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The Harp and the Sea
In 1605, Robbie Elliot—a Reiver and musician from the Scottish borders—nearly went to the gallows. The Witch of the Hermitage saved him with a ruse, but weeks later, she cursed him to an ethereal existence in the sea. He has seven chances to come alive, come ashore, and find true love. For over a century, Robbie’s been lost to that magic; six times love has failed. When he washes ashore on the Isle of Skye in 1745, he’s arrived at his last chance at love, his last chance at life.
Highland warrior Ian MacDonald came to Skye for loyalty and rebellion. He’s lost once at love, and stands as an outsider in his own clan. When Ian’s uncle and laird sends him to lonely Skye to hide and protect treasure meant for Bonnie Prince Charlie’s coffers, he resigns himself to a solitary life—his only companion the eternal sea. Lonely doldrums transform into romance and mystery when the tide brings beautiful Robbie Elliot and his broken harp ashore.
A curse dogs them, enemies hunt them, and war looms over their lives. Robbie and Ian will fight with love, will, and the sword. But without the help of magic and ancient gods, will it be enough to win them a future together?
Highland warrior Ian MacDonald came to Skye for loyalty and rebellion. He’s lost once at love, and stands as an outsider in his own clan. When Ian’s uncle and laird sends him to lonely Skye to hide and protect treasure meant for Bonnie Prince Charlie’s coffers, he resigns himself to a solitary life—his only companion the eternal sea. Lonely doldrums transform into romance and mystery when the tide brings beautiful Robbie Elliot and his broken harp ashore.
A curse dogs them, enemies hunt them, and war looms over their lives. Robbie and Ian will fight with love, will, and the sword. But without the help of magic and ancient gods, will it be enough to win them a future together?
ebook
Published July 27, 2020
38 people want to read
About the author
Lou Sylvre
29 books129 followersLou Sylvre loves stories and likes to conjure them into books. When the stories are about love, the sweethearts on her pages are most often men who end up loving each other and likely saving each other from unspeakable danger. As if you’d want to know more, she’ll happily tell you that she is a proudly bisexual woman—a mother, grandmother, and cat-herder (with a dog). Her love of languages is no doubt a result of her interestingly mixed up heritage. Her over-the-top love of her rainbow-colored demi-tasse set cannot be adequately explained. She also loves music coffee, chocolate, and wild roses. As a writer, she works closely with lead cat assistant Boudreau St. Clair. Lou grew up in the Los Angeles area, where barefoot was always best for a kid. She now lives in the lush, rainy part of the Pacific Northwest, and hearing from a reader unfailingly brightens the dismal weather. Her email is louwrites@rainbowgate.com.
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https://www.facebook.com/sylvrebarwel...
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(and she’s pretty sure she still has a tumblr account…)
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
July 26, 2020
The authors meld Scottish history circa 1745 and the Jacobite Rebellion with a background of Celtic fantasy. Ian, a burly red-headed Highlander, is sent by his clan's Laird to the Isle of Skye to hide a fortune in gems (intended to fund the rebellion) and keep it safe on the remote island.
In 1605, Robbie was cursed by a witch and doomed to a half-life of mystical sleep on a spectral boat that touches land about every 20 years or so. We gradually learn about the nature of the witches' curse and how the elements of the harp and the boat work together. And we discover that Robbie initially had seven chances to finds true love and be released from the curse, but has not found a suitable candidate (i.e. a man instead of a woman) until he washes ashore on Skye.
Ian and Robbie fall into insta-love very quickly but IMHO their compatibility is very lightly fleshed out in the story and we do not really get a sense of their dynamic and what their future could hold in a setting where same sex relationships are definitely not accepted. What we do get is a lot of logistics involving Ian and Robbie hiding from men seeking the jewels (and ending up sleeping in various caves and places around the island) and this considerably slowed down the overall pace of the book. Even the final scenes are burdened with the organization of the battle, Robbie's plans to help and a very long recounting of the results.
While I like the foundation of the story and the combination of history and fantasy, the pace of the book and the lengthy cat and mouse escapades around the island really sapped the strength of the story for me. 3 stars for "The Harp and the Sea" but I would recommend readers check out this book if they have an interest in Celtic fantasy.
I received an ARC from the Publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
In 1605, Robbie was cursed by a witch and doomed to a half-life of mystical sleep on a spectral boat that touches land about every 20 years or so. We gradually learn about the nature of the witches' curse and how the elements of the harp and the boat work together. And we discover that Robbie initially had seven chances to finds true love and be released from the curse, but has not found a suitable candidate (i.e. a man instead of a woman) until he washes ashore on Skye.
Ian and Robbie fall into insta-love very quickly but IMHO their compatibility is very lightly fleshed out in the story and we do not really get a sense of their dynamic and what their future could hold in a setting where same sex relationships are definitely not accepted. What we do get is a lot of logistics involving Ian and Robbie hiding from men seeking the jewels (and ending up sleeping in various caves and places around the island) and this considerably slowed down the overall pace of the book. Even the final scenes are burdened with the organization of the battle, Robbie's plans to help and a very long recounting of the results.
While I like the foundation of the story and the combination of history and fantasy, the pace of the book and the lengthy cat and mouse escapades around the island really sapped the strength of the story for me. 3 stars for "The Harp and the Sea" but I would recommend readers check out this book if they have an interest in Celtic fantasy.
I received an ARC from the Publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
July 27, 2020
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK FOR MY READING PLEASURE **
Copy received through Netgalley
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
~
The Harp and the Sea (Magic in the Isles, Book 1)
by Lou Sylvre and Anne Barwell
★★★★☆
308 Pages
POV: 3rd person, dual POV
Genre: LGBT, Historical, Jacobite, Fantasy, Magic/Curse, Action
Content Warning: graphic violence and battle scenes, implied off-page assault
The Harp and the Sea is the first intriguing novel in the Magic in the Isles series. Full of mystery, action, romance and adventure, it has everything you could hope for in a historical novel. Historical accuracy, with a touch of fantasy, and characters you fall in love with instantly, allow you to delve headlong into this long-ago period of Scottish History that touched this Scottish lassie's heart.
CHARACTERS
From page one, Robbie was a young, sweet lad of the Borders, caught up in political turmoil, jostling between two rulers and trying desperately to find a way to live while being true to his heritage.
Then Ian came along – a Highlander, and a Jacobite rebel – as a big, strapping lad who had a vital task to complete for his uncle and his country.
PLOT
The minute I read the blurb for this book, I had to have it. I'm Scottish to my bones and proud of it, and I love reading well-written accounts of my heritage. And that's exactly what this was. Unlike some books I've read (and loathed for their mistakes!) this one is so steeped in historical accuracy and attention to detail that I got lost in a world that is both mine and so long ago in my history that it's almost forgotten.
Reading these characters, visiting the isles of Scotland, and taking this journey with Robbie and Ian felt like a homecoming from long ago. The accents were on point. Not your stereotypical “och, th' noo” but true Scots, and appropriate for the characters origins, e.g. Ian's accent being more brogue and thick than Robbie's, as they're from two different ends of the country. The recognition that not every Scot knows Gaelic, the old songs, the tartan/plaid, the clans and the deep love we have for our heritage and our fierce fight for independence that goes back to our very roots in the dirt of this land, is everything I could have hoped for and more.
Yet, the authors didn't shy away from the unfortunate truth of this country's past, either. The fact that so many of our hard-won battles and bloody efforts were ruined by political divide, that we fought more amongst ourselves than with outsiders, and that most of our efforts to save this country from infiltration were sabotages from inside our own walls. They did a great job of capturing the clan squabbles, the internal conflict, and the constant threat of outside forces.
