much flair of drama they bring to the table and I quite enjoyed seeing their contributions to the story and see our old favorites enter into the story. The siblings really gather together in this book and unify and I really loved seeing that aspect here. And also a small side story of the parents reconciling together which I wasn't expecting to see happen.
Overall I found Hit Me With Your Best Scot to be an adventurous, witty, and unique plot point to deliver a satisfying read of a romance and with some unexpected growths along the way. A story you definitely need to take advantage of and buckle up for the ride.
February 24, 2021
4 stars
You can read all of my reviews at Nerd Girl Loves Books.
This is a fun and flirty historical romance set in Victorian London. This is the third book in the series. I haven't read the first two, but it didn't affect my enjoyment of this book.
Viscount Glendarril Coll MacTaggert is a Scottish Highlander whose estranged English mother is requiring her three sons to marry an English woman before their youngest sister weds, or she will cut off funds to run their Scottish manor. With his two youngest brothers wed and/or betrothed to English ladies, and his sister's wedding only 4 weeks away, Coll has run out of options in stalling his mother's demands. But he's determined that he will find his own wife, thank you very much.
Enter Persephone Jones, a smart, beautiful, independent and mysterious actress that catches Coll's attention. Even if her occupation wasn't a big enough hindrance to their courtship, the fact that she has no interest in marrying Coll, or anyone, is a huge obstacle he must overcome. When someone tries to kill Persephone, Coll appoints himself her protector and vows to save her from harm, and discover who is trying to kill her. Of course, with all this time spent together, sparks are going to fly.
This is a quick read that provides plenty of escapism. I like that Persephone is smart and independent, not a weak and wishy-washy woman. There are far too many of those tropes in books as it is, so it's refreshing to see a character that isn't. Coll is also much more enlightened and non-judgmental than most leading men in romance novels. He actually listens to Persephone and is a partner to her, rather than domineering and overbearing.
Overall, this is a great Victorian romance with contemporary themes. It's a fun bit of escapism, and we can all use that these days.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the complimentary copy of the book. All opinions in this review are my own.
You can read all of my reviews at Nerd Girl Loves Books.
This is a fun and flirty historical romance set in Victorian London. This is the third book in the series. I haven't read the first two, but it didn't affect my enjoyment of this book.
Viscount Glendarril Coll MacTaggert is a Scottish Highlander whose estranged English mother is requiring her three sons to marry an English woman before their youngest sister weds, or she will cut off funds to run their Scottish manor. With his two youngest brothers wed and/or betrothed to English ladies, and his sister's wedding only 4 weeks away, Coll has run out of options in stalling his mother's demands. But he's determined that he will find his own wife, thank you very much.
Enter Persephone Jones, a smart, beautiful, independent and mysterious actress that catches Coll's attention. Even if her occupation wasn't a big enough hindrance to their courtship, the fact that she has no interest in marrying Coll, or anyone, is a huge obstacle he must overcome. When someone tries to kill Persephone, Coll appoints himself her protector and vows to save her from harm, and discover who is trying to kill her. Of course, with all this time spent together, sparks are going to fly.
This is a quick read that provides plenty of escapism. I like that Persephone is smart and independent, not a weak and wishy-washy woman. There are far too many of those tropes in books as it is, so it's refreshing to see a character that isn't. Coll is also much more enlightened and non-judgmental than most leading men in romance novels. He actually listens to Persephone and is a partner to her, rather than domineering and overbearing.
Overall, this is a great Victorian romance with contemporary themes. It's a fun bit of escapism, and we can all use that these days.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the complimentary copy of the book. All opinions in this review are my own.
October 23, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley for a arc copy for a honest review.
First of all let’s talk about how gorgeous this cover is... I know they say don’t judge a book by it’s cover but WOW!! Hit With Your Best Scot was so much fun to read. I loved the whole series, I give this book 5 Stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Happy Reading
Lisa
First of all let’s talk about how gorgeous this cover is... I know they say don’t judge a book by it’s cover but WOW!! Hit With Your Best Scot was so much fun to read. I loved the whole series, I give this book 5 Stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Happy Reading
Lisa
February 8, 2021
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
3.5 hearts
Hit Me With Your Best Scot is the third book in the Wild Wicked Highlanders series. I was a little worried that Cole MacTaggerts' book wouldn’t be as enjoyable as the other two brothers, as he seemed twice as stubborn and has had a few instances in the other books where he hasn’t come off well. But those Scottish boys can be charming when they want to be and Cole does know how to woo a lady when the need arises.
Cole is the first born but last to wed out of his brothers. Their mom made a deal with their dad when she left the highlands to return to London. All her boys needed to wed an Englishwoman before their sister weds or they lose all financial support from her. Since it is needed in the lean years for their tenants in Scotland, all the brothers acquiesced to this request, however reluctantly.
Cole is in a time crunch; he only has a few more weeks to find the woman who will be his wife and all the women his mother has brought around so far are either in it just for a title, afraid of him or only know how to talk about the weather. He just met one woman that is fiery, smart and isn’t afraid to verbally spar with him. She is an actress and totally not appropriate but she will get under his mother’s skin while he looks for a real bride.
Persephone is the best actress in London; she also appears to have someone out to kill her. Cole is a beautiful and intriguing man who has just offered to help Persephone figure out if someone is really trying to hurt her or if there were just a few coincidences. She offers to help him out by teaching him how to pick out a good Lady to wed. In the meantime, they can have a little fun together, right?
I again had a great time with the MacTaggerts. They are a family that will fight tooth and nail for one another and even run down the street naked with just a sword after a bad guy if the occasion calls for it. Cole and Persephone are a great fit and for all of his bluster Cole is a very caring man and even enlightened by English standards. I did love the way Cole’s family came around to Persephone and how well she held her own against his mother.
If you like Scottish brogues and men in kilts, this is another fun adventure into the love life of Scots. Like most books in this genre, it can be read as a stand alone.
Narration:
Mhairi Morrison has a lovely voice that captures the dialogue in this story well. Sometimes there were a few unusually long pauses but it wasn't too distracting. I was able to listen to the story at my usual 1.5x speed. I really liked the tone of voice she had for both Cole and Persephone.
Listen to a clip: HERE
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
3.5 hearts
Hit Me With Your Best Scot is the third book in the Wild Wicked Highlanders series. I was a little worried that Cole MacTaggerts' book wouldn’t be as enjoyable as the other two brothers, as he seemed twice as stubborn and has had a few instances in the other books where he hasn’t come off well. But those Scottish boys can be charming when they want to be and Cole does know how to woo a lady when the need arises.
Cole is the first born but last to wed out of his brothers. Their mom made a deal with their dad when she left the highlands to return to London. All her boys needed to wed an Englishwoman before their sister weds or they lose all financial support from her. Since it is needed in the lean years for their tenants in Scotland, all the brothers acquiesced to this request, however reluctantly.
Cole is in a time crunch; he only has a few more weeks to find the woman who will be his wife and all the women his mother has brought around so far are either in it just for a title, afraid of him or only know how to talk about the weather. He just met one woman that is fiery, smart and isn’t afraid to verbally spar with him. She is an actress and totally not appropriate but she will get under his mother’s skin while he looks for a real bride.
Persephone is the best actress in London; she also appears to have someone out to kill her. Cole is a beautiful and intriguing man who has just offered to help Persephone figure out if someone is really trying to hurt her or if there were just a few coincidences. She offers to help him out by teaching him how to pick out a good Lady to wed. In the meantime, they can have a little fun together, right?
I again had a great time with the MacTaggerts. They are a family that will fight tooth and nail for one another and even run down the street naked with just a sword after a bad guy if the occasion calls for it. Cole and Persephone are a great fit and for all of his bluster Cole is a very caring man and even enlightened by English standards. I did love the way Cole’s family came around to Persephone and how well she held her own against his mother.
If you like Scottish brogues and men in kilts, this is another fun adventure into the love life of Scots. Like most books in this genre, it can be read as a stand alone.
Narration:
Mhairi Morrison has a lovely voice that captures the dialogue in this story well. Sometimes there were a few unusually long pauses but it wasn't too distracting. I was able to listen to the story at my usual 1.5x speed. I really liked the tone of voice she had for both Cole and Persephone.
