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Hurst Amulet #1
One Night in Scotland
The first in a scintillating series by the New York Times bestselling author Karen Hawkins follows a desperate beauty on an urgent quest, a dark earl scarred by his beastly past—and the ancient treasure that binds their fates.
Someone is holding her brother prisoner in exchange for a gold-and-onyx box covered in mysterious runes, so Mary Hurst boldly sets out from the family vicarage to find the priceless artifact. But the man who possesses it, Angus Hay, the Earl of Erroll, is less than sympathetic to her plight.
Himself a prisoner of his dark past, Angus refuses to yield the box— or allow Mary to leave. Suspicious of the alluring lass’s mission, he vows to wrest a confession from her, but unearths a fiery temper and a will as strong as his own.
Passion flares between them, but now there is more at an unknown enemy is hunting down the precious box and will stop at nothing. Risking all for love, Angus must solve the mystery behind the runes…and trust the only woman who can awaken his forgotten heart.
Someone is holding her brother prisoner in exchange for a gold-and-onyx box covered in mysterious runes, so Mary Hurst boldly sets out from the family vicarage to find the priceless artifact. But the man who possesses it, Angus Hay, the Earl of Erroll, is less than sympathetic to her plight.
Himself a prisoner of his dark past, Angus refuses to yield the box— or allow Mary to leave. Suspicious of the alluring lass’s mission, he vows to wrest a confession from her, but unearths a fiery temper and a will as strong as his own.
Passion flares between them, but now there is more at an unknown enemy is hunting down the precious box and will stop at nothing. Risking all for love, Angus must solve the mystery behind the runes…and trust the only woman who can awaken his forgotten heart.
335 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 23, 2010
76 people are currently reading
1444 people want to read
About the author
Karen Hawkins
59 books2,982 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Karen Hawkins writes novels that have been praised as touching, witty, charming, and heartwarming. A native Southerner who grew up in the mountains of East Tennessee where storytelling is a way of life, Karen recently moved to frosty New England with her beloved husband and multiple foster dogs. The Dove Pond books are a nod to the thousands of books that opened doors to more adventures, places, and discoveries than she ever imagined possible. To find out more about Karen, follow her at:
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FACEBOOK • TWITTER • INSTAGRAM • PINTEREST
If you'd like to keep up with Karen's crazed and hectic schedule, win free books, find out about her coming releases, or just want to engage in some easy on-line snooping, sign up for Karen's amazing newsletter!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 175 reviews
November 28, 2010
I adored this book. I seriously smiled non-stop like a 14-year-old girl with a major crush on a boy across the hall. First, Angus, he is grumpy, moody, irritable (help me out here) and all those other adjectives describing someone who woke up on the wrong side of the bed. Nevertheless, he is smart, sensitive, cocky (yes this goes into the good quality side) and loyal. Second, Mary is grumpy, moody, irritable but also, smart, sensitive, witty, and loyal. Yup, they are exactly alike so they challenge each other, butt heads and make for a hilarious but fun-loving book.
Angus and Mary make the book but that does not mean the storyline is not good. Because it is. The book had a “Beauty and the Beast” quality but there was no clear line on who was the beauty and who was the beast. Both Angus and Mary felt flawed physically but viewed the other person as beautiful. The beauty they saw in each other was what I loved about the book.
The “servants” make for great minor characters especially the feisty, “tell it like it is” Abigail who seems to be willing to give her right and/or left teat for about everything (figuratively speaking of course)!
The end seemed a bit rushed and seemed incomplete. However, there is a book 2 and I definitely will read it.
4 out of 5 stars.
Cover- 1 out of 5 stars- horrible cover- it doesn’t show Angus like he truly is in the book or even close. It does a real disservice to the book to show him without his scars.
Angus and Mary make the book but that does not mean the storyline is not good. Because it is. The book had a “Beauty and the Beast” quality but there was no clear line on who was the beauty and who was the beast. Both Angus and Mary felt flawed physically but viewed the other person as beautiful. The beauty they saw in each other was what I loved about the book.
The “servants” make for great minor characters especially the feisty, “tell it like it is” Abigail who seems to be willing to give her right and/or left teat for about everything (figuratively speaking of course)!
The end seemed a bit rushed and seemed incomplete. However, there is a book 2 and I definitely will read it.
4 out of 5 stars.
Cover- 1 out of 5 stars- horrible cover- it doesn’t show Angus like he truly is in the book or even close. It does a real disservice to the book to show him without his scars.
May 15, 2011
You guys are probably going to laugh at me- I got the next book Scandal in Scotland for review, and as I was flipping through it, I realized there was an excerpt for the first book (this one, One Night in Scotland) at the end. So, I started reading it. And was so intrigued by it, I ordered the book immediately.
We enter with a letter from the heroine's brother Michael, who is an Egyptologist, and is being held ransom by an unknown person, for a certain artifact. So Michael sends a letter to his sister Mary telling her to please get the artifact from a Scottish colleague Angus Hays, Earl Errol. Unfortunately he'd just sent a letter to Angus telling him not to give up that artifact to anyone, not even someone he would usually trust. When Mary claims to be Michael's sister, he doesn't believe her. Not only had he gotten that letter, but Michael Hurst had never once said he had a sister.
Angus locks Mary in a luxurious room, and leaves her there until her identity can be proven. Mary refuses to be cowed and makes as much racket as possible to gain his attention. That scene was hilarious! He tossed her furniture out the window, and kissed her senseless. Fabulous, wonderful scene!