The fact the story included fantasy elements – magic and a curse – only made it better. King James was obsessed with the occult, so it made complete sense that he would have a witch on hand to protect him. It made sense that witch would sense another with magical ability and try to protect him. It made sense that, (though I didn't buy the reason for it), she would curse someone who had wronged her.
Historical issues covered:
The Scottish Border Marches
Bonnie Prince Charlie
Jacobite Rebellion
ISSUES
There are quite a few inconsistencies within the story. As this is an ARC, I'm not counting these towards my rating, because I honestly feel that they're little niggly things that will be picked up in final edits. For instances:
Ian draws his dirk, yet a few pages before (without having moved location) he reaches for it and realises he left it behind.
It states “for more than two centuries” despite only 139/140 years passing between Robbie being cursed and appearing in Ian's timeline.
In centuries – again, implies more than one.
An entire sentence is repeated in Chapter 11
The claim the jewels hidden in Ian's sporran “weigh a hell of a bloody lot” when carried in Robbie's breeks (trousers). However, anything that can fit in a sporran – which the authors admit later is only the size of two fists – can't possible weigh enough for Ian to struggle carrying Robbie. It's not physically possible.
It's claimed late in the story that Robbie was cursed on the Firth of Forth, but it was actually the river Eden. The river Eden is actually part of the Solway Forth, not the Firth of Forth, so this is a geographical issue. (The Firth of Forth is on the East, and the river Eden on the West)
because the size of harp is never specified – the size of a forearm, the size of a man, etc – it's really hard to picture it being lugged about by Robbie like a small backpack. It's either on his back, or tucked under his arm.
There are three big issues, that meant I couldn't give this novel the 5* it truly deserves. Part of me was desperate to find a way to make it happen, but I can't ignore the plotting issues that got in the way.
Issue 1: the Parts of the novel
The plot is divided into 2 parts.
For me, the Part 1 and 2 aspect would have made more sense if it divided the two separate timelines, e.g. Robbie's initial life in 1605, and Ian's appearance in 1744. But, in this case, we get Robbie's 1605 life until 8%, then it switches to Ian's POV in 1744, and we continue to get Ian's POV for another 8%.
There were huge timeline/plot aspects that could have better utilised a Part divide.
The fact the book never encounters another Part divide after Part 2 also makes it feel obsolete.
Because of this odd Part divide, the timeline faces issues. For example, Chapter 1 begins the story in 1605, Chapter 3 jumps ahead to 1744, Chapter 4 jumps to 1745, and then Chapter 5 (the beginning of Part 2) jumps to a few months ahead. Because of the huge timeline jump – 139 years – it would have made more sense for Part 2 to begin with Ian's POV in 1744, the year the rest of the novel takes place.
Issue 2: the curse
The blurb is misleading. It states: “He has seven chances to come alive, come ashore, and find true love. For over a century, Robbie’s been lost to that magic; six times love has failed.”
Now: 1) nowhere in the story are we told he has 7 chances to come ashore again. 2) nowhere it is mentioned that “six times love has failed”. In fact, the story mentions Ian is the first man to EVER find the harp: “For the first time in so many that he'd lost count, a man had found harp.” Which means Robbie couldn't have failed to find love before, because there was never a man for him to fall in love with, until now.
The idea of 7 chances and 6 failed loves is never mentioned IN the story. Only in the blurb. In the story, Robbie can't remember how many times he's come ashore, but he was always found by woman, and the novel makes no implication Robbie bisexual, so there is no mention, explicit or implied, that he's ever had the opportunity to fall in love. Perhaps if Robbie had been bisexual, or had been found my men before, I might believe the fact he's had chances to fall in love but never been able to break the curse.
However, due to the lack of consistency between the blurb and the story, there is no sense of why *this* chance is so vital, until Robbie tells Ian this is his last life.
Issue 3: Melisandre
The Melisandre/Fargy aspect was rushed, slowed the pace of the story, and didn't add much we needed to see. I understand we needed to be introduced to the curse, why it was given, and that Robbie had his own magic, but the pages it took to get there felt laborious.
Fargy, as a character, didn't make any sense to the story. He was used as a tool to spare Robbie's life, making the curse necessary, but there were other (better) ways to do this. In fact, I think the story would have been stronger if the whole King James seduction had been ignored, Fargy removed, and those pages used to give more weight to Melisandre's anger at Robbie. Something more substantial would have been more believable. It's hard to imagine a woman as wily and clever as her teaching Robbie magic, knowing she'd have to kill him if he refused her. This ruthless, cunning woman cursed him for such a lame reason. If her curse was possible, why didn't she just make him forget the magic she'd taught him and make Fargy forget Robbie existed?
The fact Robbie went from a feisty, strong young warrior who was willing to die for his cause, defying a King and a witch, to becoming her puppet with blind obedience didn't sit well with me, either. Nor did it come across clearly that it was her magic making him behave that way. I loved Robbie until that part, and then he became a bit of a simpering stereotypical female lead.
I would have liked a lot more internal struggle from him, something to show that he knew he was acting out of character, but that he was unable to fight it, rather than the blatant submission and acceptance of his situation than ran throughout.
OVERALL
The Harp and the Sea took me home to my deepest Scottish roots, and reminded me equally of why I love my country so much, and how deeply we betrayed ourselves in the past. Filled to the rafters with a roaring adventure, magic, mystery, mayhem and forbidden love, it has everything you could want in a historical novel. Clans clash, a harp plays, and the sea drives two man together as often as it tries to tear them apart.
In the end, while there were inconsistencies, and some issues with the plot, I fell in love with Robbie and Ian. Their love, their adventure, and their fight for freedom, victory and the welcome of the Bonnie Prince, grabbed me and refused to let go. The book is a monster, divided between Robbie – searching for a cure to his curse, and lost in the passivitiy of its sway – and Ian – hankering for victory, but willing to put his life on the line for the man he loves.
It has bags of potential to be a re-read, permanent favourite, and I can't wait to read more in the series. I'm looking forward to getting this one in paperback, and seeing what else these two authors bring to the series.
~
Favourite Quotes
Keithen shook his head and blew out an exasperated breath, then concluded, “Live if you can, Robbie. Live for all of us.”
“Whatever fear ye found in your dreams, it’ll nae have ye whilst I hold ye.”
“I do love ye, Robbie. Know that, and take it with ye into your dreams.”
Copy received through Netgalley
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
~
The Harp and the Sea (Magic in the Isles, Book 1)
by Lou Sylvre and Anne Barwell
★★★★☆
308 Pages
POV: 3rd person, dual POV
Genre: LGBT, Historical, Jacobite, Fantasy, Magic/Curse, Action
Content Warning: graphic violence and battle scenes, implied off-page assault
The Harp and the Sea is the first intriguing novel in the Magic in the Isles series. Full of mystery, action, romance and adventure, it has everything you could hope for in a historical novel. Historical accuracy, with a touch of fantasy, and characters you fall in love with instantly, allow you to delve headlong into this long-ago period of Scottish History that touched this Scottish lassie's heart.
CHARACTERS
From page one, Robbie was a young, sweet lad of the Borders, caught up in political turmoil, jostling between two rulers and trying desperately to find a way to live while being true to his heritage.
Then Ian came along – a Highlander, and a Jacobite rebel – as a big, strapping lad who had a vital task to complete for his uncle and his country.