Listen to a clip: HERE
March 15, 2021
Hit Me With Your Best Scot features an excellent romance between a man who refuses to marry on his mother's timetable and the entirely unsuitable woman who tempts him.
Coll MacTaggert, Viscount Glendarril, doesn't like being told what to do least of all by his English mother who insists he marries. But when Coll spots Persephone Jones backstage at the theatre, he's instantly smitten. Unfortunately for Coll, Persephone isn't interested in any man certainly not a hot-headed Scot like Coll. Despite her protests, Persephone finds herself drawn to Coll and begins falling for his charms. When Coll learns someone is after Persephone, that someone is intent on killing her for what she stands to inherit, he's determined to protect her.
The mystery surrounding Persephone's past is very well done and I won't spoil how she ended up an actress in London, but I found her backstory intriguing. Persephone is a strong woman, she's sure of herself and is open about what she can or cannot handle. I liked Persephone from the start and how well she knew herself. Coll is the eldest of his brothers and the last of them to remain unattached which has gotten his mother on his case about marrying. Coll is used to calling the shots for himself and he hates being told what to do. Coll relies on his strength and I liked his confidence in his abilities.
Persephone and Coll's relationship starts as instant attraction between the two which quickly deepens into more. Their chemistry is amazing and they have fantastic banter. I loved the playfulness of their relationship and how quickly they became friends. When their relationship turns physical, it was very steamy and fantastically done. I enjoyed watching Persephone and Coll work to figure out who was after Persephone as the two work well together. I was ultimately surprised by who was behind the threat's on Persephone's life. The resolution was so well done and I loved the setting for the final showdown.
Overall Hit Me With Your Best Scot was a fantastic read and I definitely plan to go back and read the first two books in the series, It's Getting Scot in Here and Scot Under the Covers, soon.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
Coll MacTaggert, Viscount Glendarril, doesn't like being told what to do least of all by his English mother who insists he marries. But when Coll spots Persephone Jones backstage at the theatre, he's instantly smitten. Unfortunately for Coll, Persephone isn't interested in any man certainly not a hot-headed Scot like Coll. Despite her protests, Persephone finds herself drawn to Coll and begins falling for his charms. When Coll learns someone is after Persephone, that someone is intent on killing her for what she stands to inherit, he's determined to protect her.
The mystery surrounding Persephone's past is very well done and I won't spoil how she ended up an actress in London, but I found her backstory intriguing. Persephone is a strong woman, she's sure of herself and is open about what she can or cannot handle. I liked Persephone from the start and how well she knew herself. Coll is the eldest of his brothers and the last of them to remain unattached which has gotten his mother on his case about marrying. Coll is used to calling the shots for himself and he hates being told what to do. Coll relies on his strength and I liked his confidence in his abilities.
Persephone and Coll's relationship starts as instant attraction between the two which quickly deepens into more. Their chemistry is amazing and they have fantastic banter. I loved the playfulness of their relationship and how quickly they became friends. When their relationship turns physical, it was very steamy and fantastically done. I enjoyed watching Persephone and Coll work to figure out who was after Persephone as the two work well together. I was ultimately surprised by who was behind the threat's on Persephone's life. The resolution was so well done and I loved the setting for the final showdown.
Overall Hit Me With Your Best Scot was a fantastic read and I definitely plan to go back and read the first two books in the series, It's Getting Scot in Here and Scot Under the Covers, soon.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
February 6, 2021
A fitting conclusion to Highlanders series!
What a wild ride it’s been and in this third book in the series Coll MacTaggert, Viscount Glendarril, lives up to the MacTaggert tradition.
This is the man who pursued a villain down Grosvenor Square clad in nothing but his boots and carrying a large sword, to the secretly scandalized delight of the ton.
It stands to reason any answer to his mother’s demands for an English bride would be guaranteed to fly in her face. Remember the MacTaggert men had to find English brides or loose the monies needed to support Aldriss Park, the MacTaggert Highland stronghold, and all it’s dependents
These three brawny alpha males were dragged into doing something against their will by their Sassenach mother. Two had fallen for English women but now it’s Coll’s time for pay back, as his mother parades a series of either ambitious or feather brained chits before him. Being ambushed at the theatre was too much.
Coll chooses to give his mother a run for her money, so when he declares he’ll have an English bride of his own finding his mother didn’t expect an actress to be Coll’s answer.
The thing is he didn’t expect to become so enamoured of Persephone Jones, a talented Shakespeare actress, and when her life is threatened Coll finds himself facing a few hard questions.
Another delight from Enoch!
A St. Martin's Press ARC via NetGalley
What a wild ride it’s been and in this third book in the series Coll MacTaggert, Viscount Glendarril, lives up to the MacTaggert tradition.
This is the man who pursued a villain down Grosvenor Square clad in nothing but his boots and carrying a large sword, to the secretly scandalized delight of the ton.
It stands to reason any answer to his mother’s demands for an English bride would be guaranteed to fly in her face. Remember the MacTaggert men had to find English brides or loose the monies needed to support Aldriss Park, the MacTaggert Highland stronghold, and all it’s dependents
These three brawny alpha males were dragged into doing something against their will by their Sassenach mother. Two had fallen for English women but now it’s Coll’s time for pay back, as his mother parades a series of either ambitious or feather brained chits before him. Being ambushed at the theatre was too much.
Coll chooses to give his mother a run for her money, so when he declares he’ll have an English bride of his own finding his mother didn’t expect an actress to be Coll’s answer.
The thing is he didn’t expect to become so enamoured of Persephone Jones, a talented Shakespeare actress, and when her life is threatened Coll finds himself facing a few hard questions.
Another delight from Enoch!
A St. Martin's Press ARC via NetGalley
February 2, 2021
I’m glad I persevered…
I have to admit that I’m not a huge fan of changing the rules. I started reading Hit Me With Your Best Scot hesitantly, knowing that an actress and a lord together would be changing the rules. I was also hesitant that the author would come up with a suitable excuse to pardon this faux pas. But, do you know what made my eye twitch the most? The actress is ‘EXPERIENCED’. The shock… The horror! Don’t get your knickers in a knot, I’m not being all double standard…ish. It’s just that I read historical romance because I like the innocence and naivety of the heroine. Nothing better than a woman learning the ropes from someone she trusts. So, I started off with squinty eyes thinking already that this story was doomed…
Then, I realised that some of my most favourite stories in the world, started off rough and needed time to fall in love with. So, knowing that I was already falling in love with a burly, surly Scot, maybe I could get past the fact that the heroine didn’t need to learn what she wanted. I’m so glad that I persevered.
Hit Me With Your Best Scot, (eventually) became a story I found hard to put down. I loved the connection between Coll and Persephone and enjoyed watching their lust for each other grow to love. The familial relationship between brothers was strong and you knew that they would always have each other’s backs. Getting to know his sister was quite amusing and while it was obvious there was affection between them, she also played the annoying little sister well. The relationship between Coll and his mother was broken because of Coll’s feelings of abandonment. Of course, there are two sides to the story and what comes to light after his father makes an appearance, changes everything.
The danger to Persephone and the mystery around her past was well executed. I liked that Persephone was a strong character and lead her life by her own rules. Sure, there were a few times that she came across with too modern ideals, but she managed to convince me that she knew she was bucking tradition.
In the end, Hit Me With Your Best Scot left me thoroughly satisfied. Once I got past my need to see a ‘traditional’ historical romance read, I was able to relax into this enjoyable read. The characters were original, the storyline kept me entertained, and the romance between Coll and Persie kept me enthralled. I successfully navigated Wild Wicked Highlanders #2 without having previously read the first two instalments. Now that I have read #3, I would definitely be interested in going back to the beginning… soon…ish.
Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
I have to admit that I’m not a huge fan of changing the rules. I started reading Hit Me With Your Best Scot hesitantly, knowing that an actress and a lord together would be changing the rules. I was also hesitant that the author would come up with a suitable excuse to pardon this faux pas. But, do you know what made my eye twitch the most? The actress is ‘EXPERIENCED’. The shock… The horror! Don’t get your knickers in a knot, I’m not being all double standard…ish. It’s just that I read historical romance because I like the innocence and naivety of the heroine. Nothing better than a woman learning the ropes from someone she trusts. So, I started off with squinty eyes thinking already that this story was doomed…
Then, I realised that some of my most favourite stories in the world, started off rough and needed time to fall in love with. So, knowing that I was already falling in love with a burly, surly Scot, maybe I could get past the fact that the heroine didn’t need to learn what she wanted. I’m so glad that I persevered.