The main things that prevent this from being a 5 star book for me were that once Angus figured out Mary really was who she said she was, there was no actual apology. She also took it waay too easily. Granted by this point they were in love, but it still felt too easy for my taste. Another thing that bothered me is that there were a few plot points that I don't even get where they came from. Angus' cousin was a nice guy, but at the end it turns out he does something rather dastardly (won't spoil it, but it didn't quite come from nowhere, but it didn't fit his personality either). And the biggie. I hated that Angus' deceased wife looked like Mary. And I don't get why this was necessary? Really. And Mary never noticed the resemblance, even though EVERY SINGLE PERSON comments on it. So what was the point of that? It was odd.
But, that aside, I really enjoyed reading this story. The book itself is fun, Mary is a great heroine (think Evie from the Mummy), and Angus has a secret...and some scars. But which ones are healed? The ones on his body? Or the ones inside? The plot is never quite tied up so we have to read the next one in the series to find out what happens to Michael...does the artifact reach him in time for the ransom? What is so darn special about this artifact? I read it in one shot, and I plan on reading Scandal in Scotland right up next.
We enter with a letter from the heroine's brother Michael, who is an Egyptologist, and is being held ransom by an unknown person, for a certain artifact. So Michael sends a letter to his sister Mary telling her to please get the artifact from a Scottish colleague Angus Hays, Earl Errol. Unfortunately he'd just sent a letter to Angus telling him not to give up that artifact to anyone, not even someone he would usually trust. When Mary claims to be Michael's sister, he doesn't believe her. Not only had he gotten that letter, but Michael Hurst had never once said he had a sister.
Angus locks Mary in a luxurious room, and leaves her there until her identity can be proven. Mary refuses to be cowed and makes as much racket as possible to gain his attention. That scene was hilarious! He tossed her furniture out the window, and kissed her senseless. Fabulous, wonderful scene!
The main things that prevent this from being a 5 star book for me were that once Angus figured out Mary really was who she said she was, there was no actual apology. She also took it waay too easily. Granted by this point they were in love, but it still felt too easy for my taste. Another thing that bothered me is that there were a few plot points that I don't even get where they came from. Angus' cousin was a nice guy, but at the end it turns out he does something rather dastardly (won't spoil it, but it didn't quite come from nowhere, but it didn't fit his personality either). And the biggie. I hated that Angus' deceased wife looked like Mary. And I don't get why this was necessary? Really. And Mary never noticed the resemblance, even though EVERY SINGLE PERSON comments on it. So what was the point of that? It was odd.
But, that aside, I really enjoyed reading this story. The book itself is fun, Mary is a great heroine (think Evie from the Mummy), and Angus has a secret...and some scars. But which ones are healed? The ones on his body? Or the ones inside? The plot is never quite tied up so we have to read the next one in the series to find out what happens to Michael...does the artifact reach him in time for the ransom? What is so darn special about this artifact? I read it in one shot, and I plan on reading Scandal in Scotland right up next.
June 9, 2021
This was a good, fun, light read. I think I will continue with a couple more in the series as I like the light plot about the amulet, the box, and all the Egyptology, although it is on the lighter side. Liked the characters and the slow burn between the H/ h was entertaining and good. The end was a just a bit rushed, these two don’t come together until the last 20 pages or so, only sharing a few kisses throughout the story. The rest of the time it was the build up to it and I enjoyed it! Just fun.
April 7, 2025
3,5 - Con questo volume inizia la saga dedicata alla famiglia Hurst e al suo legame con un particolare amuleto che si tramanda in famiglia da secoli, forse oramai perduto.
All’inizio della vicenda scopriamo, infatti, che il fratello archeologo si trovava in Egitto a fare ricerche, dove è stato fatto prigioniero di un potente locale, che vuole barattarne la libertà con la restituzione di un manufatto portato in Inghilterra. Subito, la sorella Mary si attiva per recuperare l’oggetto, affidato in custodia presso il conte di Erroll, ma, giunta al maniero, incontra una serie di inaspettate difficoltà.
Il conte non si fida di lei, la crede una truffatrice, e pensa bene di segregarla, mentre prende tempo per approfondire la sua versione dei fatti.
Ho trovato la trama abbastanza irreale: il conte che imprigiona un’ospite nella torre, Mary che la prende con molta tranquillità, salvo poi ribellarsi con modalità abbastanza ininfluenti; il destino di Michael che pian piano resta sullo sfondo, mentre i due trascorrono il tempo a dirsele e a rivelarsi reciproci segreti.
Più di tutto, ho trovato il ritmo lento, parecchio dilatato. Il tempo al castello sembra non finire mai, tanto che, quando mi sono accorta che i due erano passati dall’odio all’amore, sono dovuta tornare indietro per capire quando e come ciò fosse avvenuto (forse sto invecchiando, ma temo di essere sprofondata in una nebbia soporifera durante la lettura…).
Lo ammetto: il vero motivo per cui sono curiosa di proseguire la serie sono i due fratelli di Mary, William e Robert. Con lei ho già dato.
PS. Altra curiosità: ho scoperto che l’antefatto sull’amuleto, tesoro del clan MacLean, viene narrato in Much Ado About Marriage (La Fortuna del conte), sesto volume di una saga precedente dell’autrice, ambientata nel 1560.
All’inizio della vicenda scopriamo, infatti, che il fratello archeologo si trovava in Egitto a fare ricerche, dove è stato fatto prigioniero di un potente locale, che vuole barattarne la libertà con la restituzione di un manufatto portato in Inghilterra. Subito, la sorella Mary si attiva per recuperare l’oggetto, affidato in custodia presso il conte di Erroll, ma, giunta al maniero, incontra una serie di inaspettate difficoltà.