PLOT
The minute I read the blurb for this book, I had to have it. I'm Scottish to my bones and proud of it, and I love reading well-written accounts of my heritage. And that's exactly what this was. Unlike some books I've read (and loathed for their mistakes!) this one is so steeped in historical accuracy and attention to detail that I got lost in a world that is both mine and so long ago in my history that it's almost forgotten.
Reading these characters, visiting the isles of Scotland, and taking this journey with Robbie and Ian felt like a homecoming from long ago. The accents were on point. Not your stereotypical “och, th' noo” but true Scots, and appropriate for the characters origins, e.g. Ian's accent being more brogue and thick than Robbie's, as they're from two different ends of the country. The recognition that not every Scot knows Gaelic, the old songs, the tartan/plaid, the clans and the deep love we have for our heritage and our fierce fight for independence that goes back to our very roots in the dirt of this land, is everything I could have hoped for and more.
Yet, the authors didn't shy away from the unfortunate truth of this country's past, either. The fact that so many of our hard-won battles and bloody efforts were ruined by political divide, that we fought more amongst ourselves than with outsiders, and that most of our efforts to save this country from infiltration were sabotages from inside our own walls. They did a great job of capturing the clan squabbles, the internal conflict, and the constant threat of outside forces.
The fact the story included fantasy elements – magic and a curse – only made it better. King James was obsessed with the occult, so it made complete sense that he would have a witch on hand to protect him. It made sense that witch would sense another with magical ability and try to protect him. It made sense that, (though I didn't buy the reason for it), she would curse someone who had wronged her.
Historical issues covered:
The Scottish Border Marches
Bonnie Prince Charlie
Jacobite Rebellion
ISSUES
There are quite a few inconsistencies within the story. As this is an ARC, I'm not counting these towards my rating, because I honestly feel that they're little niggly things that will be picked up in final edits. For instances:
Ian draws his dirk, yet a few pages before (without having moved location) he reaches for it and realises he left it behind.
It states “for more than two centuries” despite only 139/140 years passing between Robbie being cursed and appearing in Ian's timeline.
In centuries – again, implies more than one.
An entire sentence is repeated in Chapter 11
The claim the jewels hidden in Ian's sporran “weigh a hell of a bloody lot” when carried in Robbie's breeks (trousers). However, anything that can fit in a sporran – which the authors admit later is only the size of two fists – can't possible weigh enough for Ian to struggle carrying Robbie. It's not physically possible.
It's claimed late in the story that Robbie was cursed on the Firth of Forth, but it was actually the river Eden. The river Eden is actually part of the Solway Forth, not the Firth of Forth, so this is a geographical issue. (The Firth of Forth is on the East, and the river Eden on the West)
because the size of harp is never specified – the size of a forearm, the size of a man, etc – it's really hard to picture it being lugged about by Robbie like a small backpack. It's either on his back, or tucked under his arm.
There are three big issues, that meant I couldn't give this novel the 5* it truly deserves. Part of me was desperate to find a way to make it happen, but I can't ignore the plotting issues that got in the way.
Issue 1: the Parts of the novel
The plot is divided into 2 parts.
For me, the Part 1 and 2 aspect would have made more sense if it divided the two separate timelines, e.g. Robbie's initial life in 1605, and Ian's appearance in 1744. But, in this case, we get Robbie's 1605 life until 8%, then it switches to Ian's POV in 1744, and we continue to get Ian's POV for another 8%.
There were huge timeline/plot aspects that could have better utilised a Part divide.
The fact the book never encounters another Part divide after Part 2 also makes it feel obsolete.
Because of this odd Part divide, the timeline faces issues. For example, Chapter 1 begins the story in 1605, Chapter 3 jumps ahead to 1744, Chapter 4 jumps to 1745, and then Chapter 5 (the beginning of Part 2) jumps to a few months ahead. Because of the huge timeline jump – 139 years – it would have made more sense for Part 2 to begin with Ian's POV in 1744, the year the rest of the novel takes place.
Issue 2: the curse
The blurb is misleading. It states: “He has seven chances to come alive, come ashore, and find true love. For over a century, Robbie’s been lost to that magic; six times love has failed.”
Now: 1) nowhere in the story are we told he has 7 chances to come ashore again. 2) nowhere it is mentioned that “six times love has failed”. In fact, the story mentions Ian is the first man to EVER find the harp: “For the first time in so many that he'd lost count, a man had found harp.” Which means Robbie couldn't have failed to find love before, because there was never a man for him to fall in love with, until now.
The idea of 7 chances and 6 failed loves is never mentioned IN the story. Only in the blurb. In the story, Robbie can't remember how many times he's come ashore, but he was always found by woman, and the novel makes no implication Robbie bisexual, so there is no mention, explicit or implied, that he's ever had the opportunity to fall in love. Perhaps if Robbie had been bisexual, or had been found my men before, I might believe the fact he's had chances to fall in love but never been able to break the curse.
However, due to the lack of consistency between the blurb and the story, there is no sense of why *this* chance is so vital, until Robbie tells Ian this is his last life.
Issue 3: Melisandre
The Melisandre/Fargy aspect was rushed, slowed the pace of the story, and didn't add much we needed to see. I understand we needed to be introduced to the curse, why it was given, and that Robbie had his own magic, but the pages it took to get there felt laborious.
Fargy, as a character, didn't make any sense to the story. He was used as a tool to spare Robbie's life, making the curse necessary, but there were other (better) ways to do this. In fact, I think the story would have been stronger if the whole King James seduction had been ignored, Fargy removed, and those pages used to give more weight to Melisandre's anger at Robbie. Something more substantial would have been more believable. It's hard to imagine a woman as wily and clever as her teaching Robbie magic, knowing she'd have to kill him if he refused her. This ruthless, cunning woman cursed him for such a lame reason. If her curse was possible, why didn't she just make him forget the magic she'd taught him and make Fargy forget Robbie existed?
The fact Robbie went from a feisty, strong young warrior who was willing to die for his cause, defying a King and a witch, to becoming her puppet with blind obedience didn't sit well with me, either. Nor did it come across clearly that it was her magic making him behave that way. I loved Robbie until that part, and then he became a bit of a simpering stereotypical female lead.
I would have liked a lot more internal struggle from him, something to show that he knew he was acting out of character, but that he was unable to fight it, rather than the blatant submission and acceptance of his situation than ran throughout.
OVERALL
The Harp and the Sea took me home to my deepest Scottish roots, and reminded me equally of why I love my country so much, and how deeply we betrayed ourselves in the past. Filled to the rafters with a roaring adventure, magic, mystery, mayhem and forbidden love, it has everything you could want in a historical novel. Clans clash, a harp plays, and the sea drives two man together as often as it tries to tear them apart.
In the end, while there were inconsistencies, and some issues with the plot, I fell in love with Robbie and Ian. Their love, their adventure, and their fight for freedom, victory and the welcome of the Bonnie Prince, grabbed me and refused to let go. The book is a monster, divided between Robbie – searching for a cure to his curse, and lost in the passivitiy of its sway – and Ian – hankering for victory, but willing to put his life on the line for the man he loves.
It has bags of potential to be a re-read, permanent favourite, and I can't wait to read more in the series. I'm looking forward to getting this one in paperback, and seeing what else these two authors bring to the series.
~
Favourite Quotes
Keithen shook his head and blew out an exasperated breath, then concluded, “Live if you can, Robbie. Live for all of us.”
“Whatever fear ye found in your dreams, it’ll nae have ye whilst I hold ye.”
“I do love ye, Robbie. Know that, and take it with ye into your dreams.”