Hit Me With Your Best Scot, (eventually) became a story I found hard to put down. I loved the connection between Coll and Persephone and enjoyed watching their lust for each other grow to love. The familial relationship between brothers was strong and you knew that they would always have each other’s backs. Getting to know his sister was quite amusing and while it was obvious there was affection between them, she also played the annoying little sister well. The relationship between Coll and his mother was broken because of Coll’s feelings of abandonment. Of course, there are two sides to the story and what comes to light after his father makes an appearance, changes everything.
The danger to Persephone and the mystery around her past was well executed. I liked that Persephone was a strong character and lead her life by her own rules. Sure, there were a few times that she came across with too modern ideals, but she managed to convince me that she knew she was bucking tradition.
In the end, Hit Me With Your Best Scot left me thoroughly satisfied. Once I got past my need to see a ‘traditional’ historical romance read, I was able to relax into this enjoyable read. The characters were original, the storyline kept me entertained, and the romance between Coll and Persie kept me enthralled. I successfully navigated Wild Wicked Highlanders #2 without having previously read the first two instalments. Now that I have read #3, I would definitely be interested in going back to the beginning… soon…ish.
Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
February 10, 2021
Review originally published at Romancing Romances.
I received an eARC at no cost from the author/publisher, and I am leaving a voluntary and honest review. Thank you.
This is the last book of the Wild Wicked Highlanders series, and it brings us the story of the oldest MacTaggert brother, Coll.
Coll is a bit, like his sister Eloise likes to call him, an angry mountain. But, as most romance heroes, he has a soft heart, and is a very unselfish person.
Persephone Jones is an actress, but also more than that, and when her life is in jeopardy, Coll jumps in at the chance to help her, spend time with her, and also upset his very English mother.
What somewhat started as a pursuit of spite, turns into a lovely affair of the heart, with Coll falling in love and declaring himself to Persephone, despite his concerns regarding having here the mistress of his house, because, as he so pointedly says, “I love ye. I ken it doesn’t change a thing, you’re still an actress and I’m the oldest son of an earl (…). I have a duty, and ye have a life you’ve made for yourself. But I’ve looked for nine –weeks and longer than that in the Highlands – to find a woman with whom I’d care to spend my life, and I damned well know when I’ve found one. It’s someaught I’m willing to fight for. But not if dunnae feel the same about me.” (From Hit Me With Your Best Scot. Copyright © 2021 by Suzanne Enoch). I love this quote because it says yes, Colls loves Persephone, but he’s also giving her the opportunity to share her own feelings, no matter what they are. Because it’s only worth fighting against the world if you’re together.
We have several attempts to harm Persephone throughout the book, and I have to say, I did not see it coming until almost the end, when we found out who the person trying to harm our heroine was. Very well done plot wise.
I really enjoyed this book, it was fun to spend some time with the brothers again, and to see Lady Aldriss and Angus together for once. Maybe will get a book, or a novella about their reunion?
I also really liked that Coll admitted that Persephone absolutely loved the theatre and acting, and therefore never questioned removing her from that world after marrying her, which most of the times happens, so it was refreshing to find a hero who admitted this right away, and always said any change in profession would only be Persie’s choice.
In the end, it was an entertaining book, with a hero learning what falling in love meant for him, and what he was willing to abdicate in the name of love – because compromise, my friends, is the key to a loving, happy relationship.
I received an eARC at no cost from the author/publisher, and I am leaving a voluntary and honest review. Thank you.
This is the last book of the Wild Wicked Highlanders series, and it brings us the story of the oldest MacTaggert brother, Coll.
Coll is a bit, like his sister Eloise likes to call him, an angry mountain. But, as most romance heroes, he has a soft heart, and is a very unselfish person.
Persephone Jones is an actress, but also more than that, and when her life is in jeopardy, Coll jumps in at the chance to help her, spend time with her, and also upset his very English mother.
What somewhat started as a pursuit of spite, turns into a lovely affair of the heart, with Coll falling in love and declaring himself to Persephone, despite his concerns regarding having here the mistress of his house, because, as he so pointedly says, “I love ye. I ken it doesn’t change a thing, you’re still an actress and I’m the oldest son of an earl (…). I have a duty, and ye have a life you’ve made for yourself. But I’ve looked for nine –weeks and longer than that in the Highlands – to find a woman with whom I’d care to spend my life, and I damned well know when I’ve found one. It’s someaught I’m willing to fight for. But not if dunnae feel the same about me.” (From Hit Me With Your Best Scot. Copyright © 2021 by Suzanne Enoch). I love this quote because it says yes, Colls loves Persephone, but he’s also giving her the opportunity to share her own feelings, no matter what they are. Because it’s only worth fighting against the world if you’re together.
We have several attempts to harm Persephone throughout the book, and I have to say, I did not see it coming until almost the end, when we found out who the person trying to harm our heroine was. Very well done plot wise.
I really enjoyed this book, it was fun to spend some time with the brothers again, and to see Lady Aldriss and Angus together for once. Maybe will get a book, or a novella about their reunion?
I also really liked that Coll admitted that Persephone absolutely loved the theatre and acting, and therefore never questioned removing her from that world after marrying her, which most of the times happens, so it was refreshing to find a hero who admitted this right away, and always said any change in profession would only be Persie’s choice.
In the end, it was an entertaining book, with a hero learning what falling in love meant for him, and what he was willing to abdicate in the name of love – because compromise, my friends, is the key to a loving, happy relationship.
February 20, 2021
I’m a sucker for a Scottish Highlander romance, but this was a little different since it took place in London instead of Scotland. Three brothers are tasked with marrying English women or lose their English mother’s funding of their home, Aldriss Park. Coll’s two younger brothers have fulfilled their part of the bargain and fortunately for them fell in love (books one and two of the series) in the process. But Coll can’t find a woman and doesn’t want to. Bending to his mother’s will after she left them seventeen years back doesn’t sit well with him. I wasn’t a big fan of his mother at first, but reading on I came to like her more, and we all make mistakes, right?
Persephone Jones does what she loves best, acting, but her success brings unwanted attention and scrutiny especially since she’s trying to hide her true identity. When Coll steps up to protect Persephone from and unwanted suitor attraction sparks and ignites!
I do love me a sexy Scottish Highlander and Coll MacTaggart fit the bill nicely! Big, protective, and devilishly handsome he ticked all the boxes for me. The romance between Persephone and Coll, playful and hot, was rounded out by the search for the one trying to harm Persephone. The details of theater life were fun and interesting as well.
Hit Me With Your Best Scot was not only an eye catching title, but an engaging, fun romance. I’d love to read more by Suzanne Enoch!
A copy was kindly provided by St. Martin Press via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Persephone Jones does what she loves best, acting, but her success brings unwanted attention and scrutiny especially since she’s trying to hide her true identity. When Coll steps up to protect Persephone from and unwanted suitor attraction sparks and ignites!
I do love me a sexy Scottish Highlander and Coll MacTaggart fit the bill nicely! Big, protective, and devilishly handsome he ticked all the boxes for me. The romance between Persephone and Coll, playful and hot, was rounded out by the search for the one trying to harm Persephone. The details of theater life were fun and interesting as well.
Hit Me With Your Best Scot was not only an eye catching title, but an engaging, fun romance. I’d love to read more by Suzanne Enoch!
A copy was kindly provided by St. Martin Press via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 3, 2021
If you’re unfamiliar with Suzanne Enoch’s writing, I find that her Highlander Romance are much more rougher than her Regency Romances. I guess that’s to be expected since we’re talking about Highlanders here.
But I found that this book was a little slow for me. I wasn’t fully engaged in Coll’s character and therefore, it took me a while to get through this book. Some parts were slow and other times I wished that there was more going on. It’s definitely not a bad book, but perhaps I was just expecting more. Nevertheless, I wish that Enoch infused this series with a bit more humor like she does with her other series. Even if you have a burly Highlander, it was her charming characters that made me come back for more.