Il conte non si fida di lei, la crede una truffatrice, e pensa bene di segregarla, mentre prende tempo per approfondire la sua versione dei fatti.
Ho trovato la trama abbastanza irreale: il conte che imprigiona un’ospite nella torre, Mary che la prende con molta tranquillità, salvo poi ribellarsi con modalità abbastanza ininfluenti; il destino di Michael che pian piano resta sullo sfondo, mentre i due trascorrono il tempo a dirsele e a rivelarsi reciproci segreti.
Più di tutto, ho trovato il ritmo lento, parecchio dilatato. Il tempo al castello sembra non finire mai, tanto che, quando mi sono accorta che i due erano passati dall’odio all’amore, sono dovuta tornare indietro per capire quando e come ciò fosse avvenuto (forse sto invecchiando, ma temo di essere sprofondata in una nebbia soporifera durante la lettura…).
Lo ammetto: il vero motivo per cui sono curiosa di proseguire la serie sono i due fratelli di Mary, William e Robert. Con lei ho già dato.
PS. Altra curiosità: ho scoperto che l’antefatto sull’amuleto, tesoro del clan MacLean, viene narrato in Much Ado About Marriage (La Fortuna del conte), sesto volume di una saga precedente dell’autrice, ambientata nel 1560.
May 17, 2012
Boooooring.
The characters felt flat and the whole story is too rushed -- it pretty much goes on and on like this: heroine who tries to help her brother ends up the hero's prisioner, she makes noise or some other shenanigan to annoy the guy, he goes to her room to put an end to it, they make out; next scene: repeat, but let’s move this party to the breakfast room first, and then to the sitting room, and then to the library, and then to the sheepherder’s croft… and then MARRYMEILOVEYOUILOVEYOU!! And nothing really important or exciting happens. The end.
*PT* Cuidado com o Dálmata
The characters felt flat and the whole story is too rushed -- it pretty much goes on and on like this: heroine who tries to help her brother ends up the hero's prisioner, she makes noise or some other shenanigan to annoy the guy, he goes to her room to put an end to it, they make out; next scene: repeat, but let’s move this party to the breakfast room first, and then to the sitting room, and then to the library, and then to the sheepherder’s croft… and then MARRYMEILOVEYOUILOVEYOU!! And nothing really important or exciting happens. The end.
*PT* Cuidado com o Dálmata
September 11, 2011
Wow this book is REALLY BAD! The writing is just so flat and uninspired. Not even sure if I can finish it.
*
Well, I DID finish it, and it didn't get any better. The hero (Earl Erroll) and the heroine (Mary Hurst) were both assholes, the writing was flat, the plot was ludicrous, the plot "twist" was painfully obvious, and the sex scene was ridiculous and completely out of place (we go from a few kisses now and then to suddenly "she placed her other hand on his cock" - what? am I suddenly in another book?????). In honor of this book, I've created a new bookshelf: "Authors I Don't Ever Want To Read Again" - I'll add other books to this shelf, but One Night in Scotland holds the honor of being first.
How is it that this book got so many good reviews????
*
Well, I DID finish it, and it didn't get any better. The hero (Earl Erroll) and the heroine (Mary Hurst) were both assholes, the writing was flat, the plot was ludicrous, the plot "twist" was painfully obvious, and the sex scene was ridiculous and completely out of place (we go from a few kisses now and then to suddenly "she placed her other hand on his cock" - what? am I suddenly in another book?????). In honor of this book, I've created a new bookshelf: "Authors I Don't Ever Want To Read Again" - I'll add other books to this shelf, but One Night in Scotland holds the honor of being first.
How is it that this book got so many good reviews????
September 5, 2017
Slow, lacked much passion, well written, witty dialogue. I am a huge fan of Karen Hawkins' books. She is on my pre-order list. I don't even read a description I just purchase because I know it will be great. I have read most of her books. I am reading some of his earlier work. While she is not historically a writer of sexually charged books, there is always much passion. There were times that I I felt the passion in this book, but the hero and the heroine never truly captured me. Don't get me wrong. I Love Karen Hawkins and will continue to read everything she has written. This was just a bit slow for me.
*Cheers & Happy Reading
*Cheers & Happy Reading
January 21, 2018
Put it down halfway through despite an earnest attempt to make it all the way through. This is a bad rough draft of a novel that shouldn't have been written in the first place. Problems of logic and motive both in plot and character psychology. Poorly written with typos, incorrect words, and a general lack of tempo and connection. I'm very disappointed because I've LOVED other Karen Hawkins books. I turn to her for a light-hearted, well-crafted read. At least, I did. Maybe it's just the Scottish series.
November 25, 2010
One Night In Scotland got me going in all the right ways! I was swept off my feet and entered the Mary's world. It was depressing when the book was over and I had to go back to real life. Romance lovers everywhere will swoon for Angus - but hands off! He's mine! Five stars, easy:)
September 20, 2012
See my review of Sleepless in Scotland for the deets, here. Despite being essentially identical, this one isn't as good as that one and the Preposterous Situation is even more Preposterous. Also, there is a wisecracking maid who gets really old really quick.