August 6, 2020
4.25 Stars!
One of my first loves when I started reading back in my early teens (a long, looooong time ago, LOL) were historical romance novels by Johanna Lindsey and some other authors, then I stumbled upon Virginia Henley and I fell head over heels for her stories, especially the ones featuring handsome, strong highlanders, heroines that didn't make me want to slap them silly, hot sex and complex storylines, which oftentimes included detailed fights or battles. It's been a while since I've read one of those books, but reading The Harp and the Sea reminded me a bit of that love.
Robbie Elliot was a reiver and a musician, who barely escaped from being hanged when the rest of his clan was sent to the gallows. He ended up training under a witch, who wanted him for her son. When Robbie told her no, she cast a spell on him tying him to the sea and his harp until he found true love, giving him 7 chances to come ashore and find it. He only had one chance left when he came upon Ian MacDonald, a Highlander warrior, who'd been sent by his Laird and uncle to the Isle of Skye to guard something for him in their quest to put the heir to Scottish king back in power, instead of the English king. While his uncle was well aware that Ian prefers lads to lassies, Ian knows it's not something that will sit right with a lot of his clansmen. Finding beautiful Robbie and his harp when he comes ashore seems too good to be true, especially since Robbie appears to be as attracted to Ian as Ian is to him, but Ian isn't certain if he can truly trust Robbie, especially since there are men after Ian and what he's safeguarding.
I really liked both Ian and Robbie. Robbie had been looking for love for so long and had almost given up hope that he would find it. And Ian, well, he'd had a bad experience with his last lover, so he was understandably wary of trusting his feelings for Ian would be returned or when he finally realized that the curse was real, that Robbie wouldn't be snatched from his side by the sea. There's some miscommunication between Robbie and Ian that made me want to slap them both upside the head, but even that was somewhat understandable all things considered. The chemistry and the love between them was palpable, though, and I loved that it worked out in the end.
This book had a little bit of everything, a fascinating storyline with curses, fights, great characters and a lovely romance. The fights and the historical elements woven into the story were a good addition and I loved that Robbie's magic played a big part in it. Overall, this is a book I have no trouble recommending to fans of historical romances with some paranormal elements.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
One of my first loves when I started reading back in my early teens (a long, looooong time ago, LOL) were historical romance novels by Johanna Lindsey and some other authors, then I stumbled upon Virginia Henley and I fell head over heels for her stories, especially the ones featuring handsome, strong highlanders, heroines that didn't make me want to slap them silly, hot sex and complex storylines, which oftentimes included detailed fights or battles. It's been a while since I've read one of those books, but reading The Harp and the Sea reminded me a bit of that love.
Robbie Elliot was a reiver and a musician, who barely escaped from being hanged when the rest of his clan was sent to the gallows. He ended up training under a witch, who wanted him for her son. When Robbie told her no, she cast a spell on him tying him to the sea and his harp until he found true love, giving him 7 chances to come ashore and find it. He only had one chance left when he came upon Ian MacDonald, a Highlander warrior, who'd been sent by his Laird and uncle to the Isle of Skye to guard something for him in their quest to put the heir to Scottish king back in power, instead of the English king. While his uncle was well aware that Ian prefers lads to lassies, Ian knows it's not something that will sit right with a lot of his clansmen. Finding beautiful Robbie and his harp when he comes ashore seems too good to be true, especially since Robbie appears to be as attracted to Ian as Ian is to him, but Ian isn't certain if he can truly trust Robbie, especially since there are men after Ian and what he's safeguarding.
I really liked both Ian and Robbie. Robbie had been looking for love for so long and had almost given up hope that he would find it. And Ian, well, he'd had a bad experience with his last lover, so he was understandably wary of trusting his feelings for Ian would be returned or when he finally realized that the curse was real, that Robbie wouldn't be snatched from his side by the sea. There's some miscommunication between Robbie and Ian that made me want to slap them both upside the head, but even that was somewhat understandable all things considered. The chemistry and the love between them was palpable, though, and I loved that it worked out in the end.
This book had a little bit of everything, a fascinating storyline with curses, fights, great characters and a lovely romance. The fights and the historical elements woven into the story were a good addition and I loved that Robbie's magic played a big part in it. Overall, this is a book I have no trouble recommending to fans of historical romances with some paranormal elements.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
July 16, 2020
This book takes you on a journey of an adventure filled with magic!
Robbie has been cursed by a witch and has seven chances to to come alive and ashore. He has one last chance to fall in love and save his life.
Be ready to embark on a quest of a lifetime with Robbie and Ian and fall in love.
The premise of this story is like the re-telling of The Little Mermaid but if offers so much more.
I really enjoyed reading this one. If you like adventures, curses, magic, ancient gods and and embarking on a quest to find true love, you will love this one!
Robbie has been cursed by a witch and has seven chances to to come alive and ashore. He has one last chance to fall in love and save his life.
Be ready to embark on a quest of a lifetime with Robbie and Ian and fall in love.
The premise of this story is like the re-telling of The Little Mermaid but if offers so much more.
I really enjoyed reading this one. If you like adventures, curses, magic, ancient gods and and embarking on a quest to find true love, you will love this one!
August 13, 2020
The novel ‘The Harp and the Sea’ by #Lou Sylvre And Anne Barwell is a new wonderful read for us stay at home beach lovers. The story will keep you engaged. My full review is on my Instagram Maddie_approves_book_reviews.
Thank you,
#netgalley,#Lou Sylvre and #Anne Barwell and #Nine Star Press
Thank you,
#netgalley,#Lou Sylvre and #Anne Barwell and #Nine Star Press
July 31, 2020
“But this sea of yours… if it tries to take you back, I’ll fight it, I swear, with everything I am.”
Your mileage may vary on this one. An m/m historical Highlander romance with a dash of fantasy/time travel. One character is cursed, and only finding true love will break that curse. There's a strong connection to music and the sea. Those are a lot of things that I personally love and enjoy, so I kinda gave this book a pass in areas where I might not have done the same for another book. And even so, I feel like the authors missed the mark in the execution many times.
One thing I can more or less solidly praise is the bare-bones, mechanical writing and style. Just in terms of creating a vivid setting and historical atmosphere, this was pretty well written. There were some really pretty descriptions and turns of phrase, and I appreciate that most of the time, I felt solidly anchored in the time period. It always throws me off when there's something really modern in the prose or dialogue in a historical book, and that didn't happen TOO often here. (It did sometimes.)
The drawbacks are manifold. (Mild story spoilers.)
- The way the story is told. The setup to a story is one of the most important parts, and I really didn't like how it was done here, for either character. For both Robbie and Ian, we're dropped right into the middle of a pivotal point in their lives, which I don't mind at all. But then the story dumps a bunch of exposition on us about how they came to that place, things that happened in the near past, and I'm left wondering... why didn't we simply start the story in those places? For Robbie, during the raids, and for Ian, during his conflict with Campbell. Depending on the way it's written, this might lengthen the time before our main characters meet (which the story doesn't need) but I still think it could have been done in a seamless way that flows.
- It's very lacking in character interaction and character development, and the romance was incredibly rushed. I guess this was an attempt at a fated mates trope. If so, it felt kind of flat. The thing is, at the 33% mark or so, there's a love confession that's honestly really heartfelt and touching, and would have meant so much and packed a harder punch if it had come FAR later in the story. But at 33%, we barely know the characters, the characters barely know each other, and it felt like nothing had been done to actually deserve that kind of mutual declaration of love. I've said it before; love at first sight can be done in a way that makes it enjoyable to read. This wasn't it.