March 6, 2021
3.5-3.75 stars.
I almost paused on finishing this one, but kept going because I love historical romance. I haven’t read too many where the heroine “knows what she’s doing” ye ken what I’m saying. Call me old fashioned, but in the historical roms that I read I love my heroes large and in charge.😆 Then I remembered my all time fave heroine, Claire Fraser, was the one that popped Jamie Fraser’s cherry so I thought okay, I’ll give it a go. This book was good. I love seeing the growing chemistry between the H&H, and the originality of this story without spoiling anything. I also love when there is an element of mystery as well. All in all I would say this was a good solid read.
I almost paused on finishing this one, but kept going because I love historical romance. I haven’t read too many where the heroine “knows what she’s doing” ye ken what I’m saying. Call me old fashioned, but in the historical roms that I read I love my heroes large and in charge.😆 Then I remembered my all time fave heroine, Claire Fraser, was the one that popped Jamie Fraser’s cherry so I thought okay, I’ll give it a go. This book was good. I love seeing the growing chemistry between the H&H, and the originality of this story without spoiling anything. I also love when there is an element of mystery as well. All in all I would say this was a good solid read.
February 8, 2021
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐ (3 stars)
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖 (3 books)
Romance: 💕💕 (2 hearts)
Feels: 🦋🦋 (2 butterflies)
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡ (3 lightnings)
Emotional Depth: 💔💔 (2 hearts)
Sensuality: 🔥🔥 (2 fires)
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑 (2 peaches)
Number of Sex Scenes: 🍆🍆🍆 (3 eggplants)
(These are all based on a 1-5 scale except the eggplants that follow our eggplant chart from The Ton and the Tartans facebook group)
This is book 3 in Enoch's latest series. I do suggest you read in order, as there is a lot of family history that is explained throughout the books and why the 3 highlander siblings are in England. I didn't read book 1, but I did read book 2, and found myself wishing I had read book 1 to understand the whole arrangement made with their mother.
The MagTaggert male siblings have been living in the highlands with their father for 18 years while their mother left for England. Now, their mother has decreed that they all must wed English women before their youngest sister Eloise is married or they lose all of their money.
This story begins with Eloise's wedding to take place in a month's time. Coll's siblings Niall and Aden have already found their true love on English soil and that leaves him left to marry and secure the money he needs for his life and those that depend on him. He has fought his mother's manipulations at every turn thus far though and he doesn't plan on stopping.
Give this book a try if you are in the mood for:
-A class difference feel - Coll is a Viscount and Persephone is an actress - a match between them is one of the ultimate sins in society
-An experienced heroine - she hasn't had the best lovers, but she's had a number of protectors in her life.
-A huge 6’4” burly highlander that’s been months celibate for a hero
-A working heroine - she's been an actress for 6 years and thrives on the stage
-A touch of secret identity - the heroine is hiding who she really is
-A touch of mystery, and plenty of action with a protective hero to help the heroine survive all the attempts taken against her life.
-Light to moderate steam - it ranks as 3 eggplants, with quite a few kisses, though most of them are very short (some a sentence) and a few full sex scenes. They aren't overly explicit though.
-Hero is 29 and heroine is 28
I have read a number of Enoch's work, I believe this is my 6th book by her. Overall she has been mostly miss for me sadly, though I adored the previous book in this series (Scot Under the Covers). I do plan on trying book 1 of this series sometime.
Enoch's writing in this book was fabulous in the first half of the book. I really loved the family dynamics and was laughing out loud at much of the banter and descriptions. The tension was building and I was really loving the characters.
Then, at 30% of the book, it turned. A few things happened that completely destroyed the tension for me and it never picked back up. I stopped caring about the relationship sadly and action and chaos reigned until I just wanted it over.
To me, there were just too many attempts against the heroine's life. It was just non stop and the focus completely swung to that happening repeatedly instead of building the relationship further. I was left not convinced the characters were in true love with each other, but they definitely felt lust.
The intimate scenes left me wanting. I was not satisfied. I'm not sure what I wanted, maybe more explicitness? More emotion? I don't know. I think if you tend to like lighter steam, or don't need heavy sex scenes this won't bother you at all. Also, most of the scenes were towards the first half the book with the second half filled with action and I prefer tension building the first half and more intimacy later in the book. I want to want it! Crave it. Be dying for them to touch. To me, it was too early in this book.
Still I think these past few books I've tried from this series have had really great writing and I have been way more interested in them versus her older work I tried.
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖 (3 books)
Romance: 💕💕 (2 hearts)
Feels: 🦋🦋 (2 butterflies)
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡ (3 lightnings)
Emotional Depth: 💔💔 (2 hearts)
Sensuality: 🔥🔥 (2 fires)
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑 (2 peaches)
Number of Sex Scenes: 🍆🍆🍆 (3 eggplants)
(These are all based on a 1-5 scale except the eggplants that follow our eggplant chart from The Ton and the Tartans facebook group)
This is book 3 in Enoch's latest series. I do suggest you read in order, as there is a lot of family history that is explained throughout the books and why the 3 highlander siblings are in England. I didn't read book 1, but I did read book 2, and found myself wishing I had read book 1 to understand the whole arrangement made with their mother.
The MagTaggert male siblings have been living in the highlands with their father for 18 years while their mother left for England. Now, their mother has decreed that they all must wed English women before their youngest sister Eloise is married or they lose all of their money.
This story begins with Eloise's wedding to take place in a month's time. Coll's siblings Niall and Aden have already found their true love on English soil and that leaves him left to marry and secure the money he needs for his life and those that depend on him. He has fought his mother's manipulations at every turn thus far though and he doesn't plan on stopping.
Give this book a try if you are in the mood for:
-A class difference feel - Coll is a Viscount and Persephone is an actress - a match between them is one of the ultimate sins in society
-An experienced heroine - she hasn't had the best lovers, but she's had a number of protectors in her life.
-A huge 6’4” burly highlander that’s been months celibate for a hero
-A working heroine - she's been an actress for 6 years and thrives on the stage
-A touch of secret identity - the heroine is hiding who she really is
-A touch of mystery, and plenty of action with a protective hero to help the heroine survive all the attempts taken against her life.
-Light to moderate steam - it ranks as 3 eggplants, with quite a few kisses, though most of them are very short (some a sentence) and a few full sex scenes. They aren't overly explicit though.
-Hero is 29 and heroine is 28
I have read a number of Enoch's work, I believe this is my 6th book by her. Overall she has been mostly miss for me sadly, though I adored the previous book in this series (Scot Under the Covers). I do plan on trying book 1 of this series sometime.
Enoch's writing in this book was fabulous in the first half of the book. I really loved the family dynamics and was laughing out loud at much of the banter and descriptions. The tension was building and I was really loving the characters.
Then, at 30% of the book, it turned. A few things happened that completely destroyed the tension for me and it never picked back up. I stopped caring about the relationship sadly and action and chaos reigned until I just wanted it over.
To me, there were just too many attempts against the heroine's life. It was just non stop and the focus completely swung to that happening repeatedly instead of building the relationship further. I was left not convinced the characters were in true love with each other, but they definitely felt lust.
The intimate scenes left me wanting. I was not satisfied. I'm not sure what I wanted, maybe more explicitness? More emotion? I don't know. I think if you tend to like lighter steam, or don't need heavy sex scenes this won't bother you at all. Also, most of the scenes were towards the first half the book with the second half filled with action and I prefer tension building the first half and more intimacy later in the book. I want to want it! Crave it. Be dying for them to touch. To me, it was too early in this book.
Still I think these past few books I've tried from this series have had really great writing and I have been way more interested in them versus her older work I tried.
June 8, 2021
Hit Me With Your Best Scot by Suzanne Enoch is a 2021 St. Martin’s Paperbacks publication. This is the third standalone historical romance book in the Wild Wicked Highlanders Series. Niall (book 1) and Aden (book 2). Character arcs continue building with each book
I’m an outlier on this book; its appeal didn’t match my expectations. Perhaps staring the series on the third book didn’t help but reading more than 100 still couldn’t interest me.