December 1, 2010
ONE NIGHT IN SCOTLAND by Karen Hawkins is a delightful, exciting historical romance set in 1822, Scotland.It is the first in the Hurst Amulet series. It is well written with details,depth,twists and turns. It has romance, sweet sensuality, betrayal, trust, love, passion, adventure,mystery, an ancient treasure, family and love of artifacts. The hero, Angus, is strong, scarred from a fire seven years earlier that took the life of his wife, has a temper, has trust issues, loves priceless artifacts, and is intrigued by the beautiful Mary, the sister of his dear friend. The heroine, Mary, is beautiful, on a mission to save her beloved brother, who has sent her to the castle of Angus for a priceless artifact. She is the youngest daughter of the vicar. She strong willed and has a fiery temper.Angus locks her and her maid away in the turret room of his castle, while he awaits a friend's confirmation she is who is says she is.During this time tempers fly, sparks of passion also flies between the two of them. Angus has never meet anyone quiet like Mary for she is beautiful, smart, intelligent and love artifacts too. She has been waiting for adventure to find her and finally it has in the ill mattered, suspicious, dark moods of Angus. Together they learn the meeting of trust and love. I would recommend this book especially if you enjoy Scotland, mystery, and the awakening of one man's forgotten heart. I can hardly wait for the next installment to see what happens to the rest of the story....This book was received for review from the publisher and details can be found at Simon and Schuster and My Book Addiction and More.
August 10, 2019
This was a perfectly average historical romance. I’m starting to think that’s just how I’m going to fell about all Karen Hawkins’ books. I also feel like I have read this exact book before (but I know I havent’).
I like a scarred character, so I was predisposed to like this hero. He’s scholarly which I did like reading about. Mary, the heroine, is too. However, neither felt as developed as they could have been.
Speaking of development, the romance wasn’t that great. Ok. that my be a little extreme. Angus and Mary have chemistry and I do buy them as a couple. But the interactions weren’t as well-developed as they could’ve been. It was like they moved throughout the physical aspects of their relationship without the proper emotions. I think I just wanted them to talk to each other more.
The overall story line about the Hurst amulet and family is compelling. I want to know where that story will go and how it will be resolved. But if all the books will be 3-star reads, I’m not sure it’s worth my time. We’ll see at some point.
Originally posted: https://www.daydreamingthroughbooks.c...
I like a scarred character, so I was predisposed to like this hero. He’s scholarly which I did like reading about. Mary, the heroine, is too. However, neither felt as developed as they could have been.
Speaking of development, the romance wasn’t that great. Ok. that my be a little extreme. Angus and Mary have chemistry and I do buy them as a couple. But the interactions weren’t as well-developed as they could’ve been. It was like they moved throughout the physical aspects of their relationship without the proper emotions. I think I just wanted them to talk to each other more.
The overall story line about the Hurst amulet and family is compelling. I want to know where that story will go and how it will be resolved. But if all the books will be 3-star reads, I’m not sure it’s worth my time. We’ll see at some point.
Originally posted: https://www.daydreamingthroughbooks.c...
December 7, 2010
A refreshing, funny and exciting historical romance that has sweet romance, betrayal, love and mystery. If you love historical romances this one has a lot of details that help you transfer yourself back in time and relate to the story.
A heroine that is not afraid to embark in adventures, fiercely loyal to her family and strong willed meets a hero scarred by a fire where he lost his wife, he has trust issues and a very bad temper but very loyal to his friends and they share a love for antique artifacts. They discover together passion, trust and love.
I'll love to continue reading this series and can't wait to read the next book.
review link: http://www.onceuponatwilight.com/2010...
A heroine that is not afraid to embark in adventures, fiercely loyal to her family and strong willed meets a hero scarred by a fire where he lost his wife, he has trust issues and a very bad temper but very loyal to his friends and they share a love for antique artifacts. They discover together passion, trust and love.
I'll love to continue reading this series and can't wait to read the next book.
review link: http://www.onceuponatwilight.com/2010...
October 19, 2012
I am a fan of Karen Hawkins HR books - they are light and fun. This is the start to a new series and it is a spinoff from another series that I have read. This story is no exception. I loved the story of Mary Hurst, stay at home spinster sister who yearns for adventure. She is seriously spunky. And the brooding Earl of Erroll, Angus is wonderful as his world is turned upside down by this very appealing heroine. Great, witty fun with a slight mystery makes this a wonderful read. My only complaint is that their only sex scene is too short. I would've liked more!
November 6, 2011
Good story, which begins with Mary looking for a box which her borther needs to get fre. This box is in possession of an Earl, who she goes to see. Not knowing who she is, and not sure about her story, the mysterious Earl, Angus, keeps her prisoned while her tries to prove her story. They find themselves interested in each other, while Angus fights the attraction, still living in the past when a terrible fire took his wife's life and scarred him. Good read, and recommended.
December 11, 2012
Although this book had dialogue issues, I still enjoyed it. I plan on purchasing book 2 in the series.
December 22, 2012
The beginning of this book is kind of shaky. However, once you get past the first chapter, the story and characters are wildly entertaining.
July 27, 2018
Bookworm meets scarred Earl. Take a kidnapped Egyptologist, partially burned castle, a mysterious amulet and a few heady embraces and you’ve got a fun read with a perfectly wonderful happy ending.
July 2, 2022
Copyright 2010. This is first in the series, but there's a tie in with her McClean series. Mary is the sister of the twins, who were out to trap Scottish men into marriage.
Why did I keep buying KH's books? For one thing, she has a great synopsis writer. I would read the back of the book & think "This sounds really good!" Unfortunately, I kept thinking this through 10 books. My bad.
For another thing & this is really superficial. I love her covers. The guy on the front of this one is HOT!