- Some of the finer points of the plot were just... really badly communicated? That could partially be my bad; this was one of those novels where I had a hard time holding on to the thread, and often found myself a bit bored. Several times characters would be talking about something like it was an established fact, and it would be the first time I was hearing of it. And just little things that didn't make sense plot-wise or common-sense-wise. All those moments on the island when they knew they were being pursued, but chose to stay in the same place until the very last moment, and their enemies were upon them. Like... why?
And when it comes down to it, I just didn't enjoy this as much as I thought I would when reading the blurb. Others might enjoy it more, especially if the insta-love and plot flaws don't bug you like they did me.
2.5 stars. I waffled a lot on whether I'd round up or down; finally decided on up because I'm still so in love with the idea of this book and what it tried to do. But alas, as I've said. It kinda missed the mark.
☆ Review copy provided via NetGalley.
Your mileage may vary on this one. An m/m historical Highlander romance with a dash of fantasy/time travel. One character is cursed, and only finding true love will break that curse. There's a strong connection to music and the sea. Those are a lot of things that I personally love and enjoy, so I kinda gave this book a pass in areas where I might not have done the same for another book. And even so, I feel like the authors missed the mark in the execution many times.
One thing I can more or less solidly praise is the bare-bones, mechanical writing and style. Just in terms of creating a vivid setting and historical atmosphere, this was pretty well written. There were some really pretty descriptions and turns of phrase, and I appreciate that most of the time, I felt solidly anchored in the time period. It always throws me off when there's something really modern in the prose or dialogue in a historical book, and that didn't happen TOO often here. (It did sometimes.)
The drawbacks are manifold. (Mild story spoilers.)
- The way the story is told. The setup to a story is one of the most important parts, and I really didn't like how it was done here, for either character. For both Robbie and Ian, we're dropped right into the middle of a pivotal point in their lives, which I don't mind at all. But then the story dumps a bunch of exposition on us about how they came to that place, things that happened in the near past, and I'm left wondering... why didn't we simply start the story in those places? For Robbie, during the raids, and for Ian, during his conflict with Campbell. Depending on the way it's written, this might lengthen the time before our main characters meet (which the story doesn't need) but I still think it could have been done in a seamless way that flows.
- It's very lacking in character interaction and character development, and the romance was incredibly rushed. I guess this was an attempt at a fated mates trope. If so, it felt kind of flat. The thing is, at the 33% mark or so, there's a love confession that's honestly really heartfelt and touching, and would have meant so much and packed a harder punch if it had come FAR later in the story. But at 33%, we barely know the characters, the characters barely know each other, and it felt like nothing had been done to actually deserve that kind of mutual declaration of love. I've said it before; love at first sight can be done in a way that makes it enjoyable to read. This wasn't it.
- Some of the finer points of the plot were just... really badly communicated? That could partially be my bad; this was one of those novels where I had a hard time holding on to the thread, and often found myself a bit bored. Several times characters would be talking about something like it was an established fact, and it would be the first time I was hearing of it. And just little things that didn't make sense plot-wise or common-sense-wise. All those moments on the island when they knew they were being pursued, but chose to stay in the same place until the very last moment, and their enemies were upon them. Like... why?
And when it comes down to it, I just didn't enjoy this as much as I thought I would when reading the blurb. Others might enjoy it more, especially if the insta-love and plot flaws don't bug you like they did me.
2.5 stars. I waffled a lot on whether I'd round up or down; finally decided on up because I'm still so in love with the idea of this book and what it tried to do. But alas, as I've said. It kinda missed the mark.
☆ Review copy provided via NetGalley.
July 27, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
The Harp and the Sea is mostly fantasy, with a few bacon bits of history sprinkled on top and, while Robbie and Ian are endearing, the book struggles to really find its sense of self.
The book offers some vague references to the Scottish Rising of 1745 and Charles Stuart, but it never really goes into much detail about the event itself. It’s almost as if the political and military ramifications of the ‘45 are happening in the ether somewhere. Which is fine and the authors remind us this is a fantasy, except it then almost seems pointless to have The Harp and the Sea set during such a critical moment in Scottish history. Why bother with it if you don’t do anything with it? I would have preferred that the story integrate this better or had readers at least been given more of an overview of the historical situation.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
The Harp and the Sea is mostly fantasy, with a few bacon bits of history sprinkled on top and, while Robbie and Ian are endearing, the book struggles to really find its sense of self.
The book offers some vague references to the Scottish Rising of 1745 and Charles Stuart, but it never really goes into much detail about the event itself. It’s almost as if the political and military ramifications of the ‘45 are happening in the ether somewhere. Which is fine and the authors remind us this is a fantasy, except it then almost seems pointless to have The Harp and the Sea set during such a critical moment in Scottish history. Why bother with it if you don’t do anything with it? I would have preferred that the story integrate this better or had readers at least been given more of an overview of the historical situation.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
July 27, 2020
The first time I read Lou Sylvre was 2011 “Loving Luki Vasquez” the first book in the “Vasquez and James” series. In 2012 I read my first Anne Barwell book “Shadow Boxing” from the “Echoes Rising” series. I continued on reading both these authors and recently they collaborated with “Sunset at Pencarrow” a sweet, romantic tale and very entertaining. With “The Harp and The Sea” Sylvre and Barwell are becoming an outstanding writing team. I was so impressed with the research of the 16th and 17th century history and mythology of Scotland’s events, places and clans that created this superb novel.
“Sometimes stories exist because some part of them used to be true.”
Robert “Robbie” Elliott was a Reiver, not a very good one, but very talented at playing the harp. Unfortunately, he’s captured during the battle of Border Marches in 1605. He’s up against many dangerous situations; with the Border Marches, King James, dungeon and death. While watching the death of many, men that he didn’t know and some he did, he spies Melisandre, Witch of Hermitage. Robbie has no idea what he’s up against when Melisandre saves his life.
In the year 1744, Ian MacDonald the husky, kilt wearing, Highlander had put himself in a few situations that are looked down upon. His Laird and Uncle Alistair loves his nephew like a son but to help Ian he has a plan. Although, it leaves Ian feeling banished, he goes with the plan and is off to live a lonely life on the Isle of Skye. He does so with a dangerous assignment and that’s to protect the treasure for a Prince.
When Ian eventually saves Robbie and the harp, they find themselves on a dangerous and amazing quest to protect the treasure and to gain freedom and love for themselves.
I don’t often say “I loved the characters” but Ian and Robbie were wonderful. Even though Ian is leery of Robbie he still accepts him magic and all. The romance the authors create for Ian and Robbie couldn’t be more perfect. Not only did the authors create a story with two lovable characters but they transport the reader back to 16th and 17th century Scotland.
When I got to 60% of “The Harp & The Sea” I couldn’t read any further. Sylvre & Barwell made this novel so enticing I went in search of the Scottish clans: Elliott, MacDonald, MacQuarrie, Campbell, MacLeod, with their crests and tartans. Places and events: Duntulm Castle, An Uaimh Bhinn, Manannan mac Lir, Carlisle Castle, Border Marches battle and Jacobite rising of 1745. I went so far as finding a map to locate all the Isle’s: Skye, Staffa, Rum, Man and so many more fascinating things to read about.
I highly recommend this amazing, page-turning tale of: fact, fiction, fantasy, magic, romance, suspense, adventure and action. “The Harp and The Sea” was not what I expected and I thank Lou Sylvre and Anne Barwell for surprising me and keeping me thoroughly entertained!