Early on, it was explained that when their parents separated – some seventeen years earlier – they had an agreement, insisted upon by their mother, that their three sons would wed English women before their sister, the youngest sibling by more than 10 years, married. The brothers had been in town for two months and their sister’s wedding was set to occur in four weeks. Coll MacTaggert, the hero, must marry before she marries, or the brothers lose the funds they receive from their mother for Aldriss Park (apparently their home in Scotland).
Two things about this story bothered me. The references to marrying a bride before the deadline were seemingly never ending. Text was centered on the details of the agreement – what it included, the wording used, like English women rather than the implied English ladies. There was endless talk about whether a bride was proper or not and how much time remained until the deadline. I felt the story dragged over the 100 pages I read.
Secondly, the MCs did not appeal to me – neither of them. Coll was described as “the mountain” for his large statue who used his ‘fist as a weapon because words were overrated.’ His reaction to his mother’s match-making him with women gained him a negative reputation. Persephone Jones was an actress “ who’s broken half the lordlings’ hearts in London.” She was savvy and independent, keeping her private life a secret. These descriptions were a nice start, but their relationship was route and without chemistry. I wish more focus had been on building a connection to these characters than rehashing the bride agreement that should have been covered a plenty over the course of the initial books.
This was the first book I’ve read by this author, and it didn’t fit well with me. Shakespearian fans may find the quotes at the beginning of each chapter, references in the text, and the plays Persephone’s character performs more appealing though.
I’m an outlier on this book; its appeal didn’t match my expectations. Perhaps staring the series on the third book didn’t help but reading more than 100 still couldn’t interest me.
Early on, it was explained that when their parents separated – some seventeen years earlier – they had an agreement, insisted upon by their mother, that their three sons would wed English women before their sister, the youngest sibling by more than 10 years, married. The brothers had been in town for two months and their sister’s wedding was set to occur in four weeks. Coll MacTaggert, the hero, must marry before she marries, or the brothers lose the funds they receive from their mother for Aldriss Park (apparently their home in Scotland).
Two things about this story bothered me. The references to marrying a bride before the deadline were seemingly never ending. Text was centered on the details of the agreement – what it included, the wording used, like English women rather than the implied English ladies. There was endless talk about whether a bride was proper or not and how much time remained until the deadline. I felt the story dragged over the 100 pages I read.
Secondly, the MCs did not appeal to me – neither of them. Coll was described as “the mountain” for his large statue who used his ‘fist as a weapon because words were overrated.’ His reaction to his mother’s match-making him with women gained him a negative reputation. Persephone Jones was an actress “ who’s broken half the lordlings’ hearts in London.” She was savvy and independent, keeping her private life a secret. These descriptions were a nice start, but their relationship was route and without chemistry. I wish more focus had been on building a connection to these characters than rehashing the bride agreement that should have been covered a plenty over the course of the initial books.
This was the first book I’ve read by this author, and it didn’t fit well with me. Shakespearian fans may find the quotes at the beginning of each chapter, references in the text, and the plays Persephone’s character performs more appealing though.
Perhaps he wasn’t Macbeth, but Coll MacTaggert might have been some perfect, pagan god of the old Highlands, lit by yellow lamplight and chiseled to stunning perfection by some unknown hand.
January 19, 2021
4.25 stars - Reviewed for
Wit and Sin
Hit Me With Your Best Scot is a delightful read. I had my reservations going into the eldest MacTaggert’s story because Coll was a lot to handle in his brothers’ books, but Suzanne Enoch showed him to be a wonderful hero without changing him into someone else. Coll is blunt, brash, and brawny, his keen mind hidden beneath the exterior he uses to fool people who don’t want to look deeper. He has no patience for the rules of society and even less for his mother’s demand that he wed an Englishwoman within the next month or lose the funding for their family’s home and tenants. To stop his mother from meddling, Coll claims he’s engaged to Persephone Jones, the famous actress. He doesn’t really intend to wed her, but Persephone is the first woman who actually makes Coll want something more. Her wit matches his own and sparks fly between the two immediately. And when he finds out Persephone is in danger…well, nothing will stop him from protecting the woman who is fast capturing his heart.
Persephone is taken with Coll from the start as well. The handsome, straightforward Highlander sees the woman she is instead of the roles she plays. Persephone is a self-made woman who carries a secret and I liked her right from the start. She’s a woman who isn’t afraid of going for what she wants and desire isn’t something she’s afraid of. She and Coll are incredibly well-suited despite their different stations. I was rooting for them to get their happily ever after but first Persephone has to survive the attempts on her life. I enjoyed watching Coll learn the pieces of her past though I don’t believe the mystery is all that, well, mysterious. What I enjoyed more was the love story. Coll and Persephone fit into each other’s lives perfectly and their banter made the pages of Hit Me With Your Best Scot fly by. I enjoyed watching Coll charm her household (especially her cat, Hades). And though I felt like the climax of the book was a bit rushed, I was still so charmed by the book overall that I can forgive the hurried wrap up.
Hit Me With Your Best Scot is the third book in the Wild Wicked Highlanders series but it can easily be read as a standalone. Coll’s family members all play supporting roles and man, did Enoch make me want a novella for his parents. The Earl and Countess Aldriss are flawed characters who have definitely made bad calls as parents and as husband and wife but they have an undeniable chemistry that makes me yearn for their story. All in all, Coll and Persephone’s book was energetic, exciting, and wholly entertaining.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Hit Me With Your Best Scot is a delightful read. I had my reservations going into the eldest MacTaggert’s story because Coll was a lot to handle in his brothers’ books, but Suzanne Enoch showed him to be a wonderful hero without changing him into someone else. Coll is blunt, brash, and brawny, his keen mind hidden beneath the exterior he uses to fool people who don’t want to look deeper. He has no patience for the rules of society and even less for his mother’s demand that he wed an Englishwoman within the next month or lose the funding for their family’s home and tenants. To stop his mother from meddling, Coll claims he’s engaged to Persephone Jones, the famous actress. He doesn’t really intend to wed her, but Persephone is the first woman who actually makes Coll want something more. Her wit matches his own and sparks fly between the two immediately. And when he finds out Persephone is in danger…well, nothing will stop him from protecting the woman who is fast capturing his heart.
Persephone is taken with Coll from the start as well. The handsome, straightforward Highlander sees the woman she is instead of the roles she plays. Persephone is a self-made woman who carries a secret and I liked her right from the start. She’s a woman who isn’t afraid of going for what she wants and desire isn’t something she’s afraid of. She and Coll are incredibly well-suited despite their different stations. I was rooting for them to get their happily ever after but first Persephone has to survive the attempts on her life. I enjoyed watching Coll learn the pieces of her past though I don’t believe the mystery is all that, well, mysterious. What I enjoyed more was the love story. Coll and Persephone fit into each other’s lives perfectly and their banter made the pages of Hit Me With Your Best Scot fly by. I enjoyed watching Coll charm her household (especially her cat, Hades). And though I felt like the climax of the book was a bit rushed, I was still so charmed by the book overall that I can forgive the hurried wrap up.
Hit Me With Your Best Scot is the third book in the Wild Wicked Highlanders series but it can easily be read as a standalone. Coll’s family members all play supporting roles and man, did Enoch make me want a novella for his parents. The Earl and Countess Aldriss are flawed characters who have definitely made bad calls as parents and as husband and wife but they have an undeniable chemistry that makes me yearn for their story. All in all, Coll and Persephone’s book was energetic, exciting, and wholly entertaining.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
October 25, 2020
A fan of Suzanne Enoch and her novels, I was very interested in reading the story of Coll MacTaggert, the Viscount Glendarril’s story. Coll is the oldest of the MacTaggert highlander brothers who really does not like to be told anything that he wishes not to do…especially having leading strings around his neck by his English mother who is determined to have all of her son’s wedded to save their lands. Taking matters in his own hands, he believes he’s discovered the Englishwoman of his dreams, however is the play on words “Englishwoman or English Lady” good enough for his mother.
His challenge and match for an Englishwoman…Mrs. Persephone Jones as other women of society have steered clear of this very masculine highlander. Persie, the heroine of this story is a famous, wealthy and independent English Lady who has turned to acting to protect her life and gain her inheritance. Her plans did not start out wanting marriage and including her handsome McBeth (aka Coll), but with the sexy allure of this MacTaggert brother on her heals, it made it impossible for her to resist the sexy, Scottish rogue.