He also doesn't have any burn scars on his face & neck.
So, this is set in Regency times. If you are a stickler for accuracy, you'll hate this book. Mary doesn't act like a woman in the early 1800s, let alone a vicar's daughter. The plot is dumb & drags on & on. The ending is obvious & she wraps it up rather abruptly. The heroine is somewhat intelligent throughout, but the author makes her TSTL in the last 3 chapters.
One plot trope that's so overdone is the "let's get you out of those wet clothes". The temperature is below freezing. You're wet & in a drafty, falling down crofter's hut. But by all means, let's get naked & do it.
I recommend Georgette Heyer's "Arabella" if you like "vicar's daughter & man about town" romance. She knew how to do it right!
Why did I keep buying KH's books? For one thing, she has a great synopsis writer. I would read the back of the book & think "This sounds really good!" Unfortunately, I kept thinking this through 10 books. My bad.
For another thing & this is really superficial. I love her covers. The guy on the front of this one is HOT!
He also doesn't have any burn scars on his face & neck.
So, this is set in Regency times. If you are a stickler for accuracy, you'll hate this book. Mary doesn't act like a woman in the early 1800s, let alone a vicar's daughter. The plot is dumb & drags on & on. The ending is obvious & she wraps it up rather abruptly. The heroine is somewhat intelligent throughout, but the author makes her TSTL in the last 3 chapters.
One plot trope that's so overdone is the "let's get you out of those wet clothes". The temperature is below freezing. You're wet & in a drafty, falling down crofter's hut. But by all means, let's get naked & do it.
I recommend Georgette Heyer's "Arabella" if you like "vicar's daughter & man about town" romance. She knew how to do it right!
April 25, 2020
Loved it!
January 18, 2024
Cute read. 3.5 stars (zero points for the cover- that does not look like a hunky Angus!)
September 12, 2016
"Face your enemy and do not flinch."
Plot:
Mary needs the Onyx box to free her brother Michael but Angus doesn't believe she is who she claims. In the midst of proving the truth will they find a HEA?
Comments:
- Historic (1822) romance set in Scotland.
- 4626 kindle locations, 335 pages
- m/f - once, towards the end. Spicy.
- Angus was scarred in a fire, in which his wife died. The scarring helps define who he is now.
- Book 1 of the Hurst Amulet series. There is an over-riding plot to the four books. While "One Night in Scotland" would stand alone, it does strongly imply "series" that you'll want to keep following.
- There is also a prequel to both Hurst Amulet series and MacLean series, Much Ado About Marriage.
- There are references to Mary's twin sisters who married brothers from Clan MacLean. Their stories are told in Books 4 and 5 of the MacLean Curse series - Sleepless in Scotland and The Laird Who Loved Me.
- Includes an excerpt from Book 2 Scandal in Scotland.
Opinion:
I really loved this book. It's a nice light romance but the story is strong enough to hold it together and the characters make me smile. I thoroughly enjoyed it and happily recommend it.
The Hurst Amulet Series:
Book 1 One Night in Scotland - Mary Hurst and Angus, Earl of Erroll.
Book 2 Scandal in Scotland - William Hurst and Marcail Beauchamp
Book 3 A Most Dangerous Profession - Robert Hurst and Moira MacAllister
Book 4 The Taming of a Scottish Princess - Michael Hurst and Miss Jane Smythe-Haughton
-CR-
Plot:
Mary needs the Onyx box to free her brother Michael but Angus doesn't believe she is who she claims. In the midst of proving the truth will they find a HEA?
Comments:
- Historic (1822) romance set in Scotland.
- 4626 kindle locations, 335 pages
- m/f - once, towards the end. Spicy.
- Angus was scarred in a fire, in which his wife died. The scarring helps define who he is now.
- Book 1 of the Hurst Amulet series. There is an over-riding plot to the four books. While "One Night in Scotland" would stand alone, it does strongly imply "series" that you'll want to keep following.
- There is also a prequel to both Hurst Amulet series and MacLean series, Much Ado About Marriage.
- There are references to Mary's twin sisters who married brothers from Clan MacLean. Their stories are told in Books 4 and 5 of the MacLean Curse series - Sleepless in Scotland and The Laird Who Loved Me.
- Includes an excerpt from Book 2 Scandal in Scotland.
Opinion:
I really loved this book. It's a nice light romance but the story is strong enough to hold it together and the characters make me smile. I thoroughly enjoyed it and happily recommend it.
The Hurst Amulet Series:
Book 1 One Night in Scotland - Mary Hurst and Angus, Earl of Erroll.
Book 2 Scandal in Scotland - William Hurst and Marcail Beauchamp
Book 3 A Most Dangerous Profession - Robert Hurst and Moira MacAllister
Book 4 The Taming of a Scottish Princess - Michael Hurst and Miss Jane Smythe-Haughton
-CR-
December 18, 2010
This was good but not as good as some of the others by this author. The basic premise for the romance part is the classic Beauty\ Beast. The Beauty of course sees herself as somewhat of an Ugly Duckling and the Beast believes that he's unlovable and makes sure of it. Angus (the Hero) is a colleague of Michael Hurst (Mary, the Heroine's brother) but Michael has never mentioned his sister or any other family members to Angus. He did however send a letter to Angus telling him not to trust anyone who comes requesting the Onyx Box on his behalf. Someone takes Michael captive and will release (in this book we don't find out who the captive is) him in exchange for the box. Michael sends a letter to Mary and asks her to get the box from Angus. Angus has the letter telling him don't trust anybody, Mary has the letter saying get the box both from Michael but not knowing of her existence and due to the fact that Michael takes after their father and she her mother causing there to be little or no resemblance Angus locks her in the Turret until he can prove if she's telling the truth or not. A sort of comedy of errors occurs when Mary begins doing things to get Angus to release her. The entire book was a page turner because I couldn't wait to see what she would try next and how he would react. The book of course ends with an HEA.