“Sometimes stories exist because some part of them used to be true.”
Robert “Robbie” Elliott was a Reiver, not a very good one, but very talented at playing the harp. Unfortunately, he’s captured during the battle of Border Marches in 1605. He’s up against many dangerous situations; with the Border Marches, King James, dungeon and death. While watching the death of many, men that he didn’t know and some he did, he spies Melisandre, Witch of Hermitage. Robbie has no idea what he’s up against when Melisandre saves his life.
In the year 1744, Ian MacDonald the husky, kilt wearing, Highlander had put himself in a few situations that are looked down upon. His Laird and Uncle Alistair loves his nephew like a son but to help Ian he has a plan. Although, it leaves Ian feeling banished, he goes with the plan and is off to live a lonely life on the Isle of Skye. He does so with a dangerous assignment and that’s to protect the treasure for a Prince.
When Ian eventually saves Robbie and the harp, they find themselves on a dangerous and amazing quest to protect the treasure and to gain freedom and love for themselves.
I don’t often say “I loved the characters” but Ian and Robbie were wonderful. Even though Ian is leery of Robbie he still accepts him magic and all. The romance the authors create for Ian and Robbie couldn’t be more perfect. Not only did the authors create a story with two lovable characters but they transport the reader back to 16th and 17th century Scotland.
When I got to 60% of “The Harp & The Sea” I couldn’t read any further. Sylvre & Barwell made this novel so enticing I went in search of the Scottish clans: Elliott, MacDonald, MacQuarrie, Campbell, MacLeod, with their crests and tartans. Places and events: Duntulm Castle, An Uaimh Bhinn, Manannan mac Lir, Carlisle Castle, Border Marches battle and Jacobite rising of 1745. I went so far as finding a map to locate all the Isle’s: Skye, Staffa, Rum, Man and so many more fascinating things to read about.
I highly recommend this amazing, page-turning tale of: fact, fiction, fantasy, magic, romance, suspense, adventure and action. “The Harp and The Sea” was not what I expected and I thank Lou Sylvre and Anne Barwell for surprising me and keeping me thoroughly entertained!
July 29, 2020
I received a copy of The Harp and the Sea by Lou Sylre and Anne Barwell via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review. Although this was more historical and less fantasy than I expected, I did enjoy the story. The authors made the characters of Robbie and Ian well-rounded, with plenty of flaws to accompany their good traits. Not being of Scottish background, the history was all new to me although I kept reading to get more of the magic. What I appreciated was the authors did not sugarcoat the harsh reality of life during the time periods covered by the book. They made it believable that Robbie and Ian could set up a life with the laird’s blessing, although war loomed in the future for everyone. I would read another such story by the authors.
July 24, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this eARC
Loved it! Ian is banished by his uncle to Skye to protect the jewels that will support their fight against their enemies. He is hunted by those that do not support his clans fight and is constantly on his guard. But being on Skye is lonely until he comes across Robbie who was cursed by a with over 100 years ago. Robbie has to find true love to be free of this curse and he hopes that finally Ian may be the one to help him. Ian and Robbie are captured by their enemies and then escape headed towards Ian’s clan all the while protecting the jewels.
There were a few parts where the story became a bit long winded but overall there was always something happening that kept me turning the pages. The slow building romance between Ian and Robbie was great and although expected still held a few twists as Robbie is continually called back to the sea.
Loved it! Ian is banished by his uncle to Skye to protect the jewels that will support their fight against their enemies. He is hunted by those that do not support his clans fight and is constantly on his guard. But being on Skye is lonely until he comes across Robbie who was cursed by a with over 100 years ago. Robbie has to find true love to be free of this curse and he hopes that finally Ian may be the one to help him. Ian and Robbie are captured by their enemies and then escape headed towards Ian’s clan all the while protecting the jewels.
There were a few parts where the story became a bit long winded but overall there was always something happening that kept me turning the pages. The slow building romance between Ian and Robbie was great and although expected still held a few twists as Robbie is continually called back to the sea.
July 27, 2020
This was a really wonderful MM re-telling of the beloved classic The Little Mermaid. Ian and Robbie were likable characters and the storyline was wonderfully engaging. The well-written characters and top-notch world building made for a page-turning read.
*I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by NetGalley*
*I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by NetGalley*
August 11, 2020
With the intrigue of an epic journey, enchantment of a fairy tale, a legendary romance, charming folk tunes of old, and stunning visual depictions—including a rugged Highlander in a kilt, yay—The Harp and the Sea is not a book to be missed. Lou Sylvre and Anne Barwell have created a classic in the MM romance genre; a rare gem in its historical and fantastical elements, lacking nothing in passion, action, and intrigue.
I cannot fathom the research necessary to create a historical novel. (This is one of the reasons I read historical romance but do not write it.) To me, there is nothing worse than a “historical” romance that does not ring true, but THIS IS NOT THE CASE with The Harp and the Sea. Sylvre and Barwell have mastered the language patterns and political background, as well as the essential, smaller details of life in the Scottish Highlands in the 1700s, during the Jacobite rebellions. Clothing, food, housing, and attitudes bring this tale to life in a way that I can truly believe.
But to me, romance reigns supreme, and Ian and Robbie’s love story is awe-inspiring. Theirs is an uncomplicated, yet intensely profound, bond. With some wariness, the two men are able to identify each other as soulmates, discover their mutual passion, and work together—sometimes even fighting side by side—in an effort to earn their happily ever after. An abundance of spine-tingling action and bewitched adventure is required to meet this goal.
I highly recommend The Harp and the Sea, a unique work of historical romance, studded with heated passion and magical elements.
I cannot fathom the research necessary to create a historical novel. (This is one of the reasons I read historical romance but do not write it.) To me, there is nothing worse than a “historical” romance that does not ring true, but THIS IS NOT THE CASE with The Harp and the Sea. Sylvre and Barwell have mastered the language patterns and political background, as well as the essential, smaller details of life in the Scottish Highlands in the 1700s, during the Jacobite rebellions. Clothing, food, housing, and attitudes bring this tale to life in a way that I can truly believe.
But to me, romance reigns supreme, and Ian and Robbie’s love story is awe-inspiring. Theirs is an uncomplicated, yet intensely profound, bond. With some wariness, the two men are able to identify each other as soulmates, discover their mutual passion, and work together—sometimes even fighting side by side—in an effort to earn their happily ever after. An abundance of spine-tingling action and bewitched adventure is required to meet this goal.
I highly recommend The Harp and the Sea, a unique work of historical romance, studded with heated passion and magical elements.
July 31, 2020
I've always been fascinated with Scottish clans and their history, and one of the things I appreciated about this book was the cultural and historical atmosphere it offered.
I also liked the rush of escaping the curse, the danger and the use of magic. As for the relationship between Ian and Robbie, I liked them together, although I felt things between them were a bit rushed.
Overall, this was an interesting read, that kept me engaged until the end, intrigued about the happily ever after.
*ARC provided by the authors via IndiGo Marketing&Design in exchange for an honest review
I also liked the rush of escaping the curse, the danger and the use of magic. As for the relationship between Ian and Robbie, I liked them together, although I felt things between them were a bit rushed.
Overall, this was an interesting read, that kept me engaged until the end, intrigued about the happily ever after.
*ARC provided by the authors via IndiGo Marketing&Design in exchange for an honest review
July 24, 2020
A historical romance set in the hills of Scotland! I loved the magical elements to the plot... the curse that has made Robbie a slave to the ocean and to finding the love of his life... made for an interesting read. Through a strange twist of fate Ian and Robbie (cursed) end up on the run together.