This the third book in the series, I did find it lacking a bit from the others. Although there were some twists and mystery, it was not developed enough in the story which had me rating this a 3.5/rounded to 4 instead of a spot on 4 stars. As Coll was the elder of the sons, I was looking for a much more intense romance between him and the lady of his choice…as he was so headstrong against marrying.
The book was enjoyable and the banter between the characters was refreshing in the story. I do love when the relationship and chemistry between the hero/heroine mesh well together and how the family all pulled together to protect the heroine. Highly recommend the series as a read.
Thank you Netgalley and St. Martin’s Press for this ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed are completely my own.
His challenge and match for an Englishwoman…Mrs. Persephone Jones as other women of society have steered clear of this very masculine highlander. Persie, the heroine of this story is a famous, wealthy and independent English Lady who has turned to acting to protect her life and gain her inheritance. Her plans did not start out wanting marriage and including her handsome McBeth (aka Coll), but with the sexy allure of this MacTaggert brother on her heals, it made it impossible for her to resist the sexy, Scottish rogue.
This the third book in the series, I did find it lacking a bit from the others. Although there were some twists and mystery, it was not developed enough in the story which had me rating this a 3.5/rounded to 4 instead of a spot on 4 stars. As Coll was the elder of the sons, I was looking for a much more intense romance between him and the lady of his choice…as he was so headstrong against marrying.
The book was enjoyable and the banter between the characters was refreshing in the story. I do love when the relationship and chemistry between the hero/heroine mesh well together and how the family all pulled together to protect the heroine. Highly recommend the series as a read.
Thank you Netgalley and St. Martin’s Press for this ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed are completely my own.
February 19, 2021
4.5 stars
I was completely charmed by the MacTaggert brothers in Scot Under the Covers, the second book in Suzanne Enoch’s Wild Wicked Highlanders series, and even more so in Coll and Persephone’s story, Hit Me With Your Best Scot. Forced to find an English bride or lose the financial backing of his wealthy mother, Coll is the last of the single MacTaggert brothers, and time is running out. As the eldest son and heir, he feels a responsibility, to the people who work the MacTaggert land in Scotland, so he can’t go with his preferred option, which is to refuse his mother’s directive. By chance he meets Mrs. Persephone Jones, an actress, and therefore completely unmarriageable for a Viscount and future Earl. However, Persephone is the first woman he’s met in London who holds his attention with her intelligence, humor, and beauty. Both Coll and Persephone are witty, charming, self-confident, and know what they want, as well as what they don’t from life. Their interactions were highly entertaining, and I enjoyed these two characters and their story immensely. Persephone is a bit of a mystery, a fiercely independent, private woman who makes her own way in the world while hiding her identity. I knew there was a backstory there, and although I guessed at it, it wasn’t any less enjoyable. I loved the entire family dynamic in this series—the MacTaggerts are a close, affectionate family. Francesca, the mother of the wild MacTaggert’s , is a fearsome figure who isn’t used to her orders being ignored, but I still found her to be a sympathetic character. Admittedly, it took a while. As much as I enjoyed the characters and the story, the twists and turns, and unexpected direction the story went in was what I loved most. Just when you think you know exactly what will happen next…it doesn’t. And I loved it!
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
I was completely charmed by the MacTaggert brothers in Scot Under the Covers, the second book in Suzanne Enoch’s Wild Wicked Highlanders series, and even more so in Coll and Persephone’s story, Hit Me With Your Best Scot. Forced to find an English bride or lose the financial backing of his wealthy mother, Coll is the last of the single MacTaggert brothers, and time is running out. As the eldest son and heir, he feels a responsibility, to the people who work the MacTaggert land in Scotland, so he can’t go with his preferred option, which is to refuse his mother’s directive. By chance he meets Mrs. Persephone Jones, an actress, and therefore completely unmarriageable for a Viscount and future Earl. However, Persephone is the first woman he’s met in London who holds his attention with her intelligence, humor, and beauty. Both Coll and Persephone are witty, charming, self-confident, and know what they want, as well as what they don’t from life. Their interactions were highly entertaining, and I enjoyed these two characters and their story immensely. Persephone is a bit of a mystery, a fiercely independent, private woman who makes her own way in the world while hiding her identity. I knew there was a backstory there, and although I guessed at it, it wasn’t any less enjoyable. I loved the entire family dynamic in this series—the MacTaggerts are a close, affectionate family. Francesca, the mother of the wild MacTaggert’s , is a fearsome figure who isn’t used to her orders being ignored, but I still found her to be a sympathetic character. Admittedly, it took a while. As much as I enjoyed the characters and the story, the twists and turns, and unexpected direction the story went in was what I loved most. Just when you think you know exactly what will happen next…it doesn’t. And I loved it!
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
February 12, 2021
A huge thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing an ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review.
This is a love story about finding your other half when you least expect it. It is about being brave enough in front of someone to expose your fragility.
The future of Conall's tenants depends on a successful bride hunt. But Conall is impatient with the debutantes proferred by society.
Penelope Jones loves the life she has chosen for herself. As the most successful actress on the London stage, she has financial security and independence.
From the moment their gazes meet, they can't look away. Neither has room in their agenda for complications, but love has other plans. An attempted murder results in forced proximity, despite Conall's determination to keep his emotional distance and Persephone's determination to remain unattached. When Penelope finally lets down her guard, Conall is completely entangled.
This was a beautiful story about a strong woman and a protective man, and how they find peace and belonging with each other.
This is a love story about finding your other half when you least expect it. It is about being brave enough in front of someone to expose your fragility.
The future of Conall's tenants depends on a successful bride hunt. But Conall is impatient with the debutantes proferred by society.
Penelope Jones loves the life she has chosen for herself. As the most successful actress on the London stage, she has financial security and independence.
From the moment their gazes meet, they can't look away. Neither has room in their agenda for complications, but love has other plans. An attempted murder results in forced proximity, despite Conall's determination to keep his emotional distance and Persephone's determination to remain unattached. When Penelope finally lets down her guard, Conall is completely entangled.
This was a beautiful story about a strong woman and a protective man, and how they find peace and belonging with each other.
January 28, 2021
Series: Wild Wicked Highlanders #3
Publication Date: 2/9/21
Number of Pages: 336
Ah! I’ve been waiting for Coll’s book for what seems like FOREVER. It was worth the wait! You could absolutely feel Coll’s frustration and anger at his parents (especially his mother) – it was rolling off him in clouds. To truly understand Coll’s total frustration, you should read at least the first book in the series, It's Getting Scot in Here. If you haven’t read that book, I’ll give you a little of the background for the series.
Angus MacTaggert, Earl Aldriss, met and married Francesca Oswell in a whirlwind. It was a love match and a practical match as well. Aldriss needed money and the Oswells had it in droves. Francesca’s father was uneasy that the courtship and marriage happened so fast, so he assured that the money always remained in Francesca’s hands – along with the property she received from the Oswell estate. Angus and Francesca were two of the most stubborn and pig-headed people you’ll ever meet – neither had a conciliatory bone in their bodies. She wanted to live in England for part of the year and he wouldn’t hear of it. So, after the birth of their fourth child, Eloise, Francesca took Eloise and left Scotland, Angus, and their three sons – Coll, Aden, and Niall. Before she left though, she made Angus sign an agreement that their three sons would marry English women before Eloise married. After seventeen years of not hearing a word from their mother – and their father never telling them about the agreement – the now grown brothers were shocked to learn that in order to have the funds to maintain the Aldriss estate and its tenants, they were expected to marry English women – because Eloise was now betrothed. To say that didn’t go well was putting it mildly. There was so very much anger from the sons – who was this woman who had abandoned them, didn’t love or care for them – and now she has the power to control their lives. Coll had the most anger because he was the oldest and remembered his mother the best – and he remembered the deep pain her rejection and abandonment of them caused. Coll won’t go down easily!