What I didn't like was it doesn't explain well the actions of Nathan (Angus' cousin)who apparently knew Angus' first wife before Angus (Keira died in a fire) and it sounded like he may have loved her but she married Angus who held a title and was better looking (he was disfigured in the fire). When Angus tries to move on Nathan is against it and I got the impression that it was more him then Angus that turned the entire home into a Memorial to Keira. The book doesn't explain why Nathan has done this and why he won't allow Angus to move on with his life and find love again when he decides it might be possible for him to do so. I found this annoying, like the book could have used another chapter and\or an Epilogue. Despite my objections I can't wait to read the next book in the series. Mary succeeds in getting the box to William (another brother who is a Sea Captain who can sail to Egypt where Michael is being held captive and deliver the box) at the end of this book and the next book is William's story.
What I didn't like was it doesn't explain well the actions of Nathan (Angus' cousin)who apparently knew Angus' first wife before Angus (Keira died in a fire) and it sounded like he may have loved her but she married Angus who held a title and was better looking (he was disfigured in the fire). When Angus tries to move on Nathan is against it and I got the impression that it was more him then Angus that turned the entire home into a Memorial to Keira. The book doesn't explain why Nathan has done this and why he won't allow Angus to move on with his life and find love again when he decides it might be possible for him to do so. I found this annoying, like the book could have used another chapter and\or an Epilogue. Despite my objections I can't wait to read the next book in the series. Mary succeeds in getting the box to William (another brother who is a Sea Captain who can sail to Egypt where Michael is being held captive and deliver the box) at the end of this book and the next book is William's story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2015
I’ve really been making an effort to read new-to-me historical romance authors, and one such author is Karen Hawkins. I decided to give One Night in Scotland a try because it’s set in Scotland, and it has a Beauty & the Beast feel. While One Night in Scotland was enjoyable, I felt like something was missing for me to truly love this one.
One Night in Scotland starts off with Mary and her maid nearly at The Earl of Erroll’s Scottish holding. Mary is looking for a box that her brother needs desperately. But The Earl, Angus, doesn’t trust Mary, thinking that she wants to steal this box for herself. The set up is a little silly, I will admit, but I was willing to give it a go.
Mary is quite determined, and has always wanted to have her own adventures, but has never been able to. While she is desperately worried about her brother, she is also embracing this opportunity ti have a but of adventure. I like that Mary isn’t a pushover, and that she is clever, but I also found her to be annoying at times. And her schemes to get Angus’s attention really just seemed silly at times.
Angus was not my favorite. He’s really gruff, which I often really like in a hero, but his gruffness sometimes came off as jerk-y. Yes, sometimes Angus just seemed like a jerk. I couldn’t understand his reasoning on keeping Mary a prisoner there until he could prove her identity. I kept thinking there had to be a better solution.
I also couldn’t really understand Mary and Angus’s attraction to each other. I mean, I guess I wanted them to be together, but that’s just because I like romance and always want the hero and heroine to be together. There were times when I could tell that Mary and Angus belonged together, like their shared love of antiquities, but most of the time I didn’t really feel much of a connection.
I did really like this old castle as the setting, though. And One Night in Scotland definitely has a fun Beauty and the Beast feel which I loved. So while One Night in Scotland is not a favorite of mine, I did enjoy it, and I want to read a few more Hawkins’ books to get a feel for her writing style.
One Night in Scotland starts off with Mary and her maid nearly at The Earl of Erroll’s Scottish holding. Mary is looking for a box that her brother needs desperately. But The Earl, Angus, doesn’t trust Mary, thinking that she wants to steal this box for herself. The set up is a little silly, I will admit, but I was willing to give it a go.
Mary is quite determined, and has always wanted to have her own adventures, but has never been able to. While she is desperately worried about her brother, she is also embracing this opportunity ti have a but of adventure. I like that Mary isn’t a pushover, and that she is clever, but I also found her to be annoying at times. And her schemes to get Angus’s attention really just seemed silly at times.
Angus was not my favorite. He’s really gruff, which I often really like in a hero, but his gruffness sometimes came off as jerk-y. Yes, sometimes Angus just seemed like a jerk. I couldn’t understand his reasoning on keeping Mary a prisoner there until he could prove her identity. I kept thinking there had to be a better solution.
I also couldn’t really understand Mary and Angus’s attraction to each other. I mean, I guess I wanted them to be together, but that’s just because I like romance and always want the hero and heroine to be together. There were times when I could tell that Mary and Angus belonged together, like their shared love of antiquities, but most of the time I didn’t really feel much of a connection.
I did really like this old castle as the setting, though. And One Night in Scotland definitely has a fun Beauty and the Beast feel which I loved. So while One Night in Scotland is not a favorite of mine, I did enjoy it, and I want to read a few more Hawkins’ books to get a feel for her writing style.