There are lots of fight scenes in this book, a smoldering sexual relationship between the two main characters. I loved the way that the author translated the Scottish brogue into text... it brought back the sounds of the accent for sure.
I did find that I wanted a bit more movement in terms of the speed of the book... the pacing was a little slow for me at times. But I genuinely liked Robbie and felt for him. He was stuck with a horrible curse.
There are lots of fight scenes in this book, a smoldering sexual relationship between the two main characters. I loved the way that the author translated the Scottish brogue into text... it brought back the sounds of the accent for sure.
I did find that I wanted a bit more movement in terms of the speed of the book... the pacing was a little slow for me at times. But I genuinely liked Robbie and felt for him. He was stuck with a horrible curse.
July 24, 2020
Disclaimer: I have voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy from the publisher via NetGalley, thank you!
The premise of this book had me hooked from the moment I realized it's not straight. It sounded delightfully like a kind of a sailor/pirate story of sorts with witches, curses as ships. It definitely wasn't.
Robbie Elliot, cursed by a witch to spend his life on the sea, only coming ashore from time to time to find true love washes ashore on the Isle of Skye. It's his seventh attempt and he is slowly losing hope but on the island, he meets a handsome Highlander, Ian, who may just free him from the curse.
What I enjoyed about this book was the premise - the curse idea almost feels like from a fairytale and Ian's part of the story with the treasure he was guarding promised some more action. Reading the synopsis I was convinced it would be a straight romance but when I got to Ian's name I immediately decided that I wanted to read it. It just seemed too good to be true.
Another thing I liked is how the Scottish accent was incorporated into the dialogue. I didn't realize at first the book took place in Scotland. Most of the books I read are sadly very American-centric so it was nice to read something with a different setting. It did make it a bit harder to read at times, as I had to process what the characters were saying but once I've gotten used to it, it didn't bother me anymore.
There was, however a ton of stuff that just didn't do it for me.
This book had one of the most underdeveloped and rushed romances I've ever read. The characters are confessing their profound love for each other around 30% into the book after like 2 days of knowing each other. I feel it'd had happened earlier if not for the fact that in the beginning, the book set up their separate backstories that lead to their current circumstances. And maybe I wouldn't even mind it at much if the characters had any kind of chemistry with each other. Sadly from that point, any conflict that arose was just a random drama fuel that didn't have any point or sense because there was nothing to root for between Robbie and Ian. Overall, both of their personalities even separately were one-dimensional and I couldn't bring myself to care for either of them. Didn't help that while Ian was described as muscular, big man, Robbie was long-haired and very passive, often referred to as weak and in need of protection despite his military background. That's just not really what I like in any kind of romance. Power couples all the way.
Another issue was that pacing felt really weird in this book. It was super slow most of the time and had me skim the pages looking for something to happen. It was kind of like reading a draft, I suppose. I think it may be just a me-thing but if I can't connect to the characters or focus on the plot I usually don't like the book as much as I hoped I would.
All in all, this sadly wasn't a book for me. I'm sure others would find much more fun with it though if they don't mind slower going plots.
The premise of this book had me hooked from the moment I realized it's not straight. It sounded delightfully like a kind of a sailor/pirate story of sorts with witches, curses as ships. It definitely wasn't.
Robbie Elliot, cursed by a witch to spend his life on the sea, only coming ashore from time to time to find true love washes ashore on the Isle of Skye. It's his seventh attempt and he is slowly losing hope but on the island, he meets a handsome Highlander, Ian, who may just free him from the curse.
What I enjoyed about this book was the premise - the curse idea almost feels like from a fairytale and Ian's part of the story with the treasure he was guarding promised some more action. Reading the synopsis I was convinced it would be a straight romance but when I got to Ian's name I immediately decided that I wanted to read it. It just seemed too good to be true.
Another thing I liked is how the Scottish accent was incorporated into the dialogue. I didn't realize at first the book took place in Scotland. Most of the books I read are sadly very American-centric so it was nice to read something with a different setting. It did make it a bit harder to read at times, as I had to process what the characters were saying but once I've gotten used to it, it didn't bother me anymore.
There was, however a ton of stuff that just didn't do it for me.
This book had one of the most underdeveloped and rushed romances I've ever read. The characters are confessing their profound love for each other around 30% into the book after like 2 days of knowing each other. I feel it'd had happened earlier if not for the fact that in the beginning, the book set up their separate backstories that lead to their current circumstances. And maybe I wouldn't even mind it at much if the characters had any kind of chemistry with each other. Sadly from that point, any conflict that arose was just a random drama fuel that didn't have any point or sense because there was nothing to root for between Robbie and Ian. Overall, both of their personalities even separately were one-dimensional and I couldn't bring myself to care for either of them. Didn't help that while Ian was described as muscular, big man, Robbie was long-haired and very passive, often referred to as weak and in need of protection despite his military background. That's just not really what I like in any kind of romance. Power couples all the way.
Another issue was that pacing felt really weird in this book. It was super slow most of the time and had me skim the pages looking for something to happen. It was kind of like reading a draft, I suppose. I think it may be just a me-thing but if I can't connect to the characters or focus on the plot I usually don't like the book as much as I hoped I would.
All in all, this sadly wasn't a book for me. I'm sure others would find much more fun with it though if they don't mind slower going plots.
June 13, 2024
It's 1605 and Robbie Elliot, a Reiver and musician from the Scottish borders, has been sent to be hanged.
But...
Melisandre, Lady Talwyn, the Witch of Hermitage Castle arranges his escape by using trickery.
She puts a curse on Robbie, sending him to a life, more like a watery death-like state, in the depths of the sea with seven chances to break the curse by coming to land and finding a true love. On his seventh attempt, over a hundred years later, he comes ashore on the Isle of Skye. This is his final chance at love, at breaking this curse.
On this Isle, Robbie's fate is to bring him to Ian MacDonald, "... ruddy, huge Highlander, kilt-clad and bearing a hand-and-hand-a-half-sword across his back." It seems Ian is also under his own 'curse' of sorts, having been banished to this Isle by his uncle, the laird. This banishment is a ruse in itself, a way to send Ian to protect a treasure for the coffers of Prince Charlie.
And that is all of the plot I'll tell.
The key words, the magical words, "and then the harp began to sing" sets the aura, the magic, the beauty of this novel for me. Believe it or not, that simple theme IS the story, this harp and its magic, its music. Its POWER.
It may sound cliché to say that this novel put me right in the middle of what seemed one of those brawny, gritty, beautiful, haunting, romantic, sexy, sensual Scottish Highland films. Because Sylvre and Barwell are magicians themselves with words. The descriptions of this terrain are so very vivid, one can see every inch of landscape so clearly and beautifully. Rocky cliffs, sea-splashed rocky shores, mysterious, dark, haunting caves, castles and THE main character, for ME...the SEA.
I admit, I'm afraid of water, but I've always been so entranced by the sight of it, the sound of it, the glory of it. And this novel, for me, was oddly comforting and frightening at the same time.
And that, reader, is brilliant writing.
Not only are the landscape and the sea characters in themselves, but Ian, Robbie and the supporting cast are so realistic. Not done with worded brush strokes to make it all pretty and nice. But raw, rugged, primitive characterizations.
Much sensuality in the dialogue, the settings, the imagery of the men, Ian and Robbie.
The main character, though, is the HARP. This part, the harp and its relationship with the haunting sea, is so original and memorable. The harp. Its magic key which is, actually, the heart of the story. Breaking the curse, with this magical, powerful harp leading the way.