Coll MacTaggert, Viscount Glendarril, has definitely not made a good impression on the ton. Inside, Coll is an honorable, caring, loyal, intelligent man, but all he has shown the ton is anger – basically his neanderthal side. You can’t blame him. How would you feel if the parent who abandoned and rejected you when you were twelve years old suddenly summoned you from Scotland to London to marry an English woman you’d never met and didn’t want? He could have refused, but if he did, all of the funding to support Aldriss Park would go away and his tenants and others would starve and be forced to leave Scotland for America or other places. Yes, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree because Coll inherited all of the stubbornness both of his parents had. What he didn’t inherit though was their intractability. Coll was able to see another’s point of view and to accommodate those views. Thank Goodness! It is easy to think Coll is just a jerk, but he isn’t. He carries deep scars from his mother’s abandonment and those come out as anger. Coll knows he has to marry an English woman, but he’ll choose his own NOT the insipid debutantes his mother keeps throwing at him. When she tries to trap him into an evening at the theater with not one but two potential brides, Coll flees his mother’s theater box and ends up deep inside the bowels of the theater, he is escaping – again. That is when he meets a woman who doesn’t know he has a title – and doesn’t care. She isn’t afraid of him and stands toe-to-toe with him. Oh! My! He knows he can’t wed an actress – but if he could …
Mrs. Persephone Jones is the darling of London’s theater. Her performances are always sell-outs and everybody admires her abilities. She’s always surrounded by men – rich, titled, men – who want to be her ‘protector’ and expect her to acquiesce. One evening after a performance, she saw a huge Highlander behind the stage. He wasn’t frightening – she’d seen frightening and he wasn’t it. When he rescued her from one of her would-be protectors later, she was grateful. Then, when he cleared a path for her as she was leaving the theater, she was even more grateful. She appreciated him, but that was as far as it would ever go. Or, so she thought.
I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Coll and Persephone dance around each other – and learning to love each other. I loved seeing Coll’s perceptive views of Persephone – because he knew there was more to her than it seemed. Then, when she was in danger, he’d move heaven and earth to keep her safe.
I am going to assume that there will be another book in the series – maybe the parents getting their second-chance-romance. The reason I’m going to assume that is that this book would be a terrible wrap-up for the series. Too many things left unfinished – undone. If it were the last book in the series, it should definitely have had either another couple of chapters to wrap things up – or an epilogue. So, I won’t downgrade it in stars assuming that all will be wrapped up in another book.
I definitely enjoyed the read and I hope you will as well. It is excellently written and excellently executed. If by chance, you are wondering why Coll and his brothers hate the English so much, it is because their mother is English AND their father has spent the last seventeen years telling them how awful the English are and reminding them that if they need an example, all they have to do is to look at their mother. Anyway, it is a great read and I’m looking forward to at least one more book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Publication Date: 2/9/21
Number of Pages: 336
Ah! I’ve been waiting for Coll’s book for what seems like FOREVER. It was worth the wait! You could absolutely feel Coll’s frustration and anger at his parents (especially his mother) – it was rolling off him in clouds. To truly understand Coll’s total frustration, you should read at least the first book in the series, It's Getting Scot in Here. If you haven’t read that book, I’ll give you a little of the background for the series.
Angus MacTaggert, Earl Aldriss, met and married Francesca Oswell in a whirlwind. It was a love match and a practical match as well. Aldriss needed money and the Oswells had it in droves. Francesca’s father was uneasy that the courtship and marriage happened so fast, so he assured that the money always remained in Francesca’s hands – along with the property she received from the Oswell estate. Angus and Francesca were two of the most stubborn and pig-headed people you’ll ever meet – neither had a conciliatory bone in their bodies. She wanted to live in England for part of the year and he wouldn’t hear of it. So, after the birth of their fourth child, Eloise, Francesca took Eloise and left Scotland, Angus, and their three sons – Coll, Aden, and Niall. Before she left though, she made Angus sign an agreement that their three sons would marry English women before Eloise married. After seventeen years of not hearing a word from their mother – and their father never telling them about the agreement – the now grown brothers were shocked to learn that in order to have the funds to maintain the Aldriss estate and its tenants, they were expected to marry English women – because Eloise was now betrothed. To say that didn’t go well was putting it mildly. There was so very much anger from the sons – who was this woman who had abandoned them, didn’t love or care for them – and now she has the power to control their lives. Coll had the most anger because he was the oldest and remembered his mother the best – and he remembered the deep pain her rejection and abandonment of them caused. Coll won’t go down easily!
Coll MacTaggert, Viscount Glendarril, has definitely not made a good impression on the ton. Inside, Coll is an honorable, caring, loyal, intelligent man, but all he has shown the ton is anger – basically his neanderthal side. You can’t blame him. How would you feel if the parent who abandoned and rejected you when you were twelve years old suddenly summoned you from Scotland to London to marry an English woman you’d never met and didn’t want? He could have refused, but if he did, all of the funding to support Aldriss Park would go away and his tenants and others would starve and be forced to leave Scotland for America or other places. Yes, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree because Coll inherited all of the stubbornness both of his parents had. What he didn’t inherit though was their intractability. Coll was able to see another’s point of view and to accommodate those views. Thank Goodness! It is easy to think Coll is just a jerk, but he isn’t. He carries deep scars from his mother’s abandonment and those come out as anger. Coll knows he has to marry an English woman, but he’ll choose his own NOT the insipid debutantes his mother keeps throwing at him. When she tries to trap him into an evening at the theater with not one but two potential brides, Coll flees his mother’s theater box and ends up deep inside the bowels of the theater, he is escaping – again. That is when he meets a woman who doesn’t know he has a title – and doesn’t care. She isn’t afraid of him and stands toe-to-toe with him. Oh! My! He knows he can’t wed an actress – but if he could …
Mrs. Persephone Jones is the darling of London’s theater. Her performances are always sell-outs and everybody admires her abilities. She’s always surrounded by men – rich, titled, men – who want to be her ‘protector’ and expect her to acquiesce. One evening after a performance, she saw a huge Highlander behind the stage. He wasn’t frightening – she’d seen frightening and he wasn’t it. When he rescued her from one of her would-be protectors later, she was grateful. Then, when he cleared a path for her as she was leaving the theater, she was even more grateful. She appreciated him, but that was as far as it would ever go. Or, so she thought.
I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Coll and Persephone dance around each other – and learning to love each other. I loved seeing Coll’s perceptive views of Persephone – because he knew there was more to her than it seemed. Then, when she was in danger, he’d move heaven and earth to keep her safe.
I am going to assume that there will be another book in the series – maybe the parents getting their second-chance-romance. The reason I’m going to assume that is that this book would be a terrible wrap-up for the series. Too many things left unfinished – undone. If it were the last book in the series, it should definitely have had either another couple of chapters to wrap things up – or an epilogue. So, I won’t downgrade it in stars assuming that all will be wrapped up in another book.
I definitely enjoyed the read and I hope you will as well. It is excellently written and excellently executed. If by chance, you are wondering why Coll and his brothers hate the English so much, it is because their mother is English AND their father has spent the last seventeen years telling them how awful the English are and reminding them that if they need an example, all they have to do is to look at their mother. Anyway, it is a great read and I’m looking forward to at least one more book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 21, 2021
Coll needs a wife, but it is hard. English lasses faint at the sight of him, and if they do stay he is most likely to say something to cause offense. And he have to marry because else his mother will hold back the money he needs to keep his estate running.
In comes Persephone Jones, well known actress, and certainly not the English Lady Coll's mother wants him to marry. But they run across each other, sparks fly, and some things you can't hide from.
Sure I would have wanted Coll to understand at once that he should just marry her, and not be all, but she is an actress! But hey, his mother is scary so...
And there is danger too, someone is after Persephone
Danger, romance and happy endings. What more could one ask for! I enjoyed it (though I still think his sister should marry someone else ;)
I really enjoyed this narrator. She had a nice Scottish brogue, and I really felt like I got to know all the characters.
In comes Persephone Jones, well known actress, and certainly not the English Lady Coll's mother wants him to marry. But they run across each other, sparks fly, and some things you can't hide from.
Sure I would have wanted Coll to understand at once that he should just marry her, and not be all, but she is an actress! But hey, his mother is scary so...
And there is danger too, someone is after Persephone
Danger, romance and happy endings. What more could one ask for! I enjoyed it (though I still think his sister should marry someone else ;)
I really enjoyed this narrator. She had a nice Scottish brogue, and I really felt like I got to know all the characters.