November 24, 2010
This book is part of the Hurst Amulet series. Even though the above suggests that it is the first book, I believe that the first book in the series is Much Ado About Marriage. It does introduce the Hurst Amulet first. I haven't read that one, so this series may be an offshoot of that book. I may have to pick it up to find out. ;)
Hmm, so I read the synopsis... scarred, dark Earl, foreboding personality hiding his past. A huge castle with an educated woman who will not bend to his will. To me this sounded a bit like Jane Eyre, so I HAD to read it. However, that is really where the similarities end. It really does not resemble that story at all. It's not necessarily a bad thing as this was a story in it's own right. In fact, the majority of the book was about Angus and Mary trying to outdo each other. This might have been frustrating as it seemed that the box itself held onto a mystery that begged to be solved. However, I actually got caught up in the relationship the two were trying to build together. It really was their story and the box will just have to wait for the next in the series.
My biggest complaint about this book was the sexy time. I can suspend belief to say... eh... okay, that COULD be comfortable... but not this time. There is NO way you can convince me that it would have been that romantic. Can't tell you more or I'll spoil a big part of the book. The fact that I told you they got together isn't really a spoiler since I believe it was obvious that they would have gotten together eventually even from the book's blurb. ;)
I give this book 3 1/2 stars. It was a fun read when you want something light. I loved that the fact the hero of the story was scarred and not perfect. I always love a story like that. I also liked that the heroine learned to be more of herself in the end. I recommend it to those that enjoy highland romances.
Hmm, so I read the synopsis... scarred, dark Earl, foreboding personality hiding his past. A huge castle with an educated woman who will not bend to his will. To me this sounded a bit like Jane Eyre, so I HAD to read it. However, that is really where the similarities end. It really does not resemble that story at all. It's not necessarily a bad thing as this was a story in it's own right. In fact, the majority of the book was about Angus and Mary trying to outdo each other. This might have been frustrating as it seemed that the box itself held onto a mystery that begged to be solved. However, I actually got caught up in the relationship the two were trying to build together. It really was their story and the box will just have to wait for the next in the series.
My biggest complaint about this book was the sexy time. I can suspend belief to say... eh... okay, that COULD be comfortable... but not this time. There is NO way you can convince me that it would have been that romantic. Can't tell you more or I'll spoil a big part of the book. The fact that I told you they got together isn't really a spoiler since I believe it was obvious that they would have gotten together eventually even from the book's blurb. ;)
I give this book 3 1/2 stars. It was a fun read when you want something light. I loved that the fact the hero of the story was scarred and not perfect. I always love a story like that. I also liked that the heroine learned to be more of herself in the end. I recommend it to those that enjoy highland romances.
June 28, 2012
Originally posted at Breath of Life Reviews
The first book in what appears to be a romance series mixed with action, mystery and suspense, One Night in Scotland delivers all that is promised in the blurb and more.
Beginning with a minor deception by the Earl of Erroll, the book doesn't waste time getting started with the mystery and suspense. What I didn't expect though, was so much... Humor. Mary is a lovely, strong female character and I loved her so much! It really is hard for me to find historical romance novels that have really strong female characters in them. Mary Hurst my be smaller and physically weaker than the Earl but she's definitely not going to let that stop her from letting her displeasure known. She's smart and brave which enable her to come up with ideas to make sure the Earl regrets locking her away, she also provided most of the humor in the book as well. It's been a long time since I tried a new author and came away loving the female character.
Angus, the Earl is a dark forbidding character with a tragic past, a perfect hero for a story that boasts of mystery and suspense. Naturally wary, distrustful, stubborn and used to being obeyed, he got a very rude (and funny) wake up call from Mary.
The chemistry between Angus and Mary is really great as well and leads to some really passionate moments between the two that had me say "Whoa that was hot!" The buildup with Angus and Mary was intense but not rushed which can be a problem with a lot of the newer authors these days. Pacing is important, the sexual tension is important people! Not too fast and not too slow, balance is great and makes a romance novel more than just hot sex ;)
The first book in what appears to be a romance series mixed with action, mystery and suspense, One Night in Scotland delivers all that is promised in the blurb and more.
Beginning with a minor deception by the Earl of Erroll, the book doesn't waste time getting started with the mystery and suspense. What I didn't expect though, was so much... Humor. Mary is a lovely, strong female character and I loved her so much! It really is hard for me to find historical romance novels that have really strong female characters in them. Mary Hurst my be smaller and physically weaker than the Earl but she's definitely not going to let that stop her from letting her displeasure known. She's smart and brave which enable her to come up with ideas to make sure the Earl regrets locking her away, she also provided most of the humor in the book as well. It's been a long time since I tried a new author and came away loving the female character.
Angus, the Earl is a dark forbidding character with a tragic past, a perfect hero for a story that boasts of mystery and suspense. Naturally wary, distrustful, stubborn and used to being obeyed, he got a very rude (and funny) wake up call from Mary.
The chemistry between Angus and Mary is really great as well and leads to some really passionate moments between the two that had me say "Whoa that was hot!" The buildup with Angus and Mary was intense but not rushed which can be a problem with a lot of the newer authors these days. Pacing is important, the sexual tension is important people! Not too fast and not too slow, balance is great and makes a romance novel more than just hot sex ;)
November 24, 2010
When I read and reviewed Karen Hawkins' Much Ado About Marriage earlier this year, I knew I'd found an author who I'd be reading a lot more of. She has continued to entertain with this latest offering, the first in the new series about the mystery of the Hurst Amulet.
One Night in Scotland is one of those reads that I stopped everything else I was doing to complete. I was hooked from the very start with the humor and adventure that was jumping off the first few pages. I love it when a book pulls me in immediately and doesn't let go, even when it's over (although it's not really over when there's an exciting new book in the works...anticipation...is making me wait...)