Yep. And the harp began to sing. And there the story starts and there the story beautifully, magically, memorably ends.
If you love beautiful tales with Celtic beauty...kilts, swords, realistic dialogue, ships, boats, the sea, gorgeous men...I highly recommend this book. Oh, hell, I highly recommend that, even if you haven't read many books about Highlanders and Scotland, to start with this one.
But...
Melisandre, Lady Talwyn, the Witch of Hermitage Castle arranges his escape by using trickery.
She puts a curse on Robbie, sending him to a life, more like a watery death-like state, in the depths of the sea with seven chances to break the curse by coming to land and finding a true love. On his seventh attempt, over a hundred years later, he comes ashore on the Isle of Skye. This is his final chance at love, at breaking this curse.
On this Isle, Robbie's fate is to bring him to Ian MacDonald, "... ruddy, huge Highlander, kilt-clad and bearing a hand-and-hand-a-half-sword across his back." It seems Ian is also under his own 'curse' of sorts, having been banished to this Isle by his uncle, the laird. This banishment is a ruse in itself, a way to send Ian to protect a treasure for the coffers of Prince Charlie.
And that is all of the plot I'll tell.
The key words, the magical words, "and then the harp began to sing" sets the aura, the magic, the beauty of this novel for me. Believe it or not, that simple theme IS the story, this harp and its magic, its music. Its POWER.
It may sound cliché to say that this novel put me right in the middle of what seemed one of those brawny, gritty, beautiful, haunting, romantic, sexy, sensual Scottish Highland films. Because Sylvre and Barwell are magicians themselves with words. The descriptions of this terrain are so very vivid, one can see every inch of landscape so clearly and beautifully. Rocky cliffs, sea-splashed rocky shores, mysterious, dark, haunting caves, castles and THE main character, for ME...the SEA.
I admit, I'm afraid of water, but I've always been so entranced by the sight of it, the sound of it, the glory of it. And this novel, for me, was oddly comforting and frightening at the same time.
And that, reader, is brilliant writing.
Not only are the landscape and the sea characters in themselves, but Ian, Robbie and the supporting cast are so realistic. Not done with worded brush strokes to make it all pretty and nice. But raw, rugged, primitive characterizations.
Much sensuality in the dialogue, the settings, the imagery of the men, Ian and Robbie.
The main character, though, is the HARP. This part, the harp and its relationship with the haunting sea, is so original and memorable. The harp. Its magic key which is, actually, the heart of the story. Breaking the curse, with this magical, powerful harp leading the way.
Yep. And the harp began to sing. And there the story starts and there the story beautifully, magically, memorably ends.
If you love beautiful tales with Celtic beauty...kilts, swords, realistic dialogue, ships, boats, the sea, gorgeous men...I highly recommend this book. Oh, hell, I highly recommend that, even if you haven't read many books about Highlanders and Scotland, to start with this one.
August 26, 2020
This novel begins with Robbie in the 1600s, cursed by a witch to drift over the sea until he meets true love to break his curse, and then transitions to more than a century later to introduce Ian, a would-be revolutionary on a secret mission for his uncle, the laird. It’s dramatic and complicated right from the start, and it’s awesome.
The authors do a fantastic job of interweaving two adventures— the turmoil of being caught up in the ancient curse and the mechanisms of the pending modern revolution— so that there’s always the tension from one or both hanging over the lovers. Even so, the love story is itself front and center, with time enough to really deepen and develop. Ian and Robbie are always in multiple forms of danger, but they come together, physically and emotionally, in really meaningful ways.
I really admire the authors’ ability to manage so many plot threads, to keep things exciting without being confusing, and to make the “everything is happening all at once” of it all feel rewarding rather than overwhelming. It felt particularly significant that the curse ultimately plays a pivotal role in the resolution, not just in the romance, but also in Ian’s super secret political mission as well. Highly recommend!
*I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily composed an unbiased review.
The authors do a fantastic job of interweaving two adventures— the turmoil of being caught up in the ancient curse and the mechanisms of the pending modern revolution— so that there’s always the tension from one or both hanging over the lovers. Even so, the love story is itself front and center, with time enough to really deepen and develop. Ian and Robbie are always in multiple forms of danger, but they come together, physically and emotionally, in really meaningful ways.
I really admire the authors’ ability to manage so many plot threads, to keep things exciting without being confusing, and to make the “everything is happening all at once” of it all feel rewarding rather than overwhelming. It felt particularly significant that the curse ultimately plays a pivotal role in the resolution, not just in the romance, but also in Ian’s super secret political mission as well. Highly recommend!
*I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily composed an unbiased review.
April 28, 2025
Meandering MM paranormal romance that I mostly skimmed. Takes place in 1600s and 1700s Scotland during their uprising against the English. A man is saved from execution by a witch, only to be cursed when he won't go along with her plan. A hundred years later a man is exiled from his clan and given a secret mission to guard some jewels meant to finance the king who never shows up. He is harassed by an enemy clan intent on stealing the hidden jewels.
Meanwhile, the first man shows up from the past, and they form a relationship. Other things occur, but they were not interesting enough for me to read.
Meanwhile, the first man shows up from the past, and they form a relationship. Other things occur, but they were not interesting enough for me to read.
August 4, 2020
I thought a historical fantasy M/M romance would be my jam. Perhaps another one will be, but not The Harp and the Sea. Let's put it this way: I got about halfway through and had to put it down for a couple of days. When I came back to it I was completely lost; I remembered that the two main characters had just escaped from a dungeon but whose dungeon, why they were there in the first place, and where they were going had been thoroughly erased from my mind.
Maybe this book won't be so forgettable to another reader, but I can't recommend it.
I received a digital ARC from the publisher via Netgalley.
Maybe this book won't be so forgettable to another reader, but I can't recommend it.
I received a digital ARC from the publisher via Netgalley.
July 20, 2020
I had a hard time fully decided how I felt about this book. Parts of it made me want to put it down, but then something really great or cool happened and I was hooked again. I definitely liked Robbie more than Ian most of the time, but I also just enjoy magical elements in stories more so that was probably it. I loved how this felt like a fairytale and a pirate story (it isn't, but that's the vibe). I think in all, I liked it, but it definitely has pacing issues.
September 22, 2021
An enjoyable fantasy that reads like a fairy tale of sorts. Good characters and story plot. I appreciated the description of the surroundings, the era's clothing, and even though the historical part of the story doesn't come to full description/fruition, It's also well appreciated. These two authors are well appreciated for their own stories, I'm glad to see them together to build this wonderful 'world'.
September 20, 2020
I'm generally a big fan of fairy tale retellings, and this story definitely has good bones. There were a few things that stopped it from getting a higher rating though. The biggest issue of which was that it almost read more like a history book. All of the story was there but it just wasn't presented in a super engaging way.
September 21, 2020
Thank you to the publishers, author and NetGalley for the free copy of this book!
This was a quick, easy read with a nice amount of fluff. I didn't fully connect with it- there wasn't enough depth in some places and it always annoys me when the main characters fall in love after two minutes- but over all if you're looking for a quick, cute m/m romance, give this a try!
This was a quick, easy read with a nice amount of fluff. I didn't fully connect with it- there wasn't enough depth in some places and it always annoys me when the main characters fall in love after two minutes- but over all if you're looking for a quick, cute m/m romance, give this a try!
July 24, 2020
Even if it's well written and the world building is interesting I couldn't connect to the story that fell flat.
Not my cup of tea.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
Not my cup of tea.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
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