October 23, 2022
4.5 stars rounded up
Brawny Highlander Coll MacTaggert is accustomed to being useful and making his own decisions. He may be titled Viscount Glendarril but he’ snot interested in the opinions of the ton, even though his English mother’s edict demands he marry into it if he wants to maintain their beloved estate’s funding. Coll is determined to choose his own wife and he may have just stumbled onto his ideal bride, though his mother is sure to disapprove.
Persephone Jones has wealth, intelligence, a good deal of fame, and no interest in giving up her independence for marriage. The fact that Coll sees right through her disguises and seems to understand her better than she does herself is both intriguing and terrifying. But it seems someone is trying to kill her because of the wealth she could still inherit from the life she left behind as the daughter of a marquess. Coll is always up for a fight and he’s not about to let anything come between him and the lady who has captured his heart.
After a slightly slow start, I really got into this book and wound up loving it. Coll was my ideal hero with his protectiveness and genuine goodness. Even his stubbornness and tendency toward temper were charming because he recognized and attempted to improve on his flaws. Temperance was a good match for him because he couldn’t walk all over her, but she was also sensible enough to know when she needed his help and didn’t cling to her independence simply to preserve her pride. I loved that these two didn’t play games but instead were open and honest about their feelings and decided to fight to be together despite the factors set against them. The maturity with which they conducted their relationship was refreshing and made this a delight to read and they were both so sweet to each other that I found myself rereading passages.
I also really enjoyed seeing the MacTaggart family’s loyalty and unity at work and how they rallied around Coll and Temperance when needed. My only complaint is that I would’ve loved to see an epilogue detailing what exactly happened to the villain element here as that’s not mentioned after the catch is made. I also think seeing the wedding of at least Coll and Temperance and maybe Eloise and Matthew as well would’ve made the ending feel a bit more complete, especially as it was the conclusion of the series. I could’ve also done with a bit more apology from and redemption for Francesca and maybe some elaboration on where her relationship with Angus stood. Nevertheless, I still greatly enjoyed this one and it is my favorite of the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced review of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Brawny Highlander Coll MacTaggert is accustomed to being useful and making his own decisions. He may be titled Viscount Glendarril but he’ snot interested in the opinions of the ton, even though his English mother’s edict demands he marry into it if he wants to maintain their beloved estate’s funding. Coll is determined to choose his own wife and he may have just stumbled onto his ideal bride, though his mother is sure to disapprove.
Persephone Jones has wealth, intelligence, a good deal of fame, and no interest in giving up her independence for marriage. The fact that Coll sees right through her disguises and seems to understand her better than she does herself is both intriguing and terrifying. But it seems someone is trying to kill her because of the wealth she could still inherit from the life she left behind as the daughter of a marquess. Coll is always up for a fight and he’s not about to let anything come between him and the lady who has captured his heart.
After a slightly slow start, I really got into this book and wound up loving it. Coll was my ideal hero with his protectiveness and genuine goodness. Even his stubbornness and tendency toward temper were charming because he recognized and attempted to improve on his flaws. Temperance was a good match for him because he couldn’t walk all over her, but she was also sensible enough to know when she needed his help and didn’t cling to her independence simply to preserve her pride. I loved that these two didn’t play games but instead were open and honest about their feelings and decided to fight to be together despite the factors set against them. The maturity with which they conducted their relationship was refreshing and made this a delight to read and they were both so sweet to each other that I found myself rereading passages.
I also really enjoyed seeing the MacTaggart family’s loyalty and unity at work and how they rallied around Coll and Temperance when needed. My only complaint is that I would’ve loved to see an epilogue detailing what exactly happened to the villain element here as that’s not mentioned after the catch is made. I also think seeing the wedding of at least Coll and Temperance and maybe Eloise and Matthew as well would’ve made the ending feel a bit more complete, especially as it was the conclusion of the series. I could’ve also done with a bit more apology from and redemption for Francesca and maybe some elaboration on where her relationship with Angus stood. Nevertheless, I still greatly enjoyed this one and it is my favorite of the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced review of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
February 9, 2021
Coll MacTaggert is a Scotsman not to be messed with. He has a fiery temper and the physique to follow through and he's almost always looking for a fight. His titled English mother wants to see him married as soon as possible.
He meets Persephone, famous actress and all around man killer, and decides that SHE is the woman he wants to wed. But she has promised never to marry, and certainly never to a hot headed Scot. When Coll finds out Persephobe's secret he determines to save her from someone set on killing her.
This is my second Suzanne Enoch book and there was a lot to like about this story. Coll is a delightful Scottish hero, very masculine and alpha but with a heart of gold. And Persephone is a strong woman who won't let any man ruin her plans.
But this definitely felt a little zany, a lot of antics thrown into the plot that didn't leave much room for subtlety. And the romance felt a bit rushed without as much anticipation as I wanted.
And Enoch's writing style is a bit hard for me, I'm not a huge fan of writing a Scottish brogue phonetically for the entire course of the book.
This was a fun read, but not without its flaws. If you're looking for a fast paced, Scottish romance with a strong heroine and some zany plot points this might be the book for you.
Arc provided by Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
He meets Persephone, famous actress and all around man killer, and decides that SHE is the woman he wants to wed. But she has promised never to marry, and certainly never to a hot headed Scot. When Coll finds out Persephobe's secret he determines to save her from someone set on killing her.
This is my second Suzanne Enoch book and there was a lot to like about this story. Coll is a delightful Scottish hero, very masculine and alpha but with a heart of gold. And Persephone is a strong woman who won't let any man ruin her plans.
But this definitely felt a little zany, a lot of antics thrown into the plot that didn't leave much room for subtlety. And the romance felt a bit rushed without as much anticipation as I wanted.
And Enoch's writing style is a bit hard for me, I'm not a huge fan of writing a Scottish brogue phonetically for the entire course of the book.
This was a fun read, but not without its flaws. If you're looking for a fast paced, Scottish romance with a strong heroine and some zany plot points this might be the book for you.
Arc provided by Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
February 4, 2021
I have enjoyed this series and I've been eagerly waiting for Coll's book.
I love love loved Persephone. She's smart and sassy and I loved that she was open when needed to be. Coll has been a gruff character throughout the series and this was no exception. Persephone and Coll have instant chemistry and I enjoyed reading their relationship grow and change. Of course it's always fun to see the other couples and Francesca.
Plot wise, it was good. The tension wasn't as prominent as I expected it to be (especially when attempted murder is the premise), but it did set up a lot of "I need to protect you so stay close to me" moments. I was basically beside myself to see Coll be a gooey marshmallow when it came to Persephone -- or at least his version of it. The two of them had loads of honest conversations and that's what I'm always here for.
Overall, this was a fun series filled with characters who were easy to root for. I wish there would have been more of an epilogue or a future-take, but I'll just be over here hoping for more from this family.
**Huge thanks to St. Martin's Press for providing the arc free of charge**
I love love loved Persephone. She's smart and sassy and I loved that she was open when needed to be. Coll has been a gruff character throughout the series and this was no exception. Persephone and Coll have instant chemistry and I enjoyed reading their relationship grow and change. Of course it's always fun to see the other couples and Francesca.
Plot wise, it was good. The tension wasn't as prominent as I expected it to be (especially when attempted murder is the premise), but it did set up a lot of "I need to protect you so stay close to me" moments. I was basically beside myself to see Coll be a gooey marshmallow when it came to Persephone -- or at least his version of it. The two of them had loads of honest conversations and that's what I'm always here for.
Overall, this was a fun series filled with characters who were easy to root for. I wish there would have been more of an epilogue or a future-take, but I'll just be over here hoping for more from this family.
**Huge thanks to St. Martin's Press for providing the arc free of charge**
February 8, 2021
Coll, Viscount Glendarril was a larger than life character. At first it seemed as though he let his physical appearance do the talking but he was actually a very intelligent man. Persephone Jones was an intelligent woman, who was a superb actress. She was also valued her independence. They did have a very strong attraction but Coll’s family wouldn’t want him to marry an actress. Coll did need to marry to save his tenants. This story moved along at a good pace, it had amusing banter, dangerous events and engaging characters. A very entertaining read that I thoroughly enjoyed. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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