Mary Hurst is an unusual woman of her time as she is extremely well-read and longs for adventure and travel. She lives vicariously (in a vicarage...) following the expeditions of her brother, an Egyptologist. That is until her brother is in danger and Mary is forced to go out on an adventure of her own to try to save him. She's accompanied by a very colorful and mostly inappropriate maid who is good for several laughs.
Angus Hay is a scarred man, both literally and figuratively. He is a reclusive Earl who is also an esteemed expert on antiquities, including those of Egypt. He doesn't trust Mary, thinking that she is an impostor and a thief. He decides to lock her up in his castle until he can decide what to do with her. What follows is plenty of laughs and lots of intrigue.
I highly recommend this to lovers of romantic fiction, mystery and fun adventure.
One Night in Scotland is one of those reads that I stopped everything else I was doing to complete. I was hooked from the very start with the humor and adventure that was jumping off the first few pages. I love it when a book pulls me in immediately and doesn't let go, even when it's over (although it's not really over when there's an exciting new book in the works...anticipation...is making me wait...)
Mary Hurst is an unusual woman of her time as she is extremely well-read and longs for adventure and travel. She lives vicariously (in a vicarage...) following the expeditions of her brother, an Egyptologist. That is until her brother is in danger and Mary is forced to go out on an adventure of her own to try to save him. She's accompanied by a very colorful and mostly inappropriate maid who is good for several laughs.
Angus Hay is a scarred man, both literally and figuratively. He is a reclusive Earl who is also an esteemed expert on antiquities, including those of Egypt. He doesn't trust Mary, thinking that she is an impostor and a thief. He decides to lock her up in his castle until he can decide what to do with her. What follows is plenty of laughs and lots of intrigue.
I highly recommend this to lovers of romantic fiction, mystery and fun adventure.
December 6, 2010
Mary's brother, an adventurer and Egyptologist, is being held captive in Egypt until he returns an artifact he bought and sent to a colleague in Scotland. Mary sets out to retrieve the object to save her brother, but the Earl of Erroll (the colleague who possesses the artifact), does not trust her and is unwilling to just give her the artifact until he has proof that she is who she says she is.
My favorite character by far is Mary. She has a lot of spunk and maintains cool and collected at times when many people would break down. Refusing to be cowed by a domineering man, she stood her ground and I can definitely admire that in this character.
I really enjoyed the plot from start to finish. It felt just a little like Beauty and the Beast to be honest with you. However, the one love scene was extremely anti-climactic and the ending felt a bit rushed. I understand this is the beginning of the series so not every question gets answered, but I hope that we get to read more about the earl and Mary because the story ended a little abruptly and I want to know how things end up for them. I would also love to learn more about the earl's past, specifically about the fire and his wife. I feel like maybe there was foul play or something.
This is a series I will continue to read. Also, apparently some characters from this series were also in some of the books from the Maclean Curse series so you might want to check that out as well...I know I will.
My favorite character by far is Mary. She has a lot of spunk and maintains cool and collected at times when many people would break down. Refusing to be cowed by a domineering man, she stood her ground and I can definitely admire that in this character.
I really enjoyed the plot from start to finish. It felt just a little like Beauty and the Beast to be honest with you. However, the one love scene was extremely anti-climactic and the ending felt a bit rushed. I understand this is the beginning of the series so not every question gets answered, but I hope that we get to read more about the earl and Mary because the story ended a little abruptly and I want to know how things end up for them. I would also love to learn more about the earl's past, specifically about the fire and his wife. I feel like maybe there was foul play or something.
This is a series I will continue to read. Also, apparently some characters from this series were also in some of the books from the Maclean Curse series so you might want to check that out as well...I know I will.
November 24, 2010
Come on, tell me truly, what women can resist a sexy, dark, slightly roguish Scottish lord, expect perhaps if her were competing against a sexy, dark, slightly roguish Scottish lord who is also a werewolf...those are the standards...Karen Hawkins meets and exceeds. I love the wittiness of the characters, the strength of the heroine, the magnetism between them and the obstacles they both have to overcome to be together. I am well aware I described a romantic novel period but it is all about style and Karen Hawkins has it in spades.
I enjoyed the scene where he throws the chairs out the windows the most in the entire book. I just thought it was hilarious and showed the true breadth of Angus. I also think this scene shows the true nature of Mary as well, they are both so perfectly suited from the beginning...and when the kiss, sparks fly.
I enjoyed the plot a lot, it was something different and fresh in my opinion and I love when I find a new historical romance series I can start from the beginning and enjoy until the author completes it. I love her other work and I am intrigued and waiting in anticipation for the next book.
November 23, 2010
This is one of the best romance novels I have read in awhile. This is a sit down in one reading type of book. I couldn't put this down, I almost wanted to put everything in my life on hold just to finish this one. So, yes I loved it! The chemistry between these two characters, Mary and Angus, jumps off the pages. Mary was a prisoner in Angus's house until he could prove who she was. She did not make his life easy for him at all. She was so full of spunk that not even Angus fully knew how to handle her and the passion she ignited in him. As a reader you can't wait for the two to be in the same room again. Angus is just as stubborn as Mary. At one point he gets so fed up with her and her ruckus she is making in his house, he throws all the furniture out the window from her bedroom.
If your looking for a great romance, and it has been awhile since you have had one. Run to your local book store and find this one. You will not be disappointed. Then come back here and let me know what you thought of it.
If your looking for a great romance, and it has been awhile since you have had one. Run to your local book store and find this one. You will not be disappointed. Then come back here and let me know what you thought of it.
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